Easter around the world

Easter around the world.

by Luis Magana, Partner Engagement Director

Easter is here, and for us it's a time to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While the holiday is celebrated in many different ways across different cultures and countries, what matters most is the reason behind the celebration.


In the US, many families (including mine) attend special church services and have brunch or supper with their loved ones, while others prefer to combine traditions like Easter egg hunts and the Easter Bunny. In Latin America, Easter is known as Semana Santa, a week-long celebration with elaborate procession and parades. Often in Hispanic cultures,  schools and many offices close for the week for people to celebrate by spending time with family and friends. In Ethiopia, Fasika is celebrated with a 55-day fasting period followed by a massive feast.

Greece has a unique way of celebrating Easter with a week of religious observances leading up to the main event. On Holy Thursday, women dye eggs red to symbolize the blood of Christ, and on Holy Saturday, they prepare the traditional lamb meal for Easter Sunday. In Spain, Easter is marked by elaborate processions of statues and figures representing the passion of Christ.

The Philippines observes Holy Week with processions and reenactments of the crucifixion. in Sweden, Easter is celebrated with the lighting of bonfires on Holy Saturday, and in Norway, families gather for a traditional Easter lunch featuring eggs, cured meats, and cheese.

Regardless of how Easter is celebrated around the world, the reason is still the same: to celebrate the resurrection and the hope we find in the Gospel. It's a time to be grateful for the gift of eternal life that was given to us through Jesus. But also, Easter is an opportunity to gather with loved ones, share a meal, and create fun memories.

No matter where you are from or what is your tradition, let’s remember Easter is a celebration of the biggest act of love. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus, we have access directly to God and can receive forgiveness of our sins. Let's take this opportunity to reflect on our faith, express gratitude for all our blessings, and share His love with those around us.

"For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his" (Romans 6:5)

Let's be united in faith as we celebrate Easter around the world. Happy Easter from Mission Adelante.

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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: https://www.missionadelante.org/orientation

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

The Importance of Taking Time for Yourself

The Importance of Taking Time for Yourself

by Veronica Garcia, Refugee Services Manager

I’ll say it. Life is SO busy sometimes. With work, family, friends, and volunteering, it seems like there just aren’t enough hours in the day or in the week. Do you ever say to yourself that you need a break but never take one?

What does “taking a break” look like to you, anyway? We all have different personality types. For me, I am an introvert. Taking a break for me looks like taking a long nap in the afternoon. That helps me recharge. I can’t do that during the work week, but on weekends I make sure I take that time for myself and just get a nap in! Taking time for yourself could be a small gesture like taking a nap to recharge your batteries, but for some it could be going out with friends and temporarily putting your obligations aside (responsibly!).

Taking a break can actually help boost creativity and productivity. If you think to yourself, “I can’t take a break or I’ll never finish my to-do list!” That’s ok! Finish your list and just relax for the night. Or, finish the month strong and then plan a day for yourself. It can be big or small; the point is to just be intentional about your own self-care. 

““Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” - ”
— Romans 12:2

This verse encourages us to take care of ourselves by renewing our minds, which can include engaging in self-care practices such as prayer, bible study, exercise, or hobbies that bring us joy, and that ultimately glorifies God. 

Self-care looks different for everyone, so I won’t tell you how to take care of yourself! Only you know what makes you happy and thrive. At Mission Adelante, we acknowledge that a break is so important! Volunteers do A LOT to keep our programs running smoothly and thrive the way that they are. We are set up in trimesters and have 4-6 week breaks in between so volunteers and participants avoid burnout. Breaks really do promote creativity! The new ideas I’ve seen volunteers come in the following trimester with or new materials they’ve created is amazing. 

If you are a past or current volunteer, I want to say thank you for all your hard work in our programs! I want to especially thank my volunteers in Refugee ESL for their dedication in helping me create the program with innovative ideas, being adaptable, and of course taking time to transport students to and from Mission Adelante. You all deserve some rest! 

If you are a future volunteer or thinking about committing to a trimester, just know that we care about you and what you have going on in life. We value your time and know burnout is real. Our breaks exist for a period of rest, creativity, and gaining some more motivation.

What will you do to disconnect and take a break? While programs are on break in April and most of May, I will be focusing on student recruitment, creating new ideas for Refugee ESL and Citizenship, and connecting with God more. As programs end next week, please take time to recharge. I will be praying for some rest for everyone! 

Be part of our programs!

 We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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.

SUMMER 2023

SUMMER 2023

by Carla Flores, Kids Ministry Director

The year is flying by and I can't believe it is already time to start thinking about Arts Camp 2023 and backpack week!
Last year, Ashley Delgado, our past apprentice, and I were blessed to host over 90 kids for an entire week during Arts Camp 2022. Volunteers from all over the metro area came together to help this awesome event come together. Amazing churches like Christ Community Downtown and Hillcrest Covenant supported us with supplies, volunteers, and food for our students to have breakfast and lunch.

