River Region's Journey December 2019

I wish I could see the board instead of trying to read through your vape cloud.

- Sarah, 8th Grade

For more information visit AlabamaHealthyTeens.com

Volume 21, Issue 9

Feature Articles

DECEMBER 2 0 1 9 Columns page 2

Publisher’s Note

page 12

Faith @ Work: Tracy Holley

Jason Watson

Meet Tracy Holley as she shares her journey of faith from childhood through her rebellious 20s, and how God never stopped pursuing her.

She also explains what keeps her connected to God in order to live out her faith in every area of life.

Jerimiah Zeigler, Destiny Word Christian Center

page 4

Pastor's Perspective page 10

Pondering the Journey Sam Whatley

page 14

The Intersection

page 16

Bob Crittenden

Ministry Spotlight:

SKIP--Serving Kids of Incarcerated Parents

page 20

Women Arising Pastor Kemi Searcy

by Katie Blair

page 26

Children of incarcerated parents face many challenges, and having positive influences in their lives is crucial. Gloria Jean Williams is passionate about helping these kids through this wonderful local ministry.

Counselor’s Corner Deborah Cowell, LMFT

page 32

Dave $ays Dave Ramsey

page 22

5 Things to Teach Your Children This Christmas

by Christina Fox

With the commercialization of the holiday season, it can be a challenge for kids to understand and appreciate the true reason for the season. You’ll find five important lessons to incorporate into your family’s Christmas this year.

In Every Issue page 6

Books to Read page 8

Around Our Community page 12

page 24

Faith @ Work

Christmas Planning Guide

page 28

Local churches offer a variety of opportunities for your family to celebrate the true Reason for the Season.

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Support Groups December 2019

River Region’s Journey

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

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@readjourneymagazine.com

Publisher

Jason Watson jason@readjourneymagazine.com

Associate Publisher Gena Hill

Research Editor Wendy McCollum

Contributing Writers Katie Blair Deborah Cowell, LMFT Bob Crittenden Christina Fox Dave Ramsey Kemi Searcy Dr. David Steele Sam Whatley Jerimiah Zeigler

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

Digital Manager Scott Davis

Ad Design

Tim Welch, Welch Designs

Distribution Manager Charles Silliman

River Region’s Journey is published monthly by Keep Sharing, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123.

For information, call 334-213-7940. River Region’s Journey is copyrighted 2019 by KeepSharing. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

The opinions expressed in River Region’s Journey 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’s Journey has the right to refuse any content that is not consistent with its statement of faith.

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1st Sunday of Advent 2nd Sunday of Advent 3rd Sunday of Advent 4th Sunday of Advent Christmas Eve Christmas Day

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Pastor’s Perspective

by Jerimiah Zeigler, Destiny Word Christian Center

Family: God’s Ideal Family originated with God and not man. The Bible says in the beginning God created man and woman, gave them instruction to be fruitful and increase (Genesis 1:28). This was the beginning of families. A family is a man and woman producing offspring dwelling in the same house or area.

The word family comes from the root word famulus, which is of Latin origin.

The first meaning in English was close to our modern word household—a group of individuals living under one roof that include blood relations and servants.

(Worldwide Words).

God’s ideal was and still is to have righteous parents producing and raising children who follow in the parents’ footsteps. Also, in ancient times, servants were considered part of the family because they were under the same house-

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hold. So, family can stretch beyond blood line and ancestry. I believe a family can be all who have and share interest in the same mutual love one for the other. This way family can extend beyond race, ethnic group, background and culture.

The Bible teaches in 1 Timothy 5:1-2, Rebuke not an elder but entreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren; The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity. I know this teaching was to the church by the Apostle Paul under the guiding of the Holy Spirit. Let’s imagine that this teaching is being taught in all walks of society. It would eliminate many of society’s problems.

When society is filled with healthy family groups that are spreading love and togetherness, which are the backbone of the family unit, you will see some of the ills of society disappear. Healthy families produce support, love, and caring for other family members, providing security and a sense of belonging, open communication...making each person in the family feel important, valued, respected, and esteemed. (Normal Functioning Family- Healthy Children. org) Healthy, nurturing families with godly values can extend these values to society and can affect generations for many years. The values learned in family should be demonstrated in our everyday life as we encounter others.

The family is where our training 4

starts. This is where we learn love, support, protection, security, importance, etc.

The Bible says we are to train up a child in the way he or she should go, and when they are old they will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6). This says to me that when a child is trained properly at home, that training can and will carry them through life.

When I was growing up in the 60s and 70s, my father and mother instilled in me what was appropriate and inappropriate behavior. It was expected of me to act the same way in public as I acted at home. Things I was taught were considered to be moral values, such as how to address adults in a respectable manner, how to interact with others, to share, when to talk and when to be silent, and to obey the rules that were given because they were given for a reason.

When I was growing up, these values were reinforced in church and in school.

Now it seems these values I was taught are in the distant past. Not that some parents are not teaching their children moral values, but I don’t see as much importance placed on moral values as in years passed.

Let me just say this, I believe as the family goes so does society. When there are appropriate values taught in the family unit and reinforced through other institutions in society, love, respect, support, open communication, sharing, and caring for others will be the standard.

When families produce healthy standards, these same healthy standards can be reproduced in all walks of society, thus solving many of the problems of society, by changing the behavior of society.

Jerimiah Zeigler is pastor of Destiny Word Christian Center, 511 Oliver Road, in Montgomery. You may reach him at destinywordcc@gmail.com.

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One Fam

Emblems of the Infinite King

Reenchanting Humanity

J. Ryan Lister (2019)

Owen Strachan (2019)

From time to time, I enjoy a good children’s book. There’s something about taking a break from my usual theologically robust reading schedule and immersing myself into a book designed to inspire and educate kids. J. Ryan Lister’s book is targeted to pre-teens and teens but I won’t be shelving this book with other notable children’s books by C.S. Lewis and Douglas Bond. Emblems of the Infinite King: Enter the Knowledge of the Living God will be strategically placed in my section devoted to biblical theology.

Emblems of the Infinite King invites young readers into God’s redemptive drama and presents the definitive pillars of the Christian worldview – creation, fall, redemption, and consummation in a compelling story. A brief note about the underlying story that undergirds the book. One reviewer questioned the validity of the imaginative elements of Emblems of the Infinite King. This critique is perplexing, especially in light of the stunning efforts of C.S. Lewis (The Chronicles of Narnia) and J.R. Tolkien (The Lord of the Rings). One of the great needs in the church is a Christsaturated imagination which is theologically robust and Reformed, one that captures the heart and makes the human spirit soar. Tragically, much theological writing is aimed squarely at the mind but bypasses the heart altogether. Emblems of the Infinite King strikes a biblical balance that celebrates orthodoxy but also warms the heart with imaginative prose and a compelling story.

Make no mistake – this is a serious book. And serious books have life-changing implications. The author writes clearly and creatively. But even more important, he writes with biblical precision.

It is obvious that Lister has thought through each turn in the story and has a passion to either introduce readers to the King or help strengthen their relationship with him.

2019 has been a great year for Christian publishing. Of the 170 books that I’ve read this year, this is among the best of them!

Emblems of the Infinite King is a modern-day Pilgrim’s Progress that is sure to encourage many young people and will be a strategic tool for parents and grandparents to help disciple children for God’s glory.

Reenchanting Humanity: A Theology of Mankind is a book that is desperately needed by the church in our day. Many in the church have lost their bearings (some appear to have lost their minds). The journey to the Celestial City has been sidetracked by compromise, theological error, and political correctness.

Instead of sailing to our heavenly home with biblical fidelity, scores of people have surrendered their oars and are dog-paddling in a different direction. Rather than affirming what the Scripture affirms about mankind, they embrace the ideology of the zeitgeist. Instead of tethering their view of mankind to Christ, they cling to the flimsy and flawed view of culture.

