Category: FBC

Thursday

“I thank my God

upon every remembrance of you,

…being confident of this very thing,

that He who has begun a good work in you

will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.”

~Philippians 1:3-6~

 

Please continue to pray for Mrs. Marie Sims. She will be in ICU at North Oaks for a few more days.

Pray for the many people in our area who are undergoing cancer treatment.

Pray for the senior adults as they battle the heat. Especially pray for those without air conditioning.

Pray for those who are struggling with inflation and limited incomes.

Pray for the church youth as they make plans to attend student life camp next week.

Pray for Marvelous Mondays in July. Former staff members will lead in worship.

Pray for Jamie Schwartz and his family as he will return to Iraq on the 10th.

LAST FRONTIER. The time of year that marks an increase in the terrible “mosquito diseases” is coming in the next few months. Mosquito repellant will be given away to those who live in the neighborhood that has the most mosquito disease-related deaths per year in all the world. Please pray that children will be protected from disease. Pray that those who become sick this season will turn to the Great Physician for healing and salvation.

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. The R family has had to change their stateside assignment dates. Mission housing is usually booked years in advance and can be difficult to find. Pray that the Lord will provide them a place to live from July to December.

MUSLIMS: PRAYING BEYOND THE WALL. After hearing the testimony of a South Asian Muslim-background believer, a Muslim man with whom he was meeting said, “You’re lying!” The believer replied, “I am not. Why would I lie? This is a good thing that God has done. If I were lying, I couldn’t talk to you anymore.” Pray that this Muslim man, and others like him who doubt the power of Jesus to save from sin, will realize that a man’s testimony is his word of honor before Almighty God. Pray that upon hearing how Jesus has changed a former Muslim’s life, the doubters will be convicted of the truth and will turn to follow Him. http://btw.imb.org/

 

 

 

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
IN THEIR BOOK, “WHY ME?”, Pesach Krauss and Morrie Goldfisher tell a story about two men who cut down an aged hardwood…

The woodcutter’s observations about the inner rings within the old tree are compelling:

“…I sometimes tell patients the parable about the two wood choppers who had taken down a tree that was over one hundred years old. Looking at the growth rings to determine the tree’s age, the younger man noticed that there were five very narrow rings. He concluded that there had been a five-year-drought, during which the tree had shown very little growth. However, the other lumberman, a wise, old man with a philosophical bent, had a different viewpoint. He contended that the dry years actually were the most significant in the tree’s history. His reason: Because of the drought, the tree had to force its roots down further to get the water and the minerals it needed. With a strengthened root system, it was able to grow faster and taller when conditions improved”/1

Observations:

1. All of us inevitably experience “dry years” at some juncture in our lives. “For we do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia: that we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life” (2 Corinthians 1:8; cf. 2 Corinthians 11:23-28). Like the apostle Paul, we can identify with those occasional periods of trouble and burden; they are an inescapable part of the human condition (cf. Job 14:1; 2 Corinthians 12:7).

2. “Dry years” tend to be intense, but limited in duration. “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:6-7). “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Corinthians 4:17; cf. Romans 8:18). In a manner of speaking, a part of what I hear Peter and Paul saying is that while a five-year drought is harsh and difficult to tolerate, it eventually comes to an end. (Mike Benson at: http://www.forthright.net/)

1/ Pesach Krauss and Morrie Goldfisher, “A Time of Trouble Is a Time To Grow,” WHY ME? — Coping with Grief, Loss, and Change, 71.

“Are they ministers of Christ?-I speak as a fool-I am more: in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness- besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches” (2 Cor. 11:23-28).

Lord, help us to all grow some “roots” so we can withstand the trails in our lives.

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)

Pray for Mrs. Marie Sims as the doctors at North Oaks try to determine her problem and the best treatment.

Please continue to pray for Curt Martin and his family in the loss of his dad.

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. Blake and Dawnya Kimbrough, who serve among the Nyika people of Zambia, write: “This month, we will welcome our fourth child into our family! We ask you to pray for a good delivery, a healthy baby boy, and a smooth transition as we adjust to having a new family member. We also ask you to pray for the Bible study groups meeting in Luwalizi and Katete villages, as we will be away from Zambia for over a month to have the baby. Pray that the new believers will continue meeting as a group, evangelizing, and growing in their walk with the Lord.”

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Wednesday, July 2, 2008

“Nicodemus said to Him, ‘How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?'” (John 3:4, NKJV)

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, rejoicing with you in new birth.

To be an 81-year-old man in a Wassulu village means that you have passed the life expectancy of a man in the village by approximately 35 years. To be the oldest man in a Wassulu village who accepts Christ as His Lord and Savior at age 81 means that you will open the door for others as well. Praise God for this man’s recent salvation and for the years he has left to share his testimony.

The West Africa Engagement Team shares this wonderful news: “Six years ago, God led us to our ‘village brother’ who has helped us facilitate many volunteer teams. He has heard about Jesus countless times. We were surprised when he recently asked if he could share a thought during our Bible storying time in a village. He said, ‘If you read the Bible every day and follow what it says, I think your way will be easy to go to heaven. It’s not just for reading, but God wants you to live it and teach it to your children. If you read it, you know that God sent Jesus to show the way. If you can’t read it, ask someone to help you; you will understand. You must read it and follow the way; it’s the way to God. Even if you’re busy, take just five minutes and you’ll learn. Teach your children-it’s your responsibility. They are the next generation, and they deserve to hear the Truth.’ Our hearts leaped with joy as we realized what he was really saying! According to his profession of faith to us that day, praise God for our new brother in Christ.

* Please pray for others to accept the new birth Jesus offers.

* Thank God for His redeeming grace.

* Intercede for your family members who do not yet know Him.

