Related videos:
In their 2024 Christmas message, the Catholic bishops of Cuba invited Cubans to renew their faith and pray for the country, emphasizing a deep longing for freedom, reconciliation, and justice.
Through its official Facebook profile, the Diocese of Santa Clara shared a message addressing the challenging realities faced by the Cuban people and conveying a message of faith and hope.
On the feast of Our Lady of Hope, this December 18, the Catholic bishops of Cuba shared their traditional Christmas message titled "The dawn from on high will visit us," inspired by the Gospel of Luke 1:78.
With this appeal, the bishops aim to inspire Cubans to renew their faith and hope, encouraging them to reflect on the transformative power of the arrival of Jesus Christ in their personal, family, and social lives.
"In our hearts, there is a deep yearning for love and peace, for forgiveness and reconciliation, for truth and justice, for freedom and prosperity," the bishops stated, emphasizing that to fulfill these desires, it is essential to "allow oneself to be found by Jesus Christ."
This call to reflection and prayer serves as a starting point for facing everyday challenges with renewed spirit.
The text emphasizes that, amidst current difficulties, the bishops view Christmas as an opportunity to renew spirit and hope. They invited Cuban families to reflect on the values of solidarity and service, encouraging charitable and community actions that strengthen social bonds.
The text recalled the call made last April to pray for Cuba during all Masses, in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and in personal prayer: “Prayer has the power to transform hearts and change lives marked by death.”
The bishops also urged perseverance in this practice as an essential service that the Church can offer to the people, especially in these current times of crisis and scarcity.
This year, Christmas coincides with the beginning of a Jubilee Year called by Pope Francis under the theme "Pilgrims of Hope."
In this context, the bishops urged people to experience the power of divine mercy and to work together to build a nation where everyone lives as brothers.
"With Christmas approaching, as shepherds of God's people, we want to convey a message of closeness and encouragement to Cuban families in light of the difficult realities that many of them face each day," they stated, asking for the intercession of the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph to bring hope in the midst of darkness.
They concluded by wishing the Cuban people a "Merry Christmas," reminding that the birth of Jesus Christ brings hope to all nations, and reaffirmed their commitment to support the people through prayer and charitable works.
It is a tradition for the Cuban bishops to share a message of hope every December, providing spiritual comfort in a context marked by the worsening economic crisis in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Christmas Message from the Cuban Bishops and the Situation in Cuba
What is the main message of the Cuban bishops for Christmas 2024?
The main message from the Cuban bishops this Christmas 2024 is a call to renew faith and hope, emphasizing the Cuban people's yearning for freedom, reconciliation, and justice. They invite everyone to let themselves be found by Jesus Christ as a way to face daily challenges with love, peace, and solidarity.
What aspects do the Cuban bishops highlight regarding the situation in Cuba?
Cuban bishops emphasize the current challenges faced by the Cuban people, such as the economic crisis and lack of resources, and view Christmas as an opportunity to renew spirit and hope. They invite families to reflect on the values of solidarity and service, encouraging actions that strengthen social ties.
How have religious figures reacted to the crisis in Cuba?
Religious figures, such as the Archbishop of Santiago de Cuba and the priest Alberto Reyes, have shared messages of consolation, strength, and a call for change. They emphasize the importance of unity and perseverance in faith to overcome adversity, and openly criticize the regime for the crisis the country is facing.
What role does prayer play in the proposal of the Cuban bishops?
Prayer is regarded as a powerful tool for transforming hearts and realities. Cuban bishops urge the faithful to persevere in prayer as an essential service of the Church, especially during times of crisis and scarcity, to provide spiritual comfort and hope to the Cuban people.
Filed under: