Reaching Students One by One by Asbury Church

january 2012

hope you enjoyed the Christmas season. It is hard to believe that another year has passed. What I heard as a kid is true: the years seem to go faster. To begin the new year, I want to tell you about several things that will have our attention in 2012. For the first time in many years, Asbury is experiencing a declining trend in worship attendance. We spent considerable time in 2011 studying the issue. At the time of this writing, it is not clear that there is a single primary cause. Interestingly, our membership and financial giving continue to grow. We expect to conclude our assessments in the first part of the year. Several times in 2011 I’ve discussed the subject of communications. This was an item of focus for Tom. It continues to be a high priority for 2012. We are increasingly appreciating the ways in which our communications need to change and improve. A number of you have given us positive feedback on our efforts this past year. Thank you. There is much yet to be done. Two issues in particular stand out. We face challenges communicating effectively to the wide range of ages in our congregation. We need to simplify and improve our communication of the “big picture” and “what do you want me to do next.” Tom has directed us to devote more attention to assisting families in becoming the primary disciple-making unit. His passion is to pass the faith to the coming generations. It has been estimated that children ministry programs directly engage children about 40 hours per year. This amount of time is tiny compared to the 2000 to 3000 hours in which parents and other adults can influence children and teenagers. This effort will have several components. It includes more than providing practical advice and tools to parents for talking about their faith. The emotional and financial health of families can significantly influence spiritual development. Successful marriages offer advantages to the development of children. Like the rest of society, Asbury has a large number of single-parent households. Our ministries recognize and are trying to address the special challenges they face. Since 2006, Tom has talked about his strong desire to reach the “third generation.” He explained it like this. When he came to Asbury in 1993, his task was to keep the “Bill Mason generation” and to reach his own generation. (For those new to Asbury, Bill Mason is our senior pastor emeritus.) When Tom turned 50, which was shortly after moving to our new location, he realized that his next task was to reach the incoming young people, i.e., the “third generation” of Asburians. Particularly in this young adult group, Asbury, like most churches, is struggling to effectively engage with them. A bright spot in this area is the number of small groups that have been started. While our overall success has been modest, we remain very committed to this goal. In 2012 it is likely that we will try some new approaches. 2011 was the first year of operation for our newly restructured local outreach ministry. You will see it continue to grow and develop over 2012. As always, all of our ministries are continuously working to improve their contribution to the broader goal of Asbury which is to make disciples. For a couple of years Tom has had a vision of starting a Discipleship Academy for leadership development of those who want to lead in making disciples. We will be working to integrate this as we continue to rework our discipleship development strategy. Thank you for all the ways that you support Asbury. Your prayers are appreciated as we move into 2012. Dwight Yoder

Contents A Word From Tom Harrison Three Asburians We Are Following Small Groups Reaching Students One by One Making a Difference Why Do I Teach at Asbury? RoadMap Care and Marriage Become More Than…! Who is Your Neighbor? Volunteers Grandpa John Music Recipes of the Month Opportunities Special Announcements

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On the cover: Jason and Molly Soderstrom (with Selah) reach college students with God’s love, pg. 4. 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: Nikki Boyd, Dee Gibbs, Charlene Giles, Joan Henning, Diane King, Bob and Liz Miller, Marty Morris, Jon Odom, Jason Soderstrom, John C. Westervelt

A Word From Tom Harrison Talking about a goofed up church - have you ever read Paul’s letter(s) to the Corinthians? Wow! They had all kinds of problems. They had huge issues! And they had little in the way of Christian tradition or scripture to draw upon. Paul most likely wrote to the Corinthians before any of the Gospels were written. So when he wrote about the difference the resurrection makes (1 Corinthians 15), that may have been the first time this information became part of the New Testament. Every church is a reflection of its culture. The Corinthians weren’t insulated from that. They were a product of their geography - a very narrow land bridge connected the southern part of Greece to the rest of the European continent. When ships docked at Corinth, they would unload the cargo and transport the ship over land for a handful of miles where it could once again be placed back into the waters. This was a lot of work, obviously. But it reduced treacherous sailing, especially during seasons of turbulent weather. When the ships were being transported, the term “drunken sailors” would apply. They hit the town of Corinth with gusto and fury. It was a wild and wicked place to live. They also had a religion which promoted sexual immorality. The Temple of Aphrodite attracted a lot of faithful followers. When the Church was founded in Corinth, they had to resist all kinds of cultural norms and practices. That’s why Paul spends so much of his time talking about Jesus as “Lord.” For Jesus to be Lord meant that He, not culture, governed life. This included how you used your body (for purity or immorality?), your time, and your money. We are embarking on a study of 1 Corinthians. It’s really a fascinating book. Just like churches today, the Corinthians had a LOT of problems. They had problems of the flesh (immorality) and problems of the spirit (pride and envy, etc.). They had problems understanding Christian doctrine, and even more difficulty applying that doctrine. They had problems with spiritual gifts and with pride in the use of those gifts. In January, we’ll be looking at the first two chapter of 1 Corinthians: 1st

1:1–9

Greetings, Background, God’s Power (BELONG)

8th

1:10–17

Problems of a Local Church (BELONG)

15th

1:18–31

Insistence on the Cross (Christ-centered focus) (BELIEVING)

22nd

2:1–5

A Fear Quake (BECOME)

29th

2:6–16

True Wisdom (BECOME)

Note that we’ll be looking at our “3 B’s” (“Belong - Believe - Become”) as a focus. I love Bible study because it helps us be grounded in our faith. It helps us understand how we are to live, too. I hope you’ll start off our New Year right by being in worship every Sunday. See you Sunday, Dr. Tom Harrison, Sr. Pastor

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

Three Asburians We Are Following For One Year Christian: Touching His Love Greetings from Nepal! Many people in this area have never seen an American and thus, we get a lot of attention when we walk around. We went to a fairly central part of the village, and there were some people around who invited us to come and sit on their table (there are tables all over the place but they’re all there for sitting on, not sitting at). They asked the same questions that everyone asks us--who we are and why we are in their village. I answered, “I am here because I love Jesus, and He told me to come here and tell people how much He loves them!” Then we began handing out tracts which outline the Gospel. Handing out tracts takes on a new meaning when people have literally never heard of Jesus. Just before leaving, we noticed one man wearing a cross necklace. After fighting with some completely irrational fear for a couple minutes, I asked him if he knew what symbol he was wearing around his neck. He said that he knew it was a Christian symbol but wasn’t sure what it meant. For the first time in my life, I laid out the basic story of what Jesus had done for us and why the cross is the symbol of Christianity.

The most memorable experience of Thanksgiving this year was that our office was able to rescue dozens of children, women and men trapped in two rice mills, forced to work as slaves. We had planned to rescue families from one rice mill, but when the team arrived individuals from an adjoining rice mill started jumping over a wall, begging to get out of slavery too. This is amazing, but it also means that we had to plan a last minute freedom training to fit in before the end of the year. Please pray for our Aftercare team as we are meeting with these newly freed people next week. We are finishing up a training this week also, so we are just plain tired. Good tired. The kind of tired you get from loving on people a lot. God is so good! I don’t know if I have ever been so thankful for his faithfulness as I was this Thanksgiving. Please be praying for my health. I haven’t been 100% in a while, and I currently have bronchitis. Specifically please ask that God will strengthen my immune system and protect my body from any little attackers (germs). Thank you all so much for your encouraging words and prayers. I have been so blessed and encouraged by people from home since I have been here.

Kayla: Sharing With Students

Our team asked if there was anyone who was sick that we could pray for. We prayed for at least 25 people to be healed from various sicknesses and injuries. As we prayed for one little girl who had a bum leg, my team member Kacie felt the girl’s knee shifting underneath her hand! After we finished praying for the girl, we saw her jump down off the table and run around. Later, the same little girl brought her little sister for prayer. Something happened inside of me that day though. As I shared the Gospel with those people, my hope was that it would light a fire in their hearts and their hearts would be touched with the story of His grace and love. I realized that afternoon that He hadn’t just touched them with His love as I shared it--that story still has just as much power to touch me as it ever had. I had forgotten myself that this simple story is the greatest story ever ever ever!

Rachel: Saving Rice Mill Slaves Life in South Asia is pretty good. There are definitely still a lot of struggles when it comes to being in a dark culture and living in a developing country. This country is in such desperate need for Jesus, and that is so evident everywhere I go. Life here has become as normal as I think it will get, which is good. I know my way around the city (well, my part of the city) and have become much more independent and have also made some good friends.

