Members of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, the chapel’s caretakers the Guadalupanas and members of community historical group Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces take part in the official photo session on May 12, 2026. Photos by Ruth Eaton © 2026. SEE MORE PHOTOS BELOW.
FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors signed a proclamation on May 12, 2026 celebrating 100th anniversary of Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel in Flagstaff.
“WHEREAS, in May of 1925, the Hispanic families of Flagstaff began raising the first funds for a church of their own, and by September 25, 1925, the work commenced on the foundation—an effort that exhausted the full $500 then available but strengthened the community’s resolve; and …” members of the chapel’s caretakers the Guadalupanas began reading during the opening of the proclamation ceremony.
The county stated in its agenda as the reason for the proclamation:
“Since its dedication on December 5, 1926, and the inaugural Mass on December 12, 1926, this sacred site has served as the spiritual and cultural heart of the Southside neighborhoods/Barrios. The chapel has remained a steadfast anchor for Flagstaff’s Mexican and Basque communities, preserving Catholic heritage through its school, its status on the National Register of Historic Places, and the work of the Galupanas—devoted caretakers who raise funds for altar coverings, monthly chapel flowers, and the preservation of the large church painting at Our Lady of Guadalupe—as well as the efforts of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, who honor the pioneers who built this city. The community of Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel continues to embody the enduring spirit of faith, unity, service, and cultural pride that established this church a century ago; and as we approach its Centennial Anniversary, we honor 100 years of devotion, hard work, and the distinctive Malapai architecture that stands as a testament to our community’s history and Catholic traditions, ensuring they endure for generations to come.”
Click here to see the video of the presentation which begins at the 11:30-minute mark.
A celebration of the 100th anniversary will begin with a Mass at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 16 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel, 224 S. Kendrick, Flagstaff.
The event will be followed by music, dancing, food and other entertainment, cultural lectures and other events.
Copies of a magazine produced by the Arizona Daily Sun will be available during the event.
