The apparition began at 3.00 pm and lasted 10 minutes. Our Lady came joyful and in a golden dress with the baby Jesus in her arms. She spoke about the secrets and blessed everyone. She gave a message:

"Dear children!

CROATIAN PRESIDENT FRANJO TUDJMAN DIES

On Friday December 10, 1999 Dr. Franjo Tudjman, the President of Croatia, died. We report the news about President Tudjman's death to the friends of Medjugorje because of his ties and interest in the events at Medjugorje. During his Presidency he visited the Shrine of the Queen of Peace three times. On more than one occasion he also expressed thanks to the Medjugorje pilgrims for helping unselfishly during the war in Bosnia-Hercegovina and Croatia. We commend our deceased President and the Croatian people to your prayers.

NUMBER OF COMMUNIONS AND CONCELEBRANTS

In the month of November at the shrine of the Queen of Peace in Medjugorje 50,000 Holy Communions were distributed and at the holy masses there were 1,085 concelebrations by priests from home and abroad, that is, 36 per day.

During November the most numerous groups were from: United States, Germany, France, Australia, Hungary, Austria, Vietnam, Poland, Canada, Slovakia, Sri Lanka, Italy, Korea, Haiti, Lebanon, Republic of South Africa, Portugal, Letonia, the Philippines and, of course, Croatia.

MEETING OF THE WORKERS OF MEDJUGORJE ORGANIZATIONS

On November 20th at the Franciscan monastery in Slano a meeting was held for all the workers of the Mothers' Village, the "Domus Pacis" house of prayer, the "Medjugorje-MIR" Humanitarian Association, The Friends of the Talented Fund and the Medjugorje "MIR" Information Center. The meeting in which about 30 workers took part was conducted by pastor, Fr. Ivan Landeka, Fr. Slavko Barbaric and Fr. Miljenko Stojic. Fr. Slavko addressed those gathered on the theme "The Gift-Concerns Developing in Medjugorje". The aim of this annually held meeting is a deepening consciousness about the responsibility of working with pilgrims and all those who cover the activity of these organizations.

They are recommended to our prayers!

SEMINAR FOR VICTIMS OF THE HOMELAND WAR

From December 2nd to 5th a seminar was held in Medjugorje for the victims of the homeland war (widows and parents of the deceased, missing in action and captured Croat defenders). The theme of the meeting was based on the words of St. Paul: "Who will separate us from the love of Christ?"

At the conclusion of the seminar this Joint Declaration of the participants was adopted:

"In these difficult times for the Croatian people and state, Medjugorje all the while has been a signpost for where and how to go further. Many have right in this difficult, but simultaneously gracious time, found comfort and strength in Mary's patronage. And this seminar was one step toward helping everyone, in the light of Jesus' gospel messages and the messages that Mary gives here, to look together according to that light for new ways, ways of hope against every hope. In this seminar, as always, we thought about those dearest to us and sought to conform our thoughts to those of Jesus and Mary, being aware that only with Jesus and Mary can we be Christians in the third millennium."

CELEBRATION OF ST. NICHOLAS DAY

On the feast of St. Nicholas, December 6th, a large number of children gathered in the Medjugorje church for a communal celebration. This year also the arrival of St. Nicholas aroused joy in the childrens' hearts. There was no end to their prayers, enthusiasm and joy. St. Nicholas this time also rewarded the childrens' goodness, and those who are not always obedient were invited to be better, especially now when Christmas is at the door.

FEAST OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

In recent days the atmosphere of prayer, peace and community characterized the shrine of Medjugorje due to the large number of pilgrims groups that visited it for the feast day of Immaculate Conception. Local pilgrims came from all parts of the country, while the most numerous foreign pilgrims groups were from France, Italy, USA, Czech Republic, England, Brazil, Austria and Korea.

On the day itself the Peace Rosary was prayed on Apparition Hill. Several thousand took part in the evening Holy Mass.

NEW YEAR

A prayer vigil for the New Year will be held also this year in the church of Medjugorje. The Vigil begins at 10 PM, and ends with Holy Mass at midnight. These are days when the greatest number of young people gather in the shrine of Medjugorje. Therefore, on this occasion we invite all young people who are still thinking about where to close the old year and bring in the New Year, to spend that "craziest" of nights with their peers in the shrine of the Queen of Peace in Medjugorje, and through prayer and song go on in life with the Lord.

Simultaneous translation for all language groups will be organized. The price for lodging, transport and seminar is 315 DM per person for double room (a day extra!). Single supplement is 40 DM. Payment will be made to the Seminar organizer upon arrival at the hotel. There is possibility for transport from the Split airport to Hotel "Sunce" in Neum. All who need transport on March 19 should give notice of the flight number and exact time of arrival to the Association "Medjugorje-Mir" in Split no later than the end of December by fax +385 21 361 354. For the last day transport will be organized from Neum to Medjugorje. Radio and earphones for simultaneous translation should be brought along. Radio and earphones will also be made available during the seminar.

We have closed the calendar for the ecclesiastical year of 1999 and the liturgical calendar for 2000 is on the table. Although it will not be an occasion for congratulations, it does not mean that something serious is not beginning. On the contrary! The pre-Christmas season is starting in which there is no more room for the counting of years, but whose contents are valued and counted.

As Christians what should we do to stimulate one another to a more intensive faith life? Criticize? No! Whoever just criticizes wastes energy. Praise? No! The one who is only praised becomes arrogant. Perhaps say to one another something that the other can accept. Open the Gospel and see the simplicity of the Word that edifies and changes! Our Lady's messages and the manner in which she directs us can be for us a good manual on how we can admonish one another about something.

Fr. Ivan Landeka

NUMBER OF HOLY COMMUNIONS AND CONCELEBRANTS

During the month of October 140 000 faithful received holy communion in the Sanctuary of the Queen of Peace in Medjugorje and 3 047 priests from here and abroad concelebrated holy masses, that is 98 each day.

Throughout the entire Catholic world, the month of October is marked by great piety for the Virgin Mary. That is why such a great number of pilgrims came to this Marian Shrine during this month. The faithful came from all over the world. The most numerous were from the US, Poland, England, Ireland, Austria and Germany.

VISITS OF BISHOPS

During October, five bishops came on a private visit to Medjugorje: Msgr. Joseph Mugeny Sabiti and Msgr. Christopher Kakooza from Uganda, Msgr. Stanislas Lukumwena from the Congo, Msgr. Jose de Jesus Nunez Viloria, a retired bishop from Venezuela and Msgr. Emilio L. Bataclan from the Philippines.

In this Press Bulletin we quote the impressions of the two bishops from Uganda. Among other things, Msgr. Joseph Mugeny said: "I have no problem about anything here. In fact, what is happening here is with great intensity. All over the world, there are things happening. This time we are living in is a special time. God is giving us special graces through this place. Many people who have problems with their faith should come here to Medjugorje. Medjugorje is a chance, a privilige, special gifts given by God through the Blessed Virgin Mary to help us. The world is in an extremely bad state and it is good that we have places like Medjugorje. Wars, divorce, drugs - all these are bad things. We need such a place where we are able to learn about true love, true peace, true faith. So there is no doubt about what is happening here. It is much more intense here than in any other place. The people living here are very prayerful. I believe that the persons who lead the Church should come here and experience the graces and gifts of this place, which will help them to live a better life and to lead others towards God in a better way."

