River Region's Journey October 2016 by KeepSharing

CO M E J O I N T H E F R A Z E R FA M I LY A S W E C E L E B R AT E ! T E A C H I N G S E R I E S O C T . 9 – N O V. 13 , 2 016

SHOUT WHAT GOD HAS DONE. SEEK WHAT GOD WILL DO.

ATLANTA HIGHWAY 8, 9:30 AND 11AM PIKE ROAD SCHOOL 10:00AM WWW.FRAZER.CHURCH • 334.272.8622

Volume 18, Issue 6

Feature Articles

O CTO BER 20 1 6 Columns page 2

page 12

Publisher’s Note

Faith @ Work

Jason Watson

Katrina Johnson, Director of Special Education for Montgomery Public Schools, shares about her calling to work with special needs children, and also how God has used the trials in her life to make her stronger.

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Pastor's Perspective Larry Bryars, Frazer Memorial UMC

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Women Arising Pastor Kemi Searcy

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Pondering the Journey

When You Don’t Celebrate Halloween

Sam Whatley

page 32

The Intersection Bob Crittenden

by Gayla Grace

If your family chooses not to celebrate Halloween, there are still plenty of ways to have fun with your children and friends. Discover some great fall ideas here!

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Counselor’s Corner Deborah S. Cowell, LMFT

page 36

Dave $ays

page 20

Dave Ramsey

Fall Festival Guide

Local churches offer alternatives to Halloween that are safe and full of fun (and treats) for your kids!

In Every Issue page 6

page 24

Books to Read

Ministry Spotlight:

Life on Wheels by Laura Bell

Find out about this exciting ministry launching in October! It provides free ultrasounds for women in crisis pregnancy situations as a step to decrease abortions in Alabama. 1

page 8

Around Our Community page 12

Faith @ Work

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River Region’s Journey

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

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@readjourneymagazine.com

Publisher

Jason Watson jason@readjourneymagazine.com

Associate Publisher Gena Hill

Research Editor Wendy McCollum

Contributing Writers Laura Bell Dr. Larry Bryars Tim Challies Deborah S. Cowell, LMFT Bob Crittenden Gayla Grace Dave Ramsey Kemi Searcy Sam Whatley

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

Ad Design

Tim Welch, Welch Designs

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

From the Publisher When someone comes to faith in Christ a transformation occurs. Our position before God is instantly changed from guilty rebel to child of God because Christ has processed our debt of sin through His life, death and resurrection. Our whole character, on the other hand, is not changed in an instant. God places His Spirit in us, and through the Spirit’s power and leading we begin the process of having our character transformed...becoming Christ-like. Like holding a golf club for the first time, the change feels awkward at the start but, over time, living according to God’s will becomes more like second nature. Halloween is a holiday that reveals my old and new natures being at odds. For me, as a young person, I thought nothing of the scary costumes and movies that glorified death and evil, but now my spirit rejects 20 second commercials promoting the latest scary movies. It’s not because I’m a wimp these days. I don’t like entertaining thoughts that so blatantly go against the holiness and goodness of God. Thoughts that come in our minds aren’t neutral. They shape our character, so we must be careful what we let in. Thankfully, many of our local churches offer Halloween alternatives. We’ve created a listing of these beginning on page 20, plus many of these churches have ads in this issue describing all the fun to be had. Attending a fall festival gives your family the opportunity to meet like-minded families, enjoy some candy and games, and stay safe. If you would like to stay in your own neighborhood, but are still looking for an alternative, read What to Do When You Don’t Celebrate Halloween. You’ll find many ideas for having a great time on October 31. The political season is nearing the end at a fever pitch. One topic that continues to be debated is each candidate’s view on abortion. As I mentioned already, thoughts that come into our minds aren’t neutral and they do shape our character. How does the world’s population justify killing 40 million unborn children each year? Seeds of deceit sown for decades have produced hearts of stone towards the sanctity of life. That’s why I’m excited about the work being done by this month’s ministry spotlight, Life On Wheels Alabama. This ministry meets pregnant women on their way to abortion clinics and helps them see the miracle of their baby’s life through ultrasound. This new approach to crisis pregnancy is sure to save lives. Find all the details on page 24 and consider getting involved! Thank you for reading River Region’s Journey. Our articles and community information will help shape your Christ-like character as we share His truth with you. Don’t end this work when your done reading the last page. Pass this issue on to a friend or co-worker. We want to encourage everyone to know Christ and to grow in faith, so they can experience the freedom of a life in Him.

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 2016 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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Pastor’s Perspective

Dr. Larry Bryars, Frazer Memorial UMC

The Most Important Win Autumn has always been my favorite season. There are many reasons…the weather gets cooler, the leaves are changing, and it’s football season. Already some of my favorite teams have won and lost, and we have only just begun. This past weekend at least two of my teams were down at the half. By the end of the game they had made a comeback and won the game. Nothing feels better than winning, and we love seeing someone win. Some of us had our eyes glued to the television during the Olympics as we watched winner after winner accept their gold medals with tears streaming down

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their faces. We celebrated along with them and felt like we had won. On the other hand, nobody wants to lose. One of the blessings of opening our hearts to Jesus is that we are filled with new joy, love, peace, and so much more. All the things we truly want. We know we have become winners since we have won eternal life. We have forgiveness of sins and a home in heaven as a gift of grace. In the book of Hebrews and in chapter 12 we see a challenge to live our life like an athlete running a race. We are encouraged to persevere and to keep our eyes on Jesus. I Corinthians 9 states that we want to run in such a way to win the prize. The prize is the Kingdom of Heaven. We keep our eyes on Jesus and run faithfully to the finish. We love to read the stories of those in the Scriptures that find redemption. One of those incredible stories is about a man named Saul who goes from persecuting Christians to becoming a follower of Jesus. He is so devoted to the faith that he becomes known as the Apostle Paul. Many men and women left their evil ways to become an 4

eternal winner as they heard him preach. For one to lose a game and even a gold medal is nothing compared to losing eternal life. How sad it is to hear the stories of those who make the wrong decision. There was one young man that approached Jesus to find what it would take for him to win eternal life. He had done everything he could humanly do. He lived as good a life as possible. When he asked Jesus what were the requirements for eternal life, he found he was close to perfect, but Jesus said just one more thing was required. The man they called the Rich Young Ruler was too attached to his worldly passions to let go of it all and become a follower of Jesus. When Jesus challenged him to sell all and follow Him, he turned away sad because he had great wealth. Some would say he was a winner by the world’s standard, but he was a loser in eternity. He was not a loser because he was rich; many rich people became followers of Jesus and still do. The problem for this rich, young man was that he could not put God first and yield to faithfully follow Jesus. Winning in a sport or in any earthly endeavor feels good, but the feeling of euphoria will fade away. I have had my earthly wins. However, the day I realized that God was not only WITH me but that His Spirit was also IN me, my life changed forever. That assurance of eternal life transformed the way that I run this race of life. The Apostle Paul summed it up this way in Philippians 1:21, “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Whether we live or die…we win! It is a great season ahead. As we enjoy the games, we will win some and lose some, but in our hearts we will always be able to say that in Christ we are winners. Dr. Larry Bryars is the Lead Pastor at Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church on Atlanta Highway in Montgomery, Alabama. He has served in the Alabama-West Florida Conference for over 37 years. He and his wife, Vicki, have three sons and one grandson.

