Gò0dNews
Fill your life with more living
Overcoming cancer gave Jaime a new outlook on life. But it was support from friends, family, coworkers and strangers that made her feel the most alive. In the toughest times, Jaime rediscovered all the good around her, and all the hope left to be found.
About Us
WRITERS
Ande Frazier
Bill Silvers
Donald Cantrell
Erin Clay
Garrett Nudd
Hayden Lanier
Jan Merop
Dr. Jeff Dabbs
Monica Gambrell
Tammy Madden
Timothy Tate
Zebbie Brewster
SALES
Matthew Ruckman
423-503-1410
Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com
DESIGN
Caleb Prytherch
Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Kate Walton
Email: kate@studio-kate.com
GoodNews Rome
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/goodnewsrome
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.
dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
The Value of Community
by Dr. Jeff Dabbs
Let’s face it—our culture prizes independence. From the time we’re young, we are told to “stand on our own two feet” and “make it on our own.” While responsibility and maturity are important, the Bible consistently reminds us that God never designed us to do life alone. We were created for community.
In fact, from the very beginning, God declared, “It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18 NASB). That statement wasn't just about marriage; it revealed a larger truth about human nature. Isolation diminishes us, but community strengthens us.
The fact is that we need each other’s strength. The writer of Ecclesiastes put it this way, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NASB).
Life is full of falls—discouragement, setbacks, temptations, losses. When those moments come, having someone to pick us up can make all the difference. Community provides strength we don’t have on our own.
Think of a single log in a fire. If it’s pulled out of the flames, it quickly cools and burns out. But when logs are piled together, the fire blazes hotter and lasts longer. The same is true for us: together, our faith burns brighter.
Spiritual growth isn’t a solo project. Hebrews 10:2425 NASB reminds us, “Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”
God designed us to grow through encouragement, accountability, and shared worship. Left on our own, we can drift into complacency or discouragement. But in community, we are reminded that we are not alone and that others are cheering us on toward Christlikeness.
Jesus said the world would recognize His disciples by their love for one another (John 13:35). Community isn’t just about what it does for us — it’s also about what it shows to the world. When people see believers loving each other
and
That means our fellowship is more than social connection. It’s a living testimony. Community becomes an evangelistic tool when our relationships reflect the grace and truth of Jesus.
Community doesn’t happen by accident; it happens by intention. Here are a few key ways to cultivate it:
1. Commit to a local church. Community begins when we plant ourselves in a body of believers and invest, rather than just attend.
2. Join a small group or Bible study. Sharing life and Scripture in smaller circles builds deeper bonds.
3. Practice hospitality. Invite others into your home for a meal, coffee, or conversation. Community grows around tables.
4. Be honest and available. True fellowship requires vulnerability and presence. Don’t just share your victories—share your struggles as well.
In a world that encourages isolation and self-sufficiency, God calls us to something richer, a life woven together with others. Community is where burdens are carried, faith is strengthened, and love is displayed.
As Proverbs 27:17 NASB reminds us, “Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” That’s the value of community—and it’s something every heart needs.
Dr. Jeff Dabbs is the senior pastor at Spring Creek Baptist Church, Rome, Georgia. He has authored Sunday School material and several books.
sacrificially, forgiving quickly,
serving joyfully, it gives them a picture of Christ’s love.
for Everyone
Looking for the Kingdom
by Hayden Lanier
In the Bible, there are some lesser-known heroes we can learn a lot from. One such person is Joseph of Arimathea. We know from all four gospels that a man named Joseph from the town of Arimathea buried Jesus. From these accounts, we can gather a good deal of information about Joseph.
We know that Joseph was rich (Matthew 27:57). He was also a very important person in the religious society of the day. We also know that when he asked Pilate to bury Jesus’ body, this took courage on Joseph’s part (Mark 15:43).
This helps us understand a little bit about who Joseph of Arimathea is, but some other details tell us about why he went to such great lengths to care for the body of Jesus after He was crucified. Matthew tells us that Joseph was a disciple of Jesus (Matthew 27:57), and John adds that his following Jesus was carried out “secretly for fear of the Jews” (John 19:38 ESV). However, the part I want to focus on is what the gospels of Mark and Luke say about Joseph. They both mention that he was “looking for the kingdom of God” (Mark 15:43, Luke 23:51 ESV). Most translations will say that Joseph was “waiting” for the Kingdom of God, or looking forward to it.
time, the Pharisees asked Jesus when God’s Kingdom would come. His answer was surprising: “The kingdom of God is not coming in ways that can be observed…for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you” (Luke 17:20-21 ESV).
For those who know Jesus and have trusted in His death on their behalf, we get to experience the Kingdom of God today and every day. We don’t have to wait for eternity to live in this Kingdom. Instead, we can pray as Jesus taught us, “[God’s] kingdom come, [God’s] will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10 ESV). Are you looking for
How ironic that the man who was waiting for the Kingdom of God buried the one who brought about this Kingdom.
Like Joseph, in a sense, we look forward to the Kingdom of God, too. We long for the day when Jesus returns to bring all His children to Himself and put an eternal end to sin and death. On that day, the Kingdom of God will be fully realized, and we look forward to and long for it! But for those of us who know Jesus, as Joseph of Arimathea did, the Kingdom of God is now. We don’t have to wait for this future day to enjoy and experience the presence of God. When Jesus began His earthly ministry, He declared, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15 ESV). Another
the Kingdom? You might not realize that you are, or phrase it that way, but you’re searching for something. You’re looking for fulfillment, joy, and satisfaction, and everywhere you look seems to disappoint.
Look no further than the tomb that Joseph of Arimathea buried Christ in; for Jesus did not stay in Joseph’s tomb, but on the third day, He rose again and is now “seated at the right hand of God” (Colossians 3:1 ESV). If you’re looking for the Kingdom of God, look to Jesus. He brought God’s Kingdom to us and made a way for us to live in it.
Hayden Lanier is a follower of Jesus, a graduate of Shorter University, and he works as an elementary school teacher.
WWhen
It
hen Tony Bennett passed away, headlines didn’t focus on his legendary voice. They focused on family conflict. It’s easy to look at celebrity estate disputes and think, “that would never happen in my family.” But here’s what I’ve learned after years of walking families through estate conversations:
Most estate problems don’t start with bad people. They start with good people avoiding hard conversations. Let’s look at a few of the most common mistakes.
1. “Once one spouse dies, we’ll just adjust.”
When the first spouse passes, everything changes, emotionally and financially. Unfortunately, that’s exactly when decisions are often made quickly and without full coordination.
