Honoring The Patroness Of The Americas On Her Feast
Nativity Parish chose to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe beginning on Thanksgiving Day. In most Mexican homes and throughout Latin American, the “Morenita” (brunette), as Our Lady affectionately is called, occupies a very important place in the family. Every year, her feast is celebrated starting 46 days before December 12 by praying the rosary daily in her honor. Each day represents one of the stars found on the image of Our Lady on St. Juan Diego’s tilma.
In each home, the family prays every day with great devotion. After the rosary is said, the family offers snacks, coffee or tea to the participants. These rosaries culminate on Dec. 12, the day of her feast, with a big celebration and the traditional Mañanitas, a morning prayer service.
In November 2012, Nativity parishioners Laisha and Gloria Diaz began talking about the traditions and customs of their country, and recalled those days where they prayed to the Virgin of Guadalupe in the company of their families.
They decided to organize the traditional 46 days of rosaries for Our Lady of Guadalupe – and having her as a pilgrim in the parish community. This year the tradition of 46 rosaries began on the American Thanksgiving holiday. Each day, a different family prepared an altar and received Our Lady of Guadalupe into its home. They welcomed friends and family to join them in praying the Rosary. Joyful singing and a wonderful meal completed each Rosary gathering.
Nativity Pastor Father Henry Kuykendall and Pastoral Associate Sister Sharon Haskins, DC, were among the 46 who welcomed Our Lady of Guadalupe as a pilgrim leading up to her Feast. Invitations already are going out for 2014.
From 9:30 p.m. Dec. 11 until 1 a.m. Dec. 12, Nativity Parish hosted a service full of prayer and song to Our Lady of Guadalupe. Throughout the evening, individuals shared with those in attendance their stories about the favors that they received from Our Lady in their past.
At midnight, Nativity Church resounded with a very emotional Mañanitas to celebrate Our Lady’s Day. Those in attendance then prayed the 46th Rosary. A traditional celebration followed featuring hot chocolate, atoles and Mexican sweet breads.
