Hello!

HELLO!

by Jessica Fick, Partner Engagement Director

Hi, I’m Jessica Fick I’m thrilled to serve as the new Partner Engagement Director for Mission Adelante and to connect with many of you this year.  This past November, I transitioned into this role from being the Outreach Pastor at Hillcrest Covenant Church in Prairie Village.  In mobilizing our congregation to serve with Mission Adelante and Adelante Thrift, Jesus began to deepen my commitment to serve refugees and immigrants.  

Last December I spent time with members from my denomination at the border of San Diego and Tijuana. We learned from world class theologians what scripture says about immigrants, heard stories from a deported U.S. veteran and saw the community where Pastor Alexandria ministered to people separated from family members at the border. After the trip, I sensed the Holy Spirit inviting me to use my voice, love of connecting with others and doing justice in a more significant way. 

As someone whose background is in mobilizing people from all ages to share their faith, Jesus and justice outreaches on college campuses, and collaboration across differences for the greater good it seemed that the Lord had provided an ideal place to respond to his invitation to use my voice. 

Whatever stage of life you are in, I believe Jesus wants to use each of us to make a difference in our community and demonstrate his love to others.  I’ve loved that my husband Dave and our two teenage sons have had opportunities to see the world at our doorstep as we’ve volunteered with Mission Adelante.  As I learn the ropes of this new role, I am eager to work alongside you, our  amazing community and celebrate how Jesus is moving as we learn to love people from all places.

This is our time!

This is our time! Help us build out our new Refugee Welcome Center. Donate here: www.missionadelante.org/give

The Image of God

The Image of God

by Kristen Maxwell, Refugee Resettlement Director

It’s hard to comprehend the number of displaced people in the world. Right now, there are 43.7 million refugees.  Behind the statistics and images are real people—parents, children, brothers, and sisters—each carrying their stories, struggles, and hopes. And as people of faith, we’re called to remember that every single one of them is made in the image of God.

The Bible tells us in Genesis 1:27 that God made humanity in His image. This isn’t about physical resemblance—it’s about the imprint of God’s likeness on each of us. That truth doesn’t change based on someone’s circumstances, nationality, or immigration status.

When we look into the eyes of a refugee, we’re looking at someone who reflects the heart of God. Their courage to seek safety and a better future echoes God’s desire for justice and abundant life. Jesus himself experienced displacement as a child. When His family fled to Egypt to escape Herod’s violence, He became, in a very real sense, a refugee (Matthew 2:13-15). This shared experience connects us to Him even more deeply as we seek to walk alongside those fleeing danger today.

Last week, in our staff meeting, one of our team members shared how grateful they were that we had the opportunity to pause and acknowledge the image of God in the clients we serve and that we had the opportunity to get to know the person. That often looks like listening to someone’s story, sharing a meal, or simply offering a warm smile. Even small acts of connection can be profound reminders that they are seen, valued, and loved—not just by us, but by God.

In December, we have had the opportunity to welcome 21 individuals fleeing their homes thus far and will welcome 21 more over the rest of the month.  The average case we are receiving has been waiting for resettlement for over 10 years, some much less, but some much more.  One of the most beautiful aspects of welcoming refugees is how it enriches our lives. Refugees bring with them incredible strength, resilience, and cultural beauty. When we take the time to connect, we see that their presence is a gift—not just to them but to us as well.  God’s kingdom is gloriously diverse, and embracing that diversity here on earth gives us a glimpse of what’s to come. Building bridges of understanding and friendship honors the Creator who made us all.

This is our time!

This is our time! Help us build out our new Refugee Welcome Center. Donate here: www.missionadelante.org/give

From Immigrant to Advocate: A Journey of Hope and Service

From Immigrant to Advocate: A Journey of Hope and Service

By Geraldin Olaya Crisanto, Refugee Resettlement Case Aid



At Mission Adelante, the work we do goes far beyond simply providing aid. Every day, we have the privilege of helping families rebuild their lives in a new country. As a Refugee Resettlement Case Aid, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with assisting refugees as they navigate their new lives in the United States. But for me, this work holds a special place in my heart because it is deeply personal.

I grew up in a family that made the courageous decision to leave everything behind in search of a better future. My parents migrated to the U.S. in pursuit of the American Dream, bringing my sisters and me along to give us the opportunities they never had. I’ll never forget the sacrifices they made, leaving behind their home, family, and everything familiar to build a life from scratch. In many ways, their journey mirrors the experience of the refugee families we serve at Mission Adelante.

As someone who has walked the path of immigration, I understand the challenges of adapting to a new country, a new culture, and a new language. The feelings of uncertainty and homesickness are all too familiar. Yet, amidst these struggles, I also experienced a deep sense of hope, the hope that comes with the chance for a better future. That hope, though it may flicker at times, is what keeps families pushing forward, even when the path seems uncertain.

This is why working in refugee resettlement feels like more than just a job to me. It feels like a calling, an opportunity to use my God-given gifts to help others on similar journeys.

One of the most meaningful moments for me came when my sister and her college club at K-State volunteered their time to support newly arrived refugee children. They assembled small “welcome kits” filled with colored pencils, coloring books, and activities. Something simple, but incredibly powerful. These kits will give the children something to enjoy and occupy their time while they wait for their permanent homes to be ready. To see my sister and her peers giving of their time and resources for these kids reminded me that no act is too small; each gesture has the potential to bring joy and comfort during a time of transition and uncertainty.

I am reminded daily of the importance of hope, compassion, and the gift of community. It’s truly amazing to be part of the refugee resettlement process and to witness the transformation that takes place in these families’ lives. From the relief of receiving a permanent home to the joy of children starting school and making new friends, each small victory reminds me of why this work is so important.

I feel so blessed to have found friends through my job at Mission Adelante. People who share the same passion for justice, kindness, and serving others. In these friendships, I find strength and encouragement, knowing that we are all part of a greater purpose.

Through it all, I’m reminded of the words from my favorite Psalm- Psalm 37:4: “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” This work is a reflection of my own heart’s desire to serve, to help others, and to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. I am grateful every day for the opportunity to walk alongside these incredible families and to play a small part in their journey toward new beginnings.

As we continue to walk alongside these families and support their transition into a new life, we invite you to be a part of this important work. Whether through direct support, prayer, volunteering to help, or simply by being an advocate for refugees in your community. Together, we can continue to welcome and empower those who need it most.

This is our time!

This is our time! Help us build out our new Refugee Welcome Center. Donate here: www.missionadelante.org/give

The Courage to Welcome: Building Bridges in a Divided Nation

The Courage to Welcome: Building Bridges in a Divided Nation

By Amy Herman, Reception and Placement Director



As I sit here writing this post on Election Day, 2024, I am saddened by how the world seems more divided than ever. The very people—our friends, our refugees, our neighbors—that we are biblically mandated to care for, are hiding in the shadows, wondering what tomorrow will bring and who they can trust.

