Nursing Home Music Ministry











Monday March 21 -
Played at Nursing Home in Collins, Ms.
Tuesday March 22 -
Ministered at assisted-living in Monroeville, Al. Then attended a
Revival at the Nazarene church.
Wednesday March 23 -
Met a couple on the hwy, doing a walk-a thon. They invited me back
to their place. So, I went ahead of them, played at the 2 N.H.'s in
town (Brewton, Al.). Then at their place, they treated me to dinner,
offered a shower, the use of their washer & dryer, gave me a $25 gift
certificate AND $40 Cash. What a Blessing!
Thursday March 24 -
Played at the N.H. in Enterprise, Al., largest in the state (257 beds).
Took the wrong road out of town and ended up in Florida. Ran
across a N.H. outside of Graceville, Fl., just before supper. Got to
sing for about 45 min.
Friday March 25 -
Sang in Donalsonville, Ga.
Saturday March 26
Sunday March 27 -
Outside of Bainbridge, Ga., saw a church "The Lords House", having
a bbq fundraiser. Stopped and was invited to stay overnight and
worship the next day. So spent Saturday fellowshipping and playing
guitar. Sunday I got to sing "Ten Thousand Angels" in the morning.
And in the Evening I got to sing "Above All" with Pastors wife playing
Keyboard.
Greetings,
It has now been 3 weeks since I left Austin, Tx. I've had the privilege of sharing the
Gospel in song at 17 Nursing Homes & 2 Churches. Praise God for opening these
doors. Is'nt God Good !?
Monday March 28 -
Played at the "Hospitality Care Center", a public (i.e. poor) Nursing Home in
Thomasville, Georgia. I was told, that the day before, which was Easter, there were
no services or anything else going on there. I had the honor of singing to a large,
and very receptive crowd.
Tuesday March 29 -
In Quitman, Ga., I ran into Jack Harrel. Who had a prison ministry. He was
renovating a large downtown building, and turned on the power to one of the
apartments, so I could take a shower. The locale N.H. was booked, so I went down
the road to Homerville,Ga. and played there. An older facility, the folks seemed
very appreciative.
Wednesday March 30 -
Played at "The Dawson Manor" in Dawson, Ga. (nice crowd) stopped at a Baptist
church for evening services. Then on into town,(Cuthbert, Ga.) and camped in
Andrew College's parking lot.
Thursday March 31 -
Got to minister at "Southern Springs Health Care" N.H., in Union Springs, Alabama.
First, Child I've seen in a N.H. She appeared to be about 8 years old. She had a
pretty smile and got REAL excited at the beginning of almost every song. Adorable!
Friday April 1 -
Played at the "Bibb County Nursing Home" in Centreville, Al. A new facility,
connected to a Hospital.
Saturday April 2 -
About 2:30 pm, I stopped at a resturant in Reform, Al., for a 99 cent taco. They
pointed out a N.H. across the street, behind a Bank. So I went over and ministered
at the "Salem Nursing and Rehab Center". The residents stood at the window and
waved as I drove away. Heartwarming!
Sunday April 3 -
Morning Worship at an all Black congregation in Pleasant Hill,
Mississippi."Powerful Lesson"! Drove down the road a piece to Mathiston, Ms.
Played at the "Vickers Personal Care Home".Then attended a Revival going on at
the Baptist church in town. Enjoyed a finger food fellowship they were having.
Pastor offered a place to park for the night, And a shower in the morning.
Wonderful!
That's it for now. I Hope and Pray all is well. May God Bless You.
Yours In Christ,
Larry
Greetings,
I Hope & Pray All Is Well With You & Yours.
It has been 1 month since I started this years Mission. I've now had the privilege of
sharing the Gospel in Song at 24 Nursing Homes and 4 Churches. I Praise the
Lord, for allowing me to do this.
Monday April 4 -
Ministered at the "Kilmichael Hospital Senior Care Unit" in Kilmichael,MS.
Tuesday April 5 -
Sang at the "Winona Manor N.H." in Winona,MS. As I was shaking hands &
thanking residents for listening, the activity director handed me an envelope. Said
the Director had taken up a small collection from the staff, they wanted me to have.
Well, I hugged her twice. It was much needed, and it wasn't small to me. It was 50
dollars! A True Blessing.
