March/April 2024 My Community Spirit

@Encompass Ministries

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My COMMUNITY Spirit Magazine (MCS), is published every 2 months by Encompass Ministries, Inc., a 501c3 faith-based non-profit, organized in 1998. Now in our 26th year, we continue to expand services and reach. As always, we are committed to providing timely resources, whether it be food assistance, training for family stability, as well as a myriad of Life Skills taught off-site in Addictions Recovery and At-Risk Youth programs. Our goal is always to enhance personal and family development for all walks of life. Food assistance touches six Metro Atlanta counties.

This publication is simply an extension of the work we do in-house and throughout the community. Within these pages you will find articles that will inspire you and stories of strength and courage. You will catch the spirit of encouragement within the articles written by thoughtful writers.

Advertising in MCS is available. After the publication costs, the proceeds go directly into the non-profit's mission, to feed the hungry and help families get jobs and ultimately, get on their feet.

The advertisements in MCS are meant to promote businesses, services; anything that someone wants to buy, sell, or exchange. Encompass Ministries in no way represents the quality or trustworthiness of these printed solicitations, so due care is needed when responding to any information presented. MCS reserves the right to decline advertising material that is deemed inappropriate.

Please consider Encompass Ministries in your monthly giving. We depend on local financial support to continue to offer stability training and groceries to those in our community. Donations are tax-deductible.

The mission of Encompass Ministries is to help individuals and families (re)establish stability and self-reliance by offering a variety of programs including immediate food assistance, employment strategies, and life skills through hands-on support and ongoing training in order to have a community where everyone has the tools to achieve stability and no one goes to bed hungry.

Spring Cleaning

Encompass Is... A Healthy

Path

YMCA

Letter From the Editor

Lynne Saunders

Lynne@encompassministriesinc.org

Founder and CEO of Encompass Ministries, Papa’s Pantry, The Master’s Training Center & Editor of My Community Spirit Magazine

Author, “21st Century Keys to EMPLOYMENT”

Ordained Minister, Wife, Mother of 3, and Grandmommy to 6, and Dog-Mom to Alex.

Already, the year is passing by quickly. Spring is springing, birds are singing, and it's time for cleaning! It's a new year to be embraced with purpose.

As Encompass Ministries closes out 2023, we were not surprised to see a marked uptick in clients and food given out.

• People Fed: 28,966

• Children Fed: 8,656

• Organizational Pickups: 341

• Pounds of Pet Food: 5,748

• Approximately number of meals: 1.25 Million--that's 1,250,000!

• People who exclaimed their gratitude for helpuncountable!

All of this with a staff of 4 and a volunteer team of 55 who gave 2017 hours! I am grateful to be surrounded by those who share in ministry with me.

Encompass is to the point where we now NEED to add staff to keep up with the food and training demands. We are also looking for volunteers who are detailoriented and highly organized. Please refer ministryminded folks to us who are interested in learning more.

Now, back to this new season... Spring seems to bring us into a new sense of anticipation. Similar to ringing in the New Year, the warmer temperatures urge us outside to enjoy nature as it wakes up from its winter sleep. The warmth from the sun renews and lifts our spirits. Gratitude for good health, the beauty of budding flowers and trees brings an automatic smile.

What exactly is gratitude? It is a deep sense of appreciation for things in our lives that bring us joy, comfort, opportunity, relief, or even love. For some,

Encompass

Papa's Pantry Phone: 770-591-4730

The Master's Training Center Phone: 770-591-9588 encompassministriesinc.org

it is the realization, acknowledgment, or reminder of God. That He is the Creator who spoke our world into existence. Our appreciation for Him is accentuated by the confidence that He hears our prayers, and that he always just that close to us.

What are you grateful for this spring season? Could it be the time change to Daylight Savings time on Saturday, March 9th? Personally, I love it when we have sunlight until 8:00 and 9:00 PM. After a full day, it is still pleasant to sit on the deck and watch the birds.

Or are you grateful for Easter? This is the season when we look over the scriptures and find solace in our faith. As a Christian Believer, we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, perfectly and exactly fulfilling the scriptures from over 2,500 years ago as the prophets foretold. We have eternal salvation because of this one event. It is just up to us, individually, to surrender our lives to God, to become part of His family.

I also love the Passover feasts and the culture, the traditions to celebrate God's provision for his people. If you have the opportunity to participate in a Seder Dinner, be sure to do so. You will be transported to a time of remembrance like never before.

This season, I encourage you to fill your days with intentional gratitude. Perhaps this is a good time to begin journaling who and what you are grateful for.

Lynne

Compassion is

at the Heart of

SpiritCommunity Our

By Candi Hannigan

I’ve often thought that Cherokee County’s motto — Where Metro Meets the Mountains — is pretty perfect. It’s a great description of how our county, which truly has become a suburb of Atlanta, stretches to the foothills of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

Yet, I’m wondering if it’s time for a new slogan. A phrase that captures the love, compassion, and concern that our residents truly have for one another: Where the Community Cares; Where Neighbors Help Neighbors; Where Compassion and Community Unite. (Apparently creating slogans isn’t my strength, but hopefully you get the picture!)

Once I married and moved to Cherokee County in 1987, and started raising a family, I began to realize what a compassionate community we live in. Glenn and I joined a church; while he jumped into teaching Sunday school and serving in leadership, I dove into outreach and local missions. Working alongside so many who love to serve, I found my sweet spot.

Back in 2006, When my friend Cheryl Ruffer and I started the nonprofit Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee (GAKAC) in 2006, the enthusiasm was tangible. The first year, with the help of a few churches, we provided 100 children with all they needed to return to school, equipped for a successful year. Each year, GAKAC grew until we found ourselves with more than 400 volunteers serving 3,000-plus children on the back-to-school bash day in multiple locations. Now, Cheryl and I are thankful that Revolution Church has adopted GAKAC, continuing the support so many need and cherish.

This is just one example, but I hope it speaks loud and

clear. I have a hard time imagining that this strong sense of community support and love exists anywhere else. Yet, I have no basis for comparison because I haven’t lived anywhere this long or plugged into a community to this extent.

This spirit of generosity, love, and compassion is hard to describe. Through the years, I’ve heard or written about so many uplifting local news stories. Here are a few that come to mind.

