Religion Is When You Have Promised God to Be Dedicated to Him, Committed to God, Filled with Trust and Faith Until the End Comes, but Never Without Love in You;

September 2017 Issue 38 ISSN 1363 9358 MAGAZINE

- tell Me, what is religion? religion is when you have promised God to be dedicated to Him, committed to God, filled with trust and faith until the end comes, but never without love in you;

A Newly Published Message from Jesus August 10, 2015

1 TRUE LIFE IN GOD TRUE LIFE IN GOD September 2017 · ISSUE 38 · ISSN 1363 9358 I invite all readers to consider the importance God CONTENTS places upon the transmission of His living Word contained in the TLIG messages. In recent months this living Word was successfully proclaimed in Asia, including several communist countries. The Imprimatur and Nihil Obstat...... 3 living message proclaimed for these End Times was no less inspiring than the spirit of zeal and Unity According to the Second Vatican Council sacrifice accompanying its proclamation. If in the New Testament the Lord Jesus Christ reassured and Vassula Rydén...... 4 his apostles of the signs that were to accompany their apostolic mission (Mk. 16:17-19), likewise Testimony - Benjamin Fenlon ...... 14 he reassures us of certain heavenly signs that are Beth Myriam Surkhet, Neapl ...... 16 to accompany the TLIG mission. Therefore in these pages you will encounter the TLIG message AATLIG 10th Annual Ecumenical Retreat ...... 17 gently yet boldly proclaimed and accompanied by such signs as healings, conversions and miracles. Invitation to be One with Christ...... 18

Requiring no introduction are the Catholic Church’s Vietnam Report ...... 20 official seals of approval appended to the TLIG messages, i.e., the Imprimatur and Nihil Obstat China Report ...... 28 that constitute for all Catholics an “approval” and a declaration of “a moral guarantee” that the TLIG Australia Report ...... 35 message “contains nothing contrary to the Church’s Newly Published Message from Jesus...... 39 authentic magisterium on faith or morals.”

Rev. Joseph L. Iannuzzi, STD, Ph.D.

About the Messages of True Life in God Messages are profoundly spiritual and are written in a clear and direct language. We are invited to enter into conversation True Life in God with God substituting Vassula’s name in these texts for our own. Vassula was born in Egypt of Greek Once having done that we are gently led into the mysteries of the parents on 18 January 1942. She is married Triune God and begin to grow in the Knowledge of God. Through and has two grown-up boys. Although the bounty of the Holy Spirit acting in us (Second Pentecost) we then baptised into the Greek Orthodox Church begin to grow in God’s Love, Peace and Unity. Jesus’ prayer to the she rarely thought of God until 1985 when Father (John 17;21) “may they be one in Us, as You are in Me and I she began to receive Divine Messages. am in You, so that the world may believe it was You who sent Me;” These have been named, by Jesus Himself, will then be accomplished. Jesus explains about this prayer on 10 True Life in God. They have now been December 2001: “My words intonated were meant that the whole of translated into over 40 languages and all the work has been done by creation must be affected into a spiritual unity not a unity by a signed volunteers; Vassula receives no royalties for any books published. treaty; to fulfil My Words the churches must seek first humility and love, graces that can be obtained through the Holy Spirit and through In these Prophetic Messages (some of the prophecies have already a great repentance;” been fulfilled) God is calling the whole of His creation to return to Love while asking Christians to unify His Body, His Church In the latest Messages published under the title of Odes of the Holy ( Trinity, the Holy Trinity summarize the purpose of these Divine “Orthodox! Catholics! Protestants! You all belong to Me! You are all Messages: to rediscover the revealed Truth and to enter into the spiritual One in My Eyes!”). Vassula’s mission is to go out and proclaim the Truth. She has now visited over 70 countries and has spoken in over espousal with God, the wedding feast of Apocalypse Chapter 21. In 900 meetings, some with audiences as large as 100,000 people. that union of creature with God, God’s Will will be done on earth as it is in Heaven, for we will find true Life, the life in God and with God.

2 TRUE LIFE IN GOD Imprimatur and Nihil Obstat Unity According to the Second Vatican Council and Vassula Rydén by Fr. Dr. Michael Kaszowski r. Kaszowski has taught dogmatic theology at The Catholic Church and other churches the Archdiocesan Seminary of Katowice, Poland Ffor the past 20 years. Vassula Rydén, the bearer of We might also say, in line with the Second Vatican True Life in God, is called the apostle of unity. In Council, that the Catholic Church might be equated effect, her mission to unify the Church of Christ, torn to the largest library; the Orthodox Church as being by schisms, appears as her principal task, as is most a bit smaller, and the other churches as still smaller clearly delineated in the Messages. libraries. However, a short time ago, Vassula Rydén was Similarly, the churches, as is the case with the libraries, reproached for allegedly proclaiming a false are not equal because they do not always possess all ecumenism that is rejected by the Catholic Church. the means of salvation given by Christ. Nonetheless, For this reason, it is worthwhile to compare her the members of all religions are equal in that they are teachings with those of the Second Vatican Council, all persons created by God. It is somewhat similar because the latter lays out the doctrine on unity which with the libraries: although even in the smallest, one must be accepted by all Catholics. can find precious books, the libraries themselves are not equal by reason of the quantity of volumes I. WHERE IS THE TRUE CHURCH TO that each possesses. Nonetheless, the people who BE FOUND? borrow the books from the libraries are all equal from the standpoint of their human dignity. Thus, the The Second Vatican Council, which sought to Council expresses, on the one hand, its conviction accelerate the process of unifying the Church, had that the Church of Christ subsists in its fullness in to first of all resolve a problem which is at the same the Catholic Church. On the other hand, the Council time important and difficult. That is, how to define perceives and appreciates the numerous elements of the relationship between the One Church founded by sanctification and truth which belong uniquely to the Jesus Christ and the many churches which exist today. Church of Christ but are, nonetheless, found in the non-Catholic churches. The Church of Christ and the many churches What comes from Christ and the Holy Spirit sanctifies and saves In order to respond to this difficult situation, the Council avails itself of the notion of the Church of The Council declares that all the elements of Christ which subsists in the Catholic, Orthodox and sanctification and of truth, including those found Protestant Churches. Thus, the Council explains: outside the Catholic Church insofar as they come from Christ and the Holy Spirit, lead to sanctification and "This Church, constituted and organized as a society to salvation. In fact, the decree Unitatis redintegratio, in the present world, subsists in the Catholic Church, 3 explains: "Moreover some, even very many, of the which was governed by the successor of Peter and by most significant elements and endowments which the bishops in communion with him. Nevertheless, together go to build up and give life to the Church many elements of sanctification and of truth are itself, can exist outside the visible boundaries of the found outside its visible confines. Since these are gifts Catholic Church: the written Word of God, the life belonging to the Church of Christ, they are forces of grace, faith, hope and charity along with the other impelling towards Catholic unity." (Lumen Gentium, 8) interior gifts of the Holy Spirit, as well as visible elements. All of these, which come from Christ and This affirmation constitutes a basis for the conciliar lead back to Him, belong by right to the One Church doctrine on unity and ecumenism. An example will of Christ. The brethren divided from us also carry make this more clear: suppose that in each country out many liturgical actions of the Christian religion. there are several libraries, some large and some small. In ways that vary according to the condition of each In comparing them, we could say that certain books church or community, these liturgical actions most are found in all of them, and other books only in the certainly can truly engender a life of grace and, one largest library.

4 TRUE LIFE IN GOD must say, can aptly give access to the communion of a declaration which touches neither the heart nor the salvation." spirit. One might explain the Conciliar teaching thus: in the Unity must, therefore, originate first of all in the small libraries many books are missing. Nonetheless, hearts of men turned with love and esteem toward those found there can be well utilized; they can be each brother and sister in Christ. For this reason, borrowed and read profitably. the Council speaks firstly of spiritual ecumenism which comes about through a change of mentality Good elements but also distortions by conversion, holiness of life and by prayer. "This change of heart and holiness of life, along with The Council doctrine cited above is very optimistic, public and private prayer for the unity of Christians, because it recognizes elements of the one unique should be regarded as the soul of the whole Church of Christ in all churches and ecclesiastical ecumenical movement and merits the name, ‘spiritual communities. Unfortunately, there remains another ecumenism."(Unitatis redintegratio, 8). This spiritual side of the problem of which the Council is well ecumenism is thus produced in the heart. It manifests aware. To varying degrees, certain means of salvation itself in love, respect for the other person and in are missing in non-Catholic churches, such as profound and sincere conversion. ordination and the Sacrament of Penance. Moreover, their veneration of the Virgin Mary and the saints is The message of Jesus given through Vassula also fragmented, and all the non-Catholic churches have speaks to us of a ‘spiritual’ ecumenism which begins rejected the very precious gift offered by Christ to in the heart of man. Here are some examples: His Church to protect their unity, their faith and the truth: the ministry of the Bishop of Rome. "the Kingdom of God is love, peace, unity and faith in the heart: it is the Lord’s Church united in One inside your Citing once again the example of the libraries, one heart; ... I implore My children to unite in heart and voice could say that certain churches are like libraries that and rebuild My Son’s primitive Church in their heart; I have been damaged by a fire that has not completely am saying My Son’s primitive Church, since that Church destroyed them, but has burned completely, or at least was constructed on Love, Simplicity, Humility and Faith; partially, many books. It is necessary, thus, to replace I do not mean you to reconstruct a new edifice, I mean the ruined books because it does no good to loan them you to reconstruct an edifice inside your heart, I mean you out: they are unreadable. to knock down the old bricks inside your heart, bricks of disunion, intolerance, unfaithfulness, unforgiveness, lack The Conciliar doctrine on the Church of Christ of love, and reconstruct My Son’s Church by reconciling; which subsists in the churches shows the road toward you need intense poverty of the spirit and an overflow of true ecumenism and indicates several practical steps wealth of generosity," (TLIG Messages, September noted in Unitatis redintegratio, 5-12. Let us examine 23, 1991) them and compare them with what is brought out in the Messages transmitted by Mrs. Vassula Rydén. "the real Christian is the one who is inwardly a Christian, and the real Unity is and will be in the heart; Unity will not be of the letter but of the spirit;" (TLIG Messages, II. THE ROAD TOWARD CHURCH UNITY October 13, 1991) The Council and the True Life in God messages show "unity will be in the heart;” (TLIG Messages, October us a unity which can be brought about by conversion, 14, 1992) love, and a humility that respects the dignity and the Love and humility create unity equality of the other. It is a unity created by all the good which comes from Christ and the Holy Spirit. It Lack of love, pride and rigidity cause division. In is based on truth that is respected and never rejected. contrast, complete love, gentleness and humility Unity by sincere conversion lead the Church and humanity toward perfect unity. Vatican Council II reminds us of this by emphasizing "There can be no ecumenism worthy of the name the importance of humility. "We should therefore without interior conversion," declares Unitatis pray to the Holy Spirit for the grace to be genuinely redintegratio, 7. Indeed, unity must be authentic; it self-denying, humble, gentle in the service of others cannot be reduced to a signature on an agreement--to and to have an attitude of brotherly generosity toward them." (Unitatis redintegratio, 7)

