Pastor’s Perspective
by Pastor Kyle Searcy, Fresh Anointing House of Worship
Living Daily in Resurrection Power
Therefore, we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Romans 6:3-4
The resurrection is the single most powerful event in the world. In that one moment, Jesus broke the power of the King of Terrors (Death) and established a path for all who live and die in Christ to be resurrected in the future.
Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. I John 3:2
I can’t wait to receive my resurrected body. Paul the Apostle describes it as a body sown in corruption but raised incorruptibly. The body goes into the ground in dishonor but will be raised in glory. It will be planted in weakness, but it will sprout in power. The natural body that goes into the ground emerges as a spiritual body (1 Cor. 15:42–44). This is glorious. I celebrate the time when we will have a body that will never get sick. It will be incapable of death. It will never grow old, and the best part is I don’t think it will gain weight. Yeehaw! Think about it, no lost or missing teeth, perfect gut microbiome (If that will still be a thing in our resurrected bodies). OK, we can go on and on imagining what it will be like, but let’s zero in on something we can embrace now.
Like many kingdom principles, there is a future fulfillment and a current implementation. Scripture teaches that there is a degree of resurrected power we can walk in here and now. Paul the Apostle declared that because of what Jesus did on the cross, we should also walk in “newness of life.”
The word “newness” is a noun that is in the dative tense. Dative refers to a benefit or recipient of an action. Because
of what Christ did, we have a benefit. We are the recipients of a new level of grace we can walk in.
I recently encountered evidence of the perils of aging. After trying some new cardio exercises for three days straight, I woke up the fourth morning in agonizing pain on my right foot. I had no idea the stair master, the elliptical, and the peloton were such a dangerous combination. I could not walk. The pain in the bottom of my foot was insane. After visiting a few doctors, I found out I had plantar fasciitis and posterior tibial tendentious. Ouch! I learned that as we age, sometimes the arches in our feet lose their form, causing problems. I began searching for a solution. Someone told me about a miracle insert for your shoes called “10 seconds”, to comfort arch stability. I ordered a pair on Amazon, put them in my shoes, and “wallah”, problem solved. I am literally walking in newness concerning pain in my foot. It’s gone!
So here’s what happened: I had a problem, and something existed to settle my problem, but I had to do something about it. I had to recognize it, acquire it, apply it, then walk in it. The same is true with resurrection power. We have a problem. It’s called sin and flesh. We were born with it and can’t overcome it on our own; however, there is something we can apply. It’s called the resurrection power of Jesus. It is available to us on a regular basis. Jesus said it this way, “Christ in you is the hope of glory.” The power of Christ in us is available whenever we need it. It is a supernatural grace we can apply.
Here’s a sample of what’s possible: A few years ago, I had to fly across the country. It was a long, intense journey. I finally got to my hotel room at about 10 pm. I had been so occupied that I did not pray all day. Now I was exhausted, wanting only
to sleep, but I really felt that I needed to pray. I went outside and started walking, attempting to pray. It wasn’t working. I was so lethargic it was hard to walk around. Additionally, I could not concentrate. My mind was wandering everywhere except where I wanted it. I thought, “This is not going to work.” I wanted to pray for at least one hour but didn’t think I would make even 15 minutes. Then I remembered the scripture that says that we have access to resurrection power that can cause us to walk in the newness of life. I began to access it, pray for it, and lean into it. I began to apply it. I set my mind on the fact that there was a power available greater than my personal power. I asked for it and began to set my mind on the strength in me by the power of the Holy Spirit. As I did, something remarkable happened. Tremendous strength rose in me. I started praying with great grace and power. It’s like I was a new man. I didn’t pray for one hour, I prayed for about two hours and could have continued. I stopped, not because I had to but because I chose to.
In a moment, I was transformed from a tired, weak individual to one laced with grace. It was resurrection power that was applied. Beloved, this power is available to us moment by moment and day by day. It can help us flee during times of temptation. It’s available to soothe us during times of rising rage in our hearts. It can aid us in loving those around us who are difficult. It can help us serve God when we are weary.
This resurrection season, as we celebrate the empty tomb, let’s access this resurrection power that is available to us whenever needed.
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Kyle Searcy serves as senior pastor of Fresh Anointing House of Worship in Montgomery. As well as being a skilled writer and well sought-after speaker, he is husband to the beautiful and anointed, Kemi Searcy. They are the blessed parents of four children and six grandchildren.
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Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation
by Collin Hansen
I wasn’t expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did. I enjoy reading a good biography as much as anyone, but was perhaps a bit skeptical about a book that, instead of focusing on an individual’s life and accomplishments, instead describes his spiritual and intellectual formation. Yet what could have been a mite dry was actually very compelling.
Unlike a traditional biography, this book tells Keller’s story from the perspective of his influences, more than his influence. Spend any time around Keller and you’ll learn that he doesn’t enjoy talking about himself. But he does enjoy talking—about what he’s reading, what he’s learning, what he’s seeing.
The story of Tim Keller is the story of his spiritual and intellectual influences—from the woman who taught him how to read the Bible, to the professor who taught him to preach Jesus from every text, to the sociologist who taught him to see beneath society’s surface.
Throughout the book, Hansen shows Keller as a man whose foremost gifting is not as an original thinker but as an analyzer and synthesizer who reads deeply and widely, pulling together insights from a host of others. “Having one hero would be derivative; having one hundred heroes means you’ve drunk deeply by scouring the world for the purest wells. This God-given ability to integrate disparate sources and then share insights with others has been observed by just about anyone who has known Keller, going back to his college days. He’s the guide to the gurus. You get their best conclusions, with Keller’s unique twist.” And hence the great conclusion at the end of it all is that if you appreciate Tim Keller the best thing you can do is focus less on him and more on the people who taught and influenced him.
