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Today, in the Dalton community, the region’s best cardiovascular care is just one heartbeat away, at Hamilton Health.
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About Us
WRITERS
Dr. Alan Hix
Brenda Dedmon
Brian Johnson
Candyce Carden
Detrick Redding
Dorothy Teague
Granger Hughes
Judy Hood
Kody Fox
Kristen West
Lena Barber
Paula Burgner
Spring Fricks
Thomas Morrison
SALES
Matthew Ruckman
423-503-1410
Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com
DESIGN
Caleb Prytherch
Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Paula Knipp
423-310-4207
GoodNews Dalton
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/goodnewsdalton
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.
Guarding Yourselves from Fear
by Detrick Redding
Have you ever seen the intermingling of fear like that is in the world today? Probably not! We have a generation that has been introduced to fear in such magnitudes that it can’t be measured: fear of our lives and the future; fear that the government will not be; fear that destruction is the only choice. Fear has been downloaded into the hearts and minds of many of us all. This fear is paralyzing to some, causing a lack of moving forward and settling for whatever comes their way. For others, this fear causes rapid and uncalculated movements that promote danger and trauma. Fear will cause mindless, heartless, and portentous activity. We must eradicate fear from our lives.
What is the opposite of fear? Confidence and courage! God told Joshua, in Joshua 1: 6, “Be strong and of a good courage…Only be thou strong and very courageous.” This decree was powerful and yet exactly what Joshua needed for the days ahead of him. The declaration of strength was not just for him physically but for him mentally and spiritually as well. I do believe that God is declaring the same words to us. It’s imperative for us to be strong for the day and times ahead. We need strength for the battles ahead, strength for the confrontations of the evil one, and strength to stand against the opposing forces of the evil one.
Let’s be very clear, the enemy is opposing the Body of Christ in a very strategic manner: taking lives, stealing our children, and confusing the minds of many. This is not normal; this is the enemy at work. We must be strong to stand against the wiles of the devil, (see Ephesians 6:11). We are to be not only strong but very courageous. There must be a sense of bravery within us as well. David the little shepherd boy was courageous. He saw Goliath the giant and called him an uncircumcised Philistine and went after him with a slingshot in his hand. We can see that courage kicked in and caused that big giant to fall. David took the giant’s sword and cut off his head. That took courage.
Paul tells Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:7 that God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Since God didn’t give fear, then it is obvious that it came from the evil one. If the evil one can manipulate us into taking fear, then he can hinder us from flowing with God.
It behooves us to capitalize on the power of love and the power of a sound mind. One of the best ways I can tell you to do that is found in Joshua 1. We must develop our
minds to meditate on the words of our God, day and night. What does biblical meditation mean? Ponder the words of our God, mutter them under your breath, and breathe His words. The psalmist said it this way, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart that I might not sin (or transgress) against thee” (Psalm 119:11 KJV).
It’s time to load up on the word of God. The word of God gives you a new way of thinking that opposes the enemy while at the same time activates the mind of the Spirit within you. This will activate the courageous heart like David had that is within each of us!
DQualified Charitable Distributions From Your IRA
Money Matters Granger Hughes with
Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes works with his father to help provide educational opportunities for clients as well as others in the community. He feels a responsibility to help inform those who may otherwise not be aware of strategies, changes, and opportunities available to them when it comes to their financial well-being.
id you know that you can take money from your IRA tax-free? Do you make contributions to your church or other charitable organizations throughout the year? If so, and you meet certain requirements, you can make these donations directly from your IRA with no tax implications to your income.
Let’s first look at exactly what a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) is. According to the IRS, this is a distribution IRA account owners over age 70 ½ can make contributions to a charity or charities each year tax-free. Notice the IRS rule states over age 70 ½. This was the Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) start age for decades. Thanks to the Secure Act, the RMD has been raised to 73, currently, and then to age 75 in 2033. This means you can make a QCD from your IRA prior to reaching RMD age.
Why would an individual want to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution rather than just using the more traditional method of using cash on hand? Let’s look at the benefits a QCD may offer, especially once you reach RMD age where you are required to take money from your IRA whether you need the income or not.
• Reduction in Taxable Income: One of the primary benefits of using a QCD for your RMD is that the distributed amount is not included in your taxable income. Normally, RMDs are taxable as ordinary income, which can increase your taxable income and potentially push you into a higher tax bracket. By using a QCD, you can reduce your taxable income by the amount donated to charity.
• Satisfy RMD Requirements: A QCD allows you to satisfy part or all of your RMD requirement for the year. This is particularly advantageous if you don't need the entire RMD amount for personal expenses and would prefer to support charitable organizations instead.
• No Charitable Contribution Limitations: Unlike regular charitable deductions, which are subject to various limitations based on your income and the type of donation, QCDs allow IRA owners aged 70½ or older to donate up to $100,000 annually directly to qualified charities per individual. This can be especially
beneficial for individuals with higher incomes who may face restrictions on their charitable deductions.
• Potential Savings on Medicare Premiums: Reducing your taxable income through a QCD can also help lower your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). This, in turn, could potentially reduce your Medicare Part B premiums or help you avoid Medicare surcharges that apply to higher-income retirees.
• Philanthropic Impact: By using a QCD, you can support charitable causes that are meaningful to you directly from your retirement savings. This allows you to make a positive impact on your community or causes you care about while leveraging tax efficient strategies.
• Simplicity and Compliance: QCDs are straightforward to execute if done correctly. The distribution must be made directly from the IRA custodian to the qualified charity to qualify for the tax benefits. This ensures compliance with IRS regulations and avoids potential tax penalties that could arise from mishandling RMDs.
One thing to keep in mind during tax time is that your 1099-R will show a QCD as a normal distribution from your IRA and must be reported as taxable income. The individual is responsible for reporting it accordingly on their tax return or providing accurate information to their CPA to account for the QCD. Utilizing QCDs, especially when reaching RMD age can provide tax advantages, support charitable organizations that matter to you, and help to optimize your retirement planning by effectively managing your taxable income. It is a strategy that should be discussed as part of your retirement game plan.
Contact our office today to further discuss QCDs and allow our team to show you how The Retirement Playbook™ can help develop your game plan and coach you through your retirement season.
Memorials
by Brian Johnson
If you’ve read any of my previous articles, you’ve probably come across a time in which I mentioned a life-changing experience. It was after a devastating betrayal. Recovering from that was, by far, the most difficult time of my life. I don’t live too far away from the house we were in at the time. Trying to raise three children primarily on my own was hard but with the help of God and the body of Christ, the church, I was able to get through it.
come, saying, What mean ye by these stones? Then ye shall answer them, That the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD; when it passed over Jordan” (KJV).
This memorial was for the generations to remember what God had done for them. Do you have something like that in your life? It may not be physical but something that you can look to, to remind you of what God has done for you.
The pain of that time brought me closer to God than I’d ever been before. I can definitely say that I wouldn’t have the relationship with Him that I have today if it weren’t for that experience. Every time I go by that house, I’m reminded of the pain but – even more so – I'm reminded of the victory.
In the fourth chapter of Joshua, the children of Israel had just crossed the Jordan River into the promised land. Joshua instructed a man from each of the twelve tribes to get a stone from the Jordan River and put them “in the place where they lodged” (Joshua 4:8) for a memorial. The purpose of this is mentioned in verses 6-7 “…that when your children ask their fathers in time to
We know that God will allow trials in our lives, but He also promises us that He’ll get us through them. We just have to trust in Him as we go through the trial. He does this to help us mature and continue the process of conforming us to the image of Christ (see Romans 8:29).
