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Public revelation, the Bible, comprises God’s direct revelation to mankind.  The Bible knows neither time nor place and climaxes with the Passion and Resurrection of Christ.  Private revelation comprises visions and revelations, like the message of Fatima, to nurture spirituality.

Private revelations require faith God communicates through prophets. Vatican approval of a private revelation requires it is absolutely consistent with the faith or morals, lawful for publication, and the faithful may accept the revelation with prudence. The message can help in understanding and living the Gospel in a critical period, but the revelation is optional for the faithful’s adherence.

The Apostle Paul said, “Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.” (1 Thessalonians 5:19-22)   The Church has received the charism of Prophecy, to be scrutinized but not scorned. Prophecy explains God’s will for the present and the right path for the future.

Psychological theology entails exterior, interior and spiritual perceptions. An exterior perception is not a normal perception but is a physical presence for visionaries, like the vision of hell by the little shepherds of Fatima.  An interior perception leads a person to a deeper dimension of reality to the soul and involves the Holy Spirit’s guidance for our lives and the Church.

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