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MIDLAND-ODESSA, Texas (KOSA) -Sixty four Chinese refugees migrated from China to South Korea, then to Thailand. Until they finally made it to Texas.

They were seeking religious freedom from the Chinese government, but now that they’re in the land of the free. After a month of living in the Permian Basin, these residents are adapting to life in West Texas.

Half of the refugees live in Midland while the other half stay in Odessa. They lived in Tyler, Texas for eight months before making their way to West Texas.

They’ve gone through some hardships in the past four years, but they never lost faith and always believed they would seek asylum. A month after 64 refugees stepped on the land of oil and gas, they’re now taking everyday one step at a time.

These refugees were on a mission for the past four years to escape the Chinese government. Though they’re safe now, the memories are still there.

“I remember once there we fifty something. Fifty police came down around our house. Yea and they took all the teachers and Pastor Pan.” said Enoch You, refugee living in Odessa.

A majority of the refugees spend most of their days learning English, to eventually find work.

The leader of Mission Messiah said it’s only a matter of time, before these folks begin to start businesses, jobs or go to schools.

“As I have had some of these ideas that I wanted to help move forward, some of them, I’ve had to take a step back. So honestly, kind of like we’re exhorted in the word to do, we’re endeavoring to live one day at a time.” said Jamie Berryhill, Founder of Mission Messiah.

Berryhill said these refugees have been through a lot, but one thing they’re not, is lazy.

Many of the parents that stay at the mission are cooking, gardening, or taking care of their children.

However, they have their priorities set in motion.

“Our immediate priorities are to secure a job for short-term income, ensure our children attend school, and strengthen our English language skills. Effective communication is crucial for both daily life and work in this new environment.” said Guangbo You, refugee living in Odessa.

Meanwhile, some have already started college in West Texas. Three of the 64 refugees have begun taking courses at Midland College.

“I feel like the life in college is busy, but satisfying. I love being busy.” said Midland College student, Beth Yilifeng.

Beth plans to become a registered nurse. The Mayflower Church, where these refugees came from, was deemed illegal and banned from teaching their children.

The Mayflower would still teach their kids, even if it meant they would be arrested.

Beth and her friends now have the liberty to go to school without persecution from their government and they’re ready for what’s to come.

“When I was in Tyler, I didn’t study hard. And after I came to Midland College, I started to study hard and prepare for the future.” said Anquien Wang, Midland College student.

Wang also plans to become a registered nurse like Beth. She talked about the moment of relief when they landed in Texas less than a year ago.

“I was moved at that time and I see hope in my future. And I’m very grateful about this.” said Wang.

the younger kids will get the opportunity to attend schools in Midland and Odessa.

All the children from this group were taught at their church in China. The challenge for them now, is to adapt to going to public schools. However, they’re eager to start.

“I think the kids are all excited. We are having to change out some families right now. The ones that are in Midland, and here. Making that adjustment. Some of those children will be entering the public schools over there. There’s been conversations with Midland Christian. " said Berryhill.

Moving to multiple locations to avoid being arrested, has taught these 64 refugees that no matter what happens, they’ll always have each other.

Their faith pushes them everyday and now it’s led them to their goal. Freedom.

“I think we are the most blessed refugees in the world.”