As is the case every year, the Portuguese celebrate in honor of Our Lady of Fatima. A tradition follows her appearance before three young shepherds.
The story of Our Lady of Fatima
Apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima occurred in 1917 in Fatima, Portugal. Three young shepherds saw the Virgin Mary, who gave them a message to the world.
Fatima's message calls for prayer and demands devotion. On May 13, 1917, a “beautiful lady” appeared to Lucie dos Santos and her two cousins, Francisco and Jacinta Marto, in the area of Fatima, about a hundred kilometers north of Lisbon. This event is one of the most important in Portuguese religious history.
A two-day celebration
Celebrations began on Wednesday, March 8, with a Portuguese Mass at Notre Dame at 8:30 p.m. The Portuguese community was able to pray before the Virgin Mary, amid hymns and prayers. In the company of the little children who were in the camp, the three little shepherds who saw the Virgin appeared.
This was followed by a torchlight procession, accompanied by songs, throughout the performance in the company of the Virgin. People who wanted to had the opportunity to “laugh” thanks to the animation by Tony Jose.
There was a small crowd present around the Portuguese refreshments and cuisine bar, but there were only a few people on the dance floor. It must be said that it was a bit cold on a May evening…
Usually, the party is in full swing the next day, with new entertainment.
The feast in honor of Our Lady of Fatima will take place again on Thursday, May 9, 2024
A Franco-Portuguese Mass will be held on Thursday, May 9, at Notre Dame Cathedral at 10 a.m.
Rosary, procession and farewell to the Virgin Mary at 2:30 pm.
Entertainment with the folkloric band “Rio Lima Alto Minho” from Caluer (León) in the afternoon.
In the evening, entertainment with Tony Jose.
Buffet and refreshments for lunch and dinner. Portuguese specialties.
Nelly Desplanches
