Prayer Updates - March 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.*** Julie Kriegel (Dan Smiths 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 in the hospital and is struggling with RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and low oxygen. We are praying for his lungs to become clear and healthy, and for peace for Zach and Abby. (3/9/26)
Michelle Wiedmann's father just passed. We are praying for the family as they both celebrate and morn his passing. Also seeking prayers for her mother, Elaine as she adjusts to life without him. (3/9/26)
Vickie Brown has been dealing with and infection and is in rehab for her shoulder. We are praying for her health and strength. (3/9/26)
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. We are praying for answers and solutions for better health. (3/1/26)
Ron Kutchen (Fay Thompson's brother-in-law) is blind in one eye and is having cataract surgery April 1st. We are praying that the surgery goes well and that his eyesight will improve. (3/2/26)
Van Engen (cousin of Kim Smith) is 32 and has a Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Her doctors in Sioux Falls have been unsuccessful in her treatments. She is to be immediately transferred 3/1 to Mayo Clinic, which are the specialists in this area. She will need to be there for at least two weeks. She and her husband have 4 children, between the ages of 10 to 2 years. We are praying for her to be healed so they can continue to raise their family together. We are praying for Christ’s peace and presence in their lives as they go through this life journey. We are also praying for a strong faith network of family and friends to walk with them. (2/27/26)
Josh & Ashley DeBruin are facing litigation concerning a countersuit from a contractor. We are praying for justice in the matter on their behalf. (2/23/2)
Angi Ruport’s cancer has returned, so she is meeting with her doctor on 3/6/26 to figure out the next steps. We are praying for remission and healing. (2/27/26)
Heather Wagner’s student, Hunter was involved in a major accident that changed his life last July in Pleasant Hill. He is ready to be released from the hospital, but can't go home due to a nursing shortage. He requires 24/7 care from his injuries, needing to hire a nurse for his residence and one who can be with him as he returns to school. Please pray that Hunter can not only find nurses for his home and for school, but that his healing continues to produce miracles that only God can take credit for. (2/18/26)
Jane Miller is very sick with the type "A, B, and C" strains of flu for the past several weeks. She is not able to eat much and is very weak. She is getting a little better, but needs to isolate to be sure she doesn’t catch something else in her weakened condition. We are praying for strength and a speedy recovery. Also pray Melvin doesn't get it. (2/28/26)
Roger Howard's grandmother, Anita age 97, passed 2/24/26. Her service was held on Monday 3/2/26. The family is celebrating her victory in Christ but will miss her presence with them here. Pray for them as they adjust to life without her. (2/27/26)
Scott Seiberling’s mother broke her left leg 2/10. She had surgery right away. She is healing and in good spirits, continues to pray for complete healing without complications, and for her pain. (2/27/26)
Myles Patterson (Tanner & Samantha’s youngest) is feeling good but not eating well yet. We are praying for Myles to eat better and become strong, healthy and to thrive. 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. 2/28/26)
Gabe Lee's mother had another stroke and is coming to the end of her life; she is currently unresponsive and not able to eat on her own. Gabe is in Malaysia with her now. We are praying for Gabe to have peace of mind, wisdom, and discernment in how to proceed with her physical care. (3/1/26)
Kurt Shivers (Joey’s dad) after his strokes he is out of the hospital again but still having many health issues with his esophagus, heart, and sleep. He is to get a sleep apnea machine, and the regular oxygen flow should help in multiple ways. Pray for a great improvement in Kurt’s health and overall quality of life. Pray for Joey and family as they continue to care for Kurt. (2/25/26)
Celena Thomas’ brother-in-law and nephew were in a very bad car accident. Please pray for the family. (2/8/26)
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. (2/27/26)
