Tidings Fall 2024

First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa

VOL. 69, NO. 3 - FALL 2024

“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross.”

- HEBREWS 12:2 Ronda and John Roush with Ron Pearson showcasing the Kerr Chapel decorative organ pipes, p. 8

In this issue:

Realizing God delights in you - p. 3

Thank you Gary Mathews - p. 4

God-given vs.

God-chosen family - p.12

Fall 2024 Vol. 69, No. 3

Realizing God delights in you ...................... 3 THE MESSAGE THAT DRAWS OTHERS TO CHRIST

AWANA Clubs

By Rev. Dan Hutchinson, Interim pastor

Thank You, Gary Mathews........................ 4 GARY LEAVES A LEGACY OF TENACITY, FAITH AND SERVICE

By Paul Marsh, First Church Communications

Wednesday Night Downtown

Camp Sunshine

Following Christ’s example......................... 5 SERVE WITH HUMILITY

By Duff Points, Executive Director of Adult Ministries

Reunion and renewal in Ireland................. 6 FIRST CHURCH MISSION TEAM SERVES DONEMANA AND GALWAY WITH LOVE

By Jaclyn Metcalf

The new decorative Kerr Chapel organ pipes........................... 8

Breakfast on Boston

VISUALLY PROCLAIMING THE MESSAGE OF HOPE AND FAITH

By Carol Elrod

Biblical literacy and community.. ............. 10 LEARNING TOGETHER STRENGTHENS FAITH AND RELATIONSHIPS

By Nick McMillan, Co-chair of Communion Committee

Young Adult Bible Study

Ron Pearson’s 50th Anniversary Banquet

God-given vs. God-chosen family................12 TULSA INTERNATIONAL FELLOWSHIP CELEBRATES 15 YEARS

By Paul Mungai, TIF 2024 Board Secretary & Elder

Parish Register....................................... 14

NEW MEMBERS AND MORE

Provided by Emma Myatt, Director of New Member Outreach and Kathy Wilson, Ministry Assistant to Member Care Ping Pong with a Purpose

Realizing God delights in you THE MESSAGE THAT DRAWS OTHERS TO CHRIST

By Rev. Dan Hutchinson Have you ever noticed that Jesus says some pretty crazy things?

Sometimes I read the words of Jesus, and I take them in, but I don’t always process what they mean. Take, for example, Luke 15:7. Jesus has just told the parable of the lost sheep that is found by the shepherd. He then states, “Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over the ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.”

Just think about that for a moment. What is it that brings joy to heaven? What is it that causes the sphere of God’s goodness and glory and presence to break forth into songs of praise? What brings delight to the heart of God? I love the use of the word “joy.” As I read this from Jesus, the image that comes to mind is the smile on my kids’ faces when I come home from work. They are usually out in the back yard at that time of evening, or in the kitchen and living room, but when the door opens and they realize that I have come home, there is a shout of joy followed by the pitter patter of little feet as three little persons come pell-melling into my arms.

They rejoice because Dad is home. (Hanna and I talk about how it really is not fair that

the parent who is away gets a far better response than the parent who is with them hour after hour!)

What strikes me is that this same joy that a child takes in their parent’s return, the joy that we see in spouses reunited after time apart, in the picture of a soldier returning from serving on the front lines, together with loved ones at last, that all of these, in some small way, give us a glimpse into Heaven’s joy! The delight of heaven is the return of the sinner into the family of God! Let me offer two thoughts on what this means for us.

First, it means that God delights in you!

Each of us here is a sinner saved by grace.

There are no exceptions. In this, heaven delights! In you, God rejoices! God rejoices like a father whose son has returned after years away. God rejoices like a child who delights in the family being together.

And my encouragement is to take joy in the One who takes joy in you! Delight yourself in the Lord, says the Psalmist. Commit your way to Him! Take joy in the cross of Christ. Let Christ’s death and resurrection, this incredible gift of love, be your joy, your delight, your strength, your confidence, and your hope.

Yet second, this also means that God

delights in the people around you. God’s deep desire is to see sinners returning to the One who made them. God’s deep desire is to heal the broken, to restore the destitute.

God’s deep delight is to see strangers becoming children through faith in Christ.

The invitation is for us to delight in the things that delight God. The challenge is to have our hearts and desires shaped and molded so that they look like the heart and desires of our God. C.S. Lewis puts it this way: “The Church exists for nothing else but to draw men into Christ, to make them little Christs. If they are not doing that, all the cathedrals, clergy, missions, sermons, even the Bible itself, are simply a waste of time.”

