2020-08-13

Informing and Inspiring Oklahoma Baptists Since 1912

BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM • AUGUST 13, 2020

/// SEE PAGE 6

CO N T E N T S : Page 2 | News & Trends OBU hosts 106th Spring Commencement, honoring 288 graduates >> KENNY DAY

Encourage: A ‘nonplussed’ world >> HANCE DILBECK

“We come to this convention in the midst of turmoil; turmoil that is political, commercial, social, educational and religious.”

These words come from the Executive Committee report to the Annual Meeting of Oklahoma Baptists in 1925. Luke Homes, pastor of Tishomingo, First, brought them to my attention.

Brother Homes reminded me that, “This is not the first Annual Meeting that Oklahoma Baptists came to with uncertainty.” Brother Holmes piqued my curiosity, so I refreshed my memory of Oklahoma history. Our state, in many ways, went nuts in the 1920s! /// SEE PAGE 3

2020 State Missions Offering Emphasis kicks off >> BRIAN HOBBS

The Edna McMillan Oklahoma State Missions Offering (SMO) emphasis for 2020, which culminates in the week of prayer (Sept. 6-13), has begun in churches across Oklahoma.

Oklahoma Baptists women’s and missions ministry office is distributing SMO promotional materials to churches, which include prayer points, video resources, children’s missions activities and more. /// SEE PAGE 5

Let the little children ‘quarantine’: Engaging kids with the Gospel during a pandemic >> HANNAH HANZEL

Children’s ministry is hard.

From early Sunday morning drop-off to late Wednesday night pick up, the church nursery and children’s ministry classrooms are constantly teeming with children of all ages. When the church halls and sanctuary are filled with the sound of kids’ laughter and chattering, there are signs of life in church. In the midst of this pandemic, however, there has been a deep lacking of those joyful sounds in the building. /// SEE PAGE 7

Follow the Baptist Messenger on social media!

To comment on articles, visit www.baptistmessenger.com

Page 3 | Voices Sword & Trowel: Historical amnesia >> BRIAN HOBBS

Page 4 | Gospel Ministry Rite of Passage: Camp memories >> WALKER MOORE

Page 7 | Features Indian Falls Creek reaches across North America with virtual camp week >> JENNIFER BARNET T

Page 10 | Ministry Toolbox 12 things I hope help me be a better preacher and teacher >> CHUCK LAWLESS

Page 12 | News & Culture Report of the treasurer

I N I S T RY GOSPEL M

ENDS NEWS & TR

OBU hosts 106th Spring Commencement, & SPORTS & T MISSIONS N E R TA I N M E M I N I S T RY T N E honoring 288 graduates 1

2

O O L B OX T H C R U H C

CLASSIFIE

PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N

LT U R E U C & S W E N

DS

1) OBU’s graduation ceremony took place on the south lawn of Raley Chapel; 2) Students take their symbolic final walk across campus to the commencement ceremony; 3) U.S. Senator James Lankford delivers the address to graduates.

>> PHOTOS: HEATHER HAMILTON

>> by Kenny Day

OBU MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

SHAWNEE—Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) conferred degrees upon 288 students during the University’s 106th Spring Commencement Saturday, Aug. 1. The ceremony took place on the south lawn of Raley Chapel on the OBU campus in Shawnee, be3 ginning at 8:30 a.m. James Lankford, United States Senator from Oklahoma, delivered the adE dress to graduates. The W O N L ION N EceremoENT T ny was moved outdoors USIVE C N EB-EXtoCLallow W for social distancing, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Graduates embarked on a symbolic final walk across campus as OBU students before arriving in front of Raley Chapel for the ceremony. The Walk mirFO rors one many of the graduates N INWelIOduring ICATtook

PU B L

come Week as new students at OBU. The students, dressed in academic regalia, passed by OBU faculty and staff membersV asO they E S to their seats.

I Cproceeded Lankford delivered a heartfelt and inspiring address to the graduates.

“You have been equipped by God in this institution,” Lankford said. “Go fulfill your calling.

Over the past several years, hundreds of people have given their time, their insight and their talent to get you equipped for life and for service.

You get to choose now if you’re going to waste that gift that you were given or to do something wise with it.”

OBU President Heath A. Thomas presided over the ceremonies and delivered the charge to graduates.

“My prayer for you,” Thomas said, “is that you would allow the Lord Jesus unmitigated permission to work through your life

NE N E W O NELCIONTENT

EVENTS AUG 24

Basic Tax Seminar

SIV WEB-EXCLU AUG 29

The Call Conference

Info: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Baptist Building Contact Thomas Jordan tjordan@oklahomabaptists.org for more information

Info: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Oklahoma Baptist University oklahomabaptists.org/ thecallconference

AUG 25

Student Worship Choir Retreat

Basic Tax Seminar

AUG 29

Info: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Owasso, First Contact Thomas Jordan tjordan@oklahomabaptists.org for more information

Info: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Midwest City, Meadowood oklahomabaptists.org/ student-worship

AUG 29

Internal Controls and Legal Issues Tax Seminar

Oklahoma Baptist Children’s Chorus Retreat Info: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Baptist Building oklahomabaptists.org/ worship-music

AUG 31

Info: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Baptist Building Contact Thomas Jordan tjordan@oklahomabaptists.org for more information

FOR MORE INFO ON OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS’ EVENTS, VISIT WWW.OKLAHOMABAPTISTS.ORG/EVENTS

Churches see success with online giving TESS SCHOONHOVEN | JULY 29

A barbecue restaurant, a fast food place or two and a department store are about all the town of Munford has, according to Reese Gill, student pastor at Munford, Ala., First.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Gill and the other 250 or so people who attended Sunday morning worship services at Munford, First were accustomed to giving their tithes and offerings in physical form—checks and paper bills.

PUBLICATIO

N INFO

EVENTS

U.S. Senate confirms Southern Baptist as Air Force Deputy Chief of Chaplains BRANDON ELROD | AUG 3

Chaplain Col. Randall (Randy) E. Kitchens of the U.S. Air Force received confirmation July 30 from the U.S. Senate to become the Air Force’s 27th Deputy Chief of Chaplains. The confirmation entails the promotion to the rank of brigadier general.

FIND ALL THESE STORIES AND MORE ONLINE AT WWW.BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM

2

so that our world might be changed. Don’t let anyone tell you any differently. You are fundamentally agents of change and transformation for good in our world.

“I want to challenge you today, my friends, take the lessons, the learning, the skills, the virtues, indeed the dispositions you’ve gained here, and live them out loud in your world,” he said. “Our world desperately needs your voice. We need your influence. From Bison Hill, I charge you: Go into our world. Make a difference for God. Go make a difference for good. Go and live well, go and serve your community, go and serve our Lord.”

Visit baptistmessenger.com/obugraduation to see the full list of OBU graduates. To watch E video of I Nthe N Lokbu.edu.

E W O visit Nceremony, the commencement T N ENT

August 13, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Trends

WEB-EXCLU

SIVE CO

PUBLICATIO

N INFO

The Baptist Messenger (ISSN 0744-9518) is published semi-monthly by the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma, 3800 N. May, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73112-6506. Periodicals postage paid at Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Circulation last issue: 41,926. Individual subscriptions $13.75 per year. When writing for a change of address or a subscription renewal, please include a copy of your mailing label. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Baptist Messenger, 3800 N. May, Oklahoma City, OK 73112-6506.

While the Baptist Messenger attempts to provide advertisers of integrity who furnish quality products, it is recommended that buyers be cautious, do research and get references to any advertiser with which they are not familiar. Publication of an advertisement in the Baptist Messenger does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or businesses. August 13, 2020 • Volume 109, Number 15.

Member, Baptist Press News, Christian Newspaper Association, Evangelical Press Association, Oklahoma Press Association.

EVENTS

MESSENGER STAFF >> Brian Hobbs | Editor bhobbs@baptistmessenger.com >> Chris Doyle | Managing Editor cdoyle@baptistmessenger.com >> Hannah Hanzel | Art Projects Leader hhanzel@baptistmessenger.com >> Lori Coats | Subscriptions/Assistant lcoats@baptistmessenger.com >> Chris Forbes | Staff Writer/ Branding & Marketing cforbes@oklahomabaptists.org

VOICES

Encourage: A ‘nonplussed’ world /// PREVIEWED ON COVER

Hance Dilbeck Oklahoma Baptists’ Executive Director-Treasurer @Hance_Dilbeck

“We come to this convention in the midst of turmoil; turmoil that is political, commercial, social, educational and religious.”

These words come from the Executive Committee report to the Annual Meeting of Oklahoma Baptists in 1925. Luke Homes, pastor of Tishomingo, First, brought them to my attention. Brother Homes reminded me that, “This is not the first Annual Meeting that Oklahoma Baptists came to with uncertainty.” Brother Holmes piqued my curiosity, so I refreshed my memory of Oklahoma history. Our state, in many ways, went nuts in the 1920s!

Oklahoma had a race massacre. Our governor declared martial law to do battle with the KKK. Farm

prices bottomed out. To quote the Oklahoma history book of David Baird and Danney Goble, “The 1920s were easily the most troubled decade in state history. Before it ended, Oklahoma would impeach and remove two successively elected governors from office and would send at least one certified lunatic to Congress.” This was a decade of bitterness, divisiveness, and even violence in our state.

