By Isabella Chavez

SAN JOSE, CALIF.— Every Dec. 12 Mexicans and members of the Catholic religion all across the globe commemorate the day of Virgen de Guadalupe. It’s a significant day in Mexican culture and a feast day in the Virgen’s honor. 

Photo Caption: Statue of the Virgen at the church Santuario Diosesano De La Virgen Del Sagrario in Tamazula De Gordiano, Mexico. 

Photo Credit: Isabella Chavez 

The Day of the Virgen de Guadalupe has a deep significance in Mexican culture and Catholic faith. This special day remembers the day of the appearance of the Virgen de Guadalupe to Juan Diego in 1531 who was a young indigenous Mexican. It is believed that she told Diego to create a shrine in her honor and to remember his faith in her.

The Virgen left evidence behind to prove divine presence, which was her image imprinted on his tilma, also known as a cloak that has never disappeared.This image can still be visited at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. 

From this event it started the fusion of indigenous and European religious beliefs. It also started an increase in the conversion of many indigenous people into Christianity. 

On this day, the streets of Mexico flourish with public celebrations such as parades and colorful celebrations in honor of the Virgen de Guadalupe. The night before this holiday a mass is held where they have a mariachi group come and sing to the Virgen. Many Mexicans participate in a pilgrimage to the Basilica by traveling for days or even weeks to reach their destination. 

People also bring images of the Virgen to their local churches for blessings. There are parades where a statue of the Virgen is carried to the nearest church while a huge crowd walks with her. Children are dressed up and sent to church for blessings. Songs such as “ La Guadalupana” are heard and sung throughout the street. ” We praise her, thank her for everything she does for us.” Said by a catholic Silver Creek student Isela Barrientos.

Since it’s not considered a national holiday some offices will still have a feast with their employees in her honor and celebration of the Virgen. 

This celebration is a powerful symbol of Mexican representation, faith, and cultural unity. Mexicans come together on this day to express their grace, appreciation, and love for the Virgen de Guadalupe, as well to promise their faith and devotion to La Virgencita.