The Land of Enchantment: Mission Work in the Rio Grande Circuit

Abstract

Heath Butler’s essay explores the history, challenges, and blessings of WELS mission work in the Rio Grande Circuit, which spans New Mexico and El Paso, Texas. Beginning in the mid-1960s, the Wisconsin Synod established churches in this remote region, often facing cultural, geographic, and religious barriers. Butler outlines the Board for Home Missions’ process for establishing new congregations and profiles several churches—including San Juan, Trinity, Faith, Beautiful Savior, Victory in Christ, Emmanuel, Redeemer, Shepherd, Messiah, and Peace—highlighting their unique beginnings, outreach methods, and struggles with isolation and limited Lutheran presence. The essay draws on interviews with pastors and historical documents to illustrate the perseverance of missionaries and congregations in spreading the Gospel. Butler concludes with reflections from his own vicar year in Rio Rancho, emphasizing the importance of fellowship among pastors and the enduring power of God’s Word in building His Church. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)