2022/October/27

The month of October is Pastor Appreciation Month. As we near the end of this month, perhaps you or your church have already done something special to rec ognize your pastor (and church staff).

not, I hope you will con sider doing something that shows your appreciation for him and all that he does to serve your church. Here are some quick rea sons why you should appreciate your pastor (and staff).

works long hours and may even work more than one

together for the 116th Annual

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Mustang, First to do

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Coming in November! The new

>> by Staff

Since 1912, the Baptist Messenger has been in forming, inspiring and connecting Oklahoma Bap tists. The Baptist Messenger is one of the most long standing publications in Oklahoma and, thanks be to God, continues to grow.

Starting in November, the Baptist Messenger introduce a new print format. Instead of a twiceper-month tabloid newsprint, the Baptist Messen ger will become a full-color monthly magazine!

Below are some frequently asked questions about the forthcoming Baptist Messenger. Thank you for reading the Baptist Messenger! God bless you!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why is the Baptist Messenger changing to a monthly magazine at this time?

A combination of strategic reasons and circum stances led to this. With skyrocketing postage costs, a move to a once-per-month publication saves tens of thousands of dollars per year in min istry dollars. Also, the current vendor that prints the twice-per-month tabloid Baptist Messenger print publication is discontinuning business, and there are no immediate alternative print options in the existing format. Finally, this strategic and timely move to a monthly magazine format will create an even more visually-appealing publication with ad ditional content, photos and stories.

Do I need a new subscription to receive the Baptist Messenger magazine?

No. If you already receive the Baptist Messenger print edition, no action is needed.

Will the new magazine format include columns and features I love, like Walker Moore’s column and the crossword puzzle?

The Baptist Messenger magazine will include all

When will my publication arrive?

In November and December, you will receive the Mes senger around the third Thursday of the month (Nov. 17 and Dec. 15). Starting in 2023, you should receive the Baptist Messenger as a monthly magazine during the first week of each month, mailed directly to you.

How will I get news daily?

In addition to this print publication you hold in

contain even more news and be available by email.

How much does a subscription cost to the Baptist Messenger?

The Baptist Messenger is available at no cost to Oklahoma Baptists, thanks to the Cooperative Pro gram and our Messenger advertising partners. If you know someone who would like to receive a subscrip tion, visit baptistmessenger.com/subscribe

OCT 29

Chaplaincy Refresher

8:30-5 p.m., $10

Baptist Building

To register, email pjones@oklahomabaptists.org

OCT 31

Church Safety Workshop

10:30 a.m.- 1p.m. Ardmore, First

To register, email ryan@fbcardmore.org or call 580/223-1472

NOV

Women

6:30-8 p.m.,

McAlester, First oklahomabaptists.org/women

8:30 a.m.- 1p.m.,

City, First Southern

p.m.,

Muskogee, Southeast

NOV

Singing Churchmen

7-8:30 p.m. Tulsa, South Tulsa oklahomabaptists.org/worship

Southern Baptist support for Ukraine continues, seminary forced to meet in bomb shelter

DIANA CHANDLER | OCT 17

Russia’s increased attacks across Ukraine forced the Ukrainian Baptist Theological Seminary (UBTS) to hold classes in basement bomb shelters, UBTS President Yaroslav Pyzh said in a video. “Russia is escalating conflict and bombing Ukraine all over the place,” Pyzh said.

HHS transgender rule threatens doctors’ religious liberty

TOM STRODE | OCT 5

The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) has urged the Biden administration to retract a proposed rule it says would violate the consciences of individuals and entities that object to gendertransition procedures. The ERLC filed public comments with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) regarding a proposal the commission says would require medical professionals, clinics and hospitals to perform and healthinsurance companies to cover procedures to which they object.

The Baptist Messenger (ISSN 07449518) 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: 39,296. Individual subscriptions are available upon request. 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. October 27, 2022 • Volume 111, Number 19.

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

MESSENGER STAFF

>> Brian Hobbs | Editor bhobbs@baptistmessenger.com

>> Chris Doyle | Managing Editor cdoyle@baptistmessenger.com

>> Lori Coats | Subscriptions/Assistant lcoats@baptistmessenger.com

>> Chris Forbes | Staff Writer cforbes@oklahomabaptists.org

>> Tori Hamilton | Art Director thamilton@baptistmessenger.com

The month of October is Pastor Appreciation Month. As we near the end of October, perhaps you or your church have already done something special to recognize your pastor (and church staff). If not, I hope you will consider doing something that shows your appreciation for him and all that he does to serve your church. Here are some quick reasons why you should appreciate your pastor (and staff).

He works long hours and may even work more than one job. He carries out the weighty responsi bility of teaching the Word every Sunday and pro viding godly counsel in complex situations others face. He leads the ministry and vision of the church. He balances the challenging demands of work with family. He makes calls, visits in hospitals and nurs ing homes and evangelistic visits.

He does difficult things many people would find daunting at the least: preaching, doing funerals, walking with people through some of their most dif ficult/painful moments in life, making no-win deci sions, being placed in between conflict among mem bers and expected to pick a side and bear the brunt of criticisms, complaints and expectations of church members with patience and grace. And most pastors do all this while being paid modest salaries.

With all of that in mind, here are some quick ways you can show appreciation to your pastor (and staff):

• Call or write a note specifically thanking him for a few things he does exceptionally well. Many times the only reason a pastor gets a call or note is for something negative.

• Give him a gift you know he would use/appreci ate that fits a hobby or interest of his (golf balls, ap parel of his favorite team, etc.)

• Send him and his wife on a date night and cover the cost of the date and the babysitting.

• Give him some time off in addition to his vaca tion time.

• Share some meaningful things you’ve recently learned from his sermons.

• Give his wife and kids gifts; they sense and bear the burden ministry can many times bring.

• Coordinate a good number of people to write cards of encouragement and throw in some gift cards.

• Give him a basket of his favorite drinks/snacks.

• Make an appreciation post about him on so cial media.

Being a pastor can be difficult, but most pas tors will tell you it’s rewarding and is not seen as a job but a calling. They do not do what they do for accolades or compliments, and they won’t ask to receive them, but they do appreciate be ing appreciated!

If you haven’t done something to appreciate your pastor and church staff, how about doing so now?

One last word—I hope you will make plans to join us November 14-15 for the Oklahoma Baptists’ Annual Meeting at Mustang, First. The theme this year is “Anchored” and will focus on our commit ment to the essential foundation of the Word of God and will be a celebration of the many things God is doing among Oklahoma Baptists. Hope to see you there!

Brian Hobbs

Fisher Editor

Dear faithful Baptist Messenger reader,

For more than 110 years, the Baptist Messenger has been informing, inspiring and connecting Oklahoma Baptists, as we seek to advance the Gospel together.

