Pastor's Blog

Melissa Bennett deBrabant, age 57, passed away, Friday, May 27, 2016.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Regena Bennett.

Melissa is survived by her husband, Randall deBrabant; son, Will deBrabant; brother, Robert (Lynn) Bennett, Jr.; sister, Beth (Rob) Streetman; four nieces, one nephew and numerous friends.

Visitation will be Monday, May 30, 2016 from 5 to 7:00 p.m. at Selma Funeral Home. A celebration of her life will be Tuesday, May 31, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at Valley Grande Baptist Church with Rev. Clarke Skelton officiating. A private burial will take place in Pineview Memory Gardens.

Melissa was an active member of Valley Grande Baptist Church where she worked with missions and led the children’s choir. She had been on mission trips to Mexico, Texas and the Philippines. She loved ballet and jazz dance. Melissa was a loving mother and wife.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the children’s ministry of Valley Grande Baptist Church 48 Co Rd 16, Valley Grande, AL 36701.

Tomorrow, 5/29, has been set aside to recognize Bro. Jerry Hovel.  The month of May marks the sixteenth anniversary of Bro. Jerry serving as our associate pastor/minister of education.  We will receive a love offering in all three services as a tangible way to show our love and appreciation to Bro. Jerry and his family.

Bro. Jerry is married to Tena and they have two sons, Josh & Luke.  Obviously, Tena is also a major part of the Friendship family.

So, join us tomorrow in celebrating Bro. Jerry’s  anniversary of serving the Lord through the Friendship family.  Pass the word!

“Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14 KJV)

Today’s Bible reading –  Psalms 111-118

Word came to me via Phil Sims this morning that Melissa deBrabant passed from this life and entered Heaven last night.  I learned this last night but I did not trust that source so I waited to hear from Phil.  Arrangements pending.  Pray for Bro. Randy and Will as they walk through this valley.

Carla Kyser was discharged from the hospital late, late yesterday afternoon.  (I am thinking that Carla went in just to see if I would come home from my vacation in order to visit her.  Guess she got her answer!  LOL!)

Vera Bosarge’s brother was hospitalized this week but I am not sure if he remains in the hospital.  Pray for him.

The Boston butts will be available on Monday morning, 5/30, at 8:30AM from the church.  Those who sold them need to be punctual in being there to get them so as not to delay Jim Chinners and his holiday plans.

Regular schedule tomorrow morning and evening.  I hope every member of the Friendship family who is in town will be in his/her rightful place.  Faithfulness is important!

I will, at some point, share some information from our trip to CP.  Lisa has gotten a million questions.  I did not take my laptop and kept my phone turned off so I did not get many.

I realize the blog has been weak this week but I took this time away pretty seriously.  Lisa, Dana & Gina had my full attention.  I spent basically zero time on the internet which is unusual for me.  Do not know if I will blog tomorrow morning or not but will get back at i come Monday.

Speaking of Monday, thank God for those who have given their lives in service to our country!

The garden and yard are calling my name!

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