A Cuban family, dressed in yellow, visited the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Charity in Santiago de Cuba to fulfill a promise made to the holy image, praying for a successful exit from the country. Betsy González Tallo shared a video on Facebook explaining that a year and a half ago, her mother and grandmother promised the Virgin they would let their hair grow and offer it as a tribute when she returned to Cuba.
According to González, the journey was exhausting, yet fulfilling to honor the promise, leave the hair to the Virgin, "and pray for all the people who, like me, leave with a dream." "It's tough, but you do it for the family's well-being," she noted.
"Unfortunately, I had to leave my country," lamented the young woman, sorrowful for being separated from her family. "And it will be this way until we can be together again."
González urged people not to stop fighting to achieve their dreams and mentioned that she prayed to the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre for all those who have set leaving Cuba as one of their main goals in life. "This video is for everyone who has family far away, and who, like me, wish to see them," she emphasized.
At the feet of Our Lady of Charity, Cubans from all over come to fulfill promises and pray for loved ones. Recently, Omar Quintero, known as the "Payer of Promises," once again demonstrated his devotion to the Patroness of Cuba, showcasing unwavering determination and deep love for his son by once more making the pilgrimage from Havana to El Cobre in Santiago de Cuba.
In 2022, Quintero gained widespread recognition in the country for his vow to walk from Havana to El Cobre to ask the saint to save his cancer-stricken son. "The Payer of Promises does it again. A day before Mother’s Day, Omar Quintero arrived at El Cobre," reported someone identified as Sin FiltRo con Davide Cuttica on Facebook.
FAQs about Pilgrimages and Promises to Our Lady of Charity
In light of the recent story about Betsy González Tallo and Omar Quintero, here are some frequently asked questions about the tradition of making promises to Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre.
Why do people make promises to Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre?
Devotees make promises to Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre as a way to seek her intercession in difficult times, such as illness, personal struggles, or major life changes. Fulfilling these promises is seen as an act of gratitude and faith.
What kind of promises do people typically make?
Promises can vary widely, from physical acts like pilgrimage or growing one's hair, to material offerings or acts of service. The nature of the promise often reflects the personal devotion and circumstances of the individual.
How significant is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Charity in Cuban culture?
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre is a major religious and cultural landmark in Cuba. It is dedicated to the Virgin of Charity, who is considered the patroness of Cuba. The site attracts pilgrims from across the country and around the world.