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About Us
WRITERS
Ande Frazier
Candyce Carden
Carl Corser
Elijah Jenkins
Filip Brunner
Garrett Nudd
Hayden Lanier
Lori McAfee
Dr. Rob Debelak
Stephanie Daniels
Stephanie Evans
Tammy Madden
SALES
Matthew Ruckman
423-503-1410
Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com
DESIGN
Caleb Prytherch
Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Melanie Abney
706-844-3818
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
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!
WEBSITE goodnewscm.com issuu.com/goodnewsrome 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.
Why Did Jesus Call His Followers Sheep?
by Elijah Jenkins
“Idid tell you and you don’t believe,” Jesus answered them. “The works that I do in my Father’s name testify about me. But you don’t believe because you are not of my sheep. My sheep hear my voice, I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all. No one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one” (John 10:25-30 CSB).
Jesus viewed Himself as a shepherd and His followers as His sheep. This is important because it is the same way God had often spoken of Himself throughout the Old Testament Scriptures. God wants to be a caretaker of His people. He wants us to trust Him to protect us, to guide us where we should go, feed us, clothe us, and provide loving care for our needs. Jesus viewed Himself no different. While He walked the earth, He behaved just like a shepherd to people. He listened to them, healed them, spoke kindly to them, taught them, and gave them food. He showed God’s love toward all people, especially those with greater needs, like the poor, disabled, and outcasts. These works that Jesus was doing, and specifically the miraculous ones like healing and multiplying food, showed that He was from God and was God. He was appealing to His listeners to believe in Him because of these works. He was hoping they would recognize the similarity between Himself and God, and realize that He was God walking among them.
Jesus describes the relationship between Himself and His followers as sheep that know the voice of their shepherd. This is in contrast to those who don’t believe; He says their unbelief is because they are not His sheep. There is a difference in this world between those who follow Jesus and those who don't. Jesus makes it clear that His words, teaching, and works will be recognized by His followers because they are, in fact, His sheep. The sheep recognize who the shepherd is because they belong to Him.
Why is this important? It gives us assurance that if we believe Jesus is God, believe what He taught, and believe what He did, then we are, in fact, one of His sheep. And what does He say about those who are His sheep? He says He will give them eternal life, and no one can snatch them out of His hand. The Father and Jesus are working together to keep the sheep and take care of them. If you believe in Jesus, then you are promised by God that He will be your shepherd. You will live with Him forever, and there is nothing that can change that.
This is amazing because we don't have to worry about whether or not we believe enough, or are obedient enough, or good enough. Jesus told everyone that if you believe in Him, then you are His sheep, and that will never change. You will always be His, and you will always be with Him. Jesus is such a loving and powerful shepherd who we can trust. He will not lose us. He will not change His mind about us. No one can take you from Him, and you cannot find yourself lost away from Him. You are securely one of Jesus’ sheep, and you always will be.
Elijah Jenkins is the student minister at Shorter Avenue Baptist Church in Rome, Georgia. He’s a husband, a father to two baby girls, and just another sinner saved by God’s grace through faith in Jesus.
dNews for Everyone
Home
by Hayden Lanier
Any time I go on a trip, I always look forward to returning. Although I enjoy my time away, I look forward to going back to the place I call home. I may see dazzling sights and behold beautiful sights of God’s creation. I most likely was able to eat some delicious and unique food. Sometimes, I get the opportunity to meet and interact with new people. I usually have a great time and enjoy any chance I am fortunate enough to go on a “journey” of any sort. But this reality does not negate my longing for home.
Though the landmarks may be stunning, to me, they pale in comparison to the lush green woods surrounding my house and the music of the birds singing in the tall trees above. The food away may be great, but even more, I delight in the comfort of a home-cooked meal with my family gathered around our kitchen table. Although I see many different people when I travel, I do not love them the way I love my family and friends and want to spend time with them. Traveling is great, but in my humble opinion, home is greater. Such an attitude, I believe, is comparable to the life of a Christian. We experience joys and pleasures in life. We enjoy the gifts God has given us: music, friendship, the array of colors in a sunrise, the bliss and wonder of childhood. But we enjoy even the most joy-filled gifts knowing
that they will not satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts. Experiences and people cannot do this; God alone can satisfy. Our temporary stay here on earth is saturated in a longing for home. We are but pilgrims, strangers, or exiles here. As Christians, we are members of another Kingdom. We are citizens of Heaven, our true, eternal home. This is why we can only experience joy and peace in Jesus. He came that we might have life and have it more abundantly.
So now, as we live, we live with this knowledge in mind. We live knowing that we were made for another place. We were made to know and dwell in God. So we experience Him on earth, walking with Him daily as we look forward to the day when “the dwelling place of God [will be] with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God” (Revelation 21:3 ESV).
C.S. Lewis helped shine a light on this idea. He famously wrote in Mere Christianity, “If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world.” Furthermore, in his final installment of Narnia, The Last Battle, Aslan—who is Christ in the series—said this when the characters entered the “True Narnia” of eternal life: “The term is over: the holidays have begun. The dream is ended: this is the morning.”