Whether you have been influenced by Keller or not, whether you admire him or not, I believe you will enjoy this account of his life framed around his intellectual and spiritual development. Told through the pen of an especially talented a writer, it is a fascinating and compelling narrative. It may just get you thinking about who has formed you and compel you to praise God for the people, the preachers, the books, and the organizations that have made you who you are.
Water For My Camels: Navigating the Space Between Singleness and Marriage
by Paul Grimmond
There’s little doubt that the modern world creates some unique challenges when it comes to navigating the space between singleness and marriage. There are a host of factors that exist across Western culture and a separate bundle of issues that exist within Christian culture. Put together they can create significant difficulties in successfully pairing up and transitioning from singleness to marriage.
This challenge is the topic of Paul Grimmond’s new book Water For My Camels. Though the title is clever (at least if you can catch the biblical reference) the subtitle is far more descriptive: Navigating the space between singleness and marriage when the Bible doesn’t talk about dating. And, indeed, while the Bible clearly commends marriage and expects it for the majority of people, it offers little guidance on getting there. While it describes a number of ways in which people moved from singleness to marriage in the past, these are only ever descriptive and never prescriptive. So what are we to do? We are to apply biblical wisdom. “What does it mean to apply biblical wisdom to the process of this thing our culture calls ‘dating’? That’s the big question that this book will seek to answer.”
Grimmond does this by taking three key steps. First, he turns to the Bible to establish a series of principles that are meant to guide and shape our understanding of dating. Second, he contrasts the Bible’s ancient and timeless approach with the current cultural moment and with contemporary attitudes to dating. Third, he seeks to apply the Bible’s commands to the reality of dating today.
In quite a lengthy FAQ chapter he answers more than 50 questions of the kind young people are actually asking as they consider forming romantic relationships and moving toward marriage: How do I know if it’s God’s will for me to get married? If I’m same-sex attracted, is it okay to date someone of the opposite sex and get married? Do I need to disclose my past sexual history to someone I’m dating?
Water For My Camels is a brief book, but a very helpful one. Those who are currently navigating the tricky space between singleness and marriage would do well to consider reading his book. I’m quite certain they’ll be glad they’ve done so.
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RRC: How does your prayer life sustain you through your profession when challenges arise?
MM: My prayer life brings me immeasurable peace when challenges arise professionally and personally. When I feel overwhelmed, stressed, or defeated, I immediately pray to God. His peace overtakes negative feelings I may experience and replaces them with understanding, confidence, and gratefulness. Even if I don’t receive an answer to my prayer immediately, I have found confidence in knowing that He is a prayer-answering God, He’ll never put more on me than I can bear, and He created me for such a time as this.
RRC: How do you participate in the spiritual life of your community?
MM: I believe my purpose in life is to be a light. I make sure that I am intentional about being light and showing the love of God in my personal and professional life, and in my community. I am a member of Unity Worship Center and utilize
my God-given skills and education in marketing, public relations, and communication to help to spread awareness about the church and encourage new members. Outside of that, I love volunteering, participating in community service events, and helping people when I can. I’m blessed beyond measure, and I firmly believe God blesses me so that I can bless others.
RRC: You obligate a lot of your time towards community service projects. Could you tell us about that?
MM: I serve as the President-Elect for the Montgomery Chapter of the Public Relations Council of Alabama, where we connect public relations, marketing, and communications professionals at all phases of their careers – from students to retired professionals. I also serve as the Chairperson for the Family Sunshine Center’s Change Champions Board to promote and advocate the mission to foster hope and healing for survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual assault. I also serve on the Junior Executive Board for the Child Protect Children’s Advocacy Center to promote awareness and support for the center’s mission to advocate for victims of child abuse.
RRC: Both of your parents are senior pastors at Unity Worship Center. How did they guide you at an early age toward Christ?
MM: As a child, I remember being in children’s church, reading Bible books, and learning songs about the love of God. My parents taught me how to pray, worship, and show the love of Christ to others. As an adult, although I have my relationship with Christ, I still value and appreciate my parents keeping me covered in prayer.
RRC: Describe one way God has used you to positively influence another person spiritually.
MM: A few years ago, I hosted a young adult small group. I created a safe space for everyone to openly discuss their struggles, stresses and difficulties, successes, and testimonies. We laughed, prayed, and helped each other get through life together. I believe God used me to help those individuals grow in their faith while also stretching me to grow in my faith.
RRC: If someone is struggling with their faith walk or how to build a relationship with Christ, what words of encouragement can you share?
MM: Connect with others so you’re not taking this faith walk alone. I also encourage you to
learn God’s word. When you know and believe what the Lord says, “you can feel confident knowing that He never leaves you nor forsakes you.” He will never give you more than you can handle; He has a plan for your life, and He will give you exceedingly and abundantly more than you can ask or think if you trust Him and believe.
RRC: Although baptized at an early age, you began to desire a relationship with God during your college years. How did that happen?
MM: I went through a dark time in life during my college years. Being away from home, this was the first time in my life that I truly felt alone. I’d usually ask my parents to pray for me when I was going through something, and I’d leverage their relationship with Christ because I knew God answered their prayers. While away at school, I was no longer physically in their presence. I knew that if I wanted to get to a better space mentally, physically, and emotionally, I had to learn how to pray and build a relationship with Christ for myself.
RRC: In 2017, you started a blog, Walk by Faith. What was the inspiration behind it?
MM: As I worked on building my relationship with Christ in college, I thought it might help others going through the same thing if I documented my journey. If I could be transparent and talk about everything that comes with deepening your faith, I could show others they are not alone, and they can reap the benefits of having their relationship with Christ, too.
RRC: Describe when you had to trust God and walk by faith or sought His guidance for a decision.
MM: In 2016, my father got sick from kidney disease. Things were not looking good, and there seemed to be no light at the end of the tunnel. All I could do in the situation was pray that God healed my dad, which was my test to see if prayer worked. My dad is now happy/ healthy and recently celebrated the 6th anniversary of his kidney transplant.
