Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.
Matthew 25:40
Service trips provide an opportunity to step outside of oneself and to seek Christ in others through Liturgical services, fellowship, and ministry. Although service begins at home, joining a service trip is often an opportunity to move out of your comfort zone, and help you gain a different perspective while reigniting the Spirit of service within you.
Saint Mary & Saint Mark Coptic Orthodox Church, Puerto Plata, is the first Coptic Orthodox Church in the country, and Orthodoxy is a new concept for many of the locals. Regular church services began as of March 2024, and with a growing community, lots of work needs to be done, and many servants are needed to spread the love of Christ. At its core, the teachings of Christ are not foreign to the locals of the Dominican Republic, in fact it is the only country with a Bible and a Cross in its flag. What is needed here is a strong sense of community, pastoral care and the rich liturgical practices and traditions found in Orthodoxy.
Anyone and everyone is welcome to come serve and witness the Glory of God at work. Whether you are an individual, a couple, a family with children, or a youth group that is looking to share in God’s work, we encourage you to consider serving in Puerto Plata.
Padre Granero & Bello Costero
Our church is located walking distance from the two communities that we serve, Padre Granero and Bello Costero. Our community walks are a highlight for most individuals that come to serve. During these walks, groups will sometimes gather the children for service, and other times they will run a mobile medical clinic service. This is an impactful opportunity for groups that allows them to meet the locals in their homes and see Christ in each one of them.
Children’s Ministry
Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 19:14
The children in the community are the future of our church and they are an immense source of blessing for us. Many of them have found refuge in the church and have begun their journey towards catechesis and baptism. They regularly attend our weekly children’s ministry and deacon’s prep.
Groups that are looking to come and serve are encouraged to plan a children’s spiritual program before coming. Groups often teach bible stories, put on skits, do crafts, and play games with them. The children are always happy to come to church for services and activities.
Medical Services
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28
We invite medical health professionals to come serve with us and run medical clinics for the community as well as surrounding rural areas of Puerto Plata. Although healthcare is available for most people, the cost of doctor consultations and prescription medications is overwhelmingly high for many. There is a high demand for dentists and by the grace of God, we currently have a fully equipped dental clinic. Other healthcare professions that are needed include Optometrist or Ophthalmologist, Internal Medicine, Family Physicians with extensive experience in Pediatrics, Gynecology and Cardiology, Nurses, Physical Therapists, and Pharmacists or Pharmacy Assistants. Doctors are suggested to arrange for their own translators if possible, however if they’re unable to, the church can arrange for this with advance notice.
Please note that we currently do not have the capability to perform surgeries, and the services that are provided are of a consultative nature along with dispensing medication.
Community Services
Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.
James 1:27
Along with the services offered through the church, we also work along various organizations in the community to provide aid where needed. Currently we regularly visit and serve at a senior’s home, an orphanage, and a home for the disabled. Groups that are looking to come and serve are encouraged to plan a spiritual program for each of these places. Groups often teach bible stories, put on skits, sing songs, and play games with them.
I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.
Matthew 25:35-36
Accomodation
The compound includes the church building, the social hall, and dorm rooms for guests. Rooms consist primarily of bunk beds with some single beds available. Each room comes with its own bathroom, and is fully equipped with linens, pillows, towels, and basic toiletries. Laundry facilities are available on site. WiFi is also available on site but we encourage you to take this time to pray and serve. Although we do our best to accommodate individual needs for room requests, it may not always be possible.
Coming to serve is based on availability at the church, as there is a maximum capacity of 20 people, including servants and clergy. Minors are advised to travel with their parents or a guardian that has a written statement stating they are responsible for them. Individuals and families that are interested in serving are expected to stay at the church and not off-site. Visitors who are staying off-site, are more than welcome to join us for our liturgical services. We pray Vespers on Saturday nights at 7:00pm and Liturgies on Sunday mornings at 8:30am.
If you have more questions, please check out the FAQ page and contact us if you need any further help.
When you are ready to serve, please fill out the registeration form below. Once registered, you can find your service package at the Visitor Portal.