Gò0dNews
CATOOSA & WALKER
About Us
WRITERS
Beth Penny
Bill Silvers
Dr. Bobby Sneed
Cindy J. Evans
Garrett Nudd
Hayden Lanier
Jamie Peak
Dr. Jeff Dabbs
John Garrod
Katie Loveless
Paula Burgner
Dr. Rob England
Spring M. Fricks
Tammy Madden
SALES
Matthew Ruckman
423-503-1410
Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com
DESIGN
Caleb Prytherch
Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Paula Knipp
423-310-4207
EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR
Sandra Gilmore
Email: articles.goodnews@gmail.com
PUBLISHER
Matthew and Bethany Ruckman
Cell: 423-503-1410
E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com
OFFICE
423-790-5378
WEBSITE goodnewscm.com issuu.com/catoosaga
GoodNews Christian Magazine Catoosa
Hello Friends,
We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
Disclaimer
All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.
Gò0 dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
Work as Worship
by Dr. Jeff Dabbs
For many people, work feels like a necessary evil. It pays the bills, keeps the lights on, and provides a roof over our heads — but it’s not something we often connect to our faith. Monday morning and Sunday morning seem like two entirely different worlds.
Yet the Bible paints a different picture. Work is not separate from worship; it can be worship. Whether we’re in an office, a classroom, a factory, a field, or at home raising children, God designed work to be a way we can and should honor Him.
Before sin entered the world, Adam was given work to do. Genesis 2:15 NASB says, “Then the Lord God took the man and put him into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.” Work was not a punishment — it was part of God’s good design.
Sin later brought toil, frustration, and sweat into the workplace (Genesis 3:17-19), but the idea of work itself was never cursed. Work still carries dignity, purpose, and value because it reflects the creativity and stewardship of God.
Work is actually an act of service. The apostle Paul reminded believers in Colossae, “Whatever you do, do your work heartily as for the Lord rather than for men” (Colossians 3:23 NASB). That verse changes everything. Suddenly, work is no longer about pleasing a boss, earning a paycheck, or climbing a ladder. It becomes an offering to God Himself.
A teacher who prepares lessons with excellence, a nurse who treats patients with compassion, a mechanic who repairs cars with integrity — all are engaging in worship when they do their work for the Lord. Even the hidden, unseen tasks matter. God sees, and He is honored.
When we show up on time, work diligently, and treat others fairly, people notice. Work ethic is not just about productivity; it’s about testimony. Paul told the Thessalonian believers to “work in quiet fashion and eat their own bread” (2 Thessalonians 3:12 NASB). In other words, live responsibly and let your faith show through your daily conduct.
A Christian who is lazy, dishonest, or constantly complaining at work undermines the message of the gospel. But a Christian who works with joy and integrity shines as a light in the workplace.
Work is also a place for ministry. Too often, we think of ministry as something that only happens at church. But most people spend far more hours each week at work than in a sanctuary. That means the workplace may be the greatest mission field of all.
You may not preach a sermon at your desk but you can live one through kindness, patience, and humility. You may not lead a Bible study in the break room but you can be ready to share a word of encouragement, or pray for a coworker in need. God often opens doors for gospel conversations right where we spend our weekdays.
Work doesn’t have to be just a grind. It can be gracefilled. It can be holy. It can be worship. The goal is not perfection in our jobs but faithfulness in our calling.
As Paul wrote: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58 NASB).
The paycheck may fade and the promotions may end, but the eternal impact of work done for God’s glory will last forever.
Dr. Jeff Dabbs is the senior pastor at Spring Creek Baptist Church, Rome, Georgia. He has authored Sunday School material and several books.
for Everyone
The Head of the Serpent
by Hayden Lanier
My family once had a scary experience in our yard. My brother was loading some items in his car and preparing to leave when he almost stepped barefoot on a snake. He saw part of a brown snake's body, while the head and part of the snake’s body were buried in the ground.
We thought this was a harmless snake, so we tried to move it, but then we saw the snake’s head. Lo and behold, it was a copperhead! The “Hershey kiss” pattern was plainly evident once we saw the whole snake. It coiled and hissed menacingly, rearing back its ugly head, and we jumped back in alarm.
Nobody was harmed by these events, but we were a little rattled (no snake pun intended). I realized afterwards that we did not realize what we were dealing with until we saw the head of the snake. This got me thinking, perhaps this is why Genesis 3:15 is worded the way that it is.
After the Fall, when Adam and Eve disobeyed God and sin entered the world, God spoke to the serpent (who we understand to be the devil). He told the serpent that He would put enmity between him and the woman, and between his offspring and her offspring. Then God made a truly interesting declaration: “he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel” (Genesis 3:15 ESV). Many Christians interpret this verse as pointing to Jesus. He is the offspring of the woman who would bruise the serpent’s head, and His heel would be bruised by this serpent.
from the dead, and He delivered the crushing blow to the serpent’s head.
See, the dangerous part of a snake is its head. That’s how snakes bite. The tail and the body can be scary, but it is the head of the snake that holds the power and can inflict damage. Snakes bite and inject venom using their head. When we stumbled across that copperhead, we didn’t know what we were dealing with until we saw its head.
Getting bruised on the heel hurts, but if a snake’s head is bruised, that’s a mortal blow. It will end the life of the
Sure, Satan may have bruised Jesus’ heel. When Jesus suffered and died on the cross, this was no small thing. All the sin of the world was placed on Him, even though He had done no wrong. He was tortured, mocked, and publicly humiliated. The Son of God died. But this was only the bruising of His heel, because three days later Jesus rose
snake, and that is exactly what Jesus’ resurrection did to the devil when Jesus rose from the dead, and proved that He is victorious over death. He showed once and for all that He has silenced the enemies of sin, death, and Hell. Death’s sting and the grave’s victory are no longer anywhere to be found (1 Corinthians 15:55)! Though Satan may have thought he won, his “victory” was short-lived. He only bruised the heel of the Messiah, but Jesus has rendered our enemy powerless by the cross.
Hayden Lanier is a follower of Jesus, a graduate of Shorter University, and he works as an elementary school teacher.
Willow Tree Farms
609 POST OAK ROAD, RINGGOLD, GEORGIA
Willow Tree Farms in Ringgold, GA welcomes you and your loved ones for events at their venue that now boasts two event spaces as of 2025. Both locations on the property include all their beloved outdoor amenities for activities as well as all their outdoor wedding arbor options. The Pavilion holds anywhere from 75 to 150 guests, depending on if you expand the space with their 20ft x 40ft garden party tent. The 609 Indoor Reception Hall can hold up to 300 guests, includes a large built-in bar, two apartments with a catering kitchen and overnight accommodations inside, and a beautiful wrap around porch for first looks, private vows, or a cocktail hour. These event spaces include tables, chairs, and benches along with several add on options of yard games, a propane firepit, and so much more!
Profits made from hosting events go
144-acre
caring for its many animals, and hosting public events for the community to enjoy that often assist local non-profits in fundraising efforts. This venue welcomes aspiring photographers with it's affordable photoshoot passes, as well as free fieldtrips for the local schools, and it's many community building endeavors.
Spring cleaning isn’t just about closets and garages—it’s a mindset. Each year, we open windows, shake out dust, and decide what still deserves space in our lives.
