The Miraculous Image of Our Lady of Guadalupe: History, Science, Devotion, Myths, and Evidence

The Miraculous Image of Our Lady of Guadalupe: History, Science, Devotion, Myths, and Evidence

 Introduction: A Perpetual Sign of Divine Maternal Love

The image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, miraculously imprinted on the tilma of Saint Juan Diego in December 1531, endures as one of the most profound and scientifically intriguing religious artifacts in history. This sacred icon depicts the Virgin Mary with mestizo features—dark skin, black hair, and indigenous attire elements—standing upon a crescent moon, enveloped in a starry mantle and radiant sun rays, supported by an angel. Enshrined in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City, the world's most visited Catholic shrine, it attracts over 20 million pilgrims annually.

Rooted in apparitions on Tepeyac Hill—a site of pre-Christian significance—the events transformed the evangelization of the Americas. The primary narrative, the Nican Mopohua in classical Nahuatl, details Mary's appearances to Juan Diego, her request for a shrine, and the miraculous sign of winter roses culminating in her image on his agave-fiber tilma.

The Catholic Church approves the devotion fully: Saint Juan Diego's canonization in 2002 by Pope John Paul II affirmed the apparitions' authenticity, declaring Guadalupe the "Patroness of the Americas" and "Star of Evangelization." While the Church emphasizes spiritual fruits—mass conversions, cultural unity, ongoing miracles of healing and hope—it views the tilma's anomalies as signs fostering faith, without dogmatically declaring every scientific claim miraculous.

Scientific studies reveal puzzling aspects: extraordinary preservation, unidentified pigmentation, lack of brushstrokes in the core image, and intricate ocular reflections. Balanced examination distinguishes confirmed anomalies from exaggerated myths (e.g., NASA endorsements). This comprehensive essay explores the historical account, symbolic theology, scientific evidence, Church position, debunked claims, and enduring impact.

 Historical Narrative: The Apparitions in the Nican Mopohua

The Nican Mopohua ("Here It Is Told"), a poetic Nahuatl text attributed to Antonio Valeriano (c. 1556) and published in 1649 by Luis Laso de la Vega, provides the foundational account. This elegant narrative, blending indigenous literary style with Christian theology, chronicles five apparitions from December 9-12, 1531.

Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin, a 57-year-old Chichimec convert from Cuautitlán, hears heavenly music on Tepeyac Hill and encounters a radiant lady speaking Nahuatl. She identifies as "the Perfect Virgin Holy Mary, Mother of the True God" and requests a temple for showing mercy to the afflicted.

Juan Diego informs Bishop Juan de Zumárraga, who demands a sign. Amid his uncle Juan Bernardino's grave illness, Mary appears again, assuring healing and directing him to gather Castilian roses—impossible in frozen December—on the hilltop.

Arranging them in his tilma, Mary sends him to the bishop. Unfolding it, roses fall, revealing her image. Simultaneously, she heals Juan Bernardino, naming herself "Santa María de Guadalupe."

Symbolism inculturated the Gospel: mestizo features dignified natives; crescent moon overcame Aztec deities; pregnancy belt proclaimed life; starry mantle evoked divine queenship.

This catalyzed unprecedented conversions: 8-9 million indigenous in decades, peaceful and profound. Early inquiries, including the 1666 Informaciones Jurídicas—collecting testimonies from elders affirming tradition—solidified historicity. The 1666 proceedings, reviewing artists, physicians, and indigenous accounts, confirmed continuous veneration and Juan Diego's virtuous life.

Critics note documentation gaps, but consensus upholds the Nican Mopohua's authenticity and transformative role.

 The Tilma: Material Composition and Unexplained Preservation

The tilma, a coarse ayate cloak of maguey (agave popotule) fibers, normally decays in 20-60 years due to organic vulnerability. Yet, after 494 years, it remains intact with vibrant colors, defying entropy.

Unprotected for 116 years (1531-1647), exposed to candle smoke, incense, humidity, salt air from nearby Lake Texcoco, and constant pilgrim touch, it survived:

- 1785: Nitric acid spill damaged the frame but left the tilma unmarked.

- 1791: Acid exposure reportedly self-repaired.

- 1921: A bomb exploded nearby, bending a brass crucifix, shattering marble, and breaking windows—but sparing the tilma and its glass.

Material analyses confirm agave fibers, though early debates suggested hemp/linen blends. Replicas deteriorate rapidly.

Dr. Philip S. Callahan's 1979 infrared study (published 1981) found the original image unfaded, while later additions (rays, moon, crown) faded—indicating unique resilience. Dr. Aldofo Orozco (2009) stated no scientific explanation for preservation amid stressors.

This endurance, acknowledged even skeptically as anomalous, stands as the most substantiated miraculous feature.

 Image Formation and Pigmentation: Anomalies Beyond Human Technique

The core image (face, hands, mantle, robe) lacks brushstrokes, underdrawings, sizing, or priming—typical for 16th-century art on rough fabric.

Callahan's infrared photography distinguished human additions (faded, layered) from the original (direct on fibers, unfaded). Pigments unidentified: not animal, vegetable, mineral, or known synthetics. Colors iridescent, shifting with light/distance for realistic depth.

The image aligns seamlessly across the tilma's central seam, avoiding facial distortion—an improbable feat manually.

