Asbury
TIDINGS ADVENTURES
JANUARY 2011
OF AN ORDINARY GIRL
SURVIVORS THE REALITY, NOT THE SHOW
TO TANZANIA
AND BACK AGAIN
THE PASTORS NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
Making I A t in
merica
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Asbury
TIDINGS JANUARY 2011
It’s a New Year!
engagement within the Tulsa community. I’m particularly interested in this myself. The year 2011 should see this area grow.
2010 is gone—2011 has arrived. How do you feel about it? How was your year in review? How is the New Year shaping up for you? Cynics dismiss this as “more of the same,” but the classic definition of insanity is “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” In other words, there are some things we need to change. If we resist and fail to make some adjustments, we’ll end up far behind. Sometimes the needed changes are “What?” responses (“What do I need to do to be better?”), and sometimes they are “Who?” responses (“Who do I need to become?”). It’s usually a combination of both, but they are predicated upon the “Why?” response (“Why am I supposed to be changing?”). Ecclesiastes 3 reminds us: “There’s a time for everything.” Wisdom dictates knowing what to keep and what to let go. Jesus discussed such in talking about how good traditions became encased in “traditionalism.” “No one puts new wine into old wineskins” (they burst). He was trying to tell the Pharisees that they were focused upon the wrong thing. Like modern-day Pharisees, we can unfortunately replicate that mind-set quite easily. Here are a few on my list that I’m looking at in 2011 for Asbury.
2.) Discipleship. Our mission statement is:“Glorify God— Make Disciples.” I’m curious as to exactly what our “Make Disciples” strategy looks like. If I can’t specifically state what it is, that’s not good. Our Director of Ministries, Brad Tuggle, is going to help us with this in 2011. 3.) Communication. You’ve no idea how difficult it is to communicate with five generations. What works for one group tends not to connect with another.While I personally yearn for more blending within the generations, we’ve also got to realize that “snail mail,” e-mail, print, texting, tweeting, Facebook, etc., are all different ways of communicating.That you’re reading this in the Tidings magazine says something about your communication style. As our worship services reflect great diversity, so will our communication strategy. (We will also be looking at our worship services to try to increase our attendance.) Angie Brashears is our new staff person who will be leading our response to this area in 2011. 4.) The Asbury Foundation. Gifts given to our Foundation can be used in a multitude of ways to help further the Gospel This is a strategic way to endow the generations to come. I’m very interesting in helping the board develop our Foundation. Thank you for your response in 2010. We continue to praise the Lord for the favor He has shown Asbury. We anticipate a wonderful 2011. We’re both grateful and optimistic.
1.) Local Outreach. Our Tulsa community is changing.The demographics around our campus reflect that. It presents us with great opportunities and great challenges. Our Director of Local (or “Regional”) Outreach, Radhika Mittipalli, and her committee, are helping create a larger vision for our
CONTENTS
3. What’s Happening 4. This Generation 6. Adventures of an Ordinary Girl 8. A Birthday Wish 9. Ask the Pastors 10. Making it in America 14. Shelter from the Storm 16. Survivors
18. To Tanzania and Back 22. A Good Marriage 23. Locally Grown 24. Opportunities
Asbury Tidings is a monthly publication designed to tell stories of lives being transformed by the power of Jesus Christ. You may read back issues by visiting www.asburytulsa.org Page 2
Dr. Tom Harrison, Sr. Pastor
Managing Editor Tara Lynn Thompson tara@taralynnthompson.com Graphic Designer Jonathan Van Risseghem vanriss.com Photographer Don Kreutzweiser donsimages.com Guest Editor Christy Phillippe Guest Contributors Stephanie Hurd, Abby Sluice, Tara Lynn Thompson, Brad and Cheryl Tuggle, Rod GIles, Brett Tabler, Phil Odom, Jan Odom , Radhika Mittapalli
by Dwight Yoder, Executive Director
O
ccasionally
I’m asked to speak to a group within Asbury about the structure, operation, and vision of our church. In previous columns I’ve addressed some of these points. This month I will give a brief overview. Asbury has a very effective governance system consisting of four groups: administrative council, trustees, finance, and staff parish relations. Those serving on the committees are non-staff members of Asbury. Membership of each group is on our Web site. Major decisions for the church are reviewed and approved with the appropriate committee. The committees also serve as a valuable source of counsel for Tom and the management staff, while providing oversight and accountability for our performance. In addition to the four governing groups discussed above, there are many ministry councils that serve similar roles within the work areas of the church. Asbury can only accomplish the ministry work we do because our people serve so capably. Consider day-to-day management of our ministries and operations. A number of years ago Tom made a strategic decision regarding the role of pastors within our church. He believes that pastors are gifted and called to spend their time with people—ministering, teaching, worshipping, and providing spiritual leadership. Furthermore, he knew that others have the experience and gifts to better manage organizations and programs. Based on this understanding, he changed the organizational model. Pastors at Asbury are not distracted by having responsibility for budget, staff, or programs. They spend almost all of their time applying their pastoral gifts to the congregation. Ministries are headed by dedicated lay (non-pastor) staff who coordinate and support the many volunteers who do the bulk of the real ministry work that takes place through Asbury. This model has contributed to the success with which Asbury has been blessed. Everything that Asbury does is for the purpose of making progress toward our MVO (Mission, Vision, Objectives). Here is an abbreviated form; the full version is on our Web site. Mission: Glorify God and Make Disciples. Vision: Lead all people to Belong, Believe, Become. Objectives: Every member (1) confessing Jesus, (2) seeking the lost, (3) worshipping, (4) in a Christian group, (5) developing a biblical worldview, (6) tithing, (7) praying, and (8) serving.Tom is absolutely passionate about seeing continual progress on our MVO.
Several years ago, Asbury went through a major planning exercise. Out of that came what is referred to as the long-range plan together with operating principles. These guide all that we do. The operating principles fall into five main points: (1) do everything with excellence, (2) clergy serve in pastoral, not management roles, (3) members do most of the ministry work with staff serving to facilitate and guide, (4) good financial stewardship, and (5) effective governance. The long-range planning effort was significant and engaged several working groups from the congregation. Here is the simple summary that was made of the major results. Asbury has two longstanding foundations: (1) pastoral care for our members and (2) investment in our children and youth (Tom’s “kids come first”). There are three transforming pillars: (1) worship, (2) small groups/discipleship, and (3) missions/outreach. It is through these three areas that Asbury will primarily work for the transforming of our membership toward the achievement of our MVO—which was strongly confirmed during the study. Two areas are currently the target of additional effort and investment: (1) local outreach, and (2) our discipleship development process, including small groups. Work began early this year and will continue well into 2012. You will hear more about these initiatives in the months ahead. Most of us, most of the time, like to focus on the ministries, on the frontline—and well we should. But I like to remind us that there is another aspect of our ministry that is not as visible but is equally important. Without it our ministries could not function. We call this part of our organization “support services.” As a large church we can support multiple ministries at a large scale. But we can only do that because we have a large, well-equipped facility with suitable technology. We have good information technology, financial management, and other supporting functions. Part of the reason for Asbury’s success is that our members support and fund both the frontline ministries and the required support functions. Thank you for all that you did in 2010 for the Kingdom through Asbury.We can do even more in 2011. Page 3
THIS GENERATIO What do the youth think…about life, God, choices, principles, events, ideas,…? We’re about to find out. Check back each month for a new feature, “This Generation,” where we ask them to comment on sermon topics and scripture. HOW DO WE, AS CHRISTIANS, TREAT EVERYONE WITH EQUALITY? WHAT DOES “EQUALITY” IN GOD MEAN? To me, equality means treating everyone with the same treatment that you’d like to receive, regardless of what you might think about them—like the Golden Rule. God loves us all, and He loves no one person more than another. It’s a heart matter, knowing that God loves that other person just as much as you,but it’s also a head matter because I think we sometimes need to remind ourselves that God loves that other person just as much as you. TIFFANY CALHOUN AGE 21
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It’s simple. We, as Christians, fail everyday to treat ourselves and each other with equality. Because of our human nature, it is a process unobtainable without Christ to guide us. We should, however, see others just as we see ourselves; because that is the way the Lord perceives us. Through our fathers eyes we are all one and the same and all loved the same way. If God can love every single one of us even in our sin, then how can we not love each other? Just as the Samaritan woman struggled, we all, including myself, struggle everyday to understand this concept and put it to action. KELSI BURDICK AGE 18
ON As followers of Christ, we are required to treat people as our Leader treated people: equally, no matter the differences. Unfortunately, because we are fallen, we try to attain this goal on our own independence, not allowing the Spirit to fill our hearts with compassion and grace in those difficult moments when it’s hard to love our brothers and sisters. The only way we can truly begin to see people through God’s eyes is to know God and allow Him to replace our human tendencies with His heart. God is love, therefore He cannot act out of anything but love. That’s one thing God is incapable of doing. Because our sin is gone, we are holy and blameless in His eyes. Who are we to totally eradicate what was done on the cross? We are equal and nothing can ever change that. SARA REIDY AGE 19
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Ad
By Steph
anie Hur d
Ah the New Year...
the time when Americans resolve to make personal improvements and pursue a better, more disciplined life. Fitness is often a top concern. I have to admit, I’m between gyms right now and have been for 18 months. But there are different kinds of fitness, and in the notso-distant-past God showed me I was a couch potato in more than one way. Every year, for several years, Dave would ask about my NewYear’s resolution.“To have better posture,” I would say.
“You say that every year,” he would reply.
