I feel it is essential for you to know why I, Mark, am involved in Magdalene’s Light.

Let me tell you my story.

I had resisted the voice of God calling me from my teen years up until I was 34 years old.

Along the way, I struggled with drug and alcohol addictions.

I finally surrendered my mess to Jesus, and He set me free.

For 29 years now (July 15, 1995), I have set out to serve the Lord. I have worked in youth

ministry, as a local church pastor, and as the director of our denominational camp. For some of

that time I have been serving in Celebrate Recovery. Since I have been forgiven much, it seems I

should give back to others (Luke 7:47; Celebrate Recovery, Step 12).

During my tenure at Cedar Springs Camp & Retreat, I prayed that I might use the ministry to help

those in recovery. I know getting into God’s creation is a great healing therapy. It’s been a long

time coming, but God has opened the door for me to serve in this residential program that will

help women.

I must confess, I have been a little apprehensive to help launch such a ministry. I am a man,

what could I know about the struggles women go through?

It seems like Magdalene’s Light should be led by women. However, I am excited about the team of

women who will be leading our transitional living home. Each one of them brings experience and

compassion to this mission. For now, though, God has given me the opportunity to shepherd this

project into being. My experience at Cedar Springs has been valuable.

There is more to my involvement than just this! 

I urge you to watch a movie produced locally in Iowa about the problem of human trafficking called “Gridstock.” I believe it will help open your eyes to the problem. Contact the North Iowa Coalition Against Human Trafficking to find out how you can see it.

As I get to know more and more stories, I find that most of them have involved men who have

abused and/or taken advantage of women. It is difficult to admit, but I have been one of those

men. Something that God has helped me recover from through Celebrate Recovery.

When it comes to sexual exploitation and human trafficking, men drive demand.

I need to say and do something.

So, I lead a men’s accountability group outside of CR. This is how I can personally give back, by being a small part of a promising ministry that looks to help women find healing and purpose in life.

It is an important calling, and I love the small part I have in building God’s kingdom through

Magdalene’s Light.