Grace in Placetas

Dear Friends,
Last week, I traveled with four members of our mission team to visit our partners in Placetas, Cuba. We brought medicines, craft supplies, holiday decorations—and funds generously donated by our congregation and the Presbytery of Southern Kansas to help install a solar backup system for their church. Their gratitude was deep and sincere, and this gift will strengthen their ministry in powerful ways.
From the beginning, we were welcomed into a vibrant congregation full of life and hope. We joined children as they re-enacted the story of the friends who lowered a man through the roof to meet Jesus (Luke 5:17–39), learning together about faith and friendship. We spent time with seniors in their weekly “third stage” program, where the church offers check-ups, conversation, and exercises for body and mind. Their joy and resilience were inspiring.
On Saturday evening, adults and families gathered with us for food, music, and dancing—even without electricity! We shared favorite dishes from the U.S., enjoyed homemade Cuban recipes, and sang along to impromptu renditions of “Imagine” and “Hotel California.” Fellowship like that needs no translation.
On Sunday we joined the congregation for worship. The scripture reading, Ephesians 2:14–22, reminded us that Christ “is our peace,” breaking down dividing walls to make us one household of God. Pastor Anier preached in both English and Spanish so all could hear and understand. Worshiping together was a powerful reminder that the Church is larger and more beautiful than any one community.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to travel with our team and to strengthen the ties that bind us as brothers and sisters in Christ. The Placetas church is doing remarkable ministry—caring for seniors, nurturing children, supporting families, and serving their community with joy and trust in God’s provision. On the drive from the airport, Pastor Anier said, “God helped us build the church building; now we are building the Church.” Their commitment to mission beyond the walls is a model for us all.
We will return to Placetas in February. If you’d like to join the next team, please contact Carolyn Shaw or Darcy Eads.
See you in church!
Grace and peace,
Pastor Kevin