It’s been over two months now since God brought me here to Valencia! He has helped me so much already. In addition to making it possible for me to be here through your support, He has taught me so much about myself, ministry on campus, Spanish, and Venezuelan culture. You might remember me telling you about two engineering students on campus who I was able to share with to explain the freedom they have in Christ. Their names are Naige and Marbelis. Marbelis was unsure about whether she would go to heaven if she died because she had heard many times that she has to earn her salvation. Ever since our conversation, she has been reading, studying, and highlighting the Bible I gave her. She came to our campus Bible study and English club. She also went to church with me and my team twice, even though she lives in another city. She is so thirsty for God’s Word and she has a strong desire to know more about Jesus and share her faith, which is so encouraging. God is definitely moving in her heart. Naige is also showing interest in meeting up with me. I got to hang out with her this week to get to know her more. We shared some of our stories with each other...all in Spanish! God is so faithful. God is moving in some big ways. I’m excited to let you know what He has next for me in Venezuela!

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

SMALL GROUPS

GroupLink at Venue68 by Jon Odom

sbury has a long history of helping people connect in small groups. From the days of Growth Groups and K-Groups, to Purpose Driven Life study groups, to Adult Discipleship Communities, our church has always placed a high value on the transformation that takes place when Christians get together for mutual encouragement, Bible study and prayer. Our Senior Pastor Tom Harrison has said that he sees his life as a series of small groups. The priority placed on small groups even makes its way into our Objectives—hopes that we have for each Asbury member: Objective #4: “Each member participating in a small group Christian community.” In 2011, Asbury introduced a new way for adults of all ages to participate in a small group Christian community through an event called GroupLink. On the night of GroupLink, anyone who is interested in becoming a part of a new small group comes to the church to meet other group seekers. We create a casual atmosphere by setting up rooms in a big open space in Venue68, provide food and music and guide group seekers to join up with those they’ve met and get along with best. We also provide new groups with a leader that we’ve identified ahead of time. By the end of the night, a new group is formed! Now to some, the idea of mingling with strangers and forming a new group in one night sounds intimidating. But the great part about GroupLink is that you’re not the new person trying to break

into an existing group… everyone is the new person! Others may wonder, “What if my group isn’t a fit?” For this reason, we challenge all of the group seekers to make an initial eight week commitment to their group. For eight weeks, we want you to get to know your new group members, share your stories and decide whether you think the group is a good fit for you. At the end of the trial period, each group member decides whether they want to continue with the group. But we have consistently seen that the groups formed at GroupLink help cement lasting relationships that extend well beyond the trial period. In 2011, we hosted GroupLink twice and were able to help more than 160 people form new small groups. On January 26th, at 7:30 pm, we are offering GroupLink again and I hope you will consider being a part of it. If you‘re still looking for that place in our church where you feel like you belong, GroupLink might be for you. We have groups for Men, Women and Married (or Engaged) Couples. For more information, visit www.asburytulsa.org or contact me via e-mail: JOdom@asburytulsa.org.

On January 26th, at 7:30 pm, we are offering GroupLink again and I hope you will consider being a part of it.

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

by Jason Soderstrom

College is one of the most pivotal four years in a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. One makes a career choice, most likely a spouse decision, and a financial direction. Decisions made in college shape the direction of an individual and unfortunately, there is a sea of regret that can happen if the wrong choices are made. The biggest decision one can make though is what do they do with Jesus. College typically is a place where over 65% percent of students quit attending church for at least a year, and statistics say that 85% of people make a decision to follow Christ by the age of 25. College students are known for their zeal, passion and desire to shape the world. What if this next generation of leaders took that energy and passion and directed it towards using their abilities and gifts to make an eternal impact? I truly believe the world would be changed for Jesus Christ! I gained a heart for the college campus while I was a student at University of Tulsa (TU) when I got involved with Student Mobilization (StuMo). I grew up in a Christian home but my faith was not my own. When I arrived at TU my life was going in a direction that was self centered and was not a life that was given to the control of Jesus. My sophomore year, a guy named Kevin, who was on staff with StuMo, challenged me to become radical about my faith. In a single semester, my life was changed from being a self-centered person to someone who wanted to see Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s will done in his life. For the first time, I started to read my Bible consistently, share my faith with my peers, and grow in my knowledge of God. That semester God changed my life forever. As I graduated I felt as though God wanted to use me to continue to impact the campus. That next fall of 2008, Molly and I got married and came on as fulltime staff with StuMo. Now in our 5th year at TU, we can say God has blessed us and our ministry abundantly .

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Our goal as a ministry is to see lives changed for Christ on the college campus, then to launch out those students to have a global impact. Our strategy is simple: build relationships, share the Gospel with the lost, help students grow and train students to do the same.

College students are known for their zeal, passion and desire to shape the world. What if this next generation of leaders took that energy and passion and directed it towards using their abilities and gifts to make an eternal impact? In our role on staff, Molly and I build relationships with students weekly at TU by eating in the cafeteria, playing intramurals, and spending time in their residence hall or Greek house. As we build relationships, we individually walk them through the Gospel and give each student a chance to respond to the good news of Jesus Christ. We love getting to share the Gospel with college students! Every year we see students lives changed forever because of the Gospel. This last year we got to see a girl come into relationship with the Lord who had never heard of the message of Jesus Christ. She had been struggling with drug and alcohol addiction and finding her fulfillment in guys. But the Gospel is â&#x20AC;&#x153;powerful and effective,â&#x20AC;? it changed her life, and since then she has been growing and sharing the Gospel in her sorority house. She prays that other girls might find this hope and life that is in Jesus.

fraternity house. Alex has grown in his faith and now shares the Gospel on a consistent basis with his friends. Just recently Alex led a guy to Christ and is starting the same process with him as he went through a year earlier with Taylor. Lastly, our desire is to be able to send out students into the world that will love God sacrificially, serve the church and community, and faithfully share the Gospel wherever they are in life. We are so humbled to get to be a part of what Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doing at TU. When we first came on staff, we had a vision to see TU reached for the Gospel and in the last 5 years, by the grace of God, we have seen a mighty movement for his kingdom raised up. When we first started, we had two students that were faithfully meeting with us and trying to have an impact. This year we have over 30 students who are leaders in our ministry, trying to have an impact at TU. Of these leaders, 80% of them have come to Christ through our ministry in college. We once thought it was impossible to see a fraternity or sorority reached with the Gospel, but now we see God moving in these places. We have student leaders sharing the Gospel in four of the five fraternity houses, and four of the six sorority houses. The Lord is doing great things in this next generation of leaders! We would ask you to join us in prayer that God would continue to bring people into his kingdom through the Gospel and that he would raise up leaders from TU that would be launched out into the world to have an eternal impact.

We teach them how to daily read the Bible, how to pray, the importance of being involved in Christian community, and how they can share their faith and lead others to Christ.

With students who decide to follow Christ or that have a faith background already, we help them grow in the basics of the faith. We teach them how to daily read the Bible, how to pray, the importance of being involved in Christian community, and how they can share their faith and lead others to Christ. We truly believe that students can have a far greater impact on their peers for Christ than we can. With this mindset, we want to equip students to have an lasting impact in the lives of other students. We do this by teaching them how to explain the Gospel in a clear manner and how to help someone grow into Christian maturity. This is done by individually meeting up one-on-one with students and training them personally. Weekly, Molly and I meet with several students who have a desire to grow in this manner, and these students then meet weekly with younger students to help them grow in their faith. Taylor is one of these men that I have developed over the past few years. Taylor is a senior. Last year he led a guy named Alex in his fraternity to Christ. Taylor then, day in and day out, helped Alex grow in his faith by teaching him the Bible, helping him pray, and modeling what it looks like to live as a Christ-follower in a

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

by Nikki Boyd

“As ordinary as we may be, God can and will use us in extraordinary ways, if we let Him,” says Hope Schwabe. “As Christians, we are all called to get involved in ministry, every day of our life. We have one purpose – to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.” As a registered nurse, Hope lives out that purpose everyday while on the job at Saint Francis Hospital. Through a personal touch or intentional prayer, Hope is demonstrating the love of Christ to her patients. She and husband Ron have been married for three years. Between the two, they have four children and six grandchildren. Hope and Ron count Asbury and the Mosaic Community as “spiritual family.” They serve on the Mosaic prayer team. They are also communion stewards, help out in Asbury’s Gazebo, and have facilitated several Dynamic Marriage courses. The Schwabes are also very involved in Celebrate Recovery. “I can’t imagine my life without Christ. I fall asleep each night praying and awaken in the morning with praise songs in my heart,” says Hope. “He is my Everything. I don’t make a decision without consulting Him.” Hope wanted to be a nurse since she was a little girl; last September she celebrated her 37th year. She currently works at Saint Francis’ Natalie Ambulatory Surgery Center, preparing patients for surgery and discharging them after their procedure.

