Prior to the celebration of Vespers, Pope Francis made an unscheduled visit to a Jesuit parish in Havana.
According to Vatican news blog, Il Sismografo, the Pope stopped at the Iglesia de Reina (Church of the Queen) on his way to yesterday’s celebration of Vespers at the Cathedral of Havana.
The parish, also known as the Church of the Sacred Heart and St. Ignatius of Loyola, is the home of the Society of Jesus in Cuba. Currently, there are 24 Jesuits in the island who serve in 8 parishes and 2 spiritual exercise houses. They also serve in the Loyola network, a group of 5 centers that promote human rights, inspired by the faith and teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola.
Upon his arrival, the Pope was welcomed by three children who offered him a bouquet of white roses. The Pope greeted his fellow Jesuit brothers, who were visibly moved by the Holy Father’s impromptu visit.
After spending a few brief moments with them, the Pope returned to the popemobile, making his way to the Cathedral of Havana for the celebration of Vespers with priests, religious men & women and seminarians of the diocese.(J.A.E.)