Reenchanting Humanity is a theological antidote to the rampant compromise which is currently polluting the church and corroding the pillars of the Christian mind. But Reenchanting Humanity is more than an antidote. It is more than a defensive reaction to the godless ideology that infects the church. Rather, it is an offensive biblical bombshell that destroys error and bolsters the Christian worldview.

Dr. Strachan’s goal is achieved in the space of 418 pages. He anchors this tour in anthropology by demonstrating that creatures are made in the imago Dei. In other words, we have been created by God – for his glory. As such we have intrinsic value.

Reenchanting Humanity is clear, consistent, compelling, comprehensive, and countercultural. These important attributes will likely make the book vulnerable to criticism and mark out the book as a target for detractors. But readers who maintain their allegiance to Scripture will appreciate Strachan’s approach, which is relentlessly biblical and faithful to the truth.

Quite frankly, I found this book enthralling. Strachan never backs away from controversy and he is unafraid of telling the truth about the condition of mankind. But the book concludes with a majestic crescendo as the author guides readers to the Lord Jesus Christ and the story of the second Adam: “Truly, he is the new humanity, and he is leading a new exodus to the new heavens and the new earth. He is the salvation and ontological restoration we so desperately need; his new covenant blood washes us clean, makes us new creations, and gives us new names.”

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Extraordinary Academics. Extraordinary Arts.

Extraordinary Athletics. Extraordinary Faculty.

All to the Glory of God. Accredited K3 through 12th Grade Independent College-Preparatory School Trinity School is Montgomery’s foremost educational institution providing students the highest quality college-preparatory education, training them in the biblical world and life view, enabling them to serve God in spirit, mind, and body. Trinity offers a rigorous academic program, award-winning fine arts program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. The Trinity Experience is extraordinary in every way—an education that is as unique as your child.

If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact Director of Admission Jenny McClinton at 334.213.2213 or jmcclinton@trinitywildcats.com.

Tuition assistance is available. Discount offered to our military families.

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PROSPECTIVE FAMILIES ARE INVITED TO JOIN US FOR THESE SPECIAL EVENTS

GRAND STORY HOUR: Prospective K3, K4, K5 Students, Parents or Grandparents December 6, 2019 at 1:30 PM

K3-K5 OPEN HOUSE: Prospective Parents of K3, K4, K5 Students January 23, 2020 at 6:00 PM

One World. One School. One Family.

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River Region’s Journey

Surviving the Holidays Seminar

David’s Tent Alabama

100 Hours of Nonstop Worship Wednesday, December 11th @ 4:00pm until Sunday, December 15th @ 8:00pm Local teams as well as others from across the state of Alabama will rotate in 1-2 hour shifts leading us in 50 nonstop hours of worship underneath a large wedding tent.

Though the platform is only for worship, individual and/or small group prayer is strongly encouraged, and there are resources to help facilitate that. Evangelism is spontaneous as people encounter the Lord’s heart towards them.

There is also a large Bible for public reading. Seating is provided underneath the tent, but lawn chairs are highly recommended.

Visit www.davidstentalabama.org.

Wondering how you will survive the weeks surrounding Christmas? Are you dreading the holiday, feeling like everything has changed?

Our Surviving the Holidays seminar on December 11th at 6pm is especially for people who are grieving a loved one’s death. At this seminar you will learn ways to deal with the many emotions you’ll face during the holidays and help in discovering hope for your future.

The group is open to everyone and will be at 6pm in the church parlor at FUMC Prattville, 100 E 4th Street.

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Christchurch Candlelit Service of Lessons and Carols

The Living Christmas Tree at First Baptist Montgomery

8800 Vaughn Rd Thursday, December 5, 6:30 p.m.

Featuring Madrigal Voices of Montgomery, Montgomery Brassworks, and conductor Thomas Hinds. For information call (334) 387.0566, ext. 203 or visit www.christchurchxp.net.

December 13-15. Performers will delight you atop the 40 ft. set resembling a Christmas tree on stage.

Visit montgomeryfbc.org for tickets.

Frazer’s Christmas Musical: Glorious Carols of Christmas

Saint James UMC’s Christmas Musical

6000 Atlanta Highway. Wesley Hall, December 8 at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Glorious arrangements of classical Holiday Hymns to Classic Carols for the whole family to sing along with.

9045 Vaughn Road December 8 at 6 p.m. in the Worship Center. The service will feature the Chancel Choir. We hope you can join us for this marvelous musical event.

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Do You “Fit In” at Church?

I wonder if the reason some folks show up at church only at Christmas or Easter is that they feel they just don’t fit in. Perhaps their age, marital status, or denominational background makes them feel awkward in a certain congregation.

But that logic works both ways. If you seldom join together with the Body of Christ, how will you ever fit in? It reminds me of something I witnessed in Egypt many years ago.

One morning in May, 1981, I awoke in a new hotel in Karnak, Egypt, to the repetitive tapping sound of steel against stone. It was coming from outside my window. Being the off season, only fifty of

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us were staying in a hotel built for five hundred. The place was practically deserted.

Perhaps that was why no one seemed to care whether guests were annoyed by this pounding and chipping so early in the morning.

When my curiosity overcame my tolerance for noise, I walked downstairs and went out on the patio to investigate. The steady clinking sound was located at the end of a partially paved walkway extending between the patio and the edge of the Nile. A shriveled old man sat with a rock in one hand and a pointed hammer in the other. He turned the stone this way and that, chipped away, and examined it again.

Finally, he fit the finished object in place with the adjacent paver, forming an interlocking pattern of rock.

I sat on the patio chair and watched him for some time.

He ignored me. He was meticulous and absorbed in his craft.

Once he had a stone in place, he pulled another from a wheel barrow, and started again. Behind him, about a third of the walkway had been completed. Each stone was unique, but all of them fit exactly into the design of this little sculptor.

Then I noticed that the patio, itself, was made of this same kind of rock in this same pattern. He had built it all by hand without power tools. His work was slow, but the results were impressive.

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We who follow Christ are like those stones. No two of us are identical, but we each have our place in the Body of Christ.

We are being fit together by God’s design.

He chose us when we were flawed and oddly shaped, just as this mason chose his stones from the wheel barrow.

This building method of one-rock-ata-time was common in Jesus’ day. The Apostle Peter refers to it in his first letter: “As you come to him, the living Stone – rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him – you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ,” (1 Peter 2:4-5) NIV. We were not meant to serve God by ourselves. God gives us gifts and talents to help us build upon one another for His glory. We each have a special place in relation to other members of the Body. As the writer of Hebrews expressed it: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching,” (Hebrews 10:24-25) NIV. We do not come to Christ looking beautiful, with all of our bad habits and selfish attitudes already chipped away.

Our Heavenly Father, the master mason, knocks them off slowly. He has a pointed hammer to chisel away the hard surfaces that keep us from fitting in the place He has designed for us.

Rather than seek a church based on its music or how that congregation can serve us, let’s follow the Lord’s leading and go faithfully to the one of His choosing. The Lord’s design is not centered on us. But He has called us to fit together like interlocking stones to build His Church.

He has reserved a place for each of us this Christmas and every week. By coming together and fitting together, we will lead others to Emmanuel.

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Co Ih An bu lat by fro

RRJ: Thank you for sharing your story of faith, Tracy. When did your Christian walk first begin?

Tracy: My mother took my sisters and me to Sunday School and church from the time we were small. As I learned more about Jesus, He helped me to know Him more, and to realize more and more my own sin and my need for Him to forgive my sins. I don’t remember the exact date, but when I was about 9 or 10, I remember walking down the aisle during the altar call in our small country church, as a public profession that I wanted Jesus to be the Lord of my life.

RRJ: The believing mother has a wealth of resources available to train, discipline, and love her children in the grace of God. What are some ways your mother helped you recognize your need for Jesus?

