At St. Helen, a century of faith keeps bearing fruit
Reflections on My Pastoral Visit, Oct. 6-8
During my pastoral visit to St. Helen Parish, I encountered something truly extraordinary: a family of faith whose love for Jesus Christ is transforming lives. I witnessed a community where faith is not merely professed on Sunday but lived every day through generosity, compassion, prayer and service.
What moved me most was discovering how this beautiful story began. In June 1919, Father Rupert Gabriel celebrated the first Catholic Mass in what is now Indian River County, gathering approximately 20 faithful in the home of Anna and Louis Schlitt. By December, they had built a small wooden church that today serves as the school library. How inspiring that children now learn where their spiritual ancestors once prayed! What began as a seed of faith has blossomed into an extraordinary harvest.
Today, St. Helen embraces 3,450 registered families, reflecting 38.2 percent growth, and celebrated 93 baptisms in 2025. More than 60 ministries bring Christ’s love into the community. Yet, behind these impressive numbers, I discovered something far more meaningful: people whose hearts are on fire with the Gospel.
I was especially inspired by the parish’s commitment to young people. Through Lupe Garcia and her team, youth gatherings, Camp Don Bosco and participation in World Youth Day, young hearts are discovering the joy of following Christ.
At St. Helen Catholic School, Principal Debbie Irish and her dedicated teachers nurture not only minds but souls. Daily Mass, confession, Eucharistic adoration and the Guardian Angel program teach children that faith becomes meaningful when expressed through love. Paige Fies extends this mission through religious education. I was also encouraged by educators’ hopes for stronger connections and transportation opportunities to John Carroll High School.
I witnessed that same commitment to family through Paul and Patti Burgener, who accompany engaged couples through Witness to Love and Communio, strengthening marriages as foundations of faith.
One of the most touching testimonies came from the outreach ministry led by Cynthia. With 30 volunteers serving more than 2,000 people monthly, this ministry offers food, medicine, diapers, rental assistance and something equally precious: hope. Alongside the Order of Malta, prison ministry and grief ministry, these faithful servants remind us that the Church is most beautiful when it becomes the hands and heart of Christ for those who suffer.
I rejoiced in the vibrant Hispanic Ministry led by Deborah Morales, whose many prayer groups, devotions and apostolates enrich the parish with beautiful expressions of faith and cultural heritage. Our diversity is not a barrier; it is a blessing that reveals the universality of God’s love.
I was equally grateful for the Council of Catholic Women, Knights of Columbus, Respect Life ministry, Legion of Mary, Secular Discalced Carmelites, prayer groups, men’s and friendship ministries, and the Shroud of Turin initiative. Each reflects a community eager to serve and grow in holiness.
At the heart of everything stands the Eucharist. I thank the extraordinary ministers of holy Communion, lectors, musicians and all who lovingly prepare our liturgical celebrations. Their devotion reminds us that everything we do begins and ends with Christ.
As I departed St. Helen, my heart overflowed with gratitude and hope. I thought of those first 20 believers whose courage planted the seeds of this flourishing parish. Their legacy challenges us today: Never underestimate what God can accomplish through a small group of people with great faith.
To the entire St. Helen family, I say: Continue dreaming, serving, welcoming and loving! Do not be afraid to open new doors, embrace new generations and bring Christ to those who need Him most.
I wish to express my special gratitude to Father Matthew DeGance, pastor, and Father Emmanuel Ajah, SDB, parochial vicar, for their generous dedication to the pastoral care of St. Helen.
The greatest chapter of St. Helen’s history is not behind us. With Christ at the center, it is still being written.
May God bless this beautiful parish and make it an ever-brighter light of faith, hope and love!
Bishop Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez, JCD