Ø Family members and strangers stepping up to donate a kidney to someone in need.

Ø Making casseroles and donating gifts for the kids at Goshen Boys Ranch to relieve stress during a busy holiday season.

Ø Boy and girl scouts spending hours laying wreaths on the graves at the Georgia National Cemetery

Ø Students collecting coats, cans of food, school supplies and other items for their peers.

Ø Adults guiding young people by teaching altruism and creating hands-on serving opportunities.

Immediate needs are being met on a daily basis through several groups with an online presence. A glance at the Cherokee Connect Facebook page, with 92,000 members, or Cherokee Collective, with close to 1,000, shows the requests and quick responses to find shelter, furniture, coats, food, transportation, and other essentials.

In-person, monthly gatherings of Cherokee Collective (third Thursdays at Thrive in Canton’s Jones Building, On Facebook) and Cherokee FOCUS (fourth Wednesdays at Woodstock City Church, www.cherokeefocus.org) are held for members of nonprofits, churches, and government agencies to gather and discuss trends, concerns, and ways to help each other.

Hardly a month goes by when there isn’t at least one fundraiser in our county to support a nonprofit. A 70s Adult Prom in February gave local residents a chance to dress up prom-style and enjoy an evening out, while helping The Children’s Haven. The annual Guns and Hoses 5K, held the same month, lined up supporters of the Cherokee County’s sheriff’s department to compete against fire and emergency services, in good-natured fun. The real winners were the charities supported by whichever department comes out on top.

If you want to be active in helping others but aren’t already plugged in somewhere, there are plenty of opportunities. We’ll dive a little deeper in the next issue and point you to specific ways you can serve your neighbors in need.

Candi Hannigan, a Cherokee County resident since 1987, is an empty nester who’s enjoying time with Glenn, her husband of 36 years. They worship and serve at Ebenezer Methodist Church, which Glenn has pastored for 14 years. Both are journalists who enjoy sharing the Good News to anyone who’ll listen.

The Road to Abundant Life- The Good Shepherd

By David Loehr

So, I need a navigator while I drive. There, I said it. It’s okay; I have learned to live with it. My best navigator is my wife. She is always keeping me on track when we are going somewhere. She is constantly saying, “You know you have to turn here, right?” or something similar.

This used to cause arguments. These thoughts, like most, were "Don’t tell me how to drive." But now, after 29 years of marriage, I realize that the reason she says this is because if she doesn’t, I will go right past the turn. That has happened so often that I have learned to appreciate it. It does give me pause sometimes and my bad attitude rises, then I remember my past and I realize I do need her reminders.

“The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought all his own outside, he goes ahead of them.

The sheep follow him because they know his voice. They will never follow a stranger; instead, they will run away from him, because they don’t know the voice of strangers.” John 10:2-5

Here, Jesus is using a very familiar cultural reference. Sheep were often kept in pens. This was usually a carved out rock or wooden structure to keep the sheep safe. There was usually only one entrance, or gate. The shepherd would stay at the doorway (the gate) to prevent thieves, wolves, or any other predator from getting into the pen to bring harm to the sheep.

In the morning, the shepherd would “lead them out” of the pen with his voice. The sheep knew the shepherd’s voice, and they would follow him out to find a pasture for grazing. The sheep knew the shepherd’s voice and knew the shepherd was going to lead them to find what they needed. Later in this passage, Jesus states:

“A thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance." John 10:10

This context is about the relationship between the shepherd and

the sheep. This is important because the idea is that Jesus is our Shepherd, and He leads us into abundant life. When we allow Jesus to be the Shepherd of our lives, we are led to the place where God can give us all we need for life.

We are led out by His word in scripture and by the voice of the Holy Spirit that has been given to us. These sheep knew the shepherd’s voice because they spent time with the him. They trusted the shepherd because they knew he was always looking out for their good. They experienced it every day. “The sheep follow him because they know his voice”

But we also need to know that there are thieves out there. We have an enemy, and that enemy wants to kidnap us and take us to places we don’t want to go. We know these things, but notice this... We are not asked to know the enemy's voice; we are tasked to know the shepherd’s voice. Because when we know the shepherd’s voice, we know when it is not the shepherd “They will never follow a stranger; instead, they will run away from him, because they don’t know the voice of strangers”

So, as we journey towards the abundance promised by our Shepherd, let's remember the wisdom gained from the everyday moments, much like relying on my wife's gentle reminders during our travels. Just as she ensures we stay on course, Jesus, our Shepherd, leads us towards the fullness of life. By recognizing His voice amidst life's distractions, we find security and satisfaction in His guidance. Like the sheep attuned to their shepherd's call, let's remain attentive, discerning His voice above the noise of the world, steadfast in our pursuit of the abundant life He graciously provides.

David Loehr, Lead Pastor, Hope Church, has over 20 years of ministry experience, is the proud father of two great kids, husband to Julie Loehr for 26 years, a Falcons fan for far too many heartbreaking years, loves all water sports - boating, fishing, just being at the water!, and would love to spend more free time - fishing!

Lending Ourselves Out Of A Friendship

By Denise Roberts

One thousand dollars fixes car problems, pays rent or helps with a house payment. One thousand dollars keeps water flowing, heat working, and food on the table. One thousand dollars is a lot of money—no matter what the current economic environment is.

A number of years ago, my husband and I made the decision to loan friends $1000. A series of difficult events rendered our friends on the verge of bankruptcy with a work vehicle in need of repair. At the time, our own budget was tight. An Air Force First Lieutenant’s salary didn’t leave much leftover, but we believed the loan was the right decision. We didn’t sign papers. We didn’t have a payoff schedule. We believed our friends’ commitment to repay us.

If only we had been seeker’s of God’s wisdom back then.

The Bible is chock-full of life-giving words. I have discovered there is nothing the scriptures do not address. Every situation, circumstance, emotion, thought, action. Sometimes I read the Bible seeking wisdom for a particular issue. Most of the time, the reading plan I do for the year are a collection of somewhat random passages and I just ask the Lord for the insight he wants me to have—what unexpected light he wants to shine into situations past, present, and future. One day, the passages included Proverbs 17 – 19.

