It was a week overflowing with God’s surprises, blessings, and mission work accomplished through Bethel Lutheran Church from Edmonton, Alberta. Twenty-nine Canadians—19 high school youth and 10 leaders, many of them young adults—crossed the border with one purpose: to share the love of Jesus. For many, this was their first Servant Event with Ysleta Lutheran Mission in El Paso, TX, and what they accomplished in His name was remarkable.
The team’s efforts stretched across both sides of the border. In Ciudad Juárez, they helped build a brand-new home in Lomas de Poleo, high on the mesas above Anapra. With seasoned leaders guiding eager first-timers, it was not only a construction project but also an opportunity to form future servant leaders, strengthen faith, and gain life skills that will carry on long after the trip.
Another highlight was the first-ever Sports and Bible Camp hosted by Bethel at Iglesia Luterana de La Santa Biblia. For four days, local children and Canadian youth came together through the universal language of play and the deeper bond of Christian love. The setting itself was breathtaking—perched on a hilltop overlooking Mexico, Texas, and New Mexico with Cristo Rey in the distance. It was a true mountaintop moment, a glimpse of heaven as nations came together, barriers fell away, and joy in Christ filled the air.
Back at YLM’s campus, others on the team pitched in to support the mission’s 4.2 acres. Whether working on projects, helping with upkeep, or assisting with ministries, their service reminded everyone that this mission—just one mile from the border—belongs to all who come. It becomes Your Lutheran Mission.
And before heading home, the team joined in YLM’s Saturday Food Distribution, then cleaned the dorms and vehicles to prepare for the next group—living out the truth that this mission is “ours” together. The Bethel Servant Event mission team was also the first team to enjoy the newly installed windows and air conditioning in the Servant Event dorms—a small but joyful blessing that made their stay even more memorable.
To our brothers and sisters from Bethel: thank you. Your faith, energy, and love for Christ continue to bless YLM and the communities we serve. For those youth stepping into new chapters after graduation—consider forming a Young Adults Servant Event! The border is always open for you, and we can’t wait to see you again next year.
Give us a call at (915) 858-2588 or send an email to luz.soto@ylm.org to get more information on
bringing down a Servant Event Mission Team to YLM!
