Prayer Updates - April 2026***Help us keep our prayer list current and up to date! After thirty days upon receiving a request, we will remove it if not updated. Thank you for your help and your diligent prayers.*** Ron Kutchen (Fay Thompson's brother-in-law) is blind in one eye , his cataract surgery went well and he is back home. We are praying for healing with out any complications and that his eyesight will improve. (4/8/26)
Angi Ruport’s cancer has returned; she began a series of treatments on 4/2. They are to be administered consecutively, 21 days apart. After treatment they will do a CT to determine how to proceed moving forward. We are praying for her body to be cancer free once again. (4/7/26)
Julie White’s mom Linda Casson, passed 4/6. She is at peace and without pain. Please pray for peace, comfort and strength for Julie and her family during this difficult time. (4/7/26)
Jody Dooley had a biopsy of a lump on her breast. She is scheduled for surgery on April 23, then possible radiation treatment after that. (4/3/26)
Tom Boh is having surgery on April 7 to have a pacemaker put in! (4/3/26)
Vicki Skiles’ great niece, Alora, was born with multiple heart complications. We are praying for the wisdom and ability of her doctors to correct the problems. Praying also for a miracle of healing in her life so she will live long and be strong and healthy. Praying for the family as they go through this difficult time. (3/27/26)
Joyce Busch (Vicki Skiles’s mother) is in AFib and congestive heart failure. She is doing ok for now but will be seeing doctors soon to determine the next steps in her health care. We are praying for good results and a strong heart moving forward. (3/27/26)
Jeff Busch (Vicki Skiles’ brother) passed on Sunday night, 3/15. Pray for the family as they go through the grief process. (3/27/26)
Denny Davis (Terry Whitney’s cousin) passed away 3/25. Pray for the family as they grieve his passing. (3/26/26)
Owen Grimes (Whitnie Hutchinson’s son, Bill & Tracy’s grandson) had surgery today for ear tubes, tonsils, and adenoids. We are praying for his quick and painless healing without any complications. Also for Whitnie’s peace of mind as she cares for him. (3/26/26)
Diana Benda (Tracy Hutchinson’s sister) had eye surgery today. We are praying for her surgery to be 100% successful and that her healing will be without any complications. (3/26/26)
Dan Snelson passed Saturday the 28th. Please keep the family in your prayers. The family has chosen not to have a funeral service. (3/30/26)
Michelle Gennarelli (Mike Rains’ sister) has breast cancer. We are praying for her full remission and healing. Also, for wisdom as she goes through the treatment process. (3/24/26)
Andy (Mike Rains ‘brother-in-law) has prostate cancer. We are praying for his remission and healing. (3/24/26)
Donna Bennum had a scare with an irregular heartbeat; she is back home and doing OK. She will be wearing a halter monitor for a week to monitor her heart to see how to proceed moving forward. We are praying for a strong heart and good health. (3/26/26)
Tommy Cox (Gary’s younger brother) has been diagnosed withLewy body dementia involving his frontal cortex. It causes a rapid decline in cognitive abilities, dementia, and the physical symptoms of Parkinson's disease. There is no cure for it. He just had a right knee replacement and is in therapy for that as well. We are praying for healing and wisdom in how to deal with his physical issues going forward. Praying also for his salvation. (3/27/26)
Ronnie Cox (Gary’s older brother) lives in Arkansas and is in the hospital after emergency surgery for a blocked bowel, 3/26/26. He also has fibromyalgia and difficulty breathing because of his COPD. Praying for his healing and recovery without complications. Praying also for his salvation. (3/27/26)
David Fouch’s (great nephew of Gary Cox) wife Megan was killed in a tragic car accident on 3/18, leaving behind her husband and four young children eleven and under. Praying for David and his four young children as they face difficult days, weeks, and years ahead, and begin to navigate this unimaginable tragedy. (3/26/26)
Josiah Waddle (Gary and Lori’s grandson) was in a car accident, and a piece of broken windshield severed a tendon in his hand which required surgery. He had a hard cast put on this week which he will have to wear for a month. After it is removed, he will need physical therapy. Overall, it is healing well. He is still dealing with legal consequences. Continuing to pray for physical healing, wise life choices, faithfulness, and a full-time job. (3/27/26)
Robert Stephens (father of Casey St. Arnold, a friend of Whitnie Hutchinson) completely lost his house in a fire yesterday. Pray for the family to lean on God in this hard time. If you’d like to donate to this family in need, reach out to Whitnie for the family’s Venmo code. (3/26/36)
Dave Peterson (friend of Dan Dickey) was vomiting blood and went into ICU yesterday. He's from Pleasant Hill and in the patriot guard with John Ellis and Dave Torres. Praying for his health. (3/18/26)
