On the hill of Okit (135 m high), 4 km from Vodice, the people of Vodice built a church in the 17th century dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel. In 1909, around forty emigrants from Vodice living in Australia financed the construction of 14 chapels representing the Stations of the Cross leading to the summit. In 1942, the old church was destroyed by artillery fire from the Italian army.
After World War II, the communist authorities did not allow the construction of a new one. Permission was only granted in 1967, and the church was erected in just two months. All construction material was carried to the hilltop on the backs of the faithful people of Vodice. During the Homeland War in autumn 1991, this church was also bombarded and destroyed by Serbian-Chetnik forces. While the war was still ongoing, based on the conceptual plan of architect Nikola Bašić from Zadar, technical documentation was prepared for the construction of a new sanctuary.
On May 3rd, 1995, the cornerstone was blessed. Thanks to the generous support and efforts of many individuals, families from Vodice, and devotees of Our Lady from beyond Vodice, this beautiful stone church was built, though it is still awaiting full completion. It is worth noting that in front of the church for many years grew a maple tree up to 4 meters high with three large branches. The branch facing the church would bloom on Christmas night every third year. This sacred tree was cut down in 1951 by opponents of Okit. The feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is celebrated on Okit on July 16, and liturgies are held at the sanctuary on other feast days as well. Many believers make pilgrimages to this holy hill throughout the year, seeking the intercession of the Carmelite Virgin and experiencing her help.
This newest sanctuary to Our Lady on this hill is a lasting testament to the faith, devotion, and love of many generations of Vodice’s people toward Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Additionally, Okit in Vodice is increasingly becoming a spiritual and tourist attraction, not only for locals but also for many visitors.
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