Bosnia’s Interreligious Council condemns vandalism in Medjugorje

In its official statement, the council emphasized that the desecration of religious symbols and places of prayer deeply offends the feelings of Catholic believers while undermining peace, mutual respect, and human dignity across the country. The organization stressed that holy sites must remain protected regardless of religious affiliation.

Expressing support for the dignified response of the Medjugorje Parish Office, which urged believers to counter the wrongdoing with prayer, fasting, and forgiveness, the council noted that forgiveness does not eliminate the need for accountability or the legal obligation of competent institutions to thoroughly investigate the incident.

The Interreligious Council urged police and judicial authorities to promptly determine the circumstances and motives behind the events, identify the perpetrators, and prosecute them under the law. Furthermore, the public was called upon to avoid speculation, unverified accusations, and hate speech that could trigger further divisions.

Concluding the statement, the council expressed solidarity with the parish community and affected believers, advocating for a united stance against the desecration of holy sites alongside a reinforced commitment to peace and mutual respect.