River Region's Journey July 2017 by KeepSharing

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REGISTER TODAY Experience this event in our region at: Frazer United Methodist Church 6000 Atlanta Highway in Montgomery frazer.church/summit

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Volume 19, Issue 3

Feature Articles

JU LY 20 1 7 Columns page 2

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Publisher’s Note

The Local Church

Jason Watson

Love It or Leave It by Scott Sauls

In a day when many are choosing to live the Christian life outside of the Church, find out why having a church family and home is and always will be part of God’s plan for His people.

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Pastor's Perspective Daniel Atkins, Taylor Road Baptist Church

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Pondering the Journey Sam Whatley

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Women Arising Pastor Kemi Searcy

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The Intersection Bob Crittenden

Our 2017 listing of River Region churches can help you plug into a local church...to be strengthened in your faith as you fellowship with and serve others. Churches, and details about each, are listed in zip code order so you can find a great church right near your home.

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Counselor’s Corner Candyce Anderson, LPC

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Dave $ays Dave Ramsey

In Every Issue

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Ministry Spotlight:

Montgomery S.T.E.P. Foundation by Ashley Sherlock

With the help of its church partnerships, Sederick Fluker and S.T.E.P. has developed a framework for individuals and churches to work hand-in-hand to fulfill the needs of those living in at-risk communities. Learn how S.T.E.P. has impacted the River Region over the years and exciting possibilities on the horizon. 1

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Books to Read page 8

Around Our Community page 10

Faith @ Work page 34

Support Groups July 2017

River Region’s Journey

CCH Maga

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 Candyce Anderson, LPC Pastor Daniel Atkins Tim Challies Bob Crittenden Dave Ramsey Scott Sauls Kemi Searcy Ashley Sherlock Sam Whatley

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

Digital Manager Scott Davis

Ad Design

Tim Welch, Welch Designs

Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell

From the Publisher Each July we publish our River Region Church Directory. This is our 19th edition and it’s always been one of my favorite issues. I can’t help it, I love church. When I was young we attended church occasionally or when we visited my mother’s family, where we sometimes got lucky and showed up the same day as the church potluck. To this day, there’s nothing like the site of folding tables lined wall-to-wall, covered in family recipes and the occasional eyesore tub of grocery store potato salad. If all those deserts crowded together on the last two tables isn’t a sign of God’s love for man, then what is? Back home, if my mother didn’t have the strength to fight the battle of getting me and my brother up for church, she would make sure to watch on TV. I was the “pleaser child” so I would often meet her halfway and watch the preacher in my PJs. We floundered around various churches until I was in 4th grade, but one winter Sunday of that year we finally found a church home. I’m not sure when we knew it was “our church” but that’s what it quickly became. The awkwardness of first introductions and singing unfamiliar songs soon gave way to friendships and me singing joyfully to the Lord, even though I never could figure out my part in the hymn book. For the next 17 years, I attended that church and eventually joined the staff. Both my brother and I married our wives in that church, and I even saw my mother and father re-marry there after my father came to know Jesus as his Savior. My church loved us with the love of God and it changed our lives. As I write this their faces stream across my mind’s eye. Mr. Sam who would take us to fix up the homes of the poor. Mr. David, a man’s man who sold tractors for a living, but who I saw cry before the Lord. I didn’t know that was allowed. Mrs. Pam who hosted a Wednesday morning Bible study for a group of us obnoxious and rowdy highschoolers. (The monkey bread she made each week is probably the one thing I would wish for if I was on a deserted island.) Laslie, a cow farmer, taught me wisdom when I was first married as we baled hay together and worked on my old truck. The roll of people from that church who have blessed my life, and from churches I’ve attended since, could stretch for miles. And the love and relationships continue on as do the blessings of living in Christian community. I do love the church, and most especially Jesus the Savior who is the head of the church. It’s His love that flows down to those He’s saved and out from them to each other. That’s why the church is such a special place. God’s love is on full display. I wanted to share a little bit of my story so that you might want to have a “my church” too. A place where you will be loved and built up in Christ. A community where you can be known and accepted because God’s grace is the stream that flows through every one of our broken hearts. I’m so glad we stopped floundering around and made a deep connection with a church. The joy I’ve experienced in life has been 1000x more because of my connection with a “my church”. This issue has your “my church” listed somewhere. Don’t wait. God wants to lead you there. Ask Him, in prayer, to point you in that direction and begin visiting this week. Maybe you’ll get lucky and it’ll be potluck Sunday! I’m praying for you as you go.

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 2017 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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CCH Magazine Ad_River Region.qxp_Layout 1 5/17/17 11:08 AM Page 1

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!

Sunday Worship: 9:30 a.m. Christian Education: 11:00 a.m. on Sundays and 6 p.m. on Wednesdays

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.

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

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Pastor’s Perspective

Daniel Atkins, Taylor Road Baptist Church

Teaching Our Children to Stand for Truth It’s summertime and one of the most popular things to do, especially in our state, is take a family vacation to the beach. As I write this article, the threat of a tropical storm is looming in the Gulf of Mexico and, as you probably know, that makes the surf even more dangerous than usual. One of the deadliest things about the ocean is not the sharks or the wildlife, it is actually the undertow. It is the rip current that lies behind the surface which will, if you do not have solid footing, suck you under the waves and drag you out to sea. Growing up in church, one of my favorite Bible stories was the story of Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego. These four young men were plucked out of their homeland by the invading king of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar, and deported back to Babylon to enter into

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the service of the king. Probably the biggest lesson we can learn from the lives of these four young men is that it is not easy to stand firm in a culture that is opposed to your beliefs. There really is not much difference between ancient Babylon and 21st century America. And, honestly, it is just as hard to stand for truth today as it was then. Take a few moments and read Daniel chapter one…go ahead! Now, I want you to pay close attention to how systematically Nebuchadnezzar conquered his enemy. He did not want to kill the young men. That would not have proven anything. That would not be flexing the muscles of his power. What did he do then? Rather than killing them, Nebuchadnezzar’s intention was to rewire them. Take a look back at the text! First, Nebuchadnezzar raided the temple, stole the vessels of worship, and took them back to the temple of his god. In other words, the first step in breaking down each of these young men was convincing them that their God – the one true God, YHWH – was dead and powerless before him. Second, Nebuchadnezzar changed their education. These young men had been taught the Old Testament books of the Law and had, from the earliest age, been trained in the ways of obedience to God. Now, they were being inundated with Babylonian mythological pagan literature. Next, he changed their language. Rather than speaking Hebrew, the language of God’s people, they were taught to speak the language

of the Chaldeans. Fourth, Nebuchadnezzar changed their diet. They were raised to obey the dietary laws of the Old Testament and to pursue holiness in what they ate. Now, they are given the king’s food which was completely against their dietary laws and which had already been dedicated to the false gods. Fifth, and finally, Nebuchadnezzar changed their names. Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were all Hebrew names that gave glory to the one true God. Belteshazzar, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego were all names that gave glory and honor to the false gods of Babylon. Isn’t this exactly what our culture tries to do to us? Parents, isn’t this what our culture is trying to do to our children? The world doesn’t want to kill our children...it wants to rewire our children. It wants to convince our kids that our God is dead, powerless, just one among many. The world is trying to change our children’s belief system, persuade them that there is no absolute morality, and tell them that their lives are meant to be lived in pursuit of pleasure and whatever makes them “happy.” So, what are we to do? Well, look at verse eight. It says, “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself…” Daniel and his three friends made a conscious and determined decision that they would stand firm on the truths of God’s Word and their faithfulness to Him. This was an intentional act of the will. It’s because of this decision, from the very beginning, that Daniel was able to stand boldly in the den of lions and his friends were able to stand boldly in the furnace of fire. We must be teaching our children by our example and by our words. We must let them know that bowing to the world is much easier than standing firm, but one leads to death and the other leads to life. Digging in, purposing in our hearts, is literally burying our feet in the sand so that when the undertow comes, we won’t be swept away by the world and the things of it. Daniel Atkins his senior pastor of Taylor Road Baptist Church in Montgomery.

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

You know the rule with Iain Murray’s books, right? If he writes it, you read it! You can simply never go wrong. The rule proves itself true once again with his newest work, Seven Leaders. The thirteenth chapter of Hebrews exhorts us, “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.” This book is designed to help us meet, understand, and remember seven leaders, seven pastors who faithfully served their God. Several of them may be familiar to most readers: Andrew Bonar, Archibald Brown, Martyn Lloyd-Jones, and John MacArthur; several may be familiar to only a few: John Elias, Kenneth MacRae, and W.J. Grier. Yet whether they labored in the public eye or in obscurity, each of them has valuable lessons to teach us. The format of the book is simple and effective. Each of the seven men gets his own chapter. It contains a brief account of his life and ministry and a number of lessons we can draw from it. From John Elias we learn about the nature of true revival, from Andrew Bonar we learn of the importance of maintaining and deepening our fellowship with Jesus Christ, and from Archibald Brown we learn of the centrality of the gospel in all faithful preaching. Kenneth MacRae teaches us that effective River Region’s Journey

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preaching depends upon effective ministry within the local church, Martyn Lloyd-Jones shows that all ministry must be undergirded by sound doctrine, and W.J. Grier teaches us the peril of frittering life away and the importance of faithfully passing on the “sacred deposit” of the gospel. Finally, in the life and ministry of John MacArthur, we see the importance of a strong doctrine of Scripture to support a powerful preaching ministry. Because Murray’s knowledge of church history is both deep and wide, he is able to set these men in their context and provide interesting glimpses of what was happening in the wider world and in the Christian world while these men carried out their ministries. And, because he knew several of them and has written biographies of three of them, he is able to give personal touches and details that help bring them to life. Seven Leaders is exactly the kind of book we’ve come to expect from Iain Murray. While its primary audience is pastors and church leaders, there isn’t a Christian alive who wouldn’t benefit from reading it.

How Does Sanctification Work? by David Powlison

Some great books hit your life like a sledgehammer. They wreck your preconceptions and disrupt what you were sure you knew. We need these books from time to time. Other books come like a cool drink of water on a hot afternoon. They reaffirm what you thought you knew, and shore up your pre-existing convictions. We need these ones, too. David Powlison’s new book was decidedly in the second group for me. Sanctification is a topic that has received a lot of attention over the past few years. We have grown accustomed 6

to hearing of the centrality of the gospel in sanctification. And, of course, it is exactly the case that the gospel goes far beyond our justification, and is, indeed, essential to our sanctification. Yet, as is so often the case, people may have taken this a bit too far. Suddenly the cure for every ill was “look to the gospel” or “be gospel-centered.” Some went so far as to promote a kind of “hypergrace” that insists sanctification can be had in no other way than meditating upon the gospel and applying its promises. It said something like, “You are sanctified by remembering and believing afresh that you are justified by what Jesus did on the cross for you.” Everything else was given the ugly label of “legalism.” And it is in just this context that Powlison prepared his book. What Powlison wants and promotes is a well-balanced understanding of sanctification that accounts for the many and varied means God uses to make his people holy. Faith in the gospel is the foundation for all sanctification and meditation upon the gospel is one means of gaining it. But it is not the only one. Rather, God has given us many and varied means and different ones will apply to different people at different times in their lives. The means God uses for me today, may be very different from what he uses for you tomorrow. This emphasis makes How Does Sanctification Work? a book perfectly suited to this point in church history. It addresses and resolves one of the key points of confusion in the church today. Yet its principles are timeless, making it a book well-suited to any other point in church history. I enthusiastically recommend it.

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Motion Conference for Students July 27-29, BJCC Legacy Arena 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N Birmingham The Motion Student Conference is a catalyst weekend for students to be empowered by Jesus to put their faith into motion and be inspired, encouraged, and equipped to start the school year strong for Jesus. Guest speakers include: Steven Furtick, Christine Caine, Rich & Dawncheré Wilkerson, Mark Pettus, Chris Hodges and more. Worship will be lead by Hillsong United, Lecrae, Passion Band, Elevation Worship and Highlands Worship.

