Atulado Ministries, Author at Atulado Ministries

After the success of the powdered milk project, we knew we had a replicable strategy with any resource to equip pastors and leaders to share the Gospel. Not only were they eager for more, but they were also ready to touch more lives. And just like He has so many times before in this ministry, God showed up—this time through a connection that would prove to be a true game-changer.

A mutual friend introduced me to Jeff and Suzanne Yoh, founders of Servants With a Heart. What began as an exploratory conversation about fortified rice and Cuba quickly became something more. Servants With a Heart wanted to add a partner to their fortified rice ministry, and thanks to the powdered milk project and our export license, we had a distribution strategy in Cuba to make it possible. Our missing piece was something meaningful to ship to the hundreds of churches across the island, and Servants With a Heart had that exact puzzle piece ready to go.

From our initial meeting on August 28, 2024, we shipped our first 11,520 pounds of rice into Cuba six weeks later, and it was delivered to the church in Havana in 34 days. Remarkable!

We quickly realized that when a 40-foot container arrives, it’s an overwhelming amount for a church to manage. Since the larger container is the most cost-effective, we needed a staging location to separate and distribute the resources across the island. To meet this need, the Atulado family is in the process of securing a house in Havana. This home will serve multiple purposes. It will store ministry supplies, offer shelter to leaders when needed, and function as our logistical hub. Also, it’s located right next door to a key leader in the church who will faithfully oversee the property and manage the resources

Since then, we’ve completed two more shipments—bringing the total to nearly 100,000 pounds of fortified rice. That’s enough for 610,848 servings packed with 21 essential vitamins and minerals, all nine amino acids, and 11 grams of protein.

To stay connected to the impact of the rice project, we created a WhatsApp group where today, over 70 pastors and leaders share photos, stories, and testimonies of how God is using and blessing this project. Through their updates, we witness both the hard realities of life in Cuba and the deep joy that comes when food arrives. The leaders in our distribution network know their communities intimately, allowing rice to reach even the smallest towns and the most vulnerable people. These meals help nourish children’s growth and provide essential nutrition for the elderly—one delivery at a time.

Leaders have shared the many creative ways they’ve prepared the fortified rice to serve their communities. Some add vegetables, garlic, and onion to create a hearty soup, especially beneficial for the elderly. When available, chicken is added. Others prepare congrí—a traditional Cuban dish made with black beans, peppers, onions, garlic, and seasonings like cumin. One pastor mentioned sautéing the rice and mixing it with whatever ingredients were on hand. They also make flavorful broths and soups with seasonal vegetables and serve them alongside a salad.

Remarkably, it costs the Atulado family less than three cents per serving today to deliver this food to the door of someone in need. The Servants With a Heart family donates the fortified rice packets, which cost 17 cents per serving today. To put it in perspective, could you walk into a grocery store with just $1.55 in your pocket and buy a pound of vitamin-rich, protein-packed rice and ship it to Cuba? Through God’s provision, we can.

This project reminds me of the Bible verse James 2:15-16. While it literally nourishes thousands, it also opens doors for the Church in Cuba to share the Gospel and offer the “Bread of Life.” So many people are nourished, and souls are coming to Christ.

– Wayne S.

Read some of the stories and testimonials shared by pastors and leaders from this project:

“Your work has greatly impacted the Jiguaní community, especially the elderly, AIDS patients, people with diabetes, children, and low-income families who are grateful for the rice they receive. A bedridden man whose daughter takes care of him told me it relieves his pain. I have an autistic granddaughter who likes to eat it without any preparation.

I also met a couple in the city dump looking for old sacks to carry coal. They live in a remote area and are very poor. They accepted the Lord and want to open their home to a prayer group.”

– Pastor Raulide from Gramma Province in the Jiguani community

“This blessing has reached people in need, especially the elderly, the sick, and the bedridden. We haven’t just delivered the rice; we’ve taken advantage of the moment and brought them the message of salvation, showing them the love and goodness of God.”

– Pastor Niuvis from Santiago de Cuba

“The rice has been a blessing—reaching the marginalized, sick, and those in need has impacted my life. Like manna from heaven, many have accepted Jesus. The distribution gave people purpose and made them feel blessed when they handed out the rice. We have seen the need for Jesus Christ and gratitude. We’ve shared rice with people outside the church, mainly underweight children, and many are thankful to God.”

– Pastor Alexi from Gramma

“Thank God and you for this ministry. I had two people receive this blessing: a man in a wheelchair who had five blood clots and was very dehydrated because he could not eat much and a blind person in a precarious condition. When the fortified rice arrived, we saw the sky open and the glory of God with respect to our prayers. Like everyone else, we, as pastors, were going through the test somehow. We fed our parishioners and our community by providing each one package of rice according to the families.”

– Pastor Juan from Havana

“The rice has been a tremendous blessing for everyone. We distributed it all! Just yesterday, a neighbor who is not a Christian but sick and does not go out on the street asked me if there was more and how much it cost. We took advantage of this question and shared God’s word with her!”

