Every four years, the world unites around the beautiful game. Flags wave, nations cheer, and for a few unforgettable weeks, soccer takes center stage. But beyond the goals, the glory, and the heartbreak, there’s another story unfolding—one of faith.
Fútbol Faith by Del Duduit is a 30-day devotional perfect for sports fans looking to deepen their faith.
In Fútbol Faith, Del Duduit invites readers to step onto the world stage and see the game through a different lens. This engaging devotional captures unforgettable World Cup moments while highlighting something deeper than the scoreboard: the faith that fuels the players behind the scenes. From celebrations that pause for prayer to quiet moments of trust in the face of defeat, this book reminds us that the greatest victories aren’t always measured in goals.
Blending sports excitement with spiritual reflection, Fútbol Faith shows how belief in God transcends cultures, languages, and continents—just like the game itself. Each story encourages readers to consider their own journey, asking what it looks like to trust God in both triumph and loss.
Perfect for sports fans and devotional readers alike, this book is a refreshing reminder that faith is always in play—from the first kickoff to the final whistle. Fútbol Faith releases July 14, 2026, and is available now for pre-order on Amazon or shop.ironstreammedia.com. †
Welcome to the heart of the South, where every meal tells a story, and every comforting recipe is made with love. In What’s Cooking with Danna, Y’all?, Danna Standridge invites you into the kitchen at Standridge Farm, sharing simple, farm-fresh, time-tested Southern recipes that bring family and friends together around the table.
What’s Cooking with Danna, Y’all? is Danna Standridge’s latest book release. Keep up with Danna on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok or on her website.
With tried-and-true family favorites, a few tasty originals, and plenty of memories stirred in, every recipe reminds us that food isn’t just about feeding the body — it’s about nourishing the soul. From big Sunday family dinners to authentic Southern cornbread, to fresh and tasty side dishes, to sourdough bread pulled warm from the oven, every dish is seasoned with love, joy, and a pinch of faith. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just learning your way around the kitchen, you’ll find warmth, encouragement, and a whole lot of flavors on every page. Inside you’ll discover:
Classic Southern comfort food
Easy, family-friendly meals made with farm-fresh ingredients
Homemade dishes made from scratch
Farmhouse favorites passed down through the generations
Heartfelt stories from Standridge Farm
If you love down-home cooking, simple recipes, and a taste of authentic Southern charm, this cookbook will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. So, grab your apron and come on in the kitchen with Danna and celebrate faith, family, and the joy of good old-fashioned Southern cooking one comforting recipe at a time. What’s Cooking with Danna, Y’all? is available on Amazon.
Click here for a delicious recipe from Danna and a heartwarming story too! †
Stepping onto the grounds of Montevallo’s American Village is like taking a trip to colonial times. The recently constructed Independence Hall opened to the public last fall and is dedicated to the memory of American Village’s founder, Tom Walker.
Here is a peek inside the new Independence Hall building at the American Village in Montevallo.
A Look Inside. The craftsmanship and details found inside Independence Hall, such as color schemes, furniture, and even fabric is as period accurate as possible. Guests are invited to walk through a brightly colored main entrance to a room adorned with seemingly painted portraits of American heroes that practically come to life and speak with the guests about gaining independence from Great Britain. Communications Officer Melanie Poole explains that this technological innovation has made the attraction quite popular with visitors. “Young people love it, old people love it, I love it,” Poole said. “It’s very high tech and engaging!”
Guests are invited to step back in time and learn about America’s history in a fun and engaging way.
Guests then journey through a replica of the Assembly Room, where they can witness a discussion with virtually recreated members of the Second Continental Congress about the Declaration of Independence, and even get to sign their very own copy to keep as a souvenir. “We really want to engage all of your senses,” Poole said. After guests and guides navigate a winding wooden staircase, they will find that the second floor is home to Cornerstones of Freedom, a new program allowing students the opportunity to debate the Constitution with James Madison and Patrick Henry.
