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Contact, an edition of

The United Methodist Reporter


Two Sections, Section A • 039000 • Volume 158, Number 01 • May 6, 2011

THE OKLAHOMA UNITED METHODIST

In Russia, 7-year-old Veronika drew


this colorful dragon. See the Russia
Initiative Consultation story, 7A.
www.okumc.org

Tushka tornado rends church family life


By Holly McCray age 83, was critically injured. “We don’t need a prayer chain,” said Pas- They “always enjoyed music and singing,
On April 14, a tornado ravaged Tushka, As New Zion’s other members busy their tor Daniel Ramey, about the small congrega- bringing joy to many, especially ministering
including the home of Leo and Sammie hands at work in storm cleanup, they remain tion. Twenty worshipped on Easter. at the local retirement and nursing homes,”
Dement, members of New Zion United faithful in prayer for the Dements. Leo’s gui- According to Rev. Ramey, Sammie “was stated Sammie’s obituary.
Methodist Church there. tar playing is missed on Sunday mornings; he there every time the doors were open, if she Ramey assisted April 23 in Sammie’s
Killed were Sammie, 80, and her sister, chairs the Trustees, too. Sammie sometimes was physically able.” Leo helped build the
Ava Walkup, 75, of Sherman, Texas. Leo, sang as he played. parsonage. Continued on page 3A

2011 Annual Conference Saint Paul


Format blends new segments with rituals brings Course
By Holly McCray
A teaching moment. A photo contest. An
This segment responds to
young delegates’ requests for
of Study here
evening session solely dedicated to the election more education at the yearly Beginning in September,
of the 2012 General/Jurisdictional Conference meeting, explained Craig classes for Course of Study will
delegates from Oklahoma. Stinson, director of Connec- be offered at Saint Paul School
The 2011 Annual Conference will deliver tional Ministries/Congrega- of Theology at Oklahoma City
new elements, building upon 167 years of such tional Development. University.
meetings. President Henry is noted Course of Study is a path of
The conference meets May 29-June 1 for his excellence as a teacher education for Local Pastors. The
(Sunday-Wednesday) in Oklahoma City, at St. and is completing his 2010 Oklahoma Conference Jour-
Luke’s Church and Oklahoma City University first year as OCU’s nal lists 117 part- and full-time
(OCU). It opens Sunday afternoon at St. Luke’s, leader. Thus his talk Local Pastors under appointment.
with the Laity Session at 3:30 p.m. and Clergy introduces him as one Saint Paul at OCU initially
Executive Session at 4 p.m. of the annual confer- will offer study for those clergy
OCU will ence’s hosts who are in part-time service. Each
More news,
serve delegates and “is a way semester, one class will meet on
4-5A
a free picnic sup- for the delegates to see three Saturdays.
per on campus him in his element, doing the The first class will be “Pastor
Monday. thing he loves to do most, which is Voting on Monday: as Interpreter of the Bible,” taught
Livestream- teach,” said Rev. Dr. Stinson. All voting on General/Jurisdictional Confer- by Jim Darby. Dates are Sept. 10,
ing of the An- “I think everybody who has ever ence nominees is scheduled for Monday after- Oct. 8, and Nov. 5. Hours will be
nual Conference heard him has left wanting more.” noon and evening, at OCU’s Freede Center. The 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., with lunch
made its debut in Photo contest entries will be dis- first ballot will be taken shortly after the 2 p.m. included.
2010 and returns played at OCU’s Freede Center. Dead- opening of the afternoon session. Subsequent Deadline is July 11 to sign up
this year. Anyone line is May 6 to enter your creative balloting will take place in the 6:30 p.m. session. for that class. Prior to enrollment,
with a high-speed photo of an Oklahoma bridge, reflect- Added recently to the online Annual Confer- a student must complete licens-
Internet connec- ing the Annual Conference theme, ence information are the three-digit numbers ing school, have superintendent
tion can join the “The Plan: A Bridge to the Future.” assigned to the lay nominees and eligible clergy approval, and be serving a local
virtual audience, Resolutions await action by church nominees. pastorate, explained Audrey Wil-
watching the in- representatives. Proposals include: 1) At St. Luke’s on Sunday, lay nominees liams, registrar.
formative minis- a short-term mission policy, from- will be introduced in the Laity Session, at 3:30 The Spring class will be “Pas-
try reports and in- Eugene Lowry is this year’s Volunteers In Mission; 2) a call for p.m. At 5 p.m., a Dinner for Laity will offer a toral Care for Spiritual Forma-
spiring worship. guest preacher. He is also a civility, from the Board of Church light meal and informal conversation with the tion,” slated for Jan. 28, Feb. 25,
On Monday jazz musician. Story, 5A. & Society; 3) a request to hold every lay nominees. On Monday at OCU, a “Meet and March 24.
morning at St. annual conference in Oklahoma City, the (Lay) Nominees” reception will be from 1 Because part-time Local Pas-
Luke’s, the Teaching Moment will feature from the Annual Conference Council; and 4) a to 1:50 p.m. in the upstairs Leichter Room at tors often are bivocational, Saint
OCU President Robert Henry, presenting “My 2012 Apportionment request of $16,674,647, Freede Center. Paul leaders hope the weekend
Favorite Methodist.” from the Council on Finance & Administration. format will best accommodate
Continued on page 4A
their needs.
Watch Annual Conference LIVE May 29-June 1 ! “When I started as dean, a
number of district superintendents
asked if we were going to have
Be a virtual guest and view the soaring worship and dedicated work of this gathering as it
Course of Study here in Okla-
unfolds in Oklahoma City at St. Luke’s and Oklahoma City University.
Continued on page 2A
Find instructions and more Annual Conference information at: www.okumc.org.
The United Methodist Reporter (USPS 954-500) is published weekly by UMR Communications, 1221 Profit Drive, Dallas, TX 75247. Periodicals Postage Paid at Dallas.
Postmaster: Send address changes to The United Methodist Reporter, PO Box 660275, Dallas, TX 75266-0275.
Page 2A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact May 6, 2011

