On Saturday, Father Rodhin A. Colomar took to social media to express his outrage over what he perceives as a violation of religious freedom in Santiago de Cuba. According to his post on Facebook, access to the Church of Santa María in the Reparto Veguita de Galo has been blocked by the installation of stages and tables, creating an atmosphere akin to a park or shopping center. This setup blatantly disregards the church’s role as a venue for weekend religious services and liturgies.
“This is utterly unacceptable and infringes on religious freedom rights,” the priest stated emphatically. One of the photos he shared even shows a public restroom positioned against the wall of the parish kitchen, highlighting the insensitivity of the arrangement.
Father Colomar pointed out that there was a feasible alternative: the Morro Road Park, situated about 400 meters away. He argued that this space could have accommodated the event without disrupting the church's operations. “This is harassment,” he declared, visibly upset by the encroachment on his church, which is known for its commendable humanitarian efforts within the community.
Despite the blockade, the parish community continued its charitable work undeterred. “Today, 258 free lunches were served at the Parish of Santa María,” Colomar announced on Facebook, adding, “Abundant blessings.”
In a previous incident last July, Colomar reported that his church was targeted in three separate attacks over as many months. These acts of vandalism occurred without any intervention or resolution from the authorities. The church was attacked at night, with stones breaking windows, dislodging a window frame, and damaging a side wall of the building. “They threw stones again with complete impunity,” the priest noted, explaining that the attack took place in the area where free purified water is provided to neighbors.
Religious Freedom and Community Impact in Santiago de Cuba
What prompted Father Colomar to speak out on social media?
Father Colomar spoke out on social media due to the blocking of access to his church by the installation of stages and tables, which he views as a violation of religious freedom.
What alternative location did Father Colomar suggest for the event setup?
He suggested the Morro Road Park, located about 400 meters away, as a suitable alternative that would not interfere with the church’s activities.
How did the parish community respond to the obstruction?
Despite the obstruction, the parish community continued its charitable efforts, serving 258 free lunches as planned.
Has the Church of Santa María faced similar issues before?
Yes, in the past, the church experienced three attacks in three months, with stones causing damage to the building, and the authorities failed to address the situation.