Asbury Tidings - Let's Get Real by Asbury Church

Inside Tidings 3—4

Coming Up

Journey

5 — 27

Let’s Get Real...Traveling

“Let’s Get Real”

Looking Ahead...

All of us have problems. ALL of us! Without

exception! It is a remnant of sin (Romans 3:23). We cannot join the church without admitting that we are

the Road to Recovery 28 — 32

August Calendar

32 — 33

New Members

34 — 35

Family Room

sinners. Some of us have problems with greed, lust, anger, laziness, gluttony, envy or pride. Others have panic or anxiety disorders, passive-aggressive behavior,

Pastor Tom Harrison

or addictive behaviors (drug, alcohol, pornography). We have been reading a book entitled How People Grow. It talks about Tidings Staff Jan Weinheimer Sandy Wagner Juli Armour Lisa Tresch Lina Holmes Chris Lo, Photographer

these very things. We all have problems. We all need help. We cannot get the help we need all alone. We need two things: 1.) God’s help through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit 2.) Help from other people Everything about Asbury UMC is based on this belief. Every person is

Contributors Glen Grusendorf, Albert Kahl, J.T. Tate, Jan Shaklee Carr, Craig Conaway, Valerie Smith, Wayne Parsons, Susan Parsons, Joan Henning, Dan Draper, Rhonda Poteet, Rod Giles, Nikki Boyd, Charlene Giles, John Westervelt

created in the image of God. Tragically, this image has been tarnished by our sin and the sin of others. Jesus came to help us come back to the Father so that our sin might be forgiven, and we might give our lives back to God. In addition to Jesus’ incarnation, death, resurrection, and ascension, He gave us two wonderful gifts: the Holy Spirit, and the Church. One of the best places we see the church truly being the church is in a ministry called Celebrate Recovery. This is a place where people can share their “hurts, habits, and hang-ups” in an atmosphere of love, acceptance and

On the Cover: Valerie Smith grew up as an “Asbury kid”—good

forgiveness. I am profoundly grateful for the good fruit I am seeing develop here through CR. Every Monday night this group gets together for dinner, worship and for

parents, good

sharing. If you feel like you could benefit from a group of people who gather and

student, active in

admit, “I need some help!” CR is a safe place for you. This month’s edition of

church. Unfortunately, during her college and young adult years she traveled a dangerous road that took her to places she didn’t want to go. Finally Valerie

Tidings will describe how others have been touched and blessed by this event. As Jesus said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!” As you read this edition, I pray that God will speak to your heart so that you might experience in a powerful way the grace of Jesus that these folks have found.

returned to the God of her youth and surrounded by her Celebrate Recovery family, she is finding her way back to health and her Christian roots. Her story

Tom Harrison, Sr. Pastor

can be found on page 14.

photo by Christy Capps TIDINGS 2

×²-·¼» Ý±ª»®çóðêò°³¼

èñéñîððêô íæìê ÐÓ

Rodrigo Rodriguez Christian artist and classical guitarist

in concert

Sunday, Sept. 17 6:00 pm in the Sanctuary

Rodrigo Rodriguez was born with a deep love and passion for music. Performing worldwide since the age of 15, it has only been in the most recent years that he is able to play with a new-found joy and inspiration that comes from having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He now considers himself a worshiper rather than an entertaininer. He travels the globe, including his home country of Ecuador, to administer the Gospel. He has participated in crusades where literally thousands of people have made a life-changing decision to follow Jesus. He is using the gift of music to worship the Lord and share the great news of salvation. Come let this superbly gifted musician reach your heart. No admission charge

Life Hurts... God Heals Coming to Asbury The Life Hurts...God Heals project began as a way to fill the needs of young people. It is the teen verison of Celebrate Recovery, based on the Beatitudes. However, it is also very different. As the world turns, life as a teenager is getting messy and painful. Teens have to deal with stuff they never should at their age.... therefore a need was realized for something more than just a Christian discipleship group. Life Hurts...God Heals groups gives young people the oppurtunity to realize others are facing similar struggles and together they can focus on seeking God’ s healing. Students will meet in same sex small groups once a week for 13 weeks with two leaders. These groups aren’t just for students with serious issues like drug addiction or abuse, but for any teen that has a hurt, habit, or hangup (divorce, bad breakups, loneliness, parental conflict, etc.) Life is often really rough, and the best way to get through it is with others who are hurting as well. The first groups are scheduled to begin in September and then new groups will start throughout the year as students sign up. Call Marsha in the Student Ministrie Office (392-1157) if you are interested in leading a group or have questions! 3

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Step 1: Get help. I admit that I am powerless and that I need help. (Matthew 5:3) Step 2: Open your heart. I now know that God exists, that I matter to Him, and that He is the only One who has the power to heal my pain. (Matthew 5:4) Step 3: Depend on Christ. I realize I need to turn my life over to Christ. I need to depend on Him in all areas of my life, including all that I say, think, and do. (Matthew 5:5) Step 4: Hear and speak. I agree to evaluate my life and confess my faults to myself, to God, and to someone whom I trust. (Matthew 5:8) Step 5: Embrace God’s way. I will stop doing things my way and put my life on the path that leads toward God’s way. (Matthew 5:6) Step 6: Ask for forgiveness. I will of fer forgiveness to those who have hurt me, and I will ask for forgiveness for any wrong I’ve done to others. (Matthew 5:7,9) Step 7: Live for God. I will set aside some time for God each day to examine my life, read my Bible, and pray so that I have the power to live God’s way. ( Matthew 5:3) Step 8: Share with others. I will take the message that God heals to others in need and share it by my words and actions. (Matthew 5:10)

Check Out Alpha & Alpha Sprouts Alpha Sproutsis coming this fall to Asbury! It is a place kids come to have fun while learning answers to their questions. Asbury has been doing the adult Alpha program for over five years and now families will be able to share in the experience together. The courses will run concurrently every Tuesday night from 6:30-8:45 p.m., September 12 through November 21. (No meeting October 31.) Join us for a luau dinner and preview of Alpha, September 5 at 6:30 p.m. No obligation! Call 3921191 to RSVP and/or register.

Upward Basketball/Cheerleading Registration - Friday September 1 for Kindergarten thru 6th grade (2006-2007 school year) Everybody plays, everybody has fun, and everything revolves around developing a relationship with God through Jesus Christ and living in a way that glorifies God. That’s what Upward Basketball and Cheerleading is all about! The real stars in this world are not the ones who run the fastest or jump the highest; the real stars are the ones who honor God and honor others by the way they practice and play the game. This program promotes character and selfesteem in every child by providing:

P Equal playing time for P

each player One-hour practice and a game each week with devotions An evaluation process to provide equal opportunity for improvement Players sign up as an individual, not as a group or team Separate leagues for boys and girls

All participants MUST attend one evaluation. Evaluations will be held October 12, 13, 14. Practices for both basketball and cheerleading

will be one night a week on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday with games on Friday or Saturday. Practices begin December 11 and games begin January 5. Awards Night will be Thursday, March 1 to celebrate a fun and exciting season. Parents are needed to be coaches, referees and squad leaders. If you would like to volunteer, you must fill out an Upward ’06-’07 volunteer form and a background check must be completed. All volunteers must attend an Upward training November 10 or 11.

Registration forms and volunteer forms will be available in the preschool and elementary gathering areas, gymnasium and also on our website at under Recreation, beginning Friday, September 1. For more information or if you have questions, contact Janet Teel, Upward Programs/Recreation at jteel@asburytulsa.org or at 392-1199 ext. 247. Don’t be left out. Everybody wins. Everybody gets awards. And every participant is a STAR!

Students Return from Dayspring

2006 Asbury Dayspring Crew: 76 students and 30 leaders Students wrote areas of their lives that were broken on the back of a piece of tile and then stuck it to the cross, symbolizing that Jesus is the only One who can heal the broken areas of our hearts.

Laura Chitwood, Amy Malnar, Kelsey Davis, Kirsten Stukey and Danielle Jones hanging out in the Tabernacle. ASBURY TIDINGS 4

Notes from the Journey

The Fraternity of the Poor By Lisa Tresch

BLESSED ARE THE POOR IN SPIRIT, FOR THEIRS IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. . . MATTHEW 5:3

aty had a lot of problems. We knew this because each week she shared them with us. She had grown up not attending church, and after being broken by a multitude of bad relationships she came knocking on the door of our inner city church in Phoenix. She began to come to our

Sunday school class and share her hurts, fears and needs in a gut-honest way that made us squirm. She was also quite open about her sinful past, which made us squirm even more. We weren’t sure what to do with her. Katy opened her soul to us in a manner that crossed an imaginary line we had drawn at the door of our Sunday school room. After a while, she moved on to another church and things got comfortable again. We continued to wear our nice clothes and chat about our kids and nod at appropriate times during the Bible teaching. It wasn’t quite this sterile, but after a few months of Katy it kind of seemed that way. She had crossed our line. I thought about her quite a bit after she left. Actually, I thought about all of us as a community, and wondered if we had lived up to what we were supposed to be – or who we were supposed to be. Calvin Miller, in his book Once Upon a Tree, writes this: “The community of the Cross is a fellowship of poverty. Years ago, Louis Evely called the true church the ‘fraternity of the poor.’ He based his view of the church on Jesus’ Beatitude, ‘Blessed are the poor in spirit.’ Only the most spiritually destitute are aware of their needs. Only the poor let those needs draw them together in true community.” At a dinner at the super-

spiritual home of Simon the Pharisee, Jesus was moved by the sinful woman who broke into the comfortable fellowship and wept over the sorrowful state of her spiritual condition. She sat at the feet of Jesus and let her tears spill down her face and on his feet, and then wiped his feet with her hair and began to kiss them. She ended her act of worship by pouring perfume across his feet. She was a woman who had been broken and humbled, and like Katy, she made the super-spiritual in the room squirm in their discomfort for her wrenching display of contrition. Jesus made a point to share with Simon that this woman’s recognition of her sin caused her to be deeply grateful for the forgiveness that had cleansed her heart. And it caused her to love her Savior so deeply that she didn’t care about appearances. I often come into the community of the Cross looking more like Simon than the sinful woman. I don my spiritual cloak and put on a face that keeps me looking acceptable, but the truth is that I could have chimed right in with Katy and shared some weaknesses, fears and sinful ways of my own. On any given day I still could, but most of the time I wear my cloak and let people believe that I am better off than I really am. If the church is to be a true community, then the cloaks must be dropped. Only then can we fall at the feet of Jesus, admit our needs and be drawn together as a true community--a “fraternity of the poor” who love the Savior and others with the passion of one who has been forgiven much.