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

I am not defined by my past failures and sins. I am not defined by who I am; I AM DEFINED BY WHOSE I am. After admitting them, Hope usually tells her patients that she has prayed for them before coming to work. “That opens a door, and many times, they ask if I will pray for them before they go to surgery. I feel very humbled and privileged to go before our Lord on their behalf,” says Schwabe. She adds, “I believe in the power of prayer, and I believe that God has placed me where I am, to encourage others, pray for others and mirror Christ in all I say and do. I am not always successful, but I try every day to make a difference in someone’s life.” Hope remembers one particular patient who was diagnosed with breast cancer. She arrived at the hospital for her third surgery and was very tearful and apprehensive. After admitting her, Hope asked if she could pray for her. She took the hands of the patient and her husband, and as she prayed the woman began to weep. After the prayer, Hope hugged her closely. “She leaned back and looked deeply into my eyes,” recalls Hope. “With tears streaming down her face, she said, ‘Thank you so much, no one has ever offered to pray for me before. I just can’t tell you what this has meant.’”

Asbury Pastor, David Thomas, was blessed by Hope’s ministry during a recent knee surgery. He calls Hope as “an angel from God”. “Hope’s ministry is a gift,” says Thomas. “Her care and prayer for me before my surgery truly brought a sense of peace about the whole procedure. She is the right person in the right place at the right time.” Hope has had her share of struggles. And as the Lord has helped her stand in midst of these difficulties, He has given her a passion to share His love to those who are also hurting. “I am a sinner, humbled and saved by His amazing Grace,” Hope says. “I am a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and rape, have had several failed marriages, and have struggled with low self-esteem most of my life. But, I am not defined by my past failures and sins. I am not defined by who I am; I AM DEFINED BY WHOSE I am.” Hope continues, “I have learned when I daily surrender my life and my will to Him; He will lead me to areas of ministry I never thought I would have the courage to enter.”

I believe in the power of prayer, and I believe that God has placed me where I am, to encourage others, pray for others and mirror Christ in all I say and do.

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

by Diane King Gloria Phillips, Transformers Bible Study My burden is for the church to be the church. God didn’t tell us to “Go into all the world and make pew-sitters,” He said to “make disciples.” How do we do that? One-on-one. People need to know what to do at this hour – it’s getting late! I love the precious people of Asbury, and I want them to have the BEST. There is nothing better than to see people transformed. The call on my life comes from the scripture that was in the night vision calling for me to teach His people and giving me my burden for the Church. I take it so seriously that my web teaching site is entitled CRY ALOUD. “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” Isaiah 58:1 I’m kind of like castor oil: not much demand for me and not very pleasant, but when I’m needed, I really work! Gloria is an ordained minister and has been teaching the Bible since she was 16 years old. In her 80s now, she has a Masters of Divinity from Southern Seminary in Louisville, KY. She and her now deceased husband, Sam, pastored churches in Kentucky, Arkansas, Alabama, New Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma.

of God helped me so much personally. When I did the study on the Covenant, I had never heard that in church. It was a revelation to me! I particularly like Precept Upon Precept because it gives them a way to search the Scriptures for themselves. The inductive method helps people to refer back to the Bible and find what it says for their situation. We started Precept at Asbury back in the late ‘70s as a result of Shirley Ann Smith and me praying for a Bible study that we could remember. Shirley Ann attended a Precept class at another church in the area and came back excited. “I’m finally remembering what I learned. We need to have this at Asbury!” So, we took the idea and information to Bill Mason and what was then the Commission on Education at Asbury. Although a question arose about the fact that this was not specifically a Methodist Bible study, Bill Mason said, “It’s the BIBLE, so that’s it. We’re doing it!” Nancy has been teaching Precept Bible studies every year (except for the one year in which she lost her husband) since 1979. Although she began that first year “flying by the seat of her britches,” she later travelled with a few others to Chattanooga, TN to receive training from Precept Ministries to be a Precept teacher. She now travels throughout the U.S. as one of the 35 official trainers of Precept teachers, as well as teaching here at Asbury. Nancy also serves on the RoadMap Council. Dee Paige, Precept: Exodus I have a passion for teaching. I feel led by God to study the Word for myself and to share it with others. I enjoy studying the Bible, and teaching others causes me to be disciplined in keeping at it myself. Teaching is my spiritual gift, that is what I bring to the table in the Body of Christ.

Nancy Staab, Precept: Zechariah I want people to know the Word of God so they can apply Truth to their life. Since God is the One who has all the right answers, people need to take their questions to HIM. It is wonderful seeing the transformation the Word works in participants’ lives, but often it is gradual. The scriptures blossom when you apply it to everyday life and allow it to work in you, from things like working through the grief after the death of a loved one, etc. Knowing who God is helps us through so many things. The study on the Names

I didn’t become a Christian until I was right out of college, and I was led to the Lord by Doug Walker, who was a fraternity brother of mine at OSU. I had observed a change in him and asked him what had happened. When he told me Jesus had changed his life, I told him I was ready for Him, as well. After that, I just had this hunger for the Word. I started reading the New Testament out of the Living Bible, which was a paraphrase. In 1979 I took a Precept course

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

on Philippians, and when I was taught how to study the Bible for myself through the inductive method, it just blew my mind! Before that, I always had to go to a commentary after reading the Bible to find out what it meant. I love to see the growth and hunger for the word that happens as participants study the Bible. They learn to take what it says and apply it to their lives, which leads them to act that out on their own in generosity, missions involvement, etc. Dee retired in 2007 as the CFO for Redman Pipe & Supply after a long career as an accountant for various firms. He has been teaching Precept Bible studies since 1979, with a break during the time his children were teens so he could spend more time with them. He teaches an evening Precept bible study and as well as teaching in his discipleship community, Praise & Worship. Dee serves as the chairman of the RoadMap Council.

invited some other friends as well. About six of us began meeting on Tuesday mornings at my house, and eventually we outgrew (in numbers of people not by individuals becoming huge!) my living room and moved to a classroom at Asbury. Because this particular group always does a video-based Bible study, I feel like I am more of a discussion leader than a lead teacher. I love studying the Word, and watching the Word change lives. I’m getting excited for the new Beth Moore study on James [that begins on January 10]. Cindy teaches each semester in RoadMap classes, as well as being a residential sales associate with RE/MAX Executives and the wife of Rev. Dick Read for 27 years. Katie Ruley, Mothers’ Fellowship I always had a strong urging when I feel God has shown me something, I feel compelled to pass it on to others. When I get excited about the Good News of Christ, I just want to share it! I am really a student at heart, and that love of learning gives me the motivation to lead others.

Joe Spence, Financial Peace University I help facilitate the Financial Peace Class. I began this because there is a great need in this country for personal responsibility concerning our own finances. Our culture and government teaches us that we can have whatever we want now and worry about the consequences later. Yet, as we all know, there is always a time when the “crows come home to roost,” and we have to face our debt. Dave Ramsey has produced a 13-week class that presents a common-sense yet scripturally-based approach on how to get your personal finances in order. My personal satisfaction is in helping those who truly want to refocus their lives. I get an opportunity to discuss real-life situations as well as share some of my own personal experiences. Not everyone attending class is a follower of Christ, and this gives me the opportunity to share my faith and plant seeds of hope, which may be missing from a family who is struggling financially. Joe has been teaching FPU since the Spring of 2011. He is the Director of Operations for Asbury UMC and has been an Asbury member for 30 years. He also worked as a handyman for our Home Improvement ministry for many years. Cindy Read, Beth Moore: James I have been involved in weekly Bible studies at Asbury since 1980. Some of that time I have been a teacher….but always I am a student! About 13 years ago, we moved to our current home. At that time I felt prompted to invite my female neighbors to come to my home for a weekly Bible study. Two responded that they would like that. That seemed a little small to me, so I

My first experience in leading a Bible study was when I led a small group in my home through Purpose Driven Life in 2003. I had just had my third baby, no housekeeper, three kids under the age of five, but it was an act of obedience for me. I am so glad I did it, because it was such a blessing! The summer after that, the Women’s Council wanted to have a summer Bible study for women, and they asked me to lead it. We had 20 ladies in the study of Experiencing God that first summer. The number of participants tripled the next summer. Women were so hungry for the Word that the ladies’ summer Bible study continued to grow every year. Mothers’ Fellowship had been led for many years by Esther Gene Morrison and nurtured so many young women to dig into the Bible. I had been a participant way back in 1999, and in the fall of 2010, Esther Gene asked me to take the reins and lead it. It is a great honor to do for others what has been done for me. It keeps me accountable for my own walk, and I just love women and women’s ministry – it brings me joy! Katie is a stay-at-home mom of four children ages 5–12 years and COO of the Ruley household. She has led Bible study every year since that first one in 2003. She leads the Mothers’ Fellowship Bible Study on Tuesday mornings.

