Contact November 2025

a publication for the OKUMC connection

the

gratitude issue

November 2025 • Volume 7, Number 10

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Communications Ministry Staff

Carlos Ramirez

Jena Barber

Andrew Himes

Director of Communications

Editor of Publications

Multimedia and Web Ministry

Publication Credits Cover photo and feature graphics: Deposit Photos & Jena Barber Stories and layout by Jena Barber (unless otherwise noted) If you have story ideas, please reach out!

Send them to Jena Barber at editor@okumc.org.

The Contact, a publication of the OKUMC Connection (USPS 954-500) is published monthly by The Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church, 1501 NW 24th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73106. Periodical postage paid at Oklahoma City, OK. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to “The Contact OKUMC”, 1501 NW 24th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73106.

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from the editor Most of the time, writing about gratitude is low-hanging fruit. Listing children, spouse, family, coworkers, and neighbors is an obvious choice. Who isn’t thankful for the people who make their lives special? The next expected item is what most would call blessings: food, shelter, work, nice weather, a sturdy home.

in the grocery store line when someone is buying unhealthy food, it’s the knee-jerk reaction to someone’s clothing choices, and it’s the judgmental thoughts about a person smoking cigarettes.

There’s no way I can ever be thankful for mosquitoes. Beyond the basic nuisance of the little devils flying around and causing itchy bites, they also serve as vector for disease, like malaria and West Nile virus.

others and tell themselves the sufferers deserve it.

Those are just the ones I have on a pretty regular basis.

I know people celebrate the deaths of people they hate; they ignore the deaths of people whose demise doesn’t further their agenda; they are silent about the deaths of innocents in other countries, At this point, everyone pretty much knows from wars, natural disasters, genocide, what everyone else is thankful for, thanks hunger. to social media, so I’ve decided to list People deride others who have less things for which I just can’t find a way to education, fewer resources, imperfect be thankful. bodies. People celebrate the suffering of One might be tempted to add appreciation for hardships, setbacks, and complications, as these are often touted as character-building.

I’m not thankful for mosquitoes.

Another thing for which I’m not thankful is traffic. No good can come of cars all over the highway, trucks whipping in and out of lines of vehicles, or 30-minute slowdowns.

Even with air conditioning, audiobooks, and comfy seat cushions, traffic remains a bane of my existence. It steals time from my days and increases stress manifold.

I’m not thankful for traffic.

On a more serious note, the thing that’s at the top of my mind is human cruelty. It seems, these days, that for some people, cruelty is something to be proud of.

It’s not just the bulldozing of homeless encampments or the denial of essential food benefits. It’s also the side-eye glance

I think we need to listen to the experts who are warning us about the threat of Christian nationalism, since it seems to twist Christianity into a modern version of the cruelty that was the Crusades.

We as a society seem to have become desensitized to human cruelty. I don’t know if it’s video games, movies, social media, compassion fatigue, corruption of the “ideal” of American individualism, some sort of genetic disorder we’re breeding into generations, iPad babies, Tylenol, the ozone layer, the pandemic by now I’m willing to consider just about anything, if only we can find an antidote.

I’m not thankful for human cruelty.

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Gratitude that Defends: A Jesus People Reflection

By Rev. Sharon Kay Cochran In a world that often mistakes gratitude for passivity, I offer a different witness: gratitude as resistance. Gratitude that names injustice and refuses to accommodate it. Gratitude that breathes, blesses, and defends.

I am thankful for breath—not just as a biological function, but as sacred evidence that God is in us. Every inhale is a reminder: we are not abandoned.

We are inhabited. Emmanuel is not a seasonal slogan; it is our daily reality.

I am thankful for those who have much and choose to share—not out of pity, but out of kinship. Their generosity is not performative. It is communion. It is Matthew 25 lived out in grocery lines, gas stations, and quiet acts of dignity.

I am thankful for enforcement officers who do not abuse their power. Who see humanity before protocol. Who protect without domination. Their restraint is not weakness—it is mercy in uniform.

I am thankful for public places that offer rest without judgment. For benches that welcome the weary. For restrooms that do not turn away the unwashed, the unhoused, the unseen.

These spaces preach a gospel of dignity without words.

But gratitude alone is not enough.

We are a Jesus people. And Jesus did

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not teach us to be polite in the face of oppression. He taught us to defend the weak. To feed the hungry. To visit the imprisoned. To see Him in the faces of those the world discards. These are not metaphors. They are marching orders.

So in famine, in strife, in the quiet cruelty of systems that forget the poor—we must remember. We must rise. We must defend.

