Pastor's Blog

Today’s Bible reading – Ezekiel 14:12-16:41 Hebrews 7:18-28 Psalm 106:1-12 Proverbs 27:4-6

Bro. Kerry & Miss Barbara became grandparents for the third time yesterday as their son, Steven, and his wife, Morgan, welcomed a son into this world.  I do not know the details but I do know everyone is well.  Congratulations Steven & Morgan!

The visitation with the family of Kevin Vice’s aunt takes place tonight in the Shreveport, LA area with the funeral service taking place tomorrow, 11/7.

Bro. Benny and family will be traveling to the Killeen, Texas in order to take part in the visitation for John McGath’s family.  I am not sure if they will leave tonight or early AM.  The visitation take places tomorrow night and the memorial service takes place on Monday, 11/10.

MDA in Houston is supposed to get some records or something for one of the Mobile hospitals today and then call Rusty & C to set up an appointment.  Again, I am not sure when that appointment will be but would not be surprised if it is early next week.

Spoke to Rita Vice late yesterday afternoon.  Her father’s condition is no better.  Still searching for definitive answers.

J.B. Kelley is supposed to be discharged from the hospital today.

Still praying for Roseanne Baria as she is at home recovering from her knee replacement surgery.

Rob Nevin is having some issues and needs our prayers.  Rob & Reb’s daughter, Holly, and her husband, Greg, are moving to this area in order to be closer to family.

Special offering for the asphalt project this Sunday, 11/9, in all three services.  Pray and give as the Lord leads.

I pray that you will have a great Thursday with Jesus.

I totally forgot to mention that Kevin Vice’s aunt, Bonnie Smith, passed away.  So, instead of flying to CA to be with Rita, Kevin has gone to the Shreveport, LA area for the funeral service that takes place tomorrow.  Alisha flew to CA last night to be with her mother and grandfather.  Pray for the Vice family.

Also, heard from Kerri Lastorka regarding her knee.  The doctor has ordered two weeks of PT before making a decision on surgery.  Kerri is seemingly so jealous of her brother, Kevin!  Talk about sibling rivalry!

Jun. 26, 1966- Oct. 31, 2014 Memorial services for Penny Lynn Stoudenmire Nason, 48, will be held on Wednesday, November 5th, at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home in Mobile. Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. and a celebration of her life will begin at 4 p.m. in the chapel. A reception will follow the service at the Tillman’s Corner Community Center. Penny passed peacefully at home on October 31, 2014, of brain cancer. Penny was born June 26, 1966, in Sylacauga, AL, grew up in Montevallo, AL, and moved to the Mobile area in 1990. After raising three children at home, she worked in the mortgage and banking industry before she went back to school for her Bachelor degree in Early Elementary Education at USA. After her graduation in 2010, she worked as an Elementary Teacher in various schools in the Mobile County Public School System, including her last assignment at Wilmer Elementary School. Penny was a loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend of many. She is survived by her husband, Eric Alan Nason of Theodore; daughter Shana Lynn Nason Amason (Allen Charles Amason) of Mobile; sons Adam Eric Nason (Loren Oliveria Nason) of Saraland and Taylor Blake Nason (Jennifer Nason) of Theodore; grandchildren Jaycee & Jaylyn Nason and Madelyn & Savanna Nason. She is also survived by her parents, John H. Stoudenmire and Marilynn Joyce Giddens Stoudenmire of Montevallo and brother Shane H. Stoudenmire and sister-in-law Brandy Jones Stoudenmire of Calera. She leaves behind a host of family members and friends. She is preceded in death by her grandparents Alvin R. & Annie M. Giddens and Sam H. and Vernice Helms Stoudenmire; uncles Curtis and Melvin Giddens; aunts Vivian and Betty Jean Giddens; and brother Johnny Ray Casey.

Obituary for John Lee McGath

John Lee McGath,50, of Troy passed away Monday, November 3, 2014.

A visitation will be held 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Friday, November 7, 2014 at Crotty Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Belton.

John was born March 9, 1964 to John and Joan McGath in Pine Bluff, AR. He served our coutry in the Army for over 10 years. He worked as a Manager of Security at Scott & White Memorial Hospital and had a great friendship with many of his coworkers. John married Aubrey McGath on November 12,2013 in Las Vegas. He enjoyed football, working out at crossfit UVU and Crossfit 254, and spending time with his family. He was a loving father, husband, and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

John was preceded in death by his brother, Thomas McGath.

He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Aubrey McGath of Troy; his father, John McGath; one stepson, Tanner Hernandez; two daughters, Caity McGath of Copperas Cove and Maureen McGath of West Virginia; one brother, Benjamin McGath of Alabama; one sister Cindy Jones of Alabama. Along with many other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held 2:00 P.M. Monday, November 10, 2014 at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen.

Arrangements are entrusted to Crotty Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Belton.

