Lourdes Introduces Mandatory Verification for Priests

The Sanctuary of Lourdes, France, is introducing stricter controls on priests who wish to celebrate there, requiring the systematic verification of the celebret - the official document proving a priest is authorized to minister. The pretext is preventing unauthorized ministry.

Bishop Jean-Marc Micas of Tarbes and Lourdes announced a new accreditation system, reports TribuneChretienne.com on March 19.

Under this system, clergy must provide proof of identity – digitally for French priests and on paper for priests from abroad.

After verification by staff, priests get a personal badge granting permission to celebrate a Eucharist.

Those arriving with organized pilgrimages are pre-registered.

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