THE OKLAHOMA UNITED METHODIST

Volume 3, Number 3 • February 13, 2015 www.okumc.org

8 new districts get names and superintendents Realignment update

By HOLLY McCRAY tourism in the state’s northeast. And District names and superintendents have been announced prairie grasses and numerous lakes sure- for the eight new regions that will reshape the Oklahoma ly shape the landscape in two districts. Conference map. Stretching in the state’s southwest, Among next steps are organizational meetings in April the Wichita Mountains bear the name and early May, for each of those eight districts, as Oklahoma of the Native people who reigned in United Methodists count down to June 1. That’s that region long ago. when the new structure becomes official. The Wichita and Affili- This list identifies those districts and the What is a missional ated Tribes government complex superintendents appointed by Bishop Robert strategist? Where is is near Anadarko. Hayes Jr. to lead them. God in this realignment The shape of Heartland District does significance to • Cimarron District – Charlie Graves work? Bishop Hayes Native Americans. In Tulsa, the Creek Council Tree resemble its moniker somewhat, and major • Council Oak District – Dan Peil and Superintendent Site is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. roadways meet in the appropriately named • Crossroads District – Rockford Johnson Greg Tener offer These new district names will represent all churches Crossroads District. • Green Country District – Emery Mason answers in a new well, the Cabinet agreed. Inclusivity was valued over districts • Heartland District – Greg Tener YouTube video, at The geography of the Cimarron Dis- defined by specific city names. • Lake Country District – Larry Bauman www.okumc.org. trict includes a similarly named river and A full-time District Administrator will be hired for each • Northern Prairie District – Tish Malloy the state’s highest point, Black Mesa, in new district. Job descriptions were being finalized as this • Wichitas District – Chris Tiger the county by that name. In the far western issue of Contact went to press. The Conference Treasurer’s The district names evoke our state’s geography and Na- Oklahoma Panhandle, that county is populated by 1.3 people Office will soon begin accepting applications for those posi- tive American influences. per square mile, according to the 2010 U.S. Census. tions, Treasurer Brian Bakeman said. The term “Green Country” long has been used to promote The Council Oak District includes a location of great See Districts, page 8

Bauman, Graves, Johnson, Malloy, Mason, Peil, Tener, Tiger, Lake Country Cimarron Crossroads Northern Prairie Green Country Council Oak Heartland Wichitas Pastor Education Fund reaches $3 million goal In amounts from $10 to $100,000, gifts have added up Three Bible passages illustrate his call to ministry, he said. diversified it,” Smith said. In 2013 he was assigned to pastor to $3 million to provide seminary scholarships for Oklahoma “I want to model” the love for God’s people and the a new worship service at the church, and “I realized this is United Methodist clergy. Church that Paul expressed in Philippians 1:3-11. “It’s a what God is leading me to be.” The Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation announced deep love that comes from God only, that I can’t make on Smith said the Foundation scholarship is a blessing for in January that the Oklahoma United Methodist Pastor Edu- my own,” Smith said. him and his family. “I take this honor with a deep sense of cation Fund achieved its financial goal. Acts 2:42-47 reminds him of the unique fellowship of responsibility and will continue to work diligently to repre- Through the generosity of individuals, families, and believers, which drew people to them and, ultimately, to God. sent the vision of the Foundation and the gifts of so many. ” churches across this Conference, scholarship recipients can And Smith signs email messages with his third selec- To obtain a Master of Divinity degree accredited by focus on their education and begin ministry careers unbur- tion: “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what The United Methodist Church, a candidate must complete dened by seminary debt. is ahead…” (Philippians 3). 80-90 hours of theological education in addition to the Jay Smith is the first Foundation Scholar. He attends What he calls his “Aldersgate moment” came when he undergraduate degree. The financial cost can discourage Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Ky., through its was a high school junior. “In all of my 17-year-old certainty,” potential seminary candidates or cause them to graduate Extended Learning Program. He is an associate pastor at he said, he planned a youth ministry career. And for more with substantial debt. Edmond-New Covenant UMC. than a decade, that was his field of work, at various churches. “This is a great day,” Robert Long said about the success “I am humbled by the generosity of so many that has When he began working at New Covenant Church, his of the endowment campaign. He chairs the Oklahoma United made seminary a reality for me today. It is an honor to be duties expanded. Methodist Foundation’s Board of Trustees and is senior pastor the first recipient,” said Rev. Smith. Conversation and opportunities “exploded my call and See $3 million, page 8 Page 2 The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact February 13, 2015

Check out DVDs about Lent Nominate young adults for new award Several DVDs on the topic of Lent are A brand-new award will honor a “Young Among other highlights will be hands- available for church groups to borrow at Adult of the Year” in the Conference. Briefly on mission opportunities alongside members no cost in The DVD Library at the United You are encouraged to nominate any Christmas Eve promotion grows of the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Confer- Methodist Ministry Center, 1501 N.W. Oklahoma United Methodist, between ages ence, and election of delegates for the 2016 24th, Oklahoma City. Contact Chris Schutz, 18 and 35, who is doing outstanding work in More churches participated in Home for General/Jurisdictional Conferences. [email protected] or 405-530-2075. the Church and helping grow God’s Kingdom. Christmas 2014, a project by the Disciple- Save the date • “The Passion Narratives,” by Pro- Find the application form at: https:// ship Ministry Team’s evangelism committee. fessor Emeritus James Efird of Duke okumc-reg.brtapp.com/YoungAdultAward. The promotion connected 217 churches for Jurisdictional Conference University Divinity School. The study Deadline is May 1 to submit a nomination. with potential new worshippers, the commit- The Great Plains Annual Conference compares the four Gospel accounts of This Young Adult award, given by the tee learned at its Jan. 15 meeting. will host the 2016 South Central Jurisdic- Jesus’ betrayal, death, and resurrection. Board of Laity, will be announced during In 2013, a total of 180 churches partici- tional Conference on July 13-16, 2016, in The kit consists of three DVDs, featur- Annual Conference in late May. pated, and 165 churches took part in 2012. Wichita, Kan. Theme will be “Rejoice in ing 18 sessions. Total playing time is “Most people in this age range are very Among social media, Facebook posts the Harvest.” about 5.5 hours. missional-minded,” said Aly Shahan, one of generated the highest interest by far this • “The Trial of Jesus,” a 50-minute the Board’s associate lay leaders. In her role, season, according to The Crouch Group’s Journaling workshop in Norman documentary from the History Channel. she particularly relates to young families and report to the committee. In Norman on Feb. 27 and 28, St. Ste- • “24 Hours That Changed the World,” young adults. Speaker, theme announced for phen’s UMC will host a journaling work- based on the book by Adam Hamilton, Besides recognition for one specific shop using the Progoff Intensive Journal® senior pastor of UM Church of the Res- young-adult disciple, Shahan hopes this 2015 Annual Conference program for self-development. urrection in greater Kansas City. Playing award will encourage members of every “On Fire To Serve,” based on Romans “Life Context: Gaining Perspective on time for the 10-part DVD: 76 minutes. church to identify, lift up, and give apprecia- 12:11-13, is theme for Oklahoma’s 2015 An- Life” will be led by Meredith Bell, a Texas • “Final Words From the Cross,” also tion to the young adults among them. nual Conference on May 25-28. hospital chaplain and pastor for women’s from Rev. Hamilton. He examines Applications may be submitted online Guest preacher will be Jorge Acevedo, ministry at White’s Chapel UMC, Southlake, Christ’s dying hours and final words or mailed to: First United Methodist Church, lead pastor of Grace UMC in southwest Texas. as seen and heard through the eyes and 201 W. Main, Moore, OK 73061, marked for Florida. Weekly attendance tops 2,700 for For more information: 405-321-4988 or ears of those who stood near the cross. attention by Aly Shahan. the multi-site church. www.ststephensnorman.org. Playing time is about an hour.

