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ne of the first novels I read was as a sophomore at Will Rogers High School. It was Charles Dickens’
Great Expectations. This explains part of why the sermon series beginning October 12 is “Great Expectations.” Rather than being about pre-Victorian England, it is with the New Testament Book of 1st Thessalonians. First Church Thessalonica had issues. Paul wrote them two letters. One theme dealt with their expectations of Jesus’ return. But this is far more than a book about the end times. It is about being grateful people. It deals with some of the challenges and joys of life. It says that words are not enough, and that the gospel needs to help our ambitions be channeled in the right way. This is a book about Hope. Hope in the New Testament is not “I hope it is true,” but is about having absolute confidence that the promises of God are fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Hope is not tentative or wishful longing but is rock solid in its conviction that He is Lord who makes all the difference in this world and in the world to come. It seems too often that our expectations are great, but they are also misplaced. This is why I tell engaged couples I have only one word of pre-marital advice: “Lower your expectations (not your standards!); raise your commitment.” If I expect Dana to do something, and she does it, she gets no reward. She has merely met my expectations. If I continually raise my expectations of her, it becomes increasingly hard for her to meet or exceed them. That means she has failed. I am disappointed or angry with her. However, if I don’t expect her to
do so many things, but I increase my commitment level to help her, then my perspective improves. A stronger commitment makes me work harder and love more. Higher expectations only set me up for disappointment. “Great Expectations” happen all the time in the church. People expect certain things from the Body of Christ. Those with very high levels of expectation are seldom grateful; they are usually grumpy, demanding, and disappointed people. They end conversations with: “if you don’t fix this…then I’m going to leave the church.” The joyful and grateful people are those who live, “for better, for worse; for richer for poorer; in sickness and in health; to love and to cherish, until death us do part.” They do not threaten, withhold, or attack. They do not feel angry because someone has not met their expectations. They give generously of their lives. I think one of the biggest problems in contemporary Christianity is a lack of a “Theology of Suffering.” If my faith can’t work in the Emergency Room, what good is it? Some have “Great Expectations” of God. Rather than having “Great Commitments TO God,” they want God to solve all of their problems and make life easy. “Great Expectations” can totally destroy our walk with God. Bring your Bibles as we study I Thessalonians.
Dr. Tom Harrison
CONTENTS 3 4 7 10 12 14 16
Coming Soon A Little Trip to China Kenneth Culver Virginia Huddleston God’s Cycle of Help Christmas Shop Teil Blackshare
18 20 22 23 32 34
Nancy Staab Brandon Disney Grandpa John Opportunities New Members Family Room
Managing Editor Tara Lynn Thompson Graphic Designer Nicole McMahan Photographer Don Kreutzweiser Guest Contributors Heather Bates • Marcia Culver Charlene Giles • Stephanie Hurd Greg Lynn • Marty McBroom
Asbury Tidings is a monthly publication designed to tell stories of lives being transformed by the power of Jesus Christ. You may read back issues by visiting www.asburytulsa.org
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for g you n o m vere a e of se e lived it p w s w in o irit. ; ow h oly Sp e Lord H h t e f h You kn t o aia. en by s and nd Ach a joy giv rs of u o e ia t h n a t it o h wit e im aced becam rs in M essage u e m v o e Y e li . h e t e b k the omed your sa l to all u welc e o d y o , m g ame a sufferin ou bec y o s And
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greg lynn
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Taking a Little Trip to China
ave you ever thought of going to China to share Jesus by playing baseball?” a friend asked me over the phone one day. He had entertained a prominent Chinese diplomat in Washington D.C. and had even invited him to the National Prayer Breakfast. Surprisingly, he accepted that invitation, and after returning to his country, this diplomat had put my friend, Curt Zastrow, in touch with a charitable organization called the Chinese Youth Development Foundation (CYDF). The CYDF invited Curt to bring a group of athletes, ten to 14 years old, to participate in the Cheering 2008 Project Hope Games held in Shanghai. Curt called a few of his trusted friends to help pick student athletes for this invitation. The CYDF, headed by Mr. Tu Meng, is responsible for China’s poorest children, helping to provide schools in all of the provinces of China. Over 500 million Chinese live on less than $2 a day. The games were to take place May 27-June 2 in Shanghai, with over 1,200 children from Hope schools from each province of China, along with teams from Japan, Indonesia, Italy and the US. We were invited to help
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introduce the sports of basketball and baseball to these rural poor Chinese children. At first, it didn’t seem possible to make the trip happen with short notice. The athletes, coaches and chaperones were responsible for paying their airfare, not to mention passports, visas, and other financial responsibilities. With much prayer, Curt and his friends began putting together athletes, sponsors and final plans for this trip-of-a-lifetime. Adults and students from Michigan, Florida, Alabama, Washington, Indiana and Oklahoma, worked hard preparing for the trip, even gathering sports equipment to use, then donate after the games. After the group from Asbury attended an information meeting with trip details, the news story broke with a large scale earthquake hitting southern China Sichuan Province, with as many as 40,000 feared dead. Over the next few days the death totals climbed to 80,000 with as many as 4.8 million people left homeless. (Those figures continue to climb, as the area was hit with another earthquake just recently.)
Four days before our departure the sad, but expected, news came from CYDF—the games were off due to the disaster. Mr. Tu and many leaders from the foundation headed to earthquake region to help with rescue since there were Hope schools in the area. In an e-mail a week later, the CYDF apologized for any inconvenience, but Mr. Tu had been put in charge of rebuilding schools. He was already responsible for over 300 million children, so what’s a little more responsibility? The CYDF hoped the games might possibly be re-scheduled in October, after the Olympics and after disaster relief and rebuilding were underway. But we received another surprise in July—the games were rescheduled for July 27 -30! Could we all change our summer schedules and possibly book an affordable flight? The corporate sponsors of the Cheering Hope Games really wanted them to take place before the Olympics. They moved the location of the games to the city of Harbin, in northern China. The plans for the US contingent to tour many Chinese museums and tourist attractions remained. With a lot of scrambling and rearranging of schedules, we were back on our way. The families of all six boys from Asbury struggled to change schedules, but they all were able to participate. The 13 and a half hour flight from New York to Beijing was only the beginning of the incredible adventure we were about to encounter.
Our hosts were amazingly hospitable and had every detail mapped out for us. We took advantage of every stop on the busy tour to experience Chinese culture. We traveled to Harbin, the tenth largest city in China with a population of nine million. The games took place at the University of Harbin Stadium and Fieldhouse. Televised highlights of the games went out to over 500 million Chinese viewers, as well as newspaper coverage. The U.S. team was assigned nine college students as interpreters for the games, along with our CYDF leader Wang Yamei. Over the course of three short days our team and Chinese helpers grew close since they were responsible for our every move. Many of our adult leaders were able to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with each of the student interpreters through individual conversations, even though that really is illegal in China. The interpreter’s selfless and gracious attitudes seemed to lend to their openness of hearing about how we lived and thought in the U.S. Our desire to participate in the games was only matched by our desire to share the Gospel through friendship. ASBURY TIDINGS
The games were a big success, especially with the U.S. participating. These “mini-Olympic” games were quite different from any we were familiar with and were quite challenging, since the Chinese had practiced. The baseball and basketball teams played their exhibition games against the Harbin University teams, along with holding clinics for the other athletes participating in the games. We also had a chance to see the variety of cultures and customs from each of the different provinces of China, as they all performed cheers and dances in the opening and closing ceremonies. The food was quite different, to say the least, with smells not always the most inviting. We were given celebrity status as hundreds wanted pictures with us. But the most amazing thing happened as we boarded our team bus to catch a plane from Harbin to Xi’an, which was our next stop…all nine interpreters were lined up outside our bus making it the perfect opportunity to receive hugs, good byes and thanks. Amazingly, the thanks were not just from us, they were thanking us for the chance to serve us. And even though the culture dictates that one doesn’t show much emotion, all nine interpreters, girls and guys, were weeping and waving goodbye. It was an amazing impression to leave on both groups. We found China to be fascinating, incredibly open to us and quite interested in interacting with us, as
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well. The culture and customs are vastly different, but we found an incredible open door for the gospel. On our way to Beijing Airport to leave, I got a chance to speak at length with Yamei, the CYDF representative. When I asked what the CYDF’s biggest needs were, she said the usual…money and people. After a moment of thought, however, she changed her answer and said, ”No, I think what we really need is people with new ideas.” That was exactly why we came! St. Francis of Asissi said, “Preach the gospel at all times and if necessary use words.” Although it is against the law to share your faith in China, we had our opportunities. There is a State sponsored church which has grown a little. However, with the persecution and ending of open religion, the underground “home churches” of China have flourished. There have been estimates of 100 million Christians living in China. Does that sound a little New Testament-like? We wanted to further our “evangelism through friendship” by leaving the Chinese (specifically the CYDF) with a financial gift to help with reconstruction. There have been two earthquakes and many aftershock since we returned. We now have a matching grant of $40,000 in place. Wouldn’t it be great to take advantage of this offer and double it? If interested please contact Greg Lynn at glynn@asburytulsa.org or 918.392.1174.