Msgr. Christopher Kakooza had the following thoughts: "The Blessed Virgin Mary has appeared in many other places. Important is Her call for compassion, prayer and penance. Our Lady asks us to sanctify our lives, to convert, to turn our lives toward God so that we may be worthy to enter heaven. I think the message we must take to the whole world is conversion, prayer and to go towards God and so to open the way to eternity."

MISSIONARY TRIP OF FATHER BRANIMIR MUSA

Father Branimir Musa spent the months of September and October in the US. He held three retreats in Chicago for members of hercegovenian Franciscan order in the US. Following the invitation of Medjugorje-pilgrims and Centers for Peace, Father Branimir attended Marian Conferences in Chicago and Portland, both of which lasted two days and were attended by thousands of faithful. Such encounters confirm that Our Lady's message of peace is spreading from Medjugorje throughout the entire world and finds fertile soil among modern man who seeks peace.

VISITING THE PRISONERS IN DEN HAAG

On behalf of the parish of Medjugorje, Father Slavko Barbari visited our prisoners in Den Haag on October 1, 1999. The visit had originally been scheduled on September 17^th, however, for some unknown reason no entry permit was granted for the Netherlands at that time. Fr. Slavko was welcomed by Fr. Pavo Dominikovi, the missionary for our countrymen who work in the Netherlands. He visits the prisoners once a month. During their cordial talk, which lasted four hours, they spoke about their trials, the court proceedings, the witnesses - most of whom testify but want to remain anonymous. In any case, this is very significant! This was followed by personal confessions and the celebration of holy mass. All are in good spiritual, physical and especially in good mental condition. One of them said: "While listening to a witness, I felt sorry for him because I know that after all these lies he will not be able to find peace. So I began to pray for him."

General Blaški is awaiting his verdict with dignity; the prosecutor is asking for lifelong detention whereas the defense is pleading for an acquittal. Furunija and Muci have appealed their verdict and are waiting for a court order. The hearing against Darijo Kordi is still in progress. Many of the witnesses are former observers and humanitarian helpers. Now their true reasons for wanting "to help" have become even more apparent. The legal proceedings are continuing. The trials of the Krupeški brothers, Vlatko Krupeški, Papi, Josipovi, "erkez and Šanti have ended. New among them is Vinko Martinovi-Štela from Mostar. All are in good spirits. They are aware that their trial is more of a political nature than a question of personal guilt. The logic of politics is unpredictable and so the verdicts are very uncertain. They have accepted the fact that here judgement is passed on the entire Croatian people, whose mere existence is bothersome to many. However, they are convinced that justice will prevail. They are particularly grateful to Medjugorje for organizing prayer meetings for them. Every first Saturday of the month, their families come on pilgrimage to Medjugorje. The prisoners are very thankful to those who include them in their prayers and to those who help them with material means.

FATHER LEONARD ORE REVISITED KOSOVO

Father Leonard Ore, the President of the humanitarian association "Medjugorje-Mir" in Split, visited Kosovo again on October 11, 1999. By talking with the priests and the population, he found out that conditions have not improved. Winter is near and the roofs of the burned houses have not yet been repaired. Many who have returned still live in tents next to their destroyed homes. The international humanitarian organizations have taken on the responsibility to repair the demolished roofs and to close the holes but, up to now, almost nothing has been done. Also the supplying of food, clothing and shoes is not adequate. It is necessary to now ask benefactors and small humanitarian organizations to help directly so that they will be able to supply the people of Kosovo with food and clothing before the onset of winter - especially in the more remote areas. In addition, there is a need for furniture and agricultural machines. We want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped the population of Kosovo in such a selfless manner.

ABOUT "FRAMA"

In the last Press Bulletins we mentioned some of the important events regarding the spiritual life of the youth of our parish. October 10^th was also an important day for them. We take this opportunity to inform you about the activities of FRAMA, the Catholic youth organization, in the parish of Medjugorje. FRAMA (Franciscan youth) is an organization to which belong young boys, girls, students and workers. The goal of this organization is to educate young people towards an active Christian life. FRAMA has been active in Medjugorje for the last three years and has about 50 members. In addition, there are candidates who want to join FRAMA, the "messengers of St. Francis". Since the FRAMA members are young energetic youths, it is the goal of the leader to use this energy in the right manner. The various activities of FRAMA include: weekly meetings for discussions and prayers, pariticipation in the liturgy of the local church (leading the rosary and sometimes singing during the mass), working in the media (editing of transmissions for the radio station "Mir", Medjugorje, and writing of articles for the Catholic press), stage-plays, ecological and humanitarian work, pilgrimages to wellknown places of pilgrimage etc. Also this year, eleven members spent some time on the island of Jakljan as hosts for the children and wives of the fallen Croatian defenders - who were there on vacation. Working with the children and leading them in the prayer program, the youths had a wonderful opportunity to give witness of their being part of the Franciscan movement. On October 3^rd, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, together with members of three Franciscan orders, they performed the rite of St. Francis' passing away. On Sunday, October 10^th, eighteen members extended their vows to live according to the gospel in the manner of St. Francis. At the same time, having met all prerequisites, fifteen candidates made their first vows. The vows were accepted by the parish priest, Father Ivan Landeka, who was assisted by Father Branko Radoš, the spiritual guide of the youth.

Fr. Ivan Landeka

VISIT OF AUSTRIAN BISHOP

After having taken part at a meeting of the faithful with the Holy Father in Maribor (Slovenia) on September 19^th, the archbishop of Salzburg (Austria), Msgr. Georg Eder, visited Medjugorje on September 20^th. On this occasion he said the following:

"I am here now for the second time, but not officially, since - up to the present - a bishop is not allowed to come on an official pilgrimage here. I came to Medjugorje for only one day for personal reasons. I greatly trust in Our Lady of Medjugorje. Also I, as bishop, carry many things around with me which burden me. Then one needs to go somewhere to look for help and find it. Every smart child goes to its mother. So the bishop also needs help. At the beginning of the year, I found much help here and I hope that, also this time, I will not leave emptyhanded.

What happens here is not wrong, it is not a lie, but it is good. When, at some time in the future, the credibility of the events here will be accepted, what will happen to those who did not believe? There is no doubt about it: what happens here is good. What happens here is what should happen in the Church: prayer, mass, confession, adoration, conversion, the formation of prayer groups, vocations. These are all in light of the events which are being guided by Mary, with which She is preparing us for the new millennium. Much is happening here that we in the Church have forgotten. Mary calls and teaches us. For the Church in Austria, I can say: 'We have forgotten much and we must begin anew with what Mary tells us in Medjugorje.'

