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Transforming Your Home Into a Safe Harbor “… You were so glad when the storm died down, and He led you safely back to harbor.” (Psalm 107:30 THE MESSAGE) You may remember the story of Abby Sutherland, the plucky 16-year-old from Southern California, who bravely attempted to become the youngest person ever to circumnavigate the globe solo. Setting off in a small sailboat named “Wild Eyes”, Abby faced broken equipment, unpredictable storms, and threats of pirates during her voyage. Just off the coast of Australia, the teenager’s trip was cut short as gigantic, 3-story swells capsized her boat, and destroyed her mast. Thankfully, she and her boat were rescued three days later. Can you imagine Abby’s relief as her bruised and battered little boat was pulled into a safe harbor? Away from all the dangers and pressures of the high seas, Abby could finally relax and recuperate from her long journey, as her family tearfully welcomed her back into the harbor with joy. You may not realize it, but your teenager is on a journey no less perilous or dangerous than the one Abby Sutherland ventured. Every day, their tiny boat is buffeted by storms of a permissive culture, the pirates of
constant media, the pressures to perform, and growing gales of pessimism about the world they live in. As a contrast, our homes should be a safe harbor for tired teens. The family should be a place where they can repair, refuel, and be re-sent, prepared to weather the world. Kids need a quiet and peaceful place of protection from the elements. If they don’t find it at your home, they will find it somewhere else. So how can we make our home a safe harbor for our kids? A Harbor of Friendship Not to wax nostalgic, but youth culture was different back in my day. I remember viewing coaches, teachers, police officers, and (most) politicians as admirable symbols of authority, whose commands were something to be obeyed. Yet, it seems in recent times these pillars of respectability have lost their luster. As reports pile up about the failures and abuses by those in authority, today’s youth see positions of power in a more negative light, and tend to write off what they say. Whether this is good or bad is another topic altogether. But since kids don’t respect authority as they once did, we have to change our parenting style to reflect this change. Imposing rules
don’t change kids; loving relationships do. To make our home a safe harbor, we need to offer our teens the hand of friendship rather than lowering the arm of authority. I’m not saying that parents should strive to be their child’s friend to the exclusion of boundaries and rules. Moms and dads are parents, first and foremost. But too often we allow our position of authority to excuse running our house like dictators! Unfortunately, this doesn’t make for a home where teens feel comfortable, accepted, or loved. It’s in the confines of a relationship that our kids will not only enjoy being at home, but also listen attentively to what we say. The Harbor of Conversation In addition to making the home a harbor for relationships, we also need to make our home a place for conversation. And it’s not just general dialogue about sports, grades, and what’s on TV. A safe harbor is a place where your teen feels comfortable talking about issues that matter. It’s about developing consistent one-on-one conversations with your kids, so they know you want to hear from them. Set aside time at the dinner table to ask your teen in-depth questions.
Or take time out of your schedule to take them out to coffee and see what’s on their mind. By engaging in purposeful conversation, you’re giving your child the freedom to share and open up about their lives in a safe place. Also, think carefully about the exchanges in your home. Are there more commands than conversations? More lectures than discussions? Constant criticisms and negativity don’t draw kids to the home; they push them right out the door! Let’s face it. Would you want to spend time with people who constantly nagged you? I know I wouldn’t! So make a choice to tone down the criticism. Designate a couple days every week where you don’t critique your kids at all. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday can be days where you focus on the positive in your child, rather than on what they are doing wrong. Allow those days to be a time of rest for both you and your teen. The Harbor of Laughter Life is hard. You’re fully aware of this reality, and your teen is just discovering it. Mark Twain once wrote, “Humor is mankind’s greatest blessing.” When it See TEEN, page 5
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder and director of Heartlight, a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. He has been married to his wife, Jan, for 40 years, has two kids, and 4 grandkids. He lives in Longview, Texas with the Heartlight staff, 60 high school kids, 25 horses, his dog, Stitch, 2 llamas, and a prized donkey named Toy. His past involvement as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and living with over 2,700 teens, has prepared Mark to share his insights and wisdom about parenting pre-teens and adolescents. You can find out more about Heartlight at www.HeartlightMinistri es.org. You can also call Heartlight directly at (903) 668-2173. For more information and helpful resources for moms and dads, check out our Parenting Today’s Teens website at www.ParentingTodays Teens.org. It’s filled with ideas and tools to help you become a more effective parent. Here you will also find a station near you where you can listen to the Parenting Today’s Teens radio broadcast, or download the podcast of the most recent programs.
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The story of the birth of Jesus COURTESY OF METRO CONNECTION
Christmas traditions focus on several different aspects of family and spiritual life. While many stories are shared around Christmastime, perhaps none bears more significance than the origin of the Christmas celebration. Sharing the Christmas story is an integral part of holiday gatherings, reminding families that faith is foremost during this festive time of year.
The Conception of Jesus Mary was a woman living in the Galilee area of Nazareth. She was engaged to a Jewish carpenter named Joseph. An angel visited the Virgin Mary and told her that she would conceive a child — a son — by the power of the Holy Spirit. When the son was born, she would name him Jesus. Mary questioned the angel, who reassured her that anything was possible by God and that Jesus would be God’s own son. Joseph was troubled when he found out Mary was with child and even considered breaking their engagement, which was allowed under Jewish law. But God soon sent another angel, this time to Joseph, in a dream.
