While Saint Bernadette Soubirous did not perform miracles in the active sense, 70 distinct healings have been officially recognized by the Catholic Church as miracles associated with the Sanctuary of Lourdes, a site directly connected to her apparitions.
Saint Bernadette's Role in the Miracles of Lourdes
The miracles at Lourdes are attributed to divine intervention, primarily through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, rather than through any direct action or "performance" by Saint Bernadette. Bernadette was the humble visionary through whom the apparitions of the Virgin Mary occurred in 1858. During these apparitions, a spring of water emerged, which subsequently became renowned for its healing properties.
The Nature of Lourdes Miracles
The healing occurrences at Lourdes are widely recognized and meticulously investigated. These are not instances where Bernadette consciously "performed" a healing, but rather they are spontaneous and inexplicable cures experienced by individuals who bathed in or consumed water from the spring, or who were present at the Grotto during significant moments of prayer and devotion.
The Process of Miracle Recognition
The Catholic Church follows a rigorous and lengthy process to officially recognize a healing as a miracle. This involves thorough medical and theological examination, typically managed by the Lourdes Medical Bureau and eventually confirmed by the local bishop.
Here are the key criteria for a healing to be recognized as a miracle:
| Criteria for Recognition | Description |
|---|---|
| Grave Prognosis | The illness must have been severe, organic, and generally considered incurable by conventional medical means, with no spontaneous remission expected. |
| Sudden Onset | The healing must occur instantaneously, without any gradual improvement or convalescence. |
| Complete and Permanent | The illness must be fully and irrevocably cured, with no recurrence over time. The affected organ or function must be restored to normal without any residual effects. |
| Inexplicable | There must be no medical or scientific explanation for the healing, even after extensive and rigorous investigation by medical professionals. |
| Spiritual Connection | The healing must occur in a context of faith, such as prayer, pilgrimage, or connection with the Grotto or the water of Lourdes. |
As of now, 70 such extraordinary healings have been officially declared as miracles, following this stringent process. This number reflects the careful verification and theological discernment of the Church over many decades since the apparitions. Each recognized miracle represents a powerful affirmation of the spiritual significance of Lourdes and the enduring legacy of Saint Bernadette's visions.
For more information on the Sanctuary of Lourdes and its history, you can visit the official Lourdes Sanctuary website. Details on the Catholic Church's recognition process for miracles can often be found on official Vatican City or diocesan websites.
