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Volume 24, Issue 3

Feature Articles

JU LY 20 2 2 Columns

page 8

page 2

Faith @ Work: Steward Hayles, III

Publisher’s Note Jason Watson

Local realtor Steward Hayles shares how transitioning to Montgomery from living all over the world has been both positive, and sometimes negative, for he and his wife, AJ. He also explains why he and AJ decided to start a realty brokerage firm together and how they are serving others in this way.

page 4

Pastor's Perspective Pastor Mark Bethea, First Baptist Church, Montgomery

page 15

Moments with Kym

page 12

Kym Klass

Faith Crusade Montgomery Rescue Mission

page 23

Women Arising

by Kym Klass Operating for more than 40 years, this local ministry serves the poor, hungry, incarcerated and homeless. Spearheaded by Stephen Browder, it’s a family affar comprised of parents “Chap” (founder) and Buena Browder and sister, Michelle.

Pastor Kemi Searcy

page 24

The Intersection Bob Crittenden

page 26

Counselor’s Corner

page 16

Why the Local Church Really Matters

by Tim Challies Whether you’ve been in the church since childhood, been in and out through various seasons of life, or have never stepped foot in one, you may have asked the question, “Does being a part of a church matter?” You’ll find six reasons here why it absolutely does.

PAGE 18 Our detailed listing of local churches will help you start your search for a church home that fits your family.

Jessica Gibbe Fernandez, LMFT

page 28

Dave $ays Dave Ramsey

In Every Issue page 6

Books to Read page 8

Faith @ Work

July 2022

River Region Christians

Our Mission... We believe the Good News concerning the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is worth sharing with our friends and neighbors in the River Region. Each month we deliver this life-changing message to the centers of activity across our community in a user-friendly and relevant way to empower and equip all those seeking to grow closer to God. Join us in this mission by sharing a copy with your neighbor or by becoming an advertising partner starting next month.

From the Publisher School’s Out! Now What?

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@readjourneymagazine.com

Publisher

Jason Watson jason@readjourneymagazine.com

Research Editor Wendy McCollum

Contributing Writers Pastor Mark Bethea Tim Challies Bob Crittenden Jessica Gibbe Fernandez, LMFT Kym Klass Dave Ramsey Kemi Searcy

Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson ads@readjourneymagazine.com (334) 213-7940 ext 702

Digital Manager Scott Davis

Ad Design

Tim Welch, Welch Designs

River Region Christians is published monthly by Keep Sharing, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123. For information, call 334-213-7940. River Region Christians is copyrighted 2022 by KeepSharing. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. The opinions expressed in River Region Christians are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. River Region Christians has the right to refuse any content that is not consistent with its statement of faith.

River Region Christians

July 2022

River Region Christians

Pastor’s Perspective by Mark Bethea, First Baptist Church, Montgomery

Are You a People Builder-Upper? Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Recently I received a text message in the middle of the day that simply read, “I’m praying for you right now.” Six simple words that likely took a few seconds to tap out on a phone but was deeply meaningful to receive. The person that sent the message had no idea what myself or our family had been walking through, but knowing they were at that moment, lifting us up to the Lord impacted me greatly. You can never discount the impact a word of encouragement and prayer can mean to someone. I have found that as I have sought to encourage people around me, it helps me

to find the best in each person rather than flaws or shortcomings. Somehow, in our flesh, we become mighty good at finding the imperfections in other people. When we covenant to encourage those around us, our eyes look for the good, the positive, and the “Jesus” in others rather than deficiencies. Intentionally encouraging those around us trains our hearts and mouths Schedule your retirement review today. away from our flesh. It’s been said that we spend more time planning vacations than There is such planning for retirement. Let’s set aside some time to create positive change for you and the people you care about and understand: joy in giving encouragement, but how • How much you’ll need to retire refreshing to the • If you are on track for your retirement goals heart and soul to re• Which IRA is right for your retirement needs – Roth or traditional ceive it. For some• The importance of asset allocation and how it can help as you thing that does not work toward your long-term goals take a great deal of energy or effort, it It’s more than just money. Investing is about realizing the possibilities of your future. can have a mighty impact instantly. Sang Y Chung, AAMS®, CRPC® The local edwardjones.com Financial Advisor Member SIPC church should a 1951 Berry Chase Place Montgomery, AL 36117 place of immense 334-271-9573 encouragement for believers. Thriving

River Region Christians

July 2022

churches are places in which members utilize their words towards one another to encourage, build up, and point one another to Jesus. Strive to proactively foster this environment in your church through the influence God has given. May I challenge you this week to intentionally encourage at least one person each day? Write a note, send a text, make a phone call. When someone does something that blesses you or you see someone doing something worthy of praise, encourage them in the Lord. Has there been a teacher than impacted you in a meaningful way? Is there a marriage that you see Christ reflected in? Have you watched someone display Christ-like service? Is there a person that reflects the joy of the Lord? Is someone walking through a tough season? Has someone blessed you? Is someone needing a nudge of back on the path? Think and consider who could benefit from a word of encouragement from your heart. Take the few moments to sit down and craft a note or tap out a message on your phone. Encouragement changes both people. After all, the familiar verse in Ephesians encourages us to, “let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only such as good for building up as fits the occasion that it may give grace to those who hear.” There’s always a good occasion to build others up in the Lord and encourage them no matter their season or circumstance. Be a people-builder-upper this week. You’ll find yourself happier in the Lord and find others to be happier in the Lord alongside you. Be intentional and grow in the grace of encouragement as you follow Jesus today! Mark Bethea is senior pastor of First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street.

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Pure:

The Air We Breathe

Why the Bible’s Plan for Sexuality Isn’t Outdated, Irrelevant, or Oppressive

How We All Came to Believe in Freedom, Kindness, Progress, and Equality

by Dean Inserra

by Glen Scrivener

Do you remember the purity movement? Or perhaps it’s better to ask this: How could you possibly forget the purity movement? Though in many ways its aims were noble—sexual purity among teens and young adults—its methods were more than a little suspect and, in the long run, often even harmful. It framed sexual purity as a method that would gain a spouse rather than as obedience that would honor God; it led people to believe that those who had lost their virginity (or who had had it taken from them) were second-class citizens; it led those had maintained their virginity to believe they should expect God to reward them with a similarly virginal spouse and, once married, a wonderful sex life. Though these messages may not have been stated explicitly, they were not far under the surface. Not surprisingly, the movement left a trail of harm in its wake—one that the church is still reckoning with. Dean Inserra witnessed this movement as an evangelical teen and now, years later, reflects on it in Pure: Why the Bible’s Plan for Sexuality Isn’t Outdated, Irrelevant, or Oppressive. This is not an academic examination of the movement but rather a kind of “now what?” analysis. “The purity culture of my youth launched a type of prosperity gospel wearing the disguise of piety. If I remain a virgin until marriage, God will give me a future spouse who did the same. In fact, they don’t deserve me if they failed to do what I did. The aftermath of this anti-gospel thinking is a trail of human brokenness.” With this trail of brokenness as his starting place, Inserra plots a better path toward purity and a better reason to maintain the Bible’s teaching on sexuality. Though the purity movement is now history, there are still deep issues with Christians and sexuality. In fact, we have recently witnessed a counter swing to a view that treats sexuality too lightly and purity too casually. So what is the church to do? In the book’s next seven chapters, Inserra describes and counters a series of lies that are prominent outside the church and, increasingly, within it: that sex is a normal, expected, and perhaps even healthy part of a dating relationship; that it’s better to marry later in life than earlier; that pornography is normal and good; that cohabitation just makes sense; and so on. Overall, Pure is a good and helpful book that insightfully analyzes the shortcomings of the purity movement and offers a much better, much more compelling, and much more biblically-grounded vision for singleness, dating, marriage, and sex. It is written with care, with compassion, and with a deep rooting in the gospel of Jesus Christ. I am confident it will be of great benefit to a great many young Christians. River Region Christians

July 2022

It seems to me that in the West today we are witnessing an attempt to “dechristianize” our society—to identify and destroy the influence of Christianity wherever it exists. The goal, of course, is to create a society that is post-Jesus and, therefore, post-Christian. Christian sexual morals are now said to be bigotry, Christian understandings of marriage and family are now said to be oppressive, Christian notions of justice are now said to be discriminatory. On and on it goes and over time this seekand-destroy mission is transforming society around us. But there is a strange irony to all of this—an irony few people are willing to understand or acknowledge: the very tools people use to criticize Christianity are tools they owe to Christianity. The values they hold and the goals they wish to see realized are values and goals that would not exist without the influence and dominance of the Christian faith. People long for equality, compassion, freedom, and progress, ignorantly supposing that these can only exist apart from societies that have been formed around Christian values. The reality, though, is that they only long for these values because they have been so long immersed in a Christianized society. This is the subject of Glen Scrivener’s fascinating new book The Air We Breathe: How We All Came to Believe in Freedom, Kindness, Progress, and Equality. “Here’s the contention of this book,” he says. “If you’re a Westerner—whether you’ve stepped foot inside a church or not, whether you’ve clapped eyes on a Bible or not, whether you consider yourself an atheist, pagan or Jedi Knight—you are a goldfish, and Christianity is the water in which you swim.” What he wishes to do is to help his readers awaken to this reality, to help them see that we all “depend on values and goals—and ways of thinking about values and goals—that have been deeply and distinctively shaped by the Jesus-revolution (otherwise known as ‘Christianity’). These values are now so all-pervasive that we consider them to be universal, obvious and natural: the air we breathe.” The Air We Breathe is one of the most interesting books I’ve read this year and one I appreciated from beginning to end. I hope many people will buy it, read it, and allow it to give them a deeper appreciation for Christianity’s influence on our society. Better yet, I hope it will give them a deeper interest and deeper confidence in the Christ of Christianity. 6

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4/25/22 7:54 AM

Steward Hayles, III Owner & Realtor Red Tails Realty Group

so moving back to the South was a bit of a culture shock. Some positive, some negative. Southern hospitality, and unfortunately, stereotypes and stigmas associated with race. That particular challenge has been one that we have embraced as Christians and black business owners. RRC: What is the inspiration behind the name of your business? SH: My wife and I graduated from Tuskegee University. Our name is a commemoration of the Tuskegee Airmen. As one of the few black-owned real estate brokerages in Montgomery, we liken ourselves to The Tuskegee Airmen and how they served their fellow serviceman and protected the public despite being the only black airmen. They were the most excellent pilots of their time and served with an ethical and moral fortitude that said, “It doesn’t matter how you feel about me. I care about you regardless.” RRC: You serve in many capacities within your church. How has serving as a deacon impacted your life? SH: It has been an honor to serve my church and community as a deacon. My church is an urban church, so we service a community in a hard place. So for me, it’s been life-changing to impact the lives of others regularly and learn about what it means to care for the needs of the many, as I believe God has called the church to do.

