Prayer Updates - May 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.*** Lorie (Tara Thompson’s friend) just lost her job on Monday this week. She’s been applying with no luck but has an interview on May 5. (5/1/2026)
Kyra Michalak and baby; her water broke early. Mom and baby will need to be monitored daily in the hospital for the next seven weeks until their baby is born. We are praying for the whole family and for Vincent, Kyra's peace and trust through this time. Praying for a safe and healthy delivery of their first child. Kyra is at Mercy Hospital downtown and welcomes visitors. (4/27/26)
Jason Smith is healing well after surgery. We are specifically praying for his body to be cancer-free going forward with life and that there will be no nerve damage or negative long-term side effects. Also praying for patience as he goes through this process. (4/29/26)
Tom Boh is feeling and doing better after his pacemaker was put in on April 7. Continued prayers for healing and full recovery moving forward. (4/29/26)
Bill and Donna Bennum, Micah, with testing, medication, a stable environment, and attention is doing much better; they plan to homeschool him next year. Bill is feeling the results of an aging spine, and the pain that goes along with it. Donna had a scare with an irregular heartbeat; she is now on medication and is doing much better. There is a lot going on in their lives. We are praying for health, strength, and the wisdom to deal with life one day at a time. (4/29/26)
Chelsea (related to Donna Bennum) is in her 40s; her surgery for brain cancer went well. We are praying for her full recovery and health and her family. (4/29/26)
Carol Huntoon (Donna Bennum’s sister) is healthier and doing pretty well, even with her dementia. We are praying for her mental and physical health and strength. (4/29/26)
Robert (Donna Bennum’s nephew) is still incarcerated. He was baptized Easter Sunday at High Point in DSM, an 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. (4/29/26)
Kayla Bennum (Donna and Bill Bennum’s daughter) has ongoing mental health and poor choices in life issues. We are continuing to pray that she will overcome her destructive life choices and place Christ at the center of her life. (4/29/26)
Jenny Lourens is doing quite well overall. She has good days and not such good days. She is blessed with a happy spirit in life regardless of her circumstances. We are praying for the family’s comfort and peace as they continue to deal with the things in life that we cannot change. (4/29/26)
Angi Ruport’s cancer has returned; her new treatments seem to be helping. We are praying for her body to be cancer free once again. (4/30/26)
Jody Dooley had surgery, and it went well. She is gaining strength and doing well overall. We are praying for a clear pathology report and specifically that she will not have to have chemo. Also praying for full recovery and her body to be cancer- free moving forward. (4/28/26)
Vicki Skiles’ great niece, Alora, was born with multiple heart complications; she is improving but still has a long way to go. 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. (4/29/26)
Joyce Busch (Vicki Skiles’s mother) had a stent put in her heart this week and is doing well. We are praying for speedy recovery without any complications. (4/29/26)
Diana Benda (Tracy Hutchinson’s sister) is healing well after her eye surgery. She has another spot on her eye they are treating with eye drops. If the drops don’t work, they will have to surgically remove it as well. Praying for continued healing without further surgery. (4/29/26)
Robert Stephens (father of Casey St. Arnold, a friend of Whitnie Hutchinson) completely lost his house in a fire, and his motorcycle was stolen. He has temporary shelter and got the bike back. Praying for insurance to do its job and the ability to move forward. (4/29/26)
Michelle Gennarelli (Mike Rains’ sister) has breast cancer and has begun chemo. We are praying for her full remission and healing. Also, for wisdom as she goes through the treatment process. (4/30/26)
Andy (Mike Rains ‘brother-in-law) has prostate cancer, and his kidneys quit working. Just had surgery to put in a kidney stint. We are praying for his remission and healing. (4/30/26)
Tommy Cox (Gary’s younger brother) has been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia involving his frontal cortex which causes rapid onset dementia and physical disabilities. There is no cure for it. He is also recovering from a full knee replacement and is in therapy. We are praying for healing and wisdom in how to deal with his physical issues moving forward. Praying also for his salvation. (4/30/26)
Ronnie Cox (Gary’s older brother) lives in Arkansas and had emergency surgery for a blocked bowel, 3/26/26. He also has fibromyalgia and difficulty breathing because of his COPD. He is home recovering slowly but is very weak. Praying for his healing and recovery without complications. Praying also for his salvation. (4/30/26)
