River Region's Journey January 2020

I would rather have my head in a book than my head in a cloud.

- Shelby, 8th Grade

For more information visit AlabamaHealthyTeens.com

Volume 21, Issue 10

Feature Articles

JAN UARY 2 0 2 0 Columns page 2

Publisher’s Note

page 14

Faith @ Work: Oliver Wells

Jason Watson

Meet Oliver Wells...gym owner/fitness coach, fireman, husband and father. His plate is full and he takes each responsibility God has given him very seriously.

Learn how he lives out his faith at work and in the home.

Dr. Daniel Gillenwater, The Church at Eastern Oaks

page 4

Pastor's Perspective page 12

Pondering the Journey Sam Whatley

page 16

The Intersection Bob Crittenden

page 18

Medical Outreach Ministries

page 22

Women Arising Pastor Kemi Searcy

by Katie Blair

page 26

What began 26 years ago in the basement of a church has grown today to serve more than 1,200 patients throughout the River Region, providing free quality health care to the uninsured and medically under served in Montgomery, Autauga and Elmore counties. Learn how you can assist in their mission!

Counselor’s Corner Christy Holding, LPC

page 32

Dave $ays Dave Ramsey

In Every Issue page 24

Is Faith-Based School Right for Your Child?

page 6

Books to Read page 8

Around Our Community

by Kimberly Blaker

Pros and cons when considering faith-based schooling for your kids. Find questions to ask yourself and potential schools to help you make the best decision for your family.

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Faith @ Work page 28

Support Groups January 2020

River Region’s Journey

Our Mission...

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

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@readjourneymagazine.com

Publisher

Jason Watson jason@readjourneymagazine.com

Associate Publisher Gena Hill

Research Editor Wendy McCollum

Contributing Writers Katie Blair Kimberly Blaker Bob Crittenden Dr. Daniel Gillenwater Christy Holding, LPC Dave Ramsey Kemi Searcy Dr. David Steele Sam Whatley

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

Digital Manager Scott Davis

Ad Design

Tim Welch, Welch Designs

Distribution Manager

From the Publisher Pharisees and Sinners My mama came from the country. Hers was a family of coal miners from Tennessee and West Virginia who liked to add long “R” sounds to words with no R’s in them. My Great Pawpaw was a “Back Woods Preacher” so all his kids and their kids were raised to go to church and give a proper tithe of 10% or else. I had the opportunity to go to church a few times with that side of the family. There on Sundays I found two perfect illustrations of Heaven and Hell.

That outhouse was a place of eye-watering damnation, which after visiting you never wanted to return.

But, on the other hand, those mouth-watering potluck celebrations, outside after church, were the first inklings of the Heavenly feast to come.

My mother experienced a lot of hard times and brokenness in her life, but that old-time religion never left her. Even when she wanted to shake it loose, it wouldn’t let her go. Sometimes she liked it that way. Sadly, guilt and performance were the religious currency on which she was raised. Still, Jesus broke through and revealed His perfect sacrifice in her place. Thankfully, she shared Jesus with me more than any other person in my life.

My dad’s family talked about God, but according to my mother’s side, talking about God like that will get you sent straight to Hell. The only time we went to church with dad’s family was for a wedding. Like my mother’s side though, the best part was what came after...those wedding receptions were magical! Everyone celebrating the bride and groom with flowing champagne fountains, towering cakes, long hugs and loud laughter, followed by dancing and curtain calls to keep the party going way past what the bride’s family actually paid for. The love my dad’s family displayed, even though imperfect, was a world I never wanted to leave. They taught me a lot about God’s unconditional love and eventually God revealed His love to my dad. He became a child of God in his 40s and now loves sharing God’s love and grace with others. My parents came from two very different worlds. Pharisees and Sinners. Two worlds with wounds that God redeems perfectly by faith in Jesus and restores in His own timing.

Standing on the edge of another decade as the clock continues its never-ceasing tick-tock into the future, what will your story be? Do you wonder if God can redeem your life or if you’re even worthy of His love and grace? Is your baggage too heavy or your wounds too deep for God? Let me tell you, you don’t belong in the outhouse!

God wants you at His banquet table celebrating a new life through what Jesus did on the cross. Yes, You! The Bible says Heaven will rejoice when you come to the Father through the way of His Son. That’s a party I know you’ll want to catch on video at your homecoming...when God calls you home. Pharisees or Sinners, God loves us all.

Charles Silliman

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 2020 by KeepSharing. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

The opinions expressed in River Region’s Journey are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. River Region’s Journey has the right to refuse any content that is not consistent with its statement of faith.

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Come Worship with Us!

Founded Upon God’s Word

Liturgically Joyful

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

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

Warm and Loving

Committed to Mission

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

The people of Christchurch respond to God’s Word by going out into the world proclaiming the good news of Jesus, and we joyfully serve as His hands and feet whether in places like Uganda and Guatemala or within Montgomery.

Sunday Worship: 9:30 a.m.

Christian Education: 11:00 a.m. on Sundays and 6 p.m. on Wednesdays

8800 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 www.christchurchmgm.net 334.387.0566

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January 2020

River Region’s Journey

Pastor’s Perspective

by Dr. Daniel Gillenwater, The Church at Eastern Oaks

Raising the Bar My sophomore year of high school, I competed in track and field for the first time. In fact, at my first competition, my coach signed me up for pole vaulting even though I had never practiced or even attempted to pole vault. But, I thought, “How hard could it be?” The answer…VERY HARD. After advice from some of the other guys, who clearly felt sorry for me, I actually cleared the first height and advanced to the next round. Here’s where I ran into a problem. After you clear a height in pole vaulting, they raise the bar! They continue raising the bar making it higher and harder each round. The point is to get better, to push yourself. You know you can clear the lower height, but can you do even better?

The New Year is always viewed as a time of new beginnings and resolutions. We can use this annual reset button to try and

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better our lives, to shed any bad habits, or maybe start some good ones. This is our opportunity to do better, to be better, and spiritually speaking, “raise the bar” in our life.

The writer of Hebrews tells us in Hebrews 6:1, “Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity…” I pray that everyone reading this has accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior. But that is NOT the end of your spiritual journey, it is the beginning. Now is the time, as the writer of Hebrews tells us, to “go on to maturity.” And the beginning of a brand new year is the perfect time to start.

