Something is happening at Iglesia Luterana La Santa Biblia in Anapra.
Week by week, Pastor Oscar Saavedra is settling into the life of the congregation, working alongside its leaders, visiting families, teaching God’s Word, and building relationships within the community. His presence is bringing consistency to a congregation ready to grow in its understanding of Scripture and its role in sharing the Gospel.
Each week, Pastor Saavedra meets with the leadership of La Santa Biblia to discuss the needs of the congregation, upcoming events, and opportunities for ministry. These meetings have also become a time for instruction as he teaches the Council Scripture and Lutheran doctrine, helping its members better understand their responsibilities and God’s calling for His Church.
The congregation is moving forward as well.
After gathering for worship on Friday evenings for many years, members voted to move their services to Sunday. Today, close to 40 people gather each Sunday to hear God’s Word and prepare for the Sacrament, which Pastor Saavedra will begin administering following his ordination in October.
Friday has not disappeared from the ministry calendar. Instead, it has become another opportunity to grow.
Pastor Saavedra now offers a Friday morning Bible study for members of the congregation and the surrounding community. Through these studies, participants are learning about the Church, its purpose, and its relationship with God. Sunday worship is being strengthened by Friday study, giving people another opportunity to gather around God’s Word.
Pastoral care is also moving beyond the church property.
Pastor Saavedra has begun visiting families in their homes, bringing Scripture, prayer, and fellowship directly to them. He visits members who are sick and spends time with families waiting for YLM Servant Event homes, allowing him to know the people he serves and walk alongside them through their everyday lives.
And already, there are signs of growth.
Recently, a new family with young teenagers walked through the doors of La Santa Biblia. They were welcomed with warmth and joy by the congregation. One new family may seem like a small beginning, but it represents something much greater. A church with a pastor present can reach outward, welcome new people, care for families, teach the faith, and build relationships that invite others into the life of the Church.
This is why Build Up in Love matters.
YLM made a commitment to help provide financial support for pastors serving our partner congregations and missions in Mexico. We are working to raise $45,000 by October 31, and reaching that goal is essential to continuing this commitment.
We are not simply raising money to fill a budget line. We are supporting pastors so they can be present.
Present at the bedside of someone who is sick. Present in the home of a family needing prayer. Present with church leaders learning how to serve. Present in Bible study as questions are asked and faith grows. Present on Sunday when a new family walks through the doors looking for a church home.
At La Santa Biblia, we are beginning to see what that presence can do.
But this growing ministry needs people willing to stand behind it. Build Up in Love needs your help. Every gift brings us closer to our $45,000 goal and helps sustain pastoral ministry at La Santa Biblia and YLM’s other partner congregations and missions in Mexico.
Please prayerfully consider making a gift before October 31. Help us keep pastors present, congregations growing, and the Gospel moving outward into the communities they serve.
The pastors are there. The ministry is growing. Now, together, let’s Build Up in Love.
