Kovačica is the parish cemetery of Medjugorje, a few minutes' walk behind St. James Church, past the statue of the Risen Saviour. Here rests Fr. Slavko Barbarić (1946–2000), the friar who did more than anyone to shape the prayer life of the shrine.
His grave is never without flowers and candles. Pilgrims who never met him come to thank him and to ask for his prayers.
Fr. Slavko was a Franciscan with a doctorate in religious education who spoke several languages. He was finishing his studies abroad when news of the apparitions reached him. From 1982 he gave himself completely to Medjugorje and to its pilgrims.
He led the evening prayer programme, the adoration and the prayers on the hills. He began the fasting and prayer seminars and the international retreats for young people, priests and married couples, wrote books on prayer, fasting and confession that were translated into many languages, and worked with people struggling with addiction. In 1993 he founded Mother's Village for children left without parents by the war, and later St. Francis' Garden beside it.
On Friday 24 November 2000, after leading the Way of the Cross on Križevac with parishioners and pilgrims, he died near the summit, beside the last stations. The next day's message read: “I rejoice with you and I desire to tell you that your brother Slavko has been born into Heaven and intercedes for you.”
His grave is easy to find by the flowers and candles that pilgrims leave. Fr. Križan Galić, a parish priest of Medjugorje killed by the partisans, is also buried in this cemetery.
Near the top of Cross Mountain a bronze relief set in stone marks the place where he died.
His best-known work, still caring for children and families today, is a short drive or a pleasant walk from the church.
Every 24 November the parish prays the Way of the Cross on Križevac in the afternoon, followed by the Rosary and Holy Mass in the church.
Our guides live in Medjugorje and know these places and their stories by heart. Join a private orientation tour, or let us plan your whole pilgrimage.
Some photographs on this page are by Rudolf Baier. © Rudolf Baier, all rights reserved. Used on this website with the photographer's permission.
A local guide shares the story of the apparitions from the very beginning, what Our Lady teaches in her messages, and walks you through the main sites of the village.
Most popularOur most popular pilgrimage: open your heart in faith and gratitude at the shrines and churches of Medjugorje and the surrounding area.
Pray on the steps to Križevac, climb the stone path of Apparition Hill and live the daily prayer of St. James parish.
