Prayer Requests***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.***Tony and Danielle Moore; The family has been sick and exhausted and are experiencing spiritual oppression. Also, pray for their daughter Abby who is working in a Christian camp this week in Kansas. We are praying for a hedge of protection around the family, for renewed health and strength for the family, and for Abby’s health, strength, and spiritual influence for Christ as she serves. (7/14/25)
Janae (Donna & Bill Bennum's oldest daughter) seems to be settled in and is living on her own and moving forward with her life. We are praying that she can remain financially stable, responsible, and independent. She as awarded SSI Disability which will be a huge help for her moving forward. We are praying for her relationship with God. (7/7/25)
Bill Bennum has not been feeling well for a while and is to have an MRI on Thursday 7/9 for His prostate. His numbers have been running high. We are praying for good results and that he will start feeling well soon. (7/7/25)
Karen Boeding (an individual Linda Gibson is sharing Christ with): Her eyes are stable at this point. Her oncologist was pleased with the results of the brain radiation treatment. She is getting good results and will stay on Kisquali. The spot on her liver and spleen are gone. She has a new spot on her scapula (shoulder blade) but not a big concern at this point. The tumors in her bones are still there but there are no new ones. Please pray for strength to endure further treatments and to keep fighting, along with the peace and comfort that only comes from God. (7/2/25)
Rick & Jane Smith; Jane is having a lot of pain and trouble getting around right now and they trying to figure out why an dh how to fix it. Rick is putting of his hip surgery until Jane is doing better. We are praying both to get better and that the doctors will figure out how to help them and do only good and no harm. (7/7/25)
Kurt Shivers (Joey’s Dad) is out of the hospital, after having had a blood clot in his heart that went to his brain, causing a stroke. He is walking, talking, and eating. Joey is staying with Kurt at his home in Drakesville, IA. He is recovering but still disoriented. We are praying for his full recovery without any setbacks or permanent damage. (6/30/25)
Karie Gilchrist’s dad is hoping to have shoulder surgery soon. He has not been able to schedule it yet and is having a lot of discomfort, as both of his shoulders are hurting. Praying he can get rest and relief soon. (6/16/25)
Larry Slaughter had a fall. He is currently at Arbor Springs in West Des Moines. He is to finish his physical therapy by Monday, June 30, and, if all goes well, he will get to go home. We are praying for wisdom, for those who care for him as he heals and gets stronger. Also praying for Janice and the family. (6/27/25)
Hazel Anderson is not feeling well; she is weak in her legs and feeling fatigued. We are praying for better health and strength. (6/27/25)
Doug Reed (Kathy Good's brother) has cancer in his left eye. He has a meeting on 6/19 at Mayo with an oncologist. They plan to begin radiation and chemotherapy before surgery. We are praying for the best possible outcome. (6/16/25)
Kathy Good is still having a lot of back pain and neuropathy pain in her left foot, some of which is because of the stress in her life right now. We are praying for continued pain relief. (6/16/25)
Joey Lee (Gabe & Rita’s youngest son) was diagnosed with Chiari malformation type 1 (CM1). It is a congenital anomaly where the tissue in the lower part of the cerebellum protrudes into the spinal canal through the opening at the base of the skull. This herniation can disrupt the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which cushions the brain and spinal cord and is essential for their health. The cerebellar tissue and the disrupted CSF flow can put pressure on the brainstem and spinal cord, leading to a variety of symptoms including dizziness and sharp headaches. He has an appointment with the neurologist in September. They are seeking God’s blessing in this, that they continue to trust in His faithfulness, and that Joey and Jen find comfort in God. We are praying for a good medical team and timely treatment, healing, and a positive outcome. (6/30/25)
Gabe Lee's mother is doing better overall, and her speech clarity is improving. She is recovering from her stroke and is back at the assisted living facility. She is happier, and Gabe and grandkids video chat with her weekly, which lifts her spirits. Her swallowing is improving; however, aspiration, and then pneumonia, are still concerns. We are praying for her quality of life to continue to improve as well as her memory. Thanks for the prayers. (6/30/25)
