Vivian – Chicago, Illinois

This is my first time in Medjugorje. 

A couple years ago my aunt told me about Medjugorje. She showed me all the messages online, and I fell in love. I’ve been wanting to come.

I grew up Christian Orthodox. I’m Assyrian. We speak Aramaic, the language Jesus spoke. Ever since I went to college, I went to a Catholic school, I’ve been going to Catholic Mass. I would consider myself Catholic. 

We grew up just praying to Jesus Himself. We grew up not doing confession. The first time I ever did confession was a month ago. It was amazing. I started crying. You feel so cleansed. I felt fresh. Things that I had anxiety about, I don’t even think about them anymore. 

I love Jesus Christ and I love Mary so much. Mary brought me so much closer to Her Son. I live by the Rosary, and any time I’ve ever called on Her, She’s always answered me.

I’m very devoted to the Rosary. The Virgin Mary is so close to me. I consider Her a mother and a best friend. She always guides me. I wanted to be as close as possible to Her. This is where She’s at so this is where I’m going to come.

I came here by myself. I’ve never traveled out of the States before. I am usually such a nervous wreck about everything, but I felt peace about coming here. My parents were so stressed out because they’re very overprotective even though I’m 26. I was determined that I wanted to come. It was a great decision. I feel so blessed to be here.

Climbing Apparition Hill was so beautiful. Going to Mass and being in that church knowing that She’s appeared there to the visionaries is so touching. I love the Mass. I love the church.

Walking through these fields and praying the Rosary, I feel so blessed. I feel so connected to Her. I came here to say, “Thank you for protecting me and my family and for always blessing me. I love you. Continue being with me please.”