Mikala McCurry is part of the Maxwell AFB AFCLC Outreach Team, Air Force Culture and Language Center. She’s from Montgomery and graduated from Brewbaker Tech Magnet School. After high school, she continued to further her education at Troy University.
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Community Picnic and Concert with Dennis Rader
Woodland Methodist Church, 4428 Wallahatchie Road, in Pike Road will be having its Community Picnic and Concert featuring Dennis Rader on Sunday, April 30, at 4:30 p.m. This is a free event. Call 272.7230 for more information.
Tim Hawkins Live In Concert
Vaughn Forest Church in Montgomery will be having comedian Tim Hawkins Live in concert on Thursday, April 20, at 7:00 p.m. Tickets may be purchased online. Visit www.vaugh nforest.com for more information.
Awaken Women’s Conference Registration Deadline
Crossroads Community Church in Elmore will be having its Awaken Women’s Conference on Saturday, June 3, from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. The guest speaker will be Catherine Parks and the worship leader will be Karen Gosselin. Registration may be made online. The deadline for registration will be on Monday, May 15. Conference will be held at 150 Mt Hebron Rd Elmore AL 36025. Visit https://crossroads.family/events/
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The resurrection of Jesus... CHANGES
EVERYTHING.
If death had the last word at Golgotha, then we’re left to scratch our heads about what Jesus’s sacrifice really accomplishes. So what if his death does this or that, if he is gone for good then we have no reliable grounds to think any of it’s true. If Jesus is still in the grave, then all the significance drawn from his death is pathetic well-wishing.
But, on the other hand, if Jesus is alive, then his inextinguishable life confirms that his death really did something. The resurrection means that Jesus’s death served a purpose he now will see to its maximal success. And therefore, the resurrection is the foundation to how the death of Jesus can impact our lives.
The implications of the resurrection are massive. In fact, you could say that the entire New Testament is an implication of the resurrection that’s packed with more implications of the resurrection. But what about the resurrection’s impact on the biblical story? How does Jesus being raised from the dead affect the message of the gospel?
The resurrection of Jesus makes clear that the gospel story is more than just a story.
Not for Mere Readers
The Christian gospel is a story to be read, but it’s not a story for mere readers. Intrinsic to the nature of this story is its demands that readers not dispassionately observe its content, but affectionately respond in the right ways. One theologian explains that the Bible functions as a kind of script that “calls not only for responsive reading but for responsive action and embodiment” (Drama of Doctrine, 115). Nothing makes this clearer than Jesus’s resurrection.
If this is just a good story — simply a tale like all the others — then we have the option to assess its elements with no consequences. If it’s just a story, then it doesn’t matter much what we think about it. We can enjoy it for entertainment, pat it on the head, and get on with our lives. But if it’s more than a story, if it’s actually a storied insight into the heart of unchangeable reality, then our
If it is more than just a story, we find ourselves to be more than neutral bystanders eavesdropping on someone else’s conversation. We’re actually kin to the characters described. No, wait, we’re fallen just like they are and in the same predicament. We’re the ones chasing glory and seeking pleasure, but we still haven’t found what we’re looking for. We read and realize that we’re not just being talked about; we’re being spoken to.
Not Your Ordinary Fellow
The fact that Jesus is raised stands forever at the height of this story, waiting for us to respond, giving us a chance to say something. And one way or another, we are always saying something, whether we’re compelled to embrace the gospel or disregard it. Even the refusal to comment is, of course, a kind of comment nonetheless.
The early leaders of the church grasped this implication. The sincere fears that made them cower behind closed doors on Friday and Saturday had disappeared when they realized Jesus was alive. We see this in how they talked. The biblical author Luke wrote a sequel book to his Gospel called the “The Acts of the Apostles.” Similar to the Gospels, it’s a historical narrative, but rather than cover the life of Jesus, it gives a glimpse into the life of the early Christians. Over and over in this narrative we see that the resurrection propelled and shaped their message. In fact, one criterion for being an early messenger of the gospel was that you were a witness of the resurrection (Acts 1:22).
In the first sermon recorded by Luke, the apostle Peter addresses a restless crowd with an unremitting focus on the resurrection. He puts the resurrection of Jesus in the context of the has
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sent his Spirit to empower the telling and hearing of this story (Acts 2:32–35). And then, to wrap up the whole sermon, Peter ends with the most obvious inference:
“Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.” (Acts 2:36)
As one paraphrase puts it, “There’s no longer room for doubt — God made him Master and Messiah” (The Message). The point is that Jesus is the Messiah promised from ancient times, and that he is also God. Death couldn’t hold him. He’s not your ordinary fellow.
Now What?
The response from the hearers makes complete sense. After Peter says these last words, Luke tells us that those around who heard him were “cut to the heart” (Acts 2:37). That is the literal expression in the original Greek. Conceptually, it means that things got real.
The deep rumblings of their souls, the complexities of their lives, all the things that swirl in the minds of people just trying to make it in this world — it all became exposed, the real laid raw, the fluff set aside. What really matters now mattered to them, and they asked, “What do we do?” They knew something had to happen. Something now had to be different.
The resurrection of Jesus shows up consistently in the teaching ministry of the apostles. Proclaiming Christ crucified always meant proclaiming him risen, even when it got them into trouble (which it did, Acts 3:2), even when their listeners couldn’t handle it (which some couldn’t, Acts 17:32). But in every case, the reality of the resurrection presses into those who hear about it, and in a particular way.
Proclaimed to You
We see this again in the apostle Paul’s sermon delivered in the city of Antioch, a first-century metropolis located at the border of modern-day Turkey and Syria. In that sermon, after retracing key points in the biblical storyline, Paul claims that resurrection of Jesus guarantees the fulfillment of God’s promises. Like Peter, he links the resurrection to past prophecies about God’s Messiah, and then, he extends it to what it means for us.