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Tracy: Most importantly, she prayed for me. Every day. And she made sure to tell me that, over and over again throughout my life. Another of the biggest ways my mother helped show me my need for Jesus was by being humble and transparent enough to show me her need for, and dependence upon, Jesus. I think sometimes, as mothers (myself included), we think that setting an example of faith for our children means we have to appear that we’ve got it all together... that we do everything right, all of the time. And, of course, we can’t. I learned from my mother that children want and need to see what faith looks like in the times that we fail, as well as when we succeed... in the day to day ordinary stuff that makes up our lives. My mother lived her daily life in such a humble, authentic way, with such meekness and quiet strength... in her job and in the way she served her family and others.

I’ve been blessed to say I know what a Christian wife, mother and worker should look like in every season of a woman’s life, because I saw my mother’s example throughout her life... as a wife and mother of young children, through raising teenagers, transitioning to adult children, and later her example as a wife caring for an ailing spouse. I often fall short of that mark, but she taught me that walking with Christ is not about my strength or perfection. It’s about His. RRJ: Anything of eternal value in this life and in eternity comes through the work of the Holy Spirit in us. Tell us about the Holy Spirit pursuing you.

Tracy: As I moved into my late teens, and eventually left home, I went through a period of rebellion that lasted throughout my twenties and even into the early years of marriage... just plain old ugly sin! For many years during that time, my husband (who had accepted Christ as a teenager) and I were both unchurched and living lives outside of what we both knew was God’s will. But God was so gracious to us.

He just would not leave us there. The Holy Spirit kept pursuing our hearts, drawing us back to Him, step by step. Making us un12

comfortable in our sin. Making that yearning He placed in our hearts for Him grow stronger and stronger. We were living in Hattiesburg, Mississippi at the time, and the Holy Spirit drew us to a church there.

He drew us to a couples Sunday School class when a neighbor invited us. We began to grow in our faith there. I am so grateful that Christ doesn’t give up on us.

RRJ: After several years of working in radio, newspaper, and television, you decided to take a “step of faith” and begin your own consulting business. How has God blessed you in your endeavor?

Tracy: After more than 25 years of working in various aspects of the advertising and marketing industry, and after MUCH prayer, my husband and I felt God was leading me to start my own agency and consulting business. In 2006, I resigned from a media job where I was making more than I had ever made in my life, and started Holley Marketing Consultants with two clients. I cannot even describe all the ways God has amazed us with His blessing and provision over the past 14 years of this journey. It is so humbling to see Him work. I ask God to guide me in the business He would have for me, and give me wisdom in the decisions and recommendations I make for my clients. I ask Him to bless my clients, their families, and their businesses according to His will, and to help me to do the work He’s given me in such a way as to honor & glorify Him. Nothing I have is mine, including this business. It’s all His. So I trust Him to do with it as He pleases.

RRJ: In your walk with the Lord, what are some tools and/or resources that are vital in keeping your faith strong?

Tracy: I have to read my Bible. I’ve learned I can’t do life well otherwise. I have to be a part of a church family and make that a priority. I’m blessed to be a part of a church family that listens to the Holy Spirit. One of my favorite scriptures is, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’” (2

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Cor. 12:9) I KNOW I’m weak, so I know I have to trust in Christ’s perfect power.

Another tool God has used in my life and business has been the ministry of the late Larry Burkett. His book, “Business by the Book,” was an influence on me from the time I started my business.

RRJ: The Christmas season can be an overly hectic time of year, especially for you in the work you do. How do you prepare yourself for the celebration of our Savior’s birth?

Tracy: The 4th quarter of the year can be one of the busiest in my line of business.

I have to make a conscious effort to not lose focus on the reason for the season in the midst of all the tasks to be done this time of year. Re-reading the story of Christ’s birth, thinking about how God had the angels announce Jesus’ birth to ordinary shepherds (while they were at work!) reminds me again that everything I do, work-related included, means nothing without Him. Most recently, God has been teaching me to have a more thankful heart.

When I make it a practice to be thankful, He focuses my attention on what matters most. I’m still learning.

RRJ: Share your favorite Christmas traditions you have with your family.

Tracy: There are two particular traditions that are kind of “bookends” of the Christmas season for our family. One of the traditions we love occurs usually around the first week of December. Several churches in our area work together each year to present an outdoor live nativity “walkthrough” called “An Eclectic Christmas,” sharing the story of Christ’s birth. There are Roman soldiers on live horses, families traveling the road to Bethlehem for the census, shepherds, angels, wise men, merchants in the streets of Bethlehem, all leading to the manger. No matter how many times we’ve gone, it still moves me, and helps settle our hearts for celebrating the real reason for Christmas.

The “bookend” of that tradition for us is attending our church’s Christmas Eve Communion service with family and friends, and then gathering back at our house afterward with many of those same family and friends for a casual Christmas Eve meal and fellowship.

struggle to live their faith beyond the church walls, what encouragement would you give them?

Tracy: Years ago, I heard Chip Kirk, a missionary who has visited our church often, speak on the passage from John 15 about Jesus as the vine. He shared Jesus’ words from John 15:4, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” Then Chip gave a definition of the word, “abide,” that has stuck with me: “constantly connected, desperately dependent.” Thinking about that encourages me that I can’t section off parts of my life from Christ. I have to be constantly connected and desperately dependent on Him in my family life, my work life, my relationships with friends, my leisure activities, everything. I have to depend on Him. And more and more, I’m finding there is nothing sweeter.

Tracy Holley is Owner/Founder of Holley Marketing Consultants. She is married to Joey (33 years) and

RRJ: Tracy, you do a great job of living out your faith daily. For Christians who

they have one daughter, Patty (24). The Holleys are members of Eclectic UMC.

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A Christmas Advent-ure: Around the World in 25 Days Recognizing we’re part of the global body of Christ, here are 25 places that can help us think about God’s work around the world. Use one each day in December.

Central & South America:

1) Haiti: Revillon Houses are open all night, and an overnight meal is shared called the Revillon, which is French for “wake up.” JAMES 1:17 2) Mexico: Posadas Children go from house to house and sing songs, recognizing the journey of Mary and Joseph. ROMANS 12:10-13 3) Colombia: Novenas Families visit each other in their homes for singing, praying, and dessert. ACTS 2:42-45 4) Guatemala: Nacimientos “Nacimientos,” or Nativity scenes, are built and usually displayed under the Christmas tree. LUKE 2:13-14 5) Brazil: Los Pastores The name of the Christmas play means, The Shepherds. LUKE 2:15-16

Africa:

6) Nigeria: Christmas Cloth Nigerian children and their parents receive and wear “Christmas cloths.” ROMANS 13:12-14 7) Uganda: Sekukkulu Sekukkulu (“the birth of Jesus”) is centered around church, food, and clothing, with women wearing traditional, colorful attire.

1 CORINTHIANS 12:24b-27 8) Kenya: Practical Gifts Decorations consist of balloons, flowers, and leaves. Practical gifts are shared, such as books or clothes to wear to church.

MATTHEW 7:11 9) Ethiopia: Ganna and Timkat Christmas, or “Ganna” is celebrated on January 7, and Timkat comes 12 days later, commemorating the baptism of Jesus. Children walk to church wearing crowns and robes.

MATTHEW 3:13-17 10) Egypt: Kiahk Kiahk is the month leading up to Christmas on January 7, including a vegan Holy Nativity Fast. Biscuits, called “kahk,” are eaten River Region’s Journey

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to break the fast and given as gifts.

LUKE 2:10-12

Europe:

11) France: St. Nicolas Day Some observe St. Nicolas Day in early December, based on Nicolas, the Bishop of Myra, known for gift-giving (in stockings) and protection. ROMANS 5:15-18 12) Germany: Advent Calendars The Advent Calendar, counting down 24 days until Christmas Eve, features “windows,” behind which were originally small Christmas scenes. Now, chocolates or candy are found behind the windows. ISAIAH 9:6-7 13) Sweden: St. Lucia’s Day On December 13, this honors a young Swedish girl, St. Lucia, a 4th-Century martyr, who is believed to have brought food to persecuted Christians in Rome, wearing candles on her head to free up her hands.