Romans 5:3-4 KJV says, “Tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope.” One of the ways we can have hope during tribulation is by going back to the memorials we’ve been able to set up to remind us of the trials God has brought us through.
If you can’t find a memorial in your life, could it be because you haven’t trusted God during a trial to bring you through? Do you just continue to struggle and struggle but you’re never victorious? To you, I’d say, give up ownership of your life and completely give it over to Him. When you do that, you’ll see and experience God in a way you never have before. You’ll see Him in a miraculous way that will give you a testimony and hope knowing that God will give you victory now because of what He’s done in the past.
Brian Edward Johnson is a deacon at his church, nurse and author of Behaving Wisely, One Man’s Journey from Betrayal to Blessing. He longs for Christians to trust God for every aspect of their lives.
We sell gently used and new furniture, building supplies, and appliances at a fraction of the retail price.
ReStore of Greater Dalton functions on donations made by individuals and businesses within our community. All of our proceeds go back into funding our mission of building homes for hardworking, low-income families in need.
DONATE & SHOP TODAY!
ReStore Hours Donation Information
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Friday 10am - 4pm
Saturday 10am - 2pm
Since 1904, Builtwell Bank has strived to be the local economic engine in the communities we serve. This year, we are honored to be ranked #21 in the country in the Annual Listing of Independent Banker’s Best-Performing Community Banks.
Seeking God’s Face
by Spring Fricks
There’s a bench. It’s made of stone. In the morning when the sun has just peeked over the horizon and the dew is fresh, the stone is cold and sends a shiver through me as I sit. It’s a bench I frequent often, and I'm familiar with the surroundings by scent and feel. The bench is in a garden.
Sometimes, the garden is tended with blooms open in all their glory, perfuming the air, and beds and paths that are meticulous in their presentation. Other times, the garden is neglected. The shriveled blooms litter the ground, weeds have overgrown the paths, and the beds are in disarray.
radiant glory as if declaring, “He is coming...Just wait...He’s almost here.”
It’s His gate and I’m here on this bench in a tattered garden waiting for Him to arrive. I am still, My breath is catching in my throat scared that if I let it out, I won’t be able to get it back. My hope is dwindling, and fear gnaws at my flesh. But I choose to sit. I choose to seek. I choose to wait. Until...
The sunrays burning through the gate turn to fire with a golden glow which warms the path and heats my skin. The gate opens. The light is so bright I cannot search it with my eyes and yet I know from whom the light is emanating. He has come.
Today, the gardens are blooming, but they are wild and unkempt, and shame fills me knowing I haven’t cared for my garden as I should.
Yet I sit. And wait.
I turn my eyes toward the gate. It’s not the gate I use to enter the garden. My gate is tattered and made of wrought iron which is rusted in places and creaks when opened. No, my eyes are turned toward the eastern gate where the sun shines through lighting the garden in dancing rays of
My King. My Jesus.
He does not care about the state of the garden. He sits with me on the bench, which is no longer cold. Taking my hand in His He whispers into my ear, “If you seek Me, you will find me. I will never leave you.”
Psalms 27:7-8 CJB says, “Listen, Lord, to my voice when I cry; show favor to me; and answer me. My heart said of you, ‘Seek my face.’ Your face, Lord, I will seek.”
With God, it’s never about the state of our garden or our circumstances. With God, it is always about our heart. He is willing to be found if we humble ourselves and seek. It’s in the finding that we embark upon a love story that nurtures, grows, comforts, redeems, and endures throughout our lives. It’s the growth of a relationship with the goal of nurturing an intimate friendship. Only this friendship is with the king of the universe, the creator of heaven and earth, and is a friendship that will last for all eternity. Father, our God, it is your face that we seek.
Splish Splash! A Fun Day Water Blast
by Brenda Dedmon
Do you like to go to a water park? It can be a fun time with your friends, especially when the weather is hot! However, it may be too costly to take your friends. You will find ideas in this article to have a fun water day with your friends in your own backyard! Ask your parents to assist you in this adventure and include on your guest list a child that does not get invited to many parties. We read in John 15:17 “Love One Another,” so this day could be a day of showing love to your friends. Remember to tell your friends to wear their bathing suits and bring a towel.
● Pool of Bubbles Items needed: Small kiddie size pools and bathtub bubbles. Instructions: Place the Bubble Bath solution in the pool and fill it with water. Stir the water while filling the pool to make more bubbles! After playing in the bubbles, run through your sprinkler to rinse off the bubbles.
● Water Balloon Pinta Game Items needed: A regular size balloon for each person., a plastic bat, string to tie up balloons. Instructions: Before the activities fill each balloon with water. Attach the string to the balloon and hang it from a tree. Directions for the game: Have one child at a time use the plastic bat to hit their balloon! No candy, but lots of wet fun when the balloon burst!
● Homemade Sprinkler Items needed: Sturdy Plastic Bottle, Garden hose, Waterproof tape, drill. Instructions: Drill small holes at different angles in the bottle. Attach the garden hose to the bottle using the tape. Place sprinkler in the yard.
● Water Bombs Items needed: Package of small sponges, elastic bands such as ponytail holders, container for water, scissors. Instructions: Cut the sponges into eight equal strips. Bunch the strips together and place elastic bands around the middle. Place in a container of water and you are set to have a water bomb soaking!
● Water Balloon Toss Items needed: small water balloon, water, container for balloons Instructions: Before the activities fill the water balloons with water and place them in a container. Directions: Divide the children into two teams. Have them line up in two lines about an arm's length apart. Give one team a filled water balloon and they will toss it to the person standing in front of them. After each toss, each player will take a step backward and continue to toss the balloon until it bursts. When it bursts, have each player sit down at that spot. Continue until all the balloons have burst or until players reach a designated place you have determined to be the finish line.
● Snacks: It would not be a fun day without water theme snacks! Items needed: Assorted flavors of juices, watermelon, grapes, pineapple wedges, gummy fish, gummy lifesavers, goldfish, snack size plastic bags, plastic cups, plates, napkins. Directions: Pour the different juices into ice cube trays and freeze. Make a fruit tray using the fruits. Use the zip lock bags for the candies and goldfish.
Rev. Brenda Dedmon, retired director of Children’s Learning Center in Dalton, Georgia and an avid Roll Tide fan.
for Marriage Learning to Love
by Paula Burgner
Faith, hope, and love: these words are expressed most often when showing affection for someone, whether it is giving someone a word of encouragement, making someone feel as though they are special, or trying to help someone through a rough time. Sometimes when you tell someone you love them, do you ever stop to think of the meaning behind the words? Or, is it just an expression thrown around because it is something
you were taught when you were younger? Before you can truly understand the love that comes from someone else, you must learn to love yourself. The Bible tells us in *Ephesians 5:29, “For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it.”
When you decide to turn your life over to God, you will find yourself reading and studying the word of God more. From reading and studying the Bible, you learn what loving someone really means. The Bible tells us in 1 John 4:16, “And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” So don’t ever doubt that God does love you because the Bible not only tells us this, it confirms that God does love us all. It says in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that
whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
This kind of love that God shows to us is not meant to be bottled up and kept to ourselves. Showing that we love one another is an order that God gives us. The Bible tells us in John 13:34, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you.” Every time you show love to someone or something whether it is a pet you have or someone that you really care for, you should always make sure that it comes from your heart and not just words that are flying out of your mouth.