Because gratitude that does not lead to justice is just sentiment. And Jesus did not come to make us sentimental. He came to make us bold.

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We’re thankful for

EXTENSION MINISTRIES More words

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Skyline Urban Ministry Dear Oklahoma Conference Family of Faith, November is a season of gratitude and thanksgiving, and we at Skyline are deeply thankful for the opportunity to share the impact of your generosity. Since 1968, Skyline has been serving the Oklahoma City community, meeting our neighbor’s needs, restoring dignity, and offering hope to our patrons.

Through your partnership, hundreds of thousands of individuals and families have received groceries, clothing, and essential eye care services over the years.

The need in our community continues to grow, and together we continue to respond with compassion and commitment. Between 2022 and 2024, the number of people served by Skyline doubled. In 2025, we have Skyline has many programs for Oklahomans. Photos courtesy Skyline Urban already seen more than Ministry. a 10% increase in those seeking assistance. Every cart possible through your faithful support. of groceries shared, every coat given, and every new pair of glasses resulting We hear heartfelt messages of thanks from in vision being restored is a reflection our clients every day. I’d love to share two of Christ’s love in action! It is all made

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notes we have received from patrons in the Thank you for walking alongside us as we serve “the least of these” in the name past few weeks: of Christ. Together, we are building a “Thank you for blessing my family with stronger, more compassionate Oklahoma your love and generosity! Skyline—you City, one neighbor and one act of kindness provide hope, kindness, and the mercy of at a time.

God with everything y’all do.”

With gratitude, — The Pence Family Katy Leffel “You have been a blessing to me since the Skyline Chief Executive Officer passing of my husband. Thank you, and God bless everyone at Skyline.”

— Debbie H. We extend heartfelt thanks to the churches, clergy, and individuals across the Oklahoma Conference who make this ministry possible through your giving, volunteering, and in-kind donations. Whether you collect food, sort clothing, contribute financially, or serve alongside us in person, your efforts sustain this vital mission.

Your faith in action allows Skyline to continue being a light of hope in our city.

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Neighborhood Services Organization Dearest Friends: On behalf of Neighborhood Services Organization (NSO), I offer my deepest gratitude for your extraordinary gifts to support NSO’s work through apportionments and other giving. Your generosity is humbling, inspiring, and is making such a difference in our work to restore dignity in the lives of vulnerable Oklahoma neighbors.

As a congregation within the Oklahoma Conference of the United Methodist Church, you live a mission of continuing Jesus Christ’s example of outreaching love, healing, and caring for God’s children. Because of your congregation, NSO can reach into the lives of vulnerable neighbors embattled in homelessness, eviction, poor oral health, and inadequate childhood nutrition. Your financial gifts ensure we’re there in hard moments, offering a beacon of hope, a light of respite, and a demonstration of Jesus’ love.

Our community is experiencing difficult times, but NSO is responding in incredible ways, thanks to you.

• Housing: While homelessness and eviction continue to skyrocket in Oklahoma County, we’ve opened a brand-new program to turn the tide

while making plans to expand our housing programs.

• Dental: As an overwhelming number of Oklahomans experience poor oral health, our Low-Cost Dental Clinic is serving more patients than ever.

• Nutrition: As poor childhood health continues to be a harsh reality in our state, our WIC Clinic is growing its caseload.

In all, NSO serves weary Oklahomans over 350,000 times a year. But behind every data count is a life changed; a future reimagined.

Shayni, an NSO Martha’s House resident, is a shining example of what can happen when courageous donors like you give boldly. Shayni never thought she’d see her 37th birthday—then she found NSO. Shayni and her two boys went from being homeless and hopeless to a home filled with stability and hope for the future.

Since Shayni moved to NSO in 2024, she’s earned a certificate in paralegal studies and been accepted into Vanderbilt University. As she puts it, NSO gave her “a life worth living.”

My friends in Christ, there is no greater gift we can offer here on earth than helping God’s precious children realize that they

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have a life worth living. Thank you for your gifts, your support, and most importantly, your prayers. This mission and ministry would not be possible without your congregation.

Inspired by you, Stacey Ninness President & Chief Executive Officer P.S. Hear Shayni’s story in her own words by visiting this page. You are incredible… thank you for your support!

Shayni and her two boys pictured at an NSO Christmas party. Photos courtesy NSO.

Shayni has battled addiction, homelessness, and heartache. Eventually, she found sobriety, but as Shayni says, “Even after getting sober, there still wasn’t much hope until NSO became a part of my life.” To hear her story in her own words, click on the image above.

