n February, I was honored to be nominated for, and receive, the 2024 Ron Council Mentorship Award from the Alabama chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. I was both surprised and humbled by the recognition.
While such an award from peer professionals testifies of one’s expertise and influence, I couldn’t help but wonder, why me. I’m just doing what is a natural part of my DNA –passing on my knowledge and experiences to help others on their journey to becoming experts in their own right.
But as I thought about the award in even broader terms, mentoring should be part of all our DNAs. As Christians, God asks us all to serve as witnesses of the gospel, helping our brothers and sisters along their spiritual journeys. His spiritual gifts include giving wisdom, teaching, and offering encouragement. Many of Paul’s letters focus on being each other’s keeper, building each other up, and doing good.
While the degree of each member’s gifts, talents, and spheres of influence may vary, we can all mentor, whether individuals or groups of people. And we have so many ways available to do that. All of our church ministries offer opportunities for members and attendees to mentor others. The O.C. H.I.G.H. groups, profiled in this issue, foster community and connection. My communication team is hosting Oakwood University students this semester as interns to put their classroom knowledge into practice. Our church facility has even been redesigned to encourage interpersonal interaction.
So, although recognition makes one feel appreciated, let’s remember we don’t mentor for that reason. We should mentor because God asks us to, and the ultimate recognition will be the stars in our crown signifying how many we led to Jesus Christ.
InOther WORDS...
Art
Welcome to the OUC Family!
Baptisms 12/24 - 3/25
Jovan Baskerville
Gertrude Brazelton
Nelson Brown Jr.
Savannah Follette
Leah Morgan Franklin
Landon Garnett
Abigail Arethea Geddes
Emery Andrias Hairston
Gabriel Owen Hairston
James J. Hairston
Sarah Anna Hairston
Nyrique C. Jackson-Butler
Yashieka Jackson
Brittani Johnson
Lydia Crystin
Nyla Jade Percy
Alexcia
Antania Ross
McIlwain
Hedy B.
Cameron Saunders
Aubrey Nicole Smith Lia Watson Tiara White
How Well Do You Know
thatVOICE?
epending on where you’re from, you may be familiar with the novel “The Adventures of Pinocchio” by Italian author Carlo Collodi. Although the lengthy story is the starting point for many versions, I’ll admit that I’m most familiar with the Disney animated movie.
In the movie, a lonely carpenter makes a marionette in the likeness of a little wooden boy. After he wishes on a star and falls asleep, a blue fairy visits the shop and brings Pinocchio to life. Once alive, the fairy tells him he will become a real boy when he proves himself worthy. But when it is clear that he can’t differentiate between right and wrong, a talking cricket named Jiminy steps forward and volunteers to be his conscience.
Unfortunately, Jiminy fails miserably on his first day at the job. Aside from being late to his assignment, he can’t keep Pinocchio out of danger. Midway through the puppet’s perilous adventure, Jiminy quits, frustrated that the little wooden boy won’t listen to anything he’s saying. As a result, Pinocchio finds himself in trouble, putting everyone around him in grave danger.
Some of you may blame Jiminy. You may think that Pinocchio had no chance because the cricket left in the boy’s time of need. However, let me remind those who have seen the movie that Pinocchio rushed forward without the still, small voice to accompany him because he was excited to see what the world had to offer. And because Jiminy spends most of the time trying to catch up, he is not there for the critical decisions to keep the puppet out of life-threatening situations. But the truth is Pinocchio met Jiminy the day before, and because they had no relationship, he was not used to carrying the insect with him.
How many of us are living a Pinocchio-like existence? In our rush to begin our day or to make serious decisions, we leave our conscience behind. We use the excuse that we don’t have time for worship, or the morning is too busy for prayer, and in those declarations, we intentionally ignore our conscience. Man will have you believe that your conscience is merely a feeling that tells you what is right or wrong, but I believe it is a God-given faculty that can only be activated when we seek a relationship with Him.
John 10:27 says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” In order to know the sound of that voice, we must first become familiar with it. And through this relationship, we can let our conscience be our guide.
Making History Come Alive
If you’ve stopped to look at the digital screens on the walls of the church corridors just beyond the main lobby, you’ve seen the history of OUC’s pastors in living color. This is the product of months of research and compilation done by a committee of dedicated people led by Dr. Timothy McDonald, our church historian.
“I have to trace my love of history to two people,” says McDonald. “My mother got me interested in family history and my high school teacher, Mr. Johnson, brought historical characters alive by dressing up like Napoleon or Julius Ceasar.”
Although his original goal was to become a history teacher, McDonald’s path veered into education. After graduating from Oakwood College in 1963, he spent six years as a teacher and elementary school principal, including Oakwood’s then Anna Knight Elementary School.
Having worked for or known every president of Oakwood University, McDonald has been steeped in black Adventist history. So, when he heard that OUC’s historian position was vacant, his love of history compelled him to nominate himself.
McDonald’s next project is writing the history of Oakwood University Church. As the Israelites were admonished to preserve their history to help inform their future, McDonald sees OUC’s history the same way. “I want our church history to be a guidepost for where we are now and a road map for where we’re going based on what we’ve learned from our past.”
Do You Know?
Who served as pastor of the Oakwood College Church and later as Oakwood University President?
Who was the first pastor to merge the Breath of Life television ministry with pastoring the church?
Timothy McDonald By
Who was the first African American to pastor the Oakwood Jr. College Church?
Patti Conwell Story by
NutritionalPowerhouses
DARK GREEN LEAFY VEGETABLES
Dark green leafy vegetables like collard greens, kale, and spinach, are nutritional powerhouses packed with essential vitamins and minerals. They are rich in vitamin A, crucial for vision and immune function, and vitamin K, which supports bone health and normal blood clotting. Their high vitamin B9 (folate) content makes them especially important for cell growth and brain function.