Callahan concluded the original defies conventional painting: "no way to explain the quality of the pigments used... or the maintenance of color luminosity."

While additions confirm human intervention, the primary figure's formation remains unexplained.

 The Eyes: Ophthalmological Intricacies and Digital Discoveries

The eyes (8mm diameter) fascinate most. Early magnification (1929-1950s) revealed a bearded man; ophthalmologists noted Purkinje-Sanson triple reflections and corneal curvature matching living eyes—unknown in 1531 art.

José Aste Tönsmann's 1970s-1990s digital enhancements (2,500x magnification) identified up to 13 figures: Juan Diego unfolding the tilma, Bishop Zumárraga, interpreter Juana de la Cruz, others—including a family group. Figures vary proportionally by eye angle, undistorted by fabric weave.

Tönsmann theorized a "snapshot" of the room scene. While pareidolia or additions suggested, microscopic human-like precision challenges replication.

 Symbolic Codex: Evangelization Through Indigenous Imagery

The image functions as a visual catechism:

- Mestizo features: Inculturation, affirming native dignity post-conquest.

- Crescent moon: Victory over lunar deities.

- Starry mantle: 46 stars matching 1531 solstice sky (per Rojas Sánchez).

- Sun rays: Surpassing solar worship.

- Pregnancy brooch/belt: Mother bearing God.

- Angel: Heavenly support.

- Flowers/glyphs: Nahuatl encodings of divinity/life.

Aztec readers "read" the Gospel silently, facilitating conversions.

 Additional Phenomena: Stars, Temperature, and Interpretations

Mantle stars align with December 12, 1531, constellations over Mexico (viewed inversely, as from heaven).

Anecdotal claims: constant 36.6-37°C temperature (Callahan, unverified); musical notes from flowers/stars; golden ratio proportions.

These enhance symbolism but lack universal confirmation.

 Survival Incidents: Bomb, Acid, and Environmental Stress

Beyond daily exposure, documented events:

- 1921 bomb: Devastated surroundings; tilma/glass untouched.

- Acid spills (1785, 1791): No damage or self-repair.

These reinforce preservation anomaly.

 Myths and Exaggerations: Fact-Checking Popular Claims

Viral claims often overstated:

- NASA "living" image/pulse/temperature: False; no NASA study. Callahan (NASA consultant) noted anecdotal temperature; no official endorsement.

- Colors floating above fabric: Unsubstantiated.

- Pupil contraction: Not observed.

- Unknown material/pigments impossible: Agave identified; pigments unidentified but natural possible.

- Exact star map/solstice: Interpretive coincidence.

Snopes, Magis Center, Knights of Columbus debunk these. Human additions and limited testing noted.

 Key Scientific Examinations: Timeline and Findings

- 1751-1756: Artists (Cabrera) conclude non-human.

- 1936: Kuhn finds no known pigments.

- 1950s: Ophthalmologists confirm eye reflections.

- 1979: Callahan infrared—no brushstrokes original, unidentified pigments.

- 1980s-1990s: Tönsmann digital eyes.

- 2009: Orozco—no preservation explanation.

Reverence limits invasive tests.

 The Catholic Church's Official Position

The Church approves apparitions via:

- 1666 Informaciones leading to feast approval.

- 1754: Proper Mass/Office.

- 1895: Coronation.

- 1935: Patroness of Mexico.

- 1945-1946: Patroness of Americas.

- 2002: Juan Diego canonization.

Popes (24 total) honor her; John Paul II: "completely beyond scientific explanations" in spiritual sense. Focus: Maternal intercession, evangelization, life protection.

No requirement to believe specific anomalies; fruits prove authenticity.

 Theological Reflection: Mary as Universal Mother

Guadalupe reveals Mary's inculturated motherhood: appearing indigenous amid oppression, she crushes evil (Rev 12), births Christ in hearts.

Her words—"Am I not here, who am your Mother?"—comfort marginalized, echoing Magnificat humility.

In pro-life devotion, her pregnancy symbolizes unborn protection.

 Modern Devotion and Global Impact

Guadalupe symbolizes Mexican identity, justice (Chávez), immigration hope. Pilgrimages, matachines dances, feasts unite cultures.

In crises, she intercedes: healings, conversions continue.

Digital age spreads her message worldwide.

 Cultural and Artistic Legacy

From murals to tattoos, her image permeates art. Syncretism debates resolved: pure inculturation.

Hillary Clinton's 2009 misstep ("Who painted it?") highlighted reverence.

 Comparative Analysis: Other Marian Images

Unlike painted icons, Guadalupe's formation unique. Parallels Lourdes/Fatima in conversions.

 Skeptical Perspectives and Responses

Critics (Poole, Nickell) cite late documentation, possible human artistry. Responses: Indigenous testimonies, anomalies persist.

Science-faith dialogue: anomalies invite humility.

 Ongoing Research and Future Studies

Calls for non-destructive analysis (neutron activation). Reverence prioritizes preservation.

 Personal Testimonies and Miracles Attributed

Countless healings, protections reported. Arrow miracle (early): Fatal wound healed under tilma.

