Asbury Tidings - The Book of Acts

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ONTINUING OUR STUDY FROM THE BOOK OF THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES, WE WILL LOOK AT THESE FIVE THEMES IN AUGUST: FLEXIBILITY (6:1-7), PERSPECTIVE (7:1-53), ETERNAL LIFE (7:54-60), PERSECUTION (8:1-8), AND UNRIGHTEOUSNESS (8:9-25).

Our Jewish tour guide in Israel says: “Jesus gave eight Beatitudes. The ninth is, ‘Blessed are the flexible for they shall not be broken.’” There is much wisdom in this. It’s hard to have a good marriage if the two do not learn flexibility. Jesus was perturbed by the rigidity in which some of the religious leaders approached life. Flexibility means we can adjust, adapt, and recalibrate. It recognizes that things change, and we must grow, too. Jesus described not putting new wine into old wineskins (they would burst). We encounter flexibility in Acts 6:1-7. We also meet the man we will be discussing for four weeks: Stephen.

Acts 7:1-53 has a brilliant “faith history” story.

Our faith never begins or ends with you or with me.

Others have handed the baton of faith to us. We are compelled to enlist others to hand it off, too. The Christian faith is one generation from being extinct.

When Stephen makes his defense he does not start with himself. He goes back through the Old Testament and describes how God worked in various ways in the past. Hebrews 11 is similar in nature.

I’m reminded of the quote: “There are two types of people in the world—those who are short-range thinkers and those who are long-range thinkers.”

Having a bigger perspective is essential for every Christian. Stephen models it in Acts 7.

Stephen was not earth-bound. He knew that

CONTENTS 3 4 5 9 11 12 16

What’s Happening Roadmap & Discipleship Roadmap Schedule Are You a Kingdom Person?

Coming Home to God SummerSong 2009 Venue’s New Service

17 19 20 22 23 25 33 34

something far more glorious was in his future. Acts 7:54-60 introduces us to Eternal Life. Paul frequently talked about the difference this perspective makes in our lives. I Corinthians 15 is one of the best such texts!

Not everyone likes people of faith. The most perfect person who ever lived was crucified. Stephen became the first martyr. His death unleashed a persecution upon the church that has not abated. I’m always reminded of this famous quote: “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” Stephen’s life was an enormous witness to Saul (8:1-8) who became “Paul.” This text explains why Paul always felt he was “the chief of all the sinners.” He “ravaged” the church.

Finally, we are introduced to a person who was quite unrighteous. “Simony” is a term which emerged in our language to describe a person who would try to buy or sell a church office. In Acts 8:925 we meet the original Simon. We would say about him, “He was sadder, but wiser.”

Please use your daily Bible Reading and Prayer Journal in the month of August as we go through Acts. We want to help you develop a biblical worldview so you can better love and serve Jesus Christ.

If we don’t know what to believe, we won’t know how to live.

See you Sundays in August!

Dr. Tom Harrison

Asbury Kids Serving Christ Legacy of a Life Well Lived How Many Jobs You Got? Grandpa John My Life: Kimani & Victoria Opportunities New Members Family Room

Asbury Tidings is a monthly publication designed to tell stories of lives being transformed by the power of Jesus Christ.

You may read back issues by visiting www.asburytulsa.org

Managing Editor Tara Lynn Thompson taralynnthompson.com

Graphic Designer Nicole McMahan nicole@lookmacreative.com

Photographer Don Kreutzweiser donsimages.com

Guest Contributors Kim Beair • Christy Capps Victoria Fowler • Rod Giles • Jim Lenderman Marty McBroom • Marty Morris • Spencer Smith John Westervelt • Kimani Williams • Dwight Yoder

DWIGHT YODER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

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ost of us do not have the opportuni- hundreds of people in the ty to fully appreciate all of the min- course of a month. They work istry work that takes place through with people in times of need as

Asbury. Because this work is made possible by your well as in development ministries gifts of money and time, I thought you would enjoy seeing an overview. Any attempt to do this will be incomplete, but I will try to be representative.

Tom occasionally notes that my training as an engineer results in a form of thinking that is different from what is often present on church staffs. Part of that is a tendency to think in bullet lists, and that is how I’ll present the overview. Following the list I will discuss how all this activity impacts Asbury as an organization.

such as Couple To Couple.

• Mason chapel hosts weddings and funerals. Asbury averages three to four funerals per month.

• In recognition of July 4 we hosted the Americana music presentation with over 1,800 in attendance.

• Every week, apart from Sunday, hundreds of Asbury members participate in Bible studies and other gatherings. There are times when every room in our facility is in use.

On a typical Sunday: • We have close to 3,500 people in worship in one of five different worship styles.

• Over 1,200 adults gather in adult discipleship communities.

• About 900 children participate in children’s ministry, supported by 32 staff and over 350 volunteers • Most of our 1,250 parking spaces on the main campus are occupied.

• Over 500 youth participate in our student ministry small group program. Our youth ministry is supported by five full-time staff, four to eight interns, and many adult volunteers.

• 285 students, supported by 65 adult sponsors, went on spring break mission trips. Asbury members funded this with special gifts of $85,000.

• 936 children attended VBS, one-third of which were not from Asbury. It was supported by over 230 adult volunteers and almost 200 teenagers. 26 decisions for Christ were made. The VBS kids raised more than $4,000 for our Estonia missions work.

• Celebrate Recovery engages over 200 people weekly with more than half from outside Asbury.

• In 2009 we will send 14 teams on foreign mission trips. In addition there will be many projects in Tulsa, in Oklahoma, and in the nation that will engage hundreds of Asbury members in ministry and missions.

• Asbury supports dozens of missionaries, mission agencies, and ministry and service organizations with financial support.

• Our care and marriage ministry touches the lives of

The list could go on and on but my point is that every year Asbury impacts the lives of thousands of people beginning with our own congregation and extending through Tulsa and around the globe. Discipleship is developed, people are helped and cared for, and people are saved.

Some things we do could not have been done at our previous location. Our new facility (over 300,000 sqft) opens up many options. We are also a larger church now, and that allows us to work more opportunities at a larger scale. Most of our actual ministry work is done by volunteers. Asbury’s facility, programs, and volunteers are supported by a substantial staff (though smaller than average for a large church).

Asbury members have a long history of generosity with both their finances and time. Without time and money the ministry work would not get done. Without funding, the facilities and staff required to support our ministries could not be maintained. Asbury has been blessed in many ways. One of those blessings is the opportunities we have. Asbury has an outstanding senior pastor. We have a great facility in an ideal location. Our members our committed to the Gospel. We have a pastoral team and staff who are absolutely dedicated to our Mission, Vision, and Objectives. Asbury has a bright future for contributing to the Kingdom of God. To everyone who is contributing to the ministry of Asbury, we say thank you. If you are not yet engaged, you are missing the chance to be part of something that is important, bigger than yourself, and eternal.

Please join us.

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ASBURY TIDINGS

FALL 2009 SCHEDULE OF COURSES

BIBLICAL STUDIES Disciple – Part I 17 sessions (first half of a 2-semester course) Class A: Tuesdays, Aug. 11- Dec. 15 (will not meet Oct. 13 or Nov. 24) Class B: Thursdays, Aug. 13 – Dec. 17 (will not meet Oct. 15 or Nov. 26) 6:30-8:30 pm • Room 2818 Instructor: Dr. Vaughn Story Cost: $38 (cost of materials for both semesters) These two concurrent 34-week courses are for adults wanting to study the whole Bible in order to learn what it means to be a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. No previous Bible knowledge required. Those interested in participating in either Class A or Class B must attend only one 6:30-7:30 pm Orientation in room 2818. Orientation schedule: Tuesday, July 28 or Aug. 4, or Thursday, July 30 or Aug. 6.

Transformers: Jesus and Our Hebrew Roots 11 sessions Tuesdays, Sept. 8 - Nov. 17 10-11 am • Room 1508 Instructor: Rev. Gloria Phillips Cost: $15/person; $25/couple A continuation of the in-depth study of the Old Testament and the ways that Jesus was foreshadowed in symbols, types, and prophecy.

Join this group of men and women as we study the Hebrew roots of Christian beliefs and practices with the original meaning of our Englishtranslated words from the Hebrew.

I Love You, but I Must Judge You: A Book Study of Malachi 10 sessions Tuesdays, Sept. 8 - Nov. 10 6:30-8 pm • Room 2820 Instructor: Gail Knox • Cost: $15 The short book of Malachi contains God’s last words before 400 years of

silence that precede the New Testament and the advent of Jesus Christ.

In this Easy-To-Learn Inductive Bible series from Word Among Us Ministries, you will gain significant insight into the extent of God’s love for His people during a time when their behavior displeased Him immensely.

These words of God through Malachi are extremely relevant to today’s living.

Scripture Memory 10 sessions Thursdays, Sept. 10 – Nov. 19 (will not meet Oct. 15) 6:30-7:30 pm • Room 2820 Instructor: Eldon Trimble & Emsy Clark • Cost: $5 This 10-week course is designed to teach, encourage, and promote the memorization of God’s Word. Learn what the Bible says about memorizing God’s Word as we examine the different learning styles, memory theories, and processes. Discover application opportunities in the Word of God as we learn and memorize Scripture together. Our prayer is that Scripture memory accountability groups will form as a result of this course.

BETH MOORE BIBLE STUDIES Esther: It’s Tough Being a Woman 10 Sessions Tuesdays, Sept. 8 - Nov. 10 9:15-11:15 am • Room 1504 Instructor: Cindy Read • Cost: $15 Join us for this in-depth study and very personal examination of the Old Testament book of Esther. If you’ve ever felt inadequate, threatened, or pushed into situations that seemed overpowering, this is the study for you. Just as it was tough being a woman in Esther’s day, it is tough today. Going up against heavyweights bent on her destruction, Esther trusted God and landed

a blow that saved her people. This profile in courage contains many modern parallels for today’s woman, and contains treasures to aid us in our hurried, harried, pressured lives.

To Live Is Christ: The Life and Ministry of Paul 11 Sessions Tuesdays, Sept. 8 - Nov. 17 9:30-11:30 am • Room 2818 Teacher: Dana Harrison & Susanne Johnson • Cost: $15 This journey through a study of Acts and the epistles of Paul presents fascinating Bible truths to help us gain a new appreciation of servanthood and why Paul said “to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Get to know the “Apostle to the Gentiles” in a new way. He served faithfully and loved heartily. This study will challenge and encourage you with a new appreciation of servanthood.

Enjoy the additional application of viewing pictures of the Harrisons’ tour of Greece and Turkey as they correspond with the journeys of Paul.

Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed: A Study of David 7 Sessions Tuesdays, Sept. 8 - Oct. 20 6:30-8:30 pm • Room 2821 Instructor: Dee Dee Geddie Cost: $13 Three women, three generations, three perspectives. This study contains the audio and video portions taped at the 2007 Deeper Still conference featuring Beth Moore, Priscilla Shirer, and Kay Arthur as they explored the life of David. You’ll laugh with them, cry with them, and learn to love God with them. These authors’ messages are divided into three segments, two lessons each.

Each segment focuses on the life of David at a different stage of his life: ASBURY TIDINGS

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FALL 2009 SCHEDULE OF COURSES

as a young man (by Priscilla Shirer), as a middle-aged man (by Beth Moore), and as a man facing the final third of his life (by Kay Arthur).

PRECEPT UPON PRECEPT BIBLE STUDIES Joshua: Conquering Your Enemies 10 sessions • Tuesdays, Sept. 8 – Nov. 10 • 9:30-11:30 am • Rm 2821 Instructor: Nancy Baxter • Cost: $15 God said, “Be strong and courageous! Do not be troubled or dismayed.” Increase your faith in God, who has put you in His grip and will never let you go! This study will charge you up and encourage you to press on.

Isaiah: Part I (Chapters 1-39) 14 sessions • Tuesdays, Sept. 1 – Dec. 8 (notice earlier start date) 9:30-11:30 am • Room 2820 Instructor: Nancy Staab • Cost: $35 Isaiah is the crown jewel of Old Testament prophets, a book that strikes awe in the heart of its reader, especially when its poetry is read in the Hebrew. Prophecies from Isaiah are mentioned in twenty-two places in the Gospels, Acts, and Romans. The words of Isaiah were often found on the lips of the Christ, the Messiah prophesied in Isaiah. If Jesus, God incarnate, honored this grand and glorious book so highly, then you and I ought to do the same.

In Isaiah Part 1, we’ll meet the Holy One of Israel, and learn how He deals with those who claim Him as God but don’t honor Him as God in the way that they live. We will also find the destiny of nations, the future of all mankind...including ours.

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ASBURY TIDINGS

I John: How to Know You Have Eternal Life 11 sessions • Wednesdays, Sept. 9 – Dec. 2 (will not meet Oct. 14) 6-8 pm • Room 2820 Instructor: Debra Stephens Cost: $30 Because how you live means more than what you say, because hypocrisy and hide-and-seek games with worldliness hurt you and those around you, because many feelings that people ‘fall into’—sentimentality, emotionalism, and lust—aren’t love, and because real faith must be based on time-tested truth, the First Epistle of John shows you how to be the person you know God wants you to be.

DOCTRINE AND THEOLOGY Christianity and Today’s Culture 8 sessions • Sundays, Sept. 20 – Nov. 15 • 5-6 pm • Room 2820 Instructor: Brig Barker • Cost: $5 No childcare This course will examine the intersection of Christianity and today’s culture. Topics to be covered will include Biblical Worldview versus moral relativism, Apologetics, Manuscript Evidence, Islam: A Primer for Christians. All classes during the session will focus on our individual involvement as Believers in the Great Commission. Scheduled for your convenience to occur just prior to our new Sunday evening 6 pm worship service in the Venue this Fall!

CHRISTIAN LIVING Financial Peace University 13 weeks • Wednesdays, Aug. 19 – Nov. 18 (will not meet on Oct. 14) Facilitator: Rick Boothe OR Sundays, Aug. 23 – Nov. 22 (will not meet on Oct. 18) Facilitator: Ron Carter

Room 2818 • 6-8:00 pm Cost: $93 for kit, one kit needed per couple; No childcare available for Sunday class.

This program is not a quick fix for financial worries. It is a 13 week program which requires real commitment. By teaching you money management basics, FPU can give you hope and provide a solid plan to walk you from the financial bondage of debt into true Financial Peace.

Attend one of four free orientations from 6-7 pm on Wednesday nights Aug. 5 in room 1335, or Aug. 12 in room 2818, or Sunday nights Aug. 9 or 16 in room 2818 for an overview of FPU course material and to decide if you are ready to change your family tree.

Crown Financial Bible Study Several choices for meeting days & times: Sundays, Sept. 13 – Dec. 13 5-7 pm • Room 1504 OR Tuesdays, Sept. 8 – Dec. 8 6:30-8:30 pm • Room 2314 OR Wednesdays, Sept. 9 – Dec. 9 6-8 pm • Room 1621 Cost: $45/individual; $55/couple No childcare available for Sunday class. Each class limited to 10 people. Register by calling Jennifer Shumard at 392-1141.

The most important thing related to managing money is the attitude of your heart. What is the “heart choice” behind the money decisions you make? What guides your heart in the area of money? A Crown Life Group is a biblical financial small group study designed to help you discover practical and life-changing principles that will help you make successful decisions about money.

Topics include getting out of debt, spending, saving and investing, giving, budgeting, training children, and more. Approximately two hours of preparation each week. Group

meeting time: two hours. Participants complete homework assignments, memorize scripture, and pray for one another each week. Orientation required for all participants will be Sunday, Aug. 23, from 6-7:30 pm in room 1504.

Your Legacy Workshop 5 sessions • Wednesdays, Sept. 9 – Oct. 7 • 3:30-5 pm • Room 2820 Instructor: David Thomas, Joanne Stadler, and Donna Wilson • Cost: $5 No childcare This is an interactive workshop with practical, workable goals of making a written and oral “history” of who we are and what we will give to our families as a part of our legacy by preserving our memories, inspirations, and core beliefs. We will examine and plan for future events that all of us should anticipate, as well as producing optional finished products, such as a history book and videotaped personal interviews.

Marriage & Family

The Parent Adventure: Preparing Your Kid for a Life with God 7 sessions • Wednesdays, Sept. 9 – Oct. 28 (will not meet Oct. 14) 6–8 pm • Room 1504 Instructor: Christina Gray • Cost: $13 Though parenting is challenging and scary, it is also exciting and rewarding. The adventure lies in using those everyday teachable moments to prepare your kids for a lifetime with God. The Parent Adventure will help you teach your children to love God and pursue His purpose for their lives. This 7 week study suggests practical ways you can build your children’s faith through the day-to-day stuff of life.

Care Boundaries 9 sessions • Wednesdays, Sept. 9 – Nov. 11 (not meeting Oct. 14) 6–7:30 pm • Room 2314 Facilitators: Joanne Stadler, Ann Schulz, & Cliff Baker • Cost: none Ever feel like people take advantage

of you? Do you have trouble saying no? This class will help you learn to set limits so you can focus on the true agenda God has given you!

Boundaries, a DVD study based on the book by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend.

GriefShare Support Group 13 sessions • Tuesdays, Sept. 1 – Nov. 24 • 7-8:30 pm • Room 2500 Facilitators: Janie Hedrick & Pat Finch • Cost: $12 GriefShare is a special weekly video series and support group for people who are grieving the death of someone close to them. It’s a safe place to be around people who understand what you are feeling.

At GriefShare, you’ll learn valuable information about recovering from your grief and renewing your hope for the future. Group sessions are offered three times per year. You may begin attending this group at any time…each video session is “self-contained.”

Dynamic Marriage 9 sessions • Thursdays, Sept. 17 – Nov. 19 (not meeting on Oct. 15) OR Sundays, Sept. 20-Nov. 15 6:30-9 pm • Room 2201 Facilitators: Ron and Hope Schwabe (Thursday class); Bryan and Leslie Runyan (Sunday class) Cost: $130/couple, $50 deposit holds your spot (many materials included, scholarships available) No childcare for Sunday class.

This interactive class will focus on replacing old habits with new ones in a unique, safe environment.

Practical ideas will be given to help you go from good to great, from mediocre to magnificent, or from hurt to healed. To register, call Jackie or Ron at 251-6665 or asburydynamicmarriage@windstream.net.

Limited to first 12 paid couples.

ASBURY TIDINGS

FALL 2009 SCHEDULE OF COURSES

QPR Training 1 session • Thursday, Sept. 17 7–9 pm • Room 1502 Instructor: Mich Magness, Gerontologist and certified QPR instructor Cost: none We all know the importance of getting CPR training for medical emergencies. Come get trained in QPR so you can give emotional first aid when a friend or loved one is in crisis. Sponsored by Asbury Stephen Ministry, “God’s love in action.”

Thrive Again 1 session • Saturday, Oct. 10 1-5 pm • Parlor (Room 1900) Facilitators: Jeff & Katie Rindt Cost: none • No childcare Join author and counselor Jeff Rindt and his new wife, Katie, for one Saturday afternoon, as they show you proven strategies for living powerfully as a single person.

Escape the shame and hopelessness of divorce and renew your faith in God and yourself. Come as you are and find acceptance, new connections, optimism, and the motivation to be your best self.

Preparing for the Holidays Grief Workshop 1 session • Saturday, November 7 10 am–12 noon • Parlor (Room 1900) Facilitator: Carl Novinger Cost: none • No childcare Experiencing grief can be especially painful during the holidays. Let’s spend some time together. We’ll have materials for you to take home and share ideas about the best way to spend the holidays during those particularly challenging times of life following a loss.

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120 Minutes of Stephen Ministry Skills 1 session • Thursday, Nov. 19 6:30-8:30 pm • Room 2500 Instructors: Sheila Slater & Charlene Giles • Cost: none Learn valuable Stephen Ministry skills that you can use right away in one evening! This workshop type session is similar to Stephen Ministry training. Topics include: Overview of Crises, The Art of Listening, The Dimensions of Forgiveness, and Dealing with Depression. For everyone! Bring a friend!

COME ANYTIME STUDIES These studies may continue beyond the semester parameters and may be joined at any point in time.

Mothers’ Fellowship Mondays, 9:30-11:30 am Sept. 14 – Dec. 14 • Parlor (1900) Instructor: Esther Gene Morrison A Bible study for mothers raising children, usually centered around the study of a book selection or two. This semester will begin with a study of “Tune In,” by Jen Hatmaker.

Believers Bible Study Wednesdays, 6-7:30 pm Year-round, with a slight break during August • Room: 1508 Instructor: Don Herrold Four Views of Revelation from the Parallel Commentary edited by Steve Gregg Women of the Word Wednesdays, 10-11 am Ongoing, year-round • Room 2319 Instructor: Darlene Johnson, Pastor to Women • No childcare Open Bible study focusing on the practical application of the Scripture sermon series.

Breathe: Take a Deep Breath and Re-focus on the Lord!

A Women’s Group for women of all ages and stages who want to come together in an uplifting, positive atmosphere to grow in their relationship with the Lord.

Wednesdays, 6-8 pm* Sept. 9 – Nov. 18 • Room 1502 (will not meet Oct. 14) Instructors: Various Asbury women Facilitators: Cathy Ambrose & Bree Breig Back by popular demand: we have secured talented women leaders from within Asbury to teach! Each week will focus on a Fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22-23. As Sisters in Christ, we will come together for stand-alone lessons, then share in smaller groups, listening from the heart as we seek the Wisdom of God. No homework required!

