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Mons. Dionisio García Ibáñez, Archbishop of Santiago de Cuba, recalled this Sunday that the has been a symbol of unity and comfort in the most tragic moments of the nation's history.
His message, shared on social media and on provincial radio, comes at a time when the country is facing one of the worst energy, economic, and migration crises in recent decades.
The prelate emphasized that the Virgin has accompanied the Cuban people from the wars of independence to the present day, amid shortages and difficulties.
"Approaching María was a sign of asking for God's protection, but also of the unity of a people seeking a common goal," he stated.
In his address, he urged the faithful to take a moment for family prayer and to reflect on the state of the country.
He remembered that the slogan "To Jesus through Mary, charity unites us" continues to be a path of encounter for many believers amid national uncertainty.
"It has also continued to support us in our fears when it seems that the Master has gone, so that we can uphold the 'yes' of the Annunciation, of the calling, of the first encounter," she emphasized.
The archbishop emphasized that the Virgin of Charity accompanies Cubans wherever they are in the world, both inside and outside the Island.
"There is no corner of the world where a Cuban has arrived without the presence of the image of the Virgin of Charity," he stated, referring to the thousands who have emigrated in recent years.
The message included a special blessing for families, the sick, the imprisoned, migrants, and all those who, despite the difficulties, maintain their faith and participate in the pilgrimages to the Sanctuary of Cobre during the festival on September 8th.
García, like other Catholics in Cuba, has shared messages at various times advocating for the unity of people as a way to confront the crisis the country is experiencing.
“Our people need a lot. We are going through very difficult times, but we know that the only way to face life is by placing ourselves in the hands of God,” he recently said.
"Wherever there is a Cuban, whether inside or outside the island, it will be remembered that September 8 is the day of the Virgen de la Caridad," he added.
The Virgin of Charity of Copper in present-day Cuba
What is the role of the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre in the history of Cuba?
The Virgin of Charity of El Cobre has been a symbol of unity and hope for the Cuban people throughout its history, from the wars of independence to the present day. It represents a spiritual connection for Cubans both on the island and abroad, especially during times of crisis, such as the current economic and social situation.
How is the day of the Virgin of Charity of Copper celebrated in Cuba and abroad?
September 8th is the day of the Virgin of Charity of Cobre, and it is celebrated with various religious and cultural activities both in Cuba and in Cuban communities abroad, such as in Miami and Madrid. These celebrations include masses, processions, and acts of devotion that unite Cubans around their patroness, a symbol of faith and freedom.
What message has the Archbishop of Santiago de Cuba conveyed regarding the current situation in the country?
Monseñor Dionisio García Ibáñez has expressed that Cuba is facing one of the worst energy, economic, and migration crises in recent decades. He has called for the unity of the Cuban people and for prayer, urging the faithful to seek divine protection and to work together for a better future.
How is the devotion to the Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre related to the political and social context of Cuba?
The devotion to the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre transcends the religious and has become a symbol of resistance and hope for Cubans. In the context of political restrictions and the shortage of freedoms on the island, the Virgin is viewed as a figure of spiritual support and an emblem of the struggle for freedom and dignity of the Cuban people.
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