By Frazer Member Kelley Parker
Going to Cuba happened in a whirlwind for our family. It all came together at the last minute and at the absolute busiest time of the year for me. The Lord was working because I had to have approval from several people within a couple of days to be able to go. I work for Child Evangelism Fellowship and had to be approved by our Headquarters, our State Director and our local committee, but it all came together.
Not only did my girls and I go, but my Mom [Mrs. Kay Bray] was able to go as well. What a joy for us to all go together. Being able to serve the people of Cuba at the Methodist church in Guanabacoa is an experience we will never forget. I was proud of my Mom, too, because she was able to give her entire testimony in Spanish one afternoon while we were there.
This mission trip was different than some of the others I have been on. We spent a lot of time with the Pastor and his family and several of the church members. It was fun really getting know them. This was the first time I had actually conducted a teacher training on the mission field. I have worked with children in different countries, but not trained the children’s teachers. It was a great experience. We were also able to leave them some CEF materials that they can use for a long time.
My daughters, Francie and Mary Phyfer, helped with whatever needed to be done throughout the week. They especially were helpful getting ready for the children’s “Jesus Celebration.” Our team put this event on along with the children’s church workers there in Cuba. Praise the Lord, we were able to share with around 125 children through the “Celebration.”
The marriage training Mike and Lisa Conn did for the couples in the church was well attended and well done, as were the ladies’ Bible studies held in the afternoons by several team members. We had lots of fun with our entire mission team. They are a sweet group of people who love the Lord and the people of Cuba. We are grateful the Lord allowed us to be part of it.
For another member’s perspective on this trip, see also Alice Cordle‘s report.