PARTICIPATION OF 5 YOUNG VOLUNTEERS SLOVENYA WOMEN FOR THE RESTORASYON OF ST POLYCARPE CHURCH IN IZMIR
1) Can you introduce yourself and the 4 other young women from Slovenia?
We are a group of five volunteers, aged 20-36, with most of us being university students from various fields. We are participants in the POTA program, organized by the Slovenian organization Katoliška mladina (Catholic Youth). This program offers young people the opportunity to volunteer on different projects all around the world and experience the work of the Church in missions. We are staying in Izmir for three weeks, from July 1st to July 22nd.
2) What are the objectives of your stay at Polycarpe?
Our first and most tangible objective is to support the Catholic community in Izmir by assisting with the restoration of the Church of St. Polycarpe. Through this work, we hope to foster a sense of unity and connection with the global Catholic Church, especially given the challenging environment for Christians here. Secondly, we aim to learn about the work of a priest, specifically Archbishop Martin Kmetec, and other consecrated or laypeople in the missions in Turkey. Lastly, on a more personal level, we are here to respond to God’s call to serve, to deepen our relationship with Christ and use this experience to better serve our local parishes.
3) Can you explain us your differents works for the restauration of the church ?
Most of our work took place in the church. Initially, we did some basic restoration tasks to prevent capillary moisture, which involved cleaning mortar from the walls and their lower edges. Later, we got to try real restoration work, like filling cracks in the dome’s wall paintings and using scalpels for the first time to scrape off varnish or other unwanted layers. We also cleaned sacred objects like candlesticks and tabernacles, as well as statues, making sure to use solvents without removing the paint. Additionally, each day, one of us assisted the housekeeper with various household chores.
4) What’s your opinion now after more than 2 weeks here about the life of a priest, a sister and about your experience in summer camp?
Participating in this project and gaining insight into the Catholic community here has been a significant learning experience for us. It has filled us with immense respect and gratitude for everyone involved. One of the most prominent things we’ve felt is a sense of real community—devoted and constant in their aim to live a Christ-centered life and spread the Good News. We have been met with nothing but kindness, hospitality, openness, and patience, even when we made mistakes. Despite their busy schedules, they always made sure to check up on us and ensure everyone felt accepted.
What is particularly inspiring is that even though the Christians here live as a minority in less than welcoming circumstances, they remain steadfast and hopeful in their mission. Besides the church, we got to know the Turkish culture, history, and language (we discovered just how much you can communicate using only a few words). Working on the church restoration, we also gained many new practical and unique skills. Most importantly, we got to know people whose life stories have greatly impacted us.
Article : Mirjam Smrdelj
Photos : Nathalie Ritzmann and archives of Saint Polycarpe Church Izmir