This May, we will have Mikya Wright join us as a new apprentice and begin planning for this year’s camp! Together, we are hoping to reach our goal of hosting 100 kids from our community this summer. 

Every year as the school year is set to begin, we have the opportunity to provide backpacks filled with school supplies for our students. This helps them begin the new school year off on the right foot. Bible study groups, local churches, and generous people from all places gather to put these backpacks together for our kids. Our kids join us for the last week of summer program and are able to pick out an awesome backpack that same week! 

There are a few ways you can join in on this summer’s fun: 

  1. Join us for Arts Camp 2023! Anyone age 13 and up can join us as volunteers and help either lead/co-lead an arts class, set up classrooms, and prepare meals. Fill out this form if you're interested: https://missionadelante.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/126/responses/new 

  2. Help us prepare backpacks for this summer’s event! This is a great opportunity for a group to come together and support our community. We are in need of girls’ elementary backpacks, here’s a link to get started: http://www.missionadelante.org/serviceprojects/backpacks

  3. Join us in prayer! The summer is our busiest, most fun time at Mission Adelante. Youth from our community fill our building with life and vibrancy.
    Pray for our students to enjoy their time with us, grow in their faith and leadership skills, and make lifetime long friends. Pray for our leaders to be filled with energy to teach and guide our students, to stay healthy during such a busy time, and for God to continue working through them.

Be part of our programs!

 We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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.

The Impact of Volunteers

The Impact of Volunteers 

by Patrique Harris, Youth Ministry Director

(Back row, from left to right: Alexis, Luis P and Luis M; front row, from left to right: Patrique, Elodia and Kaytlynn)

I can’t believe I am nearing the two-year mark of joining Mission Adelante’s team! Whatever expectations I had of leading Mission Adelante’s Youth Ministry have been completely transcended. In my role, I have been able to walk alongside many teenagers in the Kansas City, Kansas neighborhood. I have seen participants get taller, build new friendships, celebrate milestone birthdays, and grow in confidence, leadership, and their faith. But behind the scenes is a passionate group of individuals who commit significant time and resources to share in this ministry with me. Their partnership has made this experience just that much more special! 

At Mission Adelante, our goal is to make disciples by serving, sharing life, and sharing Jesus with people from all places, and our current cohort of Youth Ministry volunteers, Michael, Jessie, Elodia, Luis P, Alexis, Kaytlynn, Luis M and Grace, are truly living this out. On Wednesday evenings our building is bustling with excited participants, eager to spend time with our beloved volunteers. To be honest, at times it is difficult to distinguish volunteers from participants. You’ll often find volunteers fully engaged in hot competition, cracking jokes, and using the newest slang! During our lesson time, volunteers help participants break down biblical occurrences, challenging participants to implement teachings in their own life. It’s incredible how relatable our participants find our volunteers. Despite the age gap, volunteers find common ground by spending time listening and learning about the experiences of teens and also sharing experiences from their own lives and childhood. The relationship is 100% reciprocal! 

(From left to right: Lucy, Alana, Anisha and Patrique)

(From left to right: Anisha, Alexis, Kaytlynn, Jessie and Grace)

What’s more, the friendship and mentorship of veteran volunteers has moved the next generation to also serve, share life, and share Jesus. You can catch Lucy leading Bible lessons at Kids Adelante on Thursday evenings, Anisha preparing for Arts Community classes on Monday evenings, and Alana helping to ideate fun activities for Adelante Youth Club on Wednesday evenings. I am confident that the example of our volunteers will continue to drive more and more young leaders to emerge from our neighborhood!

Be part of our programs!

 We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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.

CULTURAL SURPRISES I EXPERIENCED WHEN I MOVED TO THE US

TOp 5 cultural surprises I experienced when I moved from El Salvador to the US

by Luis Magana, Partner Engagement Director

Moving to another country can come with cultural surprises. Even when you think you know a lot about the new culture, there may be unexpected social norms, traditions, or behaviors that can catch you off guard.

For me these were the top 5 cultural surprises that I experienced when I moved here:

  1. Events usually start at the time listed on the invitation.

In El Salvador, events often start later than advertised, and it's considered normal to arrive fashionably late. However, in the US, events typically start at the exact time listed on the invitation, and being punctual is generally expected.

2. Asking who has the best BBQ is opening a can of worms.

As a food lover, I was excited to explore the BBQ scene in Kansas City. I quickly discovered that BBQ was taken very seriously, with different restaurants and enthusiasts claiming to be the best. Asking who has the best BBQ can spark a fun and heated debate between people.

3. Midwest weather is unpredictable.

In El Salvador, the weather is relatively predictable, with a consistent temperature throughout the year. However, in the Midwest, the weather can change rapidly and unexpectedly. One day it could be sunny and warm, and the next day, there could be a snowstorm. I had to learn to check the weather forecast before heading out, especially during the winter months.

4. Pajamas are acceptable while you shop.

One of the things that surprised me the most was seeing people wearing pajamas or other casual attire when shopping or running errands, even in major stores like Walmart. In El Salvador, people tend to dress more formally in public, so it was quite a culture shock to see people in their pajamas at the grocery store.