Course of Study:
Continued from page 1A
homa,” said Elaine Robinson, who leads can support, we’re going to do our best to
Saint Paul at OCU. “Over the past three make it happen. That’s always been my
years, we have worked to figure out how commitment from the beginning.”
we can. To bring it here means people She said about 200 people typically
don’t have to travel away.” attend Course of Study each summer in
The General Board of Higher Edu- Kansas City.
cation & Ministry (GBHEM) oversees “Part of educating is for each person
Course of Study for the denomination. to discover who God created them to be,
The five-year curriculum consists of 20 their gifts and graces to be the Church of
classes. Jesus Christ,” Robinson said.
Saint Paul School of Theology in Kan- “To be ordained, you ordinarily go
sas City, Mo., is one of the seminaries au- through seminary, one path of education.
thorized by GBHEM to offer the course. Course of Study is another path. Both
Thus approval extends to the seminary’s are intended to allow persons to serve
Friends of Children site at OCU, described Rev. Dr. Robinson.
In Kansas City, Rev. Dr. Darby is the new
in ministerial functions in the Church. It
depends on how you think your educa-
Circle of Care honored two individu- Maulding is an active fundraiser for director of Course of Study. tion is best served.”
als with the Burrel & JoAnn McNaught the ministry and an emeritus member “In whatever way we can support Register via email, cos@spst.edu, or
Heart of Ministry Award, presented at the of the Board of Directors, serving there the education of persons for ministry— call 816-245-4815.
organization’s recent Friends of Children since 1999. He also works through his whether clergy, Local Pastor, or laity— Learn more online—required read-
banquets in Tulsa and Oklahoma City. Sapulpa men’s group and church to that’s what we do,” said Dean Robinson. ing, pre-session assignments, enrollment
Left photo: Dwight Maulding of Tulsa, enhance the program sites. “If there’s a need of the Church that we form.
right, accepts his recognition from Circle Rev. Dr. Wells was executive director
of Care President Don Batson. for the Circle of Care in the 1980s, over-
Right photo: the award for the late seeing building of the Frances Willard More from Saint Paul at OCU:
Charles Wells of Oklahoma City is Center in Tulsa. A pastor and district su- n First-ever graduation ceremony, Aug. 19, at OKC-St. Luke’s Church
presented to his widow, Royleen Wells, perintendent, he also was key in building n Seminary Lite, new educational program for laity, Fall 2011
by state Rep. Harold Wright, right, and Epworth Villa in Oklahoma City. He died
Batson. in 2010. www.spst.edu

15 church groups extend hands


to help on Youth Service Day
Young people can make a difference. That message “Shout the Gospel! It Really Matters!,” challenged all
resonated in a number of ways during Youth Service to make deeper commitments to their faith and to live
Day, held March 5 on the Oklahoma City University that out in their actions. The benediction, based on a
campus. prayer of St. Francis, continued that emphasis:
More than 175 youths and adults, from 15 churches, “May God bless you with discomfort at easy an-
gathered for a day of service, fun, and food. swers, half-truths, and superficial relationships, so that
This year, starting time for the annual event was you may live deep within your heart.
moved to Saturday morning, to accommodate church “May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppres-
groups coming from farther distances. They engaged sion, and exploitation of people, so that you may work
in service projects for justice, freedom,
at 14 community and peace.
organizations and “May God bless
Youths from Seminole shovel dirt at Oklahoma City's Central churches. This you with tears to
Park Community Garden, as part of OCU's Youth Service Day. ranged from garden shed for those who
work at Epworth Villa to neighborhood cleanup with suffer from pain, rejection, starvation, and war, so that
Easter vigil makes dramatic debut Mustard Seed Community Development Group.
The day included campus tours, an information
you may reach out your hand to comfort them and to
turn their pain into joy.
OCU held its first-ever Easter Ezekiel’s Vision of the Valley of session with OCU Admissions Counselor Christina “And may God bless you with enough foolishness
Vigil on April 23, in the evening the Dry Bones, and The Resurrec- Mallory, and games. Bishop’s Scholars and other OCU to believe that you can make a difference in this world,
before Easter Sunday. tion. University Chaplain Rodney student volunteers provided leadership. so that you can do what others claim cannot be done.”
The service included lighting Newman expressed appreciation to The day closed with worship in the Bishop W. Bishop’s Scholar Alyssa Wardwell, a Religious
the Paschal Candle, remembrance the 25-plus students and to faculty Angie Smith Chapel. OCU students Nathan Oney and Life intern, coordinated the event for the Wesley
of baptism, and Holy Communion. and staff who shared their time Kristia Ford led praise songs. Jennifer Long, direc- Center at OCU.
OCU dance and theater students and talents. tor of Religious Life, presided at the service of Holy “It is a wonderful thing to see youth give of their time
made dramatic presentations of This demonstration of faith was Communion. to serve the community,” she said. “It was also great to
four passages of Scripture: Cre- offered as a gift to God and to all OCU welcomed Linda Harker, Muskogee District have so many student volunteers to lead the groups and
ation, Deliverance from Egypt, who came to be a part of the service. superintendent, as guest preacher. Her message, titled have one-on-one interaction with the youth.”

