100 Years Young by Asbury Church

november 2012

Enriched by Our 4-Generation Families

s we close this year marking Asbury’s 50th anniversary, it is time to look forward to new things. It is time to look at changes appropriate for growth in the next phase of our life as a church. Asbury has always been committed to developing mature disciples and to reaching outward. As with any organization we need to continually assess how we are doing and determine if adjustments are needed. In a number of columns this year I’ve provided updates on the study and assessment that has been underway starting in 2011. As a brief reminder, we’ve addressed the pressures of our culture that are not favorable for the local church, the declining participation in corporate worship and some ministries, and our desire to do better passing the Faith to younger generations. We’ve acknowledged the challenges associated with being an established mainline church having a congregation spanning four generations. From internal and external studies and conversations we have greatly increased our understanding of where Asbury is now and what has happened. From this understanding, it is clear that the current state of affairs is not acceptable for the future. It is also apparent that it is not sufficient to simply execute better those things we are already doing. Significant changes will be required over the next year or more. While that much is clear, and we are beginning to form ideas of the nature of changes required, it is still too early to have developed any details. However, some key concepts to guide our thoughts and actions have been determined. Before briefly presenting three central concepts, I will note that as these have been discussed in a few small settings some observations on responses are worth mentioning. It is, quite naturally, easy to hear these concepts and quickly assign meaning to them from our experience - and perhaps then discount them. They can be interpreted negatively or as suggesting a threat to what we are doing now. Our request, as you will be hearing more about these in the near future, is to invest in fully understanding the rich content associated with each one and why these concepts are seen as key to our future. Intergenerational is one of the concepts. It was one of the key insights from our study that Asbury has been operating as a multigenerational church trying to gracefully accommodate our wide range of ages. The distinction is this. By intergenerational we mean each person truly working with, engaging with, and working to understand the perspectives of every generation within the church. While Asbury has notable areas in which true intergenerational engagement is taking place, there is much more that is needed. Development refers to our desire that everything Asbury does, whether inside our walls or outside, results in real and lasting transformation. This has always been in Asbury’s DNA but only in the past few years have we formally taken it as a guiding principle. Within our church it means that we want to produce ever-maturing disciples and to see evidence of that growth. Looking outside our walls, whether local or global, our interest is in systemic influence for the Gospel and for those in social need. The concept of an outward mindset has generated the most interesting responses. Because Asbury has effective outreach ministries locally and globally, the assumption is made that we are very outward looking. However, that is only part of the picture. Those ministries are certainly included in outward but that is not the reason it was chosen as a key concept. A key finding from our study, including the Barna work, is the way we operate as individuals—that is how we engage with people on our campus and within Tulsa—is more accurately characterized as inward looking. As one example, we are attractive to and comfortable with the already-churched. Clearly, this is not how we want to be perceived nor is it going to help us reach others. This is an exciting time for Asbury. For those of us who don’t really like change, 2013 might bring some discomfort. Fortunately, Asbury is filled with people who understand that the New Testament speaks much less about our personal comfort than about reaching and serving others. Your prayers, input and support are desired as we continue to work through setting the stage for Asbury’s future. Dwight Yoder Executive Director

NOVEMBER 2012

Contents A Word From Tom Harrison Asbury’s Day of Service The Wehrenberg Family 100 Years Young The Starkweather Family The Proctor Family The Graves Family Asbury’s Adopt a Christmas Child Giving Thanks at All Times Fall Retreat 2012 for 7-8-9 Grades Grandpa John Communities Worship Together Opportunities Special Announcements

1 2 6 8 10 12 14 17 18 20 20 21 22 23 31

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: Artworks Tulsa Photography (artworkstulsaphotography.com), Chris Lo (matchadesign.com), David Mains (dmains@ cox.net), Jesse Reich (jessereich.com), Mark Moore (mark moore.photo.net), Sarah Adams (yellowchairphotography.com) Guest Contributors: Anna Calhoun, Deborah Calhoun, Isaiah Edison, Tiffany Edison, Barbara Graves, Sue Greenwood, Stephanie Hurd, Diane King, Kendall Parris, Lindsay Saul, Fred Starkweather, Laurel Starkweather, Nancy Starkweather, Ashley Welch, Cheryl Welch, Haley Welch, John Westervelt

A Word From Tom Harrison In this issue of Tidings, four families are represented. I’ve known these families in different ways through the years. On November 30, Louise Starkweather turns 100. What a terrific family she has! Wow! On Wednesday afternoons, Todd Craig and I are with her great-granddaughter, Megan (17), in our Bible study. I’ve known Pat Calhoun’s paternal grandparents, Wayne and Ara Mae (who will celebrate 76 years of marriage in November) since my Rose Hill Methodist Church days. Pat’s mom, Sue Greenwood, used to babysit my sister and me. Now I’m her senior pastor. Mary Proctor’s family has been rock solid here, too. Her daughter Marilyn and her son Bruce (I just received a wonderful note from their son, Jason, who was in our seniors’ Bible study last year who’s now a freshman in college in Abilene, Texas) are leading families in our church. The Wehrenberg family is also prominent here. I feel a special connection with them because their grandson-in-law, Danny Dawson, is a student at Asbury Theological Seminary which holds a special place in my heart. These are major families within our congregation. We see this intergenerational network as part of our identity at Asbury. A few weeks ago in my sermon, I had a picture of four faithful members of Asbury: my mom, my wife, my niece (my sister’s daughter) and my grand-niece. My rhetorical question in my sermon was: “Which of these four aren’t important to us?” We are a multi-generational church. But our focus is on uniting the generations so that we are an intergenerational church. We want older people with younger folks because they both offer so

much. I wish every young family at Asbury had a “grandparent family” to share life with. That’s so helpful in so many ways! We’d like to set apart as many opportunities for people of all ages to be together in worship, study, service, witness and fellowship. We’ll all be better because of it. We’ll also be fulfilling the commands of Scripture. Again and again the words from the Bible echo the truth: “Teach your children … and your childrens’ children.” I’m reading a book by last year’s manager of the St. Louis Cardinals, Tony LaRussa. He tells the story of the highly improbable path to be the 2011 World’s Series champions. He explains how the manager and coaches try to bond individual players into a team. The sum of the total is far greater than the individual parts. When players develop camaraderie and unite as one, championships are won. In many ways, the goal of life is to live to a ripe old age and to have accumulated two things by then: (1) wisdom (2) meaningful relationships. My prayer for Asbury is that we increasingly grow into an intergenerational body of believers, who are developing (mentoring) disciples of Jesus, who intentionally reach out to others in faith. Dr. Tom Harrison Senior Pastor

City-wide Thanksgiving Service Monday, November 19, 2012 @ 7:00 pm 1st Presbyterian Church – 709 South Boston Avenue Please join us in worship with other churches in our community.

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Asbury’s Day of Service October 7, 2012

"Well done good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!" –Matthew 25:21 Many thanks to the volunteers in Asbury’s Day of Service 2012. With that many hands and feet in the Tulsa community, we may never fully know the eternal impact you have had. Thank you for the gift of your time and talent.

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Number of volunteers:

2109

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Number of worksites:

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8,436 hours donated by volunteers

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Intergenerational Church A multigenerational church is one with several generations present but primarily segregated by age. Think “kid’s table” and “adult’s table” at Thanksgiving dinner. An intergenerational church is one with several generations present but integrated by worshiping; serving and growing alongside one another (Imagine everyone at the same table). Asbury is more unique than any other church because we have four different

generations who call Asbury “home.” We recognize and value the potential of every age group and every life stage to influence one another and to influence others outside the church. The following four-generation families are part of Asbury’s intergenerational calling. Read through their stories to capture the essence of sitting together at the Thanksgiving table.

THE GENERATIONS Dave & Janet Wehrenberg 99 Karen & Mike Wackenhuth 99 Katie & Daniel Dawson 99 Henry Jonas Dawson (born 6-15-2012)

by Kay Mains

l to r standing: Mike, Karen, Daniel (holding Henry); seated: Katie, Dave, Janet

Dave and Janet Wehrenberg grew up in Indiana as Lutherans. They moved to Tulsa in 1959 and friends invited them to visit Asbury. They felt at home and joined. They’ve been here now for almost 40 years now and are faithful members of the Wordfinders community. You’ll find them here at Asbury almost every Sunday. Sometimes they come to the early (8:00 am service) and sometimes the 9:15 or 11:00 service, depending on their schedule. They love the variety of music in the worship services, enjoy the special programs and believe that every service is unique in its own way

and find that a real plus. They also enjoy activities with their community. For many years, Janet volunteered at the Methodist Manor. Dave regularly attends the men’s prayer breakfast and encourages men of all ages to check it out. Even with all their other activities, Dave and Janet spent several years as greeters in the children’s area. At one time they were also

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part of the “friendly visitor” group, taking a coffee mug to first time visitors, thanking them for coming to Asbury and thoroughly enjoyed that ministry. Dave and Janet were drawn to Asbury by the sermons, first by Pastor Bill Mason and later by Pastor Tom Harrison, because they were Scripture based. Dave commented that “Tom can take two or three verses and make them so understandable. He also ties it in with our everyday living, and that has helped us grow in our faith and how we look at life. Asbury is an inspiring church, from the nursery to the columbarium. It has met our spiritual needs and wants.” Janet mirrors the same, “Our walk with the Lord is much closer now and we have become much more astute when reading the Bible.” Their daughter Karen and husband Mike joined after the birth of their first child, a daughter Katie, and have been members ever since. Having their parents at Asbury obviously influenced that decision, but the connection was firm, and they’ve been members now for 29 years. Their second daughter, Christy, lives in Denver. Youth missions played a large part in Christy’s life while attending Asbury, and missions continues to impact her life today. She will be coming back to be married at Asbury in December. Mike and Karen faithfully attend services. They have benefited from the RoadMap classes and feel grateful that Asbury offers such a variety of opportunities and services to their members as well as the Tulsa community. When their daughters were young, Karen helped in the children’s area, serving one year with one daughter’s class and the next year with the other, for a number of years. Karen feels like the spiritual growth of both daughters was greatly enhanced by the children’s ministry at Asbury and later by the youth programs. “We feel blessed to be a part of the Asbury family and have always felt that, even though Asbury is a large church, they are able to make you feel included and loved. Tom is doing such a great job encouraging the congregation to read the Bible and make it a roadmap for our lives. Our relationships with the Lord are strengthened daily.” It’s obvious that Mike and Karen are big supporters of Asbury. Karen and her mother (Janet) spent some time going to Walt Whitman to read with the kids there. What an experience to share stories with them. Such a simple gesture but affecting that generation of children.

