4 Christian Essentials

October 27, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Encouraging Word

An essential is something that is absolutely necessary. Psalm 100 mentions four characteristics that are necessary for the Christian.

1. The first essential mentioned in Psalm 100:1-2 is joy. The dictionary defines joy as completely happy or blessed. A Biblical definition is “the confident assurance of God’s presence.” There is a difference between happiness and joy. Happiness is an emotional response to external circumstances. Joy is a spiritual fruit that comes from within the Christian (Galatians 5:22). Joy can be interrupted by sin yet restored through repentance (Psalms 51:12).

2. The second essential found in Psalm 100:2 is Godly service. To serve is to perform duties for another and to have compassion for others. Galatians 5:13-14 says we are to serve one another, and we are to love our neighbors as ourselves. Joshua 24:15 instructs us to serve the Lord.

3. Another essential mentioned in Psalm 100:3 is humility. Here, the psalmist says humility comes when we acknowledge who we are in relation to who God is. He is our Creator, and we are His people. Romans 12:3 says not to think more highly of yourself than you ought. And James 4:10 says to humble yourself in the presence of the Lord.

4. The final essential found in Psalm 100:4 is thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is to express appreciation, to be grateful, and to have an attitude of gratitude. A thankful spirit helps keep you humble, honest, healthy, happy, and holy.

What is the basis for these Christian essentials? We see in Psalm 100:5 that it is the Lord. “For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations.” These are essentials that every Christian needs: joy, service, humility, and thanksgiving.

-Tony Cooper

Director Emeritus of the Jimmie Hale Mission

www.jimmiehalemission.com

October 27, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Special Feature

Growing up, the stained glass windows at Mountain Brook Presbyterian Church (MBPC) were as iconic an image of home to me as the Old Mill House across from Jemison Park. I attended preschool at MBPC, and my children attend today. I remember being small, sitting in the chapel and staring up at the rising organ pipes and the bright windows.

Installation of Stained Glass Windows 1 — Here is a look at the 1960s installation process of the stained glass windows in the church’s current location on Brookwood Road.

Installation of Stained Glass Windows 2 — The current church sanctuary was officially dedicated on September 21, 1969.

When I was small, the windows were bright and shining. I didn’t understand the stories they told, but I understood the feeling they gave me. It’s a feeling that is replicated every time I step into the sanctuary today, only now, perhaps it’s muted. Some of that is the result of the intervening years – a five-year-old’s sense of wonder isn’t something that can be fully replicated as an adult. But some of it is simply physical. The coverings on the exterior of the windows – lovingly installed 40 years ago to protect them – have significantly aged. The windows themselves are as they ever were- vibrant, proud and inspiring. But they are dim. The protective coverings have yellowed and weathered, and the windows – crafted to catch the light – are no longer allowed to shine as they are meant to do.

And so, it’s now time for our community to step up and restore these windows to their original beauty. These very windows have been inspiring the community to band together in one way or another for nearly 80 years. Originally, the windows were installed when the church was in downtown Birmingham, on the northeast corner of Sixth Avenue North and 18th Street. Installation began in 1947 and was completed in 1959. Ten years later, after Red Mountain Expressway was built and much of the congregation moved “over the mountain,” the church moved to its current location on Brookwood Road. They built their new sanctuary around the stained glass windows, painstakingly brought from their building on Sixth Avenue. On September 21, 1969, the completed structure was formally dedicated with worship, and the vibrant windows depicting the life of Christ we’ve all seen when driving down Brookwood Road, proudly stood as a symbol of faith and community.

The church is raising the funds necessary to replace the current coverings with new, clear coverings that will allow the windows to display their true glory. But they need our help.

Whether you attend the church or not, this place is a central part of our community. To help them reach their budget of $250,000 to restore the windows, click here or visit in person at the church office at 3405 Brookwood Road, Mountain Brook, AL 35223.