r toil ers, ou h t o rden r b , ber e a bu b m e o t m t e r no you r in orde Surely u. y a d d an d to yo t o h G ig f n o spel orked the go ; we w d ip e h h s c d a r e pre and ha while w e n o y to an
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Kenneth Culver Challenge of a Lifetime
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he doctor said that Kenneth’s tumor was inoperable. But he wasn’t done yet with
the bad news. He also believed this would break our marriage. Todd and I looked at each other and vowed not to become a statistic. We would face the challenge together. The outlook was bleak, the anesthesiologist made a special trip to the recovery room to pray over our two-year-old son. We would return to Tulsa for 18 months of chemotherapy. Were we really ready for the challenge laid before us? After returning from M.D. Anderson with our son Kenneth, Todd and I scheduled all of the needed appointments to meet with the pediatrician and with the pediatric oncologist. Then we faced the challenge of trying to explain to a two-year-old why strangers kept poking him and what was going on in his life and with his family. We knew our love was the best reassurance for our son, but there were still a lot of scary details for a two-year-old. Before Kenneth’s first chemotherapy treatment, almost two weeks after returning from surgery in Houston, he woke up in the morning and couldn’t move. I heard him crying out from his room, “Mommy, I can’t get my juice.” Thinking that the ASBURY TIDINGS
or plans f , u future. o y a r d o n f a pe have ave ho h plans I t h e h ig t ou m now For I k , that y m r a h or r not f prospe
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cup had fallen out of bed, I went into his room to help and was faced with the terrifying discovery that my son couldn’t move. My son went to bed a normal little boy and woke up like a Raggedy Ann doll, completely limp and unable to move his arms or legs. How could this happen? I called the doctors and then immediately took him to St. Francis Hospital. As the day evolved and more tests were run, there were no more answers. That afternoon, Todd and I took Kenneth down for a live x-ray. It was on the way back from this procedure that our challenge deepened. Kenneth stopped breathing. The technician called a Code Blue and the next thing I remember is walking into the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) to find my son attached to every machine imaginable. He was on a ventilator so he could breath. The lights and noises were overwhelming. What was happening to my child? Where was God in all of this? The challenge grew. Kenneth was now in PICU with machines keeping him alive. We prayed for a miracle. People from our church came and prayed over us. Complete strangers that heard about Kenneth came and prayed over our young child. We were faced with decisions beyond comprehension. Would we take our child off of the ventilator? How does anyone make a decision about someone’s life? The challenge was overwhelming. But God is miraculous and good. He knows every detail of every situation. After two weeks of no response from Kenneth, he moved his head ever so slightly. At first we weren’t even sure of what we witnessed. We had to convince the nurses and doctors of what we had seen. The challenge changed directions at this point. We spent the next five weeks with Kenneth in PICU trying to convince the doctors that we could take care of our son at home. We were faced with challenges
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of learning to operate a ventilator, changing a tracheotomy, learning to use a feeding tube, changing out a Mickey button, keeping an eye on a port and also taking on Home Health moving into our home and starting chemotherapy three days a week for the next 18 months. Keep in mind Todd and I are both Information Technology professionals who knew very little about medical procedures. But the challenge was worth any cost. This challenge was for our son. Life changing events can happen to anyone and they do everyday. How we as individuals handle these events affects our life, our family and the lives of countless others that we never know about. What an amazing testimony to have your life be a testimony for facing the challenge and, no matter the circumstances, keep moving forward knowing God can make good out of any situation. Over the next few years, we continued to experience challenges related to our son. We always went back to our faith and our commitment to each other to get us through any challenge we faced as a family. Whether the challenge was figuring out how to include our son in winter sports, how to participate in Boy Scouts or how to help our son have as normal a life as possible, we always found a way to work through the challenge and find a solution. Today, 12 years later, Kenneth is a ninth grader at Union Intermediate High School. He is a paraplegic, who has use of his right arm and hand but limited use of his left arm. He needs assistance with most everyday tasks that people take for granted yet he is a straight A honor student who has a great sense of humor and an uncanny patience and peace in his life. He recently wrote the following for part of an AP English class assignment. ”My life up to this point has been like a story straight out of the science fictional horror genre. If the early years of my life were read as a book the reader would more than likely experience a large amount of
dramatic irony. The reader would most likely perceive after certain events, such as my battle with cancer at the age of two (what I consider my life’s biggest conflict) that the worst was behind me. They, however, would be wrong. I later would experience things such as toxic shock and almost drowning, all before the age of ten. However, I suppose I have used a bit of hyperbole so far in telling about my early childhood, despite my various medical issues I still had an enjoyable and certainly memorable childhood. The tone I take towards my life is generally a positive one. I have learned through life that you have to keep pushing through no matter what life throws at you. And if you do, in the end you will always be rewarded with good character and life experience. In the end, if I had the chance to change how my life has happened, I wouldn’t because
I am proud of who I am, and I know it is the past traumatic events that have helped me be here.” Is Kenneth’s life easy? No. Do we still face many challenges as a family? Absolutely. We now also need to factor in Kenneth’s brother Nathan, six, and sister Mackenzie, four. But Kenneth’s life, and all the events that our family have been through and continue facing together, have made us stronger, braver, happier and a little more light-hearted to face life one day at a time. We know there is so much more than what you see on the surface. We have the following verse on a plate in our kitchen. This verse has sustained us through the past and will continue to help through any challenge in the future: “For I know the plans I have for you, plans for prosper not for harm, that you might have hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11. ASBURY TIDINGS
ally continu d om o G ank eard fr h h t u o o ls y ea the ich And w od, wh ally is, u G t c f a o it d as wor en, but ed the m iv e f c o e r ord ve. ou s the w ou who belie when y a , e t s o u n a in y bec ed it t work accept a u is o y h , us whic f God, o d r o w
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Virginia Huddleston The Joy of Cooking
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he delicious aroma of fried that makes people happy. I’m blessed to be able to chicken filled the entire building work at something I love doing,” she said. Virginia’s kitchen expertise is completely self-taught. when Tidings met with Virginia Her cooking career began when her niece, Lisa Turley, Huddleston on a Wednesday afternoon. She was giving a kitchen tour to a small group from Muskogee doing research for their church building expansion. Wearing a white apron and comfy shoes, Virginia matter-of-factly explained which equipment was most important and why. The eager students responded with, “Ahs” and nods, and made notes on their paper. After the group left, Virginia shared that as Asbury’s Food Service Team Leader, a typical week includes planning menus, ordering food from distributors, purchasing items from Sam’s, checking receivables for accuracy and quality, cleaning and stocking the kitchen, doing laundry, keeping records and budgets, and preparing staff lunches, Alpha dinners, Wednesday night meals, and Sunday breakfasts. She also serves the monthly Exploration meal, assists the Tweenagers, the UMW, and the Boy Scouts, and of course, provides the occasional dessert, luncheon, or kitchen tour. “What I love about my job is I’m doing something 10 ASBURY TIDINGS
had some dear friends, the McAdows, who were experiencing a difficult pregnancy. Virginia started cooking extra meals for them, which Lisa delivered. Mark McAdow, who was an Asbury staff member at the time, asked if Virginia would consider cooking the staff lunches on Tuesdays. Virginia agreed to “give it a try.” That was nearly nine years ago, and without any restaurant experience or formal training she has learned how to cook expertly in a commercial grade kitchen for hundreds of people at a time. One of Virginia’s proudest moments was when Asbury served as a Red Cross shelter. When she left work at 10 p.m. the first evening, the shelter had received 150 people. When she arrived at 8 a.m. the following day to prepare lunch, the head count was over 400. “As always, God provided,” she said with a smile. Reminiscent of the fish and loaves miracle, Virginia discovered lasagna she had prepared and frozen a few weeks prior––enough lasagna to feed 500.
Virginia admits the week was challenging because she was also displaced from her home, and suffering from bronchitis. To make matters worse, the Red Cross food supply never materialized. As soon as Virginia knew she wasn’t contagious, she pleaded, “Let me do the meals, please!” With God’s help and provision through many generous restaurants, vendors, and volunteers, she was able to feed everyone. “I felt such joy the entire week and so blessed to be at Asbury, to help in my small way to make a difference in easing the burden on so many families who were really in need of shelter, food, and especially a word of kindness and someone to care,” Virginia said. That week Virginia served over 5,000 meals. “Virginia’s work during the ice storm was simply amazing,” said Teil Blackshare, managing director of ministries. 4:45 a.m. on Sunday, and being excited “She was flexible and resourceful. about coming to work. Joy for me is the Whether feeding 50 or 500, she provided smiles on faces when they see hot rolls quality, nutritious meals for the guests. As or fresh cinnamon rolls. That I am able to bring those smiles with so little effort on a matter of fact, her meals were my part is my blessing from God.” so good we heard a couple of the shelter residents confess they weren’t going to leave! What a testimony. Without a doubt, we could not have had a successful shelter without the dedication of Virginia Huddleston.” Victoria Williams said she 2 cans green beans (drained) is someone with a “servant’s 2 tablespoons butter heart.” She described Virginia ½ teaspoon minced garlic as energetic, dependable and 2 tablespoons sugar hard working, and added, when 2 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled Virginia receives compliments on her cooking, she smiles and Melt butter in the microwave ducks her head often responding then add garlic and sugar. with “Aw, it’s nothing,” Victoria Pour mixture over green said, repeating Virginia’s words. beans and top with bacon. “Virginia is a joy to all of us.”
Virginia’s Sweet Green Beans
When asked how she defines joy, Virginia said, “Joy is waking up in the morning, even if it’s
Bake, covered at 350 degrees for one hour.
•Virginia makes over 1,000 hot rolls per week– that’s 52,000 hot rolls per year! An informal survey revealed some Virginia” staff favorites: • Tom Harrison: “Best green beans in the world!” • Todd Craig: “Her salmon is incredible!” • Charlie Ryser: “It’s a toss up between her fabulous hot rolls and delicious fried chicken.” • Dick Read mentioned all of the above but included her chocolate cheesecake as “unbelievable” and her fresh coconut cream pie as the “best dessert ever!”
