Mariachi San Pablo (MSP), part of Adelante Ministries of Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM), brought vibrant music, heartfelt witness, and a unique cultural expression of faith to this year’s Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) Youth Gathering in New Orleans. It was an unforgettable opportunity—one that almost didn’t happen.
For months, the now 11-member group rehearsed weekly, with four new members quickly mastering the repertoire. With four of the musicians being Mexican nationals, travel permits were secured for them to join the team in Louisiana. Once in New Orleans, MSP was joined by three veteran members of Mariachi San Pablo, creating a powerful group of 15 musicians.
Together, they shared the Gospel mariachi-style in countless ways—presenting lively music at the close of three Bible Studies with over 500 youth in attendance, as well as filling the massive Interactive Activities Hall with praise for the three days of the Youth Gathering.
The group moved throughout the exhibit space—spanning half of the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center—playing beloved hymns, joyful mariachi favorites, and instrumental pieces that drew people in.
Thousands of youths and adult leaders followed them around the Hall, recording videos, snapping photos, singing along and even dancing with joy to the rhythm of the guitars! Their joyful presence and bold witness made a lasting impression on those who attended.
One special invitation brought them to the Orphan Grain Train exhibit, where MSP used OGT’s sound system to project their voices powerfully throughout the area. The response was overwhelming—applause, laughter, and heartfelt conversations about faith and music flowed after every performance.
From a year-long search for a single trumpet player to the joyful echoes of 15 musicians proclaiming Christ through mariachi music, Mariachi San Pablo’s journey to the LCMS Youth Gathering is a beautiful testimony to God’s provision, perfect timing, and the power of stepping out in faith.
