Published: July 15, 1998
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-14.pdf
About this Issue
The fourteenth issue of Hrvatska Iskra reflects on Croatia’s ongoing journey of remembrance and renewal. It covers solemn anniversaries such as the tragedy of Vukovar and Bleiburg, celebrates Croatia’s success at the 1998 FIFA World Cup, and highlights the cultural and humanitarian work of Croatians in Canada. The issue carries an emotional balance between pride and pain, capturing a moment in history when the country stood strong, proud, and united.
Remembering Vukovar and Bleiburg
The issue opens with a moving reflection by Valentina Krčmar on the significance of Vukovar and Bleiburg as twin symbols of Croatia’s suffering and survival. She writes that both names remind Croatians not of defeat but of endurance and moral strength.
Krčmar emphasizes that freedom must be protected not only through political means but through the preservation of truth and compassion. She calls upon readers to pass these lessons on to their children so that the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten.
Croatia’s World Cup Triumph
A joyful section celebrates the Croatian national football team’s success at the 1998 World Cup in France, where Croatia earned an astonishing third-place finish in its first-ever appearance.
Krčmar describes the victory as a defining cultural moment that united Croatians everywhere, from Zagreb to Toronto. The team’s courage, discipline, and pride are portrayed as symbols of the same spirit that built the nation. She highlights the team’s leader Davor Šuker, who won the Golden Boot, and praises the players for showing the world Croatia’s strength, resilience, and joy.
Humanitarian and Community Efforts
Bedem Ljubavi (Mothers for Peace) reports on continued fundraising for families affected by the war and for the rebuilding of Vukovar. A recent event raised funds through a charity luncheon and auction, with all proceeds directed to humanitarian programs in Croatia.
Croatian Community Services announces new educational programs and outreach efforts for recent immigrants, focusing on job readiness, cultural orientation, and language support.
The newsletter also shares gratitude from organizations in Croatia that have benefited from Canadian-Croatian donations, particularly those rebuilding schools, libraries, and hospitals.
Church and Faith
Faith remains a guiding theme throughout the issue. The editorial team includes reflections from priests who discuss the meaning of gratitude, forgiveness, and perseverance. One sermon connects the biblical parable of the prodigal son to Croatia’s own return from exile and despair, describing national reconciliation as an act of faith as much as politics.
Readers are encouraged to see gratitude as a form of prayer and to continue living by Christian values that shaped Croatia’s rebirth.
News from the Homeland
The news section summarizes national developments from June and early July 1998.
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Pope John Paul II officially confirms his upcoming visit to Croatia in October.
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Reconstruction of Vukovar continues, with the first public library reopening after years of restoration.
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The Croatian Parliament approves a resolution supporting the protection of minority rights, reinforcing Croatia’s commitment to democratic values.
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Diplomatic relations strengthen between Croatia and Canada, marked by new cultural exchange initiatives.
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Environmental projects are launched to clean up war-affected regions and promote sustainable development.
Cultural Heritage and Reflection
A cultural article pays tribute to Nikola Šubić Zrinski, the 16th-century hero who defended Siget against the Ottoman Empire. His story is presented as a symbol of bravery and loyalty that continues to inspire Croatians today.
The issue also features poetry by members of the Croatian-Canadian community, exploring themes of memory, identity, and love for the homeland. One poem compares the Adriatic Sea to a mother’s embrace, representing the eternal pull of home.
Closing Reflections
In her final note, Krčmar expresses gratitude to the readers and contributors who keep Hrvatska Iskra alive. She writes that every issue is a piece of Croatian history preserved for future generations.
She ends with a heartfelt reminder: “Our strength lies not in forgetting, but in remembering with love.”