– Pastor Dianelis from Santiago de Cuba

Wayne’s first mission trip with Osmani was in October 2011. They were visiting pastors, praying with them, offering encouragement, and building relationships with their church and their families. On this particular trip, Osmani introduced him to Javiel Vento García and his wife, Yanaisy Cordero Álvarez, from Vinales, and their sons Javiel (Javielito) Vento Cordero and Caleb Vento Cordero. After an encouraging visit and meeting with their family, Wayne asked if he could take a photograph of them in front of Javiel and Yanaisy’s home. What started as one visit became many, and a deep friendship has flourished over the years. With each visit, a tradition began of photographing the family in front of their house as the family has grown, including the addition of Jonathan Vento Cordero, now six years old. From the start, both families felt God brought them together for His purpose.

For Javiel and Yanaisy, Yanaisy was the first to accept Christ as her Lord and Savior after her mother came to Christ. She invited Javiel to church, and he soon began attending. Already married with their first son, they committed their lives to God and were baptized together. Since their baptism over twenty years ago, they’ve walked faithfully with the Lord together from that moment on. Though their journey was far from easy, they trusted in the Lord, and He always provided.

As Javiel and Yanaisy grew in their faith, they immersed themselves in studying the Bible and learning about Jesus. Javiel took on leadership roles within their local church, attending workshops and seminars to strengthen his ability to serve. His pastor also sometimes entrusted him with sharing God’s Word at services, and he began training under his pastor and became a missionary.

With full hearts ready to serve the Lord, the couple faced many challenges in starting a new church—beginning with not knowing how to establish a church. This cultivated a deep trust in the Lord from day one of their ministry. Another challenge was finding a home to have church services as well. So, they traveled back and forth from Puerto Esperanza to Vinales, about a 45-minute drive, for three years, gathering with people in small cell groups to worship and build their ministry.

During those long three years and much prayer, Javiel and Yanaisy found a lot to build a home and a place to worship. He talked to the official responsible for building permits, and the building officials granted permission to build a home.

They purchased the land, built a small wooden home, and still live there today. Initially, they lacked the funds to pay for the land and construction materials, but members of their old church and others in Christ equipped them with the essential resources, a true testament to God’s unwavering provision.

The original structure of the house was small, with a tiny kitchen, no refrigerator, and two bedrooms. It also served as their house church, with worship services sometimes held outside in the front yard. At night, they illuminated the sky with lights to worship as it grew dark. Javiel and Yanaisy trusted God would provide what they needed in His perfect timing.

Then, one day, Osmani brought Wayne to visit, and eventually, Renee traveled to meet the family, and a beautiful friendship began. Moved by the family’s living conditions and the sacrifices they made for their ministry, the Atualdo family helped fund an expansion, adding a third bedroom, a larger living area for worship services, and a bathroom for the congregation. Yet even with the renovations, Javiel and Yanaisy continued living simply, as they do today, using only two bedrooms and the kitchen—dedicating the rest of their home to the church. Bonded by faith and a genuine connection, both families have shared countless meals, laughter, and prayers over the years.

“We’ve forged many relationships in Cuba, but the Lord brought this family into our lives for a reason.”

– Renee S.

What started as 40 people gathering has grown into a thriving church of about 210 people and 50 children. Their church, Truth and Love, is part of the Cuba Evangelical League Church. The ministry reaches people of all ages with worship, dance, drama, and mission’s programs. The mission’s ministry travels to different areas, sharing the Gospel to help establish small groups.

The whole family is deeply involved in the ministry. While Yanaisy devotes much of her time to caring for their youngest, she also visits congregation members when Javiel travels. Their older son serves as a co-pastor, while their middle son is on the worship team.

Javiel’s leadership role has also expanded, and he mentors over eight pastors in the area. He helps them spread the Gospel, start new churches, and minister to their congregation. By building relationships with the pastors and their families, Javiel and Yanaisy become their family in Christ. They not only serve as role models but also learn and grow in their own faith alongside those they guide.

Javiel’s favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:13.

“I identify with this verse since, as Paul, I have learned to live with any situation, not looking to my adversities but keeping my focus on Christ Jesus.”

– Javiel

Yanaisy’s favorite Bible verse is Psalm 91.

“It reminds me that I will always be protected by Him and free from all plagues. He is a refuge, a dwelling place for our family. I can trust in Him. It brings me peace to know this truth.”

– Yanaisy

Do you remember the first time God spoke to you? Maybe it was a quiet stirring in your heart during prayer or meditation, or perhaps His voice came through loud and clear, urging you to take action on something in your life. God speaks to us in many ways. For Jennifer Sosa Alvarez, God spoke to her at just eight years old, setting the course for her life in a profound way.

Jennifer, now 18, comes from a family deeply rooted in faith and ministry. We’ve previously shared her father Osmani’s story, an integral part of the Atulado ministry, and featured her sister Daniela. A few months after Jennifer was born, her parents began a sports ministry to share the Gospel, which eventually led to starting a church in their home. Inspired by their example, her faith journey began when she was young.

Jennifer has been actively involved in church life and ministry for as long as she can remember, with her parents providing her opportunities to grow her faith, learn about God, and get involved in church. Her parents have not only encouraged her faith journey through conversations about serving the Lord but also by modeling it through their actions and teachings. Today, Jennifer works in children’s and teen’s ministry, leads teams, and plays the piano on the worship team. This year, she plans to begin her seminary studies, furthering her dedication to serving the Lord and deepening her faith.