The Oklahoma United Methodist


Phone: 405-530-2075 robert E. Hayes Jr., bishop Nyla Wallin, administrative assistant/video coordinator
Joseph Harris, director of communications alicia Galyon, Web ministry/graphics design
Fax: 405-530-2093 Holly McCray, editor of publications amelia Ballew, The Media Center
To subscribe, send mailing information
1501 N.W. 24th and $15 to our address at left. Sign up for Contact Digest, a free electronic newsletter, at www.okumc.org. oklahoma United
oklahoma City, oK 73106 Moving? Send change by mail or e-mail: aballew@okumc.org. Send news to editor@okumc.org. Next publication date: May 27. Methodist Communications
Page 3A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact May 6, 2011

Strength for the journey: Ideas and thoughts from our bishop

The courage of Christ


“On the evening of that first day of the whom, if they were to believe the women, age is needed in life, you will agree that cour- lessness, sin, and shortcomings.
week, when the disciples were together, had risen from the grave! When we disap- age is almost life itself. Courage is needed One of the most beautiful insects is the
with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish point those who love us most, the greatest to hold fast to our heritage of good. When dragonfly. With its iridescent wings and
leaders, Jesus came, stood among them, and pain often comes from within us. religion is treated with indifference and dis- graceful flight, it captivates and charms on a
said, ‘Peace be with you!’ After he said this, Jesus was alive! What would he say respect, it requires courage to be true to the summer’s day. Yet once it was a grub, lying
he showed them his hands and side. The to them when he encountered them? How deep instincts of the soul. When everyone in a pond. Change came, and the dragonfly
disciples were overjoyed when they saw the would he vent his anger at them for running else is conforming, it takes courage to aspire. emerged from its early form of life. It found
Lord. And with that he breathed on them and out on him when he most needed them? The It was courage that sent our Lord to itself endowed with powers and beauty
said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.’” betrayal, the denial, the crucifixion, the resur- Jerusalem and enabled him to keep silent entirely new.
(John 20:19-20; 22) rection—he had predicted all of it. when accused, that made his suffering vicari- So it is with those born anew through

A
By BiSHop roBErT HayES Jr. Behind closed doors, they waited in ous, and that transformed the instruments of the power of the Resurrection. We rise from
long, bloody week had ended. stark fear. hatred into implements of love, using an old being frightened and discouraged followers
The crucifixion of two thieves Suddenly, Jesus was in the room with rugged cross—the emblem of torment and to being courageous, Spirit-filled people
and a so-called them! The mysterious pres- shame—to save the world. of hope who now know even death cannot
prophet was a fading memory. ence of Christ penetrated even It was courage that sent a young David to defeat us!
Life was returning to normal. locked doors! Yet with his first meet Goliath and that kept Daniel’s window In John Masefield’s play “The Trial of Je-
The restrictions of Sabbath, words, “Peace be with you,” he open toward Jerusalem. sus,” Pilate’s wife asks the Roman centurion,
which governed even how shattered their fears. And Jesus Courage is the essence of our faith that “Do you think He (Jesus) is dead?”
far a person could walk, were showed them the wounds in his keeps us going forward, not seeing what lies The centurion replies, “No, lady, I don’t.”
lifted. Most people likely went hands and his side. ahead, but knowing we will encounter God “Then where is he?” she persists.
outside, where lilies were Then he “breathed on them.” and God will make a way for us. The centurion answers, “Let loose in the
abloom and fresh air was free What was that all about? The courage Jesus gave to those disciples world, lady, where neither Roman nor Jew
for all to enjoy. It wasn’t an act of bestow- quivering in that room is the same courage can stop His truth.”
But one group of people ing peace, for Jesus greeted the he gives us today to meet our own crises. I wonder how many of you this hour are
stayed indoors, shutters drawn, men with those words. It wasn’t He gives us courage to meet life head- in your inner rooms, unsure the Lord is truly
hidden from the parade of gos- an act of power, because Jesus on, without fear and doubt. When we alive. You’ve heard others talk about seeing
sipers still talking about the Bishop Hayes knew the supreme power would encounter our own dark Fridays, we know him, being with him, and being transformed
events of the previous Friday. come some 50 days later. Resurrection Sunday is coming! We take by his presence. Can all of it really be true?
On such a night, what would cause 10 An older version of the New Testament on courage, believing Christ will find us Yes, it is true. However, you will not be-
men—several of them fishermen who loved may carry us nearer to the original mean- behind our locked doors of failure, hope- lieve it until you encounter him for yourself!
the out-of-doors—to bar themselves inside ing than most modern-day translations. A
a room? You might think they simply were translation from the Aramaic, the language
planning their fishing the following morning. which Jesus spoke, gives us this reading:
A closer look reveals they were afraid. “And when he had said these things, he gave
Fear gripped their lives, for they knew them courage.”
their actions of cowardice three days earlier He breathed on them and gave them
had made them targets for the Romans, the courage!
religious leaders, and maybe even Jesus— If you name all the ways and times cour- $50,000
Matching Grant
Tushka: announced
MATCH
Continued from page 1A a few short months later when rebuilding CONDITIONS:
funeral at Atoka UMC and presided at her was complete.
graveside service later that day in McKin- “They are resilient, wonderful people,”
● After your church
fulfills your 2011 Give through your local church
ney, Texas. He is also pastor at Atoka UMC. Hayes said. “Even though they are small, Urban Ministry
to Restore Hope and help
He reported the tornado felled a large tree Apportionment
they’re very active. They’ve been worship-
that pierced New Zion’s metal roof in at least ping there over 100 years. I treasure the
request (Line 462),
additional special
families avoid homelessness.
three places. Volunteers from McAlester- memories of my visit.” gifts to Restore
First UMC quickly removed the brush. He continued, “They had to replace the Hope must be Your generosity will enable
reported separately this United Methodist urban ministry in Tulsa
Bishop Robert Hayes Jr. recalled two organ because it, too, burned up. They went (Line 499) on
times he has worshipped with the congrega- online and found an organ exactly like the the Oklahoma to secure a $50,000 Matching Grant,
tion in southeastern Oklahoma. one that had been destroyed. But it was in Conference from the George Kaiser Family Foundation,
Contribution Form. for emergency rent assistance.
“When you lose life in these storms, it’s Tampa, Fla. The price was $39.95! A brother
• Kaiser will match,
always a sad day,” he said. “I’ve preached (of a church member) lived in Tampa and was up to $50,000 total,
there. I can remember the faces of the people, coming to the opening of the new church. financial support
Your gifts in 2010 helped 1,687 families
and their church. My heart goes out to them. He put the organ in his truck and brought it that exceeds the that experienced a sudden loss of
I pray for those families and for that church, to the church, and they had that organ in the
agency's $89,250 income and faced eviction from their
Apportionment
as they seek to get beyond this tragedy.” church on the Sunday we dedicated the new funding in 2010.
homes. Help us prevent homelessness!
He noted the storm’s occurrence during building. That’s how God works!”
the Christian season of Lent, leading into Since the April tornado, the disaster
Learn about all our
Easter. “We mourn and we grieve, but we response office of Oklahoma Conference
programs at:
also realize God makes all things new. God Volunteers In Mission is actively coordinat- www.restorehope.org
has even defeated death. We celebrate their ing help for Tushka. Volunteer groups should
lives and ministry, and we hope and pray contact Richard Norman in the Conference Restore Hope Ministries
God will restore and renew the work of that VIM Office. He emphasized the goal is to 2960 Charles Page Blvd.
little church there.” direct help to where it is most effective in Tulsa, OK 74127-8318
The church burned about six years ago, the area where 149 homes were destroyed.
according to Ramey. Bishop Hayes met The Oklahoma Conference Treasurer’s 918-582-5766
with the congregation, prayed with them, Office is accepting donations. Checks should
and viewed that devastation, then returned have “Tushka” in the memo line.
Page 4A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact May 6, 2011

