Pope Francis authorized pilgrimages to Medjugorje

Pope Francis gave his permission for the organization of pilgrimages to the Marian Shrine of Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina – where the Virgin is supposed to have appeared – provided that they do not involve recognition. appearances because they are still being studied in the Vatican, reported the Catholic website Aci Prensa.

Therefore, "we must avoid that such pilgrimages create confusion or ambiguity as to the doctrinal aspect." This also applies to pastors of all kinds and of all degrees who have the influence of the law. intend to go to Medjugorje and solemnly celebrate or concelebrate. "

"Given the remarkable flow of people who are going to Medjugorje", continues the statement of "Alessandro Gissoti", as well as abundant fruits of the grace that results, such provisions are part of the pastoral attention particular that the Holy Father has tried to give to this reality, directed to promote and promote the fruits of good ".

This was announced by the director of the Vatican press room, Alessandro Gisotti, in a statement to correspondents accredited to the Vatican.

"As announced this morning by Bishop Henryk Hoser, a special apostolic visitor to the parish of Medjugorje, and the apostolic nunciature of Sarajevo, the Holy Father organized the organization of pilgrimages to Medjugorje," Gisotti said.

He also stressed that these pilgrimages should avoid being interpreted "as an authentication of known events that still require an examination on the part of the Church".

The alleged appearances began on June 24, 1981, when six children from Medjugorje claimed to have been victims of phenomena that, they say, are apparitions of the Virgin Mary, said Aci Prensa.

According to these six "seers", the apparitions contained a message of peace for the world, a call to conversion, prayer and fasting, as well as some secrets surrounding the events that will occur in the future.

In addition, it is said that three of the six original children, who are now young adults, continue to receive appearances every afternoon because they have not revealed all of them. " secrets "proposed.

Since its creation, the alleged apparitions have been a source of controversy and conversion. While some say they have lived miracles, others say that visions are not credible, said Aci Prensa.