And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation…To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19 (KJV)
Prayer Focus
Who or what do you choose to pray for? Always feel free to pray for what’s on your heart. I can only give a suggestion, but I certainly do not know who or what is on your heart.
Read the Bible in 2026
July 31
I Chronicles 3-5
Obituaries
There are no new obituaries listed for us locally this morning, but if you know of a family member or friend with a death close to their heart, please pray for them.
Sunday School Lesson
August 2
“Called”
Judges 6:1-4 and 7-16
Study enough that you are able to contribute to the class discussion.
“All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.”
2 Corinthians 4:15
Missions
Today is a wonderful way to participate in helping with a mission project at your local church. For instance, if you are a member of FBC, Kentwood, you might want to cook or bake something to share through the manna program, buy some school supplies for local children to have available when school begins in couple weeks, or buy needed items such as bouncy balls or small toys or games for children who will receive a “shoebox” and learn about Jesus in the coming year. You can always contribute to help pay for shipping of cartons of shoeboxes.
Thank God for these and other mission opportunities. Choose one for today.
This Weekend
The youth in many area churches will participate in a Disciple Now weekend. Pray for the youth and those leading them. It’s never too late to volunteer with some local needs in places like the Hope Center. You can give of your time or canned goods and other items that are needed.
A Closing Scripture
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
Ephesians 2:10
If you do not have a church or your church is involved in different ministries, find a way to serve on your own or join in with a more active group. The key is to be involved!
Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. Revelation 3:20 (KJV)
Read the Bible in 2026
July 29
II Kings 23-25
A Verse to Ponder
“I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35
Obituaries
Mary “Sis” Meyers
Mary Evelyn Hutchinson Meyers, lovingly known to many as “Sis,” passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026, at Avanti Senior Living in Covington, LA surrounded by her family. She was born on March 18, 1930, and was 96 years of age. She is survived by her son, Ben Meyers and wife, Gina; 2 grandchildren, John Meyers and Evangeline Meyers; sister, Margaret Hutchinson; and numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Louie Prentiss and Mary Anna Hutchinson and her husband, Henry Ben Meyers, Sr.
Mary’s journey through life was marked by her unwavering commitment to education and her passion for music. Raised in Magnolia, Mississippi and a proud graduate of Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi, she eventually settled in Greensburg, Louisiana with her husband, Henry Ben, and became an elementary school teacher before focusing on being a mother and homemaker. Through her work, Mary touched countless lives, inspiring young minds and nurturing a love of learning.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Mary was a talented musician, sharing her gift of music by playing the organ and piano at the United Methodist Church in Greensburg, LA for many years. Her musical contributions enriched the lives of many, and her service as both an organist and an later on as an usher at Grace Memorial Episcopal Church in Hammond, LA was a testament to her generous spirit and faith in God.
After Henry Ben’s passing, Mary moved back to Hammond where her later life was filled with simple joys and quiet pleasures. She found great satisfaction in playing bridge with friends, constructing puzzles and working through challenging crossword puzzles and word-searches. These hobbies reflected her sharp mind and her appreciation for the little details in life.
Above all, Mary was a kind-hearted and loving wife and mother, whose profound love for her son and her two cherished grandchildren was a guiding force in her life. Her family was her pride and joy, and she delighted in every moment spent with them. Her gentle nature and compassionate heart were evident in the way she spoke kindly to and of others, always offering a warm smile and an encouraging word.
Mary’s life will be celebrated in a brief service on Friday, July 31, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Grace Memorial Episcopal Church in Hammond where family and friends will gather to honor her legacy of love and
kindness. Services conducted by Rev. Liz Embler-Beazley. Visitation will be held before the service from 1:00 to 2:00 PM. Interment at Greenlawn Cemetery in Hammond will follow the church service. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Branson Neal Toney
December 16, 1969 – July 24, 2026
Crain Funeral Home in Franklinton
Brandon Neil Toney, former resident of Kentwood, Louisiana, passed away on July 24, 2026, at the age of 56.