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Circle of Care their homes and communities. With these programs, combined with our foster care, transitional housing, mentoring, and counseling services, we are truly able to offer comprehensive support to children and families in crisis in Oklahoma.

With your support and God’s grace, we are hopeful and confident that we can continue to help even more people. Your gifts make enormous impact, and we cannot fully express the thankfulness that we have for you.

Photos courtesy Circle of Care.

We are overflowing with gratitude for all those who continue to support the mission of Circle of Care. Our church partners are a vital piece of this puzzle. As our CEO Keith Howard expressed earlier this year, our donors “are the jet fuel behind our mission of providing Christian help, healing, and hope.” Your giving, whether through apportionment, volunteerism, legacy giving, or individual donations, provides the resources needed to do the work God has called us to do across this state.

Because of your generosity, we have been able to expand our programming over the last year, launching two new programs— Beyond, which supports families after adoption, and Fathers Empowered, which helps dads grow as leaders in

We’d like to share stories about our two newest programs: Beyond Teen Adoptee Group The boys sat silently for an hour listening to the two men describe how adoption had not held them back, but propelled them forward. They described how being different used to bother them, but now they realize how it made their story special.

Brothers Talyn and Tabry Shettron, transracial adoptees and football players at Oklahoma State University, were recent guest speakers at Beyond’s Teen Adoptee Group (TAG). The group, which met in June and July, included boys ages 1317 who gathered weekly for food, fun, and real conversations. All of the boys are high-level young athletes themselves and connected deeply with the brothers’

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message.

“It was powerful,” says Cindy Boecking, director of Beyond. “The boys got to see their dreams reflected in two young men who looked like them and had a very similar story.” The night marked a poignant conclusion to a successful first TAG group, and the boys have promised to maintain the friendships they formed in the future.

Beyond, launched in the fall of 2024, provides critical post adoption support to families who adopted out of the foster care system. The TAG group is just one of the ways it accomplishes this mission.

“The teenage years present so many joys and challenges,” Boecking said.

“Adolescence is a pivotal time of identity formation, when many young people begin to ask themselves, ‘Who am I, really?’ For adopted youth, answering that question can be especially complex.” Adopted teens are nearly twice as likely to have received mental health services compared to their non-adopted peers, according to the National Survey of Adoptive Parents (NSAP). They also report higher levels of peer problems, including difficulties making friends, per the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry.

The TAG group was created to be a supportive space where adoptees feel seen, heard, and understood while also being equipped with the tools

and confidence to navigate the unique challenges of their journey. A TAG group for girls is coming in the fall, and Boecking hopes to continue hosting these groups each year.

Visit Beyond’s web page to stay up todate on all the ways Beyond is providing support to our community.

Fathers Empowered At Circle of Care, we are committed to challenging the norm and creating a better future for the people we serve. Fathers Empowered is a program designed to equip fathers and father figures with the tools they need to build stronger connections with their children.

The Fathers Empowered program utilizes the evidence-based 24/7 Dads curriculum, which helps dads gain confidence, strengthen relationships, and develop essential fatherhood skills—all in a setting where they build connections with other dads.

“Having a great dad is something I am very appreciative of,” shared Rebecca Hodgson, director of Fathers Empowered and PAL. “My dad was always there for me and taught me so many things as a girl. Even how to fix my own roof and repair things in the home. He valued us as his children and was proud of his responsibility. This program builds families and generations.”

Candice Ott, regional program director, highlighted the program’s inclusive approach, “Something I love about this program is that it can be for any father or father figure, a big brother helping raise his younger siblings, a soon-to-be brand new dad, or maybe a dad of three hoping to learn something new. So many men can attend the Fathers Empowered groups.”

The first Fathers Empowered Workshop took place on March 6, at Abundant Life Church in Tahlequah. Fathers of various ages and backgrounds gathered for the initial session, which encouraged participants to reflect on their fathers’ parenting styles, explore the evolving role of fathers in today’s world, and discuss what it truly means to be

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a dad. The guys also enjoyed pizza, refreshments, door prizes, and gift appreciation bags donated by Billy Country radio station.

The positive engagements are already helping these men build community and feel empowered to be present, intentional, and impactful in the lives of their families.

By fostering deeper connections between fathers and their children, Fathers Empowered is working to strengthen Oklahoma families for generations to come.

A new workshop will be launching soon in McIntosh County. For more information about Fathers Empowered or to find a workshop near you, visit our website.