Enjoy life, but remember that all the joys we experience are but shadows of the true joy. These glimpses of Heaven are not meant to fulfill us but to create an insatiable longing for our real home where we will be finally and fully content.
See www.setyourmindabove.wordpress.com for this article and more from Hayden Lanier.
Hayden Lanier attends Shorter University and works at Cave Spring Baptist Church. You can find more of his writing on his blog, setyourmindabove.wordpress.com.
IWhat Is Your Money Saying About You? Money Matters
Ande Frazier with
f someone could scroll through your bank account or peek inside your wallet, what would they find out about you?
Would they spot a love for lattes, a weakness for online deals, or maybe a stack of receipts from last week’s lunch out? Or would they notice something deeper such as a pattern, a priority, a purpose?
Whether we realize it or not, our money reveals what we value, where we’re distracted, and what we might be building, or avoiding. These days, most of us aren’t even carrying physical wallets. Our spending lives in apps, autodrafts, and tap-to-pay screens. It’s so fast and so frictionless, we barely feel the transaction.
But even if we’re not paying close attention, our money still is. And the story it’s telling? It’s yours to shape. Money as a Mirror
Let’s be honest: most people don’t love talking about money. It stirs up stress, regret, even a little shame. But that’s exactly why it’s worth looking at.
You don’t need to overhaul everything overnight. You just need to ask yourself:
“What’s my money really doing and is it working for the life I want to live?”
It’s not just about saving more or spending less. It’s about alignment. Because money, at its core, is a mirror. And it’s reflecting back what matters most.
Here are three simple questions to help you take a fresh look at what your financial story is really saying:
1. Do I Know Where My Money Is Going?
It sounds obvious, but many people don’t have a clear picture of where their money actually goes each month.
Budgets often feel restrictive, but in truth, they’re just honest. Think of a budget as a GPS: it doesn’t limit you, it helps you reach your destination.
2. Are My Finances Aligned With My Priorities?
If you say family, faith, or health are important to you, does your money reflect that? If rest is a value, are you creating margin in your schedule and your spending? If community matters, are you supporting it intentionally? Financial misalignment isn’t a failure, it’s a sign. A chance to realign.
3. Is Generosity Part of My Money Story?
Generosity doesn’t just mean giving big, it means giving on purpose. Whether it’s a cause, a neighbor, or a spontaneous act of kindness, building generosity into your financial plan changes how you see your resources. It moves you from scarcity to abundance, and that’s powerful.
So here’s the real question:
If your wallet could talk, would you be proud of the story it’s telling?
Because here’s the good news: the next chapter is entirely up to you.
Get curious. Start small. Pay attention.
You don’t need to be perfect with money. You just need to be purposeful.
Where your money goes, your energy, and heart often follow. When your financial life aligns with your personal values, there’s more clarity, less chaos.
Now, instead of focusing on return on investment, you are solving for return on intention. And that is where real impact lives. Money isn’t math. It’s meaning.
Ande Frazier is a nationally recognized author and financial expert specializing in behavioral finance. A frequent contributor to media outlets like CNBC, HuffPost, and Yahoo Finance, she writes about the emotional
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My Own Path to Jesus
by Filip Brunner
Coming from a communist country, I was exposed to evolution-driven atheism. Atheism was the default norm; there was no comparison. Initially I was exposed only to my grandfather’s teaching about the historical Jesus. But God used progressive revelation of Himself to convince me of His existence, His preeminence, and my need for atonement through the blood of His Son, Jesus. Even as a teenager, I realized that evolution had no or at best very little scientific basis. Evolution is only a poorly constructed philosophical, ideological construct, not based in fact. Evolution uses a question which is answered by another question which is answered by yet another question. But, the foundational question of evolution; where did all of the matter and energy needed to build the universe come from? Cannot be answered by evolution. Matter and energy are something and something cannot come from nothing. Something has to have an origin. Something which had an origin has to have an ORIGINATOR. That Originator has to be transcendent, self-existent, outside of space/time. So, I understood that a supreme being has to exist in order for all of this (the universe, etc.) to exist.
My next step in finding who this being was brought me to the study of mythology. What intrigued me most was this concept that gods and goddesses could have offspring. Which brought me to my grandfather’s teaching about the historical Jesus. Was there more to Jesus than historical evidence that Jesus existed?
Fast forward to when I was 17 or 18 and living in the USA where I had access to something I could compare with atheism and evolution. It was at Faith Baptist Church that I learned, not just about the historical Jesus, but about creation and The Living Word of God through Whom, and for Whom everything that is, was created.
I came to the conclusion that if creation is true, then the fall of mankind and the depravity of mankind is true too.
And the gift of God, in the form of the Lamb of God, and the invitation that Jesus gives: “I stand at the door and knock…” was also true. It was from that knocking at the door of my heart that I realized several things. First, there are only two choices when someone knocks on the door, ignore it or open it. Second, I have never known my earthly father, I was not wanted by him; but my heavenly Father not only wanted me but loved me (John 3:16).