RRC: You and your wife are proud business owners of Red Tails Realty Group. Was it a calling from God to establish a family business? SH: We have always been entrepreneurialminded, so we thought it was a great idea. We love real estate, and we saw a genuine need and an opportunity for the brokerage. We do see it as God’s calling for us. We get to educate, help, inform, and in many cases, provide hope for people from all walks of life in real estate. RRC: You moved from Louisiana to Montgomery five years ago. How has that transition been? SH: It’s been good overall, but challenging to be honest. We both were born in Mobile, AL, but have since lived from New York to South Korea. We’ve had exposure to a lot, River Region Christians

July 2022

RRC: Being a volunteer, what do those projects entail in serving the community? SH: I volunteer for Strong Foundation, which operates out of the old Boys and Girls Club. Operation Hope is an organization that my brokerage works with to educate the public about finances and home ownership. To do both has been great. The community center run by Strong Foundation host basketball clinics. Hours of Operation for kids and young adults to play basketball provides an afterschool program for limited ages to help with school work, and has even served as a location for a neighborhood health clinic in partnership with two churches. RRC: How does faith center your marriage? SH: My wife and I took our vows many years ago. We vowed to love each other, but always 8

put God in the center of our lives. We realize that our faith is the key and the foundation of our marriage. It’s how two imperfect people can have a healthy and joyful marriage that may seem perfect to everyone else. It’s because God is who is holding it all together. RRC: The buying seminars you offer through your business, how do they assist others? SH: Our buyer seminars help people understand how they can move from renter to homeowner. Each person is at a different place in life. Some need to understand budgeting better before buying, and others need to understand how to increase their buying power or even their money management before they can buy a home. We provide the roadmap tools. And in many cases, a little bit of hope to get them there. RRC: You have four children, and the youngest (8 weeks) has a unique name, Cornell Trust. Share the meaning behind his name. SH: It’s just a name that reminds us of how we came to be in Montgomery and how we have always been able to see God’s plan through all the fog. We moved to Montgomery on faith. We quit our jobs and trusted what God told us. He wanted us to be a part of the church here. We had no idea we would open a real estate brokerage and be a part of many other initiatives in the city. We didn’t exactly plan to have Cornell Trust, and when I found out I was going to be a new dad at 41 years old, we realized that trusting God’s plan over our own has always worked out better than we could have ever dreamed. So we will continue to trust him in this, too. RRC: What advice would you give to others who find it difficult to hold on to God’s promises, especially through adversity? SH: Realize there are only two choices, trust God or don’t. My advice is to find a way to trust God. Read God’s promises during good times, so your faith is strong during hard times. And study examples of God’s promises in His word and discuss how God has kept his promises in your life and the life of others regularly. Then when difficult times come, you have a strong faith that can endure. Steward Hayles, III has been married to his wife and business partner Ayata “AJ” Hayles for 13 years. They have four children.

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River Region Christians

Frazer Moves to the Free Methodist Church

On January 30, the Frazer Family voted overwhelmingly to move from the United Methodist to the Free Methodist Church. On June 14, 2022, Frazer’s decision was ratified by the UMC AlabamaWest Florida Conference, our property was released from the UMC Trust Clause, and we were received by the FMC. We praise God for His work throughout our past and look forward joyfully to this next chapter in the life of our church. Active Frazer members will automatically be transferred over unless they choose to notify the Church Office otherwise. Learn more about the Free Methodist Church at www.fmcusa.org.

Cost of Poverty Experience August 3, 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm * First United Methodist Church 2416 West Cloverdale Park 36106 The Cost of Poverty Experience is a 2.5-hour immersive experience that provides the opportunity to gain a glimpse into the lives of families who face poverty. Many organizations and communities across the nation use COPE to work more effectively with lowincome families. COPE gives participants and volunteers an opportunity to experience poverty firsthand through the eyes of real families. The experiential nature of this training helps organizations and communities more deeply understand the complexities of poverty and paves the way for addressing the issue more comprehensively. Space is limited and advance registration is required, so don’t delay! Visit https://secure.qgiv.com/for/copreg/ to register today!

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SERVICE 9:30 AM Traditional TIMES 11:00 AM Contemporary

334-365-0606 | FBCPRATTVILLE.ORG

Connect with us: @fbcprattville River Region Christians

July 2022

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2022

Vacation

Bible Schools Century Church at The Well 1001 Marler Road, Pike Road Theme: Making Waves July 18-21, 6-8 p.m. Ages: Rising Pre K4 – Rising 5th grade Please call (334) 801.9080 for information. Hayneville Baptist Church 1180 State Hwy 21 N, Hayneville, AL Theme: Spark Studio July 17-21, 5:45 until 8:30 p.m. Ages: K4 - 6th Grade (grade completed) Email: hbc@connecthbc.com or call (334) 548.2620. Heritage Baptist, Montgomery 1849 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery Theme: Connect Camp July 18-22 Ages: K through 8th grade Call 279.9976. Holy Spirit Catholic Church 8570 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Theme: Monumental July 18-22, 9 a.m. to Noon Age: Entering Preschool – rising 5th grade Call 277.1989 or register online at www.holyspiritmgm.org Thorington Road Baptist 450 Ray Thorington Road, Montgomery Theme: Zoomerang July 17-21; 6-8:30 p.m. Ages: K5 yrs. to 5th grade. Call 396.9376. Vaughn Forest Church 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Theme: Kids Camp and Parent Experience July 24-26; Times to be announced Ages: Birth though middle school Registration at www.vaughnforest.com. Call 279.5433. 11

July 2022

River Region Christians

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Stephen Browder tells whoever gives to Faith Crusade Montgomery Rescue Mission that their donation is impactful to the community as a whole. That it helps a ministry serve the poor, the homeless, and even the middle class – those Browder sees as the working poor. Those with beautiful homes, and who come in for food. Gently used goods. Donations to this ministry – that, since 1992, has led the effort to permanently alleviate hunger and homelessness within Montgomery, surrounding areas, and abroad – provides hope. River Region Christians

July 2022

FCMRM has been at the forefront of nearly every major disaster within the southeastern region of the United States. And Browder, its director of development, said serving along his father, Chaplain Curtis “Chap” Browder (seen at left) – who founded the ministry – his mother, Buena, and sister Michelle Browder, is part of the fabric of his family. “I grew up in a Christian home,” Stephen Browder said. “My very first memories of my parents working were them always helping the community. That particular work is what I’ve always known them to do. “It was always something in me, or something I needed to do. When Scripture is in your heart, and the light in your path, you keep following it. Even if you turn from it, you get back on path. It’s gratifying at the end of the day to help your fellow man.” The mission of Faith Crusade Montgomery Rescue Mission is focused on alleviating hunger and homelessness by providing food, clothes, and shelter to those in need. The ministry focuses on poverty-stricken communities within Montgomery and surrounding areas. It is “Disaster Relief Trained and Ready” to meet the need. And those involved with it seek daily to live its mantra:

“All Year Round, We Can Be Found Doing The Work.” They follow through from Matthew 25: 35-36, which reads:

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me. Asked what the goal of the ministry is, Chaplain Browder answered: “To heal the wounds of the downtrodden people who have fallen through the cracks. The church has to work.” “Chap” began his ministry in 1982 in Chilton County, with his participation in the Food Share program allowing him to help more than 5,000 people from Jemison to Selma, and Selma to Tuskegee and Montgomery, according to an article on the Faith Crusade website. In 1986, Browder moved to Montgomery and began his work on Decatur Street before moving to Mildred Street five years later, where the ministry remains today. The ministry participates in countless mobile food pantries, and has been one of the largest agencies of the Montgomery Area Food Bank.

