Rock Island, Ill. –Augustana College Latinos Unidos—a student group fostering understanding and appreciation for
Hispanic culture—and the Office of Multicultural Services invite students and members of the community to celebrate and learn about Mexico’s most popular religious and cultural image at the annual Tribute to Our Lady of Guadalupe. The free event will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m. in Centennial Hall (3703 7th Ave.).
The special commemoration will include a live performance by the Mariachi Ameca, a mariachi band from Chicago, and a tribute to the history and anniversary of the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe with a shrine and short play.
Our Lady of Guadalupe is an important spiritual and historical figure. After she appeared to Juan Diego, and the story of a “goddess” who brought the moon, stars and sun together under one God spread throughout Mexico, thousands of native Mexicans converted to Catholicism. This mass conversion helped bring peace to Mexico after the conquest by Spain.
“Our Lady of Guadalupe has inspired the people of Mexico for more than 400 years,” said Greg Aguilar, director of multicultural services at Augustana. “Many of Mexico’s most popular historical figures have led independence and revolutionary movements for the people under the banner of Our Lady of Guadalupe.”
The shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe, Mexico City, is the most visited Catholic pilgrimage destination in the world. It has been a part of Mexican culture since 1531.
Guests are welcome to bring flowers to lay on the altar and are encouraged to wear traditional clothing.
For more information, please contact Keri Rursch, director of public relations, at [email protected] or (309) 794-7721.
About Augustana: Founded in 1860, Augustana College is a selective four-year residential college of the liberal arts and sciences. Augustana is recognized for the innovative program Augie Choice, which provides each student up to $2,000 to pursue a high-impact learning experience such as study abroad, an internship or research with a professor. Alumni include 139 Academic All-Americans, a Nobel laureate, 12 college presidents and other distinguished leaders. The college enrolls 2,500 students and is located along one of the world’s most important waterways, the Mississippi River, in a community that reflects the diversity of the United States.
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