According to tradition, Juan Diego, a simple indigenous peasant, saw a vision of a young woman on December 9, 1531, while he was on the hill of Tepeyac near Mexico City, Mexico. He told the local bishop, who asked for some proof. Three days later, according to legend, the image of Mary appeared miraculously on his cloak when he was showing it to the bishop. Today the cloak is displayed in the Basilica of Guadalupe nearby, one of the most visited Catholic shrines in the world.
It never ceases to amaze me how involved the Mississippi Latino population is in matters of faith and celebrations. This weekend, there were several Our Lady of Guadalupe observations/celebrations throughout Mississippi. Unfortunately, I was only able to attend two such celebrations at Shelby and Greenwood. In both instances, the churches were packed to the brim - something that is only seen during the holiday seasons at other Churches.
This weekend was also a test of strength for yours truly - which I failed miserably. I prayed that it wouldn't be so ...
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