Do Catholics believe in other apparitions like Mary? Or is she unique in this respect? From the outside looking in, it appears that the Catholic believe that Mary has and does appear to people somewhat frequently. It seems to be called "apparitions" .

You read more about them on this page: Marian Apparitions (Wikipedia).

Is this unique to Mary? Or does Paul and company make appearances also? Maybe others who are not known by name from the Bible. 

Obviously, individuals can claim they see any number of things, but It is my understanding that the Catholic Church has "vouched" for many of these appearances. 

My question is thus: Is Mary Unique in this regard?
Yes, other saints and angels as well as Jesus Himself have appeared to visionaries throughout the ages.

I can give three examples:


St. Joan of Arc received visions of Saint Michael the Archangel, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, and Saint Margaret of Antioch
St. Faustina Kowalska recieved visions of Jesus (and authorized a painting of that vision)
The seers at Fatima received visions of St. Michael as well as Our Lady and a vision of Hell.


Mary is certainly unique and there is some very great significance to her apparitions that is mysterious and will probably remain so. At the core of her apparitions is always a return to love of Jesus and faith and obedience in the Church.  Her main message at the one approved apparition in North America in my home state of Wisconsin was just to read and teach the Catechism. 

The other saints messages and purposes seem to be to strengthen the seers, but Our Lady's singular purpose is bring everyone to her Son.   So I think you're right in observing that there is a difference.