A Message From The President
“So Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise.’” (John 5:19, ESV)
Dear LifeQuest Family,
These words from Jesus reveal what a perfect relationship with God should look like. Jesus only does what He sees the Father doing. Jesus models His Father with obedience, love, and Godly purpose. As we work with the youth of New Mexico, we also see a different type of relationship being modeled for the youth, from their parents. This model does not resemble our Lord and is often broken and just like Jesus tells us many young people simply do what they’ve seen their earthly parents do. When a parent models faith, strength, kindness, and commitment to those around them, their children tend to grow in those same areas. The youth learn to love responsibly, respect others, and build healthy connections. But when
parents are absent, struggling, or model harmful patterns then those same things and patterns echo in the next generation where hearts are hardened, trust erodes, and cycles of faithlessness repeat.
This month and as we celebrate Valentine’s Day, the truest form of love must be the steady, sacrificial example that we strive to live out every day. Whether it is the broken definition of love that the world models or the Christ-like examples we all strive to provide. The youth are watching us very closely and they will imitate what is modeled before them. That is and always the heartbeat of LifeQuestUSA: to step into the gaps and broken places with hope, mentorship, and God’s love. Thank you for helping us to show the youth a better way by modeling healthy and loving mentoring relationships. Through our programs, we help the youth see that they don’t have to repeat the past and that they too can chose to model our perfect Heavenly Father and step into the future full of the hope that God has planned for them (Jeremiah 29:11).
So, this weekend, let’s pray for the parents of New Mexico: that God would strengthen them and inspire them to lead with the kind of love that builds up the next generation. And let’s commit to being the Christ-like examples they need, whether as mentors or volunteers, so every young person comes to know the love of the Father.
We’re grateful for you. Together, we’re living out hope, one transformed life at a time.
The need is great, and we cannot do this alone.
Partner with us:
* Pray for our youth, their families, and our team.
* Volunteer with us, mentoring, leading groups, or helping with events.
* Donate, every gift helps us to meet the youth, right where they are, with hope.
With Hope and Gratitude,
Ryan C. Butts
President, LifeQuestUSA
Harleigh’s Corner
Wow, this year has gone by fast; it still feels like January first. Speaking about January first, my family had an amazing New Year. I pray yours was great as well. We went to Greece, which was an amazing time, especially since we got to stand on Mars Hill, where Paul preached. I never thought that I would ever stand on that hill. I also got to see the Acropolis, which was the cultural center of Greece. The Greeks were very different from what we think; they made a belly button out of rock and thought it was the belly button of the world. I can’t wait to hear all about your amazing stories and all of your adventures. Please write me back. -Harleigh
Harleigh
Behind The Front Desk
At LifeQuest, we are constantly reminded that young people are shaped less by what they are told and more by what
they experience. Consistency, presence, and authentic care speak louder than words ever could. When youth
encounter adults who show up faithfully, listen without judgment, and love with patience, something powerful begins
to take root. Many of the youth we serve have learned to expect disappointment or distance from relationships. That’s
why the simple act of staying engaged — week after week — matters so deeply. Every conversation, every shared
moment, and every prayer becomes an invitation to trust again. Over time, those small, steady investments help youth
begin to see themselves differently and imagine a future grounded in hope. Thank you for supporting that mission.
Tiffany Jabour
The Community Column
4:13 Journey / 4:14 Continuing Journey
Happy Valentines Day ,
Jim here,
As we move through the month of February at LifeQuest, our focus is on one word that sits at the heart of everything we do: relationship. Ministry is built on relationships intentional, consistent, and Christ-centered connections that allow young people to feel seen, valued, and loved.
Every relationship we build with the youth we serve creates an opportunity. An opportunity to listen, to encourage, and to walk alongside them through both challenges and victories. More importantly, it gives us the privilege of introducing them to a relationship with Jesus Christ. Through trust and genuine care, we are able to point them toward the One who offers lasting hope, healing, and purpose.
At LifeQuest, we believe relationships are the foundation for transformation. Many of the young people we serve come from environments where trust has been broken or support has been inconsistent. By showing up faithfully, we demonstrate the love of Christ in tangible ways. It is through these steady relationships that walls come down, conversations deepen, and faith begins to take root.
Jesus modeled relational ministry. He met people where they were, walked with them, and loved them fully. We strive to follow His example by investing time, presence, and compassion into the lives of our youth. This month, we are reminded that relationships are not a program they are a calling. True impact is not measured by numbers alone, but by lives touched, trust built, and hearts drawn closer to Christ. Our role is to remain faithful in the relationships God has placed before us and trust Him with the outcome.
Thank you for being part of the LifeQuest mission. Your support allows us to continue building meaningful relationships and creating spaces where young people can encounter Jesus in real and life-changing ways. Together, we are investing in what matters most relationships that lead to hope, faith, and transformed lives.
Volunteers of the Month
This month, I would like to recognize a remarkable team of ladies, Connie
Maestas and Brenda Benavidez. These two women generously volunteer with LifeQuest on the JJS side,
serving as Bible Study leaders in a Boys Cottage. Their presence brings not only joy and energy but also a deep biblical passion that inspires and uplifts the young men they serve. Through their dedication, patience, and encouragement, they are making a lasting impact on the lives of these youth, helping guide them toward hope, purpose, and faith.
Thank you, Connie and Brenda, for giving your time, heart, and
talents to the young people of New Mexico. You truly make a difference!
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