Youth Service Day Lecture series to feature Marilyn Brown Oden is March 7 All youth groups in the Oklahoma Award-winning author and friend to Conference are invited March 7 to a day many in Oklahoma, Marilyn Brown Oden of fellowship, games, service in the com- on March 5 will present the 2015 Martha munity, and worship on the OCU campus. Jean Lemon Special Lectures at Oklahoma Registration begins at 10 a.m., and the day City University. concludes at 5 p.m. She will make two presentations on the Reservations are required for planning topic “Dancing with THE WORD.” purposes. By Feb. 16, contact Michael Horn, • Her first address will be at 1 p.m. in the 817-219-7432 or [email protected], to sanctuary of the Bishop W. Angie Smith register. Chapel. A presentation at 2:30 will follow in the Watson Lounge of the Chapel. World Religions Expo • At 7 p.m., a panel will feature Oden set April 12 and two other speakers in the Great Hall of the Student Center. They will discuss “Cre- Learn about different religions as well ative Writing on Spiritual Themes.” Joining as faith distinctions among Christians by at- Oden will be OCU English professor and tending the World Religions Expo on campus poet Abigail Keegan; and Adam Shahan, an April 12. OCU alumnus, author, and associate pastor The Wimberly School of Religion Oden at Moore-First UMC. invites you to move among exhibits and shaped her perspective on the world: visiting About the lecture series, Oden wrote, Oden is the author of 11 books, which booths that afternoon in the lower level of the refugee centers in the war zones of Bosnia- “Dancing with THE WORD is not a dance of include “The Dead Saint” and “Crested Chapel. OCU students will be your guides to Herzegovina during the NATO bombing, and dogma but a dance of discovery. It is a dance Butte,” works of historical fiction; and explore branches of Judaism and Christian- participating in an ecumenical delegation’s devotional reflections in “Through the East of awareness of the sacredness of the present ity, as well as Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Window: Prayers and Promises for Living fact-finding trip to the Middle East. moment. Instead of spending the first part of and Native American religions. with Loss” and “Hospitality of the Heart.” She taught spiritual formation at Perkins life focusing on the future and the last part Individuals, youth groups, and local Her life is enriched through experiences School of Theology; served as a teacher, focusing on the past (and perhaps missing churches are invited to this open house of on six continents with diverse people — refu- counselor, and director of volunteers for the life instead of living it) — we are invited learning. gees, those who have physical challenges, Oklahoma City Public School District; and to dance daily to the music and mystery of No reservations are required. For more women in prison, prime ministers, royalty, taught creative writing at two universities. God’s Presence in the present.” information, contact Leslie Long at llong@ and presidents. She grew up in Oklahoma. She lives in Santa Fe, N.M., with her All events are free of charge and open okcu.edu, Lisa Wolfe at [email protected], She has said two encounters profoundly husband, retired Bishop William B. Oden. to the public. or call 405-208-5176.

