On December 12, 1531 Our Blessed Mother said to Saint Juan Diego:

“Hear me and understand well, my little son, that nothing should frighten or grieve you. Let not your heart be disturbed. Do not fear that sickness, nor any other sickness or anguish. Am I not here, who is your Mother? Are you not under my protection? Am I not your health? Are you not happily within my fold? What else do you wish? Do not grieve nor be disturbed by anything. Do not be afflicted by the illness of your uncle, who will not die now of it. Be assured that he is now cured.

Climb, my dear son, to the top of the hill; there where you saw me and I gave you orders, you will find different flowers. Cut them, gather them, assemble them, then come and bring them before my presence.

My dear little son, this diversity of roses is the proof and the sign which you will take to the bishop.”

And when the humble saint let the flowers fall from his tilma, the miraculous image appeared. It remains to this day in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. She is always present with us and always brings us closer to her Son. Let us be grateful for this great miracle and faithful to her message of deep trust and inner peace.

God bless you.

— Fr. Peter