1st Marvelous Monday at FBC, Kentwood – June, 2008

  • Keith Rhodes – Speaking
  • Chris Wales – Music
  • Bob Raborn – Piano

Delores Elaine Walker Larin
(October 23, 1932 – July 1, 2008)

Dolores Elaine Walker Larin died July 1st, 2008, at age 75. She is survived by brother and sister-in-law, Dannie E. Walker, Jr. and Iris Walker, brother Wade Walker, nieces Shannon Walker Parker, Darlene Walker Brecher, Joy Walker Garbett, Jan Walker Bennett, Donna Morgan Varnado, Angie Walker Wilson, and a nephew Bryan Morgan. She is also survived by two great-nieces, five great-nephews and a great-great nephew. She was preceded in death by her husband Julius C. Larin, Jr., her parents Dannie E. Walker, Sr. and Myrtie McDaniel Walker, a sister and brother-in-law Nancy Juana Walker Morgan and Devon Morgan. Services will be held at McKneely Funeral Home in Amite with visitation from 9:00 a.m. until time of the funeral at 11 :00 a.m. on July 3, 2008, with Father Peter Hammett and Rev. Ray Varnado officiating. Interment will be in the Walker Cemetery, Wilmer, Louisiana. Pallbearers are Lavell Parker, Ronald Brecher, Christian Garbett, Gary Bennett, Bryan Morgan, and Bart Wilson. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Holy Family Catholic Church, 1318 Bickham Street, Franklinton, LA 70438 or Lakeshore Hospice, 2659 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, LA 70471.

I predict this devotional will bring a smile to your face. Then, it will bring some serious thought as you consider your actions.

DON’T SHOW UP EMPTY-HANDED

 

Joe and Mike had not seen each other in many years. After meeting, they had a long talk trying to fill in the gap of those years by telling about their lives. Finally, Joe invited Mike to visit him in his new apartment.

“I’ve got a wife and three kids and I’d love to have you visit us.”

“Great. Where do you live?”

“Here’s the address. And there’s plenty of parking behind the apartment. Park and come around to the front door, kick it open with your foot, go to the elevator and press the button with your left elbow, then enter! When you reach the sixth floor, go down the hall until you see my name on the door. Then press the doorbell with your right elbow and I’ll let you in.”

“Good. But tell me… what is all this business of kicking the front door open, then pressing buttons with my right, then my left elbow?”

“Surely, you’re not coming empty-handed!”

As we approach God, surely we do not attempt to come to Him empty-handed. Listen to these instructions given to the Jews in the Law of Moses:

“Three times a year all your males shall appear before the LORD your God in the place which He chooses: at the Feast of Unleavened Bread, at the Feast of Weeks, and at the Feast of Tabernacles; and they shall not appear before the LORD empty-handed. Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD your God which He has given you.” (Deut. 16:16-17)

God has blessed us richly in so many ways. He wants us — no, He expects us — to bring a gift when we come to Him. We should not appear before the Lord empty-handed. Are your hands full?

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Happy Wednesday!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

A new command I give you:

Love one another.

As I have loved you,

so you must love one another.

By this all men will know that you are my disciples,

if you love one another.

~John13:34 (NIV)~

Flood Vols Keep Priorities Right
By Geoff Hammond

Baptist Press

EDITOR’S NOTE: As of Monday (June 30), Southern Baptist disaster relief volunteers in the Midwest had worked 4,500 volunteer days; prepared more than 240,000 meals, completed 200 mud-out and chainsaw jobs, provided almost 1,300 showers for flood victims and workers, completed 436 laundry loads, and recorded 2,007 chaplaincy contacts, 17 professions of faith and other decisions, 141 Gospel presentations and 763 ministry contacts. (Statistics provided by the national disaster relief operations center at NAMB in Alpharetta, Ga.)


CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (BP)–“Are you working in Cedar Rapids?” the girl at the McDonald’s drive-through window asked as we purchased our lunch. She had seen the large Southern Baptist disaster relief decal on our vehicle and recognized our yellow shirts.

“My sister’s house was flooded and they are cleaning it out today,” the girl continued.

“Well, do they have anyone to help with the clean-up?” asked Terry Henderson, the North American Mission Board’s (NAMB) disaster relief coordinator.

“They have already pulled the floor up,” she replied.

“What about spraying for mold? We will help them do that. Just tell them to go to Immanuel Baptist on ‘F’ avenue and they can sign up for help,” Terry said, encouraging her to tell her sister.

“Thank you, I’ll tell her,” she said. “Oh, I almost forgot to give you your order,” she said as she passed the bag of food through the window.

As I listened to that two-minute conversation from the passenger’s seat, I thought to myself, “Now that sums up the situation here in Iowa during this flooding. Thousands of homes have been damaged, families are pitching in to help, homeowners are busily doing everything they can to recover what is left, but they still need our help.”

Last week, I was able to see first-hand how Southern Baptists are helping in Iowa. The day started in an incident command center in Des Moines with a briefing at 8 a.m. Seasoned disaster relief veterans from six state conventions gathered for prayer and a devotion before they began assessing all incoming information to determine how best to utilize volunteer resources.

“Now here is Southern Baptist cooperation at its very best,” I thought to myself, as I looked around the room. People who had never met before today were serving together. The Cooperative Program is not just the name of the giving plan for missions; it is the way we do missions together.

We made the two-hour journey to Cedar Rapids in a diesel truck. Along the way, the driver told me a generous donor leases trucks to SBC disaster relief for $1 a month along with a half-dozen other trucks. God is raising up generous people over and over again to give sacrificially to our relief efforts.

As we drove through downtown Cedar Rapids, I saw the original Quaker Oats factory nestled along the river banks, as it has been since 1883. The buildings were intact, trees were not uprooted and power lines were still overhead. But floods are different from hurricanes. On the outside, everything looks fine until you look closely and see the brown watermarks two or three feet above the foundations. Then as we turned the corner, there were the familiar piles in the street — appliances, furniture and personal possessions. The terrible smell was so strong that families trying to clean up were wearing masks over their noses. Just a week or so ago what is now considered items of “trash” were neatly arranged belongings inside these homes. Everything was functioning and in place. What a difference a few days makes!

We saw the Red Cross emergency response vehicles driving slowly through the neighborhoods, delivering food prepared by Southern Baptist volunteers. At Immanuel Baptist Church, we met volunteers from Texas as they were cleaning up after preparing 3,700 lunches in just a few hours. Now they were getting ready to prepare supper. I asked how it was going.

