Though he immigrated to the U.S. nearly 20 years ago, Lt. Ramon Cebrian still holds his native country of Cuba close to his heart. So, when he returned for a visit in 2018 and saw the deterioration of Salvation Army properties and the great need, he was devastated.
“When I saw the condition of the corps and adult rehabilitation center (ARC) in Camaguey, my heart was broken,” he said. “After being in the U.S. and seeing the great blessings and resources we have here, it was shocking. I wanted to do something.”
Lt. Ramon and his wife, Lt. Ely Sanchez, began praying diligently about the situation. He also crafted project proposals, but none of them gained traction. God seemed to be silent. In truth, He was orchestrating a plan they never could have imagined.
Then in 2022 at a Brooklyn Park, Minn., Rotary Club meeting, Steve Laible approached Captain Josh Polanco about the possibility of their chapter partnering with The Salvation Army for a project in Cuba. The captain immediately thought of Lt. Ramon, who was stationed in the Twin Cities, as a resource, although he was unaware of the lieutenant’s concerns and prayers.
“God’s hand was involved in all of it,” said Captain Josh. “It all started with his desire to do something, and then God answering years later through this. It’s a story of perseverance by believing and prayer.”
Wheels were set in motion for a trip that would encompass improvement projects by Rotary members, friends and Lt. Ramon and give them a taste of The Salvation Army’s ministry.
Despite the extended process of securing the religious visas and the transferring of project money through official Salvation Army channels, God’s hand was evident throughout the planning and trip.
“One of the lessons I learned is that God’s timing is always perfect,” said Lt. Ramon. “We have desires, and God answers in His time.”
During the trip the group visited the corps in Santa Clara and toured the city on motorbike taxis. Later, they rode a horse and buggy to Camaguey.
“There was a joyful crowd at the mission [ARC] and the program included music and a special worship service,” said Steve. “Afterward, we were shown the substantial improvements that had been accomplished with the funding provided by Rotary and concluded with a community meal.”
With the generous sponsorship and on-site help of the Rotary Club to complete the finishing touches, the ARC’s interior was refreshed with paint, repairs and improvements to the kitchen. The group also brought gifts, including health and hygiene products which were distributed to 50 women and girls from the community and computers to be used in education programs for the children.
“I witnessed with my own eyes the immediate impact the project had on the community,” said Lt. Ramon who is grateful to Rotary and gives glory to God.
