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FALL/WINTER 2019

THE BAPTIST FOUNDATION OF OKLAHOMA

300,000 Watts, One God THE HOUSE ISN’T YOUR FATHER’S CHRISTIAN RADIO. FIND OUT HOW THIS HOMEGROWN STATION TRANSFORMS HEARTS ACROSS OKLAHOMA AND AROUND THE WORLD.

HOW TO MAXIMIZE YOUR YEAR-END GIVING

A NEW HOME FOR FBC CUSHING

NEWLYWEDS NEED ESTATE PLANS, TOO

GET AN ESTIMATE:

Inside FAITH BY HEARING: THE HOUSE CHRISTIAN RADIO Inexperience didn’t stop an accountant and a college graduate from launching the largest nonprofit Christian radio station in Oklahoma. Learn how God led Doyle Brewer (right) and Tony Weir (left) to The House, a ministry that’s reaching tens of thousands with the Gospel every day. PG. 10 ON THE COVER — Engineer’s assistant James Ullery climbs a portion of The House FM’s 1,000foot, transmitting tower near Ponca City, Oklahoma. It’s one of many antennas that allow the station to reach listeners across the state and into Kansas.

SMART GIVING: YEAR-END GIVING TIPS

A LONG TIME COMING

NOT YOUR EVERYDAY ESTATE PLAN

Planning to make a gift to your favorite ministry or charity before year’s end? It’s not always as simple as writing a check. Find out what you need to know to multiply your gift’s impact and maximize tax advantages.

Members of First Baptist Church of Cushing are enjoying the fruit of their 15-year-long labor: a beautiful new church home. Learn how years of praying, giving and saving have reinvigorated this 122-year-old congregation.

You may have heard that estate planning is only for the wealthy or retired, but that myth didn’t stop Will and Cady Bailey from preparing for their future. Learn why it’s never too early to protect your family with an estate plan.

PG. 6

PG. 8

PG. 22

GENEROSIT Y

PRODUCTION

Fall/Winter 2019 Generosity is published biannually by The Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma. To subscribe, request a copy or update mailing information, please call 800.949.9988 or email communications@bfok.org.

Mike Schueler | Editor-in-Chief Marissa Crowson | Visual Editor Anna Dellinger | Content Editor Jacob Blaze | Design

CONTRIBUTORS

Chris Doyle Sheryl Hash

Jeremy Scott Corey Smith

PHOTO BY CHRIS DOYLE

G E N E R O S I T Y Spring/Summer 2019

Celebrating Debt-Free Churches Loans can be important tools for laying the groundwork for church growth, which is why we’re committed to helping congregations borrow wisely and retire debt quickly.

he image on the left is a milestone in the life of any church— in this case, First Baptist Oilton, Oklahoma. Seven years ago, we lent the congregation $80,000 to put the finishing touches on a new church home, the majority of which was paid for with money the church raised on its own. This August, FBC Oilton paid that debt in full, marking the occasion with a special note-burning ceremony following a Sunday afternoon potluck. As president of The Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma, it’s a sight that makes me smile. You’re likely aware that in addition to helping individual donors make lasting gifts to ministries, the Foundation also provides financial services to Southern Baptist churches including loans, deposits and accounting (all of which are now housed under the Foundation’s new brand, WatersEdge Ministry Services). Of the three services, church loans are by far our most popular. Last year alone, we loaned more than $37 million to churches to build new worship space, renovate current facilities, refinance existing debt and grow ministries. While I thank God that He has positioned the Foundation and WatersEdge to be able to offer this service, I also celebrate each time a congregation frees themselves from debt.

Scripture makes it clear that debt isn’t something to be taken lightly. That’s why the WatersEdge team works hard to ensure churches aren’t borrowing more than they can afford. Our conservative approach means we sometimes have to say no to churches that need a loan but simply aren’t in a wise position to borrow. That biblically guided caution also means we’ve never experienced a single default in the more than 65 years since we began our church loan program. There’s something else you may not know that makes a WatersEdge loan different. Unlike secular lenders, the loan interest we collect is given back to other Southern Baptist churches, organizations and like-minded ministries. In 2018, we gave back $4 million in loan interest and more than $39 million during the past decade. This means that if your church uses a WatersEdge loan for your next building project, you’ll be supporting the ministries of hundreds of Southern Baptist churches and organizations across the United States. While debt may not be ideal, we’re proud that we’ve found a way to steward it wisely—one of the many things that makes the Foundation and WatersEdge unique.