This is why we are here. This is why God has placed us in our communities, in our places of work...we are here to be His witnesses. We are here to draw people into Christ. We are here to invite others to know and step into the joy of heaven! This is the holy privilege of the church.

I am honored and blessed to pursue this calling together.

FALL 2024 / PAGE 3

Thank You, Gary Mathews GARY LEAVES A LEGACY OF TENACITY, FAITH AND SERVICE

By Paul Marsh, First Church Communications

Gary Mathews has been a true example of quiet servant leadership at First Presbyterian Church since 1991, embodying faithfulness, patience and steadfastness. He has moved to Arkansas to be closer to family and leaves behind a legacy that will inspire the congregation of First Church for years to come.

Born and raised in Rothville, Missouri, as the youngest of 11 children, Gary’s early years consisted of life in a seven-room house on a dirt farm. All the Mathews children attended the University of Missouri, working hard to pay their own way through college.

Gary’s strong sense of responsibility was instilled early as he followed in his brothers' footsteps, earning the rank of Eagle Scout and later serving in the military.

After graduating college, Gary joined Skelly Oil Company in Kansas City, where his career led him to Tulsa in 1962. It was in Tulsa that Gary met Jimmie, the love of his life. They were married in the summer of 1963 and moved to Olympia, Washington where Gary began his service in the U.S. Army at Fort Lewis. With top security clearance in the Army Security Agency, Gary’s military career took a pivotal turn in 1965 FALL 2024 / PAGE 4

when he was deployed to Vietnam. As his 91-year-old woman, struck Gary like a divine ship sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge, reminder: “I’m with you from beginning to he reflected on the shared doubts and end.” Jimmie passed away in February 2020. apprehensions his older brothers had also Experiences at First Church marked a experienced as they faced the uncertainties turning point in his spiritual life, and soon of military service abroad.

Gary became more deeply involved. From Throughout his deployment, Gary felt serving as Clerk of Session, Recording God’s protection and presence guiding him Clerk, or Acting Clerk for 17 years, to being a through challenging times. He returned steady presence in the choir, the memorial home to Tulsa just in time for Christmas service greeting team and helping with in 1965.

Home Communion, Gary’s love for the Upon his return, Gary resumed his work church and its members was evident in at Skelly Oil and Jimmie, who had rented every task he undertook. them a house at Third and Yale, resumed In the introduction to Gary’s Autobiography teaching in Tulsa. His career flourished, of Grace in 2019, the late Robbie Burke, who eventually spanning 49 years between Skelly served with Gary as Co-Clerk of Session, Oil, public accounting (KPMG), American Airlines and Williams.

Throughout his professional journey, Gary was grateful to have found mentors who helped him navigate not only his successes but also times of trial.

In 1991, Gary and Jimmie began attending First Presbyterian because it was a large church where they could worship quietly in the background. For five years, they did just that. But a deeply moving experience during a baptism, where Dr. Jim Miller Gary with his antique telephone. This type of phone used to connect multiple families on a single line. Each household had a unique ring, and all conversations baptized both an infant and a could be overheard by anyone on the line.

reflected, “Gary’s last name is spelled with one ‘t’ and not two. And I believe that is on purpose because he wears the other ‘t’ through life.

And to me that other ‘t’ stands for tenacious.

According to Webster's Dictionary, tenacious is defined as ‘holding fast, holding stoutly to one’s purpose.’ ” Robbie continued, “He arrives at the church every Sunday morning at 7:30 a.m. to make sure that everything is in place for the day and to help with the 8:30 a.m. service. He has his hand on everything going on in this church and probably has a spreadsheet or graph to share, Jimmie and Gary Mathews in addition. One of the amazing things is to see him arrive at a Nominating Committee meeting with his laptop, a printer, a spreadsheet, and the extras: extra reading glasses for everyone to share, a stapler, paper clips, paper markers, and computer gizmos.”

Amy Scheiper, who worked with Gary on Session, noted: “Gary Mathews has the heart of a father toward the Congregation of First Church. He guides wisely, encourages readily, and loves truly each and every member.

His tireless efforts on our behalf as the Clerk of Session, his commitment to the Choir, his loving regard toward Christ’s flock, and his unwavering faith stand as an example to me of how best to love our Lord.”

“He guides wisely, encourages readily, and loves truly each and every member.”

– Amy Scheiper, previous Co-Clerk of Session

Reflecting on Gary’s contributions, Kathy Wilson, Ministry Assistant to Member Care, adds, “I will always appreciate Gary’s patient guidance as I learned how to negotiate all the various statistical data and reports required

by PCUSA, Presbytery and Session. When I made mistakes, Gary was always so sweet about it and always had some encouraging words for me.