Evening of Worship with Travis Cottrell Thursday, August 3, at 6:00 pm Doors at 5:00 pm First Baptist Church of Opelika 301 South 8th Street, Opelika, AL Embracing the rich traditional hymns of his childhood, along with modern music of today, Travis uses a blended style of worship to help lead people from all generations and backgrounds into worship. His ministry is fueled by his desire to see this generation of the body of Christ come together for a place of unity in worship…using all of what God has ordained for His praise. And truth be told, there’s nothing that would make Travis happier than if you left an event where he led worship and couldn’t remember his name. Because more than anything, Travis longs for people to know, love and worship the Maker and Lover of our souls. That’s his passion, and ministering to God’s people is his great privilege

2600 Bell Road Montgomery, Alabama 334.277.6690

460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, Alabama 334.358.6411

Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen River Region’s Journey

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Aldersgate UMC Welcomes New Minister of Discipleship Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Montgomery is welcoming a new minister of discipleship, the Rev. Richard Williams, who has been a pastor in the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Georgia for more than seven years. Williams switched denominations and got assigned to Aldersgate by Bishop David Graves of the Alabama-West Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church. Williams will be introduced to Aldersgate’s congregation on Sunday, June 25. “Aldersgate UMC is a church that has a heart of service. In today’s society, we must make bold witness for the kingdom of God,” Williams said. As the minister of discipleship at Aldersgate, Williams’ duties will include leading the church’s contemporary service at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays. “Rev. Richard Williams brings incredible gifts for Aldersgate and the city of Montgomery. His great ability as a bridge builder, communicator and strategic planner will be a blessing for our entire community,” Dr. Brian Miller, Aldersgate’s senior minister, said. Williams grew up in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. He received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Morehouse College in Atlanta in 2012 and his master’s degree in divinity from the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta in 2015. He became a pastor in the A.M.E. denomination in December 2009 and most recently served as senior pastor of St. Mark A.M.E. Church in Thomasville, Georgia.

Tim Hawkins at MPAC Saturday, July 15, at 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Since giving up his job as a grocery truck driver in 2002, Tim Hawkins has been establishing himself as one of the most in-demand comedians in the country. The perils of marriage, homeschooling, and growing up in the Midwest make for really good punchlines. Tickets begin at $16 and are on sale at the MPAC box office, online at Ticketmaster. com or by phone at 800-745-3000.

Email your community or ministry news to deanne@ readjourneymagazine.com!

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forgive in relationships, there is no long term hope. Keeping score and being vindictive is exhausting. RRJ: You mentioned that your childhood church experienced a split. In what ways did this feel like a divorce and how did you deal with it?

RRJ: Growing up, you attended church with your grandparents and mom and were baptized at age 12. Was this when you realized your need for Jesus’ offer of salvation? Brad: No, my baptism felt very ceremonial, like it was a graduation event for taking the baptism class at church. It wasn’t until Young Life camp at Windy Gap, North Carolina that I realized Jesus could truly change my life. I realized that His path to eternal life was a better choice, my peer group was healthier, and just the experience of His grace was indescribable. RRJ: You mentioned that you were a child of divorce. How has that affected you and your wife’s relationship and how has it helped you in raising your children? Brad: From the moment Grace Ann and I married, we both came into the marriage with an attitude of “divorce is not an option”. We took our vows very seriously and knew this was a life-long commitment. We show love and affection openly towards each other in front of our kids. We try to have a sense of humor and forgive and forget. If you can’t River Region’s Journey

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Brad: Yes, there was a parental divorce followed by a church divorce. I’m not sure how I dealt with it. I was very young, but it is amazing how much I remember about both events. I guess I dealt with it by pouring myself into my friends, playing music and athletics. My friends were very important to me. I spent a lot of time at friends’ houses and a lot of time in my room playing guitar. Football at Robert E. Lee High School from 1983-1985 was very important to me. The circle of friends I had in the sport was epic; black and white friends that I would fight for...brothers. Sports is one of the most unifying activities for the world. It truly brings people together, no matter what color or creed. I also experienced the same thing following high school in U.S. Army basic training, and the following seven years in the Army Reserves. RRJ: In what ways are you able to shine your light for Christ at your work place? Brad: I find that to be harder than I thought. It’s easy for your faith to show with other believers at work, but most people at work (over the years) seem to be more focused on work and climbing the mountain of success than bothering to develop deep relationships. I will say this, anytime I share a meal with someone (a colleague or a client) I look for the opportunity to pray before we eat. I have never felt a bad vibe for saying a prayer. I know God can use it for His glory. RRJ: What do you feel is the most important thing in sharing your faith with others, especially non-believers? Brad: How God’s promises can transform your life. When you have a personal relationship with Him (prayer) and learn to trust in Him, it can be the greatest stress reliever. RRJ: What is the meaning of life? 10

Brad: Many people are completely stumped by this question and their own answers can be very troubling to themselves. As Christians it is a very easy answer - “To Glorify Jesus”. We all have talents, gifts and time… let’s use them to glorify Him. RRJ: God gives us all gifts/talents. One of the talents He’s given you is music. How have you used that gift for His glory? Brad: I started playing when I was 14 years old. I played in bands in high school and in college...even recorded a little music. But I had no idea it would lead to playing in church; a way to glorify Jesus. After my wife and I joined Saint James United Methodist Church in 1999 a friend and client of mine, NeNe Baker, stayed after me for a couple of years to play guitar at church. At first, I wasn’t interested because contemporary music at church was still in its infancy and the music did not resonate with me (only the traditional hymns). But her persistence paid off and I am so grateful. Today’s contemporary worship songs are incredible! The lyrics, melodies, rhythms and song structures rival anything ever written in music, in my opinion. It is a strong genre. I have had the privilege of playing in church, at festivals, prayer events, funerals, weddings and even on an incredible mission trip to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2007 (see YouTube “SJ Life Band” or link https:// youtube/a9DlVU9TEho). We played area church worship services, and the pinnacle event was a youth music festival playing in front of about 25,000 Brazilian teenagers. I still get goose bumps thinking about it. RRJ: What advice do you have for living consistently for God? Brad: Join a church, and then join a small group. We were not made to be loners. You will find strength is a small group and people who love you and want to support you. Then find a place to serve in church. Figure out what your gifts are and how they fit into the church structure. The power of community with God’s people is amazing. The Church is the bride of Christ and the hope of the world. So choose to be a part of hope.

Brad Armagost is married to Grace Ann and they have two sons, Cole (14) and Chandler (17). The family lives in Montgomery.

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CHILDREN & YOUTH MINISTRIES In a day and time where culture tries to dictate who our children will be, sjKids is a ministry where your child can discover and develop the calling and purpose that God has for their lives! As a parent, you have been given the opportunity to position your child in a safe and loving environment where they will be a part of a creative, high energy, worship experience where the word of God is alive! At Saint James, you will discover a place where you can connect with God, grow in your faith, and serve the world around you. No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, we invite you and your family to come as you are! Visit us at sjlife.com

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9045 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery, AL 36117 | (334) 277-3037 | 11

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Can We So Love the World? In 1954, when I was five years old, I had a friend about my age who lived nearby. Let’s call him Johnny. Nearby was about a quarter of a mile away on a dirt road in Macon County, Alabama. For months, Johnny and I had a good time playing with marbles, blocks, and little plastic trucks in the sand. Then something terrible happened. I had a birthday. Dad explained to me that I was sixyears-old now and old enough to go to school. Johnny and I could no longer play together. I couldn’t go to his house or he to mine. Dad said white boys and black boys did not go to school together. He said our friendship had to end. When I asked why, he

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said that was just the way it was and no one could do anything about it. I was very sad for a long time. Years went by and our country realized that something could be done about it, but Johnny and I had become adults by then and did not know each other anymore. Now before you judge my dad as unnecessarily harsh in his view of his neighbors, consider the times in which he lived. Now consider the times in which we live. Because, we are doing the same thing all over again. What if Johnny had been named Hussein and his parents had been from Pakistan? In reaction to our very real fear of terrorists, we American Christians are walling ourselves off from neighbors who need to know the Lord we worship. The overwhelming majority have nothing to do with the jihadists. In fact, many Muslims are seeking asylum from the very terrorists we fear. Members of other religions are becoming more and more part of our everyday life. Jews, Muslims, Hindus, atheists, and others are our students, doctors, professors, lawyers, hotel clerks, and servers. They are our neighbors, whether we choose to admit it or not. So, what would Jesus do? Over the years I have come to realize that, since Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, we need to show kindness and respect 12

to those who have not yet come to this truth. Christ is seeking all mankind, and so should we. Jesus said not only “Love your neighbor as yourself,’ but also: “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you,” (Luke 6:27 NIV). As Christians, these words are convicting. Many times, when faced with people of other beliefs, we act out of fear and anxiety, not love and kindness. When we see someone shopping in Arab dress or with a beard and olive skin, do we look away? Do we glance back at the person with suspicion? The Apostle John said: “God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God is in him. In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear…” (I John 4:16-18 NIV). I grew up in the segregated South. I remember when walls of fear, suspicion, and disrespect separated people with different skin color in our state. As time has gone by, most of those walls have come down. It is now time to realize that we are doing the same thing to people who worship differently than we do or come from a country we distrust. Much of the racial strife during the Civil Rights Era was caused by fear-based hysteria. We would do well to learn from that time. Remember Paul’s words to Timothy when he said, “God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control,” (2 Timothy 1:7 ESV). Years ago, I asked a former-Muslim Christian how Christians could point Muslims to Christ. He replied, “Show them love. They have never seen it.” “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son…” (John 3:16 NIV). Through the Holy Spirit can’t we so love the world? **Sam Whatley’s latest book, Ponder Anew, is now available at the Frazer Bookstore located inside Frazer Memorial UMC.

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THE LOCAL CHURCH: BY SCOTT SAULS

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There is a trend, especially among younger generations, of people who are saying goodbye to the local church. We’ve heard statistics of those who leave because they no longer believe. But, surprisingly, others leave because they say they want more of God in their lives and the church just isn’t doing it for them.

I’d say half of the most impactful people I know, who love Jesus and tear up at the mention of His name, who reach out to the poor and lonely and are fundamentally sound in their theology, who create institutions that feed hundreds of thousands, do not attend a traditional church service. Many of them even speak at churches, but they have no home church and don’t long for one. Why are so many believers dissatisfied with the church? Often, their disenchantment with the church is justified. Instead of going to church, they are eager to be the church. Instead of being a face in the crowd, they are eager to be a known and needed member of a community. Instead of being passive observers of an event, they are eager to be active contributors to a shared mission. Instead of listening to a preacher pontificate and tell stories, they are eager to be welcomed into a Story that is bigger than the preacher. Instead of being around people who “accept” Jesus but who seem bored with him, they want to be around people who come alive at the mention of his name. Where the local church is not fulfilling this vision, the temptation to “look for God elsewhere” is understandable. But is it the best solution? Most importantly, would Jesus, the Bridegroom and Head of the church, favor a churchless Christianity?

Looking for God Elsewhere Several influential Christians are among this group, including Donald Miller, author of Blue Like Jazz and other books that speak meaningfully to younger believers. In 2014, Miller shared candidly on his blog that he did not attend church very often because he connected more with God in other ways, like through nature and through his work. In a follow-up blog post, he added: River Region’s Journey

July 2017

Romanticizing the Early Church

Many who are disillusioned with the church today romanticize the early church, not realizing how broken things were then 14

as well. Take Corinth, for example. As the most prominently represented church in Paul’s letters, Corinth was also a dysfunctional mess. Factions, harshness, divisions, adultery, lawsuits, divorce, elitism, classism, and neglect of the poor were just some of their issues. The famous “love chapter” in 1 Corinthians 13 was written less as inspiration and more as a rebuke, because each love attribute was something that the Corinthians were not. They had trampled on the ideal of what Jesus’ church should be—an infectious community of prayer, truth, love, justice, and mission (Acts 2:42-47). But Paul never gave up on Corinth. Instead of walking away, he pressed in. As he sharply corrected them, he also encouraged, affirmed, loved, prayed for, and thanked God for them. Like Jesus, he saw a broken church and envisioned beauty. He saw a sinful church and envisioned sainthood. He saw a band of misfits but envisioned a radiant, perfected bride. And he knew that God wanted him to participate in loving this church to life.

