On Thursday, thousands of Mexicans gathered at the Basilica of Santa María de Guadalupe to honor the Virgin Mary, affectionately known as “Mama Lupita,” on the 493rd anniversary of her appearance in 1531. The celebration was marked by mariachi songs and traditional folk dances, with attendees singing the customary birthday song “Las Mañanitas” at dawn.
This year’s festivities were particularly significant after the Mexican Catholic Church urged criminals to observe a truce during the celebration. This call for peace aims to momentarily halt the violence that affects many regions across Mexico.
Amid this backdrop, María Luisa Vázquez Mendoza, a 33-year-old housewife, arrived at the basilica after a 16-hour walk from the neighboring State of Mexico, which is notorious for its high violence rates. Vázquez Mendoza shared her joy in nearing the basilica, stating, “It fills the heart with joy to see the door so close. The body rests completely. There is no more pain or fatigue.” She has made this pilgrimage on foot for 17 consecutive years to thank the Virgin for another year of life and the well-being of her family. When asked about the proposed truce, she commented that the end of violence should extend beyond one day, advocating for humanity and awareness.
The Mexican Episcopate Conference recently urged armed groups to cease their violence and hostile communications during the Virgin of Guadalupe celebrations. However, in some areas, such as Guerrero, where various criminal factions operate, the festivities were overshadowed by the recent murder of a magistrate who was shot while in his vehicle.
Many pilgrims traveled to the basilica on foot or on their knees, while others arrived by bicycle or car, adorned with crosses, images of the Virgin, flowers, and Mexican flags. Clara Brugada, the Mayor of Mexico City, reported on social media that 11.5 million pilgrims had visited the basilica.
Among the crowd was 27-year-old Ángelo Daniel Tela Alcántara, a street vendor who walked several kilometers from Puebla to honor the Virgin, saying, “I am here to fulfill a promise to the Virgin.”
According to tradition, the Virgin appeared to Juan Diego in 1531, leaving her image on his cloak, which is now displayed in the basilica. Pope John Paul II canonized Juan Diego in 2002. Many devotees express their gratitude to the Virgin on December 12 by making the final stretch to the basilica barefoot, on their knees, or crawling.
Christofer Hernández, a 29-year-old street vendor, was seen crawling across the plaza, stating, “I am here because I promised my mom.” Meanwhile, another devotee, Arturo Rivas, rode his bicycle with about 200 others, journeying over 100 kilometers from Tlaxcala to join the massive religious celebration. Rivas, who has been coming for 36 years, shared how this tradition has been passed down from his parents, emphasizing the emotional significance of their annual pilgrimage.
This celebration not only embodies deep-rooted traditions but also reflects the resilience and hope of the Mexican people in the face of ongoing challenges. The communal spirit of the event provides an opportunity for collective prayer and gratitude, reminding everyone of the importance of unity and faith in these trying times.
Overall, this gathering highlights the unwavering devotion of the Mexican people, who continue to seek solace and strength through their traditions, offering a refreshing reminder of hope and community.