Dominican Republic First United Methodist Church of Brandon has been involved in mission in the Dominican Republic for approximately 15 years.  Our church is a long-time sponsor of Connie DiLeo, a United Methodist missionary in the Dominican Republic.  With Connie’s help, we are working through C.O.P.A. (Community Partners Association) to help with 2 villages located on the southwestern corner of the D.R.  These two villages (Bombita and LaHoya) are representative of some of the poorest villages in the Dominican Republic.  10 of us traveled to Bombita for 7 days in July 2008.  While we were there, we held V.B.S. and a soccer camp, and also painted buildings, sanded doors, built concrete walls, etc.  Of course, we found plenty of time to play and worship, too. 

Our 2009 summer mission trip will be July 5-13 and the approximate cost is $850 per person.  The age requirement is as follows:  13-17 years of age must have a parent or grandparent accompany them; all others, 18 and up, may go as well.  A deposit of $100 will hold your spot on the team.  All deposits are due by March 1st, 2009.  The first 20 people to get their deposits in will make up the mission team.  There are 4 meetings required before we travel in July.  This is by no means a vacation and we work really hard while we are there.  We will be leading a Youth Camp for the Dominicans in the two villages.  This should be an amazing experience as we lead approximately 75 Dominican teenagers in play, praise, and worship.  Take a step out of your comfort zone and join us on this great opportunity to witness for our Lord.

Through C.O.P.A., we also have the opportunity to sponsor one of the children in the two villages.  For $15 a month, you can help this child with their school uniform expense, their books, and provide a small hot meal for them each day.  There are brochures in the narthex that you can complete and mail to C.O.P.A. to participate in this outreach.  You will receive a picture of your child and he/she will write to you twice a year and update you on what is happening in their lives.  They’ll look forward to you writing to them as well.

If you would like more information about C.O.P.A., go to www.copa.org.uk or email Frankie Cross, our Dominican Republic Missions Outreach Coordinator, at SFL53302@allstate.com.