In 1999, Saint Pope John Paul II declared Our Lady of Guadalupe Patroness of all the Americas. Blessed Mary appreared to Saint Juan Diego in 1531 in Tepeyac, present day Mexico City.
While the miraculous image our Spiritual Mother left as a sign, that is venerated there to this day in a basilica, is a moving inspiration to our faith, what Our Lady spoke to this humble convert is also very consoling:
“Know and understand well, you the most humble of my Son, that I am the ever virgin Holy Mary, Mother of the True God for whom we live, of the Creator of all things, Lord of heaven and the earth. I wish that a temple be erected here quickly, so I may therein exhibit and give all my love, compassion, help, and protection, because I am your merciful mother, to you, and to all the inhabitants on this land and all the rest who love me, invoke and confide in me; listen there to their lamentations, and remedy all their miseries, afflictions and sorrows.
“Hear me and understand well, my son the least, that nothing should frighten or grieve you. Let not your heart be disturbed. Do not fear that sickness, nor any other sickness or anguish. Am I not here, who is your Mother? Are you not under my protection? Am I not your health? Are you not happily within my fold? What else do you wish? Do not grieve nor be disturbed by anything."
Our Lady of Guadalupe - Pray for us!
