Reflection by: Nicole Chow
Chronicles of a pilgrim – Day 15 – FATIMA/NAZARE/LISBON
#sequelachristi2024
Day 15 was an eventful day filled with movement as we journeyed from one place to another with each stop offering its own experience. We started with a Mass celebration at the Parish Church of Fatima, with its own unique charm despite its simple design. We also visited the original graves of the three children who witnessed the Marian apparition of Our Lady of Fátima and their relatives. Though our time there was brief, it felt personally meaningful as I had the chance to do the scripture readings, which added a layer of connection to the whole place.
Later, we travelled to Nazare where we visited the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazareth. The vibrant blue and white tikes that adorned the walls and ceilings of the sanctuary felt like a delicate tribute to the town’s rich heritage. The most memorable moment was when I sat on the cliff rocks, taking in the sweeping panoramic views of the ocean. The sun and breeze made it all the more invigorating, with the sounds of the waves crashing below. I couldn’t resist dipping my toes into the cool waters and feeling the pull of the sea beneath my feet, grounding me in that moment of peace amid nature’s vastness and strength. Overall, the day felt very healing as we were surrounded by nature.