Salvation is an invitation by God to a lost sinner to relinquish their sin and desire to sin, in exchange for an edict of pardon, sonship (adoption), and eternal life. Jesus was knocking on the door of my heart and then gave me the will and power to open the door unto Him. At that moment, I came face to face with EMMANUEL. Jesus shed His blood on the cross. That is His part of the equation. I said,“Come in.” That is my part in the equation of the atonement and Jesus became my substitute. And, I have walked with Jesus since the age of 18.
Filip Brunner is married to his wife, Dr. Kim Brunner and together they have six children. He is a writer, author, and artist.
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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.
dNews for Women
God Is Everywhere—Even on Vacation
by Stephanie Daniels
One of my fondest memories is the family cruise I took last year. We spent seven unforgettable days visiting Turks and Caicos, the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas—enjoying incredible food, fun activities, and breathtaking views. I had never seen anything quite like the sights there! And I got to experience all of it with my family. Family times make the best memories. And the best opportunities for life-changing lessons.
While cruising in the warm weather, I noticed a man on board wearing a sweatshirt that read God is everywhere! My first reaction was to wonder why anyone would wear a sweatshirt in such heat, but as I reflected on the words, I realized the message was deeply profound.
Too often, people tend to leave God at home when they go on vacation. They don’t read their Bibles. They skip prayer. And, they treat vacation as a time off from their relationship with Him. But this shouldn’t be the case. In fact, it’s during these restful moments that we should make space for meaningful time with God.
Remembering that God is everywhere gave me a great sense of peace—especially as I stood on my balcony, gazing out at the vast, endless ocean. Seeing God in the little things in life is truly rewarding. He was present in the clouds, the sunshine, the smell of salt in the ocean, the sounds of the waves, the wonderful meals, the smiles of the people around me, and in the rest and relaxation I experienced during this time.
John 8:37 NIV says, “I know that you are Abraham’s descendants. Yet you are looking for a way to kill me, because you have no room for my word.” We should take a lesson from the religious leaders long ago. Jesus reminded them that they had no room for His word.
Vacations can be filled with shows, excursions, delicious meals, and nonstop entertainment. We certainly enjoyed all of that during our seven days on the cruise. Yet as believers, we must remember that God is always with us. His Word promises, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). Shouldn’t we commit to the same? We can say, “Father, I will never leave nor forsake You.”
During my vacation, I made it a point to begin each day with prayer and spend time reading the Word. I also shared the goodness of God with others I met.
We are blessed to be a blessing. Vacation offers us not only rest but also opportunities to witness to others and sow seeds— whether through encouraging words or acts of generosity.
One of the best parts of traveling is meeting new people. Each conversation becomes a chance to share the good news of the Gospel. You can remind someone that God is omnipresent—He is everywhere, in every moment. He is also omniscient—all-knowing and filled with infinite wisdom. And He is omnipotent—the all-powerful Creator and source of all strength.
So, the next time you go on vacation, have fun, make memories, and don’t forget—God is everywhere!
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
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
Beyond The Slap Of The Old Screen Door
by Carl W. Corser
The slap of the old screen door? What comes to your mind when you hear these words? Have you ever wondered why parents don't teach their children to shut the old screen door softly as they enter the house? In preparation for writing this article, I spent some time asking different individuals the question, "What happens, beyond the slap of the old screen door?" To my surprise, I received twice as many negative responses as positive responses.
I began mulling over the responses. It doesn't have to be this way within our homes. Atmospheres, beyond the slap of the old screen door, do not have to be negative. How can couples change the atmosphere within their homes? Is it really the unknown zone, “”Beyond The Slap Of The Old Screen Door”?
On a joyful day, a couple comes to their wedding, full of hope and excitement. They are ready to pledge their commitment to each other. Then comes the honeymoon, then home to begin their new life.
Then the slap of the old screen door begins to tell the tale of the atmosphere that is beginning to develop. The first spat occurs. The next action that can be observed is the slap of the old screen door all of a sudden becomes louder and longer than normal. Why did it sound different? What makes the louder and longer slap so offensive?
The screen door is for keeping the unwanted critters out. So, maybe we should apply the same principle of the use of the old screen door to our marriages. So, how, when, and how often did the slap volume and its length of the old screen door change?
The couple’s new home is supposed to become a secure place, a place where confidentiality and privacy are important, and so much more. When all of this changes, will the slap of the old screen door change?
How about looking at it this way: The couple has either left the old screen door open or they have failed to repair the hole that has developed in the screen. In either circumstance, the couple has ceased to guard their marriage. They’ve allowed the critters of dishonesty, cheating, anger, selfishness, or any other type of marriage-destroying critter to enter and destroy their
marriage, thus causing a change to develop in the slap sound of the old screen door.
How can we alleviate the loud and long slap of that old screen door and refresh our marriage?
