the magazine of ozark christian college
SUMMER WINTER 2016 UNCHANGING TRUTH FOR FROM JOPLIN TO THE CHANGING TIMES ENDS OF THE EARTH Envisioning the kingdom A truly global impact possibilities of technology p. 4 p. 4 KINGDOM
WITHOUT BOUNDARIES FOOTPRINTS Extending OCCOzark’s alumni mission in every through online learning corner of the world p. 69 NEXTPIERCY LEVEL MITCH Ozark’s new initiative From Impact Brass & to equiptoyour church Singers IT Director p. 24 p. 19
How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news! Romans 10:15
Technology and the Gospel
Kingdom FOOTPRINTS
“Ozark’s online program fits with my schedule and helps me do what God is calling me to do. I can take what I’m learning and apply it to my job the very next day.” Ashley Le Blanc
OCC online student
Training workers already in the field. occ.edu/online
CONTENTS TO INSPIRE President’s Perspective Matt Proctor
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Three initiatives to prepare future kingdom leaders
Leaving Kingdom Footprints
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Men and women used for His purposes
From Coast to Coast Matt Proctor
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OCC alumni bring good news nationwide
Around the World Matt Proctor and Dru Ashwell Five international servants – one eternal mission
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TO INFORM In Memoriam
Remembering beloved OCC freshman, Jensen Smith
Campus News
Recent happenings at OCC
The Big Picture
A snapshot of life around campus
New Testament Words Kenny Boles
An in-depth look at the language of Scripture
Meet Your OCC Family
Introducing Ozark’s faculty member, Dr. Mark Scott
Coming Soon
Upcoming events at OCC
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TO CONNECT Here’s an Idea Jim Dalrymple
Announcing a new resource from OCC
Your Partnership David Duncan
Helpful tools for Christian stewardship
Alumni News
Updates from alumni around the world
Outstanding Alumnus Awards
Giving honor to whom honor is due
One More Thing Amy Storms
A final thought from our assistant editor
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The Ambassador magazine is published four times each year to inspire, inform and connect the Ozark Christian College family. Editorial Team: Dru Ashwell, Kathy Bowers, Jim Dalrymple, Jill English, Amy Storms Graphic Design: Little Bird Marketing Photo Contributors: Alia Alzyoud, Keaton Baker, David Summerlin Contact Us: Ozark Christian College 1111 N. Main Joplin, MO 64801 alumni@occ.edu
The ultimate mission of Ozark Christian College is to glorify God by evangelizing the lost and edifying Christians worldwide. The immediate mission of OCC is to train men and women for Christian service as a degree-granting institution of biblical higher education.
PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE
KINGDOM FOOTPRINTS: FROM JOPLIN TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH Matt Proctor
In 1942, a small group of Christian leaders in northwest Arkansas had a dream—a school dedicated to training men and women for Christian service. They started Ozark Bible College in Bentonville, Arkansas, and prayed God would use it to “send out workers into his harvest field” (Matthew 9:38).
Not a Global Crossroads . . .
Today, Bentonville is the global headquarters for the world’s largest company, Wal-Mart, but back then it was just a sleepy little town. So in 1944, our founders decided Bentonville was never going to amount to much, and they moved the college to the bigger, bustling city of Joplin, Missouri. Clearly they were preachers, not prophets. Joplin is a nice place to live, but we’re not exactly a teeming, cosmopolitan metropolis. We’re just a small, Midwestern city in what those on the coasts call “flyover country.” Can anything really important happen here? When my son Luke was eight years old, he was fascinated with pilot Charles Lindbergh. (Luke and Lindbergh share a February 4 birthday.) After reading about Lindbergh’s solo flight across the Atlantic in The Spirit of St. Louis, Luke said, “Dad, I’m going to build a plane someday, too. I’m going to call it The Spirit of Missouri.” With a little embarrassment, he explained, “I thought about calling it The Spirit of Joplin, but . . . well . . . you know.” I smiled. I did know. Joplin’s name is not synonymous with epic adventures or great feats. It is not a vacation destination or a global crossroads like New York or LA or even Bentonville.
