Steve Alessi: Author of Alessi’s Angle, Pastor of Metro Life Church in Miami, Husband of World Renown Worship Leader Mary Alessi and Father of Four. 
So today, a few girls got together to answer that question with a resounding YES!! That beautiful, loving, elegant, virtuous and courageous princess, DOES exist. She exists in our friend, our leader, our example and our Pastor, Mary Alessi. And in honor of her upcoming birthday, we borrowed her Prince Charming's blog (thanks Pastor Steve) to let her know which of our favorite childhood princesses she reminds us of.
Here’s to you Pastor Mary…
Rapunzel by Jackie Roman
What princess reminds me most of Pastor Mary? Rapunzel of course! But not in the obvious ways. Yes she has beautiful blonde hair that shines and yes she has an amazing voice that is like no other but that is not what makes her most like Rapunzel. It is her courage to let God take her out of her comfort zone (her tower where she was comfortable for so many years) to a place of experiencing MORE.
For many years Pastor Mary has led choirs and praise and worship teams in church, something she is absolutely wonderful and gifted at. She often speaks about the moment leading up to her first live recording entitled "More" where she was about to step onto the stage in front of a large crowd of people and a fear came upon her. Then with the strength and courage only God can give she stepped out and into what God was calling her to do. Many times we let our insecurities and doubt stop us from accomplishing the goals and dreams God has put in our hearts and Pastor Mary could have easily stayed in her comfort zone. But she chose instead to press on past her fears and because of her obedience she has found total freedom and is now reaching and impacting more lives than she would have ever dreamed or imagined.
I am grateful to have a Godly example to get past my fears so that I too can reach and strive for MORE.
Princess Belle by Desiree Quinones
I find many similarities between Pastor Mary and Princess Belle. Pastor Mary’s loyalty for those she loves is limitless. She has had to face many giants in her life and has faced those giants with a lack of fear standing with the boldness and strength that God has given her.
But the thing I most admire about Pastor Mary is her wisdom; her ability to bring clarity to a complicated situation which is a true gift that I will forever be thankful. Where many would see the ugly in situations, Pastor Mary always sees beauty and with her Godly wisdom always paints a picture for us of redemption and hope for a brighter tomorrow.
Princess Jasmine by Mory Martinez
Being raised in an island community I found myself always dreaming of exploring more than what my small hometown had to offer. I dreamed of making a difference in a way that would impact many lives, but had no role model on how I as an independent, headstrong young lady could make it happen and not turn into something that was not glorifying to God. And then I met Pastor Mary. Just like Princess Jasmine whose spirited nature and spunk helped her break past worldly expectations for her future, Pastor Mary has chosen the better thing…using her gift and unconditional love for God to worship from a pure place. Let’s be real…after all these years I still haven’t met anyone who can sing and bring me into the presence of God like she can. She has a gift that is worth millions and had she became an “artist” instead of a worshipper, she would have easily earned those millions. She chose to pursue her love of God and not riches and fame, and in the process, has become an example for many to see and explore a “Whole New World”. Like the song says, "I’m like a shooting star, I’ve come so far and now I can’t go back to where I used to be". Thank you Pastor Mary for showing me the way.
Princess Giselle by Melanie Gomez
Pastor Mary is my "Giselle"! You know the one from "Enchanted" who is ridiculously, insanely, naively optimistic about love and life? That's her!
The only difference is that Giselle is optimistic because she comes from Andalasia, a fantasy cartoon land, where everything ends "happily ever after". So when she ends up in the real world (New York City of all places), she applies the same fantasy land rules to the real world.
But she reminds me so much of Pastor Mary, because she believes whole-hearted in TRUE LOVE and all that it means and stands for, and refuses to speak anything other than true love and happy endings. This is my Pastor Mary!!! Thank God for her influence in my life over these past 15 years. When I said to her, "medical doctors have said there is no hope for my baby boy - they say he won’t speak, won’t walk, and will be tragically disabled all of his life" she looked me straight in the eyes and with all authority said "that's not going to happen!" - thanks Giselle! When I called her on the phone to say, "I think my marriage is over" she said to me "no, it is not!" - Hooray for happy endings! When I see her sacrificing for the ministry, serving others so faithfully, I can almost hear the "Happy Working Song" that Giselle sings and it gives me hope, courage and strength to carry on my own work.
