St. Jacinta Marto
Patron Saint of Mental Health
Saint Facts
- Origin:
- Portugal
- Gender:
- Female
- Vocation:
- Laity
- Birth:
- 1900
- Feast Day:
- Feb 20
- Death:
- 1919
Saint Details
St. Jacinta Marto was born on March 11, 1910, in Aljustrel, a small hamlet near Fátima, Portugal. She was the youngest of the three children who witnessed the Marian apparitions of Fátima in 1917, alongside her brother Francisco Marto and cousin Lúcia dos Santos. These apparitions, which occurred between May and October 1917, were later recognized by the Catholic Church as worthy of belief. Jacinta was deeply moved by the messages from the Virgin Mary, which emphasized prayer and sacrifice for the conversion of sinners and world peace.
Jacinta devoted herself to a life of prayer and self-mortification, often practicing stringent sacrifices to fulfill the Virgin's instructions. Her health began to decline due to the Spanish flu pandemic, and she died on February 20, 1920, at the age of nine. Jacinta was beatified on May 13, 2000, by Pope John Paul II, and canonized on May 13, 2017, by Pope Francis, becoming one of the youngest non-martyr saints in the Catholic Church. She is celebrated as a patron saint of the sick and children, with her feast day observed on February 20. Her legacy continues to inspire Catholics worldwide with her unwavering devotion to prayer and sacrifice.
Associated Holy Sites
Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima
Cova de Iria, 2496-908 Fátima, Portugal
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima
Cova da Iria, 2495 Fátima, Portugal
Details for: Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima is a major Catholic pilgrimage site located in Fatima, Portugal. It was built to commemorate the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in 1917. The basilica stands at the heart of the Sanctuary of Fatima, a sprawling complex that attracts millions of pilgrims annually. Its central tower rises 65 meters, topped with a bronze crown and a cross, symbolizing its spiritual significance. Inside, the basilica houses the tombs of the three visionaries, Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta, who witnessed the Marian apparitions. Pilgrims visit to honor Our Lady of Fatima, pray the rosary, and seek spiritual renewal. The site is especially significant during the anniversary of the apparitions on May 13 and October 13, when large gatherings occur. The basilica’s architecture, religious art, and serene atmosphere make it a profound place for reflection and devotion. Its importance lies in its connection to the messages of peace, repentance, and prayer conveyed during the apparitions, which continue to inspire Catholics worldwide.
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