First, we must realize that it doesn’t have to stay this way. Secondly, it will take a commitment from both individuals to enable change. Thirdly, both will have to begin respecting one another again. Fourthly, and probably the most important change, is to ask forgiveness of each other.
We must remember the awesome ability of God's love and how He can change the atmosphere and the old screen door slap noise.
Let's keep our marriages safe from critters that love to get in and do damage, much faster than we realize. May we become better stewards of our marriages, keeping the old screen door shut and or in good repair. Things will happen, but if we are diligent in our marriage protection, the critter damage will be minimal, then God takes care of the rest for us.
A beyond-the-slap-of-the-old-screen-door atmosphere is every couple's responsibility. This responsibility can't be delegated to any other repairman. May we all check our hearing and make sure we are hearing the actual loudness and the length of the slap of the old screen door on our marriage dwellings.
Carl Corser is an ordained bishop, author of a devotion book, “Living Past Sunday,” business owner, farmer, author of a devotion website, carlcorser.com. Carl has pastored several churches.
Burgess Insurance Services: Matching Clients to Companies
A Family Affair
In 2010, Brad Burgess built his current 5th avenue office in the heart of Rome, Georgia. However, the Burgess name has circulated throughout Floyd and Polk County for over thirty years. Frank Burgess, Brad Burgess’s father, opened Frank Burgess Insurance Agency in 1983. Brad began working with his father in 1993 while attending college. One year later, Brad graduated and moved to Rome to partner with his father full-time. Frank Burgess purchased Shelley Insurance in 1997 and led their office in Cedartown, GA, while Brad ran their second location in Rome. Brad Burgess explains, “On January 31, 2025, I bought out my father’s interest in the business, both in the Rome and Cedartown locations. We hope to continue offering the same personal touch that we always have.” Today, Brad and his team of agents continue the legacy Frank Burgess established all those years ago, providing exceptional, personal insurance services to clients throughout Northwest Georgia.
Get To Know Your Local Independent Agent
Burgess Insurance Services provides clients with every type of insurance from Home, Life, Business, Auto, Motorcycle, RV, and more! Brad has earned the highest rankings from Auto-Owners Insurance Company President’s Club since 2017. The President’s Club honors the top 25 Life, Health, and Annuity agents nationwide in a calendar year. This Fortune 500 company has over 24,000 authorized agents in over 30 states. This accolade aside, Burgess Insurance Services’ success is rooted in their partnerships with several carriers and relationships with clients near and far. Brad and his team of five agents can quote and write policies unique to each individual and their specific needs. “Every individual has a different situation, and I like finding companies that work best for each client,” said Brad.
The first step to pairing clients with the perfect policies is getting to know what’s most important to them! This process of getting-to-know their clients is a guiding practice
of Burgess Insurance Services, where Brad and his agents will spend quality, in-office time with clients discussing their distinct needs. In today’s industry, efficiency is priority. Although convenient, this priority often excludes the intentional, in-person attention clients need. Burgess Insurance Services’ office staff is committed to maintaining their clientele, and prefer sit-down meetings to impersonal phone calls or online transactions. Many clients have come into their office wanting business insurance, and through their meeting with Brad, will come back seeking a personal insurance policy too! “I love solving problems, and that’s really what the insurance industry is all about. I like to think of these challenges like the children’s game where you fit shapes into different sized holes. This type of problemsolving doesn’t feel like a job, because I love finding the solution,” said Brad.
Celebrating A Close-Knit Community
Burgess Insurance Services is grateful to work with clients throughout Northwest Georgia, especially rooted within the close-knit community of Rome. “Rome is a real melting pot. It’s big enough to meet new people, but still small enough to foster close, long-lasting friendships,” said Brad. “Some of my clients have been with us for thirty years, and others are my closest friends. We love being able to create personal relationships with our clientele.”
Brad and his family are active and adoring members of the Rome community. In 1996, Brad started dating his wife Lori in college. It wasn’t until Brad graduated and moved to Rome that their romance resurfaced. Lori came into Brad’s office requesting information for home owners’ insurance, and one year later, the two were married. Brad and Lori’s children attended Model High School, where their youngest
graduated. Brad has been involved in sponsoring sports teams and has also helped coach teams for the local YMCA for years. The Burgess family values these community ties, both personally and professionally.
Set Up an Appointment Today
If you are looking for experienced agents who will meet with you, answer your questions, evaluate your individual needs, and match you with a company and policy perfect for you, call Burgess Insurance Services today! Burgess Insurance Services’ offices are located at 114 S Philpot St, Cedartown, GA and 222 N 5th Ave, Rome, GA. You can contact Brad at his Rome office at 706-234-5680.
Gò0 dNews for Everyone
Between the Cherubim (Psalm 80)
by Dr. Rob Debelak
“Hear us, Shepherd of Israel...You who sit enthroned between the cherubim...” (Psalm 80:1 NIV).
