New Resource to Help Local Families in Crisis

December 21, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Savalife Vestavia Building Dedication Goebel 020

Mission Makers

Local philanthropists Wales and Jean Goebel with Sav-A-Life Vestavia Executive Director Lisa Hogan at the dedication of the ministry’s new education building named in honor of the Goebels for their pioneering work in helping Birmingham families in crisis.

Sav-A-Life Pregnancy Resource Center in Vestavia recently dedicated its new education building at a ceremony honoring the ministry’s founders, Wales and Jean Goebel. The Wales Goebel Family Education Center will house Sav-A-Life ‘s rapidly growing programs for family support and counseling. Wales Goebel Ministry gifted the commercial building at 1484 McGuire Road in 2016, and renovations were completed this year. “We saw over 3,200 clients in our education programs this year,” said Sav-A-Life Executive Director Lisa Hogan. “That’s up more than 50% since 2016, but we had maxed out our space. This new facility will allow us to serve more families and add a broader variety of education topics.” Sav-A-Life’s family programs include one-on-one mentoring for expectant and new parents, childbirth and baby-care classes, relationship counseling and support groups. Their “Earn While You Learn” incentive system lets participants shop for maternity and baby gear in the onsite store, The Stork’s Nest.

The Goebels were recognized at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for their pioneering work and devotion to service. They founded Wales Goebel Ministry in 1967 to assist troubled teenagers in Birmingham. Wales Goebel Ministry started Sav-A-Life in 1980 to help women with unplanned pregnancies. Sav-A-Life Vestavia is now the largest crisis-pregnancy center in the Birmingham metro area. They served nearly 10,000 clients across all programs in 2017, and more than 74,000 clients in the past 10 years. Learn more at www.savalife.org.

December 21, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Best Books

All That’s Good

Author Hannah Anderson lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia where she says, "life is an eclectic mix of rural ministry, family ties, and trying to figure out how to keep our beagle in the yard." Photo Credit: Mary Walls — Author Hannah Anderson lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia where she says, “life is an eclectic mix of rural ministry, family ties, and trying to figure out how to keep our beagle in the yard.” Photo Credit: Mary Walls

Frederick Douglas once wrote that his thoughts of America sometimes moved from rapture and joy to mourning and loathing. His assessment of society should resonate with every person of faith, for our world is filled with both virtue and evil, the lovely and the hideous. If we are not careful and intentional, the gifts of God can be obscured by the ugliness that surrounds us.

Being intentional about how we view the world is the primary concern of Hannah Anderson’s new book, All That’s Good, Recovering the Lost Art of Discernment (Moody Publishers). Anchored on Paul’s command that we should dwell on what is true, honorable, just, pure and commendable, Anderson invites us to use discernment when we engage our society. We should endeavor to see the world as God sees it. Yes, it is filled with the obscene and the tragic, but it is also filled with grace and beauty. What we choose to focus on is up to us. How we speak to our neighbor and post on social media is also our choice to make. Is it true? Is it just? Is it commendable? How much better the world would be if every disciple of Jesus asked such questions on a daily basis.

Reading All That’s Good encouraged me to reassess where I focus my attention throughout the week. I should be informed about the world, speak the truth, and actively resist evil. But I should never let the darkness overwhelm the beauty that God has placed in my life. I must choose whether or not to live in proleptic gratitude, anticipating the day when God will obliterate all that’s bad, the truth will be fully known, and justice will be established forever. On that day Jesus will look over his redeemed creation and declare, at last, “It is good.”

-Darrel Holcombe, Owner
Sanctuary Christian Books and Gifts
Colonial Promenade, Alabaster

205-663-2370

January 24, 2019December 21, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

From the Publisher

TO SAY THANK YOU for reading and supporting the businesses that advertise with us and make spreading Good News possible each month, we have great giveaways to share with you!

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Celebrating 18 Years of Good News!

“Look to the Lord & His Strength, Seek His face always.” 1 Chronicles 16:11

December 11, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

See the “Magic of Lights” projected on Vulcan and his pedestal through December 23, 2018 at the top of each hour, beginning at 5 p.m. through 9 p.m. While at Vulcan, you will see the synchronized light show, hear a compilation of classic holiday songs and have the opportunity to visit the Vulcan Museum and gift shop with special holiday sales. Learn more athttp://visitvulcan.com/articles/vulcan-park-and-museum-lights-up-the-holidays-with-synchronized-hourly-light-show/#.XA69ahNKj5Y — See the “Magic of Lights” projected on Vulcan and his pedestal through December 23, 2018 at the top of each hour, beginning at 5 p.m. through 9 p.m. While at Vulcan, you will see the synchronized light show, hear a compilation of classic holiday songs and have the opportunity to visit the Vulcan Museum and gift shop with special holiday sales. Learn more here.

