St Mary's Blog

Money & Marriage God's Way - March 27

2012-02-18T15:04:00.000-05:00

Six-week course begins Tuesday, March 27th. If interested, please contact Jim Koehlinger

http://www.compass1.org/resources/small-group-studies/money-and-marriage-gods-way/

Money and Marriage God’s Way « Compass

www.compass1.org

Financial stress can devastate a marriage. But there is a better way — God’s way! This six week small group study will show you how to discover God’s approach to managing your finances and strengthening your marital relationship.

Lenten Series begins Feb 29

2012-02-14T13:30:00.000-05:00

"Leap" into our Lenten Series starting February 29, 2012! "Walk the Talk" explores finding our Christian purpose for life. Our "Soup Suppers" begin at 6pm, with music following and our program starting promptly at 7. Join us!

Photos from Talent Show

2012-02-07T09:27:00.000-05:00

Please visit our photos from the Talent Show at St Mary's! Click on the Facebook link on the right. See how talented we are! America's Got Talent? Well, St Mary's Got REAL Talent! Enjoy!

What's happening around St Mary's

2012-01-25T20:32:00.002-05:00

New stuff at St Mary's!

The Villages Daily Sun ran a great article onKen Brown and his award from the Brotherhood of St Andrew. Read it on thebulletin board at St Marys. If I can get a link to it, I’ll include it on theblog.

St Mary's Episcopal Church began this blog lastyear at the start of a mission trip to El Hogar inTegucigalpa, Honduras. The church hascontinued with the blog reporting events and activities at the church sincethen. Again, the church will use the blog to report the mission trip for 2012to begin in May with daily news and photos of their work in Honduras.

The Episcopal Church Women of St Mary's Episcopal Church will hold a Mardi Gras Dance on February 17 from 7-10pm to be held at the Parish Hall. No one under age 21 years old will be admitted. Cost is $10 per person. Music will be provided by DJ Randy Stanley. Finger foods, wine, soft drinks, and bottled water will be available. There will be a contest for the best decorated mask.

Our Church will hold a Pancake Supper February21 from 5-7pm in the Parish Hall. This date isShrove Tuesday, or Fat Tuesday, and is the last day before beginning Lent.Please join us as we prepare for this holy season. A free-will offering will beat the door.

St Mary’s Episcopal Church will hold Ash Wednesday services on February 22 at10:30am and at 7pm. All are welcome to attend.

43rd Diocesan Convention

2012-01-24T16:48:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

Our 43rd Diocesan Convention this past Saturday was one of thevery best I have ever attended. A significant resolution was passed todesignate one Sunday each year in honor of Camp Wingmann and Canterbury Retreatand Conference Center - each vital ministries to the growth and development ofour diocese and its mission.

The tone of convention was framed by the transition underway fromBishop Howe to Bishop-elect Brewer, and each speaker came back to the sametheme (though I am certain this was not planned in advance) of advancing Christtogether.

Bishop-elect Brewer opened his address with a brief film you cansee here: http://deidox.com/films/pastors/?f=LUDMILLAGHe went on to talk about "3 C's" he hopes will frame the start of hisministry as our bishop this spring:

Compassion - That we would use compassion to overcome ourculture's growing indifference and hostility to the Gospel.

Charisma - That we would bring forth, share and celebrate themovement of the Holy Spirit among us, ranging from classic spiritual gifts tothe divine inspiration of new ministries.
Character - The we would embody the character of Christ in theways we live and work together.

Bishop Howe's address looked back on the achievements andchallenges during his tenure and ahead to our future. He quoted a sermonfrom St. John, given very late in his life to the Church at Ephesus. The last surviving of Jesus' original twelve disciples, a huge crowd hadgathered in great anticipation. John said simply, "Little children,love one another." Bishop Howe urged us forward the same way, to arousing, standing ovation. You can read thefull text of his address here:

http://www.cfdiocese.org/article/2012/01/21/bishops-address-43rd-annual-diocesan-convention-melbourne-florida

The Right Reverend Gerard M'Pango, recently retiredbishop from the diocese of West Tanganyika inTanzania, framed his sermon at Eucharist around the word safari, which inSwahili means to travel together. His diocese planted over 500 churchesduring his 30 years as bishop and founded a seminary to train prieststo serve the dynamic growth of the church. He urged us to walktogether and relentlessly follow where Christ leads us.

And so we shall!

In Christ,

Fr. Tim+

SMILE Team News

2012-01-16T17:41:00.007-05:00

Thanks to Barbara Block, Marie Martinez, Colleen Rothrock, and Tana Thurgaland, the SMILE Team has kicked off a fund raising effort to provide needed supplies for the Service Team’s mission to El Hogar Projects in Tegucigalpa, Honduras this May.

The team is selling note cards with a rendering of St. Mary’s on the cover. Each packet contains 10 cards and envelopes. The packets are $10 each.

If you would like to support the team through this campaign, contact Marie or Colleen to reserve your cards. The cards will also be available through the church office once our supply arrives.

To Place your order, please contact:

Marie Martinez at (407) 967-1732 or msm4163@hotmail.com

Colleen Rothrock at (352) 598-1986 or Crsings@cfl.rr.com

January 14 1 - 3pm Couponing Class

2012-01-08T13:34:00.000-05:00

Creative Cents Couponing-Couponing Class with Danielle Kruszewski

How would you like to save money at the grocery store? How about the drug store & department stores? Of course you would. Who wouldn’t?

Imagine how great it would be if we could purchase our groceries at a savings or even free?

Imagine how wonderful it would be to stock St. Mary’s Pantry for a fraction of the cost we normally pay? Imagine how many more people would be blessed by receiving food from St. Mary’s Pantry?

Please join us for a 2 hour couponing class presented by Danielle Kruszewski of Creative Cents Couponing January 14, 2012

1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Parish Hall of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

$15/person if you pre-register at www.creativecentscouponing.com

Cost: $20/person at the door
Watch for $10 coupon for this class in Ocala Star Banner at www.ocala.com. Click on Bargain Shouter.

There will be a sign up sheet in the Narthex.

Please spread the word to your family members, neighbors and other friends.

We are blessed to be a blessing to others.

Annual Parish Meeting - January 8

2011-12-25T13:10:00.000-05:00

The Annual Meeting will be held at 9:15am in the Parish Hall between the services. The past year will be reviewed and we'll take a look at the new year. The election of three Vestry members will be held. Their short biographies are on the page to the right under Pages - 2012Vestry Candidates.

