Mexico and the Pope

Watch the news for references to Mexico as the mourning continues for Pope John Paul II.  Although most Mexicans rarely if ever attend Mass, most still consider themselves Catholic as a part of their culture.

Mexico is an important place to watch for a reason.  Pope John Paul II was known specifically for his devotion to Mary.  His personal motto was “totus tuus“, totally yours.  This phrase was addressed, of course, to Mary herself, and he repeated it every day as a reminder of his dedication to Mary.  He believed Mary saved his life during the attempted assassination in 1981.

If there’s anywhere in the world where Mary is honoured, it’s in Mexico City.  The Pope visited Mexico five times over the years.  In fact, Mexico was the first foreign country he visited as Pope.  The great Roman Catholic church in Mexico City is the Basilica de Santa Maria de Guadalupe, the Basilica of St Mary of Guadalupe.  In Catholicism, Guadalupe is an incarnation of virgin Mary, and this place is considered by some Catholics to be the holiest place in the western hemisphere.  In the courtyard of the church is a large statue of the Pope.  Minutes after his death, thousands gathered around the statue to mourn.

(in the photo is the the old church on the left and the newer Basilica on the right.  The Basilica is huge; it’s hard to get a proper appreciation in this photo)

So, Mexico was very important to the Pope and the Pope was very important to Mexico.  This will be a very personal event for many in Mexico.  It will also demonstrate how much power and influence this Pope had around the world.  Click here for a quick view of news stories relating to the Pope’s death and Mexico.