Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Today, I would like to share that I have been researching, planning, and making some Operation Christmas Child gifts to be shared at the end of 2018. Today, I would like to give you, your church, your organization, your class, etc. some ideas.

If you are collecting some each month, during February it is suggested you purchase hair fixings, sunglasses, necklaces, bracelets, and other accessories.

I have also been learning about packing shoeboxes according to a theme. Some of the suggested themes are:

Dolls
Cartoon characters
Firetruck
Cars
Trucks
Tractors
Trains
Airplanes
Butterflies
Ladybugs
Horses
Cows
Giraffes
Dogs
Cats
Baseball
Soccer
Basketball
Carpentry
Hello Kitty
Teddy bears
Beach
Mountains
Fishing
Flowers
Colors
- Red
- Pink
- Silver
- Blue
- Fuscia
- Purple
- Teal
States
Teams

I also have been working on projects my mission kids at church can do. I love crafts, so this is fun for me. There are also crafts that require special talents such as crochet or sewing.

I have discovered some websites and some Facebook groups that give me ideas. Do a little research, There is something out there for everyone!

I also learned many people have stashes of yarn, fabric, beads, etc. they can work with or share. What is in the closet or drawer you haven’t opened lately? Can you use it? Would now be a good time to make it available for someone else to use?

Read the Bible

Exodus 29-30
Psalm 15
Matthew 25

Go back and read the verse at the top of the post. What changes do you need to make today?

Today is the day to make advance plans for getting to church tomorrow. I remember that Daddy polished shoes on Saturdays and set them out for Sunday mornings. What do you need to do?

Anna Lee

Thursday

He gives strength to the weary

and increases the power of the weak.

~Isaiah 40:29~

Mike Strickland of Osyka is a little better. He’s still in the McComb hospital. Keep him and his family in your prayers.

Cheryl Dillon‘s retina repair was more difficult than expected, but hopefully will be fine. She will be going through the coming days with her head face-down twenty-four hours a day for a while. Please remember her in your prayers.

Missionary Prayer Needs

Central Asian Peoples

“The greatest missionary of all is the Bible in a person’s own language” (Cameron Townsend, founder of Wycliffe, SIL). A minority Central Asian man told a majority culture woman that he had discovered a Bible reading website and had been secretly reading for some time. Praise God that with only the Bible and no other believers around, he had made a decision to put his faith in Jesus!

Porto Alegre, Brazil

(POR-toh Ah-LEG-ray) – Please pray for rest and renewal for the family of missionaries Joel and Tamara Whitenton while they are on stateside assignment. Pray that they will connect with those in the United States who will be faithful intercessors and partners in the work in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Pray that family time will be edifying and that they will find deep rest.

Pearl People of East Asia

Several months ago, James* became very depressed and laid in bed all day. Finally, after a rather violent outburst, his parents sent him to a mental hospital. After being there for 20 days, his condition worsened. He became unresponsive to others and just sat on his bed, rocking back and forth. The doctors eventually released him to his parents’ care. About this time, Sarah*, a young woman on a volunteer team, felt led to visit James and his mother. She wanted to share her story with them because she had also struggled with depression. During her visit, James wouldn’t listen and walked out; however, Sarah continued to share her testimony with James’ mother of how God had helped her. She encouraged his mother to read the Bible out loud with James each day. She also left cards containing Bible verses in their language for them to read daily. After just a couple of days, James’ mother called to say that he was much better and they’d been reading the Bible together. Praise the Lord that now both have accepted Christ and are attending church regularly! James is back at work, and his mother is full of joy. She can’t thank God enough for healing her son. Praise God for the power of his Word! Ask him to provide a brother to disciple James and encourage him one on one. Pray for James’ mother to continue growing deeper in her faith and for his father to come to know Jesus. (*names changed)

