Christ Church Outreach News: February 26, 2026

Learn What It’s Like to Volunteer at a Somos Amigos Clinic When Founder Frank Brightwell Visits Christ Church this Sunday, March 1

We’ll have several opportunities this Sunday to learn about life in the Dominican Republic and how Christ Church supports Somos Amigos Medical Missions in its work. Founder and Executive Director Frank Brightwell will deliver the sermon during the 8 a.m. and 10:30 worship services and conduct Sunday Circle this Sunday, March 1.

His visit to Christ Church has become an annual tradition, in part because of the depth of our support. It includes dedicated volunteers, monetary and spiritual support, and life-changing efforts for patients Euclides, Emilio, and Franci (in photos).

You can read about Euclides’ diagnosis of colon cancer in the Outreach Blog of May 29, 2025 and about his recovery in the Outreach Blog of Jan. 29, 2026. You’ll recall that Emilio required high-tech hearing aids and Franci needed heart surgery, as described in the Outreach Blog of Nov. 14, 2024 and the Outreach Blog of Oct. 27, 2022. Thanks to all whose prayers lifted up these patients over the years.

Regular volunteers are Dione and Jim Mahoney, and Dione’s sister and brother-in-law, Desiree and Jorge Arce. All are expected to attend the 10:30 a.m. service on Sunday; catch them afterward to ask about their experiences. Other parishioners who have volunteered include Outreach member Shahra Toth and physicians Ellen Boudreau and Preethi Jackson.

Somos Amigos holds quarterly clinics. Future dates are April 11-18, July 11-18, and Oct. 10-17, 2026. Go here for volunteer information.

In an interview for a Somos Amigos newsletter during the January 2026 clinic, the Mahoneys described their motivation:

“For us, Somos Amigos represents the belief that even if we cannot do everything, we can always do something—and that something truly does make a difference. Through many years of returning to the clinic, serving especially in the pharmacy and working closely with the wonderful doctors and staff, we have witnessed the dedication behind the much-needed medical and dental care provided to the rural community of El Naranjito.

“What makes this experience so meaningful is that it is truly a two-way street. The warmth and openness of the people who live here leave a lasting impression, and together—patients and volunteers—we experience healing, learning, joy, resilience, faith, and gratitude. Each visit is deeply fulfilling and enriching, reminding us that serving others also transforms and strengthens us in ways we never expect.”

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DreamBuilders Annual Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction is Coming Up VERY Soon! - March 14

Come enjoy a spaghetti dinner and bid on a wide and wonderful variety of items and activities, all in support of DreamBuilders. This is our largest fundraising event of the year, with proceeds helping fund our building projects. We will need lots of help to make this event a success, and we are looking for donations for the auction, too.

The event takes place on Saturday, March 14, from 5 - 8 p.m. at Temple Isaiah - 12200 Scaggsville Rd, Fulton, MD 20759.

Here are a few words from DreamBuilders:

"After building another 3 houses in the summer of 2025, we are excited to do it once more in 2026, and we need YOU! The work we are able to accomplish is directly tied to our number of missioners and our available funds. The money we raise at the spaghetti dinner enables our partner organizations to acquire the materials that make these blitz builds possible. The more money we raise, the more houses we can build, and the more families will have a place to call home. Whatever you are able to give, come join in this wonderful event and meet all the wonderful people who are part of the DreamBuilders community!"

Some suggested things you could provide:

• Sports Tickets

• Theater/special event tickets

• Vacation Getaways

• Artwork

• Memorabilia

• Themed baskets

• Jewelry

• Fine wine

• Children’s items

• Pet sitting services

• Odd job services

• Boat/Kayak trips

• Gift certificates to local restaurants

• Ask your favorite businesses to donate to this event and mission!

If you have an item you would like to donate, please speak with Cathy Gold at church on Sunday or email info@christchurchcolumbia.org, and we will put you in touch with her. Thanks!

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Please Bring Diapers, Non-Perishables for CCC/FISH, And Consider Volunteering from Home to Take Phone Calls From Neighbors in Need

FISH and Columbia Community Care (CCC) partnered last year and merged their pantries. CCC continues to hand out food at three sites on Saturday mornings and by home delivery to Howard County residents. For information, go online to Get Help. Find CCC updates on its Facebook page.

FISH continues to pick up donated goods from Christ Church and others. Please put non-perishable food and personal care products in the altar basket or in a bin just inside the Parish Hall. Look for a combo label “FISH/CCC”. Please bring baby wipes and diapers, especially large sizes.

FISH will continue to provide telephone support to Howard County residents, offering guidance and financial assistance, because the personal touch is very important when people are in crisis. For information, ask parishioner and FISH treasurer Andy DeLong (above photo) or email him at andydelong.fish@gmail.com.

You could be the one to lend a helping hand by lending an ear! As a phone volunteer, you can help from your home by giving just one day a month to assist those who could benefit from financial assistance from FISH. Training is provided. Thank you always for your support.

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Kenya Connect 5k Run - March 28

Kenya Connect, an outreach partner of St. John's in Ellicott City, is holding its 12th annual 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, March 28th, at St. John's. The 5K builds community while supporting the work of Kenya Connect to provide children with options and new pathways in rural Kenya. 

We welcome individual participants or a team from Christ Church. We will have post-race goodies, including a Kenyan crafts market with items made by women and men in our village. We also provide hand-carved medallions from Wamunyu to the top three women and men in all age categories. 

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In general, if you have suggestions about ways to help the community, if you want to get involved, or if you need assistance, please email Christ Church Outreach at outreach@christchurchcolumbia.org. Your help is greatly welcomed and appreciated. Thank you.