| MISSION EL SALVADOR 458 MAPLE STREET LIVERMORE, CA 94550 |
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| The Mission El Salvador started, in December 2005, when Father Ismael Gutierrez learned that in El Salvador an entire neighborhood near a creek was demolished because of heavy rains. Since then families have been living in Shanties built of cloth, plastic and corrugated roofing. Father Ismael approached the Hispanic community with a proposal to help this unfortunate families. A committee was formed by several Salvadoran families and promptly started several fundraisers. These activities were selling traditional Salvadoran food (pupusas) and an elegant Italian dinner. With these events the committee raised $15,000. The entire Saint Michael Community heard about the project and donated during mass collections and individual contributions with another $15,000. Father Ismael personally contacted Bishop Jose Adolfo Mojica the Bishop of the Diocese of Sonsonate, El Salvador, and express to him his interest of helping his community. Father Ismael then traveled to El Salvador to meet with the Bishop and at that time he introduced Father Ricardo Romero, the pastor of the community of Santa Catarina de Masahuat which would be the beneficiary. The parcel of land was purchased closed to town and next to a soccer field and the school. When Saint Michael community heard that Father Ismael come back from El Salvador, they were eager to hear details about the community and asked how they could continue to get involved, many parishoners pledged to give one lump sum, monthly or several donations spread out though the year to accomplish the goals of the mission. As appreciation of gratitude the Salvadoran of community Santa Catarina de Masahuat decided to name their new community after our Parish of Saint Michael. Unfortunately, Father Ricardo Romero passed away on September 25, 2006. Bishop Mojica then appointed Father Samuel Menjivar, the new parish priest at Santa Catarina de Masahuat to take over Father Romero’s responsibilities in this project.. Under the leadership of Father Samuel, seven houses have already been awarded. Father Samuel is very active in his new community. |
Monsignor
Adolfo Mojica and |
Community children by the welcoming sign into their new neighborhood |
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Old property owner, the Diocese lawyer and Bishop Mojica signing the property documents |
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Father Ricardo Romero |
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Father Samuel Menjivar |
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