Since the beginning of the apparitions the 19^th year is passing. There are six visionaries. It is interesting that throughout all this time their credibility has remained intact, they have never contradicted themselves. This is a true miracle. In Lourdes, there was one visionary, in Fatima there were three - and the apparitions only lasted a short while. Here it is completely different. Our Lady does not speak about what is happening at present. There was a terrible war here. But now I see that this was very wise. If She were to start speaking about things that are happening in the world, there would be a great danger of getting too involved. When I asked the visionary, Ivan, why Our Lady never speaks about the problems of our times, he simply answered that Our Lady tells us what we should do: that we should pray, personally, in our family and in prayer groups. And I realize that it is really so. The reason for war and every other distress lies within us. When people find peace in God, they can transmit this peace to others. That is why Mary is right. Here people experience joy, peace and happiness. I see that. The best way to heal the many negative things in the world is to point toward the positive things.

I must admit that at the beginning the messages were too simple for me. We theologians are like that. We want something great. Sometimes I thought the messages to be too banal and too simple. This was how I felt until my first visit. But since then, I experience them differently. Every evening I read one message. When I read it the first time, it again seems very simple. But when I read it the second time, I realize that we are being told in a simple way what we need. We are like that: we want great movements, sublime things, and forget that everything starts in a very simple manner in the heart of each one of us: first peace, then towards the light and then joy. Mary is a mother and She speaks simply. Very often I recall the words of my own mother: 'How often do I have to tell you that?' While always repeating the same things to us, she was educating us. So what our mother said came into our hearts. I remember how she admonished us to pray and to go to confession. But every friday she still had to remind us not to forget confession. Here in Medjugojre, Mary has chosen the right way to help us and I am grateful for everything.

Although only for one day, I was glad to be able to come to Medjugorje and I must admit that with this visit I also thought of myself. I thank you for everything and may God bless you in everything you are doing here."

PRAYER MEETINGS IN BELGIUM AND LUXEMBOURG

As we already mentioned in the last edition of the Press Bulletin, Father Slavko Barbaric was in Belgium and Luxembourg from the 17^th to the 20^th of September.

In the evening of Sept. 17^th, in Brussels in the beautiful franciscan church, about 250 to 300 faithful - most of whom are Medjugorje pilgrims - gathered to take part in the adoration of Jesus in the most blessed sacrament of the altar. The next day, there was an all-day prayer meeting in Beauring, the Belgian place of pilgrimage, where Our Lady appeared in the early thirtees of this century, especially calling for prayer and the conversion of the sinners. The prayer meeting began with a short welcome, the praying of the sorrowful mysteries, talks about the messages of Our Lady, the glorious mysteries, followed by the celebration of holy mass with many priests who had been available for confession throughout the entire time. The program ended in the evening with the adoration of the holy eucharist and the prayer for healing. A great number of faithful attended the meeting. Father Mark, the founder of the missionary community "Tiberiada" spoke about his vocation and the work of his community, which is open to all, particularly to the youth. He spoke vividly about the spiritual fruits of the community and about its missionary work. His talk was very picturesque; at one point, he stood up and let a white dove fly over those present. In addition to this symbolic act, he also strew wheat grains throughout the entire pilgrimage place, as a symbol for the sowing of the words of God. He put some wheat sheaves in front of the statue of Our Lady, symbolizing the richness of the fruits of the sown words. Throughout the entire day, he gave testimony about the spirit of prayer the Queen of Peace has put into the hearts of the pilgrims who tirelessly have remained true to Her call to pray personally, in the families and in the newly-formed prayer groups.

On September 19^th, Fr. Slavko visited the family of Prince Henry of Luxembourg in their castle in Fischenbach. His wife, Princess Maria, who was born in Cuba, had been in Medjugorje in the middle of July with three of her five children. She also gave testimony of the rich experiences she and her children had in Medjugorje and how these help her in her daily responsibilities. The meeting was cordial. The beautifully-furnished, magnificent castle, which is situated in a dense forest, really looks like a fortress on a mountain. The light of faith shines within it. They have a private chapel. Taking a walk with the family, they paused for prayer in front of a statue of Our Lady, situated in a natural grotto, and then all joined in singing the song "Gospa, majka moja, Kraljica mira" (Mother of God, my Mother, Queen of Peace) in Croatian. It was a great surprise to be able to sing in Croatian in this house. It is wonderful to see how Our Lady succeeded to find people over the entire world who love Her and follow Her. Princess Maria told Fr. Slavko: "Medjugorje is for me like oxygen, which makes it possible for me to breathe". Although she was there in July, she is planning to return with her children at the end of October. Prince Henry will not be able to come, as he has to represent his father in state matters. Maria, who is President of the Association for Handicapped, promised to donate a special car for handicapped children, for whom a day-care center has been opened in the 'Majcino Selo' (Mothers' Village) in Bijakovici.

That afternoon the program continued in the parish church in Gilsdorf, which was filled to burst. The program included the prayer of the rosary, adoration of the most holy sacrament, the prayer for healing, celebration of holy mass and the veneration of the holy cross. Everything was spoken and sung in two languages - german and french. The joy and peace emanating after the prayers and songs were obvious.

Fr. Slavko spent the evening with Robert and Dorothee Holm, who converted from Protestantism, and are now tirelessly spreading the messages of Our Lady. They publish a monthly pamphlet with a ciculation of 25.0000. Among its readers are many benefactors who continuously help in many projects in Croatia and BiH. They also help the "Majcino Selo" and their donations made it possible to build a house for needy children.

Again, after these prayer meetings the conclusion is the same: Everywhere, Mary, the Queen of Peace, has kindled the light of faith, love and hope in many hearts, but especially the spirit of prayer.

THE INVALIDS OF THE WAR

From October 6^th to 10^th, the invalids of the war from the Republic of Croatia and Bosnia-Hercegovina took part in sports competitions in Mostar and Medjugorje. By participating in the competitions, about 600 participants gave each other hope and demonstrated that there is a way also for invalids. During these difficult years during and after the war - which are behind us now, thank God! - we experienced how much light Medjugorje has brought to those who one way or the other became victims of the war. We realized that this is a reality on October 7^th, the day of the Queen of the Rosary - when the invalids made a pilgrimage to Medjugorje. Holy mass was celebrated by the parish priest, Father Ivan Landeka, who in his homily called to sacrifice and trust in God. And Mary is also here who grants special gifts to those who come to Her.

Through our prayer we can also accompany these people who helped in a selfless way to make our freedom and our existence a reality.

THE 7^th MEETING OF THE LEADERS OF THE CENTERS FOR PEACE AND THE MEDJUGORJE PRAYER GROUPS

In the last Press Bulletin we did not bring the curriculum vitae of one of the lecturers, Fr. Sabino Palumbieri.

Fr. Sabino Palumbieri - born in 1934 in Lavello (Potenza). He is a member of the order of the Salesian Fathers. He was ordained a priest in 1961. He studied philosophy and theology and obtained a doctor's degree in anthropology. At present he is a professor at the Papal University of the Salesians (UPS). He is a journalist and writes numerous essays from an anthropological viewpoint on the cause and meaning of the events of our time. He founded the society "TR-2000" (Witnesses of the Resurrection for the Jubilee 2000) and a national movement with international cultural affiliations which organizes humanitarian-Christian activities. In addition, he is the organizer of "Via Lucis" (Way of Light), a new form of piety of the people, which is spreading throughout the world.

