By Tim Binnall
A group of experts have been enlisted by a Vatican academy to scientifically examine cases of suspected Marian miracles and other mystical phenomena. The intriguing panel was reportedly put together by Father Stefano Cecchin, who serves as president of the Pontifical International Marian Academy. Among the events which will be studied by the group are alleged instances of Marian apparitions and cases of purportedly weeping statues. Additionally, the experts will investigate individuals who claim to have been personally visited by the Virgin Mary as well as suspected stigmata events and similar "mystical phenomena" which seemingly cannot be explained.
The ultimate goal of the group, Cecchin said in announcing its formation, is "to provide concrete support to the study, authentication and correct disclosure of such events." He went on to argue that it is imperative that the veracity of such cases be determined "because often presumed messages generate confusion, spread anxiety-inducing apocalyptic scenarios or even accusations against the pope and the church." Addressing the paradox that these events can present, he wondered why the Virgin Mary would "sow fear and conflict" or undermine the church when she is the "mother of mercy and queen of peace."
In a testament to how frequently these mysterious events are said to occur, group member Father Gian Matteo Roggio reportedly told an Italian media outlet that "there are around a hundred ongoing phenomena that the Church is following closely" in just that country alone. However, "many of these are local and restricted in scope," he observed, "not all of them receive attention from the media and the general public." Of course, similar cases of Marian miracles have been reported around the world, which is why the group plans to have both a national and international committee to look at these incidents.