'Illegal to Mention God': Cuban Pastors Face Eight Years in Prison

HAVANA, CUBA — Two Assemblies of God pastors in Cuba are facing potential eight-year prison sentences after invoking their religious beliefs during their son's military tribunal, highlighting the Communist nation's continued crackdown on religious expression.

The Charges

Pastor Luis Guillermo Borjas and his wife, Roxana Rojas, were detained on May 19, 2025, and charged with "disrespect" and "disobedience" after Borjas told military court officials that they would ultimately answer to God for their actions. The couple was defending their son, Kevin Lay Laureido Rojas, who faced charges for evading mandatory military service.

According to Christian Solidarity Worldwide, the pastoral couple's detention occurred on the Isle of Youth, where they had traveled to support their son during his military trial. Cuban authorities viewed their religious statements as criminal acts worthy of severe punishment.

International Concern

The case has drawn attention from religious freedom advocates worldwide, who see it as part of Cuba's broader pattern of religious persecution. The Assemblies of God denomination is legally recognized in Cuba, making the charges against the pastors particularly concerning to international observers.

"This case demonstrates how even mentioning God can be treated as a criminal offense in Cuba," said a spokesperson for Christian Solidarity Worldwide, the UK-based religious freedom organization monitoring the situation.

Recent Release and Continuing Threat

While Pastor Borjas was reportedly released from custody in late May after converting five people during his imprisonment, the couple still faces the looming threat of an eight-year prison sentence if convicted. The charges remain active, leaving their future uncertain.

Broader Context of Cuban Religious Persecution

This incident occurs against the backdrop of Cuba's long history of religious suppression. Earlier this year, Pastor Lorenzo Rosales Fajardo was released after serving three and a half years in prison for protesting the communist government's human rights violations, demonstrating the ongoing risks faced by religious leaders who speak out.

The Cuban government's treatment of religious expression continues to draw criticism from international human rights organizations, who argue that citizens should have the freedom to express their faith without fear of imprisonment.

What's Next

The case remains pending in Cuban courts, with prosecutors continuing to seek the maximum eight-year sentence for both pastors. Religious freedom advocates are calling for international pressure on the Cuban government to drop the charges and respect basic religious liberties.

The outcome of this case will likely serve as an indicator of Cuba's willingness to tolerate religious expression under its current leadership.