WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO MEDJUGORJE How to Prepare for Your Pilgrimage: Thank you for your desire and readiness to visit these places of grace and prayer. May the Almighty God, through the intercession of our Heavenly Mother, reward you for all the efforts you undertake to come! As we would like your trip to be as pleasant and helpful as possible, it is important to note that 206 Tours pilgrimages are packed full of spiritual activities and sightseeing. We do not include much free time for recreation, such as shopping. This is because our desire is to offer you the most comprehensive pilgrimage possible. However, all tours/activities are optional, and if you feel you are unable to keep up with the pace of the tour, manage the terrain, or would like free time for your own interests, you are welcome to refrain from participating in any aspects of the program you desire (of course, no refund can be issued for any aspects of the tour which you choose not to participate in). It is also important to note that the amount of walking is significant, and the terrain varies greatly through out our tours. You will encounter hills, mountains, unpaved streets, cobblestone streets, etc. Especially in Medjugorje, many streets are not paved, and walking is necessary to visit most of the sites included in the pilgrimage. Cross Mountain and Apparition Hill are very steep and rocky. Please prayerfully consider whether or not you are up to such physical activities prior to registering. For this reason, we would like to offer you some recommendations, and we ask you sincerely to read them carefully. A couple of weeks before your pilgrimage, one should begin preparing physically as well as spiritually. 1 - If not accustomed to physical activity begin walking "briskly" 1-2 times a day; build up to 2-3 miles with no discomfort. 2 - If possible attend daily mass or attempt to spend quiet time in church during lunch or after work. 3 - Pray for Jesus and His Blessed Mother to open your heart and mind to be responsive to new perspectives, ideas, their words laid on your heart, etc. 4 - Begin praying the rosary daily (Learn How to Pray the Rosary) or at least the Apostle's Creed, 7 Our Father's, 7 Hail Mary's & 7 Glory Be's as Our Lady has requested; this takes about 5-7 minutes. General Info About Your Documents, Flights, Arrival & Travel: Final Documents: 206 Tours will ship your final documents to the address provided on your reservation application approximately 2-3 weeks prior to your scheduled departure date. The package will be delivered by FedEx (can not be delivered to a PO Box). Your final documents will include your airline tickets, hotel confirmations, emergency contacts, general trip information, luggage tags, portfolio of travel documents, flight bag, and more. Carefully review your tickets to ensure that your name on the tickets are an exact match to that of your passport. Please note that the name field on your tickets is only 19 characters long, therefore names exceeding this length will be cut off (this is not a problem, as your actual reservation contains your full name). Please also carefully review the itinerary provided to ensure that all departure and destination cities, as well as dates, are correct. Please contact 206 Tours immediately should any discrepancies be found. * Please note that late payment/bookings can cause delay in the shipment of your final documents. International Flights: We recommend that you check in for your international flight three hours prior to the scheduled departure time. Passengers must personally check their luggage at the airline counter. Please advise the airline representative of your final destination upon check in so that you will not need to claim your baggage and recheck it during flight connections. Please note that our pilgrims travel from across the USA. You will be traveling independently for all flights until your arrival at your final destination. You will not have a tour escort with you during your flights. Please be advised that 206 Tours attempts to centralize as many pilgrims as possible on the same flights, so you may arrive/depart on the same flights as many of your co-pilgrims (for additional information see "Arrival Procedure" below). Airline Tickets: Most airlines now require that we provide e-tickets in place of paper tickets. At check-in, you should be ready to provide your flight itinerary and passport to the agent. In a few cases where e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive your tickets in a paper form. Please note that paper tickets, and boarding passes, must be present in order to check in, and or board the plane. . Code-share Flights: Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Air France), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Delta). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other

than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or 206 Tours for clarification. Airline Connections: 206 Tours must book your airline reservations based on the routings provided to us by the airlines, including connection time, cities for connections, and partner carriers. Airlines determine the standard for the required minimum connecting time to transfer from one gate to another for each specific airport. At times, the connection times provided by the airlines are quite tight (i.e. 55 minutes) and require passengers to make haste during their connections. At times the airline connection times are quite long, due to the flight availability at the time of booking. While we wish we could determine the connection times for each of our clients, we are subject to the rules, regulations, and availability of the carriers we work with. We also must ensure that all reservations correspond so that each participant is able to meet the group transfer to/from the airport to hotel and hotel to airport. We promise to do all in our power to provide you with the most convenient flight schedule available to us at the time of your booking, however, we must still follow all appropriate airline rules and regulations. Airline Mileage Accounts: Please contact the airline directly to open a mileage account and to obtain credit for the miles flown on this trip. Passports and Visas: All U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter. Your passport MUST be valid for 3 months after your return date. For information on obtaining a US passport please visit: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html. A visa is not required for US, Canada, and Western European. If you do not hold a US, Canadian, or Western European passport please consult all the consulates of the countries you will be traveling through to obtain rules and regulations pertaining to visas. NON US, Canada or Europe Passport Holders may be required to obtain a visa for Croatia as well as Bosnia- Herzegovina, as some of the flights/ routings will take our groups through Croatia (Dubrovnik or Split) to Medjugorje, which is located in Bosnia. Please note that your flights are in/out of Dubrovnik, which is in Croatia, however, Medjugorje is located in Bosnia, therefore you will actually be "visiting" 2 countries. US or Canadian citizens do not need to obtain visas for Croatia or Bosnia. When and if visa is required it is passenger’s responsibility to obtain one. Please note that obtaining a visa (especially for Bosnia) can be very difficult and usually takes a minimum of 6 weeks to complete. Please be certain to take this into consideration PRIOR to registering. Cancellations due to lack of appropriate travel documents will incur usual penalties. click here for information on obtaining a visa for Bosnia. In this case pilgrims must obtain visas for both countries. However, if your flights are strictly booked into and out of Sarajevo only Bosnia and Herzegovina Visa is required. Link to Bosnia and Herzegovina Consulate or Embassy is: www.bhembassy.org Link to Croatia Consulate or Embassy is: www.croatiaemb.org When and if visa is required it is passenger’s responsibility to obtain one. Cancellations due to lack of appropriate travel documents will incur usual penalties. Health Precautions: No inoculations are necessary. Although water is safe, avoid the tap water, including ice cubes. Your stomach may still become upset due to the change in diet. Bring anti-diarrhea medicine just in case. For the latest overseas travel health information, call the Center for Disease Control's travelers' hotline at 404-332-4559. Or visit their web site at www.cdc.gov. Travel Warnings: US State Department Travel Advisories: To get to the current travel warnings in the world visit : http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.htmlArrival Procedure: After disembarkation from the plane you will clear immigration, and proceed to claim your luggage. You will exit the baggage claim into the arrival lounge where you will be greeted by driver and/or your Tour Escort displaying a board or sign with your name and/or "206 Tours” If your miss your flight or if you are re-routed there is a chance you will miss the group transfer which is included in your package. In such circumstances you will need to pay for your separate private transfer, which you may submit a claim to your travel insurance or to the airlines for reimbursement upon your return to the USA. 206 Tours will do all possible to arrange for a private transfer to meet you upon your arrival (if we are aware of your misconnection/arrival flight), however, you will be responsible to remit payment to your driver upon drop off at your destination. If you arrive in one of the previously mentioned

