Father Bill

I grew up loving Our Blessed Mother under the title of Our Lady of La Salette. This was introduced to me when I entered the seminary of the Missionaries of Our Lady of La Salette at the age of 13.

La Salette occurred in 1846 when Our Lady appeared to two children. Her message was basically the message of a mother that is echoed over here. That is, “Be reconciled.”

What impresses me here is the penitential and compassionate aspect of the ministry, the focus on the sacrament of Reconciliation as well as on the Eucharist. 

It’s the first time I’ve come to Medjugorje after having visited many Marian shrines in different parts of the world, but mostly in Europe. I believe that Mary is truly present here. You can feel Her presence. 

It’s a special shrine. It’s a place where people can truly be at home with the Lord with the life of the Church.

This is a great place for finding peace. I think that’s a proper name that is given to Our Blessed Mother, Queen of Peace. 

I feel very much at home. I’m enjoying my days here, days when I can be with a group of pilgrims that I’m leading or just being alone in prayer, in silence, in a beautiful and natural place for prayer. Everything here is very conducive to making one feel at home in God’s presence, in Mary’s presence. It’s a holy place.

Even though the Church is taking a long time to give its firm and final approval, it is encouraging people to come here. 

I thank God for the blessings He’s given me over the past few days, as well as the blessings He’s given my fellow pilgrims.