Monday

Be very careful how you live.

Do not live like those who are not wise.

Live wisely.

I mean that you should use every chance you have for doing good, because these are evil times.

So do not be foolish with your lives.

But learn what the Lord wants you to do.”

~Ephesians 5:15-17 ICB~

Pray for Mrs. Mildred Birch as she has a back procedure at North Oaks this morning. Pray the surgery is successful in relieving her back pain.

Carol Bennett Sealey had another round of dialysis and a unit of blood. She tolerated these procedures and is back in ICU.

Pray for the family of Mr. Kent Davis who lived in our neighborhood. Pray for his wife as she makes decisions about her life without him.

Thankfulness

I’m thankful we were able to attend church yesterday and even to eat lunch with friends. Many friends made a special effort to speak with David. They will never know how much that means to us. We get to remember them in our conversations and prayers.

I’m so thankful for my sister, Julie, who has chosen to make many trips to the doctors with us. I’m also thankful for our son and his family who spent part of last week with us and for our Texas granddaughter who was also with us last week. Please pray for her as she begins a summer job as a medical assistant today. Our daughter-in-law and two Georgia grandchildren will spent this week at Centrifuge. I’m so thankful for these family members and the meaningful lives they have chosen to live.

Read and Write the Bible – “Who I Am in Christ” – I Corinthians 12: 27-31

Pray for all the students, teachers, and other workers as VBS begins this morning at FBC, Kentwood. Several other churches are also having VBS this week, mostly in the evenings. I know there will be a number of students who will get a “double dose” of VBS this week. I think that is good. We never heard of that when our children were of VBS age, but I see nothing wrong with getting the kids in church twice a day all week.

Operation Christmas Child item to purchase this month – TOYS! You can leave your purchases in the church office or in the classroom next to the choir room. Thanks!

God has given us this Monday! What will we give to Him though others this Monday?

Anna Lee

Friday

“I love the LORD because he hears my voice and my prayer for mercy.

Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath!”

~Psalm 116:1-2 NLT~

The Georgia company is driving home already. Pray for their tired minds and bodies. They were a tremendous help physically, mentally, and emotionally. Our granddaughter from Texas will fly home Sunday so we have two more days to enjoy her. She begins a summer job as a medical assistant in an allergy clinic Monday.

Read and write the Bible – “Abiding in Christ” – Acts 13: 26-27

We joined with others to pray for Jewel Kay Cutrer concerning her A-fib. When she got to the hospital for treatment, she no longer had A-fib. To God be the glory for helping her get relief from that problem.

Carol Bennett Sealey’s health problems have been critical, but the doctor found some positives yesterday. Keep praying. This is Barbara’s update from yesterday.

….update on Carol. They came in this morning when things were looking their worst with plans to stop meds which would have bottomed out Carol’s Blood Pressure. They did a Lactase test yesterday which came back high at 10 and Dr. said she would not make it through the night. They repeated the test this morning and it came down to a 3 which gave him a glimmer of hope that she may be turning the critical corner with the sepsis. Going to try some new meds ,work on blood pressure, give her a unit of blood and see if things make a full turn. Let’s keep the prayers coming for this to work and eventually get her off the vent. God is answering prayers for sure.

A reader named Gail sent a request for prayer for the salvation of four of her family members and for their release from serious issues that have controlled their lives. I know you will want to pray for Gail’s family.

I have a good report on David. He got better sleep last night than he has for a long time. We are thankful to have a new medication that helped him last night. Many people are helping us on this journey. Each one plays an important part. Today, our sweet PT is coming in less than an hour, so I will be brief with writing this morning

David and I continue to thank you for all the prayers and acts of kindness that have helped us.

Anna Lee

Thursday (Posted early)

But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children— with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts.

~Psalm 103:17-18 (NIV)~

Please continue to pray for Carol Bennett Sealey. She was released from the hospital Tuesday, but is back in the hospital shortly and has already had surgery. Her sister, Barbara Gaines, says Carol needs our prayers.

Jewel Y. Cutrer has had A-fib for a while. Nothing that has been tried to stop it has worked so far. Pray for the doctors to find the answer and to get Jewel Kay to feeling better real soon.

Mr. “Cete” Dillon has been getting blood and iron lately. He’s beginning to feel much better. Pray for his continued improvement.

David had good appointments yesterday. Jason and Becki were great help and good company. We met and really liked a new doctor. Three of the grandchildren are here and are enjoying being together. We’re looking forward to having the other three here next month.