During those decades, God has used Oklahoma Baptists to share the love and Good News of Je sus with millions of people in our state and around the world. Through it all, the Baptist Messenger, as the flagship publication for Oklahoma Baptists, has sought to shine the spotlight on all God is doing.

The Baptist Messenger, in addition to its print edi tion, also has introduced a breaking news website (baptistmessenger.com), a Messenger Mobile app, a weekly podcast program, Spanish language arti cles, an award-winning blog and more.

Thanks to the leadership of Oklahoma Baptists, including our executive director and board of di rectors, the Baptist Messenger is undergoing an im portant update.

Starting in November of this year, the Baptist Mes senger print edition will be presented as a monthly magazine, instead of a tabloid newspaper. Why this move? A combination of strategic rea sons and circumstances led to this. With skyrock eting postage costs, a move to a once-per-month publication saves tens of thousands of dollars per year in ministry dollars. Also, the current vendor that prints the twice-per-month tabloid Baptist Messenger print publication is discontinuning busi ness, and there are no immediate alternative print options in the existing format. Finally, this strategic and timely move to a monthly magazine format will create an even more visually-appealing publication with additional content, photos and stories.

This monthly magazine will arrive to your mailbox and will require no out-of-pocket costs to you, Okla homa Baptists. The full-color magazine will feature all of the great content you have come to rely on and love—missions stories, inspiring articles and photos,

prayer points and features. All of the popular content like Walker Moore’s column and the crossword puz zle will be included in the Messenger magazine as well.

We understand with any updates, it is import ant to communicate. This move from a twice-permonth newspaper to a once-per-month magazine will save thousands of dollars, monies which will be invested in missions and ministry here in Oklaho ma. Moreover, the magazine content will enable us to feature content that is even more impactful to the reader.

Jesus said, “… messengers are not greater than the one who sent them” (John 13:16), and that is true for us as a publication. We are just a reflection of you, Oklahoma Baptists.

We are so thankful to be able to publish content that we hope is informing and inspiring.

We hope you enjoy the new format of the Mes senger magazine, coming to you in mid-November, along with all of the other content and stories avail able any hour of the day at baptistmessenger.com

Sincerely in Christ, Brian Hobbs

Rite of passage: True love’s kiss

Walker Moore

Our concept of love shifts and changes as we grow older. Books are written, movies are made, and songs are sung—all trying to convey this thing called love. I grew up in the ’60s when about half of the songs were about finding love and the other half was about losing it.

Children’s understanding of love comes within the context of self and family. We love our mom mies, we love our dogs, and we love our teddy bears, but outside of that, we have no context in which to experience or understand love.

A group of 4- to 8-year-olds was given the ques tion “What does love mean?” As expected, their an swers came in the context of family and friends. Read a few, and you will see what I mean:

“When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn’t bend over and paint her toenails anymore. So, my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That’s love,” Rebeccaage 8.

“I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones,” Lauren - age 4.

“When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You know that your name is safe in their mouth,” Billy - age 4.

“Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford,” Chris - age 7.

“Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it every day,” Noelle - age 7.

But as we get older, our understanding of love takes gentle shifts. Allow me to share a story that demonstrates the difference between a boy’s and a young man’s concept of love.

One day, a little boy was playing in the woods when he happened upon a frog. The frog spoke to him, “Kiss me, and I will become a beautiful princess.”

Sometimes I walk into a room of young people and the hormones are so thick I can barely make it to the other side. I notice a young couple as they sit on opposite sides of the room making eyes at each other. They laugh, drop their heads and look up again, laughing and giggling. Once more, they bow their heads, look up again and smile. Even though they’ve never spoken to each other, they’re now boyfriend and girlfriend. Nothing says, “I love you” more than a text message from across the room.

It has been said that every pastor is an interim unless they are the pastor of the church when the Lord returns or the church closes the doors for the final time. Whenever a pastor leaves his role, the church goes through an inevitable season of tran sition. This period in the life of a church is a critical time for their future.

For the past 20 years, Oklahoma Baptists have been very involved in helping churches navigate these seasons of transition through the Transitional Pastor Ministry. This ministry has developed through the years, adapting to better serve the churches.

In recent days this ministry has adapted again into what is being called Moving Forward Interims. Moving Forward Interims are based on the same core principles that have guided the ministry for years, while addressing a couple of key issues that churches have expressed in relation to the Transi tional Pastor Ministry.

The first issue that has been raised historically, and more so in recent days, is about the length of time needed for a church to move through the Transitional Pastor process. In response, the Moving Forward pro cess has shortened the timeframe for a church to move through the process from the six to eight months need ed for the transitional process to three to four months. Moving Forward has retained the core elements of the Transitional Pastor while making the over all time needed more concise. This will encourage more churches to utilize this ministry that will en able them to be better prepared for the future in a timeframe that is daunting for them.

The boy studied the frog, then put it in his pocket. ”Hey,” the frog croaked, “how come you didn’t kiss me?”

ANNUA L M EET ING INFO

“I’d rather have a talking frog than a princess any day!!” replied the boy.

Ah, but a day will come when that young boy would rather have a beautiful princess than a talking frog.

Soon our love expands even more to include peo ple outside our family and frogs. Since I have worked with students, I get to see this type of love blooming as they grow in their awareness of the opposite sex. Young men are no longer afraid of getting cooties, and young girls no longer see boys as yucky.

Love today has been digitized, advertised, sanitized and exemplified. But nothing can come close to the love our Father has for us. Those who want true love must come to the realization that essence of love is a person. To know love is to know God, for “God is love” (1 John 4:8). He is the creator, founder and designer of this thing called love. The closer we draw close to Him, the more we can expand our love beyond our humanness. A personal relationship with a Holy God changes our ability to love. And even when we don’t feel like loving, through Him, we can love our enemies and pray for those who despitefully use us. In this, the love of God is broadcast across the hearts of mankind.

If you’re looking for love, you don’t have to look any further than John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave …” There has never been a more powerful line written than this one, which says we matter to God. “… His one and only Son.” There has never been a more op ulent gift. “…that whoever believes in Him shall not per ish but have eternal life.” There has never been such an enduring gift. And He gave that gift to you.

You are loved, you matter to God, and He wants the best for you! And that, my friend, is nothing to croak about.

Strengthen: Moving Forward helps churches in transitional season

The second issue that has been frequently raised is related to the church being hesitant to engage in the process because of the size of their congregation. In response, the Moving Forward process is scalable for all sizes of congregations. The transitional pastor pro cess is based on a team of 15-25 people nominated by the church to serve with the transitional pastor.