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. . . But a Truly Global Impact
Next year marks Ozark Christian College’s 75th anniversary, and looking back, we see God has answered our founders’ prayers more than they could’ve imagined. Today, Ozark is one of the nation’s largest undergraduate Bible colleges, and some 15,000 alumni have now served in all 50 states and over 100 countries, like: • Etienne Prophete, who helped plant 57 churches in Haiti that have reached thousands for Christ. • Roy Weece, longtime campus minister at the University of Missouri, who baptized over 10,000 people in his lifetime. • Marsha Relyea, who, with her husband John, translated the New Testament into the Aruamu language so 10,000 people in the South Pacific could read about Jesus. To think: those are just three stories. Imagine how many millions of lives all 15,000 alumni have touched! By God’s grace, this little college in “flyover country” has had a global impact. Our graduates have taken the gospel to six of the seven continents. (And if God calls one of our alumni to Antarctica, I’m sure they’ll go!) As retired Alumni Director Meredith Williams said, “The sun never sets on our alumni.” Ozark graduates have tracked a little bit of Joplin soil to the four corners of the earth, leaving “kingdom footprints” all around the world. “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:15)
Matt Proctor has served as president of Ozark Christian College since 2006.
A Campaign to Continue the Mission . . .
As we approach our 75th year, we thank God for his faithfulness, and we trust he will continue to use Ozark in the future. After all, our mission remains unchanged. The dream that motivated our founders back in 1942 still drives us today. Over two-thirds of the world’s population does not know Jesus as Savior. The harvest is still plentiful, and the workers are still few (Matthew 9:37). There is still a great need for kingdom leaders—men and women who dedicate their working lives to share the gospel with the world. So how should Ozark prepare for the next 75 years? Last year, the college’s leadership planned a capital campaign called Kingdom Footprints with three initiatives that will position the college to prepare kingdom leaders for years to come.
Ozark graduates have tracked a little bit of Joplin soil to the four corners of the earth, leaving “kingdom footprints” all around the world.
. . . With Three Important Projects
The first initiative is the Chapel Expansion. Chapel is the weekly heartbeat of Ozark, keeping our focus on Christ, and it also hosts thousands of visitors each year at the college’s special events. This project will expand the auditorium seating, enlarge the lobby, double the restroom facilities, and install an elevator for full handicapped accessibility. The second initiative is the Idleman Ministry Center. This new building, named in honor of former OCC President Ken and Kaylene Idleman, will serve as a connecting place for students seeking ministry opportunities. The Ministry Center will house the Placement, Internship and Christian Service offices. It will also include a conference room, two classrooms, and the Life and Ministry Preparation office with Randy and Julie Gariss. The third initiative is the Endowed Scholarship Fund. This endowed fund will distribute scholarships from earnings only, and like planting an apple tree, the “seed dollars” given to this fund will bear “scholarship fruit” for generations. This will provide freedom for our students—graduating with lower student debt allows them to follow God’s call wherever he leads. But this fund will also provide freedom for the college. Approximately $2 million of our $12 million budget comes from federal aid grants our students receive. If those government dollars ever came with strings attached, we want the freedom to say no, and an endowment could help offset the loss of financial aid funds.
Will You Be a Part?