Dennis Bruce John Ed Ginny Dick Ernest Larry Joseph Perla


Adlof Brotherton Corbin Dexter Hathaway House Jackson Jr. Johnson Lynch Goody

Living with history


New work preserves the past
for future needs
By Holly McCray 50 percent range. The fluorescent lights are sheathed with
You feel goosebumps rise. Yes, the room temperature is UV-blocking material, and only used when someone is in
in the low 60s. But the cool environment is not causing you the space. Special blackout material covers the windows.
to quiver. “Happy records are cold and dark,” Wolf said.
Christina Wolf takes a box from a shelf, lifts the lid, and “We’re mostly paper here. Light damage makes paper
reveals an Oklahoma treasure. brittle, yellow; and light damage is cumulative.”
You look upon the original Journal— the 1844 record Carpet is absent. Instead, the Storage Room floor is a
from the first annual conference of Methodists in Oklahoma. special gray epoxy surface, swept and mopped weekly. Carpet
You find it hard to breathe as Wolf turns the book’s hand- manufacturing uses chemicals that can cause the product to
written pages. (Though faded, the penmanship is splendid.) release damaging off-gases. Even carpet fibers in the air can
You understand those goosebumps. This history lives on be abrasive to the artifacts, Wolf explained.
today in you. The 168th annual conference meets this year. Baked enamel coats sturdy shelving units—wooden
This Journal is among precious artifacts carefully stored shelves also emit off-gases, she noted.
in the Oklahoma United Methodist Archives, housed in the Storage boxes and folders are acid- and lignen-free.
OCU Library. “The goal here is to make it last,” Wolf summarized.
Some brand-new upgrades enhance the preservation of An additional Processing Room is similarly designed to
these important keepsakes. A major renovation of the library’s maximize preservation work.
fifth floor, including the archives, has just been completed. The Oklahoma Conference Council on Finance & Ad-
Archivist Wolf and her staff will host an open house for ministration approved funds to partner in the remodeling.
delegates and other visitors during the 2011 Annual Confer- The funding support was requested by the Commission on
ence. The archives have gone “green.” Archives & History, chaired by Jerry Gill of Stillwater.
Guests will note the fifth floor has been reconfigured. The Archives shelter records of local churches as well
New group study rooms are wired for electronic presenta- as the Oklahoma Conference. The facility also houses early In the controlled environment of the Archives'
tions, and a large Honors Seminar Room is where Wolf of- railroad maps, Civil War letters, original sheet music, and new Storage Room, Christina Wolf examines a
fers workshops in historical research and preservation. The rare books that include an edition of Shakespeare’s works. box of historical church records.
Archives Reading Room features low-energy, longer-lasting Among the rows of shelving, too, are records of the Oklahoma
LED lighting. Indian Missionary Conference and OCU’s archival records. n Hours for the open house during Annual Conference
The biggest changes, however, are in the extensive Stor- Recently added is the collection of the late Ted Agnew will be 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday.
age Room. Access is through an unremarkable door, with an of Stillwater, whose passion for history was highly valued n The Annual Conference luncheon for the Oklahoma
electronic keypad. The archives’ security system is “our first in the Oklahoma Conference. Wolf said Agnew’s materials United Methodist Historical Society will be Wednesday, June
line of defense,” Wolf said. fill about 150 boxes. 1. Contact Wolf to reserve tickets.
Inside the Storage Room, the temperature drops no- Know more: n On July 21-24, OCU will host a national Archives &
ticeably. A new, separate HVAC system maintains it at 62 n The Reading Room is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday- History event.
degrees. Humidity also is monitored, programmed for a 45- Friday. (cwolf@okcu.edu, 405-208-5919) www.okumc.org/archives_History