Let me point out four biblical truths which are essential for experiencing spiritual growth this new year. First, we must set a goal and our goal is perfection! Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:48, “You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Paul tells us in I Corinthians 11:1 to “Be imitators of Christ.” Our goal is to be like Jesus and Jesus is perfect.

Too often we make miniscule progress, because we set miniscule goals. Let’s be bold in 2020 and set bold goals.

Now, for a reality check…we’ll never achieve perfection in this life. Therefore, the second biblical truth is, our expectation is progress. Paul writes in Philippians 3:12, “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own.” Paul simultane4

ously acknowledged he was not perfect while still pursuing perfection. No, we will not achieve perfection in 2020, or the year after, or the one after that; but, we do want to see progress as we pursue the perfection of Jesus.

If all of this is sounding a little overwhelming, don’t panic. This progress is not the result of our power alone. If Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior, it is His power which allows us to pursue and achieve spiritual growth. This is the third biblical truth; our ability is found in the power of God. Earlier in his letter to the Philippians, Paul writes Philippians 2:13, “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” It is the power of God working in us which allows us to grow into the likeness of Christ. The more we submit ourselves to the Lord, the more He will work in and through us.

Finally, as 2020 begins, I want you to know you’re not alone. Yes, the Lord is with you, but so are His people. This is the fourth biblical truth; our advantage is the People of God. We were created to live in community. Spiritual growth is a team sport.

The writer of Hebrews commands us not to forsake the local church (Hebrews 10:24).

If we want to grow and mature in our faith this year, that growth will take place in the context of a local family of believers. There are many great churches in the Montgomery area. Find one, get involved, and start raising that bar.

Pastor Daniel and his wife, Hanna, have been on staff at Eastern Oaks since December of 2004.

Daniel was born and raised right here in Montgomery, Alabama. He was called into full-time ministry while attending Auburn University Montgomery, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s in Business Management. He then went on to receive both his Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Beeson Divinity School. Daniel and Hanna have been married since January 2004, and have a daughter (Lydia) and son (Ford).

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On the Road with Saint Augustine:

Becoming C.S. Lewis

A Real-World Spirituality for Restless Hearts

Harry Lee Poe (2019)

James K. A. Smith (2019)

Very few people would dispute the idea that C.S. Lewis was one of the most influential Christian figures of the twentieth-century. His writings captivated the attention of young and old alike. He approach to apologetics drew the ire of atheists and bolstered believers.

While many are familiar with the writings of Lewis, fewer are acquainted with the backstory of his life. In steps Harry Lee Poe with his book, Becoming C.S. Lewis: A Biography of Young Jack Lewis (1898-1918).

Poe seeks to unpack the first two decades of Lewis’s life. The author successfully captures the relevant details of the young Lewis. Some of the details are expected; others are a surprise and will even come as a shock to most readers.

Poe has clearly done his homework on the project. He digs deeply into the early years of C.S. Lewis and sheds new light on the kinds of life experiences that shaped him to be one of the most cherished writers of our generation.

The postmodern prophet and rock star, Bono Vox, laments, “I have run, I have crawled, I have scaled these city walls, these city walls, only to be with you.

But I still haven’t found what I’m looking for.” U2’s lead singer isn’t the only one tapped into the inner drive and existential angst of the ages. Augustine had him beat by 1,600 years! “Oh Lord, you have created us for yourself but our hearts are restless until they find their rest in Thee.” It appears that Bono and Augustine have something in common!

Readers are in for a treat, especially the ones who have caricatured Augustine as a stuffy academician who puffs on a pipe, panders to the educated elite, and pontificates with an accent.

Smith notes, “The Christian gospel, for Augustine, wasn’t just the answer to an intellectual question (though it was that); it was more like a shelter in a storm, a port for a wayward soul, nourishment for a prodigal who was famished, whose own heart had become, he said, ‘a famished land.’” As such, the “famished land” of many professing Christians will be laid bare. The fertile soil of Augustine will help nurture, strengthen, and revitalize travelers who dare to follow his lead.

The most endearing feature of Smith’s work is the emphasis on what he refers to as a “refugee spirituality.” Such an approach is desperately needed in our day, especially when most people seem content in the here and now and are satisfied with temporal trinkets.

Smith traces the Augustinian path and focuses on several fascinating subjects that every pilgrim must wrestle with: freedom, ambition, sex, and death to name a few. On the Road With Saint Augustine: A Real-World Spirituality for Restless Hearts is a treasure map of sorts. Readers will see a totally new side of the Bishop of Hippo. Thoughtful readers will be prodded and poked.

But they will also be encouraged and edified. They will be forced into a corner and challenged to weigh these heavenly realities and ultimately find their rest in God and the gospel of His Son. Highly recommended!

River Region’s Journey

January 2020

Against the Darkness Graham A. Cole (2019) Against the Darkness: The Doctrine of Angels, Satan, and Demons is the most recent installment in Crossway’s Foundations of Evangelical Theology series, edited by John S. Feinberg. I have been reading these volumes since their inception and have thoroughly enjoyed the scholarship and depth that the authors share. Dr. Cole’s book is no exception.

Against the Darkness is targeted to pastors, church leaders, and lay scholars. It sets out to explore the subject of angelology in a biblical and comprehensive manner. No stone is left unturned in this volume as the author systematically unpacks the biblical doctrine of angels, demons, Satan, and spiritual warfare.

Cole is charitable with those he disagrees with and is gracious throughout this work. He is careful to avoid straw man arguments as he presents the views of scholars with whom he disagrees. His tone his noteworthy and should be emulated.

Against the Darkness is comprehensive in scope and is a very helpful book. I recommend it without reservation.

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His Vessel Ministries Announces “The Gathering Retreat”

His Vessel Ministries is excited to announce a women’s retreat, The Gathering: Becoming His Vessel for Life, to be held at The Lodge at Gulf State Park, 21196 East Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL, beginning Friday, February 28 through Saturday, February 29, 2020.

The teaching for both days of the event will be conducted by Jo Hancock, Founder and Director of His Vessel Ministries, with Worship Leader Julie Smothers. The Gathering will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday night and conclude late afternoon on Saturday. Overnight accommodations are available at The Lodge

at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel.

While discussing the upcoming retreat, Jo Hancock shared, “One of the recurring questions I hear from women is how to live a life that matters, and this will be our focus of the weekend, learning from God’s Word how we can purpose our lives for His Kingdom. It is troubling to know many people around us are merely existing, not really living.” The Gathering will be a time of spiritual nourishment, worship, encouragement, and fellowship for women of all ages and seasons of life.

