Category: FBC

Thursday

“And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment.” (Philippians 1:9)

Mrs. Parmys Stegall is now in rehab in Covington. She is scheduled to come home by the end of the week. Mr. Bob’s eye surgery is still on hold. Please continue to pray for this couple.

Barbara Gaines of Roseland is having surgery. Pray for her during this time of hospitalization and recovery.

Mr. Orin Davidson is now in rehabilitation in Kentwood. Mrs. Sudie Phillips is in rehabilitation in Hammond.

Nedra Hurst Carter will soon be having surgery. Pray for her and her family during this time.

Mr. James Lee Hutchinson has improved while at North Oaks. He should be able to return home by the end of the week.

Pray for Debbie Miller as she sees her cardiologist again this morning. Debbie seems to be doing very well.

Continue to pray for David Lockwood and his family as they deal with his illness.

November 16th is the deadline for Operation Christmas Child (shoeboxes for needy children). How many will you and/or you class package for distribution? Contact the church office or me if you need more information.

Baptist Press
November 5, 2008

WASHINGTON–Obama gains historic win; conservatives wait. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29270

WASHINGTON–Obama administration could radically change landscape on social issues. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29277

CALIFORNIA–Calif. passes Prop 8, giving pro-family groups landmark win; Ariz. & Fla. adopt amendments. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29278

TENNESSEE–No victories on pro-life initiatives. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29271

ARKANSAS–Ark. passes ban on unmarried adoptions. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29279

WASHINGTON–Gambling foes win 3 of 6 state ballots. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29272

TENNESSEE–Marijuana made inroads in 2 states Nov. 4. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29273

ALABAMA–Democrat wins race between 2 deacons. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29274

WASHINGTON–FCC opens ‘white space’ despite protests. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29275

TENNESEE–FIRST-PERSON (Richard Land): An open letter to President-elect Barack Obama. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29276

THE LIVING DEAD

During an Army war game a commanding officer’s jeep got stuck in the mud. The C.O. saw some men lounging around nearby and asked them to help him get unstuck.

“Sorry sir,” said one of the loafers, “but we’ve been classified dead and the umpire said we couldn’t contribute in any way.”

The C.O. turned to his driver and said, “Go drag a couple of those dead bodies over here and throw them under the wheels to give us some traction.”

War games are not the only places that you can see a bunch of “dead” bodies walking around. In fact, we live in a world of the “living dead”. Paul wrote,

“And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world….” (Ephesians 2:1-2a)

Did you notice that? We were dead while we walked the way the world walks. This death was not a separation of the spirit from the body, but a separation from God.

Praise be to the One who has the power to bring the dead (both spiritual and physical) back to life!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

I hope your week is going well so far.
Anna Lee

Sunday

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying: Who should I send? Who will go for Us? I said: Here I am. Send me.” (Isaiah 6:8, HCSB)

These are the thoughts of those who worked in On Mission in Kentwood this week. The best count I can give is work was done in five locations involving at least at least thirteen people. Some of those people worked more than just on Saturday.

Mrs. Pat Gill is doing well following eye surgery and plans to be at church this morning. Thank God for her good progress.

Debbie Miller was able to help with On Mission is Kentwood yesterday. Thank God for that and for Debbie’s deep love for helping others.

Don’t forget the Georgia Barnette Offering for Louisiana Ministies and Operation Christmas Child (shoe boxes of gifts for needy children around the world).

Mr. K.K. Kennedy shared this:

DIRECTIONS TO OUR FATHER’S HOUSE.
Make a Right onto Believeth Blvd.

Keep straight and go through the Green Light, which is Jesus Christ.

There, you must turn onto the Bridge of Faith , which is over troubled water.

When you get off the bridge, make a Right turn and Keep Straight.

You are on the King’s Highway – Heaven-bound.

Keep going for three miles: One for the Father, One for the Son, and One for the Holy Ghost.

Then exit off onto Grace Blvd.

From there, make a Right turn on Gospel Lane

Keep Straight and then make another Right on Prayer Road

As you go on your way, Yield Not to the traffic on Temptation Ave.

Also, avoid SIN STREET because it is a DEAD END.

Pass up Envy Drive and Hate Avenue

Also, pass Hypocrisy Street, Gossiping Lane , and Backbiting Blvd.

However, you have to go down Long-suffering Lane , Persecution Blvd. And Trials and Tribulations Ave.

But that’s all right, because VICTORY Street is straight ahead!

AMEN!

Have a great Lord’s Day!
Anna Lee

Saturday

If you wait for perfect conditions,

you will never get anything done.

Ecclesiastes 11:4 (NLT)

Update from Frann Clark:

My cataract surgeries were scheduled for Oct. 16 & 30. They did the one on Oct. 16 & all went great. The following Tuesday (21) the clinic called my daughter & asked if we could be there the next afternoon to do the right eye. I went for the day after checkup yesterday & he said that it was fine. Some pressure involving the right eye so he gave me drops & said to come back in a week.

Please pray that the pressure problem will be solved.

Tuesday, I hope to go to Jennings to see Riley at the VA home. Please pray for safe travel. I am still not able to drive but maybe soon.

God Bless You
Frann

 

 

Today’s the day! On Mission in Kentwood will meet at FBC, Kentwood at 8:00 this morning to complete acts of ministry in Kentwood. If you want a real blessing, take part in this ministry.

U.S. Condemns Beating of China Pastor’s Sons
By Staff of Baptist Press
BEIJING (BP)–The United States has voiced grave concern over the brutal beating Oct. 16 of “Pastor Bike” Zhang Mingxuan’s two sons by public security officials in China.

State Department spokesman Robert Wood released a statement Oct. 23 that specifically highlighted the “continuing official harassment of Pastor Zhang, … including his arbitrary detention and the forced relocation of his family.” The State Department called on the Chinese government to release Zhang immediately, permit his family members to return home, condemn the violent acts committed against his sons and bring the individuals responsible for the persecution to justice.

The statement came the day after two congressmen, Frank R. Wolf, R.-Va., and Christopher Smith, R.-N.J., issued a joint letter to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, asking her to call for Zhang’s release and demand that the damages inflicted upon his family be rectified. Both congressmen met with Zhang and his wife in Beijing this past July and heard firsthand about the abuses Christians in China suffer at the hands of Public Security Bureau officials.

Pastor Zhang was traveling when his family was attacked and efforts to contact him had been unsuccessful. On Oct. 22, however, he called his eldest son to say he was being detained by public security officers but was not allowed to tell anyone where or in what conditions he was being held, according to a report from the human rights group China Aid Association (chinaaid.org). Zhang’s wife and sister also reportedly have been detained in a Beijing hotel.

