The Catholic Church celebrates the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe Dec. 12.
Similar to other dioceses, the Diocese of Raleigh’s celebrations to honor Mary were underway Dec. 8, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama joined the faithful at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral Dec. 8 to celebrate Mass. And Sunday Dec. 9 saw numerous parishes, particularly those with vibrant Latino communities, immersed in devout celebrations despite the rain.
At the cathedral Dec. 9, members of the Danza Guadalupian group of dancers commenced the festivities. The group is known for its 24 dancers, all of whom are from the same family, who shared their gifts and talents.
Dancer Antonio Vazquez Navarrete said members have carried on this tradition for 18 years. Their sole focus, he added, is to prepare for the Guadalupe Feast out of devotion to the Lady of Guadalupe.
Throughout this time in early December, people celebrate Mass, pray the holy rosary and participate in lively parades to honor Mary. The events reflect the deep roots of Latin American traditions in North Carolina. The iconic, dark-skinned Lady of Guadalupe adorns various items from T-shirts to candles, signifying her profound influence among diverse communities.
In Durham, a vibrant tradition has taken hold as dancers of all ages converge annually in a neighborhood on the city's east side to pay homage to our Lady of Guadalupe. On Tuesday, Dec. 12, the festivities, which include prayer and dancing, commence at 8 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church at 810 W. Chapel Hill St.
Father Fernando Torres, dean of Tar River Deanery, emphasized the expanding devotion to Virgin de Guadalupe, not only among Mexicans or Central Americans but also among Filipinos and other communities, showcasing the universal celebration of this day with love and devotion.
Our Lady of Guadalupe is revered for her miraculous apparition to a humble peasant, Juan Diego, near Mexico City in 1531. Her request to construct a church at the site, marked by the divine imprint of her image on Juan's clothing, remains a powerful symbol of her presence.
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