Our special Advent services

2011-12-12T09:33:00.000-05:00

The Children's Christmas Pageant with all the children of St Mary's will be held during the 10:30am service on December 18. This is a special and moving pageant with surprises every year. Please be sure to join us for this special time.

Also on December 18 during the 10:30am service, Kathy Harper will be installed as Deacon for St Mary's. This has been a long and arduous journey for Kathy, come and help celebrate a milestone for her and St Marys. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall.

A Christmas Eve Candlelight Holy Eucharist service will be held at 8pm at St Mary's. It is especially moving as the church lights are dimmed and the candles lit to celebrate the birth of Christ. If a religious event can be called magical, this is it. A nursery will be available.

On Christmas day there will be one service at 10am. Hope to see you there!

Advent events and services

2011-11-28T14:44:00.001-05:00

The Christmas Angel ministry collects gift cards from various stores (Wal-Mart, K-mart, Publix, Winn Dixie, Sears, etc.) for local needy families with children during the Christmas season. Father Tim distributes the cards to needy families before Christmas. During this time of year he receives many requests for help. Gift cards are a wonderful way for parents to buy gifts for their children. If you would like to help simply place the gift cards in the collection plate on the following Sundays: December 4th, 11th and 18th. NOTE: Please be sure the amount is clearly marked on the gift card or envelope.

The Rector's Annual Chili party is December 4th from 5pm to 8pm! Please stop by to hang an ornament (provided by Tim and Meg) and enjoy the fellowship with a great bowl of chili. Please bring a plate of cookies to share. (10481 SE 68th Court, Belleview)

The ordination of Kathy Harper as a Deacon will be held in the Cathedral of St Luke's in Orlando on December 10 at 10am. Our choir will sing at the cathedral for the service.

The Children's Christmas Pageant with all the children of St Mary's will be during the 10:30am service on December 18. This is a special and moving pageant with surprises every year. Please be sure to join us for this special time.

Also on December 18 during the 10:30am service, Kathy Harper will be installed as Deacon for St Mary's. This has been a long and arduous journey for Kathy, come and help celebrate a milestone for her and St Marys. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall.

A Christmas Eve Candlelight Holy Eucharist service will be held at 8pm at St Mary's. It is especially moving as the church lights are dimmed and the candles lit to celebrate the birth of Christ. If a religious event can be called magical, this is it. A nursery will be available.

Christmas Day there is one service at 10am. A fine way to celebrate this Holy Season!

The office will be closed between Christmas and New Year's Day.

4th Bishop of Central Florida elected

2011-11-19T17:52:00.000-05:00

The Rev. Gregory O. Brewer, rector of Calvary-St. George’s Church in New York City, was elected on Nov. 19 as the fourth bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida, pending the required consents from a majority of bishops with jurisdiction and standing committees of the Episcopal Church.

Prayer Vigil Saturday Nov 19

2011-11-14T14:17:00.000-05:00

St Mary's will hold a prayer vigil beginning at 9am praying for the election of the new Bishop for the Diocese. The doors to the church will remain open and the prayer vigil will continue until word is received from our delegates in Winter Park that a new Bishop has been elected.

Please feel free to stop in and pray with others during the day. Someone will be there at all times.

2012 SMILE Team

2011-11-14T09:38:00.002-05:00

The 2012 SMILE Team now has a full complement of members. The new team is made up of 27 people. Fifteen members will travel to El Hogar Projects in Tegucigalpa, Honduras for a one week mission next May. Twelve additional members will be involved in fund raising, pre-trip planning and preparation and home team support while the work team is on-site. This approach proved most effective during our 2011 mission to El Hogar. We feel there is no reason to change a successful combination.

These twenty-seven people are but a small part of the Successful Combination. We all know that God created the chemistry among St. Mary's congregation, families and friends that generated the resources that made our 2011 work team mission as successful and rewarding as it was. The team asks for your prayers for God to bless the 2012 mission with the same spirit and determination to see his work done for the children of El Hogar de Amor y Esperanza.

Coupon class in January 2012

2011-11-11T10:51:00.001-05:00

Creative Cents Couponing-Couponing Class with Danielle Kruszewski

How would you like to save money at the grocery store? How about the drug store & department stores? Of course you would. Who wouldn’t?

Imagine how great it would be if we could purchase our groceries at a savings or even free?

Imagine how wonderful it would be to stock St. Mary’s Pantry for a fraction of the cost we normally pay? Imagine how many more people would be blessed by receiving food from St. Mary’s Pantry?

Please join us for a 2 hour couponing class presented by Danielle Kruszewski of Creative Cents Couponing January 14, 2012

1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Parish Hall of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

$15/person if you pre-register at www.creativecentscouponing.com

Cost: $20/person at the door
Watch for $10 coupon for this class in Ocala Star Banner at www.ocala.com. Click on Bargain Shouter.

There will be a sign up sheet in the Narthex.

Please spread the word to your family members, neighbors and other friends.

We are blessed to be a blessing to others.

Children's Sermon

2011-10-20T11:39:00.001-04:00

Fr Tim does a Children's Sermon just for the kids, but we adults listen, and while we may not admit it, he speaks to us in very plain terms. Enjoy this video of the sermon from October 16.

All Saints Day & Picnic

2011-10-19T17:36:00.000-04:00

All Saints Day, November 6, the church will be filled with dozens of hand colored crosses colored by everyone the previous Sunday. It is a special time to remember our loved ones.

Following the 10:30 service, join us for a huge parish picnic in the parish hall. Meat will be cooked by the Brotherhood of St Andrew and the side dishes will be provided by the parishioners. The ECW is coordinating the setup/cleanup and the dishes. Call Barbara Block 259.1151 to help. A sign up sheet is in the narthex for the side dishes.

Let's join together during this Fall weather to enjoy some good food and fellowship.

Intergenerational Sunday School

2011-10-19T17:23:00.000-04:00

October 30 is a very special time for all parishioners at St Mary's! We have Intergenerational Sunday School at 9:30. We will be coloring the crosses for all the saints names we have turned in to be hung in the church on All Saints Day, November 6.

Come and join us at this family affair as we remembered those who have departed in a special way. No talent required! You may surprise yourself!

Rummage Sale Nov 11-12

2011-10-19T13:59:00.001-04:00

We will hold a rummage sale November 11 Friday from 9 to 3 and Saturday November 12 from 8 to 2. Items will be economy priced for quick sales and good bargains. Everything from clothing to books to small appliances to sports equipment and much more will be available. The church is located three blocks down at 5750 115^th St (Babb Road) off US 441/27 at the Sweetbays intersection with US 301.

