We are saddened by another death of a relative, friend, and former Norwood resident, Jimmie Bradshaw of Mountain Grove. He was born in Norwood and graduated at Norwood High School. He is my husband’s second cousin. He was also a good friend and worked 33 years for Town and Country…
We were pleased to have Richard Lorenz visit us at last week’s meeting. Mr. Lorenz gave a very interesting presentation on area one room school houses with pictures of dozens of those in Douglas and Ozark counties At this week’s meeting, we will celebrate birthdays of our president, Glenda Little…
Joyce Inman The Finley River is up again as I write this weekly report, you can see that it is almost ready to cross the bridge. It sure did rain a lot around here. However, we are hopeful that it is a nice sign that spring is here. It was…
Janet Taber The Ava 4-H Club is really growing, and as the weather warms their activities are also heating up, according to community service project leader Cleta Sweeney. Kids are taking part in their choice of beef and dairy cattle, cooking, horse and dog projects, while the entire group participates…
Thanks to Glenda, Connie, Dolores and Denise who worked at Pizza Hut for us last Thursday night! We received $32 in tips and will have to wait until the check arrives to see what we got for our 20 percent. Glenda and Donna did a Terrific Kids Presentation on Monday…
“A wise man is strong, yea a man of knowledge increaseth strength, ” Proverbs 24:5. Monday morning I went to Gainesville nursing home to visit with Lee Roy Clayton and Roberta came later. I also saw Debbie Degase for a few minutes. In the afternoon Gary and I went to…
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law, ” Galations 5:22-23. Brother Roy Frye read the devotion after congregational singing. Pastor David prayed then Brother Roy dismissed us to our classes. Brother Bobby Turley took…
Get well wishes to Tiffany Ayala of Kansas who fell and broke her foot. Donna Dodson and Macee Breeding were here on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Reece and Megan went to the dentist on Monday. Reece Goforth stayed with me Thursday eveing while Keith, Melanie, Quin and Macee went…
Here we are this Monday morning after a heavy rain late Sunday and it is cold out there today, but good weather after today is promised. I should not complain after what has happened in other parts of our world. In spite of the change in time all was in…
March 9 – Wednesday came together at Caney by singing. Bro. Jeff Shipley welcomed everyone. Prayer requests were received and Bro. Jim Lafferty led our hearts in prayer. Jeff read Joel 1:1-6, 13-20, 2:1-2, 12-19, 27-32, and 3:1-3. The Lord was trying to get peoples attention even as He is…
Another rainy afternoon. We had good services at Frye Church this morning. Sure was good to have Gaither and Pat back with us. Ken came this morning for a few minutes before time to go to church. His horses was out of hay. I’m great grandma again. Josh and Laura…
Good morning or good evening when ever you get your newspaper. I hope it is a good day for you. Me and our dog, Go On, has had rather a leisure life. Now James has retired trying to keep up with him has wore me and the dog both out. …
A good Tuesday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a good week. Saturday was a beautiful day in the afternoon. We hope no one was caught out in the rainstorm that we had on Sunday. We also had some pea size hail in some places. Well so…
Last week was another busy one. Monday evening Barb, Jack, Bob Susie and Erika, Bob, Linda and myself met in town for supper celebrating early for my 93rd birthday, which was the 9th. On Wednesday, Bob, Linda and I went to Mtn. Grove and met Bob and Susie, (again celebrating)…
Opening prayer was led by Joie Welker for our Sunday service. The congregation was dismissed to Sunday school classes where our lesson was on “Qualifications For Spiritual Leaders.” Spiritual leadership means godly leadership. God’s work is a matter of eternal life and death. Our special for the morning was by…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent and prayer was given by Bro. James Moore. Sunday school lesson was The Betrayal Exposed, John 13:18,21,26-27 and 34-38 taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson, we sang several songs. Bro. Raymond Haden brought the…
During Wednesday night Bible study we finished up our study on the twelve apostles of Christ. We had 10 attend service. We were also blessed to be able to start a women’s prayer meeting. We were few in number, but not in spirit! I don’t think that the Lord judges…
Today has been another great day in the Lord. The Lady Quilters at Faith Rock Church had a day of quilting, fellowship and we had a lot to pray about. Bro. Benny Dewitt brought the message Sunday morning on ”Who Is God” using several different scripture from The Holy Bible…
Sunday school opened with a big hello from Bro. Marshall. We had a song and then prayer requests. There were many. We have a lot of sickness among our brothers and sisters in Christ. They need your prayers. We were glad to see Bro. Paul with us today. He and…
Though it was a gloomy day outside, it was a good day to be in God’s house. We have many things to be thankful for, however, we continue to pray for the many needs of our church, community and nation. Brother Dennis read from John 4, a very familiar story…
The time change may have been the main reason for the lower attendance at Red Bank Church this Sunday. I know that it had an effect on me. My husband got up Sunday morning and told me it was 7:00. I sleepily got out of bed and made my way…
If folks get too much “into spring” we might remind ourselves of the year 1988, when we had a 16” snow on April 15th, and we should remember “settled” weather doesn’t usually happen until after Easter time, and that is April 24th this year. It was nice to hear from…
Well if I live two more days, I will have another birthday. And the weather is supposed to be nice for me. We plan to go to Muscatine that day and Walt will buy my lunch for my birthday. And I will get to see granddaughter Lisa and the other…
Teenagers, especially young teens, will go to great lengths to be liked. Popularity is a must. It is important to be noticed and thought well of in whatever group teens move in. Adults carry some of this same need for approval with them, too. For instance, a neighbor some years…
Champions have felt little earthquakes in recent weeks. They are unsettling. As tragedies unfold in other parts of the world, Champions take a moment to reflect on their relative security and their great good fortune. An individual’s fate can turn on a dime, so can the fate of a nation. …
Spring break is this week and I hope everyone is enjoying being out of school. I hope the weather cooperates a little and is nice most of the week so they can enjoy some outdoor time. We attended church at Lone Star last Sunday morning and got to see and…
The Jubilee Singers sang a special song in the Sunday morning service. Dan Stillings sang a special song in the evening. Pastor Bob Sorensen brought a message he called “How To Know If You Are Lost.” You can know what your spiritual condition is by studying scriptures. Romans 10:13 says,…
Harold and Kay Hutchison visited with Tom and Jewell Johnson one day last week. Janice Keith also visited with them in the week. Billy Fletcher has had quite an experience. He had been out for supper with friends at Larkin’s last Tuesday evening. When he returned home and stepped out…
Brother Roberts brought the morning message from ll Kings 7:3-9, “Do We Care About Those Left Behind?” Sister Maxine Lund brought the evening message from Psalm 15:2-5. The second of a series of four dealing with Behavior, “The five things that influence our behavior are Speech, Thoughts, Attitudes, Beliefs, Values…
The season of Lent began on Wednesday, March 9 with our Ash Wednesday service consisting of the Litany or General Supplication followed by the imposition of the ashes. The Litany is a service asking for God’s mercy which is chanted by the priest with responses by the congregation; chanting is…
Bonnie Phipps said she went to church Sunday and was doing okay. Carol Moore came last Monday night and picked me up and then we went over and got Marie Dickey and we all went to our O.E.S. meeting. Monica came up last Tuesday and went with me to Dorothy…
Sunday school opened with prayer. Bro. Dan led the singing, the little ones took up penny march. Bro. Dan filled in teaching. Darrel and Helen was missed. They took a trip to Kansas. There was special singing. Esther Hankins sang with the little ones. Pastor Garry Hall preached from Hebrews,…
Well here we are again and it still is not spring. This writer is really ready for some sunshine. We had a good service, but few in number. Opening Sunday school Joe Lafferty read the 54th Psalm. Wilma Hampton led in prayer. Lee Hampton taught the 13th chapter of Mark…
Well here we are again and it still is not spring. This writer is really ready for some sunshine. We had a good service, but few in number. Opening Sunday school Joe Lafferty read the 54th Psalm. Wilma Hampton led in prayer. Lee Hampton taught the 13th chapter of Mark…
If you did not have a wonderful Lord’s Day this past Sunday you certainly missed a good chance. We enjoyed the beautiful day and had a joyful time in the Lord, “We wish you had been here to share it with us.” The morning message was from Ezekiel 22:20. God…
“A wise man is strong, yea a man of knowledge increaseth strength, ” Proverbs 24:5. Monday morning I went to Gainesville nursing home to visit with Lee Roy Clayton and Roberta came later. I also saw Debbie Degase for a few minutes. In the afternoon Gary and I went to…
“I am the good shepherd and know my sheep, and am known of mine,” John 10:14 Brother Roy Frye read the devotion and dismissed us to classes after congregational singing. Happy Birthday March 7th to Nancy Bailey and March 9th to Preston Adams. Hunter Adams and Austin Maggard did the…
Donna Dodson and Macee Breeding were here on Monday and Thursday. John and Jo Stephens were in Springfield on Wednesday. Gene and Rheba Pool went to Springfield on Wednesday. Donna, Macee, Megan and Quin visited with Gene and Rheba Tuesday evening then was here. Reece was here also. Melanie Breeding…
March 2 – We came together Wednesday evening at Caney to praise, worship and study God’s word. We started with congregational singing. Bro. Jack Essary welcomed everyone to service. Prayer reports and praise reports were given. Sis. Lila Roberts led in a prayer. Jack read James 5:5-20. You will be…
Wendee Freeman took Bonnie Phipps to Springfield last Tuesday to see her doctor for a check up. Last Monday was the last day of February and I received five-tenths of an inch of rain. By Saturday morning I had one and one tenths of an inch of rain in my…
A good Tuesday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a safe and good weekend. The weather is some what better, but still cold winds, that is strong at times. God has blessed us again as the storms and quakes are all around us and no real damage…
During Wednesday night Bible study we had a good lesson. We have been studying on the inner twelve disciples to Jesus Christ. This week we studied on Brothers, James and John, sons of Zebedee and their roles in discipleship to Christ. During Sunday morning services we started out by taking…
It has been a cool, wet morning here in Ava on this Tuesday. It’s our quilting day and most of our regulars are here today and we always enjoy our time together. We want to say happy birthday to Sis. Jean Heinlein, Sis. Dessie Miller and Bro. Jerry Miller. We…
“Finally brethren pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified even as it is with you,” II Thessalonians 3:1. My sympathy to the Ed Jackson family. A week ago Tuesday when I was at Ralph and Dana Brazeal’s home Dara, Howard and…
On Tuesday, March 8, our church was much involved in the funeral of Dorothy Siler. She was truly a pillar in our church. She served as Church Clerk for 35 years; as deacon’s wife, she did many things to fulfill those duties; as Sunday School teacher for many years and…
We began with many prayer requests and singing and thankful to be in God’s house once more. We are glad for prayers that have been answered in our church and others. Our prayers are for the bereaved and the very ill. Brother Dennis had a good message all about grace.…
3-7-11. Well we made it to March. I’m sure glad to see it here even though it is just a few more days until my birthday. Then I’ll be 39 again. We have sure had a bad winter, but that’s been all over. I don’t remember a time in my…
Daylight Savings Time begins March 13, so get ready to turn clocks ahead an hour and St. Patrick’s Day is just ahead on the 17th. The “annual” concert of Green Valley Grass now Bob Hammons and Wildwood will be at Mammoth Church on Saturday night, March 12. The March Lilly…
Last week was a busy one for me and Dick. We praise the Lord for the good rains and they finally graded our road. The Rome road was getting almost impossible to drive on in some spots. The flu bug and strep hit the Thompson house for over a week,…
Good morning to everyone. It’s a cloudy, rainy, windy morning, but it is still a good morning since it is the beginning of another day that the Lord has given us to use for His glory. No matter what comes our way, there is always something we can do to…
Last weeks news – Lets hope a late Easter means a early spring. They say those little peeper frogs hollowing in February means snow and we got some. I remember going to Eastern Gate Church and hearing them in Larry Hutchinson’s pond by the road. I said something to Jane…
What? That’s how it starts. I Corinthians 6:19 begins with that single word. One can almost imagine how incredulous Paul is when he writes that in a letter he is sending to the church at Corinth. Don’t tell me, you’ve had a little brain lapse and forgot that your body…
There was lots of friends and family gathered together last Sunday for the baby shower for Julie and Scott Lawson. They got so many nice things for their baby and said they were thrilled and appreciated everything they got. Baby Lawson is due sometime the first two weeks of April…
In Champion the reason for hope is always there. People looking on the bright side always have something to look forward to with optimism for a good outcome. Emily Dickinson said, Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul, and sings the tunewithout the words, and never…
Sam Frye visited with Tom and Jewell Johnson one evening last week. Sam talks by phone with his sisters, Lena Sears in Rockford, Illinois, Hester Ranick in Rochelle, and Maxine Levan in Bettendorf, Iowa. They are still doing pretty well. Sam had also talked with sister-in-law, Lois Pellham in Moses…
Bethany Baptist Church had visitors at the Wednesday evening prayer meeting. Jonathan Williams, missionary on deputation for Central America, sang a couple of songs first in English and then in Spanish. His father, Bill Williams, long-time missionary to Mexico, gave his testimony and preached for us. Jonathan was to be…
Morning service was opened with prayer requests, prayer, music and welcoming. Sister Tillie Fowler sang a beautiful song for a special. Brother Roberts brought the message from Luke 8:26-39, “Go And Tell.” Sister Maxine Lund brought the evening message, the first in a series of how we should live our…
We had good services Sunday. Bro. Dan opened up in prayer and led us in some congregational singing. The girls took up the penny march. Bro. Darrel Webster brought a good lesson in Luke. Bro. Garry Hall brought a good message from John 4:6, Isaiah 4:4 and John 7:37-38, Water…
Church started out Sunday morning with singing. Ronnie Epps took over as Superintendent. Brother Woodrow Coonce did a prayer. The Sunday school lesson was about the humility of Jesus, taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson, we sang several songs. Brother Raymond Haden brought the message. After…
Opening prayers to start our Sunday morning worship was by Doug Miller. After congregational singing, our Sunday school lesson was “Instructions About Worship”. Some different forms of worship are singing God’s praises, joy and clapping, praying for all people, giving thanks and praying for our leaders. Our special song of…
I stayed in and rested Sunday while Bob and Linda went to church. I’m seeing my rhubarb popping through the ground, lillies and other flowers coming up. Tina, Joe and girls visited with Barb, Jack and Miracle one day. Sunday evening Barb, Andy and Aimee invited us to their home…
The Lord has blessed us with some much needed rain, wonderfully mild weather and His beautiful good news of salvation. This Lord’s Day our morning message was taken from the fifth chapter of the gospel of Luke. We looked at the “Before And After” examples of men’s lives from the…
Opening Sunday school Roy Hampton reading Mark 13: 35, 36, 37. Lee Hampton taught the adult class in Mark 12. We had good attendance, some of the sick ones are better. Wilma Hampton asked the questions and we answered, then asked more questions for next week. Lee Hampton led the…
