Fidel Castro’s audience was one of the first which he observed from up close as the John Paul II’s second secretary. He remembers well the comments that the Pope should not extend his hand to Castro. And, the Pope extended his hand and two months later flew to Cuba. He was right, and the world was wrong. After the holy Mass on Havana’s Revolution Square, there was no revolution in Cuba, but Christmas again became an official holiday free of work, again it was possible to organize processions on the streets of cities and publish church magazines. Castro also released 180 political prisoners. Little has changed, but always something; always some kind of a thaw. There was hope in the Cuban congregations. The Holy Father poured some courage, encouragement, and solidarity into their hearts.
– Is it true that after the audience John Paul II was even impressed by the Cuban dictator?
– You can say so; of course, in a very specific context. Fidel Castro was well prepared to meet the Holy Father. He has read many of his works, including poems. He was very well versed in the encyclicals, all thoroughly studied. The Holy Father was extremely surprised and can be said to be full of admiration for Fidel Castro. It was the same with the pilgrimage. He surprised with the knowledge of the achievements of John Paul II. It was difficult to believe.
With the permission of Archbishop Mieczysław Mokrzycki –“He liked Tuesdays the most”
M Publishing House, Krakow 2008