At the meeting in Neum, he will give a lecture on the theme: "The Position of Christianity in Modern Civilization".

THE RADIO STATION "MIR" MEDJUGORJE LIVE ON INTERNET

On October 4^th, the feast of St. Francis, we started to operate with a strong server and are now able to transmit the signals of our radio station "Mir" live. The server was supplied by Avacom from Mostar and they helped with its installation. Ing. Stipe avar, our web-master until now, will be responsible for its functioning and contents.

The installation of the new server has enhanced the quality of our work. We are now not only able to transmit live the daily rosary and holy mass from the St. James Church in Medjugorje but will also be able to send videos from Santuary of the Queen of Peace from Medjugorje. Until that time, we will bring video material on our Internet-pages on special events in Medjugorje, as well as documentaries about happenings in the parish.

The signal of our radio station is on the web-pages (www.medjugorje.hr) in the section Audio-and Video-Documentation. Should we hear of any difficulties in getting the server connected with Internet in the preliminary stages, we will immediately try to rectify the situation.

This work requires mental work as well as material means. We thank everyone in advance who will be able to help us in one way or the other to spread the messages of the Queen of Peace.

ROBOX IS BEING ABOLISHED

One can easily say that Internet has become part of our daily life. We have also noticed this as the number of people who still use robofax has been diminishing. This is why we have decided to put still more emphasis on the distribution of information about the Sanctuary of the Queen of Peace on Internet.

As a result, robofax will be abolished as of December 31, 1999. There are no good reasons to justify its continuation. We herewith ask all those who still use the robofax to get connected to Internet or to ask someone who has access to Internet to supply them from time to time with certain information. This is also more economical than the robofax.

We hope that you will support us in this endeavor, as it is our wish to use the time for spreading the messages of the Queen of Peace as rationally as possible.

The feast of the Exaltation of the Cross has already been celebrated solemnly in the parish of Medjugorje for decades. The cross, raised above Medjugorje in 1933 for the anniversary of Redemption by Our Lord, once a year gathered a large number of parishioners and a smaller number of pilgrims. But since 1981 the Holy Mass on Cross Mountain gathers tens of thousands of pilgrims from the whole world and a large number of parishioners and pilgrims from Bosnia-Hercegovina and Croatia. According to the testimony of the visionaries, Our Lady once appeared to them with a cross. That apparition became one of the most impressive and most important.

To better understand the meaning of the cross we have to remember that the Risen One showed himself to His disciples with the wounds He had on the cross. And, the disciples did not understand them as wounds that cause fear, but rather wounds that liberate. True there was initial fear, but just as everything about the risen Jesus was liberating, so also were the wounds of His cross liberating. Therefore, we Christians at this time are not allowed to look at the cross in any different way, or consider the cross unpleasant and difficult. The cross is something much more and if we would not see much more in the cross than that, then we are in danger of becoming enemies of the Lord's cross. How shall we announce the greatness of the cross, if we ourselves experience it and interpret it incorrectly?

Fr. Ivan Landeka

N E W S

CELEBRATING THE FEAST OF THE EXALTATION OF THE CROSS

The feast of the Exaltation of the Cross was also celebrated solemnly this year September 12th on Cross Mountain. In the presence of tens of thousands of pilgrims the Holy Mass was celebrated with 80 concelebrants by Fr. Stanko Dodig, Guardian of the Capuchin monastery in the parish of Our Lady of Lourdes in Rijeka. Just as every year a river of pilgrims streamed into Medjugorje already during the night. Many of them came on foot for hundreds of kilometers, some also bare footed.

The feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary was solemnly celebrated September 8th - the Birth of Mary. Since already then a large number of the faithful were gathered in Medjugorje, many of them stayed on in Medjugorje for the celebration of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross.

MEDJUGORJE PILGRIMAGE IMPRESSIONS OF BISHOP TADEUSZ WERNO

More and more bishops from various parts of the world are coming to visit Medjugorje. One of them is Msgr. Tadeusz Werno, Bishop of Koszalina, Poland. We gave a short notice about his visit in Press Bulletin #124. After spending some days in Medjugorje, he said this, among other things, about his impressions.

"This year I am celebrating 25 years as a bishop. It is my silver jubilee. I am here for the first time by persuasion of the pastor of Podstrzela in Northern Poland, who is profoundly moved by the spirit of Medjugorje. Once when we were talking, he convinced me that I must come to Medjugorje and that gave me the idea to be disposed. That is how I came.

The experience of the people coming to Medjugorje affirms that this place is a place of special grace. Many convert and return to the path of truth. I admit that I personally pray the rosary, but I get tired already after the first part. Here perhaps I was able for the first time to pray all three parts of the rosary. People pray it in different languages but that doesn't tire me at all. It is even nice to listen to. I saw that many go to confession, return to Holy Mass, to Holy Communion, to union with God who is here amongst us. I am really happy to see that here in Medjugorje the Franciscans, our brothers, lead people to Jesus through Our Lady. I am very grateful to them. I especially like the devotion of the Way of the Cross on Cross Mountain. It was something very beautiful. I also met one of the visionaries and we conversed with her. I was also at the community of Sister Elvira, who is helping young men with the problem of addiction. That is really a wonderful fruit of the Medjugorje events. In addition to that, yesterday I was observing the people during Holy Mass. Young men, young ladies, adult men, children - are all praying, kneeling for hours and going to confession. That is what we need the most. I believe in Jesus and I do not need the apparitions in Lourdes or in Fatima or in Medjugorje, but I do need the food to which the apparitions are inviting us and to which they lead us. Here the Holy Mass is proclaimed as the center of life. What Jesus Christ said has to be told, "Receive the Spirit of God, the Spirit of truth, the Spirit of love, be my witnesses in all parts of the world, in the family, on the street, in the school, everywhere. Have the courage to make the sign of the cross, rejoice and be glad."

And finally, I want you Franciscans to persevere in this magnificent task, to continue being instruments in the hands of God. I am confident that the present Pope blesses your service in Medjugorje, that he thinks of you in his heart because he loves Our Lady so much. May God through Mary's intercession bless you all together with all the pilgrims. You must persevere. This is magnificent."

MISSIONARY TRAVEL OF FR. SLAVKO BARBARIC

At the invitation of Medjugorje pilgrims, from August 28th till September 3rd Fr. Slavko Barbaric visited England. He also gave his impressions for the Press Bulletin which we convey here in full.

"The fire of the spirit of prayer and love for Our Lady Queen of Peace, which she herself has ignited in so many hearts is being conveyed and continues to burn, to illumine and to warm the hearts of pilgrims even when they return home. Therefore already now it can be said that centers of prayer are shining and giving warmth throughout the whole world and that the Church is being enlivened. Individuals, families and prayer groups are tirelessly continuing to live and to spread Our Lady's messages. Pilgrims are endeavoring to keep in touch with Medjugorje and for that purpose organize pilgrimages and come back again bringing new pilgrims, but likewise with the same zeal maintain interpersonal contacts and organize days of prayer, also even on the national level.