destinations, and we have not been able to arrange for a driver to meet you, please call your local emergency contact (listed in your Final Instruction Booklet) so that they may dispatch a transfer for you. If you opt to take a taxi please remember to save your receipts. We strongly recommend the purchase of Traveler's Insurance (www.206tours.com/insurance). Luggage: It is suggested that you attempt to travel with only one piece of luggage. Please be advised that the airlines charge significant fees for oversized/overweight baggage. One carry on bag is also allowed. An average sized woman's purse does not count as a carry on. Make sure to use your luggage tags and clearly write your contact information on all luggage and carry-on bags. ALL baggage will be searched prior to loading the plane as per new airline and government regulations so luggage locks are not advisable (as they will be broken if security does not posses a master key from the manufacturer). Starting September 1, 2006, on routes where the piece concept applies for checked baggage, the flat fee for each baggage piece exceeding 50lbs. (23kg) has been changed from US$/EUR 25 to US$ 50/EUR 40. International air carriers are becoming stricter about the size and weight of baggage and carry-on luggage. Please contact your air carrier or travel agent for specific information prior to departure as size and weight limitations vary from airline to airline and even according to destination. For your own comfort and that of fellow passengers, please limit the size of your hand luggage to 17x14x8 in. (43x36x20 cm) for easy storage on the motorcoach. For safety reasons, no wheeled hand luggage of any size should be kept inside the motorcoach. Porterage for one suitcase on tour is included in the tour price. Due to limited coach capacity, this single bag should have dimensions not exceeding 45 in overall dimensions (length+width+height) and weight not exceeding 50 lbs (23 kg). A charge of USD 3 per traveling day will be collected by the Tour Director if a second piece of baggage is carried, or if the suitcase exceeds the established weight and/or dimensions. For health reasons, porters may refuse to carry very heavy suitcases. Effective Tuesday, September 26, TSA Is Adjusting The Ban On Liquids, Aerosols And Gels There are two major changes:

1. Travelers may now carry through security checkpoints travel-size toiletries (3 ounces or less) that fit comfortably in ONE, QUART-SIZE, clear plastic, zip-top bag.

2. After clearing security, travelers can now bring beverages and other items purchased in the secure boarding area on-board aircraft.

At the checkpoint travelers will be asked to remove the zip-top bag of liquids and place it in a bin or on the conveyor belt. X-raying separately will allow TSA security officers to more easily examine the declared items. In addition, larger amounts of prescription liquid medications, baby formula and diabetic glucose treatments must be declared at the checkpoint for additional screening. It is unlikely that additional changes in the liquid, aerosol and gel policy will be made in the near future. This security regimen applies to all domestic and international flights departing U.S. airports. Travelers should, however, check with transportation security authorities in their country-of-origin for flights originating at non-U.S. airports.For more details on how these measures affect you read our questions and answers on the new measures. Security Measure Questions and Answers or / and http://www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/9-25_updated_passenger_guidance.shtm

Carry all documents and money on your person but not all in the same place to limit the inconvenience in case of loss; do not keep money, important documents, medicines or jewelry in your suitcase; please leave valuable jewelry at home. We recommend a money belt worn inside your clothes, while touring. On departure from your hotel, remember to double check that you have your money belt with you, and that you have collected any items left in the hotel safe. Please, at all times, be as vigilant as you would be in any major city, especially in crowded places such as subways, squares or churches/cathedrals. Never leave your hand luggage unattended or out of sight in public areas, including airports, hotel lobbies or dining rooms. Be sure to keep ALL medications in your carry on bag during your trip in case your suit case should be lost. Keep a separate list of important numbers, i.e. passport, traveler’s checks, and credit cards, in your luggage, together with photocopies of airline tickets and the relevant pages of your passport/visas. The same common-sense rules of safety and security apply here as to anywhere else:

• Avoid excessive displays of jewelry or cash (only carry sufficient for daily needs)

• Make 2 copies of passport. Leave 1 at home (US) and 1 in a separate bag • Make certain that you always have the name, location and telephone of place where staying • Make certain that any valuables are insured against theft • Avoid exploration on your own of unfamiliar streets or areas

How to Overcome Jet Lag: Rapid travel through multiple time zones can take its toll on your physical and mental well-being. "Jet Lag" is the phrase used to describe the condition when an individual's internal body clock is out of sync with the actual time in the region to which you have traveled. It is important to try to adjust your internal body clock to receive the most out of your tour. Here are some tips on how to adjust your body to local time. On the day of the flight/arrival:

• Get out of bed earlier than usual. • Eat a high carbohydrate dinner (e.g. pasta, potatoes, etc.) • Drink a lot of water to compensate for the dehydration that is common on long flights. • Shortly after your evening meal on your flight, set your watch ahead to Portugal's actual time. • Try to rest or sleep as soon as possible on your flight. • When you arrive in it will be late afternoon (local time). Keep active, and go to bed around 10:00 PM

Insurance: Please note that traveler's insurance is STRONGLY recommended for all 206 Tours pilgrims. Be advised that traveler's insurance can not be purchased after you have paid in full for your trip. For those who have purchased Tripmate Travelers Insurance through 206 Tours a pamphlet will be included in your final documents. Please refer to this brochure for specific stipulations or questions. For more information you can also visit www.206tours.com/insurance. Value Added Tax (VAT): There is 17% value added tax on most goods and services in Portugal and France. At retail stores, this tax is always already included in the price. Upon making a purchase of $ 50.00 or more at a gift store that has an agreement wit the VAT authorities, you should fill out a form at the store and have it s tamped there. You will be eligible, upon presenting the form and the item, for a 17% refund at the airport prior to departure. Do not pack these gift items in your luggage. They should be kept in your hand luggage. By the way, tourist services, such as hotel accommodations and meals taken in hotels, paid with foreign currency are exempt from VAT tax. Transportation: Distances between Dubrovnik to Medjugorje (& v.v.), Split to Medjugorje (& v.v.) or Sarajevo to Dubrovnik (& v.v.) take by motorcoach approximately 2 1/2 to 3 hours (one way). The coach will stop for bathroom/stretch (approximately 1 or 2 times). $ $ Money: It is not necessary to exchange currency in Medjugorje Rate of Exchange: $1.00 USD is worth approximately $1.65 Bosnian Marks BAM. For up to date currency exchange rates please visit www.oanda.com. Please note that the currency flocculation has been particularly volatile in the last year, so we strongly urge you to check the current exchange rates prior to departure. In Medjugorje you may go about the entire stay without changing money Shops and restaurants take US dollars. Unfortunately they do not take credit cards! However, make sure to bring along a credit card for convenience and security, and for "just in case". There is a bank where you can get your money in case needed at a very reasonable exchange rate and can be cancelled should it be lost. If traveling through other European destinations in conjunction with Medjugorje do bring and use your Visa or MasterCard. Discover Card is not accepted. You may also choose to bring traveler's checks, however, mostly to do business with bank as most shops/restaurants do not accept them. It is recommended that you contact your local bank and credit card companies before departing on your trip to advise them that you will be traveling. We are frequently asked, "How much money should I bring with me?" This is an impossible question to answer as each person is different. The type of lunches you prefer can make a big difference (restaurant vs cafe). Are you planning on purchasing mementos for yourself or loved ones? We recommend that you bring at least $300. US to cover your water, lunches, taxi, smaller gifts or other smaller personal expenses and approximately $50. for tips (separate envelopes provided). Remember, you can always spend less, or bring money home! U.S. dollars are readily accepted in Medjugorje. It is not necessary to exchange dollars prior to arriving or during your stay. -You can use American dollars or travelers checks at most of the gift shops. -We suggest carrying no higher denomination than $20. (this way if you had to purchase something the change may have

to be returned to you in local currency and you may not want to be stuck with Bosnian Marks) -We suggest $20 - $50 in $5. and $1 increments for taxis and lunches, etc. Some may have an overnight in Dubrovnik or Split and if so, the currency in Croatia is Kuna. Do not exchange more money than needed, as Kuna's are useless outside their country and the exchange rate is poor to convert back to U.S. dollars. The current rate of exchange is 1 U.S. $1 = 8 Kunas. Personal Expenses That May Occur Taxis, usually $6 wherever you go whether 1 person in the car or 4; lunches, personal expenses.