In order to receive medical reimbursement for his injuries, PSB officials coerced Pastor Bike’s eldest son, Zhang Jian, to sign a statement that he received only minor injuries in the beating, China Aid reported. Hospital records, however, indicated he received severe injuries that required complicated surgery.

On Oct. 10, police sealed the door of the house church where Zhang Mingxuan preaches and blocked it with two truckloads of garbage, even though the government just weeks earlier had given the church permission to meet, China Aid reported. Pastor Bike has been arrested 26 times, beaten and evicted from his home numerous times because of his faith.

China Aid, on the web at http://www.chinaaid.org, said it is assisting Zhang Jian and his family with medical expenses, legal help and other needs and urged concerned citizens to contact the Chinese Embassy by writing to 2201 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20007 or by calling 202-338-6688.

Compiled by Baptist Press assistant editor Mark Kelly.

If you are a collector of “stuff” (old stuff, new stuff, cheap stuff, inexpensive stuff), this devotional will make you think. (David and I are guilty of collecting the old, inexpensive “stuff”!)

TREASURE OR TRASH?

Years ago, there was a woman who went browsing through an antique store. While she was there, she found a piano that she fell in love with. It was a magnificent old mahogany upright with beautiful carvings across the front. Inside the top was a beautiful hand detailed painting along the back along with the serial number and name of the original maker. It had been made in 1901. It had a warm full tone and so she thought all it needed was to be tuned.

So she bought the piano, brought it home and called a piano restoration specialist to come out to tune it. But it didn’t take him long to determine that the pinblock had been “doped.” He explained to the woman that old pianos “die” when the pinblock dries out because the pinblock can’t keep the pins tight when they’re tuned. When this happens, if someone wants to sell a piano in this condition, they will sometimes dope it, which means they lay the piano on its back and pour a mixture of anti-freeze and water around the pins to swell the pinblock. Sometimes, it will add some life to an aging piano; in this case, it ruined it.

The woman was so disappointed and so angry that she put the piano outside her home and made a sign for it that said “Free: 500 pounds of firewood”. What she thought was a treasure had turned to trash.

Have you ever had something like that happen to you? You find something that you love, something you think is going your life so much better, but shortly after you get it, it’s destined for the trash pile. How many of you have corners in your garages and basements and attics where you keep all those so-called treasures? Yard sale lawn mowers that can’t cut a lick of grass, one of those slicer-dicers you thought your kitchen just couldn’t do without, maybe even your collection of 8-track tapes – now there’s a treasure!

We pursue many things in life hoping to gain a wonderful treasure. We spend our lives in the pursuit of “things.” But there are moments when we’re forced to stop and ask ourselves, “Is what I have really such a treasure, or is it nothing but trash?” The apostle Paul was a man who once faced this difficult question. Here’s the conclusion he came to:

“But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ.” (Philippians 3:7-8)

Paul says, “At one time, I had it all. But the things that I used to think were important, I have weighed them, I have evaluated them, and I have come to the conclusion that they are absolute garbage compared to what I have in Jesus Christ.”

What were those “things”? In the first few verses of Philippians 3, Paul sets forth his credentials as a Jewish leader. Paul says, “If you were to look at me, you would assume, ‘Here is a man who has it all. He has prestige, he has honor, he has power. He has everything that a man could possibly want.'”

But, again, “What things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ.” Everything he had as a Jew that he considered to be important, he re-evaluated and came to the conclusion that it really wasn’t all that important. “Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ.” (3:8).

Now I understand that generally the things that are important to us are not the same things that were important to Paul, but they are “things” nonetheless. Maybe we enjoy living in our dream house. Maybe new clothes or jewelry excites us, maybe a new computer, maybe a new car. Maybe making it big in sports is our pride, maybe being popular and well-liked. Maybe those awards we’ve hung on our walls. But when you take all these things and you compare them to our blessings in Jesus Christ, they’re a pile of garbage, and we need to understand that.

Take a look around you. What do you see — treasure or trash?

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Trusting you have “the real treasure” in your live,

Anna Lee

Friday

“Bear one another’s burdens,

and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

~Galatians 6:2~

Please keep Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Harrell in your prayers. They both continue to have health issues.

Please continue to pray for the many people who have health issues.

It a fall Friday night, so pray for everyone involved in high school football events in our area. Many people participate in one way or another. Many miles are traveled to and from games. Pray for safety of all tonight. Pray Christians will be a strong witness at football games and other athletic events. You never know when or who you might influence someone.

Plan to participate in On Mission in Kentwood tomorrow morning. You can make a difference right here in Kentwood! Meet at FBC at 8 A.M. If you cannot attend, please pray for those who will be working.

Kidnappers Demand Ransom
for California Pastor
By Mickey Noah


TIJUANA, Mexico (BP)–Kidnappers are demanding $1 million for the safe return of Manuel Jesus Tec, a Southern Baptist pastor in San Diego who was kidnapped in Tijuana, Mexico, around 5 a.m. Oct. 21.

Tec, who lives in Tijuana, was driving across the border with his wife and one of his sons when gunmen stopped his car and forcibly abducted him. His wife and son were unhurt.

The pastor’s older son, Johnny Tec, who also is a pastor, said his father’s kidnappers have called the family three times, demanding a $1 million ransom, according to Richard F. Vera, multi-ethnic evangelism specialist for the California Southern Baptist Convention and a colleague of Manuel Tec.

“Johnny stated the last time the kidnappers called, they were very menacing and threatened to take Manuel’s life unless the family responded right away,” Vera said. “The family is projecting a strength and a trust in Christ that is admirable. They believe they will see Pastor Manuel Tec again.”

Tec is pastor of a new church plant in San Diego, Iglesia Familiar Amor y Vida, according to Hugo Campos, Hispanic ministries director for the San Diego Baptist Association and the Vision San Diego outreach in conjunction with the Strategic Focus Cities initiative of the North American Mission Board, the California convention, the San Diego association and local SBC churches.

Campos, who spoke to the Tec family on Wednesday, said the family now believes the kidnapping is a case of mistaken identity and that the pastor — thought to be around 60 — will be released once the kidnappers realize that.

“There’s a lot of praying going on all over the place,” Campos said.

(Mickey Noah is a writer for the North American Mission Board.)


KOMpray

Kids on Mission Pray

 

“Let the little children come to Me,

and don’t stop them,

because the kingdom of God belongs to such as these,”

Luke 18:16b

HANDING OUT TRACTS

A 9-year-old missionary kid (MK) set up a “store” outside the elevators of her apartment building. She wanted to catch neighbors when they came home from work. She wanted them to buy some of her beads and craft projects. She didn’t want to miss any opportunity. So she put gospel tracts on the table too. She confessed later to her parents that she had some help with the tracts.

