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.***Staci Gray (Terry Whitney’s cousin) has a long healing process ahead of her with open areas on surgery incision that are not healing. She is home bound. She has had a lot of pain which her doctors are helping her manage. The doctor has told her healing will take months and possibly a year. She is discouraged but knows she has to be patient and diligent in her care. We are praying for her pain control, healing and encouragement through this difficult and challenging time. (10/27/25)
Hayden Mavis (Gabe & Rita Lee’s new granddaughter!) was born on Oct 11 at 1:14pm, weighing 7lbs and 1oz, 18.75in long. She is a little jaundice but doing well. Josh, Lindsey Hayden are all home together. Praise the Lord! (10/27/25)
Joey Lee (Gabe & Rita’s youngest son): surgery went well, and he is home and healing after his surgery. He is still experiencing pain, but his headaches have diminished significantly. He is having a cerebral spinal fluid leak that needs to be taken care of. He will have 6 to 12 weeks of restricted healing and recovery in getting “back to normal.” He is experiencing physical weakness which is to be expected. We are praying for his complete and speedy recovery without any long-term side effects. (10/27/25)
Richard Baird (Tina Rains father) has recently moved here to live. We are praying for his mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health and needs. (10/27/25)
Amaya Fuller (Vickie Brown’s granddaughter) recently experienced a second miscarriage in her life. We are praying for her mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health and needs. (10/27/25)
Kayla Bennum (Donna and Bill Bennum’s daughter) gaining custody of her son Micah is no longer an option for Kayla. Micah is staying with his grandparents at present. We are continuing to pray that she will overcome her destructive choices in life and place Christ at the center of her life. Also be praying for Micah as he deals with his life circumstances that are beyond his control. (10/27/25)
Tammy Cohron (Terry Whitney’s cousin) her leg gave out do to a sciatic nerve issue. Tammy is home doing Physical and Occupational therapy and is getting stronger and more mobile again. Please pray for her strength and recovery. (10/27/25)
Doug Williams (Terry Whitney’s cousin) has another active spot of cancer on his lung. He has had two other problems with lung cancer in the past. They are currently determining whether to chemo and/or radiation. We are praying for wisdom in how to proceed and good results. (10/27/25)
Adelyn Wheeler (Terry Whitney’s cousin’s daughter) age 13, just found out she 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 facing many trips to Iowa City for IV treatment. She will have to deal with these issues the rest of her natural life. We are praying for her mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health and strength through this difficult journey. (10/27/25)
Denny Davis (Terry Whitney’s cousin) is in treatment for lung cancer. He is also dealing with pneumonia and partial collapsed lung. He is currently able to be at home. We are praying for his full recovery and health. (10/27/25)
Dan Smith went into the hospital Tuesday morning with chest pain. He is scheduled to have double bypass heart surgery at 11:55AM Thursday morning. We are praying for successful surgery and a speedy and complete recovery. Also pray for peace for the family through this time. (10/22/25)
Cedric Hurley (Jim's youngest son) is only 4 months old and is having a second of three surgeries he is facing, today. Today's surgery is to remove a tumor from his spine. We are praying that all his surgeries will be successful and that he will heal completely without any side effects or complications. Also praying for the family's peace of mind as they go through this together. (10/22/25)
Anna Pham (Lynda Gibson’s daughter) has breast cancer, and it is in her lymph nodes as well. She is meeting with her surgeon and oncologist this week for treatments recommendations. We are praying for wisdom on behalf of the doctors as they treat her and for her complete healing and that God will give her comfort and peace as she goes through the treatment and healing process. (10/15/25)
Melvin Miller's carotid artery surgery was successful and he is healing and recovering well. We are praying for complete healing without any complications. (10/15/25)
Danielle Moore shattered the radial head on her right elbow, which is her dominate arm. She is to have replacement surgery on 10/14. We are praying for a successful surgery and a quick recovery; also for Tony as he fills the gap while she is out of commission. (10/13/25)
Earl and Lillie Baley's son, Terry, passed away, so we are praying for the family as they go through the grieving process. They are having a celebration of life for him on Saturday, October 25th at the Polk City Hall (next to the fire station) from 11-3pm that is open to everyone who would like to attend. (10/10/25)
Sandy Rossow (Bill Hutchinson’s mom) went to be with the Lord just last Friday. Her visitation and funeral will be held at Hamilton’s Funeral Home (Hamilton's near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave, Des Moines, Iowa). The visitation is tonight, Monday 10/6 from 5:00-7:00pm and the funeral service will be tomorrow morning, Tuesday 10/7 at 10:00am if you’d like to share your condolences to the family. Following her burial, we will hold a luncheon here at Rising Sun. Please keep them all in your prayers. (10/6/25)
Jo Bell (neighbor of Virgina Benda) passed away yesterday. Please be praying for Bob, as he has been dealing with multiple age-related health issues. We are praying for their health and strength. Their daughter Lisa needs prayers for wisdom, health, and strength as well. (10/6/25)
Rhonda Pool (Beth Jordan) is the wife of the pastor of Lynnville Heart of Worship. She has a cancerous brain tumor. We are praying for her healing. (10/2/25)
Jaelynn Connett (Terry Nereim) is ten years old and has viral meningitis and brain stem encephalitis. She also had seizures and a stroke. They have removed the drain tube from her brain she is still having some discomfort. Her MRI to check her blood vessels in her brain indicated everything looked perfect. She has been moved to Child Services for full physical therapy Rehab. She is still nonverbal which makes it difficult to communicate her needs. We are praying God will continue to heal her body and restore her speech and health. (10/2/25)
Don Coe Sr (Charli Cantwell’s Father) is in the hospital in Centerville in the final stages of dementia. Please pray for him and for the family. (10/1/26)
Ben Williams (Dave Bouchard) was struck by a vehicle and is in the hospital with brain trauma. Praying for his survival and the family. (10/1/25).