Sunday, March 6 was Quinquagesima, or the Sunday next before Lent, approximately 50 days before Easter. It is an ancient Christmas tradition to celebrate just before the beginning of the austercity of Lent resulting in such traditions as Mardi Gras (French for Fat Tuesday) in New Orleans and Carnival in…
Our weather is coming one day sunshine and the next cloudy. I did get to clean up in the yard some this past week. The daffodils arein full bloom and deep color. At Seminole Sunday morning Chris Highfield, our youth pastor, gave a very good message from John 20: 18-31; …
Well a great big hello from my house to yours. Finally after all the snow and ice and then down with my back and hip hurting I couldn’t get around very good. I’ll try to catch up on what’s happening here on our hillside. We had good services at Frye…
Rosie Miller On this Transfiguration of Our Lord, March 6, we began with the Bible readings as follows: Exodus 24:12-18, Psalm 2 and the New Testament 2 Peter 1:16-21, Gospel: Matthew. Our lector was Laura Wittorff. Pastor Wayne Strohschein’s sermon today was based on the lesson from Matthew 17:1-9, there is an…
By Ruth Bradshaw Last week I forgot to put in my items about the surprise birthday and get well party for Dee Dee Moore of Mountain Grove. It was held in the airport building west of the city. A large crowd attended and there were so many good things to…
The weather is beginning to be a bit warmer and we are gearing up for a busy spring ahead! Our guest last week was Teresa Graham who is a former member of club. Topics of discussion were Pizza Hut Fundraiser and Kiwanis One Day project on April 2. In other…
Joyce Inman We are ready for spring in this area of the world! I keep hearing folks say that the Farmer’s Almanac in calling for another bad spell at the end of the month. I sure hope they are wrong about that! I am sorry that we missed the event…
Sharon Marler Upcoming Events are: March 13- time springs forward and our Movie Night-”Flywheel”-time will be from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Invite a friend. Prayer Requests: Memphis Helsley, Military, Missionaries, Phyllis Virtue, Bob Short, Wayne Jones, Christy Simpson, Lannie Ellis, Van Renfrow, Josh Scott, Monte Housley, Dwayne Serghides and Missy, and all…
By River Stillwood Spring is gradually making its way into the Ozarks. Tendrils of warmth are weaving their way through the late-winter cold. The sound of joyful honking filters down as geese fly to their northern homes. Bald eagles are leaving. Turkey buzzards are returning. Young grasses stretching toward the…
“Let there be light.” It’s right there in Genesis 1:3. It’s the first mention of light. Light and the desire for it has held center stage on this earth for centuries. Man’s quest to obtain it and have it is just as meaningful today as it was in the early…
Carey and Jessica Hendricks and their twin daughters, Elle and Anne, were guests at Bethany Baptist Church, Sunday. Carey and Jessica are on deputation raising support so that they can go as missionaries to the Republic of Ireland. Carey started attending church when he was nine years old. His brother…
George and Donna Dale, Jean Daugherty, and Billy Fletcher drove to Lebanon for a visit with Ray and Janet Davis, Saturday. Carol Riggs, Doris Holman, Stanley Goodrich, and Billy Fletcher went to the home of Fred and Charlie Lindberg for Pizza, Sunday. Norma Stillings made her usual visits to the…
Feb. 23 – Caney came together Wednesday evening by singing. Bro. Jeff Shipley took charge of the service taking prayer requests and praise reports. Sisl Charlotte Roberts led our hearts in prayer. Jeff read II Peter 2:1-4, I Peter 2:1-4, stay in the word don’t be led astray by false…
“And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength; this is the first commandment, ” Mark 12:30. Please pray for Mike Jones, Don Graham and Jr. Berry, Marvin Graham, Gene and Rheba…
Bonnie Phipps said she got out and went to church Sunday, but didn’t get out last week to do anything. Last Monday I received one and a half tenths of an inch of rain and on Wednesday I received another four-tenths of an inch of rain. On Thursday I had…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintindent and prayer was given by James Moore. Sunday school lesson was, The Close of Public Ministry, John 12:12-14 and 20-28 taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson we sang several songs then prayer by Sister…
It was great to have our visitors; please come again. You are always welcome in our Lord’s house. We began with reading from Isaiah 2 followed by singing. We sang happy birthday to Rick Crum and Jim Harris. We sang happy anniversary to Judy Wilson. Prayer requests were given for…
Wednesday night Bible study we are studying on the twelve disciples of Christ. This week we went over borthers Simon, Peter and Andrew. Sunday morning we had 17 attend services. We started out with taking our prayer requests to the Lord before dismissing to Sunday school. The children’s Sunday school…
Everyone was glad to be in God’s house Sunday morning, it was a beautiful day. Our group was small for our 4th Sunday night singing, however we had good specials and great food, a good combination. Mae Cox’s company last week was Lisa Johnson and Jesse. Mae spoke to her…
Here we are going into March, which we hope will be a good month, all 31 days! Though we are getting spring fever we will have to postpone some early planting until weather is settled and the ground is warmer. Daffodils, forsythia and early bulbs can take colder weather, and…
Dick and I stopped to see Helen Dobbins one day last week. It was one of those cold, rainy days. She is doing pretty good, like the rest of us, waiting for warmer weather. We stopped to see Peggy at the nursing home to see how she was, but Randy…
That was quite a storm we had to come through late Sunday night, happy to hear no one had a tornado, but many felt the shake from the earthquake in Arkansas. I hope the sun keeps its promise and comes out this afternoon. In spite of this weather the daffodil…
Hello everyone. We had a little bit of scary weather lately, but prayers were again answered and we were protected from it all. Anyway, it is a beautiful, warm, calm day today. We should be thankful and honor our God who provided it for us. I am not only thankful…
Church business elsewhere caused the pastor to be in services south of the border this last Lord’s Day (the Arkansas/Missouri borader that is), so Brother Ray Dobbs graciously came and brought a message from the story of the blind Bartimeus, at the end of the tenth chapter of Mark. Before…
Last weeks news – Donna Dodson and Macee Breeding were here on Monday. Macee stayed with me on Wednesday while Donna went to a meeting at work. John and Joe Stephens visited Lisa Hensley of Hartville Thursday. Donna, Macee an I went to town on Friday. I had blood work…
Last weeks news -Things are about the same on Little Creek and I have very little news, but “no news is good news” so I’ve heard. Anyway, I’ll write as things progress and maybe someone will call or come by in addition to my family. They seem to comprise my…
“But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the son, but the Father, ” Mark 13:32. I received word Monday that my aunt, Roxie Marie Clayton Roberts in Kennewick, Washington died at the age of 94. She was my…
We had a good singing and fellowship Saturday night. Those who were there received a blessing. Hope to see you at the singing in March. Sunday school opened with a song and a big hello from Bro. Marshall. We had prayer requests and there were many. Sister Mary led in…
Things that happen each year, but they never fail to thrill me. Crocus blooming! One little bunch of crocus is blooming in my front yard. They are a bright yellow and look so cheery against the brown grass and leaves around them. This certain bunch has been here for at…
So, how’s your prayer life? Bro. Oren’s messages all month have reminded us how important prayer is. This week’s scripture was from John 14: 1-14. Jesus’ words still speak to us today. Do not let your hearts be troubled but trust in God and trust in Jesus. The way to…
Sunday morning service was opened with prayer requests and prayer. Brother Bill and Sister DeDe Arington and Brother Randy and Sister Venita Brummet led the praise songs and welcome service. Brother Roberts brought the morning message from Malachi 3:8-10, “Stewardship Of Our Money.” There were several people out with sickness…
Opening prayer for the morning service was said by Joie Welker. After congregational singing, everyone went to their Sunday school class of which the lesson was “Coming Of The Son Of Man.” Our Lord Jesus has not left us without warnings of the things coming to pass. We need to…
Sure signs of Spring in Champion include the emergence of many forgotten bulbs and the swelling of certain buds, and unsettled weather—hot, cold, windy, and wet—all in the space of a few hours. Robins and buzzards come home and watch the geese going farther North. There are subtle shifts in…
Sunday, February 27 was sexagesima (Latin for 60th) or approximately 60 days before Easter, second in the three “gesima” Sundays in the ancient church tradition of a pre-lenten season. Altar and vestment colors continue to be dark blue in keeping with the solemnity of the season. Fr. Glen based his…
It seems like we are having trouble getting spring to stay. Maybe when it finally gets here, it will stay. Joe Lafferty opened Sunday school reading the 75th Psalms. Clara Lafferty led the opening prayer. Lee Hampton taught the adult class lesson in the eleventh chapter of St. Mark, the…
Barb, Jack and Preston visited me on Monday and brought some wood in for me. Sunday I went to church with Bob, Linda and their friend, Christina. On Wednesday, I played music at the barbershop with the guys. I talked to Violet and Hugh by phone and they were doing…
The Finley River is almost over its bridge on Z Highway as I write this report. Sounds like several communities were hit hard by this early spring storm. We are thankful that we came through everything alright. Sunday we celebrated my husband’s birthday with cake after church. We were joined…
February is almost gone and the third month of this year begins. No sunshine yet today, but no snow either, so guess we’re doing pretty good. The Macomb Sunshine Club met Wednesday at the Lion’s Den in Mansfield with five members present. They were Marilyn Wilson, Loretta Hall, Ruth Bradshaw,…
On this 8th Sunday after Epiphany we began with the Bible readings as follows: Isaiah 49:8-16a, Psalm 131, the New Testament: 1 Corinthians 4:1-5, Gospel: Matthew 6:24-34. Our lector was Jerry Johnson. Pastor Wayne Strohschein’s sermon today was based on the lesson from Matthew 6:24-34 where Jesus tells us, “Don’t worry.” It seems…
With the weather turning warmer, it’s nice to be able to get back into a regular routine of meetings. On Feb. 24, we welcomed February Citizens of the Month, some family members and Assistant Principal David Williams. We always look forward to our citizens meeting on the 4th week of…
By River Stillwood I’m a dog person. Always have been. Don’t get me wrong, I like cats. I’ve even had one so near and dear to my heart that when he died, I wept for days. He came to me late one night during finals week my first year of…
By Ethel McCallie Well, howdy doody, there, all of you nice lovely and friendly folks in good ole Ava, Missouri, which I consider my home state, and town. I just had to write and tell you about all the snow we have here in Oklahoma. It was 17 inches deep…
-15-11. Happy Valentine’s Day – a day late. I didn’t go anywhere yesterday or do anything special. Walt and I exchanged cards and he gave me a little box of chocolates. I gave him a shirt, but it didn’t fit so I gave it to my son-in-law for his birthday…
Sunday morning service was opened with music, praise and welcome then prayer. Brother Waylon Souder did a beautiful job on the special song before the message. Brother Roberts brought the message from II Peter 3:9, “The Lord Is Not Slack Concerning His Promise.” Sunday evening service was opened with congregational…
Anyone called to preach has a special burden and a special responsibility. Paul was set on such a path. Jesus, the caller, filled this man’s heart with the desire to bring the gospel to everyone who would hear him. That’s the responsibility part. The burden part is knowing that there…
The peepers have started their annual spring concert and I love to hear them. A week of spring weather is always welcome even if we have to give it up again for awhile. I do realize it is still winter. I have lived long enough that I do realize that…
An exciting week in Champion brings news of a Valentine gift to beat all gifts. Shelby Elizabeth Ward was born at 6:00 a.m. on Valentine’s Day! Everyone is well and there is a long line of Face-book friends and family saying, “Congratulations!” and good wishes abound. What if when Richard…
Praise the Lord, didn’t He give us a most beautiful weekend. If we didn’t know it was still February we might have been convinced that spring had sprung. Our only regret this Lord’s Day was that some of you enjoyed the beautiful weather so much that you either stayed home…
Opening prayer for Sunday morning was by Joie Welker. After congregational singing, our Sunday school lesson was “Jesus Came To Serve.” One of the churches’ goal is to serve one another and we cannot be true servants if we are competing with each other for power and popularity and this…
Sunday school opened with prayer. Dan led the singing. The little ones took the penny march. Bro. Darrell Webster taught the Bible class. We enjoyed his teaching. We had special singing. Esther sang with the little ones in the class. It was good. Pastor Garry Hall preached from Romans, chapter…
Roy Hampton opened Sunday school reading I John 2 and led in prayer. Lee Hampton taught the tenth chapter of Mark. The subject was on “Jesus Law of Divorce.” We had questions and answers and more for next week. We took up the morning offering. Lee Hampton led the offering…
Well with the white stuff gone we were able to get back to church at Happy Home. It seems like forever since we were here to sing and praise the Lord. Bro. Paul opened Sunday school with a great good morning. He was filling in for Bro. Marshall, who we…
(Last Week’s News) We had many visitors, family and friends of Pastor Neal, come to surprise him celebrating his 10th year as Pastor. He greeted them with “good morning, so glad you are here”. He was surely surprised so LeaAnn, Mom and Dad did a good job. Many prayer requests…
Freeda Holt, Larry Haden, and Bill Haden visited with Tom and Jewell Johnson last week. Of course they had family coming and going as well. Norma Stillings went to the Ladies Bible Study last Thursday morning at Bethany Baptist Church, she attended a Hospice Volunteer meeting that afternoon at the…
The ladies of Bethany Baptist Church met for their Bible Study, Thursday morning. They are finishing the lessons from “A Woman After God’s Own Heart” by Elizabeth George and will be starting a new study in the next few weeks. Next Sunday, February 27, the church will have missionaries Carey…
Sunday, February 20 was Septuagesima, Latin for seventy, meaning approximately 70 days before Easter, a pre-Lenten season of three Sundays before Lent, an ancient Christian tradition observed today only in Anglican churches. Altar and vestment colors are dark blue in keeping with the solemnity of the season. Fr. Glen based…
A good Tuesday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a great weekend. It is kind of on the cool side this morning. May be warmer as the day goes on. We send get-well wishes to all the sick, the ones in the hospitals and the nursing homes.…
Bonnie Phipps guests Friday evening for her birthday supper were Roy and Linda Sue Freeman, Michael and Wendee Freeman, Madison, Sydnee and Alexis, Cecilia Edwards, Ken and Debbie Cederlind, Moe and Kaylynn Todd. She then had a call from her other granddaughter, Courtnie Vigessa wishing her a happy birthday. Chili,…
I guess we’re all back to cold weather again, but spring is just around the corner. I cleaned a little in a flowerbed because the easter lilies are getting ready to bloom. We are quilting today and enjoyed eating lunch out today. We appreciate Kathleen Sparks for the new material…
Wednesday night Bible study we had a good lesson on “How To Withstand Temptation.” We went over the tools given to us to do so and our rewards for endurance. We only had ten people attend Bible study, but we had a great discussion. Sunday morning we had twelve attend…
Hello everyone. It’s a beautiful day out today. I took a walk to my mailbox and back to get a little exercise and some fresh air in my lungs. The air was a little brisk outside, but the sun was shining so I didn’t mind. I felt much better by…
After a break in the weather, our congregation was glad to be back Sunday morning. We had a good Sunday school lesson and continued to pray for the many, many needs of our church families, nation and community. Brother Dennis’s thought Sunday morning was from Matthew 14:21, feeding the 5…