Spring Cleaning Your Finances: How Tidying Up Today Strengthens Your Retirement Plan
Money Matters
Jamie Peak with
• Whether diversification has drifted due to market performance
That same seasonal reset is a powerful metaphor for retirement planning. Just as clutter can hide what’s useful in your home, financial clutter can obscure whether you’re truly prepared for the future you want.
Spring is an ideal time to step back, reassess, and intentionally align your finances with your long-term retirement goals.
Clearing Financial Clutter
Over time, financial lives get messy. Old bank accounts linger, unused credit cards stay open “just in case,” and investment accounts accumulate from previous jobs. Individually, these may seem harmless, but together they create confusion and inefficiency.
Spring cleaning your finances starts with consolidation and organization:
• Closing unused accounts
• Rolling over old employer retirement plans
• Updating account beneficiaries
• Creating a clear inventory of assets and debts
When everything is visible and organized, it’s easier to see whether your retirement savings are on track—or quietly drifting off course.
Rebalancing the Investment “Closet”
A closet full of clothes that no longer fit is surprisingly similar to a portfolio that no longer matches your risk tolerance. Market changes, age, and life events can gradually shift your asset allocation without you realizing it.
Spring is a natural time to review:
• Whether your investments still align with your retirement timeline
• If your portfolio has become too aggressive or too conservative
Rebalancing isn’t about chasing returns—it’s about staying aligned with your plan and protecting progress you’ve already made.
Letting Go of Financial Habits That No Longer Serve You
Spring cleaning requires tough decisions. Keeping everything “just in case” leads to clutter. The same is true financially. Some habits that once made sense—holding excess cash, delaying retirement contributions, or avoiding long-term planning—can become obstacles over time. Letting go creates space for better habits, clearer goals, and more confident decision-making.
Preparing for the “Maintenance” Years
A clean home is easier to maintain, and the same is true for a clean financial plan. Annual reviews reduce the likelihood of costly surprises later—whether it’s tax inefficiency, insufficient savings, or misaligned investments.
Consistent financial maintenance helps:
• Reduce stress as retirement approaches
• Improve confidence in your long-term plan
• Turn retirement from a vague concept into a tangible reality
A Seasonal Habit with Lasting Impact
Spring cleaning is powerful because it’s repeatable. When financial check-ins become a seasonal habit, retirement planning stops feeling intimidating and starts feeling manageable. This spring, as you open windows and clear out physical clutter, take a moment to do the same for your finances. Your future self will thank you for the fresh start.
HRG is here to help with our SHRED-IT Event on March 24th. Drop by our office between 11:00 – 2:00 with all your shredding to get started on your spring cleaning journey.
Retirement planning is the process of determining how you can meet your goals through the proper management of your financial resources.
Tax planning should not only assess your tax situation at retirement and in the present, but also look towards the future.
Social security strategies are various approaches that an individual may take to maximize their social security benefits.
There is more to Medicare than meets the eye. Making the best decision for your situation at age 65 is one of the biggest retirement decisions one may make.
Estate planning is a key element of a successful financial strategy. It ensures you will leave a legacy that provides for your loved ones by properly protecting and distributing your wealth according to your wishes.
If you're ready to take the next step in your retirement planning journey, call (423) 664-4203 today to explore your
My Confidence
by Dr. Bobby Sneed
What do you hope for these days? From whence does your confidence come in times of trouble?
We have been taught, encouraged even, to be self-reliant and to be strong by cultivating an inner strength of resilience so we may persevere no matter what comes our way; but what do we do when we find ourselves overwhelmed and incapable of climbing the hills of trouble that lay before us? Where is your hope then? Where does our confidence come from when we can no longer see a way
out, when all our inner resources are zapped, we are frozen in our doubts and fear leaves us trembling? David must have understood this well when he wrote in Psalm 39:7 NIV, “But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you.” We know from scripture that David was “a man after God’s own heart” (Acts 13:22) partly because he had discovered at a very young age his own limits and had developed a strong faith in the Lord to see him through every circumstance. Furthermore, Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV concerning his own struggles, “And He said to me, ‘My
grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” Paul had reached his mortal limit and now he learned where his personal strength failed, God’s strength was not only sufficient but was made perfect. Every Believer, will be put to the test throughout life to discover our personal insufficiencies so that we may experience the all sufficiency of God and His perfection made evident in times of trouble. And when we have come to our personal limit and found our hope in Jesus, not only do we see that His strength is made perfect but we learn to lean on Him all the time both good and bad. Trusting Him becomes the lesson learned when we discover His faithfulness. Jeremiah must have understood this when he wrote in chapter 17 verse 7 NIV, “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.” I chose the NIV translation because the word “hope” is replaced with “confidence” which is fitting. In whom is your confidence? If your confidence (or hope) is in yourself, you are relying on the lesser (you) and your weakness will soon be found out; but we all should be trusting in the greater (God) and we will quickly find that His strength will never be overwhelmed and will be proven perfect every time! I hope that you will trust in the Lord and be forever confident in Him today.
Dr. Bobby Sneed is the pastor of Deep Springs Baptist Church. His greatest desire is that all will experience the peace, hope and love of the Father made possible by faith in the Son, Jesus Christ.
Keep Watch
by Spring M. Fricks
“Are you asleep?”
Your words float into my dreams like ballerinas dancing in the wind. I hear you but do not stir.
“Dear one, are you asleep?” you ask again.
I’m cozy in my slumber. The cadence of your voice is a lullaby to my soul and a blanket to my spirit. I feel myself smile but again I don’t budge.
“They’re coming for me.”
With these words, I’m up. Your tone cuts the veil between sleep and reality. I’m awake and aware of the danger.
I’ve been asleep on our bench in the garden where we meet. Looking around, I see broken branches and leaves sprinkled like confetti on the ground. Flowers have been stomped and the impressions of overlapping footprints point to a skirmish.
While I was asleep, we were not alone and now you are gone.
Keep watch. . . These were the last words you said to me. My brows furrow as guilt lays heavy like a winter coat across my shoulders.
I run through the garden towards the iron gate at the entrance. I can’t believe I fell asleep, I think, while looking for you behind every tree and bush.
I see the gate, but the shadows lurking just beyond trigger a warning to hide. Ducking behind an oak tree, I fight to control my breathing and turn to steal a peek at the enemy.
“I told you to keep watch.” You’re behind me. Startled, I jump, but you grab and hold me close.
“I’m sorry, my Lord.” I whisper, “I fell asleep.”
“Your enemy never sleeps,” You're so close I feel your breath on my cheek as you whisper in my ear, “and his greatest desire is to separate you from me...”
In Matthew 26:41BSB, Jesus tells us, “Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.”
Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). This is also true of our enemy. Satan has one goal: steal Jesus from us so that he steals us from Him.
The Lord calls us to be diligent in our walk with Him. This decree is for our own benefit. We cannot mount a counterattack against something we never see coming.
We must keep watch and be vigilant regarding the defenses of our spirit. How do we do that? We guard the gates of our perimeter. Scripture teaches that our eyes and ears are the entry point of our heart (Psalm 101:3) and what we allow in will set up residence within (Matt 12:34-35). The things we allow in can bolster our defenses or wear them down, but the choice of what enters is ours to make.
Every tool needed to win the war between good and evil can be found in Scripture. Utilizing these tools creates the difference between living a life with Christ or a life separated from Him. Our first step in this battle is to obey the Lord when He calls us to keep watch.
