“Then Samuel took a stone and set it between Mizpah and Shen, and named it Ebenezer, saying, ‘Thus far the Lord has helped us.’” (1 Sam. 7:12) Ebenezer is the Hebrew word meaning “stone of help.” In every journey of life there comes a point when we must remember and recognize God‘s goodness in bringing us “thus far.” This is what Samuel did when he laid this memorial stone. He remembered where the Israelites had journeyed from. He also recognized that it was only by God‘s grace they had come thus far. In his enduring hymn “Come Thou Fount of Many Blessings,” Robert Robinson wrote, “Here I raise mine Ebenezer, hither by Thy help I’m come.” Let us also do the same and express our appreciation and gratitude to God for bringing us thus far. Sola Akala
inside tidings 3-4
This Month at Asbury
5
Notes from the Journey
6 - 25
Milestones and Memories
26 - 31
Calendar of Events
32 - 33
New Members
34 - 35
Family Room
Invite your friends and neighbors...
Asbury’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt Sunday, April 9 2:00-4:00 pm
Looking Back... In our previous campaign, “Building on Faith,” I remember God opening the doors and helping us do something far greater than I would ever have imagined. Five years later, we are at another critical point in the life of Asbury. We have run out of space in our children’s area. What a great problem to have! Some congregations have lost their children and Dr. Tom Harrison students, and as such, have closed their Senior Pastor doors or have become marginal in their community impact. When I think about the opportunity that is before us to build a student ministry in the former “Tulsa Ice Arena,” I am so excited about the opportunity to influence for Christ those who are in their teen years. Statistics say that at least 85% people give their lives to Christ in their childhood or teenager years. These statistics mean that on average,17 out of 20 people sitting next to you in a worship service became followers of Jesus before age of 20. We do not have to fly to get to a “mission field,” it is in our own backyard. The mission field is ripe for harvest. I love to read about history and biography, which has sharpened my understanding of leadership. One thing that certainly emerges from Asbury’s history is our strong leaders, both lay and clergy. Specifically: 1.) Bill Mason always said he never wanted to be a pastor of a church that was not growing. Bill always had his foot on the accelerator, not on the brake. That spirit has built our culture here. 2.) Asbury has always understood that the “Great Commission” of Jesus began with a two-letter word, “Go!” Asbury has always known what we were supposed to be doing, and Asbury has always gotten with it! Our “blessing” is not merely for us; but to be an instrument to reach others for Christ. Asbury has always spent a lot of money and time into mission. 3.) We have always had a focus upon excellence. The history of our church has been that people here do not want to settle for second best. If we were going to do it, we were going to do it right. 4.) We have always had a great reputation for excellence in student ministry. Two ministers, Doug Walker and Dick Read, helped raise the bar years ago. However, others have also been on staff and served as volunteers (Nancy Baxter was our very first youth director) who have carried on (and are to this day) that tradition of reaching students for Christ. When some members assembled our Heritage Book from 19622000, it was a great snapshot of who we have been. They produced an outstanding book! In addition, it documents exactly what I have been saying: Asbury has always stood for excellence. As we enter this critical phase in the life of our church with “Mission Possible,” we do so because of the incredible strength from our past. People sought God with their whole hearts, and God has blessed this congregation in a multitude of ways. We are praying that our past will again be replicated, and that “Mission Possible” will serve to be a source of ministry and mission to the lives of people today, and in the years to come.
photo by Christy Capps
TIDINGS 2
HOLY WEEK at ASBURY Maundy Thursday Communion
MISSION: POSSIBLE You have been selected for a top secret mission. An official document outlining important information about its objectives will be available for you to pick up Sunday, April 9. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to respond!
Thursday, April 13 7:00 pm - Mason Chapel
Service of Darkness Friday, April 14 7:00 pm - Sanctuary
The Chancel Choir and Orchestra present a musical picture of the suffering and death of Jesus Christ, along with meditations by Pastor Tom Harrison.
Easter Sunday April 16
Come Celebrate the Risen Lord!
8:00 am Orchestra and Choir in the Sanctuary
9:15 am Contemporary Worship in the Sanctuary
Special agents assigned to lead you on the mission are: Basil & Gay James, Jeff & Cathy Wilkie, Julie Reynolds, Brian & Tiffany Kiker, John & Stephanie Locher, Drew & Melinda Phillips, Randy & Jonni Segnar; Teresa Springer; Jeremy Burton, Patrick Jackson, Todd Lesikar, Melissa Phenicie, Debbie Wilson, Hugh & Jean Atchison, Ed & Jan Hines, Frank & Cathy Gentry, Tom & Jennifer Sharpe, Steve & Tiffanie Garrett, Bill & Dixie Keeth, Rick & Lila Miller, John & Jennifer Points, Clay & Theresa Smith, Juli Armour, Mike & Wendy Gray, Leonard & Mary Stubbs, Jeff & Kerry Turner, Rev. Mark McAdow, Cheryl Steffen, Beverlyn Summers, Carolyn Yoder, Karl & Mary Alice Ahlgren, Jimmy Bloyed, Lina Holmes, Chris Lo, Lori McKinnon, Lisa Tresch, Sandy Wagner, Jan Weinheimer, Jeff & Tonia Brown, Michele Caine, Joan Henning, Tim & Cathey Carney, Chris & Missy Cooper, Mark Fowler, John Weidman, Rex Alexander, Bill Barnes, Don Davis, Gary VanFossen, Bryan Johnson, Dennis Linscheid, Russ McBroom, Jeff Thomas, Dwight Yoder.
Asbury Brass and Organ Concert
11:00 am Orchestra and Choir in the Sanctuary
Sunday, April 2 at 6:00 pm in the Sanctuary
and Modern Service in the Chapel
Come experience the rich sounds of Asbury’s own musicians! Enjoy an evening of music presented by the Asbury Brass Quintet & Organist Rosanna Corrales
Asbury friends and family enjoying the 2005 Easter Egg Hunt.
Keynote Speaker, Lance Robertson, is a nationally renowned speaker on care-giving and will speak about how to walk through the sunset years with joy.
Breakout session topics include: “The Freedom to Enjoy the Sunset:Financial Planning,” presented by Mark Springer and Randy Cloud, financial planners. Their presentation will cover financially preparing yourself for retirement and for those that are still in the workforce he will address how to make the wisest financial choices so that you will be prepared. “Navigating to the Sunset Years,” presented by Dean DeVore who is with the Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHICP) that is part of the Oklahoma Insurance Department. He will help you understand the changes with Medicare and how to navigate the system. “A Place to Watch the Sunset,” presented by Marca Davis with Woodland Terrace Retirement Community will address the choices and things to consider when looking into Senior Living Options. Lunch will be included and Dr. David Thomas will conclude the workshop. The cost of the workshop is $10. Scholarships are available. Call 3921191 to reserve your place.
Saturday, April 22 6:00 pm Student Cafe & Worship Areas In the spring of 2003, three young Americans from California left in search of a story about war. What they found was a tragedy that disgusted and inspired them. What started out as a trip to document the civil war in Sudan, took a divine turn when the film makers were stranded in Uganda, a country south of Sudan. There they discovered a story of children being kidnapped
nightly from their homes and forced to become child soldiers. The film is dedicated to exposing this amazing and tragic untold story. National Geographic says, “Wow. Explosive material. People will be moved to act.” Your heart will be stirred and your life changed after viewing this film. It’s a call to prayer and beyond. We hope to see you there.
Asbury to Host
Celebrate Recovery Conference The purpose of the Celebrate Recovery ministry is to fellowship and celebrate God’s healing power in lives through the “Eight Recovery Principles.” This experience allows people to “be changed.” By working and applying these biblical principles, they begin to grow spiritually. Men and women become free from addictive, compulsive and dysfunctional behaviors. This freedom creates peace, serenity, joy and most importantly, a stronger personal relationship with God and others. As people progress through the program they discover the personal, loving and forgiving Higher Power -Jesus Christ, the one and only true Higher Power. Asbury will be hosting a oneday Celebrate Recovery Seminar, Saturday, April 29. For conference information and registration, go to celebraterecovery.com. Walk-in registrations are available the day of the event from 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.; however only pre-registered guests are guaranteed seats. Hiding any hurts, habits or hangups? God never intended for you to live in bondage. If you are interested in checking out Celebrate Recovery at Asbury, come any Monday night. Dinner at 6:00 pm Worship from 7:00-8:00 pm Small Groups from 8:00-9:00 pm Dessert from 9:00-9:30 pm. Childcare available.
Sponsored by College & Young Adult Ministries TIDINGS 4
Notes from the Journey
A Backward Glance by Lisa Tresch
S
omeone in my mother’s family traced our genealogy tree back to a man who stepped off the boat from Ireland. His descendents are a fascinating group of folks and include soldiers who fought in the American Revolution, the Civil War, World War I and World War II. There were families with ten children and some with only one (mine would be included in the latter). They had a flair for the unique when it came to naming their children: Otho, Viola, Octavia, Anson, Ople. They were a migratory bunch, moving across the Midwest and the south until most of them landed in Tennessee and Arkansas. When I look at the beginnings of the genealogy chart, it’s hard to feel a connection to these people I’ve never met. They seem interesting on paper, but they are mostly a jagged line that simply works its way down to those that have made a difference in my life. My grandmother, who joined this family line through marriage, suffered from diabetes and was in a wheelchair by
5
ASBURY TIDINGS
the time I was born. She was a tall, strong woman--no frills and a face that was hardened by decades of being the widowed mother of six children. Her husband was killed by a drunk driver when my mother and her twin brother were 13 months old. But my grandma Flonnie was gentle underneath the tough exterior. I have a picture of us together when I was about four years old. We are lying on her bed in the nursing home and we are laughing, which must have been quite a sound within the walls of that place. She suffered with dignity, and never complained. She taught her six children that you do the best with what you have. Most of the time, I don’t think about all those people that make up the history of my family. I live in the here and now, and don’t connect my existence to those who came before me. But every now and then it’s good to take a backward glance and be reminded that we didn’t just show up. There were those who came before us and made an impact on who we are and how we live. It’s true in the realm of genealogy, and in the church. The people that make up the history of the local church where we worship and serve are worthy of a backward glance also. Like my Irish ancestor, there was someone who had to take the step of faith to leave the comfortable for the
unknown. Our spiritual ancestry involves many more people than just those whose names we see on a plaque, or on buildings. In the family tree of a congregation, there are people of faith who diligently kept laying a foundation for the rest of us. Instead of looking back, they were the ones who looked forward because they knew they were not the end of the line. When I trace my own family tree, I see the Othos, and the Octavias, the Flonnies and the Violas. But I also see the continuation of that jagged line that leads forward toward a place I can’t even begin to imagine. It’s the same when I look beneath the steeple of the church. The line will continue and we can’t begin to know who or what will come after us, but we keep paving the way and stepping out in faith in the tradition of those who came before us.