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Oklahoma City University

Oklahoma City University stands as one of our Annual Conference’s extension ministries, deeply rooted in its historic affiliation with The United Methodist Church. Unlike other Wesley Foundations across the state, ministry at OCU is carried out through the university itself, primarily through the Office of Religious Life and The Wesley Center, OCU’s official campus ministry. Together, these ministries nurture the spiritual life of the campus community while also equipping future church leaders through the Wimberly School of Religion. When you give through apportionments and other forms of support, you are not only sustaining the vibrant faith community at OCU, you are also investing in the education, formation, and spiritual growth of the next generation of pastors and Christian leaders.

The Spirit is moving powerfully at OCU, where The Wesley Center continues to thrive as a hub of faith, service, and community.

Over the past three and a half years, our ministry has experienced incredible growth with our average worship attendance for Wesley Worship quadrupling! Each week, students gather for Wesley Worship, a vibrant,

student-led modern worship service that centers Christ and cultivates belonging.

Between our Wesley Worship and University Worship Chapel services, we welcomed more than 150 people during the first week of this semester alone. In a campus filled with rehearsals, exams, and packed schedules, it is truly a gift to see so many students carving out sacred space to worship together and encounter God’s grace in community.

We are profoundly grateful to the churches and individuals who make this ministry possible through apportionments, designated giving, and prayer. Every Monday night, after worship, we serve a free dinner to 50–60

students, thanks to faithful congregations who faithfully sponsor, prepare, and serve these meals. One student recently said, “I can’t believe people I’ve never met care enough to feed us and pray for us.” Those dinners are more than a meal.

They are living expressions of Christ’s love, reminders that the Church extends far beyond campus, and glimpses of the Kingdom of God made real in laughter, conversation, and fellowship around the table.

We give thanks for every congregation and individual who partners with us in this sacred work. Your apportionment giving and support to Oklahoma City University not only sustains The Wesley Center and Office of Religious Life but also equips future pastors through the Wimberly School of Religion and our

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student ministry intern program. Because of you, students are encountering Christ, discovering their callings, and building a lifelong faith that will carry them far beyond their time at OCU. Thank you for believing in this ministry and for reminding our students, through every prayer, every meal, and every act of generosity, that they are loved by God and by the Church.

Blessings, Rev. Aly Shahan Director of University-Church Relations and Religious Life Oklahoma City University

Photos courtesy Oklahoma City University.

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Cookson Hills Center

Three of the four poorest counties in Oklahoma are included in the Cookson Hills service area. In the best times, food insecurity affects 16 percent of residents of this area, who are disproportionately rural and Indigenous.

Poverty within the three counties fuels isolation, domestic violence, addiction, cycles of abuse, and a deep sense of spiritual and emotional hardship.

Historically, Cookson Hills Center has tackled food insecurity, loneliness, and limited access to resources through its Combating Hunger Initiative, thrift store, Christmas store, and community events.

The primary goal of Cookson Hills Center is to aid in the embracing of spiritual well-being in relationship with Creator, creation, and community.

This is done through community building and access to resources, knowledge, and opportunities through programming. The vision of Cookson Hills is to embrace living in Indigenous lifeways in sacred community with one another and creating new cycles of healing

for all generations.

Cookson Hills has had to suspend some operations recently, but with generous support from Cookson United Methodist Church, its senior meals are still going strong. The first and third Wednesday of each month, the church hosts, prepares, and shares a meal, a devotional, and fun activities with area seniors.

The church is grateful for the support of other churches and of individuals who support the mission of Cookson Hills, even in this time of uncertainty, by providing food, monetary donations, volunteers, and more.

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Apportionments are one of the primary ways organizations like Cookson Hills Center are financed and kept alive.

Find your church’s apportionment information here.

Epworth Villa: Where Faith and Community Flourish We offer many opportunities for spiritual growth through worship, enrichment, and community: • Vibrant Spiritual Life, diverse worship services, study groups, and prayer opportunities.

• Meaningful Connections, mission and service projects that connect you to the wider community.

• Ecumenical and Inclusive, all faiths and denominations welcome.

• Compassionate Pastoral Care, dedicated chaplains and staff.

• Enriching Experiences that deepen your faith.

“We are grateful and glad.”

Pastor Laura Glover Epworth Villa Sr. Chaplain

Nurture Your Faith at Epworth Villa

Contact us today to inquire about our special discounts for clergy and their spouses.

