Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre (Nuestra Señora de la Caridad del Cobre) is one of the most beloved Marian devotions in the Catholic world and the national patroness of Cuba. I had a chance to be a part of a celebration of Cuban community in Chicago in St. Ita Church.
Find photos at the bottom of the article and learn more about Our Lady of Charity!
History
The Apparition (early 1600s):
According to tradition, around 1612–1613, three young men were out in a boat collecting salt near the Bay of Nipe, Cuba. They were caught in a storm and prayed for protection. Suddenly, the waters calmed, and they saw an image floating on a board. It was a small wooden statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, carrying the Christ Child in her arms and holding a golden cross. On the board was an inscription: “Yo soy la Virgen de la Caridad” (“I am the Virgin of Charity”).
The three men were known as “los tres Juanes” (the three Juans): Juan Moreno (a young enslaved African boy) and two Indigenous brothers, Juan and Rodrigo de Hoyos.
The Shrine in El Cobre:
The statue was placed in the mining town of El Cobre, near Santiago de Cuba, and venerated by locals. El Cobre was significant because it was a community of Spanish, Indigenous, and African people—Our Lady of Charity became a symbol uniting all groups.
Miracles and Devotion:
Many miracles were attributed to her intercession, and devotion spread quickly throughout the island. By the 18th century, pilgrimages were common, and the Virgin became closely tied with Cuban identity and struggles for freedom.
Feast Day
The Feast of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre is celebrated on September 8 each year. This day also coincides with the traditional Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, adding to its significance.
Modern History
Patroness of Cuba:
Pope Benedict XV declared her Patroness of Cuba in 1916, responding to petitions from veterans of Cuba’s War of Independence. This was a key moment, as she came to symbolize both religious devotion and Cuban national unity.
Papal Visits:
- Pope John Paul II (1998) visited her shrine, highlighting her role in the spiritual life of Cuba.
- Pope Benedict XVI (2012) came during the 400th anniversary of the finding of the statue.
- Pope Francis (2015) also prayed before her image, reinforcing her importance as a source of hope for Cubans
A Symbol of Unity and Hope:
Today, Our Lady of Charity (La Cachita, as Cubans affectionately call her) is a cultural and religious symbol of identity, especially for Cubans in the diaspora. Her image often appears in Cuban homes, churches, and even public spaces.
She represents freedom, hope, and maternal protection, especially for those who suffered under colonialism, slavery, and later political repression.
Her shrine in El Cobre remains a major pilgrimage site, attracting not only Catholics but also people of other faiths, including followers of Afro-Cuban religious traditions who also venerate her.
This article beautifully captures the deep spiritual and cultural significance of the Virgin of Charity in Cuba, blending history and devotion. The way she unites diverse communities and symbolizes hope is truly inspiring.
Thank you!