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The Vatican Secretary of State, Paul Richard Gallagher, affirmed on Wednesday that "Cuba has a special place in the heart of the Holy Father," referring to Pope Leo XIV's affection for the people of the island.
The statement was made during a Thanksgiving mass held in Havana, to mark the beginning of the papacy of the current Pope, as reported by the official agency Prensa Latina.
The religious ceremony, presided over by Gallagher, was attended by Cuban Vice President Salvador Valdés Mesa, Chancellor Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, and other government and ecclesiastical authorities.
In his homily, the high representative of the Holy See highlighted the deep ties between Cuba and the Vatican throughout 90 years of diplomatic relations.
Gallagher emphasized that the Holy See has always felt the closeness of the Cuban people and recalled the visits to the island by the last three popes —John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis— as a symbol of a strong relationship built on dialogue, faith, and cooperation.
"The Cuban people will be able to count on the Holy See for the common good of all Cubans," affirmed the prelate, who urged living in communion within a united Church and in a reconciled world, following the principles of peace, justice, and truth promoted by Leon XIV.
As part of the official agenda, Gallagher and the Cuban chancellor unveiled a commemorative stamp marking the 90th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the Holy See, featuring the flags of both states alongside images of the Cathedral of Havana and St. Peter's Basilica.
The Cuban regime and the Vatican have recently engaged in talks regarding the release of political prisoners, which resulted in a partially fulfilled agreement by Havana.
Following the election of the new pope, it was revealed that León XIV, formerly Robert Francis Prevost, had direct contact with Harold Cepero Escalante, the activist who died alongside Oswaldo Payá in a controversial car 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, during a moment of Christian brotherhood that takes on new meaning today.
Frequently Asked Questions about Relations between Cuba and the Vatican
What is the current relationship between Cuba and the Vatican?
The current relationship between Cuba and the Vatican has been marked by constructive dialogue and mutual respect, solidifying over 90 years of diplomatic relations. The Holy See has maintained a symbolic and personal closeness with the Cuban people, as demonstrated by the visits of the recent pontiffs and the recent presence of the Vatican's Secretary of State in Cuba.
What role has the Catholic Church played in the current situation in Cuba?
The Catholic Church has acted as a mediator in times of crisis in Cuba, promoting reconciliation and dialogue, and facilitating processes such as the release of prisoners. Pope Leo XIV and his predecessor, Francis, have expressed concern for the socioeconomic situation of the island and have called for adherence to the principles of peace, justice, and truth.
How has Pope Leo XIV influenced the relations between Cuba and the Vatican?
Pope Leo XIV has strengthened the relationship between Cuba and the Vatican with a close stance towards the Cuban people, based on his Havana heritage and his understanding of the Cuban reality. He has expressed his support for the Church in Cuba and his desire to spiritually accompany the Cuban people throughout his papacy.
What has been the Cuban government's response to the new Pope Leo XIV?
The Cuban government has expressed its desire to strengthen relations with the Vatican under the papacy of Pope Leo XIV, sending messages of congratulations and commitment to dialogue and peace. This stance aims to project an image of continuity and stability in its relations with the Holy See.
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