In the darkness of a cold and wet morning, a crowd slowly formed in the lower levels of The Grotto around an illuminated statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Flanked by a Mexican flag, the symbol united hundreds on Dec.

Catholic believers from all across the country and Mexico celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Worshippers fill the churches and cathedrals to partake in religious celebrations paying homage to the Virgin Mary,

DES PLAINES, Ill. - The faithful are braving the cold Thursday night to honor the Virgin Mary in Des Plaines. Today marks the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a celebration dedicated to Mexico's patron saint. Thousands are making their annual pilgrimage to the shrine, participating in what has become the largest event of its kind in the nation.