Keith Shivers passed away last Friday. Please keep Sharon and the family in your prayers as they grieve. His visitation will be held at Rising Sun this Thursday, 10/2 from 5-7:30pm and his funeral service will be on Friday morning, 10/3 at 10:30am at the church as well. (9/29/25)
Our sympathy goes to Susan Ellis in the loss of her uncle. He passed last Thursday. (9/24/25)
Esther (Ted and Gail Toulouse's daughter) passed away after a short stay Taylor House on Douglas. Please keep the family in prayer. (10/14/25)
Jace (previous co-worker of Steve Crocker) is a young married man in his thirties who lives in Cedar Falls; he has a small tumor on his hip close to his spine and a blood clot in an aorta in his stomach area and a second restricted aorta. He will be going to Iowa City for further testing this week. We are praying for good results in dealing with his health issues and healing for his body. (9/23/25)
Larry Slaughter went to the ER on Saturday evening and was diagnosed with shingles. He has been given medications to help him. (9/21/25)
Jane Smith is beginning to feel and move better. On her last doctor’s visit they discovered that her pelvis was cracked in three places. She is getting iron injections to help her heal and doing physical therapy, everything she can do to get better. Still praying for pain relief, and quick healing. (10/1/25)
Rita Lee is recovering well after her knee replacement. Her walking is improving every day, and she is healing well. Pray for complete healing without any setbacks and full mobility in the knee. (9/19/25)
Stuart Merrill is doing well after his hip replacement. His follow-up X-ray showed everything is as it should be. We are praying for his full healing and mobility without pain. (10/2/25)
Dan Snelson got an encouraging report from the doctor. While one of his numbers is not going in the right direction, everything else is stable, and the cancer is not spreading throughout the rest of his body. He’s not going to do chemo or radiation at this time. We are still praying for healing. (9/19/25)
Jim Young has had a setback with his left hip and leg, so he can’t put any weight on it for another six weeks, and he is still confined to a wheelchair. His right hip is healing well. We’re praying for complete healing without further complication and that he will be able to be mobile without pain after his recovery. He is doing everything he can to get better. (10/1/25)
Cliff Wolf's brother recently died. Please keep Cliff and the family in your prayers. (9/16/25)
Jason Hampton (Angi Ruport's son) has a court hearing in October; he is facing legal challenges and possible prison time. He needs prayer that he will be granted mercy and grace in his situation. He also needs prayer to make wise life choices and to mature and grow in his faith and walk with God. Praying also for his family as they go through this process with him. (9/29/25)
Gabe Lanz’s business partner, Keegan and son Liam: Liam currently is struggling with a lot of emotional life challenges. Pray for Liam’s mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health and wellbeing, and his parents’ wisdom, health and strength as they go through this season in their lives together. We are also praying for the family to draw close to God. (9/29/25)
Liz Rhodes is taking a small group of five people to Israel and Poland October 6 - 22. They will be spending time with a ministry in Galilee and traveling throughout Israel to share encouragement and the gospel as the Holy Spirit leads. They’ll be taking an offering to support a Christian pro-life organization in Jerusalem, and will be visiting Houses of Prayer in Nazareth, Jerusalem, and near Auschwitz, Poland. Your prayers are appreciated for their travel and no difficulties getting in and out of Israel, for many God Appointments to love and encourage the people of Israel, both Jew and Arab. (9/8/25)
Travis Brannen (Fay Thompson) had a brain tumor and surgery in his teens which caused many health and mobility issues. He also has seizures; he has moved into a rehab center here in Des Moines after the death of his mother who was his primary caregiver. He is doing what he can to improve his health and life situation. (10/2/25)
Tammy Cohron (Terry Whitney) is back home using a walker to get around a little bit and is slowly getting started with PT and OT. We are praying for pain relief and improved mobility. (9/30/25)
Kathy Good’s brother Doug received a good report from his oncologist. His tumor is gone. He will finish two more chemotherapy rounds but is praising God for answered prayer. (9/30/25)
Kathy Good will continue to have good and bad days with her neuropathy, back and neck pain. Her neck pain is currently much better. Kathy will be having foot surgery 10/7. We are praying for good health, pain relief and successful surgery. (9/30/25)
