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Keep reaching for what makes you feel whole.
Surprises. Triumphs. Breakthroughs. For every moment when words just won’t do, we give it our all so you can, too. Because there’s a whole lot of life to love, and the joy’s worth the journey. As you strive for what makes you come alive, we’ll be here — seeing, hearing and helping you feel whole.
About Us
WRITERS
Ben Johnson
Filip Brunner
Garrett Nudd
Granger Hughes
Hayden Lanier
Jan Merop
Katie Taylor
Kirstin Reggel
Mitch Jolly
Dr. Richard Dixon
Rodney Jones
Stephanie Stewart
Zebbie Brewster
SALES
Matthew Ruckman
423-503-1410
Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com
DESIGN
Caleb Prytherch
Kylie Fowler
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
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.
from the Pastor’s
Order Out of Chaos
by Dr. Richard Dixon
Order in the court! Order in the court! This is a common command that one might hear in a court of law when the judge demands everyone to stop talking or in some cases, stop shouting over each other. When the judge desires to restore peace, he will pound a gavel on the desk and loudly exclaim, “Order in the court!” Everyone will instantaneously quiet down. With one command, order is brought. But what does one do in life when it becomes chaotic? Where is that judge when you need him? The Bible enlightens one as to how chaos is controlled. Really it does, and a deep search is not required to find that God brought order out of chaos right in the beginning.
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters, And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness” (Genesis 1:1-4 ESV).
The author brings the reader’s attention to Earth’s creation. Like a judge in a courtroom, God brought order to a chaotic situation. Notice God’s handiwork when He created something from nothing. In verse 2, the Spirit of God was hovering. The words portray the presence of the Creator. God’s Spirit was moving back and forth over the chaos. Imagine the love and excitement He must have had knowing what He was about to create. The good news for us to learn from this is when life seems to be chaotic, God can bring order out of it. He can create something beautiful out of it.
When life gets complicated, God is not surprised by it. Nothing takes Him by surprise. Remember that God can bring order out of chaos just like He did in the beginning and He has given us many promises to help us through chaotic times.
“For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NKJV)
Chaos is a state of confusion or a state of things in which chance is supreme. God wants neither of these.
“For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints” (1 Corinthians 14:33 NKJV).
Take comfort in knowing that God wants peace, not confusion. Nothing takes Him by surprise and things are not happenstance when you seek Him and His will. Envision God in Heaven slamming down His heavenly gavel and order is once again established. There is chaos where God is not present. There is peace where God abides.
Chaos may continue to pop up in our lives, but with faith in God and His plan, order can be obtained. You might be thinking, how is order brought into my life? With faith. I know, it sounds too simple, right?
“But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV).
When life comes at you hard and chaos abounds, seek Him, and order can be secured. God loves you and wants peace for you, not chaos. Trust and seek Him in the chaos and you will find the peace in His order.
About The Author
Rev. Richard Dixon, ThD, lives in Rome, Georgia, with his wife, Kathy, and serves at Legacy Church. He is a member of World Bible Way Fellowship (Ben Franklin, TX) and holds a doctorate in Theology from Andersonville Theological Seminary and a master’s in Applied Biblical Studies from Moody Theological Seminary. He is
What is Your Testimony?
by Hayden Lanier
Ilove hearing people share their testimonies. It is truly beautiful to hear someone talk about how they came to know Jesus. But unfortunately, I have heard people share a version of their testimony where they made no mention of Jesus or salvation. Your testimony is not the story of good things God has done for you or how the Lord led you to a particular school or career path. Your testimony is not limited to how God helped you overcome some struggles or trials. These things are a part of your testimony, and God certainly uses them, but your testimony is primarily the story of how you were dead in sin but have now been made alive in Jesus. Your testimony’s details are unique because we are all unique. We have different backgrounds and varying life experiences, so share those details. Be discerning about what you say (for example, maybe don’t tell someone you just met about a sin you still struggle with), but be honest. Make it personal and truthful.
If you’ve never shared your testimony, a good way to structure it is to answer these three questions: 1. What was my life like before Jesus? 2. How did I come to know Jesus? 3. What is my life like now with Jesus?
This model is something that we see laid out in Scripture, with one well-known example being Ephesians 2:1-10. This passage answers these questions by teaching that before Jesus, we were dead in sin, following after the world and after Satan, living in the passions of our flesh, and we were children of wrath by nature (Ephesians 2:1-3). But God has made us alive with Christ, saved us by grace — not by works — raised us up and seated us with Him in the Heavenly places (Ephesians 2:4-9). The third question — who we are now — is also answered in that we are God’s workmanship (Ephesians 2:10), which means that we are His masterpiece! God has good works for us to do that He has already planned for us, “that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10 ESV).
