Can a single Communion change a life forever?
The story of Saint Francisco Marto, the little shepherd boy of Fatima who died at just 10 years old, invites us to rediscover the greatness of the Eucharist and the value of silence and adoration.
Every February 20, the Church celebrates Saints Francisco and Jacinta Marto, the shepherd siblings who, together with their cousin Lucia dos Santos, witnessed the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Fatima.
A child marked by the Eucharist
Francisco was a very humble boy whose life revolved around one great love: Jesus in the Eucharist. He died at only 10 years old, yet his story continues to resonate deeply.
He received Jesus in the Eucharist only once… and that single Communion was enough for him to live — and die — as a true saint.
From the moment the Angel and the Virgin Mary appeared in Fatima, Francisco understood that he had a specific mission: to console Jesus, “so offended” by the sins of the world.
While others were curious about the messages, he was drawn to recollection, prayer, and adoration. He loved being “with Him” — without many words, simply heart to heart.