Read and Write the Bible – “Abiding in Christ” – Deuteronomy 6: 5-6 A page for the June Bible readings is available at the church.

Don’t forget that VBS starts soon at FBC, Kentwood. Go by the office to get your shirt and to get registered.

So many people need your prayers. Pray for those listed here and for others you know who have needs.

Anna Lee

Wednesday

“May the God of peace . . .

equip you with all you need for doing his will.”

~Hebrews 13:20-21 TLB~

Please begin now to pray for Deanna Reynolds who will be having a tonsillectomy on 6/13.

Please pray for the Townsend family. Bro. Mike’s dad had some heart issues, but is home and doing better now.

Adrians Phillips did well with his procedure and is home already. Thank God for this good report.

Mr. John Phillips had a four-wheeler accident and broke both arms a couple weeks ago. We were told he is in rehab. The accident happened a couple weeks ago, but we missed hearing about him until yesterday.

Our family company all arrived safely yesterday. David has appointments in Baton Rouge today, the “Monday morning ride”, to meet with a new doctor, plus the regular ones. Jason and Becki will be going with us today.

Julie “JuJu” Venturella King

October 12, 1952 – May 24, 2019

Julie “JuJu” Venturella King passed away on Friday, May 24, 2019 at the age of 66. Julie was born on October 12, 1952 and was the oldest of six siblings. She was preceded in death by her parents, August Venturella, Jr. and Joann W. Venturella. Loving wife of the late Daryl Loverde by first marriage and of the late Barney “Andy” King by second marriage. Julie was the devoted mother of Brent Loverde (Beth), and the late Lisa Jobe (Jamie). Loving step-mother of Andrew King (Donna) and Heather Holden (Jode). Grandmother of Ellie Loverde, Brandon King, Brandee McLennan (JT), Jake King, and Grayson, Gabrielle, and Kayli Holden. Sister of the late Michael Venturella, Stephen Venturella (Doreene), the late August Venturella, III (Theresa), Renee Chrisman (Pete), and Joanne Venturella Morere. Proud Godmother of Bronson Nunez and Cade Morere. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, loving family members and dear friends. Julie will be forever remembered and deeply missed by her family, friends, St. Helena Parish Hospital family, and all those whose lives she touched. Relatives, friends and co-workers are invited to attend a memorial service in her honor to be held at McKneely Funeral Home in Amite on Saturday, June 1st. Visitation from 3pm – 6pm, with services starting at 6pm. She will be laid to rest in a private burial at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Tangi Humane Society in memory of Julie. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Read and Write the Bible – “Abiding in Christ” – Luke 18:14

“Here for You” – You’ll Miss the Bus – Matthew 5:3

https://hereforyou.org/videos/#merciful

Be careful in the heat! Don’t let it get the best of you. Do most of your outdoor chores early in the morning or late in the evening as much as possible.

Anna Lee

Tuesday

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

~Proverbs 22:6~

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

Here for You – “Peacemakers” – Matthew 5:9 – https://hereforyou.org/videos/#merciful

Read and Write the Bible – “Abiding in Christ” – Titus 3: 5-6

Don’t forget to pray for Adrian Phillips as he has surgery for two heart stents today at B.R. General.

Lynell Hyde White

August 08, 1949 – May 26, 2019

Lynell Hyde White, a resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Sunday, May 26, 2019 at her home in Kentwood, LA. She was born August 8, 1949 in Amite, LA and was 69 years of age. She was a Godly woman that loved the Lord. She is survived by husband of 50 years, Richard White; 3 daughters, Pam Williams and husband, Ricky, Missy White and Jessie White and fiancé, Curtis Jones; 8 grandchildren, Kayla Williams, Cole Williams, Kasey Williams, Krissy Williams, Bryan Menard, Harley Menard, Wyatt Travis and Grant White; 3 great-grandchildren, Heidi Menard, Cohen Williams and Ella Menard; mother, Lynell Vines; sister, Karen McDaniel and husband Richard; brother, Earl Hyde; aunt, Cleora Hayden. Preceded in death by father, Carl Hyde; stepfather, Odies H. Vines; aunt, Nettie Loving; grandparents, Bryce and Emma Hyde. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6:00 PM until 10:00Pm, Wednesday, May 29, 2019, and from 8:00 AM until religious services at 10:00 AM Thursday, May 30, 2019. Services conducted by Bro. Larry Blades. Interment Hyde Cemetery, Roseland, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Company coming from Georgia and Texas today! Do you see me smiling?