It is that way in England but also in other places. The idea that formed in the heart of Bernard Ellis, a convert from Judaism, a great friend of Medjugorje, and of the Croatian people during the war, continues to be alive and to grow. That is, eight years ago at the height of the war he suggested that a day of prayer be organized in England for all the pilgrims and the Medjugorje Network accepted. Everyone agreed that the best day for that is the "bank holiday" which is observed on the last Monday of August. They decided accordingly and they were proven to be right. Last year it was in Wintershall, and this year in Walsingham, one of the oldest shrines of Our Lady in England. In addition to that principal celebration, smaller meetings are also organized. This year the program looked like this:

On Saturday August 28th there was an evening program in the parish of St. Margaret in London. The young pastor Fr. Alexander Sherbrooke has been to Medjugorje ten times. He made his first pilgrimage while he was still a seminarian, and it made a deep impression on him and helped him in his further development toward the priesthood. Taking over a parish community he imbued it with the spirit of prayer that he caught in Medjugorje. Among other things he organized daily adoration in the parish from 11:00 AM till 10:00 PM. He also has more than a hundred people committed to come for an hour of adoration once a week. Many others come from time to time. The number of adorers is growing. The pastor also testifies to the great spiritual fruits in the parish. About 500 faithful came to the evening program that lasted four hours, everything just as in Medjugorje. After the program followed meetings with acquaintances and groups. All gladly witnessed about their experiences in Medjugorje and through Medjugorje.

On Sunday August 29th I participated in the meeting of "Youth 2000" as it is called. For a full five days about 1000 were together. In the area around the shrine in Walsingham they set up tents. Food was organized for everyone. There were lectures, prayers, and continuous adoration. The idea was born in Medjugorje and already for years is realized in connection with the Medjugorje pilgrims' prayer day. I met many familiar faces beaming with happiness and peace. Before noon that day Sister Elvira also spoke. As always she enthused everyone with her testimony. Again the same evening program with an hour of adoration as in Medjugorje.

On Monday August 30th, "bank holiday": already before noon a multitude of pilgrims from all over England began to stream in. Again everything was as in Medjugorje. At 1:00 PM we began with the rosary, followed by a talk, Holy Mass and Eucharistic adoration. The shrine director, Fr. Alan Williams himself a Medjugorje pilgrim, wholeheartedly opened up the entire area of the shrine. He briefly spoke about the meaning of Walsingham and expressed the wish that the spirit of prayer that Our Lady stirred up in Medjugorje be conveyed again also to this shrine and he invited everyone to come again also next year. Thirty priests concelebrated at the celebration of Mass and zealously heard confessions all afternoon. For the youth who participated in the five-day meeting, this was the final program. They especially enhanced the celebration of mass and adoration with their singing. In this shrine, which has its own bloody history already from the 16th century due to the conflict between Catholics and Anglicans, there is also an Anglican chapel to which Anglican pilgrims come. After the solemn blessing with the Blessed Sacrament the pilgrims went back to their cities and their homes. Many said, "See you in Medjugorje and here again next year!" After the program I moved on toward the north.

On Tuesday August 31st, I conducted a one day renewal for priests in the vicinity of Birmingham at Merryvale Institute, familiar to Cardinal Newman. Thirty priests were gathered. Among them were some Anglican pastors and one who with his family has entered the Catholic church and is now working as a catechist in a school. The meeting was very interesting. After I listened to their experiences with Medjugorje and the prayer groups in their parishes, I tried to tell them what an important role the priest has in this prayer movement. Both individuals and prayer groups must have sure spiritual guidance. And only a priest can secure that. All the priests confirmed that they understood Medjugorje the best from hearing the confessions of pilgrims. They are prepared to continue and to support all positive experiences. Listening to the experiences of the Anglican pastors it was interesting to find out that some of them with their faithful who have made pilgrimage to Medjugorje have also started prayer groups. That evening I had a program at St. Catherine Church in Birmingham. The church was overflowing. Everything was again as in Medjugorje. The pastor admitted that this kind of prayer atmosphere is created only when those come who have been to Medjugorje.

On Wednesday September 1st, I was in Manchester. In the early afternoon I met with the pastor and some priests from surrounding parishes. Each one of them sees in Medjugorje a new opportunity for the renewal of his own parish community. That evening there was the prayer program in a full church. Again the same atmosphere. In Manchester there is a Medjugorje Center already for thirteen years led by Tony Hickey. He often organizes pilgrimages and is very active. Right up to this meeting his pastor never wanted nor permitted anything to be organized in his parish. Then came a change of pastors. The new pastor had been the personal secretary for the bishop for 18 years. As soon as he took over the parish he threw the doors wide open to Medjugorje pilgrims. As secretary he got to know many fruits of Medjugorje and does not wish his parish community be left on the sidelines. Before the evening program the pastor wanted me to meet one of his 70-year old lady parishioners who is a fierce fan of Manchester United. When I greeted her she immediately began to tell how Croatia is coming September 14th and that it will be tough for them because her boys are the best. With a nice smile she promised that she will also root a little for Croatia because since she got acquainted with Medjugorje she likes all Croats.

On Thursday September 2nd, I started out early for Cardiff, the main city in Wales on the western coast. We drove steadily four hours in order to arrive by noon to take part live in a BBC program. The conversation about the Medjugorje events lasted about a half hour and will be broadcast again. Here also the position of the bishop has changed and therefore this kind of program was organized in this part of England for the first time. In the early afternoon there was a talk in the parish hall at which about 200 faithful were present. Since this was the first time, quite a few priests came and again some Anglican pastors among them. That evening a program was held in St. Peter Church. There was a beautiful atmosphere of prayer. Many expressed the desire to come as pilgrims to Medjugorje.

On Friday, September 3rd, I went early to London on the train. About 10:30 the Anglican Pastor Rodney, who had spent three months of his annual holiday in Medjugorje, met me at the station. He also started a prayer group in his parish community. He says that he will come again and try to organize a pilgrimage from his parish and thinks that the prayer day in Walsingham has to become ecumenical and next year he will organize his parish and invite others to be included. We spent some pleasant hours in a male Anglican monastic community that was founded in 1938. They live a life of strict observance, of much prayer and work. They all know about Medjugorje and follow the messages but they cannot come because the community is a strict cloistered type.

Full of impressions from the different meetings which are becoming more and more ecumenical, I went to the airport and traveled back to Medjugorje."

SCHEDULE CHANGE FOR THE EVENING PROGRAM

We announce to all pilgrim groups and individuals who come on pilgrimage to Medjugorje that, beginning Monday September 13th, the daily evening program in the church begins at 5 PM till 8 PM (5 PM rosary, 6 PM Holy Mass, blessing prayers and third part of the rosary).

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on Wednesday and Saturday is from 9 PM - 10 PM and on Thursday immediately after the evening mass. Adoration and prayer before the Crucifix is every Friday in the church after the evening mass. Every Sunday at 3 PM the Peace Rosary is prayed on Apparition Hill and the Way of the Cross on Cross Mountain at the same time each Friday. Confessions are heard every evening at least one hour before the prayer program starts.

