Moments That Matter in Nuevo Laredo

Anna had recently given her life to Christ, but it was clear she was still carrying a lot with her. As our team listened to her story in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, they didn’t rush past it or shy away from the hard parts. Instead, they gathered around her, prayed with her, offered food, and helped connect her to the local church. That moment captured the heart of this trip. Ordinary people showing up, stepping outside their comfort zones, and loving someone right where she was.

Earlier this December, a team from Five Lakes Church traveled to Nuevo Laredo to share the Gospel in creative and practical ways. Our team partnered with local ministry leaders to serve families and point people toward lasting community.

The primary focus of the trip was presenting the Gospel through drama, telling the story of Jesus from His birth to His death and resurrection. Alongside the performances, the team helped bless families by giving each child a gift and providing food packages for parents. These simple acts opened the door for meaningful conversations, prayer, and connection.

Throughout the week, God was at work in powerful ways. As our team traveled with a group from Houston, many noticed how God paired people together with shared experiences and similar stories. Team members stretched beyond what felt comfortable, praying through translators, praying for others, and learning how to share their faith in real time. It became a hands-on discipleship experience that changed how many approached Scripture and ministry.

One of the biggest surprises was how quickly the community responded. With very little promotion, more than 500 people showed up for the outreach festivals. After driving through the neighborhood for less than an hour announcing the event over a speaker and microphone, the whole area turned out. The team was also struck by the level of poverty in the region, including the lack of consistent city services, which deepened their compassion for the people they served.

By the end of the trip, the team had ministered to more than 900 people, and over 800 expressed interest in getting connected to a local church! Through our partnership with Imagine Leaders, we work alongside Victorious Christian Harvesters, led by Dave and Donna Blanchard. Each outreach intentionally connected people to local churches and pastors, helping ensure ongoing support and discipleship.

This Mexico missions trip is a great first step into global missions. It offers the chance to experience a new culture, serve others, get a little uncomfortable, and still be home in just three to four days with a fresh perspective on what God is doing around the world.

Looking ahead, plans are already underway for a trip to Cambodia this summer and a possible trip to Ghana. We also look forward to returning to Mexico in 2027.

Please continue to pray for those who made decisions to follow Christ, that they would stay connected to the local church and continue growing in their faith.

Interested in learning more about Outreach opportunities like this?