A beautifully crafted statue of Our Lady of Fatima from Portugal was displayed for veneration at the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima at Don Bosco on October 19. Thousands of devotees gathered for the occasion, which also featured relics and a miniature Blessed Sacrament. The statue’s fine workmanship”especially its gentle, adoring eyes”deepened the sense of prayer. The celebration marked the feast of Our Lady of Fatima, typically observed on 13 October each year.
Our Lady of Fatima is believed to have appeared to three shepherd children”Lucia, Jacinta and Francisco”in 1917, sharing three secrets. The site of the apparitions later became the town of Fatima in Portugal. This year, the feast there reportedly drew about half a million pilgrims from around the world.
The visit of this statue from Portugal held special meaning, as Our Lady of Fatima is widely seen as a sign of love, peace and understanding. Don Bosco in particular, and Goa in general, felt honoured to host this Blessed Lady of Peace. It was a memorable occasion.