European Peoples

“Europe is known to be an exciting tourist destination, full of rich history and landmarks. There are castles, bell towers, cathedrals, and museums across the continent. However, looking beyond the landmarks, what do we see? As Baptist representatives live and work daily among Europeans, we see a lack of hope. Especially during January and other winter months, the skies are gray and the Christmas markets have disappeared; people return to daily routines of life, and most never even think about God. Yes, it is cold, dreary, and in some places, very wet. There is a depressive atmosphere that pervades and is especially noted in conversations that reveal no hope for the future. The prayer emphases this year in the European peoples affinity group is: ‘For an Awakening Spirit! (Across Europe and Europeans).’ Please join us in prayer as we share the gospel, and ask the Lord for an awakening spirit to spread across Europe. In Romans 13:11-12 (NASB), Paul says: ‘Do this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for now salvation is nearer to us than when we believed. The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.’ Pray for Baptist representatives to bear the armor of light as we share the gospel with Europeans so that their lives will become filled with the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ, our Lord.”

Patricia Wilson Bradshaw

May 30, 1954 – January 20, 2018
Born in Dallas, Texas
Resided in Springfield, Virginia

(Lived in Osyka)

Patricia (Patti) Wilson Bradshaw (63) passed away on 20 January 2018 at her home in Springfield Virginia.

Patti was born in Dallas, Texas to Flint and Dell Wilson. She spent her childhood days in Osyka Mississippi, and graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University with a degree in Microbiology and laboratory Technology. She started her professional career at MD Anderson in Houston and after 2 years there she volunteered for the Baptist foreign medical mission in Pusan, Korea.

On 1 April 1981, she entered the United States Air Force as a Biomedical Science Core Officer and was commissioned as a captain and immediately outranked both her brothers serving in the Air Force at the time. She was very proud of that accomplishment and never let her brothers forget she outranked them! Patti spent 9.5 years in the air force as a medical technology laboratory officer and staff officer. She had assignments to Maxwell AFB, Alabama, Myrtle Beach AFB, South Carolina, Torrejon AFB in Spain and Brooks AFB in Texas where she met her husband Patrick Bradshaw.

They married 20 Oct 1990. Patti left active duty in 1991 and was a stay at home mom. She had 3 children, Michael, Kathleen and Eilise, all the focus of her life.

In 2004 (after a lengthy diagnostic process), Patti was diagnosed with Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma and was told she had anywhere from 6 months to 18 months to live. Patti was never one to “give up” and with the support of her family, the Church, the local community, tremendous medical availability, and internal resolve, Patti lived to see her youngest daughter enter college, her oldest daughter join the Army and marry Stewart Kirk on 19 January 2018, and her son become an accomplished cellist and make significant progress towards earning a college degree.

Patti was a convert to Catholicism, studied the doctrine of the Catholic Church and lived her faith with gusto and fervor. She was a model of how to live against odds and seldom if ever complained of her specific maladies. She is survived by her husband Patrick Bradshaw, 3 children Michael, Kathleen and Eilise, Step daughter Jennifer Trimble, Brother Marc Wilson, David Ott Wilson, (the 2 Air Force members Patti outranked) and her sister Elizabeth Roberts.

We love you and miss you dearly Patti. May you rest in peace and let perpetual light shine upon you!

Debra Rene’ Blades Michael

November 05, 1963 – January 21, 2018

Debbie passed away Sunday, January 21, 2018 in Blackwell, Oklahoma, while traveling to her home in Deadwood, South Dakota, after a 20 years battle with multiple Sclerosis. She was born November 5, 1963 in Amite, LA to J.C. and Alice Lebo Blades. A true country girl at heart, she loved telling people we met across the country that she was raised in the piney woods of Greensburg, LA and that on the 8th day, God created St. Helena Parish. She was a 1982 graduate of Oak Forest Academy, a graduate of Lockworks Academy and held counseling licenses in South Dakota and Minnesota. During the last 7 years, Debbie and Matt divided their time between Amite and their home in South Dakota. Together they traveled throughout America, seeking out new places off the beaten path and visited 42 states. Their travels together brought them across North America, Central America and Europe. She never once allowed her illness to break her spirit or slow her down. Sadly, shortly after her mother’s death in April 2017, the Multiple Sclerosis began taking its toll at a rapid pace. Debbie left this life doing exactly what she loved, being on the open road with Matt, chasing the sun. She is survived by her husband, Matthew Michael; her daughter, Chloe Jane Whiddon, Natchitoches LA; father, J.C. Blades, Amite; 2 step sons, Nicholas Michael, Church Point, LA and Alex Michael, Church Point, LA; step daughter, Lacey Kent, Fluker, LA; and her uncles, Paul Blades, Saucier, MS and Albert Lebo, Mt. Hermon. Preceded in death by her son, Clinton Levi Freeman; and her mother, Alice Lebo Blades. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 PM until 9 PM on Sunday and from 11 AM until religious services at 1 PM Monday, January 29, 2018. Services conducted by Rev. Darryl Miller. Interment Greensburg Cemetery, Greensburg. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation per Debbie’s request. The family would like to thank all Debbie’s friends from Oak Forest Academy that were there for her and helped out during this time For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Lanasue Irene Horne Westmoreland Fairburn