MEN’S FRATERNITY Winning at Work and Home Tuesday mornings, 6:15-7:30 am Sept. 8 – Nov. 17 • Room 2820 Facilitator: Brent Colgan OR Wednesday evenings, 6-8 pm* Sept. 9 – Nov. 18 (will not meet Oct. 14) • Room 2821 Facilitator: Greg Ruley This men’s 16-session study focuses on the two areas that are central to a man’s life: career and family.

The walls of manhood will begin to build through studying a man’s chief responsibilities. Explore with us how a man can enjoy and engage in his work, and how he can relate to a woman in a whole new way.

(Continues in Winter 2010 RoadMap session in January.) *Class time will actually run around 6:10 pm-7:45 pm, due to dropping off and picking up kids in childcare, children’s choirs and children’s activities. Please have children in choir by 6 pm.

acts

THE BOOK OF

Are You a Kingdom Person?

JIM LENDERMAN, PASTOR, WESLEYAN LEADERSHIP

If you were hauled in front of a jury of your peers, would there be enough evidence to convict you of being a genuine Christian? Upon examining your life to evaluate the sincerity and maturity of your faith in Christ, and how inextricably it is integrated into the fabric of your life,

WHAT DO YOU FIND?

Christian sociologist and researcher George Barna asks these age-old questions in his foreword to Jim and Molly Davis Scott’s book, Kingdom People. What a profoundly sobering question that is if it’s taken seriously. Can people clearly tell that I am a genuine Christian by looking at my life— my words and actions? Would people say that my faith is inextricably integrated into every aspect of my life —family, relationships, work, conversation, recreation, etc?

Personally, I don’t want to be “convicted” by only a preponderance of the evidence (just enough proof to persuade my peers it is more likely than not that I am a genuine Christian). I want the evidence to be beyond a reasonable doubt (no other reasonable explanation can be found for who I am and how I live publicly and privately).

What about you?

God’s purpose for those who follow Jesus is for us to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength; and to love the people around us as much as God loves us. God’s purpose is for us to be fundamentally united with God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. God’s purpose for us is to be taught and led by the Holy Spirit so we can experience intimacy with God and so we can be the hands and feet of Jesus as we go out in ministry and service in the world. To take our cue from Asbury’s mission, our purpose is to glorify God and make disciples.

The big question is, how do I make this a reality in my life so my peers will clearly see that I genuinely follow Christ?

Later in his foreword to Kingdom People, Barna adds, “If you choose to live for God then you must ASBURY TIDINGS

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‘work out your salvation’ by accepting the challenge to grow spiritually. That means you will have to intentionally throw your-self into the hard work of having your heart, mind, spirit and soul irrevocably altered by God. He will transform you, but you must partner with Him in the process.”

There are many things one can do to live life and faith at a higher level. There are many things that can contribute to someone’s life and faith being irrevocably altered by God. But the thing I have discovered that makes this kind of transformation possible in the deepest, most sustainable way is Kingdom People. If you really want to grow in your faith, if you are teachable, and if you are willing to join God and others in working out your salvation, then Kingdom People may be what you’ve been looking for.

By participating in a Kingdom People study group you would have an opportunity to intentionally focus on your faith—to “work out your salvation” as Paul put it in Philippians 2:12. You will grow in developing a biblical worldview so you see life and faith more and more though the lens of the Bible. You will grow in your understanding and experience of God in His fullness—God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. And you will learn how to approach your life and faith in a way that can lead to sustained spiritual growth long after the 12-session Kingdom People study group is over.

Kingdom People will show you how to become 10 ASBURY TIDINGS

more intentional about how you approach your life and faith in four vital areas: • You will learn how to create a “Christian environment” in your life where God is more real and personal—where you can learn to hear and follow as God speaks to you through the Holy Spirit.

• You will discover who God created you to be when He handmade you in your mother’s womb.

You’ll see that God loves you for who you are, not what you do.

• You will discern where God is calling you to join Him in min ministry and service using the gifts and abilities God has given you.

• You will uncover essential character qualities that are common to spiritually mature Christians.

Then you’ll develop a plan to grow in the qualities God places on your heart.

If you want more out of your life and faith than you’re getting now, then Kingdom People may be for you.

If your walk with Christ seems bland and powerless, then Kingdom People may be for you.

If you are serious about intentionally throwing yourself into the hard work of having your heart, mind, spirit and soul irrevocably altered by God, then Kingdom People may be for you.

And if you want to know more, then contact me at jlenderman@asburytulsa.org. We’ll visit about how you can join with others in leaving the common life and faith behind.

“I am the prodigal son every time I search for unconditional love where it cannot be found.”

HENRI J. M. NOUWEN, “THE RETURN OF THE PRODIGAL SON”

Coming Home to God MARTY MCBROOM

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RAYERS IN A BOX? NOT EXACTLY.

But there are some communities at Asbury that have prayer boxes that contain names of prodigals and those who are unsaved. Three of these communities are Celebrate Recovery, Faithbuilders and Family Fellowship.

The first time Michiel Conner and his wife, Barbara, came to Asbury in 2005, she saw something in the bulletin about Celebrate Recovery and urged Michiel to go to the meeting the next evening. He attended and has hardly missed a Monday night since.

“If I had not attended, I wouldn’t have lived until my next birthday,” he said. “One thing I did was ask God to show me a young man I could help before he got as bad as I had. There was a young man in one of the groups I attended who called me, always around ten or eleven at night, and we would meet over in the chapel at St. Francis Hospital because it was open 24 hours a day. About the third or fourth time this happened, we were down on our knees and I was praying for him. I thought to myself, ‘This is silly. I’m praying for him, but I also need to be praying for myself.’ So I prayed for myself, and my problem with alcohol was gone – just like that! I’ve had absolutely no desire for it since then. It was a miracle!”

The prayer box in Celebrate Recovery (CR) is a heartshaped box. CR is a ministry for believers who meet on Monday evenings and seek to overcome issues that could not only ruin their walk with God but sometimes claim their very lives. Albert Kahl, the leader of the CR prayer team, retrieves the prayer requests each week after the meeting and the team prays for the requests.

Many of these prayers have been answered. Michiel shared about a friend in CR who had put off giving his testimony for several years. This man had a knot in his stomach about the size of a tennis ball. He had seen a doctor for treatment but the knot never went away. He finally decided to give his testimony at a CR meeting, and when he was finished, he realized he could no longer feel the knot in his stomach.

When Michiel heard this story, he told his friend they needed to stop what they were doing so he could thank God. His friend asked if Michiel believed God did this as a result of his obedience in giving his testimony, and Michiel

said, “Yes. I really believe that.”

Michiel thinks that Christians feel a need to pray for prodigals because at some time in their lives they have been prodigals.

“It was CR that showed me I was a prodigal, and my Heavenly Father was there to welcome me back,” he said.

The Conners are also members of Faithbuilders Community. Faithbuilder, Carol Thompson, found a beautiful wooden box at a store and brought it to be the class prayer box. Members could put in names of those who had either fallen away or were lost.

Michiel told how one lady in a Faithbuilders Bible study group requested prayer for her nephew. He told her she should request prayer from the whole class. After she did, many others in the class began to share needs from their own family members. They also share when a prayer is answered.

Family Fellowship Community is another group that has a prayer box for prodigal family members and friends.

Darlene Truman is co-president.

“We pray that someone will come into their life and speak God to them,” she said.

Exodus 34:10,11 is written on their prayer box. “Then the Lord said: ‘I am making a covenant with you. Before all your people I will do wonders never before done in any nation in all the world. The people you live among will see how awesome is the work that I, the Lord, will do for you.

Obey what I command you today…”

“Before praying for the people in the box, these verses are read,” Darlene said.

She shared that when there is a special prayer service at Asbury where there will be prayer for those who have wandered; she takes their prayer box with all the names in it and places it on the altar.

“We look forward to the day when they will be received back into fellowship,” she said. “I’m never going to give up praying for them. I cling to the verse that says ‘Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.’ It doesn’t say how old so we just have to keep praying. Sometimes I feel that I get a little glimpse of heaven when I’m fellowshipping with Christian friends, and there is so much to rejoice in. We want this so much for those who have wandered!”

ASBURY TIDINGS 11

acts

THE BOOK OF

SummerSong 2009: MUSIC FOR THE HEART

MARTY MORRIS

H

LA. ERE WE GO; HERE WE GO TO CAMP WALLABAL ALLA; WE’RE GONNA HAVE A BALL AT CAMP WALLAB ABALLA!” LL WA MP CA AT L AL US R FO G IN TH ME SO E’S THER These opening lines of the first song of our musical, Camp Wallaballa, certainly describe the week we had together in SummerSong 2009, Asbury’s music camp for children who have completed third through sixth grades.

Every child is a star in SummerSong. They can be actors, soloists, dancers or on the handbell team besides singing together as a choir. Limited enrollment insures quality time for the children.

Teen volunteers who work with the children consist of former SummerSong participants who take time off from busy schedules to be a part of this wonderful week.

Hart Morris, Minister of Music, orchestrates the music for the live band, which consists of the teen helpers. The director this year was Brad Morris who, among other things, is the director of Metropolitan Arts Theater. Claire Morris, dance team choreographer; Angela Parris, soloist coach; Cynthia Bedford, handbell coach; and Sara Bennett, pianist, round out the SummerSong staff.

From Monday to Friday, the halls of Asbury are filled with music, laughter, set makers, dancers and actors learning lines and blocking scenes. Children who participate in SummerSong

12 ASBURY TIDINGS

CAMP WALLA BALLA

choose to enroll; it is not just daycare for the summer. We rarely have absences or discipline problems during the week and the kids work hard for four hours a day through the week.

On the night of the performance of “Nic at Night,� SummerSong 1997, Daniel Pease and his dad, Dan, were playing catch. Daniel missed catching a ball which hit him in the face. He came to the performance with ice packs and sat on the front row waiting for his time to perform. In 2002,

Michael Fling had the stomach flu and sat through dress rehearsal with a blanket over him and a bucket beside him. He pulled through for the performance of Kings Dreams and Schemes that evening.

ASBURY TIDINGS 13

CAMP WALLA BALLA Each year the musical for SummerSong is chosen because of the songs—what they say and how they will impact the lives of the children. To make the musical “ours,” I write a new script especially for our children incorporating those songs. After the casting process, lines are added or stylized to fit the characters that have been cast.

This year ‘sarcastic Krissy’ became ‘Chris with an attitude’ played by Coleman Bourke.

Last year more girls than boys enrolled necessitating name and gender changes.

