What season of the year is it? It’s VBS season! VBS begins Monday at FBC, Kentwood. Get your family’s boys and girls registered. Call the church office at 229-8111 or drop by this week to take care of the registration process.
Prayer Focus for Individuals
Pray for the boys and girls who make a decision to take Jesus into their hearts. May they be supported by their home church, if they have one. If not, may they quickly find a church to train and encourage them in their young lives.
As you pray read this, pray. Pray for those learning about missions, those who are serving as missionaries, and those who have served as missionaries. What an important role God has for some estra special people!
Others
Remember to give some time to others today. Encouragement can cost your nothing but a little time for a phone call, a note in the mail, or a visit rather than passing by a home. It may be an encouragement to you, but it certainly is an encouragement to others.
We are home from a granddaughter’s (Madison’s) wedding. It was both wonderful and beautiful. I wish you all could have experienced it too. It was special meeting Jack’s parents. He was their only child.
Daily Bible Reading
May 24 – Num. 26-27
May 25 – Num. 28-30
May 26 – Num. 31-32
Prayer Focus
As we enter into June in a few days, remember to pray for the many June brides.
A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at her home. She was born February 7, 1952 in Rienzi, MS and was 73 years of age. She is survived by her husband, Jeff Strickland; 2 daughters, Cindy Huber and Crystal Strickland; 2 sons, Jim Wages and Lonnie Wages; 1 sister, Dorothy Phillip; 3 brothers, Charles Studdard, Bobby Studdard, and Jimmy Studdard; 8 grandchildren, Dustin Wages, Cody Wages. Amber Huber, Rylie Achord, Ethan Strickland, Corey Wages, Sarah Wages, and Cristina Ricks; 21 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her daughter, Wendy Ricks; parents, Jim Hill Studdard, Ruby Glidwill Studdard; and brother, James Studdard. Graveside Services will be held at Spring Creek Cemetery, Spring Creek, LA at 11:00AM Saturday, May 24, 2025. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Janet Lynn Mitchell
May 12, 1959 – May 22, 2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved sister Janet Lynn Mitchell, who left this world peacefully on May 22, 2025. She was 66 years old
Janet lived life to the fullest and had enduring compassion for others. She had a beautiful soul which was evident to all who knew her, bringing warmth, laughter, and kindness into every room she entered.
Throughout her life, Janet embraced every moment fully. Whether traveling to new places, cheering on her favorite team, or gathering for a family meal, she infused everything she did with passion and heart. She was a treasured sister and favorite aunt to all her nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents Roy and Erline Mitchell, her nephew Shaun Tycer, and longtime companion Al Buckner.
She is survived by siblings, Deborah O’Shee (Jerry), Linda Tycer (Dwain), Alan Mitchell (Kelley), Ronny Mitchell (Louise), Jason Mitchell, and numerous nieces and nephews.
She is also survived by Paige McVay (Ryan) who was loved dearly like a daughter and their children Lucy and Fisher who affectionately called her J-Maw.
A celebration of Janet’s life will be held on Thursday, July 17th at 11:00 at Blythewood in Amite, LA.
Janet will be dearly missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
Shellie Jean Taylor
February 18, 2005 – May 25, 2025
Shellie Jean Taylor, affectionately known as “Sister Sue”, passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the age of 20. Shellie Jean, a resident of Amite, LA, was born on February 18, 2005, in Baton Rouge.
To know Shellie Jean was to love her. A shining star in every sense, she was witty, loving, and full of life. Shellie had an innate ability to light up any room she entered, making her the center of attention in the best way possible. Whether it was dressing up for an event or simply spending time with loved ones, she never hesitated to show her vibrant, one-of-a-kind personality. Her infectious laughter and joyful spirit made her the life of every gathering.
A devoted daughter, Shellie Jean’s love for her family was evident in every interaction. She shared a special bond with her mother, who lovingly prepared her favorite meals. Although tiny, she could eat her weight in crawfish or snow crabs.. Shellie’s love for good food was only rivaled by her passion for life and the people in it.