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 5 The singular importance of humility for the unity of are all One in My Eyes! I do not make any distinction," the Church is enhanced also in the messages of True (TLIG Messages, October 27, 1987) Life in God which could be considered the perfect commentary on the conciliar decrees. "tell Me, are you not all alike, made by My Own Hands? ... who has not been made according to the likeness of My "Love and Humility will be the other Key for UNITY; Image? ... many of them talk of unity and brotherhood, take those Keys and use Them, use Them, My beloved, and but their words are fallacious, void;" (TLIG Messages, be one, be One Holy People;" (TLIG Messages, August November 25, 1991) 9, 1989) We are ‘one’ in the eyes of God who loves people of all Humility rejects pride and rigidity born of excessive religions equally. This is why we must respect others ambition. It bends man to become the servant of if we are to have a unified church. those around him. It is through this means that unity There is yet another reason why equality of all must be built: Christians is emphasized by the Council; that "not until you understand that you will have to is baptism. ”Baptism, therefore, constitutes the bend, will you be able to unite;" (TLIG Messages, sacramental bond of unity existing among all who September 23, 1991) through it are reborn." (Unitatis redintegratio, 22) "blessed are those who do not differentiate themselves Thanks to Baptism, communities (Catholic as well under My Holy Name, but show their unity through as non-Catholic) constitute the real mystical body of their humility and love; they shall be called Pillars and Christ: that is to say, the Church of Christ. For this Foundation of God’s Sanctuary;" (TLIG Messages, reason, in the Messages given through Vassula, Jesus April 14, 1991; cf. August 4, 1991) declares the following about the subject of Christian communities: "all are the same in My Eyes;" (TLIG "so long as you do not reconcile in humility with each other Messages, October 27,1987) and love one another as I love you, your separation will remain.;" (TLIG Messages, March 27, 1992) From the expression ‘the same’ one could understand that all Christian communities are the same mystical "I am One, yet each one of them made a Christ of their body of Christ which is torn and divided by people, own; I am The Head of My Body, yet all I see are their and is still often deprived of the necessary means heads, not Mine; tell them to lower their heads and they given by Christ for its development. will see Mine; tell them to lower themselves so that I may The context of the writings of Vassula indicates that be able to lift them to Me;" (TLIG Messages, October certain communities or denominations are ‘the same’ 7, 1991) and ‘alike’ in that they are part of the mystical body of Christ. However, they have been splintered throughout Recognize the equality and dignity of all history, often thereby becoming impoverished by Although born into different religions, all men belong rejecting part of the truth and certain means of to God who created the soul of each one consciously, salvation given by Christ to His Church. They are directly and with love. "All men are endowed with like the libraries which, while still remaining libraries, a rational soul and are created in God’s image; they allow a part of their books to be destroyed. have the same nature and origin. Being redeemed by Appreciate and share the gifts of God Christ, they enjoy the same divine calling and destiny; there is here a basic equality between all men and it The Council recalls "moreover, some, even very many must be given ever greater recognition." (Gaudium et of the most significant elements and endowments spes, 29.1) which together go to build up and to give life to the Church itself, can exist outside the visible boundaries Unless one recognizes this equality, it is impossible of the Catholic Church..." (Unitatis redintegratio, to construct an authentic unity of the Church. Thus 3) Since the elements of the truth, the endowments therefore, in each Protestant, Orthodox and Catholic coming from Christ and the Holy Spirit, build up it is necessary first of all to see their human dignity: of and give life to the Church, they must be shared. The the creature who comes from God and who belongs dogmatic constitution (Lumen Gentium, 15) mentions to Him. This fundamental truth one finds in the certain values present in non-Catholic churches: the messages of Christ written by Mrs. Vassula Rydén: veneration of Holy Scripture, religious zeal, faith and "orthodox! catholics! protestants! you all belong to Me! you love for Almighty God the Father and for Christ, the 6 TRUE LIFE IN GOD Son of God, our Savior; the grace of Baptism, prayer, "yes, to all those who love Me, I, the Lord, the gifts and graces of the Holy Spirit, and witnessing do not want any divisions in My Church," to the point of shedding one’s blood. Paragraph 15 (TLIG Messages, March 19, 1988). of Unitatis redintegratio enumerates values which can be found in the Eastern Churches: the true In the same way, the Rosary can spiritually enrich sacraments--above all the Eucharist, the veneration every Christian. That is why Jesus says to Vassula: ""for of Mary-Ever Virgin and of the saints, the riches of My sake, Vassula, for My sake, will you learn the Rosary? spiritual traditions which are expressed above all by hail My Mother at all times, will you do this for Me the monastic life, the liturgical patrimony, etc. Vassula?" The Council not only points to the workings of the "Lord I have never been taught." Holy Spirit which operates in the sister Churches, but "do I not know this Vassula, this is why I come to teach you furthermore counsels Catholics to draw profit from and all those who never heard the Rosary;” them. "Therefore, it is earnestly recommended that Catholics avail themselves more often of the spiritual “Yes Lord, I am willing to learn Lord, help me learn.” riches of the Eastern Fathers which lift up the whole man to the contemplation of divine mysteries.” "this is what I desire to hear from all of you who do not (Unitatis redintegratio, 15) know, the same words: "yes Lord, I am willing to learn Lord, help me learn," (TLIG Messages, December 28, Thus, according to Vatican II, it is very useful for the 1987) unity of the Church to recognize and to share all that comes from Christ and the Holy Spirit from within In teaching Vassula the devotion to His Sacred Heart, or from outside the Catholic Church. However, it is Jesus wants to fill her, and also all who will follow her necessary to share only the works that come from of example, with graces, with joy and with peace: "come God. The works of God which have been deformed and abide in My Sacred Heart where in its depths you by man are no longer capable of personal enrichment. will find Peace and will feel My ardent love I have for all of you, you will be able to tell them of My Love for them,” Through mutual spiritual enrichment and the sharing (TLIG Messages, January 24, 1987) of this grace, one finds, and in turn shares the same path Jesus is anxious that pastors, in the communities with others towards unity. In the following True Life in for which they are responsible, not reject any God message, Jesus says: "unity, My Child, is to give to each means which could help to better comprehend His other your riches;"” (TLIG Messages, April 13, 1991) incomprehensible love; and since that is not always the case, He gives notice that: "My Church I will clean, By His messages, Jesus reveals to Vassula, an I will sweep away all those that obstruct The Way to Di- Orthodox, the riches found in the Catholic Church. vine Love and ... My Sacred Heart," (TLIG Messages, He counsels her to accept these riches and to profit December 21, 1987) from them. "it is Love speaking to a hostile world; it is Love knocking Indeed, Jesus asks her to practice that which is not on every locked door; it is Love calling from the other side to be found in her Orthodox Church: for example, of the Wall separating us, built up by My enemies; it is the Way of the Cross, (see TLIG Messages, May 29, Love pleading as a beggar for: a return of Love ... a smile 1987), the Rosary, (see TLIG Messages, December ... a regret ... a sigh … it is I: the Sacred Heart; I come 28, 1987), as well as the veneration of His Sacred once more to revive this dying flame in your heart into Heart and the Immaculate Heart of His Mother (see a Consuming Fire of Tenderness and Love; I descend to TLIG Messages, January 25, 1988). outpour lavishly all the Treasures of My Heart on you, humanity … and give light to those who live in darkness Jesus desires that through Vassula’s example all and the shadow of death; ... ah, creation! what will I not Christians will profit from the spiritual benefits found do for you …"” (TLIG Messages, September 12, 1990) in the Catholic Church; for instance, meditating on the Way of the Cross as a source of grace for everyone: The messages received by Vassula bring out not only the forms of prayer and devotions known in "you are to transmit and show how to do the Stations of the Catholic Church, but above all the truths of the My Cross the way it pleases your Lord, to all those who faith forgotten or else rejected by non-Catholics and, bear witness for me," "all Christians Lord?" unfortunately, by many Catholics of our day.

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 7 Among the truths rejected are those of the primacy the contrary, He asks her to make known to other and infallibility of the Pope. This is why in the message Christians that which is most precious in her Orthodox of March 18, 1991, the Blessed Virgin Mary reminds Church. As an example, Jesus asks Vassula to teach all Catholics and non-Catholics that it is necessary the non-Orthodox the Orthodox Rosary called the to be in union with and cooperate with the Bishop of "Prayer of Jesus": "ask Me every day: Lord Jesus Christ, Rome: "Every priest has been given the grace by God Son of God, have mercy on me the sinner; daughter, teach to act and represent My Son, and so I pray for those your brothers this prayer," (TLIG Messages, January who are not yet submitting humbly to the Vicar of the 18, 1990) Church to submit and be willing; Jesus is Faithful and True;” (TLIG Messages, March 18, 1991) Thus, the unity proclaimed by True Life in God is to appreciate all the existing inspirations of the Holy The messages of True Life in God recall at several Spirit in the churches and to share these values for junctures the necessity to unify the Church around mutual enrichment. the Pope. This is one of the major themes of the writings. (see TLIG Messages, December 12, 1987; This concept of unity is identical to that of Vatican May 7, 1988; May 16, 1988; June 3, 1988; June 4, II. The conciliar decree on ecumenism, (Unitatis 1988; June 21, 1988; November 8, 1988; December redintegratio, 16) says that unity of the Church does 3, 1988; February 9, 1989; March 17, 1993) not require renouncing the diversity of liturgies, prayers, customs and dress. ”To remove all shadow The messages given to Vassula recall not only the of doubt, then, this Holy Synod solemnly declares role of the Bishop of Rome but also other truths that the Churches of the East, while keeping in and traditions forgotten not only by non-Catholic mind the necessary unity of the whole Church, have churches but also by many Catholics today. These lost the power to govern themselves according to their values are above all: own disciplines, since these are better suited to the character of their faithful and better adapted to foster - faith in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist the good of souls." (Unitatis redintegratio, 16) (see TLIG Messages, June 1, 1989; April 13, 1991); Furthermore, the Council emphasizes that a certain - faith in the Perpetual Eucharistic Sacrifice of Christ diversity created by the Holy Spirit constitutes a (see TLIG Messages, January 30, 1989; October 22, richness for the Church: "far from being an obstacle 1990; May 2, 1991; June 2, 1991; June 6,1991; July 16, to the Church’s unity, such diversity of customs and 1991; November 25, 1991; April 19, 1992; May 27, observances only adds to her beauty and contributes 1993; June 1, 1993; December 13, 1993; December greatly to carrying out her mission." (Unitatis 20, 1993; December 22, 1993; August 23, 1994; redintegratio, 16) October 14, 1994; October 24, 1994); Never reject any truth, but accept it completely. - the value of frequent sacramental confession (see While calling for respect of all Christian churches TLIG Messages, February 15, 1987; November 3, and the works of the Holy Spirit found in them, 1990; March 20, 1991); the Council does not ignore the differences which - veneration of the Blessed Virgin Mary (see TLIG divide these communities. It is above all a matter of Messages, December 12, 1987; December 22, 1987) different interpretations of the revealed truth. Indeed, and of the saints (see TLIG Messages, September 27, in speaking of the Protestant churches, the document 1987); Unitatis redintegratio declares: - the efficacy of using images and statues representing "We are indeed aware that there exist considerable God and the saints (see TLIG Messages, October 26, differences from the doctrine of the Catholic Church 1987; August 6, 1988). even concerning Christ’s Word of God made flesh and the work of redemption, and thus, concerning the Thus, the messages received by Vassula encourage mystery and ministry of the Church and the role of her to accept not only some precious prayers and Mary in the work of salvation." (Unitatis redintegratio, devotions but again, all the doctrine entrusted to the 20) Catholic Church, including the primacy of the Pope. One cannot unite the Church by distancing it from However, Jesus does not oblige Vassula to break the Truth of Christ, but on the contrary, by drawing with uniquely Orthodox liturgy and prayers. On closer to it. In the domain of truth no concession is

8 TRUE LIFE IN GOD admissible: it must be loved and sought after as the have come to unite you all; … would any disciple of Mine Council reminds us: deny My appeal?" "Furthermore, in ecumenical dialogue, Catholic "No, not if they are sincere Lord." theologians standing fast by the teaching of the Church yet searching together with separated brethren "by this statement you gave Me hangs all that there is into the divine mysteries should do so with love for to say; ‘if they are sincere’ then they will listen; I come the truth, with charity, and with humility." (Unitatis to shine on you all and enlighten you to be able to unite redintegratio, 11) you, but … to My great sorrow there will be those who would prefer darkness to the Light because their deeds are Thus, unity of the Church is built on the acceptance of evil, they would refuse to come under My Light for fear the entire truth given by God. This is a thesis of the of exposing their deeds, but My devoted ones and those Council and, at the same time, of the message of True that sincerely acknowledge My Works and follow Me will Life in God, which can be considered as an urgent come under My Light exposing without fear their deeds, appeal to the faithful to follow the truth--a call that because they will show that what they do is done in Me is addressed as much to non-Catholics as to present- their God; I have said that if you make My Word your day Catholics: "always defend to death The Truth;" says home, you will indeed be my disciples, you will learn the Jesus, not only to Vassula, but to each of His disciples. Truth and the Truth will make you free," (TLIG Mes- (TLIG Messages, September 23, 1991) sages, December 23, 1987) In these messages there is nothing of the false This dialogue makes clear that unity of the Church ecumenism which would seek to unite Christians will not be realized by rejection of the truth nor by by rejecting a part of the truth because it displeases "diplomacy" which avoids speaking of differences, one church; for example, the unique role of Mary in but rather by a sincere openness to all the truth of the work of redemption, or that of the Pope in the the Gospel. The whole truth must be accepted for Church. One could compare a false ecumenism to an perfect unity of the Church, not only that of the Holy absurd situation in which libraries wanting to become Trinity of Christ Our Savior, but also that of His Real completely alike would destroy their most precious Presence in the Eucharist, His Perpetual Sacrifice; of books of which the other libraries had been deprived the special role confided to the Blessed Virgin Mary or else it would send copies of the books which have by God; of the primacy and infallibility of the Pope; been totally destroyed and charred by the fire in order of frequent personal confession, etc. to "enrich" the other libraries. Hence, false ecumenism proposes unity by the exchange of that which is least Thus, unity of the Church requires acceptance of the good and precious in the Church, for example, a lack whole truth by all: if a Catholic or a non-Catholic of respect for the Blessed Virgin. It is ready to sacrifice rejects it, it is a betrayal. Errors, rationalism and moral truth and even the commandments of God in order relativism must be rejected to the same degree by all to overcome differences between the churches. This believers in Christ. is inadmissable: one cannot transmit to others errors and distortions that arose during centuries of human Accept the Real Presence of Christ meanness. in the Eucharist There is not a trace of this false ecumenism in the writings of Vassula which call for an acceptance of the The Council teaches that ecumenical efforts must whole truth without rejecting any part of it. As an culminate in full Eucharistic communion. "The example of this attitude, one could cite a stern dialogue results will be that, little by little, as the obstacles to of Jesus with Vassula on the subject of Protestants who perfect ecclesiastical communion are overcome, all reject the royal dignity of the Blessed Virgin and the Christians will be gathered, in a common celebration ministry of the Pope. of the Eucharist, into the unity of the one and only church…" (Unitatis redintegratio, 4) "My God, the Protestants will be shocked!" says Vassula. Unfortunately, there are certain obstacles at present impeding the way toward a perfect community of Jesus answers: "Vassula, I have been waiting years for them all Christians around one Eucharistic table. Among to change, now leave Me free to write down My desires; ... these obstacles is the false doctrine which denies the listen, can one hear Me only when it is convenient for him, Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist and then shut his ears when what I say does not suit him? ... I

