March News: Responding to the flood

Flooding & Relief Efforts

Last week, the Rio Grande Valley in Texas and along the border in Reynosa, Mexico, experienced record-breaking rainfall, receiving over six months’ worth of rain in less than two days. Thankfully, everyone is safe; the damage in Reynosa was extensive, but it was only to material belongings.

Faith Ministry has responded to some of the areas most affected by the flood in Reynosa, delivering food packages, cleaning supplies, and clothing donations, and we will continue to identify needs in these areas. As you can see in the photos below, the water levels are still high, and we know that more needs will reveal themselves as the water subsides. We will continue to remain a presence in these areas to provide assistance where we can.

During our relief efforts, we heard story after story of the desperation each family felt on Thursday as the rain came down and the water levels rose. As their children clung tight, they watched water seep into their houses, rushing to try and save as many of their belongings as possible.

Above all, though, the families we visited talked about the gratitude they felt that the only things they lost were material possessions, that their families were safe during the storm. They spoke of the hope they had in God.

More than anything, the families we visited asked for prayers. Please join us in praying for the water to go down, for clear weather, and for safety and security for these families.

Many of you have asked the best way to help, and in addition to praying, you can also donate to Faith Ministry either online (faithministry.org/give) or sending a check payable to Faith Ministry to PO Box 756, McAllen, TX 78505. Indicating “where it is needed most” with your donation allows us to use the funding where it is most needed in the community.

Thank you to all who have been supporting our flood relief efforts!

Mission Work Group

This month, we hosted a mission work group from University Presbyterian in Austin, TX. They built a house for a family in need, poured a roof to complete another house, delivered grocery packages, and helped with our children’s nutrition program. Most importantly, they shared and showed the love of God to one another with our brothers and sisters in Mexico, building lasting friendships.

We are currently scheduling teams for 2025! Check out our calendar online to find a week that works for your team and get in touch with Colleen to book.

Maintenance in Miguel Alemán

Earlier this month, our staff and volunteers in Miguel Alemán focused on renovations and maintenance in various areas—specifically in the Miguel Alemán complex, the storage area, and the church building. Our staff has been working hard to keep everything up and running. Without their love and effort, this ministry simply wouldn’t be the same.

Prayer Requests

We believe in the power of prayer, so please join us in praying for:

The families and communities affected by the flooding this month both in the U.S. and in Mexico
PRAISE! Marisela, our cook and caretaker in Reynosa, is doing much better following some health issues last month.
The health of our staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, and friends around the world

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Romans 12:12

In Case You Missed It

We’d like to introduce you to our newest Board member, Diane!

Diane took her first mission trip to Faith Ministry in 2000 with her church, First Presbyterian Church Fayetteville, NC. She is still leading trips from the same church to this day and joined our Board in January. She has developed deep friendships with members of our staff and the community over the years and has a passion for serving in Mexico, especially catching empty buckets on roof day!

Why does she feel called to serve on the Board? “After 18+ mission trips to Reynosa, I want to be part of ensuring this ministry continues for my children (and
future grandchildren).”

Thank you, Diane, for taking the leap to join the Board! We are excited for all the ways God will continue to use you in this ministry.