SATURDAY

You are my refuge and my shield;

I have put my hope in your word.

Psalms 119:114

Read the Bible (2023)

  • Last weei of these Bible Readings
  • Week 52: Hope: New Day Dawning
  • Psalm 33:18-20
  • Psalm 43:5
  • Psalm 146:3-9
  • Psalm 119:74
  • “The most meaningful benefit of hope is: . . . .”

Read the Bible Everyday in 2024

  • January 20
  • Genesis 36: 1-43
  • Psalm 11: 4-7
  • Proverbs 3: 5-6
  • Matthew 13: 10-35

Prayer Focus

Today, our focus is still on our friends and neighbors as they deal with these extremely cold weather we are not accustomed to having.

As you pray, ask God what you can do for these people who are not well-prepared for weather this cold.

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering

What better way to support missions than to provide for missionaries as they reach out to the lost all around the world! 

Elmer Earl “Skeeter” Ballow

February 5, 1948 – January 18, 2024

U.S. Veteran

A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Thursday, January 18, 2024 at The Lodge at Tangi Pines in Amite, LA. He was born February 5, 1948 in Baton Rouge, LA and was 75 years of age. Skeeter spent the majority of his days at his home on Airport Road. He enjoyed chopping wood, gardening, and fishing. You would typically find him sitting on his porch, listening to the breeze or in his home watching football. He was the self proclaimed number one arrowhead hunter in the state of Louisiana. He loved showing off his collection. He loved his visits from his children and grandchildren. Skeeter was a very simple man, but yet complicated in his own ways. He will be missed by all, for he was a great father, brother and friend. He is survived by his son, Jonah Ballow and wife, Casey; 2 sisters, Patricia Guidry and Earline Harrington; 1 brother, Harry Williamson; 10 grandchildren, Austin Ballow, Darien Ballow Miller, Reese Ballow, Pearce Ballow, Luke Ballow, Lundyn Ballow, Betty Ballow, Emmie Ballow, Peyton Dupuy, and Jordan Dupuy; 1 great-grandson, Benjamin Miller. Preceded in death by his mother, Annie Ballow; father, Earl Ballow; daughter, Honey Ballow Dupuy. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 5:00PM until Memorial Services at 7:00PM on Monday, January 22, 2024. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Sunday School Lesson

Tomorrow’s lesson will be from Genesis 9 and includes Noah and the Covenant God made with him that the world would never again be destroyed with water.

Anna Lee

FRIDAY

The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights.

Habakkuk 3:19

Obituary

Laura Lee Tiner Robertson

October 4, 1945 – January 17, 2024

A resident of Pine Grove, LA, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 surrounded by her family.  She was born October 4, 1945 in Orange, TX and was 78 years of age. Laura Lee was never shy of hard work as she spent many hours on the dairy with her loving husband of 62 years. She loved reading, quilting, and spending time with her ever growing family. She was a friend to everyone she met and most of all she put God first in her life. Laura Lee is survived by her husband, Eugene Robertson; daughters, Tessa Robertson Crouch (Stefan) and Scarlett Robertson Breckwoldt (Chris); sons, Daryl Robertson (Mary Jo), Curtis Robertson, and Hilton Polk Robertson (Regina); sister, Jelaine Tiner Fitzhugh (Buddy); grandchildren, Jay Crouch (Samantha), April Hayden (Kyle), Dustin Robertson (Amanda), Brittany Cockerham (Ben), Amanda Hyde (Devin), Austin Robertson, Hunter Crouch, Kristin Sicard (Jody), Cassidy Johnson (Myles),  Shelby McKee (Aaron), Bryce Robertson (Ashley), Ashton Breckwoldt (Gaten), Billy Trabeaux (Lindsey), Barbie Trabeaux, and Brandi Thomas (Kane); many great-grandbabies that she loved and adored; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her mother, Lucille Strickland Tiner; father, Polk Tiner; brothers, Wayne Kenyon Tiner and Donald Polk Tiner. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite,  from 5:00PM until 9:00PM on Friday and from 11:00AM until religious services at 2:00PM on Saturday, January 20, 2024. Interment Robertson Family Cemetery, Pine Grove, LA. Pallbearers will be Jay Crouch, Dustin Robertson, Hunter Crouch, Bryce Robertson, David Tiner, and Malcolm Fitzhugh. The Robertson Family extends their sincere appreciation for the excellent care provided by Pinnacle Hospice, Ethel Blair, and Amanda Blades. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

I knew and liked this lady. We shared many interests. I taught her children and saw their parents at many school events.

