Gò0dNews October 2026
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goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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About Us WRITERS
Bill Silvers Charles Finney Courtney Fox Dee Lancaster Dorothy Teague Earl Brackin Hayden Lanier Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Jan Merop Jennifer Govea Maggie Possinger Matthew Bowden Rick Hughes Sharon Eldridge
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Matthew Ruckman goodnewstn@gmail.com 423-503-1410 Andrew Ruckman goodnewsmarketing1@gmail.com 423-432-3406
DESIGNER
Riley Evans art.goodnews@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER Kate Walton kate@studio-kate.com
EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR Sandra Gilmore articles.goodnews@gmail.com
PUBLISHER
Matthew and Bethany Ruckman goodnewstn@gmail.com 423-503-1410
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!
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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.
goodnewscm.com // October 2026
Contents
OCTOBER 2026
from the Pastor's Desk 06 GoodNews Seeds and Harvest: Let’s Look at You By Matthew Bowden
GoodNews for Everyone 08 The Briefest of Moments By Hayden Lanier
Money Matters 10 GoodNews The Annual Election Period for
Medicare: What You Need to Know By Rick Hughes
GoodNews for Men 12 My First Tricycle:
A Wobbly, Holy Adventure By Charles Finney
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GoodNews for Women 14 The Altar Alters
GoodNews for Athletes 28 Going Places
By Maggie Possinger
By Bill Silvers
for Pet Lovers 18 GoodNews A Lesson from My Spoiled
GoodNews Business Spotlight 30 The Next Step in the Journey
Rotten Dog By Carl Corser
for the Discouraged 20 GoodNews Re-Joys: Choosing Joy By Sharon Eldridge
Cover Story 24 GoodNews Viewing Care Through a
GoodNews for your Taste Buds 32 Sweet Potato Biscuits
GoodNews Poetry 34 Autumn
Different Lens: New Vision Eye Care & Eye Wear
By Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
for Seniors 26 GoodNews The Day My Heart Stopped
for Kids 36 AGoodNews Boy After God's Own Heart
By Earl Brackin
By Jan Merop
for Health & Fitness 38 GoodNews Tips for Shift Workers By Dorothy Teague
to Study By 40 GoodNews Then Came Amalek Part 3
34
By Dr. Rob Debelak
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en Español 44 GoodNews Las Alegrías de la Naturaleza Por Jennifer Govea
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Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
Seeds and Harvest: Let’s Look at You by Pastor Matthew Bowden
With autumn upon us, seeds and harvest are in focus. Fresh produce is readily available for meals or even for decorating. With the Lord, there are also unique seeds – you and me! Let’s take a look.
Just Look at David.
Jesus. That new, eternal life is available to all who come to Jesus. God saved you, David was a mustard seed who believed planted you in Jesus, and now your life is God. David was the youngest son in a bearing fruit for the glory of God. family of eight boys. David was ignored and given the job no one else in the John 3:16 ESV shares, “For God so loved Revelation 7:9 CSB says, “After this I family wanted, taking care of the sheep. the world, that he gave his only Son, looked, and there was a vast multitude God took this mustard seed and made a that whoever believes in him should not from every nation, tribe, people, and giant-killing king out of his life. perish but have eternal life.” language, which no one could number, standing before the throne and before the Just Look at Gideon. If God is not using you to bear fruit for Lamb. They were clothed in white robes His kingdom, know that God can take Not the guys who give out Bibles in someone who seems insignificant and with palm branches in their hands.” motel rooms. Those are “Gideons.” I am make something great out of them. God God has a way of bringing great things talking about “Gideon” from the book of specializes in taking the insignificant, out of humble beginnings. Let’s look at Judges. That Gideon was a mustard seed the unusable, and making them into a mustard seed faith. who believed God. Gideon was from the masterpiece for His glory! smallest family in the smallest tribe in the This multitude in Revelation 7:9 is nation of Israel. God took Gideon and The way to get from being messed up to produced by tiny mustard-seed faith that used him as one of the greatest military being massively used is to believe Jesus. God’s Word is true. leaders who ever lived. The way to move from being insignificant to impactful is to believe Jesus. The way If you are a child of God today, you to move from being defeated by sin to certainly had mustard seed beginnings. defeating sin is to believe Jesus. Now, Let’s Take a Look at You.
Jesus said, “Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand” (Matthew 3:2 ESV). According to the Bible: What does that mean? Jesus was saying • You were a sinner. Romans 3:10–23 to turn from your sin, and run to Him. ESV states, “None is righteous. No, not one.” Look at a little mustard seed. That seed is • You were “dead in trespasses and you. You can stay a tiny seed or you can sins” (Ephesians 2:1 ESV). deposit that seed into the good soil of • You were under a death sentence and King Jesus and grow into a mighty plant you were headed to Hell. that will produce fruit into eternity! Romans 6:23 ESV says, “For the wages This article was adapted with permission of sin is death, but the free gift of God is from Pastor Bowden’s sermon, “A Little eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Faith Will Do Ya!” from May 2023. But God, in His grace, looked beyond what you were. God’s mercy was the cross. Jesus took the punishment – you and I deserve to pay – in our place. God’s grace was the resurrection of King 6
Rev. Matthew Bowden serves as pastor of Mt. Alto Baptist Church of Rome, Georgia. He is married with two children and is a twotime graduate of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Briefest of Moments by Hayden Lanier
On a cool fall Saturday morning, I walk out onto my back porch, recline in my favorite rocking chair, and open my Bible. The text is Romans 8. I had left off my reading in the middle of the chapter, so I pick up with verse 18. I read the following words from the pen of the Apostle Paul: “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed in us” (ESV). Though I have read and heard this verse before, it hits me differently today. I pause after reading these words, look over at the wind softly shaking the leaves from the trees, and reflect on what this truth means. No one is a stranger to suffering. We have all felt the sting of betrayal, the pain of loss, the abandon of loneliness, the shadow of shame, and the sourness of sin. That’s why these words are such a comfort. As I think about the suffering I have endured and the sufferings those I know and love are walking through right now, it is a joy to know and believe that they are not even worth comparing with the future that awaits those in Christ. This reminded me of a similar verse, also written by Paul, in 2 Corinthians 4. He recorded this: “For this light momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison” (v. 17 ESV). Think about this: according to God’s Word, in light of eternity, all of our afflictions are considered light and momentary. This means they are not heavy, not burdensome, and that they last only for a short time. It certainly doesn’t feel that way to us, however, and I do not mean to downplay your suffering. There is no doubt that the hurt you have felt throughout your life is real. Even Jesus wept and felt our agony when He walked this earth. What I believe these verses encourage us to do, however, is to keep an eternal perspective. We ought to remind ourselves of the joy of eternity, the hope of glory, and the fact that it does not even come close to comparing with our sufferings and afflictions. In 2 Corinthians 4, Paul continued by saying, “as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For … the things that are unseen are eternal” (ESV). When we are in the midst of despair, when the trial is overwhelming, and when we don’t know how to even take another single step, it is good to be reminded that we do not have to. We can simply cast our gaze to Heaven, where our risen Christ sits as Savior and King. He has secured our salvation and made a way for us to live with Him in glory forever. We cannot comprehend the magnificence of the glory we will one day walk in with Him, but until that day, we can trust in His Word. We trust and believe that in light of that glory, our sufferings are not comparable, they are light, and they last only for the briefest of moments. See www.setyourmindabove.com for more from Hayden Lanier. 8
Hayden Lanier is a follower of Jesus who is passionate about sharing the good news of the gospel through writing. He graduated from Shorter University in 2025 and now works as an elementary school teacher. To read more of Hayden’s writing, you can go to setyourmindabove.com.
goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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The Annual Election Period for Medicare: What You Need to Know with
Money Matters Rick Hughes Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes founded Hughes Retirement Group in 2007. His main interest is helping his clients in reducing their taxes.