Our initial Kingdom Footprints goal for these three initiatives was $3.5 million. Before the public launch of the campaign, we asked some key supporters for advance gifts and... • The good news: when we publicly announced the campaign last February, we already had commitments of $3.5 million! We are so grateful for God’s graciousness and the generosity of God’s people. The Lord can provide more than we imagined! • The better news: we are setting a new goal of $4 million. We hope to raise this additional $.5 million over the next several months for the endowed scholarship fund. So would you prayerfully consider being a part of Kingdom Footprints? You can help prepare Ozark to prepare kingdom leaders. Please watch a brief campaign video at occ.edu/kfvideo. For more information or for a visit from an OCC representative, please contact our Development Office at development@occ.edu or 417.626.1234 ext. 2031. The sacrificial commitment you or your church make—given over the next three years—will be part of your “kingdom footprint” as you help send workers into the harvest field. TO INSPIRE
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LEAVING KINGDOM FOOTPRINTS Shawn Williams Central Christian Church
Jerry Harris The Crossing QUINCY, IL
Tim Harlow Parkview Christian Church ORLAND PARK, IL
LAS VEGAS, NV
Kyle Idleman Southeast Christian Church LOUISVILLE, KY
Jon Weece Southland Christian Church LEXINGTON, KY
Rusty George Real Life Church VALENCIA, CA
Dudley Rutherford Shepherd Church
PORTER RANCH, CA
Mark Moore Christ’s Church of the Valley
Barry Cameron Crossroads Christian Church GRAND PRAIRIE, TX
Tim Liston New Hope Community Church MANVEL, TX
PEORIA, AZ
“How shall they hear without a preacher?” (Rom 10:15) For 74 years, Ozark has prepared men to preach the Word. Of the 15 largest Christian churches in the U.S., 10 have OCC graduates preaching from their stage. Every week, in churches big and small, Ozark alumni proclaim the life-giving message of Jesus Christ.
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IN EVERY CORNER OF THE WORLD Karolyn Schrage Executive Director Choices Medical Services
Nancy Bacus Director Books & More Library AMMAN, JORDAN
JOPLIN, MO
Aubri Casey
Jen Oakes Outreach Director Mission Church
EASTERN EUROPE
VENTURA, CA
Karen Rees Cross Cultural Discipling Mission
HONG KONG, CHINA
Jenni Snyder Associate Director Rapha House CAMBODIA
Kala Mueller Everyday Church BROOKLYN, NY
Genilyn McCaffrey Professor of Worship Ministry Manhattan Christian College MANHATTAN, KS
Kritsana Udomsrirat Asian Women & Children CHIANG MAI, THAILAND
Abby Armstrong Bible Translator Ukarumpa International School
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Throughout Scripture, God used women as worship leaders (Miriam in Exodus 15), decisionmakers (Deborah in Judges 4), church servants (Phoebe in Romans 16), prophetesses (Philip’s daughters in Acts 21), missionaries (Peter’s wife in 1 Corinthians 9) and teachers (Priscilla in Acts 18). While the Bible reserves the role of elder—including local church “preacher”—for men, the church needs women who are biblically prepared to serve. For 74 years, Ozark has equipped women to advance Christ’s kingdom around the world.
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FROM COAST TO COAST: OCC ALUMNI BRING GOOD NEWS Lance and Tara Schaubert: Loving Neighbors in New York City It’s a long way from Salem, Illinois, to New York City. Lance Schaubert grew up in the small town of Salem in southern Illinois, but after visiting New York as part of Ozark’s church planting classes, he caught a vision for the city.
“God is sending the people of the world into the cities,” says Lance. “Two hundred years ago, 5% of humanity lived in cities.” “Right now it’s 50%, and it’ll be 75% within a decade. God is gathering people within earshot of the gospel, setting the stage for Christian mission’s greatest hour.” So Lance and his wife Tara moved from the small town to the Big Apple. But how to share the gospel? Under the leadership of College Heights Christian Church, Lance and Tara landed on a twofold strategy. The first: connect with artists. As part of Artists in Christian Testimony, Lance is the single most creative person I know. With a novel soon to be published, a book of poems forthcoming and a musical album in the works, Lance understands the language of creatives, and he is a missionary to the artistic community in New York City.
