“There are six days when you may work, but the seventh day is a day of sabbath rest, a holy assembly. You are not to do any work; wherever you live, it is a sabbath to the Lord“.  Leviticus 23:3

What does it mean to year to you when it says “a day of holy assembly”?

Read the Bible in 2026

• March 1
• I Corinthians 5-8

Obituaries

Charlton Harold Cranfield

November 26, 1931 – February 27, 2026

A resident of Ama, LA, passed away on Friday, February 27, 2026 at Luling Living Center in Luling, LA. He was born November 26, 1931 in Carpenter, MS and was 94 years of age. He is survived by daughter, Karan Woods and husband, Cornel; 2 sons, David Cranfield and Curtis Cranfield and wife, Vangie; grandchildren, Kimberly Hamilton and husband, Brad, Jessica Nichols, and Jared Cranfield; and several great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his wife, Nita Cranfield; son, Donald Cranfield; parents, Bluford Day Cranfield and Ethel Pickering Bass; and sister, Flora Gilmore. Religious Services will be at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, at 10:00AM on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Services conducted by Rev. Darryl Miller. Interment Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Ronald Wayne McMillan

October 9, 1954 – February 27, 2026

A resident of Gillsburg, MS, passed away on Friday, February 27, 2026 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born October 9, 1954 in New Orleans, LA and was 71 years of age. Ronald is survived by Bonnie “Annette” Wall McMillan; daughters, Mandie McMillan (Chris Clark), and Dondi Duran (Laco); step-daughters, Courtney Peters (Tim), Kelly Elliott (Randy), and Molly Felker Gilliland (Jordin); son, Michael Wall; grandchildren, Cassie, Taylor, Davy, Colby, Deven, Lauryn, and Ava as well as 18 additional grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; sister, Rachel Gill (Earl); brother, Aubrey McMillan; sister-in-law, Molly Wall Foster (Mike); and his dog, Lindy. Preceded in death by parents, Bonnie Jean Bridges McMillan and Ralph Carl “Mackie” McMillan; twin-brother, Donald McMillan; sister, Sharon McMillan; sister-in-law, Carolyn McMillan; brother-in-law, Joby Wall. Visitation at Gillsburg Baptist Church from 6:00PM until 9:00PM on Monday and from 8:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Services conducted by Bro. Paul Roney and Bro. Randall Garcia. Interment New Zion Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Matthew 7:7

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s pray for people around the world to love God and to love others. This is shown by both words and actions.

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

Timely world articles we can read and pray about.

Have a great day. Enjoy your family and your friends.

Anna Lee

Most of the time, the days seem to fly by. So do the months and years!

Today’s Verse

“My little children, we should not show love for each other only by what we say. We should also show true love by the things that we do“.

I John 3:18, EEV

Prayer Focus

Let’s use the verse that is above and let it guide some of our actions today. Do something to show you love them to one or more people today.

Read the Bible in 2026

• February 28
• I Corinthians 1-4

New Arrival – Silas Reed Miller

Son of Phillip and OraLynn Miller of Line Creek

Obituary

Anthony Lee Taylor

May 6, 1952 – February 24, 2026

Anthony Lee Taylor, 73 of Osyka, MS passed away Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at his residence in Osyka, MS. He was born Tuesday, May 6, 1952.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Kentwood, LA. from 9:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. Bro. Darryl Miller and Bro. Don Turner will officiate. 

Anthony was a man whose life was filled with faith, music, and the simple joys that brought people together. He loved singing gospel music and could often be found playing his guitars, sharing songs that lifted spirits and touched hearts. Whether at home, at church, or among friends, music was one of his greatest gifts.

He was devoted member and deacon at First Baptist Church Kentwood. His faith was the foundation of his life and guided the way he loved and cared for others.

He also dedicated himself to his community through his work with the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, serving with integrity and commitment. Outside of work and church, he found joy on the golf course and peace out on the water, fishing whenever he had the chance.