Gabe Lee is with his mother in Malaysia; she is getting weaker and not really responding. She opens her eyes at times, but Gabe is not sure if she recognizes him at this point. She still has NG tube and is on oxygen at times. One of the Chinese-speaking pastors has shared the gospel with her and prayed with them. We are praying for God’s peace, grace, mercy, love, and the gift of life everlasting will be received by his mom. Gabe is planning to return March 31st, and we are praying for travel mercies, and safety. (3/26/26)
Kim Smith’s cousin, Madison VanEngen; age 32, has a Lymphoblastic Leukemia being treated in isolation for a month at a time at Mayo. The bone marrow biopsy results came back, and is giving flags for both B cell and T cell, so technically it is a mixed acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. The results also showed it is in about 80% of her bone marrow which isn’t news we wanted to hear. She and her husband have 4 kids; the oldest is 10 -youngest is 2. Pray for these treatments and care to take and be successful, giving her a healthy life in raising her kids as a family. Pray for their peace, support network, and provision during this time! Help her walk with Jesus to be strengthened as she navigates this unknown journey surrounding every step along the way. (3/13/26)
Evan (Liz Rhodes’ grandson) after a two-year ordeal with cancer, this young man is in maintenance now and will be until mid-July, when he will finally be done with treatment. He still takes a daily chemo pill at home, has a monthly appointment at the hospital, and every three-month spinal injection of chemo. It has been an overwhelming journey for the whole family, and it is only by the grace of God they have continued to move forward, daily, together. We are praying for a lifelong remission for Evan and that the whole family will be able to enjoy a “normal” life once again. A time of peace, comfort, and happy tranquility to just live and grow as a family with God. Thank you for your continued prayers. (3/27/26)
Rising Sun Church of Christ; We are asking you to be in prayer daily for God to raise up and send the right people to serve Him with us here at Rising Sun in the positions of Creative Arts Minister and Executive Director Minister. (4/1/26)
Aaron Wickett (Ken Wicket's great nephew) was in an accident and has a broken ankle and is to have surgery today for that, and then hip surgery tomorrow. He also has a broken clavicle, facial injuries, and a brain bleed. He is in ICU Mercy downtown. Both vehicles involved were burnt up. The other person involved was life flighted to the hospital as well. We are praying for their recovery. (3/10/26)
Julie Kriegel (Dan Smith’s Cousin, Jim DePauw's sister) has breast cancer, and it has spread to her lymph nodes and other areas. She will be working with the doctors at Mayo soon. We are praying for her healing and full remission. (3/9/26)
Zach and Abby Squires’ youngest son, Wilder, has been and struggles with RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and low oxygen. He is doing much better and recovering well. We are praying for his lungs to become clear and healthy, and for peace for Zach and Abby. (3/26/26)
Michelle Wiedmann's father just passed. Pray for the family as they both celebrate and mourn his passing. Also seeking prayers for her mother, Elaine, as she adjusts to life without him. (3/27/26)
Ted (Vickie Brown’s younger brother is fighting bone cancer. He receives outpatient treatment at Mayo Clinic every few weeks. He is in good spirits. We are praying for his full recovery. Vickie is dealing with therapy for a torn rotator cuff and is having a few other health issues, we are praying for her health and strength as well. (3/27/26)
Gaylord Victora, friend of the Coxes and Browns, is dealing with several health issues: A-FIB, seizures, sleep-apnea, and amnesia. He is unable to drive as a result and has several doctors’ appointments to figure out how to deal with these medical problems. He is scheduled for a stress test on April 1st and a cardioversion on the 2nd. We are praying for answers and solutions for better health. (3/27/26)
Josh & Ashley DeBruin are facing litigation concerning a countersuit from a contractor. We are praying for justice in the matter on their behalf. (3/27/2)
Heather Wagner’s student, Hunter, after a major accident last July, remains non-verbal, unable to effectively communicate and fighting for his life. He is ready to be released from the hospital but can't go home due to a nursing shortage. He requires 16-hour in-home nursing care, because of his injuries. He also requires nursing care to be able to attend school. Please pray that Hunter can not only find nurses for home and school. His healing will require a miracle from God. It has recently been decided that he will be the recipient of our Holy Smokes offerings this summer. (3/25/26)
Jane Miller is getting better, and she praises and thanks for all the prayers. We are praying for her to regain her full strength and stamina. (3/24/26)