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 9 which rejects His Perpetual Sacrifice. These obstacles by rebellion, disobedience and unbelief. Thus it is must be overcome by prayer and ecumenical dialogue. nothing less than a disastrous abomination when the Eucharist is put off to the side in our lives and the The message transmitted by Vassula also shows the sacrificial attitude dies in the temples of the hearts of importance of the Eucharist. It is paramount for men. unity to recognize the Real Presence in the Eucharist of He who wishes us to unite around Him. "the disastrous abomination is the spirit of Rebellion that claims to be My equal; it is the spirit of Evil that "My Sacred Heart is calling you all to come to Me in enthroned itself in My sanctuary taking the place of My holiness, lean on Me and I shall guide you to My Tab- Perpetual Sacrifice, turning your generation Godless; it ernacle where I am waiting for you day and night, I of- is the spirit of Rationalism and of Naturalism that led fer you Myself every day, come, come and receive Me in most of you into atheism; this is the spirit that makes you holiness and in purity; do not offend Me, be pure and holy believe you are self-sufficient and that you can achieve when you receive Me, recollect yourselves and recognize everything by your own efforts and by your own strength; My Living Presence in the little white Host, let Me feel this disastrous abomination turned you into a waterless your holiness and purity;" (TLIG Messages, June 1, country of drought, a desert; My Perpetual Sacrifice you 1989; cf. April 13, 1991; October 14, 1991) have abolished from within you because you have lost your Believe in the Eucharistic Sacrifice faith, generation;" (TLIG Messages, June 6, 1991) Recognize the special role of the Blessed Another truth which must be accepted by all Virgin Mary in the work of salvation Christians is that during the Eucharistic celebration Christ’s unique sacrifice on Calvary is brought into Fidelity to the truth--so important for the perfect the present. Unfortunately, this truth--heretofore unity of the church--requires recognition of the always taught by the Catholic Church--is denied singular role confided to the Blessed Virgin by God not only by some non-Catholic churches, but also by himself in salvation history. certain Catholic theologians. The decree Unitatis redintegratio of Vatican II declares For this reason, Jesus reminds us in the message of with joy that in the Eastern Churches the Blessed November 25, 1991: "the greatness of My Church Virgin is venerated; that she is "paid high tribute, in exceeded everything and every living creature, because beautiful hymns of praise." (Unitatis redintegratio, 15) the Eucharist made the life of My Church; if My Church In speaking of Protestants, the Council declares the today lacks brightness it is because many of My churches divergence between them and the Catholic Church have abolished My Perpetual Sacrifice;" (TLIG Mes- regarding the role of the Holy Virgin in the work of sages, November 25, 1991) salvation. (Unitatis redintegratio, 20) Full unity of the Church will be realized the day when Certainly, perfect unity in love and in truth demands all peoples gather around Jesus really present in the the recognition of all the salvific duties confided by Eucharist and around His unique salvific sacrifice: "the God in His love to Mary and all the special graces nations shall then speak one language and all of them shall that She has received. All believers must also unite in worship Me around One Single Tabernacle; this One of veneration of the Blessed Virgin. the Sacrificial Lamb, this One of the Perpetual Sacrifice that My enemies are trying to abolish and replace by their This necessity is very strongly emphasized in the disastrous abomination," (TLIG Messages, May 2, messages given to Vassula. Indeed Jesus insists: "My 1991) (Daniel 11:31) Mother’s Immaculate Heart is united to Mine, I desire from each one of you the devotion Her Immaculate Heart The disastrous abomination is at once the work of deserves, you see daughter how Our Divine Hearts are Satan and of men who allow themselves to be led by covered by thorns from men who only show Us ingratitude, him. This abomination is among other things the lack sacrilege, lack of love, it is the whole of their sins; Vassula, of faith in Christ really present in the Eucharist and I who am the Word love and respect Her, I desire you to in His Perpetual Sacrifice which saves generations of approach My Mother and honour Her as I honour Her; I every epoch. The disastrous abomination is again the desire that every knee bends, honouring Her, I desire you absence of the spiritual sacrifice in the temple of our to pray the Rosary and Hail your Holy Mother, I want hearts. There the filial attitude of obedience to the you to repair your sins, asking Her to teach you;" (TLIG will of God--which constitutes the essential element Messages, January 25, 1988) of every spiritual offering--is more and more replaced

10 TRUE LIFE IN GOD Jesus who loves and respects his mother Himself gives our sins, purifies and unites us with the Father and the the example to all believers--not only to Catholics-- Church. It is only through this sacrament that unity of how to love and respect her. In the name of truth of the Church is to be realized. one cannot diminish the grandeur of the one chosen by the Heavenly Father Himself who entrusted to The messages transmitted by Vassula remind us of Her without the slightest hesitation His well-beloved this sacrament so forgotten and neglected and of the Son. He knew She would not disappoint Him. And necessity for frequent individual confession. Jesus indeed it was so. says: "I have given you confessors, when My beloved ones, you are confessing to him you are only confessing to Remain in unity with the Pope Me, it is to Me you are confessing;" (TLIG Messages, September 29, 1988) True Life in God reminds us that perfect unity of the Church can only be realized around the Pope. "be constant in your confessions, little children, to be able This truth is repeated courageously at many points to come and receive Me in the Holy Eucharist as often as throughout the writings of Vassula. With courage you can; fast on bread and water two days a week, to make because the primacy and the infallibility of the reparations and sacrifice;" (TLIG Messages, August 2, Bishop of Rome is among those truths which have 1991) very little popularity, not only among Orthodox and "when you come to Me, make sure before, how you will Protestants, but lately also among many Catholics, receive Me, examine yourselves, recollect yourselves, hon- even theologians, who dispute it. our Me fully by repenting and often confessing;" (TLIG Jesus therefore says in some of His messages: "purify Messages, September 29, 1988) yourselves, repent, obey the Vicar of My Church, John "alas for him who offends Me by refusing confession and Paul II, who never fails you, but that you push aside and absolution and comes to receive My Son, guilty! repent! ignore; all you who are still scoffing at him are weighing repent for your sins!" (TLIG Messages, March 20, ever so heavily in My Sacred Heart ..." (TLIG Mes- 1991) sages, June 1, 1989) A sincere dialogue "I come to unite My Church, I come to remind you to whom I the Lord have given the Authority and the Keys Thus--according to Vatican Council II and True Life of the Kingdom of Heaven," (TLIG Messages, March in God--unity of the Church can be realized through 23, 1988; cf. March 19, 1988; February 9, 1989) a profound change of heart by men who begin to love Purify yourself often in the Sacrament sincerely. Another requirement of authentic unity is absolute fidelity to the truth, even to that which is no of Reconciliation longer popular. One can achieve unity in following the path of love of God, of men, and of truth. The Council reminds us that divisions in the Church were often due to the errors of men on both sides. This love is indispensable when one engages in the (Unitatis redintegratio, 3) Again today, lack of love ecumenical dialogue which according to Vatican II and pride divide the Church, or at least slow down the is very important for unity. Besides conversion, love, process of unity. For this reason, all Christians must be humility, mutual respect and communal prayer, this always conscious of their sins and not those of others. dialogue can be considered the most important means This is why the Council reminds us: "The testimony toward unity. Its goal is better mutual awareness and of St. John the Evangelist can also be applied to sins rediscovery of what Christ is really transmitting to against unity: ‘if we say we have not sinned, we make His Church. (cf. Unitatis redintegratio, 4) Him a liar and His word is not in us’ (1 John 1:10). Thus, in humble prayer we beg pardon of God and of This dialogue leads toward unity but on condition our separated brethren, just as we forgive them that that it is sincere, profound and with an increasingly offend us." (Unitatis redintegratio, 7) ardent and authentic desire for unity. Otherwise, it will degenerate into endless discussions, polemics, Consequently, if one wishes to unite the Church, quarrels or polite conversation without meaningful purification by sincere repentance and sacramental results. The messages through Vassula warn against confession is necessary. Unfortunately, the sacrament such a fruitless dialogue. Jesus says: of penance is not accepted, not only by Protestants, but in our day by many Catholics. Less and less advantage "I am weary of hearing their noble language, perhaps it is taken of this sacrament by which Jesus frees us from is suitable and eloquent for them but to Me it sounds like TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 11 a stroke on a gong, because it is empty with emptiness; I of Jesus is so dramatic: "’Am I, Father to drink one more have come to talk to them, first out of concern, then out season of the Cup of their division? or will they at least of pity, but no one yet to this day has lowered his voice unify the Feast of Easter alleviating part of My pain and to hear My Voice; alas for you, who say you are at My sorrow?’’ (TLIG Messages, October 25, 1991) service yet prevent My Kingdom from finding unity and stability!" (TLIG Messages, December 21, 1992) "when will they all pass a decree by unanimous vote to celebrate the Feast of Easter all in one date?" (TLIG "Go from country to country and tell those who speak of Messages, December 21, 1992) unity, yet never cease to think the contrary and continue to live the contrary that their division has separated My "pray for the unification of the dates of Easter;" (TLIG Heart from theirs;" (TLIG Messages, October 7, 1991) Messages, April 8, 1993) A common date of Easter Unity will survive

For different reasons it is still not possible for all The Council, fully cognizant of the difficulties attached Christians to celebrate the Eucharist together. This to ecumenism, fully believes in the future unity of the is why the Council advises us to unify at every level Church which will, however, be the work of the Holy where it is possible: in action and above all, in common Trinity. ”It therefore places its hope entirely in the prayer. For all Christians to celebrate on the same day prayer of Christ for the Church, in the love of the the Mystery of the death and resurrection of Christ Father for us, and in the power of the Holy Spirit." would be an important sign of unity. Unfortunately, (Unitatis redintegratio, 24) One finds this same hope until now, Catholics and Orthodox have not also in the writings of Mrs. Rydén; we must journey established a common date for Easter. toward imminent unity by our conversion, love, humility and prayer, but it will be achieved by Christ The Council strongly desires unity in the celebration and the Holy Spirit. of the Paschal Mystery. The Conciliar decree Orientalium Ecclesiarum expresses this desire: "Until "My beloved ones, the Day is near when every vision all Christians agree, as is hoped, on one day for the will come true, every vision will soon be fulfilled and celebration of Easter by all, in the meantime as a in your own lifetime too, so open your hearts and try to means of fostering unity among Christians who live understand why My Spirit of Grace is poured on this in the same area or country, it is left to the patriarchs generation so generously; the Day is drawing near, when or to the supreme ecclesiastical authorities of the all generations shall be one, under one Shepherd around place to consult all parties involved and so come to one Holy Tabernacle and I, the Lord, shall be Unique for unanimous agreement to celebrate the feast of Easter them, so pray My beloved ones, pray for this Unity which on the same Sunday." (Orientalium Ecclesiarum, 20) I, the Lord, am in full preparation on it;" (TLIG Mes- sages, June 19, 1989) In the True Life in God messages an accord between Orthodox and Catholics on a common date of Easter "let Me tell you once more, that My Body I will glorify and appears to be a very important thing. Indeed, Jesus unite," (TLIG Messages, October 18, 1987) complains: "- will I, brother, one more season go through The vision of the three bars also shows that unity will the pain I have been going through year after year? or will be accomplished by the power from on high. Thus, you give Me rest this time? am I going to drink one more Jesus says to Vassula: "draw three iron bars with a head season the Cup of your division? or will you rest My Body on the top … these represent the Roman Catholics, the and unify, for My sake the Feast of Easter? in unifying Orthodox and the Protestants, I want them to bend and the date of Easter, you will alleviate My pain, brother, unite, but these iron bars are still very stiff and cannot and you will rejoice in Me and I in you; and I will have bend on their own, so I shall have to come to them with the sight of many restored;" (TLIG Messages, October My Fire and with the power of My Flame upon them 14, 1991) they shall turn soft to bend and mould into one solid iron Unifying the date of Easter would express good will bar, and My Glory will fill the whole earth;" (TLIG and a sincere desire for unity because there are no Messages, October 26, 1989) doctrinal reasons which impede celebrating at the "this is how My Spirit will unite every single one of you in same time the death and the resurrection of our Lord. the end and every one will believe it was the Father who On the contrary, from a theological point of view, it is sent Me, every one will recognize Me as the Sacrificial the simplest thing but, alas, up to the present has not Lamb;" (TLIG Messages, May 30, 1993) succeeded! It is probably for this reason that the plea

