Volume 13, Issue 11
Feature Articles
APRIL 20 1 2 Columns page 2
page 14
Publisher’s Note
I Can Read It...But Can I Understand It?
Jason Watson
page 4
Pastor's Perspective
by Reed DePace Pastor DePace discusses the problem of Christians putting their own spin on God’s word, based on their interpretation of it. He offers hope that all believers can understand the actual truth of Scripture.
Benjamin Richey, Heritage Baptist Church, Prattville
page 12
Dave $ays Dave Ramsey
page 18
Shine
Kim Hendrix
page 22
Inside Reality & Truth Ministries
by Rachel Fisher Get to know LaDonna Brendle and her inspiring story of following God’s call to minister to the homeless in downtown Montgomery.
page 20
Counselor’s Corner Lou Priolo
page 26
Grace to You John MacArthur
page 28
Family Teams for Christ Lisa and Mike Conn
page 30
2012 Easter Events Guide
page 34
Visit any of these local churches for a worship service that will focus on the true meaning of Easter!
The Intersection Bob Crittenden
page 38
Got Life? Elaine Britt
On Our Cover . . .
In Every Issue
LaDonna Brendle is the founder of Reality and Truth Ministries, which serves the homeless and poor in downtown Montgomery through nightly meals, shower and laundry facilities, Bible studies, and more. Call 334.213.7940 today!
page 6
On the Bookshelf page 8
Around Our Community page 40
Event Calendar page 44
Movie Reviews 1
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
Publisher’s Note by Jason Watson
Our Mission River Region’s Journey is committed to connecting all those who profess Jesus Christ as their Savior, regardless of denomination. Our aim is to share information and resources that promote a fulfilled, Christ-centered life. Further, we seek to reach unbelievers with the life-changing truth of God’s Word.
Editor
DeAnne Watson deanne@readjourneymagazine.com
Publisher
Jason Watson jason@readjourneymagazine.com
Research Editor Wendy McCollum
Contributing Writers Elaine Britt Lisa and Mike Conn Bob Crittenden Reed DePace Rachel Fisher Kim Hendrix John MacArthur Lou Priolo Dave Ramsey Benjamin Richey Gail Welborn
Advertising Opportunities ads@readjourneymagazine.com 334.213.7940
Cover Photography Will Frye Photography
Ad Design
Tim Welch, Welch Designs
Distribution Team Wendy McCollum Richard Ward Lesa Youngblood
In preparing for Easter our family has been reading specific passages together, and we recently read John 13, where Jesus washes the disciples’ feet. It’s a great passage on the love of Christ and His mission to wash away the penalty of our sin by humbling himself and serving those the Father had given him - even to the point of death on the cross. You can read verses 1-11 in that passage and celebrate everything I’ve just written about Christ, all that He’s done for you if you’ve placed your faith and hope in Him. Yes, Praise the Lord! BUT, verse 11 isn’t the end of the story. This is a very important part of our Christian faith that we may sometimes miss. Jesus doesn’t just serve us, He also calls us to follow after Him, and in like manner, humbly serve others. Look at what Jesus says when He finishes washing the disciples’ feet: “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” Don’t we all like being served? I’m all for some heartfelt attention and sacrifice directed my way, but if I’m honest, I’m a lot slower at giving my life away for others…for God’s honor the way Christ did. “Feet stink, people are messy and I’m busy watching “The Next Iron Chef” could be a good caption for my life. What about yours? The truth is, as Spirit-filled people, we sense God’s conviction to answer Christ’s calling to serve others. Sometimes we just need to be encouraged or invited to serve. That’s why in this month’s issue we’re spotlighting a grassroots ministry to the hurting and homeless in dowtown Montgomery. LaDonna Brendle, together with many volunteers, began a ministry called Reality and Truth, and on page 22 we want to share with you their story. We hope you’re encouraged to get involved with other Christians or on your own to give your life away in love, while you point to the one who first loved us and gave Himself for us. You know what I find interesting? In verse 17 of the same chapter, Jesus says we’ll be “blessed” if we serve others, yet, how often do we seek the Lord’s blessings apart from serving others? Some friends invited our family to spend this past Christmas Eve serving dinner to the needy at Reality and Truth. Yes, we had to make some adjustments to our traditional Christmas Eve schedule, but we had no regrets as we headed home that evening. In fact, it probably was the most special Christmas Eve our family has ever had. We were blessed! This Easter, and each week after, celebrate all that Christ has done for you. He’s redeemed you from the bondage of sin and death. And that redemption doesn’t just change us when we die and enter Heaven’s rest. It changes our lives today. Christ saves us from constantly looking to self. He frees us to give our lives away in service to others. Always remember, He has blessed you to be a blessing to others.
River Region’s Journey is published monthly by Keep Sharing, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123. For information, call 213-7940 or FAX to 213-7990. River Region’s Journey is copyrighted 2012 by KeepSharing. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. The opinions expressed in River Region’s Journey are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. River Region’s Journey has the right to refuse any content that is not consistent with its statement of faith.
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Pastor’s Perspective
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Assistant Pastor Benjamin Richey, Heritage Baptist Church, Prattville
Too Much to Say I have a six year old daughter who has the gift of gab. The problem is that if you listen carefully to all she says you’ll notice pretty quickly that not everything is truthful. It’s not that she intends to deceive you, but her rapid fire narration sometimes jumps track for a moment into the realm of speculation and exaggeration. She’s a good girl who loves Jesus and others, but she’s human, and unfortunately her little flaw is all too common. We live in a world that has been reshaped by social media such as YouTube, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and endless blogging. I saw a poster that said, “Never before have so many people with so little to say said so much to so few.” Our culture has told us that we all deserve 15 minutes of fame, and that whatever we have to say NEEDS to be heard. It encourages us to
River Region’s Journey • April 2012
update everyone continually concerning what we’re doing and thinking. In essence, social media has allowed everyone to become like my daughter and talk, in one form or another, nonstop. Our problem is that we’ve got too much to say, and most of it isn’t very good. As a kid my mom always told me, “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” A lot of us in America could benefit from this little piece of advice. Words are powerful and versatile things. While words can convey valuable information, be the impetus for change, and build people up, they can also be deadly. In scripture, James likens the tongue to a spark which erupts into a great forest fire. A single well placed word can do wonders…a strategically placed lie can destroy a life. But what about an endless cascade of words? Proverbs 10:19 says: “When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent (ESV).” The concept is beautifully simple, but in practice this is a very difficult thing. People are social creatures and we like to talk. Furthermore, we like to be heard. In fact, we need to be heard, and we need to know that someone both listens and cares. For the prudent among us, that means choosing carefully what we say and who we say it to. But for most of us, it means “say as much as you can as often as you can and eventually someone will hear you.” Talking too much is a lot like 4
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speeding. If you drive really fast one time, chances are, you’re not going to get caught. The sheer amount of open road in America in comparison to the number of police officers patrolling is pretty disproportionate. But make a habit of driving too fast, and you will get caught. Keep up the chatter nonstop and eventually you’re going to say something that is either not true, or not edifying, or perhaps just plain destructive. In many Christian circles today there is an emphasis on being in the world but not of the world. We’re experts at spotting seedy cultural influences such an acceptance of sexual promiscuity as the norm, the devaluing of the traditional family, and the elevation of celebrity to a godlike status. Yet, somehow most of us have missed the creeping danger of just saying too much. I have noticed it in me too, the subtle belief that if I think it then I need to say it, otherwise I will regret it. But what I’ve found is that more often than not, I’ve experienced more regret in what I’ve said than in the times I have exercised discretion. Proverbs 10 elevates the virtue of prudence. Our goal is to live virtuous lives that reflect Christ’s character, priorities, and love. Our words can be our undoing if we’re not careful. They can wreck our testimonies, derail friendships, and destroy people. In a culture that simply doesn’t have a mute button, Christians must learn to swim against the current. We must embrace prudence and learn to bridle the tongue, the texting thumbs, and the typing fingers. Sometimes, silence isn’t just golden, it’s life-saving. Benjamin Richey is the Assistant Pastor of Heritage Baptist Church in Prattville. He is married to Heather and they have two children, Mikaela and Christopher. He has been involved in youth, college, worship, and pastoral ministry for the past 15 years and is a graduate of the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago and Beeson Divinity School in Birmingham. For Advertising Information:
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Our Statement of Faith In keeping with Protestant theology, we believe that the Bible, as contained in the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments, is fully inspired by God and therefore inerrant in the original manuscripts. The Bible is the only essential and infallible record of God’s self-disclosure to mankind. The Scriptures are the authoritative and normative rule and guide of all Christian life, practice, and doctrine. They are totally sufficient and must not be added to, superseded, or changed by later tradition, extra-biblical revelation, or worldly wisdom. The Bible is perfect in every way and shows us how to become and live as Christians. The way of becoming a Christian is by faith alone in Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, who came to us, born of a virgin, in full human form while remaining fully God. Jesus was, and is, perfect, and was crucified so that others could live. Three days later He rose from the dead, never to die again. He ascended into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God the Father, where He, the only mediator between God and man, continually makes intercession for His own. Those who have faith in Jesus as their Lord in this life, and Savior from damnation in the next life, now live by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, becoming more like Jesus everyday. We believe that God is one God. The one God has three persons: the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Just as God is one, so also, all believers are to be one. We believe in the unity and fellowship of all those that have faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. We are one in Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church, His Body, which is composed of all men, living and dead, who have been joined to Him through saving faith. *All editorial content published must be in agreement with our Statement of Faith
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On The Bookshelf
by Gail Welborn
Full On Empty
by Kelly Carroll, Tate Publishing, 2011, 244 Pages, ISBN-13: 978-1617773365, $14.99
When Kelly Carroll, “…after 26 years of selfish rebellion…” accepted Christ, God gave her a “strong desire…and hunger…” for more of His presence. That longing led Kelly into a “forty day fast,” an endeavor that intimidates the most devout among us. Not only did Kelly want to obey God, she hoped to break spiritual “chains of bondage” that had held her family captive for three and four generations. With issues like “…abandonment, abuse, divorce, drugs…selfishness…carnal living…nonbelieving life styles.” Full on Empty documents Kelly’s fasting and prayer journey. Readers learn what fasting is, differences between fasts and how to fast. Her inspirational narrative of how God turned the “mess” of her life “…into a message for the world” carries hope and encouragement. Chapters include Scripture and end with summaries called Afterthoughts. When Kelly’s first day ends, pangs of hunger inspire her to affirm, “I…make Jesus Lord…not my stomach.” She uses a film development analogy to describe her growth with God as the photographer who uses His darkroom to develop her negatives--divorce, abandonment and abuse--into “positives.” After time in His “darkroom” she emerged complete, neither “underdeveloped nor overexposed,” but complete in Christ.
The Stranger in Your House
by Gregory L. Jantz PhD w/Ann McMurray, David C. Cook, 2011, 240 Pages, ISBN-13: 978-1434766229, $14.99
Who are you and what have you done with my child? This question opens Dr. Jantz’s new release with an overview of the rocky road of adolescence, what is normal, what isn’t, what to expect and when to be alarmed. Parents learn to determine whether their teen’s behavior is the “natural angst of their age…or if something more serious is going on.” Chapters begin with anecdotal illustrations and end with “Bringing it Home,” a segment of activities and self-evaluation questions to consider. Jantz recommends completing each chapter before going on to the next and when the book is finished, to reread “Bringing it Home.” He believes parents will be surprised at what changes and what remains constant. While the book’s focus is teenagers, he writes, “…it’s also a book about you…” the parent. If you feel challenged and stressed over the teenager or pre-teen living with you, open the door to hope with The Stranger in Your House. The book is helpful for any parent who needs encouragement through the roller-coaster ride of adolescence. The final chapter on God, faith and parents is worth the entire book.
Far Flutterby
by Karen Kingsbury, Illustrated by Jennifer A. Bell, Zonderkidz, 2012, 32 Pages, Ages 4 and Up, ISBN-13: 978-0310712138, $15.99
Karen Kingsbury’s imaginative release, Far Flutterby, a picture book for youngsters age four and up, with Jennifer A. Bell’s colorful illustrations, is sure to win awards. Not only does it engage children’s imaginations, Cody the Caterpillar’s story portrays biblical truths in simple terms, as well as Christ’s resurrection Easter morning. The story includes the delightful characters of Beulah Lee Bird and Franny McFly from the land of Far Flutterby and begins with Cody’s musings. Although bespectacled Cody the Caterpillar from the town “Better-than-Brown” crawls on the ground, he wonders as he inches up a tree, “if there’s more to this life than just branches and leaves.” This delightful story in rhyme combines with colorful illustrations that teach God has a plan for everyone as God says in Jeremiah 29:11. That it’s through the hard times, when we feel imprisoned by circumstances beyond our control that we “can’t give up hope,” that we must have faith and believe. A narrative that affirms Christ breaks free from His own wrappings inside the tomb and rises resurrected, like Cody, to fulfill God’s plan for Him and for us, His children. River Region’s Journey book reviewer Gail Welborn lives in Sedro-Woolley, Washington.