 Conclusion: An Eternal Maternal Embrace

The tilma transcends explanation: historically transformative, scientifically anomalous, devotionally alive. Preservation, formation, eyes intrigue; spiritual impact—unity, hope, Christ-encounter—miraculous.  As Pope Francis affirms, she mothers all, whispering: "Am I not here?"  In division, Guadalupe unites, proving God's preference for humble signs.

 Sources

1. Nican Mopohua (Velázquez translation; New York Public Library manuscript).

2. Callahan, Philip S. "The Tilma under Infrared Radiation" (CARA, 1981).

3. Tönsmann, José Aste. Digital eye studies (El Secreto de Sus Ojos).

4. Orozco, Aldofo. 2009 Marian Congress presentation.

5. Magis Center: Tilma science overview (2025). The Science (Or Lack Thereof) Behind Juan Diego’s Tilma

6. Catholic News Agency: Historical/scientific reports.

7. Snopes: NASA/living claims debunk.

8. Knights of Columbus: Claims fact-check.

9. Informaciones Jurídicas de 1666 (archival).

10. Poole, Stafford. Critical historical view (1995).

11. Vatican/Basilica archives: Approvals, incidents.

"Am I Not Here, Who Am Your Mother?": A Reflection on Our Lady of Guadalupe

Title: "Am I Not Here, Who Am Your Mother?": A Reflection on Our Lady of Guadalupe

The words of Our Lady of Guadalupe, "Am I not here, who am your mother?" resonate deeply with Catholics around the world. These words, spoken to St. Juan Diego in 1531, encapsulate the profound relationship between Mary and her children. As our mother, Mary offers us protection, guidance, and a direct path to her son, Jesus Christ. This reflection explores the theological significance of Mary's maternal role, drawing on the insights of Church Fathers, saints, and theological teachings.

The Apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe

In December 1531, the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Juan Diego, an indigenous Mexican peasant, on the hill of Tepeyac. She identified herself as the Mother of God and requested that a church be built in her honor on that site. When Juan Diego expressed doubt and fear, Mary reassured him with the comforting words, "Am I not here, who am your mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection? Am I not the source of your joy?" These words have since become a source of solace and inspiration for millions of believers.

Mary as Our Mother

The concept of Mary as our mother is deeply rooted in Catholic theology. At the foot of the cross, Jesus entrusted Mary to the beloved disciple, saying, "Woman, behold your son!" and to the disciple, "Behold your mother!" (John 19:26-27). This moment signifies Mary's universal motherhood, extending to all believers. St. John Paul II, in his encyclical "Redemptoris Mater," emphasized that Mary's maternal care is a continuation of her role in the life of the Church, guiding and nurturing the faithful.

Protection and Guidance

Mary's role as our protector is evident in her apparitions and intercessions throughout history. The Church Fathers, such as St. Irenaeus and St. Augustine, recognized Mary's protective mantle over the Church. St. Irenaeus referred to Mary as the "New Eve," whose obedience and faith countered the disobedience of the first Eve. St. Augustine highlighted Mary's role in the Incarnation, emphasizing her cooperation with God's plan of salvation.

St. Bernard of Clairvaux, a medieval saint and Doctor of the Church, eloquently described Mary's protective role: "In dangers, in doubts, in difficulties, think of Mary, call upon Mary. Let not her name depart from your lips; never suffer it to leave your heart." This invocation of Mary as a source of protection and guidance has been a constant theme in Catholic spirituality.

Pointing Us to Jesus

Mary's ultimate mission is to lead us to her son, Jesus Christ. Her words and actions always direct us to the Savior. The Second Vatican Council's document "Lumen Gentium" states, "Mary's function as mother of men in no way obscures or diminishes this unique mediation of Christ, but rather shows its power." Mary, as the first disciple, exemplifies perfect obedience and faith, guiding us to follow her example in our relationship with Jesus.

St. Louis de Montfort, in his classic work "True Devotion to Mary," emphasized that true devotion to Mary always leads to a deeper love for Jesus. He wrote, "The more the Holy Spirit finds Mary, his dear and inseparable spouse, in a soul, the more active and mighty he becomes in producing Jesus Christ in that soul, and that soul in Jesus Christ."

Theological Insights

Theologically, Mary's role as our mother, protector, and guide is intertwined with her unique participation in the mystery of Christ. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that Mary's maternal intercession continues in heaven, where she "continues to bring us the gifts of eternal salvation" (CCC 969). Her maternal care is a reflection of God's love and mercy, providing us with a tangible connection to the divine.

Conclusion

The words of Our Lady of Guadalupe, "Am I not here, who am your mother?" remind us of the profound and intimate relationship we share with Mary. As our mother, she offers us protection, guidance, and a direct path to Jesus. Through the insights of Church Fathers, saints, and theological teachings, we understand that Mary's maternal role is a gift from God, inviting us to trust in her intercession and to follow her example of faith and obedience. In times of doubt and difficulty, let us turn to Mary, confident in her loving care and her unwavering commitment to lead us to her son, Jesus Christ.

Sources:

: [Catholic News Agency](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-lucy-106)

: [Catholic Online](https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=75)

: [Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Lucy)

Christopher Columbus Did Not End Human Sacrifices

The Legacy of Columbus: A Complex History

Christopher Columbus, an Italian explorer who embarked on four voyages across the Atlantic Ocean under the auspices of the Spanish monarchs, is a figure of significant historical complexity. His arrival in the Americas in 1492 marked the beginning of sustained European contact with the American continents. This event had profound and lasting impacts on the native populations, including the disruption of their societies and ways of life.