5. Intentionality counts more to establish a relationship with people.

In El Salvador, relationships are often more spontaneous and informal. However, in the US, people tend to value intentional efforts to build relationships, such as making plans to spend time together or sending thoughtful messages or gifts. I learned that it's essential to put effort into building relationships, and making plans in advance can be an excellent way to do so.

Moving to a new city is always challenging, but it's also a valuable experience that can broaden our perspectives and help us appreciate the world's diversity.

Every culture has its unique elements of beauty and brokenness. Working at Mission Adelante has allowed me to see firsthand the beauty in the diverse cultures represented in Kansas City, Kansas. I am learning to approach each new culture eager and excited to learn from their beauty.

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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: https://www.missionadelante.org/orientation

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

It’s Never Too Late

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE

Written by Linda McVey, ESL Volunteer. 

My name is Linda McVey, and I am an 81 year old volunteer at Mission Adelante for Hispanic adults studying English as a Second Language. I have volunteered for two terms after a long career teaching public high school English and then community college ESL for adults.  After retiring, I missed my ESL students and found this program.  So why was I so interested, even after retiring twice, in these students who are so motivated to learn English?

My interest began when I looked back at my childhood and early teen years. My father joined the FBI the year I was born.  At that time, J. Edgar Hoover moved his young agents every two years for experience in different field locations.  As a result, I went to five different schools in five different states.   Each time we moved, I cried to lose the few friends I’d made and was scared to start over.  I was shy and making new friends wasn’t easy.  I was once again the “new kid” in school.  But then when we moved to Kansas City to stay, I finally felt at home and acclimated to my new school and culture. I graduated later from Kansas State University in Secondary Education/English and began teaching in public schools.  I developed a lifelong affinity, due to my experiences, especially for students who were new or left out or working hard despite full time  jobs.  That feeling drew me naturally after retirement to students from a different country who had assimilated to the United States and its environment and culture. I identified with them and wanted to provide them with encouragement, acceptance and praise for their efforts. 

Finally, anyone who has a desire to help these students can volunteer at Mission Adelante.  Knowing Spanish is not necessary.  It is very rewarding work which you’ll never regret.  You’ll work with appreciative students and know you’re making a difference in their lives.

MISSION ADELANTE OBSERVATION NIGHTS

MARCH 6TH TO MARCH 9TH

Are you interested in taking the next step to volunteer? Take a glimpse of what is going on at Mission Adelante and what we are doing in our different programs.

This is a great opportunity to have the full experience of a Mission Adelante volunteer.

For more information visit: www.missionadelante.org/observe

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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 one of our obseveration nights the first week of March. For more information visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/observe

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

Pursuing a “New We”

Pursuing a “New We”

by Jarrett Meek, Founder/Pastor/Executive Director

So much of our world is seen through the lens of “us vs. them”.  Politically it’s Democrats vs. Republicans.  Sometimes we line up along urban vs. suburban lines, or native-born Americans vs. immigrants. Or, the Chiefs vs. the Eagles!  In urban ministry, serving can not-so-subtly be understood as a privileged “us” serving a needy “them”.   

At Mission Adelante, we believe God is calling us to create a “new we”, where people from all places belong, thrive, and do great things together.  Instead of viewing the world as “us and them”, what if people from different nationalities, languages, cultures, and races were unified around our love for Jesus and for our neighbor? 

Of course, this sounds almost too good to be true -- even a bit idealistic in such a divided world.  Why is it so hard to live this out?  There’s no chance I can answer that question in a few more sentences.  However, it is happening at Mission Adelante!  We are seeing racial reconciliation as we pursue racial justice together.  We are seeing people from all places contributing with their gifts and talents as we make space for diverse leaders.  We are enjoying the richness that immigrants and refugees bring as we celebrate each other’s cultures.  And, as we worship Jesus together, we’re experiencing a taste of heaven as described in Revelation 7:9-10: 

“ After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”


MISSION ADELANTE OBSERVATION NIGHTS

MARCH 6TH TO MARCH 9TH

Are you interested in taking the next step to volunteer? Take a glimpse of what is going on at Mission Adelante and what we are doing in our different programs.

This is a great opportunity to have the full experience of a Mission Adelante volunteer.

For more information visit: www.missionadelante.org/observe

Be part of our programs!

 We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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 one of our obseveration nights the first week of March. For more information visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/observe

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

First of all, how about them Chiefs? 

First of all, how about them Chiefs? 

by Veronica Garcia, Refugee Services Manager

What a game on Sunday night! All I can think about is how amazing both teams worked. It doesn’t mean we faced any adversity along the way. I mean…the anxiety our beloved team always seems to give us during those 4th quarters is insane! The breath of relief when Butker kicked that final field goal… ultimately, one team had to win! The Kansas City Chiefs briefly looked back at their mistakes, looked forward with their goal in mind, and gave the second half everything they had. 

