Our Lady of Guadalupe Procession at St. Joseph parish in Tucson

By Anna Gallardo and Deacon Alfonso Gallardo 

Dear Diocese of Tucson Community, 

On December 12, 2023, St. Joseph's Parish invites the Tucson community to unite in reverence for a cherished tradition, the Annual Our Lady of Guadalupe Procession. This occasion marks a profound homage to our Blessed Mother, commemorating the sacred apparitions of the Virgin of Guadalupe to Juan Diego in 1531 on the hallowed hill of Tepeyac in Mexico. 
  
Before the pandemic, this sacred procession attracted 1,500 to 2,500 pilgrims from Southern Arizona and Sonora Mexico, a testament to its profound impact and importance within our community. This year’s celebration commences with the 9th Annual Our Lady of Guadalupe Procession at 6:00 p.m., beginning on the west side of Loma Verde Park (5901 East 14th Street, Tucson, AZ, located behind Park Place Mall). As the community gathers, pilgrim images (and a live version) of Our Lady of Guadalupe and Saint Juan Diego adorned with red roses and ribbons will lead the way.  The procession culminates in the parking lot of St. Joseph Catholic Parish, ushering all pilgrims into the church for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass at 7:00 p.m. This deeply meaningful celebration will be presided over by Bishop Emeritus Gerald Kicanas. 
  
The procession is graced by the presence of Mexican traditional dance groups expressing their Catholic faith through dance along the route. Dressed in vibrantly adorned costumes, these Danzantes exhibit a rich cultural heritage. Their headpieces shimmer with sequins, beads, and bells, creating a symphony of devotion with every step.  These costumes, some sent from Mexico and others meticulously crafted by local families, hold profound significance.  Each embellishment reflects a personal touch, rendering every attire unique—a testament to the unity within diversity. 

Behind this cherished tradition lies a story of grit, fortitude, and unwavering commitment from the St. Joseph Parish Hispanic Ministry, Our Lady of Guadalupe Annual Procession Planning Committee.  Such a monumental gathering wouldn't be possible without the dedication and leadership of Juanita Perez, Dcn Ted Perez’ wife, and Cruz Jimenez, and the countless unnamed core members of the committee.  Rain or shine, they generously volunteer endless hours, pouring their hearts and souls into ensuring that this tribute to Our Lady of Guadalupe remains a beacon of faith, culture, and unity. 

The journey toward this annual event begins long before December 12th. It starts with tireless planning and fundraising, a concerted effort that kicks off at the start of each year. This committee, comprised of parishioners whose roots and traditions hail from Guanajuato and Sonora Mexico, infuse every step of the planning process with deep reverence and cultural significance.  Their sacrifices and selfless dedication lay the foundation for a celebration that transcends boundaries, uniting us in prayer, reverence, and reflects a deep-seated devotion to our Blessed Mother. 

As we gather to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe, let us embrace this opportunity for unity, faith, and cultural reverence. May this procession and Mass deepen our devotion to the Blessed Mother, fostering a spirit of harmony and faith within our Diocese of Tucson.