September 2025

Gò0dNews

Keep reaching for what makes you feel whole.

Surprises. Triumphs. Breakthroughs. For every moment when words just won’t do, we give it our all so you can, too. Because there’s a whole lot of life to love, and the joy’s worth the journey. As you strive for what makes you come alive, we’ll be here — seeing, hearing and helping you feel whole.

About Us

WRITERS

Ande Frazier

Bill Silvers

Brittany Crabtree

Candyce Carden

Dorothy Teague

Filip Brunner

Garrett Nudd

Hayden Lanier

Heather Medley

Janise Copeman

Kristen West

Matthew Bowden

Zebbie Brewster

SALES

Matthew Ruckman

423-503-1410

Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com

DESIGN

Caleb Prytherch

Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

Melanie Abney

706-844-3818

FACEBOOK

GoodNews Rome

EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR

Sandra Gilmore

Email: articles.goodnews@gmail.com

PUBLISHER

Matthew and Bethany Ruckman

Cell: 423-503-1410

E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com

OFFICE

423-790-5378

WEBSITE goodnewscm.com issuu.com/goodnewsrome

Hello Friends,

We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.

GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.

GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!

Disclaimer

All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.

The Sin Nobody Sees

by Matthew Bowden

Rockefeller, the richest man of his era, was once asked, “How much money do you need to be content?” His response: “Just a little more.”

Jesus did not die on the Cross for you to be empty, but so you can be full. As Christians we are called not to move away from all desires, but to move to the RIGHT desires. It is an exchange, temporary for eternal, sinful for holy, that which is below for that which is above. Jesus died so that we might be full of LIFE. Life that never ever ends. Life spent with a heart that can be full of Him.

The sin of covetousness–the sin nobody but God sees–can enter when we feel empty, when we crave “just a little more” as Rockefeller quipped. Here’s an illustration: Just a few months after I bought my 2013 Silverado, a church member from the church down the road, told me something about his pastor. He said, “My pastor wants your truck.” I said, “Well it’s just a truck and they sell them everyday.” He said “NO, my pastor wants YOUR truck.”

I did confront the brother and offered to sell it to him because he had church members that saw the sin of the 10th Commandment in his heart. Thankfully, this brother repented.

How bad is it really to covet? Look at the rich young ruler in Luke 18. It leads us to death, being temporarily satisfied one moment at a time.

The same Hebrew word used in Exodus for covet is the same as the very first sin in Genesis 3. Genesis 3:6 CSB explains, “The woman saw that the tree was good for food and delightful to look at, and that it was desirable for obtaining wisdom. So she took some of its fruit and ate it; she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.”

All Eve wanted-all Adam wanted-was that one thing they were instructed they could not have. This is how fundamental, foundational, and simple the sin of coveting is.

This is why Jesus made obeying the law of God simple for us in Matthew 22. Matthew 22:37 CSB directs, “He said

to him, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’”

We can’t turn our eyes from the commercials. We can’t unsee the billboards. We can’t prevent all the ads on the internet. We can’t help but drive by the big homes. And we can’t just avoid the wives or husbands of others. So we must depend on the grace of God and the grace of God alone.

Let the Spirit of God rule in your life and in the innermost parts of your heart and let Him quench your thirst. Seek the grace of God for forgiveness, including the sin of covetousness. He can fill your empty heart and keep your focus on Him alone.

May we seek to keep the law of God, every word, to the glory of the name of Christ. The blessed hope for us as Christians is that one day in Heaven, we will never covet again. WHY? Because as a child of the King, everything will belong to us as the promised inheritance of our Heavenly Father. We as humans are sinners to the very core of our being. But, we have a mighty savior that NOTHING is impossible for Him, even washing your coveting heart as white as snow.

for Everyone

The Past Tense

by Hayden Lanier

In certain instances, I hate using the past tense. Allow me to explain. When someone passes away, we typically refer to them in the past tense. We no longer say that they are kind but that they were kind. We no longer say that they have anything but that they had something. We do not say that they will do something but that they had hoped to accomplish these goals.

It makes sense. In an earthly sense, the person who has died is no longer a part of the present, and they will not be a part of the future. But they will always be a part of the past.

the Lord as they ever have been. Not only this, but in the future we, too, will be with them.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 ESV is a passage I have been clinging to recently. It has given rest to my weariness, water to my thirst, and peace to my anxiety. In fact, this section of Scripture ends with a command to encourage one another with these words (verse 18). These verses give us reason to grieve with hope (verse 13). They tell us that since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, through Jesus, God will raise up those who have died (verse 14). On the day of Jesus’ return, the dead in Christ will rise first and then those who are alive. And “we will always be with the Lord” (verse 17).

Still, it sounds weird, foreign, and unnatural. They should be here with us, but they are no longer. We should be seeing, hugging, and talking with this individual, but now they are physically unable to do so. We think with sorrow of the dreams that were not accomplished and the years they will not get to live as we change our vocabulary to include “he/she was” instead of “is.”

But for the believer, there is hope even in death. If the person who has passed away placed their faith in Christ, they are not confined to the past. In fact, according to God’s Word, they are just as alive in the present with

This is a day told about not in the past tense but in the future. As believers, we look forward to the day when Jesus calls us to Himself. This includes all of His children; those who have gone before us in death and those who have remained behind in life.

So, when you are shocked by the sudden reality of death and abruptly forced to start using the past tense when talking about a loved one, remember that they will not remain in the past. If they knew Jesus, they are presently with Him and if you know Him too, then in the future, you will be also. Thanks be to God.

But if you do not know Jesus, there is no better time than now to give your life to Him. Partake of His free gift of salvation and enjoy the assurance of eternal life. He is our only hope in both life and death.

This article has been adapted with permission from Hayden’s blog, www.setyourmindabove.wordpress.com.

Hayden Lanier attends Shorter University and works at Cave Spring Baptist Church. You can find more of his writing on his blog, setyourmindabove.wordpress.com.

“ —Lynne B.

WStewarding Well: It Begins With You Money Moves

Ande Frazier with

e often think of stewardship in terms of giving back or caring for something that isn’t entirely ours.

That’s true, but stewardship starts closer to home. It starts with how we take care of what we’ve been given: our health, our time, our families, and yes, our finances.

You might think we are going to dive into how to tighten up your budget or create and use a spreadsheet. The truth, though, is that being a good financial steward isn’t about restriction, it’s about wisdom and intention.

Stewardship Means Protection First

Your financial habits are part of your legacy. Whether you talk about money or not, the people around you; your children, spouse, and friends are watching. They’re learning from how you make decisions, handle challenges, and use the resources you have.