I came to deeply appreciate his heart for service, his unshakeable calmness, and quiet faith as I worked with him coordinating Home Communion and the Memorial Service Greeting Team. Gary’s kind and caring nature radiates from him, making him the perfect first person for grieving family members to see when they enter the church. What a privilege it’s been to get to know Gary and to call him friend.”

Gary often reflects on Rev. Dr. Richard C. Halverson’s benediction: “Wherever you are, God has put you there. He has a purpose in your being there. Christ, who indwells in you, has something He wants to do through you. Believe this, and go in His grace, and love and power.” We are so very grateful that God brought Gary to First Church!

Families at Breakfast on Boston 2024 answered the call and signed up to serve the church using their gifts and talents.

Follow Christ’s example to serve with humility

By Duff Points, Executive Director of Adult Ministries John 13:12-15 says, “After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had reclined again, he said to them, ‘Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you.’”

As the hour approached when Jesus would be captured and crucified, he gathered his apostles for a final meal and message. Part of his message was demonstrating what it looks like to humble oneself and serve someone else’s needs. In love and selflessness, we are to follow the example that Jesus set for us.

Sometimes we struggle with how we can best follow his lead and may ask ourselves: “How has he gifted me to serve?”

“Where is he calling me to give of my time, talent and treasure?”

“Are there some church ministries that would be a good match for me?”

“Are there some mission endeavors in Tulsa or globally that I could jump into?”

“How can I shine His light in my neighborhood, workplace, and city?”

Sojourners Sunday School Party to honor Gary’s move to Arkansas in August 2024.

If you are asking those questions, you are ready to pick up your towel, pull out a basin, and wash some feet! Take some time to pray and journal. Read the book of Acts for some real-life apostolic inspiration. Talk with a pastor or staff member to gather some possible ideas. Take a quiz on your spiritual gifts or your strengths. Sign up to help with a care ministry or mission project. After completion, try a few more. Pay attention to how the Holy Spirit is nudging you and where you feel a lift in your heart. When you discover that lift, you will know the true joy of serving.

FALL 2024 / PAGE 5

Reunion and renewal in Ireland FIRST CHURCH MISSION TEAM SERVES DONEMANA AND GALWAY WITH LOVE

By Jaclyn Metcalf

Our summer mission trip was a heartwarming reunion and a outreach event. The connections made that day were invaluable, chance for new friendships. A team of 13 journeyed to Donemana, and it was a blessing to serve as the hands and feet that Discovery Northern Ireland, to serve the community of First Presbyterian Church Tuam needed.

Church of Donemana. We spent a week hosting vacation Bible During our stay, we also explored Galway, spent time with school for over 35 wonderful children, joining the Men's Shed for Pastor Paul of Discovery Church, learned about Gaelic football, a scenic countryside walk, chatting with curious local teenagers, and visited the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, a stunning testament and visiting congregants in their homes. We also enjoyed time with to God's creation!

Pastor Seth and his lovely family and Throughout this trip, God’s explored the stunning northern coast presence was undeniable. The most and the historic city of Londonderry, beautiful aspect was the relationships walking its ancient walls. that flourished from these new After some travel logistics, 11 of partnerships. When First Church Tulsa us took a bus to Galway on Ireland’s visited these two churches in 2023, it west coast to partner with Discovery was only for a few days each.

Church. In Tuam, a town near Galway We returned in 2024, half the where Discovery Church has a threegroup were returning members and year-old church plant, we engaged the other half were newcomers. This in street ministry—handing out food allowed us to reconnect with those bags, greeting surprised passersby, we met last year. It was a testament to and worshiping in the streets. In the the fellowship we share in Christ and afternoons, we facilitated a music the sense of family among believers.

2024 Ireland Mission Team included Dr. Laura and Steve Krohn, Dr. Tom camp with the Discovery Church Additionally, the relationships between Philp, Jaclyn Metcalf, John & Adriana Donnelly, Ben Peterson, Rev. Roxie Sullivan, Laurel, Eric, Joy and Callan Baird, and Rev. James & Simeon Estes. team, teaching piano and guitar, and First Church team members grew discussing how God inspires us to stronger through shared moments of use our talents. It was a lively experience with more children than cooking, eating, playing, and praying together. These were sweet, instruments, requiring a lot of daily adaptability! By the end of the life-giving experiences that fostered a true sense of community. All week, we invited the children and their families to a worship service, these relationships are ordained by God, and continuing to grow and followed by a community barbecue, marking the church's first major invest in them will be a blessing to us all. To God be the Glory!

