# Fátima, the Message and the Apparitions of 1917

Fátima is one of the world’s largest Marian shrines and the spiritual center of the Institute Locus Mariologicus. The apparitions of Our Lady to the three shepherd children, Lúcia, Francisco, and Jacinta, from May to October 1917, constitute the most documented and studied Marian event of the 20th century.

## The Six Apparitions

Our Lady appeared in the Iria Valley six times, from May 13th to October 13th, 1917. In each apparition, the central message was an appeal to prayer (especially the Rosary), penance, and conversion. The ‘Miracle of the Sun’, witnessed by approximately 70,000 people, concluded the apparitions.

## The Three Secrets

Our Lady revealed three secrets: the first is the vision of Hell. The second is the announcement of World War II and Russia’s role. The third was revealed by the Vatican in 2000 and describes an apocalyptic vision. Cardinal Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI) published an extensive theological commentary on the third secret.

## Approval and Impact

The Bishop of Leiria approved the apparitions in 1930. John Paul II, a survivor of the May 13th, 1981, assassination attempt, visited Fátima to give thanks to Our Lady. Fátima annually hosts millions of pilgrims from around the world, making it the second-largest pilgrimage site in Europe.

Dive deeper: Explore Mariology, Our Lady of Fátima, Marian Apparitions, and the Master’s in Mariology.

## The Church’s Magisterium

“The Fatima message comprises three elements: 1) Revelation about the Trinity and the mystery of the Church. 2) An appeal to penance and prayer. 3) A promise of triumph for the Immaculate Heart.”
Congregatio pro Doctrina Fidei, Il Messaggio di Fátima (June 26, 2000)

📚. Literal Translation: The Fatima message encompasses three aspects: 1) Revelation about the Trinity and the mystery of the Church. 2) An appeal to penance and prayer. 3) A promise of triumph for the Immaculate Heart.

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View the complete list of Marian apparitions recognized by the Church.