Exploring the pervasive appeal of Guadalupe
(CNS/Carlos Jasso, Reuters)This week’s guest is Nichole M. Flores, an assistant professor of religious studies at the University of Virginia and a contributing writer for America. In celebration of this week’s feast, we spoke to Dr. Flores about her recent article: “Guadalupe’s Legacy: How a 486-year-old vision of Mary in Mexico continues to influence the church.”
Dr. Flores talks about the history of the U.S. church’s devotion to Guadalupe, the influence of immigration of Hispanic Catholics into the United States and the “universal appeal of her story, the beauty of her symbol, and the way she comes to Juan Diego and empowers him.” She explained: “So many groups and individuals see themselves within that story.”
Dr. Flores also notes that Guadalupe’s image, when misused, can be challenging for women who grew up with a devotion to her. “There are also ways in which her image has been leveraged to pit women against each other, “ she said.
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