River Region's Journey December 2015 by KeepSharing

Sunday, Dec. 13 • 4pm & 7PM Frazer United Methodist Church • frazerumc.org

committed

a night of music with special guests Winners of NBC’s “The Sing-Off”

MORE CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Frazer Church: find hope, Follow Jesus • Sunday worship 8, 9:30 & 11AM 6000 atlanta Hwy. Montgomery • frazerumc.org • 334.272.8622 Pike Road Campus Coming Feb. 7, 2016 • Meeting in Pike Road School

Volume 17, Issue 7

Feature Articles

DECEMBER 2 0 1 5 Columns page 2

page 12

Publisher’s Note

Faith @ Work

Jason Watson

Meet Tommy McKinnon, System Director of Marketing and Communication at Baptist Health. You’ll discover how his faith changed dramatically as a young husband and father, and how he walks out his commitment to Christ in the workplace and with his family.

page 4

Pastor's Perspective Allen Newton, Saint James United Methodist Church

page 14

Women Arising Pastor Kemi Searcy

page 19

Pondering the Journey

page 16

Sam Whatley

Inner Peace on Earth

page 22

The Intersection

by Victor Parachin

Find 8 ways to celebrate the true reason for the season by focusing on the spiritual realities connected to Christmas.

Bob Crittenden

page 32

Counselor’s Corner Rebecca Morris, LPC

page 20

page 36

River Region Christmas Events

Dave $ays Dave Ramsey

Celebrate Christmas with these special church events happening in our area!

In Every Issue page 6

page 24

Books to Read

Ministry Spotlight:

page 8

Flatline Movement

Around Our Community page 28

by Laura Jean Bell

Dewayne Rembert felt a call on his life to leave his secure employment and begin working with young people to impact them for Christ. Find out his story and the exciting things Flatline is doing in our city through music! 1

Support Groups page 34

Christian Community Calendar December 2015

River Region’s Journey

Our Mission... We believe the Good News concerning the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is worth sharing with our friends and neighbors in the River Region. Each month we deliver this life-changing message to the centers of activity across our community in a user-friendly and relevant way to empower and equip all those seeking to grow closer to God. Join us in this mission by sharing a copy with your neighbor or by becoming an advertising partner starting next month.

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@readjourneymagazine.com

Publisher

Jason Watson jason@readjourneymagazine.com

Associate Publisher Savannah Bowden

Research Editor Wendy McCollum

Contributing Writers Laura Jean Bell Tim Challies Bob Crittenden Pastor Allen Newton Rev. Victor Parachin Dave Ramsey Kemi Searcy Rebecca Morris, LPC Sam Whatley

Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson ads@readjourneymagazine.com (334) 213-7940 ext 703

Ad Design

Tim Welch, Welch Designs

Distribution Team Kristy Brennan Wendy McCollum Chris Mitchell, Manager Manzie Moore Richard Ward Lesa Youngblood

From the Publisher Putting together each issue of Journey is like a puzzle. As the next issue’s deadline approaches each member of our team begins to bring their pieces together to construct something very meaningful. Of course, I know what each issue will contain, but my favorite part of the process is flipping through the finalized magazine we’ve created. It’s then that I’m reminded again of the powerful resource Journey is in our community. This issue in your hands is created with the goal of producing eternally significant changes in your life. We’ve been praying for this moment, when YOU would pick up this issue and be exposed to God’s plans and purposes for your life. Something bigger than “what’s for dinner” or “what’s on TV” is happening here on earth. God is at work redeeming His creation. That’s why we celebrate Christmas. Christmas is the celebration of Jesus. Not as an icon of niceness and gift-giving, but as the Savior for all those who place their trust in Him. Jesus, God’s Son, left Heaven and became a man on a mission. His mission was to defeat the curse of sin by never sinning. He did just that! Then, in His perfection, He offered Himself as a worthy sacrifice for all of us who aren’t perfect, by dying a sinner’s death on the cross. John the Baptist foretold of this in John 1:29: “The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” Jesus died a sacrificial death, but death couldn’t hold Him. He arose on the third day. Jesus, the Messiah, now invites us to live in His victory over sin and death by placing our faith in His work and making Him the Lord of our lives. Even still, we wait for the day when we will reign in the New Heavens and New Earth with Jesus, where there will be no more death, crying or pain (read Revelation 21). Yes, we all have lives to live. We work, we raise children, we watch football, we make friends, we do lots of things. But don’t miss the one bigger story of all our lives. The one that tells us why we’re here, our true purpose and that life goes on beyond the final date chiseled into our headstones. How that story shows up in our lives is why we print Journey magazine each month. Please, as you read through this issue, ask God to show you how to live according to His plans and purposes. For some of you that may begin with reconsidering who the Jesus of Christmas truly is. Have you placed your hope in the work Jesus did to offer you salvation? If not, confess your sin and trust in Jesus, then follow Him by living a holy life rooted in the continual grace He offers...as we learn and grow in this new life. I leave you with the words the angels spoke to the shepherds in Luke 2, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Merry Christmas!

River Region’s Journey is published monthly by Keep Sharing, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123. For information, call 334-213-7940. River Region’s Journey is copyrighted 2015 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.

River Region’s Journey

December 2015

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Founded Upon God’s Word At Christchurch, Holy Scripture serves as the final authority for our teaching and preaching. Indeed, over the course of three years, almost the entire Bible is read aloud and preached upon.

Warm and Loving

Liturgically Joyful At Christchurch worship involves the entire congregation, as we offer God praise, thanksgiving and adoration using worship traditions that can be traced back to the earliest days of the Church. Our worship is not designed to entertain us, but to honor the true “audience” of worship, the Lord!

By God’s grace and through His Spirit, the people of Christchurch enjoy the richness and joy of being a true family. We’d love for you to become a part of us! Regardless of who you are, you will always find a home at Christchurch.

Committed to Mission The people of Christchurch respond to God’s Word by going out into the world, to places like Uganda, Guatemala and Montgomery, proclaiming the good news of Jesus and joyfully serving as His hands and feet!

Sundays: 9:30 a.m. Worship 11:00 a.m. Christian Education for All Ages Weekly: Discipleship and fellowship opportunities abound

Find us on Facebook and visit us at www.christchurchXP.net 3

December 2015

River Region’s Journey

Pastor’s Perspective

Allen Newton, Saint James United Methodist Church

How to Have the Perfect Christmas Every year, millions of dollars and countless hours are spent trying to obtain the perfect Christmas. Even so, after all of the presents are unwrapped and the tree is taken down, we are left with the emptiness of unpaid credit cards and bare bank accounts. And we wonder why Christmas wasn’t all we hoped it would be. Try as hard as we might, we can’t purchase or possess the perfect Christmas. There’s a story about a little boy who was preparing for Christmas. He wrote Santa a letter: “Dear Santa, I have been a good little boy this year. Please bring me a new bicycle.” As he began to evaluate his letter he realized that maybe he had not been so good. The fights with his sister, the times he disobeyed his parents, the trick he had

played on a friend kept haunting him. So he started his letter to Santa again. “Dear Santa, if you will bring me a new bike for Christmas, I promise I will be good the whole next year!” Once again, as he considered this pledge, he realized it was impossible. So he wrote another letter, “Dear Santa, if you bring me a new bike I promise to be good for a whole week!” After further consideration he realized this was not going to happen either. Suddenly, he had an idea. He jumped up and ran into the living room where the Christmas Nativity scene was set up under the tree. He reached in, grabbed the baby Jesus from the manger, ran to his room, opened his sock drawer and stuffed baby Jesus into the socks at the very back of the drawer. Then he wrote this letter: “Dear Santa, if you ever want to see the baby Jesus again, you better bring me a bike!” Ministering to Suicidal Desperation Ministering to Suicidal Desperation This is the story TM Soul Shop Trains Church Leaders to Save Lives of all of us. We try so In an effort to stem the rising tide of suicide in the River Region, The Samaritan Counseling Center, Inc. is bringing Soul Shop to our community. Soul Shop is a suicide prevention and recovery training and includes a daylong training session hard to get Christspecifically designed to train church leaders, clergy, program staff, lay ministers, office staff, and faith-based therapists to detect the signs of someone contemplating suicide mas right. We spend and possibly save their life. Additionally, Soul Shop trains Church leaders how to minister to surviving family members after a suicide. money, time, and enSponsored by ergy trying to make it First United Methodist Church-Montgomery all perfect. But deep Prattville First United Methodist Church down, no matter how Grace Pointe Church of Christ hard we try, we can St. John’s Episcopal Church never really make it all we want it to be because we are not perfect. All the Workshop Dates and Times To learn more about Soul Shop coming to Montgomery, trying in the world February 1, 2016 6:30 -8:00 pm please contact Open to the public will not give us the peace, perfection and February 2, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The Samaritan : Specifically for Clergy, Church Staff, Lay Ministers purpose in life we are Counseling Center, Inc. and other Faith Related Organizations 2011 Zelda Road looking for. Location Montgomery, AL 36106 First United Methodist Church This need is not 334-262-7787 # 202 2416 West Cloverdale Park a surprise to God. He Montgomery, Alabama, 36106 cholding@tsccenter.org knew we couldn’t be good enough to live in peace with him,

SOUL SHOP TM

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ourselves or one another. So over 2000 years ago on a hillside outside of Bethlehem, the angels of heaven announced the mission of the Messiah in a manger. “…Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:10-12 This is the message of Christmas! We can’t purchase perfection because it has already been bought for us by God. He has given us a Messiah, a Savior. This baby boy born in Bethlehem would grow to be a man. He came from heaven to earth to show us the love of God. He would be suspended between heaven and earth to extend to us God’s perfect grace. On the cross, Jesus would make peace with God on our behalf. The Messiah did not come to give us what we deserve. He came to give us what we need: God’s love, forgiveness, freedom and purpose for our life. It is a gift from God to you in Christ. Try as you might, you will not purchase holiday perfection. It has already been procured for you. When we invite the presence of Christ into our heart’s and homes this Christmas, He brings God’s perfect peace and fulfillment. This is the “Good News that brings great joy to all people.” May you claim it as yours and share with others this Advent season. Allen Newton is pastor of Saint James United Methodist Church at 9045 Vaughn Road in Montgomery.

