Fátima welcomed around 200,000 pilgrims on May 13th for a mass celebrated by two cardinals, including D. António Marto, the emeritus bishop of the Diocese of Leiria-Fátima, who participated in the conclave electing Pope Leo XIV. The event was marked by reflections on current societal fears and the enduring message of hope from the Virgin Mary.
Wars and Migrants Highlighted in Fátima
Cardinal Jaime Spengler, presiding over the celebration, spoke about the fears plaguing modern society, including wars, migrants, and the rise of authoritarianism. He emphasized the need for hope and faith in these challenging times.
"We live in a society marked by fear. Fear of wars, fear of migrants, fear of not completing our life's journey, fear of falling ill, fear of dying, fear of each other," Spengler stated.
During the homily, the cardinal reminded the faithful that Mary's message is one of fearlessness and that progressing in faith means following Jesus. He also stressed that devotion to Mary is not a religious whim but a necessity for Christians.
A Call for a Good Heart
Spengler prayed for "the grace of a good heart" capable of welcoming others and living the Gospel, especially in these complex times. He highlighted the need for solidarity and care for our common home, ending the homily with the singing of "Ave de Fátima."
A golden silver chalice gifted by Pope Francis during his 2017 visit was used in the ceremony, commemorating the centenary of the events at Cova da Iria and the canonization of the shepherd children Francisco and Jacinta Marto.
The celebrations concluded with the consecration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate to Our Lady by D. José Ornelas, bishop of the Diocese of Leiria-Fátima and president of the Portuguese Episcopal Conference.
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