Refining 2 Ignite

I was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan in the Grandville Ave/Roosevelt Park neighborhood. My mom always said, "Trust God," and I saw Welita pray day and night. I gained a strong Trust and Faith in God through their example (Matthew 17: 20). Prayer became a huge part of my life, and it is something I will always carry with me (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). I felt called to GO out in the world when I was around the age of 7. I had this beautiful world map in front of me as I stood in the very same room where the enemy began to try to destroy the dreams, vision, and purpose God shared with me. I looked with amazement and pointed all around the map with a strong feeling of determination and the faith that it was already going to be done. I said, " I will GO here, and there, and there, and there, plus here." I didn't completely understand it at the time, but I felt it so strongly and knew it in my heart. I was just meant to GO. Later, I went to church and saw a photo of a missionary family on the bulletin board. I took a deep breath and smiled. That was what I was meant to do. Throughout my life, no matter what I was going through, I found myself wanting to be a helper, an encourager, a problem-solver. I just wanted to love everyone, make others feel special, and teach everybody about the love of God (Jeremiah 29:11).

I was commissioned out of The Edge Urban Church (my home) in Grand Rapids, MI in January 2022. I moved to Florida to serve in Nassau County where I began to help with the county's homeless population, serve in a local soup kitchen, and work with men who are in transition during recovery from addiction while they live in a safe environment. Recently, God sent me on a mission to Texas where I served for 13 months. 
I am currently back in my hometown serving in my home church and in my community. I am taking the opportunity to gain more knowledge and experience to grow in preparation for when God sends me out again. 

Today, I am a mom of four grown children and Welita to a beautiful 6 year-old little girl. I have one sweet fur baby boy named MCat. I am also a full time missionary, teacher, speaker, creative writer, and artist who loves sharing the gospel and making disciples. I have partnered and continued to work with teams and ministries in Michigan, Florida, and Texas. Thus, Refining 2 Ignite Ministries has grown out of my God-given desire to love and help others everywhere God leads. I want to be God's vessel and be the hands and feet of Christ. I want others to see His light and know His love.  Refining 2 Ignite Ministries brings together a vast network of people who seek to reach out to their community and beyond to share the love of God.