Fatima Candlelight Procession in Basel on May 23, 2025 – A Sign of Faith and Hope
A candlelit procession, accompanied by prayer, singing and music – once again this year, more than 300 believers gathered in Basel for the Fatima candlelight procession to express their devotion to the Blessed Mother. Deep-rooted faith, moving moments and a special atmosphere characterized this solemn evening.
The procession took place on the evening of May 23, 2025 – a solemn occasion that has been organized by the Militia Immaculatae for several years. With flags, brass music, singing and prayer, more than 300 believers, including many families and young people, gathered to express their devotion to Mary, the Mother of God.
The procession commemorates the apparitions of Fatima (Portugal), recognized by the Catholic Church, which began on May 13, 1917. At that time, Mary appeared to three shepherd children and spoke to them about the importance of prayer and inner conversion (to God). At its last apparition on October 13, 1917, 70,000 people experienced a miracle of the sun that led many to faith.
While the procession moved along the banks of the Rhine at dusk, the participants sang the rosary and other songs. Their burning candles gave the procession a special atmosphere, while the “Ave, Ave, Ave Maria” could be heard far across the Rhine. In solemn accompaniment, the statue of the Blessed Mother was carried by four men in suits, followed by a music band.
“Every year, the Fatima procession is a great joy for me. It is something special to publicly honour the Mother of God, to accompany her musically and to experience this unique atmosphere.” – Andreas, Head of Brass Music
The destination of the procession was once again the Spalentor, where Mary is venerated as the patron saint of Basel. There the faithful made a consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary – a sign of devotion and trust in the intercession of the Blessed Mother.
“The Fatima procession is a wonderful opportunity for us to be united in prayer and to entrust our petitions to the hearts of Jesus and Mary. “ – Carlos
In his moving speech, Father Zahner explained how Mary acts as a mediator between God and people and always offers them her help. He emphasized the importance of devotion to Mary and encouraged everyone to entrust themselves to her in a childlike way.
The Fatima processions in Basel have a long tradition. As early as 1952, 20,000 believers gathered to honour the Blessed Mother. Since 2022, this annual procession has been organized again by the Militia Immaculatae Basel and is enjoying growing popularity.
“For my family and me, the Fatima procession is a special event every year. Praying together in this beautiful atmosphere and living our faith fills us with joy and strengthens us.” – Daniela
The event recalls the words of the Blessed Mother in Fatima: the prayer of the Rosary and the devotion to her Immaculate Heart as a path to hope and peace in the world.
More pictures
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Images: Copyright MI-Basel. May God reward the photographers.
