CUBA COMMITMENT

CUBA COMMITMENT

We have heard of many Cuban men still being arrested for their preaching and teaching. This is a true story of such a man. Notice though the worst punishment the authorities could think of is taking away his family and his Bible.

In vain, Elsa Morejon, wife of the imprisoned Dr. Oscar Elias Biscet, on June 14 traveled the 768 kilometers from Havana to the “Cuba Si” prison in the eastern province of Holguin. This was her fourth monthly visit. When the three reached the jail, authorities said Dr. Biscet was not available, since he was being punished in an isolation cell for 21 days, barred from seeing anyone. During this time he is denied access to his bible and family visits. The family is allowed to take one bag of food and toiletries each month. Justo Téllez Nápoles, head of prison "reeducation", stating that after 21 days in isolation, the prisoner’s conduct will be evaluated. Dr. Biscet was tried as a common criminal, sentenced to three years in prison, and transferred to "Cuba Sí " prison on the eastern end of the Island. Dr. Biscet declared himself guilty of his crime. He was originally tried and sentenced for holding Bible Studies publicly. Upon his arrival at "Cuba Sí" prison, Dr. Biscet was held in isolation for his refusal to quit holding Bible Studies in jail cells after lights out.

Subsequently, he was denied access to the prison library for his unwillingness to participate in communist political activities. On June 7, 2000 Dr. Biscet declared himself on a 40-day fast honoring a historical fast he successfully promoted a year ago in which hundreds of Baptists’ in the Island united with Cuban exiles abroad to demand freedom for all religious prisoners in Cuba. A fellow prisoner fasting in support of Dr. Biscet has been transferred elsewhere. Apparently afraid that others might join in this peaceful protest, the doctor has been isolated from fellow inmates with whom he had good relations. He was spending his time teaching many of them to read and write with the Bible.

Pray for these men in Cuba. They have needs that many of us can not understand. This is why we want to send in Materials, Bibles, and other Literature so that these men may be encouraged to go on and use these things for their ministries. Persecution is a real threat to many in Cuba. Will you join us in prayer this week for the men of Cuba still preaching the Gospel? This is our commitment this week. Remember our LORD is making the difference! Every week the LORD sends someone my way via e-mail or in person to keep my heart in Cuba. Is HE leading you also? What has the LORD shown you? Would you please let us know – it would encourage our people knowing what God is doing.

In HIS Service,

Travis A. Jones

travis@metrobc.org

cuba@metrobc.org

Metropolitan Baptist Church

6051 Azle Ave.

Ft Worth, TX 76135