Wednesday April 6 -
Played at the "Golden Age N.H." in Greenwood,MS. A very large, open-air,
arboretum type area. They set up a sound system for me. It worked ok, but I
missed the intimacy of walking around and being close enough to the residents to
interact. Attended mid week services at a church next to a County Park. Just
across the Mississippi, into Arkansas. Got to help out with a couple of songs.
Thursday April 7 -
Had a great reception at the "Lake Village Health Care Center" in Lake Village,AR.
One lady told me it brought her back to her childhood.
Friday April 8 -
Stopped in Dermont,AR. at the "Dermont City N.H." Director of Activities said she
felt the Spirit of the Lord was present. Said one lady who hadn't opened her mouth
in ages, was singing "Jesus Loves Me" with us. Praise God! Said she couldn't wait
to tell the daughter about it.
Saturday April 9 -
Got to play during the Pop-corn Social, at the "Monticello Health Care Center" in
Monticello,AR.
Sunday April 10 -
Attended small country church outside of town. Did a special "Softly & Tenderly"
Then found the "Monticello Leisure Lodge N.H." There was a semi-retired couple
from 30 miles away, who came every sunday to hold worship services. They had a
short 15 minute service, then invited me to play. Residents kept asking me to do
another song. Ended up playing 35 or 40 minutes. The same couple asked me out
to a Western Sizzler for Buffet lunch. Treated me to lunch, then gave me a parting
gift of 20 dollars. What a Blessing! Back to country church for evening services.
Sang 2 songs, "I'll Fly Away" and "Jesus Loves Me".
Well its about time to get back on the road and find another Home to
sing in.
May God Bless You And Keep You Safe.
Yours In Christ,
Larry
To My Brother's And Sister's In Christ, Greetings.
I Hope & Pray All Is Well With You & Yours.
It has been 5 weeks since I started this years mission. I've now had the privilege of
Sharing The Gospel in song with 28 Nursing Homes and 4 churches. Thank You
Lord!
Monday April 11-
Came a Stormin, Big-time. Stopped in Warren,AR. & ministered at the "Wagnon
Place on Honeysuckle Hill" N.H. A new facility with a beautiful Chapel area. The
Director made a contribution which helped immensely.
Tuesday April 12-
In Magnolia,AR, I played at the "Magnolia Healthcare Center" A large enthusiastic
audience. After singing for an hour, I was asked to go back to the Alzheimer's unit.
Played another 1/2 hour there.
Wednesday April 13-
Went to the "Columbia Healthcare" N.H. in Taylor,AR. A small crowd, but one of the
gentlemen had been visiting friends at the Magnolia Home, the day before. Kind of
a neat coincidence.
Thursday April 14-
Sang at the "Franklin Nursing Home" in Franklin,TX. A very warm group. Pulled into
Austin,TX. late evening.
Friday April 15-
Spent the day visiting with Family and Friends. Attended a Singles party at the
church. A well organized & fun time.
Saturday April 16-
Spent the day with a Deaconess of the Church. A very Special & Productive Lady in
the Body of Christ. We visited a sick brother, had a nice nature walk in a park, ate
some good mexican food and played a card game with another brother.
Sunday April 17-
Was Honored to put on a Robe and sing in the Choir at Jubilee. Got to say hi to
many friends I hadn't seen in a while. I'm thankful the Lord put it in my heart to
come spend the weekend in Austin. It has been an uplifting and rejuvenating time
of fellowship.
Now, its time to get back to work. I'm scheduled to play in a Home
here today, then(Lord Willin).
Back on the road.
As always, May God Bless You & Yours.
Yours In Christ,
Larry
To My Brothers & Sisters In Christ, Greetings.
I Hope & Pray All Is Well With You & Yours.
It has been 6 weeks since beginning this years ministry. I have now had the
privilege of sharing the Gospel in song with 33 nursing homes and 4 churches.
Monday April 18-
I sang at "The Park at Becket Meadows" in Austin,Tx. A wonderful group I've had
the Honor of singing to before.
While in Travis County, I took the opportunity to renew the license on the van, and
do an oil change.
Tuesday April 19-
Drove to Yoakum,Tx. and played at the "Stevens Healthcare" N.H. Visited with my
dad (Howard), who lives there.
Wednesday April 20-
Ministered at the "Care Inn of Edna Living Center" in Edna,Tx. About 13 residents,
lovely crowd. Then went on to Bay City, where I attended mid-week services.
