Evangelical Pastor Detained by Cuban Regime During Peaceful Pilgrimage

The Cuban regime interrupted an evangelical pilgrimage in Cabaiguán, Sancti Spiritus, on Sunday, halting a demonstration under the slogan “Cuba Libre para Cristo.” The event, organized by the Alliance of Christians of Cuba, saw participants carrying white flags symbolizing peace alongside the Cuban flag while praying for the city. Pastor Alian López Rodríguez, leader of the Tabernacle Congregation of La Promesa within the International Ministry of Reciprocal Wind, led the march, declaring, “The Church of Cuba is awake. We are not silent, we are not hiding; we are crying for the chains to break, for every yoke to fall, for God to have mercy and visit our nation. Free Cuba, in the powerful name of Jesus!”

Repressive agents intervened, detaining López Rodríguez. According to the Alliance of Christians of Cuba, several congregation leaders urged authorities to arrest them as well if López Rodríguez was taken, but officials stated the order was solely against him. The organization noted that López Rodríguez has faced repeated threats, harassment, confiscations, searches, and demolition orders against his church.

Pastor Mario Félix Lleonart of the Patmos Institute told Martí Noticias that such actions are not isolated, as churches across Cuba are increasingly engaging in prayer and spiritual activism. The Cuban Observatory for Human Rights (OCDH) called for an end to harassment against believers and religious leaders, citing at least 873 violations of religious freedom in Cuba in 2025.

Recent months have seen heightened repression against religious communities, particularly targeting critical Catholic priests in Havana and growing evangelical groups. Over 70 religious leaders denounced the “hungry, misery and helplessness” faced by the population in March. The Alliance of Christians of Cuba reiterated its stance, emphasizing the need for freedom of conscience and worship.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)