InOther
WORDS... SUM VOLUME IX •
26 MER 20
Resetfor
PURPOSE Side by Side We Stand
INSIDE THIS ISSUE The Mid-way Reset
by Pastor Debleaire K. Snell
Celebrating our 2026 Graduates by Maquisha Mullins
Follow us:
AYM at the Rock Quarry by Pastor Kimberly Mann
PATRICE THOMAS CONWELL
elcome to our first summer issue of “In Other Words.” The OUC was so busy in the spring that we couldn’t let the entire summer pass without recapping some events and celebrations, in hopes that if you missed anything, you’ll plan to join in next time. We’ve also given a tiny preview of what’s coming in the new school year as we swiftly move toward wrapping up 2026. Enjoy the few weeks of summer that’s left, and let’s plan to work together even more to make OUC the church that Christ intended.
InOther
WORDS... VOLUME IX
SUMMER 2026
Managing Editor Patrice Thomas Conwell
Kimberly Mann Taina Nixon
Michael Ross
Art Direction/Design Jerry Ross Chad Lupoe
Pastoral Staff Debleaire K. Snell
Visitation Pastor
Graphic Designer
Editorial Contributors George Cartwright Maquisha Mullins Photographers Alvin Goulbourne Jr. Choya Wise George Cartwright
Senior Pastor
Meshach Mauia Associate Pastor
Kimberly Mann
Children, Youth, Young Adult Pastor
Christopher Dorsey Discipleship Pastor
Kirk Nugent Media Pastor
Grief Pastor
Alfred Johnson
In Other Words… is a publication of the Oakwood University Church 5500 Adventist Blvd., Huntsville, AL 35896 (256) 837-1255 www.oucsda.org For submission guidelines, send your inquiry to: communication@oucsda.org
the
Mid-way
RESET A MESSAGE FROM OUR SENIOR PASTOR DEBLEAIRE K. SNELL
hen I was growing up, our school year didn’t consist of half-days, weather days, or weeklong Thanksgiving breaks. Students were in the classroom from September to June, and because there were fewer holiday observances then, summer break was that much sweeter.
God even designed nature to reset itself after six months for new growth”
What I didn’t realize until I became older is that the three-month respite was less about giving kids the freedom to watch TV, play outside, or go to camp, and more about giving everyone and everything a moment to reset before the next school year.
Isn’t it funny how everything has a rhythm of reset to prepare for something new? Phone manufacturers will tell you that after a while, it’s important to restart or reset your phone so it runs a little more efficiently. God even designed nature to reset itself after six months for new growth. If God designed nature to reset to get ready for new things, and man invents machines that should reset to run more efficiently, shouldn’t we engage in the same practice? Whether it’s plans to lose weight, spend time with the family, or increase time with God, instead of waiting for January, let’s use the last few weeks of summer to reset.
TR
OUC IN
We bid the Raphaels goodbye… It’s hard to believe that we won’t see Brother IDK’s cockeyed wig or hear the kid-friendly tunes created and sung by Pastor and Mrs. Raphael. The OUC family bid the Raphael family a bittersweet yet warm farewell as they left our congregation to lead the New Heights SDA Church in Jackson, Mississippi. OUC members packed the Family Life Center to celebrate the work of the Raphael family in leading many children to Christ through Oaktown. Their creativity and devotion to preparing the next generation has set a foundation that OUC leaders will continue to build on. We pray God’s blessings on Pastor Marc and Rhonda Raphael and family as they use their anointed gifts to enlarge their territory.
RANSITION By
Patrice Thomas Conwell, Managing Editor
…and prepare to welcome Pastor Claudia Allen You may have heard her in the OUC pulpit or on YouTube videos or on other speaker platforms. If not, get ready for Pastor Claudia Allen’s energetic delivery as a powerful force for Christ. Claudia M. Allen is a “dedicated and ordained elder with a profound commitment to spreading faith and fostering community.” In addition to theological education, Allen is involved in contemporary discussions on social justice and faith. She’s earned certificates in “Theology & Racialized Policing” from Howard University School of Divinity; “Promoting Racial Equity in the Workplace” from Harvard University’s Kennedy Executive Education Program; and “Community Engagement: Collaborating for Change” from the University of Michigan. Allen is currently pursuing her Master of Divinity degree with a certificate in Human Rights at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology.