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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 Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

October 2016

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Married for God by Christopher Ash

It’s not like we’re hurting for books on marriage. In fact, there may be more Christian books on marriage than on any topic besides prayer. This means that any new book has to be awfully good to stand out from an already-crowded field. It was pure joy, then, to read Christopher Ash’s Married for God: Making Your Marriage the Best It Can Be and see it do exactly that. It is one of the very best books on marriage I have ever read—and I’ve read a lot of them. First published in the U.K. in 2007, Married for God has only just made its way across the Atlantic thanks to Crossway. Ash, who serves as Writer in Residence at Tyndale House in Cambridge, describes his book simply: It’s “a straightforward account of what the Bible teaches about marriage.” He offers it for consideration in a variety of contexts: for individuals who wish to use it for private study, for engaged couples preparing for marriage, for married couples interested in an informal marriage refresher, or for churches to use as the foundation for a brief course on marriage. Many marriage books focus on the how questions. How can we have better communication? How can we grow in our ability to resolve conflict? How can we have better sex? Others focus on the what questions. What is marriage? What are its boundaries? What kind of people may participate in it? Ash, though, chooses to focus first and primarily on the why questions, for “If we get our aims clear, then we shall see why marriage has to be what it is, and we will be well placed to see how to build a strong marriage.” He grounds his book on this foundational statement: “We ought to want what God wants in marriage. Or, to put it another way, God’s why matters more than my why.” If this is the case, “You and I need to ask God what he wants and then line up our goals behind his, rather than expecting him to line up his River Region’s Journey

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goals behind ours.” Marriage at its best is marriage that is aligned with God’s purposes. The first chapter is dedicated to baggage and grace. None of us comes into marriage without some kind of background, some kind of baggage. We each have our unique histories “of sexual experience or inexperience; of hopes realized or deferred; of longings or aversions; of fulfillment or frustration; of fears, anxieties, delights, regrets. What we have done or not done, how we have been treated or mistreated by others: all these things shape what we believe.” Those who carry baggage need grace to deal with it, for “Unless we understand grace, we will misunderstand all the Bible’s teaching about sex and marriage.” Thankfully the Bible speaks to those whose pasts are spoiled or ruined, and it speaks equally to those convinced they enter marriage utterly pure and undefiled. “Never forget that [the Bible] speaks to those with spoiled and damaged histories, to whom Jesus Christ offers forgiveness and restoration, and never forget that by his grace God can turn a spoiled life into a life of growing purity, which will be perfected when he gives us resurrection bodies at the end.” As he turns to marriage itself, Ash outlines the three traditional purposes for marriage: Children rather than barrenness, faithfulness rather than selfishness, and order rather than chaos. The heart of the book is a chapter-length examination of each. But before he can do that, he exposes one too-common teaching as wrong and destructive: Marriage as the answer to loneliness. No, “marriage is not God’s answer for loneliness. Indeed, marriage is not God’s provision to meet your or my needs. We would like to think that it is. But God has bigger purposes in the world than meeting our needs.” If we believe marriage is about loneliness, we believe that ultimately it exists for us, for the meeting of our deep needs. But the Bible tells us that marriage exists for God—so we can serve God in and through it. Ash describes marriage as 6

“sex in the service of God.” By “sex” he does not mean merely the act of sexual intercourse, but the whole relationship and intimacy it typifies. Sex is the most distinctive component of marriage and, in that way, an apt summary of the whole thing. He then dedicates one chapter to each of marriage’s main purposes—procreation as a means to creating more people to carry out God’s will on earth, sex and intimacy as a means of displaying God’s love and faithfulness for his bride, and marriage as an institution to bring order from the chaos of society. He includes a chapter on God’s plan in singleness and one on the heart of marriage, showing that “the heart of marriage is faithfulness,” the kind of covenant faithfulness we see God displaying from Genesis 1 to Revelation 22. By the end, he has done exactly what he set out to do: He has offered a challenging, straightforward, deeply-biblical, and counter-cultural description of the purposes of marriage, the challenges of marriage, and the joys of marriage. As Ash begins his book he tells who may benefit by reading it: If you are engaged, I hope this book will help you prepare for marriage. I hope you will find here Bible teaching to consider together as a couple that will shape your hopes and expectations in a healthy way. If you are in the first few years of marriage (or even later), I hope this book will help you lay foundations for a good marriage. Whether you received good marriage preparation or none, I hope this presentation of the Bible’s teaching will challenge and refresh you both. If you are single and wondering whether to get married, I hope you will find here clear Bible teaching about what marriage is, and—more important—what is the point and purpose of marriage. If you are single and disappointed, because the opportunity for marriage has not (or not yet) come your way, I hope that you too will find here some comfort and encouragement to live your present unmarried life wholeheartedly and joyfully for Christ. And, for that matter, if you have no intention of being married, this book may help you understand and encourage those who are. (Italics added.) By my assessment, Married for God succeeds in each of these ways and will prove a blessing to each of these people. I will go ahead and recommend it in every way. It really is among the very best books on marriage.

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River Region’s Journey

Prattville Christian Academy to Host Superhero 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run

Friendship Mission Benefit Dinner and Silent Auction

Calling all superheroes! Prattville Christian Academy’s Panther Prowl 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run is a superhero themed event for 2016. This year’s run will feature huge registration discounts for our favorite superheroes, the River Region’s first responders as well as costume contests, games, giveaways, emergency vehicle exhibit and more! The Panther Prowl is an annual event that benefits PCA’s Annual Fund. The PCA Annual Fund supports educational enhancements that positively impact all students. Saturday, October 22 | 7 a.m. | PCA Campus 5K: $25; First Responder Entry Fee: $5; 1-Mile Fun Run: $15 First Responder Entry Fee: $5 The 5K will feature some of comic history’s most evil villains and you just might get to experience the ultimate good versus evil dual during your run. After the run, there will be refreshments, activities and the chance to thank many of Prattville’s “superheroes” during their display of emergency service vehicles. To learn more or register, please visit prattvillechristianacademy. org/panther-prowl. You may also like the event’s Facebook page at facebook.com/PCAPantherProwl.

Friendship Mission Inc. is a non-profit organization that operates two homeless shelters and serves meals daily for those in need in the River Region. The men’s shelter and meal kitchen is located on the Mobile Highway, and the women’s and children’s shelter is located on Chisholm Street. On October 25, 2016 Friendship Mission will host its inaugural Benefit Dinner & Silent Auction. The funds raised from this year’s event will be used towards case managers’ salaries to insure continued support of the residents in becoming self-sustainable. The event will be held at the Landmark Church Life Center and the keynote speaker will be Mike Kolen, former Auburn and Miami Dolphin football player and author of The Greatest Team: A Playbook for Champions. Tickets are available by calling 334-356-6412.

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Ryan’s Run 5K Show Your Team Spirit!

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Saturday, November 26, 2016 8:00 AM 5K 9:00 AM 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk For info call 334-356-1986 after 6PM, or email ryansrun5k@gmail.com. Kick-off your college football rivalry weekend and join us for our 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk. Show your team spirit and wear your favorite team colors! Day of Race Registration and Packet Pick-up begins at 6:30 AM. Where: Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church (in back of the JEMAC) 6000 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery Race Information: This event is being held in memory of Ryan Colburn, who was an avid sports fan, and especially loved this time of year & the Iron Bowl Rivalry. Proceeds will go to support The Frazer Youth Worship Arts Program & also The Ryan Colburn Youth Scholarship which will support youth with disabilities to attend the national Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs Annual Conference. Registration is also available online at www. runsignup.com and Like us on Facebook.

Email ministry or church news to

deanne@readjourney magazine.com.

Lighthouse Camp Meeting Lighthouse Church celebrates 34 years of ministry this October with a great Camp Meeting, October 14th - 16th. Ministering to us will be Rev. Matthew Kirkland, Mark Kirkland and the U51 Band, Rev. Tim Riggs, John Michael and Lindsay Mohney, Rev. Myron Price and the Lighthouse Praise Team. Friday and Saturday services begin at 6:30 p.m. and Sunday’s anniversary service will begin at 10:00 a.m. Come Celebrate with us at Lighthouse Church, 3560 Bell Road, Montgomery, AL 36116. For more information call (334) 271-4200. 9

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River Region Judgment House Presents Christian Alternative to Haunted House River Region Judgment House, a Christian alternative to a haunted house, presents a guided tour examining the effects of a devastating event on the lives of its characters, some of whom experience death and the afterlife. This year’s River Region Judgment House will begin on Wednesday, October 12th and continue on selected nights through Monday, October 31st in the Montgomery Towne Center, located at the intersection of the Eastern Bypass and Troy Highway in Montgomery. Judgment House is supported by a number of area churches, and we are currently inviting churches and individuals to be involved in various areas of the presentation, including prayer, acting, counseling, and other volunteer opportunities. The last 4 years, over 12,000 people have attended Judgment House, with close to 2,000 registered decisions for Jesus Christ. To volunteer to be involved or to make reservations, go to JudgmentHouse. org or call 334.546.8088. Pictured: One of the leadership team members for the River Region Judgment House, Josh Henderson, who also serves as a guide, addresses one of the groups walking through the presentation.