Contact Jody 307.7004 or Louise 307.1830 for any questions.

Bring your items Nov 7-10 Monday - Thursday 9-2 to the Parrish Hall. If you cannot bring them during that time, contact Jody or Louise to make arrangements.

Return to El Hogar!

2011-09-29T11:50:00.001-04:00

It is with happy hearts that we announce plans for the St Mary’s SMILE Team to venture on another mission trip to El Hogar de Amor y Esperanza (The Home of Love and Hope) in Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

We are planning an informational meeting Sunday, October 16th in the St. Mary’s Parish Hall at 12 noon. Church members will have the opportunity to fill any available openings on the team.

The SMILE Team will depart May 19, 2012 for a one week mission. We plan to fund the team through the same successful plan as last time. Each volunteer will be responsible for their own travel and living expenses. Overall team expense for supplies, gifts, and St. Mary’s contribution to El Hogar Ministries, will be provided through our fund raising efforts.

Our plan is to use contributions to purchase the items locally in Honduras.

If you or your family and friends would like to contribute to our mission general fund or sponsor a specific team member, please make your checks payable to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, and notate El Hogar Mission General Fund or Sponsorship of: Name. You can give your contribution to Leslie Gilbert in the church office or mail it to the following address: St Mary’s Episcopal Church, P.O. Box – 2373, Belleview, Florida 34421.

Once again, we will be using our team Blog to keep you updated as our plans progress.

Adult Sunday School begins 9/11

2011-08-24T09:59:00.000-04:00

Adult Sunday School class this fall, starting on September 11: Enchiridion on Faith, Hope and Love by St. Augustine. Available through any bookstore and as an ebook for Kindle or Nook. I will be using this translation, but any will be fine.

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Enchiridion-on-Faith-Hope-and-Love/Saint-Augustine/e/9780895267030/?itm=8&USRI=enchiridion

Enchiridion on Faith, Hope, and Love

search.barnesandnoble.com

Available in:Paperback. The Enchiridion on Faith, Hope, and Love was written by St. Augustine to supply a well-educated Roman layman with a brief but comprehensive exposition of the essential teachings of Christianity.

Sunday School for Youth and Children

2011-08-21T11:53:00.000-04:00

Sunday School for youth and children begins next Sunday August 28. We welcome children and youth of all ages to join in the fun and faith building experience. Our Sunday School Teachers are ready to go, be there! Sunday School starts at 9:30 and ends about 10:15 in time for those who serve on the altar to dress.

School Supplies....Aug 7 & 14

2011-07-31T17:16:00.000-04:00

The DOK is collecting school supplies for the kids in Marion County with large boxes in the narthex for you to put them in (the supplies, not the kids!). Please help by bringing some school supplies for the children. Money is tight and the families and schools just can't do it all. Maybe you can find some "twofer" deals!

In Remembrance of Sept 11 2001

2011-07-27T08:48:00.001-04:00

We are planning a special remembrance during Sunday services to remember those who lost their lives and those who worked so valiantly to help after the horrific attacks of Sept 11 2001. If you have ideas on how to do this, please offer your suggestions. If you lost someone that day and would like them remembered, please let Leslie or Father Tim know. We pulled together in faith and strength. Let us not forget.

Heads UP for Country Market Day

2011-07-18T12:50:00.000-04:00

St Mary's ECW will hold a County Market Day in the fall and we're looking to you to fill it up. We will have space for you to sell your handmade items, you home baked items, your home cooked items, your home grown items, and such all to benefit the ministries of ECW. The left over items will be returned to you except for the baked goods which we will try to sell the next day at Coffee Hour.

Homemade: jewelry, sewn items, knit items, crochet items, woodworking items, baskets, etc
Home cooked: jams, jellies, relishes, chutneys, sauces, vegs, fruits
Home grown: herbs, plant starters, etc
Home baked: cookies, cakes, breads, pies, candy, etc

More details coming later.

Sundae Sunday - Join us! July 3

2011-06-28T09:40:00.000-04:00

A special treat ... dessert before lunch!

Cool off with great ice cream sudaes after the 10:30 service.

We will supply ice cream, whipped topping and chocolate syrup.

YOU bring your other favorite toppings! Cherries, nuts, sprinkles, fruit, crumbles, candies...you name it!

A cool start to a hot Fourth of July!

Ed Rugenstein

2011-06-27T09:55:00.001-04:00

It is with heavy heart we inform you that our father and husband passed away early Wednesday morning. He shot an 88 on the golf course on Monday and died of a massive heart attack a little over 24 hours later. Ed would say, "That is a perfect end to a perfect life."

The visitation is being held at the Hiers-Baxley Funeral Home, 5946 S.E. Robinson Road, Belleview, FL on Thursday, June 30 from 5-7 PM.

Funeral service will be held at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, 5750 Southeast 115th Street, Belleview, FL on Saturday, July 2 at 10 am. Internment will be held immediately following the service in the Church Memorial Garden.

In lieu of flowers Ed requested donations to be made to the Building Fund of the Church. As many of you know, St Mary's and its recent construction has been a significant part of his life for the past several years. The church gave him great joy as he served his Lord and community.

St. Mary's Episcopal Church
C/O Building Fund
5750 Southeast 115th Street
BelleviewFL 34420-4336

We encourage you to visit Ed's memorial website at http://www.hiers-baxley.com/obituaries/Ed-Rugenstein/ and leave a comment or story of remembrance.

God bless you and your family.

The Rugensteins and Loyds

Donuts for Dad!!!! June 19th

2011-06-15T09:24:00.003-04:00

Dad's not forgotten on this special Sunday for him!

We have donuts and muffins along with coffee and juice served after each service. Come on Dads and those who love them or miss them, have a donut (or two or.....)We love you!

Pentecost Celebration & Picnic

2011-06-10T21:04:00.014-04:00

Catch the Fire!

This Sunday, June 12th, we will celebrate the birth of the Church with services at 8:00 and 10:30, then a picnic after the 10:30 service (about noon.)

It is a great time to invite a friend to visit and share in the joy of our shared faith and life together. Join us!
The picnic features burgers and dogs grilled by the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, side dishes provided by the gourmet chefs of St. Mary's, Music by the Beatitudes and Ed Rugenstein, a bounce house and big slide for the kids plus face-painting and balloon animals for the kids. Join us!