Some of her Hindu friends grabbed the tracts and handed them out. A couple of the boys even went outside on their bicycles. They gave away the tracts in the apartment parking lot. God wants everyone to know Him. He will use a little girl to tell others about His love at her store. Or He will get non-Christians to give away the story of Jesus in a little book.

How do you tell others about Jesus? Please thank God for this young girl’s faith and desire to share the gospel with the lost. Pray that she will get to lead her young friends to receive Jesus as Savior. Ask God to honor her efforts with a harvest in their apartment complex.


MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS

Please pray for the people in Mozambique to be healthy and help the people to be strong. Pray that they will have Lots of water. Make them like the food that they eat in their Life. The kids have a good time at school. Help my pets be healthy. The End. ABIGAIL, age 6, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Pray for my neighbors to be become Christians and my piano teacher to become a Christian. EMILY, age 11 (Central Asia)

Dear God, thank you for our friends and our family. Please help us to make more Christians in our country. Thank you for the food and thank you for our teachers. I hope we can get along with friends. Amen. GM, age 8 (East Asia)

We live in a huge city, full of crime. Please pray for our safety as we travel different places around the city for work and school. Pray for my dad’s ministry in the township of Soweto. Many people are in cults and many worship their ancestors. There are 4 million people in Soweto and many areas do not have any evangelical churches! Pray that God will open their hearts to the gospel so that they can know Jesus as Savior, Lord and Friend! JOSHUWA, age 5, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Some of my national friends’ parents push them too much on good grades. Some ids in my class at my school are on probation (like when your mom and dad put you on restriction or tell you can’t go to a friend’s house). As my brother gets older, I hope he picks good friends and not bad stuff. Please pray for my friends and my brother. BELLE, age 9 (South Asia)

A week ago I was discussing with my friends if Jesus was the father’s son or not. I talked to them for a while and gave them a French copy of the Word to look at, then my dad came in and told them to ask their parents if it was OK if they watched the film. So the next day our friends watched the Jesus film. I would like you to pray for my friends. Well I will talk to you later. Your friend, NOAH, age 12 (West Africa)

6th grade at Faith Academy is a big change. Pray that I will be comforted in problems and that I will make the right choices. JOY, age 11 (Pacific Rim)

Please pray that the boys and girls get more toys. Pray they get more food because they are very poor. Please pray for the people to have better houses. CALEB, age 6 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

I need to improve my memory. I would like you to pray for I need a confidence boost. Pray for my family too. THOMAS, age 12 (South Asia)


THE MIND OF CHRIST

 

I heard once about a man who went to the doctor after weeks of symptoms. The doctor examined him carefully, then called the patient’s wife privately into his office. He said to her, “Your husband is suffering from a rare form of anemia. Without treatment, he’ll be dead in a few weeks. The good news is, it can be treated with proper nutrition.”

“You will need to get up early every morning and fix your husband a hot breakfast-pancakes, bacon and eggs, the works. He’ll need a home-cooked lunch every day, and then an old-fashioned meat-and-potato dinner every evening. It would be especially helpful if you could bake frequently. Cakes, pies, homemade bread-these are the things that will allow your husband to live.

“One more thing. His immune system is weak, so it’s important that your home be kept spotless at all times. I can’t impress upon you just how important this is. If you don’t do these things, your husband is going to die. Do you have any questions?” The wife said, “No.”

The doctor said, “Do you want to break the news to him, or shall I?” The wife said, “I’ll do it.”

She walked back into the examination room. Her husband, sensing the seriousness of his illness, said to her, “It’s bad, isn’t it?” She nodded, tears welled up in her eyes. He asked her, “What’s going to happen to me?”

And, with a sob, his wife blurted out, “The doctor says you’re gonna die!”

While I would like to think that those of us who are husbands and wives would be willing to serve our mates in a situation like that, the truth of the matter is that we don’t really get too excited about the opportunity to serve someone else.

Paul says in Philippians 2:5 to, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus”. And the “mind” or “attitude that Paul tells the Philippian Christians to take on is the attitude of selflessness, humility, service. “Let nothing be done through selfish ambi¬tion or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4). The attitude a Christian should have is one that focuses on the needs and interests of others.

That’s not something that comes naturally. When Christ came into this world, he brought into being a whole new approach to relationships with people. Listen to what he said to his disciples one day when they were arguing among themselves regarding who was to be greatest in his kingdom:

“You now that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave — just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:25-28).

Jesus says that in the Gentile world, in the world around us, there’s very little humility. People operate basically out of selfish motives. They have little or no interest in helping others to reach their goals — except when it might benefit themselves. The name of the game is to get power and authority and then to exercise that power and authority.

But that’s not how Christians are supposed to act. And Christ did more than just teach us that truth. He lived it out as well. He demands nothing of us that he wasn’t willing to demonstrate himself.

“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.”

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Have a fantastic Friday!

Anna Lee

Thursday

“But as for me, my prayer is to You,

O Lord,in the acceptable time;

O God, in the multitude of Your mercy,

hear me in the truth of Your salvation.”

~Psalm 69:13~

 

Mrs. Della McDaniel and Mrs. Parmys Stegall have both fallen. “Miss” Parmys has had surgery and is in St. Tammany Hospital. “Miss” Della did not require surgery and is with Connie. Also, Mr. Bob Stegall is scheduled for eye surgery Monday. Please be in prayer for these special people.

Mrs. Blanch Wheat has been moved to a nursing home in Baton Rouge. Please pray for her as she makes this adjustment.

Mrs. Annie Bell Harrell has had another brief stay at the hospital. Please continue to pray for Mr. Phillip and “Miss” Annie Bell as well as their family and medical teams.

Kathy McDaniel Dyer

Kathy has been diagnosed with colon cancer and will begin treatment soon. Please continue to keep Kathy and her family in your prayers.

Linda Williams

Please update about our revival at Greenlaw Baptist Church. Dr. Victor Walsh will lead us in our revival services, Sunday at 11:00 AM, no Sunday night services. We will have dinner on the ground after the Sunday morning services. Then services again Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday night at 7:00 P.M.
Thank you,
Mary Ann Cutrer

On Mission in Kentwood will begin at 8:00 A.M. Saturday morning at FBC, Kentwood. Come out and join us as we “give back”. You’ll be blessed.

Operation Chirstmas Child is underway at FBC, Kentwood. This is coordinated by Samaritan’s Purse (Franklin Graham). You may contact the church office for information on how to prepare your box. Filled shoeboxes are to be brought to the church by November 16. What an opportunity to mininster to children around the world!