Proverbs is fun to read because it abounds with meme worthy oneliners. At the moment, one of my favorites is, “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life” (Pr 16:31). Funny, shocking, poignant, caustic, duh thoughts, wow thoughts - we get them all. But there is almost always a recurring theme.

This particular day’s passages zeroed in on friendship and money, recalling to my mind that past situation. With hindsight’s 20/20 vision, I evaluated our decision to lend our friends that $1000 dollars through the lens of God’s Word.

Proverbs 17:17 tells us that true friends love all time, through thick

and thin, good times and adversity. It is the unfriendly person who pursues selfish ends (Pr 18:1).

Proverbs 18:24 instructs that “a man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” We don’t need an entourage, we need friends in our lives we can count on.

And Proverbs chapter 19 verses 4 and 7 give us the dire warning that friends will flock to us in our time of wealth, but will desert us in our time of poverty or need. Even though we might go looking for them, they’ll be nowhere to be found.

My husband and I want to be loyal and selfless in our friendships. We want to be the kind of friends who stick by others when they are down. We want to be the kind of people others know they can depend on—for richer or for poorer. As the memory of that past situation bubbled up, these passages exonerated our decision to lend that money. We’d been good friends to our friends. But as I continued to read, I remembered the rest of our story.

We trusted we were in common agreement with our friends that the $1000 was a loan that would be repaid. Over time their financial circumstances improved but we never saw the promised, expected, repayment.

The disappointment we experienced in having our friends renege on their word was crushing. It led to multiple, heart-rending conversations over dinner. How should we handle this? What do we say? Do we continue to wait? We had an expectation of repayment that went unmet. Maybe our friends forgot? We never said anything so maybe they hopefully assumed we had forgotten?

Proverbs 17:9 says that when we cover an offense, we promote love. But if we repeat the matter, we’ll separate friendships. We became living examples of this reality as we rehashed this scenario over dinner. We dwelt on the faults, failures, and shortcomings of

our friends. Distance grew between us and our friendship eroded, eventually ending. The disappointment slowly poisoned our hearts against our friends fulfilling the promise of Proverbs 18:19, “an offended brother [friend] is more unyielding than a fortified city, and disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel.”

Maybe this is why the wisdom of Proverbs 17:18 leaped out at me. “A man lacking in judgment strikes hands in pledge and puts up security for his neighbor.” The New Living Translation puts it this way: “One who has no sense shakes hands in pledge and puts up security for a neighbor.”

In its technical application, this verse applies to securing the debt of a friend, making ourselves liable for the repayment to the point of jeopardizing our own security or freedom. We didn’t help them buy a car by co-signing a loan or anything like that, no jail time loomed, but we did shake hands over a pledge. We struck a bargain. And, according to this passage, that made us the ones without any sense. We were the ones lacking in judgment. Not our friends. Us.

That’s harsh.

But true. We had done something that God’s wise word counsels against and had dealt with the consequences. Our hearts hardened. Our attitudes became distrustful. For a long time, the poison of our own actions festered, tainting our ability to see future, similar situations with proper perspective.

God’s life-giving word was not the foundation of that first decision

but it has transformed our perspective and informed our future decisions.

Proverbs 18:16 promises a “gift opens the way for the giver and ushers him into the presence of the great.” Lending does not usher us into God’s presence. Giving does.

We are no longer on a First Lieutenant’s salary, but $1000 would still be a lot of money today. No matter the amount, we weigh every opportunity to be financially generous toward others carefully. If we can afford to lend it, we can afford to give it. Free and clear. No obligations. No expectations.

Choosing to give it as a gift lives into all of the counsel in the friendship passages. It honors and protects the relationships, keeps you together through thick and thin, and lets the other know that they, and not their possessions, are what you value. When we give freely, there are no chains of disappointment or resentment to bind our hearts and minds. No walls are built. Love wins. Best of all, when we give freely we are most like God.

Denise Roberts loves good food shared with friends, slobbery dog kisses, doing life with her husband, being a mom to grown-up kids, and encouraging others to connect the life-giving and life-sustaining Word of God with the messy places of our lives. deniseroberts.org

Spring Cleaning

By Lynne Saunders

It's Spring! Several things come to mind this time of year... 1) Thank goodness the cold is gone! 2) I love the flowers and budding trees! and 3) After being cooped up all winter, its time to open the windows, refresh, and clean... everything!

However, cleaning everything can be overwhelming. This year, don't stress. Strive to set realistic and achievable goals.

In the previous issue, I wrote an article titled “I'm the Kind of Person Who..." (If you missed it, check out https://www. encompassministriesinc.org/community-news for the Jan/Feb issue.) In it, I laid out ways to analyze 8 impact areas of your life and how to set goals in each area.

Spring Cleaning really checks the box in the “Home" impact area, although, with each accomplished task, every other area will seem uplifted. Did you know that it is believed that spring cleaning traces back to the Jewish Passover in which every inch of the homes were cleaned to remove all traces of leaven?

Get Inspired. Part of your spring cleaning may include redecorating. Any project, big or small, will include some research and shopping. Visit newly-built model homes to experience the freshness of well placed furniture, colors, and the lack of clutter.

Make a realistic plan. The first consideration is time. Can you tackle a different project each day? Will you clean on weekends because of weekday obligations? Or, can you work in tasks for an hour a day? A 5-minute start on that junk drawer will give you an immediate sense of accomplishment. Put those time slots on your calendar and/or to-do list. Whatever time you take will pay off big time!

Prioritize cleaning projects. While you might want to clean everything top to bottom, realistically, that probably won't happen unless you have lots of time and stamina to do so. Make

a list of those areas that need attention. Closets, drawers, and kitchen cabinets tend to be the first areas that come to mind. Deep de-cluttering areas that are visible to you and guests first will elevate your mood and inspire you to keep going. You will pat yourself on the back every time you walk through each room that you've paid attention to.

Prepare. Evaluate the tools and cleaning supplies you have or will need to purchase before getting started. Your spring cleaning efforts will quickly get derailed if you don't have what you need when you need it.

Get started. Turn up your music or put in your earbuds. Visualize what you expect to see and feel when you are finished with the project at hand.

