HEATING UP IN ALASKA
Anchorage, Alaska—While wintry highs are doing well to crack the single digits, not everything in Alaska is chilly. In the past two months, Stonecroft Bible Studies activities have been heating up all over the state.
Seven Christmas Gatherings, held in December, served as the launchpad for at least four new studies beginning in January.
Stonecroft leaders throughout the state have been praying for Bible studies to begin in the outlying villages. At least nine studies have started in response.
The first Stonecroft Bible Study to be held in Skagway began this month.
Teenagers are joining together in a study of Who is Jesus? in Dillingham.
Missionaries in seven villages are also beginning Who is Jesus? studies.
And Stonecroft leaders across the state continue praying, planning, and presenting Stonecroft Bible Studies so many others can hear the good news of Jesus Christ.
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SKYROCKETING STUDY
Kansas City, Missouri—For Brenda Cosgrove, who works in the Stonecroft Resource Center and specializes in processing orders for Stonecroft Bible Studies, the skyrocketing requests for Why Believe? Investigate Evidence for Faith are a great way to start her day—or restart it after lunch.
“I just got back from lunch and there are about 20 more orders on the line,” Brenda said Monday afternoon. “I don’t know how many of them are Why Believe?, but some of them are, I’m sure.”
Why Believe? was just released last month. As of the last week of February, 4,316 Why Believe? study books have been ordered. Joining those orders has been 845 Guide books. Those amounts dwarf orders for other Stonecroft Bible Studies.
“Why Believe? has definitely caused more orders to come in than usual,” Brenda said. “It’s been so exciting. It’s exciting because we know that when the studies go out, that means that people are getting into the Word of God and learning of Jesus’ love for them.”
Learn more about Why Believe? and other Stonecroft Bible Studies, then plan to start one in your community.
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UP, UP, AND AWAY
Lee’s Summit, MO—If you are a fan of the reality television show, The Apprentice, you may remember Felisha, a pilot and real estate developer, who starred in the fourth season. On Wednesday morning, February 21, the Lee’s Summit Christian Women’s Club had the privilege of hearing her speak. She focused on her newest adventure, which includes handling public relations for Kansas City’s Airline History Museum. “She was very interesting to listen to,” said Joan Johnson, a new Stonecroft staff member. “You can tell that flying is one of her passions.”
The event, which was titled “Up, Up, and Away,” attracted almost 50 people.
Kathy Coleman, a former flight attendant, also spoke on how she has overcome trials throughout her life by leaning on Jesus Christ and allowing Him to give her strength.
“It was a wonderful time of fellowship and people coming together,” commented Joan.
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WHO'S IN CHARGE?
Lynchburg, Virginia—Stonecroft Regional Administrator Elsie Melton was understandably concerned. Not long before the Lynchburg Women’s Connection was to meet in September, both the Chair and the Area Representative stepped down. Unfortunately, not many plans had been made for the September meeting—there was no meeting place, no feature, and no invitations had been printed.
Elsie decided that the only thing she could do was pray. “I told God, ‘You have to help!’” In answer, she felt that God was saying, “You pray for the lost. I’ll bring the lost.” Instead of canceling the September event, she decided to go ahead with it. God graciously allowed things to be pulled together quickly.
In both September and October, the group had more than 70 women attend, and first-time guests numbered in the teens. In January, there were 101 women, and last week, 91 attended the February event—despite terrible weather.
One of the guests mentioned that the lunches were fantastic and couldn’t believe that so much was getting done with the limited number of volunteers. “She asked how we were doing it,” says Elsie. “The person she asked told her, ‘It’s because God’s in control.’ I thought that was the perfect answer.”share your story here
MEET EMILY
Stonecroft is pleased to announce that Emily Firnstahl, from Lakeville, Minnesota, has joined its Board of Directors. Please take a minute to read how Emily became involved with Stonecroft and what she hopes to accomplish in her new role!
