Jeanne McGonagill

I grew up in the Episcopal church and was “sprinkled” as a baby. At the age of 12, I was confirmed, which made me a member of the church, however, I wasn’t deeply rooted in my faith. At 22, I got married but my husband was not a believer. We had three children, Allen, Dixon and Trace. I took the children to church often, but my marriage was struggling. At the age of 52, after thirty years of marriage, we went through a difficult divorce. As I look back, I know that Jesus carried me through that time. 

I had struggled with depression all of my life; I felt unloved and I attempted suicide. Jesus protected me from myself and saved my life, again. After my divorce, I needed a source of income, so I began cleaning houses. I met Geneva Stagg, who was also cleaning homes and we began working together. As Geneva shared about the Lord, I started wondering more and more about Jesus. I wanted to know God and His Word. I started going to the Precepts Bible study with Geneva. I loved sitting under the wise and godly teaching of Marie Strain. 

In 2018, I went through another difficult time. My oldest son, who was living with me at the time, died from complications due to diabetes. It was only because of faith in Jesus, and my deepening walk with Him, that I was able to go on. I started attending Living Hope and joined a small group. I enjoyed the fellowship, the honest sharing and the deep caring that I experienced as part of that group. I also grew spiritually as I sat under the weekly teaching of Gib. 

When I decided that I wanted to become a member of Living Hope, Ron Favaloro graciously walked me through the baptism process. He even offered for me to get baptized in his pool! I am so grateful for those who came to celebrate this joyous event with me…my small group, my friends and family and the God I serve!