On Jue 13, 1917, Mary told Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta, “Jesus wishes to make use of you to make me known and loved.” The children responded with their participation in the apparitions and their exemplary level of devotion until their deaths. Their efforts helped prompt the conversion of tens of thousands in their lifetime and the generations that followed.

“Scripture tells us to teach about the Lord ‘by word, by demeanor, by love, by faith, by integrity. Stay at your post reading Scripture, giving counsel, teaching.’ This verse offers a clear way to spread the Word. We can’t simply repeat Scripture. We have to live it and teach by example. Reciting biblical verses while treating the people around us unkindly is more harmful than our remaining silent. Such actions can turn people away from the Lord, rather than draw them nearer. Scripture must be revealed through our every thought, word, and action.

“And this is the point of the devotion to Mary’s Immaculate Heart. Mary’s heart is pure and open to God. She is our role model for living a life devoted to the Lord. Peace dwells in us when we follow her example. And other people will be drawn to that peace, eager to learn and imitate living a life in Christ.” Excerpt from Fatima at 100. Fatima Today. 

(October 13, 2017, is the 100th Anniversary of the “Miracle of Fatima” and Mary’s message of peace.)