After seeing an advertisement for a Stonecroft outreach group and being invited by her sister-in-law to an event, Emily decided to give Stonecroft a shot. It was at the next event, a month later, that she knew she wanted to be a Stonecroft volunteer. After she successfully coordinated a creative book promotion, the Planning Team quickly asked her to assume the role of Chair. Now, eighteen years later, she serves as a Stonecroft Regional Speaker Trainer.
“I’m looking forward to seeing how the ministry will be shaped for the future,” said Emily. “As Christian women, we have tremendous opportunities and challenges right now to make a difference. On the board, we will explore how to position Stonecroft to make the biggest impact on our world. It’s also a real privilege to be on a board with such a high caliber of godly women.”share your story here
MARCHING THROUGH GEORGIA
Waleska, Georgia—God is on the move in Georgia and He is using women with a vision for outreach. In January, Shona Roberts organized an outreach meeting in nearby Lake Arrowhead. More than 200 women attended—and many expressed a desire for Bible study. Last week, Bette Fauquet, Stonecroft’s Ministry Development Coordinator, arrived in the area to help launch Stonecroft Bible Studies.
After the introductory meeting, Shona e-mailed many of those who had been involved in the outreach event and told them, “I am e-mailing you because I want you to pray and search your heart and ask God what He wants you to do regarding those around you. Last night, I attended a meeting that dealt with Stonecroft Bible Studies. The goal of these studies is to reach out and invite your friends, neighbors, and coworkers. It was really powerful because God is at work in the lives of those around us.
"On the outside, people may look like they have it together—but on the inside, they are just crumbling and hurting so bad as they search for answers. These studies may be just what they need. I pray that God will move in your heart and that you will seek to join Him where He is working. Let’s all make a difference together for our Lord and Savior.”
During her week-long visit, Bette was able to train two Coordinators and begin four Bible studies of Why Believe? Twenty-three women are currently involved, with the hope of many more joining in. They are also praying for additional Guides.
Farther south, in the community of Forsyth, God was preparing another area for outreach. On January 25, we told you of Maria Stewart’s desire for an outreach group there. Last Thursday, February 15, more than 20 women joined Maria and Stonecroft Regional Administrator Delores Burkett for an informational and planning meeting. Their enthusiasm level was off the charts and they have slated March 16 as the date for their first outreach event.
During the Civil War, Union troops marched through Georgia, leaving a trail of death, devastation, and despair. But in 2007, as God’s troops are on the march, the result will be life, hope, and transformation.
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DETENTION STUDIES
Raymondville, Texas—Every Tuesday at 6 p.m. for the past three and a half years, Special Ministries Coordinator Bonnie Brown drives to a local adult detention facility, where she guides Stonecroft Bible Studies with the women staying there.
While the double barb wire fences surrounding the facility appear daunting, Bonnie is not deterred. She continues through the five locked doors and security checks because she desires that the women come to know Jesus personally.
“For many, it is their first experience to come together with other women to pray, study, and learn about a relationship with the Lord,” explains Bonnie. “Many have made personal spiritual commitments, have gotten to know God personally, and have learned to pray together and individually.”
Pray that God would continue to guide and direct Bonnie as she guides these studies.
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FAMILY FIRST
"Science without religion is lame; religion without science is blind." Albert Einstein
Kalama, Washington—The above words
of world renowned physicist Albert Einstein, quoted in the new Stonecroft
Bible Study Why Believe?, made several speak out their surprise
in Kalama, Washington. Gathered for the first lesson were District Consulting
Coordinator Faye Miller’s family, friends, and residents of the apartment
complex where her aunt lives. She and her husband Gary had invited 20 people
to attend whose faith and Bible understanding were all over the map.
Faye believes that the challenge to reach out to those whom Jesus is missing
most begins right at home in our own families. She and her husband drove 35 miles
to a setting that was central to family members, making this study available
to those whom they love most. Their hope is that through this study, Jesus will
make Himself known in their hearts and that on the day of God's grand family
reunion they will all be there together.
One who was at the study had only just begun his journey with the Lord in December
at an outreach dinner in Longview, Washington. He shared with the group how he
has just finished reading the Bible all the way through (in just under two months)! Why
Believe? is his first Bible study. He loves it!
