The sanctuary of San Pablo Lutheran Church was filled with a spirit of unity and devotion as believers from various US, Mexico, and Latin America churches gathered for a special Divine Worship service on Wednesday night, October 2, 2024. Organized by San Pablo, and held in conjunction with the Mexico FORO hosted by Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM), the service brought together pastors and congregants from Wisconsin, Texas, Mexico, Panama, and the Dominican Republic, creating a beautiful tapestry of fellowship.

The service began with participation from San Pablo’s youth, and several pastors who had traveled for the FORO event, as Mariachi San Pablo opened with a beloved hymn. Pastor Mauricio Franco from Harlingen, Texas, Pastor Misael Tovar from Chihuahua City, and Pastor Omar Garza from Tijuana took part in the Scripture readings, delivering the Word of God with reverence and sincerity, uniting the congregation in reflection on the sacred texts.

Leading the liturgy and the institution of the Lord’s Supper were Rev. Richard Schlack of Ascension Lutheran Church in El Paso and Rev. Jose Hernandez of Santisima Trinidad in Ciudad Juárez. Their roles in the service, especially in celebrating the Lord’s Supper, were a powerful reminder of the shared faith and communion uniting believers all around the world.

The guest preacher for this special occasion was Rev. Isaac Garcia, president of the Mexico Lutheran Synod. His sermon, rooted in Romans 8, inspired the hearts of all in attendance. Pastor Isaac passionately encouraged everyone to hold fast to the justification they have received through faith, made possible by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. His words served as a profound reminder of the hope and assurance believers have in their Savior, no matter where they are from or the challenges they face.

This Divine Worship service was more than just a gathering for worship—it was a celebration of the body of Christ. Representatives from churches across Texas, Wisconsin, Mexico City, Panama, and the Dominican Republic stood together, united in their faith, worshipping as one. The diversity of the congregants and pastors was a powerful testament to the reach of God’s love and the unity found in the Gospel.

After the service, a warm and welcoming reception provided an opportunity for everyone to come together in fellowship. Conversations flowed easily as pastors and congregants mingled, sharing stories, laughter, and encouragement. It was a time for deeper connections, where the bonds of friendship and faith were strengthened over food and conversation.

The Divine Worship service at San Pablo Lutheran Church was not only a beautiful expression of worship but also a celebration of the vibrant and interconnected Lutheran community in the Americas. In moments like these, the Church’s true nature is revealed—one body, many parts, united in Christ.