The Birth
of Asbury
(Excerpts from Asbury’s Heritage Book)
T
he year was 1961. President John F. Kennedy was in his first year in office and Tulsa, Oklahoma was called the “Oil Capital of the World.” The city was experiencing tremendous growth with the arrival of many oil companies. In fact, southeast Tulsa was growing at a very fast rate, and in what had once been called the “outskirts” of town, new neighborhoods and businesses were popping up in section after section. The Missions Board of the Tulsa District of the United Methodist Church was being led to check out the rapid growth in southeast Tulsa in order to perhaps purchase land there to build a church. In another area of Tulsa, a man of God and his wife (who had recently retired after a fruitful ministry that spanned some 40 years) were making plans about how they would spend their retirement years. Ninety miles to the southwest of Tulsa in Oklahoma City, a young man who had committed his life to Christ at a Billy Graham crusade seven years previous felt called by the Lord for full-time ministry. He was now in his second year at Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University. God was at work establishing and equipping His church that
would be called “Asbury” with His “clergy in waiting.” The corner of Sheridan and 60th Street was the focus of the Missions Board and interest and excitement were increasing dramatically that this was the site to build the church. A decision was quickly made to buy the five acres. Rev. James O. Whitworth, who had just settled into retirement, accepted the challenge to start the new congregation, which began meeting in the foyer of Francis Scott Key Elementary School, a few blocks west of the church property. The first worship service was held Sunday, January 7, 1962. He and Mrs. Whitworth remained at Asbury until May 1963, when they retired for the second time.
Reverend James Holston from the Mississippi Conference was appointed in June 1963. During his tenure an effort was made to organize the church building program. The congregation, now totaling 29 families, voted to sell bonds to build the first unit on the Sheridan property. Rev. Holston pastored the Asbury congregation until June 1964. Remember that young man from Oklahoma City? William Cameron Mason was 38 years old and had just graduated from seminary. A former businessman, Bill and his wife Jayne had four young children and had never pastored a church. He excitedly accepted the Bishop’s appointment to serve as minister of the very new and young Asbury.
ASBURY TIDINGS
6
Asbury’s Heritage Book Committee Dottie Elliott Jack and Lena Greer Don and Mary Herrold Lyman Page Jan and Sig Schwier Novella Willis Researchers Nancy Baxter Wanda Burns Mary Fran Carle Beth Cowles Marge Creager Peggy George Leah Greaves Jack and Lena Greer Carol Herwig John Hill Jerry and Johnna Himes Jeanette Hooks Ken and Norma Jackson Basil James Carl Richards Chuck and Ginny Scott Marjorie Scott Bonnie Tyree Dolores Willits Writers Dottie Elliott Novella Willis Proofreaders/Editors Jean Atchison Ginger Clutter Mandy Fleeger Nancy Frampton Hal Johnston Bill Robinson Ed & Joanne Stadler Designer Lyman Page Contributors The Asbury Family Consultants Rev. Bill and Jayne Mason Dr. Tom Harrison Asbury Program Staff Steve Wright, Marketing Asbury Program Coordinators
Sunday services continued to be held at Key for another year and the church became known quickly for pastoral care through the hospital visitation and door-to-door visits from its senior pastor. The church family moved to the Sheridan location and had its first 7
ASBURY TIDINGS
worship service on June 27, 1965. Several building projects were conducted at that location, ranging from sanctuary construction to the Mason Center, which served as a youth and recreation building. Meanwhile, God was preparing the man to lead Asbury upon Bill Mason’s retirement in 1993. Tom
Harrison was the man He had waiting in the wings. Having served several smaller churches in Oklahoma after graduating from ORU and Asbury Theological Seminary, Tom and his wife, Dana returned “home” to Tulsa. Tom said that he counted it a distinct honor and privilege to be the one who followed Bill as Asbury’s senior
minister. While it seemed an impossible task, (Tom said he was 29 years behind!), Tom felt fortunate to be a part of such a great church. According to him, the gifts of humility, love, and desire for people to know Christ were a part of Bill’s legacy and Tom’s desire was to continue to serve the Asbury congregation in that way. A groundbreaking at the Mingo location was held on January 13, 2002 and Asbury had it s first church service at our new location, on February 29, 2004. Our master site plan consists of 250,000+ square feet, more than doubling the space in our previous location. Nearly 7,000 people call Asbury their church home today with an average of 3600 people in worship on a weekly basis. Through local and global outreach, Asbury continues to expand. The “Perceptions” ministry by Senior Pastor Dr. Tom Harrison reaches thousands of northeastern Oklahomans each day and has been a significant source of our growth. (You can listen to the Daily Perceptions daily on local radio, or on our website.) In addition, Asbury is well known for ministry to Children, Youth, and Families. With the continued growth over the past two years, Asbury made the decision to expand in order to continue our mission. In the church, growth is not an option. We are all called to reach out to others with the Gospel. The Capital Stewardship Campaign, Mission: Possible, will launch this month. Watch for details. We are excited to be part of what God is doing in the life of our church. We know He has great plans as we continue our journey to Glorify God and Make Disciples.
th & Sheridan. Tom preaching in Sanctuary at 58 ASBURY TIDINGS 88
NO ONE HAS EVER IMAGINED WHAT GOD HAS PREPARED FOR THOSE WHO LOVE HIM. . . 1 COR 2:9
A Look at the Past…
I
A Glimpse of the Future
t began as a part-time volunteer position, but soon it blossomed into an allencompassing career. And, what started out as one morning a week developed into her life’s vocation filled with friendships and fond memories. For nearly 30 years, Johnna Himes was an administrative assistant at Asbury for senior pastors Bill Mason and Tom Harrison. She assumed that role soon after Asbury’s congregation moved into its “new” location on Sheridan in 1965. She served on staff until her retirement in 1994. It is almost difficult for Johnna to call it “work”. As she describes it, “I loved what I was doing. I had so many tremendous opportunities to share and experience people’s joys and sorrows.” She gushes with enthusiasm when she reflects on those days, “What a wonderful ‘job’ I had working with Bill Mason and Tom Harrison, both such dedicated and committed men of God.” However, Johnna’s history with Asbury goes back even further—she and husband Jerry signed the church membership book at Asbury in 1962
9
ASBURY TIDINGS
and are two of the 29 charter members of the church. In 1962, John Glenn was orbiting the Earth (the first U.S. astronaut to do so); leaders in the Soviet Union were building up nuclear arms in Cuba; the Supreme Court ruled that prayer in school was unconstitutional; and in Tulsa, Oklahoma a group of young families were forming a little neighborhood church called Asbury. With a broad smile on her face, Johnna remembers those early days when the people of Asbury met in the foyer of Key Elementary School. Every member played a role and assumed responsibilities. Whether it was folding chairs, moving tables, teaching Sunday school, or counting money— everybody had a job. Over the years, she has worked with many wonderful Christian brothers and sisters who have impacted and influenced her. As she says, “They all were such witnesses of God’s love to me and an encouragement to me in my personal walk with Christ.” Johnna reflects that from the very beginning Asbury was planted in prayer
and no decisions were ever made without first seeking God’s guidance. Johnna has lovingly preserved many of the founding documents and history of Asbury in The Heritage Room. With the help of many friends, The Heritage Room (a mini museum located across the hall from the main offices in Asbury) displays the history of Asbury from those beginning days at Key Elementary to its present-day location on Mingo Road. It has been said: “How can you know where you are going if you don’t know where you have been?” As a charter member, Johnna is well acquainted with Asbury’s past, but what excites her the most is Asbury’s present and its potential for the future. As she wisely says, “As long as our purpose To Glorify God and Make Disciples remains our goal, Asbury will continue to grow and reach out to others not only in Tulsa but around the world. “What an exciting time to be at Asbury and see what God has in store for those who love Him!” -Marcia Curley
Preserving
Asbury’s History
C
ommittees don’t usually write books. If they did, the books wouldn’t be read; maybe quietly filed away for later reference. But a committee of Asbury members wrote and published a book of the church’s history—heritage, if you will—and everything about it looks inspired. Actually, there were only two who did the writing. The other committee members gathered facts and did research, and critiqued, planned, proofread, proofread, and proofread. And as coauthor Dottie Elliott said, “God was with us all the way.” Those responsible for the idea and implementation of such an undertaking all agreed that the Lord was doing the directing. Lena and Jack Greer were the originators of the idea: she served as secretary to the pastor of a church in McAlester, Oklahoma which had produced such a book, and the Herrolds remember her eyes sparkling when she insisted that Asbury follow suit. With committee members Mary and Don Herrold, Novella Willis, Jan and Sig Schwier, Dottie Elliott, and Lyman Page joining in, it was a book ready for the writing. Novella recalled the first three meetings with the committee. “The book was to be written in three sections, and the Herrolds asked me if I would write their section. Then they asked if I would write the whole book. I told them I wouldn’t, and after three meetings, I said I would if they would bring Dottie Elliott on board.” If Asbury had a writer laureate it would be Dottie. She agreed to write the book with Novella. And for a year the various communities, classes, staff, and members brought copies of
stories and information which had been already published, and additional records from the more than 35 years of Asbury’s existence. “Novella and I would write a section,” Dottie said. “We would turn it over to the committee for changes or corrections which we made, and it would go back to the committee. We interviewed, researched printed and photographed records, and read each other’s work. It took two years to write. Half way through, Lyman Page entered the project, designing the book cover and formatting all 247 pages to camera-ready requirements. His work lifts the publication to a magnificent classic professionalism, preventing a typical “committee—or yearbook look.” The finished product looks and reads like a book, not a contrived collection of facts and faces. Don Herrold believed that the cost of producing the books did not have to be as great as the first quotations they obtained from printers. “I knew that schools all over the country didn’t pay those kind of prices for their yearbooks,” he said. “So I made inquiries and found some companies they used. It saved us more than half!” In addition to being on the committee from the beginning, Jan and Sig Schwier received help from their business employees, scanning every photograph; and Sig provided safe storage for the final product— 1500 of the beautiful books. When the supply at church runs low, Sig
delivers more books. And even the distribution and sale of the books was divinely ordered—with marketing guru Steve Wright guiding the successful efforts. “With Steve’s expertise, we sold enough books in the first three to four weeks to pay for them,” said Mary Herrold. There was still excitement in her voice, remembering the instant response to the very long group effort. The book, “The Heritage of Asbury United Methodist Church 19622000,” is still available in the Gazebo or church library. - Donna Wilson See page 7 for a list of those who made Asbury’s Heritage Book possible.
A native of Tulsa, Lym an Page, designer of the Asbury Herit age Book, attended art school at the Rocky Mountain School of Art in Denve r, Colorado. He returned to Tulsa where he has pursued his career in graphic desig n at Strictly Hers, Su pe rst ar Sa tel lite an d no w at Winnercomm, Inc. wh ere he serves as Art Director. He recently won his first Addy award given by the Tu lsa Advertising Federation. Ly ma n an d his wif e, Su sie , ha ve been married 10 years and have two children, Garrett, 6 and All ison 3. They joined Asbury in 2000 and no w Lyman helps teach both Garrett and Alliso n’s Sunday classes. ASBURY TIDINGS
10
Todd Craig and his son Ethan.
A Legacy
of Grace
By Todd Craig
O
ne of the things that I love most about being a pastor at Asbury is doing hospital visits every Monday. I spend the majority of my time working with members of the congregation under the age of 35. However, for the two hours I spend each week in the hospitals I get to visit some of the other treasures of our church. Sure, the young people of Asbury are our promise of our future, but it is the older members who invest in the future of Asbury by investing in the young people. I know this is true, because it has been true in my own life. As I visit some of the older members of Asbury in the hospitals or in the halls of the church I am consistently blessed to discover new ways that people I have never met have invested in my own life. Some of these investments have been large and very visible investments. My Mother’s Day Out, preschool, Sunday school 11 ASBURY TIDINGS
teachers, the choir directors, choir moms, youth directors, youth sponsors, friends and pastors are all examples of those that have left indelible marks on my life. But recently I am becoming more aware of those that have had a less visible, but important impact on my life. Just last week I visited a couple in the hospital who have been members of Asbury for over 35 years and have been singing in the choir that entire time! When I was six years old, they were singing in the choir. I may not remember them individually, but they were making a small impact on my life. Last December Stephenie and I moved into a new house. We were excited to find out that our builder and his wife were members of Asbury. As we got to know one another I learned that he had been investing in Youth Missions Stock for over 15 years. I was floored! My builder had invested in
my high school mission experiences. I didn’t know him, he didn’t know me. It was incredible to get to share with him how much of a difference he had made in my life. Even more amazing was I got to invite him and his wife to join a missions team I was leading to Monterrey. He had invested in my first missions experience years earlier, and I was now traveling with him on his first missions experience. The body of Christ is incredibly powerful! I regularly share with people that growing up at Asbury has been one of the greatest means of God’s grace in my life. I can’t imagine a better gift for our seven-month-old son Ethan than growing up at Asbury, surrounded by a congregation that will extend God’s grace and God’s love to him the same way that it has for me. Even more exciting for me is that I have the opportunity to do the same for others, an opportunity that each one of us has. Glorify God and make disciples!