During that season, the president of our convention was A.N. Hall, the longtime pastor of Muskogee, First. He and the Executive Secretary J.B. Rounds led the Board of Directors to bring the report that included these words.

“We come to this convention in the midst of turmoil; turmoil that is political, commercial, social, educational and religious… Surely man’s extremity is God’s opportunity. For that reason the church and its agencies need to be continuously so close to the Holy Spirit of God that they can surely interpret the Divine will to a nonplussed world.”

I had to look up the definition of nonplussed: “(of a person) surprised and confused so much that they

are unsure how to act.” In 2020, we are living in a nonplussed world. This year is pushing our people, our schools, our businesses and our institutions to their limits. I agree with Brother A.N. Hall, “Man’s extremity is God’s opportunity.”

As followers of Jesus, we are neither surprised nor confused by the chaos and confusion of our broken communities. We have always known that our resources are insufficient, our sense of control is a farce and all our striving is vanity, like striving after the wind.

We also know Jesus.

When our Lord was born, a bright light pierced the darkness, and the angels declared, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you Good News of great joy which will be for all people” (Luke 2:10).

This present turmoil will bring many to their extremity, to the end of their rope, and finally they might have ears to hear. God give us grace to be so close to the Holy Spirit that we can be light in this darkness, truth in this confusion, justice to the least of these and that we can bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to this broken world.

Sword & trowel: Historical amnesia Brian Hobbs Editor of the Baptist Messenger @BrianGHobbs

Amnesia (noun) am·ne·sia | \ am-’nē-zhә \ 1: loss of memory due usually to brain injury, shock, fatigue, repression or illness 2: a gap in one’s memory 3: the selective overlooking or ignoring of events or acts that are not favorable or useful to one’s purpose or position J. Rufus Fears, the late historian who served as a distinguished professor at the University of Oklahoma for many years, once noted that we live in an “a-historical age,” meaning an era that finds littleto-no use for history.

While it’s true that we have a History Channel, and that many historical biographies and other books are produced, we Americans generally don’t tend to know our history, nor our part in the grand sweep of time. Generally, our historical knowledge goes back

only so far, such as to the 1770s, or 1940s or 1980s.

Therefore it could be said that we are living with a sort of “historical amnesia.” For this, we unfortunately are increasingly paying a high price. It’s not just everyday citizens who lack historical thinking. Far too few of our elected officials are thinking historically when it comes to policy decisions and other matters.

The daily media treadmill and social media scorecard has instead monopolized our shrinking attention span, thus rendering us unable to think for the long-term or as informed citizens.

Perhaps worse, many students today seem to view history as one giant boring topic. It appears students these days can tell you more about what happened in the Star Wars movies (movies which I myself enjoy) than what happened in World War I or World War II. This is not necessarily a new problem. In fact, a 1982 survey of “sixth through 12th-graders in a Midwest school district… (determined) that kids were ‘largely indifferent’ or revealed ‘negative attitudes’ toward social studies” and history.

This does not have to be the case. History is too important to wither away or become a topic for only a few “egg heads.” For us to recapture young people’s interest in history, we must bring storytelling to life.

History is not just a list of dates and names; it is real events and real people like you and me.

Fortunately, there are so many great teachers in the state of Oklahoma and in this great nation that we can see a revived interest in history. For this generation in school now, we have many tools for learning, including through multi-media technology. Whether through new means or time-honored approaches, we must support our educators in any efforts to renew interest in thinking historically.

What is at stake? For Christians, we know that history is not merely academic. We know that the Gospel itself is rooted in history. Jesus Christ, the Son of God became flesh and dwelt among us. We know that He really was born of a virgin, that He walked the earth, performed great and miraculous deeds, living a sinless life. We know that He died and rose again. The Gospel is historical at its heart.

The sooner we can reinvigorate a historical sense in ourselves, the sooner we will see it translated to young people. Whether it’s remembering the bombing at Pearl Harbor and heroics of WWII, or celebrating Christ’s birth at Christmas, we can find opportunities to tell the story about what God is doing throughout time.

In the end, we must overcome our historical amnesia; not only for our own edification, not only for America’s future; but to give God glory for His grand work throughout all the ages.

Voices | August 13, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

3

ENDS NEWS & TR

I N I S T RY GOSPEL M

Rite of passage: SOwies and empathy PORTS & T N AINME

& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY Walker Moore

President Emeritus of Awe Star Ministries Email | walker@awestar.org @WalkerDeanMoore

O O L B OX T H C R U H C

Today, I’ve been sitting at my computer and thinking. But I’m not good at sitting. I want to be out and about, interacting with people. And I’m really not good at thinking. Do you know how hard it is and how much energy it takes? It’s probably a good thing I’m sitting whileFI’m D S After using all that enI Ethinking.

S S IIdon’t C LtoAthink, ergy have any left to stand up.

Right now, I’m sitting here thinking about this column. For years, I’ve called it “Rite of Passage Parenting,” but in reality it should be called, “What Walker’s Thinking As He Sits in Front of His Computer.” But no one would read a column with that title. Maybe I should call it “Walker’s Ramblings.” That wouldV beO a more S label.

I C Eaccurate I apologize for rambling, but I had surgery this morning. My wife laughs at me because I only had a wart removed from my arm. She’s undergone multiple open heart surgeries, had holes drilled into her head and delivered two babies, so she doesn’t see things from my perspective. But anytime someone takes a scalpel to your skin, doctors classify it as surgery.

I tried to elicit some sympathy leading up to my ordeal, but every time I shared that I was going to the doctor to have a wart removed, the other person

NTERT E would take off on a story about their own surgery,

which they proved by showing a four-inch scar. My appointment was at 8 o’clock in the morning, and I was home by 8:15. I wasn’t even in the office long enough to come out with a war story. I spent my reP LtoEpay&the bill. covery time standing in line PEO When I left to go to the doctor’s offiSce, I told my NEW H C R U H C wife they might want to keep me overnight for observation. She was surprised when I came home in 15 minutes. She thought it would take at least 30.

The office did give me a special sheet of paper titled “Post-biopsy Wound Care Instruction.” The only thing that would have been more embarrassE shirt being was if the doctor had pinned TitUtoRmy L U C & S W E fore he sent N me home.

The instructions weren’t complicated. “Keep the bandage in place and dry for 24 hours.” They went on to say, “It’s all right to use a Band-Aid to keep the wound covered, but it’s not necessary.” It’s hard to get people to feel your pain if the worst thing that happens post-surgery is wearing a Band-Aid for 24 hours. And the Band-Aid they used was small and flesh-colored. You would have had to look hard to notice it.

I always thought doctors gave you an option about what kind of Band-Aid you wanted. I would have picked something ferocious like “Angry Birds.”

People would notice I had something done to my arm, and I could have gone around muttering something like “war wound.”

In some ways, I feel cheated. The doctor says I’ll have a scar, but if you want to see it, you’ll need to bring your magnifying glass.

Right now, I think the numbing shot is wearing off and I’m beginning to feel… well, not much different. But I am starting to think more clearly. At least I think I am.

One of the things I love about the Scriptures is the way Jesus identifies with all of our suffering and struggles, or as my little great-niece Victoria calls them, our “owies.” “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have One who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet He did not sin” (Heb. 4:15).

You’ve never encountered a situation or an owie that Jesus Himself hasn’t encountered. Have you ever felt betrayed by a loved one? So has He. Have you ever been physically, mentally or spiritually abused? So has He. Have you ever suffered physical pain? So has He. Jesus came to this earth to identify with us, to know and experience the challenges of living this side of eternity.

Since I couldn’t get anyone to empathize with me, I showed Jesus my owie, and He understood.

He knows what I’m going through and told me that together, we can get through this. Then He gave me a promise from His Word: “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you’” (Heb. 13:5).

I guess He told me that because He knew the wound on my arm wasn’t the only owie I would get that morning. The second one came when I paid the bill.

Ministry wives appreciation month Amy Cordova Missions and Women’s Ministries Partner for Oklahoma Baptists @amy_cordova

In the month of August, Oklahoma Baptists dedicate time to honor and encourage ministry wives.

As a pastor’s wife, there is a deep joy in serving the Lord alongside my husband. Together, we get to see the Lord at work daily.

The beauty of watching lives changed by the hope found in Jesus Christ is a mission and calling worthy of surrender. Ministry is a great gift that brings about various seasons. These seasons can fluctuate on a spectrum of differing degrees of excitement and weariness.

In the Lord’s provision and guidance, He often brings encouragement through the Holy Spirit, His Word and His people. I am thankful for the times others have taken to encourage me. Their thoughtfulness and prayers remind me of God’s goodness and His presence.

This year has been especially challenging for many families in ministry. Ministry wives have stepped into unusual roles to support their husbands and the work of the church. At the foundation of these ef-

4

forts is a deep spiritual calling to serve the Lord as they love and care for their church family.

