Guadalajara -
Many have written about the Virgin of Zapopan, patroness and protector of Guadalajara and the state of Jalisco, and I can add nothing to what they've already said. But today she passed right by my front door, so I felt compelled to capture a few images.
The legend of Nuestra Señora de Zapopan dates to 1541 in this profoundly Roman Catholic nation. Here's one Church account.
Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, 12:30 a.m.
Also known as the Traveling Lady of Zapopan, the Virgin is "on the road" much of the time, visiting neighborhoods and parishes throughout the state. Today she called on one of the most magnificent churches I have seen anywhere in this country - the Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento (Church of the Most Holy Sacrament). By Mexican standards it's young: construction was started in 1897, and finally finished 75 years later, in 1972. It's a very impressive sight, especially after dark. I'm lucky to live a block away, and to be able to hear its chimes early in the morning and late at night.
During the procession honoring the Virgin her statue is carried in the back of a luxury vehicle which is not driven, but rather pulled down city streets by volunteers - a symbol of subservience and devotion.
Images copyright © 2012 Mexico Gulf Region Reporter (MGRR) - control panel is at bottom of photos
Dec. 12, 2012 - Mexico celebrates "La Virgen Morena," the Brown Virgin
Oct. 31. 2011 - Día de los Muertos - A photo essay
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