Following a
C
Legacy of Service
alling Jim Grice a “Mama’s Boy” is taken as a compliment. Jim and his family are indebted to his mother Josie. Those pre-Mingo church members will remember her as the namesake of Grice Hall. Jim has been a member of Asbury since 1963. Wanting to be involved with friends and neighbors in helping to develop a new United Methodist Church, Jim got his wish through his involvement at Asbury. Bill Mason came into the picture and he wanted to build a church. The church began to sell bonds. He remembers the congregation bought what they could and then Bill went door-to-door selling bonds. Bill broke
his ankle, but after his medical treatment he just went right on selling bonds in his cast. “Who was going to turn down a man on crutches?” he asked. The church contined to grow. “We stayed with it and watched it grow. We never thought we would outgrow what we had,” Jim said. Then Tom Harrison came along…and the church continued to grow. Jim was once again amazed to see Asbury go through another building campaign. Church has always been an integral part of Jim’s life. He grew up down the street from a Methodist Church in Southern Mississippi, committing his life to Christ at age ten.
He saw the wonderful example of Christianity from his father and especially from his mother. “Dad said if the church ever caught on fire my Mom would catch on fire,” Jim added. His mother, Josie, came to Tulsa in 1972. She continued to serve in her church, now Asbury. Her faith and commitment to the church were well known. “I don’t think I’ve ever known anyone who tried to live her faith anymore than she did,” Jim explained. “I think people could see that.” Josie lived to be 99½ years old. Jim added that one of the happiest times in her life was when they named Asbury’s Grice Hall after her. Jim has continued the legacy modeled by his mother. He has served Asbury through his membership on the Administrative Council, Pastor/Parish Committee, through ushering and visiting newcomers. He was also the third president of Asbury’s United Methodist Men. You can see Jim’s friendly face as he volunteers twice a month at the South Welcome Desk. “What amazes me is watching the door,” Jim exclaimed. “There are 50 and 60 activities at the church in one day. It is just amazing!” After a talk with Jim, it is apparent he has a servant’s heart, no doubt a legacy from his mother. It is apparent he is following her example. “I am trying to be like her,” he said. Josie would be proud. -Jeremy Burton
ASBURY TIDINGS
12
Nothin’ spells lovin; Like Something
From the Oven
T
he best recipe the Sisters of the Skillet ever created was not in their cookbook. It was their recipe for success that had only two ingredients: prayer and laughter (both in generous quantities). The Sisters of the Skillet originated when the same eight women kept showing up to work on cooking projects for the UMW Bazaar in 1986. Bonnie Tyree noted their superior skills and dubbed them “The Sisters of the Skillet”. They added four more women because Jesus had twelve disciples, and they would also limit their number to twelve. If a member moved or passed away, they would replace that member. The joke got started around church that this was the only group where someone had to die for someone else to get in. Each sister said that they got along miraculously. Diana Rubin said, “There was never one bad word spoken during all our times together – never a word of gossip – never an angry, critical or negative word.” Alma Robson said, “There was so much laughter and support. If someone made a mistake, we would just laugh about it and redo what was necessary. I never worked with any group like it. I wish we could do it all again!” The sisters worked tirelessly for about 15 years, cooking for mission fund-raising projects like the annual
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ASBURY TIDINGS
Whirlwind for Willard, UMW Bazaars, Asbury’s Thanksgiving dinners and much more. Jayne Mason said, “We could really cook chicken and made beautiful chicken salads! Doris Drake had the recipes and with Martha Lovell’s help, they shopped and were the head honcho cooks. They could tell the rest of us what to cut up, and they kept things organized. Martha’s husband, Red, was the only man we allowed in the kitchen. He had big muscles and could carry heavy pans of gravy.” Everything started with prayer. Mary Holder was the prayer leader, and unanimous testimony confirmed her prayers could be lengthy. Doris Drake would sometimes call out, “Cut it short, Mary!” So after drying their tears of laughter, the work would begin. Mary always had Christmas lunch for the sisters at her house, and one year her husband, Geron, surprised them all with aprons he had custom made. To round out their uniform, the oldest member, Mildred Beible, made little skillet pins for all to wear. Mildred cooked with the group until she was in her 90s. Pat Schwaninger was the last lady to join the sisters. She said after she had helped prepare a number of meals with the group, she was surprised to learn that Jayne Mason was
Dr. Bill Mason’s wife! Katherine Watkins remembers the time she was serving salad with tongs at a special luncheon, and she served a paper towel to someone. (It had been separating lettuce leaves). One time they made reservations at the Peach Tree Restaurant in the name, “Sisters of the Skillet.” Jayne noticed at the table that the reservation card read, “The Nuns” so she said, “Girls, we’re really going to have to behave ourselves!” Jo Ann Goss treasures the framed poem that Alma Robson gave to each one: “We are not sisters by birth/ but we knew from the start/ that God brought us together/ to be sisters by heart.” That’s one fact they all know – God did bring them together! -Marty McBroom
“MY COMMAND IS THIS: LOVE EACH OTHER AS I HAVE LOVED YOU.” JOHN 15:12
Investments in the
Church of Tomorrow A
sbury Student Ministry has gone through many changes in the past 40 years. Two of the formative leaders who pioneered this youth ministry are Nancy Baxter and Pastor Dick Read. In 1969, Nancy (Durham) Baxter was one of the first summer youth directors at Asbury. “When I joined the staff, it was Bill Mason and Johnna Himes. That was it. My only goal (as Student Ministry Director) was to share the Gospel with kids.” From the very beginning, Bill Mason made Youth Ministry a priority. Nancy said, “He really had a heart for it. Back then Bill was in charge of everything, including the youth. At that time Asbury had about 700 members. There were a lot of people in the neighborhood who had teenagers, so we had about 150 kids in seventh through twelfth grades.” After Nancy graduated from OU with a degree in Education, she married Phil Baxter. “I began praying to go into full-time Christian work. Then in 1971, right after Christmas, Bill asked me to come on full-time as
Asbury’s Youth Director.” In the days before Student Ministry mission trips, Nancy planned road trips for the youth. “Bill thought we needed a bus. So Jerry Himes and I went to the old bus lot where we bought a used school bus for $150. We brought it back to Asbury and painted it. It looked pretty good. A short time later, we were taking a youth trip to see the Passion Play in Eureaka Springs. We got 90 miles down the highway when the bus broke down! John and Nelda Westervelt were with me and we called a charter bus to pick us up and take us the rest of the way. It was wonderful to have real adults along to help me!” Today Nancy loves to see the
work that Christ is doing in the lives of kids who grew up in the faith at Asbury like Matt and Molly Swanson who are missionaries in Guatemala. Many of the “kids” who were in youth while Nancy was the Director are still very involved at Asbury. “The funny thing is that they are not that much younger than I am!” she said. In 1980, it was an eighth grade Sunday school class that brought Dick Read to Asbury. He was a senior at ORU and was taking a class called Teaching the Bible. This class required him to get real-life experience, so he called Asbury to ask if he could teach a youth Sunday School class. Under the direction of Doug Walker, the Youth Director at that time, Dick
ASBURY TIDINGS 14
Nancy Baxter taught an eighth grade class with Ruth Edward and Dee Paige. This was the beginning of his ministry at Asbury. He was offered a temporary tenhour a week position on staff and his title was Assistant to the Youth Director. Before Dick graduated from ORU, Nancy Staab, who was the youth ministry volunteer coordinator, asked him, “What would it take for you to stay here?” He made the decision to attend
15 ASBURY TIDINGS
ORU Graduate School of Theology and in 1987 became Asbury’s Director of Youth Ministry. The time he spent working with youth forced Dick to develop the spiritual disciplines of prayer, daily quiet time, tithing and a love of missions. He planned the first youth mission trip to Espanola, Mexico in 1981. He took less than a dozen kids.
After that, youth mission trips caught on quickly. In July of 1984, Dick took 97 high school students to Monterey, Mexico. He believes one of the reasons Asbury has such a strong Volunteers In Missions (VIM) Ministry is because students coming back from mission trips and share their experiences with their parents. That motivates the parents to go. Even with all of the responsibilities Dick has today as a Pastor at Asbury, he is still serving the youth. On Wednesday nights he teaches a Bible study for high school sophomores. When asked why youth ministry is important, his answer was simple, “Kids are not the church of tomorrow. They are the church of today.” -Christy Capps
Wordfinders meet at 9:15 in RM 2818
Asbury Men
Mentoring Men By Bob Lee
I
want to share with you how God has touched me and others through the Men’s Ministry here at Asbury. The hardest part is answering the question, “Where do I start?” Should I start with the quiet and faithful service of Howard Cotton, or the dedicated commitment of men like Darryl McRight, Jack Hartung, and Gary Parker? Or maybe with the
vision of Mitch Nally who started the Car Care Ministry for widows and single moms and the faithfulness of his family to continue it. Or maybe with the heartfelt gratitude of the women served by the Home Improvement Ministry. Or maybe I should start with the compassion of men like Norm Ryser who was always caring for others, or the commitment of men like Larry Francisco who knew Jesus even when he struggled to recognize Beverly, his own wife. Maybe I start with the gentle spirit of Bill Mason or the exuberance of Glen Grusendorf. Or with the inspiration of men like Ken Myers, Basil James and Bud Mathes who are not ashamed to share Jesus with others. Maybe I should begin with my Joshua’s Men monthly book study group. These men share the same struggles and trials I have and that has
helped me to be a better husband and father to my family. Or maybe it was seeing Kurt, Tom, and Lee come along side their accountability partner as he and his family dealt with a tragic death of a son. Maybe I begin with the Rite of Passage for the youth several years ago when I saw Mike Madere embrace his son, James, kiss him on the cheek and tell him he loved him, just weeks before Mike died of a heart attack. Or, maybe I begin with the brotherhood that I share with Pec Clark and Dub Ambrose, knowing that these guys love me even when I’m not very loveable. Or, maybe with seeing other men at the weekly prayer breakfast who genuinely and earnestly make their petitions known to God, fully expecting and seeing miracles. You see my dilemma? Where DO I start??....
