Cuba, a land of religious syncretism, hosts one of the most important celebrations in the country, which commemorates Saint Lazarus. This holiday, marked in the Catholic calendar on December 17, brings together crowds that gather at the National Sanctuary of San Lázaro, located in El Rincón, about 17 kilometers south of Havana.
The name “Lazarus,” which means “God has helped,” is associated with both the bishop dressed in purple and the beggar surrounded by dogs and sores, present in the Bible. Although the bishop was initially venerated in the “El Rincón” temple, popular devotion leaned towards the poor Lazarus. A result also of the strong bond between the Catholic faith and African traditions.
The National Sanctuary, inaugurated in February 1917, not only houses San Lázaro Obispo on its main altar, but also the oldest image of the temple, San Lázaro miraculous. This site acquires a special relevance due to religious syncretism in Cuba, where San Lázaro is also known as Babalú Ayé in the Yoruba religion. Both tributes are celebrated on the same day, fusing beliefs and paying tribute to the patron saint of the poor.
The corner of San Lázaro
Regarding the geographical location, the sanctuary stands in the heart of El Rincón, near the Guillermo Fernández Hernández Baquero Dermatological Hospital, associated with San Lázaro and his connection with leprosy patients.
The first priest to serve the church, Apolinar López, also dedicated decades to the care of these patients in the attached hospital, demonstrating the deep connection between faith and charity.
The color purple, linked to the Lazarus Bishop of the Catholic tradition, permeates the sanctuary: candles, bouquets of flowers and decorations shine in this hue. Jute fiber, preferred by devotees, is used to make rustic clothing in payment of promises.
The pilgrimages and promises of Cubans to San Lázaro
Devotion to Saint Lazarus goes beyond simple prayers; Devotees make long pilgrimages, drag shackles, carry heavy materials and offer a variety of offerings. From children’s baskets to Olympic athletes’ medals, the sanctuary is filled with expressions of gratitude and hope.
Behind the chapel, a fountain considered blessed offers water that parishioners drink or use to moisten parts of their body in search of healing. Typical offerings on home altars include roasted corn, roasted corn on the cob, and burnt bread. Also, coconut water, dry wine, garlic, fish, smoked jutía, coconuts, onion and corojo. In addition, animals such as a bearded goat, guinea fowl, rooster and dove are immolated.
Cultural and religious studies agree that devotion to San Lázaro occupies second place in Cuba, only surpassed by the festival in honor of the Virgin of Charity of Cobre. With a pilgrimage that exceeds 15,000 devotees annually, roads are closed and transportation is reinforced to reach Rincón, demonstrating the magnitude of the celebration.
Saint Lazarus Day in Cuba goes beyond a religious celebration. It is a meeting of traditions, a link between the Catholic and the Yoruba, an expression of solidarity and charity. The National Shrine becomes the epicenter of manifestations of faith, where devotion is intertwined with Cuban history and identity.
Prayer to Saint Lazarus
