The Messenger and the Message
The Virgin Mary: Heaven’s Messenger of Peace
From the earliest days of the Church, the Virgin Mary has been honored as the Mother of God and the faithful intercessor for all humanity. According to ancient tradition and the words of Christ at His Ascension — entrusting His followers to her maternal care — Mary’s mission did not end in the first century. She continues to draw near to her children, appearing in every age and in many parts of the world, as a visible reminder of her role as our advocate before her Son.
These apparitions are never random. They come at moments of spiritual crisis or moral darkness, calling the world to repentance, prayer, and a return to God. In the modern era, the 1917 apparitions at Fatima stand among the most urgent and prophetic. Over six months, Mary appeared to three shepherd children in a small Portuguese village, warning of the dangers of sin, war, and disbelief — and offering a clear remedy for peace: prayer (especially the Rosary), penance, and consecration to her Immaculate Heart. From her very first visit to the children on May 13, 1917, Her call was clear: Lucia hesitated, gathering the meaning of the silent words. “She wants us to come here to the Cova on the thirteenth day of each month, at the same hour, for five more months — until October. She asks if we want to offer ourselves to God… to suffer and make sacrifices. She says God is very sad. Many people offend Him on purpose. Some offend and don’t even know they’re doing it. But He loves them and wants them in heaven when they die. We would suffer — do penance for their sins and make sacrifices for their souls.” On July 13th, the Lady’s message became even more urgent: Lucia said, her expression darkened. “She said there would be a sign in the night sky. It will light up with bright colors like never before. This will be a sign that the world will punish itself with war and hunger. We will hurt one another… and many will suffer and die.” Francisco wrung his hands. “Can we do anything to stop it?” “Not alone,” Lucia said. “The Holy Father must give this Russia to the pure heart of our Beautiful Lady.” Jacinta tapped her chin. “I wonder where this Russia lives?” “Will the Holy Father find her?” Francisco asked. Lucia sighed. “He will… but not for a long, long time. When the second war ends, there will be peace. For a while, anyway.” Then she brightened. “But in the end, Her Immaculate Heart will triumph!” Given in the first century of this moment in time — the 20th century — the Fatima message remains startlingly relevant today. It is not a relic of history but a living blueprint for peace in our homes, our nations, and our world. Mary’s words and witness remind us that Heaven has not abandoned us; through her, Christ still reaches into history, offering mercy, hope, and the path back to Him.
