A Ministry That Never Stopped Serving

Late on the evening of October 25, 2019, a powerful storm moved through San Antonio. As rain fell and winds rose, Travis Park United Methodist Church — long known as a place of welcome and care — found itself responding to unexpected circumstances.

During the night, part of the roof in the Navarro Street Youth Building gave way, allowing water to move through the church. While systems were disrupted and repairs would eventually be needed, what remained unchanged was the church’s steady commitment to serving others.

Because Travis Park UMC has never been defined by walls alone. It is a community shaped by its call to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly — values that continue to guide its ministry every day.

In the years that followed, with support that included a loan from the Texas Methodist Foundation, the congregation moved forward with care and determination. Six years later, phase one of the restoration of the historic church — founded in 1846 — is complete, creating a renewed foundation for ministry well into the future.

What the storm revealed was not loss, but strength. It highlighted a congregation ready to keep showing up for its neighbors, even when conditions were less than perfect. That spirit is felt in the quiet details — like Puente Pals, handmade dolls lovingly given to children — and in the essential services provided through Corazón Ministries, the church’s nonprofit partner offering food, showers, and medical care to those in need.

“We’re united in the belief that the heart wants to reach out and help others,” said Lead Pastor Rev. Cynthia Engstrom. “We’ve been nurturing that for over twenty-five years.”

While repairs were needed, the heart of Travis Park UMC never wavered. The congregation moved forward with renewed purpose, strengthened for the next chapter of ministry. Because while circumstances may change, a church built on love, service, and faith continues to serve — no matter the weather.

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