The National Shrine of Our Lady of Charity in Miami is inviting Cuban exiles to a special mass this Wednesday, May 20th at 8:00 PM. This event marks the 124th anniversary of the establishment of the Republic of Cuba and prays for the island's anticipated liberation.
Held at the shrine's location at 3609 S Miami Ave, Miami, Florida, the ceremony is open to all faithful who wish to join in prayer.
The shrine's official announcement calls for gathering "to thank God for our homeland and to fervently pray for Cuba's impending freedom."
"As we commemorate 124 years since the birth of the Republic, let's raise our prayers for a Cuba restored with justice, peace, and prosperity for all its people," reads the call published on the Ermita's social media platforms.
On May 20, 1902, the Republic of Cuba was formally declared when Tomás Estrada Palma became the first president, and the Cuban flag was hoisted at Havana's Morro Fortress, ending U.S. military occupation.
In Miami's exile community, this date is celebrated as the birth of the free republic and is the most symbolic civic event in the Cuban calendar outside the island.
Future Hopes for Cuba's Freedom
In 2026, the commemoration is charged with unusual political anticipation. Miami's Mayor, Eileen Higgins, has confirmed that the city has a contingency plan involving police, fire, and paramedic services in anticipation of possible mass celebrations when Cuba gains its freedom.
Diego Suárez, a prominent exile leader and co-founder of the Cuban American National Foundation, expressed his strong conviction that Cuba will be free by 2026.
On March 2nd, the Assembly of the Cuban Resistance and Steps for Change signed the "Liberation Agreement" in Miami. This plan outlines a three-phase roadmap: release of political prisoners, stabilization, and democratization with free elections for Cuba.
The Shrine as a Beacon of Hope
The Ermita de la Caridad stands as the foremost religious and cultural symbol of Cuban exile in the United States.
Inaugurated on December 2, 1973, it was built overlooking Biscayne Bay with a symbolic orientation towards Cuba. It contains soil from Cuba's six provinces and water from a raft where 15 Cubans lost their lives.
In 2000, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops recognized it as a National Shrine, emblematic of the Cuban exile experience.
The shrine has been a frequent site for masses, vigils, and processions for Cuba on key dates such as July 11, September 8—the day of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, Cuba's patroness—and May 20 itself.
This year's call concludes with the exiles' heartfelt plea: "Our Lady of Charity, save Cuba soon!"
Key Questions About Cuba's Future
What is the significance of May 20 for Cuban exiles?
May 20 marks the anniversary of the Republic of Cuba's founding in 1902, symbolizing the birth of a free republic. It is a significant day for Cuban exiles, representing hope and the potential for a future free Cuba.
What is the "Liberation Agreement" signed in Miami?
The "Liberation Agreement," signed by the Assembly of the Cuban Resistance and Steps for Change, outlines a three-phase roadmap for Cuba's future: the release of political prisoners, stabilization, and democratization with free elections.