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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.

Join us for the Dream Women’s Conference as we discover how to live into the dreams God has for us right now! Experience authentic worship, life-changing teaching and deep fellowship with other women seeking the Lord’s heart. Come learn what desires He has placed in you and be inspired to dream big!

saint james

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 needs to be in agreement with our Statement of Faith

December 2015

River Region’s Journey

The Great Christ Comet by Colin Nicholl What do we do about that pesky star? Inseparable from the narrative of Jesus’ birth is the “star of wonder, star of night / Star with royal beauty bright” that we sing about in our Christmas carols (and, of course, read about in the book of Matthew). What was that star? Where did it come from? If it was so unusual and magnificent that it could lead wise men from the East all the way to Bethlehem, why don’t we read about it in other sources? That star is the subject of Colin Nicholl’s new book The Great Christ Comet. And, as you may surmise from the title, he does not believe it was a star at all. Before I discuss the content of the book, let me say a few words about the volume itself. The Great Christ Comet is a beautiful work. It is a slightly oversized hardcover that is well-illustrated, holds all kinds of fascinating charts and drawings, and is a joy to read. It will prove a popular choice for a Christmas gift this year, I am sure, and deservedly so. Over the years, the star of Bethlehem has been the subject of endless speculation. The most prevalent views have been that the star was the triple conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in Pisces; that it was Jupiter; that it was a nova or supernova; River Region’s Journey

December 2015

or that it was a miraculous star created by God for the purpose. Colin Nicholl, a Bible scholar, determined that he would get to the bottom of this star, and found all of those options unsatisfying. As a Biblical scholar with a high regard for the historical credentials of the Scripture text, I have felt constrained to leave my comfort zone and wade into the field of astronomy in order to follow up Biblical leads concerning the Star. Doing so has been stretching and uncomfortable at times, but has also been incredibly rewarding and invigorating. In this book I present the fruits of my research—what I believe is a decisive breakthrough in the quest for the historical Star of Bethlehem. His desire to solve the mystery of the star led him deeper and deeper into the field of astronomy until he was able to satisfactorily reconcile it with the biblical account. “In this book I offer what I am convinced is the solution to the age-old mystery of the Star of Bethlehem. What I propose is rooted in careful consideration of the relevant Biblical material and is, I believe, able to explain everything said about the Star in a natural and compelling way and in harmony with current astronomical knowledge.” His conclusion is that the Star of Bethlehem was actually a comet. The Bible allows such a position, as the word for “star” is wide enough to account for a comet; astronomy demands such a posi6

tion, as there is no other satisfactory way to account for the phenomena the Bible describes. This conclusion comes only with painstaking work in both Bible scholarship and astronomy. Nichols slowly and methodically makes his case, beginning with the biblical evidence, and then looking to the heavens. He describes what comets are, shows how ancient people interpreted them, gives examples of great comets through history, and tells how and why they are sometimes visible from earth. He ultimately shows how a comet could have been a sign to Babylonian wise men, how it could have alerted them to the birth of a Messiah, and how it could have led them first to the city of Jerusalem and then to a single home in Bethlehem. But he goes further than that. He also ties in passages like Numbers 24:17, Isaiah 7:14 and 9:2, and Revelation 12:1–5 to show how they may just have predicted this very phenomenon. Speaking personally, I found Nicholl’s evidence and conclusions quite compelling. He makes a strong case and provides abundant evidence. He makes it clear that he is not a mere enthusiast in either of his fields of expertise, but someone who has dedicated his life to careful research. Yet I also came away with a slight sense of caution. I have only the most rudimentary knowledge of astronomy (I can find the moon on a clear night, but not much more than that) and am underequipped to pass judgment on his conclusions. However, because he so carefully charts his journey and the evidence he has collected, I know it will not be long before others take up the challenge. I will be interested to see how his work is interpreted by those with more knowledge in the field. With all that said, I found The Great Christ Comet a unique and uniquely interesting book. I am glad I read it, and freely recommend it to you.

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River Regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Journey

The Journey Continues... Tim Tebow

Breaking Free From an Unhealthy Lifestyle

Women’s Symposium/January 16 Are you ready to BREAK FREE? Join us to learn: How to live HAPPY when your world is turned upside down • How to find and keep strong sister friends • How to feast abundantly on life and overcome the $2 Tuesday mentality • How to calm your mind, body, and spirit with Christian yoga • How to eat well from the garden and break free from being overfed and undernourished • How to ease your aches and cleanse your home with essential oils Hosted by Landmark Church, in the Life Center, from 9 am to 3 pm Call Terry Dees, (334) 233-0646 or Aleah Goode (334) 221-5340 to register or visit 1140balance.com/lifeunchained.

The Cancer Wellness Foundation is pleased to announce “The Journey Continues...Tim Tebow” on January 16, 2016, at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. Guests will enjoy a special evening of engagement with Tim Tebow, ESPN SEC Network Analyst. By the end of his college career, Tebow had already won two NCAA Football Championships, earned the Davey O’Brien Award as the nation’s best quarterback, and was the first sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy. In his first professional season, he led the Broncos to their first playoff game in five years and went on to play for the New York Jets. The event will be held at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center (201 Tallapoosa Street, downtown Montgomery). For general admission tickets: Call MPAC 334-481-5100 or www.mpaconline.org The following seats do not include VIP Passes: Balcony $60 Loge $89; Mezzanine $117 Orchestra $174 For all in attendance, the evening includes:Silent Auction in the Atrium, Tim Tebow’s talk, Live Auction with Tebow of sports items autographed by Tebow Sponsorship Packages with VIP Reception Passes are still available. A limited number of individual VIP Passes ($400 each) are available by calling Lucile Waller at 334-273-2279. All proceeds benefit the Cancer Wellness Foundation. For information visit www.cancerwellnessfoundation.org. Individual VIP Passes include: VIP Reception (photo with Tebow) and Orchestra Level Seating The Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama, a non-profit 501c3 organization, is thankful to our sponsors and those in attendance on January 16th. Your generosity will enable us to continue our efforts in helping local cancer patients.

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Soul Shop™: Suicide Prevention Training February 1, 2016 6:30-8 pm (Open to the public) February 2, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. (specifically for Clergy, Church Staff, and Lay Ministers) Hosted by The Samaritan Counseling Center, Inc. and held at First UMC, 2416 West Cloverdale Park, in Montgomery Soul Shop™ Trains Church Leaders to Save Lives In an effort to stem the rising tide of suicide in the River Region, The Samaritan Counseling Center, Inc. is bringing Soul Shop™ to our community. Soul Shop™ is a suicide prevention training and includes a daylong training session specifically designed to train church leaders, clergy, program staff, lay ministers, office staff, and faith-based therapists to detect the signs of someone contemplating suicide and possibly save their life. Additionally, Soul Shop™ trains Church leaders how to minister to surviving family members after a suicide. Please join First United Methodist Church-Montgomery, First United Methodist ChurchPrattville and Grace Pointe Church in sponsoring this important workshop for Clergy, Church staff, lay ministers, and other faith related institutions. BestMinds,LLC, is a ministry engaged in helping people deal with difficult life situations, with a specific focus on suicidal desperation. Owner and President J. Russell Crabtree has trained thousands of persons in developing awareness and intervention skills. His book, A Second Day, a Hopeful Journey Out of Suicidal Thinking, chronicles his own personal struggle with suicide. He developed Soul Shop™ specifically to help leaders in faith communities address those impacted by suicidal desperation. His goal is to equip the leaders of 20,000 persons by the year 2020. To learn more please contact us: The Samaritan Counseling Center, 2911 Zelda Road, Montgomery, AL 36106. Call 334-262-7787 or nthomas@tsccenter.org. River Region’s Journey

December 2015

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Dream Women’s Conference at Saint James UMC January 22-23. Dream Women’s Conference featuring: award-winning curriculum developer, best selling books author, and co-founder of Messenger International Lisa Bevere, and world renowned christian musician, Christy Nockles! This event is going to sell out fast so register NOW online or in our church lobby, 9045 Vaughn Road! Call 294-4052 or visit itickets.com.

Christmas Begins with Christ The 8th Annual Eclectic Christmas walking tours begin December 1-8. This event will take place at the Falk Farm. Located at 1733 Claude Road Eclectic AL, 36024. It is just south of Eclectic on AL Highway 63. The 6 and 8 o’clock time slots on each production night are handicap accessible. Reservations are suggested and may be made by calling 334.578.4846. Email: reservations@ aneclecticministry.org or by visiting www. aneclecticministry.org. Time slots are scheduled in 15-minute increments. *Admission is free,.

Candlelight Harpsichord Chamber Concert December 2, 6:30 p.m. at Christchurch, 8800 Vaughn Road. You are invited to a free concert of sacred and secular music. The 45-minute performance will feature instrumental and vocal pieces performed by the church’s chancel choir and soloists from the church, as well as outside professionals. The free concert in the church’s sanctuary will begin at 6 p.m. Reception to follow in Canterbury Hall. Reception tickets will be available by calling (334) 387.0566, ext. 203. Please visit www. christchurchxp.net for more details. 9

December 2015

River Region’s Journey

College Fair at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Begin the college selection process! The College Fair is an opportunity to speak with representatives from over 40 invited colleges and universities. There will be public and private, four-year and two-year, large and small, liberal arts and vocational colleges represented as well as the military. Also presented will be a number of workshops on “Financial Aid” and “Transitioning From High School To College.” PILGRIM REST MISSIONARY BAPTIST FELLOWSHIP HALL 1550 E Washington Ave, Montgomery, AL Saturday, January 30, 2016, 9 am-12 pm FREE Admission. For more information, please contact Dr. Martha W. Pettway Email: PRMBC.CollegeDay@gmail.com Phone: 334.669.9983

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December 2015

Holy Spirit Moving at Success Unlimited Academy The Holy Spirit is front and center at Success Unlimited. Thanks to Susan Alred and the administration, Jesus is the center of it all. Many children’s lives are being touched through the life changing ‘Good News’ of Jesus, and God’s awesome salvation plan. Not only are the students’ lives being changed, the staff and everyone involved in the school can sense a mighty work being done throughout the school. Approximately 30 children have either given their lives to the Lord or reaffirmed their walk in faith with Jesus. Thanks be to God for the Kingdom is ever advancing. Each morning school starts with a school wide meeting where devotionals are given by different teachers. Every Thursday morning, Chapel service is rocking out with unbelievable praise and worship music from a student led band called Warrior. The presence of the Lord is undeniable as students and faculty are free to lift their hands up and sing songs of praise to Jesus. It is not uncommon for the Holy Spirit to move and minister to the student body and touch lives throughout the service. Teachers pray for students and students pray for teachers.