The registration fee for the weekend is $99.00 and includes lunch on Saturday. Online registrations at hisvessel.org or accepted now by calling (334) 356-4478. Room reservations for The Lodge at Gulf State Park can be made by calling 800-618-4350 and using the code HVWR to obtain the special rates of $134.00 (park view) or $164.00 (gulf view). Rooms accommodate 1-4 guests per room and applicable taxes apply.

His Vessel Ministries, Inc., a 501(c) (3) non-profit provides Christ-centered teachings through Bible studies, yearly discipleship training and special teaching events written and published by Jo Hancock. His Vessel Ministries is in the Historic Union Station in downtown Montgomery, Alabama.

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Free Health Conference at Fountain of Grace Church

Fountain of Grace, 881 McQueen Smith Rd, Prattville, will host a Free Health Conference on Saturday, January 25 from 8:30 am until 12:30 pm. Guest speaker will be Dr. Teresa Allen of the Fontaine Center in Montgomery. Come learn how we can live our lives more healthy for the glory of God. Contact the church for more information at 334.365.5511 or fog.a@att.net.

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Night to Shine Special Needs Prom

The Night to Shine, Tim Tebow Foundation Special Needs Prom, will be hosted by Thorington Road Baptist Church on Friday, February 7, at Wynlakes Country Club in Montgomery for ages 14 and up. Volunteers and sponsors are also needed. For more information, email nighttoshine@ trbaptist.org or visit https://www. trbaptist.org/nighttoshine/.

Women’s Conference with Jen Pollock Michel

Friday, January 24, 2020, 6:30 PM Eastern Hills Baptist Church in Montgomery will be having its Women’s Conference with featured speaker Jen Pollock Michel on Friday and Saturday, January 24 and January 25. Friday’s session will be from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Saturday’s session will be from 8:30 a.m. until noon and includes a catered brunch.

For more information, please call the church office at (334) 272-0604 or email the Women’s Ministry Servant Team at ehbcwm@gmail.com.

NOT A CLUB...

A COMMUNITY JANUARY 23 6:30-9:00 PM FEATURING SPEAKERS FROM ONE STEP MINISTRIES Allison Wilks

Fitness for Everyone • Summer Camp • Youth Sports • Ability Programs

Free Event

Megan Woodham

REGISTER AT FBCPRATTVILLE.ORG/EVENTS

prattvilleymca.org • (334) 361-0268 9

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River Region’s Journey

Dannah Gresh’s True Girl Pajama Party Tour

Dannah Gresh’s True Girl Pajama Party Tour will be at First Baptist Church in Montgomery on Thursday, January 30, at 6:30 p.m.

The Pajama Party Tour is for moms and their 7-12 year old girls. This event gives an opportunity to study God’s truth together through live music, a fashion show, interactive games, and practical Biblical teaching.

Purchase tickets at mytruegirl.com/events.

Weekend to Remember for Couples

FamilyLife will be hosting its Weekend to Remember, a marriage getaway, in Montgomery on Friday through Sunday, February 14 through February 16, at the Embassy Suites.

The weekend combines general sessions with designated times set aside for projects to complete as a couple. Registration is required and may be made online.

Adoption Support Group

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. Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery For more information call Jill Sexton at 409-9477.

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• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping • Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course • Climbing Tower • Outdoor Nature Skills • Sports • Soccer • Basketball

inning, w d r a w a n a n o t Don’t miss ou p for your m a c d e r te n e c tis Chr mmer! daughter this Su On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama

Best of Parenting WINNER 10

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Susan & Larry Hooks, Owners & Directors Donna Bares, Assistant Director

800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com

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• Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program • Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!

REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! Choose from 1- and 2-week Sessions and Mother-Daughter Weekends!

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Preventing the Frost in Your Heart It’s easy for us to pray and worship when things are going well. It’s quite different when we have been repeatedly stung by spiteful words, betrayed by a friend, or wounded by the unfairness of life. That’s when bitterness and resentment can form like thin layers of ice around our hearts. We tend to lash out at ourselves and everyone around us. We start to feel a separation from God and a distance from relatives and friends.

We can blame others for our troubles and we can blame God. We can feel abandoned and humiliated, retreating from those we love to go off and feel sorry for ourselves. Or we can do something different

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and call on the Holy Spirit to blow His warm wind of love to melt the ice away. Which reminds me of something I learned recently about frost, fruit trees, and helicopters.

In winter, fruit trees are dormant and frost does not affect them very much. But once trees have budded in early spring, a sudden frost can destroy an orchard’s entire crop. That’s what happened on farms across Arizona in 1987. In response, Arizona University began to analyze ways to protect their orchards. The result was a study recommending the use of helicopters to prevent frost damage. That’s right, helicopters.

They discovered that a phenomenon called inversion occurs when a winter storm makes already cold temperatures drop rapidly. During inversion, air 50 feet above the ground actually becomes warmer than air at the surface.

Therefore, rotor blades of a helicopter flying just above the trees will push warmer air down and out. But a few minutes after the flyover, the trees start getting frigid again. So, helicopters must make multiple passes to stop the frost from forming.

Such flights have saved millions of dollars for farmers raising grapes in California, oranges in Florida, and peaches in Alabama. It’s a dramatic solution to a gigantic problem. I see an analogy to that other problem, the frost in our relationships caused by bitterness and regret.

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God has promised us that we who believe in Christ will bear fruit. Paul says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit,” (Galatians 5:22-25) NIV. But our spiritual fruit can get stunted by a frost in our soul. That’s when we need the Holy Spirit to swoop down like a helicopter, stirring up the air around us and blowing the warmth of God’s love into us. Jesus said to His disciples, “‘Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.’ And with that he breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit,’” (John 20:21-22) NIV. When we respond to our pain by being rude or spiteful to others, we are acting like the world. And the world is listening and watching. Our witness for Christ can go right out the window. And though that’s a natural response to being slighted, disrespected, or cheated, we as Christians cannot live only in the natural. We have been given a secret helicopter to change our attitude.

I know comparing the Holy Spirit of God to a man-made machine seems strange, but bear with me a moment.

Sometimes we need God to come into our lives in a major way. We need a force that seems outside ourselves, although we know He dwells within us. He brings a love and compassion for others that we cannot create without Him. Some days we find that hard to believe. Why would God be so loving to us?

We have all sinned. We have all fallen short of the glory He has designed for us. But true it is. We have only to kneel before Him and receive His grace.

