The Cuban Assemblies of God (AoG) denomination has called for the return of a 27-hectare site confiscated by the government in 1963. Formerly the location of the Bible Institute of the Evangelical Pentecostal Church of Cuba (AoG), the denomination is also discussing appropriate compensation with the authorities.
The Bible Institute, established in 1939, housed hundreds of students, many of whom were training to be pastors, before they were ordered out by gun-toting soldiers in March 1963. The site included housing for students and teachers, a chapel, and agricultural land where food was grown and cows were kept for milk. Institute director Floyd Woodworth was arrested and held in solitary confinement for 20 days before being released and deported to the United States.
The AoG developed alternative methods to educate future church leaders but, as it was not officially recognised, this work took place in a legal grey area.
The denomination said there were three key reasons why it wanted its site back: firstly, because it is the lawful owner. Secondly, because face-to-face teaching has many advantages over other methods. Thirdly, because other denominations would be able to train their workers there. The AoG’s stated purpose is to serve the entire body of Christ, which it has done for many years.
Anna-Lee Stangl, CSW’s Head of Advocacy, said: “We support the AoG in Cuba as they press for the return of their historic Bible Institute property. The arbitrary confiscation of this property, and many others belonging to Cuban Christians, was unjust. While the denomination has found creative ways to continue to educate and develop leaders over the past 58 years, the return of the site would mark a significant step towards improving the Cuban Government’s record on upholding freedom of religion or belief.”