I’ve seen widows remove children from trust roles out of grief. I’ve seen asset titles changed without updating beneficiary designations. I’ve seen new advisors brought in without reviewing the existing legal structure. An estate plan isn’t static. It must be reviewed after major life events. Grief is not the time to improvise.
2. “My kids know what I want. They’ll work it out.”
They might. But intentions are not instructions.
I cannot tell you how many times I’ve heard, “Dad told me I’d get the lake house,” while the documents say something entirely different. When clarity is missing, siblings are left to interpret. Interpretation quickly turns into resentment. If you want peace after you’re gone, put it in writing — and communicate it while you’re here.
3. “My attorney handles everything.”
Attorneys are essential. Truly. But most estate attorneys draft documents based on the information they are given. They often are not reviewing:
• Investment allocations
• Beneficiary designations
• Business succession plans
“They’ll Figure
Out”
Is Not a
Plan Money Moves Ande Frazier with
• Insurance structures
• Cash flow realities
Estate documents without financial coordination can create unintended outcomes. I’ve seen trusts funded improperly. I’ve seen tax consequences that could have been avoided. I’ve seen “equal” distributions that weren’t actually equal. Planning is not just about documents. It’s about strategy.
4. “I want to be fair to my children.”
Fair does not always mean equal. Some parents have one financially responsible child and one who struggles. Some have one child deeply involved in the family business and others who are not.
Avoiding this reality doesn’t protect your children; it burdens them. The goal is not to treat every child identically. The goal is to make intentional decisions that reflect your values, protect your legacy, and reduce unnecessary conflict. That takes thoughtful design, not wishful thinking.
Estate planning is not about death. It’s about stewardship. It’s about asking:
• Who do I trust?
• What is this money meant to do?
• How do I protect relationships, not just assets?
The best plans are built collaboratively: legal, financial, and family conversations aligned. If you assume everyone will “figure it out,” they might. But they may figure it out in a courtroom. You worked too hard for that.
At the end of the day, estate planning is an act of love. It’s deciding that your family’s relationships matter more than assumptions. That clarity matters more than convenience. That legacy is about more than dollars.
My role is to help families think through these decisions thoughtfully—aligning legal documents with financial strategy and family realities, so what you leave behind is peace, not confusion.
If that conversation feels overdue, I’m here to help guide it.
OVERALL BALL
Slip on your favorite overalls and join us for a one-of-a-kind evening packed with high-energy entertainment, delicious food, and unbeatable community spirit—all in support of Habitat for Humanity Coosa Valley.
SATURDAY, APRIL 25 6:00PM
ò0 dNews for Men
What About Those Other People?
by Donald Cantrell
We are headed straight into the holiday season of honoring others, as we celebrate Mother’s Day in May and Father’s Day in June. It is awesome to be able to give the proper accolades to those moms and dads who have played such an important role in our lives.
If you grew up in a home that maintained the family structure of one mother and one father, then you were lucky, but even more so if you grew up in that family and had two parents that were lovingly involved in your life because that is not even close to the reality of most families in this age.
Sadly, not everyone was blessed enough to have a mom or a dad who was there for them or who even loved them. On the other hand, there are so many people who go through life and never receive the proper credit or accolades. If you are one of “Those Others,” then you know exactly whom I am talking about.
Many people found their guidance through another source, other than a mom or a dad, as someone took their place out of necessity. What about those moms who were placed in a tough situation of being a mom and a dad to their children or that dad who had to fulfill the role of being a mom to his children?
Many of you found that love and direction over at a friend’s house, as you realized things were so different in another household. You would go there to spend the night, but while there you found love and safety. It seems like the world needs more of those safe haven families for kids to find refuge and love.
I hate the word “Stepmom or Stepdad” because they are often put in a peculiar spot, and often are given a bad
In this age, we have so many grandparents who not only raised their children, but they wholeheartedly stepped in when others stepped out, and they lovingly raised their grandchildren as if they were their own children. If not for these wondrous people, our world would be in a very dark place.
Some people found their guidance through other venues. Maybe it was a teacher at school who helped change their course in life. What about those sports coaches who go at warp speed pace, yet they have time to invest in a kid who is on the wrong course, so they desperately devote time to that needy kid?
rap. Many of you could vouch for being loved and guided by a godly stepmom or stepdad. The world does not have enough holidays to recognize “Those Others,” but you can recognize them.
I want to challenge you to send out a card, make a visit, or give them a call, so you can recognize “Those Others” who have played such a vital role in helping you make it in life. The world seems to be so big, but we can make it much smaller, if we are also willing to be one of “Those Others” and help people!
About The Author
is a lifelong
of
and has been pastoring and preaching since 1980. He has had the honor of publishing over thirty books and his sermon material is sold all over the world by various online companies. If you visit his house any weekend in the fall you will find them watching the “Florida Gators or the New England Patriots… Chomp Chomp.”
Donald Cantrell
native
Murray county
A Daily Walk, Not Just an Emergency Contact
by Erin Clay
Life is hard, and most of the time, it is unfair. However, it is how you handle life’s events that makes a difference. Throughout the Bible, numerous stories illustrate that a steadfast, daily faith is what enables people to endure and overcome immense difficulties. This isn't about a single grand gesture of belief, but rather a consistent, moment-by-moment trust in God's presence and promises, even when circumstances seem impossible.
Daniel is a great example of living a life of daily faith. Taken from his home as a young man and forced to serve in the pagan court of Babylon, Daniel was under constant pressure to abandon his faith. His entire life in exile was a testament to the power of daily, disciplined devotion.
From the very beginning, Daniel “resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way” (Daniel 1:8 NIV), demonstrating a commitment to God's law in the small, daily act of eating. Daniel's faith was anchored in a disciplined prayer life. Even when a decree was passed making it illegal to pray to anyone but the king, Daniel 6:10 NIV tells us, “Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day, he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.” It was this non-negotiable daily habit that gave him strength, even when it led him to the lions' den.
Daniel didn't wait until he was in a crisis to turn to God; he was already walking with Him every single day. This consistent relationship gave him the strength to face his battles and the unwavering faith to trust God even when he was facing death by being thrown into the lions' den. While surviving a night with lions is miraculous and awesome, it was his daily walk with God that made him a hero of faith. If we only turn to God in emergencies, our prayers become desperate pleas rather than ongoing conversations.
So what does this look like today? Living a life of daily faith in today's world means making God an integral part of
your routine. This includes praying and reading the Bible to learn more about God's character, as well as serving others and being part of a church community, or a community of believers. It's not about reading a marathons-worth of chapters or spending an hour on your knees every morning. It's simply about showing up. A consistent daily check-in, whether it's reading one verse or slowly going through a chapter or praying for five minutes, is the spiritual food that keeps you strong and prepared before the crisis hits (and crises will hit because we live in a sinful world). These small, daily deposits in your spiritual bank account are what give you peace when the world tries to issue a withdrawal.
