How many Marian apparitions are approved by the Catholic Church?
The Catholic Church has a long and storied history of Marian apparitions, which are claimed visions of the Virgin Mary. These apparitions have been reported in various parts of the world and have played a significant role in the faith and devotion of many Catholics. However, not all Marian apparitions are recognized by the Church. So, how many Marian apparitions have been officially approved by the Catholic Church? Let’s explore this topic further.
The Catholic Church has a rigorous process for investigating and approving Marian apparitions. This process is designed to ensure that the apparitions are genuine and that they do not contradict Catholic doctrine. The process typically involves several stages, including the collection of testimonies, the examination of the supernatural elements, and the assessment of the local bishop.
As of now, the Catholic Church has officially approved a total of 13 Marian apparitions. These include some of the most well-known apparitions in history, such as those at Lourdes, Fatima, and Medjugorje.
1. Lourdes (1858): The apparitions at Lourdes are perhaps the most famous Marian apparitions in the world. They were reported by Bernadette Soubirous, a young girl from the French town of Lourdes. The apparitions occurred between February 11 and July 16, 1858. The Church approved the apparitions in 1877.
2. Fatima (1917): The apparitions at Fatima, Portugal, were reported by three young shepherds: Francisco and Jacinta Marto, and their cousin, Lucia dos Santos. The apparitions occurred between May 13 and October 13, 1917. The Church approved the apparitions in 1942.
3. Medjugorje (1981): The apparitions at Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina, began in 1981 and have continued to this day. They are reported by six young people: Ivanka Ivanković, Mirjana Dragićević, Vicka Ivanković, Ivan Dragićević, Marija Pavlović, and Jakov Čološek. The Church has not yet officially approved the apparitions, but they have been declared a “private revelation.”
Other approved apparitions include those at Knock, Ireland (1879), Banneux, Belgium (1932), and Garabandal, Spain (1961). These apparitions have contributed to the development of Catholic spirituality and have been the source of immense devotion for millions of Catholics around the world.
It is important to note that the Church’s approval of Marian apparitions does not mean that they are infallible or that they have the same authority as the Bible or the Church’s teachings. Rather, the Church recognizes them as authentic and significant spiritual experiences that can inspire faith and devotion.
In conclusion, the Catholic Church has officially approved 13 Marian apparitions. These apparitions have played a crucial role in the faith and devotion of many Catholics and have contributed to the rich tapestry of Catholic spirituality. While the Church continues to investigate new Marian apparitions, only a select few have been deemed authentic and worthy of recognition.
