Three sisters arrived in Cuba for the first time, their mission has become a living testimony of faith, resilience, and solidarity, woven every day into the daily life of people of Cuba
Sr. Edisley Mireya Rivera Licea.
This year, we, the Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit (SSpS), celebrate with joy and gratitude 30 years of presence in Cuba. This journey has allowed us to immerse ourselves in the culture, traditions, and life experiences of a lovely people who renew their hope every day of seeing a better future. Three decades ago, three sisters arrived at José Martí Airport, following the legacy of St. Arnold Janssen, our founder, so that God, the Triune God, might be known, loved, and glorified by all people. This mission was inspired by the commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the beginning of evangelization on the American continent. As a sign of gratitude, our congregation decided to establish a new mission presence in Cuba, supported by the provinces of Chile and the Province of Southern Argentina.
Thus began the journey toward the foundation, during which the dialogues were initiated with the relevant entities on the island, with the support of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD), our brothers who had already been in this island for several years. On 6th march,1996 the pioneer sisters: Sr. Aluigia Hoing, SSpS from the Province of Chile, Sr. Ana Matilde Gallinger, SSpS from Southern Argentina, and Sr. Dina Tabares, SSpS from Northern Argentina—began their mission in the town village of Nicaro, part of the municipality of Mayarí in the province of Holguín, located in the northern part of the island’s eastern region.
Just as the seed that grows in good soil yields a hundredfold, although we have not grown as so much, but our presence has been consolidated and enriched, and today we are a region of nine sisters from Chile, Indonesia, India, Philippines, Austria, Poland, and—with great joy—a local vocation from Cuba, ranging in age from 36 to 59 years old, who share life and mission in three communities: Nicaro, mentioned earlier; Niquero in the province of Granma, one of the southern provinces also in the eastern part of the island; and in the province of Havana, the island’s capital. We work with various pastoral ministries—children, adolescents, and young adults—as well as adults Catequism programs, in collaboration with the dioceses where we are located. We provide spiritual accompaniment to young ones, helping them discover what the Lord is placing in their lives. We accompany Christian communities and celebrate the Word of God when parish priests cannot reach all locations. We operate soup kitchens where food is provided to vulnerable people, among others.
Over the years, we have experienced many joys that enrich our mission. The warmth and hospitality of the Cubans people are a daily cause grace for celebration. The laughter of children Children´s laughter during our catechesis, Catequesis, the sparkle in the eyes of those receiving care in their homes, and the simplicity of sharing a meal with vulnerable elderly people are moments that fill our souls. We find hope in the resilience of the people, who, despite the circumstances, celebrate life with dances, songs, and traditions that strengthen their cultural identity.
However, not everything has been easy. The challenges imposed by the political and economic situation have required our mission to continually adapt and transform. The scarcity of material resources, the difficulty in accessing basic goods,needs the challenging currency situation, and restrictions on mobility are just some of the realities we face. But in the midst of these difficulties, our faith has become a source of strength. Through unity and mutual support among the sisters and the communities, we have found creative ways to address these challenges. This has also allowed us to forge deep bonds of solidarity.
The pain and suffering experienced in the daily lives of Cubans are realities that have brought us closer together. We are not missionaries isolated from reality; we live through and suffer the burden, the exhaustion, and, at many moments, even despair. However, it is also palpable how God always brings good out of evil. A clear example of this is what is happening in our village of Nicaro, where the shortage of drinking water has become a chaotic and desperate situation. We often go long periods days and months without this vital liquid, which affects the quality of life for all of us who live here. Nevertheless, it is beautiful to see how the neighbors and we, as part of the community, come together to find solutions that help us to face—even if not entirely—this major problem. Everyone contributes what they can and have, for the benefit of all.
Recently, our part of town in the part of our place was without water for a while, and when we realized our reserves water tank were was running low, a neighbor helped us to set up a hose to draw water from a distant spot where water flowed flow intermittently. To access that water, we had to run the hose across a busy street, so another neighbor lent us a pipe, which several neighbors later buried so it wouldn’t break and could withstand the passing cars. Neighborhood collaboration and unity were essential so that we could all access this vital resource—a simple gesture under other circumstances, but one that, in our situation, became a true demonstration of solidarity. Solidarity that is reciprocated, for once we have water in the cistern (water tank), it is shared with the neighbors.
This experience and many others have taught us and continue to teach us that the mission is not only about evangelizing, but also about living the Gospel through concrete acts of love and service. Every day, we seek to bring the light of Christ through our actions, and that includes being present in the joys and sufferings of the people.
The celebration of the 30th anniversary of our presence in Cuba is a time for reflection and gratitude. As we look back, we see the path we have travelled, the hearts touched, and the lives transformed—both our own and those of the people with whom we share this journey. This anniversary represents not only a milestone in our mission but also a renewed commitment to continue working on behalf of this beloved land. We know that challenges will continue, but we also understand that, through faith and unity, we can face any obstacle.
We want to continue being a bridge between God and the Cuban people people of Cuba, bringing hope and love to every corner of our communities. Our mission continues, and with each passing day, we feel that we keep learning and growing in this beautiful country. Every story we share, every laughter we hear, and every tear we dry are part of our legacy here.
In this context, we thank each and everyone who has been part of this journey. From those who welcomed us with open arms to those who have selflessly collaborated on our projects and activities. Without a doubt, each one has left an indelible mark on our lives and on the communities we serve.
With renewed faith, we move forward, trusting that God’s love will always accompany us in every step we take. It has been 30 years of presence in Cuba, and it has been and will continue to be a mission of love and hope. Here we are, ready to continue dedicating our lives and mission for the good of Cuba, for our people of Cuba! God Holy Spirit, all for love of you!