I think of the 110 refugees we received this year, displaced and scattered from their homes by war, famine, or persecution. They are often the first to bear the weight of a divided world, waiting anxiously in camps or cities far from their homeland, hoping for a future where they are seen as people, not problems. What will today's election mean for them? Will their hopes for safety and opportunity be dashed, or will their voices be heard? 

As all of this is heavy on my heart and mind, I have seen a glimmer of hope from the local church and a call for unity in an era of division.

Friday night, we hosted folks from two local churches in a training session, who are committed to joining in unity the seven other Good Neighbor Teams coming alongside our Afghan, Congolese, Eritrean, Guatemalan, Venezuelan and Burmese families.  A Good Neighbor Team is a small group of people from a church or friend group who have said yes to walking alongside a newly arriving immigrant family for 6-12 months, providing tangible care, friendship, and community connection.

The Bible is clear about how we are to treat the stranger, the sojourner, and the foreigner. In the book of Leviticus, we are instructed to "love the foreigner as yourself" (Leviticus 19:34). Jesus Himself, when speaking of the final judgment, tells us that when we welcome the stranger, we welcome Him (Matthew 25:35).

In these scriptures, we see that hospitality is not a mere suggestion—it’s a divine command. But it’s also a powerful way to bridge the gap between people of different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. It’s a way to turn division into connection, fear into understanding, and suspicion into friendship.

Welcoming immigrants and refugees means offering not just a physical place but also a place of dignity, respect, and belonging. It means taking time to hear their stories, to recognize their humanity, and to walk with them through the challenges they face. It’s about seeing people as individuals, not as labels or stereotypes.

The negative portrayal of refugees in the media doesn't reflect my personal experience. This year alone, I’ve had the privilege of meeting 110 new refugees, building meaningful friendships, and being welcomed into the lives of hundreds of immigrants over the past 12 years. My journey has been one of connection, compassion, and mutual respect—experiences far removed from the fear-driven narratives often seen in the media.

So today, as I distract myself and focus on the beauty of my relationships with many immigrants from all corners of the world, our staff is busy moving a recently arrived family from Afghanistan into their new apartment. Free from the constant fear of the Taliban, they now have a chance to rebuild their lives in safety, surrounded by new opportunities and a community that welcomes them with open arms. It's a reminder of how fragile freedom can be, and how transformative a simple act of kindness can be in the lives of those who have endured unimaginable hardship.

Would you and your church or friend group or business join us in personally welcoming and discovering friendships with people from all places?  I can assure you and the lives of the new friends you welcome will be mutually impacted.  

If you are interested in forming a Good Neighbor Team or learning more about it, please reach out to me at resettlement@missionadelante.org.  

This is our time!

This is our time! Help us build out our new Refugee Welcome Center. Donate here: www.missionadelante.org/give

Gracias a Dios!

Gracias a Dios!

By Caleb Miller, Refugee Empowerment Director

I’ve always loved learning. Since childhood, I’ve been a big reader. I liked going to school, unless the homework started to pile up too high, and I’ve always been interested in trying new things or going to new places. So when I joined Mission Adelante back in April, I was excited at the prospect of working with people from all over the world and the learning opportunities this would bring.


Over the course of seven months or so, there have been plenty of touchpoints with other cultures. Food, culture, body language, traditions, you name it. These are all ways that we teach each other about who we are and where we come from. But how we most tangibly communicate these things on a daily basis through language. On a weekly basis, I text (with the help of Google Translate) in Spanish, Swahili, Kinyarwanda, and Dari – maybe even some Tigrinya or Hahka Chin thrown in there as well. I grew up around other languages, having lived in the Czech Republic for most of my childhood, where I played on a Czech hockey team and attended international schools. I studied German throughout high school and college. I love languages, and I consider myself pretty decent at picking them up. 

As you can probably imagine, Google Translate can only do so much. It’s almost a daily occurrence for one of our staff to receive a message from one of our clients that either makes no sense or is translated so clunkily that we can’t help but laugh. And I’m absolutely positive that this happens on the other side as well, leaving our clients more confused than ever about what exactly these crazy Americans are trying to say. But over time, there are some words that become familiar and recognizable to us from these other languages, and I’d like to share a few words I’ve learned with you today along with my best attempts at their pronunciations:

Thank you:

Kinyarwanda, mainly spoken in Rwanda - “Murakoze” (mu-ra-KOH-zeh)

Dari, Afghanistan - “Tashakor” (tash-a-KOR)

Thank you, bye!:

Spanish - “Gracias adios!”

For a while after I would hear this phrase, I was confused because our clients would say “gracias adios” and then not go anywhere. I was unsure if they had a similar culture to Midwesterners, where goodbyes often rebound back into other conversations that require further attempts at goodbyes once the new topic is fully discussed. Eventually I found out that I’d been mishearing the phrase all along.

Thanks to God:

Spanish - “Gracias a Dios!”

Makes a lot more sense, doesn’t it?

Good bye:

Dari - “Khoda hafez” (HODO-fez)

This also means “may God protect you.”

Yep, ok, alright, sure, gotcha:

Dari - “Bale” (BA-le)

Spanish - “Vale” (VA-le)

Kinyarwanda - “Ego” (EH-go)

It’s kind of cool how Afghans and Spanish speakers have an almost identical sounding word with the same exact meaning despite living on opposite sides of the world and in vastly different contexts. 

Cool, fabulous, amazing:

Spanish - “Chevere” (SHEH-ve-re)

Basically this is what this word means →😎

I look forward to this list of words expanding as we welcome more new individuals and families into our city and our community. I’m sure the learning will continue in equal measure to the laughs I receive when I incorrectly pronounce these words in front of my clients. Though there may be language barriers, there are so many other ways to meaningfully communicate. And I’ve come to find that even knowing one or two words in someone else’s language can break down barriers. A multilingual author I like once talked about how when he spoke in someone else’s language, he found that they began to see him as “one of them.” I love this idea that learning from each other brings unity and connection. Thank you for living this out by following or being a part of our organization and I look forward to continuing to learn together!

This is our time!

This is our time! Help us build out our new Refugee Welcome Center. Donate here: www.missionadelante.org/give

Video Post: A Critical Moment at Mission Adelante

Friends,

Over the next two months, we have two major initiatives happening simultaneously that will require the participation and support of all of our friends and partners.

  1. Refugee Resettlement Surge: Because of dynamics related to the recent election, we are preparing to receive around 100 refugees by mid-January. Many of these are people who have been waiting in refugee camps for a decade or more. All of them have already been vetted and approved for travel to the U.S. This will be a herculean undertaking that will change the lives of those new arrivals forever. We need your help!

    2. Property Expansion Project: We are raising $600,000 to build out our new Refugee Welcome Center with classrooms and office space to house our refugee programs. As of November 14, we have raised $204,000 in lead gifts toward this need! This is a game-changing opportunity for Mission Adelante. Would you consider giving to support this need?

