Asbury's Own Nativity Set from Tanzania

december 2011

Asbury’s Own Nativity Set from Tanzania

december 2011

T

hanksgiving has passed, and the Christmas season is approaching. As Christians we have so much for which to be thankful. That is true for Asbury as a church also. Many wonderful things have been accomplished and many people impacted through our ministries and those we support. The most important contribution to that impact comes from our people, both staff and the many who serve for free. Our facility gives us the capacity to handle multiple ministries of considerable size. Of course, facility, staff and programs require funding. Asbury is blessed to have many people who are faithful in their stewardship of money. Putting people and funds together allows amazing things to happen.

You have received (or soon will) a mailing from the church with a letter from Tom, some information about ministry impact this year, and a pledge card for 2012. Many families use the arrival of the pledge card as a reminder to take time to carefully consider their use of the money God has entrusted to them. The sixth of our eight objectives calls for “every member bringing the tithe (10%) in loving obedience to God’s gracious provision.” In this obedience there is also the joy of knowing that each of our gifts is supporting transformational work through Asbury.

What about those who do not give 10% or indeed do not give anything? For some it is a matter of spiritual understanding and maturity. We are all growing. Others understand that they should tithe, and they want to, but practical money-management issues seem to be preventing it. Sometimes we just need a simple, direct idea or instruction. Carolyn and I received exactly that many years ago while attending university in Houston. A preacher made it very clear that 10% belongs to God and that as Christians we should be intentional about managing our money so that was possible. His simple suggestion was this: Every time you receive income, e.g., every paycheck or however else you receive income, immediately write a check for 10% to the church. When paid “off the top” like this, the 10% never becomes part of the family budget. We began that practice immediately after that sermon and have continued it to this day. I tell the story in hope that it will be as useful to someone else as it was for us.

Not often, but once in a while, I hear a comment that Asbury’s budget is so large (approximately ten million dollars) that the modest gift of one person does not matter.

Each gift matters, I can assure you. Our church relies on the contributions of many, many people to support our ministries. Secondly, the primary point is to give out of obedience and gratitude whether or not they perceive their gift is “meaningful.” We remember the Bible story of the widow giving two small copper coins. Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.” Every incremental dollar that someone gives allows us to incrementally increase the influence of our ministries.

When talking about church finances I would be remiss if accountability were not addressed.

Asbury has a finance committee composed of unpaid Asbury members. The names of the members of that committee, along with those of other governance groups, are available on our website. Each month they review our financial reports. On a regular basis, they meet with me and Dean Hatch, our CFO, to discuss all aspects of our handling and expenditure of gifts. Every year the committee retains an outside auditing firm to do a thorough review of our processes and books. As members of the Asbury family, we are fortunate to have excellent financial management with accountability, auditing and transparency.

On behalf of Tom, our pastoral team, myself, the staff, and the lay leadership of Asbury, I want to thank you for supporting our ministries with your gifts and your service. Have a great Christmas season.

Dwight Yoder

Contents A Word From Tom Harrison Senior Adults Three Asburians We Are Following Outreach Out of Africa Crafting Christmas Back in the Meadow Sharing Our Christmas Blessings You’re a Christmas Baby!

When “AHA” Becomes “WOW!” Peter Mayer Our Gift to You Recipes of the Month Children Youth Grandpa John Opportunities Special Announcements

1 2 3 4 6 8 9 11 12 14 16 18 19 20 21 22 23 31

On the cover: Asbury’s unique nativity carved in Tanzania.

We need you! Do you have a story of what God has done in your life? Please contact us and tell us a little bit about what God has done. We will all be encouraged by hearing stories of what God is doing in the lives of those around us.

Are you a writer or someone who enjoys writing?

The Communications Department is always looking for someone to do an interview and write a story for us for Tidings.

Have you noticed that we’ve been making some changes in Tidings? Please give us your feedback— both good and bad. Email kmains@asburytulsa.org or call 918.392.1140.

Asbury Tidings is a monthly publications designed to tell stories of lives being transformed by the power of Jesus Christ. You may read back issues by visiting www.asburytulsa.org.

Editor: Asbury Communications Department, 918.392.1140, kmains@asburytulsa.org Graphic Design: Tim Jurgensen, tjurgensen@ asburytulsa.org Photographers: Chris Lo (matchadesign.com), Mark Moore (markmoore.photo.net) Guest Contributors: Christine Calbes-Salehy, Mark Fowler, Joan Henning, Diane King, Crystal LaGrone, Jim Lenderman, Kay Mains, Marty McBroom, Joanne Stadler, Earl Stutzman, John C. Westervelt

A Word From Tom Harrison I spoke about Asbury’s Mission statement last month: “Glorify God - Make Disciples.” That reflects our understanding that the Christian faith begins and ends with worship. That is the eternal joy of our faith. From that, the One with “all authority,” Jesus, commissioned us to go and make disciples. His words shape our mission.

There are three general ways we go about disciple-making.

Asbury’s Vision statement is an effort to help people practice the “3-B’s.” While not found in any precise sequential order, all three need to be present for us to have a complete and dynamic faith.

1.) BELONG. The Greek word “koinonia” describes “the fellowship.” When loved, accepted and forgiven, we know we’ve found a special place. We are empowered to learn and to serve. I believe that far more people are loved into the kingdom of God than preached into the kingdom. I think “belonging” usually goes before the other two “B’s” when it comes to being a disciple of Jesus.

2.) BELIEVE. The Greek word “kerygma” (or “didache”) refers to the essence and substance of faith. The Christian faith has a set of beliefs which form a doctrinal core. In C.S. Lewis’ wonderful book, Mere Christianity, he explained what he felt were the core doctrines of the faith. We don’t just believe in belief - we believe God’s fullest revelation was in Jesus Christ.

3.) BECOME (servants). The Greek word “diakonia” means “ministry.” We get the word “deacon” from this (Acts 6:3). We are told to go into the world in various ways to serve Christ. As Jesus himself said, “I did not come into the world to be served, but to serve.”

These are our “3-B’s.” There aren’t just two of them. For instance, if one “Belongs and Believes” (without “Becoming”) then one is self-absorbed and not missional. Jesus told us to “Go!” Jesus told us to “Serve!” To “Belong and Become” (without “Believe”) then the Christian faith is reduced to a civic organization without a true set of doctrinal beliefs. To “Believe and Become” (but doesn’t find a way to “Belong”) we can become egotistical and unaccountable. The essence of the faith is love (Belong).

Asbury tries to bring people together in an atmosphere of love, acceptance, and forgiveness. Deep and lasting friendships which nurture and support are formed within communities of faith. Opportunities to give oneself to Jesus Christ initially, and in an on-going way, are provided. Bible studies and small groups are helpful. We don’t keep this only within our group - we find ways to express that within our neighborhoods, community, city, state(s), and around the world.

If you’re looking for a 3-B Adult Discipleship Community, they are looking for you, too. Check out our website www.asburytulsa.org and hit the “community” tab. It will help you with this.

I can’t think of anything more valuable than having good friends, strong faith, and trusted places to serve. This is worth pursuing.

Dr. Tom Harrison, Sr. Pastor

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SENIOR ADULTS

Trees and Trimmings Touch Hearts at Walt Whitman

by Joanne Stadler “A new command I give you; Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34 NIV

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Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree” Doesn’t that bring back fond memories of angels, candy canes, stars, nativity scenes, and popcorn strings when each year we decorate our Christmas trees? As we share God’s love, while meeting needs of others, the Tweenagers (senior adults) have responded to the chance to share this joy through the acts of giving our talents, time and resources. Over the last several years we have donated two large, beautiful artificial trees to Walt Whitman and with fun and fellowship made Christmas ornaments for decorations.

You see one of these trees as you enter the school in the main hall next to the office. This is the “Angel Tree”. The teachers, counselors and parents have identified children (this year there were 50) whose families have found themselves in an emergency situation.

The staff and partner organizations have adopted one of these children to sponsor. The angel ornaments on this tree identify these children (no names) as to ages, sizes and items needed. With a monetary limit there is a strong suggestion this year to supply a uniform polo shirt (white, black, orange or gray), or a pair of black or khaki pants.

The second tree, a favorite with the students and the faculty, resides in the cafeteria for all to daily enjoy! The children help decorate the tree attaching the handmade ornaments created by the Tweenagers with their love tucked in. One is reminded of “the reason for the season” upon seeing figures of baby Jesus, bright stars, small manger scenes, crosses, crowns, wreaths and many more Christmas “Chrismons” (symbols of Jesus Christ made in the form of Christmas ornaments). Often Dick Loerke, Paula Goree and Carolyn Nixon can be seen as they assemble and place the trees in the front hall and the cafeteria. These Asbury volunteers also assist the students while they are attaching the decorations onto the trees.

Carolyn and Paula have worked in the school with the “Lunch Bunch” (monthly mentoring the children). Carolyn shared that she heard a student say, “Oh it is so beautiful!” One little guy asked, “Can I climb the ladder to put the star on top?” While they were decorating she heard a small girl say, “I want to put this doll ornament down low so Santa can see it.” The school counselor, Michealle Wasson, also shared the following: “It is amazing how much the children love this tree in the cafeteria! I’m surprised that they keep their hands off and simply stare and comment on the decorations while standing in line for lunch. The decorations are so meaningful, bright and cute, and we appreciate the love and fun that went along with making them. We do eagerly anticipate the new decorations to add this year! Our staff loves the spirit of Christmas and having the trees visually maintains this season of love and giving. I often hear them say, ‘Oh those people from Asbury, they are so good to us.’”

As we are blessed to be a blessing, it warms our hearts to know that we may continue to share His love with these children, demonstrating the impact of that love on our lives through this joyful opportunity to serve Him.

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Three Asburians We Are Following For One Year Christian: Lies Down the Hole You know life is good when you don’t even have enough time to share all the stories of how awesome God is. This week has been incredible though...as all weeks spent in intense pursuit of the Lord are if you can keep the right perspective.

I feel like we have had a lot of worship times on this trip now, and I have had a lot of quiet times where I have asked the Lord for just a bigger or deeper revelation of His love for me. He showed me my heart and let me see how much further I have fallen into relationship with Him over the past couple months.

One more story that is awesome. Last night, my teammate Kacie was in charge of feedback. She had each of us take a sheet of paper, then she gave us each a marker. We each wrote down lies that the enemy has been feeding to us over the past week or so. Some of them were lies that we have believed for a long time, others were just ones that we were sick of fighting. After we were finished writing them down, we each went around and read ours aloud to each other. The other five would speak truth to each of those lies!

After we were finished with going around the circle, we went as a group out to the squatty potty (hole in the ground with a wall around it which is our bathroom this month) and each took turns going to throw the sheets down the hole! Now whenever the satan (people in Moldova always put a “the” before “satan” which I have kind of adopted...he’s just a THING...a nasty thing) tries to speak these lies to us, we can just look him in the “face” and say, “hey, I know where that lie went!”