14901 N. Pennsylvania Ave. | Oklahoma City, OK 73134 | (405) 753-9295 | EpworthVilla.org |

PET FRIENDLY

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CJAMM

We are deeply grateful for everyone who supports CJAMM (Criminal Justice And Mercy Ministries) throughout the year.

Your ongoing generosity and care make it possible for us to continue sharing hope, love, and the message of Christ in meaningful ways, especially through moments like the one coming up.

This December 5–7, CJAMM will host its second annual New “Christmas” Day at a campground, a heartwarming weekend for children ages 8 to14 who have a currently or formerly incarcerated parent.

We are looking forward to another special weekend filled with joy, laughter, and the spirit of Christmas. Each child will receive gifts, bedding, pajamas, a stocking, meals, and will even experience the magic of a Polar Express ride.

For many of these children, this may be the only Christmas they get to celebrate.

Thanks, Anne Robertson Assistant Director- Development and Operations Photos courtesy CJAMM.

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Hunger still exists. across our state. United Methodist churches in Oklahoma have been at the forefront, filling the gaps left by disrupted systems and ensuring that parents can once again provide for their children. Yet even as we give thanks for Across Oklahoma, families have this generosity, hunger still exists. struggled through the recent government shutdown. Many had to choose between As life begins to resemble what we paying rent or buying food, between call “normal,” may we not return to keeping the lights on or feeding their complacency. Let us continue the work— children. The effects of those choices sustaining these ministries, strengthening will ripple for months—late fees, shutoff communities, and walking alongside notices, delayed medications, and those who hunger. Whether that hunger is for food, friendship, spiritual care, or mounting stress. Hunger still exists. hope itself, we must remember: hunger In the face of these challenges, still exists. organizations have stepped up with compassion and creativity. New and expanded feeding programs, community meals, and food pantries have appeared We celebrate the news that SNAP benefits will continue to be funded, and we rejoice with all who will receive this vital support. Yet even in the midst of this good news, hunger still exists.

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by Rev. Carlos Ramirez Throughout my pastorate I have encountered many wonderful people who deserve to be raised up because of their dedication to the congregation and its ministry. However, I would like to write about two people who personify commitment, love for congregation and love to the mission field (love to God).

First, I will tell you about my good friend Richard Swink from Putnam City UMC (PCUMC). Richard is a lifelong member of PCUMC. When I arrived at PCUMC in 2018, Richard had arranged a very impressive analog system that allowed the recording of live “in-house” broadcasting and archive creation of worship services, sermons and special occasions (weddings, funerals,

and Christmas, for instance). He and I developed almost an instant connection due to our gadget geekiness. Needless to say, it was not long before we started to experiment with a static camera that allowed us to broadcast (via Facebook) our services.

Soon, Richard got to work and raised funds to update our tech. Three computers, three HD digital remote control cameras and a rack of equipment later, we were broadcasting at a high level by the end of 2019. Of course, we did not know what was about to happen to the world in 2020.

I think it would be unfair from me to not mention my other good friend, Sean Lynch, who spent hours fine tuning our equipment and who helped run the tech smoothly. In 2020 and part of 2021,

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Richard and Sean became an essential team that kept the equipment going so that our congregation could experience worship. Richard provided a service that allowed our congregants who were technologically not savvy to call a number and hear the worship service. Many people were happy that they were part of worship via a “simple” phone call. I know that Richard (and Sean) continue their ministry at PCUMC. Richard’s love for PCUMC and the mission field of the congregation are evident when you spend a few minutes talking with him.

completion of their appointed Tuesdays.”).

This ministry distributes all of these items on Tuesdays. Ann and the crew work tirelessly throughout the week: picking up food and/or donated items of all kinds, preparing the food, cleaning up, balancing budgets, applying for grants, and doing other miscellaneous work that needs to be accomplished. Ann and the crew do this work, not for a paycheck, not for fame, but because it is the call they have received from Christ. It is truly moving the work that the foundation does. Ann gets to lead this wonderful ministry.

The other person who I think deserves a stand alone mention is Ann Humpula from Southern Hills UMC. Actually, the whole crew that runs the Southern Hills Outreach Foundation deserves a standing ovation.

Ann leads the work of the foundation. This ministry has a humble beginning (like many ministries do!).

Southern Hills UMC congregants saw a need in downtown OKC where people experiencing homelessness gathered.

Therefore, they would cook and bring, in their own cars, food to be distributed.

Fast forward a few years later, and this ministry grew to become its own 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with a trailer and literally a whole crew that not only offers food to people but many other gifts (clothing, desserts, shoes, eye glasses, etc.) as well.