Knowing Jesus changes everything. You cannot have a testimony apart from the one you are testifying about. Tell others you were dead in sin but are now alive. You were
following after whatever the world said and whatever your fleshly nature prompted you to do, but you have been saved by the grace of God alone. You were born in a fallen state by nature, but now God continues to show you the riches of His grace in kindness in Christ.
You might wonder why this is important or if you need to share your testimony. There is power in your testimony because there is power in the gospel. There is power in your testimony because your testimony is the truth of how you have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus. There is power in your testimony because there is power in the God who has changed your life, and you want others to know Him as well. Telling others your testimony makes sharing the gospel personal and builds a connection between you and them. Your salvation story is one of the greatest tools you have been equipped with as a child of God.
May you boldly proclaim how God has “called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9 ESV). Have you encountered Jesus; has He changed your life? If so, who can you share your testimony with?
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. 8 // May 2025
How important is the difference between growing our wealth and withdrawing it?
Growing Our Wealth Versus Withdrawing It
Money Matters Granger Hughes with
Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes works with his father to help provide educational opportunities for clients as well as others in the community. He feels a responsibility to help inform those who may otherwise not be aware of strategies, changes, and opportunities available to them when it comes to their financial well-being.
Understanding the distinction between the contribution and distribution phases of wealth accumulation is essential for effective retirement planning. While accumulating wealth during our working years focuses on growth through consistent contributions, the distribution phase requires a careful strategy to ensure that our savings provide sustainable income throughout retirement.
Contribution Phase: Building Wealth
During our working years, the primary goal is to accumulate wealth. This phase involves regular contributions to retirement accounts such as 401(k)s or IRAs, often utilizing strategies like dollar-cost averaging. By investing a fixed amount regularly, regardless of market conditions, we purchase more shares when prices are low and fewer when prices are high, potentially lowering our average cost per share over time. This approach harnesses the power of compound growth, where earnings generate their own earnings, significantly enhancing the growth of our investments.
Distribution Phase: Managing Withdrawals
Transitioning to retirement shifts the focus from accumulating assets to managing withdrawals. The sequence in which returns occur becomes crucial during this phase. Sequence-of-returns risk refers to the danger that the timing of withdrawals from a retirement account will harm the investor’s overall rate of return. Experiencing poor investment returns early in retirement, when portfolio balances are higher due to accumulated contributions, can significantly impact the sustainability of withdrawals.
During our working careers it doesn’t matter when the losses occur so long as we don’t touch the money. Our average 4.8% return ends up being the same between portfolios A and B. However, once in retirement even though we have an identical average return of 4.8%, we have a wide gap between the two in terms of dollars left after 20 years. The difference between the contribution phase and the distribution phase is not merely a matter of saving versus spending. It requires thoughtful
consideration of how we position our assets throughout both phases, especially when it comes to risk management, tax strategies, and distribution planning.
Strategies to Mitigate Sequence-of-Returns Risk
To safeguard retirement income against unfavorable sequences of returns, consider the following strategies:
1. Diversify Your Portfolio: Maintain a mix of asset classes to buffer against market volatility. Diversification can help mitigate the impact of poor performance in any single investment.
2. Adjust Asset Allocation Over Time: Gradually reduce exposure to high-risk investments as retirement approaches, aligning your portfolio with your risk tolerance and income needs.
3. Establish a Sustainable Withdrawal Strategy: Determine withdrawal rates that balance income needs with the longevity of your portfolio. Some experts suggest the “4% rule” as a starting point, but it’s essential to tailor this based on individual circumstances and market conditions.
4. Maintain Cash Reserves: Keep a portion of your portfolio in liquid, low-risk assets to cover several years of living expenses. This approach allows you to avoid selling investments during market downturns, preserving the potential for recovery.
5. Regularly Review and Adjust Your Plan: Periodically assess your financial situation, investment performance, and changing needs. Adjust your strategy as necessary to stay aligned with your retirement goals.
In conclusion, the transition from the contribution phase to the distribution phase necessitates a shift in strategy from growthfocused accumulation to preservation and sustainable withdrawal. Understanding the impact of sequence-of-returns risk and implementing strategies to mitigate it are crucial for ensuring that retirement savings provide reliable income throughout retirement. By proactively managing asset allocation, withdrawal strategies, and diversification, retirees can enhance the likelihood of financial security and peace of mind in their later years.
for Everyone
Study in Genesis: The Creation of Humans
by Filip Brunner
“And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth” *(Genesis 1:26 KJV).