Let it be known to you therefore, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, and by him everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses. (Acts 13:38–39)
Once again, the message spoken extends to the lives of its hearers. The resurrection of Jesus means that we can be forgiven for our sins. It’s not just a story for entertainment or advice or religious musings disconnected from the real world. Jesus is raised. This is news. He is alive.
And that means forgiveness is proclaimed — and proclaimed to you. It means that every listener is invited not merely to listen, but to believe. Here is where the resurrection calls for our response. Here is where neutrality sheds its skin. We are called to embrace this news and participate in its wonder. Or reject it and perish.
Jesus gave his life as a sacrifice for your sins, and then he was raised from the dead. Jesus is alive. Forgiveness is proclaimed to you. This is freedom held out for you. Receive him, believe him, embrace him. That is what an early messenger of the gospel would be saying to you right now. That’s what is being said to you right now. The question is how you respond.
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Jonathan Parnell (@jonathanparnell) is the author of Never Settle for Normal: The Proven Path to Significance and Happiness.
Finding Hope, Full Surrender in the Dark
I won’t forget it, because it is what saved me. Sitting and being counseled years ago after losing my sister, I expressed – almost inaudibly – that I wanted this to go away. This, I said, and touched my chest. This, the pain. This, the hurt. This, the sadness.
This, the shattered heart.
I was told in that one session to have hope. I was told to hang on to that hope. And I sat, and silently challenged the person to be right, as though to prove it would work. I did this for what was only less than a minute, until I finally succumbed to what was being said. Succumbed to the only direction I was given at that time. I had nothing else to hang on to.
I simply said, “Ok.” And in that season of my life, I allowed the hope to flow through me. From Christ. From my belief that it would not only help, but heal. And heal in a way that would allow me to wake every morning with renewed hope. With purpose and understanding that life would move on in a way that would allow me to move past the pain.
...and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.
(Psalm 50:15)
In the months following this session, I slowly released the heaviest of grief. I started talking to God again. Really talking. Started to laugh again. Started living again. But after some time, depression overcame me to a point I had to seek therapy.
And beyond what my therapist could do other than provide me tools to literally get through every day in ways that found gratitude, I also clung on to hope that a new day would arise. What I found was that the tools, hope, and prayer merged together in a way that pulled me through.
For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.
(Psalm 62:5-6)
Some days were dark. Coming through on the other side after weeks and weeks didn’t happen only because of finding gratitude through journal assignments from my therapist. Or only because of prayer. I needed all of it together. I desired all of it. I lived with a desperate hope that I would be okay.
Pray, journal, pray, journal. I clung to Jesus through all of it.
For me, gratitude grew beyond what I was grateful for in my everyday life – the everyday-ness of finishing laundry, beating the tardy bell at my daughter’s school, a great morning run. It grew to being grateful I woke up.
That the hope I lived for and through granted me another day. That I could find healing even in my wounds. Purpose in my pain. Vi sion where it was once lost. The ability to guide others through their darkness.
He never promised we would never have problems, but He did promise He’d walk with us through them.
...And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
(Matthew 28:20)
When we feel hopeless in our lives, we need to fully trust and surrender. Lift your hands, give it all to Him. All the worries, the depression, the hurt, the anxiety. And trust Him. It’s not easy to give up control or direction.
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What the world observed after the night of January 2nd certainly became a moving experience, with a stirring devotion to prayer. Expressions of prayer were commonplace for several weeks after Buffalo defensive back Damar Hamlin went into cardiac arrest and collapsed.
WORLD Magazine, on its website, stated: “Almost immediately after the incident, ESPN showed Bills head coach Sean McDermott gathering his players and coaches together to pray for Hamlin. Newscasters, fans, and players from across the NFL followed suit on social media.
Former NFL quarterback, now ESPN commentator, Dan Orlovsky spontaneously led a prayer on the air. A CBN.com article quoted the sportscaster, who said:
...We just want to pray, truly come to You and pray for strength for Damar, for healing for Damar, for comfort for Damar, to be with his family, to give them peace. If we didn’t believe that prayer worked, we wouldn’t ask this of You, God. I believe in prayer, we believe in prayer, and we lift up Damar Hamlin’s name in Your name, Amen.”
Sports Spectrum reported:
Reflecting on everything his team’s been through in the past week, head coach Sean McDermott praised God for the ways He’s been at work in such difficult circumstances.
“I’m a man of faith, and it’s just fun to watch and be around a good group of people that work so hard towards a common goal,” McDermott said in his postgame press conference. “And they care so much in this case about Damar and all their teammates. Like I said, God is so good, and I believe — obviously an unfortunate situation — but God has shown Himself through this situation in so many ways.”
CBN quoted from a columnist named Joshua Arnold, who wrote this for The
Washington Stand: “...When unexpected, unexplained tragedy strikes, ordinary citizens and influential people across America’s institutions alike turn to prayer.” He added: “...What is appropriate in a crisis is prayer, as thousands of Americans have recognized this week.”
Damar Hamlin was out of the hospital fairly quickly and showed up at a Bills playoff game not long thereafter, as well as the Super Bowl. I believe God used his situation to do what He does so well - showing His love and bringing glory to His name.
A Decision Magazine article reported on a survey conducted in mid-January, some three weeks after Hamlin’s collapse. It was conducted by Summit.org and McLaughlin & Associates. It revealed that out of 1000 people indicating they were likely voters in a general election: “67.3%...believe that public calls for prayer after a national tragedy are effective in light of the public outpouring of prayer for NFL player Damar Hamlin; 19.7 percent believe such prayers are pointless, and 13.1% say they don’t know.”
Broken down by age, you can find these percentages of those who “believe that public calls for prayer are effective.”
