Pastors in Cuba mobilize to provide food and aid to hurricane victims despite government restrictions

The Christian churches in Cuba have played a vital role in supporting those impacted by Hurricane Melissa, despite facing significant logistical challenges and government restrictions. These churches have mobilized across the island to provide essential aid, organizing efforts to gather food and supplies for affected communities.

Pastor Eduardo Otero of the Church of God in Havana shared details of the church’s efforts, noting that they sent a truck loaded with 200 boxes of MannaPack, a type of vitamin rice providing 35 rations per box. These were distributed to Guantánamo and other regions, along with olive oil, wheat flour, and white sugar. “This is not only for the church, but to distribute in the community as people need,” he said, expressing hope for additional food donations to continue their work.

The road conditions remain difficult, with many telephone poles and lights down, creating congestion and limiting full access to affected areas. Despite these obstacles, the churches persist in their efforts, determined to reach those in need. “You must always border, you must find a way to get there,” Otero emphasized, reflecting the resilience of these communities.

In Palma Soriano, Pastor Lorenzo Rosales Fajardo, a former political prisoner released in January, described the church’s efforts to assist the most vulnerable. His congregation, though small, has been providing food and essential services such as charging phones and lighting homes, which remain without electricity. “With what little we have we are helping,” he said, highlighting the church’s commitment to practical neighbor-love.

Rosales Fajardo also noted that his denomination receives support from the Alliance of Christians of Cuba, a group that advocates for religious and social freedoms on the island. This aid enables the church to assist not only those affected by the hurricane but also family members of political prisoners, demonstrating a broader commitment to justice and care.

Many churches, both registered and operating without official recognition, struggle to gather sufficient resources to meet the needs of the most deprived. The Evangelical Alliance of Christ, for example, in Santiago de Cuba, has faced challenges in securing enough supplies to provide aid effectively. These difficulties underscore the ongoing obstacles faced by religious communities in Cuba.

The Cuban government maintains strict control over religious life, with the Communist Party of Cuba and its affiliated agencies overseeing most aspects of faith practice. Despite these constraints, the churches continue to serve as a source of hope and support for those in need, embodying the spirit of mercy and compassion found in Matthew 25:35, where Jesus calls his followers to care for the least among them.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)