One of the most controversial aspects of Columbus's legacy is the claim that he ended human sacrifices by natives. It is important to clarify that the indigenous cultures of the Americas were diverse, with their own social norms, religious practices, and cultural rituals. Some groups did practice human sacrifice, most notably the Aztecs, but this was not a universal practice among all native peoples. There is no evidence Columbus interacted with the Aztecs. 

Columbus's interactions with the indigenous populations were complex and often brutal. There are historical accounts of Columbus and his men engaging in acts of violence and subjugation against the native peoples they encountered. In his quest for gold, Columbus enslaved many, and the introduction of European diseases, for which the natives had no immunity, led to catastrophic declines in indigenous populations.  While it is said he attempted to evangelize them, things were not always done humanely. He was not perfect, and Spain's royals provided criminals from prison as his crew.  

The narrative that Columbus ended human sacrifices is a simplification and misrepresentation of history. It overlooks the rich tapestry of indigenous cultures and the atrocities committed during the colonization process. The legacy of Columbus is one that is deeply intertwined with the story of European colonialism and its devastating effects on the native populations of the Americas.

In recent years, there has been a push to re-evaluate the legacy of Columbus. Many communities have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day, choosing to honor the history and resilience of the native populations rather than celebrating the figure of Columbus. This shift reflects a growing recognition of the need to understand history in all its complexity, acknowledging both the achievements and the transgressions of historical figures like Columbus.

Understanding Columbus's true impact on the native populations requires a nuanced examination of historical records and a willingness to confront the darker aspects of the past. It is through this lens that we can begin to appreciate the full scope of the consequences that followed Columbus's arrival in the Americas.

It was not Columbus who ended human sacrifices. In reality, it was Mary, the Blessed Virgin and Mother of God, and our mother who ended it!  She deserves the credit. 

The Impact of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Human Sacrifices in Aztec Culture

The apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe in 1531 is a significant event in the history of the Americas, particularly in its influence on the cultural and religious landscape of the region. According to historical accounts and religious tradition, the appearance of the Virgin Mary to Saint Juan Diego on the hill of Tepeyac played a pivotal role in the transformation of the indigenous peoples' beliefs and practices, especially concerning the ritual of human sacrifice.

The Aztec civilization, which dominated the region before the Spanish conquest, was known for its complex pantheon of gods and a religious practice that included human sacrifices. These sacrifices were believed to appease the gods and ensure the continuity of the world. The Aztecs held a cosmological view that the sun god, Huitzilopochtli, required human blood to continue his journey across the sky, which led to the ritual killing of war captives and volunteers at their temples.

The Spanish conquest of Tenochtitlan in 1521, led by Hernán Cortés, marked the beginning of the end for the Aztec Empire and its practices, including human sacrifices. However, it was the subsequent apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe that had a profound and lasting spiritual impact. Reports suggest that within a decade of the apparition, millions of Indigenous people converted to Christianity, drawn by the message of love and compassion that contrasted sharply with the fear and violence of their previous beliefs.

Our Lady of Guadalupe's message of peace and her image, which incorporated symbols understood by the native people, facilitated a cultural synthesis that allowed for the integration of indigenous and Christian beliefs. This phenomenon not only led to the decline of human sacrifices but also contributed to the formation of a new identity for the people of Mexico, blending their ancient traditions with the Christian faith.

The story of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the end of human sacrifices is a testament to the power of spiritual transformation and the potential for cultural change. It highlights the role of religious figures in shaping societal norms and behaviors, and the capacity for humanity to evolve towards more compassionate practices.

In conclusion, the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe is remembered not only as a religious miracle but also as a catalyst for significant social and cultural shifts, including the cessation of human sacrifices in Aztec culture. It remains a symbol of hope and unity for millions, demonstrating the enduring influence of faith on human history.

References:

: "COLUMBUS AND NATIVE MUTILATION" - A document discussing Columbus's policies and the practices of native tribes.

: "Columbus’s real legacy: The brutal disparities suffered by Native Americans" - An article detailing the impact of Columbus's actions on indigenous populations.

Trump Posts 'Happy Birthday Mary' Using Guadalupe Image

In a surprising move, former president and current presidential candidate Donald J. Trump posted on social media a photo of Our Lady of Guadalupe with the message "Happy Birthday Mary."  This prompted X (formerly Twitter) to trend the keywords Our Lady of Guadalupe for the entire day.  On September 8th, the Catholic Church celebrates the Nativity of Mary or the Birth of Mary. 

The date is calculated from December 8, when the Church celebrates the Immaculate Conception. The months between both days total 9 months, the gestation period of human offspring before birth. The post has excited some Catholics, who believe that the former president is eyeing a possible conversion to Catholicism. His wife, Melania, is a Catholic. 

However, the former president is a non-practicing Presbyterian. He is popular with Evangelica Protestants as well. 

However, others see this as a political move to capture the Catholic vote. A recent EWTN poll found that most Catholics will be voting for Vice President Kamala Harris, especially Hispanic Catholics. Moreover, the former President's shift on abortion and his endorsement of IVF have angered orthodox Catholics who adhere to the Church's teaching that abortion can never be justified and that IVF is unethical.  They favored him over President Biden but now many of them are lost regarding who to vote for. Trump is now nearly identical to Harris with abortion and other issues.  