“Oh this is great!” the group of ladies replied, “We are enjoying ourselves!” There was no mention of long hours, inconvenience or sleeping on cots in the church. I met a younger couple who told me that they had been in Cedar Rapids for two weeks already and were just glad to have an opportunity to serve the Lord. Not a complaint anywhere. I wanted to shout out loud.

We spent a cheerful few minutes chatting with a couple who was running the shower/laundry unit, washing clothes for volunteers and people in the community. They were not even sure when they would get to go home because they could not leave until their replacements arrived. Now that the water had subsided, SBC mud-out crews were on their way in.

We stopped at a Korean Southern Baptist church in Iowa City — All Nations Baptist Church pastored by Rev. Jong-Lee — that had housed 50 volunteers from Alabama for more than a week. The pastor shared how the volunteers had learned to pray every day with the Korean congregation, and the Koreans had learned about service from the volunteers. “Isn’t that just like my Heavenly Father,” I thought to myself. “As we go on mission and give ourselves, we become the greater beneficiaries.”

As the day drew to a close, I stopped to pray for the gracious Baptist Convention of Iowa leadership who had turned almost all of their offices into an incident command center. I prayed for the volunteers serving and traveling. I gave thanks for the privilege of being a part of God’s family called Southern Baptists. I prayed for some people I heard about who had come to Christ through the disaster relief efforts. I prayed for the dozens of mud-out teams needed over the next few months.

“Oh, I almost forgot to get supper,” I said to myself. Like the girl at the drive-through window, I was thinking about more important things. And then the words of Jesus came to me: “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me.” (John 4:34).

A day in the life of a disaster relief volunteer will help anyone get their priorities right.

(Geoff Hammond is president of the Southern Baptist North American Mission Board.)

This article reflects the blessings received by ministering to others. On Mission in Kentwood provides the same kind of blessings.

Anna Lee

Sunday

 

“Finally, brethren, pray for us,

that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified,

just as it is with you.”

~2 Thessalonians 3:1~

On Mission in Kentwood had another rewarding day. Each person who participated was richly blessed. Several projects were completed for members of our church, but most were for people who are not members. What a fantastic outreach!

Pray for Mrs. Parmys Stegall as she continues to heal from a broken shoulder. She has a good attitude concerning her present limitations.

Pray for Mrs. Susie Wales as she continues to have tests checking for heart problems. She hasn’t let that slow her down and as her usual fun spirit.

Pray for Richard Dunn. He has a two week wait before more tests and treatment. As you pray for Richard, pray for Cathy and the other family members.

Coming soon: Baby shower for Colby Erwin on July 13th



Joy Ann Moore
(February 16, 1935 – June 28, 2008)

Died at 8 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2008 at her residence in Independence. She was a native of Grenada, MS. Age 73 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 8 a.m. on Monday until religious services at 11 a.m. Monday. Services conducted by Rev. David Cutrer. Interment Arcola-Roseland Cemetery, Roseland. She is survived by her 6 children, Ottress E. Moore, Jr. and his wife, Debbie, Nancy Mannino and her husband Angelo, Michael Moore and his wife, Betty, Linda Moore, Vickie Moore, and Cindy Moore, all of Independence, 13 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, sister, Ann Delvisco, Baton Rouge. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ottress E. Moore, Sr., parents, Godfrey and Katherine Smith, twin great- granddaughters, Lillian and Leah, 2 sisters, Shirley Giroir, and Jean Costanza. Pallbearers will be Bryan Mannino, Brandon Santangelo, Scottie Mannino, Tommy Brumfield, Buffa Moore, Cliff Moore and an honorary pallbearer, Brett Brumfield.

Decision Magazine Weekly E-mail Devotional
June 24, 2008


“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves.

Do what it says. …

The man who looks intently

into the perfect law that gives freedom,

and continues to do this,

not forgetting what he has heard,

but doing it-he will be blessed in what he does”
(James 1:22,25, NIV).

 

A Word From Billy Graham »

Solomon had religion. He built the greatest temple the world has ever known. … But God warns through Isaiah the Prophet, “Bring no more futile sacrifices; Incense is an abomination to Me. The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the calling of assemblies–I cannot endure iniquity and the sacred meeting” (Isaiah 1:13).

Some of you have religion, but you … do not know Christ for yourself. You have depended on your parents’ religion, or you have depended on a church relationship, or you have depended on a religious exercise that you went through. But somehow, deep in your heart, you know that you are a long way from God and that sin is in your heart. Religion without a personal encounter with Christ will not save your soul or bring the peace that your soul longs for.

… Solomon said, “Fear God and keep His commandments. — For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14). … His experience and experiments led him back to God. He said, “Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). You need to find real pleasure, real joy, real satisfaction, in Jesus Christ.

I hope you have the real pleasure, real joy, and real satisfaction that is found in Jesus Christ.

Anna Lee

Saturday

“So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;

it shall not return to Me void,

but it shall accomplish what I please,

and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent.”

~Isaiah 55:11~

I hope you are participating with On Mission in Kentwood. If you are not, please be in prayer for those who will be working this morning and those we will minister to.