One sweet memory comes to Karen’s mind when she thinks of Asbury. She and her dad (Dave) walked from the old church on Sheridan to the new church building in 2004. At the time Dave was in his late 70s. That is a memory she treasures. When Mike and Karen’s daughter Katie was in high school, she wanted to volunteer at Asbury, having an impact in her own unique way. She chose to volunteer in a 2 year old class, and her mother (Karen) agreed to volunteer as well. When Katie went off to college, Karen realized she had grown to love the kids, so she continued with that same group until they had completed the third grade. Katie and Danny Dawson were married by Dub Ambrose almost three years ago. They spent a year in Wilmore so Danny could attend Asbury seminary, returning to Tulsa less than a year ago. Danny will complete his courses by correspondence. He attributes the desire to attend seminary to his experience here at Asbury. “One of the main reasons I chose to attend Asbury Seminary was because of the examples from Pastor Tom and Todd Craig along with other UMC pastors in Tulsa. I attended a Baptist church in high school, various churches in college, did missions in China through a reformed church, and was a youth pastor at a Baptist church in town, but the ministry of Asbury influenced me to join the UMC. Tom's sermons are very grounded in Methodist and Wesleyan theology and that was very impressive to me, especially considering the diversity to be found in such a large church. Asbury's humble approach to outreach has provided a great example of churches working together in spite of size or denominational differences that I hope to use after I finish seminary.” Danny and Katie had their first baby in June, an adorable son named Henry, who is a joy to parents, grandparents, and great grandparents alike. Katie says, “We enjoy attending Asbury because it gives us an opportunity to go to church as a family. We may go to different services, but when we get together for lunches or family events, we all can discuss the current sermon series.” On Christmas Eve, the family gathers for dinner, then, as a family, come to one of the Christmas Eve services at Asbury to welcome Christmas together. God. Family. Traditions. All are ties that bind this family together. Four generations, worshipping together here at Asbury.

This is a recipe that we all enjoy at family gatherings.

Picnic Potatoes

2 lbs. frozen hash brown potatoes 1 can cream of celery soup 2 cups sour cream

8 ozs. sharp cheese shredded 1 cup onion, chopped 1 cup corn flakes crushed

Thaw hash browns. Mix first 5 ingredients and place in 9 x 13 pyrex dish. Sprinkle corn flakes on top and bake in 375 degree oven for 1 hour.

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100

Years Young

and Still Going by Angie Brashears

"Whatever you do, do it with all your might. Work at it, early and late, in season and out of season, not leaving a stone unturned, and never deferring for a single hour that which can be done just as well as now." –P. T. Barnum Louise Starkweather is the greatest example of a hard-working woman. She loves life, likes to work and doesn’t like to lay around too often. She will turn 100 years old on November 30 and she didn’t even retire until she was 89 years old. Louise worked at a garment factory for 69 years and served in management positions but she said, “I never felt like I was better than the janitor. There were 200 women who worked in the factory, and we became like a family. We still get together every year to meet and catch up

with each other. Last year, we had about 65 people show up for the reunion. ” Louise has seen a lot in the last 100 years. She grew up with no TV, no radio, no cars, no electricity, they had to use oil lamps, washed their clothes on a scrub board, drew water from a well daily and used a horse and buggy to get around town. She has very fond memories of those times, “Things were different back then, not like

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today, everyone knew everyone. You knew your neighbors, and all of the kids just had a good time playing. We would play hopscotch, go sheep go, hide-n-seek and jump the rope. You never had to worry about anyone bothering you. There would be seven to eight of us kids out playing in the dirt road till dark.” “My mother, Ora, was the biggest influence on me and taught me many life lessons. She was always there for me, willing to listen. Taught me to always do the right thing and took me to church every Sunday since I was a baby. The only time I was allowed to miss was when I was sick. We were a very close family, we cared for each other. Every Sunday after church we would get together for a family dinner and have fried chicken. My mom used to fry the chicken; she taught me, and now I have taught my grandchildren, both boys and the girls, how to fry old-fashioned crispy chicken.” Family is the most important thing in Louise’s life. She goes too as many activities as she can to see her great-grandchildren sing in music performances, play football, soccer or anything they are involved in. She is very proud of her family. She lives with her son and daughter-in-law, Fred and Nancy Starkweather. She does all of the washing and cooking in the house because she doesn’t want to be lazy. Her daughter-in-law has to ask if she can wash. Louise loves Asbury and loves the people. She started coming to Asbury about four years ago when she moved from Illinois to Tulsa. She began teaching Sunday school at age 16. She served in other areas of the church for almost 30 years, 10 were spent as superintendent of the youth department. “Everyone at Asbury is

so friendly, we are not just a number here, even though it is big, but a person. I love the music and I am thankful for the way Asbury takes care of the young people. They are just as important as us old people. I really love my Sunday school class (Wordfinders). I attend small group with Fred and Nancy and really love all of them too. The staff is genuine and willing to help anyone. Pastor Tom preaches a strong Gospel and applies it to every person.” Louise’s words of wisdom to every generation is she wants everyone to remember to keep going, love people and be nice to everyone. Do not think you are better than anyone else and above all else, do not be lazy!

Louise and her future husband, Bud, in 1931.

Louise’s Crispy Fried Chicken

The key to success is a large, heavy frying pan with lid. This may seem to be a simple recipe but patient effort at the range top will be rewarding. Ingredients and Equipment: Large, heavy frying pan with lid 1 frying chicken – cut up Crisco Vegetable Oil

Flour Salt

Your Time: Total cooking time is about one hour and must be attended at all times (sorry, it just takes this kind of care). 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Wash and drain chicken pieces after cutting (do not dry pieces). Pour about ½ inch Crisco Vegetable Oil in frying pan and pre-heat oil to “hot.” Place a hand full of flour in a large dinner plate. Thoroughly salt each individual piece of wet chicken and roll in flour just before placing it in the hot oil. (The first piece acts as a test for the oil temperature. When the piece is placed in the oil it will begin to fry rapidly without excessive splattering.) Continue to place each salted and floured chicken pieces into pan until pan is full. Do NOT place pieces on top of each other. Fry until golden brown, turning pieces frequently with a fork as needed. The puncturing of fork is very important to the flavor. Do NOT leave pan unattended. After pieces are brown, turn down the heat to slow the cooking to barely frying. Cover with lid and let steam for 15 minutes, turning pieces occasionally. Remove lid, turn heat to high and cook about another 15 minutes to “crisp up” the chicken pieces. Remove from pan and serve.

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THE GENERATIONS Louise Starkweather 99 Fred & Nancy Starkweather 99 Jeff & Laurel Starkweather 99 Megan 99 Melissa 99 Madison 99 Max

l to r: Jeff, Laurel, Melissa, Megan, Max, Fred, Nancy, Louise, Madison standing behind Nancy

Fred Starkweather I was raised in a small town of 3,000 in the southern part of Illinois, never remembering not being taken to church by my mom. Dad wasn’t a Christian then, but he never objected to Mom taking my brother and me. Dad became a Christian late in life while fishing with a buddy. Nancy and I grew up knowing each other and were married a year after finishing high school. Our son Jeff was born a year later. At age 25, we believed God called us into part-time ministry and our family moved to Texas to work with two other ministries doing underground evangelism in the Iron Curtain countries of East Germany, Czechoslovakia and Russia a number of years. By the mid 1980s, we had settled back in southern Illinois, and I served as church administrator. After a few years, I became the pastor by inheriting a church split. I pastored about seven years until I felt my time in that position was finished. During that time, Jeff attended ORU, and we became familiar with Tulsa. A few years later, our youngest son attended ORU, so our frequenting Tulsa was ongoing. Our middle son still lives in Illinois. Jeff and his family ended up settling in the Tulsa area and eventually began going to Asbury. Anytime we would visit we

would attend with them. Coming from a pastoral background, I would, of course, analyze the church when I was there. I was constantly amazed with what I saw. Many of the things I had aspired to accomplish when I was pastoring, I saw successfully being done. Nancy and I had said for years if we ever moved to a metropolitan area it would be Tulsa. In 2008, Jeff called to ask us to move here to help him and his partner by working for Epic Custom Homes. Mom had lived with us since my dad’s death around 1993. I was concerned about what she would think. She was about 95 or so then but didn’t object at all. Nancy and I were raised to understand the importance of a commitment to a local church. Anytime we moved, we would join a church the first week of arrival and jump in with both feet to serve. I was actually looking forward with great anticipation to becoming a part of Asbury. We found Faithbuilders community and were soon made a part of a small group. There we met new friends and soon, Ric Shust got me to attend a New Covenant Orchestra rehearsal. That was really freaky! I was in the percussion section, but I hadn’t read music in more than 40 years. I was amazed with Hart’s and everyone else’s patience. I got moved over to timpani about a year ago, and I know there’s still a whole lot of room for improvement.