The vast majority of Oklahoma Baptists churches have less than 75 in attendance and can see this as pect as a hindrance from participating. The church with 150 or more in attendance can still nominate the team to work through the process with the in terim pastor, but for most churches with less peo ple in attendance, any or all of the congregation can participate in the process. This shift provides an opportunity for churches of every size to bene fit from the process. There have been churches with 25 in attendance that have participated in and bene fited from a Moving For ward interim.

By shortening the time re quired for the process and making it scalable for any size of congregation, we be lieve that the Moving For ward strategy is something that every church should prayerfully consider when they come to an interim season. Most of the direc tors of missions/association al missions strategist have been trained in the process along with some of the key men who serve as interims in their associations.

Many associations have had or are planning to

have Moving Forward trainings to equip the inter ims that serve in their areas. Oklahoma Baptists will move fully to this strategy in the future and contin ue to provide training and coaching for those who serve in this vital role.

The prayer that drives the Moving Forward strat egy is that it would be a tool that is used to help ev ery church advance the Gospel. We pray that the interim period that the church will inevitably face would not simply be a time of waiting but working under the leadership of a skilled interim pastor. Fi nally, we pray that the church would be better pre pared to call their new pastor and walk with him as they pursue God’s mission in their community.

A S S I

I

O I C

Oklahoma Baptists’

Director of

>> by IMB Staff

“Addressing lostness as the world’s greatest prob lem requires the world’s greatest resources,” Interna tional Mission Board (IMB) President Paul Chitwood recently told Southern Baptists. For this reason, IMB invites all Southern Baptists to participate in the 2022 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering® (LMCO) and Week of Prayer for International Missions.

Southern Baptists send IMB missionaries to be steadfastly present among those who have never heard the Gospel—people in cities, people in hardto-reach places and people who are dispersed around the world.

But this missionary presence is only possible through fervent prayers and faithful gifts.

By praying for IMB missionaries and those who have yet to hear and believe the Gospel, South ern Baptists can help solve the world’s greatest problem—lostness. The Week of Prayer will be ob served, Dec. 4-11.

Those who give to the Lottie Moon offering make it possible for IMB missionary presence to cultivate Gospel access, Gospel belief and Gospel multiplica tion. Southern Baptists are invited to support the work of IMB missionaries not just during this Christ mas season but 365 days a year.

This year’s Week of Prayer and Lottie Moon offer ing downloadable resources are available now on the IMB’s website (imb.org/lottiemoon). In addition to stories, full-color photos and videos, the IMB is of fering a global impact guide, social media graphics, presentation graphics, kids’ resources, goal posters and a bulletin insert.

V O I C E S

Resources are also available in Spanish, Korean and Chinese. These resources are designed to in vite Southern Baptist church members—all ages— to actively participate in the task of praying for missionaries and raising awareness of God’s work around the world. The stories and other materials will unite individuals and churches in meeting this year’s $196 million LMCO goal.

Through the LMCO, Chitwood said, the IMB and Southern Baptists can remain on task to address one problem that rises above every problem—lostness. There are 157,690 people dying daily without Christ, and more than 3,000 people groups remain unengaged.

This work can be accomplished through the co operative work of Southern Baptists. The Southern Baptist Convention exists for the purpose of pray ing, giving, going and sending, together.

“Together, we get to share the Good News of Je sus with people and places where that news has

never been heard,” Chitwood said. “Together, we send, sustain and support missionaries to be stead fastly present around the globe. We must reach the nations, together.”

M EET ING

Those interested in hearing from Chitwood, se nior leadership and missionaries about how the generosity of LMCO supporters is making an im pact on lostness and find out more about IMB’s 2023 vision can visit imb.org/presidents-call to se cure a spot in the exclusive video call (registration required) on Nov. 4 at 2:30 p.m.

Find all resources at imb.org/lottiemoon. Addition al materials will be available leading up to Week of Prayer, Dec. 4-11.

Resources are also available through the Oklahoma Baptists missions and women’s ministry office. Email surton@oklahomabaptists.org to order.

The Lottie Moon Christmas Offering® is a registered trademark of Woman’s Missionary Union.

You’re Invited…

to join OBU and the Tom Elliff Center for Missions for the FINAL Missions Forum of the semester.

Special guests and authors, Nik and Ruth Ripken, share stories of victorious, persecuted believers. THURSNov. 10, 2022 | 3:30-5:00 p.m.

OBU Stavros Hall

For more information and to register, visit o okbu edu /elliff center

>> PHOTO: IMB PHOTO Pastor Thomas Abgemeh from Grace Baptist Church in Pakro, Ghana, baptizes a new believer in the Densu River outside of Nsawam, Ghana. One of the IMB’s key goals is to see Gospel belief that results in lives transformed among the nations. Each baptism an IMB missionary is a part of is another example of God’s work in transforming lives through our missionary presence.

Oklahoma Baptists come ‘Together for the Nations’

>> by Brian Hobbs EDITOR

EDMOND—There are some 2 billion people on earth today without meaningful access to the Gos pel of Jesus Christ, according to a source with the International Mission Board (IMB) of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC).

On Oct. 11, approximately 200 Oklahoma Bap tists from across the state gathered in Edmond for the first IMB special event called “Together for the Nations,” which is designed to propel missions and the spread of the Gospel.

From messages from God’s Word to hands-on ac tivities to breakout sessions, the all-day event was punctuated with one theme: Southern Baptists must have the urgency to take the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all nations.

A recurring theme of the event was addressing what Paul Chitwood, IMB president, has called “The greatest problem in the world today: lostness.”

The event was attended by pastors and church lead ers from Oklahoma who wanted to learn how they and their churches can make a difference in missions and grow in “partnership with the International Mis sion Board in solving the world’s greatest problem.”

Rusty McMullen, pastor of McAlester, First, was among many participants who drove hours to at tend the event at Edmond, Henderson Hills.

“Jesus gave us the Great Commission, and He wants us to make disciples of all nations,” McMul len said. “This IMB event was encouraging to me, as it provided a great avenue to connect with IMB mis sionaries and discover ways we can become even more involvement in international missions.”

The event, which was promoted in partnership with Oklahoma Baptists, was hosted by Edmond, Henderson Hills. “We were honored to host the To gether for the Nations IMB Conference today. May the Lord send more for His glory (Luke 10:2),” said John Wohlgemuth, pastor of Henderson Hills.

Oklahoma Baptists’ President Chris Wall, who serves as pastor of Owasso, First, led a panel at the event called “Reaching the Nations Together,” in which he interviewed recognized missions lead ers in Oklahoma who have cultivated “a culture of sending in their local church.”

“Any church of any size discovers the many path ways Southern Baptists can go on missions, from short-term to long-term missions,” Wall said. “As Southern Baptists, we truly have a great legacy of

missions. Together we can reach the nations for him. Oklahoma Baptists are a key part of this story.”

