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Despite very limited resources, the convention is seeking to address the needs for future leaders in a variety of ministries—pastors, youth and children's workers, worship leaders, missionaries, etc.—through multiple programs and curriculums offered at the seminary some 20 minutes outside of Santiago, and through a number of regional training centers and Bible institutes. It's clear that they have prioritized equipping workers to lead the emerging missions and churches that are being formed.
One of the lasting impressions that I came away with from this visit to Cuba was the heartfelt and exuberant worship that characterized their services. We attended worship services on Sunday morning and evening at different churches and then a third midweek service on Thursday and all were marked by wholehearted participation by the entire congregation. Those present sang with obvious feeling and joy and did so without reservation. The sense of community was strong as our team was warmly greeted and welcomed by all those in attendance as they exited the building. Our respective nations' political differences notwithstanding, the genuine expressions of Christian fellowship and acknowledgment of jointly belonging to the body of Christ were so obvious as to be almost palpable. I am earnestly anticipating future opportunities to renew ties established during this week as our respective organizations and churches in Missouri seek meaningful partnerships with our Cuban brothers and sisters.
Worship at 1ra Iglesia Bautista (1st Baptist Church) in El Caney.