While the Independence Hall Experience lasts a little less than an hour and a half, visitors to American Village have plenty of other educational attractions to take part in, as well as numerous events held throughout the year, including a huge Sweet Home 250 celebration happening on July 3-4, 2026 with music, arts, and food. Find more details about the celebration at www.sweethome250.com. The American Village’s regular hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with general admission costing $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and children ages 5 to 17. Children 4 and under get in free. For more information about Independence Hall and upcoming events, visit www.americanvillage.org.
-Nicholas Wetzel
Click below to watch a video tour of Independence Hall at American Village.
Mission trips offer transformative experiences for families to gain a heart for others and step out in faith, but not every family can embark on a traditional mission trip overseas. However, you can create a meaningful mission trip experience right at home, serving in your community.
Discuss the Importance of Mission. Start by discussing what serving on mission means to your family. Engage your children in conversations about serving others and why it matters. Share stories of Biblical figures who demonstrated selfless service, such as Jesus washing the disciples’ feet or the Good Samaritan. These discussions can help inspire a heart for service and prepare them for the hands-on activities you’ll undertake together.
Select a Mission Project. Choose a specific focus for your home mission trip experience. Consider areas where your family can make a tangible difference in your community. This could involve volunteering at local shelters, food banks, or elderly care homes. Research opportunities that resonate with your family’s interests and passions, ensuring that everyone feels excited and engaged in the process.
Plan Your Mission Project. Once you’ve identified a few projects, plan for your mission trip. Dedicate a weekend or a week to immerse your family in service. Start each day with a prayer, asking for God’s guidance and blessings over the work you will do. This reinforces the spiritual aspect of your mission and maintains a focus on serving others for His glory.
Reflect on Your Mission Project. Additionally, don’t forget to reflect on your experiences together. At the end of each day, gather as a family to discuss what you learned, how you felt, and what impact your service had on others. Encourage each member to share their thoughts and feelings, reinforcing the idea that every act of kindness, no matter how small, carries significant weight in God’s kingdom.
Make It a Regular Mission Project. Consider extending your mission service beyond the initial home experience by establishing ongoing community involvement. Encourage your children to take initiative in organizing monthly service projects or finding ways to support causes they are passionate about. This can instill a lifelong commitment to service and help them recognize that mission work can happen anywhere.
Creating a mission trip experience at home allows your family to grow closer to each other and to God as you serve your community. By investing in the lives of others, you get to be a part of building God’s kingdom in your city.
–Dr. Ben Birdsong
Director of European Expansion for First Priority Global Ministries
Walking into a dental office should feel welcoming, not stressful — and that’s exactly the atmosphere patients experience at Gooch Family Dental in Birmingham. From the moment patients step through the doors on Tattersall Way, the team works to create an environment that feels comfortable, uplifting, and genuinely caring.
Dr. Burton Gooch answered God’s call to dentistry when he was attending Auburn University. He attended dental school in Tenn. and then landed in Birmingham, where he has been practicing dentistry for 20 years.
For Dr. Burton Gooch, dentistry has always been about more than teeth. It’s about serving people well, building lasting relationships, and using his work as a way to live out his faith every day. “God has guided this journey from the very beginning,” Dr. Gooch shares. “We pray every morning for our patients, our team, and the people who walk through our doors. We’ve seen so many relationships formed and so many moments that can only be explained by God’s hand being on this practice.” After answering God’s call to dentistry while attending Auburn University, Dr. Gooch attended dental school in Tennessee before eventually planting roots in Birmingham, where he has now practiced dentistry for 20 years.
The Gooch Family Dental mission is “to provide the highest level of care to patients as an engaged, trust-focused team, aiming to exceed conventional expectations.”
Today, Gooch Family Dental has grown into a thriving practice with a team of five dentists who share both a commitment to clinical excellence and a heart for serving others. Patients can receive a full range of care including general, cosmetic, restorative, implant, Invisalign, sedation, and emergency dentistry — all under one roof. What truly sets the practice apart, however, is the culture behind the care. Every member of the Gooch Family Dental team — from the front desk to hygienists, assistants, and doctors — is committed to making patients feel known, valued, and comfortable during every visit. “We want people to actually enjoy coming to the dentist,” Dr. Gooch says. “Our team genuinely loves caring for people, and we strive to create an experience that feels positive, encouraging, and personal.” That commitment is reflected in the practice’s seven core values: choose joy, work for the greater good, have a grateful heart, bring positive energy, create excellence in small things, be generous to those around you, and remember that trust is our currency.
