In the shadow of tragedy, compassion emerges as a powerful force. This story unfolds during a youth gathering—a day meant for faith, joy, and connection. Amid grief and shock because of an accident, the bonds of compassion weave a deep and interconnected fabric of shared presence, prayer, and unwavering hope.
Amid the backdrop of tragedy and loss, compassion emerged as a powerful force, binding hearts and souls together. It was meant to be a youth gathering—a meeting of young believers who sensed the presence of the Risen Lord, seeking happiness and faith. We, the SSpS Sisters from the Province of Slovakia, answered the call and embarked on a 300 km journey from our community in Ivanka pri Nitre to Spišská Kapitula beneath the Tatra Mountains—Sr. Laura Vlčáková, Sr. Prasedis Pakaeoni and Sr. Pavla Peštová.
Our purpose was clear: to grace the gathering with our missionary presence, offering encouragement, comfort, and deepened faith. The day began at 8:30am on a Saturday, with a meticulously planned and enticing program. A staggering 1,600 young souls had registered for the event. We were ready.
As we approached Spišská Kapitula by car, an unexpected sight greeted us—a rescue helicopter taking off. Curiosity turned to concern when we were diverted from our route due to an accident. We prayed for those involved. But then came the second diversion, and the words hit us like a blow: “The program is cancelled! Only adoration and Holy Mass will take place. Two girls lost their lives in the accident, and others were hospitalized.” Grief enveloped us.
Following the organizers’ instructions, we parked our car and registered for the adoration and mass. At the booth, we learned that the accident victims hailed from Stará and Nová Ľubovňa. Tears welled up within me. Silently, we joined the youth in adoration. Kneeling, they communed with God, asking the questions that echoed in their hearts: Why? Where are You? The repetition of “Jesus, I trust in You” brought solace amid shock.
Yet the pain persisted, tears flowing ceaselessly. A fleeting moment had altered lives forever. Phone calls relayed news to worried parents, and we assured our fellow Sisters of our safety. The adoration concluded with a sacramental blessing—a reassurance, a reunion, a blessing.
Next, we prepared the cathedral for holy mass. Some young attendees stepped outside for fresh air, sipping water and exchanging words. Inside, the cathedral overflowed with mutual support. Compassion etched on every face and etched in every heart—for grieving parents, sorrowful relatives, accident witnesses, the driver, and even the Bishop. The desire to help transcended performance; silent presence and prayer sufficed.
Bishop Francis, in his homily, reflected about hope to startled, fearful hearts. We resembled the apostles and the Virgin Mary in the upper room after Jesus’ death—bewildered, questioning. Yet the answer lay in the Holy Communion we received. It wasn’t merely adoration and mass; it was the profound closeness of a loving God—present, eternal.
As we exited the cathedral, singing “Mary of Protection,” Bishop Mons. Prof. ThDr. PaedDr. SSlic. František Trstenský, PhD walked nearby. We stepped forward, expressing our closeness. His words resonated: “I hasten to meet the parents of the deceased.” We conversed with the young attendees, listening to their hearts.
Spišská Kapitula buzzed with youthful, vibrant faith. From Orava, Liptov, Spiš, Košice, and beyond, volunteers from Bratislava and Nitra wove an atmosphere of unity and compassion. Amid tragedy, we discovered the sacred bond that transcends words—a shared presence, a shared prayer, and the unwavering promise that God remains with us, always.
Sr. Pavla Peštová – Province of Slovakia
In front of the Cathedral.
Scene of the accident.
Celebration of the Holy Eucharist at the Cathedral.
Informational boards.
This is what I feel.
