I keep my eyes always on the LORD.

With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

~Psalm 16:8~

Sandra Hughes is now home following her his surgery. Thank God for her progress so far. Pray for continued improvement.

Baptist Press – http://www.bpnews.net/

Baptist Message – http://baptistmessage.com/

Bible Reading Plan – “Who I am in Christ” – Romans 8:11-14

Operation Christmas Child

My granddaughter, Madison, and I worked in the Operation Christmas Child (OCC) room yesterday. A lot of progress was made. As I worked, I noticed we need more items. I want to share this link with ideas of items to pack for each age group. I suggest picking items and buying multiple items of those things. All donations can be left in the church office or the classroom next to the choir room. This link will be helpful in getting you started. I bought some zip lock bags and some sale items yesterday. The day before I bought some items from Dollar Tree. School supplies are being put out now. I read this morning that Dirt Cheap has lots of school supplies in. Let’s use the link to see what OCC suggests and the sales to get lots of school supplies.

https://www.samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/what-goes-in-my-shoebox-suggestions/

Let’s get the items turned in so we can have a great packing party again this year. Let me know if you have a couple of hours to help preparing items or want to make some items at church or at home.

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“Lord, take notice of the threats they have made, and allow us, your servants, to speak your message with all boldness.”

~Acts 4:29 GNT~

In connection to this verse, I want to share an article. No threats, just boldness!

Mythbuster: Louisville pastor triples attendance in 6 months by knocking on doors

http://kentuckytoday.com/stories/mythbuster-louisville-pastor-triples-attendance-in-6-months-by-knocking-on-doors,8782?fbclid=IwAR0HoT_sjSS9GlxfnaKnzf4hPPmLCHvKvvUo3bCEZMaH3X0PeZ6Bz60Q6XA#.XQ736WU34Yk.facebook

Today, I want to tell you about three members of the same family who have been experiencing health issues. You may not know any of them, but I am sure you recognize that periodically a family will have multiple needs. Pray for this family today, please.

Mike Moore, married to Robin Wilson, had a cancer behind an eye. His latest concern was his liver, but tests came back negative.
Melanie Wilson Mitchum has had a severe reaction to a medication or medication combination, but hopefully the problem has identified.
David Bryant, a cousin of the Wilsons, has been very sick. After a long fight, he is better. Today, he will be having surgery.

Gaylon Cutrer had Monday and Tuesday appointments this week. Pray her gets a good report today.

Buddy Morris seems to be holding his own. His next appointments will be mid-July.

Bryan Tate has completed ten months of initial treatment at MD Anderson and is moving into the next phase of treatment. One big advantage is more time at home and less time at Houston.

David’s blood level was 8.4 yesterday, so he didn’t need blood. He also did not get his Procrit. Hopefully, this is a good sign that his MDS is more stable. Then, we can focus on the liver.

Lawanna Carter Smith shared the obituary for her sister, Sandra.

Sandra Breeland Fontenot

October 26, 1950 – June 23, 2019

Sandra Breeland Fontenot, 68, of Quitman, Mississippi passed away on June 23, 2019 at her residence.

She was born on October 26, 1950 in Kentwood, LA.

Sandra is survived by her husband, David Fontenot; sons, Michael Fontenot and Joshua Fontenot; daughter, Aimee (Jacob) Sudduth; mother, Molly Carter; brothers, Ronald Breeland, Keith Carter, Edwin Ensign and Matt Ensign; sisters, Debbie Whittle, Linda Carroll and Lawana Carter Smith; grandchildren, Rebekah Sudduth, Elizabeth Suddeth, Madison Fontenot and Sophie Fontenot and aunts, Emily McMillan and Ann Carrier.

She was preceded in death by her father, Edwin Ensign, Jr..

Visitation will be held Thursday, June 27, 2019 after 5:00 pm at Wright’s Funeral Home, Quitman, Mississippi.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, June 28, 2019, 2:00 pm at the Woodland Cemetery in Kentwood, Louisiana.

Scripture Writing Plan – “Who I am in Christ” – Revelations 1: 5-6, 12:11

Prayer is simply talking to God and listening to God. Give it a try today.

Anna Lee

Saturday

Have I not commanded you?

Be strong and courageous.

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

~Joshua 1:9~

Jane Blades is back in the community. Additional testing did not show a heart problem. She has a new medication and an appointment with her cardiologist.

Mr. Frank Erwin had another procedure yesterday that will hopefully help him. He and “Miss” Barbara will appreciate your prayers.

Bryan Tate has completed another phase of treatment at MD Anderson. Pray for him and Rita as they get to spend more time at home and less time in the hospital.