Lanasue Irene Horne Westmoreland Fairburn passed away January 13, 2018 at St. Francisville Country Manor at the age of 68.

She is survived by daughter Lisa Westmoreland Deer and husband Mark Deer of Hammond, LA, grandsons Jared and Bradley Jenkins of Florida, brother Terry Horne of Walker, 2 sister-In-Laws Frances Parham Horne and Judy Larkin Horne, numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by parents Audrey Mae Lea Crawford and Woodrow Wilson Horne, Sr., brother Woodrow Wilson Horne Jr., brother Danny Ray Horne, grandparents Bertha Irene White Lea and Festus Marion Lea ,Aunt Elsie Lea Blades, Uncle Bernell Lea And husband Jerome Fairburn.

Lanasue will never be forgotten and will always remain in the hearts of those who loved her dearly.

Read the Bible

Exodus 13-14
Psalm 11
Matthew 21

Bible Study

Friday morning at 10
Fellowship Hall of FBC, Kentwood
Ezekiel

Many people are still dealing with bad colds, coughs, or the flu. Pray for good recovery for them.

Anna Lee

Tuesday

For I know the plans I have for you,”

declares the LORD,

“plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

plans to give you hope and a future.

~Jeremiah 29:11~

Lisa Piner asked for prayer for a young child, Kyle Easley, son of Kristin and David Easley. Baby Kyle is hospitalized at Our Lady of the Lake with RSV. He’s a little better, but needs our continuing prayers.

James Madison Cox

December 10, 1929 – January 03, 2018

James Madison Cox, 88, passed away Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at Tangi Pines Nursing Center in Amite, Louisiana. James was born December 10, 1929 to Albert Coy and Myrtle Lee (Childers) Cox in Orlando, Florida, the middle of five children. He graduated from Apopka High School in 1947.

After graduation, James began a career in retail, working at Woolworth’s in Miami, Florida, where he met his wife, Mary Jane Metz. They were married July 20, 1950.

James continued his career in retail becoming store manager for McCrory’s in Florida and South Carolina and then TG&Y stores in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Florida. He rose to district manager and eventually moved to Oklahoma City where he became a Vice President for TG&Y stores.

After retirement from TG&Y, James and Mary Jane settled in Baker, Louisiana and opened a craft store. He eventually wrote a book about his childhood which propelled him into a new career teaching Life Writing in the Baton Rouge area.
James was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Jane and his two brothers, Robert Cox and William Cox. He is survived by his daughters, Kandy (Cox) Ray and Jackie (Cox) Mull; sisters, Carolyn (Cox) Moon and Nancy (Cox) Duzyk; grandsons, Daryl Ray, Jr., Gerald Ray and James Russell Mull, Sr.; four great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.

No services will be held and in lieu of flowers, the family encourages anyone who wishes to remember James to donate to the American Cancer Society in his name.

Bobby Oneal Cutrer, Sr.