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Frazer Outreach—Pike Road School Leadership Summit Frazer UMC had a unique opportunity recently to minister to the 7th and 8th graders who attend the new Pike Road School. While teachers attended a conference in Montgomery, school leaders took the middle school students to see a showing of the movie, “Woodlawn”. This is a christian movie based on the true story of integrating a high school football team in Alabama. After the movie, the students came to Frazer for a mini leadership summit—they enjoyed lunch provided by Zaxby’s and then broke out into smaller sessions to hear from various speakers sharing their experiences of overcoming adversity. Angela Hampton was one of the speakers, she teaches at Pike Road and volunteers as a 1st grade Sunday School teacher at Frazer!

Church Missions Yard Sale Aldersgate United Methodist Church, Christian Activity Center, 6610 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. December 5th, 7am - 10am, Rain or Shine. Great items include: Furniture, children’s clothing and toys, adult clothing, coats, housewares, kitchenwares, books, Christmas decorations and so much more. Everything must go. All proceeds benefit the 2016 short-term mission trip to Ecuador.

Email your community or ministry news to deanne@readjourneymagazine.com by the 15th of the month! We will share it with our readers at no cost!

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River Region’s Journey

RRJ: What is your position at Baptist Health and what does it entail? Tommy: As the System Director of Marketing and Communications at Baptist Health, I oversee all strategic marketing, communication and brand management efforts for our health system. It’s an extraordinarily fastpaced, challenging role that has enabled me to build strong relationships in every level of the organization and throughout the community. RRJ: Is it hard to mix corporate life with your Christian life? Tommy: I’m very fortunate to work for a faith-based organization that maintains a 52-year mission founded on loving and caring for others just as Christ would. Our mission sets the tone of our workdays, including meetings that begin with prayer, daily system-wide devotions and career paths devoted to serving others. I’ve worked in margin-focused environments before in which one’s faith never surfaced. I could not ask for a more loving and supportive team and workplace than at Baptist Health. RRJ: You had parents who taught you about Christ and you were active in church, but your faith drastically changed in your 30’s. Can you tell us what happened? Tommy: During my 20’s, I had simply turned the volume down on God. Sadly, I was totally focused on me, my career and my personal goals. As a result, my relationship with my wife, Sandy, began to suffer. But I began to hear from God at 30 and that still, small voice told me I needed to change. He took my family on a journey from Birmingham to Montgomery, a place we never envisioned as a destination, but one that has now become home. Through strong relationships in church, at work and among neighbors, God--time and again--pushed my spiritual capacities in studying the Bible, sharing my faith and encouraging others whenever possible. He molded an imperfect man to become a spiritual leader within my family, as an Elder at Centerpoint Fellowship and within my workplace. River Region’s Journey

December 2015

RRJ: Even though Baptist provides an environment that fosters the Christian faith what are some specific personal challenges that you have to intentionally seek out God’s grace to overcome? Tommy: Well, we’re all imperfect regardless of our faith, and with that comes sin. My personal sin has often manifested itself in pride and selfishness. God has taught me great humility over the years by allowing me to fail and learn from my mistakes. As a result, God strengthened my faith by allowing me to put all trust, all hope and all effort into pursuing His will over mine. RRJ: You clearly strive to be the same person at work that you are at church. I know that’s the case in your home as well. What are some practical ways you love and equip your family with God’s grace and His purposes? Tommy: Our family of five, like most, is constantly pulled in competing directions for school, work and extracurricular activities. 12

As a result, my wife and I intentionally try to create opportunities for our children to hear from God each day. While we don’t always have the chance to eat dinner together, when we do, we end by reading a short devotion and praying for acquaintances, friends and family we know are in need. Sandy and I help lead our church’s youth group, where we get the chance to interact with our children within a discipleship environment. Additionally, each June for the past three years, our family has participated in a mission trip to Ensenada, Mexico through Centerpoint Fellowship and Yugo Ministries. This annual trip has been an incredibly beneficial experience for our family unit, enabling Sandy and I to truly model Christ’s love to our children by building a home for a family in need and serving a community in a culture very different from our own. Through these trips, it is our hope that our children understand the importance of loving others unconditionally, looking for opportunities to give of themselves daily and answering God’s call upon their lives to boldly stand as servant leaders in a broken world. Sandy and I have experienced no greater joy than working alongside our children as peers—rather than as parents—in service to God and others. RRJ: What are the Christian resources that you consistently take advantage of in order to fulfill your calling to live in and through Christ? Tommy: I strongly believe in studying the Word, ongoing prayer throughout the day, listening to worship music and having an accountability partner. I make a practice of reading often, meditating on the message and asking God what he wants me to learn from it. As a result, my prayer life is fueled by my reading and maintained as a day-long conversation with God. To keep me on track, I meet weekly with an accountability partner. It’s a cherished time to talk like men, gently correct, if needed, and support each other through life. All of these resources are fine on their own, but together, they provide a sustainable means for me to diminish my selfish motivations, focus on helping others and constantly seek God in everything I do. Tommy McKinnon is married to Sandy and they have three children.

It’s not just your joints that are suffering.

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December 2015

River Region’s Journey

Esteeming Yourself:

Seeing What God Sees

“I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Marvelous are your works, And that my soul knows very well.” Psalm 139:14 A story is told about a kindergarten teacher who wanted to teach her class about self-esteem. The teacher asked that everyone who thought they were dummies to stand up. She waited a moment, no one stood, and the teacher was pleasantly surprised. Finally, a little boy stood up in the back of the room. The teacher asked, “Jimmy, do you really think you are a dummy?” Jimmy replied, “No, I don’t. I just didn’t want you to be standing there all by yourself.” This story brings a smile to our faces, but we do face a similar question that was posed to those children. What do we think of ourselves? A healthy degree of self-care is never a selfish act; it is simply good stewardship of the most precious thing God has given the world: “You.” The Intelligent Designer crafted you with care and love, therefore belittling or denigrating oneself is an affront to His intelligence. Low self-esteem and lack of confidence has hindered many people from contributing to society, and thereby failing to fulfill the will of the Lord. God permitted the Israelites to go spy out the Land of Canaan, their promised home, to see its fruitfulness, and to ready them for possession. Twelve men were sent, one from each tribe. Two came with a good report that the land was prosperous, while the other 10 brought an evil report of the land devouring its own inhabitants. The ten saw themselves as grasshoppers, and as a result, the rest of River Region’s Journey

December 2015

the Israelites then perceived themselves as powerless, puny insects. (See Deut. 1:22; Num. 13:1) Wait a minute! These were the children of Israel, God’s chosen generation, His royal priesthood, His peculiar people. God had destroyed Egypt, the then superpower, and opened the Red Sea for them to walk on dry ground. What were they thinking? Though He had shown them many miracles, when they came up against giants, they failed to see how valuable they were to God. Instead, they became cowards who saw themselves as nothing. Stop looking down on yourself, Sister! Lift your chin high and realize you are wonderfully and fearfully made. If you don’t feel good about yourself, no one will.

Six Indicators of Low Self-Esteem a. Antisocial behavior b. Depression c. Eating Disorder d. Anxiety e. Low self-expectation f. An unwillingness to pray

How to Increase Your Self-Esteem “As a man thinks, so is he,” says Proverbs 23:7. Our thoughts, feelings, and opinions make up who we are. Therefore low self-esteem isn’t a permanent state. Our minds can be changed, depending on the way we think over time. We need to dwell on the word of God and the Holy Spirit, to help us see our worth through God’s perspective. Here are some action points to consider:

1. YOU ARE VALUABLE. If you had been the only sinner needing salvation, He would have come to die for you. He loves you that much. It took the price of the sinless blood of Jesus Christ to atone for our sins. How can we look at ourselves as nothing? 14

2. CHANGE WHAT YOU CAN, TRUST GOD WITH THE REST. Concentrating on solutions and positive thinking is the best thing you can do for your esteem. If you are overweight, instead of looking down on yourself, do what you can to lose the weight. If you are plagued with financial troubles, find a better job, start a business, or go back to school. Connect with people who are already where you want to be. Use every means available: Internet, books, videos, etc.

3. SEEK HEALING. It could have been spousal abuse or parental neglect that first wrecked your esteem. If so, ask the Lord to help you to forgive, let go of the hurt, and move on.

4. ALTER YOUR MENTAL IMAGE. Figure out why you see yourself the way you do, then change your selfperception. Ask God to highlight Scripture verses that speak to what your image truly is. Use your mental skills to re-imagine yourself.

5. MAINTAIN AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE. How often do you stop to list the things for which you are thankful? The Israelites practiced thankfulness in their many festivals, recounting what God had done for them. This is important because God knows that sometimes we will be afflicted, hindered, or come against difficult situations. At that point we need to be reminded of how good He has been to us in previous situations. Keeping a grateful attitude will awaken faith in your heart and help you esteem yourself in the best way possible, because YOU ARE THE BEST!

