At this time of the year
San Pablo and the Mexico missions open their church doors and spill
into the streets to proclaim Christ's birth. Trumpets sound,
the guitars and violins blaze, and the congregations sing praises to
Christ as they walk down the streets of El Paso and Juarez.
They stop at homes and businesses and reenact Mary & Joseph's search
for a place to stay in Bethlehem. Finally they return to their
church and are allowed to come in like Mary and Joseph were allowed
to stay in the final stable. A Christmas message is given and
the celebration with food, candy, and piñata
begins. This year YLM's mariachi musicians worked together
with the student musicians at Santisima Trinidad to lead music at
all the Juarez missions. This is the first time the guitarists
from Santisima Trinidad traveled to play music at Cristo Rey and San
Lucas Lutheran Church. Stephen Heimer and Miguel Muñoz
picked them and Pastor Herenandez up in the YLM van and drove
across Juarez to the other churches.
On Saturday, December
20th, San Pablo Lutheran Church held its annual Christmas
distribution. Hundreds of people from Juarez and the El Paso
area arrived in need of help. Recipients were registered
in advance and many unregistered families and individuals arrived as
well. Thanks be to God, there was sufficient food, toys, and
supplies to assist everyone. At separate events, aid is also
being distributed in Mexico by our partner missions and churches.
YLM had been very low on donations, but in the week before the
distribution, help arrived from various sources. Volunteers
from San Pablo and the Juarez churches dedicated hundreds of hours
in the final days of preparation, sorting food into grocery bags for
easy distribution.
Donations
Arriving In Time for Christmas - posted Dec.
17, 2008
After weeks of prayer
and communicating our need, donations are arriving to help the poor
this Christmas. Churches and individuals as well as the Orphan
Grain Train have all responded with food, clothing, school supplies,
toys, and more. On Saturday, December 20th, hundreds of people
who are registered with San Pablo Lutheran Church will receive the
donations. Elvira Viramontes, YLM's distribution coordinator,
has also been arranging the transportation of donations into Mexico
throughout this month and will continue in the next several weeks.
"I saw our empty warehouse and was concerned for the people who were
signed up for assistance on the El Paso side," explained Elvira.
Volunteers have been working hard to all the items, especially the
toys which require sorting cleaning and sometimes replacement
batteries. It is a task for which Elvira is very passionate.
"I want the toys to look beautiful. We assemble donated items
into packets with theme so that a Noah's Arch toy will be placed
with a Noah's Arch book or video, for example."
Elvira notes the incoming items
Genaro using the forklift to unload donations from Orphan Grain Train
Servant
Event from St. John's - posted Dec. 2, 2008
This mission team of 14
from St. John's Lutheran Church in Bakersfield, CA spent their
Thanksgiving week serving the people of the border region. Most of
the members of this team have been on several mission trips before,
but this was their first time serving through YLM. The team divided
to hold eye clinics, witness to those that came to the clinic, and
complete some construction projects helping needy families. The
vision team was able to perform 460 eye exams, delivering
approximately 400 pairs of glasses. Since the team did not have
prescriptions on hand to match every need they returned home to make
glasses that they will then be mailed and delivered before
Christmas. One young man who helped to translate for the group, and
was especially curious as to what their instruments were measuring,
was excited to hear this news! The evangelism team was able to
witness to those that visited the clinic and had several wonderful
conversations with people about their faith and the hope that we
have in Christ.
In addition, the
construction team of 4 worked to help 2 needy families in Juarez by
making repairs to their homes. They also helped start the
construction of a storage area for servant event materials on YLM's
campus. With this protected area, servant event staff will be able
to purchase materials in bulk and in advance saving both time and
money!
1,400 meals were served this year by the
servant event from Our Father Lutheran Church, Centennial, CO, with
the largest turnout being 500 at Santisima Trinidad. This year
marks the fourteenth annual pilgrimage of Our Father Lutheran Church
from to YLM at Thanksgiving. Each year this group serves meals
at San Pablo in El Paso and Missions in Juarez. The menu
features turkey, potatoes, corn, charro beans, salsa, rolls, and
cake. This year they added a meal to the schedule at Cristo
Rey Lutheran Church in Juarez. Additionally, the team joined a
group from Bakersfield, CA, to begin building a new storage area on
the YLM campus to shelter supplies for building houses.
Missionary Chris "dog-piled" by Cristo Rey children
Our Father Lutheran Church servants building shelter
The "kids' table" at Thanksgiving Dinner at Cristo Rey
One of many signs that greeted Chris Hill at Cristo Rey.
Full House at Santisima Trinidad Lutheran Church, Juarez
Serving the meal at Santisima Trinidad.
The shelter for materials that will become homes for many.
"Our church is full!" says Rosy, our
ministry facilitator in Juarez & deaconess student at the Missionary
Institute. "We divide the Sunday school materials between
Cristo Rey [near downtown Juarez] and San Lucas [in Anapra].
