Miami, Fla., Aug 2, 2006 / 22:00 pm
The Archdiocese of Miami has called on Cuban exiles to remain calm amidst news that Fidel Castro has undergone surgery and has temporarily handed over the reigns of the Cuban regime to his brother Raul.
In a statement, Archbishop John C. Favarola noted, "The free Cuban people are watching with caution and attention the events related to the government on the Island," and he added, "The Archdiocese of Miami shares this hour with our Cuban brothers and
sisters."
"We invite all to be calm, to exercise good judgment and to intensify their prayers for the good of Cuba so that these long suffering people may live in a society where all rights are respected," the archbishop said.
“We ask all parishes to include in the Prayer of the Faithful an intention for the welfare of the Cuban people," the statement said in conclusion. "May Our Lady of Charity unify all Cubans and protect them from evil so that freedom, justice, truth and peace may triumph."