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Programs offered for all ages and stages of life. Sunday 8:30 am 9:45 am 11:00 am 5:00 pm 6:15 pm
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Bring them in... Build them up... Send them out... 305 South Perry Street | Montgomery, AL 36104 | www.montgomeryfbc.org 7 Call 334.834.6310 334.213.7940 today! www.ReadJourneyMagazine.com
April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
Clothes4Souls and Stop Hunger Now at Aldersgate
Aldersgate UMC will host two exciting events on Saturday April 21, 2012. A clothing drive will be held to support Clothes4Souls, a Nashville based organization. Clothes4Souls works with clothing manufacturers and every day citizens to collect new and gently worn clothing to be distributed to people in the local and international world that are in desperate need of assistance. Aldersgate UMC will host a community wide clothing drive drop off from 8am -1pm. Please bring new or gently worn clothing. These items should be clean and still in good shape. Worn clothing should not have holes and should still be in wearable condition. NEW clothes of any type are accepted. No shoes please. Not only are we helping those in need by providing clothing, but also we are helping reduce the amount of clothing that ends up in our landfills everyday. For more information visit clothes4souls.org or contact 300-4835. In addition to a clothing drive, we will also be working with Stop Hunger Now, a Raleigh-based international hunger relief agency. Stop Hunger Now launched its meal-packaging program in 2005. The program perfected the assembly process that combines rice, soy, dehydrated vegetables and a flavoring mix including 21 essential vitamins and minerals into small meal packets. Each meal costs only 25 cents. The food stores easily, has a shelf life of five years and transports quickly. Last year we packaged 50,000 meals and are hoping to package an additional 50,000 meals on the morning of April 21, 2012. If you are interested in participating in this event or in making a monetary donation please contact 334-300-4835 for details or log onto to http://www.stophungernow.org.
Extraordinary Women Conference 2012
Featuring Sarah Palin, Julie Clinton, Candace Cameron Blue, and musical guests MercyMe! April 27-28 Birmingham, AL Call 1.800.526.8673 or visit www. EWomen.net for tickets!
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Volunteers Use Sewing Talents to Minister to Congregation, Community
Two days a week, two different groups of women gather to sew for special occasions, other ministries, and to complete special projects for both Frazer UMC and the Montgomery community. One group of volunteers meets Tuesdays from 3:306 p.m. and the other meets Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Though the women are all part of the same ministry, the two groups have different projects that they work to complete. Joan Burden leads a volunteer group of about three women on Tuesday nights. A majority of the ladies’ time is spent working on baby clothing for the Baby’s First program at the Methodist Children’s home. Most recently, the project of the Tuesday night volunteers has been to make 560 bibs for Father Purcell Memorial Children’s Center. At Father Purcell’s, there are 58 beds and every child wears a bib. The bibs need to be changed about 7-10 times a day. If you or someone you know is interested in teaching a sewing class, being part of the class, or joining the Sewing Ministry, please contact Beth Harrell at 334-244-8743 or Robin VanderMey at 334-495-6312.
OASIS 5K, 1-Mile Fun Run & Tot Trot
Missions BBQ & Flea Market
April 7, 2012, 8 am, Millbrook, AL Proceeds from this race will benefit the missions and outreach programs of the Oasis Youth Ministry of Millbrook FUMC. The 5K will start at the parking lot of Millbrook First United Methodist Church. For a registration form go to www.mfumc.org, register on line at www.active.com (search keyword “oasis”) A map of the route can be found at www.mapmyrun. com/routes/view/6510202. E-mail questions to mfumc.oasis5k@gmail.com. River Region’s Journey • April 2012
On Saturday, May 5, the 22nd Annual BBQ will be helping Frazer UMC send students to the Dominican Republic, Atlanta, Haiti and Ethiopia. You can do your part by purchasing your tickets for only $8 a plate or $5 a sandwich bag. The BBQ will run from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and you can dine in the Fellowship Hall or pick up your BBQ to go. We will once again make free deliveries to businesses wanting to treat their employees. Contact the Student Ministry office at 495-6409 for details. Singles Missions Flea Market: Participate in one of three ways, all of which go to help Singles participate in missions: 1. Come shop from 7 to 1 the day of the BBQ and find a bargain; 2. Donate your stuff; bring it by the Singles office, or we’ll pick it up! 3. Rent a booth--15x20 space for $20. For donations or rentals call 495.6390. 8
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Blessed Be the Brown Bag
The New Church @ 301 Dexter, a United Methodist congregation (formerly Dexter Ave. United Methodist Church), launched its “Blessed Be the Brown Bag” program during spring break for Montgomery schools. The program provided a free, nutritious sack lunch to children at various community centers during extended school holidays. With the help of the Parks & Recreation Department of the City, church members have identified four community centers this year that will be beneficiaries of the program: King Hill, Highland Gardens, Sheridan Heights, and Smiley Court. To date, U.S. Foods, Earthfare, Publix, Sysco, Costco and Sam’s Club have supported the project. Child Evangelism Fellowship has also teamed up with the church to provide their Party Club at participating community centers while the children are eating their lunches. Many children living in families facing food insecurity rely on school lunch as their only meal of the day. The New Church @ 301 Dexter is here to help fill the gap during extended school holidays (spring break, Christmas break). The percentage of Montgomery County children living in poverty is 29%, and 62% are eligible to receive the free school lunch program. The reality is that the school lunch is their main source for nutritious meals during the week. If there’s not enough food in the house, these children can go hungry on extended school holidays. The program relies on donations from local businesses, community supporters, and foundations. The church does not receive any city, state or federal funding for the program. Please contact the church at 263-0549 if you would be willing to donate to this ministry or to serve as a volunteer during spring break. Donations may be sent to The New Church @ 301 Dexter, “Blessed Be the Brown Bag” ministry, 301 Dexter Ave, Montgomery, AL 36104. Donations can also be made on-line at www.dexterave.org. Call 334.213.7940 today!
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
Frazer’s Toasty Toes Ministry Delivers Socks, Smiles to Local Nursing Homes
Eggstreme Egg Hunt at Saint James UMC
This year’s Toasty Toes Ministry Valentine’s sock drive collected just over 700 pairs of socks to deliver to local retirement and assisted living facilities. Toasty Toes coordinator Donna Burnett and several volunteers delivered the socks to Angels for the Elderly, Crowne Healthcare, Belmont, Elmcroft and Wesley Gardens. Volunteers included Wendy Blackmon, Diane Allen, I Am Patillo Resurreccion, Cissy Harper, Catherine Goodwin, Judith Glanzer and Melodee Wyatt. A large donation was given to Faith Rescue Mission, as well. Frazer member Annette Freeman and her husband delivered socks to John Knox Manor. “The residents were genuinely touched to have someone take the time to visit with them if only for a few minutes. The stories (and jokes) they had to tell were of such interest, it made me just want to hear more and more of their memories and tales from 40-50 years ago,” Judy Glanzer said. “Many of the residents in the nursing homes were unable to communicate verbally with us but you could just see the love in their eyes. Some of their relatives that were there were very grateful that we took the time to visit and bring socks to their loved ones. I pray that this outreach will continue and grow for many, many years.”
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Saint James UMC will have an “Eggstreme Egg Hunt” on Saturday, April 7th from 3:00-4:30 pm. All children through 5th grade are invited to attend; don’t forget to bring your Easter basket! There will be prizes, arts & crafts, games, food, egg launching, and the egg hunt! Come celebrate Jesus’ resurrection with us! The church is located at 9045 Vaughn Road. For more information contact Saint James UMC, 334-277-3037. Saint James UMC will celebrate Easter at 4 services on Easter Sunday, April 8th: Traditional 9:30 and 11:00 am, and contemporary 9:30 and 11:00 am. Join us as we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection! The church is located at 9045 Vaughn Road. For more information contact Saint James UMC, 334-277-3037.
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AUM Students Spread the Gospel on Spring Break
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Switchfoot Concert in Birmingham
While many college students spend their spring break unwinding at the beach, a group of AUM students spent theirs spreading the gospel in Boston on March 9-17, on a mission trip led by Baptist Campus Ministries. “It gives more meaning to the time I have off if I can help others,” said Alex Hood, a sophomore from Huntsville who worked as a life guard at the YMCA over Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks to earn the funds needed to participate in the trip. “All of my breaks have been devoted to this goal.” The mission group worked with partner churches and student ministries to share Christ with fellow students attending Harvard and MIT.
The popular rock band Switchfoot will perform at Samford University on Thursday, May 3, at 7 p.m. in Pete Hanna Center. Tickets are on sale now. The fivemember group began with successes in the Christian rock scene before gaining mainstream recognition when its music was featured prominently in the 2002 movie A Walk to Remember. Their seventh studio album, Hello Hurricane, received a Grammy award in 2011 for Best Rock Gospel Album. All tickets are $16 and are general admission. Tickets may be purchased at: https://www. ticketreturn.com/prod2/team.asp?SponsorID=4517. For information, call (205) 726-2276.
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A Christ centered peer based support group for those struggling with unwanted same sex attractions and family members or loved support and encouragement are available. Meets 1st, 3rd, & 5th Tuesdays @ 6:30 PM - Landmark Church More information: call (334) 277.5800 OR email barnabas@landmarkchurch.net Landmark Church is a member of the Exodus International network of churches that welcomes those who struggle with unwanted same sex attractions. a ministry of Church Call 334.213.7940 today!
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
Dave Says...
by Dave Ramsey
made to create
SEW BERNINA 51 N. Burbank Dr Montgomery, AL 36117 334-274-0887 www.berninausa.com
© 2011 BERNINA of America
Hunt Down College Money! Q. I’m 24, and I don’t have any debt except for a small student loan. I’m going to law school to study international law, and I have a scholarship that pays 25 percent. However, I won’t really be able to work much while I’m studying. How can I do this without taking on more debt? A.
If I were you I’d do some online research on all the governmental agencies out there. I’ll bet there’s one that’s willing to pay for your law school if you would agree to work for them for a few years after you get out. It’s kind of an indentured servitude deal, but that’s a lot better than taking on $150,000 or more in debt. The scholarship is a good thing, but we both know it will only scratch the surface when you’re talking about law school. Think about this. You got the scholarship by finding a good opportunity and asking for it, right? There’s a ton of scholarship money out there, and millions of dollars of it goes unclaimed every year. If I were you, I’d get into the business of hunting money. Track down every possibility you can, and use every honest thing to your advantage!
Q.
How do you know when you’ve found your true calling when it comes to your job or your career?
A.
I’ve met a few people who’ve had a spiritual experience in this area. Something has happened, almost like they were struck by lightning, and they knew what they were supposed to do with their lives. This isn’t the normal way people come to realization about their futures, but it does happen from time to time. Usually, I believe this kind of revelation starts out as a simple idea that gradually grows into a job and then into a career. Then, it evolves over time into a calling.
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That’s how I stepped into what I’m doing today. I can’t honestly tell you that when I started on radio, or began writing and teaching, that I knew it was God’s purpose for my life. But I felt the weight and the drawing of it, almost like a magnetic pull. I’ve been doing it for 20 years, so it definitely evolved over time into what it is today. Still, I’m positive it’s the reason I’m on this planet!
Q. I was wondering why you recommend doing a fresh budget every month. Once you’ve figured out your expenses and income, won’t the same budget work month to month? A.
I understand what you’re saying, but if you look closely at every month, you’ll see pretty quickly that they’re not all created equal in terms of expenses. On top of that, if you work a commission-based job, your monthly income will fluctuate throughout the year. Now, there are some things that will remain pretty standard. A few things like your rent or mortgage payment will probably be the same month to month. But what about things like utilities and food? Chances are your electric or gas bills will be higher during certain months as you heat and cool your home depending on the weather. What about holidays and special occasions? It’s likely you’ll end up spending more on food, gifts and related items around Thanksgiving and Christmas or other months when family and friends have birthdays and other events. These are just a few of the reasons it’s a good idea to customize your budget every month. A good, accurate monthly budget should always reflect your reality. Not only will this give you a more realistic idea of where your money is going, but the knowledge also helps you control your money instead of it controlling you!
Dave is the author of The New York Times best-selling book Financial Peace. He is also the host of the nationally syndicated The Dave Ramsey Show, and is a regular guest on television. All of his financial counseling is based on biblical truths. You can hear Dave from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., weekdays, on WLWI 1440 AM or online at www.daveramsey.com. Send your questions to askdave@daveramsey.com. He resides with his wife Sharon and their three children, Denise, Rachel, and Daniel, in Nashville, Tennessee. For Advertising Information:
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
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I Can Read It...
