In 2008, the official approval of the Church was granted in the case of the Marian apparitions to Benôite (Benedicta) Rencurel between 1664 and 1718.
When Benedicta Rencurel was 17, she was caring one day for the animals in the field, in the area of Saint Etienne-le-Laus (general area south of Grenoble, France) in 1964, she saw a very beautiful lady standing on a rock, holding a beautiful child in her arms. “Beautiful Lady!” she exclaimed. “What are you doing up there? Do you want to eat with me? I have some good bread which we can soften up at the fountain.” The girl’s simplicity brought a smile to the Lady’s face, but she said nothing. “Beautiful Lady! Could you give us that child? He would make us so happy.” The Lady smiled again without responding. After remaining a few minutes with Benedicta, she took the child in her arms and disappeared into a cave.
For a period of about 4 months, the Lady came back every day, and Benedicta heard her speak. Others could not hear what Mary said. On August 29th, the Lady told Benedicta that her name is Mary.
During the 1664 winter, Benedicta saw the Lady very frequently and the Blessed Mother told her to pray continuously for sinners. Of course news of these happenings spread throughout the entire region.
When Benedicta turned 18, a small chapel was built near where Mary appeared. "Mary revealed herself in Laus as the reconciler and refuge of sinners, and therefore she offered signs to convince them of the need to repent. She told Benedicta that the oil from the sanctuary lamp would work miracles with the infirm if they received the anointing with faith in her intercession."
Benedicta encouraged people to pray for sinners and to receive the sacrament of Penance frequently. "Mary asked Benedicta to admonish women and girls about living lives of scandal, especially those who commit abortion, the unjust wealthy and the perverse. She also encouraged priests and religious to be faithful to their vows."
"Between 1669 and 1679, Benedicta received five visions of the suffering Christ. On a Friday in July of 1673, the suffering Jesus told her: “My daughter, I show myself in this state so that you can participate in my Passion.” After more than two decades of suffering and continual apparitions of the Blessed Mother, Benedicta received Communion on Christmas Day 1718. Three days later she made a confession, received the last rites and around 8p.m. said goodbye to those around her. Benedicta then kissed a crucifix and passed away peacefully."
Some of the text taken from: www.catholicnewsagency.com/new.php?n=12546
