The best thing I ever did for a friend was . . . .
JAN. 10 – MATTHEW @: 1-4; MARK 1: 40-45; %: 12-13
I CAN SHOW THE POWER OF LOVE TO THE UNTOUCHABLES IN MY COMMUNITY BY . . . .
Bro. Darryl’s Wednesday Night Message
“Why are We Troubled”
Romans 5: 1
PRAYER FOCUS TODAY
Today, let’s pray for those who provide daily childcare for precious little ones in our community. Some are family members, some neighbors, some small home care providers, and some large-scale businesses. Their common factor is children. Pray for love and concern to abound, no matter the setting.
Christopher Hubert Robertson
September 20, 1971 – January 9, 2023
A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Monday, January 9, 2023 at Lakeview Regional Medical Center in Covington, LA. He was born September 20, 1971 in Independence, LA and was 51 years of age. He is survived by his father, Eddie Leland Robertson; mother, Christine Ann Robertson; daughter, Lilith Gaines Reid; sister, Heather Robertson Alston and husband Jay; brothers, Beau Jacque Robertson and wife Christi and Jonathon Eddie Robertson; maternal grandparent, Anna Mae Parker; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Edith Mae Taylor and Vincent Leland Robertson; maternal grandparents, Hubert Abraham and Helen Voisin and Clint Michael Parker; paternal great grandparents, Alice Agnes Durnin and David Davoil Robertson and Betty Elizabeth Hughes and Harrison Wiggins Taylor; maternal great grandparents, John Voisin and Alfreda Rose Bourg and Sam Canizaro and Mary Ann Varuso. Visitation at St. Helena Catholic Church Hall from 8:00AM until 10:00AM with Funeral Mass at St. Helena Catholic Church at 10:00AM on Thursday, January 12, 2023. Services conducted by Fr. Mark Beard. Interment Montpelier Community Cemetery, Montpelier, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Pray for God to show you ways to show love and concern for others.
Please continue to pray for Andy and Betty Taylor. Pray for Andy as he faces some testing and begins physical therapy today.
Pray for Diane Buckley and others who have been sick and unable to attend church.
Continue to pray for George Eddie Lee and others who are homebound.
I want to give a big thank-you to all those who helped with the OCC workday Saturday. You accomplished so much in a few hours and did a good job with every task. Thanks to those working on some tasks at home too. Best of all was the sweet spirit and fellowship among all the workers. Thanks to the members of the OCC team who visited Sunday School classrooms yesterday. The next workday will be the first Saturday of February.
PRAYER FOCUS TODAY – Begin to pray now for the children aho will receive the “Shoeboxes” we pack in 2023. May God prepare their hearts to have a desire to learn about Him.
Yesterday, Bro. Darryl shared about our need to and benefit from reading the Bible more. Here’s some verses you might want to add to your regular reading plan today.
John 11: 1-46
If I had seen Jesus’ tears, I would have . . . .
Have a wonderful day today. Find some ways to be encouraging to others.
For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.
Today, I’m thanking God for healing Damar Hamlin for two reasons.
First, because he is alive. Second, because his health is a result of answered prayers of many people, both. on and off the football field. I hope this will turn around the thoughts of many that say there is no place for public prayer. My prayers also include hopes that this young man will lead a Christian life that is an example for others, both on and off the football field.
Dominic Terrase
My classmate, Dominic Terrase is in ICU in Covington. I got to visit with him at a class reunion in Amite just before Christmas. He has struggled with different health issues for a while. Your prayers will be appreciated.
Tommy and Diane Simmons
This couple represents many couples where both have had winter illnesses and one is now better than the other. Pray for continue health improvement for both of them.
Yesterday at FBC, Kentwood
Yesterday, there were two opportunities for people at our church.
TheOperation Christmas Child Workday was fantastic. We had a bigger work crew than ever before and much was accomplished in a few hours. Church members had an opportunity to work with others and get to know other people. Mostly, we got to focus on being a part of children around the world having an opportunity to hear about and accept Jesus into their hearts.
We had seven first-time workers. Also, I would like to recognize the best represented Sunday School class yesterday. It was Charlie Schwartz’s men’t class. Good job ,Charlie and class members!
The people who attended the Focus on the Family Conference was also large in number. I don’t have a first-hand report of the meeting, but the number of cars there represented a large number of people who were still there when we left. I’m anxious to hear from them today.
There was yesterday another group at church yesterday. Children were in the nursery allowing their parents to attend the meeting.