Moses received two gifts at Sinai: God’s Law (Exodus 20) and the blueprints for modeling heaven’s worship space (Exodus 25-40). The first piece of furniture listed for this Tabernacle was the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:10-22). A wooden container, the Ark conservatively measured two and a half feet long, a foot and a half wide, and a foot and a half tall. The interior and exterior were overlaid with gold. Moderate in size, beautiful in appearance, and beyond measure in value, it served to embody or house the stone tablets of the Law. A cover of pure gold rested on top as a lid (the Mercy Seat), forming a throne. A golden cherub (a winged, angelic creature) was positioned on each end of the cover. These two beings illustrate worship but are never worshipped themselves.
The Sovereign LORD alone is exalted. Regally distinguished, He is flanked by attendants. From His royal seat, the King communicates His will in word and deed (Exodus 25:22). It was here that God spoke with Moses (Numbers 7:89), and here, in the space between the two angels, the blood of forgiveness was silently applied each year (on the Day of Atonement; Leviticus 16:11-17). Eternally enthroned between the wings sat the Righteous One, Who uttered holy justice and extended incomparable grace.
The replica built in Moses’ day made an indelible impression. From a mobile Tabernacle in the wilderness to an established Temple in the Promised Land, God was reverently described as the One Who ‘dwells between the cherubim.’ During Samuel’s ministry, people knew God by this reference (1 Samuel 4:4), and the title is mentioned in King David’s era (2 Samuel 6:2). Stressing holiness, Solomon’s ornate Temple elaborates the Tabernacle design by surrounding God with winged guardians (1 Kings 1-8). The psalmists thus petition the everlasting Monarch, citing the place where He could always be found...between the cherub’s wings (Psalm 80:1, 99:1).
Prophetic testimony is infused with this sense of heaven’s living reality. The LORD commissions Isaiah
as angelic beings serve around God’s throne (Isaiah 6). Majestic praise is rendered to the Creator dwelling between the wings (Isaiah 37:16). Ezekiel, too, encounters the living God encompassed by His holy attendants (Chapter 10 and Chapter 41).
Centuries later, the LORD chooses this depiction of heaven’s landscape as the backdrop for the capstone of redemptive history. On resurrection Sunday, a lone woman peered into an empty tomb (John 20:1, 10-12). She saw two angels – one on each end of the place where the body of the crucified Jesus had been laid to rest. The empty space between the angels spoke volumes—He had risen! By word and wonder, He communicated a clear message of redemption (Exodus 25:22; John 20:13-18).
Likewise, Luke records the ascension from Mount Olivet in similar imagery (Acts 1:9-12). As the exalted Jesus departs toward heaven, two ‘men’ clothed in white are present. Spotlighting the message in the Lord’s actions, the two messengers alert listeners of similarities to look for when Jesus returns. Paul features these parallels in his encouraging reminder to believers—the Lord will certainly return, accompanied by angels (ll Thessalonians 1:5-7). With such powerful imagery, the inspired revelator (John) need only mention the Ark’s appearance to convey the grandeur and awe of God’s presence (Revelation 11:19).
Remarkably consistent throughout Scripture, God has, is, and will communicate from a sacred space between the wings of the cherubim.
Dog Days of Summer
by Candyce Carden
Toward the end of July and into August, I experienced feelings of malaise and unease. When I shared my thoughts with a friend, she bluntly asked: “Why?”
Why indeed? I didn’t have a concrete answer, so I dismissed her question by saying, “Oh, just the dog days of summer, I guess.”
I heard that phrase for years, but didn’t know what it meant, so I researched its meaning. The Dog Days of Summer references a period of hot and humid weather during July and August. This scorching phase of the year coincides with the rising of Sirius, the Dog Star. Sirius is the brightest star in our sky other than the Sun.
But the real question was why I felt the way I did. At the start of summer, I eagerly anticipated the joy-filled days of the season. Why should a period of dry, sultry heat disrupt those positive vibes?
A Restless Soul
The term restlessness sums up my mood. Writers of the Bible describe restlessness as inner disquiet. Unease is another term used. Restlessness is the opposite of rest. When our soul is restless, it is not at rest.
“Why are you in despair my soul? And why are you restless within me?” (Psalm 42:5; Psalm 42:11; Psalm 43:5 NASB)
The psalmist asks himself these questions three times in Psalm 42 and 43. Clearly, he felt troubled. I understand why he sought answers. Inner disquiet is a hard thing. Bible commentator Andrew MacLaren points out the psalmist is questioning himself as to the reasonableness of the emotions churning in his soul. MacLaren concludes by saying, “Our moods and emotions need to be examined and governed by a higher self.” Was my restlessness unreasonable? I couldn’t identify a specific cause for it, so maybe. I finally took my restlessness to God.
Four Valuable Lessons
God led me to the source of my restlessness during my “Dog Days of Summer.” He also instilled four valuable lessons. I. It’s okay to be vulnerable.
