[The Gazette]

Originally written by James Dinan of The Villages Daily Sun Jerry Driggers is a fifth-generation Sumter County resident who found himself with more time on his hands a few years ago. “I’m not retired completely, but I wanted to get out and help people in new ways,” he said. “Pastor Derrel Strickland of Oxford Assembly

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[ex34449]

Originally Posted by The Gazette

"but I wanted to get out and help people in new ways,”

Although I appreciate his efforts, he couldn't find anyone needy across these United States?

[John-US]

Exactly-- don't help the idiots who gave you $$$$ go help cuba. (maybe you can stay?)

[Daxdog]

No body in America needs help? You do know the government there just took it over, or even demolished it!

[ThirdOfFive]

Originally Posted by The Gazette

Originally written by James Dinan of The Villages Daily Sun Jerry Driggers is a fifth-generation Sumter County resident who found himself with more time on his hands a few years ago. “I’m not retired completely, but I wanted to get out and help people in new ways,” he said. “Pastor Derrel Strickland of Oxford Assembly

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Why?

Religion in Cuba today is predominantly Roman Catholic, with some protestant sects as well as Santeria (a combination of Christianity, African native religion and a little Native American thrown in). In other words, Christianity is ALREADY present there. But this isn't uncommon. Sects in America send missionaries to Mexico (nearly 90% Christian), Brazil (87% Christian). Haiti (also 87% Christian), The Dominican Republic (69% Christian), etc. etc. Back in Minnesota I was aware of a certain church that, each January, had a "mission" trip to Haiti. I've been to the Island of Hispaniola. Gorgeous, especially in January. Surely does beat the snowdrifts and -20 degree thermometer readings in Minnesota in January.

But in the end, what do such trips accomplish? I'd venture to guess that the various Christian sects average about 85% agreement on issues of scripture, doctrine, salvation, etc. Some, probably a lot closer. So in the end, we have one Christian sect trying to convert ANOTHER Christian sect to their particular point of view, when they ALREADY have 85% of their views, or more, in common. It sows discord and conflict--has been that way throughout history. Two sects can be 90% identical, and they'll kill each other over that last 10%. I think ol' Mephistopheles is dancing in glee when such things happen.

I think Christians would be far better off looking for common ground, rather than fighting and bickering over the (often minute) differences that separate them.