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Matt Proctor
Their second strategy: love their neighbors. They moved into a low-income international neighborhood. “We just want to help meet needs,” says Lance, “and earn people’s trust so we can speak into their lives.” So you might see the Schauberts delivering meals to a new mother. Or hosting a Tuesday afternoon homework club for the immigrant kids in their apartment building. Or throwing a Christmas party for the neighbors from Mexico, Ecuador, Yemen and Turkey. Lance is already talking with Murat, his Muslim neighbor from Turkey, about dreams God has placed in Murat’s heart. Last October, you might’ve seen Lance with a Christian friend serving his neighbors in an unexpected way. He tells the story: “What’s the catch?” she asked. She’s a witch—a real Wiccan witch with a tribal dance studio. “Are you a do-gooder or something?” “Are you asking if I have ulterior motives?” I asked her. “Yes. No one just comes to clean mirrors for me.” “Well, I am a pastor, but I’m serious: I’m just here to help.” “You want money?” she asked. “No, that would break my heart.” “Sure, I’ll take the free love.” We started scrubbing mirrors and floors in the dance studio in between sessions. They showed us all of their belly dancing costumes and then we sipped tea with them in the office. “So why did you do this?” she asked. “What kind of pastor are you?” The other two old Wiccans nodded in agreement. “Look,” I said, “people always say the church is full of hypocrites and that’s true—the church is full of hypocrites because the church is in the world and the world is full of hypocrites.” They nodded. “So I’ve tried to make it my goal to relentlessly pursue a radical campaign against my own hypocrisy. Today, that meant following the words of Jesus to love you guys without expecting anything back. My goal isn’t to see you as projects but humans and friends, to treat you as Jesus treated me.” “What church did you say that was?” the man asked. One act of service, one work of art at a time: the Schauberts are sharing the good news of Christ. Kingdom footprints on the streets of New York City.
Brian and Julie Mavis: Adopting Kids in Colorado
When OCC alum Julie Mavis prayed with her daughters at bedtime, they asked God “to help the orphans.” But soon she began to wonder, “Should we do something to help the orphans ourselves?” At first, Julie and husband Brian sponsored a child in Kenya. But God wanted to take them further. “Julie started saying, ‘I think God wants us to do foster parenting,’” remembers Brian. Brian ministers on staff at Lifebridge Christian Church in Longmont, Colorado. They earned their Colorado certification, and over the next five years, they welcomed eight boys as foster parents.
Their journey still wasn’t done. “There are more than 400,000 children in the U.S. foster care system,” says Brian. “Every year about 40,000 children leave the system at age 18, having never lived in a stable family. But the good news is that more and more Christians are responding to God’s plea to take care of these orphans in their distress as it says in James 1:27.” Julie and Brian, with Lifebridge Christian Church, have been a huge part of that. They met with a staff member from the Boulder County (CO) Human Services and Child Welfare Department, and the woman had a simple but profound challenge for Lifebridge: raise up enough foster and adoptive parents to care for all wards of the state. The Mavises rose to the challenge. Rallying the Lifebridge church and partnering with at least 30 other churches,
they helped reduce the number of children waiting for a “forever family” in Colorado’s child welfare system from 875 kids to 275 kids just six years later. That’s nearly a 70% reduction in waiting children! Their kingdom footprints are all over Colorado. Today Julie serves as executive director of Adopt Colorado Kids, while Brian works to further the adoption movement nationwide as president of Adopt America’s Kids. “It’s exciting to see Christians switching from building orphanages to emptying orphanages,” says Brian. “We want to see the church ‘take up the cause of the fatherless’ (Isaiah 1:17), not out of guilt or duty, but because we have been loved and adopted by God.”
Every year about 40,000 children leave the system at age 18, having never lived in a stable family.