Today’s Bible reading – Ezekiel 12:1-14:11 Hebrews 7:1-17 Psalm 105:37-45 Proverbs 27:3

Bro. Benny McGath, our Bus Director, had his younger brother pass away Monday evening.  He lived in Troy, Texas and was only 50 years old.  I will post the obit on another entry.  Pray for Bro. Benny and family as they travel to Texas on Friday.

Bro. Jim Chinners’ had a sister-in-law, Penny Nason, to pass away last Friday, 10/31.  I will also post that obit on another entry. Pray for Bro. Jim as she will be preaching that service this afternoon.

C and Rusty will hopefully hear from MDA today.  That is not written in stone.  I am guessing they could leave at any time.  Kayla will be going with them whenever/however they travel.  Probably need to pray for Rusty being with the two Hyatt girls – LOL!

J.B. Kelley remains hospitalized.  Bro. Kerry has been with him and his older son, Danny, was traveling this way from Florida yesterday.  J. B. seemed to be in good spirits.

Regular schedule today/tonight.  Menu for the 7:30PM Bible study is pizza pizza!

Lisa and I left at 11:00AM yesterday and drove to Danville, Alabama returning home at 2:30AM today.  I was able to enjoy a meal with my parents in celebration of their 58th wedding anniversary (11/13) and to attend the revival service at Danville Baptist Church.  That afforded me the opportunity to see  family members and  many friends.  Evangelist Wade Morris preached so it was good to see/hear him too.  Dr. Jack & Joe David are doing a good job at DBC in spite of their deacons!

I pray that you will have a great Wednesday with Jesus.

Today’s Bible reading – Ezekiel 10:1-11:25 Hebrews 6:1-20 Psalm 105:16-36 Proverbs 27:1-2

First, I strongly encourage all twelve (we have added one) readers of this blog to go vote today.  You might not think your one vote makes a difference but what all twelve of us voted as a block?  Simple message – go vote!

J.B. Kelley was admitted to the hospital yesterday with fluid around his heart.  J.B. is our oldest church member and, of course, is Bro. Kerry’s father.

Amy Huhn’s mother, Gloria Morrison, met with the doctor yesterday and was told that her cancer has returned in a couple of places.  They are doing some testing to determine what type chemo to use.

Rita Vice has been in California for over a week now because her dad has been in and out of the hospital.  The reports are not looking good with low sodium count and internal bleeding.  They suspect possible cancer.  Kevin will be flying to CA later today.

Lisa Thompson was not able to receive her chemo treatment yesterday.  Rescheduled for next Monday, 11/10.

Chris & Sherry Howell take their son, Gunnar, in for some testing today to determine if the shunt he has is working properly.

Barbara Hamilton’s granddaughter, Whitney, has been in the hospital for over a week with much of that time spent in ICU.  She is now in a room and “may” be discharged tomorrow.

Peggy Knighten’s son, T.C., had carpal tunnel surgery in Birmingham last week.  Still experiencing numbness in that hand and has to be careful for the next four to six weeks.

Kerri Lastorka took a fall last week and may have to have surgery on her knee (ACL).  Jack’s story is that she fell while taking a picture – really?  She was supposed to see the doctor yesterday but I have not heard from her regarding that visit.

Daphne has really struggled with a sore mouth since last Thursday.  She got some medicine yesterday that will hopefully bring some relief.

Visited with Tony Keating in the hospital yesterday.  He will most likely remain there for another couple of days.

Also visited with the residents in the convalescent home.  Everyone seemed to be doing well with one exception.  Miss Nell seemed more confused and really had a hard time hearing.

Folks, you have a lot on your prayer plate if you pray for all of the needs listed above.

Rita Vice as going to host a baby shower at her house this Saturday, 11/8, for Whitney Bryant.  That has been postponed due to Rita being in CA with her dad.  Ladies, please take note of this postponement.

There will be a GriefShare meeting next Tuesday, 11/11, from 6:00 – 8:00PM in the auditorium.  The focus will be on how to cope with the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons after the loss of a loved one.  Open to anyone but the class size is limited and participants must register by calling the church office.

Special offering this Sunday, 11/9, for the asphalt project.

Lisa and I will be, Lord willing, out of pocket this afternoon/evening.  Regular schedule tomorrow morning and evening.

I pray that you will have a great Tuesday with Jesus.

Today’s Bible reading – Ezekiel 7:1-9:11 Hebrews 5:1-14 Psalm 105:1-15 Proverbs 26:28

Tuesday, 11/04 Ezekiel 10:1-11:25 Hebrews 6:1-20 Psalm 105:16-36 Proverbs 27:1-2

Wednesday, 11/05 Ezekiel 12:1-14:11 Hebrews 7:1-17 Psalm 105:37-45 Proverbs 27:3

Thursday, 11/06 Ezekiel 14:12-16:41 Hebrews 7:18-28 Psalm 106:1-12 Proverbs 27:4-6

Friday, 11/07 Ezekiel 16:42-17:24 Hebrews 8:1-13 Psalm 106:13-31 Proverbs 27:7-9

Saturday, 11/08 Ezekiel 18:1-19:14 Hebrews 9:1-10 Psalm 106:32-48 Proverbs 27:10

Sunday, 11/09 Ezekiel 20:1-49 Hebrews 9:11-28 Psalm 107:1-43 Proverbs 27:11

Really good services yesterday – a blessing from the Lord.  The day was capped when Elizabeth Westbrook made a profession of faith in the evening service and her husband, Dylan, joined the Friendship family by transfer of letter.  God gives the increase and we give Him the glory!