Let’s Focus on Verse 26
God speaks. He issues a command as before and nothing happens. So, what is going on?
Man is a special creation different from anything else God has created thus far. The creation of Humankind requires additional steps.
1. Making of the human male was first. God makes the man out of dust. “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” (Genesis 2:7a).
of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die” (Genesis 2:16-17).
God is the potter: “But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand“ (Isaiah 64:8).
God gives a clear understanding that He wants our relationship with Him to be a personal and intimate one. As the Potter, God molds and shapes us into the thing of beauty He desires us to be. He takes time to remove impurities from the clay. He adds water and pressure to make of us a fitting image and likeness of His dear Son.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).
2. The man is given responsibility by his creator.
A. For physical labor: “And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it” (Genesis 2:15).
B. For spiritual initiative: “And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat
C. For intimate socioeconomic and emotional union: “And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man” (Genesis 2:22).
The creation of the woman is unique in that she is taken out of the man. There is a special connection between a man and a woman.
The creation of man and woman completes the creative work of God. While the creation of the man and the woman is different for both of them, the fact remains that humankind bears the image of God who created us. Their union as husband and wife is blessed by God with these words: “And God blessed them, and God said unto them, ‘Be fruitful, and multiply’” (Genesis 1:28a).
May this prompt you to continue to read and study about Creation. As the new year begins, renew your commitment to studying the Scriptures.
*All Scriptures are KJV.
Filip Brunner is married to his wife, Dr. Kim Brunner and together they have six children. He is a writer, author, and artist.
Why You Don’t Love Your Life
by Stephanie Stewart
As women, we are created to live purpose-filled lives, but most of us are so busy with the day-today tasks of survival that we never discover what that purpose is.
Our days are filled with things that have to be done, and we’re told that we must balance our time so that we take care of our own health, continue to grow both personally and spiritually while also having enough energy left over to do something fun once in a while. Striving for the perfectly balanced life is exhausting.
So, why aren’t we living that perfectly balanced life – a life we truly love? Let’s consider five things:
1. You’re living in the past.
Your brain is naturally wired for survival. Your brain has proof that everything you went through to reach this point in life kept you alive. Its main job is to keep you safe, and it believes that the most efficient way to do that is for you to stay stuck in the past because you survived it. Creating a new path for yourself requires energy, but your brain likes the path of least resistance. Once you understand how your brain works, you’ll be able to start making choices from your prefrontal cortex (your logical brain) and not stay stuck in the past.
2. You don’t know what you really want.
One reason you may not be living a life you truly love is because you’re not sure what you want. But God knows, and he’d love to hear it from you. Psalm 37:4-5 says, “Take
delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you.”
Just as the seasons in nature change, our seasons of life change. Clarity is the first step to creating a different life. And if it aligns with God’s will, He’s thrilled to help you.
3. Your “why” isn’t strong enough.
When you embark on a new journey, you have to start by asking yourself why you want to go there. If your reason isn’t strong enough, it’ll be easy to just give up.
4. You lack confidence.
If you’re not confident in yourself causing you to settle for a mediocre life rather than stepping out in faith and pursuing your dreams. However, confidence is a skill that you can cultivate, not a personality trait that you were either born with or without.
5. You’re not living with intention.
If you live in a constant state of busyness, you may never give yourself time to slow down and create a plan to reach your goals. But you can actually do more when you focus on doing less. You have to be able to scrutinize everything in your schedule so that you intentionally plan time for the things that are most important.
Create a Plan for Your Life
While there may be many other reasons why you aren’t living a life you love, the good news is that you get to choose what comes next. Your destiny is your responsibility. Don’t let your past, or other people, talk you out of becoming the woman that God created you to be.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” – Jeremiah 29:11.
This article was adapted for our format from Stephanie’s blog, www.stephaniestewartcoaching.com.
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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
706-235-5892
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
Praying for the One
by Katie Taylor
When you’re young and in love, you think it will last forever. Sometimes it does, but it’s hard to keep it strong when you’re growing up and changing and moving off to college. You feel like you have control over everything and nothing at the same time. You feel as though God is constantly handing you opportunities, but simultaneously showing you that He is always in control.
When I was younger I read a book called Praying for Your Future Husband. At first, reading that book felt like a major cliche. Praying for your future husband, meeting someone who checks all your boxes, and making a list for what you hope your future husband will be like; is all something we learn in youth group and we’re encouraged to do to help strengthen our faith and help us understand patience.