Robert K. Kellogg President & CEO

PAID IN FULL — Deacon Henry Murphy (left), pastor Larry Calvert and WatersEdge Ministry Services representative Joshua Walters set fire to First Baptist Oilton’s promissory note in celebration of the Oklahoma congregation’s final payment of an $80,000 loan used to complete the construction of a new church home. WatersEdge returned the interest from the church’s loan to other Southern Baptist churches and ministries. bfok.org

#BecauseYouGive

SMILE AND WAVE A brother and sister strut down the runway during Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Childrenâ€™s (OBHC) 20th Back-to-School Style Show in Norman, Oklahoma. These siblings are a part of the Childrenâ€™s Hope program, which provides refuge for single mothers with limited resources and support. #BecauseYouGive, families like these have a safe place to live while mothers learn the skills they need to survive independently. Support OBHC at bfok.org/give.

G E N E R O S I T Y Fall/Winter 2019

PHOTOS BY ANNA DELLINGER

BACK TO SCHOOL IN STYLE Each year, hundreds attend OBHC’s three Backto-School Style Shows (in Ardmore, Norman and Tulsa), which are a major source of support for the organization. #BecauseYouGive, OBHC is not dependent on government funding, which enables the children’s homes to make the Gospel a core ministry component. Donate today at bfok.org/give.

CROWD PLEASER There’s never a dull moment at OBHC’s Boys Ranch Town, and the residents love to laugh. #BecauseYouGive, Boys Ranch Town provides caring Christian homes for boys ages 7 through 18. These boys enjoy day-to-day life together and engage in activities ranging from animal programs and sports to rodeos and auto repair. Visit bfok.org/give to donate.

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SMART GIVING Year-End Giving Tips

Knowing your options allows you to make an even greater Kingdom impact.

G E N E R O S I T Y Fall/Winter 2019

SCHEDULE A REMINDER

MAKE THE MOST

Make sure to mark your calendar with a giving deadline. Checks must be postmarked by Dec. 31, 2019. The same deadline applies to giving online or over the phone with a credit card.

Check with your accountant or financial advisor to ensure you’re getting the greatest tax advantage from your giving, and through which giving vehicles. With so many options, there’s sure to be one that works for you.

DON’T DESIGNATE

NO SURPRISES

Undesignated gifts allow ministries the freedom to meet their most immediate needs. While giving to specific projects can be attractive, giving without any restrictions allows for more flexibility and often greater impact.

Make sure the charity you’re supporting is a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization or a church. If not, you may be unable to use the gift to reduce your taxable income. To verify an organization’s nonprofit status, you can search websites like Charity Navigator, GuideStar or the IRS.

MEET YOUR MATCH

AGE ADVANTAGE

Many businesses are just as interested in giving as you are—and in some cases corporate matches may even double your money. Check with your employer to see if there are any gift-matching opportunities at your workplace.

If you are 70½ or older, you can make donations directly from your individual retirement account (IRA) to a charity. This can reduce your taxable income, and unlike other charitable gifts, this tax strategy can benefit you even if you don’t itemize.

CASH ISN’T (ALWAYS) KING

INSPIRE GENEROSITY

Most people think of donating cash to charities, but there are other options. Many nonprofits accept gifts of real estate, crops, royalties, life insurance policies, stocks and securities. In some cases, if these assets have appreciated, you may even be able to get a double tax break. (Keep in mind that these gifts are more complex than cash and should be handled in early December.)

The Bible tells us to give with a cheerful heart. Share your giving experience with family and friends. Maybe you’ll inspire them to give, too, or help them better steward their gifts though vehicles that multiply donations and maximize impact.

5. SIMPLIFY WITH YOUR DAF Life is busy, especially around the holidays. Let us handle the paperwork for you. Giving through a donor advised fund (DAF) allows you to manage all of your giving online in one place, while simultaneously multiplying your gifts and maximizing tax benefits. Learn more at bfok.org/DAF.

