The Power of Mentorship and Internships

I remember when I was in seminary as a young adult, I was trying to find my place in the community and figure out how God was calling me to serve in the church. I wondered multiple times whether my other friends were more qualified or blessed with more gifts and talents. I encountered people who guided me, prayed, and offered encouragement like Moses did to Joshua in Deuteronomy 31:1-8. When I interned at San Antonio St. Paul UMC, the community mentored me. I found church members who showed me how to tie ties and dress in suits; others checked up on me over a meal and spent hours listening to me. Others gave me feedback when I did something beyond my comfort zone. I thank so many people who trusted God and were able to see what I did not see in myself. 

The Board of Ordained Ministry and the Young People Ministry of the Rio Texas Conference are trying to create a community that mentors and serves as a sounding board for college students who might be discerning—or wondering what a pastor or deacon does and how God is calling them to serve His kingdom. In the summer of 2021, four students from Huston Tillotson University spent ten weeks in local churches around the Austin-area. The program wanted to equip students to explore their call into ministry. Local churches and pastors hosted these students for ten weeks. Once the internship was over, they received positive feedback from students, pastors, and the congregation. Since that year, the program has expanded.

Last summer, we had students at Edinburg El Buen Pastor UMC and Austin Emanuel UMC. Pastor Robert—from El Buen Pastor UMC—shared it was not easy, but it was a learning opportunity for him and his intern. The congregation loved their college-aged intern, and the choir welcomed him with open arms once they learned he had a singing voice. The intern had the opportunity to preach as well.

Recently, I had the chance to preach at Austin Emanuel UMC. Once the service ended, a few families asked me if I knew their intern as the director of Young People’s ministry. They asked me to tell their former intern they were praying for him. The parishioners shared how much they learned from him. They told me a few good stories about him. They thanked God as they discovered he is attending seminary at Perkins School of Theology.

We will continue to improve this program and search for more students to build a community that mentors them in discerning their call. We have identified six churches and opened the 2025 registration process for students. Any college student who has finished their first year and is interested in exploring their call to ordained ministry will spend ten weeks in a local church to serve as associate pastor. They will receive a stipend of $5,000 for the ten weeks.

First and foremost, we ask for your prayers for students and others discerning their call. We invite you to mentor youth and young adults in your community.

Suppose you know of a student who is in college and has expressed interest in ordained ministry, please give them the application and invite them to apply. Registration ends on February 17. If you have a question or need an application, email us.

Written by Rev. Miguel Padilla

Blessing Multitudes through Scholarships

A few Sundays ago, John 6:1-13 was read in many faith congregations. It is the story of the multiplication of two fishes and five barley loaves offered by a child to feed five thousand men, not counting the women or children. I can’t picture how this miracle happens, and what the disciple must have said after seeing people sitting and chatting after a great meal. I can only thank God for the abundant blessings He has given His people. 

A few months back, Rio Texas received nine scholarship applications from students across the Conference. In addition to recommendations, signatures, and grades; the applications contained a brief statement about each person’s dreams. Each student described how they serve their community and how the scholarship will help them reach their goals. It reminds me of the child stepping forward and offering what he had, not knowing how God would use it to bless a multitude.

The Scholarship Committee prayed and discerned who would receive the four $500 scholarships. The common expression among the members was that if Rio Texas had enough scholarship funds, the Conference would give more significantly to everyone. It was an exercise of trust in God, and every local church will help us support more students in the future.

This year's Albert & Nancy Wilson Scholarship recipients are Rylan Wayne Marak, FUMC Hallettsville; Leah Heikes, FUMC McAllen; Juliana L Zamora, El Mesias UMC Floresville; and Zaye Louise Beadle, Westlake UMC.

I wonder if the disciples were without words as I am when God’s blessing starts flowing. I received a thank you card from Rylan.

Then, an email from Zaya’s home church, Westlake UMC, describes the Sunday service the whole church experienced when Zaya received the scholarship,“When one of our youths excels in these areas, everyone is deeply moved. The entire body of Christ was uplifted and joined to recognize and applaud Zaye.”

“I do not doubt that Zaye experienced the warmth and love of her church family when presented with the award, and I believe that the experience of positive regard her church demonstrated will live long in her memory. The experience on Sunday morning likely influenced other children and youth in the assembly who, perhaps, caught a glimpse of a future for themselves. I also believe the church family sensed a communal need to continue promoting children and youth because of the hopeful outcomes it can have on their personal, emotional, and spiritual growth. WUMC is forever grateful for the work of the scholarship team and Rio Texas Conference,” said Rev Margot Ann Perez-Green.

