Joint pilgrimage of members of the Košice and Košice-Šaca institutions to Levoča Mountain

The national pilgrimage to Levoča Mountain is one of the most significant spiritual events in Slovakia every year. This year, on July 4–5, 2026, members of the Košice and Košice-Šaca institutions, along with their family members, were once again among the thousands of pilgrims who joined the Saturday program organized by the Ordinariate of the Armed Forces and Armed Corps of the Slovak Republic. The program began at 4:30 PM in the Minorite Fathers' Church with a joint prayer meeting attended by Bishop Šajgalík and members of several foreign armies. Prayers were recited in multiple languages as a symbol of unity and a common Christian mission. At the end of the meeting, the Bishop encouraged those present to attend the evening Holy Mass on Levoča Mountain.

After the prayer meeting, the participants walked together to Levoča Mountain. Upon arrival, the members had the opportunity to refresh themselves in the army tent and receive the sacrament of reconciliation. The highlight of the program was the festive Holy Mass at 7:00 PM. In his homily, the Bishop emphasized the importance of personal identity, the need to build it, and the protection of one's own thinking and life direction. He specifically pointed out the importance of preserving national and Christian values, which form a solid foundation for the life of both the individual and society as a whole. As a model of fidelity, he presented the Virgin Mary, who, through her unconditional acceptance of the Word of God, played an irreplaceable role in the history of salvation. He urged those present not to forget their Christian roots, to cultivate them, and to responsibly care for the spiritual values that grow from them.

After the conclusion of the solemn liturgy, many participants met in the army tent for an agape meal. The informal gathering created a space for mutual conversation, sharing spiritual experiences, and strengthening the community. The Bishop honored the gathering with his presence, meeting with the members and their families in a friendly atmosphere.