Director of Development, Stephen Browder

It offers a prison ministry, provides homes for sex offenders, helps men find employment, and offers education. The ministry’s largest group of volunteers are ex-offenders. From Montgomery to Atlanta, there are roughly 45 volunteers. Browder, 80, affirms his life and ministry have touched countless people over the past 51 years in ministry, claiming it is his calling in life. “Men are tall but few are chosen,” he said. “I’m doing the same thing I did 50-

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plus years ago. Last year alone, we gave out three million pounds of food. We’ve touched lives. It snowballs … I can’t tell you how many people we touch. “It’s important that we have our ministry because we are an outreach ministry to the community,” he said. “We work hand in hand, partner with the Montgomery Area Food Bank. We also partnered with Frazer Church when John Ed (Mathison, the church’s pastor emeritus) was there. He has been a great part of my life. “I’ll do this until Jesus comes.” Today, “Chap” works alongside his entire family. “Words cannot explain how I feel about my family,” he said. “They all three love Jesus. Family is God sent.” His wife, Buena, opened Abner House for female veterans almost two years ago. Daughter Michelle is the founder and director of “I Am More Than,” a youth empowerment initiative in Montgomery. She also owns and operates “More Than Tours,” a social business providing educational tours for nearly 10,000 underserved students in marginalized communities of color. “Chap’s” son, Stephen, moved to Montgomery four years ago from his life in California, where he worked as an actor in features including “Remember the

Titans,” “Boston Legal,” and “Malcom in the Middle.” He serves with the ministry through its thrift store, which supports the rescue mission. “My parents, they founded and ran the mission since 1991,” he said. “They’re getting older and Pop asked if I could come here and help. It wasn’t a light decision.” What ultimately helped him make the decision to move to the River Region was the fact that his family “raised a family that prays together, stays together. God touched my heart and I said, ‘I’ve got to go.’ “I’ve always known it, but just didn’t know it would be at the pinnacle of my career.” Serving in ministry in and of itself, Browder said, is a calling. “I take solitude in that. To be able to help families, being impactful mentally and spiritually. The love I have for this particular work, it’s in me. I thank God for helping me understand the purpose. “So many people are trying to find their purpose, and mine was right there all along. Hollywood is not easy, and living a life that had some sort of standard is not easy. But I kept my moral compass in the word of God. And He blessed me beyond measure.

“When I came here and started the work, I saw a difference in the eyes … whether they’re coming out of prison, whatever. Now they’re rebuilding their lives. It starts from the inside.” Eighty-five percent of the proceeds from the ministry’s thrift store goes back into the mission, and into feeding communities: the ministry supports four counties from the areas of Clanton to Glenwood to Montgomery and Prattville. “The proceeds go right back to the community,” Stephen said. “Nobody here is making multi-millions of dollars. The CEO eats, lives, and breathes among the people. I’m looking at the inside-out. If you look in Joshua’s life, he was in the inside of it. He didn’t have the money that people thought he had. “This is a faith-based walk. And you have to have the Holy Spirit to lead and guide you.” To learn more: Information and how to donate to the Faith Crusade Montgomery Rescue Mission can be found online at www.fcmrm.org.

Kym Klass is a contributing writer and Communications Director of the Media Ministry at Frazer Church in Montgomery.

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Following His Calling... Despite the Falls

“...And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28) The level of trust in being created for His calling is paramount in our growth. Our trust that if we fall five times, that we get back up five times. And that we don’t stop getting back up until we’ve reached what we’re called to do.

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It’s funny, and we usually laugh and joke about it when we read it – “When God put a calling on your life He already factored in your stupidity.” And we say, “Whew, thank goodness for that, right?” and then discuss every part of our lives He has already factored in – even if just from the past year. Or week. Everything He has already seen. That He has already forgiven. That He already knew we’d do. Before we were born. The mistakes. The poor decisions. The highs. Lows. And He still put a calling on our lives. Amongst the bumps and bruises along the way, He still believed – believes – we were called to do great things in ways that bring honor to Him. That help others, in ways that serve our community, our church, those hurting. It is the most comforting to know that despite our flaws and mistakes, that He still put a calling on our lives. Knowing that the mistakes along the way would serve as steppingstones, as lessons learned. As experiences that would only make us stronger and wiser. More honest and vulnerable. And keep us humble.

That the journey we take allows the It’s worth the effort when you get there. calling to fall into place. That realizing and Even if you’re already there, and feel there’s accepting that God is working on us from even more. A different calling, a higher callthe inside, out. That the only image we ing. A different path from the first. Or if you should be concerned about is the one He feel you’re still on that journey of realizing or made in His eyes. finding the calling He placed on your life. And to honor that. It’s a lot of work, and patience. And As an 18-year-old college freshman, I trust. And it takes listening to Him. And entered into the school of education at my knowing He already factored in your falls. university because I wanted to follow in my Stupidity. Use those as the building blocks. mother’s footsteps of becoming an elemenShow yourself grace through and through. tary school teacher. After the first semester, We can take refuge in knowing that my teenaged self realized it wasn’t for me. He is all-knowing, and that He has laid out Or, it was the fact that surrounding a beautiful life for us – and we just need to myself around 30 6- to 7-year-olds with reremember that in all of His factorization, He corders – and who knew how to blow them still loves us, and desires for His children to loudly – wasn’t for me. live according to His will. I walked away from that experience and a couple of years later, found myself in ATTENTION WETUMPKA AREA FAMILIES the mass communication department at my university – specifically, in print journalism. And after one trial news article for our university’s newspaper, I knew in my heart UNITED METHODIST WETUMPKA I had found my calling. His calling for me. A church for your family, “This is what meeting the needs of our community. I’m meant to do,” I remember telling my father. I was three years into my college experience, so I excused any skepticism from him. Still, I have followed my calling for decades. Come worship with us! There was plenty of “stupidity” along the way to that realization. Even in the midst of www.wetumpkafirst.com/worship my calling. Mistakes have been made, First United Methodist Church of Wetumpka wrong turns. Bad deci306 W. Tuskeena St., Wetumpka, AL 36092 sions. But I knew it was where I belonged. @wetumpkafirst • (334) 567-7865 Telling stories, sharing secretary@firstwetumpka.com the lives of others.

Online and On-Campus

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River Region Christians

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What is the church? Why has God called us into these little communities? Does the local church really matter? River Region Christians

July 2022

It does! The local church is foundational to God’s plan for his people. In their book Church in Hard Places, Mez McConnell and Mike McKinley offer...

SIX REASONS

the local church matters

#1 The local church is the way God

intends to accomplish his mission in the world. “It is primarily though the local church that God wants to make himself known.” Of all the evangelism strategies in the world, of all the ministries in the world, none is more central than the local church. It’s interesting to note that Paul considered his ministry in an area fulfilled not when every person was reached, but when churches had been planted (see Romans 15:19-20). “Paul knew that the churches there were how the gospel would spread into all of the individual neighborhoods. Local churches do local evangelism.” The church is God’s plan, it is God’s mission.

#2 The local church is where the

believer grows. It is primarily in the local church that Christians learn doctrine, receive reproof, and train in righteousness (see Ephesians 4:11-13). The local church provides opportunities for growth that are available nowhere else. McConnell says, “In a scheme [a neighborhood] like Niddrie, people need the concerted time and effort that only a local church can provide. Very often people will turn up on our doorstep having heard the gospel through

some parachurch ministry. Yet they almost always have large gaps in their biblical knowledge and Christian behavior. Without a local church committed to patiently teaching and training them, these people will flounder indefinitely.” We all need a local church if we are to become like Christ.

#3 The local church is the place

where believers must submit themselves to spiritual authority. Many people from many walks of life struggle with issues of authority, though this problem is especially prevalent in the schemes of Scotland. Mez says, “they will not accept criticism or input from anybody they regard as an authority figure.” This attitude needs to be dealt with immediately. God calls Christians to submit to spiritual authority within the local church (see Hebrews 13:17). All believers are called by God to put themselves under the care and oversight of elders. “A culture that despises any kind of authority needs to see healthy models of leadership and submission. And the place for people to see this modeled is in the local church.”

#4 The local church is the place

from which discipline is biblically administered. The task of disciplining disobedient or unruly Christians belongs to the local church. This is a difficult task but one given specifically to the church as a means to show the deepest love and concern for the spiritual care of believers (Matthew 18:15-17). Discipline belongs to the church as one of its important functions.

#5 The local church is the best place for spiritual accountability. We have

probably all encountered people who believed they were called to ministry or who even carried out some kind of ministry even though their lives were a mess. This happens where people do not have proper spiritual accountability. “All Christians need the spiritual accountability and discipline that being a member of the local church brings. It stops us from drifting. It offers a context for encouragement and rebuke. It provides a community to stir one another on to love and good deeds.”

#6 The local church should matter

to us because it matters to God. The church is Jesus’ body on earth (see Ephesians 1:22-23) and it is made up of all kinds of people from all walks of life. “Together we represent Christ here on earth through our local body of believers. Therefore, the church is central to the purposes of God and is of benefit to the world around us— even today in our increasingly hostile culture.” The church exists for God’s glory and showcases it in a unique way. “The church is built for Jesus, by Jesus, and on Jesus. It is simply unthinkable then to separate Jesus from the local church. If the gospel is the diamond in the great salvific plan of God, then the church is the clasp that supports it, holds it up, and shows it in its greatest light for the world to see.” If it matters so much to God, it needs to matter to us just as much.

Tim Challies is a pastor, author and book reviewer from Canada.