She was a 2025 graduate of John Jay Beauty School in New Orleans, where she pursued her passion for hair and makeup as an aesthetician. Shellie Jean’s artistic talent and love for making others feel beautiful were clear in everything she did. She was eagerly looking forward to attending nursing school in the fall.
Shellie Jean was greeted in heaven by her MiMi, Dot Taylor, and her grandpaw, Jack Taylor.
She leaves behind many who loved her dearly, including her mother, Lisa Taylor; her father, Michael Taylor; her brothers, Christopher and Jason (Chelsea Bates); her cherished niece, Rylee Jo Taylor; her grandpaw, Don Taylor; and her grandmother, Marian Taylor, affectionately known as MawMaw Marnie. She is also survived by her loving boyfriend, Cayne Ramsey. In addition, she is survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; including a special aunt and uncle, Tammy and Chuck Rick; and Linda Perez; special cousins, Brittany and Chris McKinney, who were more like an aunt and uncle to her; and special cousins, Caidence, Collin, and Chloe McKinney, and Cody and Alli Rick, and their daughters Amelia, Abigail, Adeline, and Annie Kate.
Pallbearers will be Charlie LeBlanc, Chris McKinney, Christopher Taylor, Chuck Rick, Cody Rick, Collin McKinney, and Jason Taylor.
A visitation will be held at McKneely Funeral Home of Amite, on Wednesday, May 28, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM, followed by a celebration of her life at 11:00 AM. Burial will be at Greensburg Cemetery. Her family invites all who knew and loved Shellie Jean to join them in remembering her bright spirit.
”Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” John 14: 1-3
It’s hard to post obituaries for a former student and for the child of a former student on the same day!
Please pray for the families of these three young ladies. Please also remember David and Patsy Darnell who lost their son to lung cancer yesterday.
Memorial Day
Look up the meaning of this holiday. Meditate on it. Thank God for those
Addition Bible Reading
‘A Glorious Transformation’
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is,
there is freedom. 18 And we all, who with unveiled faces ….
2 Co. 3:17-18
Memorial Day
AI Overview
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States that honors and remembers the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. It is observed on the last Monday of May.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Origins:Memorial Day’s roots are in the aftermath of the Civil War, when Americans would decorate the graves of fallen soldiers. It was initially called “Decoration Day”.
Evolution:After World War I, the holiday evolved to honor all U.S. military personnel who died in service, not just those from the Civil War.
Purpose:Memorial Day is a day for reflection and remembrance, a time to honor the sacrifices of those who died while serving our country.
Observance:It’s marked by visits to cemeteries, parades, ceremonies, and the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m., encouraging a pause for silence.
Relationship to Summer:While primarily a day of remembrance, Memorial Day has also become a marker of the unofficial start of summer, with many Americans enjoying outdoor activities and barbeques.
I think most Americans do not understand the purpose of this holiday. I only know of a few who died while serving. If you get a chance today, please share this information.
I missed you while I was gone. It hurt not to be able to connect with you. I’m so happy to be back!!!!!
Today, our prayer focus is on water safety. There are many water activities like fishing, boating, and swimming that involve people who do not swim. The first positive step would be to learn to swim. Then, the next step is to practice what you know!
It is another day God gifted us with. I hope we can do our part to make it a great day for others as well as ourselves.
Daily Bible Reading
May 22 ~ Numbers 21-22
Sunday School Lesson
If you have not already done so, please give your lesson a first reading. Pay close attention to the Scripture. This is only for an introduction, not an in-depth study.
V.B.S. Is getting closer at my church. No matter if you are a member or a visitor, please register this week and make next week easier for you!
,Prayer Request – Church Couples
Joe and Barbara Baugh
Bobby and Betty Simpson
Kenneth and Yvonne Birch
Tom and Gail Brister
NAndy and Betty Taylor
Henry and Virginia McKenzie
David and Anna Lee Alford
Others, I failed to list
Be a blessing to others today!
Baptist Press may have some news that interests you this morning.
Today, let’s pray for all the students who get out of school this week. We pray for a good, productive, and fun summer, but also a safe one for each of the students. I pray many will be involved in Vacation Bible School, church camps, and other special summer events as well as the regular activities at church.
