Portuguese nun inspires Asian Youth with a message of hope at Fatima Convention in Philippines

Over 1,300 faithful gathered at the Mary Mother of Hope Chapel in Quezon City, Philippines, on December 10, 2024, to celebrate the National Fatima Convention marking the Centenary of the Five Saturdays Devotion.

The event was highlighted by a powerful message of hope and faith delivered by a Portuguese nun, captivating the hearts of Asian youth in attendance.

Sister Angela Coelho, a Portuguese nun who played a significant role in the canonization of Fatima visionaries Francisco and Jacinta Marto, delivered an inspiring message to the youth, many of whom are grappling with doubts about faith and direction in life.

Acknowledging the unique challenges faced by today’s younger generation, Sr. Coelho encouraged those feeling lost to find solace and guidance in the Blessed Mother. “Turn to the Blessed Mother,” she said, describing Mary’s heart as a “refuge — a safe place in times of difficulty.”

Reflecting on the message of Our Lady of Fatima, Sr. Coelho emphasized that the Blessed Mother not only offers comfort but also leads believers toward God, helping them rediscover life’s deeper meaning.

“Many young people are struggling with the meaning of their lives, which leads to sadness and despair,” she noted. “Our Lady can help us find meaning and, in turn, bring true happiness.”

Sr. Coelho, who is also the vice-postulator for the beatification of Sister Lucia, the third Fatima visionary, and superior general of the Portuguese congregation Aliança de Santa Maria, highlighted the enduring relevance of the lessons imparted by the Fatima children.

“One of the key lessons,” she said, “is to put God at the center of your life.” She explained that many believers feel God’s presence, but it is often on the periphery rather than at the core. The Fatima children, however, learned to make God the focal point of their lives, a principle that shaped their decisions and priorities.

“Much of human suffering stems from allowing secondary concerns to overshadow God,” Sr. Coelho explained. “When we mix everything up, we lose energy and fall into sadness.”

The convention also served as the launching platform for the Pilgrim Image of the Immaculate Heart of Mary of Pontevedra. This iconic image is set to visit dioceses across the Philippines in 2025, promoting the message of Fatima and the Five First Saturdays Devotion, a spiritual practice of reparation to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Bishop Guillermo Afable, national spiritual director of the World Apostolate of Fatima (WAF) Philippines, urged attendees to share their devotion in their parishes and communities.

“As we prepare for the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025, let us welcome the Pilgrim Image of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and deepen our devotion to our Mother Mary, the source of our joy and hope,” he said.

The National Fatima Convention underscored the universal message of Fatima, resonating with the diverse spiritual landscape of Asia. As the Pilgrim Image begins its journey, it invites all believers to embrace the transformative call to faith, hope, and devotion, uniting communities across the region in prayerful solidarity.