54.7% of 18 to 29-year-olds
62.3% of those aged 30-40
67.8% of voters aged 41-55
69.9% of voters aged 56-65
77.3% of voters over age 65.
Jeff Myers, President of Summit.org, stated:
“Unfortunately, young Americans seem more cynical about prayer, with a higher percent age than other age groups saying such calls to prayer are pointless,” he added. “But with many young athletes now publicly expressing their faith, perhaps the hearts of the rising generation will be more open to the very real power of faith and prayer.”
Franklin Graham is also quoted; he said: “There’s nothing more powerful for believers to do in a time of need than to call out to God,” add ing, “God promises to hear and answer” the prayers of “His people according to His gracious will.” One can sur mise that there is a renewed emphasis in prayer - it has certainly been a focus in times of crisis. But, we can continue to remember that public prayer may not be an indicator of a private walk with Jesus Christ, the One through whom we can really come into the presence of God. So, He is certainly issuing an invitation - the question is: will people respond? And will that response be a long-term expression rather than a short-term demonstration?
Fact is, God is inviting us every single day to come into His presence, to walk with Him, to serve Him with our whole hearts. Those of us who have been born again have experienced the power of a changed life through salvation. But, we have to de cide each day if we are going to walk in that and surrender to God rather than attempt to live life on our own. Prayer is a wonder ful conduit through which we communicate and commune with our God - He is calling, He’s inviting, it’s in store for us. The ques tion for each of us: will we respond?
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“Call to Prayer”
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by Kym Klass
There is no greater visual to LaDonna Brendle than seeing someone smile. Seeing someone have hope who hasn’t had it. Someone who believes in Jesus who hadn’t previously believed.
“I just love that,” she said. “It’s like seeing the Lord transform people right before your very eyes, and it’s beautiful.”
This is her life’s work.
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Almost 15 years ago, Brendle (pictured on right in photo) founded Reality & Truth Ministries. Its mission is to serve and glorify God according to the work of Christ by promoting the one source of truth amidst everyday realities – through encouraging, teaching, loving and gifting others.
“First and foremost, people need to see what Jesus looks like,” she said. “And when you speak the truth, and at the same time you’re showing the truth – actually living it out amongst the people, it’s lifechanging.
“There are people with real needs. They need to know that it is the Lord who cares about their needs. And that the Lord will meet them there, and He cares. In the scrip tures Jesus says, ‘I looked upon them with compassion because they were a sheep without a shepherd.’”
As believers in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, “we have been gifted to live life eternally in Heaven with Him and Feet Mission, Israel Love Mission, Let’s
Talk Truth on WFRZ TV, and The Well Residential (housing and discipleship for women in transition from prison).
Located at 506 Montgomery Street, the 9,000-square-foot One Church Mission will provide the amenities of home to the homeless and poor in downtown Montgomery, including Bible studies, showers, laundry, clothing, home furnishings, groceries, daily dinners, and weekday lunches.
“About 50 percent of our outreach is One Church Mission,” Brendle said. “About 50 percent of those (at the mission) grew up without a shepherd, parents, leadership, guidance, and direction into the pathway of life did not exist. The streets were their leadership. So, when you have a ministry that is not humanitarian, that is very much relational, it becomes like a family to the people.
“There’s this misunderstanding of people without. People weren’t willing to get near them. Like the untouchables in the scriptures – where a lot of people don’t want to get close or deep with people who are not like them. And that’s unfortunate because Jesus came for all people, especially the ones that nobody wanted to look at, be near, or be a friend with.”
Schedule your retirement review today.
It’s been said that we spend more time planning vacations than planning for retirement. Let’s set aside some time to create positive change for you and the people you care about and understand:
• How much you’ll need to retire
• If you are on track for your retirement goals
• Which IRA is right for your retirement needs – Roth or traditional
• The importance of asset allocation and how it can help as you work toward your long-term goals
It’s more than just money. Investing is about realizing the possibilities of your future.
Sang Y Chung, AAMS®, CRPC® Financial Advisor
1951 Berry Chase Place Montgomery, AL 36117 334-271-9573
19 April 2023 River Region Christians
IRT-2735F-A EXP 31 JUL 2023 © 2021 EDWARD D. JONES & CO., L.P. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. edwardjones.com Member SIPC
Reality & Truth: The beginning
Soon after it was founded in 2008, the ministry began evangelizing and giving away Bibles at an apartment complex – while remaining active in prison ministry. The Lord then focused the mission field to downtown Montgomery and also to Tel Aviv, Israel, as they began short-term missions once or twice a year to the homeless and poor in Tel Aviv, serving the homeless and poor communities through local organizations and street outreach.
Back in Montgomery, the ministry offered “Sunday Street School,” teaching God’s Word and providing weekly lunches to a downtown street community, and also teaching a Bible study and providing a weekly meal at a downtown church.
The ministry has gone from feeding the homeless at Overlook Park, to a church building, to someone’s backyard, and after, a soup kitchen. Whatever it took, whatever obstacles faced, Brendle never stopped.
“The Lord does things purposefully,” she said. “People see that someone will be there with them every single day. That we’re ready to suffer with them. Also, we did a full circle around downtown. He expanded our reach.”
“The greatest and most exciting thing that our mission center provides is
are doing what God has commanded in Deuteronomy 6 by teaching as we walk, talk, sit, and eat together daily,” Brendle explains.
Providing outreach
Reality & Truth has several outreach programs – and shares that the women’s transitional home – The Well Residential – offers the women something when they have nothing. When they have no money, no home, no job opportunities.
“What do you do?” Brendle asks. “A lot of them end up homeless. Our home provides free housing. We provide four different Bible studies throughout the year based on life, so we believe they will come out and be self-sufficient.
“We also teach them how to have healthy relationships. Finally, we develop prayer life. We believe that if your prayer life is developed and healthy, that you will hear from the Lord and will walk in the purpose He has made for you. And that you will be very successful. We all need a fresh start. And it’s not free –they volunteer, get jobs.”