AIDS. An article appeared in the Pietermaritzburg paper in South Africa, telling of yet another baby dumped in the bushes of a township. Many babies are born to very young girls and they do not want to keep them, so many are killed or dumped somewhere where, it is hoped, someone will find them. Tabitha Ministries has a “Moses box” in one area and does school presentations, telling girls to leave their babies in the box and the ministry will care for them. Currently the ministry has 30 orphans, most of whom are HIV-positive. Pray that as volunteers raise these children, God will provide for their needs. Pray for them to continue to receive anti-retroviral drugs so they may remain as healthy as possible for as long as possible. http://www.imb.org/AIDS/

FOCUS ON SOUTH ASIA: ENDS OF THE EARTH.Pray for the Baraigi people, numbering approximately 2 million in West Bengal, India, alone. They are also found in many other areas of India. In West Bengal they are known as Baishnab or Bostom and speak the Bengali language. Today they are usually found running small businesses, performing service-type jobs, or singing religious songs (seeking for alms). They follow the Hindu religion and have regional- as well as community-specific folksongs, folklore and folktales. The vast majority of them have never heard of Jesus. http://www.go2southasia.org/

MUSLIMS: PRAYING BEYOND THE WALL. The Republic of Dagestan in southern Russia is the home of the 650,000 Avar people. This area was world famous for its Muslim training centers until the Russians occupied the area in the mid-1800’s. Today Islam is enjoying a resurgence due to poor living conditions, rising minority nationalism, and corruption. In spite of this, many Avar are open to spiritual discussions with Christians, especially in the context of a trusted friendship. Pray for the Avar to have an opportunity to know believers, to hear their testimonies, and to hear/read the Word of God. Ask God to open their hearts to His truth. http://btw.imb.org/

Pray for the Hatchels as their already busy schedule becomes busier in about a week. They will have summer missionaries, new missionary family arriving for the first time, International World Changers, and Romanian/Roma missionaries arriving te same week. Your prayers for each group would be greatly appreciated.

DYING TO SELF

Note: The following piece came to me “author unknown.” It is not humorous, but is designed to cause us to reflect. I hope you appreciate the change of pace.

When you are forgotten, or neglected, or purposely set at naught, and you don’t sting and hurt with the insult or the oversight, but your heart is happy, being counted worthy to suffer for Christ, that is dying to self.

When your good is evil spoken of, when your wishes are crossed, your advice disregarded, your opinions ridiculed, and you refuse to let anger rise in your heart, or even defend yourself, but take in all in patient, loving silence, that is dying to self.

When you lovingly and patiently bear any disorder, any irregularity, any impunctuality, or any annoyance; when you stand face-to-face with waste, folly, extravagance, spiritual insensibility — and endure it as Jesus endured, that is dying to self.

When you are content with any food, any offering, any climate, any society, any raiment, any interruption by the will of God, that is dying to self.

When you never care to refer to yourself in conversation, or to record your own good works, or itch after commendations, when you can truly love to be unknown, that is dying to self.

When you can see your brother prosper and have his needs met and can honestly rejoice with him in spirit and feel no envy, nor question God, while your own needs are far greater and in desperate circumstances, that is dying to self.

When you can receive correction and reproof from one of less stature than yourself and can humbly submit inwardly as well as outwardly, finding no rebellion or resentment rising up within your heart, that is dying to self.

“Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matthew 16:24-25)

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Have a wonderful Saturday!

Anna Lee

Friday

 

Each of you should look not only to your own interests,

but also to the interests of others.

~Philippians 2:4 (NIV)~

Mrs. Lula Mae Will is out of intensive care and in a room. Pray for her as she continues to recover from her accident.

Chuck Pittman has completed his round of treatment. Pray for him as her waits three months before tests to determine the effectiveness of the treatment. Waiting is harder than doing something for most of us. Pray for Chuck as he waits.

Pray for the eight new parish principals as they move into their schools and begin the transition process.

On Mission in Kentwood will be tomorrow. It’s not too late to sign up to work or for work to be done at your home. Either way, you will be blessed! You can contact me or the church office.

Albert Edward Buras, Jr.
(March 18, 1951 – June 25, 2008)

Died at 9:35PM on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center in Independence, LA. He was a native of New Orleans, LA and a resident of Amite, LA. Age 57 years. Mr. Buras was manager of Florida Parish Co-Op in Amite. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Friday and from 5 p.m. on Monday until memorial services at 6 p.m. Monday. Services conducted by Rev. Mike Hegwood. Survived by spouse, Judie Anne Hunter Buras, Amite, son, Trey Buras and his fiancee’, Kassandra, New Mexico, brother, Larry Buras, Chalmette, grandson, Kaxton Buras, New Mexico, step-daughter Amber Hardy and her husband, Tommy, Loranger, step-son, Jason Cook and his fiancee’, Michelle, Hamilton Ontario, CA, close family friend, Mary Zaumbrecker, Simmsport. Preceded in death by son, Brandon “Binki” Buras, parents, Albert E. Buras, Sr. and Bertha Buras, and granddaughter, Bryntly Buras. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society.

Vivian Womack
(November 20, 1908 – June 24, 2008)

Died at 9:00AM on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at her residence in Greensburg, LA. She was a native and lifelong resident of St. Helena Parish. Age 99 years. Mrs. Womack had 43 years of service with the St. Helena School System as a teacher and supervisor of teachers. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9 a.m. on Saturday until religious services at 2 p.m. Saturday. Services conducted by Rev. Joe Baugh. Interment Greensburg Cemetery, Greensburg, LA. Survived by nieces and nephews, Preceded in death by her husband, Richard Lee Womack, parents, N. Hayden and Lena Morgan Singleton, 4 sisters, Leota Singleton Hornsby, Estelle Singleton Bond, Lora Singleton Lindsey, and Ruth Singleton Highbaugh, 1 brother, Nelson M. Singleton, niece, Victoria Singleton, 5 nephews, James H. Bond, Nelson Lindsey, Douglas Hornsby, Charles “Butch” Hornsby, and Randy Singleton.

KOM pray

(Kids on Mission Pray)

 

June 27, 2008

“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

HER GIFT TO GOD

There are a lot of Chinese people living in Canada. I went to http://www.peoplegroups.info and found out that 568,453 people from China live in thirteen Canadian provinces. A province is kind of like a state here in the US.

One of those half a million Chinese is a young girl who told her mother that she wanted to give an offering at church. She’s a Christian. After adding up all her money, she had $2.24. The girl told her mom that she would give one half. How much is that? Half of $2 is $1; half of 24 cents is 12 cents-so she was going to give $1.24. Okay, enough math!

The very next week, the little girl told her mother she wanted to give another offering. Mom asked, “How much will you give this week?”

To her mother’s surprise, the girl responded, “I want to give it all!” Then she told her mom about a memory verse she had learned, “The wildflower doesn’t need to spend money and the birds-God gives them food.” Find Luke 12:22-28 in your Bible to read what Jesus said.

