The Canadian Mission Work in Cuba is the result of a plea that came in July 2003 to the REC Diocese of Western Canada for Episcopal oversight for a small group of believers in the city of Moa, Holguin, Cuba. What began as a small congregation of about 15 people has grown greatly and spread to other areas, through the leadership of Cuban clergy with the guidance of Canadian Bishop Charles Dorrington and his wife Claudia.
Over the years since 2003, the Mission Outreach has become a recognized Mission Diocese, with over 50 locations throughout the Country, and an average attendance at weekly services of approximately 1000 souls. Because of the rapid growth, an Archdeacon was appointed, and then, a few years later, with the authorization of the Primates’ Council, the Mission Diocese was established and an Assisting Bishop, The Rev’d. Willians Mendez Suarez was appointed and consecrated. He would act as the Suffragan Bishop. In 2014, The Right Reverend Raul William Mendez Suarez was consecrated Bishop of Cuba.
Today, we have a Seminary built by parishioners’ hands in Moa, teaching courses based on The Lutheran Church’s Spanish DVD courses, Moore’s College of Australia extension courses, and Cranmer House REC Seminary in Dallas oversight, through the work of The Rev’d. Benjamin Bernier. In the video below, the Rev’d. Miguel uses his bicycle as his ‘clergy vehicle’. That bicycle is absolutely necessary for him to be able to visit all of the parishioners. The building was purchased by funds raised by the Parishioners of Miguel’s ministries, together with a gift from the Mission Diocese. This building will quickly become the Ministry Centre of the four church-plants that he serves in the Florida area. The Lord is truly great.
Please read the Spring 2020 newsletter so that you can better pray for the Church in Cuba.