F U M C C H I L D R E N ’ S M I N I S T RY ’ S

OCTOBER 23 } { SUNDAY, 4:00-5:30 p.m.

North Parking Lot (next to the playground)

First United

Trunk-or-Treat (4:30-5:00) Live Music • Horse Drawn Hayride • Giant Inflatable Face/Hand Painting • Guess How Many Cupcake Walk • Candy Corn Bowling and more!

METHODIST CHURCH

Happy costumes are welcome!

2 4 1 6 W. C l o v e r d a l e P a r k M o n t g o m e r y, A L 3 6 1 0 6 3 3 4 . 8 3 4 . 8 9 9 0 w w w. f u m c m o n t g o m e r y. o r g River Region’s Journey

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First UMC Montgomery Hosted Fair in the Park

Bend Me, Oh Lord Women’s Teaching

First United Methodist’s inaugural Fair in the Park, presented by the Sacred Arts Ministry, took place Saturday, August 27th from 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. in Cloverdale Park. The Sacred Arts Series (formerly known as the Religious Arts Festival) will this year celebrate the Soul of the South. At the Fair, for which there was no charge to attend, people were invited sample the culinary prowess of multiple local chefs in the form of BBQ chicken, ribs, sliders, and even cornbread chicken salad sandwiches! A slew of local artisans were set up to share a close-up look at their various trades, including pottery, wood-carving, stonecarving, quilting, knitting, spinning, needlepoint and prayer shawl crafting. In aptly-named “Beekeepers’ Corner,” fairgoers could sample multiple variations of honey, and get a look at some featured beekeeping equipment. Children could participate in games, including a watermelon seed spitting contest. The colorful live oil painting of the Fair, created on-site by Barbara Davis during the event, is a sight to be seen. Musical presentations from the Perfect Fifth, Whistle Stop Pickers, and FUMC’s own Cathedral Choir rounded out the day to make Saturday’s Fair in the Park an enjoyable and well-attended event.

His Vessel Ministries is hosting a special teaching event October 28-29, 2016, at the Vessel Room located in the Historic Union Station in downtown Montgomery, Alabama. The teaching will be conducted by Jo Hancock and a calling to the Church to humility, repentance and revival. Bend Me Oh Lord will begin Friday, October 28 at 7:00 p.m. and will conclude with a Saturday session from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. For information, e-mail info@hisvessel.org or call 334-356-4478. Visit our website at www.hisvessel.org.

Healing Service at Frazer UMC

Come and celebrate a traditional service of holy communion and prayers for healing. You can offer prayers for a friend, family member or yourself. Sunday, October 9 in the Frazer UMC Sanctuary, 6-7pm. 6000 Atlant Highway in Montgomery

Hall Memorial CME Church Men’s Day Celebration Seibles Road, Montgomery, Rev. Richard Carter, Pastor Sunday, October 9, 2016 at 2 pm Guest Speaker: Rev. Donald Craig, pastor of St. Paul CME Church, Gordonville, AL Dinner will be served. For more information please contact Bro. James Barnett, Chairperson (334) 430-3243.

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ship. Although I don’t profess to be perfect, God’s word is perfect and He is always willing to forgive my transgressions. I have stumbled a lot in my walk, but I remind myself that a righteous man falls seven times, and rises again. RRJ: When we first talked you spoke about having a “Why” for your life. I know you have many “Why’s”, but one is serving special needs families in Montgomery County as the Montgomery Public Schools Director of Special Education. This was a calling you felt from a young age. How does your faith in Christ intersect with this “why”?

RRJ: Even though you were exposed to Christ as a young child, late in high school God began speaking into your heart that He wanted a deeper relationship with you. How did that happen and how did you respond? Katrina: I grew up in a very ritual-based church, also attending that church’s school from kindergarten through 9th grade. I practiced those rituals “religiously”, but felt God was calling me in a different direction. So, the summer after I graduated from high school, I was baptized and began attending a new church. It was then that I felt I could truly be expressive with my faith. As I studied the Bible, I realized Christ and the unwavering word of God was all that mattered. I had a relationship and not a religion! RRJ: How did your new, deeper “relationship” change the way you lived? Katrina: My new, deeper relationship with God caused me to examine how I responded to life’s situations every day. I began and ended my day with prayer, praise and worRiver Region’s Journey

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Katrina: I have always had a desire to help people. I initially thought I would pursue a field in physical therapy, but instead I received a B.S. in Recreational Therapy. From there I received a M.Ed. in Special Education, and I sincerely believe I have found my calling. Working with special needs students has been a humbling and rewarding experience. I believe in my current position, I have a duty and responsibility to affect positive changes in their lives. Whenever I feel overwhelmed in my administrative duties, I go visit a special needs class and interact with those students. These interactions remind me of my “why”. I am so grateful to have such an awesome opportunity to pour into the lives of these children in a way that, hopefully, makes their lives better. I am honored to serve them. The Bible reminds us that whatsoever we do to the least of His people, we do unto Christ Himself. RRJ: Your work reveals that real life isn’t always easy and comfortable. Everyone goes through trials and heartbrokenness on some level. How has your faith led you through trials and what affect did they have on your faith? Katrina: Life has not always been easy. I have experienced heartache and disappointment in many instances throughout my life. Most recently, after 18 years of marriage, I found myself divorced. Although it was a devastating life event, through my faith, I have endured and in many ways have become stronger. Initially, I was angry...at myself, my ex-husband, maybe even at God. But I realized that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose. I began to open 12

my heart to forgiveness. It was a process, but throughout this journey, my faith has increased and I believe I am a better person because of this experience. I can use my testimony to help other women realize there is an abundant life waiting for them after divorce. Healing is a process and it takes time, but it returns if we just have faith. RRJ: What’s a verse or passage that God has used to encourage you to rely on Him?

Katrina: There are many Bible verses that encourage me; however, the one I constantly recite is Psalms 138:8, “The LORD will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O LORD, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands. RRJ: Besides meditating on God’s Word and prayer what other Christian resources have you found to be crucial for living out your faith 24/7? Katrina: Fellowshipping with other believers of Christ has been a vital piece in living out my faith. Sharing the word of God with others and encouraging each other through life’s trials blesses me. I also believe in attending Christian support groups. One group that really helped me as I initially struggled during my divorce was the Divorce Care group at Frazer Memorial UMC. It was very therapeutic, yet encouraging, to share my story and learn from others. Praying for each other weekly was very uplifting. God’s word is very powerful and I am so grateful to have had positive people in my life to remind me of that. RRJ: For Christians who struggle to live their faith beyond the church walls, what encouragement would you give them? Katrina: Standing on the word of God and His promises is the best advice I could give anyone. Pray without ceasing and just know that the effectual fervent prayers of the righteous avails much. Katrina was born and raised in Montgomery. She graduated Sidney Lanier in 1991, ASU in 1995 with a BS in Therapeutic Recreation, and Auburn University Montgomery in 2009 with an Ed.S. in Instructional Leadership and Administration. She has been employed with MPS for 17 years. Katrina is the mother of two teenage sons, Corey (19) and Nickolas (14).

Reason #14 to Live Life Smiling with us: We enjoy serving others and love to get our patients involved!

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2600 Bell Road • Montgomery, Alabama • 334.277.6690 460 McQueen Smith Road • Prattville, Alabama • 334.358.6411 www. SmilesFromUs.com Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. J. David Stanley • Dr. R. Davis Denney • Dr. Robert H. Owen 13

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Offense Against the “Almighty” Can You Afford It? In 2014, the movie “God’s Not Dead” was released. The movie’s lead character was Josh Wheaton, an evangelical college student. He enrolled in a philosophy class taught by Professor Jeffrey Radisson, an atheist. Radisson demanded that students sign a declaration that “God is dead” in order to pass the course. Josh is the only student who refuses to sign. The professor required Josh to debate the subject of whether God was dead or not with him. He also agreed to let the class members decide the winner. Radisson gave twenty minutes at the end of the first three lecture sessions to debate. Josh did well in the first two. During the final debate, Josh posed a question to Radisson: “Why do you hate God?” Josh repeated the question two more times. The professor exploded in rage, confirming he hated God because, despite his prayers, his mother died and left him alone. The student asked Radisson how he could hate someone that did not exist. Another student stood up and declared “God’s Not Dead.” Most of the other students stood up with Josh. Defeated, Radisson finally left the room. What was Professor Radisson’s problem? He had prayed to God to heal his mother, and yet his mother had died. He felt God River Region’s Journey

October 2016

agenda is to create havoc through stealing the good that God has planned, killing the hopes and faith we have, and destroying each of our destinies. At the same time accusing God to our hearts.