Our musical was “It’s Cool in the Furnace, the story of Shadrach, Meshack and Abed-nigo.” Our famous trio was Shania, Michelle and Abigail and King Nebuchadnezzar became Queen Debrachadnezzar. Regardless of the changes, the lessons remain the same.

This year’s production, “Camp Wallaballa,” was about going to church camp. The backdrop of the show was an 8 x 16 foot school bus built by Doug Thompson and painted to

look like a bus by Jake Bush. Kay Hays spent an afternoon making signs and sets for our camp. The cast included Madeline, played by Isabella Roy, a very homesick girl whose friends continually tried to comfort her; Ivy, played by Emma Spatz who was accident prone (she artfully fell on stage four times); four “cell phone princesses,” who in the end learned that they were missing out on life while they spent much of their time texting back and forth; Joy, played

by Katie Garcia, a first-time scholarship camper who depended on God and His promises and the new girl, Stephanie, played by Emma Morris, whose uninterested parents sent her to camp so 14 ASBURY TIDINGS

CAMP WALLA BALLA

they could go on a cruise. Stephanie, who had never been to a church camp before, watched Joy and the rest of the youth group, went to Bible study at camp and ultimately put God’s promises and Jesus into her heart.

On Thursday of SummerSong week, the teen helpers were in the orchestra room making signs for the children in the performance on Friday night when Michael said, “Miss Marty, the coolest thing we ever did in SummerSong was when we sang ‘The Power of God’ in black light with our white gloves on.”

He began singing the song and doing the hand

movements from so long ago. That is why we offer SummerSong to the children of Asbury.

Helping children hide the Word of God in their hearts through music is our highest goal.

This year’s “Camp Wallaballa,” did just that.

All week, as the children memorized eight songs with choreography, we continually talked about the promises of God. “I Can Do (all things through Christ)” will stay in their hearts forever as will “Fear Not (I have redeemed you. You are precious in my sight; my love and my delight)” and the age old hymn “Standing on the Promises of God.” Music is a wonderful tool to help children learn God’s Truth. That remains my prayer for all the children who have participated in SummerSong for the past 14 years—that God’s promises will be etched on their hearts through the music they learned at SummerSong.

ASBURY TIDINGS 15

acts

THE BOOK OF

NEW EVENING SERVICE SPENCER SMITH

T

HIS FALL ASBURY’S VENUE68 IS LAUNCHING A SUNDAY EVENING WORSHIP SERVICE GEARED AT CONNECTING HUNGRY HEARTS TO A RISEN SAVIOR.

This worship service, scheduled from 6 pm to 7:15 pm, will feature passionate modern worship tied closely to a relevant message on life and the Bible.

This experience is not geared at any one group of people, just those who are hungry for something in life that is refreshingly genuine in leading us to Christ. We launch Sept 13, and will be gearing up for this launch all summer.

We need those to come alongside who have a heart to worship God in a modern setting and serve those who are joining us in bringing glory to our God. The preaching will be live each week by Spencer Smith and Todd Craig; the music will feature a new worship artist to Asbury.

This evening service will be similar to the Sunday AM service in the Venue68, but not an exact replication. There will be a different style, if only nuanced, because it is a different musician.

Also, because we are extending the service, we will be shortening some other aspects from Sunday AM. Sunday PM will have a music set that is twice as long as Sunday AM. The AM service tends to be a loud celebration of Christ; Sunday PM will be a bit more reflective as we have more time to engage and get to a place of reflection in our music. The other major distinction is that we will have live preaching each week. The preaching will be split between Todd and Spencer and Tom, who will be preaching occasionally.

16 ASBURY TIDINGS

This service may tend to attract younger adults, but this is no way specifically a “young adult” or “college” service. We hope to see these demographics present but are hoping for diversity in our age.

The target is really those in our church family who resonate with this new style of music and preaching, who volunteer on Sunday and can’t come to worship (like Children’s workers), and those in the Venue68 who would be willing to move worship times in order to create additional seating on Sunday morning.

A non-Sunday morning worship time allows us to also create an atmosphere that should be very attractive to those not connected to a church. Besides the alternative time, the service will be more relaxed. The AM service is already informal, but we would like to extend that relaxed culture a bit more.

Another marker will be a service that is integrated.

We will be working in a much greater degree to make sure there is a consistent theme flowing through the worship music, the prayers, the sermon, and the response. While we are working for integration, we are also working for simplicity.

Essentially, the only two pieces of the service are music and preaching (communion once a month).

By extending the worship music time, we will be giving people a longer period to engage with God through song in preparation for hearing God’s word proclaimed.

Please be praying for us as we plan and work to create another experience at Asbury that will connect with some of our members and with some who are not connected to our church.

acts

THE BOOK OF

Asbury Kids Serving Christ story and photos by christy capps

I

magine a church that inspired its children to use their gifts to serve the Living God.

Vacation Bible School and to build a playground for the children at their church. The four Asbury children praying for the success of the VBS Imagine a church whose mission project are also children worked together serving on the VIM team pooling their resources to traveling to Estonia on help another church in a July 23 – August 3. country half-way around Allyson Blackshare the world. Imagine a (13), Tyler Blackshare church where kids are (10), Rich Capps (11) and raised to believe that there Dylan Capps (8) have is no limit to what God been actively involved can do. Imagine “Action in preparing for this misCanyon,” Asbury’s Vacasions trip to Estonia. The tion Bible School where children are all veterans almost a thousand chilof Asbury’s excellent Vadren discovered how to cation Bible School and follow, worship, confess, will have much to offer and serve Jesus. serving the children of This year’s Vacation Agape Church during Bible School Missions their VBS. They will do Project was close to the many of the same things heart of four Asbury chilin Parnu that Asbury’s dren. Every day during VBS does. They will play Worship Rally the kids games, make crafts, sing Clockwise from Top Right: Rich Capps, Allyson Blackstone, were visited by the Missongs, and learn a Bible Dylan Capps and Tyler Blackshare sions’ Moose who encourstory. aged the children to bring donations of cash or coins for Already, the four young missionaries have worked Agape Church in Parnu, Estonia. Jeff Spatz explained that together to plan and organize the outdoor games they the donated money would allow our Asbury Volunteers want to lead with the children at Agape. When discussin Missions (VIM) team to purchase supplies for Agape’s ing the different games, the kids were careful to consider ASBURY TIDINGS 17

language barriers they might encounter.

The children also had definite opinions on the Agape VBS t-shirts. Each of the four submitted a drawing to be considered for the artwork on the shirt. Tyler was quick to pick the colors for the t-shirts. OSU orange was not being considered, so Tyler went with his second choice… green.

The kids are looking forward to using their gifts in a variety of ways. Allyson Blackshare is the oldest of the children serving on the trip and she served as a teen helper at Asbury’s VBS in June. She loves acting and hopes that she can use her talent with drama to teach the kids in Estonia about Jesus.

Rich, Tyler and Dylan are all active in scouting at Asbury and hope to put their woodworking skills to the test

by helping build the swing set and play ground for the church.

The age of the children will not prevent them from carrying out the responsibilities God has placed on their heart for serving Christ, their team and our friends in Estonia. These kids are blessed to belong to a church that encourages family missions. They witnessed this as they watched the children at Asbury’s Vacation Bible School support their mission. By the end of the week, our VBS children donated $4,000 to Agape Church in Estonia!

Imagine a church that encourages its children to serve others around the world. Imagine children empowered by the Holy Spirit telling other children about Jesus. Imagine Christ preparing a new generation of spiritual leaders in the church who will go for Him.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ESTONIA AND AGAPE CHURCH Estonia is a country in Eastern Europe bordering the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland between Latvia and Russia. After becoming an independent nation in 1918, it was forcibly incorporated into the U.S.S.R. in 1940. With the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Estonia regained its freedom. The Russian troops left in 1994. Agape Church is in Parnu, Estonia, the second largest city in Estonia. Agape Church was established in 1921 and is one of the five “survival” churches called Tuletorn Congregations. Tuletorn is from the Estonian word for “lighthouse” because the lights were never turned out, even during the darkest night during the Soviet occupation.

Agape United Methodist Church in Parnu, Estonia offers many ways for Asbury United Methodist Church to “glorify God and make disciples”: 1. Spreading the Gospel: overcoming the trend set during the Soviet period, where religious activity was strongly discouraged and at times banned by the officially atheistic (nonreligious) government, Asbury can reach out to the people of Parnu and introduce them to

Agape Church in Estonia.

our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ through Agape Methodist Church.

2. Partnership with the leaders of Agape Church: We are members of the same team, working for a common goal. It is important that we take the time to listen and ask questions and find out ways we can help to meet their needs.

3. Discipleship: following the example of Paul, we can encourage, pray for and keep in close contact with Agape church.

ASBURY CAN HELP AGAPE IN THE FOLLOWING WAYS: Prayer • Fellowship/Friendship • Financial Support • Missions Support 18 ASBURY TIDINGS

Legacy of a Life Well Lived

acts

THE BOOK OF

ROD GILES

S

OMEONE SAID A MILLENNIA AGO THAT THE BLOOD OF THE MARTYRS IS THE SEED OF THE CHURCH.

We know for a fact that all of the first apostles except for John were martyred for their faith.

The death of Stephen is written about in Acts 6 and 7. The great significance for us is that one of the men involved with Stephen’s death was a man named Saul who held the cloaks of the men who stoned Stephen. Saul, a devout Jew who mercilessly persecuted many Christians, was later converted by the resurrected Christ himself. He became the most influential and effective missionary of the early Church. His writings to the churches he founded all over the known world eventually became much of the Bible’s New Testament.

He eventually was martyred himself.

Martyrdom is not a thing of ancient history. It is going on around the world even today. But the focus should not be on the death of Christians dying for their faith. Instead, we should focus on their lives, the way they lived, the influence and impact they had on people around them that eventually led to their death.

Look back on Stephen.

“Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, did great wonders a miraculous signs among the people,” says Acts 6:8. Then, verse 10 continues, “But they could not stand up against his (Stephen’s) wisdom or the Spirit by which he spoke.”

It’s really about how martyrs lived, not how they died.

Here is a modern case in point. Meet BJ Higgins.

BJ was a young man who seemed drawn to God even as a young child. His life has been chronicled by his parents Brent and Deanna Higgins in the book, “I Would Die For You.” He attended a small Christian school as a boy. He seemed to always turn his writing assignments into opportunities to witness. As he poured his young heart out in what he wrote, he was growing spiritually, as well.

In his early teens he was drawn to missions. In 2004, at the age of 14, after much pleading and persuasion aimed at his parents, BJ became part of a missions group to Peru. His group was tasked to do a drama as a witnessing tool in local communities. During all this time, BJ wrote of his experiences in his journal. By this time in his young life, BJ had become a very good writer. The book his parents have written about his life is full of BJ’s quotes. The picture that is painted is beautiful to see.

