The Fourth Apparition of Our Lady of Fatima

Date: August 19, 1917

Location: Valinhos, near Fatima, Portugal

The fourth apparition of Our Lady of Fatima holds a special place in the series of Marian apparitions due to the unusual circumstances surrounding it. Unlike the previous apparitions, which occurred on the 13th of each month, this one took place on the 19th of August, 1917.

Background:

The three shepherd children, Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta, were unable to go to the Cova da Iria on the 13th of August as they had been detained by the local authorities. Despite the intimidation and threats they faced, the children remained steadfast in their accounts and devotion. They were released after a few days, and on the 19th of August, while they were tending their sheep at Valinhos, near Fatima, Our Lady appeared to them once again.

The Apparition:

During this fourth apparition, the Blessed Virgin Mary conveyed several important messages:

1. Call to Pray the Rosary: Our Lady once again emphasized the importance of praying the Rosary every day. She urged the children to continue this practice to bring peace to the world and to end the ongoing war (World War I).

   “Continue to pray the Rosary every day to obtain the end of the war.”

2. The Need for Sacrifice: Our Lady requested more sacrifices from the children for the conversion of sinners. She asked them to make sacrifices and offer them to God in reparation for the sins that offend Him and for the conversion of sinners.

   “Pray, pray very much, and make sacrifices for sinners; for many souls go to hell because there are none to sacrifice themselves and to pray for them.”

3. Promise of a Miracle: Our Lady reiterated her promise that a miracle would occur in October so that all may believe in the apparitions. This was a source of great hope and anticipation for the children and the growing number of followers.

Significance:

The fourth apparition reinforces the themes of prayer, penance, and sacrifice that are central to the Fatima messages. It highlights the role of the faithful in interceding for the world and underscores the mercy and love that Our Lady has for humanity.

Suggested Images:

1. Our Lady of Fatima with the Children:

   • An image depicting Our Lady appearing to the three shepherd children at Valinhos.
   • Suggested Caption: "Our Lady of Fatima appearing to the shepherd children at Valinhos on August 19, 1917."

2. The Site of the Fourth Apparition:

   • A photograph of Valinhos, the site where the fourth apparition took place.
   • Suggested Caption: "Valinhos, the location of the fourth apparition of Our Lady of Fatima."

3. The Children in Prayer:

   • An image showing Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta in prayer, symbolizing their devotion and sacrifices.
   • Suggested Caption: "The shepherd children in prayer, embodying the messages of devotion and sacrifice given by Our Lady."