Our Lady of Medjugorje
Introduction
Welcome to the Brotherhood of Ascension’s webpage dedicated to Our Lady of Medjugorje. This page aims to provide an understanding of the apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Medjugorje and how they align with the teachings of the Catholic Church. Here, we will explore the significance of these apparitions and offer guidance on growing in faith according to the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
The Apparitions of Our Lady of Medjugorje
Since 1981, six individuals in the small village of Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina, have reported experiencing apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Known as the "Queen of Peace," Our Lady’s messages often call for prayer, conversion, penance, and peace. The Catholic Church, while not formally recognizing these apparitions as supernatural, acknowledges the positive impact they have had on the faith and devotion of many believers.
Understanding the Apparitions
Role of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Blessed Virgin Mary holds a special place in the Catholic faith. She is the Mother of God and the Mother of the Church. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), Mary’s role in salvation history is significant:
"Finally the Immaculate Virgin, preserved free from all stain of original sin, when the course of her earthly life was finished, was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory, and exalted by the Lord as Queen over all things, so that she might be the more fully conformed to her Son, the Lord of lords and conqueror of sin and death" (CCC 966).
Messages from Medjugorje
The messages from Medjugorje emphasize key aspects of Christian life:
Prayer: "Pray, pray, pray" is a frequent exhortation from Our Lady, encouraging us to deepen our relationship with God (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Conversion: A call to return to God and embrace a life of holiness (Matthew 4:17).
Penance: A reminder of the importance of repentance and penance for our sins (Luke 13:3).
Peace: Our Lady, Queen of Peace, calls us to be instruments of peace in the world (John 14:27).
Growing in Faith According to the Catechism
Prayer
Prayer is the foundation of our relationship with God. The Catechism teaches that prayer is a "vital necessity" (CCC 2744). Regular prayer, including the Rosary, as recommended by Our Lady, helps us to grow closer to Christ.
Conversion and Penance
The Catechism underscores the importance of ongoing conversion and penance. Conversion is a lifelong process of turning away from sin and turning towards God (CCC 1428). Penance, which includes acts of repentance, prayer, and almsgiving, is essential for spiritual growth (CCC 1431).
Sacraments
The sacraments are vital to our spiritual life. Participation in the Eucharist and regular Confession are especially important. The Eucharist nourishes our soul (CCC 1324), while Confession brings us God's mercy and helps us to grow in holiness (CCC 1422).
Peace
As followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers. The Catechism teaches that peace is not merely the absence of war but the tranquility of order (CCC 2304). By living out the messages of Medjugorje, we can become instruments of God’s peace in the world.
Conclusion
The apparitions of Our Lady of Medjugorje invite us to deepen our faith and grow closer to God through prayer, conversion, penance, and peace. By following the guidance of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, we can respond to Our Lady’s call and live out our Christian vocation more fully. Let us embrace these messages with open hearts and strive to become true disciples of Christ.
For more information and resources, please explore our website and join us in prayer and devotion to Our Lady, Queen of Peace.
References:
Catechism of the Catholic Church, 966, 1422, 1428, 1431, 2304, 2744.
Holy Bible: 1 Thessalonians 5:17, Matthew 4:17, Luke 13:3, John 14:27.