Spring M. Fricks is a writer, speaker, teacher and content creator for Shield 33 Ministries, a ministry founded to disciple and equip believers to grow in an intimate relationship with Jesus. She lives in NW Georgia.
John Norman, MD
Specializing In:
Arthroscopic Surgery; Joint Replacements of the Knee and Hip; Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of General Orthopedic Conditions, Sports Related Injuries & Pediatric Injuries
Jim Lashley, MD
Fellowship Trained in Orthopedic
Spine Surgery
Specializing In:
Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of Injuries to the Back, Neck & Spine; Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of General Orthopedic Conditions & Sports Related Injuries
Mitch Frix, MD
Fellowship Trained in Sports Medicine & Arthroscopic Surgery
Specializing In:
Arthroscopic Surgery;
Joint Replacements of the Shoulder & Knee; Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of Sports Related Injuries
Nick Reed, MD
Fellowship Trained in Sports Medicine & Arthroscopic Surgery
Specializing In:
Arthroscopic Surgery of the Hip, Knee, & Shoulder
Joint Replacements of the Shoulder
Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of Sports Related Injuries
Mike Wilson, MD
Specializing In:
Arthroscopic Surgery;
Joint Replacements of the Knee and Hip; Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of General Orthopedic Conditions & Sports Related Injuries
D.J. Goss, DO
Fellowship Trained in Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Surgery
Specializing In:
Arthroscopic Surgery of the Foot & Ankle; Joint Replacements of the Foot & Ankle; Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment of Sports Related Injuries of the Foot & Ankle
Catoosa County Church Directory
Baptist
Anchor of Hope Baptist Church
2613 Lakeview Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-8318
Battlefield Baptist Church
178 South Cedar Lane Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-1316
Boynton Baptist Church
4093 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736
706-952-1551
Briarwood Baptist Church
26 Ellis Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-9177
Burning Bush Baptist Church
2195 Burning Bush Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-866-1989
Calvary Memorial Baptist Church
2 E Gate Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-6183
Calvary Memorial Baptist Church 518 Highway #41 Ringgold, GA 30736
706-891-9340
Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle 4994 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-4323
Cherokee Valley Baptist Church 1495 Cherokee Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-6220
Christ First Church
5994 N Hwy 27 Lafayette, Ga 30728
706-764-2212
Clearview Baptist Church 2183 Dietz Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-866-0164
Cloud Springs Baptist Church 207 Cloud Springs Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-0164
Ebenezer Baptist Church
77 Hackett Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-7970
Faith Baptist Church 308 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736
423-509-5334
First Baptist Church Ft. Oglethorpe 2645 LaFayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-0232
First Baptist Church of Ringgold 7611 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-2358
Friendship Primitive Baptist Church 851 Ooltewah Ringgold Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-2382
Gospel Way Baptist Church 31 Bowling Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-891-9866
Grace Baptist Church 7638 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-7969
Harvest Baptist Church of the Deaf 1314 Old Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-375-7107
Video Call: 706-956-0445
Heritage Pointe Baptist Church 60 Dyer Bridge Place Ringgold, GA 30736
706-858-0976
Hickory Grove Baptist Church 5010 Houston Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-673-6999
Keith Baptist Church 1573 Keith Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-450-0963
Lakeview First Baptist Church 10 Hudson Street Rossville, GA 30741
706-861-4262
Living Faith Baptist Church
Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736
706-891-1817
Midway Baptist Church
Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736
706-937-2317
Moriah Baptist Church
2864 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-8843
Mount Peria Baptist Church 341 Sparks Street Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-4887
Mount Pisgah Baptist Church
66 Westbrook Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-3031
Mount Vernon Baptist Church 1006 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-3872
Nellie Head Memorial Baptist
2379 Catoosa Parkway Tunnell Hill, GA 30755
706-935-5236
New Bethel Baptist Church 1635 Salem Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-3500
New Friendship Baptist Church
3833 Salem Valley Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
New Heights Baptist Church
158 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-9838
New Liberty Baptist Church
923 Graysville Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-937-4754
Old Fort Baptist Church
18 Van Cleve Street
Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-861-2807
Parkway Baptist Temple
65 Stuart Road
Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-0325
Peavine Baptist Church
1089 Peavine Road
Rock Spring, GA 30739
706-375-4721
Philadelphia Baptist Church
1065 Pine Grove Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-891-5683
Pine Grove Baptist Church
46 Pine Grove Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-891-2427
Pleasant Grove Baptist Church
7769 Alabama Highway
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-3348
Pleasant Valley Baptist Church
1995 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-537-3633
Poplar Springs Baptist Church
422 Poplar Springs Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-4461
Salem Baptist Church
1947 Keith Salem Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-3907
Shiloh Baptist Church
24 Kay Rossville,Street GA 30741
706-861-4359
Victory Baptist Church 1013 Layfayette Road
Rossville, GA 30741
706-866-0371
Welcome Hill Baptist Church
223 Inman Street
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-4814
Catholic
Saint Gerard Catholic Church
3049 Lafayette Road
Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-861-9410
Church of Christ
Cohutta Road Church of Christ
2233 Mount Vernon Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-3884
Fort Oglethorpe Church of Christ 6 Harker Road
Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-4124
Ringgold Church of Christ 4099 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-2820
Church of God
Boynton Church of God
1956 Three Notch Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-937-6300
Indian Springs Church of God 2256 Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736
706-937-3599
Noble Church of God
75 Glass Rd Lafayette, GA 30728
Ringgold Church of God 117 Emberson Drive Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-2056
Wallaceville Church of God
236 Harp Switch Road
Chickamauga, GA 30707
706-375-2736
Community
Battlefield Ministries Church
64 3rd Street
Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-9090
Green Pasture Community Church
1008 North Beaumont Road
Ringgold, GA 30736
706-375-7333
Lee’s Chapel Community Church 3253 Catoosa Parkway Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-9928
Rock Bridge Community Church 265 Poplar Springs Rd, Ringgold, GA 30736
706-279-3175
Episcopal Church of the Nativity 1520 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-9773
Full Gospel
Yates Spring Full Gospel Church 1300 Yates Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-638-2305
Methodist
Boynton UMC 4246 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736
706-866-2626
Fairview UMC 2112 McFarland Avenue Rossville, GA 30741
423-653-1043
Fort Oglethorpe UMC 1733 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-820-6314
Graysville UMC
2331 Graysville Road Ringgold, GA 30736
706-891-9253
Newnan Springs UMC 78 Monanaw Avenue Rossville GA 30741
706-866-6724
Ringgold UMC
7484 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736
706-935-4777
Nazarene
Battlefield Parkway Church of the Nazarene 3220 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-9838
Non-Denominational
Battlefield Assembly In Messiah 195 Ashley Lane, Rossville, GA 30741
304-890-0949
Battlefield Church of Faith Highway 41 South Ringgold, GA 30736
706-937-7729
Battlefield Praise & Worship 1337 Battlefield Pkwy, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-913-0531
Chosen Generation Ministries 92 W Patterson Avenue Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-779-6777
Church of Living Faith 7623 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-5673
Crossroads Church
7638 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736
crossroadsringgold.com
Faith Builders International 8309 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 256-338-5031
Grace Memorial Church 118 East Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7969
The Gathering 2290 Cloud Springs Road, Rossville, GA 30741 706-841 0161
Light House Church 1201 Lafayette Road Rossville, GA 30741 706-861-2715
Living Waters Ministries 1337 Battlefield Pkwy Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-255-8655
New Life Church PO Box 1973 Ringgold, GA 30736
706-866-7799
Ridgeland Point Church 1417 Happy Valley Rd. Rossville, GA 30741
RockPointe Church 1278 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-820-6523
Untethered Church 2473 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-991-6067
Venue Church
3969 Cloud Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 423-637-7100
Woodstation Church 13198 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3360
Presbyterian
Chickamauga Presbyterian 700 7th Street
Chickamauga, GA 30707
706-375-3432
Christ Fellowship 1176 North Three Notch Rd. Ringgold, GA 30736
706-937-4115
First Presbyterian Church 1 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
706-866-2521
Hope Fellowship 2000 Twin Cedars Rd
Chickamauga, GA 30707
hopefellowshipepc.org
Morton Memorial 560 Red Belt Rd.
