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Serve with ABWE

Central America and the Caribbean: Cuba

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The largest of the Caribbean islands, located just to the south of Florida, Cuba experiences subtle changes of season in its subtropical climate. The wet summer season lasts from May to October, and the drier winter weather lasts from November to April. Temperatures vary between 72 and 81, with average annual humidity around 80%.

When Spaniards arrived to colonize Cuba in the late 15th century, the island was sparsely inhabited by indigenous Indians. The Spanish colonizers imported African slaves to work on cattle ranches, producing the leather and dried beef that were the mainstay of the country's economy until they were replaced by tobacco and then sugar production.

In the early 1800's, Cuba saw an influx of Spanish loyalists from newly independent South American countries. Its own war of independence began in 1868 and, after 10 years, ended in defeat. This was followed by decades of political control by the United States, ending when the Depression caused economic collapse and political upheaval that set the stage for Fidel Castro's successful bid for power.

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Castro's nationalization policies strained Cuba's ties with the United States and the two nations broke off relations when Cuba became openly communist. Despite massive amounts of Soviet aid, the Cuban economy worsened with the collapse of the Soviet Union. The subsequent withdrawal of military personnel and technical advisors left Cuba to flounder, and Castro slowly instituted reforms within the country.

Because of its strong African heritage, Cuba's spiritist religion ( Santeria ) influences the practice of all other religions, including those claiming to be Christian. Afro-Cuban gods, equivalent to major Catholic saints, and animal sacrifices testify to Santeria's prevalence. Santeria has also impacted other aspects of culture, such as music, dance, and art, which employ spiritist themes.

ABWE will partner with local pastors-by invitation-to provide national leadership training and theological education which will enable Cubans to reach their own people with the gospel message.