We had another week of nice weather. February is almost gone and March will be here before we know it. Tony and Cody Richards were here over the weekend. Also Buddy Quessenberry of Seymour was with Tony. Buddy was a young boy when he came here and fished with Jack.…
Feb. 16 – Caney Church came together Wednesday evening by singing. We need the moisture and nitrogen, but we’re surely glad to see the snow leave. Bro. Jim Lafferty took charge of the service. He took prayer requests. Sis. Lila Roberts led in prayer. Jim read Isaiah 56. He spoke…
We celebrate President’s Day on February 21, and spring begins just a month away on March 20 according to the calendar. Norine Loftis had her brothers and sisters dropping by and her children also as she celebrated a birthday this Tuesday, the 22nd of February. Karen K. Davis and I…
The north pole weather has got much better. Maybe we will go into Hawaii weather. Just as well, think good thoughts. Feb. 11 – Angie Smith called Friday evening and her dad, Tom Pettit was scheduled for open heart surgery Saturday morning. We went up Saturday morning. He had a…
This is a beautiful, calm, cool morning this Tuesday. Although I do hope we get more rain this week. It was 22 degress this morning. I rode the Oats bus into Ava last Monday and got my protime test. I always enjoy riding the bus and visiting with Paulette, the…
We had a busy weekend. Saturday we went to the home of Bevy and Gary Moore. They hosted a birthday party for my niece, Margaret Rosseau. Several friends and family members attended. Saturday night, I went with Bob and Linda to another birthday barbeque for Billie Gail. Jake surprised her…
We did have some beautiful weather this past week. It put all that snow behind us. This Monday was chilly, but did have some sun out in the afternoon. It did look good out there. It was a good morning to be in church service Sunday at Seminole with Pastor…
Happy Birthday to my husband, Junior. We will be celebrating his birthday this week and I wish him a special birthday wish. Sunday afternoon, I had the best time with friends after morning worship service. We ate at Grillo’s with daughter, Jeanette Evans; grandchildren, Nicholas and Sarah Inman; great granddaughter,…
We are enjoying the warm weather and sunshine. Hope the real cold weather is over. Of course we still have some winter left. Spring is my favorite season. Sympathy is sent to the Norman Anderson and Jerry Richardson families, also to the family of Lorene (Raney) Bennett of Macomb. The…
On this 7th Sunday after Epiphany we began with the Bible readings as follows: Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18, Psalm 119:33-40 and the New Testament 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Gospel: Matthew 5: 38-48. Our lector was Donna Hamm. Pastor Wayne Strohschein’s sermon today was based on the lesson from Matthew 5:38-48. He focused on…
The Douglas County Public Library is finally starting to get some more federal IRS tax forms and instructions in to distribute to the public. The Missouri tax forms will still need to be obtained online. Among the new books at the library you will find: FICTION The Search, by Suzanne…
Two guests attended the Lion’s meeting of the evening of Feb. 21. One guest was Preston Brooks who is a friend of Lion John Weisbrod. The other guest was Jessica Jenkins who has headed up the Ava Community Playground Project. She explained that about 1500 volunteers are needed to help…
With the snow and ice now only a memory, it was good to be able to gather at Highway House again on Thursday, Feb. 17, for our weekly meeting! Spring is “right around the corner” and we are gearing up for an eventful time ahead. On Tuesday Feb. 22, we…
Saying Good-bye By River Stillwood 17 February It’s Thursday evening, 8:33, and I’m sitting in a cramped seat on a nonstop flight from St. Louis to Washington, DC. It’s an unexpected trip. I arrived back from San Diego and Phoenix only two days ago after a terrific visit with my…
What a thrill it is to have this warm sunshine come out and melt all of this white stuff. It will all be gone by the end of this week from our weather man’s report. Sunday at Seminole was a happy day, pastor Don’s message from John 13:34-35 was on…
It was good to be back in church. Bro. Dan opened up in prayer then led in some congregational songs. The children then took up the penny march. Bro. Darrel Webster taught a good lesson. We sure enjoy his teachings. We sure enjoyed Esther and her Sunday school class singing…
Feb. 13 – Sunday school opened with singing. It was truly a blessing to be back in church. Bro. Jack Essary welcomed everyone and prayer requests were given. Bro. Jeff Shipley led in prayer. Jack read Malachi 4:1-6 for our devotion. After a great Sunday school lesson happy birthday was…
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life,” John 3:16. The greatest gif of love ever given was from God to all of us. All we have to do is accept that gift.…
On Monday John and Jo Stephens and I went to Mtn. Grove to Earl Fleetwood’s visitation. My sympathy to the families of Earl Fleetwood, Betty Riley, Kenneth Driskell and I read in the paper that Nonearl Singleton had died. We were old friends and our families shared a lot of…
Pastor Denny Dewitt brought a great message Sunday morning titled “Running From God.” His scripture was the story from Jonah 1 and Matthew 12:39-41 and II Kings 14:25. The scriptures were all pertaining to Jonah and what can happen when we run from God’s doing His will. Bro. Bob Fleetwood…
“What shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” Mark 8:37. My sympathy to the families of Eddie Turner, Colleen McCoy, Betty Riley, Linlie Turner and Edwina Schrock. I wish for better health for my cousin, Lee Roy Clayton, who is in Mtn. Home, Arkansas hospital now and to…
Opening prayer was given by Joie Welker to start off our Sunday morning service. After congregational singing, we went to our Sunday school classes. Our lesson was “This Is My Beloved” out of Mark 9:2-13. The transfiguration was the topic. Peter, James and John were priviledged to witness this while…
At last the snow is almost gone and the weather is so much warmer. It stayed so bitter cold so long. It is a while before spring. We know we will have more winter weather yet. Every day will bring us closer to spring. Sunday visitors were Tony Richards, Cody…
Church started Sunday morning with prayer by James Moore. We sang. Bro. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Sunday school lesson was titled Power of Death, John 11:14-15 and 20-27, 40-44 taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson we sang several songs. Specials were performed by Lena…
During Sunday morning services we had 16 people attend. We started out the morning by taking our prayer reqests to the Lord and then we dismissed to our Sunday school classes. After Sunday school the kids sang and took up the penny march. After the penny march Sis. Danita did…
Well, I stepped my foot outside the door today and, sure enough, I caught it. Yes, I think I have a bad case of Spring Fever. I found myself looking longingly at my garden spot and was having definite thoughts of where I could plant some spring flowers. I even…
After missing a Sunday for bad weather, folks were glad to be back in service this morning. Most of our regulars were back, with the exception of one or two, hope everyone is back soon, we miss them. We have so many on our prayer list, continue to pray for…
Bonnie Phipps said she didn’t go to church Sunday because of the ice in her driveway. Her driveway is on the north side of her house so this warm weather will get rid of that. Mark came and brought me some more eggs last Monday and George and Violet Blakey…
Those beautiful warm days with no snow are very much appreciated. Today is Valentine’s Day and so I am planting seed in my tubs for some lettuce. This is when you are supposed to sow lettuce seed and I remember my Uncle Orville never let anything deter him. In fact…
A sure sign that spring is on its way is that robins are here and very busy in my yard and garden after, the grub worms. The ground hasn’t stayed frozen for long. Also the sun is rising to the north in the Eastern sky each morning instead of so…
Champions felt a great deal warmer at ten below when they heard that Louise’s brother up in Davenport, IA, had eighteen degrees below zero. Kurt over at the post office, said he didn’t know if he would be able to tell the difference between ten below and eighteen below if…
Peter was to become the leader of the first century Christian church. At the beginning, though, he started life as a fisherman. When Jesus met him, he changed his name to Cephas (John 1:42), which means ‘rock’. Cephas is Aramaic. The Greek word for rock is Peter, hence the name…
Has everyone got their bluebird houses cleaned out and ready for occupants? I read the other day that the bluebirds would start checking out housing in late February or early March, and start nesting in March. I love bluebirds and need to get busy and make a few more houses.…
There was a good number of people out for the pizza and movie night. Some of them were just glad to be out of the house, period. Some of the driveways had not been clear for two weeks. All some people had been able to do was carry in wood,…
Odie Kresse visited with Tom and Jewell Johnson last week. Norma Stillings went to Rocky Ridge in Mansfield and Heart of the Ozarks Healthcare Center last week to play the piano and visit with residents. Most residents prefer the old hymn and gospel songs that they heard when they were…
Sunday morning service was opened with the little ones singing and praising God. Such a blessing, they are, letting us know how we should be excited in serving and praising God. We then had welcoming and praise which was led by Bill and DeDe Arrington. Several were mentioned for having…
Sunday, February 13 was the sixth Sunday after epiphany and marks the end of the epiphany season with its theme of the showing forth or manifestation of Jesus to the world. Fr. Glen based his sermon on the epistle for the day, I John 3:1, and the gospel for the…
Well, I’m sure everyone is glad to see the snow melt. It’s good to be able to get out and about. I went to church with Bob and Linda on Sunday. My visitors this past week were Barb, Jack and Miracle. Bob came over from Mtn. Grove and surprised me…
If you didn’t enjoy a beautiful Lord’s Day this last Sunday, you certainly missed an enormous opportunity, it was the next best thingsto spring. Our morning message was “Signs of Idolatry” from the text of II Kings 17:33. We explored several ways our modern society “worships” things, other than the…
Lee Hampton opened Sunday school and taught from the 9th chapter of Mark. We always have a good discussion and questions on the lesson. Jessie Lafferty asked the blessing on the offering. Ronnie and Sue Thomas were present. Someone stayed with Rhoda. She stays about the same. We sure miss…
A good Tuesday morning to all our readers. How about the weather yesterday? What a beautiful day in the Ozarks. It kind of gave me garden fever, not really just dreaming, but it would be nice to be able to do that again. No news last week as your reporter…
I talked with Bonnie Phipps Sunday and she said last Monday that she went out and got her mail and after that she hasn’t been out of the house because of the sleet and snow. Roy and Linda have been by and bring her mail in for her. I told…
God is love. It says so in I John 4:8. It doesn’t say ‘God loves’ as though it was a potion that He handed out. It’s a much stronger statement than that. It says God IS love. Is is an interesting word. Only two letters but it implies all kinds…
Last weeks news – There was a couple of good ballgames last week. One against Ava Victory Academy on Tuesday night and with Mark Twain Thursday night. We went to town Tuesday for lunch and did some shopping then stopped by the nursing home to visit with Peggy Jenkins and…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Prayer was given by Bro. James Moore. Sunday School lesson was “A Man Is Healed” taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday School lesson we sand several songs. Special music was given by Diane Strunks and Woodrow…
We know that the weather hasn’t been very permitting for travel but we are thankful for the ones who were able to be at services on Wednesday and Sunday, and we are thankful to those who were there with us in spirit unable to travel on the treacherous roads. Wednesday…
We read our devotional from Luke 3 followed by singing led by Stan Humbyrd with LeaAnn Crum at the piano. Doyle Humbyrd gave a tribute to Eddie Turner, whose funeral was on Saturday at Clinkingbeard’s chapel with Pastor Neal, Randy Dalton and Frances Humbyrd doing the service. He was buried…
We seem to be in a pattern of icy and snow covered drives so there was no church at Mt. Tabor this week. Hopefully we will be back for this next service. Continue to pray for all those who are bereaved, sick, in need and especially the unsaved, God cares for…
The weather forecasters say we have another snow storm headed our way today. It’s coming to us via Arkansas so this area may receive about three or four inches of what they describe as a white fluffy, dry snow. Well, at least it will be great for some more snow…
This Monday morning is cold and cloudy with a somewhat bad forecast, but we must be thankful for everyday the Lord gives us and strive to find all the good in each day. My son, Kent, is here with bluegrass music (gospel) on the internet. Vonda is doing my housework,…
The family of Earl Fleetwood have my sympathy. I had a phone call from Debra Reed in Simpson, Kansas. She is doing better. Brittany Torres had been over and stayed all night with her. Her husband is at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Diana Davis and Melanie Breeding were here Thursday.…
A small but determined group of worshippers gathered at St. Francis on Sunday, Feb. 5 in spite of the snow and ice. I appreciate the Connell family for giving me a ride in their four-wheel drive since I would not have been able to go otherwise. Feb. 5 was the…
We still have a seat for you if you don’t have a church home and if you will come and be our guest we will try our best to make you feel at home. This last Lord’s Day our morning message was, “ A Fixed Heart,” from our text in…
Well, here we are again. We still have snow and slick roads. We didn’t have many out to Sunday school but we had 16 that made it. We had a good fellowship. It’s always good to be in the house of the Lord. Joe Lafferty opened Sunday school reading the…
I still haven’t made any snow ice cream and since I’m not a big fan of ice cream, snow or otherwise, I haven’t missed it. We do have plenty of snow left if the grandkids decide they want some so everything is good. After church Sunday we joined our daughter,…
When the ice, sleet, and snow fell a week ago, Norma Stillings was happy to be safe inside, and stayed there until Friday. She is fortunate to have a son, Dan, and grandson, Alan, who are not afraid to go out on the ice. They were able to clear part…
The Wednesday evening service at Bethany Baptist Church was cancelled because the parking lot was ice covered. Several other events were postponed, but Sunday morning there was a good turn out for church. Norma Stillings sang a special song. Pastor Bob Sorensen brought a message from 2 Timothy 2:24-26, “Has…
Sunday morning services were changed due to the weather and only the second service was held. A few brave people ventured out to attend. Sunday evening was food, games and of course the Super Bowl Bash. We are sorry to hear of so many who are sick in our community…
The tranquility of Champion sits unperturbed under another coat of snow. This one was substantial, beautiful and quickly melted. The next one will be what it will be and forward-looking Champions will make the most of it. Cabin Fever has claimed few victims this season and the slowness of pace…
I do wish we would get better weather soon. Here on McCann Ave. the snow is piled high from cleaning driveways. We have had eight inches or more. Marise and I missed our mid week Auxiliary day. I did get to church Sunday morning and from there I went on…
There is a good supply of moisture now with snow and more snow! Nature’s prediction with “kernels the shape of spoons in last falls’ persimmon seeds” is being fulfilled whether it is fact or fiction! The snow covered trees are beautiful. What a fluffy snow! Snow ice cream isn’t near…
Last weeks news – On Friday I went on the Oats bus to Ava and did some shopping then I met Tracy, Hannah and Devin and went home and spent the night with them. On Saturday I watched them play basketball then Tracy brought me home Saturday evening. Dwayne Sparks…
Opening prayer for the starting of the morning service was by Joie Welker. The dismissal to Sunday school classes was by Narvil Tetrick. Our lesson was “Healed By His Bruises.” We were very humbled by this lesson as we studied the suffering of Jesus. Because of His wounds and death…
On the eve of potentially bad weather, Champions are cool. Adequate preparation and youthful optimism make the whole prospect of exciting weather…well, exciting! Of course it is not easy for everyone and so intrepid Champion adventurers will be out helping where help is needed. It is Champion. The big, big,…