12 TRUE LIFE IN GOD III. CONCLUSIONS desired by Jesus and by Vatican II.

Analysis of Vatican II documents and of the writings "This Sacred Council firmly hopes that the initiatives of Vassula Rydén imposes the following conclusion: of the sons of the Catholic Church, joined with those there is a perfect concordance between the two in of the separated brethren, will go forward, without their teaching on unity. However, the difference in obstructing the ways of divine providence, and style and in the ideas used exclude any hypothesis without pre-judging the future inspirations of the that Vassula took advantage of the documents of the Holy Spirit." (Unitatis redintegratio, 24) This desire Second Vatican Council. This concordance can only of the Council at the same time sounds a warning be explained, therefore, by its coming from the same to those who through their thoughtlessness and Person who influenced the Fathers of the Council and imprudent zeal cause harm to the progress toward Vassula Rydén. One could say that we see the same unity. (cf. Unitatis redintegratio, 24) principal Author of the Conciliar documents and of The author of this article, Father Doctor Michael the writings of Vassula. Kaszowski, received his doctorate from the Catholic The teaching on the unity of the Church which University of Louvain and has taught dogmatic theology emerges from the writings of Mrs. Rydén is identical at the Archdiocesan Seminary of Katowice, Poland for the to that of Vatican II. Hence, those who impute to past 20 years. He has written several books of a pastoral her a "pan-Christian” unity thereby prove that they nature, including works on deepening the faith among are not at all familiar with her writings. children and youth. As the editor of the Polish edition of True Life in God, he knows the messages in depth. He is a There is also a moral aspect to the accusations against firmly orthodox theologian of stature, who has consistently the teachings of Mrs. Rydén. Anyone who accuses affirmed that there is no trace of error found in the writings her of a doctrine on unity that is contrary to the of Vassula. He has expressed this conclusion in two prefaces teachings of the Church is telling a lie and spreading and in a defense of Vassula which appears in the Polish calumny. Consequently, if one wishes to be faithful to edition. An article he wrote on private revelations is Christ--he must do justice and rectify the wrong done reprinted in volume 8 of the original handwriting edition not only to her, but also to the work of unity so much of True Life in God.

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 13 Testimony Benjamin Fenlon

ello, my name is Benjamin Fenlon. I’m from Shortly after, maybe only one year later, someone in London, England and am 27 years old. To put my parish told me about the Messages, and lent me Hit simply, I owe everything I’ve become to the mes- the books. I began to read them, one after another, sages of True Life in God. God willing, I will com- and they nourished my spiritual life so as to be able to plete my studies as a seminarian soon and serve Him conserve my faith during those difficult teenage years. as a Catholic priest of the Latin rite for the rest of my Really, there were moments when it seemed that I was days. the only one in the whole school who tried to live in a state of grace. I first had an experience of our Lord at the age of six when my mother visited the local parish to enrol I received thousands of particular graces by read- me in catechism classes. I simply ing the Messages. Many of them remember my parish priest taking spoke directly to my life’s situation. me into the church building. We I once came home crying because came to a bench, knelt down to- a girl that I was attracted to had gether, and he told me to pray to rejected me. I went to the TLIG Jesus who was present in the taber- website for consolation, but my at- nacle. I felt that Christ flooded me titude was this, “Lord, You’ve spo- with His love that day. ken to me so many times already through this, but I don’t think you Sincerely, I wish that all children can do it now. Heaven isn’t go- could have the same experience I ing to stoop down to my teenage had. I believe that many more souls heartache.” I decided to read the would be saved if we really taught first part of the Messages (where them to pray from the youngest of the guardian angel Daniel speaks), ages, as that holy priest taught me just to make it harder for God to to pray. From what I’ve seen, cat- respond to me. And I felt abso- echists and parish priests unfortu- lutely alluded to, 100%, while read- nately often do not treat children ing what the angel and the Lord well; that is, as if they are incapa- said to Vassula. As they detached ble of absorbing the plenitude of Vassula from her angel, they de- the faith, of sacrifice, of contact with God. Please-- tached me from earthly loves. children are more capable of experiencing the faith than we adults. When I was fifteen years old, the desire for the voca- tion as priest came by grace one day when I was struck Five years after that first experience with God (I was by one message in particular. That message said that still only eleven years old), I had a strong conversion the most pleasing prayer to God is “Let it be done experience. I realized that I hadn’t responded to the to me according to Your Will.” This phrase hit me love that God had shown me, and that my heart had because deep down I recognized that pleasing God become dull and cold. It was a moment when I was was all I wanted and the only thing worth doing, even changing schools, and I had a great desire to start my though I was scared of what He would ask me to do, courses all over again. So from the age of eleven I because it meant losing control over my life. I put faithfully prayed, confessed and attended Mass on the book down and recollected myself so as to pray Saturdays and Sundays. Though as time went on, my prayer to Him sincerely. I opened to Him a gate maybe it would be more accurate to say that prayer, in my heart that I had previously closed. A few days confession and my attendance at weekly Mass ser- afterwards He said to me, “I want you to be only and vices were the only things I was completely faithful to. all Mine.” I understood that He wanted me to be a priest, and I accepted, though I was terrified.

14 TRUE LIFE IN GOD I believe that moment was the turning point of my of the Eucharist, the defence of the honor of Our life. It was the most profound contact I’ve ever had Lady, especially towards the privilege of her perpet- with Him, and it touched me so deeply that I can’t ual virginity, and the conquest of the youth for Jesus doubt that He loves me, no matter what happens. Christ. The members consist of priest-brothers, sisters, laity and youth. Thanks to the Messages, I heard about Garabandal too. I’d never before been to a place of apparitions, and Until now, my path has been one of great fidelity and when I was invited to visit I accepted gladly. I visited love given by God, and feeble co-operation given to Garabandal with a movement called the ‘Home of the Him by me. Please pray for me, so that I can take the Mother.’ I liked the group so much that I remain con- next step in my life well and become the priest that nected to it, and I hope never to leave the group. God wants me to become. If everyone reading this were to say one ‘Hail Mary’ for this poor seminar- Ever since I discovered it a decade ago, ‘the Home’ has ian, they’d make him very happy. Not to mention, if been a real home to me; they’d each offer a Mass for his conversion… the spirituality is Carmelite, though it is also without Thank you for your attention and your prayers. a doubt from Garabandal. God love you. The three missions of the movement are: the defence

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“Thank you for reading the messages. When I listen, it is as the Lord is speaking on the radio to His children and the touch the core of my heart and soul.” Miguel Angelo Goncalves, Johannesburg, South Africa, 2017 “Thank you for all you are doing to spread the Messages through this medium. I enjoy the blend of testimonies, talks, and of course the music!” Celine Vieira, India, Mumbai, 2016 “I find peace reading to your posts in Facebook. I love this Radio. It’s a gift from God the Father.” Livinus Lafen, Cameroon, 2016

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 15 BETH MYRIAM FEEDS THE POOR B e t h M y r i a m S u r k h e t , N e p a l

Mr. Rokai who has both legs amputated in his house with Sr. Jyoti and his relatives ere is the story of a 50 year-old man who lives with ing, on government land. In the meantime, the man’s his wife and his children in a small hut in Surkhet. other leg also developed gangrene. Due to utter poverty, HA few years ago he moved with his family to Gujarat the family was unable to take care of his medical needs. in India to look for a job. He got a job in a private Finally, due to the benevolence of a political leader from company as a guard and was leading a happy life. One Surkhet, he was taken to a hospital in Kathmandu where day during his duty hours, while opening the company’s his second leg was amputated. The wound is healed, but iron-gate entrance, the gate disconnected and fell on his he is utterly helpless. His wife and children suffer with legs. One of his legs was completely crushed, and over him. a few months time the doctors had to amputate it due The sisters from Navjyoti in Surkhet reach-out to his to gangrene (the decomposition of body tissue, result- family and help them in whatever way they can. His ing from obstructed circulation or bacterial infection). medications and dressings, along with some food sup- He lost his job and had to return to his native land in plies are provided on a regular basis through Beth Nepal. In August 2014, a severe flash-flood destroyed Myriam contributions in Surkhet, which is run by their land and house, and they became homeless. They Christine Plomben. were given a temporary shelter, made from plastic sheet-

Mr. Rokai Mr. Rokai with his daughter

16 TRUE LIFE IN GOD American Association for True Life in God 10th Annual Ecumenical Prayer Retreat - California My Presence In The Eucharist October 26 –29, 2017 Serra Retreat Center 3401 Serra Road Malibu, CA 90265

UBER [taxi] Service from LAX approximately $25.00 Registration Deadline: October 6, 2017 Reservations are non-refundable!

Name ______Questions - Tim Maher - Address ______310-569-2096 City ______State ______Zip [email protected] Phone ______Email ______AATLIG for credit card Thursday, October 26 to 29th , 2017 NO. TOTAL processing only 816-461-8888 Double Share Room $380 x ______= ______Name of Double-Occupancy Roommate: ______Please note that all single NO. TOTAL rooms are sold out Day Rates Friday – Saturday (4 meals) $160 ______= ______Only Double (breakfast NOT included, no sleeping overnight at Retreat) Occupancy available

God, you are my God, I pine for You; my heart thirsts for You, my body longs for You ....I feel inside me like a land of drought, weary and waterless without You, I long to gaze on You; on my bed I think of You, I meditate on You all night long; my soul clings close to You ... more understanding than the aged, because I keep Your divine instructions; oh, how delightful it is to befriend You my sweet God; Your Presence, so intimately intertwined with My soul, rejoices me and is sweeter than hon- ey; Your fragrance perfumes all the universe and inebriates my soul while invigorating my very being. Michelle, please remove the period and put in: ; “ (TLIG message, January 20, 2001)

In addition to spirit-filled talks and time for meditation, we will offer: Daily Mass ∙ Confession Healing Prayer ∙ Ado- ration & Benediction Song and Praise ∙ Testimonies ∙ Fellow- PLEASE COME AND JOIN US FOR ship and Guest Speakers THIS VERY SPECIAL EVENT TLIG Books ∙ Prayer Cards ∙ DVDs, and pictures available

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 17 Invitation To Be One With Christ A Modern Prophecy in the Light of Jewish and $5 Each + postage $2.84 = Total $7.84 Christian Biblical Symbolism 2 books = $10 + postage $3.58 = Total $13.58 by Sr. Anne Woods Canadian residents, please call for postal rates

Chapter 3 Buy 2 books you’ll save on postage! Excerpt Questions or credit card orders 1-816-461-8888 1) God speaking. Only God can reveal to AATLIG Mail your check or P.O. Box 4230 us our sins whether He uses Holy Scripture, money order to: Independence, MO 64051 homilies, prophets, or our own conscience through divine inspiration whether imparted by the Holy Spirit or by our guardian angel. Only the Spirit Himself can convince us of sin. Every realization of sin in ourselves means we have heard God speak to us personally and individually.