Let that warm wind blow over you today. Forgive and be forgiven. It will keep the frost away and make you fruitful in God’s kingdom. After all, he is the vine. We are the branches.

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Oliver: I’m fueled by purpose in each of these areas; I desire to give my best effort in each of these areas daily. I’m inspired by what could happen if I give less than my best in one of these areas.

As a fireman, if I decide to give a subpar effort someone may perish in a house fire. As a fitness coach I’m inspired to give my best because it’s up to me for a person to discover their internal strength to maximize their external boldness. If I decide to give less than my best as a husband, I am willingly failing my wife on our agreement of being her protector, priest, and provider. It’s my job to give her the best life possible here on Earth. And, finally, if I decide to give less than my best as a father, my children will suffer because I am their example of a God fearing father, man of integrity, leader, and disciplinarian.

RRJ: Thank you, Oliver, for taking the time to share your “Faith @ Work” story with our readers. To begin, please tell us how you came to believe in God and His plan of redemption through Jesus.

Oliver: My belief in God started as a young child attending weekly church services and watching the demonstration set forth by my mother and grandfather. But my true belief happened as a senior in college when I sought after a relationship with God. That’s when I discovered his true love, and that he had a perfect plan for my life. No matter what I had done in the past.

RRJ: You stay active in your job as a fireman, fitness coach, husband, and father to two. Where do your energy and inspiration come from?

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for my life as I lead them to having their best life.

RRJ: In your walk with the Lord, what are some tools and/or resources that are vital in keeping your faith strong?

Oliver: Daily alone meditation time, reading the word of God, and surrounding myself with others who believe.

RRJ: In 1 Corinthians 6:19, we read that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit and it goes on to say that we do not belong to ourselves, but to God. How does this scripture speak to you?

Oliver: I put this passage of scripture into the perspective of a rental car.

God has graced us with this marvelous vehicle to carry us through this journey called life. In order for us to perform

RRJ: We live in a world where emphasis is placed on political correctness, which can make living “loud” for Jesus difficult. How do your employees and coworkers know you are a Christ follower?

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?

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Oliver: By demonstrating daily actions such as praying over food, giving open acknowledgement of thanks, and using social media platforms to acknowledge Christ.

Oliver: My family has been very instrumental in my faith journey. My family is my second biggest driving force of daily decisions that I make.

My family has given me the privilege of earning the title husband and father.

This makes me seek God even more on a daily basis to discover what His will is

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at our best, we must fuel it with great substance (FOOD) that helps and not harms the body. We must have routine maintenance (doctor visits) done to our vehicle. And, most importantly, we must

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keep negative people from carpooling and weighing us down as we seek to get to certain destinations. This passage of scripture speaks volume to me because it tells me that my body has the privilege of housing the Holy Spirit. So I choose to keep this vehicle in its best condition inside and out.

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RRJ: In our work, we can become the hands of God. Have you found that you have opportunities to serve others in your occupations?

SHE ONCE BUILT A FORT SO LARGE, THAT IT UTILIZED EVERY BLANKET, TOWEL, AND CHAIR IN THE WHOLE HOUSE.

Oliver: In my line of work, I have found that sometimes we have to be vessels for people to pour into and receive from.

Many people have walked into my facility troubled and discouraged. It’s my job to remind them of what the word of God says about the current situation that they’re facing.

RRJ: If you could give your younger self a piece of advice, what would it be?

Oliver: It’s not about the results that you achieve, but it’s the person that you become in the process. Also, whatever you desire to pursue, give your absolute best effort or don’t attempt at all.

CHILDREN A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY

RRJ: Sometimes fellow Christians struggle to continue living out their faith beyond Sunday morning. How would you encourage all of us to allow our faith to be a constant force in our lives?

Oliver: Ask yourself how much you value your relationship with the Lord.

For example, ways that I show my wife that I value her are by giving her words of affirmation, calling her while I’m at the fire station, and spending quality time. These are all things that are done daily, not once per week. Just to show that I value and appreciate her. Same goes for fellow Christians... if we value our relationship with God we must make time and show the Father how much we value him.

and at Children’s of Alabama, we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential.

That’s why we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds, the most skilled hands and the most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine.

1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H B I R M I N G H A M , A L 3 5 2 3 3

(205) 638-9100

ChildrensAL.org

Oliver Wells is owner/head coach at Souled Owt Fitness (7 years) and a Montgomery firefighter (4 years). He is married to Cherrie and they have two children: Ava-Jade and John Edward Isaac. Oliver serves as the usher ministry leader at Faith Church, Montgomery.

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Conviction with Compassion In February of 2019, lawmakers in New York state stood and applauded themselves as they passed a sinister law allowing abortion up until the time of birth at the time, it represented a bold, new front regarding abortion and was a contributing factor to a number of states passing laws that restricted abortion to a greater degree.

The passage of that law apparently motivated a couple, Blake and Sarah Thomas, to post on social media a picture of themselves holding a sign that said: “Please don’t abort...we will adopt your baby!” Under the photo were these words, “Don’t abort your baby!

We will adopt! Please contact us if you’d be open to adoption as an option! #adoptionislife” A ChristianHeadlines.com story relates: “We wanted to put a face to adoption and help women realize there is another great option available to them,” Sarah Thomas said, according to WND. With her husband Blake, the couple has two children: a 2-year-old son adopted from foster care and a 6-month-old biological son.

The article relates that the Thomases “were inspired” by another couple who had gone on social media in 2015 to encourage young mothers “to seek adoption instead of abortion.”

The Christian Headlines story quoted from the Thomases’ Facebook post: “We have been completely overwhelmed by what God has done over the past week!” They related they had decided to adopt a child from one of the mothers who had responded to their post. The WND story, from The Western Journal website, related Sarah’s words: River Region’s Journey

January 2020

“Our hope and prayer was to save the life of a baby who may never know the joy of being born, and the Lord has answered that prayer!”

The Thomases can teach us some practical and valuable lessons. So can a couple from Ohio: KC and Angel Ahlers were blessed with an infant son named RJ. They knew they had a child with serious medical issues, according to the website for the TODAY show on NBC. The site says: When Angel Ahlers’ son was born, doctors knew something was wrong with Randy James. An ultrasound showed that the white matter in the center of his brain was underdeveloped, something known as agenesis of the Corpus Callosum. A month later, blood tests revealed the infant, who the Ahlers call RJ, also has Trisomy 9 Mosaic Syndrome. Both conditions are extremely rare.