The angel reassured Joseph that his marriage to Mary and the birth of this child were His will. Joseph awoke from his dream and took Mary as his wife soon after, ready and willing to raise the child despite the public humiliation he may experience. The Census During this time the Romans had control over many parts of the world, including where Joseph and Mary resided. Ruler Caesar Augustus decreed that every person living under Roman rule had to return to his town of origin to participate in a census so everyone could be taxed accordingly. Joseph, hailing from Bethlehem, had to return to this town with his very pregnant bride. They traveled for many days and, upon arriving in Bethlehem, found that the inns were full and there was no available lodging. Mary and Joseph took shelter in a stable and prepared to welcome their son.
Jesus’ Arrival According to the Gospel of Luke, Mary gave birth to her firstborn, a son, while in the stable. She wrapped him in cloth and placed him in a manger because there was no guest room available for Kenneth N Nance Agent them. And there were 110 Cor Cordele dele Road Suite 5 Albany, Albany y, GA 31705-2478 shepherds living out Bus 229-485-1385 Cell 404-477-7 404-477-7233 7233 in the fields nearby, Kent@kentnanceismyagent.com keeping watch over www.kentnanceismyagent.com www .kentnanceismyagent.com their flocks at night. The greatest compliment you can give gi me is a referral. 293662-1 An angel of the Lord
appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about
this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. -Luke Chapter 2 Many people visited the baby Jesus, including three wise men from the East who traveled by following a guiding star to bestow gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh on the baby king. When Joseph and Mary had performed all the things necessary according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Nazareth with Jesus, who was growing strong in spirit and filled with wisdom and the grace of God.
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Characteristics of an effective pastor and church leader COURTESY OF WWW.INTOTHYWORD.ORG
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The Leadership Challenge Too often people confuse a strongwilled personality as an effective leader, leadership is not being strong-willed, rather having a strong sense of purpose that is centered upon God. The church of our Lord needs leaders, not petty instigators. There are too many churches that substitute a petty person for a godly person and see no distinction, because the people who put them in power do not know the difference.
TEEN
Continued from page 2
Characteristics of an effective pastor and church leader: Vision A vision will have your primary call from Scripture, to hear and obey His Word! Knowledge Knowledge is being assured that what Christ did is relevant and impacting, and is a reality that must be accepted and committed to. Love their Call Love their Call is Passion, it means there is nothing better you would rather do than... Energizer Energizer is the importance of influence, and being attractive with Christ who gets excited and is joyful for Him! Learning Learning is to learn and grow from the experience the Lord gives us so we are an example for His work! Maturity Maturity is to know that our need is to be in Christ, and not to be to ourselves! Perseverance
Perseverance is to continue in our state of grace so we live it out in our lives and walk with Christ to the end for our eternal reward! Spunk Spunk is the willingness to take a risk and go beyond ourselves, our experience and knowledge and into what is best for the body of Christ! No Fear of Failure No Fear of Failure is the ability to take a risk and keep the focus and attention on our call and obedience! Followers Followers is knowing that you cannot lead where you have not been, unless the leader is a good follower of the Lord they cannot lead others effectively! Listening Listening knows to be an effectual leader, you must know how to listen, all its takes is the will to turn it on and let it work.
comes to building a safe harbor for your kids to come home to, make sure laughter, fun, and humor are major cornerstones. If the family dynamic resembles a funeral home, then all you’ll create is a cold and lifeless kid. But if you’re purposeful in making your house a place of joy, you’ll discover that your family will appreciate being there. One way to inject some fun into your family is to find out what your teen likes to do, and join them. That might mean playing video games with them. Or taking them outside to race RC cars. Or joining them in painting a mural on the garage wall. Try to bring the whole family together for events, as well. Plan a movie night, with a buffet of junk food. Or sponsor a trampoline competition in the backyard with prizes. Be creative and spontaneous with bringing a level of humor and enjoyment into the home. It makes for a welcoming harbor that kids can’t wait to come home to. On the temperamental sea of our culture, teens and parents alike get battered and tossed around. After a day battling the storms that seek to divide families, we all feel like a ship in desperate need of repair and respite. That’s why our children need a safe haven to toss out the anchor and find rest. As parents, we have the opportunity to build and provide a harbor like that. Instead of teenagers looking to escape as soon as possible, our home can be a place where kids look forward to being welcomed.