Annual Conference:
Continued from page 1A
Also Monday, voluntary practice voting offices. Deadline to sign up is May 6 for day’s Celebrate the Laity Luncheon, with a.m., St. Luke’s
using the machines will be offered between youth programming, open to sixth- through presentation of the “It Worked for Us” • Tuesday—Retirement Service, 11 a.m,
noon and 1:30 p.m. in the Freede Center 12th-graders; contact Youth Ministries at the awards, and Wednesday’s United Methodist OCU Freede Center
arena. Oklahoma Conference headquarters. Rural Fellowship Luncheon. • Tuesday— Service of Ordination, 7
Direct any questions to Joseph Harris, Schedules for both age groups include n The Retired Clergy’s annual used- p.m., St. Luke’s
jharris@okumc.org, 405-530-2077. Monday evening, to accommodate the vot- book sale will be held in the OCU softball
building, north of the Freede Center. To Free health screening:
Items of note: ing session.
n A number of United Methodist-related volunteer or donate, contact Phil Davis at • Monday—7 a.m.-1 p.m., St. Luke’s
n Housing reservations are due by May
groups host special meals, award presenta- OKC-Wesley Church, 405-525-3524. Vaught Chapel
13 for OCU’s United Methodist Hall, and
by May 15 for Crown Plaza on Northwest tions, and programs during the meeting. Primary worship: • Tuesday/Wednesday—7 a.m.-1 p.m.,
Expressway. Ticket deadlines vary; contact the group for • Sunday—Service of Commissioning, 7 OCU Kramer School of Nursing (West)
n Reserve childcare, for infants through more information. p.m., St. Luke’s
fifth-graders, by May 15, through St. Luke’s Among those special events are Tues- • Monday—Memorial Service, 10:30 www.okumc.org/pages/detail/924
Page 5A
The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact May 6, 2011

Leonard Roger Gerry Marilyn Trinnette Margery Phil Stan Richard


McCarty Pitt Rhodes Schellhamer Smith Van Oostrum Ware Warfield Whetsell

members. Five of them have each served 40 or more years in ministry. Not shown above is Gary Graham.

St. Luke’s Lowry preaches


to unveil and all that jazz
upgrades The Annual Conference’s guest preacher, Eugene
Lowry, is truly a Great Preacher — and a jazz musician.
Rev. Dr. Lowry has been interviewed in Odyssey TV’s
Annual Conference delegates Great Preachers series, and four recordings feature his
will notice changes at OKC-St. music, which relates jazz and Christianity.
Luke’s. From Kansas City, Mo., Lowry was professor of
The church has just completed preaching for more than 30 years at Saint Paul School
several major renovation projects, of Theology, after pastoring churches. Now a professor
the result of a $2.6 million capital emeritus, his travels as preacher, teacher, and pianist
campaign. have broadened in scope. Thus he comes to Oklahoma
The cornerstone project was in late May.
expansion and renovation of the He will preach at the Service of Commissioning on
Christian Life Center. New chairs Sunday evening, and at the Memorial Service on Monday
and reorientation of the space—the morning.
stage is on the east side—allowed During his career, Lowry has preached at events for
for expanded seating. The center 20-plus denominations and lectured in 50 theological
now accommodates up to 800 In St. Luke’s Narthex, granite and marble flooring replaced the vinyl. The seminaries. His teaching emphasizes the role of narra-
guests! And look for the cross original bronze crosses were restored and set into the new floor. tive in preaching. He is a clergy member of the Missouri
symbols in the carpeting. Conference.
The Narthex is being restored and character to the space. updates to the Adult Education wing and His writings include six books on narrative preaching.
and updated. First installed in 1957, The centerpiece fountain will have replacement of the Television Ministry Among them: “The Sermon: Dancing the Edge of Mys-
the vinyl floor has been replaced with a golden bowl, 6 feet tall, from which Equipment. tery,” “Living with the Lectionary,” and “Doing Time in
granite and marble in the exact colors, water will cascade into a granite tile The entire renovation was conceived the Pulpit.” His keyboard lecture/concerts led to CDs that
patterns, and dimensions. Lighting basin. in order to increase the hospitality and include “The Sound of Good News,” “Inside Out—Music
changes have brought additional light The capital campaign also enabled welcoming ministries of St Luke’s. for Steeple and Street,” and “Theology of the Blues.”

Conference-wide policy proposed for Volunteers In Mission


Oklahoma Volunteers In Mis- said Rev. Basset, “is to ensure mains active in promoting VIM
sion is proposing a wide-ranging ongoing excellence in our short- and being a resource for teams
Let’s fill the truck!
Oklahoma VIM is collecting emergency supply kits during
policy document for its work going term mission program within our and team leaders, to find suitable
the Annual Conference, to be distributed where people are in
forward. Conference. places to serve and share up-to-
great need of humanitarian aid due to disasters.
The proposal will be presented “As we have asked—and date information about the various
Deliver donations Sunday through Wednesday to the des-
for consideration at Annual Con- received enthusiastic support project sites.
ignated truck parked in the lot north of OCU Freede Center.
ference. Detailed on pages 71-73 from—our local churches to as- “We see the proposed policy
Of special need at this time are School Kits, Birthing Kits,
of the Pre-Conference Workbook, sume more organizational over- document as a framework to main-
and Cleaning Buckets, requested by UMCOR (United Meth-
the plan was first mentioned at last sight of their own teams, it has tain the integrity of our work in
odist Committee on Relief). However, all types of UMCOR
year’s conference. become important to make sure Christ’s name, while letting each
supply kits are appreciated.
The policy defines a short-term we are all working together in the local church determine where its
A total of 10,547 kits were donated during the 2010 Annual
mission team as any mission group best possible way for the benefit people feel God is calling them to
Conference VIM kit drive.
that travels outside Oklahoma for of those we serve and those who work,” Basset noted.
Please assemble kits carefully, as specified on the
any length of time or any mission are sent in service.” “Ultimately, effective par-
UMCOR website: http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/getcon-
group serving in Oklahoma for two The increasing number of ticipation in God’s mission is the
nected/supplies/
nights or more, explained OKVIM teams being sent in mission has work of the local church, not the
www.okvim.org
Director Jeremy Basset. meant the Conference OKVIM Conference office. So, enabling
The proposed policy will re- staff can no longer coordinate the churches to take ownership of this
quire churches to register their project details for every team. The ministry, while using our strong Church is an increasingly complex the Church and team participants
short-term mission groups with office has, thus, reshaped its work connectional system to oversee issue that demands our attention by clearly placing on record what
the Conference VIM office, ensure to focus on training leaders, setting what churches cannot do alone, and the development of best prac- it is that constitutes an OKVIM
properly trained and certified lead- standards for teams representing ensures that we in OKVIM do tices,” remarked Brian Bakeman, team under the oversight of our
ers are in charge of the teams, and the denomination, and ensuring what we can best to support this Conference treasurer. Conference.”
confirm that appropriate insurance safety and proper liability coverage ministry.” “This proposal, while aimed at (Editor’s note: The document also
has been obtained for their teams. for teams in the field. “Travel and service in the ensuring we do mission with maxi- can be viewed online. Search for “Pre-
“The heart of this proposal,” The OKVIM office also re- name of The United Methodist mum effectiveness, also protects Conference Workbook” at www.okumc.org.)
Page 6A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact May 6, 2011

