Silver Rose Pilgrimage

A Continental Journey of Faith, Unity, and Life

The Silver Rose pilgrimage is one of the most cherished traditions of the Knights of Columbus—a living testament to our devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe, our commitment to the sanctity of life, and the unity that binds Knights across North America. What began in Laredo, Texas, has grown into a powerful spiritual movement that spans nations and touches thousands of hearts each year.

A Mission Rooted in Purpose

At its core, the Silver Rose program is a call to action—an invitation for every Knight, parish, and community to deepen their faith and witness to the dignity of human life.

• Honor Our Lady — Celebrating the miracle of Tepeyac and the enduring message of hope brought by Our Lady of Guadalupe.

• Protect Life — Affirming the inherent dignity of every human person, from conception to natural death.

• Foster Unity — Strengthening fraternal bonds among Knights in Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

This mission is carried forward not only through prayer, but through the visible witness of the Silver Rose as it travels across the continent.

A Pilgrimage Across Nations

Each year, eight Silver Roses begin their journey in Canada, traveling thousands of miles through the United States before reaching Mexico. Along the way, councils host prayer services, gather petitions, and invite their communities to join in a public expression of faith and solidarity.

The pilgrimage culminates on December 12, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, when the roses are placed on the altar at the Basilica in Mexico City, carrying with them the prayers of countless faithful.

Laredo: Home of the Silver Rose

Laredo holds a special place in this tradition—it is the birthplace of the Silver Rose program and the site of its annual international celebration.

A Celebration of Unity

For two days each December, Knights, families, clergy, and dignitaries gather in Laredo for a series of events honoring Our Lady and the journey of the Silver Rose:

• December 9 – Social Dinner (7:00 PM)  

A night of fellowship, Texas hospitality, and joyful devotion.

• December 10 – International Transfer  

Following the 12:00 PM Mass at San Agustín Cathedral, the Silver Rose is carried in procession to the International Bridge, where    Knights from the United States and Mexico meet for the ceremonial handoff.

This exchange—led by Supreme Directors, State Deputies, and Church leaders—stands as a powerful reminder that our brotherhood transcends borders. It is a sign of what is right in the world: a witness that we are all sons of God, called to unity and peace.

How Councils Participate

Local councils play a vital role as stewards of the Silver Rose when it passes through their communities:

• Host Prayer Services — Rosary‑centered gatherings focused on life, peace, and devotion to Our Lady.

• Collect Petitions — Gathering intentions to be delivered to the Basilica in Mexico City.

• Invite the Community — Offering a public witness of faith and unity.

• Attend Silver Rose Social - Council leadership attends the silver rose social where they get to meet the state council officers as well as supreme directors along with diocese wide leadership.

• Attend Silver Rose Mass and Silver Rose Transfer ceremony alongside our Bishop state officers and supreme directors.

A Symbol That Speaks

The Silver Rose is more than a tradition—it is a message.

A message that life is sacred.

A message that faith unites us.

A message that Our Lady of Guadalupe continues to guide her children across the Americas.

Born in Laredo, carried across nations, and welcomed at the feet of Our Lady, the Silver Rose reminds us who we are as Knights: men of faith, men of action, and men committed to building a culture of life.

Viva Cristo Rey!

Links

Silver Rose Social / Christmas Posada

International Silver Rose Mass at the St Agustin Catholic Cathedral

Silver Rose Pilgrimage Schedule Information

Point of Contact:  Julian Luna