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nd tress a . is d r u all o faith ers, in f your h o t o e r s b u re, . eca Therefo about you b m in the Lord r g fi aged standin encour e e r r a e u w e yo ution w lly live, since persec a e w we r For no
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God’s Cycle of Help charlene giles, m.a., l.m.f.t., Director of care and Marriage ministries
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t was hard for me to ask for need. We become depressed and are easy prey for the enemy. help.
After all, I was the director of Care Ministries! If it were anyone else, I’d suggest that a Stephen Minister would be a good idea. That was a tough pill to swallow as I sat in my darkened living room. I was still trying to process all that had happened since my husband Rod’s heart attack six weeks earlier. It was hard to concentrate on scripture. Sometimes it was even hard to pray, and I felt disconnected from God. I knew that care givers often neglect their own support, and I’d taught the importance of getting “filled up” in order to be able to continue to give love to others. What was keeping me from requesting a Stephen Minister? We’ve all been there: a crisis hits or a small problem suddenly escalates. We must choose to humbly admit to God and loving Christians that we need their support or we will become isolated in our grief and pain. James 4:10 reads, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” As the diagram on the next page shows, when we choose to pridefully deny our need, we remain outside the circle of care God ordains. Then we are disconnected from the merciful comfort and truth we 12 ASBURY TIDINGS
The center circle of the diagram represents the strong core of God’s “Cycle of Help.” Before, during and after our times of need, we are strengthened when we meet with God and his people. Some ways we at Asbury connect include: Discipleship Communities, Bible studies, Grief Groups, Dynamic Marriage classes, marriage enrichment weekends, Support Groups, small groups, Men’s and Women’s groups and events, and special ministries like Celebrate Recovery and Stephen Ministry. I hope, like me, you have had the experience of having Asbury pastors and friends visit in the hospital, bring meals, give hugs and send encouraging cards and notes. That’s what love looks like. In John 13:34, 35 Jesus says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” As the diagram indicates, a natural response to healing is a desire to express gratitude to God and our Christian friends. Through our relationships with God and others we truly get to know God’s character. Then we love and trust Him and His son even more. About this time, God often plants a seed in the newly tilled soil of our hearts and minds. We develop
a passionate desire to serve others in God’s name. Many Stephen Ministers tell me that the reason they made their extensive commitment to be trained and support others is that God provided someone for them in their time of need. Now they want to give. Even after we step out to serve God using our spiritual gifts, we sometimes rely on our own strength. Then we find out just how wimpy our human love and talents are. John 15:5 reads, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” Of course, as always, God and his people are there for us, helping us become mature disciples so we can offer God’s love, mercy and truth to others. Richard Kurtzweil, a long-time Stephen Minister who recently went to be with the Lord, used to say that his main focus was, “the outward flow of concern.” I believe that is God’s goal for each of us, that we empty ourselves of all pride and accept help in our times of need so that we can be a more effective conduit of God’s love and concern. Yes, I did request the help of a Stephen Minister. For several months I looked forward to my weekly meeting with her. I appreciated her extra support while our family adjusted to Rod’s health condition. I also confessed my fears and concerns directly to the Lord, and Rod and I talked a lot. My Stephen Minister listened intently, asked important questions, and prayed with and for me. Now you know why it is so easy for me to describe the
benefits of having a Stephen Minister! If I had refused to seek and accept help I’d have missed the blessing. 2 Corinthians 1:3 and 4 says it best. “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” That is “God’s Cycle of Help.”
• Check out the Care Ministry and Marriage Ministry pages on the Asbury website for information about some ways you may seek help or volunteer to help others, or e-mail cgiles@asburytulsa.org
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e increas oes e v lo our rs d make y e, just as ou d r o ss L e blamele one els May th y e r b e l v il e s you w d Jesu nd for t r a a o h r L t e r h o t u ho no ts s for eac en your hear d Father whe w o fl r h e an and ov ay he strengt ur God o f o M e . c . for you in the presen ly ones o ly h o h is h d an with all comes
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The Asbury Singles Ministry
Christmas Shop Taking Action
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With the help of 160 volunteers and generous ix someone with a vision, enthusiastic people, add donations from the Asbury community, the Christprayer, planning, and hard mas Shop came to life. On December 1, 2007, 143 work and see what God does! Just ask children experienced the joy of shopping for their Gretchen Valentine whose hard work and determination helped to make the Asbury Singles Ministry Christmas Shop a reality last December. The Christmas Shop is a place where children from low-income homes are able to select and purchase gifts to give to family members for only $5. Scholarships are available for those children who are not financially able to pay. The idea originated from Michele Caine who saw a need to help families struggling to make ends meet, especially during the Christmas season. The Council of Singles was looking for a community outreach project and immediately saw this as a great opportunity. Gretchen and a handful of volunteers spent the next year and a half making it happen. They worked with counselors from Walt Whitman, Grove, and Jenks East Elementary Schools and invited children in grades K-5 from low-income families to participate. Children from Asbury and the Youth at Heart program were also invited. 14 ASBURY TIDINGS
loved ones. When the families arrive, the children are checkedin and then escorted by a mentor, or shepherd, to the CLC, which is transformed into a shopping wonderland. After making their selections, they go to a wrapping station where they choose gift bags and paper, and make cards for each gift. After watching a video, they enjoy cookies and other special treats. During this time, the mentor is able to let the children know how special they are and how much God loves them. Each child is given a bible, a bookmark, a hand-made Christmas stocking decorated with the nativity scene, and other goodies to take home. While the children are busy shopping, the parents or guardians relax in a separate area where they enjoy a meal. Stephen Ministers and other volunteers are there to visit and make them feel at home. Renee Kallenberger was one of the many shepherds who experienced first-hand the excitement
as the children went from table to table looking for that “perfect” gift. She says that one of the things she enjoyed was to see the reactions of the parents when she brought the children back to them. “It didn’t just affect the kids, but the parents as well,” said Renee. Chuck Welch, who also served as a shepherd, said “the children took great joy in getting things for their family. They were happy and proud as they picked out the gift bags and wrote the cards out. It made me realize how many things we take for granted in our lives.” In the Hospitality Café, Nancy Shield served the children snacks and passed out stockings and other goodies for them to take home. “It was wonderful to see the little ones go shopping and find treasures for their loved ones,” said Nancy. “Pastor Tom is always reminding us that we need to be engaged. This is definitely something you can be engaged in and see that you are making a difference in the community. These children come to the church and find hope.” The Christmas Shop has meant a great many things to Gretchen. “This is a chance for the family of God to care for those near and dear to our Father’s heart, those who are truly hurting and in extreme need. We have been given so much, it is imperative that, where we can, we make a tangible difference, even for a
short time. In that way, we can help make the burden a little lighter,” Gretchen said. “We invite them to be guests in our home to share in the goodness of God’s abundant blessing and to show them that the REAL church is a place of peace and refuge in a very difficult world.” Gretchen also said it is amazing to see “the blurring of lines as young and old, single and married people, men and women, all come together to work as the body of Christ.” The Christmas Shop will be held December 6 and is expected to be even bigger and better. Gretchen said children from Lindbergh Elementary School will be included this year and as many as 300 children are expected to participate. Volunteers will be out in the parking lot to greet the buses and escort the families inside the church. Meals will be provided for the bus drivers and the volunteers. A program called “Baby Booties” will be geared to the toddlers. And the most exciting change is the addition of “The Market” which is being sponsored by the Women’s ministry. As the families leave, they will be provided banquet boxes which will have the ingredients to make a complete meal at home. Gretchen says the shop has taught her just how big God is and what He can do when you put your trust in Him.
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to live u how o y d e d urge uct you an e instr k s w a , s e r e w broth g. Now Finally, re livin a u o y re. in fact and mo od, as G e r e o s m a o this r to ple us to d in orde s e J d r the Lo you in
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Teil Blackshare Everlasting Life Ambition marty mcbroom
W
His job is part of that growth. Describing his pohen Teil Blackshare was 27, his goal was to have a mil- sition, Teil said, “I try to get the right people in the right place so that effective ministry can happen.” lion dollars by age 30.
“Now my goal—my ambition—is to do something that is indescribable for the body of Christ,” said Teil, managing director of ministries, with his eyes narrowing in hope and excitement. “I think there’s a chance at Asbury that we have just hit the tip of the iceberg of our potential. If we got everybody going the same direction, we could change Tulsa! I think Venue 68 – our new youth facility—could be a piece of that puzzle.” Venue 68 was launched to bring in a whole new group of people who, otherwise, would not set foot in a church. Many could be hurting young people, attending concerts at the Venue. The hope is they will be entertained, ministered to, and come back to service and join a small group. “Asbury is the only mega-church I’ve found that has a 45 year history and is a five-generation church. We must work on how to keep five generations growing in concert together, and we’ll really have something to share with the body of Christ,” said Teil. 16 ASBURY TIDINGS
Teil came to Asbury from the private sector. He built up his own software company in the ‘90s when the technology business was booming. His company grew quickly. “Over a 15 year period my ambitions have completely changed,” he said. “I was 27, had a company and was making lots of money with a number of employees. I could get up at six in the morning, work all day and get home after the kids were in bed and thought it was okay because ‘I’m building this company—for my family.’ If I had continued on that path, I might have lost them! My ambition was to be successful as the world defines it. Looking back, it was very shallow.” In the technology bust of 2000, Teil’s direction changed. “I lost contracts and had to start laying people off. It was the hardest time of my life, and I made some very poor decisions,” he said. Soon, the neglect spread to his wife, Jennifer, and kids. He had to do something so he closed the
business, accepting a job in Wichita with a large company. The Friday before leaving for Wichita to house hunt, Asbury called. Asbury needed someone to handle the computer work for a new facility they were building. Teil walked into Asbury that afteroon and walked out with an offer for a six-month contract. “I had a good-paying job waiting for me in Wichita, and I had to give my answer on Monday,” Teil said. “Jennifer and I prayed all weekend about what we should do. From the world’s perspective it made no sense to stay in Tulsa, but after praying with my wife, we felt God wanted us at Asbury.” When he told the company in Wichita, they offered more money to convince him to come but Teil said he already had his direction. “I felt very vulnerable, but that was where God was in it. God was in the plan!,” Teil said. Soon, he started developing relationships at Asbury and seeing where he could serve in other capacities as well, to add value. Before long, Asbury had placed him on permanent staff. “We had to make significant lifestyle changes. We were able to stay in our house, but there were many other changes. It’s astonishing what you can cut out when you need to. Looking back, I’m amazed at how much money we wasted. It’s embarrassing,” he said. His additions to the team at Asbury are evident, said Debbie Wallis, adult ministry team leader. “Teil is a big-picture guy. He knows more about what is going on in all the ministries at Asbury than anyone else,” Debbie said. “He has the ability to see what will work better when something needs to be changed. He knows he can’t please everyone with the hard decisions he must sometimes make. His ambition is not for himself but for the Kingdom.” Teil admits he wasn’t always Kingdom minded,
Teil Blackshare and his family.