-Ann McEwen

October 27, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Christmas Gift Guide 2025

Piddlin Art & Antique is the perfect blend of old and new items. Art, antiques, jewelry, home décor, gifts and pottery items are just some of the many things you’ll find while browsing through the store. Piddlin Art & Antique in Vestavia is the home of many vendors that all have their own creative displays you can shop and find a unique array of items that will surely appeal to your senses for yourself or someone special. Check off more than one person on your Christmas shopping list by stopping at this one-of-a-kind gift shop. They even have gifts for the guys like wallets and gadgets. The best part? You can save time on wrapping because they offer free gift-wrapping services for items purchased at the store. If you’re looking to gift an experience, Piddlin Art & Antique offers a variety of classes. To learn more, visit the store located at 2025 Kentucky Avenue, Vestavia Hills, 35216, call 205-977-0288, or email [email protected]. †

November 12, 2025October 27, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Mission Makers

United Way’s Meals on Wheels volunteers are making a big impact in the Birmingham area each day. The Meals on Wheels community is “dedicated to improving the lives of homebound seniors and disabled individuals throughout Jefferson County by delivering meals and hope to those who are unable to fulfill their own nutritional needs.”

Becky at Jerry's door — Volunteer Becky Hunter is seen here delivering meals on her Meals on Wheels route. She is a part of a volunteer group from her church. If your church or business is interested in establishing a Meals on Wheels volunteer group, visit www.mowjeffco.org to learn more.

Meet Becky Hunter. Becky Hunter is a Meals on Wheels volunteer of nearly 20 years. After retiring as an elementary school teacher in 2007, she “wanted to find something to do to give back and do some volunteer work,” she explains. Hunter’s church, Oakmont Chapel Presbyterian, is one of several area churches that supplies a group of volunteers for Meals on Wheels. Back in 2007, one of Hunter’s friends at church was giving up her Meals on Wheels route. “It was the perfect opportunity for me to step in and take over for her,” Hunter says.

A Day in the Life of a Volunteer. For Hunter, the day begins by stopping at the Hoover Senior Center to pick up the packaged meals. After placing them in insulated bags, she heads off to begin her delivery route.

Meals on Wheels prep 2 — Besides deliveries, Meals on Wheels volunteers are needed to prep and package meals for delivery. It takes as little as an hour of your time each month to participate.

As a Meals on Wheels volunteer, Hunter has developed relationships with the people she serves. Delivering meals to Jerry is one of her favorite stops. “He always has a smile on his face when he comes to the door,” Hunter says while smiling herself. She often takes a few minutes to visit with Jerry and discuss a variety of topics including Alabama football. “We’ve had lots of good conversations.” Jerry has shared with Hunter how much Meals on Wheels has made a difference in his life. “I think it makes a difference in the lives of everyone who gets Meals on Wheels. It gives them the opportunity to have a meal they don’t have to prepare,” Hunter shares. In addition to impacting the lives of those that receive the meals, Hunter says volunteering with Meals on Wheels fills her with a sense of pride in helping others.

Get Involved. Meals on Wheels volunteers deliver 5,000+ meals each week in Jefferson County. By volunteering with Meals on Wheels, you can be a part of something bigger than yourself. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to get involved in the community and get to know people that you probably didn’t know before,” Hunter says, adding that she has become friends with many people on her route, including Jerry. “I would encourage anyone who has the time to get involved.” Find details and sign up to be a Meals on Wheels volunteer at www.mowjeffco.org. †

Watch the video below to hear more from Becky Hunter about her experience as a Meals on Wheels volunteer.

November 5, 2025October 27, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Fashion For You

Every December, one color takes center stage and never fails to make an entrance—red. From cozy sweaters with festive wording to sleek trousers or a simple pop through accessories, red is always the statement shade of the season. It’s vibrant, classic, and instantly puts you in the holiday spirit. Whether you’re dressing for a Christmas brunch or a candlelit party, a touch of red says celebration without you having to say a word.

Black and white sweater 2 — Here are some of the festive fashion items you can find at Bash.

Merry Sweater — Stop by the store to see more options and meet the friendly team that is ready to help you make your fashion dreams come true.

This year, it’s all about textures that talk. Rich reds, bold or subtle plaids, buttery leathers, and soft knits are pairing up to create looks that feel both timeless and elevated. Try mixing a traditional tartan blazer with faux-leather leggings or a plaid skirt with a sleek satin blouse. The magic happens in the mix—when texture and tone play together.

