Havana: Marking 90 years of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and the Republic of Cuba, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, made a historic visit to Havana this week. His presence reaffirmed the Vatican’s enduring solidarity with the Cuban people and its unwavering commitment to promoting peace, justice, and the common good.

During a solemn Eucharistic celebration at Havana Cathedral, Archbishop Gallagher reflected on the enduring bond between the Holy See and Cuba. In his homily, he emphasized the principles of truth, justice, and peace as central to both the Church’s mission and the Vatican’s diplomatic vision. Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Pope Leo XIV, he invited the faithful to live out a vocation of unity — a unity that transcends ideology and is rooted in communion with the Pope and the bishops.

Gallagher recalled the legacy of the Holy See’s engagement with Cuba through decades of papal visits and diplomatic outreach, including landmark visits by Popes John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis. He particularly highlighted Pope Francis’ 2015 visit, which was marked by a spirit of reconciliation, fraternal dialogue, and hope for national healing.

A message from Pope Leo XIV was also delivered, extending greetings to the Cuban faithful and expressing the Holy Father’s prayers for the nation’s journey toward justice, reconciliation, and peace. During the Mass, Archbishop Gallagher invoked the intercession of Blessed Olallo Valdés, José López Piteira, and Venerable Félix Varela, Cuban figures known for their witness of faith and dedication to social transformation.

The Archbishop reflected on the motto of Pope Leo XIV, In illo uno unum (“In Him who is One, we are one”), affirming that unity in Christ must remain the Church’s guiding star. He warned against ideological distortions that fracture the body of Christ and urged the faithful to build their identity on Gospel truths rather than partisan agendas.

Referencing the day’s Gospel, which features Christ’s prayer for unity among His disciples, Gallagher acknowledged the challenges that confront the Church — from political tensions to economic hardship, migration, and cultural upheaval. Yet, he said, the Church continues its mission, navigating the tides of history under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the Petrine ministry.

The Archbishop also paid tribute to Cuba’s enduring devotion to the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre, who remains a symbol of hope and maternal protection for the nation, especially in moments of trial and uncertainty.

He emphasized that the Church’s mission is not only sacramental and spiritual but social and prophetic—casting the net of the Gospel into the world by promoting service, truth, and love. Authentic community, he said, is only possible when people set aside personal or political gain and recognize each other as children of God.

Archbishop Gallagher concluded his address by meditating on the role of charity, drawing upon Pope Leo XIII’s encyclical Rerum Novarum. Charity, he noted, is not merely about assisting the poor but about radically affirming human dignity and working for the common good in every sphere of life. The Church’s commitment to peace, justice, and truth must always be animated by the flame of love.

In closing, he reassured Cuban civil authorities and the faithful alike of the Holy See’s continued accompaniment. “The Church,” he said, “will remain by the side of the Cuban people—offering not only her prayers, but her presence, her voice, and her heart.”