Pastor Acner, the President in the Guantánamo district and Pastor of the First Baptist Church, oversees a dynamic network of 71 church groups across Guantánamo city, each representing years of dedicated mission work and reflecting the district’s enduring commitment to expansion and outreach. The church’s strategy to reach deeper into the community focuses on providing a critical resource: water. Recognizing the significant number of people in need, the church has committed to supplying water free of charge. However, they face a challenge because the government only provides water through the system a few days a week, and the current water tank often runs out quickly, leaving many people without access. To better serve the community and meet this vital need, the church recognizes the necessity of acquiring a larger water tank, which would allow them to cover a greater number of people in need. This initiative not only meets a physical need but also embodies the church’s mission to show compassion and care, thereby strengthening connections and trust within the community.
In addition to addressing these immediate needs, the First Baptist Church serves as a vital hub for laypeople seeking training and equipping, particularly noteworthy as it remains the sole provider of such resources in eastern Cuba. The district’s vision for growth is further supported by education, with 9 students currently enrolled in the seminary in Santiago de Cuba. Recognizing the limitations of internet connectivity and infrastructure, the church is actively pursuing offline access to theological materials through thumb drives or electronic devices, and exploring the possibility of cloud-based resource distribution for local convention leaders. Furthermore, Pastor Acner is grappling with the construction of a new worship space in a neighboring city, where the scarcity of cement poses a significant obstacle. Despite challenges, including legal recognition and geopolitical complexities, the district remains steadfast in its mission, requesting prayers for continued guidance and protection.