For you, brothers, were called for freedom. Only don’t use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love be servants to one another.
Galatians 5:13 (WEB):
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s thank God for those around us who have helped us get through the “bumps” in our lives. Let’s realize that “No man is an island”. Our lives impact others and others impact our live. Thank God for using others to help you when you have needs and thank Him when he allows us to help others.
Also, thank God for the many careers that function on the principle of helping make life better for others. We could never function if we didn’t have others to help us get through the “bumps” in our lives.
At any given time in our lives, we probable know one or more people going through a very difficult time. Let’s be sure to pray for them and minister to them as God leads us to do for others.
Read the Bible in 2026
July 9
II Samuel 16-18
Obituary
The obituary for Dr. Derrris Ray was posted yesterday afternoon. If you missed it, please read below today’s Prayer Link.
We cam spend some time studying your lesson for tomorrow even if we have already done so this week. We will surely “Pick up on something we missed” earlier.
Words and Acts of Encouragement
“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
Coming Soon
We always need to be aware of opportunities that are available for us. One will be the WMU meeting at FBC, Greensburg Saturday of next week at 10:00 A.M. followed by lunch. All ladies are encouraged to find a friend and meet us there.
Our focus will be on the Seaman’s ministry in Baton Rouge and a report from someone who delivered shoeboxes.
Derris Wayne Ray, MD, a resident of Kentwood, Louisiana, passed away on Monday, July 6, 2026, at North Oaks Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. He was 74 years of age.
Dr. Ray was born January 1, 1952, in Stephenville, Texas. He graduated from Tallulah High School in 1970 and attended Louisiana State University, where he was a proud member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity. He went on to graduate from LSU Medical School in New Orleans in 1977 and completed his residency at Earl K. Long in Baton Rouge in 1980.
That same year, he established his family medical practice in Amite and became a beloved family physician who selflessly served the community and devoted 46 years of his life to Hood Memorial Hospital. As a physician, he truly embodied the highest ideals of the oath. He consistently went beyond medical duty to ensure each patient’s complete well-being, maintaining an unwavering commitment long after operational hours. To his patients, he was so much more than a doctor—he was a trusted friend, a constant lifeline, and a provider of true medical compassion and presence.
Derris was an incredible husband, the ultimate father, and the best “Papa” to his grandchildren. He lived a life defined by kindness, patience, and selflessness. A true farmer at heart, he found great joy in raising cattle, was happiest out on his tractor, and loved being surrounded by the family he loved so dearly. He was an avid history enthusiast with an impressive collection of war memorabilia, as well as a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Kentwood. His greatest legacy remains the endless love he gave his family.
He is survived by his wife, Kirsten Ray; his five children, Candace Bridges and her husband Richard, Ashton Ray and his wife Brandi, Brantley Ray and his wife Shanelle, Steven Warren, and Trenton Warren and his wife Megan; his six grandchildren, Eli Ray, Madeline Bridges, Cohen Ray, Camille Bridges, Oliver Ray, and Collins Warren; and a brother, Kolan Ray and his wife Zoe. He was preceded in death by his parents, A. C. Ray, Jr. and Codie Ray; and a sister, Merry Ray. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and the countless devoted patients he served across the community.
Visitation will take place at First Baptist Church of Kentwood from 10:00 AM until religious services begin at 1:00 PM on Saturday, July 11, 2026. Services will be conducted by Brother Darryl Miller. Burial will follow at Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA. Serving as pallbearers will be Ashton Ray, Brantley Ray, Richard Bridges, Steven Warren, Trenton Warren, Eli Ray, Brody Ray, and Derrick Graves. Honorary pallbearers will be Kolan Ray, Cohen Ray and Oliver Ray.
The Ray family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at Hood Memorial Hospital and North Oaks Medical Center, with a special thank you to Laura Henderson, Karen Volkman, Casey Wallace, Ryan Seal, and Chad Simmons for their exceptional care and support.
Donations may be made in honor of his lifetime of service to Hood Memorial Hospital.
McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
I see some articles I plan to turn back to and read in a few minutes. I think there is something for you here too!