BJ’s experience in the mission field was so awesome that he returned to Peru a year later in 2005. He felt he was doing exactly what God had called him to do. In his journal he wrote about obedience, dying to self daily to serve God whole heartedly.

Even before he left Peru on his second visit, BJ was being drawn to another mission field, North Africa. Here was a young man drawn to do his Father’s work, living for Christ, sharing his love of God with all those around him, both friends and strangers alike with unusual ease.

After returning home from Peru, BJ encountered a stumbling block. He became ill and over time became weak to the point of hospitalization. Doctors were confused and confounded. They speculated that BJ may have contracted some sort of parasite while in Peru.

The rest of BJ’s story is about how his short life that was lived so intensely for Christ impacted those around him during his illness and eventual death. It is a compelling story about a beautiful young man who led a remarkable life.

A highlight of his parents’ recount of BJ’s life is the written text of BJ leading a young friend to Christ via text messaging. It may be a technological first for the Church.

Does BJ Higgins’ story qualify him as a martyr for Christ? Read his story and you be the judge. But there is no question that he is one of His saints leaving a legacy of a life well lived.

ASBURY TIDINGS 19

lifted up

Hey Tom, “How Many Jobs You Got?” kim beair, ms, lpc, ncc

I

f we have heard it once, we have heard are paid to do, while the congregation comes to “get it a million times “…every member in fed.”

There are those who do nothing but serve others; service.” Tom preaches it from the pulpit, but what does he really mean? Yes, we can see the poster now

neglecting their families, jobs and friends for seemingly

with Tom’s finger pointed forward…he wants YOU to

altruistic motives. These people are at the church every

work in the children’s ministry, lead the ushers, or vol-

time the doors are open while their spouses are lonely

unteer to collect food for Restore Hope—you know, to

and kids are in trouble. They spend all day at work

get “plugged in.”

solving other peoples’ problems while on the company

Come on. Admit it. If you aren’t currently serving, it

payroll. They love to take very dysfunctional people into

can make you cringe with guilt every time he brings up

their inner circle under the guise of “what would Jesus

the topic. We presume Tom’s purpose in mentioning

do,” when in reality they are just major enablers. They

it isn’t guilt, so what’s the point? In terms of common

often intend to make the overwhelmed and selfish feel

sense we know why we need a “volunteer driven church”

guilty.

but let’s examine the topic a little more deeply.

There are those who seem balanced, but in service

The overwhelmed or selfish folks are two very differ-

are working out their need for power and control, or

ent groups of people, but in reality, the end result is the

proving something to a long dead relative to whom they

same. They get so wrapped up in the business of life

could never measure up. The possibility for imbalance

that the church or community is not a priority.

and impure motives seems to be rampant. Scripture

The variety show “In Living Color” portrayed a Jamaican family whose mantra was “how many jobs you

indicates faith without works is dead, and challenges our motives within it.

got?” meaning you weren’t making a difference unless

There are also inept leaders; consider the ship cap-

you held umpteen jobs. Some believe church staff

tain who wants to “identify” with his crew by showing

should be doing all the jobs because that is what they

he too can clean the toilets. Yes, this is highly effective as the ship is heading for the iceberg. We could also

20 ASBURY TIDINGS

consider the leader who delegates authority as he spies

There are 168 hours in each week, and by subtracting

on people, pointing out every mistake they make.

the above 136 hours, you are left with 32 free hours.

Jesus said we will do even greater things than Him,

Time management experts say that if you cannot get

so we must be engaged. He delegated to the disciples

everything done in your week, you are doing too much.

and indicated ministry is a business (Acts 6:1-4, KJV).

Chances are many of us don’t use all 136 hours allo-

In responsible delegation, leaders state exact responsi-

cated above, leaving even more time for “service.”

…by being citizens of the earth with immeasurable blessings, we have a happy obligation to not only serve ourselves, but to also serve others. bility, instruct regarding expectations, give information

What you do with your time and the rewards you

and authority necessary to accomplish the goals, set

receive, will make a dramatic impact on those around

a deadline, and explain the rewards. Jesus had some-

you. Tom Harrison, George Bush and Barack Obama

thing others needed, and so does every person on this

did not originate the call to service. They do make ex-

planet today. Jesus never worked alone on his ministry

cellent points that by being citizens of the earth with

projects, nor should paid ministers. Jesus offered incen-

immeasurable blessings, we have a happy obligation to

tives for a job well done “and, behold, I come quickly;

not only serve ourselves, but to also serve others.

and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be” ((Revelation 22:12, KJV).

Is Tom Jesus? No, but he is replicating the behavior Jesus preached and lived. If you believe you don’t

Jesus died for us to have this great life and an even more awesome eternity. Isn’t it the least we can do to offer up something that would make a difference in another’s life—like He did?

have time for “plugging in to ministry,” let’s look at

If you haven’t done so, make a commitment today.

time in one week of our lives. We have: 56 hours for

Stick your toe in and give one hour to start, adding on

sleep; 40 hours for work; 14 hours for personal busi-

after that. He promises the rewards will be worth it.

ness (groceries, bills, doctors, errands, pet care, etc.);

Every time Tom figuratively “points the finger,” he is

6 hours for visiting/calling family & friends; 3 hours

giving you the opportunity for reward, so grab the op-

for exercise; 3 hours for hobbies; 2 hours for church

portunity.

on Sunday; 12 hours for spouse and kid activity.

ASBURY TIDINGS 21

Playing with Abandon JOHN WESTERVELT

S

tanding in the Gathering Area of Asbury’s new children’s wing, I watched 15 four-year-olds playing with abandon. I thought, “If only I could do that, it would soothe my mind, body, and spirit.”

How did the children happen to be here? It all began in August 2008 when I greeted 15 three-year-olds on a Tuesday morning as they arrived for their first day of preschool.

arrival of a group of mothers. The morning schedule was accelerated so the after-lunch rest-time could begin earlier.

Since rain had dampened the outside playground, we led the children to the Gathering Area in the new wing completed a year ago with funds from Mission Possible.

The rectangular room with an 18-inch high stage on one end was empty except for a cart in the corner filled with rubber balls. It looked like a small gym.

Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds...Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Deut. 11:18-19 Asbury preschool for this age is a blend of playing and learning. Each Tuesday and Thursday, Jan Wagner and Sue Wetmore prepare learning centers at three round tables. The children practice coloring, cutting, and learning numbers and letters. They learn the skills of playing harmoniously together from the teachers and from each other.

This year Miss Jan and Miss Sue decided to celebrate all the children’s birthdays together on the next to last Thursday of the school year. As the morning began, Miss Jan blew up a dozen and a half balloons of all colors.

The children were free to bounce the balloons off of the walls, ceiling, and each other. At first, I tapped the balloons coming my way back to the child that sent it. Later, I stood by Miss Sue and said, “Disney World could be no more fun than this.”

A little later, the teachers asked the children to put the balloons away and find their name on the rug for circle time. The flag holder, as noted on the board up front, picked up the American flag. The children said a pledge to the American flag, the Christian flag, and the Bible. Finally, they sang, “The B-I-B-L-E, that’s the book for me...”

Each month the children have a new Bible verse to memorize as the Lord asked of us in Deuteronomy 11:1819—“Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds...

Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

The birthday party was to begin at 1:30 pm with the 22 ASBURY TIDINGS

As background, let me say that these children have had nine months training in classroom behavior. The words spoken most often by Miss Jan, Miss Sue, and me are, “Remember, walking feet; remember, use your inside voice.” Occasionally at the end of a harried day, you might hear in a raised voice, “No running! No yelling!”

The rules are different in the gym. Each child picked out a rubber ball for bouncing and throwing. Before long, a restless little boy threw his ball in the corner and ran counterclockwise in an ellipse that filled the gym. His buddy joined him, and soon thereafter a little girl joined the chase. The next thing I knew, 15 children were going around the track.

A little later the whirling blur slowed then stopped.

Every child was gasping for breath. I was afraid to check their pulses. Recovery was swift. The fast little boy took off again and soon the herd was blurring past my eyes once more.

The children grew tired and this time moved to the far corner of the room as viewed by Miss Jan, Miss Sue, and me, who were sitting on the low stage. These children, quiet in the classroom, sounded like high school cheerleaders without a cadence. I looked at Miss Sue. She said, “Let them get it all out and leave it here.”

Later, back in the classroom, my morning volunteer duties were about over. All was quiet. I thought about my investments. Those in common stock have recently depreciated. My investment in the children has appreciated, and compounding will go on for a lifetime.

My Life...

Teenagers Can Change the World

k

KIMANI WILLIAMS AND VICTORIA FOWLER

imani Williams and Victoria Fowler of Youth At Heart joined Asbury teens on a life-changing mission trip to Red Bird, Kentucky over Spring Break. The teens enjoyed recounting their experience recently, expressing their gratitude to Asbury United Methodist Church for all that they learned and for making the trip possible.

kimani Williams

During the Mission Trip to Kentucky, Victoria and I had a lot of fun. This trip changed my life and made me a better person. It showed me that teenagers can

all-girl work groups that were assembled among the teams. Victoria and I were assigned to one of them.

My mom was in a separate group.

We had fun on the road traveling to Red Bird. We watched movies, gave presents to our secret pals, and went to sleep. It was a long way there from Oklahoma. When we finally arrived, we ate, went up to our cabins, and unpacked. The girls in my group were all quiet when I met them, but eventually opened up as time went by. The Youth counselors were very open and just as much fun as the kids.

They were all so friendly and comical.

My work team was lucky to work on the home of Mrs. Eva Caldwell and her husband, Sam. Mr. and

“I discovered that the Lord Jesus loves me for who I am regardless of my circumstances.� - Kimani

change the world. It also showed me that I can do anything I put my mind to do.

Before leaving, we went to Asbury Church for training. The Asbury leaders taught us how to use saws, hammers, and nails. Then we divided into nine work groups and saw the family houses we would be repairing on the trip. There were only two

Mrs. Caldwell and their dog, Ginger, were so excited to have us there. Sam was a little silent at first, but we learned a lot from him. Our job was to put some linoleum on the living room and hall floors, and to fix the bathroom ceiling. We had to use saws, nails, hammers and a broom. I had never used any of these tools before, except for the broom.

The best part of the trip in my opinion was just the ASBURY TIDINGS 23

view of the area. Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell lived right next to a river, perfect for skipping rocks.

They said that they had been living in Red Bird for a while. Mr. Caldwell said he wouldn’t leave that house for anything.

We had worship every day on the trip and talked about having a relationship with God. I discovered that the Lord Jesus loves me for who I am regardless of my circumstances. I learned that I’m beautiful and that God made me one of a kind. I also learned that as long as I’m praising and serving God, anything is possible.