July 2022

River Region Christians

DN day, 5:30 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: Under 150 MIN: Children’s ministry, Youth and Missions Woodland United Methodist Church 4428 Wallahatchie Road (334) 272.7230 www.woodlandontheweb.org DN: United Methodist Pastor: Rev. Nicholas Hughes WT: Sunday, 8 a.m., 9:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Seniors, Discipleship, Children’s, Youth, and Music

36054 - Millbrook Central Bible Chapel 3270 Main Street, Millbrook Phone: (334) 285.6524 Website: www.centralbiblechapel.com DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Scott Leach WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wed. at 7 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Sunday school, Outreach, Men and Women’s Bible studies, Children’s Destiny Church 2410 Wall Street, (334) 230.5444 DN: Non-denominational Pastor: DJ Stinard WT: Sunday, 10 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 850-1000 MIN: Small Groups, Students, Kids, Meals for Homeless, Reach, and College Goodship Missionary Baptist Church 1554 AL Hwy 143 (334) 285.0094 Website: www.goodshipmbchurch.com Facebook: Goodship Missionary Baptist Church Pastor: Rev. Dr. Derwin Perry DN: Baptist WT: Sunday, 10 a.m.; Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Sunday school, Youth, Women’s and Men’s Ministry, Choir, Bible Study Grace Community Church 3515 Highway 14, (334) 285.4655 Web: www.gracemillbrook.com Pastor: Dr. Albert Russell WT: Sunday, 10:15 a.m.; Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Sunday school, Youth, Bible Study, Discipleship, Men’s, Women’s, Missions, Faith Training Grandview Pines Baptist Church 346 Deatsville Hwy, (334) 285-5125 Web: www.mygpbc.com DN: Independent Baptist Pastor: Chance Sangster WT: Sunday, 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Children’s and Youth ministries Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings, College and Career, Bus ministry, Ladies’ ministry, Men’s ministry, Music, Community, Missions, Bible Institute Millbrook Baptist Church 3431 Browns Road, (334) 285.4731 Web: www.millbrookbaptist.com DN: Baptist Pastor: Mike Ingram WT: Sunday, 10:00 a.m., 6 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Youth, Seniors, Children’s, Music, Women’s, Men’s, Daycare Millbrook First United Methodist Church 3350 Edgewood Rd, (334) 285.4114 Website: www.mfumc.org DN: Methodist Pastor: Rev. Jerry May WT: Sunday 9:00 (Contemporary) and 11:15 (Traditional)

River Region Christians

July 2022

WS: Traditional and Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Children’s, Men &Women, Senior Adult, Youth, College, Out Reach & Care Millbrook Presbyterian Church 3480 Main Street, (334) 285.4031 Web: www.millbrookpca.com DN: Presbyterian (PCA) Pastor: Rev. Brannon T. Bowman WT: Sunday, 10:15 a.m., 5:30 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Youth/Children, Women’s, Seniors, Men’s, Fellowship Groups, VBS, Mission Trips New Life Church of Millbrook 4230 Millbrook, Hwy 14, (334) 285.6996 Web: www.nlmillbrook.com DN: Non-Denominational Pastor: T. Alan Cova WT: Sunday, 10:00 a.m. and Wed. at 7 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Children’s, Youth, Young couples, Women’s, Men’s, Seniors, New Life Christian Academy Robinson Springs United Methodist Church 5980 Main Street, (334) 285-2488 Web: www.rsum.org Pastor: Rev. Janet Krantz DN: United Methodist Church WT: Sunday, 10:00 AM and Wed. at 6 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Children, Youth, Wed Fellowship & Bible Study, Women & Men, Community Outreach Victory Baptist Church 5481 Main Street, (334) 285.5082 Website: www.victorymillbrook.com DN: Independent Baptist Pastor: Joey Bird WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Juvenile, Jail, Children’s Church, Junior Church, Nursing Home Ministry

36064-Pike Road Antioch Missionary Baptist Church 738 Gibbs Road, Pike Rd, (334) 215.3596 Web: antiochmtmeigs.com Pastor: Richard E. Griffin DN: Baptist WT: Sunday, 9:45 am and Wednesday at 6 p.m. WS: Traditional MIN: Nursery, Youth, Men’s, Mission, Prison, Drama, Choir, and Audiovisual/Multimedia

36066, 36067 - Prattville Camellia Baptist Church 201 Woodvale Road, (334) 365.0231 Web: www.cbcprattville.org DN: Baptist Interim Pastor: James Taylor WT: Sunday, 10 a.m., 6 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: AWANA, Children’s, Youth, Singles, Women’s, Men’s, Missions, Music, Upward Centerpoint Fellowship 1200 McQueen Smith Road, (334) 356.3076 Web: www.centeringlives.com DN: Non-denominational Pastor: John Schmidt WT: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 1200-1500 MIN: Children, Youth, College, Missions, Small Groups East Memorial Baptist Church 1320 Old Ridge Rd., (334) 365.7500 Web: www.eastmemorial.org DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Glenn Graham, Jr. WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m.; Wed. night at 6:15 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 700-900 MIN: Student, College & Career, Singles, Children’s, AWANA, Seniors, Women’s, Men’s Evangel Church 972 McQueen Smith Road, (334) 272.4882 Web: www.evangelchurch.me DN: Assembly of God Pastor: Mike Rippy Campus Pastor: Devon LeMaster WT: Sunday, 10 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Sunday school, Children, Students, College, Growth Track, Life Groups, Dream Team

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138 S. Washington Street, (334) 365.0606 Web: www.fbcprattville.org DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Dr. Peyton Hill WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 800-1200 MIN: Children’s, Youth, Men’s, Women’s, Mission Friends, Choir (all ages), Moms Day Out, Kindergarten, Adult Discipleship, Moms LIFE

First Presbyterian Church ad on page 25

Century Church 37 Bridge Street, (334) 801.9080 Web: www.century.church DN: United Methodist Pastor: Dr. Patrick Quinn WT: Sunday, 10 a.m. Worship at The Well (1001 Marler Road) WS: Multiple Styles Offered AT: 200-400 MIN: VBS, Life Groups, Youth Group, Missions

211 S. Chestnut Street, (334) 365.6387 Web: www.firstpresbyterianchurchofprattville.com DN: First Presbyterian Church of America Pastor: Bryant Hansen Asst Pastor: Allan Bledsoe WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Youth, Community, Women’s, and Men’s

Pike Road Baptist Church 4790 Pike Road, (334) 272.7690 Web: www.pikeroadchurch.org DN: Baptist WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. and Wednes-

First United Methodist Church 100 E. Fourth Street, (334) 365.5977 Web: www.prattvillemethodist.org DN: United Methodist

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DN: Denomination WT: Worship Times WS: Worship Style(s) AT: Attendance OL: Other Languages MIN: Ministries Offered Pastor: Rev. Tony McCullough WT: Sunday, 9a.m., 11a.m. WS: Blended AT: 400-800 MIN: Children’s, Youth, Singles, Older Adults, Support Groups, Mom’s Day Out, and Preschool

DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Tom Gaylord WT: Sunday, 9:35 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: under 150 MIN: Children, Youth, College, Missions and Small Groups

Fountain City Baptist Church 492 East Main Street, (334) 365.2034 Web: www.fountaincitybaptist.com DN: Baptist Pastor: Rick Moore WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m., 5 p.m.; Wednesday, 6:15 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Sunday school, Children’s, Teen, Older Adult, AWANA, Music (adults and youth), Men’s, Women’s, Missions and Outreach

First Baptist Church 205 W. Bridge Street, (334) 567.5191 Website: www.fbcwetumpka.com DN: Baptist Pastor: Dr. Clint Landry WT: Sunday, 10:15 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Children’s, Youth, Men’s, Women’s, Older Adults

Fountain of Grace 881 McQueen Smith Road, S., (334) 365.5511 Web: www.fountainofgrace.us DN: Christian Missionary Alliance Pastor: Tony Butler WT: Sunday, 10:40 a.m., 6 p.m. WS: Blended AT: Under 150-400 MIN: Youth, Sunday school, Women of Grace, Music, Sound, AWANA (during school year)

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Glynwood Baptist Church 376 N. McQueen Smith Road, (334) 361.9180 Web: www.glynwoodbc.com DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Rev. James Jackson WT: Sunday, 8:30 and 11 a.m. and Wed. at 6:30 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 400-800 MIN: Children’s, Youth, Music, Prayer, Seniors, AWANA, Mom’s Day Out, Bible Study and prayer Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Heritage Baptist Church 1357 S. Memorial Drive, (334) 365.2372 Web: www.hbcprattville.org DN: Baptist Pastor: Roger D. Parks WT: Sunday 9a.m. and 10a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: AWANA, Youth, VBS, Children’s Church, Adult, Music and Missions Trips Hunter Hills Church of Christ 330 Old Farm Lane N., (334) 285.2700 Web: www.hunterhills.org DN: Church of Christ Pastor: Rusty Adair WT: Sunday at 8 a.m., 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Children’s, Youth, Singles, Support Groups, Leisure, and Small Groups Journey Church 435 Shiela Blvd, (334) 351.9994 Web: www.myjourneychurch.com DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Mike Mozingo WT: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 10:45 WS: Contemporary AT: 400-800 MIN: Small Groups, Children’s, Youth, Missions, Growth Track and Outreach Voice of Victory Church (10 min. from Prattville) 449 County RD 165, Autaugaville, (334) 365.2031 Web: www.vovc.org DN: Word of Faith Pastor: Sandra Gober Associate Pastor: Caleb Gober WT: Sunday 10:30 a.m. and Wed., 7 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: under 150 MIN: Prison, Youth, Children’s, Adult, Senior, Young Professionals and Invasion Evangelism