Attendees took part in breakout sessions that in cluded topics, “Reaching the Lost in South Asia,” “Reaching the Lost among the Global Deaf” and “Reaching the Lost in the Americas.”

Leaders with the IMB expressed appreciation for Oklahoma Baptists for being a leader in global mis sions and hosting the event. Future Together for the Nations conferences are being planned.

“We have a great group today at the Together for the Nations conference!” said Todd Fisher, Oklaho ma Baptists executive director-treasurer. “Thank you IMB for coming to Oklahoma and encouraging and equipping our Oklahoma Baptists churches of every size and location to be engaged in interna tional missions.

“Fifty-nine percent of the world’s population (4.6 billion people) are part of unreached/unengaged people groups. We must be committed to the mes sage God has given us and the mission to take it to the nations.”

Visit imb.org/event/together-for-the-nations-oklahoma for more information.

Association adopts a new name, shared vision

>> by Staff

Capital Association met for its annual meeting, as it has for 133 years, but this time, something was different. A seven-member task force, appointed by the association and comprising 170 metro area churches, proposed a name change and outlined a new vision at the Oct. 9 gathering at Oklahoma City, Trinity.

The messengers at the meeting voted to be re branded from Capital Baptist Association (CBA) to a new name, the Metro Baptist Network, OKC (MBN).

After viewing a video introducing the ratio nale behind the new name and hearing a report and recommendation from the CBA Strategic Task Force, messengers unanimously approved the name change.

“We wanted our name to reflect our commit ment to the entire OKC Metro area,” said Mark Walters, associational missions strategist, inform ing the more than 300 gathered at the annual meeting. “The name Metro Baptist Network says who we are. Networking together is what we do as an association, and our focus is the entire Okla homa City metro area.”

Walters explained that the MBN ministry focus area includes Guthrie to the north and south to the border of Moore. MBN churches are in Luther, Harrah and Newalla in the east, as well as Piedmont, Yukon and Mustang in the west.

“MBN consists of small, medium and large church es,” Walters said. “Some are legacy churches; others are new church plants, some replanted churches and many ethnic fellowships.”

Task force members included Walters; David Hooks of Oklahoma City, Bryant Avenue; Tobin Jackson, OKC, Trinity; Jeremy Smith of Midwest City, Eastwood; Tyler Barnes of Oklahoma City, Thrive; Ever Borunda of Oklahoma City, Rancho Village; and Chris Forbes of Edmond, Edmond Community.

In the Sunday evening meeting, Walters ex plained to the messen gers that the strategic task force began working in May in conjunction with Resonate Group from Nashville, Tenn.

“Our task force worked with a group that special izes in helping organizations like ours with mission clarity, strategic planning, and rebranding,” he said.

“We have met for many long hours, especially since August, in prayer, discussions and consultations.”

Walters explained that MBN would cultivate a shared vision for “a healthy church for everyone.”

“Our mission is to develop healthy, growing churches and leaders, collaborate in effective, shared ministry and curate the best resources for our churches and leaders,” he said.

“Our strategic plan is a simplified ministry plan,” Walters continued. “To accomplish our mission, we will focus on ‘church health,’ through church plant ing of all ethnicities, replanting metro churches in changing neighborhoods and strengthening exist ing churches.

“We will also emphasize ‘pastor health’ by offer ing mentoring and coaching, continuing pastoral education and leadership development opportuni ties. We will help establish ministry leader fellow

ships through cohorts and affinity groups.

“Additionally, we will continue with ‘community impact ministries,’ including the Grace Rescue Mis sion and Baptist Mission Center. We will continue to support the local Baptist Collegiate Ministries on the campuses of the colleges and universities with in our network area.

“VBS, Backyard Bible Clubs and Sports Camp training will be scheduled to help equip the lo cal church to reach children and families in their ministry community,” Walters concluded. “Evan gelism and discipleship helps will be available upon request.”

Walters, who is completing his first year of lead ing MBN, shared his appreciation for the support the messengers and churches have offered through making this transition of a name change.

“Thank you for entrusting us with this sacred task,” he said. “It is an honor to serve our churches in this way. Our work is not finished; in the weeks ahead, we hope to invite you to help us even more in shaping our next era of ministry together.”

MBN also launched a new website that hosts a video about the new branding; learn more at MBNOKC.net

>> PHOTOS: PROVIDED

1) Mark Walters speaks to messengers about the new name and vision for Metro Baptist Network, OKC; 2) Metro Baptist Network, OKC is the new name for Capital Association, as unanimously approved during the association’s annual meeting, Oct. 9.

by Staff

MUSTANG—In less than a month, Oklahoma Baptists will gather together for the 116th Annu al Meeting. Hundreds of messengers are expect ed to meet at Mustang, First to do convention business, and this will be a cherished time for all who attend.

In anticipation of what to expect at this year’s Annual Meeting, here is a list of items and activ ities that will definitely make the event a “can’t miss” experience.

Mustang, First hosts Annual Meeting for the first time

According to Oklahoma Baptists records, this will be the first time Mustang, First has hosted Annu al Meeting. This great church has been doing Gos pel-advancing work, and Annual Meeting will be the first time for many Oklahoma Baptists to visit and see what God is doing at Mustang, First.

Pastors’ Conference

Experienced pastors who have demonstrated steadfastness in their ministries will be filling the pulpit during this year’s Pastor’s Conference, which will precede Annual Meeting, Nov. 14. The theme of the Pastors’ Conference is “Steadfast,” focusing on the importance of pastors and church leaders be ing steadfast in Gospel advancement today.

Speakers for the Pastor’s Conference include Doug Passmore, pastor of Lawton, First East; Rick Frie, pastor of Jenks, First; Anthony Harris, pastor of Amarillo, Texas, St. John; Hance Dilbeck, president of Guidestone Financial Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention; and Jack Graham, pastor of Pla no, Texas, Prestonwood.

Electing officers

Current Oklahoma Baptists officers include Chris Wall, president; Andy Finch, first vice president; and Trey Graham, second vice president. At the Annual Meeting, nominations for president, first vice pres

ident and second vice president will be received, with a slate of officers voted upon.

Report from the Sexual Abuse Task Force

When he was elected executive director-trea surer of Oklahoma Baptists in November 2021, Todd Fisher made it one of his first intentions to ask the president of Oklahoma Baptists to form an Abuse Prevention and Response Task Force. Presi dent Wall and Oklahoma Baptists board members established the task force in March 2022.

Eric Costanzo, pastor of Tulsa, South Tulsa, serves as chairman of the task force, and he, along with other task force members, will present the report and re sources during the Tuesday morning session, Nov. 15.

