A formerly homeless man and now World Vision pastor is humbled after his community showed their appreciation of his dedication to their neighbourhood.

 

Pastor Francisco Fernandez is from Brooklyn, New York and is a leader with his church, lesia Sol De Justicia. Fernandez also works as a leader in World Vision's Bronx Storehouse distributing meal kits to families hit by the pandemic.

The Family Emergency Kits were put together to help feed families for a week. Fernandez has been distributing them to families within his community. 

>To thank Fernandez for his dedication to his community is friends and neighbours held a parade for the pastor.

My sisters unit. Hero’s at work. Their job made a video. It goes fast but I saw my sis. Love u sis. Thank you for your service. All of u thank you. God bless.

Posted by Francisco Fernandez on Saturday, May 9, 2020

 

(Jose Yvonne Romero/Facebook)

"We want everyone to know that he is appreciated. He is loved," Glendny Rodriguez, Sol De Justicia parishioner says. "We are grateful for  all the times he has been there as a pastor, as a mentor, as a teacher."

The church gathered on May 5, sharing posters and words of encouragement for Fernandez. Vehicles drove past, honking and waving for the pastor. 

"It gives you a sense of pleasure knowing that you are touching people's lives," Fernandez says. "It was a blessing to see"