“This year I mean it,” I would grunt. In reality, my posture never changes. So I decided if I was going to fail anyway, I should set my sights higher.The next year Dave asked about my New Year’s resolution—I wowed him. “To read the whole Bible in one year,” I replied. He raised his eyebrows and nodded his head. I could tell he was impressed. Page 6
Year One: I made it to January 27th. Genesis, chapter 48. Give or take. Year Two: I made it as far as February 13th. Numbers, chapter 13 or 14. I think. Year Three: I made it all the way to March 25th. I was somewhere in 2 Samuel when I got too busy to keep going. Later that year, I started hearing about believers in poor countries who walk miles to share one Bible, and others who only have one torn page of scripture in their possession. Then I imagined being in heaven with Jesus, looking Him in His real-life-resurrected eyeballs and admitting that in 20-plus years of believing (with no less than ten Bibles in my possession) I could not discipline myself enough to read His Word with any sort of regularity. So I changed my goal from reading the Bible in a year, to simply reading my Bible every day. I bought a new “daily-reading Bible” because none of the others seemed to be working. Then I found a friend to commit with me, and together we pursued self-discipline. Year Four: I made it to December 31st. Revelation, chapter 22. Hooyah! I also learned I was a lazy pray-er. One day, a friend voiced a prayer aloud about a teensy matter. The prayer seemed inane to me. In the car on the way home, I remember thinking, “I didn’t know you could pray about something like that. I thought prayer was reserved for
dventures of an
Ordinary Girl
big, important things. Things you really need God’s help with—like cancer and life-threatening situations, or for college students passing a test.” As I was reading my Bible every day, I was learning how Bible-people prayed, and realized nothing was off-limits. King David sought the Lord all the time. I imagine his servant saying, “Sir, will you be wearing the blue or green tunic today?” And King David’s replying, “Let us inquire of the Lord.” So I decided to put everything on the table with God. But the effort of lifting up prayer requests about everything was exhausting. I nearly quit trying, until I learned prayer is the art of conversation with God, not attempting a state of perpetual supplication. Now I invite God into that inner dialogue the right side of my brain is always conducting. It doesn’t come naturally—but it is getting easier. Through this ongoing dialogue, we have developed a history together, and my faith is enlarged because I see God working in the smallest details of everyday life, not just the sporadic 911 calls. Ironically, 95 percent of my prayers are inane. But the inane becomes profound when placed in the hands of the living God. About the same time as these other two discoveries were occurring, God started speaking to my heart about forgiving the one person in this world I hated. I resisted. Anger is an easier emotion than pain or fear, and I wanted to take the easy path. But forgiveness is not a matter of wanting to; it’s a matter of obedience. So I started praying, “Lord, You know I don’t feel like it, but
I’m choosing to forgive this person and I’m trusting You to help me sort things out.” That one issue led to several others—including the forgiveness of an entire denomination that had hurt me, to forgiving myself for my many failures.The unforgiveness wedged in my heart had created a spiritual logjam that hindered my access to God. He did help me sort things out, and the healing was a long, slow progression—but in my relationship with God, I felt like I had moved off His back porch and into His living room. Learning to walk daily with God is a process, and the real joy is in the discovery of it. Reading the book of Nehemiah for the first time was fun. Praying God would send us a reliable and affordable house painter, and then having one knock on our door two days later was exciting. Watching God make an extremely hateful relationship into a peaceful one was almost unbelievable. In Kingdom People, we learned the direction we are moving is more important than where we are. We all have to start someplace. We have to do something. Taking scripture seriously, learning to pray, and choosing forgiveness literally changed my life (that, plus getting an iPhone). Honestly, I’m a slacker when it comes to posture, and exercise (and cleaning toilets, and a bunch of other stuff), but I don’t want to be a slacker when it comes to God. Learning to walk daily with Him is the only real adventure this ordinary girl has ever had. Page 7
A Birthday
F
Wish
—BDAY BLESSINGS MAKE BIRTHDAY MEMORIES FOR NEEDY CHILDREN by Abby Sluice
ebruary 22. That’s my birthday. As a child, it was the one day a year I decided what the family ate for dinner. For my third birthday, it was hamburgers. I still have the picture of it.
birthday pal for a child in need. I literally jumped out of my son’s bed and turned on my computer. My long-forgotten folder was still there and new ideas started pouring in. It was time—His time.
Cake? That was there, too. My mom’s homemade chocolate recipe (the one I now use for my own son’s birthday) with buttercream icing. Nothing fancy, but such a treat.
Now on staff in Children’s Ministry, I am in daily contact with talented people who not only listened to this idea but brainstormed ways to make it better and put it in motion. God’s seeds have not only taken root, they have bloomed because of the hard work of so many.
As the youngest of four, birthdays weren’t extravagant, but they were always remembered, always celebrated. Imagine that it’s your birthday and no one’s hanging balloons or baking a cake. It’s just another day of trying to get through. That isn’t a scenario common to just homeless shelters.There are plenty of children living in homes here in Tulsa who don’t have their birthdays celebrated. Their birthdays are just another day instead of being a celebration. About five years ago, my family began helping with the deliveries of the Thanksgiving food baskets and Christmas gifts that Asbury collects for families in need. While I loved getting the chance to share in such a deserving ministry, I often found myself asking my husband,“What about the rest of the year? What about these children’s birthdays? Are they being celebrated?” Little did I know that God was busy planting seeds in my heart. Two years ago, my mother sent me an article from her local newspaper. It was the story of a woman who started putting together birthday bags for children in need. Paperclipped to the article was a note from Mom saying, “Sounds like something you could do.” God’s seeds began to take root. I found an e-mail address for the woman and we started communicating. She was more than happy to share ideas with me, thrilled that children in a city 700 miles from where she lived might receive the same blessing. I made a folder on my computer with my thoughts and ideas. I called a friend and got her excited to help, too. We were going to do this. Then life, as it often does, got in the way. Between work and our involvement in our children’s schools, there never seemed to be time to make our plans a reality. My grand ideas were soon forgotten. God didn’t forget. He was still lovingly taking care of the seeds He had planted. He knew when the timing would be right. That timing was October of this year. Reading with my son one night, I was looking in The Bible Almanac for Kids, earmarking ideas I could use in my classroom. I came across a page on ways to be a secret Page 8
On November 21, Children’s Ministry introduced our students and parents to Bday Blessings. Bday Blessings is the opportunity to make sure the birthdays of children in need are recognized and celebrated. A Bday Blessing bag contains everything parents or guardians would need to celebrate their child’s birthday. Items included are: a cake mix, disposable cake pan, candles, napkins, plates, forks, as well as a new, unwrapped, age-appropriate gift (valued between $10-15), gift bag, and tissue paper. While Asbury does a wonderful job partnering with different organizations in Tulsa to work with and mentor children, we knew we needed to start getting the parents/guardians of these children engaged, as well. The blessing bag will allow them to put the gift together and make the cake so they can present it to the child and make him or her feel special. Also included in the bags is a laminated blessing card. It is our hope parents will share the words on the card with their child, communicating how special and loved that child is in God’s eyes. During the month of December, Asbury’s children had the opportunity to either adopt a child’s name or donate the various items needed for the blessings bags. While we will continue to work on other missions projects in 2011, Asbury’s Children’s Ministry has committed to providing Bday Blessings bags throughout all of 2011 to those organizations with which we have partnered. At this time, we are actively working with Youth at Heart, Walt Whitman Elementary, and Wesley United Methodist Church. We are also working with Operation Hope Prison Ministries to find a way that will allow incarcerated women to celebrate their children’s birthdays during visitation times. As a child, I was blessed with a birthday celebration every year. I’m still blessed. Do you remember how you used to celebrate your birthday or how you now celebrate your child’s? Together, we can help families bless their children. We can help them celebrate that “every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). For more information on ways you can donate items to Bday Blessings and/or ‘adopt’ a child’s name, please contact Shelley Hughes at 392-1172 or shughes@asburytulsa.org.
Ask the
Pastors
WHAT NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION RECURS ON YOUR LIST MOST OFTEN? I resolve to be consistent by consistently putting the same resolutions on my list year after year after year...
Rev. Dub Ambrose Pastor with Men
I never make resolutions because I know I will fail. I’ve found it better to set my goals low and that way I always succeed.
Rev. Spencer Smith Pastor with Young Adults
I must say WORLD PEACE! I resolve to make world peace and to lose ten pounds . . . again!
Rev. Dick Read Pastor of Discipleship
Lose weight (obvious to everyone) Grow in my relationship with God (obvious to those closest to me)
Rev. Jim Lenderman
I really don’t make New Year Resolutions; maybe I am a scrooge in this area. However, I do make declarations for each year to use as part of my morning devotions. “In 2011 Almighty God, this year I declare that my work will be prompted by faith, and my labor will be prompted by love, and my endurance is inspired by hope in my Lord Jesus Christ.” ( 1 Thessalonians 1:3)
Darlene Johnson Pastor to Women
I don’t believe in resolutions ever since I started gaining weight. But as Sally and I journeyed through our Kingdom People program I became even more sensitive to the movements of the Holy Spirit and my need to be more sensitive to my “first love,” Sally, and her needs. It is far too easy to get wrapped up in the life of the church and forget that she is “my first love.”
Rev. Charlie Ryser Pastor of Pastoral Care
Pastor of Wesleyan Leadership
Get to know your pastors. If you have a question you would like to ask, please send it to Tidings Editor Tara Lynn Thompson, tara@taralynnthompson.com. Check back periodically to hear more from your pastors. Page 9
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Making I A t in
T
he music in the background sounded like Henry Mancini. It had that Pink Panther feel—cunning but cute, sneaky and breathless, instruments so alive they wink at you in flirtation. Detlef Sobek always plays KWGS 89.5, the University of Tulsa classic radio station, in the background. His clients love it.They come to his salon at 5510 South Memorial needing a haircut. Maybe only a trim. Maybe an entirely fresh look. What they find is a legendary life story of perseverance and triumph, success and ambition, redemption and inspiration, all while getting washed and rinsed with “Baby Elephant Walk” playing in the soft distance and motivational Donald Trumpesque quotes on the walls. The story begins in 1955. It was the year the first McDonald’s opened, the musical Oklahoma hit theaters, and, redefining rock and roll, Elvis Presley caused his first riot. But that was America.That’s not the beginning of Sobek’s story, that’s the end. His story starts in a much different place, a place of oppression, a place where the government thumb rested upon the head of each citizen. It was Leipzing, East Germany, communist country, a life so oppressive a wall through Berlin—armed and fortified with German Democratic Republic guards—was necessary to keep millions from defecting. His story, however, is one of the lucky ones. He made it out. At 14 years old, with his parents and younger brother, Sobek boarded a train and rode into freedom. This was the pre-Berlin wall era. If life would ever change for their family, the Sobeks knew it had to change now. His mother had already served two years in prison, six months of which were in solitary confinement, for selling coffee beans and cigarettes—both deemed black-market items.
