We flew into El Paso, TX, and the next morning crossed the border on foot without difficulty. A short taxi ride from downtown Juarez brought us to our hotel where we later met with Pastor Olvera and his family and went out for to eat at a local taco restaurant.
Over the next few days we were blessed to share meals, conversation, and ministry discussions, and Gospel encouragement. On Saturday afternoon we met at the church and together we removed a small interior wall to expand the worship space. When the work was finished, we made a trip to the local Sam's Club to purchase a bookshelf for the church to better equip the room for future classes.
Sunday morning brought the highlight of the trip as the congregation gathered in their new worship facility. The newly leased storefront is near a main commercial road and located in the same neighborhood where Pastor Olvera and his family live. Pastor Daub preached in English while Pastor Olvera translated, aided by an AI-generated translation of the sermon that Tim had prepared in advance. Seventeen people were present, including a few first-time visitors. One new couple told Pastor Olvera they were not convinced that the church they had been attending was teaching the truth and when they noticed the banner hanging above the church entrance, they decided to come. They stayed and visited with Pastor Olvera for quite awhile. He later told us they planned to return the following Sunday and hope to join the congregation. Praise the Lord!!
It was a joy to worship and visit with the Olvera family, the members of the congregation, and the visitors the Lord gathered in His saving name. This worship service marked somewhat of a fresh start for regular public worship in the new facility. The joy in Pastor Olvera's face was hard to miss!
The congregation is small, yet the Lord is at work. The truths of God's saving Word are being faithfully preached and plans are in place to begin new member classes and youth Bible studies on Saturdays.
Late Sunday afternoon we made our way over the bridge and back to El Paso so we could catch our flights home on Monday.
We left Juarez grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Pastor Olvera, his wonderful wife and family, and the members of the congregation he serves.
