The government of Cuba has a record of abusing freedom of religion or belief. Over the years it has intimidated and harassed church leaders, expropriated church buildings, arrested religious freedom defenders, and harassed the children of religious leaders. Yet those under fire are displaying immense courage, refusing to be intimidated into giving up their faith. ‘They want me to stop being a pastor,’ says Pastor Alain Toledano Valiente. But he has no intention of stopping. Find out more about Cuba at csw.org.uk/cuba
Sunday 14 June
Thank God for the immense courage displayed by Pastor Alain Toledano Valiente and his family. His church and home have been destroyed twice in the past two decades, he’s been charged with the crime of ‘disobedience’ for holding church events, and he’s been banned indefinitely from leaving the country. He and his wife and children are continuing to stand firm in their faith despite everything they face.
Monday 15 June
Liusdan is a 12-year-old Jewish boy from Camagüey province. He and his younger brother, Daniel Moises, have been forbidden from entering their school while wearing the kippah (skullcap). Liusdan has also been beaten regularly since he started at his new school. Pray that Liusdan and Daniel Moises will be able to resume their education free of intimidation.
Tuesday 16 June
When no one is watching, governments can get away with anything. But the international community is starting to acknowledge the situation - the United States recently added Cuba to its Special Watch List for countries that have ‘engaged in or tolerated severe violations of religious freedom.’ This sends a warning to the government, and Cuban religious leaders have been calling for this for years, so we’re very pleased that their voices have finally been heard. Thank God for this development.
Wednesday 17 June
Pastor Toledano Valiente’s wife Marilín Alayo Correa, has recorded a moving and powerful video testimony about the intense harassment her family has endured, and their determination to keep going. Pray that she will not experience any retaliation for her courage in speaking out.
Thursday 18 June
‘This is what the Lord says to you: “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.”’ (2 Chronicles 20:15b) Pray this verse over Cuba today.
Friday 19 June
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all public gatherings in Cuba have been suspended to safeguard public health – this includes all religious services. As social distancing measures are being relaxed, please pray that the Cuban government will not use the pandemic as an excuse to maintain these restrictions on freedom of religion and repress religious communities in Cuba.
Saturday 20 June
Heavenly Father, today we give you thanks for the courage of religious leaders and activists in Cuba. Protect them from the government’s plans to intimidate and harass them, and give them a new measure of peace. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.