Verse of the Day
Daily Bible Reading
May 20
Numbers 16-17
Obituary
Roy Carl Graham
February 5, 1957 – May 18, 2025
A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Sunday, May 18, 2025 at his home. He was born February 5, 1957 in Amite, LA and was 68 years of age. He is survived by his wife, Rina Hawkins Graham; 2 sons, Roy Graham, Jr. and wife, Amanda and Darrel Graham; daughter, Lauren Graham; 1 sister, Betty Kinchen; 1 brother, Rodney Graham; grandchildren, Briton, Bryce, Haley, Braxton, Ava, Marcus, Londyn and Brandon; great-granddaughter, Paislee. Preceded in death by his parents, R.C. and Joyce Ballard Graham; and brother, Paul Graham. Visitation at Wilmer Missionary Baptist Church from 10:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Services conducted by Bro. Jason Skipper. Interment Wilmer Cemetery, Wilmer, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Thank you for being such special people! Continue to worship God and serve others. Be an example. Set the standards high. Put in the time. Work without expecting a check or recognition. God knows and appreciates you!
Thanks to my church for recognizing bothhigh school and college graduates yesterday. As individuals, we need to do the same.
Good Morning to a New Week.
For many students and families this is the last week of the 24-25 school year. I hope you have started your new day and new week with a prayer. This may help if you have not already done so.
We studied this Scripture in Sunday School the last Sunday of March. It is a very comforting Scripture you may want to return to periodically.
Please pray for all the people who lived through the tornadoes on the 16th. As you pray, remember the actual storm experience, the many deaths, and the destruction thousands of people will be facing. Pray for churches as they try to lead the way despite damage and destruction. Pray for Baptists as they help access and rebuild homes and churches as people think of rebuilding lives, families, homes, jobs, etc. Pray too for Baptist Disaster Relief and for Samaritan’s Purse as they move in to help access and clear damage and to put lives together again.
Daily Bible Reading
May 19
Numbers 14-15
Additional Scripture Reading
‘God Knows All About Me!’
You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Ps. 139:1-3
Notice the word “all”. He knows even our innermost thoughts!
Scripture for Sunday School Next Week
II Peter 3:8-18
Prayer Time
Spend some time in prayer periodically throughout the day.
Others
What you say and do today will impact others. Make sure that will be a positive impact!
Today at FBC, the graduates will be recognized and honored. We are thankful for them and for their achievements.
Prayer Focus
Let’s pray for the graduates as they close one chapter of their lives and move on to the next. Pray for their families too.
Verse of the Day
…I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.
Philippians 1:19
Obituary
Maurice Jay Bridges
January 15, 1945 – May 15, 2025
A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at his home surrounded by his loving wife and children. He was born January 15, 1945 in Magnolia, MS and was 80 years of age. He served as Constable for 4 years for St. Helena Parish and was an avid deer hunter. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Judy Bridges; 3 daughters, Debra “Dede” Bridges (Alton), Johna Blades (Cody), and Montana Pilcher (Kenny); 13 grandchildren, Erin Foster(Derrick), Zach Foster(Emma), Sunni Womack (Braxton), Adriohna “AJ” Blades, Curtis Blades, Dalton Blades, Bristol Blades, Kaiden Pilcher, Kaige Pilcher, Koby Pilcher, Martena “Tena” Pilcher, Harlee Wilson (BreAnna), and Heather McCraine (Dennis); 13 great-grandchildren, Blaise Sanders, Lennox “Lenny” Womack, Frankie Womack, Sabastian Brabham, Dominic Brabham, Emmie Lynn Brabham, Preston Hunt, Kinsley Hunt, Luke Foster, Lyla Foster, Kaysen Wilson, Kashtyn Wilson, and Kohlson Wilson. Preceded in death his parents, Willie and Tena Bridges; daughter, Rebecca Foster; sisters, Betty Wales, Monnie McNabb, Billie Ray Bullock, and Rhonda Bridges; brothers, Rocky Bridges, Thomas “Pudd” Bridges, and Curtis Bridges. The family would like to thank Pulse Hospice, his nurse Shani, and his caregiver James for their excellent care. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 9:00AM until Memorial Services at 12:00 Noon on Saturday, May 24, 2025. Services conducted by Rev. Donnie Easley. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Cottage Church, Kentwood. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Daily Bible Reading
May 18
Numbers 11-13
Looking ahead, I see we will read two chapters one day and three chapters the next day for a while. Isn’t that interesting?
