Review of:  Our Lady of Charity: How a Cuban Devotion to Mary Helped Me Grow in Faith and Love

Maria Morera Johnson.  Ave Maria Press, $15.95 (160p) ISBN 978-1-5947-1901-1

From the author of My Badass Book of Saints comes an intriguing first-hand look at the symbolism and history of the patroness of Cuba, Our Lady of Charity.  Weaving her own story with Cuban and Catholic history, Johnson’s work is an invitation to deepen one’s faith through a greater understanding of Mary the Mother of God under the title of Our Lady of Charity.  Johnson begins by introducing us to the legendary story of how Mary’s divine intercession saved three Cuban fishermen from being drowned at sea, and how this tale spread throughout the country [pp. 1-16].  Our Lady of Charity came to signify faith, family, and homeland [p. 11].  A shrine was erected in El Cobre, and devotion to her became widespread, inspiring the visits of three Popes [pp. 33-50].  Johnson reflects on the significance of the Marian procession of Our Lady of Charity in 2012 and making its way around Cuba over the subsequent two-year period [pp. 67-68].  Johnson theorizes that taking the statue of the patroness into the street brought hope and faith to all, linking evangelism with processional celebrations.  Johnson is both delicate and deliberate in assuring readers that Catholics do not worship Mary (or saints), but rather look upon these figures as guides in leading us to Jesus Christ [pp. 87-104].  Our Lady of Charity’s entrance and establishment in Miami is beautifully chronicled while Johnson reminds Christians of their belonging through faith regardless of place or circumstance [pp. 71-83].  The author’s writing is deeply personal as she describes her faith journey as a Cuban-American alongside the history of the Cuban devotion to Our Lady of Charity.  The book is easily accessible to both Catholics and non-Catholics and is an excellent introductory resource to deeper understanding of the biblical Mary.  5 stars