Obituaries
Elizabeth Ann LeNoir
October 26, 1954 – July 2, 2026
Born on October 26, 1954, in Baumholder, Germany, Elizabeth Ann LeNoir was the cherished daughter of Dr. James Lawrence LeNoir III and Charlotte Perkins LeNoir.
She grew up in Metairie, Louisiana, where she attended St. Martin’s Episcopal School. Following graduation, she pursued her education at the University of Florida, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Medicine. She went on to forge a long and highly successful career in Human Resources with Martin Marietta.
Beyond her professional life, she was known for her beautiful singing voice. She considered her time singing with the Bass Hits at the First Baptist Church of New Orleans to be both a profound honor and a distinct privilege.
Elizabeth was preceded in death by her loving parents and her favorite brother, James Lawrence LeNoir IV (Jimmy).
Her memory will be kept alive by her surviving family, including her favorite sister, Jamie LeNoir Bridger (John Henry); her niece, Lauren Ashley LeNoir; her nephew, Wesley Philip LeNoir; her uncle, Ray B. Perkins; and her cousins, Matt, Barbara, Mindy, Tracy, Beverly, Taylor (Travis), Jack (Ali), and Carey Perkins.
A graveside service will be held at Amite Memorial Gardens on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 11:00AM.
Dr. Derris Ray
The obituary is not available at this time. Please continue to pray for his family, employees, patients, and friends.
Sunday School Lesson for the 12th
“Unwavering Determination”
Joshua 14:1-15
A 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
Today, let’s pray for families as they strive to spend some quality time together traveling, visiting, etc.
Read the Bible in 2026
July 7th
II Samuel 8-12
Obituary
Linda Holden
January 18, 1949 – July 3, 2026
A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Friday, July 3, 2026 at The Butterfly Wing in Baton Rouge, LA. She was born January 18, 1949 in Independence, LA and was 77 years of age. She is survived by her daughter, Tracy Polezcek; son, Ronnie Polezcek (Sabrina); grandchildren, Jamie, Ronnie Jr., Kerri, Dakota, Sidney, and Virgil; great-grandchildren, Jazmyne, Sydnee, Alayna, Bowen, Lexie, K.W., Kayden, Lane, and Ryleigh; great-grandson, Jaxson; 3 brothers, Murphy Holden, Jr., Mark Shannon Holden, and Charles Wayne Passman; adopted sister, Mary Crain; numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents, Murphy Holden, Sr. and Madeline Virgina Birch; 2 sons, Sidney Sanders Polezcek, III and Sidney Wayne Polezcek; sister, Melanie Holden; brothers, John Davis Birch, Jr. and Mike Adams. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 5:00PM until 9:00PM on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Choose these and/or other articles you are interested in.
Encouraging Scripture
“Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.” Isaiah 58:10
Sunday School Lesson
I know it is not the weekend yet, but it is never too early to begin preparing for Sunday School.
July 12th
“Unwavering Determination”
Joshua 14:1-15
Special Event Ahead
Soon the children will be attending summer church camp. Pray that God will work in the hearts of both the children and the parents. Pray for the volunteers who will be chaperones for children’s camp this summer.
Volunteers
Some of the missions in our churches depend on volunteers who give of their time, talents, and gifts. When we give, we are so blessed! Don’t miss some wonderful opportunities. If you are not already involved, find an opportunity and volunteer.
Hope Center
Many people work together and accomplish so much. Let’s be thankful for those who give of their time, treasures, and funds. Our recent donations of canned goods were needed. The opportunity to give and/or serve is always available to us. Thanks to all who have contributed cans of vegetables recently. It’s never too late or too often to bless them with our gifts.
Vacation Bible Schools have been completed in June in some of our churches, but not all churches have done so at this time. Pray for VBS as children are being trained in God’s Word.
Serving in our churches requires we step-up and both participate and lead. Where are you in this process?
Closing Scripture
…. 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
I had difficulty posting yesterday. Maybe, the issue was weather…. Hopefully, all will go well this morning.
I hope all of you enjoyed the holiday and were able to watch the events from Washington D.C. Saturday night as well as attend church yesterday. We are so blessed to live in our nation!
A Scripture for Today
Serve the Lord with gladness:
come before his presence with singing.