Phones There are no telephones in your room Your cell phone will probably work in Medjugorje and rest of Europe, make sure to advise your provider that international service is needed. If you do not have cell phone and one is needed telephone booths are located across from the Information Center (to the left of St. James church)---- pay phone cards may be purchased from the information room; 5 minutes is about $12 to phone the U.S.-- Telephone connections from Medjugorje International telephone calls can be made from the Post Office, or from the booths recently installed beside the Parish house in the church grounds. There are also kiosks at the round-about at the centre of Medjugorje. The automatic telephones are worked by telephone cards which can be purchased in the main post-office or at the "information centre", on the Church grounds. The cards range in value depending on the number of impulses.

Phone/Calling Cards They will also give instructions in the Information Center: 1- Pick up receiver 2- Slide card in with "arrow" side face up going in first 3- Punch 001 area code phone number 4- The number of minutes you have will keep showing up in the window area on the phone. Do not punch in the numbers like your running a race. The 00 gets you out of the country and into the International system, the 1 is the country code for the U.S; no matter where you are in the world you must dial 1 to get in to the U.S.

Weights and Measures: The metric system is used exclusively through out Europe and the Middle East. A kilometer is a bit over 1/2 mile (.62 miles). A kilogram equals 2.2 pounds. Time: Medjugorje operate on a 24 hour clock. This means that 6:00 pm is 18:00, etc. Medjugorje is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (When in New York 2PM in Medjugorje 8PM). Tipping: Tips are an important part of earnings for your escorts, guides and bus drivers. Tip envelopes are enclosed for your convenience.

• Your tour escort who is with you throughout your tour or for the whole day should be tipped $5. per person per day (or depending on the level of the satisfaction) therefore for 7 nights prepare total $35.

• Your bus driver $2.00 per person per day (or depending on the level of the satisfaction) times 3 days, therefore $6. total.

• In Medjugorje it is customary to tip your home owners at least 1.00 per person per day (if 7 nights stay $7.00 total)

Donation to your priest / pilgrimage spiritual leader may also be considered Restaurants include tax and a 15%service charge (service compris) in their prices. If a meal or service has been particularly good, leaving another EUR1 (or 2) is customary, as is leaving the waiter the small change from your bill if you pay in cash. If service is not included a 15% tip is appropriate. Hotels / Accommodations "Houses": Rooms are basic. There is a twin bed, night stand and a small cabinet for your clothes. Several towels can be found on your bed. For the most part rooms are not air conditioned. Rooms are smaller than you are used to. Every room does have a modest bathroom. In the bathroom you will find sink, toilet and shower stall. Some showers you may need to hold the shower head while taking a shower. Fixtures in bathrooms and bedrooms are not standardized. Most hotels do NOT offer a hair dryer in the bathroom, we recommend bring one if it is essential to you. Most hotels do NOT offer toiletries (shampoo, lotion), we strongly recommend that you bring an adequate supply with you. Please note that while we can request non-smoking room there is no such policy of separating smoking v. non smoking. Remember to check with guide for up to date schedule as there is no modern system of sharing up to date schedule. A basic bulletin notes are written by your guide for important information, suggestions, or changes from your tour escort.

Electricity: The voltage used is 220 volts AC, single phase 50 cycles (the U.S. uses 110/120 volts). Unless you use a good quality electric current converter, the heavier voltage will instantly burn out any electrical equipment you wish to use abroad. Before leaving home, you will need to purchase an international adapter so your two-prong plug will connect to the various local electrical supply outlets (check that it is sufficiently powerful for your appliance), and a converter to convert the 220 volts to 110 volts. Adapter/converter kits that include the entire range of plugs can be purchased at better electrical supply stores. Stores such as Radio Shack, Walmart, K-Mart, Target sell adaptor/converter kits readily. Buying electrical devices in foreign place may be an alternative, especially if you intend to travel to Europe in the future. Note you will not be able to use the electrical device purchased in Europe back in the US. Public Toilets: Known as WC. Be prepared with tissues in your pocket. Photography: Most take photos with digital cameras, however, if needed, film is expensive, so bring plenty of it. 200 or 400 speed is recommended for out door and indoor-flash photography. Photography is allowed throughout Medjugorje. Transfers are included from airport to Medjugorje (round trip), as well as for excursion to Fr. Jozo in Siroki Brijeg. Transfers are not included within Medjugorje. Visits within Medjugorje, getting to and from St. James Church, be prepared to walk (anywhere from 5 - 20 minutes). Of course climbing the Pordbrdo (Apparition Hill) and Krizevac Mountain (Cross Mountain) the only form of getting there is by foot. Be prepared to walk. Terrain: Medjugorje terrain is very rocky! Expect uneven surfaces everywhere; muddy and slippery surfaces when raining - please watch your step! Due to the new structures going up every day of old buildings, access to some establishments may not be convenient for wheelchair use, and facilities for the disabled in general may be limited. Many areas are pedestrian only and have rocky terrain, muddy surface or cobblestones. High-heeled shoes are not suitable for Medjugorje; rubber-soled walking shoes are recommended. Many streets are narrow, and due to strict traffic regulations, the buses are not always permitted to drop groups off directly in front for their houses/ destination. Taxis: Please be prepared to walk. Unlike in other destinations, transfers are not included for all your daily activities. In order to get to Church, Visionary's House, Podbrdo, Krizevac you will have a choice: to walk approximately 15 minutes, or to take a taxi at a cost of $6. per ride (regardless of destination within Medjugorje). Of course, it's advisable that you join others, and that $6. taxi ride be split up within the party/ number of people traveling (maximum 4 people per each ride). Just like in any other destination, be wary of any person approaching you offering unofficial taxi services. If you do not have an airport transfer included and you need transportation, make your way to the taxi line area, or to the regular taxi line outside the terminal (if at the airport); choose only those vehicles with a meter and a taxi sign. We recommend you pre-negotiate the fare, as taxi drivers in some countries may attempt to overcharge unwary travelers. Local Customs: A different way of life may take you by surprise, but if you travel with an open mind and respect local customs and culture, you should find it easier to adapt to and enjoy your new surroundings. Standards of living may not be quite what you are used to, but there are compensations – a closer sense of reality and a more authentic feeling of locale. Due to cultural differences you may not be greeted quite as cheerfully as back home; smiling is generally reserved for intimate friends! So be especially wary of people presenting themselves as “instant friends” and do not accept offer of food or drink from strangers. Shopping: Smaller shops are open late into the evening, wish we could say that all are closed on Sunday, but it's only some stores and businesses are closed on Sundays. Enjoy some stress-free Christmas shopping during your travels; small, light items that you can easily carry home make splendid and festive gifts. Don’t forget to buy something nice for yourself too, to take home to evoke pleasant memories of your pilgrimage. If you purchase a video or DVD, please check very carefully that it is compatible with your home viewing system (for USA and Canada – VHS NTSC and DVD region 1; for Australia, New Zealand and Pacific – VHS PAL and DVD region 4). Whenever traveling abroad, be aware of your personal belongings when shopping in crowded areas. Meals / Food:

Please check with guide upon arrival for meal times. Most breakfasts are basic cold continental buffet style. Unlike in the USA, it is frowned upon to take food out of the breakfast room. Most dinners will be served "sit down" with a pre-determined 3 course meal. Your meals include tap water and coffee or tea. All other beverages, including bottled water, is at additional cost. While some may be able to provide for a special diet, such as vegetarian or salt-free, there is no way for us to guarantee this. Also, please note, vegetarian meals tend to lack variety and imagination. Check with your tour guide for a list of alternative restaurants. Food is generally safe to eat. Tap Water: While most local tap water will not hurt you, due to differences in mineral and micro-biotic levels it may upset your stomach.

