An Encounter with the Our Lady of Fatima

Last February 4, 2017, I was one of those who attended the 12 noon mass at the San Pedro Cathedral in honor of the arrival of the pilgrim image of Our Lady of Fatima. The visit of the Image is in line with the 100th Anniversary of her apparition at Fatima.

Prior to my arrival at the cathedral, I thought I would not be able to participate at the mass on time. The day being a Saturday is my usual schedule to do the laundry. I started washing our clothes at around 8 in the morning and I finished the chore by 10:15 am that day. Then, I hurriedly prepared myself and left at around 11:30 am to attend the mass. I was all by myself since my children are busy with their school projects. Usually, the travel time from our place towards San Pedro Cathedral would only take 15 minutes but then that day the traffic was worse. I arrived at the cathedral at exactly 12 noon in time for the recitation of the Angelus. I was glad that the mass was yet to start. The cathedral was so full of people, I thought I would be standing all throughout the mass. But when I went to my usual spot, I was able to find a seat that has a direct view of the Our Lady of Fatima.

“As I gaze at the image, I had a surreal feeling and tears that I can’t control began to fall on my face. I felt the presence of Mama Mary on that very moment. In awe, I just kept on telling her that here I am a sinner and I thank her for interceding for me and my family.”

During the homily, the message of Our Lady of Fatima which was centered on peace was repeatedly shared to us and that we were told that peace should start in our self. At the communion, I was one of those who were fortunate to have received the communion near the altar where the image of the Our Lady was displayed. The Image was so beautiful and I felt the holiness of Mama Mary on her. Thus, the longing to touch the image was so strong on me.

However, after the mass it was announced that touching of the image was not allowed. So I just gazed at the Our Lady of Fatima at a distance and offered to her my petitions. Then, I left the cathedral with a light and peaceful feeling.

I was so blessed that day as I believe that through the intercession of Mama Mary God made a way for me to be present and arrived just in time for the said mass. It was not luck that I was able to find a seat with a nice view of the Our Lady of Fatima, it was all part of God’s plan for me. Thus, my encounter with the Our Lady of Fatima was an experience that I cannot forget.

As a parent, I hope that we should look up to Mama Mary as our model. She was a humble and obedient servant of God. May we also try to recite the holy rosary everyday not only to present our personal petitions, but include also the message of peace that the Our Lady of Fatima wants to spread to the whole world. Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us. Amen. (Bing Orbeta-Robles)