In college, I thought that I met the man I was going to marry. He was a Christian; he loved me; he took care of me, and made me feel heard and understood. He was a reconnection from high school, a classic story. I had prayed for my husband, read the book, filled in the blanks, and there he was. We talked about marriage and kids, what our house would be like, and where we would live. We were long distance but making it work. I thought this was it and that I was done with the dating thing. That was until I met the man I knew I would marry.
Eventually, my boyfriend and I broke up. It was one of the worst heartbreaks I have ever experienced. But, the heartbreak was short-lived because God had brought me solace. He brought me another opportunity at love, and this time, it was the one.
The difference between the relationship with the man I thought I would marry and the relationship with the man I knew I would marry was the certainty I felt. I had never felt a feeling like this before and I knew this had to be something that God had sent me.
Yes, you read that correctly. I met the man I knew I would marry while dating the man I thought I would marry. It was a very scary and confusing feeling. I felt like I was living in some kind of bad romance novel.
I prayed, and prayed, and prayed again, for six months. I reread that book and it just made it all the more confusing. I knew this was a lesson in patience and a test of my faith, so I just had to let God handle it and do what I could do which was to pray and wait.
I will leave you with this. God will always lead us in the right direction. Sometimes we’ll take a detour and wonder if we will ever get back on track. Everyone feels these feelings, and I hope my story brings you peace with whatever may come your way. Patience is a tough thing to learn, but Jesus will lead you through to the other side.
Katie Taylor is a senior at Dalton State College. She will earn her bachelor’s degree in English in May. She lives with her husband Aaron, and their cat Rafiki in Ringgold, Georgia.
Where Trust and Care Connect
“The entire TruPoint team is committed to providing outstanding service and compassionate care grounded in true respect for you and your unique health needs.” – Gregory M. Rogers, MD
Internal Medicine | Primary Care
909 N. Fifth Ave. NE Rome, GA 30165
706-252-8117
www.trupointphysicians.com
The Herb Shop On Broad
Health and wellness are more than just words. They are a priority at The Herb Shop on Broad.
The staff at The Herb Shop on Broad is willing to work alongside anyone in their pursuit of being well. It is a journey, but it is well worth the effort.
Larry is the owner of the shop. His interest in herbs and vitamins started when he was in high school. Linda, who has worked alongside Larry, has been interested in alternative supplements for a very long time. She has been challenged to learn about different supplements to aid her in her desire to obtain wellness. Larry and Linda have worked together since 2013. The shop itself opened in 1987, and Larry has continued its legacy of offering quality products, top-notch customer service, sharing knowledge, and making friends.
Linda studied reflexology to increase her knowledge of the body and how it functions, but most of all to help others. Reflexology benefits the whole body by increasing
blood flow, and as a result of increased blood flow, it can bring pain relief. It is very relaxing as well.
The Herb Shop offers a large selection of high-quality products that address any issue customers might be experiencing. It is surprising, to say the least, when one walks into the shop and sees all of the selection that is offered! It is important to know that the products offered are all high-quality, regularly tested products. The Herb Shop offers products for every system of the body and products for every concern. If you have problems with sleeping, pain, allergies, weight loss, stress, gut health, digestion, weakened immune system, or inflammation, let The Herb Shop suggest products that will be beneficial. The brands that you will find at The Herb Shop are of the highest quality, and that is important to know.
In addition to The Herb Shop’s vast selection of supplements, they also offer homeopathic remedies. You will find a complete selection of Newton’s Homeopathy as
well as Boiron. Newton’s offers remedies for children and adults in liquid and pellets. The pet products only come in liquid form.
Do you have any specific concerns, or do you just want to feel better, have more energy, and maybe lose a few pounds? Pay a visit to The Herb Shop. Any member of the staff is able and willing to help you.
If you want to dig a little deeper into your health concerns, The Herb Shop on Broad offers a Zyto scan. This can be a very useful tool for determining what supplements would work best for an individual.
The herb business has definitely changed over the years, and The Herb Shop has done a great job of keeping up with the demands of change.
The Herb Shop offers shipping. If you live out of town and need supplements, give them a call. If your order totals $50 or more, you’ll receive free shipping!
Are you looking for local, raw honey? Look no further than The Herb Shop on Broad.
Are you looking for raw milk for those four-legged family members? The Herb Shop has it.
The Herb Shop on Broad offers a line of skin care products that are all natural. Larry says, “There are
absolutely no chemicals or water in them. Our soaps are chemical-free. Our skin is our largest organ, and it protects our internal organs. We must take care of it.