Moving to a new address? Sign up for Contact Digest, Director of Communications: Joseph Harris Oklahoma United Methodist The Oklahoma United Methodist Call 405-530-2075 a free e-newsletter, at www.okumc.org. Editor: Holly McCray | The DVD Library: Chris Schutz Communications or send an email to Send news to [email protected]. Web Ministry/Graphics Design: Alicia Galyon [email protected]. Next publication date: March 6. Video Production: Nyla Wallin, Andrew Himes 1501 N.W. 24th The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact (USPS 954-500) is published every 3 weeks, 17 times a year, by the Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church-Dept. of Communications, Oklahoma City, OK 73106 1501 N.W. 24th St., Okla. City, OK 73106. Periodicals Postage Paid at Okla. City, OK. Postmaster: Send address changes to Contact, 1501 N.W. 24th St., Okla. City, OK 73106. February 13, 2015 The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact Page 3

Strength for the journey: A collection of ideas and thoughts from our bishop Risking all to pursue Christ “There was a man of the Pharisees she saw clearly the pattern of God’s actions • The 10 lepers in Luke 17:11 threw cau- you to persist in asking: Is this all there is to named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This and felt that Holy Presence in everything tion to the wind as they begged Jesus for help. life, or is there something more? man came to Jesus by night and said to him, around her. Grandma and other matriarchs of • In Mark 5:27, a woman who had suf- Yes, there is something more! The only ‘Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come her time owned an unshakable faith. fered from a flow of blood for 12 years place to find life in all its fullness is in Jesus! from God; for no one can do these signs that “Big Mama,” as we called her, had the broke a Jewish law that carried punishment Maybe pride has gotten in the way of you do unless God is with him.’ Nicodemus ability to laugh at life and herself. I was of death, so she could touch the hem of your deep need for Christ. Not until you con- said to him, ‘How can a man be born when fortunate enough to be in her presence for Jesus’ robe. fess the shame of conceding you’ve missed he is old?’” (John 3:1-2, 4, NKJV) 25 years, until her death, and her insightful • And the Samaritan woman at the well the mark will you be truly whole. By BISHOP ROBERT HAYES JR. teachings inspire me even today. at Sychar (John 4:5) went far beyond the In all those Bible stories, the people I remember most her personal proverbs, accepted norms of her day by engaging in y grandmother Marie Hayes was a could not find life in all its fullness until they filled with wisdom that only can be learned conversation with a Jewish stranger who brilliant woman. Born in the early were willing to do what they had never done. M with time. promised her living water. 1880s in Georgia What about you? One such saying was: Need knows no All these and many more came to Jesus and reared in Someone reading these words has a need shame! because of such a pressing need, a spiritual Mineola, Texas, to re-establish that personal relationship with As a young boy, I didn’t really know emptiness, a hunger they had to fill. No mat- she was the wife Christ that somehow has become lost in time. what that meant when she shared it with ter the cost, they were willing to risk it all! of a Methodist Someone else is thinking they’ve been down me, but I figured it out later. Grandma was Someone else wrote: In order to get minister and the this Lenten road so many times and nothing saying that, when a great need presses upon something you’ve never had, you have to mother of four has happened, so why believe something your life, you reach a point when that claim do something you’ve never done! girls and seven will happen now. boys. Like many causes you to drop all pretense and pride so As Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18, ushers in you can deal with the necessity. another Lenten season, I apply my grand- Nothing will happen until you step out- women of that era, side of that comfort zone. Until you move what she didn’t It’s the definitive place where you say, mother’s words and the New Testament away from the pride that has held you back. achieve in the “I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired.” stories in drawing up this article. They can Until you stop fearing what others might way of formal Long, long after I learned my grand- teach us much about ourselves. think. education was mother’s proverb, a startling find in my Each of us, like all those people who more than made Bible reading made her words even more sought out Jesus, reaches a tipping point — You can entrust yourself to the Lord of up for in the Bishop Hayes profound. Throughout the Gospels, I real- where the need to find meaning in life has life, the one who knows your needs and the classroom of life. ized, the people who came to Jesus almost become the claim that will not let go of us! desires of your heart. If you are sick and tired What my grandmother and other women always came out of needs so great that they On the surface, you think that you have of being sick and tired, do something you’ve of her generation possessed is defined as were willing to do whatever it took to find everything for success and happiness. Yet, never done — let go of shame so you can mother wit. It took the place of book-learning cures or remedy dire situations. something is missing. A spiritual void causes fulfill your greatest need. for them. • In the third chapter of John’s Gospel we Mother wit describes a common-sense find Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a leader of approach to living. My grandmother had a the Jews, going out under cover of darkness natural intelligence. She understood life as it and in jeopardy of his position, to ask Jesus YOU ARE INVITED! revealed itself through everyday experiences; a question that he could not answer. Friends of Children Banquet Passages Friday, April 17, 2015 UHLIG – Michele Johnson Uhlig, 48, During 1980-1993, he pastored at of Lexington died Feb. 2, 2015. She was Lawton-Wesley and Temple Churches. He 6:30 p.m. the wife of Rev. Ted Allen Uhlig, who is the retired from another annual conference. Please join us as we celebrate the mission, work, and impact pastor at Lexington UMC. Survivors include daughter Cindy Mar- of Oklahoma United Methodist Circle of Care. They married in Tulsa on April 12, 1997. tin and son Mike Marsh. Two Locations: An Oklahoma City University graduate, Service was Dec. 26 at Sunset Memorial Oklahoma City Tulsa she was an ordained minister with the Chris- Gardens, directed by Becker-Rabon Funeral Quail Creek Country Club Southern Hills Marriott tian Church (Disciples of Christ). Home. The presentation will be the same in both cities. Survivors include her husband, Ted; COCKE – Rev. Robert Winston Cocke children Blake and Rachel; and her mother, Using telecommunications technology, Circle of Care’s supporters Jr., 82, of Wilburton died Jan. 16, 2015. across the state will be united on this evening of celebration and Virginia Johnson. His ministry, from 1953 until retirement Service was Feb. 7 at OKC-Mayfair hope. The program will include testimonies from clients and 2014 in 1991, included Earlsboro, McLoud, El ministry highlights! Heights UMC, with burial in Memorial Park Reno-Ellison Avenue, Perkins, Wetumka, Cemetery, Bartlesville. Memorial gifts to: Texhoma, and Seminole/Bowlegs. He later Sponsorship opportunities: call 405-530-2081 Lexington UMC. pastored at Hodgen, Howe, and Rocky