Speaking of leather, a pair of black or brown leather pants can be your secret weapon this season. They add instant polish and edge, no matter what you pair them with. Dress them up with a shimmery blouse and heels for a night out, or keep it cozy with a chunky cream sweater and booties for an afternoon gathering.

And don’t shy away from sparkle—’tis the season for shimmer! Sequins, metallics, and glittering details can be tastefully done and totally wearable. A sequined top tucked into wide-leg pants or a metallic skirt paired with a soft knit is festive, flattering, and fun. When you sparkle, confidence follows.

Another effortless way to elevate your look? Faux fur. Whether draped over your shoulders with a dress or layered over denim and boots, faux fur adds that touch of luxury without the fuss. It’s cozy, chic, and perfect for those chilly evenings when you’re dashing between parties.

Blue and white sweater — This fashion season is all about textures that talk.

And remember, you don’t have to put these looks together alone. At Bash, we’re known for our personal service and for making holiday shopping easy and enjoyable. Our team loves helping customers create outfits that feel festive, flattering, and fun—so you can focus on what really matters: making memories this season. So, embrace color, texture, and a little sparkle—and let Bash help you shine bright all holiday long. Come see us at Bash—where style meets simplicity, and every outfit is made to make memories. We are in the heart of Hoover at 2539 John Hawkins Parkway Suite 105, Hoover, AL 35244. Visit www.bashboutique.net to learn more. Save the date for our Holiday Open House on November 6, 2025. †

October 27, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Healthy Living

The holiday season is a time we all get to enjoy being with family and friends, giving thanks for our blessings and indulging in our favorite holiday treats. While you are celebrating, please be aware of the most common types of holiday injuries and how you can protect yourself and others from a trip to the ER, with some tips from the team at Baptist Health.

Falls. It is natural to want to decorate your house, both inside and out, but this is how many people injure themselves around the holidays. Outside the house, make sure you are using a sturdy ladder and be sure not to place it at too steep of an angle. It’s also a good idea to have someone hold the ladder to keep it steady. If you do fall, someone will know right away and be able to assist you or call for help. Inside the house, make sure you use a small ladder or step stool that’s in good condition, as opposed to standing on a chair or other unsteady object.

Auto accidents. Traffic increases during the holidays as motorists travel to and from holiday parties/celebrations or simply take a road trip to visit friends and family. You may be more likely to encounter drivers who have been drinking or are more easily distracted. So be alert, use your seatbelt and ensure children are in appropriate car seats.

Burns. Thanksgiving is known as a holiday that revolves around cooking and eating. The “chaos” in the kitchen can often be a distraction with less attention devoted to hot items that could spill and cause severe burns. Try to keep the kitchen traffic to a minimum. Candles are often used to decorate during the holidays, and they also can be burn and fire hazards. Be cautious and keep them away from anything flammable, like Christmas trees or drapes, and be sure not to leave them burning in empty rooms. We also see many burns caused by the 400-degree oil used for deep frying turkeys, so be extremely cautious if that’s on your Thanksgiving menu.

Choking. When buying gifts for children, make sure they are age-appropriate. Pay close attention to those toys that may be a choking hazard to toddlers. It’s also a good idea to research all toys (online is often an easy way) before buying them and check for safety recalls.

By following these safety tips, you and your loved ones can enjoy a holiday season that’s fun — and safe! At Baptist Health, we know emergencies can happen – anytime, anywhere. With ER locations throughout central Alabama, we’re ready to provide care in any emergency. Learn more online or find an emergency room near you at BaptistHealthAL.com/ER. †

October 27, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Healthy Living

The words spewed out like a volcanic eruption, “Just leave me alone!” David’s outburst leaves his wife, Lisa, frozen in confusion. After all, she only asked about his day. Lisa retorts, “Fine! Forgive me for trying to be a loving wife!” What Lisa did not know was that David had just lost his job. Have you experienced a similar exchange in your marriage? Perhaps your mate’s insensitive words cut you to the heart and triggered a reciprocal response from you. Here are two ways to cool heated moments in marriage before things get out of hand.

