Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
~I Peter 1:3~
Prayer Focus
Prayers for our families and friends
Pray for pastors.
Pray for the military, the common people, and the political leaders here and in Iran.
There are a number of people who are having or have recently had surgery. I think there are more surgeries now than in previous years. I suppose there are more optional surgeries in that number.
Hopefully, the cold and flue season is being left behind for most people, but some people still manage to have these problems all year long. Pray for healthy days for everyone.
Obituaries
There are no new obituaries in Kentwood this morning.
Missions
Associational meeting for women and girls at Montpelier Baptist Church Saturday morning at 10:00 followed by a potluck lunch.
Ladies Night
We will meet, Friday, March 20 at FBC, Kentwood at 7:00. Sign the list in the church sanctuary or have the secretary put your name on the list in the church office (229-8111).
Additional Scripture Reading
18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20 NIV
(New International Version)
This thought was shared by Jesus to his apostles. It was fitting for them and is still fitting for us today!
If you have not previously memorized this Scripture, today is a good day to begin that process. I memorized it as written in the King James Version of the Bible which is most familiar to many people. You may want to do the same.
“Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”
Matthew 28:5-6
Here we are in March. It is “marching on”. I am enjoying the warmer weather and looking forward to being able to get the plants out of the greenhouse. I will do that soon. Warmer, not hot, weather and Easter on its way. New leaves on some trees. Flower bulbs showing their finest colors, etc. This is my favorite season of the year!
Thankfulness
I am thankful for being able to spend more time outside and enjoying all of nature that God has provided. Which bird(s) do you look forward to seeing? Which plants are you anxious to see? What is your favorite color of spring? I’m so thankful God did more than provide us a black-and-white world!
I’m thankful for you! I’m glad you checked in today.
Read the Bible in 2026
March 5
II Corinthians 1-4
Prayer Focus
Again, let’s focus some of our prayers on the Middle East. Let’s pray lots of good comes from what’s happening there now.
I did not find any new obituaries this morning.
Baptist Press
As usual, there are several articles worth your time.
The Week of Prayer for North American Missions in 2026 is observed from March 1–8. This Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) event focuses on praying for missionaries and their families, with the theme “More Than a Gift” based on Ephesians 3:20-21, leading up to the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering.
20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or
imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory
in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and
ever! Amen.”
We will be learning about one mission opportunity in our local area when we meet Saturday at the WMU meeting at Montpelier. Come see how “we” as churches and “we”, as individuals, can help others through some difficulties in life.
Come, learn something new with us! It is an opportunity and a missions field! There will be a some potentially new friends there too!
Also Coming Soon:
Ladies Night on March 20 at 7 P.M. at FBC, Kentwood. If you are a lady who attends now or will possibility do so in the future, this is for you!
Teenage girls are also invited to participate.
Potential members, new members, and members for many years, can learn about opportunities to be involved in FBC, Kentwood.
Questions are welcomed both now and on the 20th. PLEASE SIGN UP SUNDAY or even by phone today. (FBC 0ffice: 229-8111)
Pine Ridge Bible Study Ladies
Meet on Wednesday, March 11
Lunch served at noon
Plan for Easter
It’s not all about colorful eggs, a big meal, or even fancy new clothing! It’s about Jesus! Be sure to teach your children and grandchildren “the real story”!
Good morning. Thanks for checking in this morning.
Easter is April 5th, so I will begin to share some Easter Scriptures/
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
John 1:29 (NKJV)
Prayer Focus
Let’s focus our prayers today on what’s happening in Iran. Let’s especially pray for the people involved in any way.
