Asbury
TIDINGS SEPTEMBER 2010
This
n o i t a r e n e G
THE YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY ISSUE
IT’S ABOUT YOUR STORY
GREAT MARRIAGE? - IT’S POSSIBLE
VENUEPM: OPEN LATE WHAT IS SECOND SATURDAY? - (THE ANSWER WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE)
JOIN “THE TEAM: - YOUNG ADULTS’ COMMUNITY GROWS
MEN ON A MISSION
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Asbury
TIDINGS SEPTEMBER 2010
This Tidings special focus is upon Asbury’s emerging Young Adult Ministry. I hope this Tidings will be informative and inspiring.
than any other group. I naturally speak to those who are Baby Boomers. But if we fail in our transmission of the Christian faith to the next generation, then the legacy stops. A shortsighted strategy is simply unacceptable.
When appointed to be your Senior Pastor in 1993, I was 38 years old. I was definitely in over my head. The bishop who appointed me had serious misgivings about my coming. How do you follow a much-beloved Senior Pastor, Bill Mason, who had guided Asbury so effectively for 29 years?
Since 2004 we’ve been responding in several ways. This Tidings edition describes some of what we’re doing to reach out to those in their twenties and thirties. We are striving for excellence in reaching single young adults and those who are married and without kids.
In spite of my insecurities, I had several things in my favor. Primarily, I believed God had called me here! Second, Bill Mason could not have been more gracious, and even fatherly to me. Third, the staff and congregational response has been powerful, too. Another advantage was in knowing why I came: to reach my generation (“Baby Boomers”) while hanging on to Bill’s (“The Greatest Generation”). When we relocated to our current facility in 2004, it was a great time! So many people rallied to support this unprecedented opportunity. Grateful for all that had been done in the past to make us who we were; it was also a time of optimism for our future opportunity to reach more people for Christ than ever before. I turned 50 in 2004. Our relocation made me think: “If my assignment 11 years ago previously had been to reach my generation while retaining Bill’s – what about the next generation(s)? Who will speak to them?” That has been the persistent issue for me since 2004. We won’t neglect Bill’s generation (or my mom’s). Our pastoral care hours are far more focused upon our seniors
Our “Mission Impossible” campaign greatly assisted our ability to provide excellence in children’s and student ministries. Our facilities are now advantages for us. Building “The Venue68” facility also provided new opportunities in worship. In addition to the Venue AM service, a Venue PM worship service has been created, which targets the twenty to thirty age group. Pastors Spencer Smith and Tiffany Smith, who are both in their late twenties, have been appointed here. Another pastor (who has been at Asbury since before he was bornJ), Todd Craig, is also heavily invested in this outreach. We have hired a director of Young Adult Ministries, Jon Odom, who is making connections and a difference here. Some sports ministries are developing here, too. We will work to learn how to more effectively communicate with our young adults – as this process is very different from the ways we have responded to generations in the past. We have many challenges before us. But we are passionate about this. Please pray for these invested in this outreach! See you, Sunday! Pastor Tom
CONTENTS 3. What’s Happening 16. What Is Second Managing Editor Tara Lynn Thompson 4. Great Marriage? It’s Possible Saturday? tara@taralynnthompson.com 6. Oliver’s Story 18. Joining the Team Graphic Designer Jonathan Van Risseghem 8. Young Adult Ministry 20. Got Milk? vanriss.com 10. Open Late Where’s the Beef! 12. Men On A Mission 22. RoadMap Photographer Don Kreutzweiser 14. Mercy In Central Asia 26. Opportunities donsimages.com Asbury Tidings is a monthly publication designed Guest Contributors Dana Thompson, Dwight Yoder, to tell stories of lives being transformed by the Kim Beair, Heather Nixon, Jon Odom, Mallory Dalton, power of Jesus Christ. You may read back issues Aaron Wendt, Rachel Read, Betty Higgins, Nikki Boyd by visiting www.asburytulsa.org Page 2
by Dwight Yoder, Executive Director
H
ave you thought
about who Asbury is, what are our characteristics, and where we want to be in the years ahead? Some of us have been giving such questions considerable attention as we think about how to better communicate within Asbury and to the broader community, what changes might be beneficial in some of our ministries, and how to relate to our younger generations. I will look at two major characteristics of Asbury, talk about the issue of communications, and then tie them together with an actual project underway. A significant aspect of Asbury is that we are multigenerational. A church cannot span a wider range than we do. For example, we have about 1,000 members age 70 or older. But we also have over 1,200 members age 34 and below. This brings strength to Asbury; it also presents challenges. Another characteristic of Asbury is captured by the word options. Asbury offers six worship services each with a different style. Many ministries are offered through Asbury. And within each of them there are usually options. We have always offered multiple points of engagement. There are benefits and challenges to this approach. (Let me make a side comment. On occasion someone will point out a benchmark church and ask how we are performing relative to it. I am in favor of benchmarking and of looking for best practices. But it must be done carefully. Often the referenced church is targeting a smaller age range, i.e., they are a younger church, offering one worship style at multiple times, and a more limited range of ministry options. Asbury is different in these regards. Our situation is more complex and is often hard to manage. But it is also a strength. Now back to the subject.) Every organization struggles with internal communications, as well as external (often referred to as marketing). We are no exception and are investing to improve. As we’ve studied this, one of the big things we’ve understood is how much difference there is between what is effective across the generations. The difference is huge. While we need to, and will, improve in all aspects, it is clear that we are least effective in communicating to our younger congregants. This, of course, is the very group that we must engage if we Page 3
want Asbury to be a viable church in the future. The most commonly used communication vehicle today is an organization’s web site. It is used to communicate internally, as well as to market externally. It is also used to support the operation of ministries. The vast majority of individuals who are looking for a church to attend will base part of their assessment on their experience with the web site. For many, that experience will be the determining factor in their decision. For some people, and this seems to be truer for the younger person, the overall presentation and look of the site is as important as the content. Our current web site is seven years old. It was great at the time it was created. But now it is time to build a new one that addresses the issues above and many others. Most importantly, it will be designed to better support the operation of our ministries. This includes a much clearer communication of a pathway of discipleship/engagement to our members, as well as visitors. As part of this effort we will update the look of Asbury regarding communication. We will use more upto-date fonts and graphic elements. We will be intentional about the site serving effectively as a means to attract people to Asbury. Our goal is to convey the characteristics noted above: We are multigenerational and we offer options (variety) for worship and service. One thing that will come out of this is a new Asbury logo to better serve the above objectives. In future columns, I’ll be talking more about the progress of our web site project, about the bigger subject of communications inside and outside of Asbury, and about ongoing efforts to determine how best to do our ministry work to accommodate our growth. Thank you for supporting Asbury.
Great Marriag My
husband and I completed the Dynamic Marriage course in April this year. It was an amazing class, and I cannot say enough to express how much it can do for a marriage. We recommend it to everyone we know. I’d like to give a little background to where I was in my marriage before starting this class. You see, at the end of last year I was very unhappy. I had expectations of how a marriage should be, and the things I used to look past were starting to bother me even more.
September Dynamic
are on Thursdays, starting Thu or Wednesdays, starting Wed Cost is $130
After having our son, I wanted that “perfect” marriage, but I was expecting my husband to make all the changes. Instead of surrounding myself with things encouraging me to better my marriage, I was reaching out to friends who had marriage problems, as well.We would complain about our husbands and say how clueless they were.
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My mind-set was angry and bitter, and I was reaching for things that validated my thoughts. I was completely miserable, and it was affecting my marriage, which ultimately affected my son. I wasn’t a happy person and I hated that. I was going through the motions, but I was withdrawn. Then one day I went to church and listened to a service and something changed inside of me. The service had nothing to do with marriage, but it was powerful. It lit something inside of me to try harder in my marriage. That night I went to bed and looked over at my nightstand and saw the book I had purchased months before on bettering your marriage. I had started reading when I bought it, but it was telling me to do things I just couldn’t do.
I was too angry. Well, I picked it up and started reading it. Something was different inside of me this time. Right then and there I decided I wanted to be happy! I wanted to have a great marriage, and I was going to do everything I could to make it happen. Not only did I continue to read the book, I started to surround myself with things to encourage myself. I signed up for a daily marriage devotional e-mail.We were more diligent in going to church every Sunday,
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ge? It’s Possible
By Dana Thompson
c Marriage classes
ursday, Sept. 9, from 6:30-9 pm, dnesday, Sept. 15, 6-8:30 pm. for materials.
vided for both nights. contact Ron and Jackie, cmarriage@windstream.net.
Not only did I continue to read the book, I started to surround myself with things to encourage myself. I signed up for a daily marriage devotional email. We were more diligent in going to church every Sunday, and I was also watching services online. We even watched the Christian movie Fireproof together. I was doing everything I could to encourage myself. Then we signed up for the class. Even though it sounds like a lot of work, it was the best thing I have ever done. I was amazed at how
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quickly I started seeing changes when I started making efforts to make my husband happy instead of waiting for him to make me happy. The class made things even better! It gave us the opportunity to dig deeper into things and get a better understanding of each other’s needs and “love busters”. The changes I was making in our marriage only sparked my husband to make changes, and the class inspired him even more. I had never seen him so understanding and willing to make drastic changes to better himself and our marriage. Dynamic Marriage is an amazing class and I personally believe it can save marriages. Or it can turn an “okay” marriage into something so much greater! Isn’t that what we all want? A great marriage? A marriage that others are envious of? I know that’s what I wanted, but the only way to get it was to work on my marriage and put forth effort on a daily basis. Believe me, it’s worth it! Stop worrying about all the things your spouse is not doing for you and start focusing on the things you can do for them. Dynamic Marriage will help you learn how to get the best results for the efforts you put in. We want to thank Asbury for providing this wonderful class. I know it will continue to help marriages out there. I’m looking forward to taking the class again because we all need constant reminders and encouragement in putting forth effort in our marriages.
O liver’ STORY G
HELP CHILDREN WITH TYPE 1 DIABETES AT THE “WALK TO CURE DIABETES” ON SAT. OCT. 9, AT THE OU-TULSA SCHUSTERMAN CENTER
od prepared our family for a challenge that we never could have foreseen, and at the same time, He blessed us with someone amazing. That someone is my youngest child, Oliver.
Two years ago, when Oliver was only two, he became suddenly sick with flu-like symptoms. I took him to the urgent care after he became increasingly lethargic. That was the day We found out Oliver has Type 1 Diabetes and his life, as well as the rest of our family’s, was changed forever. I did not know anyone who had diabetes or anything about the disease. “What did I do wrong? Did I give him too much juice or sugar?” These were a few of the questions that I asked myself as I sat in the hospital with my newly diagnosed son. Over the next few weeks and subsequent years, my family and I learned a lot about Type 1 Diabetes. To begin with, Type 1 Diabetes, also referred to as juvenile diabetes, is a lifelong condition in which the body cannot control the amounts of glucose in the blood because the pancreas no longer makes insulin.
It is a genetic autoimmune disorder and does not occur as a result of poor diet or lack of exercise, and likewise it cannot be controlled by diet or exercise.
