December 9 — Feast of Saint Juan Diego
St. Juan Diego, a humble indigenous man to whom Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared in 1531, is central to Mexican and Mexican-American faith and culture. The Feast of St. Juan Diego celebrates humility, faith, and God's love. Juan Diego's story echoes Isaiah’s prophecy of comfort and hope. Both narratives highlight God's constant care, especially for the marginalized, as Juan Diego receives a message of love and comfort from the Virgin Mary, comparable to Isaiah's message assuring an end to struggles.
Juan Diego personifies "preparing the way for the Lord," bridging cultures and showing God's love transcends barriers. His trust highlights that true greatness lies in trusting God’s faithfulness, elevating the humble and changing lives.
God, our shepherd, nurtures us with a mother's love, as shown by Juan Diego's encounter. God is always present, comforting and guiding us. As we celebrate St. Juan Diego, let us embody his faith, offering comfort and hope to others, and allowing God to work through us to bring light and love into the world.
Leonardo Gomez, Mission Integration and Spiritual Care Manager
CommonSpirit Health
St. Luke’s Health Patients Medical Center
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Blessed Juan Diego, help us welcome with compassion migrants and those at risk of trafficking. Join your prayers with Our Lady for the protection of all suffering immigrants.
Pray
God, who is hope, shine Your light in our darkness so that we may continue to build Your kingdom. Let us be reflections of Your brilliance, always working to make Your goodness known. In Your Holy Name we pray, Amen.