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FROM COAST TO COAST: OCC ALUMNI BRING GOOD NEWS
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Jeff Randleman: Leading a Life-changing Church in Missouri Jeff Randleman keeps it simple. He likes his morning joe: “A balanced diet means a cup of coffee in each hand.” He prefers pencils to computers: “You can print with one end of a pencil and delete with the other.” Give him a journal and his Bible, and Jeff ’s ready to study for his sermon. The lead minister at Cabool Christian Church in Cabool, Missouri, Jeff ’s priorities aren’t too complicated either: love his family, love his church, love his community. Cabool is the place for a simple life—a Dairy Queen, a country station called The Rooster, a school system at the center of community life, and Old Tymes Days on the square every fall. Jeff ’s a small-town Missouri kid himself, so he and his wife Heather (and their seven kids) understand the rhythms. But make no mistake: Jeff is making a difference where God has placed him. While Cabool Christian Church won’t make any megachurch lists, when I visited not long ago, I saw a vibrant congregation: • a youth group packed with teenagers serious about their faith • a mission trip to Haiti to share the gospel in word and deed • an eldership eager to learn how to lead God’s church effectively • outreach events for young families in the community • uplifting worship and strong biblical preaching each week. After a recent sermon on baptism, one fellow told Jeff, “You really shucked the corn today!”
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When the church looked at their economically depressed community, they decided to do something. They bought a house across the street from the church, collected clothes, household goods, dishes, baby items and then opened the “TLC House” to the community to “shop.” Everything is free. Jeff told me about a young expectant mother who needed baby clothes, but couldn’t afford them. “She was able to come, get some nice things for her new baby, and feel welcomed.” Last year alone, the TLC House helped 1,300 different families experience in a tangible way the love of Christ. A simple preacher, a small church . . . a big kingdom footprint.
AROUND THE WORLD: FIVE SERVANTS, ONE MISSION Matt Proctor and Dru Ashwell Jonathan Khopang: Training Leaders in Myanmar
When I left Ozark Christian College, I thought I would never see my friend Jonathan Khopang again. Jonathan and I graduated from OCC together in 1993, and I knew Jonathan was returning to serve the Lord in his own country of Myanmar (also called Burma). Chances were good that our paths might never cross again on this side of eternity. But last year, God brought Jonathan back to Joplin, and what a joy it was to hear about his work! Myanmar is 80% Buddhist, mired in poverty and haunted by a history of ethnic violence. Deep in spiritual darkness, this nation desperately needs biblically grounded leaders to plant churches and preach the gospel. So in 2010, Jonathan helped found Myitkyina Christian Seminary in northern Burma, not far from the border of China. Starting with 12 students, the seminary has now grown to over 40 students. Alongside Dr. Ahdee Wayezi and Reuben Khinpang, Jonathan equips these students through exegetical, apologetic and practical ministry classes. The seminary’s theme verse is 2 Timothy 2:2, “…entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others,” and they are entrusting the gospel to the next generation of kingdom leaders in Myanmar. In fact, God has even opened doors for the seminary to train Christian leaders from neighboring China! Jonathan’s students will go on to build Christ’s church throughout Myanmar and beyond, and as I talked with Jonathan last year here on Ozark’s campus, I was struck by a thought. Though the believers in those congregations on the other side of the world may never know it, their spiritual heritage will trace right back here to Joplin. From southwest Missouri to southeast Asia . . . kingdom footprints.
Though the believers in those congregations on the other side of the world may never know it, their spiritual heritage will trace right back here to Joplin.
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AROUND THE WORLD: FIVE SERVANTS, ONE MISSION
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Luis Antonio and Berenice Escobedo: Praying for Change in Mexico
Last year, I visited my friend Luis Antonio Escobedo and his wife Berenice in Saltillo, Mexico. Luis Antonio was working as an engineer for a firm in Saltillo when he sensed God calling him into ministry. Through a God-arranged set of circumstances, Luis Antonio and Berenice came to OCC, worked hard to learn English, and poured themselves into their studies. After graduation in 2007, Luis Antonio and Berenice returned to lead one of the Christian churches in Saltillo, a city of 700,000 overrun by the drug cartels. Violence was common, and armed military helicopters patrolled the streets. But Luis Antonio took a different strategy. He’s a big guy with a huge smile, warm heart, infectious laugh and bear hugs for everyone. He’s a networker—building relationships, reaching out to others, always talking to someone. (“He wants to save the world with his phone,” says Berenice.) So he started connecting with the other pastors of the Saltillo churches: “Let’s get our people together and pray for our city.” Luis Antonio and Berenice helped organize a day of prayer. The stadium for Saltillo’s professional baseball team holds 17,000, and when the city’s churches gathered, the place was packed. Luis Antonio led these believers in worship and prayer, and the day became an annual event. Over the last six years, the drug cartel activity has sharply diminished in Saltillo. The military helicopters no longer fly overhead, and the decrease in their city’s violence just happens to follow the same timeline as the increase in their city’s prayers. Coincidence? You decide, but I can’t help but think of James 5:16, “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” Luis Antonio and Berenice’s kingdom footprints trace from Joplin to Saltillo, but it’s their kingdom “kneeprints” that have made all the difference.
