(ZENIT News / Rome, 07.24.2024).- The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith has given its formal approval to the spiritual experiences associated with the Maccio Sanctuary in Villa Guardia, Como, Italy. This endorsement aligns with the latest guidelines for discerning purported supernatural phenomena. Since 2000, Gioacchino Genovese, a music professor and choir director, has reported experiencing «intellectual visions» of the Holy Trinity at this sanctuary.
In 2005, Genovese extended invitations to others for adoration and novenas at the site. Subsequently, in 2010, Bishop Diego Coletti of Como elevated the parish church to the status of a sanctuary, naming it the «Mercy of the Most Holy Trinity.»
A letter from Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, was made public on July 24. Addressed to Cardinal Oscar Cantoni, Bishop of Como, and approved by Pope Francis, the letter clarifies the position on Genovese’s writings. Fernández highlights the positive aspects of Genovese’s messages, emphasizing the central role of the Holy Trinity in Christian life and theology.
Fernández praised Genovese’s focus on trinitarian mercy, reflected in Christ’s actions from incarnation to resurrection. This perspective is consistent with contemporary rediscoveries of the trinitarian mystery’s significance. Genovese’s messages portray divine mercy as an expression of the Trinity, aligning well with modern theological and spiritual doctrines.
However, Fernández noted that some of Genovese’s expressions might be misinterpreted or confusing. For instance, certain references to the trinitarian «We» in inappropriate contexts should be avoided. Despite this, Genovese’s later writings provide clarifications that align his message more closely with Catholic doctrine.
Bishop Cantoni of Como also issued a decree affirming the «nulla osta» for Genovese’s messages, in line with the new guidelines. Genovese’s writings encourage believers to rediscover the «Merciful Trinity» in every act of Jesus, integrating christology with trinitarian theology.
The Dicastery recommends that when publishing an anthology of Genovese’s works, texts that might lead to confusion should be excluded. Additionally, any future messages should be meticulously reviewed by the local bishop in consultation with the Dicastery to ensure they adhere to Catholic faith principles.
This development marks a significant step in recognizing and validating modern spiritual experiences, providing a clear framework for their discernment and understanding within the Church.
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