Kurt Shivers (Joey’s Dad) is still staying with Joey and his family in Ankeny, and they are working through finances. He is still weak; his cognitive recovery was better over the first couple of weeks after the stroke, but may have plateaued, which means he will likely need long-term supervision. He will be seeing a neurologist to help determine how to proceed. Please pray for Joey and Kurt as they work through his life situation. (10/1/25)
Karie Gilchrist's father had his shoulder surgery on August 15 after a long wait (he was injured in March). The surgery went well, and he is recovering at home. Praying for his full recovery. (9/30/25)
Ron Pauley has been dealing with advanced prostate cancer for five years, and, despite initially being given a five-year life expectancy, is still with us. Ron continues to have multiple doctor visits, tests and checkups. His current medications seem to be preventing new growth in his cancer with minimal side effects. He goes back to Houston (MD Anderson Cancer Center) in November. We are praying his cancer will remain under control and ultimately that his body will be cured of cancer. God continues to give him wisdom in choices of caregivers, medications and treatments. His greatest desire is that through this journey his faith and actions will show Christ in his life to he meets along the way. (9/30/25)
Bill Hutchinson: with the medications, Bill’s heart is doing fine. However, both knees need replaced, and he is having issues with his feet. He will be having some tests on 10/3 to see if they can come up with a plan. We’re praying for wisdom in making health decisions. (9/30/25)
Todd Norman still has pain and still struggles with his legs and feet. He has therapy twice a week, but he can drive again, which is really good. He is improving, and we are praying for his full recovery and to be pain free going forward. (9/30/25)
Jeff Busch (Vicki Skiles’ brother) is in stage 4 congestive heart failure. He is holding his own as palliative care helps. The doctors are only giving him a few months to live. Please pray for him and his family. (9/30/25)
Cindy Dooley had a fall ten weeks ago and had a burst fracture of her L-5 Vertebra. She is getting around with difficulty and healing slowly, still not able to do much. She will begin physical therapy this week. Pray for her to heal without any surgery, complications, or setbacks. (9/30/25)
Kathy Buell (Jordan Buell’s mother) is back home again. She is having radiation on her back and chest area. She started the chemo pill on 9/2. She has in-home Occupational therapy and physical therapy and home health care. She is doing better, and her numbers continue to improve. She doesn’t have much appetite and is losing weight so they are working on figuring that out. We are praying for full remission. The family is struggling with the diagnosis and working through the emotional trauma of illness together. Jordan’s dad just had neck surgery, and we are praying for his healing without complication or setback as well. We are also praying for their mental, physical, emotional and spiritual strength through this process. (9/30/25)
Dave and Lynda Gibson: We are praying all goes smoothly as they finish their new home and sell their home in the country before winter hits. They hope to sell their current home before moving. (9/30/25)
Karen Boeding (Linda Gibson is ministering to her) has cancer. Her latest Pet Scan showed that she is stable, and she has been feeling pretty good. She doesn't have much energy, but has learned to rest. Definitely answered prayers overall. We are praying for her healing. (10/15/25)
Hazel Anderson is dealing with age-related health issues; she is to get some test results back this week. We are praying for her physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health and stamina and wellbeing. (10/1/25)
Terry Nereim has been upgraded to “activity as tolerated” in the use of her arm and elbow after her surgery. We are praying for full recovery and the wisdom to not do more than she should until she is completely healed. (10/3/25)
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 for a week for that. Unfortunately, the cancer was not contained; she is continuing chemo treatments. We pray for a full recovery without complications and complete remission of the cancer. (9/30/25)
John Jackson (co-worker of Tracy Hutchinson) is halfway through his cancer treatments; his scans showing stability which is a win. He is tired but fighting 100%. (9/30/25)
Brad Davison (Brenda Depauw’s brother) The good news is his cancer scan shows it hasn’t grown. He is still recovering from his shoulder surgery. He is on chemo indefinitely, but not as frequently as he was. We are praying for his health and strength and energy as he continues to deal with his health issues. (9/23/25)