What this means for Oliver is that we have to prick his finger to check his blood glucose levels at least six times daily and administer insulin an average of five times a day. We have to count every carbohydrate that goes into his body and know which foods to eat and which to avoid. We constantly have to be on the lookout for symptoms of low blood sugar, which can be life-threatening if not treated. Alternately, we have to look for signs of high blood sugar, which can be lifelimiting over time, resulting in other serious diseases. God gave Oliver the best disposition imaginable. He is seldom without a smile on his face. He has his own language, consisting of various smiles. There’s his happy smile, his mischievous smile, his sleepy smile, and his shy smile. He even manages to smile through most of the finger pricks and shots. I know that Oliver will do great works for God b ecause of this disease! Page 6
’s By Heather Dixon
Although it is not always easy, I trust that God will provide our family with what we need to face this challenge. Often I am given strength, peace, hope, and laughter, all which surpass understanding and could come from nowhere else but God. He was preparing us for this challenge even before Oliver’s diagnosis. I was blessed with the opportunity to work at Asbury in children’s ministry six months before Oliver was diagnosed. As a result, Oliver has been able to attend preschool where I work, allowing me to treat his diabetes throughout the school day. Since the diagnosis, we have been blessed with amazing doctors, educators, and organizations like the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) to help us manage Oliver’s diabetes and meet other families facing the same challenges. JDRF gives hope to millions of families affected by diabetes through their commitment to finding a cure. This hope, paired with the hope we have in God’s plan for Oliver, is what helps our family live with Type 1 Diabetes one day at a time. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) is the number-one non-profit funder of diabetes research worldwide. One of JDRF’s largest fundraising events is the “Walk to Cure Diabetes.” This year we have formed a team named “Oliver’s Marching Menagerie” and are raising money toward this cause.This year’s walk will be held on Saturday, October 9, at the OU-Tulsa Schusterman Center. Page 7
The walk is called “The Greatest Walk on Earth” and is circus themed. Following the walk, there will be food, music, inflatables, clowns, and other circus fun. Oliver and our family would like to invite you and yours to participate with us. Here are a few ways you can help JDRF and Oliver find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes: •
Join our Family Team, “Oliver’s Marching Menagerie,” which consists of family and friends who collect pledges and walk with us. Contact me at hdixon@ asburytulsa.org and I will send you a pledge form.
•
Go to www.jdrf.org and click on “Walk to Cure Diabetes.” When the screen changes, fill in the name “Oliver Dixon” and our team name, “Oliver’s Marching Menagerie.” You can then make a tax-deductible contribution in any amount online. If you prefer, you can mail a check, made payable to JDRF, to Asbury Preschool or drop one off at Asbury in the preschool office. We will deliver any donations in Oliver’s honor the morning of the walk.
Oliver, now four years old, amazes us every day with the strength and joy he possesses in the face of this overwhelming disease. I cannot wait to see how he will use these gifts for God as he grows up. And our entire family, like many others, cannot wait for the day that diabetes is put on the list of “cured” diseases.
YOUNG
MINISTRY::: It’s A
By Jon Odom s the Coordinator of Young Adult Ministries, I constantly strive to develop and implement new opportunities that help young adults connect with Asbury’s 3-B’s: “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, Belong to the family of God and Become servants of Christ.”
Take for example, Zach, who is a 24-year-old originally from Mississippi. He moved to Tulsa early this year and knew only one person in town prior to relocating—his roommate—who was never around. Zach expressed how difficult it was being in an unfamiliar town, working in a new job and never getting to be around the one person he knew.
As part of that process, I always wrestle with the question, “How do I measure success?”
In an effort to meet people,he visited a number of different churches in Tulsa for several months before he tried out VenuePM and was invited to The Team community by several members.Though a little nervous at first, he decided to try it out. And he was glad he did.
It is true that quantitative growth is the most obvious sign of a thriving program, but it certainly doesn’t give the whole picture. To me, a big part of the answer to the question of success comes down to the idea of story. I want to hear the stories of transformation, of new connections and friendships being formed and of all the different ways individuals are serving Christ in the world. These stories are the intangibles of a healthy community. Numbers may tell the facts—we had such and such number of people at this community and this person was the speaker—but hearing an individual share his or her experience animates the facts and makes them relatable, personal, and invites other people to participate. It’s an exciting time to work with young adults at Asbury because these stories of Christ’s work surface every day.
Zach made some solid friendships that helped ease the discomfort of living in a new city. He has also become a regular to both VenuePM and The Team community. Reflecting on all of this, Zach told me, “This is the only place where I can come and let my guard down and let other people into my world.” I am also encouraged by the spontaneous fruit that I see regularly—people meeting up weekly to pray together, a group of young women taking intentional steps to encourage and push each other to serve Christ, and other young adults deciding on their own to take Venue68 flyers to concerts and events downtown to spread the word about what God is doing. The evidence of God’s hand at Asbury has also touched my life in a special way. During a particularly Page 8
ADULT About Your Story busy week, my wife came down with a double-ear infection. She was feeling terrible and we were both dog-tired from an especially busy week at work. Out of the blue, we got a phone call from a young couple at the church who told us that they heard Emily was sick and that they were on their way with dinner for us that night. We were floored! These are the kinds of things that you hope will happen in a Christian community but that you can’t make happen. You can’t twist someone’s arm and say, “I’m not letting go until you start spontaneously serving your brothers and sisters in Christ!” The thoughtfulness of our friends gave me pause that day. All I could do was thank God. We have worked to till the soil of community, but He caused the seeds to grow and produce fruit. Another story of God’s work among young adults is in the area of volunteering. Top to bottom, young adults are plugging in and helping to serve the church—in children’s ministry, by leading student ministry small groups, running sound or lights during worship services, through Second Saturday, in hospitality and on mission trips around the world. Young adults at Asbury are choosing to be contributors and not merely consumers. Seeing young Page 9
adults serve in the church demonstrates buy-in to me. It says, “I’m committed. I’m jumping in. I’m a part of this community and I’m here to help.” I think that sharing the stories of Christ’s work among us is one of the most important things we can do as a church.The older I get the more I realize that life is difficult and that the world is truly broken, needing God’s redemption. These stories offer encouragement that there is beauty in the middle of brokenness and hope despite a seemingly unfair reality. In addition, when I hear a new story of people practicing Christian community or serving Christ in the world, it encourages me to imitate their behavior. This is what Paul was talking about when he said that we should “spur one another on to good deeds.” I am energized by all of the stories of how Christ is transforming lives, building community, and sending people to serve and my prayer is that He would give us the grace to be faithful partners with Him in the process.
OPEN LATE - VenuePM brings new worship at new hours to a new crowd
By Nikki Boyd
“ SLEEPING IN, NOT A SIN ”
is VenuePM’s playful way to communicate that worship just doesn’t happen on Sunday morning. In fact, this Sunday evening service was created to counter that idea, says Spencer Smith, a leader of one of Asbury’s newer worship experiences. Worship isn’t just something someone does at a certain time; “worship happens whenever people gather in the name of Christ and proclaim the good news.” VenuePM was born out of the desire to reach new people. Though not exclusively for young adults, young adults were in mind. “We wanted to reach new people, and this is exactly what has been happening,” says Smith. “The service is not very big, but we are comprised mostly of new people to Asbury, and most of them have been under 30.”
Kicking off a year ago, VenuePM has allowed new people to Asbury, many younger people, to discover spiritual awakening. “We’ve seen people who have been totally disconnected from Christ connect through VenuePM to God and His Church,” says Smith. Through VenuePM, community groups have been established and new volunteers and leaders - people who before didn’t know how to lead and serve have emerged. There has even been a few long-time members say that they’ve been able to reconnect with Asbury because of VenuePM. Twenty-three year old Zach Wiseman recently moved to Tulsa from out of state and has been attending VenuePM since March of this year. “Worship here provides the atmosphere that allows me to have that one-on-one time with God, even though there are 100 people around me,” Wiseman says. Page 10
Through VenuePM, Zach was introduced to TEAM - a group of believers in transition from college to the ‘real world’. Being a part of this community has significantly impacted his walk with Christ. “Being able to hear and talk about the same struggles and gains in life is great,” says Wiseman. “We may be on different pages, but we are in the same
“Venue’s vision is essentially the same as the whole of Asbury: Glorify God, Make Disciples. It is not age specific,” explains Smith. “We want to provide a place where people, no matter the age, can experience God in a way that makes sense to them.” And Venue’s mission statement of “Worship, Community, and Justice” is simply a different version of
“ THE AM AND PM SERVICES OF THE VENUE ARE VERY DIFFERENT, PROVIDING WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR DIFFERENT PEOPLE. ” chapter of life. This is the kind of church home I’ve been praying for.”
Lloyd Landreth is a 51-year-old attorney who has been an Asbury member since 1996. His family had missed a Sunday morning service and decided to attend VenuePM. Within a few months, they were attending whenever possible. The AM and PM services of the Venue are very different, providing worship opportunities for different people. The VenueAM congregation is made up of mostly seasoned Asbury members, including a large number from the student ministry. VenueAM music is more “celebratory”, with worship leader Chris Cleveland giving a higher energy style with more light production. Preaching is provided via a simulcast of Pastor Tom Harrison from the 9:15 service. VenuePM meets on Sunday evenings at 6:30. Music is led by Ben Kilgore and his wife Noelle and they offer more acoustic music and a relaxed, contemplative atmosphere. The other big difference is that VenuePM preaching is live. The sermons are brought by Smith and Todd Craig as a team, trading off weeks. It gives the congregation an opportunity to hear different perspectives and different styles of preaching. Regular liturgy is also incorporated, whether in communion, corporate reading of Psalms or other Scripture, or utilizing creeds like the Apostle’s Creed. This atmosphere of worship, “relaxed, yet meaningful” style of preaching, and opportunity for personal reflection has made a mark on the Landreths. “VenuePM has the potential to be something akin to one big ‘Community,’” says Lloyd Landreth. Though the worship experiences of the Venue may differ from each other and Asbury’s other services, the passion is the same. Page 11
Asbury’s “Belong, Believe, and Become.”
“We’re simply using some different words that seem to connect with a different crowd,” Smith says. “We believe that you cannot separate acts of worship, community, and justice.These are all part of the same thing.”
