Walking with Families in Faith: A Mission Trip to Cuatro Ciénegas

CWM
6 days ago
2 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

James Flanagan

Executive Director Catholic World Mission

March 2025

One of the great blessings of working at Catholic World Mission is that we get opportunities to visit our many partners around the world to see how our supporters are making a massive impact in communities in need. I had the privilege of traveling to Cuatro Ciénegas, Mexico, alongside members of Lumen and our board chairman, Father Brandenburg. Our journey was part of Catholic World Mission’s commitment to walk with families and communities as they rise out of poverty with dignity and faith.

One highlight of the trip was visiting our Plan 2040 partners and seeing firsthand how this initiative is creating lasting change in the region. A big shoutout to friends Roberto and Maria Ines for their amazing leadership in this area!

We also spent time with our St. Joseph Fatherhood Initiative project, which supports fathers as leaders of faith, strength, and service in their homes. It was inspiring to watch how these programs are helping men embrace their role as providers and protectors, strengthening the entire family in the process. Personally, it was very humbling to talk to the leader of the program - Jesus - and see firsthand how he was leading these men to be better fathers.

Most memorable, though, were the families we met—mothers, fathers, and children whose courage and hope remind us why this mission matters. Their stories are powerful testaments to how faith, opportunity, and partnership can transform lives.

This trip was not just about seeing projects; it was about building relationships, listening to the people we serve, and deepening our shared commitment to uplift families from poverty through the love of Christ. We return encouraged, inspired, and determined to continue this work together.