Flares and Song: Zagreb Parishioners Give Priest an Unforgettable Farewell

Residents of the Botinec neighborhood in Zagreb gave their departing priest an extraordinary send-off, filling the street with flares and singing "A sad adio" (And now, goodbye).

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When the priest leaves the parish, Botinec gives a farewell as if he were a bishop!

The farewell for the outgoing administrator of St. Stephen the Martyr Parish was captured on video and quickly gained traction on TikTok. Many viewers expressed that the scene moved them, with comments praising the community's warmth and the priest's service.

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Bravo people, be human above all

"Bravo people, be human above all," one user wrote, while others simply commented, "Most beautiful video," "He deserved it," and "Well done."

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Most beautiful video

One commenter even wished for the new priest to receive an equally warm welcome. The change in leadership was confirmed in July when the Archdiocese of Zagreb announced new appointments. Father Krešimir Babić was relieved of his duties at St. Stephen the Martyr Parish and appointed administrator of St. John the Baptist Parish in Desinec, along with a pastoral assistant role. Father Mario Dukić will take over as the new parish priest.

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He deserved it