New people are coming...to worship and Sunday School at Cristo Rey
Lutheran Church in Juarez. We are also becoming more organized
as a church, teaching members about our constitution and organizing
our files.
The Adelante Music Ministry held its 2008 Fall
Recital on Thursday, November 20, 2008. A total 40 students
performed, including special piano performances by two of Mariachi
San Pablo’s members. The program included one piano class, three
violin classes, one voice class, three guitar classes, San Pablo
Choir, special piano performance, and Mariachi San Pablo. Over 50
families attended the event and helped cheer on all performers. Many
students cannot wait until the Spring classes begin next year. Well
done and Adelante!!!
A servant event group associated with Most
Ministries, came to Ysleta Lutheran Mission in November and visited
mission churches in Juarez: Martin Lutero and Santisima Trinidad.
The group saw over 650 children and adults to provide eyeglasses.
The group was made up of people from Michigan, Arkansas and Florida.
Aside from working hard in Juarez, the group also took a day to take
in the El Paso’s beautiful sites. They visited scenic drive and
Hueco Tanks State Park.
Junior High Students
Build House and More - posted Nov. 10, 2008
The servant event group from from Peace
Lutheran Church in Antigo, WI, made up of 10 adults and 14 Junior
High School students, came to serve Nov. 1-8. This
group, led by Rev. Dave Karolus, built an entire house and fixed two
roofs at Santisima Trinidad Lutheran Church. The group also
led a Sunday School lesson on Sunday at handed out 100 t-shirts with
"John 3:16" in Spanish. On Wednesday they led a VBS activity and
provided a piñata for area
children. All were very eager to go to Juarez and do God’s work.
One evening they visited El Paso’s
Scenic Drive to enjoy the view of the valley filled with the lights
of El Paso and Juarez. View a video from the VBS:
Musical Chairs:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bi0CekIFTBM
Super Seniors Y Dance
Banquet-
posted Nov. 4, 2008
Super Seniors Y Dance held its last
banquet of 2008 on Saturday, October 25. The event was held at
Friends & Neighbors Adult Day Care, one of the programs sites, with
over 200 people in attendance. The fall themed event included dance
demonstrations from various participants from different sites, a
guest DJ that also provided karaoke, a costume contest, and many
raffles. This fall event marks the eve of ceased funding by the
Paso del Norte Health Foundation to end on November 30, 2008.
Although it was the last banquet of the year, this does not mark the
end of this successful program. Program staff and YLMHC
administration are working and planning fundraiser events ad asking
its participants for monthly pledges or one time special donations
in order to continue with Super Seniors Y Dance.
The group in El Paso serving during the last
week of October was from Hope Lutheran Church in Des Moines, IA.
This group came gladly to help fix Rosie Lira’s home, a church
member deaconess student who works at Cristo Rey in Cuidad Juarez.
The group fixed the bathroom, put new tile, filled walls and even
provided Rosie with a new shower curtain. The group also made some
repairs in the pastoral home at Cristo Rey. The home got new tile,
wall repair, wall plastering and new paint. This is the first time
that this group came to Ysleta and we hope it will not be the last.
San Pablo Lutheran Church Halloween
Carnival- posted
Nov. 4, 2008
On Friday, October
31, 2008, San Pablo Lutheran Church held a Halloween Carnival to
benefit our church. Project organizers, Ann Hernandez, Martiza
Muñoz and Miguel Muñoz, spent countless hours planning this event
with much success. The event was held from 5:00-10:00pm and many
community residents came to join in on the fun. There were many
game booths such as, "Guess What It Is?," Bean Bag toss, Wet sponge
throwing, "Loteria" and many more. Children would play games and
receive tickets to redeem for prizes. Not only were there games,
but lots of food. Congregation members helped out by manning tables
for nachos, tacos, hot dogs, popcorn and tamales. Thrivent
Financial for Lutherans will kindly match money raised up to
$1,300.00. Thank you to all the volunteers and supporters for
making our event a success.
Pastor Heimer Awarded Doctor of
Divinity: "Dr. Heimer"
- posted October 21,
2008
On
Sunday, October 19, 2008, Pastor Heimer officially became "Dr." when
he was awarded the Doctor of Divinity from Concordia University,
Irvine, California. The presentation was made during a joint
worship service celebrating the Reformation and Zion Lutheran
Church's 110th Anniversary. Concordia's President Jack Preus
and Professor Greg Seltz (Director of the Cross Cultural Ministry
Center) were present to confer the degree. President Preus
said in his remark:
Karl Heimer, with a heart of
service you have reached into dark places of despair, hunger and
poverty to shine the light of Christ, the light of hope that no
darkness can overcome. A passionate and steadfast servant, your
work in mission outreach and church planting has bridged barriers
of culture and language, from you first ministry endeavors in the
Ohio and English districts of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod
to your present work on the U.S./Mexico border for the Rocky
Mountain District. The Ysleta Lutheran Mission, sustained by the
grace of God and the faithful support of many, is a testament to
your vision of a holistic ministry serving the physical,
educational, and spiritual needs of people living in impoverished
border communities in the El Paso/Juarez region and beyond...
