The idea for a prayer meeting for young people was born in the heart of a young pilgrim from England at the end of the Marian Year (1988), which he shared with Father Slavko Barbarić. Father Slavko supported this idea and began organizing and leading the festival until his death on November 24, 2000. After many discussions and a good spirit, the first meeting was successfully held. The lectures for the youth were delivered by Herzegovinian Franciscans. The prayer meetings took place in a large green tent, as well as in the cool shade of the little forest next to the church in Međugorje, and on Podbrdo, Križevac, and in the church during the long hours of adoration. The music was led by Liam Lawton, a young and talented priest from Ireland.
When the first festival concluded, it was decided to continue, and thus the second prayer meeting was held, which was more enriching and better prepared. As word of Međugorje spread, so did the news of this festival. It demonstrated the power and widespread appeal of the call for peace and the fact that people enthusiastically accepted it. The festival also showed that young people realize this is not something easily achieved, but a peace that only God gives to those who turn to Him with all their hearts.
This experience made an impact that, with the help of media, continues to be heard today. Many, in fact, after their experience in Međugorje, chose to follow Christ by pursuing a priestly or religious vocation. Along with the sacrament of confession, vocations are one of the most beautiful fruits of Međugorje. A young person loves a challenge, and Christ’s call to radical discipleship is just that.
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