Born in Greensburg, La on December 16, 1969, Brandon was the beloved son of Richard and Sandra Toney of Franklinton. He was a devoted father to his son, Broc Neil Toney and daughter-in-law Monica Vargas of Armenia, Colombia, and his daughter, Brooklyn Toney Thomas and son-in-law Adam Thomas, of Pine. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Jose Alejandro Zapata, Benjamin Lucas Toney, Noah Timothy Thomas, and Nash Jennings Thomas.
Brandon attended Bowling Green Elementary School, Chesbrough Junior High School, and Jewel Sumner High School. He later attended Sullivan Vocational and Technical School, where he studied automotive mechanics and graduated with the skills that would become one of his greatest gifts. His mechanical knowledge and ability to solve just about any problem earned him the respect and admiration of everyone who knew him.
Brandon was a well-known, respected, and deeply loved friend, farmer, and skilled mechanic. To those who knew him, there was simply nothing he couldn’t fix, figure out, or grow. Whether it was a piece of equipment, an old vehicle, or a problem someone else had given up on, Brandon approached everything with determination, knowledge, and an unmatched work ethic.
His generosity was one of his greatest gifts. Whether someone was a lifelong friend or a complete stranger, Brandon never hesitated to lend a helping hand. He would gladly give the shirt off his back or his last dollar if it meant helping someone in need. He had a servant’s heart, a quick wit, and a gift for storytelling that could fill a room with laughter. His infectious smile, clever comebacks, and larger-than-life personality left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Above all else, Brandon loved his family. His children were his greatest pride, and becoming “Paw Paw Pie” or “Alan Jackson” as his grandson Nash called him, brought him immeasurable joy. He treasured every moment spent with his grandsons, who brought endless happiness to his life.
Brandon found peace and purpose outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, tending his garden, caring for his chickens, horses, and cows, riding his tractor, baling hay, buying, fixing, and selling cars, working on farm equipment, raising beagle puppies, and cooking for those he loved. The farm wasn’t just where he lived—it was where he felt most at home.
Brandon is survived by his parents, son, daughter, son-in-law, 3 grandsons, brother, Brad Toney and wife, Glynda, and their family: Brenden Toney, Taylor, Bradley, and Bristol; Bryson Toney, Karlie, and Brylie; and Briannon Toney Gerlach and Tristan.
He is also survived by his uncles and aunts: Dale Toney (Barbara), Faye Gleber (Sidney), Candace Frazier, Dennis Wilcox (Ruth), Doug Wilcox, and Danna Erwin (Michael); along with a host of beloved cousins, their children and families. Brandon also leaves behind some of his lifelong best friends, Jonah Ballow, his beloved family, Chris Helton, and his beloved family, their friendship was a treasured part of his life.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Delbert and Mavis Toney; his maternal grandparents, George and Virginia Wilcox; his uncle, Paul Frazier; his aunt, Judy Harper Toney; his cousin, Melissa Toney; his beloved grandson, Neil Keston Thomas; his nephews, Chandler Toney and Braden Toney; the mother of his children, Ronya Lynn McKee and countless friends like him taken too soon.
Brandon’s legacy is one of kindness, hard work, generosity, laughter, and unconditional love. He leaves behind a family who adored him unconditionally, countless friends whose lives he touched forever, and a community that is better because he was part of it. Though he will be deeply missed, the lessons he taught, the stories he shared, and the love he gave so freely will live on in all who knew him.
“It isn’t what we leave behind, it’s what we leave in people’s hearts that counts”
The family welcomes flowers and other expressions of sympathy. Those wishing to honor Brandon’s memory may also make a memorial donation to the American Stroke Association (www.stroke.org) It is the family’s prayer that continued research will spare other families from experiencing this same profound loss.
Visitation will be held at Crain Funeral Home (1109 Bene Street, Franklinton) on Saturday August 1st from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 12:00 pm Saturday with Rev. Randel Camardell officiating. Burial will follow in the Wilmer Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery (65243 Hwy. 1061, Kentwood).