What’s on my mind today is achieving success in the face of adversity. While I will make a lot of comparisons to our city’s most recent event, this can easily be applied to our personal lives. 

Human beings face so much. Sometimes it feels like the world is against us. Sometimes it feels like God is against us. We go through extreme hardship, loss, trials, and battles. This can all be through outside circumstances or facing battles within our own minds. Be encouraged, though. God has already won those battles. Through Jesus’ blood on the cross, we can look towards the light and joy that is waiting for us through Jesus Christ. Our success and our own “superbowl moment” is waiting for us.

It may take a while to get through this season of either stress, the winter woes, or whatever may be heavy on your mind. Reflecting on God and staying present in this moment with Him may hurt, but there’s always lessons to be learned. Patrick Mahomes has messed up plenty of times during this season, but the superbowl trophy and a trip to Disney world was awaiting him and his family at the very end of it! Our own success will likely present itself wayyy differently than a trip to Disney World, but you know whatever God himself gifts to us will be much greater in comparison. We may feel fulfilled, complete, thankful that God has walked with us through our moments of adversity. 

“So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show you that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold–though your faith is far more precious than gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.” 1 Peter 1:6-7

God is crying with us in our hardest moments. God is cheering us on when it feels like no one believes in us. God is comforting us when we cry out to him. God is celebrating with us when we finally have a breakthrough. God is rejoicing with us when at the end we give Him all the glory. 

I am praying for you and whatever may be heavy on your heart during this time. I pray you may receive your God-given moments of success very soon! You can do anything through Christ who strengthens you. 

MISSION ADELANTE OBSERVATION NIGHTS

MARCH 6TH TO MARCH 9TH

Are you interested in taking the next step to volunteer? Take a glimpse of what is going at Mission Adelante and what we are doing in our different programs.

This is a great opportunity to have the full experience of a Mission Adelante volunteer.

For more information visit: www.missionadelante.org/observe

Be part of our programs!

 We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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 one of our obseveration nights the first week of March. For more information visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/observe

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

Losing a Mentor

Losing a Mentor

by Carla Flores, Kids Ministry Director

A couple of weeks ago, I was informed that my student-teaching mentor, Annette Bright, had suddenly passed away. It was a huge shock to all who had the joy of meeting and knowing her. Annette was a person who radiated Jesus’ love, had a sense of humor like no other, and enjoyed advocating for those around her. I met Annette in January 2020 at Frances Willard Elementary. I had chosen this school to be the place where I would complete my student teaching training since it had been my elementary school 15 years ago. It was a school that I remembered fondly and whose teachers had left an impact on my life. Annette met me and began mentoring me with open hands, teaching me the ropes to becoming a great teacher not only through her words but through her actions as well. She invited me into her classroom and even allowed me to add pieces of myself into it. 

Over the course of the next few months, Annette demonstrated what it meant to be a great teacher. Focusing on creative ways to teach her students, advocating for students during state assessments, and even standing up for teachers as the district added to their workload and made neverending changes. If you know me, you know I tend to shy away from confrontation. During my first PLC (Professional Learning Community) meeting, the 5th grade team, instructional coach, and principals were addressing state assessments and the process of data collecting afterwards. I was taking notes to ensure I would be ready for the test taking season. Annette began advocating for her students, mentioning the stress and pressure state testing brought to them. I listened intently and learned more about teaching than I had in my 4 years in college. Annette not only knew her students but used her role as a teacher to make their education one that they would enjoy and be meaningful for their lives in the long run. This instance was one of many that impacted me and led me to be the teacher I am today. 

Annette loved snow days; she'd bring out her beloved snow day flag, signed by Bryan Busby, a local weatherman, a day before in hopes that it would help bring in some snow. KCKPS had not used a snow day this school year but on January 25th, even with a lack of snow, a snow day was given. I believe this was orchestrated by God to give Annette a beautiful snow day on the day of her passing. Annette, if I could see you again, I’d let you know how much you’ve impacted my life. How your quirky smirk and humorous outlook on life planted a seed of joy in my heart. How you advocating for your students through words and action meant and taught me much more than any college class could. How your love of Jesus and your Catholic faith shown out of you through your love for your students, fellow teachers, and even a stranger in your classroom like myself. I’m thankful to have learned and been mentored by you. My life, your students’ lives, and so many others have been shaped by your dedicated and steadfast spirit. Cheers to another snow day, my dear friend.

Please join me in praying for Annette’s family and friends: her husband Dean, her beloved sons Micah and Seth, and her students and coworkers at Frances Willard Elementary.

Mission Adelante Observation Nights

March 6th to March 9th

Are you interested in taking the next step to volunteer? Take a glimpse of what is going at Mission Adelante and what we are doing in our different programs.

This is a great opportunity to have the full experience of a Mission Adelante volunteer.

For more information visit: www.missionadelante.org/observe


Be part of our programs!

