Stories of Hope

Zelda Gilbert: Faith, Service, and Growing Through Leadership In this inspiring episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with Zelda Gilbert, a Hillsdale College student who has spent the past two summers serving as a Project Mexico intern. From her first introduction to the program to her recent role as a site leader, Zelda has become a beloved part of the ranch community. She shares how her background prepared her for this unique mission experience, and how her summers in Mexico have deepened her faith, strengthened her leadership skills, and given her a greater vision for service. Zelda’s story highlights the transformative impact of volunteering—not only for the families receiving homes but also for the young leaders who step forward to build them. Tune in to hear Zelda’s reflections on community, growth, and what it means to live out your faith in service to others.

In this episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with Mark Fridell, longtime supporter and board member of Project Mexico. Mark has played a key role in our homebuilding mission trips for many years, and his deep commitment to our work shines through in this heartfelt conversation. Hear how his life was transformed by serving others, what inspires him to give back, and what leadership looks like behind the scenes at Project Mexico. Whether you're a first-time volunteer or a longtime friend of the ministry, this episode offers a meaningful glimpse into the people and purpose behind our mission. 🎧 Listen now and be inspired by Mark’s story of faith, service, and hope. Would you like a shorter version for platforms like Spotify or YouTube?

Dean Pliaconis, a cherished friend and longtime supporter of Project Mexico and St. Innocent Orphanage, shares his story in this heartfelt episode. For over 25 years, Dean and his shipping company have generously contributed to our mission, helping us thrive. Discover how his Orthodox faith and experiences in mission work have shaped both his personal and professional life. Tune in for inspiring stories, reflections on service, and a glimpse into the heart of someone who’s made a lasting impact on our community.

Join us as we sit down to chat with Julia Paresenios, a caregiver at the Casa Cuna and OCMC Missionary.

Today we hear from Canon Hansen, a long-term staff member, counselor and all-around amazing addition to the program! He talks about his introduction to Mexico, his relationships with his faith, and the ranch. We chat about personalities and world-views and how these factors affect his work life and community. Enjoy hearing the positive and inspiring words of Canon, and get a glimpse into the world of Project Mexico beyond the summer programs.

Anna Karcher has old ties to Project Mexico through her mother, who worked here when she was in her 20s. As a second-generation staff member, she shares with us what it's like to transition from the United States to Mexico and her plans while working with us. Anna helps relay the experience of learning a second language, living cross-culturally, and developing faith away from your family. Tune in to meet Anna!

This episode of "Stories of Hope" is a unique one. Guest and long-term staff member Aaron Bauer was an intern in 2013, and has returned this year. He talks through the ways that he has changed, plans for the future and his personal faith. With hearing his thoughts, you can get a more personal reflection of Aaron, as well as the ranch.

In this episode, we dive into the Divine Liturgy with Project Mexico's resident priest, Father Demetrios Swanson. Often referred to as the "mystery of mysteries," it's more than just a ritual—it's a vibrant, living encounter between God and His people, and it sits at the very heart of the Orthodox Christian faith. Join us as we explore the depth and meaning behind this sacred tradition.

I spoke with Gabe Braskett, a student in Boston attending Hellenic College Holy Cross and a returning summer intern for the Project Mexico Ministry. He talks about how his first summer in 2023 helped shape his path to Boston and the growth he experienced during summers in Mexico. Through anecdotes and self-reflection, Gabe shares his story as an intern, living in faith, and working in ministry.

In this powerful episode of Stories of Hope, Father Nicholas, Executive Director of Project Mexico, shares his firsthand experience of being a seminarian at St. Vladimir’s Seminary in New York City during the tragic events of September 11, 2001.Recently invited back to speak at the Orthodox Shrine at Ground Zero, Father Nicholas reflects on how 9/11 shaped his spiritual life, priesthood, and understanding of what it means to serve in times of crisis. His story offers a moving glimpse into the mission field that emerged in the aftermath—and the enduring need for prayer, presence, and pastoral care in the face of suffering.

