Eschatological Themes in »Particular Revelations« — The Fatima Apparitions and Visions of M. F. Kowalska

Abstract

In recent years especially, speech about »particular«, »private« or »special revelations« is not devoid of ambivalence. On the one hand, these are often theologically discredited and on the other hand are approached uncritically by many. In this situation the theological content which they contain and which is deserving of consideration is easily neglected regardless of whether it involves establishing theological truths, or seeking out possible contributions to theology. Setting forth from the Fatima apparitions and the visions of M. F. Kowalska, the paper deals particularly with eschatological themes in these two »special revelations«. Through a unique presentation of the latter, this paper attempts to demonstrate the theological relevancy of »special revelations«. It is precisely these revelations that can help to appropriately communicate speech about Paradise, Hell and Purgatory to modern man.