merica
by Tara Lynn Thompson
It was time to defect. “We didn’t want the brainwashing anymore. There was no freedom of speech, no freedom of ownership, no freedom of religion,” Sobek says. “We decided to escape. My parents had lost everything so they made a decision. They took my brother and me and a suitcase.” That was it, the end of that life, the beginning of political asylum.The rest of their family stayed behind, relatives this golden-haired,blue-eyed young Sobek would never see again. Life started over. It was the first time. It wouldn’t be the last. Four years later,while still in his native country,an 18-yearold Sobek had finished his apprenticeship in hairstyling, a trade that would eventually bring him to America, to Tulsa, to a notable career, and an even more notable spiritual transformation. But that came later. Soon. But later. For experience in his trade, the young Sobek traveled Europe. From Austria to Italy to France, Sobek spent three months in each country learning style and technique, before returning home and meeting his future wife. They were married before his 20th birthday. If life hadn’t been exciting enough yet, it was about to alter completely. Sobek was about to change everything. Country, included. In 1963, a magazine ad advertising a need for a hairstylist in America caught his attention. This could be it, the chance at prosperity, the chance at coming to America. So he applied and was accepted.This had been his dream—to live in the land of opportunity, to raise his family in the United States, to have a future that rested solely on the drive of his ambition and the strength of his character. So he left. His family, including his wife, who was pregnant with their first child, awaited word. Page 11
“When he decided to look for God, he found Him. It’s been the discovery of a lifetime...” “My childhood dream of coming to America became a reality,” Sobek says, while sitting in a black swivel chair inside one of seven hair salons he’s established in Tulsa over the last 47 years. “As a little boy, I dreamed of America. Now I was here. Everything was so tall. It was just an incredible fantasy.” Back home, Sobek was used to the crumbled buildings in post-WWII Germany. Now in America, Texas specifically, life was bigger than itself. The buildings stretched into the sky. The commerce moved at a hair’s breath pace. Opportunity waited behind every idea. He was in America.And he didn’t speak a word of English. To get by, Sobek says he made cards that he posted on his hairstyling cubicle mirror. The cards said, “Hi. How are you? Want a haircut? Short, medium, or long?” Armed with talent and determination, he went to work. Within three months, the salon where he worked transferred him to their Dallas location and he could afford to send for his expectant wife.What would become a legacy was just starting. Sobek worked in a salon next to Neiman Marcus in Dallas, a salon that attracted many wealthy clients from Tulsa, Oklahoma. That’s when he first heard of his future hometown. “I came to Tulsa and explored it over a few weekends. It had a population then of 150,000. There was only one shopping center—Utica Square,” he says. The city enchanted him. Much like Sobek, it had determination and drive. It also had a large European population and an active German community. It offered his family a home. Page 12
“With eight years of education, no high school or college degree, not speaking English, no money, a wife and baby, I started in Tulsa,” Sobek says. Only in America could a young man, within a few months, launch out on his own. In Tulsa, he opened his first salon. It was a calculated risk but necessary. He not only needed to provide for himself, his wife, and his newborn daughter, he needed a way to provide for his parents and brother. They, too, had found their way into the land of liberty. “Growing up after World War II, the four of us was all we had. I brought over my parents and was totally responsible for my parents and my brother, responsible for their livelihood. It was an amazing experience.” In Germany, his father had been an engineer. In America, he and his wife converted their garage into a laundry business and kept Sobek supplied with clean towels. Eventually, Sobek would own and operate Miss Jackson’s Penthouse Salon, where he remained for 25 years, before starting Detlef’s European Hair Design, where he’s been for 22 years. Since coming to America, he has also recruited 45 other hairstylists from Europe, including Marilyn Ihloff. Success came. Money came. God wasn’t part of the picture. “In the 60s, 70s, 80s, I didn’t need God. Money came in faster than I could spend it,” says Sobek. “Then everything crumbled.” His life skipped a step. He went through two divorces, one to his wife of 20 years, a second after his wife of less than two years walked out without warning. Suddenly, his life, as if housed inside a snow globe, had been picked up and shaken with the pieces falling haphazardly at his feet.
“I was devastated,” he says. When he decided to look for God, he found Him. It’s been the discovery of a lifetime, one he shares with his clients. Inside his salon, amongst the pictures of beautifully stylish women, Sobek has found his ministry grounds. “In my salon, I touch and minister,” says Sobek, holding up his dexterous hands with a history all their own.“You get to know the inner mind. It’s the power of touch. People reveal their troubles. They come to you every week or month.You are a second psychologist.” Sobek says people often remark on his secret joy. What is it? Where does it come from? He says they not only want to understand it, they want to have it.That opens the opportunity for him to minister, while sharing some of his life lessons, like: “Yesterday is history, today is victory in Jesus, and tomorrow is a mystery.” “The two things every man is looking for is love and freedom.” “When you get up in the morning, you need to ask yourself, ‘Why?’” “What is the definition of commitment? There is no alternative.”
“The secret to success is this: You’ve got to know what you want. You’ve got to be willing to pay for it. You’ve got to have a plan. You’ve got to put that plan into action. And you’ve got to tell yourself ‘when’.” Sobek found Asbury nearly ten years ago.You can catch him at two services every Sunday, the 9:15 am and the 11 am. In the earlier service, he sits in the back and listens to the music. In the second service, he sits on the front row in close proximity to the ministry. “I asked Pastor Tom once, ‘Is it okay if I listen twice?’ He said, ‘Sure.’” And so he listens twice. Sobek still has the same ambition of his youth, though now it’s focused on sharing encouragement with others to realize their full potential, both in business and with God. He came with nothing, not even knowledge of the language, but has successfully written his own paycheck for 47 years. That, he says, is the power of consistency. Never stopping. Never accepting defeat. “I’ve lived three lives,” says Sobek, whose office wall is dressed with framed Tulsa World and Tulsa Tribune articles—dating back as far as July 1981—about his legendary journey. “One in East Germany, one in West Germany, and one in America, the land of opportunity. It’s been so good to me.”
“Worry is nothing more than a misuse of the imagination.” “The road to success is always under construction.” “When faced with a mountain, I will not quit! I will keep on striving until I climb over, find a pass through, tunnel underneath, or simply stay and turn the mountain into a gold mine with God’s help.” Page 13
Shelter “Oh that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest — I would flee far away… I would hurry to my place of shelter, far from the tempest and storm” (Psalm 55.6–8).
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from the Storm by Brad and Cheryl Tuggle
G
od made each of us with an extraordinary ability to heal from wounds. Lacerations bleed, but eventually skin will mend. Bruises blacken, then turn yellow, but in time they disappear. Bones that are broken or fractured will, in time, actually fuse back together. There are some internal wounds, however, that never seem to heal.They are much like scabs that reopen again and again, sometimes by the smallest touch. These wounds remain exposed and near the surface so that any number of triggers can instantly transport us back to a time of fear, vulnerability, and shame. This is the trauma inflicted by sexual abuse.There is no more damaging and lasting violation of one person upon another than to use a child as a sexual object. Victimized children not only internalize and assume blame for the incident, but the subsequent guilt and shame permanently distorts sexual intimacy for each survivor at the root. Later, as teenagers and then adults, there is no “normal”— sexual experiences continue to traumatize, leave scars, and create insatiable hunger and longing. While there is no more defiling weapon in Satan’s arsenal, there is also no more liberating, lasting
freedom than to be released from the bondage of this shame and guilt.This can begin by understanding two key truths: 1. You are not alone. Shame and secrecy keep us from reaching out—but it’s estimated that one in three women is sexually violated in some way by the age of 18. 2. Second, healing truly is possible. We have a Savior who was also innocently wounded, unjustly used, unfairly blamed, and the object of scorn. He identifies with us in all our weaknesses,so He can lead us to a future of hope and redemption.The wounds can be layered throughout our lives like rings on a redwood tree, but release and freedom are possible. In January, a small group will be meeting for 13 weeks to begin this process of healing.We’ll meet on Thursday nights from 6:30 – 8:30, using the Shelter from the Storm workbook. It’s a big commitment to decide to deal with this, but ignoring the past is like trying to keep a beach ball underwater—it takes a great deal of effort, and before long, it’s exhausting. If you’re interested, call 392-1134—all calls are kept confidential. We’re praying for you.
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Survivors the REALITY not the show
I
see by Rod Giles myself as a
survivor. H
eck, I’m in my early sixties so you would guess I have survived a few things in my life to this point. We all count things like surviving our teen years and college, our children’s teen years, moves to new cities for new jobs, things like that. For me, it goes far beyond that. I have survived nervous calls to my wife following multiple job changes, voluntary and not. One time I was escorted away from my office by security staff. It was pretty traumatic, but in time I got over that. Having to literally pray over the checkbook was hard, too. But there is nothing like a brush with death to clear the head and help you see clearly what is really important in life. I’ve had that experience, too. I had a heart attack at age 53, followed by open-heart surgery after I gained the strength to survive it. I experienced the miracles of modern medicine, which I’m grateful to God for, and the lessons learned through it all. I discovered it was the people around me and a stubborn faith that kept me going, kept me looking beyond the pain—emotional and physical. I know that I am not unique. Others have been faced with similar obstacles in life, have become real survivors in their own right. I have met many in this church and have seen their faith and the people around them help pull them through. This last year I have had the privilege to lead the Asbury Cancer Support Group. Yes, I have survived cancer, as well. This group meets every month and members talk about their experiences, both present and past, with cancer, their treatment, and how their faith is faring under the struggle. We don’t offer advice about specifics of the Page 16
disease or its treatment, because it is unique to each one of us. But we are there to support, encourage, and love each other through it. Some time ago it occurred to us that there are people struggling with many health issues other than cancer. Some people have even asked about support groups for their specific medical condition. No matter what the name, however, severe ongoing health conditions affect people much the same. It is often a day-to-day struggle emotionally; we grieve in the loss of what we had before, the change in lifestyle, and we fear what comes next. There is the ever-present question, “Why me, God?” It is really a special kind of faith walk that requires other people with an intimate knowledge of it to understand and help in the process. Out of all this has come the inspiration of a new group at Asbury, one not diagnosis-oriented, but one that focuses on the strength that only faith can give and the love of other brothers and sisters in Christ. After all, God is the ultimate healer. One of His names is JEHOVAH-ROPHE: “The Lord Who Heals,” Exodus 15:22-26. Rooted in the Hebrew word rophe (“to heal”), it implies spiritual, emotional, and healing (Jer. 30:17; 3:22; Isa. 61:1). God heals body, soul and spirit: all levels of man’s being. Our new group is called Survivors!, for those who have survived or are struggling to survive in the midst of serious health issues. It is for the patient, family, and friends. We encourage you to visit, see if this is a place for you to begin or continue your ultimate healing. We will meet every second Sunday afternoon at 4 pm in the church parlor. Part of our time will be viewing and discussing videos presented by a man in the midst of his own cancer survival, what he has learned about the 23rd Psalm, and how the Lord’s Prayer can have an impact on our lives. Come be a part of the group for your own sake. But don’t be surprised if God might choose you to be a part of the healing for others. He is so good.
