Our Lady Returns to Egypt
Original Book Title: Our Lady Returns to Egypt
Author Name: Fr. Jerome Palmer OSB
Publisher Name: Culligan Publications Inc. – CA, USA
Publication Year: January 1, 1969
Book Language: English
ISBN: N/A
Important Note:
This book is the first book or report to be published in English about Zeitoun apparitions in the world after less than one year from the first apparition had taken place back in April 2nd 1968. The author is an American monk interested in investigating Marian apparitions.
FOREWORD
In January 1969, Mr. Culligan asked the Benedictine priest, Father Jerome Palmer, to go to Egypt to interview witnesses of an apparition reported in Cairo. The material gathered on the occasion is here made available to the public at a time when, according to reports still coming from the city, the apparitions, begun April 2nd, 1968, are continuing. It is the desire of Mr. Culligan the publisher that all men understand the superhuman efforts of Heaven – of St. Mary – to bring men of all races and religions into the unity Christ prayed for on the eve of His crucifixion.
Our Lady Returns to Egypt
This book by Jerome Palmar explores the historical and spiritual significance of Virgin Mary’s apparitions in Egypt.
Introduction and context
The author begins by providing historical context about Egypt’s significance in early Christianity, emphasizing the Holy Family’s flight to Egypt as recounted in the Bible. This is why Mary’s apparitions hold profound spiritual meaning for the local Christian population.
The Apparitions
The famous apparition in Zeitoun, Cairo started in April 1968 and lasted two and half years. The author describes these apparitions, the reactions of the public, the investigations conducted by religious authorities, testimonies from eye witnesses, photographs and other evidence to support the authenticity of these apparitions.
Impact on Christian Community
The apparitions had a significant impact on the Egyptian Christian community, known as the Copts. They served as a source of spiritual renewal and unity, strengthening the faith of many believers. They also drew international attention, bringing pilgrims from various parts of the world.
Cultural and Social Relevance
These apparitions attracted not only Christians but Muslims and people of other faiths. The book highlights St. Mary’s universal appeal and her role as a figure of peace and hope in a region often marked by religious tensions.
Spiritual Reflections
The other offers spiritual reflections on the meaning of the apparitions. He discusses how these events reaffirm the Virgin Mary’s protective and intercessory role in the lives of the faithful. He connects the apparitions to biblical prophecies and other Marian appearances worldwide, suggesting a broader pattern of divine intervention of human history.
Conclusion
The author reflects on the ongoing significance of St. Mary’s apparitions in Egypt. He discusses how these events continue to inspire devotion and pilgrimage, contributing to the spiritual heritage of the Coptic Orthodox Church and the broader Christian community.
