This Tuesday, December 17, many Cubans living in South Florida fervently celebrate the feast day of Saint Lazarus with a special day of activities at El Rincón de San Lázaro, located in Hialeah, which this year commemorates its 50th anniversary.
The schedule for this Tuesday includes moments of prayer, religious ceremonies, and a procession that will gather numerous devotees.
From the early hours, El Rincón de San Lázaro has become the epicenter of faith and devotion, providing the faithful with the opportunity to leave offerings, flowers, and candles at the altar of the revered image.
Father Orlando Molina outlined the scheduled activities:
2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.: Prayer, blessing, and anointing of the sick.
6:00 p.m.: Holy Mass.
8:00 p.m.: Santa Procession to San Lázaro.
10:00 p.m: Raffle of images of San Lázaro.
Procession Route
The procession, one of the most anticipated moments, will begin at 8:00 p.m. at the church location, situated at 4th Avenue East and 2nd Street. The route will be as follows:
-Exit onto 4th Avenue.
-Transfer to 9th Street.
-Continuation to 1st Avenue.
-Completion on 29th Street.
"We also have Mass at 6 p.m. and the holy procession at 8 p.m.," explained Father Orlando Molina, inviting all the faithful to participate.
This year's event holds special significance, as El Rincón de San Lázaro celebrates its 50th anniversary since its founding, establishing itself as a symbol of faith and devotion for the Cuban community in South Florida.
This year, the Rincón de San Lázaro in Hialeah has once again been the epicenter of a festival of devotion that began on December 14 and will culminate on December 18. The event has included masses, processions, and cultural activities, reflecting the deep spiritual connection of the Cuban community with San Lázaro, known for his intercession on behalf of the sick and needy.
The festivities began on Saturday, December 14, with a solemn Mass and the traditional blessing of pets, a heartfelt activity that brought together faithful attendees accompanied by their animals. Sunday, December 15, continued with more liturgical celebrations, while on Monday, the 16th, the eve of the main day, the church remained open all night, allowing devotees to pay their respects and fulfill their promises.
San Lázaro is one of the most revered figures in Cuban popular devotion, encompassing both Catholic tradition and Cuban Santería.
In the Catholic religion, he is known as the friend of Jesus whom He resurrected, becoming a symbol of hope and miracles.
In Santería, San Lázaro is associated with Babalú Ayé, the orisha of diseases, health, and mercy, depicted as a humble old man accompanied by dogs and covered in sores.
Every December 17th, thousands of Cubans, both in Cuba and in exile, pay tribute to this miraculous saint in a celebration that reflects the faith, tradition, and spiritual unity of a community that has kept its devotion alive through generations.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Celebration of San Lázaro in South Florida
What is the significance of San Lázaro in the Cuban community of Florida?
San Lázaro is a figure of deep devotion for the Cuban community, both in the Catholic tradition and in Cuban santería. He is known for his intercession on behalf of the sick and needy. In South Florida, particularly in Hialeah, festivities are held that reflect the faith and spiritual connection of Cubans with this saint, reinforcing their cultural and religious ties in exile.
What activities take place in El Rincón de San Lázaro during its festival?
El Rincón de San Lázaro in Hialeah organizes a series of activities that include prayers, religious ceremonies, a procession, and a raffle of images of the saint. These activities aim to honor San Lázaro and allow the faithful to express their devotion through offerings, promises, and cultural acts that reinforce their identity and religious traditions.
How is devotion to San Lázaro expressed among Cubans in exile?
The devotion to San Lázaro among Cubans in exile is expressed through religious festivities, processions, and acts of faith that reflect their connection to their cultural and spiritual roots. In places like Hialeah, Cubans keep their traditions alive through celebrations that blend elements of Catholicism and santería, showcasing their faith and unity as a community.
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