As the world turns its eyes to Afghanistan with anguish and concern, this consecration is remembered with hope.
Newsroom (August 19, 2021 3:04 PM, Gaudium Press) – Since last Sunday, when representatives of the Taliban occupied the presidential palace, the world has looked with anguish and apprehension at the tragic events in Afghanistan and an uncertain future with their possible negative repercussions. However, we recall that the country was consecrated to Our Lady of Fatima in 2017, on the 100th anniversary of the apparitions of the Virgin Mary at Cova da Iria.
At that time, the situation was in sharp decline. Fr. Giovanni Scalese held a consecration ceremony in the chapel of the Italian embassy in Kabul. Built in 1933, the Chapel is the only Catholic temple in the country. During the ceremony, Afghanistan was placed under the protection of Our Lady of Fatima and her Immaculate Heart:
“This year is the centennial of Fatima, today is the anniversary of the last apparition: Why not consecrate ourselves, as individuals and as a Christian community, and consecrate this country to the Immaculate Heart of Mary?”
Back then, AsiaNews reported the fact, noting that the increase in violence had been one of the factors for carrying out the consecration.
Indeed, it turns critical today, as thousands are fleeing Afghanistan, and those who remain are apprehensive and fearful.
With files from Churchpop
Compiled by Gustavo Kralj
