Hispanics proud of new saint

St. Juan Diego experienced the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico in 1531. She told him that she wished for a church to be dedicated to her on the top of Tepeyac Hill, then used as a worship site for a goddess.

When Juan informed the local bishop, he was rebuffed and sent back to request a sign from the Virgin Mary herself. He returned the next day, having, at Our Lady's request, picked a cloak full of roses that grew only in Spain. When he opened his cloak, a miraculous image of Our Lady of Guadalupe was seen. The cloak survives -- in the cathedral built in her honor.

Real man

Nick Hernandez, an associate professor of Spanish at Russell Sage College in Troy and a member of the Hispanic ministry at Christ Sun of Justice parish in Troy, believes "there is no doubt in the devout Spanish-American mind, heart and spirit that Juan Diego lived -- and was blessed by a vision of the Virgin."

Mr. Hernandez stresses the importance of St. Diego's vision in the conversion of Latin America to Christianity. "It does not matter if you are a believer or if you are not a believer," he said. Either way, "you know that something ground-shaking has taken place."

Recognition

"This is great recognition for the Native American population," said Ishmael Ramos, professor of educational psychology at The College of St. Rose in Albany. "To a great extent, there is a lot of devotion to Our Lady in the Mexican community, and, indeed, all over. There is a great feeling for her in all parts of the Hispanic community" in the Diocese.

Sister Anne Tranelli, CSJ, director of Hispanic Outreach Services for the Diocese, said that the canonization is a major event for the community.

"The fact that Juan Diego has been raised to the sainthood is very significant," she stated, "especially for those of Mexican and indigenous heritage."

Patroness

In a recent pastoral letter, the bishops of Mexico exhorted Catholics to recognize the role of indigenous people in the Church.

"The message of Guadalupe vindicates the place of the poor and marginalized in the construction of a more just and fraternal nation," they wrote. "The canonization and beatification of indigenous brothers fill us with joy, because their recognition on the part of the universal Church means they are an example that can help us return to the indigenous roots of our people."

(08-01-02) [[In-content Ad]]