St. Peter's Square was filled with excitement immediately before the Mass in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Members of the choir of the Pio Latin American and Mexican College, who performed at the celebration, shared their joy in participating in this feast.
JOSÉ MARIO MEJÍA
El Salvador, Choir Member
We are here with our own personalities, skills and songs, so it feels like we are bringing a little piece of our culture, of our experience to the Vatican.
For some of them, this is their first time celebration the Marian feast day outside of their home countries.
ANDRES CRUZ
Mexico, Choir member
It is truly an immense joy to be here because it is the first time that I am away from home, so I believe that the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe, is bringing us together.
The choir members point out that this feast day is synonymous with hope—a hope that Our Lady will help Latin America overcome any challenges it faces.
KEVIN GARCÍA
Guatemala, Choir member
Mexico is a passing point for many migrants and they arrive afraid. But when they pass through Mexico, they find this aspect of the Virgin of Guadalupe helpful to such an extent that there is always an image of the Virgin in their homes. It is very interesting because they feel the protection of Our Mother.
The Pio Latin American and Mexican choir was chosen to perform the processional songs of the Mass, while the Sistine Chapel choir was in charge of the ceremonial songs.
PA
TR: KG