Next time I post, I’ll probably be on my way to Nepal.

Rachel: Fresh Out of Slavery The longer I am in South Asia, the more I realize the world’s desperate need for a Savior. God has been so faithful to me throughout this transitional phase, and I cannot wait to see what He has in store for me over the next nine months.

This past week was my first time working out in the field for Freedom Training with our clients who are former slaves. My job with several others was to assist with the children’s program. This was emotionally and physically exhausting but so rewarding. My heart overflowed with love for these kids. God was very gracious to me.

He filled my heart with so much love for these kids that I couldn’t help but hug them and constantly pray over their futures. I couldn’t look at the precious faces of these beautiful children without being reminded of Isaiah 61 and how faithful our God is.“The Spirit of

the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” This scripture became so real to me this past week. I kept looking at these villagers, fresh out of slavery, thinking “You were held in slavery just a month ago, and now you are free! You are rescued children of God with a future that you can choose!” I can’t even begin to grasp this concept. I can’t imagine the feelings and fears of these unforgettable laborers, as they are free for the first time in, for some, years. My heart physically ached for them as I heard countless stories of abuse and what life was like for these children that I was growing so fond of. They didn’t even have shoes.

Many don’t have houses. Some don’t even have parents. BUT they now have their freedom. They can dream of a future, knowing that it won’t consist of being stuck in a rice mill working 14 hour days. God is good and He desires the hearts of those children and their parents.

Please be praying for our clients and that may come to know Jesus in order to experience true healing

Kayla: Campus Evangelism I just want to thank you all again for your prayers and support that make it possible for me to be here this year to make Jesus known in Venezuela.

We have jumped into ministry here on campus at the University of Carabobo! I am currently working in the Engineering faculty and following up with the students who either accepted Christ this summer or may be interested in learning more about Jesus.

I have already had some pretty great conversations with students.

This week I shared the gospel with two friends, and they told me they wanted a relationship with God, but they were not ready to make that decision just yet. Yesterday, I also got to follow-up with two girls who were a little hesitant about Christianity because they thought they had to perform and follow all these rules.

I told them about the freedom they have in Christ and how through His grace, we are free to live for Him. Today, one of those girls, Marbelis, came to our campus-wide Bible study and ate with us afterwards. I can feel that she wants to be more involved and learn more about Jesus. I gave her a Spanish Bible, and I hope to keep meeting up with her on campus to get to know her better and to show her God’s love.

I am really excited to see what God has for my team and I this year in Valencia. As I am adjusting to the culture and to living in such close community, I can already see that God is going to work some miracles in my heart and in the hearts of Venezuelans.

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OUTREACH

Congo Bible Update

by Jim Lenderman

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n July we made another strategic distribution of Bibles in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. That month, 500 pastors and 500 lay leaders assembled for their annual conference (a gathering that included every pastor in the North Katanga Conference). Using funds given to the Congo Bible Initiative, we wired enough money to purchase 500 cases of native language Bibles . So for the first time in their country’s history, every United Methodist pastor has a Bible in their heart language as well as 15 more to distribute to their church and surrounding villages. We eagerly await the DVD they filmed of the distribution.

Thank you for your generous giving to the Congo Bible Initiative. God is using these funds to provide His Word to believers who desperately want it. We are genuinely making an eternal difference in the lives of our brothers and sisters in Christ there.

[The Congo Bible Initiative is an open fund. If you would like to contribute you may do so by indicating “Congo Bibles” on the check memo or offering envelope. For questions please contact pastor Jim Lenderman at jlenderman@asburytulsa.org]

Ten for Joplin

by Earl Stutzman

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t’s been an amazing several days here in Joplin. The first few days, we prepared the walls for all of the houses. There was a dedication service where all of us gathered. After praying, we moved to each of the houses.

When the time arrived for the wall raising, we heard a loud horn; walls for all ten houses were raised at the same time. What a spectacular event.

One of the four bedroom homes.

Today all of the houses were roofed by Tampco shingles company. They make asphalt shingles, and the plant is located somewhere here locally. All of the material and labor was donated by them.

I am supervising the Arvest Bank sponsored house. It is one of the seven threebedroom houses. I have had volunteers from Arvest every day and they told me that will be sending employees all week. They are coming from all over this area. Northeast Arkansas to Kansas City today and from the local banks. Some have made two trips to be involved.

I also have had a group of three ladies and ten men from the United Arab Emirates. They traveled 35 hours to get here to work all week. The country has also donated a lot of money to the high school in Joplin for computers as well as over $10 million for the rebuilding efforts.

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Looking east. The high school is on the left.

OUTREACH

Ten for Joplin continued It is amazing to see the co-ordination of the massive amount of material that is required for all of the house and extraordinary that the material arrives at the time we need it. There have, of course, been some glitches. Like the house across from my house.

When the roof truss package was delivered for the house across from my house, it was for a four bedroom house instead of their three bedroom house. But God was looking out for that house.

The supervisor was a young fellow from the Fayetteville Habitat affiliate who has been in construction for several years working his way through school. We ordered lumber, and he stick-built the whole roof and had it ready for the roofers today. We had over 400 volunteers on Saturday, just the right amount Sunday and today.

My brother Curt came from Pryor with six from his church. With their help, we finished putting up all the siding on Friday after four ladies installed all of the windows in the house. Saturday we put the

first coat of paint on the house and the second coat on Sunday. We were doing this while the sheetrock was being put on the walls inside.

Sunday morning they textured the walls in all of the houses finishing around 4 pm. They had a little problem with the mixing machine and couldn’t get it running. Since it was Sunday, they couldn’t get another machine to complete the job. One of the volunteers took a look at it, found a problem with the carburetor and was able to get it repaired with only a three hour delay. We needed to get all of the houses textured so they would be dry and be ready for painting. It was quite a sight with 20 people painting, masking and trying to put down trim all at the same time. After the all rooms were painted with two coats of paint, we put down the base trim and installed the doors. We were even able to help with one of the other builds.

Right now all the houses are pretty much on schedule and should be completed on time. This will allow all the new homeowners to be in their homes before Thanksgiving. It will be a Thanksgiving they will always remember.

Looking south down the street.

Two Habitat houses (the blue house and the tan house behind the pickup).

The high school and Franklin Technical School have not been cleaned up. Special clean up is required due to asbestos.

This is the house I supervised. It was sponsored by Arvest Bank.

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Out of Africa

by Marty McBroom Have you been wondering about the beautiful nativity scene located in the main foyer by the double doors leading into the sanctuary? If you thought it looked like it came straight out of Africa, you are right! One of Asbury’s mission teams to Tanzania brought it back in 2008. The pieces were so large, usually only one piece could be packed into a person’s luggage; thus, many people were involved in getting it transported back to its new home at Asbury.

Pastor Dick Read, after seeing the small nativities that people were bringing back from the medical mission trips to Africa, wanted to look into getting a large one carved so it could be displayed at Asbury during Advent. The missionaries in Tanzania were contacted, and the wood carver was asked to do a special set for Asbury. It had to be large to even be noticed in our sanctuary, but the carver was up to the task.

Our own Earl Stutzman built the stable to go with the set. Earl cut the grass here at Asbury. When he got ready to use it the next morning, instead of being straight as it was when he cut it, all the edges were curled. He used it anyway, and what a beautiful effect it made.

The area in and around Morogoro, Tanzania, is where Asbury sends its medical missions teams along with its water well teams. They minister mainly to the Kami people and the Maasai. This area is where many team members had previously purchased wood carvings from a man named Hilary.

Marty McBroom and Mary Ann Smith

Hilary learned woodcarving from his father, Markus Mwidingi, who was a well-known wood carver. Hilary’s mom was his dad’s second of four wives; he had 19 children altogether.

This, of course, indicates that Hilary is, in all probability, from a Muslim background.

Muslims in that area are not typically extremists. In fact his dad did a large cruciform figure of Christ for Wartburg College, an Evangelical Lutheran college in Waverly, Iowa, and also supplied carvings to the Benedictines. Hilary only attended school through 7th grade because his father could not afford for him to go further. Since he was no longer in school, Markus began teaching his 12 year old son the art of woodcarving. Hilary helped his father supply carvings to the Benedictines.

Hilary is now about 35 years old and is considered a master wood carver in his own right.

The African woods used in carving our beautiful nativity pieces are mtinga, which is a type of mahogany, and the heads and hands are believed to be ebony. He is excited that his work is being written about in a church magazine and is eager to post our Tidings in his little shop. The Asbury witness will be seen by many more in Tanzania!

You will be blessed to view this beautiful nativity.

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The African woods used in carving our beautiful nativity pieces are mtinga, which is a type of mahogany, and the heads and hands are believed to be ebony.

Hilary Mwidingi

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Crafting Christmas

by Kay Mains

M

erry Christmas! I have a gift for you! Who doesn’t enjoy hearing those words? But if you are in a nursing home or no longer able to drive, the cheery voice you hear is as much a blessing as the gift itself.

For the past 40 years, Ethel Hubbard has been creating Christmas sacks for members of Asbury who can no longer attend services.

Although the list changes each year, there are usually about 100 people on it. Some are in nursing homes. Some cannot drive.

Others simply can’t walk all the way from the parking lot. All need to know they are still loved.

It all started 40 years ago when the UMW was hosting Christmas bazaars. Ethel had a table there to sell some of her creations, and someone came by asking if she had anything she could sell to them for $1.00. “Even way back then,” Ethel comments, “a dollar didn’t buy very much, and we didn’t generally make 100 of any one item.”

The lady told her she wanted to have something to give to the elderly and shut-ins. These people were the foundation of Asbury when it was still a young church, and now, it appeared, some were being forgotten. Ethel’s heart was touched; she knew she had the time and talent to help. She could utilize her gift of helping others.

Each year, Ethel scours craft shows in the area for ideas to create small gifts. Some years, it is very difficult to come up with

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something fairly inexpensive. Because there are so many gifts to make, and she is still a full time realtor, Ethel has to begin creating gifts in September. Her past gifts have included clay pot soldiers, glass angels, snow globes, and even a sleigh made entirely of candy. This year, she has created candles using toilet tissue rolls.

The decorated bags she uses are purchased after Christmas each year and are designed to be reusable by the recipients. In midDecember, volunteers from the church come to help her assemble the bags and bring cookies and candy to include in the bags.

Marilyn Smith makes bookmarks from old Christmas cards to include as well. David Thomas writes a letter so that each person receiving the package knows that it came from Asbury. The Christmas sacks are stored at the church until the care-givers pick them up before Christmas.

Ethel is in her 80’s now and still going strong. She is praying for God to send her a helper, someone to train for this ministry. She says “nobody wants to put the time in anymore” to create gifts. In the meantime, she doesn’t want anyone to be forgotten. And, as she says, “the more I give, the more I receive.”

