Ocala, Florida: A Journey of Growth, Service, and Kindness

Our journey to Ocala, Florida, began with an unexpected connection—one that would lead us into the heart of a community where service and kindness are a way of life. We were invited by Pastor Rocky Shrable to speak and present to his congregation and others in Ocala. Recently, Pastor Rocky had traveled to Israel on a solidarity mission with members of his church. During their visit to the Knesset, their tour guide was none other than Adi’s father, Joel Rabinowitz.

Choosing to visit Ocala firsthand was part of our Bedein – Agents of Hope mission, which focuses on reaching out to and spending time with remote Jewish and Christian communities that are not centrally located. While much pro-Israel activism and engagement occur in major metropolitan areas like Miami or Boca Raton, we believe it is equally important to connect with communities in Central, North, and West Florida, ensuring that those outside the major hubs also feel seen, supported, and engaged.

Presentation in a Cowboy Church, Ocala.

From the moment we arrived in Ocala, we were met with open arms. This city, just an hour north of Orlando, is one of the fastest-growing in the United States, with nearly 250 families moving in each week. But beyond the numbers, what makes Ocala remarkable is the deep-rooted spirit of giving, resilience, and faith that holds the community together.

A Story of Redemption: Mayor Ben Marciano

One of the most powerful encounters of our visit was meeting Mayor Ben Marciano, a leader whose life story is a testament to second chances and unwavering determination. Once struggling with addiction and homelessness, he found himself at rock bottom—until faith and the kindness of others helped him turn his life around.

Marciano’s past, rather than defining him, became the foundation for his mission: to lift others up. He built a successful chain of health clubs in Ocala and, alongside his wife and their three children, opened their home to nearly 200 foster children over the past two years. His belief in giving people a second chance extends beyond his home—he actively hires individuals with difficult pasts, proving that redemption is possible for anyone willing to fight for it.

His journey is deeply inspiring, and it’s clear why Ocala’s residents love and admire their mayor. He leads by example, showing that service and resilience are the true pillars of a strong community.

Wings of Faith: Feeding the Body and Soul

If there’s one place in Ocala where giving back is a way of life, it’s Wings of Faith Fellowship, led by Pastor Rocky. This faith-driven mission runs one of the most extensive food distribution networks in the state, ensuring that struggling families never go hungry.

With over 100 volunteers and nearly half the congregation actively involved in charity work, Wings of Faith embodies the spirit of generosity. Their thrift store at 3330 SE 58th Avenue, Ocala, FL, not only provides affordable goods but also funds mission projects that change lives across the state.

We were moved by the selflessness of this congregation—people who dedicate their time and energy to lifting up those in need. It was a humbling reminder that kindness and service are at the heart of true faith.

A Home by the Lake: The Kindness of Trish and Ed Farrell

No journey is complete without the people who make it special. In Ocala, that was Trish and Ed Farrell, who welcomed us into their beautiful lakeside home on Lake Ocklawaha as if we were family.

Their warmth was immediate and genuine—not just in how they opened their doors but in the way they live their lives, guided by compassion. Raising their family with the values of service and kindness, they exemplify the heart of Ocala. Sitting on their porch, overlooking the water, sharing stories and laughter, we felt at home.

Discovering Ocala’s Natural Beauty

Beyond its incredible people, Ocala is a treasure trove of natural beauty and heritage. Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” it attracts equestrian enthusiasts from around the globe. At the heart of this legacy stands the World Equestrian Center, a world-class facility where the elegance, discipline, and connection between humans and horses are celebrated year-round.

It was here that we had the pleasure of meeting Merry Huebing, a longtime Ocala resident with a profound love for horses and a lifetime of dedication to the equestrian world. Merry has called Ocala home for over 44 years, and for more than three decades, she and her late husband, Merriwell dedicated themselves to raising full-race Arabian horses. Their passion wasn’t just about the show—though they certainly excelled in horse show presentations—it was about creating a bond between horses and people.

They specialized in breeding Arabian horses with local U.S. breeds, developing a lineage known for being family-oriented and pet-friendly. These weren’t just competition horses—they were gentle, intelligent, and raised to be companions, ideal for riding and family life. Merry’s dedication to the well-being and character of each horse they raised is a reflection of the deeper values that define Ocala’s equestrian scene.

Later in life, Merry and her husband transitioned away from horse breeding and began raising llamas—a new chapter that continued their connection to the land and animals. Surprisingly, these llamas still serve an important role today: acting as guardians of the farm, protecting livestock from coyotes and other predators. It’s a practical and heartwarming example of how their love for animals evolved while still preserving the spirit of stewardship and care.

It’s through passionate, committed individuals like Merry that Ocala evolved from a regional hub into a national center for horse lovers, eventually earning its title as the Horse Capital of the World. Her stories added a rich, personal layer to our understanding of this city’s equestrian soul—one rooted not only in excellence and competition, but also in love, resilience, and lifelong connection.

A Sunset Walk Through Ocala Wetland Recharge Park

On Mayor Marciano’s recommendation, we made our way to the Ocala Wetland Recharge Park just before sunset. This hidden gem is a haven for wildlife and a crucial project for water conservation.

From the moment we arrived, nature welcomed us. The first thing we spotted? An alligator, lounging at the water’s edge. As we walked along the elevated wooden boardwalks, the sky turned golden, filtering through the Spanish moss hanging from ancient trees.

The park is home to an astonishing 170+ species of birds, and we were lucky enough to see Black-bellied Whistling Ducks, Great Blue Herons, and Red-winged Blackbirds. The peaceful setting made it easy to forget that we were just minutes from a bustling, growing city.

Ocala’s commitment to preserving nature while embracing growth is a delicate balance, but this park is proof that both can coexist beautifully.

Kayaking at Rainbow Springs: A Magical Manatee Encounter

Our Ocala adventure wouldn’t have been complete without a clear-kayak tour on the Rainbow River. Partnering with Get Up And Go Kayaking, we embarked on a mesmerizing journey over waters so clear, it felt like we were floating on air.

Then, the magic happened—a manatee surfaced beside us, releasing a soft exhale before disappearing beneath the water. For the next hour, we watched these gentle giants glide effortlessly, their massive forms visible through the transparent kayaks.

It was a humbling experience, witnessing these creatures in their natural sanctuary. Our guide shared insights about their behavior, diet, and conservation efforts, making the experience even more meaningful.

A City Built on Kindness

As we left Ocala, we carried with us not just memories of breathtaking landscapes but stories of resilience, faith, and generosity. From the inspiring leadership of Mayor Ben Marciano, to the unwavering mission of Pastor Rocky and Wings of Faith, and the open-hearted kindness of Trish and Ed Farrell, Ocala left an indelible mark on our hearts.

This is a city where success is measured not just by growth, but by the strength of its people. Where service and kindness aren’t just words—they’re a way of life.

And for that, Ocala is truly unforgettable.