Stories of Hope with Melina of Casa Hogar

From the Desk of Stories of Hope with host, Julia Kasten

I’m happy to introduce Melina Martinez, who is a crucial part of the work that gets accomplished on Project Mexico’s 16-acre ranch in Baja California. She is part of leadership, and the second hand to Guillermo (Director of the Orphanage Programs). Melina helps Guillermo raise the boys, organizes the children’s doctor’s appointments, and makes sure that holidays are celebrated in full joy. From the Desk of Stories of Hope, I sat down with Melina to discuss how she is able to see the image of God in her everyday work.

Stories of Hope (SoH): What does the phrase, ¨The Image of God¨ mean to you?”

Melina: For me, the ¨Image of God¨ is every child and adult, every person that is at the ranch. Because God manifests through every life. So, for me, to think in the image of God is to think about my brother, or to think about whoever is in front of, or around me.

SoH: You’re working every day with difficult children and challenging situations. Is it hard to remember God, and life in Christ, when you’re worried about all the little things, like paperwork and mealtimes?

Melina: I use the phrase “Lord have mercy” a lot in my day. Or I use the person in front of me to say for example, “Lord have mercy on Julia.” I also go to church, but it is hard because my relationship with God doesn’t feel so good right now. Sometimes it’s easier to just not go to church, or very difficult to focus my thoughts. I know that these things [church and prayer] are the answer, and I am teaching this to the children, but sometimes it’s a struggle to do it myself.

SoH: How does working with the boys of Casa Hogar affect you?

Melina: I like to think that God is with all of us, through the good and bad moments. It is a great work in me, and I am grateful, primarily to God, that he brought me here and gave me an opportunity to work for this institution. I feel that returning to work here is a way to be able to show my gratitude and thanks to God, and be able to return a very little part of the many blessings that I have been given. Everyday can be a battle, but because I feel grateful, I am able to be happy in my work.

SoH: How do you approach caring for others?

Melina: I like to think, if you have love, give love, even if people say don’t. If you have compassion, give compassion to whoever you can. It’s not me, God put me in this place. God can move us to his path. Many times during work, the young kids will get angry, frustrated and difficult. We have to have compassion on them, and understand that it’s not them, but what they represent. So, I ask, how can I take care of God through the person that is right in front of me?

Our annual matching grant is in full swing. We are grateful to our generous grant sponsors for pledging $100,000 (at the time of this writing) and between now and December 31st, 2024 you can double your gift!

A Letter from the Chairman, Dennis Awad

Dear Friends and Suporters,

Our new infant orphanage, Casa Cuna San Felipe was dedicated on June 28 with over 270 supporters and volunteers who gathered together at our 16-acre ranch in Northern Baja. Fifteen priests lead the gathered guests and homebuilding volunteers in singing hymns of glory. Everyone sensed that a once in a lifetime moment was about to happen. The cutting of the ribbon to enter this special place was done and a refuge for God’s children was born.

At Casa Cuna I watched as the volunteers carefully mounted pictures and icons 2 and 3 feet from the ground so our little ones could see the images when they walked into their little chapel that was made for them. Our homebuilding program welcomed over 600 volunteers from all over the world, including an Orthodox family from Thailand. These dedicated volunteers built 28 homes for those in need. I saw the volunteers as they worked tirelessly constructing a home for a family in the local community. The new inhabitants of these safe and secure homes wept in joy and gratitude when the keys to their new homes were turned over to them.

Our mission to provide hope was being fulfilled by these young adults, parents and senior citizen mentors as they toiled in the hot sun. Our ministry changes the lives of those that are in need while the love of working in community together draws us closer to God. As the chairman of the board of trustees, I see the image of God in his

people who work here at Project Mexico. I also recognize those who selflessly give of their time and talents to serve others. This remarkable ministry is made possible by your generous financial support and we are thankful that you are our brothers and sisters in Christ.

With Gratitude,

Dennis Awad, Chairman

Our annual matching grant is in full swing. We are grateful to our generous grant sponsors for pledging $100,000 (at the time of this writing) and between now and December 31st, 2024 you can double your gift!