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

WINTER 2012

for the journey of life

STEPS TO ENROLLMENT 1. Register online at www.asburytulsa.org under Quicklinks/Adults/RoadMap or call the Registration Hotline at 918.392.1191. 2. Pay and pickup your books on January 8 in the main foyer of the main building. Instructors will be available for you to meet and ask questions. Materials can also be picked up on the first day of class. To insure that you will have materials by the first class session, register at least two weeks prior to the start date. Registrations will be accepted up to the start of the class, but no guarantees will be made concerning your materials.

COURSES Precept: Zechariah Nancy Staab They shall be my people and I will be their God. What will happen on a day when the Lord is King over all the earth? There is a future time of restoration coming for the righteous. Are you ready? èè Tuesdays, 9:30–11:30 am, Room 2820 èè January 10–February 21 èè Cost $20.00

àà BIBLICAL STUDIES Precept: Acts – The Holy Spirit Unleashed in You Nancy Baxter Miracles...boldness...courage to preach the Word of God. The power of God to witness for Christ in often hostile circumstances. Learn how to depend on the power of the Holy Spirit from the Lord’s work among the first believers. èè Tuesdays, 9:30–11:30 am, Room 2821 èè January 10–April 24 èè Cost $12.00

Precept: Malachi Nancy Staab In Malachi, God says that He is keeping a book of remembrance for those who fear Him and esteem His Name. Malachi prepares us for the day the Lord opens the windows of heaven and pours out His blessing. èè Tuesdays, 9:30–11:30 am, Room 2820 èè February 28–March 20 èè Cost $10.00

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Beth Moore: James – Mercy Triumphs Cindy Read - mornings DeeDee Geddie - evenings James, Jesus’ own brother, started out as a skeptic. See how one glimpse of the resurrected Savior turned an unbeliever into a disciple. Bible scholars compare James to the prophet Amos. Topics in this study include: joy, hardship, faith, reversal of fortunes for rich and poor, wisdom, gifts from above, single-mindedness, the dangers of the tongue, humility and prayer. èè Tuesdays, 9:30–11:30 am, Room 2818 or 6:30–8:15 pm, Room 2820 èè January 10–February 28 èè Cost $20.00 Gospel of John Part 2: That you may know Jesus is Lord Gail Knox Apostle John refers to himself as “the disciple Jesus loves.” His intimate relationship with the Savior makes him our best source for getting to know Jesus up-close-and-personal. This easy-tolearn Inductive study from Word Within International takes us right into the midst of our Lord’s inner circle where we will come to know Him as never before. For many, it’s a life-changing study. Moderate lesson preparation involved. Workbook provided. Part 1 not a prerequisite. èè Tuesdays, 6:30–8:30 pm, Room 2821 èè January 10–April 3 èè Cost $15.00 Precept: Exodus Dee Paige After 400 years in captivity, Israel’s cry rose up to God and He remembered His covenant promise. This state of bondage marks the beginning of an amazing story of God’s deliverance through a man named Moses. èè Wednesdays, 6:00–8:00 pm, Room 2820 èè January 11–March 29 èè Cost $25.00

Wednesdays 6–7:30 Room 1508 January 11–July 26 Year-round, takes a break in August No cost

Raising a Modern Day Knight Steve Brown What does it mean to be a man? Moreover, how does a father instill these qualities in his son? Using as an example the process by which a boy moved through the medieval stages of knighthood, Robert Lewis identifies parallel stages for today’s fathers to create ceremonies to commemorate significant milestones in a young man’s journey toward becoming a modern day knight. Additionally, each attendee will receive a plan that includes discussion points for the different stages of a son’s journey to manhood. èè Wednesdays, 6:00–8:00 pm, Room 2500 èè January 11–February 29 èè Cost $16.00 Men’s Study – “Half Time” & “Courageous” Brock King and Greg Ruley “Half Time” is for men going from Success to Significance in their life. “Courageous” is based on the movie about men making the bold/courageous choice to lead their families in a Godly manner. èè Wednesdays, 6:00–8:00 pm, Room 2821 èè January 11–April 25 èè No cost

àà WOMEN

Believers’ Bible Study Don Herrold Study of Select Imperatives of the New Testament: Meanings, Objectives, & Applications. èè èè èè èè

àà MEN

Mothers’ Fellowship Katie Ruley Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl teaches ordinary women how they can step out of the drudgery of their spiritual to-do lists and experience a dynamic and intimate life with God. èè Tuesdays, 9:45–11:30 am, Parlor(1900) èè January 10–May 8 èè Cost $12.00

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Women of the Word Darlene Johnson Open Bible study focusing on the practical application of the Scripture sermon series. èè èè èè èè

Wednesdays, 10:00–11:00 am, Room 2319 Ongoing No childcare No cost

GriefShare Ann Peterson and Tom Berry GriefShare is a special weekly video series and support group for people who are grieving the death of someone close to them. It’s a safe place to be around people who understand what you are feeling. At GriefShare, you’ll learn valuable information about recovering from your grief and renewing your hope for the future. Group sessions are offered three times per year. You may begin attending this group at any time...each video session is “selfcontained.” èè Wednesdays, 6:00–7:30 pm, Room 1507 èè January 18–April 25 èè Cost $15.00

àà PARENTING Raising Self-Reliant Children in a Self-Indulgent World Betty Higgins Tired of defiant attitudes and power struggles with your kids? Want to learn ways to handle the frustrations of parenting, to have peace in your home? Want to know What Would Jesus Do As A Parent? This class is guaranteed to be interactive, fun and engaging. If you desire to be in healthy relationship with your child, and they are between 1 day and 14 years old, this course is for you. Based on the book by H. Stephen Glenn.

Relationship Matters! Six Christian Counselors TBA 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. èè Wednesdays, 6:00–8:00 pm, Room 2818 èè January 11–February 15 èè No cost

èè Wednesdays, 6:00–8:00 pm, Room 1504 èè January 11–February 15 èè Cost $15.00

àà FINANCIAL àà CARE Sexual Abuse Recovery Brad and Cheryl Tuggle Sexual abuse doesn’t just affect us as children – the ripples spread throughout our lifetime. But there is hope! If you’d like to be part of a small group this January that is committed to recovery, healing, and a life of freedom, call 918.392.1134 to sign up. All calls confidential. èè Tuesdays, 6:00–8:00 pm, Venue yellow room èè January 10–April 10 èè Cost $20.00

Financial Peace University Rick Boothe on Sundays and Joe Spence on Thursdays This program is not a quick fix for financial worries. It is a 13week program which requires real commitment. By teaching you money management basics, FPU can give you hope and provide a solid plan to walk you from the financial bondage of debt into true Financial Peace. Attend one of the two free orientations from 6-7 pm 1/12/12 or 1/15/12. èè èè èè èè

Sundays or Thursdays 6:00–8:00 pm, Room 2820 January 19–April 12 January 22–April 15 Cost $95.00

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

CARE AND MARRIAGE

Relationship Matters! by Charlene Giles For six Wednesdays beginning on Wednesday, January 11th, right after Virginia and Susan’s great dinner, you will have an opportunity to attend workshops/discussions facilitated by Christian counselors and other “experts”. Each week stands alone, so feel free to sign up for the class and just attend the classes that work for you. Come alone or bring a friend or family member. No one is required to share, but there will be time to express yourself if you so desire. Why does relationship matter so much? Because God fashioned us for relationships. He created a plan that depends on our relationship with Him through his Son. But more than that, He’s counting on the quality of our relationships to be so evident that others are attracted into connection with him. “A new command I give you: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciple, if you love one another.” John 13:34–35. No matter how much we love our parents, spouse, children and friends, there’s no better way to prove that love than to hone our communication skills. We can’t change anyone but ourselves. For example, we can learn to listen with active compassion, we can

learn to respect others without having to try to change them, and we can learn to ask for what we need or prefer in a clear, respectful way. We can also learn to resolve conflict maturely, and forgive others as God forgives us. “As emotionally mature Christian adults, we recognize that loving well is the essence of true spirituality. This requires that we experience connection with God, with ourselves, and with other people.” So states Peter Scazzero, author of Emotionally Healthy Spirituality. Unfortunately, studying books about these concepts is not enough. We need to learn to live it out. According to Rod Giles, official “emcee” for the class, “Relationships are so important in our lives. There are many building blocks to having a healthy relationship, and each session will focus on one of these. Come to one or come to all sessions. It’s a great opportunity to learn from “experts”, and we will have a great time. Go to www. asburytulsa.org to sign up online. Click on the Roadmap icon and follow directions. Hope we see you there!”