But Can I Understand It? by Reed DePace
In a nightmare, I was in a classroom with lots of other students, taking one of the standardized tests like the SAT. Nervous enough, as such tests make most, I froze as I looked at the next section of it. It was a reading comprehension test, “Read the following paragraph and then explain what it means. You will be graded on how well you comprehend what the writer is saying.” Anxiety gripped me. I could read the words, but what if I didn’t read them rightly? What if I didn’t comprehend, didn’t understand what I was reading? Ahhh!!!. Such flashbacks to the anxieties of our teenage years are common and harmless. Yet there is a real nightmare out there, one that as a pastor scares me for God’s people. Particularly, it involves how we read God’s word. I know you can read it (some better than others to be sure). My concern is, do you understand it? This is a comprehension test which we dare not fail. This is a particular problem in our day and age. Visit a Bible study sometime and listen to the answers given to the question, “What does this passage in the Bible mean?” In many evangelical churches you’ll hear as many opinions River Region’s Journey • April 2012
as there are people in the study. “What I think it means,” or “what it means to me,” are common phrases, demonstrating the confusion of opinions. We live in age of the Tyranny of Opinions, with very little authoritative understanding of God’s word. That we are spiritually languish is the least of our worries. We need to resolve this issue once and for all. Each of us needs to be persuaded of how we are to read, to understand what the Bible is saying – and not just the big parts, but in the details as well. Our relationship with Christ is one that is particularly mediated through the written word of God. We must learn how to live by faith in this regard, and so see the Tyrrany of Opinions banished from our lives. In this article I want to briefly explore the history of how we got to this point, note a particular warning the Bible offers, and then focus on the Bible’s own solution to this problem.
The History
Let me offer a summary of some key connections explaining, at least in part, how we got to this Tyranny of Opinions. In the early 1700s the intellectual era known as the Enlightenment began to take 14
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shape. Building on the earlier Renaissance emphasis on earthly matters, the Enlightenment proposed one simple idea: man, with his intellectual capacities, was both the investigator and determiner of truth; by the application of man’s own reason, he could determine what was the true nature of all things. Accepting this premise of man as judge, as the 1800s began theologians in Europe, and then in America, began to investigate the Bible and its origins. These men did not necessarily deny that the Bible was God’s word. Rather this point really did not matter to them. Instead they were interested in exploring the Bible’s human roots. Their goal was to treat the Bible as if it were any other book written by men, and explain how it came to be in the form we have it. Of course, this led to the conclusion of Higher Critical Liberal scholarship, namely that the Bible is not really after all the Word of God, but rather merely man’s word about God. In the late 1800s – early 1900s this error took full bloom in the American Church. Much of the 20th century was marked by the conflict between the modernist-liberal theological and the fundamentalist-evangelical wings in the For Advertising Information:
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American Church. Along the way, a plethora of opinions as to how to read the Bible cropped up. These resulted in the dramatic splintering of the American Church. From an earlier scene where there were a handful of big denominations that mostly agreed with one another (and a scattering of small denominations), the American Church exploded in a splintering comparable to a sledge hammer being brought down on a fine china teacup. What’s worse, as the recognized way of understanding the Bible was lost, a host of these splinters degenerated more and more in their reading of the Bible, coming up with all sorts of fresh expressions of ancient heresies. All the major cults from the 19th century are directly attributable to this splintering in understanding.
The Warning
This is still going on even now. The airwaves are filled everyday with “evangelical” preachers whose reading of the Bible produces all sorts of silly, weird, and often dangerous “this is what the Bible means” interpretations. Each year yet another book purportedly accurately teaching something from the Bible, becomes a bestseller amongst evangelicals – a book filled with such poor and faulty teaching it is misplaced graciousness to not call it drivel. Brothers and sisters, I see the results of this among us. We all have a strong “amen” to the words of Scripture. Yet some of us voice opinions that demonstrate we don’t quite get how to read the Bible. Some of us talk fondly of books that at best offer more confusion of the Tyranny of Opinions. Some of us watch or listen to men (and women) who are best described as false teachers – and we don’t recognize it! Consider God’s warning through Paul: As I urged you when I was going to Macedonia, remain at Ephesus that you may charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine, nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith. ~ 1 Timothy 1:3-4 But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. ~ Titus 3:9
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A lot of what passes for accurate explanation of the Bible is anything but. We need to heed the warning, and have nothing to do with anything or any teacher who does not teach the gospel accurately, from every page of Scripture:
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But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or if you accept a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it readily enough. ~ 2 Corinthians 11:3-4
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As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed. ~ Galatians 1:9
The Solution
I remember going through a discussion similar to the one you and I are having now as you read this. It was in a class at seminary where the professor was discussing the splintering of Call 334.213.7940 today!
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
our ability to rightly read, to understand what the Bible means. I remember sitting there getting hot as I thought about my own frustrations. Fifteen years of serious Bible study and at best I had a splintered understanding. It was like a jigsaw puzzle that I could only fit bits and pieces together because no one had given me the box top to show me the picture of what the puzzle was supposed to look like. Then my professor made a simple suggestion, a solution so obvious that I was embarrassed I hadn’t thought of it. If we believe Jesus is God, and if we believe that God wrote the Bible (through men), then why not ask Jesus what the Bible means? Duh!!!! Consider that the Apostles were promised by Jesus that the Holy Spirit would: 1) bring accurately to their remembrance all that he had taught them (John 14:26), and 2) that they would be his witnesses, one’s who would accurately report all that he had taught them (John 15:27, Acts 1:8.). Did you know that in every 1-½ NT passages an OT passage is referenced, inferred or alluded to? Consider what this means: the whole NT is nothing more than an explanation of what the OT means! In
River Region’s Journey • April 2012
other words, we already have a record of what Jesus says the Bible means! Now you may be thinking to yourself, “Well, it’s not that easy.” Fair enough. Consider what else God has done that we might rightly read and understand his Bible. The Apostles needed the Holy Spirit to accurately write the NT, and we need to Holy Spirit to accurately read the NT. We shouldn’t be surprised that God has given us what we need: Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual. 1 Corinthians 2:12-13
This isn’t our only help. Remember the Ethiopian Eunuch’s question, “How can I understand unless someone explains it to me?” God continues to answer this question whenever we ask in faith: And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ. ~ Ephesians 4:11-12
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Consider how this works. The sovereign God who has called us to faith through Christ, has now called us to read and understand his word. To effect that, he’s given us pastor-teachers, men called and gifted by the Holy Spirit, to teach us from the outside, using the ordinary intellectual means. Then he has given us the Spirit of wisdom and understanding (Ephesians 1:17) to teach us from the inside, teaching our souls. Even more, he promises to “amen,” to confirm the accuracy of what our pastor-teacher teaches us. Brothers and sisters, we live in an area where “everyone” is a Christian – and only a few look discernibly like Christ. We need to admit we have been spiritually eating poorly for quite some time. The church is being called to a renewal, a revitalization of our experience of what it means to be the redeemed family of God. It begins with our feeding on Christ, our reading and understanding the Bible. Our community needs a restoration of such right reading and understanding. Let us give ourselves, by faith in words and actions, to learning at the feet of Jesus how to read the Bible the way he does. He is sure to add blessing to his “AMEN!” Reed DePace is pastor of First Presbyterian Church, located at 9299 Vaughn Road.
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April 2012 • River Region’sFoods Journey OUR THANKS ALSO TO: Montgomery Movers • Calhoun
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Finding Your Mountain Top in the Valley Psalm 23: 4: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” A little girl only three and a half years old, fighting for her life and leading her entire extended family in prayer… That’s what happened recently when a local little girl named Karlie Gill made it home from the hospital and her grandparents were making up for six missed birthday celebrations among their family—missed celebrations due to the fact that Karlie had spent several months in and out of the intensive care unit at Children’s Hospital in Birmingham, fighting a severe infection. Her grandfather told me as they gathered in a large circle holding hands to bless the meal, Karlie without any prompting just started praying. For five minutes or more, Karlie said thank you. Thank you, Lord, for
fixing my tummy, thank you for the doctors, the nurses, my mom and dad and the thank you’s just kept coming. When she finished everyone in the circle said, “Amen!” Many of you are following Karlie’s story. She’s better today, but still recovering and needs our prayers. Karlie was diagnosed last fall with a condition known as HUS syndrome from a severe case of E. coli. Over the last several months her parents have prayed through moments of almost losing their precious daughter. Joining them in prayer were grandparents, aunts and uncles, her sister, coworkers and thousands of people through the Facebook site, “Praying for Karlie”. Karlie is Tommy Nichols’ youngest grandchild and he credits her with teaching him more than he could ever imagine during this valley of an experience. It’s interesting though, to talk with Mr. Nichols, his very countenance says he’s on a mountain top.
Psalm 84:5-7: “Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.”
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In Psalm 84, the word Baca can mean weeping, so it’s believed the Valley of Baca represents struggles and tears through which people must pass on their way to meet God. These times are later described in verse 7 as
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“strength to strength”-- each valley making us that much stronger, each valley pulling us ever closer to our Heavenly Father. Psalm 84 is about how God’s radiant presence helps us grow in strength, grace and glory. God led me to this passage of scripture eight years ago as I marked the 20th anniversary of my mom’s death. Sitting in a beautiful park on a beautiful day, this is the Psalm I studied. I could hear God saying, “Your mom lived a beautiful life and touched many people, now it’s your time, what will you do? Even through the struggles of life, even in the death of your mom, I’m with you and want to use you… what will you do?” You probably know someone who’s been through what the world would call an awful or terrifying ordeal, yet they tell you they wouldn’t ask God to change a thing—because what they experienced in feeling God’s presence during that time turned their valley into a mountain top. Some will tell you it’s the humbling and overwhelming blessing of having so many people pray for you; others say they felt God’s healing or protective hand in a way they never had before, and still others will tell you their “valley” changed them in ways that would have never happened without the discomfort, and now their spiritual walk is stronger than ever. I know cancer survivors who say they wouldn’t ask God to take their battle away and friends who have struggled financially, now in a better place, who say they’re thankful they went through their “Valley of Baca”. As a grandfather, Mr. Nichols wants his precious Karlie healthy and happy and out of this valley. But because his eyes are on Jesus, he and the members of his family are already standing on a “mountain-top” celebrating the victories Karlie has already won and those still to come! As a daughter, I would love to have my mother back, but I’m thankful for the extreme comfort God poured on me and the intense thirst for Him resulting from that loss. A thirst only quenched by God and time in His word. Verse 4 in Psalm 84 reads: “Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you.” During this month of Easter, what better time than now to praise God and say, “thank you”. Our Lord and Savior walked through a torturous valley to allow us to feel his living “mountain-top” presence everyday. In the midst of the valley and not quite four years old, Karlie Gill knows how to say thank you. Where are you in your walk? Can you say “thank you” today? Dear Heavenly Father, Only you, Almighty and Sovereign, could turn a valley into a mountain-top. Please keep our eyes focused on you as we travel from “strength to strength”, and may our walk be paved with “thank you’s”. We lift up little Karlie Gill and anyone reading this who has a struggle today. Please wrap your loving and healing arms around them—may they feel your presence and see the light of a better day. In the mighty name of your son Jesus Christ we pray, Amen. Kim Hendrix is the Director of Development at Saint James School in Montgomery. She leads the Shine Your Light ministry at Frazer Memorial U.M.C. and recently ended a 26 year career in television news. Kim and her husband Scott, have a 11 year old daughter, Annie, who brings them great joy. Call 334.213.7940 today!
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Counselor’s Corner by Lou Priolo
A Word to Pastors I am very grateful to the many Montgomery area pastors and church leaders who have trusted my colleagues and me at the Center for Biblical Counseling to assist them with shepherding their flock for the past 15 years. I write what follows out of a heart of gratitude and love for my brothers in Christ who have also been found faithful by Him and placed into the Gospel ministry. God uniquely calls church leaders to do the work of biblical counseling as a part of their pastoral responsibilities. Hebrews 13:17 is not only instructive to the church member, but also to the church officer. Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you. (emphasis added)
What does it mean to “keep watch” over the souls of the saints? The Greek construction of this word, which means to be watchful (attentive), is present and active, indicating continuous action on the part of the shepherd. This connotes an almost hypervigilant mind-set on the part of the shepherd. In other words, it’s not a matter of waiting around until some problem in the flock materializes, but rather of proactively looking for signs of a problem before it develops. A good shepherd will regularly examine his sheep. He will keep his eyes peeled for indications of sickness. He will notice any unusual smells or sounds emanating from the sheep’s bodies. He will check their fleeces, running his hands under the wool to check for scabs, unusual lumps, or insects. He will notice things that don’t look normal—not to find problems where none exists, but to deal with any real issues before they become serious ones. The point is that shepherding involves a level of intimacy with the sheep that too few church leaders are willing to achieve. Shepherding can be dirty work. All of this necessitates counseling. Paul’s example of an elder who is intimately involved with his flock can be seen in Acts 20:18–21. And when they had come to him, he said to them, “You yourselves know, from River Region’s Journey • April 2012
the first day that I set foot in Asia, how I was with you the whole time, serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials which came upon me through the plots of the Jews; how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and from house to house, solemnly testifying to both Jews and Greeks of repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.” Paul was not the kind of shepherd who locked himself in the study for 35 hours per week, only to come out to publicly preach on the Lord’s day. Rather, he would minister publicly and from house to house. That is, he would minister the Word to entire congregations, and he would minister the Word to smaller groups and individuals as well. Like a skilled marksman, the man of God knows how to wield his Bible as a shotgun (when, from the pulpit he sprays a wide pattern of bird shot, hoping to hit as many consciences as possible) or to utilize it as a 7mm ought 08 rifle (when, in the counseling office, he carefully places the crosshairs of his $1,200 Austrian-made scope on the exact spot where it will have the greatest impact). Few people have made this point as boldly as John Calvin in his commentary on the book of Acts, found in his Institutes of the Christian Religion: Publicly, and throughout every house. This is the second point, that he [the Apostle Paul] did not only teach all men in the congregation, but also every one privately, as every man’s necessity did require. For Christ hath not appointed pastors upon this condition, that they only teach the church in general in the open pulpit; but that they may take charge of every particular sheep, that they may bring back to the sheepfold those who wonder and go astray, that they may strengthen those who are discouraged and weak, that they may cure the sick, that they may lift up and set on foot the feeble (Ezek. 34:4) for common doctrine will oftentimes wax cold, unless it be holpen [helped] with private admonition. Wherefore, the negligence of those men is inexcusable, who, having made one sermon, as if they had done their task, live all the rest of their time idly; as if their voice were shut up within 20
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the church walls, seeing that so soon as they departed thence, they be dumb.
