When it happened to Bernadette, on February 11, 1858, she was alone. But, when it happened to Lucia Santos, and her cousins, Jacinta and Francisco Marto, on May 13, 1917, they were a trio. Very important, considering the significance of the Trinity in Roman Catholicism.
And, when it happened, just 98 years ago, my father, who recently turned 100, had just turned two years old. The children have gone to their reward, but he is still here.
On this day, in 1917, three shepherd children, outside the Portuguese village of Fatima, had a visit by a lady of brilliant light, on a white cloud. Like other visionaries, they had no idea who she was, but she, of course turned out to be the Holy Mother, Mary--Queen Of ALL!!!!!!!!!!!
There was also the celebrated Miracle Of The Sun, which took place at the final apparition, on October 13, The sun was said to have jumped, spun and rotated in the air, as though it might fall to Earth. But only in Fatima, not in New York, darlings! That's why it was a miracle.
Then there was the Vision of Hell, and the controversial Third Secret, which has reprecussions today, considering what is happening in the Church, at large.
Next to Lourdes, Fatima is the best known, and most historically important of the visions. But, on this day, I always think of my friend, Joe.
When we first met, more than twenty years ago--my God, has it been that long?????--the first argument we got into was which was the better movie, "The Song Of Bernadette," released in 1943, or "The Miracle Of Our Lady Fatima," released in 1952. I opted, of course, for 'Bernadette,' while Joe argued for 'Fatima.' The latter movie was well made, but not nearly so, as the former, nor was it an award winner.
Believe me, only Joe and I could get into an argument over this!!!!!!!!!
Personally, I think Mary was just happy the pics were made, and the word was spread!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Happy 98th Anniversary, Fatima!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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