First Church Tulsa annual report 2017

First Presbyterian Church Tulsa, Oklahoma

Annual Report 2017

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Contents Agenda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Leadership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Co-Pastor Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Associate Pastor’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Associate Pastor’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Associate Pastor’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 2017 Meeting Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Clerk’s Report

Treasurer’s Report

Trustees Report Board of Elders Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Board of Deacons Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Board of Trustees Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Staff Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Worship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Church Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Music Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Discipleship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Children’s Ministry Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Youth Ministries Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 UKIRK Ministry Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Adult Discipleship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

First Ladies’ Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Presbyterian Women . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Atrium Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

History & Archives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Member Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Guild of Intercessors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Mission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Local Mission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Global Mission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Foreign Missionaries Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Financial Partnerships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Outreach & Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Camp Loughridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Troop 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Mission Ministry Financial Detail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Helping Hand Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 FPC Endowments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

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AGENDA FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, TULSA, OK ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING & REPORT SUNDAY, APRIL 8, 2018 •

Opening Prayer

•

The Call of the Corporate and Congregational Meeting

•

Announcement of First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa Corporate Officers for 2018

•

Approval of the Minutes from the 2017 Annual Meeting

•

Presentation of Membership Statistics for the Year Ended December 31, 2017

•

Presentation of the 2017 Financial Results and the 2018 Operating Budget

•

Update from the Board of Trustees

•

Updates from the Co-Pastors

•

Year in Photos 2017

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Co-Pastor Report

“Praise God, from whom all blessings flow…!”

Psalm 105:1 directs us, “Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon His name; make known His deeds among the peoples! Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; tell of all His wondrous works!”

LEADERSHIP

Our first and overwhelming thought on 2017 is:

The report in your hands is one way of heeding the psalmist’s encouragement. It is one way of “making known His deeds” and “telling of all His wondrous works!” The works and deeds in the following pages are not the result of human efforts. Rather the good news that fills up these pages is, we believe, the work of God in Jesus Christ and through the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. When we live out of gratitude to God and when we call upon his name, then the works of his hands through us his church are beautiful to behold.

“Celebration” might be the First Church word of 2017. We celebrated the 500th anniversary of the Reformation through music, worship, and guest speakers. We rejoiced that the Rev. Wambugu Gachungi and family became permanent U.S. residents! We filled Driller Stadium for our beloved Jim and Diane Miller—for their 25 years and counting of faithful service to the Lord Jesus at First Church. We watched Rev. Dan Hutchinson grin from ear to ear as his beautiful bride, Hanna Howard, came down the aisle led by a gaggle of First Church children. We delighted in Andy Tirado’s stunning transformation of the Miller Atrium into one of the finest art galleries, for Christ’s sake, in Tulsa. With gladness we welcomed the opening of the Masterwork Academy and 30 children from Anderson Elementary. And we packed to overflowing Stephenson Hall for our first annual Christmas Ceilidh.

There are so many more stories to tell of God’s faithfulness. There are so many more deeds and works of God to make known! And there are so many more yet to bear witness to in the coming year and years.

We join with all the pastors and staff in thanking the Lord for the gift it is to serve this outpost of Christ’s Kingdom. “…Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heav’nly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen!”

Warmly, in Christ, RVM JDM 3

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LEADERSHIP

Associate Pastor’s Report “And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” – Ephesians 1:9-11 What a year! On November 25, Hanna and I were married in the Sanctuary which was a beautiful reminder that FPC is not just a gathering of people; it is a family. We have our quirks, and at times we have our struggles, but this is a family seeking to be faithful to Jesus Christ, the Lord of the Church, and I am grateful for the call to serve.

Paul prays that the church’s love would abound with knowledge and discernment; producing the fruit of righteousness and bringing glory to God. This is my prayer for each student we serve in NextGen Ministries. While we want our students to know about God, our longing is that they would come to love Him. Everything we do – from the programmatic elements of AWANA, Sunday School, and small groups to mission trips, retreats, worship, and Bible studies – is there to help students engage in a life-transforming relationship with Jesus that ignites in them a love for Christ and His church, and ultimately leads them into faithful obedience and service.

We can’t do this alone! Foremost, it is the Spirit of God that changes the human heart, and we invite you to join us in lifting up the young people of this church to God. We also recognize the impact that parents, grandparents, guardians, etc. have on their kids’ lives, and we want to do everything possible to encourage you in raising your kids to know, love, and serve the Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you for bringing your kids to church.

Thank you for sharing conversations about faith with them. Thank you for praying with them. Thank you for making Christ a priority in your life together. Thank you for allowing your kids to claim faith as their own. Thank you for giving us the joy of walking alongside your children. My encouragement is this: each day, make Christ the cornerstone. Seek him in your life and model that passion to your kids. They will see it, and you will not regret it! And please remember that any of us would love to sit down over a cup of coffee to talk and pray with you.

Finally, a huge thank you to our amazing staff and our amazing group of volunteers.

These men and women are the life-blood of the ministry. Of course, we are always looking for folks willing to invest in the lives of our young people. If you feel the tugging of the Spirit, I invite you to jump in! And if you don’t feel that tug, then I invite you to spend more time in prayer!

Thanks so much for your support of this ministry.

In Christ, Rev. Dan Hutchinson

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Associate Pastor’s Report

But press a bit further than 11 o’clock on Sunday morning and Jesus starts to turn up in unexpected places. Perhaps the most surprising place to find Jesus is in the faces of the most desperate people.

Jesus was criticized for the time he spent with drunks, thieves, sinners and traitors, yet this was the company he kept.

LEADERSHIP

Where can you go to find Jesus? The Gospel writers report that it was Jesus’ practice to be in the synagogue on the Sabbath, so it’s not unexpected that Jesus would be sought out among the people of God gathered in worship.

In Matthew 25, Jesus tells about the coming judgment when people will be rewarded for having served him, though they did not know it. Jesus says it this way, “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.” The people then asked, “Jesus, when did we do these things for you?” Then Jesus responds, “When you did it to one of the least of these, you did it to me.” (Matthew 25:31-46) In 2017, the members of First Church were out finding Jesus.

When I think of feeding the hungry I consider Meals on Wheels, Helping Hand Ministries, the Bendawe Girls School, or supporting the Martyn family. And when it comes to quenching thirst I remember the H2O Project, Petra Kids Ministries, American Red Cross, Dr. Daren Kennedy quenching the students thirsty for God’s Word at the Seminary in Cairo.

We have welcomed the stranger through partnership with ministries like Masterwork Academy, Camp Loughridge, Goodland Academy, Tulsa Boys Home, and Lindsey House. I also think of all those welcomed by First Church like Mateen Elass, Joseph Kassab, and Dr. James Kigamwa at Literacy and Evangelism International.

Through gifts from First Church, organizations like Ministry of Hope and the National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon are clothing the naked.

Faithful volunteers continue to visit the sick near and far through Meals on Wheels, Works of HeArt, and St. Luke’s Surgical Medical Center in Valladolid, Mexico.

A small and faithful cadre of First Church members are devoted to bringing the love of Christ to those in prison through Kairos ministry.

Pull aside one of these faithful volunteers and they will tell you a simple and profound truth; if you are trying to find Jesus, he can be found serving the poor.

With gratitude for every gift given for Christ’s sake, Rev. James R. Estes 5

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LEADERSHIP

Associate Pastor’s Report Great things often happen in the kingdom of God without great fanfare. God sometimes uses people who seem insignificant to accomplish special things in His kingdom. And those who obey the great commission are, at times, under the radar.

As part of our tradition, 2017 began with opening the prayer box, sharing testimonies, writing prayers and setting goals. One goal was to run 1,000 miles as a community – to get physically fit for the kingdom of God. Participants were encouraged to develop an individual discipline and to record their daily, weekly and monthly workouts. We got off to a great start and, while not everyone who started was able to finish, the goal and purpose were realized. Along the way, though, an even greater purpose was realized.

The Holy Spirit, through some “faithful participants”, spoke about expanding the vision. How might we support those who are not able to run or do what we normally do and take for granted? Rather than simply focusing on our own physical achievement, the Holy Spirit directed us to reach out to people with special needs.