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Errol and Carmen Bolt: Leaving a Legacy in Jamaica
Errol and Carmen Bolt both grew up in “the ghetto” of Kingston, the capital and largest city of Jamaica. Errol loved Carmen long before she knew he existed. He tried to catch her eye, but she wasn’t interested. He went out of his way to carry her books or help her off the bus. Finally, she saw something special in him and invited him to the Penwood Church of Christ. His long relationship with this church began by “chasing a girl.” The Bolts were married in 1976 and were together for six weeks before the Lord took them in two different directions. Carmen went to nursing school in England, and Errol moved to OCC in Joplin. They were apart for two years. In 1978, after Carmen completed her training, she was hired at Freeman Hospital in Joplin for the remainder of Errol’s time at Ozark. Errol graduated in May 1983, and they moved back to Jamaica that summer. For over three decades, the Kingston community has been blessed by the steadfast service of this amazing Ozark couple. The spiritual influence that Errol and Carmen have had there is remarkable, especially in helping marriages. They model and teach a God-honoring, Bible-based marriage that is influencing many lives. The Bolts bolster their ministry with prayer. In a poverty-stricken country, a couple that models complete dependence on God is a shining light of hope. From Jamaica to Joplin and back again, the Bolts are leaving a lasting legacy of kingdom footprints.
Jensen Smith IN LOVING MEMORY OF
On March 29, tragedy hit our campus when one of our students, 19-year-old Jensen Smith, passed away from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. A freshman from Carl Junction, Missouri, Jensen played for our men’s basketball team and loved being a student at Ozark. He was a young man with a genuine faith, a joyful heart and a quick smile, and he will be deeply missed. “Jensen had a very good handle on balancing athletics and ministry,” wrote Athletic Director and Men’s Basketball Coach Chris Lahm. “Though he was probably in the gym most every day during the season, he was also looking for ways to minister to others through athletics. Many times, Jensen invited friends to come to the gym and play ball. He made sure they had enough guys to play five-on-five, but he also used it to build relationships and introduce non-Christian people to Jesus. Though he was small in stature, he had a heart the size of Dwyane Wade.” The week of Jensen’s death, President Matt Proctor led the OCC family in a time of remembrance and prayer for Jensen’s family. We ask that you, too, as members of the Ozark family around the world, continue to lift the Smiths—dad Rick, mom Stacey, and sister Kalli—before the throne of grace. Pray also for the students grieving his death: his teammates, life group, and many friends on campus and beyond. Psalm 34:18 promises that “the Lord is near to the brokenhearted,” so ask God to make his presence known to these precious people as they walk through the valley of the shadow of death. Pray that they will sense God’s strength, comfort, love and peace. In an email to students, President Proctor wrote, “We want you to know that, while we grieve, we do not grieve as those who have no hope (1 Thess 4:13). It is certainly right and healthy for us to grieve. Death is not our friend, and there is no shame or lack of faith in crying tears of sorrow at times like this. Even Jesus wept at the grave of his friend Lazarus. But the good news of the gospel is that, in Jesus Christ, we have a firm and wondrous hope. The promise of the resurrection is this: a day is coming when we shall see our brother Jensen in a place where there is no more death or mourning or crying or pain, a place where God makes all things new. That is the hope we hold on to, and the gospel we are preparing men and women to proclaim.”
