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Priest Rodhin A. Colomar denounced on Saturday on his social media what he described as an infringement on religious freedom in Santiago de Cuba.
According to what was explained on Facebook, access to the Santa María Church, located in the Reparto Veguita de Galo, has been closed, and platforms and tables have been set up as if it were a park or a shopping center, overlooking the fact that liturgies and religious services are held in that space on weekends.
"It is completely unacceptable and violates the rights of religious freedom," the priest wrote.
In one of the published images, a public restroom can even be seen installed against the wall of the parish kitchen.
Colomar stated that there was a viable alternative: the Morro road park, located about 400 meters away, a space that in his opinion could have been used to hold the activity without affecting the temple.
"This is harassment," declared the priest, visibly angered by the assault on his church, which regularly engages in a commendable humanitarian effort with the community.
Despite the blockade, the parish community did not stop.
“258 free lunches were offered today at the Santa María Parish,” it was also reported on Facebook.
"Abundant blessings," the message concluded.
In July, Colomar reported that his church suffered three attacks in three months, an event that occurred with complete impunity without authorities providing a solution.
The temple was attacked in the early hours with stones that shattered windows, moved the frame of a window, and caused damage to a side wall of the building.
"They threw stones again with total impunity," wrote the priest, who explained that the aggression occurred right in the area where free purified water is provided to the neighbors.
Impact and Challenges of Religious Freedom in Santiago de Cuba
What does the priest Rodhin A. Colomar denounce in Santiago de Cuba?
Father Rodhin A. Colomar denounces an infringement on religious freedom in Santiago de Cuba, where access to the Santa María Church has been closed and structures have been installed that obstruct religious activities. This act is seen as a harassment of the religious community that carries out significant humanitarian work in the area.
What is the impact of the attacks on churches in Santiago de Cuba?
The attacks on churches in Santiago de Cuba, such as those experienced by the Misión Organizada San Pedro Apóstol, reflect a growing insecurity and violence against religious spaces. These attacks not only damage the infrastructure but also impact communities that rely on the social and spiritual assistance provided by these temples amid the country's economic crisis.
How has the parish community responded to the blockades and attacks in Santiago de Cuba?
Despite the blockades and attacks, the parish community has continued its humanitarian and social work. The Santa María Parish has continued to provide free lunches to hundreds of people in need, demonstrating its commitment to the community despite the challenges.
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