Please watch this update video for more information and details.


This is Our Time


This is Our Time

by Jarrett Meek, Founder/Pastor/Executive Director



Mission Adelante, like the rest of the world, is digesting the results of the U.S. presidential election.  Given our experiences during the previous Trump presidency and the rhetoric and policy statements that have been made regarding immigrants and refugees during the recent campaign, we are anticipating a challenging season for our community and a disruption in the government programs for refugee resettlement and support.  

Nevertheless, Mission Adelante is resolute in our commitment to serve the immigrant and refugee communities in Kansas City.  We have been swimming against the cultural current for 19 years and we have been forged in the fire of unfavorable political policies and harsh public rhetoric for much of our history as a ministry.  And yet, our passion for “loving people from all places” grows only stronger when those we are called to serve are marginalized.  The ears of our hearts become even more attentive when we hear Jesus say, “I was a stranger and you welcomed me”.  Mission Adelante exists, in part, to stand in the gap for vulnerable people whose worth others may not recognize.

We are not alone in our conviction and commitment to compassionate action.  We have seen churches, schools, businesses, organizations, and individuals throughout the metro area and the region rise to the occasion and join us in serving, sharing life, and sharing Jesus with our neighbors from all places.  When our resilient and courageous community of immigrants and refugees is joined by Americans who are serious about “loving our neighbor as ourselves”, a powerful “new we” emerges that challenges the “us vs. them” narrative. 

Friends, this is our time.  And when I say “our time”, I mean a collective “OUR” that includes YOU.  This is our collective time to shine and we need YOU to be part of the WE.  Over the coming weeks, we will be rolling out some new and timely ways for you to engage.  Please stay tuned!  Whether through praying, serving, or giving, we invite you to join us in loving people from all places.

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

Autumn: America’s Favorite Season

Autumn: America’s Favorite Season

by Patrique Harris, Youth Ministry Director




In a 2022 Morning Consult survey of 2,120 U.S. adults, 41% identified fall as their favorite season, while 24% preferred spring and summer, and just 11% chose winter. By a landslide, fall seems to be America’s favorite season! However, I must admit that after ten years of living in the United States, I’ve never fully understood its appeal. The crisp weather and falling leaves typically remind me that winter is fast approaching. This autumn, though, has been different. The lingering summer warmth and a few delightful moments have shifted my perspective on the season. Here are some of my fall favorites so far!

CCDA Conference in Portland, Oregon

In early October, eight members of our Mission Adelante team journeyed to Portland, Oregon, for the Christian Community Development Association’s (CCDA) National Conference. This annual gathering brings together community development practitioners from across the country. This was my third conference experience, but my very first time in Portland—and on the West Coast, for that matter! The 2024 theme, 'Home,' drew inspiration from Jeremiah 29:5: 'Build homes, and plan to stay. Plant gardens and eat the food they produce.' As always, the conference included vibrant worship, networking, and thought-provoking plenaries and workshops. Most speakers reflected on what home means to them—not just in a physical sense, but also in terms of belonging and connection.

As I navigated the conference, I pondered various facets of my home(s). I’ve had several addresses—St. Catherine, Jamaica; Middletown, CT; New York, NY; and now Kansas City, KS—which have shaped my complex experience with belonging. While I’ve been privileged to move to new, welcoming homes voluntarily, it often feels like pieces of my belonging are scattered across the places I’ve lived and the people I’ve shared life with, never feeling fully woven into any one community.

The conference beautifully allowed me to process these challenging realities while refreshing myself in a new place—and Oregon did not disappoint! A few of us rented a minivan and traveled from downtown Portland to Cannon Beach (I learned that parts of the Twilight film were shot there). The beach was a stark contrast to the tropical shores I was used to—definitely too cold for a swim—but the misty air and massive sea stack rock formations rising from the water were spectacular! On our way back, I convinced Carla to pull over so we could hug one of the majestic pine trees together!

Apple Picking at Cider Hill Family Orchard

This fall, I also participated in a quintessential autumn activity: apple picking! One beautiful Sunday afternoon, my mom and I visited Cider Hill Family Orchard, a lovely property on the edge of Wyandotte County. As you can imagine, it was bustling with friends and families that had the same idea as my mom and I. The last time I went apple picking was in 2019, and it was my mom’s first time picking American apples, so we were both excited! The highlight was discovering the delicious Evercrisp variety—a cross between Fuji and Honeycrisp apples. It is the perfect mix of sweetness and crunch, and I honestly think it’s the best apple I’ve ever tasted! I enjoyed the experience so much that I did it again, this time with our Mission Adelante Leadership Training Project students!"

Celebrating My 29th Birthday

Another highlight of October was turning 29! A small downside was realizing I probably can no longer refer to myself as a young adult. Still, this birthday felt special because it marked the first time in several years that I could celebrate with the woman who gave me life! On the eve of my birthday, my mom prepared a traditional Jamaican meal—Stew Peas—for our staff at Mission Adelante. Contrary to what the name suggests, it's a stew made with red kidney beans, not green peas. I wish I had taken photos of the meal, but it was gone before I had the chance! Sharing this traditional dish with my work family while enjoying my mother’s company was beautiful. To top off the celebrations, Carla and Veronica took me out for an authentic Kansas City jazz experience at Lonnie’s Reno Club, curated by trumpeter Lonnie McFadden. While I sometimes get the birthday jitters, this year I was filled with gratitude for the wonderful people God has placed in my life.

In many ways, I’ve developed a newfound appreciation for autumn as a season of gathering. The warmth of my relationships and the fresh experiences I’ve enjoyed have made fall a serious contender for my favorite season. As I step into this new year of my life, I will cherish these moments and embrace the joy of these connections.

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our Observation Nights. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

Wrestling with the Wind

Wrestling with the Wind

by Elaine Reimers, Adult Ministry Director



 In 2 Corinthians chapter 12 verses 1-10, the apostle Paul wrote about where his strength in hardship and weakness came from. He recognized, although he wrestled with God as he cried out three times pleading with Him to remove the thorn from his flesh, that God’s grace was sufficient for him because His power is made perfect in weakness (verses 8-9). I am sure many of us can relate to that feeling of a thorn in our flesh. Your thorn could be a chronic illness, a toxic relationship, a living arrangement, or maybe even a painful memory. There are many things that can be considered a thorn in the flesh that seemingly keep us from progressing and can put a damper on achieving our goals and seeing dreams come true. I know I am not the only one who has dreams, goals, and aspirations. There are many things I want to accomplish and see come to fruition before my time on this Earth is up. I (probably selfishly) would like to be able to choose how I spend my time, who I spend my time with, and who I help and how I help them. Of course, there are many other things I would like to be able to control when it comes to what my life is and what it will become; there is nothing easy about surrendering our will for ourselves and voluntarily accepting God’s will for our lives. Although this exchange of wills will probably never be a cut and dried operation, it is important to realize that in our wrestling with God between His and our will, we can discover freedom, joy, and peace about the future that, in all reality, only He knows. 

