Symbolism & Purpose
The Silver Rose program is an initiative focused on promoting respect for life and honoring Our Lady of Guadalupe. It involves a pilgrimage where eight silver roses travel along different routes through Canada, the United States, and Mexico, culminating at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Monterrey, Mexico. The pilgrimage includes prayer services in both English and Spanish as well as rosary-centered occasions, and community involvement. I have attached the electronic version of the English Prayer Book and the Spanish Prayer Book.
Historical Context
The Silver Rose program was initiated in 1960 by the Columbian Squires, a youth organization of the Knights of Columbus, and has become an enduring tradition. It commemorates the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe and her appearance on the Hill of Tepeyac in Mexico City in 1531 to St. Juan Diego and “the miracle of roses”. The secrets of her image that have been captured on St. Juan Diego’s humble tilma are revealed here.
Pilgrimage & Your Involvement
The pilgrimage starts in early March and continues through mid-December with Knights of Columbus councils stewarding the roses along their respective routes. Each stop on the pilgrimage is a rosary-centered event where Knights, parishioners, and community members gather to pray. These services often include an Act of Consecration and the Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary, concluding with a final blessing. The Diocese of Joliet will host two roses during the week of August 23rd to August 30th. This schedule is tentative upon the acceptance of host parishes and schools to accept the invitation! We are looking forward to you saying “YES” just as our Mother said yes to everything that God asked of her! Over the years, we have witnessed such wonderful instances of our Mother’s intercession and God’s work in these prayer services and Masses. My Brother Knights and I pray for many blessings for you and hope that our paths cross very soon!