It is a difficult choice now.  Trump prided himself on being the "most pro-life president" but he is anything but that now due to his shift in policy.   He is not pro-life.  It seems he knows he made a huge mistake alienating Catholics and is now trying to woo them by using Our Lady. Former President Trump has been criticized in the past for using the Bible as a prop and for not taking Christian views and values seriously. 

It is highly unlikely that Trump is seeking to convert to Catholicism. Even if he did, he would most likely not submit to all of the teachings of the faith, especially on marriage, contraception, abortion, and other ethical issues.  If the posts he posted of Our Lady of Guadalupe on her birth are a political stunt, this is offensive and disrespectful to Catholics. Our Lady is NOT a political prop.

Happy Birthday Mary! pic.twitter.com/d1nwHWTk2b

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 9, 2024

Source:

Democrats driving religious vote away from party as Trump courts Catholics: ‘Anti-Christian’ party | Fox News

Harris leads Trump among Catholic voters, per EWTN News/RealClear poll | Catholic News Agency

Harris favored over Trump among Hispanic Catholic voters, EWTN News/RealClear Opinion Research poll finds | Catholic News Agency

Trump Celebrates The Birthday of Jesus Christ’s Mother With Image of ‘Our Lady of Guadalupe’ (dailywire.com)

 

The Assumption of Mary

Today August 15 we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary to heaven.  We remember how our Lady was taken to heaven by our Lord.

Her body did not face decay.  Mary did not resurrect, nor did she rise to heaven on her own power.  God took her body and soul to eternity in heaven.  She sits at the right hand of Jesus interceding for all of us.

This is important to clarify because our separated brethren are sometimes under the impression that Catholics view Mary as some goddess.  She is not a goddess.  She is the "handmaid of the Lord," a mere creature of God just like we are.  She was preserved by God from sin and the death all humans have experienced since Adam and Eve.  

This feast day is one of the oldest in Christianity.  It originates from about the 5/6th century and was celebrated in the East as "The Dormition" or the sleep of Mary.  The earliest text we have of this comes from the 4th century in the "Falling asleep of the Holy Mother of God" and account by St. John.  (http://www.newadvent.org/fathers/0832.htm)

Many ask if Mary died just like any other human.  Some say she just fell asleep, while others say she did die.  It is most likely that the former is more probable because Scripture says in Romans 6:23 that the "wages of sin is death."  Since Mary was conceived without sin, she could not owe these wages that would result in death.  Moreover, Acts 13:35 and Psalms 16:10 state that God won't allow His holy ones to rot in the grave.  In light of this, we can know that Mary did not decay.  She being sinless was preserved from death and decay.

The idea of someone being taken to heaven body and soul by God is not new.  Enoch in Genesis 5:22-29 was taken by God.  We also read about Elijah experiencing the same in 2 Kings 2:11.

The Assumption of Mary became a defined dogma on November 1, 1950, when Pope Pius XII declared it in his encyclical Munificentissimus Deus.  This is a great day for all of us.  It is a reminder of what God has planned for those who hang in there in the Faith.

This is a holy day of obligation where Catholics must go to Mass and treat the day as if it were a Sunday.  In some dioceses, the day is not obligatory if it falls on a Monday or Saturday.  It is important to check with your parish or diocese beforehand.  If this is the case, one can still participate in the Mass or do some other form of penance or good work.  More prayer and more faith work aren't bad at all.  

Mary is one of us.  She is human.  She made it!   She is an inspiration to us all.  May Our Blessed Lady pray for us and help us follow her Son more closely.

Father in heaven,

all creation rightly gives you praise,

for all life and all holiness come from you.

In the plan of your wisdom

she who bore the Christ in her womb

was raised body and soul in glory to be with him in heaven.

May we follow her example in reflecting your holiness

and join in her hymn of endless love and praise.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen. (http://www.catholic.org/prayers/prayer.php?p=1160)   

Reflection on today's readings:

Today's readings pretty much reflect on today's solemnity.  It is rare for this solemnity to fall on a Sunday. The last time this happened was in 2010. The first reading from Revelation is apocalyptic literature or a literary genre that uses images and symbols. We should not take them literally. The great sign of a woman dressed with the sun, crowned with stars, and standing over the moon is a representation of the Virgin Mary and the Catholic Church.  The red dragon is a representation of Lucifer and the Pagan Roman Empire.  The only pregnant woman that Christians focused on was Mary, so we know this woman represents her.  The Church is also represented as a female or mother, so we know this female image represents the Catholic Church too.  Since the beginning, in the book of Genesis, we know of the tension between Mary and the serpent. Here we see it in this reading. Mary vs the dragon or reptilian creature. As stated, the woman is also the Church at the time of emperors Diocletian and Nero who were persecuting the Catholic Church.  Mary has appeared dressed in this form. 