Reports from affiliates

Baptist Village Communities, Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children, Oklahoma Baptist University and WatersEdge are the four affiliated ministries of Oklahoma Baptists. Leaders from this ministries will be sharing the great work they have been doing over the past year that has helped Oklahoma Bap tists advance the Gospel together.

Celebrating 50 years of Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief Messengers and other Annual Meeting attendees should expect to see a lot of yellow shirts during the Annual Meeting. The ministry of Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief will be celebrating 50 years of providing help, healing and hope to hundreds of thousands of people in the aftermath of disasters over the years.

A celebration dinner is planned for Monday, Nov. 14, at 4:45 p.m., immediately following the Pastors’ Conference. Deadline to register for the dinner is Nov.

3. Those wanting to attend the dinner can register on line at okdisasterhelp.org/DR-50th-anniversary-rsvp

The Monday evening session also will feature a special celebration report on Disaster Relief.

Sermons and addresses

Powerful preaching is a fixture at Annual Meet ing. Fisher will be giving his executive director-trea surer’s address during the Monday evening session. Wall will be giving his president’s address during the Tuesday morning session, and Duncan Black well will deliver the annual sermon during the Tues day afternoon session.

Dippin’ Dots in the Exhibit Area

The tradition continues as messengers and other Annual Meeting guests will have their opportunity to partake of Dippin’ Dots, hosted by WatersEdge Financial Resources in the Exhibit Area. Many other enjoyable items also will be available to eat and to pick up, relating to the various ministries affiliated with Oklahoma Baptists.

Great fellowship

The Exhibit Area and other areas also will pro vide special opportunities to connect with fellow Oklahoma Baptists. Programming is important, but those impromptu, unplanned meetings with friends are treasured encounters that serve as times to encourage and support each other.

For more on Annual Meeting, visit oklahomabaptists. org/annualmeeting for the latest information.

CHRIS

OBU crowns Harvest Court during halftime on Oct. 15

>> by Janis Rasnic OBU COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

SHAWNEE—Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) announced the 2022 Harvest Court winners during halftime of its Oct. 15 football game against East Central University. The event wrapped up a host of campus activities that took place during The Week end, OBU’s homecoming celebration Oct. 13-15. OBU President Heath A. Thomas and First Lady Jill Thomas participated in the ceremony.

Eighteen senior students were nominated by their peers in six different categories: most ser vant-like man, most servant-like woman, best allaround man, best all-around woman, harvest king and harvest queen. The student body voted for the winners in each category earlier in the week.

Grace Vernon was crowned harvest queen, and Micah Compton won harvest king.

The best all-around woman went to Audrey Bra nham, while Hayden Cunningham won best allaround man. Brittany Freeman was selected as the most servant-like woman, and Caleb Griffin won most servant-like man.

Additional finalists for harvest queen included Paige Witt and Emma Brockman. Other finalists for harvest king included Noah Sanders and Doron Williams. Other finalists for best all-around woman included Reagan Benton and Masey White. Additional finalists

for best all-around man included Peyton Byrd and Trevor Evans. Finalists for most servant-like woman included Maddi McDonald and Bailee Brown while most servant-like man nominees included Maurice McMullen and Dillon Dunk.

The crowning of the harvest queen is a long standing OBU tradition, dating back to 1920.

Alumni honored during

Harvest

>> by Janis Rasnic OBU COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

SHAWNEE—Oklahoma Baptist Uni versity (OBU) recognized outstanding alumni with special awards during its annual Harvest Dinner Friday, Oct. 14. The event took place during The Week end, the University’s homecoming cel ebration at OBU’s campus in Shawnee. Multiple awards were presented in cluding the Alumni Achievement, Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) and Profile in Excellence Awards.

Laura Hillman, class of 1990, and pres ident of the OBU alumni board of direc tors, presented the alumni awards while OBU President Heath A. Thomas joined her in congratulating each award win

ner. A video tribute highlighting each recipient’s achievements was featured.

The highest honor bestowed by the OBU Alumni Association, the Alumni Achievement Award is given in recog nition of outstanding life service which has brought honor to the University.

Receiving this year’s Alumni Achieve ment Awards were David Garland, class of 1971, Dan Garringer, class of 1970, and Colonel Shon Anthony Remich, class of 1989.

This year’s recipient of the GOLD Award was Austin Manger, class of 2014.

This year’s Profile in Excellence Award recipients include Michael Burns, Chris and Ashley Campbell, Kent Choate, Christie Johnson Erwin, David Manner and Robert Arleigh White.

>> PHOTO: OKBU.EDU

The 2022 OBU Harvest Court winners with OBU President Heath Thomas and First Lady Jill Thomas.

From left, Jill Thomas, Caleb Griffin, Brittany Freeman, Audrey Branham, Hayden Cunningham, Grace Vernon, Micah Compton, Heath Thomas.

Timberlake, McWilliams inducted into OBU Faculty Hall of Fame

Warren McWilliams, professor emeritus of theology, and the late Kathryn Timberlake, professor emerita of music, were inducted into the Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) Faculty Hall of Fame recently. Pic tured presenting the award is Matthew Emerson, OBU dean of theol ogy, arts and humanities. Receiving the award for Timberlake is her daughter Mary Kathryne Timberlake MacKenzie.

Timberlake served at OBU from 1953 to 1988. She passed away in 2019 at the age of 95. During her service at OBU, she exhibited high standards of academic excellence and was merited for her devotion to Christian educa tion and her positive influence on students throughout her 35-year career.

McWilliams was honored for his many years of service to OBU. Hired as an assistant professor of religion in 1976, he was installed to the Au guie Henry Professorship in Bible in 1980 and promoted to associate professor in 1982. He served as Auguie Henry Chair of Bible from 1982 to 2018, when he retired.

OBU

OBU honored outstanding alumni during their annual Harvest Dinner as part of The Week end festivities. Honorees pictured with, back from left, OBU President Heath Thomas are, David Garland, ’71; Austin Manger, ’14; Michael Burns, ’03; David Manner, ’80; front from left, Charles Campbell on behalf of Chris and Ashley Campbell, ‘02; Colonel Shon Remich, ’89; Christie Johnson Erwin, ’82; Dan Garringer, ’70, and Kent Choate, ’82. Not pictured is Robert Arleigh White,’77.

Church members gather for Life Chain Sunday

>> by Linda Morgan CHURCH MEMBER, RED OAK, FIRST

Seventeen stood on the side road of Hwy 270 at Red Oak to participate in Oklahoma Baptist’s Life Chain Sunday. Members from Red Oak, North Rock Creek; Panola; and Red Oak, First took a stand for unborn children and God’s will in the lives of His children.

