I first attended St Martin de Porres Church in 2004, soon after our first visit to the magical island of La Palma. This is more than your normal place of worship. Situated in the beautiful tranquil hills above the village of La Rosa, you almost inevitably feel more spiritual and close to God with the sensational mountain views all around.
Besides the opportunities for spiritual renewal, Reverend Jenny encourages the congregation to be mutually supportive and to all actively contribute and participate in the Services. There is a real family inclusive ethos and atmosphere. Nobody is ever marginalised and even if people are struggling with their faith or beliefs, they are welcomed into the ‘family’ of the Church.
The Church is a real force for good on the island, supporting and caring for those in their hour of need. We are so pleased to be part of this family and after the Service, people don’t just disappear and go their separate ways; everybody adjourns to a local coffee shop for a “chin wag” and some social bonding. So the Church is both spiritually elevating and socially uplifting.
Both Kathryn and myself always ensure we are in La Palma for the Christmas Carol Service and the Christmas dinner party that follows. It is a special place for us and we were delighted that our daughter, Dominique, and her husband, Matthew, chose the Reverend Jenny to preside over the blessing of their wedding at St. Martin de Porres in October, 2012.
If you visit La Palma you must pay the Church a visit and attend a Service whether it is held at the hospital, St. Martin de Porres or the old Church (Nuestra Señora de Bonanza) in nearby El Paso.
God bless, Peter & Kathryn Shaw