There are enormous medical bills; already, the child has been under the treatment of eight specialists. The couple posted a sign on the side of the road directing people to their GoFundMe page.

Then, KC saw that another sign had been posted underneath it, which read: “Stop asking for money. Let the baby die. Its called Darwinism. Happy holidays.”

Angel initially felt anger, but then, she decided to take a different route. She related: “I was thinking about it: There’s obviously something going on in that disturbed person’s life that made them feel compelled to do something like that,” she said.

“I let them know that under no uncertain terms was I going to let hatred win out.

We are going to teach our son that love wins above all.”

The article goes on to say that the couple “filmed a video, which they shared on Facebook.” Angel said: “We’re going to battle your hatred with love. We’re going to pray for you.”

The story has received national media attention, and people are responding.

Angel says regarding the support: “Blown away. Definitely there was a time where I was just speechless,” adding, “I looked at my husband and he goes, ‘There are just no words.’” The article also reports: Ahlers said she also hopes that others will become more empathetic after hearing about RJ, who is a “very happy baby” who “smiles, laughs, giggles and coos” all the time.

Both couples are obviously thankful for the gift of life and we can be thankful for our life-giving Creator, who has chosen to give each of us life.

These stories can also encourage us, as Romans 12 teaches us, “overcome evil with good.” We see in the lives of two couples a sense of deep conviction and they have chosen compassion. The Thomases reached out to mothers who were facing difficult pregnancy situations, the Ahlerses stood with love in the face of anger – we can make sure that we are displaying the love of God in the circumstances we encounter.

The Bible teaches us that our faith in Christ should produce works for His glory.

These couples have certainly demonstrated action motivated by faith.

Finally, we should always possess an openness to God’s will. That may sometimes be expressed in what may be considered radical or extreme ways.

If we are followers of Christ, we can rely on Him to prepare us to go outside the status quo.

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The latest edition of the Faith Radio Ministry Magazine features the topic of prayer.

To subscribe to our Magazine, please contact us.

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Faith Radio believes in the power of prayer and the special opportunity that corporate prayer provides.

Coming before the Lord with other believers in a time of confession, adoration, thanksgiving, or supplication is a powerful, faith-building experience. This is one of the reasons the Faith Radio staff prays together every weekday morning for you, our listeners, and any needs that we know of in our community. We encourage you to send us any prayer requests you have and know that we will be praying for you.

Contact us: Mail@faithradio.org | 800-239-8900 | PO Box 210789, Montgomery, Al 36121 Listen Live Now • www.faithradio.org • Montgomery WLBF 89.1 FM 17

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Entering the building of the Medical Outreach Ministries feels much like entering just about any medical practice in the River Region, but it doesn’t take long to realize that what goes on within the walls of the building reaches much further than just a visit with a healthcare professional. Sure, there is a patient waiting area, a lab, exam rooms, a pharmacy, a room for a physical therapist to work with patients, and even a small teaching area for newly diagnosed individuals with diabetes. And yet despite the appearance of a standard office designed to reach the needs of those it serves, one could easily say it reaches the heart. That is because of the dedicated staff and volunteers who come together to serve those in need of quality healthcare at little to no cost to the patient.

What began 26 years ago in the basement of a church, off of what is now known as Maxwell Boulevard, has grown today to serve more than 1,200 patients throughout the River Region. And while the program has grown and expanded, the mission remains the same: to provide free quality health care to the uninsured and medically under served in Montgomery, Autauga and Elmore counties in Alabama.

According to the ministry’s website, since 1998, Medical Outreach Ministries (MOM) has provided more than $30 million worth of medical care to neighbors in need.

by Katie Blair

River Region’s Journey

January 2020

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While the poorest of the poor may be eligible for Medicaid or other public assistance, there are many uninsured individuals in the community who fall through the cracks of the healthcare system.

“Many times their only access to a physician for even the most common illnesses is through the local emergency departments. Through financial and volunteer contributions, Medical Outreach Ministries is able to improve access to medical care for these members of our community,” explains Medical Outreach Ministries Executive Director Molly Stone (left).

MOM fulfills the medical needs of the River Region in a unique way. Stone explains, “Medical Outreach Ministries is the only free healthcare clinic for the uninsured operating in our three-county service area.

In 2018, MOM served 1,216 unique patients in 10,704 patient encounters. MOM’s patient totals have grown significantly since its early days, surpassing a total of 100,000 patient encounters recorded from 2005 to 2018 and more than doubling the annual number of encounters. MOM offers both primary and specialty care to area residents who do not have any public or private health insurance and earn less than 200% of the Federal poverty level. Patients are screened for eligibility, and once they are

accepted, they are provided free primary care and medications on a routine basis. Patients rescreen annually to provide proof that they remain eligible to receive care.”

None of these services would be possible without the committed volunteers who serve the ministry day in and day out.

“MOM benefits from the faithful service of 15 volunteer physicians, 17 nurses, 3 mental health counselors, 6 registered pharmacists, and a certified diabetes educator who provide primary care, orthopedics, gynecology, medications, counseling, and diabetes education in MOM’s clinic,” Stone says. “MOM has also developed a network of more than 60 specialists and dentists who agree to see our patients for specialty care on a pro bono basis.”

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“Among MOM’s low income, high need patient population, the rates of chronic disease are even higher than in the general population. Diabetes is especially prevalent with 44.8% of MOM’s patients having a diagnosis of prediabetes, Type 1, or Type 2 diabetes. MOM recently renewed the recognition for its Diabetes Self-Management Education program from the American Diabetes Association and remains the only ADA-recognized program in the country that is volunteer-run and operated for the benefit of low-income patients,” says Stone.

MOM also ensures that patients are able to receive their prescribed medications, thanks to the work of volunteers and partnering pharmaceutical programs.

“MOM’s Patient Advocate enrolls patients in patient assistance programs (PAP) of pharmaceutical companies which provide free brand name medications for chronic conditions.

Through the PAP process, MOM distributes more than $3.5 million in free medications annually. In addition, MOM pays a monthly fee to access donated medications through a charitable medication distributor. All other needed medications are purchased through a wholesale pharmacy. MOM’s onsite pharmacy filled more than 26,000 prescriptions last year for our patients, saving them millions of dollars and providing them with life-saving medications that they would not be able to otherwise access.”

Why the need for this ministry in the River Region?

