Feeding Body and Soul
Leaders of groups that volunteered at this year’s Easter Banquet had the following comments about their participation.
First Baptist Church of Orlando
Patrick Barrett, Missions Pastor
The members of First Baptist volunteer at the Easter Banquet because we love imitating Christ by serving the neighbors He described as “the least of these my brothers and sisters.” We share His love with them, make personal contact with with them, and remind them how valuable they are. The volunteers get as much out of the event as the visitors whose feet we wash.
First Methodist Church of Oviedo
Pastor Brian James
Since the first foot-washing event, First Methodist of Oviedo has been blessed to be a part of the ministry that the Mission provides to the Orlando community’s most vulnerable on Good Friday. It is a humbling privilege to offer the gospel of Jesus Christ through simple gifts of hospitality, sustenance, compassion, and care on a day that followers of Jesus are called to focus on what Christ has done for us. God bless you OURM servants!
Action Church
Tina Comesso, Outreach Coordinator
The members of Action Church are inspired and touched by the chance to serve the homeless at the Easter Banquet. We were blessed to donate 500 pairs of new shoes for the event and then wash the feet of and pray for neighbors who are in such desperate need. Serving the Lord by working with the Mission was a special blessing to everyone who participated, and we look forward to volunteering again next year.
Everlasting Covenant Community Church
Pastor Aubrey Hayslip
The members of Everlasting Covenant have very much enjoyed participating each year in the hands-on ministering to our brothers and sisters in need. The Mission does a wonderful job of organizing and hosting this marvelous event, and I know everybody who attends and participates is truly blessed.
St. Michael’s Episcopal Church
Fr. Rick Luoni, Rector
St. Michael’s loves volunteering with the Mission and sharing Christ’s love with the community. We get to be part of an event that serves our most vulnerable neighbors, reflects the love of Jesus in a way that imitates His service to the disciples, and helps transform the lives of homeless men, women, and children. We look forward to the Easter Banquet each year.
Better Life Worship Center
Pastor Nelson Bloem
This year was the second Easter Banquet we have volunteered for. It was a profoundly moving experience. To feel like an instrument of Jesus’ love, directly serving those often unseen and forgotten, filled us with an incredible sense of purpose and connection. It was a truly powerful and grace-filled moment.
South Orlando Baptist Church
Joann Britton, Volunteer Ambassador
The members of South Orlando Baptist look forward to ministering to the lost, especially during the Easter Banquet, by encouraging, praying, serving meals, washing feet, and distributing gifts. By volunteering, we are uplifted and become more grateful to God for the opportunity to express our love for Him by serving others.
Florida Merchant Services
Yanica Maldonado
This Easter Banquet was First Merchant Services’ first time volunteering with the Misison. It was a great experience, and we are looking forward to working at many more events.