We must also remember that Daniel was surrounded by friends who shared his amazing faith, reminding us of the importance of fellowship with other believers. By building these daily habits and surrounding yourself with a strong community, you are establishing and maintaining a foundation of faith. When you make God a part of your everyday life, you will find the strength to face anything that comes your way.
Our first priority is helping you take care of yourself and your
We want to learn more about your personal situation, identify your dreams and goals, and understand your tolerance for risk. Long-term relationships that encourage open and honest communication have been the cornerstone of our foundation of success. It’s about empowering people to create generational impact.
Rome Church Directory
African Methodist Episcopal
Bethel AME Church
22 Nichols Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-0019
St. James AME Zion Church
3 Maxwell Lane Rome, GA 30165
404-307-7396
Summer Hill AME Church 1981 Kingston Hwy NE Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-7113
Anglican
St. Andrew’s Anglican Church 42 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161
Apostolic
First Apostolic Church of Rome
3213 Cave Spring Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-9551
Assembly of God
Redemption Church
105 Broadus Road NE Rome, Ga 30161
706-232-0277
Baptist
Antioch Baptist Church
4526 Big Texas Valley Rome, Ga 30165
706-232-7248
Armuchee Baptist Church
6648 Big Texas Valley Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165
706-235-3169
Berean Baptist Church
8 Skyline Dr Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-9832
Blue Pond Baptist Church
1291 Morrison Campground Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-3296
Bryant Chapel Baptist Church 24 Shady Lane Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-9768
Bush Arbor Baptist Church
3290 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga. 30161
770-885-0779
Calhoun Avenue Baptist Church 1021 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-4431
Calvary Baptist Church 101 Broadus Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-1461
Cedar Creek Baptist Church 3219 Fosters Mill Rd SW Rome, GA 30161
Cedar Valley Baptist Church
3024 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-0978
Community Chapel Baptist Church
3733 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-232-4070
Desoto Park Baptist Church
1107 Cave Spring Rd. Rome, Ga 30161
706-232-6207
Dykes Creek Baptist Church
3181 Kingston Hwy NE Rome Ga, 30161
706-291-7790
East Rome Baptist Church
601 Cedar Ave Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-8553
East View Baptist Church
901 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-8250
Eden Valley Baptist Church
348 Eden Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161
770-608-8168
Emmanuel Baptist Church 1414 Old Dalton Rd Rome, Ga 30165
706-232-3939
Enon Baptist Church
3105 Turkey Mountain Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-5052
Fairview Baptist Church
2348 Old Cedartown Hwy SE Lindale, Ga 30147
Fellowship Rome Baptist Church
314 Burnett Ferry Rd Rome, Ga 30165
706-234-9416
First Baptist Church 100 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-6850
Flatrock Baptist Church 848 Cunningham Rd SW Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-9976
Flint Hill Baptist Church
3578 Wax Rd SE, Aragon, GA 30104
706-232-8121
Friendship Baptist Church
2283 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-4803
Garden Lakes Baptist Church 2200 Redmond Cir Rome, Ga 30165
706-234-6615
Greater Mount Calvary Baptist
445 East 14th St Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-5047
Hill Crest Baptist Church 2202 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-8806
Hollywood Baptist Church 112 Lombardy Way Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-6642
In Focus Baptist Church 12 N Hughes Rome, Ga 30165
706-234-8963
Lakeview Baptist Church 80 Salem Dr Rome, Ga 30165
706-235-2149
Lovejoy Baptist Church 436 Branham Ave Rome, Ga 30171
706-232-1917
McFall Baptist Church
3011 Rockmart Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-5673
Mount Alto Church
1915 Huffaker Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165
706-232-6222
Mount Carmel Baptist Church E 20th St Rome, Ga 30161
706-232-8777
Mount Olive Baptist Church
17 E Pennington Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-6413
New Antioch Baptist Church
4553 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-2248
New Bethel Baptist Church Weathington Dr Rome, Ga 30161
706, 291-8939
New Canaan Baptist Church
3 Excelsior St Rome, Ga 30165
706-291-1984
New Hope Baptist Church Hwy 156 Rome, Ga
706-235-0250
New Hope Baptist Church
399 Moran Lake Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-290-0507
North Broad Baptist Church 1309 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-2100
Northwood Missionary Baptist 4076 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161
Park Ave Baptist Church 531 Park Ave SE Lindale, GA 30147
Parkview Baptist Church 4 Wesley Drive Rome, Ga 30165
706-232-4431
PisGah Baptist Church Alabama Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-232-4431
Pleasant Hope Baptist Church 5935 Rockmart Road SE Silver Creek, Ga
706-235-2800
Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 500 N Division St Rome, Ga 30165
706-235-0731
Pleasant Valley North Baptist 735 Old Summerville Road NW Rome, GA 30165
706-232-6426
Pleasant Valley South Baptist
702 Pleasant Valley Rd SE Silver Creek, Ga 30173
706-234-1841
Providence Baptist Church 17 Burnett Ferry Road SW Rome, Ga 30165
706-291-0689
Riverside Baptist Church 48 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-8114
State Line Baptist Church 8536 Black Bluff Road Cave Spring, Ga 30124
678-988-0339
Saint Paul Baptist Church
Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-5037
Second Avenue Baptist 823 E 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161
706-232-3663
Shannon First Baptist Church 400 Fourth Street, PO Box 997, Shannon, GA 30172
Sherwood Forest Baptist Church 1 Goodman Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-6174
Shorter Avenue Baptist Church 1410 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165
706-234-8266
South Broad Baptist Church 508 South Broad St Rome, Ga 30161
Spring Creek Baptist Church 2636 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-1220
Springfield Baptist Church 113 Smith St Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-7217
Thankful Baptist Church 935 Spider Webb Dr Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-8132
Three Rivers Church 2960 New Calhoun Highway NE Rome, Ga
706-766-0942
Trinity Baptist Church 1728 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-3368
Turner Chapel Baptist Church
756 Turner Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-8682
Unity Baptist Church 2261 Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-232-2184