He will be remembered for his strong faith, servant’s heart, love of music, and the warmth he shared so freely with everyone around him.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Rita Nixon King; son, Ricky Mapes; daughter, Ronda Mapes; brother, Hal King; sisters, Cindy Jubin and Penny Wroten (Mike).

Survivors include his wife, Betty Taylor;  son, Thomas Mapes Jr.;  daughters, Pennie Mapes, Becky Alexander (Mickey) and Melissa Tate (Leo);  grandsons, Micah Tolar (Bridgett), Tyler Alexander (Allye), Preston Alexander, Ryan  Tate and James Fuller Jr.;  granddaughters, Autumn Carty (Rashaad), Mekenna Tate and Christina Fuller;  great grandsons, Jeremiah Tolar, Maddox Tate and Colton Alexander;  great granddaughters, Rae Tolar, Austyn Tolar and Palmer Carty.

The family would like to thank Deaconess Home Health and Hospice for all their help and care.

An online guestbook may be signed at http://www.sharkeyfuneralhome.com

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

David and I first met Andy when he was a teenager and involved in a singing group at Southeastern. He both sang and preached for our youth revival. We’ve pretty well kept up with him since that time. He was a dear friend. We’ll never forget him or his sweet spirit and beautiful voice. He even voluntarily sang for us a couple weeks ago, a good day for him, when we visited. What a great memory!

Baptist Press

• Attorney general announces indictment against 30 more people who protested at a Minnesota church
• Ezell challenges U Mobile students to live for the lost
• Gold medal gratitude: Slavin reflects on faith amid Olympic hockey triumph
• etc.

Tomorrow’s Sunday School Lesson

Matthew 14:22-33 – In case you didn’t get a new book yet

WMU Associational Meeting

• One week from today
• Montpelier Baptist Church
• 10 A.M.
• All ladies and girls are invited.
• Focus missions and special offering
• Pot-luck meal to follow

Coming Soon

Ladies’ Night – March 20th

Sign-up in person at the church or call the church office

Have a wonderful day and weekend.

Anna Lee

Obituary

At this time, there are no available obituaries for Andy Taylor, but Betty said visitation will be 9-11 at FBC, Kentwood Saturday morning with the service at 11:00. I firmly believe Andy is in heaven now. Read these very familiar Scriptures below.

Today’s Scriptures

• For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23

Read the Bible in 2026

Romans 14-16

A Verse of Today

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world,” John 15:33

Baptist Press

Bills criminalizing protests during worship services proceed through states

IMB wraps up Olympics outreach, follow up begins

Coming Soon

Ladies Night (for all ladies and girls)

MUST SIGN UP IN OFFICE OR AT CHURCH FOYER

March 20th at 7 P.M.

Fellowship Hall of FBC

Sunday School Literature

Please accept an apology for beging late.

New Literature will be available TODAY at the church.

Scripture for Sunday’s lesson if you choose to study from your Bible only – Matthew 14:22-33. The theme for the day is “Courage”.

Jesus walks on the water

22 Immediately after this, Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Get in the boat and sail across to the other side of the lake.’ Jesus said that he would first send the crowd away. Then he would also leave. 23 So Jesus sent the crowd away. After they had gone, he went up on a mountain alone to pray. When it became dark, he was still there alone. 24 At this time the boat with the disciples in it was in the middle of the lake. It was a long way from the land. The wind was blowing against the boat and the water was hitting it.

25 Then, when it was nearly dawn, Jesus walked on the water towards his disciples. 26 The disciples saw him walking on the water. They were very frightened. ‘It is a spirit,’ they said. They screamed loudly because they were afraid.

27 But immediately Jesus said to them. ‘Be brave! It is I. Do not be afraid.’

28 Peter replied, ‘Lord, is it really you? If it is you, say to me, “Come here! Walk to me on the water.” ’

29 Jesus said to him, ‘Come to me.’

So Peter got down out of the boat. He walked on the water and he came towards Jesus. 30 But then Peter saw that the wind was still blowing strongly. He became afraid and he began to go down into the water. He shouted to Jesus, ‘Lord, save me!’

