Inspired by a guest lecture on ‘Border Stories’ by Bishop Robert Schnase at Texas State last fall, a group of students from the United Campus Ministry at Texas State spent their spring break in Eagle Pass with Mission: Border Hope. 

Students repaired flood-damaged homes as they tackled dry walling, replaced damaged wood, installed doors, and painted. After a full day of home repairs, students volunteered with the local elementary afterschool program. Texas State education students developed and led literacy activities. In addition to reading, the college students enjoyed playing games with the elementary children.

The Texas State students led daily worship and devotionals throughout the week, including a closing worship along the border at the Rio Grande River. While a few college students are seasoned mission trip veterans, this was the first mission trip for several students–including a new baptized Texas State student. One student plans to return to Eagle Pass this summer to continue helping the children.

The UCM mission trip allowed each student to practice leadership, to grow in Christian faith, and to build new relationships with the people of Eagle Pass and the elementary students of Kids Klub afterschool, as well as with each other. The future of the church is in amazing hands! 

The United Campus Ministry at Texas State is grateful for each young adult that participated, the mission trip leadership of Rev. Suzette Thorpe Johnson, the ministry partnership with Rev. Becky Baxter Ballou and Mission: Border Hope, mission trip grant support of the Hill Country District of the United Methodist Church, and the donated construction materials from McCoy’s Building Supply.

More photos of the Spring Break Border Mission Trip are available at facebook.com/UCMtxstate.

Written by Rev. Todd Salmi