The synod's mission in Mexico—recently relocated to León in the wake of escalating drug violence in Torreón—has begun offering English classes, an important step toward establishing the first congregation in the mission's new home city.

Rev. Michael Hartman, WELS' mission coordinator in Mexico, explains, "The main purpose of the English as a foreign language classes is that it gives us an opportunity to meet people, become friends, and then carry out friendship evangelism. It is also a valuable tool for getting the Lutheran name out in the community."

Hartman reports that 190 students are attending—a few have already expressed interest in studying the Bible. Rev. Ralph Martens, another WELS missionary serving in Mexico, is beginning to work with these students.

In March and April, WELS missionaries made the move to the new location. The plan is to establish two new congregations in León and then return to Torreón in the future if the violence subsides.

For more information about WELS' mission in Mexico, visit www.lutheransinmexico.com.