“I have become aware that, in order for our church to make a difference, we need to be present at town hall meetings, voter registration rallies, and community outreach initiatives,” says Pastor Debleaire Snell. “I am elated that Pastor Claudia M. Allen will be installed in September of 2026 to serve as our Associate Pastor responsible for community engagement and social justice. “God is shaping the Oakwood University Church to do a mighty thing. And I know this amazing addition to our church family will not only aid us in changing our communities or even our state but also help us fulfill Jesus Christ’s Great Commission!”
g n i r o n o H THE MOTHERS By
Adrian Hargrove, Men’s Ministry Leader
The Mother’s Day Brunch beautifully celebrated the incredible women who nurture, lead, serve, and love so faithfully within our Oakwood University Church (OUC). The Family Life Center was filled with laughter, heartfelt conversations, and an atmosphere of gratitude as mothers, grandmothers, daughters, and special guests gathered to be honored. The Golden Pineapple catered a delicious brunch while the smooth, soulful sounds of saxophonist Tommy Friend created the perfect atmosphere. The program featured meaningful moments of connection, heartfelt words of encouragement, and special recognitions that reminded every
OF OUC
woman of her God-given value, the countless ways she reflects Christ’s love, and her lasting impact. Thank you to the dedicated volunteers, ministry leaders, and everyone who contributed their time, talents, and resources to make this event possible. Your commitment helped create an experience that left many feeling encouraged, seen, and deeply appreciated. We thank God for the opportunity to celebrate the remarkable women of OUC and look forward to continuing to create spaces that affirm, support, and remind them of the lasting difference they make every day.
A FATHER’S DAY TO REMEMBER By
Malcolm G. Taylor III, First Elder & Family Life Ministries Co-leader
There is a not so silent joke that Father’s Day is just another forgotten day. A day with unwanted gifts that probably won’t be used. An outing that is far from the ideal place that dads want to spend their day. Well, this was not so for the fathers at Oakwood University Church (OUC). We were celebrated in an unforgettable way by the women of OUC Family Ministries. The women served fathers their meal and finished it with something to drink. We were recognized in our surprise video and picture slides.
We played games and enjoyed laughter and conversation. We were all impressed with the genuine spirit of service we experienced during this celebration. We’re looking forward to next year’s Father’s Day celebration. The fathers of OUC who attended this event give a heartfelt thank you to the women of OUC Family Ministries. The reflection of love and appreciation is still reverberating within us. May God continue to bless His children as we minister to one another. Amen!
Celebrating OUR 2026 GRADUATES By
Maquisha Mullins, Contributing Editor
It was a time of celebration as the Oakwood University Church (OUC) Education Department, spearheaded by Pastor Kimberly Mann, recognized the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 during divine worship service on Sabbath, June 13, 2026. Graduates from kindergarten through the doctoral level were honored for their academic achievements. All graduates were invited to submit information about the academic level they completed and the diploma or degree they received during this year’s spring graduation season. OUC has a longstanding tradition of celebrating educational achievement and encouraging the pursuit of lifelong learning among its members.
This tradition is deeply rooted in the church’s history, which began more than 125 years ago alongside the faculty and student community of Oakwood University. Dr. Dawn Turner, leader of the education team, shared words of encouragement to the graduates. She reminded the congregation that even those who may not “love school” should strive to love education and embrace the lifelong process of learning and personal growth. Continuous growth provides the foundation for success — not only in academics — but in every area of life. The OUC congratulates all of our 2026 graduates. We’re proud of your accomplishments and look forward to celebrating your continued success in the years ahead.
the Graduates ELEMENTARY
HIGH SCHOOL
FOUR-YEAR
Rayah Boatright
Joshua Baker II
Joseph Brandon
Cydney Boatright
Samuel Breubraun
Sabrina Collins
Aubrey Dudley
Michaela Chapple
Brian Dublin Jr.