Ask yourself: What are they learning? Are you modeling freedom or constant financial pressure? Stewardship or scarcity?

True stewardship isn’t about restriction or perfection. It’s about building the ability to respond wisely when life is unpredictable and to protect what matters most. It’s about asking: Am I prepared for the unexpected? Am I making decisions today that strengthen my tomorrow?

A response able plan asks questions like:

• If something happened to me tomorrow, would my loved ones be financially secure?

• If I couldn’t work for an extended period, how would I replace my income?

• If an unexpected expense came up such as a major repair or medical bill, could I handle it without going into debt?

These questions aren’t meant to spark fear, but to inspire readiness. They’re the difference between reacting and responding. It’s not about fear, it’s about being ready to act with strength when life gets unpredictable.

Habits Over Hype

Good stewardship also means cultivating habits that serve you long term. You’ve heard “money doesn’t buy happiness,” but it can buy options. The ability to say “yes” or “no” because you’ve allowed yourself flexibility is priceless. Here’s what that looks like:

• Spend with intention. Every dollar should reflect your values, not your impulses.

• Save with purpose. Automated savings is a discipline. Treat your future self like someone you’re responsible for.

• Invest with clarity. Ignore trends. Invest based on your timeline, goals, and risk tolerance.

• Give with joy. Generosity isn’t an afterthought. It’s the fruit of wise financial management.

The Legacy of Stewardship

Here’s the secret: stewardship isn’t about perfection, it’s about progress. It’s about asking, “Is this choice helping or hurting the future I want to create?”

The beautiful truth is it’s never too late to shift direction. The moment you decide to take ownership of your financial life, things change. You gain confidence, feel more in control, and get connected to what truly matters.

That’s what stewardship does. It frees you to live on purpose, with your money supporting your values instead of dictating them.

Final Thoughts

Here’s your gentle nudge: You were made to be a steward. You were given resources not to hoard, but to manage, grow, and share. Your money is a tool, and you have the ability to use it wisely.

Be a protector. Build strong habits. Stay aligned with your values.

And remember: You’re not just managing money. You’re stewarding your story.

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Does God Care About Purses?

by Filip Brunner

So, it’s September again. For my wife and me that means our anniversary and her birthdate. Anniversary gift, check, I paint and my wife seems to like my art. Next, it’s on to birthday gifts. After 32 years of marriage, I sort of kind of know what my wife likes. On this particular day, my eldest daughter and my wife’s younger sister took my wife out to eat and then shopping. As it turns out they were looking at purses. At the same time, I was at a local resale shop looking for something unique to get for my wife’s birthday.

Now, this is where things get interesting. You know that still small voice of God when the unmistakable communication of the Holy Spirit arrests you in your tracks and directs you to say or do something? Usually it is something like: “share the Gospel with someone, or pray for someone, or go help that person or simply go be a blessing.” But as far as I can remember, the Holy Spirit of God had never asked me to go look at purses. Does God care for purses? I don’t know if He does or does not care for purses in particular but I know without any doubt that God cares for us.

In the Old Testament book of 2nd Kings, we read a story where a borrowed axe head fell into the Jordan River and it would not have been found except for the miraculous intervention of God.

“But as one was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water: and he cried, and said, Alas, master! for it was borrowed. And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither; and the iron did swim. Therefore said he, Take it up to thee. And he put out his hand, and took it” (2 Kings 6:5-7 KJV).

Does God care about a borrowed axe? God loves the person who lost the axe head in the river. God loves His children. God loves me. God loves you. And, God loves my wife so much that when she goes to three different stores and she finds the purse she really would like to have but finds the price to be too much, that God in His foreknowledge sent me to a resale shop. My wife’s prayer was: “Lord, I could use a new purse.” My prayer was: “Lord, please let me find a gift for my wife’s birthday.”

God cares about every part of our lives, even the parts we think of as small and insignificant.

“He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” (Romans 8:32 KJV).

I am not writing this because I have interest in purses or axe heads, rather because we need to understand the extent of the love of God.

Our first priority is helping you take care of yourself and your

We want to learn more about your personal situation, identify your dreams and goals, and understand your tolerance for risk. Long-term relationships that encourage open and honest communication have been the cornerstone of our foundation of success. It’s about empowering people to create generational impact.

What’s In Your Hand?

by Dorothy Teague

The stories and parables in the Bible address every situation in our lives. If you have a question, the answers are all in God’s word. I started thinking about the stories involving rocks. The first story that I thought of is found in John 7:53-8:11 (KJV) where the woman is caught in adultery. The Pharisees bring the woman to Jesus to judge her according to the Law (of Moses) that said she should be stoned. What they really wanted to do was entrap Him if He opposed the law.

On the other hand, what He said to the Pharisees convicted their hearts. I often wonder what Jesus wrote in the sand that day. Did He start listing their sins? Did He write scripture, perhaps “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23 KJV). Maybe He wrote, “Judge not that you be not judged,” (Matthew 7:1, KJV).

Another story in the Bible is about a young shepherd boy who had honed his skill with a sling and a rock when defending his sheep from predators (1 Samuel 17 KJV).

But Jesus was way ahead of them! He bent and wrote in the sand while they were demanding an answer from Him, and then said, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.” As He stooped down once again and wrote in the sand, one by one they dropped their rocks and left, and when He raised up and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Hath no man condemned thee?” She answers no and Jesus tells her He doesn’t condemn her but to go and not sin anymore. Jesus extended grace and mercy to the woman but did not put His stamp of approval on her sin. He gave her a directive of what she should do from that time forward.

One day, he was delivering lunch to his brothers where they had followed King Saul to the war and there was a giant named Goliath challenging a man to come out and fight against him. David volunteered to fight him! He used only his sling and one smooth stone to take the giant down! He used what was in his hand: his skill and talent that he had been given by God and he claimed victory in the Lord’s name. David says, “…the battle is the Lord’s…”

Both of these stories involve rocks/choices. One started negatively but turned out positive because when Jesus steps in, the circumstances of our lives change! We, as Christians, must decide each day if we are going to sling rocks of offense to try to tear down our fellow Christians or if we are going to use what’s in our hands to slay the giants in our lives, with the talents that God has endowed us with. So, what’s in your hand? What can we use that God has given us to glorify Him?

