The companion relationship with Iglesia Evangelica Unido-Sinodo Luterano (IEU-SL) is the most recent one to be officially established. The ELCA was approached by Bishop Laborde of IEU in 2018 to explore the possibilities of working together. The IEU is headquartered in the south of Cuba in Santiago with 11 congregations located in the general vicinity. Further, the church is member of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF). A number of investigatory trips and conversations culminated in December 2019 with a group from the FB Synod embarking on an immersion experience in Santiago de Cuba. The bonds established during this trip confirmed the desire of both parties to proceed with an accompaniment relationship. A Memo of Understanding was signed formally in February 2023. The most recent visit to Santiago occurred in December 2024 when six people visited IEU. Travel restrictions and other obstacles bring significant challenges, however, all parties are committed to overcoming them and serving together.
The situation in Cuba is dire with severe shortages of food, medical supplies and other needs fueled by extreme restrictions on international trade. When combined with high inflation in the country, the people are suffering. The Global Mission Table’s Cuba Team advocates for an end to the embargo that adversely impacts Cuba’s citizens. Amid the severe government policies, the FB Synod nevertheless looks for opportunities to collaborate with the ELCA and international partners to assist IEU in its mission to spread the gospel and serve the larger community which lives in desperate need. We remain in close touch through social media.
The Cuba Team is chaired by the Rev. Dr. Russell Meyer who has a deep and abiding connection with Cuba and the Cuban people. His background and knowledge base is vast and he graciously shares his expertise with the Cuba Team and indeed, the entire synod. For more information on IEU and FBS’ relationship with the church in Cuba, please email Global Mission Chair Rev. Katie Carroll at revkhc@gmail.com.
