Kevin and I recently had the privilege of joining a group of ten amazing individuals on a mission trip to Sancti Spiritus, Cuba. This experience was a profound journey that exposed us to the beauty and hardships of life in Cuba.
The current situation in Cuba is dire, with widespread rationing of power, water, and food. Basic necessities like toiletries are considered luxuries. Power outages last from 10 am to 10 pm daily, and water is scarce during the day. Cubans rely on ration cards to access limited food and essential items. The food rations are meager, with each person allotted just one small bread roll per day and five eggs per month. Children under seven receive a single bottle of milk per week. The scarcity of supplies often leads to long lines and disappointment. This is a constant struggle, and many Cubans rely on community support and ingenuity to survive. With the minimum wage set at $10 a month it is not unusual to encounter doctors and nuclear engineers making a living as taxi drivers (taxis in Cuba consist of a horse or a motorcycle pull buggy carriage).
Despite these challenges, the Cuban people exhibit an incredible sense of community and resilience. One thing was evident in CUBA! They possess a deep faith and trust in God’s provision.
Before our trip, we collected donations of essential items like over-the-counter medicine, toiletries, water filters, solar lights, craft supplies, and power banks. These donations provided much-needed relief and support to the community.
During our time in Cuba, we participated in various activities, including home visits, a Beauty for Ashes session, Vacation Bible School (VBS), a youth conference titled “Following the Footsteps of Jesus,” and community feedings. The VBS was a joyous occasion, with over 40 children gathering under a mango tree to hear Bible stories, play games, sing, dance, and enjoy snacks.
The youth conference was a highlight of our trip. We shared messages of hope and practical applications of following Jesus’ footsteps, emphasizing the importance of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity. During home visits, we prayed with families, distributed food, and shared the gospel. We witnessed several individuals accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. We were also able to provide beans, rice, and oil to 35 families and organize a community feeding of “caldozo,” a hearty soup. We were overwhelmed by the gratitude and hope expressed by the Cuban people.
The Sunday service was powerful, culminating in the entire Cuban church being commissioned and anointed to spread the gospel within their communities.
Needless to say, our hearts are filled with gratitude that we were able to partake in this trip. But they are also torn and hurting for our sisters and brothers in CUBA and eager to come back.
As we reflect on our experience, we are reminded of the words of Nehemiah 2:17-18: “Then I said to them, “You see the bad situation we are in, that Jerusalem is desolate and its gates have been burned by fire. Come, let’s rebuild the wall of Jerusalem so that we will no longer be a disgrace.” … Then they said, “Let’s arise and build.” So they put their hands to the good work..”
If you feel in your heart the desire to help, your Cuban brothers and sisters need it! If you feel called to support the Cuban people, please consider the following:
Prayer: Pray for God’s revival in Cuba and for the alleviation of their suffering.
Financial Support and practical assistance: Donate! If you are wondering more tangible ways you can help, please reach out to me! I would be delighted to share more with you.
Let us stand together in solidarity with our Cuban brothers and sisters, extending a hand of love and hope.