Rome Church Directory

African Methodist Episcopal

Bethel AME Church

22 Nichols Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-0019

St. James AME Zion Church

3 Maxwell Lane Rome, GA 30165

404-307-7396

Summer Hill AME Church 1981 Kingston Hwy NE Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-7113

Anglican

St. Andrew’s Anglican Church 42 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161

Apostolic

First Apostolic Church of Rome

3213 Cave Spring Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-9551

Assembly of God

Redemption Church

105 Broadus Road NE Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-0277

Baptist

Antioch Baptist Church

4526 Big Texas Valley Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-7248

Armuchee Baptist Church

6648 Big Texas Valley Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-3169

Berean Baptist Church

8 Skyline Dr Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-9832

Blue Pond Baptist Church

1291 Morrison Campground Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-3296

Bryant Chapel Baptist Church 24 Shady Lane Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-9768

Bush Arbor Baptist Church

3290 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga. 30161

770-885-0779

Calhoun Avenue Baptist Church 1021 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-4431

Calvary Baptist Church 101 Broadus Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-1461

Cedar Creek Baptist Church 3219 Fosters Mill Rd SW Rome, GA 30161

Cedar Valley Baptist Church

3024 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-0978

Community Chapel Baptist Church

3733 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-4070

Desoto Park Baptist Church

1107 Cave Spring Rd. Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-6207

Dykes Creek Baptist Church

3181 Kingston Hwy NE Rome Ga, 30161

706-291-7790

16 // September 2025

East Rome Baptist Church

601 Cedar Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-8553

East View Baptist Church

901 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8250

Eden Valley Baptist Church

348 Eden Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161

770-608-8168

Emmanuel Baptist Church 1414 Old Dalton Rd Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-3939

Enon Baptist Church

3105 Turkey Mountain Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-5052

Fairview Baptist Church

2348 Old Cedartown Hwy SE Lindale, Ga 30147

Fellowship Rome Baptist Church

314 Burnett Ferry Rd Rome, Ga 30165

706-234-9416

First Baptist Church 100 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-6850

Flatrock Baptist Church 848 Cunningham Rd SW Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-9976

Flint Hill Baptist Church

3578 Wax Rd SE, Aragon, GA 30104

706-232-8121

Friendship Baptist Church

2283 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-4803

Garden Lakes Baptist Church 2200 Redmond Cir Rome, Ga 30165

706-234-6615

Greater Mount Calvary Baptist

445 East 14th St Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-5047

Hill Crest Baptist Church 2202 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8806

Hollywood Baptist Church 112 Lombardy Way Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-6642

In Focus Baptist Church 12 N Hughes Rome, Ga 30165

706-234-8963

Lakeview Baptist Church 80 Salem Dr Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-2149

Lovejoy Baptist Church 436 Branham Ave Rome, Ga 30171

706-232-1917

McFall Baptist Church

3011 Rockmart Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-5673

Mount Alto Church

1915 Huffaker Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-6222

Mount Carmel Baptist Church E 20th St Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-8777

Mount Olive Baptist Church

17 E Pennington Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-6413

New Antioch Baptist Church

4553 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-2248

New Bethel Baptist Church Weathington Dr Rome, Ga 30161

706, 291-8939

New Canaan Baptist Church

3 Excelsior St Rome, Ga 30165

706-291-1984

New Hope Baptist Church Hwy 156 Rome, Ga

706-235-0250

New Hope Baptist Church

399 Moran Lake Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-290-0507

North Broad Baptist Church 1309 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-2100

Northwood Missionary Baptist 4076 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161

Park Ave Baptist Church 531 Park Ave SE Lindale, GA 30147

Parkview Baptist Church 4 Wesley Drive Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-4431

PisGah Baptist Church Alabama Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-4431

Pleasant Hope Baptist Church

5935 Rockmart Road SE Silver Creek, Ga

706-235-2800

Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 500 N Division St Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-0731

Pleasant Valley North Baptist 735 Old Summerville Road NW Rome, GA 30165

706-232-6426

Pleasant Valley South Baptist

702 Pleasant Valley Rd SE Silver Creek, Ga 30173

706-234-1841

Providence Baptist Church 17 Burnett Ferry Road SW Rome, Ga 30165

706-291-0689

Riverside Baptist Church 48 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8114

State Line Baptist Church 8536 Black Bluff Road Cave Spring, Ga 30124

678-988-0339

Saint Paul Baptist Church

Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-5037

Second Avenue Baptist 823 E 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-3663

Shannon First Baptist Church 400 Fourth Street, PO Box 997, Shannon, GA 30172

Sherwood Forest Baptist Church 1 Goodman Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-6174

Shorter Avenue Baptist Church 1410 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165

706-234-8266

South Broad Baptist Church 508 South Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

Spring Creek Baptist Church 2636 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-1220

Springfield Baptist Church 113 Smith St Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-7217

Thankful Baptist Church 935 Spider Webb Dr Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8132

Three Rivers Church 2960 New Calhoun Highway NE Rome, Ga

706-766-0942

Trinity Baptist Church 1728 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-3368

Turner Chapel Baptist Church

756 Turner Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-8682

Unity Baptist Church 2261 Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-2184

West End Baptist Church 107 Mississippi Dr Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-1971

West Rome Baptist Church 914 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-9722

Wilkerson Road Baptist Church Wilkerson Rd Rome, Ga 30161

Woodlawn Baptist Church 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-4171

Word & Way Baptist Church New Rocketmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-8729

Catholic

Saint Mary Catholic Church 911 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-7014

Christian & Missionary Alliance

Missionary Alliance 306 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 20165

706-235-9190

Church of Christ

Church of Christ 108 E Callahan St Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-0675

Lindale Church of Christ 3035 Maple Road Lindale, Ga 30147

706-234-3027

Oak Hill Church of Christ

1500 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 20165

706-291-0351

Rome Church of Christ 121 Primrose Road

Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-4444

Church of God

Armuchee Church of God

4974 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-4414

Church of God of Prophecy

94 Huffaker Rd. Rome, GA 30165

706-528-4225

Lindale Church of God

585 Park Ave Lindale, Ga 30147

706-232-5676

New Life Church of God

210 E 18th St Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-0704

New Hope Overcoming Church of God 200 Nixon Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-4695

North Rome Church of God

1929 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-6687

Rome AOH Church of God 504 Decatur St Rome, Ga 30165

706-295-2999

West Rome Church of God UA 2827 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165

706-880-6895

Church of God in Christ

Great Joy Church of God in Christ

60 Shorter Industrial Blvd Rome, Ga 30161

706-766-6148

Disciples of Christ

First Christian Church

209 E. Second Ave, Rome, Ga 30161

Episcopal

Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church 101 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-9111