instead being perceived as arrogant in his youth. “But I’ve been broken. So now every morning I tell God ‘I don’t want to do this job with pride.’ I’ve always had a lot of self-confidence, but now I have no problem admitting when I make a mistake. I’m also okay with taking risks when God seems to be leading toward a big payoff. “Perhaps what we should be looking for when we talk about a Christian’s ambition is contentment and peace from God. His plan for everyone is different. All Christians have a purpose and a calling. You can have a hectic life and still have peace. My spirit is at peace.”
ASBURY TIDINGS 17
ou want y t o n o ed do not ters, w u is o s y d t n a rs a o th Brothe eath, s ne d in p e urage o le o s c n o e h e for se w …There out tho e b p a o h d e e no ninform ho hav w , t to be u s e r like the rds. grieve ese wo h t h it rw anothe
-18 3 1 : 4 s lonian
sa 1 Thes
tara lynn thompson
N
Nancy Staab Hope in the Word
ancy Staab drove her hus- weapon—the Word of God. The Precepts format band to the hospital. This had uses repetition, compare and contrast, key words,
happened before. In fact, his health concerns were nothing all that new. The drive was familiar. And usually, the drive home was familiar too. This time, she knew differently. “God spoke to me. He said, ‘This time I’m taking him home. You’re not,’” she said, remembering that difficult day 11 years ago. Grief usually wears five masks, what many call the “stages.” The first is denial, then anger, bargaining, depression, and finally acceptance. Expect this, experts say. This is normal. Anticipate it. Nancy has a different story, very different. “I didn’t get mad at God. I didn’t go through some of these stages some people go through,” she said. “This is the reason why you need to be in the scripture all the time, for when these things happen. You know your hope is already there. He is our hope.” Nancy, a trainer with Precepts Ministries International, instructs her audience and participants with one all-powerful, all-mighty, all-strengthening 18 ASBURY TIDINGS
chapter themes, and many other tools to get you to the Word, in the Word, and armed with the Word. “My glasses are the Bible and I have to keep them on all day to see so I can make the decisions God wants me to make,” she said. Many times, when confronted with grief or trials, people often run from God first, she explained. Studying and remembering—a key—the scripture is arming yourself for battle, long before you approach the sound of war. “The first time you really understand the scripture, you know God and change happens inside you,” she said. “You can get the answers for yourself and not depend on someone else to get the answers for you.” For more information about Precepts classes or training, contact Nancy Staab at nancystaab@ cs.com
Seven Steps to Precepts Study 1. Begin with prayer
Prayer is often the missing element in Bible study. You are about to learn the most effective method of Bible study there is. Yet apart from the work of the Holy Spirit, that’s all it will be – a method.
2. Ask the “5 W’s and an H” As you study any passage of Scripture, train yourself to constantly ask: Who? What? When? Where? Why? How? These questions are the building blocks of precise observation, which is essential for accurate interpretation.
3. Mark key words and phrases A key word is one that is essential to the text. Often key words and phrases are repeated in order to convey the author’s point or purpose for writing.
4. Look for lists Making lists can be one of the most enlightening things you do as you study.
5. Watch for contrasts and comparisons Contrasts and comparisons use highly descriptive language to make it easier to remember what they’ve learned.
6. Note expressions of time The relationship of events in time often sheds light on the true meaning of the text. Marking them will help you see the sequence of events and lead to accurate interpretations of Scripture.
7. Identify chapter themes The theme of a chapter will center on the main person, event, teaching, or subject of that section of Scripture. Themes are often revealed by reviewing the key words and lists you developed. Try to express the theme as briefly as possible, using words found in the text.
ASBURY TIDINGS 19
ep, re asle a o h w and rs, t night, e othe a k li p e e le b t ,s us be t us no ay, let o sleep le h d , w e n lmet. h e e t h s tho So t g to s a he r n a o lo n F e . io b t d lle ce we f salva contro But sin hope o . d selft e n h h a t ig t n r d n t ale late, a drunk a us be breastp k, get n a but let u r s a d t d love who ge faith an those n o g in , putt ntrolled self-co
:1-13 5 s n a i lon a s s e h 1T
Brandon Disney Always Be Prepared
christy capps
B
randon Disney’s uniform helps temptation to become embittered. Despite all efforts, him be prepared for the un- crime will continue and evil will exist.” Prayerfully, Brandon puts on faith and love as a known. His equipment—a side arm,
two sets of handcuffs, radio, extra ammunition, pepper spray, latex gloves, flashlight, expandable baton, bullet-proof vest—is 25 pounds of preparation. It’s his training as a police officer, however, that has prepared him to be alert and adjust to every situation. “Every shift, every emergency call is its own entity with one common thread…the unknown,” said Brandon. “Calls that originate as a first degree burglary might end up being a teenager trying to sneak back into the house after curfew, and a traffic stop for a broken headlight may turn into a shooting,” The tools and equipment he carries allow him to make those adjustments to the unknown, all in an effort to keep the peace, he said, quoting Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” His biggest challenge is not putting on the uniform, but putting on the whole armor of God. “There is the challenge to retain the humility of being a servant of Christ and not to abuse the authority bestowed on a police officer as a peacemaker,” Brandon said. “Another challenge is to resist the 20 ASBURY TIDINGS
breastplate, the hope of salvation as a helmet, and asks the Father to provide the peace and understanding that only a faith in Christ can deliver. The Police officer’s uniform is not the only uniform Brandon sports. He also wears the Cub Scout Leader’s uniform as the Cub Master for Asbury’s Pack 10. Similar to police work, one goal of the scouting program is to “be prepared”. Scouts are trained to become self-sufficient, contributing members of their community. From tying knots to first aid, to learning how to use tools, scouts are trained to be prepared for the unknown and to develop a mindset that they can face challenges and succeed. “Because Pack 10 is sponsored by the Methodist Men of Asbury, we have the opportunity to develop our program based on our faith in Christ. I hope to instill in the cub scouts a rewarding sense of service,” Brandon said. The cub scouts serve in a variety of ways. They serve as volunteer bus boys for the Boy Scout Spaghetti Luncheon, as child sponsors through the Salvation Army
Every area of Brandon’s life reflects his deliberate preparation, from his relationship with Christ, to his devotion to his wife and children, to his job as a police officer, to his role as Cub master, and his support for his church. “By preparing my heart and mind to be a servant, to do my best to help others in Christ’s name, I have peace from my faith that envelops my life as a whole. I put unnecessary stress on myself to do the best I can, but within that is an assurance that God the Father is in control and will guide and protect me,” Brandon said. “I like the saying, ‘Work as though it all depends on you and pray as though it all depends on God’.”
Angel Tree program, and as extra hands to help plant trees for the Re-Green Green Country program. “By instilling a heart of service for the glory of God, we are preparing our scouts for the kingdom,” Brandon said. This lifestyle of preparedness has been developed in Brandon since he was a child, attending Asbury since age 12. “The youth programs, ‘Breakaway’ and the former ‘MYF’ (Methodist Youth Fellowship), prepared my heart to be a servant. During my high school years, due to our family’s financial situation, I had to choose between doing the fun activities of the youth group like ski trips and church camp, and doing the mission trip each year. I never made church camp or a ski trip because I never missed a mission trip,” Brandon said. “I thank Asbury for preparing in me a heart of service and for drawing my heart closer to God.” Now, he and his wife, Andrea, are preparing their three young boys, Cole, 9, Ethan, 6, and Kellen, 6 months, to become fully devoted followers of Christ. ASBURY TIDINGS 21
Gratitude john westervelt
I
t is mid August, and I just read an email from Tara, managing editor of the Tidings, listing the theme for the upcoming October issue. As I finish reading, I can hear rain on the roof, even though the sky is only
gray. I move to the front porch to sit and ponder. The air cools. Seeing, smelling, and feeling the rain brings to mind a story I wrote nine years ago. I’ll share it with you here. When the mid-summer rain begins after supper at seven, the sun is still shining brightly. I move to the front porch with bread pudding and a cup of water to watch and listen. The thunder rumbles softly in the east and in the west. The sky turns gray, but never dark. The branches of the willow tree across the way swirl, rather than lean, with the wind. I slip into a light jacket because the air has been turned upside down. The grass, trees, plants, and I rejoice, knowing that an Oklahoma summer can be dry. I listen to a staccato tune played by the gutter downspout as the amount of water falling inside waxes and wanes. The wet driveway across the street reflects the front of the house. The whole outdoors looks and smells clean. Off to the east, a streak of lightning rushes from a cloud to the earth, or could it be the other way around? I slowly count to twelve before the noise reaches my ears. Some of the lightning flashes nearly horizontally from cloud to cloud with a softer rumble. It’s now nearly eight. The sky is a lighter gray. The robin must think that the shower is passing, for she has come out of hiding to visit my front lawn. In a moment the robin leaves, as the handle on the faucet above is turned counterclockwise once more. Water in the gutter downspout flows continuously again. If the Author of the rain desires more rejoicing, He’s got it. He must keep His hand on the faucet handle because the downspout is making music once more as the rain from the roof is dribbling rather than flowing. Where the water stands on the sidewalk, circles begin in miniature and grow to intersect a circle originating from the other way. Gravity is the choreographer who continuously changes the patterns that wrinkle, then smooth, the reflected sky and tree. I unzip my jacket as the cool air departs. Everything is still. The reflector is now a mirror. The Rainmaker has shut the faucet. On this August day of 2008, the rain was soon over, and I moved back to my desk. Reviewing the email just received, I saw that the October Tidings theme is from I Thessalonians. In the opening verses, Paul is filled with gratitude to God for the Thessalonians’ faith. Likewise, I was filled with gratitude to God for bringing an August shower to a dry land.