AWANA will have a Bible Character and trunk-or-treat night Sunday. For more information call the church office.

The Georgia Barnett State Missions Offering goal of $7,500.00 stands at about 65%. It’s time to push it past the goal!

Marie Louise Babin Ardillo
Mrs. Marie Louise Babin Ardillo was born on June 24, 1917, and passed away at 11 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, 2008, at the D’Ville House Nursing Home, Donaldsonville. She was 91, a native of Morganza, a resident Donaldsonville and a former resident of Amite. She was the daughter of the late Marcel and Florence LeBlanc Babin. Mrs. Marie is survived by a niece, Patsy Babin O’Neal and her children, Scott Jarreau and Monique Renee Jerald, and husband Kendall, and their children, Jordan Guarisco, Patrick, Kellie and Kevin Jerald; another niece, JoAnn Cavaretta Booty and husband, Lindsey; and cousins, Doris LeBlanc Landry, Bernie LeBlanc and Thomas LeBlanc. Also preceded in death by her husband, Gandolfo N. Ardillo; brother, Arthur Babin; and sister, Ora Babin LeBlanc. Her body was donated to science at her request.

Martha Ann “Maw Maw Ann” Swinney
(February 11, 1931 – October 22, 2008)

Martha Ann “Maw Maw Ann” Swinney, a loving mother, grandmother, and friend to many people was born February 11, 1931 and passed away at 1:37AM, Wednesday, October 22, 2008 at the Lakeview Regional Center, Covington. She was 77, a native of Bonham, TX and a resident of Amite for 30+ years. Maw Maw Ann was the daughter of the late Irvin and Daisy Taylor Smith.

She is survived by 2 daughters, Elaine Liuzza, Amite & Kriss Ryals and husband, Terry, Amite; 5 grandchildren, Christopher Liuzza and wife, Connie Rene’, David Liuzza and wife, Stacy, Mellissa Liuzza, Cathy McCallister and husband, Roland, Stacy Herron and husband Randy; 8 great-grandchildren, Lindsey Bennett, Steven Liuzza, Carolyn McCallister, Connor Herron, Keira Herron, Jake McCallister, Cristian Hernandez & Brecca Liuzza; and lifelong friends, Nada Butler & Linda Husser.

Also preceded in death by her husband, F T Swinney.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Friday, October 24, 2008 from 9:00AM until Religious Services at the Funeral Home Chapel at 11:00AM with Deacon Mike Agnello officiating. Interment in the Amite Memorial Gardens.

An-on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W next to Coggins-Gentry Ford.

 

 

Chinese Pastor’s Son Regains Consciousness
By Staff of Baptist Press


BEIJING (BP)–The oldest son of a prominent Chinese house church leader has regained consciousness and has spoken about his severe beating at the hands of government officials, saying he wanted to die if his story would cause people to grasp how shameless the persecution of Christians in China has become.

Zhang Jian, the son of “Pastor Bike” Zhang Mingxuan, chairman of the Federation House Church movement, was beaten by officers of China’s Public Security Bureau Oct. 16. The next day, he was able to speak with staff from China Aid Association, a human rights organization based in the United States.

China Aid reported that Zhang Jian’s right eye is severely wounded and doctors are unsure whether he will regain sight. His nose bone and eye bone are broken, and doctors have recommended further CAT scans and surgery. Despite his serious condition, the pastor’s son left the hospital because PSB officials were watching him there and he feared for his safety, China Aid said.

“I could not believe human beings could be so evil,” Zhang Jian told China Aid by phone. “Where is law, where is justice? I was crying out to the Lord. I felt I was dying and told the Lord, ‘Lord, please take my life as a martyr.

“‘Maybe this is the only way to awaken the conscience of the world and for the Chinese to open their eyes to see clearly that this is the religious freedom in China,'” Zhang Jian added. “‘I would like to die if my life could be used as a wakeup call and could help Chinese brothers and sisters further more freedom to worship the Lord freely — to demonstrate the darkness here in China.'”

Zhang Jian explained that his mother called him around noon the day of the beating and asked him to come to her apartment because plainclothes officers “along with hired thugs” had broken in and were throwing her belongings onto the street.

“When I got there, I saw my mom lying on the ground, being knocked down by these thugs who were led by a man who claimed to be the cousin of the property owner with whom my parents had signed two-year rental contract less than a month ago,” Zhang Jian told China Aid. “My younger brother Zhang Chuang was badly beaten up already with his mouth swollen bleeding.

“I asked, ‘How can you guys throw other people’s private items on the street?’ I tried to use my body to protect my mom from being hurt by them. Then this group of 15 officers and thugs immediately surrounded me and started beating my head and body with iron bars and said, ‘You are the one. We need to teach you a lesson as troublemaker.’

“I was very angry and upset in the beginning,” Zhang Jian said. “How could this happen in the daytime? My parents do not deserve to be treated like this just simply being preachers of the Gospel. My blood ran over from upstairs to the downstairs until I lost consciousness.”

Zhang Mingxuan, the pastor, was traveling in Yunnan province at the time and was unable to be contacted. Once Zhang Jian lost consciousness, his younger brother called 110, the Chinese equivalent to 911, but police did not arrive for more than an hour, Zhang Chuang told China Aid. Chinese law requires the police to arrive within 10 minutes of a call, and the PSB office is in close proximity to the Zhang residence.

“Ironically, seeing the police arrive, one of the guys who beat up my brother pretended to fall down, claiming he was beaten up by my brother Zhang Jian,” Zhang Chuang said. “Then the police even called in the ambulance to help that guy who was not hurt or wounded at all. But the ambulance refused to come to rescue my brother whose clothes were soaked with his blood all over after our repeated plea to 110. How could he or how dare he fight back when surrounded by 15 strong guys with iron bars? It’s very evil and is a joke to claim he could beat others at that time.”

Zhang Jian told China Aid that the doctors wanted him to have surgery to correct some of his wounds, but his family did not have the appropriate funds.

“I want to see some justice to be done and I want my father to be back home,” he said. “Where can we find a place to stay? No one in Beijing is able to host us. Pray for us, especially for my mom. She is exhausted.”

Chinese officials also have attempted to shut down the house church where Zhang Mingxuan preaches. On Oct. 10, police sealed the door of the church and blocked it with two truckloads of garbage. Officials were not letting anyone enter the church and had cut off electricity, even though the government just weeks earlier had given the church permission to meet, China Aid said.

“The physical assault on Zhang Jian is the most serious of the recent attacks on Zhang Jian and his family. During the past 22 years, Zhang Jian’s father, Pastor Bike, has been arrested 26 times, beaten and evicted from his home numerous times because of his faith,” the human rights group said. “Despite the persecution, this family continues to boldly preach and help the house church Christians.”

