A Precious Gift:

Bibles for Immigration Detainees

Many times, when moving to another country, things of sentimental value, such as photo albums and family heirlooms, are left behind. For many of the men and women at the Immigration Detention Center in El Paso, this is very much the case.

In an effort to give them spiritual comfort during an uncertain period of their lives, the Lutheran Prison Ministry at Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM) has reached out the sharing of the Good News, where the most precious gift to them is their own Holy Bible in their native language.

It has been an eye opening experience for Dr. Rev. Karl Heimer, who dedicates his Saturdays to minister to the men and women who left behind their home countries in search of a better future.

“Not many of the detainees are from Mexico, as some people might mistakenly assume,” Rev. Heimer shared during an informal interview, “Aside from Latin America, like Venezuela, Cuba, Brazil and even Argentina, there’s also detainees from Belize, Australia, China, England –some time back, there was a German as well.”

Over 500 Bibles in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese were donated to YLM’s Lutheran Prison Ministry earlier this year; several of the Portuguese Bible have been given away at the Detention Center recently. A French version was among the distribution of Bibles just a couple of weeks ago.

Leah Bolgar, who keeps track of Bibles received and distributed, shared how often she has to replenish the Bibles taken to the Detention Center. “Keeping the shelves full can sometimes be a challenge,” she shared as she unpacked several of the boxes containing the French and Portuguese Bibles, “But it’s rewarding to see God’s Word being placed in hands of those who need to know Him.” According to Leah’s records, over 600 Bibles total were given out in the first three months of the year. When there are over a 100 plus men attending Rev. Heimer’s service, and just as many women attending a later service, it’s a true blessing to be able to give them a gift they will cherish above all else –God’s Loving Word.

What’s amazingly joyful for Rev. Heimer is the opportunity to show neighborly love through such a simple yet meaningful gift. As the Lutheran Prison Ministry at YLM continues to reach out and share God’s Word, it is truly comforting to all involved to know with absolute certainty, this Holy Book will be more than a sentimental gift left behind.

Instead, it will become the means to transform lives and open hearts, giving a Home to those who have none.