Victoria Fowler

The YAH team just before boarding the bus for the mission trip to Kentucky, (L to R) Kimani Williams, Maurica Sayles and Victoria Fowler.

The Mission trip to Kentucky has helped me in so many different ways. It has given me a new perspective on my life. I am now able to communicate with God better, and feel better about meeting new friends and pursuing all of my goals.

counselors who came on the mission trip from Asbury. They were all very nice, though I didn’t know any of them before I came on the trip. All of us became really close friends. They all (Asbury leaders and teens) welcomed me into their group. The Asbury counselors were wonderful and cared a lot

“I am now able to communicate with God better, and feel better about meeting new friends and pursuing all of my goals” - Victoria On the trip we were able to help repair a house.

My group had to fix a living room floor and put in new sheet rock in a bathroom. I had never done this kind of work before. I got a chance to use an electric saw for the first time. I really enjoyed it.

The part that I liked the most about the trip was spending time with the wonderful family we helped.

The family was very nice and liked us a lot. They greeted us every time we came to see them. Ms. Eva (the homeowner) told us we could have anything we wanted in the house. It was amazing because even though she didn’t have much, she offered what she did have to us.

I also liked spending time with the other kids and 24 ASBURY TIDINGS

about us. My group counselors were Lance Taylor and Tiffany Calhoun. We prayed together every night. Mark Fowler, the Asbury Junior High Team Leader, helped me throughout the trip. He cared a lot for everyone and gave wonderful sermons.

Red Bird was very beautiful. We got to see a great view from the mountains. I was excited to see an elk on the trip. Lance tried to save an elk that was dieing, but couldn’t because it was too hurt. I am very glad that I got a chance to go on this marvelous trip, help someone in need. I got really close to God. I would definitely like to thank Asbury for letting me come on this trip, and would definitely love to come again.

asbury

opportunities

Surgery or Hospitalization Scheduled?

New Additions to the Library

Be sure to let Asbury know ahead

resource. Thank you to all who

of time by calling Ruth at 392-1146

continue to contribute books to

so your pastors can be in prayer for

our Library.

general information

you. When you enter the hospital,

Breakfast

church. The after-hours pastoral

Served from 7:15-9 am in the

emergency line can be reached by

CLC. Come enjoy fellowship with

calling 492-1771, selecting option

Asburians along with fresh donuts,

2, and leaving a message for the

bagels, biscuits & gravy, sausage,

pastor on call.

please designate Asbury as your

eggs, fruit, and cereal. $3 for adults & $1 for children 12 & under.

Engaged Couples If you are planning to use an

Sunday Morning Worship

Asbury pastor to officiate and/or

8 am, Mason Chapel

use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to

(Traditional Communion)

book ASAP to allow ample time

9:15 am, Sanctuary

for Couple-to-Couple (required

(Contemporary)

premarital sessions). Six months to

9:15 am, CLC (Open House Wor-

one year lead time suggested.

ship) (Acoustic Worship, Casual Setting)

The Gazebo is Open

11 am, Sanctuary (Traditional)

CDs of Tom’s “Message of the Day”

11 am, Venue68 (Modern with sign

are available immediately following

interpreter)

the worship service for $3. Prayer Journals are also available for $5

Sundays for Children & Students

each.

6 Weeks-4 Yrs: 8:00, 9:15 & 11 am K-6th Grades: 9:15 or 11 am

Recycling

7th-9th Grades: 9:15 & 11 am

Recycle unwanted paper products.

10th-12th Grades: 9:15 am only

Three bins are available, located in the south and east parking lots.

Adult Discipleship Communities 8:00, 9:15, & 11 am and Wednes-

Asbury Family News is available at

days, 6 pm and Shepherd’s Flock

the Welcome Centers. It includes

on Tuesdays at 6 pm. NEW! “Gen-

hospital lists, births, deaths,

erations” on Sundays at 11 am—a

marriages, baptisms and military

multigenerational community made

listings.

up of people from all demographics: married, single, young, and

Doors of Asbury posters are at the

“seasoned” spanning 6 decades in

Welcome Centers…FREE! Suitable

age groups! (See Discipleship).

for framing.

The Asbury Library is a wonderful

access Hands of Love Sign Choir Sundays, 6-7 pm, Rm. 2821 Friends in Christ Community Sundays, 11 am, Rm. 1507

bible study RoadMap Coming soon! Fall 2009 RoadMap courses in the new brochure and on the Asbury website at www. asburytulsa.org Disciple Bible Study This year we will offer two concurrent classes for adults wanting to study the whole Bible in order to learn what it means to be a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. Both the Tuesday and Thursday evening classes will consist of 17 weeks this semester, continuing with 17 weeks next semester. Those interested in participating in either Class A or Class B must attend one 6:30-7:30 pm orientation in Room 2818.

Orientation schedule: Class A: Tuesday, July 28 or August 4; Class B: Thursday, July 30 or August 6.

Cost $38 for both semesters.

care and support GriefShare Tuesdays, September 1 – November 24, 7-8:30 pm, Rm 2500. GriefShare is a special weekly video series and support group for people who are grieving the death of someone ASBURY TIDINGS 25

close to them. It’s a safe place to

Prayer Card Sending Team

in the recovery process. Bring sack

be around people who understand

Usually meets first and third

lunch.

what you are feeling. At GriefShare,

Mondays at 10 am in Rm. 1621 to

you’ll learn valuable information

send cards with God’s encouraging

about recovering from your grief

words and our prayers to those

and renewing your hope for the

who are ill or going through hard

future. Cost: $12 for workbook.

times. Cards and care packages are

Childcare available. You may begin

also sent to Asbury-related military

attending this group at any time…

personnel. Contact Gwen Mohler

each session is “self-contained.” To

at grmohler@aol.com for more

register, call 392-1191.

information, or call 392-1146.

Boundaries

Asperger Support Group

Wednesdays, September 9 – No-

First Thursday from 7-9 pm in Rm.

vember 11, 6-7:30 pm, Room 2314

1506. For mothers of children with

(no class October 14) Ever feel like

Asperger Syndrome. Childcare

people take advantage of you?

available.

families. Periodic care packages and

This class will help you learn to

Alzheimer’s Support Group

God’s Word are sent to Asbury-re-

set limits so you can focus on the

Third Thursday, from 1:30-3 pm in

true agenda God has given you!

Rm. 1621. Christian hope, support

Boundaries, a DVD study based on

and education for friends and

the book by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr.

family of those with Alzheimer’s or

John Townsend. Childcare avail-

other dementia.

Do you have trouble saying no?

able. To register, call 392-1191.

Cancer Support Group

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren First and third Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 pm, Rm 1506.

Mental Health Support for Families For family members or caregivers of people affected by a mental illness.

4th Thursdays, 1:30-3 pm, Parlor.

Military Connection Please join us in praying for our troops in harm’s way and their monthly encouragement cards with lated military personnel. The Prayer Ministry also covers them in prayer.

Please send contact information (complete name and address) to Gwen Mohler at grmohler@aol.com or call 392-1146.

Asbury Bear Bags

QPR Training

Second Sunday of each month,

Thursday, September 17, 7-9pm,

4-6 pm, Parlor. For those living with

Room 1502. We all know the

cancer and their family and friends.

books have comforted young

for medical emergencies. Come

Divorce Recovery

you may give a Bear Bag with a

get trained in QPR so you can give

Tuesdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.

emotional first aid when a friend or

For those suffering from the early,

loved one is in crisis. Sponsored

highly emotional stages of divorce

by Asbury Stephen Ministry, “God’s

and separation trauma. Childcare

love in action.” Childcare available.

available.

Visits to Asbury Members

Divorce Rebuilding

Asbury has a unique group of vol-

Thursdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.

children

unteers (Asbury Connection) who

For those ready to rebuild their

Registration forms for all children’s

regularly visit people who are either

lives after separation or divorce.

activities are available in the

homebound or in nursing homes. If

Childcare available.

preschool and elementary lobbies.

call Ruth at 392-1146, or contact

Eating Disorder Recovery

Core Childcare Hours:

the coordinator, Abby Sluice at

First and third Wednesdays, 12-1:30

Parents who are involved in

ozyanks2000@yahoo.com

pm. For individuals seeking support

RoadMap classes during these core

importance of getting CPR training

Asbury Bear Bags with coloring children for many years, but now 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.

you are interested in being visited,

26 ASBURY TIDINGS

hours will have childcare provided for children 6 weeks-12 yrs. of age

employment

“Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage”

Mon & Tue: 9 am-12 pm

PT Nursery Staff Positions Available Part-time position will work 1015 hours weekly in the Asbury

Tue, Wed, & Thur: 6-9 pm

Nursery. The schedule will include

nar provides hilarious, practical and

Sunday morning from 8:30 am-

no-holds-barred advice on marriage

Murdock Villa

12:30 pm with a few remaining

and male/female relationships!

A mission opportunity for our 5th

hours during the childcare weekday

(This isn’t your typical marriage

& 6th grade students. Usually the

and weeknight core hours. Suc-

weekend event!) Topics include: “A

second Sunday of the month from

cessful applicant should have a

Tale of Two Brains,” “Why Does

12:30-3:30 pm. Cost is $5 for CiCi’s

love for children, willingness to

He/She Do That?,” “The #1 Key to

Pizza. We’ll eat, then visit Murdock

portray Christian beliefs and values

Incredible Sex,” and “How to Stay

Villa where we will play Bingo and

to children and families. Resumés

Married and Not Kill Anybody.” No

do crafts with special needs adults.

should be sent to Vicki Ihrig, Asbury

one under 18 due to mature con-

It is an amazing time to witness in

UMC, 6767 S. Mingo Rd., Tulsa, OK,

tent. Special emcee Rachelle Renee.

our local community. Limited to 10

74133 or call her at 918-392-1160.

Neighbors and family welcome!

with no reservations needed: Sun: 8 am-12 pm

kids each month. For further information contact Jami at 392-1166.

Friday, July 31, 6:30-9:15 pm AND Saturday, August 1, 9 am – noon, Venue68. Mark Gungor’s DVD semi-

FREE tickets Sundays in July, plus

endowments Leave a legacy that continues

Asbury office weekdays.

Dynamic Marriage

Kindergarten Blessing Service

to give forever to a ministry you

Sunday, August 9, 4 pm. Children

want to support. There are endow-

who are just entering kindergarten

ments that support many areas

and their families are invited to

of Asbury’s outreach including

come be a part of this service of af-

children, youth, music, missions,

firmation and blessing. This service

and training of pastors as well as a

will be followed by a celebration

general endowment. You can easily

reception and commemorative

impact a ministry thru your will

activities in the CLC. Please register

or a current gift. Contact Dwight

by August 4 to ensure your child

Yoder at dyoder@asburytulsa.org

receives a certificate. For more

or 392-1113.

available). $50 holds your spot.