China Aid is assisting Zhang Jian and his family with medical expenses, legal help and other needs, the association said, and concerned citizens are urged to contact the Chinese Embassy by writing to 2201 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20007 or by calling 202-338-6688.

Compiled by Baptist Press staff writer Erin Roach.

Be thoughtful and prayerful of these needs this Thursday.

Anna Lee

Wednesday

When will you ever learn

that “believing” is useless

without doing what God wants you to?

Faith that does not result in good deeds

is not real faith.

James 2:20 (LB)

Debbie Miller’s doctor is treating her recent heart problem with medication. Pray for this to effective so Debbie can return to her normal life.

From Dianne Williams: Polly Bridges’ Mom

Polly called last night. Her mom has been moved from rehab back to North Oaks. She has an infection. They have been working with her with breathing problems in addition to other health concerns before this. Polly and her family need our prayers.

 

Thelma Jean Dees Watson
(August 30, 1922 – October 21, 2008)

Died at 7:40 a.m. on Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at Gulf States LTAC of Hammond. She was a native of Springfield, MA and a resident of Amite. Age 86 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Wednesday and from 9 a.m. until religious services at 1 p.m. Thursday. Services conducted by Elder Marshall Wallace. Interment Amite Cemetery, Amite. She is survived by her son, Shot Watson and his wife, Viola, Arcola, grandson, Aubrey “Catt” Watson, Arcola, 2 step-grandchildren, Kimberly and James Hatfield, Arcola, brother, Earl Dees and his wife, Marilyn, Fluker, sister, Dell Frickey and her husband, Joe, Des Allemands, and her caregiver for the past 3 years, Sherry Wallace, Arcola. She was preceded in death by her husband, Walt D. “Hamp” Watson, granddaughter, Belinda Lee Watson, brother, Lee Dees, and parents, Lloyd Jerome Dees and Thelma Kemp Dees.

Shirley Brown Winborn
(January 16, 1935 – October 21, 2008)

Died at 10:52 a.m. on Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite. She was a native and a resident of Amite. Age 73 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Wednesday and at Wilmer Baptist Church on Thursday from 8 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Services conducted by Rev. Jason Skipper, Rev. Jerry Blackwell and Rev. Glyn Irwin. Interment Wilmer Cemetery, Wilmer, LA. She is survived by her husband, Troy Lane Winborn, Amite; 3 daughters, Becky Winborn Mayeux, Tickfaw, Mary Ann Winborn Cutrer, Amite and Jenny Sue Winborn Weedman, Independence; 1 son, Alan Lane Winborn, Amite; 1 sister, Mary Belle Brown Little, Roseland; 1 brother, Abner Thomas Brown, Jr., Kentwood; 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Katherine “Kitty” Elouise Winborn Scott; father, Abner Thomas Brown, Sr.; mother, Esther Mae Golmon Brown; 2 brothers, Doyle Brown and Roger Donald Brown, Sr.

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Wednesday, October 22, 2008

“Here am I; send me” (Isaiah 6:8b, KJV).

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, asking you to pray for those seeking missionary appointment.

I could hear footsteps in the distance and someone explaining the Prayer Room down the hall. I laughed when they said, “This room is open to you any time-just turn off your cell phone and go in to pray.” While traveling recently, I couldn’t help but notice how cell phones have taken over airports; but I was thankful this person reminded their group to leave the “busyness” behind and step into the quiet of the Prayer Room for time with the Lord.

The small group began to move and I realized these were new missionary candidates. As they got to our Prayer Office, several faces peeked in the door and smiled; but they quickly continued, not wanting to lose that particularly essential person guiding them through this large, intricate office building.

The candidates are here for a few days of interviews and exploring their call to missions. During this week, they will meet with regional representatives who can share more about their potential place of service and the work they would do, with medical personnel who will poke and prod to make sure everyone is healthy enough to serve in distant lands, and with staff members who will assist them think this decision through and affirm God’s call on their lives.

Candidate Conference is a fun experience with new friends and future colleagues but is also a sober time to examine your heart and listen intently to the Lord. The candidates have stepped away from their familiar surroundings and support groups to offer themselves for overseas service.

* Please pray for missionary candidates as they seek the Lord’s will for their future service.

* Intercede for staff members who will counsel them throughout this week.

* Thank the Lord for calling out laborers and for those whose lives will be transformed when these new missionaries go to the field, boldly sharing God’s love.

WEDNESDAY WINDOW ON THE WORLD

October 22, 2008

RURAL HAITIANS OF HAITI (HAY-shuns). Missionaries Sam and Delores York write: “Several times we have asked for prayer for the faithfulness of the Haitian story leaders in the Central Plateau during our absence on stateside assignment. We met with the leaders in July and tell you with great joy that they have remained faithful! On a Monday, we were cleaning house and were amazed to see 15 story leaders walking up the road for their regular Monday afternoon meeting. They had been regularly meeting for Bible study and to encourage each other every Monday during our absence. As they read from their roll book, where they kept account of who was in attendance and how many participants each had in his Bible study or church that week in each location, tears of joy ran down our cheeks to know of their faithfulness. We praise God that they have remained steadfast, and we praise God that you have been faithful to pray for these lay leaders. We couldn’t have been happier to hear how they are supportive of the new work we are beginning in the Dominican Republic with Haitians! Pray that these young leaders will not be gullible and be taken over by ‘wolves.’ Pray for spiritual discernment.”

UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AND YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OF ROME, ITALY. Please pray for M, as he has been open and is seeking truth. He has had some conversations with different members of the University/Young Professionals Team about who God is and what it means to be a Christian. He has studied many different religions, and still hasn’t found what he wants to believe in. Pray that God will open his eyes to Himself. http://www.intercambioitaly.org/

BIHARI MUSLIMS OF BANGLADESH (bee-HAR-ree). A choir of four beggars can be heard on Friday mornings in an affluent neighborhood in Dhaka. Chanting religious songs, the men move through the streets on their heavily bandaged hands or all fours. Leprosy (Hansen’s disease) is still a major public health problem in areas of Bangladesh. In 2005, The Leprosy Mission (TLM) workers found 4,898 new cases of leprosy in the country. Urban slums, including the Bihari camps in Dhaka, are pockets of resistance in the fight to eradicate leprosy. Though far less infectious than earlier assumed, leprosy remains highly stigmatized and most often leads to ostracism, divorce, loss of jobs, or a ban from attending school. Please pray for TLM teams and government hospitals to detect and treat leprosy early before disability occurs. Pray for leprosy patients and their families in Bihari camps. Pray that they will know God’s touch and have an opportunity to receive His love. BihariBride@pobox.com; http://www.biharimuslims.com/

Begin to make plans to participate in On Mission in Kentwood Saturday. Please contact me or the church if you have any questions, want to volunteer, or know of a project that is needed.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

You need to persevere

so that when you have done the will of God,

you will receive what he has promised.

