Photo: Wikimedia / Dickelbers (CC)
Each week, Pastor Rolando Pérez Lora visits a park in Matanzas, Cuba, where public Wi-Fi is available, to film a series of Bible teachings for his YouTube channel. As he records, people often gather around to listen, sometimes asking him for prayer.
On March 15th, as Pastor Rolando was returning home after completing his latest video recording, two police officers approached the church leader and forced him into a patrol car. The pastor was then taken to the Playa Police Station and detained for three hours before being released. No official explanation was given for his arrest. This is not an isolated incident, for Pastor Rolando stated that he has been targeted by the authorities since becoming a pastor in 2011.
The Cuban Christians Alliance documented that Communist officials have committed 996 repressive actions against the country's religious leaders in 2024 alone, demonstrating a consistent pattern of harassment. This recent arrest comes during a time of significant civil unrest in Cuba, as demonstrations are being held throughout the country in the face of major shortages of food, medicine and fuel. To access additional reports addressing the oppression of Christianity in this island nation, visit our country profile.
- Prayerfully remember Pastor Rolando and other church leaders in Cuba who are faithfully sharing the Gospel message despite the increased opposition and unrest.
- Ask the Lord to provide national political leaders wisdom and guidance as they navigate how to effectively resolve the ongoing economic crisis.
- Pray for lasting peace to take place in this troubled country. In the process, may there be an end to the government's harassment of Christians who are diligently working to serve and support the Cuban people.
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