The memoirs of sister lucia

SECOND MEMOIR Introduction The first manuscript of Lucia’s Memoirs made it clear to her Superiors that she was still jealously guarding quite a number of things which she would probably reveal only under obedience. In April, 1937, Fr. Fonseca wrote to the Bishop: “...The First Memoir makes one think that there are further interesting details in the history of the Apparitions... which are not yet known. Would it not be possible, or would there be any difficulty in persuading Sister Lucia to write down in detail, conscientiously and with the simplicity of the Gospel, and in honour of the Blessed Virgin, every single thing she still remembers? This is an idea, and should you find it helpful, only Your Excellency can put it into effect...”

In agreement with the Mother Provincial of the Dorothean Sisters, Madre Maria do Carmo Corte Real, Bishop José gave Lucia the necessary order. In reply, she wrote to the Bishop on November 7th, 1937: “I have already begun today, for this is the Will of God.” Thus, this manuscript was started on November 7th, and finished, as we know, on the 21st... That means it took her only a fortnight to compose such a long document. Besides, she was frequently interrupted by housework, which did not allow her any free time. As already mentioned, the document consisted of 38 pages, filled front and back with close handwriting, almost without corrections. Once again, we see how this reveals Sister Lucia’s clear mind, her composure and her mental equilibrium.

The subjects dealt with in this Memoir are even more surprising: angelic apparitions, extraordinary blessings on the occasion of her First Communion, the Immaculate Heart of Mary in the Apparition of June, 1917, and many other details totally unknown until then.

What Sister Lucia intended when she wrote this account is explained by her as revealing “the story ot Fatima just as it is.” Therefore, it was not a question of a few biographical data as in the previous Memoir, where the subject of the Apparitions was kept in the background. In the present Memoir, the Apparitions themselves are given more prominence.

The spirit in which Lucia wrote can be gathered from the words: “No longer will I savour the joy of sharing with You alone the secrets of Your love, but henceforth, others too, will sing the greatness of Your mercy...

Behold the handmaid of the Lord! May He continue to make use of her, as He thinks best.”

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