When leaders on the Church of the Nazarene’s West Texas District were contacted by a nonprofit in need of space to house 200 immigrant and refugee children from Central America, they didn’t hesitate.

“It was a unanimous decision,” said David Downs, West Texas district superintendent. “We were honored to receive these kids while they are awaiting placement in the U.S.”

The boys, ages 13 to 16, are currently in their second week of a three-week stay at the district campground, Camp Arrowhead. Some will be reunited with family in the U.S. while others will go into foster care.

“When we learned about these young boys, we were glad we were in a position to welcome them,” Downs said. “Particularly after Christmas, I think it’s appropriate as we think about the story of Mary and Joseph and little Jesus fleeing for safety to Egypt, that we can provide a safe and wholesome environment for these boys, even though it is just for a few weeks.”

Each week, Spanish-speaking district pastors coordinate Sunday afternoon and Wednesday night worship services.

“We have experienced almost 100 percent attendance and participation,” Downs said. “My heart has been especially warmed when, at the close of each service, well over half of the kids have knelt at our altars for special prayer by the pastors.” 

Downs referenced the district’s work as an opportunity to act out Matthew 25, where Jesus tells a parable about serving “the least of these.”

“I have been very pleased by the enthusiastic support of this endeavor by our district leadership and by our pastors and people,” Downs said. “There is a genuine sensitivity to refugees on our district, as indicated by this circumstance and our refugee ministry center in Cactus.

“I am especially grateful for our camp staff and pastors who are working to make this possible. It’s been a beautiful ministry.”