By Charles Igwe
Every Wednesday, a group of faithful gather before an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe in the garden area of Andares Shopping Center, Zapopan, Jalisco, to pray the rosary. This initiative, launched by Adriana Orozco in 2022, aims to bring the faith to those who no longer attend church regularly.
Orozco shared with ACI Prensa that what started as a small gathering in October, the month dedicated to the rosary, has grown to include flowers, music, and a steady group of participants, many of whom work in the shopping center. She noted that the rosary gatherings offer passersby a moment to reconnect with God and reflect on their faith.
Diana García, communications coordinator for Andares, expressed the center’s support for activities that encourage reflection and bring people closer to God. She highlighted Andares’ dedication to the Virgin of Guadalupe and said such gatherings foster community values of peace and solidarity.
During October and May—months traditionally dedicated to the Rosary and to Mary, respectively—the faithful meet daily to pray. The center also hosts special Advent activities, including lighting the Advent wreath each Sunday, preparing visitors for the Christmas season by focusing on prayer and reflection.
On December 12, the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the shopping center dedicates a space where visitors can leave petitions and messages of gratitude to the Virgin. This October 31, at 4:30 p.m., the image of Our Lady of Expectation of Zapopan, patroness of Guadalajara, will be brought to the center, inviting the community to unite in prayer. The title “Expectation” reflects the time when Our Lady was expecting Jesus.