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Chanukah foods steeped in tradition
Celebrating the Festival of Lights
COURTESY OF METRO CONNECTION
COURTESY OF METRO CONNECTION
Chanukah, which roughly translates to “dedication” or “induction,” is a Jewish holiday celebrated each year in November and/or December, depending on the Jewish calendar. Although it may not hold the same level of spiritual significance as some other holidays of the religion, Chanukah is a highly anticipated and popular holiday among people who practice Judaism. Two miracles are celebrated on Chanukah. One of them is a victory by a small number of Jews known as the Maccabees, who defeated the Greek army occupying the Holy Land. The other miracle occurred when the Maccabees liberated their Temple from the Greeks. They only discovered a single night’s worth of oil to light the menorah. However, that oil managed to burn for eight days and nights. Chanukah celebrations include various traditions that commemorate these miracles. Many celebrations focus around food and fun. It’s common to find similar foods in Jewish households during the eight days of Chanukah. Here’s a look at some of the more common foods and their significance. • Latkes: Latkes have different names among the sects of Judaism, but they’re essentially fried potato pancakes. Different fried foods, like latkes, are eaten during Chanukah to honor the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days. Other fried foods include jelly-filled doughnuts called “sufganiyot.” • Loukoumades: These deep-fried puffs dipped in honey or sugar are treats used to represent the cake eaten by the Maccabees. • Dairy: Dairy was not always included in Chanukah traditions, but cheese, blintzes and cheesecakes emerged to symbolize the story of Judith. Legend says Judith was a beautiful woman who saved her village from attacking Babylonians. Judith was able to enter the enemy camp thanks to her beauty, charm and a basket of wine and cheese she brought
along. She fed the enemy general, Holofernes, who consumed lots of salty cheese and wine and passed out. Judith killed the general, and the Babylonians left shortly thereafter. • Brisket and tongue: Although these foods are not tied to a particular Chanukah story, they have grown quite popular as traditional Chanukah meals. Beef brisket pairs well with potato latkes, and beef or veal tongue also may be served. • Kugel: Potatoes are often baked, along with other hearty vegetables, into casseroles called “kugels.” • Challah: Challah is a leavened bread traditionally baked and served on the Sabbath and Jewish holidays. The braided white bread is both attractive to look at and tasty to eat. Food plays a big role in many Chanukah traditions, as there are various delicious dishes steeped in historical significance.
The Jewish celebration of Chanukah is often associated with the Christian holiday of Christmas, but that association has little to do with the significance of each holiday and more to do with the timing. Each is celebrated at the end of the year when the holiday season has hit full swing. But much like the story of Christmas, the story of Chanukah is a rich one. The celebration of Chanukah has a deep history that can be traced back to a successor of Alexander the Great. Upon conquering Syria, Egypt and Palestine, Alexander the Great allowed these lands to remain relatively autonomous, a gesture that extended to allowing residents of these conquered lands to observe their own religions. However, more than 100 years later, Antiochus IV, a less tolerant successor of Alexander, began to oppress the Jewish people under his control, desecrating their temples and even ordering the massacre of many Jews. This treatment eventually sparked a revolt led by Mattathias the Hasmonean and his son, Judah Maccabee. This revolt would ultimately prove successful, and the temple was rededicated. But at the time of rededication, oil needed to light the menorah was very low, roughly enough to keep the menorah lit for just one night. However, the oil stunningly lasted for eight days, enough time to prepare an additional supply of oil for the menorah. An eight-day festival was then declared to celebrate this miracle, and that festival is now known as Chanukah, which is often referred to as the "Festival of Lights." Though Chanukah is not as religiously significant as the Jewish holidays of Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah and Passover, many Jewish people still look forward to the holiday and its
traditions. One such tradition for many families is cooking potato latkes, a relatively easy yet delicious food that Chanukah celebrants can enjoy on weekend mornings when gathered around the breakfast table. Potato Latkes Serves 4 11/2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 2 tablespoons flour 11/2 teaspoons salt and freshly ground black pepper Vegetable oil for frying In a food processor, grate the potatoes. Line a sieve with cheesecloth and transfer the potatoes to the sieve. Set the sieve over a boil and twist the cheesecloth into a pouch, squeezing out some moisture. Let the mixture drain for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, pour off liquid from the bowl but leave the white potato starch that settles in the bottom of the bowl. To that starch add shallots, eggs, flour, salt and freshly ground pepper. Return drained potatoes to this mixture and toss to combine. Preheat the oven to 200 F. Line a baking pan with paper towels. When you are ready to eat, in a large skillet heat 1/4 inch of oil over medium-high heat until hot. Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of potato mixture and cook for 3 to 4 minutes a side; latkes should be golden and crisp on both sides. Eat right away or keep warm in oven. Serve with applesauce, sour cream or cottage cheese mixed with sour cream. Recipe courtesy of foodnetwork.com.
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Inspiration for Overcoming Caregiver Burnout By Jack Hartley www.caregiverstress.com
If you feel emotionally burned out from caregiving, you’re certainly not alone. Members of our Caregiver Stress online community recently shared their feelings of depression, isolation and being taken advantage of by other family members. Beneath the surface of the expressed burnout, however, a few beacons of hope shone through. Many readers related a need to “take a step back” and renew their sense of perspective in order to get back in touch with the many rewards of caring for a senior family member. If you feel a similar need to take a step back, consider these thoughts from family caregivers and other inspirational voices for renewed strength throughout your journey. “Be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.” – Maya Angelou If you feel others in your life don’t appreciate what you’re doing as a caregiver, focus on recognizing the contributions of other caregivers you know. Sending your appreciation to another can feel as rewarding as receiving the good wishes yourself. If you don’t know any other caregivers in real life, participate in communities like
Source:
Caregiver Stress. “I have Alzheimer’s disease. It's a frightening and frustrating experience. Frustrating because I know well, what I am doing to those around me and frightening because, I also know well, where I'm going. It is with huge sense of guilt that I make my loved ones suffer, in caring for me. Please forgive me. I am not doing this on purpose and I know that you did not sign up for this job. You certainly won no good lottery. I'm sorry, I'm truly sorry!” – Dick O., commenting at CaregiverStress.com. Find strength in knowing your senior loved ones with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia appreciate what you do, even if they can’t communicate it. Every day http://www.gcmjournal.org/2015/05/15/ you alleviate their fear as
they take a very scary journey. “Let us be silent that we may hear the whisper of God.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson The caregiving life can be filled with noise and chaos. When you grab even five minutes of quiet, you can tune in to those soul whispers that remind you of all the good you are doing as a family caregiver. "Measure yourself by the teaspoon, not the scoop shovel, and you might find more of yourself that you didn't even know you had lost till you look close and treasure the small things. ... If you're feeling lost, do not try to find your (old) self; lean forward to be the best new self you can become." – Mark, Remember for Alzheimer's Facebook community Don’t expect or require perfection from yourself as a caregiver. Look to the small victories and happy moments hiding in each day, and watch a new, beautiful you emerge.