Chickamauga, GA 30707
706-338-7176
Seventh-Day Adventist
Battlefield Community SDA Church 96 Hillman Lane Ringgold, GA 30736 706-861-5999
Lookout Mountain SDA Church 6083 Hwy 157 (Atop Lookout Mtn) Rising Fawn, GA
Ringgold Seventh-Day Adventist Church 124 Kittle Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3741
Walker County Church Directory
Assembly of God
Cross Connection
703 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-639-3303
Gospel Tabernacle Assembly of God 1661 Highway 27
Chickamauga, GA
Baptist
Antioch Baptist Church 236 Crow Gap Road Chickamauga, GA
706-539-1117
Bethel Baptist Church 4068 S Highway 341 Chickamauga, GA
706-375-3756
Bethlehem Baptist Church 278 Oak Grove Road Chickamauga, GA
706-375-2797
Bethel Memorial Baptist Church
198 Pledger St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-2995
Bethesda Baptist Church 13432 Highway 151 LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-9450
Calvary Baptist Church 908 Bronco Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-8710
Cassandra Baptist Church 1371 W Cove Rd Chickamauga, GA
706-539-1046
Center Grove Baptist Church
68 Center Grove Church Rd
Rock Springs, GA
706-764-2060
Center Point Baptist Church
118 Center Point Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-764-1753
Chattanooga Baptist Church 7300 Highway 337
LaFayette, GA 30728
Christ First Church 5994 N Hwy 27 Lafayette, GA 30728 (706) 764-2212
Christian Home 2518 Garretts Chapel Rd Chickamauga, GA 423-313-5230
Community Baptist Church 14 Kemp Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-1774
Corinth Baptist Church 2524 Corinth Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-3963
East Armuchee Baptist Church 3196 E. Armuchee Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706 375-4512
Emanuel Baptist Church
639 S Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-1751
Faith Baptist Church of Chickamauga 14251 Highway 193 Chickamauga, GA
423-760-8895
First Baptist Church 603 7th St Chickamauga, GA
706-375-2733
Friendship Baptist Church
1200 N Chattanooga St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-3560
Garrett’s Chapel Baptist Church 3235 Garretts Chapel Rd
Chickamauga, GA
706-375-6708
Grace Baptist Tabernacle
27 Jones Rd
Rock Springs, GA
423-362-3158
Grand Center Baptist Church of Chickamauga 1753 Grand Center Rd
Chickamauga, GA
706-375-8505
Happy Home Baptist Church
704 N Chattanooga St.
LaFayette, GA 30728
Harbor Light Baptist Church
600 Crane St.
LaFayette, GA 30728
423-605-0917
LaFayette 2nd Baptist Church
500 W Main Street
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-2779
Lafayette First Baptist Church
201 N Main St, LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-3727
Lake Howard Baptist Church 1528 Lake Howard Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
423-304-4990
Linwood Baptist Church 18 Steele St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-6527
Liberty Baptist Church 1334 Johnson Rd.
Chickamauga, GA 30707
706-375-3859
Lookout Baptist Church 8645 Highway 193
Chickamauga, GA
706-931-2356
Macedonia Baptist Church 12461 E Highway 136
LaFayette, GA 30728
Marble Top Baptist Church
7131 N Marble Top Rd
Chickamauga, GA
706-375-3536
Mt Hermon Baptist Church 2373 Hog Jowl Rd
Chickamauga, GA
706-858-5650
Naomi Baptist Church 4171 E Highway 136
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-4601
New Harvest Missionary Baptist Church 2034 Highway 337
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-764-6257
New Home Baptist Church
256 New Home Rd.
LaFayette, GA 30728
North LaFayette Baptist Church 1649 N Main St
LaFayette, GA 30728
Oakwood Baptist Church 115 Oakwood St
Chickamauga, GA
706-375-5760
Peavine Baptist Church 1089 Peavine Rd
Rock Springs, GA
706-375-4721
Prospect Baptist Church
194 Prospect Church Rd
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-397-2908
Ridgeview Baptist Church 1001 Magnolis St.
LaFayette, GA 30728
334-300-4733
Ridgeway Baptist Church
1594 Ridgeway Rd.
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-6832
Rock Springs Baptist Church
194 E Turnipseed Rd
Rock Springs, GA
706-810-8199
Shield Baptist Church
12684 N Highway 27
Chickamauga, GA
706-375-2554
Shiloh Baptist Church
46 Manning Mill Rd.
LaFayette, GA 30728
706-397-8427
Sunnyside Baptist Church 3573 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
423-364-9701
True Life Baptist Church 1115 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-996-8571
Walnut Grove Baptist Church 55 Walnut Grove Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-1377
Woodstation Baptist Church 42 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-764-1794
Catholic
Our Lady of the Mount Catholic Church 1227 Scenic Hwy, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750
706-820-0680
Church of Christ
Church Of Christ 105 Crittenden Ave Chickamauga, GA
706-375-2222
Highway 27 Church of Christ 1684 S Highway 27 LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-4644
Lafayette Church of Christ 104 W Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-1890
Steele Street Church of Christ 4 Steele St. LaFayette, GA 30728
423-505-9583
Church of God
Catlett Community Church 122 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-309-4649
Cooper Heights Church of God 12598 Highway 193 Chickamauga, GA 423-903-3759
Cove Road Church of God 620 N Chattanooga St LaFayette, GA 30728
678-467-6982
Covenant Life Worship Center 7001 Lafayette Rd Chickamauga, GA
706-375-5286
LaFayette First Church of God 301 Daugherty St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-639-7329
LaFayette Church of God 1002 S Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-450-0872
Noble Church of God 75 Glass Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-764-1093
Jehovah’s Witness
Kingdom Hall 457 Rodrunner Blvd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-4342
Methodist
Elizabeth Lee Methodist Church 139 Cove Rd Chickamauga, GA
706-375-2182
LaFayette First United Methodist Church 301 S. Main Street LaFayette, GA 30728 (706) 638-2057
Rock Spring Methodist Church 3477 Peavine Rd Rock Springs, GA 30739
706-375-5345
Non-Denominational
Battlefield of Life Worship Center
56 Kevin Ln. Rock Springs, GA 770-827-6718
Calvary Chapel Refinery 101 E Peachtree St, Rossville, GA 30741
706-806-9444
Care Mission 105 N Chattanooga St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-3664
Cowboy Church of Lafayette 196 County Line Rd, Rock Spring, GA 30739
423-596-7227
Faith Worship Center
200 S. Chattanooga St. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-313-7035
Gospel Light Christian Fellowship 36 Fortune St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-996-8535
Hope Fellowship 2000 Twin Cedars Rd Chickamauga, GA 30707
706-375-4673
Life Gate Church
204 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-7620
Mission Bridge Church 807 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-364-6771
Mount Zion Church 223 Dunwoody Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-1238
New Bethel Christian Fellowship 4009 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-6904
Power of Life LaFayette Church 798 W Main St LaFayette, GA 423-596-703430728
River of Life Church 807 W. Maqin St. LaFayette, GA 423-596-703430728
The Haven - LaFayette 415 Chestnut St. LaFayette, GA 706-996-815030728
Presbyterian
Chickamauga Presbyterian Church 700 7th Street
Chickamauga, GA (706) 375-3432
Highland Presbyterian Church 1211 W Noth Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-8940
Lafayette Presbyterian Church 107 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-3932
Quaker
New Friendship Baptist Church 281 Friendship Rd Chickamauga, GA 706-375-7198
Wesleyan
Gordon Lake Weslyan Church
29 Gordon Lake Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728
706-638-6517
Out of the Boat
by Beth Penny
The story of Jesus walking on the water is often remembered for its miracle, but beneath the surface lies a deeper lesson about courage, focus, and trust. Jesus and His disciples had been in the middle of nowhere when a crowd showed up and needed to be fed. That was a miracle in itself. When they were done, Jesus sent the disciples in a boat across the Sea of Galilee while He went up the mountain to pray without distractions.
