Dear Mother in heaven …

Antonie Rädler was a young resident of Wigratzbad, Germany. In 1918, the deadly Spanish flu epidemic which claimed millions of victims was rampant all over Europe. It eventually came to the Rädler’s house, forcing Antonie to keep to her bed.

For five days she struggled between life and death, until the doctor declared: "Medical science is powerless in this case. I can’t save the girl…"

One evening Antonie turned to Mary in prayer: "Dear Mother of Heaven, I rejoice to be able to see you soon. But if you still want to use me as your little servant on this earth, then I place myself entirely at your disposal. I will remain unmarried. My life will be totally consecrated to you and to Jesus."

The next night the Mother of Heaven suddenly appeared before Antonie; she lovingly put her hands on Antonie’s head and said: "Only seek your refuge in me. Come and serve me.” An amazing bolt of power spread through the tortured body and made it well again. In the morning, Antonie stood up, asked for her clothes, and declared: "I am so hungry I could eat a horse.” She resumed her work as if she had never been sick. It was in 1923.

Wigratzbad