Pastors’ Retreat in Cuba

Published September 3, 2019

Pastor’s Retreat in Matanzas Presbytery in Cuba

After February’s mission trip to Cuba, plans emerged to offer a Pastors’ Retreat in Cuba, in partnership with the Matanzas Presbytery leaders. Retreat plans are being finalized, and pastors will receive event and application information soon! Here are the details you need to know now:

DATE: February 10-17, 2020 (the dates may vary by a day depending on flight availability)

LOCATION: Hotel Melia, Varadero and the Seminary in Matanzas

ANTICIPATED COST: $1200 per person (flexible depending on flights and individual schedules. This will include visas, flights, meals, rooms, transportation while in Cuba and translators.

ACTIVITIES: The trip is an opportunity for the pastors of the two Presbyteries to become acquainted. For many of the Cuban Pastors, it will be their only time away from their congregations during the year. For the American pastors, it is an opportunity to learn about Cuba and the possibility of a partnership between our Presbyteries. Hopefully, both will be able to see our churches from a different perspective as we share stories.

Schedule:

(Monday, February 10 — we may need to travel to Ft Lauderdale and spend the night, depending on flight schedules)

Tuesday, February 11 — fly to Havana, Cuba, ride buses to Matanzas. The night will be spent at SET, the Cuban seminary. Introductory discussion will include an introduction to the Presbyterian Church in Cuba, and how that context changes expectations.

Wednesday, February 12 — check into hotel. The Melia Varadero is an all inclusive beach resort.

Wednesday – Friday – Retreat topics will include ‘self care’ for pastors, what do our churches have in common and what is different, how we can we work together to serve our Lord. Fellowship, worship and recreation time.

Friday, February 14 — check out from hotel. Some people may choose to fly home on Friday. Others may choose to visit some of the churches in the Matanzas Presbytery. Departures can be arranged on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Housing will be arranged depending on interests and schedules.

Please note that applications and non-refundable deposit of $200 were due October 10. No late applications will be possible due to the visa processing schedule. The second payment will be due December 1, with the balance due on February 1. REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED.

Please contact Diane Watkins at staugmm@gmail.com for further information.