36092 - Wetumpka Blue Ridge Baptist Church 4471 Jasmine Hill Rd., (334) 567.4325 Web: www.blueridgebaptistchurch.net Pastor: Rev. John Carney WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. WS: Blended AT: under 150 Min: Children’s, Youth, College, Prayer and Missions Centerpoint Fellowship 9301 US Hwy. 231, (334) 478.7826 Web: www.centeringlives.com

First United Methodist Church 306 W. Tuskeena St., (334) 567.7865 Web: www.wetumpkafirst.com Pastor: Rev. Matt Albritton WT: Sunday, 10 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Children’s ministry, Youth, Hispanic Ministry, Young adults, Missions, Prayer and Adult ministry Grace Baptist Church 304 Old Montgomery Hwy., (334) 567.3255 Web: www.gbcwetumpka.org Pastor: Justin L. Teate WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.; 6:30 p.m. Wednesday WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Sunday school, Adult, Youth, Children’s Mountain View Baptist Church 1025 Rifle Range Rd, (334) 567.4458 Web: www.mvbaptist.com DN: Baptist Pastor: Dr. Tim Thompson WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m., and 6 p.m. MIN: Food closet, AWANA, Upwards Soccer, Operation Christmas Child, Children, Youth, College, Men and Women’s Ministry, Seniors, Music, Education and Library. Mulder Memorial UMC 3454 Firetower Rd., (334) 567.4225 Web: www.mulderchurch.co Pastor: Jonathan Hart WT: Sunday, 8 a.m., 10 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 400-800 MIN: Children’s ministry, Adult, Youth, Groups, Outreach, Missions and Prayer Redland Baptist Church 1266 Dozier Road, (334) 567.8649 Web: www.redlandbaptistchurch.org Facebook: Redland Baptist Church DN: Baptist Pastor: Bryce Cox WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Children’s, Youth, Senior, Adult, Choir and VBS Redland Hills Church 3105 Rifle Range Road, (334) 986.0001 Web: www.redlandhills.org Facebook: Redland Hills Church DN: Non-Denominational Pastor: Wes Gunn WT: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Children’s, Youth, VBS, and Community Groups Ridge Church 109 Company Street, (334) 567.8591 Web: www.ridgechurch.com Facebook: RidgeChurchAL IG: RidgeChurchAL DN: Non-Denominational Pastor: Trip Healey WT: Sundays, 9:45 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Kid’s, Student’s, Small Groups and Outreach Santuck Baptist Church 7250 Central Plank Road, (334) 567.2364 Web: santuckbaptist.org DN: Baptist Pastor: Ben Nobles WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. AT: 400-800 MIN: Pre-school, Children’s, Student, Worship, Small Groups, Adults, Missions, and Celebrate Recovery

36104 - Montgomery The Episcopal Church of the Ascension 315 Clanton Ave, (334) 263.5529 Website: www.coascension.org Rector: Reverend Candice Frazer DN: Episcopal WT: Sunday, 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Music, Children, Youth, Men’s Prayer Breakfast, Food Pantry, Shut-in, Outreach, Stephen Ministry, Tutoring

First Baptist Church ad on Back Cover

305 S. Perry Street, (334) 834.6310 Web: www.montgomeryfbc.org DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Mark Bethea WT: Sunday, 8:30, 11 a.m., and 6:15 p.m. WS: Blended AT: over 1500 MIN: Preschool, Children’s, Youth, College, Singles, Adults, Seniors, Internationals, Music, Special Needs, Community, Television, Support Groups, Counseling Center New Life Church of God in Christ (Annex 3) 600 Columbus Street, (334) 558.0258 Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Pastor: Terry Ellison Co-Pastor: Elder Kylee & Lady Kimberely McKinney WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: Under 150 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM, Children’s, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School) Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Men’s group, Christian Women’s Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry, and much, much more. 24 hr. Prayer Line 284-1112 St. John’s AME Church 807 Madison Avenue, (334) 265-4136 Website: www.saintjohnsame.com Facebook: St. John’s AME Church – Montgomery, Alabama Pastor: Rev. Roosevelt Williams III DN: African Methodist Episcopal WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. MIN: Youth, Clothes Closet, Food Pantry, Free Transportation, and Prayer St. John’s Episcopal Church 113 Madison Avenue, (334) 262.1937 Website: www.stjohnsmontgomery.org DN: Episcopal Rector: Interim WT: Sunday, 7:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m.; Tuesdays, 7 a.m.; Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m.; Thursdays, 12:05 p.m. AT: 150-400 MIN: Christian Education, Youth, Children’s, Adult, Missions and Outreach, Homeless Trinity Presbyterian Church 1728 S. Hull Street, (334) 262.3892 Web: www.trinitypca.org DN: Presbyterian Church in America Pastor: Claude E. McRoberts WT: Sunday, 8:30 and 11 a.m., 6 p.m. Summer schedule: 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 400-800 MIN: Adults, Children’s (Catechism Classes and Pioneer Clubs), Youth, Missions, Choir, Preschool, and Singles

36105 - Montgomery Community Congregational Church 3481 South Court Street, (334) 265-4411 Web: www.cccmontgomery.org Pastor: Rev. Ray Speller WT: Sunday 10:45 am WS: Blended MIN: Men’s, Women’s, Youth, Food Pantry, Clothes Closet, Usher Ministry, Acolyte Ministry and Benevolence Ministry Rebirth Christian Ministries 321 W. Fleming Road, (334) 281-0910 Web: http://rcministries02.wix.com/rcministries

July 2022

River Region Christians

DN Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1550 East Washington Street, (334) 265.1807 www.pilgrimrestmbc.org Pastor: Rev. Walter E. Ellis DN: Baptist WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 400-800 MIN: Sunday school, Youth Mentoring, Youth Choir, Women’s, Bible Study

36108 Montgomery DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Willie Summerlin Jr. WT: Sunday 10:00 a.m., Wednesday 6:00 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: Under 150

36106 - Montgomery Capital City Church of the Nazarene 4450 Vaughn Road, (334) 272.8176 Web: www.capcitynaz.org DN: Church of the Nazarene Pastor: Dr. Bill Hamby W T: Sunday School 10:00 am, Worship 11:00 am, Hispanic Service 1:30 pm, Wednesday Bible Study 6:00 pm Worship Style: Traditional Ministries: Sunday School for all ages, Wednesday Night Women’s Bible Study, Wednesday Night Men’s Bible Study, Wednesday Night Children’s Bible Study and Quizzing, 4:12 Ministries for children and youth, prayer, Facebook Live services, Hispanic services with Templo Biblico Cloverdale Baptist Church 608 E. Fairview Avenue, (334) 265.9223 Website: www.cloverdalemontgomery.org DN: Southern Baptist WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. and Wednesday, 6 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: Under 150 MIN: Sunday school, Preschool Academy, Fun and Fellowship, Seniors, Youth, Choir for all ages Eastwood Presbyterian Church 1701 E. Trinity Blvd., (334) 272.3103 Web: www.eastwoodchurch.org DN: Presbyterian (PCA) Pastor: Bart Lester WT: Sunday, 10:55 a.m. (10:30 during summer) and 5:30 p.m. Evening service meets at Chantilly Campus located at 9299 Vaughn Road. WS: Traditional AT: 400-800 MIN: Missions, Counseling, School, College, Youth, Women, and Military Evangel Church 3975 Vaughn Road, (334) 272.4882 Web: www.evangelchurch.me DN: Assembly of God Pastor: Michael Rippy WT: Sunday, 10:30 WS: Contemporary AT: 400-800 MIN: Sunday school, Children, Students, College, Growth Track, Life Groups, Dream Team First United Methodist Church 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, (334) 834.8990 Web: www.fumcmontgomery.org DN: Methodist Pastor: Dr. Jay D. Cooper WT: Sunday, 8:45 a.m., 11 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 800 to 1500 MIN: Children’s, Youth, Young Adults, Adults, Seniors, Men’s, Women’s Heritage Baptist Church 1849 Perry Hill Road, (334) 279.9976 Web: www.hbcm.net Pastor: Teman Knight DN: Southern Baptist WT: Sunday, 10:15 WS: Blended

River Region Christians

July 2022

AT: 400-800 MIN: Children, VBS, Seniors, Journeymen Men’ Ministry, Zoe Women’s Ministry, Lifestones, Youth, College, Family Life Center, Child Development Center, Footprints Ministry and Heritage FaithRiderz. New Life Church of God in Christ (Annex 1) 1615 Mulberry Street, (334) 558.0258 Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Pastor: Elder Terry Ellison Co-Pastor: Elder Charles Clark & Evangelist Sharon Clark WT: Sunday, 10 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: Under 150 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM, Children’s, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School) Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Men’s group, Christian Women’s Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry, and much, much more. 24 hr. Prayer Line 284-1112 New Life Church of God in Christ (Annex 6) 1601 East Trinity Blvd., (334) 558.0258 Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Pastor: Elder Terry Ellison Co-Pastor: Elder Rodney Brannon & Shawna Brannon WT: Sunday, 8:45 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: Under 150 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM, Children’s, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School) Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Men’s group, Christian Women’s Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry, and much, much more. 24 hr. Prayer Line 284-1112 Vaughn Park Church of Christ 3800 Vaughn Road, (334) 272.2665 Web: www.vaughnpark.com DN: Church of Christ Pastor: Tim Rine WT: Sunday, 10 a.m., 5 p.m., Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 400-800 MIN: Agape, Bible Class, Children’s, Financial Peace University, Life Groups, Food Pantry, Ladies, Inner City, Marriage, Men’s, Student, Upward, World Bible School and Worship

