COMMENTARY: ‘The Nihil obstat indicates that the faithful can receive a positive encouragement for their Christian life through this spiritual proposal.’

The issue of Marian apparitions in Medjugorje stirs considerable controversy among the faithful and those outside the Church. Some are convinced of the authenticity of the events, while others have significant doubts.

The Vatican on Thursday approved the spiritual devotion centred in Medjugorie, Bosnia, over its "positive fruit" for Catholics. The green light to the cult of a pilgrimage site where the Virgin Mary is alleged to have appeared came from the Vatican's doctrinal office with Pope Francis' approval.