Men
On A Mission By Aaron Wendt
SERVICE. RECIPROCATION. EXPECTATIONS. These words are not new and have been utilized for generations. I have seen them in practice since I was a child in a small farming community 40 miles west of Green Bay,Wisconsin. My grandparents and great-grandparents were farmers. People say things were simpler back in those days. In many ways, I think they were right. Take the barn for example: It was built in 1901 with the help of family, friends, and neighbors. The wood was gathered from a nearby forest and hauled by workhorses down the long dirt road, past the river to the farm. The logs were hand-hewn with a broad axe and turned into square beams. The foundation for this frame was born from stones that were turned up in the soil over the years and collected painstakingly by callused hands. Labor was simple, but backbreaking. There was much to be traded for service...cows, milk, corn, soybeans, etc. Some people simply helped because they knew one day it would be time for them to build a barn and the scales would be balanced out. Expectations have not changed much today. People
expect to be compensated, but if there is no monetary compensation there may still be reciprocation later on. If a neighbor helps paint your shed you might go help him in return when he needs a hand in his yard. If it’s not work that is exchanged, a more common example today would be dinner. The principles of reciprocity are by no means modern but they happen everyday both at work and at home. When they don’t work is when one party always asks for help without ever returning the favor. Do you ever invite people over for dinner whom you know can’t invite you back? Should we always be expecting something in return when we offer something to others? What would it be like if we lived in such a way that we served Christ and others without expecting anything in return? The best service is that which does not ask or require anything in return. Asbury provides this level of service through short-term missions. It means devoting time, energy, money, prayers, or any combination thereof without knowing that you will receive anything in return other than the satisfaction of knowing you have helped someone in need. Page 12
“Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, Fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” Romans 12:9-11
Will you make a difference? Can your impact even be calculated? I traveled to Mexico in April with Asbury to put this service into practice for Christ. We built structures and mixed a lot of concrete, and that difference can be seen. The 35 guys on the trip teamed up and split themselves into a few different work groups. Some ran wires for electricity, others dug holes with a pickaxe through mud, gravel, and old concrete, some mixed mud, poured concrete, and did stucco. Instead of traveling to Mexico and doing things “our way”, we did everything according to the specifications of the Mexican tradesmen who were in charge of the church building project. Off the jobsite everyone had an assigned task. We had team members who cooked meals and prepared lunches, drove the teams around, lead nightly devotions, brought in fresh water twice daily. The last
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night we were there, we served the residents around the mission over 500 hot dogs and teamed up with a Mexican church to put on an evangelistic festival for all in attendance. It is awesome that the church was there to follow up with those who made decisions for Christ that night. We also kept the kids entertained during the event with the playground built by a previous trip and a few pick-up soccer and basketball games. However, what is more profound is what cannot be seen beyond the wood and plaster and concrete. Imagine the lives of the men, women, and children who saw people who had traveled from hundreds of miles to willingly change their lives and communities for the better through Christ. Are you interested in finding out what true service is about? Give Asbury short-term missions a try in November. God will not only change your life but also the lives of those you serve.
Mercy in Central Asia Mallory Dalton
MERCY
IN CENTRAL ASIA By Mallory Dalton
IN MID-MAY
I traveled to Central Asia with Matt Hester; Dick, David, and Rachel Read; Scott and Thomas Briggs; and Chase Cooper, as a member of Asbury’s first young adult team to this particular ministry site. During the long flight from Chicago to Germany, I considered my expectations for the trip and was somewhat surprised to realize that most of my expectations revolved around the culture and the work I planned to do incountry, but they did not necessarily revolve around ways I anticipated God to work in me or to show Himself. When I committed to going to Central Asia with the team, I further committed to extending my stay another two and a half weeks so as to implement some of the Teaching English as a Second Language pedagogical theories that had become familiar to me in my area of graduate study; thus, much of my concentration relating to Central Asia pertained to the practicalities of language teaching as opposed to the spiritual aspect of the trip. God didn’t really allow me to maintain my limited perspective and comparatively unexceptional focus for long once I arrived in Central Asia, for which I am incredibly thankful.
Within the first couple of days of joining the longterm missionaries at their ministry site, Rachel and I spent a morning at the babies’ home, the local orphanage for children under three years of age. As a team, we constantly prayed that God would allow us to see what He sees and to feel what He feels toward this Central Asian country; within moments of cuddling the first Central Asian baby I picked up from the community crib in the nursery, I knew that God must ache for the orphans of Central Asia. As I held Penelope, I felt such overwhelming warmth toward her, mixed with a tangible anger and grief over her situation – emotions I simply could not sort out without a great deal of time. After leaving the babies’ home following that initial morning, Rachel and I first had to hug for a long time to help each other cope with the heaviness we felt, and then we had to process exactly what anguished us so much. We shared our disbelief at the way in which the government of the Central Asian country funds the provision of only two diapers per child, per day. We recounted the very apparent physical, mental, and Page 14
emotional developmental retardation of the majority of the babies. We mourned the loneliness of Samir, a two-year-old confined to a separate crib because of his severely debilitating cystic fibrosis. We discussed the callousness and unfeeling nature of the nurses hired to care for the orphans, and the way they rarely offered a comforting touch to a crying baby. We expressed the numbness we felt upon leaving the babies because their distress at seeing us go away so profoundly told of a painful reality: They are starved for treatment as human beings, and we had been among the few to barely satiate that need
in some time. Despite our best efforts at maintaining inner composure, Rachel and I were truly wrecked. Once the rest of the team left Central Asia, I decided that I wanted to spend any available time at the babies’ home with the orphans who had so touched my heart. Because of my teaching schedule and the visiting hours at the babies’ home, I was only able to spend time with the orphans for a handful of mornings. But regardless of my limited time with the orphans, God worked in me and taught me more about Himself through my time with them than through any other aspect of my trip to Central Asia. Each time I picked up and cuddled one of the precious babies, I could sense that God was speaking to me a truth that I hadn’t acknowledged for too long – that He is the God of mercy. It seemed strange for God’s mercy to resonate in my head and in my heart as I played with babies in the dark and meager post-Soviet orphanage; the stark appearance of the building and the austere demeanors of the nurses certainly did not evoke thoughts of tenderness or mercy. But in seeing the way the orphans responded with such eagerness and gratitude to the simple mercies I was able to show them – eye contact, a smile, a cuddle, a kiss on the forehead, a game of peek-a-boo, Page 15
words spoken in a loving tone – I thought about my response to the extravagant mercies the Father shows me daily – a family so faithful in their care and concern for me, breathtaking displays of His glory through nature, beautiful friendships with brothers and sisters in Christ, unique opportunities to experience the move of God, and of greatest worth, the hope that comes with each new day because of an intimate and eternal relationship with my Creator. So often instead of receiving these mercies with eagerness and gratitude, I respond by taking them
for granted, sometimes hardly acknowledging the infinite value of such mercies lavished upon one so undeserving. At the end of my time in Central Asia, I realized God had brought me to Central Asia, not for the purpose of gaining teaching experience, but rather for the purpose of developing a more poignant understanding of His merciful character. Moreover, He brought me to Central Asia to solidify in my heart His call upon those who have been shown the mercy of Christ to, in turn, show others the mercy of Christ. Although it was extremely difficult for me to leave the orphans I grew to adore in the babies’ home, I left with the peace that God would cover these children – whom He loves without measure – with His mercies seen and unseen, much as He has covered you and me – whom He also loves without measure – with His mercies seen and unseen. As we have been adopted into the family of God, pray that the orphans of Central Asia might also be adopted into the family of God, as well as adopted into earthly families who honor Christ as King. Furthermore, pray that God would open the eyes and the hearts of us, the Church, to His extravagant mercies so that we might be better worshippers of Him, and so that we might be more humble vessels of His mercy to those in need, thereby inviting His Kingdom of Light to transform even the darkest places in this world.
WHAT IS
Second Satu The Answer Could Change
It
is
Saturday
morning
and I wake up without having to press snooze on my alarm. My family is going to volunteer through Second Saturday at Asbury, and I am anxious to see what this involves. This is the first time we have been able to go because our schedules are so variable, and I am glad that Second Saturday requires no advance sign-up or registration. Here are some other things that make Second Saturday so appealing: 1) I appreciative that transportation is provided because, and this I hate to admit, I am a little concerned about driving and parking my car in a bad area of town. 2) I don’t want to get roped into a big, long commitment that I can’t finish or just end up feeling bad about – I have certainly been guilty of that in the past - but all I am committed to are the Saturdays I choose to come. 3) Right now, I am strapped and can’t afford to pay for or take much time off in serving. Second Saturday has no cost and only takes from 8:30am - noon. 4) Each month there are new and different sites to choose from so that my family and I have the option to serve at a variety of places throughout Tulsa. 5) I don’t need to bring any equipment or tools or have any special skills, just a willing heart to serve. I have that. My husband, eight-year-old daughter, and I arrive at the Venue at 8:30 am.
FUN FACTS
• Asbury’s Second Saturday began in February 2009. • Over 450 people have participated, with a monthly average in 2010 of 75. • Volunteers have contributed over 2,500 hours of free community service to the city of Tulsa.
We sign in, get name tags and go over and look at the list of projects we can choose from this morning. We can: 1) go to the food bank and pack boxes of food for families, or 2) go to Wesley United Methodist Church and help put up a fence and plant flowers, or 3) paint a Rebuilding Together Tulsa house for Mr. Jackson or 4) sort baby clothes and count diapers at Emergency Infant Services or 5) work on a Habitat house putting up siding. We decide to go the Food Bank, since we understand how important it is to help hungry people. Around 8:45, after a short prayer and introduction, we get on a school bus
with 18 other people. On the way
there someone talks about the Food Bank and explains how valuable volunteers are there. We find out that the Food Bank provides 50,000 meals every week to families in 24 counties in eastern Oklahoma. Wow! We also talk to a nice couple behind us who just joined Asbury and find out we live around the corner from each other. Page 16
urday? Your Life
By Betty Higgins
When we get there, we are taken to the warehouse, where we sort and pack box after box of food. It is not hard work, but we can see that without volunteers, the food bank couldn’t possibly handle the huge volume that it does. We work beside a church group on a mission trip from Dallas and some students earning community service hours for school. We talk about our lives and how difficult it must be for people who are hungry. It is so fun sharing this time with my daughter and seeing her serve from her heart. The two and a half hours fly by. At 11:45 am, we get back on the bus and return to Asbury, arriving back a little after noon. On the ride home we talk about what we experienced and imagine the people who will not go hungry because of our efforts. I love that my family experienced this time serving together. And the biggest part of the day is still left to do what I need to at home! Although this exact experience is fictional, the bulk of this story is a compilation of the many stories people have shared about serving through Second Saturday. Experiences similar to this are played out every month. The next Second Saturday is Saturday, September 11. What an awesome opportunity to go serve in our community on the anniversary of an event known for both sorrow and service.We would love to see you there!
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Additional Things That Have Happened Through 2nd Saturday • Someone saw the bad shape of the windows at St. Mark’s UMC and set the wheels in motion to donate $5,000 for new windows, which we got to see last month and they look great! • We have developed a long-term relationship with Wesley UMC, a struggling north Tulsa Methodist Church. Because of that relationship, the youth at Asbury spent a week helping at their kids camp, and have gone twice weekly over the summer. Tom Kurzyna, an Asbury member, loves Wesley and has developed friendships with the members. He goes out often and serves there on his own time. • Two other churches in Tulsa have started doing Second Saturdays, and there are others who have committed to start later this year. • We met with the mayor and his staff about helping the city with some projects, and are looking at coordinating two possible events later this year. • We have helped five Methodist churches in Tulsa, doing everything from mowing to painting to planting. • People have gotten plugged into serving on their own, on other days besides Second Saturday. For example, some people have returned to the Habitat House to help on other Saturdays. Other people have stayed at sites to work all day on their own, or gone back on a different day. • Lanette Celoni, a relative newcomer to Asbury, has gotten plugged into Second Saturday big time. She was looking for a place to serve and now is invaluable. She is a great example of someone who didn’t know where to help, looked at Second Saturday, tried it, and became hooked. What a wonderful story of the power of this ministry and of what one person can do when they just offer themselves in service for God’s glory. • One of the most wonderful aspects of Second Saturday is seeing families serving together. Watching kids experience the joy of serving alongside their parents is priceless. Creating a generation of servants could change the world. That is a hope of everyone involved in Second Saturday.
