[Testimony of Priest] A Pilgrimage to Naju Shrine that Renewed My Spiritual Life!

A Pilgrimage to Naju Shrine that Renewed My Spiritual Life!

Testimony of Father Ronald

👋I am Father Ronald. I am pursuing my doctoral studies in Clinical Psychology. For some time, I had felt the need for spiritual renewal, even if only for a few days. When Mrs. Lulu asked me, Would you like to go to Naju, I gladly accepted the invitation.

About a week before my departure, however, I developed a fever and a cold, and my health worsened. Some fellow priests advised me to remain behind until I recovered. Nevertheless, entrusting myself to God’s providence, I decided to take medication and proceed with the pilgrimage.

During my stay, I was able to participate in all the scheduled programs without difficulty. I received this as a grace and a sign of God’s providence, which I experienced through the intercession of Our Lady of Naju.

This pilgrimage was a deeply grace-filled experience. Throughout the five days I spent in Naju, I experienced a profound sense of interior joy and peace. Upon arriving at the shrine, and especially when praying on the Blessed Mother’s Mountain, I felt a deep spiritual consolation and was grateful for the time spent in prayer.

I participated in the Eucharistic procession and the Way of the Cross, during which I perceived a fragrance that I understood as a spiritual sign. Each day, I also spent time walking and praying the Way of the Cross.

Through these experiences, I personally felt that this place is one of prayer where many people encounter God. I was deeply grateful for the opportunity to renew my spiritual life during this pilgrimage.

I also had the opportunity to meet Mama Julia, which was a significant moment for me. I was particularly moved by her joy and sincerity when she shared her experiences. Her presence, her fervor, and the manner in which she communicates her message left a deep impression on me. While it is difficult to fully express this in words, I felt that her witness comes from a deeply lived experience.

Although I was suffering from a cold and had difficulty breathing, I was still able to perceive the fragrance. I understood this, in my personal reflection, as something connected to a spiritual reality.

In the history of the Church, God has often chosen individuals as instruments to convey His love and presence. In a similar way, I have come to reflect that Mama Julia may serve as such an instrument in the lives of many people.

I am grateful for the inspiration that many pilgrims receive through her life, her humility, her prayer, and her witness. I was especially touched by her dedication to prayer and her effort to lead others toward God through both her words and her example.

I was also deeply moved by her love for priests. She recognizes the importance of the renewal of priests in the life of the Church, since they are called to guide many souls through their ministry.

I consider it a great grace that I have been called to the priesthood, and that I was given the opportunity to encounter her. This experience has left a lasting impression on my spiritual life.

As I return home, I carry with me several graces.

First, a renewed sense of joy and spiritual strength. I came with a simple desire for prayer, yet I feel I have received 10times more than I expected.

Second, the encounter I experienced during this pilgrimage remains a meaningful memory. If it is God’s will, I would hope to return in the future.

Third, I return with a renewed spiritual fervor, which I will carry into my pastoral ministry.

I was also struck by the many testimonies regarding extraordinary signs. However, what impressed me most was not these signs themselves, but rather the witness of a life rooted in humility and prayer. In my observation, these experiences appear to lead not to pride, but to greater simplicity and dedication.

I am sincerely grateful for this pilgrimage experience in Naju.  It has strengthened my desire to love God more deeply and to grow in devotion to the Blessed Mother.

I respectfully invite others to visit the Naju Shrine and to pray there. Each person will have their own experience, but I believe it can be a meaningful opportunity for spiritual reflection and renewal. Thank you.

October 21, 2025 – Fr. Ronald

Photo : The 39th Anniversary of Our Lady's Weeping Tears of Blood on Oct 19, 2025

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