Greetings and Blessings,
On this day, Catholics everywhere celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. We honor the Blessed Virgin Mary who appeared to Saint Juan Diego in 1531. Mary's image and words transformed the hearts of a nation and drew countless number of souls to her Son, Jesus Christ.
Our Lady of Guadalupe reminds us of Mary's role as Mother of God. She carried Jesus in her womb -- we now carry Jesus in our heart. We bear His presence to the world, spreading the light of His love to all we encounter.
As we journey through this Advent season, let us ask Our Lady every day to help us draw closer to her Son. Mary is always pointing us to Jesus. We can use her guidance now in a world that wants to point us in directions far from Him. Put your trust in Our Lady, and watch her transform your heart as she has done with so many over the course of time.
This is a joyful day! Our Lady has promised us she will always be there for us. “Am I not here, I who am your Mother?” Let us ask for her intercession as we continue to prepare for the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ!
Please take a minute to watch the short video message I have for you below. May God bless you and may Our Lady of Guadalupe always watch over us!
Yours in Christ,
Bishop James D. Conley