Outreach and Missions Ministry
At St. Edward’s, we believe the Church doesn’t just gather in worship, it scatters in service. The prophet Micah named it simply: do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). Our Outreach and Missions Ministry is how we live that calling together, from our own backyard in Mount Dora to orphans in Cameroon and missionaries in Thailand.
Local Outreach
We serve our neighbors here in Lake County through partnerships with local organizations and hands-on service opportunities. From food ministries to community support, we look for ways to meet real needs close to home.
Global Missions
St. Edward’s sponsors missionaries and supports mission work around the world, including work with orphans at The Good Shepherd Home in Cameroon and international missionaries in Thailand. We give so the Gospel reaches places our feet may never go.
Living the Baptismal Covenant
In our Baptismal Covenant (BCP p. 305), we commit to seek and serve Christ in all persons, and to strive for justice and peace. Our Outreach Ministry isn’t an add-on to parish life. It’s what it means to be the Church.
Our Vision
What the Lord requires us to Do (Micah 6:8)
“He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?”
The Missions supported by St. Edwards are an important part of our Christian display of what the prophet Micah called us to do in our actions, our charity, and our outreach. From international sponsorship of missionaries in Thailand and orphans at The Good Shepherd Home in Cameroon, to support for more local causes like Lake Cares Food Pantry and Fellowship of Christian Athletes of North Lake County and sponsoring youth to attend Camp Wingmann, our mission ministry does far more than just fund an important cause.
In the Missions Ministry, St. Edwards Episcopal Church is practicing the commandments we agree to follow when we are baptized.
The last three questions presented to candidates for baptism in our Baptismal Covenant (BCP p. 305), command us to act and direct with an outward focus as we live as Disciples of Christ. With God’s help, we commit to proclaiming the Good News; to Seek and Serve all persons; and to strive for Justice and Peace for all. How exciting that, through our Missions Ministry at St. Edwards Episcopal Church, we are lifting up our voices and by our acts proclaiming our Faith, and demonstrating our love and support to our fellow Christians!
As we engage in Missions and Outreach, we are inwardly strengthened as individuals and as a Community, while also having external, and even global, impact. Because the Missions Ministry is an important vehicle for our personal discipleship, St. Edwards Episcopal Church wants you to feel engaged! Have questions? Want to know more? Want to help support a mission that St. Edwards has identified for sponsorship?
Please reach out to Fr. Mark Lafler for guidance on how to learn more and get engaged!
Get the Gear
This shirt was designed for moments when faith moves from words to action.
With the simple reminder “worship. serve. love.”, this outreach tee reflects the heart of St. Edward’s Episcopal Church and the call to live our faith beyond the walls of the church. Whether serving at the food pantry, participating in community events, or showing up wherever help is needed, this shirt clearly and quietly communicates why we’re there.
Proceeds from this shirt support the youth ministry of St. Edward’s Episcopal Church.
St. Edward's Outreach T-Shirt
From $20.00
Soup for the Soul Ministry
A simple bowl of homemade soup can bring comfort in a difficult time. Our Soup for the Soul Ministry provides nourishing meals to parishioners and families facing illness, loss, or a challenging season—offering not just food, but care, compassion, and prayerful support. Each delivery includes soup, crackers, and a prayer card as a reminder that no one walks alone.
Volunteers prepare and freeze soup so it’s ready when needed, allowing us to respond quickly with love and encouragement.
Contact Evie Waterhouse, 352-406-8230, for details.
Foster Families Ministry
Help change a child’s story. Across Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Marion, and Sumter counties, approximately 1,600 children are living in crisis, and more than 3,900 children in Florida are waiting for adoption. Our ministry supports foster and adoptive families by surrounding them with care—providing meals, respite or childcare, transportation, tutoring, and essential resources.
You can make a meaningful difference. Whether through your time, talents, or donations, your support helps strengthen families and bring hope to children in need. Open your heart—and help change a life forever.
Contact Alexis Jandreau, 352-932-3292, for details.
Stories from the Field
Prayer Shawl Ministry: A Story of Calling and Care
When I transferred my membership to St. Edward’s Episcopal Church, Mount Dora, in June of 2010, I was already knitting prayer shawls—but for another...
Sacred Work on a Public School Stage
How St. Edward's is bringing blessing to Mount Dora High School's theater program Three times a year, I gather with a few dozen high school students...
Soul in the City Brings Community and Personal Transformation
Soul in the City, the summer youth mission/service trip for the Diocese of Central Florida, continues to transform local communities as well as the...
