Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebrations

by Communications Office

LAS VEGAS – On December 12, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a title ascribed to the Virgin Mary after she appeared to Saint Juan Diego multiple times in 1531. The feast day of December 12 was first established by Pope Benedict XIV in 1754, and Pope John Paul II declared Our Lady of Guadalupe as “Patroness of the Americas” and “Star of the New Evangelization” in 1999. Catholic communities across the United States, Mexico, and elsewhere maintain a strong devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Parishes within the Diocese of Las Vegas celebrated the Feast with large celebrations. St. John Neumann in North Las Vegas hosted Bishop George Leo Thomas, Ph.D. as the main celebrant during the Monday evening Mass. 

Matachinas Dancers performed an ancient dance to Our Lady of Guadalupe at the beginning of the Mass. During the Mass, a representation of Juan Diego were also present and presented a tilma to Bishop Thomas with an image of Our Lady of Guadalupe on it. Following the Mass, there was a reception that included tamales and champorada, a chocolate warm and thick Mexican beverage (similar to hot chocolate).