If you are interested in helping Ethel, please contact the church office at 918.492.1771.

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by Joan Henning

T.K. and Betty Nollan enjoy having the Mosaic community over for a picnic and pumpkin carving every fall. They have a beautiful meadow with a creek running through it down a slope behind their house – the perfect fall setting.

In October, 2010 on the eve of the annual event, Betty learned her son had taken his life. The picnic was cancelled and the entire community was grieving and praying for Betty and T. K. The loss of a child is devastating for any parent and the circumstances compounded the suffering.

We, as a community, felt so helpless, wanting to provide comfort, but at the same time, honor their need to grieve privately. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says “Therefore encourage one another and build up one another” and continues in verse 17 to say “pray without ceasing” so

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that is exactly what we did. We prayed continuously for them. Betty and her husband knew they were covered in prayer. Within a few days, Betty felt God had answered all our prayers.

To Betty’s knowledge, her son Mitch was not a believer even though he had been baptized. She had prayed earnestly and fervently for his salvation for many years, but never knew if that transformation had taken place. A few days after his death, Jesus spoke to her about trusting Him and told her Mitch was healed and was with Him now. He told her that as much as she loved Mitch, He loved him even more. It was a tremendous relief to know that Mitch was with the Lord.

This has been an awesome experience of answered prayer. Betty’s prayer that Mitch receive salvation was answered. And the prayers of the Mosaic Community and many others for Betty and T.K. to feel God’s comfort in their time of sorrow were also answered.

Knowing Mitch’s eternal destiny was the greatest comfort possible.

This year on the first anniversary of her loss, Betty was at Camp Egan for a ladies retreat with Mosaics and a few other Asbury ladies, where her spirit was fed and she found serenity in God’s creation at the camp. One week later, she and T.K. once again hosted the picnic and pumpkin carving in their meadow.

God is faithful. After only one year, Betty is willing to talk about God’s faithfulness during that period of tragedy and loss within their family. God often uses His people to surround us during hard times, encouraging and praying for one another. Never underestimate the power of your prayers and your encouragement.

Betty understands first hand how powerful they are.

As often happens with loss, there is new life. Betty was blessed with her first grandchild in September. Noah Gomez-Meade was born September 8th to Carley, Mitch’s younger sister, and Betty was able to spend three weeks with her daughter and new grandson in Miami, Florida.

SUICIDE PREVENTION TIPS

There is typically an increase in suicides from November through January.

More and more people are utilizing social media to signal their distress, saying good-bye or leaving instructions to “friends” but especially those within their “social” network to the neglect of the more traditional few family members, church staff and counselors.

Consequently, the people who might normally be sensitive to such signals and respond are often now outside the loop.

Our challenge is to come alongside a suicidally depressed person and actively listen. Do not be afraid to openly talk about suicide and the accompanying feelings. You can help begin to break the cycle of thinking that leads them to thoughts of despair and that no one cares; especially if you can have open and frank one on one and small group discussions. Ask leading questions like, “Have you ever considered looking at your situation from this or that perspective or alternative points of view?”

Do not ask the person why. It causes them to be defensive. Ask other questions as a delay tactic. “What’s going on?” “Have you considered …(alternative solution)”.

The old adage: If you talk about suicide you’re more likely to encourage some to commit the act is just not true. The more we talk openly about suicide, those contemplating the act experience a release of built-up pressure because they begin to feel that they can safely express their own feelings, thoughts and fears to a “safe” person or group.

If you would like to discuss this topic with a pastor, call Rev. Charlie Ryser at 918.492.1771.

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by Christine Calbes-Salehy

Being born on Christmas Day has always been special to me because my parents made a big deal about how exciting it was to share a birthday with Jesus Christ. As I look through old albums, it seemed like we always had a party at our house for our huge extended family on Christmas day because it was also my birthday. The nice thing about having a Christmas birthday is that all my relatives know the exact date of my birthday. No one has ever forgotten it the way that I have forgotten some of theirs through the years.

As far as presents are concerned, it did not occur to me then that I “missed out” on “separate” birthday and Christmas presents until I moved to the United States a few days before my thirteenth birthday in 1986. You see, I led a very sheltered life prior to moving here, partly because of the way my parents raised me, as well as the things I learned from the Catholic (Benedictine) school that I attended in the Philippines. Moving to another country, with my sheltered upbringing, opened my eyes to the world of commercialized Christmas. I am not saying that the folks in the Philippines do not have a commercialized Christmas, (they do); it is just that my parents and I did not celebrate it that way!

From a very young age, we celebrated Christmas by sharing our blessings with our family and those in need. Similarly, I was greatly influenced by my school because the Christmas season meant collecting food and clothing for the needy as well as participating in newspaper-drives to raise money to give to families who lived in the squatter areas near the school.

Being in solidarity with the poor year-round was a big deal. In fact, I remember my five year old giving away our milk to an extremely poor family whom she befriended who lived outside our subdivision because she found out that they did not have any in their make-shift house. Imagine our mother’s surprise when she questioned us about why the milk disappeared! Soon thereafter, other food items disappeared as well. To this day, my mom smiles when she fondly recalls those incidents.

For the remainder of my adolescent years in California, I had ambivalent feelings about my birthday because people outside my family started questioning me how I felt when someone gave me a combined Christmas/birthday present. I became confused.

Likewise, I was shocked by the amount of presents I saw not just under, but surrounding the Christmas trees of homes I visited. It was just different to what I was accustomed.

I finally came to terms with it after I moved to Oklahoma and realized what I missed. I got married and had a child. Memories of my childhood Christmas/birthdays reminded me of the joy I felt when I was not being selfish. As hackneyed as it may sound, it truly is better to give than receive. I introduced the world of volunteerism to my husband. In addition, every Christmas we “adopt” a child through the Angel Tree Program. When my son was three years old, he helped select gifts for a little boy we “adopted.” I shall always remember him sitting in the shopping cart and wiggling like crazy because he saw a shirt that had a monkey on it and then he squealed, “Mommy, Joshua will love this!” My son is now five years old, and he is aware of others out there who need our help. He willingly and joyfully puts aside his toys and books that he has outgrown to be given to other children. I sincerely hope and pray that he will continue the legacy that my parents have given me. I also hope that I do a great job of continuing to teach him that Christmas and his mom’s birthday is about spending time with family and helping others, not just in December, but also throughout the year.

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Bill Ritchie All my life when I would give my birth date, people’s eyes would light up and they’d say “You’re a Christmas baby!” This made me feel special. I also must admit that I enjoyed receiving twice as many gifts for my birthday! My all time favorite gift was a radio so that I could listen to the Boston Red Sox games. That was such a treat!

My most memorable birthday was when I turned 18 years old way back in 1946. I was on guard duty in the Italian Alps during WW2. The temperature was freezing, and I was as well. “Memorable” does not always mean the memories were happy, but I will never forget that time of my life.

Barbara Hovland All of my birthdays are special because I celebrate them with Jesus. The more birthdays I have, the better they are.

I had a very special birthday last year. Shortly before Christmas, one of my grandsons graduated from the College of Engineering at Central Florida University. Two days later, he was commissioned in the Air Force as a 2nd lieutenant in flight training, then three days later, he got married. While we were there, my husband and I were also able to celebrate Christmas as well as my birthday with our three children, their spouses, and our eight grandchildren at my daughter’s and her husband’s home in Tampa, Florida.

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It was a wonderful birthday and a wonderful Christmas, and I felt truly blessed.

Growing up, I didn’t really have birthday parties, but then most people back then didn’t celebrate like they do today. Because my parents were in business with a hardware and variety store, we were always busy wrapping presents for others before Christmas.

J.T. (Joyce) Carter My birthdays have not always been a great experience.

Everyone is so busy celebrating Christmas that you don’t get to have a “real” birthday. But I had three very memorable exceptions.

When I was 47 years old, I had a group of very good girlfriends who gave me a surprise birthday party in September. They told me the celebration was for another friend. When I arrived, I was totally and completed surprised and began crying.

When I turned 60, my family gave me a party at a Thanksgiving gathering. That was a very enjoyable time as well.

My only other birthday party was when I was 12 years old. My mother and a group of neighbors planned a birthday party for me in early December, before classes let out for the holidays. I invited girls from school, had birthday presents and even a birthday cake.

My mother told me she was very proud to have had a Christmas baby. It was very special to her.

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Many people have said to me “aren’t you lucky, you get to share a birthday with Jesus!?” I ask them if they want to trade birthdays with me. So far, no takers. There is just no competing with Jesus!

Faila Rice My Christmas birthday has always been special. My mother saw to it that I always had a big birthday cake and extra presents.

My husband usually fixed Christmas dinner: ham, mashed potatoes and a big spread. In my defense, I always made family favorite dishes like heavenly salad and chocolate pie desert the day before; and I usually hosted a big Thanksgiving dinner.

Christmas has always been my favorite time of year. I love the songs of the season, Christmas plays, musicals and parties.

It’s a bubbly , happy time when everybody radiates love. I enjoy fixing Christmas surprises for others and I take pleasure in being surprised, myself. Once my husband put a brick in a pair of ice skates so I couldn’t figure out what it was. (He knew I liked to shake and inspect the presents.)

One of my delights for the last several years has been Pastor Tom calling me on Christmas to wish me a Happy Birthday.

Asbury has been the only church where my pastor has taken the time from his busy schedule and family to honor me in such a special way.

My mother and father have both passed on in the last year and a half and my husband about five years ago. This Christmas they will

celebrate with Jesus. I celebrate this joyous time with great anticipation. A Christmas birthday is like any other, a wonderful day.

Donna Wunch I have always felt a special connection to Jesus and the Christian faith because of the birthday I share with Jesus. Every birthday is a special one to me. Over time the faces of family and friends have changed as have the circumstances of my life, but each birthday has been it’s own celebration of a special time in my life. Mom always told me that she felt I was a very special little girl because I shared my birthday with Jesus and all the world wide celebration of his birth that happens at Christmas time. My closest and most dear friend, Candy Steiler, also has a Christmas birthday. While we share many common interests, the first thing we discovered that we had in common was a Christmas birthday! From that point our connection to one another has grown into a lifetime friendship that also shares this one awesome event.

As a child I would celebrate my birthday with family right along with Christmas; the doubling up on presents was wonderful!

Then because my friends were not able to celebrate with me, Mom would plan a “summertime” birthday party for me so that my classmates and neighborhood friends could celebrate with me. At the time I am sure that some of them were a bit confused as to why we were having a party when my birthday was either several months past or several months in the future. Either way it was wonderful for me!

In my adult life I have noticed that there is always a bit of added recognition when folks hear that my birthday falls on Christmas Day. Many people think it is wonderful to have a birthday on such a special day, and I can tell by the sparkle in their eye that they wonder what it is like to have a Christmas birthday. I am quick to let them know that I feel special, wonderful, amazed and very much a part of that special day we call Christmas!!!

