Cuba Cardinal Gives TV Address About Papal Visit

HAVANA (AP) — Roman Catholic Cardinal Jaime Ortega of Havana has delivered a rare televised speech about Pope Benedict XVI’s upcoming visit to Cuba.

Ortega says Benedict is coming as a pilgrim to honor the 400th anniversary of the appearance of the Virgin of Charity of Cobre, the patron of Cuba.

He adds that the pontiff is interesting in reviving the faith in countries that were Christianized long ago but “need a new evangelization.”

Fewer than 10 percent of Cubans are observant Catholics.

Ortega spoke Tuesday night on state television wearing black and red robes and a large cross on a chain around his neck.