DES PLAINES, Ill. (WLS) — A life-size sculpture of the Virgin Mary arrived in the suburbs on Wednesday night.

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“Madre Peregrina,” which translates to “pilgrim mother,” is being welcomed to the Shrine of Our lady of Guadalupe in Des Plaines.

There was a celebratory Mass and procession, and hundreds attended.

“It is wonderful; it is absolutely wonderful,” Mount Prospect resident Diane Madison said.

Madison reflected on “Our Lady” as a beacon of hope and a protector.

“Luckily we have this heavenly mother who puts her mantle over all these holy innocents,” she said.

Organizers expect thousands of worshippers to visit the shrine over the coming weeks.

Worshippers can visit Monday through Friday at the Des Plaines shrine through Sept. 30.

Those wishing to visit must register.

In October, the tour will continue to San Gall and Madre de las Américas in Chicago.

The Chicago area is the first stop on the sculpture’s international tour.

She traveled all the way from her home base in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.

Teams assembled an experiential exhibit featuring the statue Wednesday.

This tour also is part of a larger lead up to the 500th anniversary of the Apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe in 1531.

For Celia Espinoza, the experience tied her closer to the Virgin Mary and her faith.

“I stay with the Lady of Guadalupe and God. She’s very good for me,” Espinoza said.

The shrine’s rector and exhibit director shared that this event has been in development for three years, arriving at a crucial time when, according to them, hope is more essential than ever.

“Our goal is to convey what she intended with her visit. She didn’t just come to request the construction of a small church. She promised to offer all her love, support, and blessings to everyone here and beyond. And indeed, we are in dire need of love, help, and protection,” expressed the Very Rev. Esequiel Sanchez.

Religious leaders anticipate that this installation, featuring original music and reflective narration, will enliven the miracle of her presence, bringing fresh hope and vitality to those seeking spiritual support.

“We aim for visitors to engage with more than just an image; our hope is to create a complete experience that encourages introspection and opens our hearts,” stated Sanchez.

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