Annual Conference ‘New Christians’ training set for Broken Arrow Deadline to order Journal
special offering In Broken Arrow on May 14, Bishop Scott Jones of Kansas will headline a Conference- is July 1
Churches are encouraged to take a special wide evangelism training opportunity, at Abiding Harvest UMC. Deadline is July 1 to order the
offering and send it with their delegates. Bishop Jones is a former professor of evangelism at Perkins School of Theology in Dallas. 2011 Journal printed as a book.
One-hundred percent of the offering will go Following his presentation, nine workshops will offer help to build your skills as a witness Each Annual Conference delegate
to these three areas— for Christ. The program is from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There is a cost for lunch. will receive a CD copy, paid for by
The Saturday training is part of an ongoing evangelism initiative, named “New Christians.” the Conference.
It is led by the Evangelism Task Group of the Conference Discipleship Ministry Team (DMT). Cost is $15 for the printed book. If
Some of the workshop titles and leaders are: you prefer this version, you are urged
• Local Church Hospitality—Bob Johns to place your order during the an-
• Developing a Bringers Culture in Your Congregation—Chris Buskirk nual Conference. Fill out the coupon
• The Mobilized Prayer Unit—Ben Williams and Temple Diehl in the Pre-Conference Workbook,
• Assimilating New Members—Cindy Robertson attach payment, and turn them in at
• Who, Me, Evangelism?—Frank Denney the Communications display.
• Evangelism and Young Adults—James Lambert Or mail to: Jan Polson, 1501 N.W.
• How To Share Your Faith—Bob Pierson 24th, Oklahoma City, OK 73106.
To register, e-mail rev. Dr. pierson, bpierson@tulsacoxmail.com. Books will be sent in September.
Bolivia
http://bokp.org
The Bolivia/Oklahoma Methodist
In memoriam
Partnership began in 1986. Today John Morgan Arkansas. He retired in 1978 to Rolla, but Leo Culver. Funeral was April 8 at Paul
several ministry options enhance the Rev. John Baber Morgan, 98, died April continued to serve churches. His ministry Thomas Funeral Home in Miami.
partnership, coordinated by David 18, 2011, in Rolla, Mo. Service was April 22 stretched across 61 years. Iona Jo was born Feb. 28, 1923, in Penn-
Stephenson through Oklahoma’s at Rolla-First UMC. He officiated at the marriages of all his sylvania. A homemaker, she and Rev. Culver
Volunteers In Mission. Born on March 16, 1913, in Winfield, children and grandchildren, and one great- were married for 67 years. The couple moved
Kan., he received his Doctor of Philosophy grandchild. from Grove to Miami six years ago. Rev.
from California Graduate School of Theol- Survivors include three children: Johnie Culver died March 4, 2010.
ogy. He began his ministry in the Evangelical Morgan of Branson West, Mo.; Ruth Hagg Survivors include sons Keith, of Jay,
United Brethren Church (EUB). He was a of Floyd, Iowa; and Rev. Michael Morgan of and Tad, of Pennsylvania; daughters Shelby
delegate to the conference at which the EUB Tulsa, pastor at Keota and McCurtain UMCs; Coltharp of Miami and Darlene Taylor of
and Methodist Churches merged. 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Grove; 11 grandchildren, 24 great-grand-
Beginning in 1973 in Oklahoma, he Two wives predeceased him. children, and six great-great-grandchildren.
was pastor at Walters, OKC-Epworth, and iona Culver • peggy June langrehr, 64, of Piedmont
Cleveland/Blackburn. He also served in Iona Jo Culver, 88, of Miami, Okla., died died April 5, 2011. She was the mother of
Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, California, and April 5, 2011. She was the widow of Rev. Pastor Will Langrehr of Wister UMC.

Wedding
Michelle Coulter and Adam Daigle mar-
ried on March 26, 2011, at Tulsa-Trinity
Cookson Hills United Methodist Church, where Rev. Coul-
ter is pastor.
www.cooksonhillscenter.com
The Cookson Hills Center ministry is Opportunities
a joint effort of the Oklahoma Confer-
ence, the Oklahoma Indian Mission- Financial Secretary: Part-time. St. Mark’s
ary Conference, United Methodist UMC, Search Committee, 8140 N.W. 36th St.,
Women, and the General Board of Bethany, OK 73008, 405-789-9033.
Global Ministries. The UM presence youth Director: Part-time. Roland Young-
among rural, low-income people in berg, Clinton UMC, 580-323-3179, ryoungberg@
Northeastern Oklahoma has shown cableone.net.
an important aspect of the way we Business Manager/administrative Coordi-
care for others as concerned Chris- nator: OKC-First UMC, Staff Parish Relations
tian people. Committee, sprc@firstchurchokc.com, 405-239-
6493.
Bookkeeper/accountant: Full-time. Nichols
Hills United Methodist Church, Randy Scraper,
rscraper@nicholshillsumc.org.
New Hope Elementary Music Director: Will Rogers UMC, Bob
Johns, 1138 S. Yale, Tulsa, OK 74112, 918-834-
School in Liberia 0891, bjohns@willrogersumc.org.
accompanist: Part-time. Tulsa-Trinity
Funding is UMC, Shelly Coulter, shellycoul@yahoo.com,
needed for 918-743-8911.
a facility to Director of youth Ministries: Full-time.
house this Wagoner United Methodist Church, Shannon
school on Davis, sdavis@wagonerfumc.org.
family land Director of youth Ministries: Part-time.
given by Tulsa-New Haven UMC, 918-743-6491, info@
Bishop Ben- newhavenumc.org.
nie Warner. Senior High Minister: Part-time. Special
The focus of angels (Special Needs) Director: Part-time.
the school is Tulsa-Faith UMC, Heather Scherer, hscherer@
holistic in ap- faithtulsa.org, 918-252-1679.
proach. This Director of Children’s Ministry: Full-time.
new facility will include a medical clinic. Tulsa-Faith UMC, Chris Tabberer, ctabberer@
faithtulsa.org.
Page 7A
The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact May 6, 2011