Looking for a great way to celebrate the Christmas season with the family? Visit Vulcan Park and Museum for the Magic of Lights: Vulcan’s Holiday Light Experience, December 12-23 from 5 -9 p.m. At the top of each hour, beginning at 5 p.m., guests will enjoy a 15-minute lively array of dancing lights projected on Vulcan and his pedestal and choreographed to delightful holiday music. The Anvil and Museum will have extended hours until 9 p.m. along with complimentary hot chocolate (while supplies last). Visitors can also shop for Christmas gifts at The Anvil gift shop featuring Red Dot Sale items and Birmingham themed items from local artisans such as Earthborn Pottery and Glass Studio.

This amazing show is made possible through the generous support from Kiwanis of Birmingham and their gift of the dynamic lighting package. Joe Saling, Director of Visitor Service Experience is thrilled to provide the community with a gathering place to enjoy the holiday season. “We anticipate this becoming a holiday tradition for the entire family,” Saling said. “Since we are the ‘Magic City’, it is only fitting to have a magical light show.”

Santa V will be present for photos from 5-7 p.m. at the light show premiere on December 12. Admission is $5 for 13 and up, $4 for kids ages 5-12 and children under 4 are free. Vulcan Park Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization which operates Vulcan Park and Museum on behalf of the City of Birmingham. Vulcan Park and Museum’s mission is to preserve and promote Vulcan as the symbol for the Birmingham region, advance knowledge and understanding of Birmingham’s history and culture, and to encourage exploration of the region. †

December 8, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

cool stuff double oak pharmacy christmas gifts wide

Briarwood Christian Bookstore. Decorate your home with a beautiful Nativity hand made in Anman, Jordan. It’s a gift that gives back in an amazing way. The olive wood pieces are from Glad Tidings Holy Land Designs and provide an avenue of economic support and stability for artisans and their families. The Holy Land Fair Trade Community Workshop began in 2001 as an outreach to provide training and employment to men and women who are deaf, disabled or disadvantaged. The Nativity sets are available at Briarwood Christian Bookstore where you will also find extra special gifts made by local artisan Missi Wesson. Wesson’s Mountain Laurel Valley Company offers candles, festive towels, handmade soaps and more. You will also find special discounts at the bookstore on a wide variety of 2019 calendars and Bibles. The bookstore, located inside Briarwood Presbyterian Church, has extended shopping hours leading up to Christmas. Visit www.briarwood.org/bookstorefor details.

Local artisan Missi Wesson’s handmade soaps, candles and towels make great gifts and are available at the Briarwood Christian Bookstore.

Purchase a starter set or add to your existing Nativity with these beautifully hand-crafted olive wood pieces made in Jordan and available for purchase at the Briarwood Christian Book Store.

Double Oak Mountain Pharmacy. Get your prescriptions filled while finding some great last-minute Christmas gifts. The pharmacy keeps in stock all year round a wide selection of candles includingCapri Blue Volcano, Aspen Bay and Greenleaf’s Cashmere Kiss. You’ll also find activities to keep the kids busy while out of school, including a Nativity Scene Kit that’s not only fun but also a great teaching tool about the reason for the season. Double Oak Mountain Pharmacy is conveniently located on Highway 280 at the Greystone Centre, www.doubleoakmountainrx.com.

Pick up a last-minute gift while having your prescription filled at Double Oak Mountain Pharmacy.

All year-round Double Oak Mountain Pharmacy offers a great selection of cards with inspiring messages sure to encourage family and friends.

This nativity scene kit available at Double Oak Mountain Pharmacy is a super hands on Christmas activity to do with the kids.

Wild Birds Unlimited. Give your home a festive look while taking care of your feathered friends. New this year, Wild Birds Unlimited on Montgomery Highway in Hoover, www.wbu.com/birmingham, has rustic wreaths made of edible bird seed. You’ll also find many other unique gift ideas including birdhouses, birdfeeders, decorative garden flags and more. The store is offering a 20% discount off one regularly priced item through Christmas Eve. Just print out the coupon found on page 27 of the December issue of Birmingham Christian Family, www.birminghamchristian.com/issues. †

Dress up your yard while feeding the birds from this edible bird seed wreath.

This motion sensor owl offers a festive way to keep predators out of your yard.

The birds will love to eat the seed that covers these bird houses and then enjoy them as a home!

November 25, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Are We There Yet?

The Hoover Climbing & Adventures Center is a part of The Hoover Metropolitan Complex, a world class, multi-sport and event facility located in Hoover, Ala.

