- Jose Tarano
The Virgin of La Caridad del Cobre: Symbol of Faith, Union and Cuban Culture
Our Lady of Charity (Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre), affectionately known as "Cachita," is a central figure in Cuban faith and culture. Venerated by Cubans on the island and in the diaspora, this representation of the Virgin Mary has transcended its religious significance to become a symbol of national identity and hope.
The Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre, affectionately known as ‘Cachita’ is a central figure in Cuban faith and culture that unites Cubans inseparably. Revered by Cubans on the island and in the diaspora, this representation of the Virgin Mary has transcended its religious significance to become a symbol of national identity and hope.
As is customary every year on September 8, thousands celebrate the Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre, patron saint of Cuba, at the Cobre shrines in Cuba, at the Ermita de la Caridad in Miami, and at many other parishes and places of worship, as many do at home.
It is worth noting that here in Miami:
‘Many thought this was a Cuban celebration, but it has become more and more international. People come here to this shrine because it is dedicated to the mother of Jesus, and the mother of Jesus is the mother of all,’ said Father Alberto Cutié, an Anglican-oriented priest.
The Apparition in Cuba
According to tradition, the image of Our Lady of Charity appeared in Nipe Bay in 1612. Three fishermen—two indigenous brothers named Rodrigo and Juan de Hoyos, and a young African slave named Juan Moreno—were in a small boat looking for salt when, in the midst of a storm, they saw an image of the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child floating on the waters. The image was on a board that bore the inscription "I am the Virgin of Charity."
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