WFWP Sweden - We visit St. Birgitta's Vadstena, a Historic Journey

I n September WFWP Sweden invited friends to an historical journey to Vadstena: a site closely linked to holy Birgitta (Bridget) of Sweden.

In the 14th century, Sweden was a catholic country with a lot of internal power struggles among the ruling royal clans, and with the plague as an overshadowing threat to both rich and poor in everyday life.

Birgitta was a strong woman who, early in life, had revelations and visions. After giving birth to 8 children and after her husband died, she became a nun and a very influential person who gave advice and scolded kings and even the pope. She had a lifelong dream and a very detailed plan to establish a new monastic order, and to build the monastery in Vadstena.

Many pilgrims have through the centuries travelled to Vadstena to visit the monastery and the big Blue church. The Pilgrim center, established by the Swedish Lutheran church 25 years ago is situated right next to the big Blue church. It is a generous but humble place, open for everyone as a place of contemplation and sharing. It has its daily rhythm of prayers in which all are invited to join in. It’s a refuge and invitation for the modern stress-ridden man to take on an internal challenge and also a pilgrim walk in beautiful nature.

So to Vadstena we travelled, from different locations in Sweden, brothers and sisters: We joined the rhythm at the center and walked. We ate simple meals and we shared thoughts and silence. In the evening we could attend the Premiere of “Moments From My Life,” a monologue portraying Birgitta in different stages of her life.

The whole weekend was historical, magical, heartwarming and wonderful. A vision appeared: In the future we will travel back to Vadstena with brothers and sisters from all faiths and places, and we will all walk together for peace.

Reported by Britta Houston WFWP Sweden Chapter Leader