This ministry has been joined by other nonprofit and governmental organizations that provide additional services for those who attend the food distribution.

The foundation also partners with forprofit organizations that donate food (uncooked) and other items that are used to be distributed on Tuesdays (“Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these servants from the swift

As a pastor, it is a privilege to see how the Church, you all, answer Jesus’ calling.

In every place I have served, there are servants who make it possible for us to experience what the Kingdom of God is all about.

From “mundane” things like balancing a bank account, cutting grass, painting a wall, changing carpet or the all important donut station welcoming people on Sunday mornings; to fundraising, strategic visioning, marketing, building homes, running foundations, designing and running tech, leading the boards and committees that make congregations work and everything in between… ministry cannot happen without you. If you have not heard it before or recently, on behalf of the Church and the OKUMC, I want to say, good and faithful servant, THANK YOU for your service!

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We’re thankful for

VOLUNTEERS

Volunteer of the Year

!Rene McKinnon!

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Rene McKinnon embodies the true spirit of volunteerism through her unwavering service to the Oklahoma United Methodist Conference’s camping ministries. For more than five years, she has faithfully served as Camp Nurse at multiple summer camps at Canyon, caring for the health and well-being of thousands of campers with both professional excellence and Christlike compassion.

As Shyloe O’Neal writes, “Rene consistently takes vacation time from her job to serve at least five camps each summer, offering not only medical care but also a calming presence that reassures campers, parents, and staff alike.

Beyond her hands-on service, she has invested deeply in the ministry’s future— updating the Nursing Cabin, advocating for resources, and strengthening the infrastructure that supports every camp experience.” Her dedication is not occasional or convenient; it is sacrificial, sustained, and transformative.

Jason Brumit affirms Rene’s impact, sharing that “Rene’s work is more than a task; it is a ministry. She connects personally with each camper, staff member, and family she serves, offering not only medical care but also compassion, encouragement, and a listening ear. Her faith-driven service,

professionalism, and deep compassion make her an outstanding choice for this honor.”

According to Jana Douglas, “Rene is a woman of unwavering commitment and compassion, and she embodies the very spirit of our mission. For the past eight years, she has consistently volunteered at numerous conference camps, often taking her own vacation time to do so. She is a beloved figure to countless young people who, inspired by her loving spirit, have come to know her as ‘Nana.’”

Rene’s life and service exemplify the call to love and serve others. Her leadership ensures that every camper experiences a safe, nurturing environment where they can encounter God’s presence. Through her selfless dedication, she has made an extraordinary and lasting impact on generations of campers and the Oklahoma United Methodist community.

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The Nominees Jim & Aimee Porterfield Quail Springs UMC Nominated by Randy and Kay Bluethman Jim and Aimee Porterfield exemplify servant leadership through their tireless outreach to those in need. For many years, they have devoted themselves to ministries serving the homeless— organizing and providing hot meals and clothing for 100–120 Aimee and Jim Porterfield. people every Submitted photo.

Wednesday, and again on Thursdays as they prepare and deliver meals to local encampments. Their ministry has reached hundreds each month, often funded from their own pockets, and sustained entirely by compassion and faith.

Jim and Aimee’s service extends throughout the life of Quail Springs UMC. Jim shares his talents as a baritone in the choir and plays an active role in the men’s prayer breakfast, while Aimee serves faithfully with Women in Faith. Jim also drives the church van for the Women of the Traveling Van ministry, ensuring that

others can serve across Oklahoma. As their nominators write, when God asked for those with a servant’s heart, “He was surely referring to them.” Their joyful, selfless service makes them true treasures and disciples of Christ.

George Burton Village UMC Nominated by Elaine Robinson In his mid-80s, George Burton continues to embody faithful service through his hands-on ministry of maintaining the church’s facilities.

George “fixes almost everything in the building,” from running cables for Wi-Fi to repairing pumps, changing lights, and troubleshooting mechanical systems. His deep knowledge and skill have saved the church thousands of dollars and ensured that worship and ministry can continue without interruption.

George’s quiet but steady presence has become part of the life of Village UMC. He even has a small office labeled simply “George,” where everyone knows they can find a willing helper and friend. His faithfulness, humility, and dedication are a living witness to the joy of serving Christ through practical acts of love.