JOHN 8:12 14) Spain: Epiphany Parades Twelve days after Christmas, parades honor the “3 Kings” in the Spanish Epiphany: Gaspar (frankincense), Melchior (gold), and Belshazzar (myrrh). MATTHEW 2:10-11 15) Romania: Colindatul Children sing carols from house to house on Christmas Eve, and receive treats for their performance. Adults go carol singing on Christmas Day. PSALM 96:1-2

Asia:

16) China: Underground Celebration Christians gathering to commemorate the holiday, specifically those in “underground” churches, face difficulty. The South China Morning Post says that, as of last year, officials have “more power to act against churches and impose tougher penalties for ‘unauthorised religious gatherings.’”

EPHESIANS 5:15-19 17) Japan: Couples Celebration Christmas has some similarities with Valentine’s Day in the West. Traditional family gatherings feature Fried Chicken and Christmas Cake. EPHESIANS 5:25-27 18) Philippines: Noche Buena

Family and friends invited to partake in a midnight feast, normally including roasted pig and rice. REVELATION 19:7-9 19) India: Star Lanterns Paper lanterns in the shape of stars are displayed, especially in the province of Goa and the city of Mumbai, where manger scenes are also popular. 2 CORINTHIANS 4:6-7 20) Indonesia: Chicken Feathers In one area, Bali, Christmas trees are made of chicken feathers, which are exported around the world. Fireworks and bamboo cannons are part of Indonesian celebrations.

PHILIPPIANS 4:4-7

Middle East:

21) Lebanon: Nativity Seeds Residents plant a variety of seeds about two weeks before Christmas, including chickpeas, broad beans, lentils, oats and wheat, which grow on damp cotton wool, which are then used to decorate the creche and Christmas tree. EPHESIANS 4:15-16 22) Syria: Ministry to Refugees The organization, Christmas for Refugees, reaches out to refugees in Syria and other nations.

Children receive Christmas meals and are treated to plays and puppet shows, coloring books, and more. LUKE 6:20-21 23) Nineveh Plains (Iraq): Bonfires Assyrian Christians read the Bible, then light bonfires (made of dried thorns) at their homes and churches. 1ST JOHN 1:7 24) Israel : Solitude Some cities in Israel have Christmas decorations, but in Jerusalem, Christians mostly celebrate privately. PSALM 46:10 25) Bethlehem: Celebration In Bethlehem, which is located in the Palestinian area of the so-called West Bank, tourists flock to familiar sites such as Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity.

MATTHEW 2:4-7 Sources: Compassion.com, WhyChristmas.com, SeeColombia. travel, https://sites.google.com/site/thehistoryofchristmas, InAllThings.org, BecauseOfHope.org, iExplore.com, HowStuffWorks.com, WorldHolidayTraditions.com, German-Way.com, WonderfulTime. com, SCMP.com, KidsAreATrip.com, AsiaExchange.org, TheArabWeekly.com, ChristmasForRefugees.org, ChaldeanNews.com, ReligionNews.com, CNews.com.

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AnticipAting christ Tune to Faith Radio 89.1FM throughout the Christmas season for music and programs that celebrate the coming of our Savior and anticipate His return!

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Your Investment and Support Matter!

As we conclude 2019, we ask you to prayerfully consider making a Kingdom Investment in this ministry. Faith Radio is touching many lives each day and night and your much needed donation can make an eternal impact.

Contact us by calling 800-239-8900 or visit our website www.faithradio.org.

Our mailing address is P.O. Box 210789, Montgomery, AL 36121.

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11/21/19 6:06 PM

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by Katie Blair

One only has to spend a few moments with Gloria Jeans Williams to understand her passion is helping children realize their potential in life. Her eyes light up and match the vibrancy of her smile as she accounts the upcoming activities for the program she is so passionate about: Saving Kids of Incarcerated Parents, or SKIP for short.

The mission of SKIP is to provide supportive services to children (birth through 18) of incarcerated parents to stop the cycle of incarceration and have the children become self-sufficient and responsible persons.

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Williams, who serves as the National Executive Director for SKIP, knows firsthand the needs and unique challenges that children of incarcerated parents face. Through her years as an educator and school administrator, Williams shares that all children need people in their lives who will be a positive influence. For some young people, that’s easier said than done.

It’s those needs that are the driving force behind the program that Williams began to create almost 40 years ago, when she was a teacher in Florida.

“My first job was with migrant children and I quickly realized that a traditional classroom setting was just not going to work. So I set about creating a learning environment that addressed their particular needs, which was a challenge for me, because the children moved so frequently.”

Through her work with children who came from difficult circumstances, and one child in particular, Williams realized that children who come from homes where a parent is incarcerated can face multiple challenges.

“Children need consistency, they need conversations, someone ask-

ing them how the day went. They need chores, they need to know common courtesy, they need self discipline.“ Williams, now retired, shares what participants in SKIP can expect.

“We meet the third Saturday of each month at the Hayneville Road Community Center. If there is a want or a need, any child can come, but you have to work and act correctly. Community service is expected. I have 25 families, which translates close to 60 children, who participate and I insist that they participate! They have to show up, be on time, be courteous, and actively participate. If you are on time, you are late. One of the first things I do is to teach the children to factor in their travel time. If you know that the program starts at 1 pm, you don’t wait until 1 to leave the house . You have to back up your departure time to factor in travel time, entering the building, and being seated prior to the start of an event.”

It’s lessons like punctuality that help shape the youngsters for basic success in life.”

It is one lesson her children have apparently taken to heart. “I am serious about giving out my On Time Award,

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which is a gold dollar coin. One day I looked up and ALL of my children were there on time. I had to promise them an IOU that day, so I could get more coins!”

Besides showing up on time, members of SKIP are expected to actively participate and share their experiences through writing.

“We have a writing workshop. The children all have a journal and they write about their experiences, including drawing a map to learn some directionality. If we take a field trip, then they are going to journal about it. They are encouraged to write and draw about their experiences and be able to summarize what they have encountered on a field trip. You have to be able to write to succeed.”

The Saturday program serves to build upon each month’s lesson and includes a much-anticipated 5th Saturday field trip.

“We have been known to go all over, near and far. We have been to Eat South, we have been to Atlanta, we have even been to the beach. I want to take the children on a train, because that’s a wonderful experience for a child to have.”

No matter the topic of the month, the skill taught, or the destination of the field

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trip, every single SKIP program aims to focus on seven things: Kindness, Assertiveness, Responsibility, Abstinence, Tolerance, Empathy and Respect.

Williams so strongly believes in the focus of these seven areas, that she created a week long summer camp that is offered free of charge, thanks to community partnerships. Camp Karater, a name derived from the first letter of each core focus, allows children to dive into the concepts and explore them in-depth.

When asked about the secret to the program’s success, she said it all boils down to a positive attitude. “You’ve got to stay positive, no matter what.”

That attitude has been helpful to the program, as adjustments have had to come over the years.

“We were so fortunate to have a home across from Floyd Elementary for many years, but unfortunately, the cost

to maintain the utilities became much too large for SKIP to handle, so we had to close that down.” But that has not stopped Williams from continuing her ministry to the children she serves.

“We don’t give up on them! Oh, no we don’t.”

“I will always go and visit the parents. The children know that I will show up at their home from time to time and they know that they can trust me to do what I say I will do. I couldn’t do this without help from the community.”

It is through the community’s generous gifts of time and resources that allows the children of SKIP to continue on their path of excellence and allows Williams to plan for the future.

“I have big plans,’’she says with a gentle laugh before becoming very sol-

emn. “I want the children to experience the value of work. I am really wanting them to learn about growing aloe vera and selling them in handpainted pots, created by them, at the farmer’s market.”

There are also plans to partner with more local organizations for the children to experience more opportunities for community service.