Chinese Christians in Canada are sometimes tempted by money and all the nice stuff they can buy. That’s just like you and me. We can be tempted to want the newest game or clothes. Pray for the Chinese Christians at Truth Baptist Church and Abundant Life Chinese Baptist Church that they will come to God with the faith of a child. Pray that all of us will be willing to “give it all” to God.


MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS
Right now, people are very open. So, one of my prayer requests is that all the people in our city will hear before they stop being so open. There about 7 million people in our city. And also, pray that I would not be so embarrassed to tell people about God.
MICHELLE, age 10 ½ (East Asia)

Please pray that I will have courage to tell my best friend about Jesus.
ADRIANN, age 8 (East Asia)

Pray for my friend who lives right by me. She is 14, and I want to share the gospel with her, but I don’t know the story of Christ in Pulaar yet. I plan on getting a Pulaar Bible, so I can learn and eventually share with her.


Help me to know Jesus better. Pray for me to have a good friend in our town. Help me to learn Thai. DAWSON, age 7 (Pacific Rim)

Dear God,
Thank You for my family, my country, and my friends. I ask you to work deep in my brother’s heart. Please help my friend know what to do about dating. I pray that her boyfriend will love You too. In Jesus’ name, Amen. MARISSA, age 11 (South America)


DWELLING IN GOD’S HOUSE

I read recently about a lady who had just moved from an apartment to a house in the same small town. One day at the grocery store, she used the last of her personalized checks bearing her old address. The cashier examined the check and asked if all the information on it was correct. The shopper assured her that it was correct, and the cashier started to put the check in the cash drawer. But then she inquired again if everything was accurate.

“Why do you ask?” the shopper responded.

“Because,” she replied, “my husband and I moved to this apartment yesterday, and I don’t remember seeing you at breakfast.”

Busted! This woman could have gone to any other store in the town and told them that was still her address and no one would have suspected a thing. But there was no way to fool this cashier because she lived there herself.

It’s much the same way with our spiritual lives. It’s easy to fool a lot of folks. “How’s your prayer life?” Couldn’t be better! “How’s your walk in Christ?” It’s fine. No problems at all!

But I wonder if there are times when we’ve moved away from God without telling anyone. They don’t know we’ve moved. For all they know, everything’s fine. But we can’t fool God. “Things are great? That’s funny, because I don’t remember seeing you at breakfast.”

One of the most well-known of all scriptures is Psalm 23. You’ve heard it recited hundreds of times, as have I. But I wonder if all these years I’ve misunderstood the very last phrase. You see, I’ve always understood David to take assurance in the knowledge that there is an eternal home waiting for him. But could it be instead that David was making a promise of his commitment to stay close to God?

“I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (Psalm 23:6b)

Others may think we still dwell there. But has God seen us around lately? May God strengthen us in our resolve to dwell with Him all the days of our lives, so that we may dwell with Him for all eternity.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

I have a similar story to that of the cashier. About thirty years ago David and I asked a man about where he attended church. He told us Roseland Baptist Church, not knowing that was our church. When asked again, he still said Roseland Baptist Church and added that he sang in the choir. I played the piano and David sang in the choir. He wasn’t at Roseland!

May we all be able to give honest answers when questioned about our faith and our church attendance. I have often thought about that man. He knew he should be in church and knew which one was closest to his house, but he didn’t attend there or anywhere else. I wish we could have helped to cause a change in his life, but I don’t think that happened.

Anna Lee

Thursday

For we are God’s workmanship,

created in Christ Jesus to do good works,

which God prepared in advance for us to do.

~Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)~

Christina Cox seems to be feeling better. Doctors at Children’s Hospital will have more information for the family soon. Please continue to pray for Christina and her family.

Pray for Joan Hagan as she awaits her next appointment on July 7th and Jimmy Tolar as he prepares for surgery on July 8th.

Pray for those in the nursing home (Betty Allen, John H, McGehee, Bertie hano, Sadie Hilburn, and Ona Schilling) and those who are homebound (Jimmie Shaw, Charley Kuss, and Yvonne Jones).

On Mission in Kentwood is Saturday. If you know of a project for the volunteers, please contact me or the church office. If you would like to volunteer to work with us, please contact me or the church office.

KneEmail – Joy
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor


JUNE’S FRIENDS HUDDLED in the hallway of the hospital…

“We’ve got to be positive,” Janice explained, “because June’s condition is very serious. Half of the battle against cancer is attitude, they say, and we’ve got to help her develop a good attitude. Don’t let the shock of her appearance show on your faces. Make this visit an encouraging one!”

So they filed into the dark room where June lay in fear and trepidation. June smiled, and her smile lit up the room. She held out her hands in welcome, and her eyes seemed even larger and prettier now that her hair had gone because of the treatment.

When they left the room, June’s friends realized that she had encouraged them, not the other way around.

The little book of Philippians uses the word “joy” and “rejoice” fourteen times in four chapters, yet Paul penned these words from prison. Roman prisons were rarely mistaken for Sheraton Hotels. Dingy, rat-infested cells were attended by “room service” consisting of grim Roman legionaries.

Yet Paul sought to encourage his readers, not the other way around. How could he be so positive under these circumstances? Perhaps Paul’s contentment didn’t depend on his circumstances! Maybe his attitude stemmed, not from what happened to him, but from who he was. It was Paul, after all, who declared later in the same book that if we thought about whatever was good, and pure, and lovely we could experience the “peace that passes understanding” (Philippians 4:7,8).

So who are you? (Stan Mitchell at: http://www.forthright.net/reality_check/so_who_are_you.html)

“Now I want you to know, brothers,

that what has happened to me

has really served to advance the gospel.”

~Philippians 1:12~

Be sure to take some joy with you today!

Anna Lee

Sunday

 

 

“Have you not known? Have you not heard?

The everlasting God, the LORD,

the Creator of the ends of the earth,

neither faints nor is weary.

His understanding is unsearchable.

