A Personal Invitation from Fr. Alvin Matias , Spiritual Director

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, 

I joyfully invite you to join me on a sacred pilgrimage to Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Shrines of Mexico, happening May 4–9, 2026. 

This is more than a trip—it is a deeply moving encounter with Our Lady, whose miraculous image on the tilma of St. Juan Diego continues to inspire millions around the world. Standing before the tilma at the Basilica of Guadalupe—one of the most visited Marian shrines on earth—you will feel the profound presence of our Blessed Mother and the warmth of her call to each of us. 

Our journey will take us beyond Mexico City, through towns and cities steeped in Catholic heritage: from the healing waters of Tlaxcala, to the miracle of Our Lady of Ocotlán, to the gold-adorned chapels of Puebla. We will walk the path of saints, martyrs, and faithful witnesses who brought light to the Americas. 

Not only will your faith be nourished, but your senses will be delighted. Savor Mexico’s vibrant culture—its music, colors, markets, and world-renowned cuisine. From street-side tacos to traditional mole poblano, every meal is a celebration of community and joy. 

I invite you to bring your prayers, your hopes, and your open heart. 

Whether you're seeking healing, gratitude, or spiritual renewal, this pilgrimage is an opportunity to draw closer to God through the loving intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe. 

To reserve your spot or learn more, please contact: 

Maria Drueco 

�� info@marianathatours.org 

�� 780-707-1683 

With hope and anticipation, 

Fr. Alvin Matias 

Spiritual Director 

 Board your flight to Mexico City. Upon arrival, meet your tour guide/driver and transfer to your hotel for rest. 

 Morning visit to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Experience the profound spirituality of the most visited Marian shrine in the world. Participate in Mass and reflect on the miraculous tilma of St. Juan Diego, where the image of the Virgin Mary is miraculously imprinted.

• Explore the significant sites within the Basilica complex:
  • Capilla del Cerrito (Original Chapel on the Apparition Site): The historic chapel marking the exact location where the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Juan Diego.
  • Old Basilica (Completed in 1709): A beautiful baroque structure that once housed the miraculous image before the new basilica was built.
  • La Capilla del Pocito (Chapel of the Little Well): A sacred chapel where a miraculous well opened under the feet of the Virgin Mary during the apparitions.
• Visit the Church of Santiago Tlatelolco: This historic church is the place where St. Juan Diego presented the tilma to Bishop Zumárraga. The site also marks the location of St. Juan Diego's baptism, symbolizing the encounter of indigenous faith with Catholicism.
• Visit the Plaza of the Three Cultures: A symbolic place that reflects Mexico’s rich history, combining Aztec ruins, a colonial church, and modern architecture. The plaza represents the fusion of pre-Hispanic, colonial, and contemporary Mexican cultures.
• Lunch at a local restaurant: Savor authentic Mexican cuisine, a blend of indigenous and Spanish influences.
• Afternoon visit to San Juan Teotihuacan: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, once considered the “City of the Gods” by the Aztecs. Discover the grand Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, and learn about ancient Mesoamerican culture and the obsidian stone craftsmanship.
• Dinner and overnight stay in Mexico City.

 Visit to Coyoacan: Explore the charming colonial district of Coyoacan, known for its vibrant culture and historical significance. Visit the Church of El Carmen, a Carmelite convent with beautiful architecture; the Church of Santa Catarina, a quaint chapel with colorful frescoes; and the Church of St. John the Baptist, a stunning Franciscan church with a rich heritage.

• Lunch in Coyoacan: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of this artistic neighborhood, known for its cobblestone streets and local eateries.
• Visit the Church of Santiago Tlatelolco: Delve into the history of the church where St. Juan Diego presented the tilma to Bishop Zumárraga. The church stands at the site of the ancient Aztec city of Tlatelolco, blending Mexico’s indigenous and Catholic roots.
• Visit Tulpetlac: Known as the site of the Fifth Apparition, this is where Our Lady appeared to Juan Bernardino, St. Juan Diego’s uncle, and performed a miraculous healing. Pray at the site where the Virgin Mary revealed her name as Guadalupe.
• Visit the Church of the 5th Apparition: This sanctuary commemorates the appearance of the Blessed Virgin to Juan Bernardino, featuring a well of healing water that locals believe to be miraculous..
• Dinner and overnight stay in Mexico City.

• Depart for Tlaxcala: Visit the Shrine of San Miguel del Milagro, where St. Michael the Archangel appeared to Diego Lazaro in 1631. The apparition revealed a miraculous spring believed to have healing properties. Collect holy water and participate in Mass.
• Visit Ocotlán: Home to the miraculous apparition of Our Lady of Ocotlán, whose image appeared on a burning tree. The sanctuary here is dedicated to the miraculous image that appeared to Juan Diego Bernardino.
• Lunch and travel to Puebla: Taste traditional Poblano cuisine, famous for its richly flavored mole sauce.
• Visit St. Dominic's Church and the Chapel of Our Lady of the Rosary: Marvel at the breathtaking gold leaf-covered walls, considered one of Mexico's most beautiful chapels and described as the “eighth wonder of the world.” 
• Explore the Church of St. Francis of Assisi: Visit the resting place of Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio, a Franciscan friar known for his missionary work and his role as the patron saint of travelers. His incorrupt body is enshrined here.
• Dinner and overnight stay in Puebla.

• Morning visit to Puebla’s historical center: Explore colonial architecture, vibrant tiles, and bustling markets. Discover local craftsmanship, including Talavera pottery.
• Return to Mexico City: Stop at a local market to purchase souvenirs and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.
• Visit Holy Family Church: Pay your respects at the tomb of Fr. Miguel Agustin Pro, a Jesuit martyr known for his unwavering faith during times of persecution.
• Explore the Museum dedicated to Father Pro: Learn about his life and legacy, reflecting on his dedication to serving God despite immense challenges.
• Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral: Discover the largest cathedral in Latin America, a masterpiece of Spanish colonial architecture filled with ornate altars and historical artifacts.
• Visit the Church of Santo Domingo and the Shrine of Our Lady of Covadonga: Experience the historical charm of this Dominican complex, which houses the chapel of the Rosary and the tomb of explorer Francisco Vázquez de Coronado.
• Return visit to the Basilica of Guadalupe: Participate in a final Mass and take time for personal reflection and prayer.
• Trajinera Experience in Xochimilco: End the day with a colorful boat ride through the canals of Xochimilco, part of Mexico City’s ancient Aztec waterways. Enjoy traditional music and a festive atmosphere.
• Dinner and overnight stay in Mexico City.

• Breakfast at the hotel: Reflect on the spiritual journey and the blessings received.
• Transfer to the airport for the return flight to Canada.