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December 2015

River Regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Journey

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by Victor Parachin Rosa, speaking with her best friend, laments: “Sometime in early December I begin to feel it – seasonal insanity! Too much expense. Too many parties. Too much food. Too commercial. Too exhausting. This month I feel little joy but large stress. Is this really what the Christmas holidays are all about?” she asks. Of course, that’s not what Christmas is all about. Generating true inner peace during the holiday is simply a matter of taking charge and making the decision to focus on the true reason for the season. Here are eight steps to a less stressful, more spiritual holiday.

1. Commit yourself to having a spiritual holiday. “The holy season is a profound and powerful time to commit ourselves to new beginnings, to start new practices, to choose again what we want planted in our heart for the coming year,” notes Susan L. Taylor, an editor and author. She learned this truth during a time when the holidays filled her with a “longing – not for things, but for a spiritual experience of the season.” Taylor was tired of stressful holidays which left River Region’s Journey

December 2015

her “feeling excited but exhausted, full yet empty, surrounded by family but lonely.” So she committed herself to find ways of being at peace with herself, her family, to feel greater love and joy, and to have a deeper connection with the meaning of the season. As a result, her holidays have become a highly anticipated season. Now, she invites others to join her in intentionally choosing “peace and joy and making a point to express love in ways that go deeper than the material gifts we may give. Let’s practice kindness and forgiveness and have compassion for the folks who try our patience the most. Let’s love when it isn’t easy. Let’s open our hearts.”

2. Be like Mary. Though Mary was a frightened, single mother, she chose to nurture the life growing within her. Be like Mary and nurture the spiritual life growing with you. Paul described this as the “Christ in you” (Colossians 1:27). Use the season and it’s ample opportunities to permit Christ to grow and enlarge in your life. Bishop Fulton J. Sheen, often reminded people to let “God do in your soul what Mary let Him do to her body, namely, let Christ be formed in you...As He was physically formed in her, so He wills to 16

be spiritually formed in you. If you knew He was seeing through your eyes, you would see in every fellowman a child of God. If you knew that He worked through your hands they would bless all the day through...If you knew that He wants to use your mind, your will, your fingers, and your heart, how different you would be.”

3. Put something different under the tree. Think more about non-material gifts. “You don’t need money to embrace the abundance of this sacred season,” says Rev. T. D. Jakes, an author and pastor in Texas. “During the holidays and all the days afterward, give something greater than what can be bought with money.” Some ways of doing that include visiting someone who is clearly lonely; volunteering at your church or a homeless shelter or at a women’s center; inviting a person for a meal. “Rather than engage solely in superficial festivities, we can choose instead to dig deep into our own humanity displaying our good will and getting back to the simplicity of holy days that highlight, above all, a peasant boy born in a manager but destined to make a difference in a world so in need of light,” Rev. Jakes says.

4. Work on yourself, not on others. A great deal of tension occurs during the holidays when family members get together with one member trying to “fix” another. Resist any urge to criticize, correct, attack, belittle, or pass judgment on a family member or friend. Begin by asking yourself these types of questions: • Can I be a little more patient with my impossible to please mother-in-law? • Can I be a little kinder toward an obnoxious brother? • Can I be a little more loving toward my partner? • Can I be a little more helpful to a sister? • Can I be a little more understanding of my mother? • Can I be a little more forgiving toward a hurtful relative? • Can I be a little less judgmental?

5. Set specific spiritual goals. Early in December, sit quietly to establish specific spiritual goals for yourself during the holy season. “Last year I wanted to have a more meaningful holiday,” says Ricardo, an accountant in England. “So, right on December 1st I spent an evening thinking about ways to do that and then put it down in writing. This was my holiday spiritual goal list: To pray daily for a minimum of ten minutes; to smile at everyone I encountered; to read daily from Scripture or other spiritually edifying literature; to send a sizeable Christmas gift check to a group working with the poor in my city; to write a thank you note to someone who helped me in the past.”

6. Nurture your own spirit. When we are in a good place emotionally and spiritually, then things tend to go more smoothly during various holiday festivities. Spiritual self-care can reduce stressful feelings and even eliminate them completely. Consider Anna, who annually hosts her ever increasing family gathering. “On Christmas Eve, the

entire extended family – now numbering nearly 25 people – comes to my home for our holiday meal. I prepare appropriately and then, an hour before the first guests arrive, I absent myself from the house and take a 30-minute meditative walk alone. During that time I soak in the wonder of winter nature as I meditate, pray, and reflect on how blessed my life is and has been. This allows me to center down and exude a genuinely positive spiritual tone for the evening and for everyone present.”

7. Make room at the Inn. One December in rural New Mexico, a severe snow blizzard struck stranding holiday travelers on an isolated highway. Living nearby were Randy Glover who was talking to his wife, Christine, on a two way radio. As they spoke, the radio picked up a voice of a stranger who explained he and his family were stranded in their car on the highway. Realizing they were only 200 yards away but unable to see the Glover house because of blinding snow, Randy radioed directions. The family of six made it into the comfort and safety of the Glover home.

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December 2015

River Region’s Journey

Then, Randy learned there were other vehicles stuck on the road so, putting on ski goggles, he went out inviting the stranded into their home. One by one, the travelers, entered. Eventually 44 of them came ranging in age from 4 to over 70. Frightened, frustrated and tired, they were warmly welcomed and fed from two huge pots of bubbling chili. One of the stranded was a grocery delivery driver who, given the extreme circumstances, removed grocery items from his truck so all could be fed until the roads were cleared two days later. This story is a reminder to ‘make room at the inn’. During the holiday when it is customary for people to be with family and friends, open your home to someone who is unable to be with others.

8. Train yourself to see Christ in the poor. That was the wish of Jesus who said: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). The poor – those whose lives are in struggle mode – are all around us, yet we often don’t notice or refuse to see them. One woman tells of walking by a homeless man several times while rushing about doing Christmas shopping. While leaving a shopping mall, she noticed an impeccably dressed “classy man” also leaving and was surprised when he stopped to speak with the homeless man. Listening, she heard the man offer a “Merry Christmas” to the homeless youth and then press some money into his hand. It was an important lesson to the woman who says: “I didn’t even want to make eye contact with the homeless man but this gentleman reached out to him, greeted him, touched him and gave him money. Through witnessing that act, I immediately gained a deeper understanding of compassion.” As you go through the holiday season, bring love, peace and joy to your part of the world. Be guided by this definition of love from St. Augustine: “What does love look like? It has the hands to help others. It has the feet to hasten to the poor and needy. It has eyes to see misery and want. It has the ears to hear the sighs and sorrows of men. That is what love looks like.” Be love in action. This will truly bring joy to your world.

Even though their judgment isn’t always amazing,

their healthcare is. Healthcare as amazing as their potential

1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 ChildrensAL.org

Rev. Victor Parachin is a minister and author of a dozen books. River Region’s Journey

December 2015

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In June of 1969 four coeds at Ohio State decided to pool their resources and sublease a duplex. The girls, unaccustomed to real estate transactions, gave one of the tenants moving out the money to cover the first month’s rent, without getting a receipt. Everything seemed fine until the second week, when a young man in a suit knocked at the door. He wanted to know who they were and why they had not paid the rent. They explained that they had already paid the departed college student to sublease. The real estate manager, named Will, said he had not received any money and that the June rent was still due. They had been robbed and had no more money for rent. The coeds were frantic. But there is more to this story. Decades later, Peg, one of the subleasers, would say that she did not remember how that first month’s rent was paid, but she did remember Will, the young man in the suit. He would come by in person every month to collect the rent. After a few months the two of them were dating. A year or so later they were engaged. Six months after that they were married. That marriage lasted 33 years, until Will passed away. God had used a robbery to introduce them. The thief meant to do evil. The Lord used it for good. But there is more to this story. Peg would later write: After meeting Will in 1969 we started dating. About three months into our relationship Will’s boss, Ted, invited us to go to church with his family. It was that Sunday that I first heard the gospel. The pastor was preaching on Ephesians 2:8-9: For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. NIV I remember being completely baffled by the idea that salvation was a free gift and not the result of my good works. And all the people sitting there in that church seemed to believe that truth. But more than that, they

were writing in their Bibles, and talking about your door today. It may look like very bad the sermon after church. I had never dealt news. It may look like the end of your world. with a group of people who seemed to take But trust God and allow Him to use this God’s Word so seriously. present anxiety for His purpose. Maybe, just After church Ted and his wife Carol maybe, God is drawing you to walk closer invited us to their home for lunch.. The famwith Him than you ever imagined. ily continued to talk about spiritual things. As Joseph would one day say to his When I went home that afternoon I remember brothers who sold him into slavery: thinking how different this experience was You intended to harm me, but God infor me. So I started searching the Scripture on tended it for good to accomplish what is now my own and whenever we were visiting Ted being done, the saving of many lives. Genesis and Carol’s house (they invited us over a lot) 50:20 NIV I pumped Carol with all my questions about We may not know the outcome, but we God’s Word. know Who decides how things come out. Just One night, after about two months of trust Him. searching the Scriptures, I remember getting on my knees and crying out to God to give me whatever I needed to be like these people. That is when I had a new thirst for the Word and wanted to go to the same church that Ted and Carol attended. I praise God that he used this family to draw me close to him, or vEry finally understand the gospel, and embrace E n E r at i o n its truth in my own life. So, what started as a disturbing knock at the door became Prattville First United Methodist Church something else 100 E. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 entirely. It became a T R A D IT IO N A L W O R S H IP 8 : 3 0 A M & 11: 00 A M life-changing blessing. S U N D AY S C H O O L 9 : 4 5 A M You cannot help but T H E W E L L 11 : 0 0 A M wonder if the Lord didn’t set that whole thing up to draw His child to Himself. Maybe there is a disturbing knock at www.prattvillemethodist.org

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December 2015

River Region’s Journey

Montgomery

Dalraida UMC

Aldersgate UMC

6610 Vaughn Road Sunday, December 6 4 p.m. The Great Christmas Cookie Caper Christmas Cookie contest, Mission projects and concert Sunday, December 13 “The Silence and the Sound” 10:30 a.m. Lessons and Carols Service A heart stirring presentation featuring the Chancel Choir, Children and Youth Choir’s and Orchestra. Wednesday December 24 Christmas Eve Service; 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Communion, Carols and Candlelight For more information call the Aldersgate music ministry office at (334) 272.6152.

