Saint James Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) operates two migrant child care centers that have served families and children for twelve years. Drawing upon Charles Edmond Barnes's experience in this particular ministry, he has been led to present the Doctor of Ministry project dealing with, “The Church’s Ministry To Migrant Families Through Head Start Child Care.”

This project sought to increase awareness of economic and social injustices that effect migrant families. Using Saint James Christian Church as a model, ways were developed for a local church and community to become role models for mission in ministry. Results of the project showed that a church can be an advocate to ensure needed services for migrant farm workers and their families.