Coming Together in Gratitude Pastor Mateo Mamea opened the service with a call to give thanks, followed by an opening prayer from Rev. Michael Plekon. Their welcome set the tone for a meaningful evening of reflection. Readings, Music, and Reflections Scripture readings were shared by Cmdr. Dale Jones and Rev. David Madsen, with additional participation from Ellen Fitzpatrick and Diane Johnson . Pastor Mamea also offered the homily. Music added warmth to the service. Jennie and Gary Edwards performed “For the Beauty of the Earth,” and the combined choir, directed by Jinny Perrin , contributed a beautifully sung anthem. Voices From the Community Martha Deichler spoke about the Borrego Ministers Association, sharing its purpose, how it supports residents in crisis, and why its work is an important part of community life. Supporting Local Needs An offering was collected to support the year-round work of the Borrego Ministers Association, which provides emergency assistance for residents across Borrego Springs. A Shared Moment of Community The service ended with a final hymn and blessing, bringing together residents, visitors, and local faith leaders in a shared expression of gratitude and community spirit.

St. Barnabas Episcopal Church & Borrego Ministers Association When desert temperatures soar in Borrego Springs, heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous. Recognizing this urgent need, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church , in cooperation with the Borrego Ministers Association , launched the Emergency Air-Conditioning Program to protect vulnerable residents from life-threatening heat. 

WHO WE ARE BCC caregivers assist with housekeeping and personal care, and receive training in First Aid, CPR, Safety and common medical conditions. Currently, 15 caregivers are available to serve our community. THE PROBLEM Borrego Springs has a large percentage of older adults who are no longer able to independently manage housekeeping and personal care, and is also home to families with young adults who are seeking career opportunities. THE SOLUTION For Borregans who need a little extra help to live independently at home, and our young families that need job opportunities, the Borrego Caregiver Corps (BCC) is a Win/Win THE BENEFITS ● Keep our community pillars here in Borrego for life: With support, no one needs to relocate to assisted living facilities far from Borrego Springs ● Healthcare: Building a workforce prepared to do the jobs needed to provide services here in Borrego Springs ● Resource expansion: Caregivers can continue the Healthcare Career Ladder using local Community College programs to become Certified Nursing/Medical assistant; LVN or RN  ● Collaboration potential: Primary Care practices (DAP, STAT); Borrego USD; Borrego Ministers Association; Borrego Springs Community Resource Center; Rotary; Soroptimists WHAT'S NEXT Picture of BCC annual meeting on 10/24/2025 with Kit Fox Outfitters providing training through the generous support of the Borrego Village Association. Exploring opportunities to develop Adult Day Programs and Residential facilities in collaboration with Borrego property owners as the healthcare workforce expands to support growth. Pictures of BCC annual meeting on 10/24/2025 with Kit Fox Outfitters providing training through a program organized through the Borrego Village Association thanks to a generous grant from the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund

Join IHSS Caregiver Talent Tuesday on Zoom, held the first Tuesday of every month at 10 AM. Get answers, explore opportunities, and start your caregiving career.

BMA Late Summer/Early Fall Newsletter Father Michael Plekon, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, president, BMA