There are practical, inexpensive ways to encourage the ministry wives in your church or association: • Mail handwritten letters • Provide a home-cooked meal from your small group for the minister’s family • Collect money for a gift card or thoughtful present • Plan a craft for the nursery or elementary-aged children to give to the staff wives A text message, social media post or letter in the mail is a powerful source of sweet encouragement.

Affirming the service and care of your minister’s wife is greatly appreciated. A simple “thank you” is always welcomed.

Furthermore, in the month of August, we encourage your church to find time on an August Sunday morning to recognize these women. Our prayer is this encouragement will advance the Gospel as they continue the work God has called them to in their homes, church and community.

Another way to show appreciation to the ministry wives in your church is by providing them a weekend away to be refreshed and encouraged. Each year, Oklahoma Baptists plans a retreat for wives to connect and care for one another. While ministering through a challenging season, Amy Petersen, Oklahoma Baptists’ ministry wives ministry partner,

August 13, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Gospel Ministry

recognized the need for encouraging relationships in ministry and set the theme of the event to focus on the gift of friendship.

Petersen shared about her desire for the event.

“Our prayer for us this weekend,” she said, “is to have honest conversations about loneliness, vulnerability and isolation. We will deep dive into our need for friendship, the struggles we face and how to grow friendships as a ministry wife.”

The event will be at Oklahoma City, Putnam City on Sept. 25-26. The cost of the event is $50. Registration will open Aug. 17. The deadline to register is Sept. 17.

Jacki King will be the keynote speaker for the event. She serves as the minister to women at her church, and in her spare time, she hosts a podcast called “At The Table” where she has the privilege of sharing the stories of women leaders in the Southern Baptist Convention.

Jacki holds a bachelor’s degree in biblical studies and women’s ministry from Criswell College in Dallas, Texas, and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in theology at Southwestern Seminary. Jacki’s husband, Josh, is the lead pastor of Conway, Ark., Second.

Courtney Tice will be leading worship. She is a worship leader at Broken Arrow, BattleCreek and is a vocal teacher for Inola Public Schools.

For more information about the event, call Oklahoma Baptists at 405/942-3800.

& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY

SPORTS & T MEN E N T E R TA I N

2020 State Missions Off ering emphasis kicks & P L Eoff O E X P O B L O C H TO WS R CH /// U PREVIEWED ON COVER

>> by Brian Hobbs ED I TOR

The Edna McMillan Oklahoma State Missions Offering (SMO) emphasis for 2020, which culminates in the week of prayer (Sept. 6-13), has begun in churches across Oklahoma.

Oklahoma Baptists women’s and missions ministry office is distributing SMO promotional materials to churches, which include prayer points, video resources, children’s missions activities and more.

The SMO statewide goal has been set at $1.2 million and funds multiple missions efforts, including the following three areas which are highlighted through the promotional materials: Prison ministry “Oklahoma Baptists are impacting prisoners with the Gospel. Through a new ministry initiative in partnership with Oklahoma Baptist University, long-term inmates have the opportunity to earn a theological education. Your giving will provide inmates ministry training as they serve the Lord by sharing the hope of Jesus with their fellow inmates in the prison system.”

Pastoral care “The health and strength of a church depend on the health and strength of a pastor. As Oklahoma Baptists, we encourage one another to advance the Gospel. Shepherding the flock of God is challenging work. Every pastor needs relational support.

The offering will provide resources to strengthen our pastors, so they can shepherd the flock of God in a way that advances the Gospel.”

CLASSIFIE

CES

DS

V O I missions Partnership “Oklahoma Baptists have a great heritage of sending missionaries overseas with the International Mission Board. In an effort to reach the nations, every church has the opportunity to connect with missionaries overseas through the State Missions Offering. From any town in our state, we can touch the world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ through praying, giving and going.”

Hance Dilbeck, executive director-treasurer for Oklahoma Baptists, encouraged individuals and churches to consider participating financially in the offering.

“The challenges we have faced in 2020 remind us that we live in a broken world,” he wrote in a letter to pastors. “This should come as no surprise. Jesus teaches us to embrace brokenness as opportunity for the Gospel.

“This year’s Offering impacts key areas of brokenness in society—hunger, foster care, imprisonment,

E CHURCH N

addiction—with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. People who are distressed and downcast like shepherdless sheep are people ripe unto harvest for Jesus.”

Dilbeck added, “God is glorified when people give in unity; giving together to advance the Gospel toRE LTofU U C & gether. God is glorified when people give out scarS W E N city. I know that this year finds many of our people, and many of our churches, with real financial challenges. If we merely give our surplus, we might not give much. However, we are called to sacrificial giving, and God is glorified through sacrificial giving.”

Amy Cordova, who serves as Oklahoma Baptists missions and women’s ministry partner, said, “The dollars raised through the offering furthers outreach ministries across Oklahoma, providing greater opportunities to share Jesus with others in our own community.”

A popular addition to the SMO emphasis in recent years has been the children’s missions education information. Cordova said, “In the Missions Education Activity Sheets, we added conversation starters and additional activities to help children of all ages understand the importance of giving together to support mission work in Oklahoma. The printable activity sheets provide mission education at home or at church.”

“Not only is the offering a time to give together,” Cordova added, “it’s also a time to tell what God is doing through Oklahoma Baptists. Social media is a great outlet to share about our partnership in advancing the Gospel.”

For more information, or to download resources, visit oklahomabaptists.org/state-missions-offering.

MISSIONS VOLUNTEER TIES

OPPORTUN

OKLAHOMA

On-going opportunities for volunteers: DaySpring Villa, a faith-based shelter for women who are victims of domestic violence or human sexual trafficking and their children, Sand Springs— Susan Cox, 918/245-4075 Hospitality House of Tulsa provides family centered lodging, emotional and spiritual support for family members of patients traveling to Tulsa for medical care—918/694-8888 Hospitality House of Oklahoma provides for the physical, spiritual needs of families with loved ones incarcerated in McAlester. Lodging available—918/429-0142 OK Jail & Prison Ministry needs volunteers to go into the jails and share the Gospel each week— 405/917-2242 or ojpm@ojpm.org

I

DISASTER RELIEF

Training:

Orientation and Credentialing (Training) Dates for 2020: Sept. 12—Owasso, First, 13307 E. 96th St. N. 74055 Oct.17—Newcastle, First, 1650 N. Main, 73065 Nov. 7—Madill, First, 210 S. 1st St., 73446

Pray for Oklahoma Missionary Wyatt Hebblethwaite Pray for Wyatt Hebblethwaite, who with his wife Rachael serves on the staff of the Baptist Collegiate Ministries at the University of Oklahoma.

Pray for Oklahoma Missionary Noble Paddyaker Pray for Noble and his wife Cathrann, who as collegiate missionaries work with college students at the University of Oklahoma.

For Powerpoint slides of Prayer Guide, visit www.oklahomabaptists.org/cp

Missions & ministry | August 13, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

5

Road Show wrap-up: Falls Creek events reach students with the Gospel /// PREVIEWED ON COVER

1

>> by Chris Doyle

MANAGING EDITOR

Even when the greatest plans cannot happen, God can still make Himself known.

The summer student weeks at Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center is an annual occurrence when Oklahoma Baptists work together to advance the Gospel. However, this annual occurrence did not happened as planned this year.

Instead, God worked through a different event that was quickly planned yet done in the spirit of a Falls Creek experience. Fourteen Falls Creek Road Shows made Falls Creek become regional, as the events made stops in different sections of the state.

“I thought the whole Road Show experience was really positive on a number of levels,” said Todd Sanders, Falls Creek program director. “All of us coming together as Oklahoma Baptists made a well-rounded event a success.”

Sanders credited associational leaders and church leaders who worked with the many Oklahoma Baptist partners, including Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM) and Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU), for the great results from the Road Shows.

“From my seat, I couldn’t be more pleased with people’s investment and involvement,” Sanders said. “Everyone was willing to make something like this happen.”

Road Show results Sanders reported 426 total decisions were recorded from all 14 Road Shows. The decisions included 120 professions of faith in Christ, 107 calls to ministry and 199 other spiritual decisions. Total attendance for all 14 Road Shows was 3,240 students, church leaders and Oklahoma Baptists ministry partners.

“We wanted to platform the Gospel and offer an invitation,” Sanders said.

“We also wanted to offer students 3 an opportunity to connect with missions and ministry.”

Sanders said what helped students answer the call to ministry was hearing Caleb Freeman’s testimony. The 19-year-old, along with his father Jeremy Freeman, pastor of Newcastle, First, shared how he miraculously recovered from a severe car accident in December 2017.

The Road Shows also shared a video featuring two Oklahoma Baptists who are now serving in international missions. Brian Baldwin, student evangelism and missions partner for Oklahoma Baptist, gave a missions mobilization emphasis at each Road Show.

“Through all of these (presentations), we have seen many students express that they feel called to some kind of ministry,” Sanders said.

‘No matter what happens, the Gospel doesn’t stop’ Sanders was pleased with how many students responded during the Road Show. He said the events did not observe a conventional invitation time, like

6

what would be done during a Falls Creek camp week. This was changed in order to maintain social distancing protocol due to COVID-19 precautions.

Instead, church leaders counseled students with their church groups, and the leaders turned in decision cards to student ministry partners.

