Montichiari: Tucho Approves Castrated Version of an Apparition
![](https://seedus2043.gloriatv.net/storage1/du0iqumnpdo58kixfbga1rr6q8gipovx4rq9oyd.webp?scale=on&secure=5Wo83QHS-O9RGuSt0iqHRg&expires=1723294008)
VaticanNews.va euphemistically calls the letter a "recognition" (8 July). Montichari is known for alleged Marian apparitions (1947-1976) to Pierina Gilli who claimed that the Virgin Mary appeared to her with three roses, white, red and gold. Gilli designed a statue which became somewhat famous.
In 1950 the local bishop rejected Gilli's claims. Until 1997, the bishops of Brescia repeated that the apparitions weren't credible.
In April 2001, on the tenth anniversary of Gilli's death, Bishop Giulio Sanguineti appointed a priest to oversee the liturgical life of Montichiari. On 17 December 2019, the Marian shrine was declared a "diocesan sanctuary".
In his letter, Tucho Fernández stated that he didn't find any elements in the messages spread by Pierina Gilli that contradicted the teachings of the Church.
He acknowledges the positive aspects of these messages, such as Gilli's humble trust in Our Lady. He also praises Gilli's appreciation of the Novus Ordo.
But Tucho notes that some elements require "interpretation" [=censorship]. He thinks of Gilli's portrayal of Our Lady as a mediator who holds back divine justice and punishment. Gilli's oft-used concept of Our Lady as a "lightning rod" should be avoided.
The three roses signifying "prayer - sacrifice - penance", central to Gilli's spiritual writings, should not be taken as a universal message for all believers.
Tucho's letter also refers to certain titles used by Gilli, such as "Maria Redenzione", "Mary of Grace" and "Mary Mediatrix". Of course, Tucho disagrees. The titles should be interpreted in their opposite: in the light of Christ as the only Saviour, while the role of the Blessed Mother is only "maternal intercession".
Picture: Pierina Gilli, Rosa Mystica © wikicommons, CC BY-SA, #newsZsgaczpshh