Karl Heimer De La Cotera, today we honor you in recognition of the
ingenuity and excellence of your work in education, mission and
ministry. Your work is a testament to God’s gracious provision,
the mark of a true servant of the Gospel, and a light that
reflects “the glory of God in the face of Christ Jesus.”
Upon the recommendation of the faculty and by the authority vested
in me by the Board of Regents of Concordia University Irvine, I
confer upon Karl P. Heimer de la cotera the degree Doctor of
Divinity together with all the rights, responsibilities and honors
associated with it.
We congratulate Pastor Heimer, and we
thank Zion Lutheran Church for hosting a wonderful evening of
celebration. Thank you to everyone who has prayed for,
encouraged, and supported Pastor Heimer through the years.
For the first time ever,
YLM cookbooks are available containing some of the favorite recipies
people encounter during their visits to the border. Also, the
2009 Gift Calendars are being printed and will soon be ready to
ship. Order your copies from the YLM Shop today.
Order Cookbooks, Calendars, and More
On Friday, September 19, Elvira
Viramontes was awarded the NpACT Award for outstanding individuals
among El Paso's non-profit organizations. Only one person of
those nominated receives this award. Elvira began serving at
YLM as a part-time secretary and over the years has taken on more
and more responsibilities. Now she manages the many programs
of YLM that provide aid to the poor of El Paso and Northern Mexico.
That means that in 2007, among other tasks, she oversaw the
distribution of 1.5 million dollars worth of food, clothing,
vitamins, school supplies, volunteer hours, etc.... "It is not
a job for me, but a mission in service to God," Elvira said during
her acceptance of the award at the ceremony held by the El Paso
Non-Profit Enterprise Center. We are very proud and grateful
for all of Elvira's service.
Camila, Elvira, & Jorge Viramontes after reciving NpACT Award
San Pablo held its
annual Vacation Bible School on July 21-24, 2008 from 9:00-12:00pm.
Over 35 children registered for the week-long “Fiesta VBS” and
enjoyed several activities, games, snacks, but most importantly, the
message of our Lord, Jesus Christ. More than 7 teachers and
volunteers were at hand to make our “Fiesta” VBS a huge success.
Topping off our week of fun filled activities was the breaking of a
piñata outside of our church. All
children involved in the VBS were split up into 5 groups ranging in
age from 3 to 17 years of age. The children were broken up into 5
different age groups, 3-5 years of age, 6 to 9 years of age, 10-13
years of age, 14+ years of age.
News Coverage on YLM Colonia
Relief - posted Sept. 2, 2008
YLM has not stopped assisting families
devastated by 2006 floods. On the two-year anniversary of the
flooding, El Paso news stations featured YLM's work. Below
is posted the broadcasts of NBC News Channel 9, KFOX News
Channel 14, KDBC news Channel 4, and ABC news channel 7.
video posted with the permission of copyright
holders
School
Supplies and Backpacks Distributed - 1,459 children receive help -
posted Aug 18, 2008
With school right around the corner, many struggling families in
El Paso and Juarez need help obtaining school supplies for their
children. Since 1998, San Pablo Lutheran Church has distributed
“school kits” (backpacks or bags filled with school supplies) to
needy families in the area. This year school kit distribution
was held on August 9th. Families lined up to collect
school supplies for their children all day long. At San Pablo
Lutheran Church alone, 873 backpacks were distributed. School
kits were also distributed in Mexico by the Lutheran churches
and missions. To date, 586 backpacks have been distributed in
Juarez with more families still needing help. In total, 1,459
were distributed this year. At this time last fall, we
distributed 903 school kits in El Paso and Cuidad Juarez
combined. The increase in number this year is possible because
of the many donations received by YLM, and the work of staff and
numerous volunteers in preparing the donations for distribution.
Additional donations of school supplies are needed for a
mid-year distribution at Christmas time.
Youth get
“Fired-Up” for Christ-
posted August 8, 2008
“Fired-up!” was the saying of the
week as 17 members of the Senior High Youth Group and 9
chaperones from St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Des Peres, MO,
traveled to Ysleta Lutheran Mission July 12-19; it was obvious
that all 26 were indeed on fire for the Lord. Each day, half of
the group worked on building a house while the other half led a
Vacation Bible School. The house was a challenge due to unusual
dimensions, but the crew finished ahead of schedule and was able
to present the homeowner with not only the keys but a Spanish
Bible as well.