Keegan and Liam (Gabe Lanz’s business partner and his son): Liam is Keegan’s son, and he is struggling with mental and emotional health. We are praying for his wisdom, patience, and peace and for his family and all those who are trying to help Liam through this difficult time in his life. (5/29/25)
Terry Nereim had surgery to fix the detached tendon in her right elbow. The surgery went well, the stitches are out, and they made a brace to fit her arm; recovery time will be around three months. We are praying for a full and complete recovery without any complications or setbacks. (6/25/25)
Kelli Lee (friend of Terry & Demarko Nereim) has kidney cancer and had a kidney removed. Kelli had a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in her lung) and was in the hospital a week for that. Unfortunately, the cancer was not contained, and she will have to begin chemo treatments on July 9th. We pray for a full recovery without complications and complete remission of the cancer. (6/25/25)
Virginia Benda is still recovering from her fall and will be doing physical therapy twice a week for the next four weeks to help. It is hard for her to slow down and take care of herself. We are praying for health, strength, patience, and wisdom. (6/26/25)
Jessica Scholz’ friend, Tracy, has cancer in her lungs and other places in her body. We are praying for full remission. (6/26/25)
Bob and Jo Bell (neighbors of Virgina Benda) are dealing with multiple health issues. Jo just moved into a new assisted living environment; she has been having trouble with falling and has had another stroke. We are praying for their health and strength. Their daughter, Lisa, their primary caregiver, and decision maker at this time and needs prayers for wisdom, health, and strength as well. (6/25/25)
John Jackson (co-worker of Tracy Hutchinson) had extensive complex surgeries and found more cancer. He is home recuperating. Was receiving his chemo through a port but has transitioned to manual injections going forward. He is keeping a journal of how his treatments are affecting him. He is not giving up but is facing a long hard road ahead. He is keeping his weight up but is really fatigued most of the time. We are praying for remission and a full recovery. Also, for his mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual strength through this ongoing process. (6/25/25)
Brad Davison (Brenda Depauw’s brother) His CT scan revealed the tumors have shrunk significantly. He will continue to do chemo medication treatment. We are praying for him to be in full remission. (6/25/25)
Cindy Herrin (Lynda Gibsons’s sister-in-law) is dealing with Alzheimer's, and her family is trying to decide how to help her moving forward as she is getting to the point that she cannot stay alone. She is a believer who loves the Lord, and she is holding strong to her faith through all of this. Please pray for wisdom and guidance for her care and needs to be met. (6/29/25)
Ruth and Les Lourens: Ruth's left hand has healed but it is still stiff and weak. She will hold off on having surgery on her right hand until the fall. Jennie is still healing after some minor surgery and has been staying with Les and Ruth. Jenny is on a new medication which is helping her mentally and emotionally. She spends two days a week at Wesley life adult Christian day care, and she is doing better and is more her usual happy self. The family is blessed to have new housing arraignments for Jenny with a good friend, August, a former caregiver who already knows and loves Jenny and has been involved in her life for some time. August is becoming certified to be a Mosaic Home Assisted living care giver. Jenny should be able to move in late July and will become a part of their regular family life. Les is more active and feeling better as well. God is answering prayers. (6/26/25)
Karen Carvine is diagnosed with bone cancer after having successfully beat breast cancer twice. Praying for full remission. Prognosis is favorable. (5/29/25)
Nita Hoffman, we are praying for Nita as she deals with all the aftermath of losing a loved one and as she continues to grieve and adjust to the ups and downs of a new normal without the blessing of Jim’s presence in her life. (6/26/25)
Mike & Christina Minnick (Carli Schaffner's daughter and son-in-law) Mike is home now and continuing his immunotherapy. A home care nurse comes regularly to help with his therapy and draw blood for labs. Mike was diagnosed with bladder cancer in March; the cancer is also in the lymph nodes. Doctors were able to remove most of the mass in the bladder. Mike is tolerating his treatments well, with minimal side effects, which is a huge praise. Their sons are taking their dad to and from treatments, so Christi is pretty much able to return to work fulltime again. We are praying for the whole family to grow closer to God and each other as they go through this journey together. (6/26/25)
