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Monsignor Dionisio García Ibáñez, the archbishop of Santiago de Cuba, said that the Cuban people “need a lot.”
On the occasion of the celebration on September 8th of the Feast of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, the patroness of Cuba, the religious leader emphasized that the Virgin of El Cobre represents the identity and hope of an entire people, in statements to the media Religión Digital.
"Our people need a lot. We are going through very difficult times, but we know that the only way to face life is to place ourselves in God's hands."
"Wherever there is a Cuban, whether on the island or abroad, it will be remembered that September 8 is the day of Our Lady of Charity," he added.
On August 30th, the preparatory novena for the feast began across the island. "Not only in Cuba, but in all those places and communities that want, love, remember, and venerate our patroness, the Virgin of Charity," he expressed.
"The Virgin of Charity is a symbol of Cuban identity because it represents us as a people. And as its name suggests, it reflects love," he stated.
The religious leader encouraged the faithful in Latin America and the Caribbean to join in prayer for peace, justice, and brotherhood in Cuba
“Let us remember his words: do what He tells you. Pray for our people and join us,” the archbishop emphasized.
The Archbishop of Santiago de Cuba often advocates for better living conditions for Cubans during his masses.
In May of last year, García urged Cubans to seek harmony and embrace different ways of thinking as a path to peace.
"With the potential that our people possess, let us learn to live in harmony, with one heart and one soul, despite our differing perspectives, and together find solutions that lead us to be born in peace, to work in peace, to eat in peace, and to die in peace," García expressed during a prayer of supplication, as reported by the Archdiocese of Santiago de Cuba.
En marzo del pasado año, durante la eucaristía del Domingo de Ramos, García he asked the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre for electricity, food, and freedom, algo que dijo que no es más que hacerse eco de las peticiones que los peregrinos hacen a la Patrona de Cuba.
"We want to live with greater ease, we want to try to live a normal life where everyone can pursue their plans and projects, where life is not a struggle and an endless toil,” said García Ibáñez at the feet of the Virgin.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Devotion to the Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre in Cuba
Why is the Virgin of Charity of Copper so important to Cubans?
The Virgin of Charity of El Cobre is considered a symbol of identity and hope for the Cuban people. She is the patroness of Cuba and represents love and unity among Cubans, both on the island and abroad. Her devotion transcends religious borders, uniting both Catholics and practitioners of Afro-Cuban religions.
What is the message from the Archbishop of Santiago de Cuba regarding the current situation in Cuba?
The Archbishop Dionisio García Ibáñez expressed that the Cuban people are going through very difficult times and need a lot of support. He emphasized the importance of prayer for peace, justice, and brotherhood in Cuba, encouraging the faithful to unite in prayer.
How is the feast of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre celebrated in Cuba?
The 8th of September is the day of the Virgin of Charity of Copper, celebrated with masses, processions, and various cultural expressions in Cuba. It is a date when thousands of pilgrims visit the sanctuary of El Cobre to pay tribute to the Virgin, give thanks for granted favors, and fulfill promises.
What role does the Catholic Church play in the social and political life of Cuba?
The Catholic Church in Cuba, represented by its bishops and religious leaders, often has a critical voice regarding the social and political situation on the island. The bishops have called for genuine dialogue and structural transformations to restore hope to the Cuban people. Additionally, they consistently urge prayer and the unity of the people.
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