Russ Arnold Growing up as a “Christmas baby” had its advantages and its drawbacks.

As a kid, my parents did a great job of separating our normal Christmas celebrations and my birthday celebration. In fact, my best friend growing up was born on December 25th as well, so we had joint half birthday parties in the summer. This worked out well since a lot of our friends traveled on Christmas break, and a pool party was a lot more fun than doing something indoors. As I get have gotten older, I have begun to think less and less about having a Christmas birthday, but it has always been something I have enjoyed.

Over the years, the fun from sharing a birthday with Jesus outshines all the joint birthday and Christmas presents.

Jake McMurray I really enjoy sharing my birthday with Jesus. My best friends think having a birthday on Christmas is really cool. Other people don’t believe me when I tell them that my birthday is on Christmas.

I have had a few half birthday parties in the summer, but most of the time we celebrate my birthday on Christmas in the evenings so that we can make Christmas morning about the entire family. The exception was my 10th birthday. When I woke up, my room was all decorated for my birthday.

The advantage to having a Christmas birthday is obvious—you get double presents all at the same time! (My favorite present was an Xbox 360!) The disadvantage is that your birthday is sometimes forgotten because there is so much going on with Christmas.

My mother says she feels very blessed to have had a child born on the same date as our Savior. And I must admit that I feel very special to share my birth date with Jesus.

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Celebrities who have Christmas birthdays include: –– Humphrey Bogart (1899) He was Rick from “ Casablanca,” Sam Spade from “The Maltese Falcon,” Fred C. Dobbs from “The Treasure of the Sierra Madre,” Charlie Allnut from “The African Queen” and so many other great movie characters.

–– Sir Isaac Newton (1642) Brilliant scientific mind who nonetheless could not dodge a falling apple.

–– Jimmy Buffett (1946) Singer-songwriter, author, entrepreneur and film producer.

–– Sissy Spacek (1949) Oscar-winning actress and noted Charlottesville native.

–– Rickey Henderson (1958) Stole more bases, scored more runs than any player in baseball history.

–– Robert Ripley (1890) Believe it or not.

–– Cab Calloway (1907) Legendary jazz singer and bandleader, and master of energetic scat singing –– Rod Serling (1924) “You’re traveling through another dimension, a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind; a journey into a wondrous land whose boundaries are that of imagination.

That’s the signpost up ahead. Your next stop: The Twilight Zone.”

–– Clara Barton (1821) Civil War nurse known as the mother of the American Red Cross.

–– Anwar el-Sadat (1918) Egyptian president from 1970-1981 –– Pope Pius VI (1717) Born Count Giovanni Angelo Braschi, Pope from 1775 to 1799

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by Diane King

Sometimes people can sit in a church all their life and just not “get it.” God can be working around them to get their attention, but they don’t see it. But the Lord is “patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.” (II Peter 3:9) Tom Kurzyna can tell you all about that. He heard many messages at the Catholic church he attended while growing up in Colorado but never really got the connection of what it had to do with his own life.

He moved to Tulsa when he was nineteen years old, met and married his wife, who was a faithful churchgoer. Shortly after they had their first child baptized, they changed to a Methodist church, which Tom only attended occasionally. As is the case with many young men, he had a hard time swallowing anything he couldn’t see or prove. He just didn’t “get it.”

Years later his daughter, Robin, started attending Asbury’s youth group as a junior high school student. Soon his wife Mary joined her in attending worship. They both seemed to become very different people as a result. “It was like they were on the inside of something good, and I was left out on the outside,” Tom recalls. Just about the time Asbury opened the new Venue68 and the Sunday morning worship at 11:00 am there, Tom decided to start attending, as well.

“I walked in to that service, and I immediately felt this was different. The people were so warm and accepting. There was no judgment at Asbury.”

He began to hear about a Habitat House build in which Asbury was going to participate. Something sparked an interest in him. “Here is something I can do, and maybe I can learn some skills from it.”

He opened the door of his heart a tiny crack.

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“I realized that I wanted to be around this kind of people – people of faith. I wanted to change my focus to helping others.”

He showed up for that Habitat build, and it changed his life.

“You just can’t believe how different these people were from what I was used to. There was something really special about that whole build. Rob and Kori Neely, Lindsey and Rustin Heflin (none of whom were married yet at that time), even the homeowner and the kids, just the way they acted and talked, they were just great. I saw Rustin come off that roof with a whole load of shingles coming down behind him, and he got up and just walked away. God was so evident in so many ways on that build, I just can’t describe it.”

God widened the opening to his heart.

“I began to realize that I wanted to be around this kind of people – people of faith. I wanted to change my focus to helping others. I wanted to change my life.”

Shortly after the build was completed, Tom was sitting on his couch one Sunday evening, and he began praying to God, “Lord, I know you want me to do something with my life. I know there is more. Tell me what that is.”

The very next day, Betty Higgins called and told him about a new community outreach project Asbury was starting called “Second Saturday.” She asked him to work with her on it.

UMC, getting to know Chris Beach (pastor of Wesley) and the relationship with those people. They’re just so thankful. Most of the congregation is elderly and can’t do the physical work needed.”

Tom and other volunteers provide the labor for cleaning, organizing, mowing the grounds, whatever is needed to help these smaller churches. They have also helped in other ways, like helping to start a men’s group.

“It’s great all the work we do in places like Guatemala, etc. [But] you don’t have to leave Tulsa to find someone who needs help.

There is something for everybody [to do].”

“Once you finally make that connection [with God], there is no going back. I’m now involved in the LinC community, my life has changed, things have happened, and you see God working in all aspects. We are starting up a small group at work.”

“I always felt I was in control of my life. Now I know better! Now I am saying, ‘God, You’re going to do whatever You want, and I’m just going to go with it!’”

“I don’t know where it all leads, but I can’t go back!”

After hearing his story, all one can wish for is to join him.

“You don’t have to leave Tulsa to find someone who needs help. There is something for everybody [to do].”

“It was like that was my ‘God Moment.’ I suddenly realized all the times God had tried to get my attention, but I kept missing it! God had been there all along. I never expected God to answer my prayer so quickly…Now I really ‘got it’!”

God opened Tom’s eyes and took over his heart.

Tom was there working on that first “Second Saturday” local outreach event in February of 2009, and he hasn’t missed one since.

He had hip replacement surgery this past August, but he still made it to the next “Second Saturday!”

According to Tom, things have just kept getting better. He can hardly talk about it without his voice breaking.

“The people of Asbury are so great, they make me feel so comfortable.

I’ve gotten to know Todd (Craig) and Spencer (Smith), all kinds of people I can talk to about anything. Mark, Marsha, Todd, Amy (youth team), Betty (Higgins), Lanette (Celoni), they’re all just wonderful.”

As for finding ways to serve, Tom is passionate about that, too. “I so enjoy serving on Second Saturday [where we are] helping Wesley

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Peter Mayer Peter Mayer will be performing at Asbury’s Venue68 on Friday, December 16, at 7 pm. Peter will be performing his Stars & Promises, Echoes of Christmas Concert.

Guitarist, vocalist and songwriter, Peter Mayer has been quietly and steadily building a fervent following across the country, stepping outside his role as one of Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefers to front his own band, The Peter Mayer Group. Melding a unique and eclectic writing style, a distinctive voice, and virtuoso musicianship, Peter and his band create compelling and accessible music that is electrifying in live performance.

L I T T L E

F L O C K

M U S I C

P R E S E N T S

Peter Mayer

STARS ECHOES OF CHRISTMAS 2011

Stars and Promises concert will feature Christmas songs.

The concert will celebrate traditional carols, such as “Oh Come Oh Come Emmanuel,” “Angels We Have Heard On High,” “The Little Drummer Boy,” and others. They are performed with fresh arrangements, incorporating a variety of stylistic influences from classical (“Christmas Overture”), folk (“Sing Joy”), popular (“This Christmas”) and jazz (“What Child Is This”).

In the Stars and Promises concert, Mayer has added the sounds of Native American wood flute, piano, percussion from around the world, and a string trio to the distinctive acoustic guitar and vocal work.

How did you get involved with Asbury?

Tulsa has become a regular stop on our tours because of the dear friends we have met along the way. We would not be in Tulsa were it not for the invitations we have received to come and play. My friends, Christine and Howard Boos invited us to play our annual Stars and Promises concert at Kirk of The Hills Presbyterian Church here years ago. Through the Boos’s we met Mike and Susan Burkhart, Pastor Tom Harrison, and many other Asbury friends. We were invited to play our “Stirrin’ Up The Water” concert in the sanctuary at Asbury, and now for the past two years have performed at Asbury’s 6-8 venue.

Join us this year for a Christmas celebration like no other! www.petermayer.com

Chris Walters

Mark Holland

Peter Mayer

How long have you been performing at Asbury?

Maggie Estes

Marc Torlina

R.Scott Bryan

Friday, December 16 7:00 pm (doors open at 6:30 pm) Venue68

Tickets $15.00 at the door or online at itickets.com or Mardel bookstore

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We were invited to play our “Stirrin’ Up The Water” concert in the sanctuary at Asbury, and now for the past two years have performed at Asbury’s Venue 68.

We feel blessed to have experienced your community at Asbury. We always feel welcomed, and appreciated.

That is a hospitality that people don’t forget. The experiences we’ve had there are heart warming, meaningful and at times crazy and hilarious. One

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such situation was with an old RV that we used in the early years.

On the show day at Asbury, it broke down right in the parking lot, perfectly stretched across the main throughway for cars. We finally managed to get it pulled over and out of the way. I showered at church, barely in time for our performance and walked out in front of the crowd, with still dripping hair, and said; “if it looks like I’m a little wet behind the ears it’s because I just got out of the shower”.

Why did you start doing a Christmas tour?

I grew up in India, son of missionary parents there. Christmas was a time of year I loved, with the singing, the trimming of the tree, and the telling of Christ’s birth once again. It was an old tradition, but came alive and new each year. Many years later when I had gotten started and going with the music career, I had a pastor friend who suggested that I write a Christmas piece for the yearly Christmas Eve service. I obliged, and after a few years I found I had enough Christmas songs for an album. Along with my brother Jim, who I have to thank for the support, expertise and vision, we recorded the work entitled, “Stars and Promises”. In 2000 we had our first “official” Stars and Promises tour, and we just celebrated the 10th anniversary last year. We’re happy to say that since almost the very beginning, Tulsa has been a stop on our Christmas tour.

Greatest passion?