All I can do is praise God, first and foremost. I also praise all of you faithful servants who—trusting God—participate in Student Sunday, contribute directly to the Albert & Nacy Wilson Scholarship, or invest time in the lives of youth with the hope that God will multiply what we do together in His name. Join me in congratulating the students mentioned. If you want to learn more about how you, your family, or your church can amplify the Rio Texas scholarship, contact Mrs. Eve Albert.

Written by Rev. Miguel Padilla

Making New Old Friends at Mid-Winters

I love Puzzles. I am drawn to them because every piece is similar and different at the same time. I must sit and contemplate multiple times with the piece that I am so sure fits in a particular place is the right one. Each piece plays a critical part in the whole picture. 

The Rio Texas Conference hosted three Mid-Winters in the first two months of 2024. The first one was the Capital District on January 12 – 14.  The theme was “God Seeks after your heart and Know your worth.” On February 16 – 18, Las Misiones and Coastal Bend/El Valle hosted their camp. Las Misiones had theirs at Twin Oaks, Buda, TX. Their theme was “Jesuspalooza,” celebrating Jesus and his redemptive love for all of us. He frees us, and now we can help others to be free by sharing Jesus’ love. Coastal Bend/El Valle gathered at Camp Zephyr, Sandia TX. Their theme was “Under Pressure,” with the weight of fulfilling the expectations from family, school, friends, and sports (and our own expectations)—being lifted up by Jesus, who offers his love and his hope to live an abundant life in him. 

I give thanks to God and celebrate the leadership of Rev. Ryan Jensen in Capital District, Isabella Lopez in Las Misiones, and Pastor Philip Higginbotham/ Pastor Todd Johns in Coastal Bend/El Valle District, who gather and coordinate the gifts of many youth pastors and Pastors to have a wonderful camp in their respective Districts. I celebrate that in all three camps, new churches experienced hospitality and love from leaders and students. I was filled with joy when I sat with churches participating for the first time after the pandemic. New churches from our conference reconnected with the district and now are planning to be part of future summer camps. I celebrate the multiple gifts that came to the table when youth from various-sized congregations came to pray, play, and make new friends—as if the puzzle is revealing the work of God in our midst.  

We need all the pieces to admire the beauty we usher when all gather to praise God and offer our gifts. I am filled with joy and expectation to see what else God will reveal in our conference as the Youth connect and learn from one another. For more pictures, you can visit The Rio Texas Conference Facebook to see each camp’s pictures. 

Facing the Future

The holiday season is here: Thanksgiving, Advent, and Christmas. Many people are traveling from one corner of the country to another. Many times, this creates stress and anxiety. People get so worried preparing for the holidays. Instead of a time to be and connect with one another, Christmastime becomes a busy time.

The General Council Of Religion and Race (GCORR) perceives we are living in a similar situation across our denomination, and I see this too. This is because multiple conferences are in the process of disaffiliation. Others are trying to forecast what will happen at General Conference, Jurisdictional Conference, and Annual Conference. Many local churches are figuring out the new normal. We are letting ourselves be consumed by speculations and uncertainty. This is multiplying among pastors or congregations with cross-cultural appointments. I am glad GCORR put Facing the Future 2023 together. I enjoyed this meeting as it offered multiple opportunities to Being, Belonging and Becoming. 

I arrived early in the morning on November 14 to Atlanta International Airport. I connected with diverse pastors from other conferences. The GCORR did not offer transportation, but a few pastors created a chat to connect with others before the event. We carpooled and shared some lunch together to get to know one another. We shared bread and personal stories. I learned that one pastor from Haiti was creating an inner-city hub for a gentrified neighborhood. They are hosting multiple services for poor and affluent people to connect and belong. Another pastor from Korea was serving a two-point charge appointment—one church is an African American and Latino church, the second is an Anglo/predominantly white church. She shared her experience growing up in Los Angeles during the Rodney King riots. Her family had a business that was destroyed by an angry mob. They lost everything, but through a long process of healing she is now serving a community who loves her and supports her ministry. It was not easy, but she continues making time to listen and learn.  