The ministry’s teaching program, Brendle said, is important to the community because “we all need to hear the word of God. And not everybody is going to be reading the word of God. And not everybody is listening to teaching that is more like application – a lot of it
is very historical, which is all
“And people need to be encouraged to be with other Christians and be in the Word together. And we believe that no matter who you are, the word of God is powerful, and it is effective. And we all need more effectiveness in our life.
One Church Mission
The building was acquired about 10 years ago. Brendle stresses everything she does is in obedience, explaining the Lord has not provided for the building to be open any sooner than this summer or fall.
“You can do campaigns and fundraisers to get buildings up and running, and that’s not the approach we took,” she said. “We’re run by all volun -
“The Lord’s timing is as such. When Covid began, we lost every bit of our leadership in our mission. When you’re serving the Lord, you don’t stop doing ministry. He immediately showed me, ‘See? Aren’t you glad the building is not ready?’ It would have been a very big challenge to run the business and organization and all the operational part of the organization with just me on board. I have a board that is wonderful, and who stepped in and up at that time.”
Brendle said when the Lord called her and her team to reach the homeless, there were only overnight shelters. She slowly started filling the needs piece by piece.
“It takes time to invest in people,” she said. “We are selfish with our time. I was, before I met Jesus. People need people.”
How to help or donate:
Online: https://realityandtruth.com Call: 334-354-6142
Address: 108 Camden Street, or PO BOX 6322, Montgomery, AL 36106-0322
Email: realityandtruth@live.com
20 River Region Christians April 2023
Kym Klass is a contributing writer and Communications Director of the Media Ministry at Frazer Church in Montgomery.
RIVER REGION
Stations of the Cross available all day on April 7
Good Friday Services, April 7 at Noon-1p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Easter Vigil with Baptisms and Receptions
Saturday, April 8 at 8 p.m.
Son Rise Service
Sunday, April 9, at 6 a.m.
Easter Sunday Services at 9:30 with Easter Egg Hunt following service.
Church of the Brook
2890 Highway 14, Millbrook, 285.5783 Easter Services, April 9, at 10:30 a.m.
Church of the Holy Comforter
2911 Woodley Road, 281.1337
Maundy Thursday, Holy Eucharist, April 6 at 6 p.m. Good Friday, April 7 at noon
Holy Saturday Eucharist, April 8 at 9:30 a.m.
Easter Eucharist, April 9 at 10 a.m.
Dalraida UMC
ad on page 15
3817 Atlanta Highway, 272.2190
Easter Celebration Butterfly Release, April 9 at 11 a.m. service Visit www.dalraidaumc.com
Eastmont Baptist Church
4505 Atlanta Highway, 277.6300
First Presbyterian Church
211 S. Chestnut St, Prattville, 365.6387
Sonrise Service, April 9 at 6:30 a.m.
Easter Service, April 9, 10:30 am Visit firstpresbyterianchurchofprattville.com
First UMC, Montgomery
2416 West Cloverdale Park, 834.8990
Palm Sunday Service & Festivities, April 2, 8:45 and 11 a.m. with festivities on front lawn at 10 a.m.
Maundy Thursday, April 6, TBD
Good Friday Tenebrae, April 7, 7 p.m.
Easter, April 9, 7 a.m. Sunrise Service
8:30, 9:45 and 11 a.m. Worship Services
First UMC, Wetumpka
306 W. Tuskeena Street, 567.7865
Easter Egg Hunt
April 2 at 11 a.m.
Tenebrae Service
April 6 at 6 p.m. Wetumpka Cross Walk
April 7 at 11 a.m.
Easter Morning
April 9 at 6:15, 8 and 10 a.m.
www.wetumpkafirst.com/easter
Frazer Church
ad on page 3
Aldersgate United Methodist Church
6610 Vaughn Road, 272.6152
Good Friday Tenebrae Service, Friday, April 7 @ 7:00pm
Easter Celebration Services, Sunday, April 9, 8:15 am, Traditional Worship
10:30am, Contemporary Worship
Beacon of Hope Church of God
1045 Coliseum Boulevard, 274.0932
Easter Egg Hunt, Dates TBA
Easter Celebration, Sunday, April 9 at 10:45 a.m. Nursery Available
Blue Ridge Baptist Church
4471 Jasmine Hill Rd, 567.4325
Palm Sunday, April 2 at 11 a.m. with Children’s Easter Story Musical and lunch at noon followed by Easter Egg Hunt. Easter Services, April 9, Courtyard service at 9 a.m. with breakfast following Regular service time 11 a.m. with music and Easter message.
Christchurch
8800 Vaughn Road, 387.0566
Palm Sunday, April 2 at 9:30 a.m.
Maundy Thursday, April 6 at 6:30 p.m. and Gethsemane Watch, 8 p.m. to Midnight
Easter Morning Worship, April 9, 8:30 and 11 a.m.
Evangel Church
3975 Vaughn Road, 272.4882
972 McQueen Smith Rd S, Prattville
Easter Egg Hunt, Sunday, April 2 after Children’s Worship service at 10:30 a.m.
Easter, April 9, Worship at 10:30 a.m. (Prattville), April 9, Worship at 10 a.m.
First Baptist, Montgomery ad on Back Cover
305 S. Perry Street, 834.6310
Palm Sunday Service, April 2 at 8:30 and 11 a.m.
Palm Sunday Night of Worship with Easter Communion and Lord’s Supper April 2 at 6:15 p.m.
Wednesday Easter Passion Service, April 5 at 6:15
Good Friday Service, April 7 at noon
Easter Sunday, April 9, 8:30 & and 11 a.m.
First Baptist Church, Prattville
138 S. Washington Street, 365.0606
Easter Services, April 9, 8:15 (Contemporary) 9:30 a.m. (Traditional) and 11 am (Contemporary) Visit us at fbcprattville.org.