We are still needing one girl staffer for Children’s Mission Camp and Mini MAC at Tall Timbers. The dates for camps for CMC and Mini MAC are July 19-27. Camp Staff Training will be held June 27-28.
We provide a stipend of $500 and we pay for mileage to and from camp.
If you know a college-aged girl who is interested and can work these two sets of dates, please have her contact Kristina.Henry@LBC.org ASAP.
It’s good to share again. I’m glad you “came” this morning.
Verse of the Day
This photo made me stop and think a while.
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s pray for those who are not saved. Let’s pray this is the day!
Daily Bible Readings
May 17
Numbers 8-10
Sunday School Lesson Tomorrow
“Be Alert”
Passages from II Peter and Jude
Obituaries
Sylvia Thompson Misita
June 6, 1935 – May 16, 2025
A resident of Independence, LA, passed away on Friday, May 16, 2025 at her home. She was born June 6, 1935 in Amite, LA and was 89 years of age. “Even in the face of her declining health challenge, her enthusiasm for life was always present, she remained internally strong and willing to do what it took to remain mobile. She was determined to be able to do for herself, never allowing her spirit to falter.” She was truly a remarkable lady, she spent her life serving others within the family. Others needs were her focus. We became ever more amazed at her strength and determination until the end. We will miss you Mom, but I know you will remain in our hearts pushing us the family forward. She is survived by 1 daughter, Susan Misita Petty and husband, Spurgeon; 2 sons, John Michael Misita and wife, Cindy, and Anthony Jay Misita; 6 grandchildren, Jennifer Lynn Fleming, Joseph Misita, Micah Marie Misita, Kaci Misita Guidry, Nicholas Misita, and Austin Shaw Dillon; 9 great-grandchildren, Aidan Fleming, Mary Payton Fleming, Denton Bowen, Benjamin Guidry, Marcelle Guidry, Luke Guidry, Drew Peyton Dillon, Ava Tyler Dillon, and Landon Misita. Preceded in death by her son, Dwayne Thomas Misita; daughter, Toni Lynn Misita; her husband, Anthony Thomas Misita; parents, John and Dorothy Thompson; 2 sisters, Frances Joan Thompson and Dorothy Ann Thompson Bobbit; 2 brothers, John Rex Thompson and Frank Joe Thompson; and aunt, Ruthie Lautier. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Monday, May 19, 2025. Services conducted by Deacon Eddie Renz. Interment Amite Memorial Garden, Amite, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Jeanette Relan
March 28, 1941 – May 15, 2025
A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at her home in Amite, LA. She was born March 28, 1941 in New Orleans, LA and was 84 years of age. She is survived by her children, BimBo Relan, Kalola Harrelson (Mike), and Tony Relan; grandchildren, Chance Relan, Denver Harrelson, Lundyn Harrelson, Kiley Harrelson, Jolene Relan, and Dakota Settoon; great-granddaughter, Naomi Harrelson; sister-in-law, Margaret Relan; and her good friend, Wanda Oliver Donovan. Preceded in death by her husband, Bennie Relan; 2 sons, Sam “Chunky” Relan and Richard “Balbo” Relan; parents, William and Della Rainey; brothers-in-law, Frank Relan, Sambo Relan, Joe Relan, and Charles Relan, Jr. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 11:00AM until religious services at 1:30PM on Thursday, May 22, 2025. Services conducted by Ricky Relan. Interment Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA. Pallbearers will be Mike Harrelson, Denver Harrelson, Chance Relan, Denny Currier, Charles “Chuck” Reid, Thomas “BoBo” Hood, and Kevin Morgan. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
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