Another opportunity the participants of the event had was to have Rev. Dr. Kendrick Weaver lead us in a scripture exegesis and a creative devotional to add to our toolbox. He shared with us the meaning of the Hebrew word “Hinneni,” which means “Here I am,” or “I am,” an acknowledgment that you are somebody worthy and someone important is calling your attention. We explored the difference between “Hinne,” “Hinneni,” and “Hinnenu.” He used multiple biblical passages as an example. The passage we studied thoroughly was 1 Samuel 3:2-9, focusing on verse 9. He explained that Samuel’s “hinneni” is in verse 9 only and it is not passive; it is an active verb. He used a practical illustration to ensure we understood this better. He said, “we cannot answer a phone call unless we pick up the phone, press talk, and engage in the conversation.” According to Dr. Weaver, the story of Samuel in a way represents our call. God never stops calling us because we are worthy to Him, but we sometimes misplace our listening. Rather than making space to listen to God’s voice, we misplace our Hinneni in other people, in what we do, or in validation that we seek from others in ministry. Dr. Weaver drilled the importance of placing our “Hinneni” into God and God alone: He loves us because “We are,” and we don’t have to do anything else. We do not have to perform or produce anything to be called and loved by God. Then, Dr. Weaver led us on a creative way to use what we have learned as a spiritual practice. First, he taught us how to handwrite the word, in Hebrew, and while we wrote, we repeated the word, focusing on the word more than just the calligraphy. Dr. Weaver asked us to draw the image that came to our minds. The second practice was meditation, using it as a mantra or chanting the word. It was a meaningful time because all participants experienced the importance of being present—a critical part of being and listening for God and one another—according to Dr. Weaver.

During the three days we had time to play network Bingo, share conversations during meals, participate in different workshops, and worship together in various languages and musical styles. It was a gathering to celebrate diversity, uplift the gifts of everyone and gave us a glimpse of what it could be when everyone does Belong and Become. A small group of pastors and lay people from Rio Texas had the opportunity to connect with pastors from all over the country. I give thanks to God for the opportunity to attend the event. I give a high-five to the team who prayerfully put the event together, and I celebrate every person I met during this time. It has been a reminder of the importance of being, listening, and being present to be faithful to God’s call that has been placed in my life and to celebrate the call of every person I encounter.

Summer to Remember

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I know the title of this article sounds like a movie flick or a new series on one of the popular streaming platforms. It is how I describe the Summer of 2023 because of the multiple celebrations we had in the Rio Texas Conference. The title is not because of the scorching temperatures we endured across Texas (even though we broke the record of most consecutive days with triple digit temperatures). I want to focus on the celebrations from this summer.

We welcomed the season with the Rio Texas Annual Conference. Many people were happy to be back at Corpus Christi after four years. I was excited because, thanks to the leadership of Rev. Nohemi Ramirez’s sponsorship and collaboration from multiple pastors, a resolution acknowledging the 150th anniversary of Mexican and Mexican American Methodism was composed and presented. The resolution was read during the plenary session and received by all delegates with a joyous and celebratory tone. Later the same day, Kelsey Memorial UMC in Corpus Christi hosted a dinner. Not only was the dinner important because of the presence of Bishop Robert Schnase and Retired Bishop Joel Martinez, but Kelsey was the first Hispano-Latino church in the Corpus Christi-area.  

The event was possible because of the initiative, collaboration, and support from La Trinidad UMC San Antonio and Kelsey Memorial UMC. Thank you, pastors, leaders and everyone involved in all details. Bishop Martinez read to us about some important events and figures who set milestones of the Mexican and Mexican American methodism history. Bishop Martinez reminded us of the valuable contribution of Mexican and Mexican American lay and clergy leaders to the faith community of the Mexico-Texas area and to the general church.  

We sang the Metodista Anthem. Mariachis delighted all participants with traditional songs and many other popular coritos or worship songs. Everyone sang, tasted delicious food, and enjoyed fellowship with diverse peoples. For me, this was a great time to hear of our story and the contribution of many saints to renew our strength and continue our journey. These events reminded me that I am part of the great cloud of witnesses, celebrating our diversity.

Unfortunately, a few weeks after the celebration at Kelsey, we witnessed another type of celebration. We celebrated the transition of Rev. Edgar Avitia into the triumphant church. He was a key participant in the celebration at Kelsey a few weeks before his passing. He contributed and wrote a portion of what Bishop Martinez read at Kelsey. On July 2, family and friends gave thanks for the life of Rev. Avitia. He gave witness to The United Methodist Church and to many Wesleyan churches in Latin America. His passion to share stories and build bridges with many Iglesias Metodistas across America led him to create many friendships everywhere he went. He served well in his ministry and promoted a love for hearing our true story. Rest in the presence of our Mighty God, brother Edgar Avitia.

