"One of Fatima's greatest prophecies for our time is that humanity finds peace by rediscovering it is family; here, no one is a stranger or alone," Rui Valério said at the closing mass of the pilgrimage to Fatima on 12 to 13 May.

To the thousands gathered, Rui Valério began by declaring that Fatima "is not merely a destination," but "a launching point, a point of commissioning."

“We came as pilgrims and leave as missionary disciples. Our experiences – suffering, prayer, silence, conversion, reconciliation, communion – must not stay in Cova da Iria but enter our homes, families, cities, workplaces, schools, relationships, wounds, joys, tears, and smiles,” he continued.

The patriarch explained that the Message of Fatima truly matters when it becomes a mission. He stressed that being Christian starts when one moves beyond self-focus.

“Christians offer more than words; they offer a received light, a renewed heart, and peace born from contemplation. Thus, Fatima transcends devotion; it is “a school for deep transformation,” he remarked.

Rui Valério emphasised that in Fatima, “humanity rediscovers its path when it lifts its gaze to God.” He highlighted that “in Mary, a new humanity arises,” uniting reconciled hearts, where “others cease to be threats” and are instead recognised as brothers.

To 180,000 pilgrims, Rui Valério noted the “immense multitude gathered in prayer, coming from many places, languages, and stories,” reminded them that they are united by the same light.

The Patriarch reminded the faithful that visiting Fatima or admiring it is not enough; one must embody what it represents and live its message: "It is not enough to light the candle, it is necessary to become light."

"It is not enough to merely pass through this sacred place; we must let its spirit flow through our entire lives," he insisted, urging pilgrims to bring hope to the discouraged, heal the sick, embrace the excluded, share reconciliation where there is division, and foster peace wherever violence threatens to take hold.

Today marks 45 years since the assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II (1920-2005) in St. Peter's Square, Rome, the bullet of which is lodged in the crown of the image of Our Lady.

A chalice that the Polish Pope offered to the sanctuary during one of his three visits to Fatima is being used at the Mass.