The Hatchels who flew into the country Tuesday have now driven to Kentwood. Granddaddy and I were so thrilled to see them. Four years since seeing three of them is too long! We will be having a good time together.

Pine Ridge United Methodist Church will have their monthly breakfast Sunday morning at 8:00 A.M. You are invited to join them for a delicious buffet and donate to a worthy cause they have chosen to support this month.

Scripture Writing Plan – “Who I am in Christ” – Matthew 5:13=16.

Please continue to pray for the youth of FBC, Kentwood as they continue to be at camp at Ridgecrest in North Carolina.

Several churches has very successful Vacation Bible Schools this week. If you have children who are interested in one to the coming week, I’m sure there will be one or more to choose from.

I’m so thankful for all of you who pray for these and other needs. You make a difference!

Anna Lee

Friday

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up.

And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”

~Hebrews 12:1 NLT~

Let’s pray for Mr. Frank and “Miss” Barbara Erwin and Tate and Leisha who are their faithful caregivers at this time. Mr. Frank is back in Baton Rouge and “Miss” Barbara had more foot surgery, but is home now. The doctors didn’t have a diagnosis on Mr. Frank as of yesterday afternoon, but are still looking.

Pray for Heather Miller of the New Zion area. She is on trip to the Ukraine where she will be working in a camp. She is on a mission to serve as called.

Pray for Sandra Hughes, the mother of Cheryl and Linda for many of you. She fell and broke a hip yesterday. She will need our prayer as she deals with this issue.

Pray for the youth of FBC, K and their leaders as they are at Ridgecrest in NC this week. Pray they draw closer to God and each other.

Rebecca Darlene McMorris Ballard

October 20, 1951 – June 17, 2019

Rebecca Darlene McMorris Ballard, born October 20, 1951 in Baton Rouge, LA, went to her eternal home with her Lord on June 17, 2019. A devoted and loving wife of almost 50 years to Ronald Keith Ballard. She was a resident of Pine Grove, LA and an active member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. She is retired from LA Home Builders Association. She was a special lady. Always with a smile for everyone and willing to help in any way she could. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Darlene is survived by her husband, Ronald Keith Ballard; mother, Rebecca Simmons McMorris; sisters, Diane M. Snyder (Tom) and Lucinda M. Tarver (Gene); sister-in-law, Brenda Ballard McMorris; nieces and nephews; Holleigh McMorris Crow (Brett), Valmon Evans Mcmorris (Nikki), Shawn Revel (Lana), Shannon Revel Brasseaux (Josh), Jeremy K. Ghaffari, and numerous great nieces and nephews; She was preceded in death by her father, Valmon J. McMorris, Sr., and brother, Valmon J. McMorris, Jr. Visitation will be Thursday, June 20, 2019 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, Pine Grove , LA from 1:00 PM till funeral service at 3:00 PM , conducted by Rev. Paul Cantrell with interment in Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Honorary Pall Bearers, Ralph Thompson; Pall Bearers, Manny Falcon, Dwight Falcon, Murphy Jenkins ,Collins Jenkins, Paul Carpenter, Valmon McMorris, Brett Crow and Josh Brasseaux. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Louis Edward Thigpen

November 26, 1931 – June 18, 2019

A resident of Greensburg, LA, passed away on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. He was born November 26, 1931 in Meridian, MS and was 87 years of age. Louis was a member of St. Helena Catholic Church in Amite. He will be remembered as a hard-working man who truly loved his family. An avid storyteller, he most enjoyed sharing memories and proud moments about his life and theirs. He is survived by 7 children and their spouses, 27 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren; and 5 great-great-grandchildren. Louis is survived by his current wife of 16 years, Frances Virginia Martin Bridges Thigpen, along with her 2 children, their spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Louis was preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his 9 children, Mary Ellen Lacobee Thigpen, daughter, Jessica Louise Thigpen Mullins, son, Edward Clozell Thigpen, grandson, Anthony Marcus Gourdon, and son-in-law “Bill” Joseph William Gourdon. Private services will be held to honor his life at a later time. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Scripture Writing Plan – “Who I am in Christ” – John 15: 1-5 and 15-16

Pray for the Hatchels as they make their way to Kentwood today. They will be the “best medicine” David has had in a long time. I will be thrilled to see them too. They will be driving in two vehicles because Boyd will pick up one they are renting before coming here. We would roll out the “red carpet” if we had some!

Many of you have prayed for them for years. We hope you will continue to do so.

Anna Lee

Thursday

You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’

But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.

~Revelation 3:17~

Wesley Blades stopped by yesterday to say his wife, Jane Blades, has been hospitalized because of the results of wearing a heart monitor. She is in Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center. An angiogram will be done this morning. Pray for Jane, her family, and the medical staff caring for her.