I had a couple of major disappointments this summer that I didn’t deal with. Instead, I ignored them. I swept them under the proverbial rug and kept on trucking. Maybe I feared accepting them made me vulnerable.
II. Feelings of unrest don’t make us less Christian.
I need to acknowledge and evaluate my emotions, including disappointment. I had so many things for which to be thankful that I suffered guilt about my agitation. Restlessness may signal a warning we need to pay attention to, so let’s examine our feelings. During a sermon I heard a while ago, a pastor said our restlessness may be God stirring our soul, calling us to something different.
III. Waiting can be a good thing.
I hate waiting. Impatient for my familiar feeling of contentment to return, I rebelled and turned from God, which only added to the inner turmoil. Waiting with God is to rest in God. And rest is the opposite of restlessness.
IV. Jesus desires to share our burdens.
He tells us so throughout Scripture. In one of my favorite verses, He invites us to share His yoke, follow His lead, and rely on His support. This is the one true path to rest and contentment. “Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls“ (Matthew 11:29 ESV).
Have you ever wrestled with unsettled feelings? How did you handle them? What did you learn?
With permission, this article was adapted for our format from Candyce’s blog, www.candycecarden.com.
Gò0 dNews for Kids
Back to School with God by Your Side
Summer fun is winding down, and it’s time to sharpen pencils, pack backpacks, and head back to school! Going back to school can bring lots of different feelings—maybe you're excited to see your friends, nervous about a new teacher, or curious about what you’ll learn this year. Guess what? God cares about all those feelings and promises to be with you every step of the way.
Even when school feels big and busy, you don’t have to face it alone. The Bible reminds us in Deuteronomy 31:6
NKJV, “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid...for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” That means no matter what your school year looks like, God is with you in the classroom, on the bus, during recess, and even during spelling tests!
Doing Your Best for God
School is a place where you learn and grow—not just in math or
reading, but also in how to treat others and handle challenges. Every day, you have a chance to show kindness, patience, and respect. When you do your best, you’re actually honoring God.
Colossians 3:23 NKJV says, “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” So, whether you’re solving a hard math problem or helping a friend, do it with a cheerful heart—like you're doing it for God.
Making Good Choices
There might be days when it’s hard to do what’s right. Maybe someone is being unkind, or you’re tempted to give up when something is hard. That’s when it’s extra important to remember what God says in Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” God can help you make wise choices—just ask Him! He loves when you talk to Him in prayer, even about small things like a pop quiz or a friendship problem.
You’re Not Alone
One of the best things about school is that you’re never alone. You have classmates, teachers, maybe even brothers or sisters around—but even better, you have God with you all the time. Try starting your morning with a simple prayer like this: “Dear God, thank You for this new school year. Help me to be brave, kind, and do my best. Walk with me through every class and help me to make good choices. Amen.”
Fun Ways to Remember God at School:
• Tape a small Bible verse in your pencil box.
• Say a quick prayer before lunch.
• Write a kind note to a classmate.
• Keep a journal to write down what you're thankful for.
Gò0 dNews for Life
Summer
by Tammy Madden
Summer. What a beautiful time of year! As I sat out on our porch tonight with my beautiful 23 year old daughter (who is special needs and more like a ten year old), along with my five year old granddaughter, I began to think back to a much simpler time in my life. My mind goes back, back to a ten year old me. I remember how we would play in the woods all day from morning until night only coming home for lunch and we knew when it was supper time. There were no cell phones. There was no cable TV. There was no “Siri.” There was no “Alexa.”
We just enjoyed each other's company, the five of us. Mom had three girls and two boys. We didn't worry about Nikes or Fila or Skechers or any name brand anything. We were happy with what we got. Sitting on that porch took me back to eating popsicles on a hot summer day and playing in the hose water along with drinking from the hose all day. We didn't have bottled water. If someone had suggested bottled water, we would have laughed wondering what that even was! I remember us kids catching lightning bugs. Yes, they were not called "fireflies," simply lightning bugs. What wonderful summers we had back then. We would run to our neighbors garden and "steal" his rhubarb. (He knew all along we were getting it. LOL.) We would pick cherries off his cherry tree and lay in the yard trying to figure out what the clouds looked like. We each had a different opinion!
Then my mind went to many years later on August 1, 1992 when we finally pledged our love to each other after seven years of being together. It was another beautiful summer night. Somehow I knew God was building His plan.
We began to think about babies. My dream was to be a mom. We tried and tried. Doctors told us it would never happen. Then on September 15, 1995, I rededicated my life to the Lord. But my husband wasn't ready to give his life to God yet. I prayed and prayed and then on May 13, 2001 it happened! He kneeled at the altar and gave his life to the Lord! And yet again, it was another beautiful summer night in July of 2001 when we found out I was pregnant. God is so good!
Then my mind fast forwards to the 16 and 17 year old me. The me who fell in love with my now husband. We would take long walks at night just holding hands and enjoying each other's company. Again, no cell phones or technology. Just the love we had for each other. I remember sitting in his car at night just talking about our future and looking at the beautiful stars. God already had plans for us that neither one of us could see yet. Oh, how wonderful the world was with no AI or technology.
