SISTER LUCIA SAYS REQUEST FOR CONSECRATION WAS FULFILLED

      Amid the lengthy commentary on the Third Secret released Monday was confirmation that the March 25, 1984 consecration of Russia to the Immaculate Heart fulfilled the request by Mary at Fatima.

       "Sister Lucia personally confirmed that this solemn and universal act of consecration corresponded to what Our Lady wished," says the official Vatican commentary, quoting a November 8, 1989, letter in which Sister Lucia wrote, "Yes it has been done just as Our Lady asked, on 25 Match 1984." 

    Says the Vatican: "Hence any further discussion or request is without basis."

       In 1917 Mary said that if Russia was consecrated to her heart it would be stopped from spreading its errors around the world and a "period of peace" would be given to mankind. It was immediately after the consecration that Communism fell in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, and tensions greatly eased between superpowers. The issue has long been a hot point of contention, with some claiming the consecration was never done and attacking Pope John Paul II for this perceived failing.