Oh boy, I guess I think of a person’s “passion” as that thing, ideal, belief, or love of something that is part of you after all the “strings and things” of a day, or your life fall away. Three things come to mind, First,I’m passionate about the fact that God’s grace has lifted me up daily, and allowed me to live this life with the beauty, tragedy, and wonder of being blessed each day. That leads naturally to the people in my life, and I think first of my two children, and my wonderful wife of 25 years. They have taught me more about living then anything I’ve ever done. And last, but certainly not least, the way that I’ve been shown, since the time I was old enough

to hear my mother sing, to share these blessings in my life, is through my passion for music. I have a song that includes the line; “ Sometimes it’s just a smile that makes your day, Sometimes a song can save your life” I feel honestly that music has saved my life in the sense of providing a spark,a sense of hope when shadows are long and strong.

Your favorite Christmas memories?

Many come from my time in India, when the weather was hot, but we simulated midwestern snow on the tree by placing cotton on the branches. One christmas, my parents miscounted in the gift count between us eight children, and yours truly was left out. I cried, and my dad ran into his office to make make shift gifts out of old junk he had laying around. I was the only 5 year old I knew with a butane lighter. (My mother did not appreciate that one, but It sparked but did not flame of course) How do you celebrate Christmas with your family?

We used to get together with the Mayer tribe up in St. Louis for Christmas Eve. The numbers grew to a point where we longed for our own family Christmas in Nashville, our home town now. We have started to spend Christmas Eve and day with just the four of us. We go to an early Christmas Eve service at church. When we get home we read Luke 2, the Christmas story. We open a big book of letters that my parents wrote to their parents while in India and read through a couple. That seems to connect us to our heritage through generations, especially since my father had passed away by the time my kids were born. Finally, (after much fidgeting from our kids (no matter the age) we open a few gifts on Christmas Eve, and then the rest on Christmas day. I look forward to it once again in 2011, as I do to returning to Asbury to Sing Joy once again.

Sacred Songs by Ben & Noelle CD Review Although God is as close as a whisper, there are times in our lives that we need to be reminded that “God is BIG enough.” For some in our church family, you may not be familiar with Ben and Noelle Kilgore. Allow me to introduce them to you. The husband and wife duo lead worship in our Venue PM Service, and recently they released their first studio album.

Album available on iTunes. Also at the Gazebo and Venue68 for $10. This would be a great Christmas gift.

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Merry Christmas

from Virginia, Susan and Kelly

Our Gift to You Asbury’s Famous Cinnamon Rolls DOUGH:

INSTRUCTIONS:

3 cups flour ¼ cup sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 package dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons) 1 1/2 cups warm water 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

1. In a food processor with dough attachment or stand mixer with dough hooks, mix the flour, sugar, salt and yeast until well blended.

2. Add water and oil while the processor/mixer is running. Mix the dough until it starts pulling away from the side of the bowl and has a satin sheen to it (2-3 minutes in the processor or 10 minutes in the mixer). May have to add a little more flour. Dough should be tacky to touch.

3. Place the dough on a floured countertop and knead several times.

4. Place the dough in a large greased bowl and cover with plastic warp.

5. Allow the dough to sit on the counter for about 1 hour or until double in size. You can also place the dough in the refrigerator overnight and allow to rise slowly.

6. Remove the dough from the bowl to a floured countertop and roll out to a 12x18 inch rectangle.

7. Smear the filling over the surface.

8. Roll from the 18 inch side to form a log.

9. Cut into 12 pieces (1 ½ inches each) 10. Place in a 9x13 inch greased pan.

11. Allow to rise for 1 hour or until double in size. Can be made the night before and covered with plastic wrap and placed in the refrigerator. Will still have to rise on the counter before baking.

12. Preheat oven to 350 degrees while the dough is rising.

13. Bake for 15 – 20 minutes or until golden brown.

14. Spread icing over the top while warm.

15. Enjoy warm with family and friends.

FILLING: ¼ cup melted butter 2/3 cup brown sugar 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon (mix together)

ICING: 2 tablespoons melted butter 2 tablespoons milk 2 cups powdered sugar ½ teaspoon vanilla (mix together)

Makes two dozen

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RECIPES OF THE MONTH

The following recipes are taken from the Asbury UMW Cookbook. Copies of the cookbook can be purchased for $20 at the gazebo on Sundays or at the front office. Proceeds support Asbury’s church projects, scholarship program, and local and global missions.

Egg and Sausage Breakfast Muffin Cups 1 lb. sausage 1 doz. eggs ½ onion, finely chopped ½ can chopped green chilies (or more)

½ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. black pepper ¼ tsp. garlic powder ½ c. shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Brown sausage until no longer pink. In a large bowl, beat eggs. Then add onion, green chilies, salt, pepper and garlic power. Stir in sausage and cheese. Mix well. Spoon by 1/3 cupfuls into greased muffin cups or use paper muffin liners.

Bake at 350⁰ for 25 minutes or until knife in center comes out clean. Can cover, refrigerate and bake next morning.

Submitted by Carole Greaves

Candy Cane Cookies ½ c. shortening 2 ½ c. flour ½ c. butter or margarine 1 tsp. salt 1 c. powdered sugar Red food coloring 1 egg 1/3 c. sugar 1 ½ tsp. almond extract 2 candy canes, crushed 1 tsp. vanilla Preheat oven to 375⁰. In large mixing bowl, mix together shortening, butter, powdered sugar, egg, almond extract and vanilla. Add flour and salt. Mix thoroughly. Divide dough into 2 parts. Add a few drops of red food coloring to one half of dough until desired color is reached. Chill dough to firm up.

Roll 1 tablespoon of dough between palms to form rope from each color (red and white). Twist ropes together and lay on cookie sheet in shape of a candy cane. Repeat with remaining dough.

Bake at 375⁰ for 9 minutes. Remove cookies from oven. Mix sugar with crushed candy canes. Sprinkle over hot cookies. Cool and serve.

Submitted by Laurie Smith: “As a little girl, I always got excited on the day we were going to make Christmas cookies! This recipe came from my mother and it was a tradition to bake them for the holidays. I always helped twist the red and white dough together! They are one of my very favorite Christmas cookie recipes because of the almond extract flavoring. The dough can be made ahead and kept in the refrigerator until the day you wish to bake them. The dough is more manageable to handle when chilled. Perhaps other families will enjoy them as part of their Christmas family tradition like our family has!”

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CHILDREN

I Am Perfectly Blessed!

by Crystal LaGrone You may have seen the blue shirts with the logo “Perfectly Blessed” emblazoned on the front. I notice them now as I walk through church on Sundays and Wednesdays. This is the children’s ministry’s Christmas mission project. This is the fundraiser that supports one of Asbury’s missions in Estonia.

Agape Church, our sister church in Pärnu, Estonia, began partnering with Asbury in 2007 to bring Christmas gifts to the children in their congregation. “Our aim is to bring together children who have a connection with our church and give them the real meaning of Christmas,” says Külli Kuusemma from Agape church. The members of the church put on a play for the children about the birth of Jesus and God’s love. They also have a party with singing, prayer, a small craft, and gifts.

This mission project has special meaning for the children’s ministry as well, one of their teachers travelled to Estonia during the past summer. Abby Sluice was a part of the mission team that participated in the VBS at Agape Church. She brought back her experiences with the children in Estonia and is able to speak first-hand about what the mission means to the children there.

“We made it more real, and the kids (from Asbury) became more vested,” Abby said. She created PowerPoint slides to update the Sunday school classes on how the fundraiser was progressing. She also included information about Estonia and personal photos with the children there. “Before we would remind the kids each week to bring this or we are collecting money for that…what was great about this year was there was staff that had just been there, and we were able to make it more personal,” Abby said.

The Music Department is also assisting with the fundraiser by using the shirt in their Christmas pageant. Marti Morris, children’s music ministry director, explains, “This year our children’s Christmas pageant is about a girl named Holly who has launched a toy and food drive for the needy. One of the songs the children will sing is ‘Blessed to Be a Blessing.’ When I heard, the song, I immediately thought of the Perfectly Blessed t-shirts the children’s ministry was selling to raise funds for our sister church in Estonia.”

The children’s Christmas pageant will be held on December 4th at 6:00 pm.

My family joined Asbury several years ago, and I recall seeing the children’s ministry all sporting their brightly-colored t-shirts.

This, I thought, was just so parents could easily find someone if they needed assistance. I noticed some of the kids wore them too.

I never made the connection. Now, I know what it is all about.

When I finally connected that these fun blue shirts were going to bless the children that I too had met in Estonia, I had to have one!

Make that two!

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YOUTH

Fall Retreat and Small Groups

by Mark Fowler

J

r. High Students can change the world” is something that I say over and over again and have for many years. I firmly believe that God works in the lives of teenagers and God works through the lives of teenagers to impact the world. Through our small group ministry and through fall retreat, students are experiencing God and learning what it means to follow Jesus. They can tell you better than I can, so here are some quotes from our Junior High students about fall retreat and small groups.

Matt: “When we were worshipping at fall retreat, for the first time in awhile I felt God again. You get that unexplainable feeling; it almost feels like someone is wrapping their arms around you in almost protection maybe. This student ministry has meant a lot because it’s the first time I’ve ever really accepted and felt God.” Mallory: “Fall retreat has taught me a lot about myself. It was a great experience.

I built a strong friendship with the girls in my cabin, and strengthened my relationship with the Lord. The worship is unforgettable, and the lessons are eye opening. One quote that I really liked from this weekend was that ‘God is bigger than our fears.’ So we give it all to him! I wish fall retreat was every weekend! The memories I made there will always be on my heart.”

Maddie: “Fall retreat taught me that even though I’m young, I can change the world.

1 Timothy 4:12 says to be an example to all believers. Before fall retreat, I was a follower of God, but now I try and show it through my actions and words to set an example. That weekend, I strengthened my friendships and my relationship with the Lord. I always think to myself, why can’t every weekend be like fall retreat? I realized I don’t have to be in a cabin away from home to recreate the mood of fall retreat. God is moving just as much in my life today as he was then. I am so thankful to have learned those lessons.”

Natalie: “Before fall retreat, I thought I knew pretty much everything about God. I’ve known who God is my whole life and what He’s done for me but never really thought much of it. That weekend, I sang and played my guitar to everyone there.

God gave me the courage and strength to get up there and do my best. Ever since, I realized God has always given me strength to do anything. God is always there no matter what, even if you don’t believe He’s there.”

Chris: “Small groups are very important to me. It gives me a chance to have an in depth conversation about Christ and talk about what is happening in our lives. I feel like this is a safe environment to have these discussions because you can be comfortable with your friends. Also, we have a very fun time.”

Coleman: “The experience of small groups is awesome for me because we have a close, tight-knit group of guys who can look after each other and keep us grounded and focused on God. It is very easy to slip away from Him at school, but we always have buddies keeping us accountable for our actions, and it really helps. We also learn a lot about God more in depth than regular Sunday school discussions, and it is something to look forward to every Sunday.”

