On Wednesday, December 12, Rockhurst High School celebrated a unique Mass for the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The Mass included traditional Mexican holy decorations, a mariachi band that performed the hymns, and a service done primarily in Spanish. The celebration was held on the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patron saint of the Americas.
This date has particular importance to the Latin American community because of its history. Mary appeared to Juan Diego of Mexico City in the 16th century. Juan Diego proceeded to tell the Bishop, who told him to wait for a sign from the lady to prove her divinity. Mary gave Juan Diego roses to give to the bishop, and a picture of her appeared. This picture is still venerated today in Mexican culture as reverence to the mother of God. This image was also present in the Mass Wednesday.
This Mass was an opportunity for Rockhurst to show support for the diversity of the community by celebrating a key point in Latino culture. The service was a unique experience that was unlike any Mass Rockhurst has ever had and is likely one that will not be soon forgotten.