Ysleta Lutheran Mission and San Pablo Lutheran Church
Did you know that the Rocky Mountain District is involved in an international mission outreach, one that is actually based within the geographic area of our district?
In 1981 the Rocky Mountain District purchased 4.2 acres of land and 14 buildings in El Paso, Texas that would soon become the home of the Ysleta Lutheran Mission and San Pablo Lutheran Church, a thriving ministry reaching out to the Spanish-speaking people living along the United States-Mexico border.
The Mission and Church Today
There are many servant activities taking place through Ysleta and San Pablo that bring God’s mercy and serve as His voice to the people. Clothing and food are distributed on a weekly basis. Donations of food from the Orphan Grain Train make it possible for the mission to serve in this capacity as well as partnership with the local food bank. An onsite thrift store receives donations from across the country. YLM shares those items with the local church and missions, area schools, orphanages, hospitals and a jail and hospitals in Mexico. Several times throughout the year, free medical checkups and eye exams are provided. Many donors and volunteers help to repair houses and build an average of 15 homes every year for needy families amongst the local congregation and missions. They have also helped to repair and build churches on both sides of the border. Food baskets, school supplies, health kits and Christmas gifts are just some of the things that have been collected and distributed to families in the missions, shelters and orphanages.
One unique and effective ministry of Ysleta is their Music Ministry. Twelve members participate in Mariachi San Pablo, children, youth, and adults. They perform throughout El Paso and Juarez several times each year The group also travels and performs at conventions, conferences and community events. They strive to reach others through Christian and popular music, both in Spanish and English, thereby planting the seeds of grace in settings normally dominated by secular music only. Miguel Munoz is the head of this Music Ministry. As leader he leads bilingual devotions and Bible study for the group.
How You Can Help
More than ever, this ministry needs prayer and support! Monetary gifts to help Ysleta fulfill their mission may be sent directly to the ministry, or they may be channeled through the Rocky Mountain District office. A variety of servant event needs and other giving possibilities can be explored by visiting the Ysleta Lutheran Mission website, www.ylm.org. Please consider helping!