Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The Archdiocese of Louisville is preparing for the annual celebration of the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12. This event commemorates the appearance of the Blessed Mother to St. Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin in Mexico during the 16th century. St. Juan Diego, who was canonized by St. John Paul II in 2002, has his feast day celebrated on December 9.

Our Lady of Guadalupe holds significance as the patroness of the Americas, and her feast day will be marked by various events across several parishes in the archdiocese.

The Office of Hispanic Ministry has provided a schedule detailing these events:

- St. Edward Church will begin with a rosary at 8 p.m., followed by Mass and youth group presentations.

- St. Joseph Church plans an 11 p.m. Mass on December 11.

- St. Rita Church hosts a novena from December 3-11 at 7 p.m., culminating in Mañanitas and midnight Mass, with additional services on December 12.

- Epiphany Church will have Mañanitas at 5 a.m., followed by a Mass at 6 a.m.

- St. Peter the Apostle Church offers a novena from December 3-11 and features cultural activities on December 12.

- Holy Name Church celebrates with an evening vigil Mass on December 11, followed by Mañanitas.

- Annunciation Church in Shelbyville will host a novena and festivities including a play based on Our Lady's apparitions.

- Immaculate Conception Church in La Grange begins its celebrations early morning on December 12 with various activities throughout the day.

- St. Helen Church in Glasgow will conduct its novena leading up to a celebration with music and refreshments.

- Christ the King Church in Tompkinsville will hold Spanish Masses throughout their novena period with English services also available.

- Finally, St. James Church in Elizabethtown rounds out their observance with prayers, serenades, and late-night fellowship.

Each location brings its unique touch to this revered tradition, welcoming parishioners to participate fully.