Strange noise and engine temp

First off, have you had to add water? Is it low? If you have a very small leak, it will slowly get hotter and hotter. I would check for proper servicing both in the radiator, and the over flow container.
If the water level is correct, when was the last time you replaced your thermostat? If you havent in several years, its a good idea to replace it before it sticks closed on you. This may fix your problem. But if not, a water pump may be the problem, but usually they go bad by leaking.
Its a good idea to get this fixed before you have major engine problems. Do not let the water tempt get into the red zone. You can warp heads and have big problems real quick.

I agree with all he said and get the pump replaced. Chrylslers are called, water pump eaters. My own van did the same for about a year. It would only loose coolant once in a while. The noise sounds like a rock is knocking around in the front of the motor. Look at the white lettering on the drive belt, if there is none or it's brownish get the water pump and belt changed asap. If it's a 3.3 or 3.8 and the belt breaks or pump locks-up your stranded. Mine went bad at only 37000.