“The important work happens after the event as our churches help these students sort through these decisions and help them grow through them,” Sanders said. “It’s encouraging to see that because when we proclaim the Gospel, we offer an invitation, and students respond. It’s just a powerful reminder that no matter what happens, the Gospel doesn’t stop. We can’t do camp the normal way, but we can still proclaim the Gospel, and when you do that and offer an invitation, people will respond.”

2

>> PHOTOS: 1) KATIE GILBERT; 2) CHRIS DOYLE; 3) PROVIDED 1) The final Road Show at Claremore, First; 2) State BCM leaders Cris Lowery, left, and Chad Coleman, right, toss T-shirts, as Todd Sanders, middle, opens the Road Show at Jenks, First; 3) Miranda, left, was baptized on Aug. 2.

She made a profession of faith in Christ at the Road Show in Hardesty.

How it began Falls Creek Road Shows were a result of making contingency plans. Back in March, when the pandemic was beginning to affect the whole country, Sanders and other group leaders, as well as Hance Dilbeck, executive director-treasurer for Oklahoma Baptists, and members of executive leadership group began planning what to do if the Falls Creek summer weeks could not be observed.

“Dr. Dilbeck presented the idea of the Road Show, and that is what stuck,” Sanders said. “I don’t think we referred to it necessarily as ‘Road Show’ at the time or even knew what that meant.”

On May 18, Oklahoma Baptists made the call they didn’t want to make, which was not to have Falls Creek at camp. Leadership started planning how to do Road Show, as well as offer Virtual Falls Creek for interested church groups. Virtual Falls Creek, Sanders said, includes group Bible studies, sermon and worship set videos, breakout video content and other resources to help churches have a student camp event. Resources are still available to do Virtual Falls Creek at oklahomabaptists.org/fallscreek2020 tists.org/fallscreek2020.

“Within a week, we had a lot of details laid down with locations, production, staging and personalities,” Sanders said. “Again, this is a testimony of the fact that people were willing to jump in no matter what and say, ‘Yes, let’s do it.’”

Through the middle of June, leadership worked on finalizing the Road Show, making sure churches and associations were ready to host. Sanders also made sure each event was responding properly to COVID-19 and reopening protocols.

Graduates recognized at Road Show One special segment that happened at each Road Show featured a video with messages to graduating high school seniors from well-known Oklaho-

August 13, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Features

ma Baptists and Falls Creek personalities.

U.S. Senator James Lankford, former Miss America Lauren Nelson-Faram, North American Mission Board leader Shane Pruitt, as well as state pastors and Falls Creek worship leaders and speakers gave encouraging messages for the Class of 2020.

“I wanted to find ways to make the Road Show more meaningful for graduates,” Sanders said.

During a regular camp week, an emphasis is made with BCM and OBU for graduates, preparing them for their next step in life.

Road Show missions offering report Through the 14 Road Shows, participants gave $6,662.76 to a missions offering which supports Baptist Global Relief efforts with Venezuelan refugees. The offering also will support GoStudents mission projects in 2021.

What others are saying about Road Show “The Road Show was amazing,” said Joshua Henderson from Westville, First. “It meant so much to me and my students. We had several students who want to rededicate their lives to Christ, get baptized and even one profession of faith.”

Joey Zodrow of Collinsville, First said, “The Road Show was absolutely fantastic! It was exactly what our group needed to lift us out of the doldrums of the pandemic. Thank you so much for making these tour stops happen.”

Mike Luster, pastor of Minco, First, attended the Road Show at Lawton, First with his two high school daughters. “We all thoroughly enjoyed it,” Luster said. “My girls said, ‘It was so good to worship with my peers.’ As a dad, I appreciated worshiping Jesus with my kids.”

Danny, an 8th grade student, made a profession of faith in Christ at the Road Show at Claremore, First. He said, “I knew I needed a relationship with Jesus. At the Road Show, I realized I couldn’t afford not to have a relationship with Jesus.”

Sanders concluded, “The Road Show sums up what we are as Oklahoma Baptists. It’s God’s people doing God’s work, being faithful, willing and cooperative. A project like the Road Show provides an example of this.”

Let the little children ‘quarantine’: Engaging kids with the Gospel during a pandemic /// PREVIEWED ON COVER >> by Hannah Hanzel

ART PROJEC TS LEADER

Children’s ministry is hard. From early Sunday morning drop-off to late Wednesday night pick up, the church nursery and children’s ministry classrooms are constantly teeming with children of all ages. When the church halls and sanctuary are filled with the sound of kids’ laughter and chattering, there are signs of life in church. In the midst of this pandemic, however, there has been a deep lacking of those joyful sounds in the building.

Oklahoma Baptist children’s ministers and directors across the state have been flexing their creative muscles in order to reach the children that would normally be down the hall. Since quarantine started, these church leaders have discovered new ways to connect with children over social media, the phone, in the car and more. Their reach goes to church members’ children and neighborhood kids, as well as unchurched families.

Jenks, First Associate Pastor of Children Keith Badgett drew a socially-distanced crowd with the church’s drive-thru Awana Ceremony in the church parking lot in May. Attendees would pre-register and then arrive to take part in the ceremony, honoring their children’s accomplishments in Awana scripture memorization. In-car activities included Chinese fire drills, honking their car horns, and waving out of the windows and sun rooves.

“It was actually a lot of fun!” Badgett said of the ceremony. “We called each child’s name, and they literally drove around for their awards.”

Many other churches have had to think outside the box when it comes to children’s ministry in the summer. For McAlester, First; Skiatook, First; and Oklahoma City, Quail Springs, thinking outside the box meant getting outside the church walls. Both Skiatook, First and McAlester, First decided to move their church’s Vacation Bible School (VBS) to their towns’ parks to accommodate COVID-19 restrictions.

1

2

>> PHOTOS: PROVIDED 1) McAlester, First, along with other churches across the state, managed to create a unique version of VBS by utilizing local parks as a venue, drawing in children that otherwise might not enter a church building; 2) Bethany, Council Road’s children’s ministers Sarah Hagar and Dondra Lonsdale created and posted a series of children’s devotionals for families to watch together during quarantine.

Carrie Wood, McAlester, First’s director of childhood ministries, noted the change and what good came from having to be more dynamic and flexible as a ministry.

“The best thing about it was that we had some kids come to VBS that frequented the park,” Wood said. “I’m not sure they would have come if it was in our church building.”

The McAlester, First children managed to raise nearly $2,500 in offerings during VBS, a record collection for the church’s children’s ministry. The offering went to a local non-profit that provides meals at no cost for children in the community.

Oklahoma City, Quail Spring’s Children’s Pastor Mark Jones discovered a new way to reach kids outside the church walls as well. After assembling teams of children’s ministry volunteers and workers, Jones mapped out four parks in their church’s area. The teams then went into those communities to offer free ice cream as a means through which to connect to local families.

Along with these churches, many more children’s ministry directors and ministers went to great lengths to provide creative and meaningful ways to connect with children and their families. Idabel, First assembled “buckets full of fun” for children in their community. The buckets each contained items for

crafts, Bible study, and a snack time. Bethany, Council Road created and posted kid-friendly devotionals on social media for parents to share with their children. Minister to Children Sarah Hagar and Minister to Preschool Dondra Lonsdale spearheaded Bethany, Council Road’s efforts in keeping the children connected and engaged online during quarantine.

Many children have been forced this year to face bigger-than-life issues such as death, isolation, confinement, sickness, social unrest and an overall sense of change and fear. The church is engaging with these little minds and hearts in ways that meet them where they are, providing a way for clarity, love and hope.

Charlie Gatton, childhood ministry partner for Oklahoma Baptists, has been encouraged and impressed with the childhood leaders across Oklahoma.

“In true servant fashion,” Gatton said, “children’s ministers put on their creative caps and made changes to everything. Nothing has looked like we planned it this year, but children in neighborhoods and communities have still heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ despite our plans being changed. I know that God has used what we had to offer to show His glory!”

To discover helpful resources for Oklahoma Baptists children’s ministry, visit oklahomabaptists.org/ childhood.

Indian Falls Creek reaches across North America with virtual camp week >> by Jennifer Barnett

CHAIRMAN OF IFC BOARD OF DIREC TORS

As a camp for the entire family, Indian Falls Creek (IFC) continues to strengthen as a family. Each summer, churches and individuals from across North America plan around the week, anticipating the fun, fellowship and encouragement they receive from the recreation, classes and services.

Visiting with friends and spending time with their local church families is a bonding experience. Many campers have grown up attending IFC from birth, experiencing the week as a child alongside siblings and cousins and now as aunts, uncles, parents and grandparents.

The generations of families attending camp together is part of the special experience of IFC. The 2020 virtual experience was no exception.

The Indian Falls Creek Board of Directors took up the call for spiritual awakening last fall as plans for the camp began. Our prayer was to increase the reach of IFC across North America, which includes Native Americans and First Nations peoples in Canada. When the pandemic spread to the U.S., the Board began to plan, seeing the possibility of reaching more people in Indian Country, via a virtual IFC camp.