True Life in God Messages frequently speak of a Fire which is to sweep through the Cit- ies. This is open to misinterpretation if taken literally as a physical fire in every instance. In reading True Life in God we must bear in mind what St John of the Cross teaches, namely, “One should not interpret the prophecy literally, for God’s spiritual meaning is difficult to understand and different from our literal interpretation. This is so true that The spiritual meaning is the first interpreta- even Jeremiah, a prophet himself, observing tion – which is not to say that some others that the ideas in God’s words were so differ- may also be physical. Taking this view in this ent from the meaning men would ordinarily instance, that the interpretation is entirely derive from spiritual, we can see that the fire in True Life them, seems to waver and defend the people: in God refers to the Fire of the Holy Spirit Heu, heu, heu, Domine Deus,....? (Alas, alas, sweeping through our souls. [cf ‘city’ as ‘soul’ alas, Lord God, have you perchance deceived in Church tradition. see Chapter 14] This Di- this people and Jerusalem, saying: Peace will vine Presence of the Holy Spirit will convince come to you; and behold the sword reaches us of our sin. even to the soul?)”15

18 TRUE LIFE IN GOD CHRIST’S AGONY IN GETHSEMANE This is an original Limited Edition Giclée on Canvas Print, mea- suring 48” x 36”, and is printed with pigmented inks strictly limited to 250.

Each print is hand signed and authorized by the artist, Vassula Ryden, as a faithful reproduction of the original oil painting.

Vassula Ryden has personally inspected, numbered, approved and signed each print.

No unsigned or unnumbered copies within the edition exist.

Fine materials are used to ensure long lasting beauty to protect your investment in fine art.

To properly care for your print on canvas, protect it from strong ultraviolet radiation such as direct sunlight.

Reproductions of the image you see may not be made. All rights to this image are fully retained by Vassula Ryden. Preparing the tubes for mailing

To reserve your Limited Edition Print on Canvas, send an email to Sara at [email protected] or call 1-816-461-8888. Please consider giving this to your priest as a gift. Prayer groups may also purchase a copy for their group meetings. Price: $1,000. Call for details. There will be no copyright protection on the Canvas you receive.

Funds received for this Canvas are directed to the True Life in God Mission which supports the Beth Myriams, the Founda- tion for True Life in God, and the Greek Association covering retreats and sometimes air ticket expenses for countries that can’t pay for Vassula’s mission to these countries.

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 19 VIETNAM Vassula is welcomed to Vietnam for the first time

by Travel Companion Cecilia B. Lutz While Vassula was deliberating on which countries Through Mr. Hoang’s commitment and desire to in Asia and which cities in China to include in her have the Messages known in his country, he agreed March, 2017 trip, I suddenly received an e-mail from to organize Vassula’s visit through a couple of newly her mentioning Shanghai and Hanoi. That was a sur- acquainted contacts in Saigon. Vietnam was to be the prise to me because I know Hanoi is not in China eighty-sixth country to formally receive a witness talk and is situated in Vietnam. Had Vassula received an by Vassula. inspiration to go to Vietnam or did she mix-up her Geography? Organizing preparations for our Lord’s messages is full of challenges, especially when dealing with Com- For many years now, I knew of the existence of the munist countries like China and Vietnam. We were Vietnamese translation of the True Life in God mes- already made aware of the strained situation between sages through Suzy Vardanian of TLIG Australia. I the Church and State in China, and realized it was the immediately contacted TLIG Australia and they put same in Vietnam. Permits are needed for any gather- me in touch with Mary Xuan Dinh, a Vietnamese ings of crowds; therefore, Hoang informed Vassula, who lives in Melbourne, and who is today, one of the as it would be her first visit in Vietnam, to speak only translators of the TLIG messages. Mary told me the at convents and at an ecumenical meeting held in a history of TLIG in Vietnam: long ago, the late Viet- pastoral center. namese priest, Fr. Augustin Nguyen Duc Thu, S.J. attended Vassula’s talk in Adelaide, Australia and saw Two days before departing from Guangzhou for Sai- the Holy Face of Jesus gon, we were informed on Vassula! From then that the Vietnam- on, with the help of ese TLIG books and his friends, priests and Heaven in Real But so laypeople, he trans- is Hell that were sup- lated the Messages and posed to be printed TLIG in Vietnam was and available for Vas- born. Amazingly in sula’s talks were, at the 2004, the Lord called last minute, not al- Mary Xuan Dinh by lowed publication by covering her with the the government! At fragrance of incense that stage, Vassula was for three days and led about to cancel her trip her to the home of Vassula is welcomed in Saigon Airport by the Mother to Vietnam. However, Superior of the Missionaries of Christ’s Charity Avo and Suzy Varda- the good Lord came to nian who had set up the our rescue. Hoang and TLIG Australia Asso- Mary tried their best to ciation. There, Mary fell upon the TLIG book, My ship the books and asked their friends to carry about Angel Daniel, and was touched. She now continues 80 copies from Australia and the USA to Vietnam working with the Vietnamese TLIG translation team as samples for the audience. Besides this, Sophia on volume four and the HIR (Heaven is Real but so is and Lulit from a TLIG Thailand prayer group who Hell) to complete the Vietnamese translation of these planned to attend Vassula’s talk and assist the orga- books. Thanks to Fr. Thu’s engagement, the road to nization in Saigon, if needed, were willing to carry Vietnam was starting to open and True Life in God another 30 copies into Saigon with the help of Fred, was slowly making its way into that country. Sophia’s husband, and Bethany from the TLIG Aus- tralia Association. Fred happened to be leaving the We were then put in touch with Mr. Hoang Tran following day for Sydney, Australia on a business trip who lives in Austin, Texas and had been dissemi- and he took with him a huge empty suitcase, filled nating True Life in God message for many years. it up to the brim, brought these books to Bangkok,

20 TRUE LIFE IN GOD and Sophia and Lulit flew them into Saigon! Upon knowing this would happen, Vassula was then willing to continue her visit to Vietnam.

March 8 - Arrival in Saigon After a two and a half hour flight from Guangzhou, China, we were met in Saigon Airport by Sr. Frances Ha Thanh Tinh, the Mother Superior of the Mission- aries of Christ’s Charity and Kien Tran, a supporter of the TLIG Messages. They have known about True Life in God for many years through Fr. Thu and Mary. They were very happy to welcome Vassula and Fr. Jo- seph to their country. Vassula is introduced to Cardinal Emeritus Jean-Baptiste Pham Minh Man

March 9 - Planning of Ecumenical Meeting and sage given to Vassula: “I like the image of 3 iron Vassula meets Cardinal Emeritus Jean-Baptiste bars. It’s true that the key to unity is humility and love. Minh Man It’s time to place garlands of love on our Lord’s Head instead of the crown of thorns.” Vassula and Fr. Joseph met Fr. Francis Xavier Bao Loc, Director of the Office of Interreligious and Ecu- On our way to visit His Eminence, Cardinal Jean- Baptiste Pham Minh Man, we were shown the chapel within the seminary grounds, built by French priests.

March 11 - Saigon Meeting at the Convent of the Daughters of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary

Fr. Francis Xavier Bao Loc invited Vassula, accompanied by Sr. Frances to his office

Vassula’s first Talk was held at this Convent.

With God’s grace, our TLIG Vietnam organizers were able to prepare three talks in Saigon, despite all the difficulties, hesitations and unknown variables. The Saigon Seminary Chapel This convent above, which is located in the center of menical Relations. the city of Saigon, hosted the first TLIG event. The event was an invitation from the Superior General Through Fr. Francis’ team, the ecumenical meet- of the Congregation of the Daughters of Our Lady ing was confirmed for the following Tuesday, March of the Holy Rosary. It was a perfect opportunity for 14. Fr. Francis expressed his view of God’s Mes- Vassula to witness on her experience of God, men-

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 21 tioning the many clarifications made to confirm the formation, and a dubbed Vietnamese version of Vas- authenticity of the messages of True Life in God. sula’s 1998 meeting in Australia online. This had been posted on YouTube five years ago and had 60,000 vis- Sr. Marie Rose Vu Loan, the Superior General of its. Many telephone calls were received from those the Daughters of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, welcomed Vassula to the meeting. As she has known about the True Life in God messages for many years, Sr. Marie Rose was so happy to have her guest share the Messages in person with her community. She said: “Vassula’s sharing and witness are very familiar to what we live and commit to God. Although there’s limited time, Vassula has delivered the main points of

Vietnamese TLIG books and Prayer Guides were available who were touched and converted after reading the first three volumes online and watching the video. Readers have expressed the joy they feel for the intimate love that Jesus reserves for His children, the tenderness of God, and the two virtues that bring unity: humility and love. In the audience were Van and her mother who lis- The Mother Superior of the Convent welcomed Vassula the TLIG messages.” The audience in attendance was made up of 150 nuns and novices, and some family and friends who were so eager to hear and know God’s message for the world today. The books were very quickly dispersed after Vassula’s address. We were told that many years ago, volumes one-three (1986-1990) had been printed in Vietnam- ese and over 2,000 copies were distributed in Viet-

The 10 a.m. Meeting was held in the Convent Hall

nam, Australia, Canada, and the USA. A Vietnam- ese website had been created for Vietnamese people With her mother standing by her side, Van worldwide to access the TLIG messages, TLIG in- holds the book that saved her

22 TRUE LIFE IN GOD tened closely to Vassula’s talk that morning. Van was very happy to share her experience of True Life in God which started in 2012. “Long before that, while I was a university student, I had strayed from my faith; I no longer believed in God. I had searched on my own for information and read many books on different religions, leaving my Catholic background behind. This saddened my mother and the rest of my family, leading them to pray intensely for me. I was at a stage in my life when I turned a deaf ear to anything my Vassula spoke as Hoang translated her mother would say. talk into Vietnamese. When the TLIG books were published in Vietnam, perience with God’s call through her Angel Daniel my mother bought a book and left it lying on my bed were revealed. She described her Angel’s reactions to without saying a word. When I retired to my room her ignorance of her knowledge of God, her outright and saw the book, I started to read it. I instantly felt “wretchedness” with regard to her behavior, and her God’s love come close to me, undergoing a change submission to this divine call through repentance. of heart while I went through a spiritual cleansing This profound regret in displeasing God came after through heavy tears. My life changed; I now go to she had undergone a three week purification wherein church daily, spending hours in front of the Blessed God revealed her soul to her the in the manner He Sacrament adoring God. I feel I belong to God.” sees it. It was such a beautiful story that it can only be to March 12 - Sunday Vassula speaks at the God’s glory, resounding in our hearts an awareness of God’s grace and drawing us into a sincere repentance. onvent of the issionaries of hrist s C M C ’ This Love Hymn entitled True Life in God with its Charity many themes of Intimacy with God, His Mercy, Re- pentance, Prayer without Ceasing, the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, Unity of all Christians is given to us today, to teach us and guide us through this End Times. The young novices, the nuns and the Superior Gener- al, Sr. Frances, were filled with joy to see and hear the Messages that reveal the simplicity of God and His nearness. The questions that were asked after Vas- sula’s talk concerned the gift God gave her and how she receives the Messages through locution. Sr. Fran- ces showed the audience the books with the original handwriting. She had known about Vassula from Fr. Thu and has been reading the Messages for a while. Her comment expresses how she was touched, “God sent Vassula to Vietnam during this Lenten season to The sisters ran to meet Vassula be a witness. When Vassula talked, I felt like God was talking directly to each one of us out of His Love. We have to humble ourselves and stay in silence so that This congregation which was started by St. Mother we can hear God’s voice because He is so close to us, Teresa of Calcutta is dedicated to helping poor elderly around us and in each one of us.” people, children, and pregnant single mothers. The Superior General, Sr. Frances Ha Thanh Tinh, and After Fr. Joseph celebrated the Sunday Mass, a group the many nuns and novices were so thrilled to wel- of single mothers came forward with their infants for come Vassula! a special blessing. Vassula’s talk took place in one of the children’s class- rooms filled with about sixty novices, nuns and single mothers. Details about the very beginning of her ex- March 14 - Tuesday Ecumenical Meeting

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 23 After Fr. Joseph celebrated the Sunday Mass, a group of single mothers came forward with their infants for a special blessing Fr. Francis Xavier Bao Loc introduced Vassula.

The hall was filled with representatives of Taken in their chapel, this group picture will surely many Christian denominations find its place in their album of precious memories

Kiêm of the Lutheran Church, Pastor Phạm Đình Nhẫn of the United Gospel Outreach, Pastor Bùi Thanh Sê of the Pentecostal Evangelical Church, and Pastor Vũ Văn Hoàng of the Glorious Baptist Church. The rest of the audience was composed of representatives from the Cao Dai Church and Roman Catholic clergy, headed by Fr. Peter Nguyễn Văn Hiền, Executive Director of the Pastoral Center who very enthusiastically welcomed Vassula and Fr. Joseph. Archdiocese of Saigon Pastoral Center After each pastor introduced himself and then, sub- sequently after Vassula’s talk on Unity, one could at the Saigon Catholic Pastoral Center feel a joyful lightness in the atmosphere and moreover, I should say a relief. The comments we re- This Pastoral Center [pictured above] in the Arch- ceived from some of the participants showed how diocese of Saigon includes the Headquarters of Ecu- Our Lord’s message affected positively all those menical Affairs, the Office of the Archbishops’ Con- Christian denominations bringing urgency, but ference, the seminary, and the headquarters of various hope as well for the Christians to unite in diversity. Catholic groups.