It was like Sarah in the Bible. Sarah was sure her time was up but God gave them a son. Issac was his name. I wonder how many summers Sarah and Issac sat out and gazed at the stars on a summer's night.
I'm just so grateful that God gives us beautiful summer nights and I just felt the need to share some of mine.
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.
for Discovering More
MORE THAN Stories
by Garrett Nudd
Ilove stories. Every evening we sit around the dinner table as a family and share stories about our day. There’s something about sharing a story. Stories move people— they move people to believe, change, and grow. Stories move people to love.
Over the years I’ve learned a sad and unfortunate truth. Most people view themselves as less than. Less than they are. Less than others see them. And less than God designed them to be.
I’m not a psychologist or psychotherapist. And I have no formal training in how to help people feel their best.
Who am I? I am a husband to my wife, Joy. She loves me beautifully, and after a quarter of a century, I still can’t figure out why, but I’ll go with it! I’m a father to three strong, beautiful, spirited daughters. And most importantly, I’m a child of God.
Last year I published my first book. And during the process, I did a lot of reflecting. I realized the less-than perception we often have of ourselves is contrary to everything God stands for and every promise He’s ever made. If only we could see ourselves through His eyes. If only we could see why He loves us and how He loves us, I think everything would change, especially how we feel about ourselves. And how we feel about our own stories.
The truth is, when you think you’re less than, God says you are MORE THAN. When you think you are less than, God says you are His.
“Oh, I love you beyond your wildest dreams,” God says. “Make no mistake about it.”
“I wish you could see yourself the way I do.”
“I wish you could see yourself the way I created you.”
My life story is fairly ordinary. But as I’ve reflected, I’ve discovered countless times when God has shown up in the simplest moments and revealed Himself as MORE THAN.
I was raised right, by most standards. And I’ve lived mostly right, by my standards. But I’ve wrestled with God. I’ve tried being in charge. I’ve tested Him. And I’ve tried calling His bluff. I’ve denied Him, turned my back on Him, and more than once I’ve given up and thrown in the towel.
But every time I’ve found Him waiting there at the end of a chapter in my story with the most beautiful words, “You are MORE THAN.”
In the Gospel of Luke, the prodigal son returns home to a father who is outside in the driveway with his arms open wide ready to welcome him. That’s MORE THAN. He doesn’t just wait for his son to come to the door. He’s looking for him. And when he sees him, he races toward him. That’s MORE THAN.
No, I haven’t squandered an inheritance on gluttonous and frivolous pursuits, and I haven’t dined on slop with swine. But more than once I’ve been the prodigal. And I bet you have too. Sometimes it’s gotten pretty uncomfortable. In my own MORE THAN journey, I’ve discovered that God is pushing me to give MORE THAN—more of myself, more of my time, more of my talents and resources, and more of my heart. Even when I felt I had nothing more to give, He’s challenged me to give more. But you know what? That’s giving MORE THAN. And that’s what He’s given me.
I’ve come to understand when God gives us MORE THAN, He expects us to give MORE THAN so others can experience MORE THAN too. Did you catch that? It’s big. Go ahead and read it again. It’s okay—I’ll wait.
Got it? Now let’s go.
Garrett Nudd serves as director of communications for AdventHealth Georgia. His recent book, MORE THAN: Discovering How Your Story Reveals God’s Beautiful Truth About You, challenges readers to shift their paradigm from less than to MORE THAN.
for your Taste Buds
Quick and Easy One-Pan Chicken and Veggies
Guess which month is most popular for moves and relocations? August! Here’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for those hectic moving days when you need a nutritious and satisfying meal without much fuss. This one-pan chicken and veggies recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with protein and nutrients to keep you energized during the moving process. The minimal cleanup and simple preparation make it an ideal choice for those busy, transitional days. Enjoy a wholesome meal without the hassle, and keep your move stress-free!
Ingredients
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
• 2 cups baby carrots
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken, rubbing it in to coat.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the baby potatoes, baby carrots, broccoli florets, and bell pepper slices. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the vegetables until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning.
4. Assemble the Pan: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Arrange the vegetables around the chicken, spreading them out in a single layer for even cooking.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Moving Day:
1. Prep Ahead: If you know you’ll be busy on moving day, prep the chicken and vegetables the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, so all you need to do is pop them onto the baking sheet and into the oven.
2. Use Disposable Baking Sheets: To make cleanup even easier, consider using disposable aluminum baking sheets. This way, you can toss the whole thing once you’re done, saving precious time and effort.
3. Portable Meal: This meal is perfect for packing into containers and eating on the go if you’re in between homes or need to take a break during the move.
4. Customizable: Switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or green beans are all great alternatives.
Woven Thread of Love
by Lori McAfee
Woven by the Creator’s glorious hand, Intricately threaded every stitch and every strand.
Praise be to the Lord!
