Review article
Josip Stadler - a man of prayer and boundless trust in God
Finka Tomas
; Catholic Faculty of Theology in Đakovo - University of J. J. Strossmayer in Osijek, Croatia
Abstract
There is a wealth of historical source material about Joseph Stadler, the first Archbishop of Vrhbosna, as well as expert literature, which allows a thorough study of his
character.
He was in particular a man of prayer, which preceded all his tasks and from which
he drew strength for his many activities and pursuits. Prayer strengthened his confidence
in the God to whom he had entrusted himself as a child, accompanying him in the successes and the uncertainties and failures of daily efforts.
Already as a child, Stadler was faced with difficult circumstances of life – left without both parents. This cross shaped young Joseph into a strong advocate with full compassion for all in need without distinction, especially for the poor and the abandoned.
Education, with the help of kind people, especially study in Rome, paved the way for
Joseph’s spiritual and intellectual maturation, as he obtained a doctorate in philosophy
and theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University.
In the Jesuit college, the Germanicum, he adopted sound foundations of spirituality,
which would be crucial in shaping his spiritual and intellectual identity. Led by renowned professors and priests, he gained there the experience of fraternal fellowship, trusting
prayer, and solid study. He was one of the best students.
Returning to his homeland as a priest, he primarily served as an educator and professor, investing in both areas all the strength of his rich talent. He tried most of all to
inspire young people to a thorough and solid acquisition of knowledge in all matters in
order to be leaders of sound thinking and responsibility for the good of the Church and
their homeland.
His character came to the fore especially during his service as the Archbishop of
Vrhbosna, where, after many centuries, he restored the hierarchical structure of the
Archdiocese based in Sarajevo. Endowed with nobility of heart and selflessness, he cared
passionately about the formation of the clergy and the construction of the necessary facilities for the life of the Archdiocese. In particular, he was an advocate of spiritual renewal, as evidenced by the 85 epistles written to the people and clergy, of whom he was a
father and teacher. It was during this period that the connection he made between prayer
and active ministry shone forth. He was conspicuous in his prayerfulness, and he worked
tirelessly, building, cultivating, encouraging, taking care especially of the poor. For that
purpose, he founded a Religious Congregation which continued his conception and inspiration. His works are the fruit of Providence, which he trusted infinitely and relied on
completely.
Keywords
prayer; God's guidance; zealous shepherd, the poor.
Hrčak ID:
260067
URI
Publication date:
17.5.2020.
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