As told to SIR by mgr. Juan de Dios Hernandez, secretary general of the Cuban Bishops Conference, "of course we wish the Pope may come to Cuba, a good opportunity might be the Pope’s next visit to Mexico, at the Family Congress. And why shouldn’t we set it all up so that he will stop over in Cuba as well? This is my dream”. Great was the enthusiasm and warm the reception given to card. Bertone by the population of Havana, during his first official appearance. Card. Ortega recalled "the fatherly affection" of Benedict XVI, that he had already expressed "the very day of his appointment, as he took my hands and confirmed his sympathy with the Church of Cuba”. Mass was colourful and lively with the choir dressed in blue and white and cheerful Cuban songs, the same that were sung ten years ago for John Paul II. The flags of the two states were placed at both sides of the altar, in front of the entrance to the Cathedral in Old Havana. (segue)
