The Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Urduja, Caloocan City has been elevated into a diocesan shrine.
Parish priest and rector Rev. Fr. Aristeo De Leon said the parish’s elevation into a diocesan shrine will help deepen and strengthen the spiritual life of the faithful.
“Devotees and pilgrims will come to the parish to seek the intercession of Our Lady of Fatima to pray for peace and to find the way towards her Son, Jesus, the Prince of Peace,” said Fr. De Leon over Radio Veritas.
The priest reminded the faithful that with the elevation of the parish into a diocesan shrine, the faithful are reminded of Our Lady’s message in Fatima to the shepherd children – Lucia. Francisco and Jacinta – when she speared before them in a series of apparitions in Fatima, Portugal 1917, that was to pray and to offer sacrifices for the sins committed by mankind.
“Pray the holy rosary and perform acts of mercy and compassion and you will find peace in your hearts and be in solidarity with your families and the community where you belong,” said Fr. De Leon.
Diocese of Novaliches Bishop Roberto Gaa led the Church rites during the event. The bishop reminded the faithful of the responsibility that comes with the elevation of the parish into a diocesan shrine, that is, to spread the message of the Blessed Mother to the three children.
Established in Oct. 21, 1972, the special event coincided with the 50th anniversary of the parish.