Canadian Mission Work in Cuba

This ministry outreach is the result of a plea to the Diocese of Western Canada for Episcopal oversight for a small group of believers in the city of Moa, Holguin, Cuba. This request came in July 2003. Moa is a city of approximately 55,000 people, situated beside two nickle mines in the Eastern end of Cuba, about 30 miles north of Guantanamo Bay.

What began in 2003 as a small congregation of about 15 people has now over 190 attendees and has itself spawned a mission church in the City of Ciego de Avila of over 40 attendees. Every month sees both churches growing with baptism and new members. Iglesia San Marcos Reformada in Moa is pastored by the Rev'd Ramon Torrente Batista, who also oversees Lay Reader Reinaldo Blanshette at Iglesia San Juan Reformada in Ciego de Avila.

Many people ask if there is any way that they can become a part of this ministry. The answer is "Yes, you can." In Canada there are a number ways to assist, including donations of any size of simple medicines such as children's cough syrups, aspirin, or good clean used or new clothing, or financial assistance to the Diocese's Outreach Fund. However, it is impossible to donate goods and clothing from the USA due to the cost of shipping the items to Canada. Therefore, the best way for those in the USA to assist with this work is through financial offerings, either from individuals or from congregations. Please introduce our ministry to your Pastor and Congregation for their prayers and any other possible help. Bishop Charles and Claudia are more than willing to share what the Lord has called them and the Diocese of Western Canada to do.

If you would like to help in any of these ways, please contact the Diocesan Offices (250-727-3722), or contact the Dorringtons at 250-652-8850. You may also send an email to revchas (at) shaw.ca.