River Region's Journey Christian Magazine (March 2021) by KeepSharing

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• It’s safe, simple, and free of charge. • It could keep you from getting COVID-19. If you still get COVID-19, it could keep you from becoming seriously ill. • It will help you do your part to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of your family, your friends and your community. • It’s an mRNA vaccine. These types of vaccines have been studied for more than two decades to evaluate their safety and effectiveness. • It’s the first step toward life returning to normal.

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Volume 22, Issue 12

Feature Articles

MARCH 2 0 2 1 Columns page 2

Publisher’s Note

page 8

Faith @ Work: Becca Rhea Frederick We had the pleasure of sitting down with Becca Rhea Frederick, owner and operator of Barnyard Boarding. She shares how her work with animals and their owners is a daily reminder of how God cares for us, tending to our daily needs and loving us deeply.

Jason Watson

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Pastor's Perspective Grady Smith, Gateway Baptist Church

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Moments with Kym Kym Klass

page 16

Women Arising

page 12

The Essence of Jesus

Pastor Kemi Searcy

page 22

The Intersection

by Scott Sauls

There may be no better and more complete summary of who Jesus is and what he is like than his seven “I AM” statements from John’s gospel. His statements about himself are also statements about who you are to him.

Bob Crittenden

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Counselor’s Corner Avery Berry, M.Ed., ALC, NCC

page 28

Dave $ays page 18

Dave Ramsey

New Leaf Consignment Furniture Galleries by Katie Blair

Discover a Wetumpka business (and church) that’s furnishing the community with hope and compassion. Everything you donate, consign or buy helps fund church staff and, in turn, serve the local area.

In Every Issue page 6

Books to Read page 8

Faith @ Work page 26

Support Groups March 2021

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

Research Editor Wendy McCollum

Contributing Writers Avery Berry, M.Ed., ALC, NCC Katie Blair Bob Crittenden Kym Klass Dave Ramsey Scott Sauls Kemi Searcy Dr. David Steele Grady Smith

Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson ads@readjourneymagazine.com (334) 213-7940 ext 702

Digital Manager Scott Davis

Ad Design

Tim Welch, Welch Designs

From the Publisher My View of Easter Has Changed Written across the bottom of this Polaroid in my mother’s cursive reads “Easter 1978”. Clinched tightly in my brother’s hands and mine, posing there in the front yard, are the glorious treasures of Easter morning. Peeps, Chocolate Bunnies, Cadbury Eggs, and what seemed like a never ending supply of jelly beans that filled the bottoms of our wicker baskets. If you look closely you can tell by the way dad is gripping my shoulder that my candy buzz was in full affect. Then Easter Changed. A few years later I transitioned my Easter focus from candy to clothing. At 13 years old, walking into church on Easter morning meant one thing – impress the girls in Sunday School! My poly-linen blend Spring Green sport coat from Gayfers was just what I needed to get the job done. Throw in one of my dad’s pastel ties, triple knotted so it didn’t hang too low, and I’d have new girlfriends lined up for months. In those days Easter was like every other major holiday. It was a fun and special day to get gifts, eat amazing food, and gather with family. Then Easter Changed. I knew about sin because it came up when I was asked to read a verse in Sunday School. Plus, my mom taught me that Jesus had died for my sins. I even prayed the “Sinner’s Prayer” a few times to make sure I got into heaven. Yes, I knew about sin. I just didn’t think I had much of a sinning problem. I was a good kid. Good enough that is, and definitely not as bad as the real sinners I’d met in school or seen on MTV. Thankfully, God decided to reveal to me my sinful heart, and He let me loose for a season to do as I please. I wallowed in sin like a pig in slop until my life was a mess. Then the day came when He placed in my heart a desire to be with Him more than the world. I was embarrassed to approach God, ashamed of my actions. Then Easter Changed. Hearing that Jesus died for your sins doesn’t matter much when you don’t think you’re a sinner. But today I know I’m a sinner. I struggle daily to obey God and not live for self. God has revealed and proven time and time again that His ways are better, but the sinful side of me still disobeys. Yet, God’s Spirit leads me to His love and grace that was revealed fully on the cross and in the resurrection of Jesus on that original Easter weekend. Now, by the redeeming work of the Father, Son and Spirit, even though I am flawed by sin, I seek to walk out His ways and glorify His name. Living as God’s child clothed in the righteousness of Jesus who died and rose on my behalf. This year, I invite you to see Easter for what it truly is and the good news it offers sinners like me and you. “He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him.” Psalm 103:10-13

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 2021 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

March 2021

EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY, SORROW, AND HOPE OF

HOLY WEEK Palm Sunday: March 28, 9:30am Maundy Thursday: April 1, 6:00pm Good Friday: April 2, 12:00pm & 6:00pm Great Vigil of Easter: April 3, 8:00pm Easter Day: April 4, 9:30am

8800 VAUGHN ROAD, MONTGOMERY, AL 36117 | WWW.CHRISTCHURCHANGLICAN.NET | 334.387.0566 March 2021 River Region’s Journey 3

Pastor’s Perspective by Grady Smith, Gateway Baptist Church

Is There Any Hope? With all of the uncertainty around us, I find myself drawn to the lyrics of a song from Andrew Peterson titled “Is He Worthy?” In it, he asks: Do you feel the world is broken? Do you feel the shadows deepen? Do you wish you could see it all made new? Each time the answer is simply, “We do.” Perhaps you feel the weight of those questions as you walk through trials and hardships. The reality of the trials we face leads us to ask: Is there any hope? This Easter season we have an amazing opportunity to find hope – a hope that is not based on ourselves, on other people, or on our circumstances. 1 Peter 1:3-7 describes for us the hope we can have: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Accord-