CAMPUS NEWS
Congratulations, Class of 2016!
Last May, Ozark celebrated 138 graduates entering the harvest field. Mark Christian, senior minister at Christ’s Church of Oronogo, Missouri, spoke at the Baccalaureate service on May 20, and Commencement was held the following morning. Honored grads for the Class of 2016 were John Riley Weaver, valedictorian; Justin Grady O’Dell, salutatorian; and Drake Tyler Holderman, class orator. The Class of 2016 also included five graduates from the Online Learning program—OCC’s first-ever grads in this area.
Matthew McBirth Hired in Ozark’s New Diversity Department
This spring, OCC welcomed Matthew McBirth as our new Associate Director of Diversity. Originally from Jeffersonville, Indiana, Matthew came to Ozark from Southeast Christian Church and has been serving in the youth ministry at Hope City Church in Joplin with his wife, Allison. The Dream of Destiny Diversity Department is itself a new addition at Ozark. We’re grateful for Dudley Rutherford and Shepherd Church in Porter Ranch, California, whose generous donation will underwrite the department for its first two years. This Diversity Department will help recruit and retain a diverse student body, faculty and staff, build stronger connections with our minority alumni, and develop seminars, courses and other training opportunities to cultivate a healthy, biblical, multiethnic, multicultural campus. Travis Hurley will oversee the new department as Vice President of Development and Diversity.
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Lydia Proctor Named Next Gen Finalist
Congratulations to OCC sophomore Lydia Proctor, who was recently named as a finalist for this year’s Next Gen Preacher Search. In this joint effort between Pepperdine University’s Youth Leadership Initiative and the North American Christian Convention, young people with an interest in teaching and preaching submit five-minute videos for review and critique by Pepperdine University’s Jeff Walling and a panel of preachers. After a nationwide search, Lydia was selected as one of four finalists who will present their lessons to over 25,000 Christians at gatherings across the country, including the 2016 North American Christian Convention, the Pepperdine Bible Lectures and the Winterfest conferences in Tennessee and Texas. “This has already been an incredible experience,” Lydia says, “and I am looking forward to everything else I’ll learn from my fellow finalists and our coaches.”
CAMPUS NEWS Two Women’s Coaches Hired
occ.edu/athletics
New Role for Dr. Teresa Welch
Dr. Teresa Welch was recently named Vice President of Institutional Research and Effectiveness at OCC. Teresa will lead our efforts to collect, interpret and use institutional data for more effective planning, assessment and decisionmaking. She will also serve as our accreditation liaison to both the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE). President Matt Proctor writes, “Teresa’s organizational ability, warm people skills and previous experience as Director of Institutional Research at Emmanuel Christian Seminary make her a wonderful fit for this role.”
Head Volleyball Coach Tony Allmoslecher recently resigned his position at OCC to accept a similar position at Carthage High School in Carthage, Missouri. During his eight years at Ozark, Tony led seven of his teams to the NCCAA National Tournament, and his teams have also won two ACCA national titles. As Tony leaves, we welcome Breann Stephens to take his place. Breann is a former volleyball player at Ozark and was an All-American during that time. Most recently, she served on staff at Racine Christian Church and as an assistant at Seneca High School in Seneca, Missouri. Additionally, after the recent resignation of Women’s Basketball Coach Tab Hall, OCC hired Camila Lacerda to lead the Lady Ambassadors in the 2016-2017 season. We’re grateful for Tab’s leadership and example to her players, and we look forward to Camila continuing the tradition of excellence.