Read the Bible in 2023

  • January 19
  • Psalm 21:1 – 22:5
  • John’s description of heaven helps me . . . .

Read the Bible Everyday in 2024

  • January 19
  • Genesis 34:1 – 35:29
  • Psalm 11: 1-3
  • Proverbs 3: 3-4
  • Matthew 12:38 – 13:9

Prayer Focus

Pray for the people who are without heat, food, water, and or electricity/butane. They are numerous. We have two more very cold days before we return to our more usual type of winter days.

Prayer also for those on your prayer list.

Pray for the schools in our parish to ALL be able to open.

Pray for safe drivers on the highways when there is ice on the road.

Pray for those who have had broken pipes and damage in their homes.

Anna Lee

THURSDAY

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.

ISAIAH 26:33

Prayer Focus

I hope last night was a better night since the temperature was not quite as cold. Yesterday, when the temperature got above freezing, many of you got to check on your pipes and learn that all was well, but a few of you found water running where it was not suppose to be running. I cannot fix pipes, but if there is anything you need in my skills range, please call me. I’m sure there are plenty of others to help all of you on a very difficult day. 

Please thank God for all the homes and businesses that fared well. Pray for the homes and businesses that didn’t. Pray for all the homes and businesses that will be without water because the water supply is diminished. Help others as you can.

Read the Bible (2023)

  • II Timothy 4:6-8
  • Hebrews 19:32-39
  • Because of my relationship with Jesus, I . . . .”

Read the Bible Everyday in 2024

  • January 18
  • Genesis 32:1-33:20
  • Psalm 10:13-18
  • Proverbs 3:1-2
  • Matthew 12:9-37

Prayer List

Dwaine Creel

Jackie Babin

Dan’l Johnson

Mike Sumrall

People of Kentwood (Town) – No Water: Boil List

Add those on your list.

More Freezing Temperatures Ahead -Be Prepared

Thanks for reading and praying today.

Anna Lee

WEDNESDAY

God is our refuge and strength,

an ever-present help in trouble.

Psalms 46:1

Prayer Focus

We survived a long, cold day yesterday and a short, cold night last night. I trust you did too. Let’s thank God we made it through both the day and the night. It’s 16 degrees and still going down a little more. Hopefully, the sunshine today will melt the ice today and things will be better tonight. Let’s thank God for helping get this far and staying with us today. Let’s also ask Him to prepare us for the next cold weather Saturday and Sunday.

Read the Bible in 2023

  • John 12:26
  • John 14:1-6
  • Revelation 7:9-17
  • “The most beautiful aspect of heaven is . . . .”

Read the Bible Everyday of 2024

  • January 17
  • Genesis 31: 1-55
  • Psalm 10:7-12
  • Proverbs 2:20-22
  • Matthew 11:20-12:8

Obituary

Gary Wayne Dees, Sr.

