The day before, in several streets of the Cuban capital, people could already be seen wearing clothing made of burlap sacks and purple garments. These colors distinguish San Lázaro and the orisha from the Afro-Cuban pantheon Babalú Ayé.

Believers of the Catholic and Yoruba religions consider him a miraculous saint and his devotees often make pilgrimages to pay promises for the restitution of health and family welfare.

Every year, As usual around this date, hundreds of people from various parts of the country arrive at the Sanctuary or Church of San Lázaro in El Rincón, located in the capital municipality of Boyeros.

Many worshippers usually enter on their knees, barefoot or dragging stones and crosses to fulfill outstanding promises.

Candles are lit on the altars of the sanctuary, purple flowers flood the place, and the faithful approach a well-known water source and fill their jars.

St. Lázaro is one of the most revered figures among Cuban Catholics, an image that is also associated with the orisha of disease, health, and mercy.

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