6000 Atlanta Highway, 272.8622
Palm Sunday
April 2 at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. with Easter Egg Hunt after. Stations of the Cross, April 5 from noon until 9 p.m., April 6 from 8:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. and April 7 from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and 7-9 p.m., April 9 from 7-8:30 a.m. and 9:30-11 a.m. Please join us in Wesley Hall for a series of stations depicting Jesus Christ on the day of his crucifixion and accompanying prayers.
Good Friday Service of Darkness
April 7 from 6-7 p.m., Sanctuary Easter Worship services
April 9 at 8:30 am and 11am Visit frazer.church for more information.
Gateway Baptist Church
3300 Bell Road, 272.9494
Sunrise Service in conjunction with Grace Presbyterian, Legacy Anglican and Young Meadows Presbyterian will be April 9 at 6:30 a.m. outside of Grace Presbyterian. Easter Services, April 9, 10:30 a.m.
Grace Presbyterian Church
5 Bell Road at Atlanta Hwy, 272.4930
Palm Sunday Worship, April 2 at 10:30 Maundy Thursday Communion,
22 River Region Christians April 2023
April 6 at 6 p.m.
Easter Sunrise Service and breakfast, April 9, 6:30 a.m.
Free breakfast following Sunrise service. Worship Service, 10:30 a.m.
GracePointe
1565 Ray Thorington Road, 271.2525
Palm Sunday, April 2, 10a.m.
Easter Worship Services
Sunday, April 9, 10 a.m.
Easter Egg Hunt following service.
Heritage Baptist Church
ad on page 10
1849 Perry Hill Rd, Montgomery, 279.9976
Maundy Thursday, April 6
Bring your family anytime between 4-6 pm to celebrate the Lord’s Supper.
Easter Service, April 9, 10:15 a.m. Please visit hbcm.net for more information.
Lakeview Baptist Church
9225 Atlanta Highway, 213.3080
Easter Worship Service
April 9 at 10:45 a.m.
Morningview Baptist Church
125 Calhoun Road, 272.2304
Good Friday Service, April 7 at 6 p.m.
Easter Sunday, April 9, 10:30 a.m.
The Ridge Church
Meets at Wetumpka Highschool, 1251 Coosa River Parkway
Easter Sunday Services, April 9, 9:45 a.m. For more information, call 424.3104.
Ridgecrest Baptist Church
5260 Vaughn Road, 277.0011
Palm Sunday Special Musical Service, April 2 at 10:45
Easter Sunday, April 9 at 10:45 a.m.
Saint James Church
9045 Vaughn Road, 277-3037
Palm Sunday, April 2 at 10 a.m. (Contemporary & Kids), 11 am (Traditional) with a musical “Reflections of Holy Week”
Maundy Thursday, April 6, Service at 6 p.m. in the Traditional Sanctuary.
Good Friday, April 7, Family Life Center at 6 p.m.
Easter Egg Hunt, April 8, 10 a.m. Inflatable, games and crafts.
Easter Sunday, April 9, Sunrise at the Pines Service, 7 a.m. Contemporary Service; 10 a.m. (Worship Center); Traditional Service; 11:00 a.m. (Sanctuary)
St. John’s Episcopal Church
April 2nd, Palm Sunday
Regular services, including the visit of Bp Glenda and confirmations.
April 3rd, Holy Monday
Eucharist Rite 1, 12:05 in the Chapel.
April 4th, Holy Tuesday
Eucharist Rite 1, 12:05 in the Chapel.
April 5th, Holy Wednesday
Eucharist Rite 1, 12:05 in the Chapel
April 6th, Maundy Thursday
Eucharist Rite 1, 6pm in the Church
April 7th, Good Friday
Worship, 12:05pm in the Church and Stations of the Cross, 5pm in the Church.
April 9th, Easter Day, Eucharist Rite 1, 7am in the Church
Eucharist, 9am in the Church, followed by Easter Egg Hunt.
Eucharist Rite 2, 11am in the Church. For more information please visit www. stjohnsmontgomery.org or call our office at 334-262-1937.
Taylor Road Baptist Church
1685 Taylor Rd., 271.3363
Easter Egg Hunt, April 1, 10 a.m. to noon
Easter Service, April 9 10:30 a.m.
Titus New Home Baptist Church
1605 New Home Road, Titus; 452.6111
Palm Sunday, April 2, with Choir performance and Children’s Skit. Times to be decided.
Thorington Road Baptist Church
450 Ray Thorington Road, 396.9376
Good Friday, April 7, at 6:30 pm
Easter Sunday, April 9 at 10:30 a.m.
Vaughn Forest Church
8660 Vaughn Rd., 279.5433
Easter Sunday, April 9, 9:30 and 11:00 services with great music, awesome teaching and few special surprises. Please call for more information or visit at www.vaughnforest.com.
Woodland United Methodist Church
4428 Wallahatchie Rd, Pike Road, 272.7230
Palm Sunday Cantata, April 2, 10 a.m. service. Easter Egg Hunt, April 2 following the cantata. Three different hunts, according to age. Food available for purchase, games, Inflatables and cotton candy.
Easter Sunday, April 9
Easter Sonrise Service at 6:30 a.m.
Traditional Service times 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Contemporary Service time 9:15 a.m. We look forward to having you come and celebrate the resurrection of our Savior.
RIVER REGION
23 April 2023 River Region Christians
Enjoying the Spring of Your Life
See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come; the cooing of doves is heard in our land.
(Song of Solomon 2:11-12)
Spring is an exciting time of year. Flowers are blooming, the grass is renewing its color, and new life is “springing” forth. It is amazing to see signs of life all around us with baby ducks, geese, and young deer. Chirping birds are calling out spring’s arrival. It reminds us that darkness is fading and the light of day is expanding.
