The Cuba Partnership of Baltimore Presbytery welcomes

Light Street Presbyterian Church

to the Partnership.

Throughout these last five years, Mrs. Jo Ann Ruther, employed as secretary at Ashland Presbyterian Church, has aided and assisted me in every detail of trip planning for our outgoing Cuba delegations. She has navigated the murky waters of charter flights, quick change scheduling, the editing of our OFAC travel applications, accommodations for incoming Cuban delegations, and now: the currency issues.

The Mission Committee of Light Street Presbyterian Church, in conjunction with its Session, began to deliberate joining the Cuba Partnership at the beginning of 2004. I know I can thank Jo Ann for leading the charge. Light Street members began writing to the congregation of the mission church in Paraíso and a strong bond has developed.

In 2005, a banner celebrating this emergent relationship was presented to the Paraíso church by Jo Ann in celebration this commitment, and plans are being drawn to begin the refurbishment of the structure with funds provided by Light Street P.C., Ashland P.C. and the Global Mission Committee of Baltimore Presbytery.

In September 2005, Light Street will host members of the incoming Cuban delegation, when they visit us here in Baltimore for the second time since our relationship began. Additionally, Jo Ann will begin serving on the Global Mission Committee when it meets after the summer holidays, no doubt adding her considerable talents, insights, and experience to the Presbytery's roster of active committee members.