Jan. 11 Listening Matters Sydney Black, LPC, LBP Jan. 18 Sex Matters Kim Beair, MS, LPC , NCC Jan. 25 Assertiveness Matters Jeff Rindt, MA, LPC Feb. 1 Conflict Matters Maribeth Blunt, MHR, LPC Feb. 8 Forgiveness Matters Lee Martin, MA, LPC Feb. 15 Step Family Matters Margo and Mark Hanne (teachers of Stepfamily Classes)

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Become More Than…! by Bob and Liz Miller

iz: I have been a Methodist my whole life. I attended a small Methodist church not far from where I lived for over 20 years. But God was nudging me; the time had come to move on and find another church that I could call home. I visited several different churches, but I knew I wasn’t “home” yet. I saw an article in the newspaper about Asbury moving to a new location, one that would be closer to where I lived. The time had come to check out Asbury. Could that possibly be my new “home”? When I arrived, I heard singing and realized the 9:15 service had already started. I slipped in and sat through the whole service. I even stayed for the 11:00 service that day. Pastor Tom saw a bug crawling up the steps of the front altar and commented it was a “Baptist bug spying on us.” I loved the fact that the preacher had a sense of humor. And I kept coming back. I had been attending Asbury only a few weeks when Pastor Tom invited those who wanted to find out more about Asbury to come to Exploration where we could meet all the pastors and learn more about Asbury itself. After that meeting, I decided to just dive headfirst and join the church; I have now been a member for seven years. During this time, I had remarried (a Methodist of course!) but he wasn’t ready to attend Asbury with me. Yet. Bob: Although I was brought up in the church and considered myself a Christian, I had not been a steady churchgoer for many years. After joining Asbury, Liz invited me to attend; I was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable I felt in such a huge church. I attended for over a year before I finally decided to go to Exploration and find out more. Once you attend Exploration, the next step is to meet with a pastor to discuss joining Asbury. I chose Dick Read. We discussed many things, including finding a community to join and really get connected. Bob and Liz: Dick Read told us about a new community that was being formed called Generations. We attended the first meeting one Sunday morning in the Parlor and knew from the start that it was what we were looking for. At that first meeting, they talked about the Generations Community volunteering for different projects. That sealed the deal—this community was for us. Even though Liz had volunteered to help with various things in the church, she still wasn’t getting to know others. But volunteering with others in the community would accomplish that. Volunteering was something that was very close to our hearts, a desire that God had given us as a way to advance His kingdom while meeting some very practical needs. The newly-formed Generations community chose Pearl’s Hope as their first class project, and we’ve continued to be involved with them. We help with Christmas gifts for the children; we have done

demolition work for one of the houses and helped move some of the women at Pearl’s Hope. We have even gathered undies and socks for their use. Talk about meeting practical needs!

You have to find a community to make friends in the church and get connected.

Volunteering as a class led to both of us branching out into even more things. Bob works almost every Saturday with Habitat for Humanity. Liz chose the food bank as her personal project on Second Saturday. Our volunteering reaches from Easter egg hunts at the church to Christmas parties for the less fortunate, from working at McAuliffe grade school to 2nd Saturday to wrapping Christmas gifts. We greet on the third and fourth Sundays, and that is always a treat for us to see new and old friends. Liz also regularly visits Asbury members at a nursing home in Jenks. There are always volunteer opportunities available—something special God has just for you to utilize the gifts within you to meet the needs of others. But there is more to Generations than just our volunteer efforts. We also have at least half a dozen excellent, well-versed instructors. So we are able to grow spiritually while we fellowship with members of the Body who are also our friends. We have also attended small group classes within our community, such as The Truth Project, The Power of a Whisper and Hole in the Gospel. This has given us the opportunity to delve more deeply into the Bible and a much deeper understanding and appreciation of God’s Word. Our friendships now stretch across many different generations. Every person has led us to a stronger faith in God and a greater love for our neighbors. Pastor Tom is correct—you have to find a community to make friends in the church and get connected. Generations has helped us get connected in Asbury. What we didn’t realize was how much stronger our faith in God has grown and how much stronger it has made our marriage. All because we joined Asbury and found a community of friends and more. Much more.

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

by Dee Gibbs

“Love your neighbor as yourself.” What a difficult task. “Lord who is my neighbor?” I have pondered those words for years. I have to tell you that it has always been in my heart to make others feel special but being codependent, I have often loved others “more than myself” and then become bitter and angry towards them for all the sacrifices I made for them. God has been at work in my life for over 20 years to teach me to love myself and others in a healthy manner. So back in May when my daughter and I left the country for Argentina for a vacation…I certainly wasn’t expecting God to use it to teach me about these scriptures again. It was actually on our return to Oklahoma that we learned some devastating news. We had no cell phone coverage and very little email contact for over two weeks, and we were anxious to connect with friends and family upon arriving at the Dallas airport. The excitement was quickly sobered as we heard account after account of the tornado that had torn through Missouri. My first thought was…“Lord, what would my children have done if their home had been destroyed… who would have been there to help them?” The thoughts swirled… “What if my home was no longer standing when I got back?” “As a single mom, where would I go?” I thought of my grandson and him having no toys…no familiar blanket. It broke my heart for the families that had been displaced.

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

But NOTHING prepared me for the pictures I saw. When I heard Asbury was sending people over I tried to clear my schedule on a Tuesday or Friday for several months, but there kept being roadblocks. Then one of my friends had a birthday. She wanted to do the zip lines in Branson, and so we did. I was talking lots with God about maybe going to Joplin for my birthday, but I didn’t have a clue where to begin or how to go about it. Then the idea came, a quiet whisper--rent a coach bus and take a crew over to help. Fifty people for my 50th birthday. I got so excited! I designed T-shirts for us all to wear…started thinking about the lunch I could provide and, of course, cupcakes!

My version of James 2:15-17 says this: “If you see a brother in need and do nothing about it what good are you? If I have faith that God will provide, yet do nothing to offer my help… my faith is dead. Let me show the world the faith I have in God by my actions and choices.” There was one “small” problem….money. You see I am a missionary--a local missionary. I set about telling God my problem and asking Him if it was truly His idea because if it was, I knew He would provide. I began putting down deposits and waiting.

Someone immediately stepped up to cover the t-shirts when they heard the idea! But it wasn’t until several days before we left that I received a birthday check for the exact amount of the bus (and that person did not even know about the trip at all!) I wish I could tell you that that was the only problem I had but there were many. When I went to order the t-shirts, the company that had agreed to do them was swamped and unsure whether they could get them out on time (but they did!) And my contact in Joplin for our work assignment had computer trouble and lost our information so there was no assignment for us. We ended up connecting with Habitat for Humanity who “just happened” to be doing “Ten for Joplin,” ten houses for ten families in ten days. Finally the first round of flu hit and a lot of my gung-ho friends had to drop out. Others had to drop due to family commitments. It definitely wasn’t going to be fifty for my fiftieth….more like 15. I was disappointed, of course, but I just persevered. Those that could go would work hard, and we would make a difference! The night before, we were still waiting for details to let my crew know when and where. It felt disorganized and hectic. I had to trust God with the details and trust Him to ease my very anxious thoughts. I prayed moment by moment as I fought anxiety. My best friend, Michelle, held my hand and reminded me of the scriptures I needed to hear. Finally the day arrived. A storm blew in the night before dropping temperatures to close to freezing. Four in the morning came way too early. I added extra warm layers to my outfit! The bus was leaving at 5 am in order for us to be in Joplin by 7 am. Despite the setbacks and tension, the excitement began to rise. Today was the day, and I looked forward to how God would

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use us. I wondered if anyone else would be sick and have to miss; I prayed for our safety as I had for the past month.

COMMENTS FROM THOSE WHO WENT WITH DEE

Once there, we were outfitted with helmets, and our group was assigned to get a walkie talkie to coordinate with “grand central.” You see, God had timed us to be there on the wall raising day! Each of the ten houses were to signal when they were ready to raise the walls and at the blast of the horn, we all raised a wall at the same time. What an unforgettable, moving moment. Initially, I was disappointed that we weren’t all assigned to one house but hearing the familiar voices over the radio saying, “House one ready!” House two ready!” etc. was pretty cool! It was special for the families as well; they were out there helping on their very own house!

Jim Asbury: This whole event started with the desire to participate in celebrating a friend’s birthday and it ended feeling like GOD used each of us to help build the wall in Jerusalem.