West End Baptist Church 107 Mississippi Dr Rome, Ga 30165
706-235-1971
West Rome Baptist Church 914 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165
706-232-9722
Wilkerson Road Baptist Church Wilkerson Rd Rome, Ga 30161
Woodlawn Baptist Church 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161
706-232-4171
Word & Way Baptist Church New Rocketmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-8729
Catholic
Saint Mary Catholic Church 911 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-7014
Christian & Missionary Alliance
Missionary Alliance 306 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 20165
706-235-9190
Church of Christ
Church of Christ 108 E Callahan St Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-0675
Lindale Church of Christ 3035 Maple Road
Lindale, Ga 30147
706-234-3027
Oak Hill Church of Christ
1500 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 20165
706-291-0351
Rome Church of Christ 121 Primrose Road
Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-4444
Church of God
Armuchee Church of God
4974 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 30165
706-232-4414
Church of God of Prophecy 94 Huffaker Rd. Rome, GA 30165
706-528-4225
Lindale Church of God
585 Park Ave Lindale, Ga 30147
706-232-5676
New Life Church of God
210 E 18th St Rome, Ga 30161
706-232-0704
New Hope Overcoming Church of God 200 Nixon Ave Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-4695
North Rome Church of God
1929 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-6687
Rome AOH Church of God 504 Decatur St Rome, Ga 30165
706-295-2999
West Rome Church of God UA 2827 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165
706-880-6895
Church of God in Christ
Great Joy Church of God in Christ
60 Shorter Industrial Blvd Rome, Ga 30161
706-766-6148
Disciples of Christ
First Christian Church
209 E. Second Ave, Rome, Ga 30161
Episcopal
Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church 101 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-9111
Foursquare
Rome Foursquare Church
308 Reservoir St NE Rome, Ga 30161
Full Gospel
Christ Gospel Church 619 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-7744
Independent Bible
Grace Bible Church 614 Dalton Rd NE Rome, Ga 30165
Interdenominational Cornerstone Church 324 Mathis Dr Rome, Ga 30165
Ministerios El Vino Nuevo
4216 Alabama Hwy NW
Rome, Ga 30165
706-291-0500
Renovation Church 13 Redmond Ct. Rome, Ga 30165
706-314-9084
Latter-day Saints
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
3300 Garden Lakes Pkwy Rome, Ga 30165
706-235-2281
Lutheran
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
3000 Garden Lakes Blvd
Rome, Ga 30165
706-232-7257
Methodist
Beech Creek Methodist
2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165
706-506-8980
GracePoint Rome 43 Chateau Court Rome, Ga 30161
Holsey Sinai CME Church
1233 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-7265
Lindsay Chapel UMC
9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161
Metropolitan UMC
700 Broad St Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-8660
Mt Pleasant Church 4782 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165
706-232-4350
New Bethel Methodist Church Reeceburg Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-9700
Oostanaula UMC
74 Battey Farm Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-292-0084
Rome First UMC
202 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-8590
Rush Chapel UMC
1225 Rush Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-7986
Scott Chapel UMC 3 Chambers St NE Rome, Ga 30161
Second Avenue UMC
801 E Second Ave SW Rome, GA 30161
Silver Creek UMC
36 Reeceburg Rd SE Silver Creek, GA 30173
706-234-2518
Trinity By The River, Global Methodist 606 Turner McCall Blvd SW
Rome, Ga 30165
706-291-0033
Wesley Chapel UMC
9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161
West Rome UMC
1003 Shorter Ave PO Box 2247 Rome, GA 30164
706-234-6214
Messianic
Congregation Hallelu HaShem 1869 Floyd Springs Rd NE, Armuchee, GA 3105
706-936-6711
Nazarene
Rome First Church of the Nazarene 20 Glenda Dr Rome, Ga 30165
706-234-5023
Non-Denominational
Access Church
1905 Calhoun Rd Rome, Ga 30161
705-584-7497
Christian Church at Rome 2417 Shorter Ave Rome, GA 30165
706-235-0501
Glorious New Jerusalem Church 537 W 12th St Rome, Ga 30165
706-295-2045
Glory Tabernacle Church
300 Watson St Rome, Ga 30165
706-235-0888
Gospel Harvester Church 1246 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161
706-290-9858
Greater Refuge Ministries 1604 North Broad St Rome, GA 30161
706-622-2448
Legacy Church 524 Avenue A SW Rome, GA 30165
LIFE Church of Rome
19 John Davenport Drive Rome GA 30165
706-728-3166
Lighthouse Church of Rome
Lighthouse Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-0864
New and Living Way Bible Church 59 Dykes Creek Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-233-9200
Northside Church
75 N. Floyd Park Rd. Rome, Ga 30165
706-233-9896
Rally Up International Ministries 2460 Shorter Avenue Rome, Ga 30165
706-235-8561
Shannon Community Church
600 First Street Shannon, GA 30172
706-491-7112
Solid Holy Rock Deliverance Tabernacle
700 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-8948
The Church at Rome 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161
706-346-2733
Trinity United Christian Church
6 Deer Run Trail Rome, Ga 30165
706-204-8270
We The Church 1818 Kingston Hwy Rome, Ga 30161
Wilderness Church Rome 2730 Martha Berry Highway NE Rome, Ga 30165
706-237-6395
Words of Faith Tabernacle 3134 Rockmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-314-9158
Orthodox
All Saints Church 615 Cleveland Ave Rome, Ga 30165
706-378-4474
Pentecostal
Cannon Temple Holiness Church
308 Porter St Rome, Ga 20161
706-233-9001
Christ Temple Holiness Church 1321 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-3787
Victory Temple Of Joy 118 Williamson St. Rome, Ga 30165
706-766-3865
Presbyterian
First Presbyterian Church EPC 101 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-6033
Seven Hills Fellowship 530 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161
706-530-1630
Silver Creek Presbyterian Church 6 Old Rockmart Road Silver Creek, Ga 30173
706-234-6862
Westminster Presbyterian Church 1941 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165
706-235-8561
Seventh-Day Adventist
Rome Bethany Seventh-Day Adventist Church
307 E 14th St SW Rome, Ga 30161
706-292-0067
Seventh-Day Adventist Church 2526 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-4117
Cave Spring Church Directory
Cave Spring Church of God
19 Mill Street
Cave Spring, GA 30124
706-777-8348
Grace Fellowship Baptist Church
6635 Blacks Bluff Rd SW
Cave Spring Ga 30124
706-346-9786
Live Oak Baptist Church
5506 GA-100
Cave Spring, GA 30124
706-777-8566
The Empty Tomb
5630 Fosters Mill Rd SW
Cave Spring, GA 30124
Rehoboth Missionary Baptist
6 Rehoboth Rd SW
Cave Spring, GA 30124
706-777-3313
First Baptist Church 4 Old Cedartown Rd.
