Office of Hispanic Ministry

Last December 2023, we had for the second time in the cathedral the celebration of the “Noche Guadalupana.” Night, where all Hispanics around our diocese came together to honor Mary in the advocation of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This celebration is part of the traditional celebration of the “Mañanitas.” This event was full of color, joy, food, music, and brotherhood characteristic of the Hispanic/Latino community but, above all, of great Marian fervor. Our Lady of Guadalupe, for many Mexicans, is part of their country’s national identity and culture.

“La Morena del Tepeyac,” as Santa María de Guadalupe, is usually known due to her dark skin color, “Mestiza,” and her appearance to Saint Juan Diego on the “Cerro del Tepeyac.” They marked a crucial moment in the evangelization of Americans. That is why Mary is recognized as “The Star of the New Evangelization” (Evangelii Gaudium § 288)

Today, more than ever, we pray to Mary to intercede for us and guide us in our evangelizing mission. Using the words of Pope Francis, we all pray:

Mary, star of the new evangelization,
help us to bear radiant witness to communion,
service, ardent and generous faith,
justice and love of the poor,
that the joy of the Gospel
may reach to the ends of the earth,
illuminating even the fringes of our world.

Mother of the living Gospel,
wellspring of happiness for God’s little ones,
pray for us.

Amen. Alleluia!