Foursquare

Rome Foursquare Church

308 Reservoir St NE Rome, Ga 30161

Full Gospel

Christ Gospel Church 619 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-7744

Independent Bible

Grace Bible Church 614 Dalton Rd NE Rome, Ga 30165

Interdenominational

Cornerstone Church 324 Mathis Dr Rome, Ga 30165

Ministerios El Vino Nuevo

4216 Alabama Hwy NW

Rome, Ga 30165

706-291-0500

Renovation Church 13 Redmond Ct. Rome, Ga 30165

706-314-9084

Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

3300 Garden Lakes Pkwy

Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-2281

Lutheran

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

3000 Garden Lakes Blvd

Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-7257

Methodist

Beech Creek Methodist

2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165

706-506-8980

GracePoint Rome

43 Chateau Court Rome, Ga 30161

Holsey Sinai CME Church

1233 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-7265

Lindsay Chapel UMC

9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161

Metropolitan UMC

700 Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8660

Mt Pleasant Church 4782 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-4350

New Bethel Methodist Church Reeceburg Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-9700

Oostanaula UMC

74 Battey Farm Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-292-0084

Rome First UMC

202 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8590

Rush Chapel UMC

1225 Rush Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-7986

Scott Chapel UMC

3 Chambers St NE Rome, Ga 30161

Second Avenue UMC

801 E Second Ave SW Rome, GA 30161

Silver Creek UMC

36 Reeceburg Rd SE Silver Creek, GA 30173

706-234-2518

Trinity By The River, Global Methodist

606 Turner McCall Blvd SW

Rome, Ga 30165

706-291-0033

Wesley Chapel UMC

9 College Park Dr SW

Rome, Ga 30161

West Rome UMC

1003 Shorter Ave PO Box 2247 Rome, GA 30164

706-234-6214

Messianic

Congregation Hallelu HaShem 1869 Floyd Springs Rd NE, Armuchee, GA 3105

706-936-6711

Nazarene

Rome First Church of the Nazarene 20 Glenda Dr Rome, Ga 30165

706-234-5023

Non-Denominational

Access Church

1905 Calhoun Rd Rome, Ga 30161

705-584-7497

Christian Church at Rome 2417 Shorter Ave Rome, GA 30165

706-235-0501

Glorious New Jerusalem Church 537 W 12th St Rome, Ga 30165

706-295-2045

Glory Tabernacle Church

300 Watson St Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-0888

Gospel Harvester Church 1246 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-290-9858

Greater Refuge Ministries 1604 North Broad St Rome, GA 30161

706-622-2448

Legacy Church 524 Avenue A SW Rome, GA 30165

LIFE Church of Rome

19 John Davenport Drive Rome GA 30165

706-728-3166

Lighthouse Church of Rome

Lighthouse Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-0864

New and Living Way Bible Church 59 Dykes Creek Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-233-9200

Northside Church

75 N. Floyd Park Rd. Rome, Ga 30165

706-233-9896

Rally Up International Ministries 2460 Shorter Avenue Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-8561

Shannon Community Church

600 First Street

Shannon, GA 30172

706-491-7112

Solid Holy Rock Deliverance Tabernacle

700 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8948

The Church at Rome 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-346-2733

Trinity United Christian Church 6 Deer Run Trail Rome, Ga 30165

706-204-8270

We The Church

1818 Kingston Hwy Rome, Ga 30161

Words of Faith Tabernacle 3134 Rockmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-314-9158

Orthodox

All Saints Church 615 Cleveland Ave Rome, Ga 30165

706-378-4474

Pentecostal

Cannon Temple Holiness Church

308 Porter St Rome, Ga 20161

706-233-9001

Christ Temple Holiness Church 1321 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-3787

Victory Temple Of Joy 118 Williamson St. Rome, Ga 30165

706-766-3865

Presbyterian

First Presbyterian Church EPC

101 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-6033

Seven Hills Fellowship 530 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161

706-530-1630

Silver Creek Presbyterian Church 6 Old Rockmart Road Silver Creek, Ga 30173

706-234-6862

Westminster Presbyterian Church 1941 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-8561

Seventh-Day Adventist

Rome Bethany Seventh-Day Adventist Church 307 E 14th St SW Rome, Ga 30161

706-292-0067

Seventh-Day Adventist Church 2526 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-4117

Cave Spring Church Directory

Cave Spring Church of God

19 Mill Street

Cave Spring, GA 30124

706-777-8348

Grace Fellowship Baptist Church

6635 Blacks Bluff Rd SW

Cave Spring Ga 30124

706-346-9786

Live Oak Baptist Church

5506 GA-100

Cave Spring, GA 30124

706-777-8566

The Empty Tomb

5630 Fosters Mill Rd SW

Cave Spring, GA 30124

Rehoboth Missionary Baptist

6 Rehoboth Rd SW

Cave Spring, GA 30124

706-777-3313

First Baptist Church 4 Old Cedartown Rd.

Cave Spring, GA 30124

706-777-3566

Cave Spring UMC

30 Alabama Street

Cave Spring, GA 30124

706-777-8624

Jackson Chapel UMC

301 Jackson Chapel Rd

Cave Spring, GA 30125

706-777-3750

Gò0 dNews for Everyone

Joyweeds

“If you tend to a flower, it will bloom, no matter how many weeds surround it.” —Matshona Dhliwayo

by Candyce Carden

Joyweed is an odd name for the small white bloom with waxy leaves growing on the shores of south Florida. The two words clash, creating an oxymoron. Joy is a trait we seek in life, while weeds are a nuisance we’d rather live without.

The flower’s name instantly reminded me of the children I met on a mission trip to Barahona, Dominican Republic. Never have I known a more joyful group, and never have I witnessed such dire living conditions. I worked with a group intent on making local drinking water safe. My daughter assisted doctors providing healthcare for people who walked miles for services.

Children romped over the grounds where our crew was based. Active and full of fun, they loved American visitors. Joy spilled from their shining eyes like the moonlight that shimmered across Neiba Bay, off the Caribbean Sea.

Whenever I took a break, a couple of kids crawled onto my lap to try on my sunglasses. Others stood behind me and braided my “yellow” hair. We tossed a dusty ball around. Two grinning boys showed off a new toy. Someone had converted a single serving milk carton into a makeshift vehicle by attaching four plastic twist-off bottle caps to the corners of the carton to serve as wheels. The boys proudly demonstrated how string looped through the top allowed them to pull the car across the dirt lot. Heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds” (James 1:2 NIV).

The Greek word for joy in this verse is chara, meaning “a state of delight and well-being, resulting from knowing and serving God.”

