Devotion to the First Blessed Slovak Woman
The village of Krivá in the Orava region is the birthplace of Sister Zdenka Schelingová. This nun from the Congregation of the Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross became the very first beatified Slovak woman. Since December 4, 2004, the local Parish Church of Saint Joseph has been enriched by her precious reliquary and a statue, which were solemnly unveiled here. This event permanently transformed the parish into a significant and sought-after pilgrimage site.
Pilgrimages and the Preservation of a Spiritual Legacy
Every year in Krivá, in the days leading up to July 30—the official liturgical feast of Blessed Zdenka—a pilgrimage takes place, accompanied by several days of spiritual preparation. Crowds of the faithful from the wider area regularly participate in these celebrations to honor her witness of unwavering faith. The living devotion to this exceptional native is present in the village even beyond the walls of the church. Right in front of the former home of the Scheling family, a dignified memorial site featuring a commemorative plaque has stood since 2010, permanently reminding both the faithful and visitors of her heroic life.