“Every time you find some humor in a difficult situation, you win.” – Peanuts Go ahead, laugh. Find the absurdity of the situation. It’s good for your soul. “We all need help one time or other... Pray for the Lord's Spirit to be with the caregiver and the person who needs healing strength” – Aileen H., Caregiver Stress Facebook community Don’t neglect your spirituality as a caregiver. Spiritual rituals can renew and strengthen your sense of purpose. “If you love a family member with Alzheimer’s, the love doesn't change, the coping is what changes. You love them the same as before! - Patricia W.D., Remember for Alzheimer’s Facebook community It can be easy to lose sight of why you took on the role of family caregiver to begin with: love. Take a moment today to get back in touch with that love you still hold for your senior family member who needs you.
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ALBANY First Bethesda Baptist Church 7108 Newton Rd (229) 435-2921 New Beginnings Missionary Baptist Church 209 N. Monroe Street (229) 888-4777 Greater Grace Church of God in Christ 205 S Westover Blvd (229) 439-7047 St. Teresa’s Catholic Church 421 Edgewood Lane www.stteresaschurch.org (229) 439-2302 St. Paul Episcopal Church 212 N Jefferson St (229) 436-0196 www.stpaulsalbany.org
Second Mt. Zion Baptist Church 1010 Old Pretoria Road (229) 439-0334 www.secondmtzion.com First Free Will Baptist Church 420 Westover Blvd (229) 436-4021 www.ffwbcalbany.org
Leesburg 135 Main St (229) 759-6576 firstbaptistleesburg.org Leesburg United Methodist Church 117 Starksville Ave N (229) 759-2096 umcleesburg.com
Shiloh Baptist Church 325 Whitney Ave (229) 435-8413
Greenbriar Church 1344 US 19 (229) 446-4642 greenbriarchurch.net
Calvary Baptist Church 1211 13th Ave calvarybaptistchurchofalban yga.org
Leesburg Church of Christ 106 Callaway St (229) 759-2030 leesburgchurchofchrist.org
New Life of Albany 1200 Cordele Rd newlifeofalbany.com
Philema Road Baptist Church 114 Stocks Dairy Rd (229) 435-3135
Lee First Baptist Church -
New Hope Baptist Church 1209 Graves Springs Rd
(229) 439-9997 newhopebaptist.net Greater United Pleasant Green 1512 Philema Rd S (229) 438-8062 Albany Community SDA Church 381 Fussell Rd (229) 436-3631 Friendship Baptist Church 564A Highway 195N Desoto, GA 229-874-6610 AMERICUS Life Point Church 384 GA HWY 30 W Central Baptist Church 190 Upper River Rd (229) 924-4092 cbcamericus.org
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Cornerstone Church 245 Southland Rd (229) 924-7409 Restoration Church of Americus 1213 Douglas Cir (229) 931-6244 restorationchurchamericus.c om First United Methodist Church 200 S Lee St (229) 924-3169 fumcamericus.com First Presbyterian Church 125 S Jackson St (229) 924-2162 americuspresbyterian.org St. Mary’s Catholic Church 332 S Lee St (229) 924-3495 First Baptist Church Americus 221 South Lee St (229) 924-9035 www.fbcamericus.org Faith Baptist Church 947 Felder st (229) 924-5890 Union Tabernacle Baptist Church 900 Adderton St (229) 924-0421 Americus Pentecostal Church 820 Magnolia St (229) 928-3178
TIFTON Northside Baptist Church 4605 Murray Ave (229) 382-6855 nbctifton.org St Anne’s Episcopal Church 2411 Central Ave (229) 382-7505 stannestifton.com Our Divine Saviour Catholic 1205 Love Ave (229) 382-4600 odsparish.org Journey Church 304 20th St W (229) 238-3749 New River Church 17 Old Brookfield Rd (229) 386-2693 newriverbaptist.org Carpenter Road Church of God 40 Carpenter Rd N (229) 382-4880 crdcog.com First Presbyterian Church 217 Park Ave N (229) 382-6730 firstpresbyteriantifton.com Beulah Hill Baptist Church 321 Tifton-Eldorado Rd (229) 472-1505 New Life Presbyterian Church
3500 Fulwood Rd (229) 382-7238 newlifetifton.org
Calvary Baptist Church 830 26th Ave SE (229) 985-3237 www.calvarybcmoultrie.com
MOULTRIE
VALDOSTA
First Baptist Church 400 S Main St (229) 985-2103 firstmoultrie.org
CrossPointe Church 110 Northside Dr (229) 242-7702 crosspointechurch.cc
Heritage Church 844 GA 33 (229) 891-3421 heritagelife.org
Southland Church 2206 E Hill Ave (229) 245-8188 southlandchurch.net
Trinity Church 201 12th Ave SE (229) 985-3660 trinityofmoultrie.org
New Covenant Church 3531 Bemiss Rd (229) 247-7777 nccvaldosta.org
Lifespring Community Church 2010 GA 133 (229) 985-2233 lifespringcc.net
Christ Episcopal Church 1521 N Patterson St (229) 242-5115 christchurchvaldosta.org
Lakeside Assembly of God 146 Washington St (229) 985-5424 lakesideassembly.org Friendship Alliance Church 835 26th Ave (229) 985-4908 friendshipalliancemoultrie.com
Moultrie First Church or Nazarene 410 12th Ave SE (229) 873-6265 www.moultriefirst.org
Perimeter Road Baptist Church 4091 Inner Perimeter Rd (229) 333-0746 perimeterroad.com Morningside Baptist Church 2604 Bemiss Rd (229) 242-1426 morningside.ws Azalea City Church of God 247 St. Augustine Rd (229) 244-1855 myazaleacity.com
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How do I Know God is Calling me to be an Entrepreneur? Typically, this is the time of year (i.e., the fourth quarter; the end of one year and the beginning of a new one) God’s people start thinking about what’s next in their careers. Consequently, they ask
questions such as: Should I stay with this company or should I start that business? If you have been asking the latter, it is important to discern whether you are called to be an entrepreneur. Studies
Entrepreneurial Trait Assessment