The Hatchels got phone service and a vehicle for Boyd yesterday. Most importantly, they got to spend time with Boyd’s family.

Please pray for Aaron Hatchel who is having back issues. Tests have been done. They will get results today. Be in prayer, please.

Please continue to pray for Brady Haynes as he deals with pain and nausea related to kidney stones and surgery.

Scripture Writing Plan – “Who I am in Christ” – John 1 : 12-13

Baptist Press – http://www.bpnews.net/

I haven’t been able to work on Operation Christmas Child as I usually do. I will need some of you to step up and help this year. Make some purchases. I think the best plan is to pict a couple of items and purchase multiples of that item. Need suggestions? Soap, washcloths, combs and brushes, toys, clothes pins, Play Dough, Lego blocks (large packs that can be divided), fishing needs, individual spoons, flash lights, batteries, flat glass marbles, colorful duct tape, sewing supplies, stick deodorant, small dolls, balls, etc. Get your family, class, co=workers, and school involved. Items can be dropped off at the office of FBC, Kentwood. Thanks! Remember, each shoebox we pact will impact an average of seven people with the knowledge of Jesus! What a great way for be a missionary!

We are not all alike, but each of us have unique ways to share Jesus. Share Jesus in your own style today.

Anna Lee

Wednesday

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up.

And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”

~Hebrews 12:1 NLT~

Please continue to pray for Deanna “Bug” Reynolds. Recovering from her tonsil surgery has not been as easy as she hoped. Your prayers will be appreciated.

Updates on Carol Bennett Sealey:

My mom was moved from ICU to a regular room tonight. Kidneys are wanting to work, the NG tube has been removed, and she’s not on O2 anymore. She was able to eat a very little bit today. Most importantly, Camille and Adalynn were able to see her in person for the first time since May 28. She’s come so incredibly far, and she still has so far to go, but she has fought and overcome so much. Thank you all for the prayers, visits, calls, and texts. Has meant the world! Austin
My brother in law texted me this morning said Carol had a good night. Have removed all oxygen. Going to take NG tube out and try letting her eat. Maybe moving her out of ICU to the floor. Going to put in some kinda of port for dialysis which she will have sometime today. Yes Carol you win the award for most determined fighter of anyone I know. Finally stopped with those baby steps and doing the long jump. Wow so hsappy to hear all your progress. Will see you soon!!

Barbara

Carl “Chicken” Gaines

Just want to send out a big thank you to all of those who have had Carl on your prayer list. He is making progress and doing so much better in just one week. He is busy with Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy. Also thank you to all of you who haved called, texted, and visited him. We have relayed every phone call and text. Also since he doesn’t FB we read him every comment. Gosh thank you big to everyone that has sent food, it has been so much appreciated and everything has been great. We are so blessed with the best friends and family and send a big hug and a big thank you to all!!!

Barbara

Steve Miller of Line Creek has eye surgery yesterday. Pray for Steve and Wendy as they keep the eyedrops schedule going as follow-up to the procedure.

Josiah Huckaby celebrated his the first anniversary of when he got out of the hospital to live with KK and Job. Keep this sweet family in your prayers.

Pray for Brady Haynes, a former youth minister at FBC, K, as he has surgery to have some big kidney stones removed today. Later, he will require surgery on the other kidney. Your prayers will be appreciated.

At 10:48 last night, Jennie let me know they made it to Dallas. I’m not sure what time it was this morning when they got to where they will be staying, but they are there. Sleep will be their priority this morning.

Rebecca Darlene McMorris Ballard

October 20, 1951 – June 17, 2019

Scripture Writing Plan – “Who I am in Christ” – James 4:7

Today’s quote – Short, but powerful – “Your impact is exponential!”

Make a big impact today!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

For where your treasure is,

there your heart will be also.

~Matthew 6:21~

Please pray for Lisa Taylor. She has had blood pressure and diabetes issues sincee having surgery. She is not getting her regular medications. Pray for her body to adjust to the medications and for physical therapy to help her get stronger.

Pray for Rev. Charles Dean’s wife, Vickey. She had back surgery and will need to be dependent on others for a while.

David‘s blood level was 8.4 yesterday. He got his Procrit shot and we came home. No blood needed! Pray he will be able to control his desire for fluids and crushed ice.

Pray for the Hatchels as they fly to Dallas today. It will be a long day. Please pray for them as God brings them you your mind today.

Scripture Writing Plan – “Who I am in Christ” – Hebrews 2:11 and 4:16

Yesterday was a little cooler. Let’s pray today is also cooler.