VBS at Cristo Rey Lutheran Church
(Juarez) included crafts, puppet shows, Bible lessons, games,
lunch, and songs all centered around the theme of “Odysseys on
the Sea.” One story from VBS illustrates their first day
of VBS: “feeding of the 5000”. They were prepared to feed around
30 children with a few extras but were astounded when attendance
climbed to 76 plus several adults who stayed. However, with some
quick thinking, whole sandwiches became halves, apple halves
became quarters, and everyone received lunch. The daily average
was 70 children (almost double their normal Sunday School
attendance), and although this crew also experienced its share
of surprises, it along with the children took away the lesson
that God protected His people in the Bible just like he cares
for His children today.
All in all, they had a fantastic
experience and formed many new friendships—so much so that most,
if not all, of the youth can’t wait to come back! Erin
Mackenzie, a college-aged chaperone on the trip, is moving to El
Paso in January to be YLM’s Servant Event Coordinator for 18
months. She will be seeking prayer support as well as financial
contributions because her position operates on a strictly
volunteer basis.
Chris Hill a Long
Term Volunteer- posted August 8, 2008
Chris Hill knew he needed a change.
He had reached a point in his life where his career as a chef
was no longer fulfilling, and he felt himself being pulled in
another direction. However, he wasn’t quite sure which
direction that was until this summer, when it became clear to
him what he should do. “God hit me over the head with a
sledgehammer and told me to come to Yslelta,” he laughed. “So I
said okay!”
Formerly a resident of Grand
Junction, Colorado, Chris officially made Ysleta his temporary
home on June 30th. He had been here close to ten times
previously over the years for various reasons (including working
with servant event groups from his home church and cooking for
several "Have A Heart" dinners) and been a great help to the
staff and anyone else he encountered. When asked how long his
current visit might last, he cracked a characteristic grin and
joked, “until they kick me out, at which point I’ll go on the
talk show circuit as the first person to ever be fired from
volunteering.”
If Chris is really waiting to be
fired before he leaves, he may end up spending the rest of his
life at Ysleta. Not only does he allow himself to be used in
whatever way is most needed, he also does his work well.
Lately that work has included everything from “changing light
bulbs and fixing swamp coolers to heading up construction
projects in Juarez and the Sparks colonias.” Also, a good deal
of his time in the last few weeks has been spent researching and
writing requests for grant money from various organizations.
His professional style and knowledge of how things are run has
already earned Ysleta some attention and consideration, which
will hopefully grow into greater things.
As with anyone who volunteers
their time at Ysleta, we are extremely grateful for everything
Chris has been doing and pray that God will continue to bless
his work both here and wherever he finds himself next.
San Pablo Lutheran
Church will be hosting its annual Vacation Bible School the week of
July 21-25, 2008 from 9an-12:00noon. Diane Hinz, a visiting DCE
(and YLM board member), is helping organize this year’s “Fiesta”
VBS. The VBS will combine Bible lessons, games, arts and crafts,
healthy fruit snacks and fun incentives for inviting and bringing
other community children to VBS. At the end of a fun-filled week of
spiritual nourishment and positive social interaction with peers,
the children will receive a commemorative Chile!
Jason Taber (IN), Kristen Lampe (AR), Jessica
Ulrich (KS) and Joshua Elmshaeuser (NE) have dedicated their entire
summer vacations to help YLM servant events. They are coordinating
work projects and making sure that all of the details of each week
run as smoothly as possible. This summer they expect to work with
33 different groups (approximately 450 different people!)
Jason is a Psychology and Theology Major at Hanover
University, Kristen is studying to be a Deaconess through Concordia
University Seward, Jessica is majoring in Creative Writing at Kansas
State University, and Joshua is majoring in Aeronautical &
Astronautical Engineering at Purdue.
The San Lucas congregation
with the help of Javier
Lozano is seeking non-profit status from Mexico or partnership
with an existing Juarez non-profit organization in order begin the
process of opening a school.
Sunday School at
Cristo Rey
- posted July 15, 2008
Rosie Lira, a member of
Cristo Rey Lutheran in Juarez, is now leading its weekly Sunday
School classes. Rosie is receiving scholarships from YLM to attend
training at the Lutheran Hispanic Missionary Institute, which has
given her the confidence and know-how to start teaching. Cristo Rey
is located near downtown Juarez.
Over 1,300
Served by Y-Dance
- posted July 15, 2008
In the last three years 1,319 different adults
throughout El Paso participated in the dance-for-health classes
provided by San Pablo Lutheran Church’s
“Y-Dance” program. With grant funding from the Paso del Norte
Health Foundation, San Pablo was able to hire dance instructors and
provide weekly classes in sites throughout the city.
“It has been such a great way for people to improve
their health, to get out of the house, to meet new people, and have
some fun,” commented Ann Hernandez the program director of Y-Dance.