Obituary
Nelia Ann Allen Travis
July 12, 1944 – March 2, 2026
A resident of Liberty, MS, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2026 at Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center in McComb, MS. She was born July 12, 1944 in Clinton, LA and was 81 years of age. She is survived by her children, Judy Ann Travis and partner, Anthony James, Mary Jane Regan and husband, David Regan, Carla Marie “Pewee” Boykin and husband, Charles Boykin, and Beverly T. Fish; brother, Fred Allen Jr. and wife, Gloria; grandchildren, Samantha Thaggard and her husband Andy, Kimberly Wilson, Ashley Watts and husband Brian, and Daniel McKenzie and wife Lana; 10 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. Preceded in death by her husband, Carl Travis; 2 sisters, Peggy Gross and Alma Partin. Visitation at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, Gillsburg, MS, from 9:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Services conducted by Pastor Billy Mathis. Interment New Zion Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. Pallbearers will be Daniel McKenzie, Cory Patterson, Colby Bardwell, Clayton Bardwell, Taylor Regan, Bryant Wilson, and Jayden Hebert. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
I want to thank you for praying for my friends who have been in Israel on vacation. They are now safer in Egypt. I look forward to hearing they are safely stateside.
I told a couple people who knew them, but wanted to tell Andy too. We had lots of mutual friends before we moved to Kentwood.
Thank you for praying for them and others who were also trapped in warfare. Please continue to pray for many others who found themselves suddenly in a danger zone.
God has blessed us to see another day, but not necessarily to live through this day. Psalm 118 is a chapter is gratitude, thanking God.
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it”
-Psalm 118:24-
I try to do something each day to make each day count. Some days are more productive than other days. Unfortunately, some days, I have to wonder where the day went without seeing a lot of productivity. I always know God has blessed me and am thankful for his love and watchcare.
Read the Bible this Year
March 3
I Corinthians 12-14
Obituary
Harry Andrew Brown, Sr.
January 28, 1950 – March 1, 2026
Harry Andrew Brown, SR passed away on March 1, 2026, at the age of 76 at his home in Independence, LA. He spent most of his life as a mechanic and dirt car driver in Loranger and Pike County speedway. He is survived by his children, Tammy Ellzey, Jeannie Crayton (Mitch), Andrea Grimes (Russell) and Harry Brown JR (Audra), and Daughter in law,Melissa Brown. He leaves 10 grandchildren, Mary Ellzey (Brady), Collin Crayton (Victoria), Ethan Crayton, Rusty Grimes (Katelyn), Zachary Grimes(Lauren), Kayla Grimes, Chad James, Elizabeth Strate, Andrew Brown, Johnny Brown, JR. and 4 Great grandchildren, Sadie Givens, Willoh Grimes, Paislee Thurman and Ayden James. Sisters Vernia Simmons and Ruby Ridgedell. He is preceded in death by his wife, Lillian Easley Brown, Son Johnny Brown, SR, Mother and Father John Wallace Brown and Nannie McDaniel Brown, Brothers Richard, Jack and Jerry Brown and Sisters Orgie Seal and Doris Shaffett. The family would like to thank Anvoi Hospice for all the assistance in this time of need. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 10:00AM until Religious Services at 12 Noon on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Services conducted by Rev. David Cutrer. Interment Tangipahoa Cemetery, Tangipahoa, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Churches have groups for all ages, not just school age children
Additional Bible Reading – Encouraging One Another by Gathering Together
24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Hebrews 10:24-25
Some opportunities to gather together and encourage each other.
Bible Study Classes and Groups
Regular Church Attendance and Bible Study
Meetings such as Saturday morning in Montpelier (missions)
Ladies’ Night – March 20th (Must sign up to attend)
Working with others through various ministries
Choir
Volunteer in children’s ministry/nursery
Etc.
We all benefit through our interactions in special groups such as there.
Prayer Focus
Find some ways to join a Christian group or organization. You will find you benefit as you minister to others. Today, let’s pray we follow as God leads us.
Today, we begin a new work week, but for many of us, it’s work at home, basically doing what we choose to do.
For some people, they face a day of military battles. Let’s start out by continuing to pray for all involved.