FALL 2024 / PAGE 6

St. Columb's Cathedral is the oldest building within the City of Londonderry.

The mission team leads worship and performs street ministry In Tuam as Rev. James Estes’ delivers a message to initiate conversation with residents.

Rev. Roxie Sullivan leading the Holiday Bible Club lesson for the children in Donemana.

Members of the mission team leading worship at Discovery Church in Tuam.

Kids learning guitar in a music class in Tuam led by the mission team.

The mission team spending time with church members in Donemana.

Eric Baird and Rev. James Estes with the pastors and leaders at Discovery Church.

Building connections and strengthening relationships in Donemana.

Rev. James Estes leading worship at First Presbyterian Church in Donemana.

FALL 2024 / PAGE 7

The new decorative Kerr Chapel organ pipes VISUALLY PROCLAIMING THE MESSAGE OF HOPE AND FAITH

By Carol Elrod When most of us think of organ pipes, it’s unlikely that we toes and caps harmonize well with the woodwork of the grilles, associate them with our sense of sight. Rather, we think of the pews, wainscoting, and ceiling beams. beautiful music that resounds from them that is, literally, music to Ronda’s actual process of painting each pipe involved multiple our ears. tedious steps, beginning with gently cleaning each pipe, taping But, visiting Kerr Chapel, you will observe that we have been off the areas not to be painted, spraying automotive primer, blessed with both a magnificent acoustic instrument as well as a hand brushing multiple coats of paint, meticulously crafting visual artistic jewel. the decorative elements of the Cross and the Crown, applying With the acquisition of a new organ in additional hand-brushed coats of paint to fill Kerr Chapel, Director of Music Ministries in negative spaces and add details, and then Ron Pearson realized there was the creating a special final touch that carries opportunity to showcase a set of 20 regreat meaning. purposed “heritage pipes” from the old In crafting that last embellishment, Ronda’s organ to maintain a historic link to the past. research led her to the historical fact that J.S. These pipes are displayed in the wood grilles Bach often wrote the initials “JJ” at the beginning on either side of the pulpit, bringing back of his compositions. These are the first letters of an aspect of organ design that was popular the Latin words Jesu Juva (Jesus Help), indicating for centuries and is now showing a return to that he was asking for divine assistance and popularity. inspiration as he began writing new music.

To begin this process, Ron was introduced He also is known to have written the initials to well-known local artist Ronda Roush, “SDG” (Soli Deo Gloria) on the final page of his who enthusiastically agreed to create this compositions, underneath his written signature. decorative element. They wanted the final Ronda found an internet source with a photo of a product to include Christian symbols, and surviving manuscript of Bach with these initials. to coordinate with the Chapel’s existing She placed the “JJ” on the pipe furthest to the color palette. Ron and Ronda met many left and the “SDG” on the pipe furthest to the Tulsa artist, Ronda Roush, designed and painted the decorative pipes to include the symbols of the times to discuss the design for the pipes. right. In addition, she added these initials Christian faith and coordinate with the Chapel's They decided upon the Cross, representing in exactly the same stylized letters as Bach existing color palette.

Jesus’ death on the cross, and the Crown, himself wrote on his manuscripts. representing His Resurrection and Lordship over the world.

Once the exquisite pipes were completed, David Perkins, The color scheme chosen for the pipes reflects the Chapel décor. an expert woodworker, was brought in for the challenging The silver/gray base color is found in the floor tiles; the red and blue task of designing and building a network of wooden collars match the quatrefoils in the hanging lanterns; and the gold items that support the pipes and hold them in place.

FALL 2024 / PAGE 8

The art pipes were completed in December 2023, after over two years of planning, designing, revising and painting.

Special thanks to First Church Tulsa member David Perkins for designing and crafting the woodwork to support and hold the pipes in place.

The beautifully painted artwork on the pipes depict the Cross, representing Jesus’ death on the cross, and the Crown, representing His Resurrection and Lordship over the world.

David enlisted the help of First Church member Bob Farris, an accomplished woodworker in his own right, to assist with the final step of installation.

Both Ron and Ronda found great inspiration and meaning in bringing this incredible endeavor to its completion. Ronda states, “The Cross and the Crown sequence are never-ending in our lives. We endure hard things, but, as Christians, we can be thankful it ends ultimately with the crown.” Ron concludes, “I hope that these pipes will provide not only enjoyment for their artistic qualities but also a reminder of the two primary events in Christian history and doctrine.”

