Seven Reasons to believe in the Marian Apparitions at Fatima
By Jean M. Heimann The Church has never required the faithful to believe in any apparitions, except those described in Scripture. Belief in credible apparitions such as Fatima in 1917, is not necessary for salvation. However, these apparitions are valuable because they lead us to greater devotion, increase our awareness of our beliefs, and promote growth in holiness. Why should we believe in the apparitions at Fatima? 1. The local bishop and the then Cardinal of Lisbon conducted a comprehensive canonical inquiry, which led to a decision on May 13, 1930, that the claims were worthy of human faith, and official devotion to our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima was approved. 2. Pope Pius XII promoted devotion to Our Lady of Fatima and consecrated the world to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. He renewed that consecration in Rome the following feast of the Immaculate Conception, December 8, 1942, to chose to close the Holy Year at Fatima on October 13, 1951. 3. Pope Paul VI went to ...