You may read more of Lisa’s work at www.lisatresch.com 5

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Traveling the Road to Recovery:

Sandy Wagner

hey’re sitting next to you in the Sanctuary on a Sunday morning. They’re in their Sunday best, looking clean and pristine. Like Tom illustrated for us in a recent sermon when he removed his bright and shiny shoe to show us the “hole in the sole.” A perfect analogy—we look spic and span on the outside, but often we have a hole in our ASBURY TIDINGS

soul.

nce in a Celebrate Recov ery support group I was facilitating, a woman lamented, “Oh, I wish I had my life together like all the people that sit around me at church.” I was quick to respond, “Oh no, you just don’t know their stories.” You see, there seems to be a mindset about CR because it is a “recovery” ministry that it’s only there for alcoholics and drug addicts. It is true that it is available for those with addictions, but it is also true that it is so much more. It is available and useful for anyone with hurts, habits and hang-ups that needs to be brought before God for healing. I know because I was, and am, the person sitting next to you in the Sanctuary. You know, clean, welldressed, a 69-year old with gray hair—the epitome of the infamous “church lady” with her life in order. But, of course, that wasn’t true of me either. And it’s probably not true of you. Let me explain. My introduction to Celebrate Recovery was through research for a Tidings article. I was intrigued about the possibilities that CR could bring to Asbury. I decided to volunteer when the call went out for leaders. I discovered that we had to first go through the 12-Steps and recovery, based on the Beatitudes. I agreed, but didn’t feel I especially needed it. After all, I had been in church most of my life and experienced a significant spiritual rebirth 27 years ago. God and I had done lots of business and I felt I had brought most of my past before Him for healing. “Will this be pain revisited?” I wondered. My past included several devastating rapes in my early teen years. I never told anyone about those for various reasons. Anyone a teen in the ‘50s would fully understand why I took those events, carefully wrapped them up, found an empty closet within my soul and put them there. I never told a 7

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soul until I was over 50 years old. Regardless, I felt deep shame as if somehow I had caused these horrible things to happen to me. Not only had these young men stolen my purity, they had stolen something much worse—my feelings of self-worth and value. During this time and in subsequent years, I kept going to church, but I was living exactly as I pleased. My life became a contradiction. Outwardly, I appeared to be doing all the right and good things. Unfortunately, I was very mixed up concerning my need for love. College. Marriage. Children. As my life went on I was living the good, “enlightened” life—at least by the world’s standards. I was the liberated, capable, independent woman—Jack-ofall-trades, career woman, mother and lover. In short, superwoman. And it was a lie. Inside me there was always a desperation, a longing for something better, a need for comfort and love that no one seemed able to fill. In the ‘70s a number of sad and frightening events got my attention— divorce, my dad’s death, some trouble for my older son. This period was very scary. Inside I was falling apart. My whole world seemed shaken. I’m so glad now that it was. I started searching and my search brought me right back to my roots in Jesus Christ. Finally, I realized the price I was paying for disobedience to God. I was living in sin and I needed help. When it came to Jesus, I knew He was a wonderful man, the Son of God, but for some strange reason never knew that my relationship with Him was to be very personal. And I didn’t even have to “clean up my act” first. He would take me just as I was. I was tired of trying to live my life on my own and wasn’t doing so well. So, on a late spring day in 1979, I gave my heart and my life to Jesus Christ and was born again. God changed my life. So, as I prepared for involvement in Celebrate Recovery, I really felt that

God and I had dealt with most of the significant issues in my life. Certainly, there were many things I had brought before Him. God would bring something to mind, I would confess, and He would faithfully, forgive. He is so faithful to His word. Anyway, I did have second thoughts about revisiting the past. I wasn’t so sure I wanted to do that although I certainly did have some hurts, hang-ups and habits that I could work on. As I began the 12 Steps, I was amazed at some of the things God began to show me. He showed me in the safety of a group of loving, accepting “stepsisters,” that there was still some residue from my background that could use exposure to God’s healing light. He showed me that my tendency toward achievement was not always healthy or His will for my life. He showed how my fear of rejection or being hurt by men had caused me to erect some barriers that needed to be torn down. I am acutely aware now that recovery is truly going to be a lifelong project. After all, recovery is simply letting God do for us what we cannot do for ourselves while also taking the steps necessary to draw closer to Him. As the late Henri Nouwen said, “. . . We live with broken bodies, broken hearts, broken minds or broken spirits. We suffer from broken relationships. ”How can we live our brokenness? Jesus invites us to embrace our brokenness as he embraced the Cross and live it as part of our mission. He asks us not to reject our brokenness as a curse from God that reminds us of our sinfulness but to accept it and put it under God’s blessing for our purification and sanctification. Thus our brokenness can become a gateway to new life.” Remember, those people with brokenness are sitting next to you on Sunday morning. And that person might be you.

Traveling the Road to Recovery:

Glen Grusendorf

ello, my name is Glen Grusendorf. I am a believer who has been delivered from drug addiction and other bad behaviors.

ASBURY TIDINGS

am 45 years old, have been married for 15 years

mercy of God He delivered me from this desire.

Him. With God in my life I now realize all things are truly possible

and have a wonderful marriage. I have a 19-year-old son and a

Since 1987, I have pretty much lived a life of good works and

and it does not take things, events or other people to bring me joy and

three-year-old daughter. Now I will start my story by

have been a productive (not destructive citizen). My good works

peace in my life. My happiness comes through living one day at a

telling you that for years and years as a child and adult I had a large

did not include attending church, praying, or reading the Bible. I rarely

time with my Lord and Savior. I shared with God the plan I

hole in my heart. This hole caused me lots of pain, bitter-

attended church, almost never read my Bible and would only pray in

had to start my own ministry, a 12Step program that acknowledged

ness, sadness and unhappiness. My answer was to always try and

times of need. After all, why should I do these things? I am a good

Jesus Christ as the one and only healing power in our lives. As God

fill this hole with the ways of the World not the ways of the Lord.

person, I have a great wife, good job, nice home, nice cars and a

often does, He said, “Great!” This prayer led my wife and

Now, don’t get me wrong I knew who the Lord was and as an

good kid. Why do I need God? You know I did have some happiness,

me to California to visit a Ministry called Celebrate Recovery. We

eighth grader accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. For

some good times. What I did not have was peace or joy in my life,

went to Saddleback church in March of 2003 and it was truly

me that didn’t last long. I did the same thing again at the age of 18.

nor was my life to be considered abundant. It took things and events

amazing, I could not believe my own eyes and ears. The pres-

I went back into the ways of the world again after about three

to make that happiness and my happiness would not last very long.

ence of the Holy Spirit and God’s healing power were everywhere.

months. However, lucky for me the Holy Spirit would stay with me

The result was that I still had this large hole in my heart.

The people radiated with joy and peace in their lives and it was

and attempt to help me. I thought I knew better and did not need the

In 2002 I finally decided to fill that large hole in my heart. The

obvious to me the Lord was showing me something very

Lord’s help or advice. The Lord protected me

great news is that I decided to fill that hole with the one and only

special. What I learned from the Lord and Celebrate Recovery was

countless times from death and self-destruction and I do mean

thing capable of filling it. I chose to give my heart, soul, mind and

this ministry would be helping any body who was humble enough to

that literally. I had fallen deeply into the world, dealing and using

strength to my Lord Jesus Christ. During the last four years my

admit they were not perfect and needed help understanding God’s

drugs all day every day. At the peak of my addiction I used

life has changed so drastically and wonderfully I really don’t know where

grace and His healing power in their lives. This ministry also helps

insane amounts of drugs daily. I am proud to say that I have

to begin, except to say that now the Lord has turned an ugly sickness

you understand what God’s will is for you and gives you the under-

not used hard drugs for over 24 years. What I am not proud to tell

into a wonderful gift. That gift is a completely transformed life. I now

standing and strength to live in His will instead of your own.

you is that although I was able with the help of Jesus Christ to

enjoy reading and studying my Bible, prayer time, and telling others of the

Thank you for allowing me to share with you a little bit about

quit using hard drugs. I was a “pot head” until the summer of

wonders of Jesus Christ. God has shown me that to have a life of

who I am and the ministry the Lord has called me too.

2002 when by the grace and

abundance it will have to include

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Traveling the Road to Recovery:

am Albert Kahl, a grateful believer in Jesus Christ (undeserving, but grateful). God has delivered me from anger and self-destructive behavior. Currently God is dealing with me on my tendency to be a workaholic and my codependent relationships. I have learned that no matter what I am going through, whatever trial, hurt, habit or hang-up, it’s going to be okay; it can be turned into a good thing in God’s economy. He will not waste a hurt, not one. My journey started on a July Sunday afternoon. A knock came on the door and a delightful couple from Asbury was standing there. They introduced themselves, stuck out their hands in true Christian fellowship, laced with the love of Jesus, and offered a kind word. This was a defining moment in my life. I was witnessing love in action. I would like to say that I was changed in a flash that very moment, but I can’t. I was letting situations in my life overwhelm me. I was not seeing any good from my circumstances and was focusing on the bad, negative things in my life. This couple came with love to share and what they found was a very angry, broken, misdirected and misguided man with little hope. This became the start of my recovery after a 14-year span of walking in darkness. It had been a time of bad choices, where I had turned my back on God.

Albert Kahl

I have had two failed marriages, the first of which had left scars beyond my comprehension. There had been other attempts at relationships that ended in failure. I do have three beautiful daughters who are separated from one another in three different states because of my choices. I am reminded daily of the miles between us and of the consequences of my bad decisions. In January 2005, I started Celebrate Recovery. Originally, I went to hear the Praise and Worship band. What I didn’t know was just how much I needed CR. It was an experience I won’t forget. I had never been associated with a church with those types of support groups. This ministry has changed my life in so many ways. I have learned that no matter what a person is going through that it’s okay because this is a family giving unconditional love in a safe place. It’s people helping one another through life. It’s knowing that you’re not alone and there are people there teaching and giving you hands-on training. Through CR I have been able to release the things which had

previously overwhelmed me. We sometimes spend so much emotional energy on trivial matters we have little left to show the love of Christ to others. That was me completely. There is no question about it, God has changed me. My attitude, my prayer life, my words continue to change everyday. I want and need Jesus Christ to show me how to live my life. I had to choose to forgive and act in caring ways. This ministry has given me the chance to give back and I am helping in a new CR program in Claremore. From a simple handshake and love in action to a saved life. That’s what Asbury and CR have brought me. I am now where God wants me to be and I can’t imagine my life without Celebrate Recovery. I want to be all that God designed me to be.

Albert Kahl and daughters Amanda and Kayla. ASBURY TIDINGS

Traveling the Road to Recovery:

J.T. Tate

y name is J.T. and I am a grateful believer in Jesus Christ. I am celebrating recovery from emotional and sexual abuse and grief over the death of my daughter from a drug overdose. Also, I am recovering from many poor decisions that affected my life and the lives of my children. I struggle with issues of trust, discernment, self doubt, anger and pride. One of my biggest challenges after the death of my daughter was raising my granddaughter. For eight years, I longed to be her grandmother, not her parent. In 1998, I started attending Asbury I came to worship service and God would comfort my aching heart with the words from Tom’s sermons. I would continue to attend church because I would always feel better when I left. Time went by and I became more interested in becoming a part of Asbury. After two years of being a regular visitor, I decided to join. Little by little I became more and more involved in church. My faith began to grow and God showed His love to me through Sunday community andAlpha 11 ASBURY TIDINGS

ministry. Then an announcement was made that a new ministry was starting up called Celebrate Recovery. In the summer 2004 I began a journey that God would use to change my life. Celebrate Recovery and the 12 Step Study is giving me hope that my life really can be better. Colossians 3:10 says “You are living a brand new kind of life that is constantly learning more and more of what is right and trying constantly to be more and more like Christ who created this new life within you.” I am convinced that Jesus loves me unconditionally and His grace is my free gift. I am getting it, God wants me to turn over to Him my lack of selfconfidence so I can be a better servant and disciple of His love. My sick pride is on the mend. I am beginning to share myself and ask others for help. God is helping me with forgiveness. God is showing me that He has forgiven me and that I can forgive myself. This has been a really big one for me, because I have spent many years beating myself up for mistakes and bad choices.

