Bishops of Cuba embark on ad limina pilgrimage to the Vatican to strengthen ties with Pope Leo XIV and share experiences of local communities

Later this month, Cuba’s Catholic bishops are heading to Rome for a significant spiritual journey.

From February 16 to 20, they will meet with Vatican officials, including Pope Leo XIV, to report on the state of the dioceses across the island.

This pilgrimage, known as the ad limina visit, is a tradition that ensures bishops maintain a close connection with the Pope and the wider Church.

In a statement to be read at Masses this weekend, the bishops described their upcoming trip as a moment to “pray in the four major basilicas, meet the Holy Father for the first time, and share the vicissitudes, sorrows, joys, and hopes of the Church in Cuba.”

What Is an Ad Limina Visit?

The ad limina visit is not just ceremonial—it’s a requirement under Canon Law that bishops make the pilgrimage every five years.

During the visit, they personally meet with the Pope, present detailed reports on their dioceses, and pray at the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul in Rome.

According to the Cuban Conference of Catholic Bishops (COCC), the meeting with Pope Leo XIV is scheduled for the morning of Friday, February 20.

The bishops expressed excitement about the encounter, noting that the Pope is already familiar with Cuba, having visited the country twice during his tenure as superior general of the Augustinian Fathers.

Church’s Humanitarian Role Amid Challenges

This Vatican trip comes at a critical time for the Church in Cuba.

Following Hurricane Melissa, the Catholic Church has become the primary distributor of U.S. humanitarian aid, operating independently of the Cuban government.

In recent weeks, several bishops have also held discussions with Mike Hammer, the U.S. Embassy’s chargé d’affaires in Havana, reflecting the Church’s role in both spiritual and social support.

On February 1, Pope Leo XIV publicly voiced concern about “reports of increased tensions between Cuba and the United States,” emphasizing the importance of dialogue and urging leaders to prevent any actions that might worsen the struggles of the Cuban people.

A Prayerful Journey

Ahead of their trip, the bishops have asked Cuban faithful to pray for their mission, sharing a prayer on their website.

The prayer asks Jesus to guide the bishops in faith, communion, and service, helping them bring renewed energy and pastoral care back to their communities.

It also invokes the Virgin Mary, Mother of Charity, to protect and inspire them during their pilgrimage.

The prayer highlights the bishops’ dedication to their communities, asking that they carry the joys, sorrows, and hopes of the Church in Cuba as they meet with the Pope and his collaborators.

What’s Next?

The ad limina visit will provide Cuban bishops with guidance from the Vatican and a chance to strengthen ties with Pope Leo XIV.

Upon returning, they are expected to bring renewed energy and pastoral insight to their dioceses, addressing both spiritual and social challenges facing the Cuban Church.

Meanwhile, their work distributing humanitarian aid and engaging with international partners will continue to be crucial for communities still recovering from Hurricane Melissa.

Summary

Cuba’s Catholic bishops are traveling to Rome from February 16–20 for their ad limina visit, a five-yearly pilgrimage to meet the Pope and report on their dioceses.

The journey comes amid ongoing social and humanitarian challenges, including their role in distributing U.S. aid after Hurricane Melissa.

The bishops will pray at the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul, meet Pope Leo XIV, and return to Cuba with renewed spiritual guidance and pastoral mission.

Their trip underscores the Church’s enduring role in supporting faith and social welfare in Cuba.