22 ASBURY TIDINGS
asbury
calling 492-1771, selecting option
Friends in Christ Community
opportunities
2, and leaving a message for the
Sundays, 11 am, Rm. 1507
pastor on call.
general information
Engaged Couples
RoadMap
If you are planning to use an
All courses being offered in the Fall
Asbury pastor to officiate and/or
2008 RoadMap session are listed
use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to
on the Asbury website at www.
book ASAP to allow ample time
asburytulsa.org. Look for the new
for Couple-to-Couple (required
Fall brochure.
Breakfast Served from 7:15-9 am in the CLC. Come enjoy fellowship with Asburians along with fresh donuts, bagels, biscuits & gravy, sausage, eggs, fruit, and cereal. $2 for adults & $1 for children 12 & under. Sunday Morning Worship 8 am, Mason Chapel (Traditional Communion) 9:15 am, Sanctuary (Contemporary) 9:15 am, Open House Worship (CLC) (Acoustic Worship, Casual Setting) 11 am, Sanctuary (Traditional w/ sign interpreter) 11 am, Venue 68 (Modern) Sundays for Children & Students 6 Weeks-4 Yrs: 8:00, 9:15 & 11 am K-6th Grades: 9:15 or 11 am 7th-9th Grades: 9:15 & 11 am 10th-12th Grades: 9:15 am only Adult Discipleship Communities 8:00, 9:15, & 11 am & Wednesdays, 6:00 and 6:30 pm and NEW! Thursdays at 6 pm (See Discipleship) Surgery or Hospitalization Scheduled? Be sure to let Asbury know ahead of time by calling Ruth at 392-1146 so your pastors can be in prayer for you. When you enter the hospital, please designate Asbury as your church. The after-hours pastoral emergency line can be reached by
premarital sessions). Six months to one year lead time suggested.
bible study
care and support Visits to Asbury Members
The Gazebo is Open
Asbury has a unique group of vol-
CDs of Tom’s “Message of the Day”
unteers (Asbury Connection) who
are available immediately following
regularly visit people who are either
the worship service for $3. Prayer
homebound or in nursing homes. If
Journals are also available for $5
you are interested in being visited,
each.
call Ruth at 392-1146, or contact the coordinator, Abby Sluice at
Recycling
ozyanks2000@yahoo.com
Recycle unwanted paper products. Three bins are available, located in
Prayer Card Sending Team
the south and east parking lots.
Usually meets first and third Mondays at 10 am in Rm. 1621 to
Asbury Family News is available at
send cards with God’s encouraging
the Welcome Centers. It includes
words and our prayers to those
hospital lists, births, deaths,
who are ill or going through hard
marriages, baptisms and military
times. Cards and care packages are
listings.
also sent to Asbury-related military personnel. Contact Gwen Mohler
Doors of Asbury posters are at the
at grmohler@aol.com for more
Welcome Centers…FREE! Suitable
information, or call 392-1146.
for framing. Asperger Support Group New Additions to the Library
First Thursday from 7-9 pm in Rm.
The Asbury Library is a wonderful
1506. For mothers of children with
resource. Thank you to all who
Asperger Syndrome. Childcare
continue to contribute books to our
available.
Library.
access
Alzheimer’s Support Group Third Thursday, from 1:30-3 pm in
Hands of Love Sign Choir
Rm. 1621. Christian hope, support
Sundays, 6-7 pm, Rm. 2821
and education for friends and family of those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia. ASBURY TIDINGS 23
Cancer Support Group
(complete name and address) to
Wednesday Night Live
Second Sunday of each month,
Gwen Mohler at grmohler@aol.com
Our 4 year olds – 5th graders will
4-6 pm, Parlor. For those living with
or call 392-1146.
want to join us on Wednesday
cancer and their family and friends.
Nights for worship in the Chapel Asbury Bear Bags
— Kid Style. We will combine mu-
Divorce Recovery
Asbury Bear Bags with coloring
sic, high energy and a Bible lesson
Tuesdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.
books have comforted young
in a setting that encourages kids
For those suffering from the early,
children for many years, but now
to learn about worship. For more
highly emotional stages of divorce
you may give a Bear Bag with a
information contact Amber Cox at
and separation trauma. Childcare
scripture-based journal included
392-1171 or at acox@asburytulsa.
available.
instead! Great for teens and adults.
org.
Anyone may deliver an Asbury Bear Divorce Rebuilding
to someone who is grieving. For
Fall Festival
Thursdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.
more information, contact Beth at
Come treat your family to a new
For those ready to rebuild their
392-1116.
twist on the traditional fall festival.
lives after separation or divorce. Childcare available.
children
Travel with your friends back to biblical times where you can ride in a
Registration forms for all children’s
chariot, slay Goliath, be a guest at a
Eating Disorder Recovery
activities are available in the
wedding as well as enjoy traditional
For individuals seeking support in
preschool and elementary lobbies.
carnival games and more. Please
the recovery process. First and third
bring a bag of wrapped candy for
Wednesdays at 12 pm in Room
Core Childcare Hours
admission. Lots of volunteers are
1621. Bring a sack lunch. Contact
Parents who are involved in
needed. Call Jennifer Barnes at
Marcy McMurry at marcymcmurry@
RoadMap classes during these core
392-4582 or jbarnes@asburytulsa.
sbcglobal.net
hours will have childcare provided
org for more information or to
for children 6 weeks-12 yrs of age
volunteer.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren First and third Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 pm, Rm 1506. Mental Health Support for Families For family members or caregivers of people affected by a mental illness. 4th Thursdays, 1:30-3 pm in the Parlor. Call Ruth at 392-1146. Military Connection Please join us in praying for our troops in harm’s way and their families. Periodic care packages and monthly encouragement cards with God’s Word are sent to Asbury-related military personnel. The Prayer Ministry also covers them in prayer. Please send contact information 24 ASBURY TIDINGS
with no reservations needed: Sun: 8 am-12 pm
Upward Basketball & Cheer
Mon & Tue: 9 am-12 pm
Everybody plays, everybody has
Tue, Wed, & Thur: 6-9 pm
fun, and everything revolves around developing a relationship
Murdock Villa
with God through Jesus Christ, and
A mission opportunity for our 5th
living in a way that glorifies God.
& 6th grade students. Usually the
The real stars in this world are not
second Sunday of the month from
the ones who run the fastest or
12:30-3:30 pm. Cost is $5 for CiCi’s
jump the highest; the real stars are
Pizza. We’ll eat then visit Murdock
the ones who honor God and honor
Villa where we will play Bingo and
others by the way they practice and
do crafts with special needs adults.
play the game. Registration dead-
It is an amazing time to witness in
line is October 12. This program
our local community. Limited to 10
promotes character and self-esteem
kids each month. For further infor-
in every child. For more information
mation contact Jami at 392-1166.
or if you have questions, contact Kim Renkema, Programming Team Leader, 392-1159 or at krenkema@ asburytulsa.org
discipleship Discipleship Communities If you have not yet found an Adult Discipleship Community check out “Get Involved” on our website, www.asburytulsa.org or pick up a brochure at one of our Welcome
Asbury pastor to officiate and/or
of the cafe, volunteers check tires,
use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to
belts, fluids, filters and batteries.
book ASAP to allow ample time
They also vacuum and wash the
for Couple-to-Couple (required
vehicles, then update owners on
premarital sessions). Six months to
what’s running smoothly and what
one year lead time is suggested.
needs professional attention. This free service gives our men the
Centers.
Milestone Wedding Anniversaries
opportunity to put their faith into
Email your December or January
action through loving and serving
Alpha
Milestone Anniversary (5,10,15,20,
those in need. To volunteer, contact
etc.) to Carolyn Schutte at
Debbie in the Adult Ministries
brucetschutte@valornet.com or call
Office, 392-1177.
Got questions? Get answers! An opportunity to explore the meaning of life every Tuesday evening 6:30 pm-8:45 pm in the Community Life
Ruth at 392-1146. Home Improvement Ministry
Center September 16-November 18.
membership
Alpha Preview/Luau Dinner Party
Asbury Exploration
pm. The Men’s Ministry offers this
on September 9. Come check it out!