J.T. and friend Jack Carter I will always have grief in my heart because I will always be a parent whose child died. God is taking away the intense pain and using my experience to help others. Sometimes people ask me how I cope with that kind of hurt. I tell them that I have a peace and joy in my heart that I don’t even start to comprehend. It is a beautiful gift from God. God truly heals hurts. My faith is greater than I ever imagined. I love my church and fellow worshipers. God has placed a desire in my heart to serve. I have made new friends that are valuable to me and my old friendships are improved and improving. I am excited and look forward to what lies ahead. I am learning that tomorrow can be brighter. However hopeless I feel, it’s not too hopeless for God’s grace. In John 8:12, Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Let God’s light shine into your darkness.

Traveling the Road to Recovery:

hen I looked in the mirror the day of the first Celebrate Recovery class, I saw what appeared to be a caring, compassionate, happy person, ready to learn to lead a 12Step program for people with hurts, habits and hang-ups. At no point did I see the true person that God revealed to me during the course of CR. I had a “veil” over my face so that I, as well as others, could not see the real me. What I kept deeply hidden, even from myself, was a lost, fearful person carrying unresolved anger and hurts from past events in my life. My relationship with Jesus was nonexistent. I prayed to God, but did not know His Son. I read the Bible occasionally when faced with a problem, but it didn’t make sense to me. While I appeared caring and compassionate, more often than not I behaved as an egocentric servant, focused on myself while helping others. I was unhappy where I worked and had only a few friends. Relationships with some of my family members were fragmented and filled with strife. After being divorced, I only dated men that I would not consider marrying, and often vowed that I would never marry again. I appeared financially successful, but I struggled to balance my checkbook and make ends meet. My life was in chaos, all while attempting to achieve the “American Dream.” Through CR, which is a Christ-centered program framed by the Beatitudes, I finally turned my will and life over to the care of God. I was fearful that He would not be there, would not be listening

Jan Shaklee Carr and would not protect me. What a turbulent time, filled with tears and turmoil as I faced the fears and events of my life that had been hidden deeply. Despite the troubles, I learned that God is faithful and He was waiting for me to ask Him to be in my life. I began reading Scripture daily and journaling, praying that God would reveal to me those things that displeased Him. I removed my rosecolored glasses and actually looked at myself in the mirror, which was becoming clearer as I practiced the steps of the program. Through guided introspection that resulted in a “fearless moral inventory” and through the grace of God, I felt the veil dropping from my face, releasing me to become a new person. I emerged from the CR process as best expressed in Colossians 3:10, living a brand new kind of life. I

am continually learning more of what is right and trying to be more Christlike. Because the veil dropped, I could now see clearly the plans God had for me. I seek God’s Word daily in all things, resulting in a thirst for knowledge of the Word. The Beatitudes, which once were so foreign to me, are now the framework for how I interact with others. Because of this, my relationships with others improved, particularly as I found the ability to forgive myself and others through Christ. Amazingly, God gifted me with a loving husband and a blessed marriage, one that is founded in Scripture and encompassed by God’s love and the love of friends and family. God led me to a career change involving underprivileged children. I would not have made this change had I not followed His guidance. I strive to reflect in the mirror the presence of the Holy Spirit working through me, and hopefully the joy He has placed in my heart. I know without a doubt that Celebrate Recovery leaders, volunteers and participants have impacted my life beyond measure. Asbury is truly blessed by this ministry.

BUT WE CHRISTIANS HAVE NO VEIL OVER OUR FACES; WE CAN BE MIRRORS THAT BRIGHTLY REFLECT THE GLORY OF THE LORD. (2 CORINTHIANS 3:18) ASBURY TIDINGS

Traveling the Road to Recovery: Craig Conaway ’m Craig Conaway a believer delivered from depression and

anxiety. I accepted Christ at age 15 but quickly caved in to peer pressure and returned to my old ways. I marriemy wife Denise at 19 and this year we celebrated 32 years of marriage.We have two children and two grandchildren who bring us much joy. I recently read a book, “Shattered Dreams.” The author says a man is born with a desire for a close relationship with God, but men seem to confuse this with wealth, sex, power and material things. As an adult I was consumed with the standards of the world, believing this defined success and happiness. There was a time I believed I was close to achieving these goals. My business success allowed me to have many of the material possessions and power I had dreamed of for years. I soon realized this was not bringing me joy or contentment. Something was still missing. I continued to covet their possessions. I decided my answer would be to have more leisure time to enjoy the things I had acquired. While pursuing happiness away from my business,

the obvious started to happen. My business began to spiral downward. Eventually the business closed and my “dreams were shattered.” I struggled with anxiety and many sleepless nights. Embarrassed and ashamed, I sought counseling. By random luck I chose a Christian counselor. (I now know this was not random luck.) This counselor introduced me to God’s healing power. The counselor helped me change my perception of all the negative things I believed Christianity meant to me. Our family visited Asbury in March 2004. This began an incredible journey of faith and growing. We were in Tom and Dana Harrison’s 40 Days of Purpose group. This led us to join the church where I met Dub Ambrose and soon joined a Joshua Men’s group. This led to meeting Glen Grusendorf. Being a church member I needed a place to serve. Since I knew Glen I thought, “Well, I will go help ‘those people’ in Celebrate Recovery.” After three meetings I realized that I needed CR more than they needed me. I was amazed by the way people shared with each other. I loved the confidential setting and safe environment and this gave me inspiration to photo by Amy Miller

ASBURY TIDINGS

seek God’s healing and help in my life. I joined a step study group soon after attending on Monday nights and became very close to this small group of men that met every Thursday morning. We learned together how to surrender to God and live our lives with Jesus leading the way. I found that I was looking forward to and depending upon my CR meetings to refuel me each week. Paul writes in Romans 5:3-5, “We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that sufferings produce perseverance: perseverance, character: and character Hope.” I still have problems in my life today, the difference is the joy and peace I have experienced in growing closer to God, knowing that my future is secure with Him. Through the CR testimonies, praise and worship, small groups, and my 12-Step group, I have had my eyes opened to the healing power of the Holy Spirit. I have witnessed many positive changes within individuals during the past year. I would encourage all to come and witness for themselves the transformations that take place within this ministry.

Traveling the Road to Recovery:

Valerie Smith

y name is Valerie Smith and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a grateful believer in Jesus Christ. I have been delivered from a destructive relationship with alcohol and today I struggle with an eating disorder, low self-esteem, social anxiety, and relationship issues. ASBURY TIDINGS 14

was born in Tulsa to wonderful parents and have lived here most of my life. As long as I can remember, God has always been a part of my life. Asbury has always been my church home, even during those times when I didn’t think I needed a church. In 1985, my mom discovered a lump in her breast that turned out to be her first bout with cancer. In 1987, my sophomore year at OSU, I discovered alcohol and guys, which became my escape from the pain and reality of my life. My college years hold memories I’m not proud of—too much alcohol, too many guys, and grades that did’t reflect my abilities. The years after college brought my first DUI and several destructive relationships, including one with an alcoholic. That relationship lasted on and off for seven years. I became incredibly codependent during that time and he broke my heart more times than I care to admit. In 1992 my mom was again diagnosed with cancer. She died in 1995. It was then that I began purging to cope, and this would become my biggest struggle. I used numerous brief relationships as a way of escape, but I would not allow any of them to get serious. I’ve avoided getting close to any man and have never had a healthy dating relationship. In January 2002 I was again arrested for DUI. Still reeling from that, I got a call that my dad

15 ASBURY TIDINGS

needed a quadruple bypass. He died a week later. The next few years were a downward spiral for me. I began drinking at home alone, escalating to a bottle of wine or more a night just to fall asleep, and I was purging two or three times a day. Nonetheless, I functioned at work, began attending church again, rejoined Asbury and even became a Stephen Minister. From the outside, it looked like I was pulling it all together. December 31, 2004 was the night that changed my life. I was arrested for a third DUI. I literally threw up my arms to God and said, “Okay, I give up! I admit that I can’t do this anymore. Take over from here. Whatever happens to me, I’m willing to accept. Just please help me, because I don’t have the strength to do this on my own. I can’t do it without you anymore.” I felt a peace come over me and I knew from that moment on it would be okay. Not easy, but okay. I truly believe it was an intervention from God. I was so scared of what was going to happen to me and now I’m terrified of where I’d be if I hadn’t been arrested. Shortly after my DUI, Glen Grusendorf came and shared his testimony at a Stephen Ministry meeting and talked about Celebrate Recovery. As always, in God’s perfect timing it was just what I needed to hear. I signed up for a 12Step study and in May started my group. After a few meetings I shared for

the first time that I had an eating disorder. While I’m still battling this, with God’s help, day by day, I’m making progress. I’m so blessed by the support and friendship I’ve found at CR. It has truly changed my life and restored my faith in myself, the church, and God as the God of miracles. During the last 20 years of my life God was always there for me. He was always my Savior, my God of grace, mercy, salvation, and forgiveness. But because of the losses I had suffered, I had lost faith in Him as my God of miracles. Because of CR and what He has restored in my life, I know He is a God of amazing miracles. They may not be the miracles we desire, but He does perform miracles. I’m living proof. I need only look in the mirror each morning to be reminded of what He can do if we just give Him the chance. I have 18 months of recovery from alcohol abuse and I’m confident that as I continue to work the steps, I will eventually be able to say that about the bulimia. I look at the changes God has made in me through CR and I’m amazed. Everything I’ve been through, all the hurts, bad choices, experiences, have made me who I am today and I can’t change any of it. But I know that nothing I’ve done changes the fact that I’m a child of God. He loves me just as I am and for today, for now, that’s enough.

Traveling the Road to Recovery:

y parents divorced when I was six. I spent the next several years going back and forth between parents. There was very little parental control from either set. I started drinking, smoking and having sex at the age of 13, and moved into drugs at 14. I dropped out of school at 15 and joined the hippie movement, which meant I was qualified to sleep in laundromats and caves, and go two to three days without eating. I got off of drugs after I overdosed and ended up in the hospital. By this time I had met Susan, the girl I would later marry. Because I wanted to be close to Susan, I started back to school at her high school. A few years after we got married, we started attending church on a fairly regular basis. Several years ago, I started my music ministry at Asbury in the old Saturday night service. I have been involved with many worship teams since and

Wayne & Susan Parsons

am currently playing on three Celebrate Recovery teams. I started into CR because I thought I could help “those” people. I soon realized I was one of those people. CR allows me to minister to myself. In fact, God’s Word tells me I am to remove the beam from my own eye before I try to take the speck of sawdust from someone else’s eye. As I was going through the 12-Step program, some issues were revealed to me that I thought I had put behind me. By God revealing them to me, I was able to address them and move on. Since joining CR, I have worked on many issues, and will continue to work on others as God reveals them to me. Celebrate Recovery provides a safe place for me to work on my “things.” -Wayne Parsons

ASBURY TIDINGS 16

y childhood was relatively unremarkable. I was raised in Tulsa in a middle-class home by two loving parents. I went to the same grade school, middle school, and high school. My parents both loved God, but we weren’t very active in church. As a child, I was overweight. I felt that nobody could love me because of my weight. I felt that I was worthless. So I decided to diet. In middle school I would eat no breakfast, Jello for lunch, and a small dinner. In high school I ate no breakfast, no lunch, and a small dinner. There would be days I would skip eating altogether. I also would take laxatives to flush out what I would eat. I felt fat, ugly, and unloved. I carried this attitude well into my marriage, which affected not only my marriage, but my relationship with others and my self-esteem. I developed “quirks” such as obsessive compulsive disorder, neatness and perfectionism. After I was married we became fairly active in church and through the grace of God, I have been able to overcome most of my “quirks.” I was introduced to Celebrate Recovery when my husband, Wayne, was asked to play on the worship team. Celebrate Recovery has allowed me to realize I still have some issues that need to be addressed, but I am working through them with the help of God and my extended family at CR. I have found other people who have similar struggles and I am able to grow from their experience. At Celebrate Recovery people support me and don’t judge me. Welcome to the family. -Susan Parsons