Bottom line, we are here for you, our customer. We value you, and we know that we wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you. We are here to serve you.”
The Herb Shop is located at 103 Broad Street in Rome, GA 30161. The telephone number is 706-232-4447. The hours are 8:30 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Saturday, and Sunday noon to 6:00 pm.
What goals do you have concerning your health and well-being? Whatever they are, Larry and the staff at The Herb Shop on Broad can help. And tell them the folks at GoodNews sent you!
HERB The Shop
for Seniors
Becoming an Overcomer
by Zebbie Brewster
When I was a child growing up I remember hearing my mom praying during the day. I am thinking she would be in the back bedroom praying while me and my two younger brothers were in the living room and my dad would be at work. I am sure she needed that quick moment alone with God. Even if we could not hear all she was praying, we knew what she was doing. She was setting the example for us to know that every day needed to be prayed about.
It wasn’t long after that time that Mom started having some health problems. As a child I couldn’t do a lot to help, but I knew to pray. That brings to my memory that
prayer. I want to hear every word my mom is praying aloud! It is awesome to still hear her calling our names in prayer. She thanks God for us, that God has allowed her to still have her three children at her age and our ages. She thanks God for her home, health and healing.
Something new she prays for is that God would help her to be an overcomer. It seems that her body is wearing out and daily she faces the challenges of living in her pain-filled body. So all those years ago when Mom set the example of praying daily for her children, she knew that only with God’s help would we be able to make it through. We too would have families to pray for and about. Our lives have not been without their problems. Every night Mom thanks us for continuing to pray for her, as she says she sure needs the prayers. At my mom’s age there is not a whole lot she needs anymore in her life than heartfelt prayers. I don’t know where I would be without my mom’s prayers and I thank God for them. I too want to be an overcomer.
at night before we went to bed, we had a family prayer time. We would bow on our knees next to the couch in the living room. We were all talking to God at the same time. That was probably 60 years ago. The power of prayer has not changed.
My mom still reminds me to pray about everything. Every night before I leave her to go home, we hold hands and pray. Most of the time, I am the one to lead us in
Webster defines overcomer as to conquer, to overpower, to get the better of. The Bible speaks of Jesus being our overcomer in John 16 verse 33 KJV, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
Pray that you find God’s peace as you trust Him to help you overcome whatever life sends your way.
Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.
Gò0 dNews for Parents
Boundaries
by Mitch Jolly
The Lord performed the first wedding ceremony in Eden for His image-bearing creatures Adam and Eve with the mission of filling the earth with other image-bearers and ruling over creation as his co-regents. It is perhaps a little bit of an oversimplification, yet I believe the work from Genesis 1 can be placed into two large categories: Parenting and the vocational ordering of creation.
Let’s study the outskirts of the parenting category by introducing boundaries as part of our parenting work. Why boundaries? Boundaries are part of the nature of God and boundaries are all over creation as God’s means of separating order from chaos. Some boundaries are built-in and naturally reward those who keep them or discipline those who break them.
Because of the curse of sin and the resulting chaos incited by the serpent, parenting is a continual struggle to create order physically, emotionally, and mentally by setting and keeping the right boundaries. Chaos is the work of the serpent. Order is the labor of God’s people through relationships, our homes, and the physical labor of creation’s domains.
One of the many tools the Lord gives us to multiply order and defeat chaos is the gift of boundaries. What is a boundary? “Boundaries define us. They define what is me and what is not me. A boundary shows me where I end and someone else begins, leading me to a sense of ownership,” explains Dr. Cloud and Townsend, “Boundaries” p. 31.
Knowing what I am supposed to be responsible for and what I am not responsible for is freeing. Are you aware of how boundaryless we can be? Boundary-less-ness is a function of darkness and the chaotic work of the Serpent. If I am willing to own what I’m responsible for, God’s options for good are joyfully available. If I don’t own what I’m responsible for, good options get cut off, and I will receive corrections.
Physical boundaries are real. Spiritual boundaries are just as real, and because of the curse of sin, our spiritual blindness, and an active enemy who seeks to sow chaos, they are harder to perceive. Physical and spiritual
boundaries come from the nature of God. He defines Himself as distinct from His creation by letting us know He is holy. He defines for us what constitutes meeting His standard of holiness. Holiness is a boundary.