36107 - Montgomery Capitol Heights Baptist Church 2514 Madison Avenue, (334) 264.6461 Web: www.capitolheights.org DN: Baptist Pastor: Russell K. Zwerner WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Worship & Music, Children’s, Families, Men’s, Seniors, Students, Women’s

Mt. Gillard Missionary Baptist 3323 Day St, (334) 263.2171 Website: Find us on Facebook Pastor: Rev. Henry Carnegie DN: Missionary Baptist WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m. AT: under 150 MIN: Sunday School, Health and Wellness Ministry, Food Bank, Youth, Children’s Church New Life Church of God in Christ (Annex 4) 4781 Mobile Highway, (334) 558.0258 Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Pastor: Elder Terry Ellison & Lady J Ellison WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 400 to 800 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM, Children’s, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School) Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Men’s group, Christian Women’s Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry, and much, much more. 24 hr. Prayer Line 284-1112 Rosa Parks Avenue Church of God 1701 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, (334) 265.6008 Facebook: Rosa L Parks Ave Church of God Pastor: James I. Marshall DN: Non-denominational WT: Sunday, 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. AT: under 150-400 MIN: Youth, GED Program, Bible Study, Singles, Seniors, Counseling and Choir

36109 - Montgomery All Saints Episcopal Church 645 Coliseum Blvd., (334) 272.2591 Web: www.allsaintsal.com Rector: Rev. David Peeples DN: Episcopal WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Outreach, Children’s, Women’s, Men’s, Youth Beacon of Hope Church of God 1045 Coliseum Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36109 Web: www.beaconofhope.cc/ Pastor: Mark Brown DN: Church of God WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m. (Sunday School), 10:45 a.m. (Worship), 6:00p.m. (Evening Service) and Wednesday night, 7 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Nursery, Pre-School, Children, Jr. Church, Student, Youth, Graduates & Professionals, Men’s, Women’s, Older Adults, Choir Music, Sunday School, Worship, Adult Bible Study, World Missions, Church Planting, Food Ministry, Community Outreach Ministry Cornerstone Christian Church 301 Dalraida Road, (334) 273.8595 Web: www.cornerstone-cc.org DN: Non-denominational Pastor: Jay Thompson WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: Under 150 MIN: Sunday school, Children’s, Youth, Women’s, Seniors, AWANA, Cornerstone Kids, CC Quilters

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DN: Denomination WT: Worship Times WS: Worship Style(s) AT: Attendance OL: Other Languages MIN: Ministries Offered Dalraida Baptist Church 3838 Wares Ferry Road, (334) 272.2412 Web: www.dalraidabaptist.com DN: Baptist Pastor: Rick Evans WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Music, Sunday school, Discipleship, Children’s, Youth, Ladies, Seniors, FAITH Outreach, Missions

Dalraida United Methodist Church ad on page 10

3817 Atlanta Highway, (334) 272.2190 Web: www.dumc.tv DN: United Methodist Pastor: Rev. Michael Cobb WT: Sunday, 8:30 and 11 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Children’s, Music, Outreach, Sunday School, Youth Eastern Hills Baptist Church 3604 Pleasant Ridge Road, (334) 272.0604 Web: www.ehbconline.com Pastor: Josh Wootton WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m., 6:00 p.m., Summer Schedule: 10:15 a.m. and 5 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 400-800 OL: Spanish MIN: Children, Teens, College & Career, Adults, Senior Adults, Men, Women, Music, Hispanic, Childcare and Homeschool Eastmont Baptist Church 4505 Atlanta Highway, (334) 277.6300 Web: www.eastmont.org DN: Baptist Pastor: Frank Bowling WT: Sunday, 8:10 a.m., 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: above 1500 MIN: Children’s, Student, College & Career, Singles, Men’s, Women’s, Senior, Music, Missions, Hispanic, Technical First Presbyterian Church 5 Arden Road at Atlanta Highway, (334) 261.8689 Website: 1stmgm.com DN: Presbyterian Church in America Pastor: Reed De Pace WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Traditional, Blended AT: Under 150 MIN: Men’s, Women’s, and Seniors Morningview Baptist Church 125 Calhoun Road, (334) 272.2304 Web: www.morningview.org DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Shawn Merithew, Ph.D. WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Children’s, Youth, Family, AWANA, Student, Adult Bible Studies, Fellowship Groups, Senior Adult, Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy, Music and Worship, GRACE outreach teams, Hands of Christ, Orphan Care, International Missions, Partner Trips St. Paul Lutheran Church 4475 Atlanta Highway, (334) 272.6214 Web: www.stpaulmontgomery.org Pastor: Reverend Carey Elam DN: Lutheran WT: Sunday, 9 a.m. (Contemporary), 10:30 a.m. (traditional) WS: Multiple Styles Offered AT: 150-400 MIN: Youth, Choir University Church of Christ 5315 Atlanta Hwy, (334) 386.7320 Web: www.ucoc.org DN: Church of Christ Minister: Randy Medlin WT: Sundays, 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 400-800 MIN: Youth, College, Prison and Children’s

36110 - Montgomery Jubilee Christian Fellowship 55 Red Eagle Road, (334) 451.0059 DN: Congregational Holiness Pastor: Mark H. Pate WT: Sunday, 11 a.m. and Wednesday at 6 p.m.

WS: Traditional AT: under 100 Min: Children, Outreach, Sunday School, Youth and Women’s

36111-Montgomery New Life Church of God in Christ (Main Campus) 4116 Narrow Lane Road, (334) 558.0258 Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Co-Pastor: Elder Charles Clark & Evangelist Sharon Clark WT: Sunday, 8 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM Children’s, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School) Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Men’s group, Christian Women’s Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry, and much, much more. 24 hr. Prayer Line 284-1112 Unity Worship Center 2311 Oxford Dr, (334) 288-2007 Facebook: Unityucc DN: UCC Pastor: Bennie Liggins WT: Sunday, 10 Ministries: Men, Women, Youth, Seniors, Bible Study, and Clothes Closet Whitfield Memorial United Methodist 2673 Fisk Road, (334) 281.2467 Web: www.whitfieldumc.org DN: United Methodist Pastor: Rev. Kathy Fisher WT: Sunday, 10 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Children, Youth, And Older Adults

36116-Montgomery Aldersgate United Methodist Church 6610 Vaughn Road, (334) 272.6152 Web: www.aldersgateumc.org DN: United Methodist Pastor: Dr. Brian Miller WT: Sundays, 8:15 (Chapel Worship), 10:30 a.m. (Traditional and Contemporary) WS: Multiple Styles Offered AT: 400 to 800 MIN: Children’s Ministry, Youth, Music (all ages), Young Adults (College & Career), Seniors, Stephens, Weekday Children’s Ministry Day Care & After School Programs, Men’s, Women’s, Wednesday Night Connections Dinner & Small Groups, Youth and Adult Sports, Food Pantry, Library Calvary Baptist Church 8197 Decker Lane, (334) 284.3737 Web: www.calvarymontgomery.org DN: Independent Baptist Pastor: Jed Carnes WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m., 5 p.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Married, Singles, Seniors, Men, Women, Preschool, Children, AWANA, Bus Ministry, Summer Program, Youth, Missions, Worship Church of the Highlands 4255 Taylor Road, Phone: (205) 980.557 Website: www.churchofthehighlands.com/campuses/ Montgomery Pastor: Chris Erwin WT: Sunday, 8:00 a.m., 9:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. WS: Contemporary Attendance: 800-1500 Ministries: Small Groups, Outreach, Youth, and Motion & Missions

Gateway Baptist Church ad on page 11

3300 Bell Road, (334) 272.9494 Web: www.gatewaybaptist.com Pastor: Grady Smith DN: Southern Baptist WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Small Groups, AWANA, Student, Youth, Seniors, Men and Women’s, Military

Messiah Lutheran Church 6670 Vaughn Road, (334) 277.4213 Web: www.messiahlutheranmgm.org DN: Lutheran Pastor: Rev. Steven Renner WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Youth, Music, Missions, and Lunches for Learning New Life Church of God in Christ (Annex 5) 5600 Carriage Hills Drive, (334) 558.0258 Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Pastor: Elder Terry Ellison Co-Pastor: Lois Russell WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 400 to 800 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM, Children’s, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School) Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Men’s group, Christian Women’s Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry. 24 hr. Prayer Line 284-1112 New Life Church of God in Christ (Annex 2) 5000 Patterson Road, (334) 558.0258 Web: www.nlcogic.org DN: Church of God in Christ Pastor: Elder Terry Ellison Co-Pastor: Elder Theodore Williams WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: Over 1500 MIN: Gospel Radio Station WXVI 1600 AM, Children’s, Youth, Singles, Job Skills Center, New Life Theological Institute, Stages (Strategies To Achieving Godly Experiences in School) Tutorial program, Educational Programs, Man to Man Christian Men’s group, Christian Women’s Council, Drama Guild, Youth Step and Drill Teams, Mime and Dance Team, Youth for Christ Choir, Sanctuary Choir, Caregiver, Hospitality, Community Outreach Ministry, 24 hr. Prayer Line 284-1112 Ridgecrest Baptist Church 5260 Vaughn Road, (334) 277.0011 Web: www.rbcmontgomery.com DN: Southern Baptist Associate Pastor: Tom Smith WT: Sunday, 10:45 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Music, Children’s, Youth, Single, Married, Senior, Women’s and Men’s Young Meadows Presbyterian 5780 Vaughn Road, (334) 244.1385 Web: www.youngmeadows.org DN: PCA Presbyterian Pastor: Dr. Jay Joye WT: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Children’s, Youth, Choir, And Adult Growth Groups