River Region’s Journey

March 2021

ing to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith-- more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire-- may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” Notice that God never promises a trial-free or a pain-free life. Verse 6 acknowledges that we will be grieved by trials in this life. We find the same truth in James 1:2 which says, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds.” Yet, the promise of hardships in life does not lead us to despair or hopelessness. Notice that in the same paragraph where Peter acknowledges trials, he also points us to a “living hope” in Christ. This hope is very different than just wishful thinking. Hope in Scripture is a sure confidence in something. What things, then, can we be confident in because of what Christ has done – because of what we are celebrating this Easter season? 1 Peter 1 shows us several. First, we can be 4

confident in “His great mercy” (1 Peter 1:3). We can be confident that our sins are forgiven through Christ’s sacrifice in our place. Second, we can be confident that God uses the hardships of life for good. In 1 Peter 1:7 above, as well as in James 1:24, we see that God redeems our trials for our growth and for His glory. Third, we can be confident that our future with God is sure. Peter says we have an “inheritance… kept in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:4). We can be confident that if we are in Christ, then eternity in God’s presence is coming. It will be a time when all the brokenness is healed, the shadows go away, and we get to see everything made new. This type of confidence and hope is not dependent on us. This type of hope is a grace gift from God – only God can give it. 1 Peter 1:3 tells us that “He [God] has caused” us to have this living hope. Just a few verses later we are told that it is “by God’s power” that we are being guarded. There is such hope knowing that God does these things for us that we could never do ourselves. The song I referenced at the beginning reminds me of that hope. It also asks these questions: Does the Father truly love us? Does the Spirit move among us? And does Jesus our Messiah hold forever those He loves? The answer to each question quite simply is “He does.” Can you confidently say that? Do you know that your sins are forgiven? Do you know that God is holding you in the trials and bringing good out of them? Do you know that eternity in God’s presence awaits? I pray that this Easter season each of us grow in being rooted in this living hope.

Grady Smith is pastor of Gateway Baptist Church at 3300 Bell Road in Montgomery. Learn more at www.gatewaybaptist.com.

Find A Making a connection with a Christian church is one of the most powerful steps you can take to grow closer to God.

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The churches listed below have partnered with River Region’s Journey. Please consider visiting one of these excellent churches this week.

Help Light the River Region with the Good News

…

Christchurch Anglican (Ad on pg 3)

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8800 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery, AL 36117 Father Andrew Rowell www.christchurchmgm.net (334) 387-0566

Dalraida United Methodist Church (Ad on pg 19)

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3817 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery, AL 36109 Pastor Mike Cobb www.dalraidaumc.org (334) 272-2190

First Baptist Church Montgomery (Ad on Back Cover) 305 South Perry Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Pastor Mark Bethea www.montgomeryfbc.org (334) 834-6310

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First Baptist Church Prattville (Ad on pg 13)

138 S Washington St, Prattville, AL 36067 Pastor Dr. Peyton Hill www.fbcprattville.org (334) 365-0606

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First Presbyterian Church Prattville (Ad on pg 22)

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River Region’s Journey 20,000 high-character readers at an exceptional price Deep engagement with ad placement alongside encouraging content Advertising support that spreads the Gospel

220 S Chestnut St, Prattville, AL 36067 Pastor Bryant Hansen www.fpcministries.org (334) 365-6387

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Frazer United Methodist Church (Ad on pg 15) 6000 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery, AL 36117 Dr. Chris Montgomery www.frazer.church (334) 272-8622

Gateway Baptist Church (Ad on pg 17) 3300 Bell Rd, Montgomery, AL 36116 Pastor Grady Smith www.gatewaybaptist.com (334) 272-9494 n

Let’s Light the River Region Together. Call 213-7940 ext 703 jwatson@keepsharing.com March 2021

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Rejoice & Tremble

How to Eat Your Bible

Michael Reeves

Carl R. TruemanNate Pickowicz

I’ll never forget my visit to St. Andrews Chapel in Sanford, Florida. It was a rare opportunity to see Dr. R.C. Sproul preach. I entered the sanctuary to a bustle of people. Some were visiting. Others were preparing to enter the sanctuary. After several minutes of exploring, I made my way into the sanctuary. Posted above the main entryway were words that said in essence, “You are moving from the profane to the holy.” I made my way to the fourth row where I engaged in some conversation with others. Before I knew it, an older woman seated in front of me turned around to face me, put one finger to her mouth, and made it clear that this was not the time to chit-chat. This woman was convinced that we had moved from the profane to the holy. Is it any wonder that R.C. Sproul says, “We have made our worship services more secular than sacred, more common than uncommon, more profane than holy.” Tragically, many churches fail to see the gravity of worship. They have turned worship into a threestage circus. One of the most reoccurring themes in Scripture is the command to fear the Lord. Michael Reeves drives this point home in his recent book, Rejoice & Tremble: The Surprising Good News of the Fear of the Lord. Reeves argues strenuously and persuasively that “the fear of God is just the tonic we need.” Few books have been written that explore the theme of fearing God, so Dr. Reeves’s book is a much-welcomed and muchneeded guest. In a stroke of biblical genius, the author distinguishes between “sinful fear” and “right fear.” It appears that many people have misunderstood what it means to fear God. Reeves is set on correcting this dilemma. Rejoice & Tremble will challenge and encourages readers and push them forward in ways that are God-honoring. Indeed, this is only the tip of the iceberg as Michael Reeves challenges followers of Christ to make their ascent to the summit of God’s glory. In the end, as the author makes clear, the fear of the Lord subdues and eliminates fears that plague the people of God.

Reading the Bible is one of the most neglected spiritual disciplines in our day. Well-intentioned people set the Word of God aside for a multitude of reasons, none of which are valid excuses. How to Eat Your Bible, by Nate Pickowicz, provides a biblical corrective as well as a prescription for moving forward in a way that promotes spiritual health and vitality. One of the great strengths of this book is its simplicity. It reads like a first-year Bible College text books for students needing some basic encouragement. Pickowicz begins by challenging readers to affirm the great worth of the Bible. Appealing to the Reformed principle of sola Scriptura, he urges readers to see that God’s Word is profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness (2 Tim. 3:16). But he also shows how the Bible radically changes God’s people when they read it, study it, meditate upon it, and memorize it. It changes our minds, spirits, emotions, and wills. Indeed, as Pickowicz writes, “The Word of God is sufficient to minister to every part of our condition and has the power to transform us in all the way of godliness.” The conclusion: The people of God should hunger and thirst for Scripture. The author also adds some basic exegetical and hermeneutical help that will serve readers well as they dig into Scripture. With that, he introduces the seven-year Bible study method. This approach is distinct from the typical strategy that encourages Bible readers to move from Genesis to Revelation in a year’s time. Pickowicz presents a strategy that he developed (inspired by John MacArthur’s method). The strategy involves reading books of the Bible multiple times with an eye on detail and a motive for understanding and transformation. How to Eat Your Bible should be required reading for every new Christian. But people who have been walking with God for some time will receive benefit from this excellent volume as well. In the end, the author is pleading for people to open their Bibles and be revolutionized. River Region’s Journey

March 2021

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The Theatre Tour with TobyMac, Cochren & Co. Monday, April 26, 2021 at 7:00 pm Montgomery PAC at the Renaissance Montgomery, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 For more information, visit itickets.com or call 334-481-5110.