Looking for a great way to be active and spend time with the kids? Check out the new, “Hoover Climbing & Adventure” at The Hoover Metropolitan Complex. The adventure center boasts 12 unique climbing elements including a “leap of faith,” skyscraper walk, Rocktopia volcano, and multiple race obstacles and is available for birthday parties, group, or corporate events and daily passes are available for purchase. “This new addition to The Finley Center is the perfect place for a family outing, group event with friends or team building with a company,” said Hoover Met Complex’s General Manager, John Sparks. “We look forward to welcoming visitors to Hoover Climbing & Adventure!” The minimum age for Hoover Climbing & Adventure is five years, and climbing harnesses are provided for each guest. Age-appropriate modifications for younger groups will be made by limiting group size and duration of events or admissions. Visit hoovermetcomplex.com/climb for more info about the adventure center. To reserve a spot call 205-739-7364 or email [email protected]. †

December 6, 2018November 25, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

christmas at the falls gilliland covered bridge off website

Are We There Yet?

The Annual Chelsea Christmas Parade on Saturday December 15, 2018 offers young and old a great way to celebrate the season and experience Chelsea’s “All About Family” atmosphere.

Nothing will get you more into the Christmas spirit than the 19^thAnnual Chelsea Christmas Parade on Saturday December 15, 2018. “It is a tremendous family event,” explains Chelsea Mayor Tony Picklesimer. “It’s a symbol of small town America that is unfortunately going away in many parts of the country but remains an integral part of our town.” The festivities start at 9 a.m. with local entertainment at the parade grandstand positioned at the Winn Dixie/150 Chelsea Corners Way. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at Chelsea Middle School and will include music from the Chelsea High School Band, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, a showcase of students from local dance studios, area boy scouts and girl scouts, and of course professional and homemade floats with riders throwing candy to bystanders all along the route. Over 70 groups, businesses and civic organizations will participate in the parade which will conclude at the Winn Dixie where a Christmas Village will offer refreshments and other items for purchase. The parade will be followed by an open house from Noon-3pm at the Chelsea Community Center, 11101 Hwy 47, where children will have the opportunity to have their picture made with Santa and Mrs. Clause as well as the famous characters from Frozen, Anna, Elsa and Olaf. The open house will also offer face painting, bouncy houses and games.

The Annual Christmas Parade is the largest Chelsea community event of the year drawing between 2000 and 3000 people. “It gives us a chance to get our citizens together but it also gives people outside of Chelsea an opportunity to come and see what Chelsea is all about,” says Mayor Picklesimer adding that the family event fits perfectly with the city’s long-time slogan, “Chelsea is all about family.” For more details visit www.cityofchelsea.com/christmas-parade-info †

November 25, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Church Leaders Clearbranch Rhoades and wife with Clearbranch Lead Pastor Vaughn Stafford

Senior Scene

Clearbranch member take time to thank Pastor Jerre Rhoades for his 14 years of service at the church.

Rev. Jerre Rhoades came to Clearbranch United Methodist Church (UMC) in Trussville in 2004 and has seen four lead pastors come and go. In that time, he has helped people in all manner of ways. From helping families through tough losses to overseeing the missions at Clearbranch, Rhoades has always been seen as someone that cares about helping other people. He is one of those people that always seems to find God’s hand in every situation.

Rhoades worked in manufacturing before answering the call into ministry 18 years ago. He began his role as a pastor in Arab and moved to Albertville a year later. In the years since then he has realized that being an associate pastor was a better fit for him because he liked having a more personal touch with the congregation during challenging times. As part of his role at Clearbranch, he has visited many members in hospitals and nursing homes and has been someone members could always turn to for prayer and comfort. “I have a passion for one on one ministry,” says Rhoades.

In October, Rhoades announced he and his wife Letha were leaving Clearbranch and moving to North Alabama to live with family. Members recently honored them at a churchwide reception November 25. This does not mean that Rhoades is done with ministry. As they settle into their new home, the Rhoades plan to continue to spread God’s Word and use their gifts to help others. “If Jesus isn’t going to retire on me, I won’t retire on Him,” says Rhoades.

-Mark Harvard

Clearbranch UMC, Director of Communications

www.clearbranch.org

November 25, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Photo Fun

Mothers from Prince of Peace Catholic Church MOMs ministry collected and packed diaper bags filled with newborn care items valued at over $2700 and donated them to the Alabama Prison Birth Project. These bags will go home with the caregivers of the babies from Tutwiler, giving them a less overwhelming start in caring for a newborn. Seen here is Chauntel Norris of Alabama Prison Birth Project and Maureen McDermott Williams of Prince of Peace MOMs ministry.

November 25, 2018 by Birmingham Christian Family

Photo Fun

More than 200 Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama recently attended STEM Fest at Camp Coleman in Trussville. Girls experienced hands-on learning about STEM through interactive exhibits provided by organizations around the state.

New Resource to Help Local Families in Crisis

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