Catch the fire!

of the Holy Spirit alive and active at St. Mary's

Sunday May 29

2011-05-31T14:00:00.002-04:00

Coming Up!

Summer is a time to shift gears, relax and have some fun at St. Mary's. We have several special celebrations coming up in the next few weeks. Each of them presents a great opportuntity to invites friends who don't have a church or who haven't been connected lately. Christ is alive and visibly active in the life of St. Mary's!

On June 12th, Pentecost Sunday, we will have a parish picnic in celebration of the birth of Christ's church.

We'll have a bounce house and slide,

as well as clowns doing face-painting and balloon animals for the kids.

Members are invited to bring a side dish to share (sign up is available to ensure variety.)

Live music by The Beatitudes and Ed Rugenstein

On June 19th we will celebrate Father's Day with "Donuts for Dads." Everyone is invited to share a dad-style breakfast of donuts and/or muffins and coffee 9:15-10:10am, between services, and any leftovers will be available after the 10:30 service. All men will be given a small token of appreciation for their leadership in their families and community.

On July 3rd we will have our annual "Ice Cream Sunday." The church will provide ice cream and chocolate syrup and whipped cream. Bring your other favorite toppings to share. It's our way to have some fun in the summer heat. Just for one day, have a little dessert before you get your lunch!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

May 29th was a very busy Sunday at St. Mary's! Being Memorial Day weekend, we said special prayers and thanks for our military veterans and all those who sacrificed their lives for the liberties we enjoy as a nation.

It was Youth Sunday. Our Youth Group performed a skit at both services in thanksgiving for our Sunday School and Children's Chapel teachers. The Youth Choir sang a special anthem. We presented the teachers and Youth Director Darlene Collings with thank-you gifts on behalf of the whole congregation.

We honored graduating seniors Mallory Goolsby, Erin Lang and Kindal Moody and presented them with prayer blankets in the colors of their college or university (Central Florida College, Troy University and the University of South Carolina).

The Brotherhood of St. Andrew presented their president, Ken Browne, with a Sterling silver St. Andrew medal in thanksgiving for his extraordinary

leadership and dedication to our Lord in this and many other ministries he does.

It all made for a longer service than usual, but everyone shared in the joy of these celebrations and the very active presence of the Holy Spirit among us.

Homeward Bound

2011-05-22T14:03:00.002-04:00

Meet Astro The Wonder Dog. You'll never meet another like him. His durability, energy, and need to be in the middle of everything going on at El Hogar can only be matched by the kid's. He's in the middle of soccer, devotions, crafts, meal time, and anything else that might involve the kids. As with any dog, he is "Best Friend" to anyone and everyone that takes time to notice him, especially the kids. He does not lack for love, attention, or discipline (sound familiar?). One of our "chores" every morning was to feed the critters. There are bowls for water and food just outside the volunteer house door where Astro and several cats come to dine and relax. The cats do a lot more relaxing than Astro.

It's Sunday, May 22, and the team made it home and to church this morning. We are not quite as durable or energetic as Astro, but we do get credit for surviving Miami Customs and security with minutes to spare before departure of our connecting flight to Orlando. Once in Orlando, we boarded our coach to Belleview and St. Mary's. We were given a surprise welcome home by church members. Not just a warm welcome, but with Welcome Home signs, SMILEY faced cupcakes, sandwiches, drinks, and a show of warmth and love that compared to the send off we got from the children and staff at El Hogar. THANK YOU ST. MARY'S.

Saturday May 21 On the way to Orlando

2011-05-21T18:40:00.000-04:00

We are on the last flying leg...to Orlando. Then, in Orlando, we'll getout luggage (or not, who cares!) We'll hop on the bus, Gus!

Belleview, here we come!!!!!!

HOME -- where the heart is.....and the family....and the friends....and the hot showers......and the good beds......and finally to rest, sleep, peaceful sleep! God IS good.

Saturday May 21 We're in MIAMI!!!!

2011-05-21T16:49:00.000-04:00

We are on the ground in Miami, we need to clear customs. We catch our flight 588 at 6:30 to Orlando, landing at 7:30. We should be in Belleview around 9-9:30pm. Hot showers and big beds, here we come!!!!!

Saturday May 21 We're on the way HOME!!!!

2011-05-21T15:11:00.002-04:00

Friday May 20

2011-05-21T07:47:00.002-04:00

Our last day here, started with devotions and announcements with the children. Breakfast was banana bread, watermelon and Paul Hanson's great coffee.

The work team finished up the paint project early while the other team members put together all the "stuff" for our talent show and surprise packages for the 22 kids going to lunch with us today. What a treat that was. Photos will follow of 22 kids and four adults packing into a 15 passenger van, followed by another van with 14 team members and a driver. The trip to The Valley of Angels was another thrill ride through the mountains.

Matt Engleby, Executive Director of El Hogar Projects along with Raul Castro, Claudia Castro, their daughter Takarly or "Taki", and Arturo, one of the English teachers and EXCELLENT DRIVER, joined us and the kids for a delicious lunch.

We gave out toys for the girls and boys afterward. They had been chosen for this special event as a result of winning the spelling bee competitions held the week before we arrived.

Our trip back was just as much fun as going. We had a "brilliant" time this evening with the kids presenting their talent show. I had the honor of destroying the Spanish language with a short opening speech to introduce Fr. Tim.

They must have understood his Spanish better than mine, because they nodded and clapped as a result of whatever it was he said... SMILE. The team then performed their acts of magic, warm fuzzy skit, and "Go Out and Serve Him" to resounding applause. That brings up a point that should be made. Many of us on the SMILE Team have little or no Spanish language skills. This caused several of us to have reservations about how effective we could or would be when dealing with 100+ children and staff that had no English skills. That is NOT a show stopper. God`s work has it`s own language that served our activities here perfectly. We closed the talent show by giving out grab bags filled with warm fuzzies, smiley faces, coloring books, cookies, and candy.

Following the show, five of the team got to meet the three children they decided to sponsor as a result of their visit here. It's hard to decide on which child to sponsor. They are all so attractive, loving and thirsty for the missing elements that go with their circumstances. Each and every child came to each and every team member and gave us a hug as they left the building.

We got word that we would be leaving for the airport much earlier than originally planned due to the ex Presidente, Mel Zelayo, flying into the Tegucigalpa airport just about the time we planned to arrive. Not knowing what the potential for traffic, demonstrations, etc. might be, the El Hogar staff adjusted our trip earlier to hopefully avoid any potential for our missing the only flight out to Miami each day. Between that and all the other gossip going on around the world, we plan to relax at the airport and think about what we are going to wear to Sunday services at St. Mary`s. SMILE

There will be no more updates until Sunday P.M., when we pray hope to announce our safe arrival back in Belleview.

