My name is Christopher Navarro-Barajas, or you can call me Chris. I currently live in Las Vegas, NV, but before, I was in NYC for 4 years as a college student before returning almost a year ago. Despite still looking for a job, I am extremely grateful that God has led me to serve at the Prince of Peace Parish as a lector, a catechist for 5th and 6th graders in their first year of First Holy Communion, a volunteer for OCIA, a youth leader, and now in the choir. It has been a fulfilling time so far, and He has helped me to grow in my faith tremendously. I do hope to pursue a master's degree in theology, youth ministry, or some other related area in a year or so.
I decided to be a missionary this year with Biking for Babies after going to the SEEK conference this past January in Denver with a couple of people from my parish. When I visited the St. Cabrini Shrine there, I felt God's voice saying to me to go on a mission with Him. I did not fully understand what it could be, but that compelled me to apply for missionary opportunities once I came back home. Biking for Babies was one of them, and after going through the discernment process, God was leading me to this opportunity.
What I am doing as a first-year missionary is to make the culture of life more of a living reality. I'm bringing love to others through encounters that remind them their lives matter to God 100%, especially during the National Ride from Columbus, Ohio, to St. Louis, Missouri, this summer from July 11th to the 19th. My biggest "why" is to signify the role of motherhood that is no longer a gift today and that has created division. I want to dedicate my entire life to communicating the gift of family life in my community and the world because there has been a transition towards individualism, and an environment of empathy and support goes a long way for people not to forget their loved ones. This work is for all women who are going through unplanned pregnancies, and they need extra support more than ever. I offer everything that comes about to Christ through our Most Blessed Mother so more people turn their hearts back toward Him and live out the Gospel of Life.
I'm partnering up with Allyfe (ALL-LIFE) Pregnancy Clinic in Las Vegas. At Allyfe (ALL-LIFE) Pregnancy Clinic, they're here to support moms, dads, and families with free, compassionate care. For the past 41 years, they've served the Southern Nevada community from the heart of the medical district, walking alongside thousands of families through unexpected and life-changing moments. Their vision is to ensure every woman knows she is loved, cherished, and provided with the resources she needs to help her family thrive. They offer free pregnancy verification, certified counseling, prenatal medical care, fatherhood mentoring, educational classes, and material support through the baby’s third birthday. For more information, you can also visit their website at www.allyfe.org.
Join me in Biking for Babies' mission by making a gift toward my fundraising campaign. Your gift out of charity supports our mission to renew the culture of life by forming young adult missionaries and raising awareness and funds for pregnancy resource centers that support pregnant women across the country. Thank you for reading up to this point, and let's revitalize the culture of life.