JOINING
THE TEAM YOUNG ADULTS FIND SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT IN WEEKLY GROUP By Rachel Read
THE TRANSITION
From college to moving back home to attend graduate school was an experience that was much more difficult than I had anticipated. I kept asking myself, “Why did someone not warn me about how hard this transition would be?” I thought maybe everyone else who had ever graduated from college was just ready for the real world, but the more of my fellow graduates I talked to, the more I understood that we were all facing the same challenges. My experience at Oklahoma State University was incredible, consisting of a very tight community. It filled with people very passionate for the Lord. Throughout college I was constantly spurred on to seek the Lord by my friends around me. My girlfriends met once a week to pray with each other and to study the Bible together. I never had to face any challenge alone; well, maybe a test here or there, but you understand what I’m saying. My community in college was very rare, and was full of countless fun memories. We had many nights sitting around a campfire making s’mores, cooking breakfast for dinner, having sporadic dance parties, or just sitting around enjoying each other’s presence.
I was blessed with friends who were so incredible that only God could have put us together. I had the ideal college experience. After graduating from college, most of my community from OSU ended up all over the country. From Washington D.C. to Iowa to Arkansas to Africa, to me in Tulsa, God sent us all in different directions. I knew ahead of time that I would be nostalgic for the community I had, but I did not know quite how hard this would be. Being back at Asbury last fall was a huge blessing. It was incredible to be back in the congregation that I had grown up with, and to reconnect with people who I had been away from for years. Unfortunately, I just was not receiving the fellowship that I had grown accustomed to receiving. I was missing the deep relationships and encouragement that I had been receiving for four years. During this time I began graduate school at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa, and was not Page 18
“It has been really neat to see different members of our Community teach on different subjects in the Bible, and to see how the Holy Spirit uses each different member to teach the other members. “ finding any type of Christian fellowship there either. I was surrounded by very few believers, and was in desperate need of people to encourage me in being a witness in situations I had never been put in before. I had found other people at Asbury, whom I have been friends with for years, who were craving the same type of community.We decided that we needed to put a new young adults community into place at Asbury. We started meeting in October to pray together, and to talk about what this new community would look like. We decided we wanted a group to meet weekly to discuss scripture, pray together, have fun discussions, and ultimately form a community of young adults who were experiencing the same life transitions. The first “Team” meeting began back in January with a group of about 20 people who were all craving some sort of community and fellowship with other believers. “The Team” consists of young adults who are in the twenties to thirties age range, and the group has around 30 members. We meet on Wednesday nights at 7:30 in the north lobby of Venue68. Over the past eight months, we have experimented with many different teachings. In the spring we had weekly discussions over the scripture used in the sermon, then moved on to study the book of Philippians. Many times we will take time at the end of Wednesday nights to pray for each other, and will sometimes pray for different countries around the world. Throughout this past summer we have had different members of “The Team” lead the group each week, but we have made sure to have a BBQ and a Sno Cone night here and there. It has been really neat to see different members of our community teach on different subjects in the Bible, and to see how the Holy Spirit uses each different member to teach the other members. God has gifted many people in our community with the ability to teach.We enjoy digging deep into God’s Word and hearing about what is going on the lives of each member of our community. “The Team” has been such a blessing for me over the past eight months and has given me an opportunity to make new friends at Asbury, while receiving the fellowship I had been missing. We love seeing new faces and would welcome you for a Wednesday night!
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All About th
SERV
I am certain you have heard the saying: If you have a good customer service exBy Rob Sher
perience somewhere, then you are likely to recommend that place by telling one or two people. However, if you have a poor customer service experience, you will tell seven to ten people. Then those seven to ten folks will each tell five additional people. As a result, 40 to 50 people hear about that one bad experience, a big difference when compared to the one or two that heard about the good experience. Obviously, customer service is important. For some, volunteering is seen as an obligation. For others, it is a way for the volunteerer or volunteeree, (either way, it’s the person doing the volunteering) to feel needed. Still others use the volunteer time as a soapbox to communicate some sort of agenda. There are even those that may use volunteering as a distraction from something in their own lives. Admittedly, some may genuinely have a servant’s heart when they volunteer, but for most, I expect the norm is that they are operating out of guilt.
I submit to you a different idea regarding this notion of volunteerism. What if you were to consider volunteering not as a commitment of your time, but rather, defined it as a commitment of your heart? To approach the idea in this manner really turns the whole notion behind volunteering up on its head. Think about it….
For most, we wait for a “Volunteers Needed” campaign before we even think twice about the giving of our time to someone other than our family or our work. In fact, during the campaign itself we likely consider the notion for a mere two to three seconds before quickly beginning to explain (or justify) why we cannot help this time around. We say to ourselves, “I would love to but...” and the excuses come one after another. As a result, we are left to not think again about that nasty “V” word until the next time some preacher or lay leader starts a new campaign some several months later. But what if we scratched the whole “V” word altogether and instead spoke about “serving.”? What if instead of volunteering for an institution, enterprise, Page 20
he
VICE or organization, we were instead focused on serving our Creator?
Under this new approach the time we invested wouldn’t be so much about the commitment of “our time,” but rather it would be about the commitment of “our hearts” to the Father in Heaven.
In my own experience here at Asbury, I sought out different ways to serve for a couple of years. After what felt like roadblock after roadblock in the Chapel Service, and then again in the Venue, I discovered an opportunity to serve within my community. Under this new “service” centered approach, the focus was not placed on “my time”, or where I wanted to “volunteer”. Instead the focus was on the reality that I was feeling called by God to serve in His Church. At the time, the specific role or time slot was still unknown. In fact, I was not even given a clear path as to what capacity I would serve; but knowing for certain that I was being called to serve, I continued to look for the right opportunity. Ultimately, after my leadership commitment was Page 21
completed in my community (some two years later), I found an opportunity to help run sound at the VenuePM worship service. And along the way I have continued to have one opportunity after another present itself. From Men’s Prayer Breakfast, Men’s Fall Retreat, Car Care Ministry, committees, and more, I serve not because I have time to do so, but because I feel called to do so. I would challenge all members of our church to seek out their opportunities (yes, plural) to serve. There is not a need to wait for the next “Volunteer Campaign.” You don’t have to know exactly what your gifts or talents are; in fact, you may discover or learn new ones. As important as serving customers is, it fades in comparison to the service we may choose to bring to Our Father. Here at Asbury we are blessed with an active church that is full of opportunities. Whether you choose to serve in the church, in the community, or even abroad, there is a place for you. I hope you will join with the many others in our church family that choose to serve God. It is through this commitment of service that lives are being changed.
WELCOME
to Roadmap, our guide along the journey of Christian growth and education. We are pleased to offer a variety of biblically based classes for adults of all ages. Register for RoadMap classes by calling the Registration Hotline at 392-1191. To insure that you will have materials by the first class session, call at least 2 weeks prior to class start date. After that, registrations will be accepted up to the start of the class, but no guarantees will be made concerning your materials. Childcare will be provided unless otherwise noted. There will be a special registration sign-up and book purchase opportunity on Sunday, August 22 in the Main Building West Foyer and Sunday, August 29 in the Venue 68 North Lobby before and after church and between services.This will be a chance for you to meet the instructors, ask questions, purchase and pick up your book(s).
BIBLICAL STUDIES
THE TRUTH PROJECT - 13 SESSIONS Wednesdays, September 8 – December 1 1:30-3:30 p.m. Room 1335 Instructor: Dewey Sherbon Cost: None No childcare In a recent study, the Barna Research Group revealed the stunning statistic that only 9 percent of professing Christians have a biblical worldview.To counter this slide within the body of Christ, Focus on the Family launched The Truth Project, “one of the most ambitious and powerful projects in the history of our ministry.” The Truth Project is a DVD-based small group curriculum comprised of 12 one-hour lessons taught by Dr. Del Tackett. Each lesson discusses in great detail the relevance and importance of living the Christian worldview in daily life. COLOSSIANS - EVERY BELIEVER COMPLETE IN CHRIST - 10 SESSIONS Tuesdays, September 7 – November 9 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Room 2821 Instructor: Gail Knox Cost: $15
In Paul’s letter to the church at Colossae, he warns against being deluded with man-made philosophies and traditions that contradict the Word of God. How to prevent it? By acquiring the true knowledge of Christ through the study of His word. This Easy-to-Learn Inductive Bible study from Word Within International takes you there step-by-step through the book of Colossians. Involves 1-2 hours of outside work each week. Workbook provided. SCRIPTURE MEMORY - 6 SESSIONS Thursdays, September 9 – October 14 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Room 2820 Instructor: Eldon Trimble & Emsy Clark Cost: $10 This 6-week course is designed to teach, encourage, and promote the memorization of God’s Word. Learn what the Bible says about memorizing God’s Word as we examine the different learning styles, memory theories, and processes. Discover application opportunities in the Word of God as we learn and memorize Scripture together. Our prayer is that Scripture memory accountability groups will form as a result of this course. DISCIPLE I – PART I 17 SESSIONS (first half of a 2-semester course) Class A: Tuesdays, August 10- December 14 (will not meet Oct. 19 or Nov. 23) OR Class B: Thursdays, August 12 – December 16 (will not meet Oct. 21 or Nov. 25) 6:30-8:30 p.m. Room 2818 Instructor: Dr.Vaughn Story Cost: $38 (materials supplied for both semesters) These two concurrent 34-week courses are for adults wanting to study the whole Bible in order to learn what it means to be a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. No previous Bible knowledge required. Second half of the course continues in the Winter 2011 RoadMap semester, beginning in January.Those interested in participating in either Class A or Class B must attend only one 6:30 – 7:30 pm Orientation in the CLC to register. Orientation schedule:Tuesdays, July 27 or August 3, or Thursdays, July 29 or August 5. Page 22
BETH MOORE BIBLE STUDIES REVELATION: HERE & NOW,THERE & THEN (2 TIME CHOICES) - 11 SESSIONS Morning class: Tuesdays, September 14 – November 23 9:15 – 11:15 a.m. Room 2818 Instructor: Cindy Read OR Evening class: Tuesdays, September 7 – November 16 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Room 2820 Instructor: Dee Dee Geddie Cost: $12
This walk through all 22 chapters of the book of The Revelation is the latest of Beth Moore’s Bible studies. It is formatted a little differently than her other,with slightly longer video time, but shorter homework demands. Its purpose is to increase worship, anticipation, and fear of God in willing hearts and to light a fire in our spirits to study Revelation in greater depth. This challenges you to do some digging on your own, and to journal what you discover! DANIEL: LIVES OF INTEGRITY, WORDS OF PROPHECY - 12 SESSIONS Tuesdays, September 7 – November 23 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. Room 1504 Instructor: Susanne Johnson Cost: $18 Just as the prophet Daniel faced unbelievable pressure to compromise his faith in a hostile culture and was constantly confronted by temptations and threats, today’s believers face similar trials. This unique 12-session study falls in two parts. The first portion, from Daniel chapters 1-6, Daniel models how to develop enduring integrity in an enticing world as he faced the kind of pressures and temptations Christians encounter today.. The second portion, chapters 7-12, explores thrilling prophecies from the time of Daniel through the second coming of Christ.