A long-time prayer of the Board has been to expand IFC beyond one week of camp. With more than 50 volunteer board members representing churches and ministries from across Oklahoma and neighboring states, IFC has a broad reach and strong organizational platform from which to develop its ministry.

When the official word that on-ground Falls Creek camps were cancelled, the IFC Board went into overdrive to enact plans for a virtual camp for the entire family. An IFC app centralized access to

classes for children, youth, young adults and adults, as well as children’s church and the evening service.

In addition to expanding its reach throughout Indian Country and beyond, the vision includes adding content throughout the year that will encourage discipleship and leadership.

The content will include Bible study and address the Native context, which could be helpful beyond Indian Country.

The largest number of Native congregations are in Oklahoma, many of which do not have pastoral leadership. Emerson Falls, Native American ministry partner for Oklahoma Baptists, reported an average of 35 percent of Native American churches are without a pastor.

Thus, the further hope is that additional content will assist churches that lack strong leadership and individuals without mentorship.

A month before camp, and with plans well underway, the IFC Board received news that annual support from Oklahoma Baptists would be 30 percent of the original amount. IFC was grateful for the funds, knowing many other ministries also faced this reduction. Prayers continued, and a campaign was immediately launched to raise additional funds, with generous donations coming from individuals and churches part of the IFC family, in addition to associations and organizations.

Camp Pastor Mike Keahbone delivered six evening messages that challenged Indian Country to spiritual awakening. Keahbone’s messages addressed Christian awakening and presented the

Gospel. Readers are invited to view and share these messages and the classes.

Across its programming platforms, IFC had a daily average of 8,000 views. Individuals, groups of friends, families and small groups from churches watched classes and services together, so this number does not measure an exact number of views. IFC social media was filled with pictures and messages that showed families and friends enjoying the services and participating in the virtual events together.

The sting of COVID-19 was felt late in the week.

IFC Recreation Director Victor Bear and his sister Loretta both went to be with the Lord, keenly reminding us of our eternal hope.

The pandemic did not limit IFC ministry but, rather, adjusted and grew it. This opportunity for change and for learning to trust in the Lord more fully strengthened our Board as brothers and sisters serving alongside one another and encouraged our desire to reach further into Indian Country.

IFC issued a brief survey to estimate the impact of virtual IFC on our Native churches, which includes questions regarding decisions made on the local level and expanding content. We encouraged a leader from each congregation to complete it.

The IFC Board calls on Oklahoma Indian congregations to pray for the financial provisions of Oklahoma Baptists, for we are all in this together, and that our virtual ministry will continue to reach people here and across North America.

For more information, visit indianfallscreek.org.

Features | August 13, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

7

O O L B OX CHURCH T

PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N

BVC honors Bill Pierce’s 30 years of ministry

ASSIFIEDS C>>L by Jason Davis

BVC DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Baptist Village Communities (BVC) President Bill Pierce has experienced many changes in the field of aging services. This year marks 30 years of Pierce’s faithful service with Baptist Village Communities.

C E Sat BVC in 1990, the ministry O Iarrived V he When was facing both financial and logistical challenges.

Pierce was instrumental in leading BVC to successfully navigate these difficult times. Under his leadership, Baptist Village Communities has thrived like never before.

BVC is now the largest not-for-profit provider of senior housing services in Oklahoma, serving 2,300 people daily through 12 Villages, three home health care offices and a medical equipment provider. BVC employs nearly 800 team members statewide.

Pierce has transformed BVC into a leader in shaping the future of aging services. He has helped change the culture in regards to negative mindsets and perspectives that hinder senior living communities’ reputation.

Different terminology is one of the ways BVC strives to alter these perceptions. Instead of wings or halls, it’s neighborhoods. Rather than activities, it’s life enrichment. BVC doesn’t have employees, but Friends Team members. This positive vernacular promotes resident dignity and honors those whom BVC serves every day.

Pierce has been the catalyst for this intentional culture change and has earned the respect of countless Friends Team members, residents, families and peers.

“There’s no doubt that God gifted and called Dr. Pierce to lead BVC through some very challenging times, not the least of which is the current pandemic we are facing,” said Steve Thomas, BVC senior

E S & C U LT U R W E N president—operations.

vice “While he has great vision for the future, he is always mindful of others and compassionate in recognizing their needs, both great and small. He balances the strength of an effective leader with the humility of a servant, but always gives credit to God for His faithfulness. Somehow, he manages to be both the president of BVC and our friend at the same time. Personally, it has been one of life’s greatest blessings for me to have the opportunity to learn from and serve with Dr. Pierce day by day for 30 years.”

Pierce graduated from Muskogee High School in 1972. He earned economics and business administration degrees from Bacone College and Northeastern State University. He received his master of education degree from Southwestern Seminary. In 2008, Pierce earned his doctor of philosophy degree from Louisiana Baptist University.

Pierce was named by AARP Oklahoma as one of 50 Oklahomans making a difference in the state. In 2014, he was recognized by Northeastern State University as a distinguished alumnus.

Pierce earned his Health Services Executive qualification through the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards. This broad-based credential is designed to allow the nation’s most talented administrators to practice along the continuum of health services and supports. Pierce is only the second licensed administrator in Oklahoma to receive this designation.

>> PHOTO: PROVIDED Bill

Pierce, with his wife Susan, is celebrating 30 years of ministry with Baptist Village Communities.

Pierce has served two terms as president of LeadingAge Oklahoma, the state association for not-forprofit senior living communities. He has been on the board of directors for LeadingAge, the national association, serving as treasurer in 2007 and 2008.

He currently serves as an advisor to the board of directors for The Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma.

Pierce was appointed by Governor Mary Fallin and leaders of the Oklahoma House of Representatives and Senate to serve on the Oklahoma Long-Term Care Services and Supports Advisory Committee. He was elected chair of the committee in 2019.

It is evident that Bill Pierce is called by God to lead this ministry. Baptist Village Communities is eternally grateful and blessed to have enjoyed three decades of faithful, humble leadership from him.

Literacy Missions honors two participants

OKC, Wilmont Place has ‘Christmas in July’ mission emphasis

Pastor Shawn Nichols reported Oklahoma City, Wilmont Place collected nearly $6,000 for the church’s “Christmas in July” offering, which is recognized as a “mid-year Lottie Moon offering” to support the International Mission Board. >> PHOTO: PROVIDED

Resolutions requested All resolutions for consideration during the 2020 Oklahoma Baptists’ Annual Meeting, other than those generated by the committee itself, must be received by Resolutions Committee Chairman Matt Brown no later than Aug. 27. Brown is the pastor of Norman, Bethel.

Those submitting resolutions are asked to provide a copy to the Oklahoma Baptists Executive Office. Resolutions may be mailed to Resolutions Committee, c/o Pastor Matt Brown, Bethel Baptist Church, 1717 W Lindsey St, Norman, OK 73069, with copies addressed to Resolutions Committee, Oklahoma Baptists, 3800 North May Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73112. Resolutions sent by e-mail should indicate Resolutions Committee in the subject line and be addressed to matt@bbcnorman.com and lwarren@oklahomabaptists.org. Resolutions may also be submitted online through Aug. 27 at oklahomabaptists.org/business.

8

On July 16, Dawn Goodwin from Oklahoma City, Quail Springs, second left, and Sharon Hanes from Mustang, First, second right, completed the Tutoring Children and Youth (TCY) Workshop and received their certificates from workshop leaders Cheryl Wilkinson, left, and Barbara Marlett, right.

Dawn and Sharon were the first participants in Oklahoma to complete one of the new Hybrid Literacy Missions Workshops. This new hybrid training option is now available for not only TCY, but also English as a Second Language and Adult Reading and Writing. With this option, participants complete most of the training online at their own pace by a given deadline, and then participate in a four-hour live, interactive session to complete their certification.

The standard 11-hour live Literacy Missions Workshops will still be offered after the COVID-19 limitations have ended, but the new hybrid trainings will provide added options for those who can’t attend the standard workshops due to location or schedule.

Literacy Missions ministries are an excellent outreach into your community. Find more information at oklahomabaptists/evangelism/literacy.

August 13, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | People & Church News

PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N

O O L B OX CHURCH T

Historical Commission votes DS LT U R E CLASSIFIE NE WS & CU to discontinue Society >> by Staff Members of the Oklahoma Baptist HisO I C E S (OBHC) have voted toricalVCommission unanimously to discontinue its auxiliary institution, The Oklahoma Baptist Historical Society (OBHS).

“We take this action with much sadness, but it has become painfully obvious that the members of the society do not have an interest in continuing with the organization,” said OBHC Chair Richard McCullough, Perkins, Immanuel.

McCullough listed several factors leading to the decision: lack of interest in the organization, including non-existent participation in annual OBHS meetings and lack of support through the submission of annual dues. Other considerations were the savings in the cost of printing and mailing the OBHC’s semi-annual publication, The Oklahoma Baptist Chronicle.

“We understand this will be of concern to those who purchased lifetime memberships in the OBHS, but feel that this is the time to discontinue the Society,” McCullough said. “In the past three years, there have been a total of only three members or visitors who have attended one of the annual OBHS meetings.”

