Miami

Miami Catholics Prepare to Go to Cuba for Pope Francis Visit

Catholics preparing to go to Cuba to see Pope Francis speak next week gathered at a Miami Shores church Saturday to get everything in order.

The energy was high as the few dozen catholic pilgrims met at St. Martha’s Church for some last minute reminders and preparations.

“We know it’s going to be a moment of rejoicing and the holy spirit is going to be with us,” Ralph Gazitua said.

The few dozen Catholic pilgrims met at St. Martha’s Church for some last minute reminders and preparations. They picked up their paper work, team T-Shirts and matching sandals.

But there’s more going on with these men and woman than just a group of people trying to get a glance at Pope Francis. They have an aura around them that’s very evident. They’re heading to Cuba with a message.

“We have an opportunity to let the people know they’re not isolated," Gazitua said.

That not only did Pope Francis play a huge part in restoring relations between Cuba and the U.S., but that kind of support will continue.

"We’re here to try and help you and bring our faith to you and we’re very happy that you’re having more opportunities," Donna MacDonald said.

The pilgrimage not just about getting a chance to see and hear the Pope speak but about spreading the word of the church and part of that includes hundreds of rosaries that will be passed out to as many Cubans as they can.

The group leaves for Cuba next Friday. Miami Bishop Thomas Wenski wants to remind them that massage to spread deep down is simple.

“Bring a message of hope to Cuban people," he said.

And while they continue their preparations that you remember when the Pope speaks how important it will be. As Bishop Wenski said, for a long time faith was the only real freedom Cubans knew.

“The church among other institutions was the only one to maintain its independence," Wenski said. "So participating in these papal masses is experiencing air of freedom.”

Bishop Wenski wants to remind people they’re not tourists, they’re not there to be catered to, but rather Pilgrims to support the Cuban people.

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