Members held signs proclaiming “Adop tion—the Loving Option,” “Jesus Forgives & Heals,” and “Lord, Forgive Us and Our Nation.”

The annual event is on the first Sunday in October and is a time for prayerful self–anal ysis, repentance and serious commitment to helping end abortion in our nation.

Coweta, First to host event

biblical

First is hosting a Sunday evening event, Dec. 4, from 6-8 p.m. for an informative dialogue about God’s plan for mankind regard ing sexual orientation and gender identity.

Four speakers will discuss how followers of Jesus are called to walk in wisdom, with compassion and on mission in this present age.

The four speakers include Todd Fisher, exec utive director-treasurer for Oklahoma Baptists; Vern Charette, pastor of Coweta, First; Mark Custalow, pastor of Oklahoma City, Glorieta; and Patrick Janson, associate pastor at Coweta, First.

For more information visit fbccoweta.org

Oklahoma Baptist pastors and church members are in vited to attend the “Who’s Your One?” evangelism work shop taking place at OKC, Quail Springs, Nov. 2.

The event, which is be ing promoted in partnership with Oklahoma Baptists, will equip all those who attend.

The schedule will be:

4-5:15 p.m.—Session for pastors with Q&A. This ses sion is for pastors and church staff members.

5:30-6:30 p.m.—Fellowship meal with pastors. Quail Springs will host pastors and church leaders for a meal that will feature discussion of how God is working in Oklahoma Baptist churches.

6:30-7:45 p.m.—Session for pastors and church members. Quail Springs’ congregation will attend this ses sion. Church members from all Oklahoma Baptist churches are invited to attend.

The speaker is Jimmy Scroggins, lead pastor of West Palm Beach, Fla., Family Church. Scroggins is the creator of “3 Circles,” which God is using to start Gospel conver sations all over the world. In the afternoon session, he will talk about “Leading the Church with an Evangelis tic Vision,” including Q&A. That evening, Jimmy will walk through “3 Circles” from beginning to end.

The “Who’s Your One” workshop, including evening meal, is available at no cost. For more information, visit qsbc.org/events or call 405/755-9240.

R

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

N E W S PTIST ARCHIVEHE OKLAHOMA

GUNN DEATH. Tommy Gunn, 64, died Oct. 15. Funeral services were Oct. 20 at Duncan, Fair. He served as a music minister at many churches in cluding Duncan, Fair; Shawnee, Rock Creek; and Cushing, Oak Grove. He used his voice and talents to share the love of Jesus. He is survived by his wife Kathy, his son Rusty, who is pastor of Sand Springs, Church That Matters; his daughter, Brande Richardson; and six grandchildren.

CHURCH STAFF CHANGES

NICK SANDERS is worship pastor at Ada, Trinity.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS

REVIVAL REPORT. Oct. 2-6 at Stidham in Pittsburg Association; 22 professions of faith in Christ; music led by Stidham youth; Evangelist Clint Sinclair of Henryetta; Dane Yandell is pastor.

Fall Back at Falls Creek

The annual autumn event at Falls Creek Baptist Conference center, near Davis, was once again a big hit among Oklahoma Baptists students. More than 1,400 participants representing 73 churches attended Fall Back, Oct. 14-15.

Ryan Fontenot was the speaker at Fall Back. He is an evange list who has been involved in Southern Baptist work in Texas and was camp speaker during Week 3 of the Falls Creek summer youth weeks. The worship band was So We May.

>> PHOTO: FACEBOOK.COM

>> PHOTO: PROVIDED

From left, Brett Bischoff, Rich Bischoff, Nella Bis choff, Debra Meek, Bud Meek, Violet Bischoff, Kelly Bischoff, Johnny Montgomery, David Janeway, Beth Brinkley, Brianna Bischoff, Linda Morgan, Judy Janeway, Ann Savage, Judie Hilburn, Carolyn Carpenter, and James Carpenter share God’s love during Life Chain Sunday.

TODD FISHER VERN CHARETTE

MARK CUSTALOW PATRICK JANSON

‘Who’s Your One?’ workshop at OKC, Quail Springs

>> by Ryan Smith LEAD PASTOR OF BROKEN ARROW, ARROW HEIGHTS

Being a pastor can be hard. Not only are we trying to keep up with the lives of our local church members, but we also want to faithfully share God’s Word and reach our communities. With all that those pursuits entail, how can we possibly have time to ad dress the difficult cultural topics of our day? Who cares what the Kardashians are do ing or what’s trending on Netflix? We have more important things to address, right?

The truth is, if we want to be effective pas tors, we need to know where our sheep are. Most of our people are in the midst of an allout barrage of messaging from our culture that seeks to sell them on lesser gods. All day our people are hearing messages about sex, prestige, personhood and acceptance. What will they hear from us?

The truth is, if we fail to adequately repre sent God’s Word in our cultural conversations, our people will assume one of several things. Either they will assume the Bible has noth ing to say on these topics, God doesn’t care what we do in these areas or we shouldn’t talk about these topics in the church.

The problem with that approach is that the Bible has a lot to say about sex, prestige, personhood, acceptance and a host of oth er cultural topics that hit our news feeds. The Bible is not silent on difficult cultural topics. We shouldn’t be either. So how can pastors address difficult cultural topics with care and confidence?

Do it

Oddly enough, the easiest, yet most diffi cult step in addressing difficult cultural top ics is just doing it. None of us want to be “that guy.” We don’t want the emails from every side of the argument invading our in box. It’s easier just to avoid the conversa tions altogether.

But if we are going to help shepherd our people through the dark valleys of this world, we first must be willing to go through them ourselves. Be willing to take up dif ficult topics. Be willing to preach through

texts that address difficult cultural issues, not around them. Let your church know that these conversations are on the table— even if they are uncomfortable.

Ground the discussion in God’s Word

The good news is that we don’t have to formulate the greatest opinions or ideas about how to navigate today’s constant ly evolving cultural topics. Today’s hottest trends and issues are really just retreads of the same old broken world trying to fix it self apart from God. There is nothing new under the sun.

If you’re going to present a side, present it clearly and plainly from the Bible. Don’t just find a proof-text, rather ground your message in the entire Gospel narrative and show how the Bible speaks to a particular issue. If people are going to argue, make them argue with the Bible, not you.

Make the ground level at the foot of the cross

While we are certainly called to speak the truth, we are also called to do it in love. We are not going to represent God accurately if we come from a posture of accusation or of fensiveness. Remember, you’re a sinner too. Apart from the grace of God, you too would be blinded from the truth and celebrating your idolatry.

As we address difficult topics, we must re member and readily admit that we are all broken sinners. Just because we may be ad dressing an area of sin doesn’t mean that we also aren’t culpable in an equally egre gious area of sin. We aren’t telling people to rise to our level; we are admitting that we are all broken and in need of a Savior.

