RALEIGH - On Dec. 11 Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral became a vibrant hub dedicated to venerating the Virgin of Guadalupe. Hundreds of people, many of whom were dressed in clothing honoring St. Juan Diego, joined the festivities.
The celebration began with a 90-minute choir performance, and the altar was adorned with flowers and framed depictions of the Virgin of Guadalupe.
Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama presided at the Mass. In his homily, he mentioned the significance of this celebration within the Hispanic community. Bishop Luis echoed the importance of constructing a “cathedral” within the hearts of all guadalupanos and guadalupanas, terms for those devoted to Mary and the story of St. Juan Diego.
The reason he made that comparison about building is because, in the story, it’s believed that Mary appeared to Juan Diego in 1531 and asked him to build a church on the site of one of the apparitions.
This story, and its additional details, were shared at the cathedral after Mass during a play. Through this performance, attendees were immersed in the sacred encounters, fostering a deeper emotional connection to the revered Lady of Guadalupe.
A lively mariachi performance served as a musical finale for the event at cathedral.
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