Together, We Can Make Your Gifts Go Further The Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma’s mission is to inspire generosity and multiply gifts that strengthen ministry. If you have questions about year-end giving, we’re ready to help you minimize your taxable income and maximize Kingdom impact. Start a conversation with our planned giving professionals today. give@bfok.org

800.949.9988

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A Long Time Coming For 15 years, a sign sat on an empty 100-acre piece of property. It read: Future Home of First Baptist Church of Cushing. BY ANNA DELLINGER

ifteen years is a long time to wait for something. But the members of First Baptist Church of Cushing will tell you it was worth it. The Oklahoma congregation raised nearly $4 million during that period to build the beautiful, new facility they enjoy today. The venture started with one legacy giver—a teacher who left

G E N E R O S I T Y Fall/Winter 2019

the church $100,000 when she died. The church used that gift to begin fundraising for a building project, since their existing facility was more than 100 years old. “It had been added onto, pieced onto, a million different things,” explains senior pastor Michael Martin. “So, they needed something new. They started doing a few things, like buying up property

around that building, but there wasn’t a good option there.” Eventually, God prompted one generous church member to donate 100 acres of property in the heart of Cushing. The congregation continued to fundraise in earnest. “I think it was a dream that they just believed in and stayed after,” Martin says. “A few of those were large gifts

OPPOSITE PAGE: PROUD PASTOR — Michael Martin may not have been there for all 15 years of fundraising, but he is fully invested in the mission of FBC Cushing. THIS PAGE: JAM SESSION — David Soto, worship pastor Ken Austin, and Geoff Beasley (from left to right) warm up before a Sunday morning worship service inside FBC Cushing’s new sanctuary. All three men serve in the church’s praise band.

FBC Cushing held its first service in the new building this past Easter Sunday. The sanctuary holds 600 people, and with weekly attendance around 250-300, the church has plenty of room to grow.

“I think it was a dream that they just believed in and stayed after,” Martin says. along the way, but a lot of them were just week after week of people committed to giving.” Church members also donated hundreds of hours of labor, saving the church hundreds of thousands of dollars. One member installed plumbing, and another used his bulldozer to create the picturesque pond behind the church. “Really, we had four or five guys who were the committee that built the church. If it was just on my shoulders, we would not be sitting in a finished building today,” Martin says. “They did a lot of stuff that you would normally have to pay someone to do. We have high quality folks here.” FBC Cushing partnered with WatersEdge Ministry Services to help multiply their building funds. In November 2016, the church placed those funds in a WatersEdge term

deposit, allowing the money to grow before construction began. “We chose WatersEdge because it was a better rate,” Martin says. “We could make more on our investment. And then also the ministry side of it—the fact that our deposit was enabling WatersEdge to provide loans to other churches that needed help.”

“We call ourselves the friendliest church in town,” Martin explains. “If people go to church, they ought to feel like they’re welcome there.” The church is focused on raising up the next generation and investing in youth ministry and young families. More than 50 new members joined the church this year, and it’s on schedule to double baptisms from last year. Martin says investing wisely with WatersEdge is paving the way for the church to reach more people with the Gospel. “That’s the story our church is excited about: we saved money and invested it with WatersEdge, and we got it done.”

Grow Your Ministry Resources With Deposits That Bring Peace Of Mind For The Future Wise financial stewardship is essential to a growing ministry. With options that turn cash into growing assets, our experts can help your church invest savings to multiply ministry resources. WatersEdge Ministry Services is The Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma’s new brand for church loan, deposit and accounting services. deposits@WatersEdgeServices.org 866.693.8369

WatersEdgeServices.org/deposits bfok.org

FAITH BY HEARING On air with The House

God is using the power of radio to transform broken lives across Oklahoma and around the world.

BY ANNA DELLINGER PHOTOS BY JEREMY SCOTT AND MIKE SCHUELER 10

G E N E R O S I T Y Fall/Winter 2019

LISTENING LINEUP — DJs Kevin Brooks and Haleigh Collier co-host the Wake Up Morning Show on The House FM. Brooks has been in radio for more than three decades, but only transitioned to Christian radio four years ago. “I have all this experience, this life of radio, and suddenly it makes sense. Suddenly there’s a purpose to it,” Brooks says. “It’s not just being cool and being funny. I mean, it is that, but there’s a spiritual aspect that really touches people’s lives. It makes a difference.” bfok.org

he received the phone call no one can prepare for.

