The Florida Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church has for many years had strong covenantal ties to the Methodist churches of Cuba. Until 1968 the Methodist churches in Cuba were part of (and reported to) the Florida Annual Conference. The Methodist churches in Cuba have more than 50,000 worshipers, and a little over 10,000 are church members. In attendance at gatherings and worship services for all church activities, 85% of those present are youth and young adults. Membership in a Methodist church in Cuba requires about 105 hours (approximately one year) of New Member Orientation. That is why total attendance at Methodist churches surpasses the number of members.

Bob Brown joined five other pastors and laypersons in a Cuba Caravan from the East Central District in a visit to the Holguin and Las Tunas provinces of (eastern) Cuba, February 6-13.  Such trips are licensed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury for religious groups, allowing flights directly from Miami to Cuba.They were hosted by the District Superintendent and visited a number of churches. Coronado has entered a Sister Church relationship with the Merchan church in Las Tunas province, and we hope to have a mission trip to Cuba in the coming year. There are more than 200 Methodist churches in Cuba, and almost 2/3 have sister relationships with Florida Churches. 

Our sister church, Iglesia Metodista of Merchan, is a small congregation pastored by Rebeca Campos Rojas. She is the sister of the woman who founded the church and the wife of the pastor of  Puerto Padre church. Rebeca walks the 9 miles from her home twice a week to minister in Merchan.

Rebeca sent this letter to Bob:

Dear Brother,

Our church in Merchan greets you, your family and your congregation. We are grateful for your visit. This humble village has been praying for you. And we know that the brotherhood we have just established will last.

I am contacting you by e-mail that belongs to a member of Puerto Padre church; you can send news to us here.

 I reiterate that it was a blessing to have you with us, above all, in united worship, where many brothers were baptized. Danier, the son of my sister [the former pastor], was very impressed by your love for us.

 My husband, the pastor of Puerto Padre, greets you and your congregation; and our two congregations send greetings also.

 In the love of the Lord,

 Rebeca Campos Rojas
 Pastor in Merchan