In an era often marked by sharp divides between tradition and progress within the Catholic Church, those who steadfastly uphold the ancient liturgical rites and timeless teachings frequently face labels—“rigid,” “old-fashioned,” or “conservative”—terms that too often carry dismissive overtones. To embrace the fullness of the Catholic faith without diluting it to fit modern sensibilities can lead to isolation, criticism, and even public humiliation, sometimes from within one’s own spiritual family.

Yet, in the midst of this tension, a remarkable moment of grace and courage quietly unfolded at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Crosse, Wisconsin. This sacred place, far more than a pilgrimage destination, stands as a steadfast beacon for those devoted to preserving the Church’s liturgical heritage. It is a living reminder that the Church’s heritage is not a dusty relic but a treasured inheritance to be nurtured and passed on.

On July 31st, the Shrine opened solemn celebrations marking its 17th anniversary. The Mass, celebrated in the traditional Roman Rite, was presided over by Cardinal Raymond Burke, whose vision had helped bring the shrine to life. Cardinal Burke’s commitment to reverent worship and fidelity to the Church’s liturgical treasures is well known, and his presence set a tone of profound reverence.

The homily was delivered by Cardinal Willem Jacobus Eijk of the Netherlands, a rare voice among Europe’s hierarchy who speaks openly and unwaveringly in defense of Catholic truths often left unspoken. His words carried a weight that resonated far beyond the assembled faithful. Addressing Cardinal Burke directly, Cardinal Eijk declared simply, “You are Catholic. Simply Catholic.” This statement cut through the noise of political labels and ideological pigeonholes often used to dismiss faithful clergy. It was a bold affirmation that fidelity to the ancient liturgy is not a political stance but a sacred duty.

Cardinal Eijk further revealed a painful truth: the harshest criticism Cardinal Burke has endured did not come from secular critics, but from within the Church itself—from fellow priests and authorities unable to tolerate the clarity of his witness. Yet, despite these wounds, Burke’s unwavering courage continues to inspire countless faithful.

Just days later, on August 5th, Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco celebrated Mass in the traditional Roman Rite at the same shrine, reinforcing the unity and continuity of this witness. Cardinal Burke preached, emphasizing that the traditional liturgy is not a relic of the past but a vibrant, living expression of the Church’s identity. It remains a sacred encounter with Christ, inviting the faithful into deeper prayer and reverence.

In today’s Church, debates over the Eucharist’s reverence and reception have intensified. For many, the Eucharist is not symbolic but the true presence of Christ—body, blood, soul, and divinity—and must be approached with utmost respect. Cardinal Burke and Archbishop Cordileone have been vocal defenders of this profound truth, calling the faithful to authentic communion rooted in grace and fidelity.

Cardinal Eijk’s homily underscored that liturgical fidelity safeguards the Church’s encounter with the divine mystery. When liturgy loses its sacred focus, the faithful risk losing sight of Christ at the center. The traditional Latin Mass—with its solemnity, formality, and silence—is a profound invitation to transcendence in a world increasingly accustomed to the ordinary.

While restrictions on the traditional Mass have caused tension, the gathering at La Crosse demonstrated that tradition and renewal need not be opposed but held in harmonious tension. The example of these three shepherds—Burke, Eijk, and Cordileone—stands as a testament that the Church’s mission is to bring the world to Christ, not reshape Christ to fit the world.

Throughout history, courageous leaders have stood firm amid pressure to protect sacred truths. The early Church Fathers defended Christ’s divinity against heresies; saints like Athanasius and Thomas More paid dearly for their witness. Today’s challenges differ but the principle remains: truth must be spoken and faith safeguarded, even at great personal cost.

The events at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe are a quiet but powerful reminder that God provides shepherds who guard the flock and celebrate the sacraments with reverence. Their witness offers hope to faithful Catholics feeling isolated—proof that unity rooted in truth and tradition is possible.

This moment will not be measured by headlines or social media but by the renewed faith of those who witnessed it and those inspired by their example. It calls Catholics to approach the altar with reverence and live their faith with courage.

Years from now, this gathering may be seen not merely as a shrine anniversary but as a luminous testament to the enduring power of truth, the beauty of the liturgy, and the unchanging presence of Christ in His Church.

May God bless you. Amen.