James instructs us to view our afflictions and tribulations with the highest of joy. God exposes us to them to provide opportunities to improve our virtues (James 1:2-4). And in Matthew we read, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10 NIV).

When we place our faith in Christ, He reveals Himself as a treasure that trumps loss, as a force that thrashes fear. That’s how joy thrives when we’re “in the weeds.”

Weeds are like poverty—invasive and ugly. They can choke life out of all they touch. Yet, here in this place of destitution, joy thrived.

You and I have never faced poverty like the children of Barahona live with every day, but seasons of loss and fear will find us. With God, we can rejoice through trials. Joy is the fruit of a right relationship with Christ and cannot be created by our own efforts (Galatians 5:22).

Jesus, help us realize that trials can and should be met with joy as we are strengthened in the knowledge that You are near.

“In the weeds” is an idiom used to describe someone who is overwhelmed with problems or overloaded with work. What helps you maintain joy when you’re in the weeds?

“Meet Me on the Midway” at the Coosa Valley Fair

Hello friends!

It will soon be time to “Meet on the Midway”! Yes, bring your appetite and your sense of adventure and plan to have a wonderful time at this year’s 76th Coosa Valley Fair!

Way back in 1949, a group of Exchange Club Members decided Rome and Floyd County needed a local Fair for our community to enjoy. And 76 years later, here we are still creating wonderful memories! We are so thankful that our Exchange Club still has an active member of one of the descendants of the original Coosa Valley Fair Founders! Mr. Scott Henson’s father, Paul Henson, was one of the original Fair Founders. Scott celebrates 61 years of service this year with the Exchange Club of Rome and the Coosa Valley Fair!

My family moved to Floyd County in 2003, and we started coming to the Fair in 2005. I am proud to say I entered some of my knitting projects in the Fair and was pleasantly surprised to win a Best in Division and Blue Ribbon for a knitted baby sweater and a Blue Ribbon for my

one and only pair of knitted socks! I’ve also won ribbons for some knitted scarves and a knitted handbag as well! So much fun!!!

And then a few years later the REAL magic happened…I got to ride a CAMEL at the Coosa Valley Fair! Who would have thought you could ride a camel at the Fair in Rome, Georgia!?! That is a memory I will never forget! We’ve also taken home a cocoon (or chrysalis) from the Fair and watched the amazing metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly, which we then released into the wild. We have such wonderful, happy memories of the Fair and I am honored to be the President of this years’ 76th Coosa Valley Fair.

Wade Shows will once again be bringing the thrills, games, and beloved fair foods to the Fair this year. Cotton candy, candy apples, corndogs, funnel cakes, boiled peanuts, pork rinds and don’t forget the roasted corn and much more!

It’s so great to see our community come together and support local non-profits by purchasing food and drinks from the food booths. Each of our Food booths are rented by our local non-profits and it’s wonderful to see the money coming in and helping our local community.

The Exchange Club uses proceeds from the Coosa Valley Fair to help many of our local non-profit organizations within our community raise funds for their various endeavors.

The Community Building houses displays from local schools, clubs, and veterans groups to promote and educate the public on what they do each day to help our community. This is also where locals can show off their talents and take home some bragging rights (ribbons) for their entries of quilts, pottery, woodworking, painted porcelain, arts and crafts, and homemade scarecrows. Baked items and home canning are also ribbon winners in this building along with the huge flower, fruit, and vegetable displays.

Located in a separate building on the fairgrounds, the Fine Arts & Photography Building will have fantastic displays to show off our local artistic talent from schools and community members, including a huge photography contest at all skill levels.

Our Village Building will once again be full to the brim with local small businesses looking forward to promoting their business in the old-fashioned way with one-onone contact with visitors. Go browse through the Village Building. You never know what treasures you may find there while you check out the tractors, lawnmowers, allterrain vehicles, and motorcycles. You can also visit various political groups and church groups from our community. I’m excited to share that Michael Frisbee will be back with his entertaining magic acts as well!

And last but definitely not least is the Special Events Building. This will be the loudest and most exciting building at the fairgrounds-with its audience of mothers,

dads, grandparents, family, and friends cheering on their favorites! It is home to our beauty pageants featuring all age groups where our Miss Coosa Valley Fair will be crowned. This building also hosts the cheerleading competitions.

We will once again celebrate our senior members of the community with fun activities early in the afternoon on Thursday.

The entire Coosa Valley Fair experience is designed for the community to have fun and make memories that will last a lifetime. Our very professional parking team will get you parked, and the efficient folks at the admission gates will get you into the Fair without delay. During your visit, our local police and security teams will be on-site and working diligently to ensure you have a safe time at the Fair.

So, mark your calendar: the Coosa Valley Fair runs September 30 - October 4, 2025. Bring your favorite people and have unforgettable fun making more memories!

I’m so excited to share our Fair with each of you this year!

Sincerely,

Kathi Watson

2025 President, Coosa Valley Fair Association

Are You Hangry?

by Janise Copeman

Most of us have heard the saying “hangry” used to describe someone getting angry when they haven't eaten in a while. In this case, I am referring to something a little different when it comes to our spiritual barometer.

I am referring to how easily we can be affected by our emotions when we haven't fed our spiritual man, meaning how empty our tank is and how we react when we’re not full of the things of the Lord.

Do you ever notice how our day can turn out so differently if we haven't spent time in the Word or spent time alone with the Lord like we should? An awful, unproductive day could have been completely different if we had fed on what was important first.

Galatians 5:16 NIV, “So I say, walk by the spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”

It's also important to take inventory on what we are feeding on spiritually. Are we eating things that nourish us or are we eating junk food that, as some would say, has no nutritional value or, in this case, no spiritual or eternal value?

I can always tell when I haven't filled my cup early in the day or even before bed and it will affect my day or my sleep at night. I carry more peace and comfort when I have spent that precious time with the Lord.

The saying is so true: you become who you associate with. It is also true with what you spend time feeding on. Whether it’s the music we are listening to, or conversations we are involved in, or what we are watching, this all feeds our soul either for the better or for the worse.

In Christianity, the phrase “the heart is the wellspring of life” emphasizes that our inner thoughts, desires, and motivations are the source of our actions and overall wellbeing, both spiritually and physically. Proverbs 4:23 NIV states, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” This highlights the importance of nurturing and protecting our inner core.