Centerpoint Fellowship ChurchCloverdale location 608 E. Fairview Ave. Thursday, December 24 Candlelight Service at 4:30 pm.

Christchurch

(ad on page 3) Wednesday, December 2 8800 Vaughn Road 6:30 p.m. Candlelight Harpischord Chamber Concert. You are invited to a free concert of sacred and secular music. The 45-minute performance will feature instrumental and vocal pieces performed by the church’s chancel choir and soloists from the church, as well as outside professionals. The free concert in the church’s sanctuary will begin at 6 p.m. Reception to follow in Canterbury Hall. Reception tickets will be available by calling (334) 387.0566, ext. 203. Please visit www. christchurchxp.net for more details.

United Lutheran Church

1104 Rosa Parks Avenue, (334) 262.4326 Saturday, December 7 Christmas Bazaar 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Great opportunity to do your holiday shopping, food, home décor and one of a kind handmade gift items. River Region’s Journey

December 2015

3817 Atlanta Hwy, (334) 272.2190 Sunday, December 6 5:45 p.m. A Tree Lot Christmas put on by the children. Multi-generational Christmas Musical. This year the children of Friends, the youth group, a choir ensemble and others will be joining together to present A TREE LOT CHRISTMAS. This musical is filled with vibrant songs that deliver the truth of God’s word and a script that follows a group of kids selling trees outside Mr. Carmichael’s toy store to raise money for children in need. Come join the adventure as these compassionate and funloving kids demonstrate the powerful love of Christ to the greedy Mr. Carmichael and invite him into the family of God.

Eastern Hills Baptist Church

3604 Pleasant Ridge Road (in the Forest Hills neighborhood) Sunday, December 6 11th Annual “Hanging of the Green” 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Come help us ring in the Christmas season celebrating the hope found in the Christ Child! Also featuring: Youth Choirs, Drama, Celebration Ringers (hand bells), Ensemble, Narration, Interpretive Movement, Visual Arts and more. Come early for a good seat. No admission charge. Call (334) 272.0604 ext. 214 or visit us online, www.ehbconline.com.

First Presbyterian Church

9299 Vaughn Road, Pike Road Thursday, December 24 Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship Service 5:30 p.m. with Communion. Join us as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Please call (334) 279.1372 or visit www.firstchurchmontgomery.org.

First United Methodist Church (ad on page 21) 2416 West Cloverdale Park (334) 834.8990 Sunday, November 29 Hanging of the Greens, 4 – 6 p.m. Come with unwrapped toys or monetary gifts for families in need as we dress our Sanctuary for the season of Advent. 20

Sunday, December 13 Festival of Christmas Concert, 4 pm Our annual concert featuring our music ministry and a professional orchestra. Thursday, December 24 Christmas Eve Services Communion Service, 12 – 1 p.m., family, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., Candlelight services at 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 31 The Watch Night Service, 5 to 6 p.m. A service of hope and healing in the Sanctuary.

Frazer Memorial UMC

(ad on Inside Front Cover) 6000 Atlanta Highway Saturday, December 5th 9 a.m. Women’s Christmas Front December 13 Christmas Musical Wesley Hall, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Frazer presents this community wide production, Christmas Theatre. Fun for the entire family! Please call (334) 272.8622 or visit www.frazerumc.org. Thursday, December 24 “Candlelight Worship” 5 p.m. in Sanctuary 5 and 7 p.m. in Wesley Hall.

First Baptist Church

(ad on Back Cover) 305 South Perry Street Sunday, November 29 The Joy Singers Christmas Program at 6:15 p.m. Stakeley Sanctuary; Come join us as the JOY Adult Choir leads us in worship celebrating the birth of Christ . December 11-13 The Living Christmas Tree Performers will delight you atop the 40 ft. set resembling a Christmas tree on stage. Tickets go on sale November 30. Please call (334) 834.6310 or visit us at www.montgomeryfbc.org.

Gateway Baptist Church

(ad on page 5) 3300 Bell Road, (334) 272.9494 Thursday, December 24 Candlelight Service and Communion, held at 5 p.m.

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Heritage Baptist Church

(ad on page 9)) 1949 Perry Hill Road; 279.9976 December 12, 13 and 15 The Visions Drama Ministry of Heritage will perform Jeannette Clift George’s play titled O Little Town of Bagels, Teacakes, and Hamburger Buns on Saturday, Dec. 12 and Sunday, Dec. 13 at 6:00 PM and Tuesday, Dec. 15 at 7 pm. No admission charged. The play is set in 1960 in a Palestine, Texas coffee shop that serves as a Christmas Eve rendezvous for an assortment of characters, all of whom are lost in some way. The story is comically woven together with strands of sorrow and loneliness as they begin to understand the message about the true meaning of Christmas.

Saint James UMC

(ad on page 5) 9045 Vaughn Road, (334) 277.3037 Sunday, December 13 Christmas Cantata, “Silent Night” at 11:00 am in the traditional sanctuary. The service will feature the Chancel Choir, with Nathan Hamilton leading worship, and with Corine Free on the piano and Diane Scott on the organ. We hope you can join us for this marvelous musical event.

Christmas Eve Services 12 p.m. - Sanctuary, Early service for those going out of town. 4 p.m. – Family Life Center, Fun interactive celebration service for children. 5 p.m. – Worship Center, Candle lighting communion service 7 p.m.- Sanctuary, Candle lighting and communion service.

Vaughn Forest Church

8660 Vaughn Road Sunday, December 4 A Christmas in the Forest Everyone is invited to celebrate the sounds of Christmas at 6 p.m. in the worship center Thursday, December 24 Christmas Eve Services For more information please contact Vaughn Forest Church at (334) 279.5433.

Prattville Centerpoint Fellowship Church

Marriott Conference Center 2500 Legends Circle Thursday, December 24 Candlelight Services at 3:00 pm, 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm

East Memorial Baptist Church

1320 Old Ridge Road December 6 He Has Come for Us in song and drama at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Admission is free. For more information contact the church office at (334) 365.7500 or visit our website at www.eastmemorial.org.

First Baptist Church

(ad on page 25) 138 South Washington St. Thursday, December 24 Christmas Eve Service, 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Glynwood Baptist Church

376 McQueen Smith Road N. (334) 361.9180 Sunday, December 6 10:15 a.m., Children’s Christmas Musical, “Hope is Singing” Sunday, December 13 10:15 a.m., Adult Christmas Musical, Christmas Eve Service Thursday, December 24, 5 p.m.

Wetumpka Centerpoint Fellowship Church Bienville Square Shopping Center 4876 U.S. Highway 231 Thursday, December 24 Candlelight Service at 4:30

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December 2015

River Region’s Journey

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Advent-ure 2015: The Road to Bethlehem Last year, I developed a guide for the Advent season, designed to help us think more deeply about the significance of Christ’s birth. I am bringing back the concept of the Advent-ure this year with a different approach. There are 20 themes, corresponding to geographical locations, leading up to the birth of Jesus. Please join me for this year’s spiritual “road trip!” Day 1 – Eden. The road to salvation begins in a garden, where Adam and Eve experienced the best – and worst – of what God had to offer. Once they fell, the promise of redemption was pronounced. Scripture: Genesis 3:15 Day 2 – Haran. God appeared to a man named Abram (later, Abraham) and promised to bless his descendants. Scriptures: Genesis 12:1-3 Day 3 – Peniel. The name of Jacob, grandson of Abraham, was changed to Israel - the twelve children of Jacob became the twelve tribes of Israel. Jacob was regarded as someone who was instrumental in the furtherance of God’s earthly plan. Scriptures: Genesis 32:27-30 Day 4 – Egypt. The final plague before Israel left Egypt was the death of the firstborn, with the exception of the Israelites who placed the blood of a lamb on their houses. This foreshadowed Christ, our Passover Lamb, the perfect sacrifice for our sins. Scriptures: Exodus 12:12-13 Day 5 – Jericho. Prior to Israel passing into the Promised Land, the land of Canaan, Joshua sent spies into Jericho, and they were protected by Rahab, whom we learn was in the genealogy of Jesus. \She played a key role in the progression of the plan for Israel. Scripture: Joshua 2 Day 6 – Bethlehem I. A Moabite (Gentile) woman married a man named Boaz. Their relationship became a picture of the relationship between Christ and the church, and their greatgrandson was David. Scriptures: Ruth 4:13,17 River Region’s Journey

