In November 2024, our children's ministry was blessed with the arrival of Alana as an apprentice. From the start, she brought a calm and steady presence, a heart for children, and a deep eagerness to learn. Over the past few months, she poured herself into our ministry, forming strong connections with the kids, growing as a leader, and embracing every opportunity to serve.
One of Alana’s greatest gifts is the way she cares for those who are often overlooked. She has a special ability to connect with the shy, the quiet, and the outcast—making them feel seen, known, and loved. She brings peace into every space she enters, creating an environment where children feel safe and valued. Whether leading lessons, organizing activities, or simply sitting beside a child who needed a friend, her presence is a gift to our ministry.
Beyond her work with the kids, Alana embraced personal and professional growth in inspiring ways. She learned so much from Erick, Patrique, and myself—taking in wisdom, stepping outside her comfort zone, and growing in confidence as a leader. She is always eager to listen, ask questions, and apply what she’s learned, making the most of every opportunity to develop her skills. Watching her step into leadership, take initiative, and gain a deeper understanding of ministry has been an absolute honor.
Mentoring Alana wasn’t just about guiding her growth, it also shaped me in profound ways. As her supervisor and mentor, I had the privilege of walking alongside her as she stepped into leadership, but in the process, she also taught me. Her quiet strength, deep compassion, and ability to see and love those who are often overlooked challenged me to slow down and be more intentional in my own leadership. She reminded me that ministry isn’t just about structure and planning, it’s about presence, about truly seeing people and making space for them. Watching her serve with such grace and humility inspired me to do the same, and I am a better leader because of the time I spent mentoring her.
“Alana reminded me that ministry isn’t just about structure and planning, it’s about presence, about truly seeing people and making space for them.
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Because of funding cuts, her time with us was shorter than we had hoped, yet Alana has left a lasting impression on the children, our team, and this ministry as a whole. Her kindness, wisdom, and gentle spirit have shaped lives in ways that will continue far beyond her time here.
Alana- thank you for everything you poured into our ministry. You made a difference, and we are so grateful for you. We pray that the next chapter of your journey is filled with open doors, new opportunities, and the continued growth that we have been so blessed to witness. Wherever you go, we know you will bring peace, love, and light, just as you have here. And you know you’ll always have friends here at Mission Adelante who love you and are rooting for you!