Cave Spring, GA 30124
706-777-3566
Cave Spring UMC
30 Alabama Street
Cave Spring, GA 30124
706-777-8624
Jackson Chapel UMC
301 Jackson Chapel Rd
Cave Spring, GA 30125
706-777-3750
Did I Deserve You? A Tribute to My Husband
by Tammy Madden
Genesis 2:24 NIV: “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
When you took my hand all those years ago and kissed me for the first time, the thrill of your touch was so magical. I was a teenager in love. I had prayed for that moment. And then there you were holding me on that cold winter’s night with my arms in your jacket, trying to stay warm while the snow fell. It was love at first sight, and I never wanted that moment to end. To this day, I still feel like a teenage girl when you put your hand in mine and say, “I love you.”
But did I deserve you? Did you deserve all the hard times we never saw coming? You never once bailed on me. You stayed with me through homeless nights, through watching my sisters and sisters-in-law have babies, even though it was looking like we would never have one, through deaths of loved ones, through job lay-offs, through getting new jobs. You supported me through college. You took me places I never dreamed I could go (Florida, Gatlinburg, Disney World, North Carolina). You took me to Pennsylvania because my nephew was dying, and you never hesitated to get me to him. Thank God he lived! You even stood by us through our daughter’s heart transplant and brain injury. You never once left our sides.
Through weddings and funerals, through laughing and crying, you stayed by us. We have been so poor we ate peanut butter for two weeks straight, and we have had enough money to go to fancy steak houses (even though you hate steak). We have driven cars that were falling apart (literally), and we have had brand new cars.
You helped me with my mom. You loved her like your own. You took her with us on every vacation we took until she was too sick to go. She called you “her only friend.” You allowed our precious niece, Tabitha Braden, to come and live with us. Then she became as much ours as she was my sister’s.
Then came March 7th, 2024. That horrible day the doctor told you I wasn't going to make it. But there you
were standing by my bed when I opened my eyes in ICU, on a ventilator and scared to death. You never once even thought about leaving me. It never crossed your mind. I thought I was so ugly with a colostomy bag and my colon on the outside of my body. You told me I was more beautiful than ever. You prayed over me. You waited on me hand and foot. You prayed over me every day. You never once let me give up!
My dear husband, thank you for being there at times when anyone else would have walked away. Thank you for saying, “I love you,” every single day for the last 43 years. I promise you God has a special gift for you in Heaven. I love you now and forever!
Precious readers, if many of us would not give up so easily on marriage, life would be so much better. We must always remember to stick together in sickness and in health. Trust me when I say the sick days will come even if it's 40 years down the road. We must always remember to enjoy the good days and be prepared for the hard ones. And always and forever, put God first in our marriages. That is key to a good, strong marriage!
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.
Air Solutions: Providing Comfort You Can Trust Across Georgia and Alabama
Awards may capture attention, but consistency earns loyalty. For Air Solutions, delivering comfort isn’t a seasonal effort—it’s a year-round commitment rooted in integrity, responsiveness, and care.
Voted Best Heating and Air Company in Rome 2025, Air Solutions Heating and Air continues to set the standard for dependable comfort across Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama. Named a Best of Georgia 2025 Regional Winner as well, this locally trusted company has earned recognition not through flashy promises, but through steady excellence, reliable service, and a genuine commitment to the families and businesses they serve.
Grant Sheppard, co-owner and COO, notes, “We’d like to extend a huge thank you to our amazing customers and this incredible Rome community for your love, trust, and support. You’re the heartbeat of everything we do — and we couldn’t have achieved this without you! In addition, we’re especially pleased to be the Best of Georgia Regional Winner as well. This reflects the excellence from our team and we’re appreciative of the community we serve!”
Excellence Built on Trust
Every homeowner understands a simple truth: comfort matters. When winter brings bitter cold or summer settles in heavy and humid, the systems working behind the scenes suddenly become essential. Air Solutions has built
its reputation on being ready in those moments—providing reliable heating, cooling, and indoor air quality solutions that bring peace of mind.
Serving communities about an hour around Rome, Georgia, to Northeast Alabama communities including Centre, Gaylesville, Cedar Bluff, and Leesburg, Air Solutions is a local team serving neighbors. Their licensed and certified technicians understand the region’s climate challenges—from sweltering Southern summers to unpredictable winter cold snaps—and solutions are tailored accordingly. That local expertise translates into practical, long-lasting results. Whether installing a new energyefficient unit, repairing an unexpected breakdown, or performing routine maintenance, the goal remains the same: do the job right the first time.
With NATE (North America Technician Excellence) certifications, these technicians are prepared through several rigorous exams and field work to maintain the highest quality standards with both procedures and equipment. Steady Service,
Season After Season
What truly distinguishes Air Solutions is not just technical skill—it’s dependability. Customers know they can expect clear communication, prompt response times, and transparent, upfront pricing. No hidden fees. No surprises.
In fact, a client explained: “Air Solutions did a great job designing and installing our system. They addressed
problems we have had for years and now we couldn’t be happier.”
From the first phone call to the final system check, professionalism and respect guide every interaction. That steady approach to service is what turns first-time customers into long-term clients—and what ultimately led to being voted Best Heating and Air Company in Rome 2025.
Solutions for Every Season—and Every Budget
HVAC issues rarely arrive at a convenient time, and unexpected repairs or replacements can feel overwhelming. Air Solutions addresses this reality with flexible financing options designed to ease the burden.
Are you worried about the cost of a new HVAC system or urgent repairs? Air Solutions makes it easy with flexible financing options designed to fit your budget. Homeowners and businesses across Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama can now enjoy reliable heating and cooling without the stress of upfront expenses. Whether it’s an installation, repair, or maintenance service, these simple financing plans—powered by GoodLeap—help you stay comfortable year-round. And the good news? It only takes a soft credit pull.
And keep in mind, Air Solutions is a Carrier factoryauthorized dealer
More Than Heating and Cooling
True comfort goes beyond temperature control. Air Solutions offers comprehensive indoor air quality services that help families breathe easier. This team works to reduce indoor pollutants and create healthier living environments, from humidity control systems to advanced air purification solutions.
Preventive HVAC maintenance remains another cornerstone of their steady excellence. Regular service extends equipment life, improves efficiency, lowers energy costs, and reduces the likelihood of costly breakdowns. It’s a proactive approach that protects both comfort and budget.
Serving Communities Across Georgia and Alabama
From mountain communities in North Georgia to the warmer climates of Alabama, their technicians are equipped to meet diverse heating and cooling needs year-round.
Comfort Done Right—Every Time
At its core, Air Solutions Heating and Air is about people. It’s about families sleeping comfortably, businesses operating without interruption, and homeowners knowing they have a dependable partner when it matters most. It’s about comfort that doesn’t become a focus, but easily remains steadily working in the background.
Recognition as Best Heating and Air Company in Rome 2025 affirms what customers already know: Air Solutions delivers consistent excellence. With skilled technicians, advanced technology, and unwavering integrity, they provide ironclad protection for one of your home’s most essential systems.