One night, when Jennifer was eight, her mother told her a story about a missionary girl, which resonated with her. Inspired by the story, Jennifer wanted to be like the girl. The very next day, God revealed to her that she would become a missionary. This calling ignited her passion for learning new languages and deepening her knowledge of God’s Word. From that moment on, Jennifer was eager to join her mother and father on missionary trips.

Since then, Jennifer has joined her parents on many mission trips across Cuba, bringing hope, sharing God’s Word, offering encouragement and prayer, and providing much-needed resources. On many of these trips, she’s experienced first-hand how God works powerfully through her father to touch lives. Many face very tough situations, and the simple act of visiting them and investing time in them and their family is incredibly uplifting and encouraging. Afterward, pastors and leaders are ready to continue their mission of serving God and their communities.

After many mission trips in Cuba, Jennifer joined Osmani along with Wayne on her first international mission trip to Kenya last summer. They visited a United Nations refugee camp where Osmani taught pastors and leaders about the Bible, prayed with people, and offered encouragement. From the moment their car passed through the camp gates, Jennifer felt God’s presence in a profound way but had no way of knowing how it would impact her in the days to come.

Jennifer devoted her time to the children, teaching them about Jesus Christ, sharing God’s love, and playing games. Their eagerness and hunger to learn about Jesus deeply moved her. The entire experience was life-changing—not only because it was her first time outside of Cuba but because it confirmed her calling. Witnessing her father teach the Bible and spending meaningful time with the people, she felt God’s undeniable pull on her heart to become a missionary.

She returned to Cuba driven to study the Bible harder, read it cover to cover, and with more intention. She also focused on improving her English skills, including mastering its idioms, to better equip herself for future ministry and service to others.

While Osmani has been a powerful influence on Jennifer’s life and spiritual journey, so has her mother, Geidy. Geidy’s passion for children’s ministry has shaped Jennifer’s love for working with children. She has taught Jennifer how to effectively engage children and capture their attention to share the message of Jesus. Jennifer is especially moved by children’s honesty, sincerity, and unwavering faith, which she finds unique compared to adult ministry. Their genuine appreciation for learning about God and wholehearted belief in His word fills her heart with joy. When children from church run up to her on the street with big hugs, it reaffirms her calling. Without Geidy’s example and her dedication to blessing children, Jennifer’s path might have been different.

After her seminary studies, Jennifer’s open to wherever God may call her heart to go, whether in Cuba or internationally. Jennifer is passionate about sharing the Bible and praying over children and teens around the world.

Jennifer’s favorite Bible verse is Daniel 12:3, a scripture God revealed to her when she needed it most.

“Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.”

“I was facing a hard time, feeling unimportant and bad about myself. God gave me that verse to remind me of my value as His daughter. The verse came alive, and I knew my calling was to teach others and spread the Good News.”

– Jennifer A.

This picture captures an incredible moment for Jennifer. All the boy wanted was a uniform so he could go to school. She was overwhelmed when she gave him a uniform.

When you talk to people in Cuba, they share their blessings rather than challenges, radiating a positive outlook that inspires others. When we created the itemized shipping list for the export license, wedding dresses weren’t originally on the list—after all, the need for essentials like food and medicine is so great. Yet, God has a way of connecting people and placing the right tools in the right hands to fulfill His greater purpose.

Don and Sally Meredith founded Christian Family Life in 1971. The young couple quickly learned marriage was challenging, so they turned to Scripture, which transformed their marriage. Peers took notice, resulting in a book, Two Becoming One, numerous speaking conferences, and inspired a fellow mentee couple to establish a weekend retreat. In 1981, they created a course based on the book’s content, and the ministry began international expansion.

The ministry expanded into Cuba through Darrel Wright, when he met denominational leaders who shared that their greatest need was strengthening the marriages of pastors and lay leaders. After visiting Cuba in 2006, Don put resources into translating the book and curriculum into Spanish. He began preparing for a marriage conference when paths crossed with Roland and Tammy Martinez, and Don invited Roland to translate for the Cuba conference in 2009. The couple’s Cuban heritage and Roland’s cultural knowledge and language fit well. In 2015, Roland formally assumed the role of president of Christian Family Life. The Cuban ministry now covers the entire island, with key couples leading in each of the 16 provinces.

Since both organizations operate an established ministry in Cuba, mutual investors introduced Roland to Wayne, Atulado’s Executive Director. Ever since, the two have collaborated on ideas and thoughts about the island. Roland keeps up with Atulado through the monthly newsletter and learned about the recent export license.

When Roland first traveled to Cuba to translate for the conference, he learned that many couples don’t marry in Cuban culture, and financial challenges often prevent them from having a wedding or celebration. Without a role model of marriage for people to follow and living under oppressive conditions and a housing shortage, it’s common for three to four generations to live together. Christian Family Life believes marriage is crucial. By strengthening marriages, families and communities are strengthened.

Therefore, as part of the first conference in 2009, a recommitment ceremony was held for the couples. The women dressed in traditional wedding gowns and were supported by other women as they prepared for their special moment. Their reactions were deeply moving, with many crying tears of joy over what the ceremony meant to them. A wedding gown is more than just a dress—it has a greater purpose to unite people and provide a beacon of hope and happiness amid daily challenges.