Thursday April 21-
Visited with my maternal grandmother (Christine), and aunt Sandra. Then sang at
"The Legacy Matagorda House Healthcare Center" there in Bay City,Tx. The
activity director was a young lady who also sang in surrounding N.H.'s and
churches. We had a good, mutually edifying discussion.
Friday April 22-
Ministered at the "Stevens Nursing & Rehab Center" in Hallettsville,Tx. A large
audience. One 80 year old black gentleman, sang some songs with me. Nice!
Some cousins of mine, in a church here, host a volleyball fellowship every friday
night, from April - October. After 7 or 8 games, I was kinda sore. But it was worth
it. Fun Time!
Saturday April 23-
As I started North, thought I'd stop in Austin for the weekend. Spent the afternoon
with a very special Sister in Christ.
Sunday April 24-
So, one more time, I had the Honor of downing a robe and singing in the choir at
Jubilee. And the pleasure of saying, Hi and Bye, to my Brother's & Sister's in the
church. Also was able to attend the monthly Home Group Bible Study that evening.
That about wraps up last week. Time to head north and go find
another N.H.
May God Bless You And Keep You Safe.
Yours In Christ,
Larry
P.S. You may have noticed two N.H.'s with the name Stevens. They were built by
one of my uncle's many years ago. And although they have since been sold to
corporations, the one my dad lives in is still run by his brother and other family
members. Comforting.
To My Brothers & Sisters In Christ, Greetings.
I Hope and Pray all is well with you and yours.
It has now been 7 weeks since I began this Mision. I have, to date, had the privilege
of Sharing the Gospel in Song with 41 Nursing Homes and 5 Churches.
I Praise and Thank my Lord for this opportunity.
Monday April 25 -
While travelling west on hwy. 71, I saw a (Herd?) of Zebra. Not something you see
every day.
In Llano,Tx. I ministered at the "Hill Country Healthcare" N.H. When I finished, one
resident hollered out,( Come Again!! Call First!!) It was Cute.
Tuesday April 26 -
Played in Eden,Tx. at the "Concho Health & Rehab" N.H. An emotional group.
Wednesday April 27 -
In Anson,Tx. there were 2 N.H.'s one block apart. So I played at the "Anson
Healthcare Center". Then went over to the "Valley View Care Center" which had a
large crowd. Including an autistic girl of about 10 or 12. She got real excited during
songs with a steady beat. Brought a smile to everyone.
Thursday April 28 -
Stopped in Wellington,Tx. at the "Wellington Nursing Center" I was able to play
during their monthly birthday party. One lady was wheeled out during the middle of
one of my songs, she smiled and blew me a kiss. Sweet!
I was also allowed to minister at the "Parkview Manor Assisted Living" N.H. The
director invited me to stay for dinner, offered the use of their laundry faclities, and
the use of their guest shower. What a Blessing! Afterwards, I played dominoes with
a couple of old codgers till bedtime.
Friday April 29 -
Drove to Canadian, Tx. to see an old friend. Found out she'd fallen Tuesday, and
broke her hip. So, I went to Pampa,Tx. and visited her in the hospital. Then found
the "Pampa Nursing Center". And Played at their monthly birthday celebration. Nice
responsive audience.
Saturday April 30 -
Spent the day at the hospital visiting with Bobbie.
Sunday May 1 -
Drove east to Wheeler,Tx. Attended services there. Then found the "Wheeler
Nursing & Rehabilitation" N.H. They had no services going on, so I was able to
minister there. Later, I drove 10 miles to Mobeetie,Tx to a monthly singing for area
churches. Got to sing a couple of songs, and enjoy a pot-luck dinner. YUM! YUM!
Camped out at the church parking lot, and woke up to a snow storm. About 4
inches.
Well I'm getting a late start today, guess I better get going.
Please Pray For Me.
Yours In Christ,
Larry
I Hope and Pray All Is Well With You And Yours.
It has now been 2 months since I began this Mission. I have to date, had the
privilege of Sharing the Gospel in Song with 48 Nursing Homes and 7 Churches.
Monday May 2 -
Woke up to 4 inches of snow on the ground, and coming down as pretty as you
please. Drove into Wheeler,Tx. where I got a tour of a Christian School. And the
"180 Club" (a theater on the town square, converted with pool tables in the
balcony, dinner booths, video games and foosball in the foyer. The auditorium had
been turned into a sanctuary with platform, powerpoint and sound system. They
hosted Christian Youth Rallies for the tri-state area).