This is the same way we are suppose to love God once you accept Him into your heart. The Bible tells us this in Matthew 22:37, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” So don’t ever forget that having faith is what makes everything possible, having hope is what keeps you pushing forward, and having love is everything. The Bible tells us this
in Ephesians 3:17, “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith that ye, being rooted and grounded in love.” On those days when you get the feeling that you can’t go on or the feeling that you are alone with no one there to love you, always remember that once you accept God into your heart then you will have His grace and love. His grace and love is always there surrounding you to protect you. You just have to remember to speak the word of God over your life and keep it over you as a shield.
The Bible tells us this in 1 Thessalonians 5:8, “But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love.”
*All Scriptures are KJV.
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.
Feeding and Squawking
by Kristen West
Iwas minding my own business. Just sitting on my front porch sipping my fresh coffee and watching the sun begin to rise in the sky.
What I thought would be a quiet, relaxing atmosphere was quickly punctured as I was auditorily accosted by two very angry wrens.
Perched high above me from opposite ends of my elevated porch roof, they were taking turns squawking at me in a manner that was clearly meant to offend. Having circled the sun for a while now, I knew what
this ritual meant. They had a nest nearby and were making it abundantly clear that they did not appreciate my presence this close to their nursery.
They took turns serving breakfast to a nest full of needy mouths that I could hear every time Dad or Mom came in for a landing with a juicy bug. Dad flew in, deposited part of the morning meal, and flew off again – squawking at me the whole time. Mom followed in the same manner. Their touch-and-go meal delivery system had been elevated to a code red because I was in the area. Their “verbal” assault on me continued for as long as I sat there.
Watching Mom and Dad Wren reminded me anew of what our call, as parents, tends to look like. Feeding and protecting happen routinely (and sometimes simultaneously). Our children look to us for spiritual sustenance – solid, Biblical application of why and how the Scriptures are still as relevant today as they were hundreds of years ago. It’s our job to feed them, teach them, train them, show them how and where to find things for themselves in the Word so that they grow to be strong in faith and personally dependent on Christ, able to eventually fly on their own.
“These words that I am giving you today are to be in your heart.
Repeat them to your children. Talk about them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up” (Deuteronomy 6:6,7 CSB).
“…don’t frustrate your children…take them by the hand and lead them in the way of the Master” (Ephesians 6:4 MSG).
But, at the same time, it’s also our responsibility to protect them. Spiritually cover them in prayer, resist the enemy as we discern him afoot, and speak the Word of God in a powerful and effective manner that puts any spiritual adversary looking to harass our children on the run.
“I use God’s mighty weapons, not those made by men, to knock down the devil’s strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10:4 TLB).
“…be strengthened by the Lord…put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil” (Ephesians 6:10-11 CSB).
These truths and promises apply regardless of the children God has given you to shepherd and care for – biological, adopted, foster, spiritual mentorship, or otherwise.
Parenting is such a sacred responsibility. God has entrusted these children to us for a season while we’re on the earth, but He hasn’t asked us to do it alone. He’s given us His Word that is full of timely and applicable verses to help us along the way as we depend on Him to help us train, teach, nourish, and protect our kids. Whatever your parental position may be, I pray that the handful of meaningful verses above will encourage you greatly today and give you plenty to squawk about!
• HOPE FILLED PRAISE & WORSHIP
• RELEASING THE FATHER’S GOODNESS
• CHANGING THE ATMOSPHERE
West works at
with
Culprit Athletics: Redefining Athletics in Dalton & Chattanooga
Where Faith, Excellence, and Community Meet
Expansion: Culprit Dalton and Chattanooga
Culprit Athletics, a hub for sports excellence in Dalton, has now celebrated the one-year anniversary of its Chattanooga location. This expansion marks a new chapter of growth and commitment to fostering athletic brilliance across communities. Culprit Chattanooga proudly boasts gymnastics teams from levels 3 through 10 and is home to future trampoline gymnastics elite, Zeke Knowlton. The overwhelming demand has led to wait-listed classes, showing the facility's popularity and impact.
2024: A Banner Year for Culprit
Culprit Athletics continues to reach new heights in 2024. Luke Todd, was selected to the USA Junior National Team and earned a bronze medal at the Elite Challenge in 2024. His 2023 accomplishments include becoming the youngest member of USA Gymnastics’s Power Tumbling Team, the 13-14 Elite Boys National Champion, and securing 4th place at the World Age Group Championships in England. Looking ahead, Luke sets his sights on the 2025 Junior World Championships following the Paris Olympics, with aspirations for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Team Trials.
Faith at the Core of Our Mission
At Culprit Athletics, our mission goes beyond physical training. Rooted in Christian faith, founder Austin Culp explains, “We believe in the holistic development of our athletes—mind, body, and spirit. Our faith shapes our approach to coaching, instilling values such as integrity, perseverance, and compassion. We see sports as a platform for not only achieving personal bests but also for glorifying God and serving others.”
Parisi Speed Coach Dean Haynes: A Decade of Excellence
Dean Haynes, Culprit’s Parisi Speed Coach, earned the prestigious “Speed Coach of the Year” award, a culmination of 10 years of exceptional speed training in the Southeast. His expertise has been instrumental in the success of numerous NCAA athletes across divisions and professional sports players, adding speed, strength, and injury resiliency to their game.
Coach Dean often attributes his success to his faith, believing that his calling to coach is a God-given mission.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for following God’s calling on my life. It is part of my mission
to help others reach their goals, and use their God gifted talents to bring Him glory!” he shares. "It’s about helping them realize that they can achieve greatness through hard work and by trusting in God’s plan."
Member Testimonials: Real Stories, Real Success
Culprit Athletics members' satisfaction speaks volumes. Parents have seen their children transform into accomplished athletes and confident individuals. One parent's words, "My daughter joined Culprit 18 months ago. She has grown so much as a gymnast and as an athlete," reflect the profound personal and athletic growth with this organization. The commendation of coaches, Arika, Jordan, and TJ, for their inspiring and goal-oriented approach, underscores their commitment to excellence.
Another parent highlighted the importance of faith in their child’s development: "The Christian values upheld at Culprit Athletics have not only made my daughter a better athlete but also a better person. She’s learned the importance of discipline, teamwork, and trust in God’s guidance."
A Community of Champions: Culprit’s Impact
Culprit Athletics is more than a training facility; it's a community that fosters athletic prowess, teamwork, and personal growth. Austin Culp adds, “Our range of programs, from gymnastics to football, and our inclusive approach ensure that every individual, regardless of their background or skill level, finds a path to success. We take pride in creating an environment where athletes thrive, learn, and become part of a supportive community. Our coaches, led by the principles of faith, encourage athletes to see their training as part of a larger journey. By integrating prayer into our sessions and emphasizing the spiritual lessons that sports can teach, we help athletes develop a deeper understanding of their purpose and potential.”
Why Choose Culprit Athletics?
Choosing Culprit Athletics means embracing a culture of excellence, support, and faith. Whether in Dalton or Chattanooga, Culprit Athletics offers a comprehensive athletic experience that nurtures success and fosters a sense of belonging. Austin Culp adds, “We don't just train athletes; we build champions in sports and life.”