For in just a very little while,

“He who is coming will come

and will not delay.”

Hebrews 10:36-37 (NIV)

 

 

 

Things to pray for today:

  • Those who need Jesus
  • Homebound
  • Residents of nursing homes
  • Those in hospitals or undergoing tests
  • Those who are suffering in any way
  • Prisoners
  • Missionaries – both long term and short term
  • Church staffs and volunteers
  • Teachers
  • Students
  • Our political and military leaders
  • Men and women of the armed forces
  • The election process
  • Political candidates
  • Individual voters



You can add specific names in these categories or pray for the groups as a whole.

Baptist Press

October 20, 2008

GEORGIA–SBC president urges prayer for awakening. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29159

TEXAS–Ed Young Jr.: Scripture is best voter guide. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29160

TENNESSEE–SBC leaders add praises, boost call for emails to honor Graham’s 90th. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29161

TENNESSEE–‘Fireproof’ passes $20M at box office. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29162

TENNESSEE–Urban Bible study aims for relevancy. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29163

NORTH CAROLINA–Southeastern enhances A.Div. program. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29164

TEXAS–FIRST-PERSON (Tamara Quintana): Winterize your walk. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29165

Ralph Owen “Man” Anthony
(February 16, 1965 – October 18, 2008)

Ralph Owen “Man” Anthony, was born on February 16, 1965 and passed away at 7:30AM, Saturday, October 18, 2008 at his residence. He was 43 a native of Independence and a resident of Greensburg. He was the son of Barbara Baham Anthony of Amite and the late M C “Bull” Anthony.

Ralph is survived by his mother, Barbara Baham Anthony, Amite; 3 brothers, Wilford Anthony and wife, Flo, Greensburg, Calvin Anthony and wife, Joyce, Loranger, & Tommy Anthony, Baptist; a sister, Lisa Anthony Treadway and husband, Matthew, Holden; devoted friends, John & Christine Brumfield & family; also numerous nieces, nephews, cousins & extended family.

Also preceded in death by 3 brothers, Donnie, David, & Pete Anthony; 2 sisters, Ophelia Elaine Baham & Rose Marie “Lady Bug” Anthony; a nephew, Thomas Troy “Tom Tom” Baham

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Wednesday, October 22, 2008 from 9:00AM until Religious Services at 11:00AM at the Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Bobby Carroll officiating. Interment in the Briar Path Cemetery, Loranger.

An on-line Guestbook is a available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy. 16W next to Coggins-Gentry Ford.

The Sunday school lesson Sunday was from I Samuel and centered on the friendship between Jonathan and David. It was a good reminder to us of the importance of Christian friendships. It also reminded us to stay faithful to our friends and be an encourager to them. Friendships are certainly worth the time and effort you put into them. I’m very thankful for my many friends. Each one is special to me. What about you?

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Anna Lee

Sunday

“Likewise the Spirit

also helps in our weaknesses.

For we do not know

what we should pray for as we ought,

but the Spirit Himself makes intercession

for us with groanings

which cannot be uttered.”

~Romans 8:26~

Pray for Holly Kliesch as she travels to Richmond tomorrow for eight weeks of training before going to West Africa to be a teacher for MK’s.

Answered Prayers!!!

Mr. Phillip Harrell and Debbie Miller were both hospitalized last Sunday, but are home and planning to attend church services today.

Susan Marie Roussell McLin
(February 12, 1965 – October 18, 2008)

Susan Marie Roussell McLin was born on February 12, 1965 and passed away at 8:10PM, Saturday, October 18, 2008 at her residence. She was 43, a native of Chalmette and a resident of Tickfaw. She is the dauaghter of Gloria Hardy Roussell of Tickfaw and the late Sidney Joseph Roussell, Sr.

Susan is survived by her husband of 20 years, Charles E. McLin, Jr., Tickfaw; a son, Charles E. “Chas” McLin, III, Tickfaw; her mother, Gloria Hardy Roussell, Tickfaw; 2 borthers, Sidney Joseph Roussell, Jr. Pensacola, FL & Richard Eugene Roussell, Slidell; father-in-law & mother-in-law, Charles E, & Donna M. McLin, Sr., Ponchatoula.

Also preceded in death by a sister, Bettie Ann Roussell Keys Boisdore.

Visitation wil be held on Tuesday, October 21, 20008 at the Arcola Bapatist Church, Arcola, from 10:00AM until Religious Services at 3:00PM at the Church with Rev. Bob Simpson officiating. Interment in the Arcola Baptist Church Cemetery.

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is in charge of arrangements.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

James L. Akins
(February 16, 1940 – October 17, 2008)

James L. Akins, a master craftsman, was born on February 16, 1940 and passed away at 12:30AM, Friday, October 17, 2008 at Cannon Hospice, Elmwood Campus in New Orleans. Mr. James was 68, a native of Winnsboro, SC and a resident of Greensburg for 14 years. He was the son of the late Jimmie & Lillie Woods Akins.

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Helen N. Akins, Greensburg; a loving daughter, Shelia Prescott, McComb, MS; a loving son, Wayne Akins, Greensburg; a daughter, Capri Lewis, Ridgeway, SC; 4 sisters, Colleen Carter, Jesup, GA, Cassie Lee Rumore, Tampa, FL, Mary Akins, Winnsboro, SC & Laura Mae LeGrand, Winnsboro, SC; a brother, Marshall Akins, Hopewell, VA; 7 Grandchildren, Mark Prescott, Jr., Kristen Akins, Johnathan Fergerson, Crystal Veld, Crystal Akins, Frannie Akins, & Cameron Akins; his mother-in-law, Mrs. Leonise Leonard, Marrero, LA; an aunt, Mrs. Doreas Floyd, Winnsboro, SC; numerous nieces, nephews & friends; and his beloved dog, Rex Ochoa Akins.

He was also preceded in death by 2 sons, Randy James Akins & Frankie Ladd Akins; and a grandson, Frankie “Dude” Akins.

Pallbearers will be Theodore Pace, Red Skelton, Bubbie St. Alexander, Harris Naquin, Sr., Harris Naquin, Jr. & Jim Tingle. Honorary Pallbearers are Wayne Akins, Mark Prescott, Jr., Johnathan Fergerson, Leslie “Henry” Day & Alvin Naquin, Sr.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Tuesday October 21, 2008 from 9:00AM until Religious Services at 2:00PM in the Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Paul Taylor officiating. Interment in the Greensburg Cemetery.