Come to a lunch/class to learn
service for widows, widowers and
Alpha Sprouts for kids age 4-12.
more about becoming a member of
single moms within the Asbury
Please call 392-1191 register for
Asbury. Sunday, October 5, 12:15-2
family. Volunteers make themselves
Alpha or Alpha Sprouts. For more
pm in CLC. Lunch provided and
available every other month to help
information, call Dawn Snyder at
childcare is available for children
folks out with minor home repairs
557-6843 or go to www.asburytulsa.
six weeks through 6th grade. Call
or minor home improvement
org, search Alpha.
392-1191 to register.
projects. To volunteer, contact Deb-
employment
men
PT Nursery Staff Positions Available
Men’s Prayer Breakfast Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 am in the
Part-time position will work 10-
CLC. Attention men of Asbury.
15 hours weekly in the Asbury
Make plans to join us for a great
Nursery. The schedule will include
time of meaningful worship, life-
Sunday morning from 8:30 am-
changing prayer and an awesome
12:30 pm with a few remaining
big breakfast, all for just $3 per
hours during the childcare weekday
person. First-time guests are free.
bie in the Adult Ministries Office, 392-1177.
and weeknight core hours. Suc-
October 1
Mark Springer
cessful applicant should have a
October 8
Dub Ambrose
love for children, willingness to
Ocober 15
Pec Clark
portray Christian beliefs and values
October 22
Don Herrold
to children and families. Resumés
October 29
Bill Johnson
should be sent to Vicki Ihrig, Asbury UMC, 6767 S. Mingo Rd., Tulsa, OK,
Car Care Saturdays
74133 or call her at 918-392-1160.
November 15, 9 am-12 pm, north-
marriage & family
Saturday, October 18, 8:30 am-1
east parking lot. This every-othermonth workday is provided for
Attention Engaged Couples
Asbury’s widows and single moms.
If you are planning to use an
While the ladies wait in the comfort
Men’s Fraternity: The Quest for Authentic Manhood Tuesdays, September 9-December 23, 6:15-7:30 pm, Rm. 1300, $10 fee. Come learn how to live a life of authentic manhood as modeled by Jesus Christ and directed by the Word of God. Designed to help men come together, these time-tested resources equip men to pursue noble manhood as a life-long priority. Facilitated by Rev. Dub Ambrose and Brent Colgan. Men’s Fraternity: The Great Adventure Wednesdays, September 10–November 19, 6-8 pm. Rm. 1300, $10 fee. A follow-up course to “The Quest for Manhood,” this 20-week ASBURY TIDINGS 25
study explores a man’s world beyond the every day. It will help you find your “unique fit” in life—one that is realistic, thrilling and deeply satisfying. Through this series you will develop a personal mission that fits the “real” you, discover the best practices of successful men, and find out how to surround yourself with teammates to help achieve those goals. You’ll also learn to deal with unfinished business and how to leave a legacy of which you can be proud. Facilitated by Rev. Dub Ambrose and Greg Ruley. Men’s Basketball Thursdays, 7:45–10 pm and Fridays, 11 am–1:30 pm, Gym. Men! Make plans to join other Asbury guys and their friends each week as we get together for a little “round ball” and lots of fun! We have Thursday evenings from 7:45-10 pm and Friday lunchtimes from 11 am–1:30 pm reserved, just for us. Come show us what you’ve got (or what you want to get!), and we’ll have a great time of exercise and fellowship. Invite your friends, and we’ll see you on the court! Annual Men’s Fall Golf Tournament Friday, October 10, 11:30 am, Clary Fields. Attention men! Fall is just around the corner, and you know what that means! It’s time for our annual Asbury Men’s Fall Golf Tourney, and you definitely want to be a part of the fun this year! The tournament will be held on Friday, October 10 at Clary Fields, in Sapulpa. Lunch will be served at 11:30 am, and the shot-gun tee time begins at 1 pm. The cost is $65 per person, which includes the driving range, green fee, cart, lunch, 26 ASBURY TIDINGS
awards and prizes! The format is a four-man scramble, and you may form your own team or be placed on a team. The deadline for paid registrations is Friday, October 3, 2008. Forms may be picked up in the church office or at any welcome desk. Call your family, call your friends…and join us for a great afternoon of fellowship, friends and fun!
Eyeglass Donations
Boy Scout/Veteran’s Celebration Pancake Breakfast Saturday, November 8, 7–11 am, CLC. The Asbury Scout Leadership Foundation invites you to “A Salute to our Veterans,” to be held on Saturday, November 8, from 7-11 am in the CLC! It is our privilege to salute those men and women who have served their country as members of the armed services, and those today who proudly wear the uniform of the Active, Reserve and National Guard forces. Please join the Asbury Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Venture Crew members for an all-you-can-eat Pancake Breakfast, while honoring our veterans. Advance tickets will be on sale at the church, on Sunday, October 26 & Sunday, November 2, or you may purchase them at the door. All proceeds benefit the Boy Scouting programs of Asbury
symbol together. Turn these in for
missions/vim
Mission Books
Volunteers-In-Mission Opportunities
Pick up the 2008 mission books at
• Oct. 4-13, Central Asia: Construc-
the Welcome Centers or come by
tion & Teaching, $2400.
the Missions office. Make sure to
• Oct. 11-18, Monterrey, Mexico:
pick up two books...one for Global
MBS & Construction, $950.
Outreach and one for Oklahoma
• Oct. 31-Nov. 2, Cookson Hills, OK:
Outreach (previously called Re-
Light Construction, $50.
gional Outreach).
• Nov. 5-9, Monterrey, Mexico:
missions/outreach
Are you wondering what to do with those old eyeglasses? Donate them to missions! You may drop your glasses off in the Global Outreach office. Campbell’s Soup Label Save Campbell’s soup labels for missions. Please cut the UPC symbol and the Labels for Education missions! Questions: Contact Missy Sistrunk at 392-1163. Mission Matters A monthly newsletter is available with recent news of mission happenings. Preference is for the email version, but hard copies can be mailed if needed. If you would like to receive the newsletter, please contact Missy Sistrunk at 392-1163 or msistrunk@asburytulsa.org 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.
Medical, $900. • Nov. 12-16, Rio Bravo, Mexico:
Men’s Construction, $600.
or immediately following a worship
heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14
• VIM Leader Training:
service, please come to the altar
(KJV).
September 13, Enid
rail. A pastor or member of the Al-
October 25, Ada
tar Prayer Team will be glad to pray
recovery
All costs are approximate. For more
with you for your needs—physical,
Celebrate Recovery
about these exciting mission oppor-
emotional or spiritual—at the altar
Come join this supportive group
tunities, contact Marilene at
or in the Prayer Room.
of people each Monday night at 6
mlong@asburytulsa.org
pm. Dinner at 6 pm; Worship from Prayer Room Reservations
7-8 pm; Small Groups from 8-9 pm;
The leadership of Asbury’s prayer
Dessert from 9-9:30 pm. Hiding
ministry would like to remind you
any hurts, habits or hang-ups? God
Chancel Choir
that the main facility Prayer Room
never intended for you to live in
Wednesdays, 7 pm, Choir Room
is open not only to individuals
bondage.
or 918-392-1164
music
New Covenant Orchestra Wednesdays, 6-7:30 pm, Rm. 1510 Asbury Singing Ambassadors Tuesdays, 1 pm, Choir Room Children’s Choirs Wednesdays, 6 pm, various
desiring to pray in a quiet, meditative atmosphere, but also to prayer groups within communities and
senior adults Visits to Asbury Members
ministries. Just give Debbie in the
Asbury has a unique group of vol-
Adult Ministries office a call at 392-
unteers (Asbury Connection) who
1177 to reserve the Prayer Room for
regularly visit people who are either
your group on a weekly or monthly
homebound or in nursing homes. If
basis.
you are interested in being visited, call Ruth at 392-1146, or contact
Asbury Power & Light
Prayer Room Days & Times
the coordinator, Abby Sluice at
Sundays, 8:15-9:15 am, Rm. 1510
Our prayer rooms are accessible to
ozyanks2000@yahoo.com
you at these times: Celebration Ringers
Mason Chapel (during construc-
Senior Sit and Fit Stretching Class
Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 pm, Rm. 2506
tion): Sundays, 7 am-12:30 pm
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
through the interior door. New Creation Ringers
from 9-9:30 am in the Gym. All
Main Facility: Mon.-Fri., 7 am-9 pm;
Wednesdays, 4:45 pm, Rm 2504
senior adults are invited to join us
Saturday, 10 am-3 pm;
for a time of stretching, coupled
Sunday, 12:30 pm-9 pm.
with lots of fun and fellowship. No
Youth Orchestra Wednesdays, 5:30 pm Asbury Ringers
high impact workout here. We take Election Day Prayer Vigil
it nice and easy. Come give it a try.
Tuesday, November 4, 7 am–7 pm, Mason Chapel Prayer Room. Come
Senior Walk in the Gym with Him
devote yourself to prayer for our
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
2008 Presidential Election, at any
from 8:30-9 am in the gym. All
Thursdays, 10 am-noon, Rm. 2506
time between 7 am and 7 pm, in the
senior adults are invited to join us
Mason Chapel Prayer Room. You
for power walking, coupled with
Saints of Swing Dixieland Band
may stay for as little or as long as
lots of fun and fellowship. Come
Thursdays, 2-3 pm, Rm 1510
you like. “If my people, which are
give it a try.
called by my name, shall humble
Wednesdays, 6-6:50 pm, Rm. 2506 Perpetual Light
prayer
themselves, and pray, and seek my
AARP Driver Safety Program
Altar Prayer
face, and turn from their wicked
Friday, October 24, 9 am-4:30 pm,
If you would like someone to pray
ways; then I will hear from Heaven,
Rm. 2820. Cost $10. The AARP
with you during Holy Communion
and will forgive their sin, and will
Driver Safety Program is the ASBURY TIDINGS 27
nation’s first and largest refresher
at Taliano’s Italian Restaurant, and
to give an accurate count to the
course for drivers age 50 and older
tour the Immaculate Conception
cooks. Should you choose, you may
that has helped millions of drivers
Church, with stained glass windows
make a donation for the meal when
remain safe on today’s roads. It is
from Germany! We’ll also tour
you check in that morning. Come
designed to help you:
Miss Laura’s Visitor’s Center, a
join us for fun and fellowship!
