The new mission is an important ingredient in the lives of the 250,000 diverse Hispanic people living in the area and has the potential for phenomenal growth. Rev. Mora’s strategy of starting a new congregation by first establishing small faith communities that meet in people’s homes is a strategy which seems to work best among immigrant groups.

The Tarpon Springs Vietnamese United Methodist Mission was officially welcomed Oct. 3 in a joint service with First United Methodist Church, Tarpon Springs, at its 11 a.m. service.

The mission began under the leadership of Lai Minh Tu ("Rev. Sabrina") who is a social worker helping Vietnamese immigrants in the Tampa Bay Area. She recognized the spiritual needs of the newly-arrived Vietnamese and began holding services for them. At "Rev. Sabrina’s" request and Rev. Lange’s invitation the group uses First Church’s chapel for worship services. Approximately 100 people participate in this congregation, and their numbers are growing.

"Rev. Sabrina," Rev. Lange, St. Petersburg District Superintendent Rev. Dr. Kevin James and I then began discussing the process of them becoming part of the United Methodist Church. First United Methodist Church has agreed to be the "Mother Church." Office and worship space will be made available, and the congregation will help cover their expenses through their offerings and according to their means. Dr. James will see that "Rev. Sabrina" receives candidacy studies and guidance by the District Board of Ordained Ministry.

The Florida Conference cabinet and Conference Committee on New Church Development and Church Redevelopment gave their required approval at their respective Oct. 4 meetings.