showed that 70 to 97% of start up businesses failed in the first three years (Burnes, 2011; Decker et al., 2012; Miller, 2002). Perhaps, one reason this number is so high is because most people do not have what it takes to run a business. The skills required to run a business are distinctly different than those required to be a good manager in a corporate setting. At the same time, we find professing Christians looking to the world’s wisdom to discover whether we have what it takes to succeed. This article will challenge you to avoid making this mistake by turning to the source to discover the necessary entrepreneurial traits for business success. This article is an excerpt of this book titled Is the job, the boss, you . . . or are you an entrepreneur?: Find your career stressors and the success God intends. My prayer is that this featured excerpt will help you start the journey of discovering some the traits most, if not all, entrepreneurs possess. Lastly, for more support in starting and running a business that glorifies God, pick up a copy of the book at www.godscoach.com. Closing This excerpt highlights one of the most pertinent ways for believers to assess entrepreneurial traits. However, there are many others. You may want to consider personality assessment quizzes, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® (MBTI). Also, business courses can help you get clear on the type of skills business leaders possess. God created you with spiritual gifts and talents to serve in the business world. Do not allow the wisdom of the world and the lack of Biblical knowledge to stop you from becoming the leader He desires. References Burnes, B. (2011). Introduction: Why does change fail, and what can we do about it? Journal of Change Management, 11(4), 445450. doi: 10.1080/14697017.2011.630507 Decker, P., Durand, R., Mayfield, C. O., McCormack, C., Skinner, D., & Perdue, G. (2012). Predicting implementation failure in organization change. Journal of Organizational Culture, Communications & Conflict, 16(2), 39-59. Miller, D. (2002). Successful change leaders: What makes them? What do they do that is different? Journal of Change Management, 2(4), 359.
Karen M. Pina is the founder of Gifts Ordained by Direction. Her exclusive approach for leaders develops the character necessary to rise to greatness in business and ministry. She has written three books and created over 100 ministry, business, and personal development resources that quench leaders’ thirst and hunger for spiritual meat and marketplace wisdom. Karen has been a guest on several television and radio programs that challenged leaders to move to the next level of significance in every area of their lives. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services and a Master’s of Education (M.Ed). in Higher Education Leadership and Administration. Karen will defend and obtain and a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration (Ph.D.) in 2016. Her education and gift of wisdom has served her well as she has coached, consulted, and trained doctors, directors, entrepreneurs, visionaries, IT professionals, bishops, apostles, executives, coaches, prophets, teachers, pastors, and a vast array of leaders to greatness. To learn more about the books, resources, and Karen go to www.godscoach.com
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WZBN Praise
105.5
Steven Waldron
Albany GA
Pastor
Where were you born and raised? I was born at South Fulton Hospital in East Point Georgia. I lived in Rex until I was 5, then my family moved to Morrow Ga., where I lived until I was 18. My Mother and Father are both from Douglas Ga. In Coffee County, so we spent a lot of time over there as well. Tell us about your family. With Mom and Dad both being from Douglas, and with both of them coming from fairly large families, at last count I had over 200 relatives in Coffee County. In my immediate family I have 1 brother and 2 sisters. I’m the youngest. I was married at age 18, and have been married to my beautiful and talented wife Sandi for over 31 years. Dad was born into very poor circumstances, and was drafted in 1948. He became a Ranger in the Army, and a Paratrooper. He was wounded multiple times in action. After military service, he worked and retired from General Motors, and also built houses on the side, as well as owned a Restaurant. My Mother was very intelligent, and worked in banking, and then became an Accountant for Sears. My oldest sister has an MBA, and has had a very successful business career with Uniysses and Black and Decker. My brother was a childhood prodigy. He graduated with a Masters degree when he was 20, never making below a 4.0. He then began the Atlanta Comics and Fantasy Fair, becoming acquainted with many people in the Hollywood and Comics industry. He has written for Walt Disney and other Comics. He’s also written some successful research books on recent American History. He’s had 2 Discovery Specials programs made about his findings, and has been on CNN, Fox, Geraldo, USA Today, Conversations With the Great Minds among many other media appearances. My youngest sister has a Masters Degree in Nuclear
Engineering from Ga. Tech. After working for the Nuclear Regulatory Agency for years, she then got married, quit her job, and had 3 beautiful homeschooled children. How long have you been a Pastor? About 18 years. After graduating from Bible College, I was a Sunday School Superintendent, then a Youth Pastor, then an Assistant Pastor, all at the same Church. After 7 years there, I then started a Church in McDonough Ga, and was there about 12 years. I then went full time at Indiana Bible College in Indianapolis, and I still teach there on an adjunct basis. After 3 years full time there (11 years total), I felt the call to come to New Life of Albany, and have been here a little over 6 years. What is the Most Challenging Aspect of Your Position? Getting people to see the truth of the Word of God. We live in a society where people have to be shown why the Bible is true. And that is no problem, if they’ll take the time to listen, and weigh the evidence themselves. What is the most gratifying aspect? Seeing people get saved. When people really come to know the Lord, it is awesome! Next would be seeing people become disciples of Jesus Christ, and letting Him live thru them. Do you have any advice for someone who feels called to the ministry? Get alone with God. Make sure you are hearing His voice. Then consult with trusted spiritual advisors. We need more laborers into the harvest, and in the multitude of counselors, there is wisdom. Leave with a meaningful message or Scripture – God cares enough about you to come in flesh and die for us. What we do with that central message, the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ is all that is going to matter for eternity.
