Havana/Several Cuban evangelical leaders have defended the recognition they gave him on Tuesday to Mike Hammerhead of the United States diplomatic mission in Havana, for his approach to the churches of the Island and his humanitarian work. In a pastoral statement released this Friday, the religious denounce the “accusations” and “disqualifications” received since then.
Signed by Moisés de Prada Esquivel, superintendent of the Evangelical Pentecostal Church of Cuba, and disseminated by the Assemblies of God, the letter rejects “categorically the insinuations that attempt to present us as spies, agents of foreign organizations, mercenaries or instruments at the service of political interests outside our nation.” These are accusations, they continue, “lacking evidence” and that “do not constitute responsible criticism, but rather an attempt to sow suspicion, fuel resentment and provoke hostility against those of us who have dedicated our lives to the service of God and our people.”
The letter also explains that for decades, American churches and Christian organizations have helped the Island with food, medicine and even economic resources. “Since when does thanking those who help those in need constitute an offense against our nation? When did building bridges of friendship become a reason for condemnation?” the religious lament.
“Our presence in that diplomatic headquarters did not respond to partisan commitments or hidden political agendas, but rather to a public act of recognition, courtesy and gratitude”
And they assert: “Our presence in that diplomatic headquarters did not respond to partisan commitments or hidden political agendas, but rather to a public act of recognition, courtesy and gratitude, in the context of the 250th anniversary of American independence.”
Likewise, they affirm that they respect “the authorities of our country” and reaffirm their commitment “to peace, national sovereignty and the well-being of all Cubans.” Finally, they warn: “Let no one try to turn a gesture of gratitude into an act of betrayal, nor transform our vocation for peace into a reason for persecution. We are not enemies of Cuba: we are children of this land, shepherds of its people and servants of Jesus Christ. And as long as God grants us strength, we will continue to love, serve and bless our nation, without fear, without hatred and without ever renouncing our faith or our dignity.”
The harassment of evangelicals occurs after the US Embassy informed Hammer of the distinction. According to the diplomatic headquarters, the pastors thanked the official for his willingness to approach the churches, listen to them and keep communication channels open.
Hammer, for his part, said he felt “very honored” to receive the recognition and referred to the work of the Embassy in favor of Cubans. The diplomatic representation reiterated its commitment to supporting the people of the Island and defending fundamental rights, including religious freedom. The official also sent a message to the Cubans in which he stated that the interest of the United States is to support them.