Have a box or 2 on hand for items you decide to sell or donate. Throw away things that are heavily worn or broken, so keep a trash can close by.

If you are taking this one room at a time, don't skip the step of moving furniture to clean behind and underneath. Does the furniture need to be cleaned or repaired? Clean walls, baseboards, and cobwebs that you ordinarily don't have access to. Clean area rugs and floors.

Look up. Those ceiling fans most likely will have dust on the topside of the blades. Light fixtures will need a cleaned and perhaps bulbs need to be replaced. The room will be so much brighter with this one step!

Kitchens may take more than one day, depending on how much you want to go through, so give yourself grace if it takes longer than expected. Clear off counters. If you have granite, this is a good time to oil them. Decide what really needs to be kept out and in-view vs. what can be stored elsewhere. Deep clean and disinfect all large appliances. Is it time to replace the liners in

your cabinets and drawers? What a great time to reorganize. Throw out mis-matched food storage containers and out-of-date food. Count your silverware. Do you have all the utensils?

Bedrooms may take you more than one day as well. Time to replace those flannel sheets with cotton. Move the bed and furniture away from the walls so you can clean behind and underneath. Rotate seasonal clothing by putting your winter wear and coats in a section of your closet or dresser that you don't access often. Or, you can purchase tubs that fit well under your bed for extra out-of-sight storage. You might also store these under the bed in a guest room. What clothing items haven't you worn in the last season or two? You want the space, you NEED the space... donate them. Someone will love them.

Ladies, when was the last time you cleaned out your jewelry boxes? You may be amazed at all the single earrings you've collected. Don't throw them away just yet... you might just find the mate during your other spring cleaning events. This is also a good time to go through all your purses and bags. You might find buried treasure!

Deep cleaning bathrooms will include washing tubs and shower walls and doors. One of the hardest areas to reach is behind the toilet, so you might need a cleaner with an adjustable handle length. If you are replacing liners in these cabinets and drawers, it will give you the opportunity to throw even more away. If you

haven't touched it in a year, out it goes. You'll be surprised at how much space you have left! Resist filling those areas back up with unnecessary items.

Throughout the house, you might want to clean or replace worn pillows and out-dated window treatments. Wash windows and blinds. Upgrade kitchen and bath towels. Vacuum carpets, clean and shine hard floor surfaces. Dust picture frames, table lamps, and polish wood furniture. Replace air filters. Check to be sure your smoke and CO2 detectors are working properly.

Spring inside, and outside, is all about flowers. When your rooms are freshly cleaned, flowers seem to finish the job.

And, about the outside. Besides freshening up flower beds and outside planters, be sure to clean your front door, stoop, steps, and walkway. Add or change a wreath to make visitors feel welcome. Clean light fixtures. Does your deck or patio furniture need to be cleaned?

Two other areas you won't want to ignore is the garage and your car(s). Pick a pretty day outside and get busy. You know what needs to be done.

Inspired and tired at the thought? Hire professional help for those tasks that seem overwhelming. Be proud of your beautiful home! <><, <><

“Encompass IS….”

"Encompass IS..." Is an ongoing series that tells some of our clients' stories. Many times, there are challenges and struggles that test the strongest of grit and character. Real people with real stories.

“You Helped Us Get on a Healthy Financial Path"

When we first visited Encompass Ministries seeking Food assistance, we did not know what was happening with our paychecks. Money was just disappearing!

We had just bought a house. My husband and I both have good jobs making almost $10,000 every month, but were unable to save or pay off bills, which was affecting our ability to purchase food for ourselves and our two young children.

Then, we had a major plumbing repair at our house that set us back $1500 unexpectedly. We were so devastated and really didn’t know how to climb out of this financial hole.

Then, when we went to Encompass for what we thought was just food assistance. We met Ms Faith, who encouraged us to allow her to help us put our finances in place.

Ms Faith spent hours with us every week, helping us separate our needs from our wants, using a financial calculating tool that has proven to be extremely helpful

She also guided us on how to clear our credit card debts and auto loan while still being current with our mortgage, utilities and all the other bills, as well as building an

emergency fund (in case we have another plumbing emergency!).

The budgeting partnership program at Encompass Ministries has placed us on a healthy financial path and independence with a better focus towards wealth building. We will use this tool forever!! Thank you, Encompass Ministries!

Mar 15 and Apr 19 /

Write a Resume that Speaks Out Loud!

Sending out resumes but not getting any interviews? There is probably a reason for that. Learn how to write a resume that gets noticed!

MARCH 19th, 2:00 - 4:00

Interview Like a Pro!

Are you leaving interviews feeling great, yet you're not getting the job? Or did you stumble over an answer that you were afraid would come? Learn how to answer questions confidently.

APRIL 16th, 2:00 - 4:00

G. Cecil Pruett Family Community Center YMCA

Congratulations to the G. Cecil Pruett Community Center Family YMCA on their January 29th Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for their new E-Sports Lab and Wellness Floor remodel!

What is E-sports? Per Wikipedia, E-Sports is short for electronic sports. E-Sports often takes the form of organized, multiplayer video game competitions, particularly between professional players, individually, or as teams.

It is also one of the fastest-growing activities among kids today, which may actually lead to thousands of dollars in college scholarships - just like traditional sports! The Y offers E-Sports leagues and tournaments for kids 8 to 18, supported by trained Y coaches in a safe online environment. The new E-Sports room has desktops set up for kids to play games on, as well as a meeting table.

The ribbon cutting also featured a remodeled wellness floor, after 20 years, featuring new equipment, a cardio and a weightlifting room.

Need more incentive to connect with the Community Center? Here are a few things coming up.

In partnership with the Woodstock Lion's Club, the YMCA will host a Pickleball Party for “at risk" Middle School students on Saturday, March 16th, 10am to 1pm. This event will host 12 Middle School students who will have the opportunity to learn the game of Pickleball from qualified coaches. After students have a chance to use their newfound Pickleball skills in a fun game, they will have the opportunity to play video games in our new E-Sports Lab. All of the students will receive a new Pickleball Paddle to take home and use to continue improving their skills. They

will also have an opportunity to learn about our free middle school clubs and free memberships until June 2024.