Lillian Bennum Graduated from boot camp as a Combat Medic and is now stationed in Houston. She has done well, and we are praying for her success and safety in her new profession. Praying also for her to remain strong mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually as she goes. (6/26/25)
Carol Huntoon (Donna Bennum’s sister) She is on oxygen and continues to smoke. She is doing better health wise. We are praying for her health and strength, and wisdom to make better life choices for her health. (6/26/25)
John Bennum is getting married in September; his future mother-in-law Shelley Biondi had a double mastectomy and is recovering well after her surgery. We are praying for her as she goes through treatment - that she will be cancer-free going forward. (6/26/25)
Kayla Bennum (Donna and Bill Bennum’s daughter) seems to be working through some of her issues and is doing better. She and her husband have separated, and she moved to Sioux City, Nebraska with a friend. Her sister Tanna has offered her a job in her catering business in West Bend as soon as she can get a place and start work. Kayla has let Micah know he will be staying with his grandparents for the time being. We are praying for her to find peace and stability in life and a relationship with her creator. (6/26/25)
Bill and Donna Bennum finishing all their training for foster care certifications. The judge decided not to terminate parental rights, but to grant Bill and Donna guardianship of their grandson Micah instead. Which means his mother Kayla can petition the court to get Micah back in a year if she is doing well. We are praying for God’s direction, will and leading in their lives. (6/26/25)
Janet Wickett fell on the 17th and sprained her right wrist and suffered a brain concussion; fortunately, there was no brain bleeding. She is recovering but had to postpone her scheduled knee replacement surgery on her left leg to replace the top part of her last knee replacement. We are praying for a speedy recovery, so she can reschedule her needed surgery. (6/27/25)
Tara Thompson’s current job will be terminated on October 31st. She has applied within the company and is waiting to hear if she will be able to interview for a position. We are praying she will be able to remain with the company, or that God will open another door that will be an even better job for her. So far, she has no solid job prospects. (6/27/25)
Tim Gibson (Gary Cox’s sister's pastor) has stage four internal melanoma, which is a very aggressive cancer. Currently It is contained in his pelvic area. He has completed his radiation and continues immunotherapy. Doctors plan to remove the tumor in August if all goes well. He’s in Clifton Hill, Missouri. Praying for remission and full health restored. (6/30/25)
Jeff (Kris Wolf’s brother-in-law) had his last infusion treatment June 6th. Then they will do another scan to see how effective the results are. We are praying that God intervenes and heals his body of cancer; if He doesn’t, this is not a cure. We then pray that the time he has left can be quality time with family and friends. (6/29/28)
Jim Brummit (friend of Gary Cox) is back home. He is dealing with two kinds of cancer and has had several surgeries, radiation treatments, and immunotherapy which seems to be going pretty well. He had a recent bout with pneumonitis and discovered he has blood clots in his legs and a very small one in his lung, all of which they are treating with medication. He is eating better and has gained a little weight and is feeling much better recently. We are praying for God’s healing without further complications and full remission of his cancer. (6/26/25)
Ron Pauley (friend of Judy Bumpus) Five years ago in August, when Ron’s battle with cancer began, the doctors said his life expectancy was five years. Last May, they said he only had three or four months. NOW: He is still here and doing much better! His blood work was not as good this last check, but still within an acceptable range. We are still praying for his cancer to shrink and that the medication attacks the cancer cells and not his blood. He grows weary in the battle at times but is not giving up and is praising God for His blessing. (6/27/25)
Diane Sholtz has completed her cataract surgeries and is doing well with both. Praying for her continued improvement in overall health and strength. (6/27/25)
Scott & Paula Seiberling still having a lot of pain in his left shoulder and needs another MRI to see how to proceed. Due to circumstances beyond their control, they will no longer be caring for Lars’ two children after July 3rd. They are dealing with a lot of emotional heart- aches at this time. We are praying Scott’s shoulder to heal completely, for the children to be in a safe and healthy environment, and for Paula and Scot’s emotional, peace, comfort, healing, and strength. (6/27/25)