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Nancy and I have spent the last 25 years or so studying and teaching the importance of knowing one’s spiritual gift and knowing how to fit into the Body of Christ to serve. I’ve learned a lot more about that being a part of the orchestra. I have seen each person play a completely different kind of instrument and then, even different parts. Sometimes the part you see on the music doesn’t seem to make much sense by itself, until you see it fit together with all the other parts. Then the amazing miracle of unity happens and something beautiful is created. I appreciate our Asbury leadership understanding how the “Body” is made to fit together, and it is constantly exciting for me to observe the church reaching out to local, national and international missions, community outreach, the emphasis on the Word of God and salvation, the importance of community group relationships and the care of the saints. Thanks Asbury for being what you are and for letting people like me be a part.

Nancy Starkweather I grew up in a Christian family. My grandfather was a Baptist preacher and associational missionary. My husband Fred, myself and our three boys were involved in missions in the 1970s throughout Europe and behind the Iron Curtain. The emphasis on missions here at Asbury is very impressive. Of course, I moved to Tulsa with my husband and find it a really great joy to be able to see and be involved in attending different events of our grandchildren. It’s exciting to see their talents blossom as they grow and to see their parents point them in the right direction of being involved in church activities. Fred and I really love our Sunday school class. The teaching is great and the fellowship is wonderful. We are involved in our small group and have helped serve the homeless in the Good Samaritan ministry. I am very pleased how our class has helped in Operation Hope. I have had a ministry of prayer a number of years and have been so blessed to see the power of prayer in our class. Every week, we have prayer requests and answers to our prayers get posted on the board. Our community truly cares about each other and those we pray for. I also enjoy helping lead the singing occasionally in our Sunday morning class with some other ladies. I truly love the music, the choir and the orchestra. I love all the services we offer at Asbury. What a variety of worship! I love it all! Pastor Tom is such a great preacher/teacher. His heart for the Lord and for the lost and hurting is so touching. He truly loves and cares for us, the congregation. Asbury is our family’s church home.

Jeff and Laurel Starkweather, Megan, Melissa, Madison, Max

challenging junior high and high school program. We wanted our kids to not dread going to church and to provide them numerous opportunities to serve God and others and to socialize with likeminded peers. We feel the blessing of having our family integrated with our community of faith. What could be better than Jesus and his family being fully a part of our four generations at Asbury? We have been immensely grateful for the life-changing missions trips that our two oldest have been able to participate in. The youth staff is absolutely top-notch, and we are so thankful that they have been able to travel internationally. Best of all, they have had the chance to get out of this culture of consumerism and really see how the rest of the world functions with far less. They have had so many wonderful opportunities to reach people with the good news of Jesus. My favorite Asbury memory is the Christmas Eve services; the two older would say their trips to Kentucky, Jamaica and Guatemala. This year Madison will venture to Houston in the spring for her trip for spring break missions. All of us have been blessed to volunteer in many different areas through the years. Melissa has helped lead worship in 5/6 and junior high. Madison has recently entered the youth program and is going through the confirmation program (our third to go through). Max and Madison have been active participants in Upward Basketball for many years. Jeff plays bass guitar in the Venue 11:00 am service, and Laurel sings backup vocals in the Venue 11:00 am service. Our three daughters have been involved in small groups that meet every week/every other week... the two oldest have been involved for six years! Their leaders have been an incredible blessing to our family and have a special crown waiting for them in heaven. The weekly small groups our teens have experienced have given them the opportunity to be mentored and form lasting friendships with other teens. Max has been blessed with consistent, reliable teaching and principles applicable to a grade school child. None of the kids ever resist going to church, because there's something for everyone; it's all grade-appropriate. Raising teens is enough of a challenging task with the negative pressures of our culture.... we cannot imagine how incredibly lonely and difficult it would be without a community of faith circling around us, pointing us in the direction of Jesus and the power of his amazing love. Our job has been made easier by plugging in to this community of believers, who are working toward the same goal of building faith-filled lives, honoring God, and joyfully serving others as the hands of Jesus. We have been blessed!

Our family of six came (from another church) about six years ago when we felt an acute need to provide a place that had a vibrant and

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by Kay Mains

THE GENERATIONS Mary Proctor 99 Marilyn & Michael Bartlett 99 Matt & Robin Bartlett 99 Azlee 99 Alexis 99 Bruce & Jennifer Proctor 99 Brett 99 Ryan 99 Jason l to r: Mary, Marilyn, Robin, Alexis, Matt, Michael, Azlee, Jennifer, Bruce

Living close to a church can have its advantages. When Mary Proctor and her daughter Marilyn were running late on Sunday morning and would be late for the church they normally attended, they would visit Asbury which was located close to them. And Asbury eventually became home to four generations of their family. Mary Proctor and her husband Norbert grew up only a few blocks from each other in Tulsa but didn’t meet until a blind date after the war. Norbert worked for the FBI then joined the Navy, and Mary joined the WAVES (U.S. Navy Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Services) where she served for three years. They celebrated their 50th anniversary in 1997. Norbert had begun exhibiting alzheimer’s symptoms at that time, so Mary was grateful they had the opportunity to celebrate together. During their early marriage, Mary and Norbert had attended the First Presbyterian Church where all three of their children were christened. After Norbert’s job transferred them to Denver for three years, they were excited to be returning to Tulsa. Marilyn, their oldest daughter, met her future husband Mike in high school, and his family attended Southminster Presbyterian, so Marilyn and her parents went there most of the time but visited Asbury occasionally since it was close by. Marilyn and her husband Mike were the first to officially join Asbury. When the pastor of Southminster was retiring, both thought it was a good time to make a change. They loved the fact that both Bill Mason and Tom Harrison preached directly from the Word. “Both of them boldly speak the truth and that has been a special blessing to us,” continued Marilyn. It wasn’t long before Bruce,

Marilyn’s brother, and his wife Jennifer joined them at Asbury. Mary and Norbert soon followed, also enjoying the biblical teaching. Mary laughs and says, “Norbert was always the Bible scholar, not me!” After Norbert began exhibiting more advanced signs of alzheimer’s, Mary received a huge blessing from Asbury. Bill Metsker would come and stay with Norbert, allowing Mary some time away from home. After Norbert passed away in 1999, Mary continued at Asbury until she made the decision to move to Monterreau. She’ll tell you, with great enthusiasm, they have about 40 people from Asbury who live there. And Monterreau regularly has services for their residents which Mary attends since it’s difficult for her to get out now. If you ask Marilyn and Mike what drew them to Asbury, the first thing they mention is the teaching of both Bill Mason and Tom Harrison. But they are quick to also tell you about the amazing nursery and Sunday school classes that developed their children. Marilyn and Mike have been a part of a community since they first joined, now FaithBuilders. “We have loved being in a community. The fellowship and support from other Christians is invaluable,” commented Marilyn. “We also appreciate the opportunities for Bible study outside of our community. Asbury is gifted with wonderful teachers in and out of community who are well grounded in Scripture.”

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Mike and Marilyn have had opportunities to serve and be served. They have served as lay leaders, trained in both Kingdom People with Jim Lenderman and Disciple with Vaughn Story, and been mentors to engaged couples in the Couple-2-Couple program. Marilyn has also directed VBS, been involved in Precept classes for 13 years, and in the choir for 10 years. Mike has been chairman of the Asbury Foundation and the local mission board, and members of the board of trustees, finance committee and administrative council. “It is a privilege to have had children grow up in a Godcentered church and then see our grandchildren experiencing God's love expressed through their teachers and leaders,” states Mike. Bruce (Norbert and Mary’s son) and Jennifer were the next to join Asbury. After graduating from college and leaving his first job in Dallas, Bruce returned to Asbury. He had not yet been introduced to Jennifer. However, Jennifer had just taken her first job in Tulsa, moving here from Mississippi. Being new to Tulsa, a neighbor in a nearby apartment, an older retired woman, invited her to visit Asbury. After learning she could sing, her new friend insisted she attend choir practice! After attending Asbury the first time, she never looked back. Bruce and Jennifer, both still single, were involved in the Christians in Actions community. They had a lot of good clean fun, but most importantly, were able to grow in their faith. They began to date, and were eventually married in Jennifer’s hometown in Mississippi. Bruce’s job took them to California for three years. When they came back, they returned to Asbury with their children. All three of their boys (one just leaving for Abilene Christian, one a senior at OU, and the other having graduated and living in California), were active at Asbury and very involved with the youth ministry. All three went on youth mission trips and enjoyed other activities here at Asbury where they were challenged and developed in their faith. Bruce was involved in leading the small groups for the boys from seventh grade on. Jennifer has worked with the finance committee and the UMW in the past. Jennifer also grew from the teaching of Esther Gene Morrison 23 years ago. “Our community has become our family. As we delve into our empty nest time, we’ll find even more ways to get involved at Asbury,” said Jennifer.

