It was an honored mission to represent the International Pilgrim Virgin Statue Foundation to take part in this historic celebration at the Vatican Square. I have set foot in Italy for the first time and with reverent awe, I was tremendously struck at the sight of St. Peter’s BasiIica during the great encounter of the statue of Our Lady of Fatima and the Pope while I waved the IPVS banner with the pilgrims.
With more than a hundred and fifty thousand pilgrims from all over the world, we sang and prayed the rosary in solemn procession before the Mass. The Pope then led the prayer, the Act of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. I joined the delegates of the Confraternity of Mary, MediatrixofAllGrace,fromthePhilippines and California, headed by Rev. Fr. Melvin Castro.
We are very grateful to Her Excellency, Mercy Tuazon, Philippine Ambassador to the Vatican in providing usaspecialpasstoagetaseatonthe main atrium of St. Peter’s Square for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist with Pope Francis.
Our presence here signifies our strong commitment to the message of Our Lady of Fatima and our solidarity with the Holy Father. This is part of the conclusion of the Year of Faith. It united hundreds of movements and institutions connoted with Marian devotions among such group as the IPVS Foundation. The purpose of such event was, in the words of the organizing committee, “to express how the Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, is the icon of faith for every believer and that in her trusting obedience to the will of the Father She was able to work genuine wonders”.
The next day, I flew to Fatima, Portugal where the statue returned in its place in the capelinha. This was a providential occasion where I was able to personally meet with the Bishop of Fatima, Most Rev. Antonio Marto, shook his hands and joined a handful of other pilgrims during the nightly candle light procession in the Cova da Iria. There are no words to describe the peace and tranquility I have experienced in these holy places together with God’s holy people.
Rest assured, I have brought all your petitions there with me. All of you who have supported this ministry and praying for us, too. You have sent me there and I am very grateful. May we all be united in the love of the Blessed Mother as we promote devotions to Her Immaculate Heart.
-patrick sabat