We closed the summer with a massive gathering at La Trinidad UMC San Antonio. Rev. Raquel and John Feagins extended an invitation to the Hispanic caucus in the Methodist church, Mestodistas Asociados por la Causa Hispano-Latina en América (MARCHA). The MARCHA executive committee gathered about 200 Pastors and lay leaders from across the U.S. and Puerto Rico gathered for their Annual Assembly, celebrating its 51th anniversary and continuing the celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the establishment of Methodism in Mexico for Mexican Americans.  

Prior to the event, multiple pastors and lay members from San Antonio, San Marcos, Seguin, and Floresville worked together to make this event possible; some were part of worship while others welcomed and lead people throughout the event. A few others helped as translators and others invited people to volunteer to decorate and serve. It was a true collaboration to represent the Rio Texas Conference and the South-Central Jurisdiction with honor and smile to all visitors.  

The Main theme of the gathering this year was “Somos Metodistas, Somos MARCHA, Somos” (We are Methodist, we are MARCHA, We are). The time together was meaningful. First and foremost, it was the first time coming back together after 3 years of online events and workshops. La Trinidad’s Gym was like a popular market filled with sounds, colors, laughs and fiesta from beginning to end. The president of MARCHA lifted up in prayer those who are struggling, like our migrant communities at the border seeking asylum, and those in our country who are mistreated or in the shadows: victims of gun violence and families who mourn their loved ones; and the silencing of Bishop Minerva Carcaño. We mourn the loss of Rev. Edgar and his legacy in MARCHA, Latin America, and his ministry. There is no easy way to face difficult times, but they are less painful when we know God is with us and we have hermanas y hermanos supporting us in prayers and in our community.

We had the presence of six United Methodist Bishops, and Bishop Lizette Gabriel Montano, the first female Bishop in Puerto Rico. MARCHA hosted a banquet where Rep. Delia Ramirez was the speaker of the night. She shared her testimony of being a daughter of an immigrant mother from Guatemala. She encourages us to walk with courage knowing that God’s grace is with us. She never thought she would be running for congress in Illinois, let alone win an election. She recalled that many times people at her job reminded her that she does not belong in Congress, but her faith and love for her people or “mi gente” as she said, gave her strength to walk with her chin up, because God and her people would be walking with her into those places designed to keep her out. She was an inspiration for all participants. Her local United Methodist Church instilled in her the passion to show her faith through actions, helped her to find her voice to speak for those without voice, and to seek human rights for all of God’s children.  

We had the opportunity to hear, debate, amend, and create proposals for the General Conference. In this exercise, I was reminded that we are in different places, theologically and culturally. We did debate for some time and came to an agreement in a respectful way knowing that all of us are valuable and sought to honor each other’s position. It was a wonderful time to have an open conversation about issues that we did not always agree upon. But if we listen and have empathy for one another, we can hear each other’s heart. Bishop Joel Martinez was not able to be physically present but he shared in a video message the significant events in the 150 years of Mexican and Mexican-American Methodism that inspired many to continue the journey.  

These are a few of the reasons that lead me to say this was a summer to remember. It made me think of Isaiah 52:7-8. It is good to hear good news, shouts of joy from those who bring good tides. We are living difficult and transitional times and I need Good News to keep me grounded and keep me from becoming cynical. These events refresh my faith and confidence that God continues calling us to bring life to places that sometimes show nothing but death. Thank you to all lay leaders and fellow pastors who seek to build God’s kingdom wherever you set foot.

2023 Youth Summer Camps Recap

The Bible offers plenty of incredible visions given to different people across history. One of those is the one described by Prophet Ezequiel, in his book, in chapter 37:1-14. In my opinion, it is a dramatic scene that goes beyond any movie in theaters. For those who don’t know the passage, The Prophet describes himself in a valley full of dry bones and is asked by God a controversial question - Do you think these dry bones have life? The prophet gives a wise response: Instead of affirming or denying, he placed the question back to God - “you know better than I do.” Then God guided The Prophet step-by-step.

