T
here are many misconceptions about Christmas. Our traditions are incredibly inac-
curate. It actually did not happen on December 25 (nobody knows the actual date, but it is very doubtful it was a “White Christmas”). Christmas was not an emphasis for the early church. It is a nice hymn, but we do not know how many “Wise Men” attended (or even when they arrived). Exchanging gifts, Christmas trees, holiday feasts, and about everything we associate with Christmas is an “add-on” to the original message. I do not mean to sound like Scrooge or the Grinch who stole Christmas; I just want to acknowledge that many things we celebrate today were not part of the original event. Let me be clear, I am not advocating eliminating our traditions! However, these “add-on’s” should not move us from the heart of the matter. Christmas is the most incredible, unbelievable event imaginable. I was taking Communion the other night and it hit me again—it is just inconceivable that God would become a human being and enter the earth in the person of Jesus Christ. The Bible teaches that Jesus was not just a good man that God adopted as His son, but that Jesus was “in the beginning with God” (John 1:1). That Jesus is “the Christ” (“the anointed one”) means that He came with a specific mission. His purpose in coming was to bring us back to God. He became our example in a better way to live. Beyond that, He came to die for our sins. In the Old Testament, God dealt with the sins of human beings through a sacrifice. An animal was brought to the altar and it was sacrificed. The sins of the individual were spiritually transferred to the sacrifice, and they were forgiven (Leviticus 16). Jesus became the
“Lamb of God.” Our sins were transferred to Him. He died on our behalf. Thus, the Old Testament sacrificial system came to an end. The most popular song used in churches in America from 1997-2003 was “Lord I Lift Your Name on High”: You came from Heaven to Earth, To show The Way, From the Earth to The Cross, My debt You paid, From The Cross to the grave, From the grave to the sky, Lord I lift Your Name on High Jesus is God. He is the Creator of the World. Christmas (God became a human being), Good Friday (He died upon the Cross), Easter (He was Resurrected), and the Ascension (He returned to heaven) shows the activity of Jesus in our world. He has been the single most important figure in all of human history. Just as He came the first time, He has promised to come again. Just as He has come into millions of hearts through the centuries, he can come into yours, too, if you will ask Him. You will find a peace you have never known, a love that lasts beyond this lifetime, and an overwhelming reason to live. Merry Christmas 2008,
Dr. Tom Harrison
CONTENTS
Managing Editor Tara Lynn Thompson
4 The Stranger Among Us
20 The Great Depression
6 Hark How the Bells
22 Holidays & Pain
8 A New Family Tradition
24 Opportunities
Photographer Don Kreutzweiser
11 Keeping Christ in Christmas
32 New Members
16 A Trip to Remember Christmas
34 Family Room
Guest Contributors Christy Capps • Jacquyn W. Cleary Stephanie Hurd • Vicki Ihrig Joan Kahl • John Westervelt
18 For the Love of Man
Graphic Designer Nicole McMahan
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
ASBURY TIDINGS
‌ y r o t s a s a h Everyone
They ave thousands. h ly b a b ro p ou In fact, y e heartaches, th s, y jo e th s, ce are the experien are the journey we , es v li r ou of the rhythm roaching. And p p a re a e w on on and the horiz gift to share. a t, if g a s a en they are giv for you. It can ly le so ’t n is it d y. An t, You have a stor ope, give suppor h e id v ro p s, er h r ot lighten a load fo lieve, intrigue, re , te ci ex e, iz g , ener r strengthen, calm these things fo ll a o d , in a rt te , en explain, inform someone else. ve to share it. a h ou y , h g ou First, th nd would like to a , o) d ou y d n ory (a If you have a st . We want m or tf la p r ou y Tidings is share it, Asbury , to hear them. for publication ed er d si n co y or To have your st Tara Tidings Editor to s on si is m b . email your su nnthompson.com ly ra ta @ ra ta t a n Lynn Thompso tely 800 words. a im x ro p p a e b Stories should
ASBURY TIDINGS
The Stranger Among Us joan kahl
S
ome of us, who may not entertain all year long, often catch the holiday hospitality bug. We want to decorate,
cook and invite others into our homes making every effort to see they are comfortable and enjoy their experience. On the other hand, Christian hospitality tells us to welcome the stranger to share in our lives—our worship service, communities, small groups, home and lives. We’ve gone out to serve the strangers on a very regular basis through different ministries. We’ve cooked at Salvation Army and John 3:16, furnished apartments for ex-offenders, built Habitat Houses, and delivered holiday food baskets, to name a few. Last winter, Asbury welcomed hundreds of displaced people due to the ice storm. Our volunteers and staff were very gracious, offering care in every way from food and a place to sleep to medical care. This was the ultimate example of welcoming strangers into our home. This December, Asbury will welcome a much smaller group who had no place to go for their annual holiday brunch. This description could fit hundreds of groups; however, this group has very unique needs.
ASBURY TIDINGS
The Tulsa Celiac Support Group is made up of people who have a gluten intolerance prohibiting them from eating anything with wheat, oats or barley. It is extremely difficult to live with this as gluten is hidden in many things. People with other health challenges benefit from eliminating gluten from their diet, as well. One Asbury staff member cannot tolerate gluten due to rheumatoid arthritis. So on December 6, while the Asbury Singles Ministry welcomes hundreds of excited “strangers” (children) to shop for their loved ones, the Celiac Support Group will be gathering in room 2818, bringing their favorite gluten free dishes for their annual holiday pot luck. They too will be excited, not only trying delicious “legal” food but visiting with friends and encouraging those who still struggle living with this challenging disease. More important than welcoming groups are the individual strangers who walk through our doors. The warmest hospitality to strangers is what you and I can do individually. It doesn’t take a storm for us to have the opportunity to extend hospitality to strangers. We can do it every Sunday morning. They are in the sanctuary, the CLC and Venue68. Many have come for the first time or after a long absence and feeling very uncomfortable, wondering if they
It doesn’t take a storm for us to have the opportunity to extend hospitality to strangers. We can do it every Sunday morning. fit in. Many are hurting. Tom reminds us from time to time, it’s not IF something happens in your life but WHEN. And when it does its painful and we need comfort from someone or somewhere, and many choose a church. During the holidays, there are even more hurting people. “Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality,” Romans 12:13. Practice hospitality each Sunday morning. What face is unfamiliar to you? Is it the lady in the pretty dress with the sad eyes, or the man trying to shepherd young children on his own? Who is sitting alone, or looking around with uncertainty on their face? Each of us can reach out our hand to the one we don’t know. It can be as simple as saying, “Good morning, I’m glad you’re here. I don’t think I’ve met you. My name is…” We are the body of Christ. It takes every part of the body to do the work of Christ. Prayerfully
consider your role in reaching out. Yes, outreach can take place within the walls of Asbury. “Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it,” Hebrews 13:2. There will be many angels in and about Asbury during this holiday season. Greet them warmly. Please don’t let them fly away untouched. Writers Note: I first learned of this disease over ten years ago when my sister was first diagnosed. It was seldom heard of at that time. In the past year, her nineyear-old grandson and my 29- year-old son both learned they have it, as well. Today, it is estimated one out of 133 are affected by Celiac, yet 97 percent go undiagnosed. If you or someone in your family has been diagnosed with Celiac, please join us at 10 am, December 6. It would be helpful to know you are coming, so please call Joan Kahl at 392-1176 or jkahl@asburytulsa.org ASBURY TIDINGS
Hark How the Bells
T
he Music of Christmas is a vital part of our Christmas experience each year—the carols we sing and play are indispensable in celebrating the coming of our Lord. And Christmas is a favorite time for
December 14, at 9 am (note the time change for this
all who make music in any way. Your Asbury musical
arranged into seven suites by Texas composer Ran-
family is busy preparing many special experiences
dol Bass.
for our congregation and community to celebrate His birth this year.
The Choir and Orchestra will combine with our narrator, Rev. Sonny Plischke, to tell the Story through scripture and traditional carols, beautifully
Also participating in the service will be Perpetual Light, one of our handbell ensembles, playing
Our Children’s Choirs are busy preparing to pres-
“The Promise Fulfilled,” a piece centering around
ent “Home for Christmas,” written and directed by
the coming Christ, and the Orchestra will play “A
Marty Morris, on Sunday night, December 7, at 6
Christmas Festival of Carols.” Dub Ambrose, Mark
pm.
Bennett and Chris Cleveland will join Hart Morris in
Amid smiles and halos and lots of movement,
leading the congregational music-making.
the Young Musicians choir will present this drama
Pianist Rick Fraley will be our guest again this
drawn from today’s events. Joyful Noise, Joyful
year for his 12th annual Christmas concert, an un-
Sound and the Music Makers dressed in Christmas
interrupted hour of beautiful Christmas music, very
t-shirts will share the Christmas story in song. The
creatively arranged and played by our gifted friend.
hour long presentation will warm your heart. “Home
This concert always provides a welcome and calm-
for Christmas” will be presented in the Sanctuary.
ing break from the rush of Christmas preparations.
The Chancel Choir and the New Covenant Orchestra are preparing “Glad Tidings,” a work com-
day only) and 11 am, in the Sanctuary.
The concert is scheduled for Sunday night, December 21, at 6 pm in the sanctuary.
missioned by the Houston Symphony Orchestra and
Christmas Eve—the anticipated night arrives. And
Chorus in 2004, to be presented Sunday morning,
we will have four opportunities to worship together
ASBURY TIDINGS
on the eve of the Savior’s birth:
in scripture, the candle-lit singing of “Silent Night,”
The 5 pm service is a children-led hour of cel-
and the concluding “Joy to the World,” accompa-
ebration, especially for children and their parents.
nied by the organ, and bells played from all corners
Carol singing, the Story told in scripture and drama,
of the sanctuary, combine to provide a beautiful and
and music provided in part by children, combine to
memorable Christmas experience.
Your Asbury musical family is busy preparing many special experiences for our congregation and community to celebrate
His birth this year.
provide an energetic hour of Christmas cheer! The service is in the Sanctuary.
The 11 pm service is also a candlelight carol service but also includes communion, and it is held in
The 7 pm and 9 pm services are also held in the
the Chapel. Pastoral leadership is provided by Rev.
Sanctuary. These are Candlelight Carol Services,
Spencer Smith. Chris Cleveland will lead the carol
each an hour of traditional Christmas music led by
singing from the piano. The service concludes at
the Chancel Choir, with Pastor Tom Harrison bring-
midnight as Christmas Day arrives. Joy to the world,
ing a devotional word. Congregational carol sing-
the Lord is come!
ing, anthems and carols from the choir, the Story ASBURY TIDINGS
A New Family Tradition story and photos by christy capps
A
smile of sheer delight and anticipation spread across the face of a young girl in Estonia. She listened to the story of the Birth of Christ told by
members of Agape Methodist Church who were visiting her school in Parnu. “Just like the wise men that brought gifts from a faraway land, we bring you gifts sent from children in the United States who want you to know that they love Jesus and they love you, too,” the Agape members told the children. Eagerly, each child received a gift bag filled with small toys and sundry items lovingly purchased by the families of Asbury’s Faith Zone last Christmas. That marked the beginning of our Children’s Ministry Gift Bag Missions project, which is quickly becoming a family tradition. In 2007, Asbury’s Children’s Ministry staff wanted to develop a meaningful outreach project to teach the children about their Christian brothers and sisters all over the world who need to hear the “good news with great joy” (Luke 2:10). We planned the project with our partner church in Estonia, who wanted an outreach to children in
ASBURY TIDINGS
Mallory Roark helping the Zumwalt children, Parker, 6, and Bella, 3, turn in their gift bags.
I John 3:16-18: This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.
Pastor Tom and his wife, Kulli, in front of Agape Methodist Church in Parnu, Estonia.
their neighborhood but lacked the budget. The gifts would let the children know they are welcome at
Then, we taught them about Agape Methodist Church, our partner church in Parnu, Estonia.
church and that Jesus loves them. The Asbury staff
The children also learned that during the Soviet
discovered, through the outpouring of love and par-
years much of the Christian church in Estonia was
ticipation from our families, that a precious Christ-
destroyed. The Methodist Church survived by hav-
mas tradition had begun.
ing birthday parties for children much like Sunday
In September, we began talking about Estonia
school. Then we talked to the kids about how they
to the kids who attend our Sunday morning and
could help put Christmas gifts into the hands of chil-
Wednesday night services. Many of our children
dren in need by reaching out to our partner church
asked the question: “Where’s Estonia?” Using large
halfway across the world.
maps, we taught them that Estonia is just 50 miles
Asbury kids, along with their parents, picked up
south of Finland and has its Eastern border with
white gift bags, which were donated by Tulsack, and
Russia and is about half the size of Oklahoma.
chose a boy or girl. Then they went shopping and ASBURY TIDINGS
filled the bags with small toys, stuffed animals, crayons, coloring books, toothbrushes and toothpaste and Christmas greeting cards. The response to this project was amazing! We collected 175 gift bags. The gifts were then packed and shipped to Estonia by Asbury’s Global Outreach Ministry Teams. This project has become a valued Christmas tradition because it’s kids helping kids. The children of Asbury are blessed knowing they made a difference in the life of a child. The children in Estonia can feel joy in knowing that someone loves and cares for them. Hopefully it will point to the greater picture that God loves them. Estonian child taking art lessons at Agape Church.
You Can Still Help with this Mission Project! Would You Pray For Our Mission? • Pray for the children whose lives will be impacted by the Christmas Gift Bags. Pray especially that many hearts will be opened to God’s love and the Good News of Jesus Christ. • Pray for everyone involved in processing, transporting, and delivering the gifts. Pray for the timely delivery of the gifts. • Pray that these gifts will provide open doors for the staff and volunteers of Agape Methodist Church to minister to unchurched children and families in their community. • Pray for the children and families at Asbury who participated in this project. Thank God for their willingness to let God work through them.
10 ASBURY TIDINGS
12 Days of Keeping Christ in Christmas stephanie hurd
I
“But the Lord said to her, ‘My dear Martha, you magine Mary and Martha live in Tulsa, are so upset over all these details! There is really and Jesus is joining them for dinner. Martha is busy in the kitchen creating a
only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary
wonderful meal with recipes gleaned from Food
has discovered it––and I won’t take it away from
Network. She’s also attempting to decorate sugar
her’” (Luke 10: 40-41).
cookies like the perfect ones in Martha Stewart’s
The Bible doesn’t record what Martha would do
glossy magazine. She just realized she forgot to mail
next. But Jesus called her “dear” which is comfort-
the gifts to her second cousins in Inkster, Michigan.
ing because everyone can relate to Martha this time
Now she’ll have to pay extra for second day air to
of year.
get the gifts delivered before Christmas. And the
It’s perfectly clear what Jesus desires from the
kids are gluing glitter to their homemade Christmas
“Marthas” of the world, “You must love the Lord
cards on her perfectly and elaborately set table.
your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all
Then there’s Mary. She’s sitting on the sofa next to Jesus, hanging on every word He says—without lifting a finger to help.
your mind…and love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22: 37-39). Give Jesus a gift this season by doing something
Martha, stressed and cranky, lays into the kids
special for Him and something special for a neigh-
then stomps into the living room. Slamming a bowl
bor. For example, commit to attending the Advent
of peanut brittle on the coffee table, she glares at
service and one of the Christmas Eve services. This
Mary and then snips at Jesus, “Lord, doesn’t it seem
will begin and end the season worshiping Christ.
unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do
Then love a neighbor by engaging in a service op-
all the work? Tell her to come and help me.”
portunity and/or inviting a friend to one of the following activities. ASBURY TIDINGS 11
Making room in the schedule to love God and
donations to help with purchases and refreshments.
neighbor may require scaling back a big dinner, with-
Unwrapped gifts may be brought to the south wel-
drawing from the office gift exchange, or leaving a
come desk through December 5.
few decorations in storage—but those are “details”
In addition, volunteers are needed to assist with
and Jesus is the one thing worthy of concern. The
set-up and clean-up, greeting, registration, hospital-
12 items listed below offer plenty of opportunities to
ity, wrapping gifts, and the list goes on!
love God and neighbor this Christmas season. Pe-
To help, email Gretchen at information@asmtul-
ruse the list, make some choices, mark the calendar,
sa.com as soon as possible and be praying for this
and have a “Mary” Christmas.
inspired effort to bring the love of Christ to “the least of these.” Christmas Shop for Single-Parent
Day 1: Kick off the Christmas season by celebrating the first Sunday of Advent. Service of Lessons
Families will be held on Saturday, December 6, from 10 am to 3 pm.
and Carols is a wonderful way to help focus on the real meaning of Christmas from the very start. Car-
Day 3: Clay pot soldiers, angels, Christmas trees,
ols and scripture readings will be interspersed by
small wreaths, and more, are made to be displayed
Christmas anthems presented by the Chancel Choir,
and to help bring back pleasant memories for the
the New Covenant Orchestra, Perpetual Light, One
recipients. Ethel Hubbard has created these unique
Voice, and the Young Musicians. This is a service
Christmas gifts for Asbury Connection for over 30
not to miss! Sunday, November 30, at 6 pm in the
years. Volunteers distribute these handcrafted gifts
Sanctuary.
to Asbury members who are homebound or in nursing homes.