31 Immediately, Jesus put out his hand and he took hold of Peter. He said to Peter, ‘You should trust me more than you do. Why did you not believe that I could help you?’

32 Jesus and Peter climbed up into the boat. Then the strong wind stopped. 33 The disciples who were in the boat went down on their knees. They praised Jesus and they said to him, ‘It is true. You are really the Son of God.’ (Easy English Bible)

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s focus on the Taylor family and others who have recently had a death in their family and for all of us to have courage when we face difficult situations of life. May we all know that God has a wonderful home for us if we choose that destination and give our lives to Him.

Thank You for reading and praying with us.

Anna Lee

Baptist Press

Weather Prediction:

Today’s weather will be perfect for visiting church friends you haven’t seen lately or unchurched friends.

It’s a good day to volunteer to help with one of the ongoing mission projects.

It’s also a volunteer your time and talents to be used as God leads.

Etc.

Anna Lee

Let’s start out by being thankful God allowed us to wake up this day. We have no assurance of what will happen to us the rest of the day, but we might get to make some meaningful choices today. Let’s try real hard to be sure to make good choices.

Read the Bible Today

• February 26
• Romans 11-13

Prayer Focus

• Family of Andy Taylor at his passing to his heavenly home
• Service will be Saturday
• Pray for his family and many friends
• The obituary is not available yet.

The Bible says heaven is a special home we can all choose for our eternal home. There is no more pain or death.

Revelation 21:4 KJV

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

John 14:2-3, NIV

My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and.

Revelation 21:3-4, NIV

³ And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ⁴ ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Prayers Requested

The family of Doug Toney requests prayer.

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

Take some time reading here today.

OOPS – I lost this post for a while , but was able to locate it. That tells me to go ahead and post for you while I can find it today.

Have a meaningful day!

Anna Lee

I’m so glad you are visiting here today!

Today’s Verse

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men… You are serving the Lord Christ.”

Colossians 3:23-24

Addition Reading about Biblical Service

Matthew 25:35-40 ESV

For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’

Matthew 20:26-28 ESV

It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Hebrews 6:10-12 ESV

For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

John 13:12-17 ESV

When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. …

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s pray we can serve God in more and better ways this year, beginning with today.

Baptist Press

Great articles today!

https://www.baptistpress.com/

Obituary

Chief Dwaynne A. Ardeneaux

May 19, 1966 – February 22, 2026

A resident of Pine Grove, LA, passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge, LA. He was born May 19, 1966 in Marrero, LA and was 59 years of age.

He is survived by his wife, Katherine LaPorte Ardeneaux; mother, Dorateel B. Ardeneaux; sister, Julie Ardeneaux; goddaughter, Brandi G. Gilboy; niece, Angelina M. Wahl; mother-in-law, Catherine O. LaPorte, sister-in-law, Toni L. Wahl; brother-in-law, Raymond Wahl; and great-nephew, Tony Gilboy. He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence J. Ardeneaux.

Chief Dwaynne Ardeneaux has dedicated over two decades of service to the St. George Fire Department, where he began his career in 1999 as a Firefighter/Operator. Over the course of 26 years, he rose through the ranks to serve as the Chief of the Fire Prevention Bureau.

Chief Ardeneaux held a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from Louisiana State University and an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science from LSU Eunice. His academic background was complemented by practical and technical experience, including prior work in a laboratory testing fuel oils for flash point, fire point, and flame points, giving him a unique perspective on fire investigations.

Throughout his career, Chief Ardeneaux contributed extensively to specialized response teams. He served 18 years on the St. George Rescue Team and was also a member of the Louisiana State Urban Search and Rescue (USA&R) Team. Additionally, he was a certified Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT).