As to the status of the Chronicle, McCullough said, “The Oklahoma Baptist Chronicle will continue to be compiled by Historical Secretary and Director of History Bob Nigh, but no longer will be printed and mailed. The Chronicle will be posted to the history section of the Oklahoma Baptists’ website in the future. The Spring 2020 issue already has been uploaded to the site at oklahomabaptists.org/about.

“I am thankful for the legacy of the Oklahoma Baptist Historical Society and join chairman McCullough in the sadness of this announcement,” said James L. Swain,

associate executive director of church relations for Oklahoma Baptists. “I appreciate the work of our Oklahoma Baptist Historical Commission and Historical Secretary Bob Nigh. I am confident they will continue to serve as faithful stewards of Oklahoma Baptist history and move us effectively toward the digital preservation, recording and reporting of that history in the days that are ahead.”

The OBHS was created on Nov. 14, 1956 during an organizational meeting held at Beverly’s Hideaway restaurant at NW 52nd St. and Santa Fe Ave. in Oklahoma City. It was established to protect the interests of Oklahoma Baptists in the materials of their history, their discovery, collection and preservation, and not for any profit. Those ideals and aims will be continued through the auspices of the nine-member OBHC and the historical secretary.

“We will continue to stress the significance and importance of Oklahoma Baptist history and provide research and resources for those who are interested,” Nigh said. “That includes the collection and preservation of historical items to be housed in the Gaskin Baptist Archives at Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee.”

The historical secretary also will continue to assist churches in researching their highlights and history and developing appropriate observances for significant anniversaries and other milestones. That includes the creation and presentation of certificates to the church and members on behalf of the Historical Commission.

The OBHC also will continue the tradition of presenting awards at the annual meetings of Oklahoma Baptists to deserving Oklahoma Baptists and churches, including church history and distinguished service awards, and induction of new honorees into the Oklahoma Baptist Hall of Fame.

EWS CHURCH N PEOPLE IN THE NEWS DODD DEATH. Harry K. Dodd, 92, died July 22 in Owasso. Funeral serA First. He vices were JulyH 25O atM Checotah, A L K O E H T was called to be director V Eof Falls Creek A R C Hin I1979 T I S TAssembly and served B A PBaptist 14 years. During this time God used him to make major physical improvements to the camp grounds which included up-grading the water system, motel accommodations, the plaza and buildings, medical clinic, fire station and athletic fields. Dodd began his pastoral ministry in 1955, serving a church in Ohio. He also pastored churches in Oklahoma, including Oktaha, Checotah, Mounds and Depew. After his retirement from Falls Creek, he began a trucker’s ministry at Checotah, First. He was an active member of Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief. A U.S. Navy veteran, Dodd served during World War II and Korean War on the USS Juneau and USS Essex. As a young sailor in 1945, he made a profession of faith in Christ. He lived out his final years as a resident of Baptist Village of Owasso.

He was prededed in death by his wife Peggy of nearly 70 years and their daughter Judy Tinsley. He is survived by his daughters Nancy Milam and Becky Carpenter, seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

CHURCH STAFF CHANGES JACK BROWN resigned as pastor of Randlett, First.

DAVID BROWNING is pastor of Talihina, Buffalo Valley.

RODNEY CAMPBELL is interim pastor at Lawton, Central.

DENNIS DAWSON is interim pastor at Fletcher, First.

PATRICK DUNCAN is minister of music and family ministry at Lawton, First West.

NICK GARLAND is interim pastor of Tahlequah, First.

TROY GEORGE is pastor of Poteau, First.

DARRIN GOODE is pastor of Albion, First.

KEVIN HASELTON is pastor of Lawton, Memorial Indian.

MIKE KEAHBONE is pastor of Lawton, First.

MICKEY MILLER resigned as pastor of Grandfield, First.

SPENCE MCCONNELL is pastor of Wellston, First.

CHARLES ROBERTSON is pastor of Sparks, First.

GARY SIGLER is youth pastor at Albion, First.

JEREMY TOOMBS is music minister at Lawton, Calvary.

J.P. WILLIAMS K Uis pastor of Stonewall, First.

U D OZOLLARS SFRANKIE is minister of youth at Elgin, Crossroads.

TO SHARE NEWS, PLEASE EMAIL ALL INFO TO BAPTISTMESSENGER@OKBAPTIST.NET

RCH WORD SEA

Okmulgee, Calvary to celebrate centennial, Sept. 19-20

Note: The word clues for the Word Search are chosen by the Messenger staff, while the puzzles and letters surrounding the clues are computer-generated at random.

Okmulgee, Calvary will celebrate its 100th anniversary Sept. 19-20.

The church began as a Sunday School class meeting in a home and the members were moved to begin a new church in 1920. Calvary has had 35 pastors over the years, with Pastor Richard Manning now serving.

Centennial events include a special celebration service from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Sept. 19, featuring worship, with games and lunch to follow. The celebration will conclude with morning worship on Sun. Sept. 20, with a few of the former pastors speaking.

Awana Badgett Bible Box Camp

Children Communities Coronavirus Creativity Hagar

Innovative Jones Kid Ministry Neighborhoods

Oklahoma Outside Park Precautions Relentless

Restrictions School Summer Vacation Wood

People & Church News | August 13, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

9

PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N

O O L B OX T H C R U H C

12 things I hope help me be a DS I CLASSIF E better preacher and teacher but they keep me informed about things SOUTHEASTERN SEMINARY DEAN OF like names of people I should recognize, DOCTORAL STUDIES, CHUCKLAWLESS.COM movies I need to see, books I need to read CES and preaching heroes I need to Ihear.

VO EDITOR’S NOTE: The following article was 7. Listen to sermons while I exercise. I previously featured on chucklawless.com. generally listen to well-known preachers, but I’ve recently begun listening to I don’t claim to be a great sermons by pastors in our local preacher, but I love to study area. That way, I know them and proclaim the Word. Bebetter, pray for them and their church, and learn low are some things— from them. some that may be surprising—I do that I hope 8. Take at least one mishelp me with preaching sion trip annually. On the and teaching. mission field, I’m reminded of our gift of having God’s 1. Regularly exercise. A preacher who is not taking Word in our language—and care of himself likely won’t stories of God’s work around have the energy he needs to the world make encouraging, preach, and his lack of physical challenging sermon illustrations. discipline might hurt his witness.

9. Watch at least one TED Talk 2. Watch the History Channel. Learn- weekly. This one’s a newer one for me. ing history will not only connect you with These talks are informative, and the speakchurch members who share that same pas- ers pack a lot into a short amount of time. sion, but it will also provide you ready-made Learning to do the latter will improve our preaching. preaching illustrations.

10. Read at least one book on preach3. Read books on writing. Preaching and writing are similar tasks. If you want to ing or communication each year. For develop a strong sermon introduction, for a list of books our preaching professors example, study about using introductions at Southeastern Seminary recommend, in writing. The book I’m currently reading is check out baptistmessenger.com/12-bookson-preaching. Currently I’m reading Alec Le Peau’s “Write Better.”

4. Do a daily crossword puzzle. It Motyer’s book, “Preaching.”

11. Watch or read the news each day. doesn’t take long to complete one, and it provides opportunity to increase my vocab- A well-informed preacher is often a better ulary, review history and learn new facts. preacher, especially to others who pay atto what’s happening around the Seldom do I not learn something that I can tention T H EPlus, the news offers material for serF R O Mworld. use in preaching.

B LO G and prayer emphases.

ERS illustrations 5. Journal or write a daily devotion, R D S L I N Gmon O W 12. Secure a group of prayer partners and send it to someone. Writing a devotion requires clarity, conciseness and appli- who pray regularly for me—with particcation—all good goals for preachers. Send- ular focus on my preaching. Something ing the devotion to someone is a way of just happens in your preparation and your accountability (and witness, if you send it to preaching when you know others are interceding for you. a non-believer).

6. Ask students to keep me informed AY Sof these listed ideas might most SWhich E V A D about culture. Our worlds are different, help you? >> by Chuck Lawless

BA PT ISTS OKLAHOMA H IG H L I GH T E C R U O S E R

Name: ______________________________________

Conversation Starter: Who is Edna McMillan? Why is the State Missions Offering named after her? Visit StateMissionsOK.org to learn more about Edna McMillan.

E R LC CO M M I T T E E

STATE MISSIONS OFFERING

Oklahoma Baptists’ Ethics and Religious Liberty Committee monitors key moral and ethical issues in the culture.

To learn more about the vital work of the ERLC committee, visit:

This Edna McMillan State Missions Offering is a very tangible expression of the common mission we have to advance the Gospel in our state. Visit the site below for helpful, free resources.

OklahomaBaptists.org/erlc/about-erlc

OklahomaBaptists.org/smo

Additional Activity: Edna lived in Bristow, Oklahoma. Can you find Bristow on the map?

Now look for your city on the map! Take time to pray for your city.

Oklahoma State Missions Offering Activity Page | StateMissionsOK.org

OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS’ OFFERING

Check back with the highlight every issue to learn more about the resources available to every SBC church!

10

NE

NARRATIVE-DRIVEN GOSPEL >> CALEB MOORE

One of the major issues we face YinSthis declining soA S E V A D ciety is the narrative-driven media. Instead of simply relaying information, both sides have a narrative they want to tell, and the only information they give out is meant to further that narrative.

