Our Lady's Blue Army

In this episode of Fatima Today, hosts Barb Ernster and Katie Moran reflect on the incredible power of intercessory prayer, drawing from the lives of St. Monica and St. Rita. Their perseverance and patience remind us never to give up praying for the conversion of loved ones, as God rewards faithful hearts in ways beyond imagination—just as Monica’s prayers led to the conversion of her son, St. Augustine, who became one of the great doctors of the Church.   We also invite you to join us for our Pilgrimage to Fatima this December—a grace-filled journey to deepen your devotion and experience the heart of the Fatima message. Don’t miss this opportunity to walk where Our Lady appeared and to strengthen your faith in a profound way.   And stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll highlight the lives of Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati and Bl. Carlo Acutis, and the exciting path toward their canonization.

In this third episode of the Fatima Today martyrdom series, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran share the powerful story of Blessed Alexandrina da Costa, often called the “fourth seer of Fatima.” After a heroic act to defend her purity left her paralyzed, she embraced her suffering as a victim soul, offering it for the conversion of sinners. For the last 13 years of her life, she lived on the Eucharist alone, a living witness to Christ’s Real Presence. Her deep devotion, mystical experiences, and life of sacrifice continue to inspire the Church today. We also share news about the upcoming Fatima pilgrimage, December 2–13, 2025, sponsored by the World Apostolate of Fatima. Visit AveMariaTours.org to learn more, and join us in the mission of the Blessed Mother at BlueArmy.com

In this second episode of the Fatima Today martyrdom series, hosted by Barb Ernster with Katie Moran, we look at “red martyrdom” giving one’s life for Christ. On his feast day, we share the inspiring story of St. Maximilian Kolbe: from his childhood vision of two crowns, one white for purity and one red for martyrdom — to his brave fight against evil through his love for the Blessed Mother. You’ll hear about his arrest for helping refugees, his time in Auschwitz, and the moment he offered to die in another man’s place. Even in the starvation bunker, his days were filled with prayer, song, and a deep peace that only God can give.   Stay tuned for the next episode — the touching story of Bl. Alexandrina da Costa, the “white martyr,” who offered her whole life to God through suffering.

In this first episode of the Fatima Today martyrdom series, hosted by Barb Ernster with Katie Moran, learn what it means to be a martyr a witness to Christ and the three kinds the Church teaches: green, white, and red.   Barb and Katie share the August 1917 story of the Fatima children, who were persecuted, jailed, and felt abandoned by their families, yet offered their suffering for sinners. Francisco encouraged them to accept this sacrifice and later felt deep joy and peace, the “martyr’s grace.”   They also reflect on the third secret, when the Angel calls out “penance, penance, penance,” and the vision of martyrs’ blood falling on those walking toward the cross, a path that includes each of us.   They encouraged people to turn their sufferings into sacrifice for sinners, and reminded that many are being called to be “green martyrs” by offering prayer and sacrifice for those who have no one to pray for them.   Don’t miss what’s next — the powerful story of St. Maximilian Kolbe, the “red martyr” who gave hi

In this follow-up episode, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran share Fulton Sheen’s simple but powerful way to make a Holy Hour. He taught that prayer is a conversation, first we speak to God, then we listen as He speaks to us. They explore how to enter into meditation, with help from saints like Teresa of Avila and Mother Teresa, and modern guidance from Fr. Timothy Gallagher. Even in spiritual dryness, like the saints experienced, God is still working.  These insights are drawn from The Holy Hour Prayer Book by Fulton Sheen, available at fultonsheentoday.com.

In this episode of Fatima Today, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran talk about Venerable Fulton Sheen’s secret to powerful preaching—spending one hour every day with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. He never missed a Holy Hour in 55 years and said, “That’s where power comes from. That’s where sermons are born. That’s where every good thought is conceived.” They go through his 10 reasons for doing a Holy Hour and share how this time with Jesus can change your life. They also talk about St. Francisco of Fatima, who loved to sit quietly in church with Jesus, and Sister Lucia, who found wisdom and direction through her time in prayer. This episode will inspire you to make time for Jesus and discover the peace and power that comes from being with Him.

On this feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran reflect on the history and meaning of the brown scapular. Discover its deep connection to Fatima, the role it plays in consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and why this simple devotion is so powerful for our times.

In this episode of Fatima Today, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran introduce you to Bertha Petit, a Belgian mystic whose profound revelations about the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary—received between 1910 and 1942—anticipate and beautifully complement the Fatima message. Discover how Our Lord revealed to her the significance of Mary’s sorrowful heart, the call for worldwide consecration, and how this devotion is central to Heaven’s plan for peace. Through consecration—personal, national, and global—we take part in a divine mission. Draw near to Mary’s Heart and join God’s plan to renew the world through love and sacrifice.

In this episode of Fatima Today, hosts Barb Ernster and Katie Moran take a deep dive into the powerful events of the June 13, 1917 apparition at Fatima. This pivotal moment revealed the mission to spread devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, especially entrusted to Lucia. Hear how the Blessed Mother gave us the promise of salvation, called for personal conversion, and offered her Heart as a refuge and guide for all souls. We also discuss the significance of this devotion in light of the Sacred Heart and Immaculate Heart feast days, highlight the Shrine’s upcoming events, and share insights from the biography Pathway Under the Gaze of Mary.

Barb Ernster and Katie Moran break down the simple steps of the First Saturday Devotion and answer the most common questions people have. Discover why it’s so powerful, what makes it urgent today, and how it ties to the Triumph of the Immaculate Heart. Learn about the Great Promise Passport and Treasures of FSD to help you stay on track. Start your First Saturdays now and help bring peace to the world.

