If you have not read about the Tilma, I highly suggest you do so. It is truly amazing and many organizations have researched it. NASA had conducted studies on it that they claimed broke certain laws of science. Likewise, as a child I remember stories of how during a series of civil strife in Mexico, a hand grenade was thrown in the church it resides in. Everything was destroyed, but it. The reflection of Juan Diego in the eye of The Blessed Virgin Mary is un-replicable, among others that I have probably forgotten.

The use of Priests, v.s. Pastors is a common theme seen in the textbook in later chapters. Protestants (which is the perspective we see the most given that the US formed out of British control) use pastors, which for many, but not all denominations serve as a sort of coach and for lack of a better term "qualified teacher". They assist in interpreting scripture, head services, but don't possess any position or power that separates them from the laity. In Catholic theology, Priests are not only an authority in our church, but have the ability to say Mass, administer The Holy Eucharist, hear confession, give The Last Rites etc.

This ties into some of the "arguments" that we see in later chapters from Protestants cast upon Catholics. Many, but not all Protestants (Typically those who practice a sort of High Church Protestantism) dislike the use of icons, as they are seen as a sort of superstition. Catholics on the other hand, use them as a form of visual aid in worship and a sign of reverence.

Of course the Spanish had renamed the city of Tenochtitlan to Mexico City. This entire story takes place around this region post Spanish occupation.

The actual apparitions happened in December of 1531. Obviously, the translations of this would take a while, especially with limited printing capabilities to fully publish it.

Spanish conversions up until this point had been mixed as far as success. Many individuals still held onto their old cultures and beliefs. As such, Catholic missionaries had reached a sort of roadblock in converting through peaceful means.

This connects to the course material in that we see the growth of Catholicism in Mexico. These native individuals down the line, along with Spanish influence would help shape the southwest of our country and the cultures they bring. Likewise, these advances served as points of contention for Anglo Protestant settlers in the coming centuries.

Our Lady of Guadalupe was pivotal in the conversion of the Native Aztec people to Catholicism. She appeared in the garbs of the natives and spoke to a native and a peasant as well. Her apparition was meant as a means to incorporate the individuals of this new exotic world, with the traditions and faith of the old.

Humility within Catholicism is one of the most important key elements of the faith. This is especially true with Our Most Holy Virgin, whose entire life was dedicated to humility and complete obedience to the will of God. For the Virgin herself to commend you on this would be very remarkable.

This while seemingly unimportant is actually very important. Within most Marian Apparitions, bright light or the Sun in some cases are commonplace. At Our Lady of Fatima we see what is referred to as the Miracle of The Sun and here, her garments shine with a sunlike aura. Christ's power and love is often depicted as the sun, this is to say her presence and herself are glowing with the love/power of Christ.

I wonder what the meaning of this word in English is? As for what this is, this is the site in which Juan Diego was met with the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The original name of Juan Diego before his renaming.