Vassula’s talk at the Pastoral Center based on “Unity Testimonies in Diversity,” was well received by pastors and religious leaders of different denominations. It was or- “I was touched by what God revealed to Vassula. I be- ganized by Fr. Francis Xavier Bao Loc. As a result of lieve each one of us felt that it was really the cry from this talk, a positive communication channel for future Jesus’ Heart towards His Church, His Mystical Body. dialogues in Vietnam was established. Thank God for getting me over here. Once again I firmly believe the messages that Vassula, an ordinary Seated in the front rows were pastors of the different Protestant denominations in Saigon: Pastor Hồ Tấn Khoa of the Presbyterian Church, Pastor Nguyễn Văn 24 TRUE LIFE IN GOD event. Our Federation has twenty-seven denominations. Today, we reached a higher step, not only for Protestants and Catholics but also for Orthodox. We all came from one source, that’s God. We are one in God through Jesus. In the future, if you host any event like this, please inform us so that we can gather more than twenty pastors of different denominations from all over Vietnam so that we can all be in communion with our prayers to God, asking Him to bless our country during these difficult times.” -Pastor Hồ Tấn Khoa of the Presbyterian Church. “Oh, God, the Father of love, please enkindle your love in all of us, all mankind on earth so that we are all Vassula and Fr. Joseph with other Pastors united in You. Thanks be to God the Almighty!” - Br. Thian Chi - Cao Dai Church layperson received are really from God. And I told When I heard this, I felt strongly that we must not myself ‘I should do something.’ Sometimes I felt dis- only pray for Unity, but we must truly live the spirit couraged because bringing Unity to all churches or of Unity. When Vassula said, ‘Do it!’ I did not know denominations having lots of prejudices is not an easy what to do because we all felt the task was so difficult. task. But I think it must start from me with a differ- However, Fr. Bao Loc said ‘the hour’ belongs to God, ent point of view: with respect, with love, and with not to us. One day we will all unite in diversity. Some- acceptance.” - Pastor Phạm Đình Nhẫn of the United body asked: ‘Is it necessary for a third Vatican Council, Gospel Outreach. and how will it look?’ I think it will include all brothers and sisters here and I also look forward to that day and “After listening to Vassula’s witness talk, I was touched Nguyễn Văn Hiền deeply and had lots of questions on how we can reach pray for that day.” - Fr. Peter , Exec- Unity. I thank God for granting me a chance to meet utive Director of the Saigon Catholic Pastoral Center Vassula, a daughter of God, an Orthodox! Hope- fully we can stay under one roof, one faith, one Jesus Working for the Lord, with eagerness and an untir- Christ so that we can eat the same Bread and drink ing spirit, is what our Lord is asking from each one the same Cup God grants us. Thanks be to God and of us; not only from Vassula, but from all of us! We, to all priests, pastors, sisters and brothers for having who were guided to read our Lord’s messages, have a me here.” - Pastor Nguyễn Văn Kiêm of the Lutheran duty, an obligation; we have to become witnesses of Church His Divine messages, without thinking of ourselves first or of our interests, placing these above the Lord’s “First of all I’d like to thank the priests at the Pastoral House and His interests, because Christ did not think Center for their warm welcome to all pastors to this of Himself! We know, from Scriptures that people

Saigon Ecumenical Group with Vassula after the Meeting

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 25 who did not give up, were helped by God. We can seminate True Life in God, and defend the authen- see very clearly once again the powerful effect the ticity of the Messages. Above all, give glory to God. Messages have brought to the people of God, no mat- The Lord calls each one of us touched and converted ter where they came from, and who they were. The by True life in God to do it! We should remain unit- True Life in God mission continues spreading with ed and follow Jesus’ example so that united in mind the help of God to the four corners of the earth. The and voice we may give glory to God. True Life in God seeds have been planted now in Vietnam. The openness of the clergy who organized We thank TLIG Australia, TLIG Taiwan, TLIG Vassula’s meetings will hopefully spread True Life in Thailand, specially Fr. Francis Xavier Bao Loc, Fr. Pe- God throughout the minority Christian population ter Nguyen Van Hien, Sr. Frances Ha Thanh Tinh, Sr. of this country and beyond. M. John Bosco Dinh Kim Thanh (USA), and Sr. Ma- rie Rose Vu Loan for trusting us and providing space For all worldwide TLIG readers, associations, and for the True Life in God messages to be addressed by prayer groups, our mission is to first of all live the Vassula. May God bless the TLIG Vietnam organiz- Messages, pray for Christian unity, help Vassula dis- ers, volunteers and friends for all their efforts. You need this Book!

As a result of a An unbelievable restructuring price of only $16 of our book pricing, per book, plus $7 we can offer you the postage. We have Single Edition it available in Volume of the English TLIG Messages and Spanish [also known as the ONEbook]

And it gets better! If you get 2 books it’s also discounted - $30 for both copies - that comes down to $15 per book, plus $8 for postage [yes - - you will also save on postage!] And you will also save MORE on postage when you buy larger quantities. It makes great gifts for your friends and family all today C Canadian residents, 1-816-461-8888 please call for postal rates

26 TRUE LIFE IN GOD Vassula is an accomplished artist and she is now making prints available to us of original oil paintings she created. These oils were raffled off to those attending the Painted Pilgrimage in Greece to be able to cover the expenses of clergy invited to attend. Tereza Tectonidis is a learned designer and decorator and also produced two oil by Vassula paintings for the raffle and now prints are also available. These prints are full color and suitable for framing.

Our Lady with Jesus Ultimate Humility Jesus of the Shroud Jesus - Thorned Crown 12” x 15 3/4” 12” x 15 3/4” 12” x 15 3/4” 12” x 15 3/4”

Name of Picture No. Donation Total Each Pictures by Vassula Our Lady with Jesus 15 3/4” x 12” $15 © Copyright Vassula Ultimate Humility 12” x 15 3/4” $15 Jesus of the Shroud 12” x 15 3/4” $15 Ryden 2016 Jesus - Thorned Crown 12” x 15 3/4” - Vassula says that this picture is the most important in the $15 collection Ana Ali’s Photo of Jesus 10” x 12” All Rights Reserved Vassula says that this picture looks most like Jesus. $15 Jesus Christ after Crucifixion 12” x 12” $15 St. Catherine’s Byzantine Icon 12” x 12” $15 COPYRIGHT Pictures by Tereza Ana Ali’s Photo of Jesus Angel by Tereza 13 1/2” x 16 1/4” $15 10” x 12” St. Michael by Tereza 14 3/4” x 12” $15

Total Number of pictures ordered: Total Cost of Pictures: Shipping Charges: (USA only) 1 picture = $4.74 2 - 9 pictures = $8.18 [total] International Orders: Please call for postage rates Total Amount of Check made payable to: AATLIG Call 1-816- 461- 8888 for credit card orders

COPYRIGHT COPYRIGHT Mail your check or money AATLIG Jesus Christ after Crucifixion St. Catherine’s Byzantine Icon order to: P.O. Box 4230 12” x 12” 12” x 12” Independence, MO 64051 Important! PRINT CLEARLY! or Affix an Address Label Full Name:

Address 1:

Address 2:

City:

State: Zip: COPYRIGHT Country: COPYRIGHT E-mail: Phone:

Angel by Tereza 16 1/4” x 13 1/2” Overseas orders: please use website: www.paintedbyvassularyden.com, St. Michel by Tereza Call 1-816-461-8888, or email for postage details: [email protected] 16 3/4” x 13 1/2” Credit card orders please call 1-816-461-8888

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 27 China Beijing • Tangshan • Guangzhou By Travelling Companion Cecilia B. Lutz At the end of Vassula’s visit speaking in several churches to northern and southern and at a seminary in Hebei Italy in May of 2016, I was province in northern Chi- informed of her next mission na. This province is home to China in 2017. Cardi- to one million Catholics. nal Prospero Grech had en- The publishers of the TLIG couraged her to look toward messages are located in Shi- spreading the messages of jiazhuang, the capital city of True Life in God in Asian Hebei. Thanks to Fr. John countries, but she was wait- Baptist Zhang, the director ing to receive an invitation of Faith Press, along with an to do so. Soon afterwards, ardent TLIG reader, Luke however, Vassula had the un- Kn Lam, Vassula’s second CAPTION; Vassula & Fr. Joseph Iannuzzi take a believable experience of be- stroll in frosty but sunny Beijing with China with me visit to China was organized ing spotted on the terrace of (Cecilia Lutz) and organizers Luke & Marie. for the cities of Beijing, Tang- a restaurant shan, and Guangzhou. in Rome by a Chinese February 28 - Beijing nun who had been her Arriving at Beijing Airport with her traveling com- guide and panions, Fr. Joseph Iannuzzi and myself, Vassula was translator met by Luke Kn Lam who had flown from Guang- in Beijing, zhou in southern China. Marie-Madeleine Friberg, China back my daughter from TLIG Switzerland who had come in 2008. Sr. from Geneva, was also with us. Amidst the wintery Mary Jibao was so happy to see Vas- sula and told her that she must come to China again. The Lord was drawing the plan be- CAPTION; The Beijing West Church fore our very hosted Vassula’s first public meeting. eyes… After Sr. Mary returned to Beijing, all of Vassula’s friends who live in that part of the world took part in organizing this long-awaited return to the big- gest country in Asia. The TLIG Taiwan Association instantly raised the funds to cover all necessary ex- Vassula was greeted by Fr. Zhang (left) and penses for flights and accommodations, and more im- Fr. Simon (right) me (at Vassula’s portantly, continued their efforts towards translating right) and Marie. and publishing the TLIG messages in Mandarin, the dominant language of China. In 2008, Vassula brought True Life in God to China,

28 TRUE LIFE IN GOD cold and frosty winds of Beijing, Vassula began her mission with Fr. Joseph and the TLIG Beijing Team: Luke and Marie, from Beijing West Church. Vassula was welcomed by the parish priest of Beijing West Church, Fr. Zhang, together with many priests of the diocese, including Fr. Simon, parish priest of Beijing’s South Cathedral. Luke then started his heavy role as translator, since in many Asian countries especially China, English is not spoken. The Beijing audience intently listened to March 1 - West Church Public Meeting Vassula speak.

The West Church of Beijing is dedicated to Our Lady After the meeting, many books were sold and Fr. of Mount Carmel and is located in the western part Zhang, of Faith Press, publishers of the True Life in of the capital of China. It was built in 1723, by an God books since 2008, shared a delicious dinner with Italian priest and was destroyed three times by earth- us. He arranged for Vassula and Fr. Joseph to meet quakes. It is a beautiful church, well-preserved, and is the bishop of Haimen in Beijing the following day. a peaceful haven for its parishioners in this bustling city. Just before the 6:30 p.m. public meeting, Vassula and the organizers were surprised to hear that the church was full! Its 350 seats were fully occupied, with the remaining audience standing. Many were parishioners from the Beijing South Cathedral.

Vassula meets Fr. John B. Zhang of Faith Press.

March 2 - Vassula meets Bishop Joseph Bin

The church was filled with people from different Beijing parishes.

The Bishop of Haimen, His Excellency Joseph Bin Shen was happy to meet Vassula.

