October was a month full of connection and collaboration for Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM), as staff members traveled across the country to share about the ministry taking place along the U.S.–Mexico border and to learn from others engaged in mission work around the world.
During the first week of October, Interim Executive Director Karla Gonzalez attended the Mexico FORO in San Diego, California. The FORO gathered pastors, deaconesses, and mission-minded individuals committed to strengthening Lutheran ministry throughout Mexico.
Karla had the opportunity to network with representatives from the Mexico Lutheran Synod (SLM) and discuss updates on upcoming agreements between YLM’s Mexico mission partners and the Synod. Together, participants explored ways to support congregations and leaders serving in communities across Mexico. Karla also visited one of the newest established Lutheran churches in Tijuana, witnessing firsthand how God continues to grow His Church.
Later that same week, Karla traveled to Breckenridge, Colorado, for the Rocky Mountain District All-Church Workers’ Conference. There, she shared updates about YLM’s ministries, highlighting the mission’s work in the areas of mercy, missions, and music. YLM is one of five Recognized Service Organizations (RSOs) of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod located within the Rocky Mountain District.
The conference provided an important opportunity to connect with pastors and church workers who serve in diverse communities across the region.
The second week of October brought another exciting opportunity to share YLM’s story—this time at the annual Missions Festival at Hales Corners Lutheran Church in Wisconsin. YLM staff members Miguel Muñoz and Daniel Madriz represented YLM at the weekend event. For Daniel, who has served at YLM for three years, this was his first time representing the organization at a conference.
“I was amazed to see so many people interested in mission work,” Daniel shared. “Not only were we able to tell others about YLM, but we also learned about other organizations doing incredible work—those making Bibles available in different languages, and others serving in places like Africa and Ukraine.”
These opportunities allow YLM to both share the story of what God is doing along the border of El Paso, Texas, and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, and to celebrate the broader body of Christ working together to bring hope, mercy, and the Gospel to people everywhere. Each conference, connection, and conversation strengthens partnerships and encourages continued collaboration in God’s mission to change lives every day through simple acts of kindness.
Give us a call at (915) 858-2588 or send an email to luz.soto@ylm.org if you would like to invite YLM to your congregation to present about it’s ministries and ways your congregation can partner to make an eternal difference in the border cities of El Paso, TX and Cd. Juarez, Mexico.