I hope all the forecasts were wrong and there is not a foot of snow on the ground, but if there is, I’m sure the kids are having a great time being out of school. And I am going to be sure to make some snow ice cream this time!…
I will be glad when it gets pretty out and everyone gets well and can get out and make it to church on Sunday. Pat Miller, Marie Dickey and Carol Moore all went last Monday to Gainesville to their O.E.S. School of Instruction. Pat belongs to that chapter. I went…
During Wednesday night Bible study we had eight attend services. We have been learning about ways to conduct ourselves in every day life in order to be more pleasing to God, in ways civilly, business, personal relationships, socially and with family. We had a good discussion. During Sunday morning services…
Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem. Fate awaited Him there and He knew what He was going to. Yet, on his way there between Samaria and Galilee he stopped off long enough to heal ten lepers. The story is in Luke 17:11-19. Leprosy, which is called Hansen’s disease today,…
Toni VanDyne visited with Tom and Jewell Johnson last week. They have received lots of phone calls, visits, and help from friends and family members lately. Tom preached Sunday morning. Norma Stillings attended a meeting of CHART, last Thursday at the conference room at MOCH Clinic. Friday, she drove to…
Dan Stillings sang a special song Sunday morning and accompanied himself on the guitar. There were special songs Sunday evening by the Jubilee Singers, Stillings Family Trio and the Youth group with Norma Stillings at the piano. Darlene and Sally Sorensen sang a duet with Sally at the piano, vocal…
Sunday morning message was brought from Proverbs 3:1-10, “Stewardship Is Lordship.” Sunday evening message was from Revelations 21:1-4, “Heaven, Land Of No Tears.” Tillie Fowler sang a beautiful special. There were several out with sickness this week. We pray for their quick and complete recovery. On Wednesday evening, the youth…
Every time I write, the weather changes. This time it will be a bad storm that we have not seen for a few years. People will get out and drive anyway. I hope they will stay home. All was well on Sunday at Seminole. Everyone came for the two services…
Last weeks news –Lyn Halcomb celebrated her birthday with 24 family members. They ate at Lyn’s favorite, Red Lobster and came back to her daughter’s, Shelly Parham’s for cake and ice cream. Saturday evening Connie and John Siler hosted a birthday supper for her brother, David. John got to try…
“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed, “ Isaiah 53:5. This was our key verse this week. Brother Roy Frye read II Corinthians 5:16-21 for the devotion after congregational…
My sympathy to the Alberta Myers family. Donna Dodson and Macee Breeding were here on Monday and Tuesday. Reece Goforth, Quin Breeding and Donna came by on Friday. Donna, Quin and I went to town. Keith and Melanie Breeding and Megan took Macee to the doctor Saturday. She had broke…
January 27 – Caney came together Wednesday evening to study the word. We began with singing. Bro. Hi Lambeth was our leader this week. Prayer requests were taken. Bro. Jeff Shipley led us in prayer. Hi read II Timothy 2 – study the word, do not distort the word to…
Psalm 8:3-4 “When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; what is man that thou art mindful of him?” Aren’t we glad that God is mindful of His children on a day like this Tuesday. We were given plenty…
Our prayer chain went around on Friday for Lisa Mitchell. We are praying for Lisa and her family. Other prayer requests were for Brandon Murriel, Jeff Dalton, Joe Mason, Faye Humbyrd, Mary Lou Hodges, Larry Hampton, Carol Gott and Rick Crum’s brothers, Roger and Keith. Kevin Hodges prayed this prayer. …
It was a gloomy day on the outside, however, our congregation was glad to be in God’s house, ahead of the impending storm. Our prayer list continues to grow by leaps and bounds, some have been there for quite some time, new ones and so many bereaved families. Pray for…
January goes out this Monday and February is again bringing us unpleasant weather! On Wednesday Mr. Groundhog “may” come out of his hole in the ground and see his shadow, depending on what part of the country he is in, and in Pennsylvania “this” is a weather prediction. Kathy (Cowart)…
Our congregation was missing a very important member this past Lord’s Day, our Sunday school superintendent, Tom Bentley, went through a heart attack and is now recovering and getting his strength back. He seems to be doing very well. Please join us in thanking the Lord for his swift and…
Joe Lafferty opened Sunday school by reading the 67th Psalm. Wilma Hampton led the opening prayer. Lee Hampton taught our lesson in the 7th chapter of Mark. We sang Happy Birthday to Braeden Lafferty. Clara Lafferty led the offering prayer. We had questions and answers. We had congregational singing. Sue…
Sunday school opened with prayer. We had congregational singing. The little ones took up the penny march. Bro. Darrell taught Bible class. We enjoy his teachings. It’s a blessing. Esther Hankins taught the little ones. She does a great job. She sang some songs with Rachel and Rayonna. Special songs…
Bob came from Mountain Grove and got wood in for me. We’re getting ready for the snow that’s been forecasted. Bob, Linda and Christina went to church on Sunday morning. Linda visited with granddaughters of Oklahoma on Saturday and Sunday by phone. I visited with friends and family by phone…
“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God that He may exalt you in due time,” I Peter 5:6. My sympathy to the Loraine Bradshaw family. Wednesday evening Tom Bentley had a heart attack. Phyllis and Travis got him in the car and drove to Ava St. John’s Clinic…
God gave us sunshine this morning. We thank Him so much. Sunday school began with a great good morning to all from Bro. Paul, as he was filling in for Bro. Marshall. We sang a good hymn. We had many prayer requests, so many health problems, our lost loved ones,…
Sunday, January 30 was the fourth Sunday after epiphany. Fr. Glen based his sermon on the gospel for the day, St. Matthew 8:1 in which Jesus heals the servant of a Roman soldier, a centurion who has come to Jesus for help. This passage continues the theme of the epiphany…
1-18-11. I guess I’ve worn out the words I just can’t keep up with the time. It just rolls along so fast. It makes me feel like the horse who says I’ve fallen and can’t get up. Well, the temperature got up in the thirties and we got snow and…
Bro. Oren has been talking about the power of prayer this month. Prayer is so essential to Christians, not only because it’s a way to communicate with God, but because it is so powerful and helpful in our walk with Christ. Life is full of difficulties and roadblocks but through…
Hope everyone enjoyed the snow and got to eat some snow ice cream. My grandkids joined hundreds of other kids and enjoyed the snow by staying home from school for a couple of days. They finally got enough snow to go sledding a little while. We didn’t have any snow…
For over four thousand years, Jewish and then Christian scribes have gone to great lengths to accurately copy the manuscripts that have become the Scriptures contained in the Bible. They have been so precise that when the Jews were separated and spread throughout the Middle East and Europe over a…
We have just started planning to have a friend day, on the thirteenth of February and we really would like for you to come and bring a friend. I will try to give you more details in next weeks “Church News.” Our morning message, was taken from Galatians 5:16, the…
Sunday, January 23 was the third Sunday after epiphany; altar and vestment colors continue to be green and our hymns are the beautiful epiphany hymns, which are always sung during this season. In the Anglican tradition all elements of the service – music, vestments, scripture readings – are integrated and…
Champions are comfortable in their pastoral environs—the pleasant rural life—peaceful, simple and natural. The luxury of quiet winter days is spent viewing the glorious ‘ordinary’ of Champion in wind blown puffs of snow bursting in disintegrating monochromatic explosions—sunlit fireworks–white on white, or in the sudden revelation when familiar topography, newly…
Sunday morning service began with some instrumental music. We had prayer requests and prayer then welcoming and greeting everyone. Brother Cody Prock read a scripture then Brother Roberts brought the message from Matthew 9:27-30, “Expecting the Best In Life.” Sunday evening service was our monthly singing and we enjoyed several…
I talked with Bonnie Phipps and she said she didn’t make it to church this Sunday, but she did last Sunday. Carol Moore came by last Monday and picked me up and then we went on over to Marie Dickey’s and we went over to the lodge hall where we…
Opening prayer for the starting of our Sunday morning service was by Doug Miller. After congregational singing we were dismissed to our Sunday school classes. Our lesson was The Servants Mission To The World.” Our mission is to bring the light of Salvation to a Spirituality dark and lost world.…
A good frosty Tuesday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a safe and happy weekend. The weather was some what better then early in the week. The snow is almost gone here at this time. Jerry and his helpers did a great job clearing the sidewalks on…
Darlene and Sally Sorensen sang a special song Sunday morning before Pastor Bob Sorensen brought a message on the rapture he called, “Are You Ready For The Take-Off?” At any moment the call could come, the Lord Jesus will descend from heaven with a shout, those who sleep in Jesus…
Claude Robertson visited with Tom and Jewell Johnson last week. Tom and Jewell have family members coming in giving them all kinds of help. Norma Stillings had a colonoscopy in Springfield last Wednesday. That meant that all day Tuesday was spent getting ready for the procedure and all day Thursday…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Prayer was given by Bro. James Moore. Sunday school lesson was, Jesus Is The Light, John 8:31-39, 42 and 47 taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson we sang several songs. Sister Diane Strunks said…
We don’t have very much news this week. Barb, Jack and Miracle went to the home of Terry and Delayna Dry on Sunday. The boys helped cook Delayna’s birthday dinner. All their family enjoyed being together. Sam visited me one day and was going to get me in some wood,…
Well here we are again with a bit of news. Some of our people are still fighting colds. Maybe when spring comes it will go away. Joe Lafferty opened Sunday school by the reading the 53rd Psalms and led in prayer. Lee Hampton taught our lesson in the 6th chapter…
Plainview School got in one evening of basketball games this week on Tuesday night. They will be making up the Thursday evening games later. They won all their games. The snow came in Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. Dick got ready to take DeAnn Thompson in to work Thursday morning,…
January 19 – We came together Wednesday night at Caney Church by singing. Bro. Bill Austin began service by taking prayer requests. Bro. Jeff Shipley led in prayer. Bro. Bill read James 2:14-18, 4:1-3, 15-17 and 13-16. Faith is essential, but we need to work for the Lord, show your…
Donna Dodson and Macee Breeding were here Monday morning for breakfast. Jo Stephens visited me on Wednesday. Macee was also here while Donna went to her meeting at work. Melanie Breeding came by on Thursday and Friday to bring me my mail. Donna took me to the doctor on Friday…
Last fall when cutting open some persimmon seed, and finding kernels in the shape of a spoon, we were thinking of the prediction (or myth), that we would have a lot of snow this winter. The melting snow will provide moisture, which is needed, as there hasn’t been enough rain…
It is good to see no snow out there this Monday morning. The weatherman tells us we need the moisture and I say, we need the sunshine and to get rid of this cool weather. It did get cold and streets weren’t safe for driving, but Marise got up early…
During Sunday morning services we had a pretty great turn out. We had 16 in attend morning services. We had some new visitors and want to welcome them back anytime. We started off our morning service with prayer and requests and then dismissed to our Sunday school classes. After Sunday…
Several from church attended the funeral of Sister Marie Long on Wednesday at Clinkingbeard’s Funeral Home. Our prayers are with George, Pat and Keith. We know what a vacancy is there when we lose our Mothers even when we know she is with Jesus. Our devotional reading was from Hebrews…
It was a much nicer day for church on Sunday, though some of our congregation still suffer from the “bug”. Many in the community complain of it “hanging on”. Hopefully, everyone will recover shortly and be back in church, we miss each one. Sympathy to Lloyd Shumate in the loss…
Greetings to everyone. It’s a little chilly outside today, but the weatherman says a warm up is on its way soon. We hope for the warmer days. Hope is what keeps one going and striving for better days ahead. God gave hope of better days to come to those who…
I awakened this Monday morning with more energy than I had for a while. This is a beautiful day the Lord has given us and we will enjoy it to the fullest. The Lord’s Day was a day of smiles and blessings. Everyone was back in church, about 40 strong…
This has been a emotional week for Webster County as we have all mourned the loss of Sgt. 1st Class Robert Wayne Pharris. Sgt. Pharris is the first Webster County casualty of this war that I am aware of and he was a resident of the south side of this…
We’ve had a very cold week but we’re fortunate to have bright sunshine a lot. Those dark days don’t contribute to my poor vision. I received a real good magnifying glass from a lady Brenda, who works for the Blind of Missouri. She has severe vision problems, also. We are…
Sorry I didn’t get any news in the paper last week. I usually write it late Sunday night and e-mail it in, and there just wasn’t much besides the birthdays and anniversaries to put in. I decided to wait until the next day and try to get it in before…
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks will conduct a blood drive in Ava on Tuesday, Jan. 25, at Heart of the Ozarks Healthcare Center. The blood drive will be conducted from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Heart of the Ozarks is located at 2004 Crestview Street in south Ava. CBCO…
2011 is not just another year for the Ava Lions Club. It is a year that will be filled with many challenges and opportunities to serve Ava and Douglas County. Although it is nearly impossible to name or list everything that was accomplished in 2010, we would like to review…
Lion Richard Sturgeon attended Hobo Days last Saturday and told the Lions, at Monday evening’s meeting, what a good time he had. Hobo Days was held in Hollister. Richard traveled with Mtn. Grove Lion President Ken Lewis and his wife, Alice, to Hollister, where they spent most of the day.…
Kiwanis Club of Ava met last Thursday at noon at the Highway House Cafe for our regular weekly meeting. Although some of our regulars were out, we had a short business meeting then got in some visiting time before everyone had to go. Please Note! Due to other obligations, the…
Evelyn Evans is our community reporter for an area south of Ava called Frye – Foil. This neighborhood is just south of Squires on JJ Highway. Evelyn and husband Carl settled in Douglas County over 35 years ago. As a couple, retiring after 20 years of service in the Navy,…
1-10-11. We are into 2011. It’s already going fast. I appreciate the Douglas County Herald for the nice article they put in there for me being the correspondent of the week. It made me feel good. I graduated from Ava High School and still think of Ava as being my…
“For if a man think himself to be something when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself,” Galatians 6:3. I got my last Christmas card Monday the 3rd. The card was mailed December 21st from Summit, Mississippi. I guess it takes longer for mail to get from Mississippi. Friday afternoon the…
Sunday school opened with a good morning from Bro. Paul who was filling in for Bro. Marshall. We had many prayer requests for the sick, the lost, our brothers and sisters in Christ, our church and each other. Sister Ulla led in prayer. We sang a good hymn for Jesus.…
Opening prayer for the start of our Sunday morning service was led by Joey Welker. Our Sunday school lesson was on “Reassurance For God’s People” for Christians to keep moving on our journey that is set by our God. We need constant assurance that He is walking beside us and…
Why do bad things happen to good people? A question many have tried to answer. In fact, a book was published with that title some years back. ‘Why?’ ‘Why me?’, ‘How could this happen?’; searching for answers to life’s difficulties usually begins with a why or a how. The end…