Point. • Statewide Sponsor • Table Sponsor PLOWMAN – Gertrude Eunice Survivors include his wife, Ann Cocke, $10,000 – Two tables (8 seats each) $1,000 – One table (8 seats) Name printed in both programs, Name printed in local program, and “Trudy” Williams Plowman, 85, of Tulsa and sons Robert, John, William, and Charles. Service was Jan. 21 at Jones Harkins program mention, and invitation to pre- program mention died Jan. 26, 2015. She was the wife of Rev. event reception Howard Lee Plowman, who retired in 1994. Funeral Home Chapel, Wilburton, with • Individual Dinner Reservation She loved serving alongside her clergy burial at the city cemetery. • Event Sponsor $50 per person husband during his long ministry career. $5,000 – One table (8 seats) Appointment Name printed in local program, program Survivors also include daughters Donde mention, and invitation to pre-event Plowman Ashmos and Sandra Plowman Matthew Hester, as Supply pastor, to reception Kraus and son Thomas Plowman. Sterling/Rush Springs, effective Feb. 1. Service was Jan. 28 at Tulsa-Boston Avenue UMC. Memorial gifts to: Oklahoma Birth Methodist Manor or Tulsa Metropolitan RSVP at: Kaden Mark Anderson was born Dec. Ministry. FOC.circleofcare.org 29, 2014. He is the son of Heather and or 405-530-2081 MARSH – Rev. Dr. James Ross Rev. Kyle Anderson, associate pastor at Marsh, 86, died Dec. 24, 2014, in Geronimo. Stillwater-First UMC. Page 4 The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact February 13, 2015 Tulsa church shows COMPassion By CHRIS SCHUTZ there’s some love being put into Tulsa-Boston Avenue is near- that food.” ing the first anniversary of the A typical dinner is “not some- church’s COMPassion meal pro- thing industrial,” Staat said. Meals gram, which provides meals for might include beef stew and bis- people who are homeless and cuits, ambrosia, fried chicken, egg differently abled — as well as rolls and fried rice. chances to worship and to become Small gifts called “table acquainted with the downtown agape” are set out for each guest. church’s members and staff. Prepared by church youth, these The “COMP” part of the name have included a small bag of treats stands for Community Outreach with a Bible verse and a whistle Ministry Partnership, said Associ- with which to “make a joyful ate Pastor Paul Staat. noise.” Loaves of surplus bread The church had noticed a “big donated by Panera are wrapped influx of people coming off the by volunteers for guests to take streets needing food and shelter with them. help, but also spiritual help,” Rev. The church wants to make the Staat said. dinners a welcoming experience Some people have mental for people who may dress, look, health issues, so the church part- or act differently. The combination nered with A Way Home for Tulsa, of meal and worship has been “an which works to find jobs, housing, Jonna Lawrence, left, and Courtney Carruth, new members of Tulsa-Boston Avenue, wrap transportation, and medication for entry point to the whole life of the surplus bread donated by a bakery to be given to COMPassion guests. them, Staat said. Boston Avenue church,” Staat said. UMC decided it might be able to Volunteers and guests dine is all that has kept them going,” 12 baptisms, 10 professions of faith, The COMPassion dinner is offer spiritual direction to them. together and visit during this Staat said. and two members transferred from held every other week. Getting The church sought “how we family-style evening meal. A short Gradually, some guests have another denomination. funding for the food has remained might best help the situation down- worship service and Communion become volunteers, and some have The meal is cooked and served a challenge, Staat said. town without being redundant in also are part of the event. joined the church, he said. by volunteers, who also provide “We’re learning as we go what we do,” Staat said. As they visit, “we learn from Boston Avenue’s membership transportation for the guests. along,” he said. “The guests and On March 24, 2014, the church our guests what it’s like living in is about 7,800. Among COMPas- Staat said Boston Avenue our congregation are really getting held the first COMPassion dinner. the situation that they do. Faith sion guests, the church has counted wants the guests to “feel like something spiritual out of this.” Ice Angels serve marginalized people in any weather By CHRIS SCHUTZ on the street himself. Mary is a Pray for those who retired nurse. They said they spend “All right, sir, what can we do receive and those who for you?” time every day on Ice Angels work. give as you watch a new Sometimes, they help transport The man was hoping for a pair YouTube video about the those who are homeless to doctors’ of jeans. In January, he stood in a Kaplans’ mission. appointments. line of about 10 people in a grassy www.okumc.org The Kaplans also encourage parking lot, near an SUV with its those they meet on the streets to distinctive sign: “The Ice Angels.” And one of the people they served connect with Oklahoma City’s Lenny and Mary Kaplan’s Homeless Alliance, which focuses outreach to people who live on dubbed them The Ice Angels. on getting housing, counseling, the streets of Oklahoma City was “That was a life-altering hap- and medical care for people with- inspired one hot summer day sev- pening,” Mary said. Their project began to expand out a permanent home. eral years ago. Every Wednesday, the couple As the couple drove to a when one person said, “Thank you very much for the water, but what goes out to distribute food and church service, “I noticed a group other supplies to the people, who of rather disheveled people gather- I really need is some food. I am hungry.” have learned to watch for that red ing around a local fast-food drive- SUV. With help from their church, in. The temperature was 98 degrees There is a constant demand OKC-Epworth United Methodist, at 10:30 a.m. By the time we left for the items they provide — new and others, the Kaplans began from church, the temperature had and used clothing, shampoo, dis- to distribute lunches, along with climbed to 112 degrees,” Mary posable razors, socks, and under- Mary and Lenny Kaplan show off a sleeping mat that was wrote in an account of how their clothing, shoes, toiletries, and wear, Mary said. hand-crocheted from plastic grocery bags. The mats, which project began. other donated items. Among the items packed into offer some cushioning and protection from the hard ground, “As we were driving home “Without the help of local the back of the Kaplans’ SUV are much-requested by people who live outside. in our air-conditioned car, to our churches, none of this could be are unusual sleeping mats, hand- air-conditioned house, Lenny and possible,” Mary said. The two crocheted by volunteers using The bags “are a much-request- Bank representative. Someone else I reflected how difficult life on credited New Life UMC in Moore, plastic shopping bags. Each mat ed and appreciated item,” Mary said. gives out pet food for the four- the street must be, especially in St. Matthew UMC in Midwest City, requires about 700 plastic bags The parking lot deliveries cre- legged best friends that accompany temperature extremes.” and OKC-Leland Clegg UMC and a hefty Size Q crochet hook ate what Mary calls a “Walmart of some people. They hit on the idea of put- as among others that support the to make. Other volunteers take on the street” for those who are home- Lenny estimated The Ice ting ice and bottles of water into Kaplans’ ministry. the task of cutting the bags into less. In addition to The Ice Angels’ Angels help 200 to 250 people a their cooler and distributing the Lenny, a former health advo- strips and getting them ready for provisions, a person can pick up a month. “It’s grown from just water cold water to people on the streets. cate for AIDS patients, once lived the crocheters. box of food from a Regional Food to this,” he said. February 13, 2015 The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact Page 5 Meal, mobility ministries keep small church nimble