Sacerdotus: Our Lady of Guadalupe

Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico and Our Lady of the Universe in the Bronx are great examples.  Mary wears the sun, has a crown of stars, and stands on the moon. These represent that she is above creation and pagan deities often represented by natural things in the universe. However, one is above her and that is God. Mary is not a god or goddess. We must make this clear.  The dragon with seven heads represents pagan Rome. Rome has seven famous hills.  The 10 horns represent the provinces of the Roman government. Horns are a sign of power. Think of a bull with its powerful horns. The seven diadems are the famous diadems we see Romans depicted with behind their ears. So basically, here we see the woman and the dragon going after her child and then the rest of her children.

www.ourladyoftheuniverse.com

This is Mary with Jesus and also the Church with all of us in the first century and now. The chapter of course reflects more on the situation in the first century when the emperors were persecuting the Christians.  Clearly, the force behind Rome was the devil. We know this because of the imagery of the tail carrying off a third of the stars. This is Lucifer as he took with him a third of the angels. They were cast to the earth.  These angels are the demons who were once angels like Lucifer but were too arrogant to serve God. They are on earth prowling about looking for souls. These are the demons who possess people and cause havoc around the world. So the first reading reminds us of what our ancestors faced and also reminds us that Mary is an important figure. 

She is the queen as the Psalm tells us: "The queen stands at your right hand arrayed in gold."  Mary is indeed the queen. In Jewish tradition, the King of Israel also had his mother as queen. Jesus being a descendent of King David followed the same tradition. Mary is the queen. She sits at His right hand interceding for us.  She takes her place at Christ's right hand.  Only Jesus sits at the right hand of God the Father. Jesus is the one mediator between God and man, but Mary is the most important mediator between Christ and man. 

The second reading reminds us of the Assumption. When someone dies we say "Rest in peace." This is because we believe the dead are asleep.  Even though their bodies rot away, they are resting awaiting the coming of Christ when they will come back to life and be judged.  Everyone has to die.  Even Jesus died.  If Jesus died, then Mary had to die too. Scripture tells us that the wages of sin is death; so why did Jesus and Mary die if both were sinless?  Well, they were human. Jesus was true God and true man so He had to experience everything a human does except sin.  Mary was totally human, but sinless, so she experienced everything humans experience except sin. However, Mary is not God.  She cannot resurrect herself. She cannot prevent death.  Therefore, it is believed based on  tradition that Mary simply went to sleep. She literally rested in peace and did not die in the sense we all die from natural causes. It is believed that she was in her 70s when this happened. Christ then took her body and soul to heaven because Mary cannot resurrect herself or ascend to heaven of her own volition. She is a creature of God subject to Him. Scripture tells us that the holy will not know decay, so it makes sense for Jesus to take Mary's body. She was holy and sinless from conception to death, so she could not rot or decay. She is the image of what we all will experience if we become saints. Christ is above death and preserved his own mother by taking her body and soul to heaven to be the queen of the Universe and heaven. 

The Gospel reminds us how important Mary is that the baby in Elizabeth's womb lept for joy.  Elizabeth filled with the Holy Spirit utters the words of the Hail Mary acknowledging Mary to be blessed in death.  Mary responds with her Magnificat reminding us all that all generations will call her blessed.  Protestants who dislike Mary truly do not value Scripture if they ignore this Gospel. If the Holy Spirit brought Elizabeth and Mary to proclaim these words, then why can we not proclaim them?  Do we know better than the Holy Spirit?  Mary is a very important figure in Christianity. This is why we offer her hyperdulia or a special high veneration. She is our model of what Christ wants us to be.  We do not worship her, but honor her because Christ honored her as His mom, and the entire Trinity honored her as their prized creation. She is the one that is "full of grace" and the "favored one of God," as the archangel Gabriel told us in the Gospel of Luke.  Let us foster devotion to Our Lady. She is very important. She points us to Christ.  Her last recorded words were, "Do whatever He (Christ) tells you."  What awesome words!  

Readings:  Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary | USCCB

3rd Sunday of Advent: Christ Is Our Joy

 

What is Advent?
We are now in the holy season of Advent where we prepare for both the coming of Christ at Christmas and the second coming at the end of time.  It is a spiritual period in which to meditate on these two mysteries and prepare for them.  We use the wreath and 4 candles to mark down the 4 weeks before Christmas.  

Three of the candles are purple and one is pink.  The purple symbolizes preparation through penance and prayer.  Purple is also used during Lent.  Another way to see it is purple is a physical sign of healing. When we get hurt, the injury becomes purple.  During the time of healing, it remains purple until it clears up.  Sin hurts us and we need time to heal from it by using the Sacraments of Penance and Eucharist, Prayer, Fasting, Indulgences, and a genuine Spiritual life.  

The pink is for the third Sunday or Gaudete Sunday which means "Sunday of Joy."   We are joyous because we are getting closer to Christ's birth.  As each week goes, we light the candle that corresponds to that week.  