Champions are pretty sure that winter is not quite over and some are hoping for some rain and snow. The ground needs it and it is well known that Champions, for the most part, love the weather no matter what it is, most of the time. Champions sympathize with other…
Debbie Cederlind came down Friday evening to her mother’s, Bonnie Phipps and stayed all night and went back home on Saturday. Last Monday we had some snow before we got up, but most of it blew away. Kendra came by in the afternoon and picked up her carrot cake and…
Joe Lafferty opened Sunday school with the reading of the 75th Psalm. Bro. Lee Hampton led the opening prayer. Bro. Lee Hampton also taught our adult class lesson in the 5th chapter of Mark. Wilma Hampton had questions and answers. She had had that sinus and cold virus. We also…
We have a small Women’s Prayer Group, which meets each Sunday evening at 6:30 p.m. and we would be pleased as punch if more ladies would come and turn it into a Large Women’s Prayer Group, all are welcome. This Lord’s Day we took our text and our message from…
Sunday, January 16 was the second Sunday after epiphany. Fr. Glen based his sermon on the gospel reading for the day, the first chapter of St. Mark, which relates the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. Fr. Glen explained that the gospel readings for epiphany concentrates on the theme…
Sunday Morning service was opened with prayer requests followed by prayer then songs of praise and welcoming everyone. Brother Cody Prock read a scripture from Psalm 65:9-11. Brother Roberts brought the morning message from I Samuel 17:3-11, “Facing Your Giants.” Brother Cody brought the evening message from Acts 17:1-7, “May…
Several prayer requests were given for sick. Among those were Marie Long, Zella Menzies, Joe Mason, Lonnie Combs, Weldon Sanders, lost people, hurting people, our nation, leaders and military. Danny Johnson prayed this prayer. Happy birthday was sung to Jerry Pitts. We are glad to have Jerry and Debbie with…
Albert and Doris Elliot and Freeda Holt visited with Tom and Jewell Johnson last week. Jewell said that the “kids” are always coming in. Tom attended church with them, Sunday. Sam said that he did not have any news to report. He has been eating at the Senior Citizens now…
Bethany Baptist Church held its January semi-annual business meeting, Wednesday evening. Dan Stillings gave the 2010 financial report and presented the proposed budget for 2011. The congregation approved both the financial report and the proposed budget. The congregation agreed to contribute to the support of the Lighthouse Baptist Ministries of…
A good Tuesday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a great weekend. The sun is slow on coming up this morning and it looks kind of dreary here to say the least. It looks like good weather for ducks. We want to send get-well wishes to all…
Last weeks news – While Dick and I were in town last week, we rain into Randy Jenkins and Susan. We visited with them while having lunch. They had returned from Nebraska Sunday evening. Susan has folks out there. After that we all visited with Peggy in the nursing home.…
We had good services. Bro. Dan opened up in prayer and then led in some congregational songs. The children took up the penny march. Bro. Darrel taught the Sunday school lesson from Luke, chapter 3. We missed Esther at church and so did the girls. Bro. Garry preached Sunday morning…
We had several visitors this past week. Bob came from Mtn. Grove with a friend and worked on a drain that was frozen. Another day, Bob and Susie came and filled my porch with wood. We visited with Barb, Jack and Miracle one evening and had supper with them. Friends…
A very damp, chilly day here in Ava today as we are quilting here at church today. We just got back from eating out for our lunch. There is seven of us here today working. We’ve had several things we came together and prayed about. We have a beautiful quilt…
During Wednesday evening Bible study we had a good discussion. We went over rules for a happier marriage, outlined by the Bible. We had 11 attend Bible study. During Sunday morning services we had 13 attend. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Clark family in their times of loss.…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Prayer was given by Bro. James Moore. Sunday school lesson was, Who Is Jesus, John 7:14-18, 37-39 and 50-52 taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson we sang several songs. Bro. Raymond Haden brought the…
Last weeks news –I read Ruby Satterfield’s column, Little Creek. It is always a joy. She wrote of the death of Rev. Mark Degase and that was so sad. Her writings sure warm your heart. I have never met her, but I know I would really enjoy visiting with her.…
I will try and jot a bit of news this Monday morning. Last week was such a cold week and not much going on. Chris Hartzell had dinner and visited last Saturday with her grandma, Ann Collins. Janet and Katlyn Smith visited after school Monday evening with Agnes Williams. Trish…
This Monday at 2 p.m. I was hopeful the sun would break through and it still could from the way it is looking. I love the sunshine. I lived in Oregon for fifty years where the sun seldom shined. I am thankful for our little snow last week and not…
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me, “ Psalm 51:10. Brother Roy read I Kings 8:33-40 for the devotion after congregational singing. We had testimonies and Pastor David sang for the special. We missed several who were out. Pastor David preached from…
Donna Dodson, Melanie and Macee Breeding were here for lunch on Monday. Rheba Pool and Freckles came by and gave me a cookbook for my birthday. Debra Reed of Kansas called this week. Michael Dodson, Donna Dodson and Macee Breeding went to Nixa on Friday morning. Mrs. Karen Etheridge, Donna…
This January weather is no respecter of persons. It has been a rude awakening for anyone who wasn’t prepared for the cold blast! Wednesday night service was called off at Lilly Ridge Church because of the cold temperatures. Anna Larson enjoyed a weeks visit from her daughter, Diana Woodward, of…
I will try to write what I know of the news from our community. Almost all were out to church Sunday and we were thankful and blessed by being together in worship of our Savior, Jesus Christ and to study the scriptures. Danny did a good job of instruction and…
January 16 – Sunday school at Caney began with singing. Bro. Jack Essary welcomed everyone. Prayer requests were taken. Bro. Bill Shipley led our hearts in prayer. Jack read I Kings 8:33-40 for our devotional. After Sunday school, happy birthday was sung to Vanessa Mills. God bless her. She is…
It looks like Old Man Winter is about to take center stage again. Everyone around here is getting more firewood ready for another round of cold weather. Four or five degrees above zero are not exactly the heat wave temperatures that we’ve been dreaming of lately. Well, like I told…
The Lions did not meet the weeks of Christmas and New Years, but met for their first regular meeting of the new year this past Monday evening. Several items were discussed, such as the plans for their walk/run. The walk/run will be held on the second Saturday of May, as…
There were several people out for last week’s meeting, but we did meet as scheduled for our first meeting of the new year. We discussed fundraising ideas as well as several upcoming events that are on our calendar. There were two Terrific Kids presentations scheduled for Monday Jan. 10 which…
It’s a beautiful, sunny, white day today as I write this. Most schools were closed because of this snow today and we didn’t quilt today, just a little too cold we thought. I guess the flu is going around, both my granddaughters were sick Sunday and Monday. I haven’t called…
During Wednesday evening Bible study we have been discussing the foundation of the family being built on Christ. This week we have been going through the duties of the husband to the wife and vice versa. We had 16 in attendance during Sunday morning services. We had prayer requests and…
Our prayer chain was called this week for Veronica and Miracle. As we came together on our Lord’s Day, we read our devotional from Exodus 15. Many prayer requests were shared for sick and hurting people, lost loved ones, our nation, troops and leaders. LeaAnn Crum prayed this prayer. Happy…
We had a cold and windy day Sunday, people still out with the bug, but we continue to carry on. We appreciate the faithful ones that are always there. There are so many on our prayer list, friends, family, church families, especially the lost. Brother Dennis read from Ephesians and…
This Monday afternoon the snow is slowly falling. We can get from one to three inches by morning and colder the next few days. It could be a lot worse. It was cold when going to church Sunday, but all was there for Pastor Don’s sermon on Fit For Life.…
Donna Dodson came by on Monday and she and Macee were here on Tuesday. Wednesday was my birthday. Donna and Macee brought me breakfast. Gene and Rheba Pool and Jo came in the afternoon. Jo brought a cake. I received phone calls from my sister Juanita of Illinois and my…
“Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else,” Isaiah 45:2. Brother Roy read Exodus 15:11-18 for the devotion after the singing by the congregation. Please pray for Weldon Sanders, Mike Jones, Jacki Lafferty, Rick Bailey, Gene…
Is it possible that the first half of January is almost past? It seems as if the holidays were just yesterday. Yes, time passes fast and we should make everyday count by serving the one that gives us each and every day. The Lord our God has given us life,…
Our attendance was better today. We still have some out sick. The virus seems to go from one to the other. Our visitors were Ellis and Roseann Carpenter. Ellis led in prayer before the lesson. Lee Hampton taught our lesson in Mark, the fourth chapter. Parable of the mustard seed,…
Sunday school opened with a good morning from Bro. Marshall. We sang a song for Jesus. Bro. Marshall asked for prayer requests. We had many for the lost, the sick, our families, our friends, our church and each other. Sister Mary led in prayer. Bro. Marshall read scripture from II…
Sunday was a beautiful Lord’s Day at Oak Grove. Our morning message was “The Providence of God” taken from the book of Esther for our text. Our evening message was from Luke 5:26 in regard to the many, “Strange Things” spoken of in the Bible, how we are to understand…
Well, I guess we’re all wondering how much snow we’ll get this week and in the next few days. I’ve been staying at home the past few days. James spent one afternoon with me. Carol, Robert and Chris Johnson visited Linda and Bob on Saturday evening. Bob and Linda visited…
Sunday, January 9 was the first Sunday after epiphany; altar and vestment colors are green, the color of growth and new life. The word epiphany is from the Greeks for manifestation and commemorates the manifestation or showing forth of the Christ child to the world as represented by the Magi,…
Carol Moore came and picked me and Marie Dickey up last Monday and we went to our O.E.S. meeting where we had our D.D.G.M. visiting that night. I got a different C-PAP machine last Tuesday and it seems to be doing better than the one I had. Marsha came by…
Morning service was opened with the little ones doing a praise song for the congregation. They did an awesome job, thanks to their leaders. We had a beautiful special about all of the wagon tracks being gone from around the church. Brother Roberts brought the morning message from Matthew 26:…
It’s important to make a living. Anyone trying to carve a place first concentrates on food and clothing. The challenge to have both is attacked with sincerity. But, it says in Matthew 6:25-32 not to worry about food or clothing. God takes care of those things. After all, isn’t He…
In Champion in January of 2011, numerologists are having a field day—01-02-2011—come on. Then there was 01-10-2011, and of course 01-11-11 and soon 01-20-2011—all very interesting stuff and frequently adding up to 3, 5, or 7. Numerology notwithstanding, in Champion the high level of civility manifescent in the populace is…
A good snow and cold Tuesday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a safe and good weekend. We send get-well wishes to all the sick, the ones in the hospitals and the nursing homes. Our sympathy to all who have lost loved ones. May God bless you…
January 2 – The first service of 2011 at Caney began with singing. Bro. Jack Essary welcomed everyone. Prayer requests were taken. Bro. Jeff Shipley led our hearts in prayer. Jack read Psalms 106:40-48 for our devotion. After Sunday school happy birthday was sung to Melba Austin, Tracy Shipley and…
Kent and Lindsey McBay were guests at Bethany Baptist Church, Sunday. Kent and Lindsey are planning to start a church in Mesa, Arizona just outside Phoenix. Kent and Lindsey grew up in Tanner, Alabama where they both attended the First Baptist Church. They had been active in church activities and…
R.E. Helsley of Mansfield and Gary Emrick of Ava visited with Tom and Jewell Johnson last week. The family comes in all the time and are very good to help Tom and Jewell with everything from providing good food to taking them to doctor visits. Their son, Lowell Johnson, is…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Prayer was given by Bro. James Moore. Sunday school lesson was, Jesus The Bread of Life, John 6:32-34 and 41-44 and 66-69. After a good Sunday school lesson we sang several songs. Prayer was given by Bro. Woodrow…
During Wednesday evening services we had 14 in attendance, which is a larger group than what we are used to. We had a good discussion on the involvement of the word being the foundation for the family. Sunday morning services we had 14 in attendance. We started out with prayer…
Friday, on New Year’s Eve morning, we were still in bed when our neighbor called to make sure that we were aware of the tornado warning that was for our immediate area. Of course, we knew nothing of what was going on. That was one rude awakening that was most…
Several prayer concerns were shared. Among those were Weldon, Joe, Veronica, Lonnie, Carol, Bonita tornado victims, Eddie, Melissa’s grandpa, Marie Long and the names in our book on the altar. Doyle Humbyrd prayed this prayer. We sang happy birthday to Melissa Dalton. Brad Siler and Aaron Dalton received our Lord’s…
As this new year begins, Mt. Tabor Church would like to send our wishes for a peaceful, healthy, year for you and your loved ones. We hope to be able to make a difference in the lives of those around us and to encourage and support those in need, please…
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things become new,” II Corinthians 5:17. Brother Roy read Psalm 106:40-48 for the devotion after Sister Shirley led the singing. Pastor David prayed then we went to our classes. Pastor David…
The family of Jess (Driskell) Tetrick of West Plains have my sympathy. John and Jo visited Gene and Rheba Wednesday. Megan and Macee visited with the Koops Thursday. Donna and I went to Wal-Mart Friday. Those going to Hollister, Missouri Saturday to visit Danny Bushong and Onna Bushong were Donna…
Such sad news this New Year from Little Creek! I have always written the tribute as each of our loved ones have passed from us one by one. With Mark it is so hard to believe or understand and accept. We say he was too young and had so much…
This sunshine looks and feels good this Monday afternoon. It is shining in my south windows, but with a chill outside. Sunday morning at Seminole, we begin the New Year with the challenge of being “Fit For Life!” This series of messages will challenge us to examine our lives as…
1-3-11. Well, we’ll never see 2010 anymore, will we? I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas, a happy new year and a good 2011 all year long. My family did our Christmas early this year due to all their work schedules so that was good that we all got together…
Well another year has arrived and I hope it will be better for everyone than last year. Debbie Cederlind, Kaylynn Todd and Courtnie Vigesaa and Wylie came down Thursday to Bonnie Phipps and then Cecelia Edwards came over to visit with them while they were down. Bonnie said Chris, Courtnie…
Sunday school opened with a big hello from Bro. Paul who was filling in for Bro. Marshall. Prayer requests were given and there were many. Prayer was led by Sister Mary. We sang a song for Jesus. Our Sunday school leader for today was Sister Naomi. She used Acts 7:38-60…
We enjoyed a crisp, Lord’s Day at Oak Grove this 2nd day of the New Year. Our morning message was “Grass and Grain” from the parable in the 13th chapter of Matthew, about the “tares in the wheat.” The point being that we are not to engage in pulling tares,…
Sunday, January 2 was the second Sunday after Christmas Day. After a Sunday of red for St. Stephen’s Day, altar cloths and vestments are white for Christmas. Fr. Glen based his sermon on the reading for the epistle, Isaiah 61, in which the prophet tells the Hebrews that God has…
Sunday morning service was opened with prayer requests, prayer and welcoming while singing praise songs. Brother Roberts brought the morning message from Revelation 3:14-22, “Spiritual Reality Check.” Evening service was presented by Brother Roberts as a devotion of encouragement for living a better Christian life in 2011. Bob and Nora…