The facilities are equipped with top-tier equipment and staffed by dedicated professionals who share a common vision: to glorify God through our work and to uplift our community. You’ll find a team that believes a faith-based approach is key to unlocking the full potential of each athlete, allowing them to excel not just in sports but in all areas of life.
Integrating Faith and Athleticism
Can faith and athleticism work together? Culp explains, “At Culprit Athletics, we see faith and athleticism as complementary forces. We encourage our athletes to approach their training with a sense of purpose and dedication, viewing their efforts as a form of worship. This perspective helps them push through challenges and remain motivated, even in the face of setbacks.”
Success Stories: Beyond the Field
The success of Culprit Athletics is not just measured by medals and trophies but by the positive impact on their athletes’ lives. Many of their alumni have gone on to excel in their respective sports and professions, carrying with them the values and lessons learned at Culprit.
A former Culprit athlete who now coaches young athletes in his community gives credit to his time at Culprit Athletics for instilling in him the importance of faith, discipline, and hard work. He adds, "Culprit Athletics taught me that your faith is the foundation of coaching and athleticism. Where our human strength ends, God’s strength begins.”
Flight Camp: Soaring to New Heights
Our annual "Flight Camp" is a highlight of the year, bringing together coaches from across the USA and over six athletes from the Junior and Senior National Teams. This camp is a unique opportunity for both artistic and trampoline and tumbling athletes to learn from the best in the field. It's an intensive experience where athletes not only hone their skills but also build lasting friendships.
Culprit Athletics stands as a testament to the power of faith in achieving excellence. Through Christian values, expert coaching, and a supportive community, Culprit Atheltics continues to redefine what it means to be an athlete. Founder Austin Culp invites you, “Join us in Dalton or Chattanooga and experience the difference that faith can make in your athletic journey.”
THE TOTAL CHURCH EQUIPPING CONFERENCE
Cost: $15 Per Person
Thom S. Rainer is a renowned church leader, author, and consultant, currently serving as the founder and CEO of Church Answers, an online resource platform for church leaders. He previously held the positions of President and CEO at LifeWay Christian Resources and was the founding dean of the Billy Graham School of Missions and Evangelism at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. His expertise in church health led him to establish the Rainer Group, a consulting firm that has guided numerous churches and organizations. A prolific author, Rainer has contributed more than two dozen books to the field, including influential works such as “I Am a Church Member” and “Autopsy of a Deceased Church.”
SESSION TOPICS:
MISSIONS
• Steps to Recognize and Raise Up Missional Leaders in Your Church
• Getting Ready to Go NEXT GEN – KIDS
• Babysitter vs Influencer
• Leading a Child to Christ
• Starting a Special Needs Ministry in Your Church NEXT GEN – STUDENTS
• Six Things Every Volunteer Needs to Know to Work with Teenagers
• Navigating Best Practices for Discipling Teenagers
• Beyond Meat: Helps for those that lead youth Bible study
PASTOR WELLNESS
• Why Groups Matter: Small Group & Sunday School Training
• Winning the Church Back to Men
• The State of Manhood
• Key to Multiplying Gospel Impact Through Your Senior Adult Ministry
• First Impressions and Guest Services
• Fears in Disciple-making
• New Member Connection and Assimilation
• Open Your Church to Deaf People
• Teaching/Leading an Adult Class or Group
EVANGELISM
• The Power of Prayer in Evangelism
• The Five-Star Evangelistic Leader
MINISTRY ADMINISTRATION
• Artificial Intelligence and Your Ministry: The New Fuel for Efficiency and Impact
MISSION GEORGIA
• Navigating Trauma in the Church
• Four Keys to a Healthy Church
• UNLEASH!: 5 Strategies for Shaping a Church That’s Reaching, Discipling, and Deploying Young Leaders
• Deacon Ministry Foundations
• Current Trends and Common Practices in Turn-Around Churches
• Dealing Effectively with Church Conflict PUBLIC AFFAIRS
• Protecting Evangelism and Missions through Religious Freedom
• Reducing the Risk of Child Sexual Abuse in the Church WOMEN
• Five Essential Elements for Leading Women in the Local Church
• Women in Ministry WORSHIP & MUSIC
• Harmonizing Hearts: The Art of Being a Great Worship and Music Leader
• Sound & Vision: Elevating Worship Experiences Through Audio, Visual, and Livestream Mastery
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for Everyone
What Kind of God Do You Have?
by Dr. Alan Hix
Afew years ago, I had the privilege of tracing Paul’s steps in his second missionary journey. Most of the ancient cities of Turkey and Greece were built along a similar pattern, and each had temples to their patrons, gods, and rulers. However, when I came to Athens, I found a scene I had not encountered before, and I could better appreciate the apostle Paul’s response on his first visit to that city.
16 Now while Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him as he saw that the city was full of idols (Acts 17:16 ESV).
18 Some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers also conversed with him. And some said, “What does this babbler wish to say?” Others said, “He seems to be a preacher of foreign divinities”—because he was preaching Jesus and the resurrection. 19 And they took him and brought him to the Areopagus, saying, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? (Acts 17:18–19 ESV).
Standing on Mars Hill (Areopagus) just as Paul did, I had an amazing view of the Acropolis, containing the Parthenon and other temples. But the most arresting thing Paul would have seen would have been a 30-foot-tall statue of the goddess Athena. Ancient writers recorded that the top of her helmet and the tip of her spear could be seen as people approached the city.
The street descending to the Agora from Mars Hill is lined with statues of gods, heroes, and patrons about every 30 feet on both sides. It was here that Paul found an altar to “the unknown god.” Just in case they had overlooked someone, the Athenians wanted to cover themselves.
It was this altar to the unknown god that Paul used as an entrance for telling them about Jesus Christ. Standing in the midst of the Areopagus, Paul proclaimed the truth of the gospel to the Athenians. Probably gesturing all around him, Paul declared that our God is not confined to the limitations of earthly structures or man-made idols.
Furthermore, Paul boldly proclaimed the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Throughout Paul’s argument, the Athenians
had listened respectfully. But when he declared that Jesus was resurrected from the dead, that caused a great problem for the Athenians, because that went against the way they understood the world to work. The resurrection, more than anything else, was what set Jesus apart. If the resurrection was true, then they would have to turn their back on all the gods that littered the city. And that was something most of them were not willing to do.
Just like Athens with all its temples, altars, and statues, our lives are full of things that cry for our attention, that call for a response, that demand our allegiance. And if we are not careful, they will suck up all our time until there is nothing left. We might take a moment and offer up a prayer for God to bless our plans, actions, or circumstances, but that’s just like the Athenians' “unknown god.” We’re trying to cover all our bases.
But a resurrected Christ exposes our gods for what they are—shallow, selfish, and powerless. A resurrected Christ shows us that all those things that would call for our allegiance have an expiration date. They will pass away. And yet we spend so much of our lives chasing after things that do not last. Jesus offers us a life that will never pass away. Why should we rely on anything else?
is
of
University. In addition to being and educator, he has served churches as a pastor, been involved in mission trips to Africa, Canada, and Alaska, and participated in archaeological excavations in Israel for several years.
