Pope's warning against 'seers' seems aimed at Medjugorje
June 09, 2015
Pope Francis encouraged the faithful to be on guard against “visionaries” – in a remark that seemed to aimed at the ‘seers’ of Medjugorje--during his homily at Mass on June 9.
In a comment about Christians who search constantly for some special new insight, some novelty in the faith, the Pope said: “Where are the visionaries who can tell us exactly what message Our Lady will be sending at four in the morning?”
Although the Pope did not identify any particular “visionaries,” his comment came just a few days after he had been asked to make a public statement on the alleged apparitions at Medjugorje. Several of the people who claim to have experienced visions of the Virgin Mary still report regular daily apparitions, and even announce in advance when those visions will occur.
In his homily Pope Francis was arguing against the “modern Gnostics” who practice a “slightly ethereal spirituality” and search for a special mystical vision, and base their faith on private revelations.
“This identity is not Christian,” the Holy Father said. The Gnostic approach, he argued, is as wrong-headed as that of those who seek to avoid the scandal of the Cross. He reminded his congregation: “God’s final Word is Jesus, and nothing else.”
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Further information:
- Pope Francis: don't weaken or water down Christian identity (Vatican Radio)
- Francis: Don’t live your lives according to what seers tell you (Vatican Insider)
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