Pallbearers: Brad Toney, Brenden Toney, Bryson Toney, Adam Thomas, Jonah Ballow, Chris Helton
Prayer Focus
There have been a number of people with illnesses and surgeries. As you pray for them, please also pray for the homebound. Often our prayers should be for whole families, not just one member. Remember that as you pray today.
There are many mission opportunities. Ask for more information if you would like to help in any way.
Coming Soon
I don’t have any definite information, be we had a report of Children’s Camp last year, so I expect we will get to hear about their camp Sunday morning at FBC, Kentwood.
Reminder
Update your prayer guide. Pray using your guide.
Closing Scripture
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. Psalm 32:8
God, you are my God. I will earnestly seek you. My soul thirsts for you. My flesh longs for you, in a dry and weary land, where there is no water. Psalm 63:1
Prayer Focus
Let’s pray for each other today. You choose the specific people to pray for today.
Many of you have prayed for Bro. Darryl Miller. He got a good report yesterday. Thank God.
Read the Bible in 2026
July 28
II Kings 20-22
Obituaries
No new obituaries are posted.
Baptist Press
Now that America is 250, how should Christians keep standing for their faith?
“But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of Him everywhere.”
2 Corinthians 2:14
Sunday School Lesson for August 2
“Called”
Judges 6:1-4 and 7-16
Scripture about Serving
“But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil.” Luke 6:35
Enjoy your many opportunities to serve. Be a blessing to others.
The podcast listed on the right is about church adaptability. You may enjoy hearing that.
Obituaries
There are no new obituaries this early on a Monday morning. Check back in the morning.
One Verse; Peace and Thankfulness
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Colossians 3:15
Coming Soon – Opportunity to learn about Grief
The four Sundays of September have been set aside so we can learn about grief from a professional. Please be aware of the opportunity and realize it will be helpful to all of us. I’ll provide more information as time gets closer.
A Verse about Serving
“So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Galatians 6:10
You shall call on me, and you shall go and pray to me, and I will listen to you…You shall seek me and find me, when you search for me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:12-13
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s pray for those who have not planned to attend church to have second thoughts about that decision. Let’s pray for them to “search for me with all their heart”.
“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through Lord Jesus Christ.”
1 Corinthians 15:57
Children’s Church Camp
Camp ends today. Pray for safe travel for the children and chaperones as they return to Kentwood.
Sunday School and Church Today and Tonight
Check the schedules for local churches you are interested in.
Schedule includes nursery, children, youth, and adults:
9:15 – Sunday School
10:30 – Worship and other special groups
6 P.M. – Worship and other special groups
There are opportunities for everyone.
Closing Scripture
“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”
Good morning. I hope you have a plan to do something special this weekend.
Today’s Scripture
Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
Psalm 100:2 (KJV)
Update on Tim Tyler
Patti said he is progressing. He has medical services at home and stays in contact with his surgery doctor. A recent test showed no indication of cancer, a great improvement. He continues to need our prayers as he recovers from surgery.
Prayer Focus
Update your personal prayer list and then pray.
Obituaries
Dona Cheramie Williams
Feb 19, 1957 — Jul 22, 2026
Kentwood
Dona Cheramie Williams, beloved wife, and friend; passed away on July 22, 2026 at the age of 69 with her husband Kent Andrew Williams and her son André Pierre Williams by her side.
She was born in Raceland, Louisiana on February 19, 1957, graduating from South Lafourche High School in 1975. After a couple of stops the allure of nature drew herself and Kent to search for a forever home closer to it, finally succeeding when they found a place that checked all their wishes nearby on an ironically named Kentwood in 1996.
She enjoyed quiet mornings on the patio listening to birdsong and a mug of coffee, an enjoyment that extended to her pets, Reni, Sasha, and Starbuck, whom she loved as much as any member of her human family. She gained fulfillment conducting acts of service, especially in making holiday candies and fudges that had to be absolutely perfect before even considering sending it out.
She is survived by her husband Kent Andrew Williams, her son André Pierre Williams, her brother Dean Aramise Cheramie, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary Chaisson Cheramie and Rudolph Joesph Cheramie, and her sisters Karen Ann and Kelly Rae Cheramie.
