by Susan Jacobson, staff writer/designer

"And He saved the best 'til last," said SCC's director of special events, Marge Ditka, while pointing upward and declaring her joy for Christ's work in her own life. "If I ever wrote a book, that would be its title," she added. Marge sees God in each step of her life, whether it be gardening, decorating, catering, organizing weddings, coordinating funerals, or simply walking the Stonebriar campus.

Although she prefers to remain behind the scenes, Marge's wide range of responsibilities along with her numerous life experiences have opened the doors for many relationships and ministry opportunities at Stonebriar. Not having heard the Gospel until the age of 40, she now has a sense of vigor, purpose, and a heart for ministering to those seeking hope in life. "God leads people to me—I identify with their fears of the unknown, their thoughts of 'I will never be good enough to listen to this.' But God uses broken vessels—just look at Paul!"

Marge humbly admits that even after ten years she is still surprised she works at a church. "If you would have told me years ago that I'd be here, I would
never have believed it." She loves working at a place of worship that is full of people from all walks of life. "Our church is filled with real, broken people, and that helps us relate to others." Many of these relationships have deepened as Marge has helped coordinate special events including weddings and funerals.

Supporting families and being sensitive to needs during times of grief is an area of ministry dear to her heart. "We cannot fully understand the impact we make during these times. But I know now how important it is to make funerals as soothing, peaceful, and uncomplicated as we possibly can."

She believes it is the small things, the attention to details, that make the biggest difference. Most importantly, she believes that daily immersion in the Bible is what is needed to make it through difficult times. "Take in as much of the Word of God as you can. If you listen, store it in your soul, and obey, life on earth becomes filled with joy."