3 minute read
The Spiritual and Creative Journey of Cheryl Crouch
By Anna Derbyshire ‘90
SOUTHERN NAZARENE UNIVERSITY alum Cheryl Crouch (‘91) is a living testament to the theme, He Leads Me. From her inspirational books that touch the lives of many to her heartfelt dedication to mission work, Cheryl embodies a journey of faith that resonates deeply with the wisdom of Psalm 23. Her experiences as a missionary, author, and educator are a testament to the power of faith in navigating the unknown, the impact of storytelling in shaping young minds, and the enduring legacy of a life dedicated to serving and glorifying God. Cheryl began her journey on the mission fields of Papua New Guinea, a surprise detour to the adventurous territories of Papua New Guinea, where her faith was tested and strengthened immeasurably. Facing cerebral malaria, an affliction that veiled the severity of her condition from her own understanding, she found comfort in the steadfast belief that God’s plan was at work and that He was leading her through the darkest valleys with unwavering faithfulness. Inspired by her missionary experiences, Cheryl transformed her English major from SNU into a conduit for divine storytelling. Her books are journeys of faith, hope, and love for young minds, including a stack of NMI children’s missionary stories, the celebrated Chosen Girls as well as two I Can Read series, Rainforest Friends and Super Ace. Those who read her books will find that they are not just books but vessels of God’s love and guidance, reaching out to touch readers’ hearts with the gospel’s transformative power.
Today, Cheryl’s impact reverberates beyond her written work. She is truly passionate about Christian education and is an ambassador of truth for the next generation. As an educator, she imparts wisdom and a passion for learning, seeing it as a treasure for students to explore their faith and the calling God has placed on their lives. Her advice guides those navigating the confluence of passion and service: relentlessly pursuing God’s leading and trusting in His greater plan.
Through her experiences, Cheryl exemplifies the essence of spiritual leadership and creative expression, affirming that regardless of the path we choose, it is underpinned by God’s guidance, love, and providence. The remarkable journey that she has been on of faith, creativity, and service not only enriches our understanding of “He leads me” but also illuminates the path for us to follow - a path marked by trust, dedication, and the unwavering belief in the journey God has ordained for each of us.
Like so many on their pilgrimage through the halls of SNU, she was introduced to her soulmate and husband Jeff (‘91). Cheryl’s story of faith and hope would be incomplete without mentioning her “biggest joy” and greatest legacy, her children Byron (‘17), Bradley (‘19), his wife Sadie (‘19), Brookelyn Nelson (‘20) her husband Zach Nelson (‘18) and Bethany who will graduate from SNU, 2026. They have always and still inspire her daily to walk, talk, and teach Jesus.
Reflecting on her journey, Cheryl testifies that as an impressionable young adult, SNU helped her realize the power of “purposefully different” Christian education and hopes her legacy, rooted in literature and teaching, continues to sow seeds of faith, inspiring current and future generations to explore and express their spirituality through their unique gifts and callings.
