Laurie Stroud
Christmas with our Granny Dera
The Home Front Our Southern grannies are such jewels. We love, honor, and cherish them for their wisdom, wit, and knowledge. We eat delicious food when our shoes are under their table, too. And they sure do love their grandchildren with a mighty big heart. But just because they love us doesn’t mean they don’t …
13 Ways to Give Back on Giving Tuesday & Beyond
Special Feature Giving Tuesday is December 3, 2024. Here are 13 great local ministries and non-profits to consider helping on Giving Tuesday and beyond. 1. American Village- Help this nationally pioneering classroom and American History and civics education center in Montevallo, Ala. continue to engage and inspire students in experience-based academic programs related to American …
Why Follow Jesus?
Encouraging Word John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” What qualifies Jesus to make such a statement? How is He unique? Why are Christians so dogmatic, unwavering, and convinced regarding Jesus? Jesus can make such a statement because He …
Hand-Designed Dresses on the Runway: Created for a Purpose
Youth News Over 40 area young women, who created and hand-designed their own dresses, recently walked the runway as part of the third annual Runway 2:10 fundraiser to benefit Birmingham based Created for a Purpose Ministries. Annie Getty was one of the young women who walked the runway at Birmingham’s Covenant Presbyterian Church. She is …
Jeana’s Story of Finding Freedom from Addiction
Mission Makers Since 1971, The Foundry Ministries has provided faith-based substance abuse recovery for men and women from all walks of life. Here is Jeana’s story of life transformation. “I never have to go back to that life again!” If you met Jeana and her husband today, you would never guess the struggles they went …
The Secret is in the Smile: The News Ms. Senior Titusville Branch Library
Senior Scene Since talking with Andrea Billingsley Whitfield in 2021, she has not stopped being an active member of her community. Whitfield was recently crowned Ms. Senior Titusville Branch Library. She also received a special award for reading over 200 books. The contestants of the elegant pageant were judged on an interview, introduction, activewear, talent, …
Memories of Christmas at Big Oak Ranch
Miracle Moments Brought to you by: Molly Maid of Birmingham, www.mollymaid.com/birmingham “For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 Some of my favorite memories of growing …
A Fresh Approach to Scripture: The Readable Bible
Best Books In a remarkable transformation, The Readable Bible presents God’s Word in a format that aligns with today’s reading styles, marking the first complete format update in over a century. Not only does this Bible retain the accuracy of the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts, but it also offers a visually engaging layout—making …
Navigating the Christmas Season: Finding God’s Peace Amid the Stress
Parenting Points While filled with joy and celebration, the Christmas season can also bring considerable stress. From family gatherings and gift shopping to meal preparations and decorating, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, with intentional planning and focusing on connecting with God, families can navigate this busy season while maintaining peace. Here are five ways. …
Two Gifts for You
Special Feature How will you respond when your mate gives you something special this Christmas? Will you wear a never-ending smile, or will disappointment and avoidance become your apparel? The pressure of finding the right gift can cause you to lose sight of what is important. Before you make your Christmas wish list, reflect on …