God's Image Gives Life

Blessed Country

We all need to be reminded that God has blessed our country, therefore let us share our blessings with those in need. Hence the Orthodox community in the United States, from all jurisdictions, travel to Mexico to bring relief to families who are plagued by third-world conditions. This is no easy task, but we are up for the challenge.

During the 2024 Homebuilding season, we built 28 homes with over 600 missionaries. Humanity is created to rise above the tragedy of this world. In Psalm 82, which we chant every Holy Saturday, the Lord shouts out to us that we are gods therefore do not die as mere mortal men (Ps. 82:6-7). We are made in the image of God (Gen. 1:26) and are different than all of creation. This difference allows us to preform inconceivable feats, overcoming the most dire of obstacles. This image of God in us is the reason for Project Mexico’s success and continues to fuel its progress throughout every moment.

For over a decade, my family and I lived in Mexico at the St. Innocent Orphanage caring for the boys day-to-day. Waking up at 5:00 am for morning prayers was draining but the larger challenge was to persevere as the children struggled through the trauma of being abandoned. The streets of Tijuana is no place to call home. Violence, prostitution, drug cartels and abuse are the sad reality of inner-city life. Thank God the Orphanage exists to provide a safe place where these boys can grow and experience the joys of life.

As the Executive Director, I now have the responsibility of leading Project Mexico so that all facets of this pan-Orthodox organization can be successful in the eyes of God. The life-giving inspiration that provides the energy to continue shines through the children’s example. Seeing God in the love, perseverance, hope, joy, and patience of these little ones is not only encouraging but transformational. God’s Image is undeniably present in the boys, and now in the little infant girls too, at the St. Innocent Orphanage and San Felipe Casa Cuna. Let us all see this image and, no matter the challenge, rise to do amazing things in Jesus Christ.

Our annual matching grant is in full swing. We are grateful to our generous grant sponsors for pledging $100,000 (at the time of this writing) and between now and December 31st, 2024 you can double your gift!

Indulge in Fresh, House-Made Fig Jam and Support a Great Cause

The Holiday Season is a Perfect Time for Jam!

Are you a fan of unique, high-quality, artisanal products? Look no further! We are excited to introduce *Padre’s Fig Jam*, a fresh, house-made delight crafted with love and care. Made exclusively from handpicked figs cultivated on our very own fig trees, this jam bursts with rich, natural flavor in every bite. Perfect for toast, cheese boards, or even as a sweet addition to your favorite recipes, this fig jam is a treat you don’t want to miss.

But that’s not all—when you purchase a jar of *Padre’s Fig Jam*, you’re not just indulging in a delicious product, you’re also making a difference. Every dollar from your purchase goes directly to benefit the children of **St. Innocent Orphanage**, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing care, education, and support to orphaned children. Your purchase will help fund essential programs and resources, giving these children hope for a brighter future.

You can enjoy this delicious jam and contribute to a meaningful cause by shopping exclusively through our online store. It’s as easy as hitting the button below to place your order and have this house-made jam delivered right to your doorstep.

Don’t wait! **Shop now** and savor the taste of *Padre’s Fig Jam* while supporting children in need. Together, we can make a sweet impact—one jar at a time.

*Order before December 12th, 2024 to ensure Christmas gift arrival.

Support St. Innocent Orphanage’s Back-to-School Preparations

Northern Baja, Mexico – July 29, 2024 – Project Mexico welcomed over 250 guests to our 16-acre ranch in northern Baja on Friday, June 28th, to celebrate the grand opening of Casa Cuna San Felipe, the only Orthodox Christian Infant Orphanage in NAs the new school year approaches, the children and young boys at Casa Hogar are gearing up for their return to the classroom. Schools in Mexico require meticulous organization of educational materials, and our dedicated staff is currently facing the challenge of preparing supplies for twenty-two boys.

The process involves tagging and color-coding a range of items including books, pens, pencils, compasses, and art supplies. This task is crucial to ensure each child is well-equipped and ready to excel in their studies. To support our efforts, we are reaching out to our community and supporters for assistance.

We have created a convenient Amazon needs list to streamline the process for those who wish to contribute. Your support, whether big or small, will make a significant impact on the boys' educational experience and help them start the school year with confidence.

To view the list and make a contribution, please visit [Insert Amazon Needs List Link Here]. Every donation helps us in our mission to provide quality education and a nurturing environment for the children of Casa Hogar.