Adios.

Thursday May 19

2011-05-20T08:57:00.001-04:00

Today started with our usual meeting with the kids for devotions and announcements. Breakfast was eggs with green peppers and tortillas.

The presidential election was a resounding success. The actual Election is titled Elecciones Gobierno Escolar Escuela Hogar De Amor Y Esperanza 2011. There were four parties running for four seats.

The parties were Los Campeones, Union Y Fuerza, Transformando Vidas, and Amor Y Esperanza. Four positions were to be filled. Presidente, Vice Presidente, Secretario, and Fiscal. Each individual position could be filled by candidates from any of the four parties. However, the Amor Y Esperanza party won a clean sweep of all four positions. The winners were Jorje Alvarenga, Preseidente; Alexis Banegas, Vice Presidente; Elibe Castillo, Secretario; and Iris Munoz, Fiscal. This election was done really well, especially considering it was done by first through sixth graders. It was a very serious process for all participants and the end result was celebrated by all, regardless of their party preference. I found it somewhat ironic that a team from FLORIDA counted the ballots and certified the results... SMILE.

The work crew started on our paint project and several of the team went to an offsite soccer game with the kids.

After lunch, the team headed to the agricultural school for a tour. This school is open to graduates of the elementary school and has the same goal.

The young men that sign up for the Agricultural School are typically those coming from outside Tegucigalpa.

They will be better served by this area of study. Upon return, it was back to basics... Play and crafts with the kids.

I have been asked to help one of the math teachers with his college homework assignment. He is learning to read and speak English. My job is to listen to him read and assist with various words as needed. That should be a real treat for him as well... He will be the only Spanish math teacher with a southern accent when he speaks English... SMILE.

The team has been asked to participate in a talent show on our last night here. We will be doing magic tricks, singing the mission song that we end Sunday services with, and doing a Warm Fuzzy skit that ends with us handing out warm fuzzies to all the kids, along with candy of course..

Tomorrow the team will have our regular morning activities and after lunch, we will head to Valle de Angeles for a little last minute shopping and lunch with the 22 children that have been selected for a special treat as a result of their performance and behavior in school.

The team has had a full and enjoyable week, and tonight finds us wondering where the time has gone. Tomorrow is our last day, and we still have so much we want to do to serve our Lord here.

Our day is closed with one of our really fun debriefings and end of day devotions.

I don't think anyone will have a problem getting to sleep tonight.

Wednesday May 18

2011-05-19T08:00:00.003-04:00

The team would like to thank Sara Castelli for her overused support in getting these messages from us to you. She has amazing talent, and is always willing to share it to get the job done. Getting news and photos on this blog is complicated by our location, differences in equipment, programs and language ``especially keyboard¨s .. Ha!, but she always finds a way. THANK YOU SARA!!!

Today, the team joined the children for devotions and announcements at 0700am, followed by breakfast.

After breakfast, we journeyed to the El Hogar Technical School "Institute o Technico Santa Maria". The trip there

was a combination of enjoying beautiful vistas in this mountainous region and suffering the stark views of the abject poverty that dominates the area. We in the United States must take the time each day to thank God for our prosperity and quality of life. This trip really brought it home.

The tour of the school was exceptional.

We saw the young men training on woodcrafting, electrical, and metal

working skills. The craftsmanship and attention to detail was outstanding.

We had the opportunity to purchase their products, which are offered as part of their fund raising program. The school is a follow on to the education the boys received at the El Hogar elementary school. They study their technical craft in the morning and attend regular classes in the afternoon.

Their general education goes through the 9th grade. They will graduate with technical trade skills that will allow them to take jobs to help support themselves and their family. Most go on to work part time and attend university part time to further expand their skill base and potential for a better life.

The school is constructing a fish pond as a nursery to raise Tilapia. The whole campus is a picture of how El Hogar is constantly working to improve these young mens potential for a path out of poverty.

Our trip back to Tegucigalpa was just as bumpy and thought provoking as our trip out. The source of the problem is so obvious. But, the solution is so evasive. That is why El Hogars effort is so in keeping with their logo "The Home of Love and Hope." They are teaching young boys and girls the values, responsibilities, and initiative required to break the cycle of poverty that was so evident on our trip while giving them an outlook based on better things to come.

Our afternoon was filled with the following: Speeches from the young candidates selected for the Presidential election. The election will take place tomorrow. Craft classes conducted by our volunteers. Magic tricks for the kids. More painting by our work crew, and a new project of preparing the interior of an old dormitory for conversion to a library.

Dinner was spaghetti and tortillas. Then up and at em again for playtime with the children. The main goal of this team was to form relationships with these kids. In spite of the language barrier, that is surely happening. There is no way to describe how obvious Gods presence is. Perhaps a picture does replace a thousand words. If that's so, the photos provided through the channels described in previous updates will help you understand. As Claudia Castro said to us yesterday, "you see God in the faces of these children." We came here to put a smile on these children's faces. God has already taken care of that. We can only offer our support by aiding the source of the process he is using. El Hogar Projects.

Our day closes again with some down time at the guest house and nightly devotions.

Tuesday May 17

2011-05-18T08:12:00.002-04:00

Another great day. It started at 0700am with daily devotion with the children and teachers. After breakfast half of the team joined the students in Spanish, English, and Math classes, where we had the pleasure of assisting the teachers.

Father Tim had the opportunity to teach the entire English class when the teacher was called away. He used an two interesting scenarios. The first involved ordering a pizza and what toppings, using English. The second involved a visit to Chinatown in New York. You would have enjoyed seeing him in action in this unique arena. All team members got to rotate through classes throughout the school day. After classes, Tom Golden and Paul Hanson took on painting duties while the other members prepared crafts and entertainment for the children later in the day. We had lunch of rice, vegetables and tortillas.

After lunch, the team met with Claudia Castro and presented the gifts and supplies donated by everyone. We reviewed the planned crafts, entertainment and treats we wanted to do with the children tonight, just to make sure everything was in keeping with school policy. We are all impressed with how the teachers and staff follow very strict rules and guidelines with these children. If they misbehave, they get no treats that night, They are also put on work detail while the others play and do crafts with the team. It is impressive to see how well these children behave and respond to these teachers and staff members. This behavior is demonstrated to the work team as well. They are so courteous and polite.

