In June, Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM) traveled to Omaha, NE, for the LWML National Convention—and used the opportunity to strengthen ties with Peace Lutheran Church in Grand Island. The congregation’s leaders have been steadily working to build a partnership with YLM, and when YLM offered to come alongside to assist with that desire, Rev. Justin Bangert quickly invited representatives to join Peace Lutheran on Sunday morning.
Peace Lutheran has been taking intentional steps forward. Last year, they sent a Servant Event team of four men who rolled up their sleeves to serve families in need stateside and complete vital projects on the YLM campus. This year, the congregation moved further by adding YLM to their Missions’ budget. With Missions Coordinator leadership and Pastor Bangert’s encouragement, Peace Lutheran now prepares to send a larger mission team in 2026, eager to extend Christ’s love to the borderlands.
Pastor Bangert leads with experience. During his time at Holy Trinity Lutheran in Edmond, OK, he joined two Servant Event mission teams with YLM.
He saw firsthand how God transforms lives through service—both in those served and those serving. Now, he challenges his new congregation to step into that same life-changing mission.
The Sunday partnership energized everyone involved.
YLM Communications Specialist, Luz Soto, delivered the Children’s Message at all four worship services, engaging young disciples in Christ’s call to serve. YLM Interim Executive Director, Karla Gonzalez, thanked the congregation directly for their support, calling them to deepen their involvement with YLM’s mission along the U.S.–Mexico border.
During Bible Class Hour, Karla and Luz laid out YLM’s story with conviction—sharing its history, its purpose, and the powerful ways God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary kingdom work. Their words invited Peace Lutheran members not just to learn about YLM, but to join in God’s mission with hands and hearts ready to act.
YLM walks forward with high expectations. Partnerships like the one with Peace Lutheran drive the mission forward, multiplying impact on the border and in the congregations that serve. With God leading, these efforts do more than meet needs—they ignite faith, strengthen communities, and open doors for the Gospel.
Give us a call at (915) 858-2588 for information on bringing YLM to present at your church!
