Fr. Aleksandr Burgos: The Russian Icon of the Theotokos of Fatima

Editor’s note: in the midst of the Ukraine crisis, OnePeterFive has been promoting devotion to the Russian icon of Our Lady of Fatima on every podcast. We promote this devotion not only for our brethren in Ukraine and Russia, but yet more for the intentions of our patroness, Our Lady of Fatima and the conversion of Russia. OnePeterFive does not take an editorial position regarding the various controversies on Fatima (now entering a new epoch since the Annunciation consecration of this past year). We are currently working to make this icon available for purchase in western Europe and the Americas as a means to support the shrine of Fatima for all Russia in St. Petersburg. For now, please donate to the shrine project here, and read our editorial approach to the Eastern Orthodox here. Join our mailing list for this apostolate by emailing me editor [at] onepeterfive.com. -TSF

Translated from the Russian by L. S. Predy

The Fatima Icon of the Mother of God “By Thee, Unity” (commemorated June 30/July 13) is one of the most famous icons of the 21st century in Russia. It was written in St. Petersburg after many years of prayerful reflection. The writing process itself lasted a year and a half. It involved a Catholic priest who contacted Sister Lucia of Fatima and an Orthodox icon painter who received permission to work from his monk confessor.

The deeper meaning of this icon lies in the whole history of Russia in the 20th century, its suffering and rebirth, as well as its connection with the Universal Church. For this reason, at present, in honor of this image, Catholics want to erect a sanctuary-monastery in St. Petersburg.

Fatima and Russia

The close connection of the message of Fatima with Russia has already inspired many people to participate in the revival of the veneration of the Theotokos on Russian soil. The icon of the Mother of God of Fatima, which I present to you, is a symbol that emphasizes the special relationship of the Blessed Virgin to Russia, manifested in her appearances on July 13, 1917 in Fatima (Portugal) and in June 1919 in Tuy (Spain). There, she spoke about the fact that “Russia will spread its false teachings throughout the world, that will entail wars and persecutions against the Church” and about Russia’s conversion to God after the Pope consecrates Russia to the Immaculate Heart of the Theotokos. It also serves as a reminder that after these apparitions, for decades, millions of people prayed for Russia, so that love for this country arose and prayers were offered up around the globe. In this sense, the icon can help Russia return this spiritual debt and express great gratitude to the Virgin of Fatima. …