What was it that characterized the false shepherds of Israel? They were primarily concerned with their own needs, not those of the flock. The false shepherds of Ezekiel’s day were so concerned about their own advancement and enrichment that they neglected the sheep. They wouldn’t invest the time and effort necessary to care for the weak, sickly and diseased, or to seek after those who were scattered and lost. Their lack of attention to the individual needs of the sheep resulted in some of the flock becoming “food for every beast of the field” (C.F., Ezekiel 34:1-6). Our churches are filled with spiritually weak, sick, and diseased sheep. Many of these flocks have shepherds who possess, in the Word of God, the cure for all such spiritual maladies, but who, because they are only interested in “feeding” the sheep, will not care for their wounds. So, while all Christians are “competent to counsel,” all shepherds are “called to counsel.” And if you are called, you should be equipped. But are you? If you aren’t, let me urge you to consider attending some of the counseling courses we offer on Tuesday evenings in the winter, spring, and fall. For more information, call (334) 277-8404. Never forget that you have all that you need in the Word of God (and through the Holy Spirit) to not only feed God’s flock but also to cure its spiritually sick.
A graduate of Calvary Bible College and Liberty University, Lou is the author of several books, including The Heart of Anger, The Complete Husband, Teach Them Diligently, Getting a Grip, and Pleasing People. A noted lecturer, and full time biblical counselor for over 20 years, he is the director of The Center for Biblical Counseling at Eastwood Presbyterian Church where he is also an elder. He is an instructor at Birmingham Theological Seminary in Birmingham Alabama. Lou has an extensive CD ministry oriented toward helping Christians apply the Bible to specific problems in living. He is a Fellow in the National Association of Nouthetic Counselors, and a section editor for the Journal of Modern Ministry. Lou and his wife, Kim, are the parents of two girls, Sophia and Gabriella.
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Reality & Truth Ministries
Offering Help and Hope to the Homeless in Montgomery
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by Rachel Fisher
It is not often that you come across someone who possesses contagious joy, fearlessness and pure love for others like LaDonna Brendle. Reality and Truth, the ministry she began in 2008, is quickly becoming a force for good among the homeless and poor in downtown Montgomery. The fuel that drives this force is prayer and a desire to serve people--no matter who they are. LaDonna has abandoned the status quo and exchanged it for a life lived in the spirit of Jesus through serving the least, last and lowest.
Beginnings
Six years ago, LaDonna was working as an accountant. Even though she enjoyed her job, she felt there was something more. “All I could think about was serving people,” she says. “I didn’t know what or when or how, but I knew God was speaking to me.” River Region’s Journey • April 2012
Over time, LaDonna and her husband decided she would quit her job and home school their two children. During this time, she began to pray about what it was God was placing on her heart. LaDonna soon found herself on a plane to Israel. While she was there, her eyes were open to the drugs, prostitution, hunger, abuse and other needs that run rampant in the Promised Land. When she returned she wondered if God was calling her to move to Israel, but God had something else in mind for her. “I began to see God wanted me to take care of the needs in my own community first,” she explains. With new eyes, LaDonna began to see many of the same needs she encountered in Israel also existing in the lives of people in Montgomery, Alabama. Before leaving for Israel, LaDonna had filed “Reality and Truth Minstries” with the state as a non-profit organization and had 22
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created a mission statement she felt God had given her. “I had no idea what I would be doing, but I knew I had to take a step of faith,” she says. Now that she was back home she knew exactly what that was--to go to those people who’s needs resembled the needs of those she had met so many miles away. Reality and Truth first began by passing out Bibles and teaching Sunday “Street” School in a gas station parking lot. They also took their first team to Israel. One day, LaDonna was hit with a new reality. It was one that would prove to be pivotal for the future God has planned for Reality and Truth.
Daily Dinners
In 2011, LaDonna was taking one of the men “home” who came to a Bible study she was a part of leading. “When I dropped him off at the vacant building where he was For Advertising Information:
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staying, he asked if I could bring him some Ramen noodles for dinner. I said I would and asked if there was anywhere for people like him to eat dinner downtown. “No,” he said. “There’s nowhere to eat.” With those words ringing in her heart, LaDonna prayed. As she did, she began to hear God speak to her heart. “He told me to take dinner to Overlook Park seven nights a week.” At first, LaDonna was hesitant to make such a huge commitment, but she trusted God would provide help. And he did. In December of 2010 the “Daily Dinners” began. “We started with Ramen noodles and then friends began to drop off food that we put into dinner bags to hand out,” she explains. Soon, people offered to cook hot meals and God provided volunteers to help be in charge of different days. Having volunteers allowed LaDonna to experience the relational aspect, which she says she enjoys most. During this time LaDonna began to see the biggest needs among the people she was serving was a need everyone has. “No matter who you are, people need to know they have a name and that they are loved for who they are and where
they are, no matter what,” she says. “They need to know there is a Savior. That there is hope.” Each night LaDonna prayed with those who came to be fed and spent time getting to know them. “Some nights there would only be two people there, and one night, no one came. But I knew I was supposed to keep doing this, so I did.” A little over a year later, LaDonna is beginning to see the fruit of her obedience to stepping out in radical faith in God, and it’s making waves across the homeless and poor population in downtown.
One Church Mission Center
In December of 2011, Reality and Truth Ministries was able to rent a space at 515 South Court Street. The space serves as Phase 1 of One Church Mission Center until they can purchase a larger space downtown. All that goes on at the center is a reflection of LaDonna’s desire to care for the “whole person”. From being fed dinner, to
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ministry is Isaiah 61:1-3:
3 Areas of Need at One Church Mission Center
The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of (coffee, sugar, creamer, cups, napkins, stirrers, toilet beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy paper, paper towels, all purpose cleaner, garbage bags) instead of mourning, and a garment being fed the spiritual food of God’s wordof praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of -all of it points people to Jesus. The verse that LaDonna felt God had given her for the righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor...
1) Prayer • Wisdom and discernment for leadership • Salvation and holiness for community we serve • Protection from works minded servants • Love to abound richly in the mission center 2) People • Relationial and discipleship minded helpers • Men to disciple men • Church groups to serve dinner Leadership • Development of permanent facility • Overseers for various mission areas 3) Provision • Financial resources (monthly contributions) • Christian literature • Men’s clothes and shoes • Center supplies
“This was Jesus’ mission and it is ours as well,” she says. The center is open every day from 3-6 pm and serves a variety of people, but the majority are homeless men. Each night, different organizations or churches serve dinner for up to 100 people who walk through the doors. On Sunday nights, they hold Bible study along with dinner. The center houses a small kitchen, rooms of clothes for men, women and children, Logos Café and a living room, as well as, an administrative office. The newest addition to the center are the showers and laundry facilities. A commodity that is lacking among the homeless community is now a reality for the many who have used the Alabama River as their “shower” and “washing machine” for so long. The center has provided the ministry an opportunity to host a place for social workers to meet with the homeless. A representative from Family Promise comes once a week as well as a representative from Veterans Affairs to aid the homeless in getting back on their feet. “It has been so amazing to see how God is preparing their hearts before they even walk through these doors to receive
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the love of Christ,” says LaDonna. She says she has begun to see people experience healing and reconciliation with people in their lives which ultimately leads to a restored relationship with their Creator. “It’s just beautiful,” she says. While many are quick to label LaDonna as a “Mother Theresa” of Montgomery, she notes she is nothing special. “I’m just someone who has been changed and is being changed by God on a daily basis, and I want to help others see God wants to change their hearts and lives, too.”
Seeing With New Eyes
“Before I was saved I was focused on outward appearances,” explains LaDonna. “But once I gave my life to Jesus he opened my eyes. I looked at everyone differently. I saw everyone had needs and no one was perfect. It’s not about “having a heart” for any one kind of person, but seeing everyone with new eyes. When we think about conforming to his image and seeing things from his perspective, we see that everyone is who he wants no matter who they are.”
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With her eyes open to the realities of God’s kingdom, LaDonna looks forward to what God will do among the people she is serving. Whether homeless, addicts, educated, uneducated, rich or poor, LaDonna has seen the importance of allowing people to be seen for being a child of God with purpose and potential. If you or your church or group is interested in volunteering or learning more about how you can be involved, email LaDonna at realityandtruth@live.com. “The mission of Reality and Truth is to serve and glorify God according to the work of Christ by promoting the one source of truth amidst everyday realities, through encouraging,teaching, loving and gifting others.”
Two Convenient Locations! Ryan Rd (off Chantilly next to Walmart) On the Corner of Mcgehee and Carter Hill
Rachel Fisher loves learning what God is doing in the world and writing about it. Rachel and her husband, Chase, are members of Strong Tower at Washington Park, a church plant of Common Ground Ministries. Photos by Will Frye Photography. Call 334.213.7940 today!
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
Grace to You
(H tio the ex of we be
by John MacArthur
Self-Examination Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! (2 Corinthians 13:5) The Corinthians, prompted by the evil insinuations of the false apostles, had demanded proof of Paul’s apostleship. He reluctantly defended himself, not for his own sake, but for the Lord’s, and so the Corinthians would not be cut off from the truth he preached to them. But in this passage, he turned the tables on his accusers and challenged them to test and examine themselves. The Greek text places the pronouns before the verbs for emphasis and literally reads, “Yourselves test to see if you are in the faith; yourselves examine.” Instead of arrogantly and foolishly challenging the genuineness of
River Region’s Journey • April 2012
Paul’s relationship to the Lord, the Corinthians needed to examine the genuineness of their own salvation. The familiar New Testament terms peirazo (test) and dokimazo (examine) are used here as synonyms. They convey the idea of putting something to the test to determine its genuineness. The test was to see if the Corinthians were in the faith. Pistis (faith) refers here not to the subjective element of belief but to the objective body of Christian truth —the Christian faith. Paul’s call for self-examination was not a new concept. Job cried out to God, “How many are my iniquities and sins? Make known to me my rebellion and my sin” (Job 13:23; cf. 31:4–6). In Psalm 17:3 David declared, “You have tried my heart.… You have tested me and You find nothing.”
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“Examine me, O Lord, and try me;” he pleaded in Psalm 26:2. “Test my mind and my heart.” In perhaps the most familiar Old Testament example of self-examination David prayed, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way” (Ps. 139:23–24). In Lamentations 3:40 Jeremiah exhorted his fellow Israelites, “Let us examine and probe our ways, and let us return to the Lord,” while the Lord’s challenge to Israel was, “Consider your ways!”
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(Hag. 1:5, 7). Describing the self-examination that is a prerequisite for participating in the Lord’s Supper, Paul wrote, “A man must examine himself, and in so doing he is to eat of the bread and drink of the cup.… But if we judged ourselves rightly, we would not be judged” (1 Cor. 11:28, 31). Like Paul, the writer of Hebrews understood well the danger of self-deception. Some of the people he addressed in his epistle were intellectually convinced of the truth of the gospel but uncommitted to Christ. He called them to examine the danger of that position in a series of warning passages, which show clearly the great risk of being in the church, but not in Christ. The first of those warnings is in Hebrews 2:1–3: For this reason we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away from it. For if the word spoken through angels proved unalterable, and every transgression and disobedience received a just penalty, how will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? After it was at the first spoken through the Lord, it was confirmed to us by those who heard.
