Greenville, Wisconsin — Stonecroft Ministries launched many a journey for Marge Hunter.
Through Stonecroft Bible Studies God’s Word became alive, revealing that salvation didn’t depend on her attempts at righteousness, but on faith in what Jesus Christ accomplished at the cross.
Because of Stonecroft, Marge guided her own studies, became a coordinator, and began to lead Stonecroft Bible Studies for women at a local crisis pregnancy center.
And because Stonecroft Bible Studies planted and nurtured seeds of truth in good soil, Marge not only endured the most painful experience of her life, but walked away with a clearer understanding of human suffering.
Four years ago, Marge and her husband, Bill, served as volunteers for a Bible translation ministry. Bill, near retirement age, used his skills in construction and remodeling to perform various improvements and projects. While they visited Florida for one of these projects, Bill became ill and they discovered he suffered from acute leukemia. Three months later, Marge lost her husband of nearly 50 years.
“The pain, the terrific pain I went through was horrible,” Marge said. “It was difficult to get up in the morning. I had some very dark days. But the Stonecroft leadership and people I worked with were right with me from the time of his diagnosis in so many ways.
“What also happened is that I have more of a heart for people who are suffering. I can understand how a person can turn to other things when they’re going through terrific pain if they don’t have Jesus Christ, and the pain I felt from the loss of my husband was one that would drive you to something—just for one minute of relief. My heart has changed toward all kinds of people. I understand what people are going through when they say they are hurting. I prayed for people before, but didn’t know what it was like to go through it.”
Marge still coordinates Stonecroft Bible Studies. She guides two studies a week and substitutes for other instructors when needed. She participates in her church’s Bible study and, thanks to her Stonecroft sisters, is getting back to normal.
“It’s one day at a time,” she said. “Way back there God called me for a Bible study and Stonecroft was the key in bringing that along. I’ve continued to grow, grow, and grow.”