We deeply appreciate your continued faith, love, and support. Together, we can make this school year a memorable and successful one for the boys at St. Innocent Orphanage.

Growth and Life by Julia Kasten

Essential Ingredients to Inspire Growth

The life-changing and substantial ingredients that inspire growth aren't the most significant events or the most dramatic changes. They're often simple acts and choices that we make each day. I know this isn't an uncommon idea, but when you experience growth that turns into consistency and habit, it becomes a foundation for beautiful things to develop.

I have been working at the Casa Cuna infant orphanage since we received our first child. I have witnessed how quickly kids ages 0-2 develop. Everything sticks with them. From learning the daily routine and knowing that washing our hands means it's time to eat, to talking to them in well-spoken language, we must be mindful that they indeed soak it all up and mimic us. We see them begin to imitate our practices in church. They now know how to kiss icons and recognize a cross.

The other day, we got them all in high chairs and at the table ready for a meal. Queadan (my coworker) and I made the sign of the cross, in preparation to eat. Three of the kids were very watchful. They clumsily copied our motion while only looking at us. It made me think about the foundation and way in which I was raised. Always going to church on Sundays, praying before meals, asking forgiveness, and living in the community. It is a way of life that pushes me to grow and seek my faith.

The position I have found myself in now creates opportunities for me to foster the same foundation for children. But much of the work is in the everyday. Taking the babies for walks and telling them that God created everything they see and or allowing them to kiss the same icon 15 times in a row. Even if they aren't aware of our action, they feel it. It is part of that foundation.

This has made me see where my own spiritual foundation can be improved and learn how to grow. I’ve noticed the change isn't to read a Bible chapter every day but to say "Lord have mercy," during those quiet moments. My work with the infants reminds me that whatever effort I put into growing my relationship with Christ, it will in turn cultivate a foundation in Christ for the children.

Authentic Faith

This Spring, 2023, I was blessed with the opportunity to join the Project Mexico organization as a member of their long-term staff. At face value, that might sound like a trivial matter, but in all truthfulness, it’s a miracle, since just a year ago I wasn’t aware Project Mexico existed. 

Last December, while searching for summer internships, I recalled a comment a friend had made about ministry work. Without a name to search for, I searched until I discovered Project Mexico’s website. I promptly filled out an application for a summer-long internship, unrelated to my field of study, on the opposite side of the continent in a foreign country.

Project Mexico asked me to come for the spring break build and then to stay on as an intern for the summer. At last, I found myself boarding a one-way flight to Tijuana, Mexico. God works in mysterious ways, and “in a general sense, the Orthodox Church considers everything which is in and of the Church as sacramental or mystical.” It is all a great mystery that our simple minds will never be able to fully comprehend; thus, man was made to have faith in God.

“What is ‘experience’ in spiritual life, dearest Father?”
“A comb that you acquire when you go bald.”
“So, isn’t it useless?”
“No, because you can then use it to comb the hair
of others!”

”

— Saint Porphyrios’ Testimony of Metropolitan Neophytos Morfou

Genuine faith is not a blind leap in the dark but rather confidence in the goodness and power of God, or the existential everyday trust in the promises and gifts of God. He is “the Way, the Truth and the Life.”

What else do we require?

Personally, I know I have been blessed greatly. The seasons between homebuilding feels very different and beautiful in a peaceful way. I’ve been working with our homebuilding coordinator, interviewing families and learning the life stories of the people we serve. I’ve also been working with the children of St. Innocent Orphanage, who force me to examine my shortcomings and to grow. Most importantly, I’ve been given the opportunity to live and work with people who desire to serve Christ.

“What is ‘experience’ in spiritual life, dearest Father?”

“A comb that you acquire when you go bald.”

“So, isn’t it useless?”

“No, because you can then use it to comb the hair of others!”

--Saint Porphyrios Testimony of Metropolitan Neophytos Morfou

With God’s help, let us walk by faith, in humility and in gratitude. Let us not bury and hide our talents, but “whatever we do, do it all for the glory of God.” Let us expose our darkness to the light of Christian truth, “for whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord.” Amen.

