Mother asks for donations to FSW border church in memory of her daughter
“My brothers and sisters, you were chosen to be free. But don’t use your freedom as an excuse to live under the power of sin. Instead, serve one another in love.” Galatians 5:13 NIRV
By Karen Miller
In May, 2024, 12 passionate souls from Royal Lane Baptist Church traveled to the border to “serve…in love.” Accompanied by Senior Pastor Victoria Robb Powers, we were determined to spread that love and hope, but we received so much in return.
We partnered with Fellowship Southwest and volunteered alongside Iglesias Bautista West Brownsville. We were among the first welcoming faces seen by those who walked across the bridge (legally) into the United States. We fed them, hugged them, gave them clothes, drinks, bibles and sent them to their next stop. Their faces revealed the emotions of the enormous effort it took to get to this place. We were humbled by their courage and grace.
One morning we served food to the homeless population downtown. Some of us served at a welcome center where they could get assistance with paperwork and answers to questions. It was also an opportunity to play with the children and give them toys, clothes and backpacks. We also received satisfaction from spending time organizing clothes closets. We were blessed by the local people who do this work every day.
Pastor Victoria Robb Powers, Barbara Gunnin, Sheryl Gambill, Garland Hamic, Paulette Harrison, Jeff Hill, Cookie Stokes, Cathy Walling, Madge Cruse, Ruth May, Lauren and Karen Miller
We were blessed, but we were also changed. Migrants now had faces and personal stories. We came back with a renewed determination to be involved with legislation to protect immigrants. We often felt helpless, but didn’t take for granted the power of a warm welcome, a smile and a blessing for the journey.
My daughter Lauren and I were participants in this trip. I adopted Lauren in Honduras as an infant. We were never able to go back, but Lauren’s heart was always in Honduras. This trip had great meaning for her in ways I can’t fully understand. She participated in all the activities with great joy. She came home changed in many ways and with a renewed love for her people.
Sadly, tragedy struck in September 2024, and Lauren left this earthly life. It is so comforting to know that Lauren fulfilled her greatest desire and served her people with God’s love.
We all did.
So far, friends and family of Lauren have donated nearly $1,000 in her memory. To give a donation in Lauren’s memory to the immigration ministry at Iglesia Bautista West Brownsville, click here, select “Knox Fund,” and make a note indicating in memory of Lauren Miller.
