The apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

The apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

The title “Queen of Peace” is closely associated with the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje, a small village in Bosnia and Herzegovina. These apparitions began in 1981 and continue to be reported by several of the original visionaries, who claim that Mary has appeared to them with messages for the world. In these apparitions, the Blessed Virgin Mary is often referred to as the “Queen of Peace,” emphasizing her messages of peace, prayer, fasting, conversion, and penance.

The Medjugorje apparitions have become one of the most well-known and visited pilgrimage sites in the world dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Pilgrims from all over the globe come to Medjugorje seeking spiritual healing, renewal, and the peace that the Queen of Peace promises. The site has become a place of extraordinary faith, prayer, and transformation for many, with reported miracles and conversions strengthening the faith of believers.

The messages of Our Lady of Medjugorje are centered around the importance of prayer, especially the Rosary, the reading of the Holy Bible, fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays, and monthly confession. These practices are encouraged as ways to bring peace to one’s heart and to the world. The Virgin Mary’s messages in Medjugorje are a call to return to God and to live a life of grace, peace, and conversion.

It’s important to note that the Vatican has taken a cautious approach regarding the status of the apparitions in Medjugorje. In 2010, the Holy See appointed a special commission to investigate the phenomena. While the Church has not officially recognized the apparitions as supernatural in origin, it has acknowledged the fruits of faith and conversions that have occurred as a result of the devotion and pilgrimage to Medjugorje. In 2019, Pope Francis allowed for official pilgrimages to Medjugorje, recognizing its importance as a site of prayer and spiritual conversion, while the investigations and discernment about the apparitions themselves continue.

In embracing the title of Our Lady of Peace, whether it be in Medjugorje or in other parts of the world, Mary’s universal message remains a beacon of hope, inviting all to seek peace in their hearts and in the world through deep faith and commitment to her Son, Jesus Christ.

The story of Medjugorje and the young visionaries

The apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje began on June 24, 1981. On that day, six children from the village reported seeing a figure of a woman with a child in her arms on the hill Crnica (also known as Apparition Hill) near the town. These six young people are:

• Vicka Ivanković-Mijatović: Born on September 3, 1964, Vicka was 16 at the time of the first apparitions. She claims to have received messages from the Virgin Mary, mostly focusing on peace, faith, conversion, prayer, and fasting. Vicka has also reported experiencing visions of Heaven, Hell, and Purgatory.
• Ivanka Ivanković-Elez: Born on June 21, 1966, Ivanka was 15 years old at the start of the apparitions. She claims the Virgin Mary confided her tenth and final secret to her in 1985 and since then, she has had only one annual apparition, on June 25, the anniversary of the first apparition.
• Mirjana Dragičević-Soldo: Born on March 18, 1965, Mirjana was 16 when the apparitions began. She received daily apparitions until December 25, 1982, when she received her tenth secret. Since then, she reported receiving apparitions on the 2nd of each month until March 2020, as well as on every March 18, her birthday.
• Marija Pavlović-Lunetti: Born on April 1, 1965, Marija was 16 at the time of the first apparition. She claims to receive messages from the Virgin Mary on the 25th of each month, a practice that reportedly continues to this day.
• Ivan Dragičević: Born on May 25, 1965, Ivan was 16 years old at the beginning of the apparitions. He reports that he continues to have daily apparitions and receives messages from the Virgin Mary.
• Jakov Čolo: Born on March 6, 1971, Jakov was the youngest visionary, only 10 years old at the time of the first apparition. He received daily apparitions until September 12, 1998, when he received his tenth secret. Since then, he has one annual apparition, on December 25.

The visionaries claim that the Virgin Mary introduced herself as the “Queen of Peace” and has been conveying messages to promote peace and reconciliation among people of the world. The initial apparitions sparked both local and international interest, transforming Medjugorje from a small, relatively unknown village into one of the most significant and visited Marian pilgrimage sites in the world.

The visionaries report that they have been given ten “secrets” or prophecies concerning the future of the world, some of which are meant to be revealed to the world at the appropriate time. Despite the Church’s cautious stance towards the supernatural character of the apparitions, the spiritual impact of Medjugorje has been profound, with countless pilgrims experiencing deep conversions and a renewed sense of faith.

Be non-judgmental

The message to be non-judgmental, especially in the context of spiritual experiences and personal journeys, is profound and reflects a deep understanding of the Christian call to love and compassion. When visionaries, such as those from Medjugorje, share insights or messages emphasizing the importance of withholding judgment, they’re touching on a fundamental aspect of Christian living that resonates widely.

The call to be non-judgmental is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, who emphasized love, mercy, and understanding as pillars of our interactions with others. This approach fosters an environment where faith can grow, where people feel safe to share their experiences, and where the community can unite in prayer and support for one another.

