Reaching Communities in Mexico Through Holistic Outreach
From their office in one of the world’s most populated cities (Mexico City), staff and volunteers from LHM–Mexico engage local communities with Christ’s message of hope in numerous ways. Two of its most successful programs are holistic outreach activities that attend to people’s physical and emotional needs as well as their spiritual needs.
In the city of Matamoros, on the United States border, the BREAD program has strengthened the mission and engagement of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church under Pastor Omar Garza, the new president of the Mexican Synod. With the support of 18 volunteers, an average of 150 people are served a weekly meal that is part of a two-hour program including Bible study, fellowship, prayer, and the sharing of LHM materials. Individuals also receive a printed Bible message that they can take home to share the Good News with their friends and family. LHM’s support of this program contributes to the growth of the congregation and its positive impact on the Matamoros community.
Brigada Médica is a holistic health outreach program that serves different communities by offering basic services such as free dental cleanings, haircuts, student medical certificates, and more. Since students throughout the country are required to present a health certificate at the beginning of each school year, this program creates valuable opportunities for outreach and follow-up connections with students and their families. Many volunteers participate, including doctors, nurses, dentists, and stylists. Through their dedication, LHM–Mexico is grateful to serve people’s needs while also sharing the love of God in Christ through printed materials and personal interactions.
During visits to churches throughout the country, the LHM team spends a week in each location, implementing the Brigada Médica program alongside special outreach activities supported by local volunteers. These efforts include evangelism training workshops that train congregation members in effective faith-sharing practices, as well as “summer-style” programs for children who attend school for only half a day. Children and parents from the community are invited to a special closing service at the church on Sunday, helping connect them with church members and the pastor. Many participants of Brigada Médica become LHM volunteers and ambassadors within their congregations. A recent seminar under the theme “Christian Attitudes” at San Pedro Congregation in Mexico City focused on hospitality, reception, and warmly welcoming both visitors and current members.