Feast of Our Lady of Candelaria de Santa Anita

On Sunday, the 17th August 2025, the Franciscan Fraternity of St. Anita, Jalisco, belonging to the Franciscan Province of Saints Francis and James in Mexico, celebrated with joy, faith and devotion its Mother, Patroness, Queen and Advocate for the 325th Anniversary of her maternal presence.

The original Image of Our Lady of Candelaria, one of the most loved and venerated images in the Franciscan Province, was carried in procession through the streets of the community; Every street and every believer poured forth manifestations of love and devotion.

On her return to her Shrine, Holy Mass was presided over by Br. Ignacio Ceja Jiménez, OFM., Vicar General of the Order and member of this Province. He accompanied them with his honorable visit.

The Franciscan Friars in this community already have almost 500 years of presence and mission since they have evangelized since 1530 and have been permanently in this place since 1760. Currently they administer a parish with great pastoral activity and the Shrine of the Virgin which receives thousands of faithful every year.

Thanks are given to God for all the benefits he has granted to the brothers and the community through the presence of the Blessed Virgin Mary and her Son Jesus Christ in this town and shrine of great Franciscan tradition.

Br. Luis Javier Roman Moya, OFM