The term “speech” refers to the sound produced by organ pipes when played. These repurposed heritage pipes, while no longer able to “speak” musically, now convey a profound message through their decorative art. Adorned with symbols of salvation, the cross and crown, these pipes have gained a new voice. Though silent, they now tell a vivid story of faith and redemption, transforming their purpose from sound to visual storytelling, reminding us of the beauty and depth of the Christian journey.

So, next time you’re in the Chapel, perhaps you might have both eyes and ears to receive this message of great hope and faith.

The left pipe features “JJ” (Jesu Juva), Bach’s prayer for divine assistance at the start of his compositions,, while the right pipe displays “SDG” (Soli Deo Gloria), his dedication to God's glory. Both inscriptions use Bach’s original stylized lettering.

Artist Ronda Roush explains the meaning of the artistic pipes.

From the artist

What the cross and crown mean to me.

To alternate the cross and the crown repeatedly began to illustrate Jesus’ message in Matthew 16:24: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves, take up their cross and follow me.” The crown is coming, but the cross must come first. In life, I often want to skip over the cross and go straight to the crown. But just when the crown arrives, another cross soon follows, and I am faced with the choice to follow Him—or not. This is a daily decision.

Every time I started a new “cross” pipe, the message came back to me: whatever stands between Jesus and me must go. He must be first in every area of my life. The “crown” pipes I connected with Philippians 3:10: “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death." In this life, the sequence of the cross and the crown is never-ending. We endure hardships, but as Christians, we can be grateful that it ultimately ends with the crown. He lives, and so do we. Great is His faithfulness. "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever." (Revelation 11:15) This is the message of the “art in the pipes” to my heart. I sincerely hope that when others see them, they too will have “ears” to hear this message.

Like J.S. Bach finished each of his works, I agree: JJ (Jesu Juva, “Jesus Helped Me!”) and SDG (Soli Deo Gloria, “To the Glory of God Alone!”).

FALL 2024 / PAGE 9

Biblical literacy and community LEARNING TOGETHER STRENGTHENS FAITH AND RELATIONSHIPS

By Nick McMillan, Co-chair of Communion Committee When we think about becoming biblically literate, we often imagine personal study— flipping through footnotes or referencing commentaries. But what if true biblical literacy requires something deeper?

Cam Campbell, a seasoned teacher and group leader at First Presbyterian Church, believes that while personal study is valuable, engaging in group study is equally essential.

Cam Campbell For Cam, biblical literacy thrives through community, where discussions and shared insights foster a richer understanding of scripture. This approach reflects a long-standing tradition of the church, where learning together strengthens faith and relationships.

A leader of a K Group and frequent teacher of the Sojourners Sunday School Class, Cam recommends many useful study resources to make the most of time in scripture including Barclay’s commentaries, the Apologetics Study Bible, Bethel lesson series, and Eugene Peterson’s The Message.

While independent study of scripture is important and not to be neglected, Cam is quick to point out that study in groups is just as crucial for understanding God’s Word.

There are many opportunities to develop and strengthen biblical literacy with the aid of others in a group, including worship services, small groups, and Bible classes.

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Group Bible classes and small study groups have a long, rich history at First Presbyterian Church. For over a century, these groups provided a space to talk, share perspectives, and learn more about the historical, cultural, and geographical context of scripture.

Cam’s jocular claim for his qualification to teach Bible classes is his diploma from First Presbyterian Muscogee’s kindergarten Sunday school. Despite his early academic success, Cam did not rest on his laurels when it came to understanding scripture.

When he had questions, he sought answers through study aids and Bible curricula.

In 1982, Cam completed the Bethel lesson series, which included recorded lectures on video and audio cassette tape, memorizing concepts, tests and essay writing. Since then, Cam has innovated many creative means to “do what you have to do

to learn it.” For example, Cam recommends taking a service’s bulletin, available online, and considering the words of preparation, the Old Testament reading, the sermon text, and the sermon title, and asking yourself, “If I were preparing the sermon on this, what would it be like?” Notes generated from this exercise may be kept in a sermon notebook along with any notes from the sermon as it is delivered by the pastor.

Another approach is taking one’s own Bible to the worship service so that you can make notes directly in it, including the date when a text is preached on and by which pastor.

At the same time, biblical literacy to Cam means talking about the Word and the sermon with others, talking through its concepts, context, and implications as a group, and sharing and hearing different perspectives.

Jan and Dennis Lee lead a current First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa K Group which meets on Mondays to share perspectives on the sermon from the previous Sunday and deepen the faith of each participant.

