Global Mission Close to Home: Building Relationships with Lutheran Partners in Mexico
Did you know that Mexico is one of the Grand Canyon Synod’s global ministry partners?
During the 2026 Synod Assembly, members of the Grand Canyon Synod shared a video update as part of the Bishop and Synod Council Report highlighting a growing relationship with the Iglesia Luterana Mexicana (ILM, or Mexican Lutheran Church) and ministry partners just across the border.
On May 3, six representatives from the Grand Canyon Synod traveled to Mexico City, joining leaders from the Northwest Ohio Synod to listen, learn, and witness God’s work already unfolding through ministries across Mexico. The visit included conversations with organizations and ministries such as AMEXTRA, migrant shelters, Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM), AMMPARO, and leaders of the Mexican Lutheran Church.
What participants encountered were stories of transformation, courage, innovation, deep faith, and a strong sense of call. Through ministries serving migrants, young adults, congregations, and communities, synod leaders experienced firsthand how relationships rooted in accompaniment and mutual learning can strengthen the church on both sides of the border.
“These newly forming relationships reminded us that together we serve an amazing God,” shared synod leaders in the report. “And God may be opening even more possibilities for ministry together.”
The partnership is already beginning to grow in tangible ways. In December, the synod hopes to welcome two young adults from Faith Lutheran Church in Guadalajara for a week-long visit to the Grand Canyon Synod. Then, in February 2027, two pastors from our synod have been invited to participate in the Annual Assembly of the Mexican Lutheran Church.
While these efforts are still in their early stages, leaders believe this partnership holds meaningful promise for shared ministry, learning, and accompaniment in the years ahead.
And if you ever find yourself traveling to Guadalajara, know this: Faith Lutheran Church and Ahualulco Lutheran Church—along with Pastor Presidente Roberto Trejo-Haagar, Pastor Ari Trejo-Haagar, and their families—want Grand Canyon Synod members to know they will be welcomed with open arms as part of one Lutheran family in Christ.
Watch the video from the Bishop and Synod Council Report to learn more about this growing partnership and the possibilities ahead.