On his first day in Cuba, Pope Francis held mass at Havana’s Revolution Square near a massive image of the revolutionary leader Che Guevara. He spoke about the recent reconciliation between Cuba and the United States, and the lifting of certain political and economic restrictions that Cuban people have faced at the hands of its leaders and those in the United States.
He warned the Cuban people not to succumb to “seductive” offers that will now come their way as Cuban and American financial interests become more aligned, and political restrictions are lifted. “Do not neglect (your brothers and sisters) for plans which can be seductive, but are unconcerned about the face of the person behind you,” he said.
Afterwards, Pope Francis and Fidel Castro met for the first time since the Pope orchestrated the historic lifting of U.S. restrictions on Cuba, and opened the way for a more economic alliance. Castro inquired of some of the big issues facing the world and humanity, including the Pope’s recent encyclical on the environment and the global economic system. Castro’s wife, children and grandchildren were present during the meeting.
For more on this story click, Pope’s first day in Cuba: Castros, warnings, and some humor.