Some of the young folks at Bethany Baptist Church ate pizza and played games on New Year’s Eve. Sunday, January 9 Kent and Lindsey Mebay and their four children will be guests at Bethany Baptist Church. They are church planters to Phoenix, Arizona. There will be lunch in the fellowship…
Billy Fletcher went out to the home of Charlie Lindberg on New Year’s Day. Billy’s brother, Donald Fletcher, of Fair Grove visited with him, Monday. Tom Stillings and Joyce Greenwood of Ozark, Harlan and Cathy Lupton of Billings, Cliff and Debra Bohnstedt of Springfield and Stanley Stillings of Squires had…
Champions stand at the portal of their new year shoulder to shoulder with optimism, purpose, tolerance, curiosity, compassion, love and gratitude. Quite a snazzy bunch. It has been five years since the big ice storm that devastated Springfield and made news the world around. It seems that exciting things go…
It’s simple. Motivation is everything. It says in Luke 6:45 that a good man has a good heart and a bad (evil) man has a bad heart. Good people do good things and bad people do bad things. Let’s refine it a little more. In Colossians 3: 24-25 there will…
“But by the grace of God I am what I am and His grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain, but I laboured more abundantly than they all, yet not I but the grace of God which was with me, “ I Corinthians 15:10. Ted and Linda…
We’ve enjoyed a beautiful sunny Monday here and the weekend wasn’t bad either. Anyway, the days were sunny, not so cold. I was sorry about the tornado storms reported. The Ava area did okay, but several counties weren’t so lucky. Jerry and I went to Branson last Monday. Tuesday, I…
Well, happy new year to all my friends and neighbors! I’m not one to make a resolution, but I plan on trying to make some changes for the better. I went over and helped Beverly one day last week. We didn’t get much work done, but I enjoyed being over…
Strange weather conditions hit hard on New Year’s Eve day. Your heart goes out seeing all the loss of homes and etc. It was getting close around here. Rex and Shirley Halcomb visited us New Years Eve that evening and brought us an anniversary card and gift. We had a…
A good Tuesday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a great weekend. We send get-well wishes to all the sick, the ones in the hospitals and the nursing homes. Our sympathy to all who have lost a loved one. May God bless you in your time of…
We got some rain out of the two storms that come our way. We are so lucky not to get a tornado like some got. Some things cannot be replaced such as pictures and many keepsakes. Charlie Hampton and Tony Richards came by for a short visit Sunday. They went…
We have started a new year. Hope everyone has a good year. Bro. Dan opened up in prayer. Bro. Darrel taught a good lesson from Luke 3. Bro. Garry preached a good message from John 14, Strengthen Our Faith. He preached Sunday night from II Timothy3:6 and Revelations 3:10-22. We…
There was not many in attendance at Breedon. We have lots of people who are sick including this writer. A lot of viruses still affecting lots of people. Lee Hampton taught our lesson in the third chapter of St. Mark, where Jesus heals the withered hand. It sure is wonderful…
We had good services Sunday. Bro. Dan opened up in prayer then he led us in some songs. The children then took up the penny march. Bro. Darrel taught a good lesson from Luke. Bro. Garry brought a good message. Sunday night we had good service and God was there…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Prayer was given by Bro. Woodrow Coonce. Sunday school lesson was, The Necessary Birth, John 3:1-7 and 13-18 taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson we sang several songs. Prayer was given by Sister Naida…
Our church continues to have many folks suffering with the “bug”, as well as other ailments, please pray for each of these. We are glad to hear reports of those who are on the mend after serious health problems, thankful for each of these. Mae Cox had the misfortune of…
It is very good to see the sunshine again this Monday. Our Christmas weather has been dark and gloomy with snow on the rooftops for Christmas Day and cold. This weeks weathers report sounds good to me. At Seminole we had one service at 10:00 a.m. Sunday and Christmas Eve…
12-27-10 – Happy birthday to my daughter, Anita, today and many, many more to come. If she keeps on she going to catch up with me. The kids came out here on Saturday the 18th to have our family get together. It was so good to have them all here…
Thursday evening we enjoyed a good time of singing Christmas songs. We had about 27 people attend. Everyone got to leave with a goodie bag prepared by some of our members. During Sunday morning service we had 13 people attend services. We started out with prayer requests and dismissed to…
Last Weeks News – Another Christmas time has come and gone and wintertime weather has moved in. No falling weather hindered traffic here, though many states in the east were snow bound. The west has mudslides, which destroyed homes and roads. We were fortunate. As Paralee Rea had acquired a…
Last Weeks News – Greetings on this cold Monday morning. I am hoping all had a good Christmas. I appreciate the Herald staff for the Christmas gift. A nephew, Gary Leroy, of Chanute, Kansas came on Monday and visited until Wednesday with me, also, a step-son, Pat Daugherty and granddaughter,…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Prayer was given by Bro. James Moore. Sunday school lesson was, John 5:8-13 and 24-27 and 41-44 taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson we sang several songs. Special music was performed by Ivona Pierson,…
Happy New Year to everyone. Bob, Linda and I just had a quiet evening at home. On Sunday, I stayed in and Bob and Linda went on to church. Saturday evening, Bob and Linda visited with Barb, Jack and Miracle. Last Tuesday, Barb Williams went with Bob and Linda to…
Doug Miller opened our Sunday morning service with prayer. After congregational singing, our Sunday school lesson was “I Am Your Redeemer.” Our Redeemer sets us free from our sins, He created us and when we sin, God does not rest until He wins us back and fellowship is restored. Special…
Norma Stillings played Christmas songs at Kabul Nursing Home, Wednesday afternoon, Rocky Ridge in Mansfield, Friday afternoon, and the Heart of the Ozarks Healthcare Center, Christmas morning. She visited with a few residents at these facilities. Many nursing home residents have a hard time at Christmas if they do not…
Sunday morning service opened with welcoming a new addition to our church family, Little Mister Aaron Michael Hampton, He is such a beautiful (handsome) little fellow. Congratulations Mike and Regina. Prayer requests were given then prayer. Special song was wonderfully done by Sister Joyce Erickson. The morning message was brought…
Champion hearths and homes are full to the brim with holiday cheer and kinfolks. Champion refrigerators are full of leftovers and little dabs of all kinds of cranberry goop. It is a wonderful time of the year when the stresses are over and folks can just settle back to enjoy…
New Year’s Eve is this Friday. Consider this your invitation to join us for our New Year’s Watch, which starts at 10 p.m. Friday and will go until…until it’s over. Some of the ‘oldies but goodies’ don’t think they can stay awake that long. So, napping is okay. There are…
Happy New Year to all and happy birthday on December 24 to my aunt, Rhoda Thomas, who celebrated 95 years. Her son, Ronnie said the family was getting together Christmas Day if no ice. Christmas Day David Halcomb invited his parents, Junior and Betty Halcomb, his sister and husband, Connie…
Well, Christmas is over, which is kind of sad, all the hoop and holler and excitement is over for this year. We at Breedon had a wonderful Christmas. The economy affected us some, but the Lord always provides. Not many came out Sunday for church and Sunday school. Some of…
Opening prayer for Sunday morning service was given by Joie Welker. After congregational singing and dismissal to Sunday school, we had our lesson on “I Will Be With You”. We left our class with the assurance that no matter what happen to us, God is still with us and is…
Well, I suppose everyone has been busy with Christmas get-togethers the past few weeks. The twenty-first, Linda and Bob had twenty grandchildren and great grandchildren and family members for a dinner and gifts. The nineteenth was our church Christmas party. The twenty-fourth, Bob, Linda and I went to Mansfield for…
We trust that you had a blessed Lord’s Day. We certainly did, and just to bring you up to date, we also had a great midweek time in the Lord when we went Christmas caroling Wednesday afternoon and evening. The morning message this Sunday morning was taken from Judges 17,…
Sunday, December 26 was the first Sunday after Christmas and is also the feast of Saint Stephen. The church was ablaze with the color red with poinsettias around the altar and red vestments and altar linens in honor of the martyr Stephen; red is used on the feasts of martyrs.…
“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in day of Herod the king, behold there came wise men from the east of Jerusalem saying, where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the east and are come to worship…
A good Tuesday morning to all our readers. Another holiday has passed and the next one is to come then a new year will be here. We hope everyone had a safe and good weekend. The weather was somewhat warmer and the wind not so strong, but still cold. We…
If you were dreaming of a white Christmas, your dream came true; barely. It was a nice treat to look outside and see the white stuff, beautifully, coming down on Christmas morning. Our family had a wonderful Christmas Day together. How about you? There was no gift exchange, but we…
Gifts were exchanged, pictures were taken and a big dinner with all the trimmings were served at Bonnie Phipps’ house on Christmas. Bonnie said when they started taking pictures they put her in a chair and they all gathered around her then some would get out of the picture and…
December 22 – Caney Church came together Wednesday evening by singing. Bro. Hi Lambeth was our leader this week. He opened service by taking prayer requests. Bro. Jeff Shipley led in prayer. Bro. Hi read Jeremiah 36:1-10, 14-19 and 37:1-5. God’s word will not be destroyed. His words are true.…
Reece and Megan Goforth spent two days with Grandma Glenda and family. Joeand I visited Thursday night with Gene and Rheba Pool. David and Donna Dodson visited Friday with Mike and Corrina and Chase and Bryse. It was Mike’s birthday. They then visited Keith, Melanie and kids. Butch and Diana…
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23 was the scripture Pastor David used for God’s message Sunday morning. Have you accepted the gift God sent to us? If you have you are grateful this time…
Heart of the Ozarks Healthcare Center invited the families of all their residents to join their loved ones to have lunch last week. I sat with Peggy Jenkins, my sister-in-law, and two of her children and their spouses, Oliver Lee and Liz and Randy and Sue. The food was great…
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord,” Luke 2:11. Please don’t forget about Jesus this Christmas. He is the reason we celebrate. We give gifts to those we love just as God gave us His most precious gift,…
Donna and Macee were here Monday for breakfast. Debra Reed called Wednesday. She had been sick, but doing better. Butch and Diana were here Saturday. Diana and Jolisa and Willie and Ashlin were here Sunday evening. Donna and I went to Dollar General Sunday. Lisa and Seth visited Sunday with…
Mt. Tabor Church had a wonderful time in our service and Christmas program Sunday morning. It was originally to be held Friday night, however, due to families being out of town and illness, we changed our plans. We were blessed to have a great group with several visitors. We appreciate…
Last Weeks News – We stood to read our devotional from John 4 as we began our Sunday school. Prayer requests were given. Among those were Joe Mason, Donna Dale, Tammy Call, our soldiers away from home this Christmas and the names in our book on the altar. Peggy Miller…
Dan Stillings sang a special song Sunday morning and the Jubilee Singers sang one in the evening. Pastor Bob Sorensen brought a message from the book of Jeremiah 18:1-6, “Broken in the Potter’s Hands” Jeremiah lived in the days when Judah had become so caught up in idolatry, corruption, moral…
Donna Dodson, Macee Breeding and Michael Dodson all visited on Monday. Reece Goforth, Quin and Macee Breeding and Donna Dodson were here on Wednesday. Donna came by on Thursday. Megan Goforth spent Friday night with Cassidy Dowden. I went with Keith and Melanie Breeding, Reece, Megan, Quin and Macee to…
“And she brought forth her first-born Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger,” Luke 2:7. Christmas was definitely in the air at Black Oak on Sunday. We had our Thanksgiving/Christmas dinner followed by our program at 2:00. The message was good and the children…
Friday James and me attended Delmina Woods Christmas program at the V.F.W. in Ozark. The girls had two short plays. They got lots of nice gifts and a great dinner was served. Huba Rozell, Marie Day and Faye Stevens also attended. Several different clubs, organizations, churches and individuals helped out.…
“Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise. When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph before they came together she was found with child of the Holy Ghost,” Matthew 1:18. My condolences to Kindrick and Mary Leschinsky and Ben Horton children. Michelle, you will be sadly…
December 12 – Caney Baptist came together for Sunday school singing. Bro. Jack Essary welcomed everyone and prayer requests were received. Sis. Charlotte Roberts led in prayer. We are a praying church. We have seen many prayers answered. We thank God for them. Jack read I John 4:13-19 for our…
This Sunday was a lovely day, with warmer weather and sunshine. The Clark Christmas program was well attended and well received. The little angels were angelic and all the songs were in praise of our Lord and Savior born in a lowly manger so long ago. We are all appreciative…
A good Tuesday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a safe and warm weekend as the wind was strong and cold. I didn’t get to go to church as the truck would not start and it was too cold to walk. We want to give a special…
Not a lot has been going on the past couple of weeks. Last week Dick Richards met his cousins, Randy and Max Utchman in Fordland, MO. They all went to see Chester Utchman in the Mt. Vernon hospital. He has been there for some time. After leaving there they drove…
Ho, ho, ho – five more days and Santa will be on his way. That is if you have been good. The Christmas Eve Service will be on Friday, December 24 at 6 p.m. at Seminole. Come and join us as we celebrate the life of Jesus Christ. There will…
The unique culture of Champion has the populace looking backward toward a lost, but not forgotten, past while looking forward simultaneously to a vibrant future. The specter of a full lunar eclipse on the full moon of the first morning of winter is most exciting to Champions. It may be…
A good Tuesday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a safe and happy weekend and the weather is somewhat warmer. The wind is not as gusty as the weekend before. We send get-well wishes to the sick, the ones in the hospitals and the nursing homes. Our…
I talked with Bonnie Phipps Sunday and she said she didn’t make it to church because she didn’t have a good nights rest. I hope she is doing better now. James Blakey came by last Monday after taking Lakota into ball practice before school and I got him to crack…
Christmas 2010 will be history by this time next week and every one can get back into their routine. Christmas time is a wonderful time of the year. If we will remember Christ made it possible for us to have the best gift every given, that is everlasting life through…
Good morning from my house. My goodness can you believe this weather? It could just keep the temperature around 40 as far as I’m concerned. That is plenty cold. We had good services at Frye Church Sunday. Bro. Roger McCullough preached for us. Bro. Dennis and Sis. Jean are gone…
During Sunday morning services we had 13 in attendance. We took prayer requests and then dismissed to our Sunday school classes. The adults studied Matthew chapter 16 and the children’s class learned about the true meaning of Christmas. After Sunday school the children handed out homemade Christmas cards they made…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Prayer was given by Bro. James Moore. Sunday school lesson was, The Birth of Our Savior, Luke 1:28-33, 38 and Luke 2:4-7 and taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson we sang several songs. Special…