Each year, from October 15 to December 7, Medicare beneficiaries across the United States enter a crucial window known as the Annual Election Period (AEP). This seven-week period is more than just a bureaucratic formalityit's a vital opportunity for individuals to reassess their healthcare coverage, make informed decisions, and ensure their plan aligns with their evolving medical needs and financial situation. You will receive your ANOCS (Annual Notice of Changes) if you are presently on an Advantage or Rx plan. Please make sure you review them to see if any changes need to occur during the AEP. What is the Annual Election Period? The Annual Election Period allows Medicare beneficiaries to make changes to their coverage for the upcoming year. These changes take effect on January 1 of the following year. During AEP, individuals can: • Switch from Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) to a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan • Move from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare • Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another • Enroll in, switch, or drop a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan This flexibility is essential because Medicare plans can change annually. Premiums may rise, coverage may shift, and provider networks may expand or contract. Reviewing your plan during AEP ensures you're not caught off guard by unexpected changes in January. Why Reviewing Your Plan Matters • Many beneficiaries assume that if
their plan worked well this year, it will continue to do so next year. Unfortunately, that's not always the case. Insurance companies routinely update their plans, which can affect: • Monthly premiums • Deductibles and copayments • Drug formularies (the list of covered medications) • Provider networks (which doctors and hospitals are covered) Failing to review your plan could mean paying more out-of-pocket, losing access to preferred providers, or discovering that a critical medication is no longer covered. How to Make Smart Choices During AEP
Navigating Medicare options can feel overwhelming, but a few key steps can simplify the process: 1. Assess Your Current Health Needs Consider any new diagnoses, ongoing treatments, or anticipated procedures. Your coverage should reflect your current and future medical needs. 2. Review Your Prescription Medications Use Medicare's Plan Finder tool to compare Part D plans and ensure your medications are still covered affordably. 3. Check Provider Networks If you're considering a Medicare Advantage plan, confirm that your doctors and specialists are in-network. 4. Compare Costs Look beyond premiums. Evaluate deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums to get a full picture of your potential expenses. 5. Seek Help If Needed Many of you are getting lots of mailings or phone calls. This can be overwhelming and can also put you in a bad situation. Put yourself at ease and deal
with a broker who you can sit down with, and they can explain all of the changes for the upcoming year. Call or text the Medicare Coach at Hughes Retirement group 423-664-4203 or visit the website, www.hughesretirementgroup.com, to set an appointment. Our staff is ready to assist you. We have been in the business for over 20 years, and you can trust us that we will do what is right for you. What Happens If You Miss AEP? If you don't make changes during AEP, your current plan will typically renew automatically. However, you may be stuck with a plan that no longer meets your needs. Outside of AEP, changes are only allowed during Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) triggered by specific life events, such as: • Moving to a new coverage area • Losing other health insurance • Qualifying for a 5-star Medicare Advantage or Part D plan Final Thoughts The Annual Election Period is your once-a-year opportunity to take control of your Medicare coverage. Whether you're satisfied with your current plan or considering a switch, it's worth taking the time to review your options. By being proactive during AEP, you can avoid costly surprises and ensure your coverage supports your health and financial wellbeing in the year ahead.
(423) 664-4203 HughesRetirementGroup.com
Insurance products are offered through the insurance business Hughes Retirement Group. Hughes Retirement Group is also an Investment Advisory practice that offers products and services through Impact Partnership Wealth, LLC (IPW), a Registered Investment Adviser. IPW does not offer insurance products. The insurance products offered by Hughes Retirement Group are not subject to Investment Advisor requirements. Any and all other services related to Medicare are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Impact Partnership Wealth, (“IPW”) LLC. Hughes Retirement Group is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. Neither the firm nor its agents or representatives may give tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult with a qualified professional for guidance before making any purchasing decisions.
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goodnewscm.com // October 2026
SafeHaven RANCH A Home Where Kids Can Grow And Excel In A Christian Environment.
Jude 1:22
There’s a dusty dirt road off in some fields that looks like
have no place to call home. Safe Haven Ranch is dedicated
any other road of its kind in the South. But, it’s truly not
to demonstrating Christ's love by creating a nurturing
the same. It’s not the length or the condition or the age of
environment for children who have known great
this road that makes the difference, it’s the destination.
suffering. Our mission is to address both the physical and
This road leads to hope. There’s hope along that dusty dirt
spiritual needs of these children, providing them with the
road because Safe Haven Ranch for Boys is waiting at the
tools to overcome emotional and mental health challenges
end of it.
while sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Jason Slaughter of Community Share Ministries
“We aim to inspire and instill hope in the children
describes the road building, “We are building roads to
we serve, empowering them to grow and heal despite
make room for what God’s got coming. We don’t know
their difficult circumstances. Our organization believes
just who or just when but we know the children are
in building a strong sense of community and providing a
coming. We know God’s got something He’s working on
safe haven for children in need. Through our efforts, we
and we’re making room for it.”
strive to make a positive change in the lives of the children
The Safe Haven Boys Ranch is nestled in the
and families we serve, embodying the love of Christ in all
former Corn family farm. The Corn family never raised
that we do.”
children there. They raised animals and vegetables
Making a Difference
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
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.
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Gò0dNews for Men
My First Tricycle: A Wobbly, Holy Adventure by Charles Finney
(Inspired by 1 John 4:17-19, with humor and handlebar streamers) Let me take you back to a sacred time in my life—before taxes, before heartbreak, before I realized that “sugar-free” wasn’t a sign of spiritual maturity. Yes, I’m talking about the era of my first tricycle. It was red. It had plastic streamers, a bell that made no actual bell-like sound, and three wheels of raw, glorious freedom. It was, as far as I was concerned, my chariot of fire—except powered by juice boxes and a deeply irrational sense of selfconfidence. And so it was, one bright Saturday morning, I mounted this holy vehicle with all the boldness that 1 John 4:17 KJV describes: “Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment...” Now, judgment in this context probably meant standing before the throne of God, but for me, it meant barreling down the driveway with Dad shouting, “USE THE BRAKES!”—a thing I had chosen to ignore in favor of more spiritually reckless behavior. Because, you know, Jesus didn’t ride the brakes, so why should I? I wobbled to the left. I wobbled to the right. At one point, I nearly took out the mailbox—thankfully, my guardian angel was clearly working overtime. But I had boldness. I had love. And most importantly, I had no fear. Why? Because of verse 18: “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment.” And let me tell you, the only torment I knew was the feeling of my helmet squeezing my face like a sanctified melon. But I pressed on, fueled by love... and probably half a pack of M&M’s. You see, when you’re a kid with a tricycle and a heart full of hope, you believe in invincibility. You believe your dad’s cheering means you’re winning the Tour de France. And you definitely believe that if you pedal fast enough, you’ll become airborne. (Spoiler: I did not become airborne. I hit a shrub.) But even lying in that bush, I realized something: I wasn’t afraid. Not of the ride, not of falling, not even of Dad making me come inside and “practice stopping.” Because perfect love had cast out fear. Well, that, and the fact that Dad had promised ice cream if I didn’t cry. 12
And that brings us to the most profound part: “We love him, because He first loved us.” (v. 19) Just like I loved my dad not because he let me crash into shrubbery, but because he was there—with band-aids, encouragement, and ice cream. I didn’t earn his love by tricycling well. In fact, I mostly proved that steering is hard and gravity is undefeated. But he loved me first. And that’s the beauty of it. God’s love is like that first tricycle: slightly dangerous, unexpectedly thrilling, and completely supported by a Father who’s not mad when you wipe out—He’s just proud you tried. So whether you’re pedaling boldly toward your destiny or sideways into a hydrangea bush, remember: you are loved. Not because you ride perfectly, but because Love Himself got you the tricycle, cheered you on, and already forgave the shrub. Amen, and pass the M&M’s.