Today, there are other opportunities at church.
Sunday School begins at 9:15 and morning worship at 10:30. Evening worship is at 6:00. Bro. Darryl’s morning sermon topic is “Reading Your Bible is Required” based upon Matthew 4:4.
Today’s Prayer Focus
Let’s pray for people to allow God to work in their hearts and lives at church services today.
READ the BIBLE TODAY
John 2
These different aspects of Jesus tell me . . . .
Obituaries
Russell Paul Conger, Sr.
October 30, 1947 – January 4, 2023
Russell Paul Conger, Sr. of Amite, Louisiana departed our earthly world for his eternal rest with our Lord on January 4, 2023, at the age of 75. A veteran, father, and husband; Russell was a true gentlemen with a soft spoken nature and kind heart. He was loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing him and will be dearly missed. He grew up in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, as the oldest of three boys. Russell was an exceptional student and graduated as valedictorian of the 1966 class of Belle Chasse High School. He went on to graduate from Louisiana State University in 1970 before being drafted and serving two years in the United States Army.
He began a career in personnel management before working 35 years in the banking industry. Russell notably served as the first President and CEO of People’s Bank in Amite for many years before retiring from First Bank and Trust in 2015. He was proud to be part of the Amite community, was an active member of the Rotary Club, and made many life-long friendships throughout his years.
He was a member of St. Helena Catholic Church and served on the board of the St. Vincent De Paul and of the Men of Manresa. Russell dearly loved his three dogs.
He is survived by his wife, Jeanne Collins Conger; his children Russell Paul Conger, Jr. (Nikki), Andrew Conger (Amelie), and Courtney Rasor (Chad) and their mother, Sandra Conger, and his stepdaughter Elise Curry (Scott) and stepsons Marcus Collins and Tim Collins; his brothers Mark (Laurina) and Steven Conger; his grandchildren Lainey, Russell Paul III, Chloe, Kaleb, Lucien, Margot, and Claire Conger; step grandchildren Audrey, Margaret, Eleanor, and Luke Curry; Londyn Collins and Brklyn Beale, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his mother and father, Roger Fowler and Martha Conger and his half-sister Martha Anne Conger Aroni.
Visitation will be at McKneely Funeral Home, located at 110 E Factory St, Amite City, LA 70422 on Monday, January 9, 2023 from 6:00 pm until 9:00pm and from 8:30am until 10:30am on Tuesday. A mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 am on Tuesday at St. Helena Catholic Church located at 122 S 1st St. Amite City, LA 70422. Interment will take place at Westlawn Memorial Park in Gretna at 2:00 pm. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Peggy Ann “Penny” Cox
July 9, 1945 – January 6, 2023
A resident of Albany, LA, passed away on Friday, January 6, 2023 at her home. She was born July 9, 1945 in Magnolia, MS and was 77 years of age. She is survived by 6 children, Lyle Ray Cox, Jeffery Don Cox and wife Brenda, Louis Dewayne Cox and wife Tammy, Dennis Mitchell Cox, Charmon Annessa Cox and her boyfriend Darrell Smart, and Natalie Nicole Gilmore Cox and her boyfriend, Virgil Polezcek; 6 grandchildren, Cassidy Cox, Brian Wells, Dustin Wells, Aaron Cox, Austin Cox and Tatum Cox; 10 great-grandchildren, Carter Cox, Canton Cox, Christian Menke, Brianna Wells, Chole Wells, Brynleigh Wells, Brantley Wells, Alayna Cox, Ryleigh Cox and Briella Cox; and a sister, Betty McFerrin. Preceded in death by husband, Jimmy Don Cox; parents, Percy and Louise Alford; and sister, Faye Whiddon. Pallbearers will be Cassidy Cox, Brian Wells, Dustin Wells, Aaron Cox, Austin Cox and Jim Mcferrin. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 8:00AM until religious services at 10:00AM on Monday, January 9, 2023. Services conducted by Pastor Jeff McKneely. Interment Walker Cemetery, Wilmer, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
COMING SOON!
On the 14th, at the Kentwood ball field north of town on highway 51, the boys and young men of our community will have an opportunity to participate in the first meeting of Trail Life. You might want to check this out. I understand there are many opportunities for them both in the outdoor world and to experience God working in their lives. Contact Ladd Turner for more information.
Andy and Betty Taylor continue to request our prayers.