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The phrase, “for this reason” points the reader back to the majesty and glory of Jesus Christ in expressed in chapter 1. He is revealed as the “heir of all things” (v. 2), the One who “made the world” (v. 2), “the radiance of [God’s] glory and the exact representation of His nature” (v. 3), and the One who “upholds all things by the word of His power” (v. 3). After making “purification of sins” on the cross, Christ rose from the dead and ascended to “the right hand of the Majesty on high” (v. 3). Jesus Christ is superior to the angels (vv. 4–7), since He is God (v. 8), the supreme Ruler of the universe (v. 13), and will judge those who fail to come all the way to faith in Him. The writer also noted a second reason not to reject the gospel, reminding his readers, “If the word spoken through angels [the Old Testament; cf. Acts 7:53; Gal. 3:19] proved unalterable, and every transgression and disobedience received a just penalty, how will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?” (Heb. 2:2–3). The Law was given through Moses, but the gospel through Jesus Christ (John 1:17). If those who rejected the Old Testament Law did not escape punishment, how will those who reject the gospel?
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Finally, the writer warned his readers that they were accountable because the gospel they had heard “was at the first spoken through the Lord,” then “confirmed to [them] by those who heard [the apostles], God also testifying with them, both by signs and wonders and by various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit according to His own will” (Heb. 2:3–4). They could not plead ignorance, having seen the gospel verified by supernatural signs. Because of the majesty of Christ, the example of what happened to those who rejected the Old Testament Law, and the powerful, miracle-attested preaching of the apostles, those who reject the gospel are without excuse. Before the storm of divine judgment bursts upon them, people need to examine the foundation of their spiritual life. Only what is built on the bedrock of true saving faith in Jesus Christ will survive (cf. Matt. 7:24–27). Widely known for his thorough, candid approach to teaching God’s Word, John MacArthur is a fifthgeneration pastor, a popular author and conference speaker, and has served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California since 1969. John and his wife, Patricia, have four grown children and fifteen grandchildren. John’s pulpit ministry has been extended around the globe through his media ministry, Grace to You.
April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
Family Teams for Christ
do we ey pia bro no pu ad pra W or it i wi is tha
by Lisa and Mike Conn
A Hunger for Peace As I write this article, teens across the nation are excitedly anticipating the release of The Hunger Games, a popular “young adult” book series and now motion picture. The story is based upon an oppressed futuristic society controlled by a dictatorial government through hunger and an annual “Reaping”. Bob Hoose (March 16, Plugged In, Focus on the Family) describes the plot: Two kids are chosen in a lottery from each of the oppressed districts and sent off to participate in a televised death game. Twenty-four adolescents go in and only one bruised and battered contestant comes out, awarded with accolades and food bonuses for his or her home dis-
trict. It’s brutal and barbaric, but it’s the way things work in this dystopian world. So when the story’s heroine, 16-year-old Katniss, selflessly steps up to take her younger sister’s place in the Reaping, she knows she’s likely signing her own death sentence. Peer pressure being what it is, our twelve-year old has been begging for a taste of The Hunger Games, forcing us to grapple with some tough issues. We decided to seize this opportunity to teach our child the basics of biblical decision making. As a 12 or 13 year old, Jesus discussed important biblical truths with the elders of the church and was expected to have a level of maturity to “walk
with the men”. When my parents were children, many twelve-year olds were plowing the fields, taking care of the family’s livestock, and contributing in meaningful ways to the betterment of the family team. All this considered, along with the maturity level of the individual, purposeful training that helps our children make decisions that are in line with our beliefs and values is appropriate. The first step of biblical decision making is to consult our life instruction manual, the Holy Bible. What
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does the God’s word say about what we allow into our computer brain—our eyes, ears, hearts and minds? Philippians 4:8, 9 is straightforward: “Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace with be with you.” (Unfortunately, there is very little coming out of Hollywood that meets these standards.) Secondly, we seek God in prayer, allowing some “quiet time” to be still and listen for His voice. Philippians 4:6, 7 instructs, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. When we make a decision that lines up with the truth of God’s word, we discover His peace—a feeling of confidence that without a doubt, we’ve made the right
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choice. Without His peace, we experience anxiety, turmoil, and indecision. Seeking wise counsel is a third component of biblical decision making. Where the entertainment industry is concerned, we’ve learned to trust the wise counsel of www.pluggedin.com, an on-line site for Christian reviews of the entertainment industry. This is a website our family visits when we need more information about the content of a book or movie. In this case, “Plugged In” won’t have their review available until the night before The Hunger Games opens in theatres—we have to turn in this article prior to the release of their review. During this process of searching the scriptures for answers, praying for wisdom and God’s peace, and seeking wise counsel, we have realized that, despite possible consequences of disturbing images, bad dreams, and a loss of innocence, our daughter may still ask to see The Hunger Games. And while we want her to make a decision that is biblically sound, we’re prepared to allow her the experience of taking the above steps and making her own choice while she is
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still at home with us. (Factored into the decision is spending her own money to see the movie.) If she regrets her choice during the viewing, she knows she can get up and leave—and we will proudly leave with her. And while my husband and I have had several discussions about our parenting plan and have sought to be in agreement, it’s this last step of allowing her the final say that we still differ on. However, I trust my husband’s relationship with the Lord and the wisdom and leadership that he provides our family and am willing to trust him on this issue as well. Please visit our website at www. familyteamsforchrist.org to discover the final outcome of “A Hunger for Peace”.
Lt. Col Mike Conn and wife, Lisa, founded Covenant Family Ministries when Mike retired from the Air Force in 1997. CFM is an independent marriage and family education ministry committed to partnering with churches, organizations, and individuals in Montgomery and across Alabama to build Family Teams for Christ. Married for over 30 years, Mike and Lisa have three wonderful daughters, two great sons-in-law, and one precious granddaughter.
April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
2012 Easter Events Guide
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Aldersgate UMC
6610 Vaughn Road, 334.272.6152 Stations of the Cross Wednesday, April 4 Come anytime between 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Maundy Thursday, Holy Communion Service 7:00 P.M. Thursday, April 5 Good Friday Tenebrae Worship Service 7:00 P.M. Friday, April 6 Easter Son Rise Service 7:15 A.M. Sunday, April 8 led by the Aldersgate Youth Easter Celebration Worship Services Sunday, April 8 9:15 A.M. Contemporary 10:30 A.M. Traditional
Beacon of Hope Church of God
1045 Coliseum Boulevard, 334.274.0932 Easter Celebration Musical Sunday, April 8 at 11:00 a.m. Nursery Available Community Son Rise Service 6:30 a.m.
Blue Ridge Baptist Church
4471 Jasmine Hill Road, just off Hwy. 231 334.567.4325 Easter Worship Celebration Courtyard Service, April 8 at 9 a.m. Special music, Easter message and communion. Breakfast following. Also morning Easter worship at 11 a.m. with music and Easter message
Capitol Heights Baptist Church 2514 Madison Avenue, 334.264.6461 Easter Worship Service Sunday, April 8, 10:30 a.m.
Christ Community Church 8285 Ryan Road, 334.273.8110 Easter Egg Hunt
River Region’s Journey • April 2012
April 7th from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Easter Sunday Services April 8th, 10 am
Church of the Brook
2890 Highway 14, Millbrook, 334.285.5783 Easter Services Sunday, April 8, at 10:30 a.m.
Eastmont Baptist Church
4505 Atlanta Highway, 334.277.6300 Easter Morning Worship April 8, 8:10 and 10:30
Evangel Temple
3975 Vaughn Road, 334.272.4882 Easter Sunday April 8, Worship Service Please call for time
First Baptist Church, Montgomery 305 S. Perry Street, 334.834.6310 Easter Communion April 4, 6:15 p.m. Good Friday Service Friday, April 6, 12 p.m. Easter Sunday Worship Services Sunday, April 8, at 8:30 & and 11 a.m.
First Baptist Church, Prattville
138 S. Washington Street, 334.365.0606 Easter Egg-citement Saturday, April 7, 10 a.m. to 12 noon For children ages Preschool to 2nd Grade Easter Services Sunday, April 8, Traditional 8:30 a.m., Contemporary 9:45 a.m., Traditional 11 a.m.
First Presbyterian Church
9299 Vaughn Rd. (corner of Vaughn and Chantilly), 334.279.1372 April 8, Easter Sunday Sunrise Prayer Service – 6:30 30
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Fellowship Breakfast – 7:45-9:00 Morning Worship – 9:30 Sunday School – 11:15 Please visit www.1stchurchmontgomery.com.
First UMC, Montgomery
2416 West Cloverdale Park, 334.834.8990 The Last Supper, Maundy Thursday April 5, 5:00 and 7:00 Good Friday Tenebrae Service April 6, 7:00 p.m. Easter Carnival April 7 from 11 a.m. Easter Sunday April 8, 7:00 a.m. Sunrise Service 8:30, 9:45 and 11:00 a.m. Worship Services
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Frazer Memorial UMC
6000 Atlanta Highway, 334.272.8622 Stations of the Cross in Wesley Hall April 4-6; Weds. 5 p.m.-8 p.m.; Thurs. 8 a.m.8 p.m.; Fri. 8 a.m.-7 p.m An interactive prayer journey through the last steps of Christ to the Cross. Open three days to allow you to come and go at your own pace. Stations of the Cross, Children’s version April, 4th from 4:30 until 7 p.m. Tenebrae Service Good Friday, April 6 at 7 p.m., Main Sanctuary Easter Services Sunday, April 8, Sunrise Service at 6 a.m. at Winton Blount Cultural Park. Traditional and Contemporary at 8:00, 9:30, and 11 a.m., Main Sanctuary and Wesley Hall. Hispanic Worship,10 a.m., 3711 Eastern Blvd.
Gateway Baptist Church
3300 Bell Road, 334.272.9494 Good Friday April 6, 7 p.m. Easter Service April 8 Easter Sunrise Service April 8, 6 a.m. In conjunction with Grace @ Bell Road Regular service, 10:30 a.m back at Gateway For Advertising Information:
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Glynwood Baptist Church
376 N. McQueen Smith Road, Prattville 334.361.9180 Easter Sunday Services April 8, Sunday School 9 a.m., Regular Morning Worship Service 10:15 a.m. The Sacrifice 7 p.m., April 8
Grace @ Bell Road
5 Bell Road at Atlanta Hwy., 334.272.4930 Easter Sunrise Service Sunday, April 8, 6:00 with breakfast following Worship Service, 10:30 a.m.
GracePointe
1565 Ray Thorington Road, 334.271.2525 Sunday, April 8, Easter Service 8 a.m. Service Easter Brunch April 8, 9:15 a.m. until 10 a.m. with free Easter photos. Regular worship schedule will follow.
Heritage Baptist Church
1849 Perry Hill Road, 334.279.9976 Saturday, April 14, Beginning at 11:30 Join us for Rise Up 2012 Heritage members and community friends dance their shoes off on the grassy field on Perry Hill Road adjoining the parking lot. Hundreds of dancers will celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and then donate new shoes to ministries. Bring a pair of shoes and watch the celebration!
Holy Comforter Episcopal Church
2911 Woodley Road, 334.281.1337 Maundy Thursday, April 5 Holy Eucharist with Choir - 6:00 pm Good Friday, April 6 Community Service at Holy Comforter at Noon Good Friday Holy Eucharist – 6:00 pm Easter Vigil April 7, Holy Eucharist – 6:00 pm Easter Sunday, April 8 10 am Family Service w/Holy Eucharist & Flowering of the Cross Recepiton, 11 a.m.
Lakeview Baptist Church
9225 Atlanta Highway, 334.213.3080 Sunrise Service Sunday, April 8, 7 a.m. (on the corner of Atlanta Hwy. and Tech. Center Dr.) Easter Worship Service Sunday, April 8, 10:45 a.m. Choir will be performing a musical.
Memorial Presbyterian Church 2130 Bell Road, 334.274.1018 Holy Week Piano Concert & Luncheon Tuesday, April 3 at noon Maundy Thursday April 5, 6 p.m. Children’s Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 7 at 10:30 a.m. Easter Sunrise Service Sunday, April 8, 6:30 a.m. Free childcare available through age 5. Easter Celebration Sunday, April 8, 11 a.m.
Morningview Baptist Church 125 Calhoun Road, 334.272.2304 Maundy Thursday Service Thursday, April 5, 7 p.m. Easter Services Sunday, April 8, 10:30 a.m.
Perry Hill UMC
910 Perry Hill Road, 334.272.3174 Maunday Thursday Community Service April 5 at 6:30 p.m. Tenebrae Service April 6 at 6:30 Sunrise Service with breakfast following Sunday, April 8, 6:30 a.m. Easter Worship Service Sunday, April 8, 10:30 a.m
Ridgecrest Baptist Church 5260 Vaughn Road, 334.277.0011 Easter Festival Saturday, April 7, Time TBA On Ridgecrest Campus Games, Crafts and Easter Egg Hunt for babies to 4th grade. Celebrate the Resurrection Easter Sunday, April 8, 10:45 a.m.