When you choose Air Solutions, you’re choosing proven reliability, award-winning service, and comfort you can count on—season after season.
Comfort You Can Trust
Your premier trusted HVAC service center in Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama. Comfort you can trust— right here at home.
See the website, www.airsolutionsforyou.com, for details, business hours, and contact information and even for their blog with advice and solutions for keeping your heating and air solutions running at peak efficiency.
Or, call (706) 676-6795. Or, go by the office at 4364 Martha Berry Hwy, Rome, GA 30165. Tell them the folks at Goodnews sent you!
for Everyone Milkshake Magic
by Monica Gambrell
When I was a rebellious sixteen-year-old, I moved in with my sister and her two children. Maybe I was too similar to my mother to get along with her. The new location was a one-hour drive to town and was in another county. I woke up early every day, dropped off one niece at daycare and the other at kindergarten on my way to school. My very wise band teacher held band practice one hour before school started in order to avoid the stifling Georgia heat. After band practice was a full day of school, then the afternoon (3-11pm) shift at a fast-food restaurant. After work I would drive an hour back home and start all over again. Many times, I was so tired I just slept in the car and drove home before sunrise.
Working the late shift was hard, but also entertaining. Many of the town drunks would come in toward the end of the shift. On one such occasion, a group of them came in with loud and raucous behavior. One of the girls in the group literally jumped over
the countertop and I had to physically remove her from the employee space. It’s always a good idea to keep the mood as light as possible, so when she got back in line to order, she slurred, “Hey, can you make me a milkshake?” I waved my arms wildly in large circular motions as if I had a magic wand in my hand, smiled, and gestured the imaginary wand in her direction as I said loudly, “Bam, you’re a milkshake!” Her reaction was priceless. She was overjoyed that she was now a milkshake, and the rest of the group’s visit there was pleasant.
As Christians, do we fully grasp that we are no longer who we once were? We are literally a new creation. We have a new nature and a new eternal home. We should be overjoyed! After I accepted Christ, I was walking in the mall and ran into a friend that I used to party with in high school. I hadn’t seen her in several years. She hugged me. When she pulled away, she looked intently into my eyes and gasped, “You got saved, didn’t you?” Her spirit bore witness with mine and we wept for joy. Being different is one thing, but even the motivations of my heart had been completely transformed. No other explanation describes the type of radical change I underwent. Hallelujah! I’m different!
2 Corinthians 5:17 NASB: “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, this person is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.”
John 3:1-3 NASB: “Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews; this man came to Jesus at night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” Jesus responded and said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless someone is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
Father God, I would have done anything as a youngster to have a life that looked more like what everyone else had.
Oh, how foolish! Wide is the gate that leads to destruction. We should celebrate being what God calls a “peculiar people.” He treasures us for being different; what could be better than that?
Gò0 dNews for Everyone Rejoicing Anyway
by Zebbie Brewster
Psalm 118:24 KJV says, “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
This has always been one of my favorite verses. You could break the verse down and let it speak to your heart. God is our creator and all good and perfect gifts come from Him.
James 1:17 KJV says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
Talk about the perfect gift giver. That is Him. He gives us the gift of life for He knows us even before we are born. We are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Psalm 139:13-14 KJV says, “For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.”
Just ask any new parent about their new baby and they have the most beautiful baby in the world. The miracle of life only comes from God. He created us in love to honor and glorify Him. A day comes and goes so swiftly like a weaver’s shuttle.
Job 7:6 KJV says, “My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle, and are spent without hope.”
James 4:14 KJV says, “Whereas ye know what shall be on the morrow, for what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.”
The Bible teaches us to number our days so we can apply our hearts unto wisdom.
Psalm 90:12 KJV says, “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.”
Making wise decisions is so very important. Pray that God will help you know His plan for your life. My husband and I are not good travelers. Even with MapQuest we can still get lost on our journey. That is the reason we try to stick to traveling 2 and 4-lane roads. Sometimes those exits are too hard to get to on the interstate. It seems we can get turned around so easily. Then on the road, there can be a detour and that would really mess us up. Out of sheer
urgency we would even stop and ask directions. Sometimes that would help if you are familiar with the roads.
Back to the day being made by God, when was the last time you got to see a sunrise or sunset? In the mountains of Northwest Georgia, it can be quite breathtaking at all the bright colors the sky takes on. My husband and I were talking yesterday about how the longest day of the year will soon be here in June. After that, the days will start getting shorter again. This year has just flown by! I teasingly said that they would be putting up Christmas decorations soon!
I didn’t take time to watch the sunrise this morning as the skies were cloudy. I did look out the front door to see my cat eating her breakfast. I was thankful for that, as yesterday she was having a puny day. She did not even want to get out and come and greet me.
I had also gone for a test yesterday and they were not able to finish it. Hopefully I will be hearing from my doctor about rescheduling it. I told my husband as we were leaving that everything happens for a reason and I was just going to have to trust God with this.
I can truthfully say that I was not doing too much rejoicing when they could not complete my test. I know that I will have to keep holding on to God’s promises. He can be trusted as He has proven to be faithful to me and I praise Him for that!
Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.
Chatty Critters and Friends Series: Soar on Wings of an Eagle
by Jan Merop
Energy and desire rippled through my body.
I felt ready for flight as my eyes searched the horizon. I could see places unknown to people – if only in my memory.
You see, I am a bald eagle, but I’ve been injured. One day I was soaring high in the sky. I can glide to altitudes of over 2,400 feet without any problem.
But then, while perched high on a branch in a tree, a stray bullet caught my wing and I plunged to the ground. Even my eagle eyes couldn’t have seen that swift-moving bullet coming at me.
Thankfully, I was found and rescued and brought back to health. But I’ll never fly again.
But come closer and look at me!
I want you to see how God the Creator made me so grand. As great a size as I am with such awesome power, I am known for being graceful in flight.
If the winds become strong and frightening, I just let them carry me higher and faster. I can even carry other eagles to safety on my wings.
My Creator also blessed me with extraordinary eyesight. Maybe you have heard the saying, “He has eagle eyes,” when speaking of someone whose eyes never miss anything.
My keen eyesight alerts me to approaching dangers so I can protect myself and my family. But whizzing
bullets are tricky to avoid! I love my family and teach my eaglets how to leave the nest and fly so they can survive in the wilds – as they were meant to do. Though I miss soaring high in the sky, I’m glad I lived so you can see me close up.
Exploring Truth Through God’s Creation
Isaiah 40:31 KJV: “But those who wait on the Lord (trusting God instead of themselves) shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles (not afraid of storms; but letting God lift them above the storms), they shall run and not be weary (because of God’s strength in them), they shall walk and not faint.”
