Priest at center of Medjugorje laicized by Holy See

I've been following the ecclesiastical problems faced by the Medjugorje phenomenon since mid-2007. Early on I tried to distinguish between the spiritual fruits of Medjugorje from the authenticity of the "visions" (other folks have made similar points).

That distinction is going to become a whole lot more important after, subsequently to being suspended from his priestly duties last year, the former spiritual director of the six visionaries of Medjugorje was laicized by the Holy See yesterday.

Lest we sugar-coat how grave the situation is, let's be clear about the allegations:

1. Fr. Tomislav Vlasic has fathered a child with a nun

2. He has been uncooperative with Vatican investigation

3. The six original seers have become very wealthy as a result of their "visions"

4. Medjugorje has never been officially approved as an authentic apparition by the Holy See.

Fr. Vladic has received some firm instructions from the Holy See:

"The Pope has insisted that Father Vlasic observes a set of conditions on pain of excommunication which include a total ban on teaching Christian doctrine and giving spiritual direction.

There is also an "absolute prohibition of releasing declarations on religious matters, especially regarding the phenomenon of Medjugorje"." - UK Telegraph

Now, unfortunately I have had to rely on secondary sources to do this post. I prefer to go to primary sources, of course, but don't have the free time at present. If I find anyone with good analysis of this sad situation I'll post it. 

In the meantime, Diane at Te Deus Laudamus has documentation and good links.