January 31, 1949 – January 15, 2024

GARY’S OBITUARY

U.S. Veteran

Gary Wayne Dees, Sr., Kentwood, LA, was born on January 31, 1949, and went to be with the Lord and his soulmate on Monday, January 15, 2024 at the age of 74. His devoted wife of 50 years was surely waiting as he entered the arms of his Savior. Gary, called by many “Poppa”, was known to be a slightly rugged man in earlier years but later became a humble and devoted husband, dad, and grandpa. He adored his family, the Lord, and his church family. Although he wasn’t always a fan of animals his wife would bring home, he later grew the same heart for animals. However, his heart seemed to revolve around his grandkids and he was the foundation of his family. Earlier in his life, Gary served 4 years in the Army and participated in 2 tours to Vietnam. Throughout the years after his service Gary went through many trials as his body began to fail him. He lost the majority of his vision, yet never failed to make the best out of his circumstances even if it meant making jokes of himself. He was a veteran, a fighter, a committed husband, a firm father, and a passionate grandfather. He is survived by his oldest son, Gary Dees, Jr. and wife, Sarah Dees, of Roseland, LA, youngest son, Jonathan Leo Dees and wife, Amy Dees, of Albany, LA, and daughter, Leslie Jannell Dees and friend, Ronald Walker, of Wilmer, LA; his grandchildren, Shawn Walker and wife, Beth Walker, Brentley Dees, Alex Miller and Madison, Olivia Dees and Beau Slaven, Meghan Dees and Nathan Graves, and Trey Dees; great-grandchildren, Lexie and Lizzie Walker. As well as survived by his siblings, Lester Dees and wife, Judy, Nell Dees and wife, Glenda, Reed Dees and wife Chris, Nell Bond, Sarah Bankston, and Sharon Lindsey; and numerous nieces, nephews, church family, and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Ima Jean Dees; his loving wife, Maxine Janet Dees; sister, Carrol Reed Dees; nephew, Brentley Reed Dees, and great-grand-daughter, Arianna Luella Miller; three brothers-in-law, Charles F. Bond, Jerry Lindsey, and Leroy Bankston. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6:00PM until 9:00PM on Friday, January 19, 2024  and from 8:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Saturday, January 20, 2024. Services conducted by Bro. Eric Catha and Bro. Rick Ledoux. Interment Dees Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Baptist Press

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This includes new stories you will want to read.

Please us your prayer list for praying today.

Anna Lee

TUESDAY

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you;

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10

Weather

We made through the night. It’s still getting colder. I hope you are blessed with the freedom to stay home this morning. 

If you have problems, I hope you have a family member or friend you can call on if you need them. Don’t be outside too long at a time. The temperature is still getting colder at this time.

Let’s thank God for out homes and ways to stay warm.

Read the Bible 2023

  • January 16
  • Ephesians 1:15-2:10
  • Colosians 3: 1-12
  • “An obstacle on my road to heaven is . . . .”

Read the Bible Every Day of 2024

  • Genesis 29:13-30:43
  • Psalms 10: 1-6
  • Proverbs 2:16-19
  • Matthew 11:1-19

Barry McDaniel, Ph.D.

January 14, 2024

April 19, 1956 ~ January 10, 2024

Barry McDaniel, Ph.D., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully with his wife Kay holding his hand at Baton Rouge General on January 10, 2024. Born and raised in Pine Grove, Louisiana, to Charline and Shorty McDaniel, Barry was a pillar of strength and love within his community and family.

Barry became a Christian as a young boy and began serving as a church pianist at 8 years old. Over the next 50 years, he shared his musical talents and served as a church pianist and organist in many churches in the Baton Rouge area and Centreville, Mississippi. He was a member of Jefferson Baptist Church and dearly loved his church family.

Barry’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to education and service. He held a Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology/Audiology and a Master of Science in Educational Diagnostics from Baylor University, a Ph.D. in Vocational Education from Louisiana State University, and a Visual Impairment Specialist Certificate from Vanderbilt University. His passion for education led him to a distinguished career as an Educational Diagnostician at the Louisiana School for the Visually Impaired, where he was honored as the Educational Diagnostician of the Year in 2011. He was an active member of the Louisiana Educational Diagnostician Association, contributing his expertise and passion to the betterment of the educational community.

Barry’s love story with his wife, Kay, began in a Sunday School class in Baton Rouge, the very first weekend Kay moved to the city. Their bond was immediate, and their love story became a testament to their shared faith and love for family. Together, they raised two wonderful sons, Michael and Waid, who brought them immense joy and pride. Michael and Waid brought Jen and Jaina, two sweet daughters-in-law into the family. Barry was also a doting grandfather to Sydney, Chase, Taryn, Krysta, and the soon-to-be Baby Mc. (May 2024)

Barry was known for his infectious sense of humor, which brought laughter and light into every room he entered. His kindness and love were evident in his every interaction, and he left a lasting impact on everyone he met. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Barry was an ardent supporter of LSU and Baylor sports. One of Barry’s proudest accomplishments was being a member of the 1974 Oak Forest Academy State Championship basketball team!

Barry is survived by his devoted wife of 31 years, Kay Humphrey McDaniel, his sons and their spouses, Michael and Jen, Waid and Jaina, and his precious grandchildren, Sydney, Chase, Taryn, and Krysta. Barry is also survived by his sister, Rickie Sibley and her husband Bobby, and a host of other relatives and friends who will miss his humor, kindness, and love.