Pastor Mary believes these things, because she stands unwavering on the Bible and every promise that is held therein for believers. Countless times I have sat under the sound of her voice, while she is preaching or while she is ministering in song, and have heard that same voice rise up against the "real world" and tell me that there will be a happy ending, that true love will always prevail, and that everything is always gonna be bright and sunny!! And she has always, always, always been right - as long as I chose to believe her words and know that she is echoing my own heavenly Father's true love song for me.
Pastor Mary, like Giselle, lives out I Corinthians 13 every day, and motivates me to do the same! Thanks Pastor Mary and Happy Birthday!!
Join us in honoring Pastor Mary for her Birthday and tell us which Princess she most reminds you of.
Pastor Steve - I love the originality of this week's blog. I've had the pleasure and priviledge of serving under Pastor Mary for over 9 years and can I tell you, she's the real deal! She is transparent and unpretentious. She's the same during rehearsals as she is on Sunday mornings leading service. She's beautiful with make up and without, with her hair done or pony tail. Because her beauty is from deep inside. From a lifetime of experience loving God's people wanting so much for God to happen to them. Happy Birthday to my Pastor Mary! I love you and love to stand by you on our journey through this life into the next!
Have to agree with Des on Belle only that would make Pastor Steve "Beast" by default which would be wrong!!! Been a pleasure to have been a part of this fairy tale!!! Happy Birthday Pastor Mary!!!
Pastor Mary may look like Rapunzel and Aurora, dress like Princess Giselle…but her character reminds me alot of Snow White and we are her little dwarves. She is sweet, caring and very nurturing. She sees the good in everyone and everything; her wise words always bring a positive outlook on life. Plus she sings good too and got married to a Prince Charming named Steve.
Good Job honoring your Beautiful Wife, both of you are amazing!
I’m so glad the ladies took over today’s blog in honor of Pastor Mary, every word was precious and so true about her. I can say with all my heart that I love my Pastor Mary, when I saw her yesterday getting her hair done, and I couldn’t help but feel this tremendous care for her in my heart. When God brought me to Metro Life 12 years ago, I was lost and broken, I really had no trust for anyone. I didn’t know how to be a woman of God. I am so thankful that God gave me her as an anointed example of how a woman should live for God; in her worship to Him, as a wife, as a mother, as a friend, as a mentor…..etc… so much more I can say, I am so blessed to be a part of her life! Happy Birthday Pastor Mary, with love always, Gloria
I have to agree with Dez on this one. Princess Belle, definitely! I have not worked with Pastor Mary, but that doesn't mean that I cannot see what a beautiful, talented, God loving person she is. She just lights up the room. She is definitely sent from God with her voice like an angel singing to us.
I think this week's blog is very unique and lovely. I loved reading it!
It's been a privileged to serve with, work with, worship with and learn from Pastor Mary. It's been many years now and our lives (my wife and I) have been truly enriched by Pastor Mary's life, her example and her wise counsel. So, a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you!!!
I get the princess reference... I really do; but, in this context, if I may... I see her as a Queen. For several reasons but primarily because she ALWAYS honors her King; Pastor Steve. Find THAT in the world today!! That's truly what I admire most about Pastor Mary... a strong woman that could stand on her own if she wished; but understands that kingdoms were called "KING"doms for a reason.
I've watched this honor she has for her King make it possible for them to create a 'happily-ever-after' that has blessed many many people and their own lives as well. It has also set a high standard and example for women, that if lived up to, creates the same 'happily-ever-after' for ANYONE who dares to do the same.
Now off to some croquet and some life-sized chess games that are taking place during the jousting match...
Happy Birthday Queen Mary !!