In this inspiring episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with Lucy Cuneo, a passionate young Orthodox Christian whose journey has taken her across the globe—and ultimately to Project Mexico. Lucy shares her personal story of faith, travel, and service, offering insight into what it's like to live abroad as a young Orthodox believer. Discover how her international experiences shaped her spiritual growth, and how her path led her to support vulnerable communities in Mexico. Her commitment, vibrant personality, and heartfelt devotion to meaningful work exemplify how stepping outside your comfort zone can open unexpected doors. Whether you're interested in Orthodox Christian missions, faith-based travel, or simply seeking uplifting stories of hope and transformation, this episode offers a powerful reminder of the impact one person can make.

Today Father Demetrios gives us more background information on the ordination process. He walks us through how the services change when there is an ordination, and what the sacrament consists of behind the altar. We also talk about the roles that priests serve in the Orthodox community and the church. Because this is a sacrament many of us can only witness, Father Demetrios offers a lovely perspective on the experience of ordination.

Our discussion resumes with the series on Sacraments as we focus on marriage. Father Demetrios Swanson walks us through the Orthodox wedding ceremony, and shares insights on the Orthodox theology of marriage. Father helps put into perspective why marriage is important, as well as talking about the different traditions. He also reads to us from a few sources that will be liked below. Marriage: The Great SacramentThe Orthodox Faith, Worship, and Life

This is the third installment of a multi-series event on the Sacraments with Project Mexico's resident priest, Father Demetrios Swanson. On today's episode, Father Demetrios helps breakdown the theology of confession. He also talks about the personal side of this sacrament and the different traditions and practices that priests and saints have adopted.

Join Fr. Demetrios Swanson as he leads us through a new series on the sacraments. We follow up our discussion of baptism with unction, anointment.

Tune in to hear Panayiota Veronis talk about her past summer as a Homebuilding Intern. She talks about the excitement of the summer in Mexico and also discusses other opportunities for youth and young adults in the Orthodox Church. You can hear how Project Mexico impacted her life, but also catch a glimpse of what it's like to be involved in summer camps and youth leadership programs.

Get to know Margarita Mavroeidi as she talks about as she talks about her work with the boys at the ranch. She also shares stories from homebuilding adventures and gives examples of the chaos, joy, hard, work and prayer that is part of everyday life in Mexico. If you would like to support her work here in Mexico, you can donate to her OCMC mission page below!https://secure.ocmc.org/site/SPageNavigator/Missionaries/Margarita%20Mavroeidi/MargaritaMavroeidiMissionary.html

Join host Julia Kasten and guest Zannos Grekos as they discuss Zanno's life before the ranch. As well as reflecting on religion in a college setting and how it translates to people's everyday lives. Zannos is a counselor at the Orphanage and is deeply involved in helping develop functional life skills for the boys at the ranch.Project Mexico's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/projectmexicoFull linktree: https://linktr.ee/projectmexicoIf you have a question you want to have answered on the show you can send them to: pmstoriesofhope@gmail.com If you would like to contact Project Mexico & St. Innocent Orphanage, you can call us at: (619)-426-4610

Join host Julia Kasten as she talks with longtime Project Mexico Religious Education Coordinator, Shannon Todd. Shannon entered the Orthodox church along with her family in 1997. She participated in various spiritual formation and fellowship programs including youth camps, CrossRoad, OCF and young adult gatherings. She also has served as an OCMC Ambassador, Sunday school teacher and choir member for many years. Throughout her life, she was encouraged to draw closer to Christ through these programs while the friends and mentors she met within the Church always helped her stay connected, confirming the Orthodox faith for her.

Greetings everyone! This week we welcome 2024's St Innocent and Holy Cross Alumni, Alejandro Zendejas along with our new Stories of Hope host, Julia Kasten! Join us as we discuss how Alejandro grew up at St Innocent and his relationship with the Orthodox faith to this ministry and his plans to give back! Project Mexico's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/projectmexicoFull linktree: https://linktr.ee/projectmexicoIf you have a question you want to have answered on the show you can send them to: pmstoriesofhope@gmail.com If you would like to contact Project Mexico & St. Innocent Orphanage, you can call us at: (619)-426-4610