Pilgrims in the church of St. Jakov in Medjugorje, Photo: Beta/AP
Yesterday, the Vatican gave the green light to Roman Catholics to come to the Herzegovinian village of Medjugorje, where children reported the appearance of the Virgin Mary forty years ago.
In a detailed analysis after nearly 15 years of study, the Vatican office for doctrine did not declare that the reported apparitions in Medjugorje were authentic or of supernatural origin, AP reported.
Concerns were also raised about the contradictions in some of the “messages” that alleged visionaries, known as seers, said they had received over the years. But in accordance with the Vatican criteria that are in force, this year the Doctrinal Department decided that the “spiritual fruits” arising from the experience of Medjugorje are more than justified, allowing the faithful to organize pilgrimages and public acts of devotion in that place.
AP states that this decision essentially nullifies the skepticism about the alleged apparitions in Medjugorje expressed by earlier bishops in that area. The decision does not take into account current concerns about economic interests that have turned Medjugorje into a profitable destination for religious tourists.
With the approval of Pope Francis, the doctrinal office decided that the “abundant and widespread fruits that are so wonderful and positive” justified its decision.
News
Source: www.vijesti.me