Kathryn Kueter is doing much better with her arm pain and mobility, and it was not PTS which is a huge answer to prayer. Her pregnancy is going well, and she is due mid-April with their third child. We are praying for her complete healing and recovery and the safe delivery of their little one. (2/27/26)
Anne Hill (Terry Nereim’s son’s mother-in-law) is recovering after having five bypass surgery 1/27/26. She is in a rehab facility and doing well. She previously had lung cancer and just found another nodule on her lung which will be biopsied on Mach 18. We are paying for her full recovery from heart surgery and that the lung nodule is not malignant. (2/25/26)
Andrew Lwere has had some health issues and is still trying to understand what caused them and how to best deal with them moving forward. We are praying for answers and good health. (3/1/26)
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. (2/27/26)
Jason Smith knows what procedures are necessary for his cancer treatment. He has his doctor and insurance approved to have surgery in Ceder Rapids as soon as they can get it scheduled. We are praying the surgery to be 100% successful without any complications or negative side effects and for his body to be cancer free for the rest of his natural life. (2/27/26)
Gabe Lanz's coworker’s home is under demonic attack, and their son Liam has been placed in Orchard Place for treatment and protection for the family. We are praying for Liam’s spiritual freedom and Christ's presence in their lives and home. (3/1/26)
Terry Nereim has begun using her new eye drops made from her own blood plasma serum for her chronic dry eyes. The drops seem to sooth her eyes, but she still has the redness. Her cataracts are worse, but she will wait longer to see if the drops help. We are praying for a marked improvement in her eyes. (2/28/26)
Kelli Lee (friend of Terry & Demarko Nereim) has kidney cancer and had a kidney removed. Her cancer was not contained; therefore, she is continuing chemo treatments. We pray for full remission and recovery without complications. (3/1/26)
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 journey. Jaelynn is now able to return 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. (3/1/26)
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 another round of medication will help her to continue to improve. We are praying for a full recovery. (3/1/26)
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 his grandson Landon who has neurological issues which are affecting his mind, he is doing better. (2/2726)
Linda Gilbert (Linda Gibson) will have more doctors’ appointments and tests in the future but for now her treatments are finished and she is home recuperating. She is slowly getting better. We are praying for her healing, health, and strength mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. (2/28/26)
Bryan and Cindy Herrin, Linda Gibson's brother and sister-in-law, both have health issues. Brian is now on medication and doing physical therapy for Parkinson’s. 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. 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. (2/27/26)
Anna Pham (Lynda Gibson’s daughter) is dealing with breast cancer and will be meeting with her surgeon next week to schedule the rest of her chemo treatments to be completed by March 23rd. After her Chemo treatments she will have surgery followed by radiation treatments. 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 are keeping an eye on her health. She has limited strength and energy. We are continuing to pray for her healing and recovery and her relationship with God. (3/1/26)
Tim Gibson (Gary Cox’s sister's pastor) has suffered some major setbacks since his cancer brain surgery which have 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. They just brought on a young pastor with a family. Tim is having a hard time letting go. Praying for Tim and the congregation as they navigate a potentially difficult transition in the leadership of the church. (2/28/26)
Jim and Delaina Young are both doing well. Jim is progressing well, gaining strength, and looking forward to getting outside. They are watching services online to avoid falling and sickness. We are continuing to pray for continued good health and complete healing and strength restoration moving forward. (2/28/26)
