Mission of Friendship
Misión de Amistad or Mission of Friendship began in 1971 when Archbishop Manuiel Ruiz Castro, Archbishop of Yucatán, and Bishop Alfred M. Watson, Bishop of Erie, established a cooperative relationship between the two dioceses.
Mission of Friendship, centered in Christ, provides opportunities for the people of the Archdiocese of Yucatán and the people of the Diocese of Erie and the broader United States to grow in faith and love through friendship and service while sharing their gifts, talents and cultures with the hope of alleviating poverty and bring about justice.
Mission of Friendship programs:
Sister Parish Programs
This program partners parishes in the Archdiocese of Yucatan with parishes in the Diocese of Erie encouraging an exchange of faith and culture.
Nueva Vida - Child Development Center
Day program for kindergarten and elementary school age girls and boys in the south of Merida that provides academic tutoring, homework support, nutritious meals and enrichment classes.
Amigos Family Sponsorship Program
Sponsors are linked with a child or famly from Yucatan. Their monthly support helps to provide education, food and clothing.
Salud Vital Social Service Program
Promote physical and mental health withing the community of the South of Mérida through networks of volunteer professionals. The MOF offers free consultations, and services, including psychological therapy, eye exams, educational workshops for parents/guardians, and specialized training in breastfeeding.
Visiting Groups
The Mission of Friendship affords adult and college groups the opportunity to experience another culture within the context of faith and service.
Office of Diocesan and International Missions
Indira Suarez, Director
Phone: (814) 824-1231