Founded in 1947 St Mary’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church stands proudly in Ramona California. This isn’t just any church. It’s a vibrant hub of community nestled amidst the local mountains outside San Diego. Imagine a place where horse ranches and egg farms coexist. That’s Ramona. It’s a blend of suburban quiet and rural charm.
St Mary’s is more than just a place of worship. It’s a family-sized church. It’s a welcoming space for everyone. The church embraces people of all backgrounds. Regardless of your ethnicity political views abilities faith or housing status you are welcome here. Even those working on sobriety or in recovery find a home. It’s a church that truly lives its inclusive values. St Mary’s is explicitly LGBTQIA2S+ affirming.
But St Mary’s isn’t just about Sunday services. Every Friday afternoon from 2 pm to 4 pm the church organizes an incredible outreach program. Volunteers diligently prepare sack lunches for asylum seekers. These lunches are then delivered to the airport. This is where Border Patrol often leaves people without any resources. The church offers a lifeline. A small act of kindness makes a big difference.
Beyond food packing St Mary’s also hosts Sacred Ground. This is a dialogue series focused on racial healing. Small groups explore America’s history of race racism and whiteness. They use a powerful online curriculum. It includes documentary films and readings. The series examines Indigenous Black Latino and Asian/Pacific American histories. These are intertwined with European American histories. The goal is to promote understanding and reconciliation. It’s an example of the church’s dedication to social justice.
The Ramona Kiwanis Club recently showed its support. They donated $520 to St Mary’s Outreach Ministry. This highlights the community’s commitment to the church’s work. St Mary’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church is so much more than a building. It’s a beacon of hope a place of community a testament to the power of faith and action. It’s a church deeply woven into the fabric of Ramona. It’s a place where you’ll feel truly welcome. And it’s a place that’s making a real difference in people’s lives.