The Eagle and You
The eagle reminds us that we are free in our Creator, Jesus Christ, when we place our faith in Him. The eagle’s family is important to him. He mates for life, takes care of his family, and comes back to the same nest each year fixing and repairing it. When we wait on God, He gives us strength like an eagle and helps us soar above life’s storms.
for Athletes
Walking for His Glory
by Bill Silvers
“Ican do all things through Christ, who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13 NKJV).
On the 22nd and 23rd of September 2023, I competed in nine events at the Georgia Golden Olympics: the 50-meter, 100-meter, 200-meter, 400-meter, and the 800-meter races. I competed in all five races on the same day, along with a 5k, football, softball, and basketball. I won six gold medals and three silver medals. The medals I brought home belong to God, not me. I could not have won them without His blessing. The praise and glory go to God!
Why did I compete in the Georgia Golden Olympics at 85? (As of this writing in April 2026, I am 87.) I started competing in 5k races at 82 in 2020. I have now competed in over 20 5k races. I finished in 1st place in my age group in every race. Oh, and I forgot to mention I’m the only one competing in my age group! It still counts, right?
I realized that if I was going to have someone to race against, I would have to compete at the Georgia Golden Olympics. The athletes come from all over the state to compete in the different events. I am sorry to say there were not many in my age group, and some of the events I was alone. For me, it was never about winning. It was about finishing the race.
God called me to race. He also met with me in the training. I felt closer to God during my training. I trained for six weeks, six days per week. I spent one and a half to two hours, five to six days per week, at the gym. I also spent one hour per day at the basketball court.
Four to five days per week, I walked in the beautiful North Georgia mountains. It gave me the opportunity to see the beauty of nature that God has created. Not just for me, but for everyone. You cannot walk in the mountains without feeling the presence of God.
I spent more time praying in the mountains than I did in church on Sunday. I also learned a better way to pray during that time. My prayers had always been a little onesided. I did all the talking and very little listening. When
you are walking in the mountains for hours at a time, you start to listen.
This is what God put on my heart to share. It was to make everyone aware of the importance of walking and physical fitness at all ages. You can feel the benefits in as little as 15 to 20 minutes per day, three to four days per week. We know when someone is recuperating from a heart attack, they are told to walk. The same goes for strokes, hip or knee replacements, cancer, anxiety, etc. The list goes on. So why don’t people walk? I do not know. But I do know that it will change your quality of life and may even extend it. So please start walking!
And if you listen closely enough, the Lord might just call you to run races in your 80s too!
Bill Silvers from Ellijay, Georgia, began running competitively at age 81. He runs to the glory of God!
for Discovering More
Sticky Business
by Garrett Nudd
Iobserved my father wash the family cars regularly. My mother’s blue car had white pinstripes running down both sides and I always wondered why they didn’t come off during the wash, much like Band-Aids do. One afternoon while I was playing in the garage and looking for the next thing to do, I noticed something at my eye-level: the pinstripes on my mother’s Datsun.
Now, I knew that stickers didn’t stick forever. It was just a fact. And I also knew that Band-Aids fall off—or at least start to peel at the corners—when you’re in the water. I was overcome with concern. Moments later my concern turned into resolve. And that’s when I had an idea. I would help my father by peeling the stickers (i.e., white pinstripes) off the sides of the car. That way when my dad washed the car, he wouldn’t have to worry about the stickers peeling off. It was the perfect plan, and my parents were going to be so pleased!
I started with the driver’s side. To my delight, it went much faster than I had anticipated. It must’ve been the putty knife I used at the corner to get the pinstripes started. I had the first side finished in no time whatsoever. I took a short break from my work and then started on the passenger side, which was the side closest to the kitchen
door. I started in the back and carefully worked my way toward the front.
I knew how neat and organized my father kept the garage, so I kept my peeled stickers close by my side. Just as I was approaching the front passenger-side wheel well, my mother opened the door from the house to the garage. It must have looked like a mountain of spaghetti in my small four-year-old hands! And there in the middle stood a giant meatball.
I guessed by the look on her face that my four-year-old judgement wasn’t as solid as I thought. My punishment was mild in retrospect—they took away my roller-skates for a week. I loved those things!
Of course, mistakes are not limited to children. Adults make mistakes too, even if their intentions are good. And as adults, the stakes are often higher, and it’s the grace of a parent or friend, spouse, colleague, or child that recognizes a mistake for what it is and smothers it with MORE THAN.
When that happens it’s up to us to accept their MORE THAN grace. MORE THAN is about receiving just as much as it is about giving. And as adults, receiving MORE THAN is often harder than offering it. Learning to forgive yourself and accept God’s grace is paramount to growing in MORE THAN. Don’t lose sight of the fact that humility and lack of self-acceptance are not the same. One of the greatest challenges we face is the acceptance of God’s forgiveness. No, we don’t deserve it, but it’s His gift to give. You are MORE THAN the choices you make, and you are MORE THAN the actions you take.
Looking back, my intentions were pure, but my actions were misguided. And at four years old, fortunately it was pretty easy to forgive myself. Who knows how many pinstriped cars I would’ve targeted in my teenage years if I hadn’t lost my roller-skates for a week!
book,
• Call ahead to pick your fresh, hot meal at our convenient pick-up window located just inside the front door before you enter the restaurant. Or enjoy delivery through Door Dash or Dinner Delivered!
• We Cater Events, Big & Small! Call for a quote.
• Bakery Case with Fresh Baked Desserts: Cookies, Brownies, and Cakes!
• Conference Room can accommodate groups up to 40 people 595 Riverside Parkway | Rome, GA | 706.204.8321
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:30am - 8:00pm | Sunday: 10:30am - 3:00pm pickodelicafeteria.com
A Heart for God
by Timothy Tate
Someone once said that a poem is ninety percent inspiration and ten percent creativity. It can begin with just a simple thought, a written phrase, or even some remnant of a dream, but there has to be a seed. The creative aspect of the process are all the tools of expression at your disposal. These are much like a farmer's land and implements necessary to cultivate the seed into a harvest. When I write a poem, I pray that God will give me the right words. This is the true inspiration, the sunshine, and the rain that God gives to grow the seed.
A case in point: We did a series in our Wednesday night Bible class on the physical and spiritual heart. Two wonderful men of God led the study. One was an anatomy professor and teacher of nutrition and the other a medical doctor. It was a fascinating lecture as we delved into all aspects of the heart. Most amazing of all was the scriptural application of the heart as it runs through God's word like blood vessels run through the body. I was reminded just how vital it is that we guard our hearts as a daily exercise. Proverbs 4:23 NKJV says it best, “keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.”
