“What happiness for those whose guilt has been forgiven!

What joys when sins are covered over!

What relief for those who have confessed their sins and God has cleared their record.”

~Psalm 32:1-2 (TLB)~

We seem to have a number of deaths today.

Linda B. Williams lost her Jimmy last night.

Mary Belinda Ardoin Chavers

February 09, 1949 – January 24, 2021

Belinda was born on February 9, 1949 and on January 24, 2021 she left the loving arms of her family and went to the loving arms of our Savior, Jesus.

1 Peter 3:2-4 perfectly describes Belinda. “For when they observe your pure, godly life before God, it will impact them deeply. Let your true beauty come from your inner personality, not a focus on the external. For lasting beauty comes from a gentle and peaceful spirit, which is precious in God’s sight and is much more important than the outward adornment of elaborate hair, jewelry, and fine clothes.”

Belinda was born to Mary Adele and Joseph Audley Ardoin. She was a native of Ville Platte, Louisiana and a resident of Amite, Louisiana. She completed cosmetology school in 1966. In 1967, she married the love of her life, Jr. She proudly traded in her scissors for her self-proclaimed title of Domestic Engineer. Her joy in life was serving her husband, and he, in turn, loved and served her. She was a devoted mom and instilled family values and the love of Christ in her children. Her grandchildren, who were perfect in her eyes, were her pride and joy.

Belinda is survived by her husband of 53 years, Luther Chavers, Jr. Her daughter and son-in-law, Connie & Malcolm Henry; her son, Paul Chavers; her grandchildren, Cody and Erica Husser, Blake Henry and fiancé Victoria Rocquin, Mackenzie Chavers and Landon Chavers; great-grandson, Dason Cole Husser; her sisters Mary Domingue, Lafayette; Jane Bustamante, Metairie; Georgia (Wally) Wagner, Hammond; brother, J.A. (Joyce) Ardoin, DeRidder; sisters-in-law, Diane Hilton, Virginia “Jenny” (Ricky) Lambert, Amite; brother-in-law, Wayne (Rhonda) Chavers, Loranger, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was proceeded in death by her parents Mary Adele Guillory Ardoin and Joseph Audley Ardoin and her precious grandson, Zachary Ryan “Fred” Henry.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the amazing staff at North Oaks Medical Center. The love and compassion given to Belinda and the family during this time will forever be appreciated.

Belinda chose to celebrate life daily with her family. To honor her wishes she will be cremated and there will be no memorial or celebration of life service. The family asks for continued prayers as they learn to go forward without their treasure.

Glenda Edwards Bennett

October 26, 1953 – January 21, 2021

Glenda Edwards Bennett, a resident of Hammond, LA, passed away on Thursday, January 21, 2021 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. She was born October 26, 1953 in Independence, LA and was 67 years of age. She is survived by her 2 daughters, Pamela Nickerson and husband Robert and Marilyn Wright and husband Chris; 1 son, Thomas Bennett; grandchildren, Robert Nickerson III, Christopher Bennett, Katlin Bryan, Angelica Bennett, Kassie Bennett, Zachary Wright, Joshua Wright, Luke Wright, Caleb Wright, Treavor Bennett and Jaci Bennett; great-grandchildren, Alvin Thibodeaux and Maverick Bryan; sisters, Mavis Beasley and Deborah Rowell; loved one, Michael Tanner. Preceded in death by her parents, Robert and rosa Lea Edwards; son, Jason Robert Bennett; brother, Robert Edwards; 2 sisters, Barbara Louge and Marilyn Bentivegna. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Wednesday, January 27, 2021. Interment Killian Chapel Cemetery, Amite, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Franklin Woodrow Redmond, Sr.

July 10, 1932 – January 21, 2021

Read the Bible Chronologically in 2021 – January 25

JOB 26:1-29:25

Today’s Prayer Focus – Those who are grieving

Reminder – When you are out shopping, it is helpful if you pick up some glue sticks, pens, and pencil sharpeners for pencil bags.

Due to the intermittent rain, I am going to publish this while I can. Have a great day!

Anna Lee

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being,

~Ephesians 3:16~

Pray for Mr. “Cete” Dillon and Jana as they drive to Ochsner in New Orleans where they will meet Iley and Mr. “Cete” will have a medical test. Pray the fog allows for safe traveling

Allan McGehee passed away due to Covid. Please pray for his family, especially Mrs. Jeanette and Rhonda.