The ministry started acquiring wedding dresses and taking them into Cuba as part of the Two Becoming One program. In 2015, a bridal shop in California went out of business and donated 80 dresses to the program. With no way to ship 80 dresses to Cuba, Roland and others going to the island would fill their duffel bags with as many gowns as they could carry onto the plane. So, they took 80 dresses to Cuba over a nine-year period.

Getting resources into the island has been challenging for Christian Family Life for years, which resulted in some donations being denied. Storing an inventory of gowns and the slow process of getting them to Cuba can be costly and time-consuming. However, working with Atulado to send wedding dresses through the export license changes everything for the ministry and those receiving them.

For example, Roland received a call with a donation of 240 wedding dresses. Knowing he could ship them using the license, he accepted. The wedding dresses will arrive soon in Cuba, bringing hope and joy to many newlyweds beginning their lives together in Holy matrimony. What once took nine years to deliver 80 will take just weeks to deliver 240 wedding gowns.

This shipment will be delivered to Havana and distributed to local churches in most of the 16 provinces. By equipping local churches, pastors and leaders can embrace opportunities to share the Gospel with more people. One pastor, for example, was marrying six couples—a common practice is to marry more than one couple due to the cost. Before the formal ceremony began, he led the couples, dressed in their wedding attire, on a walk through the village. By the time they arrived back at the church, they had attracted a crowd of curious onlookers. The pastor used this moment to share the Gospel with everyone in attendance, impacting the newlyweds and the community in which they live.

While shipping resources has become easier, the ministry still faces hurdles similar to the challenges other ministries in Cuba face. Years of work on the island have fostered strong relationships with trusted, vetted leaders. However, the mass exodus of people fleeing the island’s dire circumstances has reduced the number of people on the island with whom they have long-term relationships. Also, a recent mission trip was canceled due to power outages. Undeterred, Roland made the trip anyway to deliver resources and support leaders. Equipping and empowering those who remain on the island is vital to continuing the mission and transforming communities.

If you don’t have a car, do you need a driver’s license? That’s the situation we faced when obtaining Atulado’s export license. The license itself was useless without a destination agent to receive the shipment and get it out of Cuban Customs. Individuals aren’t allowed to receive shipments—only registered businesses and churches aren’t registered businesses. This meant we needed someone in Cuba who understood the process and could act as an authorized recipient. An answer to prayer came through a connection with knowledge of The Ministry of Foreign Trade.

This vital connection was essential to move forward, and God led us to Yamilé, an administrator for a denomination in Cuba. She specializes in helping churches receive shipments through freight forwarders and shipping companies and managing procedures with several companies that have methods established for religious institutions. Yamilé not only assisted us in navigating the process but also introduced us to a shipping partner capable of sending less-than-container-load (LCL) shipments to Cuba.

Through this connection and Yamilé, we can deliver more tools and resources to pastors and church leaders, empowering them to share the Gospel and grow His Kingdom. Now, we invite you to learn more about Yamilé and her incredible journey that brought her to this work.

Yamilé Díaz Habderrasul and her husband, Angel Esteban Bles Batista, have been married for eight years. They live in Havana. Yamilé has two adult sons, Julio Cesar Figueredo Díaz and Alejandro Figueredo Díaz. Both are married, and Yamilé has two grandchildren from her eldest son, Julito. Yamilé serves as the secretary and deaconess of her church. Angel serves as a praise leader at their church, called El Calvario. He has been a tour guide in Havana since 2015, using his fluent English to connect with visitors.

Yamilé’s journey to loving Christ unfolded in an unexpected way. She felt she needed to experience His love, forgiveness, and mercy. Although Yamilé had been introduced to the Word of God before, she had never embraced it.

One day at work, she began receiving e-mails with Biblical verses and worship songs. At first, Yamilé deleted them, until one day, something changed—Yamilé decided to read the message, listen to the songs, and reflect on the Bible verses. She had no idea how she ended up on the e-mail list, but with each passing day, her curiosity grew.

Then, one day, at a hairdresser’s house, Yamilé discovered that people gathered there to deepen their faith and learn about God. The hairdresser shared with her about Jesus Christ, and another woman offered a powerful testimony of the Lord’s work in her life. From that moment on, the Lord has guided her in service and work, shaping her path and purpose.

Since then, Yamilé has engaged in Bible studies to deepen her faith and knowledge. Yamilé leads a women’s intercession group at her church. She attributes her calling to the Holy Spirit, who has guided her to work with imports and container logistics for humanitarian aid since May 2017.

Yamilé works full-time in the offices of the Superintendencies of the National Office of the Evangelical Pentecostal Church of Cuba and the Assemblies of God. Initially, she worked as secretary of the superintendent before transitioning to a position in the commercial activity of humanitarian aid imports. There, she made several missionary trips to different provinces of Cuba with her husband, taking humanitarian aid to other provinces. Currently, Yamilé supports four other churches and ministries in this critical mission, which has become a blessing for both the churches and communities in Havana and other provinces in Cuba.

However, this work comes with many obstacles. Not only is each import challenging because the church that wants to send resources isn’t designed for commercial activity, but receiving resources in Cuba undergoes various hurdles. Depending on the assortment of supplies, you can face many procedures, approvals, and permits needed.