The following Saturday, March 23rd, 10am to 1pm the YMCA in Canton will host their annual Spring Into Wellness Health Fair. They have partnered with Northside Hospital to present a wide range of fitness classes and health education for all ages. You will be able to find out if you have risk factors for High Blood Pressure, Diabetes and High Cholesterol and how to best control your health numbers through sensible eating and exercise. This event is FREE and open to the public.

On April 20th there will be 2 huge events taking place. At the Cherokee Outdoor YMCA in Woodstock, they will host the first annual “Not a Big Dill" Pickleball Tournament, starting at 8:00am. This tournament will take place on their beautiful new Pickleball courts on Lake Allatoona. For more information please contact Chris Strehlke at 678-880-3502 or Chrisst@ymcaaltanta.org.

Also on April 20th, all 18 Metro Atlanta branches of the YMCA will host their annual Healthy Kids Day event. This fair will take place in the parking lot and inside the building of the G. Cecil Pruett Community Center & Family YMCA. There will be games, bounce houses, healthy snack options, balloons, face painting, and so much more! Last year over 400 people attended. This event is also free and open to the public.

Get involved with the new G. Cecil Pruett Community Center Family YMCA • 151 Waleska Street, Canton • 770-3459622 • https://ymcaatlanta.org/locations/g-cecil-pruettcommunity-center-family-ymca

Diana Baker, Impacting Children with the Love of God

Many Christians can quote John 3:16 (KJV), “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” As Jesus walked this earth, He manifested God’s great love not only for adults but also for children.

In Matthew 9, we read that Jesus raised the young daughter of a ruler named Jairus from the dead and that He delivered a Canaanite girl from demon possession. In Luke 18:15-17, we see that Jesus rebuked his disciples for trying to keep children from coming to Him. He used that incident to teach them that the Kingdom of God is made up of those who have a strong, childlike faith.

Children loved Jesus! When He rode triumphantly into Jerusalem on what we now know as Palm Sunday, the children were among the crowd waving branches and welcoming Him. Matthew 21:15-16 tells us they even followed Him into the temple saying, “Hosanna to the son of David.” When the Pharisees were displeased with the children being in the temple, Jesus rebuked them by quoting from Psalm 8:2, which tells us God perfects praise from the mouths of children.

Diana Baker has always had a heart for children and a strong desire to impact them by sharing God’s great love for them. She has manifested that desire by teaching first grade and music in her church’s Christian school, and teaching children of all ages in the church’s children’s ministry. She has written numerous children’s stories, poems, books, songs, and Bible lessons. A number of her stories have been published in Focus on the Family Clubhouse and Clubhouse JR. magazines.

Diana grew up in the 1950s in a Christian home and accepted the Lord as her Savior at the age of ten. As a child, she loved singing songs about Jesus and listening to Bible stories. Her favorite song was, “Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam.” She was thrilled several years ago when she found a picture book containing that song. Her favorite childhood book, “Tell Me about Jesus," was written in 1944 by Mary Alice Jones and beautifully illustrated in water colors. In a thrift store many years later, she found the second book in the series, “Tell Me about God." Those books and other childhood favorites inspired her to begin what is today a huge collection of children’s books.

Diana recently published a children’s picture book entitled “God Loves to See You Smile," which features the beautiful smiles of children enjoying many wonderful things God has

made. The book was beautifully illustrated by Rupert (Pat) Johnston, who was inspired to feature children from a number of different nationalities. This book is the first in a six-book series called “God Loves You and the Wonderful Things You Do." Pat is currently illustrating the second book, “God Loves to Hear You Laugh."

Diana’s desire for this book series is that the books will impact young children—just as she was impacted as a child—by showing them how very much God loves them and wants to bless them. She hopes these books will draw children into a special relationship with God, through the Lord Jesus Christ, that will last throughout their lifetimes.

"God Loves to See You Smile" ends with these words: “Although you cannot see God because He is in heaven, He loves you and is watching over you. Whenever something makes you smile, look up to heaven and smile at God. He will see your smile and smile back at you.”

Diana and her husband, Larry, are the founding pastors of Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship in Woodstock, Georgia. They have served in ministry there for the past 44 years. In addition to ministering as Larry’s Co-Pastor, Diana also serves as the church’s Worship Leader, pianist, and Children’s Church Pastor. Larry and Diana have three married daughters, nine grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Their son is in heaven in the presence of the Lord.

The book, "God Loves to See You Smile" can be found at online booksellers.

The Story of the Starfish

By Sean Kaufman

As an instructor at Kennesaw State University, I have implemented a new approach in my classes following the events of COVID-19. At the beginning of each session, I ask my students to discuss a news story they have come across. My intention is to foster critical thinking skills, particularly in relation to the information they use to make decisions.

This practice has been ongoing for over a year, and I must admit, it has been disheartening. Unlike the past, where individuals would engage in lengthy debates around a dinner table and refer to encyclopedias for information, today's students simply turn to Google or voice assistants like Alexa to find instant answers. We are now inundated with an overwhelming amount of information, and it is crucial that we develop the ability to discern the information that truly matters in order to protect ourselves and our families.

This semester, I decided to change the theme of my classes. I started by sharing the story of the Starfish. In case you are unfamiliar with it, here is a brief summary: An older gentleman observed a young boy throwing starfish back into the ocean. He remarked to the boy, “What you're doing doesn't matter. There are thousands of them on the beach. You cannot save them all." The young boy picked up a starfish, tossed it into the ocean, looked at the older gentleman, and replied, “It mattered to that one."

Considering that I teach aspiring healthcare professionals, I thought it would be valuable to encourage students to identify starfish in their own lives. A starfish could represent

a person in need of a meal, haircut, ride, clothes, or simply someone to listen to them. We have starfish all around us, but do we take a moment to lift our gaze from our phones or shift our focus from ourselves to actually discover them?

The stories of starfish that my students share have been truly inspiring. One student who wasn't using her meal card, provides meals to those who are hungry. Another student takes a chair and a sign to offer free haircuts to people on the street. Students are giving rides to those in need and assisting their parents with various tasks.

It is remarkable when we encourage people to seek out the starfish in their lives. This mindset is contagious! As a result of their stories, I have paid for people in line behind me, tipped more generously than usual, and donated clothes to those in need. The examples are numerous; one starfish being thrown into the ocean after another!

