Expert: Padraig Caughey - 8/5/2009

Question
Dear Padraig Caughey,
Could stigmata come from the devil?   I've been told "yes" and "no" by members of the clergy.   
Thank you for your time,
Jane


Answer
Hi Jane,

I can't recall reading of a case which would lead me to suppose it was caused directly by the devil.

I would be more likely to suppose in many cases of a cause brought about by hysteria, self mutilation or self deception rather than outright occult activity.

As in all mystical activity its good to have a degree of skepticism as there are an awful, awful lot of bad apples out there and true cases of the stigmata are very ,very rare indeed. Though they DO  happen.

As in all cases of mystical phenomena test the spirits. Look for  Holy lifestyle and obedient submission to scripture and the teaching authority of the Church. Were these are not present do not credit them

God Bless

Padraig