In 2020, Chief Ardeneaux completed the C.A.R.T.A. P.O.S.T. Academy and held dual Law Enforcement Commissions with the St. George Fire Department for Fire Investigations and with the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office. These roles highlighted his dedication to both fire safety and law enforcement collaboration.

Beyond his operational and investigative work, Chief Ardeneaux played an important role in the growth of the newly established City of St. George by authoring city ordinances that enhance public safety and strengthen community protection.

With a career marked by leadership, technical expertise, and community service, Chief Dwaynne Ardeneaux guided the St. George Fire Prevention Bureau with professionalism and commitment.

Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 8:15AM until 10:40AM on Saturday, February 28, 2026. A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate his life will follow at 11:00AM at St. Helena Catholic Church, 122 S. First Street, Amite, LA. Services conducted by Fr. Reuben Dykes. Interment will be in St. Joseph Abbey Cemetery, 75376 River Rd., Covington, LA 70435. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Mass intentions would be appreciated in lieu of flowers. 

Read the Bible in 2026

• February 25
• Romans 8-10

This Week’s Sunday School Lesson

Matthew 14

Today, let’s focus NOT on talking about, but actually doing.

I’m thankful for you today!

Anna Lee

Winter paid us another visit! I usually welcome company, but I wasn’t planning this return so quickly.

A Scripture to Focus on Today

“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God.”

1 John 4:7

There are many ways to show love for others.

Two questions to ponder:

• How do you show love?
• How do you choose those you show love to?

Read the Bible in 2026

• February 24
• Romans 4-7

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

Obituaries

Wava Graham HIll

August 30, 1942 – February 21, 2026

A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at her home. She was born August 30, 1942 in Franklinton, LA and was 83 years of age. She is survived by her daughters, Robin Phelps and Wendy Neu; son, Jody Varnado and wife Nikki; sister, Pat Hayden and husband, Robert; brothers, Paul Graham, Alvin Graham, and Albert Graham and wife, Amber; grandchildren, Joshua Neu (Lovie), Robert Neu (Heather), James Neu (Kaitlin), Heather White, Cody Phelps (Clarissa), Matthew Varnado, and Rusty Varnado (Brooke); grand daughter-in-law, Adriane Scoggins; great-grandchildren, Brianna Schulterbrandt, Eve Duval, Issabella Neu,  Jasmine Neu, Jaxon Neu, Nicky Steffek, C.J. Phelps, Braxlyn Phelps, Haylee Pence, and Khloe Pence; special caregivers, Stacey Branch, Anna Phelps, and Bailey Moore; special friend/neighbor, Leila Buniff; special son-in-law, Raymond Neu; and special nurse, Wendy McLain. Preceded in death by her husband, Danny Hill; parents, Alfred and Tessie Graham; in laws, Bill and Emma Rushing; brothers Donald Graham(infant) and J.C. Graham; grandson, Tyler Phelps. Pallbearers are Rusty Varnado, Joshua Neu, James Neu, Matthew Varnado, Cody Phelps, and Van Keith Varnado. Honorary Pallerbearers are Jesse Clark and Corey White. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 11:00AM until Religious Services at 1:00PM on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Services conducted by Bro. Don McDaniel. Interment Graham Cemetery, Amite, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Jimmie Wilson Husser

June 6, 1946 – February 22, 2026

A resident of Robert, LA, passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at his home. He was born June 2, 1946 in Independence, LA and was 79 years of age. Jimmie was the co-owner and operator of Husser City Glass, Radiator, and Muffler in Amite for 50 years. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Houston Husser; children, Charla Husser Yarbrough and husband, Sonny Yarbrough and Marcie Husser Chadwick and husband, Ronald Chadwick, Jr.; grandchildren, Cameron Bryce Yarbrough, Corey Lane Yarbrough, Hailey Marie Yarbrough, Leah Nicole Chadwick and Lane Bryce Chadwick; great-grandchildren, Lana Elizabeth Yarbrough and Natalie Haven Yarbrough; brother, Kenny Husser and wife, Micaleen Husser; 2 sisters, Patricia Husser Shockley and, husband, Thomas Shockley and Sharon Kay Lee and husband, Sidney Lee; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents, Wilson Henry Husser and Dorothy Bennett Husser; brother, Wayne A. Husser; sister-in-law, Jeannie Husser; and a special aunt, Doris “Aunt Johnnie” Bennett Stanfield. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 11:00AM until religious services at 1:00PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026. Services conducted by Bro. Dale Ziebarth. Interment Loranger Community Cemetery, Loranger, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Mark Your Calendar