Marilyn and Michael’s son Matthew and his wife Robin also are members of Asbury. Matt said, “I have never been to another church. Okay, maybe I have visited one or two, but never seriously considered leaving Asbury.” He has been told that when he was just in preschool and Asbury was still meeting on Sheridan, he was moving too fast and put his small fist through one of the one of the windows in his classrooms. Whether this is a fact or just an urban legend, he doesn’t know, but he suspects it’s probably true! Matt’s first mission trip was with his parent’s community to Mexico where they worked on a casita (small house). Since that time, Matt has gone on the Asbury men’s mission to Rio Bravo to do similar ministry at least four or five times. His favorite thing about the men at Asbury? “The lack of competitiveness; the acceptance they show one another.” Matt and Robin were married at Asbury in 2003. After becoming members of The Ark community, they felt they had found their spiritual family. Friendships were built; parenting skills were learned. Through relationships and encouragement there, they began taking care of foster children. Those children have come and gone through the years (and continue to come and go!) They are blessed by how well the children are received and accepted in the children’s ministry here at Asbury. Robin has been involved in the women’s council, and both she and Matt have benefited from healing received through Celebrate Recovery. Their daughters, Azlee, 11 years old, and Alexis, 2 years old, both have experienced that same acceptance and unconditional love here at Asbury. Azlee regularly goes to Murdock Villa with other 6th graders. She loves participating in the children’s choirs, Summersong, and the Christmas musical. Although this was her last year of attending VBS, she is looking forward to being a teen volunteer next year. God has been faithful to the four generations of the Proctor and Bartlett families. Psalm 100:5 tell us: For the Lord is good; His loving kindness is everlasting and His faithfulness to all generations. They have all experienced God’s loving kindness exhibited toward them through Asbury.

We generally share this chowder when we gather on Christmas Eve.

Easiest Clam Chowder

2 cans cream of mushroom soup 2 cans cream of potato soup 1 onion, finely chopped

2 small cans minced clams 1 pint milk 1 pint half & half

1 stick of butter or margarine

Cook onion in butter. Add soups and heat just to boiling, stirring frequently. Add milk and clams and heat through. Stir to keep from scalding - don't boil! This serves 4-6. (I quadruple the recipe for the 20+ that we have for Christmas Eve!)

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Gene and Barbara

Sue Greenwood

Looking back over the years, we see that God has showered our family with grace by guiding us to Asbury. During our first visit, it was easy to see that Bill Mason was the very essence of a Godly man. We knew we had found a church home and joined as a family. Our daughters flourished in the youth programs and became active in church life.

I grew up at Rose Hill Methodist when Tom Harrison’s family was there. As a teenager, not only did I work in the nursery, but I also did some babysitting for the Harrisons. My claim to fame? I changed Tom Harrison’s diapers!

My husband, Gene, and I joined the Seekers community and remain active members. Gene has served in various positions, including president of Seekers several times. He has also been chairman of the Asbury Foundation, a member of the Asbury Finance Committee and an usher. I have been the early service pianist since l987, pianist for the Sonshiners for many years and also for various other functions. Gene and I have also been active in a small group Bible study for 26 years. I have been in Precept, Beth Moore and Disciple Bible studies. Our daughters grew up hearing, learning and loving the old hymns that express such deep theology. Between me, our daughter Deborah, and our granddaughters Haley and Ashley, we claim several Asbury firsts. We played the first mother-daughter duet and the first grandmother-granddaughter duet. I played duets with both granddaughters in the same service. Our oldest granddaughter, Tiffany, was another first when she accompanied me on the drums. Even our grandson, Joshua, is involved in church music. As Hart said, “Young people are the church musicians of the future.” What a joy they all are. We are very blessed to have our family here in Tulsa, and all of them involved in our beloved church - Asbury.

While Asbury was still meeting in the building on Sheridan, I was helping with the MYF dinner and noticed there was no leadership for the kids. I went to Bill and offered to help. Never did I anticipate being made director of youth ministries. I recruited Doug Walker to help; Dick Read also volunteered to help me. During this time, Pat met Deborah, the lovely young lady he eventually married, at MYF. After attending college, Pat and Deborah returned to Tulsa and were helping with the youth at Asbury, as I had moved to Texas with Dick, living there for about 12 years. When we returned to Tulsa in 1993, we came back to Asbury. Why? It’s home.

Deborah and Patrick Calhoun Our family grew up in church. My parents have a strong faith in Jesus, and I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior when I was nine years old. I’ve been at Asbury since sixth grade (except for college). Pat began attending with his parents and was involved with the youth choir. The first time I ever saw Pat was at an MYF water ski weekend. I thought he was so handsome, but found out he was dating someone else, so I ignored him. When the guys raided the girls’ cabin, all

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l to r: Patrick, Deborah, Anna, Harmony, Josh, Cheryl, Chuck, Haley, Tiffany, Isaiah, Sue, Dick, Gene, Barbara, and Ashley in the car. The cars are a 2012 Camaro owned by Josh and Anna and a 2002 Corvette convertible owned by Barbara and Gene

in good fun, Pat poured a cup of water in my ear. Rather than give him a startled look, I just rolled over and continued to ignore him. Two years later when I began dating Pat, I found him to be a man of strong conviction and devotion to God. That was real important to me. We were married in 1982 at Asbury. Pat and I are involved with the Storm Shelter community. Pat is on the board of trustees. I’m a communion steward during 8:00 am service, and Pat was worship leader for that service for 10 years. We both teach in Storm Shelter, serve on the Marriage Council, have led “Art of Marriage” twice, and will be hosting “Art of Marriage” as a Roadmap class next spring. I took Disciple last year with my daughter Tiffany and her husband, Isaiah. Asbury (the people not the building) has been such a significant part of our life. We’ve spent our teen years there, married, raised our kids, and now have a grandchild there. Through the daily Scripture readings, prayer time, sermons and fellowship, Asbury has helped us to grow and get through some tough times. We made it a priority to pass our faith to our children when they were young. All of our next generation are very involved at Asbury, as they have seen the examples of their parents and grandparents. We’ve included the kids in whatever we were doing if possible. That leaves our fourth generation – Harmony – with quite a legacy, hope, and lots of family to watch over her.

Cheryl and Chuck Welch My funniest memory of being at church is also my favorite. My family would always sit in the front seat of the balcony. One day,

THE GENERATIONS Gene and Barbara Graves 99 Deborah and Patrick Calhoun 99 Joshua and Rhianna Calhoun 99 Harmony Grace Calhoun (infant) 99 Tiffany and Isaiah Edison 99 Cheryl and Chuck Welch 99 Haley Welch 99 Ashley Welch Dick and Sue Greenwood (Patrick’s mother and stepfather)

I had my legs crossed and had fallen asleep. Mom elbowed me in the side and I jumped, kicking the balcony. It was loud and echoed through the church, which gave us the giggles. After college, Pat and Deborah encouraged me to help with the youth group. During this time I met Chuck. He had come to Asbury with some friends from ORU who were trying out different churches. His dad was in Rotary Club with Pastor Bill Mason, so Chuck knew who he was. When Chuck first saw me, he said to his friend, “I’m going to marry that girl,” and he hadn’t even spoken to me yet! He’s great with kids! Chuck and I were married at the old Asbury building in 1991. We are members of the Storm Shelter community. We’ve volunteered for 2nd Saturday, Easterville, Walt Whitman, Habitat for Humanity, SuperCare Sunday and the Day of Service – at New Hope and the Global Gardens at Rosa Parks. We were also on the leadership team for the Christmas Shop, which is the event that touched my heart the most. It’s been 17 years since we were working with the high school youth. By today’s standard, the group was pretty small. It has been amazing to see how God has touched the heart of our oldest daughter, Haley, and how much she enjoys the environment of the church as well as serving other people. We are seeing that same spark in Ashley as well. I am grateful to my mom and dad for bringing us to Asbury and for being so involved in the church. I’m also grateful to Deborah and Pat for their witness and for raising Joshua and Tiffany in the church. They’ve been a huge influence on our own daughters.

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Joshua and Anna Calhoun We both have been a part of Asbury's family since we were children. We met in Asbury's youth band and became friends. As we grew in our faith and matured, we began dating and were married by Pastor Tom Harrison. Two years later we welcomed our first child Harmony Grace into the world and will be raising her in the church as we were. Joshua was a part of the youth worship band for eight years and led the 5th and 6th grade band for two. He still assists the band but is primarily serving as Sunday IT desktop support. I am a nursery staff team member on Sundays and certain days during the week. We have been on missions trips with the youth to Houston, Kentucky, Mexico and Guatemala. Our families created amazing memories for us. I remember singing in the choir with my mother during Christmas services. Seeing the families come together, candles lighting their faces and bells ringing all around brings back such wonderful memories. Our desire is to raise our daughter in the church as well.

Tiffany and Isaiah Edison I (Tiffany) have been heavily involved at Asbury my whole life. As a kid, I was involved in the childrens’ choirs and hand bell choirs, Christmas plays and other activities. As I grew up, I started playing music (drums) and immediately got plugged into various bands. I played for Rock 5.6, which lead to the junior high youth band, then the high school youth band, then various adult worship services. As a student, I loved attending the spring break mission trips. During college, I was blessed to go along with Mark Fowler on his Kentucky spring break trip as a leader. During one trip, Mark asked if I had ever thought about applying for an internship with Asbury. It was at that moment God started stirring something within my heart – something that put me out of my comfort zone. For two summers, I was beyond blessed to serve as a youth intern. Isaiah and I are involved in the Rooted community. Together with my parents we serve on the Marriage Ministry Board and have participated in/hosted several marriage ministry events the past couple years. There are no shortages of service opportunities at Asbury—local, national and international. My favorite memory about Asbury is, in the summer of 2007 as a leader at the junior high Disciple Camp, I thought it'd be fun to roll down a seemingly harmless hill. I ended up in the emergency room getting 11 stitches! Because it was my 18th birthday, I got to sign

my own hospital papers. Afterward, Mark took me to get a Sonic slushy before heading back to camp. I (Isaiah) grew up in non-denominational churches, even following my mother around as she sang at revivals in some of the government subsidized housing units in Tulsa. My parents were divorced when I was only 13. I began attending Asbury with my best friend Josh Calhoun, and his entire family helped me through some rough times. Pat and Deborah have been mentors to me. Because of that experience, I am passionate about helping to strengthen marriages. I have seen firsthand what a divorce can do to families, especially the kids. We put a lot of time and effort into our own marriage and help plan family life events at Asbury. One of the reasons I began going to Asbury with the Calhouns was because I knew I would get pizza afterwards. (God uses many things to get us where He wants us!) My acceptance within the Asbury community and Tiffany’s family played a huge role in my life. I recently began to attend the men’s prayer breakfast on Wednesday morning. Yes, I’m the youngest person there, but I have found that I am learning a lot from the older men. I have begun to truly understand the core purpose of us being here—the belief in Jesus Christ and going to heaven because of what He has done for us. There is a freedom to worship and not a "religious" spirit. That’s why we are at Asbury.