In this episode of Fatima Today, hosts Barb Ernster and Katie Moran explore the rich Marian devotions of the Eastern Church. They discuss the Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos and the deep veneration of the Mother of God under the title of “Protection.” The conversation highlights the miraculous Icon of Our Lady of Mariapovch, which began shedding tears in 1670 and now resides in the Cathedral of St. Stephen in Vienna, with copies in Hungary and at a shrine in Cleveland, Ohio. Katie also shares the story of the apparitions of Our Lady of Hrushiv in Ukraine on May 12, 1914, where the Blessed Mother warned of Russia becoming godless and pleaded for the rosary—drawing a powerful connection to the message of Fatima. The episode concludes with a reflection on four beloved icons traditionally attributed to St. Luke: Our Lady of Vladimir in Russia, Our Lady of Czestochowa in Poland, Salus Populi Romani in Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major, and Our Lady of Perpetual Help in the Church of St. Alphonsus Liguori. These sa

Barb Ernster and Katie Moran share powerful ways to grow closer to the Blessed Mother during the Fatima season. Learn about the Rosary, the Miraculous Medal, the Brown Scapular, the Seven Sorrows, the Little Office of Mary, and more. Visit BlueArmyShrine.com or our YouTube and Facebook pages to watch the May 13 celebration from the Blue Army Shrine. Let this season be a time to deepen your love for Our Lady.

As Divine Mercy Sunday approaches, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran reflect on the life and legacy of Blessed Carlo Acutis—the soon-to-be canonized "millennial saint." In this inspiring conversation, they explore how Carlo’s deep devotion to the Eucharist, quiet sacrifices, and digital evangelization echo the spirit of St. Francisco and St. Jacinta. They also share how April is a powerful month for Fatima devotees, honoring saints like St. Francisco and St. Louis de Montfort. Tune in to hear how Carlo’s example offers a radiant path of holiness for today’s youth in an age of distraction. This episode is pre-recorded. In light of Pope Francis’s passing, the canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis has been deferred. We join in prayer for the Church during this time of transition.

Join Barb Ernster and Katie Moran as they reflect on Jesus’ agony in the Garden of Gethsemane and the “bitter chalice” He accepted out of love for us. This heartfelt episode invites you to enter more deeply into His suffering and respond with prayer, trust, and devotion to the Divine Mercy. Be inspired to comfort the Heart of Jesus and place your whole heart in His merciful hands. Listen now and be renewed in His mercy.

Join Barb Ernster as she speaks with Dave and Joan Maroney of Mother of Mercy Messengers about the extraordinary graces offered on Divine Mercy Sunday. Learn how Jesus revealed this special feast to St. Faustina, why it’s deeply connected to the message of Fatima, and how we can prepare our hearts through the Divine Mercy Novena. Discover the urgency of this devotion for our times—and why now is the time for mercy. Don’t miss this powerful episode—and share it with someone who needs to hear the message of Divine Mercy.

In this episode, Barb Ernster talks with guest Susan Tassone, known as the “Purgatory Lady,” about the Jubilee Year, its significance, and how to gain a special indulgence—including the rare opportunity to receive two in one day. They discuss the importance of forgiving and being forgiven, the connection between indulgences and God’s mercy, and our call to show mercy to others. Plus, hear about the Blue Army Shrine as a Holy Year pilgrimage site. Don’t miss this powerful discussion! Take advantage of this Jubilee Year by seeking God’s mercy, extending forgiveness, and making a pilgrimage. Share this episode with others and start your journey of grace today! #JubileeYear #Indulgences #GodsMercy #PurgatoryLady #SusanTassone #FatimaToday #BlueArmyShrine #HolyYear #Forgiveness #SpiritualJourney #CatholicFaith #DivineMercy #PlenaryIndulgence #FaithInAction #Pilgrimage #YearofGrace

Even those blessed with heavenly visions must work toward holiness. Sister Lucia, known for her strong will and impatience, recognized her faults and made a conscious effort to overcome them. In this episode, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran discuss Lucia’s personal self-examination, where she identified struggles with pride, self-love, lack of charity, and spiritual discipline. Her honest reflection serves as a guide for us, especially during Lent, to examine our own weaknesses and grow in virtue. Through her journey, we learn that holiness is not given but earned through daily sacrifice, humility, and surrender to God’s will.

In this episode of Fatima Today, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran continue their discussion on St. Jacinta’s example of sacrifice and suffering, especially during Lent. They explore how St. Jacinta and St. Francisco embraced small sacrifices with love to help save souls and grow closer to God. Learn how we can follow their example by offering up our own sacrifices, like fasting, almsgiving, and prayer, to deepen our spiritual journey this Lent.

In this episode of Fatima Today, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran talk about St. Joseph—who he was, his family background, and how the Church came to understand his special role. Saints and theologians have taught that he was made holy before birth, like St. John the Baptist, and that he and Mary remained virgins in their marriage. This understanding also helps explain Mary’s question at the Annunciation. The episode also highlights the many important titles God gave St. Joseph to guide and protect Jesus and Mary.

In this episode of Fatima Today, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran discuss the importance of penance during Lent. Katie shares insights into Byzantine Catholic traditions, including the Moleben prayer service and the Pre-Sanctified Liturgy, which differ from the Roman Catholic Stations of the Cross. They also explore the Blessed Mother’s role in establishing the Stations and reflect on the sufferings of Christ as revealed by mystics like Anne Catherine Emmerich.