December 2015

Day 7 – Bethlehem II. David was chosen to be king over Israel by the prophet Samuel. His father was Jesse, and Isaiah writes that he would be the ancestor of the Messiah. Scriptures: I Sam. 16:7,12,13; Isaiah 11:1-5 Day 8 – Jerusalem. The prophet Isaiah was sent to King Ahaz and prophesied the coming of the Messiah, saying that He would be born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14) and a child upon whose shoulder the government would rest. Scriptures: Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6,7 Day 9 – Medo/Persian Empire. Daniel, a Jew, a high-ranking official in the Empire, received a heavenly vision, in which he saw, with remarkable precision, the timing of the coming of the Messiah. Scriptures: Daniel 9:24-27 Day 10 – Moresheth. That is the home of the prophet Micah, who predicted where the Messiah would be born – in Bethlehem. Scripture: Micah 5:2 Day 11 – Judea. An angel appeared to the priest Zacharias, who was told by the angel Gabriel that his wife, Elizabeth, would bear a son, whom we know to be John the Baptist. He was rendered mute because he did not believe, but later his tongue was loosed after writing that the boy’s name would be John. Scriptures: Luke 1:13-17 Day 12 – Nazareth I. The angel Gabriel brought more news, this time to a young lady in Nazareth, proclaiming that she would give birth to the Son of God. Scriptures: Luke 1:30-33 Day 13 – Nazareth II. Joseph also received an angelic visitation, with the news of the identity of this child that Mary would bear. Scriptures: Matthew 1:20-23 Day 14 – a city of Judah. Mary went to visit her relative, Elizabeth, who confirmed the significance of this special child. In response, Mary 22

offered a beautiful soliloquy of praise to God. Scriptures: Luke 1:41-45 Day 15 – Judea. After John the Baptist was born, Zacharias proclaimed salvation to Israel and prophesied that his son would go before Jesus. Scriptures: Luke 1:68-80 Day 16 – between Nazareth and Bethlehem. Joseph and his pregnant wife, Mary, journeyed to Bethlehem to register in the census ordered by the Roman government. Scriptures: Luke 2:1-7 Day 17 – Bethlehem III. The road has returned to Bethlehem, as Mary and Joseph found that there were no accommodations for them. So, Jesus was born in the humble surroundings of a manger. Scriptures: Luke 2:6-7 Day 18 – the shepherds’ fields. An angel appeared to shepherds and proclaimed the news of Jesus’ birth. The angel was joined by a heavenly host in a thunderous declaration of praise. Scriptures: Luke 2:8-14 Day 19 – Bethlehem IV. The shepherds also made a journey to Bethlehem, hurriedly travelling to the manger and responding in proclamation and worship. Scriptures: Luke 2:15-20 Day 20 – the East. God placed a sign in the heavens, a star, which was observed by Magi from “the East,” and they journeyed to Jerusalem, then Bethlehem, to bring gifts and worship Jesus. Scriptures: Matthew 2:1-11 During the Christmas season on The Meeting House, please join me as we reflect together on the stops along this inspiring road. 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.

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Proclaiming God’s gift!

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Tune to Faith Radio throughout the Christmas season for music and programs that proclaim our Savior’s birth!

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Your Investment and Support Matters! As we conclude 2015, we ask you to prayerfully consider making a Kingdom Investment in this ministry. Faith Radio is touching many lives each day and night and your donation can make an eternal impact. Faith Radio is listener supported and your support matters! Contact us by calling 800-239-8900 or visit our website www.faithradio.org. Our mailing address is P.O. Box 210789, Montgomery, AL 36121. Listen LIVE Now at www.faithradio.org • Montgomery WLBF WSTF 91.5FM | Dothan WLBF 90.3FM 2015 River Region’s Journey 23 89.1FM | AndalusiaDecember Eufaula 91.9FM | Alexander City 94.1FM | Sylacauga 94.1FM | Thorsby/Jemison 96.9FM | Brewton 92.1FM

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River Regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Journey

December 2015

Romans 6:11 “In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” With an incredible testimony of trials, hardship, and great faith, Dewayne Rembert shared how the Lord came into his life and stirred a passion to reach youth for Jesus Christ. Raised in lower Alabama, in a low income community, Dewayne knew only pain and rejection in his years before meeting Christ. His grandmother was his main guardian due to abandonment by his father and a mother who was on and off the streets. “It was a miracle that I graduated high school,” says Dewayne, “let alone work my way up in the hotel business.” Dewayne says that he not only saw himself as “not good enough,” but those around him did as well. He recalled a time in his life when a school administrator approached him and his friends. His friends had parents who were a part of the school system and the administrator only acknowledged them as eligible for a real future. “Everyone knew that my mama was on the streets, and they treated me accordingly,” Rembert said. From that point

forward Dewayne searched for all that ways to find his place in the world, no matter what it was. Years and years of disappointment, rejection, and heartache flooded the life of Dewayne Rembert… Until he met Jesus Christ. “I heard it. I heard the Gospel for the first time on February 3, 2002 at 11:17 A.M.,” he said “and my life would never be the same again.”

The Birth of the Flatline Movement

Only a few months after hearing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Dewayne heard the Lord tell him to start the Flatline Movement. When he originally felt like the Lord was calling him to this, all he had was a scripture, Romans 6:11, which

reads, “In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” With one scripture, one man began a movement that would slowly move through the schools and streets of towns all over the state of Alabama, starting with Montgomery. The idea of this movement is for us to die before we physically die; die to self and give our lives to Jesus before our earthly body flatlines. “That’s the heartbeat of flatline,” says Dewayne. “I know what it’s like to go through school

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River Region’s Journey

broken, neglected, and lonely, but cover it up with rebellion. In the hood, it’s not popular to have others interested in you and helping your life.” So, Dewayne went against the status quo of the broken and began investing in the lives of young teens that all have one thing in common: pain. Dewayne started out by becoming a school bus driver for the city of Montgomery. He would drive around the city picking up kids and taking them to and from school. He valued the kids who rode his bus and those kids, in turn, respected him. Fights stopped happening, bad language was put to an end, and these kids began to recognize that their bus driver had something that they were hungry for: acceptance. So, by driving busses and ministering to a lost culture of kids, Dewayne found friendships and relationships that

were avenues of ministry to numerous places around the city. Dewayne says the person who supported him and all that the Lord was sharing with him was his wife. “She knew from experience that if I said the Lord told me something, she should believe me.” The two had a steady and strong income, children to feed, and bills to pay, but Dewayne and his wife knew they had to press into what the Lord was telling them. He was able to share account after account of experiences after “stepping backwards” financially that the Lord provided more than what they needed, reaffirming that the two were exactly where God wanted them to be. So the movement began.

Music at the Center of the Movement

Dewayne was able to pull together a large group of people, all from different backgrounds, churches, and ethnicities to start a movement that would explode in the lives of youths in our city. There are so many who are a part of this movement. “There are more behind the scenes than most will see at the events. Nevertheless, as far as the faces of Flatline there are two Rap Groups - G.S.O.G. (David Keller and Ladarius Rembert) and Anonymous (Cody Mc Millan, Big Yae, Rockstar JT), Porscha (Rapper), Miss Quan, Vandelyn, Tyler (Singers), Crown J and Tiffany Orum (Producers), Flatline Mime Team (David, Dorothy, Jacob, Devin, Dorian) and my wife Leslie (Boss). Rembert says, “Many won’t admit it, but music plays a major role in the lives of our young people. We believe music is a direct link to the heart. The heart is the seat of the emotions. If it can control your emotions, it can control your mind. Romans 12:2 says: “Be not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Basically, what

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you hear the most will have the biggest effect on you. Our music has the heart of Christ on it. RAP isn’t evil; it stands for Rhyme And Poetry. If you look in the Bible, the book of Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon are poetic books. So rap itself isn’t evil, but most of the rap our youth are exposed to today is evil, so we are called to provide the right version of it.” Flatline Movement has made its way into multiple schools around the city, and churches all over the state. This move-

ment is slowly but surely changing the lives of teens, empowering them to be the change that needs to take place within the city. Flatline has merchandise sold around the city and their performances are full of exciting music, poetry, and always end with the sharing of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Their goal and vision is to tell all those who listen about the truth of Jesus and the freedom found in Him.

Raising Their Standard in Hopes of Revival

Flatline believes that God is calling them to raise the standard. They see that God is using this ministry to cause an uprising for Christ amongst young people. A revival! Youth are looking for something that is genuine. Flatline wants

to continue to work with students and administrators within school systems, as well as, ministries in the city. A few that are already involved with Flatline are: Alternative Ministries (which holds the Judgement House), Frazer’s Mens Ministry, First Baptist Church, Anointed Warrior Hill Baptist Church (where Dewayne is the Youth Pastor), Faith Radio, Common Ground, and many more. The story behind this movement is miraculous, but the way the Lord is moving within it shines even brighter. Dewayne Rembert is not the only voice within Flatline, but his story was a shining light in originating it. If there is a desire to host the Flatline Movement in your school, church, or town, they can be contacted at 334.603.1881 or by email: DrFlatlineMovement@gmail.com Also: facebook.com/FlatLineMinistries FlatlineMovement.com Laura Bell is a freelance writer, born and raised in Montgomery, Alabama. She enjoys spending time with her husband Cody and finding all reasons to have joy in life!

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River Region’s Journey

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Adoption

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy and First UMC, Millbrook APAC- Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connection Support Group This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer. For information, call Monica Russell at 409-9477 or email mrussell@childrensaid.org. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., First UMC, Millbrook. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For info, call Hannah Taylor at 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@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 network for individuals who want to support orphans. Location: Millbrook First United Methodist Church, 3350 Edgewood Road Adoption Support- Will meet 4th Tuesday of each month from 6-7:30 p.m.

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.

days at 5:30pm (meal-CrossTalk Cafe), 6-6:55 pm (large group), 6:55-7:45 (small group). Childcare available. Call Larry at 334-832-5714 or visit myjourneychurch.com.

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.

Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. RSVPThis 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 @ 6:30pm in Rm. 121 of the Life Center.

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. Call the LifeCare office at 272-8622.

Location: Prattville Church of Christ, 344 East Main St. RSVP - 12 step (Christians Against Substance Abuse-CASA) spiritual recovery program, for overcoming addictions. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 PM. Please call 334365-4201 for addition information. 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. Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) is open to all struggling with addictive sexual behavior. If you believe you have a problem with sex addiction (or are wondering if you might) and you want to change your behavior, we recommend you visit our group. For locations, please visit- https://saa-recovery.org/ or please contact – MontgomerySAA@outlook.com. Meetings are held: every Sunday night - 7:45 p.m, men only. Every Monday night - 7:30 p.m, men and women. 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 lifechallenging issues.” For information, call Chris Henderson at 334-215-0427.

Location: Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway Alcoholics Anonymous meets at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays. 272.2190. Alanon meets at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays.

Location: Trinity Episcopal, Wetumpka (Across from Winn Dixie on HWY 231) Gamblers Anonymous-Saturdays at 7 p.m.

