Faith in Action Ignites Powerful Results
Blessing others has always been central to Osmani’s journey. So, when he discovered a theology course filled with rich Biblical teachings, he felt a clear calling—to equip pastors and leaders with a stronger foundation in God’s Word. He envisioned implementing a theology program that would prepare graduates for active ministry and empower them to serve the Lord in meaningful and impactful ways.
To teach and guide others, Osmani first needed to earn his doctorate degree. In 2011, he was invited to pursue his doctorate in theology at the North Carolina College of Theology. Two years later, Osmani became the first Cuban and Latino to earn a doctorate from the university. With the support of leaders from the Church of Cuba and his relationship with Honoring the Father in the U.S., he established Honoring the Father (HTF) University on the island.
HTF University offers three theology degrees: associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s. The bachelor’s and master’s degree programs are designed to equip pastors for leadership and teaching. The associate’s degree is tailored for anyone actively serving God who wants to grow in ministry. To earn a master’s, a student must complete the first two degrees. However, with certain qualifications, a student can excel directly to a master’s degree. A new class begins approximately every two years and eight months, with only one class in session at a time.
Graduates must fulfill certain minimum requirements to receive their degree. In their obedience to God’s calling to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, many students exceed the minimum requirements, which include the following:
Master’s:
- Disciple 8 people in person, show evidence, and gain leader verification
- Complete 300 hours of evangelism
- Plant at least 2 home churches with at least 12 people in each church
- Implement 1 ministry with over 20 members
Bachelor’s:
- Disciple 2 people in person, show evidence, and gain leader verification
- Complete 100 hours of evangelism
- Plant at least 1 home church with at least 12 people
Associate’s:
- Disciple 2 people in person, show evidence, and gain leader verification
- Complete 100 hours of evangelism
Students gather approximately every 45 days at a regional classroom location for in-person learning. While HTF University offers education at no cost, transportation remains the greatest challenge for students. The journey can be far, and gas is not only expensive but often hard to find. One pastor travels between 10-14 hours just to attend.
To help support in-person learning, Osmani’s church generously donates food, coffee, and water. Some pastors also bring what they can—like coffee, rice, and beans—and even help with transportation so fellow leaders can join the learning experience. It’s a beautiful example of a community coming together to support one another in their shared calling.
Over the three academic class sessions, the materials used and program delivery have evolved. The first class before COVID-19 received printed books. After the pandemic, most content shifted to digital. Students can now complete their homework and papers through WhatsApp and access course content on a laptop. Even with this digital evolution, one thing remains on paper—every graduate receives a printed diploma to honor their achievement.
Three classes have resulted in 226 graduates, some of whom have received multiple degrees. In the first academic year, 25 graduated with either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. Osmani grew the attendance of the second class because many graduates from the first class could serve on staff. The second class started with 110 and 97 graduated. Finally, the third class launched with 128 students.
Knowledge is power. And putting knowledge in action is even more powerful, which led to an incredible impact across the island with:
- 107 home churches planted, gathering weekly to celebrate and worship God
- 32 new ministries launched
- 9,319 souls received Jesus
- 355 people baptized
- 620 new disciples brought closer to God
- 27,685 hours dedicated to sharing the Gospel with others
Also, because the university welcomes leaders from all denominations, their diverse backgrounds unify and enrich the experience for all. Pastors and leaders may enter the program with different perspectives, but they find common ground when they turn to the Bible for guidance. Through this shared experience, they grow together, learn from one another, and strengthen the church as a whole.
Osmani never imagined the countless lives that would be changed or the communities transformed through higher learning and faithful action when the university began. As the economic crisis continues across the island, the need for Christ grows stronger each day. And the Church of Cuba stands ready to equip leaders and pastors—helping them share the Gospel and raise up even more disciples.
A Bible verse that has guided Osmani through the establishment of the HTF University is Jeremiah 9:23-24. When pastors and leaders deepen their knowledge of God, they grow closer to Him, and in turn, they’re able to guide others in growing closer to God, too.