Dan Snelson has stage four prostate cancer which has metastasized into his bones and lymph nodes. Dan is not going to go through chemo and radiation treatments. He is suffering with a lot of pain, but is pain medicated which helps some. We are praying for his pain relief and wisdom as they move forward. (6/27/25)
Jennie Muggenburg (Sue Torres’ niece) had cancer in her tongue and had to have it removed and a cadaver tongue replacement. The surgery was successful; she is having physical therapy to learn how to control her new tongue. She is in Broadlawns because she is still having trouble eating and only weighs 78 lbs. We are praying for her to learn how to use her new tongue and eating ability, so she can get healthier. (6/26/25)
Michelle McMillan (Cindy Melvin’s sister) has more growth from an offshoot of her original tumor. They are not able to do surgery, because it is too close to her speech and vision centers. She is tolerating the new treatment that is to smother the cancer cells and kill them well. It is done by infusion every two weeks for six months. It is in God’s hands. We are praying that He will show up and show off and remove the cancer from her body. (6/27/25)
Tedd Norman’s kidney functions are continuing to be monitored; he is feeling pretty good and is on the permanent list for a new kidney, just waiting. He has completed classes in Rochester in preparation for replacing his kidney. We are diligently praying that he will receive a new kidney very soon. (6/30/25)
Alan Rockhold (friend of Judi Norman) had extensive heart surgery and has Guillain-Barre (gee-YAH-buh-RAY) syndrome, a condition in which the body's immune system attacks the nerves, causing weakness, tingling and numbness or paralysis in the hands and feet. He was released from one of his vascular doctors for a year. We are continuing to pray for his mobility and a full recovery without further complications. (6/29/25)
Staci Gray (Brent Whitney’s cousin) She is continuing to heal from her last failed digestive surgery. She struggles with hydration which must all come through IVs. She can eat a bit of soft food but nothing that is difficult to digest. She will probably have to live on IV feedings the rest of her life; she just turned 56 years old. She has very limited energy and ability to get out and about, with the high heat working against her as well. She tries to maintain a positive attitude in spite of her situation. We are praying for the family’s comfort and peace and that God help them to find joy in life even in the face of all her ongoing physical trials and adversity. (6/30/25)
Kyler Lenox (friend of Nita Hoffman) is 13 and has a slow-growing tumor. His current medications appear keeping it from growing and have even reduced its size at this point. He is monitored closely. We are praying for good results and healing. The family is grateful for your prayers. (6/26/25)
Jessica Scholz is still in need of a full-time job and housing she can afford on her own. She has had dental work done and is doing better with that. We are praying for her ability to provide and care for herself. (6/30/25)
Mario and Maria Lara, Praising God Maria will begin a new job August 15th as a teacher’s assistant with Finley Elementary School. Mario is still dealing with ringing in his ears at times it is louder than others, and it still at times affects his ability to sleep at night. Mario has 34 people attending the Latino Convention in Memphis, Tennessee on July 15-17. There is still room for more people to go. Between the garage sale and food fundraisers, they achieved their goal of $10,000 to cover the cost of the trip. In 2026 the convention will be held in Marshalltown, IA. Mario is leading a group of 9 people from Rising Sun on a mission trip to Costa Rica July 30-Aug. 11th. They will be holding a VBS there and helping to construct a building. Rising Sun’s VBS mission project this year is to raise $3000 to provide the VBS materials and building supplies. The Hispanic Family Camp is at CICB Aug. 19-31st. Mario is praying for the next generation of leaders to help continue the work and carry the Gospel to future generations. We are praying for the Hispanic population’s hearts and minds to seek Christ’s presence in their lives. We are also praying for Mario and family’s health and strength as they serve the Lord together. (6/27/25)