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Tanzania To
and Back Again by Brett Tabler
“I have been carried by wings
of angels and have slept in the hands of God. You have lifted me onto their wings with your prayers, and nestled me into His hands with your faith.”
This
is the best description of how it feels to be on a short-term mission trip to the Morogoro district of Tanzania. For each of the three times I’ve been, there has been immense peace and joy. I cannot thank enough those of you who have gone before me—you early explorers, dedicated believers, health providers, construction workers and water well drillers—for you have made it easy for others like me to walk in your paths. The construction team trip this past September was especially wonderful and difficult for me. On the positive side, our team of Marilene and Scott Long, Mike Mastraccio, Earl Stutzman, my wife, Tonya, and me completely enjoyed each other’s company. With our long-term missionary hosts, Linda and Robert Spitaleri, our efforts could be chronicled in business magazines as a highly functioning team that our western world so highly praises.
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More accurately, it was consistent prayer, God’s guidance, and trust in each other and the local pastors that enabled our team to quickly make decisions, independently travel to different locations, and effectively participate in projects at several villages. Conversely, we began our journey in sadness knowing that a beloved friend, Luka Ramadhani, had died a few short weeks before our trip. Luka was in his twenties, a carpenter by trade, an evangelist by choice, and disciple by action. Three years ago, he helped Mike and I become friends with Pastor Leonard Mwimbe, a broad-shouldered, deepbrown-eyed man who is in charge of 16 village churches. Although Pastor Mwimbe’s eyes are kind, his smile is sparse. He has enormous strength and is involved with each of the building projects in his area. While Luka can keep pace with Leonard, Mike, two villagers, and I share a single shovel as we mix concrete for the floor repair. In the heat of the afternoon, Mike, Luka, and I are the honored guests for lunch. The pastor’s wife opens their home, washes our hands, prays for us, and then presents a table of rice, beans, fruit, and bottled water. She exits to allow us opportunity to eat. Serving myself, I spilled some rice on the dusty table and made a statement of being sorry for making a mess. Luka serves himself next. Quietly and almost invisibly, he picks up the spilled rice and adds it to his plate. Immediately the message sinks in. All food is important and leaving even small amounts on the table would not only be an insult to the hosts but would also be a waste of a valuable resource.
Brett Tabler
In the end, God’s plan “ is better than our own... ” As we ate, the conversation became easier and more animated. Pastor Mwimbe finally joined us and Luka translated our stories. A few grunts of approval came from the pastor. Eventually, and through Luka’s assistance, we are able to share a few personal stories. Leonard appreciated our candor and openly laughed at some of our western methods, like Mike and I driving the one-half mile between our houses to visit. Leonard walks hours to visit even one of his churches. He was clearly frustrated with our inability to talk directly and even tried to teach us some local phrases, which Mike and I clearly butchered. However, during that wonderful afternoon, with Luka’s help and Leonard’s patience, we four men overcame all barriers of experience, distance, and language and became friends. One day during last year’s trip, our team was at Gwata, a village just off the Morogoro highway. This location is different as it has a large (40x40) concrete block building left over from an earlier era when grains and other foods were stored in the
rooms. Now in disrepair, the water storage tanks gone, and the guttering in shambles, the rooms are used for school. A few brick houses are sparsely situated in easy eyesight, and thatched roof mud huts dot the close horizon. After a rousing morning playing with several dozen children and acting out a play of the Good Samaritan as Pastor Mwimbe narrated, the team was invited to lunch. Leonard gently took hold of Mike’s arm as they walked to the shade. While traditional among men, this display of affection is reserved for those whom you have great respect and friendship. I remember being thrilled for Mike and reflecting on the vast disparities in our countries. Although the entire Morogoro region is impoverished, many here are rich in the most important aspects of life. What a great reason to offer up praise to our Lord! Through a complicated series of events, this year’s team separated into two groups the first Sunday of the mission. In the end, God’s plan is better than our own and many good things are accomplished through this separation. Page 19
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For example, Robert, Mike, and Earl are able to meet with a water well drilling company after church service at the seminary. This brought closure to many outstanding issues that had plagued Robert for months. The rest of us went to Maseyu with long-term Lutheran missionary and pastor, Herb Hafermann. The one-hour drive allows us quality time to talk with Herb. Additionally, Maseyu is Leonard’s home with his main church in the front yard. Greetings with Leonard are warm and long and his smiles come freely. After we enter the home, Herb ensures everyone is introduced properly. Conversation is difficult but consistent as new friends listen to stories from previous meetings and elders of the village thank us for our consistent patronage. Church service this day is special with representatives from five villages of several hours’ distance.Three villages present their choirs, who alternate in providing up-
A few days later Leonard came to the seminar by early morning bus. Earl, Scott, and I would join him back at Maseyu for some small repairs.Always carrying more than his share, Leonard picked up several tools and escorted us across the two-lane highway to the small bus stop at the blacktop. His large eyes were searching ours for ways to communicate, but our verbal efforts were not rewarded. The bus ride was much easier and faster than expected and there were no chickens or goats on the vehicle, which is common. Semkoko, a young evangelist from Leonard’s church, joined us at Maseyu. We began our project by making crude pencil and paper drawings until all of us were in agreement on how to proceed. The work was easy but the communication tough. Late in the day I tried to make a joke of Leonard’s hair being grayer this year. This did not go well until Scott discovered a Swahili phrase book and found the word
Tonya, Marilene, “ Scott, Mike, and Earl
all have rich and important experiences to share. tempo songs. Many of the 120 attendees join in the singing. The brick building with its large openings on three sides, metal roof, and concrete floor seems to resonate with the foot stomps, claps, and shrill sounds the women make with their tongues. Light breezes carry the music across the meadow and into the Muslim area of the village.We are prepared and invited to respond with songs in English, which brings even more joy to the ceremony. Pastors Hafermann and Mwimbe baptize two adults and a child, and friendly locals help us find the right passages as we try to respond in Swahili. Before communion, our team is introduced. Through Herb’s translating I formally greet the congregation then offer our thanks for allowing us to take their pictures while we visit their villages. I tell them the pictures are important to us as when we return home we share these with our church friends and pray for those in the photographs. Then I present photographs of our community to the pastors and many in the service, stating that these pictures are their brothers and sisters at Asbury who are praying for them. While my words were foreign, the meaning was universal and many held the photographs close to their hearts to show their appreciation. During the recessional, at the auction, while eating, and while playing in the yard, villagers carefully hold up the photographs as we exchange waves and smiles.
”
“wisdom.” Leonard understood the joke and enjoyed it even more when I rubbed Semkoko’s jet-black hair and stated, “Not yet!” The joyful banter between the two Tanzanians was good to hear but also short-lived as it was time for us to leave for the seminary. Leonard took my arm, shook his head, and sadly said my name several times. He slowly led us through the village and back to the highway to ensure we were on the right bus. Shaking his hand and hugging him good-bye was all that was possible, but it was not enough. I hope he knows what a wonderful shepherd he is. Please forgive the self-indulgence of this article. Tonya, Marilene, Scott, Mike, and Earl all have rich and important experiences to share. For those of you who have not personally been to Tanzania or talked with a long- or short-term missionary, reach out and ask one of us about our experiences. Examine our faces as we mentally stumble through the variety of stories we can share. Watch as we begin to glow while our minds transport us back to our friends across the world. Rejoice as you see our eyes fill with tears of joy and sadness for our distant Christian families. Be patient as we burst forth in lengthy and disorganized responses. For as you verbally meet our Christian friends, you, too, will be carried on the wings of angels and held closely in the arms of God.
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A Good Marriage: PAYING IT FORWARD - Why we serve as a support couple
S
itting across the table from these starry-eyed, idealistic young people triggered a déjà vu moment. Nearly four decades ago, this could have—and should have—been us.We were two naïve, infatuated college students determined to be married. But, unlike this couple, we were mindlessly unprepared for the road ahead. If God brought us together, nothing could come between us, right? Today, 38 years, four children, three daughters-in-law, two grandchildren, and countless dogs, jobs, and memories later, we come to the table with a very different perspective of this thing called “marriage.” Couple-toCouple Marriage Preparation was designed for people just like us. Today, when we meet with couples who have pledged to be married, we make a pledge as well: to equip them with every possible tool to make theirs a lasting, loving union. Couple-to-Couple has designed a curriculum to help us do just that. The introduction to our couples’ workbook is called “Picking Is Paramount.” We would assert that preparation is paramount. What happens when that adoring couple realizes that neither intends to do laundry, or one sleeps with a nightlight and the other needs pitchblack, or one confronts issues head-on while the other clams up? Somehow that stranger on the other pillow doesn’t look nearly as attractive at 6 a.m. as she did coming down the aisle in a white gown. Had they been through Couple-to-Couple, they would have been better prepared for the occasional disillusionment. Our job as a support couple is to reduce the postwedding surprises and increase realistic expectations. In other words, we help engaged couples understand what they’re getting into when they say “I do.” Then we give them a “tool kit” to build a strong and healthy marriage. What kind of tools are in that kit? One of our favorites is communication—helping couples learn to talk openly to one another and (especially) to listen. Support couples facilitate discussion about all kinds of topics couples may not have considered—personal styles, friends and in-laws, sexual expectations, and spiritual beliefs. A surprising number of couples have never discussed a budget, yet they are weeks away from a legal partnership. Couple-to-Couple to the rescue! ` Through a series of relaxed sessions in the comfort Page 22
by Phil and Jan Odom
of our living room, we talk, laugh, cry, and pray our way through every topic imaginable. Never do we consider ourselves counselors nor pretend to know all the answers, but there’s a lot to be said for walking down the road with someone who has been there. Neither do we preach nor judge. Instead, we try to model through example what a healthy marriage looks like. Our lives are evidence that long-lasting marriage is achievable and worthwhile, even when the partners aren’t perfect. By sharing stories from our own experience, successes and failures alike, our goal is always to open their eyes to the realities of marriage. A good marriage takes a lot of work, but the payoff is well worth the effort. Why is this preparation for marriage important? Preparation leads to prevention—of unfulfilled dreams, unrealistic expectations, needless arguments, hurt feelings, anger and hostility, broken promises, broken homes, and broken hearts.The world is reeling from a staggering divorce rate. Single parenting is becoming the rule rather than the exception, and our children are suffering. This must be stopped. Broken marriages can be prevented when couples understand and commit to the covenant, enter into it prepared, cling to it through the tough times, and determine to keep it forever. That brings us to the driving purpose behind our involvement in Couple-to-Couple: paying our debt forward. Ours could have been one of those broken marriages. Every marriage is vulnerable. Were it not for the grace of God, our praying parents, supportive family, strong church home, and sheer determination, we could have been a statistic. Today, with humble hearts, we thank our heavenly Father for being the center of our home. Our offering to Him is service to Asbury’s Couple-to-Couple ministry. We do it for every person who has ever sown into our marriage or into our children’s lives.We do it for our pastors and staff. For the marriages, the children, and the nation of tomorrow, we pay it forward. Couple-to-Couple exists because we believe in God’s plan for marriage. Preserving that pact takes preparation. Won’t you consider joining this team of imperfect, but enthusiastic support couples of all ages?Together, we will help engaged couples prepare for a marriage that lasts a lifetime and glorifies God.Training for new volunteers begins in February. Contact cgiles@asburytulsa.org.
