of Fatima
As you know from Father Angelus' weekly column, this year the Holy Father has proclaimed the Year of the Eucharist under the protection of Our Blessed Mother. In addition to the weekly reflections offered, we would like to implement an outward sign to encourage families to pray together in their homes. At Fatima, in 1917, the Virgin Mary appeared to three little shepherds Francisco, Jacintha and Lucia. Following the requests of Mary at Fatima, that her statue be carried in procession, a pilgrim statue of Our Lady of Fatima traveled around Portugal in 1947, showering many graces on her path. Then, on May 13, 1947, the anniversary date of the first apparition, another pilgrim statue started out on what was called the "European Tour": Spain, France, Belgium, etc. On November 13, 1947, five new statues blessed in Fatima (one for each continent) were sent out as part of a "World Tour". This has grown today to the point that statues are "traveling in parishes". A member of the Secular Franciscan Order has donated a beautiful statue of the Pilgrim Virgin to The Catholic Community of St. Patrick. Members of the Pastoral staff would bring her to the first family on a Saturday morning when a rosary would be prayed together. That family, on the following Saturday would take her to the next home, pray a rosary together and leave. It is our hope she travels to every home in the community. Requests for certain weeks will be honored on a first come first serve basis. To schedule a week, please contact John Williams. Include your name, phone number, address and the date you are requesting. Please read the testimonial below and schedule your week with Mary. |