The grant funding for this program has come to an end, but San Pablo
has chosen to continue classes at one site: the dining hall at YLM.
Participants are contributing money each month to pay for their
teacher.
Y-Dance has been an example of San Pablo’s and YLM’s
effort to provide programs that improve the well-being of
individuals in our community. We want them to know that God loves
them and that the church is God’s instrument of care in this world.
“Super Senior Y-Dance” is a similar dance-for-health
program offered by YLM with grant funding from the Paso del Norte
Heath Foundation. It serves senior citizens and is directed by
Carmen Hernandez. Its grant will also end this year and we are
seeking new ways to continue its classes.
Worship Behind
Bars & Razor Wire
- posted June 24, 2008
By Stephen Heimer
On Saturday, Ann, Joe, and I stood amid 91 men
currently detained in the local Border Patrol Processing Center.
This weekend, we had to gather in an unused barrack because the
lunch hall we normally use was occupied. Most of the men we meet
have been detained there for many months. Ninety-one men came and
sat on the floor, climbed up onto some of the bunk beds, or remained
standing. There were only a few chairs in the barrack. We passed
out Bibles and devotional materials as people entered and began the
service. Without a microphone, the men took turns reading the
scripture lessons in English and Spanish loudly for all to hear:
Psalm, Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel. I gave a message, and we
sang many hymns, accompanied by our guitar and two trumpets. It was
breathtaking to listen to all the men singing and later praying. I
was very moved when we began to pray the Lord’s Prayer together.
God is our Father and he desires that all would hear His Gospel,
have faith in Christ, and be saved. It is truly humbling to
experience being God's instrument, carrying His message of hope and
salvation to those men.
Border
Congregations—Foundations of Lasting Change
- posted June 23, 2008
Rev.
Jesus Astorga has dedicated his summer to the nurturing of families
and layleaders at San Pablo Lutheran Church. He is providing
additional Bible study and lay-leader training throughout the week
as well as visiting people in their homes and preaching on some
Sundays. “I see many wonderful projects here on the border and a
lot of Christians serving God with great effort; however, lasting
impact in these communities will only come as these border
congregations mature in faith and live out their role as the
Church.”
Rev. Astorga was a public school teacher in El Paso
when he began to attend San Pablo Lutheran Church in the 90s.
“I was born here at San Pablo,” Astorga explained. “I came to know
the sweet grace of God here after a life time of searching for and
running from God.” As an adult, Astorga eventually became
congregation president of San Pablo and went on to become an LCMS
pastor through the seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN. He has spent the past
ten years serving as Hispanic Mission Developer for the Indiana
district and oversaw the development of 13 Hispanic missions. Rev. Astorga will return home to Indiana in August, and we are thankful
for all his help as a pastor this summer.
Guadalupe
(Lupe) Celaya, servant event foreman for Santisima Trinidad and its
missions, passed away on June 10th. Lupe died of a heart attack at
the age of 58. Over the past 11 years, Lupe helped servant events
and the members of Santisima Trinidad Lutheran Church in innumerable
ways. “He was my right-hand man in ministry, and I learned a lot
from Lupe,” Pastor Hernandez said. “He honored his wife and walked
to and from church by her side. He was noble, trustworthy, extremely
capable and respectful. He was patient and servant-hearted...a
wonderful guide for groups building the church and homes for the
poor. He was my good friend. There is no one like Lupe.”
Lupe attended Santisima Trinidad Church from
its very beginning. Living across the street from the land
chosen for the church building, he watched as the lot was cleared
and construction began. He met Pastor Ruiz and offered to watch over
the site and construction materials so that nothing would be stolen.
He offered water from his house and allowed groups to use his
bathroom. He helped the groups lay the foundation and build the
church building. After awhile, Lupe became the official caretaker of
the church property and became a communicant member of the church.
Despite everything Lupe did at church, His
family was his main ministry, raising them well and teaching them.
He died doing what he loved, serving God and helping His community.
He is survived by his wife, Josefina, and six children. Guadalupe,
Juan Manuel, Nelson, Arturo, Pedro, and Rocio. Lupe's son,
Nelson, has decided to continue the work of his father at Santisima
Trinidad and YLM servant events.
Summer Servant Event Updates! -
posted June 19, 2008
Now you can read weekly updates
about the work servant event groups are doing at YLM, in the Sparks
Colonia, and across the border. Come back each week and read
the Servant Event Stories.
Mother's
Day Concert Fills Church
- posted June 4, 2008
The church echoed with
the joyful sounds of 50 musicians, who performed in San Pablo's
first ever Mother's Day Concert. Musicians, parents,
church members and visitors packed the pews of San Pablo Lutheran
Church on May 8th. "We couldn't have fit another person in the
building," said Rev. Karl Heimer. Over 200 people attended the
evening event. The performers ranged from beginner students
enrolled in YLM's music classes and beginning mariachi group to the
more refined sounds of Mariachi Isai and Mariachi San Pablo.