Transportation is another obstacle. Sometimes, there is no transportation to transport the container from the port of Mariel to the unloading place. If this transportation doesn’t exist, an expense is incurred, and it can be costly for a vehicle to transport the container to different customs agencies, companies, port offices, and airports when importing by air. Plus, fuel is scarce, impacting the container’s ability to reach its destination.

Errors in documentation received from the country of origin can occur with problems in the type of packaging and declared quantities. When inspected, they may find missing or excess products, lack of technical information, and goods not declared in the documents from origin, as just a few examples. Unfortunately, these complications lead to confiscation.

Yamilé’s extensive knowledge of the process, exceptional communication skills, and meticulous attention to detail all help successfully get a container released into the country—with God’s presence in every step. Various documentary procedures must be carried out from the origin to the final destination in Cuba. The entity sending the container must request permission through a letter signed and stamped by the national presidents of each denomination and get registered In the Ministry of Justice. The letter is presented to authorities that handle the Religious Affairs of the Council of State. Once this approval is issued, various documents such as shipping documents (either via air or sea), commercial invoices, packing lists, SATSA proforma, itemized list of merchandise, type of transport, carrier, place of unloading, and the final destination are presented to Customs SATSA and Customs Control. Various procedures happen to request permits depending on the kind of merchandise inside the container. According to the Cuban company that issues authorization, Customs inspects each container. Although working in the import business has challenges, Yamilé finds her work deeply rewarding.

“I marvel at the Grace of God, His power, and how He orchestrates everything in a miraculous way for the good of His people. These shipments greatly impact many churches and communities throughout Cuba. All work in commercial activity, import, and logistics of containers is thanks to God, his guidance and help in everything.”

With God by her side and Angel’s support, Yamilé knows anything is possible. She and Angel share in God’s miracles, pray together, and encourage one another through life’s blessings and hardships. Yamilé cherishes fellowship with friends and other church members while also valuing quiet moments of worship alone. She finds peace in being still with the Lord, listening to worship songs, and reflecting on His Word by reading the Bible.

Since the ministry’s founding in 2017, the Atualdo family has come together many times to support those who share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As we embarked on the latest project, I never imagined that equipping pastors with powdered milk as a resource would change everything. It not only became the tool pastors and leaders desperately desired to impact many lives, but it also established a replicable strategy for the future, no matter the resource or tool.

Early in the summer, we decided to focus on a distribution of powdered milk and planned to deliver 130,000 glasses of milk across 75 churches, allowing them to serve over 200 glasses per week on Sundays, during weekday events, and during sports ministry activities this summer. The government provides milk on an age basis, but you are no longer eligible once you turn three. More people drink powdered milk, referring to it as “white gold” because it’s hard to find and unaffordable. Because milk is essential to everyone’s nutrition—children, the elderly, anyone ill, and even healthy people—we decided to equip pastors with powdered milk. Also, since it needs no refrigeration, storage and transport are easy.

Like the previous water filter project, which served as an evangelistic tool, our plan involved equipping pastors who already had a Sawyer water filter with powdered milk and making the church a resource for the community across the island.

Led by pastor Oskel, in central Cuba, a distribution strategy was established to equip more pastors and share as much powdered milk with as many people as possible. Thanks to the distribution strategy in place and the leaders’ deep passion and eagerness for sharing the Gospel as the hands and feet of Christ, they reached even more people with a tool to do so. They fully embraced it, made it their own, and discovered new ways to reach people.

Countless pastors shared their gratitude for the powdered milk and how it impacted people in their community. One pastor made the milk, stopped people on the street to share the Gospel, and provided them with nourishment, spiritually and physically. Pastors have met other pastors they’ve never met, forming a connection and bond moving forward. People in hospital wards, the elderly, and children have all been impacted. Even the delivery driver came to Christ! Hundreds of pictures and stories of happiness were shared. Even more, I learned that if you just put something in the hands of those hungry for an evangelistic tool, they WILL make it work. And that’s just what they did.

Along with the countless stories of impact that poured in, we delivered over four tons (more than 8,600 lbs.) of white gold to 26 pastors. By Oskel’s calculations, these pastors distributed nearly 140,000 glasses of milk, sharing God’s love with over 15,000 people. He also shared that 1 kg of powdered milk can provide for a family of four for over 20 days. However, such a measurement falls short because God’s love is beyond measure!

Read some of the stories and testimonials shared by pastors and leaders from this project:

“After we gave this family, who has a child with kidney problems, milk, they began attending one of our cells (small groups) in that neighborhood.”

“We give grace to the ministry. With so much love, you gave us this packet of powdered milk to feed our baby.”

“This lady is very sick and lives with her husband, who is also ill. When I offered her a bag of powdered milk because she hadn’t had any for a long time, she began crying. She said that she didn’t deserve the milk and insisted it should go to people who are more needy.”

“She is a Christian, a doctor, and a specialist in pulmonology. She is very passionate and concerned about her patients and suffers when she knows that they are in the terminal phase. She testifies that she thanks God for the blessing she has received, knowing that God answers her requests, without knowing that she would be blessed with bags of milk. When she received the milk, she began to cry, declaring God fulfills his promises.”

