In recent years, Cuba has experienced a massive wave of emigration. Under pressure and threat from the Cuban government, countless religious leaders and human rights defenders have left the country to seek sanctuary elsewhere.

Those who remain are often subjected to surveillance and routinely targeted with threats, harassment, physical attack, and even arbitrary detention. Add your voice as we cry out for peace, justice and transformation.

Find out more at csw.org.uk/cuba

Sunday 9 July

Pray for those who have been forced to flee Cuba. Ask God to keep them safe, especially if they must travel dangerous routes, and to help them adapt to a new life. Pray particularly for those dealing with trauma from their experiences, that the Holy Spirit would bring complete mental and physical healing.

Monday 10 July

Remember in prayer the independent religious leaders, journalists, human rights defenders and others who remain in the country, whether by choice or not. They are at risk of being targeted for their beliefs, and for standing up for the rights and freedoms of others.

Tuesday 11 July

Two years ago, Pastor Lorenzo Rosales Fajardo was arrested after peacefully participating in unprecedented, nationwide protests. Today he is still wrongfully imprisoned, serving a seven-year sentence. Pray that justice would reign, that Pastor Lorenzo would be released without condition.

Wednesday 12 July

Lift up in prayer Loreto Hernández García – a leader of an independent religious group, the Association of Free Yorubas. In March, Loreto was denied permission to receive medical treatment outside prison, where he remains unjustly imprisoned following the 11 July protests. Pray that he will be granted the healthcare he urgently needs.

Thursday 13 July

‘He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.’ (Psalm 91:4) Pray this verse over all who are threatened, harassed or wrongfully imprisoned because of their beliefs – especially religious leaders.

Friday 14 July

Bring before God those in positions of power in Cuba. Ask that he would transform their hearts and minds to no longer pursue control and repression, but instead to embrace freedom and uphold human rights for all.

Saturday 15 July

Almighty God, you see the intensifying control and repression in Cuba. We pray protection over those who speak out against this crackdown on human rights, and boldly raise their voices for freedom. Lord, may their voices be heard and lead to lasting change. Amen.

Download a printable copy of this week’s Prayer Diary.