“I really want to partner with others to expose the kids to more experiences that prepare them for their future. This is my life’s work.”

SKIP is currently looking for community members who can serve as mentors and volunteers. If you or your organization is interested in partnering with SKIP, you may visit them at their website www.skipinc.org or through email at skipinc@att.net.

Katie Blair is a graduate of Auburn University in Montgomery with a degree in Elementary Education. She currently serves as a Children’s Ministry Partner with Frazer United Methodist Church. She is a freelance writer and blogger who writes about family life. She resides in Montgomery, Alabama with her husband, two children, and their dog, Rosie.

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Our Statement of Faith In keeping with Protestant theology, we believe that the Bible, as contained in the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments, is fully inspired by God and therefore inerrant in the original manuscripts. The Bible is the only essential and infallible record of God’s self-disclosure to mankind. The Scriptures are the authoritative and normative rule and guide of all Christian life, practice, and doctrine. They are totally sufficient and must not be added to, superseded, or changed by later tradition, extra-biblical revelation, or worldly wisdom. The Bible is perfect in every way and shows us how to become and live as Christians.

The way of becoming a Christian is by faith alone in Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, who came to us, born of a virgin, in full human form while remaining fully God. Jesus was, and is, perfect, and was crucified so that others could live. Three days later He rose from the dead, never to die again.

He ascended into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God the Father, where He, the only mediator between God and man, continually makes intercession for His own.

Those who have faith in Jesus as their Lord in this life, and Savior from damnation in the next life, now live by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, becoming more like Jesus everyday.

We believe that God is one God. The one God has three persons: the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Just as God is one, so also, all believers are to be one. We believe in the unity and fellowship of all those that have faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. We are one in Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church, His Body, which is composed of all men, living and dead, who have been joined to Him through saving faith. *All editorial content published needs to be in agreement with our Statement of Faith

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Holiday Opportunities: To Witness or Not To Witness?

The holidays bring unique opportunities for us to rub elbows with our relatives. We may have camaraderie with those family members who are believers.

We also deal with some beloved kin who have not chosen Christianity and, further, some may have criticized us for our “myths” regarding our faith.

Well-known author John MacArthur has said, “You are the only Bible some unbelievers will ever read.” Does he mean that we are to become Biblethumping fanatics that pounce on unbelieving relatives at every turn?

Or does it mean that our lives are a living Bible that is quietly observed by those unsaved family we love? I believe we are to act as Jesus did – He spoke when He saw the Father speaking and He was silent and used His actions to reflect the Father when He saw the Father working. The Spirit needs to breathe grace to both our actions and our words.

There are some truths about witnessing that we must understand in order to come to a confident pattern as a witness of Jesus Christ. First, we must face the fact that we can’t save anyone.

God is not dependent upon your witness alone to save your family members. Instead we are dependent upon Him to tell us what to say and when to say it.

Second, we need to be consistent in praying for laborers. The more laborers, the greater opportunity your loved one has of encountering the Gospel from someone else. A seed could be planted River Region’s Journey

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that pricks the curiosity of your family member and opens a door for a discussion.

Third, the Holy Spirit woos the lost. The Holy Spirit has been called a “gentleman.” He takes steps to prepare hearts for times of decision about their salvation. This takes time. For some, it takes a lifetime.

Fourth, many are not far from the Kingdom of God. (See Mark 12:34.)

A scribe, one of the leading groups who often tried to disprove that Jesus was God, spoke something that caught Jesus’ ear. Jesus then said the scribe was not far from the kingdom. Many of our loved ones have heard the Gospel, and they are close to receiving the grace God has for them.

Once we have understood these principles, we must learn to become living witnesses. This means we do not nag a person into salvation. We let the Lord lead with the right timing. It also means that we set an overflowing example of God’s love in what we say and do. Utilizing the fruit of the spirit is key to this.

We also need to know the answers to tough questions. We should take time to study those difficult topics that many bring up about God’s justice and love in contemporary life. Most importantly, do not be offended with an unbeliever’s attitude or questions. Elisabeth Elliot, wife of the famous missionary said, “There 20

are those who insist that it is a very bad thing to question God. To them, ‘Why?’ is a rude question. That depends, I believe, on whether it is an honest search, in faith, for His meaning, or whether it is the challenge of unbelief and rebellion.”

Prayer for unsaved relatives is the most important conversation you can have. Speaking to God about your beloved relative can prevent you from taking things into your own hands. Remember, God is just as much their Creator as He is yours. His love goes beyond anything we can possibly conceive.

Here are some verses to guide your prayer times for each specific person.

1. John 6:44 – Lord, draw them to You. 2. Acts 29:18 – Lord, open their eyes to Your light.

3. Ephesians 3:19-19 – Lord, let them experience the reality of Your love.

4. Jeremiah 24:7 – Lord, soften their heart to return to You. 5. Jude 1:23 – Lord, show them mercy when they doubt.

6. 2 Corinthians 7:10 – Lord, let godly sorrow bring them to repentance.

7. Ephesians 6:12-20 – Lord, help them win their spiritual battle.

As we pray, God readies our hearts to do His will, while also inviting us to rest in the fact that only He can change hearts. Even Jesus’ immediate family had trouble understanding Who He was and His purpose. You may see the fruit of your prayers immediately, or you may never see the full impact of your intercession. God promises that He does hear your prayers and answers each one.

As you pass the potatoes and share stories from the past, be the witness God calls you to be…nothing more or nothing less. Following this guideline means that you will always be a blessing to your relatives. Make it a holiday to remember!

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“Mom, I need to add something to my Christmas wish list.”

It’s that time of year again. The stores are adorned with all things red and green. Mailboxes and inboxes are filled with ads, sales, and catalogs. Prettily wrapped packages are at the forefront of nearly everyone’s minds — especially kids’.

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Chr ER aS Fac

Christmas provides a wonderful opportunity to pour the truths of the gospel into the hearts of our children. It’s an ideal time to show them the greatest gift they could ever receive, the gift of Jesus Christ.

Below is a list of important truths to teach our children this Christmas:

1. The Story of Redemption During Advent, with the anticipation of the 25th, we can teach and prepare our children for the celebration in Scripture of Jesus’s birth.

In our family, we like to begin with the story of creation and daily walk through the story of redemption until we get to Christ’s birth on Christmas day. We talk about the fall and God’s promise of a Savior in Genesis 3:15. We read about his promise to Abraham that he reaffirms throughout the Old Testament. We discuss Moses and the one greater than Moses who would come (Hebrews 3:3–6). We read the prophecies in Isaiah. We look at how all of the Bible points to our Redeemer.

2. The Humility of Christ For the world, the holiday season is about extravagance, opulence, and making every detail picture-perfect. The story of Jesus, however, is one of humility. Christmas time provides a great opportunity to teach our children about what it means to be greatest in the kingdom (Matthew 20:26–28). His parents, his place of birth, his hometown, and his very act of taking on human flesh were all demonstrations of humility.

Most people expected the Messiah to arrive in a castle, not a stable. Most expected him to live a life of royalty, not poverty. Most expected him to conquer the Romans, not be crucified by them. Read through Philippians 2:1–11 and show your children the humility of Christ.

3. God Works Through Weakness In a similar vein, teaching our children how God works through weakness is another topic to teach at Christmas. God often chooses the unlikely and the weak to use in his story of redemption. Mary was a simple, poor girl from an insignificant town. Peter was an uneducated fisherman. God’s glory is displayed when he works through our weaknesses. This is seen most dramatically in Jesus’s death on the cross in our place and his resurrection on the third day, securing our victory over sin and death.

4. God Keeps His Promises Another important truth we can emphasize with our children during this season is that God keeps his promises. We can begin with the promise of a Savior after the fall and go throughout the Old Testament, looking at God’s promise to redeem his people, culminating in the fulfilled promise in Christ.