The A/V Crew: Tim Isenberg, Steve Creech, Justin Few, Blake Byrum, Noah Few, Josh Wilkins, and Camry Kuykendall McAlester FUMC Nominated by Rev. Dr. Stephen Hale The A/V Crew at McAlester FUMC— led by Tim Isenberg and supported by Steve Creech, Justin Few, Josh Wilkins, Blake Byrum, Noah Few, and Camry Kuykendall—faithfully dedicate their time and expertise to ensuring that worship runs smoothly each week. Together, they set up, troubleshoot, maintain, and operate the church’s sound, lighting, and projection systems, contributing roughly 20 volunteer hours each week.

Throughout an extensive construction and sanctuary remodel, the team has gone above and beyond, arriving on Fridays and Saturdays to set up and tear down equipment, often troubleshooting new technical issues before Sunday worship.

Their skills and persistence ensure that every service is a meaningful experience for those attending in person and online.

Rev. Hale writes, “We would be lost without them.” This devoted group exemplifies teamwork, dedication, and the spirit of joyful service that strengthens the entire church.

Sharon Kinzie Lost Creek UMC Nominated by Michael Carpenter Sharon Kinzie is the embodiment of servant leadership, offering her many gifts in both church and community. Within Lost Creek UMC, she chairs the Nurture Ministries Team, teaches the PreK and Kindergarten Sunday School class, serves on the Prayer Team, and is a Stephen Minister. She also volunteers in worship as

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an AV technician and Scripture reader.

Outside the church, Sharon’s ministry reaches across borders. As part of the annual Belize Mission Team, she not only serves faithfully but also offers professional training for teachers on supporting students with dyslexia, drawing from her background as a certified academic language therapist. Locally, she provides worship leadership as a certified lay servant and helps direct the Neighborhood Ministries food pantry at Perkins First UMC, distributing 30,000 pounds of food each year to families in need.

Michael Carpenter writes that Sharon “is motivated by a love for God and neighbor which calls her into selfless acts of service.”

Her humility and joy inspire all who know her. Sharon truly reflects the light of Christ, encouraging others to serve with the same grace and compassion.

Kelley Gillock FUMC Yukon Nominated by Brooke Willis Kelley Gillock’s steady presence and compassionate leadership have been vital to the children and youth ministries at Yukon FUMC. As chair of the Youth Council, she helps plan, organize, and guide the direction of the program, always ensuring that youth have meaningful opportunities to grow in faith.

Kelley volunteers at youth dinners, events, and activities—often stepping in wherever needed. Beyond her work with youth, she supports the children’s ministry and continuously seeks new ways to help the church thrive. Her dedication, kindness, and willingness to serve make her an invaluable part of the church family and a

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shining example of faithful discipleship.

Patricia Hudson Purcell Trinity UMC Nominated by Tracy Hoskins Patricia Hudson’s creativity and compassion have transformed ministry and mission work at Purcell Trinity UMC. She leads a group of women who sew dresses and menstrual kits for girls in Tanzania, as well as quilts, eyeglass cases, and other items for Skyline Urban Ministry.

When a hairstylist wanted to give free haircuts, Patricia organized a community event providing haircuts and toiletries for children—a ministry that continues to grow under her leadership.

and prayer stitched into every piece.

The group’s commitment of time and craftsmanship reflects their devotion to sharing God’s love in tangible ways.

Bill Piersall Wickline UMC Nominated

by Durenda Hardy

For more than fifty years, Bill Piersall has been an indispensable part of Patricia also volunteers at Lexington UMC’s Wickline food pantry and readily steps into any United ministry where help is needed. Her vision Methodist and willingness to serve have expanded Church, Trinity UMC’s impact locally and globally.

Bill Piersall. Submitted photo. serving with Because of her dedication, countless humility, people have experienced the love and talent, and care of Christ through practical acts of a joyful spirit. A lifelong member, Bill kindness. has blessed nearly every area of church life—music, administration, facilities, and hospitality. A gifted musician, he helped Lydia Quilting Group organize the church’s Praise Band, sings First United Methodist Church of Yukon in the choir, and performs with joy and Nominated by Kelley Gillock enthusiasm.

The Lydia Quilting Group of Yukon FUMC Bill’s leadership has extended to embodies patience, love, and generosity nearly every committee, including through the art of quilting. This dedicated the Administrative Board, Staff-Parish team creates beautiful, hand-sewn quilts— Relations, Finance, Worship, and Trustees. an intricate and time-intensive labor of His experience and steady hand have love—and gives them to new babies, guided the church through decades of families in need, and others within and growth and change. He is also known beyond the congregation. for his outstanding cooking—leading Wednesday night meals, preparing food Their work not only provides warmth for special events, and organizing weekly and comfort but also symbolizes the care dinners for the local high school football

team.

