Generations of Gratitude

In our journey of faith, we often find ourselves drawn to distant lands, inspired by the call to serve as missionaries. However, parishioner Christi Megow and her children, Grace and Matt, had a recent experience in Houston that reminds us that the need for rootedness exists right in our own neighborhoods. A significant difference between overseas missions and local outreach, particularly in areas like Old Spanish Trail (OST) in Houston, is the rich history and generational ties of the people we serve.

During a visit to the Backyard Bible Club at Agape Development, the Megows heard stories that illuminated this truth. Agape co-founders Amanda and Kirk Craig shared how, in Bolivia, communities have deep roots in their land as families have lived there for generations. In contrast, many families in the OST area tend to be adrift, lacking those strong ties.

“The realization of that really struck a chord with me,” Christi said. “It became clear that’s really what they’re doing—creating roots, not just any roots, but roots based in faith and God and helping them build an amazing foundation.”

Her excitement as she discusses their experiences speaks to the privilege of engaging with a community that is hungry for connection and growth — both in faith and gratitude. “Grace has talked about wanting to work for Agape one day when she’s out of college or as an intern; it’s affecting the way they’re thinking and what they may do with their lives.”

Grace, a 14-year-old, expressed how the love she receives from the kindergartners brings her joy. “They all run up to me and give me hugs, and they want to tell me about what they did at school and about their homework,” she said. “I love them so much.”

Matt, a 13-year-old, found his own sense of agency through his experience at Agape. He noted, “It’s impacted me by seeing that I can make a difference, even though I am not an adult.”

These young hearts are learning what it means to plant seeds of faith, hope and gratitude in their community. Together, we can make a lasting difference, Grounded in Gratitude for the blessings that inspire us to give.