5. The Names of Christ Last year, my children learned a different name for Jesus each day during Advent.

We studied names such as Messiah, Lamb of God, Immanuel, Alpha and Omega, and Prince of Peace. Teaching children the names of Jesus and what they mean helps them know more about Jesus, his character, and what he has done. We made a chain link out of paper with a different name printed out on each one. Another way to learn the names might be to create a Christmas ornament for each one and hang them on a Christmas tree each time you study a name.

Take advantage of this time of year to teach your children about the Christ-child.

Spend time in the word, showing them the promised Messiah and how that promise was fulfilled in the baby born in Bethlehem. Help them see that Jesus is the greatest gift they could ever receive and the greatest gift they could share with others.

Christina Fox (@christinarfox) writes for a number of Christian ministries and publications including True Woman, ERLC, and The Gospel Coalition. She is the author of Idols of a Mother’s Heart (forthcoming) and Closer Than a Sister: How Union with Christ helps Friendships to Flourish. You can find her at www.christinafox.com and on Facebook.

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Dalraida UMC ad on page 21

Aldersgate UMC 6610 Vaughn Road Christmas Song Musical & Live Nativity 10:30 a.m. Sunday, December 15, in the Aldersgate Featuring a Live Founded Upon God’s WordSanctuary.

Liturgically Joyful At Christchurch, Holy Scripture At Christchurch, worship involves Nativity with Actors and serves as the final authority for our the the entire congregation, as weAnimals on teaching and preaching. Indeed, offer God praise, thanksgiving and over the course of three years, adoration using worship traditions the front of can the Church almost the entire Bible lawn is read that be traced back to theafter the woraloud and preached upon. earliest days of the Church. Our is not designed to entertain ship service. worship us, but to honor the true “audience” of worship, the Lord!

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service Tuesday, December 24, 3 pm and 7 pm.

For more information, call (334) 272.6152 Warm and Loving Committed to Mission or visit www.aldersgateumc.org.

By God’s grace and through His Spirit, the people of Christchurch enjoy the richness and joy of being a true family. We’d love for you to become a part of us! Regardless of who you are, you will always find a home at Christchurch.

The people of Christchurch respond to God’s Word by going out into the world proclaiming the good news of Jesus, and we joyfully serve as His hands and feet whether in places like Uganda and Guatemala or within Montgomery.

Christchurch

ad on page 3

8800 Vaughn Rd Candlelit Service of 8800 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 www.christchurchmgm.net 334.387.0566 Lessons and Carols Thursday, December 5, 6:30 p.m.

Featuring Madrigal Voices of Montgomery, Montgomery Brassworks, and conductor Thomas Hinds. For information call (334) 387.0566, ext. 203 or visit www.christchurchxp.net.

Church at Chantilly 9299 Vaughn Road, Pike Road Christmas Eve Worship Service Tuesday, December 24, 5:30 p.m.

For info call (334) 279.1372 or visit www.chantillychurch.com.

Cornerstone Christian Church ad on page 18

301 Dalraida Road Christmas Eve Candlelight Service December 24th at 6 pm Call 273.8595 for info.

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December 2019

3817 Atlanta Highway Christmas Cantata December 22, 11 a.m.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Tuesday, December 24 at 5:30 Christmas Day Dinner, Noon Call (334) 272.2190 or visit them at www.dalraidaumc.com.

Eastern Hills Baptist Church 3604 Pleasant Ridge Road “Celebrate the King,” Sounds of EHBC at Christmas December 8, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Featuring soloist, instrumentalists, preschool choir, Celebration Singers & more.

No Admission. Childcare provided for birth through 5 year olds.

Christmas Candlelight Service December 24, 5:00 p.m.

Visit them at www.ehbconline.com.

First Baptist Church ad on Back Cover

305 South Perry Street The Joy Singers Christmas Program Sunday, December 1, at 6:15 p.m.

Stakely Sanctuary; Come join us as the JOY Adult Choir leads us in worship celebrating the birth of Christ.

The Living Christmas Tree December 13-15. Performers will delight you atop the 40 ft. set resembling a Christmas tree on stage. Tickets go on sale beginning of November.

Candlelight Service, Christmas Eve December 24 at 3:30 and 5 p.m.

Call for details at (334) 834.6310 or visit www.montgomeryfbc.org.

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First United Methodist Church 2416 West Cloverdale Park Festival of Christmas Worship Services Sunday, December 15, 8:45 am and 11 am. Our annual concert featuring our music ministry and a professional orchestra.

Christmas Eve Services Tuesday, December 24 Communion and Candlelight Services from noon-8 p.m. on December 30 Call (334) 834.8990 for info.

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Frazer Memorial UMC ad on page 11

6000 Atlanta Highway Hanging of the Greens November 24 from 3-7 p.m.

Women’s Christmas Brunch Saturday, December 7 from 9-11 a.m.

Christmas Musical: Glorious Carols of Christmas Wesley Hall, December 8 at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Glorious arrangements of classical Holiday Hymns to Classic Carols for the whole family to sing along with.

Candlelight Worship Sunday, December 22 at 5:30 or Tuesday, December 24 at 3:30 for Contemporary or 5:30 for Traditional. Call for details at (334) 272.8622 or visit www. frazerumc.org

Gateway Baptist Church ad on page 31

3300 Bell Road Candlelight Service and Communion Tuesday, December 24, 5 p.m. Call them at (334) 272.9494 or visit gatewaybaptist.com.

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Heritage Baptist Church

St. Thomas Aquinas ad on page 30

ad on page 32

1849 Perry Hill Rd Christmas Musical December 15 at 10:15 am Christmas Eve Service December 24 at 5 pm. Call (334) 279.9976 or visit hbcm.net.

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Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1550 East Washington Street “A Christmas Story” December 8 at 9 a.m. service Call (334) 462.3048 for more info.

Saint James UMC ad on page 13

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9045 Vaughn Road Christmas Musical December 8 at 6 p.m. in the Worship Center. The service will feature the Chancel Choir. We hope you can join us for this marvelous musical event.

Christmas Eve Services Tuesday, December 24 Candlelight and communion 12 noon - Traditional, Sunday Service 4 p.m. & 6 p.m. – Worship Center For more information call (334) 277.3037 or visit www.sjlife.com.

355 Bell Road The Vigil of the Nativity December 24, 6 pm Call (334) 322.1626 or visit them at www. aquinaspck.org.

Taylor Road Baptist Church 1685 Taylor Road The Longest Night December 21, 7 p.m. A service of remembrance if grieving the loss of loved ones.

Candlelight Service Tuesday, December 24 at 5:30 Call (334) 271.3363 for details or visit www.taylorroad.org.

Vaughn Forest Church 8660 Vaughn Road Christmas Eve Service Tuesday, December 24 at 5 p.m.

Call for info at (334) 279.5433 or visit www.vaughnforrest.com.

East Memorial Baptist Church 1320 Old Ridge Road “Sing, Praise Christmas” December 15 at 10:30 a.m.

Our Celebration Choir, Orchestra, and Drama Team will present “The Songs of Christmas,” an East Memorial Christmas Favorite.

Call (334) 365.7500 for details or visit www.eastmemorial.org.

First Baptist Church, Prattville ad on page 27

138 South Washington St. Christmas Eve Service Monday, December 24, time TBA Call (334) 365.0606 for more info or visit www.fbcprattville.org.

First Presbyterian Church, Prattville ad on page 19

Prattville Centerpoint Fellowship Church to be held at Prattville Christian Academy Christmas Eve Services We will be having our Candlelight Service on Tuesday, December 24 at 3:00 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. at PCA. Call for details at (334) 356.3076 or visit www. centeringlives.com.

220 South Chestnut Street Lessons in Carols Musical December 8 at 10:45 a.m.

Christmas Eve Candelight & Communion December 24 at 6 pm.

Call (334) 365.6387 or visit their website at www.fpcministries.org.

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Navigating Grief Through the Holiday Season The Lord is close to the broken hearted.