 We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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 one of our obseveration nights the first week of March. For more information visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/observe

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

MY STORY

my story

by Patrique Harris, Youth Ministry Director

I grew up in a rural town called Ewarton, nestled in the valleys of St. Catherine, Jamaica. I am the first child of Patrick and Sandra Harris. My father, Patrick, worked at a bauxite plant near our home (he still works there today!), and my mother, Sandra, cared for the home and her garden. A couple years after I was born, my brother, Sheldon, joined the family and then came my twin brothers, Brandon and Brian. My parents were committed to our family and in our household, they prioritized nurturing our faith and our education.


My mother, Sandra, is a woman of service. Although she had several aspirations professionally, she put them on hold to care for her children. She took care of drop-offs and pick-ups for school and extracurriculars, prepared meals, volunteered at school events, and was the primary disciplinarian! However, more than serving her family, she spent considerable time serving her community. I remember her making multiple trips per week to remote areas of the town to deliver hot meals to sick and shut-in members of our church. Needless to say, I had to accompany her on several of these trips. I didn’t realize it at the time, but seeing her commitment to service planted a seed in me to also serve.

At nine years old, I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior and got baptized at Linstead Baptist Church. I can still remember my conviction, even at that age, that I could not get through life without God’s love and grace. There's definitely nothing quite like having faith like a child! 

At twelve years old, I got accepted to my first-choice high school, Campion College. This was a huge accomplishment, but it brought some of my earliest hardships. Not only was Campion challenging academically, but the school is located in Jamaica’s capital city, Kingston – about 34 miles from my home. With peak-hour traffic, this meant a 4-hour commute daily. My father would wake me up at 4am each morning to catch my bus at 5am, and I wouldn’t return home until 5pm most evenings. This was my reality for the 7 years I spent at Campion. When I look back, I marvel at God’s hand during that period. There were definitely days when I felt exhausted and even jealous of my peers who lived down the street from school. But I persevered and ultimately, the grit I harnessed from this experience was God preparing me for my next big transition - moving to the United States.

At 18 years old, I moved to the United States to attend Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut. This meant a lot of firsts for me. It was my first time living away from family, missing holidays in Jamaica, having a roommate, experiencing winter, working while studying, and being considered a “minority”. My faith was rocked during this time. There weren't many Caribbean, Black, Christian women on campus. Finding community felt impossible and I began to feel self-conscious about my identity. Right on time, in my lowest moment, God sent a few Good Samaritans down my path. They checked on me, helped me with anything and everything, and celebrated me for who I was. Even though we were more different than similar, I felt belonging with these friends. When I graduated Wesleyan, I remember being overwhelmed with emotion.​​ God’s goodness was evident!

I never imagined that a few years later God would move me to full-time ministry in Kansas City! At Mission Adelante, I have had the opportunity to serve alongside fantastic folks who are all committed to loving people from all places. From Ewarton and Kingston, Jamaica to Connecticut and Kansas City, God has faithfully guided and provided for me. I pray that you’ll continue to trust that he is doing the same for you

Be part of our programs!

 We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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 one of our obseveration nights the first week of March. For more information visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/observe

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

A Dream Team Board of Directors

by Jarrett Meek

Being aware of and embracing the phases of an organization’s growth and development is not an easy task. Like parenting, each new phase of an organization requires different skills and intentional adjustments.

In the early growth stages of Mission Adelante, our board of directors was made up primarily of my own life-long friends who were excited to contribute to Mission Adelante’s mission and success. As a founder, I was grateful to have a trusted and competent group of people backing me in this endeavor. Because of our long-term relationships and shared history, alignment was easy and decision-making streamlined. In the midst of the many challenges that come with starting a new organization, our board of directors was a steady and uncomplicated source of encouragement and wisdom. That original board of directors largely stayed together for about 12 years, before some members began to transition off. They served well, gave generously, and used their gifts and experience to provide a healthy and stable foundation for the ministry during our early phases of growth.

Mission Adelante is now in a new stage of development as we move toward maturity and next generation leadership. One of the most important aspects of this maturing process starts with our board of directors. Over the last few years, we’ve been active in pursuing new board members from all places who bring perspectives from diverse cultural backgrounds as well as strengths and experiences that address some of the most important big-picture needs of our ministry. What we have now is an exciting, energized, and diverse group of leaders who are contributing in new ways to the success of Mission Adelante! I’m thrilled to introduce you to our Dream Team board of directors!

Todd Jones, an attorney working in the Commercial Title Insurance industry, serves as our Chairperson. Todd joined our board in 2006 and has provided continuity through the evolution of our board over the years.

Ariel Griffin, whose father immigrated from Nigeria, is our Secretary and originally served with Mission Adelante as a college intern in 2011. She has earned two Master’s degrees and serves on a variety of boards.

Michael Fry, our Treasurer, is the co-founder and owner of Brown Button Estate Sales, bringing business and entrepreneurial experience to the table.

Israel Guillermo immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico as a child, and understands the challenges of growing up in new country. He has earned a Master’s degree in Project Management and works in I.T.. Israel serves on our Education and Advocacy committee.