A visitation will be held on Friday, January 19, from 9-11 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. at Jefferson Baptist Church conducted by Senior Pastor Dr. David Goza. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Gideons International in Barry’s memory to help spread the gospel message.

As we celebrate the life of Dr. Barry McDaniel, we remember a man who loved God, his family, and LSU! He was funny, kind, and loving. His legacy of service, education, and family will continue to inspire those who knew him. His laughter will echo in our hearts and his love will forever be a part of our lives.

Seale Funeral Home

Thomas “Gerald” Brunett, Sr.

August 8, 1942 – January 14, 2024

A resident of Loranger, LA, passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2024 at his home. He was born August 8, 1942 in Independence, LA and was 81 years of age. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Bennett Brunett; sons, Thomas “Tommy” Gerald Brunett, Jr., Todd Victor Brunett, and Charles Troy Brunett; sister, Velma; brothers, Melvin and Paul; grandchildren, Jason, Brandi, Callie, Kristin, Afton, Charlee, Bodie, and Blake; great-grandchildren, Jalie, Erin, Rheid, Wacey, Blake, Jr. , Conner, and Layla. Preceded in death by his parents, Charles Brunett and Epha Force Brunett; brothers, Jack, Elwood, and Adrian; sisters, Agness, Audry, Cordilia, and Rita. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9:00AM until religious services at 1:00PM on Thursday, January 18, 2024. Services conducted by Bro. Randy Smith. Interment Dan Cooper Family Cemetery, Loranger, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Donald Ray Cutrer

November 8, 1954 – January 12, 2024

A resident of Walker, LA, passed away on Friday, January 12, 2024 at Zachary Manor Nursing Home in Zachary, LA. He was born November 8, 1954 in Magnolia, MS and was 69 years of age. He is survived by his wife, Donna Alley Cutrer; daughter, Sabrina Kay Cutrer; son, Joshua Ray Cutrer and wife, Jessica Mack Cutrer; step-daughter, Robin Suzanne Frith; mother, Mary Ann Day Cutrer; grandchildren, Destinee Keller and husband, Skyler Keller, Ellis Davis, Alexis Frith, Marissa Babin, Jessica Babin, and Morgan Cutrer; great-grandson, Korbyn Keller; and a sister, Deborah Cutrer Powers and husband, Ricky Powers. Preceded in death by his son, Tommy Cutrer; father, Hugh Douglas Cutrer; grandparents, Jesse and Matiela Day and Marshall and Ruth Cutrer; and many aunts and uncles. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 10:00AM until religious services at 12:00 Noon on Wednesday, January 17, 2024. Services conducted by Bro. Joe Day. Interment Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Prayer Focus

Pray for people to have means to stay warm and the knowledge to stay inside and warm. The temperatures will not get above freezing until this afternoon! Do what you NEED to do outside and then get back inside. Use the phone to check on others.

PRAY

There are many things and many people to pray for today. Be sure to remember to pray today.

Anna Lee

MONDAY

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

Good morning.

I do not want to become a weather channel, but I do want you to be aware and alert. I’ve already checked out the weather report. You should do so too. Then, we can pray for God to watch over us in these unusual conditions. Let’s do our part by being prepared.

https://weather.com/weather/today/l/2c7b5e1d5e233e7fe91099412aa77922331c5370daa50b9a817f2d9bf1a3d03d

Prayer Focus

Today is a day when the weather and personal needs meet. Check around to be sure your family, your church, and your neighbors are prepared for the coming weather situation. Pray for those with serious conditions to be prepared. As I learned a long time ago, we need to “put feet to our prayers”!

Baptist Press

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Bible Reading for 2023

  • January 15, 2024
  • Hebrews 4: 14-16
  • Hebrews 5: 4-10
  • “I don’t fear death because . . . .”

Reading the Bible Everyday of 2024

  • Genesis 27: 30-29: 12
  • Psalm 9: 13-20
  • Proverbs 2: 11-15
  • Matthew 10: 21-42

Praying for safety, warmth, food, and water for each of you. If you do not have someone to check on you, ask a friend or neighbor to check on you periodically and/or ask them if you can call them if needed. You can return the favor by praying for them.