All masses for different language groups take in the morning on the basis of previous reservation.

All announcements in connection with the prayer program in the shrine of the Queen of Peace in Medjugorje as well as other announcements can be obtained from the information office at 00387-88-651-988 from 8 AM till 5 PM. We request all organizers of pilgrim groups upon their arrival in Medjugorje to inform their pilgrims about the possibility of obtaining needed information at the Information Office that is located in front of the parish house and not at the parish office.

In her message of August 25th Our Lady returns to the theme of the Creator and creation. We have heard about that before in her messages and it is not accidental that Our Lady directs us to know the Creator, the beauty of nature and the harmony of creation. The created world is a part of God's revelation in time and space. Therefore in man's meditation and practice of faith it has an altogether definite place assigned to it. A very great part of mankind today is practically cut off from the environment of nature. This has disturbed the understanding of nature which has become a chance subject. We take it as a partner only for holiday and relaxation. A more confused and hypocritical relationship toward nature calls existence into question. To discover God the Creator is the beginning of a new heart and a new consciousness that our rights over the created world are limited.

Fr. Ivan Landeka

NUMBER OF COMMUNIONS AND CONCELEBRATIONS

During August in the shrine of the Queen of Peace in Medjugorje 176,000 Holy Communions were distributed and there were 3,980 concelebrations at Holy Mass by priests from home and abroad, that is 128 priests daily.

We will enumerate some of the countries from which pilgrims came to visit Medjugorje during August: Italy, USA, Slovenia, Montenegro, Ireland, Lebanon, Poland, Canada, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic, France, Austria, Portugal, Korea, England, Romania and, of course, Croatia.

VISIT OF AN ANGLICAN BISHOP

The Anglican bishop, Michael Marshall from England was in Medjugorje on a private visit from August 30th to September 3rd.

FRANCESCO COSSIGA IN MEDJUGORJE

The former head of state of the Republic of Italy and life-long senator in the Italian Parliament, Mr. Francesco Cossiga, visited Medjugorje on August 29th. This honored guest and, above all, great Catholic was awaited in front of the parish office by the Medjugorje pastor, Fr. Ivan Landeka, the mayor of Citluk, Mr. Jure Dzida, officers of United Nations units stationed in Bosnia-Hercegovina, and the numerous Italian pilgrims who happened to be in Medjugorje that day.

Francesco Cossiga stayed on for hearty and friendly conversation with the parish personnel. Present for the conversation were members of his escort and newsmen. In his welcoming remarks the Medjugorje pastor, Fr. Ivan Landeka, among other things said that: "... after the civil war in Bosnia-Hercegovina only half of the Catholics remained, expressing gratitude to the Italian pilgrims who to a great degree have built the Medjugorje shrine and been among the first to come to Medjugorje, giving it support in the most difficult moments. The times in which this shrine was born were difficult. The people were subject to repression and those who came from abroad, and especially Italians among them, were a real stronghold of support."

Responding to his welcome, Francesco Cossiga announced that he came to Medjugorje for reasons of faith and said, "It is fortunate that in the modern world a place exists where people can pray. It is a wonder how you have preserved this place of prayer amid the storm that struck Hercegovina. I followed these events carefully and am especially connected to the Croatian people. I came to the Republic of Croatia while the war was still going on so I could give recognition to it. I have come back many times. Croatia has thanked me with honors and the issuing of a diplomatic passport. Thank you for this reception."

Francesco Cossiga was present at the Holy Mass for the Italian faithful led by Fr. Stjepan Krasic, professor at the Dominican University in Rome.

"DAYS FOR RELIGIOUS IN BOSNIA-HERCEGOVINA"

At the Humac Franciscan monastery of St. Anthony in Ljubuski the second annual "Days for Religious in Bosnia-Hercegovina" were held on August 26-27th with the theme "Religious Life - Sign of Holiness and Life of the Church." The seminar was attended by 200 men and women religious.

The first day's first lecture was given by professor Dr. Fr. Ivan Sarcevic of the Sarajevo Franciscan Theology School on the theme "Encounter with the Father: Conversion without mercy - Mercy without conversion." The second lecture was on the theme: "Healing of Memories" held by Dr. Tomislav Ivancic who presided at the Eucharistic celebration.

The second day's meeting began with prayer and a greeting by Fr. Peter Andjelovic, Provincial of the Bosnian Franciscan Province, and lecture by the Provincial of the Franciscan Hercegovina Province, Dr. Fr. Tomislav Pervan on the theme: "Mary - Co-worker of God." The concelebrated mass on the last day was presided at by the local ordinary, Bishop Ratko Peric who in his sermon stressed how persons in the consecrated state of life must in a special way be persons of light.

The men and women religious of the second "Days for Religious" addressed a letter of greetings to the Vrhbosnian Archbishop, His Eminence Cardinal Vinko Puljic.

The time in which we live is not merely characterized by the fact of transitoriness. Transience is already an old theme to which nothing special can be added. In this time characterized by speed of change and multitude of news, another question arises, the question about what is l a s t i n g, about what is not subject to change. No matter how much we have become used to the new, we look for that which has stability and for something with which we can be forever connected.

As Christians we cannot accept that everything which begins in time also has its end in time. From that aspect we do not obtain our stability. We have celebrated the feast of Mary's Assumption (body and soul assumed into Heaven). That means then that the Kingdom of God is non-transient and stable. Among those who have lived it body and soul, Mary has a special place. For us who believe it, the task is the same as what Mary lived - to live it soul and body.

Fr. Ivan Landeka

N E W S

FEAST OF ASSUMPTION CELEBRATED

On the feast of the Assumption, August 15th, about 20 thousand pilgrims from every continent visited the parish of Medjugorje. Among them should be mentioned by all means the great number of Croatian pilgrims who came bare-foot on pilgrimage to Mary, Queen of Peace, from the various parts of our homeland. The feast itself was preceded by a novena of prayer during which at the evening prayer program a great number of the faithful gathered for the sacrament of reconciliation. Due to the variety of language groups Holy Masses during the day were celebrated in nine languages. The Rosary was prayed on Apparition Hill in the afternoon. And beside those language differences the pilgrims were connected by prayer and petitions addressed to Mary, first of all, in prayer for the peace we need so much. The solemn evening mass along with 68 concelebrants was celebrated by Fr. Gabriel Mioc who in his inspirational sermon called on the assembled faithful to follow the example of Mary, the Mother of God in their own life, first of all by unbounded confidence in and surrender to the will of God.

ARCHBISHOP OF SEOUL IN MEDJUGORJE

Archbishop Paul Kim Tchang-Ryeol, of Seoul, South Korea, visited Medjugorje from August 6 - 10, 1999 with three priests from his archdiocese (Rhee Dae Won, Chang Daee Ik and Chang Keung Sun). Following the thousands of Koreans who come on pilgrimage every year to the Queen of Peace, he came to get acquainted with this place of pilgrimage and the prayer and liturgical life of the pilgrims. As a pilgrim he prayed especially for his Church and the elimination of tensions between Koreans who are divided into two states.