In the specific case of the Medjugorje visionaries or any similar spiritual occurrences, this message encourages the faithful to focus on the fruits of such events — often conversion, a deepened prayer life, peace, and acts of charity — rather than getting entangled in debates over authenticity or becoming overly critical of the experiences and testimonies of others. It’s a reminder that, ultimately, the journey of faith is personal and unique to each individual, and that humility and openness should guide our thoughts and actions towards others, especially in matters of faith and personal conviction.

Moreover, this call to non-judgment aligns with the broader messages reportedly given by the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje, which emphasize peace, prayer, fasting, conversion, and penance. These messages aim to draw people closer to God and to one another in love and service, transcending differences and fostering a spirit of unity and peace.

In essence, the invitation to be non-judgmental is an invitation to embody the love and mercy that Jesus taught, to nurture a heart that sees beyond the surface, and to contribute positively to the spiritual journey of others by offering support, understanding, and prayers. It’s a beautiful reminder of how we can live out our faith in practical, compassionate ways, promoting peace and unity within our communities and the world.

 Main focus of the messages

The messages given by the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje have consistently focused on themes of peace, prayer, fasting, faith, conversion, and penance over the years. These messages often emphasize the importance of praying for peace in the world, the power of the Holy Rosary, the need for conversion and returning to God, and the significance of fasting and penance as spiritual practices.

Typically, messages are shared on the 25th of each month through one of the visionaries, Marija Pavlović-Lunetti. Additionally, visionary Mirjana Dragičević-Soldo had been receiving messages on the 2nd of each month, which were directed particularly towards non-believers or those who have not yet come to know the love of God, until March 2020. The messages seek to guide the faithful and to call all people to a deeper relationship with God.

For the latest messages from Medjugorje, I recommend visiting official and reputable Medjugorje websites or the parish website of Medjugorje itself. These sources provide updates on recent messages, reflections, and other relevant information for those interested in the ongoing events and spiritual messages associated with Medjugorje.

Books and online ressources 

For those interested in deepening their understanding of the apparitions of Medjugorje and the messages conveyed by the Virgin Mary, there are numerous books and online resources available that offer insights, testimonies, and scholarly perspectives. Here are some notable resources:

Books

• “My Heart Will Triumph” by Mirjana Soldo
  • One of the visionaries, Mirjana Soldo, shares her personal experiences of the apparitions, along with the messages of Our Lady and how they transformed her life. It’s a firsthand account that provides a deep insight into the events of Medjugorje.
• “Medjugorje: The Message” by Wayne Weible
  • Wayne Weible’s book is a compelling introduction to the apparitions of Medjugorje, offering an accessible and engaging account of the events and their significance. Weible, a journalist, became a devotee after investigating the apparitions and dedicates his life to spreading the messages of Medjugorje.
• “A Child Shall Lead Them: Stories of Transformed Young Lives in Medjugorje” by Wayne Weible
  • This book focuses on the impact of the Medjugorje apparitions on children and teenagers from various parts of the world, showcasing the transformative power of the messages on the younger generation.
• “Queen of Peace Visits Medjugorje” by Joseph A. Pelletier
  • Pelletier offers a detailed account of the apparitions, delving into the messages, the visionaries’ experiences, and the spiritual fruits witnessed by pilgrims to Medjugorje.

Online Resources

• The Official Medjugorje Website (medjugorje.hr)
  • This is the official website of the Parish of Medjugorje. It provides updates on the latest messages, news about events and pilgrimages, and spiritual resources for devotees.
• Medjugorje Web (medjugorje.org)
  • An extensive resource offering information on the apparitions, messages, the visionaries, and articles and books related to Medjugorje. It also includes practical information for pilgrims.
• MaryTV (marytv.tv)
  • An online platform that broadcasts daily Masses from Medjugorje, along with testimonies, catechesis, and the latest messages. It aims to spread the messages of Our Lady of Medjugorje to the world.

These books and online resources can serve as valuable tools for anyone seeking to learn more about the apparitions of Medjugorje, the messages of peace and conversion, and the impact they have had on individuals and communities around the globe. Whether you’re looking for personal testimonies, theological reflections, or simply wish to stay updated on the latest messages, these resources provide a comprehensive look at the phenomenon of Medjugorje.

Specific recommended prayers

In the context of Medjugorje and the messages conveyed by the Virgin Mary, while there isn’t a single specific prayer recommended for all devotees, several forms of prayer are emphasized repeatedly in the messages. These prayers and practices are central to deepening one’s faith and advancing on the spiritual journey. Here are some of the key recommendations:

The Rosary

The Blessed Virgin Mary has emphasized the importance of praying the Rosary daily. The Rosary is a meditative prayer that contemplates the mysteries of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection, through the intercession of Mary. It’s seen as a powerful tool for achieving peace in one’s heart and in the world.