It seems like more than 50% of the people that I know who have passed away lately have died because of Covid. Friends, wear a mask, wash your hands, and practice social distancing. The life you save might be another friend or family member! It’s really not asking a lot to follow these three guidelines to save those we know and love. – Anna Lee

Read the Bible chronologically in 2021 January 25

January 22nd Readings
JOB 12:1-14:22

January 23rd Readings
JOB 15:1-18:21

January 24th Readings – Sunday
JOB 19:1-21:34

January 25th Readings 0 Monday
JOB 22:1-25:6

January 26th Readings
JOB 26:1-29:25

January 27th Readings
JOB 30:1-31:40

January 28th Readings
JOB 32:1-34:37

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

Lottie Moon Offering for International Missions

If you don’t feel led to serve internationally as a full time missionary, you can help send others.

Matthew 28:19-20 NIV:

¹⁹ Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

  ²⁰ and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Prayer Focus Today – Protecting others from Covid

Pray for everyone to be more faithful in following the rules to save lives from Covid. Pray for the family and the many, many friends and co-workers of Bruce Cutrer, a man who spent his life making the world safer/better for others. May we all learn to live a life thinking about others like Bruce did.

Anna Lee

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

~Isaiah 40:29~

Read the Bible chronologically in 2021 – January 24

JOB 19:1-21:34

If you attend church services in person, wonderful. If you cannot, watch online. Most of the local churches have online services, but the times vary. Be sure to check ahead of time so you do not miss the services you plan to participate in.

Today’s Prayer Focus

Pray for the vaccination process to run smoothly and many more people able to get the vaccine. Pray for the effectiveness to be as high or higher than predicted.

Have a blessed Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

“God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.”

~Philippians 2:13 (NLT)~

From Loretta Wilson:

Good Morning, I am giving an update on my cousin, Kevin Travis. He will be meeting with the doctor Monday afternoon at 2pm to get more information on treatment and prognosis. We appreciate the prayers so far but we are asking for continued prayers as he finds out his next steps. He is staying positive, but also knows the Lord has a plan and that his will be done. Thank you all.

How maNy “shoeboxes” were shipped in 2020?

Operation Christmas Child 

Today we’re sharing the number of Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts donated in 2020!This past year, the COVID-19 pandemic left people around the world searching for hope, and it became more important than ever for children to hear that God loves them and has not forgotten them. Despite a challenging year, shoebox packers answered the call and stepped up to provide Gospel Opportunities for boys and girls around the world. Now the official numbers are in, and we’re thrilled to celebrate 9,113,853 shoebox gifts donated worldwide in 2020! We praise God that these shoebox gifts will open doors for local believers to share the love and hope of Jesus Christ with hurting children in their communities during these uncertain times. As the gifts you packed make their way around the world and into the hands of boys and girls in need of the Gospel, please continue joining with us in prayer. And don’t forget to mark your calendars for National Collection Week 2021—Nov. 15-22. You can always find our guide to packing a shoebox here: http://sampur.se/Pack2021

Bruce Edward Cutrer

January 10, 1948 – January 20, 2021

Bruce Edward Cutrer, a lifelong resident of Amite, LA was born January 10, 1948 and entered into eternal life at the age of 73 while being surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at North Oaks Medical Center of Hammond, LA. As the Fire Chief of Tangipahoa Parish Fire District #1, Bruce dedicated his life as a true public servant for 56 years to the people of Tangipahoa Parish risking his life for the safety of others. While being a member and servant of Cornerstone Church of Amite, Bruce was a man of character who lived his life according to God’s Plan. He was also an ambassador for the city of Amite, Tangipahoa Parish, and the state of Louisiana. He had a genuine heart and love for all people, and a way of personally touching each and every person in the community. While answering all calls and requests regardless of the nature, he always showed up with a servants heart, a big smile on his face and an encouraging word. Bruce had an anointing on him that would immediately calm distressed people and instantly put them at ease with his mere presence. Describing Bruce Edward Cutrer has many facets: The Man (Honorable, Trustworthy, Steadfast, Encouraging, Honest, Wise, Forthcoming with Advice); The Warrior (Went into battle for just causes he believed in and won. He did not know how to lose.); The Legend (The Legacy He Has Left Behind). Famous Quotes by Bruce: “Top of the Day to You”, “Stay to the Right of the Center Line” and “This isn’t my Job, It’s my Calling.” Bruce adored his wife Mary and loved spending time with his family. His most treasured time was spent at his mancave or as he called it “his castle” with NaNa (Mary) and Snap (his faithful dog). His weekend tradition was taking Snap for a ride to Master Chef every Saturday morning for a honey butter biscuit and sausage. While serving as a husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend to all, he is survived by his loving wife Mary D. Cutrer of Amite; his son, Bruce E. “Binky” Cutrer, II; daughters, Keeli L. Cutrer and fiancé Danny D. “Bull” Prevost, Jr., Misty S. Jenkins and husband Ryan of Loranger and Kayla S. Hidalgo and husband Jared of Prairieville; grandchildren, Tristan James Ackerman, Madison Claire Ackerman, Paityn Rose Ackerman, and Adelyne Kate Hidalgo on the way. He is preceded in death by father, Edward C. “Ed” Cutrer; and mother, Louise Henry Murphy and her husband, J. B. “Buddy” Murphy; and his brother, Joe Wayne Cutrer. Mary quotes that Bruce was the greatest man I’ve ever loved and he will be greatly missed. Visitation will be held at House on the Rock Church, Amite, from 6:00PM until 9:00PM Monday, January 25, 2021 and from 10:00AM until his final salute beginning at 11:45AM on Tuesday, January 26, 2021. Services conducted by State Fire Marshall Butch Browning, Pastor Lafete Tucker, Pastor Mervin Strother, and Pastor Chip Fitz. Interment Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

