Lives were changed as 47 formerly homeless men graduated on March 15 from the Miami Rescue Mission (MRM) | Broward Outreach Centers (BOC) in a cap and gown ceremony. The graduation marked a milestone in what has become a miraculous redemption for formerly homeless individuals who have worked successfully to change and transform their lives from homelessness and dependency to having the tools to be empowered for a successful life. Many now have jobs and safe and affordable housing and most of all restored relationships or new relationships that will lead them to future successes.
The theme “Making the Change” made a statement that many had formerly begged for change but now are leading a transformed changed life. These brave men have been through truly challenging experiences and despite this, have transformed—renewed and ready to take on the world.
The ceremony opened in prayer by Metro Life Church’s Pastor Richard Perez, congratulating each for their walk in faith and belief in changing for themselves, God and their families.
Testimonies from graduates
Following Pastor Perez were several testimonies from formerly homeless graduates who chronicled different struggles—drug and alcohol abuse, economic strife, lack of education and family support—each fighting to put their lives back on track with the help of MRM/BOC, a non-profit organization aimed at providing supportive services to over 1,000 individuals daily through food, shelter, clothing, education, job training, spiritual counseling, health services, youth programs, housing and long-term rehabilitation.
Commencement address
A Commencement address was given to the graduates by the Honorable Esteban L. Bovo Jr., District 13 Miami-Dade County Commissioner. Following his address, he presented a proclamation from Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners and Miami-Dade Mayor honoring the Miami Rescue Mission for this remarkable day of celebrating their contribution to Miami-Dade County.
Entertainment
Entertainment was provided by Mas Que Vencedores Dancers, a ministry composed of men of all ages who worship and praise the Lord through sacred hip-hop and mime, sharing their stories through dance. This was followed by Angeline Hernandez singing “Do it again” which could be heard from all parts of the building.
This year’s Challenge Speech was given by Pastor Faron Law of New Harvest Missionary Baptist Church. Guided by scripture, Pastor Law challenged each of the graduates that they must continue their journey of transformation. MRM Education Center Supervisor, Kenneth Palonsky, called each graduates name as they walked the stage to receive their diploma.
The Board of Directors of the Miami Rescue Mission | Broward Outreach Centers helped to hand out diplomas to all the graduates. Nearly 50 men walked their commencement walk having fought to overcome their life controlling issues that had brought them to homelessness. Now their journey begins with a new found empowerment. After the ceremony guests were invited to join us for refreshments and musical entertainment. Refreshments and food were prepared by chefs Alli and Bel, from Back Alli’s Catering. Our other entertainment after the ceremony was the T-Wave HD ‘South Florida’s Caribbean Party Band’.
