Providing a place for healing in a supportive and intimate setting for women in controlling relationships, the local support group Hiding Hurting & Healing will begin a five-week series that is held every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. beginning April 3 through May 1.
Now in its 25th year, Hiding, Hurting & Healing is a faith-based, non-denominational ministry that welcomes women from all walks of life. Its founder, the Rev. JoAnne Crosby, started her group in the Twin Cities and has grown to address issues like abuse, betrayal, trauma, shame and forgiveness.
“We have people come in and talk about their life experiences and the really big advantage is the group discussion,” Crosby said. “That’s when the women really get to know each other. And it’s all confidential.”
This series will focus on topics including abuse, rejection, shame, victory in the thought life, victory over barriers to love, purpose and destiny.
Years ago, Crosby overcame a difficult period of depression while navigating a troubled marriage to an alcoholic husband. Through the ministry of Billy Graham and Alcoholics Anonymous, the couple turned to faith, leading to her husband’s recovery.
They have been married for 67 years.
Crosby studied chemical dependency counseling and worked on a 24-hour prayer line. She also ran an anger management group for men.
Inspired by her own experiences, Crosby supports women facing similar challenges in her ministry and invites all to attend.
“Sometimes we get so damaged with life that we don’t want to risk loving anybody anymore,” Crosby said. “If you want to support others or gain insight from the Bible on navigating challenging relationships, this program is for you.”
Hiding, Hurting & Healing begins Thursday, April 3, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Desert Creek Fellowship, 15024 N. Ivory Drive. There is no registration required.
For further information, contact Rev. JoAnne Crosby at 763-242-9181, by email at joannecrosby40@yahoo.com or by visiting hidinghurtinghealing.com.
Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines. Cyrus Guccione can be reached at cguccione@iniusa.org.
By 