Cindy Herrin (Lynda Gibsons’s sister-in-law) is dealing with a very aggressive form of Alzheimer’s; she is aware of what is happening to her and dealing with it as best she can. She loves the Lord and trusts He will walk with her each step of the way. She is blessed to live with her mother-in-law, Judy Herrin, who is a loving, nurturing caregiver. Please pray for her and the family as they go through this journey in her life together (9/30/25)
Ruth and Les Lourens: Jenny is doing great in her new home and enjoying life. She has received stronger lenses for her glasses and can see to read again. God is blessing. (9/30/25)
Mike & Christina Minnick (Carli Schaffner's daughter and son-in-law) Mike will have his 9th chemo/immunotherapy treatments 10/8 and another cat scan on 14th. He has had fewer side effects as they continued the treatments. We are praying for good test results moving forward and for the whole family to grow closer to God and each other as they go through this journey together. (10/1/25)
Carol Huntoon (Donna Bennum’s sister) is doing better but still having trouble with her hips. We are praying for her health and strength, and wisdom to make better life choices for her health. (10/1/25)
John Bennum got married on September 13th; his mother-in-law, Shelley Biondi, had a double mastectomy and is recovering well; she will be having a second reconstructive surgery in December. We are praying for her as she goes through treatment that she will be cancer-free going forward. (10/1/25)
Kayla Bennum (Donna and Bill Bennum’s daughter) is Micah’s mom and struggles to keep it together so that she can be his primary caregiver. Micah is staying with his grandparents for the time being. We are praying for her to be financially independent and responsible and to find peace and stability in life and a relationship with her creator. (10/1/25)
Bill and Donna Bennum: Bill has not been feeling well for a while and hasn’t received any answers as to why. Donna is dealing with some blood pressure issues and is having a CT on 10/15 to see if she has kidney stones. They are both doing a little better but still not feeling good. Bill and Donna are Micah’s grandparents and guardians and are seeking assistance for some of his emotional/physical needs as they care for him that should start this month. We are praying for their health, strength, and wisdom as they work together to serve God and continue to help care for their family and others. (10/14/25)
Janet Wickett is still dealing with health issues, and her knee surgery has had to be postponed again. We are praying her health will permit her to have the surgery very soon. (10/20/25)
Tara Thompson has applied for a 9-month short ter project with Nationwide Life team and is still looking for full-time employment. We are praying for her employment. (10/22/25)
Tim Gibson (Gary Cox’s sister's pastor) had surgery on 9/2 to remove the malignant tumors and lymph nodes from his body. He will continue to have infusion treatment every three weeks for a year. We are praying for him to be cancer free and healthy moving forward. He’s in Clifton Hill, Missouri. Praying for remission and full health restored. (9/3/25)
Jeff (Kris Wolf’s brother-in-law) latest MRI 9/2 shows he is stable, and he will not have another one for three to four months. He continues to take a monthly chemo shot. One liver tumor has shrunk, but no change on another but nothing is showing up in his lungs or stomach. God is good. We are praying that God intervenes and heals his body. We then pray that the time he has left can be quality time with family and friends. (10/1/25)
Jim Brummit (friend of Gary Cox) is still in treatment for his cancer and doing physical therapy to gain strength. He is still unable to walk but can stand some. We are praying for God’s healing without further complication. (9/30/25)
Scott Sieberling is feeling better than he has for months; he is healing well and continues to improve his strength and mobility through his physical therapy. We are still praying for complete healing, mobility and strength without any complications or setbacks. We are praying he will reach a settlement with the insurance company very soon. (9/30/25)
Jennie Muggenburg (Sue Torres’ niece) had cancer in her tongue and had to have it removed and replaced. The surgery was successful, and, with therapy, she is speaking better and learning to control her new tongue. She continues to make poor life choices, however. Praying for her continued recovery and wisdom in making better life choices. (9/30/25)
