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A photograph taken by Sean Whittle at the first Welkom Fatima Festa in 1973. Children dressed as Fatima seers can be seen in front of the statue of Our Lady of Fatima in the sanctuary of St Dominic's Church in Welkom. (Image:Supplied)
The Catholic community of Welkom will gather once more on 12 October 2025 at St Dominic’s Church to celebrate the Festa de Nossa Senhora de Fátima - a tradition now 52 years strong. Rooted in the 1917 apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Fátima, Portugal, the festival calls for prayer, penance, and conversion, echoing the message given to three shepherd children: Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta.
Nicolette Whittle shared with Uplift Media News the history and profound meaning behind the festival. She says the Welkom Fátima Festa began in 1973, thanks to the vision of Mr. Joao Farinha and her father, Dr. Luky Whittle. “Mr. Farinha approached my mother with the idea,” says Nicolette.
“They met with Fr Carel Spruyt, who lifted his rosary and said, ‘How can I possibly refuse?’ That moment sparked a spiritual tradition that has endured for generations.”
“Held near the anniversary of the Miracle of the Sun, the celebration includes Mass, a candlelit procession of the statue of Our Lady, and the recitation of the rosary. Children dressed as the Fátima seers bring the story to life, while hymns and flowers fill the church with reverence and joy.”
Even during the pandemic, the devotion persisted. “It was a difficult time,” says Nicolette. “But the spirit of the Festa remained alive in private prayer and hope.”
Today, the daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Farinha - Fernanda, Ermelinda, and Alice - carry the torch, ensuring the celebration continues. “It is more than tradition,” says Nicolette, “It is our heritage, our spiritual anchor, and a reminder of the power of prayer.”
“It is a radiant symbol of faith, com-munity, and enduring devotion - drawing hearts together in prayer, celebration, and shared purpose.” “It is the one day where our faith feels tangible,” said a parishioner. “You can feel the unity, the peace – it is beautiful.”
