The Slovenian people are not strangers to tumultuous change. Residents of Maribor watched Hitler speak in their main square during World War II, and they labored long hours in factories during their time as Yugoslavia’s second most industrial city. Today, older residents struggle to adjust to capitalism, as tourists from around the world lounge in outdoor cafes. But through all the turbulence, Mariboreans have clung to two things: religion and national pride.
A son of Maribor and a national hero, Anton Slomšek (Slohm-shek, 1800-62), speaks to both of these values. Catholics, who make up 70% of Maribor’s current population, memorialized this first Slovenian bishop in Slomšek Square, the religious center of Maribor. In 1999, Pope John Paul II broke with tradition and canonized him not in Rome, but in his hometown—Maribor.
However, St. Slomšek’s influence stretches far beyond church walls. He opened the first Slovenian-language school, produced textbooks, and strengthened national Slovenian education. In addition, he co-founded The Hermagoras Society, the oldest Slovene publishing house.
Pause and reflect on this man’s memorial in Slomšek Square. By tirelessly advocating for his country and his faith, he has anchored Slovenians and helped them flourish, despite the unstable political landscape of the last centuries.