After an extremely long bus ride, we eventually arrived in Fatima. Since Jim was here 2 years ago, he knew exactly where to go. We stayed at the Angel of Portugal hotel which was only a few blocks. from the Sanctuary.
By the time we got settled in our hotel, showered, and washed the clothes we had worn that day, it was time for dinner. We got something to eat, then went to the Shrine.
We took part in the nightly procession and rosary. The ceremony, lighting of candles, and candlelit procession begins in a space containing the Chapel of Apparitions, the very spot where our Blessed Mother appeared to three young sheep herders, 10 year old Lucia, and her 2 young cousins, 9 year old Francisco, and 7 year old Jacinta. She then told them to build a chapel for her in that very spot. It's a very moving ceremony, and was a great blessing to be part of the large crowd moving in procession around the large square. Several men in cassocks and surplus carried a type of bier covered with white roses, and a glass case containing one of the statues of Our Lady of Fatima.
The next day we explored the Old Basilica at the Shrine, which is absolutely gorgeous inside. Across the square is the new Basilica which can seat 9,000 people. I wanted to pray a rosary inside, but changed my mind once I entered. The interior, in my opinion, is very sterile and reminds me of a mega church--as much as I hate to admit it, I'm not a fan.
Aside from the new Basilica, I Ioved everything else about Fatima. We visited the homes of the 3 children, which is in a town about one and a half miles from Fatima. Near the town is a beautiful area on which have been built the stations of the cross. The stations are set in an area where it's easy to see the terrain of the entire area 100 years ago when first, the Angel of Peace, then the Blessed Mother appeared to the children. It is an incredible experience to be in such a holy place.
Another incredible experience occurred at Mass on our last morning at Fatima. Each morning there is an English Mass in the sanctuary containing the Chapel of Apparitions. This morning the Mass was celebrated by the Archbishop Emeritus from Kingston, Jamaica. There were a couple of other priests celebrating with him. He was very personable, and took the time after Mass to pose for pictures, and to give individual blessings. He blessed Jim and me with a couple's blessing. That was very special! Jane received an individual blessing, because Ric wasn't feeling well, so returned to the hotel before Mass began. He was okay after a little rest.