He rescues those whose spirits are crushed. Psalm 34:18 NLT As the holiday season approaches, we all experience a variety of emotions. Some feel joy and excitement while others feel anxiety and dread. A common cause of anxiety and dread is the recent death of a loved one. We feel left behind to build a new, normal life for ourselves.

Understanding the process by which our minds endure unthinkable loss can help us navigate the mine field of emotional triggers that the holiday season brings.

Research has shown that all people grieve the same way. In attempt to process the unimaginable, our minds go into a type of auto pilot.

Stages of Grief

Denial – This can’t be true. You pick up your phone to text or call forgetting they are gone.

Anger – Anger at God or anger at the person that is gone. Sometimes it will manifest as extreme irritability towards things that never bothered you before.

Depression – Being forgetful or struggling to stay focused on tasks that River Region’s Journey

December 2019

previously were not difficult. Withdrawing from people and no longer finding pleasure in activities you previously enjoyed is common as well as extreme sadness and tears.

Bargaining – Wanting to do whatever it takes for the loss to be reversed. This stage obviously does not apply to a loss by death. but is common in divorce and other potentially reversable losses.

Acceptance – The pain of the loss is still present, but the person is hopeful that they can move on with their life.

What is unique about grief is that the stages are not experienced in an orderly fashion. The stages will bounce around in our minds in no certain order and for no predictable amount of time. Clients frequently say that they feel as though they are losing their minds because of their frequently changing moods. Through this painful and unpredictable experience, Christians are comforted by knowing that we will never bear the pain of grief alone.

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29 NLT The stages of grief can be overwhelming for the person left behind. They have to face holidays, anniversaries, birthdays and other special occasions without their loved one. The following are a few guidelines to help you navigate the holiday season: 1. Anxiety can be decreased by understanding that the unexpected roller coaster of emotions are the stages of grief.

Over time the first four stages will diminish leaving you in the acceptance stage.

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2. When you choose to be with other people or in public, map out an escape plan. It can either be a temporary quiet place or going home sooner than you expected. Grief emotions have been compared to an ocean wave. They rise suddenly, crash over you, then recede as quickly as they began.

3. Give yourself permission to experience the emotions. Do not try to stuff them or ignore them. You may be tempted to increase the use of alcohol or prescription medications to diminish the severity of the grief. Unfortunately, if mood altering products are taken, the mind will simply pause the grief. It will return full force when the effects of alcohol or medication wears off.

4. When appropriate, start a new holiday tradition rather than being reminded year after year of your loss.

As you navigate through your grief over the holidays, be comforted in knowing that, as Christians, the precious gift of Jesus makes death simply a transition rather than a destination. Those who have accepted Jesus’ sacrifice have the assurance that we will see those we’ve lost again.

For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NLT This precious gift of Jesus is, as they say, the reason for the season.

Debbie Cowell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and works out of our Prattville office. She is a member of the Alabama Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and the American Association of Christian Counselors. Ms. Cowell works with individuals, couples, families, adults, adolescents and children. Debbie’s clinical interests include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, spiritual and identity development, marriage and family counseling, parenting issues, adolescent issues, and child behavior issues.

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THE KING IS COMING AN ADVENT STUDY OF RUTH

4:00 and 5:30 PM

Series starting December 1 9:30 - Traditional Service 11:00 - Contemporary Service

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Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery APAC, Alabama Pre/ Post Adoption Connection Support Group: This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Meets 3rd Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m. For more information call Jill Sexton at 409-9477.

Alcoholic / Addiction Location: Caring Center of FBC, 52 Adams Avenue CrossRoads Support Group is for addicts/alcoholics and family members. Meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays and follows a Christ-centered 12-step program. Call 264-4949.

Location: Dalraida United Methodist Church 3817 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery An Alanon meeting is held at 9 am on Saturday mornings. Call 272.2190 for details.

anyone struggling with addiction or life-challenging issues.

Mondays beginning at 6:15 pm.

Childcare available. Call John Pearse at 303-243-4308 or visit myjourneychurch.com.

Location: Grace Presbyterian Church, Corner of Bell Road and Atlanta Hwy. Alcoholics Anonymous and Alanon meetings are held Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, at 6 p.m. An Open AA Speaker meeting is held on Saturday at 6 p.m. An Alanon & AA held on Sundays at 2 p.m.

Location: Grace Point Community Church, 78223 Tallassee Hwy (Hwy 14), Wetumpka Celebrate Recovery- every Tuesday night- 6:15pm.

All are welcome! These meetings are a safe and loving environment for individuals seeking to conquer their hurts, habits and hang-ups! gracepoint.info.

Location: Heritage Baptist Church 1849 Perry Hill Rd, Montgomery, AL Route1520 is a Christ-centered recovery movement dedicated to showing the way home for men impacted by sex and pornography addiction. Meets: Mondays, 6:30 – 8:00 PM CST. No Childcare Provided. Email montgomery@route1520.com, visit http://www.route1520.com/ men/groups-for-men/ or call 877.200.1520.

Location: Journey Church, 435 Sheila Blvd, Prattville Celebrate Recovery - Christ-centered 12-step for

Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd.

RSVP- This is a 12 step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and Bible we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, the making of amends for our destructive actions, and to fill the void in our hearts in a loving relationship with God. Wednesday @ 6:30pm in Rm. 121 of the Life Center.

Location: Prattville Church of Christ, 344 E Main St. CASA - 12 step (Christians Against Substance Abuse) spiritual recovery program, for overcoming addictions. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 PM. Please call 334-365-4201 for additional information.

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River Region’s Journey

December 2019

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• Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program • Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!

REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! Choose from 1- and 2-week Sessions and Mother-Daughter Weekends!

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Location: St. James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road Celebrate Recovery meets every Thursday night from 6-8 pm in the Youth Room. This is a Christ-centered 12-step group for anyone struggling with an “addiction or life-challenging issues.” For information, call Chris Henderson at 334-215-0427.

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Location: First United Methodist Church, Wetumpka 306 W. Tuskeena Street ‘Fresh Start’ Recovery meets every Thursday, 6-8pm (meal included). In 2011, Fresh Start Motorcycle Ministry (FSMM) began when God laid it on the heart of a lifetime biker to minister to those with his background.

All are welcome, not a requirement to own/ride a motorcycle. For any information contact ministry leader, Paul Henderson, 334-201-5428.

Location: Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1728 S. Hull Street, Montgomery Route1520 is a Christ-centered recovery movement dedicated to showing the way home for men impacted by sex and pornography addiction. Meets Wednesday from 6:30-8 pm. For more information email riverregion@ route1520.com, visit http:// www.route1520.com/men/ groups-for-men or call 877-2000-1520.

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Alzheimer’s / Dementia

Location: First UMC, 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, An Adult Parkinson/Alzheimer’s respite ministry meets from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Lunch is served. Contact Daphne at 834-8990.

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy An Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers’ Support Group meets on the first Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m. in Room 3103. Call 495-6350 for more information.

Cancer

Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Rd Cancer Survivors Support Group is sponsored by Samaritan Counseling Center. We would love to have anyone (patient or family member ) join us.

Thursdays at 1 pm. Please call before attending just to make sure we are meeting that week. Please call Debbie D at 467-4578 or Ben W at 202-1912.

Location: ChristChurch, 8800 Vaughn Road Cancer Support Group for general cancer. Tuesday afternoons at 1 pm. For more info, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie at 467-4578.

Location: Frazer UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Central Alabama Multiple Myeloma Support Group meets from 10 a.m. to noon the second Saturday of every month in Room 3105. We have guest speakers, video presentations, printed information and a group that welcomes sharing their journey with myeloma in an informal setting. Refreshments are provided. Contact Joe Crowley at 334-207-4385 or jpcrowl46@ yahoo.com Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support Group, providing education, awareness, and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family and friends, meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net

Divorce

Location: First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street Divorce Care Wednesday nights @6:30-8:00 pm in Room 405B. Child care is available. Contact Kathy Cooper at 241-5125 for information.