“My mom called me to tell me goodbye. She had popped 90 pills and was ready to give up,” Krista Hardy says. Hardy’s mother had been driving in her daughter’s car to find a place to die when she heard the song “What Love Really Means” by JJ Heller. “She told me she began to cry out to God and decided that He did love her enough to save her.” The radio station playing those powerful lyrics was The House. With a mission to inspire faith, restore hope and amplify love, The House has changed thousands of lives over the past 26 years. It’s hard to measure the ministry’s true impact—the suicides prevented, the marriages restored, the salvation experiences and the thousands of moments where listeners were encouraged by exactly what they needed to hear. This listener-supported radio station based in Ponca City, Oklahoma, is undoubtedly a ministry of God’s design. “If that song hadn’t come on, I don’t think my mom would be here today,” Hardy says. Because of The House’s ministry, Hardy’s mom is walking with the Lord today, and so are countless other listeners, like Andrea Balay. Balay used to flip through radio stations as she drove her delivery route when she was a mail carrier. One day,

she landed on The House, which was playing Sidewalk Prophets’ “You Love Me Anyway.” Though Balay had grown up in church, she had drifted away as a young adult. Instead of relying on God during those years, she turned to alcohol and other unhealthy alternatives to numb her pain and help her deal with her insecurities. But God used the words of the song—“…but You love me anyway, it’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known...”— to remind her that He loved her unconditionally and was always with her. This song led her to seek the Lord again. “By listening to The House, I eventually gave my life to Christ and started down a different path, one that He chose for me,” Balay says. Only two short years later, her sons followed in her footsteps by accepting Christ and being baptized. The purpose behind every song, piece of programming and event is to reach more people with the Good News of Jesus Christ, explains The House CEO Tony Weir. “That’s the first and foremost of the mission,” Weir says. “We believe we’ve been given not just a tool, but a huge set of tools to share Christ with over a million people … and growing.”

ABOVE: A NEW LIFE — The Lord used music on The House as a catalyst to draw Andrea Balay back into relationship with Himself. Today she is a strong believer, grateful for the opportunity to share how God has changed her life. OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP: BAND OF BROTHERS — Brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone of “for KING & COUNTRY” performed in Oklahoma City this past August. The House often partners with Christian bands and local venues to host concerts, giving fans a chance to connect with their favorite musicians up close. OPPOSITE PAGE, BOTTOM: BUSINESS AS USUAL — Doyle Brewer (center), founder and president of The House, leads a staff meeting in Studio A where the House employees share prayer requests, team updates and ideas to keep the station running smoothly.

G E N E R O S I T Y Fall/Winter 2019

PHOTO BY ANNA DELLINGER

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Find Your Frequency

On This Day PRICE OF GAS 21, DECEMBER $1.13 1992

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LISTENERS

Over the past three decades, The House has ministered to countless listeners in 62,000 RADIO PER WEEK across Oklahoma Oklahoma and around and around the world thewith world Christian with Christian music. music. The station’s name is inspired by Ephesians 2:20: “Together, we are His house, built on the foundation of “Together, weand are his prophets. house, built onthe thecornerstone foundation of the apostles and the 10,000 the apostles the And is Christ Jesus Himself.” ONLINE PER WEEK prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself.” Ephesians 2:20

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December 21, 1992 October 12, 2004 Over the past three decades, The House has ministered to countless Over the past three decades, The House has ministered to countless listeners listeners in in Oklahoma and around the world with Christian music. Oklahoma and around the world with Christian music. Music Praise & Worship Contemporary Christian Genres “Together, “Together, we we are are his his house, house, built built on on the the foundation foundation of of the the apostles apostles and and the the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself.” Ephesians 2:20 prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself.” Ephesians 2:20 Chris Tomlin, MercyMe, for KING & COUNTRY, TobyMac, Top Artists Casting Crowns Lauren Daigle

Programs

Focus on the Family, Charles Stanley, Adventures in Odyssey, Chuck Swindoll

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1 LISTENERS

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LISTENERS

G E N E R O S I T Y Fall/Winter 2019

RADIO RADIO RADIO

62,000 62,000 PER WEEK

MILLION POTENTIAL LISTENERS IN OKLAHOMA

REACH Technology allows listeners all over the world to tune in to The House through internet streaming and smart phone apps. Countries with The House listeners

DONORS Thousands of donors far and wide pledge to support the station each year. The House often encourages giving by supporting other organizations such as Compassion International and Children’s Cup. For example, if a listener pledges $40 a month to support The House, a donation will go to Children’s Cup to feed a hungry child in Honduras for a month.

