An Old Man Drags Heavy Stones to Prove His Faith

In Cuba's most important religious festival, devout Catholics crawl the last six miles to the church. Some even drag a heavy stone. Or two.

Tens of thousands of Cuban Pilgrims flock to the tiny village of El Rincon every December 17th to celebrate the feast day of Saint Lazarus - a poor leper and friend of Jesus Christ (and brother of Maria Magdalena). But in a uniquely Cuban twist, the festival of San Lazaro seamlessly blends Catholicism and Santeria, the African spirit worship brought to Cuba by slaves over two hundred years ago.

San Lazaro is both the African oricha, Babalu Aye, and the Catholic saint who appears as a beggar in the Gospel of Saint Luke. He is a favorite of the Cubans because of his poverty, his love of dogs, and his ability to perform miraculous cures.

If you're in Cuba during the third week in December, this is an event not to be missed - a chance to celebrate Cuban culture, religion, and spirit. And, on the walk back - some exceptionally good lechon.

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