An old habit upstages any fresh reso- motorized wheelchairs and scooters. Volun- lutions each New Year’s Day at Glencoe teers repair and clean the devices, which are United Methodist Church. then provided for free to people who need Since 1902, the church has served a mobility assistance. community dinner every Jan. 1, with one Some chairs are destined for long-term exception. (In 1919, a flu epidemic disrupted use. Sometimes a chair is needed for only the plan.) The town, population 601, is north- a brief time, while a client awaits a special east of Stillwater. order or because a person has a short-term More than 400 people attended the 112th medical need. New Year’s Dinner. Members of the church, Kenneth Brake, also a founding member which averages 44 in weekly worship, and of the Mobility Ministry, has used a power other volunteers served a lunch of turkey, chair for years. He serves as resident expert chicken pot pie, chicken noodle casserole, for the project. Brake also provides use of black-eyed peas, and more. Musical entertain- his workshop as the central storage and ment was provided. Donations for the meal are repair location. used by the United Methodist Women. A $10,000 Petree Grant in 2010 gave an The dinner is among an exceptional early boost to the Glencoe United Methodist number of ministries by this small-mem- Mobility Ministry. (Oklahoma United Meth- bership church that lives large. The Glen- odist Foundation has information about grant coe United Methodist Mobility Ministry is applications.) In 2013, the ministry received another example. a $1,000 grant from Central Rural Electric “The Glencoe United Methodist Church Cooperative. does not let size dictate what can be done Recently, the ministry expanded to to help others. They see a need; they fill it include donated hospital beds and other to the best of their ability,” wrote member assistive equipment such as walkers and Fara Williams. Harold Wheeler, left, and Kenneth Brake discuss repairing motorized wheel- manual wheelchairs. Team members have The Mobility Ministry began in 2010. chairs for Glencoe Church’s Mobility Ministry. traveled across the state to pick up and de- Retired clergyman Harold Wheeler realized liver equipment. that some people who needed motorized idea about a mobility ministry to the Glencoe of Christ, to provide mobility devices to “All this is done for the glory of God,” wheelchairs did not have adequate funds or Church Council. The Council agreed with non-ambulatory persons with few resources Williams stated. “It is amazing what ‘just a resources to acquire the assistive equipment. Rev. Wheeler. in order to encourage a more active lifestyle.” small church’ can do with hard work, deter- He researched the issue and presented his Thus began the mission: “in the Name The ministry obtains donations of used mination, and a passion for helping others.” Saint Paul to award 4 full scholarships Saint Paul School of Theology will The Oklahoma Conference Fellows award four full-ride scholarships to United also will receive a student appointment to Methodist men and woman of any age who pastor a small church, with a parsonage and will begin study at the seminary in Fall 2015. salary to cover living expenses. The awards will be granted to two stu- The Church of the Resurrection dents at each of the seminary’s two locations: Fellows will receive a stipend to cover on the campus of Oklahoma City Univer- living expenses while serving at the sity and at UM Church of the Resurrection, 21,000-member congregation’s suburban greater Kansas City, Mo. campus in Leawood, Kan., within the Great Funds will cover a student’s tuition, Plains Annual Conference. books, and fees for three years. Seminary President H. Sharon Howell The Saint Paul Fellows Program is a col- said, “We are seeking students who will laboration with Church of the Resurrection lead and serve an ever-changing church in and the Oklahoma Conference. The Okla- a broken and hungry world. Selected Fel- homa United Methodist Foundation provided lows will show exemplary leadership and the lead gift to “kick start” the program. promise for creative and faithful ministry.” The pastoral program is designed to Application deadline is March 15. eliminate debt and immerse students in Eight finalists will be invited for on-site varied church settings. Nationally, average interviews in March, and the seminary will seminary student loan debt is $45,000, ac- announce scholarship recipients on April 15. cording to a Saint Paul report. Learn more at www.spst.edu/fellows. Employment Secretary of Discipleship: Edmond- P.O. Box 247, Marlow, OK 73055; email First. 25 hours per week. Contact Sam to [email protected]; or call Powers at [email protected] 580-658-2765. Technology Coordinator: Edmond- Administrative Assistant: Douglas First. 25 hours per week. Contact Sam Boulevard UMC in Midwest City. 20 hours Powers at [email protected] per week. Send cover letter and resume to Director of Children’s Ministry: [email protected]. Owasso-First. Full-time. Send resume to Jim Youth Director: Sapulpa-First. Cinocca at 13800 E 106 St. N, Owasso, OK Part-time. Email resume to jeanne@ 74055; email [email protected]; sapulpafumc.org or by fax at 918-227-0646. or call 918-272-5731. Janitor: OKC-Southern Hills. Part- Director of Discipleship: Marlow-First. time. Send resume to conniejgibson@ Full-time. Send resume and cover letter to att.net. EPW - OK United Ad.v.mech_5.indd 1 7/29/14 2:13 PM Page 6 The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact February 13, 2015

GETTING SCHOOLED IN CONSTRUCTION — Seven people volunteered during Winter Break for Oklahoma City University to help at a Methodist school in Burrell Boom, Belize. Principal Evangelina Waight wrote, “We have been striving to complete three classrooms to be able to properly house our students. Therefore your contribution was a big help. May God continue to richly bless your endeavours.” Charles Neff, dean of the chapel at OCU, described the mission. “We worked five and one-half days con- structing a cinder-block railing for the second story, as well as playing with kids at the school. We all re- turned to the States enriched by our experience.” He plans mission opportunities with other UM campus ministries during Spring Break. OCU students who served in Belize were Olivia Coil, Madeline Boehlke, Sylvia Hayes, Beatrize Martinez, and Emily Kersten, along with parent Steve Hayes and Rev. Dr. Neff. Missionary Lisa Williams shared, “Burrell Boom holds a very special place in our hearts, and I am sure yours, too, now. Thanks for heeding the call to come to Belize and be the hands and feet of Christ.” The global Mission teams making plans church Through April, these are the Oklahoma Volunteers In Mission teams apping program — United Methodist Commu- currently registered with the Office of Mission. Mnications (UMCom) is using digital technology to help conferences map their churches. The Philippines • Cartagena, Colombia; Feb. 19-27; leader Bill Fish • Dallas, Texas; March 14-20, leader Elizabeth Horton-Ware Central Conference was the first to complete this process in • Rio Bravo, Mexico; Feb. 21-27; leader Bill Wentroth • Denver, Colo.; March 14-19; leader