Medjugorje Climate:

City Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Low 30 38 45 55 65 68 76 75 68 55 45 35 Medjugorje High 45 50 60 68 76 85 90 89 85 70 55 47

Mid-summer advice: Wear a sunhat and loose-fitting clothing, drink at least one liter (one quart) of mineral water a day if you can (carry a small bottle in your hand luggage); avoid eating too much ice-cream and reduce the amount of ice in drinks. A small battery-operated fan may be useful in warm weather. Language: The official language of the Bosnia is Bosnian, but Croatian is widely spoken in Medjugorje (it's really similar/same). English is widely spoken in Medjugorje, and most signs appear in English too. Population: The population of Medjugorje currently numbers about 4300 inhabitants. All are of Croatian nationality, speak the Croatian language, write with the Latin alphabet and are Catholic. Politically, the new state under which Medjugorje emerges is a parliamentary democracy. Throughout history, this area was noted for continuous migration. Before the First World War, great poverty drove them out into the world. During the period between the two World Wars, Serbian hegemony and persecution under the new multi-ethnic Yugoslavian state drove many to leave their homeland for the far-off lands of North and South America. The real large scale emigration, however, began after the Second World War, when the Communist dictators forced many to run away beyond the borders of their own native Croatia, suffocated by the communist creation called Yugoslavia. In the early nineteen sixties a real exodus of Croatian people occurred: they left on so called "temporary work" for Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, the USA, Canada, Australia and even as far away as South Africa and New Zealand. The communists said that they had left only temporarily, in reality they had sold them throughout the world as slaves. They used them as a cheap way of gaining foreign currency. The irony of the political communist system declared most of them, who were forced to work just for survival itself, to be "enemies of the state," which also condemned their families in the homeland. This is how their return became completely impossible. The population of the parish of Medjugorje started to return bit by bit, fostered by supernatural events - Our Lady's apparitions (which began back in 1981). Today, Medjugorje is a part of the state of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Because of the terrible war, the infrastructure of Medjugorje is still underdeveloped. This however, didn't stop pilgrims from coming here, even during the cruelest clashes of the war. Many of them brought aid, thus helping the people to remain where they were. About the Apparitions in Medjugorje: Until June 24, 1981, Medjugorje lived like all other villages of this region: people worked on their land, planted tobacco and vineyards, produced wine and vegetables to acquire just enough for a modest life for their families. Because of social circumstances, many went out into the world: over the ocean and to Western European countries, as well as into towns in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Croatia. In 1981, when the apparitions started, the life of the parish changed: Our Lady chose for her witnesses and co-workers not only the six visionaries, but the entire parish and its pilgrims. This was expressly told in the following message: “I have chosen this parish in a special way and I wish to lead it.” (March 1st, 1984) On June 24th, 1981, at about 6 pm, six young people - Ivanka Ivanković, Mirjana Dragićević, Vicka Ivanković, Ivan Dragićević, Ivan Ivanković and Milka Pavlović, saw on the hill called Crnica, several hundred meters above the place called Podbrdo, a young woman with a child in her arms, who gave them a sign with her hand to come nearer. Surprised and scared, they did not approach her.

The next day, June 25th, 1981, at the same time, four of them: Ivanka Ivanković, Mirjana Dragićević, Vicka Ivanković and Ivan Dragićević, felt strongly drawn towards the place where they had seen the person the day before which, they had recognised as Our Lady. Marija avlović and Jakov Čolo joined them. The group of Medjugorje visionaries was formed. They prayed and spoke with Our Lady. This is why June 25th is celebrated as the Anniversary of the apparitions. According to the testimony of the visionaries, from that day onwards, they had daily apparitions, together or separately, wherever they were. Milka Pavlović and Ivan Ivanković never saw Our Lady again. The third day of the apparitions, June 26th, 1981, Our Lady gave the call to peace for the first time with the words: “Peace, peace, peace – and only peace! Peace must reign between God and man and between men!” Attracted by Our Lady’s apparitions and messages, people – first the parishioners and then from other villages and from all over the world – started to gather and pray. The persecution of the visionaries, of their parents and relatives, of the parishioners and priests, and even of the pilgrims began immediately after the beginning of the apparitions. The visionaries were taken for police investigations and psychiatrical examinations, but it was always stated that they were healthy. The same conclusion brought about further examinations done in the following years. For additional information on the scientific research please visit: http://212.39.96.6/eistrazivanjavidioci.htm Fr, Jozo Zovko, pastor of Medjugorje at that time, was arrested a month and a half after the first apparition. Although innocent, he was condemned by a communist court to three years and a half of prison. Thanks to Our Lady’s apparitions, Medjugorje – a simple village parish – became a place of gathering for a multitude of pilgrims from the whole world (in the first 20 years, more then 20 million), and one of the biggest prayer centers in the world, comparable to Lourdes and Fatima. Innumerable witnesses say that, precisely in this place, they have found faith and peace. According to the unanimous witness of the visionaries, Our Lady gives them messages to be transmitted to the parish and to the world. They mainly address PEACE, FAITH, CONVERSION, PRAYER AND FASTING. The parishioners and the pilgrims have to become witnesses of Our Lady’s apparitions and messages first, and then, together with the visionaries, join her in the realisation of the plan of the conversion of the world and its reconciliation with God. At the end of 1982, Our Lady addressed herself through inner locutions (locutio cordis) to two ten years old girls, Jelena and Marijana Vasilj. Through their prayer group, she gave - from 1983 to 1987 - counsel to the prayer movement that was created from the very beginning of the apparitions. Our Lady's messages given in Medjugorje constitute a specific school of peace, of prayer and of love. What to see in Medjugorje...

St James Church is today the focus and the centre of both sacramental and prayer life, not only for the parishioners, but also for pilgrims.

St. James’ Parish Church The construction of the old parish church was completed in 1897, soon after the creation of the parish (1892). It was a spacious and beautiful construction for its time. Built on unstable ground, it soon started to develop fissures. Immediately after the end of the First World War, the parishioners began to think about building a new church. Construction lasted from 1934 until January 19, 1969, when it was consecrated.

The Exterior Altar Because of new needs, which surfaced with the coming of numerous pilgrims, the church and its surroundings have been rearranged ever since 1981. The exterior altar built in 1989, and the surrounding prayer area (with about 5000 seats), are a place of gathering in the summer time and for big feasts, when numerous thousands of pilgrims gather in Medjugorje.

The place of the first apparitions of Our Lady, several hundreds meters above theBijakovići hamlet called Podbrdo, is today called Apparition Hill. A steep path leadsfrom the houses to the very place of the apparitions, along which – in 1989 – bronzereliefs were placed representing the joyful and the sorrowful mysteries of the Rosar

Apparition Hill

y(the work of Prof. Carmelo Puzzolo). On the way towards the place of theapparitions, a large wooden cross was erected, signalling the place where – throughMarija Pavlović, on the third day of the apparitions – Our Lady gave the call to peacefor the first time. At the very place of the apparitions, in honour of the 20thanniversary of the apparitions, a statue of the Queen of Peace was placed, sculptedaccording to the model of the statue, which you can find in front of the parish church(the work of Dino Felici). For the pilgrims, an encounter with Apparition Hill isencounter with Our Lady through personal prayer and prayer of the rosary. In June2002, bronze reliefs representing the glorious mysteries of the Rosary (the work ofProf. Carmelo Puzzolo) were placed on the path descending towards the BlueCross. At the foot of Apparition Hill is the Blue Cross, placed there in 1985. At thisplace, Ivan the visionary’s prayer group gathers regularly, ever since July 4th, 1982.

