I Was a Stranger: Hope for a Hidden World

by Chris Kelley, Feliberto Pereira

A man of peace. A vengeful dictator. A priceless gift from America. Held 1,431 days in horrendous conditions, Feliberto Pereira endured for the day freedom would arrive--a morning flight from Cuba to Miami, part of the largest airborne rescue of its kind in U.S. history. On his journey to freedom, hope replaced despair, and for thousands of people this man would meet, life would never be the same. The inspiring story of a modern Good Samaritan.

272 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2008

Reviews

[Raymond · Rating 5 out of 5]

I met in person with Feliberto Pereira when i attended the Christian Church of the South West (CCSW) Men's Retreat for the weekend of September 20, 2024 at the Lake Brownwood Christian Retreat in Brownwood, Texas. I have been a long while somewhat aware of his ministry due to Caroline Herbert who had been a cherished personal minister when we attended Paradise Christian Church in Texas. She had been a former Roman Catholic but graduated from Brite Divinity of Texas Christian University and ordained a minister in the Disciples of Christ (Christian Church). I knew that when she left our area of Texas that she served with Feliberto but I did not know that she was recently deceased.
He presented me with a copy of his book and autographed a personal message for me and I am so blessed that I was able to learn of his life and ministry through this book. I am more than blessed to learn of his ministry and his mission to aid others who seek asylum as he has been so fortunate though horribly abused and also misfortunate in many aspects but nevertheless consistent in his ministry.
I am somewhat dismayed that the www.iwasastranger.org that is touted as "The journey continues" on the back cover of the paperback is not functional.

[Melissa Klapuch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative.

[DM · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gives so much perspective to the plight of the refugee. Many of my church friends have met and know Filiberto and speak very highly of them. Everyone should read his story.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good read. It is amazing the suffering that people endure in countries led by harsh dictators. Simple freedoms that we enjoy are priceless for the refugees from those countries...those that were able to make it to America. Mr. Pereira's faith is inspiring. He never waivered from his beliefs, even though his life would have been easier and he could have done very well if he gave up being a Christian in Cuba. God gave him the strength he needed as he was persecuted and mistreated while he waited for his turn to exit Cuba. He has dedicated his life to giving people hope, and to preserve or restore their human dignity.

Towards the end of the story, I was worried that it would turn too political discussing the immigration laws and U.S. system, but it did not. This book simply discussed the issues without taking political sidess, and Mr. Pereira and his organization continue to work with the government and help as many people as they can.

[Rev. Linda]

An excellent reading suggestion from our pastor's wife, who I am serving on our church's Outreach Committee with at HCC. Review from the publisher: "A man of peace. A vengeful dictator. A priceless gift from America. Held 1,431 days in horrendous conditions, Feliberto Pereira endured for the day freedom would arrive: a morning flight from Cuba to Miami, part of the largest airborne rescue of its kind in U.S. history. On his journey to freedom, hope replaced despair, and for thousands of people this man would meet, life would never be the same. The inspiring story of a modern Good Samaritan."

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting book about refugees and Cuba.

[Barry Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Truly inspiring book. Great story about how amazing we can be as a country when we welcome a "stranger".