The Rio Texas Conference Summer Youth camps used the verse of Ezequiel 37:4 as the main theme. Like the passage, I was not sure how things would develop, and same as the prophet, I just responded, “You know better than I do.” I just trusted God and leaders who offered themselves. This year we hosted two camps: one from July 2-7 in Palacios, TX; and July 9-14 in Buda, TX.

We counted on the support from district and conference resources to secure a location. Rev. Phillip Higginbotham and Isabella Lopez met several times to brainstorm ideas for camp and make it affordable to all youth and campers. One of the recurring questions along the process was if our churches would come. We wondered if we would have enough campers. We moved ahead in faith. We counted on many leaders who secured music, pastors who offered their leadership skills, and youth coordinators who came together to support.  

The first camp in Palacios, TX was coordinated by Rev. Higginbotham. It was the first time the conference hosted camp at this location. While the proximity to the sea was inviting, it did not take away the summer heat concern. Rev. Marcus Johns from UT-Arlington Campus Ministry was the main speaker. He took the youth from prevenient grace, justifying grace, into sanctifying grace, and he did it in a way that was relatable to campers and easy to grasp. He affirmed the youth that they are loved by God. Rev. Johns highlighted all the gifts and people who supported and guided them throughout their journey—reminding them that they are an important part in their family, church, and community (especially among their peers). Like Ezequiel, they too could prophesize and speak the truth to friends and the people they encounter. He closed by reminding the campers, “this isn’t over;” encouraging them to share what they learned and experienced during camp with their peers and to not be ashamed of being different because they can inspire a new generation of believers. It was an invitation to not wait until next the camp or mission trip. They can share what they lived and experienced to everyone. The youth are the disciples who will proclaim the good news to others and bring life to many people.

A significant moment happened on the last full day at camp. It rained all morning. The adults were concerned because after lunch, the youth planned to have recreation time in the bay. As we got together to come up with solutions, a few students came and mentioned that they could sing and dance together instead of going outside in the rain. This time, the youth not only danced and sang together, but they bonded in a way I could not foresee. It was as if I was witnessing people coming to life—and having fun in a clean and respectful way!

At Buda Camp, the Coordinator was Isabella Lopez and the Main speaker was Rev. Elizabeth “Lizzie” Wright, the CEO of Justice For Our Neighbors-Austin. This camp started with a real challenge that gave an opportunity to see fellowship among pastors and diversity in the youth. Rev. Lizzie was ill for few weeks. Five days before camp started, she was diagnosed with pneumonia and a possible rib fracture. She was looking forward to her time with the youth. Medicine and rest would put her close to recovery, but she was not able to participate the first two days of camp. Rev. Dr. Todd Salmi kicked-off the start of camp, and the next day Rev. Wes Cain blessed the youth on their first day of camp.

Rev. Wright later recovered and arrived. It was such a blessing. When she talked about the breath that God infused in the bones, she explained how youth can connect with God anytime if they paused to breathe and pray a short prayer. She also offered the Lectio Divina exercise to approach scripture in a prayerful way. She shared about a few of the sojourners that her ministry served, learned from, and loved. She reminded us that we show love to God every time we serve the least and the lost.

During the last night at camp, Isabella Lopez shared her testimony of how she received her call to be youth coordinator at a similar camp when she was only 12 years old. Now she was in Buda leading others to Christ. She encouraged youth to listen for God and walk with them:

I was truly blessed with the incredible opportunity to help plan and direct one of the conference summer camps that took place at Buda TX. As camp began, I had little to no expectation, knowing that many of the students we were serving had never attended a church summer camp before. In the days leading up to camp, I devoted myself to daily prayers for each and every registered participant. The most impactful aspect of the camp experience for me was witnessing the remarkable transformation of the students. Initially, these students barely sang along during worship, but by the end, they were joyfully screaming the lyrics, raising their hands, and dancing with abandon. I was humbled as students approached me, sharing their initial fear of singing and expressing how the spirit moved them to pour out their hearts in song. Even the quieter students returned home and couldn't stop talking about their camp experience. The evidence of their transformation was clear in their words and actions. It feels like just yesterday that I was a sixth grader attending a conference camp, being prayed over by the camp director. Now, almost 13 years later, I find myself in the privileged position of praying over students. This illustrates the beauty and power of camp ministry, emphasizing its significance for our students. These young individuals are not just the church in the present; they are our future pastors, youth leaders, children's leaders, lay leaders, and so much more. 

Like Prophet Ezequiel, I was not sure what God could do, but step-by-step I saw His transforming power in leaders, pastors, youth and their communities. I give thanks to the prayers of those who kept and keep praying for the youth leadership. I give thanks to those who invested—financially and spiritually—in our youth disciples.