Dr. Alan Hix
Professor
Christian Studies at Shorter
for Everyone
Beach Flag Days – A Metaphor for Life
by Candyce Carden
You’re probably familiar with the color-coded flag system in place at the beach:
Green Flag - calm conditions and low risk
Yellow Flag - moderate surf or current; medium risk
Red Flag - high surf and strong current; extreme hazard threat
Double Red Flag - water is closed
Green flags fly less often. Occasionally, calm conditions prevail and present a low hazard risk.
from sleepless nights, and the dance of moving one step forward then two steps back, we cling to God.
And God draws us close, providing the peace, reassurance, and love we need. Satan doesn’t stand a chance during our Red Flag Days.
The Green Flag Days
The green flag days are the mountaintops for us. A heartfelt prayer is finally answered. We land the desired job.
A wayward child finally graduates college. Our mother is deemed cancer-free after months of chemo. During green flag days, our heart points to God. We rejoice and praise our Savior.
Yellow flags fly frequently at the Destin beach I visit. People don’t pay attention to these flags. The ocean fills with grownups and kids because the water doesn’t look threatening. All seems well.
Red flags are a rare sight in Destin. During the threat of the last summer’s Hurricane Idalia, I saw my first red flag. The water was ferocious and visitors avoided the thrashing waves—with the exception of a few thrill-seeking surfers. It struck me how beach flag days can serve as a metaphor for life.
The Red Flag Days
In the life of a Christian, the red flag days drive us to the safety of our Savior. We’re on high alert when we face health issues. Alarm bells clang when a sudden loss derails our carefully laid plans. Weighed down with anxiety, exhausted
Satan avoids us during these highs because our faith holds strong. He prefers to attack us when we’re down.
The Yellow Flag Days
Most of the time, life is a yellow flag day. There are a few bumps, some slightly shifting sand beneath our feet, but nothing we can’t handle. We sleepwalk through our days, meeting responsibilities with little friction. We grow bored with the sameness, taking God’s gifts for granted due to their sheer abundance. We’re more likely to drift from God during these days, unaware of the moderate rip current, the undertow of Satan. He’s sneaky and will do all he can to drive a wedge between us and God.
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8 NIV).
God arms us to fight Satan, even in our weakness. He protects our faith with His unlimited power. But we have to resist Satan’s pull by keeping our eyes on God, no matter what color the flag is.
Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes (Ephesians 6:11 NIV).
What color is your flag today?
for your Taste Buds
August Delights: A Calendar of Unique Designated Days
August is a month filled with delightful and quirky designated days, offering the perfect excuse to indulge in some unique and tasty celebrations. From cool treats to savory delights, here's a roundup of the designated days for August that you’ll want to make plans for!
August 2ndIce Cream Sandwich Day
Celebrate the perfect combination of creamy ice cream nestled between two delicious cookies or wafers. Feel free to purchase these or try making some with the family.
August 3rdWatermelon Day
Savor the refreshing and hydrating goodness of juicy watermelon. As temperatures rise, a slice of chilled watermelon becomes a delightful way to stay cool and hydrated while enjoying the essence of summer.
August 6th - Root Beer Float Day
Celebrate this classic American beverage, consisting of root beer and
vanilla ice cream. A fizzy and frothy delight that has been a favorite for generations, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
August 10thS'mores Day
If you have a sweet tooth, mark your calendar for this day dedicated to the gooey combination of marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers. Gather around a campfire or create a cozy indoor setup to enjoy this classic treat.
August 31stInternational and National Bacon Day
A savory celebration for bacon enthusiasts worldwide.
Whether you prefer it crispy or chewy, with lettuce and tomato, or candied with chocolate coating, there's no denying the irresistible allure of bacon!
August 31st is also Eat Outside Day. So feel free to take any of your favorites beyond the kitchen or dining room into nature’s space. Create an inviting spread at a picnic table, nibble on an ice cream cone during break, or munch a bacon filled sandwich for supper at the end of a busy day. Embrace the fun days of summer and especially the quirky days of August!
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The Apple Of My Eye
by Judy Hood
You’re the apple of my eye. To ever replace you, I need not try. When I stand upon your word, You always hear me, I’m always heard. For you’re the One who walks with me, You are the Master of my sea.
Like in the days of old, When Noah showed you his love, very bold. He didn’t care what people said. He built a boat like he was led. When the rains came, and it poured, The doubters drowned as they knocked on the door.
Noah had warned them of their inevitable plight. The rains will come forty days and nights. But they were indignant; they would not try to understand The ways of God. They only looked to man. Now they are dead, as heaven knows, God sent His promise to man in a gorgeous rainbow.
Solo confía
por Kody Fox
Entre los muchos milagros que Jesús realizó durante su estancia en la tierra, se encuentra la historia de Jairo y su hija a punto de morir en el capítulo 5 de Marcos. Jairo era un líder de la sinagoga y formaba parte de una facción religiosa que despreciaba lo que hacía Jesús. De hecho, si se le ocurría acercarse a Jesús con una petición semejante, lo más probable era que perdiera su cargo. Pero Jairo estaba desesperado. Su hija se estaba muriendo y él había oído que Jesús hacía milagros.
recibieron la noticia de que la hija de Jairo había muerto. Jairo debió de haberse sentido tan desolado en ese momento al enterarse de su terrible pérdida. La noticia que recibió confirmó su sentir en ese momento: que habían llegado demasiado tarde. No había nada que hacer.
Pero Jesús tenía palabras distintas para él, así como las tiene hoy para todos nosotros: "No tengas miedo, solo confía". No importa la situación por la que estés pasando en este momento, ya sea enfermedad, problemas matrimoniales o económicos. Cuando nos despojamos del miedo que el enemigo trata de usar para mantenernos paralizados y "solo confiamos", podemos descansar confiados en que Jesús está obrando para nuestro bien.
Así que Jairo fue a buscarlo para pedirle que le impusiera las manos y así salvar a su hija. Tal vez hayas experimentado lo mismo en tu propia vida, y hayas acudido a Jesús desesperado porque tú o un ser querido necesitaban un milagro. Mientras Jesús iba con Jairo a ver a su hija, le detuvo abruptamente en el camino una mujer con flujo de sangre. Ella tocó el borde de su manto y quedó curada, un milagro que la mayoría de nosotros conocemos. Pero, ¿te has puesto alguna vez en el lugar de Jairo? Él veía cómo Jesús interactuaba con esta mujer mientras su hija agonizaba. Me lo imagino pensando: "¡Vamos, Jesús! ¡No hay tiempo que perder!". Esta mujer estaba enferma, pero su hija estaba al borde de la muerte. ¿Qué era más urgente? La Biblia dice que Jesús aún no había terminado de hablar cuando
La Escritura dice que Jesús llegó a la casa de Jairo y ahí encontró literalmente un funeral, en donde familiares y amigos lloraban la pérdida de su hija. Pero el funeral no duró mucho tiempo. Jesús lo convirtió en una celebración. Jairo descubrió, en ese momento, que no importaban las palabras de los demás acerca de su situación o la de su hija, lo único que importaba eran las palabras de Jesús. Por lo tanto, no importa a qué te enfrentes hoy, recuerda que las palabras de Jesús hacia Jairo son las mismas que te dice a ti. No dejes que el miedo se apodere de ti; cree que ese Jesús que tocaba vidas hace 2 mil años, sigue haciéndolo hoy en día.
