OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE

In this season of Advent, when we wait in joyful hope, we celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. She shines here as she does throughout history bringing mercy and hope to all.

The feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe is important to Indigenous communities. Many First Nations were matrilineal. Thus, they align spiritually with a maternal devotion that speaks of mercy. The image of Mary is prominent in Latin American countries. She represents solidarity with the people. It is right that this feast day and the National Day of Prayer in Solidarity with Indigenous Peoples is the same date. Our Lady’s image is revered by artists and believers alike. The image of Our Lady of Guadalupe holds much symbolism and meaning for the Aztec people and for many First Nations people across the continent. It is a powerful cultural icon.

When Our Lady appeared to Juan Diego in 1531, he heard her speak to him in his native language, Nahuatl. On the Hill of Tepeyac, he was given a mission to build a house of prayer. His quest would one day become a huge attraction for pilgrims from all over the world. The first apparition took place on December 9, the feast of the Immaculate Conception. There were five apparitions in all, taking place between December 9 and December 12. At the time, Juan Diego was caring for a sick uncle. When he brought his vision of Mary to the local bishop, his request to build a chapel was turned down. He needed a miracle in order to be believed. When he sought Mary’s support, she answered. He presented his tilma (cloak) to the bishop and Castilan roses fell to the floor. The Virgin Mary’s image was revealed on his cloak and his uncle was cured.

At this time, Mexico was invaded by Cortes and his army. Similar to our history here in Canada, the Church was part of the colonization of native peoples. The appearance of the Virgin Mary revealed a compassion for the people and her presence empowers the populations to stand in resistance to oppression. Her presence and devotion brought millions of people to the Catholic faith. 

On this feast day, I will take time to reflect on the rich symbolism of the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. These symbols can lead to a deeper reflection of my growth in faith and my appreciation for the history that brought oppression to Indigenous peoples. The stars unite our earthly reality with the heavens and the Creator of the cosmos, the colours speak to a connection to earth, to peace and a child to come. And a rose is a beautiful symbol of life in the winter time. 

Mary gave this message to Juan Diego: “Am I not here, I who am your mother?” Is she not always a prayer away, in solidarity with us all? May we all find new inspiration in this rich feast which brings us to a deeper appreciation for our walk together in faith.

Jan Bentham is a retired Religion Coordinator with the Ottawa Catholic School Board. She is a musician, serving in music ministry at St. Ignatius Parish in Ottawa. She currently works at St. Paul’s University with the Catholic Women’s Leadership Program.