Claudia suggested a plan to take 22 students out for Chinese food as a special reward for their performance. We had previously planned to order pizza to be delivered to the school compound, but these 22 students have earned special recognition and their preference was to go out and eat Chinese. Claudia was delighted that we agreed to support her plan. These students will join us during our visit to Valle de Angeles on our last day here. We asked Claudia if their supply requirements had changed since the last published Needs List. She shared the fact that they have started a new hair styling class for both boys and girls and they did not have necessary equipment. We decided to take the class instructor on a shopping trip to get needed tools and supplies. Both Claudia and the instructor were very excited and the deed was done before dinner.

Following dinner, we spent our evening doing crafts, games and treats with the kids. Don,t ever start making balloon flowers, bracelets and animals for that many kids unless you have more than two hand pumps and two toy makers. You also might want to bring some crowd control. The activity attracts a lot of little girls that love the balloon bracelets with a heart in the middle. Take lots of heart shaped balloons and quick hands. Ha! When I say crowd control, I mean it in a good way...

After returning to the newly named Guest House with the SMILE banner proudly displayed over the entry door, we had debriefing, many, many laughs about the days activities and generated many new suggestions on how we can better do our job tomorrow. We closed the day with devotions.

Monday May 16

2011-05-17T08:14:00.003-04:00

The first real workday. So far, so good... It starts after breakfast with morning devotions and national anthem with the children. We then met with Claudia Castro, Raul's wife, who is the school director. She educated us on the school and plans for us to share in the children's election process of their school president and cabinet. This phase was selecting their candidates. It was especially refreshing to see children learning about democracy through DOING. We will be treated to the actual election activity on Thursday. Seven of our team had the pleasure of participating in Math, English, and Spanish classes. We will rotate the opportunity tomorrow.

Following lunch, we did get to meet with the children for their nomination precess. So far, so good.

Following our meeting, we got our first taste of real work. Photos (see Facebook) will follow, but we got to use window screening to clean old clay roofing shingles recently removed from the main administration building so they could be painted and reused to roof the front facade.

The main roof has recently been replaced with metal. What fun... So far so good. Dirty work, but fun. We will continue this effort as part of our work project tomorrow. We also have a painting project to finish this week.

We just finished a fine dinner of tortillas, plantains, beans and cheese. We are headed to the play area to play with the children and share more treats. I'll give an update on remainder of this fine day late tomorrow evening. So far, so good.

Sunday May 15

2011-05-17T08:11:00.002-04:00

Today is Sunday. We started the day with a breakfast of pancakes topped with honey with a side of watermelon. We followed that with an exceptional experience going to a local church.

Where else but Santa Maria Episcopal Church in Tegucigalpa. What an experience... The entire service was in Spanish, with music accompaniment provided by guitar, keyboard, and drums. They needed no choir. The whole congregation was totally involved and sang with mucho gusto. What an experience! Photos will follow as soon as we figure out a method. (see photos on Facebook)

Church was followed with a trip to none other than McDonalds. Why the Golden Arches? We had the privilege of taking 11 of the children from El Hogar for a special Sunday treat. We enjoyed happy meals followed by ice cream. Raul Castro and I went to the airport to collect our missing bags and get them through customs. So far, so good. I am now fully qualified as a baggage handler. The team was excited to get clean clothes and the other goodies that were captured in their missing bags.

The evening was a wonderful experience meeting and playing with the children. This was a lot more fun, because we now had the goodies from our luggage to share in play.

The obvious hit were the soccer balls, followed very closely by the treats we got to hand out to 100 plus kids. So far, so good and getting better all the time. As with Saturday night, our day was brought to a close with our daily debriefing and devotions.

Saturday May 14

2011-05-17T08:09:00.003-04:00

Ken Browne and his lovely wife Pam, surprised the team with coffee, juice and pastries when we arrived at church at 4:00am, for our first leg to Orlando by coach. So far, so good... THANKS you two.

We got to Orlando and surprise, we got all the luggage checked and on/board with no surprises or complaints. So far, so good...

We arrived in Tegucigalpa after an uneventful flight ... with the exception of an approach and landing that would equal any fun park ride. So far so good.

We went to customs to collect our 28 suitcases and clear authorities. No luggage. So much for so far, so good. After much paperwork we were advised that we would get a call at El Hogar when our luggage was located. No problem, we-ll make do... We planned to be FLEXIBLE. This was a test. Ha!

Dormitory for the children.

(Note: team is unable to post photos on blog, visit St Mary's Facebook page to see photos)

Team Arrives

2011-05-15T06:52:00.000-04:00

All trips begin an adventure. The SMILE team is no different.The team arrived safely in Tegucigalpa BUT without any checked luggage! Each member had a carry-on bag and two checked bags. Most of the checked bags were stuffed with items for El Hogar. Since there is only one flight per day, my guess is that the luggage will join them today, Sunday. So begins the story! Stay tuned here for updates.

Smile Team Leaves

2011-05-13T20:34:00.002-04:00

Fifteen parishioners from St Mary’s Episcopal Church in Belleview left Saturday May 14 at 4:30 am for a week-long mission trip to El Hogar de Amor y Espranza in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. The team is taking tools, supplies, and gifts to support their work there performing maintenance and interacting with the children after school hours. They will return Saturday May 21. The team members learned several words and phrases in Spanish and Fr. Tim Nunez and his father Charles will serve as interpreters. The team was warned if they challenge the children to a game of soccer, to be prepared to lose! Soccer is a national pastime in Honduras and the children play very well.

The team has spent several months preparing and organizing this trip. Supplies for craft projects and clothing were gathered as well as preparing a first aid kit and obtaining bug spray. Jobs were assigned such as team photographer, scribe, “house monitor,” team leader, translators, and a person to insure all the travelers were together at various points in the trip.

This is St. Mary’s first foreign mission trip. To ensure all bases are covered, the “Away” team is supported by a “Home” team which operates “behind the scenes.” The “Home” team is, Horace and Mimmie Beckwith, Dick Block, Ken Browne, Sara Castelli, Joan Golden, Bud Horne, and Meg Nunez. They have worked together to raise funds, manage finances, organize meetings, keep the parish informed of progress and secure all travel plans and tickets. Donors from outside the parish have generously given their support to join with the parish.

The “Away” Team is pictured.

