Beginning the Pilgrimage: Inspiration, Preparation, and the Theological-Pastoral Congress

Finding Inspiration and Overcoming Challenges

Reflecting on this experience, I feel incredibly honoured to have been part of such a unique, once-in-a-lifetime

opportunity. The journey began in February 2025 at the Word on Fire conference in London, where I met Brother Jerry Rivera, Regional Coordinator for the World Apostolate of Fatima, Western Europe. He introduced me to the vision behind the upcoming World Apostolate of Fatima (WAF) Theological-Pastoral Congress and Pilgrimage. Instantly inspired, I was eager to take part; however, working at a school made it challenging to get leave during the busy winter term. 

Receiving Approval and Signs of Encouragement

After becoming a permanent staff member, I decided to take a chance and make a special request at my school, which

was approved due to the centennial's religious significance. The experience felt spiritually meaningful from the start. I saw rainbows in Portugal and Spain, which I interpreted as signs of encouragement and affirmation for the journey. 

The Theological-Pastoral Congress: Unity and Spiritual Emphasis

The pilgrimage commenced with the Theological-Pastoral Congress, focused on the theme "The Sacred Heart of Jesus

and the Immaculate Heart of Mary." Attendees benefited from a diverse range of perspectives, including presentations by bishops, priests, nuns, subject matter experts, and representatives from the International Secretariat. Notably, Sister Angela de Fatima Coelho, Vice Postulator for the Cause of the Beatification/Canonisation of the Venerable Sister Lucia, delivered an address emphasizing core aspects of the Fatima message. She highlighted conversion, prayer, and penance as essential elements for contemporary society, referencing insights originally shared in a 1996 Portuguese radio broadcast. 

Consecration, Global Prayer, and Collaboration

Sister Angela also discussed the history of the Consecration of Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, recalling

the apparition at Tuy on 13 June 1929, during which Our Lady communicated to Sister Lucia that the moment had arrived for the Holy Father and global bishops to consecrate Russia. This historical context was particularly resonant in light of the contributions of the Ukrainian delegates, who described their ongoing initiative—a 40-hour global Rosary for peace—and invited participants to dedicate thirty minutes to prayer and sacrifice for peace in Ukraine and worldwide. 

Outreach and Personal Connections

This engagement reaffirmed plans for collaboration with Radio Maria England, aiming to provide radios to local care

home residents in 2026, thereby enabling the elderly to remain connected to the international prayer network. Sister Angela further illustrated the significance of personal connection through an account of her visits to her mother, underscoring the importance of bringing joy and happiness to her.

Rosary, Procession, and the Vigil of the Immaculate Conception

The two-day congress concluded with participants gathering at the Chapel of the Apparitions for the Rosary and

a candlelight procession, followed by the Vigil of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. This sequence of events served as a fitting and reverent preparation for the observance of the feast day in a site of profound spiritual significance. 

Pilgrimage Highlights: Sacred Sites and Spiritual Encounters

Visiting the Sites of the Apparitions

On Monday, December 8th, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, we visited Valinhos and Loca do Cabeço, sites of

important apparitions, and toured the homes of Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta in Aljustrel. Their simple lives gave deeper meaning to their commitment. During our free time, I got to visit the museum which highlighted even more the simplicity of the lives of the three shepherd children of Fatima.  We ended the day with a guided tour of the "Refuge and Path" exhibition at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, highlighting Fatima's 100-year legacy. I got the opportunity to join a long line of confessions and went to perpetual adoration. This experience was very humbling and prepared me for the start of this pilgrimage from Fatima to Pontevedra via Balazar.  

Sanctuary of Blessed Alexandrina: Lessons in Suffering and Faith

Our journey continued on the 9th of December 2025 with a visit to the Sanctuary of Blessed Alexandrina Maria da

Costa in Balazar. We prayed at her tomb and participated in a solemn Mass at 12:30 PM. Father Des Farren (from Ireland) delivered an inspirational homily on Blessed Alexandrina’s life, explaining how she lived solely off the Holy Eucharist for 13 years until her death. This was a true miracle of sustenance as Blessed Alexandrina was bedridden and suffered from progressive paralysis for nearly 30 years of her life. His words on surrendering and accepting the cross moved me to the very core of my being. I was deeply touched by the story of Blessed Alexandrina’s bravery—how she had to escape from the man who sought to abuse her, an act of courage that eventually led to her life of suffering. I prayed fervently for the countless women and children around the world today who are facing similar abuse and who are being silenced. Thinking of Blessed Alexandrina’s decades of being incapacitated also brought my own family members to the front of my mind. It hit very close to home because my own uncle has been bedridden and suffering for fourteen years now. I also felt a deep ache for my other relatives and family friends currently battling cancer—including one facing the heavy trial of stage four. I offered my prayers for all those undergoing severe, long-term illnesses; those who, like Alexandrina, suffer in the quiet shadows of life without much recognition. We must continue to offer our prayers for these "silent cross-bearers" who share in Christ’s suffering every day. This visit was the perfect spiritual preparation for what followed. That evening, just before dinner, we travelled to Pontevedra, Spain for the official opening of the Marian Jubilee and the Centenary celebrations at the Convent Shrine of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Commemorating the Centenary of the Apparition

The following morning marked the 100th anniversary of the apparition of Jesus and Mary, which originally took place on

10th December 1925. This significant milestone was honoured through profound liturgical celebrations, beginning with the morning Mass at the Basilica of Santa Maria Mayor at 11:00 AM. Father Martin presided over the service, and from the outset, there was an overwhelming atmosphere of happiness and peace among the congregation.

