Slovaks began settling in Croatia mainly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The largest Slovak communities were established in the regions of Slavonia and Baranja; therefore, the mission's activities are focused primarily on this area, specifically in Josipovac Punitovački.
Today, the largest Slovak communities in Croatia are found in Josipovac Punitovački, Jurjevac, Jelisavac, Markovac, and Osijek.
At present, Slovaks are a recognised national minority that is fully integrated into Croatian society while continuing to preserve its cultural, linguistic, and spiritual heritage.
The project was implemented in three phases, with work commencing in 2014.
On 1 October 2016, the Slovak Pastoral Office of Blessed Zdenka Schelingová and the Mission Centre in Josipovac Punitovački were officially inaugurated. The establishment of the centre was approved by decree of the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Đakovo–Osijek.
The project was established in response to the profound assimilation of Slovaks into Croatian society and the gradual loss of their cultural and national identity. Its mission is to help individuals rediscover and restore their Slovak heritage and sense of belonging.
We offer pastoral programmes for children and young people, including the Don Bosco Oratory. For adults, we organise spiritual retreats, parish missions led by SVD missionary couples from Slovakia, and various devotional activities.
We also carry out educational activities in schools, including games, singing, and excursions conducted in the Slovak language.
As part of our social and healthcare outreach, we visit elderly and sick people in their homes, hospitals, and hospice settings, providing support even to those at the end of life.
In addition, we offer psychological support, counselling, and guidance to individuals facing various personal and life challenges.
A comprehensive annual programme of activities is prepared each year and regularly submitted to the Archdiocese of Đakovo, where the mission is officially registered within the pastoral ministry for Slovak Catholics.
Over the years, the project has received several awards and recognitions. One of its most significant humanitarian initiatives was the provision of assistance to people affected by the devastating earthquake in Petrinja.