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Divorce Care meets each Tuesday from 6 – 7:30 p.m. Come to the Library area.

This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. Call 495-6350 or e-mail jan@ frazerumc.org.

Gambling Location: Cedarwood Community Church, 10286 US HWY 231 in the Wallsboro/Wetumpka com-

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munity. The church is 1 1/2 miles past Tutweiler prison.

Gamblers Anonymous, Saturdays at 6 pm. and Mondays at 6:30 pm.

Call 567-0476.

Location: Mental Health of America, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Sundays @ 5 pm.

For more information about the GA meetings call 334-399-6918. For information about counseling services or to request a guest speaker please call the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling at 334-277-5100.

December 2019

River Region’s Journey

Grief Location: Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road River Region Survivors of Suicide meets on the second and fourth Thursday of every month (excluding holidays) from 6:30-8:00 PM. This is an open group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide and welcomes anyone regardless of their religious beliefs. Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com with questions or for more information.

Location: Eastmont Baptist, 4505 Atlanta Hwy. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child meeting first Tuesdays at 7 pm.

Call (334) 284-2721 for info.

Location: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth St, Prattville Grief Share, Wednesday evenings at 6 pm in the church parlor. Led by Michael Beatty. Call 3655977.

Location: Frazer UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Grief Recovery Support Group meets Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., Rm 3105. Call 495-6350 for more info.

Location: Grace Baptist Church, 304 Old Montgomery Highway, Wetumpka Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group

for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. Meets the last Thursday night of each month. For info, contact Alice Scarborough (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis (334) 567-8754 or e-mail mourningtomorning@gmail. com. Join us on Facebook.

Location: Millbrook FUMC, 3350 Edgewood Rd Grief Share meets Sundays from 5-7 p.m. For more information or to sign up, please call the church office at 285-4114 or email churchoffice@ mfumc.org.

Location: Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1550 E. Washington Street Grief support group meets every Monday at 6:00 P.M- 7:00 P.M. For additional information, please contact Alice Glover at (334)281-2754.

Mental Health Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Mental Health - NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) meets 2nd Monday of each month from 6:30 – 8:30 pm in Room 7205. Group provides understanding, education & information to family members & friends of those who suffer mental illness, Call Pat Cobb at 334-2798331 for more info. NAMI Connection Support Group for individuals with mental illness meets every Thursday evening, 6:30 – 7:30 pm, room 3104. Call Pat Cobb at 334-279-8331 for more information.

Parenting Location: First Baptist Prattville, 138 S. Washington Moms LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) meets twice monthly from 8:30 - 11:45 am in the chapel at the Church from Aug - May. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guest, special guest speakers and a lot of fun!! Cost is $5 per meeting. For moms of all stages and ages of life. Childcare provided by reservation. Call April Scott at 828-446-6666.

Location: First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) is a place you can share a good meal, make new friends, and find encouragement as you face the everyday challenges of raising your little ones. We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Meetings are every 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Frazer mom2mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of ages birth to 5 at Frazer UMC to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. Email Mom2mom@ frazerumc.org for more information.

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Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd.

Single Moms Support Group, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in classroom 118. For information call 277-5800.

Location: Perry Hill UMC, 910 Perry Hill Road Single Moms’ Care and Support Group meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15 - 8:00 PM. December meeting will be on the 11th. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants -16 years. Call 272-3174.

Location: Redland Baptist, 1266 Dozier Rd, Wetumpka A MOPS group will be held 1st and 3rd Tuesday’s of every month during the school year, and has scheduled play dates and moms nights out through the summer and beyond. While moms are in a MOPS meeting, their children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program. Email Denise Braswell at deniseorscott@yahoo.com.

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Location: St.James UMC, 9045 Vauhgn Road Moms in Prayer International: This is a Christ centered interdenominational prayer ministry made up of moms, grandmothers, aunts or any woman who wants to gathers to pray for their children and schools. Meets every Sunday afternoon from 3:004:00. Call Annette Jones for more information on joining us or training to start your own group. 850529-4730 or email Montgomerymipac@gmail.com

Physical Challenges Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Road Visually Impaired Support Group – Meets monthly on second Thursday 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. The group is called Outward Sight - Inward Vision and is for those with vision loss and their caregivers. Our mission is to assist those experiencing vision loss to maintain their independence. Call 272-6152.

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Parkinson’s Support meets 4th Thursdays at 6 pm in Room 8114. Call 495-6350 for more info.

CHILDREN A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY

and at Children’s of Alabama, we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential.

That’s why we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds, the most skilled hands and the most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine.

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(205) 638-9100

ChildrensAL.org

Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Ostomy Support meets every other month on the 2nd Sunday at 1:30 p.m. in room 3101. In 2018: Feb., April, June, Aug., Oct., Dec. Call 495-6350 for more info.

Location: Vaughn Park Church, 3800 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach Group meets 2nd Friday of each month from 6:308 PM. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare is provided. Please visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com or our Facebook page (MADSOG) for information. Please contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail.com.

Send support group info to deanne@readjourneymagazine.com 31

December 2019

River Region’s Journey

Emotions, Basics and Change I’ve gotten out of debt before following your plan, but I always seem to fall right back in. I find myself spending more than I mean to whenever I go out shopping or running errands. I’m tired of all this, and I want to stop busting my budget and get control of my money once and for all. Do you have any advice?

Q.

A. Years ago, when I lost everything financially, there were two or three extremely strong emotions that spurred me toward change. Probably the biggest emotion was fear. I was scared to death I’d be broke for the rest of my life, and not be able to take care of my family.

Don’t misunderstand me, though. I don’t think you should ever live your life in fear. But a reasonable, healthy level of fear where some things are concerned can be a fantastic motivator.

River Region’s Journey

December 2019

Another emotion was disgust. I realized the way I had been living and handling money was stupid. So, I made a proactive, conscious decision that I was going to change, and things were going to be different. The third emotion was contentment. You know, advertisers try to make us believe our lives will be better, and we’ll be happier, if we just go out and buy their stuff.

I can tell you from personal experience when this idea is crammed down your throat every day, it can warp your perception of contentment and happiness. Lots of stuff does not equal lots of happiness.

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If you’ve tried several times, and are still falling back into the same old trap, maybe you should approach your situation in a practical, day-to-day way. Stop going places where you’re tempted to spend money on silly things. When you go out running errands and shopping, make a list of only the bare necessities, and take along just enough cash to pay for them.

Spending money on a bunch of stuff you don’t need, and probably don’t even really want, isn’t going to bring you contentment. It’s just going to bust your budget, and put you in a financial hole that will, sooner or later, become very difficult—if not impossible—to dig your way out of!

Celebrating the Joy of Christmas — DECEMBER 1 —

— DECEMBER 13-15 —

JOY Singers Advent Worship

The Living Christmas Tree

6:15 PM // Stakely Sanctuary

4:00 & 7:00 PM // Main Sanctuary

— DECEMBER 4 —

— DECEMBER 18 —

War Room Corporate Prayer Time

Cookies, Cocoa & Carols

12:10 PM // Main Sanctuary

5:00 to 7:00 PM // Fellowship Hall

— DECEMBER 8 —

— DECEMBER 22 —

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering Emphasis

Lord’s Supper Vesper Service

8:30 & 11:00 AM // Main Sanctuary

5:30 PM // Main Sanctuary

Preschool & Children’s Choirs Christmas Program

— DECEMBER 24 —

6:15 PM // Main Sanctuary

Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship 3:30 & 5:00 PM // Main Sanctuary

— DECEMBER 10 — Senior Adult Christmas Banquet 5:00 PM // Fellowship Hall

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE EVENTS, VISIT

MONTGOMERYFBC.ORG

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH MONTGOMERY 305 S PERRY STREET // MONTGOMERY, AL 36104 // 334.834.6310 JAY WOLF, PASTOR