Psalm 100:2 (KJV)
Prayer Focus
Let’s focus our prayers today on the many school-age boys and girls who are out of school for the summer. It’s good to keep a routine with daily responsibilities rather than have weeks and weeks of unscheduled time. Today, let’s pray for order and routine for all.
I hope you have time to read these and other articles this morning.
I hope you had a great weekend including church yesterday. I wonder what all God has planned for us today….
Today’s Obituary
Nelda Fay Allen
January 3, 1943 – July 3, 2026
A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Friday, July 3, 2026 at her home. She was born January 3, 1943 in Kentwood, LA and was 83 years of age. Nelda is survived by her 3 children, William Lawson, Patricia Lawson Shehane, and Thomas Mark Lawson; 2 grandchildren, Elizabeth and Matthew Shehane. Preceded in death by her parents, Pierce William Allen and Edna Dillon Allen; sister, Maggie Allen Meyer; and a very special person in her life, Norman L. ”Pete” Swearingen. Visitation at Kentwood Methodist Church from 9:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Thursday, July 9, 2026. Services conducted by Rev. Geof Davis. Interment Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Coming Soon
Children’s Camp
It’s not to0 early to begin praying for the children and the adults who will attend. Be sure to pray for those leading the camp this summer.
Be an Encourager
No matter who you are around today, try to be a positive encourager for a great day serving the Lord and encouraging others.
Prayer Focus – Let’s pray for America and all Americans on the 250th birthday of our nation. Spend some time today watching the celebration. Learn some American history and view scenes from all over our country just by watching.
Good morning, friends. Thank you for checking in this morning.
A Scripture to start the day:
“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”
II Peter 3:9
Today’s Prayer Focus
Entering a holiday weekend, many people will be traveling. Today and for the next few days, let’s pray for the gatherings that will be held and for all the travelling that willing be done to get with others, family or friends. Pray everyone follows rules for safety.
Read the Bible in 2026
July 3
I Samuel: 25-27
No New Obituaries this Morning
“Be a Dorcus!”
She is known only as the lady who helped, encouraged, and enabled others! She’s my favorite Biblical woman to try to mimic.
Today is a great day to study your Sunday School lesson if you have not done so already.
Lesson for July 5
“Sin Revealed”
Joshua 7:10-23
Missions
“Missions” don’t have to be large scale. You can be a one-person mission team and have lots of mission projects!
COMING SOON
CHILDREN’S CAMP!
Enjoy your celebrations for our great nation as she observes her 250th birthday!
“For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” Romans 10:13-15
Thank you for reading, praying, and serving today.
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth”
Acts 1:8
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s pray for those who have recently had surgeries to heal quickly and without complications. We seem to have quite a few people from our area in this situation now.
Read the Bible in 2026
July 2
I Samuel 21-24
Obituaries
I did not locate any new obituaries today, but we certainly have had a number of grieving families lately. Please pray for some of them and be an encourager to those who are dealing with grief.
Pray for the older children who are planning to attend camp this year. Even more than that, pray for their parents who will be “sending their children off ” in a camp situation for the first time. Also pray for camp leaderst who have the responsibility for working with the children this year.
Hope Center
It is not too late to purchase some canned goods or bring some from you home supply to help with the current shortage and regular need at the Hope Center. You can leave your donation at FBC, Kentwood.
Additional Scriptures
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want”
Psalm 23:1
“Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together!”
Psalm 34:3
Consider the opportunities God provides for you today and choose ways to follow Him and encourage others.
“As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me”
John 17:18-21
These verse reminds me of what some of the youth and chaperones said Sunday about going out in various places around Rome and giving their time and efforts. The verses apply to all of us all every day!
Prayer Focus
I pray that we all grow in “going out”. “doing”, and “saying”!
Read the Bible in 2026
July 1
I Samuel 18-20
John S. Brown
August 11, 1953 – June 28, 2026
It is with profound sadness and enduring love that we announce the passing of John Brown, who departed this world peacefully at his home on June 28, 2026, after a courageous battle with lung disease. John was born on August 11, 1953, in Lafayette, Louisiana, to Clarence and Hilda Brown, who have predeceased him along with six of his siblings.