Meanwhile, the disciples are in the boat on the “sea” that really isn’t a sea at all, just a really big freshwater lake. On the lake, a storm is brewing. The wind picks up, and the boat begins to feel quite unsteady. As the disciples are taking turns keeping watch, they see a “ghost” walking on the choppy water towards them. Now, everyone is up and awake to see what is out on the water when Jesus calls out to them. Peter, impulsive and fiery Peter, challenges Jesus. In Matthew 14:28, he recounts Peter saying, “Lord, if it is you, let me come to you on the water.” Echoing His own words when He called the disciples to take up everything and follow, Jesus gives Peter the green light. Peter steps out of the boat and begins to walk towards Jesus. In the blink of an eye, Peter, realizing that he was actually walking on water amidst the turbulent waves, was gripped in fear and took his eyes off Jesus. He began to sink. Jesus takes Peter’s hand and helps him. Matthew recounts that when they got into the boat, the wind died down, and Jesus admonished Peter with the often quoted “Oh ye of little faith.” Matthew tells us that the rest of them in the boat worshipped and said that Jesus was truly the Son of God.
Our lesson from that passage is a reminder to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. That is a deeply important lesson, as it calls us to maintain our focus on Him rather than the distractions of the world. Jesus used Peter’s moment of doubt as a powerful teaching opportunity, transforming it into a lasting lesson about faith, trust, and the importance of remaining centered on Him.
However, we can look at this story in a different light. I see Peter as having the most faith of them all. We assume
that all of the 12 disciples were on the boat. Of that 12, Peter was the only one with enough faith to step out of the boat. Fiercely loyal Peter. Outspoken Peter. Impulsive Peter. Peter, who was prone to moments of uncertainty, fear, and weakness, stepped out of the boat. How many times are we overcome by fear or weakness and don’t step out in faith as we know we should?
That first step is the hardest, especially when we are surrounded by the rough waters of life. Faith is not the absence of fear, but it is the willingness to step forward despite fear. Peter’s story shows us that faith doesn’t require perfection; it requires courage. Peter’s faith faltered when his focus shifted off Jesus, but he showed remarkable trust by stepping out of the boat. We are supposed to step out when God calls us - even when we are surrounded by doubt, fear, and uncertainty. Our lesson is to not only keep our eyes on Jesus but to step out in faith when He calls, trusting that when (not IF) we stumble, God is there to reach out and help us into the boat.
Beth is a high school English teacher and adjunct college professor who is passionate about faith, education, and encouraging others through writing. She serves with her husband, Chad, who is a Family Pastor at Friendship Baptist Church in Rome, GA.
“Wearealwaysreadytohelp.Ifyouorsomeoneyou knowneeds anew orusedvehiclemakesuretocheck outour websitewhereyoucanshop100%online, customizepayments,valueyourtrade,andmuchmore. Visitwww.northgeorgiatoyota.comandgetstartedonyournextvehiclepurchase ANDREMEMBEROHYESWE
northgeorgiatoyota.com
North Georgia Toyota: 50 Years Strong and Looking Ahead
Building Something That Lasts
North Georgia Toyota has been serving the Dalton community and surrounding areas for 50 years, but its story is rooted in a business that already had deep local ties and a simple guiding idea: take care of customers, invest in people, and build something that lasts.
Tracing Back Roots
The dealership’s roots trace back to an existing Outdoor Center in Dalton, where Edgar Brooker operated a successful local business selling boats and outdoor equipment. In 1975, Toyota was added to that operation, marking the beginning of North Georgia Toyota.
Recognizing Toyota’s potential early on, Mr. Brooker secured the Toyota franchise for Dalton and the surrounding region, planting the seeds for what would become one of North Georgia’s most trusted automotive businesses.
As demand grew, North Georgia Toyota expanded into a standalone facility on Walnut Avenue in 1980. Growth continued steadily through the decades, driven by a commitment to service and long-term relationships rather than short-term trends. By the late 1990s, the dealership had
added additional facilities on the same campus, ensuring it could meet the needs of a growing customer base.
Investment in the customer experience has always been a priority. A major renovation completed in 2016 modernized the dealership, adding expanded service parking, a threebay lube center, a larger showroom, updated parts and service areas, an enclosed service drive, and an enclosed vehicle delivery space — all designed to make buying and servicing a vehicle easier and more convenient.
Expanding with the Toyota Certified Collision Center
In 2020, North Georgia Toyota further expanded its offerings with the opening of its Collision Care Center under the Brooker Motor Company umbrella. After meeting Toyota’s rigorous national standards, the facility earned Toyota Certified Collision Center status, a designation held by only a select group of repair facilities nationwide.
This certification ensures that vehicles are repaired according to Toyota’s exact specifications, using genuine Toyota parts, factory-approved repair procedures, and specialized tools and equipment. The Toyota Certified Collision Center represents a significant investment in quality, safety, and peace of mind for customers.
One Trusted Destination for Sales, Service, and Repair
Technicians receive ongoing, Toyota-specific training to stay current with evolving vehicle technologies, including advanced driver-assistance systems and modern materials such as high-strength steel and aluminum. Repairs are performed with a focus on restoring vehicles not just cosmetically, but structurally and mechanically, helping ensure they perform as designed in future driving conditions.
For customers, the benefit is a seamless, trusted repair experience. From handling insurance coordination to providing consistent communication throughout the repair process, the Collision Care Center allows customers to remain with the dealership they already trust. Having sales, service, parts, and certified collision repair all under one umbrella reflects North Georgia Toyota’s long-standing commitment to convenience, transparency, and long-term vehicle ownership.
Investing in People and Ongoing Training
Today, North Georgia Toyota employs approximately 75 team members, many of whom are bilingual and trained in the latest automotive technologies. As vehicles and customer expectations continue to evolve, the dealership remains focused on ongoing training and providing a transparent, customer-friendly experience from start to finish.
A Brand Philosophy That Aligns with Community Values
Toyota’s reputation for safety, reliability, and long-term value aligns naturally with the dealership’s philosophy. With a diverse lineup of vehicles and multiple powertrain options, Toyota continues to offer solutions for drivers at every stage of life — all supported by advanced safety technologies designed to protect drivers and passengers alike.