We began by extending hospitality to families with special needs children, and worked to address areas of concern for those families. We sought ways to create a “village” of support and, with God’s help, a new mission within our community was born: Jabari Mission ( Jabari means “brave or fearless one” in Swahili, and is the name of one of the children with special needs). The main goal of Jabari Mission is to ensure that no child is left behind spiritually, physically, or socially. The community has already begun to fulfill this goal by: • • • • •

Providing a “no judgement” zone for all, regardless of status and abilities Offering respite care to parents with special needs children Engaging the community in providing social support to special needs children – to celebrate their achievements and attend athletic and other activities Visiting the classroom to see how special needs children are taught Learning from other churches and Ministries with special needs missions

When God has a plan, He confirms it as only He can. When the TIF community was thinking about how to serve those with special needs, the FPC NextGen team was doing the same. This was God at work! Through various channels, He confirmed that 2017 was the year to launch a special needs mission. We thank God for working within the TIF community and the FPC NextGen team. We are grateful for their obedience to the Holy Spirit in taking steps to support this mission. Our desire is that every child should come to know and experience the love of God. Just as Jabari’s parents said “Let’s do it,” let’s DO IT as a community of faith and follow the lead of the Holy Spirit. It started small with a self-motivation for physical exercise and discipline, but God in His unique way changed the cause for the Greater Good.

Let’s do it!

Rev. Wambugu Gachungi 6

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2017 Meeting Minutes

• • • • • • •

LEADERSHIP

A called meeting of the Congregation was held on Sunday, March 26, 2017 in Stephenson Hall at 9:30 a.m. for the annual report of the Congregation and Corporation. Rev. Ryan V. Moore served as Moderator and called the meeting to order with an opening prayer at 9:40 a.m., then called Clerk Gary Mathews forward who served as Secretary for the Meeting. The Secretary noted that Session had called this meeting as required by our Book of Order and the FPC Bylaws. Notice was properly given per the Book of Order and a quorum of the Congregation was present. The Secretary, Elder Gary Mathews, provided the Agenda for the Called meeting as follows: Announcement of First Presbyterian Church Tulsa Corporate Officers for 2017 Presentation of Membership Statistics for the Year Ended December 31, 2016 Approval of the Minutes from the 2016 Annual Meeting, plus three other Congregational Meetings Presentation of the 2016 Financial Results and the 2017 Operating Budget Updates to the Congregation on results of the Annual External Financial Audit of FPC, Adequacy of Insurance Coverage, and Reports to Presbytery on adequacy of Compensation for our Teaching Elders Update from the Board of Trustees Other updates following the Congregational Meeting

Copies of the 2016 Annual Report were distributed to all attendees of the meeting and were available at all Services throughout the morning. Copies of the detailed 2017 Annual Budget were also available on request.

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LEADERSHIP

2017 Meeting Minutes: Clerk’s Report Elder Gary Mathews (Clerk of Session) presented the following updates: •

The FPC-Tulsa Corporate Officers for 2017 as defined in the FPC Bylaws are: President: Dr. John Frame (Chair of Trustees) Vice-President: John Woolman (Trustee) Secretary: Jennifer Morgan (Trustee) Treasurer: Gary Johnson (Session Chair of Finance & Stewardship)

•

The Clerk presented the Membership Report. As of December 31, 2016, the active church membership was 2,683, compared to 2,669 on December 31, 2015. Details of the net increase of 14 members were presented. The Moderator asked for a motion from the Congregation to receive the Membership Report.

The motion was made, seconded, and the Membership Report was approved by unanimous voice vote.

•

The Minutes of the 2016 Congregational meeting were included in the Annual Report. A motion was requested for the Congregation to approve Minutes of the Annual Congregational and Corporate Meeting, First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa, April 3, 2016 (as presented in the Annual Report), and for the approval of the minutes of three additional meetings of the Congregation: 1. Sunday, January 10 to elect a Designated Associate Pastor Nominating Committee from the Congregation; 2. Sunday, April 18 to act on the recommendation of the Nominating Committee to call Wambugu Gachungi to be a Designated Associate Pastor with responsibility for the Tulsa International Fellowship, subject to subsequent approval by Eastern Oklahoma Presbytery; and, 3. Sunday, August 21 for the purpose of voting to elect officers for the 2019 Class of Session, Deacons, and Trustees plus the Congregational Nominating Committee Representatives for 2017.

The Moderator asked for motion from the Congregation to approve the Minutes, which was made, seconded, and the Congregational approved by unanimous voice vote.

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2017 Meeting Minutes: Treasurer’s Report

•

Elder Johnson presented the 2016 financial results, with annual revenues of $3,585,311 were less than expenses of $3,630,180 resulting in a $44,869 decrease in our operating reserve. This is in comparison to 2015 when we experienced a $91,682 increase in our operating reserve.

•

The 2017 Budget of $3,709,675 was approved by the Session on February 28, 2017 at their stated Session Meeting. The 2017 Budget is $87,875 more than the 2016 Budget and does not anticipate using any of the operating reserve.

•

The Budget will fund the First Church Worship, Discipleship and Missions ministries as more fully described on pages 19, 22 and 39 of the annual Report.

A more detailed line item budget is available from the church business office.

The Moderator asked for motion from the Congregation to receive the 2017 Budget as presented, which was made, seconded and the Congregation approved by unanimous voice vote.

•

Elder Johnson reported:

LEADERSHIP

The Moderator called on Elder Gary Johnson, Treasurer and 2016 Finance & Stewardship Committee Chair, to provide the Treasurer’s report.

1. An Independent Auditors’ Report on the Church’s financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2015 was received on September 29, 2016 with no exceptions indicated.

2. Insurance coverage was extended for the period 2/1/2017 to 2/1/2018 that provides for the replacement cost of our facilities and includes general liability, automobile, comprehensive crime, workers compensation and directors’ and officers’ liability coverage.

3. The Personnel committee reported to Session that the “Terms of Call” for all Pastors had been reviewed and that each met or exceeded minimum guidelines set by Eastern Oklahoma Presbytery. The Terms of Call were reviewed with the EOP General Presbyter as required by the Book of Order.

4. The $3,000,000 line of credit that First Presbyterian Church has with Bank of Oklahoma currently has no funds drawn against it.

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LEADERSHIP

2017 Meeting Minutes: Trustees Report The Moderator called on Trustee John Woolman (2017 Vice-Chair of the Trustees) to provide the Trustees’ Report. The Board of Trustees is responsible for the management and oversight of investments held by the First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa Foundation. The Foundation holds assets in the form of equities, bonds, and oil and gas interests. The Trustees have engaged the Bank of Oklahoma to provide active management of the Foundation investment assets.

The Foundation provides support on an annual basis for many of the programs of First Presbyterian Church U.S.A. of Tulsa, Oklahoma. This support comes from endowment earnings generated by Foundation-held assets. Five broad ministry categories are supported by Foundations earnings. They are: Music and Worship, Scholarship and Education, Nurture and Care of Families, Local and Global Missions, and Long-Term Facility Maintenance and Repair. In 2016, the Foundation grew in total value from $13,012,381 to a closing balance of $13,705,287. The growth in value reflects healthy market gains, new contributions of $630,072, program distributions of $578,025, and fees of $58,248.

The 2016 Board of Trustees was comprised of a dedicated group of leaders: Jane Crain, Susan Cravens, Jim Eagleton, John Frame, Jennifer Morgan, Leslie Pritchard, Julie Rowland, Mary Lee Torbert, and John Woolman. Susan Cravens served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. The Trustees continue to provide oversight and support for the Director of Planned Giving Ministries, Elaine G. Horkey. Elaine’s efforts in 2016 focused on educating church members regarding the importance of the Foundation and the many ways in which they can create a legacy gift to First Church by including the Foundation in their estate plans. Current Legacy Society membership continues to grow under Elaine’s leadership.

Plans for 2017 include exploring opportunities to increase Foundation assets in order to provide additional funding for Missional opportunities.