August 19, 1930 – January 14, 2018

A resident of Kentwood passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2018 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. He was born August 19, 1930 in Pike County, MS and was 87 years of age. He was a U. S. Navy Veteran and a member of Tangipahoa Baptist Church. He is survived by 2 sons, Bobby Oneal Cutrer, Jr. and wife, Dorothy, Kentwood and Robert Earl Cutrer and wife, Ramona, Lake Jackson, TX; 4 grandchildren, Laura Beck and husband, Ed, Debbie Tarver, Robert McGuire, Jr. and Robby Cutrer and wife, Katie; sister, Katherine Sims, Grand Isle. Preceded in death by parents, Fleet and Maeola Bond Cutrer; brother, Roger Cutrer. Visitation at Tangipahoa Baptist Church from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Tuesday and from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 17, 2018. Services conducted by Rev. Greg Stewart. Interment Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Larry Gene Edwards

March 06, 1946 – January 14, 2018

A resident of Kentwood passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2018 at Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center in McComb, MS. He was born March 6, 1946 in Amite and was 71 years of age. He is survived by wife of 50 years, Brenda Falgout Edwards; children, Larry Edwards, Jr. and wife, Delisa, Lynda Edwards Newman and husband, Reese, Keith Edwards and wife, Lynette, and Kelly Edwards Rainey and husband, Marcus; grandchildren, Cody Edwards and wife, Hayley, Kyle and Courtney Edwards, Shay and Cheyenne Warren, Jacob Newman and wife, Haylea, and Casey Newman, Allison, Russell and Elizabeth Edwards, Miranda and Mackenna Rainey; great-grandchildren, Baylor Newman and Ryleigh Edwards; sister, Nan Edwards Welch and husband, Johnny; brother, Joey Edwards; numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by parents, Charles Lewis Edwards, Sr. and Yuvonne Bond Edwards; siblings, James Russell “Rusty” Edwards, Charles Lewis Edwards, Jr., Michael Walter Edwards, Jackie Lynn Edwards Stilley, and Donald Earl Edwards. Visitation at Mt. Nebo Baptist Church from 9 a.m. until religious services at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, January 17, 2018. Services conducted by Bro. Larry Blades, Bro. Randel Camardelle, and Dr. Danny Smith. Interment Twin Oaks Cemetery, Wilmer. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

One more obituary: Leslie Bethel, formerly of Kentwood and Roseland, passed away. Her cousin said she was thankful to have seen Leslie Saturday night for a birthday celebration. I’ll post an obituary when one becomes available.

We had a very good WMU meeting yesterday honoring three ladies who had been active in WMU who were “called home” during 2017. Dr. Ernest Graham presented a good message about how family influences our love of missions and serving God.

Sunday, I was pleased when two ladies handed me calendars for the inmates at the Tangipahoa Parish Jail. I hope you have to extra calendars to share too. If not, they are easily available and probably reduced in price by now. The calendars should have staples, not spiral rings. Keep you eyes open for 2018 calendars!

Read the Bible

Genesis 45-47
Psalm 7
Matthew 14

Third Thursday Gathering at the Cabin – cancelled for this week!

Stay warm and dry. Check on someone who might need some help.

Anna Lee

Sunday

“That is why we never give up.

Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day.

For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long.

Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!”

~2 Corinthians 4:16-17 NLT~

Update on Jimmy Alford: Jimmy had three or four hard days following his procedure Monday, but he is now feeling much better. Keep praying for him and his family.

Sheldon Leon Dykes

February 17, 1965 – January 12, 2018

Sheldon Leon Dykes was born February 17, 1965. He went home to be with the Lord on Friday, January 12, 2018. Sheldon succumbed to his brief battle with lung cancer at North Oaks Hospital in Hammond, Louisiana, surrounded by those that loved him most. He was survived by daughters, Samantha (Yancy) Hughes, Shelby (Richie) Magee of Kentwood, La; Emily Dykes (fiancé, Chance Travis) of Calhoun, La; and their mother Anna Givens Hodges of Kentwood, La; Grandchildren Joshua and Charlie Hughes, and Brayden Magee; Mother, Nellie (Rodney) Perryman; siblings Donald, Walter, Betty, Libby, Raymond, Denell, Mark and Kim; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Clyde Dykes. Sheldon was a nurse by trade and worked in the health care field for over 30 years. He was currently serving as the Administrator of Kentwood Manor Nursing Home. He proudly served the community at this facility for more than 15 years in various roles. He was a pillar of strength and love for his family and all of those who knew him. He will be greatly missed. A memorial service to honor and celebrate his life will be held at McKneely Funeral Home in Kentwood, Louisiana on Saturday, January 20th from 10-11 am. Visitation with the family before the service will be held from 9:00 to 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, please honor Sheldon by making donations to Kentwood Manor Nursing Home.