Pray with Gary and Faye as they continue to reach out in love to this great
big family. And Faye encourages you to pray and ask God to lead you to someone
or a group of someones you can do this study with. As she says, “The
result will be glory for God and joy for you as you see lives changed and
God's family expanding.”
(Some background on how this study came about can be read in the December 14, 2006 and January 2, 2007 Stonecroft Live! archives.)
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MEET MAYE
Richmond, VA—Stonecroft Ministries is pleased to announce three new members to its Board of Directors: Maye Jepson (Richmond, Virginia), Emily Firnstahl (Lakeville, Minnesota), and Nancy Reimann (Arden Hills, Minnesota). God has directed these women to Stonecroft in unique ways and placed different passions on each of their hearts. For the next three Thursdays, Stonecroft Live will be featuring these dynamic women.
Here is a glimpse into Maye’s life and her hopes for the future:
“When you think about ministries that are completely committed to
evangelism, not many come to mind,” said Maye. “That is why
I’m so excited to be part of this board. Evangelism is Stonecroft’s
heartbeat—it’s what we do!”
Almost 29 years ago, Maye wanted to start a Bible study in her neighborhood in Charleston, West Virginia. After asking around, God connected her with a Stonecroft volunteer. Maye quickly became a volunteer as well.
God made it clear that she supposed to continue with Stonecroft. As her husband was transferred and she moved with him around the country, she kept running into Stonecroft volunteers in each new location. “Many times, I think God is moving women around for ministry and their husbands’ transfer is just a tool that He uses,” she commented.
“I’m so thrilled about this new challenge. I believe the best asset that I can offer this board is that I represent the volunteers. I’ve held almost every position possible and worked with so many different types of women. I understand them and know what they are going through!”
Be sure to check Live next Thursday to meet Emily!
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THE MOST IMPORTANT THING
Allentown, PA—We never know how God will use the little things we do in service to Him to make a major impact in someone’s life. When Barb learned that a friend’s daughter and son-in-law had died in a plane crash, she immediately called to see how her friend was doing and if there was anything she could do for her. Her friend’s response? She told Barb that by hosting a Stonecroft Bible Study all those years before, she had done the most important thing. She stated that she never would have been able to live through these moments of heartache and grief if it hadn’t been for the faith she was able to grow learning about God and His Word around Barb’s kitchen table.
Today, as thousands of people around the world are learning God’s Word through a Stonecroft Bible Study, thank God for people like Barb who serve as Guides and Hosts to help make these opportunities possible.
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REACHING OUT
Fayetteville, North Carolina—Snyder Memorial Baptist Church is adamant about reaching the lost. Consulting Coordinator Lynne O’Quinn is helping to make it happen.
Snyder Memorial is the largest church in the county and ministers to those who live at Fort Bragg, the local military base. This church is using Stonecroft Bible Studies to spread the word about Jesus Christ, with many study groups boasting military families. One unique example of family participation—after less than a week of recuperation following a C-section, a young military wife attended a study with her newborn, two-year-old, and her husband because she didn’t want to miss a lesson!
Many of the men and women in these studies will be transferred to another posting, and take the study program to their next station. “It’s comforting to know that they’re taking Stonecroft with them,” Lynne explains. “I stand in awe at how they’ve grown through these studies.”
Stonecroft Bible Studies started at Snyder Memorial with only four women. Now, after a year and a half, about 100 people are attending Stonecroft’s studies—with at least six new attendees per study group.
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CONNECTING WITH PEOPLE
Rancho Bernardo, California—“Create the Life You Want to Live” was the topic for the recent outreach here. Sounds fairly traditional, but this luncheon was different.
Women were invited to participate, volunteered to share their experiences from the microphone, and interacted with one another during this event. Chair and featured speaker Mary Beth King calls it a workshop.
“We want to create a connection among the women here—give them an opportunity to speak with one another and get to know each other,” says Mary Beth. “The desire to connect with people is part of the humanness we all have—the way God made us.”