Scott Seiberling’s mother broke her left leg 2/10. She was able to return home this week and slowly getting around, which is an answer to prayer. (3/24/26)
Myles Patterson (Tanner & Samantha’s youngest)is doing better and has gained 12 oz. since March 3rd. We are still praying for Myles’ weight gain, to thrive, and become strong, healthy. We are also praying that God will replace the stress and anxiety Samantha is feeling with calm and peace as she cares for her busy family. 3/24/26)
Kurt Shivers (Joey’s dad) after his strokes, is out of the hospital again but still having many health issues with his esophagus, heart, and sleep. Being able to be on a C-PAP and sleeping better has been a big help. Pray for a great improvement in Kurt’s health and overall quality of life. This situation continues to be very stressful and difficult for Joey and his family as they try to balance personal life, work and caring for Kurt’s needs. Pray for Joey and family as they continue to care for Kurt. (3/27/26)
SEP School Board: Several key positions of the school district have become vacant due to recent retirements. Please ask the Lord to fill these roles with individuals who love and follow Jesus and can help lead our community and schools in a God-honoring way. There are several Christ followers at the district office, which is so encouraging! Praying the Lord will extend His grace on our community and bring more people to engage the culture and live out their faith in the public square. (3/27/26)
Kathryn Kueter is doing well with her arm and may no longer need physical therapy after this week. Her pregnancy is going well, and she is due any time in the next few weeks. We are praying for a safe and healthy delivery for mother and daughter. (3/24/26)
Steve Crocker’s X-rays show everything is healed well, no restrictions at all - which is a huge praise! He still needs to wear the bone stimulator for four hours a day until he sees his doctor for his final follow-up on April 20th. We are praying for long-lasting results. (3/25/26)
Jason Smith will be having surgery April 9th at Saint Lukes’ Hospital in Cedar Rapids. He will have a 10-pound weightlifting restriction and a 6–10-week recovery afterward. We are specifically praying for his body to be cancer free and that there will be no nerve damage or negative long-term side effects after the surgery. Also praying for peace of mind and spirit as he goes through this process. (3/27/26)
Gabe Lanz's coworker’s Keegan’s son, Liam, has been placed in Orchard Place for treatment and protection for the family. There has been some positive progress ,and Liam had a home visit which went well. Liam needs some blood draws; however, he is terrified of needles which is creating a problem. We are praying for continued progress and the ability to get blood testing done. (3/25/26)
Terry Nereim has begun using her new eye drops made from her own blood plasma serum for her chronic dry eyes. She is seeing some improvement and has an appointment at IA City in May for a more extensive evaluation. Her cataracts are worse, but she is waiting to see what she finds out in May before deciding on cataracts. We are praying for a marked improvement in her eyes. (3/25/26)
Anne Hill (Terry Nereim’s son’s mother-in-law) is home recovering after having five bypass surgery. She continues her rehab. She had another short hospital stay because of fluid on her lungs. We are paying for her full recovery from heart surgery and healthy lungs. (3/25/26)
Kelli Lee (friend of Terry & Demarko Nereim) has kidney cancer and had a kidney removed. Her cancer was not contained; she is continuing chemo treatment. We pray for full remission and recovery without complications. (3/25/26)
Jaelynn Connett (Terry Nereim) is ten years old and has viral meningitis and brain stem encephalitis. She also had seizures and a stroke. She is continuing to recover well and had a very positive influence on everyone involved in her recovery journey. Jaelynn has returned to school, which is a huge answer to prayer. She is continuing with therapy, and we are praying for her continued health, healing, and recovery. (3/25/26)
Cindy Crew (relative of Terry Nereim) recently lost her mother and has been struggling with Babesiosis, which is a rare tick-born parasite illness, for over a year. It is extremely difficult to get rid of it. She has been on a medication which is helping some. She still has a long recovery ahead. They are hopeful that the second round of medication will help her to continue to improve. We are praying for a full recovery. (3/25/26)
Ron Pauley has suffered a major setback in his prostate cancer treatment. His kidneys are not functioning properly, and he is to meet with his doctor to begin a new treatment plan. Praying God’s will, wisdom and for healing. Ron has also asked for prayer for his grandson Landon who has neurological issues which are affecting his mind, he is doing better. (3/2726)