This week, Tommy Hood learned his previous cancer tumors have not shown any growth. He also learned he has new tumors. Pray for him as he begins a new round of treatment with a B.R. doctor who was trained at M.D. Anderson. This allows his to stay at home and continue a more normal lifestyle. The family will appreciate your prayers.
Renee’ Terrell is having some jaw issues following surgery. Pray she can improve and soon.
Thelma Pierce, Luther Terrell’s neighbor, has had serious eye issues. Now, she seems to have additional eye issues. Pray for her vision.
Judy Dickinson had cataract surgery. All seems to be doing well. Please pray for that to continue.
Today’s Prayer Focus – Pray for our newly elected speaker of the house and new congressmen as they work together to help our country improve.
READ SCRIPTURE TODAY
Week 1, Day 7
John 2
These different aspects of Jesus tell me . . . .
Today is the day!– Opportunities at FBC, Kentwood
Focus on the Family Conference (Free of charge) at the Lighthouse 8:30-11:30 (Childcare provided)
OCC Workday in the fellowship hall beginning at 9:00. Grade-school children, youth, and adults are included.
1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: 2 a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, 3 a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, 4 a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, 5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, 6 a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, 7 a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, 8 a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
I was sick for a week with what many of you are having too. I’m not a doctor, but my best advice is stay home and rest while taking medication. Avoid it if you can. Pray for family members and friends that you know are going through similar symptoms.
OTHER HEALTH ISSUES
Pray for those who have surgeries and other procedures. Many of you know Estelle Warren Watson from my area. She is having surgery for shoulder issues today. Your prayers will be appreciated.
Jerry Doughty who was holpitalized recently is home. Please continue to pray for him.
Continue to pray for Andy (and Betty) Taylor. Hospitals are not like being at home.
Clarence “Jimmy” Davis, Jr.
July 5, 1965 – January 2, 2023
Services for Mr. Clarence “Jimmy” Davis, Jr. will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, January 9, 2023 in the chapel at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home in Alexandria with Brother Clint Mitchell officiating. Burial will follow in the Palmer Chapel Cemetery in Kolin.
Pallbearers will be Alton Ray, Rowdy Ray, Ridge Ray, Scott Crawford, Samuel Mitchell, and Trenton Williams.
Honorary pallbearers will be Billy Bowen, Hutch Hutchinson, Burl Brown, Brent Poche, Jerry Clark, Mike Pearson, Richard Basco, Bert Stilley, Scott Slay, and Chad Thrash.
The family requests that a visitation be observed on Sunday, January 8, 2023 at 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. and on Monday from 9 a.m. until the time of service at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home in Alexandria.
Jimmy, 57, of Pineville, was born on July 5, 1965 in Covington, and passed from this life on Monday, January 2, 2023 at his home in Pineville.
During his working life, he was the Facility Maintenance Manager with Central State Hospital. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #2952, Cenla Bowling Association, and he was an avid fan of all types of motor sports and LSU Athletics.
He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence “Skinny” Davis, Sr.
Those left to cherish in his memory include his wife, Tammy Hutchinson Davis; mother, Billie Speed Galloway; sons, Colin Glenn Davis (Devon Elaine Davis) and Chris Tyler Davis (Jessica Lynn Davis); daughter, Brittani Allison Davis (Laney Marie Davis); brother, Alton Ray (Scarlett); sister, Charlotte Prim (Steve); 2 grandsons, Connor and Zander; fur babies, Pixie, Tinkerbell, and Izzy; numerous nieces and nephews.
The family has designated, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Louisiana Hunters for Hero’s at 136 Mallard Ave. West Monroe, LA 71291 or (318) 278-2909.
READ SCRIPTURE TODAY
Luke 4: 14 – 5:11
Many people rejected Jesus because . . . .
PRAYER FOCUS TODAY: Today, let’s pray for our country as some of our leaders in Washington D.C. work for the fourth day to find leader in congress. Our prayers can make a difference.
OCC WORKDAY
Tomorrow is the day for the workshop I have been telling you about. We will have different tasks being done – some involve standing, some sitting. It is great to help prepare items for packing shoeboxes in the coming months. Best os all, today we get to work together with others who also have a heart for missions. Most of the people will be those you see at church regularly, but don’t have the opportunity to get to know. Working together on a mission project for a couple of hours helps you to get to know some other better, which is a real blessing. Join us if you are available.
Thanks to those who have contributed to OCC. You are so important in our shoebox ministry. Thank you to all who participate in any way.