I constantly remind my students of the underlying purpose behind this exercise. There may come a time in our lives when we feel that we cannot make a difference, when we question our significance and the point of it all. Perhaps you have experienced this before, or maybe you are feeling this way right now.

This belief is a lie that can be disproven by simply looking beyond ourselves. While we may not be able to save the entire world (primarily because the world must save itself), we can certainly make a difference in the life of one person each day, every day, for the rest of our lives. Imagine how extraordinary our community could become if we all

committed ourselves to seeking out at least one starfish every single day.

One act of kindness may not impact everyone in the world, but it will undoubtedly make a difference to that one person you touch—and that person can make a difference in another person's life. This simple concept can potentially influence many, leading to a transformation in our County, state, the United States of America, and eventually, the world!

I apologize if I got carried away with my enthusiasm. Can one person truly save the world? Well, one person already has. Jesus Christ sought out starfish, and he saved each and every one he encountered. His death demonstrated the depth of his love for you, and his resurrection exemplified his power to save you.

I am one of those he saved. If I find other starfish in need, I will do what He calls me to do. His instructions are clear as we read in Matthew 25:31-40 (NIV):

“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.

Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 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.’

Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’"

In closing, I wish you a joyful Easter. May God continue to bless you and prepare you to recognize the starfish that lie before you.

Sean Kaufman is a proud believer, husband, father, patriot, small business owner who lives in Towne Lake. He loves playing tennis, is an intrinsic life coach, author, part-time instructor at Kennesaw State University, and an infectious disease behavioral scientist.

Breathing New Life: Transplanting Shrubs and Trees

By Mike Smith, Cherokee County Master Gardener

Georgia's diverse landscape offers plenty of opportunity for home gardeners to add vibrant shrubs and trees to their properties. While fall is often considered the prime planting season, late winter and early spring present a valuable window for successful transplanting as well. With a little planning and care, you can give your new woody companions a strong start during this often-overlooked timeframe.

Why Winter/Spring Transplanting Works:

During late winter and early spring, plants are still largely dormant, focusing their energy on root development rather than leafy growth. This makes them less susceptible to transplant shock, allowing them to establish themselves before the summer heat arrives. Additionally, soil temperatures are starting to rise, encouraging root growth, while cooler air reduces water loss through transpiration.

Georgia's Specifics:

The ideal window for transplanting varies depending on Georgia's diverse climate zones. In north Georgia, the window might span from late February to early April, while south Georgia might see optimal conditions as early as mid-January to mid-March. Remember, avoid transplanting during periods of freezing temperatures or heavy rain.

Choosing the Right Plants:

Not all plants are created equal when it comes to winter/ spring transplanting. Opt for deciduous trees and shrubs, as they are naturally dormant during this period. Examples include:

· Trees: Dogwood, redbud, oak, maple, crape myrtle

· Shrubs: Azalea, hydrangea, viburnum, butterfly bush, spirea

Evergreens, with their active foliage, are generally better suited for fall planting. However, some cold-tolerant evergreens like arborvitae and cypress can be transplanted in early spring with careful attention.

Preparation is Key:

1. Select a healthy plant: Choose a specimen free of pests or diseases, with a well-developed root ball.

2. Prepare the planting site: Choose a location with appropriate sun and soil conditions for your chosen plant. Amend the soil if necessary to improve drainage and fertility.

3. Dig the planting hole: Make the hole about twice the width and slightly deeper than the root ball. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole to encourage root growth.

4. When dealing with containerized material we really want to open up that root ball and cut off any circling roots. If bottom of the root ball or sides are too thick with roots the center can also become dried out even with adequate watering. Use a cutting instrument to chop off the bottom of the root ball and cut into the sides to allow for roots to develop

5. We also want to remove as much of that container media as possible. If not removed, the concentration gradient between the container soil and our native soil is so extreme that the root ball can get waterlogged, or even worse if it dries out it does not rehydrate easily

Transplanting Steps:

1. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring it sits at the same soil

level (or slightly higher to account for settling) as it did in its previous container. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping gently to remove air pockets.

2. Water thoroughly and deeply. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid piling the mulch around the trunk.

Post-Transplanting Care:

· Water regularly, especially during dry periods. The first year is crucial for root establishment.

· Apply a light fertilizer in early spring and late summer, following the specific needs of your plant.

· Monitor for signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves. Adjust watering or provide shade if needed.

· Prune lightly to remove dead or diseased branches, but

avoid major pruning during the first year.

Additional Resources:

· University of Georgia Cooperative Extension: https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail. html?number=C989&title=tree-planting-details

· Georgia Forestry Commission: https://gatrees.org/

· Arbor Day Foundation: https://www.arborday.org/

By following these guidelines and adapting them to your specific location and chosen plants, you can successfully transplant shrubs and trees in late winter and spring, adding beauty and value to your Georgia landscape. Remember, a little extra effort now will ensure your new additions thrive for years to come.

Mike

Smith,

Cherokee Master Gardener since 2023

Seeds: Small, Yet Powerful

By Ginny Spain

Seeds pack a powerful punch when it comes to nutrition. They are very versatile and can be added to most dishes to enhance flavor and texture. I love adding chia seeds and flaxseeds to my smoothies in the morning and pumpkin or sesame seeds in my salads for lunch. All seeds are considered nutrient dense because they contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds. Most seeds are high in fiber, protein, and unsaturated fatty acids. Research shows an association between consuming seeds and a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. Seeds can be broken down into 3 main categories: grains and cereals, legumes, and nuts. This article will focus on the even smaller category of edible fruit, flower, and vegetable seeds. My favorites include chia, flax, hemp, pumpkin, and sesame seeds.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are one of the best sources of the plant-based omega-3 fatty acid ALA. Our bodies then convert ALA into the essential fatty acids DHA and EPA. Salmon and other fatty fish are the best sources for EPA and DHA, but lesser amounts can be made from botanical ALA. These are called essential because our bodies do not make them and can only be obtained through the foods we eat. They play a role in heart health, inflammation, and brain function. Chia seeds are also high in fiber, so they help you feel fuller longer and give your gut microbiome a boost as well! Use them in muffins, smoothies, or sprinkle on your cereal in the morning.

Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds also are rich in omega-3 fatty acid ALA, which is good for our brain and heart, but an even better health benefit is the type of fiber found in flaxseeds called lignans. They have been shown to reduce the risk of hormone-dependent cancers, CVD, and bone density problems. Another small study done over a six-month period suggests flaxseeds may be beneficial in reducing systolic and diastolic blood pressure. You can eat flaxseeds whole, but they are digested better in the ground form. Put them in smoothies, sprinkle them on yogurt or oatmeal in the morning.

Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds have a kind of fun nutty flavor and are used to boost protein, fiber and healthy fats in homemade energy bars or granola.

They contain vitamin E, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and iron. Animal studies have shown them to reduce the risk of heart disease due to their high amounts of the amino acid arginine, which produces Nitric Acid in the body. Nitric Acid makes your blood vessels expand which improves blood flow reducing the risk of plaque forming in arteries. Hemp seeds have also been linked to reduced inflammation.

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are excellent sources of phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, and iron. They are high in antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic acid. Antioxidants can reduce inflammation by stopping the damage to cells caused by harmful free radicals. Pumpkin seeds have been shown to be beneficial for treating men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition in which the prostate gland is enlarged. They can be used in a variety of desserts, garnished on salads, or ground into sauces.

Sesame seeds

Sesame seeds like flaxseeds are high in plant compounds, lignans and phytosterols which may reduce cholesterol and inflammation. Hulled seeds are also rich in bone healthy minerals calcium, magnesium, manganese, and zinc. Soak, roast, or sprout the seeds for better absorption. Hulled seeds also may help control blood sugar due to their high protein and low carbohydrate profile. Try adding sesame seeds to your stir fry, roasted broccoli, or salad tonight, you will be glad you did!

Consume a variety of seeds by adding them to what you are eating already. It is a straightforward way to add nutrient dense calories to your diet to achieve optimum health. As always, watch your portions and don’t overdo it. Enjoy and be well!

Ginny Spain Thomas is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who lives in Gainesville with her husband and two cats. She enjoys biking, long walks in the woods and gardening, she is a Master Gardener and volunteers with the UGA Extension Hall County Master Gardeners.

Strengthen Your Fitness Routine

By Jenn Bonn

Spring is a time of renewal and growth. We clean out the old and prepare for what is new and better. Why should your fitness routine be any different? Let’s look at the reasons to exercise, and then talk about how you can make your routine even better.

Here are some of the benefits of exercise, and good reasons why you need to be making the most of your routine.

• Exercise lifts your mood

• It builds self-esteem

• Movement reduces stress

• It improves sleep

• Exercise helps control addictions

• It strengthens bones

• It lowers high blood pressure

• Reduces feelings of depression

• Exercise can improve balance and coordination

• It stimulates the brain, boosts creative thinking, and fights dementia

• It has anti-aging effects

• Exercise increases energy and endurance

To have a strong fitness routine you should incorporate elements from the four key types of fitness. The four types are endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility.

Endurance activities are activities that increase your breathing and heart rate. These exercises keep your heart and lungs healthy. Aerobic activities include walking, running, dancing, swimming, biking, tennis, and other sports. You don’t have to train like an Olympic athlete to see health benefits, but you should try for 30-60 minutes three times a week. The key is consistency. Find an aerobic activity you enjoy or turn it into a social event by asking friends to do it with you.

Strength exercises build your muscles and muscle strength can make a big difference in your everyday life. Strong muscles help with balance and can help prevent accidents and falls. You can use weights, resistance bands, or your body weight to do strength training. Do two sets of 10-15 repetitions of each exercise. You can find exercises online, or if you belong to a gym ask the trainer to help you.

Balance exercises are important to keep us upright. When I

went to physical therapy for a knee injury, I had to do lots of balance exercises. Easy balance exercises include balancing on one foot, doing a heel-to-toe walk, and balancing on a balance wheel.

Flexibility exercises will keep all our joints moving and help prevent injuries. When I went to physical therapy, I was told that as we age stretching is not something we can leave out of our routine. Simple stretches that are held for thirty seconds will help keep everything moving.

Now that you have all four parts of a fitness routine, what else can you do to be stronger? Here are a few ideas.

• Try something new whether that means a class, a sport, a machine at the gym, or something else that shakes up your routine. I am going to do a race in March and that is going to be a challenge for me. I will be climbing up and down a mountain for 11 hours. I’m a runner and I would like to only run, but I know I have to train differently to do this, so I am starting to do more hills, and yesterday, I did the stair stepper machine for the first time. It wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be, and I am adding five minutes every time I do it. Climbing off the machine is the most challenging!

• Sign up for something epic, or if epic is too much, sign up for something slightly out of your comfort zone. What is something you always wanted to do, but thought was impossible? What if you are wrong? You won’t know until you try. Make sure to tell me about your adventure.

• Shake things up, make some goals, ask for help, and step up your fitness.

How strong you are depends on you and your attitude. What do you have to lose if you do something new, and improve yourself while doing it? Good luck!

Jen Bonn is the author of “101 Tips to Lighten your Burden" and “What I Hope for You" which are both available on Amazon.

“ The Healing Power Of Running" will be released in November. Her blog is Healthy Habits for The Holidays

Spring Soups and Salads for Warm or Cool Days

Spring will give us some warm days that will reinvigorate your soul. But, the chill is not gone. There will still be days and evenings when you will still bundle up. These soup, salads, and salad dressing recipes have been carefully ‘picked' for you... Do you have favorite recipes that you'd like to share? Be sure to email them to admin@encompassministriesinc.org... include pictures!

Equipment

• Stove

• Dutch Oven

• Cutting Board

• Large Sharpe Knife

• Measuring Cups

Citrus Salad

Fresh Ingredients

Cream of Asparagus Soup

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp. butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 lbs. asparagus, tough ends removed, cut into 1" pieces

• salt & black pepper to taste

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream, plus more for garnish

• Optional garnishes: chopped chives, dill, reserved asparagus tips, dollop of sour cream.