So I encourage you, as well as myself, to take some time and just take an inventory on what our priorities are. If they

are balanced in a healthy way, our diet, or in this case our thirst for more of Him and less of the world, may be a good place to start. Are we deeper in the Lord or allowing Him to grow and mature us compared to say, a year ago? That's what is really an eye opener to me! I ask myself: Am I continually moving forward with and in the things of the Lord or am I taking 2 or 3 steps back for every one step forward?

So next time when we think about our physical health and nutrition and avoiding getting “hangry,” let’s stop and reflect on how we could have prevented getting to that point. Eternally and spiritually, we can do the same as we look over our diet of what we are putting into our bodies, minds, and spirits.

This is something we all are having to work on as the world just offers us more and more easy fixes and counterfeits, things rob us of our time, energy, and well being if we allow it to. We have to just take a breath, step back, and seek the Lord's face, direction, and presence.

We can seem healthy on the outside but inside we might be sick or dying of malnutrition. What are we really hungering for?

When Love Feels Like Control: Turning Micromanagement into Connection

by Heather Medley

Amother watches her son fall apart again with tears spilling over something seemingly small, his shoulders tense, his little voice sharp with anxiety. She feels the familiar ache rise in her chest: “What did I do wrong?”

From the beginning, she did everything she could to protect him. She grew up managing the emotions of everyone around her and began doing that with him when he was born. She managed everything from his foods and his routines to his playdates and his emotions. She tried to outrun his pain by orchestrating his world. But now he’s eight, and he seems even more fragile. He checks her face for reassurance often. He melts down a lot. He mis-cues and pulls her in, and then pushes her away. She wonders, have I made it worse? She’s not alone.

What’s Really Going On?

Many of us who grew up in emotionally chaotic homes become expert managers of emotion. We learn to read the room, anticipate needs, and sacrifice our own to keep the peace. So when we become parents, our love often comes with micromanagement— not because we don't love our kids, but because we love them too much to risk losing them. But children don't thrive through perfect control, they thrive through secure connection.

The Science: What Co-Regulation Looks Like

Dr. Dan Siegel reminds us that children borrow our nervous system. When they are dysregulated, they need to feel us grounded. Dr. Gordon Neufeld teaches that children need invited dependence, not forced independence. They feel safest when they sense we want to be their anchor, not when we anxiously hover. Circle of Security reminds us that the child’s need is to feel secure enough to explore, and safe enough to come back.

The Shift: From Control to Connection

It is never too late to change the dance. God’s mercies are new every morning and not just for our children, but for us, too. Instead of fixing every feeling, we learn to be with the feeling. Instead of managing his fragility, we invite him to rest in our strength. Instead of fearing emotions, we remember that even Jesus wept. He didn't need to be fixed.

A New Script: Co-Regulation in Action

Here’s a simple example of how it might look to shift from micromanaging to co-regulating:

Old Script (Micromanagement):

Child: crying and yelling after a friend says something mean Parent: “Next time you can say this….”

New Script (Connection):

Child: crying and yelling after a friend says something mean Parent: soft voice, low posture, saying, “That really hurt. I get it. I’m right here with you. Let’s take a deep breath together.” holds the moment until the storm passes. “You’re not alone. I’ve got you.”

Tools for the Journey

• Presence over performance: You don’t need the perfect words—just your grounded, warm presence.

• Repair over perfection: When you get it wrong (and we all do), own it. Apologize. Try again.

• Daily rituals of connection: One-on-one time, shared meals, and calm evenings are where secure attachment is built.

• Practice being the “bigger, stronger, wiser, and kind” one: As Circle of Security says, this is your true role.

Final Word: It’s Not Too Late

No matter, it’s not too late. Attachment is not about perfection. It is about repair and return. And the beauty is: your child doesn’t need a perfect parent. He needs a parent who’s willing to grow.

“And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony” (Colossians 3:14 ESV). Love doesn’t mean control. Love means presence.

Run and Not Grow Weary

by Bill Silvers

In June 2025, I had the honor of competing in the 38th National Veterans Golden Age Games in Memphis, Tennessee. The event brought together over 1,000 veteran athletes from every state across the U.S.

By God’s grace, I won gold medals in the 200-meter, 400-meter, and 800-meter races, and a silver medal in the 1,500-meter. I give God all the praise, glory, and honor for the strength and endurance He gave me throughout the competition.

Running has become a ministry for me—a way to encourage others and share God’s goodness. Whether I’m at the starting line or the finish line, I hope others see not just an athlete, but a testimony of what God can do through someone who trusts Him. Each race is an opportunity to shine your light, no matter what the outcome.

The races are not just about winning. I thank God for the opportunity to meet, greet, and compete with fellow veterans—each with their own story of service, sacrifice, and resilience. Before each race, I pray, not to win, but that every athlete will be able to compete to the best of their ability, free from pain or injury. I also pray especially for myself, that I won’t trip and fall again.

During each race, I usually talk to God, asking for continued strength and focus. At the finish line, I thank Him for carrying me through. This experience is a true blessing, and I am grateful to participate. All glory to God!

I want to thank the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) for the amazing and well-organized Golden Age Games. It was truly an unforgettable experience.

Running holds a special significance for me, not only as a physical pursuit but as a deeply spiritual practice. It offers a powerful metaphor for my Christian walk, emphasizing perseverance, discipline, and eternal focus. Hebrews 12:1–2 NIV inspires this connection, urging us to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

This Scripture beautifully captures the essence of why I run: to foster a disciplined life that mirrors the steadfastness of Christ, constantly looking to Him as the ultimate guide and motivator.

Running reflects the Scriptural call to aim for more than just earthly achievements. As Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 9:24–25 NIV, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.”

This passage reminds me that while running, I am not just training my body but also cultivating spiritual virtues like self-control and determination, aiming for an imperishable reward in heaven. Each step becomes a reflection of my commitment to live according to God’s will, striving for the incorruptible.

The vitality and endurance found in Isaiah 40:31 NIV inspire my running journey: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

This promise of divine empowerment sustains me, encouraging a positive attitude even through fatigue and challenges. Running, therefore, transcends physical exercise; it becomes a celebration of the strength of spiritual truths, reinforcing my resolve to run my earthly race with the energy, courage, and joy that comes from my faith in Christ.

ò0 dNews for Seniors

The Treasure

by Zebbie Brewster

Iremember that I had encouraged my husband to do some cleaning up around the house. So glad he got motivated to do just that on that warm spring day over 40 years ago. Looking out the window, I noticed his truck full of all kinds of stuff he was fixing to haul off to the county dump, not far from our house. Standing by the bed of the truck was our next-door neighbor, my grandfather. He was enjoying looking to see what junk would be his treasure. It would be moved, but just up the road a little ways to his garage if he reclaimed it.

