On Tuesday, May 7, Bishop Carl A Kemme blessed the Fatima scene situated on the grounds of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Sisters. The marble statues were carved in Florence, Italy and now grace the property south of Colwich. Visitors to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Motherhouse can contemplate one of the angelic Fatima apparitions while praying the rosary.

The sisters have installed four statues that depict the third visit of the Angel of Peace to Lúcia, Jacinta, and Francisco in 1916. This event was a prelude to subsequent visits by the Blessed Virgin at Fatima in 1917.

Mother Cecilia Marie emphasized that a significant aspect of IHM charism is devotion to Our Lady, particularly her Immaculate Heart. This was something that the Blessed Virgin revealed to the children in June 1917. "The main message of Our Lady at Fatima is prayer for the conversion of sinners," she explained. "Our prayer apostolate is directed toward praying for the conversion of sinners, as well as adoration of Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament."

Mother Cecilia Marie noted that Mother Mary Magdalene, who was then General Superior of IHM Sisters, initiated this project during the launch of a three-year Eucharistic Revival. The National Eucharistic Revival is an initiative by U.S. bishops designed to inspire and unite faithfuls towards a more intimate relationship with Jesus in Eucharist.

The angelic scene was installed not only for contemplation and veneration but also for those who participate in processions and retreats held at their property.

"As Sisters of Immaculate Heart of Mary, we find resonance with Our Lady's message at Fatima," said Mother Cecilia Marie. She added that prayers for conversion were emphasized by their founder in 1848.

The Venerable Joaquin Masmitjá, born in Spain in 1808, founded the IHMs. "These are the things that we're all called to do as a church militant," she said.

The prayer taught by the angel to the children is still pertinent today, especially when belief in the Eucharist is waning. The angel prayed with the children and made them repeat a prayer three times.

Mother Cecilia Marie said this prayer reflects part of their spirituality. Through adoration, they can offer reparation to Our Lord in Eucharist, the Sacrament of His Enduring Love.

Cody Swanson, sculptor of the marble statues, expressed his gratitude to the Sisters of Immaculate Heart of Mary. He said it was an honor to sculpt this work and he hopes it will help faithfuls feel closer to God and inspire veneration of the Eucharist.