I haven’t written since our anniversary party, but I appreciate Sis. Wanda Ray and Sis. Betty for writing. We had a very good service Sunday morning with Br. Benny and Loretta Dewitt preaching and singing. Bro Dewitt preached from Matthew 20:30-34 and Acts 6:10-15 if you want to read the…
Sunday service was opened with prayer, praise and welcoming. The special song was done by Bill and DeDe Arington and Candy Lane. Morning message was brought by Brother Roberts from Luke 2:18-24, “Where is the line to see Jesus? The true gift of Christmas is Christ. Keep Christ in Christmas.”…
Brrrrrr!! What a cold morning and with the wind it seems like the North Pole. I guess it could be worse, so let us be thankful that it isn’t. We had our Christmas dinner and fellowship Saturday night. We had lots of good food and a good time was had…
Roy Hampton opened Sunday school reading the 18th chapter of Luke. He commented on the woman touched by Christ. Just one touch from Him makes all the difference, just the hem of His garment. If we all stayed that close to the Lord, what a difference this world would be.…
We had good services Sunday at Murray. Birthday offering was given by Donna Hall and Rayonna Garner. We had our Christmas dinner at church. Our visitors were Corrina Irwin and family, Lola Graham, Sybil Porter and Freeman. We wish everyone a Merry Christmas.…
Sunday, December 26 was the first Sunday after Christmas and is also the feast of Saint Stephen. The church was ablaze with the color red with poinsettias around the altar and red vestments and altar linens in honor of the martyr Stephen; red is used on the feasts of martyrs.…
Saturday night James and me enjoyed the Eastern Gate Church Christmas program. They had a pretty good night for it not being cold nor windy, rainy or snow. Before we went James and me talked about how we would miss Ethan Hutchison. I thought of him through the program. I…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Prayer was given by Bro. James Moore. Sunday school lesson was, The Testimony of God, John 1:19-34 taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson we sang several songs. Bro. Woodrow Coonce gave prayer. Bro. Raymond…
Sunday, December 26 was the first Sunday after Christmas and is also the feast of Saint Stephen. The church was ablaze with the color red with poinsettias around the altar and red vestments and altar linens in honor of the martyr Stephen; red is used on the feasts of martyrs.…
Bethany Baptist Church participated in Ava’s Christmas Parade, Saturday afternoon. They handed out copies of John and Romans along the parade route. They were pleased to be awarded the Grand Prize for the float. Darlene Sorensen designed the float and Jim Corder built the framework for the giant “peppermint candy…
Donald Fletcher of Fair Grove visited with his brother, Billy Fletcher, Saturday morning before the funeral service of their Uncle Howard McGill. Billy Fletcher and Carol Riggs attended the Nimble Fingers Quilting Club’s Christmas Party at the Squires Community Center, Saturday evening. Billy’s Aunt Jean Daugherty visited with him, Sunday.…
Joe Lafferty opened Sunday school by reading the seventh chapter of Psalms. Clara Lafferty prayed the opening prayer. Lee Hampton taught the adult class in Mark the first chapter. We had very few in Sunday school, but had about 30 before the 11 o’clock service. There is still a big…
From all of us to all of you, Merry Christmas. Our morning message was taken from the second chapter of Luke with an emphasis on the “confirmation” of all the prophecies related to the birth of Jesus. We enjoyed a wonderful time in the Lord this Sunday with our morning…
Bro. Paul was filling in for Bro. Marshall. He greeted us all with a big hello. We had many prayer requests. Sister Lee led in prayer. We sang a song for Jesus and classes took their places. Sister Mary was are leader and as we continued in Acts, chapter 5,…
After 61 years of worshipping in our sanctuary with 3rd, 4th and 5th generations of families coming together, we moved into our new sanctuary on Sunday morning, December 12th, and the spirit of the Lord came with us. We are not finished yet, but we needed our old sanctuary as…
Lowell Johnson is still staying with his parents, Tom and Jewell Johnson, to help out for a time. Tom and Jewell have had lots of phone calls and visits. Lenora Burton, Gary Streight, Paul Welch, Raymond and Naida Haden, and Nora Mae Edwards all have visited in the last week.…
Pastor Bob and Darlene Sorensen, Luke and Sally entertained members of Bethany Baptist Church and friends in their home Friday evening. There was a lot of good food for the occasion and lots of good conversation. The folks at Bethany Baptist Church enjoyed the Soup and Pie Fellowship, Sunday evening…
This time of the year Champions are much given over to reminiscing. Remembered events are often more clear after a passage of time and things that happened this morning or yesterday have to have been significant to compete with a favorite childhood memory or some global event. Some of those…
Saturday night and Sunday cold wind chilled the December shopping, and church attendance also, as it was hard to wrap up enough to keep warm. Roger and Lanell Long and Rhonda Newton made a trip to Georgia in November and visited Rhonda’s cousin, Renee (Lewis) Melton. They went on to…
Last Weeks News – Sunday morning service was opened with congregational singing of Christmas carols. Brother Roberts brought the message from Matthew 1:18-25, “Problems and Promises of Christmas.” Tillie Fowler did a beautiful job of singing a special. At 11:00 A.M., the children between 3-10 years of age, gave a…
I wonder how many people have a welcome mat that says “Merry Christmas!” I know I don’t. I think my New Year’s Resolution will be to get a “Merry Christmas” mat. I found it as a suggestion in a little book called, “101 Ways to Have a Christian Christmas”. Sometimes…
This Lord’s Day was a windy, winter day, but the warmth of Christian fellowship made it a wonderful day in the Lord. Our morning message came from Luke 1:26-38 and our focus was on the “Preparations” that were made for the coming of the Lord. We make extensive and elaborate…
Erna Marie was her name. She was a playmate from childhood. Somewhere in the early years, she began to get sick. A lot of times she could only sit. There was no energy in her for anything else. But, she was always pleasant, and it was just nice to sit…
Christmas is almost here, but I feel like I have experienced the joy of remembering the Birth of our Savior several times lately. My husband and I attended the Christmas concert benefit for the Pregnancy Options Clinic on Saturday afternoon at the First Southern Baptist Church of Ava. The Christmas…
Debbie Cederlind came to Ava Friday night and stayed with her mother, Bonnie Phipps. Saturday Debbie, Bonnie and Cecilia went over and parked Debbie’s jeep and watched the Christmas parade from the jeep where they were warm and cozy. Debbie went home Saturday night. Carol Moore came by last Monday…
We didn’t make it to church again this past week. It was too cold for me to be out, and the wind was just bad on Saturday. Bob, Linda and I did drive to town and sat in the car and watched the parade. It was brave of so many…
During Wednesday night Bible study we had a good discussion and study. We went over several topics relating to “Wielding the Christian Influence.” When I think of the word “wield” I think of holding a sword. To me having the word of God in our lives is our sword against…
We opened church with prayer request. We are praying for Larry Vinson’s grandbaby, Cory Rush, Norma Fry, Bob Fleetwood, Dessie Miller, Chase (Little Man), Betty’s niece – “Patty Jennings, Ellie Doran, Loy and Jean and daughter, Gayle, Marie Long, Jerry and Glenda Miller, Robert and Dorothy Grisham. Sunday, December 19…
It was a typical wintry day for church on Sunday, however, it was a good day to be in God’s house. Our group was smaller than usual, due to the weather, but we had a good Sunday school lesson and church service. We have many still on the prayer list,…
Well, we finally fired up the wood furnace this week to counter act the blast of very cold, wind driven air that came our way. It felt good too. There’s nothing like wood heat to warm a house. We don’t use it all the time, but we certainly can tell…
Bonnie Phipps said she got out and went to church Sunday, but it was cold. I guess we will have to grin and bear it. Last Monday I received two-tenths of an inch of rain in my gage. Mark brought me some eggs last Monday. Kay stopped last Tuesday and…
Sunday was a busy day at my house. We had an early Christmas get-together with lots of food, goodies and family. Those attending were Bob, Linda, Jessie, Jenna, and Wyatt Davis, a friend of the girls, Megan; Barb, Jack, Miracle, Bob and Susie, Delayna, Terry, Chance, Kayla, Taylor and Tenley,…
Opening prayer to start our Sunday morning service was given by our superintendent, Doug Miller. Our Sunday school lesson was on “Receiving Comfort And Strength”. The prophet Isaiah encouraged the people to invite God back in their nation and lives. Sin often causes hardship and pain. God offers us comfort…
Sunday, December 12 was the third Sunday in advent, known also in the Anglican tradition as Rose Sunday as the altar and vestment colors are rose symbolizing a lightening of the advent penitence as well as the new life we look forward to in Christ. The third candle on the…
We had a good attendance this Sunday and a few of our members are getting over viruses and the flu. It sure is hard to get rid of that stuff. I don’t care what you take. Roy Hampton opened Sunday school by talking about trying to walk a better Christian…
The weather seems to be showing signs that winter is on the way, but the sun is out and that always helps. We had a small group for Sunday school, but when God is there it doesn’t matter. Bro. Paul (filling in for Bro. Marshall) greeted us all with a…
We really would have liked for you to have been in our morning worship service this past Lord’s day. Our message was drawn from Matthew 20:20-22 with the emphasis on our personal responsibility to hear God’s word and submit to His will in our lives. After morning worship we adjourned…
Greetings from our community and James and me wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. The Lord’s will we will celebrate 30 years together on December 31, maybe we will be in a good church service somewhere. Maybe at a good spiritual church service at Cardwell Chapel…
Things are quite busy around Ava General Baptist Church as we prepare to welcome the celebration of the birth of our Savior Jesus. Choirs have been practicing, people are learning lines for the Christmas play and children are learning new songs and skits for their Sunday school program presentation. We…
During Wednesday night Bible study we went over a few different discussion points. We talked about Idleness in the church, what we can do to avoid apostasy and what is expected from us by God as being Christians. We had nine at Bible study and had good discussion and study.…
On Monday, December 6, Pastor Neal and Rick Crum along with Jerry Pitts and a friend traveled to Jackson, Missouri to get the pews for our new sanctuary. The carpet is all laid so now we lack doors and trim. Van Menzies and Danny Johnson have been working on the…
It was a great day to be in God’s house, we appreciate our visitors as well as our faithful group. There are many prayer concerns in our church and community, some facing surgery, continue to remember each one of these. Brother Jim Norman and wife, Marge, were our guests Sunday…
Christmas is in the air. One can feel it, see it, and hear it everywhere one goes through the crispness of the air, the beautiful Christmas decorations hanging in window fronts, in yard trees and elsewhere, and the sounds of Christmas carols resonating over the airways and in big department…
Good morning on this gray, cold Tuesday morning, guess I’ll try and write some news. My goodness tomorrow is December 1. How this year has flown. Ann Collins spent from Saturday, November 20 until Wednesday the 24th in Springfield visiting Carol Wise and Riley, they brought her home and spent…
11-29-10. I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving. I know I did, twice. We went to my daughter, Anita and her husband, Carl’s for dinner on Thursday. I really enjoyed visiting with them again. Grandson, Jared, was there and Lisa came later on. Carl’s brother was there as well. We…
The folks at Bethany Baptist Church are getting ready for the Christmas Parade, Saturday. Packets have been prepared to hand out and finishing touches are being made on the float. Norma Stillings sang a solo, Sunday morning before Pastor Sorensen brought a message from Acts 16:16-36 on “How To Recover…
Billy Fletcher visited his uncle, Howard McGill, at the Heart of the Ozarks Healthcare Center, Friday, to help celebrate Howard’s 98th birthday. Howard passed away Monday morning just three days after his birthday. Carl and Joan Fletcher of Bois D’arc visited with Billy Fletcher on the way to the farm,…
John and Peter were fishermen. It says in Acts 4:13 they were unlearned and ignorant. Because of this, the Sanhedrin were mystified about how they could perform a miracle. A man, born crippled, was now able to walk. This miracle was no easy task. It was well known that the…
A good frosty Tuesday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a happy and safe weekend. We send get-well wishes to all the sick, the ones in the hospitals and the nursing homes. May you be up and about real soon. Our sympathy to all who have lost…
“And Jacob begat Joseph, the husband of Mary of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ,” Matthew 1:16. Last weekend Kurt, Sonya and Clara Jaques were visiting Sonya’s parents, Edgar and Sharon Stewart. Eddie and Linda Sears visited Eddie’s mother and his side of families last weekend. Wednesday Gary…
December 1 – Caney met Wednesday evening with singing. Bro. Hi Lambeth took charge of the service. Prayer requests were taken and Bro. Jeff Shipley led in prayer. Bro. Hi read Eccl. 1, only wisdom in the Lord is worth anything. Everything else is vanity or worthless. We always have…
Well, good morning from my house. My goodness we knew this cold weather was coming, but I wish it wouldn’t last too long. I just can’t seem to get warm and stay that way. We had good services at Frye Church. We missed those out not feeling well. Last week…
We had good service over the weekend. Dan opened up in prayer then he led the congregation in some songs. The children took up the penny march. Darrel taught us a good lesson. We sure enjoy his teachings. Specials were sung by Esther’s Sunday school class, she sure does a…
“And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free,” John 8:32. And what is the truth? Jesus is the Son of God who freely gave His life on the cross that you and I could have eternal life in heaven. We were thankful to have Brother…
Donna Dodson and Macee Breeding were here on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Michael and Corrina Dodson went to Springfield on Monday. Jo Stephens visited Gene and Rheba Pool Tuesday and Saturday. Jo Stephens and Lisa Hensley went to Springfield one day. Danny Bushong had two teeth cut out on…
We have beautiful sunshine this Monday, but the frost is still on the rooftops at mid-day. We have no wind, but it’s just plain cold and will stay with us for a while. Sunday services were special because Pastor Don was back for both services. His message was from Isaiah…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Prayer was given by Sis. Diane Strunks. Sunday school lesson was, The Word Made Flesh, John 1:1-5 and 10-14 taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson we sang several songs. Sister Elsie Atchison gave prayer.…
The cold wind really moved in last week and is causing us to “bundle up” when going outside, getting used to winter time. Here’s to “better” U.S. Postal Service deliveries! Hopefully, I won’t get more mail damaged as I received the past week, an envelope shredded with a card or…
Sunday morning service was opened with instrumentals by Randy and Venita Brummet, Linda Stillings and Margaret Rosseau. The congregation then sang a hymn then three new converts were baptized. Tillie Fowler sang a beautiful song for a special. Brother Roberts brought the morning message from Matthew 22:34-40, “Making the Best…
John and Peter were fishermen. It says in Acts 4:13 they were unlearned and ignorant. Because of this, the Sanhedrin were mystified about how they could perform a miracle. A man, born crippled, was now able to walk. This miracle was no easy task. It was well known that the…
A good Tuesday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving holiday and I bet the turkey wasn’t the only one who got stuffed. We send get-well wishes to all the sick, the ones in the hospitals, and the nursing homes. We hope your road to…
“Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering for he is faithful that promised, “ Hebrews 10:23. Paul and Honie Johnson visited us this week. Rainy Thanksgiving Day, Gary and I went to Rayford and Freda Clayton’s at Longrun. We got back before the little snow and…
