Lucia dos Santos and her cousins, Francisco and Jacinta Marto, were surprised to be visited by a mysterious and celestial woman, who called herself “Our Lady of the Rosary.” She asked that her children pray the rosary every day for world peace. Just as she invited the three children to consecrate themselves and call on her Immaculate Heart for her intercession in a restless world, Mary also wants us to partake in this spiritual exercise. How many Catholics truly pray the rosary every day? I encourage you to make time for this powerful and beautiful devotion.  

Mary revealed secrets at Fatima that ultimately came true in our history. We are called to listen to her with attentiveness, faithfulness and the innocence of a child. Just as we respect and honor the wishes of our own mothers, we must work with diligence to listen to the mother of the Church and honor her at every moment.  

As we continue celebrating this Jubilee Year of Hope and “Proclaim the Faith” with Via Fidelis, I ask that you make a special effort this month to reach out to people in your life who are alone; comfort them with the knowledge that they have a loving and caring mother in heaven. With hearts full of trust, let us say “yes” to Mary and join her in bringing the light of Christ to a world so desperately in need of it.

I offer prayer for and encouragement to all mothers — whether spiritual, biological or adoptive — and those who long to be mothers. As St. Francis de Sales reminded us, “Let us run to Mary, and, as her little children, cast ourselves into her arms with a perfect confidence.” 

In Christ’s love, 

Most Rev. Jacques Fabre-Jeune, CS 
Bishop of Charleston