(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Roman Catholics have been visiting the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Des Plaines this weekend for an annual pilgrimage, which drew 400,000 people in 2021.
The pilgrimage comes on the anniversary of when Catholics say Mary appeared before Saint Juan Diego of Mexico City nearly 500 years ago. WBBM was told it’s the largest observance to honor Mary in the United States, though it’s dwarfed by events in Mexico
Silvia, from Cicero, said she has been here many times. Her prayers to Mary to get pregnant were answered, she said.
Adrian, from Austin, came here with his family and girlfriend to pray for health and a better life.
“Not sad no more, it’s more of trying to better yourself,” he said.
Justin, from Streamwood, came during the day to avoid some of the crowds that gather throughout the night for mass, to watch dances by folk groups, or to hear choirs singing and enjoy fireworks.
“I came last year, as well, but I came at night, since I had to work that night, but it was really crowded,” he said. “I know a lot of people walk from other states and stuff like that. They walk miles, or even hours. I know some people walk from Michigan or Indiana. They make that effort to come here just for her.”
Catholic priests at the entrance of the outdoor shrine blessed flowers, candles, statues of the Virgin Mary, crucifixes, and other items people carried with them to the shrine.
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