POLISH BISHOP IN MEDJUGORJE

In the first part of August Msgr. Tadeusz Werno, Bishop of Koszalina, Poland was here on a private visit to Medjugorje.

We will publish his impressions in the next number of the Press Bulletin.

SEMINAR ON INNER HEALING

This year also from August 16 - 21, a seminar on inner healing was held in Medjugorje. About 200 faithful from Southern Croatia and central Bosnia-Hercegovina participated in the seminar which was aimed in a special way at people having family difficulties. The seminar on inner healing was conducted by Fr. James Manjrighal and Sr. Margarita Valappila from India. The impressions of all those who spent those five days in prayer and mediation were powerful. Therefore we believe that also in future years there will be an opportunity to meet in Medjugorje for such a seminar.

SEMINAR FOR GUIDES

Due to the interest of so many who would like to work as guides in the shrine of the Queen of Peace in Medjugorje, the Association of Pilgrim Guides in the parish of Medjugorje is organizing an educational seminar from August 23 - 27, 1999. After the seminar has been conducted, examinations will be held. All those who finish the seminar successfully acquire the possibility of membership in the Association of Pilgrim Guides, and the possibility thereby of working with pilgrim groups. All those, namely, who wish to work as guides in the shrine have to be known to have acquired sufficient knowledge to be able to provide reliable information to the pilgrims with whom they will work in the future.

The young applicants will listen to lectures on five subjects: The Messages of Holy Scripture (Fr. Miljenko Stojic), The Messages of Christianity (Fr. Milan Loncar), History of the Church in Croatia (Fr. Ivan Maric), The Messages of Our Lady (Fr. Slavko Barbaric) and Tourism and Pilgrimage in the Medjugorje Events(Maria Dugandzic).

We take this opportunity to request all those who lead groups to Medjugorje to hire a local guide who can help them a great deal during their stay in Medjugorje and, what is most important, are people who are prepared and trained to provide trustworthy information who do their job in cooperation with the Information Center according to the Parish office of Medjugorje.

The Second Vatican Council reflected on the meaning and role of the Church that is seeking and finding its place amid new circumstances. In the Church itself and all around it great changes have and are taking place. The Church, therefore, offers itself to the new world as a correspondent, and the Church expresses the most understandable description of herself in the sentence that she is: "The Pilgrim People of God passing through dangers and afflictions." This impression becomes understandable to the world that surrounds her. That way she does not isolate herself from the changes and difficulties of the times, but places her own mission at the service of man and the civilization of this moment.

Jesus Christ is the first fellow-traveler and the only mediator of that kind of Church. His and our Mother Mary whose fellow-traveling with the Church never ceases, who never tires of traveling with the Church through time, remain the sign of his staying. She is the road sign and direction sign of Christian living. She shows herself as such in the events in the parish of Medjugorje.

Fr. Ivan Landeka

N E W S

18TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF OUR LADY'S APPARITIONS

Throughout the last 18 years our Lady's presence in the parish of Medjugorje has spread to the world through the pilgrims. In spite of the events that struck our homeland, Our Lady's message of peace has reached even the most distant places in the world and made of Medjugorje a world parish. Proof of that is the presence of the more than 70,000 faithful who visited here for the 18th anniversary of Our Lady's apparitions in the parish of Medjugorje. To enumerate the lands from which the faithful came on pilgrimage to the Queen of Peace is practically impossible. We will announce only those with the most numerous groups: Germany, Italy, Canada, Reunion, Ireland, Belgium, Slovenia, Portugal, USA, France, Singapore, Argentina, Slovakia, Hungary, England, Holland, Poland, Korea, Switzerland, Czech Republic, and, of course, Croatia. Among them the most numerous group was a group of about 1,000 Polish pilgrims accompanied by a large number of priests. Exceptional also were the many Croatian pilgrims of which many came barefooted to Medjugorje to pray for peace to Mary, Queen of Peace.

Because of the difference of language groups Holy Masses in the mornings of June 24 - 25 were celebrated in sixteen languages. During the two days of June 24 - 25, 50,000 Holy Communions were distributed.

The evening Holy mass on the vigil of the anniversary June 24th, was led by Fr. Slavko Barbaric with 150 priests concelebrating. About 15,000 faithful were present at the Holy Mass.

For the anniversary itself about 30,000 faithful participated in the Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. Ivan Bradvica with 160 priests from twenty countries concelebrating.

For the 18th anniversary two ecclesiastical dignitaries were present on a private visit: the retired Archbishop of Split-Makarska, Frane Franic and the Apostolic Nuncio to Slovenia, Archbishop Farhat Edmond.

On June 25th, the vigil of the 18th anniversary of Our Lady's apparitions, the eighth consecutive "Peace March" was held. It began at 6:00 A.M. with a prayer and blessing of the pilgrims in front of the Franciscan Monastery in Humac. About 3,000 pilgrims then set out for Medjugorje. Priests from several countries carried the Blessed Sacrament and the "Peace March" was co-directed by Fr. Slavko Barbaric and Fr. Branko Rados. Upon arrival in Medjugorje the pilgrims assembled in front of the church for a short prayer in common. The "Peace March" is a concept that was born in the hearts of Medjugorje pilgrims and friends of Medjugorje during the fiercest days of the war in 1992. That prayerful march of 13 kilometers is a response to the lack of peace, violence and hatred, and an impulse toward authentic peace and reconciliation.

THE REGULAR APPARITION OF OUR LADY TO VISIONARY IVANKA

The visionary Ivanka Ivankovic Elez had her regular annual apparition on June 25, 1999. According to the testimony of the visionaries themselves, Vicka, Maria and Ivan have daily apparitions, while Mirjana, Ivanka and Jakov have the apparitions once a year.

On the occasion of her last daily apparition on May 7, 1985, Our Lady, after confiding the 10th secret to her, told Ivanka that for the course of her entire life she will have an apparition once a year and that it would be on the anniversary of the apparitions. And thus it was also this year. Ivanka had the apparition which lasted 7 - 8 minutes in her own family home. Present for the apparition were only Ivanka's family, husband and three children.

After the apparition Ivanka said that during the apparition she prayed for the parish and families and she recommended all in her prayer. Our Lady gave the following message:

"Dear children, thank my Son for all the graces that he has given you. Pray for peace, pray for peace, pray for peace!"

THE MALTESE ORDER IN MEDJUGORJE

Last year for five months the Maltese Order from Germany undertook the medical care of pilgrims who need medical assistance. During that period about 2,000 people sought their help. This year, however, they are staying for six months during which time they will also hold two courses: a course of first aid and a course on the care of the sick and elderly.

We take this opportunity to inform all pilgrims, who during their stay in Medjugorje will need medical assistance, that they can obtain it from the personnel of the Maltese Order in front of the Church where the sign reads "MALTESER" from 9:00 - 12 noon and from 5:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M.

TV STATION IN MEDJUGORJE

The Irish National TV stayed this year in Medjugorje from June 9 - 16th. For one week through the eye of the camera they made recordings of the events in Medjugorje. It will be a new incentive for the Irish faithful who for all these years have been among the most numerous pilgrim groups.