Wisdom...Ours or God’s?

At her best and at her worst, Jesus loves his church. He will build his church and nothing will prevail against her (Matthew 16:18). He laid down his life for her (John

10:11). He will never leave or forsake her (Hebrews 13:5). He will complete the work he started in her (Philippians 1:6). In other words, Jesus knows nothing about having more of God by having less of the church. To the contrary, Jesus is married to the church. The church is his chosen, beloved Wife. What does it say about us if the church is good enough for the Father to adopt, for the Spirit to inhabit, and for Jesus to marry... but not good enough for us to join? In Life Together, Dietrich Bonhoeffer said that those who love their dream of Christian community more than the Christian community itself become destroyers of Christian community. He also said that the church, which may at times seem weak and trifling to us, is great and magnificent to God. Do we believe this? When tempted to hit eject on the local church, will we trust the infinite, perfect wisdom of God or our own finite, fallen instincts? The wisdom of God says that we need the local church. This is both declared and assumed throughout the Scriptures, which don’t define the church as a free-flowing, self-directed spiritual experience, but as an organized, rooted, local expression of the body of Christ. Within this structure, things like oversight and care from ordained officers (pastors, elders, deacons), participation in the sacraments of baptism and the

Lord’s supper, weekly Lord’s Day gatherings with Scripture, preaching, singing and prayers, one-anothering and generosity practices, spiritual gift deployment empowering members to serve the body, evangelism, and neighbor love through deeds of mercy and justice, are assumed.

Jesus’ Bride...Also Our Mother

Tony Campolo said, “...you dare not decide that you don’t need the church. Christ’s church is his bride...and his love for her makes him faithful to her even when she is not faithful to him.” The church was God’s idea, God’s plan for His Kingdom on earth. As St. Cyprian said, “One cannot have God as his Father who does not have the church as his Mother,” and as Saint Augustine once said, “The church may be a whore, but she is still my mother.”

A Family, Not a Club

Family is the chief metaphor the Bible uses when it talks about the church. The church isn’t an exclusive, monolithic club. It’s a gathering of wonderfully and sometimes irritatingly diverse, divinely-selected brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, grandmas and grandpas. A dysfunctional family at times indeed, but a family nonetheless.

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July 2017

River Region’s Journey

Part of the Christian experience is learning to love people who are not like us. In the church, we are given a community of complicated, beloved-byGod, always in process, fearfully and wonderfully made, sometimes faltering and inefficient people we are called to love. Including ourselves. Family stays together. When one member is weak, the others lift her up. When another is difficult, the others confront him. When another is leading on mission, the others join, support, pray, and cheer her on.

Strength in Diversity

By design, God chose the church to be as diverse as possible. At Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, we have described our community this way:

We are builders and baby boomers, gen-xers and millennials, locals and internationals, conservatives and progressives, educators and athletes, struggling doubters and committed believers, engineers and artists, introverts and extroverts, healers and addicts, CEO’s and homemakers, affluent and bankrupt, single and married, happy and hurting, lonely and connected, stressed-out and carefree, private and public schoolers, PhD’s and people with special needs, ex-

perts and students, saints and sinners.

This isn’t merely a written description. It is an actual representation of our local church body. It is sometimes messy. In its messiness, it is always awesome. We want to celebrate and learn from differences instead of dividing over them. We believe the best expressions of community happen when people come together with varying perspectives, personalities, cultures, and experiences.

A School for Learning to Love Part of the Christian experience is learning to love people who are not like us. In the church, we are given a community of complicated, beloved-by-God, always in process, fearfully and wonderfully made, sometimes faltering and inefficient people we are called to love. Including ourselves. Reconciliation, peacemaking, relational perseverance, and loving the unlovely are difficult but necessary steps of discipleship. Without these things, we remain stunted in our spiritual growth. Our goal in Christian community is not just tolerance of others, but authentic love and relationship. In order

to learn to truly love, we must stay in the Christian community and do the hard work of resolving conflict, redeeming differences, and building unity.

The Church Needs You... and You Need Her

As it is a family, the church is also a body. Without you, the church is missing an eye or an ear or a hand. Without you, the church is not whole. Each of us is made in the image of God. As we live in community with one another, we grow in knowledge and experience of God by being with others who bear his image. As we learn from and rub off on one another we become better, more whole, more Christ-like, and ultimately better-forthe-world versions of ourselves. If you are dissatisfied or disillusioned with the local church, don’t leave it. If the church stinks to you, then change its diapers. Make it better. Pray for it. Bless it. Serve it. Love it to life. In the process, you may discover that it’s not only that the local church needs you. You may also discover that you need the local church as well. Scott Sauls Scott serves as the Senior Minister of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee, where he lives with his wife Patti and two daughters, Abby and Ellie. This article is adapted from Jesus Outside the Lines: A Way Forward for Those Who are Tired of Taking Sides.

River Region’s Journey

July 2017

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Evangel Church 3974 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Theme: Gadgets and Gizmos When: July 24-26, 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Ages: 3 to upcoming 6th graders Call 272.4882 ext. 107. First Christian Church 1705 Taylor Road, Montgomery Theme: Rome When: July 25-28; Time: TBA Light dinner and snack provided Ages 4 years old – 6 grade Please call 270.1320 or visit www.fccmontgomery.org.

Frazer Memorial UMC

ad on Inside Front Cover 6000 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery Theme: Galactic Starveyors When: July 10-14; 9 a.m. to 12

noon, Atlanta Hwy Campus and July 17-21 at our Pike Road Campus. Ages: Rising K4 year oldsFinishing 5th grade. Call 272.8622. Grace Pointe & Inner City Churches 1565 Ray Thorington Road, Montgomery Theme: Mega Sports Camp When: July 16-19 from 6-8 pm Ages: 4-12 years Visit www. grace-pointe. com to register or call 271.2525. Hayneville Baptist Church 1180 State Hwy 21 N,

Hayneville Theme: Galactic Starveyors When: July 16-20, 5:45 until 8:30 p.m. Ages: K4 - 6th Grade (grade completed) Email: hbc@connecthbc.com or (334) 548.2620. Millbrook Presbyterian (PCA) 3480 Main Street, Millbrook Theme: Operation Arctic When: July 10-14; 6-8:45 pm Ages: Entering K-4 thru 5th grade For registration, call 285-4031. Taylor Road Baptist Church 1685 Taylor Road, Montgomery Theme: Galactic Starveyors When: July 17-21, 8:30 a.m. to Noon Ages: Completion of Kindergarten through 6th grade. Call 271.3363.

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July 2017

River Region’s Journey

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36043-Pintlala Pintlala Baptist Church 73 Federal Road, (334) 281.9439 Email: info@pintlalabaptist.com Web: www.pintlalabaptistchurch.com DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Gary Burton WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Children, Youth, Youth & Adult Choirs

36054-Millbrook Central Bible Chapel 3270 Main Street, (334) 285.6524 Website: www.centralbiblechapel.com Email: link on website or centralbiblechapel@gmail.com DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Scott Leach WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wed. at 7 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Sunday School, Outreach, Men and Women’s Bible studies, Children’s. Destiny Church 2410 Wall Street, (334) 230.5444 Web: www.destinychurch.al DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Interim WT: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 850-1000 MIN: Small Groups, Youth, Meals for Homeless, Reach, Children, and College Goodship Missionary Baptist Church 1554 AL Hwy 143, (334) 285.0094 Web: www.goodship.org Pastor: Derwin Perry DN: Baptist WT: Sunday, 10:45 a.m.; Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Sunday School, Youth, Women’s and Men’s Ministry, Choir, Bible Study Grace Community Church 3515 Highway 14, (334) 285.4655 Email: gracecommunityonline@gmail.com Web: www.gracemillbrook.com Pastor: Albert Russell WT: Sunday, 10:15 a.m.; Wednesday, 6:15 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Sunday school, Youth, Bible Study, Discipleship, Mens, Womens, Missions, Faith Training Journey Church 435 Shiela Blvd, Prattville, (334) 351.9994 Web: DN: Non-denominational

River Region’s Journey

July 2017

Pastor: Mike Mozingo WT: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 10:45 WS: Contemporary AT: 400-800 MIN: Small Groups, Childrens, Youth, Missions and Outreach Millbrook Baptist Church 3431 Browns Road, (334) 285.4731 Web: www.millbrookbaptist.com DN: Baptist Pastor: Mike Ingram WT: Sunday, 10:45 a.m., 6 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Youth, Seniors, Childrens, Music, Womens, Mens, Daycare Millbrook First United Methodist Church 3350 Edgewood Rd, (334) 285.4114 Website: www.mfumc.org DN: Methodist Pastor: Rev. Jerry May WT Sunday 8:10, 9:15 & 10:45 WS: Traditional and Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Children, Men, Women, Youth, College, Grief Support, Divorce Care, Financial Peace, Bible Studies Millbrook Presbyterian Church 3480 Main Street, (334) 285.4031 Email: mpcaoffice@gmail.com Web: www.millbrookpca.com DN: Presbyterian (PCA) Pastor: Rev. Brannon T. Bowman WT: Sunday, 10:15 a.m., 5:30 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Youth/Children, Womens, Seniors, Mens, Fellowship Groups, VBS, Mission Trips New Life Church of Millbrook 4230 Millbrook, Hwy 14, (334) 285.6996 Web: www.nlmillbrook.com DN: Non-Denominational Pastor: T. Alan Cova WT: Sunday, 10:00 a.m. and Wed. at 7 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Childrens, Youth, Young couples, Womens, Mens, Seniors, New Life Christian Academy

Victory Baptist Church

ad on page 7 5481 Main Street, (334) 285.5082 Email: info@victorymillbrook.com Website: www.victorymillbrook.com DN: Independent Baptist Pastor: Joey Byrd WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wednesday, 7 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Juvenile, Jail, Children’s Church, Junior Church, Nursing Home Ministry

36052-Mathews Elizabeth Missionary Baptist Church 15617 Troy Hwy, Mathews, (334) 584.7957 Email: ebc231@yahoo.com DN: Baptist Pastor: C. L Thomas Sr. WT: Sunday School, 8 a.m. and Worship at 9 a.m.; Wednesday Bible study, 6:30 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: under 150 MIN: Deacon, Deaconess, Ushers, Praise Dancers, Missions, Pastor Aide, Couples Ministry, G.A.P. Ministry, Transportation Ministry, Community Outreach, Youth Ministry, Choirs

36064-Pike Road Antioch Missionary Baptist Church 738 Gibbs Road, (334) 215-3596 Email: antioch@antiochmtmeigs.com Web: antiochmtmeigs.com & Facebook Pastor: Richard E. Griffin DN: Baptist WT: Sunday 9:30am (Sunday School), 11am (Worship) WS: Traditional MIN: Nursery, Youth, Men’s, Mission, Prison, Drama, Choir, Audiovisual/Multimedia

Centerpoint Fellowship

ad on page 25 Off-Center Video site at 1445 Wilson Park Drive (Pike Road Jim Wilson YMCA), (334) 356-3076 Email: dawn@centeringlives.com Web: www.centeringlives.com DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Matt Bostic WT: Sunday, 9:30 and 11:00 WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Children Ministry, Youth, College, Missions and Small Groups at main campus East Lake Community Church 1 Chapel Hill Street, Pike Road (Chapel at The Waters) (334) 799-7424 Facebook: East Lake Community Church at the Waters Email: Eastlakechad@yahoo.com DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Chad Harrison WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m. WS: Contemporary; Blend AT: under 150 MIN: Home groups, Childrens (Family ministry), Singles, Local community ministries, Youth Group First Presbyterian Church 9299 Vaughn Road, (334) 279.1372 Email:1st.pca@gmail.com Web: www.firstpreschantilly.com DN: Presbyterian Church in America Pastor: Reed De Pace WT: Sunday, 9:25 worship

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DN: Denomination WT: Worship Times WS: Worship Style(s) AT: Attendance OL: Other Languages MIN: Ministries Offered WS: Blended AT: Under 150 MIN: Support Groups, Bible Studies (all ages), Childrens, Youth, Seniors, Mens, Womens, Family