Written by Margarita Mavroeidi - Long-term Missionary Staff

Christmas at St Innocent Orphanage

A joyous celebration of Christmas at St Innocent Orphanage

The Spirit of Christ is alive at St Innocent Orphanage during Christmas

Christmas at Project Mexico & St Innocent Orphanage 2022 (Hi-Def, 4k) In this heartwarming video and photo collage, the staff and children of Project Mexico and St Innocent Orphanage in Baja Mexico celebrate Christmas and all its blessings at the only 100% donor-supported Orthodox Orphanage in North America. Because of the efforts of our generous donors, we were able to surpass our $200,000 Annual Matching Grant goal of 2022. This will ensure that the children of St Innocent Orphanage are provided with the best care, education and support they need to be successful.

Twice as Much Good by The Alex Family

 When we first visited the Ranch as a family, we could not have anticipated the impact Project Mexico and St. Innocent Orphanage would have on our lives. The week before Christmas several years ago, we were blessed to visit the orphanage and attend Liturgy in the chapel. With the boys sitting at his feet, Father Nicholas began his sermon. Luke, his son, translated from Spanish, “it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” 

Father Nicholas’s next words are etched in our minds as he gestured to the boys and said, “You are the rich ones. You have food, shelter, an education, faith, and people who love you. Tomorrow, we will go to the border to feed the poor.” 

The next day, after making countless tamales, we joined the boys, staff, and Father and his family in a caravan and set off to feed the homeless near the border in Tijuana. As word of the food spread, a line formed around the block. Our group worked behind the table to serve tamales, rice, and beans. Father Nick stood in the bed of his pick-up truck and led us in Christmas carols. The experience of being part of the boys’ Christmas preparations and celebrations, for us, remains one of the most powerful examples of the amazing work happening at the orphanage every day.

The lives of the boys, but also those of the staff and volunteers, are transformed because of the generous support of donors like yourselves. The staff provides the boys with a loving, family environment and educational opportunities and/or vocational training to give them the chance to lead independent, faithful, and fulfilling adult lives. This year, seven boys are studying at universities in Mexico, a laudable goal within the reach of many of our boys. Vocational training ensures that boys have skills to sustain themselves as young adults. 

This past spring, Alejandro became the first boy from St Innocent to graduate from Hellenic College in Brookline, MA. Alejandro is a model young man for the younger boys in the program to strive to emulate. His powerful example motivates them to apply themselves to their schoolwork, but also to their care and support of one another, like brothers. 

Homebuilding returned with fervor this year, after a hiatus due to COVID. Over 400 volunteers traveled across the border to “do for others” and built sturdy, safe, weather-tight homes that provide impoverished families with previously unattainable stability and comfort. Perhaps the most touching building project was the home completed for Humberto and his family. Humberto is one of our boys, who has grown and matured into a thoughtful young man with a beautiful Orthodox family. 

This Christmas season, your gift can do twice as much good for Project Mexico & St. Innocent Orphanage. We have received a challenge grant that will match all gifts made from now to the end of the year. This year when  you make a tax-deductible gift to Project Mexico, you’re helping to change the lives of the 26 boys who are blessed to call “the ranch” home. 

Your gift also provides inspiring opportunities for Orthodox young adults and their elders to come together in fellowship to build homes for some of Northern Mexico’s most impoverished families, supporting the vital mission work of our Church.

We hope you will join us this giving season with a gift to  Project Mexico & Saint Innocent Orphanage. Please consider making this worthy ministry among your philanthropic priorities this Christmas.

Wishing you the blessings of Christmas.

In Faith,

The Alex Family 

George, Marlena, Ginny, and Ellie

Padre's Fig Jam Now Available for Holiday Gifts

We are so thrilled to share this amazing treat with you! I have spent the last few weeks hand crafting jars of Fig Jam. Each batch of Padre's Fig Jam uses figs cultivated from our home grown fig trees. 

This small batch boutique jam is available exclusively through our online store and also from the Tienda if you happen to be on the ranch. Proceeds from the purchase of these artisanal jams directly benefit the children of St Innocent Orphanage. 

These make excellent gifts. We recommend gift wrapping them immediately otherwise you run the risk of opening and eating through your jar before you can gift it to your friends and or family!

In Christ,

Anna Cunningham

Project Mexico & St Innocent Orphanage