This Monday, groups of devoted pilgrims embarked on a journey to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Charity in Santiago de Cuba. Their arrival came just before the September 8th celebration dedicated to Cuba's Patroness.
The Archdiocese of Santiago de Cuba shared images of the pilgrims' arrival, describing the event as a "distinctive procession" through the streets of El Cobre.
"This afternoon, the town of El Cobre witnessed a unique 'procession.' The small mission communities from each neighborhood brought their joy to the Mother's House," the institution stated.
These mission houses are small Catholic communities operating in various neighborhoods and regions, particularly in areas lacking a nearby church.
The pilgrimage takes place on the eve of September 8th, when El Cobre Shrine anticipates welcoming many faithful for the Virgin of Charity celebrations.
The shrine will remain open continuously from 6:00 p.m. on Monday until midnight on Tuesday. The schedule for the 8th includes a midnight mass led by the archbishop, another at 9:30 a.m., and a parish mass at 8:00 p.m.
At 9:00 p.m., a Marian music concert featuring the Orfeón Santiago and Vox Lucis choirs is also planned.
The celebrations will extend beyond El Cobre. The Archdiocese also announced a procession with the image of Our Lady of Charity on Tuesday, September 8th, in Santiago de Cuba city.
The procession will begin at 5:00 p.m., traveling from the Archdiocese headquarters to the Santiago de Cuba Cathedral, under the theme "Charity Unites Us."
These events mark the culmination of a preparation period that began on August 30th with the traditional nine-day novena dedicated to Our Lady of Charity, during which Catholic communities across the country were invited to participate in prayer and celebration.
The festival occurs amidst transportation challenges and the ongoing economic and energy crisis affecting the island. The Archdiocese acknowledged these difficulties when announcing preparations in El Cobre and committed to enhancing the reception for those who manage to reach the Shrine.
Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre was declared Cuba's Patroness in 1916 by Pope Benedict XV, and every September 8th, she draws faithful both within and outside the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Pilgrimage to El Cobre
Why do pilgrims travel to the El Cobre Shrine?
Pilgrims journey to the El Cobre Shrine to celebrate the feast day of Our Lady of Charity, the Patroness of Cuba, on September 8th, seeking spiritual solace and community engagement.
What events are planned for September 8th at the shrine?
The events include a midnight mass led by the archbishop, a mass at 9:30 a.m., a parish mass at 8:00 p.m., and a Marian music concert at 9:00 p.m.