Email your events to deanne@readjourneymagazine.com!

Celebrate Easter with Frazer 6000 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery or visit www.frazerumc.org Holy Week Daily Services: March 29-April 3, 6 pm. Journey with Jesus to the Cross Through the Gospel of Matthew Easter Sunday, April 4: 8 am Blended Worship, 9:30 am Traditional Worship 11 am Contemporary Worship. All services will be live streaming and televised.

Church Holds Yard Sales Monthly Capital City Church of the Nazarene will hold yard sales on the first Saturday of every month from 7:00 til noon. There is something for everyone! 4450 Vaughn Road, Montgomery For more information call 334-272-8176.

Experience Holy Week at Christchurch Anglican 8800 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Palm Sunday: March 28, 9:30 am Maundy Thursday: April 1, 6 pm Good Friday, April 2, 12 pm and 6 pm Great Vigil of Easter: April 3, 8 pm Easter Day: April 4, 9:30 am Visit www.christchurchanglican.net.

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RRJ: As Christians, our primary purpose in life is to glorify God. In what ways are you able to glorify Him in your occupation or while at work? Becca: I am able to glorify God in the way I treat the animals in my care. I choose everyday to treat the animals like they are family to me. I always treat them with the love and respect that I would want with my own pets. RRJ: For most of us, family plays an important role in our lives. In what ways has your family been instrumental in your faith journey? Becca: My parents have always taught me to follow the path that Christ has set me upon. They have always encouraged me to learn more about myself and my journey with God and to live out what I have learned. RRJ: For Christians who struggle to live their faith beyond the church walls, what encouragement would you give them? Today we have the pleasure of sitting down with Becca Rhea Frederick, owner and operator of Barnyard Boarding. She shares with us how her work with animals and their owners is a daily reminder of how God cares for us, tending to our daily needs and loving us deeply. Becca, who feels that working with the animals she cares for is God’s calling in her life, shares with us how she lives out her faith at work and in her daily walk with the Lord.

RRJ: Thank you so much for taking the time to share how your faith is at work out in the community where God has placed you. To begin with, how long have you been a follower of Christ? Becca: I have been a follower of Christ for 10 years. River Region’s Journey

March 2021

Becca: Find others who can walk with you in life. Become a part of a “life group” that can help remind you to continue to live out your faith every single day. RRJ: We have been living in strange times lately. What are some tools of the Christian faith that keep you focused on loving God and loving others? Becca: I have been listening to a lot of online worship services. This has helped me tremendously in staying focused. With in-person services being less available, I have found that making more time everyday for devotions helps to keep me aware of my actions and helps me through the days. RRJ: What do you enjoy most about your job? 8

Becca: My favorite thing about my job is simply the interactions I have with animals every day. Animals have always been my comfort in hard times. To me, animals have always been a way for me to see God in my daily life.They freely share love and comfort with everyone around them. This always reminds me how I need to be as a Christian walking through life. RRJ: How does your Christian faith shape the way you approach your job? Becca: It affects how I treat the clients that come in as well as the animals. With Christ on my side, I treat them with love. I always treat everyone who comes into my business with fairness and friendship. RRJ: Faith@Work is about living your faith wherever God has placed you. In your work with animals and their owners, how does being a Christ follower fuel your actions each day? Becca: My faith helps me get through the tough days. Dealing with animals, you never know what you are going to find when you walk into the boarding room in the mornings. One day you might see spilled water all across the floor or a dog bed completely destroyed by a chewing puppy. My faith helps me and reminds me that not everyday is going to be a difficult one. I am reminded daily that Christ can help me through every problem and situation.

Becca is the owner and operator of Barnyard Boarding, which offers domestic & exotic pet daycare, boarding and grooming. Becca’s business is located in Hope Hull, Alabama where she lives and attends Hope Hull United Methodist Church. When she is not taking care of her client’s animals, she enjoys reading, crocheting, spending time with family and taking care of her own personal pets. You can find Becca on Facebook at Barnyard Boarding.

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Doing What You’re Called to Do It’s a story I’ve shared countless times, but one that is able to explain how I found my way. I was a freshman at Southwest Texas State University, and an elementary education major – determined to follow in my mother’s footsteps. She had died less than a year prior to me setting foot on my college campus and I wanted to be every part of who she was as a human. “I’ll carry on her name,” I told myself and my father. Enter the “Music for Elementary Education Teachers” class. Three times a week, an hour each meeting, we were taught how to play a recorder and the organ – and then taught how to teach children to play. At the end of the semester, we took an arm full of recorders and visited a local elementary school, distributing them among the children in a classroom. Within seconds, they all began blowing them. All at once. All very loud. No, no, no. The following day, I declared English my major. True story. I was 18 years old, and told my academic advisor about what happened, and that, “Oh, my gosh. I can’t do that. So many kids. So much noise.” I loved my mother, and missed her terribly, but her path wasn’t mine. For two years, I flip-flopped between English, back to Elementary Education, and back to English. I was completely unsure of my future. And I panicked at age 20 that I didn’t know what I would do FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE. River Region’s Journey

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Remember those days? I met a friend of a friend who knew I wanted to make some extra money, and he suggested I write for the university’s newspaper... because they paid. So, timidly – I am an introvert – I walked into the newspaper office and asked if I could write an article. I was assigned to write about two professors on my campus who had authored a book. I called them and asked questions. They answered them, and I wrote my first article. And I thought, “I can do this. I can make a difference, and a living, doing this.” It was humbling. And it was then I felt relaxed and at peace for the first time in a couple of years at school. I found my calling, my purpose in serving, and spent more than 20 years in the newspaper business telling story after story. Throughout those decades, I knew I was making a difference in the lives of others. Through my words, yes, but through their stories and vulnerability to share. It was a privilege to meet every single person.

We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them. Romans 8:28 I called my father after I knew in my heart that I had secured my future, and 10

told him I would soon declare Mass Communication-Print Journalism as my major. He asked, “How much more school am I paying for?” Fair question. We still laugh about it more than two decades later.

But, still. Our talents and gifts, which we use for our calling, are not chosen by us. God endows us with these gifts and talents. We are called by Him. – Women of Noble Character My job didn’t define me, but what I was able to do through it for so long defined my passion.