Today's readings: Daily Bible Reading - December 13, 2020 | USCCB

2020 has been a rough year. Today we focus on the joy of Jesus Christ.  With Covid 19 coronavirus, it may be hard to sense this joy, but it is there.  Christmas is almost here!  We are joyous as we light the pink candle on this Gaudete Sunday or Sunday of Joy!  Christ is almost here!  But who is Christ? Today's readings tell us.  In the first reading from Isaiah, we read about the Spirit of God being part of someone.  This someone is anointed and will bring glad tidings to those in poverty.  This someone will be there for those who are heartbroken; will free those in captivity and minister to all.  So who is this, someone?  Well this "someone" is none other than Jesus Himself. As a matter of fact, Jesus took this very text and read it at the synagogue.  It got Him into trouble as the religious teachers of His day became upset when He said that the words of Isaiah were fulfilled in Him (Luke 4:17-21).  They thought He was blaspheming and were about to beat Him up, so to speak. This is understandable.  How many of us would raise an eyebrow if someone reads Scripture and claims it was referring to him or her? We would think of this person as insane. Today there are many crazy ideas running around about resets, the antichrist, the pandemic as a conspiracy, and so on. It is unfortunate that many have caught onto these ideas and are actually taking them seriously.  For some reason, humans love conspiracies. It activates the imagination to a point that the brain starts linking things and making conclusions where there is no rational reason to do so.  We must resist these things and focus on Christ who is our joy.  Yesterday, we celebrated His mother under the title of Our Lady of Guadalupe and we learned from Pope Francis about the year of St. Joseph and the indulgences being given for this occasion and the occasion of Our Lady of Guadalupe.  What a wonderful time to be Catholic and show our joy!  

The responsorial Psalm responds to the first reading with joy. We rejoice in God! Today's Psalm is unique because it is not from the book of Psalms, but from Our Lady's Magnificat found in Luke. The word "Psalm" comes from Hebrew "Tehillim" which means "praises or songs of praise."  Mary's "Magnificat" is her song of praise to God while showing her joy for having been chosen to bear Christ the Son of God. She echoes Isaiah's words of God who comes to "fill the hungry with good things" and the one who is the help of Israel.  This "Psalm of Mary" is prayed/sung at Vespers (Evening prayer) every day by clergy, religious and those lay faithful who pray the Liturgy of the Hours.  It is a powerful expression of faith.

In the second reading from Thessalonians, we read about the need to rejoice and pray at all times. We must give thanks in ALL circumstances.  This means even in circumstances that are "bad." Many times we only pray and get joyous when things go well for us.  When they get rotten, we get upset at God. Sometimes we even try to barter with God: "Lord, if you do this or make this better, I will go to daily Mass or pray more."  This is not how a prayer life should be like. We must be with God and trust in God always, even when things go bad (Job 13:15). Life will not always be "puppies and kittens," so to speak. Things can get "hairy" really fast during the day. We can wake up cheerful and walk with a "skip" during the day and at night come home gnashing our teeth after facing long schedules, uncontrollable events, and all kinds of personalities that give our facial muscles a good work out as we make different faces to each emotion we feel.  This year is a reminder of how bad things can get. We lost so many people due to Covid 19 coronavirus that it is just hard to process. The virus does not seem to go away.  Governments have been failing us by not providing aid that is constant and immediate. Even our Church has failed us by denying the Mass and Sacraments despite lack of evidence that they spread contagion. It has been rough.  Despite this, God will never allow us to deal with something we cannot handle (1 Corinthians 10:13).  So in light of this, we must thank God even for the bad things that happen in life (James 1:2-3).  I know it sounds crazy, but it makes sense and demonstrates that God gives us power and freedom over all scenarios. They do not control us. Furthermore, the second reading continues to tell us not to "quench the Spirit" or set aside the fire in us from the Holy Spirit.  Our Christianity must be our lives, not something we do on Sundays. We must not reject things that will lead us to God and must always test everything. Many times, atheists claim that Christians believe things by blind"faith" and never question. This is not true. We are called to question everything. The reading then ends with a blessing to keep us in God's peace, holy, and ready for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Finally, in the Gospel, we read more about Jesus' cousin John the Baptist.  The reading tells us that John came to prepare the way for Christ.  He cries out in the desert preparing the way for Jesus. During this preparation, he offered a symbolic form of Baptism using water ( Ezekiel 36:24-27). Today we are also in preparation for the coming of Christ, not only on Christmas but also at the end of time.  However, we are joyous. We cry out "Maranatha" and hope for the return of the Savior of the world. The return of Christ is a joyous occasion even though it entails judgment. If we follow what needs to be done, then there is no need to panic or be fearful of this day. Christianity is about joy!  Nothing gets us down not even the pressures of this world. Not even this alleged pandemic which has taken many lives and has caused many economic and academic hardships.  We are an "alleluia" people who proclaim Christ as the light and hope of this broken world. Gaudete Sunday reminds us of this joy. We are to take this joy and share it with the world. 

Like St. John the Baptist, we must prepare the way of the Lord once again though we have not seen Him ourselves as John did (1 Peter 1:8-9). People will think of us as crazy, but that is okay.  This world will never like Catholics or anyone who claims to believe in Christ.  We are seeing this more and more in the world.  Many governments are restricting religious freedom.  Others, like Australia, want to seal of confession to be opened allowing for priests to "snitch" on people who confessed crimes to them.  It will only get worse I am afraid to say.  But fear not!  Christ is with us!  We will suffer, but it is all for the good.  We must remain holy and joyful.  They will see the joy in us and it will become contagious.  God is all about joy, happiness, mercy, and peace (Romans 14:17).  This is why Pope Francis has stressed the fact that we must not have "funeral faces." We must smile and be happy. We must show visibly our joy in Christ Jesus. Whenever we see someone come out from a show or movie, we can get a sense of how good that show or movie was based on the face of those exiting. The same with our faith. Outsiders will get an idea of how our Christian faith is based on how we present it outwardly. If we come out of Mass with gloomy faces or pray as if we were doing it out of obligation, then outsiders will see us as miserable sheep. This will not attract them. Our faith must be joyous and welcoming so as to prepare the world for Christ.  We are an Advent people who prepare; we are a Lenten people who suffer, we are an Ordinary people who live by extraordinary faith, but we are an Easter people who live in the joy of Jesus.