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
St. Joseph of Arimathea Anglican Church
355 Bell Road, 334.271.6700 Palm Sunday April 17, 11am, Holy Communion and Blessingof the Palms Maundy Thursday April 21st - Holy Communion & Stripping of the Altar - 6pm Good Friday April 22- Seven Last Words of Christ 12 noon to 3 pm; Holy Communion - 3 pm Easter Sunday April 24 - 11am Holy Communion & Easter Egg Hunt
Saint James UMC
9045 Vaughn Road, 334.277.3037 Maundy Thursday, April 5 6-8 p.m. Come and go service Good Friday, April 6 Service from 6-8 p.m. Easter Egg Hunt, April 7 3:00 - 4:30 a.m Easter Sunday, April 8 We will celebrate the Resurrection in our Worship Center and our Sanctuary. Contemporary Services, 9:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Traditional and Contemporary Services
St. Mark UMC
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1785 Taylor Road, 334.272.0009 Good Friday April 6 Service, 6:00 p.m. Annual Easter Egg Hunt, April 7 Done in conjunction with First Christian Church next door. Please come in by St. Mark to park. 10 a.m. until 12 p.m., under 12 years, please bring your own basket, lunch will be served afterwards. Sunrise Service April 8, 6:30 (in conjunction with First Christian). Breakfast served afterwards.
Taylor Road Baptist Church 1685 Taylor Rd., 334.271.3363 Maundy Thursday April 5, 7 p.m. Easter Service April 8, 10:30 a.m.
Thorington Road Baptist Church 450 Ray Thorington Road, 334.396.9376 Good Friday, April 6 at 6:30 Easter Egg Hunt, Saturday, April 7, TBA Easter Service Sunday, April 8 at 10:30 a.m.
Vaughn Forest Baptist Church
8660 Vaughn Rd., 334.279.5433 Resurrection Run April 7, www.VaughnForest.com for details Resurrection Sunday Service April 8, 10:30 am
Happy Easter! River Region’s Journey • April 2012
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
The Intersection:
Christian Cultural Commentary by Bob Crittenden
On Whom Do We Depend? The recent flap over the mandate by the Department of Health and Human Services requiring religious organizations, through their insurance companies, to provide free birth control (including types of contraception that can induce abortions) has brought to light an agenda that stands in contrast to the Judeo-Christian principles upon which America was founded and has long embraced. We have to recognize that our nation’s emphasis on dependence on God is being reduced, resulting in the rise of a sense of dependence on human wisdom, ingenuity, and control, embodied in a large, centralized government intent on managing the everyday lives of the citizenry. Please consider these points: People who are not submissive to God seek to escape the consequences that are found in His moral law. In the context of the contraceptive mandate, those of us with health insurance are being required to subsidize not only birth control for married people, but also for those who engage in sex outside of marriage. We recognize that promiscuous sex is out of God’s plan. With free birth control comes the illusion that the consequences will be eliminated, namely pregnancy and STD’s. But, there are still consequences – premarital sex brings a host of emotional issues, including guilt, mistrust, and instability. When those issues are brought into a marriage, we see less stable marriages. When there is marital instability, the divorce rate increases. Where there is divorce, there is an abundance of conflict, hurt, and a sense of abandonment – not only between the husband and wife, but manifested in the lives of the children. Children who grow up in unstable environments facilitated by divorce can experience a variety of emotional issues. There are economic consequences, as well: when the family structure is weakened, household income declines. The Family Research Council references a River Region’s Journey • April 2012
study that shows married couples had a median household income twice that of divorced households and four times the household income of separated households. FRC states that poverty rates are significantly higher among cohabiting families and single-parent families than among married families. And within non-traditional family structures, you have a multiplicity of candidates for government assistance. When you consider that the Federal government has amassed some $16 trillion in debt, much of which is allotted for open-ended entitlement programs, there is simply not enough taxpayer money to subsidize the growing obligations. Now, let’s go back to the original premise. The government is seemingly promoting promiscuity, not chastity. Furthermore, the beauty of pregnancy and bringing a child into this world is reduced to the level of a “disease” to be prevented. Instead of reinforcing the traditional values that have helped to sustain our nation for over 200 years, deeply rooted in the premises of the Scriptures, there is now a “ruling class” that would like for reliance on human institutions to replace reliance on God. While God’s laws teach us there are distinct definitions of right and wrong, and consequences for violating those laws, the secularist philosophy defines its own truth and makes its own determination of right and wrong, going so far as to label certain words and actions as “wrong” when they do not line up with its agenda. If reliance on God is expressed, that becomes a threat to the new status quo and must be suppressed. I believe the struggle is more intense than ever…I perceive a growing hostility toward Christianity in our culture. There are many reasons for that, including a popular mischaracterization of many people who follow Christ as being intolerant and bigoted. While 34
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we do have to watch how we relate to people with whom we differ, I do believe that Christians represent a moral foundation that many now want to reject. We are seen as the unenlightened, backward ones, hindering the new society that secularists want to create, free of the moral underpinnings that they feel have held our nation back. America in ages past has demonstrated a dependence on God and the church has been seen as a source of hope, supplying physical and spiritual help in times of need. The new secular philosophy, however, sees a large, centralized government as the supplier, the determiner of winners and losers, and controller of even simple lifestyle choices. Still, Christians can be hopeful in the Holy Spirit – in 1st Timothy 2, we are called to pray for our leaders. If they grasp the enormous challenges that we face as a nation and confront the philosophy that is propelling us into economic and moral collapse, then we can rejoice. But, even if our nation becomes more secularized, we can still cling to our bright hope in Christ, realizing that around the world, the church is growing in the midst of persecution. Either way, we know that Jesus Christ is Lord, and He is faithful to His people.
Bob Crittenden is host of “The Meeting House”, heard weekday afternoons from 4-6pm on Faith Radio, 89.1FM in Montgomery. Described as “the intersection of faith and culture”, the program features Christian music and conversation about a variety of topics. Learn more by visiting www. meetinghouseonline.info. For Advertising Information:
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
River Region Support Groups Adoption
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy APAC- Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connection Support Group meets the 3rd Thursday from 6:00-7:30pm in room 8253 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. For more info, call 409-9477 or email apac2@childrensaid.org. Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Leaders: Chad & Betsy Emerson (334) 201-5241 Wednesday, 6:30pm in Rm. 116. The Orphan Care Group will focus on God’s call to help orphans through adoption, foster care, and missions work. The group will share experiences, study and Biblical themes regarding orphan care, and provide a support and interest network for individuals who want to support orphans.
Alcoholic / Addict
Location: Caring Center of FBC, 52 Adams Avenue CrossRoads Support Group is for addicts/alcoholics and family members. Meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays and follows a Christ-centered 12-step program. Call 264-4949. Location: Centerpoint Fellowship, 2050 Commerce St., Millbrook. We are located one block east of I-65 just off Cobbs Ford Road. Celebrate Recovery meeting every Tuesday night at 6 pm. Call (334) 356-3076. Location: Cloverdale Baptist Church, 608 E. Fairview Celebrate Recovery, a Bible-based Christ centered approach to recovery from hurts, habits and hang-ups, meets Friday nights, beginning with dinner at 5:30 p.m., Praise and worship, 6:30, Open Share Small Groups, 7:30, and Solid Rock Cafe, at 8:30. Call 265-9223. Location: Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway Alcoholics Anonymous meets at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays. 272.2190. Alanon meets at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays. Location: Grace @ Bell Road, Corner of Bell Road and Atlanta Hwy. Alcoholics Anonymous and Alanon meetings are held Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, at 6 p.m. An Open AA Speaker meeting is held on Saturday at 6 p.m. An Alanon & AA held on Sundays at 2 p.m. Location: Grace Point Community Church, 78223 Tallassee Hwy (Hwy 14), Wetumpka Celebrate Recovery- every Tuesday night- 6:15pm. All are welcome! These meetings are a safe and loving environment for individuals seeking to conquer their hurts, habits and hang-ups! E-mail www.gracepoint.info. Location: Journey Church, group meets in Fellowship Hall at Coosada Baptist Church, Millbrook Celebrate Recovery - Christ-centered 12-step for anyone struggling with addiction or life-challenging issues. Mondays at 6pm (meal), 7pm (large group), 8pm (small group). Childcare available. Call Chuck at 850-723-9705. Location: Santuck Baptist Church, 7250 Central Plank Rd. (Hwy 9), Wetumpka. Celebrate Recovery meets each Thursday evening at 6:15 in the Fellowship Hall. This is a Chrsit centered 12 step-program for anyone struggling with hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Call 567-2364. Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. RSVP- This is a 12 step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and Bible we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, the making of amends for our destructive actions, and to fill the void in our hearts in a loving relationship with God. Wednesday nights @ 6:30pm in Rm. 121 of the Life Center. Location: St. James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road Celebrate Recovery meets every Thursday night from 6-8 pm in the Youth Room. This is a Christ-centered 12-step group for anyone struggling with an “addiction or life-challenging issues.” For information, call Chris Henderson at 334-215-0427.
River Region’s Journey • April 2012
Location: Trinity Episcopal, Wetumpka (Across from Winn Dixie on HWY 231) Gamblers Anonymous-Saturdays at 7 p.m.
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Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Dementia Daycare is held each Thursday in Rm. 3101 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Each participant may bring a sack lunch. There is no charge. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. For info, call the LifeCare office at 272-8622.
Location: Dalraida Baptist, 3838 Wares Ferry Road. Just for Men -- Montgomery’s first and only faith based cancer support group for men is intent on providing information, Christian fellowship, and helping turn adversity into prosperity. Meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Please call 272-2412 email cancerpatient@bellsouth.net. Location: ChristChurch, 8800 Vaughn Road Cancer Support Group for general cancer. Tuesday afternoons at 1 pm. For more info, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support Group, providing education, awareness, and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family, friends or anyone interested in becoming a part of this compassionate journey, meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in Rm 8253. Call 272-8622 or womenofhope@charter.net.
Caregiver
Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Road Caregiver’s Support Group – Meets monthly on third Wednesday 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. Caring for an elderly or terminally ill patient can be challenging and, at times, overwhelming. A support group provides a safe place to express your concerns and fears and find help and strength to care for your loved one. The group is open to the community. Call Aldersgate UMC 272-6152.
Depression
Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Leaders: Mike & Suzanne Greene (334-271-3331) Every other Tuesday, 6:30pm in Rm. 117. Goal is to create an atmosphere of acceptance and trust, where people can feel free and safe to discuss their feelings and thoughts without shame or embarrassment. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Depression/Bipolar Support Group meets on the 1st Thursday of each month from 7:00-8:30pm in Room 3101. This group also meets on the 3rd Saturday afternoon, 12-2 pm, Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway in Church Annex. For more info, call 334.652.1431 or email dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com. 36
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Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy An Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers’ Support Group meets on the first Thursday of each month at 11 a.m. in Room 3103. Call 272.8622.
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Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Alzheimer’s Support Group – Meets monthly on second Tuesday 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. This support group is for those caring for a loved one with Alzheimer or other forms of dementia. Each session provides information about the disease and community services available to help you. The group is open to the community. Call 272-6152.
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Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Divorce Recovery Support Group meets each Tuesday, at 5:30 p.m., in Fellowship Hall Lobby. 272-8622.
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Location: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth Street, Prattville Divorce Recovery meets Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m., Bldg. 101. Call 365.5977.
Location: Heritage Baptist Church, 1849 Perry Hill Divorce Care Support Group meetings are held Sundays at 6:15 p.m. Divorce Care for Children also at this time. Call 279.9976. Grief Share groups are held each Sunday at 5 p.m. Call 279.9976. Location: Vaughn Park Church, 3800 Vaughn Road A Divorce Recovery group meets on Wednesday nights, from 7 to 8 p.m. Children’s classes available. Call 386-7295.
Financial
Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Leaders: Rick Howard (334)399-7223, George Chapman (334)546-2364, Bo Johns (334)398-3185. Wednesday, 6:30pm in Rm. 203. Need some Biblical advice and guidance in handling your finances? Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University material will serve as resource material for this group.
Grief
Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Road Bereavement Support Group – Meets quarterly – six week classes that meet on Thursdays 11:30 – 1:00 p.m. Free meal is provided by our church women. Group is led by a professional grief counselor and is open to the community. For dates, call Aldersgate UMC 272-6152. Location: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth Street, Prattville Grief Recovery, Thursday nights at 7 p.m., in Wesley Hall Room 104. Call 365.5977. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Grief Recovery Support Group meets Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., Rm 3105, in Fellowship Hall Lobby. 272.8622. Location: Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1550 E. Washington Street Grief Ministry is a grief recovery support group that meets every Monday at 6:00 P.M. The ministry is designed to help anyone through the hurt of losing a loved one by successfully traveling the journey from mourning to joy. Alicia Glover is the coordinator. For more information contact Glover at 334-281-2754. Location: St. Mark UMC, 1785 Taylor Road Grieving With Hope is a grief support group meeting For Advertising Information:
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Tuesdays weekly at from 1:00 - 2:00 pm. The group will offer a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. The group is facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009.
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Fibromyaligia Support Group meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 6-8pm in room 8114. Call 272-8622.
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Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy An MDA/ALS Support Group will meet Tuesday August 10 6:00p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in room 3101. Anyone who is affected by a neuromuscular disease or family members of those affected are encouraged to attend. To receive further information, please call 396-4534.