Anna Lee

Thursday

Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.

~Romans 15:2 (NIV)~

Today, I am asking for special prayer for an awesome young woman. She is the granddaughter of a high school classmate and has fought a courageous battle. Enjoy some time reading her Facebook page, Maddie’s Miracles, and praying for her.

Maddie’s Miracles Image may contain: 1 person, smiling, closeup

Carol Bennett Sealey’s surgery is completed. Let’s pray for her as she moves on to whatever is ahead of her.

Mr. “Cete” Dillon has has a number of appointments. He received a unit of blood this week. Pray he improves soon.

David got a good report from his cardiologist yesterday. We’re looking ahead to a full day of appointments next Wednesday.

Maxine Smith Ard

September 27, 1937 – May 20, 2019

Maxine Smith Ard passed away peacefully on Monday, May 20, 2019 of natural causes at the age of 81. She was born in the town of Foxworth in Marion County Mississippi on September 27, 1937 and her family moved to Louisiana after World War II while she was still a child. Maxine’s son William was born weeks before her seventeenth birthday as she was married for the first time when she was 15. She completed night school while working full time at a laundromat and part time at a restaurant. On August 9, 1963 Maxine married Lamon Ard and they moved to Montpelier in October of 1967 and they remained married for 49 years “until death they did part” in 2012. For several years Maxine and Lamon fostered boys for the Child Protection Services. Over the years Maxine worked as a bookkeeper, and for what was once the Terrebonne Lumber Company. She retired from Montpelier Gas and Water in 2010 where she managed the billing services. Maxine is preceded in death by her husband Eddie Lamon Ard, parents Melvin Smith and Annie Bedwell Smith, brother, Waymon Smith and nephews Jerry Lott and Bob Lott. She is survived by her son, William (Bill) Pittman and daughter-in-law Mary Agnes Pittman, grandson Jacob Stephen Pittman, granddaughter Katherine Elizabeth Pittman Poche’ and her husband LTJG Alan Poche’, and two great grandchildren, Madison Poche’ and Natalie Poche’. She is also survived by her sister Lillian Smith Nucico, sister-in-law Betty Smith, niece Patty Smith, nephew Chad Smith, her brother, Cercie Smith and his wife Katherine Smith and his children, David Smith, Michael Smith, Linda Smith, Roger Smith, and niece Patsy Lott Howansky. Visitation at Montpelier Baptist Church from 9:00 AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Saturday, May 25, 2019. Services conducted by Bro. Rusty Durand. Interment Montpelier Cemetery, Montpelier, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Read and Write the Bible Today – “Abiding in Christ” – Hebrews 3:4-6

Say or do something to help build someone up today!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

Where there is no wood, the fire goes out;

and where there is no talebearer, strife ceases.

~Proverbs 20:26 (NKJV)~

…the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.

How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!

~James 3:5~

Pray for Adrian Phillips. He has been scheduled for more heart procedures today. Let’s pray the doctors are able to achieve their goals.

David and I left before 6:30 yesterday morning and got home this morning at 3:30. We did not get to have all the scheduled appointments because the lab test showed a blood level of 6.7. David was sent to the ER for two units of blood. It was given slowly and took 15 hours. It’s good to be home. David’s appointment with the new doctor has been rescheduled for Wednesday.

David and I are in agreement that as long and hard as the day was for us, we were right were God wanted us to be and He was right there with us!

Xavier Chance Ory

May 8, 2019 – May 17, 2019

Xavier Chance Ory was born on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 and received his precious angel wings on Friday, May 17, 2019. Even though he was only held for a moment, he will be cherished for a lifetime. Xavier’s family will always remember the short time they had together, for now, he is their guardian angel.

He leaves behind his loving mom and dad, Blake and Lily Ory, maternal grandparents, Suzanne and Clifford Edwards; paternal grandparents, Ronda and Bo Douget, and Mark and Anna Peters; Aunts, Candace Day, Erin Burns, Lalia Edwards, and Felicia Sonnie; Uncles, Chris Edwards, Donnie Edwards, Michael Edwards, Dwight Douget, Ashton Douget, Will Douget, Colten Peters, and Ethan Peters; as well as numerous cousins.

Xavier is preceded in death by his uncle, Chandler Douget.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the visitation from the chapel of Brandon G. Thompson Funeral Home, Hammond, on Monday, May 20, 2019 from 9:00 a.m. until the Service at 1:00 p.m.