For over 25 years, Cam has led a K Group that meets on Monday evenings to discuss the previous day’s sermon. Responses to the question, “What did you hear?” are like describing sports replays seen from different angles. “Different people hear different things,” Cam says, “People will bring up points that resonate with them.”

Importantly, these Monday evening gatherings start with eating together.

“It’s good to have dinner first to have conversations,” Cam maintains.

“Conversations about scripture, along with fostering the relationships in which to have these conversations, are indispensable parts of growing in biblical literacy.”

– Cam Campbell

A contemporary Bible scholar and teacher at First Church, John Shelton, sees involving others in one’s study of scripture as imperative.

As he elaborates, “Scripture is not just about you and God. It’s never just ‘me, God, and the Bible.’ People have been involved in the production of the Bible. The production was by people.”

“We are commanded to be together. In a group, you belong to one body; it provides accountability.”

– John Shelton

For John, biblical study is best done by approaching the text humbly and seeking to understand context. He believes that “a text without context is a pretext for whatever you want it to mean.” His method is inductive, meaning he reads the text to understand what is important to God. He treats the text with respect and seeks its plain meaning.

John also recognizes the personal nature of scripture and the role of relationships in understanding it. He remembers that “the text is inspired, and people were inspired to write it ... It isn’t just a text. It is how God communicated to us; it is a love letter to us.”

John emphasizes the importance of community in developing biblical literacy.

God places people in our lives to help us grow in Christ together. As John often says, “a life of faith is one of growth, deepening relationships, and lifelong learning.”

First Church's rich history of Bible study groups Bible study groups have been part of ministry at First Presbyterian Church throughout its history. Recognizing the need to develop biblical literacy beyond sermons and private study, First Presbyterian Church started one of its longest-running Bible studies, The Brotherhood Class. It was formed in February 1907 and had a constitution, by-laws, and a clear purpose. Among its goals was the commitment “to study regularly the lessons of the Bible as the Word of God.” In addition to study, the class promoted the application of the Bible’s teaching in daily life, work on projects helpful to the church, and civic engagement. The Brotherhood Class was once the longestrunning Bible class in Oklahoma. However, it disbanded in 1982, shortly after its seventyfifth anniversary. The group struggled to attract new members to its men-only format.

Additionally, most of the remaining members, due to advanced age and ill health, were unable to attend.

Along with studying the Word, the purpose of the group was to “help build lasting friendly relationships,” the type The Brotherhood Class was formed in February 1907 and had a constitution, by-laws, which readily facilitates and a clear purpose. Among its goals was the commitment “to study regularly the lessons of the Bible as the Word of God.” conversation and understanding of the Bible’s message.

Concurrent with the Brotherhood class, the Queen Esther Class was a women’s Bible study that met from 1921 to 1967. Its members, understanding as well the importance of relationships for providing a study forum and the means to cultivate them, began their Class with luncheons hosted at a member’s house on the third Tuesday of each month.

The class supported the missional work of the church, living a life of faith grounded in and strengthened by biblical literacy.

Prior to 1921, women’s Bible study groups at First Church Tulsa were called guilds or societies, and were formed for both works and study, including the Hattie Graybill Missionary Society, formed in 1889. While forms of incorporation and the missional focus of these groups vary, they provide, then as now, meaningful context and relationships.

A journal used by the Queen Esther Guild, a Bible study group at First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa active from 1921-1967.

A handbook from the Hattie Graybill Missionary Society from 1935.

Thank you to First Church’s History & Archives for supplying historical information and artifacts for this article.

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God-given vs. God-chosen family TULSA INTERNATIONAL FELLOWSHIP CELEBRATES 15 YEARS

By Paul Mungai, TIF 2024 Board Secretary & Elder Tulsa International Fellowship (TIF), a ministry of First Church Tulsa, strong and outwardly focused.” It goes further and specifically but not celebrated our 15 year anniversary on the weekend of July 12-14, 2024. limited to walking hand in hand in faith and life with newly emigrated As pastor Rev. Wambugu Gachungi says, “We are in our teenage years!” families in the greater Tulsa area.