ASBURY TIDINGS 16
Bringing God’s
N
Love to Our Youngest
ot long ago I heard my two-year-old sing himself to sleep. In the midst of a long string of toddler chatter, I heard the recognizable phrase, “. . . Bible tells me so.” I smiled. Jackson attends Mothers’ Day Out at Asbury one day a week and I knew he had learned this song at school. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me.” Asbury’s Preschool and Mother’s Day Out program has been extending those words of Christ since it’s inception in 1965. In September of that year, the program began with one preschool class for four-year-olds. Enrollment was limited to 24 students. Through the years, the little children have continued to come and God has continued to bless. Currently Preschool/MDO offers 11 classes. The 220 plus children that attend represent more than 170 families. Joanne Miller, director since 1990, sees their purpose as much more than babysitting. Every staff member is very intentional about what God’s called
Joanne Miller with granddaughter Ella and Susan Rizzotti
17
ASBURYTIDINGS
them to do. “Even our crib teachers do lesson plans and all our teachers pray together on a daily basis. “This is a ministry,” continues Joanne. “We’ve evolved into ‘grandmas’ to many of these young moms and dads.” There is time spent daily counseling and praying with parents, being in partnership with them during times of crisis. “Grandpa” John Westervelt is a perfect example of the commitment of a Preschool/MDO teacher. Not long ago one family had a dad called overseas. John took the time to get involved and minister as a male-figure to the children,” explained Joanne. “The encouragement was invaluable. What’s more amazing, Grandpa John volunteers his time, five days a week. This kind of heart for ministry is strengthened by the rich curriculum that is offered. Some of the youngest classes are introduced to not only colors and numbers but also Bach and Mozart. A 1986 Preschool/MDO report
Denice Brice harvest discipleship community
still rings true today: “Because we believe our children are made in the image of God and given the capacity to create, our teachers encourage creativity through art, music, drama, and play which expands the child’s imagination and develops confidence in his or her own abilities.” It’s hard to put into words how God’s hand has been on the workings of the program and how deeply the lives of the families have been touched. A Texas A&M saying comes to mind for Assistant Director Susan Rizzoti, “From the outside you don’t understand it, from the inside you can’t explain it.” Joanne likens it to a quilt. “It’s an intricate joining of moms, dads, families, staff and teachers. The pattern was set in years past. We’ve inherited a wonderful program and we’re here to make it better.” God has woven a beautiful community and you can see how those in leadership are committed to enrich every child and family--not only with quality education but also with the love of Christ.” Last night as I tucked Jack into bed, I asked him what he wanted to thank God for as we said our goodnight prayer. Among his list of “momma, daddy and cookies” he added “school.” As one of those families blessed by Asbury’s Preschool and Mother’s Day Out through the years, I agreed, “Amen, son.” -Nikki Boyd
LET THE LITTLE CHILDREN COME TO ME.. MARK 10:14
Helping Others
Understand God’s Word N
ancy Staab is attuned to God’s heartbeat and during her 34 years at Asbury has been a foundation in the ministry and mission of the church. After building a new home in South Tulsa, distance became a factor in attending their former church. Nancy kept passing Asbury and one day she stopped to check it out. Bill Mason gave her a tour. “He showed me everything including the closets. He asked me what I did at our former church. I told him I taught first grade and he said, ‘Good, we need someone to do that.’” Responding to Asbury’s need she indeed taught first grade, worked with Vacation Bible School, and assisted with the youth. “I still remember sitting with Doug Walker and Dick Read as we were looking at plans for Asbury’s future. We were amazed at what we’d be able to do with the Mason Center. Our hopes were endless!” Nancy remembers the day Shirley Ann Smith began telling her about a unique Bible study. “She told me it wasn’t just someone standing up there and telling what they knew, but it actually helped people learn to study for themselves. I went to Bill Mason to see if we could start Precept Bible studies at Asbury. I told
him, ‘Now, it’s not a Methodist study.’ He still agreed because it was totally Bible.” The inductive studies developed by Kay Arthur and known as Precept Bible Studies are now taught throughout the world. Nancy is sure that those studies helped change her life. She explained, “For once I had the tools to study, understand, apply and remember what the Bible was telling me.” This incredible lady with the spiritual gifts of exhortation, teaching and faith, is amazed at how God has moved in her life to equip her for doing just what she loves. “All I cared about was that people see what God says, think it through, and make their decisions accordingly.” Nancy’s entrance into the kingdom happened many years before. Lay witness missions were popular and one was coming to their church. The Kentucky couple that would be heading the mission visited in Nancy and Bob’s home. One evening this man confronted Nancy in the kitchen and said, “I don’t think you realize it yet, but you’re very ripe.” “What do you mean?” Nancy asked rather indignantly. He continued, “Let me change that, you’re really primed.” “I was somewhat offended and thought he was being a little fresh, however in the middle of the night I woke up crying and that continued off
and on throughout the next day when we attended a conference on lay witness missions in Oklahoma City. It was like every song spoke to me,” Nancy explained. “One of our first assignments was to pray for every member of the future mission. I still remember the setting—bright yellow chair, bright orange shag carpet, green bookshelves. As I was praying for these other people I felt God speak to me saying, ‘It’s YOU that I’m after.’” Since that moment Nancy’s life has never been the same. She developed an insatiable hunger for God’s word. “It was like God was talking right to me. Soon my family came to Asbury and in 1979 we began Precept studies. The first study began with five people, but it was instrumental in maturing so many of Asbury’s leaders.” Nancy has been a Precept leader trainer since the mid-nineties. She has not only been to Precept headquarters many times, she has trained leaders in London and the Ukraine. During her years as an active member of Asbury her desire has been to help others find what she has received—the love, forgiveness and grace of God. “I don’t want to tell people what I know; instead I want them to learn to find for themselves what God says so that it stays with them. I want to guide and encourage them along the way. What a privilege!” -Sandy Wagner ASBURY TIDINGS 20
Extending a Welcome
to Our Visitors “Good afternoon, I’m Jim and this is my wife, Doode. We’re from Asbury and just wanted to stop by and say thanks for visiting Asbury today.”
T
hese are the words we heard one summer day in 1993 when Jim and Doode Blazer stopped by our house as my husband Bobby and I were in the garage, up to our elbows in chemicals attempting to refinish a chair. Surely Jim, an accomplished furniture refinisher, noticed our ineptitude but graciously encouraged us with some advice. Then, an hour later he showed up again and gave us a couple of wire brushes that were the perfect size for our task. We were amazed--first that someone had personally stopped by to greet us, and second that this complete stranger was so generous and thoughtful to loan us his tools, not knowing if he’d ever see them again. Well, he did see them again, and he saw us again through the years as we eventually joined Asbury that year. Not only did Jim and Doode volunteer in the Friendly Visitor ministry, they were instrumental in starting it. In 1985, when Asbury was experience a growth in membership, Bill Mason and Associate Pastor Bill Wenker asked Jim and Doode to attend an event to learn about implementing a program of calling on firsttime visitors. They were inspired to start such a ministry at Asbury. They remember one conscious decision in the early days. They felt strongly that
21 ASBURY TIDINGS
the visit was to be a “Porch Visit” lasting just 5-10 minutes, and not overtly evangelical. They knew that once people get involved at Asbury, there are plenty of opportunities to hear the Gospel, learn the Word and grow in their faith. The role of the Friendly Visitor was to be one of the first to say, “Welcome, we’d like to get to know you.” The Blazers headed up the Friendly Visitor Ministry for ten years, during which time they personally made an average of 100 visits a year. That’s over one thousand times of looking up addresses, searching through neighborhoods, and ringing doorbells for a five minute visit. They have enjoyed meeting people from all walks of life who visited Asbury for all kinds of reasons, from someone new to town looking for a church home to a teenager who visited with a friend, or a relative of a baptized infant. They all received the same friendliness and generosity of spirit. Irv and Midge West took over the program after the Blazers and in Jim’s words, “That’s when it really took off.” Jim reflected that the key to the West’s success in recruiting Friendly Visitors was his ability to approach people one-on-one and ask them personally to join them in ministry. Jim had previously sought volunteers by standing in front of groups of people and asking for help. He learned a valuable lesson, “People are much more likely to
respond to a personal invitation than a general call for help.” As the scripture says, “some plant, some water, but God makes it grow,” and so it is true in the case of the Friendly Visitors. Jim and Doode Blazer tilled the ground for something new at Asbury. They patiently and graciously laid the foundation for not only a ministry that has grown to include over 40 visitors who make a thousand visits a year, but an attitude that has come to be associated with Asbury. We’re a friendly place that welcomes everyone. It’s part of the legacy of Jim and Doode Blazer. While that porch visit back in 1993 may not have been the only reason we joined Asbury, I can assure you it had an impact, and we haven’t forgotten this sweet couple and their act of graciousness and generosity. If you are interested in serving in the Friendly Visitor ministry, contact Don Hubbs at 392-1104. -Juli Armour
Fueling Dreams for
Future Missions
N
INETEEN-YEAR-OLD Bruce Olsson stood at the edge of a clearing. He had been following the thin jungle trail high in the Colombian Andes for several hours. Somehow he felt he was being watched. Indeed, if this was a Motilone Indian trail, he knew he was in grave danger. Should he cross the clearing? Not your usual bedtime story, but a bedtime story nonetheless. It was full of danger and exciting jungle scenes. Many Asburians have read Bruchko, the autobiographical account of Bruce Olsson, missionary to the Motilone Indians of Columbia. Mary Ann Smith says that “his work is considered the hallmark of contextualized mission and his book is required reading for most missiology programs.” It has also had a significant influence on some of Asbury’s young adults on the mission field today. They well remember as young children, being read a chapter each night as a bedtime story. Asbury’s strong mission commitment began at its founding in 1965 and has an amazing history of faithful leadership among both laity and staff. A significant emphasis began in 1975 when Bill Mason, then our senior pastor, heard about this young man and urged the church to support Bruce. Grant Miller’s family joined Asbury that same year. A five-year old at the time, Grant hung on every word as he sat in the
sanctuary listening to Bruce Olsson talk about God’s work among the Motilones. Bruce, a tall, blonde American of Norwegian descent, visited Asbury frequently and sometimes brought one of the Motilones with him. “I remember thinking how exciting it must be to live in a totally different culture than what I was used to. I wanted to learn how to speak other languages, as Bruce did, and to live among people who were not anything like me,” Grant recalls. After hearing Bruce speak, Grant drew a detailed picture of him, with little round glasses, squatting on the ground in the jungle, encircled by brown-skinned Motilones as he read the Bible to them. He mailed the picture to Bruce and was astounded when he received a personal reply: “Grant, thank you for the great picture you drew for me. When I showed it to the Motilones they laughed and said that my eyes looked just like the night monkeys.” It was a great delight and encouragement to an impressionable five-year old! Grant continued to dream of learning other languages and living among other cultures. In college he studied abroad for a semester. With Mary Ann Smith’s encouragement, he went with Youth for Christ to Australia for two years. Just as Asbury was adopting an unreached people group in Tanzania,
he graduated from Asbury Seminary with a degree in Cross Cultural Studies. Grant accepted an invitation to work as Asbury’s liaison among the Kami people in 1999. Just days before departing for Tanzania, Bill Mason invited Grant to their home to meet privately with Bruce Olsson— their houseguest that week. It was a thrill to visit privately with the missionary who had been such a positive role model. Later, asked if Bruce was his “idol”, Grant replied, “No, he’s not my idol—I just really admire his faithfulness.” When we feel insignificant, Bruce’s story is a reminder that our acts of faithfulness affect others in many ways and extend well beyond our lifetime and our shores. -Donna Miller
ASBURY TIDINGS 22
A Model
T
of God’s Love
wenty-nine years ago a young family joined Asbury with their three small children Jeff, Doug, and Scott. The youngest son Jeff, born in 1974, went to classes with the other two and three year olds. Mom Judy, helped in the classroom because Jeff was born with Down Syndrome and she felt a little extra support would be helpful. Another child came to Asbury with special needs and at that point, parents were organized to volunteer for a special education Sunday school class.