Frazer Pike Road

ad on Inside Front Cover Located in Pike Road School, (334) 272.8622 Email: info@frazerumc.org Web: www.frazerumc.org DN: United Methodist Pastor: Dr. Patrick Quinn WT: Sunday, 9 and 10:30 a.m. WS: Multiple Styles Offered AT: Over 1500 MIN: Frazer Kids, Students, Small Groups, Serve, Missions and VBS Pike Road Baptist Church 4790 Pike Road, (334) 272.7690 Email: pikeroad@aol.com Web: www.pikeroadchurch.org DN: Baptist WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m., Wednesday 5:30 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: Under 150 MIN: Childrens ministry, Youth and Missions Woodland United Methodist Church 4428 Wallahatchie Road, (334) 272.7230 Website: www.woodlandontheweb.org Email: office@woodlandontheweb.org DN: United Methodist Pastor: Rev. Tim Meadows WT: Sunday, 8:00 a.m., 9:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Seniors, Discipleship, Childrens, Youth, Music

36066, 36067-Prattville Centerpoint Fellowship

ad on page 25 2500 Legends Circle (Marriot Legends Capitol Hill Conference Center), (334) 356.3076 Email: dawn@centeringlives.com Web: www.centeringlives.com DN: Non-denominational Pastor: John Schmidt WT: Sunday, 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 1200-1500 MIN: Children, Youth, College, Missions and Small Groups

Centerpoint Fellowship

ad on page 25 White Water Camp, 2274 Why 82 W, (334) 430.9646 Email: Will@centeringlives.com Web: www.centeringlives.com Facebook: CENTERPOINT Prattville Westside DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Will Barrett WT: Sunday, 10 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Children, Youth, College, Missions and Small Groups Camellia Baptist Church 201 Woodvale Road, (334) 365.0231 Email: info@camelliabaptist.com Web: www.camelliabaptist.com DN: Baptist Pastor: Reverend Mark Stokes WT: Sunday, 10 a.m., 5:45 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: AWANA, Childrens, Youth, Singles, Womens, Mens, Missions, Music, Upward

East Memorial Baptist Church

ad on page 13 1320 Old Ridge Rd, (334) 365.7500 Email: beasley@eastmemorial.org Web: www.eastmemorial.org DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Glenn Graham, Jr. WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m.; Wed. night at 6:20 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 700-900 MIN: Student, College & Career, Singles, Childrens, AWANA, Seniors, Womens, Mens Evangel Church 322 Old Farm Lane N, located in Prattville Christian Academy, (334) 272.4882 Web: http:evangelchurch.me DN: Assembly of God Pastor: Michael Rippy WT: Sunday, 10 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Sunday school, Children, Students, College, Growth Track, Life Groups, Dream Team

First Baptist Church

ad on page 16 138 S. Washington Street, (334) 365.0606 Email: mail@fbcprattville.org Web: www.fbcprattville.org DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Dr. Travis Coleman, Jr. WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 800-1200 MIN: Childrens, Youth, Mens, Womens, Mission Friends, Choir (all ages), Moms Day Out, Kindergarten, Adult Discipleship, Moms LIFE First Presbyterian Church 211 S. Chestnut Street, (334) 365.6387 Email: vicki@fpcministries.org Web: www.fpcministries.org DN: First Presbyterian Church of America Pastor: Bryant Hansen Assistant Pastor: Allan Bledsoe WT: Sunday, 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Youth, Community, Womens, Mens First United Methodist Church 100 E. Fourth Street, (334) 365.5977 Web: www.prattvillemethodist.org DN: United Methodist Pastor: Rev. Bobby Ellisor WT: Sunday, 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 400-800 MIN: Childrens, Youth, Singles, Older Adults, Support Groups, Mom’s Day Out, Preschool Fountain City Baptist Church 492 East Main Street, (334) 365.2034 Email: link on website Web: www.fountaincitybaptist.com DN: Baptist Pastor: Rick Moore WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m., 5 p.m.; Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Sunday school, Childrens, Teen, Older Adult, AWANA, Music (adults and youth), Mens, Womens, Missions and Outreach Fountain of Grace 881 McQueen Smith Road, S., (334) 365.5511 Email: info@fountainofgraceac.us Web: www.fountainofgrace.us

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River Region’s Journey

DN: Christian Missionary Alliance Pastor: Tony Butler WT: Sunday, 10:40 a.m., 6 p.m. WS: Blended AT: Under 150-400 MIN: Youth, Sunday school, Women of Grace, Music, Sound, AWANA (during school year) Grace Life Church 972 McQueen Smith Road (services being held in Prattville YMCA), (334) 365.8672 Email: Links on website Web: www.churchgonewild.tv DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Phil Bevilacqua WT: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Youth, Kids, Small Groups, Women and Men Glynwood Baptist Church 376 N. McQueen Smith Road, (334) 361.9180 Email: glynwoodbc@knology.net Web: www.glynwoodbc.com DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Reverend Bruce Hose WT: Sunday, 10:15 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 400-800 MIN: Childrens, Youth, Music, Prayer, Seniors, Mom’s Day Out, Bible Study and prayer Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. Heritage Baptist Church 1357 S. Memorial Drive, (334) 365.2372 Email: office@hbcprattville.org Web: www.hbcprattville.org DN: Baptist Pastor: Roger D. Parks WT: Sunday 8:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: AWANA, Youth, VBS, Childrens Church, Adult, Music and Missions Trips Hunter Hills Church of Christ 330 Old Farm Lane, N., (334) 285.2700 Web: www.hunterhills.org DN: Church of Christ Pastor: Ryan Lassiter WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Childrens, Youth, Singles, Support Groups, Leisure, Small Groups

Messiah Church

ad on page 15 2072 Fairview Ave., (334) 730.4300 Web: www.mymessiahchurch.org Facebook: Messiah Church DN: Lutheran Pastor: Doug Davis WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: under 150 MIN: Childrens, Youth, Men, Women’s, Life Groups, Local Missions

River Region’s Journey

July 2017

Voice of Victory Church (10 min. from Prattville) 449 County RD 165, Autaugville, (334) 365.2031 Web: www.vovc.org DN: Word of Faith Pastor: Sandra Gober Associate Pastor: Caleb Gober WT: Sunday 10:30 a.m and Wed., 7 p.m. AT: under 150 WS: Contemporary MIN: Prison, Youth, Children’s, Adult, Senior, Young Professionals and Invasion Evangelism

36092-Wetumpka

Blue Ridge Baptist Church 4471 Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka (334) 567.4325 Web: www.blueridgebaptistchurch.net Pastor: Rev. John Carney WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. WS: Blended AT: under 150 Min: Childrens, Adult, Youth, College, Prayer and Missions

Centerpoint Fellowship

ad on page 25 4876 U.S. Hwy. 231, Wetumpka. Located in Bienville Square Shopping Center, (334) 356.3076 Email: dawn@centeringlives.com Web: www.centeringlives.com DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Tom Gaylord WT: Sunday, 9:35 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: under 150 MIN: Children, Youth, College, Missions and Small Groups First Baptist Church 205 W. Bridge Street, (334) 567.5191 Website: www.fbcwetumpka.com Pastor: Dr. James Troglen DN: Baptist WT: Sunday, 10:00 a.m. and 5 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Childrens, Youth, Mens, Womens, Older Adults First United Methodist Church 306 W. Tuskeena St., (334) 567.7865 Email: link on website Web: www.fumcwetumpka.com Pastor: Rev. Matt Albrtitton WT: Sunday, 8:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Childrens ministry, Youth, Hispanic Ministry, Young adults, Missions, Prayer and Adult ministry Grace Baptist Church 304 Old Montgomery Hwy., (334) 567.3255 Email: info@gbcwetumpka.com Web: www.gbcwetumpka.org Pastor: Justin L. Teate WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Sunday school, Adult, Youth, Childrens

Mountain View Baptist Church 1025 Rifle Range Rd, (334) 567.4458 Web: www.mvbaptistchurch.info DN: Baptist Pastor: Dr. Tim Thompson WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m., and 6 p.m. MIN: Food closet, AWANA, Upwards Soccer, Operation Christmas Child, Children, Youth, College, Men and Women’s Ministry, Seniors, Music, Education and Library Mulder Memorial UMC 3454 Firetower Rd., (334) 567.4225 Web: www.mulderchurch.org Pastor: Matt Mobley WT: Sunday, 8:10, 9:30 and 11 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 400-800 MIN: Childrens ministry, Adult, Youth, Groups, Outreach, Missions and Prayer Redland Baptist Church 1266 Dozier Road, (334) 567.8649 Web: www.redlandbaptistchurch.org Facebook: Redland Baptist Church DN: Baptist Pastor: Bryce Cox WT: Sunday, 11 a.m., 6 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Childrens, Youth, Senior, Adult, Choir and VBS Redland Hill Church 495 Scholars Drive, (Redland Elementary Gymnasium in Wetumpka), (334) 575.3777 Web: www.redlandhills.org Facebook: Redland Hills Church DN: Non-Denominational Pastor: Wes Gunn WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Childrens, Youth, VBS, Small Groups

36104-Montgomery 2Cities Church  162 Lee Street, (334) 294.7263  Email: info@2cities.org  Website: www.2cities.org Pastor: Brian D. MacDonald  DN: Presbyterian Church in America (PCA)  WT: Sunday, 10 a.m..  WS: Blended AT: under 150  MIN: Men’s and Women’s Bible studies, Community Groups, City Outreach, Childrens The Episcopal Church of the Ascension 315 Clanton Avenue, (334) 263.5529 Email: staff@coascension.org Website: www.coascension.org Rector: Reverend Andrew Thayer DN: Episcopal WT: Sunday, 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Music, Children, Youth, Men’s Prayer Breakfast, Food Pantry, Shut-in, Outreach, Stephen Ministry, Tutoring

First Baptist Church

ad on Back Cover 305 S. Perry Street, (334) 834.6310 Email: link on website Web: www.montgomeryfbc.org DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Rev. Jay Wolf WT: Sunday, 8:30, 11 a.m., and 6:15 p.m. WS: Blended AT: over 1500 MIN: Preschool, Childrens, Youth, College, Singles, Adults, Seniors, Internationals, Music, Special Needs, Community, Television, Support Groups, Counseling Center

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DN: Denomination WT: Worship Times WS: Worship Style(s) AT: Attendance OL: Other Languages MIN: Ministries Offered New Life Church of God in Christ (Annex 3) 600 Columbus Street, (334) 558.0258 Email: pastor@nlcogic.org Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Pastor: Elder Terry Ellison Co-Pastor: Elder Kylle McKinney WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: Under 150 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM, Childrens, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School)Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Mens group, Christian Womens Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry, and much, much more. 24 hr Prayer Line 284-1112 River City Church 301 Dexter Avenue, (334) 263.0549 Email: info@rivercityumc.com Website: www.rivercityumc.com Pastor: Rev. Josh Manning DN: United Methodist WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: under 150 MIN: Childrens, Youth, Children, Small Groups St. John’s AME Church 807 Madison Avenue, (334) 265-4136 Facebook: St. John’s AME Church – Montgomery, Alabama Pastor: Rev. James E. Arnell DN: African Methodist Episcopal WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. MIN: Youth, Clothes Closet, Food Pantry, Free Transportation, Prayer

St. John’s Episcopal Church 113 Madison Avenue, (334) 262.1937 Website: www.stjohnsmontgomery.org DN: Episcopal Rector: Rev. Robert C. Wisnewski Associate Rector: Rev. Candice Frazer and Rev. Daniel P. Strandlund WT: Sunday, 7:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m.; Tuesdays, 7 a.m.; Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m.; Thursdays, 12:05 p.m. AT: 150-400 MIN: Christian Education, Youth, Childrens, Adult, Missions and Outreach, Homeless ministry

Trinity Presbyterian Church

ad on page 19 1728 S. Hull Street, (334) 262.3892 Email: office@trinitypca.org Web: www.trinitypca.org DN: Presbyterian Church in America Pastor: Claude E. McRoberts, III WT: Sunday, 8:30 and 11 a.m., 6 p.m. Summer schedule: 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 400-800 MIN: Adults, Childrens (Catechism Classes and Pioneer Clubs), Youth, Missions, Choir, Preschool, Singles

