From the early hours of Monday, Cuban devotees began gathering at the seawall of the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity in Miami to pay homage to the image of Cuba's Patroness ahead of her feast day celebrated on September 8.
In a Facebook post, the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity announced that the veneration started "very early" on Monday, extending an invitation to the faithful to visit the sanctuary on this day preceding the main celebration.
"The veneration of the Holy Image of Our Lady of Charity started very early today from the seawall of the Shrine, on the eve of her feast. We look forward to seeing you!" the religious institution stated.
This day acts as a prelude to the major festivities planned for Tuesday, September 8, when the traditional Solemn Mass in honor of Our Lady of Charity will take place.
According to the schedule released by the Shrine, the main events will be held at the Miami-Dade Fair & Expo Center, located at 10901 SW 24 St., Miami.
Doors will open to the public at 5:00 p.m., with a prayer for Cuba with the Virgin at the Cuban Memorial scheduled for 5:45 p.m.
The Holy Rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m., followed by the procession of the Apostolic Movements of the Archdiocese of Miami half an hour later.
At 7:30 p.m., a significant moment will occur with the entrance procession of the Blessed Image of Our Lady of Charity.
The day will conclude at 8:00 p.m. with the Solemn Mass, presided over by Archbishop Thomas Wenski of Miami.
The celebration in Miami holds a deep historical connection to the Cuban exile community: the image of Our Lady of Charity now venerated at the Shrine arrived in Miami on September 8, 1961, brought over by Luis Gutiérrez Areces in a suitcase.
That same day, a massive mass was held at the Miami Stadium with over 30,000 Cubans in attendance.
Meanwhile, festivities for the Patroness are also underway in Cuba.
Starting August 30, nine days of preparation for the September 8 festivity began with activities in churches and communities and a special program at the National Shrine of El Cobre in Santiago de Cuba.
The date also comes amid a severe economic and social crisis.
As the celebration approaches, Cuban priest Alberto Reyes offered a prayer to the Virgin focusing on the country's struggles, mentioning poverty, emigration, family separation, and repression.
"In the midst of so much repression, help us maintain the courage to speak the truth," he prayed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Our Lady of Charity Celebrations
When does the Solemn Mass for Our Lady of Charity take place?
The Solemn Mass in honor of Our Lady of Charity is scheduled for September 8.
Where are the main celebrations held in Miami?
The primary festivities are held at the Miami-Dade Fair & Expo Center.
What historical significance does Our Lady of Charity hold for Cuban exiles?
The image of Our Lady of Charity was brought to Miami by Cuban exiles on September 8, 1961, symbolizing hope and unity.