These verses reminds me of this solid hymn. We may not sing it now, but is certainly is based on Scripture and such a comfort in our hectic times. I haven’t asked lately, but my daughter and son-in-law claim this hymn as their “rock”.
Great is Thy Faithfulness
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father There is no shadow of turning with Thee Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be
Great is Thy faithfulness Great is Thy faithfulness Morning by morning new mercies I see All I have needed Thy hand hath provided Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me
Summer and winter and springtime and harvest Sun, moon and stars in their courses above Join with all nature in manifold witness To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love
Great is Thy faithfulness Great is Thy faithfulness Morning by morning new mercies I see All I have needed Thy hand hath provided Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow Blessings all mine with 10, 000 beside
Thomas O. Chisholm wrote the poem in 1923 about God’s faithfulness over his lifetime. Chisholm sent the song to William Runyan in Kansas, who was affiliated with both the Moody Bible Institute and Hope Publishing Company. Runyan set the poem to music, and it was published that same year by Hope Publishing Company and became popular among church groups.[1] The Biblical lyrics reference Lamentations 3:22-23.[2] The song was exposed to wide audiences after becoming popular with Dr. William Henry Houghton of the Moody Bible Institute and Billy Graham, who used the song frequently on his international crusades.[3] Since the middle 20th century, this hymn has been the university hymn of Cairn University.
We all have family or friends we can count on to pray when we ask them to pray or who will pray for us when they see a need, without us even making a request for prayer. Thank God (and them) for being a part of our lives.
Marybelle Hayden Brumfield
June 15, 1928 – January 3, 2023
Marybelle Hayden Brumfield passed peacefully on January 3, 2023. She was born June 15, 1928 in Amite, LA where she lived her entire life. She graduated from Amite High School in 1946 and was awarded a Scholastic Scholarship to SLU. She is survived by her loving husband of almost 75 years, Donal James Brumfield. Marybelle and Donal were high school sweethearts and she chose to forfeit her scholarship to be near Donal in Baton Rouge where he attended LSU. They were married in Baton Rouge in 1948. Marybelle and Donal have two devoted daughters, Donnie Kay Gray and Judy Husband. Marybelle was lovingly known as Gran to her five grandsons, Robert Husband, Mark Husband, Joel Hendry, John Husband, and Benjamin Husband. She is also survived by six great-grandchildren, Brennley Husband, Brooke Husband, Luke Husband, Maryclare Husband, Emmelia Husband, and baby Mia due in April; sister, Yvonne Vining; and brother, Alfred Hayden. She was preceded in death by her parents, Forace and Leander Hayden; brothers, Ellis and Horace Hayden; and a sister, Gussie Stevens. Marybelle was a very special angel here on Earth. She adored her family and was completely devoted to them. She touched so many lives and was beloved by all. Her constant advice to her family was, “Always put God first in your life and you will be happy”. Marybelle was a soldier of life and her family will honor her always. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 5:00PM until 8:00PM on Friday and from 9:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Saturday, January 7, 2023. Interment Hayden Grove Cemetery, Amite, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Barbara Wicker Harris
March 11, 1958 – January 3, 2023
A resident of Clinton, LA, passed away on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born March 11, 1958 in Independence, LA and was 64 years of age. She is survived by her husband, Chuck Harris, Jr.; 2 sons, Josh Porta and wife Missy and Jason Harris and wife Amanda; granddaughter, Katelynn Jo Porta; mother, Sandra Nell Wicker; 2 sisters, Debra Lowe and husband Boyd and Cathy McIntyre and husband Mitchell. Preceded in death by father, Eliga R.N. Wicker, Sr.; brother, Eliga R.N. Wicker, Jr.; and sister, Glenda Faye McIntyre. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Friday, January 6, 2023. Services conducted by Bro. Jason Skipper. Interment Wilmer Cemetery, Wilmer, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Jimmy Davis‘ obituary is not available yet.
Sunday’s Sermons and Passages
Morning – “Reading your Bible is Required” – Matthew 4:4
Evening – “A House Divided” – 2 Samuel 2
OR “Ill Intent” – 2 Samuel 3
I think the Lord is sending us a great weather day. I hope we can all enjoy some time outside. Put it on your schedule.
Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
Jerry Doughty is home from the hospital. Please pray for continued improvements at home.
The four men whose helicopter crashed in the Gulf were found. Thanks for praying for the bodies to be located. Please continue to pray for the families. (Thanks for sharing with me, Jacob.)
