Whenever a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary is observed to be weeping, it creates a lot of interest, or at least discussion within the Church, as well as among the general population. Spiritually, too, it can have a significant impact on many souls.

For some people, “seeing, is believing”; for others no such phenomena will convince them it is of God. For most, usually the first questions asked are, “Is it real?” And, “Can it be proven to be genuine, or of supernatural origin?”

These are healthy and important questions.

In each case, it is beneficial to everyone if these questions are fully investigated and answered confidently by spiritual and scientific experts. But, oftentimes, it may take longer than expected to reach definite conclusions. Church authorities must proceed with caution when such an incident is reported to be happening in their location. A supernatural happening of this sort may usher in many graces of God, but even if the "weeping" can be explained in purely natural terms, the phenomenon may be an occasion of some spiritual introspection.

Even if such a phenomenon was found to be "worthy" of belief, the Church never insists that anyone believe since these manifestations do not add anything essential to the deposit of faith recieved through Revelation. But, a choice to believe in something “supernatural” will inherently include an element of personal faith.

Carol Brinati, Director of Communications, Diocese of Orlando