Day 2: Children who are in Kindergarten through
When asked why she continues to give in this
fifth grade and come from single-parent homes will
way year after year, Ethel said, “I feel there is such
have the opportunity to select gifts for their parents,
a need for these members, who are the heart of the
grandparents and siblings, for just $5 per child.
church, to know they are still loved and valuable.”
Individuals and
Ethel’s daughter has now joined her in this won-
Asbury
derful ministry. To become an Asbury Connection
communi-
Visitor or to receive visits, please contact Ruth Winn
ties are be-
at 392-1145.
ing asked to provide small
Day 4: Four beautiful homes are being readied
gifts valued at
for visitors, each filled with unique and wonderful
no more than
decorations. Family traditions, decorating ideas, and
$5 each or to
the sights and sounds of Christmas are waiting!
give financial 12 ASBURY TIDINGS
Anyone wishing to ride Asbury’s shuttles to and
from the homes will enjoy complimentary tea and cookies while they wait, along with the opportunity to browse the Christmas Shoppe and purchase homemade goodies. Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the door and are available from all circle leaders or in the main church office. All proceeds benefit missions so come be a blessing, and be blest! The UMW Tour of Homes is Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6 from 11 am-4 pm. Call 492-1771 for more information.
Day 5:
Asbury’s Children’s Choirs present,
“Home for Christmas,” by Marty Morris. Come enjoy a wonderful performance as children from pre-school to fifth grade sing the carols of Christmas, interspersed within a story drawn from the events of today. Sunday, December 7 at 6 pm, in the Sanctuary.
Day 6: Time to get Christmas cards in the mail! Beautiful Christmas cards are available for purchase in the Missions office to support the women in a psychiatric hospital in Gence, Azerbaijan. The cards are made from artwork the ladies have created as part of their therapy. In addition to Christmas cards, regular note cards are also available and make great gifts. All proceeds go to purchase food and to upgrade the facility, which the mission teams describe as “awful.” Contact Mary Ann Smith at 392-1117 or masmith@asburytulsa.org. Christmas cards are $10, and note cards are $8.
Day 7: Asbury members have the opportunity to Adopt a Christmas Child by selecting the name of a child and gifting him or her with an article of clothing and a toy or personal gift. Oklahoma Outreach coordinates this activity with Youth at Heart and Operation Hope Prison Ministry. All of the children are associated with Youth at Heart programs ASBURY TIDINGS 13
or have a parent who is incarcerated. Members will have the opportunity to “adopt” a child on December 7 at the CLC Gallery and the Venue. Gifts should be wrapped with the provided tag taped to the gift and returned to the church by December 14. Individuals and families are invited to participate in delivering these gifts. Please watch for dates and times. Contact Beth McCalman at 392-1116 or bmccalman@asburytulsa.org for more information.
Day 8: Everyone ages 55 and up is welcome to the Christmastime Tweenagers Meeting and Luncheon. A program of fun and inspiring Christmas music will be presented by the Edison High School Choral Department, under the direction of Hart and Marty’s son, Brad Morris. There is no cost for the meal, but donations will be accepted at the check-in table. Thursday, December 11 from 10:30 am-1 pm in the CLC. Call the main office at 492-1771 to make reservations by noon on Monday, December 8.
Day 9: Christmas gift bags are being assembled
that give the Agape Methodist Church in Parnu, Estonia (our sister congregation) a wonderful outreach to the children in their area. Over 200 children will be reached by this effort. Asbury children donated the contents of the Christmas bags, but they need help with the shipping. Contact Mary Ann Smith at 392-1117 or masmith@asburytulsa.org.
Day 10: Come celebrate the joyous season at Asbury Amazing Widows and Widowers Christmas Luncheon. Enjoy a delicious meal, and experience beautiful seasonal music presented by Asbury’s own Nancy Williams. Other surprises await that will delight and encourage during this holy season of love. Tickets may be purchased in the south foyer on Sunday, November 30. Or call Janie Hedrick or Jeri Ann Robinson to make arrangements. The luncheon is Saturday, December 13 from 1 pm-3 pm in the CLC and the cost is $10 (Tickets need to be purchased by Wednesday, December 3).
14 ASBURY TIDINGS
Day 11: Join Pastors Darlene Johnson and Cin-
For the entire 25 Days of Christmas: Schedule dai-
dy Mayes, along with members of the grief support
ly quiet time. Set your alarm to get up one minute
programs, in a service of prayer and healing. The
earlier than the previous morning for 25 days and
emphasis will be on grief and loss experienced with-
spend it in worship and thanksgiving. By Christmas,
in the past year or two. A time has been reserved for
you will have carved out 25 minutes to begin your
participants who desire to light a candle in memory
day with your Creator and Lord, and your internal
of those they’ve lost. This special service can offer
clock will be none the wiser! This is a wonderful gift
“strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.”
to give Him this Christmas.
Service of Remembrance is Sunday, December 14 from 5 pm-6 pm in the Mason Chapel. Contact Cheryl Steffen or call 492-1771 for more information.
Day 12: Christmas Eve will bring four opportunities for families to celebrate the birth of Christ. At 5 pm in the Sanctuary is an energetic, child-led service specifically for children and their families. At 7 pm and 9 pm in the Sanctuary are the Candlelight Carol services led by Pastor Tom Harrison and the Chancel Choir. These services end with the candle-lit singing of “Silent Night,” and “Joy to the World, the Lord is Come!” At 11 pm in the Mason Chapel is the final service, led by Pastor Spencer Smith and Chris Cleveland with carols, scripture and candlelight communion—concluding at midnight. Christmas morning is here!
