At Iglesia Luterana Santísima Trinidad in El Paso, Texas, the growth of the church has been nurtured with deep care and reverence through the instruction of God’s Word and a serious view toward the Sacraments of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. At the heart of this growth is Rev. Jose Angel Hernandez, who spends an entire year walking alongside families, preparing them for these sacred milestones in the faith of their children.

In a culture where baptism and confirmation are often viewed as customs or obligations, Pastor Hernandez remains steadfast in offering a different, more faithful approach—one grounded in Scripture and rooted in intentional discipleship. His commitment ensures each family and youth involved gains a clear understanding of the spiritual meaning of these rites and their lifelong significance as followers of Christ.

This careful preparation came to joyful fruition on Easter Sunday, when the church gathered to celebrate new life in Christ. Families whose children were to be baptized stood at the front of the sanctuary, as Pastor Hernandez reflected on their year of preparation. He also reminded the congregation of their shared role in supporting these individuals as new members of Christ’s body.

During the service, ten children of varying ages were baptized, each one by one, with Pastor Hernandez pouring the water and presenting a lit baptismal candle—a symbol of the light of Christ now shining in their lives. The sanctuary was filled with joy and reverence as these young lives were welcomed into the family of faith.

Following the baptisms, six youth who completed their confirmation classes were invited to come forward. With guidance from Pastor Hernandez, they publicly confessed their faith in Christ. This powerful declaration was followed by their first participation in the Lord’s Supper—a deeply moving moment for both the youth and their families. Many parents were brought to tears, overwhelmed by the beauty and significance of seeing their children step into a more mature walk of faith. The congregation responded with heartfelt support, some even applauding with joy.

For the people of Santísima Trinidad, Easter Sunday is more than a day on the church calendar. It is a celebration of God’s promises fulfilled through His Son, Jesus Christ, His Word, and His Sacraments. It reflected the fruit of patient teaching, deep prayer, and a shared commitment to grow together in faith.

Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM), a partner of Santísima Trinidad since 1990, also rejoiced in witnessing this growth. They have long supported the church’s mission and now celebrate how seriously the congregation continues to treat baptism and confirmation—not as mere tradition, but as encounters with God’s grace, meant to be deeply understood and faithfully lived.