Haley Welch I have been involved at Asbury my whole life and have done spring break missions to Houston, Kentucky and Jamaica. I will be going back to Jamaica again next summer. I’m also involved in small groups, VBS, Day of Service, and anything else that comes up. I play with the orchestra at Asbury. My favorite memory is playing a piano duet with Lauren Golliver. We played “Holy, Holy, Holy.” I have also played duets with my grandmother. People at Asbury are welcoming and so loving.

Ashley Welch I am in the fifth grade and love VBS and all the activities such as All Night Blast and the scavenger hunts. I enjoy going to class on Sunday mornings, and seeing all my friends. I played a piano duet with my grandmother (Barbara) at the 8:00 am service. That was a highlight for me as well.

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Asbury’s Adopt a Christmas Child

selection. You can choose by age of the child, the ministry that referred them, even by the name. Some have a specific child in mind as they have developed a relationship with a child they tutor through Youth at Heart or Walt Whitman. Some have chosen to buy for the same child several years in a row.

by Kay Mains

o you remember the excitement of Christmas as a child, wondering what gifts you would receive, or just hoping you would have some gifts? Within our community, there are many families who barely make it from pay check to pay check, with little left over to have gifts for the holidays. A very special program here at Asbury is designed to help meet this need. For the past several years, Jamie Schaffitzel, her family, and the Legacy community have helped to direct Asbury’s Adopt a Christmas Child program. When Jamie took over the program, there were about 200 children needing gifts. Now the list has grown to over 500 children whose families have financial need. Jamie describes this as being a program that blesses everyone who does it, but particularly those giving the presents. Legacy helps Jamie write out the tags, mans the tables to get the kids adopted, and sorts all the gifts, ensuring that all the children receive at least one gift. What a huge undertaking. There are children recommended by Youth at Heart and Walt Whitman, from the Circle of Care and Operation Hope. The agency does the screening; Asbury just tells them, “Send us what you have.” Legacy community helps to fill out the name tags listing the child’s name, age, clothing sizes, and one gift that they would like to have. To keep equality among siblings, people are asked to spend about $40-50, which would provide one article of clothing plus a toy. The name tags of available children to be placed on tables throughout the church for everyone to see and make their

This is a great outreach for an entire family. Some families choose a child of the same age as in their family. Some choose the same child they are tutoring from the nearby apartments. When your own children are involved in buying for another child, they begin to develop a servant’s heart. Proverbs 22:6 tells us: “Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it.” This year, Adopt a Christmas Child will be held a little earlier than in the past as they’ll use the resources of 2nd Saturday to actually deliver the gifts. Plan to make your selection on November 18. Cards with names will be available at the south entrance by preschool, upstairs by elementary, the north entrance, CLC gallery, and Venue north lobby. You’ll need to have your gifts back by December 2 so that they can be delivered on December 8. If you’ve never done this, it’s the perfect year to begin a new tradition with your family. Adopt a Christmas child. Then come help deliver them. Be the hands and feet of Christ. Help put a smile on a child’s face.

Dates to remember: November 18 - Select Child December 2 - Deadline for gifts to be returned December 8 - Help deliver gifts at 2nd Saturday

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Giving Thanks at All Times by Pastor Guy Ames

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. –1 Thessalonians 5:18, New Living Translation (NLT) I love Thanksgiving! During my boyhood and young adult years our family would gather with friends for a day in the country. Without exception, sometime during that day we would stop all the activities, television, eating and sit together for a time to reflect on those things for which we could give thanks. Everyone, regardless of age, added to the conversation, and after all these years the memories that have lasted have been of those warm-hearted circles of gratitude. So, what does Thanksgiving Day hold for you? One wag commented, "It's the same thing every year. First you have roast turkey…the next day you have warmed up turkey, followed by cold turkey, followed by turkey croquettes, followed by turkey omelet, followed by turkey hash, followed by turkey soup, followed by Christmas." To be sure, most folks think of Thanksgiving Day as a day of turkey, football, television, too much eating, and if you’re lucky, family or friends to join you. Do you recall Thanksgiving’s earliest beginnings? The earliest traditions come from the Old Testament, when Moses commanded the children of Israel to offer a festival of thanksgiving in memory of God’s provision for them in the wilderness. Our national symbol of Thanksgiving comes from the feast celebrated by the early Puritans at Plymouth Rock and a group of Native Americans who offered these Europeans true hospitality. Both groups were in need, but out of their need they shared with one another. They learned the art of living thankfully and sharing generously. These New England Pilgrims who had fled religious persecution patterned their first Thanksgiving after the Old Testament event. Without enough provisions and unprepared for one of New England’s harshest winters, the company buried over half of their loved ones by the following spring. I have always been taken by the notion that Thanksgiving came from a people

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who were anything but affluent. In a similar fashion, President Abraham Lincoln called for a day of Thanksgiving in the middle of the Civil War! I could easily understand calling for such a day after the surrender of General Lee and the end of the war, but during the days of bloodshed…? Giving thanks in all things is really an act of faith. God calls us to be thankful, in all times and in all places. Why? Somehow a thankful attitude takes the focus off of myself and helps me to refocus from what we don’t have to what we do have. A thankful attitude helps us focus on God’s faithfulness, and reminds us that God provides. Thanksgiving is an intensely spiritual practice, building one’s faith. I read of a recent study that indicates that thanksgiving can help improve our health. We cannot separate thanksgiving from faith. Genuine thanksgiving comes from a contented heart. Over many years in ministry I have witnessed individuals who having lived through trauma and loss emerge from their disaster with a profound sense of contentment and thanksgiving. On the other hand I have grieved over those friends who somehow in the midst of their losses have become stuck. Rather than reclaim a sense of the goodness of God and the possibilities of life, they have grown cynical and sometimes angry. Those other sad souls have continued to relieve their losses over and over again, never moving very far forward from the places of disaster. The contented souls have told me that one of the keys to a new life has been the rediscovery of the blessings still in their lives. Years ago I noticed a strong relationship between truly generous people and a grateful spirit. During my college years at ORU I spent one long year as a waiter in an area Mexican restaurant. The management allowed us to be servers without any pay and the only income received were tips left at the end of a meal, so we waiters

took special notice of the varied people and their generosity. The most generous tippers always showed a more grateful attitude toward the servers, regardless of the service. Almost without exception, we could identify the generous tippers at the moment of taking an order. From these experiences, I developed a belief that one of the signs of a thankful and contented heart was a genuine spirit of generosity. Generous people tend to be less demanding; they tend to look for the positive and tend to overlook the less significant. Generous people are generally more appreciative and thoughtful, showing gratitude for the little things. One of my favorite New Testament books is Paul’s little letter to the Philippian Church. Paul writes a thank you letter for the care package this small congregation had previously sent to him while he was serving prison time. Several times he mentions his appreciation for their thoughtfulness and the fact that only these friends had sent such a gift. They are the same congregation that Paul holds up to the Corinthian church as an example of generosity (2 Corinthians 9:1– 5). Near the end of this little note he says to them again how thankful he is that they remembered him, not because he was in need but because it is so good to be generous. Paul brings these comments together when he says that he has learned to be content having plenty and not having enough because he “can do all things through Christ who strengthens” him. (vs. 4:13) Thanksgiving leads to generosity and flows from a contented heart that is grounded in faith. In the midst of days of great uncertainty and loss, the Old Testament prophet Habbakuk writes: Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. –Habbakuk 3:17–18, NIV

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GRANDPA JOHN

Moving To Texas by John C. Westervelt When my grandchildren moved to Texas in August 1997, I recorded my feelings to share with folks like you:

789 Fall Retreat 2012 Before fall retreat, I was afraid to let God truly show through me. I didn’t want to talk with most of my friends about God, or people who aren’t Christians. During fall retreat, I realized it doesn’t matter what people think. We wouldn’t be on this earth if it weren’t for God, and we wouldn’t be forgiven if Jesus didn’t die on the cross for our sins. If you think you aren’t worthy of Jesus’ love, then you’re wrong. In the Bible, it tells us Jesus washed the disciples’ feet. Jesus is higher than high, and He washed Judas’ feet, even though He knew Judas would betray Him! I learned to not be afraid to stand out, because Jesus loves us no matter what. I learned to stop listening to those who try to bring me down, because I need to follow what Jesus tells me, not what the world is trying to tell me. I also learned that being a “loser” means you would lose your life for Jesus. Matthew 10:39 changed the way I think. It says, “Whoever finds his life, will lose it and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” So after fall retreat, I am no longer afraid to be a loser for Jesus and go out and change the world by telling others about His love. Do what you do for Jesus not the world. So be a loser for Jesus with me and spread the Word! Anyone can change the world; join me as I follow Jesus! –Kendall Parris, 7th grade I always went to church but never really got into it until fall retreat. It really opened my eyes to how much God loves and cares about me. I finally really understood God’s love the second night when we washed each others’ feet to experience being a “loser” for Jesus and follow in His footsteps. I couldn’t stop crying! But I’m glad, because after fall retreat I have a better relationship with God! – Lindsay Saul, 7th grade

he tops of the roses in the garden beside the patio presented a smorgasbord of red, pink, cream and orange. The morning sun was still hiding behind the neighbors’ trees. Just as I finished my bacon and eggs, a car arrived. Paul, Sandy, Brett and Amy got out. Katy, the friendly, family dog, stayed on the sheets in the back seat. My son and his family had left their van filled with precious belongings in my garage overnight. These two vehicles would soon be joined by another driven by Sandy’s parents, Chris and Nancy. The three carloads would caravan to my son’s family’s new home in Katy, west of Houston. After crowding more luggage into the van, Paul and Brett, in a matter-of-fact way, shook my hand. Sandy and Amy were not so nonchalant. They shared a warm hug, and then were on their way. I stayed at the patio table awhile. The many colors of the roses blended into one, as I let my eyes and mind fall limply into memories. Amy is now twelve, and for several years has preferred overnight stays with church, school and soccer friends. It had not always been so. My thoughts drifted backward nine years to when Amy was three. She was too young to remember her Grandma Nelda dying a year earlier. I was her choice for overnight stays. On an October Saturday in 1988, Paul, Sandy and Brett went with their good friends, Bob and Pat Schroeder, to Stillwater for the day and for a 6:30 football game between OSU and TU. When they dropped off Amy, she said, “When I get big, I can go to Stillwater, too.” Amy and I were to play for a day and then meet her family at Asbury on Sunday morning. After lunch and a nap, Amy and I headed north on Sheridan toward the zoo. The 3 year old’s conversation was continuous and contagious. Since Amy’s legs were short, we rode the train to the south end and walked back as we visited with the animals. Just beyond the train stop, we found the seals. It was an instant friendship between Amy and the daddy, mommy and two baby seals. The daddy seal was on the top platform, which seemed to be his territory. The babies chased each other. It was as if all four seals could hear Amy's continual chatter as they performed to her requests. The daddy seal dove into the water. Both Amy and I were surprised at how fast the seals could glide about the pool, barely missing the sides. In my mind, we should have kept the tour moving, so we could say we had seen all of the animals at the zoo. After seeing the lions and giraffes and zebras, Amy said, "Let’s go back to see the seals." The two babies were now on the high platform taking their nap. In their sleep they kept twitching, trying to snuggle closer together. It may be that God designed them this way to share body warmth. After more talking to the four seals, we looked at fish in the building close by.

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COMMUNITIES

A Living Legacy by Diane King

sbury has one community that formed because of their extreme desire to serve as leaders in their children’s ministries. The Legacy community traces its roots back to a young married couples’ class taught by former Associate Pastor Dick McKee, the Homebuilders. As these couples grew and learned together, they began to have children and build their families. Wanting to be an active part of their children’s lives, many heeded the call to help with children’s ministry on Sunday mornings. When they would rotate off their duties of serving and try to plug back in to their adult community, they felt disconnected because of the time missed. As conversations began to happen about these feelings, the idea formed to create an adult community specifically for those who wished to volunteer in the children’s ministry. After the move to the new building on Mingo, that idea became a reality. In September of 2004, the Legacy community was built on the premise that all the adult members would serve in the children or youth ministry on the same rotation. They would meet in community every Sunday of the month except one, and on that Sunday they would serve at Asbury together. This obviously met a need for many adults, because over 100 people turned out for their first meeting of the new Legacy community. When deciding who would teach this new group, they wanted someone who was a little older and had more experience being parents and could help them in that role, yet not old enough to be their own parents’ age. John and Marti Curzon accepted the invitation to teach the class and still continue in that role today. “John does most of the teaching, but sometimes we team teach on a subject, and sometimes when John is out of town, I teach,” says Marti. “We are to the point now that there are many who are quite capable of teaching, so we encourage them to teach when we’re gone, or when we know it will be a smaller group and not so intimidating. It’s so fun to see them step up and teach.” Some of the subjects studied are Bible studies on marriage, parenting, Tom’s sermon series, or whatever the Holy Spirit seems to be leading them to do. “It’s funny how often we feel led to teach on something that turns out to be more about the same thing Tom talks about in his message that day.”

“They were there for me when I went through breast cancer. I was overwhelmed with the support I received through prayer, phone calls/texts, meals (we were fed for six months!), my chemo buddies who would go with me for treatment, driving my kids around, etc. But the most important thing to me was the relationships that were developed and deepened. What could have been a year of fear and bitterness was a year of blessing. Also, the class laid hands on me and prayed over me prior to my treatment. It was so neat to feel the spirit of God transferred through my Legacy friends. A very powerful moment! From that point on I went upon my cancer/ chemo journey at peace.” Amy Greenhaw received the same extreme level of care from this group in different circumstances. “While Jon was in Afghanistan for a year, our community supported us in so many ways. It is difficult to express the depth of our gratitude. I cannot imagine going through last year without our community.”

Most of the Legacy couples had small children when they first started the class, but over time, their children have grown up to be teenagers, and a few are even graduating from college now.

Of course, they have fun together and regularly meet for socials together, including dinner groups, and parties. This is when you can tell how large the class really is, because on Sundays, many are serving throughout the children and youth ministry. Tracy Rinehart recounts one memorable event. “During an annual Christmas Party [we had] a white elephant (dirty Santa) gift exchange. Brian Mitchell wrapped a LIVE lobster in a gift box! We don't remember who the recipient was, but we will never forget her scream when she opened the box!”

Not only is the Legacy community involved in numerous service projects, they are still very active in serving right here at Asbury in both the children and youth areas. Taking care of their members in time of need is also a priority. Lori Howard found that out in a very real way.

The name Legacy was chosen because they wanted to be an active part in teaching their children about serving God. Legacy community has 107 members who are mostly couples in their 30s and 40s. They meet in room 2504 at 9:15 on Sunday mornings; and they’d love to have some new members join them.

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Worship Together by Stephanie Hurd

orship together. Seriously. Take your kids to worship with you.

As part of the writing team for the prayer journals, I discovered some eye-popping statistics during the research phase of the “Playing for Keeps” project: 1. 50 to 75 percent of kids at Asbury will abandon their faith after high school. 2. The number one factor in helping young people develop faith that “sticks” is intergenerational worship and relationship. 3. People who grow up in church attending worship and not Sunday school are more likely to be involved in church as adults than young people who attend Sunday school without attending worship. 4. Parents are the top influencers in their children’s spiritual lives. When it comes to a child’s faith—parents get what they are. 5. Worship is the one thing we can learn/teach that lasts for eternity. These statistics are game-changers but the thought of “teaching” our kids to worship had never occurred to me or Dave. Honestly, we were not sure we understood worship well enough to “teach” it. So? We would learn together. We made Sundays “donut day” and opted to attend the 11:00 am Sanctuary service for a period of time. Being the most liturgical—meaning it follows a prescribed form for public worship based on long-standing traditions—made it the best classroom. We were welcomed warmly, and nobody seemed to mind us whispering to the kids throughout the service as we flipped through the Bible, looked up information in the hymnal or jotted down unfamiliar words. Afterwards we talked about the sermon and researched components we did not understand. As a family, we became more educated and more engaged. Also, we learned a different style of worship which made it more about ministering to God and less about ministering to ourselves. After intentionally spending time as “worship students,” we discovered our kids have much to offer the Lord in their worship of Him, and the Holy Spirit is eager to meet with them and help guide them through the process. Now we enter each service with the “holy expectation” that all four of us will encounter the Lord in a meaningful way. We were made for God’s glory and our eternal purpose is to worship Him—that is something every child should know and every family should experience together.

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OPPORTUNITIES

Asbury Opportunities MYASBURYTULSA.ORG

GENERAL INFORMATION 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 • $4 for adults and $1 for children 12 and under SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP

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

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

RECYCLING

Recycle unwanted paper products. Three bins are available, located in the south and east parking lots. Recycle aluminum cans by bringing them (in plastic garbage bags) to the wire collection cage located up the short driveway towards the east side of Asbury’s main church building. Thank you for helping to support the Boy Scouts. DOORS OF ASBURY POSTERS ARE AT THE WELCOME CENTERS...

FREE! Suitable for framing.

SUNDAYS FOR CHILDREN AND STUDENTS

6 Weeks–Pre-K K–6th Grades 7th, 8th & 9th Grades 10th, 11th & 12th Grades

This website is available to all members as a way to update your contact information, register for events, give online and indicate ministries you would like to receive communication from. Make sure you have an account and check it out.

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 - Wednesdays at 6:00 pm SURGERY OR HOSPITALIZATION SCHEDULED?

Be sure to let Asbury know ahead of time by calling the church receptionist at 918.492.1771 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.

NEW ADDITIONS TO THE LIBRARY

The Asbury Library is a wonderful resource. Thank you to all who continue to contribute books to our Library. OJT (OVERCOMING JOB TRANSITIONS)

Invite people you know dealing with job issues to OJT. We offer encouragement, prayer support and hands-on workshops helping with resumes, networking, interviewing, the internet and more. Meets the third Tuesday of each month. • Tuesday, November 20, 6:30–9:00 pm • Room 2319 • Contact Russ Knight at OJTJobs@gmail.com

ACCESS HANDS OF LOVE SIGN CHOIR

• Sundays, 5:30–6:30 pm, Family Room FRIENDS IN CHRIST COMMUNITY

• Sundays, 11:00 am, Room 1507

BIBLE STUDY OVERFLOW PARKING AT UNION HIGH SCHOOL

Asbury’s Sunday overflow worship parking area will return to the Union high school parking lot (located along Mingo Road towards the north corner of their campus). Asbury shuttle service will operate continuously each Sunday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm.