Away Team rear L-R: Phil Stegall, Dori Stegall, Philip Nunez, Ryan Lewis, Christin Hill, Fr. Tim Nunez, Paul Hanson, Virginia Collins;
front L-R: Eddie James, Tom Golden, Lee Moore, Charles Nunez, Barbara Block, Dennis Allen, Rhona Nunez.

Packing Day

2011-05-11T14:06:00.000-04:00

Who said "fragile"? Who said "handle with care"? Tom handed me a suitcase. I dropped it.

Thank goodness it was full of soccer and basketballs.

That was the worst thing that happened at our mission trip packing session Sunday. The session was actually a lot of fun. The team was upbeat after attending both Mother's Day Sunday services to thank the St. Mary's family for the fantastic support they have given the SMILE Team. Some evidence of their support is pictured in the two photos. The team packed 25 suitcases full of treats and supplies for the children and staff at El Hogar Projects.

We leave for Tegucigalpa, Honduras Saturday, May 14th at 4:30am. We are excited about the opportunity to distribute the toys, tools, food, and clothing that have been donated by the members, friends and relatives of our church family, and through the generous organizations and individuals outside St. Mary's.

Our thanks go out to everyone that has been a part of this wonderful show of love and compassion for the children at El Hogar de Amor y Esperanza.

"T" minus one month and counting

2011-04-14T08:39:00.003-04:00

Departure day for our mission is one month from today. We depart from the St. Mary's parking lot at 04:30AM on Saturday, May 14th. This mission would not be possible were it not for the tremendous support of the St. Mary's Church Family and our friends. The best way we can show our appreciation is to represent you in a way that makes the SMILE Team a school for compassion. We go to Honduras to learn and to grow in our faith. We go to change ourselves, not to try and change others. We hope to return with a new awareness of how God works in places so in need of His grace. Since 04:30AM is pretty early for most people, we don't expect a big send-off crowd on the 14th. However, if you would like to welcome the team home, our anticipated arrival time back at St. Mary's is on Saturday, May 21st at 9:30PM.

Hidden in Plain View

2011-04-05T11:37:00.003-04:00

Read the following through, before trying to solve it. The instructions are in the paragraph. Enjoy!

There are 30 books of the Bible in this paragraph. Can you find them? This is a most remarkable puzzle. It was found by a gentleman in an airplane seat pocket, on a flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu, keeping him occupied for hours. He enjoyed it so much, he passed it on to some friends. One friend from Illinois worked on this while fishing from his john boat. Another friend studied it while playing his banjo. Elaine Taylor, a columnist friend, was so intrigued by it she mentioned it in her weekly newspaper column. Another friend judges the job of solving this puzzle so involving, she brews a cup of tea to help her nerves. There will be some names that are really easy to spot. That's a fact. Some people, however, will soon find themselves in a jam, especially since the book names are not necessarily capitalized. Truthfully, from answers we get, we are forced to admit it usually takes a minister or a scholar to see some of them at the worst. Research has shown that something in our genes is responsible for the difficulty we have in seeing the books in this paragraph. During a recent fund raising event, which featured this puzzle, the Alpha Delta Phi lemonade booth set a new record. The local paper, The Chronicle, surveyed over 200 patrons who reported that this puzzle was one of the most difficult they had ever seen. As Daniel Humana humbly puts it, "The books are all right here in plain view hidden from sight." Those able to find all of them will hear great lamentations from those who have to be shown. One revelation that may help is that books like Timothy and Samuel may occur without their numbers. Also, keep in mind, that punctuation and spaces in the middle are normal. A chipper attitude will help you compete really well against those who claim to know the answers. Remember, there is no need for a mad exodus; there really are 30 books of the Bible lurking somewhere in this paragraph waiting to be found.

Mini Spanish Lesson 2

2011-03-15T10:06:00.002-04:00

The best laid plans sometimes go awry. That's the case with our plan to add a few Spanish words and phrases to our blog from time to time. The reason? Well, I find myself minus a few key symbols for adding the correct Spanish punctuation. What to do? I'll just have to identify what's what and ignore the missing punctuation.

Example: Question - Where is the restroom? Translates - Donde estan los servicios? A speech aid would go something like this (dohn-deh)(es-tahn)(lohs)(sair-vee-see-ohs).

This is all new to me too, so we'll try it out a few times and hopefully learn together. Who knows, it might turn out to be fun.

New Executive Director for El Hogar Projects

2011-03-02T12:37:00.003-05:00

Liz Kinchen, Executive Director of El Hogar Ministries, announced today that Reverend Matthew Engleby is the new Executive Director of El Hogar Projects in Honduras. For more detail, see the announcement page to the right.

Mini Spanish Lessons

2011-02-20T13:41:00.003-05:00

Like many of my teammates, the Spanish language isn't something I've mastered. With our mission trip coming up soon, this lack of language skills has taken on a new level of importance. It's funny how situations can change our priorities. This time, it's a good thing.

The SMILE Team thought it might be fun to share some of the useful Spanish words and phrases we are learning in preparation for our trip. We are taking them and their translations from those recommended in the El Hogar Work Team Handbook. You might find them helpful in your travels too. We will add a few at random, with no set pattern or schedule. We hope you will use and enjoy them as much as we do.

Estoy feliz - I am happy
Hasta pronto - See you soon

David Winsor's Visit to St. Mary's

2011-02-16T12:19:00.002-05:00

If you attended services at St. Mary's on Sunday, February 13th, you were treated to something special. Reverend David Winsor shared his experiences and touching stories related to his 30+ year relationship with El Hogar Ministries. When he described the young "nobodies" of Honduras, it was evident throughout the congregation that he had hit that special nerve that calls us to serve those that can't help themselves.

The St. Mary's Choir sang the Spanish Hymn titled "Canto de Esperanza" as a special acknowledgement of David's visit and their support of our Honduras mission team.

The congregation was invited to a presentation between services where David shared photos of life for the children at El Hogar Projects, and how mission teams are involved there. This was followed by an open Q&A session.

Showing an amazing energy level, David then spent considerable time with the St. Mary's mission team, aka "SMILE", at their monthly preparation meeting. The team gained a broader perspective of how we can best serve the Lord through our effort in May.

All in all, it was a wonderful and lasting experience for everyone involved.

The SMILE Team would like to thank you for your continued support of the team, our supplies drive, and our mission.