Read the Bible

Genesis 43-44
Proverbs 6
Matthew 12

Missions poster – I put eight new “lights” on the poster Friday morning. I hope you will notice the progress we are making.

I hope all of you made it through the low temperatures last night without any trouble. Tonight won’t be so bad, but then the very low temperatures will be back. Take care. Keep warm!

Do you want to be blessed? Make a few visits to senior adults who are homebound. You will be greatly blessed. Your visit will be the highlight of their day!

Anna Lee

Saturday

Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.

They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

~Lamentations 3:22-23~

Ora Lee Wilson continues to have a cough and a collapsed lung. Pray for her as she sees another doctor next week.

Mike Strickland continues to be about the same in Jackson, MS. As you pray for him, pray for Colleen as she stays by his side.

David and I saw and talked with these families Sunday and never expected the troubles on the hearts of these friends today. Please pray for them.

It may be old news to many of you, but I just learned yesterday about a house fire totally destroyed Bruce and Melissa K. Neal‘s home in Fluker. Pray for them as they begin the process of moving on to rebuilding.
This morning Will Ricks shared that Mrs. Patsy Istre of Amite passed away.

There are others who are having medical problems. Pray for those of whom you are aware.

Praying in vital, but I have always been taught to “put feet to my prayers”. Some of the ways you can do this are:

Telephone calls
Short visits
Food
Funds
Transportation
Cards
Household or yard maintainance
Encouragement though practical gifts
Being a friend!!!

Read the Bible

Genesis 19-22
Psalm 3
Matthew 5

Baptist Press – http://bpnews.net

Lottie Moon Offering for International Missions

Support our missionaries who are there representing us.
Money is still being collected at FBC
100% of money given goes directly to the mission field.
Help more people have Bibles and learn about Jesus

Soft-cover/paper-bound Bibles are continuing to be collected for the prisoners at the Tangipahoa Parish Jail. The Bibles can be new or used. A plastic note is located near the front door of the church for easy drop-off. We are the main supply source for this ministry. Let’s not fail to minister to the constantly changing population there.

The next associational WMU meeting will be Monday, January 15 at East Fork Baptist Church. We will honor the memories of ladies from our churches who worked in missions in our individual churches who passed away during 2017. There will be a leadership meeting at 9:00, followed by the meeting at 10:00. We will conclude our morning with a potluck lunch. Please pass the word to other churches, so we can be an encouragement to them.

Operation Christmas Child

I am amazed and thankful for all the participation that enabled us to “FILL” 350 shoeboxes last year. I’m thankful that we were able to share with 350 children who live in some of the poorest areas of our world.
I’m already looking ahead to what we can do in 2018. I’m thinking of continuing to support this great ministry, but making a few changes in how we are going to do it this year. I’ll be letting you in on our plans in the next couple months.
Until then, I have two requests
- Save all your shoeboxes as you get new shoes.
- Begin to save your funds to pack boxes with your family.
- Pray for the children who received “shoeboxes” this year that they will learn about Jesus and accept HIm in their hearts. It is reported that one “shoebox” “opens the door” to seven people. God surely multiplies our efforts with these gifts.
- Save money to make purchases for boys and girls ages five through fourteen.
- Begin to pick up items you find in stores, especially if you find good sale prices.
- Plan to be blessed in proportion to how you bless others!

We serve a mighty God who can and will use us in so many ways if we make ourselves available!

Anna Lee

Friday

Wash and make yourselves clean.

Take your evil deeds out of my sight;

stop doing wrong.

Learn to do right;

seek justice.

Defend the oppressed.

Take up the cause of the fatherless;

plead the case of the widow.

~Isaiah 1:16-17 (NIV)~

Miss Fay Shoemaker greatly enjoyed her going away party. Pray for her as she makes final preparations for her new life. Next week, she will be making some big changes.