ASBURY TIDINGS 15
A Trip to Remember Christmas vicki ihrig, asbury early childhood team leader
W
ith little excitement I reached for a not successfully fit, please, or bless the receivers. I writing pad to scribble the annual intentionally overlooked sharing the ordeal of our lists of “to-do” as I began planning 18’ Christmas tree. I began to reflect on this abnormal feeling I often for the holiday season. After I wrestled to locate a writing utensil, it occurred to me I should approach this with an improved attitude this year. Perhaps I should play some familiar Christmas carols to get into the appropriate spirit. The primary list begins with preparation for the family holiday dinner, which I inherited by default 12 years ago. This will cast me into a somewhat anxious rage as I buzz throughout the house solo attacking tubs, floors, windows, baseboards, and all the typical locations few guests ever notice. The second list is the one I clutch as I visit the local grocery store with all the items required for our traditional holiday meal. A meal I will spend hours to prepare, but which will take the family approximately 20 minutes to consume including the blessing delivered beforehand! The next list is always intended to be completed by September and purchased by the last of October. As history continues to repeat itself, that list will be designed with only three weeks remaining until the hour the listed gifts are to be delivered to my family members. My final and last holiday list includes all return gift items and appropriate receipts that did
16 ASBURY TIDINGS
have as the holidays are close at hand. Where was the true Christmas spirit? Where were Jesus Christ and the celebration of His birth other than the brief blessing at the Christmas Eve dinner table and the one hour Asbury’s Christmas Eve service? Surely I could include Him into more of my holiday experience. A few days after the drudgery of contemplating my holiday lists, I received an invitation to visit a school. A Walt Whitman counselor, Micheale Wasson, invited me to spend some time with her learning about the programs Asbury UMC and Walt Whitman had been in partnership with for several years. I jumped on Highway 169, then east on Highway 51, and finally cruised down Tisdale Street with anticipation of what I might learn about this distant elementary school from my home in South Tulsa. I took one wrong turn and landed in a neighborhood just a few blocks from the school. The neighborhood had a different look than that my family knew. Many of the homes were barred with rod iron to shield the windows and doors. I observed no neighborhood playground, no neighborhood
swimming pool. Many impassable streets had potholes, but I did see very content children playing outside with a ball, a stick, and other simple makeshift games. After a phone call to Walt Whitman Elementary, I arrived two blocks to my desired
number of different blessings that Walt Whitman enjoyed through Single’s Ministry, Senior Adult Ministry, P.A.W.S., Women’s Ministry, Children’s Ministry, and more. The ministries combined have delivered volunteers to assist in field trips, donated library vests and school supplies, provided school monitors, donated cold weather gear, juice for testing, emergency backpacks for classrooms, teacher appreciation gifts, emergency clothing, items for Science Lab, School Behavior Store, and lots of needed tissue items. As I was
I was proud to be part of Asbury as I heard of a number of different blessings that Walt Whitman enjoyed through Single’s Ministry, Senior Adult Ministry, P.A.W.S., Women’s Ministry, Children’s Ministry, and more. destination. It, too, had a distinctively different look than what my sons experienced at their public school in South Tulsa. I exited my car and was immediately greeted by a precious young girl. I returned the smile and asked where I might find the office. As I entered the school, a very nice Mrs. Jones directed me to the appropriate office for my appointment. I was curious and a little sad as I gradually wondered through a school in the very same city my sons attended school several miles away but with what appeared to lack much of the needs other schools enjoyed and expected. I arrived at my appointment for a delightful conversation with Mrs. Wasson on the wonderful support Walt Whitman enjoyed from a program, A & W (Asbury and Walt Whitman). I was proud to be part of Asbury as I heard of a
leaving the school, I learned the Asbury Senior Adults donated two Christmas trees this year, as well as beautiful hand-made ornaments. The Senior Adults and the Walt Whitman children will enjoy decorating the trees together one day in early December. I took one remaining glance at the school as I pulled my car out of the parking location directly in front of the school entrance. I began to imagine the two new Christmas trees twinkling through the glass windows by the doors of Walt Whitman Elementary. I imagined the smiles of young children as they shared a sweet Christmas memory with the Asbury Senior Adults. Even though I will miss that special experience, I smiled as I knew My Heavenly Father reminded me of why we celebrate the birth of Jesus. ASBURY TIDINGS 17
For the Love of Man The historic preparation for Jesus stephanie hurd
G
Another four hundred years of silence preceded od created man and woman for this purpose: To be in love with Him. But Christ’s birth. God was saying, “Get ready! Pay at-
they defied God with willful disobedience and went their own way. His heart must have ached as He searched the garden for His insolent, naked children. “Adam!” he cried, “Adam, where are you?” They were ignorant of the pain they would cause. But the Lord knew restoring this lost fellowship would be costly to Him personally. So the first, of many, animal sacrifices were made to clothe Adam and Eve and cover their sin, and God referred to His beloved Son, the seed of a woman to crush the serpent’s head––in Genesis chapter three. Going forward, everything in the Old Testament leads to the restoration of humanity’s relationship to its Creator through the incarnation of Christ. Some four hundred years of silence pass between Joseph (the dreamer) and Moses. Silence: No revelations, angelic visits, or prophecies were recorded. But when the time was right, God appointed Moses to deliver Israel from slavery and birth a nation. This was a watershed moment in Israel’s history. Moses and this event foreshadowed a greater deliverance that would come 14 centuries later.
18 ASBURY TIDINGS
tention! I’m about to do something big!” And when the time was right, the Father appointed Jesus to deliver the world from sin and birth God’s Kingdom on earth. The Lord identified Christ’s lineage through the tribe of Judah in Genesis 49:10, and more specifically, the royal line of King David in 2 Samuel 7:1216. God was careful in this point, as both Mary and Joseph were from David’s stock. According to Isaiah 7:14, Christ would be born of a virgin. When the Holy Spirit fertilized the human egg in Mary’s womb, He made it possible for the Messiah to be fully human without incurring the curse of Adam, while maintaining His full measure of deity. Jesus Christ is the one and only God-Man. He is what every Pharaoh and Caesar pretended to be. The Bible doesn’t say, but it’s likely Jesus and Mary bore a close physical resemblance to one another––they shared DNA, after all. Perhaps Jesus had His mother’s eyes or her smile and similar mannerisms. He certainly had His Father’s heart. They shared a sacrificial love for their creation––among
other things. About 735 years before Christ was born, the Lord indicated through the prophet Micah, His birthplace and His eternal nature. “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Micah 5:2). At the right moment, God moved all the pieces into place to execute His plan: A carpenter from the royal line of David, a Jewish maiden, Caesar Augustus and a tax enrollment, which required registration at ancestral homes. Thus He brought the young
cave where the sacrificial flocks were born and to be tended by the same shepherds who tended the sheep destined to die for the sins of humanity. In Hebrew, Bethlehem means “home of bread” and thus issued the “Bread of Life,” the holy One of Israel who would save the world from their sin and give them eternal life. The Lord went to great lengths to redeem His creation: With precision and accuracy and great detail He proclaimed the coming Christ in His Word, in His actions and in the movement of the stars. Throughout Israel’s history He provided living parables of His redemption plan. He patiently ex-
amazing to think God spent thousands of years preparing for the arrival of Christ and the subsequent events of His life, but it’s even more amazing to realize the reason why.
It’s
couple to Bethlehem for the birth of the Christ-child, in keeping with His Word. Since the small town was swollen with visitors, Mary and Joseph were relegated to shelter in a stable––not a wooden structure, as westerners would think––but a natural cave in the hillside. Besides boasting the birthplace of King David, Bethlehem also had the awesome responsibility of raising the Temple flocks. These sheep grazed year-round on the surrounding hillsides, they birthed lambs in the stables and eventually traveled a few miles north to Jerusalem for the sole purpose of sacrifice. The Lord, in His brilliance, caused the Lamb of God to be born in a lambing
erted divine effort to pay the price for humanity’s willful disobedience and He rolled out His strategy, like a scroll, to bring every willing person into His Kingdom through the birth, life, death, and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ. It’s amazing to think God spent thousands of years preparing for the arrival of Christ and the subsequent events of His life, but it’s even more amazing to realize the reason why. “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him” (John 3: 15-16). Quite simply, He loved us and missed us and He wanted us back.
ASBURY TIDINGS 19
Christmas During the Great Depression john C. westervelt
I
n the 1920s, people wore fine clothes and drove fancy cars. As newlyweds in
an upper branch, we proudly walked the several
that period, my dad and mother were living
with pads on the ends of one board so the cross
in Oklahoma City where my dad had a good job
was level when sitting on the garage floor. We ham-
selling road machinery. My older brother Wallace,
mered a large nail through the cross and into the
my younger sister Harriette, and I were born a year
trunk of the tree. Next, we carried our prize into the
apart. Harriette arrived in January 1929 before the
living room, set the tree in front of the window that
stock market crashed in October. The Great Depres-
faced the street, and called out to Mother.
sion of the 1930s followed.
blocks home. Using scrap lumber, we made a cross
When she came to see what we had, she was
Sales of road machinery came to a halt. Many
pleased. Mother never cried, but I suspect her eyes
were out of work, and those who had a job didn’t
were damp that day. Mother called Harriette; and
have much money. As a child, I assumed this was
the two of them got the box of lights and ornaments
the way it was supposed to be.
from the closet shelf.
One year, Wallace and I saved our money for
The lights were laid on the floor and plugged into
Christmas to surprise our mother. In mid-December
the socket. When they didn’t glow, we tested each
with a quarter each, we walked to the Christmas tree
socket with a new bulb. With the lights working and
lot. The six-foot trees were marked a dollar.
placed on the tree, Mother gave each child an orna-
“What can we buy for two quarters?” I asked the man. “Pick one you like and we’ll see,” the proprietor said. We picked a medium size tree and the man said, “Give me both quarters and the tree is yours.” With Wallace holding the trunk and me holding 20 ASBURY TIDINGS
ment and a hook. This continued until all the ornaments were in place. Finally, each child got a handful of silver icicles to hang on each of the branches. I have never been more proud of a Christmas tree. I looked forward to Christmas morning. From a year earlier, I expected one gift from Mother and
Daddy. Mother’s brothers and sisters with no children sent a package with a gift for each child. I remember the proud feeling of holding my dollar pocket watch, a gift from Uncle Charles. In preparation for Christmas, Mother attached the pecan cracker to the kitchen table. Wallace and I showed our muscle by pulling the metal handle to crack the native pecans. By the time we finished, the kitchen floor was covered with pieces of pecan shells. A straw broom was used for cleanup.