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New Life of Albany 1200 Cordele Rd, Albany (229) 439-7242
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Upcoming Events Late Night at FBC Tuesdays at 8 PM College Bible Study - Free Food! FBC Family Life Center First Baptist Tifton 4th St & Central Ave www.fbctifton.org Contact Bill Hughes bhughes@fbctifton.org First Saturday of Each Month 8:00 am - 10:00 am Dougherty Prayer Vigil 222 Pine Ave, Albany Contact Rance Pettibone, Sr.: rancepettibone@hotmail.com (229) 881-4828 Victorian Christmas Festival Second Thursday and Friday in December. Horse-drawn carriages, community sing-a-long, holiday shopping, choirs musicians, holiday delicacies, and Saint Nicholas. www.thomasvillega.com (229) 228-7977 City of Bainbridge Christmas Parade Dec 10, 6:30 pm Approx. 100 floats and participants entertain thousands along Shotwell Street to Willis Park, downtown.
A Christmas Carol Dec 11, 12, & 17 at 7:30 pm Dec 13 & 20 at 2:00 pm Theatre Albany 514 Pine Ave (229) 439-7193 The Field by Night Dec 11 Grace Church of Bainbridge 1300 Lake Douglas Rd Roam through the outdoor Christmas village taking in the sights, smells, and tastes of the holidays. Mitch Hines: (229) 243-0532 SAM Shortline Excursion Train Georgia Veterans State Park 105 9th Ave E, Cordele, GA 31015 Dec 10 - Candy Cane Express Dec 12 - Mistletoe Express Dec 14 - Candy Cane Express Dec 18 - The North Pole Express Dec 19 - 8:30 am - Breakfast with Santa Train, 12 pm - Lunch with Santa, 6 pm - Dinner with Santa (229) 276-0755 The Field by Night Dec 11 Grace Church of Bainbridge 1300 Lake Douglas Rd
Roam through the outdoor Christmas village taking in the sights, smells, and tastes of the holidays. Mitch Hines: (229) 243-0532 Poulan Annual Christmas Parade & Christmas in the Park December 12, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Cake walks, free train rides, inflatables, and a visit from Santa. Free chili and hotdog supper after cake walk. Christmas Spectacular Dec 12, 7:00 pm Tift County High School Performing Arts Center 8th grade performs a variety of Christmas classics. $7 per person
North Pole Express at Georgia Museum of Agriculture Dec 19 - 20 Children of all ages can ride the North Pole Express to see Santa Claus from 5-8 p.m. on Dec. 19-20 at the Georgia Museum of Agriculture and Historic Village at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. $6 per person and must be purchased in advance at the Country Store. (229) 391-5205 Outrun Hunger 2015 Dec 19, 5K - 9:00 am, 1 mile 9:30 am Race starts at Porterfield UMC 2200 Dawson Rd, Albany Early registration until Dec 7 Online registration & Info available missionchange.com
Worth County Chorus Christmas Concert Dec 14, 6:30 pm 8:00 pm Unity Baptist Church Worth County Middle Wanda Heath Office Manager & High Schools 110 Cordele Road Suite 5 invite you to attend Albany, GA 31705-2478 their Christmas Bus 229-485-1385 Concert. No charge. wanda@kentnanceismyagent.com (229) 776-8620
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Please submit your upcoming events to Jennifer King, jennifer.king@albanyherald.com
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To Be Or Not To Be? Regaining Broken Trust By Cate Russell-Cole Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
"If you can not have trust then there is no relationship. Take it from me. I was married for over five years. I found out he had a lot of girls coming on to him and he would blow them off for the longest time. Then I found a number in his wallet. I called and a woman answered it, she was hoping that I was my hubby. To make a long story short...I met her and she told me that he had finally accepted her proposal after two weeks on the job site. Well I asked him and of course he denied it. Then he came home to her in the house talking to me. He passed out cold!!! The next year he wouldn't talk to her or see her and/or anything to do with her. But then I became paranoid. I couldn't let him go anywhere without having him followed or leaving him alone at the house without having the line tapped. So I fell apart. I needed that trust that he stole from me. Now we are friends, and he sees his daughter, but I am a divorced single mother, now, you can take it for what its worth or you can let it kill you." Signed Anonymous I came across this posting on a message board. It was answering a cry for help from a young woman whose husband was using pornography. It highlights the whole issue of trust in relationships. It is one that has been a challenge for all of us, in some way or other. How do you restore trust when it's lost? Can you
restore it? Is it worth restoring, or will there always be an unfillable void in the relationship that has an awesome potential for its destruction? If your loved one betrays you, whether that be a child, parent, sibling or friend, how do you know it is the first time - or is it the first time you have found out? Have they broken your trust repeatedly in the past? Are you an idiot because you didn't see the signs? Will they do it again in the future? Can you trust anything they do? How do you know what they are thinking? What a minefield of problems any kind of betrayal opens up! I went to our library and searched through books on relationships to try and find out how you rebuild shattered relationships. I found references on how trust is lost in early childhood on, but nothing on rebuilding it. On the surface level, regaining trust seems like a lost cause. A psychologist named Robert Kastenbaum said that trust was whether or not what is said by a person is reliable and matches their actual attitudes and behaviour. A journalist named Adam Sieler defined trusting someone as an assessment of their sincerity, reliability and competence. He goes on to state the blatantly obvious. By your actions you gain trust, and by your actions you lose it. It makes or breaks relationships. So