Check out our adult Bible studies listed in our RoadMap brochures found at all welcome centers or online at www.asburytulsa.org/ AdultMinistries/Roadmap.aspx.

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OPPORTUNITIES

–– Contact Sue Fisher at healinghatsmin@aol.com or 918.455.2816

CARE AND SUPPORT SURVIVING THE HOLIDAYS

Experiencing grief and loss can be especially painful during the holidays, so let’s spend some “sharing” time together. You are not alone. Bring a friend or family member, and come join us. There will be special programming for children five and older in a separate room at the same time. • Saturday, November 3, 10:00 am–12:00 pm • Parlor • Facilitator: Claudia Kleeman • To register, call 918.392.1191 • Cost: None STEPHEN MINISTRY TRAINING

What is Stephen Ministry? God’s love in action to those dealing with life’s difficulties. Have mercy? Fifty hours of training begins mid-January. Monday morning or Thursday evening options. Learn more at an Info Meeting: • Monday, November 5, 9:30–10:30 am, Room 2500 OR • Thursday, November 8, 6:30-–:30 pm, Room 1621 • Contact Charlene, 918.392.1145, cgiles@asburytulsa.org 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/BALL CAPS

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 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

• Design patriotic cards for Asbury-related military. Cards can be designed at home and drawn by hand or on the computer. Call Jo VanDeWiele at 918.459.0888. • Design encouragement cards for prayer card ministry. Cards can be designed at home and drawn by hand or on the computer. Calligraphers and help with mailing also needed. Contact Gwen Mohler at 918.258.5479 or grmohler@aol.com. DIVORCE RECOVERY

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 or decorate a ball cap 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. In addition, the following groups meet regularly for fellowship, while using their creative ability to make hats: • Crochet Group –– Second and fourth Tuesdays, 6:30–8:00 pm –– Room 1506 –– Contact Sue Fisher at healinghatsmin@aol.com or 918.455.2816 • Ball Caps (If you can cut and glue this is for you!) –– Fourth Tuesdays, 9:30–11:30 am –– Room 1508 –– Baseball caps and decorating items available

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 Lisa at 918.298.9014 or lisa_dalt@sbcglobal.net

For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma. • Tuesdays, 7:00–8:30 pm • Room 1335 • Childcare available • Contact Malia Miller at 918.494.9596 or malia.miller@ sbcglobal.net DIVORCE REBUILDING

For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce. • Thursdays, 7:00–8:30 pm • Room 1335 • Childcare available • Contact Jim Small at 918.697.4220 or divorce-rebuilding@ cox.net

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OPPORTUNITIES

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES

• • • •

ASBURY BEAR BAGS

6th graders will have a good ol' time bobbin' for apples, turkey bowling and all those fun fall festivities. • Sunday, November 4, gym • 6:30–8:00 pm • Cost is $5 • Contact Shanon at 918.392.1170 or sbrown@asburytulsa.org for more information

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

Sunday, November 18, meet at 12:30 pm Rock 6 room Cost is $5 for a pizza lunch Contact Christina Treat at 918.392.1172 or ctreat@ asburytulsa.org

ODD SUNDAY FOR 6TH GRADERS

Asbury Bear Bags with coloring books have comforted young children for many years, but now you may give a Bear Bag with a scripture-based journal included instead! Great for teens and adults. Anyone may deliver an Asbury bear to someone who is grieving. • Contact Sue at suemorey@yahoo.com

CHILDREN 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 9:00 am–12:00 pm • Monday and Tuesday 8:45 am–12:00 pm • Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 5:45 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 Abby Sluice at 918.392.4583 or asluice@asburytulsa.org WEDNESDAY NIGHT LIVE

Join us on Wednesday nights for worship in the Chapel—kid style. We will combine music, high energy, verse memory 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 mornings. • Wednesdays, 7:00–8:00 pm • For more information contact the following staff members: kindergarten - Stephanie L. at 918.392.1171; 1st and 2nd grade - Shanon at 918.392.1170; 3rd–5th grade - Jennifer at 918.392.4582. 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 a signed permission slip.

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE

The 4th–6th graders have the privilege of presenting the Christmas Story to the congregation at the 5:00 pm Christmas Eve Family Service. We would love scripture readers, instrumentalists, actors, and actresses to make this a memorable evening for all involved. All parts will be assigned before the first rehearsal! Adult help with rehearsals and the program is critical to get the message delivered on this special night. If you are available, please let us know! • Register by December 3 • Call Jennifer Barnes 918.392.4582 or jbarnes@asburytulsa.org for information 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 or ewallis@asburytulsa.org 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 “Community Life” 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 9:15 am in room 1507, “Transitions,” or “Rooted” for married couples in room 2314

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OPPORTUNITIES

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? Contact the church office at 918.492.1771 to volunteer.

MARRIAGE & FAMILY COUPLE-TO-COUPLE TRAINING

See how you can make a difference in families of the future. Serve as a support couple to an engaged couple. Meet with them to discuss strengths and growth areas of their relationship which are revealed in the results of a relationship inventory. Couples of all ages and remarried couples are needed. Twenty hours of training required. Training starts mid-February. Learn more at info/dessert night: • Tuesday, December 4, 6:30–8:00 pm, Parlor • Contact Charlene Giles, 918.392.1145, cgiles@asburytulsa.org ATTENTION ENGAGED COUPLES

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

MEMBERSHIP

• • • •

Community Life Center (CLC) Childcare available for children six weeks through sixth grade Lunch provided Call 918.392.1191 to register

MEN VETERANS CELEBRATION

The UMM and Boy Scouts, in connection with our Military Connection, will be celebrating our veterans in preparation of Veterans Day. Please drop by for free snacks, music and inspirational speakers. Please bring your service headgear. • Sunday, November 4, 12:15 pm • Family Room • No cost and no reservation needed MEN’S MINISTRY – CAR CARE VOLUNTEERS

If you like to work on cars, check tires, belts, fluids, filters and batteries, we have an opportunity for you. Put your faith and skills into action. Come join other volunteers as we perform basic maintenance checkups on the vehicles of widows and single women of Asbury. Workdays are every other month, 5 times a year. • Saturday, November 10, 9:00 am–noon • Family Center entrance • To volunteer, contact Mike Nalley at mnalley16@cox.net 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

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

ASBURY EXPLORATION

Are you interested in membership at Asbury or just want to learn more about who we are? Plan to attend Asbury Exploration. After a wonderful lunch, which is provided, you will enjoy time with our Asbury pastors as you learn about the ministries of Asbury, important United Methodist beliefs and how you can get into the mainstream of our life together at Asbury. • Sunday, November 4, 12:15–2:00 pm

THANKSGIVING FOOD BASKETS

If you would like to donate to the Thanksgiving Baskets, the cost for one basket is $50. Please make checks payable to Asbury UMC with “food baskets” on the memo line. The Thanksgiving Food Baskets will be assembled and delivered

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OPPORTUNITIES

as a part of 2nd Saturday. Individuals, families and children welcomed. Come enjoy fellowship with some of the Youth at Heart kids as we assemble the baskets together. Delivery will then be to the apartment complex community centers where a brief gathering with the families will take place. • Saturday, November 10 • Meet at Venue 68 at 8:30 am • Contact Radhika Aussieker at 918.392.1116 with questions 2ND SATURDAY

Looking for an easy way to make a difference and shares Christ’s love in Tulsa? Join us for 2nd Saturday and choose between local mission opportunities. Families with children are welcome and encouraged! • Saturday, November 10, 8:30 am–12:15 pm • Meet at Venue68 ADOPT A CHRISTMAS CHILD

We have a wonderful opportunity to reach out to children connected to our local outreach ministries. The children have requested articles of clothing with sizes and a game or toy. We ask that you provide one article of clothing and one game or toy. Please prayerfully consider how you might be able to help with this outreach. If you have any questions, please contact Jamie at 918.636.2460 or Radhika at 918.392.1116. • Sunday, November 18: Cards with names will be available at the south entrance by preschool and upstairs by elementary, north entrance, CLC gallery (L), Venue lobby north • Sunday, December 2: Wrapped gifts due back at CLC gallery • Saturday, December 8: Gifts delivered as one of the 2nd Saturday site options VIM 2012 TEAM SCHEDULE

• November 7–11 –– Rio Bravo, Mexico, Medical, $700 For more information about these exciting mission opportunities, contact Marilene Long at 918.392.1164 or mlong@asburytulsa.org. For information about the men’s Rio Bravo, Mexico opportunities, contact Jim Furman at jnlfurman@cox.net.

lead us in scripture and carols for the season of Advent. • Sunday, December 9, 2012 at 6:00 pm • Sanctuary RICK FRALEY PIANO CONCERT

Rick Fraley, one of Tulsa’s finest pianists, will present an hour long concert in the beauty of our sanctuary. His contemporary arrangements of traditional Christmas music will take you from the hustle and bustle of the season to the manger. Please join us for this third Sunday of Advent concert. • Sunday, December 16, at 6:00 pm • Sanctuary 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 CELEBRATION RINGERS

• Tuesdays, 4:30–5:30 pm • Handbell room CHILDREN’S CHOIRS

Come learn about God through music as we sing, play instruments, play musical games. • Wednesdays, 6:00–6:50 pm • Available for children age four (by September 1, 2012) through sixth grade ASBURY POWER & LIGHT CO.