Headed east, stopped in Erick,Ok. and ministered at the "Erick Nursing Center". A
small privately owned facility.
Tuesday May 3 -
In Cordell,Ok. I sang at the "Cordell Christian Home" N.H. A large involved crowd.
At a church around the corner, Pastor allowed me to park overnight, provided a
shower and a Subway Meal Deal. May God Bless Him.
Wednesday May 4 -
Played at the "Silver Crest Manor" N.H. in Anadarko,Ok. Small group, a couple of
lady's sang most songs with me.
Thursday May 5 -
In the morning I played at the "Lindsay Manor" N.H. in Lindsay,Ok. A transit bus
driver I'd met at church the previous night, brought a group from the "Senior
Citizens Activity Center". So, we had a large lively audience.
Continued east, along about 2:00 pm, stopped at the "Ruth Wilson Hurley Manor"
in Coalgate,Ok.
Sang from 2:30 - 3:30 for a large, very responsive, audience.
Friday May 6 -
Got into Broken Bow,Ok. a little before noon. Went to the library to check email. At
the "McCurtain Manor Nursing Center", their scheduled entertainment had
cancelled. So, I was able to step up, and help. Gave and Received some hugs and
kisses.
Saturday May 7 -
Ministered at the "Rich Mountain Nursing & Rehab Center" in Mena, AR.
Sunday May 8 -
Attended morning worship services in Mena,AR. Was able to help out with "The Old
Rugged Cross". For evening services, attended church in Cove,AR. Once again, I
was able to contribute with "Ten Thousand Angels".
It's time to give a testimony and Praise Report. Two months ago, I began this
mission, leaving Austin,Tx. with 200 dollars. At some point after a couple of weeks,
I got down to around 20 dollars. I began to be apprehensive, and Prayed, asking
should I stop and look for some secular work to build up the funds. The answer, I
felt in my spirit was, you have your daily bread don't worry about tomorrow. So, I
kept going. There have been times I've been down to 20 dollars, and times I've
been down to Five. The Lord keeps suppling what's needed. Praise be the name of
the Lord.
EXAMPLE:
Last Sunday morning, May 1 st, I filled my gas tank and had 5 dollars left over.
Well, Monday a young man, while showing me their towns Chistian Youth Club,
slipped me $10. Tuesday, a Pastor provided a shower and a Subway Meal Deal.
Wednesday, a Director of a N.H. donated $25. Thursday, an elderly couple cleaning
the church building, contributed $25; the N.H. activity director donated $20; and a
man in Wal-mart handed me 20 dollars. God is Good!
It is a beautiful thing, when God puts something in your heart to do. And you do it.
Then he gives you Joy, and the Pease that passeth all understanding.
Please Pray for the continuation of this Ministry.
May God Bless You.
Yours In Christ, Larry
To My Brothers & Sisters In Christ, Greetings.
I Hope & Pray All Is Well With You & Yours.
What a wonderful week it's been. I've had the opportunity to see & visit with old
friends and acquaintances. A lovely time of fellowship and edification.
It has now been 9 weeks since beginning this Mission. Todate, I've enjoyed the
privilege of Sharing the Gospel in song with 53 nursing homes and 8 churches. To
God Be The Glory.
Monday May 9 -
camp free of charge. And, going the extra mile, she gave me the run of the office.
Including, the use of the computer and an opportunity to catch up on some TV
watching.
A locale singer, (Dottie), joined me at the "Mena Manor" N.H. We ministered to a
small, alert and very appreciative group.
Later that evening, I had the chance to help collect and sort egg's at their chicken
farm.
Tuesday May 10 -
Played at the "Western Arkansas Rehab Center" in Mena,AR. There was an 88 year
old ex-preacher, who'd had a stroke the week before. He was doing very well. In
fact, I was only able to sing 7 songs. Because, he preached a little mini-sermon
after each song. We also laid hands on a sister there. It all seemed appropriate.
Later that evening, along about dusk. I was able to play for the RV Park owner's,
family and friends. We had a good time.
Wednesday May 11 -
Headed north to Waldron,AR. and sang at the "Pinewood Nursing Center". Then
continued on to Hartford,AR. Attended services with folks I'd met last year. I got to
sing "Precious Memories". We had a nice reunion.
Thursday May 12 -
Sang at the "Hartford-Midland Senior Center", till their Bingo started. Joined in the
game, and won one game (my prize was a set of chip bag clips). Stayed and had
lunch, then played pool with some old hustlers.