Gloria Gill is still having problems with A-fib. Her doctor is still considering a pacemaker, but is watching for effects of new medication. Please continue to pray.

Peter Pedeaux

Facebook post written by Kathy Pedeaux and shared by my sister and niece.

We found him this morning about 9 am. When we found him we realized he had already left this world and is now with Jesus where he is safe, warm, and full of great joy.

If you knew Peter you would know how anointed he was in the area of compassion. He would not want us to be sad, because for Peter, to be in God’s presence was his favorite place. And that is where he will be forever.

However, we will be a people with completely broken hearts for a while because of the great gift that has been lost. But we will see him again!

This is our hope and surety as those who are in Christ. Honestly, I don’t know how anyone comes through a tragedy like this without a real relationship with Jesus.

So, if you don’t know Jesus, ask him into your heart tonight and experience a joy that you have never known. He is real, and heaven is real! This would make Peter so happy.

Once again, thank you to all of our new hero’s out there, many of which we do not even know. Unbelievable. You sacrificed time, money, resources, time with your families, and allowed yourself to experience our suffering. There is no greater gift that you could give when you laid down your lives for Our Precious Peter.

Love to all. I pray that you will be blessed and that you will reap all the love that you have sown into our family.

The Friday morning Bible study will meet this morning at 10 A.M. at FBC, Kentwood. You are invited to attend. We will be physically warm and warm in heart!

Read the Bible

Genesis 15-18
Proverbs 2
Matthew 4
I realized last night that the first day we were to focus on our Creator. This plan gives you a day to focus on something in particular each week. I suppose that would also be a good way to “catch-up” on any lost readings.

If you would like to visit/attend a FBC Sunday School class, you may contact me for information about classes or you can contact the church office or check out the church web-site. We have classes for children and youth of various ages and multiple adult classes you might want to pick from. Come, visit around until you find “your spot”.

I was able to read the last chapter of Lottie Moon to my children in the missions class Wednesday night. She had an interesting life serving as a missionary in China. She left a legacy in our missionary work and was honored when the annual offering for international missions was named in her honor. The first offering was for missionaries in China only. Now, we can send many more missionaries around the world because of the Lottie Moon Offering. You can support this massive effort by giving at any Southern Baptist Church.

Stay warm. I think we will have a short break before we get another cold time. Get out while it is warmer. Stock up for the next round of cold weather. Ask about helping someone to prepare for the coming cold.

Anna Lee

Thursday

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

And what does the LORD require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

~Micah 6:8 (NIV)~

There are still many people sick. Some have short-term illnesses, but some have long-term issues. I’ve listed many. Keep praying form those that you are aware of.

Today, I want to say many people have passed away recently. It is our responsibility to pray for those left behind. Many of their concerns and heartaches are just beginning. Today, let’s pray for the families and friends of those whose earthly lives have been completed. Let’s focus on doing something for those who are left to continue living. I’ll post three of the latest deaths. You can look back at past post to see other deaths. You may also know of some I posted recently. This will be the first Christmas without their loved one for some families. Other families have already had the first Christmas, but are still having a difficult time.

Beverly L. Bardwell

Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on April 18, 1955

Departed on January 1, 2018 and resided in Westfield, Indiana

Beverly L. Bardwell, age 62 went to be with the Lord on Monday, January 1, 2018 at 1:58 pm. Beverly was born on April 18, 1955 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She grew up in Greensburg, LA and lived in multiple states through her life although she considered Louisiana home and Indiana a second home. Beverly is survived by her husband of 43 years Arlon Bardwell, son Joshua Bardwell (Amanda Bardwell), daughter Megan Miller (Brendan Miller), three grandchildren Ailynn and Jace Bardwell and Cayden Miller, as well as her sister Janice Cambre (Dr. Bob Cambre) and brother Terry Sibley (Lauren Sibley). She is preceded in death by her dear mother Nell Sibley, father Columbus Sibley, brother Hugh Sibley, and sister in law Frankie Sibley. Beverly was an avid sports fan, especially of LSU athletics and she loved cooking, sharing southern hospitality, and her cats. She was especially crazy about her grandchildren. She will be remembered as a woman of great faith even in illness and suffering and as someone who loved her family and friends deeply.