Leadership Rooted in Family and Continuity
Leadership at North Georgia Toyota reflects both continuity and evolution. The dealership was owned by founder Edgar Brooker until his passing in 2010, after which his son, Eddie Brooker, assumed leadership as Dealer Principal. Eddie had been part of the dealership for decades and helped guide it through changing markets and industry challenges.
Following Eddie Brooker’s passing in August 2025, the Brooker family remains closely involved in the dealership’s future. His wife has begun taking a more active role, helping preserve the family’s legacy while supporting the next phase of growth.
Greg Epps continues to serve as Managing Partner and General Manager, overseeing day-to-day operations. A lifelong friend of Eddie Brooker, Greg joined North Georgia Toyota in 2010, became General Manager in 2013, and an equity partner in 2020. His leadership emphasizes stability, teamwork, and community involvement — values that have long defined the dealership.
Epps notes, “Last year we started a car show. We will be continuing this into the future and it will be known as The Eddie Brooker Memorial Car Show. All proceeds go to a charitable organization each year.”
Giving Back Through Community Involvement
Over the years, North Georgia Toyota has earned numerous accolades for customer relations, sales, parts, and service excellence. Just as important, the dealership has built a reputation as a great place to work, fostering long-term careers and a culture of respect and professionalism.
Community involvement remains at the heart of the business. North Georgia Toyota proudly supports local organizations, schools, and causes, giving back to the community that has supported it for five decades.
Fifty Years Strong and Looking Ahead
As the dealership celebrates its 50th anniversary, the focus is both reflective and forward-looking. With strong leadership, deep family roots, and a dedicated team, North Georgia Toyota is building on its legacy — ready to serve the community for the next 50 years and beyond.
See www.northgeorgiatoyota.com to shop inventory, to learn about college and military rebates, or to contact the collision center.
Gò0 dNews for Everyone What If?
by Paula Burgner
This small, simple phrase is something that we all are guilty of thinking. Too often, we all go around saying things like, “I wish I had,” “I should have,” or “If only I could have.” Yet have you ever stopped and really taken the time to think about the good side of all the whatifs? And not just the bad things that we usually think about, like “What if I fail?” or “What if I don’t get the chance?” Stop second-guessing everything that you do in life, and start living your life the way that God intended for you to live it.
When you are lost and have never accepted God into your heart, this is how it feels as you go through life—always wondering if you should have done something, or maybe if you had not done that, then things would be different. However, when you give your life to God and accept Him into your heart, His love opens up a new way of thinking that will lead to a new way of living that you have never experienced before.
The old way of thinking about life—such as, “Maybe if I had said no to a certain situation, then I would have gotten something better.” Instead, now your new way of thinking is, “What if God is waiting for me to see just how big He is?” Once you have given your life to God and keep grounded in His Word, you begin to trust the Word of God over what you may hear someone say. The Bible tells us in Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV: “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”
What if everything came together the way that you had always wanted it to? What if everything we go through is preparing us for the things we asked for? So, remember, don’t ever give up on what you are praying about, and always know that it’s okay to ask, “What if?” The Bible tells us in Matthew 21:22 KJV: “And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.”
Once you get the Word of God in your heart, you no longer worry about the things that once bothered you. The Bible tells us in Matthew 6:28 KJV: “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin.”
So, in those moments when you feel those thoughts of doubt trying to creep up on you, just ask the Lord to change your way of thinking. Just because you are not sure about something, don’t be scared to ask, “What if?” Because, as a result of giving your life to God, what if your prayer of faith helps change someone’s life and leads them to the Lord? As your faith becomes stronger, you learn just how powerful prayer can be and that your prayers can move mountains. The Bible tells us in Luke 1:37 KJV: “For with God nothing shall be impossible.”
The Bible also tells us in Proverbs 4:20-21 KJV: “My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart.”
Remember, when you give your life to God and accept Him into your heart, His love opens up a new way of thinking that will lead to a new way of living that you have never experienced before.
Paula Burgner is a strong-willed, outgoing girl who loves spending time with her husband and working out. She believes in her heart that you can do anything you put your mind to. Paula is the author of a new book, Grounded by God’s Grace.
Gò0 dNews to honor Brain Injury Month
Watching in Wonder
by Tammy Madden
January 21, 2002, our perfect baby girl arrived! I prayed for 17 years and she arrived healthy. She walked and talked early. She never got sick for her first 11 months. We had such dreams about her future. But oh, how life can change in the blink of an eye.
December 14th, 2002, our whole world changed. Our baby girl got sick. After spending two months in the Children's Hospital, they knew she was going to need a heart. She would need to be life-flighted to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.
We had been there about a month when she flatlined on us. They crashed her to ECMO (a temporary life support). She was on that for three days before a heart came in. During those three days, she had a massive stroke. After they started letting her wake up, reality set in. Our baby girl had a severe anoxic brain injury. The doctor said she was blind, deaf, and would never walk or talk. Oh but God had much bigger plans for her!
No, we can no longer do the things we planned for her. Our lives did change, but I can never say that it changed for the worse. I say this in hopes that it will help someone who is just now facing a brain injury, especially with a child.
No, we haven’t gotten to watch her lead cheers, go off to college, or get married. But, we have watched her face light up at Disney World, swim with the dolphins at three years old, walk the beach holding our hands, and yes, I said walking.
Currently, we watch as she plays on the Miracle League baseball team and she rides horses like the wind.
Am I sorry that she got the brain injury you might ask? Absolutely not. Now you might say, “Why, that's a crazy answer!” No, it's not. The person she is today is the person that God means for her to be. This is the Megan whom God sent to us to love and raise. Now at 24 years old, she sees and hears very well, and walks with her walker. Every single night, she sends out Bible verses to many people on her Facebook page. She wants to share the love of the Lord,
sing in church, and worship our Lord and Savior. We have also gotten to hear her tell us when she sees angels and I believe she really does.
Brain injury is not easy and I'm not going to say it is, because it has been a long, hard journey. On March 7th, 2026, she will have had her heart for 23 years. We have had physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and water therapy, even her horse riding strengthens her. Through it all, she smiles and smiles. We praise God for giving this child to us.
I pray if you are reading this, and you don't know the power of the Lord, just look at my child and you will see what a wonderful thing God has done in her life! And please, if you see a child who is different and has a brain injury, don't just sit and stare at them. Trust me, the parent would much rather you ask questions than to stare.
During March, Brain Injury Awareness Month, I would like to ask you to spread awareness. Every person is different in their journey, so please always be respectful to them and their caretakers. I pray our daughter’s story will touch you!
My name is Tammy Madden. I live in the beautiful foothills of North Georgia in Chatsworth. I am married to my amazing husband, Gene and we have a beautiful daughter named Megan.
Be Filled
by Katie Loveless
As a young girl, I stood by the kitchen window in awe as I watched my grandfather gulp water from a metal cup. He noticed my gaze and pushed out his belly, patting it as he did so and chuckled heartily. “It's good to be filled up,” he said. “You should try it.”He promptly handed me a tall glass of water which I chugged heartily. We made a game of it walking through the house which ended with me rocking in the chair with my hand on my belly to feel the water slosh around.
It feels good to be filled up. God is so good to fill us with good things.
Did you know that you were born to be filled? God has a plan to keep you, fill you, and allow His goodness in your life to overflow to others.