What made the celebration even more special was Father Martin's thoughtful gesture towards our diverse group of

pilgrims. He shared the message of his homily with the Spanish-speaking attendees, who graciously translated his words into English for those of us less fluent. Although the spirit of the Mass had already touched us, hearing the message in our own language made it even more meaningful and impactful, deepening our sense of connection and understanding.

Later that day, I spent several hours at the Sanctuary of the Apparitions, also known as the House of the Immaculate

Heart of Mary. The time spent in the chapel before the evening Mass at 6:00 PM proved to be deeply moving. The tranquil and sacred atmosphere of this holy place, where Our Lady appeared, allowed me to reflect quietly and truly absorb the peace and grace that permeated the site. Being present in such a hallowed space was an immense gift, and I cherished the opportunity to immerse myself in its spiritual significance. 

Experiencing the Jubilee Celebrations

Musical Unity and Faith

When the service began, I felt incredibly blessed to be seated with the choir, singing along just behind the organist.

This experience prompted me to reflect on our musical practice in my own parish, and I was struck by the beauty of our shared traditions. Despite differences in language and location, the similarities were unmistakable, deepening my appreciation for our faith. We are truly unified—one community bound together by common beliefs and even the same hymns. 

Evening Mass and the Apparition Site

Whilst I attended the evening Mass, other pilgrims gathered in the courtyard of the House Shrine, reciting the Rosary on

the very site where the Child Jesus appeared to Sister Lucia on the 15th of February 1926. It was deeply moving to witness so many priests, mainly from the World Apostolate of Fatima, concelebrating the Mass. Father Des took time to explain the improvements made to the chapel since his previous visit, pointing out the exact location of Sister Lucia’s apparition and describing how the setting faced the cathedral from her bedroom window. 

Atmosphere and Community

The sanctuary itself was beautifully maintained, with volunteers always ready to offer guidance and a warm smile.

Following the evening Mass, we joined a truly spectacular candlelight procession, making our way to the Basilica of Santa Maria Mayor. Seeing so many people attend, filling the streets with shared devotion, was an unforgettable experience. As we walked, Marian hymns echoed through the air, and the sight of World Apostolate of Fatima flags waving beside flickering candles powerfully reminded me of our global community.

A Moment of Grace

There was an atmosphere of pure joy and reverence in Pontevedra. The most emotional moment for me occurred as

the statue of Our Lady and the Child Jesus approached the Basilica. When they reached the door, a profound sense of grace seemed to wash over everyone present. The singing became more personal and heartfelt, with candlelight reflecting off the grand entrance, and the air heavy with prayer. I truly felt Our Lady’s presence among us; it was as if we were all united in welcoming them into the Basilica. My heart was full as I realised, I was part of this remarkable 100-year legacy. 

A Pilgrimage of Profound Encounters

A Glimpse of Heaven in Santiago de Compostela

In Santiago de Compostela, entering the cathedral felt nothing short of heavenly. The grandeur—bathed in gold,

illuminated by radiant light, and watched over by immense angelic figures—created an atmosphere that was truly otherworldly. As I knelt before the altar, tears welled in my eyes and I felt an overwhelming emotion of being in a sacred heavenly place. It felt as if I was gazing directly into the celestial realm itself. In that moment of prayer, I spoke to God, expressing my excitement at the idea that if this was a little taste of Heaven that I got to see, then I greatly looked forward to one day being able to experience Heaven in its fullness. Yet, I also affirmed my happiness to remain here on Earth for now, as I am deeply committed to continuing my mission of sharing Our Lady’s message. After this prayerful encounter, our group gathered to pray at the Tomb of the Apostle St. James and took part in the traditional "Abrazo"—embracing the statue of the Saint at the altar. Before leaving, we travelled to the Carmel of Coimbra, where we met the elderly nuns who lived alongside Sister Lucia, and were blessed to receive third-class relics to bring home to our families. 

A Night of Gratitude and Fellowship

Upon our return from Coimbra, we shared a final and memorable evening together. Following dinner, the Secretariat

organised a heartfelt programme of gratitude. Members of the Secretariat delivered moving speeches, and a very special gift was presented to the pilgrimage leaders, Nuno and Ana, in recognition of their dedication to the World Apostolate of Fatima. We also took a moment to express sincere thanks to our tour guides, whose excellent organisational efforts made the entire experience so enjoyable. The staff of the Domus Pacis were likewise honoured with tokens of appreciation, acknowledging the exceptional care they provided throughout our stay. Serving as a hotel, retreat centre, and the main office of WAF International, Domus Pacis provides an exceptional atmosphere of unity and belonging, which made our stay there even more memorable. 

Farewells and Shared Purpose

The following morning, we gathered for a final breakfast before checking out. Even as our time together drew to a close,

the atmosphere remained one of profound connection and peace, rather than sadness. As we said our farewells, we exchanged contact details and made genuine promises to stay in touch. That last hour was spent "planting seeds" in each other’s missions—pledging to collaborate, share resources, and support one another in spreading Our Lady’s message across our different countries. 

Returning Home and Embracing the Mission

Returning home, I found my team at work weary from the Christmas rush. Aware of the sacrifices they had made in my

absence, I chose to keep my joy quiet at first, as a mark of respect for their efforts. Throughout my pilgrimage, I carried my school and colleagues in my heart, offering prayers for them at each holy site as a way of returning the grace I had received. 

Looking Forward with Renewed Resolve

As I look ahead to 2026, this pilgrimage has strengthened my soul and given me renewed clarity of purpose.

I am determined to spread Our Lady’s message with even greater fervour—"like wildfire"—and to challenge myself by learning Spanish and Latin to better understand the liturgy. Inspired by the New Year’s Day homily, I recognise that we cannot remain silent. Instead, we must be courageous, proclaim our faith openly, and move from merely "surviving" to truly living in Grace. 

Ave Maria and a Blessed 2026 to all!