Since its launch, Catholics around the diocese have embraced the challenge with heart and purpose- carrying Christ’s love not only within our five counties but also across international borders.  

This past March, a group of parishioners from Nativity Catholic Church in Brandon embarked on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic with an organization called Partners with La Victoria. Founded by Nativity in 1974, the nonprofit regularly organizes mission trips to La Victoria, a small community in the Dominican Republic. Through these mission trips, they provide ongoing support to local families, such as the distribution of food and other material necessities, construction and renovation projects, and community development.  

“As someone born and raised in the Philippines, going on the mission trip was a reminder of the daily struggles those in other countries face,” said Adrian Opinion, an adult leader in Nativity’s Life Teen program.

During their time in La Victoria, Opinion’s group participated in several corporal works of mercy such as feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and giving drink to the thirsty.Their efforts included visiting schools to feed children, cleaning facilities, building meaningful relationships with students, and even gifting shoes. The group also distributed groceries to impoverished families in the area. Each act positively impacted the community.  

“Whether it’s through mission trips or helping out your local community, you’ll soon find out that even the small acts of mercy will make a difference in the lives of others,” said Opinion. “Heaven seems far away, but every little act of mercy we offer up to God brings us closer to Him. That’s why I encourage everyone to participate in the 1,000,000 Acts of Mercy Challenge!”  

You have an opportunity to help spread hope by joining the 1,000,000 Acts of Mercy Challenge. It's as easy as logging your acts of mercy– big or small– at Mercy2025.org. Since February, nearly 700,000 acts of mercy have been logged.  

Looking for inspiration? Visit Mercy2025.org to explore the spiritual and corporal works of mercy, along with creative ideas for ways to participate in the works of mercy on your own or with others. For updates on the 1,000,000 Acts of Mercy Challenge, follow the Diocese of Saint Petersburg on Facebook (DioStPete) and Instagram (@DioStPete).  

To learn more about Partners with La Victoria and their mission, visit www.pwlv.org.