PART II: THE IMPORTANT PHASE OF LOCUTIONS:

Conchita praying at the Pines.

CONCHITA'S LAST THREE ECSTASIES.
LAST EVENTS . . .
(From March 1963 to February 1966 . . . )

"Interior locutions are a very particular type of inspiration from the Holy Spirit. In the order of prophetic revelations, they represent, like visions, an extraordinary phenomenon of life. Such locutions are regularly reported, especially since the writings of Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross.

Included at times under the general title of "private revelations," they are sensed in the innermost regions of the soul; their powerful effect is felt, and the memory is indelibly marked by them. Locutions are unpredictable and absolutely clear; they are short, contain a broad content of meaning in a few words. (Dic. Spir., vol. 12, 1983).

The criterion of the ultimate authenticity of those "interior words" is verified by the spiritual benefit they produce: peace, joy, trust, etc. . . . Such are the characteristics of the locutions of Conchita and Mari-Loli. they form an integral part of the Garabandal phenomena and occurred from March 1963 to February 1966, on more than forty occasions, and were about equal in number for the two visionaries.

Conchita had locutions especially from the Blessed Virgin, except two very significant ones from Christ, whereas Mari-Loli seems to have been favored with as many from Our Lady as from Our Lord.

The great subjects developed during the apparitions were also developed in the locutions. Of a more existential and personal character than the visions, they however helped the two visionaries to deepen their spiritual formation and their related 'mystical' life, thus intensifying their union not only with Christ and Mary, but also with all Christians, Catholic or not, and even with all human persons.

These "interior words," on the whole, thus act as a powerful confirmation, as much for the visionaries as for the witnesses, of the truthfulness of the ecstasies and more of the divine origin of the Message of Garabandal. Jacinta and Mari-Cruz did not have any locutions.
[From 'Garabandal' Book, page 170]

Like a said before, many Saints had locutions and also those who have not been canonized. Even now I'm reading a book titled "He and I", where Our Lord talks interiorly to a lady in France in the early part of the 1900's. It's one of the most beautiful and inspiring books I have ever read, especially as you hear and meditate on Our Lord's words to the lady. These words really penetrate the heart!

Of course there are many other great books with Our Lord's words, which I have read over the years of my spiritual journey. Our Lady too, has dictated Her words to certain souls. One of the most famous is "City of God" by Venerable Mary of Agreda. It's in four volumes and Mother Mary relates Her whole life story to the nun. Many Popes have given their blessing to all those who read "City of God." I've read all four books about three times and still pick it up once in a while to re-read. It seems that Our Lady, who has taken me under Her mantle and has guided me, is my special spiritual director and always guides me in my prayers and spiritual reading. What a blessing! I owe everything to Her, for without Our Lady, I would be on the road to hell instead of heaven.
Roman Deacon