The Guadalupan Torch Run is returning to nine parishes in the diocese this year after a condensed itinerary last year. The torch is a symbol of unity and hope across countries. (Troy C. Hull | Catholic News Herald)CHARLOTTE — The annual Guadalupan Torch Run will arrive in the Diocese of Charlotte on Wednesday, Nov. 4. Its first stop will be at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Charlotte. It will then visit nine churches throughout the diocese before continuing to the Diocese of Raleigh, where it will arrive at St. Julia Parish in Siler City on Nov. 9.
The Guadalupe Torch Run is a relay pilgrimage that travels each year through Mexico and the United States in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The Marian fire symbolizes the light of faith, the love of Mary, and the hope of an immigrant community divided by a shared border.
The journey begins in Mexico City and ends at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, covering more than 3,000 miles.
The pilgrimage has taken place since 2002 and has become a symbol of hope for immigrants, bringing an image of Mary often touched by friends and family members on its journey to Mexican communities across the United States.
The torch and a large replica of the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe will be transported in a trailer with glass windows, allowing people to see them along the route and at each stop.
At each stop, the torch will be welcomed with a procession. Masses will also be celebrated, and traditional Mexican dances accompanied by music will be performed, along with other activities, before participants accompany the torch to its next destination.
In the Charlotte diocese, the Guadalupan Torch Run has become an annual tradition that has brought together thousands of people to venerate Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Last year, amid threats of mass deportations by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the Charlotte area, the torch took on added significance as a beacon of hope for immigrant communities facing fear and uncertainty.
This year, the pilgrimage will see a return to two traditions interrupted by last year’s immigration concerns: A group of runners will once again accompany the torch, and Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Charlotte will welcome the pilgrimage after opting not to host it last year.
— Brian Segovia
Planned stops
- Nov. 4: Our Lady of Guadalupe, Charlotte; arrival at 6 p.m.
- Nov. 5: St. James, Hamlet; arrival at 6 p.m.
- Nov. 6: St. Francis of Assisi, Rich Park, Mocksville; arrival at 4:30 p.m.
- Nov. 6: Divine Redeemer, Boonville; arrival at 10 p.m.
- Nov. 7: Our Lady of the Rosary, Lexington; arrival at 9:30 a.m.
- Nov. 7: Holy Infant, Reidsville; arrival at 6 p.m.
- Nov. 7: St. Mary’s, Greensboro; arrival at 9 p.m.
- Nov. 8: Our Lady of the Highways, Thomasville; arrival at noon.
- Nov. 8: Immaculate Heart of Mary, High Point; arrival at 6 p.m.
Consult your local parish for any updates to this schedule.