Looking back to humble beginnings in June 2009 when the The congregation has grown out of its commitment to being a fellowship began, a few members would meet on Sunday afternoons welcoming place for people of all backgrounds, cultures and walks for prayers and fellowship at Pastor Wambugu’s house. The fellowship of life who find themselves in a new city and in need of a place of later moved to the Great Hall of The Bernsen Community Life Center worship. Immigrants all over the world find themselves in foreign in Downtown Tulsa , and has remained there ever since. Today, TIF countries, in search of better education, economic freedom and draws over 100 immigrants from all over the world to come together independence, political stability and social mobility among other for worship, fellowship and faith gathering. reasons. In most cases, they end up separated from their God-given This would not have been possible without the leadership of families and sometimes are obligated to shoulder educational and Rev. Dr. Jim Miller, who built a friendship with Rev. Wambugu and financial responsibilities of those left behind. shepherded him on his journey through the church’s process to Having a God-chosen family such as TIF/FPC helps not only in become an associate pastor at First Church Tulsa. spiritual growth, but also in creating an environment and networks It is in the spirit of the words in Leviticus 19:34; “The alien who that help with daily immigrant struggles as well as creating an avenue resides with you shall be to you as the citizen among you; you shall for assimilating into their present culture and society. TIF is home love the alien as yourself, for you were away from home for many immigrants. aliens in the land of Egypt: I am the The growth of TIF's ministry, and Lord your God.” It is First Church’s the church as a whole, is reflected not practice of the word that has raised only in the addition of new families a congregation that loves, cares and but also in the active participation of walks with each other in times of joy existing members. These families are and tribulation. This is a congregation involved in various church activities, whose spiritual growth is led by an such as worship, media, shepherding, extremely capable and anointed team and outreach programs. of pastors, teaching and ruling elders.

On the next page, read heartfelt The ministry of TIF carries forth First testimonies from TIF members and Church Tulsa’s mission statement: attendees, sharing how the church “Called to make fully devoted has impacted and transformed TIF members share a strong bond developed through fellowship and service followers of Jesus Christ–inwardly their lives. within the tight-knit community.

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“TIF has taught me a sense of community and being there for one another. It has taught me that we are stronger together. My family and I are very grateful to be part of this wonderful community that has loved us and been there for us. We love serving in the church, too. Our kids have also grown to love everyone in this community.

We thank God for TIF/FPC!” – Eva W., member since 2010 “TIF has been a unique place and home to many foreigners from different nationalities. For me, it's been an enriching community of faith that feels like family. I’ve had opportunities to serve, and as a result, I have grown in faith and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. It's been a place where I have built meaningful connections and have learned a lot from other people's talents, gifts, and life experiences as they have graciously shared them with others. I have admired the integration of cultures with a common goal to reflect God's Kingdom in the community of Tulsa, thus advancing the gospel of good news.”

– James M., member since 2012 “I came to TIF at the lowest point of my life; I needed a shoulder to cry on, a hug and a place to call home. I was looking for someone to hold me tight, cry with me and most importantly pray with me.

It had become harder for me to do it on my own. Pastor Wambugu and Pastor Faith, together with many TIF members, held me, they embraced me, welcomed me, loved me, cried with me and prayed with me. Thirteen years have long come and gone; I still remember that very first afternoon worship I attended. I am forever grateful and will continue praising God for He answered our prayers on healing me.”

– Purity K., member since 2012 “TIF has deepened my faith as I’ve experienced both the heartache of hearing doctors’ news no parent wants to hear and the joy of seeing healing take place. Through it all, strong prayer warriors in our community have prayed with me, even when I had no words myself.

I continue to grow and cherish being a member of TIF/FPC.” – Lea M., member since 2017 “The church has loved on our family. The pastors are wonderful. The fellowship is awesome. There has always been something to look forward to. Our children have had an amazing experience and growth.”

– Femi A., member since 2017

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.”

– 1 John 4:7-8 FALL 2024 / PAGE 13

Parish Register New members April 2024 class

New members September 2024 class

Cynthia Coleman

Colin Davitt

Graham Gardner

Chuck Bowman

Frances Bowman

Fred Dietz

Dennis Gardner

Chris Glover

Francie Miller

Alex Dietz

Julie Dimond

Jeff Douyon

Debbie Seals

Gary Seals

June Owings Shults

Taylor Adams

Peggy Elder

Connie Ndar

Edgar Lopez

Hannah Johnson

Bob O’Neal

Lexie O’Neal

Cate Wangui

We welcome visitors to First Church Tulsa and offer special events and classes designed specifically for newcomers and those wanting to become members.

Newcomer Gatherings

Newcomers, whether new or longtime worshippers, are invited to join us for coffee, bagels, and fellowship as we get to know each other and learn about First Church. Gatherings are held quarterly.