In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. – Proverbs 16:9 It reminds me of the saying, “We make plans, and God laughs.” I went to college wanting to continue my mother’s legacy. To reach out to children and nurture them the way she did. That was her calling. I walked onto campus in the fall of 1989 resolute in my plan. And there was misstep after misstep – and every sign I was on the wrong path – until I walked into the journalism building not knowing my future was on the other side of the door. I never picked up another recorder again.

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In a Couple Relationship?

Come join us for a series of free “couples education classes”— enjoy time with your partner & learn about healthy relationships!* We are looking for couples to participate in a paid evaluation study in partnership through Family Guidance Center of Alabama and Auburn University. Pre-register now! All couples who register and complete a survey can choose either a weekly or monthly series.** Each class series will be taught using: ELEVATE, a relationship education program that teaches couples how to take their relationship skills to the next level by focusing on 7 core relationship skills. Learn more about ELEVATE in the video on our website at familyguidancecenter.org

Classes begin in April 2021. Class size is limited. Register TODAY to ensure your spots! *Dinner and Child Care will be provided **All individuals in all groups will be compensated for their time completing fourprogram evaluation surveys (each will take 45-60 minutes to complete). Each person can earn up to $160 over one year for completing the program evaluation surveys, or $320 per couple. Couples can earn an additional $80 by completing all 6 ELEVATE sessions together.

For more information about FREE relationship classes, visit familyguidancecenter.org and click on Life is Fun Together (LIFT). Pre-registration is required. Have questions or want to register? Contact Tonya at (334) 270-4100 or trogers@familyguidancecenter.org TODAY!

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• Auburn University • College of Human Sciences

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r Funding for this project was provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Grant: #90ZB0007. These services are available to all eligible persons, regardless of race, gender, age, disability or religion. © 2020 Alabama Healthy Marriage and Relationship Education

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There may be no better and more complete summary of who Jesus is and what he is like than his seven “I AM” statements from John’s gospel.

truth, makes beauty, and creates hospitable space from an otherwise dark, cold, impersonal universe. In the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, he provides us with “a lamp unto our feet, and a light unto our path” to help us walk in the grace, truth, and wisdom. In his own self, Jesus unveils to us what God is like. If we have seen him, we have seen the Father (John 8:12, 9:5; Psalm 119:105; John 14:9).

These seven statements are an autobiography of sorts, as well as a blueprint for how he insists on relating to us – and us to him. I encourage you to read each brief description below slowly. As you do, allow enough time for each one to travel from your eyes into your head, and then from your head into your heart.

Jesus said, “I am the door of the sheep.” This is

one of two I AM statements in which Jesus identifies believers as his sheep. The metaphor is not a flattering one. Rather, it is a realistic assessment of our helpless estate. Sheep are characteristically needy, temperamental, wayward, and vulnerable creatures. Jesus responds to the frail estate of the sheep by offering himself as their gateway to the care, comfort, healing, and guidance they (we) sorely need (John 10:7, 9).

His statements about himself, as I hope you’ll see, are also statements about who you are to him.

Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd.” As the good

Jesus said, “I am the bread of life.” As the bread of

shepherd, Jesus again offers himself as provider and protector of his sheep (John 10:11, 14). In him we find rest from our weariness, a balm for our wounds, and the cure for whatever ails us. As the Good Shepherd, he lays down his very life for us to ensure our care, protection, and flourishing. He is the definition of a servant-leader and a heroic, self-donating champion.

life, Jesus provides the sustenance we need for survival and flourishing. Every bit of food, shelter, and clothing we have received can be traced to his merciful heart and caring hands. Jesus goes even further and becomes our sustenance as he offers his body and blood in the Lord’s Supper, shelters us beneath the shadow of his protective, nurturing wings, and clothes us with the beauty of his hard-fought, blood-bought righteousness (John 6:35, 48, 51; Luke 22:19; Psalm 57:1; Isaiah 61:10).

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.” In his historic and bodily resurrection from the dead, of which over five hundred of his contemporaries claimed to be eyewitnesses, Jesus demonstrates his power and resolve to conquer death,

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.”

As the one who created and sustains the sun and stars, Jesus illuminates

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Jesus said, “I am the true vine.”

which is also our greatest fear and enemy. In Jesus, death is put to death, and with it, the spirit of slavery that leads to fear. His resurrection becomes a foretaste of our future, in which there will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain and everything will be made new. This promised future will be without end. Every day we will feel younger and stronger, wiser and more capable, happier and more satisfied, than we did the day before. It will be an abundant life whose chief feature is one of everlasting momentum. Our judgment day having been relocated from the future to the past, our best days are forever ahead of us, never behind us. Our long-term worst case scenario is to become like him, because we will see him as he is. Our long-term worst case scenario is resurrection, wholeness, life to the full, and elimination of all guilt, sorrow, and fear (John 11:25; 1 Corinthians 15:6; Romans 8:15; Revelation 21:1-8; 1 John 3:2).

As the true vine, Jesus is our life source, the well from whom we draw, our sustaining nourishment and strength. Apart from him, we can do nothing. But with him, we can run against a troop and leap over a wall. Whether living in plenty or in want, in joy or in sorrow, in sickness or in health, we can do all things through Christ the vine, who gives us strength (John 15:1; Psalm 18:28; Philippians 4:13). In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus makes one additional I AM statement to the sheep, who he also affectionately calls his little children. The I AM statement is also an invitation—not just any invitation, but the most hopeful one ever offered. Long before Jesus ever tells us to go or to do for him (that comes later), Jesus begins with an invitation to come to him. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened,” said the Maker of heaven and earth and everything that is in them, “and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:25, 28-30 – NIV). If these things are all true about Jesus (and they are, I’m here to tell you), what would stop us from wanting to know him more? If you do want to know him more, may I suggest that you begin by reading the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John? And if you don’t already have a church family where Jesus is preached and made much of every single Sunday, may I suggest that you find and join one? I think you’ll really be glad you said “yes” to such things.

Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”

Nowhere does Jesus present himself as one way to God, as if there were multiple options and pathways. Rather, he presents himself as the way to God, as the only qualified mediator between a holy God and a sinful humanity. He is the one name given by which we can be saved from the wearying effects of guilt, sorrow, and fear. Jesus, and only Jesus, can provide ultimate refuge from all that is broken and horrid and tragic in the world, in human systems, in other people, and in ourselves (John 14:6; 1 Timothy 2:5; Acts 4:12).

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Scott Sauls is a pastor, author and blogger. He heads Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, TN.

