“Prophet of Our Time”: Josip Disarmed All Hatred with His Cross

​In the spring of 2025, Josip Jelinić, a 32-year-old physiotherapist and Catholic evangelist, embarked on a 45-day pilgrimage across Bosnia and Herzegovina, carrying an eight-kilogram crucifix and a Bosnian flag. His journey aimed to promote forgiveness, peace, and unity among the country’s diverse communities.​Dailymotion+1Log in or sign up to view+1

At the conclusion of his pilgrimage on Good Friday, Jelinić stood before the cross at Šćit and delivered a heartfelt message of reconciliation:​

“We Croats, in the name of Jesus and by the power of the Holy Spirit, forgive all Serbs and Bosniaks for any harm they have caused the Croatian people. We also ask forgiveness from all Serbs and Bosniaks for any harm we have caused them. Similarly, as Christians, we forgive all Muslims for any harm they have caused us, and we ask forgiveness from all Muslims for any harm we have caused them. We pray this through Christ our Lord. Amen.”​

Throughout his journey, Jelinić was warmly received by people of all backgrounds. He noted, “The Lord gave me strength throughout, sending me good people—Croats, Bosniaks, and Serbs—who showed they have big hearts. The people of Bosnia and Herzegovina are truly good, and I often emphasize that we must not forget this.” ​

Jelinić’s pilgrimage, often referred to as the “Cross of Forgiveness,” resonated deeply across the nation. His friend, Ivan Nižić from Ljubuški, who joined him from Uzdol, remarked, “Not only do we have hope, but hope is flourishing and very strong. This marks a significant step forward toward reconciliation, forgiveness, and a new, brighter future for all of us.”

The crucifix Jelinić carried was crafted by Robert Tomić from Posušje, who described the wood as appearing “blood-colored,” symbolizing the profound sacrifice and message of the journey. Tomić emphasized the importance of forgiveness, stating, “I know how crucial forgiveness is. I’ve hurt many people and understand what forgiveness means. Forgiveness lifted me in life.”​

Thousands gathered at Šćit to welcome Jelinić, joining him in prayer and embracing the message of unity. Among them was Ruža Grubeša, a local resident, who expressed, “I’m both sad and joyful. This means a lot to me, and I believe it’s a significant sign for all of us. May God grant peace to these lands.”

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Fra Andrija Jozić, the guardian of the Rama monastery, praised Jelinić’s efforts, calling him “a prophet of our time.” He added, “Bosnia is as it is, but he rose and fulfilled his mission. Is there anything more beautiful than ending the day knowing you’ve done something for God’s glory?”​

Jelinić’s pilgrimage, marked by challenges from harsh weather to encounters with wildlife, culminated in a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of reconciliation. He concluded, “I wish everyone a blessed Easter and thank those who embraced the Cross of Forgiveness as their own. This cross will remain in Bosnia and Herzegovina, serving as a symbol of our collective journey toward peace.”