Fatima Hymn (The Shepherds were Watching)

This hymn is about Mary's appearances at Fatima. The author is unknown. The hymn is included in a booklet published by the Legion of Mary in Australia (ref), and the 7th verse refers specifically to Australia - it's not clear if this was adapted from another hymn, or written specirficlly in Australia.

It is set to a traditional Portuguese tune, known in English as the Fatima Ave. The composer is also unknown.

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Piano sheet music

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Examples

Instrumental, electronic organ:

Lyrics

The shepherds were watching
Near that stunted tree.
Francisco, Jacinta,
Lucia made three.

Chorus:
Ave, ave, ave Maria,
Ave, ave, ave Maria.

2 There came from the heavens
A flashing bright light;
The children stood watching,
All stricken with fright.

3 There stood a fair lady
On top of the tree;
She smiled at the children,
And spoke tenderly.

4. 'Twas Mary, our Mother
From Heaven above;
She gave them a message,
A warning with love.

5. Her message repeated
The words of her Son;
By prayer and by penance
Will heaven be won.

6 She asked them to tell us
To pray on our beads,
For peace among nations,
For all sinners' needs.

7. Our gum trees were growing
Near that hallow'd tree;
Australia was present
For Mary to see.

8. Oh! Pray for our country,
And keep her from harm,
Madonna so lovely,
And Fatima's charm.