The prayer to Saint Innocence reflects her deep devotion to God despite adversity. Her tragic story includes being murdered by her father for following her faith. Saint Innocence is considered a martyr, and her incorrupt body is venerated in Guadalajara. The Guadalajara Cathedral, where her reliquary is located, is an icon of religious architecture in Mexico.
Text of the Prayer
“O great God, all powerful, I come before you on my knees, to offer you my whole life. I give you with love everything I conceive and express, think and appreciate. I grant you all my hopes, illusions, wishes, and aspirations. I give you my heart to love you and be your faithful servant with all my strength, will, and abilities.
Explain to me everything you can, form me as a good person just like you are and let me do everything you want. Fill me with Your affection until my chest is completely full. Teach me how to be humble, for only You can instruct me on how to begin doing Your works of goodwill correctly.
Give me the courage to aspire to do good through me, just as your son Jesus Christ did. I wish that your holy will be done through me. In your hands I trust, under your care and holy protection. Amen.”
Biography of Saint Innocence
Saint Innocence, a Roman girl, was taken from the Catholic Church by her father, who saw it as a waste of time. Despite his opposition, she longed to practice her faith. One day, she befriended a nun who invited her to catechism classes. Innocencia learned about Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and the apostles and was excited to receive Holy Communion, albeit in secret.
Wearing a beautiful white dress gifted by the nun, she returned home to share her joy with her father. However, in a fit of rage, he stabbed her, killing her instantly. Her neighbors found her and took her to the cathedral to pray for her.
Her murder is seen as an act of the devil and one of the early persecutions against Catholicism. She was buried in Rome but later exhumed and taken to Guadalajara, where her preserved body is displayed in a glass case, symbolizing the love of the Eucharist.
Massacre of the Innocents
Many innocent lives have been lost due to the wrath of others. In the first century, King Herod ordered the massacre of defenseless children. The Holy Innocents are commemorated in the Bible and recognized as the first Christian martyrs.
This event also inspired the celebration of April Fool’s Day, originally dedicated to innocent pranks, now observed on December 28th.
Legend of Holy Innocence
Various legends surround Saint Innocence, particularly regarding her desire to make her First Communion despite her father’s threats. A nun invited her to join catechism classes, and she secretly attended. After her communion, she was tragically killed by her father.
In 2012, a video surfaced claiming to show her eyes opening and closing, prompting debate about its authenticity.
Myth or Reality
The strongest legend of recent times includes a video showing the eyes of Holy Innocence opening and closing. While some claim it was edited, others believe it could be a miracle. The truth remains unconfirmed.
The Holy Girl Innocence
Saint Innocencia’s story is about her desire to participate in the First Communion despite her father’s opposition. She secretly attended catechism classes and received a beautiful dress for the event. Tragically, after her communion, she was killed by her father.
Rational Explanation to the Case of Santa Inocencia
Researchers propose rational explanations for the mummified body of Saint Innocence, suggesting the earth from her burial site may have contained chemicals that aided in preservation. Observations indicate her body appears lifelike due to rigorous embalming processes.
Incorrupt Bodies and Holy Innocence
Incorrupt bodies are venerated in Catholic shrines, often preserved through various means. Saint Innocence’s body is displayed in Guadalajara Cathedral, receiving letters and offerings from devotees.
Holy Innocence Certificate of Authenticity
The certification of Santa Inocencia was made in March 1788 when her body arrived in Guadalajara. Fray Antonio Alcalde certified its authenticity, leading to its veneration in the cathedral.
Guadalajara Cathedral
The Basilica Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a historic and beautiful monument in Guadalajara. It has undergone numerous modifications due to earthquakes and remains a significant religious site.
History of the Cathedral of Guadalajara
Construction of the cathedral began in 1561, funded by the Royal Treasury and local communities. It has faced numerous challenges, including fires and earthquakes, leading to various reconstructions.
News of the Cathedral of Guadalajara
The cathedral remains at risk due to ongoing seismic activity. Structural concerns include the tilt of the northern tower and potential damage to the dome.
Crypts
The crypts of the cathedral house the remains of bishops and notable figures. They provide insights into the historical significance of the cathedral and its role in the community.
Cathedral Towers
The current towers, built in the 19th century, are designed to withstand earthquakes. Each tower features distinct heights and artistic elements, enhancing the cathedral’s architectural beauty.
