Trip to Cuba!

--> In the first part of February we had the opportunity to travel to Cuba, where United World Mission sent out its first missionaries in the 1940s.  Rick grew up hearing many stories about the work in Cuba from some of the very missionaries who left Cuba under Fidel Castro’s orders following the Revolution.

The purpose of our trip was not to enjoy beautiful beaches or marvel over antique cars.  We have no political motivations or desire to uncover the “real” Cuba.  Instead, we traveled to meet our fellow believers and see the work God is doing in the lives of Cubans today. 

We visited several churches which were established and built before the Revolution.  They were closed for decades, but have been allowed to operate again.  It was a joy to worship in them and experience God’s presence and the enthusiasm of His people.

The gospel is being spread by dedicated people who share the love and hope in Christ one to one.  The established churches have started many house churches in outlying areas.   Christian leaders go to the people traveling many kilometers on foot, bicycle, or by “botella” (catching a ride).

God is eternal and omnipotent.  His Word does not return vacant.  Nations and peoples may ignore God, but He does not ignore them.  His love for each person transcends any life circumstance.  We heard testimonies of salvation, hope, and restoration from many of our new friends.  God’s Word is living and active despite a scarcity of biblical texts.

So many times Rick and I felt like we were in the Dominican Republic rather than Cuba.  The accent, customs, food, and the landscape are so similar.  One day we visited a rural area and it was uncanny how the house, outbuildings and crops were the same.  The believers we met were every bit as warm and hospitable as our Dominican brothers and sisters.

We shared many delicious meals with our hosts.  Red beans and rice is the most typical meal and we felt right at home.  Breakfast was typically coffee, eggs, and bread. We were blessed to be able to eat some chicken and pork as well. Just like in the Dominican Republic, Cubans drink a lot of coffee and so did we!

Toward the end of our trip we visited one of the most precious places in the hearts of many UWM missionaries and our new Cuban friends.  Camp Las Palmas is a large property that gently slopes down to a quiet bay.  Originally purchased in the 40s and developed for camping and seminary training, it has come back to life and enough renovation has been done to serve many adult leaders who come for theological instruction.  In the summer, hundreds of young people attend camp. 

A few things surprised and/or impressed us.  Cuba has a quality educational system and it was evident in the people we interacted with.  We didn’t know how internet worked on the island and were excited to find that wifi is available in the town square with a prepaid card.  So we were able to text a few times with our kids. 

We returned to the Dominican Republic, praising God for how He is working.  We felt honored to meet and see the ministries of our Cuban brothers and sisters.  It was inspiring.  Becky and I hope to bring some Dominican pastors to Cuba to see and learn as we have.  Also, it's possible that some of them might travel here.  We feel we have a lot in common and can learn a lot from one another.  Praise God!