On a chilly and rainy morning, a gathering took place in the lower levels of The Grotto, centered around a glowing statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Accompanied by a Mexican flag, this representation brought together hundreds to commemorate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12.
The celebration commenced at 5:30 a.m. with Aztec dancers performing lively dances and chanting “viva la Virgen de Guadalupe,” warmly welcoming visitors to The Grotto, recognized as The National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother, located in Northeast Portland. This significant day holds great importance for Latino Catholics, who honored Our Lady of Guadalupe through music, dance, and prayer. Traditionally, such feasts in Mexico involve processions and early morning activities that attract many pilgrims.
Sister Lizbeth Nevárez from the Oblates of Santa Marta expressed the shared experience of Mexican immigrants, stating, “Today, on this special day as Mexicans, we unite as we entrust our Mother of Guadalupe for the peace of Mexico and the peace of the entire world.”
The origins of the feast date back to December 12, 1531, when it is believed that Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared to San Juan Diego, an Indigenous man, and requested a church be built in her name. She is venerated as a universal mother figure, celebrating and embracing diverse cultures.
Rev. Leo Hambur, director of The Grotto, emphasized this year’s theme of hope. “With all this war going on, all the violence happening in the world, we need hope,” he said, alluding to Pope Francis’s messages during this Advent season.
While the celebration particularly resonates with Latino communities, it also holds significance for Catholics globally, as Audifas Ruiz noted, “Our Lady of Guadalupe is in many different countries.” Ruiz shared his experience of undertaking a three-day pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of Talpa in Jalisco, Mexico, which he described as challenging yet rewarding.
Following joyful performances outside, the attendees processed into The Chapel of Mary for the Rosary and Mass. The annual event has seen growth over the past five years, largely due to the introduction of a Spanish-language Mass and the tireless efforts of volunteers like Maria and Roberto Ramirez, who lead the Hispanic Ministry at The Grotto.
Ramirez conveyed her thoughts on the importance of venerating Mary, especially on this significant day, and acknowledged the valuable support from the community that has made the event possible. “It’s nice that we have many volunteers who have always supported us and donated to us,” she remarked.
The festivities concluded with a communal meal, where attendees savored traditional foods such as pozole, tamales, sweet bread, and champurrado, fostering connection and shared reverence for Our Lady of Guadalupe.
This celebration not only honors cultural heritage but also serves as a reminder of hope and unity amid challenging times, reflecting the strength of community and faith.
In summary, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe at The Grotto united hundreds through vibrant traditions and shared faith, offering a beacon of hope for the community, particularly amidst global challenges. The ongoing commitment of volunteers and attendees reinforces the importance of cultural connections and shared spiritual journeys.