Linda Gilbert (Lynda Gibson) recently had a scan and is waiting on the results to help determine any further sugary and treatment plans. She is slowly getting better. We are praying for her healing, health, and strength mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. (3/25/26)
Bryan and Cindy Herrin, Linda Gibson's brother and sister-in-law, both have health issues. Brian had a good report at his neurologist and his current medication for Parkinsons, along with physical therapy is helping. Cindy’s Alzheimer’s is rapidly getting much worse, and she is to have a CAT scan to check a spot on her bladder soon. They both live with mom, Judy who wants to continue to care for them, however it is very challenging. We are praying for Judy’s continued health and strength as she lovingly cares for them and God’s direction as they work through difficult decisions in how to move forward with health care and family needs for the future. (3/25/26)
Anna Pham (Lynda Gibson’s daughter) is dealing with breast cancer. She had her last chemo treatment on 3/23 and will have a scan on 3/31 to see how her cancer responded to the chemo. She will have surgery sometime in April, no date has been set yet. She is trying to stay healthy and maintain a positive attitude through all of this and continue to work when she can. We are praying for her remission and healing and that she will remain strong in faith and trust thorough it all. (2/27/26)
Karen Boeding (Linda Gibson is ministering to her) has cancer. Doctors found another spot on her brain they are watching. She has limited strength and energy. We are continuing to pray for her healing and recovery and her relationship with God. (3/25/26)
Tim Gibson (Gary Cox’s sister's pastor) has suffered some major setbacks since his cancer brain surgery which has affected his mobility and ability to think clearly. Doctors have found another malignant tumor close to his brain stem, and the cancer has also moved to his lungs. He is still trying to preach but shouldn’t be. He is having a hard time letting go. Praying for Tim as he continues to go through treatment. (3/26/26)
Tammy Cohron’s (Terry Whitney’s cousin) mobility is challenged, but she gets around slowly. She is dealing with loneliness and is having difficulty adjusting to the loss of her husband and retiring at the end of last year. There are no relatives where she lives, so she must depend on friends for help. We are praying for her strength and recovery physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. (3/24/26)
Doug Williams (Terry Whitney’s cousin) has active lung cancer again. We are praying for wisdom in how to proceed after his recent tests and X-ray. We are praying for improved health. (3/24/26)
Adelyn Wheeler (Terry Whitney’s cousin’s daughter), age 13, has an extremely rare genetic blood disease where she is missing a clotting element in her blood. Her doctors are trying to get her on a new medication to see if it will help her condition. Doctors are using other medications at present to try to keep her from bleeding. She must be extremely careful not to be injured in any way. We are praying for her mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health and strength through this difficult lifelong journey. (3/24/26)
Cindy Dooley’s has been recovery from a burst fracture of her L-5 Vertebra for the past eight months. She is finally doing better and able to be more physically active again. She is not back to “normal” yet, but much closer than she was. We continue to pray for full recovery, and to be pain-free again very soon. (3/26/26)
John Jackson (co-worker of Tracy Hutchinson) is in stage four cancer and is in a new trial treatment program. We are praying for his full recovery. (3/27/26)
Brad Davison (Brenda Depauw’s brother) is to have another scan in two months; his last scans revealed the tumor in his lung and stomach have grown. He will be taking chemo every two weeks, and doctors will add another chemo drug to those he is already taking. We are praying for strength and healing. (3/26/26)
Ruth Lourens is having some colon and stomach issues. We are praying for her health, strength, recovery, and rest. (3/25/26)
Jenny Lourens is losing ground with her memory and health. She is having trouble sleeping at night. It is important for her to stay on a schedule, which means Les and Ruth are not able to see her as often as they would like, which is a heart ache for them. We are praying for the family’s comfort and peace as they continue to deal with the things in life that we cannot change. (3/25/26)
Mike & Christina Minnick (Carli Schaffner's daughter and son-in-law) His post- radiation scans showed no cancer in his lymph nodes! He may need to continue immunotherapy treatments every three weeks. We are continuing to pray for full remission and for the whole family to grow closer to God and each other through this journey. (3/27/26)
Carol Huntoon (Donna Bennum’s sister) is healthier but still dealing with dementia. We are praying for her mental and physical health and strength. (3/27/26)