We carried our prize into the living room , set the tree in front of the window that faced the street, and called out to Mother…
I have never been more proud of a Christmas tree.
Mother learned from her mother how to make Christmas candy and cookies. I remember well the taste of divinity, fudge, and Aunt Bill’s candy, all with pecans. Aunt Bill’s began with copious amounts of sugar in an iron skillet where the sugar was stirred over a low flame with a spoon until the sugar caramelized.
Enough jelly to cover the end of a tea-spoon was pushed into the hole before placing a pecan half on top. The hot oven did the rest. The Great Depression lasted ten years. This likely weighed heavily on Daddy and Mother. As a child, I had no such concerns. Happiness and joy overflowed my heart each year at Christmas.
Each child asked Mother to make his or her favorite cookie. You can be sure a child’s hand was in the cookie dough. For one cookie, the dough was pressed by hand all across the cookie pan. The dough was covered with well beaten eggs, brown sugar, and chopped nuts, then baked. For another cookie, a quarter-size ball was formed by rolling the dough between two small hands. The ball was put on the cookie sheet, and a hole was punched with a child’s finger. ASBURY TIDINGS 21
When Holidays Bring Pain Grief can turn a season for celebration into emptiness
jacquyn w. cleary, m.s. licensed professional counselor, licensed marriage & family therapist
T
he Holidays are a time when we look forward.
Usually, we start anticipating the holidays several weeks before the season. If we don’t then stores, radio, television are all there to remind us. Even our church and our relatives remind us the season is fast approaching by planning holiday events. For most of us this what is “normal.” However, what happens to us when we experience the unexpected? When a loved one dies? For many, there is total emptiness. Everything changes when someone dies or there is an extreme loss. This loss can take place with death, divorce, or any kind of change that involves loss. When we lose someone or someone dies, absolutely nothing is ever the same again. Most of us are not equipped for that. It is huge. So what if we find ourselves in this state? First, we should understand that most people do not understand how we feel. The emptiness is overwhelming. Our purpose and direction in life just vanishes…into nothingness. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross describes the stages of grief as shock and denial, anger, depression, bargaining and acceptance. All people experiencing grief go through these stages. Many times when one expects they are through the grief process, they loop back
22 ASBURY TIDINGS
through it and wonder why they don’t seem to feel any better. It is experienced differently with different people, but the stages are the same.
What can you do when you feel so devastated? Understand this is a time when you may need people, support, empathy, tenderness and time. This can be a time when some turn their anger on God and blame Him for their loss. However, turning toward God, your faith and scripture during this time can be very helpful and comforting. Letting go during a time when we really want to take control is so very difficult, but very important. There are things you can do to ease the pain: • Be good to yourself. Allow yourself all of your feelings. It is important not to push feelings down or hold back and “act brave.”
• Talk to someone who will listen like a professional counselor and consider a grief support group. • Try to make peace with the past. If you have unfinished business with the person you have lost.
• When you are overwhelmed with emotion, very present help in times of trouble. • Proverbs 3:6, Trust the Lord with all your heart don’t try to fight it. Embrace it, this is the “Real” ceremony of love and appreciation you have for that person. Your grief means that they “mattered”.
• During the holidays, try to adjust your expectations. Change can be good. You don’t have to do what you have always done. You can create new experiences.
• Try to make sure you are eating and sleeping regularly. You will feel emotionally and physically exhausted at times.
• Turn to your church community, if you are involved with a church, and let them embrace you. • Turn to the scriptures for insight and comfort. These are a few that might help: • Psalms 147:3, He heals the broken hearted binding up their wound. • Matthew 5:4, Blessed are those that mourn, for they shall be comforted. • John 14:18, No, I will not abandon you or leave you as orphans in the storm, I will come to you. • John 16:33, I have told you these things so that you will have peace of heart and mind. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows, but cheer up, for I have overcome the world. • Psalms 48:1, God is our refuge and strength, a
and lean not on your own understanding. • Psalms 23:4, Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for you are with me, your rod and your staff, they comfort me. • John 14:1-3, Let not your heart be troubled, believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions. • Ecclesiastes 3:1-4, To every thing there is a season, a time to every purpose under the heaven; a time to be born, a time to die, a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted. A time to kill, and a time to heal, a time to break down, and a time to build up, A time to weep, and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance. • 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, What a wonderful God we have. He is the Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ, the source of every mercy, and the one who so wonderfully comforts and strengthens us in the hardships and trials and why does He do this? So that when others are troubled, needing our sympathy and encouragement, we can pass on to them this same help and comfort God has given us. These are only a few scriptures. There are many more. Leaning on your Faith and God even when we don’t understand, can be helpful. May you have a Blessed Holiday full of strength and encouragement from those whom you love.
ASBURY TIDINGS 23
asbury
opportunities general information Breakfast
please designate Asbury as your church. The after-hours pastoral emergency line can be reached by calling 492-1771, selecting option 2, and leaving a message for the pastor on call.
Served from 7:15-9 am in the
Engaged Couples
CLC. Come enjoy fellowship with
If you are planning to use an
Asburians along with fresh donuts,
Asbury pastor to officiate and/or
bagels, biscuits & gravy, sausage,
use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to
eggs, fruit, and cereal. $2 for adults
book ASAP to allow ample time
& $1 for children 12 & under.
for Couple-to-Couple (required
Sunday Morning Worship 8 am, Mason Chapel
premarital sessions). Six months to one year lead time suggested.
(Traditional Communion)
The Gazebo is Open
9:15 am, Sanctuary
CDs of Tom’s “Message of the Day”
(Contemporary)
are available immediately following
9:15 am, CLC (Open House Wor-
the worship service for $3. Prayer
ship) (Acoustic Worship, Casual
Journals are also available for $5
Setting)
each.
11 am, Sanctuary (Traditional w/ sign interpreter)
Recycling
11 am, Venue 68 (Modern)
Recycle unwanted paper products.
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
Three 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.
8:00, 9:15, & 11 am and Wednesdays, 6 pm and Shepherd’s Flock
Doors of Asbury posters are at the
on Tuesdays at 6 pm. NEW!
Welcome Centers…FREE! Suitable
“Footprints” on Sundays at 11 am
for framing.
for Single Ladies ages 30-55 (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, 24 ASBURY TIDINGS
New Additions to the Library The Asbury Library is a wonderful resource. Thank you to all who continue to contribute books to our Library.
access Hands of Love Sign Choir Sundays, 6-7 pm, Rm. 2821 Friends in Christ Community Sundays, 11 am, Rm. 1507
bible study RoadMap All courses being offered in the Fall 2008 RoadMap session are listed on the Asbury website at www. asburytulsa.org and in the Fall brochure. Watch for listing of new courses for Winter 2009 beginning the week of January 5. Sign up and book distribution for Winter session will be on Sunday, January 4 before and between worship services!
care and support Visits to Asbury Members Asbury has a unique group of volunteers (Asbury Connection) who regularly visit people who are either homebound or in nursing homes. If you are interested in being visited, call Ruth at 392-1146, or contact the coordinator, Abby Sluice at ozyanks2000@yahoo.com Prayer Card Sending Team Usually meets first and third Mondays at 10 am in Rm. 1621 to send cards with God’s encouraging words and our prayers to those who are ill or going through hard times. Cards and care packages are also sent to Asbury-related military personnel. Contact Gwen Mohler at grmohler@aol.com for more information, or call 392-1146. Asperger Support Group First Thursday from 7-9 pm in Rm.