36105-Montgomery Community Congregational Church 3481 South Court Street, (334) 265-4411 Web: www.cccmontgomery.org Pastor: Rev. Ray Speller WT: Sunday 10:45 am WS: Blended MIN: Men’s, Women’s, Youth, Food Pantry, Clothes Closet, Usher Ministry, Acolyte Ministry and Benevolence Ministry

Snowdoun Baptist Church 6564 Norman Bridge Road, (334) 280.0217 Web: www.snowdounbaptist.org DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Steve Campbell WT: Sunday 11 AM and 6:30 PMWS: Traditional AT: Under 150 MIN: Worship, Children, Youth, Men’s and Women’s Ministries, Missions, Music

36106-Montgomery Capital City Church of the Nazarene 4450 Vaughn Road, (334) 272.8176 Email: link on website Facebook: Capital City Church of the Nazarene DN: Church of the Nazarene Pastor: Blake Mohling WT: Sunday, 10:45 and 6 p.m. and Wednesday 6:30 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Mens, Womens, Childrens, Prayer Group Cloverdale Baptist Church 608 E. Fairview Avenue, (334) 265.9223 Website: www.cloverdalebaptist.net Email: info@cloverdalebaptist.net DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Keith Hinson WT: Sunday, 11 a.m., 5 p.m.; Wednesday,6 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: Under 150 MIN: Sunday school, Preschool Academy, Fun and Fellowship, Seniors, Youth, Choir for all ages Eastwood Presbyterian Church 1701 E. Trinity Blvd., (334) 272.3103 Email: missions@eastwoodchurch.org Web: www.eastwoodchurch.org

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River Region’s Journey

36108-Montgomery Mt. Gillard Missionary Baptist Church

DN: Presbyterian (PCA) Pastor: Bart Lester WT: Sunday, 10:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 400-800 MIN: Missions, Counseling, School, College, Youth, Women, Military Evangel Church 3975 Vaughn Road, (334) 272.4882 Web: http:evangelchurch.me DN: Assembly of God Pastor: Michael Rippy WT: Sunday, 9 a.m. (classical) and 11:00 a.m. (contemporary) WS: Contemporary AT: 400-800 MIN: Sunday school, Children, Students, College, Growth Track, Life Groups, Dream Team First United Methodist Church 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, (334) 834.8990 Email: info@fumcmontgomery.org Web: www.fumcmontgomery.org DN: Methodist Pastor: Dr. Jeremy K. Pridgeon WT: Sunday, 8:45 a.m., 11 a.m. and Wed. night at 5:30 WS: Traditional AT: 800 to 1500 MIN: Childrens, Youth, Young Adults, Adults, Seniors, Mens, Womens Heritage Baptist Church 1849 Perry Hill Road, (334) 279.9976 Web: www.hbcm.net Pastor: Teman Knight DN: Southern Baptist WT: Sunday, 10:15 WS: Blended AT: 400-800 MIN: Children, VBS, Seniors, Journeymen Men’ Minsitry, Zoe Women’s Ministry, Lifestones, Youth, College, Family Life Center, Child Development Center, Footprints Ministry and Heritage FaithRiderz. New Life Church of God in Christ (Annex 1) 1615 Mulberry Street, (334) 558.0258 Email: pastor@nlcogic.org Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Pastor: Elder Terry Ellison Co-Pastor: Elder Charles Clark WT: Sunday, 10 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: Under 150 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM, Childrens, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School)Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Men’s group, Christian Womens Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry, and much, much more. 24 hr Prayer Line 284-1112

River Region’s Journey

July 2017

New Life Church of God in Christ (Annex 6) 1601 East Trinity Blvd., (334) 558.0258 Email: pastor@nlcogic.org Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Pastor: Elder Terry Ellison Co-Pastor: Elder Rodney Brannon WT: Sunday, 8:45 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: Under 150 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM, Childrens, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School)Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Men’s group, Christian Womens Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry, and much, much more. 24 hr Prayer Line 284-1112 Vaughn Park Church of Christ 3800 Vaughn Road, (334) 272.2665 Web: www.vaughnpark.com Pastor: Brad Sullivan DN: Church of Christ WT: Sunday, 10 a.m., 5 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 400-800 MIN: Agape, Bible Class, Childrens, Financial Peace University, Life Groups, Food Pantry, Ladies, Inner City, Marriage, Mens, Student, Upward, World Bible School and Worship

36107-Montgomery Capitol Heights Baptist Church 2514 Madison Avenue, (334) 264.6461 Email: link on website Web: www.capitolheights.org DN: Baptist Pastor: J. Warren Culver WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Worship & Music, Childrens, Families, Mens, Seniors, Students, Womens

Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church

ad on page 9 1550 East Washington Street, (334) 265.1807 Website: www.pilgrimrestmbc.org Pastor: Rev. Walter E. Ellis DN: Baptist WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m., Noon Day Prayer on Tuesday and Thursday. Wednesday Prayer Meeting 6 p.m., Bible Study, 7 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 400-800 MIN: Sunday School, Youth Mentoring, Youth Choir, Women’s, Bible Study

ad on page 12 3323 Day Street, (334) 263.2171 Website: Find us on Facebook Pastor: Henry Carnegie DN: Missionary Baptist WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m., Wednesday Mid-day Bible Study, 11:30 a.m., and Wednesday night 6:30 p.m. Praise & Worship AT: under 150 MIN: Sunday School, Health and Wellness Ministry, Food Bank, Youth, Childrens Church New Life Church of God in Christ (Annex 4) 4781 Mobile Highway, (334) 558.0258 Email: pastor@nlcogic.org Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Pastor: Elder Terry Ellison WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 400 to 800 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM, Childrens, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strageties To Achieving Godly Experiences in School)Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Mens group, Christian Womens Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry, and much, much more. 24 hr Prayer Line 284-1112 Rosa Parks Avenue Church of God 1701 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, (334) 265.6008 Web: http://netministries.org/see/churches.exe/ ch22420 Pastor: James I. Marshall DN: Non-denominational WT: Sunday, 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. AT: under 150-400 MIN: Youth, GED Program, Bible Study, Singles, Seniors, Counseling, Choir

36109-Montgomery

All Saints Episcopal Church 645 Coliseum Blvd., (334) 272.2591 Email: link included on website Web: www.episcopalchurch.org or http://www.allsaintsal.com Rector: Rev. David H. Peeples DN: Episcopal WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Outreach, Childrens, Womens, Mens, Youth Beacon of Hope Church of God 1045 Coliseum Blvd., (334) 274.0932 Email: pastor@beaconofhope.cc Web: http://www.beaconofhope.cc/ Pastor: Randall Newman DN: Church of God (HQ. Cleveland, Tennessee) Sunday School: Sunday 9:30a.m. WT: Sunday 10:45a.m. and 6:00p.m. Family Training Hour: Wednesday 7:00p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Nursery, Pre-School, Children, Jr. Church, Student, Youth, Graduates & Professionals, Mens, Womens, Older Adults, Choir Music, Sunday School, Worship, Adult Bible Study, World Missions, Church Planting, Food Ministry, Community Outreach Ministry

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DN: Denomination WT: Worship Times WS: Worship Style(s) AT: Attendance OL: Other Languages MIN: Ministries Offered Cornerstone Christian Church 301 Dalraida Road, (334) 273.8595 Web: www.cornerstone-cc.org DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Jay Thompson WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: Under 150 MIN: Sunday school, Childrens, Youth, Womens, Seniors, AWANA, Cornerstone Kids, CC Quilters Covenant Presbyterian Church 5 Arden Road at Atlanta Highway, (334) 272.1133 Email: covenantpcmgm@bellsouth.net Website: www.covenantmontgomery.com DN: Presbyterian Church in America Pastor: Lee Bloodworth WT: Sunday, 11 a.m., 6 p.m. WS: Traditional, Blended AT: Under 150 MIN: Mens, Womens, Seniors Dalraida Baptist Church 3838 Wares Ferry Road, (334) 272.2412 Web: www.thedalraidadifference.org DN: Baptist Pastor: Rick Evans WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Music, Sunday school, Discipleship, Children’s, Youth, Ladies, Seniors, FAITH Outreach, Missions Dalraida United Methodist Church 3817 Atlanta Highway, (334) 272.2190 Email: info@dalraidaumc.org Web: www.dalraidaumc.org DN: United Methodist WT: Sunday, 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Childrens, Music, Outreach, Sunday School, Youth

Eastern Hills Baptist Church 3604 Pleasant Ridge Road, (334) 272.0604 Web: www.ehbconline.com Pastor: Dr. Rick Marshall WT: Sunday, 10:15 a.m., 6:00 p.m.; Summer Schedule: 10:15 a.m. and 6 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 400-800 OL: Spanish MIN: Children, Teens, College & Career, Adults, Senior Adults, Men, Women, Music, Hispanic, Childcare and Homeschool Eastmont Baptist Church 4505 Atlanta Highway, (334) 277.6300 Web: www.eastmont.org DN: Baptist Pastor: Mike Northcutt WT: Sunday, 8:10 a.m., 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: above 1500 MIN: Childrens, Studetn, College & Career, Singles, Mens, Womens, Senior, Music, Missions, Hispanic, Technical Morningview Baptist Church 125 Calhoun Road, (334) 272.2304 Email: info@morningview.org Web: www.morningview.org DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Shawn Merithew WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Children’s, Youth, Family, AWANA, Student, Adult Bible Studies, Fellowship Groups, Senior Adult , Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy, Music and Worship, GRACE outreach teams, Hands of Christ, Orphan Care, International Missions, Partner Trips Perry Hill United Methodist Church 910 Perry Hill Road, (334) 272.3174 Web: www.perryhillumc.org

Email: office@perryhillumc.org DN: United Methodist Pastor: Mark Osgood WT: Sunday, 10:30 and 6 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: Under 150 MIN: Senior, Famiy, Men, Womens, Music, Prayer, Church, Prayer Shawl St. Paul Lutheran Church 4475 Atlanta Highway, (334) 272.6214 Web: www.stpaulmontgomery.org Pastor: Reverend Carey Elam DN: Lutheran WT: Sunday, 9 a.m. (Contemporary), 10:30 a.m. (traditional) WS: Multiple Styles Offered AT: 150-400 MIN: Youth, Choir The Rock Church 3401 Harrison Road, (334) 260.0984 Email: link on website Web: www.therockofmontgomery.org DN: Inter-denominational Pastor: H. Nelson Cash, Jr. WT: Sunday, 10 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Prayer, Discipleship, Youth, Childrens, Local Outreach, Rock School (grades K3-12) University Church of Christ 5315 Atlanta Hwy, (334) 386.7320 Web: www.ucoc.org DN: Church of Christ Minister: Randy Medlin WT: Sundays, 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 400-800 MIN: Youth, College, Prison and Childrens

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July 2017

River Region’s Journey

36110-Montgomery Chisholm Baptist Church 2938 Lower Wetumpka Road, (334) 262.6437 DN: Baptist WT: Sunday, 10:45 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Community Fellowship Worship Highland Gardens Baptist Church 2014 Johnson Street, (334) 263.0294 Facebook: Highland Gardens Baptist Church Pastor: Earl B. Wise DN: Baptist WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Children, Youth Jubilee Christian Fellowship 55 Red Eagle Road, (334) 451.0059 DN: Congregational Holiness Pastor: Mark H. Pate WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., Wednesday at 6 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 100 Min: Children, Outreach, Sunday School, Youth and Women’

36111-Montgomery New Life Church of God in Christ (Main Campus) 4116 Narrow Lane Road, (334) 558.0258 Email: pastor@nlcogic.org Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Co-Pastor: Elder Charles Clark WT: Sunday, 8 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM Children’s, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School)Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Mens group, Christian Womens Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry, and much, much more. 24 hr Prayer Line 284-1112 Westminster Presbyterian Church 2515 Woodley Road, (334) 281.2241 Web: www.westminsterpcusa.org DN: PC USA Pastor: Rev. Robert Edwards WT: Sunday, 10:25 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Music, Outreach, Sunday school, Womens Whitfield Memorial United Methodist 2673 Fisk Road, (334) 281.2467 Email: office@whitfieldumc.org Web: www.whitfieldumc.org