En Romanos 8, el apóstol Pablo nos dice: "en todo esto somos más que vencedores por medio de aquel que nos amó. Pues estoy convencido de que ni la muerte ni la vida, ni los ángeles ni los demonios, ni lo presente ni lo por venir, ni los poderes, ni lo alto ni lo profundo, ni cosa alguna en toda la creación podrá apartarnos del amor que Dios nos ha manifestado en Cristo Jesús nuestro Señor". Él está acostumbrado a devolverles la vida a las cosas muertas, así que "no temas, solo confía", aunque el diablo te diga que es tiempo de un funeral.
for Health & Fitness
Cardiorespiratory Fitness is a Key to a Longer Life
by Thomas Morrison
If you have ever thought about, not only living longer, but living better, then this article is for you. In 2016, the American Heart Association (AHA) released a position statement in their journal, Circulation, calling for the routine assessment of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). It seems the weight of the evidence has become overwhelming and fitness levels are now officially recognized as “a potentially stronger predictor of mortality than established risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes mellitus…” It is now recognized by the largest non-profit organization dedicated to fighting our biggest killers that exercise capacity is a more powerful predictor of mortality than the other risk factors we typically screen for and treat.
What is Cardiorespiratory Fitness (CRF)?
“Cardio” stands for the heart and blood vessels and “respiratory” for the lungs and breathing muscles. Fitness revolves around your body’s ability to take in oxygen, pump it to your working muscles, and have them use it efficiently (extract it from the blood and use it to make energy). It is measured with a volume of oxygen (VO2) max test. The greater your score, the less likely you are to be at risk for cardiovascular diseases, as well as dementia and Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and several types of cancer as well, including lung, breast, and gastrointestinal cancers. This is why the AHA is now recommending you get your fitness levels tested regularly and seek to increase your level.
One study in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Oncology, reported about ½ the risk of getting lung or colorectal cancer or dying of heart disease among men who attained a CRF level (or VO2 max) of 45 or better vs. 30 or less. In real world terms, that is the ability to run/walk about 1.5 miles in 12 minutes vs. only getting a little past a mile in the same time frame. Or, if running is not your thing, you could make a similar improvement by increasing your cycling distance from 2.5 miles in 12 minutes to 3.75 miles (females may need to scale these distances down by about 12%). Many different modalities could be used including swimming, dancing, stair climbing, elliptical trainers, or the like.
How Do You Increase CRF?
Endurance exercise that increases your heart rate and keeps it elevated for a time is best for increasing CRF. For this, we are talking about anything that gets your hips and legs moving continuously for at least 10-12 minutes and 30-45 is usually better. CRF is more responsive to intensity than frequency or duration, so doing short bursts of 2-5 minutes that get you really huffing and puffing works best! Three to five such bursts with enough active rest in between to catch your breath (usually two to three minutes) works well. Adding a training day or two like that to your usual easier, longer exercise times works very well for building up your CRF.
Testing Your CRF Levels
To publish an official statement recommending that all adults estimate CRF routinely, like cholesterol or blood pressure, because of “mounting evidence” is some of the most important information to hit the exercise and fitness industry in many years. To determine your own CRF (or VO2 max) levels reliably, there is an online calculator you can use at: www.ntnu. edu/cerg/vo2max or you can contact the Bradley Wellness Center fitness staff (just ask for Tom!) since we have several different tests we can use. Please act soon to discover your CRF level. It is one of the best things you can do for your health!
Thomas Morrison is the fitness coordinator and a personal trainer at Bradley Wellness Center in Dalton, Georgia, where he has served for the past 23 years.
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Habla Español (Speak Spanish)
for the Grieving
The Dash
by Lena Barber
Finding the significance of the dash (birth-death) is essential in furrowing through loss. If you have ever suffered a loss, you find that it is not only hard to get back to ‘normal life’ as you know it prior to the heart-wrenching casualty, you find also that it is virtually impossible to get back to ‘normal life’ without finding purpose, meaning, or significance, even if it doesn’t provide you with the answer to “Why?’!
A ’nugget’ of loss is feeling deep compassion and empathy for another’s loss. It’s the group that nobody wants to join yet you find amazing folks who share heartache and grieving collectively and in the community. Isolation can be a grave of its own.
Recently, I had the opportunity to be with folks who had significant losses and there is a brevity shared as we talk about the navigation of it all in a language that cannot be understood unless experienced. We are looking for ways to share the one who died so they are known to have had significance in this world… their dash (–) meant something, however long or short. They were meaningful to us and we miss their very presence. They had purpose and to keep their memory and existence alive is important! Their lives impacted us. The love they provided will never die and it is left to us to make that a reality.
Getting one foot out of bed to touch the floor is a chore when all you want to do is go back to sleep to get the reprieve from the grief you long for. As you numbingly go through the necessary paperwork, the funeral, the burial or cremation, with help from friends and family, you proceed to all the adjustments of your ‘new’ normal. Life goes on for everyone else and you are expected to adjust quickly.
Sometimes the significance of the dash is obvious, specifically if your loved one fought a life-threatening illness long and hard or if your loved one was taken swiftly through an accident that was out of their control. You may find some significant meaning by focusing on fundraising for a cure, starting a non-profit to educate and prevent further losses in your community, or just fixing a pot of kraut and painting a pumpkin for someone who has walked your deepest valleys with you.
After my daughter Katie’s sudden, unexpected death on July 27, 2021, I took half of her cremains to her fiancé in Grantham, England. I saw it as a mission, a sojourn of sorts. I wanted to stay in the hotel she had stayed in on countless visits from the past 7 years. I wanted to let the people she got to know and love that she had gone, but how meaningful they were in her life. I found a grocery store with unusual pumpkins and painted them with the 3 colors I brought with me. It was a week full of tears, memories, and hugs and it was significant to be able to represent her to the people she loved one more time. I was able to show her picture, find those who recognized her, and leave them with a token representing Katie. It was fulfilling, and connecting, and I believe she left a mark. There is indeed significance in the dash!
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for Everyone
The Scorched Places
by Dorothy Teague
In 2023, there was a terrible wildfire that swept through the island of Maui, Hawaii, specifically, the town of Lahaina. The reason it started is not known but there were several factors that were thought to have started it. Those mentioned are drought, coupled with strong winds which took down power lines that sparked the fires. There was also the problem of invasive grasses that covered abandoned plantations that fueled the wildfires. Eighty-six percent of the residential area was leveled in Lahaina, thus displacing nearly ten thousand residents! Sadly, at least one hundred were killed during this tragic event (nbcnews.com).
A fire of epic proportions happened closer to home in 2016 in the Great Smoky Mountains/Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It has been reported as one of the largest natural disasters in the history of Tennessee, claiming 14 lives, injuring 190, and burning 17,900 acres. Fourteen thousand residents and tourists were forced to evacuate (Wikipedia). In both of these cases, families could not return to their homes because they were no longer there. Buildings were decimated, grass and trees were scorched, and animals were dead or scattered to places as far from the fires as possible. They could not return, because there was nothing to go back to.
There have been times in my life when the once familiar places became scorched places. They became uninhabitable and leaving was necessary. Trials are going to sweep through our lives like wildfires, trying to destroy everything and everyone in its path, resulting in broken relationships,
and divided families, churches, and communities. There’s no way to escape going through some storms of life. We just have to walk through them to leave the scorched land behind. But God promised in Isaiah 43:2 NKJV that “… when you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” Jesus walked through the fire with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego when they were thrown into the fiery furnace by King Nebuchadnezzar recorded in Daniel 3, and He will always walk through the fire with His children. He has promised never to leave us or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV).
