The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe is celebrated with great reverence at the Vatican. As is customary, Pope Francis will preside over the Eucharistic celebration in St. Peter's Basilica on December 12.
The Pope will reflect on the message the Virgin of Guadalupe brought to St. Juan Diego in 1531.
POPE FRANCIS
She came to console, to attend to the needs of the little ones, without excluding anyone, to embrace them as a caring mother with her presence, her love and her consolation. She is our Mother of mixed race people.
In previous years, music from all corners of Latin America filled the Vatican to mark this feast day. For example, one year there was a Creole Mass composed by Ariel Ramirez from Argentina.
On another occasion, a little piece of Mexico came to the Vatican. In 2021, the feast fell on a Sunday and, after the Angelus, this group of mariachis dedicated their music to Mary.
This year, the music will feature the choir of the Pontifical Pio Latin American College. Many of the choir members are excited about participating in this feast in such a special way.
RUPERTO LUNA
Mexico, Choir Member
First of all, I am filled with great emotion and confidence that I am honoring my Mother.
MARIO GILBERTO MORALES
Guatemala, Choir director
It is also a way to feel a little bit closer to our towns who celebrate this feast with great devotion.
LUIS AMAURYS DÍAZ PARRA
Dominican Republic, Choir Member
We certainly share the same language. We feel we are in Latin America inside St. Peter's Basilica.
They will sing songs such as "La Guadalupana" and "America awakens." The choir members say that these songs speak of the light that Mary brings to people in darkness. And the group is looking forward to entering St. Peter's Basilica honoring Mary in such a special way.
PA
TR: KG