After an interview-type format for an opening, Mary Beth had each woman in attendance find someone she didn’t know. Once in pairs, each woman answered a series of questions Mary Beth had outlined. “These women genuinely connected,” Mary Beth said. “I came down off the stage and wandered. There was a buzz in the room.”
After more interaction, and after several women shared their experiences of the day from the microphone, Mary Beth was able to smoothly transition into telling about the connection God desires to have with each person and how Jesus Christ has made that relationship possible.
Many signed up for Stonecroft Bible Studies together; others expressed interest in helping with the outreach group, and a few wanted to know how to grown stronger in their faith.
“I am excited to see what God is going to do,” Mary Beth says.
The group’s next meeting is Wednesday for a traditional Valentine’s Day outreach luncheon.
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ROAD RADIANCE
Edina, Minnesota—When JoAnne Boche was invited to be the feature guest for an outreach group in St. Paul, Minnesota, she didn’t think much about it. As a professional speaker for AAA, it was just one of the many groups of people she would present information to.
This was not the first outreach group that JoAnne had attended as a feature guest. However, it was the first time that she was moved by anything the guest speaker said. “The speaker talked about how she had wandered into the wilderness,” shares JoAnne. “It got my attention.”
JoAnne prayed to accept Jesus Christ as her Savior that day. She has since become a speaker for Stonecroft herself. “I often talked about road rage for AAA,” says JoAnne. “I decided to base my Stonecroft talk on Psalm 34:5, which says, ‘Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.’ I don’t have road rage—I have road radiance!”
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SHOWING GOD'S LOVE
Central Texas—Last Sunday, Shirley, a Friendship Bible Coffee Guide, led the Stonecroft Bible Study Who is Jesus? in an abused women’s shelter. “It was wonderful,” she exclaimed. “We had three women attend, two teenagers—a boy and a girl—and two six-year-olds.”
The group was very receptive and is looking forward to the next lesson. “The teenage boy was so excited that I looked down and he had already filled out his study book,” Shirley commented. “You could tell that it meant something to him that someone was taking interest in him.”
Shirley explained that she is not concerned about the number of people who attend a study. “If there is only one person there, then that is who God intended to be there. He is such a good God. I hope and pray that something we do or say will give these women and their families hope. They have been through so much. But, we can rise above what we’ve been through with Jesus. We make sure that we don’t preach—we just show them God’s love. I’m so humbled that He would use me in this way.”
Shirley also thanks Stonecroft for supplying Bible studies for this type of outreach. “I’m so grateful because these women would not be able to afford the studies on their own,” she said. “Stonecroft is a very special ministry to me.”
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GOD ON THE MOVE IN INDIO
Indio, California—The East Valley Christian Women’s Club has welcomed 130 first timers to their monthly outreach luncheons in the past three months. More than 200 reservations have come in for Saturday’s guest night, which gives Gayle Mead and the others on the planning team there much to praise God for and to pray about.
“We have a wonderful group of gals working together here,” said Gayle, the chair of the group. “God is really blessing us.”
The group welcomed 76 first timers in November and 26 in December. Last month, 32 first timers attended and all have heard the Gospel clearly. Hostesses make it a point to call those who sit at their tables and invite them to the next outreach luncheon.
The pastor of a local church has supported the work of Stonecroft in the area and women from that church have started three Stonecroft Bible Studies recently.
Tuesday’s Prayer Connection paved the way for this weekend’s special event.
Saturday, the author of Stonecroft Life Publication “Live to the Limit,” Russell O’Quinn, will talk about his life as a test pilot and the encounter with Jesus Christ that forever changed his life.
Pray that those who attend will hear clearly what God is saying to them. Ask God’s favor and blessing upon Mr. O’Quinn, and upon those within earshot of his voice—that those who have not accepted God’s free gift of salvation through the blood of His Son Jesus Christ would make that decision.