When the familiar places we have walked no longer look the same because the landmarks have been destroyed, we can easily lose our bearings. It may seem as though we are traveling in a desert where a clear road ahead is hard to find. That’s why it is so important to listen to God’s voice and let Him lead the way. He always makes a way where there seems to be no way (Isaiah 43:15-16 NIV).
The sun can scorch land when it gets hot and we go through a drought, but it also illuminates. Lightning during a storm at night may connect with the ground and scorch the earth but it, too, illuminates and drives away the darkness. So, there are positive and negative effects of each. That is just like life. We may think that what is happening to us at the time is bad. When life as we have known it, gets scorched beneath our feet. But sometimes that is God’s way of prodding us onward to get on the path where He would have us. He always has a better plan for us than we could possibly come up with.
So, if you find that you are walking through the scorched places of life, just remember Isaiah 58:10-11 NIV, “And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong. You shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.”
Dorothy Teague is a Tennessee native, who resides in McMinn County with her husband, Lewis, on their farm.
Dalton Church Directory
Assembly of God
Christian Fellowship Assembly
3656 Chattanooga Road, 30755
706-280-7594
The Sanctuary 515 Reed Rd NW, 30720 706-270-2088
The Healing Center Church 515 Reed Road, 30720 706-229-9456
Baptist
Abundant Life Baptist Church 811 J and J, 30721
706-278-5289
Antioch Baptist Church
1205 Antioch Road, 30720 706-278-1305
Beaverdale Baptist Church 2496 Beaverdale Rd NW, 30721 706-259-7089
Calvary Baptist Church 2115 Chatsworth Rd, 30721 706-278-6324
Carolyn Baptist Church 2305 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-8142
Centerpoint Baptist Church 420 Centerpoint Drive SE, 30721 706-277-2100
Christ Reformed Baptist Church 1378 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-226-3026
Concord Baptist Church 1054 Hopewell Rd, Cohutta 30710
706-694-8618
Cove Baptist Fellowship Church 461 Carbondale Rd SW, 30721 706-277-3484
Crown View Baptist Church 502 West Tyler St, 30720 706-278-7422
Deep Springs Baptist Church 1660 Beaverdale Rd NE, 30721 706-259-3255
Dug Gap Baptist Church 2031 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-278-2377
Eastbrook Baptist Church 204 Hill Rd, 30720 Eastside Baptist Church 913 East Morris St, 30721 706-278-8553
Eleventh Avenue Baptist Church 2550 South Dalton Bypass, 30722 706-278-7020
Emmaus Baptist Church
4268 S. Dixie Rd, 30735 706-483-5251
First Baptist Church 802 Kenner St, 30721 706-226-9681
First Baptist Church of Dalton 311 North Thornton Ave, 30720
706-278-2911
Grace Baptist Church 2049 Lower Kings Bridge Rd, 30721
706-537-6884
Good Hope Baptist Church
2525 Lake Francis Rd, 30721
706-259-3719
Grove Level Baptist Church
2802 Cleveland Highway, 30721
706-259-8519
Good Samaritan Baptist Church 3137 Cleveland Rd, 30721
706-259-7239
Gospelway Baptist Church
336 Jupiter Cir, 30721
706-278-1424
Grace Baptist Church
2049 Lower Kings Bridge Rd, 30721
706-537-6884
Harmony Baptist Church
187 Lower Dawnville Rd, 30721
706-226-5521
Harvest Baptist Church
3986 Cleveland Hwy, 30721
706-694-8951
Hill Crest Baptist Church
1901 Cityview St, 30720
706-279-1267
Hopewell Baptist Church
3527 Airport Rd, 30721
706-226-5987
Kinsey Drive Baptist Church 2626 Kinsey Drive,30720
706-277-3505
Lakeshore Park Baptist Church 12 Crescent St, 30720
706-275-6050
Liberty Baptist Church 506 South Pentz St, 30720
706-226-5535
Lindsey Memorial Baptist
706-673-7650
3503 Lindsey Memorial Rd.
Rocky Face, Ga. 30740
Macedonia Baptist Church
1355 Dawnville Rd NE, 30721
706-259-9220
Maple Grove Baptist Church
347 Maple Grove Rd, 30721
706-483-6300
McFarland Hill Baptist Church
307 Brickyard Rd, 30721
706-277-5521
Mount Rachel Baptist Church
332 Haig Mill Lake Rd, 30720
706-278-5192
Mount Ridge Baptist Church
1401 M L King, Jr. Blvd, 30721
706-278-0335
New Hope Baptist Church
900 Roan St, 30721
706-226-2093
New Hope Baptist Church
706-673-8050
2105 Tunnel Hill-Varnell Road
Tunnel Hill, GA 30755
New Life Baptist Church
2620 Old Grade Rd, 30721
Northwest Georgia Baptist Church
222 North Pentz St, 30720
706-463-3490
Olivia Baptist Church
1817 Guy St, 30720
706-278-3507
Pine Grove Baptist Church
4004 Airport Road, 30721
706-264-8630
Poplar Springs Baptist Church
897 Poplar Springs Rd, 30720
706-259-8727
Reformation Baptist Church
244 N. Hamilton St, 30720
706-314-8711
Rocky Face Baptist Church
1544 Rocky Face Railroad St, 30740
706- 226-5751
Salem Baptist Church
1448 Pleasant Grove Dr, 30721
706-259-7045
South Dalton Baptist Church 498 Lakemont Drive, 30720
706-278-4946
Shiloh Baptist Church
2014 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, 30721 706-226-5981
Temple Baptist Church 2310 South Dixie Hwy, 30720
706-226-6785
Valley Baptist Church 2907 Old Rome, 30720
Welcome Hill Baptist Church 2772 E Welcome Hill Circle, 30721 706-278-0368
Whitfield Baptist Church 2134 Dug Gap Rd, 30721 706-278-6776
Bible
Fellowship Bible Church 2044 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-278-6269
Catholic
Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church 968 Haig Mill Lake Rd, 30720 706-278-3107
Christian
First Christian Church 1506 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-278-7244
Church of Christ
Central Church of Christ 515 N. Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-278-8051
Riverbend Church of Christ 2218 S Riverbend Rd, 30721 706-226-0819
Church of God
Church of God of Union Assembly 2311 South Dixie Rd, 30720 706-275-0510
City View Church of God 3688 Chatsworth Hwy, 30721 706-226-6686
Crosspointe 2681 Underwood Street 30721 706-278-2649
Lifegate Church 2744 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-0016
Valley Brook Church of God 1474 Mineral Springs Rd, 30720 706-279-3296
Community
Church on the Hill 1035 Abutment Rd, 30721 706-278-9208
Community Fellowship Church 409 North Fredrick St, 30721 706-278-3204
Freedom Community Church 908 Elk Street, 30720 706-463-2690
The River Community Church 2410 Cleveland Hwy, Suite 112, 30721 678-314-7994
Rock Bridge Community Church 121 W Crawford St, 30720
Episcopal
Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church 901 West Emory St, 30720
706-278-8857
Jehovah’s Witnesses
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1309 Applewood Drive, 30720 706-529-0192
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1817 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-270-0156
Latter-day Saints
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 610 Shugart Rd, 30720 706-278-5295
Lutheran
Christ the King Lutheran Church 623 S Thornton Ave, 30720 706-278-3979
Methodist
Bethel AME Church
620 Spring Street, 30720 706-226-2714
Bethel UMC 123 Bethel Church Rd, 30721 706-278-3309
Dalton First UMC 500 South Thornton Ave, 30720 706-278-8494
Fairview UMC 735 Riverbend Rd, 30721 706-996-5057
Five Springs UMC 2823 Five Springs Rd, 30720 706-277-3928
Mineral Springs UMC 4079 Airport Road, 30721 706-517-0200
Mt. Vernon UMC 597 Lafayette Road Rocky Face, GA 30740 706-673-4667
New Haven UMC 4040 South Dixie Highway, 30721 706-217-1879
Pleasant Grove Methodist 2701 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-3141
