In what some are calling a “Hanukkah miracle,” American Alan Gross arrived safely in the U.S. this week after five years of imprisonment in Cuba. The 65-year-old Gross, a Jewish aid worker, had been jailed on charges of espionage, although he has maintained his innocence. The Jewish Council for Public Affairs was among the many groups welcoming his release. Gross thanked all those who prayed for him and said he would use his freedom for good:

Alan Gross: “We must never forget the two pillars of Moses’ covenant: freedom and responsibility. I am incredibly blessed, finally, to have the freedom to resume a positive and constructive life.

Gross’s release came as the U.S. and Cuba announced a new era of “normalized” relations, ending 50 years of hostility. The White House said Pope Francis had been instrumental in persuading both countries to improve relations. Many faith groups welcomed the move, while others raised concerns, especially about the state of religious freedom in Cuba.