17 ASBURY TIDINGS

Traveling the Road to Recovery:

e are all a product of our past. From our childhood continuing through many life experiences, they all seem to make their mark. Unfortunately, many of those marks are not good. Both of my parents were alcoholics and my father was physically abusive. I dropped out of high school three weeks before graduation and left home. I married and divorced twice by the time I was 21 years old. I have suffered a great deal of shame and guilt over this early part of my life, and have been treated for chemical depression for over 20 years. Many years ago I read a book

Joan Henning

about adult children of alcoholics and recognized many of the personality characteristics that I had developed as a result of my upbringing. I knew my overly responsible, driven personality and difficulty in dealing with conflict or confrontation were result of my childhood. While part of that drive made me very successful professionally, I didn’t recognize the damage that resulted until going through the Celebrate Recovery 12-step program. I’ve had counseling several times in my adult life and always found it very beneficial. It was difficult for me to see how a 12-step program could help someone so much without the benefit of a professional counselor. What an amazing journey of self discovery it has been! I learned my being overly responsible made it very easy for me to be codependent. My inability to deal with confrontation brought resentment, and that resentment was very damaging to my relationships with those I loved. One more characteristic I had not learned was that adult children of alcoholics have to guess at what normal is. I set the mark high and have had very high expectations of myself all my life, and that is very tiring! (I can see the smiles on the faces of my Asbury friends that know me well. They’ve been observing this

behavior for a long time!) Through this 12-Step journey, God was very kind to me, gently revealing these and other behaviors that I needed to work on. Many times these revelations came through the comments of someone else in my 12step group. That is the value in taking this journey of discovery with others. As Tom has said, we are all goofed up. We all have character flaws and behaviors that make it challenging for others to work and live with us. We live a lot of our life with a bit of selfdeception, choosing not to look at those things we might not like about ourselves. Only with God’s help can we discover for ourselves what we want and need to change, and only with God’s help can we make those changes. Through involvement with Celebrate Recovery, I remain conscious about identifying behaviors that I would like to change. I am continually make new discoveries. My relationships with people here at Asbury have been helping me grow spiritually the past several years and are one of my greatest gifts from God. They have loved me in spite of my flaws just as Christ commanded. I don’t want to imagine what my life would be like if I was still a Sunday morning Christian. Too many years, I would look around the Sanctuary and think most of the people were living the perfect life . . . that they were all better Christians than me, and I’m sure many were. But the majority were just like me, appearing to have it all together, but struggling with some kind of life issue. How fortunate I am that I can share any struggle with my support network here at Asbury.

ASBURY TIDINGS 18

Traveling the Road to Recovery: Dan Draper

grew up in a somewhat dysfunctional family essentially destroyed by the resulting effects of various addictions and other “generational curses.” Through that, however, I remained involved with my church and was able to build a strong relationship with the Lord. That all ended when I discovered alcohol when I was 13. From that point on, over the next approximately 20 years, alcohol became my answer, my best friend, my rock . . . my god. The person I thought I was (and didn’t much like) disappeared with alcohol. I was funny, outgoing, unafraid and confident. No matter what the circumstances, my alcohol always gave me exactly what I needed. I didn’t need anyone or anything else, so I thought. High school turned into college, college into graduate school, graduate school into law school, and law school into a professional career. It would be an understatement to say I am lucky to have survived through those years. It is only by the grace of God that I did. Yet, I had no desire to walk with the Lord and seek His will for my life. It was incompatible with my choices and lifestyle of trying to be in control of my own life, notwithstanding how out of control it was. My wife and I joined Asbury in 2000. By that time, I had for several years been looking for a way to overcome and eliminate my “demons” that were perpetuating my self-imposed destruction, and I sought many various secular recovery methods for healing. But I was not looking to the Lord for healing or forgiveness, nor was I dedicating my life to Him and seeking His will in my life. When we joined a discipleship community in 2003, the power of God’s grace in the lives of other community members and their families made me realize what I was missing, what I chose to give up 20 years earlier, and what I didn’t know how to get back in my life, but desperately wanted. 19

ASBURY TIDINGS

In the fall of 2004, Pastor Tom recommended that I try a new ministry that had been established at Asbury that year–Celebrate Recovery. It took me (to my regret) another six months of heartache and pain to get there. Once I did however, I was welcomed with open arms and realized that I was finally where I needed to be to re-commit my life to Christ and renew my walk with the Lord. It is nearly impossible to describe the Lord’s miraculous healing power that occurs at Asbury each Monday night. While each person may attend for a different reason or reasons—whether “small” or “large” (albeit the Lord views all sins equally)—the commonality of purpose among sinners of all ages and walks of life seeking God’s healing

Grace and humbling themselves together before the Lord in love, compassion and honesty, makes this ministry truly one of a kind. It is one that every member of this church and every citizen of the Tulsa community can benefit from beyond description. After all, aren’t we all sinners? I would not be where I am today without CR, its leadership and the Lord’s work through this ministry. Wherever you are in your walk in life and with the Lord, I strongly urge you to give CR a try.

any people in our church know I came to Tulsa from prison. I had many challenges

My life is full of character defects that I want Christ to change. It is really nice to walk with

ahead of me. The Lord had gone before me and prepared a way by placing people in my path to

people who I can be honest with and not have to put up a front as I confront these defects.

encourage me and help me learn to walk in ways that were different from ways I had chosen

Everybody has problems. Some are willing to work on these defects and some are wanting to

before. My first step into Tulsa was the Exodus House. The Exodus House is apartments pro-

keep them a secret. A person is either in recovery or in denial.

vided for those getting out of prison. It is a place that is safe and allows the ex-offender to reenter

John 11: 9-10 tells a story about walking in the light versus walking in the dark. It is only the dark

life outside of prison and get on their feet. While at the Exodus House a really good friend that I

secrets that remain and cause havoc. I can work on stuff in my life when I know it’s there and am

had met through prison ministry would come and pick me up and bring me to Asbury.

willing to admit it’s there. I know my life has had extreme lows in it.

While at Asbury I became involved in a great community called the Vineyard. They were so

There is no one in the world that has life totally together and does not need to work on something.

supportive and encouraging and loved me unconditionally. They are still so willing to pray with me

If they say they have no problems or issues, that in itself is an issue.

regarding any issue I have in my life. My life was drawn a little closer to God

I want to share a quick struggle I have faced lately. My younger sister had a terrible battle with

though a ministry called Stand In The Gap. My team members were useful tools of the Lord to

breast cancer. The Lord was gracious and allowed time for my family and me to have healing and a

help my children and me regain relationship and healing. Also, very importantly, the Lord knew

time of bonding with my sister before He took her home. We gained such a closeness and it was

recovery was an issue for me. My Stand In The Gap team said I must get into a 12-Step meeting

wonderful, but at the same time it was also the most difficult thing I have ever faced. My step

because recovery had to be a priority. I argued. I felt I had worked the 12 steps while in prison and I

sisters from CR were the friends who walked through this terrible time in life with me. They were

did not need another program. I knew the material and I was not going to use drugs again.

there and offered such support throughout my sister’s last days and her death. I am so grateful

Long story short, I came to be a part of a ministry called Celebrate Recovery. There I have

the Lord surrounded me with such wonderful friends.

learned I don’t just work the steps once in my life, I work them daily. I admit I am powerless and my

The Lord has used many friends and ministries in my life.

life is crazy sometimes. I need a power greater than myself Who is willing to restore my life. I

I am grateful for where I have been and where I am going. God has been good to me.

want Jesus Christ to be my Lord and Teacher, my Master.

ASBURY TIDINGS 20

Traveling the Road to Recovery:

Rhonda Poteet

BRING MY SOUL OUT OF PRISON , THAT I MAY PRAISE THY NAME: THE RIGHTEOUS SHALL COMPASS ME ABOUT; FOR THOU SHALT DEAL BOUNTIFULLY WITH ME. . . PSALMS 142:7

21 ASBURY TIDINGS

Taking Off the Blinders By Rod Giles

But the real story is found in

could get past the frustration to

friends for lunch. We were driving

Romans 12:15. It was the basis

enjoy our friends and lunch.

separate cars to the restaurant,

for a lesson taught on an Asbury

Whew!!

and for some reason my wife

marriage retreat weekend. It

Charlene was late. I kept looking

reads, “Rejoice with those who

out of the window hoping she

rejoice; mourn with those who

pleasure and security, to raise

would appear, but time kept slip-

mourn.” Paul is telling us to show

children, to grow closer to Him.

ping away. Then I saw her pull into

empathy toward one another,

But in our humanness we can

the parking lot, get out of the car

especially in marriage. So, instead

often hurt the ones we love the

and walk toward the front door. I

of trying to explain away what I had

most because they are closest to

knew from her walk and the look

done, I knew just what to do! I

us. Asbury offers several opportu-

on her face that she was very

rushed out to meet her, told her

nities for husbands and wives (and

upset. I knew instantly what had

what happened and empathized

even engaged couples) to learn

happened and a thought ran

with her how frustrated, disap-

how to do marriage God’s way, to

through my head, “I know how to

pointed and angry she must feel. I

make it all that He intended it to be.

fix this!”

put myself in her place. I told her

e were meeting some

how sorry I was to upset her. I

God invented marriage for our

Marriage enrichment retreats are

could see in her face the anger

only one way Asbury impacts

agreed that I would pick her up

and hurt started to melt away. By

families in our church. I recently

before our lunch meeting so we

the time we entered the restaurant

attended an Asbury couples’

could ride together. And I forgot!

my wife was liking me more and

communication workshop held at

The truth is Charlene and I

ASBURY TIDINGS 22

a wonderful lakeside ranch retreat

In 1992, Pastor Bill Mason

couples who go through the

near Wagoner. One key point

wanted to have a program to

program decide not to marry.

made was we should expect to

mentor engaged couples, helping

Ministry leaders say that is a good

have conflict in marriage. After 35

them prepare for a lifetime of

thing if divorce can be avoided.

years of marriage, that was no

marriage, not just the hoopla of the

surprise to me. But, you know, I

wedding day. After months of work

never considered that idea when I

by a group of volunteer couples,

Ministry offers opportunities to

asked Charlene to marry me. Our

Asburyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Couple to Couple minis-

strengthen marriages. Another

marriage was going to be different

try was born. Nearly, 14 years

enrichment retreat will be held this

because we really loved one an-

later, Couple to Couple is recog-

fall and in early 2007, a frank and

other. We both learned over time

nized as one of the most effective

enriching study of the Song of

that avoiding conflict didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t eliminate

programs of its kind in the country.

Solomon is planned with Tommy

it or solve the difficult issues of living

Mentor couples meet with en-

Nelson. (Adults only, please.)

together in a world pulling us in all

gaged couples of all ages and talk

directions. Now, when the really big

about the realities of marriage.

