“Gratitude is the inward feeling of kindness received. Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express that feeling. Thanksgiving is the following of that impulse.” — Henry Van Dyke
We are grateful for the opportunity to visit Cuba once again. We are thankful for you who have made it possible for the pastors and communities we partner with to receive much needed support. They minister daily to those in need when they themselves are in need. This ministry would not be possible without the faithfulness of our donors. Thank you!
Our mission trip to Cuba took place from October 26th to November 3rd, and we are deeply grateful to those in Cuba who worked tirelessly to ensure everything ran smoothly. Despite significant challenges—including shortages of diesel fuel, lack of electricity thought the island, transportation, and health concerns—we were blessed with countless opportunities to serve and connect.
“This mission is not only supplying the needs of fellow believers in need—it will overflow in many expressions of thanks to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:12
We were overjoyed to reunite with familiar, beloved faces and deliver much-needed medications and medical supplies. We had the opportunity to hear firsthand accounts from our partner pastors about how their churches meet critical needs in their communities and how people are coming to know God. Together, we worshiped, shared meals, and deepened our understanding of faith.
We also delivered twenty solar audio bibles. These have a recording of the bible study “Through the Bible” by Vernon McGee and of each book of the Bible
This trip was particularly special because we were joined by Scott and Amber Symington. Scott, a physicist and apologist, focused on equipping believers to confidently defend their faith. Over the course of the week, more than 750 people across eight towns attended his instructive and memorable talks. Scott made complex topics accessible, providing practical tools to answer questions about belief in God. He shared evidence for God’s creation of the universe, explored differences in worldviews, demonstrated the coherence of Scripture, and unpacked the concept of the Trinity. To listen to a recent talk by Scott to a group of scientists through Zoom: click here
Scott spoke to 100+ young people at a youth event in Caibarien, to students at the Seminary in Havana, at churches in Caibarien, Sagua, Yaguajay, Jumagua, La Larga and Buenavista. The highlight of the trip was a three-day youth leaders’ conference at the Baptist Camp in Yumuri, where 150 youth leaders gathered. Remarkably, the electricity remained uninterrupted throughout our stay, a rare blessing in Cuba. On the last day the participants shared their reflections on the conference, describing the talks as deeply impactful and edifying. They noted how the integration of science and faith strengthened their understanding and confidence.
In addition to the teaching and fellowship, we were able to deliver vital medications and supplies. The shortage of medications in Cuba is severe—they are unavailable in hospitals or pharmacies—making these contributions a lifeline for those in need. We are incredibly thankful for the generous donations that allowed us to purchase medications through Blessings International and other agencies, as well as the over-the-counter items sent from our wish list. Each item was a tangible gift of hope and relief.
Despite the logistical and environmental hurdles, the trip was a whirlwind of purpose and joy. From the inspiring talks to the youth leaders’ testimonies, we witnessed God’s provision and the resilience of His people in Cuba. The quote below is like a guidepost to the ministry in Cuba
“You do not need to know precisely what is happening, or exactly where it is all going. What you need is to recognize the possibilities and challenges offered by the present moment, and to embrace them with courage, faith and hope.”― Thomas Merton.