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River Region’s Journey

Are You Fighting More and Enjoying It Less? Recipe for a heated argument: Take 1 group of people (a family). Mix it with close proximity (a house). Bake it in a 24/7 oven for unknown duration. Makes a batch full of contention. As we become relieved at the possibilities of what a vaccine can do in the upcoming months; as we look at the grim prospect of new strains of virus and a rise in cases and death; there are still uncertainties about our future. Some families have shared that they have definitely drawn closer during the quarantine. Yet others are not experiencing homey bliss. What makes the difference? Did the successful, happy families never have any arguments? Often Christian counselors have coined the term “intense fellowship” for arguments within Christian families. Our discussions can be intense and can have long-term effects if we don’t look at what is behind the disagreements. My sister-in-Christ Josslyn has been married to husband Rick for more than 50 years. She said that the two worst fights she had with her husband set the stage for a labelling system of future arguments. The first fight was when they were still dating. They were on a youth retreat to Europe so were a bit isolated as to a normal daily structure. The disagreement began with a discussion about whether there were more coffee or tea drinkers in the world. Rick stood strongly for coffee drinkers and Josslyn was sure that tea was king. The fight heated up so much that they broke up...for a good 24 hours. The second argument came after they were married and their daughter was only three days old. As they looked at her lovingly in the crib, they began to argue about how to pay for her college education. River Region’s Journey

March 2021

Silence between them lasted at least two days. Josslyn and Rick determined that most arguments are based on two principles they learned from these two marker fights. The coffee/tea argument was about something that really didn’t matter much in the overall scheme of things. In fact, it was pretty dumb to fuss about it. The college fund fight displayed really poor timing. The discussion should have taken place when at least the child was talking! From then on, the couple filtered future disagreements through these two lenses: bad timing or not very important. Many of our relational issues are based on the two principles Josslyn and Rick learned. During the extension of quarantine, we need to know how to avoid letting the situation create poor timing in any discussion with our spouse or children. We also must work to eliminate arguments that do not have any primary importance. In other words, we need to gain perspective. 2 Timothy 2:23-24: Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil. We must realize we have choices when we disagree with another person: 1. Should we press the issue beyond its worth or be quiet? Both of these respons16

es could be wrong based on the importance of the topic. 2. Do we really need to resolve this now? 3. Can we learn how to communicate in a way that the other person can hear our heart without either of us becoming defensive? 4. Might we declare time outs to think rather than speak? 5. Can we keep the discussion in the “how I feel” level rather than decreeing your opinion as the truth and nothing but the truth? 6. Is it possible to declare a permanent truce or end to the discussion? Can we agree to disagree? Look at the pictures of family members you have displayed on your walls or on your dresser. Remember, they are also stuck with you in your home. These beautiful loved ones deserve your best, not your worst. As you push forward to complete your time of quarantine, help create an experience or two that will make you closer. Learning to communicate during disagreements is a lesson that children need to learn before they find their significant other in the future. Romans 14:19: So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. P.S. By the way, there are more coffee drinkers than tea drinkers. And Josslyn and Rick still disagree about how they paid for their child’s college education, but they compromised and the graduation took place.

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Our Statement of Faith In keeping with Protestant theology, we believe that the Bible, as contained in the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments, is fully inspired by God and therefore inerrant in the original manuscripts. The Bible is the only essential and infallible record of God’s self-disclosure to mankind. The Scriptures are the authoritative and normative rule and guide of all Christian life, practice, and doctrine. They are totally sufficient and must not be added to, superseded, or changed by later tradition, extra-biblical revelation, or worldly wisdom. The Bible is perfect in every way and shows us how to become and live as Christians. The way of becoming a Christian is by faith alone in Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, who came to us, born of a virgin, in full human form while remaining fully God. Jesus was, and is, perfect, and was crucified so that others could live. Three days later He rose from the dead, never to die again. He ascended into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God the Father, where He, the only mediator between God and man, continually makes intercession for His own. Those who have faith in Jesus as their Lord in this life, and Savior from damnation in the next life, now live by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, becoming more like Jesus everyday. We believe that God is one God. The one God has three persons: the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Just as God is one, so also, all believers are to be one. We believe in the unity and fellowship of all those that have faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. We are one in Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church, His Body, which is composed of all men, living and dead, who have been joined to Him through saving faith. *All editorial content published needs to be in agreement with our Statement of Faith

March 2021

River Region’s Journey

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by Katie Blair

Ministry takes many hands and feet to do the work of the mission. That is something that Rebecca Healey knows all too well. When she and her husband Trip planted Ridge Church, they knew that God was leading them to minister to the Wetumpka area and beyond, but it was going to require hiring people to make the church plant grow. So, she and the church team got creative in order to meet the financial needs of the growing congregation. That creativity brought about a way to fund the church staff and brought the residents of the River Region a place to find home furnishings and decor at a fraction of the price at New Leaf Consignment in Wetumpka, Alabama. “I have always been a bit of a thrifty, or cheap as I’m told, person, so yard sales, estate sales, auctions, and kids’ seasonal sales have always been more like hobbies to me than anyRiver Region’s Journey

March 2021

thing,” shares Healey. “I started at age 18 owning booths in flea markets, buying the weekly bulletin board and placing ads, and selling items online when Craig’s List was a little more popular and there was no “Facebook Marketplace”. “When we planted Ridge Church in 2013, we needed a way to supplement our income, so my resell business just grew from there. When we adopted our daughter in 2016, we raised more than $20,000 solely through resell and kid’s clothing consignment. So in 2017 when we got ready to hire more people at Ridge Church and we didn’t want to spend the money donated to the church to do it, we decided to get creative. New Leaf Consignment was born. This place was born with a desire to support the staff who were also in ministry, to support the vision of our local outreach, and to grow in a way that Ridge Church 18

would never have to be the only income that our family and our staff families live on...so that we can give away more money donated. This Scripture is a huge part of that vision: ‘We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you.’” (2 Thessalonians 3:7-8) The store has been a good fit for the church and ministry within the community. “We felt that if we could work a business during the week, where we get to do ministry on a daily basis and support our staff families, then we could be a blessing in so many ways. We talk about business as a mission mindset, and we look at our business as a way to do ministry every day, even when we aren’t gathering as a church,” Healey said. Many people have not shopped in a consignment store and may expect more of a thrift store environment, where there is an ever changing, eclectic mix of donated items when they arrive. “New Leaf is a consignment store because it is a place where you can sell your items and the store makes a portion

of the proceeds, rather than a thrift store where you donate your items. We do however have some people who donate their items as well, and 100% of those proceeds go to our Ridge Church ‘Show It’ Fund,” explained Healey. “That fund was started in 2016 when we adopted our daughter, Showy. We said we didn’t want to just talk about ministry or generosity, rather we wanted to SHOW IT. We use our Show It fund to bless people in our community in numerous ways, through

local non-profits, home renovations, food handouts, gifts for kids, taking care of local educators, and so much more.”