Alexis (Liz Rhodes’ granddaughter) gave birth 5-6 weeks early, Alexis is out of the hospital, home and doing better. Baby Ruby is doing well, but will have to be in the NICU in Iowa City for a while. She is improving and gaining strength and eating and doing better every day. We are praying for baby Ruby to grow healthy and strong without any health complications and for them to be together at home very soon. (3/1/26)
Ted (Vickie Brown’s brother) Vickie’s younger brother is fighting bone cancer. He is receiving 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. (3/1/26)
Tammy Cohron’s (Terry Whitney’s cousin) mobility has improved with therapy, and she is using a walker to help stabilize her. We are praying for her strength and recovery physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. (2/28/26)
Doug Williams (Terry Whitney’s cousin) has active lung cancer again. We are praying for wisdom in how to proceed and for improved health. (2/27/26)
Adelyn Wheeler (Terry Whitney’s cousin’s daughter), age 13, has a rare genetic blood disease where she is missing a clotting element in her blood. Only 100 other people are known to have had this problem in the past. She is involved in a new experimental treatment which appears to be helping some. We are praying for her mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health and strength through this difficult lifelong journey. (2/27/26)
Denny Davis (Terry Whitney’s cousin) has been in the hospital for two weeks on antibiotics trying to get past pneumonia. His immune system is compromised from all the chemo treatments. They are temporarily stopping his treatments to give his body time to recover some. We are praying for his quality of life and healing. (2/27/26)
Dan Smith is happy to be off all restrictions at this point, still working on reducing his cholesterol. We are praying that his heart is healthy and has fully recovered. The family appreciates all your prayers and support. (3/1/26)
Dan Snelson is dealing with pain, some new health issues and setbacks. It appears his liver is starting to fail, and we are praying for wisdom to know how to proceed with treatment or not and for pain control and relief. Dan and Deb continue to deal with life one day at a time as they stay focused on God through it all. We are praying for their health and strength: mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally and for quality of life in whatever time they have together. (2/27/26)
Jeff Busch (Vicki Skiles’ brother) is in stage 4 congestive heart failure, and his health continues to decline. Angie, his wife, is still healing from a brain concussion and needs our prayers for her complete recovery, health and strength as well. We are praying for Jeff quality of life comes to the end of his life. We are also praying for their son, Jerryd, who has spinabifida resulting in sores which require in-home wound care. (2/27/26)
Cindy Dooley’s recovery from a burst fracture of her L-5 Vertebra. She is finally doing much better and is much more physically active again. Not back to 100% yet but much closer than she was. We continue to pray for full recovery, and to be pain-free again. (2/28/26)
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. (2/27/26)
Brad Davison (Brenda Depauw’s brother) scans have 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. (3/9/26)
Jenny Lourens is doing well overall, although her memory is failing her and she has severe scoliosis of the spine which has been causing her a lot of pain and stealing some of her joy in life. We are praying for pain relief and that God restores her joy for life. Also praying for Les and Ruth after a couple of weeks of head and sinus flu. (2/28/26)
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. (2/27/26)
Carol Huntoon (Donna Bennum’s sister) is over her pneumonia but is now struggling with dementia. We are praying for her mental and physical health and strength. (2/27/26)
Denise’s (Donna Bennum’s stepsister) daughter Chelsea, who is in her 40s, has brain cancer. 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, but it is not hopeful it will change. (2/27/26)
Robert’s (Donna Bennum’s nephew) brother was in a home for the mentally challenged and passed away this week. Robert is to be transferred to Fort Des Moines in April. We are praying for his wisdom in making better life choices and to come to Christ. His mother died a year ago, and he has 14-year-old twins, a son and daughter, who need our prayers as well. (2/27/26)
Kayla Bennum (Donna and Bill Bennum’s daughter) is in and out of mental health facilities as she has nowhere else to go. We are continuing to pray that she will overcome her destructive life choices and place Christ at the center of her life. (2/27/26)