I was not born with a clue of what I wanted to be when I grew up, but as I have matured into the slightly intellectual person I am today, it has become very clear to me that I still absolutely do not have the slightest clue of what I want to be when I grow up! I could, however, list a myriad of things I do not want to be… Is it really necessary to know, without a doubt, what I want to do for the balance of my life? Do I have to have it all together and know what I’ll be doing a year from now? Ten years from now? So much of what we see and hear today tries its best to make us think that without a plan we will be left behind, and our life will be meaningless and worthless. We unknowingly search for guidance and comfort when we scroll through posts and blogs on social media as we also struggle with the fear of missing out. But, wait, what happens when a quiet and subtle voice says “My child, you don’t have to do all that- you’re doing too much. You’re worrying too much. You’re looking in the wrong places. Don’t you see? You’re making your plans without even considering my plans for you..!” Many times, His voice will contradict our false and fleshly sense of autonomy; and it has the invisible power to uproot everything we thought we knew just as a tree is plucked out of the ground by a tornado. 

Unfortunately, our flesh and His will are and will almost never be in agreement. Fortunately, He is the All-Powerful, All-Sovereign, and All-Knowing God and I believe that we can trust Him just as Jeremiah trusted Him when God said to him in Jeremiah 29:11: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” 

Some of you may, or may not, know that I am currently walking through something of a windstorm. I have been wrestling with this wind of God now for soon-to-be three months and did not recognize it for what it is until about a month ago- I am wrestling with my Creator and the Author of my life! I have been unconsciously (okay, also sometimes consciously) plugging both my ears and singing “fa-la-la-la-la-la-la” as loud as I can to drown out the wind swirling around me that just won’t let up. I feel it pushing and pulling me in all directions out of nowhere. I have tried to hold my tree to the ground and keep those roots covered, safe, and undisturbed because, (and I shout to the wind, crying and in deep despair): “before this all happened I was just fine! My tree was growing strong and steady! I was nurturing it daily. It had the perfect amount of branches and flowers. I laid under it daily, mesmerized with its growing beauty, and it protected me.” I have verbalized my feelings of discomfort, loss, anger, and disappointment to a few people in my circle who have listened to and encouraged me so graciously as I have experienced all of the new branches that are pushing through the surface of my tree’s trunk. They have been witnesses to my wrestling with God as He begins to replace my discomfort with calmness, my loss with gain, my anger with delight, and my disappointment with enjoyment. Praise Jesus for the joy that comes in the morning! I am not all the way there but I know with all my heart that He is the only One who could have pulled me out of the pit I was in just a short while ago- He makes beauty from ashes!

It has been challenging to take life as it has been  inevitably coming at me and to make the best of it regardless of the type of flowers that bloom on my tree’s new branches, but I am a witness to the power of God and His unending love for each of us and I trust that when I finally decide to allow Him to yank the roots out and plant a new thing that it will be wonderful and beautiful and beyond what I could ever think, dream, or imagine! Is it scary to just have that blind faith and allow things to happen to you even amidst all the doubts and questions? Yes! Of course it is! Have I pleaded with God to hurry up and get me past this situation so my life can go back to normal? One hundred percent! Have I told Him what my plans were before this and how I will never be able to fulfill my dreams and reach my goals if I have to stay in this for even one more day? Yes… and that sweet, small, subtle voice replies: “My daughter, what if you can do both? What if you do this for Me and you can fulfill your dreams also? I will help you. Trust me. Can’t you just trust Me?” I cannot truthfully say that when I look up at my tree from my place of repose beneath it that I don’t see branches I would like to prune (or to just completely cut off), but I am choosing to trust that God knows what is best for me and that, although I feel weak and weakened by the unexpected calamities around me, that His grace is sufficient for me; and I echo Paul when he wrote: “Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:9-10, NIV) 

I would like to encourage each one of you reading this to consider that maybe our wrestlings with God don’t have to be a time to compare His will against ours. Maybe it’s a time to allow God to wrestle with our flesh on our behalf and conform it to Him. Maybe your wrestling with Him looks and feels nothing like mine. I believe what is most important is that we are wrestling because that is when we are the most connected to Him and the most open to hearing what He has to say. Let’s unplug our ears and suit up for the matches to come. It’s worth it! You are worth it! He is worth it. God bless you, in Jesus’ name. Amen and amen.

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our Observation Nights. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

Breaking Down Language Barriers: Empowering Immigrants Through Communication

Breaking Down Language Barriers: Empowering Immigrants Through Communication

by Veronica Garcia, Refugee Education Director


Language is one of the biggest challenges faced by immigrants and refugees when they arrive in a new country. It affects almost every aspect of their lives, from finding employment to accessing healthcare, forming social connections, and even completing basic tasks like grocery shopping or understanding public transportation. At Mission Adelante, we recognize that breaking down these language barriers is crucial to helping newcomers thrive in their new communities.

Our ESL classes are more than just an educational program; they are a place where immigrants and refugees can build community. Learning a new language in a supportive environment allows them to connect with others who are facing similar challenges, creating a sense of belonging. Friendships are formed, support systems are built, and students encourage one another to keep pushing forward, even when the lessons feel difficult.

The Role of Volunteers in Breaking Down Language Barriers

Our dedicated volunteers play a vital role in this process. Many of them come from the greater Kansas City area and work one-on-one with students, offering guidance, encouragement, and practical language. The connections formed between students and volunteers often go beyond the classroom, fostering a deeper sense of community integration. Thankful is an understatement when I think about the impact of our ESL volunteers, past and present! 

Volunteers help personalize the learning experience, addressing individual challenges students may face and ensuring that each person has the support they need to succeed.

Mission Adelante is continuing to expand our ESL programs and offering accessible language support. We aim to equip every immigrant and refugee in our community with the tools they need to flourish.

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our Observation Nights. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

One Year of Welcoming Refugees

ONE YEAR OF Welcoming Refugees

by Kristen Maxwell, Refugee Resettlement Director

Let me tell you a story of a remarkable journey—the journey of our first year of Refugee Resettlement at Mission Adelante. If you didn't know, refugee resettlement programs run on the government's fiscal year, meaning we opened our doors to the possibility of welcoming refugees on October 1, 2023. However, we didn't see our first case arrive until the end of January 2024; from January through June, we received a steady flow of cases, with 40 clients over five months. We were just over halfway to meeting our goal of welcoming 75 individuals in the year. We had seen clients from Afghanistan, Eritrea, Sudan, Nicaragua, The Congo, Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela.  

Then, we received a call from the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM), requesting organizations to increase their numbers to meet the overwhelming need for resettlement. After discussion and prayer, we received permission from our State Refugee Coordinator to increase our resettlement goal for the year to 100 individuals. We welcomed 60 new Americans to Kansas City from early July to mid-September. We began to see our first clients settling in, establishing themselves in our community, calling this new place their home, and turning around to welcome other newcomers.

One thing we didn't account for was how, in our agreement with PRM, they are allowed to send us up to an additional 10% of our designated goal, so we ended up rounding out the year welcoming an additional ten people in the last few days of September, with 9 of them arriving on the very last day of Fiscal Year 2024, wrapping up our year with 110 new Kansas Citians!

When we welcomed our first couple on January 25, 2024, none of us could have predicted the growth our team would undergo. We’ve expanded from 1.5 staff members to 8 full-time team members. This growth is a testament to our dedication and the success of our program, the commitment to welcoming well, and because of the partnership of World Relief and the Kansas Office of Refugees. We now have programs catering to employment, medical, and English needs. Some of our clients and their children have joined in with the other programs hosted by Mission Adelante. We've also witnessed the Church of Kansas City extending the warmest of welcomes to our new friends, and for this, we are incredibly grateful! 

Help Our Refugee Families

Your impact is huge for our refugee families! Currently, we are in need of:

  • Toys that are clean and in good shape for kids under the age of 3

  • Hygiene kits

  • Vacuums

You can also volunteer to help with administrative tasks like creating client files and notebooks and other resources.

For more information on how to be a part of this effort, contact our Reception and Placement Director, Amy Herman, at randpdirector@missionadelante.org.

Be part of our programs!

 We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our volunteer Orientation. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

Thank you, Mission Adelante!

Thank you, Mission Adelante!

by Ryan Galue

My name is Ryan Galue, and today I want to share about my journey with Mission Adelante, the U.S. resettlement agency. I am Venezuelan and have been living in Colombia for nearly five years, where I managed to obtain legal status. This legal status was crucial, as one of the main requirements for participating in the resettlement program is having legal residency in Colombia. After several interviews, medical exams, and cultural orientation sessions, I finally received the life-changing news—I had been accepted into the program and would soon be traveling to the United States.

That moment was filled with immense joy. Achieving something I had long dreamed of, and doing so through a legal process, was an incredible feeling. But soon after the excitement came the inevitable doubts. What would the process be like? How would I be received? How would I be treated? I was about to emigrate again, starting from scratch, but I always remembered it wouldn’t be my first time.

The day of my departure finally arrived. The agency in Colombia supported me with excellence, from the moment they picked me up at my home in Colombia until I arrived at the airport and eventually at my first destination. I had mixed feelings and felt a lot of anxiety, but the thought that I would now be in a better position to support my family helped me calm down. After my first flight, I boarded another plane to Kansas City, Kansas, which is where I currently live.

Upon arriving at the airport in Kansas, I was warmly welcomed by people from Mission Adelante. A group of women greeted me with so much kindness, filling me with joy and confidence, which helped ease my anxiety. Mission Adelante has been a pillar throughout this process, assisting me with everything from the moment I arrived. They’ve helped me obtain all the necessary legal documents, guided me through the medical process, assisted with food, and helped me find a welcoming place to live where I could feel at home.

One of the most emotional moments came when I moved into my current apartment and saw photos of my family—people I love and miss dearly. I hope that one day soon, I’ll be able to have them here with me. For this, I owe a massive thank you and blessings to Mission Adelante and their entire team. From the person who picked me up at the airport to the ones helping with all my paperwork, I wish them all the best and hope that God continues to guide and support their excellent work.

P.S. As a proud Venezuelan from Maracaibo, I showed my gratitude by making empanadas for the staff at Mission Adelante—and now, they LOVE them! 🙂

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to Observation Nights. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

A Sisters Love

A Sister’s Love

by Carla Garcia, Kids Ministry Director


I was the oldest sister in my family growing up, which meant having a lot of responsibility over my two younger brothers. My parents both worked two jobs and being an immigrant family meant there was always a financial goal to be working on. My parents were around before going to work early in the morning and then arrived back home late at night. This meant I was responsible for my brothers during the daytime. 

When school was in session, my workload was cut in half since I’d only be in charge of my brothers during the evening. I would make them meals, make sure they did their homework, and walk them to and from school. For the majority of my childhood and adolescence, it felt like I was a third parent in my household. Due to this familial dynamic, my brothers and I grew very close. Till this day they share their worries and struggles with me, are elated to celebrate their victories with me, and count on me for support and guidance in their adult lives. 

My family was not religious growing up, in fact, we only went to church for special occasions, and maybe only prayed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. My childhood was one that was full of turmoil and lacked hope. My life changed forever as a young adult when I met Jesus, it was like a light had been turned on in my life. Since that moment, I have a renewed sense of hope – A hope that is so big and so strong that no matter what comes my way, I know I will be standing firmly on solid ground. After this key moment in my life, I would pray from time to time for my family to have this same experience.

Recently, my baby brother began working with me at Mission Adelante. It has been so rewarding and fulfilling to see him step up as a leader and begin learning skills that will help him in the future. He is great with the kids, has invested so much time and care into his relationship with them, and has brought so many new fun ideas to our ministry team. Many times, I find myself pondering and treasuring these things in my heart like Mary in Luke 2:19.


But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.   Luke 2:19 NIV

My heart was so full the first time I heard my baby brother pray at our staff huddle. Like Mary, I knew it was nothing that I had done - it was the Lord, who had a plan for my brother, all along, and the time had arrived for me to bear witness. I continue to pray for the rest of my family to encounter Jesus in a way that is so powerful, so tangible, so clear. But for now I watch Erick closely, relishing in his new found hope and admiring all that the Lord is doing in him and through him.

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our Observation Nights. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

Year 19: Crazy Growth!


Year 19: Crazy Growth!

by Jarrett Meek, Founder/Pastor/Executive Director



There have been many exciting seasons at Mission Adelante since our launch in 2005. The initial launch phase was a thrilling adventure, engaging new volunteers, connecting with neighbors, and developing brand new ministry programs.  Five years later, we were exploring a ministry to Bhutanese-Nepali refugees and expanding our impact.  In 2015, we launched Adelante Thrift, a major milestone in sustainable entrepreneurship. This year, 2024, is another year of unprecedented growth and new endeavors at Mission Adelante.

Refugee Resettlement: It’s safe to say, we didn’t really know what we were getting ourselves into when we said,”yes” to resettling refugees, but secretly, we had a hunch it would exceed our expectations.  Indeed, the refugee resettlement journey has been an exhilarating challenge that has doubled the size of our ministry impact!  As we approach the end of September, we will have received 103 individuals, orienting them, housing them, getting them medical care, enrolling the kids in schools, and caring for their critical needs during their first months in the the U.S.  Our Refugee Services staff has grown from 1.5 to seven team members, we’ve engaged over 50 new volunteers, and our overall budget has nearly doubled.  The real noteworthy part of this is that we’ve accomplished these impossible feats, building the team, creating the systems, and doing the work, in the first nine months of the year!

Core Ministry Programs: Our core Ministry Programs have seen more qualitative growth through 2024 than growth in numbers.  Leadership development through our kids and youth ministries has produced a crop of youth interns and an a couple of young adult apprentices who demonstrate the kind of gifts and character that we dream about seeing in our young people.

Transitions: A few weeks ago, our staff team got away for a day for a staff retreat.  As we were sitting around the room sharing about our Gallup Strengths Finder results, I was keenly aware that our team has many new faces.  In addition to adding a whole new refugee services team, another part of this year’s craziness has been transitions other in key roles.  From Michelle Simbaqueva and Rachel Yeargin joining our team in important operations roles, Yanelis López switching out of her Associate Director role to serve on our Refugee Team, and more recently, Luis Magaña’s transition, in a lot of ways, our team is being re-built for our exciting future. 

Construction: In January we acquired the commercial building adjacent our main property.  Early in the year we worked hard with architects and engineers to put together an awesome plan for our new refugee welcome center, which will house staff offices, classrooms, and storage space for our refugee services ministry.  After submitting our plans to the city, we’ve been in a long holding pattern as we’ve awaited the proper permits to begin our work.  In the meantime, we’ve hired Tate Williams’ CoBuild, Inc, as our General Contractor, and we’re preparing to launch another fundraising campaign to raise $550,000 for this project.    

In short, 2024 has been a year of exhilarating growth and all the challenges that come with big, new endeavors. As we look toward the last quarter of the year and forward to our 20th Anniversary next year, we invite you to pray with us for God’s favor, His energy, and His guidance to walk faithfully in the opportunities He is laying before us.

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our Observation Nights. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

To a New Beginning

To a New Beginning

By Erick Flores, Ministry Apprentice

I’m just at a loss for words on how my start at Mission Adelante has gone. I needed a new job as I was trying my best to leave a toxic and unhappy work environment. My older sister, Carla, showed me an open position at Mission Adelante, and suddenly the Lord blessed me with an open door to a whole new world of possibilities. Patrique reached out to me with a job offer and I happily accepted it. I prepared myself for weeks as I was entering a new journey in life.

I joined halfway into the second trimester of programs, which meant I was unable to get an easy start. Luckily, I was able to jump right in where I was needed and did a decent job! With an amazing staff welcoming me into Mission Adelante, I felt like I was home. We also had an amazing Summer Intern group and I built the best relationships with every single one of them. On top of that, Arts Camp started my second week of work, and it went amazing! Mikya did a great job teaching me how to be a leader; she’ll be handing off her throne to me as I will lead Arts Camp next year. Mikya did a great job passing on her responsibilities. I feel very prepared with no stress at all! Patrique also gave me an overview of Youth Club. I have started to get more and more comfortable leading some weeks and have grown my relationships with so many youth!  

Spending the summer with the interns definitely gave me brain rot! But in all honesty, I couldn’t have gotten through the summer without the interns. They just made every day fun and they would always come in with a smile on their faces, ready to spend the day learning! Even on a tough day, they just knew how to make me laugh and get me in a better mood. Joining them on their internship activities, I was able to learn more about the value of the internship, learn more about the city, and give back to the community by doing community service. I just loved seeing in the little time I had with them how they matured over the summer and were becoming young adults. I have very high hopes for their future! 

It makes me very happy that I was able to conclude this summer with end-of-trimester parties and retreats! At Arts Community, we had a dance party! At Youth Club, we played Olympic games and had a Lake House Retreat last weekend! At Kids Adelante, we ended with a water slide party! The Interns had a weekend away from KC to clear their minds before they entered the school year. And to top it all off, we threw a big summer party! It was definitely a very successful summer and I look forward to the third trimester when all our programs resume again! I’m going to end this article with a passage in the bible I looked up to as I was entering Mission Adelante, Proverbs 16:3 “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans”. I trusted the Lord to take me wherever he desires and He found the perfect home for me. 

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our Observation Nights. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

How Newcomers Are Helping Others Find Their Way

From Refugee to Resilient: How Newcomers Are Helping Others Find Their Way

By Amy Herman, Initial Resettlement Director



Have you faced a tough time in your life?  Did you go through something you thought no one could ever relate to?  If so, what did you do on the other side of that trial?

Every week, I am amazed by the resilience of our refugee friends, who are escaping challenges we can’t begin to comprehend.  From the moment we receive them at the airport from their emotionally exhausting journey, you can feel the apprehension and anxiety, but also a sense of relief.  We always attempt to make our new friends as comfortable as we can with smiles, hugs or handshakes, and even fun welcoming signage letting them know we are so happy to meet them!

As we take the long, daunting walk down the gate corridor towards the baggage claim,  you can feel their uneasiness.   We gather their luggage and take the family  to their temporary accommodations.  For the next 90 days, our new friends will go through many things.  Lots of paperwork, doctor’s appointments, cultural orientation, school enrollment, job searches, and so much more.  The first 90 days, known as the reception and placement period, are very busy.  Our refugee friends experience many emotions.  Thankfulness, depression, hopefulness and hopelessness, inclusion, and acceptance can be among those.  

One of our answers to helping our new friends learn about life in the United States, is called a Good Neighbor Team (GNT).  These caring groups of volunteers from businesses, churches, the community and small groups come alongside our families for 6-12 months and forge beautiful friendships.

While our existing Good Neighbor Teams consist of those mentioned above, I recently sat down in a classroom at Mission Adelante, across from three of our refugee friends and a co-worker, who want to take their experience and give back to other refugees who are coming after them!  These amazing friends want to form their own GNT! 

As we poured over our coffee these three women told us about their experiences the last several months. We shared laughter of things they didn’t know upon their arrival, but now completely understand.  They cried over the things they have experienced and the family and friends they had to leave behind.  They marveled over the things they are grateful for like clean running water that they can access more than once a month, beds to sleep on, Good Neighbor Teams, even an amazing landlord who has become family and taught them so many things and all of the staff of Mission Adelante.   They shared some of their amazing ideas that I have no doubt we will be implementing very soon.   When I asked them what they miss most about their home countries, they responded that it is their family.   But, each of them reflected that their Good Neighbor Teams, their landlord, other refugee families and Mission Adelante have become their family.  I am humbled watching these friends wanting to use what they have gone through and turn their trial into a triumph and give back in such a relational way.

When I took this job in March of this year, I prayed that our newly arriving friends would feel welcomed and cared for and I looked forward to opening my heart to new relationships.  I never imagined how quickly these amazing leaders would emerge from within our refugee community.  I have seen many things like this over the last 6 months.  One man donated a bicycle to Mission Adelante, which he had used for months to commute to work, now that he has a car.  3 other men reached out to let me know when they get off work and if we need them to go welcome people from their countries at the airport or move furniture or set up apartments, they would be there!  

At Mission Adelante we have several core values.  Four that stand out to me this week are Prayer, Developing Leaders, Love for Neighbor, Interdependent relationships.  I am so grateful for these emerging leaders who want to love their newly arriving refugee neighbors the way they were loved and cared for when they arrived in KC.  

If you would like to join a Good Neighbor Team, contact randpdirector@missionadelante.org or sign up this week for our training session on Saturday, September 7, 2024, from 9:00 to 11:30.   https://missionadelante.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/134/responses/new.  

A Good Neighbor Team who completed an apartment set up

LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES?
JOIN US FOR VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION - SEPTEMBER 7TH AT 9:00M

Join our team of volunteers for the summer trimester and be part of "loving people from all places." Attend our volunteer orientation on September 7th, 2024 and find your place serving kids, youth, or adults in the immigrant community in KCK

For more information about volunteer opportunities visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/orientation

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our Observation Nights. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

Finding a Home

Finding a home

By Caleb Miller, Refugee Empowerment Director

The summer before I turned 16, I found out that my family would be moving to Minnesota. Any move is a big deal in one way or another, but I’d never lived in the Midwest before. In fact, my family had been living outside the US for the past 8 years, where my dad had been teaching at an international university in Prague, Czech Republic. Soon, the implications of switching schools halfway through high school, leaving my childhood community, and starting over in a country that felt foreign and strange began to sink in. There would be culture shock as I’d have to go from a class of 4 kids with 4 passport countries to a class of 400. Though, to be fair, there would end up being about the same amount of countries represented. We didn’t have any friends or family in Minnesota. I had been able to take public transportation wherever I wanted for years, but now I would have to go to driving school and get hours and borrow the car anytime I wanted to go anywhere else. It was daunting. When we arrived, people began to ask where I was from and if I said the Czech Republic, they’d ask why my English was so good. But it didn’t feel like I was from the US - I’d lived in Dallas until I was 8 and barely remembered any of it. I started having to figure out what home was and realized I might not have one, at least in the sense that most of my classmates in Minnesota did.

^ First family picture in our new home in Prague

Let’s fast forward a bit.

I’m Caleb, and I started working at Mission Adelante four months ago. My position has shifted a bit since then, but currently I’m on the Ongoing Services side of our Refugee Resettlement team. One of my main priorities is helping our refugees find employment, but our Ongoing Services team also oversees programs such as ESL, Cultural Orientation, and Refugee Cash and Medical Assistance. I help our refugee clients set goals, make resumes, apply for jobs, and learn about work life and expectations here. It’s been a joy to work with refugees from 4 continents, but I can’t help but think about how they’ll also have to figure out how to answer questions about where they are from and where home is. Unlike me, however, they were forced to leave their homes. 

I don’t know about you, but for something to be home, it had to be safe, comfortable, and familiar. After Dallas, Prague, Minnesota, Michigan for college, and now Kansas City, I don’t feel like I can say I have one place I consider home. Many of my friends have moved around, my parents are now in Idaho, and my brother is almost off to Switzerland for the rest of the year, so all of the pieces that comprise home (family, places, friends, memories, sights, smells) are scattered. Instead, I have pockets of home that meet the criteria of safe, comfortable, and familiar. For a while, making sense of my identity was tough because it felt scattered and hard to define until eventually I realized that it’s actually wide-reaching and diverse. 

But these last four months of working with refugees has challenged my definition of home. Unsurprisingly, they overwhelmingly still consider their native countries to be home. However, the reason they had to leave was because it had become unsafe, uncomfortable, and had often changed in some way that made it unfamiliar compared to what it used to be. What is home, then? The people and places and memories in my life still feel like home, and mine just happen to feel safe, comfortable, and familiar. So what else is it? I suppose home is really just a combination of the things we feel we belong to and the things that belong to us. 

Our refugees have a long road ahead of them in search of belonging here in the US. Some things we can help with and many are outside of our control. We can throw a man in his late 30s his first birthday party, give a kid their first toy, or celebrate a first car. We can’t erase the trauma that ironically allowed them the opportunity to come here, learn the language for them, or ensure those they meet outside of our team treat them with respect and patience as they figure things out. 

Despite having to move to several new and unfamiliar places, I’ve been able to make each of the spots feel a bit like home, and I’m excited for Mission Adelante to become a place where I can find belonging as I enter its community. Thanks for having me!

We each have our own unique relationship with the concept of home, but our refugees’ are distinct and sometimes it’s hard to know how to help. There are a few ways you can get involved that would be particularly helpful: 

Employment: We are always in search of companies that may have good opportunities available for our clients. Often these are entry level positions, and if there is any assistance with transportation, that’s a major plus. You can contact me at rssdirector@missionadelante.org if you have any leads in mind.

English Classes: We offer English classes on Monday nights for our refugees and are always looking for more volunteers. We will also be starting an additional class on Thursday mornings and would love to have volunteers assist with this as well. If you’re interested, you can email veronicag@missionadelante.org.

Good Neighbor Teams: One of the best ways to help our new families is to start a Good Neighbor Team. These teams are groups of around 8 who want to come alongside a new family in any number of ways. Often times, GNT’s will help take clients to appointments, study for the driving test, or set up their apartments. But it may also look like taking the family to the park, showing them around Kansas City, or having them over for dinner. If you want to learn more or would like to start a team, shoot an email to randpdirector@missionadelante.org

LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES?
JOIN US FOR VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION - SEPTEMBER 7TH AT 9:00M

Join our team of volunteers for the summer trimester and be part of "loving people from all places." Attend our volunteer orientation on September 7th, 2024 and find your place serving kids, youth, or adults in the immigrant community in KCK

For more information about volunteer opportunities visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/orientation

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our Observation Nights. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

What a Summer!

what a summer!

by Patrique Harris, Youth Ministry Director




There are many things I love about summer – predictably warm weather, enduring sunshine, afternoon ice cream, strappy sandals, floating in peaceful waters, and of course, obnoxiously cheering Jamaican athletes in the Olympics! To add to all that joy, the ministry that happens at Mission Adelante in the summer months is abundant and life-giving. 

With school out, the busy teenage schedule finally yields, spawning a golden time for our Youth Ministry. New and old participants bonded each Tuesday and Wednesday over intense games, indulgent food, and heartfelt discussions on Daniel’s courage! What’s more, our summer interns, Eli, Sonia, Unisha, and Keziah, were integral in curating the program experiences for our participants. Their fervor, creativity, and Gen Z slang were invaluable and made all the difference!  

Not only did we welcome our summer interns, but we were also thrilled to have Erick Flores join the Mission Adelante family as a Ministry Apprentice. After graduating from J.C. Harmon High School in the spring, Erick was moved to pursue a vocation serving kids and youth in his neighborhood. His experience participating in Mission Adelante programs in years past truly impressed upon him. He recalls the support he felt when mentors like Megan McDermott Fountain invested in him, especially during difficult seasons of his life. 

Following in Megan’s footsteps, Erick passionately walked alongside our summer interns. His team-building efforts (including debates on songs to add to the summer intern playlist), encouragement during long days of engaging kids and youth, and his counsel on matters big and small, helped the interns to thrive! Carla, Mikya, and I were honestly impressed.