1506. For mothers of children with
Parlor. Call Ruth at 392-1146. No
Asperger Syndrome. Childcare
meeting in December.
available. Military Connection Alzheimer’s Support Group
Please join us in praying for our
Third Thursday, from 1:30-3 pm in
troops in harm’s way and their
Rm. 1621. Christian hope, support
families. Periodic care packages and
and education for friends and
monthly encouragement cards with
family of those with Alzheimer’s or
God’s Word are sent to Asbury-re-
other dementia.
lated military personnel. The Prayer Ministry also covers them in prayer.
Cancer Support Group
Please send contact information
Second Sunday of each month,
(complete name and address) to
4-6 pm, Parlor. For those living with
Gwen Mohler at grmohler@aol.com
cancer and their family and friends.
or call 392-1146.
Divorce Recovery
Asbury Bear Bags
Tuesdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.
Asbury Bear Bags with coloring
For those suffering from the early,
books have comforted young
highly emotional stages of divorce
children for many years, but now
and separation trauma. Childcare
you may give a Bear Bag with a
available.
scripture-based journal included instead! Great for teens and adults.
Divorce Rebuilding
Anyone may deliver an Asbury Bear
Thursdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.
to someone who is grieving. For
For those ready to rebuild their
more information, contact Beth at
lives after separation or divorce.
392-1116.
Childcare available. Eating Disorder Recovery For individuals seeking support in the recovery process. First and third Wednesdays at 12 pm in Room 1621. Bring a sack lunch. Contact Marcy McMurry at marcymcmurry@ sbcglobal.net 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
Celiac Support Group Holiday Potluck December 6, 11 am–1 pm in Rm. 2818. The Celiac Support Group would like to welcome Asbury members with Celiac disease or gluten intolerance to our holiday potluck. Meet others facing the same diet challenges and try new gluten free recipes and new sources for gluten free products. Call Joan Kahl 392-1176 or jkahl@asburytulsa.org Pathways Through Grief Thursdays, January 8-March 12, 1-2:30 pm, rm. 2500. This audio series is based on Doug Manning’s book, “Don’t Take My Grief Away!”
Once people who have experienced loss find themselves in a small, safe setting with others on a similar journey, they begin to find hope and healing with the help of new relationships. Call 392-1191 to register. Thrive Again! Wednesdays starting January 14 at 7 pm (after dinner) in room 2319. This scripturally based class, hosted by licensed counselor Jeff Rindt, features proven strategies for escaping the shame and hopelessness of divorce and renewing your faith in God and yourself. See how God can turn difficult situations into a catalyst for a better life. Come as you are and find acceptance, new connections, optimism and the motivation to be your best self. For more information, call Jeff at 742-7722.
children Registration forms for all children’s activities are available in the preschool and elementary lobbies. Core Childcare Hours Parents who are involved in RoadMap classes during these core hours will have childcare provided for children 6 weeks-12 yrs. of age with no reservations needed: Sun: 8 am-12 pm Mon & Tue: 9 am-12 pm Tue, Wed, & Thur: 6-9 pm Murdock Villa November 16. A mission opportunity for our 5th & 6th grade students. Usually the second Sunday of the month from 12:303:30 pm. Cost is $5 for CiCi’s Pizza. We’ll eat, then visit Murdock Villa ASBURY TIDINGS 25
where we will play Bingo and do
12:30 pm with a few remaining
crafts with special needs adults. It is
hours during the childcare weekday
an amazing time to witness in our
and weeknight core hours. Suc-
local community. Limited to 10 kids
cessful applicant should have a
each month. For further information
love for children, willingness to
contact Jami at 392-1166.
portray Christian beliefs and values to children and families. Resumés
5.6 Christmas Eve Rehearsal
should be sent to Vicki Ihrig, Asbury
December 10 & 17, 4-5:30 pm, 5.6
UMC, 6767 S. Mingo Rd., Tulsa, OK,
Room. The 5th and 6th graders
74133 or call her at 918-392-1160.
have the privilege of presenting the Christmas Story to the congrega-
marriage & family
tion at the 5 pm Christmas Eve Family Service. We would love
Attention “Graduates” of Couple-to-Couple
instrumentalists, scripture readers
If so, please stop by Marriage
and actors and actresses to make
display tables on November 16 and
this a memorable evening for all in-
pick up a survey—or pick up any-
volved. Please pick up a registration
time in Care Note racks (in front of
form and return it before December
CLC and at South entrance) before
3 so we can make sure we have
December 28. Your input is valuable
enough parts for everyone. Call
for future planning.
Amber Cox at 392-1171, or acox@ asburytulsa.org if you have any
50+ Anniversary Recognition
questions. Adult help with rehears-
Tom Harrison will recognize mem-
als and the program is critical to
ber couples married 50 or more
help get the message delivered on
years on Sunday, February 8 in the
this special night. Both rehearsal
11 am service. If you have not been
nights are mandatory for participa-
previously recognized, contact Ruth
tion in the service.
at 392-1146. Corsage delivery teams and banquet help also needed.
discipleship Discipleship Communities
Attention Engaged Couples
If you have not yet found an Adult
If you are planning to use an
Discipleship Community check out
Asbury pastor to officiate and/or
“Get Involved” on our website,
use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to
www.asburytulsa.org or pick up a
book ASAP to allow ample time
brochure at one of our Welcome
for Couple-to-Couple (required
Centers.
premarital sessions). Six months to one year lead time is suggested.
employment PT Nursery Staff Positions Available Part-time position will work 1015 hours weekly in the Asbury
Milestone Wedding Anniversaries
Nursery. The schedule will include
brucetschutte@valornet.com or call
Sunday morning from 8:30 am-
Ruth at 392-1146.
26 ASBURY TIDINGS
Email your December or January Milestone Anniversary (5,10,15,20, etc.) to Carolyn Schutte at
membership Asbury Exploration Come to a lunch/class to learn more about becoming a member of Asbury. Sunday, December 7, from 12:15-2 pm in CLC. Lunch provided and childcare is available for children six weeks through 6th grade. Call 392-1191 to register.
men Men’s Prayer Breakfast Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 am in the CLC. Attention men of Asbury. Make plans to join us for a great time of meaningful worship, lifechanging prayer and an awesome big breakfast, all for just $3 per person. First-time guests are free. December 5
Don Herrold
December 10 Todd Johnson December 17 Bill Johnson December 24 Mark Springer Men’s Fraternity: The Quest for Authentic Manhood Tuesdays, January 6–April 28, 6:157:30 am, Rm 2820, $10 fee. Fulfilling men’s need for a compelling vision of Biblical masculinity, this series teaches men how to live lives of authentic manhood as modeled by Jesus Christ and directed by the Word of God. More than just a rally or Bible study, it is designed to help men come together, strengthening each other through weekly sessions of Biblical teaching and small group interaction. These time-tested resources have equipped men all over the world to pursue noble manhood as a life-long priority. Topics include “Seasons of a Man’s Life,” “Defining Manhood,” and “Raising Sons and Daughters.” All
men ages 18 and up are encour-
We have Friday lunchtimes from
ministry list. If you would like to join
aged to participate.
11:30 am–1:15 pm reserved, just
and become a prayer intercessor for
for us. Come show us what you’ve
those serving around the world,
got, and we’ll have a great time of
contact Missy at 392-1163.
Men’s Fraternity: The Great Adventure Wednesdays, January 7–March 1, 6-8 pm, Room 1335, $10 fee. A follow-up course to “The Quest for Manhood,” this 20-week 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. All men ages 18 and up are encouraged to participate. Men’s Winter Retreat Friday, January 9, 7 pm; Saturday, January 10, 3 pm—Camp Egan. Attention Men of Asbury! Mark your calendars now for another AWESOME men’s retreat at Camp Egan! Registration cards will be mailed to Asbury homes in early December, and will also be available in the main office and at all welcome centers. If you’re 18 years of age or older, plan to come be a part of a life-changing experience! Watch Asbury publications for details. Men’s Open Basketball Fridays, 11:30 am–1:15 pm, Gym. Men! Make plans to join other Asbury guys and their friends each week as we get together for a little “round ball” and lots of fun!
exercise and fellowship. Invite your friends, and we’ll see you on the
missions/vim
court!