Grown locally
- AREA MISSIONS AND OUTREACH PRIMED FOR 2011 by Radhika Mittapalli
U
nder the name of Local Outreach, our leadership team is forging into the New Year with renewed focus. Our hope is to mobilize an even greater number of Asbury volunteers than ever before. Our Local Outreach Board of Directors for AUMC consists of the following members: Steve Zenthoefer (chairman), Emily Curzon, Clarence Zitterkob, Mary Pittman, Jack Crissup, Jamie Schaffitzel, Delise Tomlinson, Mark Springer, and Betty Higgins. The Local Outreach Board will be working in conjunction with four distinct working groups: Volunteer Opportunities, Communication Connection, Leadership Equipping, and Financial Partnerships. We are currently recruiting six to eight people to serve in each of these task-oriented teams. If you are passionate about local missions, and have time and willingness to serve the church, please consider getting involved in this capacity. Did you know that Local Outreach at Asbury is currently partnered (both financially and volunteerwise) with over 20 different nonprofit organizations? Our partnership focus is to work alongside those with a development mind-set.
What does “development” mean exactly? According to authors Corbett & Fikkert of the renowned book on poverty alleviation, When Helping Hurts, development is an empowering process: a process of ongoing change that is moving people closer to being in right relationship with God, with themselves, with others, and with nature. Development isn’t done to people or for people but with people.” Our mission in Tulsa and all throughout Oklahoma will be increasingly to serve the undeserved in relational, longer-term ways.We believe that a natural by-product of this will be our own transformation, individuals and families of Asbury who serve others, causing us to mature as servant-hearted disciples of Jesus Christ. We look forward to a dynamic 2011 in local missions through Asbury. As John 4:35 says: “Do you not say, ‘Four months more and then the harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.” Join the movement! Together, we will reap a harvest like never before for His Kingdom! If you would like more information on any of the above, please call Radhika Mittapalli at ext 2116 or e-mail, rmittapalli@asburytulsa.org.
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asbury
opportunities GENERAL INFORMATION
BREAKFAST Served from 7:15-9:00 am in the CLC. Come enjoy fellowship with Asburians along with fresh donuts, bagels, biscuits & gravy, sausage, eggs, fruit, and cereal. $3 for adults & $1 for children 12 & under. Volunteer cashiers needed. Call Joan at 918.392-1176.
THE GAZEBO IS OPEN CDs of Tom’s message of the day are available immediately following the worship service - $3 Prayer Journals are also available for $5 each. Additional volunteers needed. RECYCLING Recycle unwanted paper products. Three bins are available, located in the south and east parking lots. DOORS OF ASBURY POSTERS are at the Welcome Centers...FREE! Suitable for framing. NEW ADDITIONS TO THE LIBRARY The Asbury Library is a wonderful resource. Thank you to all who continue to contribute books to our Library.
SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP 8:00 am Mason Chapel (Traditional Communion) 9:15 am Sanctuary (Contemporary) 9:15 am CLC (Open House Worship) (Acoustic Worship, Casual Setting) 11:00 am Sanctuary (Traditional) 11:00 am Venue 68 (Modern with sign interpreter) SUNDAY EVENING WORSHIP 6:00 pm Venue 68 (Modern)
TOASTMASTERS Toastmasters is a learn-by-doing workshop in which participants hone their speaking and leadership skills in a friendly atmosphere. Members learn communication skills by performing a series of 10 self-paced speaking assignments designed to instill a basic foundation in public speaking. Members also learn leadership skills by taking on various meeting roles. Every Monday that the church is open, 11:45 am – 12:45 pm, Room 2820
SUNDAYS FOR CHILDREN & STUDENTS 6 Weeks - 4 Years 8:00,9:15,and 11:00 am K-6th Grades 9:15 or 11:00 am 7th, 8th & 9th Grades 9:15 & 11:00 am 10th, 11th & 12th Grades 9:15 am only
ACCESS
ADULT DISCIPLESHIP COMMUNITIES Adult Bible study, belonging, and serving together Sunday at 8:00, 9:15, & 11:00 am, and options during the week – Tuesdays at 6:00 pm, Wednesdays at 6 and 7:30 pm. Annual Community Leadership Training Conference will be Sunday, January 30 right after church at 12:30 p.m., starting with a lunch provided by Virginia followed by breakout workshops. SURGERY OR HOSPITALIZATION SCHEDULED? Be sure to let Asbury know ahead of time by calling Joan at 918.392.1176 so your pastors can be in prayer for you. When you enter the hospital, please designate Asbury as your church. The after-hours pastoral emergency line can be reached by calling 918.492.1771, selecting option 6, and leaving a message for the pastor on call. ENGAGED COUPLES If you are planning to use an Asbury pastor to officiate and/or use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to book ASAP to allow ample time for Couple-to-Couple (required premarital sessions).
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HANDS OF LOVE SIGN CHOIR Sundays, 6:00-7:00 pm, Rm. 2821 FRIENDS IN CHRIST COMMUNITY Sundays, 11:00 am, Rm. 1507
BIBLE STUDY
Check out the Winter 2011 RoadMap courses in the brochure located at Connection Corner and Welcome Centers, on the Asbury website at www.asburytulsa.org. Accept Pastor Tom’s challenge to get actively involved in digging deeper into God’s Word ~ there is something for everyone! RoadMap registration can be done via the Registration Hotline 918.392.1191. There will also be a chance to get your book and pay for the course(s) of your choice on Sunday, Jan.2 in the Venue 68 N. Lobby and Sunday, Jan. 9 in the Main Building W. Lobby before and between worship services.
CARE AND SUPPORT
GRIEFSHARE 13 Thursdays, January 6 – March 31, 1 – 2:30 pm, Room 2314. GriefShare is a special weekly video series and support group for people who are grieving the death of someone close to them. It’s a safe place to be around people who understand what you are feeling. At GriefShare, you’ll learn valuable information about recovering from your grief and renewing your hope for the future. Group sessions are offered three times per year. You may begin attending this group at any time...each video session is “self-contained.” $13 for workbook. Call 918.392.1191 to register.
CHANGEYOUR BRAIN, CHANGEYOUR LIFE 4 Thursdays, January 13 – February 3, 2011, 7-8:30pm, room 2201. Anxious or depressed? Neuroscience now reinforces what we’ve always known. An important part of dealing with these most common issues is our willingness to retrain our brain through positive thought, prayer and faith. Come find out how these and other effective brain exercises can change your life. Facilitator: Maribeth Blunt, MHR, LPC. Call 918.392.1191 to register. SEXUAL ABUSE RECOVERY 13 Thursdays, January 20 – April 21, 2011 (will not meet 3/17), 6:30 – 9pm,Venue 68Yellow room. Sexual abuse doesn’t just affect us as children – the ripples spread throughout our lifetime. But there is hope! If you’d like to be a part of a small group this January that’s committed to recovery, healing, and a life of freedom, call 918.392.1134 to sign up. All calls confidential. REINVENTING YOUR LIFE 4 Thursdays, February 17 – March 10, 7:00 – 8:30 pm, room 2201. Sometimes life throws us a curve ball, or we turn a corner and have to completely reinvent our lives. It can be a blessing in disguise! Come learn a logical, proven method of finding new purpose and reinventing your life in a way that makes it even happier and more fulfilling than ever. Facilitators: Maribeth Blunt, MHR, LPC and Melissa Rutherford, Life Coach. Call 918.392.1191 to register. S.M.I.L.E. (SINGLE MOTHERS IN THE LORD’S EMBRACE) A ministry that seeks to strengthen, empower, and support single moms while providing emotional and spiritual encouragement; a place to belong, be loved, and accepted; allowing ‘me’ time with free childcare. An opportunity for single moms to walk with others through this challenging journey knowing they are not alone. Meets third Thursdays, 6:00-8:45 pm in the Parlor. Contact Mary-Margaret at 918.808.0981. RSVP to Kellie at austin.kellie@ymail.com. Childcare and free time included! HEALING HATS MINISTRY An Asbury ministry created to provide hats to cancer patients who have lost their hair. Home spun with knots of love, woven together with help from above! Simply knit, crochet or sew a hat of your choice and drop it in the collection box located next to the Gazebo. Find more information in the literature rack attached to the collection box. Contact Sue at 918.455.2816 or HealingHatsMin@aol.com for more information. VISITS TO ASBURY MEMBERS Asbury has a group of volunteers (Asbury Connection) who regularly visit people who are homebound, in nursing homes or in assisted living facilities. If you are interested in being visited or doing visits, call Adrena at 918.392.1144, or contact the coordinator, Abby Sluice at 918.392.4583 or asluice@asburytulsa.org.
