Santiago de Cuba was once again filled with faith on September 8 with the traditional pilgrimage of the Virgin of Charity of Cobre, patroness of Cuba, which traveled through the historic center of the city to the Metropolitan Cathedral.
The march took place in an atmosphere of devotion, but was overshadowed by the harsh reality of power outages and the shortages facing the country.
Archbishop Dionisio García Ibáñez explained at the beginning that the procession was moved up out of concern that power outages would affect the return of the worshippers.
"We have moved up the procession precisely because of what happened last night, when the eastern provinces lost power and we didn't want you to arrive home late if the situation persisted," he said, referring to the massive blackout that left all of eastern Cuba in the dark this Sunday and forced the cancellation of the traditional youth pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of El Cobre.
"The heart must always be ready to welcome the Lord. The procession is not just a group of people walking aimlessly. It is about accompanying Jesus through our streets, and it is the Virgin who leads us to Him," affirmed the archbishop, who noted that this is "the oldest festival" of the city of Santiago.
The Archdiocese of Santiago shared images of a crowd of faithful following the image of Cachita amid songs, prayers, and cheers.
The march passed through iconic sites of the city, such as Plaza de Marte and Aguilera Street, where thousands of residents of Santiago gathered on both sides to see the Holy Image and shouted, “Long live the Virgin of Charity! Long live our Mother and Patroness!”
During the event, prayers were offered for children, adolescents, and youth, so they may grow up healthy and with values; for Cuban families, that they may remain united amid so many difficulties; and for the sick, the imprisoned, and the elderly, many of whom suffer from loneliness or abandonment.
Prayers were also said for the Cuban people in general, marked by scarcity, insecurity, and uncertainty.
The messages shared on social media by the Archdiocese included invocations to the Virgin to free Cuba from evil, protect homes, and bless the neighborhoods of the city, from San Pedrito and José Martí to Vista Alegre, Caney, and Baconao.
The march was joined by clergy, religious figures, and laypeople, showcasing the vibrant devotion of the people towards Cachita.
The procession of 2025 once again displayed the deep religiosity of Cubans and their ability to cling to faith as a refuge against the literal darkness of blackouts and widespread crisis.
Despite the suffocating reality, thousands of people from Santiago once again made the Virgin of Charity of Cobre a symbol of hope, unity, and spiritual resistance.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Pilgrimage of the Virgin of Charity of Copper in Santiago de Cuba
What is the pilgrimage of the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre?
The pilgrimage of the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre is a religious tradition in Santiago de Cuba, where thousands of worshippers walk through the historic center of the city to venerate the patroness of Cuba. This procession is an expression of faith and popular devotion, held every September 8th, and it symbolizes hope and unity for Cubans.
How did the massive blackout affect the celebration of the Virgin of Charity?
The massive blackout that affected eastern Cuba forced the procession to be moved up to avoid issues with the return of the parishioners. The lack of electricity also led to the cancellation of the traditional youth pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of El Cobre. Despite these challenges, devotion and religious fervor prevailed among the faithful.
Why is Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre important to Cubans?
La Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre is a religious and cultural symbol of great importance for Cubans. It represents unity, hope, and comfort during difficult times. Since her appearance in 1612, she has been venerated both in Cuba and in the diaspora, and is regarded as an emblem of national identity and cultural resilience.
How is the Day of the Virgin of Charity of Copper celebrated outside of Cuba?
Outside of Cuba, especially in places with significant Cuban communities like Miami and Madrid, the Day of the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre is celebrated with religious and cultural activities. These celebrations include masses, processions, and acts of solidarity, bringing together exiled Cubans around their patroness and strengthening their cultural and spiritual identity.
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