36117 - Montgomery Christchurch ad on page 3

8800 Vaughn Rd, (334) 387-0566 Website: www.christchurchanglican.net You Tube Channel: Christchurch Anglican DN: Anglican Pastor: Rev. Andrew M. Rowell WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m., Holy Eucharist Rite II WS: Traditional AT: 400-800 MIN: Adult, Small Groups, Outreach, Celebrate Recovery!, Wednesday Night supper and programs for all ages, Older Adults, Young Adults, Men’s, Women’s, Parish Life, Music, Youth, Parish Life, Pastoral Care, Children’s, Puppet Ministry, Nursery, Stewardship. Eastern Meadows Church of Christ 8464 Vaughn Rd, (334) 273.0001 Website: www.easternmeadows.org

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River Region Christians

Passion Church 6825 Waresferry Road, (334) 271.3800 Web: www.mypassion.church DN: Inter-denominational Senior Pastor: Steve Vickers Lead Pastor: Dr. Norris Braswell WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Life Groups, Volunteer Teams, Passion Works, Teens and Kids

DN: Church of Christ Minister: Steve Housley WT: Sundays, 10 a.m., Sunday night, 5:00p.m. and Wednesday at 6:30 WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Youth, College, Young Adult, Senior, Mens, Women’s, Educational, and Missions Eastern Oaks Baptist Church 7505 Waresferry Road, 396.9811 Website: www.easternoaks.org DN: Baptist Minister: Dr. Daniel Gillenwater WT: Sundays, 10:30 a.m. and Wednesday at 6:30 WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Small Groups, Youth, Children and Missions

Frazer Church ad on page 9

6000 Atlanta Highway, (334) 272.8622 Web: www.frazerumc.org DN: Free Methodist Pastor: Dr. Chris Montgomery WT: Sunday, 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m. WS: Multiple Styles Offered AT: Over 1500 OL: Chinese and Spanish services. American Sign Language and Korean interpreters available MIN: Children, Students, Singles, Men, Women, Adult Sunday School and Life Groups, Older Adults, Hispanic, Chinese, Music, Recreation, Community and World Missions, Stephen Ministry, Support Groups, Counseling Clinic, Financial Peace, Marriage and Parenting, TV, and many more.

Frazer Church Hispanic Congregation (Meets in North Gym) ad on page 9

6000 Atlanta Hwy., (334) 495-6414 www.Frazerumc.org DN: Free Methodist Pastor: Mario Aman WT: Sunday, 10:00 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: 150-400 MIN: Nursery and Children, Please check the website for all Ministries. Fresh Anointing International Church 6000 Monticello Drive, (334) 613.3363 Web: www.anointedchurch.org DN: Independent Pastor: Kyle Searcy WT: Sunday, 9:00 and 11 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 800-1500 MIN: Singles, Nursing Home, Prison, Children’s, College, Drama, Angel Food, Marital Counseling, Intercession, Fresh Start Christian Academy, KCS Ministries

GracePointe 1565 Ray Thorington Road, (334) 271.2525 Web: www.grace-pointe.com DN: Church of Christ Pastor: Scotty Harris WT: Sunday, 10 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 150-400 MIN: Children’s, GPS, Life Groups, Women of Grace, and Men of Grace, Prayer Ministry Grace Presbyterian Church 5 Bell Road, (334) 272.4930 Web: www.discovergrace.org DN: Evangelical Presbyterian Pastor: Bill Thompson WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: Under 150 MIN: Children’s, Community Groups, Journey Groups, Creative Arts Camp, Baseball Ministry, Discipleship for all ages and Outreach Harvest Family Church 7245 Copperfield Drive, (334) 277.1156 Web: www.harvestfamilychurch.com DN: Non-Denominational Pastor: Bill McNeese WT: Sunday, 10 a.m.; Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 150-400 MIN: Children, Youth, Women and Men’s. Lakeview Baptist Church 9225 Atlanta Highway, (334) 213-3080 Web: www.lakeviewbaptistchurch.cc DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Rev. Paul Hubbard WT: Sunday, 10:45 am. WS: Blended AT: Under 150 MIN: Children’s, College and Career, Seniors, Women’s, Music, Student, and Young married. Landmark Church of Christ 1800 Halcyon Boulevard, (334) 277-5800 Web: www.landmarkchurch.net DN: Church of Christ Pastor: Buddy Bell WT: Sunday, 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 800 to 1500 MIN: Children, Youth, College, Recovery, Inner City, Life Groups, Missions, and Life Center Legacy Church 2323 Bell Road, 334-396-2001 Web: www.thelegacychurch.org Pastor: Rev. Doug McCurry DN: Anglican WT: Sundays, 10 a.m.; Wednesday, 6 p.m. WS: Contemporary AT: Under 150 MIN: Men’s, Women’s and Children’s

Providence Presbyterian 2130 Bell Road, (334) 274.1018 Web: www.providencepres.life DN: Presbyterian Pastor: Rev. Nan Adams WT: Sunday, 11:00 a.m. WS: Traditional AT: under 150 MIN: Daycare, Women’s, Youth, Adults, Seniors, Food Ministry, Music, and Children’s St. James United Methodist Church 9045 Vaughn Road, (334) 277.3037 Web: www.sjlife.com DN: United Methodist Pastor: Lester Spencer WT: Sunday, 10 (Contemporary), 11 a.m. (Traditional) WS: Traditional & Contemporary AT: 800-1500 MIN: Recreation, Prayer, Recovery, SJ Kids, Preschool, College, Men, Women and Seniors. Taylor Road Baptist Church 1685 Taylor Road, (334) 271.3363 Web: www.taylorroad.org DN: Southern Baptist Pastor: Daniel Atkins WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. WS: Blended AT: 400-800 MIN: AWANAS, Children’s Missions, Home Groups, Preschool & Children’s Choirs, Youth & Adult Choirs, Sunday School, Discipleship Training, Women’s, Youth and Adult Bible Study, Mothers Morning Out and Kindergarten. Thorington Road Baptist Church 450 Ray Thorington Road, (334) 396.9376 Email: contact through website Web: www.trbaptist.org Pastor: Michael Trull DN: Baptist WT: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. and Wed. at 6:25 WS: Blended AT: 150 to 400 MIN: Nursery, Pre-School, Children, Student, Men’s, Women’s and VBS Vaughn Forest Baptist Church 8660 Vaughn Road, (334) 279.5433 Web: www.vaughnforest.com Pastor: Adam Bishop DN: Southern Baptist WT: Sunday, 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. WS: Contemporary AT: 800 to 1500 OL: Spanish and Korean MIN: Small Groups, Preschool, Student, Singles, Older Adults, Worship, and Hispanic

If your church was not listed in this year’s church directory, please email deanne@readjourneymagazine.com or call 334.213.7940. We’ll be sure to add you in future Church Directory issues.

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Beginning, Continuing and Ending Well Life is a journey, isn’t it? I have a “BC” – a life Before Christ. Sometimes I may relegate my past as a total waste compared to the Christian life I am leading now. But how does God look at my time before I met Jesus personally? Yes, I was not a model person. I did sin and often did not feel remorse over many of my poor choices. Yet there are ways that God was at work. I remember working hard to please my parents and teachers. God was teaching me to give my all to my tasks. Colossians 3:23 says, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men.” But even when I was walking opposite of God’s purposes, He used the consequences of my actions as lessons to draw me to want something better… Someone better…to help me avoid these pitfalls in the future. You probably can relate in some fashion with your life before Christ. You may have not been as bad as I was, or maybe you have been worse…but God had you in His sights. Matthew 5:45 reminds us, “That ye may be the children of your father that is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to arise on the evil and the good, and sendeth rain on the just and unjust.” Now we have met the Lord Jesus and are trying to be faithful, obedient saints. Each of us has a set of roles to

play within our current lives. These roles are placed in different circumstances and situations. For example, one of my roles is a pastor. This role is centered in our church in Montgomery, but also as one who teaches and counsels women in different parts of the world. It can feel ominous to have such a role with its responsibilities, but God promises His grace will abound if I but walk in obedience to His call. Are you overwhelmed in one of your roles? Does something seem bigger than your talents, education, or experience? Remember that God has called you to take every weakness and shove (yes, shove!) them on His shoulders so He can show Himself strong. God knows how you feel, He said to Apostle Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’” (2 Corinthians 12:9). This attitude works! As many of the roles I have can seem to compete for my time, energy, and money, I have learned to not let them control me, but allow God to direct what I must give my attention to right now. To find out what He says, I do what Susannah Wesley did when she needed to pray. With her ten noisy children around her, she threw her apron over her head and prayed. My apron is 23

my prayer closet. Running there brings direction and peace. Do you feel you don’t have time to spend before the Lord because of your stress? How dare you let these earthly cares have such power over you! The Lord can take your burden, but you must give it to Him. You can’t afford not to spend the time to get His direction. It will cost you more time, energy and money to meet your obligations than not to take the time to seek Him. Then, there is the future. I want to end well. I may want to retire from certain jobs or roles that I have now, but I don’t want to retire from life. How will you continue to hear God’s choices for you when you are not able to do what you have always done? Remember God’s creativity is endless. He has some incredible ways of making way for powerful ministry even if you are in a wheelchair. I know a shut-in who sends little notes to kids to encourage them. Another makes extra servings of what she is eating to send to other people’s homes. I expect to be one of God’s ministers until the day I die. What is your expectation? Whether before Christ, in the present, or in the future. God has the best strategy for you. He said, “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11) I believe God looks for someone who is teachable and obedient; then He explodes His grace into that person’s life without merit. Are you that kind of person as you work out your salvation today? Will you continue the journey in the future being teachable and obedient? If you do, there is only one outcome…a life lived well. Live well, woman of God! July 2022