PRECEPT UPON PRECEPT BIBLE STUDIES
I SAMUEL: GOD’S SEARCH FOR A MAN AFTER HIS OWN HEART (2 TIME CHOICES) - 9 SESSIONS Tuesday morning class September 14 – November 9 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Room 2821 Instructor: Nancy Baxter OR Wednesday evening class September 8 – November 17 (will not meet October 20) 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Room 2820 Instructor: Dee Paige Cost: $22
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From judges to kings, from the departure of God’s glory to the assurance of His help, from inquiring of the Lord to inquiring of a medium -- this book of contrasts sets before us the importance of a life of obedience and how it is lived out in the midst of interpersonal conflicts. JEREMIAH PART I - 10 SESSIONS Tuesdays, September 7 – November 9 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Room 2820 Instructor: Nancy Staab Cost: $23 Jeremiah, a prophet appointed by God, spoke a hard message to the people of his day. It is still God’s message today - a call to listen to His Word. Heeding Jeremiah’s message can bring healing and hope to all. This study of the first half of the book of Jeremiah, subtitled You’ve Forsaken Me: Repent and Return, covers Chapters 1 - 24.
DOCTRINE AND THEOLOGY UNDERSTANDING UNITED METHODIST SACRAMENTS - 4 SESSIONS Wednesdays, September 8 – 29 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Room 1335 Instructor: Rev. Tiffany Smith Cost: None
How much do you know about the sacraments of baptism and communion? Ever wondered why all the denominational differences? Come find out with pastor Tiffany as she spends the first two weeks examining the rhyme and reasons behind the different interpretations of baptism and the last two weeks on communion. Emphasis will be given to the United Methodist interpretation, with lots of time for discussion and questions.
CHRISTIAN LIVING
FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY - 13 WEEKS Wednesdays, August 18 – November 17 (will not meet October 20) Facilitator: Rick Boothe OR Sundays, August 22 – November 21 (will not meet October 24) Facilitator: Ron Carter 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Room 2818 Cost: $93 for kit, one kit needed per couple No childcare available for Sunday class This program is not a quick fix for financial worries. It is a 13 week program which requires real commitment. By teaching you money management basics, FPU can give you hope and provide a solid plan to walk you from the financial bondage of debt into true Financial Peace.Attend one of four free orientations from 6-7 p.m. in room 2818 on either Wednesday nights August 4 or 11, or Sunday nights August 8 or 15 for an overview of FPU course material and to decide if you are ready to change your family tree
MARRIAGE & FAMILY
EXTREME MARRIAGE - 4 SESSIONS Wednesdays, September 22 – October 13 6:00-8:00 p.m. Room 1504 Facilitators: Pat & Deborah Calhoun Cost: None Have you ever considered comparing marriage to skydiving, rock climbing, shark dives or any other extreme sport? Frankly, there are many similarities! If one doesn’t prepare adequately for any of these activities, failure can be…well, painful. Come learn how extreme sports provide practical applications for a successful marriage. DYNAMIC MARRIAGE - 9 SESSIONS Wednesdays, September 15 – November 17 (will not meet October 20) 6:00-8:30 p.m. OR Thursdays, September 9 – November 1 (will not meet October 21) 6:30-9:00 p.m. Room 2201 Facilitators: Nationally Certified Facilitators Cost: $130/couple (many materials included, scholarships available) $50 deposit holds your spot Give us 9 weeks…we’ll give you a dynamic marriage! This is an interactive class that will help you replace old habits with new ones in a unique, safe environment. Go from good to great, mediocre to magnificent or hurt to healed. To register, contact Jackie or Ron at 251-6665 or asburydynamicmarriage@windstream.net. Limited to first 12 paid couples in each class. PARENTING YOUR TEENAGER by Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott - 6 SESSIONS Tuesdays, October 12 – November 16 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Room 1504 Facilitators: Betty Higgins and Maribeth Blunt Cost: $10 Parenting Your Teenager is a six week course designed to help you better understand and communicate with your teenager. You will be given tools to help your teen find their identity, empathize with their jumbled emotions, and deal with spiritual questions and doubt. You will be given advice on how to deal with scary issues like rebellion, drugs and sex. There is a parent workbook and four 20 minute videos. The class will be interactive and informative, with plenty of time for questions. SUNDAY MORNING PARENTING CLASSES ARE AVAILABLE Every 4th Sunday in August – October 2 choices: 9:15-10:30 a.m. or 11:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Venue Breakaway area topics vary each month, and cover relevant subjects like Understanding the Teen Brain, Money Matters for Teens, Establishing Boundaries, Helping Your Kids Stay Safe on the Internet, and others. Speakers include Maribeth Blunt, a licensed professional counselor, Betty Higgins, and experts in the specific topic. The topics this fall are:
August 22 - “Understanding Youth Culture” September 26 - “Boundaries for Teens” October 24 - “Understanding the Teen Brain”. For more information contact Marsha Baker at mbaker@asburytulsa.org
CARE
OUCH GOD! THAT HURTS! - 1 SESSION Thursday, September 16 7:00-9:00 p.m. Room 1502. Cost: None We all know “God is good,” yet there are often times when circumstances conspire to convince us otherwise and we wonder what’s really going on? Join Catherine Zoller, a well-known Christian speaker, for an evening of wit, wisdom and insight. She will leave you laughing while broadening your perspective, challening your thinking, and perhaps providing some answers. GRIEFSHARE - 13 SESSIONS Wednesdays, September 8 – December 8 (will not meet November 24) 6:00-8:00 p.m. Room 2314 Facilitator: Janie Hedrick Cost: $13 GriefShare is a special weekly video series and support group for people who are grieving the death of someone close to them. It’s a safe place to be around people who understand what you are feeling.At GriefShare, you’ll learn valuable information about recovering from your grief and renewing your hope for the future. Group sessions are offered three times per year. You may begin attending this group at any time...each video session is “self-contained.” PREPARING FOR THE HOLIDAYS GRIEF WORKSHOP - 1 SESSION Saturday, November 6 10 a.m. - 12 noon Parlor Facilitator: Carl Novinger Cost: None Childcare not available Experiencing grief can be especially painful during the holidays. Let’s spend some time together. We’ll have materials for you to take home and share ideas about the best way to spend the holidays during those particularly challenging times of life following a loss.
COME ANYTIME STUDIES
These studies may continue beyond the semester parameters and may be joined at any time. MOTHERS’ FELLOWSHIP Tuesdays 9:45-11:15 a.m. September 7 – December 14 Parlor (1900) Instructor: Katie Ruley Cost: $14 Page 24
Dear working mom, stay-at-home mom, single mom, married mom, mothers without, and mothers with everything: God sees you. He knows you. He loves you. You are His hands of love, His arms of compassion, and His gift of grace to the next generation. Take this journey and learn how to weave the thread of blessing, string of demands, and strands of frustration. In the merciful hands of our Father, they become the beautiful tapestry of motherhood. This course is for mothers of all stages and all ages. It is a time set aside to nurture your soul. This semester we will study the book Tender Mercy for a Mother’s Soul by Angela Thomas.
Asbury Exploration is a time to meet the Asbury pastors. It is a time of food, fellowship, and presentations. A brief history of Methodism is presented, as well as a short history of Asbury United Methodist Church and a review of where we are headed. Much of what Asbury has to offer and what is expected of members is discussed, and the process of how to join Asbury. Written information on all the above topics is provided to each family. Please call for reservations at 392-1191. If you have questions about membership with Asbury, please call Don Hubbs at 492-1771 x1104.
BELIEVERS BIBLE STUDY Wednesdays 6:00-7:30 p.m. Room: 1508 Year-round, with a slight break during August Instructor: Don Herrold Study of the book of Daniel
Wednesdays September 8 – November 17 (except October 20) Community Life Center 5:00 – 6:00 pm Cost: Adults $5.00 Children (2-12) $3.00 Maximum $20 per family
WOMEN OF THE WORD Wednesdays 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Room 2319 Ongoing, year-round Instructor: Darlene Johnson, Pastor to Women No childcare Open Bible study focusing on the practical application of the Scripture sermon series. BREATHE ~ TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND RE-FOCUS ON THE LORD! A Women’s Group for women of all ages and stages Wednesday evenings,*6:00-8:00 p.m. Room 1502 September 8 – November 17 (will not meet October 20) MEN’S BIBLE STUDY LOOKING IN THE MIRROR - FINDING YOUR STORY IN GOD’S STORY Wednesday evenings,*6:00-8:00 p.m. Room 2821 September 8 – November 17 (will not meet October 20) Facilitator: Brad Tuggle Cost: None The Bible isn’t just a summary of facts and do’s and don’ts – it’s a collection of stories that ring true today because these are our stories. Jonah’s anger, Elijah’s fear, Jacob’s pride…to open the Bible is to see our own reflection. Join us as we see the men of the Bible live out our story, and marvel at God’s ability to redeem us all. (*Class time will actually run around 6:10-7:45,due to dropping off and picking up kids in childcare,children’s choirs and children’s activities. Please have children in choir by 6:00)
NEW MEMBERS
ASBURY EXPLORATION CLASS - 1 SESSION Choose a Sunday: September 12, October 3, November 7, or December 5 12:15 – 2:15 pm (after church) Community Life Center Presenters: Pastors and staff Childcare by reservation
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ASBURY FAMILY DINNERS
CHILDCARE
Childcare Available During Core Hours Children may be dropped off 15 minutes before parent’s Roadmap class begins. Monday & Tuesday mornings 9:00 a.m. – 12 noon Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. No childcare on these dates: September 6 (Labor Day) or October 20-22 (Fall Break)
WEDNESDAY NIGHT HAPPENINGS September 8 – November 17
(NOTE: All of these listed below will NOT occur on October 20 for Fall Break) Dinner in the CLC 5:00pm – 6:00pm Children’s Choirs (4 year olds – 6th grade) 6pm – 6:50 pm Children’s Programming WNL (Kindergarten – 5th grade) 7pm – 8pm 6th grade Preparing for Adolescence 7pm – 8pm Childcare (for children under 5 with parents in a Roadmap Class) 6pm – 9pm Childcare (for children with parents in a Roadmap Class) 8pm – 9pm
asbury
NEW ADDITIONS TO THE LIBRARY The Asbury Library is a wonderful resource.Thank you to all who continue to contribute books to our Library.
