The Gorizia-based publishing house Mohorjeva družba has released a new book by author Tomaž Simčič titled 250 let slovenske molitve v zavetju padovanskega priprošnjika (250 Years of Slovenian Prayer in the Shelter of the Paduan Intercessor). The work examines the historical presence and development of the Slovenian community within the parish of Saint Anthony the New in Trieste.
In the book’s introduction, Sergij Pahor notes that the research provides a thorough examination of the parish, which is the largest in the Trieste diocese. The study highlights that the Slovenian presence in the parish dates back to its establishment in 1777. Simčič suggests that the parish served as a significant gathering place for Slovenian residents, including farmers and gardeners from the city’s outskirts, from its inception.
The book utilizes archival documents, citations, and historical notes to trace the evolution of the Slovenian community alongside the rapid growth of Trieste in the 19th century. Simčič explores the challenges faced by the community, including the impact of secularization and the shifting social landscape of the city. The author also reflects on the current state of the parish, expressing concern regarding the future of the Slovenian community in the face of declining attendance and broader societal changes.
Simčič states that his research was motivated by a desire to understand the future of the community by analyzing the signs of the times. He describes the book as a historical overview rather than a formal scientific monograph, serving as a tribute to the generations of Slovenians who have maintained their language and religious practices in the church for two and a half centuries. The author identifies this group as the oldest continuously operating Slovenian organization in the center of Trieste.
The publication addresses a gap in existing historical literature, as previous studies on the parish, including those by Giuseppe Cuscit and Gaetano Tumi, have largely overlooked the Slovenian component. Simčič’s work aims to preserve the history of this community and provide a foundation for further discussion on the role of Christian values and the future of such congregations in the region.
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