Protestant women’s group helps connect newcomers to Kirtland community

  • Published
  • By Ryan Stark
  • Nucleus writer
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Katie Niebes, president of Kirtland Protestant Women of the Chapel, wants to entice new members.

"We feel like the Lord said, 'grow,'" Niebes said.

The group now has about 95 members, 60 of whom are regular participants. Most are wives of Airmen, but the group is open to anyone with base access. Members include Sandia National Laboratories employees and wives of retirees.

"It's geared toward military spouses, but anyone is welcome," Niebes said. "We have open arms, just like the chaplains."

Chaplain Capt. Thomas Peck said initiatives like the Protestant women's group are helpful for newcomers.

That was certainly the case six years ago when Niebes and her family -- now on their second stint at Kirtland -- moved to the Air Force base for the first time.

"It made her feel at home here and helps to create instant friendship and camaraderie," Peck said. "As people move in, this is one of the great opportunities out there to get involved with people who have shared values and beliefs."

The Protestant Women of the Chapel group is holding several upcoming events to help draw in newcomers and others:

■ An ice cream social will be at 11:30 a.m. Friday at Marquez Park.

■ There will be a "Popsicle play date" event Aug. 11 starting at 11:30 a.m. at Marquez Park.

■ An open house will be Aug. 16 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Base Chapel.

The group also holds Bible study courses and there is a children's ministry for participants during adult-oriented activities.

There is no fee to participate in the group.

To learn more about PWOC, email kirtlandpwoc@gmail.com.