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 29 Shen

Accompanied by Fr. Zhang and Fr. Joseph, Vassula met the bishop of Haimen, His Excellency Joseph Bin Shen, who very warmly welcomed her and was so intrigued to hear of the many conversions that the Messages bring. Vassula told him about Padre Mil- heiro of TLIG Portugal who had translated and published the books in Portuguese many years ago. In his prison apostolate, he introduced and gave True Life in God books to the prisoners. Reading the Messages changed their lives and transformed their prisons into monasteries, as the inmates took down the earthly Fr. Joseph introduces Vassula and the messages at posters from their walls and replaced them with heav- the hall of the National Seminary enly ones. They read, prayed, and were filled with hope for their lives and for their families while undergoing repentance and purification, and by returning to ber 28, 2006. This seminary is the heart of the Chi- the Church and the Sacraments. Several books with nese Catholic Church. these prisoners’ testimonies have been printed, show- At the start of the meeting, Fr. Joseph spoke to the ing how the Messages brought them back to God. audience, which was comprised of seminarians and Bishop Joseph was very impressed with Vassula’s mis- some laypeople. As an exorcist, having obtained his sion and extended his assistance towards furthering doctorate in Dogmatic and Mystical Theology in translations, along with the publication of the TLIG Rome, he introduced the True Life in God messages One Book in Chinese. of Our Lord Jesus Christ given to the mystic, Vassula Rydén. “A mystic is someone through whom God March 2 - Meeting at the National Semi- speaks,” Father Joseph explained. nary of the Catholic Church, Beijing He cited the Catholic catechism: “‘The Christian economy, therefore, since it is the new and definitive China’s Catholic Church announced the opening of Covenant, will never pass away; and no new public the country’s largest seminary in Beijing on Septem- revelation is to be expected before the glorious mani- festation of our Lord Jesus Christ.’ Yet even if Rev- elation is already complete, it has not been completely explicit; it remains for Christian faith gradually to grasp its full significance over the course of the centuries.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 66) Fr. Joseph explained: “In this article one discovers the progressive disclosure (explication) of public revelation. If, on the one hand, this article relates that Jesus revealed to us everything we need for salvation, no new ‘public’ revelation (the Deposit of Faith) is to be expected; on the other hand, it affirms that not everything in the public revelation of Christ was revealed to us ‘explicitly’! Concerning Jesus’ unexplicated doctrines, I recall Jesus’ words to his disciples before departing from this world: “I still have many things to say to you, but they would be too much for you to bear now. However, when the Spirit of truth comes, he will teach you all the truth since he will not be speaking of his Vassula was welcomed by the own accord, but will say only what he has been told; and rector of the seminary, Fr. Zhao. he will reveal to you the things to come.” ( John 16:12-

30 TRUE LIFE IN GOD did .... My Eyes see what I never wanted to see and My Ears hear what I dreaded to ever hear! My Heart, as a Father sinks with grief; I fashioned man in the likeness of My Image, yet they have degraded themselves and today, so many of them have taken the likeness of the Beast! their heart is so filled with lust, lawlessness, arrogance and perversion! their mouth is accustomed to cry out high and low abusive words; they swear against all heaven to make Vassula speaks to the seminarians. war against Me and against My Son .... ah .... they do all that My Heart detests; very often My Hand reaches out to My Cup that brims over with My Justice ….” (TLIG 13) True Life in God is God’s Work revealed to us in Messages, April 15,1996) our times through the Holy Spirit.” What God likes is to hear priests talk Vassula introduced herself as a person coming from about His sweetness, remembering David’s the Greek Orthodox Church, but living a life with- Psalms. He says it is a pity to die without having out God. Nonetheless, through her Guardian Angel, tasted the sweetness of God. Everyone believes in God called her in 1985. She had no catechism; all God, but not everyone loves God. To know God and she learned from then on was from Jesus. So we ask, understand God is one of the richest spiritual gifts why did God come to her? She didn’t pray nor go to one can get. Vassula went on by speaking about True church…why? His answer was: “Wretchedness attracts Life in God’s other main themes: Unceasing Prayer, Me. Through your wretchedness I will show My Mercy, Equality of Love, and Christian Unity. The seminar- through your nothingness I will show My Power and that ians and laypeople were mesmerized by Vassula’s talk, I Am.” (cf. TLIG Messages, March 30, 1987 and Oc- and eager for the follow-up Question & Answer ses- tober 20, 1994) sion:

Jesus formed her so as to give His Message to the Question and Answer Session entire world, to an apostatized generation. He said, “christianize a de-christianized population!” (TLIG 1. Q: Is the second Pentecost based on the Bible or Messages, February 2, 1999) He then prepared her on your writings? and sent her out to 85 countries to give His Message A: Pope John XXIII was praying to Jesus for the of True Life in God. Unity of the Churches and for the second Pentecost. “I do not come by force upon you with My Holy Spirit to Thirty years ago, laypeople never thought of form- violate your liberty, nor do I come to condemn you; I come ing prayer groups and praying. Today, there are many to you out of Mercy to give you freely the fullest Knowl- prayer groups: St. Padre Pio, St. Faustina, etc. Many edge of My Will; through My Perfect Wisdom I come to laypeople are searching for God. Through True Life augment in you the Knowledge I Myself have given you; in God, there are many prayer groups around the I do not come to add new things into that which has been world, as there is a thirst for God like never before. given you already, but I come to place My Kingdom in the Laypeople receive gifts from the Holy Spirit. Why? middle of your hearts;” (TLIG Messages, June 2, 1991) Because God sees that the world has turned completely evil. We are now living in the End of Times Vassula spoke of the Holy Spirit’s role in relation to which St. Paul talks about in 2 Thessalonians 2. The repentance and in discerning God’s Will for each one two signs indicating that we are at the end of this ep- of us. In the Messages, one learns what repentance och are the apostasy & the spirit of rebellion. is - the soul must repudiate its evil thoughts and evil acts as well. If a person is humble, the Holy Spirit will 2. Q: What can we do to prepare for the second easily find His Way in that person. He will shatter all Pentecost? imperfections so as to prepare the person for union A: Tell the people about the sweetness of God. with God. 3. Q: What does knowing God and understanding Vassula went on by speaking about the great apostasy God mean? in our times, how disappointed God is in our generation. He says, “I look at the earth today and wish I never A: In Jeremiah 9: 22-23, God tells the prophet

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 31 that He is not impressed with a valiant man for his God and many other theologians like Fr. O’Carroll, valor, or a rich man for his riches. What He likes is Fr. O’Connor, Msgr. Laurentin, and Fr. Joseph have someone who knows and understands Him; for God written books on the Messages. If it were for Satan, this is important. The more we penetrate into God, there would have been no conversions, and the Mes- the more we understand Him. sages would not have lasted thirty-three years.

4. Q: We want to do God’s Will; but within us, do March 4 - Tangshan, Hebei Province we truly respond to His Will?

A: First of all, repentance is needed. We must give our will to God; abandon ourselves completely; give all your heart. Once He has your heart, He can guide you. The Lord says: “die to yourself, die to your ego … lower your voice so you can hear My Voice.” (cf. TLIG Messages, June 19, 1995)

5. Q: Can you tell us about the Notification?

A: It was clarified in 2004 by the then Cardinal Ratz- inger in the CDF. You can find many articles concerning the notification and the clarification by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger on the TLIG.org Satan can make website. http:// miracles, but can tlig.org/down- NEVER bring back loads/en/cdf.pdf souls to the That article has the official July sacraments. 10, 2004 letter and clarification. It has now been thirty-three years since I was called by God, and since then, there has been manifested much good fruit. We have had thousands of conversions and the converted people all go back to the sacraments of the Church. Satan can make The Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Tangshan miracles, but can NEVER bring back souls to the sacraments. Cardinal Ratzinger approved True Life in Tangshan is an industrial town, located 180 kilome- ters from Beijing. On arrival at the Tangshan Steel Hotel, Vassula was met by the Vicar General of the Tangshan Diocese, Fr. John Ren and the parish priest of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Fr. Peter Hua, where Vassula was invited to speak on Sunday after the 8:30 a.m. Mass. The Immaculate Conception Cathedral was built after the great 1976 earthquake which devastated the city and caused over two hundred thousand deaths. The Roman Catholic population in the Tangshan Diocese is now thirty thousand, of which six thousand live in the city of Tang- shan. Thirty eight priests are now serving the diocese.

Fr. John Ren shared with us the history of Christianity in China. In the 7th century, Christianity entered China through the Silk Road, during the Tang Dynasty. It was Tangshan’s Vicar General Fr. John Ren & Parish brought by Persians involved in the Nestorian heresy. In Priest Fr. Peter Hua welcomed Vassula. 1953, during the Cultural Revolution of Mao Tse Tung, Christian churches and Buddhist temples were destroyed,

32 TRUE LIFE IN GOD missionaries were expelled, and priests were jailed. In the eighties, after Mao’s death, the people were again allowed to come out of hiding and worship. They were filled with fervor to rebuild their churches. Nonetheless, relations be-

Caption; Vassula was so warmly welcomed.

introduced True Life in God and all its themes. The priests were so happy to have Vassula Although the interior of this awesomely beautiful cathe- in their Cathedral. dral was freezing cold, one could feel the warmth and ap- preciation of the people of Tangshan to have God’s mes- tween Church and State remain strained.

March 5 - Public Meeting in Tangshan Cathedral

After the 8:30 a.m. Mass, about 400 parishioners remained in the church to hear Vassula’s talk. Fr. Joseph presented

True Life in God books for sale in Chinese

senger come to their city and speak of God’s Love for all His children.

March 7 - Guangzhou

At the onset of plans for Vassula to visit China, Sr. Augustine of TLIG Taiwan recommended Luke Kn Lam to be Vassula’s interpreter. Luke had attended The audience of Tangshan parishioners the TLIG retreat in Loutraki in May of 2016, and was happy that Vassula would visit his country. He was ready to assist in any way. When we found out a brief introduction, and after Vassula recited the Lord’s Prayer in Aramaic, she began her talk by stating the fact he was from Guangzhou in southern China, Vassula that God purposefully brought her to the people of Tang- accepted the invitation to speak in that city. shan as a postman who delivers God’s love letter to the entire world. It is interesting to know that like the majority of Chi- nese today, living in China after the Cultural Revo- The audience listened intently to Vassula as she gave lution which suppressed all religions, Luke was an witness to her experience of God’s call in her life, and Atheist. He came to the Catholic Church because of his attraction to prayer and the Liturgy. About four years ago, a catechist whose prayers impressed

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 33 him very much, told him about True Life in God and recommended the Messages. In the beginning, the writings appeared to him very soft and syrupy, and had a too feminine tone for his liking…until some- time later. When he learned to pray the rosary regu- larly, his heart opened to the Messages. He immersed himself in True Life in God and learned to pray from his heart; he learned to know God and understand what He wants. The reason he is on fire to promul- gate the Messages of True Life in God is very simple; he says that God is speaking to us; we should listen to Him and respond to Him. Luke is now a warrior for True Life in God. Just before the public meeting, Vassula speaks to a pastor from the Union Church By the time Vassula reached Guangzhou, there was news of opposition against her by some clergy in Bei- During her talk, Vassula introduced the One Book jing. The Catholic bishop of Guangzhou whom Luke English edition of the Messages to the audience. had contacted earlier and who seemed open to the Only four volumes of the TLIG Messages have been Messages, suddenly avoided him. The parish priest of translated in Chinese. An effort is underway towards the church who was scheduled to receive Vassula for a the translation of all twelve volumes and the creation public meeting closed his doors! This is not unusual of the One Book in Chinese. for Vassula’s mission. In the 31 years of her mission, having traveled to eighty-five countries and having given over one thousand talks, Vassula has always ex- perienced persecution and opposition as part of the program. News of the 1995 Notification is always a focus, but the fact that the Congregation of the Doc- trine of the Faith under then Cardinal Ratzinger had studied the Messages for two and a half years and had clarified all the questions is totally ignored. In No- vember 2004, Cardinal Ratzinger personally received Vassula to tell her the Notification had been modified. In 2005, the Imprimatur and Nihil Obstat were given to the Messages. None of these positive updates are Vassula shows the audience the One brought to light. Book edition of the Messages Fr. Joseph Iannuzzi immediately responded to this opposition by sending all the documents needed in All four translated volumes and the TLIG Prayer defense of Vassula and True Life in God. Of course, Guides were sold in bundles. We hope TLIG prayer at this point the plans for the public meeting were groups will be formed in China. The great enthusiasm demolished, and the organizer, Luke, had to find an of the audiences in Beijing, Tangshan, and Guangzhou alternative venue at the last minute. A conference indicate a great potential towards the dissemination of room was found at the other side of town, and many True Life in God and its Messages in China. who knew of the Messages and wanted to hear Vas- We thank Luke and Fr. John B. Zhang for having sula speak were not able to come. All is in the Lord’s organized these events which provided this opportu- Hands. We had done our best; He will do the rest. nity for Vassula to witness for True Life in God in Guangzhou Public Meeting China. Our thanks also go to His Excellency Bishop Joseph Bin Shen for welcoming Vassula and her mis- Before the start of the meeting, Vassula was intro- sion. We also thank the parish priests of the churches duced to a pastor, the Rev. Lianshan Pei, who is a pro- that received Vassula, Marie and Paul of Beijing West fessor of Church History in the Guangdong Union Church Parish, along with the laypeople who helped Theological Seminary. and showed their hospitality to Vassula, Fr. Joseph, Marie-Madeleine Friberg, and me.