Click here to watch a video interview with Gooch Family Dental founder Dr. Burton Gooch.
Dr. Gooch also views dentistry as a mission field extending beyond the walls of the office. Each year, Gooch Family Dental hosts a Free Dental Day to provide care for individuals in need throughout the Birmingham community. The practice partners with local ministries, including Jimmie Hale Mission, to help connect underserved individuals with much-needed dental treatment. “Our goal is to love people well and serve with excellence in every interaction,” Dr. Gooch says. “That’s what we want patients to remember long after they leave our office.”
To learn more about Gooch Family Dental, call 205-991-9892 or visit GoochDental.com. You can also follow the practice on Facebook @GoochDDS or Instagram @GoochFamilyDental. †
Watch the video below to learn more about Gooch Family Dental and look inside the beautiful office located at 6807 Tattersall Way, Birmingham, 35242.
Looking for some great family fun? You don’t want to miss the City of Chelsea’s Annual ChelseaFest and the Big KaBoom. The free event takes place on Saturday, June 27, 2026 in a new location, 271 County Road 440 and Highway 280 next to Metro Truck Rental. You will find plenty of public parking adjacent to the event entrance.
The big finale of ChelseaFest & the Big KaBoom is fireworks at 9 p.m. June 27. Fireworks music simulcast on KOOL 96.9 FM.
The fun begins at 6pm. Enjoy a Kid Zone, vendors, food trucks and one of the largest fireworks shows in Alabama. Live music starts at 7pm with the Vinyl Junkies Band known for bringing high energy entertainment and a “wow” factor that makes crowds stay, dance, and sing along. The band’s music list spans 10 decades- mixing inventive arrangements, danceable grooves, and standout songs you won’t hear every other band play. Backed by seasoned, professional musicians with experience sharing stages with major artists—including Lady A, Darius Rucker, and Mother’s Finest, thevinyljunkiesband.com.
There will be a variety of food trucks in attendance and there will be tents, tables and chairs nearby where you can enjoy your dinner. You can also bring blankets and make it a picnic. You can also stroll through Vendor Alley where you will find local vendors, churches and businesses. The fireworks begin promptly at 9 p.m. and will be synchronized to music simulcast by radio station KOOL 96.9 FM. If you love America and want to celebrate in style with good food, good music, good friends and an amazing firework display make your way to Chelsea on June 27, 2026. For more information visit www.chelseafest.com. †
From the moving lyrical testimony of his beautiful song, “God Did It,” to the printed pages of God Did It and God Did It: The Children’s Book, Alabaster’s Sanchez Tanniehill has always had an amazing story to tell. With the help of his vivacious personality and his dedicated heart, Tanniehill has devoted much of his life to supporting stroke victims through his non-profit organization, as well as sharing his testimony with the world. This year, however, he is bringing his story to life for audiences to watch unfold on the silver screen.
The faith-based short film God Did It is set to release on June 27, 2026.
“God gave me a story, and I wanted to go between studio walls to reach more people,” Tanniehill said. “From a song to a book, I wanted to go farther.” The upcoming film adaptation of God Did It details the harrowing true story of the Tanniehill family relying on their faith in the Lord after Tanniehill endured a stroke at just six weeks old and miraculously survived. From there, Tanniehill went through the trials and tribulations of school before discovering his singing voice would change his life even further. From a Golden Ticket to Hollywood on American Idol to living the lifestyle of an award-winning Gospel artist, his tale is truly one to leave a person awestruck.
Sanchez Tanniehill is passionate about sharing his story with others to encourage them in their faith walks. Learn more about him at www.sancheztanniehill.com.
Working hand in hand with Matthew Wester, the film’s executive producer, Tanniehill played several roles throughout the course of the production from participating in casting decisions to being on set resource on location in Alabaster. “It’s different getting to see my story come alive from behind the scenes,” Tanniehill said. The official trailer for God Did It aired for thousands of people at the Winter Jam Tour Spectacular in February, with the film itself slated for a June 27, 2026 release with a watch party at Alabaster’s Cultivate Church. From there, the project will enter the film festival circuit and play throughout several church locations.
