Newsroom (12/11/2025 12:54, Gaudium Press) Around 13 million pilgrims are expected at the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City during the festive celebrations of the country’s patron saint. The number exceeds the more than 12 million devotees who visited the Marian Shrine on the same date last year.
Every year, a crowd of pilgrims gathers at the Basilica at this time to give thanks for the graces received before the miraculous mantle on which the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe is imprinted. The devotees also ask for the protection and intercession of the Mother of God, who appeared to St. Juan Diego in 1531.
Operation Basilica 2025, which supports the annual pilgrimage and celebrations, is underway and aligns with the major influx of pilgrims in early December.
Operation Basilica 2025 began on December 5 and will remain in effect through December 14, providing the best possible welcome to devotees arriving to venerate the Virgin of Guadalupe.
During Operation Basilica 2025, a contingent of 5,080 police officers will ensure the safety of pilgrims, including 255 vehicles and 73 motorcycles. Three ambulances and five motorcycle ambulances are also available. There were also three helipads for medical emergencies.
One of the symbols of national identity
The head of government of Mexico City, Clara Brugada, stated that Our Lady of Guadalupe “is one of the symbols of national identity, one of the great threads that weave together the history of Mexico.” She also said that the Mexico City government “respects, values, and protects all expressions of faith and tradition of our people; and one of them, the most important, is this, the pilgrimage of December 12.”
According to Brugada, this visit by pilgrims from different regions of Mexico and even other countries brings significant economic revenue to businesses in Mexico City. In 2024, the total amount reached 1.6 billion pesos (about $88 million). She believes that this amount will be exceeded. (EPC)
Compiled by Dominic Joseph
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