TOASTMASTERS Toastmasters is a learn-by-doing workshop in which participants hone their speaking and leadership skills in a friendly atmosphere. Members learn communication skills by performing a series of 10 self-paced speaking assignments designed to instill a basic foundation in public speaking. Members also learn leadership skills by taking on GENERAL INFORMATION BREAKFAST Served from 7:15-9:00 am in the CLC. various meeting roles. Every Monday that the church is open, Come enjoy fellowship with Asburians along with fresh 11:45 am – 12:45 pm, Room 2820 donuts, bagels, biscuits & gravy, sausage, eggs, fruit, and ACCESS cereal. $3 for adults & $1 for children 12 & under. HANDS OF LOVE SIGN CHOIR Sundays, 6:00-7:00 pm, Rm. 2821 SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP 8:00 am Mason Chapel FRIENDS IN CHRIST COMMUNITY (Traditional Communion) Sundays, 11:00 am, Rm. 1507 9:15 am Sanctuary (Contemporary) 9:15 am CLC (Open House Worship) BIBLE STUDY Check out the Fall 2010 RoadMap courses (Acoustic Worship, Casual Setting) in the new brochures located at Connection Corner and 11:00 am Sanctuary (Traditional) Welcome Centers, on the Asbury website at www.asburytul11:00 am Venue 68 (Modern with sign interpreter) sa.org. Accept Pastor Tom’s challenge to get actively involved in digging deeper into God’s Word ~ there is something for SUNDAY EVENING WORSHIP everyone! If you haven’t already enrolled in a class, be sure to 6:00 pm Venue68 (Modern) call the registration Hotline at 392-1191 A.S.A.P., as the Fall Sundays for Children and Students 2010 RoadMap session begins September 7! 6 Weeks - 4 Years 8:00, 9:15, and CARE AND SUPPORT 11:00 am RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE Sunday, September 12, K-6th Grades 9:15 or 11:00 am 8:00am – 1:00 pm in the Gym. Call 1-800-REDCROSS to 7th, 8th & 9th Grades 9:15 & 11:00 am schedule your appointment. 10th, 11th & 12th Grades 9:15 am only GRIEFSHARE GriefShare is a special weekly video series ADULT DISCIPLESHIP COMMUNITIES Adult and support group for people who are grieving the death of Bible study, belonging, and serving together - Sunday at someone close to them. It’s a safe place to be around people 8:00, 9:15, & 11:00 am, and options during the week – who understand what you are feeling. At GriefShare, you’ll Tuesdays at 6:00 pm, Wednesdays at 6 and 7:30 pm. learn valuable information about recovering from your grief and renewing your hope for the future. Group sessions are SURGERY OR HOSPITALIZATION offered three times per year. You may begin attending this SCHEDULED? Be sure to let Asbury know ahead of group at any time...each video session is “self-contained.” time by calling Pam at 392-4589 so your pastors can be in Wednesdays, September 8 – December 8, 6:00-8:00 pm, prayer for you. When you enter the hospital, please des- Room 2314 (no meeting on 11/24). Cost: $13 for workbook. ignate Asbury as your church. The after-hours pastoral Call 392-1191 to register. Childcare available. emergency line can be reached by calling 492-1771, selecting option 6, and leaving a message for the pastor on call. OUCH GOD! THAT HURTS! We all know “God is good” yet there are often times when circumstances conspire to ENGAGED COUPLES If you are planning to use an convince us otherwise and we wonder what’s really going on? Asbury pastor to officiate and/or use Asbury’s facilities, Join Catherine Zoller, a well-known Christian speaker, for an be sure to book ASAP to allow ample time for Couple- evening of wit, wisdom and insight. She will leave you laughto-Couple (required premarital sessions). ing while broadening your perspective and challenging your thinking and just maybe providing some answers. Sponsored THE GAZEBO IS OPEN CDs of Tom’s message of by Stephen Ministry. Thursday, September 16, 7:00-9:00 pm, the day are available immediately following the worship room 1502. No cost. Childcare available. service - $3. Prayer Journals are also available for $5 each. S.M.I.L.E. (SINGLE MOTHERS IN THE LORD’S EMRECYCLING Recycle unwanted paper products.Three BRACE) A new ministry that seeks to strengthen, empower, bins are available, located in the south and east parking and support single moms while providing emotional and spirlots. itual encouragement; a place to belong, be loved, and accepted; allowing ‘me’ time with free childcare. An opportunity ASBURY FAMILY NEWS is available at the Welcome for single moms to walk with others through this challenging Centers. It includes births, deaths, marriages, baptisms journey knowing they are not alone. Meets third Thursdays, and military listings. 6:00-8:45 pm in the Parlor. For more information, contact Mary-Margaret at 808-0981 or Kellie at kaustin10@cox.net. DOORS OF ASBURY POSTERS are at the Wel- Childcare and free time included! come Centers...FREE! Suitable for framing.
opportunities
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HEALING HATS MINISTRY A new Asbury ministry created to provide hats to cancer patients who have lost their hair. Home spun with knots of love, woven together with help from above! Simply knit, crochet or sew a hat of your choice and drop it in the collection box located next to the Gazebo. Find more information in the literature rack attached to the collection box. Contact Sue at 455-2816 or HealingHatsMin@aol.com for more information. RÉSUMÉ ASSISTANCE AND REVIEW Do you have an effective résumé? An extra set of eyes can make a difference. E-mail your résumé to employ.transitions@ yahoo.com. OJT (OVERCOMING JOB TRANSITIONS) The unemployed are not lepers, but sometimes it feels that way. How can YOU help people you know dealing with job issues? INVITE THEM TO OJT! We offer encouragement, prayer support and hands-on workshops helping with résumés, networking, interviewing, the internet and more. WE NEED MORE JOB CANDIDATES! You know someone who needs this! Meets the third Tuesday of each month, 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm, Family Room. Questions? Contact Russ Knight at OJTjobs@gmail.com or call Ruth at 392-1146. PRAYER CARD SENDING TEAM Usually meets first and third Mondays at 9:30 am in Room 1508 to send cards with God’s encouraging words and our prayers to those who are ill or going through hard times. Cards and care packages are also sent to Asbury-related military personnel. Contact Gwen Mohler at 258-5479 or GRMOHLER@aol.com for more information, or call Ruth at 392-1146. ASPERGER SUPPORT GROUP First Thursday from 7:00-9:00 pm in Rm 1506. For mothers of children with Asperger Syndrome. Childcare available.
GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN First and third Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 pm, Rm 1506. MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES For family members or caregivers of people affected by a mental illness. 4th Thursdays from 1:30 - 3:00 pm in Rm 1507. MILITARY CONNECTION Please join us in praying for our troops in harm’s way and their families. Periodic care packages and monthly encouragement cards with God’s Word are sent to Asbury-related military personnel. The Prayer Ministry also covers them in prayer. Please call Jo VanDeWiele at 459-0888 with complete name and address or send to Gwen at grmohler@aol.com. ASBURY BEAR BAGS Asbury Bear Bags with coloring books have comforted young children for many years, but now you may give a Bear Bag with a scripture-based journal included instead! Great for teens and adults. Anyone may deliver an Asbury Bear to someone who is grieving. For more information, contact Beth at beth.bears@yahoo.com. VISITS TO ASBURY MEMBERS Asbury has a group of volunteers (Asbury Connection) who regularly visit people who are homebound, in nursing homes or in assisted living facilities. If you are interested in being visited or doing visits, call Adrena at 392-1144, or contact the coordinator, Abby Sluice at 392-4583 or asluice@asburytulsa.org.
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: Sun 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Mon & Tue 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Tue, Wed, & Thur 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP Third Thursday, from 1:30-3:00 pm in Rm 1621. Christian hope, support and education for friends and fam- GOD & ME / GOD & FAMILY ily of those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia. SCOUTING AWARD God & Me is for boy & girl scouts in 2nd & 3rd Grade with a parent God & Family is for boy & CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Second Sunday of girl scouts in 4th & 5th Grade with a parent each month, 4:00-6:00 pm, Parlor - Reflections on the 23rd Psalm & sharing for people with cancer and their Orientation Meeting families. Tuesday 8/17/10 from 6:30pm – 8:30pm DIVORCE RECOVERY Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1335 - For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma. Childcare available.
Final Paperwork Due Meeting Tuesday 9/28/10 at 6:30pm Awards Ceremony Tuesday 10/5/10 at 6:30 in the Chapel
DIVORCE REBUILDING Thursdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1335 - For those ready to rebuild their lives after Cost $30 separation or divorce. Childcare available. We are excited to offer these two programs for Boy and Girl EATING DISORDER RECOVERY First and third Scouts or Campfire and their mentor (i.e. parent, grandparent, Wednesdays, 12:00-1:30 pm, Room 1621 - For individuals etc.) that fulfill requirements for the “God and Me” and “God seeking support in the recovery process. Bring sack lunch. and Family” awards. Both programs will have a mandatory parent and scout orientation meeting. We will provide the materials so that each week the mentor and scouts may work at home to complete the course. At the final meeting on 9/28 Page 27
we will review your workbooks and submit for your award to be presented at a final award ceremony. The $30 cost includes their workbook, a certificate, all program supplies, and their award medallion. For more information contact Kim Broadhurst at 392-1165 or kbroadhurst@asburytulsa.org. UPWARD BASKETBALL & CHEERLEADING Registration Begins September 1st 5 years old by 9/1/10 thru 6th Grade in the 2010-2011 school year Upward promotes character and self-esteem in every child by providing: Equal playing time • One-hour practice and game eachweek with devotions • An evaluation process to provide equal opportunity for improvement • Each player signs up as an individual, not as a group or team • Separate leagues for boys and girls All participants MUST attend one evaluation on October 28, 29, or 30. Practices will be one night a week on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday with games on Friday or Saturday. Practices begin December 6th and games begin January 7th. We will finish the season with an Awards Program on Sunday, February 27th. Parents are needed to be coaches and referees. Registration and volunteer forms will be available in children’s ministry and also online at www.asburytulsa.org/ministries/children. The cost for basketball is $75 if you register on or before Sunday, October 17th. Any forms received or postmarked after that date will be charged $85 and placed on availability of team space. The cost for cheerleading is $65 with an option $12 for a mock turtleneck. For more information or if you have questions, contact Kim Broadhurst at kbroadhurst@asburytulsa.org or at 392-1165.
Kim B. at 392-1165, or 3rd – 5th grade-Jennifer at 392-4582. THIRD GRADE BIBLE PRESENTATION Sunday, September 26, all services. On this very special and significant Sunday, all children entering the 3rd grade will each receive their very own copy of the Word of God!! This annual event is a great stepping stone of immense significance. The presentation will take place during all of the worship services. The third graders and their parents will come forward and line the altar rail for the Bible presentations. You are then invited to attend a reception in their honor in the café on the North side outside the family room at either at 10:30 or 12:00. More information will be sent to third grade families as the date draws nearer. Call Amber Cox, 392-1171 or acox@asburytulsa.org for more information. BIBLE EXPLORERS September 26 – October 10, 3:30 – 5:00 pm, Family Room. In this class you will learn how the Bible is written; discover how it is organized and see how to use it. It is designed for the 3rd grader and an adult (parent). We will meet in the Family Room from 3:30 to 5:00 pm for three Sunday afternoons. You may come whether or not you received a Bible September 26th. For more information contact Amber Cox, 392-1171 or acox@asburytulsa.org. SPIRIT 1.2 DOG DAYS Friday, October 1, 5 – 9pm. The first and second graders have gone to the dogs. We will start our evening with dinner. Then we will have games, crafts and a video to bark about our evening. Register by September 22nd to help us plan. For questions or more information contact Jennifer Barnes @ 392-4582 or email jbarnes@asburytulsa.org .
DISCIPLESHIP
DISCIPLESHIP COMMUNITIES If you have not yet found an Adult Discipleship Community check out “Get Involved” on our website, www.asburytulsa.org or pick up a brochure at one of our Welcome Centers. 20/30 Vision meets at 9:15 Sunday mornings in room 1507 for ages 20s30s.
