Two Weeks of Ministry in Cuba
Bishop Glen W. Anniskette, his wife Susie, missionary/translator Willa Smith and friend Mick Toole from Ketchikan, AK joined together for an incredible two week mission trip from one end of Cuba to the other and back again.
The team traveled on a religious visa so they could minister in the country with the permission of the Cuban government. The religious visa inhibited the freedom of the team to the point that they were not allowed to even sit on the porch by themselves of the “casa particulares” where they stayed, but God opened up doors of ministry everywhere then they were accompanied by the local Cubans.
The typical Church of God in Cuba is normally located in the home of the pastor or member of the church and is cooled only with fans. The government will not allowed air conditioning in the churches. Most churches also have many cell groups that have spun off the local church. God is moving and doing a work in Cuba even if they have to sweat while they worship!
The team stopped to encourage several pastors along the journey and they were able to meet with a few congregations as well for a time of worship.
One pastor had been working on his church building for ten years and only needed $2,000 to finish the building so his congregation could worship indoors. Hallelujah, God provided and this pastor will be able to complete his church building (hopefully) by this fall.
Another alive and well church was made from chicken wire and Styrofoam that was had been used for television insulation. The pews were created from wooden pallets. Amazingly this church began years before because Willa Smith knocked on the door and led the couple to the Lord!
God blessed mightily in a Santiago territorial convention (hosted by Overseer Daniel Morales) where the team ministered in teaching, singing and preaching.
Americans may find Cuba difficult to reach for God today because of political differences, but God has made a way for His Word to flourish and souls are coming to God daily and churches are crowded with hungry souls! Pray for Cuba!
