The Children of Fatima

This work begins by relating the visit of the Angel: "Reluctantly the two children sat down again on the dirt floor of the cave. Lucia was the oldest, and long ago they had been told that they must obey her whenever they spent the day away from home. But as they sat, amusing one another with stories, a sudden gust of wind caused them to look up. Before they could worry as to whether or not a fresh storm was brewing, an amazing sight greeted them. Above the straggling olive trees at the far end of the field was a beautiful white light. It shone like the purest snow, the clearest crystal! But it was not still. It was movingacross the tops of the trees, across the open expanse of pasture, towards the cave! "The three children stared in awed silence as the strange glow approached and they saw that in its very center stood a young man. He wore flowing white garments such as the three had noticed in pictures of angels and saints in the parish church. But this was no picture. It was real! "Fear not," said the stranger, smiling at the frightened youngsters. "I am the Angel of Peace." Then, kneeling, he touched his forehead to the ground. "Pray with me," he said. "Scarcely knowing what they did, the little shepherds fell upon their knees and imitated the actions of the strange young man. When he spoke, they repeated his words: Oh, my God, I believe in Thee! I adore Thee! I hope in Thee, and I love Thee I I ask pardon for those who do not believe, do not adore, do not hope, and who do not love Thee." "Three times the angel said this prayer, then arose and smiled again upon the children. "Pray thus," he invited. "The Hearts of Jesus and Mary will hear your petitions."" And then the Blessed Virgin Mary came. Let us consider this one tidbit: "The Lady sensed Lucia's bewilderment. Indeed, when the little girl complained at having to stay in the world without her beloved cousins, she hastened to comfort her in a kind and motherly way. "No, no, my child. You will not be alone. I will never abandon you. My Immaculate Heart will be your refuge and the way that will lead you to Jesus."" Do we stop and consider that yes, Mary will triumph through her Immaculate Heart as she promised three humble, simple children? Let us read and contemplate this story.