Miami Archbishop Thomas Wenski is urging Cuban-Americans traveling to Cuba to see Pope Benedict the XVI to think like pilgrims.
Before a Mass on Saturday, Wenski said the trip has been criticized as a tourist jaunt. He reminded the group of more than 300 going to see the pope that the trip will be a spiritual experience and one that uplifts Cubans on the island and abroad.
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Wenski acknowledged the fear some older Cuban exiles have of returning to their homeland for the first time in 50 years. Many fled the country shortly after Fidel Castro took power in 1959 and have long opposed his government.
The archbishop said he thought the travelers would be surprised by the welcome reception they receive.