PRAYER CARD SENDING TEAM – CARD DESIGNERS NEEDED Usually meets first and third Mondays at 10 am in Room 1508 to send cards with God’s encouraging words and our prayers to those who are ill or going through hard times. Cards and care packages are also sent to Asburyrelated military personnel. Contact Gwen Mohler at 918.258.5479 or GRMOHLER@aol.com for more information. MILITARY CONNECTION Please join us in praying for our troops in harm’s way and their families. Periodic care packages and monthly encouragement cards with God’s Word are sent to Asbury-related military personnel. The Prayer Ministry also covers them in prayer. Please call Jo VanDeWiele at 918.459.0888 with complete name and address or send to Gwen at grmohler@aol.com. ASPERGER SUPPORT GROUP First Thursday from 7:00-9:00 pm in Rm 1506. For mothers of children with Asperger Syndrome. Childcare available. ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP Third Thursday, from 1:30-3:00 pm in Rm 1621. Christian hope, support and education for friends and family of those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia. SURVIVORS! Second Sunday of each month, 4:00-5:30 pm, Parlor Reaching out to one another with God’s eternal perspective through the storms of life. For those living with life-changing physical illness. Friends and family too. Contact Rod at 918.740.4393. DIVORCE RECOVERY Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1335 - For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma. Childcare available. DIVORCE REBUILDING Thursdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1335 - For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce. Childcare available. EATING DISORDER RECOVERY First and third Wednesdays, 12:00-1:30 pm, Room 1621 - For individuals seeking support in the recovery process. Bring sack lunch. GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN First and third Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 pm, Rm 1506. MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES For family members or caregivers of people affected by a mental illness. 4th Thursdays from 1:30 - 3:00 pm in Rm 1507. No meetings in December.
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ASBURY BEAR BAGS Asbury Bear Bags with coloring books have comforted young children for many years, but now you may give a Bear Bag with a scripture-based journal included instead! Great for teens and adults. Anyone may deliver an Asbury Bear to someone who is grieving. For more information, contact Sue at suemorey@yahoo.com.
CHILDREN
Registration forms for all children’s activities are available in the preschool and elementary lobbies. CORE CHILDCARE HOURS Parents who are involved in RoadMap classes during these core hours will have childcare provided for children 6 weeks - 12 years of age with no reservations needed: Sun Mon & Tue Tue, Wed, & Thur
8:00 am - 12:00 pm 9:00 am - 12:00 pm 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
SUNDAY MORNING VOLUNTEERS Children’s Ministry has several openings for room volunteers and security volunteers.We have openings on the Alpha (1st and 2nd Sunday) and the Omega (3rd and 4th Sunday) at both the 9:15 and 11:00 class times. Please contact Marcia Culver at 918.392.4585 or mculver@asburytulsa.org for more information and to volunteer. MURDOCK VILLA VISITS January 23rd, 12 – 3:30pm. Our 5th and 6th graders have the opportunity to serve at an assisted living housing project - Murdock Villa. The $5 fee includes the cost of a pizza lunch. Sign up is required since space is limited to the 1st 10 student. If you have additional questions, please contact Joanna Edwards at 918.392.1166 or jedwards@asburytulsa.org. 5TH & 6TH GRADE BIBLE STUDY Wednesdays, January 12th – April 27th- 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Cost $10 for workbook. On Wednesday nights our 5th & 6th graders will be working from “How to Study your Bible for Kids” by Kay Arthur. Discover for yourself what God’s Word says. You’ll sharpen your skills so that at you can know what the Bible says, understand what it means, and apply it to your life all on your own.Your early registration helps us have the correct number of study books. If you have any additional questions, please contact Joanna Edwards at 918.392.1166 or jedwards@ asburytulsa.org WEDNESDAY NIGHT LIVE Wednesday s, January 12 – April 27, 7-8pm, in the Chapel. Join us on Wednesday nights for worship in the Chapel—Kid Style. We will combine music, high energy, verse memory and a Bible lesson in a setting Page 26
that encourages kids to learn about worship. Our lessons will tie right into what we are doing on Sunday mornings. You may pick up a registration form in the Children’s Ministry area. For more information contact the age appropriate staff member: Kindergarten- Amber at 918.392.1171, Shannon at 918.392.1170, or 3rd – 5th grade-Jennifer at 918.392.4582. KAMP KINDERGARTEN March 4, 6 – 8:00 pm, $5. Come join us for an awesome adventure at Kamp Kindergarten! This is a special event for our kindergarteners and a parent to explore and discover the many places or our wonderful church! We will have a scavenger hunt with clues about God, crafts, and activities along the way! We will meet in the kindergarten room and receive the first clue. We will end our evening with an ice cream sundae dessert and words from Ms Shawn. Registration by February 24th will help us plan out purchases of supplies. For more information contact Shanon Brown at 918-392-1170 or sbrown@asburytulsa.org 5TH & 6TH GRADE FAMILY RETREAT Friday, March 25th at 5-6pm to Saturday, March 26th 5pm departure, Cost $85/family of 2, Heart O’ Hills Camp, Tahlequah. We are so excited about our upcoming 5.6 family camp! This event will be for a 5th or 6th grade boy or girl and one parent. You will need to arrive at Heart O’ Hills camp (about 1 ½ hours from Tulsa) no later than 6pm Friday night for dinner. There will be separate indoor male and female cabins. Saturday, we’ll have lots of family time activities planned including sports, crafts and nature walks along with breakfast, lunch and worship in the awesome outdoor chapel. Please pick up a registration form for more details about this great event. There are a limited number of beds, so be sure to register soon! The registration deadline is Monday, February 14th. For more information you may contact Amber Cox at 918-392-1171 or acox@asburytulsa.org
DISCIPLESHIP
DISCIPLESHIP COMMUNITIES If you have not yet found an Adult Discipleship Community check out “Get Involved” on our website, www.asburytulsa.org or pick up a brochure at one of our Welcome Centers. Looking for a Home-Based Small group? Email JOdom@asburytulsa.org for more information.
ENDOWMENTS
Leave a legacy that continues to give forever to a ministry you want to support. There are endowments that support many areas of Asbury’s outreach including children, youth, music, missions, and training of pastors as well as a General endowment. You can easily impact a ministry thru your will or a current gift. Contact Dwight Yoder at 918.392.1113 or dyoder@asburytulsa.org.
HOSPITALITY
It’s the art of welcoming and treasuring people. It is extending the grace and welcome of God to all people. While we all should be extending this welcome and grace, there are specific positions within Asbury where we need volunteers willing to commit to serving once or twice a month. These positions include shuttle drivers, Gazebo cashiers, Connection Corner consultants, greeters and ushers. To volunteer, Call Joan at 918.392.1176
MARRIAGE & FAMILY
GOD-BLESSED MARRIAGE 8 Wednesdays, January 12 – March 2, 6 – 8:15 pm, room 2201. This class biblically explores eight ingredients in a God-Blessed Marriage – respect, commitment, trust, support, relational intimacy, spiritual intimacy, sexual intimacy, and agape love. Each person identifies what needs improving, designs a pathway for improvement, and through the class’ interaction, discovers a God-Blessed Marriage. Limited to first ten couples who register by December 15 by calling 918.392.1191. 10 GREAT DATES WITH YOUR MATE 2nd Tuesdays, February 8 – November 8, 6:15 – 7:00 pm, Room 1502. Gather to hear a variety of topics led by various speakers (30 minutes), then have dinner out. NEW TOPICS/SPEAKERS! Call 918.392.1191 to register. 50+ WEDDING ANNIVERSARY RECOGNITION Tom Harrison will recognize member couples married 50 or more years on Sunday, February 13 in the 11:00 service. If you have not been previously recognized, contact Ruth at 918.392.1146. Corsage delivery teams also needed. To help, contact Scott Brown at sbrown@us.ibm.com. DYNAMIC MARRIAGE Give us 9 weeks…we’ll give you a dynamic marriage! This is an interactive class that will help you replace old habits with new ones in a unique, safe environment. Go from good to great, mediocre to magnificent or hurt to healed. Cost: $130/couple (many materials included, scholarships available) $50 holds your spot. To register, contact Jackie or Ron at 918.251.6665 or asburydynamicmarriage@ windstream.net. Limited to first 12 paid couples in each class. Childcare available. Next class on Wednesdays, March 23-May 18. ATTENTION ENGAGED COUPLES If you are planning to use an Asbury pastor to officiate and/or use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to book ASAP to allow ample time for Couple-to-Couple (required premarital sessions).
MILESTONE WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Email your upcoming Milestone Anniversary (5, 10, 15, 20, etc.) to Carolyn Schutte at brucars2@cox.net or call her at 918.451.1559.
MEMBERSHIP
ASBURY EXPLORATION Come to a lunch/class to learn more about becoming a member of Asbury. Sunday, January 9, from 12:15-2:00 pm in Community Life Center. Lunch provided and childcare is available for children six weeks through 6th grade. Call 918.392.1191 to register.
MEN
MEN’S PRAYER BREAKFAST Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 am in the CLC. Attention men of Asbury. Make plans to join us for a great time of meaningful worship,life-changing prayer and an awesome big breakfast, all for just $3 per person. First-time guests are free. MEN’S OPEN BASKETBALL Fridays, 11:30 am – 1:15 pm, Gym. Men! Make plans to join other Asbury guys and their friends each week as we get together for a little “round ball” and lots of fun! Come show us what you’ve got, and we’ll have a great time of exercise and fellowship. Invite your friends, and we’ll see you on the court! MATURE MEN’S MINISTRY R.O.M.E.O. LUNCHEON Are you a “Retired Old Man” who wants to “Eat Out?” If so, then these luncheons are for you! A really awesome bunch of guys are meeting every 2nd & 4th Friday at 11:15 am, for good food and great fellowship. They take place at Village Inn (71st and Memorial), and are open to anyone 60 years and up. For more information, contact Bud at bdmathes@cox.net or Jim at rober@cox.net “FATHERED BY GOD” MEN’S BIBLE STUDY Wednesdays, January 12 – April 27, 6 – 8 pm, Room 2818. Join with other Brothers in Christ as we study the biblical and practical ways men of faith have enriched their lives through relating cross-generationally for their benefit, and for the benefit of the Kingdom of God. This video series will be facilitated by Greg Ruley. RAISING A MODERN-DAY KNIGHT Wednesdays, January 12 – February 23, 6 – 8 pm, Room 2500, $17. This six-part video series hosted by bestselling author/speaker/pastor Robert Lewis, is designed to help concerned dads understand the critical issues they must face in order to be an effective, strategic father as they lead their sons on this great adventure call authentic manhood. The study provides an overall fatherhood game plan, including what your son needs to see, receive, experience and hear each year of his life, from ages 1 to 21.