We see this in the Bible as we consider passages in Exodus and in John.
In the book of Exodus 31, verses 2 and 6, we see that God has a special call of service for His house. We're told of one man He has filled with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge by His spirit to create good works. God soon calls helpers to join in the efforts of filling His house and He gives them wise hearts to make everything He says. God says clearly here that the wise hearts have wisdom that God personally placed. He gave them wisdom not merely for wisdom's sake, He gave them wisdom to use it for His glory. Wow!
Later in John 3:1-8 we see the miracle of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. I so enjoy reading this because I see a mama's heart here tugging at her son's heartstrings and Him tugging right back. Mary knows Jesus already. She understands what He is capable of not merely as her son but as the living Son of God. And she draws it out of Jesus like water from a well. Parents, this is a lesson for us.
Provision is lacking at the wedding and His mom calls Jesus to action. We see Jesus express that it's not yet the season for His miracles. In one way, Mary lets it drop by not saying anything further to Jesus about it. In another way, she nudges Him in the direction of destiny as she encourages the nearby servants to obey whatever He says. He does not disappoint as He commands them to fill six waterpots and draw water out from those. They filled the waterpots to the brim. Water went in but wine came out. This valuable exchange is a miracle.
God has miracles for you, too. He has filled you with gifts and prepared you to do good works. He has important things for you to do and has filled you with wisdom and understanding to do them. Just as Jesus did, grow in your gifts as you get older. When the season is right, God will call you to action just as Mary did with Jesus.
“For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10 NIV).
Katie Loveless is a social worker, wife, and mother of five boys. She is a student of grace who enjoys writing, gardening, and empowering others to pursue stability.
Rebuilding Lives, Restoring Hope
In Northwest Georgia, safety is not something everyone can take for granted. For individuals and families facing domestic violence—or for youth with nowhere else to turn—the Family Crisis Center of Walker, Dade, Catoosa, and Chattooga Counties, Inc. stands as a lifeline of hope.
As the only domestic violence shelter and youth cottage in the Northwest Georgia area, the Family Crisis Center provides refuge, advocacy, and a pathway forward for some of the region’s most vulnerable residents. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the Center’s doors never close to those in crisis.
At the heart of the organization’s mission is a simple but powerful commitment: rebuilding lives. Survivors of domestic violence arrive often with little more than courage and the need for safety. The Center offers secure shelter for victims and their children, along with essential support services designed to help families stabilize, heal, and begin again. Advocacy, emotional support, and ongoing assistance ensure that clients are not only safe in the moment, but supported as they plan for a more secure future.
Contact Matthew Ruckman 423.503.1410
for Runners
Finish Strong
by Bill Silvers
At the age of 81, God put it on my heart to start running 5k races. I’m not a runner. I don’t even like to walk. Yet there I was—lined up at the starting line for my third 5k.
It was a beautiful Saturday morning. About four-tenths of a mile from the finish, I tripped and fell hard, my face striking the edge of the paved road. Medics arrived quickly, stopped the bleeding, wrapped my head with a six-inch gauze bandage, and told me to get into the ambulance. As it began to pull away, I told them to stop.
I had to finish the race.
God didn’t just say run the race. He said finish the race.
Moreover, running echoes my faith. It’s not always about being the fastest but about staying the course, enduring to the end, lifting others along the way. With every race, I run with purpose and I run with joy. It’s not just about the medals; it’s about the message: through God, all things are possible.
As I stepped out of the ambulance, a woman approached and asked, “Do you want to finish?”
“I do,” I said.
“Then, let’s go,” she replied.
About 100 feet from the finish line, she stopped. I crossed alone. The race director saw me, halted the awards ceremony, called me forward, and gathered the runners around me. Together, they prayed for healing and a swift recovery.
Because I believe everything happens according to God’s purpose, I asked myself a hard question: Why did I trip and fall? I already knew the answer. I had become prideful.
Proverbs 16:18 KJV says, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”
Pride blinds us. When we become overly confident or unwilling to listen, we ignore wisdom, limits, and correction. That arrogance sets the stage for a fall, sometimes figuratively, sometimes painfully literally.
When the prayer ended, the same woman returned, asked for my keys, and told me I was going to the hospital. Her husband would follow. She walked me into the emergency room, helped me get settled, returned a few minutes later to place my keys on the desk, and then she was gone. I never saw her again.
God has always placed people, perhaps even angels, along my path to help me reach the goals He has planned for me.
Running teaches dependence—on preparation, patience, and on God. The moment we think, “I’ve got this on my own,” is often when trouble appears on the road and in life. Confidence must be balanced with humility. True strength comes from knowing our limits and trusting God’s guidance.
To paraphrase the verse: Run with humility, and you’ll finish strong. Run with pride, and you’re headed for a fall.
On the bright side, I didn’t stop running. Over the next two years, I completed 25 races. I learned my lesson the hard way, and I never tripped or fell again.
Bill Silvers from Ellijay, Georgia, began running competitively at age 81. He runs to the glory of God!
for Discovering More
MORE THAN Reflections
by Garrett Nudd
As a photographer, I learned a key point: If you point your camera at enough people, it doesn’t take long to discover some pretty significant and surprising insecurities. Over the years I’ve discovered a sad and unfortunate truth. Most people view themselves as less than. Less than they are. Less than others see them. And less than God designed them to be.
In a practical sense, this less than mentality can show up in a variety of ways. As someone who thrives on creative pursuits, sometimes it shows up when I have a thought or idea, and then after mulling on it for a bit, I end up talking myself out of it. Maybe you’ve experienced something similar.
How many times have I had a thought or an idea, and then talked myself out of it?
Oh, wouldn’t it be cool if we did this?
No, it’s too much work.
Ummm, no it’s MORE THAN.
Well, I don’t really have the time. And what if it doesn’t work?
It’s MORE THAN.
If it fails I’ll look silly.
Or, someone else will take care of it.
Every day, Jesus puts opportunities in our path for MORE THAN. All we have to do is say, “Absolutely.”
Over the years I've realized the less than perception we often have of ourselves is contrary to everything God stands for and every promise He’s ever made. If only we could see ourselves through His eyes. If only we could see why He loves us and how He loves us, I think everything would change, especially how we feel about ourselves.
The truth is, when you think you’re less than, God says you are MORE THAN. When you think you are less than, God says you are His.
“Oh, I love you beyond your wildest dreams,” God says. “Make no mistake about it. I wish you could see yourself the way I do. I wish you could see yourself the way I created you.”
As I look back, I’ve realized that God has used the people in my life like my parents and grandparents when I was younger to teach me MORE THAN. And as I grew toward adulthood, it was caring teachers and mentors and then my wife, Joy, who reminded me I am MORE THAN.
So, I ask you, what passion or pursuit do you have nagging at your heart?
Do you have a project or product or service you would like to unleash to the world?
What steps can you take today to move yourself closer to achieving that exciting goal?
Who are the people in your life who help remind you time and time again that you are MORE THAN?
Or, what if we flip it around and ask, are there people in your life who you can help remind that they are MORE THAN?
And what can you do specifically, to show them they are MORE THAN?
Remember, your MORE THAN dream—and the dreams of those around you—deserves to be shared, and the world is waiting for you!
This excerpt from Garrett’s book, MORE THAN Discovering How Your Story Reveals God’s Beautiful Truth About You, is adapted to our format and used with permission.