The next associational WMU/Women on Mission meeting will be March 7th at Montpelier Baptist Church. Please share this information. Thanks!

A Scripture about Prayer

This is a good one to memorize or to write in your Bible

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 4:6-7

Pray for High School and College seniors.

They will soon be closing one phase of their lives and moving on to new ventures and adventures.

Pray they will continue to focus on what their task is daily and not get “senioritus”!

Others

Today is a good day to check on someone who haven’t seen lately. I have plans to do so.

Anna Lee

Good morning, friends. I’m so glad you are checking in today. I had a good Lord’s Day. I hope you did too.

Today’s Scripture:

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters…” Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)

Let’s try to remember that. I’m sure the quality of our work will increase if we do.

Prayer Focus: Others!

Say special prayers for Andy and Betty Taylor today, please.

Read the Bible in 2026

• February 23
• Romans 1-3
• This is the start of the sixth book of the Bible since we started less than two months ago.
• Let’s keep reading and work our way all the way through the Bible again this year.

Obituaries

I did not find any local obituaries this morning.

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

In addition to the regular articles, there is a pod cast here you may be interested in – “Sharing Jesus with Family and Friends”.

Devotional

What does Jesus say about family and friends?

John 15:12-17

12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.

13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

14 You are my friends if you do what I command.

15 I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business.

¹⁶ You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. 

¹⁷ This is my command: Love each other.

Loving Others

We all know God wants us to love others. Let’s do a better job of doing so this week.

Anna Lee

Here it is again, the best day of the week, the Lord’s day! Our Sunday School lesson,”Judgement Coming” is based on Matthew 13: 24-30 and 36-43. What a good lesson it is!

Today’s Verse

Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let them hear. Matthew 13:43, NIV

Prayer Focus

Today as we pray, let us focus on the services in our local churches and on other churches around the world.

Read the Bible in 2026

• February 22
• Acts 17-18

Obituaries

There are no new obituaries for Kentwood this morning, but please pray for the families who have had recent deaths.

Missions – Operation Christmas Child

David and I have spent time making some purchases of small stuffed animals and for the hygiene kits. We are waiting for some items to arrive. We also spent portions of two days working in our area at the church getting reorganized so we can begin work there.

This year, my sister asked some of her sewing friends for scraps to sew some of the totes. She has been a “one-person factory”! She does beautiful work! I get so excited when I see the totes. She acquired the fabric we used last year and is a. wonderful asset to our team!

Next, we will be putting the cording in some of the totes. We will soon be folding and pressing them to fit into the shoeboxes better as well as sorting them for boys and girls. Hopefully, we will get this done this week

.

And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations.

Mark 13:10 ESV

I am thankful for the area churches who also work hard to get shoeboxes prepared for boys and girls around the world. Remember, the book “The Greatest Journey” and a Bible are given with each box by Samaritan’s Purse. They teache the children about Jesus and gives them an opportunity to follow Him. Many of them also “share Jesus” with family members so they can be saved too.

If any individual or church needs information about Operation Christmas Child, you can ask me. I can also connect you with someone who who can also give you information that will be helpful in getting started.

If you are interested in helping us “work” or able to donate to future purchases, please contact me or give to the OCC special account at FBC, Kentwood or your own church.