much for the guiding wisdom of those who are supposed to be the experts. So where does that leave us when we don't know where to turn to for help? A philosophy book said that you don't have to trust someone totally. They don't have to have an excellent degree of integrity, you get by with some wins and some losses. Sometimes they are going to pull a dirty trick on you, but to keep going, you accept it or the relationship dies off. Is that what we want to settle for? Another answer of the message board stated, "I think you will always feel distrustful of him because you will always wonder if he will act out / carry out whatever fantasies or delights he may be getting from porno. So no, I don't think you will trust him, because it will always be in the back of your mind." Kastenbaum takes us
back to the subject of marriage. He says that trust contributes to the love felt by marriage partners. The greater the trust, the greater the love, and thus the greater the intimacy in the marriage. Partners are able to work out how their partner really feels about things, and where their thought patterns genuinely lie. Ultimately God is the only One we can trust when our world caves in, and those closest to us disappoint us. People will always be a source of hurt, intentionally and unintentionally. As King David did, you will find comfort and healing in the One who will never forsake you or betray you for any reason. "Then David spoke to the Lord the words of this song, on the day when the Lord had delivered him from the hand of his enemies, and from the hand of Saul [who
wanted to kill him.] And he said, "God is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; the God of my strength in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn on my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge; my Saviour, You save me from violence. I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies... In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried out to my God; He heard my voice from His temple, and my cry entered His ears."" (2 Samuel 22:14,7) This article by Cate Russell-Cole is under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-SA 4.0) Written in Australian English.
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Celebrate with religious sights and sounds COURTESY OF METRO CONNECTION
In many ways, secular celebrations garner more attention than religious gatherings during the holiday season. But all it takes is a little digging to find religious services to fill our calendars come the month of December.
Midnight Mass Many Christian churches commemorate Jesus Christ’s birth with a special midnight Mass on December 24th. Some Christians wait until the clock strikes midnight to place baby Jesus figurines into their Nativity scenes a t home. Midnight Mass may bring entire communities together to share the holiday season message of joy and peace. Midnight Mass also may feature awe-inspiring performances by church choirs or private performers who lend their talents to the festivities.
Living Nativity Area houses of worship and community centers may produce their own Living Nativity performances. Costumed volunteers and actors present the story of Christ’s birth and the good news that followed. This can be an especially exciting experience for children and may also be a creative way to reinforce religious beliefs, especially to children who may have difficulty otherwise relating to written text.
Christmas pageants In some areas, children play integral roles in recreating the story of Christmas. Private Catholic schools may offer performances of Christmas pageants that explain the Nativity and other events leading up to the birth of Christ. Parents and extended "ÄŒPSEBCMF -JGF *OTVSBODF members of the family (FREE) MediCare (Assistance) can enjoy a religious experience while also t -JGF *OTVSBODF t %JTBCJMJUZ t *OKVSZ "DDJEFOU t $BODFS sharing praise for their t %FOUBM t 7JTJPO youngest performers.
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Volunteer efforts Houses of worship may organize clothing
drives, holiday meals, toy donation collections, and many other community events this time of year. Volunteer to lend a hand at such events, which can help to remind you that the holiday season is one of giving. Community candle lighting Jewish celebrants may participate in a community-sponsored hanukkiyah (Chanukah menorah) lighting ceremony. Although candles or oil is traditionally burned for Chanukah, many public places use an electric system for safety and convenience. The lighting has a schedule based on tradition and ritual. A Chanukah candle lighting
service can bring the religious experience alive for many involved. Caroling Christmas caroling, which likely evolved from the British tradition of wassailing, has largely fallen out of favor. However, many close-knit towns and communities still include caroling among their traditions. Caroling can be a great way to spread holiday share cheer. Although carols are often a blend of religious and secular tunes, many people find their faith is revitalized by joining their friends and neighbors to carol during the holiday season.
