NEWS & VIEWS
from a CATHOLIC perspective

      CONYERS, Georgia (CWNews.com) - More than 100,000 people gathered on a rural farm in Georgia on Tuesday to hear the last message in a purported apparition of the Virgin Mary that has continued since 1983.

      Nancy Fowler, 47, relayed to people gathered from throughout North and South America, Europe, and Asia, the message she allegedly received from the Mother of Christ. "My dear children, I have come to be with you today as your loving mother to instruct you. Children, please live your life in full union with God. It is most pleasing to God when you imitate Him," she said. Fowler also said the Blessed Mother urged them to pray and shun materialism.

      The late Archbishop of Atlanta, James Lyke, had expressed caution about the apparitions before his death in 1992. Diocesan priests may not celebrate Mass at the site and parishes may not sponsor pilgrimages, but individual Catholics may continue to go there. Last year, more than 30,000 people showed up.

      Fowler had said last year that this would be the last message she was going to receive. She has claimed to receive message from the Virgin Mary since 1983, but since 1993 has only offered the messages once per year on the anniversary of the last apparition of Fatima, October 13.