Woven fearfully and wonderfully, graciously adored.
Thread by thread without exception, Marvelous works stitched to perfection.
Woven and securely tethered,
Love threaded the needle of scarlet infinitely measured.
For all mankind, the sacrifice paid.
A mysterious treasure, the world to illuminate.
Woven strands of two are better than one, Despite unraveling, tattered, and torn, Designed to complete the tapestry of life,
An array of colors, delicate and divine. No single thread can fulfill the work of art.
Friendship’s elegant hand lifts the heart.
Tangled as one shall cease to proceed,
Intertwined as two empower the stitch to victory!
Oh, the strength in cord of three, The Father, The Son, The Holy Spirit dwell within me.
Woven and intertwined will complete the eternal tapestry, Crafted by the skilled weaver intentionally.
The unseen confess
Vast colors mingled and unified reveal a mess.
A masterpiece of skilled workmanship, Woven by hand with a firm grip.
Remnants of scarlet thread reveal: Love was woven for each thread so surreal. The masterpiece was given at such a price,
The Eternal Tapestry, woven with threads, complete in Jesus Christ.
McAfee, author
for Seniors When Ladybugs Say Hi!
by Stephanie Evans
As an elderly single woman after a late-life divorce, I learned to keep myself company and keep moving. I get outside at least once a day, if weather permits, and when relatives gifted me with a much-appreciated car, I started driving to stores for supplies or just stopping by local frozen yogurt or custard shops when I can afford dessert.
(Incidentally, when I didn't have a vehicle postdivorce, I rode the Cleveland Urban Area Transit System city buses, which serve the Cleveland area on several routes from early morning to early evening. It's a great and affordable way to travel locally Monday through Friday).
But one lonely Sunday night stands out in my memory now. (First, let me clean the cream soda off my eyeglasses and floss this turkey sandwich away. There. That's better).
Anyway, that night—I stopped at one of my favorite frozen yogurt shops and parked my car to sit with myself and enjoy vanilla-cherry amaretto. In front of my car, about ten feet away, yellow and black caution tape surrounds a small depressed square full of gravel and broken pieces of old asphalt. (We feel ya!) The cool autumn breeze trembles the plastic warning. Then the breeze settles, gracing that tape into a curve. (Was that God, smiling at me? Yes, I think it was).
Dusk turns the day gray and solemn. Cars whoosh by steadily on the recently-repaired four-lane behind me. I try to call one friend--busy and unavailable. At that point, I feel like one line of a couplet.
A piercing car alarm disturbs my daze, then quickly shuts off. I remember my former family, when we used to watch our television shows and laugh together or go to church and serve Communion or take our children to class and nursery, when I was a happy mother of children.
But my children are grown and on their own, as they should be. I miss the old days sometimes--even the old
cradle phones and land lines. And yet I enjoy and appreciate new technology that lets me get nearly-instant photos and texts and calls from family, even when they travel long distances. I just got photos of my granddaughter on a first school field trip. My heart melts and I rejoice at the festive colors and happy faces. Now I'm a happy grandmother!!
Anyway, let me get to the ladybug! That Sunday evening, everybody I know was busy—or maybe just worn out from the workweek. But God is God and never wears out. I look down while my warm car turns that pink and white frozen treat melt-y around the edges. (Yum!) I look up and see ten gentle raindrops on my car's front windshield. I knew God saw me. Maybe He wept with me. “Thank You,” I say.
As I got ready to leave the parking lot, a coral ladybug touched down on my driver's side window. “Wow!” I thought. “A ladybug!” With tiny wings and vibrant colors, she flew away with my despair. I flew home to my next good book. (Hooray!! Another good day!!)
Stephanie Evans is a retired newspaper reporter/library clerk. She is a mother and grandmother, She enjoys semi-sweet iced tea with just about everything! One of her favorite verses is John 3:16-17.
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.
“WE love IT HERE!”
There are so many reasons to love living at The Spires, a stunning lakeside senior living community immersed in the vibrant campus culture of Berry College. A 27,000-acre backyard full of walking paths, wildlife and breathtaking views. A state-of-the-art fitness center offering everything from cardio drumming to water fitness. A bustling music scene where you can sing, dance or jam to your heart’s content. And the peace of mind of a full continuum of care if further assistance is ever needed.
What our residents are saying:
“I’ve enjoyed making new friends and the staff is unbelievable from top to bottom.” — Dr. Woody Davis, Resident
“People here have been intensely supportive, and they mean it. It’s been a happy serendipity.” — Ann Marie Hollomon, Resident
“I think the best way I can describe the experience here is ‘community’ and I just give thanks. The opportunities are just endless for people to connect.” — Dr. Jennifer Barbieri, Daughter of Resident
“For social, emotional, mental and physical wellbeing — everything I need is here. It’s just been amazing the way our community loves each other.” — Julie Wahtola, Resident
Come see for yourself — we think you’ll love it here, too. Call 706-524-0600 or visit RetireAtBerry.com to schedule a personal tour.