River Region’s Journey

July 2017

DN: United Methodist Pastor: Rev. Carolyn Nelson WT: Sunday, 8:15 a.m., 10:30 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Children, Youth, Older Adults

36116-Montgomery Aldersgate United Methodist Church 6610 Vaughn Road, (334) 272.6152 Email: email@aldersgateumc.org Web: www.aldersgateumc.org DN: United Methodist Pastor: Dr. Brian Miller WT: Sundays, 10:30 a.m. WS: Multiple Styles Offered AT: 400 to 800 MIN: Children’s Ministry, Youth, Music (all ages), Young Adults (College & Career), Seniors, Stephens, Weekday Children’s Ministry Day Care & After School Programs, Men’s, Women’s, Wednesday Night Connections Dinner & Small Groups, Youth and Adult Sports, Food Pantry, Library Calvary Baptist Church 8197 Decker Lane, (334) 284.3737 Web: www.calvarymontgomery.org DN: Independent Baptist Pastor: Dr. Paul Spargo WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Married, Singles, Seniors, Men, Women, Preschool, Children, AWANA, Bus Ministry, Summer Program, Youth, Missions, Worship

Christchurch

ad on page 3 8800 Vaughn Rd., (334) 387-0566 Email: info@christchurchxp.net Website: www.christchurchmgm.net DN: Anglican Pastor: Rev. Andrew M. Rowell WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m., Holy Eucharist Rite II WS: Traditional AT: 400-800 MIN: Adult, Small Groups, Wednesday Night “Salt & Light”, Young Adults, Men’s, Women’s, Music, Technology, Parish Life, Older Adults’, Youth, Pastoral Care, Children’s, Stewardship Church of the Highlands 4255 Taylor Road, Phone: (205) 980.5577 Email: Erwin@churchofthehighlands.com Website: www.churchofthehighlands.com/campuses/ Montgomery Pastor: Chris Erwin WT: Sunday, 8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. , 1st Wed. at 7 p.m. WS: Contemporary Attendance: 400-800 Ministries: Small Groups, Outreach, Small Groups, Youth, Motion & Missions

Fresh Anointing International Church 150 East Fleming Rd., (334) 613.3363 Email: info@anointedchurch.org Web: www.anointedchurch.org DN: Independent Pastor: Kyle Searcy WT: Sunday, 8:00 and 10:30 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 800-1500 MIN: Singles, Nursing Home, Prison, Childrens, College, Drama, Angel Food, Marital Counseling, Intercession, Fresh Start Christian Academy, KCS Ministries

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Messiah Lutheran Church 6670 Vaughn Road, (334) 277.4213 Email: link on website Web: www.messiahlutheranmgm.org. DN: Lutheran Pastor: Rev. Randy Jones WT: Sunday, 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Youth, Music, Missions, Lunches for Learning New Life Church of God in Christ (Annex 5) 5600 Carriage Hills Drive, (334) 558.0258 Email: pastor@nlcogic.org Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Pastor: Elder Terry Ellison Co-Pastor: Elder Eric Lee WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 400 to 800 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM, Childrens, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School)Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Mens group, Christian Womens Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry. 24 hr Prayer Line 284-1112 New Life Church of God in Christ (Annex 2) 5000 Patterson Road, (334) 558.0258 Email: pastor@nlcogic.org Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Pastor: Elder Terry Ellison Co-Pastor: Elder Theodore Williams WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: Over 1500 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM, Childrens, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School)Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Mens group, Christian Womens Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry, 24 hr. Prayer Line 284-1112 Ridgecrest Baptist Church 5260 Vaughn Road, (334) 277.0011 Email: info@rbcmontgomery.com Web: www.rbcmontgomery.com DN: Southern Baptist Interim Pastor: Dr. Jim Jackson WT: Sunday, 10:45 a.m., 6:15 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400

ad on page 5 3300 Bell Road, (334) 272.9494 Email: link on website Web: www.gatewaybaptist.com Pastor: Grady Smith DN: Southern Baptist WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Small Groups, AWANA , Student, Youth, Seniors, Men and Women’s, Military

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DN: Denomination WT: Worship Times WS: Worship Style(s) AT: Attendance OL: Other Languages MIN: Ministries Offered MIN: Music, Children’s, Youth, Single, Married, Senior, Women’s and Men’s Young Meadows Presbyterian 5780 Vaughn Road, (334) 244.1385 Web: www.youngmeadows.org DN: Presbyterian Church in America Pastor: Dr. Jim Simoneau WT: Sunday, 8:15 (Traditional), and 11 a.m. (Traditional & Bridge Service) WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Childrens, Youth, Choir, Adult Growth Groups Zion Fellowship 4540 Narrow Lane Rd., (334) 281.8971 Email: info@zionfellowshipumc.org or z ionfellowshipchurch@live.com Web: www.zionfellowshipumc.org DN: United Methodist Pastor: Rev. Robert Spicer WT: Sunday, 10:00 a.m. WS: Traditional & Gospel AT: 150-400 MIN: Nursery and Children Other: Youth, Children’s, Men, Women’s, Childcare Center

36117-Montgomery Christ Community Church 8285 Ryan Road, (334) 273.8110 Email: mail@christccm.net Web: www.christccm.net DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Keith Waldrop WT: Sunday, 10:00a.m WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Kids, Student, Ministry, Military, Nursery, Small Group, Women’s, Missions and Volunteer Eastern Oaks Baptist Church 7505 Waresferry Road, (334) 396.9811 Email: admin@easternoaks.org Website: www.easternoaks.org DN: Baptist Minister: Dr. Daniel Gillenwater WT: Sundays, 10:30 a.m. and Wednesday at 6:30 WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Small Groups, Youth, Children and Missions Eastern Meadows Church of Christ 8464 Vaughn Rd., (334) 273.0001 Email: easternmeadows@emcofc.org Website: www.emcofc.org DN: Church of Christ Minister: Steve Housley WT: Sundays, 10 a.m., Sunday night, 5:00p.m. and Wednesday at 6:30 WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Youth, College, Young Adult, Senior, Mens, Womens, Educational, Missions

Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church

ad on Inside Front Cover 6000 Atlanta Highway, (334) 272.8622 Email: info@frazerumc.org Web: www.frazerumc.org DN: United Methodist Pastor: Dr. Larry Bryars WT: Sunday, 8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m.; Chinese Service, 10:30 a.m. WS: Multiple Styles Offered AT: Over 1500 OL: include Chinese as well as Spanish; American Sign Language and Korean interpreters available MIN: Children, Students, Singles, Men, Women, Adult Sunday School and Life Groups, Older Adults, Hispanic, Chinese, Music, Recreation, Community and World Missions, Stephen Ministry, Support Groups, Counseling Clinic, Financial Peace, Marriage and Parenting, TV, and many more.

July 2017

River Region’s Journey

Frazer UMC Hispanic Congregation

ad on Inside Front Cover North Gym, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., (334) 495.6414 Email: info@frazerumc.org Web: www.Frazerumc.org DN: United Methodist Pastor: Mario Aman WT: Sunday, 11:00 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Nursery and Children, Please check the website for all Ministries. GracePointe 1565 Ray Thorington Road, (334) 271.2525 Web: www.grace-pointe.com DN: Church of Christ Pastor: Scotty Harris WT: Sunday, 10a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Children’s, GPS, Life Groups, Women of Grace, Men of Grace, Prayer Ministry

River Region’s Journey

July 2017

Grace @ Bell Road 5 Bell Road, (334) 272.4930 Email: info@discovergrace.org Web: www.discovergrace.org DN: Evangelical Presbyterian Pastor: Bill Thompson WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: Under 150 MIN: Women’s, Men’s, Missions, Children’s, Life Groups, Outreach Harvest Family Church 7245 Copperfield Drive, (334) 277.1156 Email: office@harvestfamilychurch.com Web: www.harvestfamilychurch.com DN: Non-Denominational Pastor: Bill McNeese WT: Sunday, 10 a.m.; Wednesday, 7 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Children, Youth, Women and Men’s.

Lakeview Baptist Church 9225 Atlanta Highway, (334) 213-3080 Email: link on website Web: www.lakeviewbaptistchurch.cc DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Rev. Paul Hubbard WT: Sunday, 10:45 am. WS: Blended AT: Under 150 MIN: Childrens, College and Career, Seniors, Womens, Music, Student, and Young married. Landmark Church of Christ 1800 Halcyon Boulevard, (334) 277.5800 Email: Christians@landmarkchurch.net Web: www.landmarkchurch.net DN: Church of Christ Pastor: Buddy Bell WT: Sunday, 8:15 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 800 to 1500 MIN: Children, Youth, College, Recovery, Inner City, Life Groups, Missions, Life Center Legacy Church 2323 Bell Road, (334) 396.2001 Web: www.thelegacychurch.org Pastor: Rev. Doug McCurry DN: Anglican WT: Sundays, 9:30 a.m.; Wednesday, 6 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: under 150 MIN: Mens, Women’s Childrens Memorial Presbyterian Church 2130 Bell Road, (334) 274.1018 Email: contact@memorialpres.net Web: www.memorialpres.net DN: Presbyterian Pastor: Rev. Nan Adams

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DN: Denomination WT: Worship Times WS: Worship Style(s) AT: Attendance OL: Other Languages MIN: Ministries Offered WT: Sunday, 11:00 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Daycare, Women’s, Youth, Adults, Seniors, Food Ministry, Music, Children’s Passion Church Auburn University of Montgomery, Goodwyn Hall (334) 271.3800 Email: mgm@mypassion.church Web: www.mypassion.church DN: Inter-denominational Pastor: Steve Vickers WT: Sunday, 11:30 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Connect, Volunteer Teams, Passion Works, Teens and Kids

Saint James United Methodist Church

ad on page 11 9045 Vaughn Road, (334) 277.3037 Web: www.sjlife.com DN: United Methodist Pastor: Lester Spencer WT: Sunday, 9:30 (Contemporary), 11 a.m. (Traditional) WS: Traditional & Contemporary AT: 800-1500 MIN: Recreation, Prayer, Recovery, SJ Kids, Pre-school, 245 Student, College, Renew, Ironmen and Seniors. St. Thomas Aquinas Anglican Chapel 433 Towne Lake Place, (334) 215.7254 Email: cmvc48@knology.net Web site: www.aquinasapck.org Priest: Reverend Father Michael V. Church Denomination: Anglo-Catholic Worship Time: Sunday, 10am Worship service: Traditional 1928 BCP worship

Taylor Road Baptist Church

ad on page 4 1685 Taylor Road, (334) 271.3363 Email: trbc@taylordroad.org Web: www.taylorroad.org DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Daniel Atkins WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 400-800 MIN: AWANAS, Childrens Missions, Preschool & Children’s Choirs, Youth & Adult Choirs, Sunday School, Discipleship Training, Womens, Youth and Adult Bible Study, Mothers Morning Out and Kindergarten. Thorington Road Baptist Church 450 Ray Thorington Road, (334) 396.9376 Email: contact through website Web: www.trbclife.org Pastor: Currently open DN: Baptist WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150 to 400 MIN: Nursery, Pre-School, Children, Student, Mens, Womens and VBS Vaughn Forest Baptist Church 8660 Vaughn Road, (334) 279.5433 Email: link through website Web: www.vaughnforest.com Pastor: Eric Smith DN: Southern Baptist WT: Sunday, 9:30 and 11 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 800 to 1500 OL: Spanish and Korean MIN: Small Groups, Preschool, Student, Singles, Older Adults, Worship, Hispanic If your church was not listed in this year’s church directory, please email deanne@readjourneymagazine.com or call 334.213.7940. We’ll be sure to add you in future Church Directory issues.

