Cuban Catholics Celebrate Good Friday Amid Restrictions
Cuban Catholics Observe Good Friday Processions
In Cuba, Roman Catholics commemorated Good Friday with public processions, although restrictions were in place. In Havana, 150 faithful individuals were confined to the church parking lot, deviating from the usual traditions.
Pastor Denied Permission for Procession
Father Lester Zayas Diaz, the pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish of Vedado, expressed that the government prohibited his parish from holding the Holy Burial procession off church grounds due to his outspoken sermons addressing the challenges faced by Cubans. Despite this setback, the procession took place in the church parking lot.
Social Issues Addressed in Sermons
Zayas emphasized the importance of discussing Jesus Christ in the context of the struggles faced by the Cuban population, including children attending school without breakfast. His live-streamed sermons on Facebook have brought attention to the hardships endured by many in Cuba.
Political and Social Turmoil in Cuba
Cuba has been grappling with a series of crises, including blackouts, hyperinflation, and food shortages, leading to increased social tensions and unrest reminiscent of the post-revolution era. The Cuban government attributes the crisis to U.S. sanctions and subversion, while the U.S. denies these allegations.
Authorization of Religious Processions
Ariel Suarez, secretary of Cuba’s Bishop’s Conference, confirmed that all processions were officially authorized, except for the incident involving Father Zayas. Religious holidays and processions were previously banned in Cuba but have gradually been permitted since the late 1990s, following visits by various Popes.