I hopeful that God will continue giving visions of our church through our youth members.

Written by Rev. Miguel Padilla & Isabella Lopez

Fresh Wisdom During Annual Conference 2023

This year’s Rio Texas Annual Conference 2023 theme was “Never Alone / Nunca Solos” (Matthew 28:20). This is part of the Great Commissioning passage. This Bible Verse is inspiring for me and many faithful servants who feel called to ministry, either ordained or as lay persons, around the world. It was timely for many reasons, but the main reason was disaffiliation. I am still processing the grief of losing partners and friends in ministry and losing local communities of faith. I knew a few of them personally. However, just the thought of losing the wealth of history in each congregation made my heart heavy.

The theme helped me focus while I mourned. I am hopeful because of the call from God to go and make disciples everywhere—it is fresh, it is true, and it is solid. I have work to do, and I do not have to do it by myself. I have God’s love and power; as well as those who walked before, with, and ahead of me. This year I had the blessing to witness firsthand the planning of Annual Conference.

The Cabinet and conference leadership thought it would be a good idea to host a panel conversation. Along with Rev. Karen Horan, I was asked to put together a group of people who would talk about Young Adult Ministry. We came up with the general goal of this panel, how the local congregation can better connect, equip, and empower better young adults in their area. I shared the ideas with Rev. Todd Salmi, Rev. David McMinn, and Rev. Todd Jones. They suggested that instead of having a pastor or Campus Minister craft the questions and lead the panel, we will empower actual students to select the questions and plan the format.

We were blessed to invite Anna Shipley (Perkins Seminarian, Rio Texas UM Army Regional Director, and Contemporary Director of Worship at Covenant UMC Austin), Isabella Lopez (Youth Director at Colonial Hills UMC San Antonio, Las Misiones District Coordinator, and Summer Camp Director), Hanna Hoffman (United Campus Ministry at Texas State University Associate Director for Campus Ministry), Raja Banks (Graduated from Huston-Tillotson University, second-year summer intern at St. John UMC Austin), and Avery Delleney (Student and intern in Pastoral Care at United Campus Ministry at Texas State University).

To prepare, they gathered over Zoom and in-person. We only gave them the time frame and goal for the panel, and they had very deep and meaningful conversations. They shared their common experiences and what they are passionate about. I was there learning and witnessing disciples willing to take a risk for God’s kingdom.

The young adults presented at Annual Conference shared meaningful questions and practical ideas. If you missed it, you can watch the video from Plenary III. They reminded us to ask young adults in your community:
•    What they are passionate about?
•    What brings them joy to their life?
•    How can I pray with you this week?

The young adult panelists remind us that all young adults are different. Young adults can be in different life stages: not everyone is in college. Not every ‘twentysomething’ is comfortable interacting with children or teenagers. Some want to connect with older people, receive advice, or become a mentor. They want to be invited to events you host and be connected to a community who cares about their well-being. Most importantly, they want to be part of a community.

When the panelists answered the question of “How can the church empower you?” there were a couple of answers that left me in awe.

Isabella shared a story of a friend who recently graduated from college and was coming back home. She said her friend wanted to learn how to live out their membership vows, how he can pray, serve, and offer his gifts in a way that makes a difference in their church but also in their daily life. It sounded to me he wanted a church mentor—not to tell him what to do—but to walk alongside other church members and discover how they put their faith in action. He wanted to feel the confidence that someone was there to support him when he made a mistake, celebrate a milestones, and pray with him.

The panelists encouraged churches to invest in all young adults without the fear that they may leave. When we as a church disciple a young adult and she or he leaves—we are investing in another community, we are investing in God’s Kingdom. We are being generous by sharing our wisdom, time, and values to wherever this person goes. They will carry everything they received from the home church, and they will bless the places where they go. Sounds to me like they understand connectionalism better than I do. In other words, we disciple each other not only for our own gain or add to our membership church number—we disciple to fulfill the Great Commission and to expand the kingdom of God everywhere God leads them.
 
I got the opportunity to experience how I am not alone. The panel was the result of cooperation and empowerment of young disciples. It made me remember that all are called and, in these young people, we have a great opportunity to continue to learn and to walk hand-in-hand. Never alone. We have Christ’s power and grace, and each other’s wisdom. I thank the students, the multiple pastors who made this experience rich and possible. My prayer is that we seek the Holy Spirit’s wisdom to empower and walk alongside youth, young adults and people who are normally overlooked. Nunca solos!!

