Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, the new Pope Leo XIV, has visited Medjugorje, a Marian Shrine in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to six teenagers in 1981. While Prevost has not made a formal declaration on the supernatural nature of the apparitions, he has acknowledged the abundant spiritual fruits received at the Sanctuary of the Queen of Peace and encouraged pilgrimages to the site, according to a report from Vatican News.
Here’s a more detailed look at Prevost’s connection to Medjugorje:
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Previous Visit:Cardinal Prevost has stated that he visited Medjugorje during a trip to Europe with two confreres to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their ordinations, which would have been in 2011 or 2012.
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Positive Experience:While not initially eager to go, Prevost described the experience as “an environment of prayer and peace” and noted the desire among pilgrims to change their lives.
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Vatican Support:The Vatican has granted a “Nulla Osta” (Nihil Obstat) to Medjugorje, which means that while not officially recognizing the apparitions as supernatural, the Vatican encourages pilgrimages to the site and recognizes the positive spiritual fruits they produce.
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Pope Francis’s Stance:Pope Francis has also lifted the ban on officially organized pilgrimages to Medjugorje, according to a report from Wikipedia.
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Cardinal Prevost’s Role:As Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, Prevost has been involved in the Vatican’s ongoing evaluation and support of Medjugorje.
In essence, while the Catholic Church has not officially recognized the supernatural nature of the apparitions in Medjugorje, it has acknowledged the positive spiritual experience and encouraged pilgrimages to the site. Cardinal Prevost, as a Vatican official and now Pope Leo XIV, has played a role in this evolving relationship, according to reports from various news sources.
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