Special education teachers were recruited to help with the teaching each Sunday. For a few years, nothing was available for children with special needs. Judy joined a group of people in 1998, who were exploring the possibility of beginning a disability ministry. At one of the meetings Judy remarked she wished Jeff had a class to go to. Shortly thereafter, a class for Jeff was started. Doug and Scott each married and had children. Jeff started work as a young adult. Today Jeff ushers and feels he is a vital part of the ministry at Asbury. When asked what she has learned about God through Jeff, Judy replied, “Little did I
realize when God gave me Jeff what a journey it would be! I prayed for strength and wisdom and God certainly gave me that. But with that, God also gave me much insight into his own attributes. As Jeff and I grew and learned together, Christ became more and more evident. I do believe special people are here for us all to learn true love.” She continues by giving an acrostic: Meet Jeffrey--Joy in Life, Enthusiasm in spirit, Faithful to God and loved ones, Forgiving through love, Righteous in actions, Energetic in Christ and life, and Youthful at heart. “How could I ever doubt God’s love and faithfulness? I know He has never left us. How honored I am that God picked me to be his mother. Special people like him could come only from God’s love. I thank God every day for Jeff who is so much like Him. He is a major blessing to us all.” -Linda Petty
DEAR FRINEDS, LET US LOVEONE ANOTHER, FOR LOVE COMES FROM GOD. . . 1 JOHN 4:7
Judy and Jeff Wright 23 ASBURY TIDINGS
Developing the Richard Richards
School of Music
H
e was a retired elementary band teacher who loved to play sax and was good at it! He also loved orchestra. Right after Hart Morris came to oversee and develop the Fine Arts and Music program in 1992, Richard Richards approached him with the hope that an orchestra could be developed. Richard had tried in years past to interest the former director of music in this endeavor but failed. Hart, an instrumental and orchestral musician himself was thrilled with the prospect of having an orchestra. He asked Richard to develop and conduct the budding instrumental program. At Asbury’s Sheridan Ave. location there was no orchestra room. They met in the music basement using one large room that on Sundays was shared with four Sunday school classes. There also was no library for the orchestra and because of that shortage Richard arranged or transcribed much of the music they performed. He kept all the orchestra folders in a cardboard box that he toted to and from the church each Thursday evening for rehearsal. The orches tra grew that first year and by the second year had performed
in the worshipservices and presented a spring concert. The concert was well attended and very entertaining because when Richard didn’t have enough violins or a sax, he would play one of those instruments as he conducted. His quiet dedication to the instrumental program and to the orchestra was inspiring. Richard developed the orchestra to a point where they were able to play once a month in the worship services. He brought in old cronies when instruments were missing always seeking to improve the sound of the orchestra. When he became seriously ill the musicians rallied around lifting him up in prayer. At this time, Dr. Doug Wilson took over the orchestra hoping that Richard would be able to return in a less taxing role as a player, though that was not to be. Richard’s funeral was a celebration of him and his music. The orchestra played through tears as they said their last goodbye. Though his tenure was short Dr. Wilson’s musical influence and the continuance of Richard’s dream moved on. After Dr. Wilson resigned, Charles Emerson was hired as the orchestra director. Several years later the Richard Richards School of Music was begun. A fitting tribute to a man who loved
Richard Richards as a young musician and later, as the Asbury Orchestra leader. teaching music and children, the School of Music offered lessons in flute, guitar, piano, voice and percussion to children, youth and adults. The program progressed and flourished. Planning for the new Asbury on Mingo brought hopes for practice rooms for the students and the ability to accommodate more students in the school of music. Walking through the halls of Asbury now, seeing the large orchestra room, the orchestra library, the oversized chancel and hearing the instrumental groups perform at all the worship services it, brings a sense of gratitude for a man who had a dream and pursued it. With a twinkle in his eye Richard would say, “Aren’t they doing great?” Yes, they are, Richard. Thank you. -Marti Morris
ASBURY TIDINGS 24
I
am not a very good dancer…Actually, I’m pretty bad, but that is the best way to describe this journey that I am on. A dance. Where did I come from? How did I GET here? Hindsight clarifies, but I never could have told you where I would end up. My dance began really before I was born, in the mind of God. But to keep it short, I will just describe the significant twists and turns of my “spiritual” waltz. I was raised in a home where we went to church pretty sporadically. I knew the basics of Christianity and I knew I didn’t want to go to hell. Every year at Vacation Bible School, I asked Jesus into my heart. I grew to recognize that Jesus heard me every time. Before the words were out of my mouth, he claimed me as His. In sixth grade my mom brought me to Asbury because it had a “good” youth group. Little did she know how much that would change me. I loved going to have fun, but strangely, I already had a strong desire for spiritual food. In seventh grade, my Bible study leader stressed the importance of daily “quiet times.” I started a Bible study called “Spending Time Alone With God.” I loved it. In eighth grade I bought a prayer journal and started
having my own regular Bible studies. I longed for God. The chaos of a broken home caused me to cling to God’s stability. On a fall retreat when I was 13, a youth sponsor told about a mission opportunity with Teen Mania. I knew I wanted to go. My mom said I could go if I paid for it. I raised the money and went to Panama for a month. That started it! After that, I longed to go on any mission trip I could. Asbury has a history of providing mission opportunities for youth, so during my high school years, I went to Mexico several times and to Estonia. I also went to Albania with Teen Mania. It was then that I knew I wanted to be a missionary for the rest of my life. What began in my heart as a small tickle, an interest, had become a conviction. Now this is where my dance gets complicated. God would lead me in one step and I would say, “Hey I know this one, let’s keep going.” But then He would twirl me around in another direction. This happened very obviously with my college plans. I started out at Oral Roberts University as a pre-med major, following my dream to be a single missionary doctor to the poorest
of the poor. But after one year of biology, chemistry, and math analysis, I longed to study the Bible more. I met with Dick Read (then the college pastor), and he told me about Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. I still wanted to be a doctor and Moody didn’t offer any science courses. Boy, was that a twist in my Meringue. For my major in International Ministries, I had to complete a sixweek internship. That is how I was first introduced to Potter’s House and grew to love the ministry here. In addition to finding “my ministry” at Moody, I also met my husband, Matt. (Now, remember that I was going to be a SINGLE missionary doctor— another twist). We have been married for almost five years and we are expecting our second child. One of my greatest joys is receiving mission teams each year from Asbury’s Student Ministry as they come to work alongside us at Potter’s House. So, back to the dance.I am not single. I am not a doctor. But I am a missionary. I’m learning that God can twist and turn and spin me in new directions when he desires. He uses every step to prepare me for the next. I am learning to just follow his lead and try not to look too far ahead.
A Step-by-Step
Spiritual Dance By Molly Swanson
Matt, Mollie and Josiah Swanson with members of Potter’s House in Guatemala. 25 ASBURY TIDINGS
Sharing the
Good News by Jan Weinheimer
I
t looked easy enough. A little classified ad sat atop the page of the United Methodist Reporter dated April 29, 1994. “A New Position Open…Resumes are now being accepted for the new Asbury staff position…etc. etc. etc.” The Reporter, a newspaper which allowed churches to put their local news on the front and back pages while providing district news on the inside pages, was the tool used to communicate to the Asbury congregation. (Earlier publications used for this purpose included the Tulsa Herald from 1965-1973, and the Texas Methodist, used from January – April 1973.) After 21 years, the leadership of Asbury felt it was time to make a change…to provide a publication to the Asbury family that was specific to them. The little classified ad sat for a week or so on my kitchen counter. I wasn’t sure if I could resurrect the things I had learned so many years before. Had I known then how far technology had taken the field since my cut-and-paste days, I would never have had the courage to send in my resume. Then again, had I known how blessed I would be to communicate the good news of what God is doing in and through the people of Asbury, I would never have had hesitated to apply! After several meetings with likeminded folks who carefully chose the name Tidings, the new publication premiered in October 1994. We agreed
that the intent of the Tidings was to spread the good news and accurately depict the ministries of Asbury United Methodist Church.
Those in on the early planning of the paper included Dottie Elliott, Mary Burkholder, Novella Willis, Mack Creager, Norma Jackson, Phil Essley, Red Sheffield, Kim Bonifield, Marty McBroom, and John Westervelt. Marty and John are still regular contributors to the publication. Since the first issue was published, the Tidings has gone through several transitions….from a biweekly tabloid, to full-sized newspaper, to the magazine format used
today. In January 2005, the Asbury’s communication team made the decision not only to change the look of the publication, but to be intentional about presenting stories of transformed lives. With the move to Mingo and the activity level of the church increasing dramatically, we concluded that it would be easy to become focused on programming. We felt it seemed more important than ever to communicate the transforming power of Jesus Christ. Each month we try to convey a theme that is relates how God works through ordinary people to do extraordinary things. In the months ahead, we will be sharing stories of those who are finding new significance after retirement, those who have unusual family traditions, and those who have found a way to glorify God and make disciples in the marketplace. If you have a story idea for any of these three themes, you may write your suggestion and leave it at the South Welcome Center (in an envelope marked Tidings), or email jweinheimer@asburytulsa.org. If we can use your story idea, we’ll assign it to one of our volunteer writers.
ASBURY TIDINGS 26
asbury opportunities general information SPRING FORWARD! Remember to set your clocks Saturday night, April 1, before you go to bed! Breakfast Served from 7:00-9:15 a.m. in the CLC Come enjoy fellowship with Asburians along with fresh donuts, bagels, biscuit s & gravy, sausage, eggs, fruit, and cereal. $2 for adults & $1 for children 12 & under Sunday Morning Worship 8:00 am Mason Chapel (Traditional Communion) 9:15 am Sanctuary (Contemporary Communion) 11:00 am Sanctuary (Traditional) Sign interpreter provided 11:00 am Mason Chapel (Contemporary) Children and 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 Adult Discipleship Communities 8:00, 9:15, and 11:00 am and Wednesdays, 6:30 pm The Gazebo is Open ...each Sunday morning between services and Wednesday evenings from 5:30 - 7:00 pm. Perceptions and Prayer Journals on sale (note: the new sermon notes page on the bulletin is designed to fit in the Prayer Journal), as well as selections in Pastor Tom’s Book Club, including: Seasons of Life by former AllAmerican and NFL All-Pro, Joe Ehrman and The Life God Blesses by Gordon MacDonald. New book selections include Don’t Sing Songs to a Heavy Heart by Kenneth Haugh, for anyone who has ever wanted to help others who are suffering and The Screwtape Letter by C.S. Lewis, a classic that every Christian should read. AsburyWear is also for sale. Aluminum Can Recycling Hey church family! Keep collecting those aluminum cans and bringing them to the church when you come! Once a month our resident “can man,” Jim Schultz, picks them up from the east side storage area and takes them to the recyling center for us. Gently toss your wellbagged cans into the fenced area, and be a part of ministry to the children in our church and the community. On behalf of our children and the environment, thank you! Asbury Family News is available at the Welcome Centers. It includes hospital lists, births, deaths, marriages, baptisms and military listings. Doors of Asbury posters are at the Welcome Centers...our gift to you. Suitable for framing. 27
CALENDAR
Recycling Bin Locations - Recycle unwanted paper products. Two bins available, located in the south and east parking lots. Free Tax Assistance - Every Wednesday through April 12, 1:00-4:30 p.m., room 1504. New Additions to the Library The Asbury Library is a wonderful resource. New additions are listed in a black notebook on the Librarian’s desk. Thank you to all who continue to contribute books to our Library. Free Tax Assistance Every Wednesday through April 12. 1:00-4:30 pm in Rm 1504.