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GRANDPA JOHN

The Last December

by John C. Westervelt

T

his will be my last December in my house. It all began fortyseven years ago. Paul was a second grader and Mary Kim was in kindergarten at Hoover Elementary School. Nelda and I had looked at houses for several months when we met Wesley Crone, an architect. Wesley had made the drawings of Asbury that included a courtyard with a building on one side and another to be added to a second side. The final side of the rectangle would be enclosed years later with a sanctuary. Wesley agreed to make an architectural drawing of the house Nelda and I wanted for two hundred dollars. With bids from five builders in the new Sungate addition, construction began in 1964. In July, we moved in as the 50th of 500 homes in Sungate.

Oklahoma State University recommended pin oak trees, so I planted one in front and one on the side of my house. Each December for many years, I cut off the lower branches. Today the trunks of these towering oaks rise taller than my house. My trees absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen for healthy breathing for my neighbors and me.

early Christmases, leaves were added to the dining room table, a white linen cloth was spread, and each gold-rimmed china plate was surrounded with silver and crystal. A part of the centerpiece would be cuttings from my pine tree.

When finished eating the children would say, “May I be excused?”

The adults tarried, sharing family stories.

In time, Paul and his boyhood sweetheart, Sandy Parks, went to OSU, were married in their senior year, and a few years later started the cycle of Christmas for children all over again with the addition of Brett and Amy. Amy was two when her Grandma Nelda died in August. I was determined that the upcoming Christmas would be the same as always. Nelda’s mom, a long time widow, agreed to come for several days to help with the preparations. Though not to Nelda’s high standards, the Christmas food we managed to put on the table satisfied our families.

New Christmas traditions evolved. I began serving a Christmas buffet on Christmas Eve. Paul and Sandy hosted the family at their house for Christmas breakfast. Sandy’s folks, Chris and Nancy, served Christmas dinner in the afternoon. In recent years, my china and crystal have gathered dust in the kitchen cabinet.

I am now eighty-four-years old. Paul and Mary Kim live in Texas.

When Crestwood at Oklahoma Methodist Manor is completed late next spring, I shall move into my new residence. This last December in my house will complete forty-seven Christmases here. As I contemplate this milestone, my mind is flooded with forty-seven years of memories.

Year after year, Nelda’s Christmas packages were each a masterpiece. She didn’t mind being behind schedule most of the holiday. Each year, Nelda searched for a new ornament. This could be from a shop while on vacation or from a Tulsa store.

Mary Kim was still in grade school when she painted a couple dozen flat, wooden ornaments. When I reduce the number of ornaments in my collection for my move to Crestwood, these will remain with me.

When Nelda and I were married in 1954, we received sterling silver dinnerware and crystal stemware. While serving in the navy from 1950 to 1953, I bought Nortake china in Japan. For the

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When Brett and Amy reached their early twenties, Mary Kim and Robert’s children, Joel and Kyla, came along to keep alive Christmas as viewed through the eyes of a child. I hope that Joel and Kyla, now nine and six, will always remember their last December at Grandpa John’s house.

I too shall remember, but I also look forward to Christmas in my new residence. I hope my grandchildren join me in anticipating Christmases of the future at my new home on the second floor of Crestwood.

The big Christmas tree will be left behind, replaced by a small tree on a table. Jesus will rest below the tree in His crèche with His daddy and mother standing on either side, all in homemade stained glass. The worship of Him will be the same.

Other stories at www.jwestervelt.com

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Asbury Opportunities RECYCLING PAPER

GENERAL INFORMATION

Recycle unwanted paper products. Three bins are available, located in the south and east parking lots.

BREAKFAST

Come enjoy fellowship with Asburians along with fresh donuts, bagels, biscuits & gravy, sausage, eggs, fruit, and cereal.

• Served from 7:00–9:00 am in the CLC • $3 for adults and $1 for children 12 and under SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP

8:00 am

9:15 am 9:15 am

11:00 am 11:00 am

FREE! Suitable for framing.

NEW ADDITIONS TO THE LIBRARY

Mason Chapel (Traditional Communion) Sanctuary (Contemporary) CLC (Open House Worship) (Acoustic Worship, Casual Setting) Sanctuary (Traditional) Venue 68 (Modern with sign interpreter)

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, 5:30–6:30 pm, Family Room

SUNDAY EVENING WORSHIP

6:00 pm

DOORS OF ASBURY POSTERS ARE AT THE WELCOME CENTERS...

Venue 68 (Modern)

FRIENDS IN CHRIST COMMUNITY

• Sundays, 11:00 am, room 1507

SUNDAYS FOR CHILDREN AND STUDENTS

6 Weeks - 4 Years K-6th Grades 7th, 8th & 9th Grades 10th, 11th & 12th Grades

8:00, 9:15 and 11:00 am 9:15 or 11:00 am 9:15 and 11:00 am 9:15 am only

BIBLE STUDY

ADULT DISCIPLESHIP COMMUNITIES

Watch for the new lineup of classes coming for winter 2012. Make a plan to dig deeper into God’s Word with some of our weekly studies. Check online at “Roadmap” on the Asbury website or watch for brochures coming soon. Here are some ongoing studies you may attend at any time:

SURGERY OR HOSPITALIZATION SCHEDULED?

Study on the Imperatives of the New Testament: Meanings, Objectives and Applications • Wednesdays, 6:00–7:30 pm • Room 1508 • Instructor: Don Herrold

Adult Bible study, belonging, and serving together • Sunday at 8:00, 9:15 and 11:00 am • Options during the week - Tuesdays at 6:00 pm, Wednesdays at 6:00 and 7:30 pm

Be sure to let Asbury know ahead of time by calling Joan at 918.392.1176 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 calling 918.492.1771, selecting option 6, and leaving a message for the pastor on call.

BELIEVERS BIBLE STUDY

WOMEN OF THE WORD

Join Darlene Johnson as she leads an open Bible study focusing on the practical application of the Scripture sermon series.

• Wednesdays, 10:00–11:00 am (No childcare) • Room 2319

THE GAZEBO IS OPEN

CDs of Tom’s message of the day are available immediately following the worship service - $3. UMW Cookbooks available for $20. Additional volunteers needed.

CARE AND SUPPORT SEXUAL ABUSE RECOVERY

Sexual abuse doesn’t just affect us as children—the ripples spread

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OPPORTUNITIES

throughout our lifetime. But there is hope! These small groups are committed to recovery, healing and a life of freedom.

• Tuesdays, January 10–April 10, 6:00–8:00 pm • Venue68 Yellow Room • Cost $20 for book (Shelter from the Storm) • 918.392.1134 to sign up (all calls confidential) RELATIONSHIP MATTERS

Sample one, two or all six of these new relationship workshops.

Come alone or bring your friend or spouse. Skills and principles apply to friendships, parent/child relationships, marriages and work relationships. Topics include listening, sex, assertiveness, conflict, forgiveness and blended family. Facilitators will be experts in the subject matter.

• Wednesdays, January 11–February 15, 6:00–8:00 pm • Room 2818 • Childcare available • No cost • Register online or call 918.392.1191 GRIEF SHARE

Grief Share is a special weekly video series and support group for people who are grieving the death of someone close to them. It’s a safe place to be around people who understand what you are feeling. At Grief Share, you’ll learn valuable information about recovering from your grief and renewing your hope for the future.

You may begin attending this group at any time; each video is “self contained.” Group sessions are offered three times per year • Wednesdays, January 18–April 25, 6:00-7:30 pm • Room 1507 • Cost is $15 for materials • Childcare available • Register online or call 918.392.1191 S.M.I.L.E. (SINGLE MOTHERS IN THE LORD’S EMBRACE)

Join us for a DVD series and book entitled “21 Principles of a Healthy Single Mom.” You will learn to apply specific, workable guidelines so you can flourish spiritually in the midst of overwhelming circumstances. Each principle/video session is self-contained, and you may begin attending at any time.

• Third Thursdays, 6:00–8:45 pm • Parlor • Childcare provided • $12 for book • RSVP to Kellie at asburysmile@ymail.com HEALING HATS MINISTRY

An Asbury ministry created to provide hats to cancer patients who have lost their hair. Home spun with knots of love, woven together with help from above! Simply knit, crochet or sew a hat of your choice and drop it in the collection box located next to the Gazebo. Find more information in the literature rack attached to

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the collection box.

• Contact Sue at 918.455.2816 or HealingHatsMin@aol.com VISITS TO ASBURY MEMBERS

Asbury has a group of volunteers (Asbury Connection) who regularly visit people who are homebound, in nursing homes or in assisted living facilities.

• Contact Adrena at 918.392.1144 or the coordinator, Linda Pat Colgan at 918.366.3287 or jsclpc@yahoo.com PRAYER CARD MINISTRY

Send cards with God’s encouraging words and our prayers to those who are ill or going through hard times.

• Usually meets first and third Mondays at 9:30 am • Room 1508 • Contact Gwen Mohler at 918.258.5479 or grmohler@aol.com 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. Send complete name and address to: • Jo VanDeWiele at 918.459.0888 or Gwen at grmohler@aol.com SURVIVORS!

Reaching out to one another with God’s eternal perspective through the storms of life. For those living with life-changing physical illness. Friends and family too.

• Second Sunday of each month, 4:00–5:30 pm • Parlor • Contact Rod at 918.740.4393 DIVORCE RECOVERY

For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma.

• Tuesdays, 7:00–8:30 pm • Room 1335 • Childcare available • Contact Malia Miller at 918.494.9596 or malia.miller@ sbcglobal.net DIVORCE REBUILDING

For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce.

• Thursdays, 7:00–8:30 pm • Room 1335 • Childcare available • Contact Jim Small at 918.697.4220 or divorce-rebuilding@ cox.net

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MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES

For family members or caregivers of people affected by a mental illness.

• Usually meets the fourth Thursdays from 1:30–3:00 pm • Parlor • Contact Linda Lytle at 918.298.2707 or lllytle@wildflower.net

• Faith Zone • Contact Eryn Wallis 918.392.4588 SPECIAL VOLUNTEERS FOR SPECIAL KIDS!

ASBURY BEAR BAGS

Do you have a heart to help children with special needs? If so, the Children’s Ministry needs you to volunteer.

• Contact Dotti Westerberg at dottiwesterberg@hotmail.com or 918.381.0874

Registration forms for all children’s activities are available in the preschool and elementary lobbies.

The 4th–6th graders have the privilege of presenting the Christmas Story to the congregation at the 5:00 pm Christmas Eve Family Service. We need instrumentalists, Scripture readers, and actors/ actresses to make this a memorable evening for all.

• December 5, deadline • Contact Jennifer Barnes at 918.392.4582 or jbarnes@ asburytulsa.org • We also need adult help with rehearsals

Asbury Bear Bags with coloring books have comforted young children for many years, but now you may give a Bear Bag with a scripture-based journal included instead! Great for teens and adults.