Cross Mountain is a mount above Medjugorje (520 m) where on March 15, 1934, the parishioners constructed a concrete cross 8.56 m high, built in remembrance of the 1900 years since the death of Jesus. On the cross is written: “To Jesus Christ, Redeemer of the human race, as a sign of their faith, love and hope, in remembrance of the 1900 years since the death of Jesus”. Relics received from Rome for the occasion are embedded in the cross bar itself. Since then, the custom was established of celebrating Holy Mass at the foot of the cross in commemoration of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, on the 1st Sunday after the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. According to the visionaries, in the message of August 30, 1984, Our Lady said: “The cross was also in God's plan when you built it.” With Our Lady’s apparitions, the faithful started to pray the Way of the Cross on Cross Mountain. In the beginning, the stations were marked with simple wooden crosses, and in 1988, bronze reliefs (the work of Carmelo Puzzolo) were placed there. On each one of them, with the exception of the Garden of Gethsemane, Our Lady is situated. For the pilgrims, Cross Mountain is a call to meet Jesus in His Passion and to discover His love. On the first death anniversary of Fr. Slavko Barbarić (November 24, 2001), on the place where he gave his soul into the hands of the Lord, a memorial was erected: Fr. Slavko’s relief in bronze encrusted in stone. Between two stations of the cross, it will remain as a sign and a memorial of a man who said what he thought and who did what he said, following the Gospel and the messages of the Mother of the Word Incarnate, the Queen of Peace.

Cross Mountain (Krizevac)

The Adoration Chapel The Adoration Chapel was built in 1991, to offer a place for silent adoration of Jesusin the Most Blessed Sacrament of the Altar to the pilgrims. Due to the lack of prayerspace at the Shrine, Holy Masses in different languages are celebrated there duringthe morning, but it is open for personal prayer during the afternoon. In the year 2000, reliefs of five priests, natives of the parish, martyrs for the faith,killed by the communists at the very end of the World War II, were placed in theadoration chapel.

Statue of the Queen of Peace The marble statue of the Queen of Peace, which became a symbol of the Shrine (the work of Dino Felici from Italy) was put up in 1987 at the square in front of the church. It is a focal point of prayer and meetings for pilgrims and parishioners – day and night. It is probably the most photographed feature of Medjugorje. Our Lady is positioned beckoning with her left hand, while the right hand rests on her heart. But from a kneeling viewpoint, her position can be interpreted as a presentation of her Son, Jesus, crucified on the Cross. Pilgrim groups from various countries often gather around the statue, singing and giving praise in their national tongue. When many hundreds gather to show their devotion, it is a beautiful occasion, and Our Lady can only be delighted with the harmony of voices from around the world, raised in prayer and song.

Confessionals Thanks to Our Lady’s apparitions, Medjugorje became a place of reconciliation,which is especially experienced in the sacrament of Holy Confession. Twenty-fiveconfessionals, built in 1990 and restored in 2001, can be found near the church; it isthere that the faithful have daily occasion to experience God’s forgiveness.

Prayer Area Around the Statue of the Risen Saviour The Statue of the Risen Christ was a part of the Medjugorje expansion project begunby the the late Father Slavo (March 11, 1946 - Nov. 24, 2000.) While, the project wasnot started until after his untimely death, it has progress as per his vision. During theexpansion project, the Risen Christ Statue was erected. Made mostly of bronze andcopper the statue is quite unique and beautiful. Most pilgrims would stop by thestatue to admire it and pray. It is located at southwest of the church, on the waytowards the cemetery, a bronze statue of the Risen Saviour (the work of Sloveniansculptor Andrej Ajdič) was put up for Easter 1998. For Easter 2002, a space wasarranged around the statue for personal and group prayer of the Stations of theCross for those who cannot climb Cross Mountain.

Visit to Fr. Jozo Fr. Jozo was the pastor of St. James in Medugorje when the apparitions began in 1981. In the beginning, Fr. Jozo did not believe in the apparitions. He wondered why the people went to the hill to pray when they did not come to the church. Eventually he saved the children from the hands of the Communists while he was praying in the church and heard a voice say "save the children". From that point on he became the protector of the children and the apparitions. Fr. Jozo was a central figure since the early days and remains so today. Visit Father Jozo's parish and attend his highly inspirational talk, and receive his powerful healing blessing. Father Jozo is considered by many to be one of the highlights of any pilgrimage to Medjugorje. Of course, visit is contingent upon his schedule.

For additional information please visit:

Community Cenacolo The Community Cenacolo is a Christian association that welcomes lost, unsatisfied, delusional, and desperate young people who want to find themselves again, to find joy in life, and to find meaning for their lives. It was founded in July 1983 from the insight of a woman, Sister Elvira Petrozzi, who wanted to give her life to God through helping drug addicts and lost youth. Her main headquarters are located in Saluzzo, Italy. The Community teaches the essentials of life that before we had always refused to learn and no one ever taught us. For us it was normal to confuse pleasure with joy. In our life we have always pursued the immediate pleasure; we never thought that joy could be born in sufferings.