Anna Lee

SUNDAY

Be strong and courageous.

Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Deuteronomy 31:6

Read the Bible 2023

  • 1-14-24
  • John 5: 1-15
  • “Knowing I have eternal life now affects . . . .”

Read the Bible Everyday in 2024

  • Genesis 26:12 – 27:29
  • Psalm 9:7 -12
  • Proverbs 2:9-10
  • Matthew 10:1-20

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s continue the focus on preparations for the cold weather.

Let’s also pray for the many who have lost a family member or friend recently.

Let’s also pray for those who are sick or have had recent procedures:

Mike Estay, Dwayne Creel, Jackie Babin, Bro. Darryl, etc.

Today is Sunday!

I hope you have already prepared your lesson from Genesis 8.

It’s cold, so dress warmly.

Be on time!

Deaths

Bessie Barker

February 29, 1940 – January 10, 2024


Covington, Louisiana

On Wednesday January 10, 2024, Bessie Barker was called home by the Lord surrounded by her family.

Bessie was born February 29, 1940, Beattyville, Kentucky, and made Louisiana her home, retiring from La Capitol Federal Credit Union after a long career in banking.

She is survived by her daughter Bridget Barker Rusche (Bill), 4 grandchildren, Bailey, Bella, Misty and Mindy. 3 great grandchildren, Zoey, Charlotte and Skylar. She is preceded in death by  her husband Perry Lee Barker and daughter Beth Ann Schmitt. 

Bessie was a strong Christian woman that will be missed by all that knew her. 

Graveside services will be held Tuesday January 16, 2024 at 2 pm at the Mountain View Cemetery, 1019 Valley Drive, Bristol, Virginia.

Go rest high on that mountain!

Jimmie W. Adams

July 26, 1956 – January 10, 2024

A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at her home. She was born July 26, 1956 in New Orleans, LA and was 67 years of age. She is survived by her husband, Bryan Adams; sons, Shane Gisclair (Tammy) and Steven Adams; 3 grandchildren, Shane Gisclair, Jr., Brittany Gisclair (Dusty), and Blaine Gisclair; 2 great-grandchildren, Ivy Gisclair and Cove Maes; 1 sister, Sandra Hargis; 3 brothers, James Jackson, Wayne Jackson (Martha), and Benjamin Spaulding (Palmer). Preceded in death by her mother, Barbara Jackson; father, James Lee Wactor; 2 brothers, William Atkins (Billy) and James M. Wactor (Rusty); God Mother to Robert Pellegrin and Christina Dufour Sparacello. Memorial Services will be scheduled at a later date and will be held at the Visitation of Our Lady Catholic Church, Marrero, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Gary “Ted” Chapman

April 5, 1953 – January 11, 2024

Gary “Ted” Chapman passed away peacefully surrounded by, and in the embrace of his 3 sons, on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at his residence, Summerfield Senior Living. He was born April 5, 1953 in McComb, MS and was 70 years of age. Ted was a devoted family man and a lover of all things outdoors. He was a mountain man at heart, or so he wished, weaving tales of grand hunting exploits that left us all in stitches.  Given the choice, he would either be spending time with his children and grandchildren or chasing whitetail deer among the running rivers and deep hardwoods. Both environments were a sanctuary where the bustling demands of life were exchanged for peace and solace. Having graduated from LSU law school, most knew him as an attorney who practiced law for 30 years out of Amite. Ted earned his client’s loyalty through steadfastly delivering on his promises and fiercely advocating for their interests. Amongst those who knew him in the courtroom, he had a reputation for being a Pitbull. He is survived by his daughter, Jessica Chapman; sons, Dylan Chapman, Tyler Chapman & Gabriel Chapman; grandchildren, Anna Marie Chapman, Tucker Chapman, Judah Chapman, Dawson Chapman, Raegan Chapman, Brennan Chapman, Kaylan Chapman & Nathan Chapman; sister, Linda Dunn; former spouse (who remained a dear friend to the very end), Gwen Wallace. Preceded in death by his father, Marshall “MC” Chapman, Sr.; mother, Mavis Gill; brother, Marshall Chapman, Jr.; sister, Judy Lenoir; wife, Karen Long. Pallbearers will be Dylan Chapman, Tyler Chapman, Gabriel Chapman, Tucker Chapman, Judah Chapman & Nathan Chapman. Visitation will be held at House on the Rock church in Amite on Tuesday, January 16 from 5:30PM until 9:00PM and Wednesday, January 17 from 9:00AM until 11:00AM. The funeral service will begin at 11:00AM on Wednesday, January 17. Burial will follow at Shiloh Cemetery in Pine Grove. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Have a great Lord’s Day.