Condolences and other information can be found online at www.thompsoncares.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brandon G. Thompson Funeral Home.

Read and Write the Bible – “Abiding in Christ” – Job 22: 21-22

Anna Lee

Monday

“Look out for one another’s interests,

not just for your own”

~Philippians 2:4 GNT~

Please continue to pray for safety for everyone in our continuing weather storms. Be thankful and appreciative to those who help keep us stay safe and comfortable and to those who come help clean up, Louisiana Baptist Disaster Relief and others.

Sue Mason Hawkins

April 24, 1937 – May 18, 2019

A resident of Amite passed away on Saturday, May 18, 2019 at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born April 24, 1937 in Carthage, TX and was 82 years of age. She is survived by 6 children, Mark Hawkins and wife, Sandra, Susan Miller, Davey Hawkins and wife, Rashael, Elizabeth Hawkins, Stacey Slay and husband, Shane, and Tracey McKenna and husband, Duane; 12 grandchildren, Anthony Hawkins and wife, Katelynn, Jordan Hawkins, Sarah and Hannah Miller, Brittany Foley and husband, Michael, Nicholas and Lea Ann Hawkins, Dale and Vivian Slay, Mason, Mitchell, and Mattie McKenna; great-granddaughter, Ava Lynn Hawkins; brother, Robert Earl Mason. Preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Billy Frank Hawkins; grandson, Matthew Blake Hawkins; parents, James Robert Mason and Cecil Arnold Mason; brothers and sisters, Ouida Faye Morris, Ovie Nell O’Dell, and Bela Ray “Bud” Mason; infants sisters, Maxine Mason and Carlyn Ann Mason. Visitation at Kedron Baptist Church, Amite, from 10:00AM until religious services at 1:00PM on Monday, May 20, 2019. Services conducted by Rev. Byron Humphrey. Interment Killian Chapel Cemetery, Amite. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Reading and Write the Bible today – “Abiding in Christ” – James 4: 7-8

My personal request today is that David be able to sleep at night, not just during the day. Medication doesn’t seem to help. Please pray with me, Thanks!

Anna Lee

Wednesday

Yesterday, I expressed my uncertainty about some things in the future. I understand prayer and how God answers our prayers, but my question seemed to take God out of the plan. Someone who was here said I should pray about it. This seemed like an easy and obvious answer. This is the verse that showed up today. She surely was right!

“If you want to know what God wants you to do, ask him, and he will gladly tell you . . .

But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to tell you.”

~James 1:5-6 TLB~

Adrian Phillips‘ angiogram left some unanswered questions so more testing was scheduled for last night. This afternoon, the doctor will tell the results and his decision. Surgery may even happen. Pray for answers for the doctor so he will make the best decision. Pray for Adrian and his family as they face a day of medical uncertainty.

I learned yesterday that Mr. Ed and “Miss” Jeanette Maghee‘s house burned and they are building a smaller home in the back. Pray for this couple and their family as they make big decisions and changes to their “normal” life.

Eric Colton Soileau

May 22, 1995 – May 12, 2019

A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Sunday, May 12, 2019 in Kentwood, LA. He was born May 22, 1995 in Baton Rouge, LA and was 23 years of age. He was a 2013 Graduate of Sumner High School. He is survived by father, John Carl Soileau; mother, Abbigail Hendrickson Soileau; sister, Allison R. Soileau; grandmother, Elsie Mae Soileau. Preceded in death by grandparents, John Maynard Soileau, Nelwyn Mae Hendrickson and George Cecil Hendrickson, Jr. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 9:00 AM until religious services at 11:00 AM Thursday, May 16, 2019. Interment East Fork Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. In lieu of flowers send donations to Suicide Prevention Hotline. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Read and Write the Bible – “Abiding in Christ” – Colossians 3:17

The Prayer Link teaches me lessons all the time. I’m thankful that it does.

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“Trust God all the time.

Tell him all your problems, because God is our protection.”

~Psalm 62:8 NCV~

Susie Sharkey’s knee surgery went well yesterday. Now, on to rehab. Additional prayers will be appreciated.

Adrian Phillips‘ angiogram is this morning at Baton Rouge General. He is ready to do whatever it takes to feel better. Please pray for him.

I injured both of my knees yesterday. Previously, I injured both thumbs that are still bothering me. Pray they get better soon. I need to be healthy!

Read and Write the Bible – “Abiding in Love” – Galatians 2:15

Baptist Press – www.bpnews.com

Enjoy a beautiful day from the Lord today.

Anna Lee