By Katie Beckmann, Communications Manager
Today, December 12th, we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of the Americas and Patron Saint of Mexico.
The story of Our Lady of Guadalupe began in December 1531, as Saint Juan Diego encountered the Virgin Mary twice in Mexico City. First on December 9th and then on December 12th. It is believed that Mary told Saint Juan Diego to ask the bishop to build a church on Tepeyac Hill. The bishop then asked Saint Juan Diego for proof of his encounter with Mary, a miracle. Saint Juan Diego returned to Tepeyac Hill and saw roses in the spot where there were previously cacti. He then showed the roses to the bishop, as well as an image on his cloak of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which was seen as a miracle. The church was then built in honor of this event. (1) (2)
Today, take a moment to pray for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe:
Loving God, as Advent days continue,
we pause to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Honoring Our Lady’s message of hope,
we open our hearts and offer our prayers for all
who are in special need of her help and care this day.
Honoring Our Lady’s message of peace,
we work and pray for the unity of all people,
and for the true and lasting peace on Earth.
Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us.
Patroness of the Americas, pray for us.
Patron of Mexico, pray for us.
Mother of God, pray for us.
Queen of Peace, pray for us.
Amen. (3)