DONATIONS

93% OF BUDGET

COUNTRIES

35 STATES

300 CITIES

“When I have my headphones on listening to The House, I can focus. It keeps my heart in the right place and it keeps my mind where I need it to be.” Sheryl Palumbo, Massapequa, New York “There’s no dedicated Christian radio channel in my hometown. So, I listen to both The House FM and The House of Praise using TuneIn, an online radio app. It gets my day going, and especially during tough times, I’m reminded of God’s grace.” Jeffrey Kotian, Bangalore, India “I can’t help but get caught up in the lyrics and start worshipping Jesus right there in the middle of a song.” Amanda Whitehead, Ponca City, Oklahoma

VOLUNTEER

Many events and concerts sponsored by The House conclude with a decision time and volunteers who are available to pray with attendees. “Thousands have received Christ through events that we sponsored. And that’s always been really important to us,” Weir adds. “To me, that’s obviously the biggest impact— getting souls into heaven.”

THE RIGHT WORD AT THE RIGHT TIME Weir, who also serves as one of the station’s DJs, dedicates part of his air time each day to sharing something God has laid on his heart to encourage listeners. “I try to share every day that God loves them. I want people to know that they’re not alone in what they’re facing, and that there’s hope for them in any situation,” he says. One listener heard exactly what he needed to hear— in spite of himself. Larry Wyckoff, owner and veterinarian at Blackwell Animal Hospital, had repeatedly put off listening to The House despite his wife’s frequent suggestions.

MOM ON THE GO — No matter the destination, The House is a regular passenger in Beth Robertson’s minivan. “They play music that’s more fun than the other Christian stations and I don’t have to worry whether it’s okay for my kids,” says the Norman, Oklahoma, mom of three. PRICELESS SUPPORTERS — Brad and Paula Jackson, owners of Jackson Diamond Jewelers in Stillwater, Oklahoma, are among the hundreds of businesses that support The House. They say they’re grateful for the positive music in a world full of negative media. CARING FOR CREATION — Larry Wyckoff, owner of Blackwell Animal Hospital, is a long-time listener and financial supporter of The House. His office plays the station in the waiting room, and Wyckoff enjoys tuning in when he’s out on calls.

STEPPING OUT IN FAITH The House was born from humble beginnings. Doyle Brewer, the station’s founder and president, learned everything through trial and error—and a few dozen phone calls with an elderly radio engineer. “You can tell that God’s had His hand on this radio ministry because 26 years ago Tony and I started it together, and neither one of us had ever worked for a radio station,” Brewer says. “For us to still be going this many years later, obviously God ordained a way for us to make it.”

The purpose behind every song, piece of programming and event is to reach more people with the Good News of Jesus Christ.

“She said, ‘You need to listen to that.’ I said, ‘Oh, I don’t want to listen to that. I’m a country guy, I’m gonna listen to country music,’” Wyckoff remembers.

But one day while he was out on a call for work, he turned the radio to The House and John MacArthur was preaching. “I listened to him, and at that point I rededicated my life [to Christ] because of that ministry that was on the radio. It was touching, I guess you might say,” Wyckoff says tearfully. Since that day, he’s been a faithful listener and determined supporter of the station. Though his vet practice is stressful, he says the music and ministry bring him comfort. “Just listen and let the Lord work,” Wyckoff says. “He’s out there and He’s changing hearts every day. You just have to give Him the opportunity to speak to you through the music.”

G E N E R O S I T Y Fall/Winter 2019

Brewer worked as an accountant for 13 years before leaving his job to pursue radio. His daughters were ages 3 and 5 at the time, and this radical leap of faith meant that his family would initially be living without a paycheck. “But I knew this was something God was calling me to do, and I jumped at the chance to leave,” Brewer remembers. He couldn’t imagine his children growing up without the influence of Christian music. Brewer had been rebroadcasting a Tulsa station called the Love Station from a 60-foot, 10-watt tower in his backyard. When the Tulsa station was sold and converted to country music, he says God began tugging at him to start a full-powered radio station in Ponca City. “I got to the point where I felt like there was nothing I could do other than start the station. I was called to do it, I had to do it,” Brewer says.

