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Guadalupe Feast Fills Shrines From Des Plaines to Mexico City Under Heightened Safety Measures

Communities navigated enforcement anxiety with assurances that ICE does not raid churches.

Pilgrims rest next to framed image of the Virgin of Guadalupe outside the Basilica of Guadalupe, in Mexico City, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, the day before her feast day. (AP Photo/Claudia Rosel)
Pilgrims arrive at Our Lady of Guadalupe Basilica in Mexico City, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, the day before her feast day. (AP Photo/Claudia Rosel)
Pilgrims arrive to Our Lady of Guadalupe Basilica in Mexico City, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, the day before her feast day. (AP Photo/Claudia Rosel)
Candles with the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe sit inside the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, the day before her feast day. (AP Photo/Claudia Rosel)

Overview

  • The 24‑hour pilgrimage at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Des Plaines went forward through bitter cold with thousands attending, though some attendees reported thinner crowds than in past years.
  • Organizers barred federal agents from church grounds without warrants, deployed uniformed police and trained volunteers, and offered livestreams for those choosing to participate from home.
  • The Archdiocese of Chicago described the Des Plaines gathering as the nation’s largest Guadalupe observance, with hundreds of thousands expected over the two‑day schedule of Masses and ceremonies.
  • A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson reiterated that ICE does not raid churches, a message cited by local leaders as they sought to reassure worried pilgrims.
  • Massive celebrations continued nationwide and at Mexico City’s basilica, which draws millions during the feast period, with events in Los Angeles, Dallas, Sacramento and other cities framed as expressions of refuge and resilience.