Rev. Moore requested a motion from the Congregation to adjourn which was made, seconded, and approved. The Annual Meeting was adjourned with prayer at 10:05 a.m.

Following the meeting, there was a report from Co-Pastor Dr. Ryan Moore, a report from Bob Pielsticker, Chair of the 8:10 Mission Capital Campaign, and a slideshow of the 2016 Year in Photos featuring the multitude of activities the FPC family is blessed to be involved in, plus a Closing Prayer.

Dr. Ryan V. Moore Moderator

Gary S. Mathews Secretary

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Board of Elders Report

• • •

• • • • • • •

•

LEADERSHIP

The Session is the primary governing body and designated authority on important elements related to the operation and ministry of the Presbyterian Church. Elders are chosen by the congregation and are charged with the duties to “provide that the Word of God may be truly preached and heard, provide that the Sacraments may be rightly administered and received, and nurture a covenant community of Disciples of Christ.” The Session carries out its various responsibilities through several committees. Highlights of those committees’ activities appear throughout this 2017 Annual Report and include the following: Reviewed Stewardship Activities and approved the 2017 Annual Operating Budget to present to the Congregation. A schedule of 2017 fundraising activities within the Congregation was also approved by Session.

Acted, in coordination with the congregation, to reinstate the Rev. Wambugu Gachungi as Associated Pastor upon resolution of his immigration status.

Approved the formation of an 8:10 Executive Committee to oversee the 8:10 Building and report to Session. Authorized the 8:10 Mission Capital Campaign Committee to raise $5,000,000 to pay off building indebtedness. All office space is leased.

Examined and approved all new members. Examined Confirmands in preparation for joining FPC by Confession of Faith. Sixty-eight new members were added.

Approved and awarded student scholarships from various Trust Funds.

Monitored the Pilot Program for Masterwork Academy, the after school ministry offering Anderson Elementary School students instruction in music, dance and art.

Approved leasing space in the Bernsen Building to Catholic Charities to provide legal services related to immigration.

Approved action to accommodate an art exhibit of Andrew Ramiro Tirado, emphasizing the Hand of God. Initiated a program for Elders to write personal notes to individuals in the congregation.

Moderated the Nominating Committee made up of representatives of each Board and the Congregation to select Candidates for the next class of FPC Officers as Deacons, Session, and Trustees, which were approved by the Congregation.

Approved Julia Metcalf as an Inquirer Candidate for Ministry, which was approved by the Eastern Oklahoma Presbytery Committee for Preparation of Ministry.

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LEADERSHIP

Board of Deacons Report In all seasons, and seasons of life...

Winter: Compassion, witness and service. These are the benchmarks of Deacon Ministry as set forth in the Scriptures and endorsed by the church Book of Order.

The Diaconate—comprised of thirty members from throughout First Church— spends the winter in spiritual hibernation, organizing and planning the events that span the Deacon calendar.

Spring: Fittingly enough, our year of service and celebration begins with an Easter Brunch–a massive spread served between church services for the talented and devoted singers and musicians who make Easter Sunday—and every Sunday—more glorious. Hot on the heels (but not so hot that we didn’t need windbreakers) came our annual Day of Care, when we drove all over town doing—raking leaves, clearing gutters, mowing lawns— projects for several of our parishioners.

Summer: During a more temperate August than usual, we celebrated Camp Sunshine, treating the oncology patients, current and former, of Saint Francis Children’s Hospital to a day of swimming, canoeing and rope swings on the grounds of Camp Loughridge in west Tulsa. We grilled hot dogs and chicken for some thirty families and many more friends.

Fall: Before the leaves even turned, we held our All Saints Day service and lunch on November 1 in honor of those who recently lost loved ones. This gathering is a true communion of saints that glorifies the Church Triumphant. We fed them from endless platters of sandwiches and cookies that kept appearing in a loaves-and-fishes fashion. At the end of that month, the banquet tables set up in Stephenson Hall for our annual Thanksgiving Service and Dinner groaned under the weight of so many pies. Finally, at year’s end, we gathered at the temporary home of Emerson Elementary on Martin Luther King Boulevard for Celebrating Christmas Together, where Santa-red gift bags lined the hallways, carols sounded in the classrooms, and the school bells rang out for Christmas Day. The Deacons carried on their year-round duties of offering communion to the homebound, comforting the bereaved, and making weekly flower deliveries. We picked up the torch from the Deacon class of 2016 and discussed a more robust version of the annual Day of Care that would combine homebound visitation and home maintenance. As with all Deacon Ministries – and in the words of Jesus to his Disciples – “not to be served, but to serve.”

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Board of Trustees Report

LEADERSHIP

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the management and oversight of investments held by the First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa Foundation. The Foundation holds assets in the form of equities, bonds, and mineral interests. The Trustees engage the Bank of Oklahoma to provide active management of the Foundation investment assets. This year we developed a new strategic plan of goals and objectives primarily for educating our congregation on the responsibility of leaving a gift to the Foundation.

The Foundation provides support on an annual basis for most of the programs of First Presbyterian Church U.S.A. of Tulsa, Oklahoma. This annual support is provided from endowment earnings generated by assets held by the Foundation.

Five broad ministry categories are supported by Foundations earnings. They are: Music and Worship, Scholarship and Education, Nurture and Care of Families, Local and Global Missions, and Long-Term Facility Maintenance and Repair. In 2017, the Foundation grew in total value from $13,705,287 to a closing balance of $16,357,471. The growth in value reflects healthy market gains, new contributions of $1,184,983, church program and mission distributions of $604,963 and management fees of $63,456.

The 2017 Board of Trustees was comprised of a dedicated group of leaders: Larry Bump, Jim Eagleton, John Frame, Cip Frizzell, Jennifer Morgan, Leslie Pritchard, Mary Lee Torbert, John Woolman and Peggy Welch. Dr. John Frame served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. The Trustees continue to provide oversight and support for the Director of Planned Giving Ministries, Elaine G. Horkey. Elaine’s efforts in 2017 focused on educating church members regarding the importance of the Foundation and the many ways in which they can create a legacy gift to First Church by including the Foundation in their estate plans. Current Legacy Society membership continues to grow under Elaine’s leadership.

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LEADERSHIP

Staff Update First Presbyterian Church continues to be blessed with a talented and dedicated staff. We experienced only a few changes during the year and most new hires were related to special programs. This allowed the staff to build on its experience and prepare for the New Year.

We had three significant pastoral events to celebrate during the year. Ryan Moore, co-pastor, completed his doctorate through the University of St Andrews, and will officially graduate in June, 2018, when he receives vestments. Wambugu Gachungi, associate pastor, received his work permit, the last step before getting his permanent work permit. In the fall, we celebrated Jim Miller’s 25th year of faithful service to First Church. We are blessed, indeed.

Program staff had minimal changes during the year. Laurel Baird replaced Amy Russell as the children’s assistant director. Philip Bowman replaced Pam Hillis as the k group coordinator. And Kenna Hill, administrative assistant, replaced Laurel Baird after her move. The AWANA ministry also saw the addition of a dedicated part-time coordinator, Meredith Rogers.

Local mission efforts saw the start of Masterworks Academy. This after school program is led by Jenette McEntire and a staff that varies in number during the school year.

In addition to Dr. Miller’s anniversary, we recognized Steve Howe for 25 years and George Wallace for 15 years of service. The value of long-term service and commitment to the church cannot be overstated.

First Church also celebrated the marriage of Rev. Dan Hutchinson and Hanna Howard on November 25 in the First Church Sanctuary.

Amid all these transitions the Lord has been faithful, and the FPC staff is in a very strong position as we go forward into a new year of ministry.

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WORSHIP

Worship

Budget 2017

Actual 2017

Budget 2018

$1,004,514

$998,839

$1,052,280

Church Statistics

Worship: In 2017, we continued our Sunday worship schedule with five regular services and one dedicated Sunday school hour: • • • • • •

WORSHIP

Membership: In 2017 the Church had a total net loss of 5 members. We welcomed 68 new members: 15 by Confession of Faith, 21 by Reaffirmation of Faith, and 32 by Certificate of Transfer. First Church experienced loss of 73 members: 51 by Death, 13 by Transfer, and 9 by Deletion Request. We have 15 Affiliate Members.

