The Archdiocese of Miami is set to host a significant celebration on Monday, September 8, 2025, honoring the Feast Day of Our Lady of Charity, patroness of Cuba. This year’s observance holds special importance as it also marks the 25th anniversary of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Charity in Coconut Grove being designated as a National Shrine by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2000. This dual commemoration underscores the enduring spiritual and cultural significance of the shrine for the Cuban community and the wider Miami landscape.
A Sacred Haven for Faith and Freedom
For decades, the National Shrine of Our Lady of Charity, often referred to as La Ermita de la Caridad, has served as a profound spiritual anchor for Cuban exiles and a symbol of unwavering faith, hope, and cultural identity. The history of the shrine is deeply intertwined with the Cuban diaspora’s journey to Miami. A replica of the revered statue of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, Cuba’s patroness, was smuggled out of Cuba and arrived in Miami on September 8, 1961. This arrival was met with immense devotion, with an estimated 30,000 exiled Cubans attending a Mass at Miami Stadium in her honor.
In 1966, Archbishop Coleman F. Carroll of Miami called upon the Cuban faithful to help build a shrine, donating land by Biscayne Bay, a symbolic connection to the waters that also bathe Cuba. Constructed through thousands of small contributions from the Cuban exile community, the shrine was dedicated in December 1973. Its architectural design is rich with symbolism: a conical structure representing the Virgin’s mantle, with six columns symbolizing Cuba’s traditional provinces. Beneath the altar lies a composite of earth, stone, and sand from Cuba, mixed with water brought by refugees who perished at sea, a poignant reminder of sacrifice and hope. The designation as a National Shrine in 2000 by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops recognized its importance as a national place of pilgrimage and devotion.
A Thematic Celebration of Guidance
This year’s festivities will embrace the theme, “María, Faro de la Libertad / Mary, Beacon of Freedom.” This theme powerfully highlights the perpetual role of Our Lady of Charity as a guiding light and source of solace for the Cuban people, both on the island and in exile, as well as for all who seek her intercession.
The day’s events are scheduled to commence at 6:00 p.m. with the praying of the rosary. This will be followed by a reverent procession at 7:00 p.m., carrying the image of Our Lady of Charity through the grounds. The celebration will culminate in a Solemn Mass at 8:00 p.m., presided over by His Excellency, Archbishop Thomas Wenski of Miami.
Archbishop Wenski, who has served the Archdiocese of Miami since 2010 and has a long history of dedicated service, including extensive work with the Cuban and Haitian communities, will lead the faithful in this significant liturgy. His leadership provides a vital connection to the archdiocese’s pastoral mission and its deep ties to the community’s faith traditions.
A Vibrant Community Event
The celebration is more than just a religious observance; it is a vibrant community event that resonates deeply within Miami. It serves as a reminder of the resilience of faith and culture in the face of adversity, a recurring theme in Miami news and community gatherings. The shrine itself remains a critical landmark, welcoming an average of 6,000 visitors each weekend throughout the year, and stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its faithful.
The National Shrine of Our Lady of Charity continues its mission to evangelize through welcome, prayer, and acts of mercy, keeping popular piety alive and praying for the freedom of Cuba and all nations that suffer from disrespect for human dignity. The 25th anniversary of its National Shrine designation, combined with the Feast Day celebration, offers an opportune moment for reflection, prayer, and renewed commitment to the values of faith, freedom, and community that Our Lady of Charity embodies. This event is expected to draw significant attention and participation, reflecting its trending status among significant local observances.
