Archbishop Dionisio García Ibáñez of Santiago de Cuba raised a poignant question this Sunday, connecting the devastation wrought by a recent cyclone, the scarcity of resources, and deaths linked to various viruses: What is the purpose of life amidst such hardships?
During the Sunday Mass at the Basilica Shrine of Our Lady of Charity in the town of El Cobre, Archbishop García addressed the multiple challenges faced by the eastern region, from the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa to the widespread limitations impacting entire families, prompting a reflection on life's meaning.
He pointed out that the eastern part of the country, historically less affected by cyclones, has endured severe phenomena in recent years, the effects of which will last "for months if not years."
Additionally, he mentioned the surge of viruses with names "difficult to pronounce," which have led to fatalities among individuals with preexisting conditions. "What virus is it? We don't know. Strange names," he remarked, highlighting the uncertainty among those affected.
The archbishop described the nation's hardships as "senseless" and emphasized that although the aim should be to live "in peace, in tranquility, in justice," this goal remains unachieved. "We haven't succeeded," he stated, posing direct questions: "Lord, is this life? Is this why you created us?"
In his homily, he juxtaposed human fragility and worldly injustices with the Christian promise of purpose and salvation, asserting that life should not be reduced to absurdity.
He revisited the biblical figure of King David as a symbol of unity and leadership, contrasting this image with the crucified Christ from the Gospel, where two attitudes are presented: the arrogance of the thief who insults and the humility of the one who asks to be remembered in the kingdom.
Monsignor García maintained that this duality reflects each individual's stance towards their own life, mistakes, and suffering. He recalled the day's Gospel, where Jesus assures the repentant thief, "Today you will be with me in paradise," a phrase he said gives meaning to Christian life even amidst adversity.
The archbishop urged maintaining hope despite the "temporary" challenges of the world, living with the conviction that "the word of God is fulfilled."
He concluded by asking for strength to face the current crisis without losing faith or clarity of judgment regarding the nation's situation.
A week ago, Archbishop García encouraged Cubans to strive for a more just and independent society, where personal effort and respect for others are the foundations of social life—a beautiful dream.
In his homily at the Basilica Shrine of Our Lady of Charity, the prelate reflected on the country's current state, reminding that faith should not be disconnected from engagement with everyday reality.
Voices within the Catholic Church, such as Camagüey priest Alberto Reyes, have raised concerns about the moral, economic, and human direction of the nation, marked by poverty, migration, and distrust in institutions.
This weekend, the Diocese of Holguín received a shipment of approximately 20.3 metric tons of non-perishable food from the Archdiocese of Miami, aimed at supporting those affected by Hurricane Melissa.
The Catholic Church, through Caritas, is channeling aid for Melissa's victims, distributing food and hygiene items. Furthermore, it is coordinating efforts to restore damage to churches and provide spiritual and material support to affected communities.
FAQs on the Church's Role Amidst Cuba's Current Crisis
What was Archbishop García's main message during his homily?
Archbishop García highlighted the senselessness of current hardships in Cuba and urged reflection on life's purpose amidst these challenges.
How is the Catholic Church assisting those affected by Hurricane Melissa?
The Church, through Caritas, is distributing food and hygiene items and coordinating efforts to restore damaged churches and offer spiritual and material support.
What moral issues did other Church leaders highlight regarding Cuba's current state?
Church leaders, like priest Alberto Reyes, have expressed concerns about the nation's moral, economic, and human direction, citing poverty, migration, and institutional distrust.