access Hands of Love Sign Choir Sundays, 6:00-7:00 pm, Rm 2821 Life Celebration Luncheon Sunday, April 12, the Friends in Christ will have a celebration lunch In memory of Shanna Grinstead, 12:15-2:00 pm in the Parlor.
biblical literacy Asbury University Classes are available for all levels of learning. Brochures are available at the Welcome Centers and on the website: www.asburytulsa.org Spare Your People Lord - Precept Tuesdays, April 4 - April 25 from 9:30-11:30 am in Rm 2820. Teacher: Nancy Staab; Cost: $15. Hebrews: The Superiority of God’s Revelation Tuesdays, April 7 - May 30, 10:00-11:30 am. Cost: $5; Teacher: Gloria Phillips. This course is open to men and women. Unique in its use of Beit Midrash, Jewish study format, with each table researching the scriptures under the leadership of a facilitator, then a class-developed conclusion and facilitator recap. Ephesians Wednesdays, 6:00 - 8:00 pm through July 26. Rm: 1502; Teacher: Don Herrold.
care and support
Hints for Job Seekers – Thursday, April 27, 7-8:30 pm in Parlor. Making a good first impression is critical in seeking employment — both on paper and in person. Let an expert in the employment field share with you the things that make a difference. Resume assistance is also available. Contact BLWright1@yahoo.com. Prayer Card Ministry Creative people are needed for a new prayer card ministry. If you have skills in drawing, calligraphy, scrapbooking, card stamping, and/ or MS Publisher, call Ruth at 392-1146. Minimal time required. Personalized Greeting Cards If you know someone who is going through a tough time, has a long-term illness, is receiving chemo, etc., and would like to receive personalized encouragement cards, please call Ruth Winn at 392-1146. New Alzheimer’s Support Group Third Thursday, starting April 20, from 1:30-
3:00 pm in Room 2821. Christian hope, support and education for friends and family of those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia. Cancer Support Group Second Sunday of each month, 4:00-6:00 pm, Parlor - For those living with cancer and their family and friends Bipolar/Depression Support Group Second and fourth Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1508 - For persons living with bipolar disorder or depression Divorce Recovery Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 2319 - For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma. Divorce Rebuilding Thursdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 2319 - For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren First and third Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 pm, Rm 1508. Family to Family Usually meets the fourth Tuesday of the month, 1:30-3:30 pm, Parlor. For family members or caregivers of people affected by a mental illness. Asbury Bear Bags Asbury Bears are not just for little kids anymore! 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 Beth at 392-1116.
children Registration forms for all children’s activities are available in the preschool and elementary lobbies. Core Hours for Childcare Parents who are involved in AU classes during these core hours will have childcare provided with no reservations needed: Sundays 7:45 am - 12:15 pm Mondays 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Tuesdays 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Tuesdays 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Wednesdays 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Thursdays 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm H2O Amazing Race Scavenger Hunt Saturday, April 1 from 1:00-5:00 pm. Cost: $10. You and some of your H2O friends are a team! You get a bag, a Polaroid camera and a little spending money. You also get a van (driver included) and a list of weird and wacky people, places and things to find inside the church and outside in the world. If you and your friends are up for Polaroids, prizes, and pretty crazy places, then come see if you can win the great H2O Scavenger Hunt!!! The paid registration deadline is Sunday, march 26. Parents are needed to help with this event.
Call Jennifer at 392-1170 if you can help. Sizzlin’ Summer Sign-Up Sunday April 2 from 8:00 am - 12:30 pm in the Elementary Gathering Area. Starting bright and early, tables will be set up in the gathering areas with enrollment forms for every summer activity planned for your children in 2006! See you there! 5.6 Murdock Villa Service Project Sunday, April 2 from 12:30-3:30 pm. Cost: $5 for CiCi’s Pizza. Up to ten kids each month can participate. Call Betsy at 392-1166 to sign up. Adult volunteers are always appreciated. Easter Egg Hunt Candy Drive Through Sunday April 2. The annual Family Easter Egg Hunt, scheduled for Palm Sunday, April 9 is for children two years old through 6th grade, which means we enjoy the participation of hundreds of youngsters! With that in mind, please consider helping out by donating a bag or two of small, individuallywrapped, chewy-type candy. (No hard candy or soft chocolate, please). Or, we can accept other stuffers, such as stickers, tattoos, and other small toy items as well. If you have any questions, you may call Deana at 392-1169. Donation boxes have been provided in the preschool and elementary lobby areas for your gifts. Thank you so much! Annual Family Easter Egg Hunt Sunday, April 9 from 2:00-4:00 pm. Make plans now to join us for all the fun and excitement! There are three age-level hunts for all children through grade six, taking place consecutively within the fenced playground areas. There will also be a variety of inflatable games to enjoy while your child waits for his or her turn to hunt! Cookies and lemonade will be served throughout the afternoon. Don’t miss it! Preparing for Adolescence Workshop Wednesdays, March 29 through April 26 from 6:45-8:00 pm in Rm 2901. Cost: $8. This is a 5week course designed especially for our fifth graders. We will discuss the topics of inferiority, conformity, puberty, romantic love, and identity from a biblical perspective. Our reference book is Preparing for Adolescence by Dr. James Dobson. Parental permission is required. Call 392-1166 for more information. Adults are encouraged to attend to help with this class. Rock 5.6 Road Trip Saturday, April 29 from 6:00 am - Midnight. Cost: $60. Hey 5th and 6th graders! Come with us as we pile onto a charter bus and head for Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington! The cost includes transportation, gate admission, and the official Road Trip T-shirt. Kids will need to bring additional money for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and for souvenirs, etc. The paid registration deadline is Monday, April 17 or until the trip is full. Don’t wait...register today! Parents are needed to help with this event. Call 392-1166 for more information.
Asbury Family Picnic/Campout Friday and Saturday, April 21 and 22, Bluff Landing Campground in Broken Arrow. (See more under Recreation). Wednesday Night Live Wednesdays through April 26 from 7:00 - 8:00 pm. For 4 year olds through 4th graders. Our action-packed evening will start with highenergy games in the main building, followed by worship in the Chapel - kid style. This overall program is designed to help children build character and develop qualities that will help them live productive and fulfilled lives as followers of Jesus Christ. Dismissal is at 8:00 pm from the Chapel. We can’t wait to see your kiddos (and parents if you like) in worship with us soon! Children’s Choirs Wednesdays through April 26 from 6:00 - 6:50 pm. Children’s choirs are for children ages three through sixth grade. Different choirs will be singing in all our Sunday morning services during the spring. Registration forms for NEW choir members are available in each choir room. Returning choir members do not need to re-register. We are so excited to be working with your children again! Spread the word! Children’s Choir is not just singin’. We play musical games, instruments and have lots of fun! Call Marti at 392-1147 for more information. Vacation Bible School Training Required training for volunteers will be held for all previous and new volunteers. Come learn how we can keep VBS kids safe and learn about what VBS looks like this year. Saturday, May 20 from 8:30 - 10:00 am or Wednesday, June 14 from 6:00-7:30 pm. Call 392-1159 with any questions you might have. VBS - 5.6 Challenge Camp Sunday, June 25 from 3:00-8:00 pm, MondayThursday, June 26-29 from 9:00 am - 12:15 pm, and Friday, June 30 from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm. Cost: $25 a child. No family discount available. There is no registration deadline, but in order to be guaranteed your T-shirt size, please register by June 1. VBS - Arctic Edge Monday-Thursday, June 26-29 from 9:00 am 12:15 pm. Cost: $10 per child with $25 family maximum, applying to preschool through new 4th graders. No registration deadline, but in order to be guaranteed T-shirt size and crew placement, please register by June 1. Register online at asburyvbs.org or pick up a form in one of the gathering areas. VBS Family Fun Night The week’s activities will come to a close with our Family Fun Night, Thursday, June 29 from 5:30-8:30 pm. It’s an awesome time to celebrate the fabulous week of VBS, hang out with friends and family, play on the cool inflatables, and eat, eat, eat!
discipleship Spiritual Gift Connections Sessions are held the second Thursday of each month in Room 2821 from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. Focus on volunteer opportunities at Asbury that use your Spiritual Gifts and personality traits. You are requested to complete the Spiritual Gif ts Inventory prior to attending this class. Call the registration hotline at 392-1191 to register for one of the Thursday sessions.
marriage & family Milestone Wedding Anniversaries Email your June or July Milestone Anniversary (5, 10, 15, 20, etc.) to patticooper@cox.net or call 392-1146. Weekend to Remember May 5-7 at the Double Tree Warren Place. Cost: $109. This memorable getaway for couples, hosted by FamilyLife Ministries, is a time to learn practical skills and biblical principles to strengthen and re-energize your marriage or prepare you for your upcoming marriage. For information call 1-800-FL-Today or go to weekendtoremember.com. To save $30 per person on registration, contact Carol Grisham at carol0315@sbcglobal.net
membership Asbury Exploration Come to one of these classes to learn more about becoming a member of Asbury. Sunday, April 2, from 12:30-2:30 pm. Call 392-1191 to register. Childcare available.
men Men’s Prayer Breakfast Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 am in the CLC. Join the Men’s Ministry for a delicious breakfast , meaningful worship and lifechanging prayer! Cost: $3/person April 5 Dub Ambrose, speaker April 12 Mark Hoffman, speaker April 19 Bill Johnson, speaker April 26 Mark Springer, speaker Home Improvement Work Day Saturday, April 15. Meet at 8:00 for planning...then off to work! The Home Improvement ministry serves widows and single moms within the Asbury family. Our Men’s Minsitry volunteers make themselves available every other month to help folks out with minor home repairs and/or home improvement projects. (See our Women’s section for details on how you can apply to have work done). Call 3921142 for more information).
missions/outreach Missions Dinner April 18 at 6:00 pm in the CLC. News and information about our regional and global CALENDAR
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outreach effort s. Call Missy at 392-1163 for reservations by April 13. Walk In Her Shoes Tea Sisters in Service will be sponsoring a tea, Sunday, April 30, from 3:00-4:30 pm in the Parlor. Please call Missy at 392-1163 for reservations. Come and hear about this international organization that supports women in some of the most difficult places in the world. Global Outreach Prayer Ministry News and prayer requests from our missionaries and ministries are sent each week to our prayer ministry list. If you would like to join and become a prayer intercessor for those serving around the world, contact Missy at 392-1163. Global Outreach Ministry Teams These teams specialize in certain areas and all are open to anyone having an interest in those areas. They are as follows: Caspian Ministry (work in Azerbaijan), Central America Ministry (work in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Guatemala), College Missions Ministry, Communications, Estonia Ministry; Kami -Tanzania Ministry, International Student Ministry, Missionary Care, and Prayer. If you need further information call the Global Outreach office, 391-1117. Mentor Moms/Young Lives First and second Tuesdays of the month, 7:009:00 pm in the Parlor. This is a support group for teenage moms, sponsored by Young Life.
