Our Lady of Guadalupe, referred to also as the Virgin of Guadalupe (Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ). The name “Mary” is of Jewish origin and means “the chosen by God,” “the most beautiful” or the “illuminator.” “Guadalupe” is of Arabic origin and means “River of black grave” or “the bed of the river.” According to religious experts, the Virgin of Guadalupe was presented with the name St. Mary of Guadalupe, which translates to “the holy bed of the river that carries living water and true light.”

The Virgin of Guadalupe occupies a special place in the culture and religious life of many Mexicans and Latinos in the United States. Her importance is so great that her image, which originated in Mexico, has become a transnational symbol, her influence growing across the U.S. due to migration and the increased presence of Mexican culture.

Catholic churches organize masses, processions and festivals in her name on her feast day, Dec. 12, coinciding with the day she appeared before an Indigenous man in the 1500s in what is now Mexico City, according to Catholic teachings.