www.campo-della-vita.org

The Pilgrims’ Gatherings in Medjugorje: 1. Prayer Areas: There are three main areas where the pilgrims gather in Medjugorje... Apparition Hill This is how the area of Podbrdo, above the village of Bijakovici is now referred to. This is where the visionaries claim to have first seen Our Lady. This happened at the end of June back in 1981. Since then pilgrims gather there to pray the rosary. By day and by night, groups can be seen making their way to the place of the first apparition. Up until 1989, there was nothing to be seen there except boulders and rustic crosses which some of the many visitors had left. Today, on the ascent, images in cast bronze, (work of the well-known Florentine artist Carmelo Puzzolo) recall the joyful sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary. Krizevac is the hill above Medjugorje. Here, in 1934, the people of the village of Medjugorje erected an eight-meter high concrete cross in commemoration of the 1900th anniversary of Jesus' death. In this place, both groups and individuals of the faithful pay homage in the way of the Cross, praying as they go from station to station. In the first years the stations were marked by wooden crosses. Since 1988, however, bronze images depicting the various stations have been placed at each cross, again the work of the Italian sculptor Carmelo Puzzolo. Cross Mountain (Krizevac) has become the "Calvary" of the shrine where pilgrims remember the passion of Christ. The Parish Church and surrounding area is the area where the Mass and sacramental life in general is celebrated. The old Parish Church, built at the end of the last century, was destroyed during an earth tremor. The new Church was completed in 1969. The church as well as the Parish is consecrated to St. James, (the older) apostle and patron of pilgrims. In 1991, twenty new confessionals were added and an outdoor altar was erected for larger gatherings (when weather permits). Within the Church grounds, there is also a building which houses "the adoration chapel" and seminar rooms for church purposes. There are also two large marquees (which can be joined together to make a larger one) at the disposal of the Parish for various purposes. Overall, the need for "sacral-premises" is ever on the increase. 2. The Schedule of Events: Basically, we can categorize the events as follows a) daily, b) weekly, and c) annual events. Daily Mass is as follows: English speaking 10 am daily 12 noon Sundays. The evening program of the Parish begins at 5 pm in wintertime (6 pm summertime). It commences with the joyful and sorrowful mysteries of the rosary as a preparation for the celebration of the Eucharist in Croatian, which begins at 6 pm in wintertime (7 pm in Summertime) and continues afterwards with thanksgiving and the glorious mysteries until 8 pm in wintertime (9 pm in Summertime). Weekly gatherings: Community reciting of the rosary on Sundays at 2 pm on Apparition Hill. (4 pm in summertime) Community procession of prayer up Krizevac (Way of the Cross) on Fridays at 2 pm (4 pm in summertime) Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 9 pm (10 pm in summertime) Eucharistic adoration, as thanksgiving after the Thursday evening mass. Adoration of the Cross, as thanksgiving after Friday evening mass. Annual gatherings: On the greater Marian feast-days such as the Annunciation, the Assumption, Immaculate Conception etc. On the greater church holidays such as Christmas, New Years, Easter, Pentecost... etc During the Marian months, of May and October, (pilgrim numbers increase) The greatest number of pilgrims come for the anniversary of the apparitions (June 25th) and for the Exaltation of the Cross (first Sunday after the Nativity of Our Lady (Sept). Besides the above, there are also some events, which have become part of the customary annual gatherings. These are: The prayer vigil to see in the New Year (Dec 31st) The International Peace March from Humac to Medjugorje on June 24th The International Youth Festival from July 31st to August 6th 3. The Content of Community Prayer in Medjugorje At a glance, there's nothing unusual about what happens at Medjugorje. Everything is much the same as in other places of pilgrimage. a) Mass is celebrated, b) pilgrims participate in the sacrament of penance c) the rosary is prayed, d) the way of the cross is prayed and e) there is prayer for the sick. However, the way of celebrating is somehow different; the emphasis and effects of which are best seen in the frame of mind of the pilgrim. At Medjugorje, it's not the exterior course of the ritual, which differs, but the spirituality in which it is saturated. The evening Eucharistic celebration is central to the daily gatherings of the pilgrims. Previous to this, the joyful and sorrowful mysteries of the rosary are prayed, and the glorious mysteries are prayed afterwards. Mass is celebrated in

accordance with the liturgical calendar using the Roman missal. The gospel is read in the language of the groups who partake in the Mass. The sermon is usually based on the daily gospel and is conducted through the Croatian language, although sometimes a summary is given in one or two of the pre-dominant languages. Part of the Eucharistic prayer is prayed in Latin and Latin hymns are often sung. Holy communion is distributed according to the wish of the individual i.e. in the hand or on the tongue. Immediately following the Mass, the Creed, seven Our Fathers, Hail Mary's and Glory Be's are prayed kneeling. This is followed by a blessing of religious objects. Afterwards there is prayer for the sick and the third part of the rosary. Apart from evening services, individual Masses for the different language groups are celebrated at the shrine with hymns and sermons in the respective languages. As the years go by, the practice of individual, group and community worship of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is becoming more sought after. Community adoration takes place every Thursday after the evening mass, and on Wednesdays and Saturdays there is a holy hour at 9 p.m. (10 p.m. in Summertime). There is also an "adoration chapel" at the shrine, in which pilgrims can pray in silence in front of the monstrance, which is exposed for that purpose every day from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. (6 p.m. in Summertime). With regards to the Sacrament of Penance, it seems that Medjugorje in recent times, has become well known the whole world over. People come from all over the world to reconcile in the sacrament of penance, with themselves, with God and with those around them. Here, a generous number of confessors are always on call ready to offer the necessary attention, to listen to their needs and to open up the treasury of God's mercy to the sinner. Medjugorje is actually referred to by many as the "world's confessional". The atmosphere alone of Medjugorje is often enough to aid visitors in the sacramental encounter, and to help them experience a conversion, and a real turning point in their lives as believers. Often group preparation for confession is useful, in the form of a penitential service or in some other way. But probably the best way is, in open discussion with a confessor. The rosary is one of the most popular and loved devotions of the pilgrimage to Medjugorje. At the Parish evening services, the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries are prayed with a short introductory meditation before each mystery. When possible, this is translated into other languages also. Often the prayer is interrupted by brief refrains in honour of Our Lord or The Blessed Mother. The rosary is also prayed as a form of pilgrim devotion on Apparition Hill on Sundays at 2 p.m. (or 4 p.m. in summertime). Besides this, the rosary is often prayed even going from station to station either in groups or singularly. At any time of the day or night, groups varying in number and race, can be seen fingering their beads around the Church or on the Hills praying either aloud or within their hearts. The Way of the Cross is also one of the popular devotions of the pilgrim to Medjugorje. Anyone who is able-bodied enough climbs up the steep and rugged path of Krizevac pausing to observe the bronze image at each station. Those who cannot climb the Hill have the opportunity to meditate on the mysteries of Christ's passion by praying the Stations of the Cross in the Church. There the work of the Italian artist Peppino Sacchi depicts the scenes. Meditating on the Passion, the pilgrim keeps Jesus company and is encouraged to unite the sufferings of his/her own life, (or the sufferings of relatives and friends) with the cross of Jesus. Sometimes they have to offer up and pray for those who represent a cross for themselves personally or indeed for those for whom they are a cross. The Way of the Cross is prayed on Fridays at 2p.m. (4p.m. in Summertime) as a form of pilgrim devotion and also in the Parish Church on the Fridays and Sundays during Lent. Prayer for the sick in Medjugorje is woven into the Evening services as a form of thanksgiving for the Eucharistic celebration. It is more often referred to as prayer for the healing of body and soul. Humanity, but more particularly the pilgrim, is searching for healing in many senses of the word. The Latin root of the word "salus" has the broader implication of both bodily health and salvation for the soul. 4. The Beginnings of Pilgrimages to Medjugorje It all began at the end of June when six children began to insist that Our Lady was appearing to them. She introduced herself as the Queen of Peace, and was inviting the world to peace and reconciliation. "Peace, peace, peace between man and God, and among mankind." This not only succeeded in bringing Medjugorje to the attention of the whole world but it also marked the beginning of an extraordinary flow of graces, attracting millions of pilgrims from all corners of the earth, men women and children, rich and poor, the sick and the healthy, the unconverted and the purer ones, the sinners and the saints. The uninterrupted stream of pilgrims is ever increasing. Interest is ever deepening, reactions are ever intensifying, and are becoming ever more spiritual and ever more important (Rupcic: "Medjugorje in the History of Salvation" Duvno 1998, page 5). In later apparitions of Our Lady, she repeatedly invited to conversion and to a change in our relationships, first with ourselves through fasting. This liberates us from all forms of addiction and eases a change in our relationship with others through forgiveness and reconciliation. This ultimately leads to the fulfillment of acts of love.