The family would like to thank everyone who touched James’ life. Also our gratitude to the Denham family for their heartfelt generosity, Thank You.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the James L. Akins Memorial Fund %McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, 60100 Westway Drive, Amite, La. 70422.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W next to Coggins-Gentry Ford.

Emerson C. Newman
(February 2, 1930 – October 17, 2008)

U.S. Veteran Mr. Emerson C. Newman was born February 2, 1930 and passed away at 4:05PM, Friday, October 17, 2008 at the G. V (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center in Jackson, MS. He was 78, a native of St. Francisville and a resident of Greensburg. Mr. Emerson was the son of the late Jesse Bernard, Sr. & Mary Calvit Newman. He also was a U. S. Air Force Veteran of the Korean Conflict.

He is survived by 3 daughters; Suzanne Newman Travis and husband, Bobby, Kentwood, Donna Jean Newman Black, Hammond, & Mala Fran Newman Schott and husband, John, Tickfaw; a son, Eric Newman, Baton Rouge; 10 Grandchildren, Ross, Craig, Carson, & Michelle Travis, Tyler & Chelsea Black, Rachel & Ashley Newman, Elizabeth & Joseph Schott.

Also preceded in death by his wife, Jean Fortenberry Newman; 2 brothers, Jesse B. Newman, Jr. & a infant Newman Boy; a sister, Bernadine Bradford.

Visitation at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, Sunday, October 19, 2008 from 6:00PM until 9:00PM and on Monday, October 20,2008 from 10:00AM until Religious Services at 2:00PM at the Wesley’s Chapel Methodist Church, Darlington, with Rev. LaMarylis Cotten officiating. Interment in the Wesley’s Chapel Church Cemetery.

An on-line guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W next to Coggins-Gentry Ford.

FBC, Kentwood Information

WMU meets at 4 P.M. today.

On Mission in Kentwood

  • Saturday, October 25
  • 8:00 A.M.
  • Ministry projects in Kentwood

Deacon Hospital Visitation

  • Tom Tolar
  • Raymond Cutrer

Nursery Workers Today

  • Gretchen Simpson
  • Jill Brister
  • Sharon Martin

Nursing Home Visitation – Tuesday @ 10 A.M.

Sr. Adult Eat-Out @ Charlies in Springfield

  • Bus leaves church @ 10:30 A.M.
  • Sign-up sheet

Revival DVD’s

  • All 5 services
  • $2.00
  • Call the church office to place your order.

Georgia Barnette State Offering

  • Received so far – $4279.00

Operation Christmas Child

  • Project of Samaritan’s Purse
  • Christmas Gifts for needy children worldwide
  • Deadline – November 16

Bible Character & Trunk or Treat

  • October 26
  • Call church office to include your vehicle.

Happy Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

SEARCHING FOR GOD

No doubt, you have received a sweepstakes notice at some time from American Family Publishers. You know how it works. You look over their magazine bargains — and the chance to buy a few for your office or waiting room. In return, they give you the opportunity to win large amounts of money.

In 1997, their mailing list included the Bushnell Assembly of God in Bushnell, Florida. The computer somehow twisted the name of the church and a sweepstakes notice addressed to “God of Bushnell” was sent to the church address.

The letter read, “Dear God, We’re searching for you. You’ve been positively identified as our $11,000,000 mystery millionaire!”

The letter went on to say, “What an incredible fortune there would be for God! Imagine the looks you’d get from neighbors. But don’t just sit there, God, come forward now and claim your prize!”

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if they truly were searching for God? If they sensed what Pascal called a “God-shaped void” in their lives and realized their need to come to know God and to understand what God could do for them? If they understood that the “prize” God offers is so much greater than the prize they were offering?

The good news is that God is not hiding and that those who truly are searching for him can find him.

“From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.'” (Acts 17:26-28a, NIV)

It is humorous that someone would be searching for God in order to give him 11 million dollars. He owns the “cattle on a thousand hills” (Psa. 50:10) and needs nothing. But he has blessings beyond measure for those who would seek him out. May you be counted among those who “reach out for him and find him.”

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Saturday

“Blessed be God,

who has not turned away my prayer,

nor His mercy from me!”

~Psalm 66:20~

Debbie Miller has not had any additional problems in the last couple of days. Pray she continues to be better and will be able to see a specialist soon.

From Sue Minor/Tucker:

Please pray for my son-inlaw’s mother Norma Handley who is in ICU at North Oaks and on a ventilator at this time. Please also remember all of her family as they go through this time with her. Please pray for comfort for her and healing if it be God’s will and pray for strength and peace for the family in knowing that God is with them always. Thank you so much for praying.

We had a great group for the share group meeting Thursday night. On of the things we did was pray for the election. Don’t forget to unite with Christians across the country as they pray at 8 P.M. (our time zone). There’s power in prayer!

OnMission in Kentwood will be a week from today. Join us as we serve together in Jesus’ name.

James L. Akins
(February 16, 1940 – October 17, 2008)

James L. Akins was born on February 16, 1940 and passed away at 12:30AM, Friday, October 17, 2008 at Cannon Hospice, Elmwood Campus in New Orleans. Mr. James was 68, a native of Winnsboro, SC and a resident of Greensburg. He was the son of the late James & Lillie Woods Akins.He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Helen N. Akins, Greensburg; 2 loving daughters, Shelia Prescott, McComb, MS & Capri Lewis, Ridgeway, SC; a loving son, Wayne Akins, Greensburg; 4 sisters, Colleen Carter, Jessup, GA, Cassie Lee Rumore, Tampa, FL, Mary Akins, Winnsboro, SC & Laura Mae LeGrand, Winnsboro, SC; a brother, Marshall Akins, Hopewell, VA; 7 Grandchildren, Mark Prescott, Jr., Kristen Akins, Jonathan Akins, Crystle Akins, Crustle Akins, Frannie Akins, & Cameron Akins; his mother-in-law, Mrs. Leonise Leonard, Marrero, LA; and numerous nieces & nephews.

He was also preceded in death by 2 sons, Randy James Akins & Frankie Ladd Akins; and a grandson, Frankie “Dude” Akins.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Tuesday October 21, 2008 from 9:00AM until Religious Services at 2:00PM in the Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Paul Taylor officiating. Interment in the Greensburg Cemetery.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W next to Coggins-Gentry Ford.

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Friday, October 17, 2008

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12: 1-2a, NKJV)

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, joining you in prayer for the nations.

