Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

San José Mission in Pierson has recently undergone significant renovations, transforming its sanctuary with the help of a dedicated community. Despite being a low-income area, the community's efforts have resulted in substantial improvements to their church.

Father Ramon Alfredo Ortiz, the administrator of San José Mission, expressed his gratitude: “We are a community with low income, but with heart and love, miracles happen.” The desire to update and expand the church had been present for some time. However, recognizing others in greater need, the community initially raised $5,000 for Father Ortiz's missionary trips to assist recovery efforts after a hurricane disaster in Acapulco.

When it was found that these funds were not required for their original purpose, parishioner Angeles Velasquez suggested using them for renovations. Additional donations and volunteer work led to enhancements such as new lighting fixtures on the ceiling and sconces holding statues of Mary and St. Joseph. The sanctuary now features tile flooring instead of vinyl and new Stations of the Cross donated by different families.

A new perpetual Adoration chapel was also created alongside a space for Reconciliation. Father Ortiz personally designed a new baptistry using his creativity. These renovations were completed within three months.

“We have been blessed. This is a simple but beautiful result,” said Father Ortiz during the dedication ceremony on November 9th—a date significant as it coincides with the memorial of the Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome.

Addressing those gathered at Mass, Father Ortiz thanked everyone involved: “Thank you all for giving with love and faith and believing; in the name of the Lord we can do great things.”

Velasquez described this renovation effort as "the fruit of our commitment" while reflecting on her 32 years since arriving in America and involvement with food ministry fundraising activities over 25 years ago: “The least I can do for Father God is offer these small sacrifices.”

Among those attending was Alicia Figueroa who reminisced about early mission days when Masses took place outdoors or at neighboring homes due to lack facilities nearby before establishing permanent grounds through collective contributions from immigrant laborers working locally without transport options available then—$500 each went towards building what stands today!

Gladys Alvarez shared memories too; wife late Deacon José Miguel Alvarez serving first deacons here raising family until relocating closer Orlando area honoring husband’s service begun back '85 appreciating opportunity be part such vibrant faith-filled environment ever since…

As Bishop John Noonan joined cutting ribbon alongside joyful mariachi band leading congregation into newly enhanced sacred space declared: “The Church lives as sign testimony love through which God takes care His people… Without faith there no future possible!”