Even though the question of the supernatural origins of the apparitions is officially unresolved, we have to admit that the way that the Church-life is lived in Medjugorje is directly in response to Our Ladies messages. In her messages, Our Lady concretely asks us to partake in the Holy Mass, in such a way that it becomes the centre of our lives as individual Christians but also as a Christian community. It is the wish of the Blessed Mother that our "mass becomes an experience of God" (16th of May 1985) "I want to call you to a "living through" of the Holy Mass" (3rd of April 1986) "May Mass be your whole life" (25th of April 1988). She also invites us to adore Jesus in the Most Holy Sacrament of the altar: "Unceasingly adore Jesus in the Most Holy Sacrament. I'm always present when the faithful are in adoration. It is then that special graces are given"(15th of March 1984). "Today I invite you to fall in love with Jesus in the Most Holy Sacrament of the altar. Adore Him, little children, in your parishes and in that way you will be one with the whole world... When you are in adoration you are close to me"(25th of September 1995). On the eve of the feast of the Ascension 1984 Our Lady gave this message through the visionary Ivan Dragicevic: " I would like the world to pray increasingly for me in these days. To fast on Wednesdays and Fridays. To pray every day at least the rosary, joyful sorrowful and glorious mysteries" (S Barbaric "Pray with your hearts" Medjugorje 1994 page 41) "Pray the rosary every evening" (8th of October 1994) "I invite you to exhort everyone to pray the rosary! With the rosary, you will have the victory over every misfortune which Satan wants to inflict on the Catholic Church. Pray the rosary, all you priests! Give time to the rosary" (25th of June 1985) "Dear children! Today I call you like never before to prayer. Let your prayer be a prayer for peace.... If you want...accept the rosary! The rosary in itself is enough to work miracles in the world and in your lives" (25th of January 1991) Our Lady also recommended prayer in front of the Cross (30th of August 1984). "Pray especially in front of the Cross, from which special graces are given"(12th of September 1985) "Meditate on Jesus' sufferings and unite your lives with Jesus"(25th of January 1986) From day to day, pilgrims are drawn to the church of Medjugorje as one Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. They come from all tribes and languages to celebrate the mystery of salvation in the Holy Spirit. The celebrating of the Sacred mysteries are at the centre of all events. Mary, Mother of Our Lord is present in these celebrations, as the caring mother and faithful instructor. She gently invites and at the same time thanks (Dear children, little children.... Thank you for having responded to my call!), but at the same time she is exacting; "pray, fast, be carriers of peace, participate in the mass, live the Gospel... You are not alone. You can do all things in Him who is calling you from the darkness into His wonderful light." She, the mother of Light, is offering us her Son, the Sun of justice, the Light who illuminates every man and enables him to be a light to the world. Guidelines for Pilgrims: We would like your stay in Medjugorje to be as pleasant and helpful as possible, here are some recommendations, read them carefully and abide by them: 1. Holy Mass is celebrated only in the parish church. It is possible to celebrate Mass in the Adoration chapel, with the prior permission of the pastor. According to an official diocesan directive, it is forbidden to celebrate Holy Mass in pensions, in private homes you are staying in, on the hills and in any community or chapel located in the parish of Medjugorje. For any explanation or information, please contact the Information Office in the sanctuary. 2. Prayer meetings within the parish can be organized only with the permission of the pastor. 3. Only priests working for the parish have the permission to meet pilgrim groups and give conferences in the church area. All others have to obtain the permission of the pastor. 4. No one has the permission to “pray over” any person either in or around the church area. 5. If you are a priest, you are invited to concelebrate at the evening Mass (bringing what is necessary: alb, stole, celebret…), and - if you have the permission to hear confessions - to be at the disposal of pilgrims for confessions in your language, or in the language you speak. 6. The area around the church, on Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain, are places of prayer. I ask you to please respect them as such, to behave in harmony with their significance and to dress appropriately, as to not disturb prayer and meditation. I ask you also to preserve the cleanliness of these places. 7. No candles are to be lit on Apparition Hill or on Cross Mountain. They may be lit only at the place provided on the west-side of the church, near the Wooden Cross. Votive offerings, religious articles, photos – nothing should not be left on

Apparition Hill or on Cross Mountain. 8. Smoking is not allowed in and around the church. 9. Conscious of the presence of God, and in order to protect the atmosphere of prayer and meditation, it is not allowed to take photos during Mass and during Adoration. 10. It is forbidden to solicit any money, apart from the offerings during Holy Mass. If you notice anybody trying to do this, please contact the Information Office of the Sanctuary. 11. Mass intentions, pledges or donations for the maintenance of the Sanctuary of the Queen of Peace are to be given to the Parish Office. Thank you! With God’s blessing, Dr. Fr Ivan Sesar, OFM, pastor For Additional Information About Your Destination: Please visit the official tourism website as follows: www.medjugorje.hr

What To Pack: Clothing: No sleeveless and no shorts allowed in Church, Podbrdo or Krizevac, if you must wear sleeveless clothes remember to pack in your bag a scarf. Due to global weather changes, regional temperatures may deviate from the norms. We recommend layered, easy care, loose-fitting clothing, an item or two for rain or unseasonable temperatures and something warmer. For Winter, Early Spring, and Late Fall: be sure to back a warm jacket, a hat, scarf and gloves. Just in case. For Summer, Late Spring, and Late Summer: Bring a sunhat and plenty loose-fitting clothing. Don't forget a lightweight sweater for the evenings as some places may be a little cooler than others. A note about summer attire; shorts (or mini skirts) and bare shoulders are considered inappropriate at some religious sites. For men, shorts that can be transformed by zippers into trousers may be convenient. Bring an all-weather coat, just in case. We strongly recommend that women bring a shall or sarong which can be placed conveniently in their day bag, so that they may drape their shoulders, or tie around their waists in the more religious sites. Make sure you have a good pair of walking shoes. If new, make sure you walk in them for a couple of weeks to break them in. On the plane you will want to wear loose-fitting clothes and pack a pair of slippers to wear for the flight, as well as a lightweight jacket. Make sure your shoes are lace-up, as your feet may swell a little. General Clothing for Men: Jeans, casual slacks, short and/or long sleeve shirts, socks, undergarments, and light jacket or coat. General Clothing for Women: Jeans, long skirts, casual dresses, casual slacks, short and/or long sleeve, socks, stockings, undergarments, and a light jacket or sweater is suggested. Radio 'MIR' Medjugorje has a radio station which broadcasts through out the village on FM signal. The broadcasts include masses, rosary, etc. Bring a small FM personal radio with headphones, if not, then you may purchase one once there. At certain times of the year for the big celebrations broadcasts of Croatian Mass are translated in English (not available at all times) Other Suggested Items to Bring (check list): __ Inflatable head & neck rest, eye mask, foam earplugs (for flight) __ Portable alarm clock __ Flashlight with extra batteries: take batteries out while traveling __ Old towel or small plastic bag to sit on outside __ Handy wipes: freshening up during the day __ Travel pack size Kleenex. __ Extra batteries for flashlight, camera, recorders __ Tape recorder or journal for Mass, and talks __ Extra film for camera: expensive outside of US __ Travel size poncho, in camping section of Wal-Mart

__ Optional grocery size plastic bags: 1-2 for dirty clothes or items you purchase __ Soap-small bar travel size __ Shampoo-travel size or put some in a small container; don't carry some big bottle __ Toothbrush & Toothpaste-travel size __ Deodorant-travel size __ Chap stick __ Comb/Brush __ Aspirin/Advil, Etc. __ Feminine protection __ Laxative/Imodium __ Band-aids __ Dramamine or Bonine - if subject to motion sickness __ Pepto Bismol- tablets __ Sominex __ Allergy/cold medicine; tablets (put medicines in a sandwich bag) Health Care: Some people find that taking them selves off caffeine and taking compounds high in anti-oxidants to be helpful in combating jet lag. You can also take Jet-stress or Cell Guard which are herbal complexes designed to combat jet lag. Ginger can be helpful in motion sickness. Melatonin helps to allow you to sleep on the plane. These items can be found at most health food stores.

The Queen of Peace Shrine – Medjugorje Weekly Schedule

NOTE: Times in RED are winter hours.

