Pilgrims on the Road to Fátima

Faith That Walks.
Every year at this time, Portugal’s roads fill with groups of pilgrims. Wearing reflective vests, they walk side by side with one shared destination: Fátima. Considered by many as a “holy land”, the town welcomes thousands of faithful throughout the year, all coming to express their devotion. But it is in May, the month of “Maria”, that everything intensifies, especially in the days leading up to the 13th. May 13th marks the first apparition of “Nossa Senhora” to the three shepherd children – Jacinta, Francisco, and Lúcia – in 1917. According to history, the “Virgem Maria” appeared at Cova da Iria for six consecutive months, always on the 13th, except in August, when the children were taken to Ourém and prevented from being present. During these apparitions, “Nossa Senhora” revealed that Jacinta and Francisco would have short lives, while Lúcia would live for many years to spread devotion to the Immaculate Heart. She also made several requests: that the children learn to read and write, that they pray the rosary every day, and that they pray for peace in the world and for an end to the First World War (1914-1918). On October 13, 1917, during the sixth and final apparition, around 60,000 people gathered to witness the event alongside the three children. According to Lúcia’s account, as “Nossa Senhora” rose into the sky, Saint José appeared with the Child Jesus and “Nossa Senhora”, dressed in white with a blue mantle, blessing the world. Subsequently, they saw “Nosso Senhor”, “Nossa Senhora das Dores”, and finally, “Nossa Senhora do Carmo”. The Miracle of the Sun also occurred during this final apparition. After a heavy downpour, the sun appeared in the sky, moving in a zigzag motion, radiating multicoloured lights. Witnessed by thousands present, many reported miraculous healings. Since then, May 13th has become one of the greatest expressions of faith in Portugal. Pilgrims come from all over the country – walking, in silence or in prayer – carrying promises, stories, and hopes. They walk for days, enduring physical exhaustion in the name of something greater: devotion. Upon arriving at the Sanctuary, it is common to see people fulfilling their promises – kneeling as they circle the “Chapel of the Apparitions”, lighting candles of all sizes, and surrendering to the deep sense of spirituality that surrounds the place. Some go to give thanks, others to make requests, and some just to be there. But all are moved by something profound. More than a tradition, the pilgrimage to Fátima is an act of faith – a journey that is both physical and spiritual. It is a living example that, for many, faith remains a pillar strong enough to move mountains – or, in this case, to carry them for miles.