Do Christians in Cuba celebrate Thanksgiving?
Christians in Cuba celebrate Thanksgiving differently from Christians in the United States. Although Thanksgiving is not a traditional national holiday in Cuba, many Cuban Christians embrace its spiritual meaning: giving thanks to God, sharing what they have, and gathering in fellowship despite difficult circumstances.
For the Methodist Church in Cuba, Thanksgiving can be a meaningful opportunity to express gratitude, strengthen church relationships, and share a meal with others—even when food is scarce.
Celebrations vary from church to church, depending on what is possible. Some congregations organize a special meal or fellowship gathering. At my home church in Marianao, Havana, we always gathered for a churchwide Thanksgiving meal on December 31, followed by a worship service as we waited to welcome the new year. Goat was the meat of choice because turkey was not available. My family also hosted dinners at our home, where my parents welcomed international students of Methodist background who were studying in Havana. We have wonderful memories of these gatherings and the fellowship we shared.
Sharing food and helping families in need are meaningful ways for churches to express gratitude to God and love for their neighbors. In a country facing significant food shortages, even a simple meal can be a powerful act of kindness.
Gathering with church families, praying for one another, and giving thanks for God's provision are ways Cuban Christians embody the spiritual meaning of Thanksgiving.
Given the challenges many Cuban families face in obtaining food and other basic necessities, Thanksgiving also offers an opportunity for partner churches in the United States to share their blessings with Cuban congregations through shared meals, food assistance, and fellowship. These simple acts of generosity can nourish both body and spirit while strengthening the bonds of faith and friendship across borders.