Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre
One of the most beautiful religious celebrations in Cuba is the Feast of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, Patroness of Cuba.
In Cuba, there is a date no one can forget: September 8, when Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, Patroness of Cuba, draws near to her people.
For nine days, the parishes of our missions live to the rhythm of vigils and confessions.
Through the streets, mission groups are sent out, house to house, to invite everyone to the celebration.
In every home, the Virgin is present — in a medal, a small statue, or an image.
And for those who cannot come, their prayers rise with ours, united in this great feast for the nation.
Then comes the long-awaited day.
The churches, adorned with flowers, resound with songs prepared for weeks.
The statue of Our Lady of Charity finally comes out, carried high in the arms of the faithful, and an entire people sets out on pilgrimage.
The streets become a procession: families, children, the elderly, fervent believers, and simple onlookers — all walk behind her.
Even those who never enter the church bow as she passes.
For here, devotion knows no boundaries: she is Mother to all, Catholics and non-Catholics alike.
We ourselves, coming from afar, are deeply moved.
Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre dwells in the prayers and hopes of the Cuban people, accompanying their history marked by wounds and struggle.
As we walk behind her, we feel the fervent faith of a people worn and weary, yet who raise their prayers to the Virgin with unshakable hope, certain that she can do all things.
Yes, Our Lady of Charity watches over Cuba, and in her radiant wake, we entrust with them the future of this island with a great and generous heart.