Chris Hopper three episcopal areas. • Vietnam; March 9-20; leader Randy Shrauner • Belmopan, Belize; March 15-22; OKC-Chapel Hill Church This work proved important during Typhoon Ruby prepa- • Roatan, Honduras; March 14-21; OKC-St. Luke’s Church • Big Creek Mission, Bear Branch, Ky.; March 15-21; Tulsa- rations in December; crisis mappers depended on UM data to • Belize City, Belize; March 14-22; Broken Arrow-First UMC New Haven Church provide shelter locations. Partners in the Democratic Republic • Delta Grace Ministries, Sunflower, Miss.; March 14-20, • Tulsa, Okla.; March 15-18; leader Hal Hamilton of Congo and Côte d’Ivoire also are engaged in the program. Cookson UMC • Waslala, Nicaragua; April 17-25; leader Paula Watkins • Port Isabel, Texas; March 14-22; leader Mike Terwilliger onversations on race — For Black History Month Cin February, Rethink Church is offering episodes (To learn more about VIM, contact Lori Foster, [email protected].) of “Night Call,” one of the first national radio call-in shows. Airing in the 1960s, the show was aimed at getting whites and blacks to talk to each other over the airwaves during a Christian ink time of great racial tension in the United States. The Gen- eral Commission on Archives and History helped digitize Study group feels welcome in tattoo parlor the episodes. Listen at http://rethinkchurch.org/articles/ United Methodists often see the Church’s logo, a cross ism inked on their bodies. Some are adding more. conversations-on-race/night-call. and flame, on signs or church materials. But some in Wild- For me,” said Nicole Pennington, “having a tattoo that’s oly Communion — The Week of Christian Unity wood, Fla., have decided to wear their link to the denomi- visible is a conversation starter.” Hbecame real in tangible and spiritual ways Jan. 25, nation on their sleeves, or at least really near their sleeves. Krista Olson added, “In the past I never felt like I fit in, at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. Canon Gina They were inspired by their unconventional pastor to I never felt like I belonged.” She echoes the feelings of other Campbell served Communion to both United Methodists share an outward sign of their internal convictions: tattoos. new members at the church. and Episcopalians. It is immediately obvious that Michael Beck isn’t the “There are so many young people out there right now, Her actions in the sanctuary were hailed by leaders of conventional image of a minister. There are his tattoos, in- that you mention the word ‘church’ and they’re just, like, both denominations as historic for the denominations’ Interim cluding the UM cross and flame. ‘Wow, no way.’ So when someone sees my tattoos I want to Eucharistic Sharing Agreement. There is his preaching shoeless, because he considers let them know that they’re welcome.” Kim Cape of the General Board of Higher Education any pulpit — no matter how informal — hallowed ground. Kjersti Hunterman requested a tattoo of a cross over scars and Ministry said, “Those things that bind us together are And there is his previous life, which — like his Bible on her wrist, from a very dark time in her life. stronger than those things that pull us apart. Sharing at the — is an open book. “God never wastes a hurt,” she said, “and this is a hurt table is at the heart of who we are. We celebrate our family “I guess most pastors don’t have criminal records,” Rev. that’s not wasted if I can share with other people what I’ve tree and common roots in Christ.” Beck said. “I was born addicted; my mother abandoned me been through and how He brought me through.” inter shelter — Cold temperatures in Northern at birth. I had some United Methodist pastors early in my Beck said his own brokenness is what attracts people WIraq forced thousands of families fleeing Mideast life start stepping in and mentoring me, but I made some to his ministry. “They say, ‘Hey, if this guy can turn his life violence to seek shelter. Some found refuge in communal wrong decisions and I ended up an alcoholic, a drug addict. around, then I can.’” settlements or abandoned and unfinished buildings inadequate “But I knew when there was nothing left to do that I could When he came to Wildwood only 30 to 40 people were for health and safety needs. go back to the church. God took a mess and made a message.” attending the church, and almost no children. Three years In response, the United Methodist Committee on Relief So the congregation at Wildwood UMC is not surprised later, membership has more than tripled and includes many (UMCOR) is supporting partner GlobalMedic in providing when Beck says things such as: young families. winterization kits to 1,620 displaced families in the Iraqi “We’re waiting expectantly for Jesus to return, maybe “Most denominations would not even take a chance on Kurdistan region. The kits include blankets, mattresses, today, amen? I don’t know, but I want to be in a tattoo parlor a person like me,” Beck said. “I’ve had a divorce, I have a coverlets, household heaters, and hygiene items. studying the Bible when he comes back.” criminal record. But The United Methodist Church, in our (Sign up for the United Methodist News Service’s Daily That’s not just a joke. A Wildwood Bible study grace-centered understanding that God can use broken people Digest at www.umc.org/news-and-media/daily-digest, or the group convenes in a tattoo parlor in nearby Ocala. and transform them, embraced me.” weekly UMCOR Hotline at www.umcor.org.) Most of the study participants already have religious symbol- — from “Taking Church to a Tattoo Parlor,” by UMTV February 13, 2015 The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact Page 7 CFA buys Conference-wide copyright licenses By HOLLY McCRAY by Oklahoma Conference Chancellor John Ray Green of Intellectual property is not free and NYLA WALLIN Duncan. A copyrighted poem titled “The Dash” is popular for The law does seem complicated, but it is clear about The Council on Finance and Administration (CFA) re- copyrighted music and videos. cently voted to purchase group licenses for use of copyrighted funerals, Green said. This poem may be recited, but not reprinted in a funeral bulletin, reposted, or distributed, ac- Without official permission from the holder of the rights, music and videos by every local church and by a number of such intellectual property cannot be copied. Oklahoma Conference agencies. cording to the law. Legal representatives for the author closely monitor use, and “they will come and get you” for The law applies to an extensive range of uses, from As of Feb. 1, the Conference has entered into agreements projecting song lyrics on a screen to photocopying hymnal noncompliance, Green stressed. with Christian Video Licensing International (CVLI) and pages, from posting videos on church websites to showing Christian Copyright Licensing International (CCLI). These Not all churches previously covered a movie in a weekday preschool class. two companies administrate such licensing for nu- Be wise about the resources your church or agency uses. merous intellectual properties. Prior to acquiring the group licensing, 79 percent of churches in the Conference had You cannot assume material is free to use simply because The Council decision also saves you found it on the Web. You cannot make a video of your CCLI coverage, according to Depart- money because the group licenses mission project and add a popular song as the soundtrack ment of Communications records. cost less than individual church without the copyright permission for that music. You can- Only 36 percent of churches had coverage. not claim a composer is “anonymous” just because a choir coverage through CVLI. The contracts for CVLI/ member said so. Joseph Harris, Confer- CCLI group licensing for The General Board of Discipleship of The UMC pre- ence director of Communi- a year cost approximately pared “Copyright 101: Penalties for Copyright Infringement.” cations, told the CFA about $111,000. Typical costs Copyright holders can sue for statutory and punitive damages. other advantages of the for individual church and Set by the U.S. government, statutory damages range from group licensing. agency licenses for a year $750 to $30,000, and can go up to $150,000 per infringement, Previously a separate would add up to approxi- according to the Board document. mately $175,000. license was needed for each Money from the Confer- church in a charge, whether Extensive libraries in CVLI/CCLI ence’s Contingency Fund will a three-point rural charge or CVLI is the licensing administrator for 650 film pro- pay this year for previously a multi-site congregation such ducers and distributors, and each of them holds the rights to unlicensed churches and agen- as OKC-St. Luke’s. These are thousands of movies. Watch a video on the CVLI website cies and for unrenewed licenses. now combined as one license under that explains how to determine if a movie you want to show At the CFA meeting in March, the the name of the main church in both at your church or event is covered under that licensing. The Council will recommend future budget- CCLI and CVLI. video link is: cvli.com/about. ing, and that will be presented to the Annual A daycare or other weekday children’s CCLI enables legal copying activities that assist with Conference. educational program at a church, such as Mothers Day congregational singing, including computer projections, The East Ohio Annual Conference provides similar group Out, also previously required separate CVLI licensing, said songsheets, and bulletin inserts. This company represents licensing. East Ohio’s discounted costs for the two licenses Rev. Dr. Harris. over 3,000 publishers/song owners and over 300,000 worship are calculated in each church’s Apportionment amount. He explained that for 2015, such childcare comes under songs. Find out more at http://www.ccli.com/welcome/. For Popular funeral poem copyrighted the umbrella of the new group licenses. additional help, go to http://support.ccli.com. The childcare licensing is based on the completion of Please note that copyright permissions for all movies or The relevance of the Council’s action Jan. 29 was under- a Children’s Education Survey, necessary to qualify. The music are NOT covered by these two companies. The Depart- scored the very next day. An Associated Press story reported surveys are being received by the Department of Commu- ment of Communications encourages you to search for titles that misuse of the NFL-copyrighted term “Super Bowl” in nications. on the CCLI/CVLI websites to ensure compliance with the law. advertising has led to lawsuits. The group licensing does not cover live streaming or Churches and agencies are receiving emails or letters Another example of copyright compliance of special podcasting, Harris said. Few churches use those media at from the Department and from CCLI with license numbers. note for clergy and churches was described to the CFA this time. For more information, go to www.okumc.org. Out-of-the-box Easter ideas to adapt for your church As cultures all over the world celebrate on the community. mal, candy, and grass. They all received the Mobile, Ala., made it a missional moment Christ’s Resurrection, churches have an Have an Easter basket/food coloring books, to help share the story of last year. incredible opportunity to connect with their pantry giveaway. Easter with their children. The egg-hunt participants also served in 2 an outreach ministry, assembling hundreds of communities. Another UM church collected traditional Offer a mountaintop Good supply bags to help meet needs of homeless Carry the cross on Good Friday. items for Easter baskets. Members shopped Friday service. 3 people in their city. 1 The people of Winstead UMC,Wilson, at thrift stores for baskets and collected new Youth at University UMC in San An- N.C., decided they wanted to “do something stuffed animals from friends and neighbors. tonio begin their Good Friday service on Host micro events at various tangible and memorable to witness to Jesus Sunday school classes donated candy, and Maundy Thursday. After school, they meet 5 locations in your community. on Easter weekend,” said Pastor Paul Dun- the church bought Easter grass and coloring at a state park and pitch their tents to stay Travel may be an obstacle for some ham. They place a cross display on property books that pictured the Easter story. up with Jesus in prayer. Then Good Friday people, so go to them. Consider seeking nearby. Carrying the crosses to the property Instead of members assembling the is filled with fasting, prayer, and reflection. permission at bigger apartment complexes has grown into a meaningful tradition. baskets and handing them out, the congrega- to use their courtyards or picnic areas to When the sun begins to set, they start a Last year, they made it a community tion enabled recipient parents to be part of host egg hunts. Include inflatables, games, short hike up a mountain so that they arrive event by collaborating with 10 other church- the process. food, door prizes, and music to grab atten- around sunset. At the top, gathered at a cross es in town. They began at the AME Zion The church collaborated with a local tion. It will be hard for residents to resist the they help carry there, the youth and anyone building downtown and carried the crosses food pantry and set up at a predetermined fun. Make sure to invite participants to your 10 miles through town. After placing them location on Saturday. Day and place were who chooses to join them sing, read the story church’s Easter service. at the site, they had a joint worship service. well advertised. of the Crucifixion, pray, and sit in silence, Between the games and popcorn stand, Not only did people involved in the After families received what they need- reflecting on the sacrifice Jesus made. families could grab bottled water, travel procession participate in the service, but ed from the food pantry, parents shopped Try a missional egg hunt. soaps, and other items and place them in also people who saw the crosses being car- for their children’s Easter basket contents. 4 Egg hunts annually draw crowds to bags as a moment of service amid the festival. ried then joined the moving service. Rev. Instead of what someone else packed at churches everywhere. What if you turned it — By Jeremy Steele of United Methodist Dunham said the event had a huge impact random, parents got to select a stuffed ani- around this year? The people at Christ UMC, Communications (UMCom), Nashville, Tenn. Page 8 The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact February 13, 2015