These selective narratives are in competition with one another, which ultimately divides andSpits people A P T I S T informaMA against each ButOnot all B narrative-driven KLAH Oother.

T church is H L I GHthe tion is bad. In fact it R may be something H IG E C U O S E R greatly lacking.

Just like we see with popular news channels, there are often selective narratives preached by well-intentioned pastors every Sunday. The overarching narrative of the Bible isn’t about your personal success, your health, wealth or even about your finances or marriage.

These individual topics appear throughout the Bible, but they are not the main message of the Bible. Our role in Scripture is not as the hero. If anything, we are the antagonist.

The full narrative of Scripture is too beautiful to be left behind. It gives context to all the smaller stories we read. It protects us from thinking it is all about us, and reminds us that it’s all about God.

To read the rest of Caleb’s blog visit, baptistmessenger.com/narrative-driven-gospel

F RO M T H E E R S B LO G G N I L S D R O To read W more blogs with Jesus in mind, visit www.baptistmessenger.com/blog

D AV E S AY S CONCERNED ABOUT COLLEGE

BA PT ISTS A M O H A L OK H IG H L I GH T R ESOURCE

My City: ___________________

Edna McMillan

OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS’ ERLC

F RO M T H E G E R S B LO G C U LT U R E WO R D S L I N WS &

August 13, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Church Toolbox

Dear Dave, My husband and I are about to start Baby Step 5. We want to save money for college to help our children, but we’re a little worried about starting a 529 Plan and being penalized if we pull the money out for trade school or they don’t finish their studies. What do you think we should do?

—Dani Dear Dani, You’d only be taxed on the growth, not what you put into the plan. And you’d be taxed on the growth anyway if you put it into something else, so there’s no reason not to go with a 529 Plan.

The truth is a 529 will work for a lot of trade schools. It may not be accepted if they do a straight-up apprenticeship, but it’s fine for a course of study at a vo-tech school.

Now, if you don’t use all of what’s in your 529 for education, the portion that goes unused will be taxed. You’ll want a chunk of cash sitting in your 529, enough to make a difference in their educational goals, but you don’t want to overfund it.

—Dave The views expressed by Dave Ramsey do not necessarily reflect those of the Baptist Messenger and do not constitute legal financial advice.

CLASSIFIE

LT U R E NE WS & CU

DS

Rate: $1.00 per word, $25.00 per issue, minimum • Deadline: Two weeks prior to publication. Submit a classified ad at www.baptistmessenger.com/advertise on the Classifieds Form with references to: Chelsea at cbc.chels@gmail.com.

CLASSIFIEDS COLOR KEY: PA S TOR YOUTH MUS I C

>> F/T PASTOR: First Baptist Church Hobart, Oklahoma is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Send resume & cover letter to: First Baptist Church Hobart, Attn: Pastor Search Committee, fbchobart@att.net or P.O. 721 Hobart, OK 73651.

VOICES

J OB L ISTIN G V EH IC L E M ISC.

>> F/T PASTOR: Eastside Baptist church in Sallisaw, is accepting resumes for F/T Pastor. We do have a parsonage that is available. Please send resumes to: Eastside Baptist Church, 1120 E. Ida Ave., Sallisaw, OK 74955.

EMPLOYM ENT >> P/T YOUTH MINISTER: Criner Baptist Church Lindsay OK. The church is in the Purcell, Lindsay & Dibble area.

Contact Pastor Bill Irwin at (405) 527-9029 or send resumes to: Criner Baptist Church, P.O. Box 645, Purcell, OK 73080. >> P/T CHILDREN’S DIRECTOR: The Village Baptist personnel com is accepting resumes for a Christ honoring, loving individual to join our staff as P/T Children’s Director.

If God has called you to Children’s Ministry, email your resume to: vbcokcpersonnelcommitte@yahoo.com. >> P/T MUSIC LEADER: Crown Heights Baptist is seeking a P/T Music Leader to lead blended worship.

Send inquiries to: 4802 N. Western, OKC, OK 73118 or to: jrcekc@yahoo.com. >> BI/VO CHILDREN’S MINISTER: Anadarko FBC is seeking a BI/VO Children’s Minister. Please email your resume to: fbcanadarko@sbcglobal.net or mail to: FBC Search Committee, 700 West Petree Rd, Anadarko, OK 73005. If questions, contact Pastor Lynn Bellamy at (405) 664-1507. >> DIRECTOR OF MISSIONS: Muskogee Baptist Association is taking resumes for Director of Missions. Send Resume to: Muskogee Baptist Association, 630 N. C Street, Muskogee, OK 74403. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Parkview Baptist in Duncan, OK is seeking a BI/VO Pastor. Please send your resume to: mulsix@hotmail.com. >> P/T OR BI/VO WORSHIP LEADER: FBC Hammon, OK is seeking a Worship Leader to lead our church body in a blended worship environment. Send resumes to: scott_showers@cargill.com or FBC, P.O. Box 307, Hammon, OK 73650 C/O Worship Search Committee. >> P/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: Dupree Baptist, a small rural church at Vinita, OK seeks a Pastor for Sunday services.

Please send resumes to: Dupree Pastor Search, P.O. Box 1100, Vinita, OK 74301. >> F/T PASTOR: Sharon First Baptist Church in Sharon, Oklahoma is prayerfully seeking God’s choice for F/T Pastor. Please email resumes to: fbc.sharon@yahoo.com or mail your resume to: Sharon First Baptist Church, 24008 State Highway 34, Sharon, Oklahoma 73857. >> F/T PASTOR: Central Baptist Church in Central High, OK is seeking a F/T Pastor. We are a rural church looking for a God fearing man to lead our congregation. Send resume

>> F/T YOUTH MINISTER: Memorial Heights Baptist, Claremore, OK, is prayerfully seeking the man called by God to serve as our F/T Youth Minister. Please send resumes to: memorialheights@sbcglobal.net or to: 1500 W. Will Rogers Blvd., Claremore, OK 74017. >> F/T WORSHIP PASTOR: F/T Worship Pastor position, Woodland Acres Baptist Church is a church in the heart of Tulsa with a history of great music, worship & drama. Resumes will be received online at: worship_pastor_search@wabc.org. >> F/T PASTOR: Mooreland First Baptist church is seeking a F/T Pastor. Please send resumes to: P.O. Box 1000, Mooreland, OK 73852 or smithco@pldi.net. >> HIGH SCHOOL PASTOR: FBC Madill is seeking someone who is called & motivated to reach/disciple high school students (9-12). Tremendous opportunity to use God-given gifts to make an eternal impact! Email resume to: staff@fbcmadill.org. >> F/T YOUTH PASTOR: FBC Lone Grove is prayerfully seeking a spiritually mature, F/T Youth Pastor. Must have a heart for community & connecting with others. Please send resume to: fbclonegrove@yahoo.com. >> F/T YOUTH MINISTER: Morris Memorial Baptist Church in Ada is seeking a F/T Youth Minister who is passionate about reaching youth & families with the Gospel. Send resumes to: 16121 County Road 3540, Ada, OK 74820 or email to: david@mmbcada.org. >> F/T WORSHIP & MEDIA MINISTER: Seeking a F/T Worship & Media Minister. This position will also include overseeing the technical side of audio/visual & media. See: www.uhbc.church for more details or call (405) 372-2744. >> F/T PASTOR: FBC Forgan, OK is prayerfully seeking God’s man. Send resume to: P.O. Box 9 Forgan, OK 73938.

More info see: forganfbc.com or call (580) 461-0857. >> DIRECTOR OF MISSIONS: LeFlore Baptist Association is prayerfully seeking a new Director of Missions. If interested, we are accepting resumes until Sept. 30th. Please send ATTN: DOM Search to: rmarrow@lefloreassociation.org, or 106 Flanagan St., STE A, Poteau, OK 74953. >> P/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: Gum Springs Baptist Church, Siloam Springs, AR is seeking a P/T or BI/VO Pastor. Send resumes to: Pastor Search Committee, Gum Springs Baptist Church, P.O. Box 1472, Siloam Springs, AR 72761. Resumes should arrive before September 1, 2020.

>> BI/VO PASTOR: Golden Baptist Church in southeastern Oklahoma is prayerfully seeking a BI/VO Pastor. If interested, please mail resume to: Golden Baptist Church, Attn: Pulpit Committee, P.O. Box 126, Golden, OK 74734 or email: office@friscobaptist.com.

>> F/T PASTOR: F/T Pastor needed for the First Baptist Church, Mannsville, Oklahoma. We do have a parsonage onsite. Send resume to: Charles Shockley, 12414 Sartin Road, Madill, Oklahoma 73446.

>> F/T PASTOR: FBC Medford is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Send resume to: FBC Medford, 124 W. Comanche, Medford, OK 73759 or email: fbcmedfordok@gmail.com.

>> P/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: Panola Baptist Church is seeking P/T or Bi/VO Pastor. Send resumes to: Pastor Search Committee at P.O. Box 120, Panola, OK 74559.