Location: First Baptist Church (Huff Community Ministries Bldg., 200 S. Perry Street) Celebrate Recovery, a Bible-based Christ centered approach to recovery from hurts, habits and hang-ups, meets Friday nights, from 5:30 p.m.- 8 p.m. For more information, contact Jane Ferguson at 241.5141.

Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step-Christian process to help you cope with hurts, hang-ups, and habits on a weekly basis. Led by Jeff McFarland on Wednesdays from 6-8 pm. Call 279-5433 for more info.

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! gracepoint.info. Location: Journey Church, 2960 East Cobbs Ford Road across from The Catfish House in Millbrook Celebrate Recovery - Christ-centered 12-step for anyone struggling with addiction or life-challenging issues. Mon-

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December 2015

Location: First United Methodist Church, Wetumpka 306 W. Tuskeena Street ‘Fresh Start’ Recovery meets every Thursday, 6-8pm (meal included). In 2011, Fresh Start Motorcycle Ministry (FSMM) began when God laid it on the heart of a lifetime biker to minister to those with his background. All are welcome, not a requirement to own/ride a motorcycle. Format used is the Holy Bible. For any info contact ministry leader, Paul Henderson, 334-201-5428.

Alzheimer’s / Dementia

Location: First UMC, 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, Wesley Hall Bldg. An Adult Parkinson/Alzheimer’s respite ministry meets from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Lunch is served. Contact Daphne at 834-8990.

Location: Memorial Presbyterian, 2130 Bell Road A Dementia Morning Out for caregivers is offered each Tuesday from 8:45-noon. There is no charge. Each participant may bring a sack lunch (juice provided). Registration is required by calling 274-1018.

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Cancer

Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery Cancer Survivors Support Group is sponsored by Samaritan Counseling Center. We would love to have anyone (patient or family member ) join us. Thursdays at 1 pm. Please call before attending just to make sure we are meeting that week. Please call Debbie D at 467-4578 or Ben W at 202-1912. Location: Dalraida Baptist, 3838 Wares Ferry Road. Just for Men -- Faith based cancer support group for men. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the conference center. Please call 272-2412 email stan.hurst@knology.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 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, and friends, meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in Rm 8253. Call 272-8622 or womenofhope@charter.net. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. The Central Alabama Multiple Myeloma Support Group meets from 10 a.m. to noon the second Saturday of every month in Room 3105. We have guest speakers, video presentations, printed information and a group that welcomes sharing their journey with myeloma in an informal setting. Refreshments are provided.. Contact Lorenzo and Elaine Duncan at 334-281-8158, or at duncan6563@gmail.com.

Depression

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 Hwy in Church Annex. Call 334.652.1431 or email dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com.

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Divorce

Location: First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street Divorce Care is held Wednesdays, 6:30-8 pm. Childcare available. $15 for workbook. Dinner at 4:45 ($5 adults, $3 kids). Call Kathy Cooper at 241-5125. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Divorce Care meets each Tuesday from 6-7:30pm. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. Also, Divorce Care for Kids meets each Tuesday from 6-7:30pm. For information, contact 495-6385 or email singles@frazerumc.org.

Location: Millbrook First UMC, 3350 Edgewood Road DivorceCare- Will meet Sundays from 5-7 p.m. For more information or to sign up, please call the church office at 285-4114 or email churchoffice@mfumc.org. Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road DivorceCare fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. Facilitators are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie, and Becki Harrison. Call 279-5433.

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Gambling

Location: Cedarwood Community Church, 10286 US HWY 231 in the Wallsboro/ Wetumpka community Gamblers Anonymous, Saturdays at 6 pm. 567-0476 Location: Mental Health of America Bldg, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Sundays @ 5 pm. Location: St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy, Mondays @ 6pm.

Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420 or you can call 2-1-1 and ask for meeting information. Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling: 277-5100

Grief Location: Eastmont Baptist, 4505 Atlanta Hwy. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child meeting first Tuesdays at 7 pm. Call (334) 284-2721 for info. Location: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth St, Prattville Grief Share, Tuesday evenings at 6:30 pm in the church parlor. Call 365-5977. Location: Frazer UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Grief Recovery Support Group meets Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., Rm 3105, in Fellowship Hall Lobby. 272.8622. Location: Grace Baptist Church, 304 Old Montgomery Highway, Wetumpka Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. Meets the last Thursday night of each month. For info, contact Alice Scarborough (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis (334) 567-8754 or e-mail mourningtomorning@gmail. com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. Location: Millbrook FUMC, 3350 Edgewood Rd Grief Share meets Sundays from 5-7 p.m. For more information or to sign up, please call the church office at 285-4114 or email churchoffice@mfumc.org. 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 information contact Glover at 334-281-2754. Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road GriefShare is a support group that meets Wednesdays from 6-8 pm. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. Call 2795433 for more information.

Miscellaneous Location: 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. OCD Support Group (obsessive- Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand washing, rituals, checking stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. Call Donald: 220-7555. Location: Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Highway Take Heart is for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. The group meets the first Monday of each month at 6 pm in room 116. Contact Melissa at (205) 9132667 for more information.

Parenting

Location: First Baptist Prattville, 138 S. Washington Moms LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) meets twice monthly from 8:30 - 11:45 am in the chapel at the Church from Aug May. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guest, special guest speakers and a lot of fun!! Cost is $5 per meeting. For moms of all

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River Region’s Journey

stages and ages of life. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call April Scott at 828-446-6666. Location: First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Moms, need a little break? MOPS is a place you can share a good meal, make new friends, and find encouragement as you face the everyday challenges of raising your little ones. We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Meetings are every 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Frazer mom2mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of ages birth to 5 at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. Email Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information.

together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms, and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. We meet the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month from 9:30—11:30 a.m. Childcare is provided. For info e-mail VFCMOPS@gmail.com.

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 272-6152.

Location: Perry Hill UMC, 910 Perry Hill Road Single Moms’ Care and Support Group meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15 - 8:00 PM. December meeting will be on the 11th. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants -16 years. Call 272-3174 for information.

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 affected by a neuromuscular disease or family members of those affected. To receive information, call 396-4534.

Location: Redland Baptist, 1266 Dozier Rd, Wetumpka A MOPS group will be held 1st and 3rd Tuesday’s of every month during the school year, and has scheduled play dates and moms nights out through the summer and beyond. While moms are in a MOPS meeting, their children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program. Email Denise Braswell at deniseorscott@yahoo.com for more info.

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy The Montgomery Ostomy Support Group is for people who have had or will have urinary or intestinal diversion surgeries such as colostomy, ileostomy and urostomy. Family members are welcome to attend. Meetings are held every other month generally on a Sunday afternoon. For more information, call Paul at 271-3563 or visit www.montgomeryostomy.info.

Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers

at 6 p.m., in room 8114 at Frazer UMC. This group is for those who have Parkinson’s disease and the family members. 272-8622.

Singlehood

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Boundaries study for singles meets each Tuesday from 6-7:30pm in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. This study will help singles learn to set boundaries with emotions and help avoid the harmful behavior of others. For more information, call 495-6386 or email singles@frazerumc.org. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Single and Parenting! A New Group for Single Mom’s. This group meets every Tuesday from 6-7:30pm for hope & encouragement & guidance & parenting ideas. For information, call 495-6386 or email singles@frazerumc.org. Location: Cornerstone Christian, 301 Dalraida Rd. Unavoidably Single Again (USA) Fellowship, a support group for widows and widowers. 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. Contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Parkinson’s Support Group will meet the 4th Thursday

Email your support group info to deanne@readjourneymagazine.com!

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The Body of Christ in Our Hurting World Christmas is upon us. We busily decorate and shop and cook. We know we are called by Christ to serve those in need, so we schedule time to stuff Samaritan’s Purse boxes, buy toys for Angel Tree children, and give to the Food Bank. As we work with our church family and friends to help others, do we recognize that need comes in many forms? As we pass each other in the halls of church every Sunday morning saying… “Merry Christmas…how are you?”... do we recognize that many of us are hiding our pain as we answer… “I’m fine, Merry Christmas!” Christmas is portrayed as a season of joy, peace, and happiness. Everything surrounding us is bright and merry, suggesting that we should be too, but for many people the shininess of the Christmas season stands in stark contrast to the heartbreak, loss, disappointment and loneliness they are experiencing. Every day, hurting people come to Samaritan Counseling Center seeking help and hope. Many use precious emotional energy pretending to be “fine”. They struggle to present a brave face to the outside world while suffering in River Region’s Journey

December 2015

silence - afraid of judgment, rejection, or lack of understanding. It is our responsibility to be the hands and feet of Christ in our hurting world, and our hurting world begins with the people in our lives, at church, at work, in the parking lot, in the grocery store… We want to help, but we are often unprepared. We don’t know what to say to people dealing with crisis and loss. What should we do? • Become a safe, welcoming place for those close to you to reveal their pain and brokenness. “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in

listening ear, while others would be blessed by a card or a note. The Rev. G. Campbell Morgan wrote, “Silent sympathy always creates an opportunity for grief to express itself.” • Validate their pain. Romans 12:15 exhorts us to “…mourn with those who mourn.” Feeling heard and understood is a blessing. • Walk with them through their dark valleys reminding them of God’s presence. Psalm 23… “Yea though I walk through the valley…Thou art with me.” He uses the body of Christ in that ministry of presence. • Be alert to God’s gentle nudges and take action. Often we sense that God wants us to act, but we convince ourselves otherwise when we are uncomfortable. When we reach out to others in God’s name, we are blessed. • Identify and use your God-given gifts! Use the resources your have. We are called to be the Body of Christ. I Corinthians 12:27 – “Now you are the body of Christ and each one of you is a part of it.”

any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” 2 Cor. 1:2-4 • Notice the needs of those around you. Ask others how they are doing and really want an answer. In Galatians 6:2, Paul writes, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the laws of Christ.” • Be sensitive to the real needs of those suffering. Some need your presence and 32

A line in a contemporary Christian song creates a visual...“God put a million, million doors in the world for his love to walk through, and one of those doors is you.” This Christmas, let God’s love pour through you to a hurting world.

