On Monday night, thousands of Cubans gathered at the National Sanctuary of Saint Lazarus located in the Havana suburb of Santiago de Las Vegas. They came to fulfill promises and seek blessings from the revered saint, whose feast day is celebrated on December 17th.
Photos shared on the Sanctuary's Facebook page depicted a vast crowd of devotees, many holding candles or images of Saint Lazarus, as they made their way to the altar. The images also revealed instances where rescuers had to assist individuals who had fainted due to the overwhelming atmosphere.
Another set of photos, published by the news site La Tijera, showcased the deep faith that Saint Lazarus inspires among Cubans, second only to the devotion to Our Lady of Charity, Cuba's Patron Saint.
As is tradition, on December 16, a steady stream of people visited the National Sanctuary at El Rincón in the Boyeros district, bringing offerings to fulfill promises or to request miracles. Within the Catholic doctrine, Lazarus of Bethany, a friend of Jesus and later a bishop, is venerated. Meanwhile, practitioners of Afro-Cuban religions worship what they perceive as a representation of the orisha Babalú Ayé. In this context, the veneration is directed towards the figure of poor Lazarus, a character in a biblical parable, which has also been embraced in a form of popular Catholicism.
The annual pilgrimage to El Rincón solidifies its status as the second most important Catholic shrine in Cuba, surpassed only by the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Charity in El Cobre, Santiago de Cuba. Believers traditionally leave offerings at the altar, such as sweets, fruits, and clothes, in addition to lighting numerous candles. Some devotees practice acts of self-flagellation, enduring long journeys while carrying heavy stones or dragging thick chains.
The celebration reaches its peak on Tuesday, December 17, with thousands participating in masses and rituals dedicated to Saint Lazarus, reinforcing its significance as one of the island's most enduring traditions.
Understanding the Devotion to Saint Lazarus in Cuba
Who is Saint Lazarus, and why is he important in Cuba?
Saint Lazarus is venerated in Cuba both as a Catholic saint, Lazarus of Bethany, and as a representation of the orisha Babalú Ayé in Afro-Cuban religions. His significance stems from his association with healing and miracles.
What are common practices during the pilgrimage to El Rincón?
Pilgrims often bring offerings such as sweets, fruits, and candles. Some engage in self-flagellation, carrying heavy stones or dragging chains as acts of devotion and penance.
How does the devotion to Saint Lazarus compare to other religious devotions in Cuba?
Devotion to Saint Lazarus is one of the most significant in Cuba, second only to the veneration of Our Lady of Charity, the country's Patron Saint. Both figures inspire deep faith and large pilgrimages.