392-1165 or kbroadhurst@asbury-

marriage & family

contact Jackie or Ron at asburydy-

tulsa.org

8 Dates With Your Mate

information call Kim Broadhurst at

discipleship

2nd Tuesdays, February 10-September 8, 6:15-7 pm, Rm. 1502.

Discipleship Communities

Celebrate your marriage with

If you have not found an Adult

conversation over dinner alone,

Discipleship Community check out

or with another couple in the

“Get Involved” at www.asburytulsa.

group. Gather to hear a variety of

org or pick up a brochure at one of

topics led by various speakers (30

our Welcome Centers.

minutes), then have dinner out.

NEW TOPICS/SPEAKERS! Childcare available.

Thursdays beginning September 17, OR Sundays beginning September 20, 6:30-9 pm, Room 2201. This is a 9-week interactive class that will help you replace old habits with new ones in a unique, safe environment. Go from good to great, mediocre to magnificent or hurt to healed. $130/couple (scholarships Childcare available. To register, namicmarriage@windstream.net prior to first class. Limited to first 12 paid couples in each class. Classes are offered three times per year.

Milestone Wedding Anniversaries Email your upcoming Milestone Anniversary (5,10,15,20, etc.) to Carolyn Schutte at brucetschutte@ valornet.com or call Ruth at 392-1146.

ASBURY TIDINGS 27

Attention Engaged Couples

Car Care Workday

mation, contact Bud at bdmathes@

If you are planning to use an

Saturday, September 19. Car Care

cox.net (Thursdays), or Jim at

Asbury pastor to officiate and/or

Saturday is an every-other-month

rober@cox.net (Fridays).

use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to

workday provided for Asbury’s

book ASAP to allow ample time

widows and single moms, through

for Couple-to-Couple (required

our men’s ministry. While the ladies

Men’s Fraternity: Winning at Work and Home

premarital sessions). Six months to

wait in the comfort of the café,

Tuesdays, 6:15–7:30 am or Wednes-

one year lead time is suggested.

volunteers check tires, belts,

days, 6:15–7:45 pm, beginning

fluids, filters and batteries. They

September 8 & 9. Join facilitators

also vacuum and wash the vehicles,

Brent Colgan & Greg Ruley for

Asbury Exploration

and then update owners on what’s

this 16-session study, focusing on

Come to a lunch/class to learn

running smoothly and what needs

the two areas that are central to a

more about becoming a member

professional attention. This free

man’s life: career and family. Begin

of Asbury. Sunday, August 2, from

service gives our men the oppor-

to build the walls of manhood

12:15-2 pm in CLC. Lunch provided

tunity to put their faith in to action

through study dealing with your

and childcare is available for chil-

through loving and serving those in

chief responsibilities, and explore

dren six weeks through 6th grade.

need. To volunteer, contact Debbie

how you engage in work, and relate

Call 392-1191 to register.

in the Adult Ministries Office, 392-

to a woman in new ways. Register

1177 or dwallis@asburytulsa.org

by calling the Asbury Registration

membership

men

Hotline at 392-1191. All men ages

Men’s Prayer Breakfast

Men’s Open Basketball

18 and up are encouraged to at-

Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 am in the

Fridays, 11:30 am – 1:15 pm, Gym.

tend. Cost is $10.

CLC. Attention men of Asbury.

Men! Make plans to join other

Make plans to join us for a great

Asbury guys and their friends each

missions/outreach

time of meaningful worship, life-

week as we get together for a little

Spread the Word

changing prayer and an awesome

“round ball” and lots of fun! Come

The Bible translation for the North-

big breakfast, all for just $3 per

show us what you’ve got, and we’ll

ern Central Asia language was done

person. First-time guests are free.

have a great time of exercise and

in early 2009. A second printing

fellowship. Invite your friends, and

is scheduled later this year, and

we’ll see you on the court!

Asbury is undertaking a fundraising

August 5

Dub Ambrose

August 12 Pec Clark

event for this in connection with

August 19 Don Herrold August 26 Todd Johnson Home Improvement Workday Saturday, August 15. The Home Improvement Ministry serves widows and single moms within the Asbury family. Our men’s ministry volunteers make themselves available every other month to help folks out with minor home repairs and/or home improvement projects.

To volunteer, contact Debbie in the Adult Ministries Office, 392-1177 or dwallis@asburytulsa.org 28 ASBURY TIDINGS

Mature Men’s Ministry R.O.M.E.O. Luncheon

the Book of Acts sermon series

Are you a “Retired Old Man” who

Exhibits with more information on

wants to “Eat Out?” If so, then

this fundraising effort will be avail-

these luncheons are for you! Two

able outside all worship services

groups of men are meeting every

during the sermon series. The cost

Thursday or Friday at 11:30 am, for

of printing each Bible is $10, or a

good food and great fellowship.

package of 10 for $100. Please help

The Thursday group meets at

us “Spread the Word.” The literacy

Luby’s Cafeteria (71st & Riverside),

rate is very high, above 90% and

and the Friday group meets at the

there is very little Christian litera-

First Watch Restaurant (81st &

ture available.

Lewis). Both are open to anyone 60 years and up. Choose a day and join us this week! For more infor-

scheduled for June through August.

Missions Dinner

Perceptions Community.

The Next Missions Dinner will

• Operation Hope collects the follow-

be Tuesday, September 1 at 6

ing receipts: Drysdales, McDonald’s,

pm in the CLC. Come hear news

QuikTrip, Wal-Mart, Sanders Nurs-

about Asbury’s mission efforts

ery and Yale Cleaners just to name

through Oklahoma Outreach and

a few. For a more detailed list there

Global Outreach while enjoying

is Community Club Awards booklet

a wonderful meal. Cost: $5. Make

in each Community room. Receipts

reservations with Missy Sistrunk at

can be dropped off in the Mission

392-1163.

Office.

music Chancel Choir Wednesdays, 7 pm, Choir Room New Covenant Orchestra Wednesdays, 6-7:30 pm, Rm. 1510 Children’s Choirs Wednesdays, 6 pm, various

• Newspapers, copy paper, cata-

Asbury Power & Light

Mission Matters

logues, etc. collected in the recycle

Sundays, 8:15-9:15 am, Rm. 1510

A monthly newsletter is available

bins in the Asbury parking lot:

with recent news of mission hap-

benefit Asbury.

penings. If you would like to receive

All donations can be dropped off

the newsletter, please contact Missy

in the Mission Office, unless other-

Sistrunk at 392-1163 or msistrunk@

wise noted.

asburytulsa.org Global Outreach Prayer Ministry

missions/vim

News and prayer requests from our

Volunteers-In-Mission Opportunities

missionaries and ministries are sent

• July 23-August 2: Estonia, Parnu,

each week to our prayer ministry

MBS & Light Construction

list. If you would like to become a

• July 26-August 2: Honduras, MBS

prayer intercessor for those serving

& Construction

around the world, contact Missy

• September 17-29: Tanzania, East

Sistrunk at 392-1163.

Africa, Construction • October 23-25: Cookson Hills,

Recycling Efforts

Oklahoma, Light Construction

• Campbell’s soup labels & Box

• October 24-31: Monterrey, Mexico,

Tops: benefit Red Bird Mission in

MBS & Construction

Kentucky.

• November 4-8: Monterrey, Mexico,

• Campbell’s soup labels & Swan-

Medical

son labels: benefit Cookson Hills in

• November 11-15: Rio Bravo,

Oklahoma.

Mexico, Men’s Construction

• Small soaps and shampoo: benefit

• VIM Team Leader Training:

medical missions and Circle of

September 19 in Bixby; October 24

Care.

in Clinton.

• Old eyeglasses for adults or

For more about these exciting

children: benefit medical missions.

mission opportunities, contact

• Old cell phones: benefit Little Light

Marilene Long at mlong@asbury-

House.

tulsa.org or 392-1164.

• Old home printer cartridges:

Celebration Ringers Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 pm, Rm. 2506 Youth Orchestra Wednesdays, 5:30 pm, Rm. 2319 Asbury Ringers Wednesdays, 6-6:50 pm, Rm. 2506 Perpetual Light Thursdays, 10:30 am-12:30 pm, Rm. 2506 Saints of Swing Dixieland Band Thursdays, 2-3 pm, Rm 1510 Asbury Singing Ambassadors Tuesdays, 2:30–4 pm, Choir room

prayer Altar Prayer If you would like someone to pray with you during Holy Communion or immediately following a worship service, please come to the altar rail. A pastor or member of the Altar Prayer Team will be glad to pray with you for your needs—physical, emotional or spiritual—at the altar or in the Prayer Room.

benefit Walt Whitman Elementary School.

• Hearing Aids: collected by Deaf ASBURY TIDINGS 29

Prayer Room Reservations

Dessert from 9-9:30 pm. Hiding

This fun group will meet every third

The leadership of Asbury’s prayer

any hurts, habits or hang-ups? God

Thursday, so mark your calendars!

ministry would like to remind you

never intended for you to live in

that the main facility Prayer Room

bondage.

Senior Adult Meal & Movie

desiring to pray in a quiet, medita-

senior adults

of Asbury! If you’re 55 years of

tive atmosphere, but also to prayer

Visits to Asbury Members

groups within communities and

Asbury has a unique group of vol-

ministries. Just give Debbie in

unteers (Asbury Connection) who

the Adult Ministries office a call

regularly visit people who are either

at 392-1177 to reserve the Prayer

homebound or in nursing homes. If

Room for your group on a weekly

you are interested in being visited,

or monthly basis.

call Ruth at 392-1146, or contact

is open not only to individuals

the coordinator, Abby Sluice at Prayer Room Days & Times

• Mason Chapel & Venue68:

movie day event may be just the “ticket” for you! We get together at a different Tulsa restaurant each month, and then head off to see a “first run” movie. The dates and times vary according to the movie selected, but those who express an interest will be contacted a few

Senior Sit and Fit Stretching Class

make plans accordingly. For more

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays

Sundays, 7 am-12:30 pm through

from 9-9:30 am in the Gym. All

the interior door.

senior adults are invited to join us

• Main Facility, Mason Chapel &

age or over, our monthly meal and

ozyanks2000@yahoo.com

Our prayer rooms are accessible to you at these times:

Attention all single senior adults

for a time of stretching, coupled

days ahead of time so they can information or to sign up for the call list, contact Sally Wood: sally-wood@sbcglobal.net

singles

Venue68: Mon.-Fri., 8 am-9 pm; Sat-

with lots of fun and fellowship. No

urday, 10 am-3 pm; Sunday, 12:30

high impact workout here. We take

pm-9 pm. To obtain pass codes, call

it nice and easy. Come give it a try.

Thursdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.

Senior Walk in the Gym with Him

lives after separation or divorce.

