The Episcopal Church of Cuba has welcomed last month’s announcement by the US government that it will seek to normalize relations with the island. “This day constitutes a day of great significance for their future,” said the statement released on 17 Dec 2014 and signed by the diocese’s bishops and elected leaders. “The steps that today have been taken between the governments of Cuba and the United States, in announcing the reestablishment of diplomatic relations, and as part of that proceeding to release the three Cuban compatriots and the American citizen Alan Gross, among others, show that dialogue and a stance of mutual understanding and respect in the midst of differences are basic elements in the relationships among governments and peoples.” The US government has pursued economic sanctions against the Castro regime for over five decades. But in recent years a consensus within policy circles has emerged that the goals behind ban on travel and most trade between the US and Cuba have failed. Cuba is a full member of the WTO and has exports of over $20 billion a year to China, Canada, Europe and Brazil.  The Cuban church statement asked God for “his Holy Spirit guide the governments of both countries in wise decisions” and to “weave concord among the two peoples and affirm our commitment to the truth, justice, and peace that come from the immeasurable love of the triune God.”