The first-ever National Congress on Pastoral Theology of the Church of the Nazarene in Cuba took place at the facilities of Cuban Nazarene Theological Seminary (SETENAC) in Punta Brava, Havana, from 3-5 July 2025. The congress was held under the theme “In Spirit and Truth.”
This historic gathering provided a unique space for learning, reflection, and spiritual renewal centered on the work of the Holy Spirit in the Church of the Nazarene in Cuba. The main plenary sessions focused on three key areas: The Spirit and the Church (past, present, and future of the Church of the Nazarene in Cuba), The Spirit and the Call, and The Spirit and Ministry. The participation of academic leaders and engaged audience members enriched the five keynote presentations.
The event was planned and organized by Cuban Nazarene Theological Seminary, with the support of the Mesoamerica Regional Office, the Central Mesoamerica Field Office, the Regional Theological Education Office, and the four Nazarene districts in Cuba.
The congress opened with a message from Carlos Sáenz, regional director for Mesoamerica, and a special word to pastors from Christian Sarmiento, jurisdictional general superintendent. The ordination of 15 pastors was a deeply meaningful moment—a testimony to the vitality of ministry in the country.
The event concluded with the largest graduation ceremony in the history of Cuban Nazarene Theological Seminary; a total of 192 students graduated from various academic programs, and 51 certificates were awarded to those enrolled in short-term courses. This milestone reflects the strong partnership between the seminary and local churches.
“This event marks a milestone in the history of the Church of the Nazarene in Cuba,” said Jorge Baños, regional education coordinator. “For the first time, a congress of this magnitude was held with the strong support of district superintendents, pastors, leaders, and laypeople. The keynote messages, the reflections of academic leaders, and the engagement of attendees were all in tune with what the Lord, through his Holy Spirit, wanted to say to the church. We pray that in years to come, people will speak of a before and after this national pastoral theology congress.”