The Virgin, The Parade, and Lake Chapala

The Virgin of Zapopan is also known as “Our Lady of Expectation”. She’s also referred to as La Generala or the Zapopanita. In 1734, she was proclaimed Patroness against storms and lightning. The statue stays in Guadalajara from June 13 to October 12. After Mexico became independent in 1821, the Virgin was proclaimed Patroness of the State of Jalisco. So she is therefore the Patroness of Lake Chapala. I think it was about 6 or was it 7 years ago, when she visited Lake Chapala and at that time the lake was very low. Many prayers when up to the Virgin to ask God to intercede. Since then the Lake has recovered year by year to it’s present level. The Virgin is also the patron saint of Guadalajara, and is highly revered. Many faithful followers also believe that she has interceded for them in asking God for miracles. Every year this little statue is carried from her home church (Basilica of Zapopan) to visit each and every church in Guadalajara! Her visit in each church lasts about a week. It takes her about four months to visit each of her churches. When she visits the Church at Chapala the people in Chapala turn out to welcome her with a parade, bands, Indian dances, mounted caballeros and their ladies, marching bands, and the inevitable fireworks. Take a look at the video below of her visit in July 2010.