The Gifts That Brought a Community Together

Seven years ago, I walked into Shalom Church with my sister, a small house church on the outskirts of Havana. Back then, I didn’t own a Bible. Believe it or not, I didn’t even know there was more than just the New Testament! It makes me smile now to remember how little I knew.

Then something wonderful happened. I didn’t simply receive a Bible. I was truly blessed with one. This precious gift came through the kindness of Bible Society supporters. To everyone who gives: thank you for showing such love to Cuba! I’m living proof of how your generosity changes lives.

Our church received so much more than just Bibles. We were given children’s books, Bible study materials, and Scripture portions to share. These became powerful tools for ministry. We knew we couldn’t keep this blessing to ourselves. We had to share it with others.

At just fourteen, I began serving as an evangelist, bringing God’s Word to my community. One of our most meaningful outreaches was at a local children’s hospital. We distributed Bible materials to the children, their parents, and even the doctors asked for what we were sharing. Many people who didn’t go to any church were eager to receive what we offered.

I’ll never forget one special little girl we met. She had suffered a serious head injury in an accident and was in critical condition. We prayed over her, left Bible materials with her family, and trusted God for healing. By God’s grace, she had successful surgery and her head injuries were completely healed.

Today, that girl has her own Bible. While she still can’t walk on her own to attend church, her parents tell us she reads her Bible every day and treasures it deeply. Now we’re praying for her father too, asking God to touch his heart and bring him to church.