Tuesday, Sept. 12, was the “Design for Life” luncheon, hosted by the Warren Christian Women.

The decorations took on the design of apples for the resource table, and prayer favors were miniature red apples. Karen Zurkan said the prayer as the meeting opened.

Speaker, Sue Balsnger of South Park, was seven years old when she was struck by a car. She was in a coma for two weeks, miraculously recovering from it. About this time her father left the family. Her mother told the children that adults make choices of their own. Sue’s maternal grandparents came to live with them and they shared their love of God with the children.

When Sue was in high school, she met Bill. They planned to marry when they finished high school. They often held hands as they walked along. One time, Sue discovered a small lump on one of Bill’s hands. It was cancerous. Sue felt “if you have the faith as the grain of a mustard seed”, that all would be well. Nine months later, Bill passed away.

So, Sue was going to do things her way. She lived in Pittsburgh where she studied interior design. She began dating a young man and moved in with him. However, no marriage happened, so she moved out. Sue decided to design her own life. She had all the things materially to be happy, but her life was still not fulfilled. About 10 years later, she met Rob. They have been happily married for 15 years.

Sue was asked to model for a Christian Women’s program where she was introduced to Stonecroft Friendship Bible studies. She learned in Jeremiah 29:10, “For I know the plans I have for you” says the Lord, “plans for good and not evil, plans to give you hope and a future”. Sue said Jesus accepts us of our own free will so that we can be made a part of God’s family.

Linda Larson of North Warren presented the Special Feature of her bracelet watch designs. Mary Highhouse of Warren sang “The Price Jesus Paid for Me” and “Calvary Is the Reason Why”.

Chairperson Birdie Crandall gave the announcements. Nancy Schuyler reported on the Village Missions and helping to keep the churches open. Mary Highhouse closed the gathering with group singing of “To God Be the Glory”.

The next luncheon will be Tuesday, Oct. 10, at noon at the Allegheny Community Center, 42 Clark Street, Warren. Cost is $9 inclusive. Feature will be various baskets raffle.

For reservations and information, call Lee Jones at 723-5952 by October 5. All women, and men, are welcome to this Christian, non-denominational gathering. A complimentary nursery is available.