We havefriends who are vacationing in the Holy Land. They are okay, but I can’t imagine being there at this time. Please pray for them to be able to get back to their home, in another state, safely.
Obituaries
Betty Jean Reid DeLancey
July 20, 1934 – February 28, 2026
Betty Jean Reid DeLancey, 91, a lifelong resident of Amite, Louisiana, was born on July 20, 1934. She passed peacefully 8:34am February 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and faith.
Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Ray “Bill” DeLancey, with whom she shared many cherished years of marriage.
She was a devoted mother to her four children: Beverly, Jimmy, Eddie, and Melissa (Chad). Her family was her greatest pride and joy. She also leaves behind a beautiful legacy of 11 grandchildren, Jimmy Ray DeLancey Jr (LaDena), Darla Ann DeLancey Miller (Michael), Michael Scott DeLancey (Lori), Sheila Renee Saxon Rhodus (Will), Dedra Michelle Saxon, Eddie William DeLancey, Cody Michael Edwards (Courtney), Kyle Matthew (Nyomie), Courtney Nicole Edwards Hart (Austin), Taylor Hope Barr, Jaelyn Nicole Barr Kuhn (Ryan), 24 great-grandchildren, and 17 great-great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews each of whom brought immense happiness to her life.
Betty was also preceded in death by her parents, Ivy William Reid and Bernice Louise Pratt Reid; grandchildren, Linnie Delv Saxon, Jr. and Beverly Leanne Saxon; sisters & brother, Velma June Reid Winn, Maxine Marie Reid, Junior William “Willie” Reid, Marjorie Ann Reid Smith, Esther Elaine Reid Lewis, and two infant sisters; many nieces and nephews.
Betty dedicated over 25 years of service to Master Chef and Miss Ann’s Fried Chicken, where she was known for her strong work ethic and warm spirit. She took pride in her work and in the friendships she built along the way.
After retirement, Betty truly enjoyed life. She loved laughing, joking, and spending time with family, friends, and members of her community. Her joyful personality and quick wit brightened every room she entered.
A faithful woman, Betty walked closely in her Christian faith throughout her life. She was blessed with the enduring friendship and fellowship of Brother Mitch and Sister Lilly during her journey at Independence Baptist Church. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life and an inspiration to those around her.
Betty will be remembered for her strength, her humor, her unwavering love for her family, and her deep faith. Her legacy lives on in the generations she helped raise and the countless lives she touched.
Visitation at First Baptist Church of Independence from 11:00AM until religious services at 3:00PM on Monday, March 2, 2026. Services conducted by Rev. Mitch Williams. Interment Natalbany Cemetery, Independence, LA. Pallbearers will be Kyle Edwards, Austin Hart, Howard Carroll, Johnathan Bergeron, Ryan Kuhn, and Blaine Gamache. Memorial Contributions may be made to The Hospice of Baton Rouge Butterfly Wing. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Mary Esther Bond O’Malley
July 20, 1943 – March 1, 2026
A resident of Watson, LA, passed away on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at her home. She was born July 20, 1943 in Amite, LA and was 82 years of age. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and a retired LPN from Hammond Developmental Center. She is survived by 3 children Marian E. Tate, Carol S. Scott, and Charles N. O’Malley, all of Watson; 8 grandchildren, Jessica Tucker, Darrell Stevens, Adam O’Malley, C.J. O’Malley, Bradan O’Malley, Ava Courrege, Gerald “Duane” O’Malley, Nora O’Malley, Francis Scott, and Kylee Scott; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her husband, Chief Gerald O’Malley; daughter, Ramona Jean Stevens; parents, Charles and Cornelia Hurst Bond; sister, Martha Jane Bond. Visitation at Montpelier Methodist Church from 12:00AM until religious services at 2:00PM on Saturday, March 7, 2026. Services conducted by Pastor Ryan Frith. Interment Montpelier Community Cemetery, Montpelier, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
“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.
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.
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!
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
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.
The Prayer Link 
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