Guadalupe basilica raises $3 million annually, says rector

Published: 2006-01-17

MEXICO CITY (CNS) -- The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City raises up to $3 million per year, said the rector of the basilica. Msgr. Diego Monroy Ponce told members of the media Jan. 14 that most of the revenue comes from donations and selling religious souvenirs such as rosaries, candles, statues and posters of Mary and the saints. Msgr. Monroy, who refused to be more specific regarding the financial figures, was confirmed Jan. 14 for another five-year term as rector. During his new term, he said he intends to begin several projects, including the construction of the "Plaza Mariana." The large complex will house a center for evangelization, a multimedia center with a museum, a parking lot for pilgrims and a shopping center.

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