| 6. My little personal testimony. Because I am becoming frail in my old age, it was impossible for me to climb this Hill, especially 9 nights in a row. But that made me so sad. So, I said to the Blessed Mother, “at least let me take the first steps with the crowd”! A generous brother supported my arm, but from the first black cobblestones of the Podbrdo, I was desperate, saying to myself “If I get as far as the 1st joyful mystery, that would already be a miracle!” So, we took a break at that mystery, and then we continued. The more we went forwards, the more I felt strength coming to me, it was tangible! So, I was able to follow this novena to the top with all these wonderful people of God, of all races, peoples and languages, which was an unspeakable joy. We didn’t want to leave the top of the hill!
What a great lesson! When Mary calls, we must go, and it is by going that we receive from her everything we need to fulfill her desire for us. If I had waited until I felt the strength to climb, I would have stayed at the bottom of the hill… (Of course, this shouldn’t be turned into an absolute rule.)
Now, a question, that everyone asked themselves: Why did the Theotokos ask us for this exceptional novena, in the middle of the night, among the rocks? Many responses have been published. As far as I am concerned, it is enough to know that the Queen of Heaven and earth divinely sees the whole world and its inhabitants, she knows the plans of God and also those of our enemy, Satan… Knowing all this, she asked for our help to promote good, to destroy an evil plan, and probably avoid the worst, out of love for her children. She clearly sees and tells us that “the family is under attack” and that “peace is in danger”. So as a mother, how could she not count on the help of our prayer to eradicate a good dose of the evils that threatens us?!
Let us not forget that profound word she said on July 2, 2014: “Dear Children, I want all of you with me in eternity, for you are part of me!”
“Without you, dear children, I cannot help the world!” (August 28, 1986)
“I need you to collaborate with me in every moment of your life…
7. A child screamed! The scene takes place at the Magnificat Retreat Center, in the small chapel adjoining the large basement room. A local family was invited to the apparition with the visionary Marija. But when they arrived, the room was full. They decided to try the little gallery, but that too was crowded. So, they went to sit on the steps leading to the gallery. Their 2-year-old little boy, Franjo, was there with his mother. Seated halfway up the steps, they had a bird’s eye view of what was going on below. The little boy had often heard about Jesus and Mary at home, because he participated in family prayer every day. And there he was on that busy day, at Marija’s Chapel. To make sure he wouldn’t disturb others during the prayer, his mother – pregnant with her 2nd – put a pacifier in his mouth. He was calm, although uncomfortably seated on those small steps. Below, everyone got down on their knees at Marija’s request. |