Minister, Magazine and Newspaper Columnist, Songwriter, Published Author, Retiree: TVA, Ebasco, Raytheon, PRC Engr, City of Chattanooga writings of Love and Jesus in a Southern Country Style.
goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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Gò0dNews for Women
The Altar Alters by Maggie Possinger
Although I grew up in Western Maryland, a beautiful area with abundant hills and wooded fields, I’ve never partaken in a common hobby— one that’s also quite popular here in Tennessee: hunting. I don’t find hunting gruesome in the slightest; in fact, I enjoy some deer jerky from time to time. In Genesis 1:26, God gave humans dominion over animals. So, yes, I understand animals die so we can have food. While I enjoy the meat that hunting provides, the thought of ME having to kill an animal seems very unpleasant. Most of the time, I struggle to kill spiders or other bugs, so I’m not sure I would even be good at hunting. I was recently reminded of how thankful I am that I do not have to purposefully kill any animals. Roadkill, on the other hand, is inevitable (and I’m sure no one would want to hear those stories). In my church small group, we talked about sacrificing animals. We discussed hypotheticals and what the world would be like if Christians still had to sacrifice animals. Of course, the first thing I think of when I hear the words “animal sacrifice” is the book of Leviticus. For the Israelites, sacrificing an animal was more than just taking its life. They watched the blood drain from its body because it was a tangible symbol of sin and its results. A popular nonprofit organization, The Bible Project, explains it this way: “sin vandalizes God’s world with death and pain,” and “God has every right to make people face the just consequences.” However, God loves us and is not seeking to kill us, so in the Old Testament days, an animal’s life was symbolically offered as a ransom payment. The practice of sacrificing animals reminded the Israelites that sin was serious, and the consequences should be treated as such. 14
But the God we serve is a just and gracious God who ultimately wanted a covenant relationship with the Israelites. God’s love was most fully displayed in Jesus, His birth, His death, and His resurrection. My friends and I reflected on how thankful we were to live in a time where WE could have personal relationships with Jesus Christ. It’s hard to imagine not being able to talk directly to God or going to a priest so they could read you the Scriptures. Sacrificing animals served a purpose in the Old Testament. As a child, I definitely did not grasp the significance of it. Sacrificial laws and customs seemed like a part of the Bible that I glazed over because it wasn’t relevant to the 21st century. In fact, growing up, I always wondered why a book like Leviticus was included in the Bible. It’s moments and conversations like these when I’m so grateful for this (slightly tedious) but beautiful book. It tells the story of God’s enduring love to His people and points us back to Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. While I’m thankful that I do not have to watch the life physically drain out of animals, I see how blessed I am to live in today’s world—a place where I can talk to God any time and freely read His words. I’ll leave the hunting to those who truly enjoy it. “God showed how much He loved us by sending His one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through Him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins” (1 John 4:9-10 NIV). Maggie Possinger graduated from Lee University in 2024 with a degree in Digital Media Studies, specializing in journalism. She currently serves as the Events and Programming Coordinator for the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce. In her free time, she can be found walking around downtown Cleveland, attending baseball games, and spending time with her friends and family.
goodnewscm.com // October 2026 2026 goodnewscm.com // September
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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
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
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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
goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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
Lutheran Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 3000 Garden Lakes Blvd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7257
Methodist
Beech Creek Methodist 2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165 706-506-8980 GracePoint Rome 43 Chateau Court Rome, Ga 30161 Holsey Sinai CME Church 1233 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7265 Lindsay Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161 Metropolitan UMC 700 Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8660 Mt Pleasant Church 4782 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4350 New Bethel Methodist Church Reeceburg Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9700 Oostanaula UMC 74 Battey Farm Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0084 Rome First UMC 202 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8590 Rush Chapel UMC 1225 Rush Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-7986 Scott Chapel UMC 3 Chambers St NE Rome, Ga 30161 Second Avenue UMC 801 E Second Ave SW Rome, GA 30161 Silver Creek UMC 36 Reeceburg Rd SE Silver Creek, GA 30173 706-234-2518 Trinity By The River, Global Methodist 606 Turner McCall Blvd SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0033 Wesley Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161
West Rome UMC 1003 Shorter Ave PO Box 2247 Rome, GA 30164 706-234-6214
Messianic
Congregation Hallelu HaShem 1869 Floyd Springs Rd NE, Armuchee, GA 3105 706-936-6711
Nazarene
Rome First Church of the Nazarene 20 Glenda Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-5023
Non-Denominational
Access Church 1905 Calhoun Rd Rome, Ga 30161 705-584-7497 Christian Church at Rome 2417 Shorter Ave Rome, GA 30165 706-235-0501 Glorious New Jerusalem Church 537 W 12th St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2045 Glory Tabernacle Church 300 Watson St Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-0888 Gospel Harvester Church 1246 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-9858 Greater Refuge Ministries 1604 North Broad St Rome, GA 30161 706-622-2448 Legacy Church 524 Avenue A SW Rome, GA 30165 LIFE Church of Rome 19 John Davenport Drive Rome GA 30165 706-728-3166 Lighthouse Church of Rome Lighthouse Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0864 New and Living Way Bible Church 59 Dykes Creek Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-233-9200 Northside Church 75 N. Floyd Park Rd. Rome, Ga 30165 706-233-9896 Rally Up International Ministries 2460 Shorter Avenue Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561 Shannon Community Church 600 First Street Shannon, GA 30172 706-491-7112 Solid Holy Rock Deliverance Tabernacle 700 Kingston Ave
Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8948 The Church at Rome 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-346-2733 Trinity United Christian Church 6 Deer Run Trail Rome, Ga 30165 706-204-8270 We The Church 1818 Kingston Hwy Rome, Ga 30161 Wilderness Church Rome 2730 Martha Berry Highway NE Rome, Ga 30165 706-237-6395 Words of Faith Tabernacle 3134 Rockmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-314-9158
Orthodox
All Saints Church 615 Cleveland Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-378-4474
Pentecostal
Cannon Temple Holiness Church 308 Porter St Rome, Ga 20161 706-233-9001 Christ Temple Holiness Church 1321 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3787 Victory Temple Of Joy 118 Williamson St. Rome, Ga 30165 706-766-3865
Presbyterian
First Presbyterian Church EPC 101 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6033 Seven Hills Fellowship 530 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161 706-530-1630 Silver Creek Presbyterian Church 6 Old Rockmart Road Silver Creek, Ga 30173 706-234-6862 Westminster Presbyterian Church 1941 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561
Seventh-Day Adventist
Rome Bethany Seventh-Day Adventist Church 307 E 14th St SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0067 Seventh-Day Adventist Church 2526 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4117
Cave Spring Church Directory Cave Spring Church of God
Live Oak Baptist Church
Rehoboth Missionary Baptist
Grace Fellowship Baptist Church
The Empty Tomb
First Baptist Church
19 Mill Street Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8348
6635 Blacks Bluff Rd SW Cave Spring Ga 30124 706-346-9786
5506 GA-100 Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8566
5630 Fosters Mill Rd SW Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-844-7723
6 Rehoboth Rd SW Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3313 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
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Gò0dNews for Pet Lovers
A Lesson from My Spoiled Rotten Dog by Dee Lancaster
It was a lazy afternoon when I hopped on the bed with my 37 lb black Standard Poodle, Mayflower. I kissed her soft, poofy head, and said that she was such a good girl. She took in every word as I gushed them out: “You’re Mommy’s baby. I love you.” I smiled as I recalled her shenanigans that morning. She chewed up some tissues that had been on a side table. Recently, I came home to find my favorite pen gnawed to bits. There was an event not long ago when she made a feast of throat lozenges with xylitol and a vet trip! The truth is, she’s not really a good girl. She’s a spoiled, rotten mess. She bullies her big brother, Remi—an 80 lb Standard who could easily put her in her place. She steals food, barks a lot, begs relentlessly, is headstrong, and doesn’t always do what she is told. It’s funny how quickly we forget her imperfections and begin showering her with words she so loves to hear: “You’re such a good girl. You’re my baby!” My thoughts began to wonder if that’s how God sees me. I recalled a Bible verse that talks about how God forgives us when we confess our sins to Him. Not only does He forgive, but He makes us new—righteous even.