Gò0 dNews for your Taste Buds Keto Cheesy Egg Muffins
These low-carb egg muffins are packed with protein and perfect for meal prep.
• 6 large eggs
Ingredients:
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• ¼ cup cooked bacon or sausage, crumbled
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1 tbsp chopped green onions or parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or use silicone liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Stir in cheese, bell peppers, and cooked bacon/ sausage.
4. Pour the mixture evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the egg muffins are set and slightly golden.
6. Let cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin.
Tip: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick grab-and-go breakfast!
You’ll Be a Butterfly Soon
by Cindy J. Evans
When I was in a dark place, as if held in a cocoon, I heard the Lord gently whisper, “You'll be a butterfly soon.” I waited in the quiet, I waited when I couldn't see, I waited, daring to hope, longing to be free!
Then, suddenly! Light! He gave me my breakthrough and a butterfly I became, to live and fly brand new!
Cindy Evans is a published poet living in the greater Atlanta area. When she’s not writing, you may find her at a Christian movie, attending a church activity, or volunteering at the local faith-based hospice office.
Parenting in Peril
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23 NIV).
by John Garrod
Long before there was YouTube or Google to come to your records, there were Chilton’s manuals. Chilton’s manuals were comprehensive books that would tell you how to do all kinds of repairs on your car. Now you had to get the right manual for your particular car, and specify by a year range, but with my luck with cars, it always made sense to get one as soon as the ink was dry on the title.
In raising six children, there were many times I wished that kids came with instruction manuals. As my youngest finishes her time in high school, I’ve often come to ponder how much has changed between #1 and #6. The introduction of the internet, the advent of social media, and instant communication 24/7 has amplified many of the stresses of relationships with other kids and kids are exposed to compelling voices leading them in every direction except the ones you desire for them. By this stage in my career as a dad, I’d be pulling out my hair if I had any left that was long enough to grasp.
To compound it, I teach in an alternative high school, where many of my students have experienced some of the worst things the modern world could throw at them, including violence, rape, homelessness, and even the lack of good rock music.
And that is because the Good News is just as relevant in this time and for this age as it was 50 or 100 years ago. What we should do is what we can do: Love them just as Scripture instructs. Exercise forbearance, loving them enough not to respond in kind when they lash out at us, at our ways. Be faithful and gentle with them, even when the horns replace the halos and the fangs taint the angelic smiles.
Some of you are shaking your heads, either at the idea of rock music or in agreement with my lamentations about the “progress” our world has brought. These are very perilous times, especially for those of us who seek holiness and sanctification and good testimonies, not only for ourselves but also for our descendants. But I don’t just bring you ominous tidings of what you already know. I have good news; good old news, as it were.
Be faithful, both to your own beliefs and faith, and also to your love for them. As they find their way through all of this confusion and fear and misinformation and evil, they need to see the steadfast beacon of your love. The time will come for them when the dust will settle and they will be looking for those things that endure. If you have been steadfast in your love and in your faith, that faithfulness will be burned into their memory. Against this strategy there is no law; against it, the devil has little defense.
John Garrod is father of 6, husband of 1, an ESOL teacher in Dalton, GA, a Lee U graduate (c/o ‘19), a U.S. Army veteran and a member of South Cleveland Church of God.
for Health & Fitness
Presence as a Present (Gift)
by Dr. Rob England
In my private practice, I teach my clients about being mindful (attentive). In other words, I teach them how to be present. The term “being mindful” (or mindfulness) has taken on many different meanings (as is the case with most words in our vocabulary). So context is key. I teach clients to be mindful, not as a way to place their minds elsewhere, but quite the opposite. Truly being mindful is making sure, at that moment at least, that your mind is aware of what is going on right now, taking a moment to switch your focus to the here and now, paying attention to the present moment (“being present”).
We do have to consider our past and we do have to plan for the future, but we also need to pay attention to what is going on right in front of us (and what is going on inside of us). I teach clients to pay attention to what they are looking at, thinking about, and feeling. We tend to live on autopilot. This is necessary in some regards, but dangerous in other ways. Our eyes can be focused on something sinful or our mind can ruminate over hateful thoughts, without us catching ourselves. If we are paying attention to our thoughts and actions (“thinking about our thinking” and monitoring our behaviors), we can quickly catch and redirect our thoughts and actions with the help of the Holy Spirit. When being mindful, we should pay close attention to where we are, what we are doing, and (very important)
what we are thinking and feeling. Our thoughts (especially), but also our emotional state, can slip under our radar. We may not realize what we are thinking and feeling until after we have acted on those thoughts and feelings. Often, what we do or say, as a result, can be something we regret. Thus, paying attention to our thoughts and beliefs and catching them (taking them captive, as Paul says in 2 Corinthians 10:5) keeps them from slipping past our notice and thus leading to a belief system or an action (or words) that are ungodly. Catch those thoughts and interrogate them. (Are they true? Are they helpful?) And keep in mind that, in general, our emotions stem from our thoughts (and then our actions stem from our emotions).
Thus, noticing our thoughts and taking them captive is so important. This reinforces our need to pay attention to what we think, feel, do and say, because these affect both ourselves and others. Paul reminds us to “not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4 NASB). We do this partly by paying attention to ourselves (how we think about and treat others), and partly by really honing into the state of those around us. Pay attention to what our “neighbors” are doing, saying, thinking, feeling, and needing. This is also part of being mindful and present. How can I look to the interests and needs of those around me, if my mind is elsewhere (not present)? How can I listen to what the person in front of me (a person God loves) is truly saying and needing, if I am not present? If I am consistently focused on the past or the future (including planning, anticipating, and/or worrying about what is coming up later that day, week, month, etc.), then I am rarely present enough to notice others and to help others. My “presence” can be a present (a gift) to others. Something to think about and pray about!
Grateful for
PRECISION MEDICINE. EXPERT SUPPORT. RIGHT HERE.
When Dalton resident Dana Easley was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer, her world changed overnight. With six rounds of chemotherapy and a hysterectomy ahead, she leaned on her faith, her family, and the compassionate care she found at Peeples Cancer Institute.
Her care team, including Lisa Duhaime, MD, and oncology nurse practitioners Kim Bailey and Jaime Pesl, guided her through six rounds of chemotherapy before she could undergo a hysterectomy. Mrs. Easley says, “They listen, and they care. They don’t mind spending time with you. The whole staff is very caring.”
To help protect her hair during treatment, she chose to use the Paxman cold cap system. “It worked for me, and I did not lose all my hair,” she shares. She also connected with Boggs Boutique, where cosmetologist Stacey Gibson provided both practical and emotional support, helping her with makeup and hair care. “I love Stacey—she’s a lifesaver.”
This spring, Mrs. Easley rang the ceremonial bell at PCI after her scans showed no cancer. She continues on oral medication and a monthly infusion to help prevent recurrence.
She finds joy in the kitchen, cooking daily and sharing homemade meals with neighbors, family and friends. She encourages others in similar situations to keep a positive outlook. She said, “surrounding yourself with positive people is important. Cards from friends make a big difference. It’s easy when you surround yourself with positive people. I just embrace every minute.”
With access to advanced treatments—including precision medicine, Phase III clinical trials with Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, and the only ACR-Accredited Radiation Oncology Center within 50 miles of Chattanooga—we are here, grateful to walk beside patients who inspire us through their strength and healing.