Log onto the Marriage Ministry

issues come up, the ones with the

More importantly, the mentoring

web page at www.asburytulsa.org

explosiveness of an atom bomb, we

couples model what a Christian

and see what is scheduled next.

have tools to sort out key issues

marriage is like. Many engaged

Learn how to make marriage all

and to come to solutions we both

couples have never experienced a

that God intends.

can live with. What a difference a

relationship where God is at the

weekend can make!

core. About seven percent of the

23 ASBURY TIDINGS

Each semester Asbury Marriage

Lost Dreams By Nikki Boyd

Gillian – I was raised in England and attended the

leaders and I began to see God move. I began to understand His

plane, nestle down into your seat and dream about all the incredible

Church of England. My schooling introduced me to the importance

love, grace and mercy and learned to trust Him in all decisions.

things you’ll see. But when you step off the

of church and the person of God. I realized my need for a Supreme

plane, you realize you’re in a place you never expected. The sur-

Being, even at an early age.

has a master plan for my life is a comfort. I have learned what it

roundings are strange and unpleasant. What should have been

Kelly – I accepted Christ at New Life Ranch when I was 12

means to have faith. My intensity of knowing Jesus gets deeper

an experience of a lifetime is now consumed by disappointment and

years old.

every day and it excites me about the future.

loss.

Janie – I was brought up in the church and became a mem-

How did God lead you to be-

dream, we hope, but often we find

ber at 12. I can still vividly re-

come a part of Care Ministry?

ourselves in a place we did not expect to be – a place of pain. The

member that experience.

hurt can be so devastating it seems the wounds will never heal.

How has knowing Jesus transformed your life?

ou’ve planned your dream vacation. You board the

Divorce

Life can be like that. We

Gillian Layne (Co-facilitator, Divorce Recovery), Kelly Dudney

Gillian – Though I didn’t

(Supervision Coordinator, Stephen Ministry), and Janie Hedrick

attend for about 24 years, I turned back to the church when

(Bereavement Coordinator and Stephen Ministry Leader) have all

facing my divorce. My life was transformed when a friend

journeyed through pain. Each shares a special story of how God

helped me realize I had to completely turn my troubles over to

led them to hope by way of their struggle.

Christ. That is when I found freedom and “came to life again.”

Briefly describe how you came

. Kelly – As a teenager, I

to know Jesus Christ personally.

spent more time with Christ, Christian friends, and Young Life

Janie - Knowing the Lord

Gillian – When my husband of 24 years left me, I was overwhelmed with the terror of being alone. But as God healed my heart, encouragement of other Christians helped draw out my talents and

Grief

gifts and then I was able to give back and invest in others.

Kelly – Having a Master’s Degree in counseling, I knew God wanted to use me. In God’s perfect timing, I was able to be trained as a Stephen Minister. Janie – Even though divorce and the sudden death of my

ASBURY TIDINGS 24

Stephen Ministers second husband, God revealed His purpose. As the Lord took me

pose and my faith is stronger. God is gradually teaching me how to

through the healing process, I knew I would one day be involved

respond to people, how to be minister and understand their pain.

Holy Spirit. That our “care receivers” would find the encouragement and hope they need as they find someone who will listen.

in grief ministry. Kelly - I have learned that I What’s been your biggest blessing in being a part of this

must be in the Word daily; allowing God to speak to me and then

ministry?

minister to others. Listening is a major theme in Stephen Ministry

Gillian – Seeing countenances change and grief turned into hope; seeing success in life happen as something wonderful

and I’m learning how important it is to listen for God’s voice everyday. Janie - My experience has

Janie – I pray they would be willing to experience the pain in order to heal. Not to isolate themselves or listen to those who say, “Get over it.” “You will never get over it, but with the love of God and others, you will get THROUGH it.”

Jesus guarantees us that

comes from the pain.

helped me deal with my own father’s death. The Lord has

struggles will happen. (John 16:33) But along with this certainty comes

Kelly - Lives changed by God’s grace and mercy through

enabled me to grieve and support my mother in a loving way.

a promise of hope and power. “I have told you these things, so that

these caring relationships. God has done some amazing miracles!

What is your prayer for those

in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But

Janie - I can share with

experiencing the pain of divorce and loss?

take heart! I have overcome the world.”

others and give back in some way as a result of the losses I have

Gillian – To work through

So if you have landed in a place of pain, remember this is not your final destination. You are not alone; you can heal, you can find hope.

experienced in my life through divorce, death, anxiety and de-

and conquer their grief as they realize that through Christ, they

pression.

can build a new future. I pray God’s blessing on them as they

How has your involvement in Care Ministry impacted your

rely on Christ as their anchor.

own journey with Christ?

Kelly - That God would give our “caregivers” wisdom, compas-

Individuals desiring a Stephen Minister may call Naomi Mitchell

sion and complete reliance on the

at 437-1105.

Gillian – It’s given me pur-

25 ASBURY TIDINGS

Detours Along Life’s Highway

By Charlene Giles

e hadn’t planned on

grabbed your attention and forced

ing for the ultimate injury, He

spending the night in a tiny

you to make a detour. Possibly a

asked for support from his

town 100 miles from Tulsa. My

family member received a cancer

friends.

friend and I were zooming along

diagnosis or was given a prison

the interstate on our way home

sentence. Or maybe your detour

serve as your “AAA card” to

from a regional counseling con-

developed more gradually, like a

connect you to the resources you

ference, expecting to be home by

parent with progressive memory

need during hard times.

10 p.m. The whup, whup!, whup

problems, eventually diagnosed as

of a blowout was our first clue

Alzheimer’s. Or you might have a

teer teams that Asbury is able to

that plans had changed. Since

friend or family member whose

provide quality, Christ-centered

neither of us felt comfortable

wildly fluctuating moods were

options to folks who find them-

changing a tire in the dark, my

finally diagnosed as bipolar disor-

selves in any of the situations

AAA card and cell phone instantly

der or another mental illness.

mentioned above.

became my two most prized

In times of distress, the first

Our Asbury staff wants to

It is only due to loving volun-

When asked why she contin-

possessions. How reassuring to

step is to get real and admit there

ues to facilitate the Cancer

know that some capable person

is a problem. God wants us to be

Support Group after three years,

would soon arrive to help. By

humble enough to seek help, even

Marilyn Clay replied, “…because

midnight we were ready to roll,

if the detour is inconvenient,

individuals engaged in the battle

but we were exhausted. Even

expensive and frightening. Hurting

to defeat cancer need others who

though it wasn’t in the budget, we

people need help to find true,

understand their situation and the

changed plans and spent the

dependable, godly support.

struggles involved. The group

night in the nearest small town (a

As Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr.

provides participants with hope,

town so unremarkable I can’t

John Townsend write in How

information and love. We also

remember its name).

People Grow, “Jesus stayed

give gentle reminders that God’s

connected when he was hurt. In

love is unconditional and endur-

times on your own journey along

the Garden of Gethsemane, during

ing. The courage of the group’s

life’s highway when a crisis

one of his darkest hours of prepar-

participants is evident in every

Maybe there have been

ASBURY TIDINGS 26

meeting, and I feel privileged to

the best ways to support and

about that group (for family mem-

share in their lives.”

relate to their loved ones, while

bers of people affected by a mental

they are away and when they

illness): “It’s a confidential place to

caregiver to family members dealing

return. The eventual goal is to help

educate ourselves about mental

with Alzheimer’s, is part of a team of

that person reintegrate into soci-

illness and treatments available.

volunteers who recently began our

ety and church life.”

We’ve become very close friends

Jan Hunt, who has served as

Asbury Alzheimer’s Support Group.

You probably best know

who support each another during

According to Jan, she became

William Camp from the Praise

times of crisis.”

involved because of her passion to

and Worship team at the 9:15

Susan Howard, Ph.D., serves

encourage family members to

service. He also serves as the

as Asbury’s Professional Referrals

realize there is help and hope to

facilitator of Asbury’s Bipolar/

Consultant. Through phone consul-

survive the journey. In her words,

Depression Support Group.

tation, she seeks to direct hurting

“This is only possible with the ever-

People diagnosed as “bipolar” can

people to the level of professional

present love of God, and others to

lead normal lives. Once they have

mental health support required.

remind you of that love.”

earnestly committed themselves

Support. Love. Friends. Hope.

to recovery, self-acceptance is an

In some situations there is no real

recently began serving as a mom/

important step. In a safe environ-

hope without God. But by getting

son facilitation team for our Prison

ment where people get real about

real with God and others, some

Fellowship Support Group. Marge

their challenges and coping skills

have found that what began as a

says, “I have a passion to let

they are learning, everyone

detour has become a winding path

family members of those who are

benefits! This group began be-

of spiritual growth. Asbury is

incarcerated know that they are

cause Pastor Tom wanted Asbury

pleased to serve as “AAA support”

not alone! So many in our church

to be preventative about helping

for all who find they are negotiating

family are isolating themselves

depressed people connect to one

the “detours” of life.

instead of seeking Christian

another and God.

Marge and Robbie Creager

support available.” Robbie notes, “Together the members of the group figure out

An anonymous member of

Additional support literature,

the Family to Family Support

newsletters on Care Note racks at

Group says what she likes best

the South and Northeast doors.

THEN HE SAID TO THEM, “MY SOUL IS OVERWHELMED WITH SORROW TO THE POINT OF DEATH. STAY HERE AND KEEP WATCH WITH ME. . . MATTHEW 26:38 27 ASBURY TIDINGS

asbury opportunities general information Breakfast Served from 7:00-9:15 am. in the CLC Come enjoy fellowship with Asburians along with fresh donut s, bagels, biscuits & gravy, sausage, eggs, fruit, and cereal. $2 for adults & $1 for children 12 & under Sunday Morning Worship 8:00 am Mason Chapel (Traditional Communion) 9:15 am Sanctuary (Contemporary Communion) 11:00 am Sanctuary (Traditional) Sign interpreter provided 11:00 am Mason Chapel (Contemporary) Sundays for Children and Students 6 Weeks - 4 Years 8:00, 9:15, and 11:00 am K-6th Grades 9:15 or 11:00 am 7th, 8th & 9th Grades 9:15 & 11:00 am 10th, 11th & 12th Grades 9:15 am only Adult Discipleship Communities 8:00, 9:15, and 11:00 am and Wednesdays, 6:30 pm The Gazebo is Open ...each Sunday morning between services and Wednesday evenings from 5:30 - 7:00 pm. Perceptions and Prayer Journals on sale (note: the sermon notes page on the bulletin is designed to fit in the Prayer Journal), as well as selections in Pastor Tom’s Book Club. Asbury Wear is also for sale. Extra Mission: Possible dogtags are available for $1. Recycling Hey church family! Keep collecting those aluminum cans and bringing them to the church when you come! Once a month our resident “can man,” Jim Schulz, picks them up from the east side storage area and takes them to the recycling center for us. Gently toss your wellbagged cans into the fenced area, and be a part helping the children in our church and the community. Also, recycle unwanted p aper products. Two bins are available, located in the south and east parking lots. Asbury Family News is available at the Welcome Centers. It includes hospital lists, births, deaths, marriages, baptisms and military listings. Doors of Asbury posters are at the Welcome Centers...FREE! Suitable for framing. New Additions to the Library The Asbury Library is a wonderful resource. Thank you to all who continue to contribute books to our Library. Journey - Tulsa’s Century of Christian Faith, Leadership & Influence Available for $40 in the Gazebo. This beautiful book includes Asbury history, as well as other significant features. A beautiful gift!