The day warmed up. We hammered and hammered and hammered! I drove more crooked nails (that had to be pulled out) than straight ones, but I was diligent and got better and better as the day progressed. By lunch, we had all worked up an appetite and met at the mess tent. We all shared stories of our houses progress and after lunch toured each house, dropping the workers off along the way. The day went great and on the way home, we toured what had been done by Extreme Home Makeover the week before. I heard about their project “Seven homes in seven days” right after I rented the coach bus. I didn’t think I had a chance of being chosen but I went ahead and applied on the Internet to serve with them also. When I told them it was my 50th birthday they invited me to come and bring 15 friends. I was thrilled but my finances were already stretched, and it seemed impossible. I spoke with Asbury, and they had supplies they needed delivered to a church and were willing to put me in a van to get there with my helpers if I would drop it off. So in the end I was in Joplin two weekends back to back—serving our brothers and sisters (some already saved, some may be saved by the power of the witness of our loving response). I trust God to use it for His glory; it was His idea after all. My version of James 2:15-17 says this: “If you see a brother in need and do nothing about it what good are you? If I have faith that God will provide, yet do nothing to offer my help… my faith is dead. Let me show the world the faith I have in God by my actions and choices.” We all have choices. Not everyone is needed in Joplin. But if you are called to work there, go and help. And if you are called to Africa, do your part. To those who God asks to work on the Habitat for Humanity houses in Tulsa, do it with gusto. WHATEVER the Holy Spirit places on your heart to do, do it with all your heart. I will continue to pray for the restoration of the Joplin area. God has placed that on my heart. What is He placing on your heart? Where is your faith shown through your action and your choices? Who is “YOUR” neighbor?

I hadn’t been to Joplin to see the damage from last spring’s storm. As we watched the sun rise, light began to show me a picture that told a story. Hundreds of people had come for a day of raising the walls on 10 homes. When you looked at the whole picture,10 homes wasn’t much, but we focused on that, or nothing would get done. The excitement of wondering what we would do spread among everyone waiting in line to check in. The results of organizing really worked as the hundreds of volunteers got started. I was confused, excited, anxious and glad all in one. The plan to raise one wall on each home all at one time helped each team focus on simple accomplishment. Once this took place, the team I was on was off to the races. I had a purpose and felt a part of a team. With this we had a goal to get this house built. The time went quick and I had to leave before our team finished framing the roof. It didn’t seem to matter, because I got to do a small thing for a bigger purpose and that made me thankful. I forgot about my friend’s birthday until we got back in the bus. Funny how that worked; I didn’t get her a gift or a card and yet she made it seem like I’d given her the best gift ever....she made each of us feel that way. Martin Imrisek: Witnessing the devastation first hand was one of the most humbling experiences I’ve ever had. I felt blessed to be part of something that was giving back to the community, especially the families receiving the homes. Dee’s act of compassion for the people of Joplin..... organizing and bringing us all up there...for her birthday!!...was one of the most unselfish acts I’ve ever known, and is a testament to her Christian Spirit and devotion to the Lord. Andrea Livingston: It was so awesome to hear the cheer as the first wall of ten houses all went up at once. The biggest highlight was interacting with the homeowners who lost everything and giving them one of the buttons saying ‘God loves you’ from Asbury youth ministry. We gave them hope, and they could see the love of Christ in action. The stories on the bus on the way home pretty much all echoed that same refrain. Thanks Dee.

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

VOLUNTEERS

Reaching Beyond the Need by Joan Henning

oel Crum has participated in Home Improvement Ministry for about three years. In October he invited his neighbor, John Figgis, to join him. John is also an Asbury member who has a heart for helping seniors, so Home Improvement was a good fit for his interests and values. That Saturday morning, they gathered in the Asbury Family Center Café for coffee, rolls and fellowship. That time of fellowship has become a significant part of the morning for the volunteers, some coming early to visit with friends they don’t cross paths with on Sunday morning. Then at 9:00, after prayer, it’s time to roll. The men (and women) gather up their work orders and head out to their assignments. They also take a flower with them which will be presented when they arrive at the home to do the work. Joel and John were headed to see Gretchen Evans. John thought the name was familiar and recognized her as soon as she opened the door--they sat only a few chairs apart in the Chancel Choir. The first thing John did was present the flower to Gretchen. Such a simple thing, but this small gesture makes these ladies feel so very special.

Home Improvement ministry leaders understand everyone has their own home to tend to. That is why Home Improvement is only scheduled five times a year. Just a few hours are deeply appreciated by these Asbury women. But the volunteers will tell you that they are the ones who are blessed. James 1:27 says “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress.” Last October there were 29 requests for help and not enough volunteers. Twelve ladies had to be notified that no one was available to come to their home. The next workday is Saturday, February 18. You can make a difference! Join the team in the Café area at 8:30 am and be blessed by helping others. If you would like to talk to someone, you can call Michiel at 918.640.4382 or Del at 918.798.1835.

Gretchen’s needs were simple: she needed filters replaced as well as the flashing around her back door. As they were working and visiting with Gretchen, they were also looking for anything else needing their attention.

James 1:27 says “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress.” A repairman had previously cut a piece from Gretchen’s wood floor to use as a sample to match something, but he never came back. Joel and John went to Lowe’s, bought some wood and repaired the hole in the floor. John later returned and stained the piece of wood that they had added to the floor so that it would match the rest. It had never occurred to Gretchen to ask for that repair. Gretchen was a very happy lady. She felt special receiving a flower when they arrived, she enjoyed being able to visit with them and tell them a story or two while they were there. Having the hole in the floor repaired was a bonus. The guys saw a need and took care of it. These are the simple maintenance “honey-dos” most men do around their own homes. They don’t require any particular expertise or certification. But these Asbury ladies live alone, and many do not have family in the area that can help with these tasks.

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

GRANDPA JOHN

Mahala – Sister of Paul by John C. Westervelt

y name is Mahala. I was born in Tarsus of Cilicia, 350 miles north of Jerusalem on the north shore of the eastern edge of the Mediterranean Sea. My father and mother, both of the tribe of Benjamin, originally lived in Gischaia, Galilee, twelve miles northwest of the Sea of Galilee. My father, as his father before him, worked with leather and made tents. When my grandfather was a boy, the Romans conquered Israel. From that time on, a Roman could conscript a Jew to work for him. When my father and mother were newlyweds, Flavius, a Roman centurion stationed in Gischala, conscripted my father and mother and took them with him to Tarsus. Flavius and his one hundred soldiers would maintain order in that city that was at the center of the east and west trade routes. Flavius felt indebted to my father for his craftsmanship in making tents for his soldiers, so within a year he granted my father Roman citizenship. Therefore, Paul and I were born Roman citizens. As a young girl, I thought it was normal to live in a ghetto of Jews in a Roman occupied city. By the time my older brother Paul was ready to begin school at the synagogue, my father decided to move to Jerusalem where Paul could study under Gamaliel. I remember many years later overhearing a conversation between my mother and her friend Hannah. “Abigail, so good to see you. It has been a long time and we were such good friends when our boys were students together at the synagogue. Tell me about your family. I remember your son Paul always won the school’s writing contests. He seemed so gifted. Has he used his writing skills professionally?”

“Hannah, Paul was a good boy and a natural leader. However, I have been disappointed on two counts. One, he never married so he gave me no grandsons. And secondly, he has written nothing noteworthy. Oh, Paul has written some letters which he tells me are read by the churches he has started.” When I was eighteen, I married Jareb and started a family. Jessica and Jobina were followed a few years later by the birth of a son Eli. Eli attended the same synagogue that his father and Uncle Paul had. I seldom heard from Paul who was always on some sort of a journey all across the world. I knew about a group who called themselves Christians that met in homes in Jerusalem. They believed that Jesus was our Messiah. Jesus’ brother James was their leader in Judea. My friends who had joined the Christians told me that my brother Paul was their missionary to the rest of the world. One day Jareb came home and told the children and me that Paul had come to Jerusalem to see James. A mob had formed demanding Paul’s life for teaching that Jesus was the messiah. When the mob got out of control, Roman soldiers took Paul into their barracks for his protection. And what was worse, a group of forty vigilantes had taken an oath to not eat or drink until they killed Paul. As these words left the tongue of my husband, I covered my face with my hands to catch my tears, which now ran uncontrolled down my cheeks. My children had been perfectly quiet. Now Eli came to me, took my hands in his small hands, and said, “Mother, I can save Paul.” “Oh, my son, how?

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“I can walk into the barracks and talk to the soldiers.” “But you are only thirteen.” At this point, Jareb said, “He may be right, for only a boy could reach the Roman commander.” After hugging me and looking up at his father, Eli walked out the door and down the street that led to the Roman barracks. When he arrived, the soldiers recognized him as the boy that played in the streets nearby. Eli asked a soldier, “May I see Paul?” The soldier led him to Paul. After Eli told Paul about the vigilantes, Paul asked a Centurion to take Eli to Lysias, the Roman Commander. The Commander took Eli by the hand and walked a few steps to where they could talk in private. After hearing about the plan for murder, the commander squatted down, looked eye-to-eye at Eli, and said, “You have done a brave thing. I shall do my part to protect Paul.” Eli, with a broad smile on his face, said, “Thank you for saving my uncle’s life.” When my pastor Tom Harrison preached about Acts 23, he said, “The Bible has a large body of ‘no-name’ characters.” I decided to give Eli a name and tell his story.

