By Wendy Cano
THL2025 in Mexico City is more than a professional gathering, it is a true pilgrimage to the feet of Our Lady of Guadalupe, where heaven once touched earth. This year’s Tepeyac Leadership Conference invites Catholic professionals from around the world to encounter Christ through Mary, to be renewed in mission, and to rediscover what it means to lead as lay apostles in the world.
What a grace it is to be called to this encounter. For many, this will be the first time standing on the sacred ground of Tepeyac Hill, where St. Juan Diego met the Mother of God. For all, it will be a time of profound renewal, an opportunity to grow not only as leaders but as disciples, guided by Mary’s maternal love. As we prepare for this grace-filled experience, let us come together united in prayer, purpose, and joyful anticipation.
Preparing Our Hearts
Before we gather, I invite each of you to read the Nican Mopohua, the original account of Our Lady’s apparitions to St. Juan Diego. This beautiful text helps us enter the mystery of Tepeyac with reverence and simplicity. Through Juan Diego’s humility, we learn the essence of lay leadership, to listen, to trust, and to serve with courage and love.
Arrival and Welcome
Plan to arrive on Thursday, November 6, giving yourself time to settle in before our Welcome Reception at the Majestic Hotel. This joyful evening will mark the beginning of our shared pilgrimage, a chance to meet fellow participants, reconnect with friends, and prepare our spirits for the days ahead.
At the Feet of Our Lady
Friday morning, we begin early with breakfast at the Majestic Hotel’s Terraza Restaurant before boarding our shuttles to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. There, we will spend time in prayer and reflection before the sacred image that has inspired countless conversions and vocations. The day continues at Montecristo Mesón Restaurante, where our conference sessions will unfold, inviting us to explore Catholic leadership through the lens of faith and mission.
That evening, you’ll have the freedom to explore the heart of Mexico City. Whether you choose to visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, Museo del Templo Mayor, or enjoy a meal at El Cardenal or Las Sirenas, let this time deepen your appreciation for the city’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Formation and Celebration
Saturday will be a full day of formation at the Instituto Superior de Estudios Guadalupanos, located at the very foot of Tepeyac Hill. There, we will reflect on leadership in the spirit of St. Juan Diego, who responded to Mary’s call with humility and boldness.
That evening, we gather once more for the St. Juan Diego Leadership for the World Award Reception and Dinner, a celebration of faith in action and of lay leaders who are transforming society through the Gospel.
A Farewell with Our Lady’s Blessing
On Sunday, our pilgrimage concludes with Mass at the Metropolitan Cathedral, just steps from the Majestic Hotel. Whether you attend the early liturgies or the principal Mass with the Cardinal, may this final moment of worship send you forth renewed and inspired to sanctify the world.
Practical Details
Please download the full program to your phone for easy access. Uber works reliably in Mexico City, and official taxis are available at the airport. Dress in business attire throughout the conference and cocktail attire for Saturday’s dinner. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended.
If you have any questions, contact us at administration@tepeyacleadership.org.
We are truly blessed to share this sacred time of faith, fellowship, and growth with you. May Our Lady of Guadalupe intercede for us as we prepare to meet her at Tepeyac, where the mission of the laity finds its truest inspiration.
P.S. There’s still time to invite your friends to register for THL2025.
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