More than 300 people have been baptised during a large Methodist gathering in eastern Cuba, in an event local Christian leaders have celebrated as a sign of growing faith in the region. 

The baptisms took place in the Guantánamo District and were led by Bishop Ricardo Pereira, head of the Methodist Church in Cuba, alongside district superintendent Roelvis Gaínza. 

Christian Daily International, citing local outlet Luzvisión Noticias, reported that hundreds of families attended the gathering, with estimates suggesting the number of people baptised may have been close to 350. 

Organisers described the occasion as a demonstration of unity among Christians in the region, saying those taking part had gathered together in "one faith, in one Lord". 

The service included worship and songs of thanksgiving as people publicly affirmed their Christian faith through baptism. 

Church leaders at the event also spoke about the significance of baptism as an expression of personal change and commitment to Christ. According to the report, ministers said those entering the water were symbolically leaving their old lives behind. 

Luzvisión Noticias said Methodist congregations in Cuba have experienced growth in their local ministries during the past decade. 

The outlet also described evangelical churches as an important source of community support and hope for some Cubans amid the country's continuing social and economic difficulties. 

Christian Daily International reported that local Christians regarded the large number of baptisms as evidence of the strength of the Church in eastern Cuba. 

The gathering was also presented by local organisers as an example of the work being carried out by Cuban church leaders and congregations despite challenging circumstances on the island.