Besides spending his time involved in his own autobiographical film production, Tanniehill has kept himself busy exploring other creative avenues for his storytelling abilities. Set for a release date in the very near future, his upcoming single, “21 Days,” explains what he went through following the passing of one of his biggest supporters: his mother. “It will hopefully get people out of grief,” Tanniehill said. For more information on the God Did It movie and Tanniehill’s other projects, visit www.sancheztanniehill.com.
The 7th Annual Celebrate the Family Expo set for September 12, 2026 would not be possible without our Expo Sponsors! Read about each of our Major Sponsors and the services they offer to area families below.
Alabama Credit Union is committed to helping families feel confident about their financial future while strengthening the communities we serve. Our mission is to enhance the lives of our members and team members, strengthen our communities, and live our shared values every day.
From auto loans and checking accounts to financial tools that help you plan ahead, we’re here to support you and your family every step of the way. Visit our exhibit at the Celebrate the Family Expo to meet our team and learn more about the credit union difference.
Created by farmers, led by farmers and dedicated to serving farmers, the Alabama Farmers Federation promotes the economic, social and educational interests of Alabamians. Alabama’s rich farming history is more than soil, plants and animals. The farmers who earn their living from the earth have carved a big part of that history. When the Alabama Farmers Federation was formed in 1921, it became the unified voice of those men and women. Federation leaders founded Alfa Insurance in 1946 to provide fire protection for rural residents. Alfa has grown into a top-rated insurance company with over a million policies in force. With just 75,000 members in 1960, the Alabama Farmers Federation has grown to become the state’s largest farm organization with more than 360,000 members. The Federation’s “one voice” delivers a powerful message at the State House in Montgomery and on Capitol Hill in Washington.
The Jimmie Hale Mission exists to transform adults directly affected by homelessness, addiction, or unhealthy living, into those who lead purposeful, self-sufficient, and productive lives for the glory of God. Their promise is to provide pathways to recovery from the root causes of homelessness and unhealthy living through a proven process of compassion, guidance and accountability grounded in Christian faith.
Leafguard of Alabama has been around since 1966. After years of intense product research and development, Englert Inc. introduced the Leafguard brand gutter, a patented one-piece leaf and debris shedding gutter system. Backed by a lifetime transferable warranty (clog free guarantee, Scratchguard paint, and no pull away). Today, the Leafguard brand continues to be a trusted source for quality and reliability and continues to receive the Good Housekeeping seal of approval year after year.
Vulcan Termite and Pest Control, Inc was established in 1965 and is one of the largest family owned and operated termite and pest control companies in Alabama. Our highly trained technicians provide professional and courteous termite and pest control services for both residential and commercial customers. Vulcan retains a Board Certified Entomologist who regularly updates our training and keeps us up-to-date with the latest termite and pest control strategies.
Vulcan Pest Control technicians are committed to providing our customers with the most effective services to help protect your home and health. Our technicians customize each service to handle your particular pest control needs.
Media Sponsor WBRC 6 News has served the Birmingham community for nearly a century—starting as WBRC radio in 1928 and growing through major milestones in local broadcasting. From early live “Crystal Studio” radio shows to launching television atop Red Mountain in 1949, WBRC has continually evolved with new technology and changing viewer needs. Over the decades, the station expanded local news, introduced innovations like color cameras, electronic newsgathering, live microwave trucks, and a news helicopter, helping bring important stories to audiences faster and more vividly.
Today, that same spirit of service and innovation continues. Families should visit our Expo exhibit to learn about WBRC’s proud legacy, meet the people behind the news, and see how we’ve stayed committed to informing and connecting our community across generations.