I guess now, as I think about it, he was just recycling. Recycling wasn’t something new for us—it was just a way of life. How many times had I turned back in that empty Coke glass bottle? I remember sitting on the front porch with my two brothers, waiting impatiently for the rolling store to stop by our house. I don’t remember how often it came, but for three young children holding onto their empty Coke bottles, it was not often enough. I remember that Payday was my favorite candy bar. I savored every bite. What a wonderful memory to visit me today.

I love to walk around outside of our house. It is so good—physically and mentally. Just that short distance of exercise helps me so much. One day, as I was walking around the house and the covered shed, I noticed a birdhouse that had been put into the junk pile. Learning from my grandfather to find that treasure and rescue it, I did just that—hanging the birdhouse back on the bent nail it had been removed from. I smiled in my heart, hoping that the house would become a home for that bird family who needed it. Removing the old nest out of the house, I hoped that would help encourage that mom and dad looking for a home.

I continued to walk and watch the house from a distance. It wasn’t long before I saw the new nest being built as I carefully peeped inside. The next thing I know, there were four little bluebird eggs inside the nest. I don’t remember how long it took until I saw those little baby birds with their mouths held open wide, waiting to be fed.

This week, as I was checking on them, the nest was empty. My neighbor loves to watch the birds from her back porch. As I visited her one day, she was admiring the bluebird sitting in the tree in her yard as the sun glistened off his beautiful blue feathers. Isn’t God’s creation amazing?

I thank God for His love that made me His treasure when I let Him come into my heart and rescue me also. He sought me and found me. Have you made Him your treasure?

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these other things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33 KJV).

May God bless you always.

Man, Am I Sorry for You!

by Garrett Nudd

My wife and I love going to restaurants. In Chattanooga, there’s a particular one nestled among a collection of charming art galleries and bed and breakfasts in the quaint, European-flavored Bluff View Art District overlooking the Tennessee River.

One chilly evening, we were enjoying a nice dinner with our daughters. We sat in the middle of the restaurant, which meant everyone who got seated walked past our table. I didn’t mind all the traffic because I love people-watching. Eventually, our food arrived, so I shifted my focus from people-watching to the delicious dinner before me. We were in mid-conversation, savoring our dinner, when a family passed by our table. The husband slowed down and then deliberately looked at Joy and each one of our daughters. He raised his eyebrows, shook his head, shrugged his shoulders, and blurted out, “Three girls, huh? Man, am I sorry for you!”

I looked back at my food, not even acknowledging his comment. His voice carried enough that those around us had heard what he said. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see people looking our way.

Meanwhile, our daughters and my wife sat there stunned. I’m not a confrontational person. I thrive on harmony. But this was a moment of truth. While our server was taking our payment, I got up and asked the hostess if she had a piece of paper I could use. All she had was an index card, but it was perfect. I spent a couple of minutes scribbling down my thoughts.

On our way out, as my family headed toward the door, I walked across the restaurant to his table and handed him the note. “Excuse me, sir,” I said, “this is for you.”

It read: “Dear Sir, I don’t know what you have against my family. Your comment about my three daughters was extremely inappropriate and in poor taste. I work every day to teach my daughters that they are significant, talented, and have the same opportunities as your sons. Your flippant comment was degrading and disrespectful, as if they are second-class citizens. I feel sorry for your daughter. I will pray for her and you. I hope she grows up to be strong and successful and never feels like her father is ‘sorry’ that he has a daughter.”

Woah! It was so unlike me, but I had to respond. My daughters had heard his comment, and they were watching—waiting for my reaction. I just couldn’t let it go. At that moment, I was Patrick Swayze from Dirty Dancing, and he was Jennifer Gray’s wealthy father. “Nobody puts Baby in the corner.”

As we got into the car and I buckled Spencer into her toddler seat, I heard steps and a voice as the man came running up to me in the parking lot.

“I am so sorry,” he said. “I didn’t mean to insult you and your wife and daughters. You have a beautiful family. I didn’t intend any negativity at all.”

I thanked him for reconciling and reminded him that our children are always listening (except when we ask them to clean their rooms or set the dinner table), and the words we say play a big part in shaping who they are, what they believe about themselves, and who they become.

I pinch myself because I get to be the father of three daughters and the husband of their mother. You wanna talk about MORE THAN! Every day, I consider the blessing and sacred responsibility of this role. It’s the greatest job and most exciting adventure I’ll ever have. And I am so glad God picked me!

G

dNews for your Taste Buds

Family Fun in the Kitchen: Layered Pudding and Cake Dessert

Creating a layered pudding and cake dessert is a delightful and straightforward activity to share with children. This dessert involves layering storebought cake, pudding, fruit, and nuts, allowing kids to get hands-on and creative while learning basic culinary skills. Layered pudding and cake dessert is a fun and engaging recipe to make with children. It’s easy to assemble, doesn’t require baking, and allows for plenty of creativity. Plus, the combination of cake, pudding, fruit, and nuts offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Whether for a family gathering or a simple weekend treat, this layered dessert is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 1 store-bought pound cake or angel food cake

• 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant pudding mix (vanilla or chocolate)

• 4 cups cold milk

• Assorted fruits (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, bananas, kiwis)

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds, pecans)

• Whipped cream (optional)

• Chocolate chips or shavings (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk according to the package instructions. Continue whisking for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully set.

2.Prepare the Fruits: Wash and dry all the fruits. Slice strawberries, bananas, and kiwis into thin pieces. If using blueberries, keep them whole. Let the kids help with washing and slicing the fruits under supervision.

3. Slice the Cake: Slice the store-bought cake into even pieces or cubes. Arrange the cake slices or cubes in a single layer at the bottom of a large glass bowl or individual serving cups.

4. Layering the Dessert: Spread a layer of pudding over the cake pieces. Add a layer of mixed fruits on top of the pudding. Sprinkle a handful of chopped nuts over the fruits. Repeat the layers: cake, pudding, fruits, and nuts until you reach the top of your bowl or cups.

5. Top it Off: Finish with a final layer of pudding. If desired, add a dollop of whipped cream on top. Sprinkle chocolate chips or shavings for extra flair.

6. Chill the Dessert: Place the layered dessert in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, serve the dessert directly from the bowl or cups. Enjoy the delicious layers of cake, creamy pudding, fresh fruit, and crunchy nuts.