The ground is very level at the foot of the cross. We are trying to trust and follow Jesus together. We invite others to follow with us.

BLOG

THE GREATEST SERVICE

>> LORI COATS

Today, everyone wants to be an “influencer”—to make a difference. As a matter of fact, many marketing strate gies are built around this very principle.

Let me explain. If a farmer grows coffee beans, he can sell those beans for pennies. If he turns them into a “val ue-added product,” such as coffee, he can now sell those same beans, in the form of a cup of coffee, for a few dollars.

If he builds a building and creates an intriguing atmo sphere, he can sell those same beans, for hundreds of dol lars, to those who wish to visit his coffee shop for a mem orable experience.

Finally, if he attaches a “cause” to the reason that he is doing all of this and promises to contribute some of his earned income to that cause, he can sell those same beans for thousands of dollars to those who support or sympathize with his shared cause.

That is why you see so many businesses endorsing and promoting cultural causes. It’s a way to make a so cial change, in their words, “give back.” It eases the con science and coincidentally it generates money—a lot of money. It’s brilliant! These business owners appear to be geniuses. When, in fact, it’s just a great plan with maybe an underlying agenda.

To read the rest of Lori’s blog, visit baptistmessenger.com/blog-the-greatest-service

To read more blogs with Jesus in mind, visit www.baptistmessenger.com/blog

VBS JUMPSTART

Oklahoma Baptists Childhood Minis try is ready to help you prepare for the next Vacation Bible School. On Nov. 3, VBS Jumpstart will meet at Del City, First Southern to inform church leaders about the new VBS theme and lesson plans.

oklahomabaptists.org/childhood

Do the hard work of pastoring in the day, time and culture in which God has placed you. You don’t have to be on TikTok or know the latest lingo to be culturally relevant. Just preach the Bible, and when it speaks to a difficult cultural issue, be faithful in speak ing about it as well.

YOU HAVE TO CHANGE

SAYS

May God bless and lead you as you do.

BAPTISTS

HASKINS SCHOOL OF CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP

Has God called you to ministry? The Haskins School provides non-tradition al, practical, biblical ministry training for multi-vocational and ethnic ministry leaders through online classes.

Check back with the highlight every issue

haskinsschool.org

more

SBC

Dear Dave, Is debt consolidation a good way to get out of debt? —Erikah

Dear Erikah ,

BAPT

No, it’s not. Debt consolidation companies try to position them selves that way, but they don’t even come close to addressing or solving the real problem.

Here’s the big reason debt consolidation isn’t a good idea. It makes you feel like you truly did something to change your whole financial outlook when you didn’t. When you move things around, or suddenly have a lower payment each month, you end up think ing you’re making real progress. The thing is you didn’t do any thing to address the actual problem—which is you.

I meet people and talk to folks on my radio show all the time who don’t quite grasp this. They’ll tell me they paid off all their debt by using a debt consolidation company or taking out a second mort gage on their homes. Well, the truth is they’re not debt-free. They didn’t do anything but shuffle the same old debt around.

Personal finance is 80 percent behavior, Erikah. When it comes to getting out of debt, staying out of debt and getting your fi nances into shape, you have to change your habits and behaviors with money. Interest rates aren’t the problem, and the number of payments you’re facing aren’t the problem. The problem is the person you see in the mirror every morning.

Until you change that person, and start living on a strict, written monthly budget and decide to kick debt out of your life once and for all, you’ll never make any real progress toward gaining control of your money!

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

L A S S I F I E D S V O I C E S

>>F/T or BI/VO PASTOR: Mary Niblack Road Baptist Church, Ardmore, OK is prayerful ly seeking a F/T or BI/VO Pastor. Please send resume to: maryniblackroad@gmail.com.

>>F/T PASTOR: Is needed for Galey Baptist Church. Galey is a friendly, country church. Please send resume to: DMount.quiver@gmail.com.

>>F/T PASTOR: Bethel Baptist Church of Anadarko, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Candidates should email a resume to: scot.gpglass@att.net or mail to: Bethel Baptist Church, Attn. Pastor Search Com mittee, 501 W. Florida, Anadarko OK 73005.

>>F/T SENIOR PASTOR: FBC Jay is ac cepting resumes for a F/T Senior Pas tor. Please email resumes to: fbcjay@ya hoo.com or mail to: P.O. Box 304 Jay, OK 74346. Attn: Pastor Research Committee.

>>P/T WORSHIP LEADER: FBC, No ble prayerfully seeking Sunday morn ing Worship Leader. Interested appli cants email resume to: stbrasier@aol.com.

>>BI/VO OR P/T WORSHIP MINISTER: Seeking God’s candidate for our next blend ed service Worship Minister. Please sub mit resume & cover letter to: cbcbamusic@ gmail.com or Clearview Baptist Church, P.O. Box 140892, Broken Arrow, OK 74014.

>>P/T YOUTH MINISTER: New Hope Bap tist Church, 1501 N. 43rd St. E., Muskogee, OK 74403 is prayerfully seeking a P/T Youth Minis ter to lead & disciple youth 6th - 12th grades. Send resumes to above address or email to: NHBC2022YouthMinister@gmail.com .

>>P/T MUSIC MINISTER: New Hope Bap tist Church, 1501 N. 43rd St. E., Muskogee, OK 74403 is prayerfully seeking P/T Music Minister. Send resume to above address or email to: NHBC2022MusicMinister@gmail.com.

>>F/T PASTOR: Eastside Baptist Church in Elk City, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. A

parsonage is provided. Candidates should sub mit a cover letter & resume to: eastsidesec@ outlook.com Attn: Pastor Search Committee.

>>F/T FAMILY PASTOR: FBC Maysville is in search of a F/T Family Pastor. Please email a cover letter & resume to: fbc.mays ville@yahoo.com or mail to: FBC Mays ville, Attn: Family Pastor Search Commit tee, P.O. Box 745, Maysville, OK 73057.

>>F/T YOUTH MINISTER: WHBC is seek ing a F/T Youth Minister who loves young people & desires to see them grow in their relationship with Christ. Send resumes to: mail@whbcok.org or Woodland Hills Baptist Church, 313 S. Hwy 76 Newcastle, OK 73065.

>>BI/VO YOUTH MINISTER: North east Baptist Church, located in Norman, is seeking a BI/VO Youth Minister. Please send resume to: esasnett@nebaptist.com or mail it to: Northeast Baptist Church, 905 E. Rock Creek Rd, Norman, OK 73071.

>>F/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: New Hope Bap tist, an elder lead church, in Jay, OK is seek ing a F/T or BI/VO, Spirit-called Pastor. Please email resumes to: nhbcjayok@gmail.com.