access Hands of Love Sign Choir Sundays, 6:00-7:00 pm, Rm. 2821 Deaf Perceptions Discipleship Community Beginning Sunday, September 10 at 9:15 am in Rm 2314 (in the second-story hallway behind the kitchen), our non-hearing and hard-ofhearing will now have a Discipleship Community on Sunday mornings. Please come and join us for Bible study, prayer, and fellowship. Hearing people are welcome, too!

bible study See insert for a listing of available studies through Asbury Roadmap... for the journey of Christian Discipleship.Brochures with more details about courses being offered are available at each of the We lcom e C en te rs o r o nline at www.asburytulsa.org

care and support Blood Drive - Oklahoma Blood Institute November 19 from 8 am – 1 pm in the CLC. Call 477-0400 to schedule your appointment. GriefShare Support Group Tuesdays, September 12 - December 5 from 7:00-8:30 pm in Rm 1621. Facilitators: Jane Hedrick and Sylvia Dean. 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 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. Call 392-1191 to register. Our Journey of Hope: Coping with Anxiety Thursday, September 21 from 7:15-8:45 pm in Rm 2818. Dr. Gerald Ellison of the Cancer Treatment Center of America will be presenting a seminar on anxiety, how it can hinder one’s work, damage one’s physical health, or interfere with how one relates to others. He will also explain in depth what signs to look for to know if a referral for professional help is indicated. Sponsored by Stephen Ministry. No charge. No childcare available. No registration necessary. Left to Wonder: Families and Friends of Suicide Sunday, September 24 from 3:00-5:00 pm in the Parlor. Come and learn how others have survived the loss of a loved one through suicide. Did you feel guilty? Were you angry? Have you forgiven your loved one? Yes, we as Christians have these thoughts and feelings! There will be a time to share your story, your perceptions of suicide, and what helped you most to cope with the devastating

loss of your loved one to suicide. Facilitated by Connie Conrad, a survivor of suicide and member of Asbury. No cost and no registration is necessary. Shattered Dreams: God’s Unexpected Pathway to Joy Thursdays, September 28 - November 16 from 6:30-8:30 pm in Rm 2500. The cost is $12 and childcare is available. We will be studying Larry Crabb’s book, which will help us understand how the Holy Spirit uses the pain of shattered dreams to help discover our deep desire for God, to help us begin dreaming the highest dream. Larry Crabb wraps his insights around the bold story of Naomi in the Bible’s book of Ruth. Call 392-1191 to register. Listening Clinic: A Light-Hearted Approach to Listening Monday, October 16 from 7:00-9:00 pm in the Parlor. There is no better way to show you care than to listen. Good listeners seek to understand others in order to convey their care. No child care is available. No cost. Call 392-1191 to register. Alzheimer’s Support Group Third Thursday, from 1:30-3:00 pm in Room 2821. Christian hope, support and education for friends and family of those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia. Cancer Support Group Second Sunday of each month, 4:00-6:00 pm, Parlor - For those living with cancer and their family and friends. Bipolar/Depression Support Group Second and fourth Thursdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 2821 - For persons living with bipolar disorder or depression. Divorce Recovery Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 2319 - For those suf fering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma. Divorce Rebuilding Thursdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 2319 - For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren First and third Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 pm, Rm 1508. Family to Family Usually meets the fourth Tuesday of the month, 1:30-3:30 pm, Parlor. For family members or caregivers of people affected by a mental illness. Prison Fellowship Support Meets third Tuesday of each month, 7:00-8:30 pm in the Parlor. For family and friends of people who are incarcerated. Asbury Bear Bags Asbury Bears are not just for little kids anymore! Asbury Bear Bags with coloring books have comforted young children for many years, but now you may give a Bear Bag with a scripture-based journal included instead! Great for teens and adults. Anyone may deliver an Asbury Bear to someone who CALENDAR

is grieving. For more information, contact Beth at 392-1116.

children Registration forms for all children’s activities are available in the preschool and elementary lobbies. Fall Childcare Core Hours : Sept 5 - May 31 Parents who are involved in AU classes during these core hours will have childcare provided with no reservations needed: Sun 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Mon & Tue 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Tue, Wed, & Thur 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Third Grade Bible Presentation Sunday, September 10 in all worship services. Children who are in the third grade will receive a Bible from Asbury. This annual event is a great stepping stone as Asbury gives children their own copy of the Word of God. A significant event you won’t want to miss. Bible Explorers For third graders and their parents. Sundays, September 10, 17 and 24 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm in the H2O Room. Childcare is available for infants to 6th graders. Cost: $2.00 donation requested per person on September 10, which includes dinner. Hey kids, wanna become a Certified Bible Explorer? Parents, want to spend some time in the Word with your child? We will discuss how it is written; discover how it is organized; and see how to use it. Children’s Choirs Children’s Choirs resume rehearsals starting Wednesday, September 13 at 6:00 pm, for children three years through 6th grade. No pre-registration required. For more infomation, call Marti at 392-1147. Wednesday Night Live Live from Asbury...it’s Wednesday Night Live! WNL is a worship service - kid style - for four year-olds through 4th graders. Worship, singing, character building, Bible verses and possibly a surprise visit from the Church Lady. Make this a fun night for all as we strive to help the kids live productive and fulfilled lives as followers of Jesus Christ. Wednesdays, September 13 through November 15 from 7:00-8:00 pm, following children’s choirs. Rock U Rock U is designed to give early adolescents a fun, informal evening and encourage relational, biblical and Christian growth. It includes small group Bible study, fellowship and ministry projects. Wednesdays, September 13 - November 15 from 7:00-8:00 pm in the 5.6 room. Volunteer Enrichment Training This is an opportunity for the adults to grow and learn. Setting Boundaries with Kids will be presented by Karen Wuellner. This is one of the enrichment courses offered for the adults this fall. Tuesday, September 19 from 7:0029

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8:30 pm in the H2 O room. Childcare is available. (A second training is scheduled in November. Watch for details.) Toddler Time Saturday, September 23 from 10:00 am - 11:30 am in the elementary gathering and KRS room. Cost: $3 per child. A special time set aside for parents or grandparents and their 2 or 3 yearold to share in music, a short story time, crafts, games, and activities. A great time of fellowship with your child. Please register early as it helps with our planning and purchasing. KRS Krazy Banana Kickoff September 29 from 7:00 - 9:00 pm in the elementary area and KRS room. Cost: $10. The first and second graders have gone bananas! Games, crafts, skits, and a short video will keep the little monkeys busy for the evening. Our lesson will be on how we can bear good fruit for God. Don’t monkey around! Sign up today. Registration forms available in the preschool and elementary areas. 5.6 Girls’ Nite Out Friday, October 6 from 4:00-10:00 pm in the 5.6 Rm. This is a girls only night of fun, crafts, food, games, teamwork and dinner and a movie only a girl would love! Bring your friends and your appetite, but remember NO GIRLS ALLOWED! Cost: $15. Registration deadline is October 1. Forms available in the preschool and elementary gathering areas. 5.6 Boys’ Nite Out Friday, October 27, 2006 from 4:00 - 10:00 pm in the 5.6 room. Boys Nite Out is a Boys only night of fun, gross stuff, food, games, teamwork and dinner and a movie only a guy would love! Bring your friends and your appetite, but remember NO GIRLSALLOWED. Cost: $15. Registration deadline: October 22. Forms available in the preschool and elementary gathering areas. Fall Carnival Tuesday, October 31 from 5:30-8:30 pm. Walk through the Bible with your child as they trick or treat throughout the church and church grounds. There will be camel rides, games, inflatables, chariot races, live Bible characters and fun, fun fun!

discipleship Spiritual Gift Connections Sessions are held the second Thursday of each month in Room 1502 from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. Focus on volunteer opportunities at Asbury that use your Spiritual Gift s and personality traits. You are requested to complete the Spiritual Gifts Inventory prior to attending this class. Call the registration hotline at 392-1191 to register for one of the Thursday sessions.

evangelism Alpha and Alpha Sprouts at Asbury! We have been doing the adult Alpha program for over five years at Asbury and now families will be able to share in the experience together. Alpha and Alpha Sprouts for kids will run concurrently every Tuesday night, September 12 - November 21 from 6:30-8:45 pm. (No meeting October 31.) Preview dinner is September 5th at 6:30 pm.

marriage & family Milestone Wedding Anniversaries E-mail your November or December Milestone Anniversary (5, 10, 15, 20, etc.) to patticooper@cox.net or call 392-1146. Heartache Prevention 101 Thursdays, September 14 - October 19 from 6:30-8:00 pm in Rm 1507. Dating to get to know one another is important! Following God’s design for love and relationships instead of Hollywood’s model can prevent much heartache and lead to a deep, fulfilling relationship. Material will be loosly based on Love, Sex, and Lasting Relationships by Chip Ingram (discussion and video). For dating couples - come together or alone. Childcare is available. There is no cost for this course. Facilitators: Rachael Hatley (intern)and Jack & Brenda Pauling.

membership Asbury Exploration Come to a lunch/class to learn more about becoming a member of Asbury. Sunday, September 10, from 12:15-2:15 pm. Call 3921191 to register. Childcare available.

men Men’s Prayer Breakfast Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 am in the CLC. Join the Men’s Ministry for a delicious breakfast, meaningful worship and lifechanging prayer! Cost: $3/person September 6 Don Herrold, speaker September 13 Guest speaker September 20 Mark Hoffman, speaker September 27 Bill Johnson, speaker Car Care for Widows and Single Moms Saturday, September 23 and October 21 from 9:00 am - noon. This bi-monthly service is provided for Asbury’s widows and single moms through our Men’s Ministry. While the ladies wait in the comfort of the Student Ministry café, volunteers check tires, belts, fluids, filters and batteries. They also vacuum and wash the vehicles, and then update the

owners on what’s running smoothly and what needs professional attention. This free service gives our men an opportunity to put their faith into action through loving and serving those in need. No reservations required; just come! Please try to arrive by 11:30 am Home Improvement Work Day Saturday, November 18. Meet at 8:00 am for planning...then off to work! 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. (Work requests, due by Wednesday, November 8, are available at the Welcome Desks or in the main office. Questions? Call Debbie at 392-1142.) Men’s Fall Retreat - “Band of Brothers” Mark your calendar for Friday and Saturday, November 3 and 4. Camp Loughridge in West Tulsa. Cost to be determined. Deadline for registration is October 20. Forms are available at the South Welcome Desk or in the main office.

missions/outreach Global Outreach Dinner Wednesday, September 6 at 6:00 pm in the CLC. Come hear what exciting things are happening in Global Outreach missions. Cost: $5 for dinner. Please call your reservations to Missy, 392-1163, by Thursday,August 31. Armchair Traveler - Asbury Style Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30 in the CLC. Come hear and see in-depth information about these countries and about the work Asbury is doing in each. Childcare will be provided. September 13 - Azerbaijan September 20 - Estonia September 27 - Latin America October 4 - Tanzania October 11 - Mission Matters! A & W Volunteer Training Come learn how you may serve Asbury’s adopted school. Training is scheduled for September 20 at Walt Whitman Elementary School. Please mark this on your calendar. Watch the Sunday bulletin for details. Mission Matters A monthly newsletter is available with recent news of mission happenings. If you would like to receive the newsletter, please contact Missy Sistrunk at 392-1163 or msistrunk@asburytulsa.org. Preference is for the e-mail version, but hard copies can be mailed if needed. Global Outreach Prayer Ministry News and prayer requests from our missionaries and ministries are sent each week to our prayer ministry list. If you would

like to join and become a prayer intercessor for those serving around the world, contact Missy at 392-1163. Global Outreach Ministry Teams These teams specialize in certain areas and all are open to anyone having an interest in those areas. They are as follows: Caspian Ministry (work in Azerbaijan), Latin America Ministry (work in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Guatemala),College Missions Ministry, Communications, Estonia Ministry; Kami Tanzania Ministry, International Student Ministry, Missionary Care, and Prayer. If you need further information call the Global Outreach office, 392-1117. Mentor Moms/Young Lives First and second Tuesdays of the month, 7:009:00 pm in the Parlor. This is a support group for teenage moms, sponsored by Young Life.