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March 2021

River Region’s Journey

Healey said that New Leaf is much more than a place to buy quality items while helping the community. “Ridge Church was planted with a vision to create a church with the unchurched in mind. We wanted to create a place where people who either had never been to church or had experienced something difficult in church would feel comfortable to show up and bring someone. When we started New Leaf, we knew it would be a place where people could come buy and sell their items, support the ministry, but also it’s been a place where

we have had the opportunity to pray with, cry with, counsel, and give away more furniture than I can count. I graduated with a counseling degree over 10 years ago, and I’ve used it more in my three years at New Leaf doing business than ever before. We encounter people going through so much trauma and so many transitions, from losing loved ones, to losing jobs and needing cash, going through a divorce, sending kids off to college, getting their first house, selling a large house to consolidate, getting married and combining households, and so much more. So not only have we been able to further the ministry of Ridge Church, but we have been able to serve and care for people who will never walk through the doors on a Sunday morning.” Healey also said that shopping with New Leaf not only supports ministry, but the community as a whole. “I have always been a huge supporter of local business, and we tell people to shop local all the

time. When you shop local, you support families who are paying their bills. When you shop local, you support our local economy and school systems. When you shop local, you support friends. When you shop New Leaf, you support friends and family who are doing ministry together, as well as the local community who will be given thousands of dollars in food and furniture and support this year.” For people wanting to downsize or just freshen up their spaces, Healey said consignment shopping is the way to go. “If you have furniture or decor that you want to sell, think of us next time. I think that our best selling feature is that we will come do all the labor. Our guys will come pick up your furniture, bring it to the store, and sell it for you! No strangers in your home, except us, and no hassle. Plus, we offer trades so if you’ve been looking to change things up but don’t have the budget to do so, then you can talk to us about doing some swaps. We love a good trade-in as it helps everyone find something NEW to them. During the pandemic we have also seen a LOT of people doing cleanouts and updates, and if you haven’t tried

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River Region’s Journey

March 2021

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Don’t Miss These Upcoming Events! Join New Leaf Consignment on Saturday, April 3rd for their Spring Cleaning Easter Clearance and Sidewalk Sale and at Wetumpka High School on Sunday, April 4th for our Easter Together Service at Ridge Church. Services start at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Chalk Paint by Annie Sloan, then you are missing out. You can update your furniture without breaking the bank. We have seen people do some incredible work over the last year, and people have transformed their home with a few cans of paint and wax. If you’ve never tried Chalk Paint, then let us convince you that anyone can do it. You don’t need to be an artist to update your home. We teach workshops, and we even do free in-store consultations.” New Leaf is looking forward to spring and Easter Weekend, Healey said. “Our next BIG Events take place Easter Weekend! Join us at New Leaf Consignment on Saturday, April 3rd for our Spring Cleaning Easter Clearance and Sidewalk Sale and at Wetumpka High School on Sunday April 4th for our Easter Together Service at Ridge Church. Services start at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. and we would love for your family to stop by and worship with us.” If you are interested in learning more about New Leaf Consignment, Healey said it’s as simple as reaching out through email or looking them up on Facebook. “We strive to make our consignment and buyout process as smooth and hassle free as possible. If you’d like to sell something with us, just email photos to newleafwetumpka@gmail. com or message us on Facebook at facebook.com/newleafwetumpka! Don’t miss our weekly Facebook Live Videos at NOON on Fridays. We give a Storewide Tour and highlight our new arrivals each week. We also give away $50 or more gift cards with every Facebook Live! Honestly our Friday Facebook Lives have become our largest way to sell items since the Pandemic hit, as people shop right from their computers and then contact us to buy immediately.”

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Katie Blair is a freelance writer who has a deep interest in sharing stories about everyday people living extraordinary lives for Christ. She lives in Wetumpka, Alabama with her husband Steve, and their dog, Rosie. She is the mom of two young adult children and serves as a children’s ministry partner with Frazer Church.

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River Region’s Journey

Pray for Our Leaders We are instructed in Scripture to pray for our leaders, which is a great watchword following a contentious election season. 1st Timothy 2 states: “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. (NKJV).” Joe Biden has been inaugurated as the President of the United States, consistent with a peaceful transfer of power, even though in Washington, DC, there were threats of

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violence and increased security, in addition to social distancing rules as the result of the COVID pandemic. Whether you voted for Trump or Biden, and whether you believe the election was legitimate or not, as Christians we can all pray for our new President, his family, and his team. There were a number of prayer efforts that were initiated for the new Administration and others serving in our government. Focus on the Family sponsored an online prayer meeting the morning of the inauguration; ministry head, Jim Daly, said: “I can be extremely concerned with current circumstances—even burdened...But we’re called to act—and trust. Prayer is a powerful way to do just that, so we’re encouraging Christians around the nation to join us in corporate prayer for some of the most foundational aspects of our culture.” Franklin Graham wrote in a Decision Magazine article recently: “...it is critically important for followers of Jesus Christ to pray for those who will be making decisions that impact the future of our nation.” The son of an evangelist who ministered to a number of Presidents stated: “Pray for President-elect Joe Biden, that he would

not be swayed by the voices of self-interest, but that he would listen to the still small voice of Almighty God. Pray for him every day— that God would direct his decisions.” The Presidential Prayer Team, during its existence that began during the George W. Bush administration, has offered 100 days of prayer for a new president, including this actual prayer:

Heavenly Father, on this important day in the workings of our nation, we come to You with complete confidence, knowing that You are the magnificent and benevolent Controller of All Things. You have repeatedly assured us of the righteousness of Your plans, and we stand in wonder as we watch You working them out through people and events. We praise You, O Most High God. Amen. The Team has also launched, BOLD, which stands for Beside Our Leaders Daily, highlighting a new member of Congress daily. That is consistent with 1st Timothy 2. We recognize that our own prayers are powerful, and when Christians are praying according to the will of God, in the same direction, incredible things can take place. We are called not to be afraid in this world, and when you consider that there have been and continue to be moves to limit the voice of the Church, we have to dig deeply into our hearts and remember that greater is He who is in us than he who is in the world. We can remember that we have the power and presence of Almighty God with us to navigate difficult times. And, ultimately, He has a purpose - He is at work, He is sovereign, and we remember that He has established human government and is the one who raises up and brings down those who are leadership.