July 2017

River Region’s Journey

Celebrating the Holy Spirit I sat on my bed on the morning of June 5th, reminiscing on the great outpouring of the Holy Spirit during our church service the previous day. I felt the sensations of joy, love, and peace wrapped around me like a thick warm blanket, with the comforting weight of His glory. The worship experience was in itself really awesome as we sang, worshiped, and expressed adoration to the one true God. I could see the glory of the Lord on people’s faces, as tears ran down many cheeks. It didn’t surprise me to see such an incredible level of glory, because the Holy Spirit has always graced us with His presence. What surprised me was when the preacher walked up on the podium and announced that it was Pentecost Sunday. I thought to myself, How come I didn’t hear about it till now? We celebrate all types of holidays to honor mothers, veterans, fathers, valentines, and independence. The 4th of July celebration tops the chart of all commemorations, with parades, cookouts, concerts, family reunions, and elaborate fireworks that salute our founding fathers. We pay tribute to the countless number of brave men and women who fought and died to maintain our freedoms. We are forever in debt to these selfless people. No amount of adulation is equal to their ultimate sacrifices. But while we praise these heroes, most neglect the One Person we should praise the most – the precious Holy Spirit. He River Region’s Journey

July 2017

is the One who inspired, empowered, and propelled our heroes into action to make the ultimate freedoms we enjoy! The Holy Spirit is the architect of all things beautiful and profitable. If we think to bless others, He has inspired those thoughts. If we desire to create anything to advance humanity, He has stirred those feelings. If we are provoked to fight in defense of others, He has quickened our hearts to do so. It is He who ignites us to love others, and even gives us the grace to love the unlovable. He gives us mothers the creativity needed to balance the countless hats we wear. He creates in us an unconditional love for those rebellious children, and a deep love for an undeserving husband. It is the Holy Spirit who props us up when we are weak and feel like giving up. He’s been the wind beneath our sail, and the comforter in times of sorrow. He checks us when we are ready to use our tongue the wrong way, and He reminds us where our keys are when we can’t find them. He’s been there even in the minor details of our lives. Above all, He is the One who exposes Christ to our hearts so that we can accept Jesus’ gift of salvation. The only reason we know and love Jesus is because of the Holy Spirit! Not to celebrate such a Helper is a detriment to our wellbeing!

Introducing the C.O.O. The Holy Spirit is the Third Person in 28

the Godhead. There is God the Father, God the Son (known as Jesus), and God the Holy Spirit – all three persons live within the Godhead. All are one and the same in personality and attributes, but are separate in function or role. You can look at God the Father as a CEO of a corporation – the One who gives the directives. The Son, Jesus Christ, is the Administrator as He carries out the instructions of the Father. The Holy Spirit is the (C.O.O.) Chairman of Operations, who brings into action the performance of the Son. God says, “Let there be light!” Jesus flips the switch. Holy Spirit ignites the power. And there is light. These Persons of the Godhead were first introduced to the world in Genesis 1:26, and later referred to in John 1:1-5, Matthew 3:16, and Acts 10:38. At the end of Jesus’ ministry, He said to His disciples that it was for their good that He went away, because as God-Man he was limited…He could only be at one place at a time, ministering to a single person or a group. But the Holy Spirit was sent to be with us individually, almost like our own personal “God” at our disposal at any given moment, and Jesus said this was far more profitable for us because He can minister to everyone simultaneously. The Holy Spirit’s role is to guide, lead, teach, convict, encourage, comfort, and to bring people into the worthy place prepared for them. May I introduce to you my best friend, the Holy Spirit?

Knowing the Holy Spirit 1. Ask Him to reveal himself to you. 2. Study Him. See Luke 24:49, Acts 2:1-5, Acts 10:38, Acts 16:6-10, Acts 19:2 1 Corinthians 12:3. 3. Live in a perpetual Pentecost experience. Let’s not miss this holy-day! Celebrate the Holy Spirit!

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July 2017

River Region’s Journey

God and the Moon Jeff Bezos wants to change the world. And, it’s clear that his company, Amazon, has certainly altered the way we purchase products. He also wants to change the way people think - he owns a newspaper, The Washington Post, that approaches the news from a decidedly liberal point of view; some have accused it of being a purveyor of “fake news.” Amazon is spending $4.5 billion on video this year, according to Business Insider. Bezos promotes a radical social agenda, a show such as Transparent provides a vehicle to do it. The article says that show creator, Jill Soloway, at Vox Media’s Code Conference recently, “said she once asked Bezos for his take on balancing her desire to help push social change, with her career as a Hollywood showrunner.” The article continues: “They are the same thing,” Bezos replied, according to Soloway. “The way that you make change with story … is so much faster than the way politics can make change,” he continued. If you create pop culture products that have compelling stories in them — for example stories that humanize transgender people like in “Transparent” — “laws follow,” according to Bezos. Bezos is certainly committed to changing life here on earth and has announced that he wants to transfer human life to...the moon! Geekwire reports that Bezos said to a group of kids at Seattle’s Museum of Flight: “I think we should build a permanent human settlement on one of the poles of the moon,” adding, “It’s time to go back to the moon, but this time to stay.” River Region’s Journey

July 2017

Bezos has talked about moon missions before, and has told NASA that his Blue Origin space venture could make Amazon-like deliveries to the moon, as part of a program called Blue Moon. He’s reportedly putting aside a billion dollars per year for the project and expanding his company to develop the New Shepherd spaceship and New Glenn rocket to make it happen. Geekwire reports that Bezos “argues that in order to keep up with a global population’s growing demands for energy and manufactured goods, we earthlings will eventually have to take advantage of resources and territories beyond Earth.” What is fascinating is that the moon already has a dramatic effect on sustaining life here on earth. Danny Faulkner of Answers in Genesis, in debunking some popular scientific theories about the origins of the moon, writes this: The moon’s unique orbit suggests that the moon had a unique origin. Scripture also suggests that the moon has a unique origin. The moon is the lesser light that God made on Day Four (Genesis 1:14–19). The moon was intended to provide light on the earth, as well as to be used in time reckoning. But we have found that the moon does much more. The moon’s unique orbit causes it to stabilize the earth’s axial tilt. Without the moon’s stabilizing effect, longterm prospects on earth would be grim. This is consistent with Isaiah 45:18, which tells us that God created the earth to be inhabited. Therefore, the moon didn’t form from a ran30

dom series of events. Rather God took care in how He made everything, including the moon. Focus in on this statement: Without the moon’s stabilizing effect, long-term prospects on earth would be grim. The moon testifies to the greatness and wisdom of Creator God. The moon may or may not have been meant for human life - and it was a significant achievement to put men on the moon - but the moon helps to sustain human life. It’s all part of God’s design. The moon was made by God on Day 4 of creation. It is an object so important, so vital, that it is referred to in the Scriptures. The earth was created as a place where God’s creation, including you and me, could survive to live for Him - the moon demonstrates to us His loving care over His creation. When you see the moon in the sky, remember the love of a Creator, and His matchless ability to create, and to bring and sustain order in the universe. In His excellent greatness, He wants to have a personal relationship with us through Jesus Christ. The heavens testify to His majesty; the cross testifies to His love. God has endowed each of us with incredible potential. Jeff Bezos is a smart guy, and he’s using the resources he has acquired to develop even more innovative ideas, and unfortunately, to promote ideas that are not consistent with the Scriptures. We have the connection with God’s truth and creativity and can be challenged to use the gifts and resources He has provided for us to tell His story. We, in partnership with the Holy Spirit, can be used to help change people’s lives for good through a relationship with Christ.

Bob Crittenden is host of “The Meeting House”, heard weekday afternoons from 4-6pm on Faith Radio, 89.1FM in Montgomery. Described as “the intersection of faith and culture”, the program features Christian music and conversation about a variety of topics. Learn more by visiting www. meetinghouseonline.info.

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July 2017

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

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With the help of its church partnerships, S.T.E.P. has developed a framework for individuals and churches to work hand-in-hand to fulfill the needs of those living in at-risk communities. This framework became the “strategies” used to elevate people. There are now six strategies used by the S.T.E.P. staff and volunteers: Evangelism, Dream Girls Unlimited, Boys to Me Unlimited, Summer Enrichment Program, Tutorial Program and Violence Prevention Program. Montgomery S.T.E.P. Foundation is a faith-based organization where the number one goal is to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Through church partnerships and its own endeavors, S.T.E.P. shares the Gospel using storybooks and artistic expressions such as music and drama. Dream Girls Unlimited and Boys to Men Unlimited are “success-mentoring” programs for boys and girls between the ages of 9-16 to acquire life skills, discover various careers, and receive training on various topics from positive women in the community. The mission of this program is to empower and inspire girls to become exceptional young ladies that lead healthy and productive lives by utilizing their talents for the good of themselves and their communities. The program includes guest speakers, entrepreneurship training, and field trips to local businesses or organizations that offer their time and services to support the S.T.E.P. mission. Sederick

by Ashley Sherlock

“I got involved with S.T.E.P. several years ago by volunteering as a college student to help with outreach events. I must say, I feel as passionate about the mission of S.T.E.P. today as I did in my college years.” Sederick Fluker is the current director of Montgomery S.T.E.P. (Strategies to Elevate People) Foundation. Established in 1986, this faith-centered nonprofit organization has successfully impacted the inner city missions of Montgomery for more than 30 years. River Region’s Journey

July 2017

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said there are plans to expand the Dream Girls program this fall by adding a program coordinator to the S.T.E.P. staff in order to be able to impact more at-risk girls. Also in the future, Sederick hopes to expand their services to be able to help any child that needs help. S.T.E.P. does not screen the children who come through the programs and all of the programs are 100% free. While there isn’t a housing community in Montgomery that hasn’t been impacted by S.T.E.P., Sederick still wants to be available to everyone. Since it’s beginning, S.T.E.P. has impacted so many people that it has become difficult to keep track of them all. Sederick said the programs are more extensive than even he realizes, and in the future he’d like to come up with a way to keep better track of the kids that go through the programs. One thing that counts both as something Sederick wants to work on for the future of S.T.E.P. and a S.T.E.P. success story is the way that this ministry connects people. S.T.E.P. has already shared its model with those who have wanted to start ministries in their own communities, but didn’t know how. Sederick wants S.T.E.P. to continue to be the type of ministry that paves the way for other organizations to provide their services. He loves connecting those who need help with those who can provide the help. “Oh, there are so many,” Sederick said about his favorite S.T.E.P. success stories. “We’re noticing multiple testimonies from children who were in the S.T.E.P. programs who are now adults successfully contributing to the Montgomery community, and they’re giving S.T.E.P. the credit for that.” “It almost seems weekly now that I encounter someone who has a ’S.T.E.P. Story.’ Whether that individual volunteered with S.T.E.P. or was a beneficiary of one of our programs, there’s always a light of joy in their faces as they tell stories of their involvement with S.T.E.P.” The 2016-2017 school year was a banner year for S.T.E.P. It was awarded Community Partners of the Year by Progressive Academy for Creative Education for its Boys to Men Unlimited and Dreams Girls Unlimited programs on campus. A recent independent professional evaluation showed that S.T.E.P. had reduced the number of office referrals from at-risk youth at school. And in the 20162017 school year, the number of children on the verge of getting suspended in the first semester significantly decreased in the second semester because of the S.T.E.P. programs. One former S.T.E.P. student, who is now a manager at a Montgomery restaurant, contacted Sederick to see if she could volunteer to speak at Dream Girls Unlimited. She wanted to give the girls who are currently in the program what S.T.E.P. gave her...hope.

Sederick believes it is important to note that summer can be a time of idleness, causing children to fall into bad behavior. S.T.E.P. is one of the very few organizations that offer summer daytime programs in Montgomery. This summer, they have even been working on transforming empty community centers into places for summer enrichment. To learn more about Montgomery S.T.E.P. Foundation and volunteer opportunities, visit www.mongtomerystep.org or find them on Facebook as Montgomery STEP Foundation. You can also make donations payable to Montgomery S.T.E.P. Foundation and send to P.O. Box 193, Montgomery, AL, 36101. A Florida native, Ashley Sherlock made the transition to Alabama to pursue a degree in English. She has a passion for the written word, an affinity for the outdoors, a love for people, and a desire for the Lord.