Bill and Donna Bennum, Micah has been tested for autism, and they should get the results on 3/2/26. Teir guardianship for him should be finalized in a couple of weeks. Micah is getting some help at school and is doing better. We pray for Bill and Donna to have the wisdom, strength, and health to continue to be a blessing in Micah’s life, and as they with all of life’s other challenges also. (2/27/26)
Janet Wickett is scheduled for surgery for her torn rotator cuff on March 26th if she passes all her physicals. We are praying that her blood pressure will remain stable and that there will be no adverse effects from the anesthesia. Also praying that she will heal quickly without any complications and for her overall health, strength, and mobility. (2/28/26)
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. (2/27/26)
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. (2/27/26)
Todd Norman is still dealing with pain in his legs and feet. We are praying for good health and strength in 2026. (2/28/26)
Alan Rockhold is wearing leg braces and doing physical therapy at home to strengthen his legs and improve his mobility. We are praying for his health and strength in 2026. (2/27/26)
Mario & Maria Lara; Mario is still having some health issues and is still looking for resolution. We are praying for Mario and the family to be healthy and strong in the new year. Mario will be preaching March 3rd at a church rally in Eagle Pass, TX to promote the Hispanic convention which will be held in Marshalltown on July 14-16. We pray for the family’s health, strength, and spiritual wisdom to lead and serve well together. (3/1/26)
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 healthy pregnancy and safe delivery. God is blessing the family. (3/1/26)
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. (3/1/26)
Josiah Waddle (Gary and Lori’s grandson) was in a car accident and a piece of the windshield severed a tendon in his hand which will require surgery to be repaired. He is still dealing with legal consequences. Continuing to pray for wise life choices, faithfulness and a full-time job. (3/9/26)
Tara Thompson is to have a second interview on a job on 3/2/26 and should hear back within the next fourteen days or less if she will get it. We are praying for job resolution. (2/27/26)
PRAISES
Congratulations to Jon and Becca Kramer for the birth of their new little boy! The family’s newest addition is Tatum Nazereth Kramer, born on Friday, March 6. (3/9/26)
Jordan and Avery Buell, as they celebrate and grieve Jordan’s mom Kathy’s passing, they also received a blessing. Little Aggie Bonny Buell was born February 13th. Mom and baby are doing well. Rejoicing with the family. (2/27/26)
Cedric Hurley (Jim's youngest child) is home and doing well, which is a big praise for a little boy and family. (2/28/26)
Ron Melvin had a torn meniscus surgically repaired 2/20 and a big praise; he is recovering well. Praying for complete healing without setback. (3/1/26)
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)
SHUT-INS
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)
Pat Wolfe: Home at 4006 71st St., Urbandale, IA 50322. You can call her son William first at 1-515-306-7397 to make sure she is up for the visit.
Send your requests and updates to the church offices or to Gary Cox by emailing garyc@risingsunchurch.org.Birthdays
3/1 - Henry Moss
3/1 - Konner Snelson
3/1 - Maxwell Webster
3/1 - Zadok Burke
3/2 - Meredith Tatro
3/3 - Judy Herrin
3/3 - Shannon Worcester
3/4 - Carrie Howard
3/5 - Hesten Authier
3/5 - Sunny Larson
3/6 - Ashley Shivers
3/7 - John Ellis
3/8 - Isabella Foudree
3/9 - Arlys Curry
3/9 - Levi Smith
3/10 - Kylie Underwood
3/11 - Cyrus Whitney
3/11 - Nick Gilchrist
3/13 - Kimberly Lwere
3/14 - Ben Wiedmann
3/14 - Benjamin De Bruin
3/17 - Jim Young
3/18 - Lynda Gibson
3/19 - Nathan Shivers
3/20 - Elijah Dickey
3/21 - Alice Torres
3/22 - Ashley Foudree
3/23 - Beth Jordan
3/23 - Brady Larson
3/24 - Joel Howard
3/24 - Oliver Squires
3/25 - LaRae Quick
3/26 - Kim Crocker
3/27 - Kate Stemsrud
3/27 - Russ Whitney
3/29 - Hazel Anderson
3/29 - Karey Kyer
3/29 - Solomon Worcester
3/31 - Gary McBee
3/31 - Shiloh Blauw
3/31 - Tyler Snelson
Anniversaries
3/3 - Joe & Carol Patterson
3/4 - John & Amber Egli
3/6 - larry & Pam Juhl
3/7 - Brent & Nancy Curry
3/8 - Ron & Bev Shivers
3/10 - Larry & Heather Wagner
3/11 - Collin & Noel Dauwen
3/18 - Travis & Bobbi Schaben