Anna Lee

Saturday

The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him.

~Proverbs 23:24 (NIV)~

Happy Father’s Day Weekend!

Update on Carol Bennett Sealey written by Austin, her son:

My mom has been having good days. Daddy said she was actually able to stand very briefly when the PT came in. She’s completely alert and responding to everything. She was able to FaceTime with Camille tonight for a little bit. It was good for them to get to talk. It’s been over two weeks. Things are looking great!

Pam Bankston has a long recovery ahead of her now that the neck and spine surgery has been done. Please keep Pam, and Sim, in your prayers.

Deanna “Bug” Reynolds continues her recovery at home. I think having a mom who is a nurse gives her an advantage over some others who have to recover from surgery to remove tonsils. Please continue to pray for “Bug”.

Scripture Writing Plan – “Who I am in Christ” – Ephesians 4: 4-7, 32

Kentwood area children and youth had lots of opportunities to participate in VBS and to attend church camps this week. I’m so thankful to live in an area where adults are so willing to give of themselves in order that children can learn about Jesus and how to live for Him.

I know some special people who will be leaving their home in a few days to travel to the States for the next six months. Pray for them as they complete preparations to travel, travel for hours and hours, and set up in a house that will be their home for the coming months.

Anna Lee

Tuesday

Not a single one of all the good promises the LORD had given to the family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything he had spoken came true.”

~Joshua 21:45 NLT~

Cheryl H. Green is now home after her heart surgery. Please continue to pray for her as she continues to heal at home.

Carol B. Sealey is still hospitalized in Mobile. She continues to slowly improve. Your prayer for her are appreciated. Barbara B. Gaines has been spending a lot of time with her sister, Carol. Saturday, Barbara’s husband, Carl “Chicken” Gaines had another stroke. He has already improved in movement and speech since then. He’s at home now. As you pray for Carol and “Chicken”, you’ll also want to pray for Barbara, who is a caregiver for both of them.

Buddy Morris is hospitalized at North Oaks with pneumonia. Please continue to pray for Buddy and his family.

Anna Sharkey had foot surgery at Children’s Hospital of New Orleans. Yesterday’s surgery went well. Anna stayed overnight at the hospital, but should be coming home today. Pray for a swift and complete surgery. Anna will also have surgery on the other foot when this one is healed.

David had his weekly appointment at Ochsner on O’Neal yesterday. After the hours and hours of extra time spent there the last few weeks, we were happily surprised to learn his blood level was 8.8. He got the Procrit injection, but didn’t need blood. We are so thankful. We were also extra thankful for my sister, Julie, who drove us from Ponchatoula to Baton Rouge and back to Ponchatoula. That left me much less driving to do, which was a good thing considering the lack of sleep at our house lately. David has medication to help him sleep, but it doesn’t work. Our prayer request of you today is to pray for better sleep for David which also means I would get to sleep better too. “Thankfulness” is our word for today!

Scripture Writing Plan – “Who I am in Christ”

June 10 – Colossians 1: 13-14, 22
June 11 – Colossians 2: 7-10, 3:3

We look forward to appointments with the home health nurse and the PT today. They have both been great help to David.

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“Everything you do or say, then, should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, as you give thanks through him to God the Father”

~Colossians 3:17 GNT~

Mr. John Phillips continues to be in rehab, which will be a long ordeal for him with both arms broken. Please continue to pray for him and for his family.

Carol B. Sealey Updates from her sister, Barbara Gaines

Update on this strong willed fighter. Carol is starting dialysis this morning for the next 4 hours. She opened her eyes for me this morning and blinked to let me know she understood me. Baby steps at this time, I will take any little improvement. Keep praying that we will continue to head in the right direction making these little baby steps.

Praise God Hallelujah prayers are working. Doctor was very upbeat and positive Dialysis is doing good. Going to start working on getting Vent off. Will continue dialysis waiting to see if we can get kidneys to working. Keep praying God is still performing a miracle in Carol!!!

Pray for Cheryl Hughes Green. She will have a heart cath tomorrow morning. The doctor suspects one or more blockages.

Larissa Sharkey Dean has a surgical procedure yesterday and did well. She will be back “on her feet” and going strong by the end of the week.

Micah Simpson is going through the process of joining the marines. Pray for him and his family.

Today, we will have a Tuesday morning drive in addition to the one yesterday. David will receive more blood today. Pray for the traveling and the infusion process.

Read and Write the Bible – “Who I Am in Christ” – I john 4: 4, 16

I don’t have any VBS reports, but know God was honored and children’s lives were touched by VBS, one of my favorite outreach activities.

Don’t forget your OCC purchases and projects. Without your help, ….

Anna Lee