missions/vim The upcoming Volunteer-In-Mission (VIM) Teams are: Tanzania September 14-25, Construction and water well work - $2,500 Cookson Hills, Oklahoma (open) October 27-29 Monterrey, Mexico (open) October 14-21, Construction and MBS - $950 Rio Bravo, Mexico (open) November 1-5, Medical and Construction $500 Guatemala (open) November 4-11, Medical - $1200 VIM Leader Training, Tulsa Saturday, November 18 - from 8:30 am - 5:00 pm at Faith UMC. The $50 cost is covered by Asbury. If interested, please call Marilene at 392-1164. For further details about Volunteer-In-Mission opportunities, contact Marilene Long, 392-1164 or mlong@asburytulsa.org

music Asbury Singing Ambassadors Come join the senior adult choir! No auditions required. Rehearsals resume Tuesday, September 12 at 1:00 pm in the choir room. For more information, call 392-1148. Children’s Choirs Children’s Choirs resume rehearsals starting Wednesday, September 13 at 6:00 pm, for children three years through 6th grade. No pre-registration required. For more infomation, call Marti at 392-1147. Rodrigo Rodriguez Concert Sunday, September 17 at 6:00 pm in the Sanctuary. Enjoy the classical and Christian music of this world renowned guitarist whose

performances include Saddleback Community Church, Crystal Cathedral and crusades around the world. Chancel Choir Wednesdays, 7:00-9:00 pm, Choir Room Orchestra/Concert Band Wednesdays, 6:00-7:30 pm, Rm 1510 Asbury Power & Light Sundays, 8:15-9:15 am, Rm 1510 Brass Quintet Tuesdays, 7:30-9:00 pm, Rm 1510 String Ensemble Wednesdays, 8:00 pm, Rm 1507 Dixieland Band Thursdays, 2:00-3:00 pm, Rm 1510 Asbury Singing Ambassadors Tuesdays, 1:00 pm, Choir Room Children’s Choirs Wednesdays, 6:00-6:50 pm Celebration Ringers Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 pm, Rm 2506 Resonance Bell Ensemble Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 pm, Rm 2506 New Creation Ringers Wednesdays, 4:45 pm, Rm 2504 Carillon Quartet Wednesdays, 5:00-6:00 pm, Rm 2506 Asbury Ringers Wednesdays, 6:00-6:50 pm, Rm 2506 Perpetual Light Thursdays, 10:00 am-noon, Rm 2506

prayer Altar Prayer If you would like someone to pray with you during Holy Communion or right after the service, please come to the altar rail at the front of the sanctuary. A pastor or member of the Altar Prayer Team will be glad to pray with you for your needs – physical, emotional or spiritual - at the altar or in the Prayer Room. College Moms in Touch Prayer Time Wednesdays, 11:45 am - 12:45 pm, Rm 1506 Mason Chapel Prayer Room Accessible during core hours. You can enter the room from the outside entrance of the southeast side of the Chapel. Prayer Journals Available in Gazebo Asbury Prayer Journals now available in the Gazebo. This valuable tool is filled with scripture and resources designed to enhance your personal prayer time, plus a section for keeping sermon notes.

recovery Celebrate Recovery Mondays: Dinner at 6:00 pm; Worship from 7:00-8:00 pm; Small Groups from 8:00-9:00 pm; Dessert from 9:00-9:30 pm.

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Hiding any hurts, habits or hangups? God never intended for you to live in bondage. Come join this supportive group of people each Monday night at 6:00 pm. Childcare available. Celebrate Recovery Childcare Volunteers needed. Time commitment is one Monday evening per month from 6:45 pm to 9:10 pm. Please call 392-1103 if you can help.

Walk in the Gym with Him Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:30-9:00 am in the gym. Come join a time of power walking with fun and fellowship. Fitness Room Treadmills, stationary bicycles, strength training machines, and some free weights are available for use. This room may be used during other scheduled activities.

recreation Asbury Recreation Center Hours Sundays 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Mondays 8:00 am - 9:30 am 4:30 pm – 7:00 pm Tuesdays 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Wednesdays 8:00 am - 9:30 am Thursday 4:30 pm - 9:00 pm Fridays 8:00 am - 9:30 am The workout room is available during classes scheduled during the above hours. Must be 13 years or above to use equipment and a liability form must be on file. Upward Basketball/Cheer Registration Early registration of Upward Basketball/Cheer. Coaches, Squad Leaders and Referees are needed. Cost: $75 until October 10 and $85 if postmarked between October 11-14. All registrations received after October 14 will be placed on a waiting list. See page 3 for more information. Single Adults Volleyball Tuesdays, 7:00-9:00 pm, Gym (Ages 18 and up) No children, please. Adult Volleyball Sundays, 7:00-9:00 pm, Gym Coed adult volleyball. Must be 18 and above to participate. No children, please. Open Gym Thursday, 7:00 – 9:00 pm, Gym Open to all members of the ARC to shoot some hoops, walk, run or workout. Must have a membership on file. Age 13-18 must have a parent’s signature on file. No one under the age of 13 may use the workout room. No one under the age of 13 is allowed in the gym unless supervised by a responsible adult. Inspirational Fitness Class – Rise Up to Health Mondays and Thursday, 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm. Enjoy a one-hour, total-body workout to incredible inspirational Christian music. Work your heart, mind and spirit and every muscle group in your body. Wear comfortable clothing and tennis shoes, bring water and a towel. Teens to older adults are welcome. Work at your own level. The joy of the Lord will be your strength. First workout is free, $5 for drop-in. Mats and hand weights are provided. Senior Sit and Fit Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9:00-9:30 am, Gym. Come join a time of stretching with fun and fellowship.

31 CALENDAR

seniors Asbury Singing Ambassadors Come join the senior adult choir! No auditions required. Rehearsals resumeTuesday, September 12 at 1:00 pm in the Choir Room. For more information, call 392-1148. Wings of Wonder Butterfly Exhibit Wednesday, September 13. Departure is at 10:00 am and we will return from the zoo at approximately 2:00 pm. All senior adults are invited to come and share in the wonder of God’s creation, through the beauty and grace of His butterflies. Your only expense will be for lunch afterwards at Shiloh’s Restaurant. Call 392-1191 to make reservations, no later than Thursday, September 7. Invite a friend! ‘Tweenagers Thursday, September 28 from 10:30 am - 1:00 pm in the CLC. Come enjoy a great program and a delicious lunch with us, if you’re ‘tween retirement and heaven...and bring a friend. Call Doni at 492-1771 to make your reservations by noon, Monday, September 25. We hope to see you there! Fall Trip to Branson Tuesday, October 31 through Thursday, November 2. (Depart at 8:30 am and return at 6:00 pm).Cost: $345 for triple occupancy; $375 for double occupancy; $435 for single occupancy. Deposit ($50) due by Sunday, October 1. Registration forms are in the church office and at the South Welcome Desk. We will again be staying at the wonderful Branson Towers Hotel, and t aking in all the fun sights and sounds this southern Missouri town has to offer! Our afternoons and evenings will be filled with several of the most popular musical shows in town, including Yakov Smirnoff, the Magnificent Seven, “The Promise,” and theAndy Williams Christmas Show. There will be plenty of time for shopping, sightseeing and eating! There are only 26 spaces left, so pick up a registration form today! Balance is due within a week of our October 31 departure.

singles Solutions Life Improvement Video Series Sunday afternoons through October 22 (with the exception of September 3) from 3:00-4:30 pm in Rm

2820. No cost. No childcare available. All single and young married adults are invited to participate in one of the most exciting relationship studies to come our way in a long time! Best-selling authors Henry Cloud and John Townsend have developed this series which will help you develop healthy relationships, get to the root of your anxieties, and get past painful experiences. Each of the sessions are linked by a major topic area, but are independent studies. Check www.asburytulsa.org for each week’s topic. Come as often as you can and bring a friend or two. ASM Labor Day Picnic Monday, September 4 from 3:00-7:00 pm at Haikey Creek Park, 121st and Garnett. Join us for an afternoon of good food, fun and fellowship. The picnic is potluck, so bring your favorite dish to share. We will start eating around 4:00 pm. Heartache Prevention 101 Thursdays, September 14 - October 19 from 6:30-8:00 pm in Rm 1507. Dating to get to know one another is important! Following God’s design for love and relationships instead of Hollywood’s model can prevent much heartache and lead to a deep, fulfilling relationship. Material will be loosly based on Love, Sex, and Lasting Relationships by Chip Ingram (discussion and video). For dating couples - come together or alone. Childcare is available. There is no cost for this course. Facilitators: Rachael Hatley (intern) and Jack & Brenda Pauling. “Water and the Word” Singles Retreat Friday and Saturday, September 15 and 16 from 5:00 pm Friday through 10:00 pm Saturday at Western Hills Guest Ranch and Sequoyah State Park. Cost: $50. Deadline for registration is September 8, or until the retreat is full. Registration forms are available in the church office and at the South Welcome Desk. Singles Potluck Luncheon Sunday, September 24 from 12:00-2:00 pm in the Parlor. Come, bring your children and enjoy a delicious lunch, courtesy of your fellow singles. Great food, great fellowship, new friends. It just doesn’t get much better than that! Bring a “super-sized” food item - baked or brought! No charge. Singles Meet and Greet Sundays from 8:40-9:10 am or 10:20-10:50 am in the CLC.All singles are invited. Singles Bible Study Mondays, 7:00-9:00 pm, Rm 1900. Come join us as we hear from a variety of speakers on a number of topics. Divorce Recovery Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 2319 - For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma. Divorce Rebuilding Thursdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 2319 - For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce.

students Metro Worship Wednesday, September 6. Come join kids from all over the city in a night to just worship Jesus. We meet from 7:00-8:30 pm. If you need a ride, meet at Asbury at 6:30 pm and we will be back by 9:00 pm. Location to be announced. Watch the Sunday bulletin. 10th, 11th & 12th Breakaway Wednesdays, 6:30-9:00 pm - Breakaway area. Join us every Wednesday (except the first Wednesday of the month) for a time of connection, worship, learning about God, and some nights of just random fun. Don’t miss the food and hangout time afterwards. Come be a part. 10th, 11th & 12th Small Group Start Sunday, September 17. Times to be announced! This is the first official night of 10, 11, 12 Small Groups. You won’t want to miss it! (If you haven’t signed up for a group, it’s not too late. Stop by Student Ministries Area today.) 10th, 11th & 12th Grade Fall Retreat Weekend of September 23 at New Life Ranch. Cost: approx. $70. Check it out! The summer has be en amazing and God has good stuff for the school year, too. It will be time to go deeper and hear the heart of God. If you want a shirt, get your registration in by September 13. 7th, 8th, & 9th Grade Breakaway Sunday mornings, 9:15-10:30 am in the Breakaway Area. This isn’t your normal Sunday school. Come join us for worship, fun and games, interactive talk/lesson, and sometimes free candy and gift cards. 7th, 8th & 9th Grade Fall Retreat September 8-10 at New Life Ranch. Cost: $77; $82 if late! Check it out! The summer has been amazing and God has good stuff for the school year, too! It’s time to go deeper and hear the heart of God. If you want a shirt and to avoid the $5 late fee, get your registration in by 5:00 pm, August 30. 7th Grade Confirmation Parent/Student Meeting Sunday, September 17 from 4:30-5:30 pm in the Student Ministries Area. Don’t miss this MANDATORY 7th Grade Confirmation student and parent meeting that will give you the scoop on the whole year from 4:30-5:30 pm. Then students stay for their first group meeting from 5:30-7:00 pm. (If you haven’t signed up for Confirmation, it’s not too late. Stop by Student Ministries Office today) 7th Grade Confirmation Seventh grade is the year to experience confirmation. Our program is done through small groups. They will meet each Sunday night starting September 17 and ending in April from 5:30-7:00 pm in the Student Ministries area. If you are interested, call Marsha at 3921157.