Wow. He chooses to forget my sins. God can forget? No—it is His choice. I’ve always thought of forgetfulness as a weakness, but maybe sometimes it’s a strength. God can do anything He wants to do. He loves us so much that when we repent of our wrongdoings—over and over again—He chooses not to remember them. That kind of love blows me away. I think about Mayflower. In all of her spoiled, rotten ways, I love her, forgive her quickly, and call her “good girl.” I call her mine.
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9 NIV).
So maybe righteousness isn’t about being perfect. Maybe it’s about belonging to God—being fully known, forgiven, and loved by Him—and finally learning to relinquish guilt and self-condemnation. Maybe it’s about believing Him when He calls me forgiven, when He calls me His own.
How He can forgive our sins and call us righteous has me perplexed.
If I can have this kind of love toward Mayflower, how much MORE does my heavenly Father love me?
I mean, I can accept the title of forgiven, but I have a hard time calling myself righteous. How is that even possible? I mess up every day. I make mistakes. I’m not always loving or careful with my words. I have a self-centered nature, and I’m stubborn just like my rotten Mayflower!
He invites me to stop arguing with His grace and simply receive it—to rest in being loved, forgiven, and claimed as His own. Not because I’ve earned it, but because His mercy is that great.
My God, my heavenly Father quickly forgives me, wraps His loving arms around me, and calls me righteous. How does the Lord of all creation forget so quickly what a mess I am? This brings to mind Isaiah 43:25 NKJV: “I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions, for My own sake, and remembers your sins no more.” 18
Today, I’m choosing to believe Him, be grateful, and rest in a grace that is so big it wraps its arms around me and says: “I love you. You are mine.” Even on my most spoiled, rotten days. Kindermusik with Dee, an early childhood music and movement program, has been Dee Lancaster’s passion for 24 years. She enjoys life in Tennessee with her family and very spoiled dogs.
goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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19
Gò0dNews for the Discouraged
Re-Joys: Choosing Joy by Sharon Eldridge
“The joy of the Lord is my strength! (Nehemiah 8:10 NKJV). “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord all ye people” (Psalm 100:1 KJV). “Count it all joy! (James 1:2 KJV). “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace. . . “ (Galatians 5:22 KJV). Everything you read about joy says that it is a choice. It’s not the same as your mood. It’s not the same as being constantly happy. I am struggling to get my thoughts together this morning. My head and body ache despite the ibuprofen and coffee. The wind is bringing in cold, damp air and more rain from the north. The highs for today and tomorrow will be in the 40s, and my body is not happy. I’m sure my plants aren’t happy either. I’m not in a very joyful mood, am I? Thankfully, our source of joy is more dependable than our bodies, the weather, or our circumstances. I was taught as a child that JOY is Jesus-Others-You. The Bible tells us that the devil is a joy thief. What is joy and how do we choose it? Rick Warren gives us this definition of joy: “Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be alright, and the determined choice to praise God in every situation.” My Nanny and Mom both had the middle name, 20
Joy. Quite a bit of my joy felt missing after they both went to heaven and then Dad followed so closely behind Mom. A little over a year later, I prayed for God to take my grief and sorrow and to give me back my joy. I couldn’t feel it. I wanted to choose it. But I didn’t know how. God had to teach me to fully trust in Him. He showed me that I don’t need to trust in anyone else, including myself, to take care of my family’s needs. He’s showing me how to RE-JOYS. “Rejoice in the Lord always! Again, I say rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4 KJV). “This is the day the Lord has made! Rejoice and be glad in it!” (Psalm 118:24 KJV). When we rejoice, we celebrate. We spread joy! We look for the positive things in life, and we praise God for them. If something goes wrong, as it always will in life, look for God in the middle of it. That’s why trials and troubles bring us an opportunity for joy. When everything falls apart beyond what we can fix in our own capabilities, take the opportunity to praise God in advance for how He will work it out when we put our trust, our hope in Him. We will experience great joy as a result. Second Peter 1:16-17 NLT says, “For we were not making up clever stories when we told you about the powerful coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. We goodnewscm.com // October 2026
saw his majestic splendor with our own eyes when he received honor and glory from God the Father. The voice from the majestic glory of God said to him, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy.” It’s clear, beloved: Christ is our source for love, peace, wisdom, grace, and joy. Peter tells us how to grow our faith and encourages us to be more knowledgeable about Jesus. In John 15, Jesus says that He is the vine, God is the gardener and that we are the branches. Each branch is carefully cared for by God, our Gardener. He cuts away the dead leaves of sin and will sometimes even prune little blossoms away in certain areas of our lives to allow other blossoms to bloom with more fullness. If we surrender to His care, He will help us grow into a beautiful, mature branch that will bear fruit, which contains what? Seeds! Seeds of love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, kindness and self-control. We must stay connected to our Vine in order to receive life-sustaining water. His roots stretch much deeper than any little superficial roots we could try to use to survive. His roots reach into Living Water even during drought. They
stabilize us even in the worst of storms. They withstand any temperature from the scorching heat of trials to the freezing cold of mourning and loneliness. Jesus promises that if we obey His commandments that we will stay connected to Him and will overflow with joy. His commandment is to love each other as He loves us. It sounds so simple, but we still struggle to follow it. And we can’t love each other like Jesus did unless we are knowledgeable about Jesus. We have to know Him, be entwined in Him, and grow in His love. We must take the opportunity to trust Him with our growth. We have the best Gardener watching over us. Although Nanny and Mom legally carried Joy as their middle names, we can spiritually carry this fruit of the Spirit as near to our hearts as we carry our own names. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if someone could see the joy in us and think: “Her middle name must be Joy!”
