In May of 2010, I had the privilege of traveling to the African country of Angola for a short mission trip. Our Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church has a partnership with the East Angola Conference of the UMC, and we have had missionaries serving in Angola for many years. Part of our mission emphasis for July will be the Florida/East Angola partnership.
The infrastructure of Angola was destroyed during the 27 year civil war that began in 1975 and ended in 2002. The church has been very involved in efforts to alleviate human suffering in Angola that resulted from extreme poverty, widespread disease, and a lack of resources for medical care. When I was in Angola in 2010, the missionaries serving there included Ms. Icel Rodriguez and her husband, Rev. Armando Rodriguez, who is a United Methodist pastor. Icel is the director of global missions for our Florida Conference, and she will be here Sunday to share the exciting ministry that has taken place over the years as a result of the Florida/East Angola partnership. Icel has a contagious love for the people of Angola, and she is an excellent speaker.
Remember also that starting this Sunday, June 30, at 5:00 pm we have “The Five” in the fellowship hall at Grace. This will include a meal, casual worship and fellowship, and outreach to our neighbors.
I look forward to seeing you at Grace on Sunday. Thank you for your continued prayers as we merge Grace and The Open Door.
Pastor Steve Hart