Procession of Our Lady of Fatima

The Procession of Our Lady of Fatima is an important part of Macau’s intangible cultural heritage.

This annual event pays tribute to apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal in 1917.

Procession of Our Lady of Fatima, Macau, 2024 Dates, Praying, Chanting Ceremony

More importantly, this Catholic holiday is an opportunity to pray for world peace while strengthening the Catholic community in Macau. The origins of the event date back to May 1929 when Bishop Jose da Costa Nunes held a Solemn Pontifical Mass and the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. After the sermon, a procession dedicated to Our Lady of Fatima was initiated.

Today, the Procession of Our Lady of Fatima is among the most significant religious events. The festivities occur every 13^th of May, with celebrations throughout the city.

The Bishop of the Diocese of Macau and various clergy members participate, with local and foreign faithful invited to join in. One of the highlights is the sight of the two girls and one boy donning traditional Portuguese costumes, which represent the shepherds who witnessed the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima.

In addition, a procession also takes place from St. Dominic’s Church to the Penha Chapel as devotees dressed in white transport a majestic statue of the revered Virgin Mary. Aside from being a religious custom, the Diocese of Macao uses the event as an opportunity to express the Catholic faith in a unique form.

For those interested in witnessing the procession, it begins at St Dominic’s Church at 6:30pm; this is also where you may purchase white candles for the procession. Admission is free for everyone.

The Procession of Our Lady of Fatima is a solemn tribute to Mother Mary, so don’t miss it if you are visiting Macau in May.