George and our Director of Operations, Molly McLain, have just returned from Cuba, and what an encouraging trip they had! For Molly, this trip was both her first time in Cuba and her first flight. On this trip, our ministry goals included the implementation of our Phase 2 training, teaching at the in-country student ministry, and encouraging the Cuban pastors and Christians as they continue to walk with the Lord. Each time, we are reminded that the Cuban people will encourage us much more than we can ever encourage them. The Lord faithfully used them to show us His goodness through countless testimonies and His providence through their stories of hope and trust.
On our first night in Santa Clara, George, Molly, and our TOI partner John Abernathy met with student ministry leaders on the terrace of our Hostal (hotel accommodations). The leaders told us the various jobs they have in the country and the approximate amount of money they earn each month. The highest occupation only provided $45 a month. These educated engineers, doctors, businessmen, and tradesmen make at most only $45 a month. They budget to provide for their families on an amount that we can easily spend in one day.
This evening reminded us of the importance of our microfinance ministry to the Cuban people. John presented our Phase 2 curriculum to local pastors and citizens to help them begin developing business plans for small business loans through The Overseas Initiative. We were greatly inspired by the creativity of the Cuban people as they began to think of new ways they could gain income and provide for themselves. Read just a few of the ideas below:
“I have this vision for selling birds—exporting them to sell at pet stores.”
“I want to steward my business to offer free rides to my church members by selling rides to others.”
We truly cannot express how inspiring it was to hear countless ideas for businesses from individuals who have often told us they feel hopeless and can’t see ways to care for their families and themselves. Not only did we hear ideas for trades and traditional small businesses but also careers in the arts. George and Molly met a local pastor who earns his income by selling his beautiful artwork! He creates art for the glory of God so that he can better serve the people of God. A young college student writes Spanish music for the Cuban church and desires to provide for herself by composing Christian music in a country that limits access to worship music for its people—how bold and how beautiful!
The Lord is moving in Cuba, and we are grateful He has chosen TOI to be a part of His work. Pray with us that He will continue to strengthen the Cubans and remind them of His deep, deep love for them!
