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The Oasis Católico Santa Rafaela was founded by the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, an international order of Sisters, in September 2002. Since then, the Sisters have been serving the families of the community with the help of many volunteers, various partnerships and generous donations.
The Sisters (namely, Sr. Margarita Martin, acj, Sr. Marietta Jansen, acj, and Sr. Angela Cordero, acj) provide the much-needed ministries to the people of the Pinewood Estates North community and surroundings.
"The mission of the Oasis Católico is to be a place where English and Spanish speaking cultures can connect and enrich one another. Nestled among the trailers of Pinewood Estates North, the Oasis is a haven of calm amidst the confusion faced by many of the community residents."
Today, Oasis provides after-school tutoring for children from 3 years old Pre-K through third grade, Monday through Thursday from 2:30 pm - 5:00 pm during the Fall and Spring semesters only. Tutors are asked to commit to one day a week for the semester.
Oasis also provides many other services to the broader Latino community. Besides providing a safe haven for individuals and families and aside from after-school tutoring, Oasis offers:- Monthly Mass celebration (when there is an available priest)
- Preparation to receive the Sacraments
- Community Building Programs
- Special Celebrations and Fiestas
- Distribution of food, diapers and used items such as clothing, kitchen wares, etc. (as available)
All these and more are part of Oasis' ministry of reparation; they build community solidarity, celebrate life and promote the physical, emotional and spiritual well-being and wholeness of all who pass through.
To assist with tutoring at the Oasis, visit www.oasistutors.org or Facebook group "Oasis Tutors" or contact Sr. Margarita at 706.714.6624 or email her at oasistutors@gmail.com.