Friday May 13 -
Played dominoes and had lunch at the Senior Center. Then drove over to
Poteau,Ok. and ministered at "The Oaks Nursing Center". The Spirit was really
moving. We had a wonderful time.
Later, back at the Senior Center in Hartford, I attended a pot-luck dinner, then
played Canassta till bedtime.
Saturday May 14 -
Went to an area wide preachers breakfast at the church. Then over to the Grand
Opening of the "Just A Rose Will Do" restauant. Located in the historical "Hartford
Music Company" building. This is where "I'll Fly Away" was written and published. I
was honored to be able to sing several songs with the folks performing there. Hey,
I got a free steak dinner out of it.
Afterwards, drove out to Sugarloaf Lake and visited with Linda & Joe. A Couple
who plays and sings at churches and functions in the area.
Sunday May 15 -
I was pleased to be able to sing "I Surrender All", in morning worship services.
Was treated to lunch at the new restrauant, with a large group from church.
At evening services, I got to sing "What a Friend we have in Jesus". At the end of
services, the church took up a Love Offering that so Blessed me, I can only
say."Thank You Jesus".
I Love and Miss You All.
May God Bless You.
Yours In Christ, Larry
To My Brothers & Sisters In Christ, Greetings.
I Hope & Pray All Is Well With You & Yours.
Another beautiful week of Growing & Learning; Sowing & Reaping.
privilege of Sharing the Gospel in Song with 61 Nursing Homes & 9 Churches. I
Praise the Lord for this opportunity.
Monday May 16 -
Leaving Hartford, I drove to Greenwood,Ar., and ministered at the "Greenwood
Retirement Center". Got a lively reception.
Then across town, (at a Home I played at last year) I sang at the "Pink Bud Nursing
Center". Nice Group.
Later, I pulled into a campground where I meet a locale man who ran home to get
his Mandolin. He had been active spiritually, in the past, but not recently. We
played some songs, he was very talented, and expressed to me a desire to
rededicate himself spiritually, and put his talents back to work. Please Pray for him.
Tuesday May 17 -
Drove to Danville,Ar. played at "Mitchell's Nursing Home Inc." A very large crowd,
in a large cafeteria. Thankfully, there was a couple(visiting their parents) who sang
most of the songs with me. Which helped provide enough volume for the big area
we were in.
Wednesday May 18 -
In Booneville,Ar., at the "Oak Manor Nursing & Rehab Center", I got to play some
dominoes for a while. Then sang to a small group.
Spent the afternoon visiting with a couple who Pastor the Church in Blue Mt.,Ar.
Although they don't have wednesday night service, I still got to do some work in
the church. ( Last year when I was through here, I ran some new electric circuits
and hung 5 new ceiling fans in the Sanctuary) The 6 th one (which was back
ordered) had come in, but not yet been hung. So, I got to finish the job.
Thursday May 19 -
Traveled on to Paris,Ar. where I sang to a small group at the "Paris Health & Rehab
Center".
Then, on the west side of town, I ministered at the "Eagle Crest Residential Care"
Assisted Living & Motel. A unique place, great acoustics, an appreciative audience.
One old timer told me to remember to find my way back. Nice.
Friday May 20 -
Stopped in Spingdale,Ar. Just missed hooking up with a childhood friend who
Pastors a church here. Went over to the "Springdale Health & Rehab Center".
Enjoyed a warm reception from a medium size group.
Saturday May 21 -
Van started acting up (speedometer stopped working right & lost my cruise
control). Continued on into Ava, Missouri and ministered at the "Deaconess Ava
Place". I played there last year. A large group gave me an enthusiastic welcome. A
Lovely Time!
Drove on into Mansfield,Mo., where the owner of an RV park I stayed at last year,
offered a free place to park for as long as needed. Praise God!
Sunday May 22 -
Attended morning services in Mansfield, where I was honor'd to be able to
contribute some songs. And received some encouraging words.
In the evening, I attended services at a church in McComb,Mo. There was a group
giving a slide Presentation of their Mission trip to Nicaragua.
There are a weeks worth of N.H.'s in a 20 mile radius of here, so Lord Willing, I'll be
able to spend some time in this area.
May God Bless You All.
Yours In Christ, Larry
P.S.
A locale mechanic, suggested my van might have a loose electrical connection.
Sure enough, I un-plugged and plugged back in a connector on the transmission,
and so far its working fine. Praise God!