When Austin Angerman stepped onto Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care’s (YLM) campus for the first time, he carried a simple hope. He wanted to learn, to serve, and to understand the heart of the ministry he had learned about at the 2026 LCMS Youth Gathering in New Orleans, LA. What he did not expect was how quickly the experience would shape him, inspire him, and stir something new within his own congregation back home.
Austin, a DCE from Faith Lutheran Church in Georgetown, Texas, joined the Faith Pierre Servant Event team as a guest and learner. From the moment he arrived, he jumped in with joy and curiosity. He helped lead the two-day VBS, working alongside several young adults to play, sing, teach, and love nearly fifty children. His laughter blended with theirs, and his energy lifted the whole group.
Throughout the week, Austin watched the Faith Pierre team work with unity and purpose. He saw how they built a home in three and a half days, how they painted two other homes, how they prayed with families, and how they served with humility. He saw the way they encouraged one another and welcomed him as if he had always been part of their team.
By the time he returned to Georgetown, Austin carried more than memories. He carried a spark. He immediately began sharing his experience with his congregation, and excitement started to grow. Plans are already forming for a first-time team from Faith Georgetown to serve with YLM in 2027.
Austin did not stop there. He reached out to nearby Lutheran churches and encouraged other DCEs to consider joining him. His hope is to bring a multi church team of students to serve in Mexico, creating a shared experience that strengthens faith, builds friendships, and opens hearts to the joy of serving others.
Austin’s first trip to YLM was more than a week of service. It was the beginning. His enthusiasm, his vision, and his desire to bring others into this mission reflect the beautiful way God works through one willing heart.
If you’d like to experience God’s fulfilled promises to those in need, reach out to YLM’s Servant Event ministry for information on how you can partner in this mission to “change lives every day through simple acts of kindness.” Call (915) 858-2588 or send an email to luz.soto@ylm.org to connect!
