Archbishop reveals a surprise about Medjugorje

Apparition may be approved!

Medjugorje could be recognized by the Vatican as early as this year, according to an archbishop appointed to investigate the pastoral care of the people there.

LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) -- Archbishop Henryk Hoser was appointed by Pope Francis to evaluate the quality of pastoral care people were receiving at Medjugorje. While he was not sent to assess the apparitions himself, he has still been able to witness the impact of the apparitions on the thousands of pilgrims and local parishioners there. What he has witnessed has convinced him something genuine has happened.

Archbishop Hoser told the Polish Catholic news agency, KAI, "All indications are that the revelations will be recognized, perhaps even this year." He added, "Specifically, I think it is possible to recognize the authenticity of the first apparitions as proposed by the Ruini commission. Besides, it is difficult to get another verdict, because it is difficult to believe that six seers will lie for 36 years. What they say has been consistent. They are not mentally incompetent. A strong argument for the authenticity of the apparitions is their faithfulness to the doctrine of the Church."

He also referred to the fruits of the apparition, specifically the many conversions happening there.

Along the sides of St. Jacob's church, are special pavilions housing fifty confessional booths. All a priest has to do is "listen to confessions for one hour to witness real conversions."

The apparition at Medjugorje began in 1981 as six children saw the Virgin Mary on a hill over two days time. After that, Mary appeared to them almost daily. She has given some of them private revelations which they are not allowed to share. She has also asked them to pray, fast and perform penance.

Those six children are all adults and after 36 years they remain steadfast in their convictions. Their stories have not changed. The visions still sometimes come. They have remained faithful to the Church.

What person can maintain a childhood lie for 36 years, furthermore what six?

The conclusion, based on the facts of the case is that something genuine happened at Medjugorjie, and may still be happening. Miracles and conversions occur there daily.

If the Vatican recognizes the apparition, it will join Guadalupe, Lourdes, and Fatima as major, approved apparitions.

All people will do well to heed the message from each of these apparitions, which is always the same, Our Lady calls for conversions of the heart.