Headlines articles

In the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue, a significant event occurred in the detention centre of Postojna (Slovenia): the opening of a 'Room of Silence'. The purpose of this room in a state institution (the police) is to make it possible for people of different religions to pray, meditate and be in silence. The project was led by Robin Schweiger SJ, JRS country director and social apostolate Assistancy coordinator for Eastern Europe. The room of silence was designed and implemented by Jesuit architect Robert Dolinar SJ.

Mrs Zdenka Cebašek-Travnik, the Human Rights Ombudsman of Slovenia, was present at the opening ceremony. In her speech, she highlighted the importance of such a place for the men and women in detention. The chief officer of the centre, Mr Jože Kone, praised the fruitful collaboration between JRS and the police authorities. Also present were the Slovenian provincial Fr. Milan Bizant SJ and representatives of the Islamic and Orthodox communities in Postojna. Robin Schweiger SJ commented: "In the presence of the lady Ombudsman we had a small religious gathering in a state institution; this is to be considered something new and historical in Slovenia."