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Our Lady of Guadalupe

Today is December 12 and we celebrate the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas and of Unborn Children.

The Blessed Mother Mary in 1531 appeared to an indigenous man named Juan Diego.  While coming home from Mass, as he walked he heard the voice of a young girl calling him "Juanito."  He approached Tepeyac hill and saw this young girl wearing a pink robe with a green mantle.  She was beautiful and radiant as the sun.

She asked Juan Diego to go to the Franciscan Bishop Juan Zumarraga and request that a Church be built on the spot.  Diego did as told but the Bishop's workers did not allow him to see the Bishop at first.  When he was granted permission to speak to the Bishop, the Bishop did not believe him.  Juan Diego again went to the young lady and told her but she insisted once again that a Church be built.

The Bishop had been praying to the Blessed Mother for help because the Spaniards conquered the Aztecs and were treating them harshly.  This treatment made it hard for the Church to covert the natives from Paganism to Catholicism.  Juan Diego visited the Bishop again and told him, but the Bishop requested a sign or proof.

Juan Diego learned that his uncle was ill and was dying.


He went to see him to care for him.   The next day he was going to see his uncle and avoided going to see this young lady but she appeared before him telling him not to worry that his uncle will be healed and reassured him by saying, "am I not here who am your Mother?"  So Juan Diego met her at the usual spot and she told Juan Diego to pick roses from a nearby bush.

It was not the season for roses to bloom so it was strange to find beautiful roses present where she directed him to.  He took the roses in his Tilma or cloak that the Aztecs wore and brought them to her.  She touched them, arranged them and told Juan Diego to go to the Bishop and show him.

He innocently obeyed and went to see the Bishop.  Once there, he told the Bishop that he has the sign.  The Bishop and others looked on.  He told the Bishop what happened and then let go of the roses.  As the roses fell, the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared.  The Bishop and all present fell to their knees.

It was true!  The Blessed Virgin Mary did appear and the Bishop promised to build a Church which is there today.  This took place 480 years ago.  News of this spread and millions of Pagan Aztecs were converted.  Mexico now is one of the largest Catholic nations.

This is awesome because Jesus used His Mother and a simple uneducated indigenous man to covert his own people.  Jesus did not need an intelligent theologian or skilled apologists.

The tilma has defied skeptics and atheists throughout the centuries.  Studies have shown that there was no paint used.  No coloring from minerals, animal or plants was found.  There are also no sketches or brush strokes.  This is according to Nobel Chemistry prize Chemist, Richard Kuhn.  Physicists and other textile experts cannot explain why this image did not fade, wear down or decompose despite being 400 years old and exposed to humidity, dust, heat and other elements.

Studies were also done on the eyes and they were discovered to contain the images of Bishop Zumarraga, other Franciscans and Aztecs.  It is though the image were an actual photograph of a real person with the reflection of what her eyes looked upon as the image was taken.

A few years ago, Hilary Clinton visited the Shrine and placed flowers.  She then asked, "Who painted this image?"  The Priest replied, "God."

This image is powerful then and even today.  The Aztecs who saw this image realized that this young girl wears the constellations which they worshiped!  She wears the Sun and stands on the moon, other natural objects they worshiped.  So she is basically more powerful than their 'gods.'  She literally OWNS THEM!

But, she has her head in a bow position showing there is someone more powerful than her and that is God, the real God.  The name "Guadalupe" comes from the Aztec word that means "who crushes the serpent."  The Aztec's principle god was "Quetzalcoatl" who was depicted as a serpent.  From Genesis we read that Satan is depicted as a serpent and the Woman and her offspring will crush his head.  Interesting right?

It is also interesting to note that the black bow she is wearing is what was used by the natives to show a woman was with child.  So in this image, she is pregnant with Jesus Christ!  This is why she is invoked under this title when praying for an end to abortion.

May Our Lady of Guadalupe pray for the Americas, the Mexican people and especially for the Unborn.  May she help end abortion just like she helped end the Pagan religion of the Aztecs which sacrificed babies to false gods.


May she bring many to conversion here and abroad in a world where empirical evidence is requested for faith to be accepted.  She gave proof then, may She continue to give proof now.  

Oh Mary, Mother of Jesus and Mother of Life,
We honor you as Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Thank you for pointing us to Jesus your Son,
The only Savior and hope of the world.

Renew our hope in him,
That we all may have the courage to say Yes to life,
And to defend those children in danger of abortion.

Give us your compassion
To reach out to those tempted to abort,
And to those suffering from a past abortion.

Lead us to the day when abortion
Will be a sad, past chapter in our history.

Keep us close to Jesus, the Life of the World,
Who is Lord forever and ever. Amen.

(http://www.priestsforlife.org/novenas/our-lady-of-guadalupe-novena.htm)