Missions – Coming Soon

• Two Rivers Associational WMU/Women on Mission Meeting
• Montpelier Baptist Church
• Saturday, March 7
• Potluck lunch to follow
• 9:00 A.M. – Leadership meeting
• 10:00 A.M. – Regular meeting let by Montpelier ladies
• All ladies and girls are invited to attend.

Devotional Thought

 “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” — Matthew 4:19

Jesus did not wait for people to come to Him; He went to the sick, the broken, friends, and new friends. We can easily be mission-minded too. We sometimes think of missions as something far away, but missions is a “purposeful” activity, being led by God in our daily life. It can start in our daily activities and go as far as God leads you!

It comes in many forms: teaching a missions class, doing individual, group, or church projects, special classes, Women on Mission, Operation Christmas Child, sharing your Sunday school literature, and many more things. Invite someone new to join us in church attendance and missions.

Have a wonderful day serving God!

Anna Lee

Saturday

Welcome to the last “warmer” day before it turns cold again for a few days. Remember that Saturday is a good day to get certain things done, so Sunday can run smoothly without having the normal tasks at home. I remember that my daddy always polished everyone’s shoes on Saturdays and let them sit together to dry.

Read the Bible in 2026

• February 21
• Acts 24-26

Special Scriptures for Today

Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Isaiah 40:29: “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”

John 1:5: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

Prayers Appreciated

Andy and Betty Taylor – Betty works daily to take care of all of Andy’s needs. They are having a special extended family day today.

Janice Hornsby – Still working to get healther

Bro. Darryl lost an extended family member this week

JJananice Hor

Operation Christmas Child

Items for the Hygiene Kits have been ordered. We are working to take an inventory of what we have at this time and making a list of what we will need.

Wedding Tonight

Courtney Creel and Brennan Dear’s wedding is tonight in Jackson Mississippi. Pray for these two individuals as they are joined in marriage. May they have a long and loving marriage that honors God.

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s spend some time praying for services in all the area churches.

Obituary

Mala Fran Newman Schott

Feb. 18, 2026

Mala Fran Newman Schott passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, in Hammond, LA. She was 69 years old. Mala was born in Baton Rouge and was the eldest in her family of four. She is preceded in death by her parents Emerson and Jean Newman. Mala graduated from Valley Forge Academy where she was valedictorian and Southeastern Louisiana University where she met her husband, John. Upon graduation from SLU, Mala worked as an accountant in New Orleans until she transitioned to being a stay-at-home Mom.

Married for 47 years, John and Mala had two children. Mala was very devoted to her family. She loved cooking, plants, and animals (especially cats).

Mala is survived by her 2 children and 3 grandchildren: Elizabeth and Rick Joji of Humble, TX, their children Gavin, Kaden, and Alyssa; and Joseph Schott of Tickfaw, LA. She is also survived by her 3 siblings, Eric Newman, Donna Newman Black, and Suzanne Travis and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the John and Mala Schott Endowed Scholarship at Southeastern, SLU Box 10703, Hammond, LA 70402. Checks should reference the John and Mala endowed scholarship. Online contributions can be made at www.southeastern.edu/memorial.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Visitation from the Chapel of Brandon G. Thompson Funeral Home, 12012 Hwy 190 West Hammond, LA. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until the start of the Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Rose Memorial Park Cemetery.

(Mala and my sister, Julie, were good school friends. They spent many night at my house during high school. They each thought they were vacationing together and enjoyed the set of single beds in that felt like a motel room. She was almost like another little sister!)

How old were you when you learned the hymn, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus “?

I know I was very young and surely before I could read.

“The Privilege of Prayer” by Waylon Bailey

A link you will enjoy today:

http://waylonbailey.com/2020/10/10/the-privilege-of-prayer/

I’m thankful for the children at church who learn the same hymn early, surely before they can hold a hymnal and read the words and the music.

 “And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should” (Colossians 4:3-4).

Scripture about Missions

15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.

Mark 16:15

Something else I learned – “Your mission field begins when you walk out the door.”

How can and will you share about Jesus today?