The total active membership as of December 31, 2017 was 2,678.

A traditional service at 8 a.m. in Kerr Chapel A contemporary service at 8:30 a.m. in Stephenson Hall A unified dedicated Sunday School hour at 9:30 a.m.

A traditional service at 11 a.m. in the Sanctuary An international service at 11 a.m. in the Great Hall of the Bernsen Center A contemporary service at 11 a.m. in Stephenson Hall

Throughout 2017, First Church averaged 727 people in worship each Sunday. The average weekly attendance* in each of the services was: • • • • •

8 a.m. (Chapel Service, 93 in worship) 8:30 a.m. (Contemporary Service, 35 in worship) 11:00 a.m. (Traditional Service, 424 in worship) 11:00 a.m. (International Service, 83 in worship) 11:00 a.m. (Contemporary Service, 91 in worship)

* In some cases, worship services are combined.

During 2017, 20 people were baptized (17 infants/children and 3 adults). Our pastors officiated at 5 weddings, 42 memorial services and 4 inurnments in the Columbarium.

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Music Ministries

WORSHIP

The Music Ministries of FPC were blessed with another busy and rewarding year.

We continued to grow in 2017, with a new approach to further the ministerial investment of the Contemporary Music Ministry. Eric Baird supported Gateway Worship, AWANA and participated in various Chancel Choir activities. Ten A/V volunteers and musicians were recruited from the Youth Ministry to assist with contemporary worship, including two scholarship cellists from TU. In addition to our regular worship schedules, the ministries provided music for a number of special events, including the Valentine’s Day Banquet, Dr. Miller’s 25th anniversary, Art in the Atrium, Carols & Cocoa, Christmas Music Sunday and the new Christmas Ceilidh. Other notable events for the year include: • • • • • • • • • •

The Evenings at the Bernsen series concluded in September. We are grateful for the support of all who have made this series a success since 1998 The Chancel Choir presented two concerts with orchestra, one in April and one in November The Gloria women’s ensemble provided leadership during worship as well as music for events at Philbrook Museum, Inverness Village, FPC Advent Workshop, and First Ladies Advent Luncheon The Celebration Singers provided music for Youth Sunday, Easter, Dr. Miller’s 25th Anniversary celebration, and the live nativity play on Christmas Eve Ron Pearson presented his 44th annual organ concert in October Under the leadership of Julianne Hand, the Worship 101 singers shared their musical gifts at worship and at VBS FPC children presented a very successful Christmas nativity pageant for the 5:00 p.m. Christmas Eve service, drawing the largest crowd ever for that service FPC music scholarships continue to draw talented local college students who make a strong contribution to our music ministry; we are grateful for those who contribute to the fund that makes these scholarships possible Members of the Chancel Choir provided music for funerals and memorial services, caroling in December for Emerson Elementary School, and continued sponsorship of an apartment at Lindsey House The Overtones Bell Choir continued its tradition of providing musical leadership during worship

As our music ministry grows, so does our need for volunteers and volunteer event leaders. If you feel the Lord leading you to invest further in the ministry of this church through your gifts of time and talent, we are eager to hear from you! And, if you have a desire to sing, play an instrument, ring a bell, or offer your musical talent in other ways, we are always pleased to add new participants to any of our musical ensembles. We appreciate the support and encouragement of the congregation as we strive to proclaim the Good News through the art of music.

Soli Deo Gloria!

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DISCIPLESHIP

Discipleship

Budget 2017

Actual 2017

Budget 2018

$1,358,001

$1,321,002

$1,453,225

Children’s Ministry What a year Children’s Ministry had!

Our calendar was full of incredible events anchored in the love of Christ Jesus, bringing children and families together to know and embrace God’s word. A campaign inviting adults to become “One of Five” produced leaders committed to the weekly faith-growth of First Church’s youngest disciples. Great things happened for and through the Kingdom every single week!

But God is at work and something much more holy happened.

•

The number of active, engaged families has grown and families are more likely to be involved in several aspects of the church

•

Church and church-life is a priority

•

The knowledge base of the children has grown exponentially and they are equipped to tell you what they’ve learned

•

Families are extending invitations to friends who are also looking for authentic, meaningful relationships through the local church

DISCIPLESHIP

Children’s Ministry challenges families by encouraging and guiding them to be serious enough about their faith to change…to actually make Christ-centered goals. The changes manifest themselves in ways we can see and the changes are thrilling! A few things noticed:

It is the ever present prayer of FPC’s Children’s Ministry that the combination of who we are, how we live and how we respond to the children shapes their faith and begins their lifelong relationship with the Lord Jesus!

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Youth Ministries FPC Youth Ministries’ purpose is to make disciples of Jesus Christ who seek to follow him daily, invite others to encounter him, and to be the Church here and now. Steve Wilson, Director of Youth Ministries, and Jackson Seibert, Associate Director of Middle School Ministries, along with many faithful adult leaders, walk alongside our youth as they follow Jesus Christ. We joyfully work together to grow in our love for Christ and in our relationships with each other.

We constantly and prayerfully evaluate our Youth Ministries programming and seek God’s will for our ministry. In 2017, we took action to faithfully bring about changes for the Pathfinder (Middle School) and Exodus (High School) Ministries: • • •

DISCIPLESHIP

• • • • • • •

• • • • •

In collaboration with Children’s Ministry, we moved the 5th grade class into the Pathfinder Ministry, which has proven a huge success!

The Pathfinder and Exodus Ministry Fall Retreats were combined into a single Youth Fall Retreat – a wonderful time of worship, faith and fellowship for all.

Confirmation is scheduled to move from 8th grade to 9th grade in the fall of 2018.

This year also saw a wealth of opportunities for our Pathfinder and Exodus groups to enjoy fun, fellowship, prayer, Bible study and growth in service: Sunday school for Pathfinders and Exodus in the Powerhouse Pathfinders on Wednesday evenings in the Powerhouse Life Groups for high schoolers Amass Exodus every other Saturday Pathfinder Tournament of Awesomeness and Exodus 44 Hours of Fun Mission Trips • Dallas, TX to serve alongside Voice of Hope (4th straight year) • Exodus Mission Trip to Pine Ridge, South Dakota to serve the Lakota reservation Believe Conference Ski Trip 5th Grade Trip TINA Exodus Night

Our 2017 Ignite Interns were J.P. Schemmer, Melissa Davis, Lydia Elias, and Julia Elias. This intensive discipleship internship challenges high school students to work on “Head, Heart and Hands,” cultivating each of these to help realize the Kingdom of Heaven on earth.

Our 2017 Heather Davis Intern was Molly Inhofe. Molly helped plan and lead the Pathfinder mission trip, plan the Pathfinder Tournament of Awesomeness, and create a biblical timeline to hang in the Pathfinder Lounge. She also taught VBX and met with Kathleen Muller who acted as her spiritual mentor.

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UKIRK Ministry Report UKirk (University Church) is the university ministry of First Presbyterian Church seeking to share God’s love with students and invite them into a transformative relationship with the Triune God. UKirk continues to be led by Dan Hutchinson and the UKirk intern. Megan Stevens finished off an amazing year of faithful engagement with students in May before heading back to Chattanooga. In August, we were joined by Daniel Hebert.

A graduate of Baylor University, Daniel spent two years serving with youth in York, England. A passion for students and a love for Jesus permeates Daniel’s work. In all things, our hope is that we remain faithful to the calling of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Gateway Worship: Meets on Thursday nights in Sharp Chapel on TU’s campus for music, study, prayer, and fellowship. Last spring we completed a series on 1 Corinthians looking at “God’s Word for Our World.” This past fall, we reflected on the Sermon the Mount and the call to live as residents of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Our students love to worship, and it is always a joy to gather together.

DISCIPLESHIP

The Fall Retreat: In October, we headed to New Life Ranch in Colcord, OK for a great weekend of worship, fellowship, and team building. The theme was trusting God, and it was powerful to hear the honest conversation that resulted. Students also participated in Emmaus walks where they were paired with one another and were given time to walk and talk about faith and life and to pray with one another. As always, it is a gift to be disconnected from technology and surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation.