Written by Rev. Miguel Padilla

Mid-Winter Recap and Invitation to Summer Camp

This past weekend, I heard the story of “Everybody, Somebody, Anybody and Nobody” for the first time. I tried to find out who wrote it, but it is hard to identify. Some people think it is a poem by Charles Osgood, but this story is commonly used by people teaching leadership. I am glad that when it comes to Youth Camp, this story is not the case here in Rio Texas. I had the opportunity to witness this in the last month. A group of Youth Coordinators stepped out in faith and offered their gifts to lead and organize three Mid-Winter retreats across south Texas.

The First Mid-Winter was offered by the Capital District, January 13 – 15, at T Bar M Camp. Rev. Ryan Jenson, Associate Pastor at Austin Oak Hill UMC was the leader of this group effort. He shared that multiple youth coordinators from the Austin-area offered to lead a part of the three-day weekend retreat. The theme was “Made for More.”

Each local church youth coordinator led an activity. We heard from two different worship groups: Texas State Musicians, and a father-daughter duo from Gruene UMC. The speakers were students from Texas State University and UT Wesley.

All the speakers spoke with passion about God’s call, God’s grace, and their personal experience and faith journey. The weather was a little cold, but the energy shared by facilitators, adults and students kept us warm throughout the weekend.

The second Mid-Winter was offered by The Coastal Bend and El Valle District on February 3-5, at Camp Zephyr. FUMC Palacios Rev. Phillip Higginbotham and Campus Minister/District Youth Coordinator Rev. Todd Johns led the camp. Superintendent Rev. Laura Brewster gathered many youth pastors and fundraised to keep the camp affordable for every child.

The theme was “Greatest Of All Time (G.O.A.T)”. Senior Pastor at Corpus Christi Kelsey Memorial Rev. John Fletcher shared how God is the greatest of all time; how through Christ, we are made great to serve others. Students had the opportunity to play, learn and create new relationships. Recreational activities kept students and adults involved and engaged with many activities. If you see a video where Pastor Phillip and I are intensely playing Tic Tac Toe with a ping pong ball, I let him win, do not let him tell you otherwise, LOL.

Last, but not least, Las Misiones hosted the third Mid-Winter, February 10-12, at Twin Oaks Camp in Buda. Isabella Lopez, Youth Coordinator at San Antonio Colonial Hills UMC, was the retreat leader. She recruited the District Lay Leader Mark Mitchell, people from her church, and other small churches to volunteer and offer their gifts for an awesome weekend for the youth.  

San Antonio St. Matthew UMC Rev. Kelly Conkelton taught the kids and teens to connect scripture with their daily lives and reminded them that they are loved by God–Jesus chose to incarnate and be with us. Students and adults had the opportunity to set up and serve meals as well as lead some activities at the camp. It was an interactive camp, and everyone contributed to make it a success.

I love that somebody stepped up and everyone helped to create a space for the youth to explore their faith, share their experiences and make new connections with youth from across the Rio Texas Conference. I am glad that the story of the four “Body’s” mentioned at the beginning is not what I saw in any of the Mid-Winters. Instead, I witnessed Acts 6:1-7, where disciples and people prayed over leaders, and they were filled of the Holy Spirit to serve and helped increase their witness around the region. I witnessed many pastors and lay leaders embodying and modeling discipleship to a new generation of leaders that we had the privilege to serve and mentor.

Some of the constants in all three camps were: the cooperation and collaboration from many leaders whose main objective was not to be in the spotlight, but to offer their best so others could have time with Jesus and growth in their discipleship. Pastors, youth leaders and parents worked together to create a welcoming space for youth, many of them experiencing camp for the first time.

Each Mid-Winter was led and offered to a particular district. However, churches from outside districts were also welcomed to join. I think this was a huge success because all were willing to share their resources and leadership to host groups from around the connection. I hope this will be the vision for youth ministry across Rio Texas, to share resources and leadership so together we could witness our faith to each other. I am grateful for all the pastors and youth leaders who offered their time, money, and gifts so that our youth had space to explore and express their faith. I cannot say I had a favorite camp because all three had a distinctive leadership, opportunities and experience that made each unique.