One pastor is distributing powdered milk glass by glass to touch as many lives as possible and share the love of Christ with them. I believe he upgraded the milk by adding some chocolate.

Pastor Alfredo walks the street with the milk. This gentleman, along with many other elderly people, received a fresh.

“This lady passed by my house today selling beans to feed her mother, who is 89 years old and bedridden. She is not from Bayamo but from a municipality. She left her home at 4 in the morning, and it was three in the afternoon. She had not eaten anything and had to return home. Her eyes filled with tears when she saw the milk, and I was able to bring her the message of salvation.”

“Vacilio is 80 years old, blind, and has no family to help care for him. A few weeks ago, he passed by our house, and we went out to meet him and offered him help. Yesterday, we saw him again, gave him milk, and he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior. This moment was shocking for us. God continues to do wonders, and this project allows the love of God to impact everyone.”

– Wayne S.

Do you remember the day you first believed in Jesus? People are introduced to Jesus in various ways—by their parents or someone else, during a moment in worship, or sometimes at a special event. For Alberto Martinez Rodríguez, a brave Christian and a fundamental moment set the foundation for his belief in Christ.

Alberto and his wife, Josefa Atie Caseros, have been married for 28 years, and while they have no biological children, the Lord has blessed them with many children to disciple. His pleasant humor and infectious smile naturally draw you to him when you meet him. Despite being paralyzed and permanently in a wheelchair after being stabbed while protecting his wife, he radiates joy that’s an inspiration for others.

Like many people in Cuba, Alberto worshiped idols before he gave his life to Christ. He wore certain clothes made of sack, a headpiece like a red heart, and a necklace dedicated to idols. Then, one day, Alberto encountered a man who shared the Gospel and told him that Jesus loved him. Alberto laughed because his lifestyle didn’t reflect the things he felt warranted that love. When Alberto shared that with the man, the man said that for those same reasons, Jesus loves you and wants to change your life to make you a better man. Alberto asked what he and Josefa had to do to receive Jesus. The man led them in a prayer of repentance, asking Jesus to come into their life. They turned from their idols and accepted God as their only Savior and only God. Then, they returned home and burned the clothes and broke the covenants made with demons.

However, the process of becoming a Christian wasn’t easy. Alberto continued his lifestyle habits with other men in front of the church that same day. When the church service started, they sang as they used to for demons. He even encouraged the men to sing louder, which was disruptive. When the church service finished and the people came out, they said hello to Alberto, took his hand, and said God bless you. They welcomed and accepted him regardless of how he worshiped before or his lifestyle habits. The love that shone in their eyes touched his heart and was a pivotal moment that shaped his faith. Then, a lady from the community who knew him well shouted that he didn’t believe in God like her. He responded by telling her he became a Christian that day. That’s how his walk with Jesus started, and he’s walked with Jesus ever since.

A pastor started discipling him, sharing the Bible, praying with him, and he attended church to learn about God. Another influential experience in his journey happened one day when he started praying. A vision of a serpent appeared and came close to him. It moved so quickly that he took a machete, and when he turned to look for the serpent, it wasn’t there. The following week, Alberto went to church to fast with a visiting pastor who talked about the power of fasting. The pastor talked about how fasting changes lives, can restore lives, and people can receive healing. So, Alberto went home and fasted for seven days, which became one of the best weeks of his life because he was full of the Holy Spirit.

Alberto became closer to God, more obedient in worship, and acknowledged God at home and in his marriage. Being strongly founded in God, he and his wife became disciples at church, preached on the streets, and got baptized. Then, they started a cell group (small worship group) and opened their home to neighbors who started coming for God’s glory. One group multiplied into five other cell groups and, finally, 72 cell groups. Alberto praised God for this blessing. When he started attending church, the congregation was around 20 members. He led evangelism, and his pastor saw how Alberto was a shining light in the community as many people started attending church. He eventually became the co-pastor and a leader in charge of opening new churches. He also helped prepare many couples and men to be missionaries in other denominations.

Alberto has dedicated his life to evangelism and discipling people for over 12 years. He and Josefa have traveled to many places, preaching in the streets and holding events to share the Gospel with people. Being an inspiring leader and speaker, he attracted crowds at his events. At one event, he led around 1,000 people to Christ in 18 days. Many people said they came to see the man in the wheelchair.

Today, Alberto’s church, Restoration and Revival, LE C, has about 60 members, where he works to nurture their spiritual growth. While he and Josefa aren’t traveling to other areas, they work to start missions and small churches in their community. Josefa is his support in prayer, ministry, and life. She preaches when Alberto is sick, leads children’s Bible study, leads a women’s group, and visits church members. She helps care for Alberto and supports the ministry. Josefa and their daughter in Christ mean everything to Alberto.

After Albert was paralyzed and lost his father in a flood, Psalm 27 came to mind. He started reciting that verse, which filled him with inspiration and comfort. Now, anytime he feels sad, lost, or alone, he recites it aloud.

Pastor Abel Pérez Mederos and his wife, Diana Torres Reyes, are two of the humblest people you’ll ever meet. Married for almost thirty years, they view challenges and hardships as opportunities and always face them with a smile. For instance, they consider caring for family not as a chore but as a privilege. They’ve cared for her 57-year-old uncle with Down syndrome, who is now facing dementia, for many years. Also, her mom lives with them. Beyond her mom and uncle, they have two grown daughters, Dayany and Daniela, and two grandchildren.