Michelle McMillan (Cindy Melvin’s sister) her health is deteriorating rapidly and we are praying that she will not have to continue to suffer much longer. We are also praying for her family, Kevin and Kenzie, to be able to ask for and receive help in caring for her in the time she has left. (10/1/25)
Tedd Norman’s kidney functions are continuing to be monitored; he just got back from several appointments at Mayo, and things are as good as they can be at this time. He is feeling pretty good and is on the permanent list for a new kidney, just waiting for a kidney. We are diligently praying that he will receive a new kidney very soon. (10/1/25)
Alan Rockhold (friend of Judi Norman) is still struggling with his legs and feet because he 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 is getting braces for his legs. We are continuing to pray for his mobility and a full recovery without further complications. (10/1/25)
Jessica Scholz has settled into her new apartment. She is still in need of a full time Job. (10/1/25)
Mario and Maria Lara: Maria is enjoying her new job working with the children at Finley Elementary School; they are thankful for having insurance again. We are praying for opportunities for her to be a witness of God’s love as she serves there. Mario is having some health issues and physical pain but no time to slow down. 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. The meeting in Dallas went well and and will be held in Marshalltown IA in 2026. While in Dallas he was able to cross the border into Mexico and promote the Bible course with local leaders. We are also praying for Mario and family’s health and strength as they serve the Lord together. (10/14/25)
Harrison and Krista Terrill (Chad and Staci’s children) Baby Hudson is doing as well as could be expected; he is over a year old already. He is a happy baby, and his joy is a blessing. He is behind in his physical development because of his physical disabilities; 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. (9/30/25)
Jeannine Derrough (neighbor/friend of Vickie Doerr) Her cancer has returned. She has a strong faith, and we pray for her healing and for her to stay strong mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. (10/1/25)
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. We are praying that God will work a miracle in her life. We had a good visit with her and her husband, and both seem to be in good sprits. (10/14/25)
Josiah Waddle (Gary and Lori’s grandson) is doing better at this point, if he continues to make good life choices, his juvenile record will be expunged after a year. He is getting help dealing with his impulse control and God has blessed him in so many ways in the consequences that he will have to deal with. We are praying for his physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual strength and health and the self-control and wisdom to make good choices and continue to walk with God moving forward. (10/1/25)
Military
Jacob Baird (son of Mike & Tina Rains) moved to 128 Sweeney Dr, Biloxi, MS 39531. Pray for Jake, he is a project manager for air show in Biloxi. (7/31/25)
Lucas Rains (son of Mike & Tina Rains) was not deployed. Baby Theo just celebrated his one-year birthday. 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. (7/31/25)
Shut Ins
Evelyn Downing: Prairie Vista Village. 2785 1st Ave S, #165b Altoona, IA 50009
Martha Miller: 5230 E Oakwood Dr, Pleasant Hill, IA 50327
Dianne Scholtz: Parkridge Nursing and Rehab Center, 5800 NE 12th Ave, Pleasant Hill, IA 50327 (515-664-5606)
Pat Wolfe: 4006 71st St Urbandale, IA 50322
Jim Young: 12697 S 60th Ave W, Mitchellville, IA 50169
Birthdays
10/1 - Abby Dickey
10/3 - Linda Schall
10/3 - Liz Rhodes
10/4 - Dawn Anderson
10/4 - Sarah Gonzalez
10/6 - Kelly Dooley
10/6 - Louise Bennett
10/7 - Bennett Larson
10/7 - Keith Shivers
10/7 - Koby Shivers
10/7 - Sharon Shivers
10/8 - Fern Buell
10/9 - Mitch Huffman
10/10 - Katelyn Snelson
10/12 - Micah Burke
10/13 - Carol Patterson
10/13 - Cassie Moss
10/14 - Diane Scholz
10/15 - Heather Webster
10/15 - Mable Lanz
10/15 - Ryan Clement
10/16 - Laramie Blauw
10/17 - Kennah Lwere
10/18 - Sue Torres
10/19 - Dreyer Grantham
10/20 - Dox Grantham
10/20 - Harrison Kueter
10/20 - Ralph Curry
10/22 - Dane Lanz
10/22 - Jesiah Lwere
10/22 - Judah Blauw
10/23 – Emiliano Torres
10/24 - Emma Birch
10/25 - Brent Stemsrud
10/25 - Kyra Michalek
10/27 - Elizabeth Van Klompenburg
10/27 - Mathias Webster
10/28 - Don Rogers
10/29 - Chad Quick
10/29 - Debra Snelson
10/29 - Vaughn Smith
10/31 - Jedediah Blauw
10/31 - Justin Oswald
10/31 - Shawna ShiversAnniversaries
10/7 - Zach & Abigail Squires
10/10 - Bill & Tracy Hutchinson
10/16 - Kent & Karey Kyer
10/16 - Russ & Laura Whitney
10/18 - John & Vickie Doerr
10/21 - Dan & Kathy Smith
10/21 - Koby & Mandee Shivers
10/22 - John & Geraldina Duke
10/24 - Mark & Elizabeth Van Klompenburg