Her visitation service will be held on Saturday July 25, 2026 from 10am until 12 Noon at Mckneely Funeral Home in Kentwood, LA, followed by a brief funeral service and then a graveside service at Robert’s Cemetery in Mount Hermon, Louisiana.
Loyce McDaniel Taylor
Nov 15, 1945 — Jul 22, 2026
Baton Rouge, LA
A resident of Baton Rouge, LA, passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at Butterfly Wing of Hospice of Baton Rouge in Baton Rouge, LA . She was born November 15, 1945 in Osyka, MS and was 80 years of age. She is survived by her son, Wilford Jack Taylor and wife Cathy; grandchildren, Justin Taylor and wife Clare, Jacob Taylor, Nathan Taylor, Paige Taylor, and Natalie Taylor; great-grandchildren, Lottie Taylor and Luke Taylor. Preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Tee McDaniel; husband, Bobby Taylor; son, Joseph Taylor; brother, Jack McDaniel; twin sister, Joyce McDaniel Pearce; sisters, Dot Rader and Glenda Wiles; adopted sister, Jo Brumfield. Special thanks to The Butterfly Wing Hospice of Baton Rouge for their compassionate care. Graveside Services will be held at Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA at 11:00AM Wednesday, July 29, 2026. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Read the Bible in 2026
July 25
II Kings 12:14
A Devotional Scripture
“We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, who is and who was, for you have taken your great power and begun to reign.”
And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Joshua 24:15 (KJV)
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s pray for those who have not made the decision to serve God. This can include all ages, children to senior adults.
Read the Bible in 2026
July 24
II Kings 9:11
No New Obituaries
Obituary Reminder
Most of us will not attend the services for Ernest Graham in Texas today, but we can spend some time thanking God for Ernest and the life he lived. We can also pray for his family and the many others who will mourn his loss.
It seems my server doesn’t work when the sky is cloudy. I’ve been trying to write this post for three hours. I’ll be brief at this point.
A Scripture for Today
You didn’t choose me, but I chose you and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain; that whatever you will ask of the Father in my name, he may give it to you.
John 15:16
Prayer Focus: Pray for those in the north western portion of the Gulf who have/will troubled by the hurricane.
Read the Bible in 2026
July 23
II Kings 6-8
Obituaries
No new obituaries in our area were found this morning.
“I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving.”
Psalm 69:30
Children’s Camp
The children will be leaving for camp tomorrow. Pray for the children, parents, and chaperones as the day for camp approaches.
OCC
We have now purchased most, if not all, of the major items that will be packed in our shoeboxes this year.
School supplies are on sale in some stores. As you purchase some for your family, think about purchasing some for OCC. We can always put some up for next year. What a blessing to many people you can be by doing something as small as that!
Closing Scripture
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:38
“For you set aside the commandment of God, and hold tightly to the tradition of men—the washing of pitchers and cups, and you do many other such things…” He said to them, “Full well do you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition.”
Mark 7:8-9 (WEB)
Prayer Focus
I have spent some time checking the weather forecasts for the coming week. We will have some days of extreme heat beginning this morning. Be careful about the time you spend outside and stay hydrated. Make wise decisions. Pray for everyone to make wise decisions. This is a good morning to practice this verse early:
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10
Read the Bible in 2026
July 22
II Kings 4-5
Obituaries
No new obituaries are posted for this area at this time.
Let’s be thankful the recent floods in Texas were not as devastating as last year. Thank God!
Sunday School Lesson Preparation
July 26
“Consequences”
Judges 2:11-23
It’s never too early to study the Bible!
Missions – Thankfulness!
As OCC workers, David and I have big thank-yous for a recent donor and for volunteers who have donated time on several recent days to accomplish a time-consuming task. Together, these precious folks have helped us move beyond a stumbling point we felt we had reached. We are very thankful!
“Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:10-11
The Prayer Link 
You must be logged in to post a comment.