Mental Illness
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Parkinson’s Support Group will meet the 3rd Thursday at 6:30 p.m., in room 8114 at Frazer UMC. This group is for those who have Parkinson’s disease and the family members. 272-8622.
Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. The Barnabas Group, created to address the needs of those in conflict with homosexual thoughts and feelings meets first, third and fifth Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m., in the library at the Life Center. 277.5800. Location: Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway AMI (Alliance for the Mentally Ill Support Group) meets on first and third Mondays at 6:30 p.m. Montgomery Share Group for the recovering mentally ill meets at the Dalraida UMC annex (3775 Atlanta Highway), 1st and 3rd Mondays, at 6:30 p.m. Call 265.2804
Physical Challenges
Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Road Visually Impaired Support Group – Meets monthly on second Thursday 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. The group is called Outward Sight - Inward Vision and is for those with vision loss and their caregivers. Our mission is to assist those experiencing vision loss to maintain their independence by providing access to valuable information and spiritual support. Call Aldersgate UMC 272-6152. Location: Cloverdale School Bldg. (First UMC) Parkinson’s Support Group of Montgomery meets the fourth Sunday of the month in Room 103 at 2:00pm. More information, contact Nathan Attwood at First United Methodist Church (334-834-8990). Location: First UMC Montgomery, 2416 W. Cloverdale Montgomery Hearing Loss Support Group meets every second Thursday in Wesley Hall at 4 pm. The entrance is on Park Avenue. Informative speakers are present, refreshments are served and no reservations are required. The public is welcome.
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Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Leaders: Junior Bagwell (334)669-9334, John Stewart Meets every 2nd Tuesday of each month at 345 Melanie Drive, in Carol Villa. Our goal is to share and use the struggles that we as a group are facing, biblical principals, prayer, medical experts or any other resources available to help us deal with the life-long challenges that are caused by the various diseases that we have encountered. Location: Taylor Road Baptist Church, 1785 Taylor Rd. Gluten Intolerance Group of Montgomery assists with awareness of diverse potential symptoms, which can range from fatigue and headaches to nausea and intestinal problems. Most months the group meets on the 4th Thursday from 6-7 p.m. at Taylor Road Baptist Church. The holiday schedule as well as directions and other information are available at http://gfmontgomery. blogspot.com or you can request information by sending an email to dr.hetrick@charter.net.
Location: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth Street, Prattville Hannah’s Prayer--for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Meeting 2nd Thursday and 3rd Sunday of each month. Call 365.5977 Location: St. James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road Renewed Hope - Infertility/Pregnancy Loss Support Group for Women. Meets every third Thursday, 6pm, alternating between Panera Bread (EastChase) and the home of one of our leaders. Please email Tina Holmes at tkholmes@hotmail.com or call 277-5771.
Singlehood
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Singles’ Small Groups meet each Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. For info, call 272-8622. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy T.N.T. (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles meets Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, bldg. 7000. A meal ($5.00) and program are provided. For reservations, call the Singles office at 272-8622. Location: Cornerstone Christian, 301 Dalraida Rd. Unavoidably Single Again (USA) Fellowship, a support group for widows and widowers. This is not a substitute for grief recovery classes, but offers the next step beyond them for those who need to find a ‘new’ normal for their lives after the death of a spouse. Informal meetings for fellowship and fun are held on the third Saturday of each month starting at 10 AM. Contact Lynda at farauthor@aol.com or 354-8869.
Veterans
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets on the 3rd Wednesday from 11am-1pm in Room 3108. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/OIF Veterans. For more information, contact Joy Germanos, LCSW, PIP, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS (334) 725-2542.
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Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy PSP (Progressive Supranuclear Palsey) meets 2nd Tuesday of each month from 6:30-8:30pm. For more information, please call the church office at 272-8622.
Pregnancy Loss / Infertility
Friendly Fridays Just starting or starting over Join us for Friendly Fridays beginning October 21 and we’ll help you start an exercise program just for you! Our trained staff will work with you and guide you through a workout. Y’s Up at Hampstead 239.8096 Y’s Up at Somerset 356.1351 Y’s Up at Westminster 832.1013
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For more information ymcamontgomery.org
Call 334.213.7940 today!
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
Got Life?
by Elaine Britt
Got Temptation? No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you to be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. (1 Corinthians 10:13) Your first test today is a fill-in-theblank, “I am the only one who ever _______.” Take your time…Anything? If we are honest, our answer is no. As human beings, we share a commonality of situations and life issues across the board. If we are lonely, surrounded by friends, depressed, or ecstatically happy, we can take comfort in the fact that others have been there before and will be again at some juncture. Sharing a negative experience distributes the burden while familiarity with a positive incident lifts our spirits. Many years ago a friend told me a story. While attending a party given by her best friend, she was introduced to a man with whom there was an immediate, almost overwhelming attraction. The magnetism and chemistry between them was conspicuous. The problem with this scenario, however, was the proverbial elephant in the room – she was married, he wasn’t. On that particular evening, her husband was working. Standing there face to face with a man who was not only a dear friend of the hostess, but who was instantly captivating to her, presented options not heretofore considered. What to do? Yield to temptation? Walk away and risk insulting this man who had done nothing but agree to attend a party? Leave unexpectedly and risk offending her best friend, the hostess, whose intention was only to offer a spot of distraction for her because she was alone at home? Far from being the sole proprietor of temptation, lust is merely the tip of the iceberg. We are tempted continually from choosing harsh words rather than kind ones to entertaining negative thoughts to ignoring our body’s natural ‘stop’ signal when eating. Take a moment now to River Region’s Journey • April 2012
pause, relax, and make a mental list of your own quiver of enticements. A bit overwhelming when considered collectively. Watchman Nee, Chinese Christian martyr, provides guidance on the subject when he writes, “According to the Bible, the mind of man is a battlefield where Satan and his evil spirits contend against the believer…Satan’s modus operandi is to introduce thoughts into the mind of a believer. Should they be accepted, Satan now has a footing for future operation in the mind of this one. For this reason, every vain idea, unproven theory, unknown thought, casually read line, and overheard word should be tested…We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:5) Passivity is to allow oneself to be moved by outside elements. A passive state is most advantageous to evil spirits on the prowl. It affords them the opportunity to occupy not only the believer’s mind, but his will and body as well.” Every moment of every day we are bombarded by stimuli. My pet name for it is ‘noise pollution’ and we could each offer unique descriptions of how it is manifested within our daily routines. How we choose to process said input is an outward reflection of our inner spiritual status, which brings us to our next test. In the next day or so, choose one hour. During that time, proceed as usual with one exception – be totally aware of all mental movement. Note each word, received or spoken; see and hear while filtering every particle through the above verse in 2 Corinthians. Ouch! Returning to our friend at the party… her choice was swift and deliberate. Encountering a temptation that ‘is…common to man,’ she opted for pheugo, which is Latin for “to flee from or away.” (Vines) Don’t just walk – RUN! 1Timothy 6:11 advises, But you, man of God, flee from all this… She excused herself, found her 38
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friend the hostess, thanked her for the invitation, and asked to never again be included when that particular person would be in attendance! Talk about a step-by-step employment of Scripture! Temptation encountered, God was faithful, a way out was provided. And notice that the verse does not say “if” you are tempted, but clearly says “when.” A.W. Tozer’s words aptly summarize our topic as he submits: “To want a thing, or feel that we want it, and then to turn from it because we see that it is contrary to the will of God is to win a great battle on a field larger than Gettysburg or Bunker Hill. To bring our desires to the cross and allow them to be nailed there with Christ is a good and a beautiful thing. To be tempted and yet to glorify God in the midst of it is to honor Him where it counts…It is possible, even in this sensual world with its emphasis on violence and immorality to turn those very influences in the direction of God’s promised victory. We are assured in the Word of God that we do not have to yield in weakness to the pull that would drag us down. When we see something that we know is wrong and therefore displeasing to God, we can react to it with a positive assurance as we say, ‘God helping me, I will be different from that!’ In that sense, the very sight of evil can drive us farther into the kingdom of God.” Elaine Britt, husband Tim, and teenage son Kevin reside in Montgomery, with son Bryan at UAH in Huntsville. She counts her family as a great blessing. By profession, Elaine is a 30-year-veteran Interior Decorator and owner of Carriage House Interiors. By God’s calling and to her great joy, she is a writer, whose published works include stories in A Cup of Comfort Devotionals; Lord, I Was Happy Shallow; and Heavenly Patchwork; one book, Messages, as well as various articles in several magazines and e-zines. For Advertising Information:
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
Community Calendar Christian Community Calendar Christian Ongoing Happenings
AGLOW International meets every third Thursday, 9:30 at the Montgomery House of Prayer. All women welcome to join together for praise, prayer and an anointed message. Contact mboudousquie@yahoo. com. Beacon Light Ministries, 1325 Bragg Street, offers weekday prayer and bible study at 12 noon, and “Solemn Assembly” prayer time every 4th Friday at 7:30 p.m. Call 334-262-8382 no later than 1 hour in advance for free transportation. Beacon Light Ministries’, Pastor Elder Betty Williams teaches Bible Study on Monday, 5:00 p.m., Rosa Parks Place Senior Apartments; Tuesday, 7:00 p.m., Twin Gates Community, 4216 Gateway Drive; and Thursday, 7:00 p.m. (when school is in session) Alabama State University Bessie Benson Hall (Girls Dorm). Beacon Light Ministries, Food Ministry is open on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday, 5:30-6:45 p.m. Please bring I. D. and Proof of Government Assistance. Capitol Heights UMC, 2000 Winona Ave., Montgomery offers Parenting Classes beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Thursdays. 264-2464. Christchurch, 8800 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, offers a Women’s Enrichment Bible Study led by Jeanne Dean on Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., in Canterbury Hall. All women are welcome. Childcare for ages birth-4 years is provided. Call 387-0566 x 201 for more info. Christchurch offers a men’s Bible study led by Fr. John-Michael van Dyke, on Thursday mornings on the 11th floor of Goode Medical Bldg, Jackson Hospital. Breakfast is served beginning at 6:45 a.m. and teaching begins at 7:15 a.m. Call 387-0566 x 201. Church of the Highlands meets each Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. downtown Montgomery in the MPAC theater located in the Renaissance Hotel, 201 Tallapoosa Street. Visit churchofthehighlands.com or call 1-205-980-5577. Chisholm Baptist Church, 2938 Lower Wetumpka Road, Montgomery, holds Sunday morning Bible study (9:30), Morning worship (10:45), Tuesday prayer breakfast (8:30) Wednesday evening prayer service (6 pm) and Senior Body and Soul Group (every 1st Tuesday at 1 pm). Email jbass9784@charter. net or call 262-6437. Dexter Avenue UMC, 301 Dexter Avenue, offers a Friday Christian Night Club with Ballroom Dancing every Friday at 6:30 P.M. Cost is $5 for a one hour lesson, devotional, and 3 hours of DJ music. People of all denominations are welcome. First Presbyterian Church, 9299 Vaughn Road, hosts Family Night every Wednesday beginning at 5:20 p.m. with supper, followed by a study on prayer. Everyone is welcome. For more information call (279-1372). First Presbyterian Church, 9299 Vaughn Road, hosts a Men’s Prayer Breakfast every Friday morning, 6 a.m. The Youth of First United Methodist Church, Montgomery every Wednesday night at 7:00 p.m. for Wednesday Night Live, a time of praise and worship
River Region’s Journey • April 2012