>> BI/VO PASTOR: Zaneis Baptist Church is seeking a BI/VO Pastor. Please send your resumes to: Zaneis Baptist Church 29925 US HWY 70 Wilson, OK 73463 or email at: zaneisbaptistchurch@yahoo.com.

>> F/T PASTOR: First Baptist Church Apache, Oklahoma is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Send resume & cover letter to: First Baptist Church Apache, Attn: Pastor Search Committee, fbcapache@pldi.net or P.O. Box 327, Apache, OK 73006. T: 580-588-2369.

>> F/T PASTOR: Fletcher First Baptist Church is prayerfully searching for a F/T Pastor. Send resume & cover letter to: Attention Pastor Search Committee, Office@fletcherfbc.com or Fletcher First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 359 Fletcher, OK 73541. >> BI/VO OR F/T PASTOR: FBC Soper, OK is seeing a BI/ VO or F/T Southern Baptist Pastor. Parsonage is available.

Health insurance benefit provided. Please send resume to: office@FriscoBaptist.com or to: ATTEN: Pastor Search Committee, P.O. Box 68, Soper, OK 74759. >> F/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: Quapaw FBC is prayerfully seeking a Pastor. If you feel your calling is more to an Associate Pastor at this time, please consider seeking information as well. Send resumes to the current Pastor at: mrobertson@wyandotte.k12.ok.us. >> F/T PASTOR: FBC Purcell, OK is seeking a F/T Pastor. Responsibilities include preaching & teaching, counseling, visitation & other pastoral duties. Include a cover letter, resume with references & a sermon link to: fbcpurcelltj@gmail.com. >> P/T OR BI/VO WORSHIP MINISTER: Clearview Baptist is accepting resumes for a Worship Minister for blended service. Responsibilities: choir, instrumentalists & media. cbcbamusic@gmail.com Clearview Baptist Church, P.O. Box 140892, Broken Arrow, OK 74014. >> F/T YOUTH MINISTER: First Baptist Church of Ninnekah is seeking a F/T Youth Minister, musical skills a plus, not required. Submit resume & cover letter by email or US mail at the following addresses: ninnekahbaptistchurch@hotmail.com or P.O. Box 277 Ninnekah, OK 73067 . >> F/T CHILDREN’S MINISTER: (OK) Minco, FBC is a Spirit-led, Bible-believing church. We are seeking a F/T Minister for our Children’s Ministry. If interested, email resume to: mike@mincofbc.com.

CROSSWO

ACROSS 1 Natural gelatin 5 Nebraska native 10 Luke, for short 13 Letter writer to Jerusalem church 15 Blot out (2 words) 16 “Eye hath not seen, nor __ heard”

>> P/T DIRECTOR OF MUSIC & WORSHIP: University Heights Baptist Church, Stillwater is seeking a P/T Worship Leader to lead music and worship for a blended worship service for a multigenerational, college town congregation. Send resumes to: jobs@uheights.org.

>> F/T CHILDREN’S PASTOR: Eastwood Baptist Tulsa is seeking a F/T Children’s Pastor who is gifted & motivated to reach children from birth - 5th grade. Conversant in Spanish is a plus is our culturally diverse area of Tulsa.

Please send resume to: jeremy@eastwoodtulsa.org. >> F/T WORSHIP LEADER: FBC Canton, TX searching for a spiritually mature F/T Worship Leader. Must have a heart for worship & for connecting with a strong, growing church. Please send resumes along with a video or link of you leading worship to: libby@firstcanton.com. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Liberty Baptist Chapel in Liberty, OK is prayerfully seeking a BI/VO Pastor. Please email resume to: libertybaptistchapel@gmail.com or mail to: 2621 East 201st Street South, Mounds, OK 74047. >> F/T PASTOR: Accepting resumes for F/T Pastor at Immanuel Baptist Church in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Send resumes to: IBCLeah@gmail.com. >> BI/VO PASTOR: FBC Shidler, OK is prayerfully seeking a traditional BI/VO Southern Baptist Pastor for a small rural church. Send resume to email: mom_sharp@yahoo.com or FBC Search Committee P.O. Box 53, Shidler, OK 74652.

MIS CEL L A NEO US >> PIANO FOR SALE: A beautiful Baldwin 7 ft Grand Piano. Fantastic sound. It is what they call an ebony finish & is absolutely gorgeous. Call or email (918) 565-0135 or ray@brooksidechurchtulsa.com to make an appointment to see & play it. $18,500. >> FREE ORGAN: Free Hammond Organ (RT-3 Model).

Organ has some issues. For more information contact fbcsnyderok@gmail.com.

RD

21 Tribe 23 Permitted 25 “I stand at the __, and knock” (Rev. 3:20) 26 Inhabitant of island 39 Down landed on 28 Letters to seven churches message 31 Mexican coins 32 Leered at 33 Rhizome bloomer 34 Alpine sport 37 Park a boat 38 Sleep disorder 40 “__ is a faithful saying” (1 Tim. 4:9) 41 Approximate amount (Abbr.)

42 Backtalk 43 Fish basket 44 Revelation figure 45 Thresh 46 Dye product 49 Lazarus’s wounds, e.g.

50 Put straight 51 Indonesian spot 52 Former fast flyer (Abbr.)

55 “Thy __ and thy staff they comfort me” (Ps. 23:4) (1 Cor. 2:9) 56 Jesus wore one 17 Dead to sin, “but __ unto God” 59 Commandments mount (Rom. 6:11) 61 Soap-making need 18 Ship’s intake 62 Deliverer of Revelation letters 19 “Pray for them which despitefully __ you” 63 Tots’ vehicle, for short (Luke 6:28) 64 Commercials 20 Wonderful, slangily 65 Like Nile’s banks

66 You should “__ up the gift of God” (2 Tim. 1:6) DOWN 1 Slightly open 2 Big to-do 3 Surrounded by 4 Pastor, for short 5 Certain award 6 “We finish our years with a __” (Ps. 90:9 niv) 7 Easter month, often (Abbr.)

8 Embrace 9 Priscilla and Aquila’s mentee (Acts 18:26) 10 Tennis tie 11 Welcome sight in Sinai Desert 12 Where 39 Down left Titus 14 Revelation’s topic: __ Coming 22 Abraham’s kin 24 “World and __ desires pass away” (1 John 2:17 niv) 25 KJV hind 26 Mary, e.g. (Fr.) 27 Some letters directed there 28 39 Down wrote a letter to the Christians there 29 Prideful ones 30 “They __ evil against you...they cannot succeed” (Ps. 21:11 niv) 31 Valentine’s Day colors 34 Former NYC stadium 35 Ukrainian capital

36 12 Down is one 38 “We shall __ live with him” (2 Tim. 2:11) 39 Prolific letter writer 40 The cross, figuratively 42 Upscale cafe’, maybe (2 words) 43 Anointed One 44 Irish dance 45 Fa follower, musically 46 Waitress on Cheers 47 Architect Frank __ Wright 48 Assistants 49 Woefully 51 Left over manna __ worms (Ex. 16:20) 52 Pout 53 Rice wine 54 Level 57 Hydrocarbon suffix 58 “Even to your old __...I am he” (Isa. 46:4) 60 Tax agency

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS

Classifieds | August 13, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

11

CLASSIFIE

LT U R E NE WS & CU

DS

VOICES

EWS CHURCH N

OMA H A L K O E H T CHIVE BAPTIST AR

Oklahoma Baptists

Report of the Treasurer • 2019 Receipts •

Cooperative Program Designated Mission Receipts Other Receipts Total Receipts

Description

A NAMELESS GARDEN

$46,578,003

Cooperative Program

Percent

Designated Mission Receipts

Southern Baptist Convention

$9,871,400

40.00

$7,149,538

Oklahoma Baptists

11,095,938

44.95

Oklahoma Baptist University

2,385,685

Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children Baptist Village Communities Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma Grand Totals

12

$24,678,500 $11,777,594 $10,121,909

Total

Percent

Other Receipts (Not Gifts)

Total

$17,020,938

46.69

$0

$17,020,938

3,661,081

14,757,019

40.48

10,121,909

24,878,928

9.67

44,390

2,430,075

6.67

0

2,430,075

650,641

2.64

789,728

1,440,369

3.95

0

1,440,369

650,641

2.64

132,857

783,498

2.15

0

783,498

24,195

0.10

0

24,195

0.06

0

24,195

$24,678,500

100.00

$11,777,594 $36,456,094

100.00

$10,121,909

$46,578,003

August 13, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Culture

Harry K. Dodd, after 10 years of faithful service to the Lord on the Falls Creek campgrounds (he served 14 years total), assisted in constructing the original prayer garden on campus. The March 30, 1989 edition of the Baptist Messenger, featured Dodd with the plaque for the garden dedicated in his honor.

“This is a place for prayer and communion with God,” Dodd said, refusing to have his name shown on the garden plaque. “And no man’s name should be placed on it.”

Oklahoma Baptists mourn the recent loss of this great Kingdom-oriented man (see Dodd’s obit on page 10).

Do you have Oklahoma Baptist history such as Falls Creek testimonies, historical church stories, or photos of a past Baptist event? Send them to baptistmessenger@okbaptist.net.