The simple fact is this, that although nobody knows for certain what is the true nature and origin of the reported visions and other phenomena, a great many lives are being changed for the better there in an almost continuous stream.

It is this factor that led the late Pope, John Paul II, to his validation of private visits there whilst at the same time avoiding the necessity of pontificating on the matter. We should all, I think, follow his example!

I do wish and pray that the opponents of Medjugorje would understand this point. What is taught in Medjugorje is, for the most part, solid, traditional Christian teaching of a kind acceptable not only in Western catholicism, but also, to my mind, throughout Christendom, East and West.

Understanding the nature of Christian truth gives us good reason for hope in a dangerous and despondent world.

We should continue, therefore, to suggest a Medjugorje pilgrimage to those we feel would benefit. At the same time we ought to point out that there is no official declaration made as to the nature of the apparitions. We should not be too worried if the outcome of official investigation appears negative. There are too many positives around Medjugorje for that!

I value the positive results I and my colleagues, particularly my late wife, Hannelore, have received there.  After all, if Bishop Peric, the local Diocesan,  is right - that there is nothing supernatural about the apparitions, that those at the centre are normal and healthy catholics, and that to say you are having visions of the Blessed Virgin Mary doesn't mean you are mad - then the parish of Medjugorje is to be complimented for showing us all the benefits of a healthy devotion to Mary and Jesus.

It means also, and this cannot be emphasised enough, that in organising visits there, every pilgrim should ensure that a sensible and experienced spiritual director goes with them. I write this with some passion as so much of the movement against the events there has come from those who went on their own, on the off-chance, to see what was happening, got into the wrong company, and were deceived as to what was going on.

Decide and plan properly, therefore, for your pilgrimage this year and next. It doesn't have to be Medjugorje.In the UK we have a marvellous Marian centre of activity at Walsingham which might just be the right idea for you this year! Why not check it out? The autumn leaves should be fine! Experience for your self the excellent spiritual development that is taking place at these shrines, day by day throughout the world? Check out this link for the Roman Catholic National  Shrine situated at Walsingham:

http://www.walsingham.org.uk/romancatholic

This next link gives details of the Anglican shrine and the provision for Orthodox and non-catholic pilgrims:

http://www.walsinghamanglican.org.uk

Both sites give details of the shrine, the various sites, and available accommodation.

As you will see Walsingham is very ecumenical and caters, as we do, for both Roman and Anglican Catholics and for others, including the Orthodox.

This is not to say that such development doesn't take place in parishes and places all over the world, simply to comment that so many have found this particular place especially helpful in their own development and ongoing Christian life.

Why not take time out and refresh yourself for the winter ahead?

Yours ay,

Ted Baty

Camberley Medjugorje Centre, 25 Martindale Avenue, Heatherside, Camberley,
Surrey. UK. GU15 1BB.Telephone and Fax: 01276 500357
E-mail: e.baty@ntlworld.com

The Reverend Doctor Edward Baty, IMM, Director