James and David Halcomb had a good fishing trip Friday, November 19. James had a two week vacation and David had one week off. I was glad to hear Wyatt Applegate’s surgery went good. His grandpa, Jerry Nelson, told James he was back home. Jerry’s company was Jim Anderson, Doug…
November 24 – We met at Caney the night before Thanksgiving. Service began with singing. Bro. Jim Lafferty took charge of the service. Prayer request and praise reports were given. Sis. Charlotte Roberts led in prayer. Jim read Psalms 1, Matthew 7:13-14, 21-23 and Revelations 2:10. There is no consolation…
Happy birthday to Leo and Peggy Litwiller of Taneyville. Her daughter, Kristy Beth of Arkansas had Thanksgiving dinner with her at the nursing home. Michael Dodson, Donna Dodson and Macee Breeding were here on Monday. Those here for Thanksgiving were Donna Dodson, Michael, Corrina, Chase and Bryse Dodson, Butch and…
“For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest altogether,” Psalms 139:4, was our key verse this week. God not only knows our words but our thoughts as well. Brother Roy read I John 3:18-24 for our devotion after we sang. Our prayer list…
There was a chill in the air Sunday, but plenty of sunshine. December comes in on Wednesday. Our White River Valley Electric Co-op gives us suggestions for saving energy costs and they are appreciated when power outages come to get power back quickly. Paralee Rea and Lunetta Murrill went to…
Georgia Sanders hosted a Thanksgiving noontime meal in the Jenkin’s building in Goodhope Thursday. Those attending were Norma Cross, Randy Jenkins and Sue and Peggy Jenkins; Scott and Missy and Megan Richards from Cape Girardeau, MO.; Gerride and Kate Reeves; Josh and Luke from Cape Girardeau; Ron and Shelia Sanders…
There were some folks that didn’t get to have Thanksgiving dinner where they had planned because of the weather. Bonnie Phipps and Cecilia Edwards ate Thanksgiving dinner with Michael and Wendee Freeman and family and they ate deer meat that Cody had killed and everyone enjoyed it then Roy and…
Last Weeks News – Several prayer requests were shared as we came together on our Lord’s Day. Happy birthday was sung to Makinna Humbyrd, who will be 5 years old on Thanksgiving Day. Testimonies were shared. Pastor Neal prayed and read from II Peter, II Timothy and Hebrews 10. He…
We continue to pray for the many needs of our church, the community and the nation, at this time of the year it seems there are so many more. We are truly thankful for our blessings and to be citizens of a free country. We continue to practice on our…
For this Thanksgiving week, we have had all kinds of weather from sunshine to rain and light snow to sunshine and this Monday light rain. Wednesday the 17th was a very sad time for Pastor Don and Becky, and all of Seminole Church. Don and Becky’s one and only child,…
Everything is good on Little Creek with all coming down to reality after a holiday of abandoned diets and abundant over indulgent delicious food. Most of us cook more healthy meals with low fat and low sugar and less white carbs on other days and so then meals may be…
Good morning. The first of December has arrived. According to the calendar, winter will arrive on Dec. 21. From the temperatures we have been experiencing lately one would think that winter is already here. But, we haven’t seen the likes of winter until after January. We will have more temps…
11-22-10. What? Well as usual I can hardly believe this month is about over then it’s the big Christmas month, our dear Lord Jesus’ birthday and all the hectic shopping up to the last minute, but not me. I don’t think I have to do any shopping, I hope, unless…
Last Weeks News – During the morning service we had 12 attend. We started out the morning with prayer requests and then dismissed to Sunday school. The adults studied in Matthew, chapters 10 and 11. After Sunday school the children sang a couple of songs for the congregation and then…
Champion is the kind of place that makes it easy to express Gratitude. It is a relaxed and peaceful pastoral glen amid hills and fields with the little town square in the middle and the little church down near the creek under the big trees. Louis Untermeyer was not from…
Sunday, December 12 was the third Sunday in advent, known also in the Anglican tradition as Rose Sunday as the altar and vestment colors are rose symbolizing a lightening of the advent penitence as well as the new life we look forward to in Christ. The third candle on the…
Praise God, isn’t He good to us? We trust you had a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends, food and fond memories. We did and there was so much to be thankful for. This Sunday our morning message was about “Success”, how we see it and how God sees it.…
Opening prayer to start our Sunday morning service was given by our superintendent, Rod Welker. Our Sunday school lesson was “God Is All Knowing”. He created us so He knows everything about us. If we truly want to know ourselves we will seek to know God and His word and…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Prayer was given by Sis. Vera Dixon. Sunday school lesson was, The Last Days of Judah, II Kings 25:2-12 taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson we sang several songs. Special music was performed by…
Bob, Linda and I went to Springfield on Sunday morning to visit with Mary and Terry McCleary. Mary seemed to be doing a little better. We also visited with Margaret, Delmar, Nora and Lee one day. James visited with Theta, Leo and family over Thanksgiving. Bob, Linda and I visited…
We had good service over the weekend. Sunday morning opened up with prayer. Then Bro. Dan led the congregation in some songs. The children then took up the penny march. Bro. Darrel taught a good lesson from Luke 2. Esther and the children sang specials. She sure does a good…
Our pastor, Bob Sorensen, his wife, Darlene, and children, Luke, and Sally, returned home Saturday after a Thanksgiving visit with Darlene’s parents, Don and Doris Taschner, in St. Louis. Dan Stillings sang a special Sunday morning. The Jubilee Singers sang in the evening. Pastor Sorensen brought a message on “Giving…
Larry Johnson, his son, Kent Johnson, and grandson, Kodie Johnson, had lunch with Tom and Jewell Johnson one day last week. Bob and Janice Keith visited with Tom and Jewell, Saturday evening. Tom and Jewell had Thanksgiving Dinner with Kent and Kim Johnson’s family, Thursday and then another big dinner…
We had congregational singing followed by many prayer requests for safety, for the bereaved, those very ill, some of our grandchildren, and several of our own group still having health problems. We pray especially for the unsaved in our communities. We are thankful for all the blessings we are allowed…
Bonnie Phipps said she was doing okay and that she went to church Sunday. Carol Moore came by last Monday evening and picked me up and we went over and got Marie Dickey and we all went to our O.E.S. meeting here in Ava. Tom and Mary Martha Williams, Marie…
Last Weeks News – Kailey and Kinsey Thompson had to miss school last week due to a bug going around and I came down with it a couple of days. Dick and Pauline Richards went to Plainview School Thursday to watch the students sing several songs to honor Veteran’s Day.…
November 10 – Caney came together Wednesday evening with singing. Pastor Bill Austin took charge of our Wednesday Bible study. Prayer requests were taken. Bro. Hi Lambeth led in prayer. Bro. Bill read Romans 12:1-21. The church is like a body when our little finger hurts so does the entire…
Bob, Linda and I went to church Sunday morning and also stayed and enjoyed our monthly dinner and visiting. Our visitors this week have been Carol and Robert Johnson, Barb, Jack, Miracle and Bob and Susie. I’ve had phone visits with Max and Pauline Singleton of Washington, my sister, Violet,…
This Thursday most folks will enjoy family and friends, giving thanks to our forefathers who made America, our land, not forgetting our supreme sacrifice for Thanksgiving. A belated anniversary wish to Harold and Velma Strain. Harold shared his good turnip crop with many folks at Tuesday night music party and…
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. As I write, I am looking forward to having many of our family members share a Thanksgiving meal with my husband and I. We enjoyed sharing a special, Thanksgiving meal with our church family at Red Bank last Sunday afternoon. The food was so delicious that…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Prayer was given by Bro. James Moore. Sunday school lesson was, A King Who Loved God, II Kings 1:7, II Kings 19:5-7 and II Kings 20:1-6 taught by Ronnie Epps. After a good Sunday school lesson we sang…
11-15-10. I hope everyone is doing okay. I know everyone isn’t but that’s a bit of wishful thinking. It was cold and rainy over the weekend. It was in the twenties last night, but has stopped raining. It went back up to 48 degrees this morning. The rainy cold weather…
Last Weeks News – Sunday morning we woke up to a heavy frost then headed to church where the service was opened with prayer requests then prayer and praise while welcoming everyone. The morning special was beautifully done by Venita Brummet, accompanied by her husband, Randy Brummet. Brother Roberts brought…
“O give thanks unto the Lord, call upon His name, make known His deeds among the people,” Psalm 105:1. Gary and I visited his mother, Maxine Turner and David Wednesday in Ava. Gary visited Rayford and Freda Clayton. Gary has been killing a lot of armadillos around their place at…
You really should have been there! We enjoyed a wonderful Lord’s day of praise and worship with our message from Psalm 18, “I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised; so shall I be saved from mine enemies.” Following the morning service we had communion and…
It’s shaping up to be a beautiful fall Saturday in the Ozarks. Kevin and Mark came by yesterday with deer tenderloin and ground venison. I am very appreciative. If there’s one thing I miss, it’s venison. Yes the woods and hills have been alive with the sounds of gunfire, as…
Opening prayer to start the Sunday morning service was said by Rod Welker and dismissal to Sunday school classes was by Narvil Tetrick. Our lesson was “God Delivers and Protects” from Psalm 91 reminds us of God’s protection and care of His children in the face of all the dangers…
A good Monday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a great weekend. We send get-well wishes to all the sick, the ones in the hospitals and the nursing homes. May you be up and about real soon. May God bless you in your time of sorrow. Our…
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. My sympathy to all the family and friends of Paul Himioben of Georgia who passed away on Sunday. He was Virgie Bushong’s husband. Those here for breakfast on Monday were Donna Dodson and Macee Breeding and Juanita Kazenske. Juanita also visited Joe and John Stephens Monday.…
“Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most high,” Psalm 50:14 was the scripture for Pastor David’s message on Sunday morning. We all have so much to be thankful for. Brother Roy read Isaiah 52:7-12 for the devotion after the singing of the good old hymns. Brother…
Sunday school opened with prayer. We had congregational singing. The children took up the penny march. Bro. Darrell taught the class from Luke, chapter 2. Esther Hankins teaches the children. Bro. Hall preached from I Thess. 4:16-17. His text was titled Meeting In The Air. It was a good message.…
There is a little chill in the air this morning, but a good day in all. Bro. Paul filled in for Bro. Marshall. He opened Sunday school with a big hello. We had prayer requests and prayer. We had a song and our Sunday school leader, Sister Naomi, read from…
There is a story about a new pastor. He had accepted a pastorate in Houston, Texas. After being there for a while, he had an occasion to ride the bus downtown. Getting on the bus, he paid the fare and got his change. When he got back to his seat,…
The Blue Moon came to Champion very early Sunday morning bathing the tranquil hills and valleys in a quiet soft silver light. Some define the blue moon as the second full moon in a single month and others adhere to an earlier definition as the third moon of a season…
Sam Frye has been keeping up with his sisters and kids in Illinois and Texas by phone and they are doing about the same. Sam was planning a trip to Texas to visit his daughters and their families there. He’s been going to church and other community events. Sam said…
Joe and Ione Gammon of the Lighthouse Baptist Ministries were guests at Bethany Baptist Church, Sunday. The Lighthouse Baptist Ministries focuses on helping and encouraging missionaries as they serve the Lord around the world. They currently are set up to provide expert help in crating and shipping missionary belonging and…
The Midianites were dessert warriors who raided the Israelites at harvest time. Riding camels they would swoop into the northern farm country and take whatever they could. It says in Judges that their numbers were like the locusts. The farmers had little protection and the sight of the raiders on…
11-8-10. So far, so good. We haven’t had any real bad weather yet, just down in the twenties a few times at night, but still decent during the day, but we know it can’t last much longer. At least the longer it waits to turn bad the less time we…
Last Weeks News – Saturday morning we had white covered rooftops on McCann Ave., but cannot see anything hurt as the flowers are still in bloom. This Monday afternoon is full of sunshine and it’s streaming through the windows with warmth and it feels good. This fall the trees are…
The sun is shining in Champion and it is cool, but not too cool to work out and so rather than complain in vain about the lack of rain, Champions are out and busy doing all the things that they would not be able to do if it were raining. …
Another beautiful day in the Ozarks that the Lord has made. The colors are about gone and the trees are looking bare, but that is the time of the year we are in. Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Yum, yum. Just remember to give thanks to the Lord for…
Church started Sunday morning by singing. Ronnie Epps took over as superintendent. Prayer was given by Bro. James Moore. Sunday school lesson was, The Final Countdown For Israel, II Kings 13:4-6, II Kings 156:17-20, II Kings 17:21 and 22 taught by Ronnie Epps. We sang several songs and prayer was…
Joe Lafferty opened Sunday school by reading Psalms 67. Clara Lafferty led the opening prayer. The lesson was Matthew 24 about the coming of the Lord. Lee Hampton was our teacher. Laurel Bengston led the offering prayer. We put in more questions today. Wilma Hampton said she likes to look…
We had good services Sunday. We opened up in prayer then the congregation was led in some songs. The children took up the penny march. Bro. Darrel taught a good lesson from Luke 2. We sure enjoyed his teachings. Sis. Esther sang a special and her class also sang. Darrel…
Prayer concerns shared were for our nation, leaders, troops, lost loved ones, Scott Nall, who is going to Saudi Arabia for a year, Janet Dalton and others. Patty Siler prayed this prayer. Billy Hodges thanked the church for our prayers this week as he had tests, a procedure and a…
A good Tuesday morning to all our readers. We hope everyone had a great weekend. I had a lot of frost on the pumpkin Sunday morning in the bottom at the farm. I’m sure it was nice and crisp for the deer hunters, but still no rain in sight. On…
The stop signs have been changed in our neighborhood in order to slow traffic coming off of Highway 5. This has not slowed traffic coming up and down 13th Street, but it should make it safer for children and the elderly who walk on or near 4th and 9th avenues.…
Several members of Bethany Baptist Church got together, Friday morning to put together packets for the Christmas Parade. Each packet has a small candy cane in it. A lot of people turned out to help and the work was done in short order. The Jubilee Singers sang in the morning…
Sunday, November 14 was the twenty-fourth Sunday after trinity. It was also the annual Harvest Festival at which time we collect items for the Food Harvest of the Ozarks and a good number of items were brought to the church as donations. As always the altar guild under the leadership…
Opening prayer for our Sunday service was led by Rod Welker. Our Sunday school lesson was focused on showing and reminding us that our lives are truly very short, we are encouraged to make the most of our days because they are few, we must rely on God’s wisdom and…
“Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened that it cannot save, neither his ear heavy that it cannot hear, “ Isaiah 59:1. I am thankful for veterans like my grandpa, Louin Fry, who served in World War I in France; my uncle, Virgil Fry, who served in the Korean War;…
We had a crisp Sunday morning this weekend, but our ladies put together a wonderful lunch after morning worship services before having a first practice session for the annual Christmas program. Our Women’s Prayer group will meet at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday the 17th, everyone is welcome. Our morning message…