The next morning while our class study was still fresh in my thoughts, I was inspired in my devotions to write this poem.
May my heart be tried and softened as the fallow ground awaits the plow. May it be furrowed deep and often in the valley and on the brow.
May the seed find fertile soilnot thistle, rock, or stone.
Let my heart be hands that toil to lead the wayward home.
May the seed burst forth in glory as it claims the former rain, when the harvest tells the story of a heart for God aflame.
Timothy Tate is a Lee University alumnus of 1990. He and his wife, Lisa, and family have lived in Cleveland, Tennessee, since 1985. Tim is a retired postal carrier/commercial fisherman and enjoys writing memoirs and poetry.
Shift Therapy and Wellness: Where Your Comeback Begins
At Shift Therapy and Wellness in Rome, GA, the focus is simple: helping people move better, feel stronger, and live fully at every stage of life. Shift Therapy and Wellness is the place where your comeback begins.
This isn’t your typical therapy clinic. This team lives up to the name. Every session is one-on-one, meaning you get the undivided attention of a skilled physical or occupational therapist who’s committed to your success.
Team Member Spotlight: Dr. Dallyn Putz, PT, DPT, Cert-DN
Dallyn grew up in Manchester, Iowa, where athletics and hard work shaped his foundation early. He earned his degree in Athletic Training from Central College while competing as a collegiate baseball player, then went on to receive his Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Iowa in 2021.
Since graduating, Dallyn has worked as a traveling physical therapist across North Carolina, Colorado, Iowa, and Georgia — gaining diverse clinical experience and refining his approach in a wide variety of settings and patient populations.
He is especially passionate about treating shoulder injuries, including rotator cuff and labral repairs, rotator cuff tendinopathy, subacromial pain syndromes, and lower extremity injuries.
At the core of Dallyn’s practice are dedication, authenticity, excellence, and selflessness. He is driven to help patients challenge the limits they may place on themselves — whether those limits stem from a diagnosis, an injury, or age-related expectations. His goal is simple: help people realize they are capable of more than they think.
Outside the clinic, you’ll likely find Dallyn on the golf course, experimenting with new recipes, spending time near the lake or ocean, training outdoors in the sun, or planning his next travel adventure.
Team Member Spotlight: Dr. Richard Travers, PT, BS, MPT, DPT
Dr. Travers was born and raised in a suburb of Miami, Florida. He describes, “It was a great place to grow up, as there were 365 days a year to play outside. My family moved to Marietta, Georgia, when I attended college. I graduated from Kennesaw State University, the Medical College of Georgia, and The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. I worked in restaurants as a cook during my teenage years and later worked as a deckhand/cook on
West Coast, the Caribbean, Panama, and Mexico. Prior to becoming a physical therapist, I worked as a licensed massage therapist, which inspired me to become a physical therapist.”
Dr. Travers has experience particularly with orthopedic physical therapy, manual therapy, vestibular therapy, Graston Technique, and Janda Muscle Balancing. He provides patient education and hands-on therapy that increases joint flexibility, decreases muscle tightness, and increases balance and function.
Team Member Spotlight: Deron Bellcase, OT
Deron Bellcase is now a Rock Steady Boxing Certified Clinician through Rock Steady Boxing. This program is specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and focuses on: balance, coordination, strength, agility, and slowing symptom progression.
This isn’t random exercise. It’s neurologically driven, boxing-based training that helps people fight back—physically and mentally.
If you or someone you love is living with Parkinson’s and looking for specialized care in Rome, we’re now accepting new patients. Award-Winning Care, Right Here in Rome
Shift Therapy and Wellness is honored as Best Physical Therapy Clinic of Rome. The Shift team’s mission is clear: to solve problems others overlook and to remind folks that it’s never too late to feel strong again.
Ready to Shift the Way You Move?
Call or text (706) 314-8504 to schedule a free consultation. Visit shift.physio or follow Shift_Therapy_ Wellness to learn more.
a deep-sea tugboat, towing barges to the East Coast, Gulf Coast,
There’s a dusty dirt road off in some fields that looks like any other road of its kind in the South. But, it’s truly not the same. It’s not the length or the condition or the age of this road that makes the difference, it’s the destination. This road leads to hope. There’s hope along that dusty dirt road because Safe Haven Ranch for Boys is waiting at the end of it.
Jason Slaughter of Community Share Ministries describes the road building, “We are building roads to make room for what God’s got coming. We don’t know just who or just when but we know the children are coming. We know God’s got something He’s working on and we’re making room for it.”
The Safe Haven Boys Ranch is nestled in the former Corn family farm. The Corn family never raised children there. They raised animals and vegetables and eventually, they’ve raised hopes. The Corn family bestowed the farm into the care of Jason and Ginger Slaughter of Community Share Ministries who saw a vision for helping boys on a working farm throughout their childhood by providing a caring environment, a sound education both academic and practical, and a sense of true belonging in a community through a family both at home and a welcoming church family.
Jason continues, “We have been called by God to take care of the children who have known great suffering and
have no place to call home. Safe Haven Ranch is dedicated to demonstrating Christ's love by creating a nurturing environment for children who have known great suffering. Our mission is to address both the physical and spiritual needs of these children, providing them with the tools to overcome emotional and mental health challenges while sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.
“We aim to inspire and instill hope in the children we serve, empowering them to grow and heal despite their difficult circumstances. Our organization believes in building a strong sense of community and providing a safe haven for children in need. Through our efforts, we strive to make a positive change in the lives of the children and families we serve, embodying the love of Christ in all that we do.”
Making a Difference
The Safe Haven Boys Ranch has plans to provide a long-term home to more than 70 children over its course, not including nine children who have already found their forever homes.
What Role Do You Play in Making a Difference?
Are you ready to make room, make a way, and make a difference? When you take the journey down the dusty dirt road to Safe Haven Boys Ranch you are immediately impacting children and nurturing not only the lives of these young people but the life of the community as well.
Five years of extraordinary senior living.
There’s no shortage of energy and excitement when you live at The Spires at Berry College — whether hiking around our scenic lakeside location, raising a glass at our pub for happy hour or exploring Rome’s charming attractions with friends. While immersed in Berry’s lively campus culture, residents have countless opportunities to attend university athletic events, arts performances and even lectures — not to mention form meaningful relationships with students. At the heart of it all, you’ll find the spirit of togetherness that makes our community one of a kind.
See why The Spires is not just a place to live — but a better way to live. Call 706-524-0600 or visit RetireAtBerry.com to schedule a personal tour.
