Novi Celebrates Our Lady of Guadalupe with Joy and Tradition
Novi, a community known for its vibrant culture, recently came alive with celebrations honoring Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12. This year, the festivities were held at the Catholic Church of the Holy Family, where families, friends, and community members gathered to pay tribute to this cherished figure in Hispanic culture.
Why Our Lady of Guadalupe Matters
So, what’s all the buzz about Our Lady of Guadalupe? Gabriela Vazquez, the Hispanic ministry director at the church, shared that she is considered the “empress of the Americas.” Because of this, the Catholic Marian feast dedicated to her is a significant event for the Hispanic community, especially in the United States. Did you know that about 25% of the parish at Holy Family Novi identifies as Hispanic? That’s a whole lot of heart and spirit!
A Night Full of Dance and Music
This year’s celebration included spectacular performances by the Ballet Folklorico Mexico Lindo, under the talented direction of Elsa Carrera. Their Concheros dances were truly a sight to behold! Before the Mass began, these dancers brought tradition to life, showcasing their cultural heritage right in the church. It really set the tone for the evening!
As the night unfolded, Arturo Cepeda, the auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Detroit, presided over the Mass, which drew in a breathtaking crowd. The community was then treated to a beautiful sight as a group of young men paraded an altar displaying the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, adorned with dozens of stunning roses. Talk about an eye-catching tribute!
A Feast for the Senses
The fun didn’t stop at the Mass. Afterward, the dancers from Ballet Folklorico Mexico Lindo entertained everyone with several other lively performances that highlighted dances from various regions of Mexico. It was a colorful explosion of culture that had people clapping and cheering. Later, as if the night couldn’t get any better, Gabriela Vazquez and Santiago Fernández, the music and worship director, joined forces to perform traditional Mexican songs. With these songs filling the air, it wasn’t long before the guests were on their feet, dancing the night away!
A Tradition of Togetherness
This celebration isn’t just a one-time event; it’s a cherished tradition that has been taking place at Holy Family Novi for the last 15 years. Vazquez mentioned that around 650 people attend the celebration annually, and it takes a big team of volunteers to make such a wonderful night happen. From organizing the performances to ensuring everyone enjoys the complimentary dinner, so many people come together to create this unforgettable experience.
Looking Ahead
If you’re feeling inspired and want to join in on the festivities next year, mark your calendars! Visiting the Holy Family Novi website can keep you updated on future events and activities. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community and celebrate rich cultural traditions.
In a world where connections can sometimes feel lost, events like these remind us of the power of community, culture, and celebration. Here’s to more evenings of music, dance, and unity in the heart of Novi!
