Biography
St. Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin (1474–1548) was an Indigenous Mexican convert and visionary associated with the apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Born in Cuautlitlán (now part of Mexico City) with the name Cuauhtlatoatzin (“the talking eagle”), he belonged to the Chichimeca people. At about fifty, he was baptized by the Franciscan missionary Fr. Peter da Gand. On December 9, 1531, while on his way to Mass, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to him on Tepeyac Hill, asking that a shrine be built in her honor. When the local bishop asked for proof, the Virgin directed Juan Diego to gather roses blooming miraculously in winter. He carried them in his cloak (tilma), and when he opened it before the bishop on December 12, the flowers fell, revealing the miraculous image of Our Lady of Guadalupe imprinted on the fabric. Juan Diego spent the remainder of his life as a hermit near the chapel that housed the image, devoting himself to prayer, service, and caring for pilgrims. He died in 1548 and was buried in the first chapel of the Virgin. The miraculous image, which is preserved in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, shows a woman with native features and dress. She is supported by an angel whose wings are reminiscent of one of the major gods of the traditional religion of that area. The moon is beneath her feet and her blue mantle is covered with gold stars. The black girdle about her waist signifies that she is pregnant. Thus, the image graphically depicts the fact that Christ is to be “born” again among the peoples of the New World, and is a message as relevant to the “New World” today as it was during the lifetime of Juan Diego.[1] Juan Diego was canonized on July 31, 2002 by Pope John Paul II in the Basilica of Santa Maria di Guadalupe, Mexico City and is remembered as a humble messenger whose faith and vision continue to inspire devotion throughout the world. Beloved Juan Diego, “the talking eagle”! Show us the way that leads to the “Dark Virgin” of Tepeyac, that she may receive us in the depths of her heart, for she is the loving, compassionate Mother who guides us to the true God. Amen.[2] [1] Saint Juan Diego biography Vatican.va [2] Homily prayer by Pope John Paul II on the canonization of Juan Diego Note: Optional Memorials and Commemorations are optional celebrations and, at present, we do not include content specific to these special days. This “About Today” is provided so that you can celebrate this Saint as you worship Christ. Thank you for praying with us. If you feel called, your Lenten offering helps carry this prayer to more hearts and languages. Contribute now