The Death of Father Milenko Dragićević and Marko Perković Thompson’s Concert: Spiritual Loss and Political Chaos
On Saturday, Father Milenko Dragićević, the long-time parish priest of Velika Hoča, passed away after a serious illness at the age of 69. He was a beloved spiritual leader, not only to the faithful in Hoča, where he spent most of his priestly service, but also to people from other parts of Kosovo. The abbot of the Visoki Dečani monastery, Sava Janjić, announced the sad news on social media. Father Milenko was known for his wit and directness in dealing with people. He served in several places, including Zočište, Retimlje, and Opteruša, before settling in Velika Hoča.
While the region mourns the loss of one of its spiritual pillars, a political storm is brewing in Zagreb. Marko Perković Thompson’s concert, reportedly selling around half a million tickets, is said to be the largest concert in the history of independent Croatia.
Ustaša Songs and Political Messages
During the concert, fans were recorded singing Ustaša songs glorifying war crimes and hatred. Songs like “Ustaška Budnica,” “Evo Jure Bobana,” and others praising Ustaša units such as the Black Legion echoed through the streets. Ivana Marković, the SDP mayor of Supetar, condemned the event, calling it a political gathering of extremism rather than just a concert. She emphasized that music should not divide people or incite hatred. Antifascism, she said, is the foundation of all freedoms and must not be auctioned off to hatred and nostalgia for evil.
A Stark Contrast: Spirituality vs. Hatred
While Velika Hoča bids farewell to Father Milenko, a symbol of peace, spirituality, and community, Zagreb’s streets echo with celebrations that many see as a return to the darkest chapters of history. This stark contrast between spiritual loss and political chaos in the region is impossible to ignore.
Why Does This Matter?
These two events highlight deep divisions in society. On one side, a man who dedicated his life to service and reconciliation; on the other, a massive event fueling old wounds and hatred. Is it really possible that in the 21st century we are still grappling with these issues? Is music truly just entertainment, or has it become a tool for politics and ideology?
What Do You Think?
Is it time to finally turn to the future, or will we remain trapped in the past? If you have a take or maybe a good joke about all this, feel free to share it — because hey, if we can’t laugh, what’s left?
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