• 10 oz. package your favorite soft lettuce

• 1 Blood orange, peeled and thinly sliced

• 1 Naval orange, peeled and thinly sliced

• 1 Mandarin orange, peeled and cut into segments, or drained canned mandarin segments

• 1 avocado, pitted, peeled and sliced

• ½ cucumber, thinly sliced

• ½ cup roasted, unsalted pistachio nuts, out of their shells, roughly chopped

Instructions:

Instructions:

In a Dutch Oven over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Add asparagus, salt and pepper, cook approx 5 minutes. Add broth. Simmer, covered, until asparagus is tender but still green, 10 minutes. Using an immersion or regular blender, puree soup. Return to pot, stir in cream, warm over low heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with your favorites!

• 1 tbsp fresh mint leaves, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

• 2 tbsp orange juice

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

Equipment

• Cutting Board

• Large Sharpe Knife

• Measuring Spoons & Cups

• Large Bowl

• Smaller Bowl

• Slotted Spoon

In a large shallow serving bowl, put the lettuce on the bottom, spreading evenly. Next layer the sliced avocados and orange segments. Now its time to make the dressing. Pour all the dressing ingredients in a bowl and whisk well until all ingredients are blended. Or you can use an immersion blender, or a small canning jar with a lid - shake well to blend. Pour the dressing over the salad evenly. Lastly, sprinkle the pistachio pieces and mint leaves for garnish.

Inspired by delish.com

A New Twist on No-Mayo Broccoli Salad

Fresh Ingredients

• 1-1 ½ pound fresh broccoli florets, cut into small bite size pieces.

• 1 apple, your favorite, chopped (Granny Smiths with give you more tart)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice - evenly mix into the cut apple pieces to prevent browning

• 1 pint fresh blueberries

• 1 pint fresh strawberries, cut into similar sizes as the broccoli

• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped.

• ½ cup dried cranberries.

Instructions:

• ½ cup slivered almonds, sunflower or pumpkin seeds

• Optional: Of course you can add any of your favorite go-to broccoli salad ingredients such as crispy bacon bits and/ or shredded cheddar cheese.

Dressing Ingredients

• 1 cup plain, unflavored Greek yogurt

• ¼ cup honey

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Equipment

• Cutting Board

• Large Sharpe Knife

• Measuring Spoons & Cups

• Large Bowl

• Smaller Bowl

• Slotted Spoon

• Whisk

There are two ways you can do this: 1) Add all the fresh, chopped ingredients into a large bowl. Then in the smaller bowl, whisk together all the Dressing ingredients. When fully blended, pour over the salad mix and stir thoroughly with a slotted spoon. It doesn't get much simpler than that!

OR 2) You can add the dressing to the broccoli and stir to mix well. Then add your fruit, nuts, and red onion on top to show off your beautiful ingredients. Perfect for all your spring (and summer) get-togethers!

Inspired by kristineskitchenblog.com

Chicken Meatball Soup

Ingredients

• 3/4 pound ground chicken, can be substituted with ground turkey

• ½ cup fresh breadcrumbs

• 6 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan, divided, plus more for garnish

• 4 garlic cloves, 2 minced for meatballs, 2 thinly sliced for the soup

• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

• 1 large egg, whisked

• salt to taste, freshly ground pepper

• 2 tablespoons olive or avocado oil

Cooking Instructions:

• 1 leek (washed very well), white and pale-green parts only, sliced into 1/4" rounds OR substitute with a chopped yellow onion or shallots

• 6 cups chicken broth

• 3/4 cup Ditalini or other small pasta

• 2 cup carrots, cut into ½" rounds

• 2 cups (packed) baby spinach, remove stems. (Can be substituted with frozen spinach)

• Chopped fresh basil

Equipment

• Stove

• Dutch Oven with Lid

• Medium Mixing Bowl

• Large Sharp Knife

• Measuring Spoons & Cups

• ½" scoop

• Slotted Spoon

Meatballs: Mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, 3 tablespoons Parmesan, 2 minced garlic cloves, chives, egg, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and ¼ tsp pepper in a medium bowl. Form into ½" diameter meatballs (nets about 28).

Soup: Heat oil in a Dutch Oven over medium heat. Brown meatballs until their surfaces are golden. Remove from the pot and set aside. These will finish cooking when added to the soup mixture.

Add sliced leek (onions or shallots) to the pot and saute, stirring often, until they begin to soften, 2-3 minutes. Add the remaining 2 sliced garlic cloves; saute for another minute. Add chicken broth and 2 cups water and bring to a boil. Stir in pasta and carrots. Simmer two minutes less than the package directions. Add the meatballs to the soup and allow them to finish cooking in the next 2 minutes. Add spinach and remaining 3 tablespoons Parmesan; stir until spinach is wilted and Parmesan is melted. Season with salt and pepper.

Garnish individual bowls with chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Inspired by thekitchn.com

WE INVITE PASTORS TO

GET CONNECTED

Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association (CCMA) is a group of like-minded, likespirited pastors and ministry leaders who are devoted to claiming our county for Christ.

Meetings are the last Wednesday of each month, 11:30am - 1:00pm. Lunch is provided.

Food, Fellowship, Worship & Pertinent Topics

NEW LOCATION

Hope Church | 6576 Commerce Pkwy, Woodstock, GA 30189

Cherokee County MinisterialAssociation

- now celebrating 109 years

Are you a Christian trying to live your life of faith in the workplace and community?

“Meant to encourage and instruct its members in workplace faith and create opportunities for business growth through the development of relationships that result in the passing of referrals.” No fees, no attendance requirements.

Every Wednesday Morning

Networking: 7:30 networking 8:00-9:15 Meeting

Woodstock First Baptist Church; 11905 Hwy 92 Building A, Room A-250

www.woodstockchristianbusinessnetwork.com

Go to the blog to confirm location and for topic details

ENCOMPASS MINISTRIES, Filling Refrigerators and Cabinets in our Community

People Face Hunger... Every Day

There are empty refrigerators out there. We've seen them. Thankfully, Encompass Ministries is here to not only help kiddos like this and their families have good food to eat... Encompass also offers “encompassing" programs to equip adults to get on their feet so they can provide for their families. Will you help us?

Every Donation Makes a Forever Impact

Please consider making a donation today and becoming a monthly donor. It's easy online: EncompassMinistriesInc.org/donate