For many years, St. Paul Lutheran Church of Mt. Prospect, IL has faithfully partnered with Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM), serving families in need across Sparks, Clint, and Agua Dulce. Known for their readiness to help, this year the team of eight arrived with a specific project in mind –remodeling the altar area of San Pablo Lutheran Church, a place they have long supported through years of Servant Event missions.
Their relationship with the small congregation is built on trust and care. Over the years, YLM Servant Event teams have repaired and updated many parts of the church: the front oak doors, the narthex and interior doors, bathrooms, the vestibule, children’s Sunday room, and even transforming a side room into offices. Each improvement has been made with attention to both function and beauty, and the altar renovation continued that tradition.
Three members of the team arrived early to begin preparations. Railings and steps were disassembled, old carpet and side paneling removed, and materials cleared for the main work. When the rest of the team arrived on Saturday, they were met with a space ready for transformation. Replacing plywood flooring where needed took place before new wood-style vinyl flooring was laid down. The railings were carefully shortened, sanded, and stained, and the kneeling step was widened with new cushions the team had purchased months in advance. Sturdy handrails were installed on either side, and all wood surfaces were stained a rich brown, highlighting the natural grain.
Throughout the week, several members of the team worked alongside members of Campus Lutheran Church of Columbia, MO, who were serving in Agua Dulce and Sparks. Together, the two teams formed one community, sharing devotions, stories, laughter, and the occasional challenge. By Friday night, the altar area was complete. Floors were clean, the aisle carpet vacuumed, and the lectern, pulpit, and main altar received a fresh coat of stain, leaving the space refreshed and ready for Palm Sunday worship.
The impact of these renovations goes beyond the wood and flooring. For the members of San Pablo, many of whom are older, the updates improve accessibility and comfort, making it easier to gather, worship, and experience God’s presence. For the Servant Event team, the work reflects a deeper calling; to serve faithfully, bringing care, attention, and Christ’s love into every detail.
We give thanks for the partnership and dedication of St. Paul Lutheran Church of Mt. Prospect, IL. If your congregation is interested in experiencing the joy of serving through a YLM Servant Event, we encourage you to reach out. Call (915) 858-2588 or email luz.soto@ylm.org to learn more about joining a mission team and seeing God’s work firsthand in the borderland.