A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA PRAISE • December 2015 • www.albanyherald.com 15
What to expect at a religious wedding ceremony COURTESY OF METRO CONNECTION
Jewish celebrations The world's Jewish population is divided among many distinctive denominations and further classifications. Although there may be subtle differences in wedding ceremonies between the sects, Jewish wedding traditions tend to be consistent across the groups. Conservative and Orthodox Jews may not hold weddings on the Sabbath or other holidays. Couples will sign the Ketuba, which is a marriage document affirming their connection to each other and to God. The ceremony starts with grandparents seated first, followed by a procession of the rabbi, cantor and groomsmen. The groom and bride will be escorted by their parents. The wedding party will gather beneath the chuppah, which is a canopy that signifies a house and represents the couple's future together. A solid gold ring is given only to the bride according to Jewish law, although more liberal rabbis may allow a ring for the groom as a gift. The bridegroom smashes a wineglass with his foot after the vows have been exchanged. Christian celebrations Christian celebrations are similar among the various denominations. Such ceremonies typically involve a processional, though the groom is typically not included, instead standing
at the altar. Christians typically hear various scripture readings, and the officiant will explain the significance of marriage in this faith. Many Catholic weddings feature a full Mass during wedding ceremonies, and this Mass includes the transubstantiation of the Holy Eucharist. After vows and rings are exchanged, the couple kisses and is pronounced husband and wife in the eyes of God. The bride and groom will go on to sign the marriage document with two witnesses on hand. Hindu celebrations A Hindu wedding celebration is an elaborate affair that includes extended family and community members. The wedding ceremony is called vivaah sanskar and can be a very colorful celebration that lasts for days. The couple and guests will be wearing traditional dress. The bride usually wears body art produced with a mixture of henna and turmeric. Hindu rituals may vary widely, but some key things are shared. According to the "Encyclopedia of Hinduism," many will include the Kanyadaan, or giving away of the daughter by her father; Panigrahana, or holding one's hands by a fire to signify the union; and Saptapadi, which is taking seven steps and making seven promises to each other before the fire. The couple may have their clothing tied together during the seven promises ritual to represent their lifelong bond. Wedding ceremonies may vary depending on culture and religion, but they all share the joy of two people pledging their love and devotion to each other.
To Mary the Angel said: “Fear not, Mary; for thou hast found favor with God.” Luke 1:30 To Joseph the Angel said: “Fear not to take unto thee Mary, thy wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit…and she shall bring forth a son and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins.” Matt 1:20,21. To the Shepherds the Angels said; “Fear not, for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people, For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke2:10,11 The Wisemen said: “Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and have come to worship him.” Matt 2:2 Jesus said: “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness but shall have the light of life.” John 8:12
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Weddings can be as unique and varied as the couples tying the knot. Quite often couples like to include certain twists on the ceremony and celebration to personalize their big days. But just as there are surprises at weddings, there also are many traditions that will be adhered to during ceremonies. Couples who opt for religious wedding ceremonies often adhere to certain rules and traditions fostered by their faiths. Guests who may be unfamiliar with traditions outside of their own beliefs may not know what to expect during certain ceremonies.
16 A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA PRAISE • December 2015 • www.albanyherald.com
Taking Care of the Caregivers As the federal monitor overseeing the reform efforts in Georgia’s Child Welfare system, I regularly review the files of children in foster care. Each file represents the life of a child and the tragic unraveling of his/her family. These case often reflect traumatized families, who then abuse and neglect their children. The resulting trauma and unsafe conditions then require children to enter foster care. Removing a child from his/her family causes yet another layer of trauma. What may not be as apparent to the community at large is that the people charged with managing all of this trauma are child welfare case managers. Working on the front-line, these courageous women and men are exposed to high levels of trauma, stress and danger every single day. Child welfare case managers are called into dangerous situations/neighborhoods, where they must engage families, assess whether or not abuse/neglect has occurred, and decide whether to remove a child from the home. They must testify against parents in court and at the same time work closely with them to help them regain custody of the child. As you can imagine, most families don’t roll out the red carpet when a case manager knocks on the door. The intensity of these situations often results in threats or verbal assaults toward the case manager. Their
caseloads are high. The pay scale is them with their own families or offering must figure out ways to support the low. The work does not fit neatly ways to decrease stress. Movie child welfare workforce, so that they between the hours of nine and five. can continue caring for our most passes, certificates for massages/yoga The amount of trauma they must or hot cooked meals are examples of vulnerable children and families. process during the work day, at home While state leaders are working small things that mean so much. and on the weekends is extraordinary. diligently to provide more professional Consider adopting the local DFCS While most of these case managers supports, flexible work schedules and office for occasional pizza parties, enter this profession because of their discounts at local businesses or gift hiring more workers to decrease the compassion for people and their desire case loads, there are things that we card drives. Together, we can make a to make a difference, the inherent huge difference by caring for the can all do at the local level. Let’s find nature of the work often causes ways to identify and reach out to those caregivers and letting them know that secondary traumatic stress or what is case managers in our own community. they are not alone. now known as “compassion fatigue”. For those we know personally, think According to the American Institute about providing respite by helping of Stress, compassion fatigue is defined as “The emotional residue or strain of exposure to working with those suffering from the consequences of traumatic events.” It can often result in symptoms including exhaustion, absenteeism, irritability and feelings of hopelessness. Many workers end up leaving the agency and seeking other professions. In the state of Georgia, the turnover rate within the Department of Family and Children Services’ workforce is approximately 30 percent on an annual basis. Every time a case manager leaves the agency, it causes delays in achieving permanency for the children on their caseload and causes already overburdened case managers to absorb even more cases. We Source: http://www.gcmjournal.org/2015/05/15/