1. Tune up your driving skills and
turn-of-the-century establishment,
update your knowledge of the rules
and enjoy sarsaparilla and peanuts.
Christmas Trip to Branson
of the road.
The day will end with a ride on the
Thursday, December 4 & Saturday,
2. Learn about normal age-related
trolley, to tour Ft. Smith’s 22-block
December 6. Climb aboard a luxuri-
physical changes, and how to
Historic District and other attrac-
ous motor coach for an exciting
adjust your driving to allow for
tions.
time of fun and fellowship! Marge
these changes.
Registration forms are available
Creagor, our experience tour co-
3. Reduce your traffic violations,
in the main office and at the south
ordinator, will see that your every
crashes, and chances for injuries.
welcome desk, and the cost will
need is met. Enjoy three shows, a
4. Drive more safely.
be $50 per person. Forms must
Christmas Light Festival, unique
5. Get an insurance discount. Auto
be accompanied with payment to
shopping opportunities and fantas-
insurance companies in most states
be added to the registration list,
tic food. And that’s just the tip of
provide a multiyear discount to
and there is a limit of 50 partici-
the iceberg! For more information,
AARP graduates!
pants…first come, first served! Just
look for the bright red flyers now
To sign up, call Asbury’s Registra-
place your form, with payment, in
available in the main office or at the
tion Hotline at 392-1191. At least
the registration slot at the south
south welcome desk, and contact
12 participants are required for
welcome desk and you’ll be good to
Marge to make payments!
the class to take place, so tell your
go! Tell your friends! This is going
Where you’ll go and what you’ll
friends and neighbors, and sign up
to be FUN!
see: Mountain Man Fruit & Nut
today!
Company, The Osmonds & BroadOctober Tweenagers Program &
way’s Spirit of Christmas Show,
Senior Adult Day Trip to Ft Smith
Luncheon
Branson Christmas Lights Festival,
Friday, October 10, 8 am–5:30 pm
Thursday, October 23, 10:30 am–1
Brett Family Christmas Show, The
Asbury Senior Adults…don’t miss
pm, CLC. Everyone aged 55 and
Engler Block shopping & crafts,
this! We’re going to load up a
up is welcome to join us for our
Historic Downtown Branson, The
charter bus and take a nice, relaxing
monthly Tweenagers meeting &
Grand Village of Shops, Branson
day trip to Ft. Smith, Arkansas. The
luncheon, taking place on Thursday,
Mill Craft Village, Tony Orlando &
foliage should be extraordinary,
October 23, from 10:30 am-1 pm,
Lennon Sisters Show, Red Hot &
and you’d be surprised at all the
in the CLC. Our program will be
Blue Rockin’ 50’s Show. Thursday,
fun things there are to do! Ft. Smith
presented by LeAnne Taylor, on
December 4 – Saturday, December
is nestled in the heart of the Ozark
Breast Cancer Awareness. Music
6, 2008. Cost: $339, Triple occupan-
Mountains, and this famous Old
will be presented by the Dixieland
cy; $359, Double occupancy, $429;
West Town is an exciting travel
Band, under the direction of Bill
Single occupancy. $50 deposit due
destination, uniquely combining the
Metsker! You don’t want to miss
at the time of registration balance
history of the wild and wooly “Old
this program, and remember to
due Thursday, October 23.
West” with the gentle charm of the
invite your friends!
antebellum “Old South.”
Call the main office at 492-1771 to
singles
We’ll visit the original 1817 fort on
make your reservations BY NOON,
Singles Meet and Greet
the Arkansas River and the restored
Monday, October 20. If, during that
Sunday mornings from 10:20-10:50
courtroom of the famed “Hanging
week, you find you need to cancel,
am. All singles out from communi-
Judge,” Isaac C. Parker, have lunch
please also let us know as we need
ties or worship services are invited
28 ASBURY TIDINGS
to join together for a short time of
Singles Ministry Potluck Fellowship
fellowship. Look for us in the north
Sunday, October 26, 12–2 pm, Par-
café (former student café) begin-
lor. Come bring your children and
ning October 5! Hope to see you
enjoy a delicious lunch, courtesy
there!
of your fellow singles! Just bring a “family sized” food item, home-
Divorce Recovery
made or purchased! Great food,
Tuesdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.
great fellowship, new friends…it
For those suffering from the early,
just doesn’t get much better than
highly emotional stages of divorce
that!
and separation trauma. Childcare available. Divorce Rebuilding Thursdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335. For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce. Childcare available. Fall Football Tailgate Party Sunday, October 5, 3–7 pm, North Café. When’s the last time you went to a good, old-fashioned tailgate party? That’s right…with the burgers, brats, chicken tenders and all
Café Celibataire Luncheon Sunday, November 23, 12–2 pm, CLC. Asbury single adults, you are invited to join us for Café Celibataire—our new Singles Café! You will enjoy a relaxed, bistro-like atmosphere, where you can sit and chat with your friends as you are served a delicious, catered luncheon. The food is always fabulous, and the cost is just $5 per person, for those 11 years of age and up. Children 10 & under eat FREE from a special children’s menu! This is an event you do not want to miss!
the trimmin’s? Well, that’s been too long! If you’re a single adult at Asbury, you are invited to come join the fun on Sunday afternoon, October 5, around 3 pm. Put on your fan gear, bring the kids if you like, and get ready for heady doses of cheering (and food), and booing (and food), and friendly rivalries. It will be a blast you won’t want to miss! The only food you need to bring is your favorite tailgate treat with enough to share (veggies, chips, dips, chili, dessert, etc.). Hamburgers, brats and chicken tenders (with condiments) will be provided. No reservations are necessary, and your friends are invited! Be there.
Christmas Shop for Single Parent Families Saturday, December 6, 10 am–3pm. Did you know there are approximately 175 single parents at Asbury, with 350 children to raise, and so many more just outside the doors of our church? During the Christmas season, it becomes more difficult for those families to make ends meet, and many children do not get to experience the joy of selecting and purchasing gifts for others. Through the Asbury Singles Ministry Christmas Shop, we hope to offer some relief from that pressure. On Saturday, December 6, kindergarten children through fifth graders coming from a single-parent home will have the opportunity, for
just $5 each, to select gifts for their parents, grandparents and siblings. (Hardship scholarships available upon request.) The Christmas Shop will be open to children of Asbury families, Grove Elementary School, Lindbergh Elementary School, Walt Whitman Elementary School, Jenks East Elementary School, and Youth at Heart. Individuals and Asbury communities are being asked to assist by providing small gifts valued at no more than $5 each, or financial donations to help with purchases and refreshments. Unwrapped gifts may be brought on Sunday mornings to the singles “Meet & Greet” table in the north café (former student café), or during the week to the south welcome desk. In addition to the purchase of gifts or financial contributions, volunteers are needed to assist with set-up and clean-up, greeting, registration, hospitality, wrapping gifts…the list goes on and on! To offer your services, e-mail Gretchen at information@asmtulsa.com, as soon as possible, and begin praying for this inspired effort to bring the love of Christ to “the least of these.”
students 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 Bible Study Wednesday night Bible Study is the place to be from 6:30-8 pm on Wednesday nights beginning Sept 10. Come to the Venue and hang ASBURY TIDINGS 29
out, have fun and study what God’s
7th Grade Confirmation Meeting
God with other College Students!
words has for us.
If your student is going through the
Stay and enjoy a homecooked
Confirmation Program this meeting
meal. Bible Study 6-7:15 pm, Dinner
Called to Ministry: 10th, 11th, 12th
is mandatory! Meet upstairs in the
7:15-9 pm.
Is God speaking to you, leading
Venue area from 4:30-6 pm! Don’t
you...okay, maybe CALLING you
miss it!
into a future vocational ministry?
women Car Care Saturdays
You may not know what that looks
Life Hurts, God Heals
November 15, 9 am-12 pm. This
like; you just know that God is
Life Hurts, God Heals is created
every-other-month workday is
stirring something in you. Join
specifically for teenagers who have
provided for Asbury’s widows and
us every month on the SECOND
experienced some type of pain in
single moms. While the ladies wait
SUNDAY from 12:30-2 pm in the
their lives—divorce, bad breakups,
in the comfort of the cafe, volun-
Student Ministry Area for lunch and
sexuality issues, disappointment,
teers check tires, belts, fluids, filters
to talk about what this means for
rejection, alcohol, etc. Groups start
and batteries. They also vacuum
you. This is for 10th, 11th & 12th
August 27, 6-8 pm, every Wednes-
and wash the vehicles, then update
graders. RSVP to Amy at 392-1156
day night, contact us anytime or
owners on what’s running smoothly
the Thursday before.
come by the Student Ministry
and what needs professional at-
area and sign up. Parents if this is
tention. This free service gives our
7th, 8th & 9th Small Groups
something that grabs at your heart
men the opportunity to put their
Don’t miss our on being a part of a
to help lead we need you, please
faith into action through loving and
small group! It’s a place to grow in
call Marsha at 392-1157!
serving those in need. No reserva-
your relationship with Jesus, have
tions required; just get your vehicle
some accountability, and just have
Common Ground
fun! 7th and 8th grade meet from
Common Ground 7th -12th Worship
4:30-6 pm and 9th grade meets
Experience, October 26 is going
Home Improvement Work Days
6:15-8 pm in the Venue68. (It’s never
to be changed up some this fall.