“The greatest among you will be the one who always serves others from the heart. Remember this: If you have a lofty opinion of yourself and seek to be honored, you will be humbled. But if you have a modest opinion of yourself and choose to humble yourself, you will be honored.” Matthew 23:11-12.

Read the Bible Chronologically in 2021 – January 23

Job 12:1 – 14:22

Today’s Prayer Focus: Church Services Tomorrow

Pray for all that is involved in church services that they may effectively teach us, stir our hearts, and inspire us to be what God wants us to be.

Anna Lee

The LORD gives strength to his people;

the LORD blesses his people with peace.

~Psalm 29:11~

According to Rondi Garner Booty, her grandmother Alcyone Hayden is better and back at home. Please continue to pray for Alcyon as she recovers from pneumonia.

Charles Warren is now on Day 45 at North Oaks with Covid. As you pray for him, please also pray for this family and the medical staff caring for him.

A neighbor, Lauree Phillips, has lost two nephews in a month to Covid.

Dennis Wayne “Dink” Day

Dennis Wayne Day died on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021. He was 71 years old, a resident of Zachary and a retired Fire Fighter with Zachary Fire Department with over 30 years of service. Visitation will be on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021 from 9am until 11am. Burial will be at Azalea Rest Cemetery, Zachary. Dennis is survived by his children, Christi Day Comeaux and husband, Alvin and Wayne Day and wife, Courtney. 3 grandchildren, Collin and Preston Comeaux and Morgan Day. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ellis and Mavis Day and a brother, Keith Day. Pallbearers will be Zachary Fire Department. Honorary pallbearers will be Huey “Mann” Patin, John Fowler, “Scooter” Day, Alvin Comeaux and Darrell and Brandon Frederic. Dennis loved animals, traveling and gardening. His life was full of love and experiences filled with a host of special friends and family, including Bobbie Frederic Day, Linda Day, Kim Argrave, Stacy Kramer, Brandon Frederic, Darrell Frederic and Maria Zepeda. Share sympathies, condolences and memories at www.CharletFuneralHome.com.

Mary Retha Battles Davis

March 30, 1926 – January 19, 2021

Mary Retha Battles Davis departed this life on Tuesday, January 19,2021 at North Oaks Hospital in Hammond, Louisiana. She was born in Amite, Louisiana on March 30th, 1926 and was 94 years old. She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, George Wilson Davis. She was a lifelong member of Westview Baptist Church. Along with her husband, they raised three boys on a dairy farm. She was a woman of many talents. This ranged from being a good mother, a seamstress, a great cook, teaching Sunday school and bible school, caring for grandchildren and even milking cows. She was a woman of strong convictions and could work circles around anyone until she suffered a debilitating stroke at the age of 67. Through family support and her husband by her side, they continued to live many good years together and she will be missed by all. Survived by three sons; Glen Wilson Davis and wife, Sheelah, Baton Rouge, Lyndon Earl Davis and wife Lisa, Amite, and David Brent Davis and wife Barbara, Amite. Six grandchildren; Robert Davis and wife Aja, Prairieville, Emily Chenier and husband Kevin, Prairieville, Julie Neidhamer, Amite, Ashley Gilbert and husband Brandon, Laurel, Mississippi, Marlyn Davis, Amite and Brent Davis and wife Mandy, Amite, included are seven great grandchildren; Brooks and Brady Davis, Kate and Kendall Chenier, Cade and Ashlyn Neidhamer, Karli, Eden and Melody Gilbert, Karsyn and Wade Davis. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Nathan Clifford Battles and Lucille Bennett Battles, three brothers, Melvin Battles, Clifford Battles and Jimmie Battles and two sisters, Clara Battles Bennett and Margie Battles Drude. A private family service will be held at McKneely Funeral Home in Amite followed by burial at Killian Chapel Cemetery. Special thanks to the staff at Belle Maison Nursing Home in Hammond, Louisiana for the care and support they provided over the last few years. Memorial donations may be made to the American Stroke Foundation at www.americanstroke.org. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Read the Bible Chronologically in 2021 – January 22

Genesis 44:1-45:28
Matthew 14:13-36
Psalm 18:37-50
Proverbs 4:11-13

If you desire a hard copy of these references, they are available at FBC, Kentwood.