Boundaries are a gift from God to us for order. Make an effort to become aware of them, set them, and obey them. Teach your children to accept the “no” and grow in truth. To either be unaware of or ignorant of boundaries is evidence we have to grow in the knowledge of God and
the knowledge of ourselves. This is why John says if we say we love God and hate our brother we don’t know God. To say we are not aware of or don’t practice boundaries is to admit we still don’t understand God’s standards, and thus we don’t understand humanity very well. As you parent, challenge any instruction that dismisses “NO” as a good and healthy means of protecting and training children.
As a parent, pursue what is true. Be a curious seeker of truth. Hide God’s word in your heart, and study all things to know what is true. Pass this curious seeking of truth on to your children by including them in the search.
Don’t lose heart. Keep setting boundaries. Keep obeying the Lord. Lean on each other for support.
This article was adapted for our format from Pastor Jolly’s website, theologyinthedirt.com.
Mitch Jolly resides in Rome, Georgia. He can be reached at
for Kids
Frolicking Like a Calf
by Jan Merop
Hello, Kids! This article is part of our Chatty Critters series. Check in future issues for another installment in this series.
The green pastures tempted Frisky – again!
Glancing quickly over his shoulder, Frisky saw his mother happily grazing with the mama cows. He set aside her warning not to stray too far from the other calves.
And, for the most part, he almost always obeyed.
Frisky thought, There’s just something about springtime and sunshine that makes me want to skip and jump and explore new places.
Meanwhile, his mama and the other cows enjoyed God’s green grass where they were.
“I try not to smother Frisk,” said his mom; “but he doesn’t realize that his pure white coat is tempting to rustlers and can bring danger.”
“He is unusually beautiful,” said her friend. “One day he will understand your heart.”
She knew God had made calves with a frolicking nature. She pictured Frisky kicking up his heels delightedly when his stall was opened. His exuberance always brought a smile to her. She didn’t want him to be fearful…just careful.
She lifted her soulful brown eyes to check on him once more and discovered only tan, mottled, and black calves playing together. Pure white Frisky was nowhere to be seen.
Panic invaded her calm nature as she moved deliberately toward the pastures beyond the book. As she came closer, she began to moo a sound that her little calf knew very well.
Frisky was about to cross the brook when he noticed that the green, glowing grass was actually shiny, flat, and trampled. Then he saw men on horseback riding toward him.
His heart started beating faster and harder than ever before. The beat of it screamed D A N G E R!!! His mom’s persistent voice echoed in his mind.
“God has gifted you with an exceptionally white coat. Protect yourself from those who may want what you have.”
“Moo!!!” His mom’s cry alerted him. Turning swiftly, he propelled his legs into a flying leap home.
Frisky and his mom nuzzled each other while he listened to her warnings again.
“I’m sorry, Mom. I know now that I was being careless and selfish. Please forgive me for making you worry.”
Then he admitted that the glowing sunlit grass looked too good to be true. And it was! “I’m saving my energy for the right pastures!” exclaimed Frisky.
Exploring Truth Through God’s Creation
“The sun of righteousness (Jesus) will dawn on those who honor (respect) my name, healing radiating from its wings. You will be bursting with energy, like colts frisky and frolicking.”
Malachi 4:2, The Message
The Calf and You
Have you ever been so happy that you wanted to kick up your heels, dance, and jump for joy?
The Bible says that person is like a frolicking calf that’s just been released from his stall.
Calves are portrayed as among the happiest of God’s creatures in the Bible.
We’ve all been given at least one special Gift (like Frisky) and should treat it with care. God will use it to help others know about Him. Seek truth and be full of care for the Things that matter to God.
Then you’ll be like a happy, carefree calf in The Bible…leaping for joy!
Remember, when tempting things appear too good to be true, they usually are TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE!
Gò0 dNews for Everyone You Too
by Rodney Jones
“You too can be used,” said the donkey to her master.
This incredible story is found in Numbers 22:21-33. It is one of those stories that is very hard to believe. We all know that animals don’t talk. Well except in this case. This donkey not only spoke with a man’s voice, (2 Peter 2:16) but this donkey saw an invisible angel. God used this donkey to rebuke Balaam, her master, and to even save Balaam’s life from sure execution by the angel of the Lord; “…surely now also I had slain thee…”
God not only used a donkey in His work, but He also used birds. God used ravens to feed His prophet, Elijah. “And the ravens brought him bread and flesh…” two times every day (1 Kings 17:4-6). God used a fish, “…a great fish, to swallow up Jonah” (Jonah 1:17).
God even used a perfect man once. God used Adam, before the fall, to name the animals and to name his help meet, Eve. It’s very hard for me to identify with being a perfect man. But thank the Lord He also uses imperfect, fallen people. God has used murderers, adulterers, and even idolators.
