Seminary in Cuba Adapts Academic Program Amid National Disruptions

More than 100 theology students at the Adventist Theological Seminary in Havana were unexpectedly stranded across Cuba after a recent nationwide suspension of public transportation prevented them from returning to campus following a scheduled weekend break, prompting church leaders to quickly adjust the academic calendar.

According to Aldo Pérez, president of the Cuban Union, students had traveled home on February 5 to spend time with their families, expecting to return just days later. Instead, when they prepared to travel back on February 9, transportation services had been halted.

“There are about 105 to 110 theology students,” Pérez said in a phone interview. “They went home to be with their families, but when they tried to return, they simply had no way to come back.”

Academic Adjustments Underway

In response, seminary administrators moved swiftly to prevent academic delays by restructuring the coming weeks of the semester. For the current month students will complete supervised ministerial field practice in their home churches, working alongside pastors and Bible instructors.

“We met with the seminary leadership to adjust the program so students would not lose the semester,” Pérez explained. “Each student will be evaluated through practical ministry work where they are currently located. Meanwhile, professors are preparing coursework that can be delivered by whatever means are available for next month.”

With widespread electrical outages across much of the island, digital instruction remains limited, Pérez said, noting that coursework will be shared through messaging platforms whenever connectivity allows. Formal examinations will take place once students can safely return to campus.

“When conditions improve, students will complete their evaluations,” Pérez said. “Some language courses will need to be conducted in person.”

The adjustments may require shortening scheduled breaks, and one of the seminary’s two foreign students has returned to their home country until further notice.

Recovery Efforts Continue

The academic changes come amid broader national challenges affecting transportation, energy access, and recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa, which damaged homes in eastern Cuba. Pérez said coordinated relief efforts—supported by the Inter-American Division, ADRA, Maranatha Volunteers International, and other donors—have provided roofing materials, cement, food, clothing, and other essentials to affected families.

“With this support we’ve been able to repair homes and assist families in need,” Pérez said. “Church members across the country have also contributed clothing and food to help those impacted.”

Public health challenges have also affected communities, Pérez said, with dengue and chikungunya outbreaks impacting large portions of the population in recent months. He noted that colder temperatures have reduced mosquito activity, slowing the spread of infection.

“Thanks to the recent cold weather, which dropped to a record low of 0º Celsius (32º Fahrenheit), cases have declined,” Pérez said. “Many church leaders and members are still dealing with lingering symptoms, but the situation has improved significantly.”

Church Life Continues Through Prayer Vigils and Ministry

Amid these ongoing pressures, Adventist congregations across Cuba have organized rotating home-based prayer vigils from Saturday evenings to Sunday mornings since January 31.

“We’ve encouraged members to take part in nationwide vigils in their homes,” Pérez said. “The church has responded beautifully. It’s been a powerful time of prayer in a complex season.”

He explained that the vigils invite members to seek God’s presence and protection. “Our church members are praying for the Holy Spirit to be poured out, for families to be strengthened, for the church to grow, and for God’s mercy to rest upon the Cuban people, holding firmly to His promises of care and deliverance.”

Even amid current restrictions, local ministry activities continue. Pérez noted that recent lay evangelism festivals across the island drew strong participation, reflecting the church’s resilience and enthusiasm despite ongoing challenges.

Although transportation limitations may delay distribution of the next Adult Sabbath School Bible Study Guide, printing is continuing in Havana as planned. “As soon as the materials reach our members, they’ll begin studying the new lesson,” Pérez said.

“Despite everything, the church remains encouraged,” he said. “Members are confident that God is in control and that better days will come. We continue preaching the gospel wherever we can.”

The original version of this story was posted on the Inter-American Division news site.