The Holy Mass

Participation in the Holy Mass, the highest form of Christian prayer, is highly encouraged. The messages of Medjugorje often stress the significance of attending Mass as frequently as possible, not just on Sundays but also on weekdays, if one is able.

Fasting

Fasting, particularly on Wednesdays and Fridays, using bread and water, is recommended in the messages. Fasting, combined with prayer, is considered a strong weapon against evil and a path to draw closer to God.

Confession

Regular confession, at least once a month, is encouraged to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation. This practice helps individuals to cleanse themselves of sin, renew their relationship with God, and strengthen their spiritual resolve.

Reading the Bible

Devotees are encouraged to read the Holy Bible daily, allowing God’s Word to guide and inspire their lives. The Virgin Mary’s messages often stress the importance of living the Gospels and applying them in one’s life.

Personal Prayer

Personal, heartfelt prayer is also recommended. This could involve speaking to God in one’s own words, meditating in silence, or using other devotional prayers that resonate with the individual’s spirituality.

Prayer of the Queen of Peace

In addition to these practices, a specific prayer associated with the apparitions of Medjugorje, known as the “Prayer of the Queen of Peace,” is often recited by pilgrims and those devoted to Our Lady of Medjugorje:

“Queen of Peace, pray for us.”

This simple invocation is a powerful plea for Mary’s intercession for peace in our hearts and in the world.

Each of these recommended practices is a pathway to deepen one’s relationship with God and to live out the call to peace and conversion that is central to the messages of Medjugorje.

Biblical references for the message of peace

The message of peace is deeply rooted in the Bible, resonating through both the Old and New Testaments. This theme is central to the Christian faith, embodying the hope and promise of God’s kingdom. Here are some key biblical references that underscore the importance of peace:

Old Testament References

• Isaiah 9:6
  • “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
  • This prophecy about Jesus highlights His eternal reign of peace.
• Psalm 34:14
  • “Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.“
  • A call to live righteously and to actively seek and maintain peace.
• Micah 5:5
  • “And he will be our peace when the Assyrians invade our land and march through our fortresses.”
  • A prophecy about the Messiah who will be the source of peace and security for His people.

New Testament References

• Matthew 5:9
  • “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
  • Part of the Beatitudes, this verse blesses those who work for peace, highlighting its value in the eyes of God.
• John 14:27
  • “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.“
  • Jesus offers His peace to His disciples, a peace that transcends worldly understanding and fear.
• Philippians 4:6-7
  • “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
  • This passage encourages believers to pray and trust in God, promising God’s peace as a guard over their hearts and minds.
• Ephesians 2:14
  • “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.“
  • Paul speaks of Jesus as our peace, who reconciles us with God and breaks down the walls of division among people.
• Luke 2:14
  • “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
  • The angels announce the birth of Christ to the shepherds, declaring peace on earth through His coming.

These scriptures reflect the comprehensive nature of peace in the biblical context — not just the absence of conflict but a deep, pervasive sense of well-being, reconciliation, and harmony with God and one another. This biblical message of peace is at the heart of the messages given in Marian apparitions, including those of Medjugorje, calling the faithful to live in peace with God, within themselves, and with each other, fostering a world more reflective of God’s kingdom.

Tips for Visiting Medjugorje

Visiting Medjugorje is a journey of faith, reflection, and personal transformation for many pilgrims. Whether you’re drawn by devotion, curiosity, or in search of spiritual renewal, there are several tips to consider to make your pilgrimage as enriching and smooth as possible:

1. Prepare Spiritually

• Begin your pilgrimage even before you leave home through prayer, fasting, and reflection. Intend your journey as a time of spiritual growth and openness to whatever experiences or messages might come your way.

2. Learn About Medjugorje

• Familiarize yourself with the history of Medjugorje, the visionaries, and the messages of Our Lady. Reading books or online resources can deepen your understanding and enhance your pilgrimage experience.

3. Travel Arrangements

• Medjugorje is accessible from several nearby airports (Sarajevo, Split, and Dubrovnik being popular options) followed by a bus or car ride to the village. Consider arranging your travel with agencies specializing in Medjugorje pilgrimages, as they can provide valuable guidance and insights.

4. Accommodation

• There’s a range of accommodation options in Medjugorje, from hotels to guesthouses run by local families. Staying with locals can offer a more personal and enriching experience. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.

5. Visit Key Sites

• Ensure you visit Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain, where the initial and subsequent apparitions took place. These are sites of prayer and reflection. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be challenging.

6. Attend Services

• Participate in the daily Mass, evening prayer program, Adoration, and the Rosary at St. James Church. These are central to the Medjugorje pilgrimage experience.

