Sir, - I note from Dervla Murphy's review of Why Angels Fall - a Journey through Orthodox Europe from Byzantium to Kosovo by Victoria Clark that she refers to "the lucrative Franciscan-run operation known as Medjugorje" and "the internecine clerical warfare" there. Hopefully, when it comes to writing her book on the Balkans, she will check her information thoroughly.
Lucrative it may be in terms of the generosity of pilgrims, who also greatly help the refugees and those in need in Bosnia and Croatia, but regarding the "internecine clerical warfare", I wonder where she got her information. As one who has visited Medjugorje many times, I have never been anything but edified by the hard work and piety of the Franciscans there and by the peace that emanates from that holy place. Perhaps Ms Murphy would consider interviewing some of the many whose lives have been dramatically changed for the better through visiting Medjugorje. Hopefully, in the forthcoming book it will not be reduced to few dismissive lines. Yours etc.,
Mrs Mary Stewart, Donegal Town.