Stigmata as suffering

The phenomenon of stigmata and the manifestation of the wounds of Christ's passion must be viewed from this perspective—as a literal participation in the suffering of the crucified Jesus, remaining part of the Mystical Body of Christ and thus allowing it to suffer. Emphasizing the role of suffering, stigmatics were characterized by serious physical illnesses or disabilities, often from childhood, extreme convictions of their sinfulness and worthlessness, often combined with dangerous forms of asceticism. These individuals believed they could reduce the amount of suffering in the world by willingly accepting their own suffering.

In an article on stigmata in the Catholic Encyclopedia, Father Augustin Poulain, a respected expert in mystical theology, states that:

"Sufferings can constitute a fundamental part of the visible stigmata; the substance of this grace consists of pity for Christ, participation in His sufferings, sorrows, and the very atonement for the sins continually committed in the world. If sufferings were absent, the wounds would be an empty symbol, a theatrical performance, conducive to pride. If the stigmata were truly from God, they would not deserve to participate in such futility and would not work miracles. This trial is far from being merely what saints must endure: " The life of stigmatics ," says Dr. Imbert, " is a long series of worries that result from the sacred disease of the stigmata and end only in death ." It seems historically certain that ecstasies alone bring on stigmata. Moreover, stigmatics have visions corresponding to their role as sufferers, and from time to time they behold bloody scenes of passion."

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this gave rise to the concept of "soul sacrifice," a term used by stigmatics. The "soul sacrifice" is considered by mystics to be capable of alleviating suffering through the voluntary acceptance of one's own suffering. Voluntary acceptance of suffering is emphasized as an effective aspect, not as the mere intensity of suffering.

One of the Italian stigmatics was Gemma Galgani (1878-1903). She experienced frequent appearances of her Guardian Angel, with outstretched wings or kneeling beside her, revealing the most sublime insight into the Passion of Christ. He told her: "See how Jesus suffered as a man. Consider that he received all these wounds alone. This is Love that opened them all. See how terrible sin is, since he has repented, for such great pain and such great Love are necessary."