Press Pause. In physics, every action is met with an equal and opposite reaction. However, in the arena of human communication, God offers a way to defy the natural inclination to retaliate when wronged — slow down, listen, and think before speaking. The Bible instructs, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19b).

At the onset of tension in your conversations, try this three-step strategy:

Resist talking for a few minutes (Proverbs 17:18). Your goal is to let God prepare your mind for a righteous reply, not to give your spouse the “silent treatment.”
Regulate your temper. An agitated heart hampers your ability to focus on facts rather than feelings (Proverbs 15:18).
Restart the conversation. Having composed your heart and mind, you are ready to listen with openness and speak with thoughtfulness.

Emotional intermissions help quell tense moments and set the stage for cordial dialogue.

Sweeten Your Speech. How you speak overshadows what you say. King Solomon writes, “Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body” (Proverbs 16:24, ESV). The Hebrew word for gracious means pleasantness. Sweet words are best served with a pleasant demeanor.

Envision your tone as a jar covered in mud, and your words as pure golden honey. Now imagine pouring the honey into the dirty jar and offering it to your spouse as a gift. You may use the right words, but if your tone is frigid or drips with sarcasm, your spouse will miss the intended message. As a couple, you face the challenge of maintaining mutual love and peace in an unloving and contentious world. When pressures threaten to burn down your conversations, ask God to quiet your tongue, calm your emotions, and fill your mouth with words sweetened by His gracious love.

-Dr. Alonza Jones

Teacher, Writer, Speaker

President and Co-founder, Biblical Marriage Institute

Follow: @biblicalmarriageinstitute

October 27, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Healthy Living

If you’re like many people, you’ve learned to smile through the stress, show up for everyone else, and keep life running smoothly — even when your heart feels heavy. You tell yourself, I just need to push through a little longer, but deep down, you know something has to change.

The truth is, even strong people struggle. You can love God, serve others faithfully, and still feel exhausted, anxious, or discouraged. The Bible never said we have to carry our burdens alone. In fact, Scripture reminds us, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22, NLT)

At Fortify Christian Counseling, we often meet people who seem to have it all together — loving parents, dedicated leaders, successful professionals — yet inside, they’re worn thin. Their prayers feel dry, their emotions are raw, and their joy has quietly faded. What they need isn’t judgment or another to-do list. They need space to breathe, process, and begin healing with someone who understands both the clinical and spiritual dimensions of what they’re facing.

Counseling doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means you’re wise enough to stop pretending everything is fine. It’s an act of faith to admit that your soul is tired and you need support. God often brings healing through honest conversations, renewed perspective, and Christ-centered care.

If you’ve been putting off counseling because you think things “aren’t bad enough,” maybe this is your sign. Don’t wait until stress becomes burnout or heartache becomes hopelessness. Sometimes the bravest step you can take is simply picking up the phone.

You don’t have to face life’s battles alone. Let this be the season you reach out and rediscover hope, strength, and peace in Christ. At Fortify Christian Counseling, we’re here to help you do just that.

– Dr. Jerra Dooley

Fortify Christian Counseling

Integrating Biblical Truth with Clinical Excellence

📞 205-974-2124

🌐 www.FortifyChristianCounseling.com

October 27, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Healthy Living

Brought to you by: Community Partner Still Waters Counseling and Education Center, www.mystillwaters.org

Still Waters Counseling and Education Center offers Christ-centered, professional counseling for individuals, couples, and families. Donda Goodson, MA, LPC-S is one of the Still Waters therapists that integrates Biblical wisdom with clinical expertise to help her clients.

Donda Goodson, MA, LPC-S credits her mother for inspiring her to become a counselor. “She was and still is my inspiration for what I do.”

Cognitive Reframing. With over 30 years of experience, Goodson is passionate about helping clients develop tools that they can use to improve their emotional wellbeing. “There’s something called cognitive reframing or performative restructuring,” Goodson explains, adding “Our brains will, for whatever reason, often default to the negative.” She shares the example of a student studying hard for a test but receives a bad grade. They may receive the bad grade and think that they are a failure. “With cognitive reframing, we teach you to take your faults and then change it. What is the more realistic thing you could say? Oh, well, I didn’t do well on this test, but I learned how to study better, and I’ll be prepared for the next one.”