Sharon Eldridge is a newly published writer, excited to see where the Lord leads as she develops a new blog.
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Viewing Care Through a Different Lens New Vision Eyecare & Eyewear
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hat does it mean to see eye care through a different lens? At New Vision Eyecare + Eyewear in Rome, GA, you’ll be welcomed with personalized care. Dr. Kit Stockton and her team believe that exceptional vision care begins with listening, building relationships, and providing personalized attention. From comprehensive eye exams to diagnosing and managing complex eye conditions, this team combines clinical excellence with hometown hospitality, creating an experience where patients feel known, valued, and cared for. This is health care where you will be genuinely heard and truly seen. Dr. Stockton explains, “I’m a native Georgian and proud to call Rome my home for the past 11 years. Caring for people’s vision isn’t simply my profession; it’s a privilege I value deeply. At the heart of my practice is a simple philosophy: exceptional eye care should feel both refined and welcoming.” Inspired Vision: The Kind Leading the Blind Dr. Kit Stockton's passion for eye care began long before she earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from University of Alabama at Birmingham. After receiving her first pair of glasses as a child, her journey in the healthcare profession began with a fascination with the instruments. “Those instruments sparked my curiosity toward a career in healthcare,” she explains.
Later, the family dog lost his sight after an accident. ”My heart went out to Max. With our help, he adapted and was able to lead a happy and healthy life.” This experience became pivotal in focusing Dr. Stockton’s profession on vision care, protecting one of life's greatest gifts and helping those who have vision challenges and setbacks. A Georgia native, Dr. Stockton earned her undergraduate degree from Samford University before completing her Doctor of Optometry degree at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She went on to complete a residency in Geriatrics and Low Vision at the Birmingham VA Rehabilitation and Low Vision Center. “This is the season when my passion for caring for patients with complex visual needs developed,” Dr. Stockton shares. “Comfortable vision is not a luxury; it’s foundational to quality of life. This experience drove that home for me. And now, it shapes our approach to vision care on a daily basis.” Providing Clear Vision New Vision Eyecare + Eyewear offers comprehensive eye care for patients at every stage of life. Services include annual comprehensive eye exams, contact lens exams and fittings, medical eye care for conditions such as glaucoma, dry eye, macular degeneration, and eye infections, and personalized treatment plans designed around each patient's individual needs. The practice also features a carefully curated optical boutique with high quality lenses and large volume of hand-selected
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goodnewscm.com // October 2026
frames, allowing patients to enjoy both exceptional vision and eyewear that complements their lifestyle. Throughout every visit, the goal remains the same: helping patients see clearly while making the experience comfortable, educational, and personal. Focused on Families One of the things that makes New Vision Eyecare + Eyewear unique is the commitment to caring for entire families. The practice welcomes children beginning at age five and continues caring for patients through every season of life, including those with more complex vision needs as they age. For busy families, having one trusted practice for children, parents, and grandparents provides both convenience and continuity of care. Patients appreciate seeing familiar faces who take time to know them—not simply as appointments on a schedule, but as neighbors and friends.
Lenses That Work for Your Life Choosing new glasses should be exciting, not overwhelming. Rather than filling the office with countless mass-produced options, New Vision Eyecare + Eyewear carefully hand-selects frame collections known for quality, comfort, and style. The experienced team works alongside each patient to find frames that not only fit their face but also complement their personality, lifestyle, and daily activities. The result is eye wear that looks great, feels comfortable, and helps patients see their best every day. Looking Forward Dr. Stockton and the entire team are grateful for the trust so many families have placed in New Vision Eyecare + Eyewear. Every visit, every referral, and every relationship has helped make this year especially meaningful. With strong roots in the Rome community and a continued commitment to personalized, patient-centered care, the future looks bright. The team looks forward to welcoming new patients while continuing to serve the many families who have become part of the New Vision circle. When a practice is built on relationships, clear vision is only the beginning!
Contact: 706.232.6464
newvisionrome.com 25
Gò0dNews for Seniors
The Day My Heart Stopped by Earl Brackin Fall days are usually when the air is brisk and there is the expectation of excitement. This fall day was like that. I had just helped lead worship for the teachers at Christian Heritage School. I was sitting at a red light when everything changed. My heart stopped, literally, and my car kept going. The driver in front of me got out to see what was the matter and found me unconscious, slumped over the steering wheel.
At every step of the way, it was as if God had placed helpers in my path.
By God’s grace, she was a nurse and knew CPR. My car engine was still running, and my doors were locked. An off-duty fireman having breakfast at the restaurant nearby. He saw the commotion and ran over. He happened to have a tool to break my window.
For over a year, I asked God to explain to me the significance of what happened. I’m a songwriter, so many of my friends would say things like, “God just has more songs for you to write.” I hoped so, but God doesn’t need another song to accomplish His purposes. I felt that there was something else to this story.
Time was critical. Could the nurse restart my heart? If I lived, would I have brain damage due to the loss of oxygen? The paramedics came. They were able to re-establish a pulse, though a weak one. God intervened again. There is a new unit that automatically performs CPR while a patient is transported to the hospital. At the time, there was only one in Whitfield County. It was in the ambulance that picked me up. Two cars behind me was the Head Master from Christian Heritage. He called my wife. 26
I was unconscious for four days. Tests showed there were no blockages and that my heart was strong. The medical staff gave me excellent care! Then, on the fifth day… I woke up. I was weak, had a sore throat from the breathing tube but no long term effects. Two days later, I was home.
When I finally got back to work, I would run into people in town that I didn’t know. They would say, “Are you Earl Brackin?” When I replied yes, they would say, “I’ve been praying for you.” This happened every day for about two months. I was completely amazed how my situation had been the prayer offerings of so many people. One year later, I was leading worship for the teachers at Christian Heritage
School. As I was getting ready, the Lord gave me an insight into my event. Genesis tells us that God spoke the world into existence. He did it from nothing. He knows the stars by name. Not a single sparrow falls from the sky that He doesn’t know about. It would have been easy for God to have healed me instantly as I lay there in the car that day. But God loves to use people! One writer I read says that God has three desires: 1. He desires to reveal Himself to His people. 2. He moves His people onto His agenda. And 3. He ministers to His people through His people. At every step of my heart event, there was someone who played a part in my miracle. Of the people who have had what happened to me, only 11% survive, and of those, most suffer brain damage. So the takeaway is: how is God using you to minister in His kingdom? He has equipped you by His Spirit and commissioned you by His Son. Go do His work. Earl is a musician living in Calhoun, GA. He has been married to his college sweetheart for almost 46 years.
goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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Gò0dNews for Athletes
and a middle-distance run. She also competes in the 100 and 400 meters, as well as the discus and the pole vault. Flo trains twelve months a year, six days a week, combining track and field workouts with weightlifting. She takes Sundays off. Flo is an amazing lady — an inspiration to us all. Later at the Kentucky Senior Game, I competed against athletes from 13 states and placed first in the 1500m, 800m, 400m, and 200m. I even won the 50m by just 0.02 seconds! I give God the glory for granting me the endurance to run five races in only two and a half hours.