Chelsea (related to Donna Bennum) is in her 40s, she has brain cancer and will be going to Seattle for surgery soon. She is also in custody battle over her 11-year-old daughter. We are praying for Chelsea’s health and for the family to be reunited. (3/27/26)
Robert (Donna Bennum’s nephew) is to be transferred to Fort Des Moines in April. He is to be baptized Easter Sunday at High Point in DSM, and answer to prayer. We are continuing to pray for his wisdom in making better life choices and to grow in Christ. He has 14-year-old twins, a son and daughter, who need our prayers as well. (3/27/26)
Kayla Bennum (Donna and Bill Bennum’s daughter) is back on the streets and has turned down a job from her sister. We are continuing to pray that she will overcome her destructive life choices and place Christ at the center of her life. (3/27/26)
Bill and Donna Bennum, Micah has been tested for autism and is level one which is mild and has ADHS. They now have guardianship of him, which should make things easier in some ways. They are getting some help at school and he is doing better there. We pray for Bill and Donna to have wisdom, strength, and health to continue to be a blessing in Micah’s life, and as they deal with all of life’s other challenges as well. Bill is having some health issues and will be seeing a urologist in the first part of April. (3/27/26)
Janet Wickett had her surgery for her torn rotator cuff. The doctor said it was easy surgery and everything went great. She is back in her hospital room recovering. We are praying for a full recovery without any complications. (3/27/26)
Jeff (Kris Wolf’s brother-in-law) continues his monthly chemo shot. His medical reports are overall positive and He is feeling good. God is answering prayer. We are continuing to pray for healing and quality of life. (3/27/26)
Tedd Norman, the polyps they removed from his stomach were all benign, which is a praise. Things are on hold; he is feeling better but still has pain. We are praying for a diagnosis and cure. (3/27/26)
Todd Norman is still dealing with pain in his legs and feet. We are praying for good health and strength in 2026. (3/27/26)
Mario & Maria Lara; Maria twisted her ankle and is in a lot of pain. Mario has Tinnitus (ringing in his ears). April 24th -26th, going to Angola, Indiana for preaching and promoting the Hispanic convention at New Hope Christian Church in Marshalltown. Please pray for volunteers for the convention. Praying for some time away to rest and recharge as a family. We pray for the family’s health, strength, and spiritual wisdom to lead and serve well together. (3/23/26)
Harrison and Krista Terrill (Chad and Staci’s children) Baby Hudson is doing as well as he can. He is a happy baby, and his joy is a blessing. We continue to pray for God to heal his body, and that as he continues to grow, he will be able to communicate with his family. Krista is expecting their second child, and we are praying for her healthy pregnancy and safe delivery. God is blessing the family. (3/27/26)
Jeannine Derrough (neighbor/friend of Vickie Doerr) has returned; she is looking for a treatment which may cure it. Her faith is strong, and we pray for her healing and for her to stay strong mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. (3/27/26)
PRAISES
Alexis (Liz Rhodes’ granddaughter) gave birth to baby Ruby 5-6 weeks early. They are both home and doing great! (3/25/26)
Tara Thompson ,in answer to prayer , will begin a new full time position with Nationwide on March 30th. A big praise (3/24/26)
MILITARY
Jacob Baird (son of Mike & Tina Rains) address: 128 Sweeney Dr, Biloxi, MS 39531. Pray for his faith journey. (12/30/25)
Lucas Rains (son of Mike & Tina Rains) address is 324 Borough Street, Cheyenne, WY 82007. Praising God that they found a church home. (12/30 /25)
Andrew Skiles and his wife Chantal (Mark & Vicki Skiles) Pray for Andrew and Chantal, as Drew serves in the Army in Germany. Pray for wisdom and favor as he manages soldiers under him and for them to find a Christian community to connect with. (12/30/25)
Send your requests and updates to the church offices or to Gary Cox by emailing garyc@risingsunchurch.org.Birthdays
4/1 Dan Norton
4/1 Tasha Lanz
4/2 Heather Wagner
4/3 Brooke Casebolt
4/3 Michelle Wiedmann
4/4 Adalinn Whitney
4/4 Ethan Howrey
4/4 John Knutson
4/4 Zach Anderson
4/5 Joshua De Bruin
4/6 Aleah Rowland
4/6 Donna Montgomery
4/7 Dennis Erickson
4/8 Amy Dickey
4/8 Josiah Rowland
4/10 Lucy Kramer
4/13 Brent Curry
4/13 Elsa Rose DePenning
4/14 Kent Kyer
4/15 Tony Moore
4/16 Kyleigh Dooley
4/17 Sydney Moore
4/18 Jill Walker
4/18 Phillip Van Klompenburg
4/19 Aurora Patterson
4/19 Dorne Anderson
4/19 Sawyere Roberts
4/20 Maria Lara
4/21 Kate Stahowick
4/21 Tanner Patterson
4/25 Joshuah Lwere
4/27 Mabel Birch
4/27 Tom Bennett
4/30 Danielle Moore
Anniversaries
4/2 Steve & Kim Crocker
4/5 Don & Nancy Rogers
4/12 Doug & Paula Kieler
4/15 Chuck & Sandy Patterson
4/17 Mike & Tina Rains
4/18 Pat & Lynn Stahowick
4/19 Joe & Michele Carlson
4/21 Bob & Kris Young
4/23 Don & Charlotte Anderson
4/24 Gary & Marti Jo McBee