Oklahoma hosts U.S.-Eurasian gathering


By Holly McCray “Be under no illusion,” Bishop Robert
United Methodists from America and Hayes Jr. told Consultation participants. “As
Eurasia recently met at St. Luke’s in Okla- I look at the plans you have, the road map
homa City to explore the Eurasia Road Map, will take you to the narrow gate, the hard
an innovative path for partnering in God’s way” (Matthew 7:13-14).
mission. Jim Athearn of Virginia said, “It is dif-
The event was the 15th Russia Initia- ficult to keep the heart steady on the mission
tive Consultation, held April 7-9, related of Christ when there is such fierce competi-
to the General Board of Global Ministries tion for resources.” He is the GBGM Russia
(GBGM). “Come Walk With Us on the Initiative coordinator.
Road” was the theme. Photos by Holly McCray Partnerships enable challenges to be
The meeting’s purpose was to educate Russian pastor Daniel Starikov, left, overcome, declared Eduard Khegay of
and encourage U.S. churches to expand their is introduced by Tom Hoffmann of Moscow, a district superintendent and pastor.
commitment to mission with the younger, Tulsa, on April 9 at OKC-St. Luke’s, Bishop Hayes recalled his first journey to
growing UM presence in five countries: Rus- during the Russia Initiative Consul- Russia, 44 years ago. “I went in a time when
sia, Belarus, Ukraine, Moldava, and Georgia. tation. the Church was not allowed to be a church.
A pastoral salary support project, com- We spent three and one-half months, spread-
mended by the Oklahoma Conference Mis- visited several Oklahoma churches while he ing seeds, learning about the culture. Now it
sion & Service Ministry Team (MSMT), is was stateside for the Consultation. In an in- thrills my heart to see the work going on in
one way Oklahomans are connecting. terview, he described young people growing Russia,” he said.
Near Moscow, Pastor Daniel Starikov has in faith and number at the Lytkarino church. “At every turn in the road, there will be
revitalized the church in Lytkarino, Russia, He was his Conference’s delegate to the 2008 our Savior as our guide. God has given us the
after a period of decline, reported MSMT General Conference. greatest compass: Jesus Christ. He walks the
Chairman Tom Hoffmann of Tulsa. MSMT Through a Partner Church Covenant, an road with us, and he shows the way.”
is encouraging Oklahoma congregations in Oklahoma congregation commits at least
partnerships with the Lytkarino church and $1,500 for each of three years, beginning in Know more: Intricate paper artistry by Tatyana
other donors, to meet the basic salary needs 2011, Hoffmann explained. n Karen Distefano, Conference Mission Molodyk is one source of support
for Rev. Starikov. Other mission opportunities exist through Secretary, kririe@aol.com, 918-336-0351 for Saratov UMC in Russia. For
“Local church relationships deepen the Advance Special Projects and Volunteers In n Tom Hoffmann, MSMT Chairman, a greeting-card product line, the
faith of both churches,” said Rev. Hoffmann, Mission. The Road Map’s vision is extensive; tomhoffmann@fumctulsa.org, 918-592- pastor cuts up magazine pages to
associate pastor at Tulsa-First. He is a former the Eurasian churches are resolved to grow 3862 ext. 115 form scenes, such as this Nativity.
missionary who served in Russia. into self-sufficiency. Currently 125 congre- n http://new.gbgm-umc.org/work/ Three tiny pieces shape an eye, for
Starikov, who speaks some English, gations are reported in that episcopal area. initiatives/russia example.

1000
Will You Join the Growing Ranks of the

Dear Friends of Circle of Care:


Every Sunday morning on my way to the choir room at church, I witness children
climbing all over Jesus. At the entry of our Children’s area, we have a beautiful larger-
than-life statue of our Lord. Isn’t it fabulous that this piece of art is designed to invite
Anonymous John & Jamie Crooch Robert & Ann Ivester Joe & Judy Robinson interaction?
Anonymous Michael & Janet Crooch Mr. & Mrs. Ivan Keatley Joe & Shirley Rolston It is such a visual reminder to me of the importance of children in the eyes of
Anonymous Philip & Lisa Crow Keith & Patricia Kennedy Gary & Sharon Roth Christ. Let the children come to me and do not hinder them, Jesus says. And He
Anonymous Bobby & Shirley Darnell Jean Key Mike Self & Shannon Nakvinda reminds us that whoever welcomes children in His name, welcomes Him.
Anonymous Marsha Davis Steve & Suzan Knight UMW of Shawnee-Wesley UMC Friends, since 1917, the Oklahoma United Methodist Circle of Care has provided
Anonymous Gregory & Mary Ann Edwards Greg & Anita LaPat Arden & Rita Ruth Smith help, healing, and hope to at-risk children, youth, and families across our state. Circle
Anonymous Jo Fowler Brian & Julie LaPat Bill & Martha Smith of Care is the United Methodist Boys Ranch and the United Methodist Children’s
Kay Adair David & Cindy Frieze Robert Lee Craig Stinson & Krista Jones Home, providing residential programs for teenagers. It is the David O. Beal Indepen-
Donald & Cheryl Baker Mike & Elaine Frizzell Ed & Melba Livermore Clark & Joy Struebing Sr. dent Living Program, providing shelter and support for high school and college-aged
youth making the transition into adulthood. It is the Holsinger Home for Children, a
Randy & Eddisu Barker Jerry & Jany Gamble Stony & Elaine Lockston Carolyn Taylor
licensed foster home for large sibling groups. It is Pearl’s Hope, a transitional program
Don and Lynn Batson Robert & Prudy Gorrell Hal & Jean Long Ken & June Tucker
for homeless women and their children at the Frances E. Willard Home in Tulsa. It is
Enloe & Wanda Baumert UMW of Grove-First UMC Bryan & Vicki Mannering J. M. & Patricia Vanderwiele Jr. Child SHARE, recruiting and supporting foster families statewide.
David & Laura Beal George & Jo Hall Dwight Maulding Kathy & Bob West In my role as Miss America so many years ago and my career as a broadcast
Clara Brown Rudolph & Madeline Hargrave Bob & Doris McKown David & Suzan Wolf journalist, I’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand the plight of too many children
Spencer & Mary Brown Jr. Ralph & Linda Harker Billy & Lora Meade Bill & Lissa Wright without a future. I know that Circle of Care is making a difference.
Mary Butler Valerie Hatley Mike & Christy Mordy Donald & Barbara Wright Today, we are embarking on a new initiative to ensure that all these programs are
Ivan Bys Bishop Robert & Dee Hayes David & Laura Morrison Circle of Care Staff: able to continue, and expand to meet the growing needs. It is called Project 1000.
Michael & Leanne Chaffin John & Anne Heaton Ted & Laura Mosteller *OKC/Communications/ We are seeking to recruit 1000 new donors who will each pledge $1,000 per year for
Arlene Chriswell Billy & Ann Hebblethwaite Chuck & DeeAnn Nordean Pearl’s Hope three years.
Ralph & Midge Coffman Jono & Jenny Helmerich Pathfinder Class—OKC-Grace UMC *UM Boys Ranch Project 1000 is an ambitious campaign that will allow Circle of Care to look ahead:
Randall & Kathryn Coit Highland Park UMC Bob & Peggy Peters *UM Children’s Home How many more Child SHARE foster families can be lifted up? How many more
Lloyd Cole Jr. Leonard & Anna Lee Hinderliter Lenert & Bobbie Pfeiler *Independent Living youths can be served at the Boys Ranch, the Children’s Home, the Independent
Robert & Debbie Craine Jim & Mary Nell Holder Donald & Valerie Reeves *Child SHARE Living Program? How many more families can be helped through Pearl’s Hope? How
CC & Anna Marie Crooch Fund Ross & Jane Hutchinson John & Helen Riley many more lives can be forever changed?
Look at it this way: For only $19.23 per week, you can invest in the future. You
can help a child, a family. You can become one of the 1000. Won’t you join us?
To make your pledge today, please call 405-530-2078
or visit our website at: In His name,

http://www.circleofcare.org/1000.html Jane Jayroe Gamble


Page 8A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact May 6, 2011

Bishop blesses a Thunder storm

Photo provided by OKC Thunder


At center court, Bishop Robert Hayes Jr.
offers the invocation for “Nothing But
Nets Night,” April 8, at the OKC Thunder
basketball game. Players and a military
color guard surround him. Ticket sales
topped 600 through the Oklahoma United
Methodist Foundation, benefitting the
global campaign to eradicate malaria.
United Methodists and the NBA are
founding partners in the effort. Showcas-
ing “Nothing But Nets” and raising more
funds at a booth that night are, from left,
David Wiggs, Stillwater District superin-
tendent; Loyce Gandy of the Foundation;
volunteer Stefanie Van Nort; and Kristin
Van Nort of the Foundation. Funds netted
totaled $10,214, and the Thunder beat the
Photo by Jennie Kiner Denver Nuggets.

Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation insights

Events in May target personal finances


Make plans to attend our you can use in your church and
free EQUIP training events: community.
n May 5 in oklahoma City You will learn how FPU
at Chapel Hill United relates to community involve-
Methodist Church ment, have opportunities to ad-
dress the unique characteristics
n May 19 in Broken arrow of your church family, and work
at abiding Harvest United on ways to tailor EQUIP for
Methodist Church. you. And there will be time to
These two events will pre- share ideas with other churches
pare your pastor and church considering EQUIP.
leaders to launch EQUIP in The crown jewel of EQUIP
your church. We especially is to apply the same principles
encourage attendance by the it teaches to your church bud-
senior pastor, the finance or to prepare and offer FPU to a who would like to give more how to wisely spend, save, and get, altogether avoiding finan-
stewardship chairperson, and majority of the congregation, in order for the Church and its give. cial “emergencies” within the
other key leaders within each either in one large setting or ministries to reach more people At the one-day EQUIP train- church, resulting in true finan-
church who desire to help the over the course of several ses- for Christ. However, many ing, you will learn about demo- cial peace.
members become debt-free. sions. Americans have fallen victim to graphic information specific to Make plans to attend one
EQUIP uses Dave Ramsey’s EQUIP has the potential to our culture’s call to spend all we your community, strategies for of the May training dates. To
Financial Peace University change the culture, even the make—and even a little more. enrolling the majority of your register for EQUIP or for more
(FPU) and teaches the members DNA, of our churches regard- Financial Peace University active members in FPU, and information, call Kristin Van
of your church how to handle ing stewardship and money. helps people take control of a week-by-week how-to for Nort at the Foundation, 800-
money the way God intends. We believe our churches their finances, helps them get implementing EQUIP. We also 259-6863, or visit our website,
The program leads each church are filled with faithful people out of debt, and shows them will provide promotional tools www.okumf.org.

The oklahoma United Methodist Foundation inc., 4201 Classen Blvd., oklahoma City 73118; www.okumf.org; 800-259-6863

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