Summer Mission Trip: Last May, we spent the better part of a week serving at Goodland Academy, one of the longtime partners of this church. We worked alongside the staff to update some of the bunkhouses and a few of us even got to try our hand at construction, building a washroom off the back of one of the houses.

Praise God, everyone came back in one piece!

Bible Study: This past summer, we met on Thursday nights for dinner, worship, and conversation. It is always a gift to have our students back in town and I am so grateful to everyone who was willing to host and feed us over the summer!

Thanks so much to everyone who has reached out to our college students. College is a time of transition and our hope is that students would find a home in the First Church community as they seek to follow the Lord Jesus Christ. We are also entering into a period of discernment about College Ministry and ask for your prayers as we seek to be attentive to the will of God!

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Adult Discipleship “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Life Together. While reading the Bible, you may notice that Jesus never instructs us to go it alone in this journey of life. Quite the opposite, he demonstrates a beautiful model of gathering 12 friends to learn, love, and serve together. Over 2,000 years later the Lord Jesus is still inviting us into fellowship with him and one another. This year, First Church entered into a new chapter of small group ministry by launching 30 k groups during Lent. Dr. Ryan Moore, Pam Hillis, DD Blackman and their energetic team recruited over 350 people to sign up for k groups. The participants have shared beautiful stories about gaining a sense of belonging in the church, being cared for in sweet and gentle ways during a difficult season, finding a renewed interest in scripture, and spending time at table with friends.

DISCIPLESHIP

When brothers and sisters in Christ grow close to one another, they naturally share their experiences of how they have seen the Lord at work in their lives. This year during the Autobiographies of Grace we heard amazing stories of God’s faithfulness from Case Boshuizen, Sam Devore, Jeff Martinson, and Allen Waita and Juddy Kanyeki.

Growing in Knowledge & Faith. In the fall of 2017 we celebrated the 500th anniversary of the Reformation with a seven week lecture series on the five solas.

The pastors taught us what it means to be reformed and why it is still pertinent today. Earlier in the year, First Presbyterian Church hosted the Welch Lecture Series. Acclaimed Whitworth University theologians Dr. Jim Edwards and Dr. Adam Neder gave a fascinating look at the Reformation: “What Caused It?”, “What Did It Do for the Cause of Christ in the World?”, and “Where Are We 500 Years Hence?” And, adding the final icing on the cake, Warren Muller provided in-depth history and colorful details of the Reformation during his Monday School classes.

Offering theologically sound educational classes and speakers is an ongoing goal of the pastors and the Discipleship Committee. In March of 2017, Dr. Mateen Elass presented a theological short course called Reflections on Islam. Dr. Elass served as a Presbyterian Pastor for many years and now heads a ministry in Colorado Springs called Voice of Truth.

On any given week a member or guest can find a class to increase their knowledge and renew their faith. First Church pastors and lay leaders teach Sunday morning classes, Bible studies, and Wednesday Night Downtown classes. Dr. Jim Miller’s in depth teaching of the book of Revelation has been an enlightening and valuable study for those who committed an hour each Wednesday to understand the Word of God more fully.

“For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” – Revelation 7:17

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Adult Discipleship (cont.)

Rejoicing, Praying, and Giving Thanks. Over the past five years, more than 70 participants have taken a 30 week journey of prayer and spiritual exercises via the Ignatian Groups. In 2017, 104 First Church members filled 126 slots when they signed up to pray in 30-minute increments during the Holy Week Prayer Vigil.

More than 70 individuals have made the commitment to be Pray-ers, each praying for a list of seven members of the church every day. Each Sunday morning, a group of TIF members gather to pray for our church, our worship services, our members, and the guests who will visit that day.

The Discipleship Committee will continue to explore how to foster prayer throughout the congregation, and how to provide opportunities for study and fellowship with one another. There is indeed much reason to rejoice, pray, and give thanks.

First Ladies’ Council

Highlights for 2017: • • • • •

Encouraged active participation in women’s events and ministry groups Worked to improve communication between FPC women’s groups Hosted Sisters in Christ Trivia Night in February (2018 will be the 3rd year for this event, with an average of 60 attendees) Hosted roundtable meeting and dinner for women’s ministry leadership in September Hosted first FPC Women’s Christmas luncheon in partnership with Sisterhood of Widows in December

DISCIPLESHIP

First Ladies Council meets bi-monthly and provides an umbrella group for the women’s ministries of the church. Its purpose is to create, facilitate, communicate, support and unify the programs, ministries, and mission opportunities for women in furthering the stated vision of First Presbyterian Church (FPC) of Tulsa. The Council’s objectives are to develop an inclusive, united, and well-coordinated team to represent ministries and missions for women at FPC, to serve and act as one voice for women in FPC decision-making groups, and to provide opportunities for women to engage in FPC ministries and missions that promote spiritual growth, service and fellowship.

Future plans include: • Continue cooperative efforts with Tulsa International Fellowship • Encourage mentoring among women that is multi-generational, multi-cultural • Enhance promotion of women’s opportunities within the church • Recruit new members • Continue to host fellowship events for long-time and new church members

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Presbyterian Women The purpose of Presbyterian Women is to nurture faith through prayer and Bible study, to support the mission of the church locally and worldwide, and to build a caring community of women. In 2017, women among four Circles met monthly for Bible study and prayer, gave to mission, and enjoyed fellowship and food. January through May they finished the study “Who Is Jesus?” September through December they began the study “Cloud of Witnesses, The Community of Christ in Hebrews.”

Money was raised for missions worldwide through pledges, Birthday and Thank Offerings, Least Coin Offering, and Mother’s Day cards. The Mother’s Day cards were also supported by the congregation. The local missions supported by Presbyterian Women included Helping Hands, Emerson Elementary School, Day Center for the Homeless, Presbyterian Disaster Relief, Coffee Bunker, Lindsey House, Emergency Infant Services, and the Community Food Bank.

Bibles were given to the babies baptized into the church.

DISCIPLESHIP

The Project Ladies met to make baby blankets for Emergency Infant Services, lap robes for Circle care receivers, and many other items. All the Circles came together for four Gathering Luncheons. The Cluster Meeting, Spring Gathering, and Fall Workshop were attended by several of the women. Presbyterian Women hosted the annual Mother’s Day Tea event with many women attending.

Atrium Art A new initiative launched in 2017 by the FPC Aesthetics Committee, Atrium Art was designed to host world-class artists in a unique, faith-based setting. The program is managed by curators Whitney Forsythe and Holbrook Lawson, and works in partnership with other organizations to promote public art in downtown Tulsa, including the Urban Core Art Project.

Atrium Art opened in November with its first exhibit, Restore, featuring the work of Colorado-based artist Andrew Tirado. The exhibit was free and open to the public, and included a preview night with the artist, an open house kick off, and a first Friday art crawl. It was funded in part by a generous gift from the Harold and Edna White Foundation. Plans for future exhibitions are currently underway.

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History & Archives The History & Archives Committee collects, organizes and preserves the history and historical records of Tulsa’s first church.

The FPC historical collection serves the staff, congregation and larger community.

In 2017, we saw an increase in requests from graduate students, authors and family genealogists, as well as requests for legal documents. Joan Hoar serves as the History & Archives Chair, Vicky Wilcoxen serves as Archivist. A few highlights of 2017 include: • • • • • •

•

Member Care

DISCIPLESHIP

• •

Organized and completed office space design Hosted workshop with David Staniunas, Records Archivist, PC (USA) Distributed recordings of sermons and other special programs for the homebound Inventoried Bible collections in Miller Library, Kirkland Reference Library, and History & Archives room (developed archival program to record each Bible, including historical records/provenance) Met with Tulsa Historical Society to review proper storage and exhibition of procedures; protection and disposal of print materials; and legal requirements for borrowed items Provided 21 scheduled tours for 466 members and guests, including one invited art club presentation from Austin, Texas Organized specific exhibition training for Docent Ministry members Worked with Heritage Society members to acquire FPC family historical records Hosted annual H&A Volunteer Appreciation Dinner with guest speakers John Wooley and Doug Miller

The Member Care network of ministries helps provide resources to meet the unique spiritual, physical and emotional needs of our congregation. Dionna Schooley, Assistant to Pastoral Care, and Janie Long, Parish Visitor, are faithful servants to the care of church members.