Diana said, “Living with him and mom is a blessing. We thank God for all the years He has allowed us to have him. We’re having a hard time because of the dementia. He doesn’t know us sometimes, but he does at other times. God gives us strength.”

To be so grounded in their faith, one would think they’ve always known the Lord. But that’s not their story, and interestingly, it didn’t start with Abel.

Diana was stressed, depressed, and very nervous all the time because she struggled with her father-in-law’s past alcoholism issues. Two missionaries came into town and had a small church. Diana’s daughter started attending church with a neighbor. Their daughter shared how they pray for sick people at church, and many were healed. This sparked Diana’s curiosity, so she went to church the following Sunday, too. She opened her heart to Jesus Christ and confessed to Him as the Lord and Savior at that service.

After that service, she attended every Sunday, was passionate about God, and prayed. While everything seemed perfect, she still felt something needed to change. God spoke to her about forgiving her father-in-law. She listened, and as soon as she forgave him, her stress, depression, and anxiety disappeared. She hasn’t felt the same way since then.

A month later, Abel joined her at church and took his vows. Initially, coming to church was challenging for him. He struggled with past sins and his current lifestyle despite having accepted Jesus Christ. Nevertheless, he maintained faith in God. Then, one day, his friends said that he wasn’t living as a Christian but was going to church. He responded that he wasn’t Christian and wasn’t attending church. God spoke to him at that moment, and a Bible verse came to mind.

The verse was Matthews 10:33, “But whoever denies me before people I, too, will deny before my Father in heaven.”

Abel was ashamed of going to church and didn’t want to accept his Christianity to his friends. But this pivotal moment changed everything for Abel. He felt proud. The Holy Spirit transformed his heart, confirmed his decision, and guided him to work for God full-time.

They became Christians 18 years ago and have served as pastors for over 14 years. Their ministry includes outreach, evangelism on the streets, and visiting people in Christ with thirty-five congregation members as part of their church. They hold a Sunday service, a men’s service once a week, fasting and prayer on Wednesdays, and lead many local groups called cells to spread God’s Word further in the community.

Abel and Diana are a true team in marriage and ministry. Abel is never alone in serving God and leading the church. They visit the elderly, congregation members, and nonbelievers to share the Word and bless others in the community. Also, Diana leads a women’s ministry where she holds services for women and times of prayer. She also leads a children’s ministry.

After Diana began serving God full-time, she discovered her talent for baking. A true gift from God, this talent allowed them to sell cakes to support themselves and bless others by making their special occasions memorable. It started with selling cakes to other families at their daughter’s school. After the girls graduated from school and with the rise of social media and technology, she began posting photos of her exquisite designs for people to request a custom cake.

When the equipment for baking breaks, Abel’s resourcefulness gets her baking business back up and running quickly. Recently, the oven needed fixing. Abel originally crafted this oven with pieces from other cooking equipment. He needed a part, so he looked on the black market. He couldn’t find the exact item he needed but found a part he could use to adjust and make it work.

Diana said, “We try to take advantage of what we have and make it work for what we want. God is always with us, opening doors for us. He gave my husband the wisdom to keep the business going and for us to continue surviving.”

As with many things they do together, they dream and plan for the future of the ministry. This summer, they plan to host a large event for kids, including Bible lessons, games, snacks, and more. Looking ahead, they want to spread the Gospel beyond their community by establishing more small groups and missions. Their hearts are set on building and growing God’s Kingdom, and that is precisely what they intend to do.

Most Americans who travel to Cuba stay in a 5-star resort along the breathtaking beaches of the country’s north shore or at the Hotel Nacional in Havana. However, that’s not the real Cuba. I wanted to go on my most recent mission trip to strengthen my faith. While I’ve traveled to Cuba several times, my trip in 2024 revealed something I’d never witnessed.

Inflation averaged 30% per month. The Cuban Peso is nearly worthless in international markets, and the U.S. dollar is the black market currency. Gas is rationed, leading to long lines lasting more than a day. We experienced three random power blackouts. Most public water supplies are not potable, and some are not purified. Every Cuban works directly or indirectly for the government, earns about $30 monthly without inflation protection, and receives free beans and rice. Although healthcare is free, patients must bring syringes and other medical supplies to receive treatment, often preventing them from getting medical care since they can’t access or afford the supplies. Kidney dialysis patients share needles with two others. Standard over-the-counter medications are unavailable. Dentists perform procedures without Novocain, making visits unbearable for patients. Milk is unavailable to anyone over two years old.

Yet, amongst all of the brokenness, we experienced mercy and grace from every angle and were given more spiritual encouragement than we gave. We got to know our host family, who could not have been more accommodating, which inspired me to be more hospitable to strangers. The small house churches of the ten pastors we visited showered us with more hospitality than I felt I deserved. Each one greeted us with hugs and kisses as if we were long, lost friends. But that’s the Cuban culture. Every visit started and ended with prayers in Spanish and English. I’ve found that the experience isn’t about building houses; it’s about building relationships, even though they’re short-term. It’s sharing the Gospel and having the Gospel shared with us. Cubans have an uninhibited way of loving; it’s sincere and genuine.

