The story of the apparitions began on May 13th, 1917, when three children, Lucia dos Santos and her cousins Jacinta and Francisco Marto, were herding sheep in the fields outside their village of Fatima. They claimed to have seen a woman dressed in white, who they later identified as the Virgin Mary, standing on a small cloud in a nearby tree. The woman told the children to return to the same spot on the thirteenth day of the next five months.
Over the next several months, the Virgin Mary appeared to the children on the thirteenth day of each month, always on the same spot in the fields. She reportedly spoke to the children about a number of topics, such as the need for , the conversion of sinners, and the establishment of devotion to her Immaculate Heart. She also revealed several secrets to the children, which were later presented to the Pope.
The apparitions drew thousands of people to the area, as news of the miracle spread. Many people witnessed strange phenomena, such as the sun dancing in the sky or changing colors. And on October 13th of that year, the largest crowd of all gathered to witness what is now known as the “Miracle of the Sun.” According to witnesses, the sun appeared to spin and emit multicolored lights before plunging to the earth, only to return to its original position.
Today, the Madonna of Fatima remains a beloved image of the Virgin Mary, and millions of pilgrims visit the shrine in Fatima each year. Devotion to the Madonna of Fatima reflects a deep belief in the power of miracles and intercessory prayer. Many people turn to her in times of trouble or distress, asking for her guidance and protection.
There are several ways to celebrate the feast day of the Blessed Virgin of May 13th. One of the most common is to attend Mass and recite the Rosary, a devotion closely linked to the Fatima apparitions. Another popular way to commemorate the day is to participate in a procession or , asking for the intercession of the Madonna of Fatima.
For Catholics, the Madonna of Fatima represents a powerful spiritual force – a reminder of the importance of prayer, the power of miracles, and the enduring love of Mary for her children. Regardless of individual beliefs, however, the story of the apparitions at Fatima is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the human desire for meaning and transcendence. As we celebrate the feast of the Blessed Virgin of May 13th, may we be inspired by the faith and devotion of the shepherd children of Fatima, and may we all strive to live lives of grace, compassion, and humility.