Summary
In 2001, Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira, a Brazilian priest and theologian, expressed his belief that the beatification of Giacinta and Francesco di Fatima was significant. He highlighted how Giacinta’s life was described as “saintly,” deserving to be venerated on altars. In contrast, Francesco’s experience with apparitions from the Virgin Mary differed; he did not hear what the Madonna said but only saw her. This separation led de Oliveira to attribute divine decisions to the Virgin’s disapproval of certain aspects in his life. He noted that while Giacinta suffered greatly and died loved by the Virgin, she was seen as more favored, with a closer connection to the apparitions. De Oliveira’s commentary suggests that if beatified, both saints would offer lessons for believers: those who never sinned could look to Giacinta as a protector, whereas those who have committed sins might find Francesco’s intercession particularly meaningful. The author emphasized the importance of these teachings and their impact on individuals seeking spiritual guidance from the saints.
Key Topics
Fatima, Giacinta, Francesco