I cannot wait to see all the youth from across the Conference during summer camp. We will have two camps this year: one in Palacios July 2-7 and another in Buda July 9-13. Pre-Registration will be $275 before May 15. $300 between May 15 – June 12. Registration due date is June 12. If you have an adult or youth who feels called to serve in the planning team, please do not hesitate to contact me at mpadilla@riotexas.org. I would love to continue offering the best to our youth and our youth coordinators. Please keep all youth ministers and youth in prayer.

EDI Conference in Chicago

Written by Miguel Padilla

CHICAGO — One of my frequent Bible verses I use to open Sunday worship, or a church gathering, is Matthew 18:20. For me it is a reminder that it is a holy time when two or three gather to pray, to holy conference, or worship. However, I think it is an appropriate verse for the time I spent in Chicago October 23-26.

I was appointed this past July to be the EDI Conference Staff of the Rio Texas Conference. Soon after I was appointed, Bishop Laura Merrill and Rev. Ronald Henderson (from North Texas Conference) connected me to a monthly Zoom gathering with other conference coordinators. They were planning to meet in Chicago to share what they were doing and what roadblocks they had encountered. This group is made of recently appointed, like me, and few with more experience in their positions. I was invited to be part of a National gathering for Conference coordinators who deal with Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in their respective Conferences. It was the first time for me, first time for the group, and the first time of a meeting of this type.

One day before my flight to Chicago I received an email from the organizer Amania Drane, a lay person from Northern Illinois Conference, asking that if we arrive early in the morning to participate in an event happening in the historic St. Paul AME Church at Glencoe, Ill. The North Illinois Conference anti-racism team had a series of training sessions with North Shore UMC (NSUMC), a predominant Anglo congregation, early in the year.

The closing remark of Dr. Richard Guzman, leader and facilitator from the Anti-racism team, at the last session was “Now that you have done some work, please do not do anything. Please reflect, listen, seek relationships with minority groups, support and advocate.”

As a result of this training and following Dr. Richard’s advice, the members from NSUMC started conversations and fellowship with St. Paul AME. After both congregations worshiped, ate, and got to know each other, both churches led a local campaign to include the history of the church and the African American community’s presence and contribution to Glencoe community in the local museum.

The day I arrived at Chicago, they gathered at St. Paul. The leaders from both congregations and city authorities participated. St. Paul’s members shared personal stories about their experience growing up in the church and in the community. They expressed how the St. Paul community helped them find their identity and equipped them to thrive because St. Paul leaders exposed community members to faith, arts, education and mentors.

They also raised the question about the reduction of people of color in the neighborhood. They challenged the church and government to find a way to make Glencoe more welcoming for people of color, to create a support system for small business owners who are people of color, and recruit and offer good salaries to people of color in education and public service.

The mayor’s secretary and a few council members present at the event set dates to come up with an action plan on the demands from the members of these two churches and invited them to be part of those conversations.

For me personally, it was a holy moment to witness how people of faith working together can bring new possibilities and create access to those who otherwise are put aside or ignored. I am pretty sure the journey that led to this point wasn’t easy or pleasant. They probably had to confront their prejudices and misconceptions. There were probably some uncomfortable stories. But because they gathered and allowed their faith become their common ground, we were—at this moment at St. Paul church—witnessing the work of God and his disciples in action.

The next two days, the conference coordinators spent time visiting FUMC in Chicago, where we had conversations with some members of the Anti-Racism Task force of the conference. They shared their work and experiences. We visited Garret Evangelical Seminary and learned about the University as well as the efforts they were making to offer more flexible and inclusive classes. The Dean and staff shared their desire to close the gap between Academy and local church. They were planning record videos that local leaders could easily access.

They were also contemplating the possibility of bringing voices from Central America, Africa, or other parts of the world to enrich the theological conversation. We gathered via Zoom with the leadership from GCORR and people doing EDI working around the country. We talked about Youth ministry and EDI. We learned from each other and shared experiences. It helps to know that there are others who are willing to cooperate in order to expand God’s kingdom.

That is why I said the verse from Matthew has more relevance for me. It reminds me that when two or three gather to pray, to have conversation, to work and cooperate in God’s presence, His Kingdom is proclaimed to everyone. While I enjoy having partners in ministry and a wealth of wisdom, the most impactful moment was when I witnessed in St. Paul AME Church the possibility of God’s disciples working on their faith while they impact the lives of many families. May we be willing to do the hard work—not because it is good or feels good but because it is our call. We welcome God’s presence in our communities.