The test center located at the Pontifical Marian Academy is to examine reports of apparitions, tears on statues, inner inspirations, stigmata and other mystical phenomena according to scientific criteria
Vatican City The Vatican has set up a new observatory for Marian apparitions. As reported by the "Vatican News" portal, the site is intended to analyze and interpret phenomena relating to possible apparitions of the Blessed Mother. In addition, the experts should carry out investigations into these events according to scientific criteria and coordinate them worldwide. The responsibility lies with the Pontifical Marian Academy.
The "Observatory for Apparitions and Mystical Phenomena Related to the Figure of the Virgin Mary" will officially start its work on April 15. Investigated are phenomena such as apparitions, reports of inexplicable tears on statues ("lacrimations"), inspirations, stigmata, and other mystical phenomena that are ongoing or have occurred but are awaiting explanation from ecclesiastical authority as to their authenticity.
The purpose of the new facility is to provide concrete support for "the study, authentication and correct dissemination of such events, always in accordance with the Magisterium of the Church, the competent authorities and the norms in force of the Holy See on the subject", is explained by " Vatican News" quoted the President of the Pontifical Marian Academy, Father Stefano Cecchin. They will cooperate with experts, scientists and church authorities.
It is important to create clarity, "because alleged messages often cause confusion, spread fearful apocalyptic scenarios or even accusations against the pope and the church," said Cecchin.
It is also important to provide training support, "because dealing with certain cases requires adequate preparation," the religious continued. The observatory will "activate national and international commissions to assess and study apparitions and mystical phenomena reported in different areas of the world."
The newly established observatory consists of a steering committee, a central scientific committee and will soon also set up local scientific committees, which as an operational network can further expand the radius of action. The committee should work regularly, but also meet on site if necessary.
The Catholic Church considers apparitions of the Virgin Mary to be possible in principle, but has subjected such occurrences to a strict examination, which can sometimes take decades. Church recognized Marian apparition sites include pilgrimage areas such as Lourdes (France), Fatima (Portugal) and Guadalupe (Mexico), but also La Salette, Notre-Dame du Laus and Paris/Rue de Bac (France), Banneux and Beauraing (Belgium), Knock (Ireland), San Nicolas de los Arroyos (Argentina), Dietrichswalde (Poland), Kibeho (Rwanda) and Akita (Japan).
Source: https://www.vaticannews.va/it/chiesa/news/2023-04/pami-osservatorio-fenomeni-apparizioni-maria.html
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