A visitation will be held from 4-5 pm on Friday, January 5th at Flanner Buchanan-Carmel, with a celebration of life service following at 5 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

David Lynn Power, Sr.

November 23, 1947 – December 27, 2017

A resident of Greensburg passed away on Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at his home. He was born November 23, 1947 in Biloxi, MS and was 70 years of age. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Meryl Marie Power; 2 sons, David L. Power, Jr. and Matt Philip Power; grandson, David L. Power, III; 3 brothers, Tyrone Power, John Power, and Gerald Power; sister, Phyllis Fabre; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by parents, Anthony P. Power, Sr. and Lylia DeRouen Power; brother, Anthony P. “Tony” Power, Jr.; sister, Patsy Giavotella. Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, 110 E. Factory St., Amite, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 13, 2018. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Vida M. Tyrney

April 26, 1943 – January 02, 2018

A resident of Kentwood passed away on Tuesday, January 2, 2018. She was born April 26, 1943 in St. Louis, MO and was 74 years of age. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Jim Tyrney; son, Jedediah D. Tyrney and wife, Kristy; 3 grandchildren, Madeline, Grace and Violet Tyrney; sister, Kathy Els and husband, Kenneth and her sister in law, Frankie Tyrney Husser. Preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Ella Bohmie and her brother, Edward Bohmie, Jr. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 10 AM until religious services at 12 Noon Saturday, January 6, 2018. Interment Line Creek Cemetery, Kentwood. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Louisiana Baptist youth leader, NOBTS student, dies on mission field

http://baptistmessage.com/louisiana-baptist-youth-leader-nobts-student-dies-mission-field/

Read the Bible

Genesis 10-14
Proverbs 2
Matthew 4

Baptist Press – http://bpnews.net

The Lottie Moon Christmas Offering poster at church now has two new “lights”. We have room for more. Another way to say that is “We can always give more for people to learn about Jesus”.

The Friday Morning Bible Study will meet tomorrow. We will be toasty warm and have coffee available. Also, the temperature will be warmer. Join us as we study God’s Word at 10:00 A.M. at FBC, Kentwood.

Thank-you for reading this post and praying. Don’t forget to pray for the Peter Pedeaux family and all those who are searching for him in the swamp near Tickfaw State Park.

Anna Lee

Thursday

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

And what does the LORD require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

~Micah 6:8 (NIV)~

There are still many people sick. Some have short-term illnesses, but some have long-term issues. I’ve listed many. Keep praying form those that you are aware of.

Beverly L. Bardwell

Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on April 18, 1955

Departed on January 1, 2018 and resided in Westfield, Indiana

David Lynn Power, Sr.

November 23, 1947 – December 27, 2017

Vida M. Tyrney

April 26, 1943 – January 02, 2018

Louisiana Baptist youth leader, NOBTS student, dies on mission field

http://baptistmessage.com/louisiana-baptist-youth-leader-nobts-student-dies-mission-field/

Read the Bible

Genesis 10-14
Proverbs 2
Matthew 4

Baptist Press – http://bpnews.net

The Lottie Moon Christmas Offering poster at church now has two new “lights”. We have room for more. Another way to say that is “We can always give more for people to learn about Jesus”.

Thank-you for reading this post and praying. Don’t forget to pray for the Peter Pedeaux family and all those who are searching for him in the swamp near Tickfaw State Park.

Anna Lee

Wednesday

“Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen;

it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.”

~Hebrews 11:1 NLT~

Pray for the many people sick with the stomach bug, flu, and pneumonia. Take care not to catch or spread any of these.

Dutton Wall

October 05, 1939 – December 31, 2017

Read the Bible

Genesis 10-14
Psalm 2
Matthew 3

Baptist Press – http://bpnews.net

“Where Your Church Is on the Congregational Life Cycle?” – Thom S. Rainer – http://http://thomrainer.com/2018/01/understanding-where-your-church-is-on-the-congregational-life-cycle/

“2018 Best Practices (#1)” – Dr. Waylon Bailey – http://waylonbailey.com/2018/01/03/2018-best-practices-1/

Lottie Moon Offering for International Missions

It’s not too late to give to the LMCO to support telling people around the world about Jesus. Some people are called to go and tell. Others are called to tell internationally though giving. How are you telling?

