Posted October 9, 2015

In honor of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima and in reparation of her Immaculate Heart, St. Paul Parish in East Norriton will hold its 20th annual commemoration of the final apparition of Our Lady at Fatima on Monday, Oct. 12 at 7 p.m. in the church.

During the opening procession in the church, led by the parish’s pastor, Father Harry E. McCreedy, the Pilgrim Virgin of Fatima statue will be welcomed with of strewing of petals, a Fatima tradition.

The evening duplicates elements of the solemn observance in Fatima that is held every Oct. 12 marking the vigil of the final apparition in 1917 in Portugal when she identified herself, saying, “I am the Lady of the Rosary,” and during which thousands witnessed the “Miracle of the Sun.”

In the presence of the Pilgrim Virgin of Fatima statue, the congregation at St. Paul’s will pray the rosary by candlelight and hold their candles aloft during the “Glory be…” and the “Fatima Ave” which concludes each decade.

This year, cognizant of the Synod of Bishops concerning families and evangelization, the rosary will be prayed for resolution of the international conflicts and terrorism that are prevalent today and the impingement on religious liberty.

The evening continues with acts of entrustment of families and the United States to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. As is done in Fatima, the service will culminate with benediction of the Blessed Sacrament and will conclude with the singing of the moving “Fatima Adeus,” during which the congregation will wave handkerchiefs in loving tribute to Our Lady.

St. Paul Parish invites the community to join in this devotion to Mary. Candles will be available as well as handkerchiefs for the traditional “Fatima Farewell.”

A social with refreshments for all participants will be held in the parish hall following the devotion.

St. Paul Church is located at New Hope Street and Johnson Highway, East Norriton.

For more information call 610-279-6725.