Josiah Waddle (Gary and Lori’s grandson) his hand is healed, and he is in physical therapy. He needs full-time employment. Continuing to pray for physical healing, wise life choices, faithfulness, and a full-time job. (3/27/26)
Gabe Lee’s mother in Malaysia continues to grow weaker and is having further physical complications. We are praying for God’s peace, grace, mercy, love, and the gift of life everlasting will be received by his mom. (4/29/26)
Kim Smith’s cousin, Madison VanEngen; age 32, has a Lymphoblastic Leukemia being treated in isolation for a month at a time at Mayo. She and her husband have 4 kids, ages 10-2. Pray for health and recovery and peace. Pray for the family and a strong support network! (4/30/26)
Evan (Liz Rhodes’ grandson) after a two-year ordeal with cancer, he is in maintenance remission. We are praying lifelong remission for Evan and time of peace, comfort, and happy tranquility to just live and grow as a family with God. Thank you for your continued prayers. (4/30/26)
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. (4/29/26)
Janet Wickett had surgery for a torn rotator cuff, it went well. She had some heart and lung issues right afterwords and is having a hard time gaining her strength back. We are praying for her health and strength without further complications or setbacks. She is to begin her physical therapy next week. (4/29/26)
Julie Kriegel (Dan Smith’s Cousin, Jim DePauw's sister) has breast cancer, and it has spread to her lymph nodes and other areas. We are praying for her healing and full remission. (4/30/26)
Ted (Vickie Brown’s brother) has bone cancer. He receives outpatient treatment at Mayo Clinic every few weeks. 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, so we are praying for her health and strength as well. (4/30/26)
Gaylord Victora, friend of the Coxes and Browns, is dealing with several health issues and is unable to drive; he is feeling overwhelmed. We are praying for answers, solutions for better health and stress relief. He and his wife, Vicki, are planning a move in early May, to be nearer to children. (4/30/26)
Josh & Ashley DeBruin are facing litigation concerning a countersuit from a contractor. We are praying for moral awakening on the contractor’s part, as well as his willingness to do what is right. (4/29/2)
Heather Wagner’s student, Hunter, after a major accident last July, requires 16-hour in-home nursing care. He remains non-verbal, unable to effectively communicate. We are praying for God’s healing for his body. It has recently been decided that he will be the recipient of our Holy Smokes’ offerings this summer. (4/29/26)
Scott Seiberling’s mother’s broken leg healed well, but she still has a hard time getting around and has moved into assisted living. We are praying for her to get motivated to become more mobile, or Jesus will bless her and take her home. (4/29/26)
Myles Patterson (Tanner & Samantha’s youngest) is sick again; we are praying for him heal quickly and to gain weight and to thrive, and become strong, and 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.4/30/26)
Kurt Shivers (Joey’s dad) Kurt is to have dental surgery and an upper scope (EGD) as soon as they can be scheduled. Having a C-PAP and sleeping better has been a big help with his health. Pray for a great improvement in Kurt’s health and overall quality of life. His physical needs continue to be very stressful and difficult for Joey and family as they try to balance personal life, work and caring for dad. Pray for Joey and family as they continue to care for Kurt. (4/29/26)
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. (4/29/26)
Gabe Lanz's coworker’s Keegan’s son, Liam, has been placed in Orchard Place for treatment and protection for the family. We are praying for continued progress for Liam and restored relationship with the family. (4/30/26)
Terry Nereim has chronic dry eyes and cataracts to deal with. We are praying for her eye health and a marked improvement in her eyes. (4/30/26)
Anne Hill (Terry Nereim’s son’s mother-in-law) is recovering after extensive heart bypass surgery. She continues her rehab. We are paying for her full recovery from heart surgery and healthy lungs. (4/30/26)
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. (4/30/26)
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 recovering well and 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. (4/30/26)
Cindy Crew (relative of Terry Nereim) has been struggling for a year with Babesiosis, which is a rare tick-born parasite illness and is on medication for it. We are praying for a full recovery. (4/30/26)
Bryan and Cindy Herrin, Linda Gibson's brother and sister-in-law, both have health issues. Brian had a good report from his neurologist, and his current medication for Parkinsons, along with physical therapy, is helping. Cindy’s Alzheimer’s is rapidly getting much worse, but God’s Holy Spirit still resides within her. She is scheduled for bladder surgery on May 21. 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. (4/29/26)
Tim Gibson (Gary Cox’s sister's pastor) is having major health issues. Asking for prayers for his health and the ability to let go as their pastor because of his physical health and limitations. (4/29/26)