Anna Lee

Saturday

I am doing a new thing!

Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Isaiah 43:19

Good News!

Jackie Babin has progressed and is now back at home. Please continue to pray for her (and Bob). Thank-you for praying for her, but please continue to pray.

Read the Bible (Finishing 2023)

Heaven: Home at Last

  • Matthew 5: 1-12
  • Matther 6: 19-21
  • Matthew 19: 21
  • “Right now, my bank account in heaven would look link . . . .”

Read the Bible Everyday

  • Genesis 24: 55-26: 11
  • Psalm 9: 1-6
  • Proverbs 2: 6-8
  • Matthew 9:18-38

Sunday School Lesson

  • Genesis 8
  • After the Flood: Land & Aftermath

Cold Weather Ahead

David and I bought gas and groceries yesterday. The grocery store was packed. Shop earlier rather than later because of the crowds and the availability of the items you need.

If you need heating fuel, be sure to check your tanks to know you have plenty. Also, check the tank if you have a generator. We may have times without electricity next week as trees fall on the power lines. Have a plan!

Bake or Cook Something Extra (to share).

Some people will have a struggle preparing for the upcoming weather. Bake or cook something extra you can share.

Move plants to a warmer location. 

Water then today and then AFTER the temperatures rise above freezing.

Do what you can. 

If you are limited in what you can physically do for someone else, please pray for them. You can pray for specific individuals and for people in general.
Please continue to pray and do for people. We all can use a little kindness periodically. Be on the “giving” end if you are not on the “needing” end. Be thankful you can share and not receive this year.

God is good! He’s good to us in many ways! Have you told Him so lately?

Last, but now least!

Pray for our country as we battle for “good” around the world. Pray for people who strive to do what is right t0 be safe in difficult circumstances.

Pray for our country, the leadership, and those who are currently running for public offices. Ask God to put the right people in place to lead our country.

Thank-you for your desire to pray.

Anna Lee

FRIDAY

He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.

Many will see and fear the LORD and put their trust in him.

Psalms 40:3

Update on Jackie Babin

I spoke with her yesterday. She’s improving and ready to be fully well, but that will take time. She will possibly be able to come home today. Keep praying for her.

Obituary

Anthony Joseph Laciura

August 6, 1948 – January 9, 2024

Anthony Joseph Laciura passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 9, 2024. Born August 6, 1948, Anthony was a brick layer and the owner of Joe’s Hilltop Grocery. He had an amazing sense of humor and an unwavering faith in Christ and the church. He lived every day of his life to honor and serve God. If you have been around this area, chances are that you have seen some of his beautiful brick work or have talked to someone who has a story about something special he did for them. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Anthony Laciura and Sara Ann Cuti Laciura. Anthony leaves behind his wife of 56 years, Jerry Dreher Laciura, one son, Michael Laciura (Jessica), three daughters, Lisa Chambers (Brett), Ashley Kyzar (Roy), and Farrah Laciura. Seven grandchildren, Rachel Laciura, Marc Chambers, Christopher Chambers, Amber Bailey, Jennifer Kyzar, Heather Kyzar, and Hannah Matise. Seven great grandchildren and one sister, Clara Berry (Alan). Visitation will be held at Mckneely Funeral Home, Amite, on Monday, January 15, 2024 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM and on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 from 8:00 AM until 9:30 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00AM at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church, Independence on Tuesday. Interment at Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA following mass. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Read the Bible 2023

  • January 12, 2024
  • I Corinthians 15: 20-58
  • “The most interesting thing about this is . . . .”

Read the Bible Everyday

  • Genesis 24: 1-54
  • Psalm 8: 1-9
  • Proverbs 2: 1-15
  • Matthew 8: 29 – 9: 17

Cold Weather Tasks

Most of the time these tasks are best done early, not at the last minute.