The grand finale of the performance involved all 50 musicians who
performed "Las Mañanitas" for the mothers
present and "Alabaré" while children passed
out flowers and mother's day cards. The Gospel was shared
several times during the concert, and all the Moms were thanked and
encouraged in their God-given role in the life of their families.
Urgent Need: Bibles in Spanish & English- posted April 7, 2008
YLM distributes
paperback Bibles as part of its Jail & Detention Center Ministries
as well as the television ministry. There continues to be a
tremendous weekly need for Bibles at the Border Patrol detention
center in El Paso, as new men arrive each week. We are quickly
running out! The jails and detention center require paperback
editions for security reasons. Spanish Bibles
are also needed at San Pablo Lutheran Church and the missions in
Mexico. The Bibles can be new or used; however they should be
in good condition.
If you are able to help,
you may follow the links above, place an order and have them shipped
to us at:
Ysleta Lutheran Mission
Human Care
301 S. Schutz Dr.
El Paso, TX 79907
Please
contact us and
let us know about your order or plans to send Bibles so we can update our need posting and
know that help is on the way. Thank you so much!
New Christian
Mariachi CD from YLM Friends: Mariachi Isai
Many visitors
to YLM a few years ago remember the Elizalde family (father, children, and
nephews) who all enrolled in music classes here and joined Mariachi San Pablo.
They have since formed their own independent family mariachi ministry and
travel widely. We are pleased to make their first professional CD
available for purchase here on our web site.
Buy your CD today!
Together with the University of
Texas, El Paso’s Omega Delta Phi Chapter, we were able to complete
the repairs of the roof and put up new walls inside the Rodriguez
family home. This home was the most affected that we have
served so far. The rain and flooding in 2006 affected interior and
exterior walls, roof, floors, and almost every aspect of this
family’s dwelling.
Ms. Rodriguez sees our intervention
as a blessing for her and her daughter Jasmine. The Love of Our Lord
has truly touched the life of this nine year-old girl. She was
diagnosed with a rare type of leukemia. Her prognosis was not very
promising, but her oncologist tried an innovative treatment that is
still under investigative clinical trial. The treatment and the Our
Lord’s immeasurable mercy has kept Jasmine alive to enjoy seeing her
humble home being repaired.
Michael and Marcia came to Ysleta
from Iowa to help specifically in our colonia project; however while
here, they assisted other projects of YLM as well. They
discovered our project from a posting on the El Paso’s United Way
Volunteer Solutions web page from which we have had a tremendous
response from persons interested in volunteering. Michael and
Marcia were camping in their RV somewhere in Arizona but felt they
could “do something better” and started surfing for opportunities
and stumbled upon our page. They were very excited to come, and they
started working at our sixth colonia home the morning after they
arrived at Ysleta Lutheran Mission.
We continue working at this site with great confidence that Our Lord
will continue sending the volunteers, such as Michael and Marcia, to
assist in achieving our goal to keep spreading His Word and love
through the restoration of these damaged houses.
In Jesus Christ,
Jorge L. Viramontes, project case worker
note: The Colonia Project is
a joint effort of YLM, Lutheran Social Services of the South, and
LCMS World Relief and Human Care-Disaster Response.
St. Paul's Lutheran Completes
15th Trip in 7 Years - posted March 20, 2008
In February 2008, St. Paul's Lutheran
Church, Des Peres, MO, had a team leading a Medical Clinic at San
Lucas and at Cristo Rey. They have been keeping records for their
clinics since 2005, and have had 1872 patient visits. Their February
trip was the 15th trip by St. Paul's since 2001, including youth,
VBS, building, and medical groups.
Music Ministry Students
Perform in Spring Recital - posted March 14,
2008
The boys, girls, teens, men, and
women of YLM's music classes came together on March 13th to perform
in a Spring Recital. Forty students were enrolled in the
violin, guitar, guitarron, trumpet, and voice classes. In
addition several have joined the beginning mariachi ministry:
Mariachi Adelante. Here are some pictures from the past
classes and recital:
Rev. Karl Heimer
Awarded Doctor of Divinity - posted March 2008
We have been informed that the Board
of Regents of Concordia University, Irvine, upon the recommendation
of its faculty, has voted unanimously to bestow on Rev. Karl Heimer
the Doctor of Divinity degree. The award is presented to
individuals who have "made significant contributions in the area of
churchmanship." The award will be formally presented this year
at a date to be determined. In response to the award letter,
Rev. Heimer said, "Like everything in my life, this is a gift from
God." Rev. Heimer has served as a LCMS pastor for 36 years.
The past 26 years have been in El Paso at San Pablo Lutheran Church
and Ysleta Lutheran Mission.
