In the message delivered to Hina, Cardinal Bozanic said that recently some circles in Croatia were advocating isolating the country from other European countries, especially from the European Union.
Bozanic said that instead of claiming "everyone is against us, international institutions aren't helpful, Europe doesn't want us, it would be more useful to examine our consciences and ask if we, as individuals, as a state, and also as a Church, have done everything we should have. Are we doing what is for our common good, or are we hopelessly giving in to resignation, helping with our actions, unconsciously and without wanting to, those who are against us?"
As for doubts regarding Croatia's present and future, Cardinal Bozanic said that "together with John Paul II we may claim that the Croatian people became a European nation by baptism more than 13 centuries ago".
"Throughout history we Croats have had a part in shaping Europe. We have contributed to Europe's development by participating in the creation of European science and culture, but also by defending the European continent when necessary".
"Today all means and institutions in the country and abroad at our disposal should be used to interpret the truth about ourselves, about our past and present, and also about the Homeland War," said Cardinal Bozanic.
He said one did not prove the legal and justified fight for Croatia's freedom with provocative posters, undignified threats or futile protests, but defended and interpreted it by using international institutions as well.
The cardinal spoke against uncritically yielding to "negative cultural models" present in Europe.
"The Croatian people preserved, and even reinforced, its national identity in the Communist regime. We must prepare to once again defend our own identity in the European community. It is a serious challenge which from a task must be turned into some kind of cultural promotion."
The cardinal urged responsibly taking part in all the positive developments in Croatia, Europe and the world, and not losing hope.
He concluded the message by wishing a happy Easter and taking the opportunity to pray for the homeland.