Sugar Valley UMC 503 Murry Hill Dr, 30720 706-280-9112
Trinity UMC 901 Veterans Dr, 30721 706-278-4042
Varnell United Methodist Church 3485 Highway 2 Cohutta, 30710 706-694-8023
Wesley Chapel UMC 808 Jamestown CT, 30721 706-270-2331
Nazarene
First Church of the Nazarene 2325 Chattanooga Rd, 30720 706-278-8428
Grace Church of the Nazarene 1111 Nelson St, 30721
706-278-1171
Non-Denominational
Abundant Life Bible Church 901 Chester Road, 30721 706-270-9733
Bridging the Gap Ministries 514 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, 30721
706-277-7575
Relentless Worship Center
210 Robinwood Dr, 30721
706-313-1129
Dalton House Of Prayer
897 College Dr, Conference Rm 3, 30720
706-915-6545
Dawnville Community Church 1409 Dawnville Rd NE, 30721
706-259-5342
Good Neighbors Church 910 South Thornton Ave, 30720
706-226-0846
Gospel Light Tabernacle 804 Sheridan Ave, 30721
Grace Fellowship Ministries 620 N Glenwood Ave 2&3, 30721 706-280-1375
Northwest Christian Fellowship
272 Main St, Varnell, GA 30756
706-694-9830
River of Life Church of Dalton 2919 East Walnut Ave, 30721
706-965-6683
Saint James Overcoming Church
400 North Fredrick St, 30721
706-278-0319
Tunnel Hill Community Church
706-673-4022
121 North Varnell Road
Tunnel Hill, GA 30755
Pentecostal
Iglesia de Dios Pentecostal Fuente de Agua Viva 1007 Underwood St, 30721
706-278-4963
La Senda Antigua
308 East Matilda St, 30720
706-270-8826
True Gospel Pentecostal Church
109 South Henderson St, 30721
706-278-5696
Shadow Ridge Worship Center 122 Wheat Drive Varnell, GA 30721
706-280-4546
Presbyterian
ChristChurch Presbyterian 510 South Tibbs Rd, 30720
706-529-2911
First Presbyterian Church
101 S. Selvidge St, 30720
706-278-8161
Grace Presbyterian Church
2107 Threadmill Rd, 30720
706-226-6344
Salvationalist
Salvation Army 1109 N. Thornton Ave, 30722
706-278-3966
Seventh Day Adventist 3 Angels Hispanic SDA
701 E Morris St, 30721
706-618-1182
Dalton Hispanic SDA 112 W Long St, 30720
706-275-0523
Dalton SDA Church
300 South Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-226-2166
Chatsworth Church Directory
Baptist
Blue Ridge Primitive Baptist Church
706-517-9849
134 Hyden Tyler Road
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Calvary Baptist Church
706-695-7747
Highway 225 North
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Center Hill Baptist Church
706-695-7988
65 Berry Bennett Road
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Cisco Baptist Church
706-695-9270
Highway 411 North
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Cool Springs Baptist Church
706-517-5388
Holly Creek Cool
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Fellowship Baptist Church
706-695-2626
4396 Highway 52
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US First Baptist Church
706-695-2112
121 West Market Street
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Flat Branch Baptist Church
706-695-2663
3443 Highway 286
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Free Hope Baptist Church
706-695-3717
4176 Highway 76
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Holly Creek Baptist Church
706-695-8522
422 Holly Creek
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Liberty Baptist Church 4221 US-76, Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Little Consauga Baptist Church
706-517-5733
1100 Sugar Creek
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Maranatha Baptist Church
706-695-6330
Highway 225 South
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Mount Pisgah Baptist Church
706-517-8944
2309 Old Highway 411
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
New Hope Baptist Church
706-517-3089
1273 New Hope Road
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
New Prospect Baptist Church
706-629-9521
7629 Highway 225
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Old Fashion Baptist Church
706-695-5420
885 Ben Adams Road
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Open Air Ministries
706-386-484
1058 Mtn Crest Dr.
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Prayer Baptist Church
706-624-9216
10859 Hwy. 225 South
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Shinning Light Baptist Church
706-517-1739
801 North 5th Avenue
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Smyrna Baptist Church
706-695-5815
1913 Smyrna Church Road
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Spring Place Baptist Church
706-695-5532
441 Highway 225 South
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Total Praise Baptist Church
706-695-6441
1461 Greeson Bend Rd,
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Zion Hill Baptist Church
706-517-5913
Highway 225 North
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Bible
Grace Bible Church
2599 Leonard Bridge Rd.
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Church of Christ
Woodhaven Church of Christ
706-847-7400
508 West Peachtree Street
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Church of God
Chatsworth Church of God
706-695-9388
Highway 411 South
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Central Community Church
706-695-4242
60 Pine Hills Drive
Chatsworth, GA 30705
Spring Place Church of God
706-695-8000
717 Tibbs Bridge Road
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Full Gospel
Faith Worship Center
706-695-6866
189 Hyden Tyler Road
Chatsworth GA 30705
House Of Prayer
616 Jenkins Road
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Methodist
Casey Springs UMC
7250 Chastworth Highway South
Chastworth, GA 30705
Center Valley UMC
706-971-4646
5394 Highway 225 North
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
First United Methodist Church
706-695-3211
107 W Cherokee Street
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Fullers Chapel UMC
2144 Fuller’s Chapel Rd
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Mineral Springs UMC
71 North Way St
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Spring Place UMC
706-695-5143
Po Box 248
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Non-Denominational
God’s Light House
784 Smyrna Church Road
Chatsworth, GA 30705
The Church of God of the Union Assembly at Chatsworth, GA
706-695-7335
Highway 52 Alternate Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Liberty Tabernacle
706-517-3140
2196 Smyrna Church Road
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Living Word Christian Fellowship
706-695-5005
960 Cherokee Drive
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
New Beginnings Ministries
706-695-6067
646 Floodtown Road
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US North Gate Church
706-548-4967
7727 Highway 225 South
Chatsworth, GA 30755 US Tabernacle of Praise
706-517-0377
1435 Leonard Bridge Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Wings Of Faith Ministries 706-695-1527
1122 North Holly Drive
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Pentecostal
Victory Tabernacle 706-517-1458
355 Ellijay Street
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
A Place to Worship 706-517-8568
259 Old Landfill Rd Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Presbyterian Sumach Presbyterian Church 706-695-4773
2089 Sumach Church Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Seventh Day Adventist
Seventh-Day Adventist Church
706-517-5124
1115 Highway 52
Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
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