Helen* was devoted to Jesus and thrilled to learn the oral Bible stories in the School of Storying developed and taught by Cru’s StoryRunners Ministry. She wanted to share the stories with others in her community.

But Reth*, Helen’s husband, is the tribal leader in their community. It’s his traditional role to guard the culture and the indigenous faith, and to preside over the religious rituals. 

When Helen chose to follow Jesus, Reth was displeased. What would their tribe think of a leader whose wife doesn’t even take part in their rituals or believe in their traditional gods?

Reth became gravely ill, and the local healer couldn’t help him. Helen believed Jesus could heal her husband, but she was afraid to mention it to him because he was so angry with her for becoming a Christian. 

Then came a long night that the sickness grew worse and worse. Reth was restless, groaning, and in pain for hours, and Helen finally worked up the courage to begin telling him about Jesus through the stories she had learned. Reth listened.

If Jesus could truly heal him, Reth decided, he would follow Jesus. He prayed in his heart and finally drifted off to sleep. A few hours later, he awakened, feeling much better. He called out to Helen, asking her to come and finish telling him those stories about Jesus! Today Reth and Helen are both following Jesus and sharing the gospel using StoryRunners’ oral Bible Studies.

Cru launched StoryRunners in 2003 to take God’s Word to oral learners in unreached people groups. StoryRunners equips people to produce oral Bible stories in their heart language to reach those who do not have access to the Bible. They use the Bible storysets for evangelism, discipleship, and church planting. Go to StoryRunners.org to learn more. 

I started serving with StoryRunners in November. I am excited to use my God given gifts to reach oral learners in unreached people groups with the gospel. Robin is leading a team that helps people navigate the process of becoming full-time missionaries with Cru. Robin and I are blessed to have you in our lives and ministry. 

Yours in Christ, 

Steve & Robin