Alleged Apparition
The apparitions of Lipa occurred in the Philippines in 1948 to a religious woman, nineteen year old, Sr. Teresita, a Carmelite novice. There were a total of fifteen reported apparitions. Mary appeared in white robes and held a golden rosary (see right). Hovering on a cloud, hands folded or outstretched, she told the seer: "I am your mother ... I am the mediatrix of graces. Love each other like true sisters."
On September 15, 1948, rose petals fell from heaven, the petals sometimes bearing effigies of Jesus and Mary (see left). Reportedly, many conversions and healings occurred. Initial recognition by the Bishop of Lipa was followed by a subsequent negative final decision.
The postulant would be subjected to infernal visits several times the following weeks.
At around 5:00 p.m. of the 12th of September 1948, the Feast of the Holy Name of Mary, postulant Teresing Castillo saw the vine in the garden shake though there was no wind at all. A woman's voice was heard to say: "Fear not my child. Kiss the ground. Whatever I tell you to do, you must do. For fifteen consecutive days, come to visit me here in this spot. Eat some grass, my child." The next day, September 13, Monday, again at five in the afternoon, the postulant returned to the place, knelt down and intended to say the Hail Mary. She had only reached the phrase "full of grace" when again the vine moved. A beautiful Lady appeared, a golden Rosary hanging on her right hand. The Lady's dress was simple and pure white, held in the waist by a narrow cloth belt. Her feet were bare and resting on clouds about two feet above ground. Her face, indescribably beautiful, was radiant.
On September 14, Tuesday, the first shower of rose petals took place. Some nuns found fresh rose-petals of exceptional sweetness, strewn around their rooms or outside their doors. Meantime, Mother Priores decided to consult the Most Reverend Alfredo Obviar, auxiliary bishop of Lipa and spiritual director of Carmel. The bishop instructed her to tell postulant Teresing to ask from the Blessed Virgin some proof that the apparition was from heaven. Days, after the first shower of petals, total blindess afflicted the postulant. Mother Prioress heard a voice telling her that the only way Teresing's blindness would be healed was for her to kiss the eyes of the postulant. So, one day in the presence of Bishop Obviar, Mother Prioress lifted the veil of Teresing and imparted a kiss on her eyes. Instantly, Teresing's eyes recovered her sight. Her blindness was cured. Bishop Obviar doubted no more that the apparitions were heavenly.
The Carmelite Convent in Lipa, the site of the reported apparitions, is now the subject of major pilgrimages in the Philippines, one attended by the president of Philippines.
Read more about this topic: Teresita Castillo
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