Teagan Mann
Essien Douglas
Alexys Green
Bubba Mauia (K)
Bruklyn Dublin
Jared Mullins
Jamie Mauia
Arihanna Jones
Cameron J. Sanders
Lynix Meikle
William Jones
Sydney Taylor
Sydni Parker
Lyric Meikle
Ludivine Toussay
Yadiel Pellot-Richards
Darin Mullins
Haley Whyte
Ainsworth Smith
Jamel Myrie
Sydney Wilson
Kingston Smith
Kara Polite
Aiden Williams
Anthony Ross Singletary
Kai Williams
Logan Smith
Kyan Williams
Journi Wise
Melody Wright
GRADUATE SCHOOL Autumn Alexander
Lita Jones
Candice Morgan
Brelynn Bryant
Brie Meikle
Stephania Pierre
Danielle Hannah
India Meikle
OUC MEMBERS
RUN THE RACE By
George Cartwright, Contributing Editor
This past Memorial Day a group of Oakwood University Church (OUC) members joined runners from across Huntsville and beyond for the 46th annual Cotton Row Run. One of the South’s premier Memorial Day marathons, the Cotton Row Run is held in downtown Huntsville. The event features a 10k and 5k run, and a 1-mile kids fun run, and honors military members who sacrificed their lives for our freedoms. OUC members participated in all three runs, representing our church with energy, determination and fellowship. These members took to the streets to not only challenge themselves physically, but to also celebrate community, health and perseverance. The run gave members the opportunity to connect beyond the church walls while actively working to become the church that Christ intended regarding health. This run reminds us that honoring God includes caring for our bodies. We celebrate everyone who participated, whether walking, running, cheering, or otherwise supporting participants from the sidelines. We encourage even more members to join with us for the Cotton Row Run next year.
AYM AT THE
ROCK QUARRY By
Kimberly Mann
OUC Associate Pastor for Children, Youth & Young Adults
On June 13, Oakwood University Church (OUC), in partnership with our Youth Department, Oakwood University (OU), and the OU Police Department, hosted a Family & Friends Sabbath afternoon hike to the Rock Quarry. With the help of Officer Sanders and the OUPD, nearly 200 people ‒ including guests coming from as far as Georgia ‒ friends, families, children of all ages and people of all abilities enjoyed a beautiful afternoon of worship and fellowship in God’s creation. While the hike started out hot, and the uphill climb challenged a few of us, everyone encouraged one another along the way. Once we reached the top, we sang well-loved AY songs, prayed, shared testimonies, and reflected on God’s goodness while taking in the incredible view and watching the children play by the cool water. We closed our family and friends hike with a special request, “Side by Side We Stand,” a fitting reminder that we are stronger when we journey together. It was a meaningful day of community, worship, and creating memories that will stay with us for years to come.
Welcome
to the OUC Family!
Baptisms 03/26 - 06/26 Ronnie Abrams Paul Anderson Mike Bellamy Emaya Blanc K’sia Byass Ayawovi Esther DaCruz Ayawovi Akpédjé DaCruz Jochebed Akouvi DaCruz Joshua Adam Koffi DaCruz Koami DaCruz Kwasi Michael DaCruz Zechariah Kossi DaCruz Roger Dickerson
Luana Downs Reginald Rice Trevees Gazi Kaitlyn Shields Yonah Gazi Reah Stevenson Selah Gazi Amilliana Wade Lauren Gilbert Allanah Wells Ryleigh Hickson Katelyn Denise Huffman James Jack Jamila Kwarterly Naftal Morara Kendra Myrie Lionardo Philipp Justin L. Revels
O U C E V E N T C A L E N DA R AU GUST 01
Communion Sabbath
08
President Gina Spivey-Brown
09
Annual Campus Prayer Walk
15
Online Praise-a-thon Fundraiser
22
OU Blessing of the Hands
23
Church Family Cookout
26-29 OU President’s Week of Prayer
SE PTE MB E R cont. 26 26
Couples’ In-Person Fun Night
30
OU LIVE Begins
O CTOB E R 03
S EPT E MBE R 5
OAA Alumni Weekend
13
OU and OUC Agape Day Collaboration
13
HUDDLE Groups Begin
19
IRL Weekend
OU Power-packed Weekend
with Pastor Henry Wright
OU LIVE Ends
18-31 OUC Revival at Alabama A&M 24
Huntsville’s Got Talent Competition
30-31 Vision and Dreamers Conference