Reid Kapple, a local Pastor, brings a theological depth, extensive experience with the local church, and a passion for issues of biblical justice, especially related to immigration. He serves on our Education and Advocacy Committee.

Kori Carew, an attorney who immigrated from Sierra Leone, is a professional speaker, coach and trainer specializing in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion. She is passionate about coaching and mentoring leaders and others to create belonging in organizations. Kori also serves on our Education and Advocacy Committee.

Steve Steddom interacted frequently with Mission Adelante over many years in his previous role as the Executive Director of the Harry J. Lloyd Charitable Trust. Steve has recently earned his PhD and is now a nonprofit consultant and coach with expertise in philanthropy. Steve serves on our Partner Engagement and Fundraising Committee.

Nayeli Flores, an entrepreneur from Mexico, earned her Master’s in Business Administration in Spain. She currently serves as the President of the Kansas City chapter of the Global Network of Mexican Professionals (Red Global MX). She serves on our Partner Engagement and Fundraising Committee.

Felipe Ham was part of the original team of volunteers who started Mission Adelante. After years of serving in our children’s ministry, he joined our Board of Directors and serves on our Ministry and Personnel Committee.

Wendy English first connected with our ministry as a volunteer in our Youth Club. In the marketplace, she works in Human Resources as a Corporate Recruiter. She serves on our Ministry and Personnel Committee.

Jarrett Meek, that’s me! As Pastor and Executive Director, it is my joy to work with this Dream Team of board members to lead Mission Adelante into an exciting future!

For more about our Board of Directors, please visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/board

Be part of our programs!

 We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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 one of our obseveration nights the first week of March. For more information visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/observe

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

Remembering the great ending of 2022

Remembering the great ending of 2022 

by Gissell Vazquez, Adults Ministry Director.

The end of 2022 brought many surprises and good experiences. One of my favorites was doing our traditional ESL Christmas Party.

Our last one was in 2019 before COVID hit. This year we didn’t want to go without celebrating what God did with this amazing community.

People from different countries came together on December 14th to celebrate. We had so much fun and so much food! What a mixture of cultures represented.

From the traditional Mexican tacos, the Honduran baleadas, to the classic American green bean casserole, and so many other things that I couldn’t mention.

People from all places in a beautiful display of a diverse community: The students with a common need to learn a foreign language and the volunteers that serve by teaching English.  

The Karaoke competition lit up the night! You’d be surprised by how many hidden talents are out there. Cecilia Flores made her way up to first place by singing “Ya te olvidé”. What a powerful performance that made the audience aplaude euphorically.

Jarrett Meek, Mission Adelante’s Executive Director/Founder/Pastor enlightened us with a beautiful Christmas reflection about joy. And, we ended the night handing out students certificates and volunteers awards. It was an honor to celebrate the students and volunteers.

I am so happy that we are back in our new trimester. Thank you to all who participated in ESL in 2022. We’re looking forward to a wonderful 2023. 

¡Recordando el final del año 2022!

El final del año 2022 trajo muchas sorpresas y buenas experiencias. Una de mis actividades favoritas fue hacer nuestra tradicional fiesta de Navidad de ESL. La última fue en 2019 antes de que llegara el COVID. No queríamos pasar sin celebrar lo que Dios hizo en el 2022 con esta increíble comunidad. 

Personas de diferentes países se reunieron el 14 de diciembre para celebrar. ¡Tuvimos tanta diversión y tanta comida! ¡Qué mezcla de culturas representadas! Desde los tradicionales tacos mexicanos, las baleadas hasta la cazuela de ejotes y tantas cosas más que no sabría mencionar. 

Personas de todos los lugares en una hermosa muestra de una comunidad diversa: Los estudiantes con una necesidad común de aprender un idioma extranjero y los voluntarios que sirven enseñando inglés.

¡La competencia de Karaoke iluminó la noche! Te sorprendería la cantidad de talentos ocultos que existen. Cecilia Flores subió al primer lugar cantando “Ya te olvidé”. Qué actuación tan poderosa que hizo que el público aplaudiera eufóricamente.

Jaime Meek, el Pastor y Director Ejecutivo de Mission Adelante, nos iluminó con una hermosa reflexión navideña. Terminamos la noche entregando los certificados a los estudiantes y premios a los voluntarios.

Fue un honor celebrar a los estudiantes y voluntarios. Que alegria me da empezar este nuevo trimestre. Gracias a todos los que participaron este año en ESL. Esperamos un maravilloso 2023.

You can still be part of our programs!

 We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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 one of our obseveration nights the first week of March. For more information visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/observe

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

A Fire Within | Saying Yes to the Journey

A Fire Within | Saying Yes to the Journey

by Luis Magana, Partner Engagement Director

Have you ever felt like God wanted more from you? Sometimes it’s a small nudge in your soul or a gentle whisper in your heart from the Lord asking you to follow Him in new ways. 