Debbie in the Adult Ministries office, 392-1177.

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays

Divorce Rebuilding For those ready to rebuild their Childcare available.

Prayer Service for Overcoming Fear

from 8:30-9 am in the gym. All

Wednesday, September 16, 6 -6:30

senior adults are invited to join us

pm, Venue68 Sanctuary. “I have

for power walking, coupled with

told you these things, so that in me

lots of fun and fellowship. Come

you may have peace. In this world

give it a try.

highly emotional stages of divorce

heart! I have overcome the world”

Senior Singles Game Time

available.

John 16:33. Come find the peace

Every third Thursday, 1–4 pm,

you are seeking, through directed

(July 16). Attention Asbury Senior

Singles Potluck Luncheon

prayer and meditation on God’s

Singles! How would you like to get

Sunday, July 26, 12:15-1:30 pm in

word.

together on a regular basis with a

the Parlor. Come, bring your chil-

wonderful bunch of folks and play a

dren and enjoy a delicious lunch,

few rounds of cards, dominoes, or

courtesy of your fellow singles!

Celebrate Recovery

whatever board or card game you

Just bring a “family-sized” food

Come join this supportive group

chose? You KNOW you’d love it! If

item, homemade or purchased!

of people each Monday night at 6

you’re a single or widowed senior

Great food, great fellowship, new

pm. Dinner at 6 pm; Worship from

adult age 55 and up, come check

friends…it just doesn’t get much

7-8 pm; Small Groups from 8-9 pm;

it out in Room 2820. Bring a friend

better than that!

you will have trouble. But take

recovery

and stay for as long as you like!

30 ASBURY TIDINGS

Divorce Recovery Tuesdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.

For those suffering from the early, and separation trauma. Childcare

Singles Summer Luncheon

or your teen is struggling, please

slower for Asbury’s UMW. Join us

Sunday, August 16, 12-2 pm, CLC.

take this opportunity to get support,

on August 6 at 11:30 am, for our

Come be a part of this luncheon

we meet upstairs in the Venue

Summer Salad Luncheon series.

designed for singles of all ages,

every Tuesday from 1 - 2:30 pm or 7

This month’s luncheon will feature

with plenty of good food and great

- 8:30 pm, attend whichever works

missions, highlighting youth that

fellowship! The catered luncheon

better for you. Call Marsha Baker

have gone on mission trips this

will consist of a delicious entree

for more info 392-1157.

summer! Our guest speakers will be Ryan Proctor and friends, and

and salad, with homemade bread and dessert. The cost is just $5 for

10th, 11th & 12th Breakaway

Will Skaggs. Bring your favorite

adults, and children 10 and under

Every Wednesday night we come

salad and a friend, and get ready to

eat FREE!

together for a time of connection

be blest!

students

and worship. Our desire is to explore who God really is and how

Home Improvement Workday

7th, 8th & 9th Grade Breakaway

our lives matter to Him. We get

Saturday, August 15. The Home Im-

Sunday mornings, 9:15-10:30 am

started around 6:30 pm and wrap

provement Ministry serves widows

in the Breakaway Area. This isn’t

up around 8:30ish. Plan on hanging

and single moms within the Asbury

your normal Sunday school. Come

out afterwards for pizza. There will

family. Our men’s ministry volun-

join us for worship, fun and games,

be NO Breakaway July 22 due to

teers make themselves available

interactive talk/lesson, and some-

camp.

every other month to help folks out

times free candy and gift cards.

women

with minor home repairs and/or home improvement projects. Just

7th, 8th & 9th Disciple Registrations Due

Women of the Word

pick up a request form at the south

Wednesdays from 10-11 am in

welcome desk, or call your request

789 students, Disciple Camp is com-

Rm. 2319, Rev. Darlene Johnson,

in to Pam Wallace (392-1199, ext.

ing August 3-7! This is an incredible

teacher.

253), at least ten days before the

5 days at Camp WOW where you

scheduled work day. A Home

experience God, worship, small

Crafty Ladies Fellowship

Improvement volunteer will contact

groups, and tons of fun.

Mondays, 9:30 am - 2 pm, Rm 2820.

you, and make final arrangements

Registrations available in student

Ladies, if you enjoy doing crafts and

to get the job(s) done!

area they are due July 1!

fellowshipping at the same time, this activity is for you! We gather

Car Care Workday

7th, 8th & 9th Tulsa Missions

on Monday mornings to work on

Saturday, September 19. Car Care

Don’t forget about the Tulsa Mis-

our own individual arts and crafts,

Saturday is an every-other-month

sions stuff you signed up for! For

stop for a delicious pot-luck lunch,

workday provided for Asbury’s

more info call Marsha 392-1157

and continue on through until 2 pm.

widows and single moms, through

We have a wonderful time together,

our men’s ministry. While the

and would love to have you join

ladies wait in the comfort of the

us! For more information, contact

café, volunteers check tires, belts,

Beverly Clarke, and stop by some

fluids, filters and batteries. They

Monday and check us out!

also vacuum and wash the vehicles,

Student Ministry Parent Support Group This is simply a Parent Support Group of parents who come together to share experiences and gain strength, hope and new ideas from

and then update owners on what’s

each other. We are not profession-

UMW August Summer Salad Luncheon

running smoothly and what needs

als, but strive with God’s wisdom to

Thursday, August 6, 11:30 am–1

love, care, and support one another

service gives our men the oppor-

pm, CLC. Attention all ladies! It’s

through all struggles of life. If you

tunity to put their faith in to action

summertime, and the pace is a little

through loving and serving those in

professional attention. This free

ASBURY TIDINGS 31

need. No reservations required; just get your vehicle in line by 11:30!

worship • 8 am, Communion Service: Mason Chapel. Traditional service.

Communion is served and Dr. Harrison preaches.

• 9:15 am, Contemporary Praise & Worship: Sanctuary. Music, time of prayer and the message will all carry a prevailing theme for the morning. Dr. Harrison preaches.

• 9:15 am, Open House Worship: Community Life Center. A relaxed atmosphere with engaging worship. Dr. Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast with an occasional live sermon from another pastor.

• 11 am, Traditional Service: Sanctuary. The Chancel Choir, the New Covenant Orchestra and various vocal and instrumental ensembles offer a variety of styles of music. Dr. Tom Harrison preaches.

• 11 am, Modern Service: Venue68. Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by the worship band. Sign interpreters for the deaf are offered. Dr. Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast.

asbury’s ministry team Amy Malner • Senior High Team Associate Beth McCalman • Regional Outreach Team Associate Charlene Giles • Director of Care & Marriage Ministries Christy Capps • Children’s Design Team Leader Danny Hill • Technical Director Debbie Wallis • Adult Ministries Team Leader Diane King • Discipleship Team Associate Dwight Yoder • Executive Director Glen Grusendorf • Director of Recovery Ministries Greg Lynn • Manager of Student Ministries Hart Morris • Minister of Worship Joanne Miller • Director of Preschool/Mother’s Day Out Kim Renkema • Programming Team Leader Marcia Culver • Elementary Team Leader Marilene Long • VIM Team Associate Mark Fowler • Junior High Team Leader Marsha Baker • Junior High Team Associate Marti Morris • Worship Team Associate Mary Ann Smith • Director of Missions Susan Rizzotti • Asst. Team Leader of Preschool/MDO Teil Blackshare • Director of Ministries Todd Peterson • Senior High Team Leader Vicki Ihrig • Early Childhood Team Leader Victoria Williamson • Executive Assistant

asbury’s pastoral team Tom Harrison • Bill Mason • Dub Ambrose Todd Craig • Darlene Johnson • Jim Lenderman Sonny Plischke • Dick Read • Charlie Ryser Spencer Smith • Tiffany Smith • David Thomas

asbury’s support services team Betty Logan • Administrative Assistant Don Hubbs • Hospitality and Security Team Leader Jeff Polk • Manager of Facilities Jennifer Shumard • HR Assistant Joan Kahl • Member Connections Joanne Lucas • Director of Finance and HR Joe Spence • Director of Operations Lauren Burke • Receptionist Nancy VanDyne • Membership Team Associate

32 ASBURY TIDINGS

asbury

new members

Glen & Carye Bone

Mark & Andrea Bennett

Arley & Barbara Brewer

Don & Gretchen Miller

Mark Reyes

John & Deborah Bradshaw, Grace & Max

Nassus Brown

Dan & Leslie Lowery

Ryan & Amy Greenee, Kayden, Britten, Taylyn & Corbin

Dick & Lynn Wheatley

asbury exploration classes If you are interested in learning more about who we are, plan to attend one of the Exploration classes designed to tell you more about Asbury and what we believe.

Choose from one of the upcoming Sunday membership classes: August 2 • September 13 • October 4 • November 1 • December 6 Classes are from 12:15 pm - 2 pm Call 392-1191 to reserve your place • Childcare is available and lunch is provided ASBURY TIDINGS 33

asbury

family room in celebration of marriage 50 years

60 years

Jim & Judy Parker August 22, 1959

Gene & Betty Hobson August 21, 1949

Carl & Sue Richards August 29, 1959

55 years

Warren & Roberta Roberts August 21, 1949

Bill & Phyllis Taylor August 22, 1954

• Matthew Quade & Jessica Jeter, married June 20, 2009 • James Schoenthaler & Abby Ervin, married June 26, 2009 Kaylee Loerke has been selected as recipient of the Asbury United Methodist Women 2009-2010 college scholarship. She is a graduate of Union High School.

Kaylee is the daughter of Tom and Phyllis Loerke and granddaughter of Dick and Nevin Loerke and Glenda Howard. Kaylee plans to study speech pathology at the University of Central Oklahoma this fall.

30 years Russ & Pam Wallace August 5, 1979

we celebrate

Brock & Diane King August 18, 1979

25 years Rob & Julie Miles July 7, 1984

• Gabriella Rose Conrad, daughter of Mitchell & Danielle Conrad, born May 8, 2009 • Rowan Charles Fourie, son of Duncan & Sara Fourie, was born June 8, 2009 • Ellison Kate Sher, daughter of Rob & Heather Sher, born June 19, 2009

we remember

• Paul Messick, husband of Deloris, died June 13

• Charles Stratton, husband of Rosie Denton, died June 18 • Lylan (Marie) Sparks, mother of Sue (Ted) Marshall, died June 29 in Texas • Malissa Watt, wife of John, died June 30 • Nita Buckingham, wife of Bob, died June 30 • W. Darryl McRight, husband of Doris, died June 30 • Tony Stadler, husband of Pat, and son of Ed (Joanne) Stadler, died July 1 • Jim smith, died July 2 • Rev. Don Williams, husband of Reon, died July 3 • Ron Miller, husband of Diane, died July 3 • Virginia Mosley, died on July 6 34 ASBURY TIDINGS

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