However, there’s a problem: Christianity isn’t supported by the government, and often, those who want to hear the good news of Jesus’ Gospel are discouraged from sharing it. As our trip ended, I thought of a verse in Bob Dylan’s song entitled “Like a Rolling Stone,” which says, “When you ain’t got nothing, you got nothing to lose.” Cubans have nothing to lose; ninety-nine percent are forever captive to the island. Yet they are very resilient, especially when it comes to living and sharing their faith, which can’t be taken away.

We have so much to be thankful for in America, especially the freedom to worship. The trip fortified my faith as I continued to ask, “What do I have to lose?” I found that I have nothing to lose because “to whom much is given much is expected, and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked” (Luke 12:48). I can live out that verse in the U.S. without ever going on another mission trip to Cuba. Since I’ve been on several trips, I realized that in the future, it may be more about helping others experience Cuba. But for now, I thank God for sending me to Cuba and for the experience of being temporarily captive in another country.

– Sandy W.

Your typical neighborhood grocery store may carry twenty or more types of milk, including dairy and plant-based options. With selections ranging from coconut to almond, soy, 2%, fat-free, organic, chocolate, and beyond, powdered milk might not come to mind when you’re perusing the milk aisle. Yet, for people in Cuba, it’s often the preferred choice over fresh milk. Before delving into why, let’s cover a few things you’re probably wondering about powdered milk and how it stacks up to fresh milk.

What is Powdered Milk?

Powdered milk is the result of evaporating milk until it reaches a dry, powdered form. Even in its dry state, it’s still a dairy product with many benefits and uses. It’s frequently used to make baby formula and candy such as chocolate and caramel and is preferred in certain baked goods recipes where adding liquid milk makes the product too thin. Like fresh milk, powdered milk comes in various fat types, like whole or skim.

Shelf Life & Storage

By processing powdered milk, it extends its useful life. Most manufacturers’ best-by-dates say to use powdered milk within 18 months of purchase once opened. Because of its dry versus liquid state, it can be stored without refrigeration, making it very convenient in many circumstances, like when you only need a small portion, plan to camp or hike, run out of fresh milk, or transport it in an unrefrigerated vehicle. In Cuba, where power outages plague the island, powdered milk is necessary because you don’t have to worry about refrigerating it or milk spoiling during a long blackout.

While a glass of cold, fresh milk pairs well with a sweet treat, the clumpy, sourness of spoiled milk can kill the anticipation of a great bowl of cereal as the clumps topple out of the milk container when you forget to check the date before pouring. Has that happened to you? It’s great while it lasts, and if you get seven days of fresh goodness out of a container, it can feel like you’ve hit a grand slam. Depending on the type of fresh milk you buy, it generally lasts 4-10 days once opened. From there, it must stay refrigerated or get tossed if left unrefrigerated for more than two hours.

Nutrition & Health Benefits

Compared to fresh milk, powdered milk provides A, D, and B vitamins, folic acid, calcium, iron, phosphorus, selenium, and magnesium. It’s also rich in potassium, which is beneficial for circulation for people with hypertension, rheumatism, and arthritis. Powdered milk contains no preservatives. One serving provides 30% of the recommended daily amount of calcium and 10% of vitamin A. While fresh and powdered milk contains similar nutrients, whole-fat powdered milk is recommended for children under the age of two because it contains enough fat for healthy growth.

Powdered milk, like regular milk, supports cardiovascular health, can control cholesterol, and helps strengthen hair, skin, and nails. Milk is extremely important for bone health in children. Drinking milk and consuming dairy products during childhood is necessary for growth development and reduces the risk of osteoporosis, hypertension, obesity, and cancer during adulthood.

Access

In the US, we can drop by the grocery store anytime (as long as the store is open) if we run out of milk and need more. Unfortunately, in Cuba, most people can’t access fresh milk easily, even powdered milk. The government provides powdered milk to children from 0 to 1 year old. The government allows you to purchase milk up to age 7 at a discounted rate. After age 7, the government does not subsidize milk for children. Because powdered milk is so difficult to access, Cubans call it “white gold.”

With the current economy in crisis, mothers of small children who are assigned powdered milk often sell it to purchase other food necessary for their families. Milk can be found in the government MLC stores, which only take US dollars, and people who receive financial help from family and friends in other countries can obtain an MLC card to buy items in the government store. This is very difficult and not easily obtained.

Taste

In Cuba, fresh milk is often watered down to last longer and to sell more. Adding unfiltered water increases the risk of bacteria in the milk, whether it’s fresh or powdered. Cubans clearly prefer making powdered milk not only for its longevity but for its taste. Here in the US, well… we’ll let you grab a container of powdered milk, and you can judge for yourself whether you like the powdered version over fresh. And it never hurts to have a container on your shelf when you’re in a pinch.

Just because most of us in the US are accustomed to fresh milk doesn’t mean powdered milk shouldn’t be a staple on our pantry shelves. When fresh milk isn’t available, powdered milk provides the necessary nutrition benefits. It’s often more convenient, easy to store, and versatile. And, like in Cuba, “white gold” is even preferred over fresh milk. Try it for yourself!

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