Young Cubans and Americans are working together to restore the steps leading to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre in Santiago de Cuba, one of the most significant Catholic temples in the nation. According to the Archdiocese of Santiago de Cuba on Facebook, Catholics from the United States, along with parishioners from El Cobre, are restoring the perimeter fence, the first greeting visitors receive upon arriving at this sacred site.
The shared images show the repair and cleaning of the railings marking the start of the steps, where many devotees gather every September 8 to fulfill promises made to the Holy Mother. The photo gallery also highlights young members of the Effeta and Emmaus lay movements in El Cobre polishing a bronze Marian shield, part of the perimeter fence.
The social media post also notes ongoing efforts to replace internal lighting at the Sanctuary, emphasizing that these activities do not affect the temple's hours, which remain open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. During Sunday’s Eucharist, Archbishop Dionisio García Ibáñez of Santiago de Cuba urged Cubans to seek harmony and accept different ways of thinking as a path to peace.
Under the gaze of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre during a supplication prayer, García stated, "With the potential our people have, let us learn to live in harmony, with one heart and one soul, with different ways of thinking, and together, find solutions that lead us to be born in peace, work in peace, eat in peace, and die in peace."
In his prayer, García thanked "the children who lovingly care for the elderly at home; those who, from afar, support their families and friends; neighbors who support each other in times of sorrow and joy; and many others who selflessly serve their fellow men," referring to the current issue of youth migration leaving behind elderly relatives.
Additionally, from the steps of the Catholic temple, Cuban activists have denounced the regime's injustices. "Today is March 24, 2024, in support of political prisoners for Cuba's freedom... Homeland, life, and freedom," said Yerismar Velázquez Cruz last April in a live broadcast on social media, wearing a white t-shirt with messages like "Homeland and Life" and "Freedom for Cuba," among others.
Subsequently, the nurse was detained by State Security for demonstrating at the El Cobre Sanctuary in favor of the freedom of political prisoners in Cuba.
Restoration Efforts and Political Protests at El Cobre Sanctuary
Below are some frequently asked questions about the restoration efforts and political protests at the El Cobre Sanctuary in Santiago de Cuba.
What is the significance of the El Cobre Sanctuary?
The El Cobre Sanctuary is one of the most important Catholic temples in Cuba, dedicated to Our Lady of Charity, the patroness of Cuba. It is a significant pilgrimage site for many devout Catholics.
Who is involved in the restoration efforts at the sanctuary?
The restoration efforts are being carried out by young Catholics from both the United States and Cuba, including members of the Effeta and Emmaus lay movements in El Cobre.
What kind of work is being done in the restoration project?
The project includes the repair and cleaning of the perimeter fence, the replacement of internal lighting, and the polishing of a bronze Marian shield among other tasks.
Why was Yerismar Velázquez Cruz detained?
Yerismar Velázquez Cruz was detained by State Security for his public demonstration at the El Cobre Sanctuary, where he expressed support for the freedom of political prisoners in Cuba.