So many times I have tried to write on this blog and somehow I mess it up. Here I go...awesome blog from the ladies. Our lives have all been impacted by our Pastor Mary. She is so full of wisdom and unconditional love. She is genuine and believe me has poured into my life many times. I can tell you she knocked sense into me when I had issues in my marriage. She will tell you straight up and I am glad I listened to her because she is wise beyond her years. Happy birthday to the most awesome princess we know and love.
Thump, thump...is this mic on...HAPPY BIRTHDAY,PASTOR MARY!!! (That was from Carissa & Evangelo).
This was an awesome blog! You're in a princess class all by yourself, Pastor Mary! Enjoy, and Happy Birthday!
Hands down, the Bestest Blog thus far! I agree with CaLana, "Pastor Mary, you're in a PRINCESS class all by yourself"!
I'm so blessed, my family & I are sooo Blessed to have you in our lives. We all adore and Love you!
I don't have a great relationship with my mom (praying for restoration and healing) BUT I will never forget when I reached out to you in PANIC on Jan. 5 at 8:45am "Pastor Mary, Lamont just told me of his plans during the Womanity Conference weekend, for my birthday! What am I going to do, OMG!?" I was truly having an anxiety attack. You respond back in 8 min and said "You must go on your trip. Just be there Thursday night! What a sweet husband you have! Btw, we knew already!!!"
You have no idea how relieved I was. You were like my mom giving me her blessings to go, her approval, her thumps up!
Thank you, thank you for being there for Lamont during his planning!LOL
Thank you, for being there for me when I needed you!
Thank you, for sharing your family (Chris, Steph, Lauren and Gaby) with my family (Destiny & Suly).
I'm looking forward to my continued journey with you and Pastor Steve!
Loved this blog! Have to agree with Des...Princess Belle! You are beautiful, strong, wise, loving, and caring! So many are watching your every step, listening to your every word! What do I see? What do I hear? I see how a Godly wife is to love; how a Godly mother is to act; and how a Godly woman is to think. Love you! Happy Birthday to a true princess...my Pastor Mary!
Definitely a Princess Tiana 'cause she's got soul! All the princess stories were amazing - loved it!
So beautifully said! A perfect tribute - for a wonderful woman!
Happy HAPPY B'Day Pastor Mary!!! I admire this GODLY WOMAN! I believe, feel, see, perceive the fruit of the Spirit on her! She is kind, loving, caring, gentle, humble... Transparent, honest, smart, honorable... She is a virtous woman!!! She is a great example of WOMANITY.
Thank you very much Pastor Mary for all the efforts, steps of faith, for the legacy you have been building throughout your journey. Thank you for teaching us not only by words but by actions God's design for womanity.
The princess that reminds me of you is Rapunzel because she is a strong, courageous, loving, gentle character. Everytime she sings; she brings healing, restoration, peace. That's what you bring every sunday and everytime you sing, even on the CDs!!! Rapunzel also changes the atmosphere when she sings, just like You :)
It would be very difficult to choose just one princess that represents the amazing qualities possessed by Pastor Mary. She represents the qualities of many of the princesses all in one package. She is not only beautiful on the outside but beautiful on the inside. She is an example of a God loving, God fearing woman. I am truly honored and blessed to call her my Pastor. Happy Birthday Pastor Mary. Thank you for being a true example of a Godly woman, mother and wife.
Love you. Jackie Rodriguez
My turn...well it's too difficult to choose just one princess because you embody all of the princess' characteristics that have already been mentioned. I have to say that you remind me of Cinderella most of all. Like Cinderella, you are a humble beauty and a timeless treasure. Cinderella is one of the original beauties that inspired the creation of the newer princesses, and you are an inspiration to every woman and young girl that you meet. Cinderella had many unpleasant things come her way in life, but they did not harden her heart...You have endured much and are always positive in perspective, because of your trust in the Lord. Cinderella is regal in every atmosphere, she befriends every person and creature because she exudes love...that's just what you do, always making every single person feel special and loved. Cinderella changed the environment that she was in because of her unique spirit...just like you do. You bring your wisdom, great personality, charisma, and the anointing that the Lord has placed on you into the atmosphere you're in. Cinderella was so special that her fabulous stiletto only fit her, because she literally "stood" alone in a category of wonderful, just like YOU.
