A photo released on the Internet revealed a little-known fact: the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Francis Prevost, maintained direct contact with Harold Cepero Escalante, the activist who died alongside Oswaldo Payá in a suspicious traffic accident in 2012.
The image, shared by user Raquel Núñez Caro on Facebook, shows both of them alongside three other people in front of the Cathedral of Havana, capturing a moment of Christian brotherhood that takes on new significance today.
"This photo is indeed worth gold; it features two men, two Christians with a clear understanding of the importance of the Church's Social Doctrine: the new Pope and next to him Harold Cepero Escalante, who died in a 'strange' accident alongside Osvaldo Payá Sardiñas," said Raquel, emphasizing the symbolism of the meeting between the current Pontiff and the young activist.
Born in 1980, Cepero Escalante was a prominent figure in peaceful political activism in Cuba. His expulsion from the University of Camagüey in 2002 for his support of the Varela Project marked the beginning of an open persecution by the regime.
A member of the Christian Liberation Movement, Harold died at the age of 32 in a traffic accident in Granma while he was in a car with Payá. Although the government claims it was an accident, a 2015 report by the Human Rights Foundation states it was a deliberate act by the regime.
Harold's life was and is a shining example for all Cubans… his charity, his humility… his qualities as a friend are some of his virtues," Núñez wrote, reflecting on his ethical and spiritual legacy.
Pope Leo XIV, before being elected as the 267th successor of Saint Peter, visited Cuba on several occasions.
As the General Prior of the Augustinians and later as a bishop, he shared significant moments with representatives of the Cuban Church as well as with the faithful and communities in provinces such as Holguín, Las Tunas, Havana, and Ciego de Ávila.
It was during one of these trips that he met Harold Cepero, as confirmed by this new image. Although the date of the meeting has not been specified, it is likely that it took place in 2011.
The election of León XIV has been officially welcomed by the Cuban government, with explicit messages from Raúl Castro and Miguel Díaz-Canel calling for dialogue and strengthening relations between Havana and the Holy See, at a time when the country is experiencing a severe economic, social, and human rights crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pope Leo XIV and His Relationship with Cuba
Who was Harold Cepero and what was his relationship with Pope Leo XIV?
Harold Cepero was a prominent Cuban political activist who died in a traffic accident in 2012 alongside Oswaldo Payá. A recent photo revealed that the current Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Robert Francis Prevost, had direct contact with Cepero during his visits to Cuba, highlighting his involvement in social issues and human rights on the island.
What were the most significant visits of Pope Leo XIV to Cuba before his election?
Pope Leo XIV visited several regions of Cuba as a religious leader before his election, including Holguín, Las Tunas, Havana, and Ciego de Ávila. These visits reflect his connection with the Cuban Church and his interest in dialogue and Christian fraternity in challenging contexts.
What do the congratulatory messages from the Cuban government to Pope Leo XIV mean?
The congratulatory messages from the Cuban government to Pope Leo XIV aim to project an image of harmony and continuity in the relations between Cuba and the Holy See. Despite the political and social tensions on the island, Cuban leaders have publicly expressed their desire to strengthen dialogue and peace with the Vatican.
How has the relationship between the Catholic Church and Cuba influenced the current context?
The Catholic Church has played a significant role in Cuba, especially through historic papal visits and its role as a mediator in diplomatic processes. In the current context of economic and social crisis, the election of Pope Leo XIV represents an opportunity to renew dialogue and address human rights challenges on the island.
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