On May 13, the Catholic Church commemorates the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal in 1917. These Marian apparitions are among the most important of the 20th century, carrying a message of prayer, penance, peace, and trust in divine mercy.
History of the Apparitions
From May 13 to October 13, 1917, three children — Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta — witnessed the Virgin Mary appearing to them in the fields of Cova da Iria. She came on the 13th of each month and called all people to:
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pray the Rosary daily,
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do penance for the sins of the world,
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offer sacrifice and deepen their love for God.
In October, the "Miracle of the Sun" occurred, witnessed by tens of thousands. The Church later confirmed the authenticity of the apparitions.
The Message of Fatima
Mary spoke of Russia, warned of great suffering if people did not convert, and revealed the "Three Secrets of Fatima": a vision of hell, predictions of World War II, and trials to come upon the Church.
Devotion and Pilgrimage
Today, millions of pilgrims visit Fatima each year. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Chapel of the Apparitions, and the large esplanade have become major Catholic centers. Daily liturgies, candlelight processions, and prayers for peace are held there.
Relevance for Today
Fatima continues to call the faithful to conversion, prayer, and trust. Mary speaks as a loving mother who intercedes for her children and leads them to the heart of Christ.