7. Confession

• Take advantage of the opportunity for confession. Medjugorje is known for the profound experiences many pilgrims have during confession here.

8. Be Open and Respectful

• Whether you experience something profound or simply enjoy a time of peace and prayer, remain open and respectful of others’ experiences and beliefs. Medjugorje attracts people from all walks of life, each on their own spiritual journey.

9. Pray for Others

• Bring the intentions of others with you in prayer. Many pilgrims find that praying for others in such a sacred place brings blessings to both those they pray for and themselves.

10. Document Your Experience

– Keep a journal of your experiences, thoughts, and reflections. Writing can be a form of prayer and a way to process and remember your pilgrimage.

11. Stay Connected

– Consider joining a Medjugorje prayer group or community when you return home. Staying connected can help sustain the spiritual growth you experienced on your pilgrimage.

12. Travel Light

– Pack lightly but wisely. Bring essentials and leave space for any religious articles you may wish to bring back. Remember, the journey is also a spiritual one, so physical lightness can mirror the internal process of letting go and opening up to God’s grace.

A pilgrimage to Medjugorje is as much about the journey within as it is about the physical journey to the village. With an open heart and a spirit of prayer, you can make the most of this profound experience of faith.

Discovering Medjugorje

A Journey of Peace and Spiritual Renewal

In the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina lies Medjugorje, a small village that has become a beacon of hope and spiritual renewal for millions around the world. Since 1981, when six young visionaries first reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary, Medjugorje has drawn people from all corners of the earth, each seeking something more profound than what the eye can see. Amidst a world often clouded by uncertainty and a digital landscape awash with misleading narratives, the true essence of Medjugorje shines as a testament to faith, peace, and transformative love.

The Messages of Medjugorje: A Call to Peace

At its core, Medjugorje is not about sensationalism or apocalyptic warnings as some misrepresented online content might suggest. Instead, it’s about the simple, yet profound messages conveyed by the Virgin Mary, known here as the Queen of Peace. These messages underscore the importance of prayer, fasting, confession, the Eucharist, and the Bible. Far from promoting fear, they are invitations to embrace peace in our hearts and extend it to the world—a peace that transcends understanding and heals divisions.

A Pilgrimage of the Heart

Visiting Medjugorje is as much a pilgrimage of the heart as it is a physical journey. Pilgrims often speak of a palpable sense of peace that envelops the village, of profound personal conversions, and of coming back to a faith forgotten or neglected. The beauty of Medjugorje lies in its simplicity—the quiet mornings on Apparition Hill, the communal prayer at St. James Church, the heartfelt confessions that bring tears and relief, and the silent, starlit nights that remind us of the vastness of God’s love.

Beyond the Clickbait: The True Spirit of Medjugorje

In an age where clickbait and sensationalism can cloud our screens and our judgments, the essence of Medjugorje stands as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the quest for authenticity in our spiritual journeys. The messages from Medjugorje are not about fear but about returning to God’s love, about the transformative power of prayer, and about fostering peace within ourselves and in the world.

For those unfamiliar with Medjugorje or who have encountered misleading representations online, I invite you to look beyond the surface. Read the firsthand accounts of pilgrims, delve into the messages themselves, and, if you’re so inclined, visit this place of grace. You might discover that Medjugorje offers not sensationalist fodder but a path to something deeper, more enduring, and infinitely more rewarding—a journey back to the heart of faith.

An Invitation to All

Whether you are a person of faith or simply someone seeking clarity and peace in a tumultuous world, Medjugorje extends an invitation. It calls us to pause, to reflect, and to open our hearts to the possibility of a peace and love that the world cannot give. This small village, with its remarkable story, reminds us of the capacity for change within each of us and the power of hope, prayer, and reconciliation.

In Medjugorje, the message is clear: peace begins with a simple “yes” to love, to prayer, and to faith. It’s a journey that asks not for fear but for an open heart. And in this openness, many have found a renewal of spirit and a deep, abiding peace that they carry back into the world.

In the warmth of Our Lady’s messages, let us find the courage to seek this peace, to nurture it within ourselves, and to share it with others. Medjugorje, with its message of peace and conversion, stands as a beacon of hope—a testament to the power of faith to transcend the narratives of fear and division, guiding us instead towards a future anchored in love and unity.

This illustration aims to embody the spirit of peace, prayer, and spiritual renewal that is so deeply associated with Medjugorje. May it serve as a visual reflection of the serene and uplifting essence that draws so many to this sacred place, inviting all to experience the profound sense of calm and hope that resides there. 🙏🏼🕊️

Let us pray with Mary, the Holy Mother of Jesus, Mother of ALL

Article written with help of openai‘s chatGPT language Models, Dalle and Picsart