Anyone may deliver an Asbury bear to someone who is grieving.

• Contact Sue at suemorey@yahoo.com

CHILDREN

CHRISTMAS EVE FAMILY SERVICE

CORE CHILDCARE HOURS

Parents who are involved in RoadMap classes during these core hours will have childcare provided for children 6 weeks - 12 years of age with no reservations needed: • Sunday

8:00 am–12:00 pm • Monday and Tuesday 9:00 am–12:00 pm • Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 6:00 pm–9:00 pm SUNDAY MORNING VOLUNTEERS

Children’s Ministry is actively pursuing classroom, security and hospitality volunteers. We have two rotations: Alpha (1st and 2nd Sundays) and Omega (3rd and 4th Sundays) at both the 9:15 and 11:00 class times.

• Contact Joanna Edwards at 918.392.1166 or jedwards@ asburytulsa.org MURDOCK VILLA VISITS

4th, 5th and 6th graders can serve at an assisted living housing project once a month where the majority of the residents have physical disabilities. Space is limited to the first 10 students. Make sure you sign up early and have your permission slip signed.

• December 11, 12:30 pm • Rock 6 room • $5 for a pizza lunch • Contact Abby Sluice at 918.392.4583 CELEBRATION STATION

Celebration Station is a 52-week complementary children’s program to Celebrate Recovery. While adults explore topics that bring healing and wholeness, kids discover the same truths in ageappropriate ways through worship, crafts, games and activities.

• Mondays, 7:00–9:00 pm

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 Centers.

• If you are 20’s to early 30’s, come check out our newest Sunday morning group at 11:00 am in room 2201, “Transitions” • Looking for a home-based small group? Email JOdom@ asburytulsa.org GROUPLINK

If you’re looking for a place to belong at Asbury, GroupLink may be for you! Meet friends and form an adult small group—for men, women and married couples. Sing up online, by CLC or in Venu68.

Contact Jon Odom at jodom@asburytulsa.org for more information.

ENDOWMENTS Leave a legacy that continues to give forever to a ministry you want to support. There are endowments that support many areas of Asbury’s outreach including children, youth, music, missions, and training of pastors as well as a general endowment. You can easily impact a ministry through your will or a current gift.

• Contact Dwight Yoder at 918.392.1113 or dyoder@ asburytulsa.org

HOSPITALITY New opportunities coming soon! There will be some special events in early 2012 that will require many smiling servants. We also

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need new volunteers to serve in a hospitality role at Connection Corner where many people have their first experience at Asbury.

The Gazebo needs new volunteers as well.

• Call Joan at 918.392.1176 to volunteer

MARRIAGE & FAMILY COUPLE-TO-COUPLE INFO/DESSERT NIGHT

See how you can make a difference in families of the future.

Training starts in February on Tuesdays. Remarriages welcome.

• December 6, 6:30–8:00 pm • Parlor • Register online or call 918.392.1191 • Contact Charlene at 918.392.1145 or cgiles@asburytulsa.org for more information ATTENTION ENGAGED COUPLES

If you are planning to use an Asbury pastor to officiate and/or use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to book ASAP to allow ample time for Couple-to-Couple (required premarital meetings).

MEMBERSHIP ASBURY EXPLORATION

Come to a lunch/class to learn more about becoming a member of Asbury.

• Sunday, December 4, 12:15–2:00 pm • Community Life Center (CLC) • Childcare available for children six weeks through sixth grade • Lunch provided • Call 918.392.1191 to register

MISSIONS/VIM 2ND SATURDAY

Looking for an easy way to make a difference and share Christ’s love in Tulsa? Join us for Second Saturday and choose between local mission opportunities. Families with children are welcomed and encouraged!

• December 10, 8:30 am at Venue68 • Head to the ministry sites, 8:45; teams work from 9:00–11:30 am; buses return to Venue68 no later than 12:15 pm • Contact Betty Higgins at carevets@aol.com ADOPT A CHRISTMAS CHILD

We are blessed with a wonderful opportunity to reach out to children from Youth at Heart, Operation Hope Prison Ministry and Circle of Care. We have names of 450 children needing gifts for Christmas. We would appreciate your help in providing gifts for one or more of these children. The children have requested articles of clothing with sizes and a game or toy. We ask that you provide one article of clothing and one game or toy. Please prayerfully consider how you might be able to help with this outreach.

• Sunday, December 4 - date to adopt a child • Locations to adopt a child –– South entrance downstairs by preschool –– Upstairs by children’s lobby –– North entrance by gazebo –– Venue68 north lobby • Sunday, December 11 - date to bring your wrapped gift • Locations to bring wrapped gifts –– CLC Gallery –– Venue68 north lobby • Contact Jamie at 918.636.2460 or Radhika at 918.392.1116 for questions or to help with delivery on December 15 at 5:30 pm

MEN OJT (OVERCOMING JOB TRANSITIONS)

MEN’S PRAYER BREAKFAST

Make plans to join us for a great time of meaningful worship, lifechanging prayer and an awesome big breakfast.

• Wednesdays, 6:30–7:30 am • CLC • Cost is $3 per person; first-time guests are free

When someone asks “How are you doing?” it sounds like “Have you found a job yet?” God has created each of us uniquely for a specific purpose and some people are still seeking that. We can help.

• Third Tuesday each month, 6:30–9:00 pm • Family Room • Contact Russ Knight at OJTJobs@gmail.com

MUSIC

MATURE MEN’S MINISTRY R.O.M.E.O. LUNCHEON

Are you a “Retired Old Man” who wants to “Eat Out?” If so, then these luncheons are for you! A really awesome bunch of guys meet for good food and great fellowship.

• Meet every second and fourth Friday, 11:15 am • Village Inn (71st and Memorial) • Open to anyone 60 years and up • Contact Bud at bdmathes@cox.net or Jim at robersonjim29@ ymail.com

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PETER MAYER CONCERT

Join us for a Christmas celebration like no other! Stars and Promises, Echoes of Christmas 2011.

• Concert begins at 7:00; doors open at 6:30 pm • Venue68 • Tickets are $15 at the door, online at itickets.com or at Mardel Bookstore

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CHILDREN’S CHOIRS CHRISTMAS PAGEANT

Our second Sunday of Advent will spotlight the Asbury’s children’s choirs as they present Bows of Holly. The drama will feature the Young Musicians choir who will present the story of Holly who is collecting food and toys for underprivileged children and how she finds the true meaning of giving. Joyful Sounds, Joyful Noise and the Music Makers will tell the age-old Christmas story through songs. You will not want to miss this heart-warming evening.

• Sunday, December 4, 6:00 pm • Sanctuary MUSIC SUNDAY, THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT

We will celebrate the Third Sunday of Advent as our morning congregations come together . The New Covenant Orchestra, the Chanel Choir and Perpetual Light will present the music of Christmas with lush arrangements of traditional Christmas carols and hymns. Dr. Tom Harrison will also preach a short message.

• Sunday, December 11, 9:15 and 11:00 am • Sanctuary only • Services will be held at 11:00 am and 6:00 pm at Venue68

CELEBRATION RINGERS

• Tuesdays, 4:30–5:30 pm • Handbell room ASBURY POWER & LIGHT CO.

• Sundays, 8:00–9:15 am • Orchestra room CHILDREN’S CHOIRS

Come learn about God through music as we sing, play instruments, play musical games and prepare our Christmas pageant.

• Wednesdays, 6:00–6:50 pm • Available for children age four (by September 1, 2011) through sixth grade ASBURY SINGING AMBASSADORS

• Tuesdays, 1:30–3:00 • Choir room • Available for senior adults

PRAYER

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES

We will celebrate Christmas Eve in the Sanctuary at three services followed by one service in Mason Chapel • 5:00 pm service is lead by children and is held in the Sanctuary, presenting the story of Christmas.

• 7:00 and 9:00 pm services, also in the Sanctuary, are Candlelight and Carol Services with Dr. Tom Harrison joined by Hart Morris, the Chancel Choir and the New Covenant Orchestra.

Childcare available only for the 7:00 pm service.

• 11:00 pm service will celebrate Christmas Eve in Mason Chapel with a Candlelight and Communion Service. Dr. Tom Harrison leads the service with Hart Morris leading the worship.

CHANCEL CHOIR

We have so much fun…singing, laughing and serving together.

Come share your God-given talent with us.

• Wednesdays, 7:00–9:00 pm • Choir room • Available for seventh grade through adults.

NEW COVENANT ORCHESTRA

• Wednesdays, 6:00–7:30 pm • Orchestra room PERPETUAL LIGHT

• Thursdays, 10:30am–12:00 noon • Handbell room

ALTAR PRAYER

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

SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE

Join with us in a service of prayer and healing. The emphasis will be on grief and loss experienced within the past year or two.

This special service will offer words of comfort, a time of healing prayer and a time for participants who so desire to light a candle in memory of those they have lost. This special hour can bring encouragement during the Christmas season and offer strength for today and hope for tomorrow.

• Sunday, December 11, 2011, 5:00 pm • Mason Chapel PRAYER ROOM RESERVATIONS

The leadership of Asbury’s prayer ministry would like to remind you that the main facility Prayer Room is open not only to individuals desiring to pray in a quiet, meditative atmosphere but also to prayer groups within communities and ministries.

Just call the Adult Ministries office at 918.392.4589 to reserve the Prayer Room for your group on a weekly or monthly basis.

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PRAYER ROOM DAYS AND TIMES

Our prayer rooms are accessible to you at these times: • Mason Chapel and Venue 68 –– Sundays from 7:00 am–12:30 pm, through the interior doors • Main Facility, Mason Chapel and Venue 68 –– Monday - Friday, 8:00 am–9:00 pm –– Saturday, 10:00 am–3:00 pm –– Sunday, 12:30 pm–9:00 pm To obtain door codes, call Pam in the Adult Ministries office at 918.392.4589.

RECOVERY

friend and stay for as long as you like!

• Every third Thursday, 1:30–4:00 pm • Room 2821 SENIOR WALK IN THE GYM WITH HIM

All senior adults are invited to join us for power walking, coupled with lots of fun and fellowship. Come give it a try.

• Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 8:30–9:00 am • Gym SENIOR SIT AND FIT STRETCHING CLASS

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

Come join this supportive group of people. Hiding any hurts, habits or hang-ups? God never intended for you to live in bondage.

• Every Monday night: dinner at 6:00 pm, worship from 7:00–8:00 pm, small groups from 8:00–9:00 pm, dessert from 9:00–9:30 pm

All senior adults are invited to join us for a time of stretching, coupled with lots of fun and fellowship. No high impact workout here. We take it nice and easy.

• Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00–9:30 am • Gym SENIOR ADULT MEAL & MOVIE

SENIOR ADULTS DINNER AND CHRISTMAS LIGHT TOUR

Come join Asbury Senior Adults for our annual Dinner and Christmas Light Tour. The evening will begin with a delicious soup and sandwich dinner served by Virginia. After bellies are warm and full, we will board a luxury bus, and from the comfort and warmth of the bus, will view Christmas light displays and attractions in the surrounding Tulsa area. The evening will end back at Asbury. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to fellowship with friends, old and new, share a delicious supper and experience beautiful sights of the season!

• Monday, December 5, 5:00–8:00 pm • Family Room for dinner, then board a bus to view Christmas light displays • Cost is $12.00 • Registration forms available at the south welcome desk • Deadline Wednesday, November 30, or until all seats on the bus are filled TWEENAGERS DECEMBER PROGRAM AND LUNCHEON

“Mary, Mother of Jesus” will be presented in a dramatization by Janet Johnston. Music and a short play by Asbury’s children will surely be a delight to all. Everyone aged 55 and over is welcomed to come. A donation to Tweenagers’ missions and other expenses will be greatly appreciated. Come join us for fun and fellowship.

• Thursday, December 8, 10:30 am–1:00 pm • CLC • Lunch $1.00; no advance reservation required

If you’re 55 years of age or over, our monthly meal and movie day event may be just the “ticket” for you! We get together at a different Tulsa restaurant each month, and then head off to see a “first run” movie.

• The dates and times vary according to the movie selected, but those who express an interest will be contacted a few days ahead of time so they can make plans accordingly • For more information or to sign up for the call list, contact Sally Wood, sally-wood@sbcglobal.net

SINGLES SINGLES CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON

Single adults and their families are invited to attend our Singles Christmas Luncheon to celebrate the holiday season. Great fellowship, food, fun and door prizes. Bring a friend.

• December 11, 12:15–1:30 pm • CLC • $5.00 per person; kids 10 and under eat free • No reservations required COMMUNITIES

You are always welcome to join any other communities that are not “Singles Only”, as most are a mix of singles and marrieds.

• Sundays, 9:15 am - New Beginnings Class • Sundays, 11:00 am - Ambassadors for Christ, Footprints (ladies only), SEGUE, Salt & Light

STUDENTS ADULT GAME DAY

Attention all adults! How would you like to get together on a regular basis with a wonderful bunch of fun adults and play cards, dominoes, or whatever board or card game you choose? Bring a

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7 8 9 GRADE BREAKAWAY – SUNDAY MORNINGS

On Sunday mornings at 9:15 am, we meet in the BAM room (upstairs in the Venue) for a large total group experience of games,

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worship and teachings from God’s Word. If you like large groups and worship, be there. At 11:00 am, we meet in the green classroom as a smaller group and do a more in depth Bible study.

• The first Wednesday of every month, 7:00–8:30 pm • Venue68

7 8 9 GRADE BIBLE STUDY

If you are a college-age student, we would love to have you come join us. We eat a homemade meal together then open up God’s word.

• Sunday evenings, 7:30–9:00 pm • Briggs home • Contact Todd Peterson at 918.392.1154 or tpeterson@ asburytulsa.org • Will not meet December 18 and 25

COLLEGE COMMUNITY GROUP

Come join us for Wednesday night Bible study; hang out, have fun and study what God’s words has for us.

• Wednesdays, 6:30–8:00 pm • Student Café • Will not meet December 21 and 28 8TH GRADE PARENT MEETING

Come learn more about walking with your student through purity.

• December 4 from 6:15–8pm 8TH GRADE PURITY CELEBRATION

Don’t miss this awesome parent and student (a parent must come with every student) purity ceremony for all 8th grade students that have attended small groups this semester.

• December 11, 6:30–7:30pm • Venue 10 11 12 SUNDAY MORNINGS @ VENUE 68

On Sunday mornings we meet for an in-depth Bible Study and discussion.

• Sundays, 9:15 am • High school room • Will not meet December 18 and 25 10 11 12 BREAKAWAY

Every Wednesday night we come together for a time of connection and worship. Our desire is to explore who God really is and how our lives matter to Him. • Wednesday nights, 7:00–8:30 pm • Hang out afterwards for pizza • Will not meet December 21 and 28 10 11 12 SMALL GROUPS

Get connected. Are you looking for a way to get more connected?

Are you looking for a place to grow in your walk with Jesus? Then being a part of a small group is where you need to be. Our small groups meet every Sunday night; times vary. Some of the groups meet in homes and others meet at the church.

• Contact Todd at 918.392.1154 or Amy at 918.392.1156 • Will not meet December 18 and 25

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES GET PLUGGED IN!

Volunteer opportunities have been updated and can be found at the information desks near the main entrances and Venue68. Updates are also posted on the website.

WOMEN UMW DECEMBER UNIT LUNCHEON

How did early Christians share their faith? Come see this revealed

by Asbury’s Marti Curzon as she presents “The Gospel Story in Art Before the Printed Word,” a fascinating look into the early history of the Christian faith. Scripture John 1:1.

• Thursday, December 1, 11:30 am–1:00 pm • CLC • Cost is $7.00 for lunch; no reservation required WOMEN OF THE WORD

• • • •

Wednesdays, 10:00–11:00 am Room 2319 No childcare available Teacher is Rev. Darlene Johnson

CRAFTY LADIES FELLOWSHIP

Ladies, if you enjoy doing crafts and fellowshipping at the same time, this activity is for you. We gather on Monday mornings to work on our own individual arts and crafts then stop for a delicious pot-luck lunch, before resuming our crafts. We have a wonderful time together and would love to have you join us.

• Mondays, 9:30 am–1:00 pm • Room 2821 • Contact Betty Seetin or just stop by

WORSHIP 7TH-12TH GRADE METRO WORSHIP @ VENUE 68

Come join youth from all over the city in a night to just worship Jesus.

8:00 AM COMMUNION SERVICE

• Mason Chapel

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• Traditional service with music led by Hart Morris • Communion is served • Dr. Harrison preaches

11:00 AM TRADITIONAL SERVICE

9:15 AM CONTEMPORARY PRAISE & WORSHIP

• Sanctuary • The Chancel Choir, the New Covenant Orchestra and various vocal and instrumental ensembles offer a variety of styles of music led by Hart Morris • Dr. Tom Harrison preaches

9:15 AM OPEN HOUSE WORSHIP

• Venue 68 • Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by Chris Cleveland and team • Sign interpreters for the deaf are offered • Rev. Spencer Smith preaches

• Sanctuary • Contemporary music led by Mark Bennett and team • Time of prayer and the message will all carry a prevailing theme for the morning • Dr. Harrison preaches

• Community Life Center • A relaxed atmosphere with engaging worship led by Dub Ambrose and team • Dr. Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast with an occasional live sermon from another pastor

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11:00 AM MODERN SERVICE

6:00 PM MODERN SERVICE

• Venue68 • Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by the Ben Kilgore and team • Rev. Spencer Smith preaches

T IDI NGS, DEC E M BER 2 011

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

Marriages, Births and Deaths MARRIAGES

DEATHS

• Susan Kay Greeson and Christopher Duane Miller married 10-1-2011 • Amanda Marie Meyer and Jason Ward McConnell married 10-01-2011 • Katia Barbosa Rezende and Mark Edward Bezinque married 10-28-2011

BIRTHS • Cameron Elizabeth Garrett born 9-26-2011, daughter of Kristy and David Garrett, siblings are Joshua, Brady and Jaxon • Lincoln Callahan Renfrow born 9-28-2011, son of Natalie and Garth Renfrow, siblings are Izzy and Sophia • Libby Rose Odom born 10-20-2011, daughter of Jon and Emily Odom • Max Charles Fugate born 10-24-2011, son of Aaron and Hollace Fugate, little brother of Cale and Lincoln Fugate • Caroline Reese Lawson born 4-21-2011, daughter of Melissa and Travis Lawson, big brother is Cale

• Paul Watkins died 9-30-2011, husband of Katherine, father of Steve Watkins • Laquita Joye Melton died 10-10-2011 • Lavonda Wallis died 10-10-2011, wife of Rev. James E Wallis • Harold Propp died 10-11-2011, father of Martin W Propp • Dusty Ryan Parker died 10-19-2011, husband of Jennifer Parker, father of Alyssa, Jayden and Allyson • William E Manley died 10-25-2011, husband of Betty J Manley • Betty Hale died 10-28-2011

Milestone Anniversaries 55 YEARS

50 YEARS

• John and Jo Keil 12/08/56 • Tom and Lou Ann Costello 12/29/56

• Don and Barbara Wright

12/17/61

MILESTONE WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Email your upcoming Milestone Anniversary (5, 10, 15, 20, etc.) to Carolyn Schutte at brucars2@cox.net or call 918.451.1559.

John and Jo Keil 12/08/56

Don and Barbara Wright 12/17/61

T IDI NGS, DEC E M BER 2 011

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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

New Members

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Marjie Brenner

Charlie & Kay Bubb

Tom Kern

Meeyoun Pavlicek

Andrew and Haley Ragsdale with Briggs

David and Audrey Smith

T IDI NGS, DEC E M BER 2 011

Holiday Calendar at a Glance Asbury 2011 DEC 4

Children’s Choirs Christmas Pageant (Second Sunday of Advent)

DEC 11

Music Sunday (Third Sunday of Advent)

DEC 16

Peter Mayer Concert

DEC 24

Christmas Eve Services

DEC 25

Christmas Day

DEC 31

New Year’s Eve Watch Night

JAN 1

New Year’s Day

èè 6:00 pm in the Sanctuary èè “Bows of Holly” featuring the Young Musicians choir, Joyful Sounds, Joyful Noise and the Music Makers

èè 9:15 and 11:00 am services in the Sanctuary èè The New Covenant Orchestra, Chanel Choir and Perpetual Light will present “The Music of Christmas.” Dr. Tom Harrison will preach a short message. èè 11:00 am and 6:00 pm at Venue68

èè Concert begins at 7:00 (doors open at 6:30 pm) at Venue68 èè Tickets are $15 at the door, online at itickets.com or at Mardel bookstore èè Stars and Promises, Echoes of Christmas 2011

èè 5:00 pm in the Sanctuary - the Christmas story presented by the 5th–6th graders èè 7:00 and 9:00 pm, in the Sanctuary, are Candlelight and Carol Services with Dr. Tom Harrison joined by Hart Morris, the Chancel Choir and the New Covenant Orchestra. Childcare available only for the 7:00 pm service. èè 11:00 pm service will celebrate Christmas Eve in Mason Chapel with a Candlelight and Communion Service.

Dr. Tom Harrison leads the service with Hart Morris leading the worship.

èè 10:30 am, Sanctuary, will be the only service. No childcare provided.

èè 6:00 pm, Mason Chapel, Wesley Covenant Service and Communion with Dr. Tom Harrison

èè All services held at their normal times and locations

Non-Profit U.S.Postage PAID Tulsa, OK Permit #2439