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12/21/20 3:59 PM

The Search for Self-Care If you’ve been conscious during 2020… or really any other year, then stress is a concept you may have encountered. An article written by the American Psychological Association reports that: “One-third of Americans are living with extreme stress and nearly half of Americans (48 percent) believe that their stress has increased over the past five years.” Stress is natural. It happens and the things that tend to cause one to feel stressed vary from person to person. So, how do we manage stress? I hope to shed some light on this question. Stress is a general term for what may be more narrowly described as emotional or physical tension. Abrupt or unexpected changes to our daily lives can cause us to experience tangible emotional or even physical distress. Some common emotional symptoms of stress may include irritability, feelings of nervousness, anger, feeling like you may cry, or feeling a lack of energy. Physical symptoms of stress may appear in the form of headaches, upset stomach, muscle tension, or changes in appetite. Again, stress is natural, and we all may experience stress at one point or another in our life, but how do we recognize when we are? One method is by practicing a skill known as mindfulness. Mindfulness is a technique often used in mental health counseling that works to draw attention to one’s state or consciousness. Basically, it means trying to pay attention to ourselves. It is easy to go on what I like to call “auto-pilot.” Imagine something for me for one second: think about your commute to River Region’s Journey

March 2021

work today or a time when you were traveling from one place to another. Can you think of everything you did from point A to point B? I would be surprised if you could. It’s easy to not be self-aware in moments like that, especially when it’s a route we’ve taken several times. This can happen in our daily lives as well. It’s common to lose touch with oneself and get out of the habit of focusing on how we feel mentally and physically. Mindfulness can be a helpful tool in reversing that habit. Something as simple as journaling can help draw our attention to our day, how we are feeling, and help us to gauge how we could manage our stress when we are feeling it. Once we develop a better understanding of ourselves and are able to recognize when we are stressed, self-care can step in to alleviate some of those negative experiences and feelings. Self-care comes in all shapes and sizes and varies person-to-person. The goal of self-care is basic: practice something that brings you peace. For some, it’s reading their Bible. For others, it could be taking a walk or watching a TV show that makes them smile every time. Finding something that you enjoy and that brings you a sense of peace and calm is a wonderful way to manage stress. However, sometimes the need is narrower. If someone, for example, is experiencing stress due to anxiety or depression, other forms of self-care may need to be implemented to bring about a better state of being. Healthy diet, exercise, and a consistent, positive sleep pattern are helpful forms of selfcare to manage these mental health concerns. The Bible addresses the concept of worry which is usually associated with anxiety and sometimes with stress. Matthew 6:34 says 24

“Be not therefore anxious for the morrow: for the morrow will be anxious for itself.” These words of Jesus are simple but modern psychology would agree with him. Focusing on today and what we can do today to help ourselves achieve what we want for our lives is more productive than toiling over what tomorrow will bring. Self-care takes time to develop as a habit. Practicing mindfulness to draw attention to how we are feeling and then developing a self-care plan to manage those feelings can be a helpful remedy to the stress and distress of everyday life. As a counselor, I would be remiss to not advocate for counseling when I’m talking about self-care. Counseling provides a space for us to open up about what is causing us to feel stress and, with the help of a trained professional, we can develop skills for managing that stress. For many, going to see a counselor a few times a year is as much a part of their self-care practice as going on a morning walk. I hope that this new year brings you less stress than previous years, but know that even if you do feel stressed, it’s okay. There are things you can do to help yourself, and there are people out there who are willing to help you.

Avery Berry is an Associate Licensed Counselor and a National Certified Counselor under the supervision of Rebecca Morris, Ed. S., NCC, LPC-S. He holds a Bachelor’s of Human Environmental Science in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Alabama and is a recent graduate of Auburn University where he obtained a Master’s of Education degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Avery has a great deal of experience working with individuals who are experiencing issues related to substance abuse, depression, and anxiety. Avery’s passions include interpersonal relationships, substance use disorders, and the experiences of post-traumatic stress. He counsels adults and adolescents and divides his time between Samaritan Counseling Center and partnering with Valiant Cross Academy as an in-house mental health counselor.

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River Region’s Journey

Adoption

Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery APAC, Alabama Pre/ Post Adoption Connection Support Group: This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Meets 3rd Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m. For more information call Jill Sexton at 409-9477.

Alcoholic / Addiction

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 Christcentered 12-step program. Call 264-4949. Location: Dalraida United Methodist Church 3817 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery An Alanon meeting is held at 9 am on Saturday mornings. Call 272.2190 for details. Location: Grace Presbyterian Church, 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: Heritage Baptist Church 1849 Perry Hill Rd, Montgomery, AL Route1520 is a Christ-centered recovery movement dedicated to showing the way home for men impacted by sex and pornography addiction. Meets: Mondays, 6:30 – 8:00 PM CST. No Childcare Provided. Email montgomery@route1520.com, visit http://www.route1520.com/ men/groups-for-men/ or call 877.200.1520. Location: Journey Church, 435 Sheila Blvd, Prattville Celebrate Recovery - Christ-centered 12-step for anyone struggling with addiction or life-challenging issues. Mondays beginning at 6:15 pm. Childcare available. Call John Pearse at 303-243-4308 or visit myjourneychurch.com. Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. RSVP- This is a 12 step spiritual recovery program for

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March 2021

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: Prattville Church of Christ, 344 E Main St. CASA - 12 step (Christians Against Substance Abuse) spiritual recovery program, for overcoming addictions. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 PM. Please call 334-365-4201 for additional information. Location: St. James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road Celebrate Recovery meets every Thursday night from 6-8 pm in the Youth Room. This is a Christ-centered 12-step group for anyone struggling with an “addiction or life-challenging issues.” For information, call Chris Henderson at 334-215-0427. 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. For any information contact ministry leader, Paul Henderson, 334-201-5428. Location: Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1728 S. Hull Street, Montgomery Route1520 is a Christ-centered recovery movement dedicated to showing the way home for men impacted by sex and pornography addiction. Meets Wednesday from 6:30-8 pm. For more information email riverregion@route1520.com, visit http:// www.route1520.com/ men/groups-for-men or call 877-2000-1520.

