Blogs

By Kayla Harris, Librarian/Archivist

Commemorating 100 years since the Blessed Virgin Mary first appeared to three shepherd children in the village of Fatima, Portugal, the exhibit highlights the expanse of Marian Library materials. Statues, rosaries, medals, books, postcards, photographs and more illustrate the messages given by Our Lady at Fatima and the devotion the apparitions have inspired in Catholics throughout the world. Two of the three children, siblings Jacinta and Francisco Marto were recently canonized by Pope Francis on May 13, 2017. Their cousin, Sister Lucia wrote about the apparitions in her memoirs and her own words are featured throughout the exhibit. In addition to visual interest, the historical significance of the events are contextualized. The connection of Fatima to anti-communism in a post World War I era is examined, along with the attempted assassination of Pope John Paul II.

From holy cards and souvenir fans, to glow-in-the-dark statues and music boxes, the story of Fatima has been expressed and celebrated in many diverse ways. Thousands of tourists and pilgrims travel to Fatima each year, but you can learn more just by visiting Roesch Library this summer.

In addition to exploring the exhibit, view the Our Lady of Fatima collection online that features a small sample of the Marian Library’s special collection holdings related to Fatima.