The Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12th. This feast holds a devout place in many Catholics' heart and is especially significant for the communities within the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

On this cold dark evening, Holy Family parish was anything but! Hundreds of parishioners and families packed the church and excitement filled the air. The altar was decorated with a luminous and colorful display of lights and rich roses that magnified a painting of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This stunning display was hand crafted by Holy Family parishioners and Jose Luis Peralta, OFM. Father Jose Luis, the chief celebrant of the Liturgy, began the Mass by venerating our Mother with incense (pictured below).

The Liturgy paid homage to both the indigenous and Latino communities that reflect Holy Family parish. As pictured, traditional Aztec dancers participated in the Mass' opening procession, and Gospel Acclamation. A mariachi band played sacred music which added to the beauty and experience of the Liturgy. Fr. Jose Luis gave a passionate homily which ended in the congregation chanting "VIVA GUADALUPE! VIVA CRISTO RAY!"

What was most profound about celebrating the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe was the active participation and expression of the Holy Family community. Parishioners of all ages took photos of the sacred art and recorded videos of the Aztec dancers and mariachis. One young parishioner even recorded the entire Liturgy, following Fr. Jose Luis' movements with anticipated precision in his video. At the conclusion of Mass, many parishioners offered their own personal roses to the altar display, posed for family photos, and knelt in quiet prayer and reflection.

The Our Lady of Guadalupe celebration did not end with the Liturgy, but continued to the gathering hall where families enjoyed homemade menudo and desserts. In addition to the delicious meal prepared by dedicated parishioners, there was traditional Mexican Folk dancing and music for fellowship and enjoyment (pictured below).

In reflection of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Pope Francis said, "Mary is our Mother, the Mother of our peoples…the mother of our hearts." Like any good mother, Our Lady of Guadalupe not only brought her children of Holy Family together, but also inspired them to generously share their gifts and talents to draw them closer to her Son.