34 TRUE LIFE IN GOD Australia Melbourne • Sydney By Travelling Companion Rebecca Khachigan What a wonderful visit we had by our Lord through Melbourne, themed Tender Father. Vassula’s visit to Melbourne and Sydney. Through her visit, many lives were impacted. We sensed a great Vassula and Fr. Iannuzzi arrived a day before the remove of God through the Holy Spirit in the Great treat and were invited by friends for dinner. During South Land. the dinner there was mention of a lady who was in the hospital with not much time to live. Vassula offered It was by divine appointment that the Lord sent Vas- to pray for this lady in the hospital. When we arrived, sula on this trip accompanied by Fr. Joseph Iannuzzi, a the lady was surrounded by her children and other doctoral alumnus of the Gregorian Pontifical Univer- relatives who were very sad for her condition. Fr. Ian- sity and noted theologian. Their mission was twofold: nuzzi administered the Sacrament of the Anointing to participate in the third True Life in God (TLIG) of the Sick and anointed her with oil. Vassula prayed, Australian retreat and to hold a public meeting in holding the crucifix for the lady who was filled with Sydney. hope to see her. They concluded by praying a blessing on the relatives surrounding her. TLIG Retreat in Melbourne, March 17- 19 On Friday, the delegates started to arrive at the hotel. Some needed to be picked up from Melbourne air- The retreat was held in the Mantra hotel in Preston, port. Imagine how delighted and surprised they were to find Vassula waiting for them in the passenger seat with the driver who came to collect them. Everyone present was enjoying her sense of humor and chatting with her on their way to the hotel. Friday Night, March 17 It was a very joyful occasion for friends from all over

The theme of the retreat was Tender Father. This picture was used on the front of the program booklet. Some of the priests and international guests at dinner with Vassula

Australia, with some from New Zealand, Solomon Is- lands and Malaysia, who came together once again for a TLIG retreat. This retreat was significant as it was the first time we had Vassula as our guest of honor. There were six clergy present from different denominations. Fr. Iannuzzi began with a talk about the TLIG messages from a Canon Law perspective, explaining how Main Retreat Image he first heard about the messages in 1989. He de- TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 35 lighted the listeners with his down-to-earth sense of humor and very valuable information to empower the whole Body of Christ. He gave us factual information about the position of the Church towards Vassu- la and the TLIG messages, encouraging us to spread the message boldly as it has received the two seals of Imprimatur and Nihil Obstat. To paraphrase his words

A time of Adoration; the Monstrance held high by Fr. Bernard, with Fr. Iannuzzi (right)

It was an early start to the day with the Sacrament of Confession and Reconciliation followed by Holy Mass and Adoration, with some of the faithful leading in heavenly song. This was followed by a rich meal of talks from Vassula

Fr. Iannuzzi encouraged the attendees to confidently witness the TLIG message explaining the ‘Seals of Approval’

on the Catholic Church’s stance towards the TLIG messages, ‘Christians must not set themselves up as their own judge in deciding whether these messages are authentic and must abstain from publicly con- demning them, when the Magisterium has granted Around 200 guests attended the Melbourne retreat; these seals of approval.’ a group photo outside the hotel.

Following Fr. Iannuzzi’s introduction, Vassula was and Fr. Iannuzzi. After the talks, Vassula and all the welcomed by enthusiastic applause. Many were very priests prayed by laying hands on most of those who appreciative that Vassula traveled the distance to be attended, around 200. After these prayers, there was a with us, since it is a challenge for many to travel over- book signing of Heaven is Real, But so is Hell and other seas from our distant country. Vassula spoke of her items from the bookstall. recent travels to the Middle East. Prior to her visiting us, her travels to witness about the messages had been In the evening during dinnertime, we listened to tes- constant for several months, which highlighted how timonies from individuals who have been converted urgent God’s warning is to the world. How incredible and healed through the TLIG messages. One man, that the Lord sent her to Syria and Lebanon, despite who could hardly walk, needing support when he ar- all the dangers, to meet the Muslim imams: Sunni, rived at the retreat, was able to stand and walk up to Shiite and Druze! Through the report of her recent the stage after he received the healing prayer earlier mission, it was evident to us that the love of God is that day. One lady spoke of how she saw Jesus walk reaching out to all people and Vassula is His instru- alongside Vassula on her visit to Adelaide many years ment of love and peace to all humanity. ago. Another lady gave her testimony on how the Lord saved her life and freed her from drug addic- Saturday, March 18 tion. There were several other inspiring testimonies.

36 TRUE LIFE IN GOD It touched our hearts to hear how Our Lord searches who felt that there was a demonic influence causing for the lost with so much tenderness. We also heard this problem. After they received healing prayers, from Fr. Bernard, a Benedictine priest from Sydney, they were filled with so much hope and joy. We also who attended the whole retreat and gave a wonderful learned that the husband was the grandson of the lady talk. There was a sense of peace, beauty and majesty who had received prayers in the hospital. With much on this day, as we ended the evening joining hands in gladness, they received news that their grandmother song and dance to the hymn Thoxa, Thoxa! had recovered and her blood count was miraculously back to normal. Praise be to the Lord Jesus! Sunday, March 19 TLIG Public Meeting, Sydney, March 20 Again, as the previous day, we began the day early with Confession, Reconciliation and Holy Mass. The On Monday evening a public meeting was held, with clergy celebrated the Eucharist around one table, as many new people attending. It began with songs of God the Father desires. Fr. Bernard presided and praise, then Fr. Iannuzzi followed by introducing Vas- gave a beautiful homily. Following Holy Mass, Fr. John, an Anglican priest from the Solomon Islands, gave an emotional talk of the miracles which had allowed him and his two com- patriots to attend the retreat only at the last minute. In the words of one of the delegates, upon reflection of Fr. John’s talk: “The Sunday short speech given by the Anglican minister from the Solomon Islands was a decided high- light because it imbued one of the major themes of the TLIG messages: the humility of this minister, with tears running down his cheeks, exposing a heart full of love for his people, full of love and gratitude for Vassula and God’s messages, and in particular the call Vassula addresses the crowd at the Sydney for Christian unity. It struck me that his profound meeting on Monday humility, his open love-filled heart, and simplicity and sincerity of heart, together with his conviction to work towards Christian unity, is what our Lord is asking of us all. His few simple and sincere words moved me mightily!!! Listening to this Anglican minister from the Solomon Islands reminded me yet again of our tendency to overcomplicate God and His Messages!!! What does God want most of all--a simple, sincere contrite heart with a humble spirit.” Towards the end of the retreat, Vassula reminded the participants that God wants them to do whatever they could to spread the messages. She gave the analogy that some people have a big glass (i.e., many talents), while some people have only a small glass (i.e., not as many talents). God wants us to have our glass full as a measure of our contribution to His work. No mat- sula and the messages. People were so in awe when ter whether our glass is big or small, we should do they listened to Vassula’s speech, one could hear a pin our best. Vassula acknowledged the hard work of the drop in the hall. The meeting was streamed-live and organizers of the retreat and urged others to be more many who had attended the retreat from other cit- proactive in the evangelization and organization for ies did not miss-out on watching it. This meeting is events for TLIG. still available to watch on YouTube. As the meeting drew to a close, Vassula lifted the small crucifix and Vassula was then approached by a young married prayed for the people collectively, with Fr. Iannuzzi couple who have been trying, but unable to conceive, praying beside her. Several people reported seeing

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 37 three flashes of supernatu- ium in Darling Harbour. ral light while they prayed. The timing was amazing, After the meeting, the as after we finished our bookstall was very busy. walk in the city it started For the first time after a to rain heavily. We spent scheduled public meeting, the final evening together the designated True Life not wanting to say good- in God phone did not stop bye. Fr. Iannuzzi bade ringing with follow-up farewell to each one of us, phone calls from people exhorting us as apostles of who had previously never the End of Times, leaving heard about the messages us with feelings of elation and who were grateful to be serving our Lord in that God called them to His Australian vineyard. this meeting. Vassula and Fr. Iannuzzi Fr Iannuzzi enjoying The Lord’s creature: a kangaroo left on the following day Tuesday, March 21 for their next mission to On our final day together, Vassula and Fr. Iannuzzi the Philippines. spent a day of fellowship and relaxation with some True Life in God Australia would like to thank Vas- of the organizers who prepared for her visit. We sula for visiting Australia and so generously spending walked from St. Mary’s Cathedral down to the Syd- her time with us to share God’s Love Hymn to hu- ney Opera House, and had lunch at Sydney Tower, manity. Our warmest thanks also to Fr. Iannuzzi for while enjoying its panoramic views. Following lunch, his efforts to be with and encourage us here down un- some of the group took Father and Vassula to see der. All glory, praise and honor to the Blessed Trinity! some of our Australian wildlife at the Sydney Aquar-

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38 TRUE LIFE IN GOD A Newly Published Message from Jesus August 10, 2015 T h e L o r d w a n t s u s t o b e i n t i m at e w i t h H i m daughter of Egypt, peace be with you; in your youth you had refused to listen to My Voice; but I said in My Heavenly Courts: ‘I will seduce her before her hairs turn grey; I will toil in her and in a short time, I will bless and anoint what was once an unlawful being; yes, this is My Plan in her; then from a barren tree I will turn her into a fruitful tree with medicinal leafs; I also say to you as one of My pupils: do not fear, grow in your Teacher’s Foot- prints, I need you to be perfect! do not be afraid from all those who, for their interests, will try to discourage you, daughter, there are sayings in My Messages that are yet covered, but the day will come that what lies hidden will be brought to light and what lies covered will be uncovered; I say this to you so that when anyone tries to interpret My sayings, do wrong, yes, those sayings that are still in the dark, for their interpretation is wrong; this seed that I have planted in you shall save many souls; therefore, teach what you have understood through the Light of My Spirit; Vassula, I have heard you say: ‘the Lord wants us to be intimate with Him;’ has anybody not yet understood how I cherish your intimacy with Me? what did I say then to Simon who invited Me to his house and was scandalized when he saw Mary being intimate with Me? I said, ‘Simon you have not welcomed Me by pouring water over My feet, but she has poured out her tears over My feet and wiped them away with her hair; you did not kiss Me as I entered your house, but she has covered My feet with kisses all along; you did not anoint My Head with oil, but she anointed My feet with ointment;’ - tell Me, what is religion? religion is when you have promised God to be dedicated to Him, committed to God, filled with trust and faith until the end comes, but never without love in you; for love forgives your sins; love is man’s constant calling; so no man should be surprised when I co-operate with those who love Me, with all those I have anointed and called to be My prophets, and for any other purpose; ah, there is one more thing; I heard your friend ask you a question to which I will answer: ‘if God is good, why is there so much suffering?’ by My divine power I have given you all the things that you need for life – to be happy – however, how many in this world gave Me true devotion? devotion is lacking, and when devotion is not there, this alone alienates one to know Me and understand Me;1 I have called everyone by My own glory and goodness to be good; I have never ceased giving you gifts, gifts that will enable you to share the divine nature, escaping corruption in this world full of corruption and vice; but love is missing in this world, replaced by all sorts of vices that are self destructive, not only on your soul but on your body as well; you are suffering by your own fault, and from your own hand...not Mine; I am your Refuge, your Saviour and your Stronghold! when anyone calls out to Me, be reassured, I Am with him... ic Love loves you... 1. In other words it is from our apostasy that we suffer and die, as the Lord had said in the past. We are self-destroying ourselves. Vassula is publishing for the first time messages she received in 2015 and 2016. The messages can be viewed or downloaded at: http://www.tlig.net/NewTLIGmsgs.pdf. These messages will eventually be incorporated into the TLIG website and indexed at http://www. tlig.org/en/messages/recent/. Further messages will be published on the internet as well as in print as soon as practical.

TLIG MAGAZINE ISSUE - 38 39 BETH MYRIAM FEEDS THE POOR There are 24 Beth Myriams currently func- tioning in 16 countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, USA and Europe serving about half a million meals in 2014 to socially disadvan- taged children, orphans, families, homeless, sick, elderly and those forgotten in the slums, regardless of their nationality, creed or social background. The Beth Myriams provide cold and hot meals, often accompanied by clothing, medical treatment and schooling. www.tlig.org

Please note that this edition of the Magazine is a reprint of the American Issue produced in the USA. Consequently, prices and availability of advertised items may vary. However, most items are available for purchase from the TLIG Buckingham website at: www.tligbuckingham.org.uk 01280 860308 [email protected]

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TLIG Magazine is edited by Fr. Joe Iannuzzi and Fr. Vincent Cossati