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BOY SCOUT SPAGHETTI UNCHEON BENEFIT Sunday, February 20, 11:30 – 2:00 pm, CLC. The Asbury Boy Scout Foundation, sponsored by the men’s ministry, would like to invite you to its 5th Annual Spaghetti Luncheon Social! Come celebrate Scout Sunday with the scouts, and enjoy a generous serving of spaghetti, bread and salad with your family and friends. The cost is just $4 per person, or $16 maximum per immediate family. Tickets may be purchased Sunday, February 13, from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm or the day of the event at the door. However, pre-purchasing is appreciated to help with planning! All proceeds will benefit the Boy Scouting programs of Asbury. ANNUAL MEN’S RETREAT Friday & Saturday, March 4 & 5, 2011, Men! Mark your calendars and watch Asbury publications for details! HOME IMPROVEMENT WORK DAYS Saturday, February 19, meet in the CLC at 8:30-9:30 am for planning. The Home Improvement Ministry serves widows and single moms within the Asbury family. Our men’s ministry volunteers make themselves available every other month to help folks out with minor home repairs and/or home improvement projects. If you’d like to help, contact Michiel at michiel0930@sbcglobal. net. If you are in need of help, just pick up a request form at the south welcome desk, or call your request in to Pam Wallace (392-4589), at least ten days before the scheduled work day. A Home Improvement volunteer will contact you, and make final arrangements to get the job(s) done! CAR CARE WORKDAY Saturday, March 12, 9:00 am – 12:00 noon, Outside Breakaway entrance, northeast side. Car Care Saturday is an every-other-month workday provided for Asbury’s widows and single moms, through our men’s ministry. While the ladies wait in the comfort of the café, volunteers check tires, belts, fluids, filters and batteries. They also vacuum and wash the vehicles, and then update owners on what’s running smoothly and what needs professional attention. This free service gives our men the opportunity to put their faith in to action through loving and serving those in need. If you would like to volunteer to help, contact Mike at mnalley16@cox.net. If you are in need of these services, just get your vehicle in line by 11:30! No reservations necessary!
MISSIONS
2ND SATURDAY Looking for an easy way to make a difference and share Christ’s love in Tulsa! Join us this 2nd Saturday, January 8, at 8:30 am at Venue68 and choose between local mission opportunities. At 8:45 we head to the ministry sites. Teams work from 9:00-11:30 am and buses return to Venue68 no later than 12:15. Families with children welcomed and encouraged! Contact Betty Higgins at carevets@aol.com for more information. Page 28
RÉSUMÉ ASSISTANCE AND REVIEW Do you have an effective résumé? An extra set of eyes can make a difference. E-mail your résumé to employ. transitions@yahoo.com. OJT (OVERCOMING JOB TRANSITIONS) Invite people you know dealing with job issues to OJT! We offer encouragement, prayer support and handson workshops helping with résumés, networking, interviewing, the internet and more.The group meets the third Tuesday of each month from 6:30 - 9:00 pm in the Family Room.Contact Russ Knight at OJTjobs@gmail.com. CAPE TOWN 2010 – IMPLICATIONS FOR THE FUTURE Hear of the power of God moving around the world from first-hand stories at the Lausanne Congress. Hear insights of issues facing the world and the church, and our role in addressing these issues. The class will be led by Mary Ann Smith on Wednesdays, January 19 & 26 from 6-8 pm in room 1335. PERSPECTIVES ON THE WORLD CHRISTIAN MOVEMENT See the world like Jesus does. Dive into God’s Word and the story of His work on the earth. People across the country and around the world have experienced the Perspectives course and have had their eyes opened to God’s purpose for their lives. In 15 lessons, you’ll engage with a range of dynamic speakers brought to Tulsa from across the country to speak on their areas of expertise. Weekly readings and study help you dig even deeper. The course covers the Biblical basis, history, cultural aspects, and strategic developments of the Christian movement. The course will be at Asbury on Tuesdays, January 11-May 3 from 9:30 am12:30pm. Classes are also offered on Mondays from 6:309:30 pm at Tulsa Bible Church,Tuesdays from 6:30-9:30 pm at University of Tulsa BCM and Wednesdays from 6:30-9:30 pm at Rejoice Church North Campus in Owasso. Cost: $250. For more information, contact Melanie Burdick at 918.493.2420 or kevandmelburdick@sbcglobal.net or Mary Ann Smith at 918.392.1117 or masmith@asburytulsa. org or www.perspectives.org.
MISSIONS/VIM
VOLUNTEERS IN MISSION 2011 OPPORTUNITIES February 26-March 5 Monterrey, Mexico, MBS & Construction April 8-10 Cookson Hills, Oklahoma, Light Construction Late April-Early May Central Asia, Relationship, Teaching & Light Construction June 2-13 Estonia, Lighthouse June 3-12 Ecuador, MBS & Construction
June 15-27 Tanzania, East Africa, Medical June 23-July 4 Estonia, Camp Gideon,Youth Camp
service, please come to the altar rail. A pastor or member of the Altar Prayer Team will be glad to pray with you for your needs – physical, emotional or spiritual - at the altar or in the Prayer Room.
September Tanzania, East Africa, Construction
PRAYER ROOM RESERVATIONS The leadership of Asbury’s prayer ministry would like to remind you that the main facility Prayer Room is open not only to individuals desiring to pray in a quiet, meditative atmosphere, but also to prayer groups within communities and ministries. Just give Pam in the Adult Ministries office a call at 918.392. 4589 to reserve the Prayer Room for your group on a weekly or monthly basis.
September 30-October 2 Cookson Hills, Oklahoma, Light Construction
PRAYER ROOM DAYS & TIMES Our prayer rooms are accessible to you at these times:
Early October Central Asia, Relationship, Teaching & Light Construction
Mason Chapel & Venue 68 Sundays from 7:00 am - 12:30 pm through the interior doors.
October 15-22* Monterrey, Mexico, MBS & Construction
Main Facility, Mason Chapel, & Venue 68 Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Saturday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Sunday 12:30 pm - 9:00 pm To obtain pass codes, call Pam in the Adult Ministries office at 918.392.4589.
July 21-August 1 Estonia, Parnu, MBS & Light Construction Mid-late Summer Central Asia, College Students
November 2-6 Monterrey, Mexico, Medical * Tentative VIM TEAM LEADER TRAINING March 5, September 17, or November 5 (All training dates are in Oklahoma City.) For more information about these exciting mission opportunities, contact Marilene Long at 918.392.1164 or mlong@asburytulsa.org.
RECOVERY
For information about the men’s Rio Bravo, Mexico opportunities,contact DubAmbrose at 918.492.1771.
SENIOR ADULTS
We also plan domestic teams in response to needs due to natural disasters.
MUSIC
Chancel Choir Wednesdays, 7:00 – 9:00 pm, Choir room New Covenant Orchestra Wednesdays, 6:00-7:30 pm, Orchestra room Children’s Choirs Wednesdays, 6:00-6:50 pm,Various rooms Perpetual Light Thursdays, 10:30 -12 noon, Handbell room Celebration Ringers Tuesdays, 4:30- 5:30 pm, Handbell room Asbury Power & Light Co. Sundays, 8 to 9:15 am, Orchestra room Asbury Youth Orchestra Wednesdays, 5:30-6:15 pm, Orchestra Room Asbury Singing Ambassadors Tuesdays, 1:30- 3:00 pm, Choir Room
PRAYER
ALTAR PRAYER If you would like someone to pray with you during Holy Communion or immediately following a worship
CELEBRATE RECOVERY Come join this supportive group of people each Monday night at 6:00 pm. Dinner at 6:00 pm;Worship from 7:008:00 pm; Small Groups from 8:00-9:00 pm; Dessert from 9:00-9:30 pm. Hiding any hurts, habits or hang-ups? God never intended for you to live in bondage. VISITS TO ASBURY MEMBERS Asbury has a unique group of volunteers (Asbury Connection) who regularly visit people who are either homebound or in nursing homes. If you are interested in being visited, call Adrena at 918.392.1144, or contact the coordinator, Abby Sluice at ozyanks2000@yahoo.com. SENIOR SIT AND FIT STRETCHING CLASS Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00-9:30 am in the Gym. All senior adults are invited to join us for a time of stretching, coupled with lots of fun and fellowship. No high impact workout here. We take it nice and easy. Come give it a try. SENIOR WALK IN THE GYM WITH HIM Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:30-9:00 am in the gym. All senior adults are invited to join us for power walking, coupled with lots of fun and fellowship. Come give it a try. SENIOR GAME TIME Every second Thursday – 1:30 – 4:00 pm Attention Asbury Senior Adults! How would you like to get together on a regular basis with a wonderful bunch of folks and play a few rounds of cards, dominoes, or whatever board or card game you chose? You KNOW you’d love it! If you’re a senior adult age 55 and up, come check it out in Room 2820. Bring a friend and stay for as long as you like! Page 29
SENIOR ADULT MEAL & MOVIE Attention all senior adults of Asbury! If you’re 55 years of age or over, our monthly meal and movie day event may be just the “ticket” for you! We get together at a different Tulsa restaurant each month, and then head off to see a “first run” movie. The dates and times vary according to the movie selected, but those who express an interest will be contacted a few days ahead of time so they can make plans accordingly. For more information or to sign up for the call list, contact Sally Wood, sally-wood@sbcglobal.net.
Hurts God Heals is all about. Every Wednesday night 5-7 pm in the Venue, 7-12th grade welcome anytime contact Marsha for details 918.392.1157. or come learn about God in 789 Bible Study every Wednesday 6:30-8pm!