Whether leading construction projects, fixing equipment, or welcoming guests, Bill’s faithful service has shaped Wickline’s identity. As his nominator writes, “Our church is truly the beneficiary of his talent, humble dedication, and Christian approach to living.”

Sandra (Sandy) Kernes Geary FUMC Nominated by Pastor Angela Fleming

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Glen Haworth Enid FUMC Nominated by Melissa Tesson Glen Haworth’s quiet, consistent service ensures that both church and community ministries thrive. From volunteering at the local food kitchen to handling recycling, fire safety checks, and maintenance at the church, Glen is always willing to lend a hand wherever needed.

Since joining Geary FUMC, Sandy Kernes has transformed her church through organization, creativity, and a deep love for God’s people.

He coordinates the When Pastor Fleming mentioned church’s blessing box, creating a prayer room, Sandy provides behind-theimmediately made it happen— scenes support for repurposing a vacant classroom Glen Haworth. Submitted photo. outreach projects, into a beautiful, peaceful space and helps ensure at no cost to the church. Her daily operations run organizational skills have revitalized smoothly. Melissa Tesson writes, “If you nearly every area of the building, from the need something, Glen is always there.” His nursery and children’s areas to the choir dependability and humble heart make him room and common spaces. an essential part of the Enid FUMC family.

Sandy assists with liturgy, volunteers as a greeter, prepares newsletters for mailing, Tuesday Outreach Ministry and co-leads monthly community meals Edmond FUMC with the lay speaker. She also extends the Nominated by Rev. Tiffany Nagel Monroe church’s ministry beyond its walls—sharing newsletters, The Upper Room devotionals, Tuesday Outreach is a faithful team and information about the church’s of laity who have served meals to the outreach programs with local organizations hungry every week for years—without and veterans’ groups. fail, regardless of weather or holidays.

The team shops, prepares, and assembles Pastor Fleming describes her as “a meals for drive-thru and drop-in guests, blessing for us and those who enter serving individuals experiencing into our place of worship.” Her energy, homelessness, families in need, and even compassion, and creativity make Sandy a university students, including UCO’s vital part of the church’s mission. women’s basketball team. They also

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provided meals for Project Transformation this summer.

This multigenerational team begins each service day with devotion and prayer, embodying their commitment to being the hands and feet of Christ.

Their partnerships with Sunday School classes, youth groups, and local charities have expanded the ministry’s reach and strengthened the congregation’s witness.

Rev. Monroe writes, “They never quit, never miss a week, and always care for everyone they encounter.” Tuesday Outreach’s unwavering love and service truly shine as a beacon of hope and discipleship.

Clarence Kelly FUMC Yukon Nominated by Heather Thomas and John P. Tulp Clarence Kelly is the kind of volunteer every church dreams of having— dependable, joyful, and devoted.

He faithfully serves Yukon FUMC seven days a week, performing countless behind-theClarence Kelly. Submitted photo. scenes tasks that keep the church running smoothly. Clarence cleans up after services, opens and locks doors, assists at events from start to finish, and even makes

the coffee.

His kindness and cheerful spirit bring joy to everyone he meets. As Heather Thomas writes, “He is always smiling and happy. He brings joy to the church.” Whether serving as head usher, funeral host, or quiet helper, Clarence’s dedication reflects his deep love for God and community.

Davis Merrey FUMC Yukon Nominated by Rita West Davis Merrey is the steady presence behind the soundboard at Yukon FUMC. Week after week, he faithfully operates the media and sound system for every Sunday service, as well as for funerals, meetings, and other church events.

His consistency and attention to detail ensure that worship services run smoothly and that everyone can fully participate in the experience.

Davis’s quiet dedication exemplifies the unseen but vital work that makes ministry possible.

Mary Fauser FUMC Yukon Nominated by Christine Wagner Mary Fauser’s leadership and warmth have been vital to Yukon FUMC’s worship and community life. She stepped into the role of Worship Committee chair and has guided the congregation through seasons of change, especially in the years following COVID. Mary recruits and coordinates volunteers, organizes worship elements, and ensures that each service

runs smoothly and with care.

Beyond worship, Mary plays a key role in the church’s long-running Groundhog Dinner fundraiser, engaging members personally to build participation and community spirit. She also sings in the choir and helps with numerous church events.

Christine Wagner writes, “Mary, with her capacity to serve and her acceptance and kindness toward others, is a beacon for the church.” Her leadership reflects the heart of Christian service—welcoming, faithful, and full of grace.

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