ROOTED: A NEW community of young couples—some engaged, mostly married—who are seeking to know and PREPARING FOR ADOLESCENCE September love Jesus and share Him with the world. We also have lot 8 – November 17, 7-8pm. It’s better to prepare than of fun! Come join us! E-mail JOdom@asburytulsa.org for repair! “Preparing for Adolescence” is a course de- more information. 20s/Early 30s; 9:15 AM in room 2314 signed especially for our sixth graders. We will discuss THE TEAM: A NEW community of singles and couples the topics of inferiority, conformity, puberty, roman- who like to get together and talk about Jesus and what it tic love, and identity from a biblical perspective. Our looks like to follow Him. We’re mostly in our early to mid reference book is Preparing for Adolescence, by Dr. 20s and like doing lots of fun stuff together! Come hang out! James Dobson. Each week kids will have class discus- E-mail Rachel.Read@ou.edu for more information! For 20s/ sion & two nights of discussion at home with parents. Early 30s; 7.30-9:00 PM, Wednesday nights in the Venue 68 N The cost is $15 per student, for his/her own work- Lobby; Childcare provided book. Please call Kim Broadhurst at 392-1165, kbroadhurst@asburytulsa.org or Joanna Edwards at 392-1166 ENDOWMENTS or jedwards@asburytulsa.org for more information. Leave a legacy that continues to give forever to a ministry you want to support. There are endowments that support WEDNESDAY NIGHT LIVE September 8 – Novem- many areas of Asbury’s outreach including children, youth, ber 17, 7-8pm, in the Chapel. Join us on Wednesday nights music, missions, and training of pastors as well as a General for worship in the Chapel—Kid Style. We will combine endowment. You can easily impact a ministry thru your will music, high energy, verse memory and a Bible lesson in a or a current gift. Contact Dwight Yoder at 392-1113 or dyosetting that encourages kids to learn about worship. Our der@asburytulsa.org. lessons will tie right into what we are doing on Sunday mornings. Can’t wait to see you there! You may pick up a registration form in the Children’s Ministry area. For more information contact the age appropriate staff memPage 28 ber: Kindergarten- Amber at 392-1171, 1st & 2nd grade-
MARRIAGE & FAMILY
EXTREME MARRIAGE Have you ever considered comparing marriage to skydiving, rock climbing, shark dives or any other extreme sport? Frankly, there are many similarities! If one doesn’t prepare adequately for any of these activities, failure can be…well, painful. Come learn how extreme sports provide practical applications for a successful marriage. Four Wednesdays, September 22-October 13, 6:00-8:00 pm, room 1504. Call 392-1191 to register. No cost. Free childcare. DYNAMIC MARRIAGE Give us 9 weeks…we’ll give you a dynamic marriage! This is an interactive class that will help you replace old habits with new ones in a unique, safe environment. Go from good to great, mediocre to magnificent or hurt to healed. Wednesdays, 6:00-8:30 pm beginning September 15 or Thursdays, 6:30-9:00 pm beginning September 9. Cost: $130/couple (many materials included, scholarships available) $50 holds your spot. To register, contact Jackie or Ron at 251-6665 or sburydynamicmarriage@windstream.net. Limited to first 12 paid couples in each class. Childcare available. 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 sessions).
food and great fellowship. They take place at Village Inn (71st and Memorial), and are open to anyone 60 years and up. For more information, contact Bud at bdmathes@cox.net or Jim at rober@cox.net “LOOKING IN THE MIRROR” MEN’S BIBLE STUDY Wednesdays, September 8 – November 17, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. The Bible isn’t just a list of do’s and don’ts – it’s a collection of stories that sound familiar because they are our stories. To open the Bible is to see our own reflection. The class will be taught by Brad Tuggle, former teaching pastor at Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, TX. CAR CARE WORKDAY Saturday, September 11, 9:00 am – 12:00 noon, Outside Breakaway entrance, northeast side. Car Care Saturday is an every-other-month workday provided for Asbury’s widows and single moms, through our men’s ministry. While the ladies wait in the comfort of the café, volunteers check tires, belts, fluids, filters and batteries. They also vacuum and wash the vehicles, and then update owners on what’s running smoothly and what needs professional attention. This free service gives our men the opportunity to put their faith in to action through loving and serving those in need. If you would like to volunteer to help, contact Mike at mnalley16@cox.net. If you are in need of these services, just get your vehicle in line by 11:30! No reservations necessary!
HOME IMPROVEMENT WORK DAYS Saturday, October 16, meet in the CLC at 8:30-9:30 am for planning. The Home Improvement Ministry serves widows and single moms within the Asbury family. Our men’s ministry volunteers make themselves available every other month to help folks out with minor home repairs and/or home improveMEMBERSHIP ment projects. If you’d like to help, contact Michiel at michASBURY EXPLORATION Come to a lunch/class to iel0930@sbcglobal.net. If you are in need of help, just pick learn more about becoming a member of Asbury. Sunday, up a request form at the south welcome desk, or call your September 12, from 12:15-2:00 pm in Community Life request in to Pam Wallace (392-4589), at least ten days beCenter. Lunch provided and childcare is available for chil- fore the scheduled work day. A Home Improvement volundren six weeks through 6th grade.Call 392-1191 to register. teer will contact you, and make final arrangements to get the job(s) done! MILESTONE WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Email your upcoming Milestone Anniversary (5,10,15,20, etc.) to Carolyn Schutte at brucars2@cox.net or call her at 451-1559.
MEN
MEN’S PRAYER BREAKFAST – Wednesdays, 6:307:30 am in the CLC. Attention men of Asbury. Make plans to join us for a great time of meaningful worship, lifechanging prayer and an awesome big breakfast, all for just $3 per person. First-time guests are free. September 1 September 8 September 15 September 22 September 29
Don Herrold Todd Johnson Bill Johnson Mark Springer Dub Ambrose
MEN’S OPEN BASKETBALL Fridays, 11:30 am – 1:15 pm, Gym. Men! Make plans to join other Asbury guys and their friends each week as we get together for a little “round ball” and lots of fun! Come show us what you’ve got, and we’ll have a great time of exercise and fellowship. Invite your friends, and we’ll see you on the court! 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 are meeting every 2nd & 4th Friday at 11:15 a.m., for good Page 29
MEN’S FALL RIO BRAVO/REYNOSA, MEXICO MISSION TRIP Join with other men of Asbury as we build casitas (small houses), and help local churches. No building experience or skills are required; just a willing spirit! All men ages 18 and up are invited to participate. This is a great trip for “first-timers,” but we have quite a few previous participants going as well. We anticipate a minimum of 30 men for this trip. We will be flying out of Tulsa on Wednesday, November 10 and return on Sunday, November 14. We will stay at the Volunteers in Missions headquarters, which are basically hotel rooms with four beds and one bath per room. The sign up deadline is Monday, September 27, and the cost is $550 per person for the first 50 men to register. (Receive a $50 discount if it’s your first trip to Rio Bravo!) $100 deposit holds your place, and the full balance is due on Monday, September 27. There may be incremental costs for additional airline tickets after the first 50 spots are taken. Scholarship/financial assistance is available on an as-needed basis. We don’t want finances to keep anyone from attending this trip!
This mission endeavor is a great way to serve others while showing the love of Jesus Christ. It is also a great way to get to know other men in our church and to come back with relationships that will last a lifetime. Please consider being a part of this great effort to provide decent housing for those in desperate need. You won’t regret a single moment of fellowship and ministry. Contact Frank at frank.field@williams.com, or Jim at jnlfurman@cox.net for more information!
MISSIONS/VIM
MISSIONS
Fall Cookson Hills, Oklahoma, Light Construction
difference and share Christ’s love in Tulsa! Join us this 2nd Saturday, September 11, at 8:30 a.m. at Venue68 and choose between local mission opportunities. At 8:45 we head to the ministry sites. Teams work from 9:00-11:30 a.m. and buses return toVenue68 no later than 12:15. Families with children welcomed and encouraged! Contact Betty Higgins at carevets@aol.com for more information.
October 16-23 Monterrey, Mexico, MBS & Construction
2ND SATURDAY Looking for an easy way to make a
SO YOU THINK YOU’VE GOT TALENT! The Tulsa District UMC is having a BIG party on Saturday, September 18 from 4:00-8:00pm at Faith United Methodist Church. You are invited to be part of the “So You Think You’ve Got Talent” competition and festival with Barbeque Cook-Off and Dessert Bake-Off. The festival is a “Friend Raiser” to increase awareness in the Tulsa District churches of the programs of the Circle of Care-Children’s Home, Boy’s Ranch, Pearl’s Hope, and Child S.H.A.R.E., Holsinger Home, Transitional and Independent Living programs. There will be entertainment for all ages! The festival is a carnival for the little kids, a hang out fun event with games for youth, a silent auction for mom, great food and games for dad, and great music for everyone! Tickets are $10 for adults and $2 for children 10 and under. Door prize tickets are also available. Mike Chaffin, District Superintendent, will be the Master of Ceremonies. Contact Susie Lemons at Susielemons@ aol.com or 855-2722 or Barbara Wright at blwright1@ yahoo.com or call 252-7710 with questions. The theme of the festival is “Celebrating All God’s Children”. OPERATION HOPE 9TH ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL This festival is an opportunity for all of us to be ‘Bridging the Gap between Prison & Community’ and providing Hope, Unity and Promise. Save the date for the fundraiser on Friday, October 8 from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm at Asbury UMC.The event is always exciting with lots of action going on in the ‘Live Auction’ and other activities. You will hear success stories of Operation Hope clients. LATIN AMERICAN MISSION CELEBRATION LUNCHEON Join us Sunday, October 17 at 12:15 pm in the CLC for a Latin American Celebration. Special guests will be Bishop Robert Hayes and Bishop Garcia from Monterrey. Food, folkloric dancers, and more! Hosted by Asbury’s Global Outreach Latin America Ministry Team.
VOLUNTEERS IN MISSION 2010 OPPORTUNITIES September 16-27 Tanzania, East Africa, Construction September 30-October 9 Central Asia, Relationship, Teaching & Light Construction
November 3-7
Monterrey, Mexico, Medical
VIM LEADER TRAINING September 18 Oklahoma City October 23 Oklahoma City Contact Marilene Long at 392-1164 or mlong@asburytulsa. org if you are interested in serving on any of these teams or being part of the VIM Leader Training.
MUSIC
CHANCEL CHOIR Wednesdays, 7:00 pm, Choir Room NEW COVENANT ORCHESTRA Wednesdays, 6:00-7:30 pm, Rm 1510
PRAYER
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 PrayerTeam 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 give Debbie in the Adult Ministries office a call at 392-1177 to reserve the Prayer Room for your group on a weekly or monthly basis. PRAYER ROOM DAYS & TIMES Our prayer rooms are accessible to you at these times: Mason Chapel & Venue68 Sundays from 7:00 am - 12:30 pm through the interior doors. Main Facility, Mason Chapel, & Venue68 Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Saturday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Sunday 12:30 pm - 9:00 pm
DONATIONS Continue to save those old eye glasses, travel size shampoo, soaps, lotion, etc! Drop them by the mission office to To obtain pass codes, call Debbie in the Adult Ministries ofbe used by our medical mission teams and local ministries. fice at 392-1177.
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RECOVERY
CELEBRATE RECOVERY Come join this supportive group of people each Monday night at 6:00 pm. 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. Hiding any hurts, habits or hang-ups? God never intended for you to live in bondage.
SENIOR ADULTS
VISITS TO ASBURY MEMBERS Asbury has a unique group of volunteers (Asbury Connection) who regularly visit people who are either homebound or in nursing homes. If you are interested in being visited, call Adrena at 392-1144, or contact the coordinator, Abby Sluice at ozyanks2000@yahoo.com SENIOR SIT AND FIT STRETCHING CLASS Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00-9:30 am in the Gym. 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. Come give it a try.
games until 3:00 p.m. Come join us for fun and fellowship!
