Before the American Southwest became part of the United States, Spanish missionaries planted the cross, establishing churches, roads, and towns that formed the backbone of future expansion. However, this history is complex and marked by mixed motives, conquest, and the exploitation of indigenous peoples.

In this episode, explore how God writes straight with crooked lines. Discover the pivotal role of the Blessed Virgin Mary's maternal presence, from her appearance to Juan Diego as Our Lady of Guadalupe to the tradition of Our Lady of the Macana during the Pueblo Revolt of 1680. Learn how these sacred traditions and art served to bridge worlds, call for justice, and ultimately point hearts back to Jesus.

In this new series, "A Marian Route to America," as the nation celebrates its 250th birthday, we invite you to explore the forgotten spiritual and providential forces from a Marian lens, that helped form the United States of America. Join us as we begin a journey tracing the English, Spanish, and French Catholic stories to discover how America grew not just under God, but under Mary's mantle.