THE casual visitor in Cuba is amazed at the antiquated conditions attending living in general, but that which appeals to the heart of the missionary is the general ignorance and superstition of the people, unfitting them to comprehend the spiritual truths of the word which would lead to their salvation. We read and hear much of the heathen in Darkest Africa, but it is difficult to realize that heathen in equally as dense darkness are found in this fair land at the very door of the United States. Yes, it is a fact that African superstition and sometimes witchcraft with all its horrors, including human sacrifices, permeate to a large degree the negro elements of Cuba, and as these comprise the majority of the population of the island, these evils must be reckoned with. That the above is no myth is evident from the fact that in December of 1904 a white child was murdered, it being believed that the blood applied would cure dementia and other complaints from which some of the negro women were suffering.
The Calcutta Sanitarium.
Two of the perpetrators of this crime were duly condemned and executed. Even in the city of Havana, the capital, this superstition has been in evidence. Several months ago the police reported having surprised and raided a meeting of the witches held in Soledad Street, the first indication of their presence being manifest by the issuing of sighs and weird noises from a house where there were assembled 100 people, more or less, all colored, both men and women. Many were wearing masks and were gesticulating and screeching. They found, besides an altar, a doll which they worshiped, with the name of "Chango stones." There were also shells from the sea, horns, a cock, dry coconuts, necklaces, a goat's skull, and other things.
The dark spiritual condition of the Cuban people presents an awful indictment against the church of Rome which has been the guardian of their spiritual interests for centuries. However, with the passing of Spanish supremacy, an era of religious as well as of civil liberty and toleration was inaugurated, and in this change who can fail to see the providence of a kind heavenly Father who has heard the cries of the oppressed of this land? While liberty is vouchsafed to them by our government, are we not doubly debtors to them to make known that greater liberty that is found alone in Christ? Notwithstanding the many difficulties encountered, a door of entrance is open to the word of God in all parts of Cuba. The evangelist has only to announce his meetings by properly advertising them. Where are the men and the means to accomplish this work? Both are greatly needed to open missions and schools as centers of influence for the Gospel. May the Lord lay the burden of this work on those to whom He has entrusted talents of ability and means.