Once again, we have continuing cold weather. Choose one or more people to check on today.

Anna Lee

Tuesday

He who was seated on the throne said,

“I am making everything new!”

Then he said,

“Write this down,

for these words are trustworthy and true.”

~Revelation 21:5~

This Scripture should be the encouragement we need to begin the daily Bible readings for 2018.

Read the Bible – January 2

Genesis 5-9
Proverbs 1
Matthew 2

Today, let’s pray for Mike and Colleen Lambert as he is still hospitalized in Hammond. We know the power of prayer, Let’s use it to give comfort to the Strickland family during difficult days. Let’s pray for strengthening of their faith as each difficulty comes along.

Lawrence Costa Phillips

August 02, 1922 – December 28, 2017

Lawrence Costa Phillips, son of James Blaine Phillips & Annie Jay Lindsey Phillips, was born August 2, 1922, in Pine Ridge, St. Helena Parish, LA, and passed on Thursday, December 28, 2017 in Dennis Mills, LA after 95 memorable years. He married Julia Virgina Calmes of Dennis Mills on March 7, 1948 after completing 4 years of service in the US Navy in WWII. Lawrence had both BS and MS degrees in agriculture from LSU and worked as a vocational agriculture teacher from Pine Grove High School for 30 years. Predeceased by parents, wife, son, Gregory L. Phillips, and siblings, Cordelia, Flynn, James, Clyde, Lois, Dean. Survived by two sons, Chaney Phillips and wife, Marty of Ponchatoula, Matthew Phillips and wife, Christine of Watson, six grandsons, Gregory Phillips and wife, Jennifer of Metairie, Ryan Phillips and wife, Stephanie of Baton Rouge, Jason Phillips and wife, Kristi of Baton Rouge, Dallas Phillips and wife, Tammy of Denham Springs, Jackson Phillips of New Jersey, Ethan Phillips of Watson, one granddaughter, Brandy Roberts and husband, John of Denham Springs, eight great-grandchildren, Chaney, Grayson and Lindsey Phillips of Metairie, Jacob and Jordan Phillips of Baton Rouge, Brenna and Blaine Phillips of Baton Rouge, Brandon Phillips of Denham Springs, numerous nieces and nephews, and hundreds of friends and extended family. A special thanks to beloved neighbor, friend, and devoted caregiver, Elaine Cash. Lawrence was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, friend and provider with an endless passion for education, history and sharing stories.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Louisiana FFA or Naval Historical Foundation. Visitation will be at Pine Ridge Methodist Church on Hwy 440 west of Tangipahoa, LA on Thursday, January 4, 2018 from 10am until services at 12pm with Rev. Michael Townsend officiating. Reception to follow services. Private interment at Pine Ridge Cemetery. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Today at 3 P.M. in the Fellowship Hall of FBC is the fellowship to honor Miss Fay Shoemaker. Don’t miss your opportunity to tell her how she has impacted and improved your life. She will soon be moving to the Atlanta area.

The Lottie Moon Christmas Offering is our opportunity to help send someone else to represent us as a Christian witness on foreign soil. I’m so thankful for those who go. My duty is to support them. One hundred per cent of our gifts will go to the field to help meet needs of missionaries and their ministries.

If you and/or your church will be collecting for Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes, you may be interested in this site. https://www.samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/year-round-packing-ideas/?utm_source=OCCFacebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=m_YOCC-18SM&utm_content=Jan-ItemoftheMonth-1-1-18 . The suggested items are gloves, scarves, and hats. Check the dollar stores and sales in other stores this month. Items brought to FBC, Kentwood can be left in the office of in my classroom.

Check on someone who may be having a hard time with the cold weather. If we were having a hard time, think of how blessed we would feel if someone checked on us!

Anna Lee