in “the attic”. Also, every Sunday night at 6:00 p.m. is MYF which includes a snack supper $3.00 followed by activities, small groups and lots of fun! Visit www. fumcmontgomery.org or call 334-834-8990. First United Methodist Church will host Terrific Tuesdays. Please come and join us for fellowship, a program and lunch. Terrific Tuesdays will meet each Tuesday in room 204 of Wesley Hall. Fellowship time will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by a program at 10:30 a.m. and lunch at 11:30 a.m. The cost of lunch is $2.00. Every fourth Tuesday the time will extend until 3:00 p.m. for bridge, games, and other activities in room 203 in Wesley Hall. For additional information please contact NeeNee Webb at 8348990. Good News @ Noon is an interdenominational Bible study, held at the First Baptist Community Ministries Building on Adams Street, Thursdays, at noon. Small cost for hot lunch. Call 272.1133. Hall Memorial CME Church, 541 Seibles Road, Montgomery, offers Bible Study Tuesdays at 5:30 P.M. and Wednesdays at 6: 30 P.M. For directions or information call 334-288-0577. Email HallMemorialCME1@aol.com or visit www.HallMemorialCME. blogspot.com. iConnect.coffeehouse provides a place for women to experience meaningful fellowship with women seeking genuine connection. Meetings will be held in the Atrium at Frazer UMC 3rd Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. For more info, call Frazer’s Women’s Ministry at 495-6391. Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, invites all to Wonderful Wednesdays starting with a $3.00 meal at 5:30 pm (RSVP 277-4213 by Monday noon), worship with eucharist 6:15-7:00 pm, and adult choir rehearsal and Catechism class for 7th9th graders at 7:00 pm. Please call for Wednesday schedule due to seasonal breaks. For information, call 277-4213. Mt. Gillard Missionary Baptist Church, 3323 Day Street, holds Wednesday Bible Study in the church Fellowship Hall and lasts for one hour. Please come and participate in roaming the Bible learning God’s word through teaching. The Rev. Henry M. Carnegie, Jr. is the teacher and pastor. Mid-day Bible Study begins each Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. Evening Bible Study begins each Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Call 233-8750. New Freedom Worship Center, 6004 –A East Shirley Lane, Apostle T. Briggs~ Pastor; Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. and Wednesday Night Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Open Door Christian Faith Church, 1601 Dewey St. Montgomery, offers Women’s Prayer Mondays at 5:00, Men’s prayer Wednesday at 5:00, followed by bible study at 6:00. Couples ministry held every 1st Wednesday of the month at 7:00. Pastor William Cromblin, and the Open Door Church family invites you to “come experience the move of God. For more info, call the church at 334-269-6498. Perry Hill UMC, 910 Perry Hill Rd, sponsors a Bluegrass Jam in the Church Fellowship Hall on the third Saturday of each month from 9AM - 12AM. All Bluegrass Artist plus Fans are invited to attend. Attendance is FREE. For information call Kathy Morrow@ 272-3174. 40
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Perry Hill UMC, 910 Perry Hill Rd, hosts a Wednesday Night Supper and Revive! program each week from 5:30pm til 7:00pm. Reservations are required by noon on the Monday prior to the supper. Cost is $4 per person or $12 per family. Call 334-272-3174 for more information or to make reservations. The River of Life Church, 116 County Road 40 East (Pine Level Community Center) Prattville. You are invited to “A Place of New Beginnings. Services are held each Sunday: Early Worship 9:15 a.m.; Sunday School 10:30 a.m.; Worship Service 11:00 a.m.; Evening Worship 5:00 p.m.; Wednesday: Adult Bible Study 6:00 p.m.; Teens, “The Genesis Project” 6:00 p.m.: Royal Rangers, Stars & Prims 6:00 p.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Nick Edwards invites you to “come experience God in a personal way, feel loved by all and know that you belong”. Call 334-657-0392 or visit www.theriveroflifechurch.net. Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road, offers S.N.A.G. (Sunday Nights About God!) This program starts at 5:00p.m. and ends at 6:30p.m. Childcare is provided for small groups until 7:00p.m. Don’t forget this program is available for all children! S-STOP, a commUNITY Bible study for Singles. Souls Strengthened Together for One Purpose. Psalm 46:10 “BE STILL and know that I am God.” Meets at Prattville Christian Academy on Sunday nights at 6 p.m. For info email sstop04@gmail.com. Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road, offers Wild & Wacky Wednesdays! Wednesday night supper starts at 5:15p.m. We will start checking children in at 6:00p.m. This program ends at 7:30p.m. and childcare is provided until 8:00p.m. for small group participants. Call 277.3037 for more info. St. Mark UMC, holds a Men’s Bible Study every Friday morning at 6:30 a.m., at the Arby’s at EastChase. Call 272.0009. Saint Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, 706 E. Patton Avenue, “Clothes Closet” is open to the public each Thursday morning from 10 a.m. – Noon. The Men of Saint Paul host a free Men’s Prayer Breakfast the Third Saturday of each month at 8 a.m. in the Church Fellowship Hall. The Men’s Prayer Breakfast is open to all men of all ages. Come and share your concerns and needs of our Men of today. For more information, please contact (334) 354-1897. Bible Study is held each Wednesday, 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Pastor Farrell J. Duncombe is the teacher and Senior Pastor of the church. Come and join us for Sunday School each Sunday at 9 a.m. and Morning Worship at 10 a.m. Need transportation, call (334) 264-7618. For info call 286.8577 or www.saintpaulamemontgomery.com. Women at The Well Ministry meet at Remnant Worship Center on Endover Street off of Court Street behind the Feed and Seed Store at 1:00pm every 1st and 3rd Saturday. We are women who desire and have a heart to see broken, crushed, hurting women be transformed through the one man who can fulfill their every need...JESUS...THE POTTER. All women of all denominations are welcome to come and share the Word of God together....to encourage, and build one another up through the words of our testimonies. Evangelist Linda McCall, 334-2201924 for more info. For Advertising Information:
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This Month Saturday, April 7
An OASIS 5K, 1-Mile Fun Run & Tot Trot will be held at 8 am in Millbrook. Proceeds from this race will benefit the missions and outreach programs of the Oasis Youth Ministry of Millbrook FUMC. The 5K will start at the parking lot of Millbrook First United Methodist Church. For a registration form go to www. mfumc.org, register on line at www.active.com (search keyword “oasis”) A map of the route can be found at www.mapmyrun.com/routes/ view/6510202. E-mail questions to mfumc. oasis5k@gmail.com.
Wednesday, April 18
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) is a great opportunity to hone your mothering skills, meet new friends, and learn new things while deepening your relationship with God. Come join us; free childcare is provided. First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. Call Andrea McGregor 799-7847 or Laura Forman 306-0352 for more information.
Saturday, April 21
Clothes4Souls Community Wide Clothing Collection, Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 6610 Vaughn Road, from 8:00 am – 1:00 pm. We will be accepting new or gently worn, clean clothing. These items should be clean and still in good shape. Worn clothing should not have holes should still be in
wearable condition. NEW clothes of any type are accepted. No shoes please. Call 334-3004835 or log onto to www.aldersgateumc.org for more details. Also, the Stop Hunger Now Food Packaging Event is same day, same time. We will be packaging 50,000 meals in the Community Activity Center of our church. If you would like to be a part of this event or if you would like to make a monetary donation please call 334- 300-4835 or log onto to www. aldersgateumc.org for more details.
April 27 and 28
Extraordinary Women Conference 2012, featuring Sarah Palin, Julie Clinton, Candace Cameron Blue, and musical guests MercyMe! Birmingham, AL. Call 1.800.526.8673 or visit www.EWomen.net for tickets!
Saturday, April 28
Young Meadows Presbyterian Church invites you to Big Daddy’s Barbecue & Biscuits Game at 5:30 p.m. Barbecue at Old Alabama Town Park; Baseball — 7:00 p.m. Biscuits Host Birmingham Barons at Riverwalk Stadium; $15 per person/$50 family max (includes t-shirt) **Deadline to Register: Sunday, April 15** Don’t Miss This Church-wide Event, Guests Are Invited – Reservations Are Required. For Information or To Register: Call the Church Office – (334) 244-1385 or email pmathis@ympca.org.
Thursday, May 3
The popular rock band Switchfoot will perform
at Samford University at 7 p.m. in Pete Hanna Center. Tickets are on sale now. The five-member group began with successes in the Christian rock scene before gaining mainstream recognition when its music was featured prominently in the 2002 movie A Walk to Remember. Their seventh studio album, Hello Hurricane, received a Grammy award in 2011 for Best Rock Gospel Album. All tickets are $16 and are general admission. Tickets may be purchased at: https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/team.asp?SponsorID=4517. For information, call (205) 726-2276.
Saturday, May 5
The 22nd Annual BBQ will be helping Frazer UMC send students to the Dominican Republic, Atlanta, Haiti and Ethiopia. You can do your part by purchasing your tickets for only $8 a plate or $5 a sandwich bag. The BBQ will run from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and you can dine in the Fellowship Hall or pick up your BBQ to go. We will once again make free deliveries to businesses wanting to treat their employees. Contact the Student Ministry office at 495-6409 for details. Also, Singles Missions Flea Market: Participate in one of three ways, all of which go to help Singles participate in missions: 1. Come shop from 7 to 1 the day of the BBQ and find a bargain; 2. Donate your stuff; bring it by the Singles office, or we’ll pick it up! 3. Rent a booth--15x20 space for $20. For donations or rentals call 495.6390. Please send your calendar events to deanne@ readjourneymagazine.com by the 12th of the month for FREE print.
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April 26, 2012 beginning at 6:30 p.m. At Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy, our goal is to equip students with the knowledge, skill and vision necessary to be effective leaders and servants for our Lord Jesus Christ.
Morningview Baptist Church • 125 Calhoun Road • 334.356.7788 • www.ccamontgomery.org Call 334.213.7940 today!
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
April 2012 ad_Layout 1 3/19/12 4:08 PM Page 1
“Glorify Your Son” John 17:1-5
To glorify involves putting the divine, holy “ nature of God on display for people to witness. Ironically, the cross, a most humiliating form of death, was the platform on which Jesus was glorified and where
He magnified His Father’s love.” - Dr. Henry Blackaby
Hear the Good News everyday on
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April 2012 • River Region’s Journey
Movie Reviews Reviews provided by MovieGuide: A Family Guide to Movies and Entertainment Ratings are based on production quality and moral acceptability. See details below. ***Reviews do not necessarily reflect views of the publishers of Montgomery’s Journey.
Wrath of the Titans
October Baby Quality: **** Moral Acceptability: +4 (Exemplary) Starring: Rachel Hendrix, Jason Burkey, Jasmine Guy, John Schneider Genre: Drama Audience: Older children to adults Rating: PG-13 Content: Very strong Christian, moral worldview where in Christ you are forgiven dealing with the tough topic of abortion; one obscured possible obscenity; descriptions of abortion; girl and boy share a room but nothing happens and boy and girl embrace; no nudity; suggestions of alcohol use at beach party; no smoking; and, breaking and entering, hints of hippie activity, disobedience to father but it’s resolved. In OCTOBER BABY, a teenage girl learns she was born from a botched abortion. Angry at her adoptive parents and feeling unwanted, Hannah travels with her friend Jason to Mobile, Alabama to find her birth mother. She discovers the hospital on her birth certificate has closed. Therefore, she breaks into the empty hospital and is arrested. The police sergeant knows the nurse who signed the birth certificate. He lets Hannah go. Through the nurse, she finds her birth mother, but her mother is now a successful lawyer and still denies her. All of Hanna’s anger focuses on her adoptive parents when her father comes to get her. Only the love of Christ can help Hanna overcome and heal these painful wounds. OCTOBER BABY is well made in terms of direction and acting. There are a few script flaws, but the editing is superb. Once the script comes together, the movie takes off and becomes incredibly compelling. OCTOBER BABY has a very strong Christian, moral worldview that’s anti-abortion. It demonstrates the forgiveness that can only be found in Jesus Christ. The subject matter requires caution for younger children, however.
Quality: *** Moral Acceptability: -1 (Caution) Starring: Sam Worthington, Ralph Fiennes, Liam Neeson, Rosamund Pike, Edgar Ramirez, Toby Kebbell, Bill Nighy, Danny Huston Genre: Sci-fi/Fantasy Audience: Older children and adults Rating: PG-13 Content: Strong, mixed pagan worldview with strong humanist and Romantic elements mixed with strong false religion and moderate moral elements; light Christian, redemptive values espoused during strong scene of forgiveness, which solves a major plot problem; three light obscenities and no profanities; much fantastical violence throughout with light blood and gore, very suspenseful, includes stabbings, one impaling, two instances of very intense fighting and killing of scary monsters; one sexual reference to seducing a mermaid and light romantic kiss; brief upper male nudity; and, deception, revenge, envy, resentment, blackmail, and dysfunctional family portrayal. WRATH OF THE TITANS is a spectacular fantasy adventure. The hero Perseus is the half-human son of the god Zeus. Perseus is caught between a strong sense of duty and a deep desire for a peaceful life with his son. With two other characters, Perseus sets out on a wild, perilous adventure to save Zeus. Hades and Ares have kidnapped Zeus. They have restrained Zeus so that Kronos, the evil father of Zeus and Hades, can drain his power and set himself free. Perseus must save the world from this dark, merciless enemy, who hungers for vengeance. WRATH OF THE TITANS has an underdeveloped, less than convincing plot. Sam Worthington is excellent as the heroic Perseus, however. The special effects are also impressive. Thus, the entertainment quality is high. Sadly, this is overshadowed by a series of dialogues and rivalries that sometimes seem rushed. Belief in an afterlife, faith, heroism, and forgiveness are among the potentially positive elements. However, they are cast in the light of the movie’s pagan worldview. This causes WRATH OF THE TITANS to fall short of biblical standards, so caution is advised for older children.
The previous reviews are a selected sample of informative reviews from MOVIEGUIDE: A FAMILY GUIDE TO MOVIES AND ENTERTAINMENT, a syndicated feature of Good News Communications, Inc. To subscribe to MOVIEGUIDE which includes a complete set of at least 10 reviews of the latest movies as well as many informative articles, please visit our web site at www.movieguide.org or write or call:”MOVIEGUIDE,” P.O. Box 190010, Atlanta, GA 31119 (800) 899-6684. What the ratings mean: Production Quality: (1 to 4 stars) Moral Acceptability: -4 (Abhorrent), -3 (Excessive), -2 (Extreme Caution), -1 (Caution), +1 (Wholesome), +2 (Good), +3 (Moral), +4 (Exemplary)
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