The Verzej cultural centre was set up with the support of European funding for programmes of rural development during the period 2007-2013. With these funds modern rooms were built for the study and documentation of artistic handicrafts and a multimedia hall for meetings and exhibitions. In addition the Centre was recently blessed by Bishop Peter Stumpf, the ordinary of Murska Sobota, on a visit on 24 May for the Solemnity of Mary Help of Christians.
On the occasion of the official opening of the Ecomuseum – Centre for Artistic Handicrafts in Slovenia, on Friday 10 June there was also the formal presentation of certificates to those attending the handicrafts courses in ceramics, ironwork, and wickerwork products. The diplomas awarded by the Verzej Centre are recognised at national level, since the Centre has obtained the required national qualification for providing and assessing such courses.
Present at the Award Ceremony was also the Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Food Production the Hon. Dejan Zidan. Accompanied by the Salesian Brother Janez Krnc, the one responsible for this work by the Mayor of Veržej, Dr. Slavko Petovar and by other representatives of regional institutes which collaborate in the project , the Minister visited the Exhibitions of the work of those taking part in the courses and also of some local elementary schools which are collaborating in the promotion and revival of handicraft skills. The guests admired particularly the handicrafts being produced on site.
Addressing the audience present the Minister described the centre as a model of collaboration between the Salesians and regional organisations for the promotion of old and new methods of working at a time of large scale unemployment. He also noted the educational purpose of the Salesian work which was attempting to renew popular Christian spirituality and the dignity of work through the recovery of traditional skills and trades.
Published 14/06/2011