Vanessa Merrill (Valerie Merrill’s twin sister) has pancreatic cancer. The chemo did not shrink the tumor; it grew again and spread to the liver. She will not be doing any more chemo. She needs to supplement her nutrition through a feeding tube directly into her intestine. She is on regular pain medications to help her deal with neuropathy and other pains. She is choosing to travel and spend time with her family while she is still able (both Valerie and Tiffany joined her for a trip to Maui). We are praying for her quality of life in the time she has left. (6/30/25)
Harrison and Krista Terrill (Chad and Staci Terrill’s children) Baby Hudson is doing as well as could be expected. He is a happy baby, and his joy is a blessing. He can almost roll over; we are praying for God to heal his body, and that, as he continues to grow, he will be able to communicate with his family. God is blessing his family as they learn and grow together with him. (6/29/25)
Jeannine Derrough (neighbor/friend of Vickie Doerr) Her cancer has returned, and her oncologist is doing blood testing and thinks they may need to change her treatment plan. There seems to be more abdomen fluid than her last scan and possibly a place on her liver they need to check further. She has a strong faith, and we are praying for her healing and for her to stay strong mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. (6/26/25)
Evelyn Shivers has been able to get to church most Sundays with her granddaughter and her husband which she loves. She also loves visitors, and you can visit her at any time at her granddaughter Brooke’s home, where she now lives: 5926 160th, Indianola (go out past the Casey’s and Fiss’ in Carlisle). If you’d like to send her a card, still send them to 18298 Elthon St, Carlisle, IA 50047. We continue to pray for her health, strength, and mobility. (6/26/25)
Cara Flavio (Lori Cox’s sister) is still not able to walk without assistance and has limited-to-no use of her left side after her stroke. We are praying for improved mobility and strength and for her husband/caregiver Max’s health and strength as well. Thank you for all your prayers and cards! (Box 61, Concord, IL 62631. (6/26/25)
Josiah Waddle (Gary and Lori’s grandson) is currently in a yearlong rehab program in Newton; he is doing much better physically and has a good attitude. He Received his GED on June 15, which was a major accomplishment for him. He is still facing consequences from poor life choices. God has been with him, and we are praying for the best possible consequences for his future. We are praying for his physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual strength and health and the self-control and wisdom to make good choices and walk with God moving forward. (6/26/25)
Praise
Kelly Revell (friend of Sue Torres) is back to normal after her cancer and surgery. She is back to work, and all is going well at this point. She wishes to thank everyone for the prayers, cards, and encouragement. (6/30/25)
Gabe and Rita Lee will become grandparents again in October; Josh and Lindsey Lee are expecting a baby girl. (6/30/25)
Military
Jacob Baird (son of Mike & Tina Rains) moved to 128 Sweeney Dr, Biloxi, MS 39531. Please pray for his safety and his faith walk. (5/2/25)
Lucas Rains (son of Mike & Tina Rains) was not deployed. Baby Theo is healthy and almost nine months old already. Their new address is 324 Borough Street, Cheyenne, WY 82007. (5/2/25)
Andrew Skiles and his wife Chantal (Mark & Vicki Skiles) Pray for Andrew and Chantal, as Drew serves in the Army in Germany. Pray for a healthy pregnancy for Chantal. They are expecting their baby girl in November. Pray also for Andrew as he manages the soldiers under him, and for wisdom in each situation. Praying also for a Christian community for them to connect with, and for Andrew to lead his family well. (7/7/25)
Shut Ins
Martha Miller: 5230 E Oakwood Dr, Pleasant Hill, IA 50327
Evelyn Downing: Prairie Vista Village. 2785 1st Ave S, #165b Altoona, IA 50009
Dianne Scholtz: Parkridge Nursing and Rehab Center, 5800 NE 12th Ave, Pleasant Hill, IA 50327 (515-664-5606)
Evelyn Shivers: 18298 Elthon St, Carlisle IA 50047
Pat Wolfe: 4006 71st St Urbandale, IA 50322
Birthdays
7/3 - Ira Patterson
7/3 - Steve Rowland
7/4 - Chris Stahowick
7/5 - Desmond Stahowick
7/6 - Collin Dauwen
7/6 - Rita Lee
7/6 - Stacy Terrill
7/7 - Dave Gibson
7/7 - Madeline Whitney
7/8 - Dawn Knutson
7/8 - Joe Humphrey
7/11 - Katie Callan
7/12 - Gary Cox
7/14 - Becca Kramer
7/15 - Josie Howrey
7/15 - Melody Carew
7/16 - Berkley Smith
7/16 - Evan Schaben
7/18 - Cooper Patterson
7/18 - John Duke
7/18 - Lynn Stahowick
7/20 - Kenneth Wickett
7/21 - Elias Blauw
7/22 - Richard Brown
7/22 - Susan Ellis
7/23 - Brantley Anderson
7/23 - Elroi Aamodt
7/24 - Max Miller
7/25 - Valerie Merrill
Anniversaries
7/5 - Andrew & Ashley Foudree
7/7 - Ron & Linda Schall
7/7 - Tony & Danielle Moore
7/14 - Dan & Shanda Burke
7/18 - Brent & Heather Stemsrud
7/22 - Mike & Tricia Miller
7/28 - Greg & Janet Townley
7/30 - Ed & Michelle Wiedmann