The Croatian national TV house also stayed in Medjugorje from June 14 - 18th. Already for several months they have been preparing a documentary film on the events in the parish of Medjugorje that will be presented to the Croatian public.

"FRAMA" YOUTH IN MEDJUGORJE

On June 5th 120 members of the Franciscan Youth Club "FRAMA" from erin, itluk and Humac, parishes all of which share boundaries with the parish of Medjugorje, along with the FRAMA members of Medjugorje, led the Rosary with songs and prayers during the evening prayer program. They also enriched the evening mass celebration with their musical expression. Since the novena in honor of St. Anthony of Padua was in progress, on the day after their visit to Medjugorje they altogether made pilgrimage on foot to the votive shrine of St. Anthony in Humac.

Every youth group leader is asked to cooperate with the organizers of the Youth activities and to be responsible for the following:

1) to have his group be on time for each of the programs;

2) to make sure that the members of his group behave decently during the entire week of the Youth meeting both at the Sanctuary and outside;

3) to make sure that the members of his group are always dressed decently and appropriately;

4) not to organize any other meetings aside from the set program of the Youth activities;

5) to spend free time with his group;

6) to have the members of his group maintain cleanliness at the Sanctuary and on the mountains and;

7) to make sure that the members of his group do not stay out late at night but return to where they are staying.

8) Each group leader should register with the Information Center on arrival to Medjugorje.

We thank you in advance for your cooperation !

Youth Prayer Meeting Organizers

In the month of May the Church turns to Mary, while still under the strong impressions of the Easter events. The Church thereby does not for a moment lose Jesus Christ from sight, but through Mary tries to get still closer to Him. In his homily on the feast of Mary, Mother of God, January 1, 1987, Pope John Paul II, while speaking of Mary, spoke of her as the MEMORY OF THE CHURCH. We could interpret that expression also as a new title that the Church gives to Mary. Seen from the view of history, theology, and content, that title says a great deal. No one else possesses the same total memory of Jesus from His incarnation to the cross, burial and resurrection as Mary does.

She brings that memory before the Church today just as she has in times past. The month of May is an opportunity for a Christian in faith and decision to accept that memory and to accept Mary as the authentic witness of Jesus' Gospel for this age.

Fr. Ivan Landeka

VISIT OF AN ARCHBISHOP FROM PANAMA

In the last issue of the Press Bulletin we announced that Archbishop Jose Dimas Cedeo from Panama visited Medjugorje. We present here a portion of the conversation that Fr. Slavko Barbaric had with him:

S.B.: In brief tell us about yourself!

J.D.: I am an Archbishop in Panama, Central America. I am President of the Bishops' Conference. Spanish is the language spoken. Panama has about one million inhabitants, and it is interesting that it I the first diocese founded in all of America, and now has eight dioceses. I am 47, and bishop from the foundation of this diocese. The conditions in our Church are good. We still have sufficient vocations and it is especially important that we have many lay movements and active laity who bring a true spirit to the activity of the Church. We have many reasons for hope.

S.B.: What can you say about your stay in Medjugorje?

J.D.: I have come for the first time to Medjugorje. With me came twenty pilgrims. During these days I have seen and experienced a great devotion and zeal in prayer. That is noticed in all pilgrim groups. The readiness for prayer is amazing. The spirit of faith that is felt here in prayer encourages a renewal of faith in the hearts of all who are coming here.

S.B.: Are the fruits of Medjugorje visible in Panama?

J.D.: By all means, thank God. We have a parish community that is led by Fr. Francesco Verar. He often comes to Medjugorje and the church is made completely the same as this church in Medjugorje. Francesco has also founded a community that is called: The Sisters of Mary Queen of Peace. Every evening they also have the same program as here in Medjugorje. They are very active.

S.B.: Is this community already recognized by the Church?

J.D.: Yes. I recognized this community on the diocesan level when I saw what they are doing and how they are living and that their main work is to pray for peace and when I sensed their spirituality.

The community is in existence already for several years. They are having good experiences. And I invited the pastor, who knows them well and when he again confirmed everything to me, I recognized the community precisely on June 25, 1998. And that is exactly also the anniversary of the apparitions. I am fully conscious that this is a fruit of Medjugorje.

FR. RENÉ LAURENTIN IN MEDJUGORJE

The well known French Mariologist, author of numerous books about apparitions of Our Lady in the world, a friend of Medjugorje, visited Medjugorje last week with a group of 100 French pilgrims. During his two day stay in Medjugorje Fr. Laurentin participated in the evening prayer program in the church of St. James and visited Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain. He also gave a lecture on Our Lady's apparitions in Medjugorje.

FR. LEONARD OREC IN ALBANIA AND MACEDONIA

In mid-April Fr. Leonard Orec, director of the humanitarian association "Medjugorje-Mir", went with an Italian humanitarian convoy to visit Albania and Macedonia, the countries in which the greatest number of refugees from Kosovo are placed. In his report Fr. Leonard gives a first hand testimony of how he encountered all the things that happen in humanitarian work that the numerous humanitarian workers from around the world meet up with, who are presently trying to relieve the greatest humanitarian catastrophe of our times. The Albanian and Macedonian Caritas is doing everything to obtain and also to deliver the humanitarian aid to the refugees in time. And they really need everything: food, clothing, shoes, hygienic necessities, and medicines. Fr. Leonard is requested to advise everyone in the world who delivers aid to Albania directly to notify Albanian Caritas at least one week in advance of the address of the receiver, complete details of the contents, the vehicle data, the name of the driver, and the date and place of their border crossing. He also points out that it would be well for a representative of the receiver to meet them at the harbor of Dra. Thereby many inconveniences can be avoided underway and there will be a security that the aid will be delivered to those for whom it is intended.

Our friends and the friends of the Queen of Peace have always known how to recognized brethren in trouble. They have confirmed that now also for the humanitarian catastrophe in Kosovo. We are grateful to all to have help so far and give notice also that all further information about the manner of sending aid can be obtained at the office of "Medjugorje-Mir", tel. 00385 21 361 354; fax 00385 21 342 258.

CELEBRATION OF MOTHERS' DAY

On the eve of Mothers' Day, May 8th the children of the parish of Medjugorje after the evening Holy Mass congratulated their own mothers for that day as well as all the mothers of the world with an appropriate program. For that program the "The Little Doves of Peace" parish childrens' choir, under the direction of Sr. Slavica Kozul, with songs and recitations tried to express all their love and gratitude to the greatest of all loves - a mothers' love. Also participating in the program was the male singing group "Medjugorje". Through the one-hour program the children with selected lyrics and music sang to the mothers. But all those present, the faithful both from home and abroad left the church with the feeling that the deepest and strongest feelings were indeed still left unspoken in the depth of the childrens' heart. After all it is an experience known also to the many who come on pilgrimage to Mother Mary in Medjugorje: they returned to their homes taking also the experience of the Mother's nearness and love which till now no song has ever succeeded to sing. Therefore also this program dedicated to our earthly mothers ended with the thanksgiving hymn to the heavenly Mother Mary - To the Queen of Peace.