Tammy Cohron’s (Terry Whitney’s cousin) mobility is challenged, but she gets around slowly with the help of a walker. She is still able so far to live on her own with the help of friends. She is struggling with loneliness and isolation. We are praying for her strength and recovery physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. (4/30/26)
Doug Williams (Terry Whitney’s cousin) has active lung cancer again. He is opting to not do any treatments currently; we are praying for wisdom in how to proceed and improved health. (4/29/26)
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. The family is encouraged by the research that is being done for her blood disease. Doctors believe there is a good possibility for development of a medicine that could help her, but it may be sometime before they will know if it is an option. 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. (4/29/26)
Cindy Dooley has been recovering from a burst fracture of her L-5 Vertebra for the past several months. She is definitely getting 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. (4/30/26)
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. (4/30/26)
Brad Davison (Brenda Depauw’s brother) has been dealing with cancer for months, and his last scans revealed the tumors in his lung and stomach have grown. He is being treated with chemotherapy. We are praying for strength and healing. (4/29/26)
Mike & Christina Minnick (Carli Schaffner's daughter and son-in-law) His post- radiation scans showed no cancer in his lymph nodes! He continues immunotherapy treatments every three weeks and is to start chemo May 12, unless he gets accepted into a study at the University of Nebraska. He is to meet with them May 5th. We are continuing to pray for full remission and for the whole family to grow closer to God and each other through this journey. (4/29/26)
Tedd Norman, is still having some stomach issues but doing well, holding his own, and stable for now. Praying for good long-term health. (4/30/26)
Todd Norman is still dealing with pain in his legs and feet. We are praying for good health and strength in 2026. (4/30/26)
Mario & Maria Lara; Praying for volunteers for the Hispanic convention at New Hope Christian Church in Marshalltown coming soon. 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. (4/30/26)
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. (4/30/26)
Jeannine Derrough’s (neighbor/friend of Vickie Doerr) cancer has returned, and she has lost a lot of strength and weight after the chemo treatments. She is now in physical therapy to regain strength. Her faith is strong, and we pray for her healing and for her to stay strong mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. (4/29/26)
PRAISES
Collin and Kathryn Kueter praise, Raelyn Elizabeth arrived, she has two big brothers to protect their new little sister. 4/29/26
Greg and HaleyWhitney praise, Bennett Lee Whitney decided to debut on 4/27, a big boy with a big sister to help “mother” him. 4/29/26
Owen Grimes (Whitnie Hutchinson’s son, Bill & Tracy’s grandson) is doing great after his surgeries. Thanks for the prayers (4/29/26)
Ruth Lourens is finally feeling much better again. Thank you for all the prayers. (4/29/26)
Jane Miller is doing much better, and she praises God for that and thanks everyone for all the prayers. (4/29/26)
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) They had a great visit with family here in Iowa for a few days in April.
Send your requests and updates to the church offices or to Gary Cox by emailing garyc@risingsunchurch.org.Birthdays
5/1 - Kailie Smith
5/3 - Madelyn Foudree
5/4 - Caleb Shivers
5/4 - Lucas Norton
5/6 - Jordan Buell
5/7 - Elijah Howard
5/7 - Hudson Wiedmann
5/8 - Ian Stemsrud
5/8 - Melvin Miller
5/9 - Cate Howard
5/10 - Nita Hoffman
5/11 - Brice Moss
5/11 - Darren Grandon
5/13 - Gemma Machir
5/13 - Michelle Boh
5/13 - Whitnie Hutchinson
5/14 - Elijah Foudree
5/14 - Lexi Ball
5/15 - Jacob Tyree
5/15 - Korbin Knutson
5/15 - Tiffany Quinn
5/18 - Pat Wolfe
5/19 - Genesis Skiles
5/19 - Rowen Squires
5/21 - Andrew Foudree
5/21 - Ashley De Bruin
5/21 - Chad Dooley
5/22 - Amiyah Dooley
5/22 - Charlie Cantwell
5/22 - Lucas Howrey
5/22 - Madison De Vries
5/23 - Kathy Smith
5/24 - Atalie Worcester
5/24 - Briella Worcester
5/24 - Caleb Worcester
5/24 - Karley Shivers
5/24 - Lance Tyree
5/24 - Virginia Benda
5/25 - Jacob Anderson
5/26 - Steve Crocker
5/28 - Bella Templeton
5/29 - Daniel Grandon
5/29 - Greg Townley
5/29 - Mark Skiles
5/30 - Morgan Tatro
5/31 - Brady North
5/31 - Greg Whitney
Anniversaries
5/3 - Steven & Jenni Machir
5/4 - Jordan & Avery Buell
5/6 - Bill & Donna Bennum
5/10 - Ralph & Arlys Curry
5/11 - Kray & Shawna Shivers
5/14 - Skip & Charlie Cantwell
5/14 - Dorne & Dawn Anderson
5/17 - Josh & Ashley De Bruin
5/18 - Gary & Lori Cox
5/21 - Blaine & Kayla Mathes
5/22 - Dave & Sue Bouchard
5/23 - Darson & Sarah Grantham
5/24 - Brian & Ashley Ball
5/26 - Blake & Kirsten Templeton
5/26 - Roger & Carrie Howard
5/29 - Tom & Shannon Worcester
5/30 - Steve & Mandy Rowland