Regulating Emotions. Goodson also helps her clients learn how to regulate emotions. “Sometimes, emotions can be extremely high and inappropriate for what the situation is. And so, we teach clients to be more balanced and regulate those emotions better,” she explains.

Integrating Faith. Still Waters therapists integrate Christian faith and Biblical wisdom into counseling for those clients that desire it. “With spiritual or faith-based counseling, a person can utilize or access their spirituality in a way that can promote change,” Goodson says. When a client desires faith to be integrated in their therapy, Goodson often prays with them and dives into Scripture.

Goodson works with teens, adults, and families on a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum disorders, grief, stress-related conditions, parenting challenges, and sobriety support. “It’s really an honor to walk with somebody through difficult points in their life. To be able to walk with them through the process and then see the changes… You see hope restored.” Goodson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Alabama and also holds licenses in Florida and Virginia. She provides therapy in-person in Dothan and Birmingham and by telehealth throughout Alabama, Florida and Virginia. To learn more, visit www.mystillwaters.org or call 205-825-1423. †

November 12, 2025October 27, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Publisher’s Note

Happy Thanksgiving & Merry Christmas to You- Our Readers!

As we celebrate the season, all of us at Birmingham Christian Family wanted to do something special for readers like you who read and spread Good News with your family and friends each month- either sharing a print issue or reading and sharing one of our articles on-line. So, get ready to enjoy our Annual Jingle All the Way Reader Giveaways!

The fun starts on Friday, November 21, 2025 with

4 Weeks of Great Give-A-Ways all valued at $200 or more!

Week 1: Over Under Duffle Bag ($350 Value) from Mark’s Outdoors, Vestavia, www.marksoutdoors.com

To be entered to receive the Mark’s Outdoors Over Under Duffle Bag LIKE and COMMENT on the Giveaway Post on Instagram @cfpbirmingham. Post to your story on Instagram for an extra entry.

Week 2:$200 Gift Card from Bash Boutique in Hoover, www.bashboutique.net

To be entered to receive the $200 Bash Boutique gift card LIKE and COMMENT on the Giveaway Post on Facebook @BirminghamChristianFamily. For extra entries, share the giveaway post on your feed and tag three friends in the comments.

Week 3: $200 Refreshing Hospitality Christmas Gift Pack. Includes an autographed copy of Refreshing Hospitality: The Art of Welcoming by Anna and Tyler Nash, companion Refreshing Recipes book, Refreshing tea towel and two tickets to A Gathering—an evening of stories, seasonal drinks, light bites and conversation around the heart of hospitality.

To be entered to receive the $200 Refreshing Hospitality Christmas Gift Pack LIKE and COMMENT on the Giveaway Post on Facebook @BirminghamChristianFamily. For an extra entry, share the giveaway post on your feed and tag three friends in the comments.

Week 4: $250 Trak Shak Gift Card to use at any area Track Shak- Homewood, Highway 280 or Hoover, www.trakshak.com.

To be entered to receive the Trak Shak $250 Gift Card, LIKE and COMMENT on the Giveaway Post on Instagram @cfpbirmingham. Post to your story on Instagram for an extra entry.

WINNERS for each giveaway will be announced EVERY FRIDAY morning on the Giveaway Post- November 28, December 5, December 12, and December 19, 2025. So be sure to LIKE our Facebook @Birmingham Christian Family and Instagram @cfpbirmingham pages.

A NEW GIVEAWAY begins EVERY FRIDAY afternoon- November 21, 28, December 5 and 12, 2025. So be sure you are Following us on Instagram and Facebook to be the first to know all the great gifts we will be giving away this year- all valued at $200 or more!

A BIG THANK YOU to our advertising partners who make the gift giving possible and most importantly help us share the gift of our Savior Jesus Christ with readers and followers every day of the year!

“The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14

-Laurie Franklin