Exciting News: The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith has unveiled new norms today, May 17, regarding the acceptance of apparitions or alleged supernatural events. These norms will come into effect starting next Pentecost Sunday.
The key point highlighted is the need for ample time to declare an event as supernatural. In today’s social age, this luxury is one that the Church cannot afford, as emphasized by Cardinal Víctor Fernández, the prefect of the Dicastery. These new norms serve as a guide to discern unusual situations within the Christian community and have the firm support of the Holy Father.
The Dicastery proposes six norms, ranging from the Nihil obstat (no impediment) to the Declaratio de non supernaturalitate, indicating that there is nothing supernatural about the event in question.
During the announcement, Medjugore and alleged Marian apparitions in Trevignano entered the spotlight, with the local bishop declaring the events as non-supernatural, under the encouragement of the Dicastery. Cardinal Fernández also addressed the case of Medjugorje, stating the need for a thorough study with the new rules in place to arrive at a conclusion.
These norms aim to expedite the discernment process for events outside the norm, focusing on prudential declarations rather than supernatural affirmations. However, the final decision lies with the Pope, providing the Church with the ability to respond promptly to such occurrences.
Cardinal Fernández also shared his firsthand experiences with unusual cases in Argentina, emphasizing the non-supernatural nature of such events and the lack of obligation for the faithful to believe in them, as the revelation was completed in the Holy Scriptures.
The new document underscores the value of recognized apparitions, acknowledging the spiritual fruits and positive impact they have had on faith, devotion, and community service. It also elaborates on the various qualifications through which events can be classified, encouraging the faithful to trust in the first two categories.
1- Nihil obstat — Acknowledges signs of the Holy Spirit’s action amidst uncertainty about the phenomenon’s supernatural authenticity, urging the promotion of its spiritual value and possible pilgrimages.
2- Prae oculis habeatur — Recognizes positive signs but notes elements of confusion, suggesting the need for doctrinal clarification if there are writings or messages.
3- Curatur — Detects critical elements alongside spiritual fruits, recommending against a prohibition that could disturb the People of God, while urging the diocesan Bishop not to encourage the phenomenon.
4- Submandate — Addresses critical problems linked to individuals rather than the phenomenon itself, with the diocesan Bishop entrusted to guide the specific place where the event occurs.
5- Prohibetur et obstruatur — Declares that participation in the phenomenon is not permitted due to serious risks, based on the Dicastery’s assessment of the situation.
6- Declaration of non-supernaturality — Authorizes the diocesan Bishop to declare that the phenomenon is not recognized as supernatural.
