On Tuesday night, a multitude of Cubans flocked to the National Sanctuary of San Lázaro in Santiago de Las Vegas, located in Havana's Boyeros municipality, to seek the miraculous saint's blessings and fulfill promises. This annual pilgrimage honors San Lázaro on December 17.
The customary pilgrimage to El Rincón, held on December 16, the eve of San Lázaro's feast day, draws believers from across the island who come with faith, hope, and gratitude.
Beyond Spirituality: A Collective Expression of Faith
The journey to El Rincón transcends mere religious practice; it represents a collective outpouring of popular faith, a fulfilled or pending promise, and a desperate plea in times of hardship.
Photos shared on social media by the Sanctuary itself depicted a dedicated crowd, many clad in purple and carrying lit candles and images of the saint as symbols of reverence and thanks.
Among the devotees, San Lázaro is often called “Old Lázaro” or “Babalú Ayé,” his name in the Santeria tradition.
Traditions Amid Health Challenges
This year's observance occurs against the backdrop of a concerning health crisis. Cuba is grappling with a surge of mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and chikungunya, causing public alarm.
The Ministry of Public Health recently reported 47 deaths from arboviruses and 1,417 new chikungunya cases. Deputy Minister Carilda Peña García has urged the public to seek early medical attention to prevent complications, particularly among children and vulnerable individuals.
In this context, San Lázaro, revered in both Catholic and Santeria beliefs as the patron of the sick, assumes an even more significant role. Many Cuban households have set up makeshift altars, and those unable to visit the Sanctuary find ways to spiritually connect with “Old Lázaro” from home.
Religious Duality: A Fusion of Catholic and Afro-Cuban Traditions
San Lázaro's figure holds a unique place in Cuban religious life. In Catholicism, he is honored as Lazarus of Bethany, a friend of Jesus and later a bishop.
However, in Afro-Cuban religious practices, devotion is directed towards a different figure: the impoverished, sore-covered Lazarus from a biblical parable, regarded as a representation of the orisha Babalú Ayé, protector of the sick.
This syncretism makes El Rincón a distinctive religious convergence point in Cuba, blending Catholic masses with Yoruba rituals, drums, and shared prayers among diverse beliefs.
The annual influx to El Rincón has made it the country's second most important sanctuary, surpassed only by the Basilica of El Cobre in Santiago de Cuba, which honors the Virgin of Charity, the national patroness.
Resilient Faith Amid Adversity
In the face of material shortages, health crises, and social disillusionment, the December 17 celebration remains a spiritual bastion for countless Cubans.
The veneration of San Lázaro, rich with syncretic and mystical elements, offers solace to those who have lost nearly everything but their faith.
Despite criticisms of the government's handling of the health crisis, this celebration provides Cubans an opportunity to renew their hope and seek comfort, health, and protection.
As every December, “Old Lázaro” has received a procession of promises, a multitude of pleas, and an endless wave of believers.
Frequently Asked Questions about San Lázaro's Celebration
What is the significance of the pilgrimage to El Rincón?
The pilgrimage to El Rincón is a powerful expression of faith, where Cubans fulfill promises, seek blessings, and offer prayers in times of need, blending Catholic and Afro-Cuban traditions.
How does San Lázaro's role change during health crises?
During health crises, San Lázaro's role as the patron of the sick becomes even more significant, offering hope and spiritual connection for those seeking healing and protection.