Sometimes we are the strangers looking for welcome in other places. Sarah Shepherd was working with the Partners in Mission Unit of the United Church when she visited a church partner in Cuba in March 2012.

“Pass the light to the person next to you.” The brisk breeze off the Atlantic meant the candle flames were imaginary, but the connection was real. We were a cluster of students, teachers, staff, and visitors—Presbyterians, Anglicans, Quakers, and Baptists—gathered for morning worship at the Evangelical Seminary of Theology in Matanzas, Cuba. We then slowly walked the seminary labyrinth, gathered in the centre, and lifted up prayers together.

Worship is one of many ways in which Matanzas students build relationships and understanding together. There are diverse classes, a dining room where everyone can eat together, a library, and a choir of students, staff, and teachers. The beautiful grounds on the edge of the town strengthen the community feeling and make spontaneous conversations easy. Many visitors are welcomed each year to learn and share. And although resources are scarce, students share what they have—food, books, dishes, furniture.

The seeds being planted now at the seminary will grow into vibrant ministry throughout Cuba, where trained ministers serve many people and where a faithful vision of social justice is important in a time of transition. Your support of the Mission and Service Fund can help these seeds to grow.

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*Photo by ianturton