“Uninsured adults face significant barriers in access to healthcare with cost being the most difficult to overcome,” explains Stone.

“They are less likely to seek preventative care and will forego treatment for chronic conditions due to cost. More than 15% of adults in MOM’s service area are uninsured, a total of more than 30,000 people. In addition, the River Region has some of the highest rates of chronic disease in the nation – 36.6% of adults are obese; 12.9% have diabetes; and 19.8% are smokers. These factors combined with a lack of access to care create a healthcare crisis that MOM works to overcome by removing the significant barrier of cost.”

Through the work of MOM, the patients are able to receive quality care that also includes education for persons diagnosed with ongoing conditions.

Volunteers are essential and always needed.

None of this would be possible without the generous donations of time and funding. Stone emphasizes the fact that the services provided are due to the level of committed volunteers who serve the ministry faithfully each week, but is quick to note

Worship with us Sundays at 8, 9:30 or 11am as we kick off 2020 with a teaching series on how to love our city. Come be a part of what God is doing at Frazer to transform Montgomery and the River Region!

6000 Atlanta Highway in Montgomery | www.frazer.church River Region’s Journey

January 2020

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that volunteers do not have to have a medical background in order to serve. MOM benefits from the service of more than 80 volunteers.

There are a wide-range of volunteer opportunities, both medical and non-medical, available.

“We have a need for volunteers with all kinds of skill sets,” Stone said. Currently, there is a need for patient screeners, pill counter/ sorter, clerical receptionist, appointment reminders, data entry, data analysis, technology support, graphic design and copywriting, building and ground maintenance, ministry care team, event planning, fundraising, grant writing, and special projects.

The medical-related volunteer opportunities include: physician, nurse (RN or LPN), medical assistant, dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant, pharmacist, pharmacy tech, certified diabetes educator, registered dietitian, mental health counselor, physical therapist, speech therapist, and social worker.

“Volunteers are the foundation of the work done here. There is a place for everyone to volunteer,”says Stone.

MOM also accepts donations to assist with its medical programs for uninsured adults. Funds raised are used to purchase medications, medical supplies and services for more than 1,200 patients annually. MOM is able to accept medication donations from the public as long as the seal has not been broken or the medicine has not been opened, but cannot accept expired or opened medication. The ministry also appreciate gifts of medical

or office supplies, computer support and other goods and services that might benefit MOM. The ministry also values the support of prayer.

“Please keep MOM’s patients, providers, volunteers, and staff in your prayers as we seek to serve our friends and neighbors in the River Region,” Stone says, especially as the new year ushers in some exciting changes for MOM. “MOM recently acquired a new facility and is in the process of renovation to move in during early 2020. The new facility will offer the opportunity to increase the number of patients served and to increase MOM’s capacity for service by expanding current services and adding new services. MOM intends to eventually add dental treatment to MOM’s onsite services, which would meet a huge need among MOM’s patient population. There will also be additional space for more physicians, a larger pharmacy, increased physical therapy, and dedicated patient screening space to alleviate the need for patients to arrive early in the morning on screening days.”

If you would like to volunteer with MOM or connect with them, you may reach them through their website www.momclinic. org, email admin@med-outreach.org, or find them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/momclinicmgm/.

Katie Blair is a graduate of Auburn University in Montgomery with a degree in Elementary Education. She currently serves as a Children’s Ministry Partner with Frazer United Methodist Church. She is a freelance writer and blogger who writes about family life. She resides in Montgomery, Alabama with her husband, two children, and their dog, Rosie.

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Reconsidering Making Futile Resolutions: A Better Way Now is the time when most people assess where they are and where they want to go next. They create resolutions based on spiritual, physical, emotional, or mental goals they desire. Statistics tell us that only 25% of people will keep to their resolutions after 30 days and only 8% of resolutions are ever completely fulfilled. Yet, we continue to make these doomed promises. Didn’t someone once say that to repeatedly do the same failed behavior is insanity?

Instead of insanely focusing on what you don’t have, try sanely utilizing your assets to create a better world around you. Replace far-reaching goals with a list of the things you bring to your world, spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically. Yes, make a list.

First, what are your spiritual assets? There are qualities that enable you to do what is right and good, whether for yourself or for other people.

How can you practically use your spiritual assets? You can change the tension in a room by displaying a godly attitude.

You can model compassion in your speech when others are riled and spilling out venom. You can just be different in a positive way when negativity seems to be politically correct. Spiritual assets bring an attitude to bear that promotes community and good will.

One family I know determined to meet once a month by way of phone to pray for the members of their family who did not know Jesus as their Savior. Over time, one by one, many of their relatives came to know God’s mighty grace as answers to their prayers.

Second, what are your physical assets? These can include your physical body or those material items you have around you. Do you have boundRiver Region’s Journey

January 2020

less energy and can make an extra effort to help finish a project for someone who is stuck in the middle of it? This may be for other people at work or for those at home. Perhaps you have a great backyard for gathering and can offer it as a place where the youth ministry could have cookouts over the summer.

A physical asset is amplified with use. Look for opportunities to use yours. A church family had a “Blessing Basket” in their home. Each member of the family put at least one item in the basket each month. It could be hand-made craft or food or a slightly used item from their closet.

They donated the basket to the church’s homeless ministry.

Third, what are your emotional assets? Are you able to identify with a certain type of person and help them through a negative situation? Perhaps you have the ability to see past surface talk and discern another person’s needs. Using an emotional asset does not need to drag you into someone else’s problems. You choose the type and amount of support you are going to give. You follow your example in Jesus and do only what you see the Father doing. Underlying your support is a God-given asset to care and love those God has put on the Earth.

One of my friends asked God to help her spot someone in the lobby before or after church that needed an emotional boost. She would either invite the person to her home for Sunday dinner or out to a restaurant. The spontane22

ity was invigorating to many of those she reached out to in this way.

Fourth, what are your mental assets? This has nothing to do with IQ but everything to do with your talents, education, and experience. If you are someone who organizes easily, make two lasagnas instead of one so someone else can have a day off from cooking. If you know how to manage finances easily, you can give tips and goals to your children to train them early in moneymanagement. You may need to lead a small study group on a particular area of capability that many others would love to have.

One woman I know held two-day seminars once a year for mothers who were regularly succumbing to feeding their families fast food. She showed them how to make a six-week meal plan that was easy to manage with only one-hour per week prep time, and included shopping lists, recipes, and even tastings for those who attended.

