My Pilgrimage to Fatima

On May 4th we flew to Lisbon and from there took a bus to Fatima. Fatima is one of the major of the Blessed Virgin Mary. On May 13, 1917 the Blessed Mother appeared to three shepherd children: Lucia Santos, her cousins Jacinta and Francisco Marto, while they were herding sheep at Cova da Ira in the village of Fatima. Children saw a lady brighter than the sun. Blessed Mother asked the children to dedicate themselves to the Holy Trinity and pray the for conversion of souls and peace in the world. 1917 was a historic year; first World war was barely over. Through the children the Blessed Mother warned the world of a greater threat that of militant atheistic communism that would eventually engulf Russia and Eastern Europe and other parts of the world and the dangers of more wars to follow [II World War]. The Blessed Mother wanted Russia to be consecrated to her immaculate heart. Fatima became a popular pilgrim destination after the of the sun on October 13, 1917. Our Lady promised a miracle to happen that day. About seventy thousand people gathered at the site of the appearance both believers and non-believers. On that rainy day when clouds slowly faded away, people saw the sun changing its colors and rotate like a wheel [called the dance of the sun]. It was visible up to 20 miles away. Nobody expected such a miracle to happen that day. Even the non-believers admitted that something happened in Fatima that day.

[the chapel at the place of Blessed mother’s appearance and the Basilica behind]

In all her appearances to people the Blessed Mother brings a message of hope for mankind. The message of Fatima is that through prayer and repentance let mankind appreciate the gift of freedom, beauty and goodness; know that the Holy trinity is at the center of man’s destiny. 13th day of each month from May to October are festival days in Fatima. May 13th 2017 will be the 100 anniversary of apparitions of Virgin Mary in Fatima. In Fatima I prayed for all of you, for your families, for healing and peace, in a special way for all our children and youth. I thank and his/our Blessed Mother for the grace to visit this beautiful place- Fatima! Father Jose