Louisiana Baptist Message

https://baptistmessage.com/

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

Today’s Prayer Focus – Patients at area hospitals and family members with limited visitation privileges

Hospital stays are often hard for the patients and the family, but they can be especially hard with the current visitation rules.

There are many others who are sick, having procedures, etc. Pray for them too. Keep your pray journal up-to-date and used daily.

Anna Lee

The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.

~Proverbs 18:10~

Many of you will remember Bro. Kevin and Jana Smith who served at Tangipahoa and Pine Ridge Methodist churches. They both have Covid-19 and request your prayers.

Pray for Mrs. Dorothy Hughes. She is fighting some health issues.

Jaime Lynn Wascom Stewart

June 06, 1976 – January 18, 2021

Andre Simon Cerigny

November 29, 1930 – January 19, 2021

A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at his home in Kentwood, LA. He was born November 29, 1930 in Golden Meadow, LA and was 90 years of age. He is survived by his wife, Lucretia V. Cerigny; 7 daughters, Patsy Shepherd and husband Steve, Wanda Batson, Donna Cerigny, Frances Husson and husband Charlie, Mary Martin and husband John, Tammy Payne and husband Mike and Renee Butler and husband Ben; 1 son, Andre’ Anthony Cerigny; 1 brother, Noah Serigny; grandchildren, Wayne Landry, Ricardo Ali, Megnon Ali, James Shepherd, Jeremiah Shepherd, Melaun Shepherd, Dyron Cerigny, Daquay Cerigny, Lena Batson, Leon Batson, Lucretia Myra Batson, Tracy Cerigny, Stacy Cerigny, Christinna Cerigny, Areka Gomez, Mandy Cerigny, Mindy Pikey, Jenny Martin, Jade Martin, Thomas Gerald, Kenneth Butler and Karissa Butler; great-grandchildren, Christian Wrenn, Devon Wrenn, Jolie Wrenn, Hayden Ali, Rider True, Raven, Brandon Badon, James Shepherd, III, Taylor Shepherd, Abigail Shepherd, Kayla shepherd, Dakota Batson, Cheyenne Wehmyer, Sheena Batson, Draylin Hayden, Brandon Payne, Ali Payne, Cameron Martin, Aj Cerigny, Emily Heron, Chelsey Cerigny, Jeman Arceneaux, Jimmy Arceneaux and Mia Cerigny; great-grandchildren, Peyton Gomez, Briana Gomez, Hope Cerigny, Walter Kaufman, Ronald Cerigny, Cassie Pikey, Ashlin Cabibi, Savanna Bangs, Charles Pons, Aleeah Martin, Julia Gerald, Thomas Gerald Jr. and Alayah Butler; great-great-grandchildren, Hayes Hayden, Nolan Dykes, Joel Clouatre, Alex Chighizola, Hayden Arceneaux, Zayden Nunez and Jonathan Cerigny. Preceded in death by his parents, Valentine Serigny and Narcina Dardar Serigny; sisters, Alzier Verdin, Valentine Dardar, Mitia Riggs and Bridget Boquett; brothers, Milton Serigny, Joseph (Buron) Serigny, George Serigny, James Raymond Serigny, Ulysse Serigny Sr., Mitchel Serigny, Lixie Serigny and Meguel Serigny; and numerous Cousins, Aunts, Nephews and Nieces. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 5:00PM until 8:00PM on Friday and from 8:00AM until religious services at 10:00AM on Saturday, January 23, 2021 . Interment Colonial Cemetery, Independence, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Read the Bible Chronologically in 2021 – January 21

Genesis 42:18-43:34
Matthew 13:47-14:12
Psalm 18:16-36
Proverbs 4:7-10

Lottie Moon Offering for International Missions

Donations can be given through any Southern Baptist Church. One hundred percent of your donation will go to the mission field.

