Marian apparitions hold a special place in the hearts of millions of Catholics worldwide. These extraordinary events, where the Blessed Virgin Mary has appeared to individuals or groups, have been reported throughout history, inspiring awe, faith, and devotion. But what exactly are Marian apparitions, and how can Catholics grow in a special devotion to them?

Marian apparitions refer to the supernatural occurrence where the Blessed Virgin Mary is has appeared to individuals or groups of people. These appearances are often accompanied by messages of love, hope, prayer, repentance, and guidance for the faithful. While not required to believe in as a practicing Catholic, many Catholics believe in the authenticity of certain Marian apparitions based on investigations by Church authorities and the fruits of devotion they have born from them.

Examples of Marian Apparitions: 

1. Our Lady of Guadalupe (Mexico, 1531): Perhaps one of the most famous Marian apparitions, Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared to the indigenous peasant Juan Diego on the hill of Tepeyac, near present-day Mexico City. Her image imprinted miraculously on Juan Diego's cloak (tilma) has become a symbol of Mexican Catholicism and a powerful catalyst for conversion and devotion.

2. Lourdes (France, 1858): In Lourdes, France, the Virgin Mary appeared to Bernadette Soubirous, a young peasant girl, in a series of visions. Mary identified herself as the "Immaculate Conception" and instructed Bernadette to dig a spring, which became known for its miraculous healing properties, and where water still runs today. Lourdes has since become one of the most visited Marian pilgrimage sites in the world.

3. Fatima (Portugal, 1917): In the small town of Fatima, Portugal, three shepherd children—Lucia dos Santos and her cousins Francisco and Jacinta Marto—reported a series of apparitions of the Virgin Mary. Mary revealed three "secrets" to the children, including prophecies about future events and calls for prayer, penance, devotion to her Immaculate Heart and the Rosary.

4. Medjugorje (Bosnia and Herzegovina, 1981–present): Since June 24, 1981, in the town of Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina, six children (now adults) reported seeing apparitions of the Virgin Mary. These apparitions, which continue to this day for some of the visionaries, have drawn millions of pilgrims seeking spiritual renewal, conversion, and healing. While not officially recognized by the Catholic Church as of yet, St. Pope John Paul II did support and believe in them, and it is allowed for members of the Catholic church to believe in them as well. Medjugorje has become one of the most visited Marian pilgrimage sites in the world, with many claiming experiences of faith and conversion.

If you’re looking to grow in devotion to one of these apparitions, read some of our other blogs on Guadalupe, Lourdes, Fatima, and Medjugorje, and explore our Mater Nostra Collection to ask for their specific intercession through the Rosary.