Jamaican in Cuba

Introduction / History

Jamaicans have their roots in West Africa, but they are a distinct group due to generations of settlement on the island of Jamaica. They have developed their own culture and language, Jamaican Creole English. It is very similar to the creoles spoken in many other Caribbean nations.

There is a Jamaican diaspora that mainly cover the Caribbean and Latin America. Others live in the United States or the United Kingdom. One of these nations is Cuba. Some Jamaicans in Cuba feel forgotten by those back in Jamaica.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Jamaicans reflect resiliency and relaxation in the face of challenges. In Cuba, they have adapted to new cultures while retaining many of their traditional practices.

Jamaican life is characterized by numerous customs associated with various life stages. Weddings are outwardly similar to Western weddings with white bridal dresses and church ceremonies. However, a traditional Jamaican wedding typically begins the day before with a lavish feast. Friends play games and eat until dawn when they leave to prepare for the church ceremony. On the Sunday following the wedding, known as "Tun T'anks Sunday," the wedding party attends church together and holds an even larger celebration.

Funerals are similarly lavish. Friends and relatives drink coffee, share food, and sing hymns with the family for nine nights after the death. This practice both comforts the family and, some believe, protects them from the spirit of the dead one. After the ninth night, they expect the spirit to be at rest.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Christianity arrived in Jamaica with Columbus in the 1490s, fostering an eventual blending of Arawak, African, British, and Spanish traditions. Today, most Jamaicans identify as Christians, with more than half affiliating with Protestant denominations.

What Are Their Needs?

Jamaicans have the gospel and a fascinating culture. Their musical style, featuring steel drums and a reggae beat, is popular worldwide. They can use music to spread the gospel if they are willing.

Prayer Points

Pray for Jamaican workers to take Christ to the host country as a fragrant offering.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to bring revival to Jamaican churches, purifying them and calling their attention to the greatness of Christ.
Pray for the Lord to provide for the spiritual and physical needs of the Jamaican diaspora.
Pray for the Lord to raise up talented and anointed Jamaican musicians to use music as an evangelistic tool in Cuba.

Text Source:   Joshua Project