The celebration of the Virgen de Lourdes at the parish church in a poor neighborhood of Chapala
In 2008 I purchased my first casa in Chapala, Jalisco. The customs of the community include wide smiles even in the midst of poverty. When passing people while walking down the street, if I say “Buenos Dias” it is the custom to respond likewise. Culturally it is
They celebrate the virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior
a poor reflection on their mother if they are silent. Walking down the streets of Galt, California ~ I rarely saw anyone in their yard or walking, but here, the people are up at 7:00 AM and busy sweeping the streets and sidewalks (not the Cities responsibility) in front of their homes, their businesses.
The families share what little they have with anyone in attendance
The celebration of the Virgen de Lourdes at the parish church in a poor neighborhood of Chapala was highly attended. Humble and filled with gratitude for what they do have “God” and “Community”, the people of Mexico are resourceful, hard-working and among the happiest people in the world.
A humble place to worship Jesus and celebrate His mother in Chapala
Grace alone which God supplies — Strength unknown He will provide — Christ in us, our cornerstone — We will go forth in grace alone. Every soul we long to reach — Every heart we hope to teach — Everywhere we share His peace —- is only by His grace. Every loving word we say — Every tear we wipe away —Every sorrow turned to praise — is only by His grace.
What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and grief to bear. Who can cheer the heart like Jesus, by His presence all divine? True and tender, pure and precious, O how blest to call Him mine. All that thrills my soul is Jesus, He is more than life to me. Love of Christ so freely given, Grace of God beyond degree, Mercy higher than the heaven, deeper than the deepest sea!
Living Abroad 