Leslie Williams’ father, Bobby Howard, came home from the hospital yesterday afternoon.  He is a happy camper!  Leslie has been very faithful to post comments on the blog to keep us updated.  I so appreciate that!

Roseanne Baria also came home from the hospital yesterday.  She too was ready!

Lisa Thompson goes for another chemo treatment today.  It “may” not happen due to the recent physical problems she has experienced.  Her sister, Brenda, is going to take her and will let me know.

C and Rusty are waiting for a call from the M.D. Anderson Hospital.  They are basically ready to go on a moment’s notice.  Kayla will travel with them.  Debbie, the brothers, and other family members will travel there if the need arises.

Pastor James Messer’s sister unexpectedly passed away yesterday morning in the Hattiesburg, MS area.  She was 76 years of age. Pray for Pastor James and his family.

Also, one of Cloverdale’s former pastors passed away yesterday morning.  I will get more information on that later today.

Big day this coming Sunday, 11/9, as we will receive a love offering for the asphalt project.  We need a miracle offering and I know God is able.  The question is not about His ability but rather about our obedience.  Pray and follow the Spirit’s leading.

Upward practice begins this week and the season begins early December.  Pray for this ministry.

If you missed last night’s service, you missed the premier of “soyandrice” films.  It was based on a true story.  I am thinking other churches i.e. Danville Baptist and ministries i.e. Michael Mason Ministries will want to use this in their respective ministries.

I pray that you will have a great Monday with Jesus.

Today’s Bible reading – Ezekiel 3:16-6:14 Hebrews 4:1-16 Psalm 104:24-35 Proverbs 26:27

Roseanne Baria should be discharged from the hospital today.  No real changes, as far as I know, in any of the other situations for which we have been praying.

Great work day at the church yesterday.  We had 23 folks present for the breakfast and 30 something (maybe 40) involved in the work.  Got a lot accomplished including burning the back forty!  (Was that intentional?)  I am very thankful to each person who helped in any way with the work.  Great day!

Regular schedule today/tonight.  Lord willing, I will be preaching in all three services.  Hope to be joined by many members of the Friendship family.

I was way wrong about the UGA/UF game!  I did not see that one coming!  Did get the UM/AU game correct plus the Arky/MSU game.  Kim’s team (USA) dropped their game to ULL.  Got the Bama outcome correct.  I would give you some predictions on the NFL games today but have no idea who is playing who.

I pray that you will have a great Sunday with Jesus.  Go to church!

Today’s Bible reading – Ezekiel 1:1-3:15 Hebrews 3:1-19 Psalm 104:1-23 Proverbs 26:24-26

A huge “thank you” to TJ & Lindsey Vice and everyone else who helped with the Hallelujah Festival last night.  I do not know how many folks passed through the doors but I do know it was a busy place.  A ministry like that is surely a “team effort” and I appreciate those who prayed, gave, came, et cetera.  It was good!

Breakfast this morning at 7:00AM followed by work day at 8:00AM.  I really believe that if enough folks come to work we can be finished by mid-morning.  We are definitely going to shut it down by noon.  Thanks in advance to those who will help.

Do not forget to “fall back” before going to bed tonight.  Yes, you gain an hour of sleep tonight.  That is good but I am still siding with State Senator Rusty Glover on this one!

C was discharged from the hospital yesterday afternoon.  Waiting on a call from M.D. Anderson as to when they go there.

I am thinking Lisa Thompson was also discharged but I do not know that for certain.

Visited with Roseanne Baria yesterday afternoon and she is doing well.  She has such a positive attitude.  Plans call for her to be discharged tomorrow.

Leslie’s father, Bobby Howard, remains hospitalized.

Lisa and I remain very excited about Daphne’s situation.  Wow!  Again, thank you for the many prayers that have been offered on her behalf.  We have heard from folks from many different places since yesterday.  We are grateful!

How about these “cooler” temps!  I love it!  Worked in the yard yesterday morning and afternoon and it felt great.  A little warm in the afternoon but much better than July.  Much more yard work to do today after the workday at the church.

Football game predictions?  Bama will not lose today.  UGA will blast UF.  (Sorry Rick & Rick)  AU will get OM in a close one (Bill, you can tell me in the morning how wrong I was!)  Arky is going to play MSU much closer than anticipated.  Can they win?  Probably not but they could make it close.  Do not take these predictions seriously!

I pray that you will have a great Saturday with Jesus.