YLM Students Enroll in
Missionary Institute - posted
Feb. 26, 2008
On
January 14, 2008 the Lutheran Hispanic Missionary Institute opened
its doors for classes and seven students connected to ministries of
YLM have enrolled. Students who enrolled in the “Old Testament”
course are studying the scripture and how it relates to worship
today as we praise and glorify our Lord Jesus Christ. The “Worship &
Song” class is teaching students the fundamentals of worship and
liturgy and the importance of each component. As a final project,
students are designing and leading Spanish worship services for San
Pablo Lutheran Church during Lent. Also, every Friday, both classes
meet together to take exams and to complete a study on conflict
resolution. The students are excited to use this knowledge in
practical ways as they serve at YLM and the mission churches. By
learning more about God and what He’s done from the beginning of
time, they are becoming more comfortable teaching the Bible to
children, youth, and adults. God will use these students in a
marvelous new way as they continue to serve Him.
Photos from the Lutheran Hispanic Missionary
Institute dedication on January 4th:
Making a Building
into a CHURCH - posted Feb.
26, 2008
In December, St. Paul Lutheran from Caro, Michigan
brought 13 people to continue work on the new sanctuary in Anapra.
The LCMS Servant Event website is utilized by this group to include
people from other congregations. The group, who stayed in Anapra,
completed the wiring in the new sanctuary, insulated the ceiling and
installed drywall. The drywall was taped, textured and painted. A
platform was built for the altar as well as kneelers and communion
rails. What an accomplishment in one week! This is the same group
who put the roof on the new sanctuary this past May. Thanks to
this group and other groups who have worked on the project the past
few months, the structure looks like a sanctuary instead of just
another building. Several other projects remain to be done at the
mission campus in Anapra. Other buildings need repair & up keep as
well as small details that need to be completed to personalize this
worship space for the congregation.
Delivering More
Aid than Ever - posted Feb.
26, 2008
The
2007 Christmas outreach included the communities surrounding
Santisima Trinidad, San Francisco, San Marcos, Martin Lutero, Cristo
Rey, San Lucas and San Pablo Lutheran Church. 1138 toys, 433 jackets
and 504 health kits were given to those in need. In the brisk
December cold, 1,650 blankets were distributed and 1,825 food
baskets were given out in El Paso and Mexico. The Christmas
toy distribution was larger than ever and it was difficult to obtain
the necessary permits to transport donations into Mexico. Ultimately
the permits were acquired and all the toys, jackets, health kits and
blankets were delivered. This year, for the first time, UPS
employees sponsored Ysleta with toys for 101 children. They were
inspired by the many boxes of toys they were delivering from
churches to YLM. San Pablo Lutheran church members provided 75 toys,
employees from SAM Corps (a construction company) sponsored 36
children, and other individuals sponsored 68 children. What a
blessing! Fundacion Lucerna received 4 pallets of food
including enchilada sauce, chile, raisins and jalapenos. Sertoma
International (in Juarez) received 200 blankets, 42 hospital beds,
medical equipment, 10 boxes of disposable medical supplies, 15 boxes
of medications, 1 pallet of notebooks, 5 boxes of book bags, and 6
pairs of crutches.
Each month, the mariachi ministry of YLM makes it a
priority to visit nursing homes, and the residences of people who
would benefit from a special reminder of God’s love and grace. In
January, the mariachi visited the homes of two women to sing hymns
and some popular songs to them. One elderly woman was especially in
despair due to her illness and some deaths in her family. She
listened to the music from her bed near the front window of her home
as the mariachi singers came and serenaded her. Pastor Heimer stood
at her bedside, visited with her, prayed, and served her communion
at the end of the serenade. It was a moment of joy and assurance of
God's love. She passed away two days later and the mariachi group
played at her funeral at San Pablo Lutheran Church. It is beautiful
to see how God used His people as His voice of love and mercy for
Mrs. Rosas, her family, and neighbors. In times of struggle and
times of peace, these serenades from the mariachi group help remind
people that every day is a gift from God.
Detained by the Border
Patrol - posted Feb. 26,
2008
“Do you have a Spanish Bible that I can take with
me when they send me back to El Salvador?”
This question was asked after a worship service held at the U.S.
Border Patrol detainment center in El Paso. January 5th was the
first Saturday that Pastor Heimer and his son Stephen entered the
secure facility to lead a group of 60 men in weekly worship. The
Saturday worship service is held in both English and Spanish. After
each service, men return to their barracks and are allowed to keep
the song sheets, printed devotions, and Bibles we provide for their
daily use. People detained by the Immigration and Naturalization
Service are brought to this holding center from throughout the U.S.
to await trial and possible deportation. Men, women, and children
are sometimes held there for more than a year as they await their
court dates. Pastor Heimer commented on the services: “We go and
feed these men God’s Word. We have met men from Africa, China,
Mexico, and Latin America who attend. Perhaps God will use these
times of worship to plant seeds of faith and passion for Christ that
will reach others in their home countries.”
