More than 250,000 Catholic pilgrims gathered in Portugal for the annual Mass of the Blessing of the Candles, one of the country’s largest religious celebrations.
The ceremony, held at the renowned Marian shrine of Sanctuary of Fátima, drew worshippers from across the world who came to pray, light candles, and take part in the solemn procession.
Pilgrims carrying candles filled the sanctuary grounds as religious hymns and prayers echoed through the gathering. Church leaders described the event as a symbol of faith, hope, and spiritual renewal.
The Mass marks an important moment in the Catholic calendar and is traditionally associated with devotion to the Virgin Mary. Many attendees also offered prayers for peace, healing, and global unity.
Security and emergency services were deployed throughout the event to manage the large crowds, while organizers described this year’s turnout as one of the biggest in recent years.