Pilgrims return with ‘moments full of grace’ from Marian journey to Mexico

Maura Baker

Staff Writer

More than 33 pilgrims from around the diocese joined Bishop John Iffert on a pilgrimage to Mexico, Sept. 21–26. This pilgrimage brought pilgrims to the most visited Marian site in the world — the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, where the Blessed Virgin famously requested St. Juan Diego to build a church — as well as other Marian sites within the North American nation.

The pilgrimage was described as “moving,” “amazing,” and “inspirational” among pilgrims as they reflected on the week-long experience.

“We visited many churches and holy places where we learned about the history of Mexico and the Church, and the faith of its people,” said one pilgrim, Kira Lodge Kruer, who experienced the pilgrimage alongside her sister, Kaylee Kanning.

“It was especially meaningful to visit the site of the apparition of the Virgen de Guadalupe, and to witness how her presence transformed and continues to transform the hearts of so many. We loved our fellow pilgrims and were so grateful to share this experience with each other,” she said.

For some pilgrims, such as Ceil Dorger, visiting Mexico’s Marian sites, and especially viewing St. Juan Diego’s tilma, was a desire of “many years.”

“It did not disappoint. The shrine was a holy place, and we were able to see the Tilma several times. It was utterly moving,” Ms. Dorger said. “The beauty of the pilgrimage, though, was the people we were with on the trip and the lovely Mexican folks we encountered. Their devotion was incredibly inspiring.”

This sentiment is shared by Ms. Dorger’s fellow pilgrim, Michael McGreevy, who was especially touched by another international pilgrim who raised her arms in prayer while the pilgrims were visiting the Capilla del Cerrito de los Angeles (literally the Chapel of the Little Hill of the Angels), a chapel built on the site where the Blessed Virgin first appeared to St. Juan Diego.

“I was so moved by the people in Mexico,” Mr. McGreevy said, “their faith is so deep.”

This deep devotion was also visible in the very decorative architecture of the church buildings themselves, with many pilgrims commenting on the interiors — some decorated floor to ceiling with artwork, carvings, gold filigree and decorative titles.

“The churches we visited were adorned with gorgeous flowers and banners as these celebratory people got ready for upcoming feast days,” said Ceil Dorger. “Such deep devotion for our faith was on display … I was humbled by this outpouring of devotion on display and delighted by peoples’ kindnesses and moments full of grace bestowed on us visitors — something valuable to take home with us!”