"Embracing New Beginnings: A Graduation Blessing"
Written by W. Temple Richie, Jr, Interim Pastor
Congratulations to each of you on reaching this significant milestone in your lives! As you move up the next rung of the educational ladder, or out into the world having competed the final rung in your academic journey, be it high school, college or at the graduate level, you should feel a sense of great accomplishment. Life is about setting goals and persisting in the achievement of those goals.
I would remind you, as you set your new goals, of the promises and purpose that God has for each of you, as reflected in His Word. We all have our plans, but it is wise to remember that God has His plans for our lives, also. Hear the words of Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” As you embark on your next journey—whether it is further education, entering the workforce, or exploring your passion, remember and embrace this divine assurance.
You will face many challenges that are ahead, but stay true to your values, seek God’s guidance, and trust in His timing. I encourage you to carry the light of Christ into the world, remembering that “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14) Let that light shine brightly in your communities, workplaces, and wherever your path may lead.
Finally, remember the words of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Your strength does not come solely from your education or abilities, but from your faith in Christ who empowers you, and from the love and support of the families in whose care God has placed you. We thank God for supportive, encouraging parents and grand-parents.
As your pastor, I am proud of each of you and excited for what lies ahead. May God bless you abundantly as you take these next steps in faith.
The digital landscape has shaped parenting dynamics, introducing new opportunities for connection across generations.
There are tons of articles written about parenting in the digital age. The digital environment has really thrown a “monkey wrench” into parenting, irrespective of the age of the child/individual with whom a traditional adult/parent is trying to maintain a relationship Technology has caused a considerable transformation in the way parents and children of any age communicate and relate to one another We used to have to worry about what was on TV, but now everyone has a cell phone, is on social media, or has computer access to almost everything!
In writing this article, one concept that drew our attention was Present Parenting This concept is based on being actively involved with your children It involves being emotionally engaged and available to one’s children in the present moment. It requires creating a nurturing and responsive environment that fosters trust, communication, and connection unlike traditional parenting styles that may have relied on authority or discipline Present Parenting emphasizes quality time, empathy, and open dialogue
Written by Denver Betts Sr., Denver Betts Jr., and Denver Betts III
Yes, technology is good, but you need a strategy that includes boundaries for technology use That means we have to cultivate generational relationships and prevent harm from a technological environment that is not necessarily interested in cultivating family relationships We have to create opportunities to be present with face-to-face quality time It is harder these days, especially with older children, because of the demand for extracurricular activities, e g , school sports Kids with cars make it even harder!
In our case, we have three generations of relationships we try to keep bonded. We bond through car maintenance, golf, and other things of general interest to all of us Some things are a necessity, and others are just fun Some are just things that, hopefully, your child will look back on in years to come and tell their children about them The bottom line is that you have to set realistic expectations because you can’t spend all the time with your kids. It amounts to quality and not quantity. Be there for your young folks and be aware of their activities Have some routines where you include one another regularly In the words of an old TV commercial, “You’ll be glad you did!”
A Tribute to Mothers class of 2025
Queson Hughes Elementary School Graduate
Devin Reese Cowan Madison Academy
Danielle Tasie Riverton Intermediate School
Gabrielle Tasie Riverton Intermediate School
Jessica Cook Sparkman High School
Mikell Davis Sparkman High School
Jeffrey Grayson Caldwell Legacy Elementary School
Ariyah Brazile Monoriva Elementary School
Lyric Archibald Monoriva Elementary School
Dawson Andry Betts Sparkman High School
Nkumma Green Buckhorn High School
Laila Archibald Monrovia Middle School
class of 2025
JaKarra Alexis Oglesby Tennessee State University
Corban Swain Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Zarion Tyriq Dee’Chon Payne Lee High School
Jonathan Emerson Turnage Auburn University
Nicholas Devin Hammonds Alabama A&M University
Jillian Davis Lockhart Alabama A&M University
Jackson Quarles The University of Alabama
Joshua Alexander Williams Madison Academy
Zolia Shipman Liberty University School of Divinity
Dr. Keysha Kelli Curry Huntsville Bible College
Sarah Ruth Pierce Bob Jones High School
Lamario J. Williams University of Alabama at BirminghamMedical School
Dr. Kaitlyn Boddie Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Jannie Thomas Bonner Huntsville Bible College
Dr. Douglas Carletus Bonner Huntsville Bible College
Overcoming Spring/Summer Allergies:
Effective Strategies
As the flowers bloom and temperatures rise, many people welcome the beauty of spring and summer, but for allergy sufferers, this season can bring a host of challenges. Allergies are often triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and fatigue. Here are some effective strategies to help you manage and overcome seasonal allergies.
• Stay Informed About Pollen Counts**: Knowledge is power. Keep an eye on local pollen forecasts, which can help you plan outdoor activities. Websites and apps provide real-time pollen levels, allowing you to stay indoors on peak days.
• Limit Outdoor Activities: On
days when pollen counts are particularly high, try to limit outdoor activities, especially in the early morning when pollen levels tend to be at their peak. If you need to be outside, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and a mask to reduce inhalation of allergens.
• Create an Allergy-Free Home Environment**: Keep windows closed and use air conditioning to filter pollen out. Regularly clean your home to minimize dust and other allergens. Consider using HEPA filters in your air systems for added filtration.
• Shower and Change Clothes After Being Outside: Pollen can cling to your skin and clothes. Showering and changing into fresh clothes
after spending time outdoors can help remove allergens, reducing your symptoms.
• Consider Allergy Medications: Over-thecounter antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays can provide relief from symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.
• Consult an Allergist: If your allergies are severe, an allergist can provide personalized advice and treatments, including allergy shots, which may help alleviate symptoms over time.
member highlights
Brother Kirby and Trustee Shelia Stevenson celebrate their 41st wedding anniversary on June 2nd.
Brother Kevin and Sister Joyce Gaston celebrate their 31st wedding anniversary on June 2nd
Carlisle and Mary Ann Hammonds celebrate their 47th wedding anniversary on June 18th
Minister Robert and Sister Harriet Clark celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary on June 28th
Deacon James and Deaconess Joyce Oglesby celebrate their 26th wedding Anniversary on June 5th.
Deacon Wilman A. and Deaconess Dianne L. Pidgeon celebrate their 56th wedding anniversary on June 28th.
Dawson Andry Betts signed with Calhoun Community College with Athletic Scholarship to play Baseball.
