Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina
And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years. When Jesus saw him . . . he saith, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.
—Bible, John 5:5–8
On June 24, 1981, six Croatian children witnessed an apparition of a woman holding a child on a hillside. Although they were afraid, fear did not stop them from returning the next day. Upon seeing the apparition again, they prayed the Rosary. On the third day, the apparition identified herself as the Blessed Virgin. On the fifth day, the children returned with villagers, but only the children could see and hear the lady. On the sixth day, the first of many miraculous healings occurred. Subsequently, a shrine dedicated to the Queen of Peace was erected in the square of the local parish church of Saint James.
Whether you desire a healing miracle or would like to venerate Mary, plan a pilgrimage to Medjugorje. No photos are allowed during worship services and periods of adoration; no lighting of candles is allowed on Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain; and no religious articles can be brought into those sacred sites.
Climb Apparition Hill and meditate on holistic wellness. In Saint James Church, light a candle and pray near the wooden cross or attend the evening service when special healing prayers are said.
Millions of pilgrims visit the Marian shrine each year; the anniversary of the apparitions is a popular time of pilgrimage.