“I wanted to have a baby…”

I live in Congo and am from a Muslim background. After the birth of my son, I was no longer able to bear a child. After another miscarriage in 2005 while on vacation in Paris, I decided on a whim to go to Lourdes, with my 9-year-old son. I knew nothing about the town.

Being Muslim, I don’t pray the Rosary, but I do believe in the Virgin Mary. At the Grotto, I sat and contemplated the statue of that holy woman. I thought, "Lord, you have permitted that I go on this long trip, and now here I am. May your will and nothing but your will be done." I stayed at the Grotto almost all morning. Then I went to the baths and drank from the fountains before catching my train.

Back in Congo, I was not feeling well. I consulted my doctor who told me I was pregnant. I could not believe it!

I thanked the Lord who heard me through the intercession of the Virgin Mary. I learned to recite the Rosary. My daughter was born on April 21, 2006. The following summer, I took her to Lourdes to give thanks to God and Mary. Today I have been baptized and I receive communion. Thank you Mother Mary!

Awa

Published in Lourdes’ Journal des Grâces (Journal of Graces) Issue #3, May 2016