Church of Our Lady of Fatima

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > Horta > Cedros > Ribeira Funda

Location

The Church of Our Lady of Fátima is located in Ribeira Funda, an area belonging to the parish of Cedros, in the municipality of Horta, on the island of Faial. This location, further from the parish center, gives it an atmosphere of quietude and a particular connection to the local community it served and continues to serve. Its setting within the island's rural landscape provides a serene backdrop for your visit.

The Construction of a Community

The construction of this church resulted from a need felt by the population of Ribeira Funda, due to the considerable distance separating them from the parish church of Cedros. It was an initiative of Father José Silveira Luís, then the local parish priest, who spearheaded its construction. The work was brought to fruition through a remarkable collective effort, with financial support and dedication from parishioners and many Faial residents who, despite residing in the United States of America, contributed with their alms to this community project.

A Landmark of Faith and Celebration

The blessing of the temple occurred on June 16, 1950, marking a significant moment for the community. On that day, a bell and an image of the Virgin were also blessed, elements that became an integral part of the church's heritage. Its official inauguration, on June 18, was a grand celebration that gathered authorities and all the clergy of the island, in an atmosphere of solemn masses and processions, with the local streets uniquely adorned. In subsequent years, pilgrimages from all parishes of Faial, which included passages through other churches to the sound of bells, became a tradition that underscores the devotional importance of this location.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt