Sisters in Christ
by Carla Flores, Kids Ministry Director
It is so important to have friends that understand you, see and validate you, and encourage you. I am blessed to have a group of friends here with me at work that do just that. Mikya, Patrique, Veronica, and I have become close friends in the past year. It all began with a very important question, “Did you bring lunch today?” It just so happened that none of us had brought anything and we were starving after our staff huddle. We headed out for burritos at Bonito Michoacan and a friendship was formed.
These friends understand me when I share about faith, my difficulties as a teacher, and even very personal struggles too. They hear me, validate my feelings, and give the best advice. Patrique pushes me to “step on toes” and be more direct about what makes me uncomfortable. At first, this was difficult for me because I tend to be very passive and just take what I am given. I love how Patrique advocates for herself and those around her and pushed me to do the same. I can say that since I’ve been friends with Patrique, I have grown to learn how to defend myself and push back to create good boundaries for myself. She inspires me to not just accept and settle with the cards that I’ve been dealt but instead shuffle the cards and choose for myself.
These friends also make me smile and laugh in the face of adversity. Recently, I was overwhelmed with confusion and sadness for changes in family with my parents and siblings. I’ve always had to be the peacemaker in my family and now I had to create boundaries to ensure that my husband, daughter, and I were not dragged into situations that could affect our peace and happiness at home. It was difficult but after sharing with my friends about what happened, it became much more light. We laughed at the silliness of the situation. Veronica is great at helping me see that. She helps me understand that there is laughter and goofiness in serious situations. That things will eventually work out and that in the meantime a smile and a little laughter will help too. Veronica is easy going, funny, and always comes up with the best lunch spots. She inspires me to laugh at life especially in those moments where it can all seem so dark.
These friends also have the most comforting, encouraging words. As a teacher to so many kids, I can come across some pretty difficult situations. From being behind in math to very serious issues like developing unhealthy coping mechanisms and even abuse. Through it all, Mikya is always there to share an encouraging message. She sees me, the work I do, and the passion I do it with. She also understands that these heavy situations weigh me down and can overwhelm me. She is always there to comfort and motivate me with inspiring words. It can be as simple as a common look shared across the room or a quick thank you. Mikya inspires me to be more helpful and to encourage those around me just as she has done to me.
Let’s pray: Thank you heavenly Father for the vibrant community you have blessed me with, for friends that make me laugh, push me to grow, and encourage me. Thank you for putting them in my life and giving them a mission and purpose for their life that is similar to mine. I am so grateful I do not have to do this work alone because you have brought amazing friends alongside me. I pray that I can be a great friend to them too, that my ears could fully listen, my mouth would share kindness and compassion, and that You would be drawing us together in a deeper community with one another toward greater unity with you. In Your Son Jesus’ Name, Amen.
LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES?
join us for volunteer orientation - January 13th
Join our team of volunteers for the spring trimester and be part of "loving people from all places." Attend our volunteer orientation on January 13th, 2024 and find your place serving kids, youth, or adults in the immigrant community in KCK
For more information about volunteer opportunities visit www.missionadelante.org/serve
Experience the US/Mexico Border Encounter
You are invited to travel with Westside Family Church to the US/Mexico border the first week of April 2024 to raise awareness and learn firsthand what is happening at our border and more about the plight of refugees that come to our country. The purpose of this trip is to listen, learn, ask questions, and consider how God might have you get involved within Kansas City upon returning home.
If you are interested in joining them this Spring, April 3-6, 2024, click here for more info and to sign up: Border Encounter Application ( The deadline to sign up is December 20.)
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.