“In the day of my trouble I call on you, for you will answer me.” Psalm 86:7 Stephen Ministry: The Stephen Ministry is a one-on-one, confidential ministry of care and encouragement. Stephen Ministers are members who are trained to intercede with those experiencing times of crisis. They are commissioned by the church and work with the pastoral staff for assignments, receiving ongoing education and supervision. These special care givers exercise the gifts of compassion, listening and prayer. They pray, extend spiritual and emotional support, and offer encouragement. The Stephen Ministry is chaired by Barbara Sanders.

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Member Care (cont.)

Women’s Ministries: Sisterhood of Widows is a group for FPC women with a focus on support and recovery that meets regularly to engage in different activities and encourage one another after the loss of a loved one. Sisters in Christ is a group of FPC women that meets socially throughout the year to enjoy fellowship and fun. Popular events include a trivia night, luncheons and more. Leadership is provided by Sheri Allen and Cathy Laird.

Faith Partners: Faith Partners ministry nurtures individuals and families with all types of addiction by offering compassion, sharing resources, providing education, and restoring hope and faith through the power of the Holy Spirit and the joy of recovery. This ministry meets regularly and is open to all. Patricia Hall serves as the Faith Partners Ministry layleader.

DISCIPLESHIP

Volunteer Hospital Chaplains: Members with the gift of compassion and ministry experience in a hospital setting can receive additional training to become hospital chaplains. These compassionate volunteers work with FPC pastors to ensure that all members who are hospitalized receive spiritual support, prayer and encouragement.

Please remember to put First Presbyterian church as your home church when you or a loved one is admitted to a hospital. This group is led by Hannah Robson.

Generational Care: Each month, the Retirees group meets in Miller Library for a lunch and lecture. The lectures feature guest speakers from all walks of life, and cover a variety of educational and informative topics specific to the interests of seniors and to senior living. All are welcome! Bob Simmons facilitates the group.

Telecare Ministry: The Telecare Ministry is a layperson phone ministry that provides support to members of our church family who have returned home from hospital stays or who live alone and need weekly or daily contact with the church.

These caring volunteers will visit with you, pray with you, and help address any questions or concerns you may have.

Pastoral Care: Pastoral care at First Presbyterian Church is an essential aspect of the ministry offered to our church members, as we seek to share God’s love and compassion. We provide care in times of illness, grief and other chapters of life.

Pastoral staff and church members offer prayers for healing, baptism, death and marriage.

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Guild of Intercessors “United Hearts Seeking the Power of God” The Guild of Intercessors is an ancillary organization providing intercessory prayer for First Church members. Believing prayer is powerful and life changing, eighty men and women are dedicated to daily prayer for those needing divine intervention.

During 2017, two new members were welcomed to the Guild. One Guild member, Freda Huckin, passed from this life to be with the Lord.

The Guild coordinates with the Pastoral Care office and the Member Care Committee regarding the needs of the congregation. A letter of prayer requests is prepared and forwarded each week to Guild members via email or regular mail. This letter is also shared with FPC pastors. Urgent requests are relayed to members through email and a telephone chain. Co-Editor Mark Peterson prepares a meditation for the weekly prayer letter. This segment was created to encourage and inspire members as they prepare for their quiet prayer time. The Guild publishes and distributes separate prayer lists for cancer patients and Armed Forces personnel. The military list is comprised of individuals currently serving on active duty who have a connection with specific First Church members.

In 2017, the Guild celebrated 72 years of interceding for FPC members and their families, friends, and colleagues. Larry Osterhout and his wife, Zenoma, were special guests at our annual luncheon in August. Larry shared the encouragement he received from a Guild member who told him 80 people would be praying for him during his heart surgery. Dr. Jim Miller, our featured speaker, reminded us that prayer is a dialogue with the Lord, and encouraged us to be attentive to the Holy Spirit’s promptings.

DISCIPLESHIP

The Guild coordinates the annual Easter Prayer Vigil. Mark and Paula Peterson continued to serve as chairs for the 2017 Prayer Vigil. Assistance was provided by the FPC support staff, Guild members, and other FPC members. Thirty-Four Guild members participated in the Prayer Vigil.

The following members provided leadership for the Guild of Intercessors during 2017: Paula Peterson, Guild Chairman and Co-Editor of the weekly prayer letter; Mark Peterson, Assistant Chairman for special projects and Co-Editor of the weekly prayer letter; Monte Prater, Assistant Chairman and Coordinator of the Guild Cancer List and the Guild Armed Forces List; and Patty Ball, Bereavement Coordinator.

Paula Peterson Guild Chairman

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MISSION

Missions

Budget 2017

Actual 2017

Budget 2018

$1,347,160

$1,346,996

$1,410,164

Local Mission Masterwork Academy: Masterwork Academy seeks to equip elementary students with training in Scripture, music, visual art, and ballet—all rooted in the Christian faith and the belief that we were created to be creative. Our key verse is Ephesians 2:10, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” This exciting, new after school ministry of First Presbyterian Church, Tulsa serves 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students from Anderson Elementary. The program runs Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:00 pm – 6:00 p.m. throughout the school year.

In its pilot year, Masterwork Academy held a two-week, all-day summer program that served 25 students. The program helped us “introduce” ourselves to the Anderson community and gave parents an additional two weeks of assistance as we began the Monday after TPS Summer School programs concluded.

MISSION

In the fall of 2017, Masterwork Academy welcomed 30 students to our after school program. In addition to our regular programming, we were able to take our students on two local field trips and host a ballet demonstration and open house. Through the semester, we saw trust and friendships grow, children experience the joy of exploration, the pride of accomplishment, and a desire to learn. Our pilot program concluded with Masterwork Academy’s Christmas party on December 19, 2017.

God has done great things and we believe He has more in store for these kids, our church, and this good work He has prepared beforehand for us to walk in!

Masterwork Academy employs six part-time staff members: Interim Executive Director, Program Director, Program Coordinator, Art Teacher, Dance Teacher, and Music Teacher. We also rely on the invaluable assistance of our enthusiastic volunteers.

Want to join the Masterwork team? We are looking for volunteers to serve as classroom helpers, teaching assistants, snack help, and administrative support. If you’re interested in learning more, please email cmiller@masterworkacademy.org or call 918-370-0207.

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Local Mission (cont.)

Emerson: The Lord is at work and ever present at Emerson Elementary through the loving arms of over 60 FPC lunch buddies and the caring and generous FPC family.

We faced a challenging year with the temporary relocation of the school five miles north of the old building and changes in the curriculum and staff. But the ministry is thriving and continues to serve the precious children at Emerson. Highlights from 2017 include: •

Two recruitment events, the Annual Chili Cook Off in January and the 2nd Annual Ping Pong Tournament, added 15 new lunch buddies that helped maintain a total of 60 plus mentors.

•

The second year of Emerson Community Nights (a total of 6 in 2017), provided Emerson families, friends and neighbors opportunities to enjoy fun, food and fellowship.

•

FPC partnered with Emerson PTA to provide volunteers, food, basket donations and Bingo prizes for their Fall Carnival, Spring Auction, Teacher Appreciation lunch, and Meet the Teacher/back to school events.

•

Several FPC members scheduled reading days to classes, help with test monitoring, after school clubs, career presentations, and help with their moving day to their temporary site.

•

Over the summer, FPC hosted an evening at a Drillers game with Emerson principal Tammy States throwing the first pitch.

•

FPC provided Sunday School donations, Presbyterian Women donations, help with uniforms and shoes for Emerson’s clothes closet, teacher supplies and items for winter through the GiftBack program.

•

Celebrating Christmas provided each Emerson student with a gift tote filled with presents and a warm jacket and Bible.