Thank You To St. Mary's Choir

2011-02-10T21:40:00.003-05:00

I can't carry a tune in a five gallon bucket. But, I know some people that can. Not only can they carry a tune, they can do it while singing in two languages. What a great experience to have the opportunity to sit in on St Mary's choir practice this evening. Lynn Pfeiffer led the choir in a Spanish Hymn titled "Canto de Esperanza". The song is based on an Argentine folk melody. Working with Lynn and Leila Gordon, the choir has been studying and practicing hard to learn the Spanish lyrics in preparation for our 10:30 service this Sunday. Why? It's simple. The choir wanted to surprise our guest, Reverend David Winsor, from El Hogar Ministries, with a sample of their support of our Honduras mission.

Don't take my word for it. Join us Sunday at 10:30 for a most enjoyable performance.

Many THANKS to the entire St. Mary's Choir.

Supplies and Fundraising Campaign

2011-01-16T13:24:00.003-05:00

The “SMILE” team invites you to visit with us for a unique opportunity. St. Mary’s has invited Reverend David Winsor, from El Hogar Ministries, to join our Sunday services February 13, 2011. You are also invited to hear David speak at a special session between the 8:00 and 10:30 services in the Parish Hall.

Please invite your friends and join the St. Mary’s family for this opportunity to hear the message from one who has experienced service to El Hogar de Amor y Esperanza firsthand.

In 1998 Episcopal Bishop Frade of Honduras appointed David and his wife Margo as Co-Executive Directors for the El Hogar Projects in Honduras where they served for two years. He has been involved with El Hogar Projects for over 30 years and in that connection has traveled to and preached in six Canadian provinces and about 25 states in the U.S.

The SMILE team leaves for our week long mission to El Hogar de Amor y Esperanza on May 14^th. If you or your friends would like to show your love to the children there through a contribution, please make your check payable to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, and note the purpose at the bottom. If you want your gift to go for a specific purpose or towards a specific person’s travel expenses, it is important that you indicate that at the bottom of your check. Mail your gift to: St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 2373, Belleview, Florida 34421.

There are other ways to help. The SMILE team is collecting and purchasing useful items to be delivered to El Hogar. There are specific things that the children need. If you would like to donate supplies for the mission, or if you have questions regarding this effort, please contact Dori Stegall at (352) 245-6719. Dori will make arrangements to pick-up and store your gift items until our trip.

PLEASE NOTE - There are things that we have been requested NOT to bring. The best approach to honoring that request is for us to stick to the list to the right in Pages, it contains the latest items needed with those more urgently highlighted.

2011-01-08T11:19:00.002-05:00

For those that haven't viewed the El Hogar DVD or VHS video, you can now borrow one from the St. Mary's church library. You have a choice of DVD or VHS. They will be available following the 10:30 service on January 9th. ENJOY!!!

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T10:45:00.001-05:00

A new year is upon us. As we kickoff 2011, the SMILE team wishes you a safe, productive, and spiritually fullfilling year.

Christmas

2010-12-07T10:28:00.002-05:00

Brrrr! It's cold out there. Florida weather sometimes makes it hard to think of Christmas being just around the corner. Today is an exception. Not only does the temperature measurement remind me, the newspaper offers it's measurement as well. It proclaims "only 17 more shopping days until Christmas." With these measurements in mind, here's a wintertime measurement that you should be aware of: The ratio of an igloo's circumference to its diameter = Eskimo Pi.

Temperature and shopping days may vary. But, there's one measurement that will never vary- How much God loves you. He sent his son, Jesus Christ, to save us from our sins. There are only 17 more days until we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

As we approach this wonderful event, the St. Mary's mission team wishes you a safe, joyous and Christ inspired experience of God's love.

2010-11-29T16:32:00.003-05:00

The "Smiles" just keep coming. I received a wonderful phone call from Louise Adams today. Representing St. Mary's order of the Daughters of the King (DOK), Louise shared the news that the DOK have voted to contribute $200 to the mission general fund in support of our Honduras mission. With support like this, the "SMILE" team will be positioned to provide much needed supplies to El Hogar Projects. THANK YOU DOK. THANK YOU ST. MARY'S!

Kazoos

2010-11-23T14:36:00.005-05:00

As previously mentioned, various ministries within our church have already committed their partnership and financial support to this mission. Well, one of their ideas is a real hoot. Maybe that should be "toot". Sara Castelli, representing the Episcopal Church Women (ECW) at St. Mary's, has shared the fact that the ECW is purchasing 125 kazoos for the children at El Hogar Projects. I'm not sure if they will come with an adequate supply of earplugs or not.

Can you imagine the wondrous sound of 100+ children entertaining themselves with such a melodious device? There's no better common language than music. My attention to gaining language skills for the trip must now be divided between Spanish and The Kazoo.

Perhaps a quick review of some interesting facts about the kazoo is in order.

The kazoo is one of a type of instrument known as a mirliton. The African horn mirliton was used to distort voices at tribal gatherings, somewhat like using masks in later theater productions in other countries. The kazoo has been widely used in American folk music. Emil Sorg and Michael McIntyre created the first production run of kazoos in New York in 1912. McIntyre patented the kazoo in 1923. Though it has never caught on with professional musicians, the most enthusiastic artists - kids - keep the lowly kazoo in production.

Speaking of production, I can hardly wait to hear the first rendition of "He's got the whole world in His hands" being performed by the El Hogar de Amor y Esperanza all kazoo orchestra.

Here's to you and your kazoo!

Team Name

2010-11-14T17:27:00.004-05:00

We now have a team name. Check it out. At today's team meeting, six team names were suggested. The group selected "SMILE" as our team moniker. SMILE is an acronym for "St. Mary's International Love Expedition.

Since this is our first International Mission and it was prompted by our love for the children of Honduras, we feel the name represents our purpose. The SMILE represents the pleasure we receive in representing our Lord.

Thanks to all that participated.

Working Together

2010-11-10T17:58:00.005-05:00

There's an old saying that "Working together works".

Well, the St Mary's congregation is WORKING, and the result is fantastic. The support and ideas the mission team is getting let's us know that the children of Honduras have St Mary's attention. When you get this crowd's attention, look out. Nothing but good will come of it.

The team got behind right out of the blocks. We hadn't even started any type of fund raising campaign and the various ministries within the church have already committed their partnership and financial support. Their ideas and suggestions on how the team can serve the Lord through the children of El Hogar Projects help us maintain a broad perspective.

The Mission Team will be meeting this Sunday. One of our goals is to come away with a new team name. You should see the result of that effort in our next Blog entry. Stay tuned.

Don't forget, the children of Honduras need your help. Please take the time to read the entry to the right. It shares why these children need your attention and how you can offer it through financial support of St Mary's mission team.