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MEET THE

DJs

What’s a radio station without a DJ? Meet a few of the personalities at The House who brighten mornings and make the commute home less of a chore. They have their ups and downs, too, but they love what they do.

Grant WHAT DO YOUR KIDS THINK ABOUT YOUR JOB?

Brent WHY ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?

“To know that we’ve done something that’s made someone’s day better or helped them through a really difficult time and for them to tell you about it in person or on the phone—that’s my favorite part. That’s why we do what we do.” WHAT’S THE HARDEST PART OF BEING A DJ?

“I didn’t build the full-blown caffeine addiction that I have now until my stint on the morning show. That’s when I started drinking coffee and a lot of it. By the gallon. I don’t miss waking up when it was basically the middle of the night, and going to work.” WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST OOPS MOMENT ON THE AIR?

“Everyone was supposed to set their clocks back and I spent almost an entire weekend telling people to turn their clocks forward.”

G E N E R O S I T Y Fall/Winter 2019

“They’re really funny because they love wearing the new House sweatshirts we got just a few months ago. And if any one of them puts it on, the other two will run and put theirs on. Without realizing it, we have gotten out of the car and me and all three kids are wearing the same thing. And I’ll look at my wife and go, ‘Did we really just do this?’” WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU’RE AT WORK BUT NOT ON THE AIR?

“I’m also the director of marketing. Most of The House staff wear multiple hats. I mean, we painted our own office. You’ll never hear anyone say, ‘That’s not my job.’” WHAT MAKES THE HOUSE DIFFERENT?

“There’s no such thing as ‘off’ for us. We’re always having to not only convey the message that is the right song at the right time, but we’re also having to be ready for that next event or next opportunity or next time that a flood happens in our listening area. The light’s got to be on all the time and we’ve got to always be prepared to act.”

Rosie WHY ARE YOU GRATEFUL FOR THE HOUSE?

Haleigh WHAT DOES WORKING AT THE HOUSE MEAN TO YOU?

“I have been listening to the station my entire life, and I have loved it. And so, it was always my dream job, but I never thought it would actually be attainable. God was just opening all the doors. I’m so grateful that He did this, that He placed that dream in my heart, so I could pursue this. They say you never work when you love what you’re doing, and I think that’s completely true.” WHAT’S YOUR SHIFT LIKE?

“I work from 3:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. That means usually I’m already in bed around 5 or 6 p.m., which is not how I viewed myself as a 22-year-old, but you know, I’m an 81-year-old woman in my soul.”

“I was a really broken, sad person, and this place has really helped me heal a lot and be a lot more joyful.” WHAT’S THE COOLEST PART?

“As an adventuring personality, knowing that my voice is going places that I might not ever physically be is such a cool thing to say that I’ve knocked off my bucket list. I also love knowing that I am literally a nobody in a very small town in Oklahoma, but the Lord prompts me to say something that might stop someone in Wisconsin from taking their own life.” WHY SHOULD PEOPLE GIVE?

“I think anywhere that you can see the Lord working is an honorable and very appropriate place to invest. You have an opportunity to help impact somebody on the other side of the world that you will never meet. Talk about an investment going far—it could do that here very quickly.”

WHY SHOULD FAMILIES LISTEN?

“For young kids, we want them to be raised to be ready to serve Christ and serve others who haven’t heard about Him and to want to share about Him and impact the world. And then, just in general, it’s a lot of fun to listen to.”

HOUSE MISSION STATEMENT

We are a shelter for those on life’s journey; travelers in a fallen world, in need of healing and rest for mind, body and spirit. We are a light up ahead, a roadside inn, an outpost, a Mission with a mission ...

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But he knew he couldn’t do it all himself, so he hired Weir, a graduate fresh out of Evansville University, as the program director. Today, Weir continues to serve as the music and program director but also leads the station as CEO. Numerous community members and businesses generously gave both time and money to launch the station, resulting in $90,000 and dozens of volunteers to help revamp an old studio that had been sitting in bankruptcy. “It’s amazing to me the amount of money that was raised before the station was even on the air,” Weir says. “People were willing to give to a radio station that they couldn’t even hear yet.” Brewer and Weir jumped hurdle after hurdle, finally hitting the airwaves Dec. 21, 1992, as KLVV, The Love Station. They didn’t start with much, and in the beginning, both Brewer and Weir worked long hours every day, including weekends. “The early years were pretty tough,” Weir remembers. The Love Station was later renamed My Praise FM (today known as The House of Praise), and in 2004, they created a sister station with the family in mind—The House FM.