3. The wickedness in men’s hearts

had failed to heal, and the pain in his soul eventually led to an intense rage against God Almighty. He held an offense against God. Can you identify with this story? Maybe you also believed God to heal a loved one and despite all your fasting and prayer that person died. You may be a victim of a gang rape, wondering why God never stopped the perpetrators. Maybe you have wondered where God was when your house was robbed. I get asked this question often: If God is a loving God why does He allow so much evil in this world? First, I want to assure you, God is good! He only wants what is good for His children. So what are some of the reasons for the horrific events that happen in life?

1. Cause-and-Effect Some of what we blame God for may be the consequence of our bad choices. But God is such a good Father He can and will turn those misfortunes to benefit us. We must learn to turn our failures over to Him instead of blaming Him.

2. Direct attack from the enemy “But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short.” (Rev. 12:12b NIV). Satan’s 14

Through the fall of Adam sin has passed down through the generations, the heart of man had become dark and wicked. Mark 7:21 (KJV) says, “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders…” We hurt each other through our wicked hearts. God is never responsible for evil. If you are offended at God, you might want to reconsider your stance. When Job complained against the Almighty, the divine response was deafening, “Who are you to question my wisdom with your ignorant, empty words? Now stand up straight and answer the questions I ask you. Were you there when I made the world? If you know so much, tell me about it. Who decided how large it would be? Job, have you ever in all your life commanded a day to dawn?” (Job 38:2-12 – GNTA). If God had said this to me, it would have made me shut up! It is amazing that even if we have an offense against God, He still offers to heal and establish us. If we are open and our hearts are soft and teachable, He can give us a new perspective – His perspective that far outweighs frail human thoughts. After all, He is our “Redeemer.” This means He can create good out of the worst possible situations. He redeemed people and situations repeatedly throughout the Bible. And He can do it for you and me. Trade in your offense for a new perspective, a God perspective, and watch your Redeemer work.

Blessed is he who is not offended in me. -Jesus

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Sunday Morning Small Groups - 9:15 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m.

7505 Wares Ferry Road Montgomery, Alabama 36117 334.396.9811 15

October 2016

River Regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Journey easternoaks.org

Oct 2016 A

O Aliens and Strangers In the Book of Exodus there are dozens of commandments. One that catches my attention is Exodus 22:21, “Do not mistreat an alien or oppress him for you were aliens in Egypt” (NIV). Have you ever felt like an alien? If you travel much at all, you know the feeling of being a “stranger in a strange land.” In July, 1991 my ten-year-old son, Andrew, and I spent two weeks in Warsaw, Poland. Andrew was attending a children’s chess tournament. I was his chaperone. It became legal for Americans to enter Poland only three weeks before we arrived. The Berlin Wall was torn down two years

River Region’s Journey

October 2016

earlier, but the Soviet Union was still around for a few more months. The sight of visitors from the West seemed to create an uneasiness among Warsaw citizens. About 150 kids from around the world competed in ten four-hour rounds of chess. The games were held each weekday in a sporting arena in downtown Warsaw. Each afternoon the children and parents took shuttle buses to a dormitory in Praga, a town across the Vistula River. Two weeks is a long time to watch chess. After a week, several of us chose to let the shuttle go on back without us, while we explored the city. Usually we took a taxi or streetcar back to Praga. One day Andrew and I decided to venture out on our own and take the city bus. My big mistake was getting off at the first stop after we crossed the river. Praga turned out to be much bigger than I thought. As we stepped off and the bus drove away, I realized that our dorm was still miles away. We had little Polish money (zlotys), no more bus tickets, and did not know any of the language. We were stuck. No one we had met in Warsaw spoke English to us, except some university students. After wandering around the bus stop for a few minutes, I admitted to my son that I 16

was totally baffled. Andrew said, “I think it’s time to pray.” He was right. We prayed. A few minutes later a lady’s voice said, “Do you need help?” At first we didn’t see anyone. Then we saw a mother and two small children come up the steps from the river. The boy and girl were wearing wet swimsuits and towels. The lady introduced herself as an English teacher from the local school. We explained our plight. She gave us two bus tickets and the three of them boarded the next bus with us. We parted ways at the end of the line, a few blocks from our dorm. I tried to pay the lady in dollars. She said no, but asked if I would send her class a few postcards from Alabama. I was stunned at her kindness and overcome with gratitude. Andrew did not seem surprised. After all, we had prayed, hadn’t we? As years have gone by I have thought of that lady’s kindness. She had nothing to gain from helping us. She could have ignored us, taken the next bus, and left us there. But she had a servant’s heart. The actions of that teacher remind me of Jesus’ parable of the sheep and goats “when the Son of Man comes in his glory.” Matthew 25:37 – 40 quotes Jesus as saying: “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you? The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me’” (NIV). It is not popular right now to show kindness to refugees from other countries. They are different from us. But the Lord calls us to be compassionate to everyone, especially strangers and aliens. They cannot pay us back for our help. But be assured, the Master will return and His reward will be with Him. What will He say of us?

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Oct 2016 Appreciate Pastors ad.qxp_Layout 1 9/22/16 12:35 PM Page 1

OCTOBER IS

Pastor and Staff Appreciation Month!

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Faith Radio encourages you to show affirmation to your church leaders .1 WLBF during Pastor and Staff Appreciation FM Montgomery Month. We have some tools and ideas for you! Visit our website for more details, and let us send an appreciation card for you!

800.239.8900 | www.faithradio.org 17

October 2016

River Region’s Journey

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“We haven’t celebrated Halloween for years but as my kids get older, they seem disgruntled as October

for religious or other reasons, it is pos-

31st draws near. I don’t know how to

sible to divert their attention away from

manage the holiday anymore.” The

ghosts, goblins and haunted houses

comment from my friend, Lois, didn’t

and celebrate in other ways. Here are

surprise me. As kids move through

a few suggestions.

elementary school and hear about the fun their friends have on Halloween,

Turn the focus to the beauty of a season worth celebrating, not just a holiday.

they naturally question why they can’t take part in the celebration.

Ask your kids what their favorite part of the fall season is. Maybe it’s decorating the house, baking fall cookies together, or tromping through the leaves on a nature hike. Commit to a week of celebrating the fall season to promote an excitement that diverts attention from a particular day.

If your family has made the decision not to celebrate the holiday, whether River Region’s Journey

October 2016

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Create a neighborhood game night. Instead of trick or treating with the neighbors, invite them to your house for an evening of games, crafts, and snacks. Light a fire in the fireplace and have apple cider hot on the stove. Ask others to help with homemade snacks and fall treats.

Consider the money saved from not buying costumes and candy, and spend a night on the town doing what your kids most enjoy. Maybe it becomes a movie night or a bowling night. Gain input from your kids on what’s fun for them and hit the town. Talk about it weeks in advance so they know there is a fun activity to look forward to on October 31st.

Find like-minded friends and spend the evening together. Whether it’s a boisterous hayride with friends or a picnic at the local park, gathering other families provides more fun for the kids. Ask your friends in advance if they’d like to skip Halloween and make plans together away from the house.

Turn out the porch light and migrate to the back yard with a blazing campfire.

Gather supplies for s’mores and meet outside around the fire. Ask your kids to share their favorite stories of family time or simply gaze at the stars together and listen to the sounds of nature.