Saturday, October 18. The Men’s
too late to sign up, just come by
We are going to have an all grade
Ministry offers this service for wid-
Student Ministries Area!)
worship night from 6-7:30ish pm
ows, widowers and single moms
instead of small groups. You won’t
within the Asbury family. Volun-
10th, 11th & 12th Breakaway
want to miss this evening. Small
teers make themselves available
Join us every Wednesday (except
group leaders you are invited as
every other month to help folks
Oct. 15, Nov. 26, Dec. 24 & 31) at
well and we will have a special time
out with minor home repairs or
Venue68 for a time of connection,
at the beginning of this evening just
minor home improvement projects.
worship, and God. We will also
for you!
Just pick up a request form at the
have nights of just random fun!
in line by 11:30 am.
South Welcome Desk, or call your
Don’t miss the food and hang out
Metro Worship
request to Pam Wallace at 392-1199,
times afterwards! Come be a part.
All 7th-12th graders come join
ext. 253 at least ten days before
6:30-8:30ish pm
youth from all over the city in a
the scheduled work day. A Home
night to just worship Jesus. We
Improvement volunteer will contact
7th - 12th Rebelution Gathering
meet the first Wednesday night
you, and make arrangements to get
Don’t miss the opportunity to
of every month from 7-8:30ish at
the job(s) done.
deepen your love for continue
Venue68.
living the life of Rebelution on
Women of the Word
October 21! Meet upstairs in the
College Bible Study
Wednesdays from 10-11 am in
Venue 68 area from 6:30-8 pm. All
Come and be a part of the College
Rm. 2319, Rev. Darlene Johnson,
7-9th graders welcome!
Ministry at Asbury and learn about
teacher.
30 ASBURY TIDINGS
Phone Buddies
speaker Jessica Dyer. Watch your
9:15 am, Contemporary Praise &
Ladies, would like a “cheer me
mail or e-mail for a registration
Worship: Sanctuary. Music, time
up” with your morning coffee? We
form, with complete information on
of prayer and the message will all
have dedicated, caring women who
what you can expect at this year’s
carry a prevailing theme for the
would love to meet that need in
conference. “I will sing of the Lord’s
morning. Dr. Harrison preaches.
your life by being your very own
great love forever; with my mouth
“phone buddy.” Call Shirley Martin
I will make your faithfulness known
9:15 am, Open House Worship:
and she’ll connect you with a loving
through all generations.” Psalm
Community Life Center. A relaxed
volunteer.
89:1.
atmosphere with engaging worship. Dr. Tom Harrison’s message
Crafty Ladies Fellowship
UMW Sixth Annual Christmas Tour
is simulcast with an occasional live
Mondays, 9:30 am-2 pm, Rm. 2820.
of Homes
sermon from another pastor.
We gather to work on our own
Friday, December 5 & Saturday,
individual arts and crafts, stop
December 6, 11 am–4 pm. Mark
for a delicious potluck lunch, and
your calendars now, church fam-
continue on through until 2 pm. We
ily, for the fun and excitement of
would love to have you join us. For
UMW’s Annual Christmas Tour
more contact Beverly Clarke and
of Homes to benefit missions! As
stop by some Monday!
always, four beautiful homes are being readied for your visit, each
UMW October Luncheon & Pro-
filled with unique and wonderful
gram
decorations. Family traditions,
Thursday, October 2, 11:30 am–1
decorating ideas and the sights and
pm, CLC. Attention ladies! The
sounds of Christmas await you!
program planned for October’s
And for those who wish to ride our
luncheon will be a presentation
shuttles to and from the homes,
by Toni Moore, President & CRO
you’ll enjoy complimentary tea
of Hospitality House of Tulsa. A
and cookies while you wait, as well
delicious luncheon prepared by our
as the opportunity to browse the
church hostess, Virginia, will also
Christmas Shoppe and purchase
be provided for just $6 per person.
homemade goodies!
Bring a friend, and be a part of the
Tickets will be available from all
blessing! Our scripture emphasis
circle leaders or in the main church
for this month comes from Matthew
office, beginning October 6. Again,
25:35: “For I was hungry and you
ALL proceeds benefit missions
gave me something to eat, I was
so come be and blessing, and be
thirsty and you gave me something
blest! And remember to bring your
to drink, I was a stranger and you
friends and family, too!
invited me in.”
11 am, Traditional Service: Sanctuary. The Chancel Choir and the Asbury Orchestra and Concert Band offer a variety of styles of music. Sign interpreters for the deaf are offered. Dr. Tom Harrison preaches. 11 am, Modern Service: Venue 68. Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by the worship band. Dr. Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast.
worship
A Legacy Worth Living Workshop
8 am, Communion Service:
for Women
Mason Chapel. Traditional service.
Saturday, October 25, 9 am–12 pm,
Communion is served and Dr. Har-
CLC. Let’s face it…Christ left us a
rison preaches.
LEGACY that is worth living! Join us for an interactive workshop with ASBURY TIDINGS 31
asbury
new members
Brent Colgan & Melanie Boeken, Riley & Hunter Boeken
Margaret Bacon
Sheena Gilming, Daegan
David Newport
Anthony Imboden
John & Emily Odom
Danielle Patton, McKenzie & Tanner
32 ASBURY TIDINGS
Gale Labadie
Bill & Marinee Ricks
Joe & Rene Pace
Dave & Noelle Fling, Max & Nina Kazarian
Jim & Beth Lenderman, Hayden & Jordan
Dave Patterson
Harry & Lois Robbins
welcome to asbury
we’re glad you’re here
Joe & Lynn Robbins
Donna Walker
Catherine Westbrook
Ray Schlee
Tim & Michelle Sheehan, Cheyenne, Dakota & Ashley Pesich
Jeff & Samantha Whelan, Emma
Holly Wyatt, Miranda
If you are interested in learning more about who we are, plan to attend one of the Exploration classes designed to tell you more about Asbury and what we believe. Choose from one of the upcoming Sunday membership classes: October 5, 2008 • November 2, 2008 • December 7, 2008 Classes are from 12:15 - 2 pm. Call 392-1191 to reserve your place. Childcare is available and lunch is provided. ASBURY TIDINGS 33
asbury
55 years
family room in celebration of marriage 60 years
55 years
50 years
Dick & Joan Link October 31, 1948
Jim & Charlene Yeager June 7, 1953
Bill & Jayne Mason July 9, 1958
Bill & Janene Jones Don & Ellie Todd October 2, 1948 October 1, 1948
Dwayne & Awilda Godsey September 5, 1953
Don & Cleo Collins June 3, 1958
45 years
40 years
35 years
30 years
Sonny & Mary Helen Plischke July 19, 1963
Ron & Mary Bond September 21, 1968
Al & Sherry Houser July 25, 1973
Craig & Sheri Johnson September 23, 1978
Martin & Marilyn Brown August 24, 1963
Mike & Bette Bibby June 8, 1968
Richard & Judy Edmonson May 13, 1973
Brian & Brenda Whitt June 24, 1978
Don & Treva Wiruth June 30, 1973
25 years
20 years
15 years
5 years
Laryy & Joyce McCool June 11, 1983
Len & Deanna Villalon August 6, 1988
Chris & Kristen Walton July 31, 1993
Daryl & Sheila Slater August 6, 2003
Kevin & Kim Bonifield June 18, 1988
thanks
Scott & Marianne Morgan June 25, 1988
To All Our Friends at Asbury, Wow! What a celebration! The 50th anniversary party for Bill and Jayne was perfect! Especially when you consider the fact there was a time that we were not sure Jayne would be able to attend. But, she made great progress in a short time. We want to thank all of you for all of your prayers that surely contributed to her recovery. It was such a great day for Bill and Jayne. It meant so much to both of them to see all of their friends at Asbury, in Tulsa and from out of town. It was a day they and we will never forget. We all know the reason the party was such a success. It was because of all of you. Those of you who organized and planned. Those who shopped, cooked and served. Those who set up the room then tore it
we celebrate we remember 34 ASBURY TIDINGS
Jeff & Lisa Thomas April 26, 2003
down and cleaned it up. For all the time working on the wonderful video that was so memorable. To all who volunteered to make the day so special, we are so grateful. Because of the timing of Jayne’s illness, in those weeks before the party and the amount of care that she needed, we could have NEVER done it without ALL of you. We all appreciate and thank you very much, The Family of Bill & Jayne Mason: Peggie & Gary Nash Robin, Ron, Ryan & Stephen Tanner Cameron, Adriane & Will Mason Randy Mason Jennifer and Nick Simmons
• Gage Hamilton Cheatham, son of Brian & Amy Cheatham, born August 19, 2008 • Margaret Brooke Butler, daughter of Ryan & Kelly Butler, born August 27, 2008 • Kinsey Tate Hutson, daughter of Damon & Lauren Hutson, born August 31, 2008 • Emma Grace Smith, daughter of Aaron & Kim Smith, born September 1, 2008 • Richard Kurtzweil, husband of Phyllis, died August 10, 2008 • Anita Truelove, wife of Kenneth, died August 16, 2008 • Evelyn Walworth, mother of Jill (Ron) Brown, died August 25, 2008 • Bill DeWitt, husband of Pixie, died August 27, 2008 • Alma Robson, died August 29, 2008
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