Light in Darkness

Light. It's a symbol of hope. Of something greater than ourselves. And two Marble Hill, Mo., ladies have made it their mission to spread this hope to others they believe are in darkness.

Carolyn Knight and Sun Stevens lead a ministry called Light in Darkness. And the two ladies do more than talk a good talk. They share a Christian message to women working at nude clubs.

They say their goal is to preach Christlike inclusion -- and not judgment.

Standing outside the establishments, Knight and Stevens hand out a small booklet filled with Bible verses and testimonies from other women in the community. Their goal: To let the women know there is a "better way."

Knight and Stevens also reach out to women involved in prostitution.

The Coalition Against Trafficking of Women says that according to a study, 92 percent of women involved in prostitution would like to quit but feel they can't due to a lack of services.

This is another area where the Light in Darkness ministry, a 501(c)3 organization, comes in. The organization helps women in less than ideal situations find a different occupation, as well as furniture for their residence. And the ladies hope the women will eventually become Christians.

The women leading the Light in Darkness ministry don't just talk about concerns or the plight of others, they seek to have an effect. They are among many churches and faith-based organizations in Southeast Missouri who do important work that should be recognized.