Each year, a group of dedicated volunteers from Trinity Lutheran Church in Lincoln, NE, sets off on a mission to make a difference in the lives of families in need through Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM). These mission trips, which began back in 2001, have a way for this congregation to take the Gospel to the nations.

Their goal is simple but profound: share the love of Christ with others using their skills and talents.

This March, a team of ten from Trinity Lutheran Church arrived at YLM, ready to start work on building a new home in the community of Anapra, just on the outskirts of Cd. Juarez, Mexico.

Their mission was to construct a two-room house for Ramiro, his wife Jasmin, and their three sons: Cesar (16), Kevin (14), and Julio (9). The family had been living in a one-room structure made from pallets and cardboard, and it was clear a new home would change their lives.

The building project was no small feat, but the team jumped into action with enthusiasm.

The house was built on a small plot of land next to the family’s old home. While Ramiro and the older boys, Cesar and Kevin, went to work each day, Jasmin and young Julio stayed behind to help the team with whatever tasks they could. Their dedication to the project was evident, and the family’s involvement made the whole experience even more meaningful for the volunteers.

The team ended up facing an unexpected challenge: the weather. High winds and blowing sand made work difficult and forced the team to adjust their plans. On the second day, the conditions were especially tough, with sand obstructing their vision and making communication a challenge.

The team didn’t give up, however. They pushed through these difficulties and managed to complete the house, even though they had to cut some days short due to the unpredictable weather.

By the end of the week, a safe and sturdy home for Ramiro, Jasmin, and their three sons was dedicated, with a celebration taking place afterwards. For the family, it was a blessing they will remember for most of their lives. The Trinity Lutheran team expressed how grateful they were for the opportunity to help, many of them noting the stark contrast between the family’s old living conditions and the new home they helped create.

This mission trip is not just about building homes—it’s about building relationships and making a lasting impact by living out the Gospel. For the members of Trinity Lutheran Church, this trip was a reminder of how a small act of service can change lives, one family at a time. As they headed back to Lincoln, they left behind a family that could now look forward to a brighter, more secure future in their new home, which will serve as a daily reminder of God’s love, grace, and mercy for them.

Would you like to know more about YLM’s Servant Event mission trip opportunities? Call us at (915) 858-2588 or send an email to luz.soto@ylm.org!