missions/vim . The first three Volunteer-in-Mission teams for 2006 are: Cookson Hills (Oklahoma) April 21-22 Estonia June 2-12, Lighthouse (Tallinn) - $2,400 Costa Rica June 17-24, Construction and MBS - $1,000 Azerbaijan June 19-30, Youth Work and Construction $2,000 Estonia June 22 - July 7, Camp Gideon - $2,400 Tanzania, East Africa July 6 - 17, Medical - $2,600 (FULL) Estonia August, Outreach Assistance - $2,500 Cookson Hills (Oklahoma) Fall, 2006 Tanzania September 14-25, Construction and water well work - $2,500 Estonia Late September, Business Mission - $2,400 Monterrey, Mexico October 14-21, Construction and MBS - $900 Rio Bravo, Mexico November 1-5, Medical and Construction $500 Estonia 29
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December 28 - January 7, Camp Gideon $2,400 For further details about Volunteer-inMission opportunities, contact Marilene Long, 392-1164 or mlong@asburytulsa.org
music Organ and Brass Concert This concert has been rescheduled for Sunday, April 2 in the Sanctuary, 6:00 p.m. Service of Darkness Friday, April 14 at 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary. The Chancel Choir and Orchestra present a musical picture of the suffering and death of Jesus Christ, along with meditations by Pastor Tom Harrison. Chancel Choir Wednesdays, 7:00-9:00 pm, Choir Room Asbury Singing Ambassadors Tuesdays, 1:00 pm, Choir Room Orchestra/Concert Band Wednesdays, 7:00-9:00 pm, Rm 1510 Celebration Ringers Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 pm, Rm 2506 Asbury Ringers Wednesdays, 6:00-7:00 pm, Rm 2506 Perpetual Light Thursdays, 10:00 am - noon, Rm 2506 Carillon Quartet Wednesdays, 5:00-6:00 pm, Rm 2506 Handbell Ensemble Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 pm, Rm 2506 New Creation Ringers Wednesdays, 4:45-5:30 pm, Rm 2504 Wesley Ringers Sundays, 4:30-5:30 pm, Rm 2506 Asbury Power & Light Sundays, 8:15-9:15 am, Rm 1510 Brass Quintet Tuesdays, 7:30-9:00 pm, Rm 1510 String Ensemble Wednesdays, 6:00-7:00 pm, Rm 1507 Wednesdays, 8:00-9:00 pm, Rm 1507 Dixieland Band Thursdays, 2:00-3:00 pm, Rm 1510
prayer Mission Possible 24-Hour Prayer Vigil Begins Friday, April 28 at 7:00 pm and concludes Saturday, April 29 at 7:00 pm. Altar Prayer If you would like someone to pray with you during Holy Communion or right after the service, please come to the altar rail at the front of the sanctuary. 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. College Moms in Touch Prayer Time Wednesdays, 11:45 am - 12:45 pm, Rm 1506 Mason Chapel Prayer Room Accessible during core hours. You can enter the room from the outside entrance of the southeast side of the Chapel.
Prayer Journals Available in Gazebo Asbury Prayer Journals now available in the Gazebo. This valuable tool is filled with scripture and resources designed to enhance your personal prayer time, plus a section for keeping sermon notes.
recovery Celebrate Recovery Mondays: Dinner at 6:00 pm; Worship from 7:00-8:00 pm; Small Groups from 8:00-9:00 pm; Dessert from 9:00-9:30 pm. Hiding any hurts, habits or hangups? God never intended for you to live in bondage. Come join this supportive group of people each Monday night at 6:00 pm. Childcare available. Celebrate Recovery Childcare Volunteers needed. Time commitment is one Monday evening per month from 6:45 pm to 9:10 pm. Please call 392-1103 if you can help.
recreation Asbury Recreation Center - Hours Sundays 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Mondays 8:30 am - 9:30 am Tuesdays 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Wednesdays 8:30 am - 9:30 am 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Thursday 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Fridays 8:30 am - 9:30 am Single Adults Volleyball Tuesdays, 7:00-9:00, Gym No children, please. Co-Ed Adult Volleyball Sundays, 2:00-5:00 pm, Gym Must be 18 and above to participate. No children, please. Open Gym Thursday, 6:00-8:00 pm, Gym Open to all members of the ARC to shoot some hoops, walk, run or workout. Must have a membership on file. Age 13-18 must have a parent’s signature on file. No one under the age of 13 may use the workout room. No one under the age of 13 ins allowed in the gym unless supervised by a responsible adult. Senior Sit and Fit Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9:00-9:30 am, Gym. Come join a time of stretching with fun and fellowship. Walk in the Gym with Him Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:30-9:00 am in the gym. Come join a time of power walking with fun and fellowship. Lifestyle Weight Change with Christ Wednesdays from 7:00-8:00 pm. This class and Bible study is for men and women interested in setting goals and learning to use exercise and God’s Word to build a healthier way of living. Contact Crista Grimes at cristagrimes@sbcglobal.net Asbury Family Picnic/Campout Friday and Saturday, April 21 and 22, Bluff Landing Campground in Broken Arrow. The fun
begins at 3:00 p.m. on Friday. Cost: $7 per campsite. Make plans now to be a part of one of the coolest, most awesome outdoor experiences this side of the Rockies! You can arrive at any time, stay as long as you like, and leave when you’re ready. The event will be held at Bluff Landing, just 15 miles east of the church. You provide your own camping equipment and food, and we’ll provide opportunities for canoeing, fishing, hayrides, games...you name it! If it’s fun, we’ll be doing it. No reservations are required. The event is sponsored by our Children’s and Recreation Ministries, and hosted by Venture Crew 909, Cub Pack 10, and Troop 10. Great fellowship, great friends, and great memories await you! Contact Bob Walters at LWALT6884@cox.net.
seniors Sunset Years Symposium Saturday, April 8 from 8:30 am - 2:30 pm in the CLC and Parlor. Cost: $10, includes lunch, refreshments and workshop materials. Deadline for Registration: April 5. Call 392-1191 to register. Attention Senior Adults and Caregivers. What arrangements have you made regarding future finances, wills and trusts? How about long-term care or funeral arrangements? Will taking care of your remaining business when you’ve gone home be a comfort to your loved ones, or a cause for anxiety and stress? You are the one who decides, and information to help make those decisions will be available to you. Asbury Singing Ambassadors This senior adult choir rehearses Tuesdays at 1:00 pm in the Choir Room. ‘Tweenagers Thursday, April 27 at 10:30 am in the CLC. Program: The State of the Church, with Dr. Tom Harrison. Call Doni at 492-1771 to make your reservations by noon Monday, April 24.
singles
Singles Meet and Greet Sundays from 8:40-9:10 am or 10:20-10:50 am in the CLC. All singles are invited. Incredible Pizza Party Saturday, March 18 from 6:00-8:00 pm ASM Singles Luncheon Sunday, April 30 from noon - 2 pm in the Parlor ASM Neighborhood Ministry Saturday, April 1 from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm We are all called to make a Kingdom difference and to reach out beyond ourselves to our community and the world. The Single Adults Neighborhood Ministry plan for April is to take an Easter Egg Hunt, with all the bells and whistles, to our apartment neighbors just across the street! Our goal is to help build a stronger community and to reach out to children and their families in a spirit of fellowship and the love of Christ. Come ready to work and play!
Singles Day Trip Saturday, April 22 - Woolaroc Park in Bartlesville. Tickets may be purchased at the Meet and Greet table in the CLC by April 19. Join us for a fun-filled day at Woolaroc Park and Phillips Museum in Bartlesville. We will be carpooling from the church. ASM Memorial Day Picnic Monday, May 29 from 3:00-7:00 pm at Haikey Creek Park, 121st and Garnett. Join us for an afternoon of good food, fun and fellowship on Memorial Day. The picnic is potluck, so bring your favorite dish to share. We’ll start eating around 4:00 p.m. Singles Bible Study Mondays, 7:00-9:00 pm, Rm 2820 Divorce Recovery Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 2319 - For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma. Divorce Rebuilding Thursdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 2319 - For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce.
students 10th, 11th & 12th Breakaway Wednesdays, 6:30-9:00 pm - Breakaway Area Join us every Wednesday (except the first Wednesday of the month) for a time of connection, worship, and God, and some nights of just random fun. Don’t miss the food and hangout time afterwards. 7th, 8th, & 9th 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! 7th, 8th, & 9th Grade Bible Study Every Wednesday night except the first one of the month through April 26 from 6:30-8:00 pm. Come to the Student Cafe, hang out, have fun, and study what God’s Word has for us. Marsha will lead the 7th and 8th grade study, and Mark will lead 9th. It’s going to be aweinspiring. You won’t want to miss it! Sunday Night Small Groups 7th, 8th from 5:30-7:00 pm at Asbury 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th from 6:00-7:30 pm in homes. Don’t miss out on being a part of a small group! It’s a place to grow in your relationship with Jesus, have some accountability, and just have fun! Sign up in Student Ministries area. No small groups April 16 - It’s Easter! Also, 7th, 8th, and 9th grade small groups end April 30. They will start again in September! 7th Grade Confirmation Parent Meeting Sunday, April 2 from 5:30-7:00 pm in the CLC. If your student is participating in 7th grade confirmation, don’t miss this mandatory meeting. Metro Worship Wednesday, April 5 from 7:00-8:30 pm. for 7th-
12th graders. Come join youth from all over the city in a night to just worship Jesus. We meet the first Wednesday night of every month from 7:00-8:30 pm at Believers. If you need a ride, meet at Asbury at 6:30 pm. W e’ll be back by 9:00 pm. UMW Scholarship Program The United Methodist Women of Asbury are pleased to announce that application packets for their 2006-2007 college scholarship award are now available in the church office. The program will provide $1,200 to a young Asbury woman entering college in the fall of 2006. Applications must be returned to the church office no later than Sunday, April 9. The recipient will be announced June 1. Student Ministry Prayer Walk Wednesday, April 12 from 6:30-8:30 pm. Come celebrate and spend some time in prayer for the new building campagin with other fellow youth! Meet in the Student Ministries area for pizza, worship, and then walk over to the ice rink for prayers outside and inside. We will return to the Student Ministries area by 8:30 pm. Graduation Pictures Due Please turn in ONE senior picture and ONE baby picture to the Student Ministry Office by Wednesday, April 12. W e’d also love to have candid shots of different activities over the years. Be sure your name is clearly marked on each pic! All Night Blast Registrations Due ALL NIGHT BLAST IS COMING Friday, April 21. It’s the only time we stay up all night and do lots of really cool stuff. Watch for registrations coming out April 2. They are due back April 19. Be sure an pick one up for you and your friends. ANB Rocks! Grad Sabbath Sunday, April 23. Finals. Prom. College Paperwork. Homework. W ork. StuCo. Sports. Time with friends. Graduation. There are a zillion things going on and everything has to be done NOW. What would it be like to take a breather to really rest and reconnect. This is what the Grad Sabbath is all about. It’s a time to get away for a Sunday afternoon and just breathe. Cost is $15. Watch for registration. Disciple Camp Registration Disciple is a discipleship camp for rising 7th, 8th and 9th grade students that involves really awesome worship, small groups, ropes course elements, recreation, free time, and a whole bunch of really cool students. Disciple registrations will be available April 2 and be due April 30 ( without a late fee). The cost for camp is $205 ($230 if turned in af ter April 30) and a $100 deposit is due with the registration. The balance is due May 21. Be sure to pick up a registration! Confirmation Service Sunday, April 30 at 6:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Don’t miss this exciting service as we welcome all our confirmands as new members of Asbury! (Mandatory rehearsal for the NEW MEMBERS
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Confirmation service is Tuesday, April 25 from 5:30-7:00 pm.) College Bible Study Each Sunday night from 6:00-7:15 pm in the College Room. Come learn about God with other college students. College Sunday Night Dinners 7:15-9:00 pm, Student Ministry Cafe. Share a home-cooked meal with other college students.
