Mission and Activities of the Brotherhood
The Brotherhood is dedicated to preserving the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Donje Selo and the island of Šolta. Its mission is to safeguard traditional customs, promote Catholic values, and protect the sacred heritage associated with the veneration of Saint Martin and other saints. Through its activities, the Brotherhood encourages the moral and spiritual development of the local community while fostering a spirit of solidarity and mutual support among its members.
A key part of the Brotherhood’s work is the preservation of the long-standing votive tradition connected with the Church of Saint Martin. Members actively promote and maintain important religious celebrations, including the feast days of Saint Martin, Saint Vincent, Saint Helena, and other religious holidays throughout the year. These celebrations represent an important part of the cultural and spiritual identity of Donje Selo.
The association organizes educational activities, cultural gatherings, and charitable initiatives throughout the year. These events help strengthen the connection between members and provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the local community.
The Brotherhood also takes care of valuable votive buildings and other historic properties that have traditionally been maintained by its members. Many of these structures were built by members of the Brotherhood themselves and represent an important part of the village’s heritage. In addition to preserving these buildings, the Brotherhood manages its assets responsibly and works to protect other important church and village properties from deterioration.
Through its activities, the Brotherhood promotes the values of cooperation, solidarity, and service, following the virtues of its patron saint. Members work together to strengthen the moral, cultural, and spiritual life of the community while preserving the unique traditions that shape the identity of Donje Selo.
An important aspect of the Brotherhood’s work is maintaining and promoting the St. Martin Route, a cultural network that connects communities across Europe where the tradition of Saint Martin is celebrated. Through the Brotherhood, Donje Selo is included in this European cultural itinerary coordinated by the European Cultural Centre of St. Martin in Tours, France.
The Brotherhood also contributes to the maintenance of parish churches in Donje Selo according to its abilities, takes care of the Brotherhood House, and helps preserve other valuable religious and community buildings on the island. Close cooperation with other brotherhoods on the island of Šolta is an essential part of its work, including participation in celebrations of local parish patron saints where members proudly carry the Brotherhood’s ceremonial banner.
In addition to religious and heritage activities, the Brotherhood plays an active role in the cultural life of the village. It organizes lectures, presentations, and cultural gatherings, and supports local events such as the summer klapa singing meeting in Donje Selo and other village and municipal celebrations.
The Brotherhood also collaborates with similar organizations across the island of Šolta, throughout Croatia, and internationally. Through partnerships with church organizations, cultural institutions, and associations abroad, it helps promote the cultural and spiritual heritage of Donje Selo to a wider audience.
Finally, the Brotherhood actively contributes to the wellbeing of the village by organizing community initiatives to improve and maintain Donje Selo and by cooperating with local authorities in addressing communal issues. Social gatherings and community activities further strengthen the bonds among members and ensure that the spirit of brotherhood continues to thrive.