On Sunday, July 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., Friar Mateo VUJČIĆ of the Province of St. Jerome in Croatia, celebrated his first Mass. The Mass took place at the Church of St. John the Baptist in Pula. Many priest attended this event, together with the friars of the Province, and priests and formators who guided Friar Mateo along his journey to the priesthood.
The first Mass was a solemn event in the life of Friar Mateo, but also in the life of the Parish Church of St. John the Baptist. There were many concelebrants. Also present were the Minister Provincial, Friar Miljenko HONTIĆ, men and women religious, seminarians, postulants, and altar servers. In his homily, Friar Ivan Marija LOTAR, the Pastor and Rector of the Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua in Zagreb, invited the young priest to be faithful to his vocation. He spoke about the meaning of humility and service to the Lord and to His people. “A day like this is rarely forgotten, when you, as a new, young priest, celebrate Mass among the people for the first time. This day, even if it lasts only twenty-four hours, will remain forever in your heart, dear Friar Mateo!” said Friar Ivan in his homily.
This was a very touching event for Friar Mateo’s family as well. For his parents Svjetlana and Želimir, his brother Karl, his sister Tena, and all the faithful gathered together, this first Mass was an opportunity for everyone to be strengthened in faith and spiritual communion.
“Dear family, always be there for him,” said Friar Ivan to Friar Mateo’s parents. He emphasized the importance of family in the life of every priest.
During the Mass, everyone prayed for Friar Mateo and his priestly vocation, as well as for all the faithful who will accompany him on this journey. This first Mass was not only a solemn event, but also an invitation to a deeper life of faith and service.
Friar Mateo VUJČIĆ was ordained to the priesthood by Pope Leo XIV at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican on June 27, 2025, the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Friar Mateo now begins his journey in the service of God and the community. The entire parish and his friar community continue to accompany him in prayer and hope.
Friar Zlatko VLAHEK, Provincial Secretary
