Exciting news from the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith! The Archbishop of Mérida-Badajoz, Monsignor José Rodríguez Carballo, has received approval for the proposed declaration “nihil obstat” regarding the sanctuary of Chandavila. This sanctuary, with its rich history of simplicity, devotion, and few words, continues to offer a place of inner peace, consolation, and conversion for all who visit.
Cardinal Prefect Victor Manuel Fernandez penned a letter approved by Pope Francis on August 22 in response to a letter from the Archbishop dated July 28. The letter discusses the events of 1945 in Chandavila, where two young girls claimed to have seen the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Sorrows.
According to the norms released on May 17 by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, the nulla osta allows for the recognition of signs of the Holy Spirit’s action, even if supernatural authenticity is not certain. The faithful are encouraged to participate in spiritual experiences like pilgrimages to sacred places.
The touching story of Marcelina and Afra
The devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows in Chandavila began after two girls, Marcelina Barroso Expósito and Afra Brígido Blanco, had spiritual experiences in 1945. Marcelina, a ten-year-old girl, described seeing the Virgin Mary in the sky, who later embraced and kissed her. This gesture of affection and comfort marked a profound experience for Marcelina and Afra.
The tender presence of Mary
The Cardinal Prefect highlighted the tenderness and love in Mary’s presence towards the girls. This moment of comfort and care symbolized trust in the Virgin’s love, providing hope and dignity to those in need.
A life of charity and service
Following the alleged visions, Marcelina and Afra dedicated themselves to charitable works, caring for the sick, elderly, and orphans. Their lives reflected the sweet consolation and love they experienced from the Virgin Mary.
An affirmation of the Holy Spirit’s presence
Cardinal Fernández emphasized the positive impact of the pilgrimage site and the conversions, healings, and signs witnessed by numerous visitors from Spain and Portugal. The simplicity and beauty of the devotion in Chandavila mirror the grace of the Holy Spirit at work.
In closing, the Cardinal reminisced about the 2020 Jubilee celebrating the 75th anniversary of the events in Chandavila, recognized as a blessing by the Archbishop of Mérida-Badajoz at the time.