Going Places by Bill Silvers
It’s been a few months since July 2026. July was significant for me this year because it held my 88th birthday. At this age, most people are slowing down. I’m speeding up, and traveling places because of my calling, which is running. I never considered myself a runner. I’ll be honest: I don’t even like to walk. But at 81, God placed something unexpected on my heart. He called me to run. It didn’t make much sense then, and some days it still doesn’t. I’ve learned that when God calls, the best response isn’t understanding but obedience. What started with 5K races has turned into something far greater than I ever imagined. First, I thank God for the opportunity to train and compete with the Atlanta Masters Track Team and others who have supported me along the way. Soon after, the Lord led me to Memphis, TN, to compete in the 39th National Veterans Golden Age Games. By God’s grace, I won gold medals in the 200-, 400-, and 800-meter races and a silver medal in the 1,500-meter race. 28
The event brought together over 1,000 veteran athletes from. I thank God for the opportunity to meet, greet, and compete with fellow veterans. Each one has his or her own story of service, sacrifice, and resilience. Before each race, I pray. I offer prayers not to win, but that every athlete would be able to compete to the best of their ability, free from pain or injury, and also I pray for myself not to trip or fall again as I have in the past.
This all began where I call home: Murray County, GA. I’m actively involved at Chatsworth First Methodist Church, serving on the Administration Committee and as the Evangelism Chairperson. I also coordinate and participate in all the mission trips organized by the church. I run five to six days per week at the Veterans Memorial track and the North Murray High School tracks in Chatsworth. The medals I brought home belong truly to God, not to me. I could not have won them without His blessing. The glory goes to God. As I recall the places I have gone by obeying His call, it brings me closer to Him. That’s the place I want to go most of all!
In June 2025, I competed in my first USA Track and Field Masters Championship in Huntsville, AL. I finished fourth in the nation in the 400 meter and fifth in the 200 meter. I was also blessed to run with an amazing team in the relays, where we brought home the gold in the 4x100m, 4x400m, and 4x800m. I was blessed to have met and talked with Flo Meiler at the USA Track and Field National Championship in Huntsville, AL. Flo is 91 years old and holds five world records in track and field. She competes in the pentathlon, which consists of five events: sprint hurdles, long jump, shot put, high jump,
Bill Silvers from Ellijay, Georgia, began running competitively at age 81. He runs to the glory of God!
goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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Gò0dNews Business Spotlight
The Next Step in the Journey
After 11 years in the electrical trade, a longtime goal becomes Journey Electric For Tanner Regennitter, launching Journey Electric wasn’t the beginning of a career in electrical work. It was the culmination of 11 years of experience, years of training and a longtime goal of building an electrical company of his own.
me,” Tanner says. “It took a lot of time and training to get to that point. Electrical work has always been my passion, so when I finally obtained my license, launching Journey Electric felt like the natural next step.”
Electrical work has always been Tanner’s passion. Over more than a decade in the trade, he gained the experience and knowledge that comes from working in an industry where doing things the right way matters. But along the way, he also discovered something else: the part of the job he enjoyed most was working directly with the people he was helping.
The new company brought together two important parts of Tanner’s career: his experience in the electrical trade and the customer-focused approach he had developed while running Journey Home Services.
Three years ago, that realization helped lead to the creation of Journey Home Services. Finding a Different Kind of Fulfillment
Journey Home Services gave Tanner an opportunity to work directly with homeowners on repairs, improvements and projects around their homes. The work was personal. Instead of simply completing a task and moving on, Tanner was able to meet the people he was working for, understand what they needed and see firsthand the difference the finished project made for them. “I found that work was a lot more fulfilling when I was directly helping customers in their home or business,” Tanner says. “You get to build a relationship with people. You’re not just completing a job—you’re solving a problem for someone.” Journey Home Services continued to grow, but Tanner never lost sight of the trade that had started his career. Electrical work was still where his passion was. There was just one major milestone left to reach. Years in the Making
Becoming a licensed electrical contractor doesn’t happen overnight. It takes years of hands-on experience, training and a commitment to learning the trade. For Tanner, obtaining his electrical license was something he had worked toward for a long time. After 11 years in electrical work, that goal finally became a reality. And once it did, Tanner knew exactly what he wanted to do with it. Journey Electric was born. “Getting my electrical license was a big accomplishment for 30
More Than Getting the Job Done
Journey Electric was built around a straightforward idea: provide professional electrical work without losing the personal service of a local business. That means answering the phone, communicating with customers, showing up when expected and taking the time to understand what someone actually needs. It also means being there for the jobs that may not seem like major projects but still matter to the homeowner or business owner who needs them done. A breaker that keeps tripping. An outlet that stopped working. A ceiling fan that needs to be replaced. New lighting. A dedicated circuit. An EV charger. An electrical concern that just doesn’t seem right. And sometimes, what starts as a simple service call can uncover a potentially serious electrical issue. For Tanner, helping someone solve those problems is exactly the type of work that made him want to build Journey Electric in the first place. A Company Built for the Community
Journey Electric provides residential and commercial electrical services throughout Rome and Northwest Georgia, handling everything from troubleshooting and repairs to new circuits, lighting, electrical panels, EV chargers, and other electrical upgrades. But Tanner’s vision for the company goes beyond completing electrical projects. He wants Journey Electric to become the kind of local company people know by name: • the electrician a homeowner feels comfortable calling when something isn’t working • the number a past customer gives a neighbor when they ask, “Do you know a good electrician?” goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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• And the company local businesses, property managers and real estate professionals know they can call when they need someone dependable. “I want to build relationships with our customers,” Tanner explains. “When they need electrical work, I want Journey Electric to be the first company they think of.” That philosophy is already familiar to many of the customers who have worked with Tanner through Journey Home Services. Journey Electric now gives him the opportunity to bring that same approach to the work he’s been passionate about throughout his career. The Journey Continues
The name Journey Electric is fitting. The company may be new, but getting here took more than a decade. • Eleven years in the electrical trade. • Three years building and serving customers through Journey Home Services.
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“I’ve spent a long time working toward this,” Tanner says. “I’m excited to have the opportunity to build an electrical company that combines the work I love with the part I’ve found most rewarding—taking care of customers.” For Journey Electric, the journey is just getting started.
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• Years of training and working toward an electrical license. • Countless jobs and experiences along the way. Now, Tanner is taking everything he’s learned and putting it toward the next chapter.
Call 678-373-9448 Journey Electric Residential & Commercial Electrical Services Serving Rome & Northwest Georgia 31
Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
SWEET POTATO BISCUITS October in the Smoky Mountains is pure poetry. The trees burn bright with red and gold, the air smells like woodsmoke, and the mornings arrive with mist rolling low along the ridgelines. It’s the time of year when every porch seems to hold a pumpkin, every table a story, and every kitchen a reason to bake something warm. While apples and pumpkins tend to steal the spotlight in early fall, there’s another humble hero in Appalachian kitchens this time of year: the sweet potato. Dug from the rich mountain soil and cured in the cool air, sweet potatoes used to be a staple crop for mountain families who needed something hearty, filling, and long-lasting.
Ingredients: •
2 cups all-purpose flour
•
1 tablespoon baking powder
•
½ teaspoon baking soda
And one of the best—and most beloved—ways to use them is in a batch of Sweet Potato Biscuits.