Awana--$160, Crisis Pregnancy Outreach--$184, Emerson Elementary--$659, Helping Hand Ministry--$965, ChosenIMA--$509, Meals on Wheels--$1,344, The Outreach Foundation--$725, Petra Kids Ministries--$660, Tulsa Boys Home--$550, Works of HeART $175, Masterwork Academy--$420, and Romanian Evangelistic Medical Mission--$350.

MISSION

GiftBack Mission Market: Through the GiftBack ministry, FPC partners with organizations around the world. People “purchase” needed items at the GiftBack table and the money donated towards these items is then sent to the organizations to be used for that purpose. Upon “purchasing” the items, FPC members receive a card they can give to a friend or loved one indicating that a gift was given to one of our partner organizations in their honor. In 2017, a total of $6,664 was donated through GiftBack. Financial support was provided to the following organizations:

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Local Mission (cont.)

H2O Project / Marion Medical Mission: Through your generosity, the H2O Project raised $1,348, which paid for three wells to be dug and maintained with the help of Marion Medical Mission. These wells provide clean, safe drinking water to villagers throughout Malawi, Zambia and Tanzania.

Helping Hand Golf Tournament: Thanks to Joe Land, who champions the organization and recruitment for this effort. The 2017 Helping Hand Golf Tournament raised $30,310.00 to help local Tulsans in need.

Kairos: Kairos Prison Ministry brings the compassion and hope of Jesus to people in prison. FPC members paid more than 50 visits in 2017 to share Christ’s love with inmates at Mabel Bassett Women’s Penitentiary and the Eddie Warrior Correctional Facility.

Lindsey House: In 2017, FPC gave $2,882 to support Lindsey House’s day-to-day operations.

American Red Cross: Ready When the Time Comes (RWTC) is a partnership with the Red Cross that provides disaster response in Tulsa and the surrounding area. A team of 22 FPC members are trained and certified to respond. In May, team members helped deliver water to victims of flooding in the Tahlequah area.

Members of the RWTC team also assisted in two successful blood drives for the Red Cross at FPC, one in May and another in October.

MISSION

Works of HeArt, Tulsa Day Center for the Homeless: The Works of HeART art program meets weekly at the Tulsa Day Center for the Homeless. Volunteers provide the love of Christ, encouragement and inspiration for all who attend. Activities include jewelry-making, watercolor and acrylic painting, crocheting and knitting, sculpture, collage, colored pencil and charcoal drawing; and special projects led by guest artists, such as tie-dyed clothing and painting instruction.

Meals on Wheels: The Meals on Wheels Ministry serves the community by delivering meals to individuals who are homebound or in need of assistance.

Following Jean Gent’s retirement in 2017, Jill Metcalf was named MOW Coordinator at First Church. The ministry is strong and flourishing, with all routes covered by permanent drivers and substitute drivers providing support as needed. In addition to the regular Monday, Wednesday and Friday meal deliveries, special meal deliveries with poinsettias donated by Cohlmia’s, were made on Thanksgiving and at Christmas.

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Global Mission Romania Evangelical Medical Mission: Beius, Romania: In July, we celebrated the arrival of two more Casa Joseph girls as they joined their families and our FPC family in Tulsa! In late July/early August, Elizabeth Devore and Jaclyn Metcalf traveled to Romania to serve REMM in country to spend time with the remaining Casa Joseph girls, take supplies to rural families in need, visit the walnut tree orchards and share God’s story in churches around the area. In September, Andrea and Alex, two friends from REMM in Romania, visited Tulsa and FPC. In December, REMM celebrated the complete and finalized adoption of two Casa Joseph girls, who arrived home in NYC for Christmas. We continue to pray for the last girl who awaits the finalization of her adoption and hopes to be home in Washington, D.C. by Easter, 2018. As the Casa Joseph facility ceases to be used as an orphanage, REMM is praying and seeking God’s plan and His will for that space.

Synod of Livingstonia, Northern Malawi: In August, Dr. Levi Nyondo, General Secretary of the Synod of Livingstonia, arrived in Tulsa to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the partnership between the Synod of Livingstonia and Eastern Oklahoma Presbytery. A worship service and meal were hosted by Southminster Presbyterian Church.

In November, the Presbytery hosted a pastor delegation from the Synod of Livingstonia. Rev. James Estes led the team organizing the visit, which included visits to 12 EOP churches and a spiritual retreat at Dwight Mission. The delegation also took part in a number of FPC programs and ministries; two were blessed to attend the Hutchinson/Howard wedding.

Ministries in the Synod supported by First Church include the Bandawe Presbytery and its Secondary School for Girls.

MISSION

Chosen IMA: St Luke Medical Center, Valladolid, Mexico: Chosen IMA provides medical/surgical services and biblical outreach to underserved populations. In partnership with local pastors and churches, Chosen IMA seeks to establish systems that help villagers get the healthcare they need. In 2017, First Church sponsored an annual fundraising dinner with silent auction that raised $10,000 for this mission partnership. These funds will be used to defray costs of mission trips as well as support programs at Centro Medico San Lucas, such as “adopt a patient,” which pays for patient surgeries, transportation to and from the hospital, and a village home building project.

The National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon: First Church sent two of our own, Pam Hillis and DD Blackman, to continue exploring our growing relationship with the Church in the Middle East.

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Global Mission (cont.)

“It is only through ministering to people outside the walls of the church that the Christ in our worship becomes a living Christ in the midst of the people. Meeting people through their pain and need is the greatest opportunity for us to experience discipleship. By going outside the walls of our churches, we are actually strengthening the spiritual life of the Church inside. And in such a catastrophic situation as Syria, helping the poor and feeding the hungry becomes a relevant message to the public: ‘Yes! We have a God who cares!’”

-- Rev. Joseph Kassab, General Secretary, NESSL

MISSION

Petra Kids Ministries: Lira, Uganda: This has been a remarkable year for Petra Kids Ministries. The 2017 PKM Annual Banquet supported by FPC hosted over 200 guests in Stephenson Hall. A total of $30,000 was raised, which went towards the addition of a new Shallow Water Well, an increase of student scholarships to 63, the building of a wall/fence that is 50% completed, and the completion of the first phase of the teacher’s housing compound called the Philippians 4:4 Building. PKM has grown dramatically this year due to the bountiful contributions of individuals from all over the country. Our board has also grown this year, and our goals for 2018 are based on increasing outreach to the greater community to expand awareness and support for our mission.

Literacy and Evangelism International: In 2017, LEI celebrated its 50th year of ministry, having been founded in August, 1967 by Dr. Robert F. Rice. An anniversary celebration at Gilcrease Museum was attended by over 200, including Dr. Jim Miller. Worldwide, LEI missionaries and partners trained 15,522 literacy and English teachers, and graduated 26,849 new Bible readers. LEI also launched a Spanish-language version of its website this year. Dr. Melina Gallo joined LEI as a missionary candidate and Director of Global Distance Learning, developing online and interactive training courses which will greatly increase our worldwide impact.

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Foreign Missionaries Supported by First Church Taylor and Allison Martyn: It has been amazing to see God working around the world in the area of Bible translation.

Getting to know and share stories from translation teams while leading the video team has been such an honor. What a joy it is to read God’s word in our own language, and to see another translation make it possible for others to read it in theirs! It’s also been fun working with nonChristians and nominal believers in my work. Exposing them to Christian themes as we script videos, they often comment that the work has caused them to grow through these interactions, reconsider their faith, and take it more seriously. This year was a difficult one for Kenya due to an extended election season filled with underlying tension and demonstrations that were not always peaceful. We thank God that, all things considered, it went better than many had feared. We saw churches serve as a stable force calling for peace during a turbulent political season.

Dr. James Kigamwa: In 2017, I was privileged to serve in literacy ministries in the U.S., Kenya, Ghana, Malawi, Benin, and Togo. Those trained are involved in literacy ministries in local languages and in English in at least twelve countries. Pray that the seeds of literacy work will grow to produce a great harvest of Bible readers.

Thank you for your partnership in prayer and giving, which enables this work to be done.

