Fatima Mass and rosary processions return to Sacred Heart of Jesus Diocesan Shrine

BOWMANSVILLE — Fatima, Portugal is a beautiful place to visit and to experience the many blessings and graces received from the town where Our Lady appeared to three shepherd children back in 1917. For many, the ability to travel overseas may seem like a dream. There is no need to miss out on Our Lady’s messages and blessings. Sacred Heart of Jesus Diocesan Shrine in Bowmansville has created a prayerful Fatima locally. Our Lady has called the faithful to do penance, make reparations for sinners, and persevere in prayer through the rosary. It is important to respond to her call, especially today.

Our Lady of Fatima services begin in May and run on the 13th day of every month through October. Except for August (she appeared on the 19th of that month), the services match her apparition dates. Our Blessed Mother appeared to the children with very specific messages that she wanted them to share, Sacred Heart staff will explain those messages each month. A rosary procession will take place outside through the shrine’s beautiful grounds after Mass, weather permitting. The closing service in October will include a candlelight Mass and procession. 

A reception in the parish center will close the season of Fatima services. Outside seats are available for those not able to walk.

On May 1, the Fatima season kicks off with David Carollo, executive director of the World Apostolate of Fatima USA. He previously served as president of the World Apostolate of Fatima USA board of trustees, and as a trustee of the World Apostolate of Fatima International. He manages operations in the United States. He is a Lay Carmelite, a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus, a Knight of the Order of The Archangel St. Michael in Portugal and a Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher.

Carollo is a regular guest on EWTN television, appearing on “Sunday Night Prime,” “The Church Universal,” “At Home with Jim and Joy,” and “Women of Grace.” He was also featured in the network’s Fatima Centennial specials as well as in productions of the apostolate which have been widely viewed on various television stations and on social media. He is heard regularly on Radio Maria and Relevant Radio. 

Carollo was awarded the 2018 Cardinal John P. Foley Award by the Catholic Press Association for demonstrating excellence and innovation in Catholic storytelling. He is a regular speaker at Marian conferences, Fatima events, Catholic universities and parishes, and the Fatima Shrine in Portugal.