•
½ teaspoon salt
These golden, tender biscuits are a celebration of October’s flavor. With just a touch of natural sweetness and the buttery flake of a wellmade biscuit, they strike a perfect balance between rustic and refined. They’re just as welcome on a breakfast plate with sausage and eggs as they are at Sunday dinner alongside roasted chicken or ham.
•
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
•
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
•
6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
•
¾ cup mashed cooked sweet potato (about 1 medium sweet potato)
•
¼ to ⅓ cup buttermilk, as needed
•
1 tablespoon melted butter, for brushing
Tradition is to make them in a deep cast-iron skillet, letting the biscuits crowd together so they rise up tall and soft in the middle, with just a bit of crunch on the bottom. Then, brush them with melted butter the moment they come out of the oven. Can’t you just imagine eating them warm, steam rising with every bite, thinking it’s the taste of autumn itself. October in the mountains invites us to slow down, gather close, and enjoy the good gifts of the season. A pan of sweet potato biscuits does just that—simple, seasonal, and baked with love.
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Instructions: 1.
Preheat oven to 425°F. Lightly grease a castiron skillet or baking sheet.
2.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and cinnamon if using.
3.
Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4.
Stir in mashed sweet potato. Add buttermilk a little at a time, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Don’t overwork.
5.
Turn dough out onto a floured surface. Gently pat to ¾-inch thickness and cut with a biscuit cutter or glass.
6.
Place biscuits close together in skillet or on sheet. Bake 15–18 minutes, or until tops are golden brown.
7.
Brush with melted butter and serve warm. goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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Gò0dNews Poetry
AU T U M N By Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
With what a glory comes and goes the year! The buds of spring, those beautiful harbingers Of sunny skies and cloudless times, enjoy Life’s newness, and earth’s garniture spread out; And when the silver habit of the clouds Comes down upon the autumn sun, and with A sober gladness the old year takes up His bright inheritance of golden fruits, A pomp and pageant fill the splendid scene. There is a beautiful spirit breathing now Its mellow richness on the clustered trees, And, from a beaker full of richest dyes, Pouring new glory on the autumn woods, And dipping in warm light the pillared clouds. Morn on the mountain, like a summer bird, Lifts up her purple wing, and in the vales The gentle wind, a sweet and passionate wooer, Kisses the blushing leaf, and stirs up life Within the solemn woods of ash deep-crimsoned, And silver beech, and maple yellow-leaved, Where Autumn, like a faint old man, sits down By the wayside a-weary. Through the trees The golden robin moves; the purple finch, That on wild cherry and red cedar feeds, A winter bird, comes with its plaintive whistle, And pecks by the witch-hazel, whilst aloud From cottage roofs the warbling blue-bird sings; And merrily, with oft-repeated stroke, Sounds from the threshing-floor the busy flail.
He shall so hear the solemn hymn, that Death Has lifted up for all, that he shall go To his long resting-place without a tear. This poem is in the public domain.
34
"October" by William Trost Richards
O what a glory doth this world put on For him who, with a fervent heart, goes forth Under the bright and glorious sky, and looks On duties well performed, and days well spent! For him the wind, ay, and the yellow leaves Shall have a voice, and give him eloquent teachings.
goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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Gò0dNews for Kids
Chatty Critters and Friends Series: A Boy After God’s Own Heart by Jan Merop
(From I Samuel 16 & 17:1–49 NLT) Hi! My name is David. I am the son of Jesse, the youngest of eight sons. I lived at the time of King Saul, Israel’s first king. I was the keeper of my father’s sheep. I loved the sheep and protected them from lions, bears, and anything that would seek to destroy them. You might say I was a warrior against the enemy predators of the sheep. When all was peaceful, I sang to them and played on my harp. Then an incredible thing happened in the kingdom. God regretted that He had made Saul king because Saul had turned his back from following the Lord. God instructed His prophet Samuel to anoint the next king from my father’s household. At the time, I didn’t realize any of this. Sheep keep shepherds pretty busy because they like to wander and often end up hurt by falling into ditches or getting cut up from thorns. It was my job to keep those situations as few and far between as possible. I was surprised when I was summoned to him one day and saw the Prophet Samuel with him. That day my life changed dramatically, though it was only the beginning. Samuel had looked upon each of my older brothers, but God did not say yes to any of them, though they were of age and in good physical condition. But God had whispered to Samuel that He was not looking at outward appearance, but at the heart. That’s when I was summoned. God said to Samuel, “Arise, anoint him; for this is the one!” Me, a shepherd boy! Me, the youngest of my father’s sons! Me!?! That day when Samuel anointed me with oil, God’s Spirit came upon me. I was aware of His presence with me as never before. King Saul was often troubled in his spirit after God rejected him. Even so, God’s mercy extended to him when he allowed me to calm him through playing my harp. Eventually, I became king, just like the Lord declared I would. 36
Exploring Truth through God’s Word “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7, NLT) (God sees into the intents of our thoughts and motives…the heart.)
Children of the King Even though David’s brothers were handsome and strong (and God had blessed them in that way), He was still more interested in their hearts. Though David was young, he was a boy after God’s own heart. This means he honored God in his thoughts, motives, and actions. He sought to please God in every way. (And, guess what? The Bible says he also was handsome with bright eyes). The Bible says David became a man after God’s own heart. But first, he had to be a boy after God’s own heart. God wants boys and girls who want to please him. How about you? Jan has been writing her weekly column, Pause…and Consider, for 37 years, encouraging readers in their Christian walk. She and her husband Ken reside in Cleveland where they enjoy Bible study, ministry, hospitality, and the great outdoors. Three married sons, five grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren are their joy. They belong to The Church at Grace Point.
goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
Tips for Shift Workers by Courtney Fox
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ” (Colossians 3:23-24 ESV). It can be hard giving your all everyday, especially if you’re surrounded by peers who don’t embody the same values and standards. Fortunately, there are ways to remain God-centered not just at work but in all areas of your life. Implementing some of these suggestions may reignite your zeal and passion, no matter what field of labor you may work in. Create an Ideal Environment for Rest: •
Get quality linens so your bed feels like a retreat.
•
Try using a sound machine, especially if family members are home while you try and sleep.
•
Opt for hanging blackout curtains. This tip is particularly for night shifters.
•
Invest in the right mattress. Learn what support your body finds comfortable and remember to replace periodically to prevent back pain.
“So then, there remains a sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested his works as God did from his” (Hebrews 4:9-10 ESV).
Be Kind to Yourself: •
Meal prep to relieve stress over “what’s for dinner/lunch.”
•
Cluster necessary errands to limit time spent during the week doing things that aren’t necessarily fun/enjoyable.
•
Limit caffeine/junk food to increase your energy levels and prevent ‘crashing’ mid-day.
•
Keep a routine. This can create comfort in predictability and prevent stress.
•
Get plenty of rest and prioritize sleep. You’ve worked hard and your body needs time to repair and reset.
•
Don’t over schedule yourself on off days. It’s so easy to commit to parties, gatherings, and events. Alone time or days just spent with your family “piddlin’ around” are restorative and good for the soul.