TWEENAGERS PROGRAM & LUNCHEON Everyone aged 55 and up is welcome to join us for our monthly Tweenagers meeting & luncheon, taking place on Thursday, January 27, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in the CLC. Our program will be presented by Barry Fugate, Director of Horticulture at the Tulsa Garden Center and the Linneaus Teaching Center. You don’t want to miss this program, and don’t forget to invite your friends! Call the main office at 918.492.1771 to make your reservations BY NOON, Monday, January 24. If, during that week, you find you need to cancel, please also let us know as we need to give an accurate count to the cooks. Should you choose, you may make a donation for the meal when you check in that morning. Come join us for fun and fellowship!
7TH & 8TH SBM PAYMENT DUE January 23, Houston payment of $150 due and Red Bird payment of $175 due (all checks made to Asbury.
SINGLES
DIVORCE RECOVERY Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1335 - For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma. Childcare available. DIVORCE REBUILDING Thursdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1335 - For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce. Childcare available. SINGLES MINISTRY POTLUCK FELLOWSHIP Sunday, January 30, 12:15-1:30 pm, Parlor. Come, bring your children and enjoy a delicious lunch, courtesy of your fellow singles! Just bring a “Familysized” food item, homemade or purchased! Great food, great fellowship, new friends… it just doesn’t get much better than that!
STUDENTS
789 GRADE BREAKAWAY Sunday mornings, 9:15-10:30 am in the Breakaway Area. This isn’t your normal Sunday school. Come join us for worship, fun and games, interactive talk/ lesson, and sometimes free candy and gift cards. LHGH AND 789 BIBLE STUDY Life is crazy hard and everyone needs a safe place to get real and deal with it! that is exactly what Life Page 30
NO 789 SMALL GROUPS ON JANUARY 3 7TH & 8TH GRADERS TO 2ND SATURDAY All 7th & 8th grade small groups will be attending 2nd Saturday together, please meet at the Venue at 8 am, groups will return by noon. no small groups on Sunday, January 9.
7TH GRADE CONFIRMATION PARENT MEETING If your 7th grader is going through the Confirmation program don’t miss this mandatory meeting January 23, 4:45 – 6pm in the Venue. PARENTING SEMINAR: THE FOUR PARENTING STYLES There are four different parenting styles. Three don’t work, one does. Find out which one is the best for your teen. Upstairs in the Venue Blue classroom, and parent welcome, January 23, 9:15am or 11am. RED BIRD LEADERS MEETING If you are a leader on the Red Bird Spring Break Mission trip don’t miss this mandatory meeting. Meet in the Venue after church 12:15 – 2pm, lunch will be served! 8TH GRADE SG KICKBALL/DODGEBALL All the 8th grade girls groups will be playing one big kickball tournament!! Meet in the gym ready to play, January 30, 3:30-5:30 pm. The guys groups will play dodge ball in the Venue from 6:30-8pm. 101112 BREAKAWAY Every Wednesday night we come together for a time of connection and worship. Our desire is to explore who God really is and how our lives matter to Him. We get started around 6:30 pm and wrap up around 8:30ish. Plan on hanging out afterwards for pizza. 101112 GRADE SMALL GROUPS Get Connected – Are you looking for a way to get more connected? Are you looking for a place to grow in your walk with Jesus? Then being a part of a small group is where you need to be. If you are already in a small group, don’t forget to re-sign up for your group. Our small groups meet every Sunday night, times vary. Some of the groups meet in homes and others meet at the church. Call Todd @ 918.392.1154 or Amy @ 918.392.1156 to get more info. 7TH-12TH GRADE METRO WORSHIP @ VENUE 68 Come join youth from all over the city in a night to just worship Jesus. We meet the first Wednesday night of
SPRING BREAK MISSIONS PAYMENT DUE January 23rd – Spring Break Missions Payment due: Jamaica & Guatemala $300. You must have $700 in your account in order to put your name on a plane ticket. 101112 PARENT MEETING January 30th – 9th grade parent meeting at 9:15 & 11 upstairs Breakaway area at Venue 68 11TH & 12TH GRADE SEMINAR January 30th – Seminar for juniors and seniors in high school and their parents – “From the Youth Room to the Dorm Room” 6pm Breakaway area at Venue 68
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
GET PLUGGED IN! Volunteer opportunities have been updated and can be found at the information desks near the main entrances and Venue68. Updates are also posted on the website. There is a link in the left column on the home page. SUPER CARE SUNDAY FOOD DRIVE The annual Super Sunday Food Drive for Restore Hope will take place on Sunday, February 6, 2011. Teams will be organized in early January for the collection tables, assisting at the truck, and gathering food at Sam’s. Please call or email Joan Henning if you are interested in the planning. 918.392.1176 or jhenning@asburytulsa.org
WOMEN
WOMEN OF THE WORD Wednesdays from 10:00-11:00 am in Rm 2319, Rev. Darlene Johnson, teacher. CRAFTY LADIES FELLOWSHIP Mondays, 9:30 am - 1:00 pm, Rm 2820. Ladies, if you enjoy doing crafts and fellowshipping at the same time, this activity is for you! We gather on Monday mornings to work on our own individual arts and crafts, stop for a delicious pot-luck lunch, and continue on through until 1:00 pm. We have a wonderful time together, and would love to have you join us! For more information, contact Betty Seetin, and stop by some Monday and check us out! JANUARY UMW LUNCHEON & PROGRAM Thursday,January 6,11:30 am – 1:00 pm,CLC.Attention all ladies! The program for January’s luncheon will be a presentation by Walt Whitman Elementary School. Asbury adopted Walt Whitman Elementary in April 2004. There are weekly, bi-weekly or as needed volunteer opportunities. Please contact Barbie Paige if you are interested in begin a volunteer. A delicious luncheon prepared by our Church Hostesses,Virginia & Susan, will be provided for just $7 per person. No reservations are necessary. Our scripture emphasis for this month comes from Matthew 19:14, “But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”
HOME IMPROVEMENT WORK DAYS Saturday, February 19. The Home Improvement Ministry serves widows and single moms within the Asbury family. Our men’s ministry volunteers make themselves available every other month to help folks out with minor home repairs and/or home improvement projects. If you’d like to help, contact Michiel at michiel0930@sbcglobal.net. If you are in need of help, just pick up a request form at the south welcome desk, or call your request in to Pam Wallace (392-4589), at least ten days before the scheduled work day. A Home Improvement volunteer will contact you, and make final arrangements to get the job(s) done! CAR CARE WORKDAY Saturday, March 12, 9:00 am – 12:00 noon, Outside Breakaway entrance, northeast side. Car Care Saturday is an every-other-month workday provided for Asbury’s widows and single moms, through our men’s ministry. While the ladies wait in the comfort of the café, volunteers check tires, belts, fluids, filters and batteries. They also vacuum and wash the vehicles, and then update owners on what’s running smoothly and what needs professional attention. This free service gives our men the opportunity to put their faith in to action through loving and serving those in need. If you would like to volunteer to help, contact Mike at mnalley16@cox.net. If you are in need of these services, just get your vehicle in line by 11:30! No reservations necessary!
WORSHIP
8:00 am Communion Service Mason Chapel.Traditional service with music led by Hart Morris. Communion is served and Dr. Harrison preaches. 9:15 am Contemporary Praise & Worship Sanctuary. Contemporary music led by Mark Bennett and team, time of prayer and the message will all carry a prevailing theme for the morning. Dr. Harrison preaches. 9:15 am Open House Worship Community Life Center. A relaxed atmosphere with engaging worship led by Dub Ambrose and team. Dr. Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast with an occasional live sermon from another pastor. 11:00 am Traditional Service Sanctuary. The Chancel Choir, the New Covenant Orchestra and various vocal and instrumental ensembles offer a variety of styles of music led by Hart Morris. Dr. Tom Harrison preaches. 11:00 am Modern Service Venue 68. Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by Chris Cleveland and team. Sign interpreters for the deaf are offered. Dr.Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast. 6:00 pm Modern Service Venue68. Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by the Ben Kilgore and team. Rev. Spencer Smith preaches. Page 31
MARRIAGES, BIRTHS & DEATHS MARRIAGES: • Sandra Loughlin & Jeff Linnell were married 8-24-2010.
• Sarah Luttenberg & David Area were married 10-30-2010. • Monica Magnuson & Matthew Lima were recently married. BIRTHS: • Peytan Brandlee Herren was born 10-25-2010. Parents are Grady & Tara Herren. • Addison Grace Harwood & Aiden John Harwood were born 10-23-2010. Children of Simon & Elizabeth Harwood, and grandchildren of Gary & Debbie Burchfield. DEATHS: • Frank Nuding – died 11-21-2010, husband of Bonnie Nuding, father of Sandie (Tom) White. • Dean Yeager – died 11-19-2010, husband of Pauline, brother of Gene (Barbara) Yeager. • Ercelyn Reed - died 11-29-2010, mother of Russ Reed.
DECEMBER MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES 65 YEARS • John & Joanna Neely January 6, 1946
• Ted & Virginia Wellendorf January 10, 1946 55 YEARS • Bill & Dottie McKie January 7, 1956 50 YEARS • Tom & Pat Hailey January 14, 1961 30 YEARS • Trent & Terri Baker December 20, 1980 20 YEARS • Chris & Laurie Hendrickson November 24, 1990 Page 32
John & Joanna Neely 65 years - 01/06/46
Ted & Virginia Wellendorf 65 years - 01/10/46
Tom & Pat Hailey 50 years - 01/14/61
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asbury
new members
George Almendares
Doug and Sara Embry
Randy Hamilton
Jeff and Jessica Moorew
Michael and Melissa Turner with Megan and Madison
Dave and Shannon Wilson with Connor
Su Kwang and Min Kyung Won
Ken and Judy Woodhead
asbury exploration classes
if you are interested in learning more about who we are, plan to attend one of the Exploration classes designed to tell you more about Asbury and what we believe.
upcoming Exploration classes
will be held on, January 9, February 6, March 6, and April 3 from 12:15-2:00 pm Please call 392-1191 to reserve your place. Childcare is available and lunch is provided
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Glorify God...Make Disciples Page 35
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www.asburytulsa.org