Bishop Bill Skilton

Sunday, the Lord’s day, began with our enjoying another wonderful meal prepared by Xiomara who lived across the street. The “cafe con leche” helped us get the day under way! The usual flow of folks coming for the purified water gave way to the conversation and laughter of the community of Fieles de Jesus gathering for the church service.

I was joined by Mother Tulia and Deacon Felicia (Phyllis Doty) as we processed in with recorded music/hymns being played by Osmani (Mother Tulia’s husband).  Singing was spiritually uplifting and Susana, Mother Tulia’s daughter (7th grade) read one of the lessons with poise and control well beyond her years. Pam offered a homily on Daughters, spirituality and the presence of Daughters throughout the world. Translating was a challenge as Pam shifted from English to Spanish.

The passing of the Peace was wonderful as the music carried us and we moved around in typical Latino fashion. After receiving the Eucharist and prior to the Blessing, all the Daughters present, surrounded by the congregation, joined in prayers for Mother Tulia who is to undergo further testing to determine the need for surgery. What joy as the very body of Christ was found joined together in prayer.

Deacon Felicia dismissed us with the invitation to go out into the world (in Spanish) to love and serve the Lord and that it be done “Con gusto”!

After lunch and a short siesta we headed off to Varadero, one of the worlds most beautiful beaches. The trip offered incredible views and a panorama unequaled, interspersed with the sound of horns and the bright colors of vintage cars dating back the the early 50’s.

The beauty of Varadero was as I remembered it, with shallow blue waters as far as the eye could see. Shade was found under some sea grape bushes and we relaxed as we listened to Cuban music that could be heard from La Casa del Tabaco a few feet away.  After enjoying that time together we found ourselves exploring handcrafts in wood and pottery, guayaberas and other items.

Supper was at a wonderful restaurant with good Cuban food and close to the road ... enabling us to see car after car and even get close enough to claim “ficticious” ownership. Riding back home was most memorable as we were witnesses to God’s handiwork as the sun set over the ocean. What glorious views were offered as we darted from open space to open space trying to capture the colors of sunset. What a joy!

God is good, all of the time!