Find a Fall Festival to attend at a local church. Fall festivals are a popular way to spend Halloween without promoting the holiday. Check out the Fall Festivals Guide following this article for one close by that includes activities your kids would enjoy, such as inflatable bounce houses, face painting, and bobbing for apples. When you choose not to celebrate, friends and family often ask for an explanation. No need to justify your decision with an answer that invokes conflict. When we model healthy responses, we teach our kids the value of open and honest communication and prevent them from getting trapped in a web of negativity about the holiday. Here are easy explanations to consider: “We prefer celebrating the beauty of the fall season over several days with family and friends, rather than a one-night occurrence in the neighborhood” or “Although we don’t judge others who choose to celebrate Halloween, as Christians, we don’t feel comfortable celebrating a holiday with pagan roots.” There’s no need to dread the end of October and wish away the beauty of fall to get to November 1st. Find the perfect way to celebrate the magnificence of the season with the fit that matches your family. Gayla Grace writes on family and stepfamily issues with a heart to encourage stable homes. She holds a master’s degree in Psychology and Counseling, lives in the South with her husband of 20 years, and is a mom and stepmom to five children. 19

October 2016

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Angel Fest October 15 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. St. Michael and All angels Church, 5941 Main Street, Millbrook Join the fun at the annual Angel Fest at St. Michael’s. Shop unique arts and crafts, the bake sale and our silent auction. There will be live entertainment, a children’s carnival, concessions and a Boston Butt sale. All proceeds go to help others in the Millbrook and West Elmore County Communities. For vendor information or to pre-order Boston butts call the church office at (334) 285.3905 or visit stmichaleandallangels.com/angel-fest/

Fall Festival at Alabama Christian Academy ad on page 8 & Inside Back Cover

Thursday, November 10th tentatively from 3:00-6:00 p.m. Inflatables, Pony rides, games and more. They will have a silent auction and Country Kitchen, chili cook off and photo booth. Each class sponsors games for children of all ages. Concessions will be available. Admission is $5. Please call 277.1985 ext. 221 for more information.

Fall Festival Aldersgate UMC Sunday, October 30th, Time TBA 6610 Vaughn Road River Region’s Journey

October 2016

Trunk or Treat, games, prizes, crafts, hayride, inflatables. A fun-filled family night open to everyone free of charge. Call 272.6152.

Hot dogs, hamburgers, cotton candy and drinks available for purchase. For more information, call 269.4362, ext. 241 or 252. Visit www.campchandler.org

Blue Ridge Baptist Church

Annual Family Fall Festival Dalraida Baptist Church

4471 Jasmine Hill Road in Wetumpka Sunday, October 30 from 3p.m. until 5 p.m. A hotdog and chili supper. Trunk or Treat, bouncy houses, fun, games and crafts. Friendly costumes are welcome. Come celebrate this beautiful season God has given us. Please call at 567.4325 for more information.

Camellia Baptist Church Monday, October 31st from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 201 Woodvale Rd, Prattville Lots of games, food, candy and a lifechanging message. Free admission. Games for ages preschool – 6. No scary costumes. Bring your family and Friends. Call 365.0755.

Halloween Carnival Camp Chandler Saturday, October 22, 5-8 p.m. Camp Chandler is located just off U.S. 231 North in Wetumpka on Lake Jordan. Hayrides, carnival games, trick or treating and cake walk will all be part of the fun. Cost is $5 per child. Parents free. Proceeds go to the camper scholarship fund. 20

Sunday, October 30, 5:00 until 7:30 p.m. 3838 Wares Ferry Road Games, Prizes, Food, Hayride, Inflatables and More! Please Call 272.2412.

Fall Festival / Trunk or Treat Dalraida UMC October 29, 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. 3817 Atlanta Highway Games, food, prizes, costume contest and other surprises. Please Call 272.2190.

Family Fun Fall Festival East Memorial Baptist Church Monday, October 31st, 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. 1320 Old Ridge Road, Prattville, AL Games, Candy, Balloon Animals, and all sorts of fun for the whole family! FREE!! For more info call 334.365.7500 or visit us at www.eastmemorial.org.

Eastmont Baptist Church Trunk or Treat Sunday, October 30 4-6 pm in the front parking lot of Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Highway.

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Bring your little super heroes, princesses, pirates and cowgirls for a FREE, fun and safe alternative to trick-or-treating. Visit www.eastmont.org for more info or call 277-6300.

Fall Festival First Baptist Church Prattville ad on page 5

Sunday, October 30, 4:00–6:00 p.m. Preschool-Sixth Grade 138 South Washington Street Games, Rides and Prizes! Free admission, popcorn and cotton candy! Happy costumes please. For more information visit fbcprattville.org or call 365-0606.

First Baptist Church Fall Family Festival ad on Back Cover

305 South Perry Street Sunday, October 30, 4:00-6:00 p.m. Honoring our Community Servants Fire truck, police vehicle will be there. Event is free. Food offered for $3 for one person. Games, Fun and prizes. For more information, call 834.6310.

Pumpkinfest First UMC, Montgomery ad on page 10

Sunday, October 23, 4 p.m. 2416 W. Cloverdale Park For children of all ages - Front lawn of the church. Fun, games, horse-drawn hayride, moonwalk, refreshments and more! Happy costumes are welcome! Come join the fun! In the event of rain, the Pumpkinfest will be moved indoors. For children age toddler through 3rd grade! Call 834.8990. Also, FUMC Fall Bazaar 2016 Wednesday, October 5th from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. Luncheon $12 | 12:00-1:00 p.m. Fellowship Hall Shopping & Silent Auction 1:00-7:00 p.m. Wesley Hall  Baked Goods • Frozen Foods • Garden Treasures • Gifts & Crafts • Kid’s Closet • Nice as New Red’s Little School House Bbq Dinner $10 | 5:00-7:00 p.m., Park Avenue Parking Lot  Kid’s Chicken Finger Meal: $5 Please call 834.8990 for more information. Tickets can be purchased for $10 by calling the church.

First UMC, Wetumpka Trunk or Treat Sunday, October 30, from 4-6 p.m. 306 W. Tuskeena Street Contest, games, concessions, inflatables, cake-walk, dunking booth and treats for all ages. Parents are encouraged to attend with child. Call 567.7865, visit www.fumcwetumpka.com.

Fall Family Festival Gateway Baptist Church ad on page 5

Monday, October 31st, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 3300 Bell Road Free admission. Popcorn, Cotton candy, snow cones, Games and Trunk or treat. Little bit of something for everyone. Call 272.9494 for more information.

Trunk or Treat Fall Carnival Harvest Family Church Saturday, October 29th, 4 -5:30 p.m. 7245 Copperfield Drive All superheroes, princesses and minions (and their families!) are invited to stuff their bags with candy and enjoy fun games at a FREE carnival presented by the folks at Harvest Family Church in the Copperfield

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River Region’s Journey

community. FREE hotdogs will be provided (while they last) and a TV will be showing football for those who just can’t pull away! For more info: (334) 277-1156| or www.harvestfamilychurch.com.

Fall Festival Heritage Baptist Church ad on page 21

October 30th from 2 until 4 p.m. 1849 Perry Hill Road Inflatables, Trunk A Treat, Music & More Free Admission. Concessions Available Call 279.9976.

Judgment House ad on Back Cover

4003 Eastern Blvd. (Montgomery Towne Center) October 12, 15-16, 19, 22-23, 2631 from 6-9 p.m. The ministry of Judgment House spans over 29 years with its roots tied to Montgomery. River Region Judgement House is a God centered drama which focuses on the triumphs and tragedies faced in the lives of today’s youth and young adults. All aspects of this ministry are based on Biblical principles and teachings. Please visit us at www.judgmenthouse.org

Trunk or Treat Mulder United Methodist Church

Trunk or Treat Saint James UMC

Monday, October 31 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. 3454 Firetower Road, Wetumpka Fun for the whole family. There will be inflatables, games, trunks of treats, hayrides, face painting, live music and more. No scary costumes please. For more info call 567.4225.

Sunday, October 30, 5 to 6:30 p.m. 9045 Vaughn Road Parking lot at back of church. Hayride, inflatables, games, candy and much more! Wear your costume but please nothing scary. For more info, call Jennifer at 277.3037.

