
The chargé d'affaires of the United States Embassy in Havana, Mike Hammer, visited the Church of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, located in Santiago de Cuba, in the eastern part of the country. In a reel posted on the embassy's Instagram account, Hammer is seen placing sunflowers at the altar of the church.
During his visit to the temple, Hammer expressed his respect and admiration for the devotion to the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre, patroness of Cuba. He emphasized the importance of religious freedom and the fundamental role that religion plays in people's lives.
The Church of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre is one of the most important shrines in Cuba and a pilgrimage site for hundreds of thousands of Cubans and tourists each year. The Virgin of Charity of El Cobre is a central figure in the culture and history of Cuba.
In his message, Hammer highlighted the importance of tolerance and mutual respect among different religious beliefs. He was impressed by the faith and devotion of the worshippers who visit the church, and reaffirmed the commitment of the United States Embassy to religious freedom in Cuba.
"Religion plays an important role in people's lives and it is essential to respect the beliefs of others," Hammer stated. His visit to the Church of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre reflects the embassy's interest in promoting interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding among peoples.