  • Fill the gas tanks of your automobiles
  • Purchase hardware you need.
  • Purchase groceries.
  • Check on neighbors, friends, and relatives.
  • Pray for protection for everyone during the cold weather.

Baptist Message

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Prayer Time

Do you begin your prayer time by telling God thank-you?

If not, give it a try for a few days. It will change your focus!

Thank-you for reading and praying today. 

I hope it makes a difference in your day!

Anna Lee

THURSDAY

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires;

Ephesians 4:22

Obituary

John Leonard Morgan

June 6, 1946 – January 9, 2024

John Leonard Morgan passed away quietly in his sleep on Monday, January 9, 2024. He was born June 6, 1946 in Independence, Louisiana and was 77 years of age. He is survived by his wife, Mary, of 58 years, who was also his high school sweetheart. Also surviving are his children, Randy (Donna) and Jeff (Candace). He was “Dude” to his five grandchildren; Bailey, Madison, Noah, Hudson, and Lorelai “Lulu” Morgan. He became a Christian at the age of 12 and tried to follow Christ by reading his Bible daily and attending church even while serving in the Navy. He was a member of First Baptist Church Amite and a former member of First Baptist Church Covington, where he served as a greeter, a position he dearly loved. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Christine Lawson Bourgeois; father, John Henry Morgan; brothers, Tommy Morgan and Ronnie Morgan; great-nephew, Devin Morgan; step-father, Wilbert Bourgeois. He is also survived by his sisters, Elizabeth Daray and Lori Sanders (Max) and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

He was a 1964 graduate of Amite High School. After sustaining injuries, he stayed on as the manager of the 1963 State Championship Football team under the leadership of Coach Jack Pope. Even though injuries kept him from playing football, he made managing the team a top priority. Immediately after graduating high school, he began his barbering career by entering New Orleans Barber & Beauty School. He spent approximately 56 years cutting hair until illness forced him to retire which he never intended to do. 

In 1967, during the Vietnam Conflict, he joined the Navy and was a barber in the crew’s barber shop. He was then moved to the officer’s barber shop while serving aboard the USS Howard W. Gilmore in Charleston, South Carolina. 

The family would like to thank the caregivers from Home Instead, who were wonderful and took such good care of him. Also VitalCaring Hospice for going above and beyond. 

Pallbearers will be Omar Banos, Daniel Goldsby, Russ Guzzardo, Brandon McElveen, Tracy Perkins, Keith Sumrall and David Wallace. 

Family and friends are invited to attend services at McKneely Funeral Home in Amite from 1:00 until 3:00 on Saturday, January 13th. A funeral service will begin at 3:00, conducted by Dr. Matthew White. Interment will follow at Mulberry Street Cemetery in Amite. 

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a contribution to the church or charity of your choice.  

Hospital

Jackie Babin is progressing well following her surgery Tuesday. I’m sure Bob will be thrilled when he gets her home.

Illness

Dwayne Creel has shingles to complicate the other issues he has been having. Please pray for him. 

Read the Bible Daily

  • John 14: 1-4
  • Philippians 3: 20-21
  • Colossians 3: 1-4
  • I John 3: 1-3
  • “Thinking about this makes me feel . . . .”

Read the Bible in 2024

  • Genesis 21:22 – 23:20
  • Psalm 7: 9-17
  • Proverbs 1: 32-33
  • Matthew 8:5-27

I’m up to date on these daily readings. I hope you are too!

Prayer Focus

Today, as we hear many weather reports about the very cold weather next week, focus your thoughts on not only what you need to do to prepare you home, but also on what others might need to do. For men, you might need to help someone prepare their home and property.

When David was so sick a few years ago, I asked him about the pipes. He assured me they were fine. But, along came a friend when we really needed one. He brought his own supplies and would take no money for helping us. He taught me a good lesson on helping others when they needed help. I’ll never forget James Rimes for helping us and for teaching me such a lesson. He ranks high on my list of friends/heroes.

Please begin to pray for God to lead you to help someone get a supply of needed items and preparations. He can use us all!

Sometimes our prayers. become our greatest teachers and guides. Learn from those who set such examples for you! Learn from God’s messages as we pray and ask Him to help us help others.

Anna Lee