The prophet Jeremiah, during a time of discouragement in his life, felt the Lord calling him to something bigger. He tried to ignore it, but simply couldn’t. He described it as a fire burning in his heart. A calling so intense he could feel in his bones.

“But if I say I’ll never mention the Lord
or speak in his name,
his word burns in my heart like a fire.
It’s like a fire in my bones!
I am worn out trying to hold it in!
I can’t do it!”
Jeremiah 20:9

It was a similar burning fire within our hearts that led  my wife, Kaytlynn and I to Mission Adelante. As newlyweds, it was important to us to find a place to serve together. We began volunteering in 2022. A few months later,  my wife and I were joking one day that I would probably, eventually, one-day leave my job for full-time ministry. Once again, we both felt the nudge the Lord wanted more from us. Two weeks later,  Mission Adelante Executive Director, Jarrett Meek, asked me to consider joining Mission Adelante full-time. 

After five prayerful weeks, we said YES. This month, I started as the Director of Partner Engagement. The love and warmth of the Mission Adelante and KCK community have affirmed our decision to partner with God’s work here. 

So what fire is burning in your heart? Maybe it’s something big - like selling your house or changing jobs. Or perhaps it’s something small - like forgiving a family member or apologizing to a coworker. One of our family values is Faith - trust the Lord even when life is a question mark. While you may not know how or when, I can tell you the Lord will provide, we simply have to trust Him. 


I just want to encourage you to reflect more about your journey with the Lord and challenge to hear His voice. He wants to use you; will you listen and trust Him with what He is asking you to do?

Programs have officially launched for the year!

Monday, we had our first huddle of the year where we had a great time getting to know everyone and praying over this trimester.

 We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this 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 – take the first step by signing up for observation night

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

Thank You -- The Celebration Continues!

by Jarrett Meek, Pastor, Founder, Executive Director

“Praise the Lord! I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, in the company of the upright, in the congregation. 2 Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them. 3 Full of splendor and majesty is his work, and his righteousness endures forever.4 He has caused his wondrous works to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and merciful.”  Psalm 111:1-4

I have seen, once again, that God does move mountains.  And, I can’t stop giving Him thanks!  And, I thank YOU, for your generosity and love for the Mission Adelante community.  

It’s normal for churches and nonprofit organizations to receive a large portion of their annual funding in November and December.  On November 1st, when we calculated what was still needed to meet our annual fundraising goal, the number was about $230,000, quite a bit more than past years.  I walked out of my office and called our staff together for a brief update -- I was excited-- you can ask them!  The number was daunting, but I’ve seen God move before to provide for Mission Adelante, and I believed He would do it again.  And, I really was excited to see how He would surprise us, who would step forward in generosity, where this provision would come from.  Seeing God move mountains and generous people share their resources for a Kingdom purpose has become one of the things I love most about fundraising!

If you followed along on social media, you may have seen our update posts.  Slow progress at first, and then $126k, then $160k, $180k, $199k, $210k, and on New Year’s Eve we broke past the goal, hitting $233k.  Now, after we picked up the final batch of checks from our P.O. Box, the year-end tally has reached $250k!

“Praise the Lord! I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart,
in the company of the upright, in the congregation.

Friends, I’m praising God, and I am so very thankful to you, as well.  Thank you for your generosity, for your love for our community, for believing in our ministry, and for sharing your resources to further our mission to make disciples with people from all places.  Even as we are looking forward to what God will do in 2023, we are still celebrating 2022.  Celebrate with us by saying a prayer of Thanksgiving to the God of all creation!

Volunteer Orientation

January 7, 2023 from 9:00am to 12:30pm

Join us on Saturday morning, January 7th to learn more about volunteering at Mission Adelante. We’ll spend a morning together, learning about Mission Adelante and getting training for your area of interest. We especially need volunteers for this upcoming trimester for our kids ministries on Monday and Thursday evenings. Other opportunities include Youth ministries , and Adult ESL and Citizenship classes. Fill out an interest form to let us know you’re coming!

Celebrate 2022: The Final Countdown!

by Jarrett Meek, Founder/Pastor/Executive Director

The year 2022 is coming to a close and there is a lot to celebrate! Of course, we’re working on year-end giving and we’re standing in awe of God’s provision and the generosity of so many friends. To date, we’ve received $216,000 toward our year-end goal of $230,000. We’re just $14,000 away from meeting this outrageous goal! As we count down to the end of 2022 and the beginning of a new year, would you consider celebrating with us by making gift TODAY? We would love to see a wave of support on this last day of the year that pushes us over the line. Gifts of $50, $100, $200, or more… any amount would be helpful and be wind in our sails as we gear up for another fruitful year of making disciples with people from all places.

Here are a few things that we’re celebrating from 2022: KU Men’s Basketball- NCAA Champions, My dad finishing a 5K after 3 brain surgeries earlier this year, My daughter Annie getting married, an awesome summer trimester, another year of amazing English students, several baptisms, Lionel Messi and Argentina winning the World Cup, K-State Wildcats Foot winning the Big 12 Championship (and the Sugar Bowl tonight?!).

