Our Lady of Fatima, Feastday 13 May

The National Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Valenzuela City, Philippines, stands not only as a religious sanctuary but also as a symbol of peace and transformation deeply woven into the historical fabric of the nation. This shrine’s connection to the Our Lady of Fatima apparition, which began with mysterious visions in Portugal in 1917, has grown to embody the hopes and prayers of the Filipino people, particularly during critical moments in their history.

The miraculous events of Fatima in 1917, where the Virgin Mary reportedly appeared to three children and prophesized key global and spiritual events, sparked a worldwide devotional movement to Our Lady of Fatima. This devotion made its way to the Philippines, influencing its religious practices and cultural identity. However, it was the political and social impact of this devotion that marked a pivotal chapter in Philippine history.

In 1986, the image of Our Lady of Fatima played a significant role during the EDSA People Power Revolution, a non-violent demonstration that led to the fall of the Marcos regime. This image, which was part of a collection blessed by Pope Paul VI and intended for the Philippines but initially lost and later found in a New Jersey attic, became a beacon of hope and change when it was brought to EDSA. Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrile and Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Fidel Ramos, along with a massive crowd, gathered to pray before this image, seeking divine intervention and protection.

The involvement of Our Lady of Fatima’s image in EDSA highlighted the profound power of faith and prayer in advocating for peaceful change. It demonstrated how deeply entwined religious beliefs were with the national identity and political realities of the Philippines. The shrine in Valenzuela City, where this image is now housed, serves as a testament to this significant event. It continues to attract pilgrims and tourists, reminding visitors of the peaceful revolution’s legacy and the protective mantle that many believe Our Lady of Fatima provided during those tumultuous days.