Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma will lead the blessing and consecration of the first replica chapel of Our Lady of Fatima Southeast Asia on Monday, April 4.
Called the Capelinha de Fatima Replica, the chapel, the fourth of its kind in the world, is located in San Remigio, Cebu.
Bishop Guillermo Afable, national spiritual director of the World Apostolate of Fatima said, the pilgrim chapel will further enrich the faith of devotees of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The bishop called on the faithful to continue to seek the Holy Mother’s intercession amid the violence and strife around the world.
"In the midst of challenges and tribulations, let us ask the guidance of our Blessed Mother. It is time for us to raise the banner of Our Lady. Let us continue doing good amid the violence and conflict around the world,” Bishop Afable said over Radio Veritas.
The blessing and consecration of the replica chapel will coincide with the death anniversary of San Francisco Marto, one of the three shepherd children of Fatima to whom Our Lady appeared in an apparition in 1917.
The replica image of Our Lady of Fatima from Portugal from the Sanctuario de Fatim will also be enshrined. On Sunday, April 3, there will be a film showing on the life of Saints Jacinta, Francisco and Lucia at 8 p.m. It will be followed by the praying of the holy rosary, the singing of Marian hymns, sharing of stories and experiences on Our Lady of Fatima and confession during the overnight vigil.
Organizers are calling on those planning to join the celebration to observe safety health protocols.