Rebecca Rose Morris is a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and Counseling Supervisor. She earned her Masters degree at Auburn University Montgomery and graduated with an Ed.S. from Troy University – Montgomery Campus. She works with adolescents and adults addressing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, life transitions, and relational trauma.

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December 2015 Community Calendar Monthly events can also be found in the Around Our Community Section starting on page 8. December 2 6:30 p.m. Candlelight Harpischord Chamber Concert at Christchurch, 8800 Vaughn Road. You are invited to a free concert of sacred and secular music. The 45-minute performance will feature instrumental and vocal pieces performed by the church’s chancel choir and soloists from the church, as well as outside professionals. The free concert in the church’s sanctuary will begin at 6 p.m. Reception to follow in Canterbury Hall. Reception tickets will be available by calling (334) 387.0566, ext. 203. Please visit www.christchurchxp.net for more details.

December 3-4 Macedonica Miracle Kingdom are inviting everyone to Worship and Glory God with us at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 03 and Friday, December 04, 2015 or Glory Invasion with Prophetess Juanita Bynum.

December 5 Church Missions Yard Sale. Aldersgate United Methodist Church, Christian Activity Center, 6610 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 7am - 10am, Rain or Shine. Great items include: Furniture, children’s clothing and toys, adult clothing, coats, housewares, kitchenwares, books, Christmas decorations and so much more. Everything must go. All proceeds benefit the 2016 short-term mission trip to Ecuador.

January 15-16 Kelly Minter will be at Eastern Hills Baptist Church, 3604 Pleasant Ridge Road, in Montgomery. Call 272.0604 for more information. Visit www.ehbconline.com.

January 22-23 Dream Women’s Conference featuring: awardwinning curriculum developer, best selling books author, and co-founder of Messenger International Lisa Bevere, and world renowned christian musician, Christy Nockles! This event is going to sell out fast so register NOW online or in our church lobby, Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road! Call 294-4052 or visit itickets.com.

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. Bridge of Life Assembly of God, 9000 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, holds Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m. each week. Sunday school classes meet at 9:30 a.m. We offer classes for all age groups and childcare is provided. Our goal is to build bridges...not walls. We invite you to come join us if you need to learn how to build those bridges. For directions or information call 334-396-0208. Visit www.bridgeoflife.tv. Central Community Christian Church, 981 South Perry Street, Montgomery, holds new members training classes on Sundays at 9 a.m. Sunday School (9:30), morning worship (11:00), Tuesday night Bible study (6:30). Every fourth Sunday of the month is our youth Sunday. For more information please call (334) 269-0457 or by email at centralccchurch1@gmail.com.

Christchurch, 8800 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, Sunday Worship 9:30, Fellowship/SundaySchool for all ages. Monday: Women’s Enrichment 6:00; Wednesday: Enrichment for all ages 5:30-6:30; Parish-wide supper 6:30-7:30 every Wednesday; Thursday: Men’s Breakfast Bible Study 7:00 a.m., 11th Floor Goode Building/Jackson Hospital; Women’s Enrichment Bible Study and Lunch, 11:45 am- 12:40 pm. Call 387-0566 for info. 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. 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 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. 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 $2.50. Contact NeeNee Webb at 834-8990. Frazer mom2mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of ages birth to 5 at Frazer UMC to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. Email Mom2mom@frazerumc.org. 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 says: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Tutors, prayer-warriors, and office/clerical volunteers needed for the Montgomery City Jail Ministry & G.E.D program. Opportunities are ongoing. No experience or certification necessary. Contact Pastor Anderson T. Graves II, at hallmemorialcme1@aol.com. Call 334-288-0577. The City Jail ministry is an in-reach ministry of Hall Memorial CME Church, 541 Seibles Road, Montgomery.

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Macedonia Miracle Kingdom & Worship Center (MMKWC), 3070 Selma Highway, Montgomery, services are Sunday School and New Members Class, 9:00 a.m., Morning Worship, 10:45 a.m.; Tuesday Night Bible Class, 7:00 p.m. and Friday Night Prayer, 6:00 p.m. (BOTH at The Pattern-Mt Meigs Road) Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, invites all to Wonderful Wednesdays starting with a $3-5 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 7th-9th graders at 7:00 pm. 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.

Open Door Christian Faith Worship Center, 2450 Presidents Drive, Montgomery, holds Sunday School at 9:00. Sunday Morning worship 10:45. Wednesday night Bible study 6:00. Youth Sunday Every 2nd Sunday. Women’s Prayer Monday 6:00. Our Mission is producing believers who make an impact on a fallen society. Motto: Living –Loving-Praying and Walking In The Spirit of Excellence. William E. Cromblin, Pastor. For information call 334-270-6498.

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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@ 272-3174. 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.

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River City Church, 301 Dexter Avenue, offers a Friday Christian Night Club (free of alcohol and smoking) with Ballroom Dancing every Friday at 6:30 P.M. Cost $10 for a one hour lesson, devotional, and 3 hours of DJ music. All denominations welcome. 7:30-10:30 open dance floor. The River of Life Church, located at 116 County Road 40 E (in the Pine Level Community Center) Prattville. Pastor Nick Edwards invites you to a “Place of New Beginnings”, where families come and grow together. Church Service Schedule: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Sunday School; 11:00 a.m. Morning Worship; 5:00 p.m. Evening Worship. Wednesday

6:00 p.m. Adult Bible Study, Teens (Genesis Project), Jr. High (Limitless), Royal Rangers, MPact Girls, Rainbow’s/Noah’s Zoo Club. Thursday 9:00 a.m.Women of Grace Bible Study. Nursery provided. Call the church office 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! 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. 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) 3541897. Bible Study is held each Wednesday, 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. For info call 286.8577. 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. Vision Full Gospel Ministries, 163 Rifle Range Road, Montgomery, holds Bible Study Tues. Night 7:00 p.m., Pray & Praise 2nd & 4th Thurs. Night 7:00 p.m., Sunday School 9:30 am, Sunday Worship Service 10:45 a.m., Internet radio-homecominggospel.com Sunday 3:00p.m. Central & 4:00 p.m. Eastern. and Satellite Radio -wlsg 1340am Sunday 3:00p.m. Women at The Well Ministry invites you to attend its women’s fellowship at 1 pm 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. All women of all denominations or race are welcome. This ministry is available to teenagers as well. For info contact Evangelist Dr. Linda McCall, 334-220-1924.

Send your events to deanne@ readjourneymagazine.com. 35

December 2015

River Region’s Journey

Q. Our son is a senior in college. We all signed a contract before he left for school a few years ago stating that we would pay for school and provide him a car to drive as long as he maintained good grades and behaved in a respectful and mature manner. Over the last couple of years, his grades have dropped and he’s been acting more and more disrespectful. We learned recently that he even told a family friend that he hated us. My husband went to confront him about his behavior and this statement, and our son admitted he said it and was unrepentant. My husband immediately took the car and cut off his cell phone, like we had agreed. But now, I just feel sick with worry. Did we do the right thing? A. I’m sure you do feel sick inside. If you

didn’t feel that way to some extent, you’d be a terrible person. This is your child we’re talking about. And even though he brought this on himself by being a twerp, and you guys are simply following through on the agreement, it hurts you because you’re human — and a good mom.

River Region’s Journey

December 2015

It may seem extreme to some folks, but what you guys did wasn’t capricious or arbitrary. There was a deal in place, and he knew the terms of the contract. If someone worked for me and did or said or tweeted the kind of stuff you’re talking about, I’d fire them on the spot. This kid has got to learn how to behave in the culture and that there are consequences for breaking your word and violating contracts. But here’s some good news for you. You married a real man — a strong and loving man. What he did took a ton of strength and courage. There are so many wimps in our culture today, but you married a good one. And whether this kid realizes it or not, he’s got one heck of a dad who really cares. I’ll give you a prediction. Within 30 days, your kid comes home wagging his tail behind him. Even if he’s stubborn, being hungry and strapped for cash — along with losing his wheels — will solve a lot of that. From diapers until they’re out of the house, and even after they’re out of the house, you make a lot of those kinds of calls if you’re a good parent.

Q. I’m 45 years old and a single mom. I have a decent job, but I want to go back to school to become a nurse. The money would be much better than what I make now, but I’d have to take out student loans to make this happen. Is it worth the risk? A. Is nursing a field worth pursuing, es-

pecially when it is something you love and would increase your income significantly? You bet! Nursing is a very honorable profession. Am I going to tell you to take out loans to make it happen? Absolutely not! Save as much as you possibly can first — even if it’s just a little each month. Then, I want you to look into Pell Grants, traditional and non-traditional scholarships and what I call the “indentured servitude” program. There’s still something of a nurse shortage in this country, and there are hospitals and drug companies that will agree to pay your school bills if you go to work for them afterwards for a specific number of years. Gaining knowledge and improving yourself and your career prospects are all good things. But stay away from student loan debt. It’s bad and unnecessary!

Vaccine is the best method to prevent influenza (flu), pneumococcal disease (pneu), and reduce complications. FLU VACCINE

PNEU VACCINE

• Recommended for 6 months of age and older

• Recommended for 2 months to 5 years and 65 years and older

• Available types include: nasal mist, high-dose, under the skin, egg-free, or 3-4 strains

• Two vaccines protect against 13 and 23 strains of pneumonia

• Vaccine can be given from September - March each year

• Risk groups and all adults 65 years should receive both vaccines

For more information, contact your healthcare provider, county health department, or community vaccinators.

The

Living Christmas Tree December 11 • 7 pm December 12 • 4 & 7 pm December 13 • 4 & 7 pm

For tickets, call 334.241.5156 or online at

www.thelivingchristmastree.org

No offering will be taken during the presentation. $5 per ticket suggested.

Celebrating the Joy of Christmas 305 South Perry Street | Montgomery, AL 36104 | 334.834.6310 | www.montgomeryfbc.org

Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship You are invited to this very special experience for the entire family.

3:30 & 5:00 pm | Main Sanctuary