Volunteers-In-Mission Opportunities
missions/outreach
• Spring: Cookson Hills, Oklahoma,
Mission Books
Light Construction
Pick up the 2008 mission books at
• April: South Texas, Men’s Hur-
the Welcome Centers or come by
ricane Ike Recovery
the Missions office. Make sure to
• April 18-25: Monterrey, Mexico,
pick up two books...one for Global
MBS & Construction
Outreach and one for Oklahoma
• April 25-May 2: Azerbaijan, Con-
Outreach.
struction & Teaching • May 30-June 6: Ecuador, MBS &
Eyeglass Donations
Construction
Are you wondering what to do with
• June: Lighthouse, Estonia
those old eyeglasses? Donate them
• June 11-18: Honduras, MBS &
to missions! You may drop your
Construction
glasses off in the Global Outreach
• June 18-30: Tanzania, East Africa,
office.
Medical • June 26-July 6: Camp Gideon,
Campbell’s Soup Label
Estonia, Youth Camp & Construc-
Save Campbell’s soup labels for
tion
missions. Please cut the UPC sym-
• August: Parnu, Estonia, MBS &
bol and the Labels for Education
Light Construction
symbol together. Turn these in for
• August 26-September 8: Tanzania,
missions! Questions: Contact Missy
East Africa, Construction
Sistrunk at 392-1163.
• Fall: Cookson Hills, Oklahoma, Light Construction
Mission Matters
• October: Azerbaijan, Construction
A monthly newsletter is available
& Teaching
with recent news of mission hap-
• October 24-31: Monterrey, Mexico,
penings. Preference is for the email
MBS & Construction
version, but hard copies can be
• November 4-8: Monterrey, Mexico,
mailed if needed. If you would like
Medical
to receive the newsletter, please
• November 11-15: Rio Bravo,
contact Missy Sistrunk at 392-1163
Mexico, Men’s Construction
or msistrunk@asburytulsa.org
• VIM Team Leader Training February 21 in Oklahoma City;
Global Outreach Prayer Ministry
September 19 in Bixby; October 24
News and prayer requests from
in Clinton. For more about these
our missionaries and ministries
exciting mission opportunities,
are sent each week to our prayer
contact Marilene Long at 392-1164 ASBURY TIDINGS 27
or mlong@asburytulsa.org
ranged for choir and orchestra.
To obtain pass codes, call Debbie in the Adult Ministries office, 392-1177.
music
Rick Fraley in Concert
Chancel Choir
Sunday, December 21 at 6 pm in
Service of Remembrance
Wednesdays, 7 pm, Choir Room
the Sanctuary. One of Tulsa’s finest
Sunday, December 14, 5 pm, Ma-
concert pianists, Rick Fraley, will
son Chapel. Join Pastors Darlene
New Covenant Orchestra
present an evening of Christmas
Johnson and Cindy Mayes, as well
Wednesdays, 6-7:30 pm, Rm. 1510
music. Take a break from Christmas
as members of the grief support
shopping and come enjoy this
programs, in a service of prayer
meditative time of Christmas music.
and healing. The emphasis will
Children’s Choirs Wednesdays, 6 pm, various Asbury Power & Light Sundays, 8:15-9:15 am, Rm. 1510 Celebration Ringers Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 pm, Rm. 2506
prayer
be on grief and loss experienced within the past year or two. A time
Altar Prayer
has been set aside for participants
If you would like someone to pray
who so desire to light a candle in
with you during Holy Communion
memory of those they’ve lost. This
or immediately following a worship
special service can offer “strength
service, please come to the altar
for today and hope for tomorrow.”
Youth Orchestra
rail. A pastor or member of the Al-
Wednesdays, 5:30 pm
tar Prayer Team will be glad to pray
recovery
with you for your needs—physical, Asbury Ringers
Celebrate Recovery
emotional or spiritual—at the altar
Wednesdays, 6-6:50 pm, Rm. 2506
Come join this supportive group
or in the Prayer Room.
of people each Monday night at 6
Perpetual Light Thursdays, 10:30 am-12:30 pm, Rm. 2506 Saints of Swing Dixieland Band Thursdays, 2-3 pm, Rm 1510 Children’s Choir Christmas Pageant Sunday, December 7, 6 pm in the Sanctuary. Come join the fun and hear our children’s choirs tell the story of Christmas through drama and songs. Christmas Music Sunday Sunday, December 14 at the 9:15 am and 11 am sanctuary services. The Chancel Choir and New Covenant Orchestra will present “Glad Tidings” by Randol Alan Bass under the direction of Hart Morris. This stunning presentation will feature traditional Christmas carols ar28 ASBURY TIDINGS
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
that the main facility Prayer Room
never intended for you to live in
is open not only to individuals
bondage.
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
Prayer Room Days & Times
the coordinator, Abby Sluice at
Our prayer rooms are accessible to
ozyanks2000@yahoo.com
you at these times: Mason Chapel (during construc-
Senior Sit and Fit Stretching Class
tion): Sundays, 7 am-12:30 pm
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
through the interior door.
from 9-9:30 am in the Gym. All
Main Facility & Venue 68: Mon.-Fri.,
senior adults are invited to join us
8 am-9 pm; Saturday, 10 am-3 pm;
for a time of stretching, coupled
Sunday, 12:30 pm-9 pm.
with lots of fun and fellowship. No
miss this, and remember to invite
Divorce Rebuilding
high impact workout here. We take
your friends! Call the main office at
Thursdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.
it nice and easy. Come give it a try.
492-1771 to make your reservations
For those ready to rebuild their
BY NOON, Monday, December 8. If,
lives after separation or divorce.
Senior Walk in the Gym with Him
during that week, you find you need
Childcare available.
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
to cancel, please also let us know
from 8:30-9 am in the gym. All
as we need to give an accurate
Divorce Recovery
senior adults are invited to join us
count to the cooks. Should you
Tuesdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.
for power walking, coupled with
choose, you may make a donation
For those suffering from the early,
lots of fun and fellowship. Come
for the meal when you check in that
highly emotional stages of divorce
give it a try.
morning. Come join us for fun and
and separation trauma. Childcare
fellowship!
available.
Tuesday, December 9, 5–9 pm, $7
Amazing Widows and Widowers Christmas Luncheon
per person. Come join the senior
Saturday, December 13, 1-3 pm,
adults of Asbury for Christmas
CLC. Come and celebrate the joy-
food, fun and fellowship! We’ll
ous season by bringing a widowed
meet at the church for dinner at 5
friend to our annual Christmas
pm, then depart in Asbury People-
luncheon! You will enjoy an amaz-
Movers for the Christmas Light
ing meal, as well as experience the
Tour, immediately following the
beautiful music of the season pre-
meal. Though we’re still planning
sented by our own Nancy Williams.
our route, one of the highlights will
There are other surprises, too, that
be a tour of Rhema Bible College in
will delight and encourage you dur-
Broken Arrow. Registration forms
ing this holy season of Love. Tickets
are available at the south welcome
may be purchased in the south
desk. Just complete a form and
foyer on Sunday, November 23 and
slip it with your payment, into the
Sunday, November 30. Or, you may
registration slot at the desk. The
call Janie Hedrick or Jeri Ann Rob-
church vehicles can only seat 40
inson to make arrangements for the
folks, so get your registration form
purchase. The deadline to purchase
and payment in Today!
tickets is Sunday, December 3. Cost
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.
Senior Adult Christmas Dinner & Light Tour
is $10. December Tweenagers Program & Luncheon Everyone aged 55 and up is welcome to join us for our monthly Tweenagers meeting & luncheon, taking place on Thursday, December 11, from 10:30 am-1 pm, in the CLC. A program of fun and inspiring Christmas music will be presented by the Edison High School Choral Department, under the direction of Brad Morris! You don’t want to
singles Singles Meet and Greet Sunday mornings from 10:20-10:50 am. All singles out from communities or worship services are invited to join together for a short time of fellowship. Look for us in the north café (former student café)! Hope to see you there!
ASBURY TIDINGS 29
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.”
7th, 8th & 9th Parent Meeting
17! Girls bring a sweet snack, boys
If your students is going through
bring a salty snack
the 9th grade Sexual Purity Curriculum in small groups this meeting
Life Hurts, God Heals
is for you! Come learn you role in
Life Hurts, God Heals is created
fighting this battle along side your
specifically for teenagers who
student. Meet in the Venue area
have experienced some type of
6:15–8 pm, December 7.
pain in their lives—divorce, bad breakups, sexuality issues, disap-
7th, 8th & 9th - 30 Hr Famine
pointment, rejection, alcohol, etc.