God used Balaam. He betrayed Israel and led them astray for money, and yet God used him. Moses murdered a man and yet God used him (Exodus 2:11-12). David committed adultery and had Bathsheba’s husband killed, and yet God used him (2 Samuel 11:117). Solomon worshipped idols and yet God used him (1 Kings 11:1-6). Saul of Tarsus executed Christians and put hundreds of people in prison and yet God used him in an extraordinary way (Acts 8:1-3).
resurrection of Jesus Christ. That is the story of “good news” that must be told. The task is monumental. The work is rewarding. YOU could be the instrument in the hand of God to save people from eternal doom. Don’t be afraid to tell it. God will be with you. Time is running out.
Tell the story to everyone. Tell it often. Tell it, preach it, or pass out a Gospel tract. Leave a tract at the grocery store.
Give one to the mailman, police officer, or auto mechanic.
“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword….” (Hebrews 4:12).
I am going to Heaven for sure because someone I’ve never met left a Gospel tract in a grocery store where
I worked. I got saved. My children got saved, and my grandchildren are getting saved. All because someone took the time and had the courage to leave a Gospel tract behind. Get involved. The GREAT I AM needs you! You too can be used! Thank God.
No matter your history God can use you in His work. Fact is He needs you in His work. The great task God is recruiting for in this age is “soul-winning.” Preaching or telling or sharing the Gospel with every creature on earth (Mark 16:15). The Gospel is the death, burial, and
a
and residence
Rodney Jones is a retired police officer and is presently
housing
life staff member at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga. Rodney is a member of Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle in Ringgold, Georgia.
More Than a Paradigm Shift
by Garrett Nudd
Acouple years ago, my middle daughter and I visited a local Starbucks. We had orders for Joy and all three girls. A vanilla-bean frappuccino, two pink drinks, and a banana nut bread.
Have you ever gone through the drive-through at Starbucks and realized that it would’ve been faster to go inside? Or maybe go to Colombia and harvest the coffee beans yourself? Inside, time flies because you are people-watching, smelling the fresh-ground coffee, and listening to the whooshing sound of the drink machine as the baristas fulfill custom orders. It’s a magical playground for your senses.
But in the drive-through line, Starbucks feels like a race between a turtle and a snail, where no one wins.
That day, the line was even slower than usual. I tried to keep my patience because my impressionable, teenage daughter was with me. Keep in mind, I rarely order anything for myself from Starbucks. I was there purely out of love for my wife and children.
After working our way closer to the window, there were only two cars in front of us—and probably two hundred behind us, but that was their problem. I had suffered in the wilderness, now it was their turn.
I watched as the driver at the window paid for and then received her order. And then she remained at the window and ordered additional food, at least that’s what it looked like. Wait, what? That meant she had to pay again AND the staff must’ve been going crazy because now she had another order below all the other orders above her. This was not an efficient use of time, and it was unbelievably annoying.
I decided I’d use the opportunity to give Campbell a lesson in preparedness and courtesy. “This is taking a long time, and there are a lot of cars behind us,” I said. “Always remember when you place your order to get it right and keep it succinct as a courtesy to those behind you.”
Campbell nodded.
Finally, they drove away.
Now, only one car remained between us and our order. I watched as they paid and just like the car in front of them, they talked with the window attendant for an unusually long time!
“Their order isn’t ready yet either?” I said.
A couple minutes passed, and the window attendant handed their order out the window. After taking her drinks, she continued to speak with the window attendant. Then she handed them her credit card—again!
“She must be adding to her order, too? What’s wrong with all these people?”
Eventually, they drove off.
As I approached the window and curtly handed the attendant my phone for the app, she said, “Oh, there’s no charge today. The person in front of you paid for your order.”
“Pardon me?”
“The person in front of you paid for your order. It’s been going for about a dozen cars now, ” she explained.
Ohhhh. Slow down, Garrett. Now that’s a paradigm shift.
“Well, I’d like to pay for the person behind me,” I said cheerfully. She gave me their total, charged it on the app, and off we went.
Quite a shift, in both my head and my heart. That’s MORE THAN.
I have no idea how long that chain of kindness continued that day, but I’m sure at some point it ended— probably the guy by himself who looked in his rearview mirror and saw a Suburban full of hungry passengers.
I’d like to think it ended with someone who really needed the extra shot of kindness.
