A Long Process Reaches Its Conclusion
The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith has published a note titled «The Queen of Peace,» marking the end of a complex discernment of over forty years regarding the spiritual phenomena associated with Medjugorje, a locality in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The document acknowledges that, throughout these decades, divergent opinions have coexisted among bishops, theologians, and various analysis commissions.
A «Nihil Obstat» with Clear Nuances
The Vatican’s decision is positive, expressed with a «nihil obstat» (nothing obstructs) that allows and regulates the devotion and spiritual experience that emerged in 1981. However, the authorization focuses exclusively on pastoral fruits and does not constitute a validation of the supernatural nature of the reported events. The Church, following the new norms published last May, separates the evaluation of spiritual fruits from a declaration about the supernatural origin of a phenomenon.
Focus on Fruits and the Action of the Holy Spirit
The note emphasizes that the assessment of the «abundant and widespread fruits, so beautiful and positive» does not imply declaring the alleged supernatural events authentic. Its goal is to show that «in the midst» of this phenomenon, the Holy Spirit acts fruitfully for the good of the faithful. Consequently, it invites appreciation and sharing of the pastoral value of this spiritual proposal. It specifies that the messages should always be referred to as «alleged messages» of the Virgin Mary.
Guidelines for Bishops and Pilgrims
The dicastery urges bishops, even those with reservations, to appreciate the pastoral value and promote this spirituality within their territories, always respecting the prudential criterion of each diocesan ordinary. Pilgrims are reminded that the center of the pilgrimage should be the encounter with Mary, Queen of Peace, and, through her, with Christ, through the Word, the Eucharist, and adoration, not the encounter with the alleged visionaries.
The Documented Spiritual Fruits
The document extensively details the positive fruits linked to Medjugorje: numerous priestly and religious vocations, radical conversions, discovery or renewal of faith, overcoming spiritual crises, and a notable charitable commitment. It also highlights the worldwide proliferation of prayer groups and charitable works inspired by this spirituality, with significant participation from young people.
Precautions and Necessary Clarifications
The note warns that, although most messages are edifying and reflect the Gospel, a few stray from or even contradict those contents. Discernment is requested so that these elements do not overshadow the whole. It is recalled that recognizing the action of the Holy Spirit in an experience does not mean that everything in it is free from inaccuracies, imperfections, or possible human confusions.
Original source: www.ilfoglio.it (published on September 18, 2024)
Photo: Jesús Vidal on Unsplash