New Testament Christian Center’s Annual Fall Festival 10300 Highway 80 East (next to Jenkins Brick Company and Buck Masters) Saturday, October 22 at 2 p.m. We will have Hay Rides, Games, Food, Inflatables and much more. For more information please call 215.7215 or call Ms. McCall at 717.9009.

Harvest Revival Ridgecrest Baptist Church Saturday, October 29 at 6 p.m. 5260 Vaughn Rd For more info call 277.0011

Taylor Road Treats the Town Taylor Road Baptist Church Saturday, October 30th and Monday, October 31st. Gates open at 6-8 p.m. 1685 Taylor Road FREE FOOD! Hot dogs, drinks, popcorn, peanuts, cookies, candy, games, hayrides, family pictures. Family Atmosphere. NO scary costumes please. Call 271.3363.

Fall Festival Thorington Road Baptist Church Sunday, October 9th, 3p.m. – 5 p.m. 450 Ray Thorington Road Come join us for Inflatables, games, and fun for the entire family. Free! Rain or shine! Call 396.9376.

PHYSICIANS TO CHILDREN

welcomes

DR. KAREN DOLES Now accepting new patients ages newborn to 18 years

PH Y S IC IAN S TO C H ILDR E N Taylor Medical Complex 470 Taylor Rd, Suite 210 Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 293-5033

PHYSICIANS TO CHILDREN ChildrensAL.org/physicianstochildren

River Region’s Journey

October 2016

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There is a tug of war for the hearts and minds of our children. Here are critical questions E astwood Christian S chool believes every parent should be asking:

K4 / K5 Open House January 12, 2017 / 11:00 a.m.

¥ Do I believe in a quality, classical education provided with a biblical worldview?

New Student Registration (K4-12) January 23, 2017-February 3, 2017

¥ Who is shepherding my child each day, five days a week, and 175 days a year? ¥ What has gone wrong with the product of modern education? ¥ Will those leading my child’s extra-curricular activities be godly, mature, skilled leaders and coaches? ¥ Who are you joining with in the great struggle of developing a Christian mind and heart?

Eastwood Christian School 1701 East Trinity Blvd.

(334) 272-8195

www.eastwoodschool.org Our Headmaster invites you to set an appointment with him.

Eastwood Christian School admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. 23 October 2016 River Region’s Journey

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River Region’s Journey

October 2016

Fourteen years ago a family walked into the office of Dr. Matt Phillips with the look of panic, fear and anger on their faces. A mother, father, teenaged daughter, and a nervous boyfriend entered into his exam room. The father looked at Dr. Phillips and said, “Our daughter took a positive pregnancy test today. I want you to make the final call that she’s pregnant so we can get ourselves to the clinic and “take care of it.” Dr. Phillips responded with grace and authority, calling his nursing staff to prepare for a pregnancy test and ultrasound for this terrified, teenaged girl. The family left Dr. Phillips to get test results and an ultrasound if the pregnancy test was positive. When the family re-entered the exam room with Dr. Phillips, the look of fear and anger had lifted and was replaced with tear filled eyes. “How did everything go?” Dr. Phillips asked. The father replied, “That’s a baby, I just saw a baby.” The family went forward with having the baby, a beautiful baby girl. Just a mere four years later, the same teenaged girl had grown a little more, married her then boyfriend, and they just had their second baby. Dr. Phillips delivered the baby and went out into the lobby to tell the parents the good news of a second grandchild. Walking through the doors of the delivery room, Dr. Phillips saw that once afraid and angry father, holding his four-year-old granddaughter while she giggled and played with his beard. “How do you like her?” Dr. Phillips asked with a grin. The father’s eyes filled with tears, “Oh, Dr. Phillips, I love her, I just love her.”

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According to statistics, 90% of all women who are planning on aborting their babies will change their minds if they see their child through an ultrasound. Dr. Matt Phillips of OB/GYN Associates is passionate about life as he delivers hundreds of babies every year. His heart and work has been invested in his practice, as well as working with women in crisis pregnancy. “Women who change their minds about having an abortion are not automatically saved from the difficulty of raising a child in a difficult circumstance, but once we have met the women, we are able to direct them to the places that are their best resources for help after their delivery,” Dr. Phillips said in an interview. Matt Phillips began realizing how important ultrasounds were in saving a child’s life, but realized he was only able to give a few crisis pregnancy ultrasounds per week, while the Montgomery County abortion clinic is aborting 40 babies per week, only closing on Thanksgiving and Christmas. What was the problem? How could things like this change? Dr. Phillips soon realized that most women who are planning to abort their children are choosing to go straight to the abortion clinic because money, transportation and resources for an ultrasound are too difficult. Most women don’t know where to go, what to do, can’t afford, or don’t have the proper transportation to make the trip.

Our mission is to draw women together to discover God’s truths and directives that are found in the Bible. 1.800.777.0305 (press 2) • realwomen21.com

Real Women 21 st Century 25

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River Region’s Journey

So what if the ultrasound was brought to the woman? That is how Life on Wheels began. A mobile ultrasound unit is the new buzz across the country, and now it is believed that the best way to reach the women is to take the ultrasound to them. This has been going on for many years through a company called ICU Mobile. Mobile units have been an awesome and efficient way to end abortion, but the set back that seems to attack this outreach is how expensive it is to obtain and operate one. Many cities around the country have wanted one for years, but have never had the resources to do so. Dr. Phillips spent about a year researching and looking for different angles on how he could make something like this work in the River Region, but finally felt like it was something he just wouldn’t be able to accomplish. Until one day, Dr. Phillips had a patient come in for an ultrasound with her husband. After resolving that this idea of acquiring a mobile unit was impossible, his patient’s husband asks abruptly, “Why don’t we have a mobile unit in Montgomery?” to which Dr. Phillips replied, “Well, it’s because they’re

expensive, that’s why. How do you expect we can afford one of those?” The husband looked at him and said, “Well, I raise money for Ducks Unlimited, and if I can raise that money for ducks, surely we can match that money for human life. I’ll do your first gala if you put together your board and start the ministry.” It was with that encounter that the excitement and movement began with Life on Wheels. Dr. Phillips began praying, putting together a board, and communicating with ICU Mobile. ICU Mobile unit is known for how well they do ultrasound mobile units. “They do it best,” Dr. Phillips said. With Dr. Phillips mention that he wanted to start a mobile unit in the Montgomery area, ICU Mobile confirmed that their director would actually be in the area, and that the two of them should get together.

Dr. Phillips explains, “Want to talk about how the Lord is moving in this ministry? I would say setting up divine appointments such as this to allow me the opportunity to sit down and speak with this director for three days.” Out of that meeting, a board was officially created and a gala thrown giving the ministry half the cost of the mobile unit. In the midst of putting the ministry together, Dr. Phillips realized how much time it was taking to practice at OB/GYN Associates, work with a local crisis pregnancy center, and start this mobile unit. He knew he needed someone to come on board who would be helpful in making sure all ducks were in a row to get the ministry started. With that need in mind, Dr. Phillips hired Maria Kometer (left). When Maria came

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them before they get to the abortion clinic.” Dr. Phillips (right) spent time driving around Montgomery, figuring out the best places to park the unit where it can be seen and help can be offered. The unit will roll five days a week in an attempt to reach women in crisis pregnancy, hoping to unify the pro life community. The goal is to bring other ministries working in crisis pregnancy to the table to give women multiple options when they choose to move forward with their pregnancy. “We are not picketing or lobbying, we aren’t angry, we are just bold. We plan on just simply changing the mother’s mind about keeping her child,” Phillips said. The Grand Opening Commissioning Ceremony will happen on October 20, 2016, and the start date for the ministry to begin work is October 24, 2016. If you are interested in joining the ministry in

their prayer initiative, you can join their email list of specific needs for prayer as they journey to reach more women in the River Region. If you are interested in volunteering with the Life on Wheels ministry, there is need for bus drivers, pit crew people, and client advocates. The client advocate walks the patient through the process of getting her ultrasound and how to help women after they get their ultrasound. There is an application process for becoming a volunteer because it is very important to have a safe and efficient place for women at such a vulnerable place in life. All information and details can be found at www.lifeonwheelsalabama.com. Laura Bell is a freelance writer, born and raised in Montgomery, Alabama. She enjoys spending time with her husband Cody and finding all reasons to find joy in life!