“We are the 24/7/365 means of worship and encouragement. If we ceased to exist, there would be a void in thousands of lives ...” MANY HANDS MAKE THE RADIO WORK Volunteers and donors like Curtis and Sharon Perkins have been the driving force behind the station since its inception. From manning the phones during a pledge drive to stuffing envelopes and mowing the lawn, this retired couple will do almost anything to further the mission of The House. “The station just does so much good,” Sharon says. “So many lives have been touched and brought closer to God. We enjoy being a part of that, and they can’t do it without listeners’ support.” Churches and local businesses have also played a big part in partnering with the station for concerts and annual events like Kid DJ Day. The community looks forward to this fun, family celebration, which gives hundreds of children the opportunity to

FAITH FAMILY — “When we volunteer at The House, it’s like a little piece of heaven,” says Sharon Perkins (left center). “Everybody here is family.” Perkins and her husband, Curtis (right center), have donated significant time and money to The House over the course of the past seven years and are among the station’s most faithful supporters.

G E N E R O S I T Y Fall/Winter 2019

1992

2017

THEN AND NOW — Much has changed since God called Doyle Brewer to start The House in 1992. But in the nearly three decades since, he’s led the Christian radio station with the same singular vision—to be the light of Jesus Christ in a dark and dying world.

say a few words on air. Set in a carnival-like atmosphere featuring face painting, hayrides and karaoke, this free event allows station DJs to interact with listeners young and old.

investment with a small return to the ministry each year, building long-term financial stability while simultaneously meeting short-term needs. “I think it gives our donors an opportunity to invest in reaching people for Christ for decades to come,” says Brewer.

COUNTING THE COST TO REACH THE LOST The House relies on funding from thousands of donors and business partners to keep its ministry on the air. Of the $1.5 million needed annually to run the station, 93 percent must come from donations—which means The House is continually working to increase its donor base.

Andrea Balay sees the music of The House as an uplifting avenue of entertainment for her kids, much different from today’s secular media, which leaves people with more questions about life than answers.

But despite faithful and generous supporters, the number of donors and donations has begun to drop, making future growth of the station uncertain.

“It’s always this hurt or this pain or this loss or something,” she explains. “But when I started listening to the music on The House, it was all the opposite direction. Despite all the tragedies and difficult times, the message was that it’s going to be OK.”

“I see what we do as an extension of the church,” Weir says. “We are the 24/7/365 means of worship and encouragement. If we ceased to exist, there would be a void in thousands of lives … and what would they fill it with?”

The House plans to continue its ministry of encouragement through the Gospel for as many years as God allows.

OUSE ency facts

has ministered to countless listeners in istian music.

Recently, The House created an endowment with The Foundation of Oklahoma to help secure the oundation of Baptist the apostles and the station’s future. An esus himself.” Ephesians 2:20 endowment multiplies gifts through

Faith. Family. Fun. October 12, 2004 Contemporary Christian

“You know, it has to be God. There’s just no other answer,” Weir says about the radio station’s longevity. “All it took was one person being available for God to work through. And He just kept growing it. It’s just amazing and very humbling.”

The House is more than a radio station—it’s a ministry bringing hope to the hopeless. Your giving enables The House to reach listeners all over the world with the Gospel message. The Foundation can help you multiply your gift and leave a legacy that will support The House for generations to come. Start a conversation with our planned giving professionals today. give@bfok.org

DONORS 800.949.9988

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Hundreds of donors far and wide pledge to support the station each year. The House often matches listener donations by supporting other

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G E N E R O S I T Y Fall/Winter 2019

