Millions Honor Virgin of Guadalupe as Violence in Mexico Persists

Despite calls from the Catholic Church for a truce in cartel violence, the annual pilgrimage to Mexico City's Basilica drew over 11 million worshippers.

• The 493rd anniversary of the Virgin of Guadalupe's apparition brought millions of pilgrims to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.
• Many pilgrims traveled long distances on foot, bicycles, or even on their knees to fulfill promises and express gratitude to Mexico's patron saint.
• The Catholic Church urged cartels to pause violence during the celebration, but deadly incidents, including 15 bodies found in Guanajuato, highlighted ongoing unrest.
• The Virgin of Guadalupe, a symbol of faith and cultural identity, holds deep significance for Mexicans and Latinos worldwide, with celebrations extending to the United States.
• The Virgin's story traces back to 1531 when she is believed to have appeared to Indigenous peasant Juan Diego, with her image miraculously imprinted on his cloak, now displayed in the Basilica.

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