women Mothers’ Fellowship Mondays from 9:30-11:30 am in the Parlor. Cost: $20. Childcare is available. “Bad Girls of the Bible and What We Can Learn From Them.” Book and workbook by Liz Curtis Higgs. “For ten years I studied bunches of biblical role models and finally realized what we had in common: ZIP. Sarah was so faithful. Esther was so courageous. Mary was so innocent. I was so none-of-the-above. Then I happened upon Jezebel, and something inside me clicked. I identified with her pushy personality. I understood her need for control. I empathized with her angry outbursts, and I began to wonder. Could those Bad Girls from the past teach us how to be Good Girls in the present. I’m here to tell you...YES!” UMW April Salute Luncheon Thursday, April 6 from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm, Lunch in CLC. All United Methodist Women are invited to a very special luncheon to honor and celebrate the service of our most mature and faithful volunteers for years and years of service through the UMW organization. Lunch will be provided by the Women’s Council, and our guest speaker will be Rev. Darlene Johnson. This year’s theme is “Hospitality - An Attitude of the Heart.” Only UMW members who are 70 and older will need to RSVP by March 29. Please call Debbie Wallis at 392-1142 or email dwallis@asburytulsa.org. 2 X 2 Mentor Training Friday, March 24 from 6:30-9:00 pm, Parlor Home Improvement Work Day Saturday, April 15. Our Men’s Ministry volunteers make themselves available every other month to help out widows and single moms with minor home repairs and/or home improvement projects. Just pick up a request form at the South Welcome Desk, or call your request in to Debbie Wallis (392-1142) in the Adult Ministries Office by April 5. A Home Improvement volunteer will contact you before the work day and make final arrangements to get the job(s) done! Whirlwind for Willard Friday, April 21 from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm in the CLC. Come one, come all and be a part of our annual Whirlwind for Willard Game Day! Hosted by Asbury’s United Methodist Women, this awesome, fun-packed fundraiser benefits the Frances Willard Home. If you like to play games, then bring those and your friends! Tickets may be purchased in the church office for $7.50. (Deadline is April 17). A delicious lunch is 31
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included. Women of the Word Wednesday from 10:00-11:00 am in Rm 1502. Rev. Darlene Johnson, teacher. Phone Buddies Ladies, do you want a “cheer me up” with your morning coffee? We have ladies that can fill that need by being your own “phone buddy!” Call 392-1122. Lea or Shirley will return the call and get you set up! Arts and Crafts Mondays, 9:30 am - 2:00 pm, Rm 2820. Women who enjoy crafts are invited to come any Monday morning...come and go any time. Bring lunch to share. Contact Beverly Clarke.
worship Online Worship Did you know that you can watch the 9:15 and 11:00 a.m. Sunday services online as they are occurring? Go to www.asburytulsa.org then click on “Watch Sermons” (by Tom’s picture). If you cannot attend worship, you can log on and share the experience. Or if there is a sermon that you wish someone else had been able to hear, send them to our website where several weeks of sermons are archived. Maundy Thursday Communion Thursday, April 13 at 7:00 pm, Mason Chapel.
Learning from the Journey by John C. Westervelt One lesson I have learned over and over again, year after year, is the importance of trying. Recently, I made some foundation vent covers out of 1/8 inch thick Masonite for my mother-in-law’s house. I cut these to size on my noisy band saw. (A band saw has a continuous blade that rolls on two wheels.) In the middle 1970s, I started wood carving as therapy for some depression over concern about losing my job with the completion of the Apollo program. I was going to a friend’s house across town to cut boot blanks out of two inch thick basswood. At the time, I wished I had a band saw. For Christmas 1978, my wife Nelda put $50 in a band saw savings account, and my daughter Mary Kim added $20. Gifts to the account continued on Father’s day, birthday, and Christmas 1979. In January 1980 I bought a Sears Craftsman band saw. Now in my late-seventies, arthritis has slowed my hand work, so the band saw is not used as often. Several months ago, the saw developed a loud, rasping, groaning sound. I wondered if after 26 years a bearing had worn out. After sawing the Masonite, I decided it was time to try to fix my beloved saw. Gathering my courage, I unplugged the electric cord, removed the blade cover, and vacuumed the sawdust that filled every nook and cranny. Turning the wheels by hand, I could see that the blade was running on the back edge of the lower wheel. Next, I could see that the wheel was not in alignment with the end of the shaft driven by the motor. With further inspection, I found that the set screw that holds the wheel to the shaft was loose. Over the years, I accumulated the tools I needed to maintain my household and its equipment. One of these, a small investment, was a set of Allen wrenches. These are hard steel with a hexagon cross section and often bent in a right angle. An Allen wrench fits inside the set screw of my band saw for tightening the screw. After aligning the lower wheel with the end of the rotating shaft, I tightened the set screw. With this adjustment, the noise ceased. This story shares a life lesson. The secret to fixing the band saw was the willingness to begin by trying and thinking. The trying and thinking continued sequentially until the problem was solved. Of course, you also must have the right tool. Most of life’s problems are with relationships, rather than with saws. Still, the method for a solution is similar. Just begin. Try. Think about it and try again. In this case, the right tool could well be Proverbs 16:3--“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” Life’s journey, with Jesus as my Companion, has been an able teacher. More Tidings stories by John Westervelt at www.jwestervelt.com
Welcome to Asbury... Marilyn Roberts
Perkins and Katie Green
Mark Harrison, Michael, Matthew, Jordan, Stephan and Hannah Nancy Haswell
Tom McBride Laura Baldwin and Nick Hawkins
Martin Imrisek Paul Applegate
Chris and Tricia Riggs, Lauren and Kiarsten
Sarah Crider and D.J. Lees Von Lofland Mary Ann Kirk
Jack and Lisa Charvat, Olivia and Jacqueline Doug and Lisa Whitlock Stella Caruthers Kyle Posey
Fanceil Yahola
Kenneth Simmons
Steve and Wendy Wrona, Jonathan and Jacob
William and Esther Wright, Billy and Johanna
Terry Wright
Jennifer Thurston
Left: Jim and Debbie Stark Sarah and Lauren NEW MEMBERS
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Bill and Deanna Stephenson
Jim and Rhonda Williams
Len and Deanna Villalon, Alyssa and Eva
Diana Mendoza, Jeniffer and Larissa Brock and Diane King Craig and Mindy Stephens, Mitchell and Meagan
Mike and Lynne Vadok, Meghan and Kelley
David and Linda Cook
Wayne and Carolyn Sutton and Brandon
Ryan and Nhi Schupback, Aiden and LIam
John and Sara Parsons and Alexis
Bruce and Dana Thames, Kirby Ann and Haley Left: Peggy Hill
Right: Jacob and Casie Cahalen 33
NEW MEMBERS
John and Lin Gray
We’re Glad You’re Here!
We rejoice... with those who have experienced the joy of a new baby in their family:
In appreciation... Dear Asbury Family, What a blessing it was to receive your care package this Christmas! It was a great addition to the monthly encouragement cards you send. The response to my request was overwhelming and came from all over the US. I received boxes from the east coast, west coast, and of course, the mid-west home area. Your generosity and care helped touch the lives of hundreds of soldiers in our battalion. For all of us, being away from home during the Christmas season is already hard. Any thoughtfulness really helps improve the holiday blues. I was able to distribute most of the bulk packages to a remote location where some of our soldiers have rather harsh conditions. Thank you for letting me be an extension of your love this year. I am proud to say I am the proud product of the youth ministry of Asbury, growing up in the faith. It is such a treat to hear form you. I send regular emails to my dear friend and spiritual mentor, Dick Read. Asbury will always be my “home” church and I look forward to “coming home” later this year. Serving ONE NATION UNDER GOD, William Jerrod Glenn Ch (Cpt.), USA Battalion Chaplain I want to express my sincere thanks & appreciation to my friends at Asbury for the many expressions of sympathy shown to me & my family upon the death of my husband, Jack Anthony in January. Thank you for all the beautiful flowers, cards and the many donations made to Asbury in his name. I especially want to thank my Chancel Choir family for the love & support thay have shown me over the years of Jack’s long illness and for the meals they provided when my family was here. Thank you Bill & Hart for the extra measure of love you showed to us. I will always be grateful. Barbara Anthony & Family
We celebrate...
Brynn Olivia Stoner Daughter of Steve and Kim Stoner Sister of Dillon and Ally February 8, 3006 Claire Kristine McKinnon Daughter of Mitch and Lori McKinnon Sister of Jake and Meredith February 10, 2006 Ezekiel James Grundler Son of Ulysses and Deirdre Grundler Grandson of Skip and Dyanne Sidner February 13, 2006 Reagan Kinnley Bennett Daughter of Micah and Jason Bennett, Granddaughter of Michael and Karen Martin February 19, 2006
George & Helen Schneider April 7, 1956 50 Years
Lillian Elizabeth Bentley Daughter of Bo and Misty Bentley Sister of Charlie February 27, 2006 Evan Daniel Migliore Son of Roscoe and Stacey Migliore Brother of Channing and Abby February 28, 2006 Meritt Alden Brown Son of Kristen and Steve Brown Grandson of John and Janet Bensinger and Ron and Shari Graham March 1, 2006
We remember... Darryl & Doris McRight April 27, 1956 50 Years Charles & Ann Hearne April 16, 1961 45 Years Mike & Karen Wackenhuth March 7, 1981 25 Years Glen & Denise Grusendorf April 5, 1991 15 Years Congratulations to all couples who are celebrating Milestone Anniversaries. Report your Milestone Anniversary to patticooper@cox.net or call 392-1146.
and pray God’s peace for those who have lost loved ones: Charles Copeland January 16, 2006 James Thomas Wood Infant son of Grant and Deana Wood February 14, 2006 Stanley Dixon Husband of Dolly March 3, 2006 Elvie Dearing Husband of Mildred Dearing March 7, 2006 Doris Briscoe Mother of Nancy Posey and Sharon Miller Grandmother of Brenna, Brooke, Blake, Peyton and Austin March 12, 2006 FAMILY ROOM 34
Asbury’s Faceted-Glass Windows The beautiful facted-glass windows were designed and created by Pepe Mendez, a local craftsman. The large window of Jesus was placed over the front entrance to the church at the Sheridan location and for many years served as an inspiration to all who viewed it from both within and without. Now a part of the Mason Chapel, the “stained glass windows” continue to bless those who view them, and serve as a reminder of our wonderful heritage.
The Nativity (Matthew 18:25; Luke 2:1-20) donated by Mr. & Mrs. Don Chandler, in honor of their chidlren, Kelly, Bret, Caron and Cory
The Resurrection (Matthew 28:6; Luke 24:34) donated by Mr & Mrs. Donald Monchil in honor of their son, Allen J. Monchil Come to Me ( Matthew 11:28) donated by Rex L. & Gladys Smith
Ruth and Naomi (book of Ruth) donated by John W. Westervelt family, Wallace Westervelt family, Lloyd Boatright, Jr. family and others in memory of Ruth Westervelt
Jesus and the Children (Matthew 19:14) donated in honor of Wm. C. & Jayne Mason
35 THE FAMILY ROOM
Jesus on the Mount (Matthew 5:1-7:28) donated by the Weddington family.
Jesus and the Woman at the Well (John 4:7-26) donated by Mr. and Mrs. G.P. Baber in memory of their mothers and fathers.
Last Supper (Matthew 26:26-30) donated by Barbara & Jack Anthony & family in memory of Sue and Oren Koonce
Jesus’ Healing Miracles (Matthew 3) donated by Mr. & Mrs. James Norton in memory of Fred Mitchell
Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) donated by Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Washburn in honor of their son, David
Baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:13-15) donated by Mr. & Mrs. Bill Litchult