• Sundays, 8:00–9:15 am • Orchestra room

PRAYER

VIM LEADER TRAINING

• November 3 (Chapel Hill UMC, OKC)

ELECTION PRAYER WATCH

MUSIC SERVICE OF LESSONS AND CAROLS

We will celebrate the Second Sunday of Advent with a Service of Lessons and Carols. The New Covenant Orchestra, the Chancel Choir, the Celebration Ringers, One Voice, and our pastors will

“Prayer has always been the fuel that powered the work of God and the force which determined the course of history,” says Dutch Sheets. With America at a crossroads, we invite you to join in a come-and-go election prayer watch for our nation. Prayer guides will be available. • Tuesday, November 6, 7:00 am–9:00 pm • Main prayer room

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OPPORTUNITIES

ASBURY’S PRAYER WALK

We invite you to seize a new opportunity to integrate prayer and exercise. Asbury’s Prayer Walk utilizes the continuous sidewalks around our building’s perimeter in conjunction with strategically placed signs marking seven targets of prayer that influence culture. Asbury’s Prayer Walk is a catalyst to impact our community and our world for God’s glory. ALTAR PRAYER

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

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 Venue68 –– Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–9:00 pm –– Saturday, 10:00 am–3:00 pm –– Sunday, 12:30 pm–9:00 pm To obtain door codes, call Pam in the Adult Ministries office at 918.392.4589.

RECOVERY CELEBRATE RECOVERY

SENIOR ADULTS Come get acquainted with Rev. Guy Ames, one of Asbury’s newest pastors. Marti Law-Lowery, music director at Will Rogers UMC in Tulsa, will be the vocalist. Enjoy a delicious lunch, fun and fellowship. • Thursday, November 8, 10:30 am–1:00 pm

SENIOR ADULT DAY TRIP

Come enjoy this full day at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium and the Oxley Nature Center. We will take a fascinating tour of the museum and learn about our aviation history and the future of space flight. At Oxley Nature Center, we will relax and enjoy the rich diversity of Tulsa’s natural and cultural history. Lunch of turkey, dressing and all the trimmings will be at Evelyn’s Soul Food Cuisine Restaurant near the museum. • Friday, November 9 • Gather at 10:45 am at Asbury’s Family Center entrance; return at 5:00 pm • Cost is $23 per person (includes admission and lunch) • Deadline to register is Thursday, November 1 • Registration forms available at south information desk 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

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

TWEENAGERS PROGRAM AND LUNCHEON

• CLC • Lunch is $1.00, and donations for missions and other expenses are welcomed • No reservations required • For ages 55 and older

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, sally77onestick@cox.net

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OPPORTUNITIES

• Contact Mark Fowler 918.392.1155

SINGLES SINGLES MINISTRY LUNCHEON

Single adults and their families are invited to this luncheon and mixer. Come get acquainted with other singles at Asbury while enjoying a great lunch, fun and fellowship. See you there. Bring a friend. • Sunday, November 11, 12:15–1:30 pm • CLC • Cost is $5.00 per person and kids 10 and under eat free • No reservations required ADULT VOLLEYBALL

Do you enjoy playing recreational volleyball, mixed in with a little bit of competitiveness? Then come join us for a few hours of exercise, fellowship and fun. All skill levels of play are welcome. Good sportsmanship and positive attitudes are required. It’s free and you do not have to be a member of Asbury to participate. • Every Sunday, 6:00–9:00 pm • Gym • Questions? Contact Doug at 918.607.0830

CONFIRMATION PARENT MEETING

Come join us for an update on what’s happening in confirmation. • December 2, Venue68 • 4:45–6:00 pm 8TH GRADE PURITY CLASS PARENT MEETING

If your student is in 8th grade, come to our parent meetings about the purity class and how you can help. • October 14 and November 4, 6:15–8:00 pm • Upstairs in Venue • Contact Marsha Baker 918.392.1157 with questions 10 11 12 SUNDAY MORNINGS

Join us every Sunday morning for an in depth Bible study and discussion. • Sundays, 9:15 am • High school room 10 11 12 SMALL GROUPS

COMMUNITIES

• Sundays, 9:15 am – New Beginnings Class, Transitions (mixed singles/married) • Sundays, 11:00 am – Ambassadors for Christ, Footprints (ladies only), Salt & Light, Christ Centered Singles, Single B.A.S.I.X. • You are always welcome to join any other communities that are not “Singles Only,” as most are a mix of singles and marrieds.

STUDENTS JUNIOR HIGH SUNDAY BREAKAWAY

Sunday Mornings we have two great options. At 9:15 am, we have our large group time with a worship band, fun games and God's Word. Then at 11:00 am, we have a small Bible Study group. Whatever your preference, don't miss out. 8TH GRADE SMALL GROUPS

Sex is a hot topic today so where better for our 8th graders to learn the truth and understand God’s intentions for sex than at church. Twice a month, Marsha will teach the girls and Mark the boys. • November 4 and 11 • Children’s area • Purity student/parent celebration on December 2, 6:30 pm, CLC 9TH GRADE SMALL GROUPS

Another year is here and that means that small groups are back. This year, meetings are twice a month and held at their leader’s homes. Can’t wait to see you there!

Get connected. Grow in your walk with Jesus. Our small groups meet every Sunday night, times vary. Some meet in homes and others at the church. • Call Todd 918.392.1154 or Amy 918.392.1156 for more info 10 11 12 WEDNESDAY NIGHTS

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. • Wednesdays, 7:00 until around 8:30 pm • Hang around for pizza afterwards

WOMEN UMW NOVEMBER UNIT LUNCHEON

From hopelessness, to a sanctuary, to a witness for Christ! Asbury’s own Nancy Baxter will describe her recent journey to Nepal where she was able to assist young women being pulled out of human slavery. Come hear how God is working to save lives, especially in the most unimaginable circumstances. Scripture: Jeremiah 30:17. • Thursday, November 1, 11:30 am–1:00 pm • CLC • Cost is $8.00 • No reservation necessary CAR CARE WORKDAY

Single women and widows of Asbury, while you wait in the comfort of the Family Room café, volunteers from the Men's

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OPPORTUNITIES

Ministry will check your tires, belts, fluids, filters and batteries and do a basic maintenance check up. They will also vacuum and wash your vehicle, and then update you on what is running smoothly and what needs professional attention. This free service gives our men the opportunity to put their faith and skills into action by serving others. Workdays are every other month, 5 times a year. • Saturday, November 10, beginning at 9:00 am • Have your vehicle in line no later than 11:30 am • Family Center entrance • No reservations necessary • Contact Mike Nalley at mnalley16@cox.net WOMEN OF THE WORD

• • • •

Wednesdays, 10:00–11:00 am Room 2818 No childcare available Teacher is Rev. Darlene Johnson

WORSHIP 8:00 AM COMMUNION SERVICE

• • • •

Mason Chapel Traditional service and music 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 • Dr. Tom Harrison preaches 11:00 AM MODERN SERVICE

• Venue68 • Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by Chris Cleveland and team • Sign interpreters for the deaf are offered • Rev. Todd Craig preaches

In the Zone t-shirts for sale!

y god f i r o gl s ciple s i d make

Children’s Ministry is selling t-shirts to raise money for our sister church in Parnu, Estonia. Agape Church will use the proceeds to fund their Christmas outreach, and for VBS t-shirts next spring. For an economical price of only $10.00 you can get one of these t-shirts, and know you are helping spread God’s Word to unchurched children in Estonia.

TIDINGS, NOV E M BER 2 012

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

Marriages, Births and Deaths MARRIAGES • Melissa Louise Weidman & Spencer Duke Westfall married 9/15/2012 • Lauren Elizabeth Effron & Kyle Michael Shepard married 9/22/2012

BIRTHS • Vernal Taliaferro “Carter” Hopson III born 8/20/2012, son of Kelly Ganem and grandson of Tom & Denise Ganem

DEATHS: • Murray Gullatt died 8/28/2012, husband of Susan Gullatt

• Francis Helen Schneider died 9/3/2012 • Blanchie M. Purgason died 9/4/2012 • Rebecca “Becky” Joyner died 9/5/2012, wife of Ivy Brown Joyner • Jacob Douglas “Jake” Ebright died 9/12/2012, son of Chris & Buffy Ebright • Gretchen S. Evans died 9/13/2012 • John E. “Jack” Wing died 9/11/2012, husband of Sharon Corey-Wing • Margaret Rafferty died 9/17/2012 • Jack Ramsey died 9/18/2012, husband of Lorna Ramsey • Ralph Cunningham died 9/27/2012, husband of Helen Cunningham, father of Joe (Jessica) Cunningham

Milestone Anniversaries 60 YEARS • Dean & Regina Daniel

11/08/52

55 YEARS • Al & Ruth Sowards

11/23/57

45 YEARS • Jim & Mickey Toney

10/16/67 Dean & Regina Daniel 11/08/52

40 YEARS • Sid & Barbara Heidler

11/17/72

30 YEARS • Mike & Shirley Bennett • Joe & Marcia Kennedy

Al & Ruth Sowards 11/23/57

MILESTONE WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES 11/06/82 11/20/82

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

TIDINGS, NOV E M BER 2 012

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

New Members

Robert & Lynn Archibald

Mike & Rhiannon Baker with Kennedy and Sydney

Michael & Colette Galle with Mason, Mitchell and Emily

Beverly Marquardt

Michael & Janice Pregler

Colin & Brooke Campbell with Kennedi and Kerrington

TIDINGS, NOV E M BER 2 012

Randy & Beverly Pendergrass

Joe & Jo Stall

Communication Overload???

Preferred Communication Interests Starts November 25 Starting November 25 your preferred communication interests that you selected on myasburytulsa.org will go into effect. After November 25, if you did not select anything you will only receive communication from Pastor Tom Harrison and all-church events, no other communication will be sent to you. If you have not filled out your preferred communication interests, please do so before November 25.

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