>>BI/VO PASTOR: Spring River Indian Bap tist Church is prayerfully seeking a BI/VO Pastor. Mail cover letter & resume to: Spring River Indian Baptist Church, Attn: Search Committee, 5600 S. 630 Rd., Quapaw, OK 74363-1997 or email: sribc1939@gmail.com.

>>P/T WORSHIP LEADER: FBC Ninnekah, OK is prayerfully seeking for the right indi vidual to lead our worship services. Hour ly wages plus milage. Send resume to: ninnekahbaptistchurch@hotmail.com.

>>P/T YOUTH MINISTER: Hydro FBC in Hy dro, OK is prayerfully seeking a P/T Youth Minister to disciple/lead our youth. Inquire or send resumes to: jbsanders59@hotmail.com.

>>P/T OR BI/VO YOUTH/STUDENTS MIN ISTER: FBC Pauls Valley, OK. Applicants must affirm the 2000 BF&M & be able to pass a criminal background check. Current college students are encouraged to apply. Send resume to: fbcpvpastor@gmail.com.

>>F/T PASTOR: FBC Hollis is prayerfully

seeking a F/T Pastor. Parsonage is provid ed. Please send resumes to: FBC, P.O. Box 589, Hollis, OK 73550 or fbchollis@pldi.net.

>>P/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: New Begin nings Church is seeking a P/T or BI/VO Pastor. What we believe: https://www. nbcshawnee.com/about-3. 1203 East 42nd St., Shawnee, OK. Contact: 2700 N. Kick apoo, #273, Shawnee, OK 74804. new beginningschurchshawnee@gmail.com.

>>SENIOR PASTOR: FBC Granite, OK is prayerfully searching for the man God is calling to fill the Sr. Pastor posi tion. If you feel called, please email a re sume to: fbcgraniteresumes@gmail.com.

>>BI/VO PASTOR: Possibly leading to F/T. We are small in number but anxious to grow & willing to work. Parsonage can be provided with all bills paid. Send resume to: High Hill Baptist, 33 Church Rd, McAlester, OK 74501.

>>F/T STUDENT MINISTER: FBC New Boston, TX, is seeking a F/T Student Minister Please send your resume, references & testimony (personal statement of faith) to: FBCNBYouth Search@gmail.com Compensation Package: $62,000 in salary & benefits. Salary negotiable.

>>F/T MUSIC MINISTER: FBC New Boston, TX, seeking a F/T Minister of Music for blend ed music ministry. For more information about the position, please visit: https://www.fbc newboston.com/music-minister-search/. Send your resume to: office@fbcnewboston.com.

>>VOLUNTEER WORSHIP LEADER: Sun nyside Baptist Church, 8091 S 305th E Ave, Broken Arrow is seeking a volunteer to lead our mostly traditional worship service. Con tact us by email: rcheasbro@outlook.com.

>>SENIOR PASTOR: Senior Pastor sought. Experience required. Adherence to BFM2000. Send resumes, recommen dations to: Pastor Search Committee, First Baptist Church, 125 S. Delos, Haysville, KS 67060 or pastorsearch@fbchaysville.org.

>>F/T WORSHIP PASTOR: FBC Fred erick is prayerfully searching for a F/T Worship Pastor. Please send re sumes to: admin@frederickfirst.org.

R O S S W O R D

V O I C E S

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following narrative was provided by Randy Swift, associate pastor at Claremore, First, who was serving on a chainsaw team in Daytona Beach, Fla. with Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief (DR). For those interested in more information on DR or would like to make a financial contribution, visit okdisasterhelp.org.

It’s Monday, Oct. 3, 8:37 p.m.— the call goes out to Claremore, First for relief effort after Hurricane Ian’s devastation throughout Florida. The team is briefed on Wednesday (Oct. 5) for deployment to Daytona Beach. By Friday (Oct. 7), nine men depart at 6 a.m., having shuffled schedules to meet the physical and spiritual needs of those whose lives have been upended.

It would take two days across seven states to get to Daytona Beach, Fla., First, which served as our host for approximately 70 Oklahomans whose hearts to serve in selfless sacrifice met people who were des perate for hope. In addition to this crew were an Inci dent Command, three mud-out teams and a remark able kitchen crew that fed everyone well. Upending their facilities and continuing to function in their own ministry efforts, Daytona Beach, First should be commended with a “job well done!”

The first week of any deployment is quite an un dertaking that requires much flexibility to meet the needs of both the teams and the church, so that they can function as best as they can with the in trusion. This week required multiple set-ups for sleeping arrangements. The church needed all its space on Sunday, resulting in all bedding and lug gage being stored, and then the worship centner transformed into sleeping quarters for all the men. Headphones or earplugs are a must on DR trips as the symphony of snores does not create the sym phonic sounds that eases one to sleep!

Sunday worship was a blessing to cel ebrate with the people of Daytona, First. Both services were packed as those af fected by Hurricane Ian were prayed over. We gave praise for the Body of Christ and its response by serving the community and lifted the name of Je sus in Word and song.

Now it was time for work. In events such as a hurri cane, it takes a little time for word to get out as to how people can find assistance. Incident Command or chestrated that effort, along with the church, and the work orders began to trickle in. As a result of the slow er response, the chainsaw crew was able to love on the church that afternoon by removing several trees, re posting several directional signs on the property that had been blown over and stood a large palm tree with the hopes of it replanting itself.

Monday through Friday (Oct. 10-14) looked much different, as the chainsaw team found its way into multiple communities, including Daytona, DeBary, Deltano, New Smyrna, Port Orange and Orange City. This area received a significant amount of wa ter and wind damage. The responsibility of this crew was to bring assistance to those with downed trees. Several required removing trees from off the house and carport. Others were downed because of the

wind and the saturation of rain that Hurricane Ian produced. This team completed approximately 24 work orders in five days.

The Call is more than a phone call. It’s a mandate that this chainsaw crew sees for Gospel encounters.

It’s a first responder who has been overwhelmed by the circumstances of his life in recent days who needs assurance that Jesus is real, and He makes a difference.

It’s a call to love on Leslie who said her husband would once again agree to go to church because of the kindness shown to their family.

It’s Julio, from Venezuela, who believes that works equal salvation and gets to hear the Gospel and re ceive a Bible to point him to Truth.

It’s Laurie who has been angry with God at the loss of her husband last year, at a loss because of a $35,000 bid for the tree work and desperate for help.

This chainsaw crew worked hard! Downed trees and debris were removed from yards, and the fulfill ment of meeting needs in the name of Jesus opened doors for Gospel presentations and brought great joy to many Floridians.

When The Call comes, be sure to answer.