The Lord wants you to stay encouraged. Use this season to truly prioritize your faith and treasure the family the Lord has blessed you with. Schedule fun activities, dates, vacations, etc. Remember to enjoy life! We learn in Proverbs 14:23 that there is profit in all labor. When viewing our vocations as more than a paycheck, we can use whatever job we have as a mission field. We can impact many people over the lifetime of a career. Use whatever gift the Lord has put in you and apply it to your day-to-day life. Perhaps you are a housekeeper in a nursing home. As you clean rooms each day, you could hum a hymn or ask folks how you can pray for them. Or you may own a towing company. Find ways to share the Gospel with customers, reminding them how much Jesus loves them. These simple, daily encounters will win people for the Kingdom. In turn, this can create a flame in you to be more thankful for all you have and to crave more of that genuine human connection. You can look forward to seeing all the fruit grow from spreading the love of Jesus — step by step and shift to shift! Courtney is a married mother to two daughters and a nurse supervisor. She has completed a half marathon, triathlon, and a full marathon. She encourages you to “LIVE WELL!”
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goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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Gò0dNews for a Fresh Start
Turning Over a New Leaf by Dorothy Teague
I didn’t think we would have a colorful fall due to the dry weather we have had, but the trees sprang a surprise on us! They seemed to have turned overnight into a beautiful vista of yellows, reds, and oranges! Admiring the leaves, I was reminded of an idiom I have heard all my life – turning over a new leaf. Way back in the sixteenth century, at the beginning of the printing industry, the pages of a book were called “leaves.” So, turning over a new leaf meant turning over to a new page. It has morphed over time into meaning changing one’s behavior, acting in a better way, or making a fresh start. This definition focuses on the person deciding to change themselves in order to live a better life. An example of this might be those New Year’s resolutions we all make (and break). While there is nothing wrong with wanting to change your ways and “live your best life,” that’s more of a choice to live a good moral life. The choices we make on our own are usually temporary. Take dieting, for instance. We do well for a while and then slip back into bad eating habits. We all make wrong choices. It’s our nature to do so. We were born into a sinful world. Romans 3:23 NIV says: “all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God.” Sin cannot be remedied by deciding to act good or being a morally upstanding citizen. Sin can only be removed from your life by true repentance and forgiveness from God. First of all, we need to know what “sin” is. James 4:17 NIV says: “If anyone knows to do good, but doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.” Repentance of sin is completely turning around and walking the other way from sin and walking toward Christ. It is your 40
heart crying out to God to forgive you of your sin, and create a clean heart within you! Repenting changes a person from the inside out, unlike turning over a new leaf and only changing the outward behavior. Acts 3:19 NIV says it like this: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” This fall when you admire God’s handiwork in transforming the leaves into an array of color, think about how He can transform your life. Reigning in bad behaviors is not a bad thing, but complete transformation comes from God when we repent, which changes not only the outside man but a renewing of your heart. King David’s plea to God in Psalm 51:10 KJV recounts how he desired God to renew him after he sinned with Bathsheba. He pleads, “Create in me a clean heart, Oh God; and renew a right spirit within me.”Sin makes us feel dirty in God’s sight, but when He forgives you, it feels so good to be clean again! “Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God” (Matthew 3:8 NLT) and you can not only say you’ve turned over a new leaf, but you have a new beginning in Christ! Happy Fall, Y’all!
Dorothy Teague is a Tennessee native, who resides in McMinn County with her husband, Lewis, on their farm. After completing 31.5 years as a teacher in the Bradley County School System, she is active in her church at Eastanallee Baptist Church where she is a member of the choir and praise team.
goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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Gò0dNews en Español
Las Alegrías de la Naturaleza por Jennifer Govea
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m
Auriculares
¿Que si me estoy preparando para un día en la playa? Claro que no, hace demasiado frío para eso, y todas las playas del lago han estado cerradas desde el Día del Trabajo. Entonces, ¿para qué es todo este equipo? ¡Octubre es un gran mes para salir y dar un paseo o correr! El hecho de que amanezca más tarde y de que el clima sea más fresco ayuda a que no tengas que levantarte tan temprano para evitar el calor y la humedad. El clima otoñal está en su punto máximo, y es grandioso ver las hermosas hojas mientras disfrutas del aire fresco y del paisaje que te rodea. Toda la naturaleza alaba al Señor, ¡incluso las hojas! En Salmos 96:12-13a, el salmista exclama: “¡Canten alegres los campos y todo lo que hay en ellos! ¡Que canten alegres todos los árboles del bosque!”. Estar al aire libre nos ayuda a recalibrar y enfocar nuestras mentes en el Señor. Dado que no puedes pensar en dos cosas a la vez, cuanto más te maravillas con la
creación de Dios, menos pensarás en las preocupaciones y problemas de este mundo. ¡Todos necesitamos un descanso de nuestros pensamientos de vez en cuando! Hagámonos eco de lo que exclamó el rey David en Salmos 145:5: “Se hablará del esplendor de tu gloria y majestad y yo meditaré en tus obras maravillosas”. Si paseo a los perros temprano por la mañana, por lo general, veo un conejo en nuestro patio. De camino a un lago cercano, veo patos, gansos canadienses y una familia de cisnes, entre otras aves, volando alrededor. Ellos me recuerdan que Dios siempre provee para nuestras necesidades. “Por eso les digo: No se preocupen por su vida, qué comerán o beberán; ni por su cuerpo, cómo se vestirán. ¿No tiene la vida más valor que la comida y el cuerpo más que la ropa? Fíjense en las aves del cielo: no siembran ni cosechan, ni almacenan en graneros; sin embargo, el Padre celestial las alimenta. ¿No valen ustedes mucho más que ellas?”. En mi camino de regreso a casa o mientras corro, quizá vea un ciervo o
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dos o tres. Observar a estas criaturas me llena el corazón de alegría y me hace agradecer al Señor por su bondad. “Oh Señor, Soberano nuestro, ¡qué imponente es tu nombre en toda la tierra!”.1 La próxima vez que salgas a recoger el correo, hagas pendientes fuera de casa o corras por un sendero, recuerda dedicar un tiempo a dejar de centrarte en las facturas que debes pagar, el tráfico o la marca personal, y enfócate en disfrutar de todo lo que Dios ha creado. Pues es cuando fijamos nuestros ojos en él que realmente tenemos la mentalidad correcta para que él nos use para su reino. Salmos 8:9 Todas las citas bíblicas están tomadas de la Nueva Versión Internacional. Jennifer Govea
1
While Jennifer and her family only lived in Dalton for six years (2013-2019), they consider it home and have cherished memories with many friends there. She, her husband, and high school senior son, David, now live in Suwanee, GA, where Jennifer enjoys running on the local trail system.
goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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*Investment advisory services and securities offered through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC. Products offered through LPL are: • NOT FDIC INSURED • NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE • NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY • NOT A BANK DEPOSIT. First Citizens National Bank and First Citizens Investment Services are not registered broker/dealers and are not affiliated with LPL Financial.
OR CALL US AT
(423) 790-7547 43
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Interested in writing for GoodNews?
We accept writers of all ages and diciplines!
Guidelines: • Article word count: between 300-500 words • Content: anything! just keep it family friendly with a Christian lens • Submission format: Google Doc or Word • Bio: Tell us about you! 50 word max • Photo: Good quality emailed as a separate file 44
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Email your article, bio, and photo files to Sandra Gilmore at articles.goodnews@gmail.com
Questions? Contact Sandra Gilmore articles.goodnews@gmail.com goodnewscm.com // October 2026
706.232.1086 · ROMEGAS.COM 101 PRIMROSE ROAD SW, ROME, GA 30161
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goodnewscm.com // October 2026
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goodnewscm.com // October 2026