Stephen and Krysia Heimer’s first child, a son,
“Jaden Timothy” was born on February 4th. (6lb13.9oz) We praise God
for the new addition He has given to the family of these dedicated
staff of YLM. Stephen continues his pastoral studies through the
Cross Cultural Ministry Center and is serving as a vicar at San
Pablo Lutheran Church.
What Do Basketball &
Building Houses Have in Common?
- posted Feb. 26, 2008
The
answer is absolutely nothing unless you are part of the Mayer
Lutheran High School Mission Team. Mayer Lutheran H.S. brought 43
people, mainly high school students, to work on construction
projects in Anapra. Two homes were built on this trip. They were not
able to complete the stucco, but the materials were purchased for
the families to complete the work. In addition to construction, this
mission group did something very unique. They held a basketball
clinic for the neighborhood children. Thirty children showed up for
the clinic. Cory Curran, clinic leader, said it was a joy to watch
Lay Pastor Lozano with the kids because “He’s got a little game in
him.” Mayer Lutheran H.S. is establishing a long-term relationship
with the San Lucas Mission congregation as this is their third year
of serving. They are looking for ways to help the mission open a
school in Anapra.
On
Sunday, October 19, 2008, Pastor Heimer officially became "Dr." when
he was awarded the Doctor of Divinity from Concordia University,
Irvine, California. The presentation was made during a joint
worship service celebrating the Reformation and Zion Lutheran
Church's 110th Anniversary. Concordia's President Jack Preus
and Professor Greg Seltz (Director of the Cross Cultural Ministry
Center) were present to confer the degree. President Preus
said in his remark:
to
your vision of a holistic ministry serving the physical,
educational, and spiritual needs of people living in impoverished
border communities in the El Paso/Juarez region and beyond... 
Rev.
Jesus Astorga has dedicated his summer to the nurturing of families
and layleaders at 
Guadalupe
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On
January 14, 2008 the Lutheran Hispanic Missionary Institute opened
its doors for classes and seven students connected to ministries of
YLM have enrolled. Students who enrolled in the “Old Testament”
course are studying the scripture and how it relates to worship
today as we praise and glorify our Lord Jesus Christ. The “Worship &
Song” class is teaching students the fundamentals of worship and
liturgy and the importance of each component. As a final project,
students are designing and leading Spanish worship services for San
Pablo Lutheran Church during Lent. Also, every Friday, both classes
meet together to take exams and to complete a study on conflict
resolution. The students are excited to use this knowledge in
practical ways as they serve at YLM and the mission churches. By
learning more about God and what He’s done from the beginning of
time, they are becoming more comfortable teaching the Bible to
children, youth, and adults. God will use these students in a
marvelous new way as they continue to serve Him. 
The
2007 Christmas outreach included the communities surrounding
Santisima Trinidad, San Francisco, San Marcos, Martin Lutero, Cristo
Rey, San Lucas and San Pablo Lutheran Church. 1138 toys, 433 jackets
and 504 health kits were given to those in need. In the brisk
December cold, 1,650 blankets were distributed and 1,825 food
baskets were given out in El Paso and Mexico. The Christmas
toy distribution was larger than ever and it was difficult to obtain
the necessary permits to transport donations into Mexico. Ultimately
the permits were acquired and all the toys, jackets, health kits and
blankets were delivered. This year, for the first time, UPS
employees sponsored Ysleta with toys for 101 children. They were
inspired by the many boxes of toys they were delivering from
churches to YLM. San Pablo Lutheran church members provided 75 toys,
employees from SAM Corps (a construction company) sponsored 36
children, and other individuals sponsored 68 children. What a
blessing! Fundacion Lucerna received 4 pallets of food
including enchilada sauce, chile, raisins and jalapenos. Sertoma
International (in Juarez) received 200 blankets, 42 hospital beds,
medical equipment, 10 boxes of disposable medical supplies, 15 boxes
of medications, 1 pallet of notebooks, 5 boxes of book bags, and 6
pairs of crutches.
- posted Feb. 26, 2008
The
answer is absolutely nothing unless you are part of the Mayer
Lutheran High School Mission Team. Mayer Lutheran H.S. brought 43
people, mainly high school students, to work on construction
projects in Anapra. Two homes were built on this trip. They were not
able to complete the stucco, but the materials were purchased for
the families to complete the work. In addition to construction, this
mission group did something very unique. They held a basketball
clinic for the neighborhood children. Thirty children showed up for
the clinic. Cory Curran, clinic leader, said it was a joy to watch
Lay Pastor Lozano with the kids because “He’s got a little game in
him.” Mayer Lutheran H.S. is establishing a long-term relationship
with the San Lucas Mission congregation as this is their third year
of serving. They are looking for ways to help the mission open a
school in Anapra.