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

Today’s Prayer Focus – Thank God for Bruce Cutrer and all the other firemen & firewomen who serve in our area. Years ago, when my daddy was a fireman, they pretty well only fought fires. Today, they have many other responsibilities. Thank God for their dedication to learning new skills, giving of their time, and availability for helping others. Putting their lives on the line to save others, many of whom they do not know, is just a part of the daily routine.

Anna Lee

Rondi Garner Booty sent me a message that her grandmother, Alcyon Hayden, is in North Oaks with Covid pneumonia. Rondi said.” Her oxygen has been great. She is on room air. She is dealing with other issues.” Thank you for joining with me in praying for Alcyon and her family.

As I turned on my computer to add Alcyon, I got a message from a high school classmate that another one of our classmates, Bruce Cutrer, has passed away due to Covid. Bruce made an impact on everyone he met. He was always friendly, kind, and likable in all the years since 7th grade when I first knew him. Bruce is best know for years of service and guidance to the fire department.

You are my refuge and my shield;

I have put my hope in your word.

~Psalm 119:114~

“The Best is Yet to Be”

Read the Bible chronologically in 2021 – January 220

Genesis 41:17-42:17
Matthew 13:24-46
Psalm 18:1-15
Proverbs 4:1-6

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

I forgot to list this yesterday, so you may want to read articles posted both days.

Today’s Prayer Focus – America

A peaceful day in Washington D.C. and all 50 states!

Anna Lee

“Treat everyone you meet with dignity.”

~1 Peter 2:17 (The Message)~

Wanda Smith asks that we pray for her son and daughter-in- law who is expecting. They both have Covid-19. They live in Houma.

Pray for the many others families who have family members in hospital care, rehabilitation centers, extended care facilities, living alone, living far from family members, etc. Thankfully, some of our friends have shown improvement lately. Often, the improvement comes slowly and in baby steps. Help others recognize God’s love and care, even on the most difficult days and in the most difficult situations.

Jimmy Powers, Sr.

August 18, 1942 – January 17, 2021

Read the Bible chronologically in 2021 – January 19

GENESIS 37:1-38:30
MATTHEW 12:22-45
PSALM 16:1-11
PROVERBS 3:27-32

Hope Center – Just south of Roseland on Highway 51

I learned yesterday of another friend who works there. It takes a lot of volunteers to operate and serve the people of our area. It also takes special people to give a day of each week to work there. Hope Center is open Tuesday – Friday. Drop in and check them out at their new location.

People who love God and love others find many ways to serve in our communities. Everyone can do something that is a service that is needed by others.

• Make daily calls to check on those who live alone
• Help with chores and personal care
• Do yard work for others
• Provide transportation
• Pick up groceries or medicine
• Perform household tasks
• Read the Bible to those who can no longer read from themselves
• Provide firewood
• Do weekly laundry
• Etc.

Operation Christmas Child – I know I have told you it is easy to pick one item and make regular, like weekly or monthly, purchases. I know individuals who do this with items such as coloring books or small cars. This idea may work for you too. Simply, select one item and buy one or more every time you shop. Other ideas would be: calculators, scissors, flashlights, AA batteries, large erasers, highlighters, socks, underwear, stick deodorant, hair brushes, toothbrushes, notebooks, small stuffed animals, small cloth dolls, glue sticks, Dial soap, small balls, pocket folders, sewing supplies, spoons, small plastic cups or bowls, marbles, pens, markers, index cards, lip gloss, bandaids, etc.

Today’s Prayer Focus – Our country

I believe in prayer. I also believe in “putting feet to our prayers”.

Anna Lee

So do not fear, for I am with you;

do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you;

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

~Isaiah 41:10~

Read the Bible chronologically in 2021 – January 18

GENESIS 47:28-50:26

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions

You can give any time of the year at your local Southern Baptist church.

Continue to pray for those who are sick, the families who have lost a loved one, and for people to be more aware of taking care of their health.

Operation Christmas Child – Currently, I am making teddy bears to pack in shoeboxes. What are you doing now or planning to start soon? An early start each year gives plenty of time to accomplish many projects to help pack lots of boxes for a multitude of children!

Yesterday, I shared that we usually watch online church services early on Monday mornings because of poor internet reception during real time. I forgot to mention we changed internet services, but that didn’t help. Yesterday’s service started off the same as usual, but by the second song everything improved except for one minor problem. We watched it all the way to the end with no additional problems. We were also able to watch the evening service with no problems. Some of you must have prayed and someone above listened. Thanks-you!

Have a good, routine week!

Take time to pray. As Bro. Darryl talked about “Sweet Hour of Prayer”, I realized how seldom I pray for an hour. I have some improvement to work on. How about you?

Anna Lee