Friends of the Heart
sharing God's love through testimony, drama, and song
Kim Messinger is our singer. Having grown up in Blandon, Pennsylvania, she holds an Associate Degree in Bible from Lancaster Bible College, an Undergrad Degree in Elementary Education from Millersville University, and a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Nova Southeastern University. She puts her extensive studies to the test on a daily basis, as she serves as a first grade teacher in a public school.
On the ministry side of things, Kim volunteers as youth director at Hillside Christian Fellowship in Millersburg, PA. She has also served as Christian education director and worship leader for her church, and has been part of several different music groups. Is it obvious yet that this girl can sing?
Thankfully, teenage sons Micah and Caleb support their mom, but keep her busy with all the sports and bands they're involved in. Kim's wonderful husband Matthew helps maintain order by cooking, cleaning, and even writing an occasional love note to his wife. Don't they say that behind every happy woman is a man who doesn't mind doing the dishes?
Kim's contagious enthusiasm for the Lord, though, is what really makes her stand out. Regardless of her circumstances, she just loves Christ and loves to worship Him. Even if it means worshiping while tending her herb garden, a favorite hobby.
Janine Boyer is our athlete.
Born in Millersburg, Pennsylvania, Janine graduated from Millersville University and is now the mom of two college students herself! Ryan attends Bucknell University and Megan, Penn State.
Janine married her high school sweetheart, Dave, and together they enjoy experiencing life with their family.
Most of Janine's personal time is spent working in a family business, but she manages to squeeze in favorite activities like playing and watching sports, reading, and hanging out with her family. Janine also serves as a youth leader, and leads a prayer ministry.
But her uniqueness in ministry comes from a heart in touch with the hurts of others. Her empathy is based on her own personal loss, giving her the ability to really feel for others. Through overcoming much, Janine has developed a desire to help people find peace and contentment in their identity in Christ while developing a close friendship with Him.
Shirley Brosius is our writer.She grew up on a farm in the country, but quickly adapted to town life, graduating from both Bloomburg University and Evangelical Theological Seminary. She holds a Master's Degree in Christian Education and for ten years served as a director of Christian education. But before getting into ministry full time, Shirley was a high school business education teacher.
To be fair, she's been working in full-time ministry since her children were born--doesn't motherhood count as a unique serving opportunity? Even if you're mostly just serving peanut-butter sandwiches? Thankfully, her grown sons Ted and Terry can now make sandwiches themselves, mostly for their own kids, as Shirley and husband Bill boast five adorable grandchildren.
Being a grandmother certainly keeps Shirley thinking creatively, as does her passion for writing. Shirley's publication credits include Angels on Earth, Country Journal, Farm and Ranch Living, Living With Teenagers, and Pennsylvania Magazine. Her Christian education articles have appeared in a variety of denominational publications, and she has written hundreds of feature stories for Harrisburg's Patriot-News. She has also published Ten Men Who Made a Difference as an Amazon Short and is a member of Pennwriters and the Authors Guild.
But her greatest accomplishment in the writing arena is her first book, Sisterhood of Faith: 365 Life-Changing Stories about Women Who Made a Difference. Howard Publishing, a division of Simon & Schuster, released her book in October 2006. Its tribute to inspirational women showcases the contribution they have made to Christianity. Profiles include "messages" and "responses" to inspire readers. The stories of historic heroines and contemporary trend setters seeks to encourage Christian servants who have grown weary and offer ideas to those looking for workable ministries in today's busy world. The book received the 2009 Gold Award in the category of inspirational/spiritual from Young Voices Foundation. Find more information, including how to purchase your own copy, on the "What We've Written" page. Upon reading Shirley's book, you'll discover that she, too, is a true "sister of faith."
All in all, Shirley is a friend, spiritual mentor, partner in ministry, and sister in the Lord. She enjoys offering dramatic presentations of lengthy passages of scripture, such as the book of Philippians or the first few chapters of the gospel of John, from memory. She is also a Stonecroft Ministries speaker. And her other favorite activities, reading, walking, and entertaining others in her home, also revolve around a desire to serve the Lord "at any age, at any stage."