River Region Christians

A Winsome Strategy? There has been some rhetorical debate centered on social media regarding the use of the word, “winsome.” Dictionary.com gives this definition: “sweetly or innocently charming; winning; engaging...” I believe it’s been said that if you are “winsome,” then, in the Christian sense, you could “win some” to Jesus. In an article by First Things associate editor James R. Wood, he addresses our approach in a culture that has moved from neutral toward Christianity to negative. He references the contention of Aaron Renn of American Reformer: There was a “neutral world” roughly between 1994–2014 in which traditional Christianity was neither broadly supported nor opposed by the surrounding culture, but rather was viewed as an eccentric lifestyle option among many. However, that time is over. Now we live in the “negative world,” in which, according to Renn, Christian morality is expressly repudiated and traditional Christian views are perceived as undermining the social good. Wood contends: “...the ‘negative world’ is a different place. Tough choices are increasingly before us, offense is unavoidable, and sides will need to be taken on very important issues.” He goes on to say: “If we assume that winsomeness will gain a favorable hearing, when Christians consistently receive heated pushback, we will be tempted to think our convictions are the problem,” adding, “An excessive concern to appeal to the unchurched is plagued by the accommodationist temptation.” Rod Dreher, writing at The American Conservative, sheds some light on the Renn timeline, saying that the era before 1994 could be described as “positive world.” He writes:

I have described America as a “postChristian nation,” meaning not that there are no Christians, but that Christianity is River Region Christians

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no longer the story that most Americans regard as explaining who we are. You might think that’s great, you might think that’s terrible, but it’s simply true. Dreher and Wood seem to be advocating for a new understanding of the world we live in and a bolder strategy to reach an increasingly hostile world. Dreher adds: “The moment for Christians to love our enemies and pray for them will never pass, this is true. But the idea that they will embrace us, or even tolerate us, if we just be sweet is no longer viable.” But he states, “I don’t advocate at all hating our enemies.” He warns:

The Journey Church near Nashville: The overly winsome, tip-toe approach some of our evangelical thought leaders take on secular ideologies like abortion, gender, and sexuality forgets the enormous number of Christians facing pressures to conform. Their silence and lack of clarity isn’t helping those people at all.

Winsome World Christians are failing to prepare themselves, their families, and (if pastors) their flocks for the world that exists today, and the world that is fast coming into being. Again, I am thinking of the pastor I argued with who believed that he didn’t need to speak about gender ideology to his parish (“I don’t want politics in my congregation”) because, as he explained, if he just keeps winsomely teaching Biblical principles, all will be well. I am certain that man believed he was taking a virtuous stand against fearmongers and alarmists like Dreher. I think it was cowardice.

Reed adds: “With a church of 1500+ ppl, our staff/elders can’t afford to ignore the realities our kids, students, college kids, and adults face each day. Secular progressive ideology is the air they breathe in this culture... They’re not helped if we are silent or ambiguous on these issues.” That is a powerful image and can lead to this question: What air are you breathing? Are we breathing in the toxic air of the world and the culture that can pollute our souls, or the “fresh air” of the wind of the Holy Spirit? We can also consider if we are boldly standing on truth or if our lives are reflecting compromise. There is talk of a “third way” on issues that the Bible speaks clearly to, in order to be more appealing to the world. While Jesus calls us to reach the world, He doesn’t direct us to appeal to it by watering down the gospel. Scripture speaks to a host of issues directly through proclamation or indirectly through principle. We can adhere to truth and maintain a Christ-like spirit. Podcast host Josh Daws tweeted:

Dreher warns, in bold letters: “American Christians have to learn how to endure persecution without capitulating to apostasy or to hatred.” Here’s a quote from Twitter from recent Meeting House guest Erik Reed of Knowing Jesus Ministries and pastor of

We need to distinguish between winsomeness as a strategy and winsomeness as a demeanor. Winsome strategy seeks to engineer a response from those we’re trying to win. Whereas a winsome demeanor is focused on Christ-like interactions rooted in truth regardless of the response.

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River Region Christians

Thinking About Depression Back to the Basics

Once we are at a mental state where we can function properly (either with or without medication), what are some of the steps we can take to “move forward” and combat depression in our lives? As previously mentioned, depression can be caused by emotional, physical, spiritual, and other factors. A good place to start is to do an inventory of how healthy we are inwardly. The following list contains some questions we can ask ourselves to begin the process.

Emotional In today’s society, the number of people facing anxiety and depression is growing, compared to that of previous generations. Even though many people fear the stigma that comes with using antidepressants, their use is increasing, even among the Christian community. While many reasons can be attributed to this rise in use of anti-depressants, I would like to focus instead on some thoughts about depression itself and what we can do to combat it in our lives. In reality, depression is a combination of genetics, emotional well-being, spiritual life, physical activity, past trauma and other factors. While some people focus on the genetics and I was “born this way” (and there might be some truth to this), there is often a lack of focus on the things we can control. Some believe that using anti-depressants should be the “magical pill” that solves and ends most of their problems. Antidepressants, when used as a resource to get us to a mental state where we can function properly, are just the beginning of our healing. And then the real work begins. A good analogy I once heard stated, “anti-depressants are shoes I put on that allow me to walk; now that I have put on the shoes, it is my responsibility to move forward.” River Region Christians

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• Is there an underlying addiction that I might be unaware of? • Are there resentments and anger I am holding on to which are festering? • Am I surrounding myself with people who encourage me, or are my close relationships a negative burden? • Do I constantly blame others for my problems?

Spiritual

• Am I taking time daily to connect with God through prayer, meditation, and scripture reading? • Do I have fellow believers with whom I am close and on whom I can lean in difficult times? • Is there someone in my life who knows everything about me, someone I can confess to, even my worst parts? • Am I confessing my sins to God and to another human being regularly? • Have I identified major character flaws in my life that I need to allow God to come into my life and work on? (ex: pride, ego, self-reliance, envy, jealousy, etc.) • Am I allowing fears to creep in and unknowing dictate my life?

Physical

• Am I getting enough sleep daily? 26

• Am I taking one day off in the week to relax? (ex: the Sabbath) • How are my eating habits? Am I feeding myself a healthy, well-balanced diet? • Is there physical exercise in my life? (ex: weight lifting, running, biking, walking, etc.) • Am I taking time during the day to slow down physically and rest? • Am I consuming excess alcohol or caffeine which can lead to mood swings? While the above list is not at all exhaustive, it is a good place to start. One of the great things about 12step programs is that they address many of these issues head on, specifically in emotional and spiritual areas. Addicts who have gone through a 12-step program began either completely devasted or pretty close to it because of their addiction, which obviously would have had them in a very depressive state. Many churches now provide “small groups” which mimic in many ways what 12-step programs offer – community, deep dives into our lives, accountability, less reliance on ourselves, and more reliance on others and God. While there are many factors for depression, let us focus on the parts we can control. What in your life can you begin to take steps to “move forward” to help combat depression and live a happy, abundant life? Today is a great day to start! *Suggested reading – “12 Christian Beliefs That Can Drive You Crazy” Dr. Cloud & Dr. Townsend

Dr. Jessica Gibbe Fernandez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Alabama. She is a Certified Sex Therapist, a Clinical Fellow of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and an Approved Supervisor for the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Jessica’s clinical interests include marriage and couples therapy, healthy relationships, and family therapy. She sees adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem and personal growth issues, life transitions, gender issues (LGBTQ+), sexuality issues, family adjustment and acculturation.

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River Region Christians

It’s Really About Giving and Putting Others First

Q. My wife and I have always attended

church, and we have always tithed. Over the last few months, we have come to the decision it is time for us to find a place to worship that is a little more involved in the community. If we are actively looking for a new church, should we continue to tithe to our current church? Would giving our tithe money to a charity be better? We both agree it feels strange to continue giving to our current church when we would rather be somewhere else.

A. There’s nothing wrong with continu-

ing to tithe to your current place of worship until you find a new church home. It would probably be alright, too, if you gave your tithe to one of the places you visit while you’re looking. When it comes right down to it, it’s all about learning to be a giver and putting others first.

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I can tell you two are taking this situation very seriously. But I mean, it’s not like He needs the money, you know? Tithing isn’t about making a deposit into God’s bank account, or building up spiritual brownie points. It isn’t a salvation issue, either. It’s all about changing our hearts and our minds. It’s about being a little less selfish, and a little more Christ-like. I believe it makes God smile when we put other people’s needs ahead of our own wants. There are some pretty strong indications in scripture that a tithe—which is a tenth of your income—should go to your

local church. I have no problem with giving to responsible charitable organizations, too, but when it comes to tithing, I’m not sure a generic charity is the answer. My wife and I have had times in our lives when we changed churches, and in the periods when we didn’t have a home church, we’d write out the checks just like normal, but leave the “pay to the order of” portion blank. That way, the money was already accounted for in our minds and in our checkbook. Then, when we found a place that really spoke to us, we’d complete the checks and give them to that church. I hope this helps a little and God bless you two!

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