Membership Classes

Interested in becoming a member? Our membership classes, led by facilitators and pastors, help you learn about the church, how you can become involved, and provide resources and support to help you grow in your faith at First Church. No need to attend a Newcomer Gathering first. Classes are held quarterly.

Find details about the Newcomer Gatherings and Membership Classes on our website at FirstChurchTulsa.org/Newcomer.

For more information, contact our Director of New Member Outreach, Emma Myatt, at 918-301-1028 or emyatt@firstchurchtulsa.org.

FALL 2024 / PAGE 14

The sacrament of baptism

First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa

VOL. 69, NO. 3 - FALL 2024

ADULTS:

Jonathan Holstein as baptized on June 17.

Neel Kumar was baptized on August 25.

INFANTS/CHILDREN:

Augustus Martin Butts, son of Olivia and Phillip Butts, was baptized on July 14.

Sally Amelia Wheeler, daughter of Andrea and Sean Wheeler, was baptized on July 14.

Elle Riya Kumar, daughter of Erica and Neel Kumar, was baptized on August 25.

Kai Ricardo Sumant Kumar, son of Erica and Neel Kumar, was baptized on August 25.

Catherine Elizabeth Shockley, daughter of Madison and Thomas Shockley, was baptized on September 1.

Edward Carter Shockley, son of Madison and Thomas Shockley, was baptized on September 1.

The celebration of Christian marriage: Julia Campbell married Colin Davitt on July 6.

Caroline Neal married Heath Ford on August 31.

Grant Phillips married Charlsey Wolfe on September 14.

The joy of new life! We welcome: Catherine Elizabeth Shockley, daughter of Madison and Thomas Shockley, was born on April 11.

Alice Marie Stember, daughter of Courtaney and Austin Stember, was born on July 24.

Mackenzie James Boone, daughter of Jackie and Drew Boone, was born on July 24.

Grayson Kenneth Williams, son of Clare and Jon Williams, was born on August 1.

William Henry Shipley, child of Margo and Reid Shipley, was born on September 12.

With gratitude for the resurrection: Adelle Beathe, a member since 1995, died on June 3.

Margaret McShane, a member since 1974, died on June 8.

Jeanette Anderson, a member since 2015, died on June 17.

Claudia King, a member since 1986, died on June 22.

Marilyn Bartholomew, a member since 2009, died on June 23.

Dottie MacMillan, a member since 1997, died on July 7.

Senator Jim Inhofe, a member since 1963, died on July 9.

Marilyn Gates, a member since 2007, died on August 13.

Sue Phelps, a member since 2001, died on August 14.

Sadie Stephens, a member since 1976, died on August 14.

Jerry Hall, a member since 1978, died on August 27.

“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross”

Tidings: The Holy Spirit at work in and through the members of the First Presbyterian Church

- HEBREWS 12:2 Ronda and John Roush with Ron Pearson showcasing the Kerr Chapel decorative organ pipes, p. 8

In this issue:

Realizing God Delights in You - p. 3

Thank you Gary Mathews - p. 4

God-given vs.

God-Chosen Family - p.12

Tidings is a quarterly publication of First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa, 709 South Boston Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74119.

Read past issues of Tidings on our website at FirstChurchTulsa.org/Tidings. Please direct questions or comments to communications@ FirstChurchTulsa.org or call 918-584-4701.

Editorial Team: Mark Brown, Duff Points, Lynn Fesperman, Kathy Wilson and Paul Marsh.

Contributors: Rev. Dan Hutchinson, Carol Elrod, Rev. James Estes, Nick McMillan, Jaclyn Metcalf, Paul Mungai, Emma Myatt, Duff Points and Kathy Wilson.

Thank you to the members of the Communications Committee for reviewing and selecting editorial for inclusion.

Pastoral care For pastoral needs, prayer requests, important family news or a change in contact information, please call 918-584-4701 or email Kathy Wilson at kwilson@firstchurchtulsa.org.

To directly request prayer by the Guild of Intercessors, call Paula Peterson at 918-2965548 or text 918-688-2163.

First Church Tulsa online resources Find all links at: Linktr.ee/FirstChurchTulsa

FALL 2024 / PAGE 15

First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa FirstChurchTulsa.org @FirstChurchTulsa @FirstChurchTulsa First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa @1stChurchTulsa

Join us for Sunday worship.

8:00 a.m. Kerr Chapel, traditional worship 8:30 a.m. Stephenson Hall, contemporary worship 11:00 a.m. Sanctuary, traditional worship 11:00 a.m. Stephenson Hall, contemporary worship 11:00 a.m. Great Hall, Tulsa International Fellowship (TIF) worship