He gives power to the weak,

and to those who have no might He increases strength.

Even the youths shall faint and be weary,

and the young men shall utterly fall,

but those who wait on the LORD

shall renew their strength;

they shall mount up with wings like eagles,

they shall run and not be weary,

they shall walk and not faint.”

~Isa. 40:28-31~

Please don’t forget to bring toiletries for Kelly Schneeweiss’ mission trip to Honduras. Money will be acceptable too if you forgot to get toiletries. You may give your donations to a member of the Schneeweiss family or to me. Thank-you for supporting this young lady as she goes on a medical mission trip. Please pray for live-changing decision to be made as medical needs are addressed.

Katie Weiburg and her dad, Bro. Gary Weiburg formerly of Roseland Baptist Church, will be going on a mission trip to Central America this week. Please pray for their ministry as lives as touched.

Bro. Chip Sloan, another former pastor at Roseland Baptist Church, will be taking a mission trip to work with the Roma (Gypsies) in Romania during July. Included in those going on the trip will be Bro. Chip’s wife, Martha, and their older daughter, Jennifer and her husband. Again, pray for lives of those going to be touched and for lives of those to whom they minister to be forever changed.

Pray for the mission team from Parkway Baptist Church in McKinney, Texas as they minister to the Roma in Romania this week.

Pray for a search committee from Georgia as they are in Texas this weekend to consider a candidate for worship leader. Our daughter-in-law, Becki, is a member of this team that flew from Georgia yesterday and will fly back home later today.

Don’t forget to pray for Gary Schiro, husband of Peggy Hendry Schiro of Chesbrough. Gary will have a heart valve replacement in the morning at North Oaks.

Pray for the students who attended summer LEAP remediation and who will be testing this week.

The Hatchels and others have safely returned from their Annual General Meeting (AGM). Thank God for the opportunities provided by volunteers from the States who so freely gave of themselves to minister to the needs of our missionaries and MK’s. Jennie always tells me of he Lottie Moon Christmas Offering given at the meeting. I’ll report that later.

Today is Adopt an Annuitant Sunday in Southern Baptist Churches. Donations will be accepted to assist retired ministers and their wives or widows who are having financial needs.

There’s a number of people undergoing tests and treatment for cancer. Please continue to remember each of them daily even when I do not list each one individually.

 

 

Jason Tate “Bully” Schwartz
(October 1, 1911 – June 18, 2008)

Died at 12:05 p.m. on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at St. Helena Parish Nursing Home in Greensburg. He was a native of Kentwood and a resident of Greensburg. Age 96 years. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Kentwood and Kentwood Masonic Lodge. He is survived by his son, James Charles Schwartz, Sr. and wife, Ruby, Kentwood; daughter, Lois “Chee Chee” Dunn and husband, Bubba, Greensburg; grandchildren, Sherry Dunn Schivers and husband, Robert, Greensburg, Brenda Dunn Miller and husband, Randy, Roseland, Maj. James Charles Schwartz, Jr. and wife, Maryanna, Ft. Hood, TX, Michael Collins Schwartz and wife, Sarah, Hammond, Christopher L. Dunn and wife, Kelly, Metairie, Timothy Tate Schwartz and wife, Sharon, Hammond, Paul Scott Schwartz, Kentwood, Carl Blades, Jr. Corpus Christi, TX, Susan Henry, Dallas, TX, Alan Blades, Palmdale, CA, Daniel Blades, Los Angeles, CA, Carolyn Blades, San Bernardino, CA, Gerry Needham Davis, Baker, and Janice Needham Westbrook, Zachary; numerous great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. He was greeted in heaven by his first wife, Myrtle Birch Schwartz and second wife, Inez Greener Schwartz; parents, Charles P. and Lois Tate Schwartz; 2 brothers, Rukins Schwartz and C. P. Schwartz, Jr.; 2 sisters, Eupora Hutchinson and Ora Lee Nelson; great-granddaughter, Breanne Miller. Visitation will be at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Monday and from 8 a.m. until religious services at 10 a.m. on Tuesday. Interment will follow in the Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood.


Betty Lambert
(October 23, 1922 – June 19, 2008)

Died at 5:24 p.m. on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at Belle Maison Nursing Home in Hammond. She was a native and resident of Amite. Age 85 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 10 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Monday. Interment Mulberry Street Cemetery, Amite. She is survived by her 5 nieces, Clinton Sue Driscoll and husband, John, Covington, Becky Jelpi and husband, Keith, Metairie, Kitty Beaumier and husband, Ken, Alabama, Kathy Vaughn, Ponchatoula and Lydia Benson, New Orleans; 6 great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Delma Lambert; 3 brothers, Clinton, Maxwell and Donald Earl Gill; a sister, Mary Evelyn Gill Glosson; parents, Hinson Gill and Geneiva Gill Ricks.

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…”

(Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor


THE MOST DRAMATIC moment in human history makes for odd drama…

The hero is center-stage yet silent. His script is only seven lines long, some whispered, some groaned through gritted teeth. He gestures simply and seldom. He is still, pinned as it were to a prop from which neither the audience nor the other actors can easily unfasten their eyes. The stage is stark, the scenery sparse, the props peculiar — hammer, spikes, spear, dice. The action is minimal at best, at worst awkward. The lighting is at first too bright, then too night.

Other actors take the stage. Soldiers hammer and gamble, making light of the weighty moment. Bystanders assuage their boredom with blasphemy. Priests parrot their vain victory, ignorant of the irony: “If you come down, we will believe.” Followers weep and wonder, only a few and from afar. The rest, obvious in their absence, rest off-stage. Ultimately our eyes are drawn back to the main character, still still, and we listen to the seven lines and the sudden silence.

This old drama makes for odd drama. And we find ourselves left wondering less about the hero than ourselves. Where will we stand on the stage, with the deriders or the disciples? Will we stand fearfully but faithfully with the women or will we slip off to the wings unable to see or be seen? And what will we say when the next line is ours?