SINGLES
DIVORCE RECOVERY Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1335 For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma. Childcare available. DIVORCE REBUILDING Thursdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1335 - For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce. Childcare available. SINGLES POTLUCK FELLOWSHIP Sunday, September 26, 12:15-1:30pm in the parlor. Come, bring your children and enjoy a delicious lunch, courtesy of your fellow singles! Just bring a “family-sized” food item, homemade or purchased! Great food, great fellowship, new friends … it just doesn’t get much better than that!
STUDENTS
789GRADE BREAKAWAY Sunday mornings, 9:15-10:30 am in the Breakaway Area. This isn’t your normal Sunday school. Come join us for worship, fun and games, interactive SENIOR WALK IN THE GYM WITH HIM Mondays, talk/lesson, and sometimes free candy and gift cards. Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:30-9:00 am in the gym. All senior adults are invited to join us for power walking, 789 BIBLE STUDY Wednesday night bible study is the coupled with lots of fun and fellowship. Come give it a try. place to be from 6:30-8:00pm beginning on September 8. Come to the Student Café and hang out, have fun and study SENIOR GAME TIME Every second Thursday – 1:00 what God’s words have for us. – 4:00 p.m. Attention Asbury Senior Adults! How would you like to get together on a regular basis with a won- 789 FALL RETREAT 789 Fall Retreat 2011 is here! We’re derful bunch of folks and play a few rounds of cards, headed to New Life Ranch Sept. 10-12th! It’s time to find out dominoes, or whatever board or card game you chose? what God really has in store for your life and how to really You KNOW you’d love it! If you’re a senior adult age 55 surrender! If you want a shirt and don’t want to pay the $5 and up, come check it out in Room 2820. Bring a friend late fee, your registration must be turned in by 9 pm Aug 29th! and stay for as long as you like! 7TH GRAD CONFIRMATION SIGN-UP ATTENTION SENIOR ADULT MEAL & MOVIE Attention all se- 7th Gradeeeerrrrs!!! Confirmation is learning about God and nior adults of Asbury! If you’re 55 years of age or over, the church, what it means to be a Christian, plus deciding for our monthly meal and movie day event may be just the yourself if want to become a member of Asbury. Confirmation “ticket” for you! We get together at a different Tulsa res- will start September 19 with a parent/ student meeting from taurant each month, and then head off to see a “first run” 3:30-4:30pm and then the first small group from 4:15-6pm.You movie. The dates and times vary according to the movie should receive a registration in the mail, it is due August 29. selected, but those who express an interest will be contacted a few days ahead of time so they can make plans 8TH GRADE PURITY SMALL GROUPS Sex is a hot accordingly. For more information or to sign up for the topic in the world,and as our students are growing they’re faced with making choices about sexual integrity every day. So the fall call list, contact Sally Wood, sally-wood@sbcglobal.net. semester the 8th grade small groups will be working through the Every Young Women’s/Men’s Battle books. Small groups TWEENAGERS PROGRAM & LUNCHEON Thursday, September 23, 10:30am – 1:00pm, CLC. We will be from 6:15-8pm!! Parents please plan on attending the hope you all had a great summer and are ready to rock parent meeting September 19, 6:15-8pm to learn your role. and roll into our fall Tweenager programs! We always have interesting programs and delicious lunches, pre- 101112 BREAKAWAY Every Wednesday night we come pared by our volunteer angels and church hostesses Vir- together for a time of connection and worship. Our deginia and Susan! Our September program will be pre- sire is to explore who God really is and how our lives matter to Him. We get started around 6:30 pm and wrap up sented by Mr. Ed Spann, on “Hymns of the Presidents”. around 8:30ish. Plan on hanging out afterwards for pizza. Call the main office at 492-1771 to make your reservations BY NOON, Monday, September 20. If, during that 101112 GRADE SMALL GROUPS Get Connected – Are week, you find you need to cancel, please also let us know you looking for a way to get more connected? Are you looking as we need to give an accurate count to the cooks. Should for a place to grow in your walk with Jesus? Then being a part you choose, you may make a donation for the meal when of a small group is where you need to be. If you are already you check in that morning. And don’t forget that some us in a small group, don’t forget to re-sign up for your group. stick around after the luncheon and enjoy card or board Our small groups meet every Sunday night, times vary. Some of the groups meet in homes and others meet at the church. Call Todd @ 392-1154 or Amy @ 392-1156 to get more info.
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FALL RETREAT 10,11,12TH GRADES: We’re headed out to New Life Ranch for fall retreat Sept. 17-19! It’s a chance to rest and discover your heart. It’s a chance to connect with God and have some serious fun with friends! The cost is $85. We will meet at the church Friday evening – eat dinner before you arrive. Registrations are due Sept. 8th. You can pick up registrations in the student ministries area. Call Todd @ 392-1154 or Amy @ 392-1156 for more info. 7TH-12TH GRADE METRO WORSHIP @ VENUE68 Come join youth from all over the city in a night to just worship Jesus. We meet the first Wednesday night of every month from 7 – 8:30ish. LIFE HURTS, GOD HEALS Life Hurts God Heals is created specifically for teenagers who have experienced some type of pain in their lives – divorce, bad break-ups, sexuality issues, disappointment, rejection, alcohol, problems with friends, etc. Groups start September 8th from 5-7pm every Wednesday night, contact us anytime or come by the Student Ministry area and sign up. Parents if this is something that grabs at your heat to help lead we need you, please call Marsha 392-1157!
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
GET PLUGGED IN! Volunteer opportunities have been updated and can be found at the information desks near the main entrances and Venue68. Updates are also posted on the website. There is a link in the left column on the home page.
WOMEN
WOMEN OF THE WORD Wednesdays from 10:00-11:00 am in Rm 2319, Rev. Darlene Johnson, teacher. CRAFTY LADIES FELLOWSHIP Mondays, 9:30 am 1:00 pm, Rm 2820. Ladies, if you enjoy doing crafts and fellowshipping at the same time, this activity is for you! We gather on Monday mornings to work on our own individual arts and crafts, stop for a delicious pot-luck lunch, and continue on through until 1:00 p.m. We have a wonderful time together, and would love to have you join us! For more information, contact Betty Seetin, and stop by some Monday and check us out! SEPTEMBER UMW LUNCHEON & PROGRAM Thursday, September 2, 11:30am – 1:00pm, CLC. Attention all ladies! This month’s luncheon will feature Emmy AwardWinning TV Broadcaster Cindy W. Morrison! Cindy successfully reinvented herself after corporate downsizing, leaving a 20-year news career. Since then she’s written a book, Girlfriends 2.0, hit the speaking circuit and created her own consulting business. She now instructs people on how to reboot and upgrade their lives. Come hear her speak on “Why You Need to Reboot and Upgrade Your Girlfriend Network NOW”! Bring your friends and $7 for a delicious catered lunch, and join us! No reservations are necessary.
need. If you would like to volunteer to help, contact Mike at mnalley16@cox.net. If you are in need of these services, just get your vehicle in line by 11:30! No reservations necessary! HOME IMPROVEMENT WORK DAYS Saturday, October 16. The Home Improvement Ministry serves widows and single moms within the Asbury family. Our men’s ministry volunteers make themselves available every other month to help folks out with minor home repairs and/or home improvement projects. If you’d like to help, contact Michiel at michiel0930@ sbcglobal.net. If you are in need of help, just pick up a request form at the south welcome desk, or call your request in to Pam Wallace (392-4589), at least ten days before the scheduled work day. A Home Improvement volunteer will contact you, and make final arrangements to get the job(s) done!
WORSHIP
8:00 AM COMMUNION SERVICE Mason Chapel. Traditional service with music led by Hart Morris. Communion is served and Dr. 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. Harrison preaches. 9:15 AM OPEN HOUSE WORSHIP Community Life Center. A relaxed atmosphere with engaging worship led by Dub Ambrose and team. Dr.Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast with an occasional live sermon from another pastor. 11:00 AM TRADITIONAL SERVICE Sanctuary. The Chancel Choir, the New Covenant Orchestra and various vocal and instrumental ensembles offer a variety of styles of music led by Hart Morris. Dr. Tom Harrison preaches. 11:00 AM MODERN SERVICE Venue 68. Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by Chris Cleveland and team. Sign interpreters for the deaf are offered. Dr.Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast. 6:00 PM MODERN SERVICE Venue68. Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by the Ben Kilgore and team. Rev. Spencer Smith preaches.
CAR CARE WORKDAY Saturday, September 11, 9:00 am – 12:00 noon, Outside Breakaway entrance, northeast side. Car Care Saturday is an every-other-month workday provided for Asbury’s widows and single moms, through our men’s ministry. While the ladies wait in the comfort of the café, volunteers check tires, belts, fluids, filters and batteries. They also vacuum and wash the vehicles, and then update owners on what’s running smoothly and what needs professional attention. This free service gives our men the opportunity to put their faith in to action through loving and serving those in Page 32
Marriages, Births & Deaths
ANNIVERSARIES
MARRIAGES:
• Robert Arthur West and Kathleen Hilti were married July 6, 2010. • Steve Eron Renard and Cindi Michelle Kramme were married July 10, 2010. • Dustin Craig Frye and Kayla Deanne Welch were married July 24, 2010.
BIRTHS:
• Solomon James Bunting, son of Nick & Julie Bunting, was born July 10, 2010. • Gregory Pace Segraves, son of Greg & Lisa Segraves, was born July 12, 2010.
50 Years Jim & Linda Pat Colgan 09/03/60
DEATHS:
• Glen Barnes, husband of Barbara, died May 26, 2010. • Charles (Chuck) Bailey, husband of Phyllis, died July 11, 2010. • William (Bill) Miller, husband of Monette and father of Mona Carouthers, died July 16, 2010. • Juanita Nash, mother of Gary (Peggie) Nash, died July 20, 2010. • Martha Lovell, died July 25, 2010. • Mildred (Mickey) Kline, died July 26, 2010.
60 Years Lou & Loraine Edmonson 09/16/50 Page 33
50 Years Jim & Ann Schulz 09/29/60
50 Years Perry & Yvonne Partney 09/16/60 45 YEARS John & Donna Miller 09/29/65 40 YEARS Roy & Alma Varner 09/25/70 Lenn & Kathy Szopinski 08/01/70 Don & Linda Allison 08/08/70 35 YEARS Gary & Suzanne Ruckgaber 09/03/75 Joe & Beverly Spence 06/20/75 30 YEARS Kevin & Denise Jeter 08/02/80 Rick & Lila Miller 08/30/80 25 YEARS Rick & Peggy Lisenbee 08/24/85 5 YEARS Bob & Angel Taylor 08/08/05
NEW MEMBERS
Shirley Brook
Pat Carter
Cathy Chalmers with Sarah & Carly
Madison Cumbey
Marie Flowers
Jake Horton
Dan Jackson
Marcie Raglin with Jayla & Jayden
Bill and Olivia Ruth
Christina Schlee
John and Nancy Slater
Jamie & Corbin Cooper
ASBURY EXPLORATION
Come to a lunch/class to learn more about becoming a member of Asbury. Sunday, September 12, October 3, or November 7 from 12:15-2:00 pm in Community Life Center. Lunch provided and childcare is available for children six weeks through 6th grade. Call 392-1191 to register. Page 34
Glorify God...Make Disciples Page 35
www.asburytulsa.org
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