December 12-13, Venue 68. Don’t
Every Wednesday night, 6-8 pm.
miss this life changing night that
Contact us anytime or come by the
will open your eyes to the world
Student Ministry area and sign up.
of hunger and what it means to
Parents, if this is something that
play a role in changing the world
grabs at your heart to help lead we
and doing hard things! Watch for
need you, please call Marsha at
registrations they are due Dec 7!
392-1157!
7th, 8th & 9th Grade Breakaway
Called to Ministry: 10th, 11th, 12th
Metro Worship
Sunday mornings, 9:15-10:30 am
Is God speaking to you, leading
All 7th-12th graders come join
in the Breakaway Area. This isn’t
you...okay, maybe CALLING you
youth from all over the city in a
your normal Sunday school. Come
into a future vocational ministry?
night to just worship Jesus. We
join us for worship, fun and games,
You may not know what that looks
meet the first Wednesday night
interactive talk/lesson, and some-
like; you just know that God is
of every month from 7-8:30ish at
times free candy and gift cards.
stirring something in you. Join
Venue68.
students
us every month on the SECOND 7th, 8th & 9th Bible Study
SUNDAY from 12:30-2 pm in the
women
Wednesday night Bible Study is
Student Ministry Area for lunch and
Women of the Word
the place to be from 6:30-8 pm on
to talk about what this means for
Wednesdays from 10-11 am in
Wednesday nights beginning Sept
you. This is for 10th, 11th & 12th
Rm. 2319, Rev. Darlene Johnson,
10. Come to the Venue and hang
graders. RSVP to Amy at 392-1156
teacher.
out, have fun and study what God’s
the Thursday before. Phone Buddies
words has for us. 10th, 11th & 12th Breakaway
Ladies, would like a “cheer me
7th, 8th & 9th Small Groups
Join us every Wednesday (except
up” with your morning coffee? We
Don’t miss our on being a part of a
Nov 26, Dec 24 & 31) at Venue68
have dedicated, caring women who
small group! It’s a place to grow in
for a time of connection, worship,
would love to meet that need in
your relationship with Jesus, have
and God. We will also have nights
your life by being your very own
some accountability, and just have
of just random fun! Don’t miss
“phone buddy.” Call Shirley Martin
fun! 7th and 8th grade meet from
the food and hang out times after-
and she’ll connect you with a loving
4:30-6 pm and 9th grade meets
wards! Come be a part. 6:30-8:30ish
volunteer.
6:15-8 pm in the Venue68. (It’s never
pm. Crafty Ladies Fellowship
too late to sign up, just come by Student Ministries Area!)
30 ASBURY TIDINGS
10th, 11th & 12th Christmas Party
Mondays, 9:30 am-2 pm, Rm. 2820.
10, 11, 12 Breakaway Christmas
We gather to work on our own
Party 6:30-8:30ish pm December
individual arts and crafts, stop
for a delicious potluck lunch, and
& Susan Burkhart, Chris & Missy
• 9:15 am, Contemporary Praise &
continue on through until 2 pm. We
Cooper, and Mark & Calli Mathers.
Worship: Sanctuary. Music, time
would love to have you join us. For
Tickets, $8 in advance and $10 at
of prayer and the message will all
more contact Beverly Clarke and
the door, are available from all
carry a prevailing theme for the
stop by some Monday!
circle leaders or in the main church
morning. Dr. Harrison preaches.
office. Again, ALL proceeds benefit UMW November Luncheon & Program Attention ladies! The program planned for December’s luncheon will be “The Sounds of Christmas,”
missions so come be and blessing,
• 9:15 am, Open House Worship:
and be blest! And remember to
Community Life Center. A relaxed
bring your friends and family, too!
atmosphere with engaging worship. Dr. Tom Harrison’s message
presented by Asbury Chancel Choir
Amazing Widows and Widowers Christmas Luncheon
Members! A delicious luncheon
Saturday, December 13, 1-3 pm,
prepared by our church hostess,
CLC. Come and celebrate the joy-
• 11 am, Traditional Service: Sanc-
Virginia, will also be provided for
ous season by bringing a widowed
tuary. The Chancel Choir and the
just $6 per person. Bring a friend,
friend to our annual Christmas
Asbury Orchestra and Concert Band
and be a part of the blessing!
luncheon! You will enjoy an amaz-
offer a variety of styles of music.
Our scripture emphasis for this
ing meal, as well as experience the
Sign interpreters for the deaf are
month comes from Psalm 147:1;
beautiful music of the season pre-
offered. Dr. Tom Harrison preaches.
“Praise the Lord. How good it is to
sented by our own Nancy Williams.
sing praises to our God, how pleas-
There are other surprises, too, that
• 11 am, Modern Service: Venue 68.
ant and fitting to praise him!”
will delight and encourage you dur-
Rich blend of ancient and modern
ing this holy season of Love. Tickets
worship, led by the worship band.
UMW Sixth Annual Christmas Tour of Homes
may be purchased in the south
Dr. Tom Harrison’s message is
foyer on Sunday, November 23 and
simulcast.
Friday, December 5 & Saturday,
Sunday, November 30. Or, you may
December 6,11 am–4 pm. Mark you
call Janie Hedrick or Jeri Ann Rob-
calendars now, church family, for
inson to make arrangements for the
the fun and excitement of UMW’s
purchase. The deadline to purchase
Annual Christmas Tour of Homes
tickets is Sunday, December 3. Cost
to benefit missions! As always,
is $10.
is simulcast with an occasional live sermon from another pastor.
four beautiful homes are being readied for your visit, each filled
Women’s Outreach Event
with unique and wonderful decora-
Friday, January 23, 6:30–9 pm,
tions. Family traditions, decorating
Sanctuary. Women! Join us for an
ideas and the sights and sounds of
evening of fellowship, praise and
Christmas await you! And for those
worship, and awesome teaching
who wish to ride our shuttles to and
with our very own Pastor Darlene
from the homes, departing at 10:45
Johnson! Watch your mail and
am & 1:15 pm, you’ll enjoy com-
Asbury publications for details!
plimentary tea and cookies while you wait, as well as the opportunity to browse the Christmas Shoppe and purchase homemade goodies! Featured homes this year are those of Clark & Mary Bundren, Mike
worship • 8 am, Communion Service: Mason Chapel. Traditional service. Communion is served and Dr. Harrison preaches. ASBURY TIDINGS 31
asbury
new members
Kiki Aboaba
Beverly Dunson, Claudia & Gage
Ginette Bond
Tiffany Glass
Brad & Laura Isenberg, Ella
Tom Lowell, Skyler & Tyler
32 ASBURY TIDINGS
David & Colleen Diven
Leo Hall
Renee´ Kallenberger
Dave & Emily Mastropieto, Adyson
Annakay Dodgen
Jack & Beth Hamilton, Olivia & Will
Brent Lewis
Anne McNearney
welcome to asbury
we’re glad you’re here
Linda Moss
Mitch & Karen McNutt
Vicki Ross
Ric & Linda Shust
Faila Rice, Stephfanie
Kay Northcutt
Jon & Amy Scoggins
Chad & April Stanton, Lily
Kevin & Kebra Shelhamer, Baker
Aaron & Rachel Veale
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: 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
family room in celebration of marriage 55 years
60 years
Floyd & Vida Bruntzel December 13, 1953
Frank & Bonnie Nuding December 19, 1948
Ken & Carmen Finch December 27, 1953
50 years
Joe & Zagnona Cox December 22, 1953
we celebrate we remember
Glen & Barbara Barnes December 24, 1958
Gene & Barbara Graves December 28, 1953
35 years
25 years
Glen & Susan Scheid October 6, 1973
Michael & Linda Kirby December 2, 1983
• David Alvin Bedford IV, son of Trey & Shannon Bedford, born October 2
• John Keefe, husband of Mary, father of Carla (Larry) Richardson, & grandfather of Stephanie, Lari & Jennifer, died October 16 • Harold Turner, husband of Virginia, died October 19 • John Pittman, husband of Diane, died October 24 • Jeane Abbey, wife of Charlie, died November 2
34 ASBURY TIDINGS
Glorify God‌ Make Disciples