ATLANTA—In the spring of 1916, the wonders began. Three rural shepherds, siblings Francisco and Jacinta Marto, 7 and 8, and their cousin Lucia dos Santos, 9, saw a supernatural light in the form of what seemed to be a young man. Over a year later, on the 13th of October, 1917, an estimated 70,000 pilgrims and skeptics witnessed a “dance of the sun,” accompanied by messages to the young seers from Jesus’ mother Mary. These solar phenomena and a series of messages from heaven in the small village of Fatima, Portugal, brought teachings of peace in the midst of World War I.

The original statue of Our Lady of Fatima is seen before Pope Francis celebrates Mass in honor of Mary in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Oct. 13. The pope entrusted the world to Mary at the end of the Mass. CNS photo/Paul Haring

An amazing two years of apparitions, beginning with the appearances to the seers of the Angel of Portugal, were to renew Catholic devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary in the modern era. Fatima’s vision of peace continues. Pope Francis urges devotion to Our Lady of Fatima.

Come join the Cathedral of Christ the King’s Rosary Group for a program on Fatima Friday, May 20, at 7 p.m. in Kenny Hall. Father Jose Kochuparampil will offer reflections on the love of the Blessed Virgin Mary for all people and share insights into her teachings to the seers of Fatima where she encouraged intimate love for her Divine Son Jesus. Fatima’s message of prayer and sacrifice to the Blessed Mother through the Holy Spirit are the keys to personal and world peace, Catholic believers attest.

A deeply informative 50-minute film, “Fatima, Altar of the World,” will offer viewers an extraordinary view of Fatima through the years with first-hand photographs and films of the events that transformed a rural town into “the altar of the world.” Refreshments will be served and book tables will offer a variety of titles on Fatima’s message, which has been endorsed by every modern pope. All are invited to join the Rosary Group in prayers for peace.

For further information on the religious aspect of this Fatima and documentary film event, please contact Father Kochuparampil at 404-233-2145, ext. 406. For other questions about the evening, please contact 404-233-2661.