What is so great about these new types of “resolutions” is that they aren’t full of must-dos that can overwhelm your weekly schedule. When an opportunity arises to use your assets you take the courage and responsibility to use them well. Every time you put one of your assets into play, you bless others, mature in your faith, and honor the One who says, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” What a great way to spend this next year!

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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

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If you’re thinking about sending your child to a faith-based school, there are many factors to consider just like with shopping for any private school. Academics, enrichment opportunities, location, and price are just a few of the things you’ll want to weigh out. With faith-based schools, however, there are additional considerations.

The following guide will help you to make an informed decision in choosing the school that’s best for your family and your child’s education and avoid a costly mistake.

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What are the reasons parents choose faithbased schools?

Many parents of various faiths and even of no faith contemplate the idea of sending their kids to a faith-based school. For those considering a private school, religious schools are sometimes a more affordable alternative. But there are many other reasons families may consider a faithbased school as well. Parents are often looking for a school that provides their child with one or more of the following: • a religious education that mirrors the families’ beliefs • teachings that instill faith and obedience to God • a better learning environment • the benefits of smaller class sizes • more individualized attention 24

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• a feeling of belonging in a community • better college preparation • a more convenient or safer location than alternative options in the area

Is a faith-based education right for your family?

If you’re considering sending your child to a faith-based school, you’ll want to consider several factors. Begin by making a list of all the reasons, or the pros, for sending your kids to a faith-based school.

This may include any of the reasons mentioned above, among many others.

But in making a thoughtful decision, it’s also important to consider the cons.

For your family, these may include: • the amount of time spent on religious studies, prayer, and other faith-related activities that takes away from academics • admission policies that may exclude or not adequately assist children with particular learning, behavioral, or mental health disabilities, or other groups • fewer extracurricular activities • unaccredited textbooks and/or science and history curriculums based on the school’s beliefs rather than verified facts • lack of exposure to other faiths and cultures Keep in mind, every faith-based school is different. The above may apply to some religious schools and not others.

How to choose a faith-based school that’s right for your family

If you’ve weighed out the pros and cons and decided in favor of a faith-based education for your child, the next step is to determine which school is right for your family. You’ll want to ask many of the same questions you would for any private school, such as: • How much is tuition?

• Is financial aid available?

• What is the student-teacher ratio?

• What are the teachers’ qualifications and how are teachers supported?

• How much homework is there?

• What help is available if my child is struggling academically?

• What is the grading system?

• Are uniforms required, or is there a dress code?

• What is the discipline policy?

• What extracurricular activities are available?

• What is the school’s culture like?

• What is the school’s system for accountability?

In regards to the last question, faithbased schools don’t have the same governmental regulations as public schools.

So religious schools may not meet the same stringent requirements. A few areas that may differ include teacher certification, curriculum, textbooks, special education, length of the school year, and health and safety requirements, among other aspects.

Religious factors to consider when choosing a school

If your family is religious, you may want to look for a school within your faith.

If your family isn’t religious or is considering a school of another denomination, you’ll want to find out how much of the curriculum and day is spent on faithbased activities.

Also, keep in mind that beliefs and practices vary widely even within particular religions and among denominations.

You want to make sure the values instilled by the school you’re considering are in line with yours. To help you make that determination, talk to other parents whose kids attend the school. Also, ask school staff the following: • How much of the school’s faith is embedded in the curriculum? What are the school’s teachings in science regarding biology and evolution? What about history, such as when life on earth began?

• How is religion taught in the classroom? Do students learn about other faiths as well or does the school discourage learning about other religions?

• What does the physical setting of the school and classrooms look like? Is it adorned with a lot of religious symbols and statements?

• Does the school discourage kids from mixing with those of other faiths outside of school?

Whether your family is of the particular faith of the school or not, make sure you’re comfortable with the answers. Also, ask for a tour of the school, which can provide additional insight into many of these questions.

Choosing the right school for your child requires leg-work and can be a tough decision. But by making an informed decision, you can alleviate significant stress for yourself and your child.

It will also ease your child’s adjustment to the new school and reduce the likelihood of any regrets.

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance lifestyle writer. She also writes content, blog posts, and more for businesses in a variety of industries and is an expert in on-page SEO. Find her at kimberlyblaker.com

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One Family

Thoughts on Advent and the New Year Trying to write this article about the “New Year” in December has proven to be challenging. I have made it a special focus this year to deeply immerse myself in the wonderful, holy traditions of Advent.

Advent is about waiting and longing for the birth of the long anticipated Savior of the world. Part of preparing for Advent is looking back at history and seeing how the world has always needed a King and a Savior. It is a time to be thankful for the believers that came before us and for their faithfulness to God’s call on their lives. It is a time to meditate, prepare, anticipate, and to ultimately become aware of our need for someone to rescue us. This someone, of course, being God Himself in the form of the person of Jesus.

So, while practicing these traditions, I am also having to think of the New Year (so that this article will be submitted on time). The contrast between these two seasons feels drastic to this writer. One is slow, thoughtful, and full of anticipation of what is to come. It is our recognizing that we are helpless alone and that we have need for a Savior.

Simultaneously, the more self-empowering thoughts of the New Year come sweeping in. The New Year tends to focus on what “I” can do differently. How can River Region’s Journey

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my own determination, effort, and ability get me where I need to be in the coming year. The shift seems so drastic from one month to the next: December I find myself recognizing my need of Someone to help me, while January finds me pondering what I can do on my own accord. This change, both jarring and abrupt, seems to put these two importantly reflective times at odds with one another.

I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to leave Advent behind for the rest of the year. What are some of the gifts of Advent that might stay with us all year?

Let’s take a look together and see what practices we could carry into the New Year. Perhaps if we entered the New Year with Advent as the backdrop, we might enter the year 2020 with more peace and dependency on Christ instead of thinking it is all up to us. What if we were able to also anticipate the coming of Christ again to this earth - anticipation of one day being together with Him?!

What purpose and meaning could that add to our lives?

As I’ve been processing these seemingly opposing seasons, my readings for Advent have been teaching me the difference between what the Greeks called chromo (defined as the passing of time as a measurable quantity of days, weeks and years) as opposed to Kairos (alternatively defined as time not measured by its duration, but instead by its quality and significance). Given these drastically different views on the concept of time, I’ve 26

come upon a challenging question to both ponder, then act upon, as I enter into this season of new beginnings, and I invite you to wrestle with this as well: Are we just “passing” our time here on earth (chronos) or are we looking at the quality and the significance of our lives (Kairos), and making decisions with those aspects of life in mind? We all want our lives to matter, but we get caught up in all the day to day buzz and distraction and allow the trivial to pull us away from the meaningful.

