When a Young Leader Soars!
by Patrique Harris
You know that moment when you see a loved one, donned in their cap and gown, walking with pride as they step across the graduation stage? They're filled with joy as they're recognized for years of hard work, while also looking ahead with excitement for what’s to come. Well, even though there was no ceremonial pomp and circumstance, that's exactly how I feel watching Erick Flores cross the finish line of Mission Adelante's Apprenticeship Program.
For those who may be new to Mission Adelante, leadership development is at the heart of our ministry. We believe in disciples making disciples. From as early as elementary school through young adulthood, we intentionally invest time and resources to identify, equip, and empower the next generation of leaders. Our Apprenticeship Program is a key part of that vision. Through the program, recent high school graduates spend one to two years serving on staff, partnering closely with a staff mentor, exploring their calling, developing and leading ministry programs, and most importantly, deepening their relationship with Christ.
I was introduced to Erick a little over two years ago. I had seen him around helping his sister, Carla, with various kids' activities, but our first real conversation happened over coffee at Connect Café as we discussed the apprenticeship program. The details of our conversation are a little hazy now, but I remember thinking, This guy is polished for a recent high school grad. He carried himself with a level of confidence and professionalism that stood out. I would later learn that one of Erick's Top 5 CliftonStrengths is Self-Assurance, which, looking back, makes a lot of sense. But the part that impressed me most was Erick's confidence in expressing that he wanted to join the apprenticeship program during that very meeting. I remember telling him to take some time to process, read through the program description, and come back with any questions. After all, it was a big commitment. But you just got the sense that Erick had already made up his mind. And it just goes to show the kind of leader Erick is. He's all in. And all in he has been!
Erick has been a huge blessing to the Mission Adelante team. As one of the few men on staff, he’s certainly done his share of heavy lifting. I still laugh thinking about the time Jarrett, Erick, and an elderly printer technician somehow managed to haul a ~500-pound copier up and down two flights of stairs. I'm honestly still not sure how they pulled that off. But it's the less visible kind of heavy lifting that has made the biggest impact. Erick has put massive effort into caring for and loving the people around him. He instinctively brings others together, especially through sports, creating spaces where relationships can grow. He's dependable, crazy competitive, nurturing, and someone you can count on in a crisis.
Over the past two years, I've watched Erick grow in many ways as a leader. But the greatest transformation I've witnessed has been his faithfulness to Christ. Even in difficult seasons, Erick is committed to trusting and walking with Jesus each day. Watching that steady faith take root has made me so confident in Erick’s future as a leader. Erick has become an important part of my family, and I feel incredibly proud and blessed to have walked alongside him during this season of growth. And the best part? This isn't the end of Erick's story at Mission Adelante!
While our goal is to prepare apprentices to thrive wherever God calls them, Erick's calling continues right here! I'm excited to share that Erick has accepted the Youth Ministry Manager position at Mission Adelante. I couldn't be more excited for Erick and can’t wait to see the ways Erick will use his unique gifts to serve and disciple teens in our neighborhood. I know Erick is also excited to continue growing as a youth ministry leader. So if you have any encouragement, advice, or people you think Erick should meet, send him an email at erickf@missionadelante.org.
Congratulations, Erick! We are so proud of you, and we're excited to see what God has in store for this next chapter.
Volunteers Needed: Join Us for Volunteer Orientation!
We’re ramping up for our fall ministry programs, and we need your help! Volunteers are needed in all of our programs, so you can choose whichever area best suits your interest. Our orientation for new volunteers will be on September 12th from 9:00am to 12:30pm, where you’ll learn more about our ministry vision and specific volunteer opportunities. Visit our website to get a glimpse into what opportunities we have and express interest in serving! www.missionadelante.org/serve
Financial Support
We’re continuing to pray and work toward meeting our annual budget to support the robust ministry that happens at Mission Adelante every day. Every gift makes a difference! We’d love to have your support in 2026.