This gesture of solidarity not only gives relief to the needy, but also reinforces the message of hope and compassion that Poe Francis has kept alive in the midst of the tragedy of war Photo: Vatican Media

Famous Japanese Visionary of the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Akita, Died

Born in 1930 in a Buddhist family, Sister Agnes’ life changed radically when a Christian nurse offered her water of Lourdes, which led to her conversion to Christianity. Baptized as Agnes, her name would soon become known throughout the Catholic world due to the visions and messages that, according to her, she received of the Virgin Mary, who is known under the advocation of Our Lady of Akita.