Italian Mystic Faces Trial

— A Warning About Catholic Scam Artists

Italian self-styled visionary Gisella Cardia is set to stand trial after prosecutors accused her of staging false miracles — including claims that a Virgin Mary statue wept blood — in order to solicit large donations from followers. Investigators say the blood on the statue matched her own DNA, and Church authorities have already declared her alleged apparitions “non-supernatural.” The case has drawn renewed attention to a broader pattern in which self-proclaimed mystics promote visions, prophecies, and apocalyptic warnings despite lacking Church approval. Critics warn that certain popular figures in this space — including Fr. Michel Rodrigue and Luz de María de Bonilla — are frequently cited as examples of questionable mystic claims that circulate widely online, sometimes generating significant financial and spiritual influence despite serious concerns from theologians, bishops, and lay watchdog groups.

Growing Problem: Platforms Amplifying Questionable Visionaries

Popular websites such as Countdown to the Kingdom have given large audiences to alleged mystics and prophecy-driven personalities, helping spread unvetted claims and boosting individuals whom critics describe as spiritual opportunists. In contrast, groups like Divine Will Era have consistently called attention to the obvious deceptive practices and theological red flags. Our efforts, however, have frequently been met with  backlash: the “false mystic” ecosystem has radicalized some vulnerable followers, leading them to attack (even harass and threaten) those who expose inconsistencies or raise questions about financial or doctrinal abuses.

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