Fr. Michael Plekon • April 30, 2024

Bishop Susan Brown Snook Celebrates Fr. David Madsen's Ministry at St. Barnabas, Borrego Springs

Share

Bishop Susan Brown Snook celebrates the new ministry of Fr David and Naomi Madsen at St. Barnabas

On February 25, 2024, Bishop Susan Brown Snook of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego made her annual visitation to St. Barnabas parish. She preached and presided at the Eucharist and in the course of the service celebrated the new ministry of Fr. David Madsen as rector of the parish. Fr. David and Naomi began service at St. Barnabas on May 1, 2023. Fr. David previously was rector of St. Alban Episcopal Church in El Cajon. There he inaugurated Welcome Ministry, an outreach to migrants from the Middle East living in El Cajon. This ministry was ecumenical, involving the Presbyterian, Lutheran and other churches there. It provided food, housing support, employment counseling and regular Arabic-English liturgies. Naomi previous with the social ministries of the United Methodist Church. Since arriving in Borrego, Fr David and Naomi have been intensely dedicated to community service. They have trucked firewood to the asylum seekers' encampments in Jacumba. He has continued, with her, to be involved with the El Cajon Welcome Ministry, while at the same time joining the Borrego Ministers Association, Rotary, the St. Barnabas food bank, among other activities supporting those in need in greater Borrego. Both the congregation community of St. Barnabas and the larger Borrego community welcome the wonderful service of Fr. David and Naomi Madsen and wish them many years of joy and good work here.


---

The Rev. Michael Plekon, PhD
Professor Emeritus: Sociology, Religion & Culture The City University of New York - Baruch College




Learn More About Borrego Springs

June 29, 2025
Camp Firelight returned to Borrego Methodist Church after 14 years, offering Bible stories, science, crafts, and fun for local children of all ages.
June 25, 2025
BVEF Makes Borrego Stronger, One Gift at a Time The Borrego Ministers’ Association (BMA) has received a generous $10,000 grant from the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund (BVEF) , a nonprofit dedicated to improving the health, well-being, and sustainability of the Borrego Valley and its residents. This grant will directly fund the BMA’s food coupon program, a practical support system for individuals and families facing hardship in Borrego Springs. These coupons are redeemable at local grocery stores—The Center Market and The Desert Pantry—ensuring that aid helps residents meet basic needs while supporting small, local businesses. BMA: Local Aid with Deep Roots The Borrego Ministers Association is a nonprofit coalition of local faith leaders and community members that quietly provides year-round assistance to residents facing crises. Their programs include emergency support for rent, utilities, transportation, food assistance, coordination of local charitable resources, and interfaith services that strengthen community connections. "In the hot summer, families really scramble to make ends meet, especially when they are let go from jobs in hospitality which slows down considerably," said BMA Chair Michael Plekon. " The BMA often can help them rearrange dollars so that rent and utilities don't put food and medication in jeopardy. Food coupons and the food bank can go a long way in helping." The BMA is often called upon when no other local option exists—ensuring that help reaches those in need swiftly, respectfully, and without red tape. A Partnership for Community Well-being The Borrego Valley Endowment Fund’s mission is closely aligned with the BMA’s work. Originally focused on ensuring quality healthcare in Borrego Springs, BVEF now also supports initiatives in community development and environmental protection. Their funding priorities include senior care, youth opportunities, skills training, housing, and food security—essential areas for a rural, unincorporated community like Borrego Springs. This grant for food support is part of BVEF’s larger commitment to promoting practical, local solutions that improve residents' quality of life. Gratitude for Local Impact The BMA extends its sincere thanks to the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund for this generous grant. Special appreciation goes to BVEF's Jim Dion and his role in facilitating the partnership. “We’re grateful for this show of support from BVEF,” said a BMA representative. “It helps us meet immediate needs while reinforcing the long-term strength and dignity of our community.” About the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund The BVEF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Borrego Springs. The Fund supports health, well-being, and environmental stewardship throughout the Borrego Valley. Donations can be designated for specific needs or applied where most needed. To learn more, visit www.bvefund.org, email give@bvefund.org, or visit their office at 587 Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 128.
Borrego Springs Grief and Loss Support Group
June 14, 2025
Join the Borrego Springs Grief and Loss Support Group at The Mall Resource Center. Open to all, including locals and visitors, seeking comfort and understanding.
June 12, 2025
On June 12, the Borrego Ministers Association (BMA) received a $5,000 donation from Rams Hill to support food, housing, and emergency aid for Borrego Springs residents.
May 27, 2025
Borrego Springs honors fallen service members with a Memorial Day ceremony at Christmas Circle, followed by lunch at American Legion Post 853.
May 22, 2025
Weekly $25 food coupons are available every Wednesday in Borrego Springs through the Borrego Ministers Association at the Community Resource Center.
Show More

Share This Post