You matter, your life matters because God gave you life and breath just as He gave His Son life and breath. We are co-heirs with Him. So welcome to 2020!

Set goals or intentions for the New Year, but do it with the backdrop on our dependency on the Christ Child… the child that we longed and looked for in December. Let’s not leave Him back in December! May He be born anew every day in my heart and yours in the year 2020!

Christy Holding, LPC is a long time resident of Montgomery. She is a graduate of Trinity Presbyterian School. She received her undergraduate degree at Liberty University in 1976 and obtained her master’s degree in Counseling from Georgia State University in 1984. She graduated a BS in nursing in 1996 and has worked in hospice dealing with grief and loss. Christy’s practice at The Samaritan Counseling Center is primarily with those struggling with depression, anxiety disorders, and self-harming behaviors including eating disorders. Christy has a passion to see people walk in wholeness and freedom and experience the life they were created to live.

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Extraordinary Academics. Extraordinary Arts.

Extraordinary Athletics. Extraordinary Faculty.

All to the Glory of God.

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Accredited K3 through 12th Grade Independent College-Preparatory School Trinity School is Montgomery’s foremost educational institution providing students the highest quality college-preparatory education, training them in the biblical world and life view, enabling them to serve God in spirit, mind, and body. Trinity offers a rigorous academic program, award-winning fine arts program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. The Trinity Experience is extraordinary in every way—an education that is as unique as your child.

If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact Director of Admission Jenny McClinton at 334.213.2213 or jmcclinton@trinitywildcats.com.

Tuition assistance is available. Discount offered to our military families.

Trinitywildcats.com

AT TRINITY, WE...

Discover the brilliance within each child.

Surround him/her with a strong family atmosphere.

Show him/her how to excel in more than one area.

Encourage students to strive for excellence.

Emphasize Christ-like character above all else.

Build leaders who possess mental, physical, and spiritual strength.

One World. One School. One Family.

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Parents of prospective K3, K4, and K5 students are invited to Open House, January 23 at 6:00 pm.

RSVP at trinitywildcats.com or by emailing Jenny January 2020 River Region’s Journey 27 McClinton, jmcclinton@trinitywildcats.com.

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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 Christ-centered 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.

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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

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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. 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.

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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.

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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.

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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 495-6350 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 467-4578 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

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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 495-6350 or e-mail jan@frazerumc.org.

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.

January 2020

River Region’s Journey

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.

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 3655977.

Location: Frazer UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Grief Recovery Support Group meets Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., Rm 3105. Call 495-6350 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 334-2798331 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: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Frazer mom2mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of ages birth to 5 at Frazer UMC to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. Email Mom2mom@ frazerumc.org for more information.

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January 2020

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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 3:004:00. Call Annette Jones for more information on joining us or training to start your own group. 850529-4730 or email Montgomerymipac@gmail.com

2020

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 495-6350 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 495-6350 for more info.

Location: Vaughn Park Church, 3800 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach Group meets 2nd Friday of each month from 6:308 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. Please contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail.com.

Send support group info to deanne@readjourneymagazine.com 31

January 2020

River Region’s Journey

Decisions & Sacrifices Q. We have two preschool kids, and I’m

a stay-at-home mom. My husband brings home about $2,500 a month, and our mortgage payment is $1,000 a month.

Recently, we’ve had to tap into our savings in order to pay the bills. Should I go back to work? There are a couple of reputable daycare centers near us, but I’m just not sure if this is the right thing to do.

A. Being a full-time mom is a wonderful thing. And honestly, I can’t blame you for wanting to stay home with your children when they’re so young.

The biggest problem I see is that 40 percent of your husband’s paycheck is going toward your mortgage. That’s way too much! A house payment should never be more than 25 percent of your take-home pay.

River Region’s Journey

January 2020

I know trying to live on the $1,500 that’s left is hard, especially with two babies in the house. But it doesn’t sound like a lot of fat can be trimmed right now. One of you might consider taking on a part-time job nights or weekends for a while, or he could look into enhancing his education.

Either one of these would help get your income up.

Selling the house is an option, too. But I’m not a fan of that one except in the most extreme circumstances.

Right now, I’m viewing this as a math problem with three components. The components are income, house payment, and lifestyle. You and your husband need to sit down, and have a serious heart-to-heart talk about things. There will have to be some sacrifices in order to make things better, but only the two of you together can determine exactly what’s best for your family.

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How Much Emergency Fund?

Q. I know you talk about having an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses set aside. My husband and I are having a difficult time agreeing on exactly how much we should set aside for emergencies. How do you determine the exact amount?

A. If you both have very stable jobs, you’d probably be okay saving three or four months of expenses. But if one of you is self-employed, makes most of their money through commissions, or only one of you works outside the home, it would make more sense to have five or six months of expenses set aside.

Of course, you can always compromise while leaving room for growth.

There’s nothing wrong starting out with three months of expenses saved, then adding more as time goes by. The main thing is that you’re both in agreement, and you both feel safe with the amount of money in your emergency fund!

Alabama Baptist

STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS Serving with you

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2020 @ 12:00 P.M. HERITAGE BAPTIST CHURCH MONTGOMERY

during the State Evangelism Conference

RELATED MEETINGS

ALL AT HERITAGE BAPTIST CHURCH

DI S C I PL E M A K I N G M I N I ST RI E S DI N N E R Sunday, February 23 at 4:30 p.m.

Register at alsbom.org/disciplemakingdinner

“ R EAC H I N G G E N Z ” LUN C H EO N

Monday, February 24, Noon-1:15 p.m.

featuring special guest speaker

Dr. Rhonda Kelley

author, professor, and wife of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary President Emeritus Dr. Chuck Kelley

REGISTER ONLINE AT ALABAMAWMU.ORG or CALL 800.264.1225 ext. 325 This event is free, but reservations are required. Space is limited. Open to ministers’ wives only. Thank you for your understanding.

Register at alsbom.org/SEC

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ISSION ADM

CONFERENCE FOR HISPANIC PASTORS AND LEADERS

Monday, February 24, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Who’s Your One? district trainings will be held throughout 2020.

Visit alsbom.org/whosyourone for details.