Other stories at www.jwestervelt.com

MUSIC

The Bows of Holly by Marty Morris

ne hundred forty-seven children in Perfectly Blessed t-shirts filled the sanctuary with excitement, energy and music on Sunday night, December 4, to present the Children’s Choir Christmas Pageant, the Bows of Holly. It was an evening they had been preparing for since late September. Each year as we approach that evening I think, “This could be a disaster or it could be wonderful.” Thankfully the Lord steps in and makes it wonderful every time! The story was about a girl, Holly, who wanted to help those in need, but when she got publicity about it, she lost sight of what she was doing. Lindsay Saul played Holly. The Saturday before the pageant she was feeling terrible. Her mom ended up taking her to Urgent Care where she was diagnosed with strep throat. Being the trooper she is, nothing stopped Lindsay from being there, though she had a tough time singing! Jordan Garrett played a reluctant “bad” kid who was sure they would all go to jail for stealing Holly’s donated items. At the dress rehearsal on Sunday afternoon Jordan was feeling sick at her stomach. She sat through most of that rehearsal until she finally felt well enough to act. She did not eat pizza with the choir just before the show!

We are blessed to be a blessing; we’ve received so we can give. And we must tell the world all God has done because we have been blessed to bless someone. This year we had “real” scenery which was built by Craig Jones, who also displayed his acting talents by portraying Mayor Clyde

Poindexter in our show. He designed the scenery so that we could have two scenes by making it usable on both sides. Kay Hays, a talented former art teacher painted the garage side complete with tools, trash cans and a mouse hole. Andee Thompson, a wonderfully gifted artist who studied with Kay and is a product of Asbury’s children’s choirs herself, painted the alley side complete with graffiti.

“Carry your candle; run to the darkness, seek out the hopeless, confused and torn. Go light your world.” We asked every choir child to bring one can of food for the play to use as props. Most everyone did. On Monday of the week following the pageant, we added all those canned goods to the pantry of Restore Hope Ministries. Each year when I choose the musical for the pageant, my first concern is the truths the songs teach. This year’s music will stay in the children’s hearts forever: “We are blessed to be a blessing; we’ve received so we can give. And we must tell the world all God has done because we have been blessed to bless someone.” Children’s choirs is not just about preparing a pageant or playing games or enjoying musical activities. We strive weekly to teach our children about God through the powerful tool of music. In the dark times of life, we remember what we have written on our hearts. I am hoping that our children will remember the words to the songs of the pageant, in particular this one: “Carry your candle; run to the darkness, seek out the hopeless, confused and torn. Go light your world.”

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

MUSIC

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

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.

Hot Artichoke-Spinach Dip 210-oz. pkg. frozen spinach, thawed and drained 14.5-oz. can artichoke quarters or pieces 8-oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened 1 c. Parmesan cheese

1 ½ c. real mayonnaise 1 T. lemon juice 1 sm. can green chilies, undrained 1 ½ tsp. minced garlic

Preheat oven to 350⁰. Mix all ingredients together then put in baking dish (medium casserole or pie-size). Bake about 45 minutes or until bubbly. Serve hot with crackers or chips. Submitted by Shanna O’Connell: I saw this recipe on Channel 6’s noon news program several years ago. The original recipe and another I found were similar; one called for cream cheese and no mayo and the other called for mayo and no cream cheese. I liked both ingredients and put them together. I was so happy with the outcome that is how I have been making it ever since! Everyone loves it, especially around the holidays and football season. It’s hot and yummy and really good with pita chips. If it comes out a bit oily, I suggest using less mayo. It’s super easy to make. You can mix it up a day ahead and throw it in the oven when you’re ready. My kids will even munch on it cold. Enjoy!!!

Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork 1 med. onion, chopped 1/2 c. ketchup 1/4 c. cider vinegar 1/4 c. packed brown sugar 1/4 c. tomato paste 2 T. Worcestershire sauce

2 T. yellow mustard 2 T. paprika 1 ½ tsp. salt 1 ¼ tsp. ground black pepper 4 lbs. boneless pork shoulder blade roast, cut into 4 pieces 12 soft sandwich buns

In a 4.5 to 6-quart slow cooker, stir together onion, ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard and spices. Add pork to sauce mixture and turn to coat well. Cook on low setting 8 – 10 hours until pork is very tender. Transfer pork to large bowl. Turn setting to high on slow cooker; cover and heat sauce to boiling to thicken and reduce slightly. While sauce boils, with 2 forks, pull pork into shreds. Return shredded pork to slow cooker and toss with sauce to combine. Spoon pork onto buns. Submitted by Susan Gelwick I have made this numerous times and I always get rave reviews. The first time I made it, our daughters and their husbands were coming for a visit. I wanted something I could have ready when they arrived. It was perfect. I found the recipe in a Good Housekeeping magazine. I follow the directions exactly as written. After cooking, I shred it, pile it on a soft hamburger bun, and serve it with warmed-up Head Country Barbeque Sauce, which is made in Oklahoma, for a little extra yummy taste!! I put it in the crock-pot for all day, finish it up when I get home, and leftovers can be frozen. Our daughters have made it for friends coming over to watch football games, and they have had lots of compliments, too. The original recipe shows the sandwich on a plate with a dill pickle spear and classic potato chips -- exactly like I serve it! It really is as good as it sounds!

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

OPPORTUNITIES

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

NEW ADDITIONS TO THE LIBRARY

The Asbury Library is a wonderful resource. Thank you to all who continue to contribute books to our Library.

SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP

8:00 am 9:15 am 9:15 am 11:00 am 11:00 am

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

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...

FREE! Suitable for framing.

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

ADULT DISCIPLESHIP COMMUNITIES

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 SURGERY OR HOSPITALIZATION SCHEDULED?

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. 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.

BIBLE STUDY Check out the new Winter 2012 RoadMap course offerings in the brochure at Welcome centers or online. Register online at www.asburytulsa.org, under Quicklinks/Adult/Roadmap or call the Registration Hotline at 918.392.1191. Pay for and pickup your books on January 8 in the main foyer of the main building. Instructors will be available for you to meet and ask questions. Materials can also be picked up on the first day of class. To insure that you will have materials by the first class session, register at least two weeks prior to the start date. Registrations will be accepted up to the start of the class, but no guarantees will be made concerning your materials.

CARE AND SUPPORT SEXUAL ABUSE RECOVERY

Sexual abuse doesn’t just affect us as children—the ripples spread 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) • Childcare available • 918.392.1134 to sign up (all calls confidential)

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

OPPORTUNITIES

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

GriefShare is a weekly support group for people who are grieving the loss of a loved one. The group offers a comfortable environment where the emotions and process of grief are understood and welcomed. Participants will learn practical strategies for grief recovery through the highly acclaimed GriefShare video series, study guide and group discussion. Individuals may begin attending this group at any time. 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 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 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 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 ASBURY BEAR BAGS

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

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

OPPORTUNITIES

MISSION MINDED CLASS

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

Parents who are involved in RoadMap classes during these core hours will have childcare provided for children 6 weeks–12 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 WEDNESDAY NIGHT LIVE

Join us for worship in the chapel—kid style. We combine music, high energy and a Bible lesson in a setting that encourages kids to learn about worship. Our lessons will tie right into what we are doing on Sunday morning. If you were registered for the fall semester, you will not need to complete a new form • Wednesdays beginning January 11, 7:00-8:00 pm • Mason Chapel TAKE FLYTE, 4TH, 5TH AND 6TH GRADERS

Join us as we fly through a series made just for you—“FLYTE: faith, life together” Bible study is made just for you. We’ll talk about heaven, family and more. Discover for yourself how to apply the Bible to your life. Your early registration helps us have the correct number of study books. • Wednesdays beginning January 11, 7:00-8:00 pm • Room 2901 • Contact Abby Sluice at 918.392.4583 ODD SUNDAY FOR 6TH GRADERS

Grab your swimsuit and towel, and meet us where the water is warm year around. (One piece swimsuit or full coverage tankini). Come make a splash after church for a swimming party at Miller Swim School. For more information, contact Stephanie at 918.392.1171 or slong@asburytulsa.org. • January 22, 3:00-5:00 pm • Miller Swim School

4th-6th graders can come explore mission opportunities in the Tulsa community. We hear from different agencies one week and then help by creating something to meet their needs the next. • Weekly beginning January 11, 6:00-6:50 pm • Room 2909 • 918.392.1161 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. • January 15, 12:30 pm • Rock 2901 • $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 • Faith Zone • Contact Eryn Wallis 918.392.4588 SPECIAL VOLUNTEERS FOR SPECIAL KIDS!