India’s middle class is growing and is becoming very economically powerful. As their power and influence grows, they are beginning to question some of the “old ways,” practices that their parents and grandparents took for granted. The younger generation is seeking something to bring more meaning, more significance to their lives. But with only one true evangelical Christian to approximately 6 million people, the Bride of Christ needs to look at how she is dealing with their search. The corporate world is certainly making an impact. Consumerism has hit India hard. Indians are responding, seeing if the affluence that the West loves so well is what brings happiness. Do you wonder what idol will hold more bondage over the Indians as time continues? Will it be Shiva, Krishna, Ram or Ganesh? Or will it be money? Pray to Almighty God that none of these will prevail, but that Indians will turn to Jesus, finding their true significance through serving Him. Ask God to stir His church to respond in ways that give India’s young middle class a better option–a life surrendered to Jesus.

In these difficult economic times, is there any wonder what idol holds bondage over many of us in the United States? As we pray for the nations, pray also for those in our own country who are struggling with fear and concern. Pray that they will place their trust wholly in the Lord.

* Please pray for the salvation of many young middle class adults in India.

* Pray they will run their race with endurance.

* Intercede for yourself and fellow Christians that we will all keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.


October 2008

Meeting Needs in the Caribbean

Chaplains from the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (RRT) arrived Oct. 6 on Grand Turk Island in response to a request by area pastors. Hurricane Ike ripped through the Turks and Caicos Islands on Sept. 7 as a Category 4 storm with 135-mph winds, damaging as much as 95 percent of the housing on Grand Turk, the governing seat of the 25,000-resident British territory. Grand Turk Island is located in the Caribbean, and is approximately 6.9 square miles in size.

Even in the short time they have been there, chaplains are making a big impact. The RRT has trained 14 pastors and church leaders, prayed with 365 people, and led four people to Christ for the first time. They are working in conjunction with a team from Samaritan s Purse. Learn more »

The Long Road to Recovery

Rampant chaos and trauma have overwhelmed police officers in the areas damaged by Hurricane Ike in Texas and Louisiana, but officers are too busy helping others to give themselves time to heal. Trained Rapid Response Team chaplains visited local police departments and spent time with officers who are depressed and downtrodden in the aftermath of the storm.

Altogether, 16 Rapid Response Team chaplains are working 24/7 to minister to victims of Hurricane Ike. They have counseled approximately 350 people and will remain in the area for weeks, visiting homes, hospitals and damaged areas and bringing the healing love of Jesus Christ with their presence. Read the rest of the article »


Please help
By supporting the Rapid Response Team, you can help us respond to emergencies like Hurricane Ike and tell of the One who heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds (Psalm 147:3, NIV). Thank you for your prayers. We also greatly value your financial support.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Anna Lee

Sunday

“Oh, give thanks to the Lord!

Call upon His name;

make known His deeds among the peoples!”

~Psalm 105:1~

 

 

Prayer Requests from Holly K.

* The people of Senegal
* The family I will be working with in Senegal – safety and good health
* My younger brother as he prepares to head back to Iraq in a month
* My grandmother as she recovers from major surgery
* Safe travel for me and my friends to Virginia

 

Deacon Hospital Ministry

  • Robert Wilson
  • Tom Brister

Nursery Workers Today

  • Stacy Strickland
  • Emily Daniels
  • Elisabeth Sanders
  • Nancy Stokes

We’re over half way to our goal of $7,500.00 for the Georgia Barnette State Missions Offering and will soon begin Operation Christmas Child (Shoebox Ministry for Children).

Terrified Christian Families Flee Iraq’s Mosul

Saturday , October 11, 2008

AP

BAGHDAD –
Hundreds of terrified Christian families have fled Mosul to escape extremist attacks that have increased despite months of U.S. and Iraqi military operations to secure the northern Iraqi city, political and religious officials said Saturday.

Some 3,000 Christians have fled the city over the past week alone in a “major displacement,” said Duraid Mohammed Kashmoula, the governor of northern Iraq’s Ninevah province. He said most have left for churches, monasteries and the homes of relatives in nearby Christian villages and towns.

“The Christians were subjected to abduction attempts and paid ransom, but now they are subjected to a killing campaign,” Kashmoula said, adding he believed “Al Qaeda” elements were to blame and called for a renewed drive to root them out.

Political and religious leaders interviewed said the change in tactics may reflect a desire on the part of extremists to forcibly evict all Christians from Iraq’s third largest city.

Earlier this week, Chaldean Archbishop Louis Sako said he was worried about what he termed a “campaign of killings and deportations against the Christian citizens in Mosul.”

Mosul police have reported finding the bullet-riddled bodies of seven Christians in separate attacks so far this month, the latest a day laborer found on Wednesday. On Saturday, militants blew up three abandoned Christian homes in eastern Mosul, police said.

Father Bolis Jacob of Mosul’s Mar Afram Church said he was at a loss to understand the violence. “We respect the Islamic religion and the Muslim clerics,” he said. “We don’t know under what religion’s pretexts these terrorists work.”

The violence in Mosul occurs despite U.S.-Iraqi operations launched over the summer aimed at routing Al Qaeda in Iraq and other insurgents from remaining strongholds north of the capital.

The killings come as Christian leaders are lobbying parliament to pass a law setting aside a number of seats for minorities, such as Christians, in upcoming provincial elections, fearing they could be further marginalized in the predominantly Muslim country.

Iraq’s Christian community has been estimated at 3 percent of Iraq’s 26 million people, or about 800,000, and has a significant presence in the northern Ninevah province.

In Mosul, where Christians have lived for some 1,800 years, a number of centuries-old churches still stand.

Joseph Jacob, a professor at Mosul University, said there were nearly 20,000 Christians in the city before the 2003 U.S. invasion. But over half have since left for neighboring towns, or new countries, he said.

Islamic extremists have frequently targeted Christians since the invasion, forcing tens of thousands to flee Iraq. Attacks had tapered off amid a drastic decline in overall violence nationwide, but that appears to be changing with the deaths this month.

On Saturday, Bashir Azoz, a 45-year-old carpenter, said he was forced to flee his home in the city’s eastern Noor area after gunmen warned a neighbor the day before to leave or face death.

“Where is the government and its security forces as these crimes take place every day?” asked Azoz, who is now staying with his wife and three children in a monastery in the Christian-majority town of Qarqoush, east of Mosul.

Separately on Saturday, a U.S. soldier died when a bomb exploded near his vehicle outside Amarah, southeast of Baghdad. The U.S. military said it was withholding soldier’s name until it notified next of kin.

As we freely worship today, let’s take time to pray for those who cannot worship freely around the world. Pray they will cling to their faith and remain faithful.

Anna Lee