July 2017

River Region’s Journey

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Adoption

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy and First UMC, Millbrook APAC- Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connection Support Group This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer. For more information call Sonia Martin at 409-9477 or she can be reached by email at smartin@childrensaid.org. For information on the Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support group please contact Kathy King 205-943-5331 or email kking@childrensaid.org Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Leaders: Chad & Betsy Emerson (334) 201-5241 Wednesday, 6:30pm in Rm. 116. The Orphan Care Group will focus on God’s call to help orphans through adoption, foster care, and missions work. The group will share experiences, study and Biblical themes regarding orphan care, and provide a support and network.

River Region’s Journey

July 2017

Alcoholic / Addict

Location: Caring Center of FBC, 52 Adams Avenue CrossRoads Support Group is for addicts/alcoholics and family members. Meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays and follows a Christ-centered 12-step program. Call 264-4949. Location: Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway Alcoholics Anonymous meets at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays. 272.2190. Alanon meets at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. Location: First Baptist Church (Huff Community Ministries Bldg., 200 S. Perry Street) Celebrate Recovery, a Bible-based Christ centered approach to recovery from hurts, habits and hang-ups, meets Friday nights, from 5:30 p.m.- 8 p.m. For more information, contact Jane Ferguson at 241.5141. Location: 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.

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Location: Journey Church, 2960 East Cobbs Ford Road across from The Catfish House in Millbrook Celebrate Recovery - Christ-centered 12-step for anyone struggling with addiction or life-challenging issues. Mondays at 5:30pm (meal-CrossTalk Cafe), 6-6:55 pm (large group), 6:55-7:45 (small group). Childcare available. Call Larry at 334-832-5714 or visit myjourneychurch.com.

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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.

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Location: Prattville Church of Christ, 344 East Main St. RSVP - 12 step (Christians Against Substance Abuse-CASA) spiritual recovery program, for overcoming addictions. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 PM. Please call 334365-4201 for addition information. Location: Santuck Baptist Church, 7250 Central Plank Rd. (Hwy 9), Wetumpka. Celebrate Recovery meets each Thursday evening at 6:15 in the Fellowship Hall. This is a Chrsit centered 12 step-program for anyone struggling with hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Call 567-2364. Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) is open to all struggling with addictive sexual behavior. If you believe you have a problem with sex addiction (or are wondering if you might) and you want to change your behavior, we recommend you visit our group. For locations, please visithttps://saa-recovery.org/ or please contact – MontgomerySAA@outlook.com. Meetings are held: every Sunday night - 7:45 p.m, men only. Every Monday night - 7:30 p.m, men and women. Location: St. James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road Celebrate Recovery meets every Thursday night from 6-8 pm in the Youth Room. This is a Christ-centered 12-step group for anyone struggling with an “addiction or lifechallenging issues.” For information, call Chris Henderson at 334-215-0427.

minister to those with his background. All are welcome, not a requirement to own/ride a motorcycle. Format used is the Holy Bible. For any info contact ministry leader, Paul Henderson, 334-201-5428.

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.

Alzheimer’s / Dementia

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support Group, providing education, awareness, and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family, and friends, meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in Rm 8253. Call 220-4599 or visit womenofhope@ charter.net.

Location: First UMC, 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, Wesley Hall Bldg. An Adult Parkinson/Alzheimer’s respite ministry meets from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Lunch is served. Contact Daphne at 834-8990. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy An Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers’ Support Group meets on the first Thursday of each month at 11 a.m. in Room 3103. Call 272.8622. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Dementia Daycare is held each Thursday in Rm. 3101 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Each participant may bring a sack lunch. There is no charge. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Call the LifeCare office at 272-8622.

Cancer

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

Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery Cancer Survivors Support Group is sponsored by Samaritan Counseling Center. We would love to have anyone (patient or family member ) join us. Thursdays at 1 pm. Please call before attending just to make sure we are meeting that week. Please call Debbie D at 467-4578 or Ben W at 202-1912.

Location: 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

Location: Dalraida Baptist, 3838 Wares Ferry Road. Just for Men -- Faith based cancer support group for men. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the conference center. Please call 272-2412 email stan.hurst@knology.net.

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. The Montgomery Area 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 and Tricia Crowley at 2647586 or jpcrowl46@yahoo.com.

Divorce

Location: First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street Divorce Care is held Wednesdays, 6:30-8 pm. Childcare available. $15 for workbook. Dinner at 4:45 ($5 adults, $3 kids). Call Kathy Cooper at 241-5125.

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Divorce Care meets each Tuesday from 6-7:30pm. in the

July 2017

River Region’s Journey

Fellowship Hall Lobby. This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. Also, are you stuck in a pattern of going back to the same relationships or situations hoping for or expecting different results? In this new study “Never Go Back”, you will recognize and truly change those life patterns that hold you back and keep you from your goals. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org. Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road DivorceCare fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. Call 279-5433.

Gambling

Location: Cedarwood Community Church, 10286 US HWY 231 in the Wallsboro/Wetumpka community Gamblers Anonymous, Saturdays at 6 pm. 567-0476 Location: Mental Health of America Bldg, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Sundays @ 5 pm. Location: St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy, Mondays @ 6pm. Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420 or you can call 2-1-1 and ask for meeting information. Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling: 277-5100

Grief

Location: 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, Tuesday evenings at 6:30 pm in the church parlor. Call 365-5977. Location: Frazer UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Grief Recovery Support Group meets Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., Rm 3105, in Fellowship Hall Lobby. 272.8622. Location: Grace Baptist Church, 304 Old Montgomery Highway, Wetumpka Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. Meets the last Thursday night of each month. For info, contact Alice Scarborough (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis (334) 567-8754 or e-mail mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. Location: Millbrook FUMC, 3350 Edgewood Rd Grief Share meets Sundays from 5-7 p.m. For more information or to sign up, please call the church office at 285-4114 or email churchoffice@mfumc.org. Location: Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1550 E. Washington Street Grief Ministry is a grief recovery support group that meets every Monday at 6:00 P.M. The ministry is designed to help anyone through the hurt of losing a loved one by successfully traveling the journey from mourning to joy. Alicia Glover is the coordinator. For information contact Glover at 334-281-2754.

Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road GriefShare is a support group that meets Wednesdays from 6-8 pm. This program is nondenominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. Call 279-5433 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. 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.

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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 2723174. 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: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms, and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. We meet the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month from 9:30—11:30 a.m. Childcare is provided. For info e-mail VFCMOPS@gmail.com.

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Physical Challenges

Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Road Visually Impaired Support Group – Meets monthly on second Thursday 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. The group is called Outward Sight - Inward Vision and is for those with vision loss and their caregivers. Our mission is to assist those experiencing vision loss to maintain their independence by providing access to valuable information and spiritual support. Call 272-6152. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy An MDA/ALS Support Group will meet Tuesday August 10 6:00p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in room 3101. Anyone affected by a neuromuscular disease or family members of those affected. To receive info, call 396-4534. Location: Vaughn Park Church, 3800 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach Group meets 2nd Friday of each month from 6:30- 8 PM. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare is provided. Please visit www. montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com or our Facebook page (MADSOG) for information. Please contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail.com.

Same Sex Attraction

Location: Huff Community Ministry Building of First Baptist Church at 200 S. Perry Street Upstream Support Group for those dealing with unwanted same sex attraction and family members or loved ones of those who are gay identified. The group meets at 6:30 pm every first, third and fifth Tuesday evenings. For more information call 334.452.0620.

Singlehood

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Boundaries study for singles meets each Tuesday from 6-7:30pm in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. This study will help singles learn to set boundaries with emotions and help avoid the harmful behavior of others. For information, call 495-6386 or email singles@frazerumc.org. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Single and Parenting! A New Group for Single Mom’s. This group meets every Tuesday from 6-7:30pm for hope & encouragement & guidance & parenting ideas. For information, call 495-6386 or email singles@frazerumc.org.

July 2017

River Region’s Journey

July 2017

Warning Signs of an Abusive Relationship In a rush to find romantic love, we often find ourselves accentuating the good parts of our relationships while minimizing the bad. In hindsight, after the disaster, we often reflect and notice warning signs and feel stupid and vow that we’ll never be that person again. We look back and can clearly see how we were manipulated and hurt. Then it happens…again. As a therapist, I talk to many women and men who hope to not repeat the past. Here are a three warning signs of unhealthy relationships to give you 20/20 vision and keep you clear-headed in matters of the heart.

“I Was Only Kidding”: Hurtful Things Done in Jest. Your mate teases you, degrades you, or says something hurtful and when you react as such, he or she blows you off as being “too sensitive” or complains that you “can’t take a joke” and are overacting. This is emotional abuse and is a sign of more to come. He or she may also test your boundaries in this way physically, under the guise of horseplay or rough-housing. I once knew a woman, whose boyfriend River Region’s Journey

July 2017

would “play” with her by pinching her nose until it turned painfully red then call her Rudolph. Her face would remain bruised for days. Pain and hurtful words are never fun or humorous. If someone finds pleasure at your emotional and physical expense, it is time to reconsider their place in your space. They don’t respect your body, space or emotional well-being.

“What Happened Was”... Excuses & Lies. We all tell little white lies - well some of us. Others are psychologically and or behaviorally prone to flat out lie when asked about the simplest of indiscretions. If your partner constantly makes up excuses or blames others for their mistakes, faults and mess-ups, this is a big red flag. They may even guilt trip you about your past mistakes while ignoring their own. Aside from being untrustworthy, they may have the propensity for other high risk behaviors like impulsivity, infidelity and the like.

“You are My Soulmate” -Too Close…Too Soon.

On the first date you spend most of the time talking, and he or she says “we have so much in common”, and shortly after, they suggest you are meant to be! True love takes time. The rest is merely brain chemistry and hormones, or what I like to 38

refer to as the “love brain”. The euphoria we feel in the beginning of a relationship, or during courting, is a result of the release of dopamine and other brain chemicals. If you become sexually intimate, you add to that cocktail of chemicals the hormone oxytocin, which aids us in bonding with our mate. Be cautious of anyone who declares you their soulmate early on. They may flatter you, stroke your insecurities and declare you as “perfect”. Such behavior is often used by those who want to conquer, isolate and become controlling. Is your vision getting clearer? I hope so. Relationships are meant to be healthy, liberating and the foundation for becoming your best self. In 1 John 4:18, we are reminded that there is no fear in love. This fellowship should mirror the love of Christ. You are more than worthy of such love, simply because you are God’s child, made in His image. Your mate’s love should reflect the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 -- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. May the love you experience be as such. Amen.

Candyce Anderson, M.S., A.L.C. is an associate licensed counselor helping victims of abuse and trauma at The Samaritan Counseling Center. She is the author of the Love TAPS: Red Flags of An Abuser & How to Get Out.

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

Skipping to the Altar Q. My wife and I make good money, and our daughter’s college education is pretty much paid for through pre-paid tuition and scholarships. We just started your plan to get out of debt and take better control of our finances. When we get to Baby Step 5, which is saving for college, can we substitute that with saving for a wedding?

Just remember to pay cash for the wedding. If you have to go into debt to make it happen, then you’re talking about too much money. It’s as simple as that. Crunch the numbers with your wife, and see what you two can handle. And remember, there’s absolutely no correlation between the cost of a wedding and the success of the relationship!

Bad Advice From a Bad Friend

A. That would be fine. I’m glad you’re thinking ahead. It’s always a good idea to save toward a wedding if you have the financial resources to do so, because weddings are real and they’re coming. The average wedding in America today runs around $35,000. Of course, you don’t have to pay anywhere near that amount to make it a beautiful occasion. Your household income, debt, savings and other factors will all play into how much you can afford.

River Region’s Journey

July 2017

Q. My husband and I are currently in Baby Step 2, and paying off all our debt except for our home. A friend recently told us to pay off everything except for the credit card debt. She says we can then settle for a far less amount and not have so much money go-

ing out the door. This feels a little unethical to me. What are your thoughts? A. There’s a good reason this idea feel unethical to you — it is unethical! Would a good friend, a smart friend, encourage you to do something as dishonorable as not pay a bill you’re morally and legally obligated to pay? I don’t think so. If you’re able to pay your bills, you pay your bills. It’s as simple as that. Now, if you honestly can’t pay the bill, and you have to settle upon a mutually agreed upon amount with the creditor or collector, then it’s okay at that point to try and reach a settlement. Otherwise, it’s a simple question of ethics. Pay the bill!

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