Tips for Making Layered Pudding and Cake Dessert with Children

1. Safety First: Supervise children when using knives for slicing fruits and ensure they handle them safely.

2. Encourage Creativity: Let kids choose their favorite fruits and help with layering. They can even create patterns or designs with the fruit layers.

3. Teach Basic Skills: Use this activity to teach kids about measuring ingredients, mixing, and layering.

4. Keep it Neat: Use a tray or mat to catch any spills during the layering process, making cleanup easier.

5. Make it Educational: Discuss the different fruits, their colors, and nutritional benefits while preparing the ingredients along with the opportunities to show how math and/or chemistry is used.

It’s a New Day

by Kristen West

It’s a new day…

Thank You for Your mercies and kindness. Thank You for Jesus and His unwavering love. Thank You for never giving up on me.

(Lamentations 3:22-23)

It’s a new day…

Help me to pick up my cross and follow You, Not because it’s easy or popular But because it’s good and right.

(Matthew 16:24-26)

It’s a new day…

Help me to see people through Your eyes, Respond to people like You would, And love them like You do.

(I John 4:19-21)

It’s a new day…

I choose to lay all my cares at Your feet. Help me not pick them back up.

You are the only One strong enough to carry them.

(I Peter 5:7)

It’s a new day…

Use me to encourage someone today; To show them who Jesus really is, And to reflect Your heart in a meaningful way.

(Hebrews 10:24-25)

It’s a new day…

Please fill me with Your Spirit; Arm me with Your Word; Surround me with Your favor.

(Galatians 5:22-23; Psalm 5:12)

It’s a new day… I surrender all.

I choose You.

I love You.

(John 15:5)

for Kids

Grandpa’s Garden

by Brittany Crabtree

“Where are you?” called my grandpa as he walked through the rows of growing vegetables looking for me. “Where are you?” he said again as I sat down giggling hidden under the tall bean stalks. As he was about to call a third time, I popped my head out between the plants and said, “Here I am!” “I’ve been looking for you, my girl,” grandpa said. “Let’s keep tending the garden together!”

I love taking care oF my grandpa’s garden with him. He is tender and kind as he prepares the dirt and teaches me how to place each seed in a row according to their kind. Together, we plant beans, corn, carrots, cucumbers, and something special for me, sunflowers! As the summer carries on, with the warmth and beautiful light from the sun, each time I visit grandpa we go to the garden. We watch the leaves grow on the vines, water each row carefully, and wait for the vegetables to ripen and the flowers to bloom. When this happens, it is the most exciting time of all! It is the harvest season!

Grandpa and I walk through the garden and gather the ready to pick vegetables like cobs of corn, carrots, and cucumbers. It’s so fun to crouch down and crawl between the bean stalks and find all the ones that are ready to be taken off the vines. The tent of bean stalks is a fortress for me amongst the garden, a playful scene of hide and seek. In the garden, I am safe to be who I am, to help, to grow, and to spend time with my grandpa.

My time in the garden with grandpa reflects how God loves and cares for each of us. When God first created humans, He placed them in a garden. A place where they would be safe, have all that they needed, and be able to walk with God. When the humans God created chose to disobey God, this sin caused a separation between God and the humans. This caused brokenness and sadness, but God sent Jesus to come restore this relationship and make a way for each of us to be with God again!

When we follow Jesus and spend time with him, we are once again in a safe place to learn and grow. As my grandpa wanted to spend time with me in his garden, God wants to spend time with each of us. He cares for us and gives us all that we need. He wants nothing more than for Jesus to shine in our lives and help us bloom in Him like the beautiful flowers in my grandpa’s garden.

Amid this harvest time, my favorite thing of all is when the work of gathering is complete. We get to sit back and look at all that we planted together including the special thing for me, the sunflowers. Watching them grow and bloom into bright, yellow circles in the sunshine. Sitting with grandpa surrounded by the flowers reminds me of just how loved I truly am.

Jesus is there for you! When you need help and a safe place, He is there. When you want to grow and learn, He is there. Most of all, God wants you to know that He loves you very much!

There’s a dusty dirt road off in some fields that looks like any other road of its kind in the South. But, it’s truly not the same. It’s not the length or the condition or the age of this road that makes the difference, it’s the destination. This road leads to hope. There’s hope along that dusty dirt road because Safe Haven Ranch for Boys is waiting at the end of it.

Jason Slaughter of Community Share Ministries describes the road building, “We are building roads to make room for what God’s got coming. We don’t know just who or just when but we know the children are coming. We know God’s got something He’s working on and we’re making room for it.”

The Safe Haven Boys Ranch is nestled in the former Corn family farm. The Corn family never raised children there. They raised animals and vegetables and eventually, they’ve raised hopes. The Corn family bestowed the farm into the care of Jason and Ginger Slaughter of Community Share Ministries who saw a vision for helping boys on a working farm throughout their childhood by providing a caring environment, a sound education both academic and practical, and a sense of true belonging in a community through a family both at home and a welcoming church family.

Jason continues, “We have been called by God to take care of the children who have known great suffering and

have no place to call home. Safe Haven Ranch is dedicated to demonstrating Christ's love by creating a nurturing environment for children who have known great suffering. Our mission is to address both the physical and spiritual needs of these children, providing them with the tools to overcome emotional and mental health challenges while sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.

“We aim to inspire and instill hope in the children we serve, empowering them to grow and heal despite their difficult circumstances. Our organization believes in building a strong sense of community and providing a safe haven for children in need. Through our efforts, we strive to make a positive change in the lives of the children and families we serve, embodying the love of Christ in all that we do.”

Making a Difference

The Safe Haven Boys Ranch has plans to provide a long-term home to more than 70 children over its course, not including nine children who have already found their forever homes.

What Role Do You Play in Making a Difference?

Are you ready to make room, make a way, and make a difference? When you take the journey down the dusty dirt road to Safe Haven Boys Ranch you are immediately impacting children and nurturing not only the lives of these young people but the life of the community as well.

Five years of extraordinary senior living.

There’s no shortage of energy and excitement when you live at The Spires at Berry College — whether hiking around our scenic lakeside location, raising a glass at our pub for happy hour or exploring Rome’s charming attractions with friends. While immersed in Berry’s lively campus culture, residents have countless opportunities to attend university athletic events, arts performances and even lectures — not to mention form meaningful relationships with students. At the heart of it all, you’ll find the spirit of togetherness that makes our community one of a kind.

See why The Spires is not just a place to live — but a better way to live. Call 706-524-0600 or visit RetireAtBerry.com to schedule a personal tour.