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As patroness of the Americas, Our Lady of Guadalupe is a beloved mother to millions of people. Her feast day, December 12 (which may be celebrated on another day this year, as the Third Sunday of Lent takes precedence), is the perfect time to honor her.
Of course, her feast day is especially significant for Mexicans, since she appeared in Mexico all those centuries ago in 1531. The nation comes together to celebrate her feast.
“Thousands of people walk from the whole country in a pilgrimage and end at the Basilica for 6 a.m. Mass that day,” said Mariyoli Montalvo-Winter, from Mexico City, in an interview with Aleteia. “Famous musicians and singers perform and it’s broadcast on national television.”
Let’s take some inspiration from this beautiful Mexican tradition as we celebrate this great feast!
1Go to Mass
Of course, the best way to honor this feast is to attend Mass and say a prayer before an image of Mary at church.
2Pray the Rosary
Offer Our Lady a spiritual bouquet of roses with this beautiful and spiritually powerful devotion.
3Tell the amazing story
The story of Our Lady of Guadalupe is an incredible and miraculous one. Read a book about the apparition or look up the symbolism of Mary’s famous image on the tilma. There is so much depth and meaning to every part of it!
4Enjoy a Mexican treat and holiday song
Today would be the perfect time to enjoy a traditional Mexican treat like churros with Mexican hot chocolate, or tamales for dinner. Don’t forget to sing to Mary Las Mañanitas, a traditional song for birthdays, feast days, and other special occasions!
5Bring Our Lady real roses
Our Lady of Guadalupe sent St. Juan Diego to gather roses from the hillside and take them to the local bishop. In the same spirit, bring a bouquet of roses or other flowers to lay before an image of Mary at your church, school, or in your home.
