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For nearly two decades, the Church of Our Savior has maintained a special relationship with a small Episcopal church in La Gloria, Cuba - Santisima Trinidad. Located about 300 miles from Havana in the province of Camagüey, this remote church community where there are very few cars, has become family to many members of Our Savior through years of faithful visits and support.
In March 2024, Rick Daber, Bunny Jackson, and Fr. Joe made their latest journey to La Gloria, continuing a tradition of bringing essential supplies and maintaining long-standing relationships. The church building itself stands as a testament to perseverance and faith - what began as a deteriorating wooden structure from the early 1900s has been transformed into a beautiful concrete sanctuary, completed three years ago after a 15-year process of construction.
The congregation, primarily composed of women and children, numbers about 20-30 families. Under the leadership of Father Alfredo and his wife Rebecca, who recently succeeded the longtime priest Father Evelio, the church serves as more than just a place of worship. It's become the heart of the community - a storm shelter, a gathering place, and soon, thanks to a new water purification system donated by Our Savior, a source of clean water for the entire village.
Life in La Gloria is marked by daily challenges. With unreliable electricity, limited access to basic supplies, and an economy that often operates on sharing between neighbors, the community's faith remains remarkably strong. As Rick observed, "Their dependency on their relationship with God is a lot stronger than mine. And when I go there, I'm reminded of that. When you stop and realize that God's grace is universal, and if that's all you had was God's grace, then you'd be a lot more appreciative of it."
During their recent visit, the Our Saviour team distributed essential supplies including sugar, beans, oil, and soap to local families. They also brought solar-powered lanterns, which will provide crucial lighting during frequent power outages. The trip culminated in a special mass where dresses were presented from Our Savior's Daughters of the King chapter to their newly formed sister chapter in La Gloria.
The relationship between these two churches transcends mere charitable giving - it's a genuine connection between communities of faith. Despite geographical distance, the bonds formed over these years have created lasting friendships. As Bunny noted, "They remember everybody who's been there over the years. The fact that they are so giving and so open... they're happy with what God gives them."
This ongoing ministry represents not just material support, but a spiritual exchange that enriches both communities. While Our Savior provides resources and encouragement to their Cuban family, the congregation in La Gloria offers powerful lessons about faith, gratitude, and finding joy in God's grace amid life's challenges.