A commemorative mass for the centenary of Celia Cruz's birth, the most universal Cuban singer, was held this Tuesday at the Parish of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, in the heart of Centro Habana, with the presence of artists, diplomats, and devotees who came to pay tribute to the Queen of Salsa.
The temple, a symbol of faith for Cubans both on the island and abroad, hosted a ceremony that few could have imagined possible: a tribute to the artist who had been censored for decades by the regime.
Among the attendees were the singer Haila Mompié, the musician Alain Pérez, the reggaeton artist Yomil Hidalgo, and the head of the diplomatic mission of the United States in Cuba, Mike Hammer, who participated in an event that combined faith, music, and memory, according to images shared by journalist Wilfredo Cancio.
"Glory to Celia, from Cuba and the world," wrote Cancio in his post, reflecting the sentiment of many Cubans who, whether in exile or within the country, continue to see her as a symbol of identity, resistance, and hope.
The mass, held under the theme "United for Celia," marked one of the most emotional moments in the international commemorations for the 100th anniversary of the birth of the performer of "La vida es un carnaval."
The independent media CubaNet also shared images from the event, highlighting the atmosphere of respect and joy that prevailed in the church.
The tribute was held peacefully, silently challenging the censorship that days earlier prevented the celebration of an artistic gala in honor of Celia, organized by Teatro El Público and the Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC).
That cancellation sparked a wave of indignation among artists and citizens. In response, the FAC carried out a symbolic action: an illuminated empty chair on stage, accompanied by the message “Celia lives”. Today, that phrase echoed among the walls of the Havana temple, transformed into a prayer and a memory.
Celia Cruz, who died in exile in 2003 without being able to return to her country, remains one of the most beloved figures among the Cuban people. Her voice, which filled the homes of several generations with rhythm and pride, transcended politics and borders. A hundred years after her birth, her “¡Azúcar!” continues to be a cry of national identity, a way of saying “we are here,” even amidst silence.
The mass on October 21 not only honored the artist but also the history of a country that bid her farewell without being able to embrace her. Among flowers, prayers, and songs, Celia returned — at least spiritually — to Havana, to the neighborhood where she was born, and to the land where her voice was prohibited but never forgotten.
The faces of the attendees reflected the excitement of a reunion that censorship could not prevent: Celia Cruz returned to Cuba, this time through the door of faith.
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