Rodney the rooster loves living in the lilac bush. He loves to crow and wake the sun! When summer begins to fade, the other chickens and chicks move to the warmth of the coop. Rodney wants to stay right where he is happy: at the lilac bush! But when snow starts flying, will brave Rodney overcome winter’s fury?
Terry Craven, a devoted minister and visionary community leader, brings her heartfelt faith and storytelling to life in her enchanting children’s book, Rodney the Rooster. Published in May 2025, this vibrant 44-page tale follows a plucky rooster who adores his home in the lilac bush, crowing to greet the sun each day. As winter approaches and his flock seeks shelter in the warm coop, Rodney chooses to stay put, learning to trust in God’s provision amid the snow and cold. Infused with warmth, humor, and timeless lessons on faith and resilience, the story mirrors Terry’s lifelong dedication to inspiring young hearts and minds. 39
Alongside her husband, Gus Craven—an ordained minister and enrolled member of the Oglala Lakota Sioux Tribe—Terry has been a beacon of hope on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in Wanblee, South Dakota, since 2008. 41 A licensed minister with the Assemblies of God, Terry graduated from Trinity Bible College with Gus, launching their shared ministry in 1997. They pastored the All Nations Church on the Rosebud Reservation for a decade before founding Eagle Nest Life Center Church in Wanblee, where Sunday School kicks off at 10:15 a.m., followed by Worship at 11:00 a.m. 41 The church pulses with energy through Wednesday night gatherings at 6:30 p.m. (soon streaming on YouTube as “Craven the Word”), children’s church for ages 6-12, Vacation Bible School, youth activities, holiday events, and community outreaches like a soup kitchen opened in July 2022 and plans for Celebrate Recovery programs to support those battling addictions. 42
Extending their impact, Terry and Gus established Glory Ranch as a dynamic hub for community building and skill development. 41 This sprawling acreage hosts thrilling events such as bull riding, roping, archery, barrel racing clinics, and equestrian activities, alongside an annual Harvest Festival bursting with zip lining, rock climbing, horseback riding, and more. 42 Summer brings Camp Noah for kids ages 6-15, blending worship, fishing, crafts, games, and outdoor fun, while life skills training empowers youth with hands-on classes in carpentry, welding, electrical work, woodworking, and mechanical skills. 42 Collaborating with organizations like Christian Veterinary Mission, they even transform the church basement into pop-up vet clinics, providing essential animal care to strengthen community bonds. 8
Terry and Gus’s broader outreach includes food distributions, evangelistic events, kids’ clubs, and partnerships with ministry teams nationwide. 41 Gus serves on the Oglala Lakota Ministerial Coalition, training Native leaders, and the couple frequently speaks at churches, missions conventions, and conferences. 41 Recently, they’ve been fundraising to send youth to the Native American Fellowship Youth Conference and Convocation in Dallas, Texas, fostering spiritual growth and cultural connections. 40
Through Rodney the Rooster, Terry channels her passion for uplifting families, blending adventure with profound messages of trust and perseverance. Ideal for young readers and storytime, this delightful book captures the essence of her ministry: nurturing spirits, building resilience, and celebrating God’s unwavering care. 39
Terry Craven, a devoted minister and visionary community leader, brings her heartfelt faith and storytelling to life in her enchanting children’s book, Rodney the Rooster. Published in May 2025, this vibrant 44-page tale follows a plucky rooster who adores his home in the lilac bush, crowing to greet the sun each day. As winter approaches and his flock seeks shelter in the warm coop, Rodney chooses to stay put, learning to trust in God’s...