Upcoming organizational meetings: Cimarron District: April 11, at Districts 10:30 a.m., Woodward-First UMC Continued from page 1 trict Superintendent Greg Tener Council Oak District: May 3, at Transitional procedures be- in late January discussed the 2 p.m., Tulsa-First UMC gan wholeheartedly after lay and vision that steers this missional Crossroads District: April 18, at 10:30 clergy delegates at the 2014 An- realignment of districts. Here are a.m., OKC-Church of the Servant nual Conference voted to realign excerpts. Green Country District: May 3, at 3 p.m., Claremore-First UMC from 12 to eight districts. Q. What does missional Most recently, the 12 districts strategist mean? This is part Heartland District: April 26 , at 3 p.m., Norman-McFarlin UMC held Final Conferences. Business of the job description for super- included resolutions to officially Lake Country District: April 25, at intendents of the new districts. 10:30 a.m., McAlester-First UMC disband as incorporated entities, Bishop Hayes: The missional elections of temporary trustees, Northern Prairie District: April 12, at strategist paints the picture of how 3 p.m., Perry UMC and updates on District Apportion- ministry can look in this setting or ment budgeting. Wichitas District: April 19, at this place. We need to paint this 3 p.m., Lawton-Centenary UMC Celebrations were held in picture of a different kind of future. conjunction with some Final We need people who will be able Conferences. On Jan. 25, Bishop Q. Where do you see God to provide the paint and brush and with us in this change? Hayes preached at the Enid Dis- canvass to do that. trict event. Tener: The image that comes Both Hayes and Superinten- Q. Are mission and ministry to my mind is the Christian Life dent Donna Dodson shared histori- interchangeable? Photo by Holly McCray Center at St. Luke’s, full, last year cal stories. Rev. Dodson said Enid- Rev. Dr. Tener: Like the Emulating the Old Testament people who stacked stones to at Annual Conference. A lot of dif- First Church held its first worship chicken and the egg, which comes mark where God blessed them in their journeys, Jeremy Wil- ficult questions. Even with those, service on the courthouse lawn. first? They’re simultaneous. cox on Jan. 25 places a rock representing Kingfisher UMC there was excitement that “we Another church in the district built A missional strategist is dis- on the altar during the final Enid District Conference. are going to do something new.” I a sod house with canvas roof for cerning those places where we sensed the presence of God in the its first sanctuary. And in the early need to do slight tweaking and room that day. As conversations one another, getting to dream, to 1900s, an offering total of 15 cents those places where we need to say, Q: What is the role for laity have continued, that sense of excite- “was a great day,” she noted. ‘This has got to be a deeper change in this vision? The work think about what this picture ought ment that God is at work continues. Both leaders also turned atten- if we’re going to reach new people.’ at this point seems mainly to look like for “my church.” I’m And we’re changing for the tion firmly to the future. Bishop: In a lot of places in to involve clergy, such as hoping that people who have sat purpose of reaching new people District borders will change, Oklahoma, churches know how facilitators for Missional Areas. on the back row will move up and with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but “the work is continuing,” to do ministry; they do it very Bishop: If you look at history, take their place in leadership. not just because we want to change Dodson said, including Lay Ser- well. We’re going to find out what early on most churches only had Tener: It may look clergy- things. What is it that we can do vant training April 18 and CLEW makes this so successful so we can pastors every 30-60 days. (But) the driven right now because the together for the good of God’s District Youth Camps in summer. duplicate that. work of the church had to go on. Cabinet is writing the documents Kingdom and the Church that we “Be bold, brave, and adven- But there are some places, We have pastors convening about the roles of convening elder, couldn’t do on our own? turesome in this 21st century, like and too many, where people are these groups, but the laity will of laity, of what a Missional Area Bishop: This project has got the pioneers,” Dodson said. fearful about their future. They carry the ministry in these places. looks like. Transitional Teams to be Spirit-led. You can reorganize The bishop declared, “We’ve have built this moat mentality This realignment, this missional are roughly half (laity) and half and plan, but if it doesn’t have the set the course, but we understand where they pull the bridge up. strategy is going to involve them (clergy). We know laity are very Spirit of the Living God in it, it’s where we end up belongs to God.” We’ve got to leave the building in ways they never imagined. excited about the possibility of not going to survive. Our allegiance Hayes and OKC-South Dis- and go out and do ministry. We’ll have people talking to being involved in missional work. is to Christ. $3 million Continued from page 1 The Midweek Meal at a covenant agreement with the Oklahoma Edmond-New Covenant United Methodist Foundation to work in a of OKC-St. Luke’s. creates fellowship time church while attending seminary and to serve At the 2014 Annual Conference, he for, from left: William as an Oklahoma Conference pastor under had encouraged lay and clergy delegates Pruitt, Jay Smith, and appointment for a minimum of six years to announce the Pastor Education Fund in Johnny Floyd. Founda- after graduation. every church. tion Scholar Smith is “The gifts that have been made today “It’s not out of the ordinary that someone among those who cook be given a waiver on their debt in exchange will strengthen the church of tomorrow,” and serve meals, and he said Rev. Dr. Long in January. “All of those for serving,” Hayes noted. Similar agree- teaches a Disciple class. ments secure physicians for some rural who have given and the United Methodist Photo by Jamie Davis Foundation have made an investment for communities, for example. developing leadership that will inspire our received donations from churches of $50 to Bishop Robert Hayes Jr. of Oklahoma The bishop clarified, “This is an invest- church in its mission to share Christ.” $50,000, and from individuals and families referred to Jesus’ teaching about sowing seeds. ment. If they decide to leave before the six Trustee Paul Milburn of Shawnee ap- of $10 to $100,000. “These seeds have fallen on good soil years under appointment, they take the bal- proached the Foundation about the need for “Because of the two-for-one match of- because these people have been so gener- ance of the debt with them.” However, “if we a fund to provide scholarships for ministerial fered by the Milburn and Small families, we ous to step forward and offer some of their can have that person in ministry, engaged in students who exhibit exceptional aptitude for now have a $3 million endowment that will resources that challenged us. Now we are work that really challenges and inspires, we pastoral work. His desire was to establish a help in the seminary education of clergy for reaping the fruit,” Hayes said. won’t have to beg them to stay.” $2 million endowment by providing match- generations to come. This is a significant suc- “I’m delighted that we reached this point If you are being called by God to serve ing funds up to $1 million. cess and we celebrate that success,” declared where we can claim success.” in a church and want to seek a scholarship Trustee Richard Small of Tulsa caught Bill Junk, president of the Foundation. He expects the Pastor Education Fund from the Pastor Education Fund, the first step the vision and offered an additional match “Many of you made significant contribu- to strategically change how the Conference is to complete the online application at www. of up to $1 million. tions to this drive, and I am deeply grateful finds exceptional pastors. okumf.org/pefapp. In meeting their challenge, the campaign for your faithfulness and generosity.” Each Foundation Scholar will enter into —Holly McCray