John’s life was a testament to the virtues of kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. He is survived by his cherished wife of 41 years, Robin, with whom he shared a life filled with laughter, grace, and humility. Together, they raised their family and others with boundless patience and honor, creating a nurturing home that became a haven for all who entered.
A dedicated family man, John leaves behind his beloved sister, Alice Blalock, and her husband Richard; his dear children, Alida Ford, Marcie Brown, Wayne Cupit, and Daniel Brown, along with his wife Brooke. He also leaves behind a legacy in his grandchildren: Alexa Miller, John “Tater” Brown, Veronica Craig, Ashlee Brown, and Magnolia Brown, as well as his precious great-granddaughter. John’s heart was vast, and his love extended to numerous nephews, nieces, and a multitude of close friends and extended family members.
John’s career spanned many years in the construction industry, where he honed his skills as a carpenter before retiring as a respected crane operator. His work was more than just a job; it was a reflection of his dedication and craftsmanship, qualities that endeared him to colleagues and friends alike.
Beyond his professional achievements, John’s true passions lay in his hobbies and the time he spent with loved ones. He had an enduring love for horses and hunting, and he cherished every moment spent with family and friends. Those who knew John will forever remember his friendly smile, warm hugs, and how he made everyone feel as if they were the only person that existed in the room.
John had an uncanny ability to touch the lives of those around him. He was a beacon of positivity, a genuine soul who went out of his way to help others whenever he could. His kind heart and listening ear made him a role model to many, and his legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched.
A celebration of John’s life will be held on July 3, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at McKneely Funeral Home, located at 501 Avenue G, Kentwood, Louisiana 70444 with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Graveside services to follow at Mt. Hermon Cemetery in Mt. Hermon, Louisiana. Family and friends are invited to join in the reception after burial, held at the home of Daniel and Brooke Brown (121 Tullier Lane, Amite, Louisiana 70422), honoring the life of a remarkable man whose love and light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew him.
John’s departure leaves a void that can never be filled, yet his spirit will forever guide and inspire us. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His legacy is one of love, compassion, and boundless generosity, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Baptist Press – What a great news day for Christians!
And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20
We will be able to draw comfort from knowing and believing the last eleven words. We also learn part of what God expects of us .
PRAYER FOCUS
Let’s pray that we faithfully “Go” and “Tell”.
Another key word of our faith is “Do”.
READ THE BIBLE IN 2026
July 30
I Samuel 15 – 17
OBITUARY
Cindy Sue Allen
October 22, 1949 – June 27, 2026
On June 27, 2026 at 11:42AM my sweet, beautiful wife of 30 years, Cindy Sue Allen took her last breath here on Earth and her first breath in Heaven. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. She was 76 years old, born on October 22, 1949. She was a lifetime resident in Arcola/Amite area. She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Steve Allen; son, Wilson Dean Ellzey, III; daughter-in-law, Marisol Ellzey; granddaughter, Alexandria Ellzey Miller (Colby Miller); grandsons, Jon Jovi Orjuela and Isaac Brice Ellzey; great- granddaughters, Hadley Monroe Wall, Finley Harper Wall, Oakley Tatum Wall, and Everly Marie Wall; great-grandson, John Banks Miller. She is preceded in death by her father, Albert Wilbert Fletcher; mother, Dorothy Paige Carpenter; grandfather, Gus Carpenter; grandmother, Winnie Bennett Carpenter; daughter, Nicole Paige Ellzey. A Private Memorial Service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
(Cindy grew up in Arcola and was a year behind me in school. Our paths crossed again a few years ago.)
Coming Soon – Two Rivers WMU Meeting
Our July meeting will be in Greensburg. I’ll get you more information soon.
Baptist Press
One of today’s articles caught my attention right away.
“Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.”
Isaiah 58:10
Do you want to help address a need?
This reminds me of a current need that you can help address. The Hope Center is currently low on canned goods needed in their ministry. You can help by delivering some canned goods to the church office at Kentwood Baptist Church. The church will deliver all donations to The Hope Center.
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: ‘They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” 2 Corinthians 9:7-9
Opportunity Tonight
Prayer meeting at FBC, Kentwood will begin at 6:00 tomorrow night. We would love to have you join us.
The Prayer Link 
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