Alzheimer’s / Dementia

Location: First UMC, 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, 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: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy An Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers’ Support Group meets on the first Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m. in Room 3103. Call 495-6343. for more information.

Cancer

Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Rd 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 4674578 or Ben W at 202-1912.

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 UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. 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 Joe Crowley at 334-207-4385 or jpcrowl46@yahoo.com Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. 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 Room 8114. Call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net

Divorce

Location: First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street Divorce Care Wednesday nights @6:30-8:00 pm in Room 405B. Child care is available. Contact Kathy Cooper at 241-5125 for information. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Divorce Care meets each Tuesday from 6 – 7:30 p.m. Come to the Library area. This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. Call 495-6343 or email rnave@frazer.church.

Gambling

Location: Cedarwood Community Church, 10286 US HWY 231 in the Wallsboro/Wetumpka community. The church is 1 1/2 miles past Tutweiler prison. Gamblers Anonymous, Saturdays at 6 pm. and Mondays at 6:30 pm. Call 567-0476. Location: Mental Health of America, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Sundays @ 5 pm. For more information about the GA meetings call 334-399-6918. For information about counseling services or to request a guest speaker please call the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling at 334-277-5100.

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Grief

Location: Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road River Region Survivors of Suicide meets on the second and fourth Thursday of every month (excluding holidays) from 6:30-8:00 PM. This is an open group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide and welcomes anyone regardless of their religious beliefs. Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com with questions or for more information.

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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, Wednesday evenings at 6 pm in the church parlor. Led by Michael Beatty. Call 365-5977. Location: Frazer UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Grief Recovery Support Group meets Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., Rm 3105. Call495-6343 for more info. 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. 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 support group meets every Monday at 6:00 P.M- 7:00 P.M. For additional information, please contact Alice Glover at (334)281-2754.

Mental Health

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Mental Health - NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) meets 2nd Monday of each month from 6:30 – 8:30 pm in Room 7205. Group provides understanding, education & information to family members & friends of those who suffer mental illness, Call Pat Cobb at 334279-8331 for more info. NAMI Connection Support Group for individuals with mental illness meets every Thursday evening, 6:30 – 7:30 pm, room 3104. Call Pat Cobb at 334-279-8331 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 stages and ages of life. Childcare provided by reservation. Call April Scott at 828-446-6666. Location: First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) 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: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Single Moms Support Group, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in classroom 118. For information call 277-5800. 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.

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. Location: St.James UMC, 9045 Vauhgn Road Moms in Prayer International: This is a Christ centered interdenominational prayer ministry made up of moms, grandmothers, aunts or any woman who wants to gathers to pray for their children and schools. Meets every Sunday afternoon from 3:00-4:00. Call Annette Jones for more information on joining us or training to start your own group. 850-529-4730 or email Montgomerymipac@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. Call 272-6152. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Parkinson’s Support meets 4th Thursdays at 6 pm in Room 8114. Call 495-6343 for more info. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Ostomy Support meets every other month on the 2nd Sunday at 1:30 p.m. in room 3101. In 2018: Feb., April, June, Aug., Oct., Dec. Call 495-6343 for more info. Location: Vaughn Park Church, 3800 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach Group meets 2nd Friday of each month from 6:30- 8 PM. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare is provided. Please visit www. montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com or our Facebook page (MADSOG) for information.

Send support group info to deanne@readjourneymagazine.com

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March 2021

River Region’s Journey

Retirement Funding Comes Before College Savings Q. A friend told me about your Baby Steps program. I have one question, though. I noticed that according to your plan, saving for retirement should come before saving up a college fund for your kids. Why is this? A. In short, college funding is not a necessity. Being able to set aside money for college is a great thing to do if parents can afford that sort of thing. But you can fund your education in other ways. There are loads of scholarships out there just for getting good grades. You can also work while you’re taking classes. And one of the biggest things when it comes to getting an education is choosing a school or training program you can afford. Trust

me, I believe in education. But there are lots of ways to get a college degree, or other career training, without your parents having to foot the bill or taking out student loans. Another reason I advise this approach is because everyone is going to retire someday—unless, unfortunately, they happen to die before reaching retirement age. Retiring and eating are necessities. College is a luxury. Lots of people succeed in life without going to college, and thousands have worked their way through college. I worked 40-plus hours a week in college,

and still graduated in four years. The only good way to retire is by planning for it years ahead of time, and that means saving and investing. Sure, you should try to help your kids with their educations if you can. Even a little bit each month over the course of several years can help a lot. But some parents might not be able to put a dime toward their kids’ educations after high school. That doesn’t make them bad people or bad parents. And it doesn’t mean their kids can’t still go to college, and avoid debt doing it!

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For our 20th anniversary, the Walk of Life has been re-imagined to celebrate the amazing passion and talents of you...our incredible participants! We know times remain uncertain and many of you are still – and will be for the foreseeable future – hesitant to gather in larger groups. But the pandemic will not stop us from celebrating survivors and remembering those who’ve lost their battle with breast cancer!

This year, participate in the Walk of Life YOUR WAY! Join us by doing something you love: ♥ ♥

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Walk or run a 5k Walk “The Loop” in Downtown Montgomery April 24 or 25 Hold a virtual dance contest Ride your bike Create a neighborhood scavenger hunt Draw sidewalk chalk art Make masks Ride your motorcycle Teach yoga to friends Whatever you love to do!

YOU decide how you’ll participate this year!

Visit WalkofLife2021.org today! Be safe, have fun and feel amazing by helping more women access breast cancer screenings! The Walk of Life raises awareness and funds to fight breast cancer in Alabama.

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

COME CELEBRATE THE SAVIOR! SUNDAY, APRIL 4

SUNDAY, MARCH 28 8:30 AM PALM SUNDAY WORSHIP

8:30 AM EASTER WORSHIP CELEBRATION

9:45 AM BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CLASSES

11:00 AM PALM SUNDAY WORSHIP

11:00 AM EASTER WORSHIP CELEBRATION

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER VISIT MONTGOMERYFBC.ORG/EASTER

6:15 PM EASTER COMMUNION FRIDAY, APRIL 2 12:00 PM GOOD FRIDAY WORSHIP

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH MONTGOMERY

MARK BETHEA, PASTOR / 305 S PERRY STREET / MONTGOMERY, AL 36104 334.834.6310 :: MONTGOMERYFBC.ORG 1