The story of Cinderella is the most published princess fairytale, that's been retold the most, with adaptions that fit the cultures that span the world. That's just like you, as you bless the world with your transcending gifts, that serve as a pointer to our Father, and the greatest story of all-time. You are a precious part of that story that's told through your life.
Happy Birthday Pastor Mary! You are no fantasy, you are the realest, and that's another quality that I love. You are a gift, a real princess! I love you.
Happy Birthday Pastor Mary and may God continue to bless you as you bless so many of us. Luv ya
I like the Queen Mary analogy, not only for the “honoring the King” quality in her life, though yes! I have appreciated and learned from that and I enjoy watching her gaze and honor Pastor Steve but I especially delight in the authority she demonstrates in whatever she does, I admire that! Love you Pastor Mary! Happy Birthday!
What a great way to celebrate a real woman, who encompasses the archetypical qualities of each of the princesses mentioned. I am partial to Belle, Beauty and the Beast being my favorite tale of all time. Belle is able to look beyond the outside to the beauty inside and reaps the rewards of looking deeper. Pastor Mary you've been an example to me of real womanhood. You are a girl's girl, a woman of worth, of purpose and of God. The Lord anointed you with a voice that is a vessel that takes us into the throne room; a face worthy of magazine covers and a heart full of love.
"Her children rise up and call her blessed;
Her husband also, and he praises her:
“Many daughters have done well,
But you excel them all.” Prov. 31:28-29
I am proud to call you my Pastor, You are our Princess Mary of MLC! Happy Birthday and may the Lord continue to broaden your territory!
Oh, by the way, Pastor Mary's Ladies in Waiting really did a fine job with the blog this week! It was a privilege to read your comments.
Pastor Mary reminds me of MULAN -- a warrior, a fighter, strong woman in the Lord. She is a worshipping-intercessor & an interceding-worshipper!
How privileged we are, Pastor Mary, to be under your spiritual covering, as we have a “spiritual mom” who knows how to knock on heaven’s door and stand in-the-gap for her “children”.
For your birthday, I pray that the Lord will take you to heights and depths in Him that you’ve never been before.
The best is yet to come.
Happy Birthday Pastor Mary, Hope you have an amazing day. May God Bless you and your family always. xoxo =)
Happy Birthday Pastor Mary!! It is clear that God created you for a great purpose.May god continue to bless you and use you in all of his ways.Thank you because without you knowing me you have touch my life in a very special way, Happy b'day from Mary and Denise
P.S (we are new @Metro Life Church)
Happy Birthday! What is a birthday? It's a day we celebrate our birth, but how much more is it exciting when we celebrate our years of earthly life wwhile walking with Jesus!!! It's that more special. While others celebrate their birthdays in bars and clubs, we celebrate as the House of God does it. Congratulations, Pastor Mary, you deserve to be honored for your ardous labor in the ministry. May you have a whole lot more birthdays to come in the Lord.
I hope it is not too late to send my words of affection and love for pastor Mary Alessi on her birthday. Although I haven't worked with her or for her I can see on pastor Mary a mighty woman of God who ministers to God's heart with her praise and worship; she is also a woman of spiritual warfare who has no fear of the enemy or fear of men. I want to compare her with a great woman in the Bible called Deborah. She was a judge to Israel; The word "judge" did not mean then what it means now. A judge in Israel was a tribal leader who in time of peace had authority to settle disputes and problems; and in times of war acted as point to gather the tribes and organize resistance. That is what she does when she ministers to us the tribe of Metrolife church; she is an spiritual mother for us women of Metro;we know about her wisdom and want her judgment and advice on difficult situations; she also has a word of exhortation and encouragement when we feel crushed, when is time of war to get back what the enemy stole from our lives. The people of Deborah's time had no difficulty on accepting her as a judge because they knew she always heard from God. I would say more than a princess of a fairy tale pastor Mary is a very real woman of God, is the Deborah of our time. Happy birthday Pastor Mary! May the Lord increase you in wisdom and knowledge.