We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.

New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.

B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS

• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •

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on board, she hit the ground running, putting order to this vision. “At that point, all we had was half the price of the unit and a vision… until Maria came. She has helped make this vision come to life,” Phillips said. The Lord knew what He was doing in Maria Kometer’s life. “Around the time that all the planned parenthood hidden camera videos were hitting social media, my heart and passion for life was growing, and then I got a call about this job opportunity. I knew it was exactly where I needed to be at exactly the right time,” Maria shared in an interview. Maria and Dr. Phillips have been working tirelessly to make this vision come to life. Crisis pregnancy centers are Dr. Phillip’s passion. He believes that the crisis pregnancy center is the place where people are changed, come to know Christ, and turn their lives around, but he wants to reach more people. He believes that this mobile unit is his avenue to do just that. “If I were to explain my vision for this mobile unit in medical terms, I would say the unit is the ambulance that gets the patients to the hospital, which is the crisis pregnancy center. We just to need to get to

Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!

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October 2016

River Region’s Journey

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Adoption

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy and First UMC, Millbrook APAC- Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connection Support Group This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer. For information, call Monica Russell at 409-9477 or email mrussell@childrensaid.org. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., First UMC, Millbrook. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For info, call Hannah Taylor at 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@ childrensaid.org. Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Leaders: Chad & Betsy Emerson (334) 201-5241 Wednesday, 6:30pm in Rm. 116. The Orphan Care Group will focus on God’s call to help orphans through adoption, foster care, and missions work. The group will share experiences, study and Biblical themes regarding orphan care, and provide a support and network.

River Region’s Journey

October 2016

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 @ Bell Road, Corner of Bell Road and Atlanta Hwy. Alcoholics Anonymous and Alanon meetings are held Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, at 6 p.m. An Open AA Speaker meeting is held on Saturday at 6 p.m. An Alanon & AA held on Sundays at 2 p.m.

Location: Grace Point Community Church, 78223 Tallassee Hwy (Hwy 14), Wetumpka Celebrate Recovery- every Tuesday night- 6:15pm. All are welcome! These meetings are a safe and loving environment for individuals seeking to conquer their hurts, habits and hang-ups! gracepoint.info. Location: Journey Church, 2960 East Cobbs Ford Road across from The Catfish House in Millbrook Celebrate Recovery - Christ-centered 12-step for anyone struggling with addiction or life-challenging issues. 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. 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. Location: Trinity Episcopal, Wetumpka (Across from Winn Dixie on HWY 231) Gamblers Anonymous-Saturdays at 7 p.m. Location: First United Methodist Church, Wetumpka 306 W. Tuskeena Street ‘Fresh Start’ Recovery meets every Thursday, 6-8pm (meal included). In 2011, Fresh Start Motorcycle Ministry (FSMM) began when God laid it on the heart of a lifetime biker to

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

Alzheimer’s / Dementia

Location: First UMC, 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, Wesley Hall Bldg. An Adult Parkinson/Alzheimer’s respite ministry meets from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Lunch is served. Contact Daphne at 834-8990. Location: 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. Location: Memorial Presbyterian, 2130 Bell Road A Dementia Morning Out for caregivers is offered each Tuesday from 8:45-noon. There is no charge. Each participant may bring a sack lunch (juice provided). Registration is required by calling 274-1018.

Location: Dalraida Baptist, 3838 Wares Ferry Road. Just for Men -- Faith based cancer support group for men. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the conference center. Please call 272-2412 email stan.hurst@knology.net. Location: ChristChurch, 8800 Vaughn Road Cancer Support Group for general cancer. Tuesday afternoons at 1 pm. For more info, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie at 467-4578. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support Group, providing education, awareness, and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family, and friends, meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in Rm 8253. Call 272-8622 or womenofhope@charter.net. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. The Central Alabama Multiple Myeloma Support Group meets from 10 a.m. to noon the second Saturday of every month in Room 3105. We have guest speakers, video presentations, printed information and a group that welcomes sharing their journey with myeloma in an informal setting. Refreshments are provided.. Contact Lorenzo and Elaine Duncan at 334-281-8158, or at duncan6563@gmail.com.

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.

Cancer

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

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

October 2016

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: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth St, Prattville Grief Share, Tuesday evenings at 6:30 pm in the church parlor. Call 365-5977.

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.

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.

Gambling

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

Grief Location: Eastmont Baptist, 4505 Atlanta Hwy. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child meeting first Tuesdays at 7 pm. Call (334) 284-2721 for info.

River Region’s Journey

October 2016

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: Millbrook FUMC, 3350 Edgewood Rd Grief Share meets Sundays from 5-7 p.m. For more information or to sign up, please call the church office at 285-4114 or email churchoffice@mfumc.org. Location: Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1550 E. Washington Street Grief Ministry is a grief recovery support group that meets every Monday at 6:00 P.M. The ministry is designed to help anyone through the hurt of losing a loved one by successfully traveling the journey from mourning to joy. Alicia Glover is the coordinator. For information contact Glover at 334-281-2754. Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road GriefShare is a support group that meets Wednesdays from 6-8 pm. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. Call 279-5433 for more information.

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

Parenting

Location: First Baptist Prattville, 138 S. Washington Moms LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) meets twice monthly from 8:30 - 11:45 am in the chapel at the Church from Aug May. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guest, special guest speakers and a lot of fun!! Cost is $5 per meeting. For moms of all stages and ages of life. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call April Scott at 828-446-6666. Location: First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Moms, need a little break? MOPS is a place you can share a good meal, make new friends, and find encouragement as you face the everyday challenges of raising your little ones. We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Meetings are every 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.

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Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Frazer mom2mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of ages birth to 5 at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. Email Mom2mom@frazerumc. org for more information. Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Single Moms Support Group, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800. Location: Perry Hill UMC, 910 Perry Hill Road Single Moms’ Care and Support Group meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15 - 8:00 PM. December meeting will be on the 11th. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants -16 years. Call 272-3174. Location: Redland Baptist, 1266 Dozier Rd, Wetumpka A MOPS group will be held 1st and 3rd Tuesday’s of every month during the school year, and has scheduled play dates and moms nights out through the summer and beyond. While moms are in a MOPS meeting, their children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program. Email Denise Braswell at deniseorscott@yahoo.com . Location: 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.

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 information, call 3964534. 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 our website at www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome. com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Please contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail.com for more information.

Same Sex Attraction

Location: Huff Community Ministry Building of First Baptist Church at 305 S. Perry Street Pathway Support Group for those dealing with unwanted same sex attraction. The group meets at 6:30 pm every first, third and fifth Tuesday evenings. For more information about the Pathway call (334) 241-5141 or (334) 241-5140.

Singlehood

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Boundaries study for singles meets each Tuesday from 6-7:30pm in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. This study will help singles learn to set boundaries with emotions and help avoid the harmful behavior of others. For more information, call 495-6386 or email singles@ frazerumc.org. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Single and Parenting! A New Group for Single Mom’s. This group meets every Tuesday from 6-7:30pm for hope & encouragement & guidance & parenting ideas. For information, call 495-6386 or email singles@frazerumc.org. Location: Cornerstone Christian, 301 Dalraida Rd. Unavoidably Single Again (USA) Fellowship, a support group for widows and widowers. Informal meetings for fellowship and fun are held on the third Saturday of each month starting at 10 AM. Contact Lynda at farauthor@aol.com or 354-8869.

Veterans

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets on the 3rd Wednesday from 11am-1pm in Room 3108. Contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.