Volunteer Orientation

January 7, 2023 from 9:00am to 12:30pm

Join us on Saturday morning, January 7th to learn more about volunteering at Mission Adelante. We’ll spend a morning together, learning about Mission Adelante and getting training for your area of interest. We especially need volunteers for this upcoming trimester for our kids ministries on Monday and Thursday evenings. Other opportunities include Youth ministries , and Adult ESL and Citizenship classes. Fill out an interest form to let us know you’re coming!

First of all, how about them Chiefs? 

My First Trimester Reflections and Celebrations! 

by Veronica Garcia, Refugee Services Manager

My first trimester on staff at Mission Adelante flew by. I cannot believe it is over already. I am so thankful for the opportunity to create a program where students can come to learn English and practice with the volunteers. I want to personally thank the volunteers that have contributed their time and creativity to this inaugural trimester of Refugee ESL: Mary, Lindsay, Jill, Larry, Amy, Laura, and Morgan. The students came back each week for you! Thank you. 

From October until the end of November, we had 8 lessons that focused on practical English. Each lesson, we had multiple components: reading, writing, movement, and active conversation. I wanted to make sure to emphasize all of these components because of the different language backgrounds we had in the class. 

We only had a few students this trimester, but boy, was it a lot of fun! Having this first trimester with a small class really allowed all of the students and volunteers to really get to know each other on a deeper level. 

As for Citizenship, we had a great trimester as well. We were getting calls of interest almost every week. I am confident we will have a lot of new students and returning students in January. 

On a super exciting note, I want to congratulate Marcela for passing her Citizenship test! She had been working with one of the volunteers, Laura, one-on-one the past few weeks to really prepare for her test and interview. 

We had some rockstar volunteers for Citizenship: Karen, Morgan, Jim, Debbie, Emma, Geraldina, Mary, Laura, Elliot, and Rachel in our beginners class; and Dean and Carlie leading our intermediate group! This group of volunteers are motivated and committed to helping students accomplish their goals of becoming a citizen.

At Mission Adelante this season, our theme is to celebrate. I am celebrating that my transition onto staff was smooth and even smoother with the volunteers. Everyone has been so welcoming and kind as I learned the ropes of running programs. I am celebrating that while Refugee ESL was small, it was successful. The students have emphasized that this class has really helped them gain confidence in speaking English and they are excited to return in January! I am celebrating that Marcela passed her Citizenship test! Thank you for celebrating with me. The ESL department has a lot planned for 2023, so stay tuned. I am looking forward to what the new year will bring and what else we can accomplish together.


Celebrate 2022: A Year-end Giving Opportunity

Celebrate 2022 is an opportunity to celebrate God’s faithfulness in your life and the ministry of Mission Adelante this year, by making a year-end contribution to support Mission Adelante. Our year-end goal is $230,000!

by Jarrett Meek, Founder, Pastor, Executive Director

This is the time of year when we celebrate -- Thanksgiving, family, friends, Christmas, and a New Year!  At Mission Adelante, we are celebrating the beautiful fruits of an exciting ministry season and all that God has done in our midst.  Coming off the pandemic, we saw renewed momentum and an acceleration of growth in nearly every area of our ministry: disciples growing in faith, leaders developing, and friends from all places learning English, becoming citizens, starting businesses.  We are coming to the end of the year with full hearts and a great sense of hope for what the Lord will do in the year to come.  

In 2023, we are looking forward to growth in a few important areas:

  • In January, we will promote Elizabeth Torres to the role of Executive Director of Adelante Thrift.  As General Manager, she has developed a healthy staff culture and has overseen 45% growth in sales in the last 3 years.

  • We are excited to be part of the formation of a local network of Christian Community Development practitioners, who share our heart to see individuals and under-resourced communities flourish.

  • We will continue to press into developing our young staff and apprentices.  They are already making a tremendous impact, and we want to help them reach their potential as leaders in ministry.

  • We are looking forward to deepening our partnerships across the metro to foster more collaboration around entrepreneurship, advocacy for immigrants, and diverse leadership development.

  • The foundational work of making disciples with children, youth, and adults continues to flourish, and we’re looking forward to further growth in these areas as our programs continue to expand.

Generosity is a celebration of God’s past faithfulness and a forward-looking, faith-filled deposit toward what we long to celebrate in the future.  This year, as November began, we set the goal of raising $230,000 in the final two months of the year.  These funds will help us meet our annual budget and set us up for success to start the new year.  As we celebrate this year and look ahead to 2023, will you celebrate with us, by making a special year-end contribution?  Giving is easy at www.missionadelante.org/give.

January 7, 2023, 9:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M.

Join our volunteer team and work with kids, youth, or adults over the course of a 12-week trimester! On January 7th, we’ll spend a morning together, learning about Mission Adelante and getting training for your area of interest. Check out our website to learn more about specific volunteer opportunities. Fill out a volunteer interest form to let us know you’re coming to the orientation!

See All Volunteer Opportunities