Building Bridges of Faith: Visitors from Guadalajara Arrive December 7

The Grand Canyon Synod will welcome Keila and Kelian Reyes from Guadalajara, Mexico, December 7–15, 2026, as representatives of our companion church, the Iglesia Luterana Mexicana (ILM). Congregations, particularly those in the Phoenix area, are invited to help make their visit a meaningful opportunity for fellowship, cultural exchange, and growing together in faith.

The visit grew out of a Grand Canyon Synod delegation's trip to Mexico in May, which included a stop at Faith Lutheran Church in Guadalajara. There, synod representatives met Keila and Kelian, two siblings actively involved in their congregation whose faith is central to their family life.

Keila, 22, is a pre-med student who previously visited the Northwest Ohio Synod, another international partner of the ILM. Kelian, 16, is a high school student interested in fashion design. This December, the siblings will have an opportunity to experience the Grand Canyon Synod and connect with Lutheran communities across our region.

At a time when travel and visa restrictions create barriers to international exchange, their visit is a particularly meaningful blessing. It offers an opportunity to strengthen relationships across borders, celebrate our shared faith in Christ, and learn from one another as members of the global Lutheran church.

Congregations are encouraged to welcome Keila and Kelian! If your congregation has a worship service, gathering, or special event during December 7–15 that might be appropriate for their visit, please contact Pastor Shari Bernau at pastorshari@lwlcaz.org.

Together, we can extend a warm welcome and deepen our partnership with our Lutheran siblings in Mexico.