MISSION

Darren and Elisabeth Kennedy: First, we praise God for a great first semester and January term. Our students worked hard, learned tremendously and are growing in wonderful ways. Two visiting scholars in January offered a course on Ecumenism and another on Palestinian Interpretation of the Old Testament. Both are important topics for future leaders in our part of the world. Second, please continue to pray for safety and security for Middle Eastern Christians. While we are very grateful that New Year’s and Christmas celebrations were safe, the past year has been extremely hard on people with far too much loss of life and violence at the hands of terrorism.

Finally, we praise God for a wonderful year as a family. The boys continue to flourish in school and, while we all have a busy second semester ahead of us, we are grateful to be doing the things we are doing here in Egypt. Thank you again for your partnership with us in the Gospel. We are very grateful for you and your support.

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Financial Partnership Ministry of Hope: Ministry of Hope exists to glorify God by reaching out to orphans, widows, the disabled and destitute with the gospel of Jesus Christ. The six MOH care centers fed over 4,000 children daily in December as the lean season began. That same month, the two crisis nurseries in Lilongwe and Mzuzu cared for 23 babies. A total of 169 high school students received scholarships to attend secondary school that they otherwise could not afford, and 56 students received college scholarships. Ministry of Hope also provides medical care through their mobile medical clinics, making monthly visits to each of the six care centers and provide much needed medical assistance. First Church gave $1,000 to support the important work of Ministry of Hope in 2017.

Evangelical Theological Seminary of Cairo: The past year at Evangelical Theological Seminary of Cairo (ETSC) has been an exciting one! We have seen students grow in knowledge, and graduates thrive in their ministries. This year, ETSC launched online coursework to increase the number of students that the seminary can serve. Faculty and staff have embraced the learning of new skills with dedication and enthusiasm. While the Church in Egypt continues to face challenges, ETSC students and alumni minister in the name of Christ throughout the country every day.

Crisis Pregnancy Outreach: Crisis Pregnancy Outreach appreciates our support and prayers. In 2017 First Church supported CPO through the GiftBack Ministry.

The Outreach Foundation: Through the ministry of The Outreach Foundation, FPC gave $10,000 for the support of Syrian refugees. For more information, read the Spring/Summer 2017 newsletter at theoutreachfoundation.org.

MISSION

Tulsa Boys Home: In 2017, First Church gifted the Tulsa Boys Home with 45 NIV Bibles, including five Spanish/English bibles. Members of FPC also toured the Tulsa Boys’ Home and one representative attended their annual fundraising luncheon. There is much to celebrate in the renewed interest and energy for this historic mission partner!

Goodland Academy: FPC gave $2,000 to support Goodland Academy this year.

In addition to its important work of caring for at risk children, Goodland Academy hosted the retreat for the 2016-2017 confirmands in the spring.

Dwight Mission Camp and Conference Center: Dwight Mission saw the Lord at work through our campers, guests and staff in 2017 and was fully committed to faithful service throughout the year. Visit dwightmission.org for more information about our services and facilities. Program Director is Dylan Brumley.

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Outreach & Growth Under the leadership of Jenette McIntire, 2017 was a fruitful year for the Outreach team: Breadwinner Team: The Breadwinner Team delivered a fresh loaf of bread and information about the church to 100 households. This is up by 15%! Bless this faithful team.

Carols & Cocoa: Outreach hosted several hundred adults and children at this year’s Carols & Cocoa event following the Christmas Parade. More than 50 volunteers and staff greeted guests, served over 700 cups of cocoa in the courtyard, and provided musical entertainment in Stephenson Hall.

Global Leadership Summit: On August 10-11, 2017, FPC hosted its seventh Global Leadership Summit, with approximately 165 attendees gathered for lectures, fellowship, inspiration and leadership training cultivated in a Christ-centered environment.

Greeters: Mary Surface faithfully led us into the 21st century with a new system for greeter sign up, timetosignup.com/fpcgreeters. Linda Hunter diligently called new members to serve as greeters – a perfect way for them to meet fellow congregants!

Hospitality: Janet Bull led the way with beautiful receptions and providing oversight to the many ways we use the Atrium for hospitality.

Inquirers’ Class: It was with great joy that we welcomed 57 new members in 2017!

January Series: It was a year of transition in 2017, as we bid farewell to Event Chair Krista Schaffsma, whose efforts first brought The January Series to FPC. This year’s series boasted an average of 42 people a day for 15 days.

LeaderTalks: New in 2017, the LeaderTalks luncheon series brings people in our community together to listen, learn and grow in Christian leadership. LeaderTalks features content curated from past presentations of The January Series and Global Leadership Summit.

MISSION

8:10 and Bernsen: Coffee carts and candy baskets were delivered to both locations in an effort to reach out to our neighbors and increase awareness about all First Church has to offer.

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Camp Loughridge Nearing 100 years as a Christian campsite under the careful stewardship of the Holy Spirit, Camp Loughridge and its staff reveal the love of Jesus Christ in God’s natural creation. Established in 1919 as YWCA Camp Parthenia by a leading member of First Church, the impact of this urban outpost is actively felt today, with year-round programming designed to serve many needs. Camp Loughridge offers awakening and renewal of spirit to over 7,000 guests, and includes VBS/VBX, Classic Camps and Outdoor Classroom, weddings, retreats and more.

Troop 1

MISSION

This year, First Church re-registered Troop 1 with 56 Scouts and 72 Adult Leaders, maintaining our tradition of having the longest continuously chartered Troop in Oklahoma. The troop performed more than 1,400 hours of community service in Tulsa, with 84 service hours at Zink Park to help the city with maintenance during a season of tight budgets (we are in the process of adopting Zink Park as an annual project). The troop followed its tradition of camping each month, with 10 regularly scheduled monthly campouts and 5 High Adventure programs. Seven of our best young men became Eagle Scouts in 2017; other scouts earned a combination of 46 full rank advancements and 226 merit badges to move farther along the Trail to Eagle.

Monthly Campouts: • January trip to Trapper’s Rendezvous at Wichita, KS (cancelled, ice storm) • February ski trip to Winterpark, CO • March, camping at the Wichita Mt Wildlife Refuge at Indiahoma, OK • April float trip to the Illinois River, Tahlequah (cancelled, campsite flooded) • May camping and shooting sports at Mayes County Deer Ranch, Murphy, OK • August family picnic and back to school event, Tulsa • September canoe races and water sports, Camp Loughridge, Tulsa • October District Camporee, Camp Garland, Locust Grove, OK • November wilderness survival campout at Dead Woman’s Gulch, near Welling, OK • December obstacle course and hand grenade practice at Greenleaf State Park & Camp Gruber

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Troop 1 (cont.)

High Adventure Programs: • Camp Tom Hale, resident camp near Talihina, OK ( Jun 11-17) • Boundary Waters Canoe Base, Eli, MN ( July 22-29) • Durango Area, backpacking & camping, Durango, CO ( Jul 30-Aug 6) • Hermit Peak, backpacking & camping, Pecos Wilderness, Las Vegas, NM ( Jul 30-Aug 5) • Camp Tom Hale, Christmas Break Winter Camp (Dec 27-30) 2017 Eagle Scouts: • David Grigsby, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Grigsby • Jeremiah Tiews, son of Rev/Dr. and Mrs. Christian Tiews • Kyle Mathis, son of Mr. and Mrs. Steve Mathis • Kale Keeling, son of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Keeling • Grant Marshall, son of Mr. and Mrs. Cary Marshall; grandson of Phil and Betty Marshall • Miles Capehart, son of Heather Capehart; grandson of Bob and Diana Capehart • Christian Luessenhop, son of Dr. and Mrs. Christian Luessenhop Current First Church Elder, Amy Scheiper, is beginning her first year as Session Liaison and wise counsel to the Troop. We thank Dick Campbell for his friendship and service as Session Liaison for the last 3 years. First Church Deacon, Ron Hart, is beginning his tenth year as Scoutmaster of Troop 1.

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First Presbyterian Church Tulsa, Oklahoma

Annual Report 2017

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