7th - 12th Grade Small Group Sign Up Sign up now for 8th - 12th grade small groups in the Student Ministries area. Small groups start September 10 for 10th-12th grades and September 17 for 7th-9th grades. They meet every Sunday night until April (except for major holidays). 7th grade confirmation groups will receive a mail-out. If you don’t get one and are interested, contact Student Ministries at 392-1157 for details. Don’t miss out on being a part of a small group. It’s a place to grow in your relationship with Jesus, have some accountability, and just have fun. (It’s never too late to sign up. Just come to the Student Ministries Area.) Questions? Call Marsha at 392-1157. 7th, 8th & 9th Grade Small Group Start Sunday, September 17 from 5:30-7:00 pm. This is the first official night of small groups. You won’t want to miss it! 8th and 9th grade groups meet at Asbury Student MinistriesArea. Confirmation 7th graders will have a mandatory parent/student informational meeting that night from 4:30-5:30 pm, then students will stay for their first groups from 5:30-7:00 pm. Don’t miss it. (If you haven’t signed up for a group, it’s not too late. Stop by Student Ministries Area today.) 7th, 8th & 9th Grade Bible Study Every Wednesday night except the first one of the month, September 13 through December 13 from 6:30-8:00 pm in the Student Ministries Area. Come to the Student Ministry Café, hang out, have fun, and study what God’s Word has for us. It’s going to be awe-inspiring and you won’t want to miss it!

women UMW Luncheon Thursday, September 7 from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm in the CLC.Attention women of Asbury! You are invited to a covered-dish luncheon. Come hear Rev. Cindy Ritter, MS, RN, speak on ministry to families of terminally-ill patients. Rev. Ritter is the Clinical Director of Clare House, an end-of-life care facility that is freeof-charge to its patients. Clare House helps alleviate some of the stress experienced by caregiving families, and gives them a place to gather and just be with their loved one during the journey home. Bring a friend and be a part of the blessing. “Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.” Psalm 23:4. Car Care for Widows and Single Moms September 23 and October 21 from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm. This bimonthly service is provided for Asbury’s widows and single moms, through our Men’s Ministry. While the ladies wait in the comfort of the Student Ministry café, volunteers check tires, belts, fluids,

filters and batteries. They also vacuum and wash the vehicles, and then update the owners on what’s running smoothly and what needs professional attention. No reservations required; just come! Please try to arrive by 11:30 a.m. Value of a W oman Saturday, November 4 from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm in the Chapel and CLC. Cost: $15 per person, includes lunch. Deadline for reservations: Monday, October 30. Find encouragement, fellowship and renewal when you join us at Asbury’ s Fall Women’s Conference. Asbury’s own Gail Knox, Gretchen Valentine and Adesola Akala will examine how women of the Bible were intimately associated with the unfolding purpose of God. They’ll also give new insight into living your life with a genuine devotion to God and an unwavering faith. Enjoy music and teaching, then end the morning with a savory lunch and heartwarming fellowship. Bring a friend and join us at this half-day event. “Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.” Psalm 115:1 Home Improvement Work Day Saturday, November 18. The men meet at 8:00 for planning...then off to work! The Home Improvement ministry serves widows and single moms within the Asbury family. Our Men’s Ministry volunteers make themselves available every other month to help folks out with minor home repairs and/or home improvement projects. (Work requests due by are available at the Welcome Desks or in the main office. Questions? Call Debbie at 3921142.) Women of the Word Wednesday from 10:00-11:00 am in Rm 1502. Rev. Darlene Johnson, teacher. Phone Buddies Ladies, do you want a “cheer me up” with your morning coffee? We have ladies that can fill that need by being your own “phone buddy!” Call 392-1142. Lea or Shirley will return the call and get you set up! Arts and Crafts Mondays, 9:30 am - 2:00 pm, Rm 2820. Women who enjoy crafts are invited to come any Monday morning...come and go any time. Bring lunch to share. Contact Beverly Clarke.

worship Online Worship Did you know that you can watch the 9:15 and 11:00 a.m. Sunday services online as they are occurring? Go to www.asburytulsa.org then click on “Watch Sermons” (by Tom’s picture). If you cannot attend worship, you can log on and share the experience. Or if there is a sermon that you wish someone else had been able to hear, send them to our website where several weeks of sermons are archived.

Welcome to Asbury...

Dana Gray

Jan Morrison

Michael and Sawn Dayan, Matthew and Roy

David and Sandy Savage, Mason, Mackenzie and Monica Jobe

Shane and Christie Hannaford, Alexis and Jewell

...weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re glad youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here Dawn Ann Laughlin

Michael Wales

Sandra Falk

New member photographers: Allen H. Robinson and Roxanne Shelton Whiteis

thank you... Nostalgia Old and New by John C. Westervelt On the way home from the grocery store, I was first beside, and then behind, a bright yellow, 1962 Volkswagen. I recognized the year by the size of the tail lights. I sensed a sweet nostalgia. I bought a new Volkswagen in 1962 for $1600 after going to work for North American Aviation and losing my car pool at Century Electronics. The Apollo program had just begun. With a single-car garage on 23rd street, I parked on the yard beside the driveway. As soon as tire tracks showed in the grass, I gathered used bricks from a dirt and rock dump area down the street and across Sheridan. I dug out the grass to the depth of a brick and laid a drive one brick wide in each track. In the winter, I bundled up because there wasn’t much heat in a VW. In the summer, I turned the wing windows out to blow air across my perspiring body – a different kind of air conditioning. Five years later when my son Paul was a Boy Scout, I would let him shift gears in the Volkswagen as we drove to troop meetings. My brother’s two boys were in the same troop. Having been Eagle scouts as boys, my brother and I helped at scout meetings and camped with the troop once a month for several years. After another five years, with Paul in high school and working after school as the maintenance man for an apartment complex, I sold him the Volkswagen for $200. Some time later, I watched Paul unbolt a fender, knock out some dents, fill the crevices with body putty, and sand the area smooth. He then used matching paint in spray cans to paint the repaired fender before reassembling. On this day, going back into the garage for a second load of groceries, I thought, “My Honda is a much better car than the old Volkswagen.” Then I realized that the sweet nostalgia was not so much about the car as about the times. I was young and robust. My life revolved around family, scouting, and my church. Life moved on. In time, I became a widower, and a few years later reached retirement age. To fill my mornings, I volunteered to help with theAsbury weekday preschool. I began accumulating memories of children and their hugs. So today, I remember the faces of the children that shared a classroom with me for nine months. Each fall for 11 years a new group of children has arrived. The memory of these children is my new nostalgia, and it, too, is sweet.

More of John Westervelt’s writing may be found at www.jwestervelt.com

Our family wishes to express our sincere thanks to our Asbury friends and the Sonrisers Community for the love and prayers shown to us during and since Neely left us on June 18, 2006. Ruthie Lowrie and Family Many thanks to everyone who helped with the July UMW Garage Sale! Also, thank you for all the donations from which we made over $7,300, all going to missions. Members, friends and husbands worked very hard, and the sale was a great success! Jeanne Funk and the UMW Ladies Dear Communities, What a marvelous turnout and display of creativity we had on a recent Sunday. I think you all were “over the top” on what you did for our first Community Emphasis Day All of the Seekers who were looking to find Joy, Friendship, and perhaps a few new Friends in Christ found us all to be Happy Christians Sunday morning! I think we will have some New Beginnings and a Mosaic Tapestry of visitors the next few weeks, as we reap a Harvest of new 20 Somethings, Couples for Christ, and Women of Faith from the Tulsa Vineyard who desire to become better Disciples with basic study of the Bible 101. I was thinking we all needed to be Mariners on The Ark to get through the sea of Christians in Action who were advertising their Community last Sunday, photo submitted but thank goodness we are all a Family Fellowship attempting to show others the Legacy we have as believers, with Jesus as our Cornerstone in our Covenant with Him. Surely all those early Sonrisers who showed up before church saw that we are a Purpose Driven Fellowship, learning to be Homebuilders and Faithbuilders, as well as Wordfinders who regularly pray the prayer of Jabez. In the weeks to come, please reach out to the Christian Explorers who are curious to study the Word in the method of Wesley and who come to enjoy the Chancel Choir as we Praise and Worship. Maybe they will view us as a Storm Shelter built in the Carpenter’s Workshop with great Deaf Perception into the trials that face us. Truly, all of you are undoubtedly a Class Act !!!! THANK YOU FOR ALL THE HARD WORK you all put into Community Emphasis Sunday. In His love, Diane King

we rejoice... with those who have experienced the joy of a new baby in their family: Aidan Khaimraj Singh, son of Mark and Crystal Singh and brother of Briana - July 21, 2006 Hailey Margaret Aeschliman, daughter of Daryl and Nicole Aeschliman and sister of Braden and Rebekah - July 24, 2006 Isabelle Nicole Beerens & Olivia Shay Beerens, twin daughters of Michael and Cindy Beerens, and sisters of Shawn - July 26, 2006 Joshua Dale Brouwer, son of Kevin and Cristin Brouwer and brother of Nikolas - August 5, 2006

we remember... Chris Howlett - Father of Alex and Morgan Howlett - July 18, 2006 Max Wade - July 25, 2006 Ellie Mitchell - Mother of Ronda Norton - July 29, 2006 Ginger Clutter - Wife of Les Clutter, father of Wendy - August 3, 2006 FAMILY ROOM 34

we celebrate... Congratulations to all couples who are celebrating Milestone Anniversaries. Report your Milestone Anniversary to patticooper@cox.net or call 392-1146.

30 Years Logan and Joyce Bolz September 11

40 Years

60 Years

Steve & Jo Moore September 13, 1946

Jean & Laneer Ham September 28, 1946

60 Years

Granvel and Beverly Coker September 1

Duane & Grace Lee September 1, 1946

25 Years Brian and Sussan Crockett August 15 Bobby and Juli Armour September 5

55 Years Jack & Pat Compton September 29, 1951

20 Years Steve and Mary Pat Fennema September 6 James and Dorothy Beaird September 16

50 Years

15 Years Charles and Cheryl Welch September 21

Milton & Patricia VanDerwiele September 1, 1956

50 Years James & Dewanda Humphries September 29, 1956

10 Years Greg and Katie Ruley August 17 Lance and Vanessa Hoose August 31

50 Years John & Barbara Cluts September 30, 1956

35 THE FAMILY ROOM

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