John De Marchi (1914–2003)

John de Marchi's spent three years living in Fatima and wrote his findings no more than 40 years after the events, and while many people of the village, and many included those who were related to or actually knew the three little seers. This first hand research of interviews of eye witness are no longer possible as all have now passed.

The interviews are what make this booklet on Fatima so special. And the vivid descriptions of what the Mother of God said to the children, and the words of the Angel. But mostly the descriptions and analysis of the great miracle of the sun on October 13, 1917 by priests, the children, many eye witnesses, local newspapers and many detractors including the government. The version I have includes appendix that add a lot of additional clarifications I found very helpful.

It should also speak volumes that this work was checked by Sister Lucia in person before publication.… (meer)

The book is written as a report of observations obtained in and from a community in Portugal where there occurred apparitions of Mary, the Virgin Mother of God in the year 1917. It is based on on-site observations and information gained from many interviews by one who was skeptical about the apparitions.

Most of the world and even most Catholics know very little of the facts about these apparitions. This book provides a factual account of Mary, the Virgin Mother, appearing to three little shepherd children, ages 7 to 10 years, at a specific time and at a specific place. One would think all would be rosy for those so privileged by such visitations from Mary, the Mother of Jesus. To the contrary - the children were not believed, even by their own families. Nor did the church community or its officials believe them. What of secular community? By the non-religious, the children were mocked, threatened and even persecuted.

The book’s cogent authenticity is carried by the children's extraordinary maturity in handling all of these sufferings. They demonstrate maturity, humility and constancy in their devotion to The Virgin Mother and her requests of them.

It’s a book that can dramatically change one’s thinking, and bring about a paradigm shift by the knowledge that The Divine is not only merciful but extends that mercy in practical ways – even to those who are hard-set against God.… (meer)

Excellent account of the apparitions of Fatima, of Our Lady's and the Angel of Portugal's messages to the three children: Lucia, Jacinta and Francesco. As a convert, I had never heard of Fatima other than perhaps the sound of the name, and more likely not. But to come to Mary in Fatima opens the mind and heart to a new reality of the Blessed Virgin Mary and her love and concern for the world, for conversion of souls and reparation of sins. Captivating. Inspires a pilgrimage not only of the heart and soul but if possible, for one to physically make the trip.… (meer)