Alan Steppe
The Children of Fatima, also known as the Fatima children or the Fatima seers, were three young shepherd children who reported witnessing apparitions of the Virgin Mary in the town of Fatima, Portugal, in 1917. Their names were Lucia dos Santos, Francisco Marto, and Jacinta Marto.
Lucia dos Santos: Lucia was the eldest of the three children and was born on March 22, 1907. She later became a Carmelite nun and lived until February 13, 2005. Sister Lucia, as she was known after entering the convent, dedicated her life to prayer, penance, and spreading the messages of Fatima.
Francisco Marto: Francisco was born on June 11, 1908, and was the older brother of Jacinta. He passed away on April 4, 1919, at the age of 10, just two years after the apparitions. Francisco was known for his deep piety and his desire to console Jesus and Mary through prayer and sacrifices.
Jacinta Marto: Jacinta, the younger sister of Francisco, was born on March 11, 1910. She died on February 20, 1920, at the age of 9. Jacinta was known for her great devotion to the Virgin Mary and her love for sinners. Before her death, she expressed a strong desire to suffer and make sacrifices for the conversion of sinners.
The apparitions of the Virgin Mary to the Children of Fatima occurred on the 13th day of each month from May to October 1917. These events attracted widespread attention and have become one of the most well-known Marian apparitions in history. The messages of Fatima emphasize prayer, repentance, and devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and have had a significant impact on the lives of many Catholics worldwide. The site of the apparitions in Fatima has since become a major pilgrimage destination for believers seeking spiritual blessings and healing.