To sum it all up in Jamaican terms, “mi glad bag buss”! In translation, “my glad bag burst”, which I would liken to the sentiments of David in Psalm 23:5 when his “cup runneth over.” The summer interns, program participants, volunteers, and even Erick’s arrival, were all answered prayers for us as a ministry team. God’s immense goodness was made manifest here in KCK this summer – and I get to bear witness!

LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES?
JOIN US FOR VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION - SEPTEMBER 7TH AT 9:00M

Join our team of volunteers for the summer trimester and be part of "loving people from all places." Attend our volunteer orientation on September 7th, 2024 and find your place serving kids, youth, or adults in the immigrant community in KCK

For more information about volunteer opportunities visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/orientation

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our Observation Nights. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

Tenacity Amidst the Troubles & Trials

Tenacity Amidst the Troubles & Trials

by Elaine Reimers, Adult Ministry Director


A simple Google search for the definition of the word tenacity brought me to the well-known section of “People Also Ask” questions and one of the questions listed was: “What does it mean if someone has tenacity?” Merriam-Webster Dictionary’s answer to this question is: “Tenacious is a mostly positive term. If someone calls you tenacious you're probably the kind of person who never gives up and never stops trying – someone who does whatever is required to accomplish a goal. You may also be very stubborn.” Although there are a few definitions listed, a definition of tenacity according to Google is: “the quality or fact of being able to grip something firmly; grip.”

I read this and immediately thought about the level of spiritual tenacity we as believers are having to develop in the middle of our personal and family life trials and troubles, not to mention in all of the chaos going on in the world we live in. Time continues to tick towards the return of the Lord and it seems that we must tighten the grip we have on our beliefs and our faith the closer we get. As the end times seemingly unfold before our eyes, how do we manage to remain steadfast in our walk and continue to fight the good fight? When nations are rising against nations and a pandemic claims the lives of around 7 million people (including people near and dear to us), how do we keep going? Although I don’t believe there are any wrong answers to these questions (provided that the answers help people to live a tenacious and God-pleasing life), I do know that God calls us to press on no matter what!

You don’t have to read very far into the Holy Bible to come across what I believe to be the very first example of tenacity- like EVER! Genesis 1:1 begins the story of the six days of the creation of the Heavens and the earth “in all their vast array” (Gen. 2:1, NIV). Then, after all of His tenacious work, Genesis 2:2 states that “on the seventh day God had finished the work He had been doing; so on the seventh day He rested from all His work. And God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it He rested from all the work of creating that He had done” (NIV). Most of us can’t get through five days of work without feeling exhausted and overwhelmed, and that’s normally only 40 to 50 hours per week. The way I interpret the story of creation is that God worked tirelessly and relentlessly for 6 days straight! That is 144 hours of non-stop creative thinking and speaking things into existence. Psalm 121:3 (NIV) tells us that He neither slumbers nor sleeps. Now, I know we can never measure up to an all-powerful God on any level, but I have to believe that we embody at least a smidge of His tenacity since we were in fact made in His image and likeness (Gen.1:26, NIV). Although we will never be as great as the Great I AM, His example of tenacity in the story of creation is certainly inspiring and absolutely unique!

The other example of tenacity that stood out to me is from the Gospel of Luke. In chapter 18, verses 1 through 8, Jesus tells the disciples another one of His many simple (but OH-SO-GOOD!) parables about a careless and godless judge who, for some time, refused to grant a widow justice against her adversaries. The unnamed widow diligently and unceasingly pleaded with him until, due to her stubborn (or tenacious) will for justice, he finally granted it to her saying that even though he doesn’t fear God or care about people, he would grant justice to her so she would stop bothering him! Scripture states that Jesus shared this story with the Twelve to encourage them to pray and not give up. He closed the storytime asking the disciples if the godless and careless judge granted the widow justice, won’t God grant justice to His chosen ones who cry out day and night? Jesus promised not to put us off, and He promised justice, and quickly even! 

It is so comforting to know that we don’t have to fight for justice and for things to be made right. We serve a God- THE God -who created the Heavens and the earth. He understands our exhaustion and our worries completely and He knows exactly what we need and when. We have access to Him through prayer and, believe it or not, we have permission to “bother” Him with our needs and concerns according to the previously mentioned parable straight from the mouth of Jesus. I encourage you as I encourage myself with this: No matter what you’re going through…don’t give up! No! Don’t give in, don’t stop, hang in there, stay strong, and never say die because God’s Word says “blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him” (James 1:12, NIV).

LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES?
JOIN US FOR VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION - SEPTEMBER 7TH AT 9:00M

Join our team of volunteers for the summer trimester and be part of "loving people from all places." Attend our volunteer orientation on September 7th, 2024 and find your place serving kids, youth, or adults in the immigrant community in KCK

For more information about volunteer opportunities visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/orientation

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our Observation Nights. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

There’s still a still small voice



There’s still a still small voice

Written by Dan Taylor, Partner Engagement Volunteer.


In the Old Testament book of 1 Kings, the prophet Elijah is looking for an answer from God to the chaos that surrounds him. He gets that answer in chapter 19, verses 11-12…

… the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind shook the mountains… but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: and after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice….

This happened several thousand years before the internet. And several thousand years before cable news. And before Facebook, or Instagram, or Twitter, (or X, as it’s called now), and certainly before TikTok. But in some ways, Elijah was having a very modern experience.

He wanted to hear from God, but God wasn’t in the dramatic, loud, obvious things around him. God did not have the largest number of fans, He didn’t have the most followers, He didn’t even have a lot of “likes.”

There’s a lesson here for us as we look for insight from God today. God knows us, understands us, and loves us, as individuals. He doesn’t love your state, or your county, or your neighborhood.

He loves you.

He wants to support you and guide you to a life full of blessings, but He isn’t going to shout at you. No one is going to forward you God’s direction for your life, He’s not posting anything. The G in GPS doesn’t stand for God.

God is in the quiet things, the subtle things, the things that seem small. A little urge to do something selfless for someone. An impulse to ask how someone’s doing. A moment where you turn off and shut out everything that isn’t God, that’s where you find God.

No one else can do this for you. There certainly isn’t a site, or a channel, or a newsfeed that will do it. But in quiet moments, away from the seemingly constant noisy voices that crash and bang and shake the world, there is still a still small voice.

LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES?
JOIN US FOR VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION - SEPTEMBER 7TH AT 9:00M

Join our team of volunteers for the summer trimester and be part of "loving people from all places." Attend our volunteer orientation on September 7th, 2024 and find your place serving kids, youth, or adults in the immigrant community in KCK

For more information about volunteer opportunities visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/orientation

BE PART OF OUR PROGRAMS!

 We are so excited for everything that is happening in our programs and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us next trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our volunteer Orientation. For more information visit: http://www.missionadelante.org/serve

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.