MONDAY 07.30 am - Holy Mass in Croatian (+ 1 pm in Summer) Morning - Holy Mass in various languages (English Holy Mass at 10:00 am) During the Day - Possible Talks from Local Priests and/or Visionaries Afternoon - Silent Adoration in the Adoration Chapel 5(6)–8(9)pm - Evening Prayer Program and Confession 5(6) pm - Joyful and Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary 6(7) pm - Holy Mass 7(8)–8(9) pm – Blessings of objects, Prayer for health of soul and body, Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary

TUESDAY 07.30 am - Holy Mass in Croatian (+ 1 pm in Summer) Morning - Holy Mass in various languages (English Holy Mass at 10:00 am) During the Day - Possible Talks from Local Priests and/or Visionaries Afternoon - Silent Adoration in the Adoration Chapel 5(6)–8(9)pm - Evening Prayer Program and Confession 5(6) pm - Joyful and Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary 6(7) pm - Holy Mass 7(8)–8(9) pm – Blessings of objects, Prayer for health of soul and body, Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary

WEDNESDAY 07.30 am - Holy Mass in Croatian (+ 1 pm in Summer) Morning - Holy Mass in various languages (English Holy Mass at 10:00 am) During the Day - Possible Talks from Local Priests and/or Visionaries Afternoon - Silent Adoration in the Adoration Chapel 5(6)–8(9)pm - Evening Prayer Program and Confession 5(6) pm - Joyful and Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary 6(7) pm - Holy Mass 7(8)–8(9) pm – Blessings of objects, Prayer for health of soul and body, Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary 9(10)–10(11) pm - Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament

THURSDAY 07.30 am - Holy Mass in Croatian (+ 1 pm in Summer)

Morning - Holy Mass in various languages (English Holy Mass at 10:00 am) During the Day - Possible Talks from Local Priests and/or Visionaries Afternoon - Silent Adoration in the Adoration Chapel 5(6)–8(9)pm - Evening Prayer Program and Confession 5 (6) pm – Rosary - Advent, Christmas time and Ordinary time: Joyful and Luminous mysteries. - Lent: Luminous and Sorrowful mysteries. - Easter time: Luminous and Glorious mysteries. 5(6) pm – Joyful and Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary 6(7) pm - Holy Mass, then Blessings of objects 7(8)–8(9) pm - Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament

FRIDAY 07.30 am - Holy Mass in Croatian (+ 1 pm in Summer) Morning - Holy Mass in various languages (English Holy Mass at 10:00 am) During the Day - Possible Talks from Local Priests and/or Visionaries Afternoon - Silent Adoration in the Adoration Chapel 2(4) pm - Way of the Cross ON Mount Križevac 5(6)–8(9)pm - Evening Prayer Program and Confession 5(6) pm – Joyful and Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary 6(7) pm - Holy Mass, then Blessings of objects 7(8)–8(9) pm - Veneration of the Holy Cross

SATURDAY 07.30 am - Holy Mass in Croatian (+ 1 pm in Summer) Morning - Holy Mass in various languages (English Holy Mass at 10:00 am) During the Day - Possible Talks from Local Priests and/or Visionaries 1 pm - Holy Mass in Croatian Afternoon - Silent Adoration in the Adoration Chapel 5(6)–8(9)pm - Evening Prayer Program and Confession 5(6) pm - Joyful and Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary 6(7) pm - Holy Mass 7(8)–8(9) pm – Blessings of objects, Prayer for health of soul and body, Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary 9(10)–10(11) pm - Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament

SUNDAYS AND FEAST DAYS 8, 11 am, 6(7) pm - Holy Mass in Croatian Morning - Holy Mass in various languages (English Holy Mass at Noon) Afternoon - Silent Adoration in the Adoration Chapel 2(4 pm) - Rosary on Apparition Hill 5(6)–8(9)pm - Evening Prayer Program and Confession 5(6) pm - Joyful and Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary 6(7) pm - Holy Mass 7(8)–8(9) pm – Blessings of objects, Prayer for health of soul and body, Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary

For all other information regarding schedule, please contact the Medjugorje Information Office: Tel/fax: +387 (36) 651-988 or e-mail: informacije@medjugorje.hr

What If...& Frequently Asked Questions: What should I do if I lose my ticket? If you should lose your ticket prior to your departure date please contact 206 Tours immediately. We will fax a copy of your original ticket to the airlines. You will need to arrive at the airport extra early and sign a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and pay the airlines a $100 reissuing fee. If you should lose your ticket during your trip please immediately inform your tour escort who will advise us, so that we may follow the same proceedure. What should I do if my flight is cancelled or delayed?

If your flight is cancelled or delayed it is imperative that you work DIRECTLY with the airlines at the airport to arrange for alternate flights or protection. Please note that once your tickets have been issued or you have check-in for your flights, 206 Tours can no longer make any changes to your flight itinerary. This can ONLY be done by the airlines. In such case, remember, the squeaky wheel gets the grease, so be persistent. However, it is important to remember that it is not the airline agents fault, so try your best to remain courteous to them, as you may find that you receive more assistance this way. Please be advise that the airlines are not required to offer reimbursement for personal expense or overnights when delays/cancellations occur due to weather. We strongly recommend the purchase of Traveler's Insurance for this reason (www.206tours.com/insurance). However, if you find that you have no luck with the airline personnel, please contact 206 Tours and we shall do all in our power to assist you. What should I do if I miss my flight due to my late arrival at my departure airport? If you should miss your flight, due to your own late arrival at your departure airport, it is imperative that you work DIRECTLY with the airlines at the airport to arrange for alternate flights. You will incur additional costs (minimum of $200 per person) for such changes. Please note that you should contact 206 Tours once your alternate arrangements have been made so that we may arrange for a private transfer (at your expense) if necessary. What happens if I miss my group transfer upon arrival? If your plane arrives late, or you are re-routed you will probably miss the group transfer which is included in your package. In such circumstances you will need to pay for your separate private transfer, which you may submit a claim to the airlines for reimbursement upon your return to the USA. For destinations such as Fatima, Lourdes, Medjugorje, La Salette, and Assisi, where public and taxi transportation is difficult to obtain from the airport, 206 Tours will do all possible to arrange for a private transfer to meet you upon your arrival (if we are aware of your misconnection/arrival flight), however, you will be responsible to remit payment to your driver upon drop off at your destination. If you arrive in one of the previously mentioned destinations, and we have not been able to arrange for a driver to meet you, please call your local emergency contact (listed in your Final Instruction Booklet) so that they may dispatch a transfer for you. In major cities such as Rome, Paris, Tel Aviv, Warsaw, Budapest, it is best for you to take a taxi directly to your hotel upon arrival should you miss the group transfer. Please remember to save your receipts. We strongly recommend the purchase of Traveler's Insurance for this reason (www.206tours.com/insurance). What happens if I have a problem or complaint during my trip? If you have any problems, concerns, or complaints during your trip, please communicate them IMMEDIATELY to your tour escort. Your tour escort is at your disposal to assist you with all your needs including issues with your hotel room, meals, etc. Remember, there is very little that can be done to undo a problem once you have returned home, but, most of the time your tour escort can address any concerns you may have swiftly. However, if the issue is not resolved to your satisfaction by your tour escort, then please contact our office. What should I do if I want to change my ticket? If you would like to change your ticket for any reason once it has been issued you MUST work DIRECTLY with the airlines. Pending availability of particular class of service needed, you will incur additional costs of minimum $200 per ticket for such changes. Thank you for booking with 206 Tours. We promise to do all with in our power to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. Please feel free to contact us: Please note that should any problems arises during your trip you should first contact your local emergency contact, and then 206 Tours. We pray that your pilgrimage will meet and exceed all of your expectations. Please share with us your positive and constructive feedback upon your return, we may post it on page www.pilgrimages.com/letters if you do not wish us to post do make a note of it.