Question: I have come to understand that the tilma of Our Lady of Guadalupe has received painted enhancements. I was under the impression that the image was miraculous, and this revelation appears to diminish the miraculous nature of the image. Additionally, why would anyone contemplate painting on or over any section of the image? This seems quite irreverent. How should I interpret these painted alterations?
— Name withheld
Answer: Indeed, there have been several painted enhancements to it throughout the years. For instance, a crown was incorporated but subsequently taken away. A few angels were also depicted alongside her, yet they too eventually diminished. Other purported additions or “touch-ups” to her visage, among other aspects, are not straightforward to confirm.
This should not undermine your trust in the tilma as genuine. In a sense, it supports the genuine aspects of it. The true and original depiction continues to exist 500 years after its inception on a coarse cactus fabric that should have decayed long ago. Painted enhancements have not withstood the passage of time, although the extraordinary sections have. It remains unclear what constitutes the original depiction. It does not appear to be paint or dye or colored threads. It stays an enigma. Moreover, the incredible details in the eyes of the Blessed Mother alongside Juan Diego and many others, refracted similarly to those in a real human eye, are astonishing. Thus, what seems to be human creativity does not prevail, while what appears to be miraculous endures. This reinforces rather than undermines the authenticity of the true depiction.
Regarding your remark that it appears irreverent to depict on the tilma, this is undoubtedly the contemporary idea. We usually refrain from altering historical and valuable artifacts. However, the earlier perspective frequently involved enhancing and constructing magnificent churches at sacred locations, like those of the Nativity, Crucifixion, and Resurrection. We encase humble relics in golden ostentoria, among other things. It is also noteworthy that the tilma and the Shroud of Turin was exposed to the elements for centuries before being secured in specialized cases to shield it from sunlight and air. In contrast, we prefer to restore historical locations to their look at the time of significant occurrences. Valuable objects and documents are similarly safeguarded with great care. This, naturally, distances the items from the faithful, yet it does ensure their protection.
Moderation of news
Question: I consume a significant amount of cable news and follow many Catholic news outlets. However, how much is excessive? I’ve come across some Catholics I know who have mostly distanced themselves from all but a select few news sources. But isn’t it important for us to stay informed? Any opinions?
— Gerald Morriset, Cape May, New Jersey
Answer: Like many matters of this nature, there are careful decisions involved. Some individuals must remain informed about government or Church news as they require that knowledge to lead, provide commentary, or offer counsel. Conversely, others are not as obligated to stay updated on every detail.
Many, if not the majority, are not required to allocate extensive time to observe the in-depth coverage and what some refer to as the political spectacle that constitutes daily content on cable news. Similarly, many do not need to grasp all the intricacies of the latest discussions within the Church, among theologians, bishops, lay organizations, etc. A constant influx of all this turmoil can leave individuals feeling angry, disheartened, or even resentful and fractious. Moreover, there isn’t much one can do regarding political rifts or Church discussions. You will recognize something by its outcomes. If remaining informed assists you in praying and empowers you to create a positive impact, it is beneficial. If it breeds anger and resentment, it may be prudent to minimize exposure and focus only on the essentials.
One of the tools of the devil is to direct our attention towards what we cannot alter, preventing us from concentrating on what we can modify. Many of us have ample tasks to tackle in our personal lives and within our families, which should be our priority instead of fixating on the issues or controversies concerning others or various tiers of the Church or government. A weekly assessment of a publication like Our Sunday Visitor or a brief look at a news aggregation service is probably sufficient information for the typical individual.
Once more, there are individuals who seek additional information, yet for the majority, moderation is essential.
Msgr. Charles Pope is the pastor of Holy Comforter-St. Cyprian in Washington, D.C., and writes for the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. at blog.adw.org. Send questions to msgrpope@osv.com.