And if we should decide not to try out for this play, not to take part in this odd, old drama, it’s too late. By coming to this table we have already accepted a role, we have already joined the cast, we have already taken the stage. This meal is which we are invited reminds us that we are privileged to play a part, a part in the most dramatic moment in human history, in the great drama of redemption. (J. Lee Magness)

“And when they had mocked Him,

they took the purple off Him,

put His own clothes on Him,

and led Him out to crucify Him.”

Mark 15:20

 

That’s a reminder we need to hear.

Have a great Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

Saturday

“Continue earnestly in prayer,

being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.”

~Colossians 4:2~

 

 

Thank-you for praying for the Hatchels as they attended AGM and traveled to and from the meeting. They are safely back at home.

LAST FRONTIER. On a recent trip to the countryside, it was quite an adventure for a group of young female teachers to see where their university students really live. Here’s what these workers among this Last Frontier people group had to say: “The place we went was basic, to say the least. There was no electricity, no bathrooms, no showers, and no running water. We even slept outside under a mosquito net. Amid such tremendous poverty, it was incredible to see how much the villagers would spend and sacrifice to make offerings to the spirits. But the poverty wasn’t what was so disheartening about that place; it was the darkness. It seems like the city where we work has a way of disguising the lostness of our people, but in the countryside, it was much more evident.” Pray that those who live in such darkness and fear will hear about the Light of the world. Pray that every village in this country will have a gospel witness.

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Friday, June 20, 2008

My word “shall not return to Me void,

But it shall accomplish what I please.”

~Isaiah 55:11a, NKJV~

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, thanking the Lord with you for His Word.

Workers in Berlin are rejoicing over a man who received a Bible in the mail. Included was an invitation to a Bible study in an immigrant neighborhood of Berlin. He was thrilled that there was a group that met and spoke his mother tongue. Please pray that this man who is seeking will continue to come and learn about Jesus Christ.

J signed up for a Bible raffle during an outreach event in Buenos Aires in late 2007. Over the months, he has developed a friendship with missionary Jason Frealy, and recently he prayed a prayer of forgiveness. This business owner is a man of influence, with many friends, employees and family members. Please pray for J’s new faith, and pray for his influence to bring others to the same saving faith.

In Senegal, a volunteer team gave a Bible to a young girl. The next day, she came back and told them she did not know how to use the Bible because she never had one before. The volunteers showed her how to study God’s Word. They now ask you to intercede for this young girl as the Holy Spirit guides her. Pray that she will trust Jesus as Savior.

There are those in Algeria who have done everything in their power to limit the spread of the gospel. However, there are also many brothers and sisters who are continuing to work despite the resistance. Workers write: “When asked how we could help them continue the work, they replied that they needed more Bibles. … Ask God to find a way for these Bibles to reach the ones who truly need to read the truth of God.”

* Please pray for seekers to accept Jesus.

* Intercede for those boldly distributing Bibles, no matter the risk.

* Thank the Lord that His word will not return void.


Deacon Hospital Ministry – June 22-28

  • Jimmy Williams
  • James Rimes

Nursery Volunteers – June 22

  • Nancy Stokes
  • Scott & Kristi Womack

Senior Adult Trip to Gatlinburg, TN

  • “Julilee Conference”
  • September 29-October 4
  • Call the church office – 985-229-8111

Beth Moore Living Proof Live Simulcast 2008

  • August 1-2,, 2008 @ FBC, Kentwood
  • Tickets: $25.00 @ FBC, Kentwood

CAN THIS MESS BE FIXED?

Customer: “I got this problem. You people sent me this install
disk, and now my A: drive won’t work.”

Tech Support: “Your A: drive won’t work?”

Customer: “That’s what I said. You sent me a bad disk, it got stuck
in my drive, now it won’t work at all.”

Tech Support: “Did it not install properly? What kind of error
messages did you get?”

Customer: “I didn’t get any error message. The disk got stuck in
the drive and wouldn’t come out. So I got these pliers and tried
to get it out. That didn’t work either.”

Tech Support: “You did what, sir?”

Customer: “I got these pliers, and tried to get the disk out, but it
wouldn’t budge. I just ended up cracking the plastic stuff a
bit.”

Tech Support: “I don’t understand sir, did you push the eject
button?”

Customer: “No, so then I got a stick of butter and melted it and
used a turkey baster and put the butter in the drive, around the
disk, and that got it loose. I can’t believe you would send me a
disk that was broken and defective.”

Tech Support: “Let me get this clear. You put melted butter in
your A: drive and used pliers to pull the disk out?”

At this point, he put the call on the speaker phone and motioned at the other techs to listen in.

Tech Support: “Just so I am absolutely clear on this, can you repeat
what you just said?”

Customer: “I said I put butter in my A: drive to get your disk out,
then I had to use pliers to pull it out.”

Tech Support: “Did you push that little button that was sticking
out when the disk was in the drive, you know, the thing called the
disk eject button?”

– Silence –

Tech Support: “Sir?”

Customer: “Yes.”

Tech Support: “Sir, did you push the eject button?”

Customer: “No, but you people are going to fix my computer, or I am
going to sue you for breaking my computer.”

Tech Support: “Let me get this straight. You are going to sue our
company because you put the disk in the A: drive, didn’t follow
the instructions we sent you, didn’t actually seek professional
advice, didn’t consult your user’s manual on how to use your
computer properly, instead proceeding to pour butter into the
drive and physically rip the disk out?”

Customer: “Ummmm.”

Tech Support: “Do you really think you stand a chance, since we do
record every call and have it on tape?”

Customer: (now rather humbled) “But you’re supposed to help!”

Tech Support: “I am sorry sir, but there is nothing we can do for
you. Have a nice day.”

Sounds like the mess we sometimes make of our lives. We don’t consult God’s “instruction manual” (the Bible), we don’t call for assistance (pray), we just try to “fix” the problems in our lives by ourselves and in the process do some pretty stupid things.

But there’s one big difference. When we finally reach the point where we realize we’ve made a mess and we humble ourselves in the presence of God, He doesn’t say, “There’s nothing I can do for you.” Rather, He stands ready to help.