Jimmy Davis, the husband of one of my former students, Tammy Hutchinson Davis, passed away. I hope I will be able to find an obituary tomorrow.
Joseph Elton Jones
August 14, 1950 – December 30, 2022
A resident of Roseland, LA, passed away on Friday, December 30, 2022 at his home. He was born August 14, 1950 and was 72 years of age. He is survived by his son, Tracy Jones; daughter, Lynn Brown and husband, Donald; grandchildren, Traci Danielle Jones, Joei Lauran Jones, Roger Brown, and Kevin Brown; great-grandchildren, Kade Lamar Garcia, Faith Garcia, Leighton Elzie, Princeton Elzie and Kai Brown; numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his wife, Gayla Jones; parents, Preston and Vinnie Jones; son, Kevin Jones; daughter-in-law, Renee Jones; brothers, Lee, Everette, R.V. and Charles; sisters, Alice and Juanita. Graveside Services will be held at Arcola-Roseland Cemetery, Arcola, LA at 1:00PM Thursday, January 5, 2023. Services conducted by Bro. David Cutrer. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
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The time is finally here!!!! After so much prayer and preparation has gone into getting this ministry ready for our young boys and young men in and around our community (ages 5-17) the kick start FUN DAY is right upon us. Please make plans to come check it out!!!!!!
This is a wonderful opportunity to get your sons,grandsons,nephews etc. involved in a Christian based program where they’ll not only be taught how to be godly young men but they’ll also learn outdoor life skills that they’ll be able to use the rest of their lives.
Trail Life USA Troop LA-6190’s launch party will be at 3:00PM on January 14th, 2022 at the KBSA ball fields on the north side of Kentwood. Troop membership is $35.00/year and registration will be available at the party. Memberships are only for boys age 5-17 and registered adult leaders. We will have a BB gun booth, archery booth, and various games available to enjoy! We will also roast hot dogs and make s’mores while supplies last! Bring your sons and come ready to have a good time!
If interested, attend the informational meeting on the 14th.
Prayer Meeting at FBC tonight
*6 P.M.
*”More Faith”
*Romans 4
Read Scripture Daily
*Psalm 110: 1-7
*Luke 2: 39-51
I would define my mission on earth as . . . .
Thanks for reading and praying. Have you thought about sharing THE PRAYER LINK with someone else lately?
Anna Lee
According to his uncle, Damar Hamlin is trying to breathe on his own better. Please continue to pray for Damar and his family.
I have been unable to post or save my prepared post from this morning. I’ll be brief.
Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.
~Psalm 33:3 NIV~
Pray for Damar Hamlin who is still hospitalized in Cincinnati because of an apparent heart attack early in the game. Pray for all the spectators in person and viewing on television. Many of those were children or even adults who had never seen anything like that. May such an event never be seen in real time on so many television screens again.
Prayer Focus
Pray for this player, the teams, the many viewers who witnessed the event last night. Pray also for future situations when an athlete is injured. May coaches and others in control always do their best to protect all the athletes, male or female, young or old, little league or professional, etc.
Two Opportunities Saturday Morning at FBC, Kentwood
Family Focus Conference – 8:30 – 11:30 in the Lighthouse (Nursery provided)
Sign up by calling the church office – 229-8111
OCC Workday – Saturday beginning at 9:00 in the Fellowship Hall
We want to encourage those who have not participated before (Children – Grades 1-6, youth, young adults – senior adults) to join us.
Please continue to pray for Andy and Betty Taylor as they experience ups and downs in McComb. Your prayers will be appreciated.
READ SCRIPTURE TODAY
Jan. 2 – Micah 5: 2
Matthew 1: 18-25
Luke 2: 1-38
If an angel had told me of Jesus’ birth, I would . . . .
OCC Workday Number One
Saturday morning at 9:00 in the fellowship hall
School age children, youth, and adults
Bring a snack to share and a school item to add to the school supplies.
Wednesday Prayer Meeting’s Topic and Bible Passage
January 4 – “More Faith” – Romans 4
PRAYER FOCUS – Pray for children and teachers ,as they have more days out of school before returning. As a teacher, I always found the first day of school after the Christmas holidays to be the second most difficult day of the school year. It will surely be extra difficult coming at the end end of the third week Pray for teachers and students this week.
Lottie Moon Christmas Offering
It’s not too late! It’s never too late to turn in a gift to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.
The “CONTACT” portion of your screen is functional again. If you have a prayer request or an update to share, please let me know.
The Prayer Link 
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