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REUNION AND REJOICING
Kansas City, Missouri—Twice a year, the Stonecroft Ministries Board of Directors travels to the Stonecroft campus to conduct their meetings. For staff and directors alike, this time together seems like a family reunion—a time to renew friendships and catch up on each others’ lives. This year’s January gathering had an added measure of excitement as the Stonecroft Field Directors and the Advancement team joined the mix and held their meetings during the same week.
The highlight of the week was when the entire group gathered together on Thursday, January 18, for a Morning of Prayer. As has been the custom for the past six years, the Board of Directors led this time. The morning’s theme was the prayer acronym ACTS, which stands for Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication. Each of these areas was considered and approached through song; scripture; personal, small groups, and corporate prayer.
This precious time of prayer also included two commissionings. Prayers of thanksgiving and dedication were offered for Cheryl Davis, the new Vice President of Ministry, and Vera Velk, incoming Chair of the Board of Directors.
Outgoing Board Chair Phyllis Stern closed the morning with a message of God’s faithfulness—both personally and to Stonecroft Ministries—during her six years of service. She challenged each one of us to seek God’s will and His vision. Her closing words rang with the hope, excitement, and energy that God is on the move. “Let the heart of Stonecroft seek God continually for His purity, so we may see Him and His vision for us. Let the heart of Stonecroft recognize daily our tremendous need, so we’ll be part of the Holy Spirit’s movement in this world. Let the heart of Stonecroft rejoice—for once again God has begun to do things in our midst that only Almighty God can do.”
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HEROES IN PRAYER
South Africa—“Crime is a major challenge in [South Africa],” states Colleen Smith, who is the Prayer Director for Stonecroft Ministries Southern Africa. Every day, men and women on the police force risk their lives when dealing with wayward criminals. The Stonecroft leaders in South Africa strive to pray regularly for these men and women at local Prayer Connections.
Recently in Gauteng, members of the police force were invited to the local outreach group. Several police officers have become regular attendees. As a result, prayer meetings are now held at two police stations in Gauteng.
Please pray for God’s protection for the men and women who risk their lives every day so that other South Africans may live at peace. Ask Him to use those officers who know and love Him to be His light in the darkness.
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STONECROFT HEART AWARD HONOREE
Kansas City, Missouri—Prior to IMPACT ’06 (April 24-26), the Stonecroft Ministries board and staff asked volunteers to send in nominations for a “Stonecroft Heart Award” recipient—someone who exemplifies the heart of Stonecroft. Because so many good nominations were received, it was decided that in addition to the Heart Award recipient, there would be twelve other honorees. Every month, we feature one of these honorees on Stonecroft Live.
“Her commitment and dedication to this ministry are legendary!” So
are the words of someone who nominated this month’s honoree—Ann
Gustafson. Ann is a Stonecroft Regional Administrator for the state of Nebraska,
and obviously, a legend in the minds of the leaders there!
So many tremendous qualities were mentioned by those who nominated Ann: her heart for prayer, her willingness to drive long distances, her wise counsel, and her investment in people of “all ages, races, classes, localities, and status.” Ann’s calm and thoughtful leadership have touched many women. Most of all, those around Ann see her as an encourager and a faithful representative of Jesus. As one nominee says, “She brings the fragrance of Christ wherever she goes.”
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TAKING OFF
Decorah, Iowa—Stonecroft Couples is taking off all over the country. National Directors Chuck and Sara Stophel are in awe at the way that God is using this ministry to draw people to Him.
“We are finding that couples are excited about the opportunity to be able to serve in ministry together,” commented Chuck. “Stonecroft Couples gives them a practical vehicle to share the hope of Jesus Christ with their friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers.”
“Recently, I drove hours to speak at a Stonecroft Couples event in Decorah, Iowa. I was tired and knew that it would be a small group. We were only expecting 38 people. But, do you know that 10 people prayed to receive Christ as their Savior that night? New couples are now getting involved with this group—all different ages are connecting. At another recent event, one married couple accepted Jesus as their Savior for the first time. They had both been leaders in their church for years, but had never actually invited Jesus into their hearts. They finally realized that Jesus wanted a personal relationship with them. Praise God for how He is working!”
Learn more about Stonecroft Couples