What a fantastic example of God’s creation and the hope that new life emerges out of the darkness and death of winter. Years ago, many churches would plan their spring revivals to renew the souls of their community with hope. This is a time of renewal and refreshing.
It is a reminder in our own lives of the words of David while suffering a significant illness, “For his anger last only a moment, but favor last a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night; joy comes with the morning” (Ps. 30:5). Perhaps you have experienced the “dark days of winter” in this season of your life. English poet Anne Bradstreet writes, “If we had
no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant. If we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.” Are you looking for renewal and hope?
Research has demonstrated extended daylight lifts our mood, energy, and overall sense of well-being. Simple exposure to more light can increase dopamine which is related to pleasure and mood. It is time to get out of our winter cocoons, plant something, take a walk, or have a pic nic. For some, this is a time of “spring cleaning,” which is not only about clearing out the clutter that has accumulated in our homes but also an opportunity to clear out the “clutter” in our thoughts. This is often referred to as an “attitude adjustment.”
Viktor Frankl reflected on his years in a Nazi con centration camp, enabling us to understand our at titude’s importance. He says, “Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of human freedoms – to choose one’s own attitude in any given set of circumstances – to choose one’s own way.” This is the essence of what Paul instructs in telling us not to conform to this world but to transform our lives by changing our thoughts.
Learn to recognize when you are frequently focusing on negative thoughts, and begin to find the positives in your life. Strive to celebrate the victories in life
and not dwell on the challenges you may encounter. Check out the relationships around you and ask if they are healthy for you or tend to be negative and demeaning. This is never a simple process, but it is the foundation for discovering hope and joy in our lives.
Let’s return to the words of David in Psalms: “You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me
with joy, that I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever!” (Ps. 30:10-12, NLT). The greatest reason for hope during this spring season is the joy of Easter, where even death was overcome by the resurrection of Jesus.
24 River Region Christians April 2023
Rev. Dr. Lennie Howard has been a Licensed Professional Counselor for 32 years, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 21 years.
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
Courage lives
Most people cannot even imagine what it feels like to watch a child take on a battle against cancer. The courage, strength and resilience our patients demonstrate every day is what inspires us to give our best. We are here when families need us the most, caring for their children and never giving up hope in their fight against cancer.
25 April 2023 River Region Christians
Our Statement of Faith
Learn more at ChildrensAL.org/cancer
Brand-COURAGE_Montgomery-Parent_4.9x7.25-PROD.indd 1 11/21/22 11:28 AM
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: Christchurch Anglican Church, 8800 Vaughn Road next to Southern Homes and Gardens
Celebrate Recovery meets every Friday night. Dinner at 6:00, nursery available for children 4 and under. Large Meeting starts at 6:30. For more information, contact Dolly McLemore 334-301-3490.
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 overcoming addictions. 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 Church, 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 Church, 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 Church, 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: Centerpoint Fellowship
1200 McQueen Smith Road South, Prattville, AL Divorce Care Sundays @ 9:00 am in the Conference Room. Child care is available. Contact Angie Davis at 730-2566 for information.
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 334399-6918. For information about counseling services or to request a guest speaker please call the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling at 334-277-5100.
26 River Region Christians April 2023
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. Welcomes anyone regardless of their religious beliefs. Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com.
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.
Location: Church of the Highlands, 4255 Taylor Rd. Eryn’s Embrace offers hope and healing to children and teens grieving the loss of a loved one through peer support groups. Meets the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 4-5:15. More info: www.erynsembrace.org; erynsebrace@gmail.com; Erin Camp 334-657-1871.
Location: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth St, Prattville Grief Share, led by Dave Dageford. Call 365-5977 if you are interested.
Location: Frazer Church, 6000 Atlanta Hwy GriefShare, Wednesday mornings 10am -12pm in the East Sanctuary. Spring group meets through April 26. Fall group from Sept. 6 through Nov. 29. For information call the church 272-8622. Dian Sims (facilitator)
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.
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.
Parenting
Location: First Baptist Prattville, 138 South Washington Moms LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) meets twice monthly from 8:30 - 11:45 am in the chapel at the Church from AugMay. 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 828446-6666.
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 Church, 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: Young Meadows Church, 5780 Vaughn Rd
River Region MOPS (Moms of Preschoolers) meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 am (September-May). Interested moms can reach out to riverregionmops334@gmail.com or find us on Facebook. riverregionmops334@gmail.com.
Send
27 April 2023 River Region Christians
support group info to deanne@readjourneymagazine.com.
Work First, Play Later
Q I brought about $15,000 in student loan debt into our marriage. I’m 26, my wife is 27, and we’ve been married a little over a year. During that time, our parents have helped us out with financial gifts occasionally. Whenever this happens, my wife and I get into an argument. She likes to use the cash they give us to have fun, but I think we should use it to pay down debt and get our finances in order. What is your opinion?
A. If your parents didn’t specify what the money is for, then it’s up to you guys to decide together how it will be used. In my mind, the fun needs to be put on hold for a while.
You’ve already told me you have at least $15,000 in debt. If there’s more debt in the picture, I’d advise listing all your debts, and begin knocking them
out from smallest to largest using the debt snowball system. Debt is risk, and as long as it’s around it’s eating up your largest wealth-building tool—your income.
I’m sure your wife is a good, smart lady. But it’s time she started being a little more mature when it comes to financial matters. Let her know how important this is to you and why it’s so important to your future as a couple. You two should be working together and getting your financial house in order as a team.
I recommend treating the money from your parents just like a paycheck. That means including it in a written, monthly budget, and taking care bills, debt, and any other financial responsibilities you have first.
Trust me, there’ll be plenty of time for fun later. The amount of student loan debt you have isn’t astronomical, but it does need to be cleaned up as fast as possible.
Once that’s taken care of, you’ll be able to really concentrate on saving and investing—and yes, some fun along the way!