Gò0 dNews for your Taste Buds
Classic Juicy Beef Burgers
Celebrate National Burger Day on May 28, 2025, with Classic Juicy Beef Burgers. This recipe is straightforward and focuses on making the perfect, succulent burger with minimal fuss. Ideal for grilling or pan-frying, these burgers are sure to be a hit at any gathering or barbecue.
Ingredients
• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 4 hamburger buns
• Lettuce leaves
• Tomato slices
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Patties:
• In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.
• Divide the meat into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each patty. This helps the burgers cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the center.
2. Cook the Burgers:
• Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 6-7 minutes per side for medium. If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking and close the grill lid
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 6-7 minutes per side for medium. Add cheese during the last minute if desired.
Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a skillet until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
4. Assemble the Burgers: ead your desired condiments on the bottom half of each bun. Place a lettuce leaf, then the cooked beef patty, and top with tomato slices and pickles. Finish with the top half of the bun.
or added flavor, you can season the outside of the patties with additional salt and pepper before cooking.
• To keep the burgers juicy, avoid pressing down on them while they cook.
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.
Breathing in Faith
by Ben Johnson
Good morning…
It’s time to get started. Will you take a deep breath
And start the day wholehearted?
Sit up slowly
But not leaving the bed. You need to clear your mind
Let’s start by bowing your head.
Close your eyes
And remember the scripture.
Jesus is our Lord and Savior, He is who you should picture.
Can you breathe in His word And exhale the sin?
I promise this can be A great way to begin.
Fill your lungs with life, A gift He gave you. And live with the purpose He wanted you to.
Anything is possible With His light within.
You can move mountains And be forgiven from sin.
You will want each step
To reflect His light.
To guide those souls Lost in the night.
Live through Him
And your demons will cower.
All evil knows His name And fears His power.
Let His love fill your heart And share it with stranger.
For the Savior of the world Was born in a manger.
Ben Johnson is an introspective, motivational, and confessional poet. He explores trauma, healing, emotional growth, and life appreciation. His work delves into the human condition and highlights the unique challenges of modern Christianity, fatherhood, and neurodivergence.
Musings on Fitness and Health and Why It's Important to Me
by Kirstin Reggel
Truly we are born with one body and given an unknown amount of time on this side of heaven. Yes, as Christians, we believe that we will be given a new form once Christ returns. For today, we are still on this mortal coil. At birth, we were given a set of DNA that we did not have any control over or say so in, and also given an opportunity to live. How we treat and care for this body/ vessel can contribute to how it functions in the future. Most of us want the same thing: to live with autonomy as long as we can, to take care of ourselves and love and care for those around us, and then to pass on when this body is ready. Sometimes events in our life change what we think should happen to our bodies and taking care of them now pays it forward to our future selves. Sometimes events i.e. illnesses or accidents occur that drastically shift the course of what we think we should be on. The condition of our bodies plays a large part in how we respond to those events. Recently my mind has been trying to care for my body with food as fuel, shifting my mindset from trying to eat “right.” My knowledge has changed and grown from the desire to be “thin,” “skinny,” or “visually appealing” to “strong” and “confident.” Confidence, not in an arrogant manner, but confidence that I am taking the best care of myself and giving my body what serves it best to keep it running and that it can tolerate those outside stressors that act upon it.
I am learning more about eating/fueling my body in a way that promotes muscle growth and health, bone growth and health, as well as maintaining a healthy gut which is the basis of the immune system.
Examples of quick and easy ways to do this start with making sure I am getting enough water throughout the day. I keep what feels like my “emotional support” water bottle on me at all times, filling it up at work and at the gym. Another way is to eat a colorful and balanced plate with as much whole food as possible. Lastly, if those cravings hit for something sweet, I will allow myself to have it and enjoy it…then move on from it.
The strength that we build in our 20s-30s will pay it forward to our future selves in our 40s-50s and will continue for decades later, as the Lord allows. I enjoy strength training. Yes, lifting heavy things can be empowering, functionally life-giving, and reduce the need for assistance from others for basic activities. But it's also fun! Music is a huge part of the set up of the workout environment. It can provide timing and external cues to keep up with the beat as well as provide distraction. Training is also more fun with a friend or whole community like a class setting. I can tolerate so much more when I have someone beside me. We can encourage each other to continue and finish well.
Focusing on healthy living and taking care of our bodies reminds me of the parable in Matthew 25:14-30 NIV of the master who gave talents to his servants, especially verse 23, “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!”
Kirstin Reggel is a physical therapist, avid CrossFit enthusiast, and coach who loves the Lord. She lives near Rome, Georgia, and encourages others to focus on their fitness and health, both mental and physical.
“WE love IT HERE!”
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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 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.