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

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. • January 26, 7:30–8:45 pm • Venuet68 east lobby • Contact Jon Odom at jodom@asburytulsa.org

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

OPPORTUNITIES

ATTENTION ENGAGED COUPLES

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 We were recently asked, “why don’t you have volunteers holding the doors open on Sunday morning?” The simple answer is we have very few volunteers willing to do it. Most say Asbury is a friendly church, yet we don’t have enough friendly people willing to serve on Sunday mornings when the need is great to welcome folks who have possibly had little contact with people during the week. We need new volunteers to serve in a hospitality role as greeters and at Connection Corner where many people have their first experience at Asbury. The Gazebo needs new volunteers as well. Are you one of those friendly people? There are special events in early 2012 that will require many smiling servants. • Call Joan at 918.392.1176 to volunteer

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

Do you miss date night with your spouse? Try 8 Great Dates with your Mate. You attend a short presentation and then have dinner out. Sign up on January 15 at South Lobby. • Second Thursday of each month (except June), beginning February 9 and ending in October, 6:00 pm • Room 1502 • Childcare available • Small one-time fee

MEMBERSHIP ASBURY EXPLORATION

Come to a lunch/class to learn more about becoming a member of Asbury. • Sunday, January 8, 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

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

MARRIAGE & FAMILY

8 GREAT DATES WITH YOUR MATE

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).

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

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! • January 14, 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 OJT (OVERCOMING JOB TRANSITIONS)

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.

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

OPPORTUNITIES

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

PRAYER ALTAR PRAYER

MUSIC 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

ASBURY YOUTH ORCHESTRA

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. 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. PRAYER ROOM DAYS AND TIMES

• Wednesdays, 5:30–6:00 pm, Orchestra room

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

PERPETUAL LIGHT

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

To obtain door codes, call Pam in the Adult Ministries office at 918.392.4589.

CELEBRATION RINGERS

• Tuesdays, 4:30–5:30 pm • Handbell room

RECOVERY ASBURY POWER & LIGHT CO.

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

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

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

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

SENIOR ADULTS SENIOR ADULT TRIP

Come join Asbury Senior Adults as they travel to Tulsa Technology Center in Broken Arrow to watch the silent movie "Speedy." This movie was nominated for an Academy Award in 1927-1928 and was filmed in New York. "Harold Speedy Swift" is a normal guy with an abnormally strong love for baseball. He has a terrific girlfriend named "Jane." She is level-headed and devoted and longs for a settled life, which would be good for Speedy, too! In the movie, you will see the real Babe Ruth, Yankee Stadium, Coney Island and the subway as they looked in 1928. Refreshments will be served in Asbury's Family Room at 5:30 pm; shuttles leave at 6:00 pm; movie starts at 7:00 pm.

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

OPPORTUNITIES

• • • •

Friday, January 20, meet at 5:30 pm Family Room Cost is $5.00 per person Deadline to register is January 13; registration forms available at south welcome desk

TWEENAGERS JANUARY PROGRAM AND LUNCH

Speaker to be determined. Music by Darlene Wagner. A donation to Tweenagers’ missions and expenses will be appreciated. Come and enjoy great entertainment, a delicious lunch, fun and fellowship. • Thursday, January 26, 10:30 am - 1:00 pm • CLC • Lunch $1.00; no advance reservation required 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 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

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

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 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 SPRING BREAK MISSIONS – MEDICAL PAPERWORK

Every student with their parent(s) as well as any leaders need to come ready to fill out the medical paperwork and sign in all the necessary spots. • January 22 or January 29 at either 9:15 am or 11:00 am • Venue68 HOUSTON SPRING BREAK MISSIONS TRAINING

All parents, students and leaders will be attend 2nd Saturday as part of their training. • February 11 • Venue68 HOUSTON SPRING BREAK MISSIONS LEADERS

You must attend this training meeting to get acquainted with and prepared for the trip itself. • February 5, 10:30 am-12:00 pm • Upstairs, Venue68 7TH AND 8TH SPRING BREAK MONEY DUE

• If you are going to Houston have a payment of $150 in by January 15 • If you are going to Red Bird, Kentucky have a payment of $175 in January 15 • Please make all checks out to Asbury 9TH-12TH GRADE SPRING BREAK MONEY DUE

• If you are going to Jamaica have a payment of $400 in by January 15 • If you are going to Guatemala have a payment of $500 in January 15 • Please make all checks out to Asbury 789 SUPER BOWL LUNCH

All 789 small groups will be going out to lunch together as a group. • February 5, meet after church, return about 2:00 pm • Venue Café • Cost is $8.00

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

OPPORTUNITIES

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, 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.

FROM THE YOUTH ROOM TO THE DORM ROOM

This seminar is for high school juniors and seniors and their parents. Come discuss the transition from high school to college and hear about practical ways to stay connected to Jesus and the church. • January 29, 6:00–7:30pm • Venue68

7 8 9 GRADE BIBLE STUDY

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 9TH GRADE PARENTS

Parents of 9th grade students are invited to come meet Todd Peterson and Amy Malnar with the High School Breakaway Ministry. Your student will be transitioning from junior high to high school ministry after spring break. • Sunday, February 5, 9:15 or 11:15 am • High school room at Venue68 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 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 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 7TH-12TH GRADE METRO WORSHIP @ VENUE 68

Come join youth from all over the city in a night to just worship Jesus. • The first Wednesday of every month beginning February 1, 7:00–8:30 pm • Venue68

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES NEW OPPORTUNITIES ARISE EACH MONTH!

Visit asburytulsa.org, click on “Get Involved” in the middle of the page, then click on “Volunteer.” If you have questions or would like to visit with someone about serving, just get in touch with us. • Contact Joan at 918.392.1176 or email jhenning@ asburytulsa.org

WOMEN UMW JANUARY UNIT LUNCHEON

The students of Walt Whitman Elementary, Asbury’s Partner in Education since 2004, return for another delightful program. Performing this year are 3rd-grade singers and 3rd-5th grade tumblers. Elaine Buxton, Whitman’s principal, will share an update about Whitman with us. Through the Asbury - Whitman partnership, called A&W (it’s better than root beer!), Asbury volunteers have come alongside the staff, students and families of Whitman to impact lives for the future. All are invited. Scripture: Matthew 19:14 • Thursday, January 5, 11:30 am – 1:00 pm • CLC • $7.00 for lunch, no reservations needed • Everyone invited 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

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

OPPORTUNITIES

WORSHIP 8:00 AM COMMUNION SERVICE

• • • •

Mason Chapel Traditional service with music led by Hart Morris Communion is served Dr. Tom Harrison preaches

9:15 AM CONTEMPORARY PRAISE & WORSHIP

• 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. Tom Harrison preaches 9:15 AM OPEN HOUSE WORSHIP

• 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 11:00 AM TRADITIONAL SERVICE

• 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 11:00 AM MODERN SERVICE

• Venue 68 • Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by Chris Cleveland and team • Sign interpreters for the deaf are offered 6:00 PM MODERN SERVICE

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

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

OPPORTUNITIES

Marriages, Births and Deaths MARRIAGES

DEATHS

• Sarah Stanford & Jason Freed married 9-18-2010

• Beverly Buis Calvert-Spears died 10-31-2011, wife of Robert Spears, mother of Cindy Calvert-Copeland (Bill) • Dorothy Beaird died 11-5-2011, wife of James Beaird, mother of David Hughes, grandmother of John, Michael, & Hillary Hughes • Donna Wicker died 11-5-2011, wife of Paul Wicker • William Lewis Camp died 11-13-2011 • Robert B Keasler died 11-14-2011, husband of Marguerite, father of Kenneth

Milestone Anniversaries 70 YEARS • Herman & Nellie Kloehr

20 YEARS 01/17/42

• Mel & Doroto Dietze 01/11/92

55 YEARS • Ed & Jan Hines 01/19/57 • Arlyn & Shirley Daering 01/26/57

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.

Ed & Jan Hines 01/19/57

Arlyn & Shirley Daering 01/26/57

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

OPPORTUNITIES

New Members

Judy Angell

Jim & Cheryl Shearrer

Jan Vierra

Jim Barnes

Linda Schluchter

Jay & Tammy Stokes with Tanner, Garrett and Piper

Josh & Becky Williamson with Lennox and Kendrix

TIDINGS, JA NUA RY 2012

Cathy Swadener

2012 is Asbury’s 50th Anniversary year! Asbury was chartered on February 4, 1962. Save these dates! Saturday, February 4 6:30–8:00 PM All church invited to a come and go reception in the church’s main foyer. Sunday, February 5 9:00 & 11:00 AM We will have only two 90-minute worship services, both in the main Sanctuary. Communion will be served by all the pastors. No services in other locations.

1:00– 3:00 PM Anniversary Banquet, including all charter members, current members 40+ years and all pastors and spouses.

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