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

October 2016

River Region’s Journey

Helped Up The Olympic Games in Rio are now history, full of memorable moments and tremendous triumphs. Perhaps one of the most memorable came in a 5,000 meter qualifying event in track and field. American runner Abbey D’Agostino and New Zealander Nikki Hamblin tripped over one another on the track and both fell to the ground. D’Agostino, in a statement quoted on the Christian Today website, said:

corners of globe, embracing their unique cultures, yet all uniting under one celebration of the human body, mind, and spirit. I just keep thinking about how that spirit of unity and peace is stronger than all the global strife we’re bombarded with and saddened by on a daily basis.” The Cru website says that D’Agostino is involved in Athletes in Action, and about a week before the race, said: “God has taken me on an unparalleled journey,” adding, “I

“There was about 2k to go, I was still feeling controlled, and was mentally preparing to focus and maintain contact with the lead group for the final grind...” What happened next set off a truly inspirational series of events. She continued: “Then in a split second, there was a woman on the ground in front of me, I tripped on her, someone behind me tripped on me, and I was on the ground. Although my actions were instinctual at that moment, the only way I can and have rationalized it is that God prepared my heart to respond that way. This whole time here he’s made clear to me that my experience in Rio was going to be about more than my race performance – and as soon as Nikki got up I knew that was it.” Abbey got back on her feet almost immediately, but rather than continuing the race, she stopped to help Hamblin up. They began to run, but then D’Agostino fell again, apparently in severe pain. Hamblin stopped to help. Abbey finished 29th and Nikki was 30th, but they were both allowed to pass through to the final, although D’Agostino’s injuries prevented her from competing. Sports Illustrated reported that both runners were awarded special Olympic medals for their display of sportsmanship. D’Agostino also commented on the community present within the Games: “Since the night of the opening ceremonies, I have been so touched by this -- people from all River Region’s Journey

October 2016

feel like I have learned so much through this spring … there have been a lot of ups and downs. But I would not have been able to learn any of the lessons and I would never have reached such a familiarity and understanding of Christ without the way that it’s happened. It has been a season of waiting and uncertainty as I recover from injuries. That has really exposed to my heart my relationship with running.” Not only did Abbey perform a selfless act on the track, but she was bold to discuss her motivation and call attention to the work of God in her life. There are several takeaways from this Olympic moment: I believe we have to admit that we may have set desired outcomes for our lives, but God has the ultimate control. Sure, Abbey would have liked to have run victoriously in her event, but there was a greater purpose, and her story has been transformed from 32

being perhaps one of multiple Olympic medalists to being one of the subjects in an amazing Olympic storyline, which includes the element of her faith. God has the capacity to transform our story so that He might receive greater glory. The components of service and humility are also key here. Rather than continue to motor down the track, injured as she was, Abbey D’Agostino stopped to serve - she humbled herself before her fellow runner, who, in turn, helped her down the track. We might be so intent on living our lives, going through our daily routines, that we miss opportunities to serve - it’s important that we are attentive to the needs around us. It could be that as our acts of selflessness are seen (not that we serve in order to be seen), as we act in accordance with God’s direction, we may have an open door to testify about the presence of Christ in us. Finally, I would like to add that Scripture teaches the principle of sowing and reaping. Abbey took the step to help Nikki up, then Nikki returned the favor. They sacrificed for one another, but we recognize that in his case, D’Agostino took the first step. When we reach out to others, I believe that it builds spiritual capital, and that when we are in need, we can depend on the Lord to send someone to help us. Our selfishness could in fact short-circuit the work that God wants to do somewhere down the road.

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

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October 2016

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

This solution is justified in a variety of ways. Some of the most common ones heard by friends, family, and counselors are:

Understanding Suicide Someone once said that the only thing we can be sure about in life is change. Even though we work hard to maintain a stable and predictable way of life, some type of change always finds a way to throw us off balance. These changes for some are exhilarating, but for most of us we experience various levels of stress or anxiety. Unfortunately, in recent years one solution to the anxiety and depression associated with unwanted change is on the rise. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2014: 1. Suicide was the tenth leading cause of death overall in the United States. 2. Among females, the suicide rate is highest for those aged 45-64. 3. Among males, the suicide rate is highest for those aged 75 and older. Suicide is not just being chosen by impulsive teenagers and young adults. An alarming number of older and more mature adults have put suicide on the table as a reasonable choice when life changes become overwhelming and an acceptable solution cannot be seen. River Region’s Journey

October 2016

1. “Everyone would be better off without me.” 2. “No one will miss me if I’m gone.” 3. “I can’t live with the “pain” anymore.” Pain is the description used for the unpleasant feelings caused by untreated depression and anxiety. 4. “It would be a relief to not have to deal with all the problems (life changes) I am now faced with.” 5. “I don’t deserve to live.” 6. “I see no hope for my future.” Some people can’t imagine suicide as a reasonable choice. People who have had a family member or close friend commit suicide are at a much higher risk of also choosing to take their life. The idea of suicide has now been added to their list of options. Life is hard. No one would disagree with that. Many of us have, at one time or another have not wanted to be here anymore. A brief escape from the struggles of life can be normal. When that brief escape idea begins to grow into frequent thoughts of dying, paired with a plan to make it happen, you or someone you know has started down a dangerous path. A permanent solution to a temporary problem is a tragic waste of life that leaves family and friends wondering, “Why didn’t they love me enough to stay?” The person feeling suicidal usually cannot see their value but others can. Here are a few suggestions that you or anyone can do that may save a life. 34

1. Ask if they are considering taking their own life. Some indicators may be withdrawal, giving away prized possessions, unnecessary risk-taking, drug/alcohol abuse, or loss of interest in pleasurable activities. 2. If the answer is yes or they have confided in you on their own, listen. Let them tell you their story. Everyone has a personal story that led them to consider suicide. 3. Always take their admission seriously. 4. Lead them to someone who can keep them safe. This could be a competent family member, medical doctor, pastor, or trained counselor. Those of us who are Christians know that we were not created to face the constant and sometimes devastating changes in life alone. Those who do not know about Christ need the hope of God’s promises. Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you.” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Philippians 4:13 For I can do anything through Christ who gives me strength. Romans 8:38-39 And I am convinced that nothing an ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death or life, neither angels or demons, neither our fears for today or our worries about tomorrow. Not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. Debbie Cowell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and works out of our Prattville office. She is a member of the Alabama Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and the American Association of Christian Counselors. Ms. Cowell works with individuals, couples, families, adults, adolescents and children. Debbie’s clinical interests include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, spiritual and identity development, marriage and family counseling, parenting issues, adolescent issues, and child behavior issues.

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October 2016

River Region’s Journey

My wife and I make $100,000 a year combined, and we have about $12,000 in credit card debt. We also owe another $80,000 in student loans, and our kids’ private school education costs $1,000 a month. Is it okay for me to take a loan against my 401(k), which is invested in mutual funds, to clean up the credit card bills?

A. I wouldn’t do that. If your 401(k) is invested in good mutual funds, it’s likely you’ll miss out on some pretty good rates of return. But that’s not the biggest reason this is a bad idea. The biggest reason is that when you leave your company — and you will leave, whether it’s because you get a better job, you get fired, or you die — that loan is considered an early withdrawal. If you don’t repay it within 60 days, you’ll get hammered

River Region’s Journey

October 2016

with a 10 percent penalty plus your tax rate. You could easily lose almost half of what’s in the account. If you want to start paying off debt, my advice is to start doing things to generate extra income and begin living on a tight budget. Grab an extra, part-time job for a while, too, and have a big garage sale. Sell so much stuff the kids think they’re next! You need to work a serious debt-busting plan. The good news is it’s only $12,000. Knocking out the credit card debt won’t be so bad, and with your income, the kids’ school isn’t unreasonable. It’s the $80,000 in student loans that’s killing you. Scrape together and save every penny you can find each month, and put that toward paying off the credit card debt. Then, roll that amount over, add anything else you can come up with, and attack those student loans.

I’m trying to help my elderly mom with her finances. She has no debt and more than $1 million in assets. There was also another $500,000 trust left for her by my dad. With access to all this, does she still need longterm health insurance?

A. Absolutely! She also needs an estate planner immediately. Your parents were far too wise with their money to have your mom end up in a bad situation toward the end of her life. You need to do everything you can to prevent this from happening. In the event she’s unable to take care of herself, long-term care health coverage to take care of nursing home or in-home care is an absolute necessity. The cost of nursing home care can run from $75,000 to $100,000 a year. Your mom is in great shape financially. But just imagine what a prolonged nursing home stay could do to her nest egg. It’s not a pretty thought. When you hit 60, you need long-term care insurance, period. Whether you have $1 million-plus in the bank or not, I strongly recommend it as a wise part of any asset management plan.

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