December 12, 2008

Our Lady of Guadalupe

CNS / Saints for Today

This image of Mary commemorates her appearances to a native convert, St. Juan Diego, on Tepeyac Hill near Mexico City in 1531. Our Lady wanted a church built there and sent Juan Diego with that message to the bishop, who insisted on a sign. She told the peasant to gather flowers blooming then, in December, and return to the bishop. When the flowers tumbled from his cloak, those present saw the image that is still preserved in the most famous shrine in the Western Hemisphere..

Father Deck, director of Cultural Diversity, talks about
the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Read

Read about sacred sites in Mexico that are home to many works of art inspired by Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Daily Readings from the New American Bible (NAB)

Pray

The Memorarae:
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to you do I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.

Reflect

View the trailer from Picturing Mary and reflect on the power of the Blessed Mother’s image as portrayed in art throughout the world.

View the Daily Reflections on today's readings brought to you by the Catholic Communication Campaign

Act

Our Lady of Guadalupe is the patron of all the Americas, through whom the faith was first brought to this land. She is, likewise, the patron of the Gospel of Life, through whom the weak, the poor, the forgotten, and the dispossessed may know love and the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Take time today to contact your elected officials and encourage them to support laws that respect the life and dignity of all people.