Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

In Wahneta, a town near Winter Haven, the local Mexican immigrant community marked the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with early morning gatherings on December 12, 2025. The event commemorated the appearance of Our Lady to Juan Diego, a member of the Nahua tribe, during the Spanish invasion of Mexico. Organizers say her message continues to provide comfort to Mexicans facing difficult times.

Flavio Villanueva became involved in the annual reenactment at Centro Guadalupano Mission after attending a Juan XXIII retreat in 2013. Initially cast in a supporting role as a bishop’s servant, he later took over as Juan Diego and has directed the production for two years.

Two days after the reenactment, on December 14, residents held a procession with an image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, followed by Mass and cultural events. Villanueva noted that many in his community are experiencing challenges but said church attendance remains strong.

“The Virgin has always given us shelter, ever since our arrival in this country. She offers refuge and leads us to her son, Jesus Christ. She covers us with her mantle. When she appeared to Juan Diego, she was pregnant. She presented herself as a tabernacle. So, we commend ourselves to Jesus, through her,” said Villanueva. “In those difficult moments, I think every Mexican seeks her protection and in that of the Church.”

Villanueva described Our Lady of Guadalupe as central to Mexican culture and history: “She was critical in the evangelization of the Aztec people. When Mexico fought to separate from Spain, she became part of our flag. She appeared during that time to bring peace.” He expressed hope that younger generations will maintain their devotion.

According to data cited at the event, more than three-quarters of Mexicans identify as Catholic and consider this feast day important.

Madela Luz Moreno moved to Wahneta 27 years ago on Our Lady’s feast day and assists her family while volunteering at Centro Guadalupano Mission. “For me the Virgin is the heart of Latin America. She symbolizes our culture and our roots. She united the indigenous and Europeans – always an advocate for unity,” said Moreno.

She recalled how Catholics known as Cristeros turned to Our Lady during religious persecution under President Plutarco Elias Calles from 1926-1929.

Moreno added that faith helps sustain people through present-day difficulties: “Every time I leave my house, I tell the Lord and the Virgin, ‘If I don’t go with you, don’t let me leave here.’ That is my daily prayer,” she said.

She believes her continued presence in Wahneta is guided by God and Our Lady’s purpose: “I believe God uses us for His purposes,” Moreno said.

During Mass on December 14th she read scripture aloud and plans ongoing participation in choir and prayer activities: “The Virgin of Guadalupe has always been here for me. No one else could have kept me going other than her,” she said.

The Diocese of Orlando oversees parishes such as Centro Guadalupano Mission within its nine-county area including Polk County where Wahneta is located. Established in 1968 under Bishop James Noonan’s leadership, it includes dozens of parishes and missions across Central Florida.