With visit to Cuba’s Madonna, New York cardinal begins six-day trip

In his role as a high-ranking U.S. church leader visiting during a time of tense political waters in his country toward Cuba, Cardinal Timothy Dolan offered the only things he could to those gathered for Mass there that day: his presence, his gratitude, solidarity as a Christian and trust that God, along with Jesus and Mary, is with them.

Pope, archbishop express condolences over Fidel Castro’s death

“His death provokes many emotions — both in and outside the island. Nevertheless, beyond all possible emotions, the passing of this figure should lead us to invoke the patroness of Cuba, the Virgin of Charity, asking for peace for Cuba and its people,” Archbishop Thomas Wenski said.