One of their most notable benefits is their abundance of antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and lutein, which help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. Their fiber content aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar. Additionally, these greens are low in calories yet nutrient-dense, making them an excellent choice for maintaining a healthy weight.
Here are some quick, easy meal ideas:
1. Green Smoothie: Blend spinach, banana, almond milk, and a handful of berries and nuts* for a nutritious start to the day. *optional
2. Sautéed Greens: Lightly sauté kale with garlic and olive oil for a flavorful dish.
3. Pasta Boost: Stir chopped spinach into pasta sauce or mix it into mac and cheese for extra nutrients.
4. Veggie Wraps: Use collard greens as a wrap, stuffing them with hummus, avocado, and fresh veggies.
5. Egg Scramble: Add spinach or kale to scrambled eggs for a quick, protein-packed breakfast.
Incorporating greens daily can fuel your body with lasting energy and vibrant health! Live. Life. Abundantly! John 10:10.
Reference: Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism, 8th Edition, Sareen S. Gropper, 2022
LIGHT YOUR F.U.S.E AT OUC
Community, faith, and connection; these words beautifully capture the essence of Oakwood University Church's Singles Ministry called F.U.S.E. (Faith Uniting the Single Experience).
In February, F.U.S.E. hosted a vibrant and festive event, "Rep Your Color Day Party," where long-time and new members gathered to fellowship and have fun. Attendees showed up dressed in their favorite colors, each accessorized with thoughtfully color-coordinated gift baskets, creating an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie.
In the coming months, F.U.S.E. has exciting events planned. In April, the ministry will visit the Manna House to serve a comforting meal, share the Word of God, and provide uplifting music for their church service. In May, a special Mother’s Day brunch will honor and celebrate single mothers. Keep an eye out for event location and details on how to register to attend.
All adult singles are invited to join F.U.S.E. and to attend F.U.S.E. Unplugged, a monthly virtual gathering on Zoom. F.U.S.E. Unplugged offers a wonderful opportunity for singles to connect and engage in conversation exploring topics on living positively, achieving prosperity for the glory of God, and embracing a fulfilling Christian single lifestyle. F.U.S.E. Unplugged meets every third Friday of the month at 6:00 p.m.
(See the weekly eNews Bulletin for the Zoom link.)
Dr. Sherine Brown-Fraser, Ph.D., RD, LDN, CPT Health Ministries Leader
Story by
Isis Butler By
Breast Health
In January, OUC members were invited to join eight groups designed to create personal connections while offering practical information and activities. Known as O.C.
H.I.G.H. (Hobbies, Interests, Groups, & Huddles), these groups ran for six weeks beginning February 2.
“The goal,” says Pastor Snell, “was to create ways to make our large church small by creating fellowship through shared interest outside of our divine worship service.”
Below are highlights of the inaugural O.C. H.I.G.H. groups:
Prostate Health
As a prostate cancer survivor, David McElhaney started this group for those wanting further knowledge about prostate health.
McElhaney says he’s found that men are inadequately spreading this information. By expanding individuals’ knowledge on this topic, McElhaney aims to share the importance of prostate health to prevent people from finding out this information too late. (Register now for the prostate health seminar on April 13.)
The Breast Health group is more than just a campaign – it’s a ministry of awareness, action, and support. Led by Dr. Lilith Whyte, this group educated women about early detection, encouraged healthy habits, and uplifted both those battling breast cancer and those who have survived. While October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Whyte reminds us, “It is more than just a month. Prevention is better than cure.”
Boxing Group
Inspired by his own training, Men’s Ministries leader, Adrian Hargrove, launched a boxing group at the Rocket City Boxing Gym. Gym owner, Coach Sergio, focused on helping participants build a strong foundation both physically and spiritually, encouraging everyone to rise after setbacks. This group’s main goal was to bridge the gap between Oakwood Church and the community, offering fellowship and growth through shared struggles while fostering discipline.
Fitness Bootcamp
Fitness Bootcamp was available to all ages, from young to older adults, wanting
STARTS CONNECTIONS O.C. H.I.G.H.
to focus on their physical health. Shantel Wise, co-director, said it’s rewarding to see people stay consistent no matter where they are on their fitness journey. Her goal is to grow this group with more participants to help OUC and community members maintain healthy bodies.
Cookin’ Up Good Health
Cookin’ Up Good Health put participants to work cooking plant-based recipes created by group founder Donna Green-Goodman. At the end of each session, the cooks enjoyed the meals they created. Goodman shared her journey through breast cancer and health transformation from plant-based eating. With Exodus 15:26 as her guiding verse, Goodman encourages others to take charge of their health and embrace lasting dietary change. (Learn more and explore her cookbook at lifestyletheraputix.com.)
Content Creation/ Entrepreneurship
Leaders Kirk Nugent and Terrell Davis provided guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs and content creators. They fostered a community where members could share their struggles, successes, and resources. They emphasized the power of consistency while encouraging new and upcoming entrepreneurs to take things one at a time. This group was a valuable resource offering support, insight, and motivation to anyone looking to start their own business.
Scrapbooking
Scrapbooking offered members the opportunity to create personalized keepsakes. This group fostered creativity, fun, and a sense of community. Group leader Jea Joseph offered members the chance to try something new to show their creativity. Many participants joined because of their fond memories of making scrapbooks in their younger years. This craft of storytelling allowed members to preserve cherished moments while connecting with others.
If any of these groups peaked your interest, look out for another set of O.C. H.I.G.H. groups to launch in the fall and plan to join in.
Nirel Miller-Morrison, OUC Public Relations Intern
