Mexico Catholics honor Virgin of Guadalupe with pilgrimage

Mexico's Roman Catholics have come out in large numbers on Sunday to a religious pilgrimage to Mexico City's Basilica of Guadalupe on Dec. 12.

Last year, the COVID-19 pandemic, forced church officials to close the basilica and offer virtual services instead.

This year, however, people put on their face masks and headed to honor the Virgin of Guadalupe, patroness of Latin America's Catholics.

The pandemic's 'new normal' was already in place: no sleeping next to the basilica, no prayers or dancing in the large plaza located north of the Mexican capital.

The Catholic faithful were of all ages and some carried images tied to their backs as well as flowers and banners.

Javier Jimenez was among those who was determined to arrive at the doorsteps of the basilica on his knees.

"It was a cesarean section, it was very complicated, my baby and my wife were at risk, the doctors said there was no chance. I prayed to the Virgin Mary and thanked God, she saved them both and now my baby is two months old," Jimenez said.

Also missing this year were the famous live singing of "Las mañanitas," a song that is typically played during birthdays and other important dates, and in which before the pandemic, was sung at midnight on December 12th.

But none of this stopped believers from expressing their joy and gratitude.

The pilgrimage marks the day in 1531 when the Virgin of Guadalupe is said to have appeared on the hillside behind the basilica.

IMAGE: AP