“….Be clothed with humility, for ‘God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.’ Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” (I Peter 5:5b-7)

Made a mess of something lately? The “tech support” line is open and ready to take your call.

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina


I’m so thankful that heavenly tech support line is aways working! What about you?

Anna Lee

Wednesday

For the grace of God …

teaches us to say “No”

to ungodliness and worldly passions,

and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives.

~Titus 2:11-12 (NIV) ~

Marvelous Mondays in July

  • 7 P.M. each Monday
  • Theme: “Building on the Firm Foundation”
  • Former staff members leading worship services
  • Nursery provided for each service
  • Worship Guests
    • July 7th – Keith Rhodes and Chris Wales
    • July 14 – Bobby Eads and Tim Daniels
    • July 21 – J.P. Miles & Dennis Walker
    • July 28 – Steve Echols and Ronnie Nielson

LAST FRONTIER. People in a Last Frontier people group are going through a hard time, as there is lack of food right now. It is a difficult period of time for people to survive, because there is no food before the new crop is harvested. A worker has plans to start a business of making soy milk to feed them. Ask the Father to provide whatever is needed to make this project successful. The worker wants to start feeding 900 people and then increase that to 1,300 people. He asks you to join him in requesting for our Provider to provide that all he needs to keep the business going. Also pray for people to begin to know the Lord through this act of love.

AIDS. Pray for the hundreds of thousands of unemployed and underemployed people of Durban, South Africa, as well as the tens of thousands who are living with AIDS and related illnesses that are making them physically unable to work regularly. As food and fuel prices continue to rise, single-parent families and those led by teenagers who are children themselves suffer the most. Pray that churches and Christians here will have a vision, a way, and a will to minister to those in need. http://www.imb.org/AIDS/

MUSLIMS: PRAYING BEYOND THE WALL. Praise the Lord for His unfathomable love which stubbornly pursues us when we are lost in sin, deceived by the Satan and even reject His love. Last year, a South Asian Muslim couple who had believed were separated when the wife renounced her faith in Christ. Sometime later, she had a dream of a man in white, warning her that the path she had chosen was dangerous, that she was “on the wrong path”. Later in tears she fearfully admitted she had made a mistake and said that she wanted to be on the right path again. However, as her internal struggle raged she once again lapsed into a stubborn refusal to surrender herself completely to the Lord. God did not give up on her. Believers continued to pray in faith and last month she made a public profession of faith in Christ. She and her husband have been reunited and have renewed their vows. Pray that they will rebuild their marriage and ministry on Jesus Christ, the only firm foundation!

Joseph Anthony “Joe” Ruffino

After a five-year battle with colon and liver cancer, he lost the battle on Tuesday, June 17, 2008, at 4:05 a.m. at his home surrounded by his family. He was a native of Amite and a resident of Baton Rouge for 55 years. He was 79 years young, hoping to live to the age of 97 like his mom, Louise Ruffino. He was born on July 12, 1928. He was a retired welder from Delta Southern with 35 years of service. He later opened his own shop where he made barbeque pits, truck racks, wood racks and garbage can carriers. He really loved his work and continued that work for 20 years. He leaves behind his loving and devoted wife of 58‰ years who didn’t leave his side or stop caring for him, Gwen Carson Ruffino; daughter, Jo Ann Ruffino DiVincenti and son-in-law, Sam W. DiVincenti Sr.; two grandchildren, Stacy Lynn DiVincenti and Sammy W. DiVincenti Jr.; and a great-granddaughter, Karlee Marie DiVincenti, all of Baton Rouge; sister, Mary Checchin, of McHenry, Ill.; three brothers, Louis S. Ruffino II, of Baton Rouge, and Sam Ruffino and Nunzio Ruffino, both of Amite; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis Ruffino Sr. and Louise Inzinna Ruffino, who were both of Sicily, Italy; five sisters, Rose Ruffino, Pamelia Alack, Lucy Costanza, Josie Burrell and Stella Terracina; and two brothers, John Ruffino and Tony Ruffino. Visiting will be at Greenoaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Blvd., on Wednesday, June 18, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and in the chapel Thursday from 9 a.m. until religious service at 10 a.m. Interment in Greenoaks Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Louis John Ruffino, Louis Alack, Salvador Costanza, Anthony Ruffino, Louis Joseph Ruffino, Louis S. Ruffino III, Sal Ruffino and Robert G. Ruffino. The family would like to thank Dr. J. Philip Boudreaux and Dr. Yi Zarn Wang at Ochsner of Kenner and the staff of the intensive care unit of Ochsner Medical Center, where he stayed for 52 days; Dr. Fredric Billings and Sandra Knight and all of their caring staff at Mary Bird Perkins, along with the staff of St. Joseph’s Hospice. Special thanks to Rob Frazier for all his help. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, 4950 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 or St. Joseph’s Hospice, 8923 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70810.

 

KneEmail

“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
IN RECENT YEARS, a number of psychologists and sociologists have joined the chorus of religious and political opponents in warning about the impact of pervasive pornography…

They argue that porn is transforming sexuality and relationships — for the worse. Experts say men who frequently view porn may develop unrealistic expectations of women’s appearance and behavior, and have difficulty forming and sustaining relationships and feeling sexually satisfied. Fueled by a combination of access, anonymity and affordability, online porn has catapulted overall pornography consumption — bringing in new viewers, encouraging more use from existing fans and escalating consumers from soft-core to harder-core material. Cyberporn is even giving rise to a new form of sexual compulsiveness. According to Alvin Cooper, who conducts seminars on cybersex addiction, 15% of online-porn habitues develop sexual behavior that disrupts their lives. “The internet is the crack cocaine of sexual addiction,” says Jennifer Schneider, co-author of Cybersex Exposed: Simple Fantasy or Obsession? (Tim McLaughlin)

“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true,

whatever things are noble,

whatever things are just,

whatever things are pure,

whatever things are lovely,

whatever things are of good report,

if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy –

meditate on these things.”

~Philippians 4:8; cf. 2 Tim. 2:2~

Have a great “hump day”!

Anna Lee