NOT YOUR EVERYDAY ESTATE PLAN Newlyweds Will and Cady Bailey aren’t the typical family associated with estate planning, but they loved the idea of stewardship and promoting the Kingdom, so they created a plan for the future. BY STAFF | PHOTOS BY COREY SMITH AND ANNA DELLINGER Where are you from? Will: “I’m from Ada, Oklahoma, and Cady is from Ft. Worth, Texas, but we recently bought a house in Blanchard, Oklahoma.” What do you do? Will: “I work at a custom hot rod and fabrication shop, where we build a lot of high-end cars and motorcycles.” Cady: “I teach Algebra II at Santa Fe South Pathways Middle College. Our program allows students to get their

associate degree or up to an associate as they complete high school.” Why did you choose to create an estate plan? Cady: “I don’t think it was ever on our radar. But because the Foundation brought it to our church, it was easy. We were like, ‘Yeah, this is something that can honor the Lord, so let’s do it.’ It was also strongly encouraged by other people who we look up to in the church.” Will: “We’d be fools not to, in a lot of ways. Plus, it benefits our future

children, our families, and even benefits either one of us in case something happens. The Foundation really communicated that it’s about stewardship and taking care of the things God has given us to use for His Kingdom.” What was the process like? Cady: “The process for us was super easy, and it was explained on a level that we could understand. And it was nice, too, to have someone who is a Christian, who loves the Lord, to help us with that because they are like-minded.”

SERVICE WITH A SMILE — When he’s not busy customizing cars, you’ll likely find Will Bailey spending time with his wife, Cady. Though they don’t yet have children, the couple knew how important it was to create an estate plan after losing Will’s father three years ago. He died without any plan in place, including a last will and testament. bfok.org

HANDS IN THE AIR — Cady Bailey is in her fifth year of teaching at Santa Fe South Pathways Middle College. She loves the opportunity to provide her students with a chance at a brighter future.

What ministries did you choose as charitable beneficiaries of your estate plan? Why? Cady: We chose Camp Wow in Gerty, Oklahoma, which is about 45 minutes from Ada, because I worked there during college and I’ve always had a heart for youth. I also volunteered at Dayspring Villa while I was in college, which serves women who have been abused or involved in human trafficking. I know that my money would be spent wisely and impact the Kingdom well at both of those places. Will: We also chose Hope Pregnancy Centers, because I think God really uses the centers to save lives, and to really make an impact in these women’s lives and in their children’s lives. The other place that we want to give our last gift to is the church that we’re attending at the time of death. Wherever it is, we’re going to be going there for a reason, and that reason is for God’s Kingdom to be glorified, and for us to make disciples.

G E N E R O S I T Y Fall/Winter 2019

Why should young people create an estate plan? Will: “Part of me was thinking about the common misconception of wills and trusts being for rich older people who have kids. To see it’s not for just those people, but that it can be for somebody like us is really cool.” Cady: “I think death and even sickness is really hard for people to walk through. And to have legal stuff in place is so important. That way, I’m not like ‘Well, Will would have really wanted this.’ Because part

of the plan is what happens if something happens to him and he becomes incapacitated.” Will: “When my dad passed away three years ago, he didn’t have a will. I didn’t want to leave Cady in that position someday and I don’t want to leave our children in that position either, when we have kids. It’s just not fair. And I don’t feel like it’s stewarding what God’s given us very well either. I would encourage anybody to create an estate plan because the things that you have—your house, your cars, your money—it’s ultimately God’s.”

You’re Never Too Young For an Estate Plan. An estate plan is for everyone. It maps out critical end-of-life decisions, provides peace of mind and helps support Gospel-centered ministries. The Foundation makes it easy and affordable. Start your plan online today. estateplan@bfok.org

800.949.9988

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PHOTO BY MIKE SCHUELER

LAST LOOK GET IN THE HOLE!

Oklahoma Baptist University senior Elly Baze twoputts for par on 14 at The Golf Club of Edmond during the RCB-UCO Invitational, Sept. 30, 2019. Baze shot 79 both days of the tournament, leading the Bison to finish eighth overall. Many OBU students depend on scholarships, and your giving enables athletes like Baze to receive a nationally ranked education grounded in a Christ-centered worldview. The Foundationâ€™s planned giving professionals can help maximize your giftâ€™s impact; start a conversation today at 800.949.9988 or give@bfok.org.

Do good and secure your future with a Charitable Gift Annuity A Charitable Gift Annuity provides the security of a guaranteed lifetime income while allowing you to support Gospel-centered ministries that will impact the next generation and beyond. Your gift is eligible for an immediate tax deduction, and annuity interest yields are at a 10-year high. Start a conversation with our planned giving professionals today.

800.949.9988 | give@bfok.org | bfok.org/CGA