Bishop Garcia-Siller Greets the Faithful at Federal Plaza, Dec. 12 [Photo by EJS]
Bishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller celebrated Holy Mass for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe at Federal Plaza in Chicago December 12 with over 400 faithful in attendance, in the shadow of the Federal Building where President-Elect Barack Obama is working with his transition team.
Despite the eleven degree temperature and biting wind, the Mass was a joyous celebration of the life that comes into the world through the Mother of God.
Twelve priests concelebrated with Bishop Garcia-Siller assisted by two deacons and a host of acolytes.
The Bishop delivered a stirring homily about the hope that came to the world, and especially the people of Mexico, through Our Lady’s appearance at Tepyac nearly five hundred years ago. His Excellency repeatedly called upon the faithful to chant after him “We are people of hope” and “We are people of life.”
Before the Liturgy of the Eucharist, the faithful brought flowers to a shrine set up next to the altar with a statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe along with Mexican plants and flowers.
Traditional hymns to Our Lady of Guadalupe as well as the rest of the music for the mass was provided by the Mariachi band from St. Agnes of Bohemia Parish.
After the Mass, the crowd stayed for fellowship over coffee, hot chocolate, and Mexican sweet breads. The Bishop stayed as well, greeting and blessing the faithful.
The Mass was sponsored by the Pro-Life Action League, the Thomas More Society Pro-Life Law Center and the Archdiocese of Chicago Office for Hispanic Catholics, the Respect Life Office, and the Office for Peace and Justice.
Hundreds braved the cold to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe [Photo by EJS]