For more than 25 years, Daniel Walter and his team at PESI Landscaping have been transforming difficult outdoor spaces into beautiful functional spaces for homeowners in the Birmingham area. His landscaping projects range from small backyards to large new construction projects. What brings him the most joy is bringing creativity to the toughest spots in a homeowner’s outdoor space. “Seeing their eyes light up at the finished product and then getting pictures from them months later showing me how they are using the space is so rewarding,” says Walter. To learn how PESI could transform your outdoor space, call 205-368-5402. To see more examples of how PESI makes Birmingham backyards great again, visit Facebook.com/PesiBham.
If you need help caring for the trees in your outdoor space, Dylan and Kristan Digmon with Monster Tree Service can help. Locally owned and operated and full licensed and insured, the Digmons’ business offers solutions to improve tree health and extend tree life along with options for complete tree removal, stump grinding, tree and shrub pruning, tree cabling and bracing and emergency services. With values rooted in care, the Digmons share that helping homeowners is the reason they started the business. Services are offered in the greater Birming- ham area and include free, no-obligation estimates with upfront pricing and no hidden fees. Visit monstertreeservice.com/Birmingham to learn more or call 205-473-0835.
Are you longing for your home’s outdoor space to bring you joy instead of stress? Willow Cove Designs is a local landscape design company that can help you tackle your landscape needs with precision and expertise. Whether you are looking to create a backyard haven for entertainment or even wondering what plants would thrive in your backyard, Willow Cove Designs can walk you through the process in three simple steps: schedule a consultation for design, receive and finalize the de- sign and bring the design to life. To learn more about Willow Cove Designs and how they can help you transform your space while keeping the process simple and fun, visit willowcovedesigns.com, call 205-427-7283, or email [email protected].
– Relocation –
With more than 25 years of experience, Molly Smith will guide you every step of the way through your local, national or global relocation. Sold by Smith, LAH Sotheby’s International Realty offers relocation expertise. You can expect thoughtful guidance and exceptional results. Molly understands that your move is more than a transaction, it’s the next chapter of your story. Visit soldbysmithhomes.com, call 205-602-7695 or email [email protected].
– In Home Care –
Senior Helpers provides compassionate care in the comfort of home. Owner Jessica Miller and her team help seniors everyday live independently with dignity and confidence. Senior Helpers trained caregivers provide personalized, in-home support tailored to each family’s needs. Services offered include companion and personal care, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, respite care for family caregivers, transitional care and daily support. To learn more call 205-479-0452, email [email protected], or visit seniorhelpers.com/al/pelham. Locally owned. Nationally trusted.
– Protecting Your Investment –
Total Power Electric provides dependable electrical services for homes and businesses in the Birmingham area. Locally owned by Thaxter Pittman, the mission of Total Power Electric is to deliver honest electrical service without commission-based sales pressure. When you work with them, you get straightforward recommendations, skilled workmanship, and reliable service you can trust. Whether you need electrical troubleshooting, panel upgrades, lighting installation, or generator installation, experienced electricians are ready to help. To learn more about their services, visit www.totalpwrelectric.com or 205-855-9297.
Vulcan Termite and Pest Control, Inc was established in 1965 and is one of the largest family owned and operated termite and pest control companies in Alabama. Their highly trained technicians provide professional and courteous termite and pest control services for both residential and commercial customers. Vulcan retains a Board Certified Entomologist who regularly updates training and keeps the company up to date with the latest termite and pest control strategies. The company’s top priority is delivering customized services to eliminate and prevent future pest concerns, giving you peace of mind through every season. Vulcan Pest Control technicians are committed to providing you with the most effective services to help protect your home and health. Learn more at vulcantermite.com or call 205-663-4200.
Birmingham Christian Family is so thankful for these companies that serve Central Alabama families and help us spread Good News in our community. Does your business offer a home resource for families? Email sales@christianfamilypublications.com to find out how you can partner with us to connect with more families you can serve.
Are you looking for Vacation Bible School (VBS) opportunities in and around Birmingham? Here is a list of great local options. Click on the links below for details.
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Senior Helpers provides compassionate care in the comfort of home. Owner Jessica Miller and her team help seniors everyday live independently with dignity and confidence. Senior Helpers trained caregivers provide personalized, in-home support tailored to each family’s needs. Services offered include companion and personal care, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, respite care for family caregivers, transitional care and daily support. To learn more call 205-479-0452, email 