Worship Arts Department Restructures
Ozark’s Matt Stafford has been named the new Director of Worship Arts (formerly, the Music Department). Under his leadership, the department will continue to teach music— theory, piano, guitar, voice and more—to equip our students to lead worship. Professor Matthew Holt, with a Master of Music Education and teaching experience at both Webb City High School and Missouri Southern State University, will take an expanded adjunct role. We’re also excited to welcome Isaac Schade to OCC as our new director of Frontline. Isaac previously served as worship minister at Christ’s Church of Oronogo. He and his wife, Maggie, have one son and are in the process of adopting a second. Additionally, Scott and Karla Handley have resigned their positions at Ozark. For 15 years, Scott has led our Music Department with humility and excellence, while Karla has poured herself into her English Grammar and piano students. Mary Green will also no longer serve as Drama and Technical Coordinator. For over 20 years, Mary has served at OCC with her whole heart. Scott, Karla and Mary have given themselves sacrificially to our mission of training men and women for Christian service, and thousands have been blessed because of their work. As they leave, Tammy Nelson will direct OCC’s choir this fall, and Andrea Huckabay will join the Worship Arts Department staff as piano instructor.
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CAMPUS NEWS
Idleman Ministry Center Under Construction
Construction is underway on our newest campus building, the Idleman Ministry Center, located between the Mabee Student Center and the Seth Wilson Library. As one of the three initiatives in our Kingdom Footprints campaign, the center will house the Placement, Internship and Christian Service offices as well as the Life and Ministry Preparation office. It will serve as a “ministry mall” where students can connect to ministry opportunities and receive ministry mentoring. Approximately 4,200 square feet, the center will be named in honor of OCC’s former president, Ken Idleman, and his wife, Kaylene.
Welcome, Sergio and Jackie Rizo Missouri Governor Jay Nixon at OCC
May 22 marked the fifth anniversary of the Joplin tornado, and in preparation, Governor Jay Nixon met with Randy Gariss, Fr. Justin Monaghan (rector at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Joplin) and President Matt Proctor to discuss Joplin’s recovery and commemoration. We’re thankful for these leaders who have helped our community remember and rebuild with the Lord’s help over the last five years.
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Recently, Sergio Rizo was hired as OCC’s Associate Director of Development. Sergio and his wife, Jackie, are both OCC graduates, and Sergio also has an MBA from Lipscomb University. The Rizos have previously served with Niños de Mexico and a church plant in Nashville, Tennessee. Most recently, Sergio served in the Office of Investments at Vanderbilt University in Nashville.
CAMPUS NEWS Baylee Hilton MCCC Honorable Mention All-Conference
occ.edu/athletics
Well Done, Ambassadors!
Congratulations to our men’s and women’s basketball teams for another great season. Several players received individual honors from the Midwest Christian College Conference (MCCC), the Association of Christian College Athletics (ACCA) and the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA). Great job, Ambassadors!
In addition, at OCC’s Athletics Banquet last May, several players were honored for their achievements in our varsity sports during the 2015-2016 school year. Congratulations on a job well done! MEN’S SOCCER Offensive Player of the Year: Nick Cannon Defensive Player of the Year: Sully Smith Hustle Award: Tyler Endicott Encouragement Award: Kelvin Maina MVP: Taylor Hunt Spiritual Leadership: Taylor Hunt WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL Offensive Player of the Year: Rickie Lea Seaton Defensive Player of the Year: Tessa Lucas Most Inspirational: Jennie Tamerius Most Improved: Susie Dowden Co-MVP: Rickie Lea Seaton and Tessa Lucas Coach’s Award: Emilee Mitchell and Whitney Matlack CROSS COUNTRY Male Most Valuable Runner: Eddie Hardimon Female Most Valuable Runner: Jessica Williams Most Improved: Dakotah Young Spiritual Leadership: Eddie Hardimon WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Co-MVP: Whitney Matlack and Chelsea Woodring Coach’s Award: Kendall Shultz Hustle Award: Baylee Hilton Defensive Player of the Year: Aspyn Schiltz MEN’S BASKETBALL Offensive Player of the Year: Evan Hand Newcomer of the Year: Aaron Nelson Most Improved: Brandon Williams Coach’s Award: Jarred Witt MVP: Dawson Allmoslecher Spiritual Leadership: Austin Turner
Whitney Matlack MCCC First Team All-Conference; ACCA Second Team AllAmerican; NCCAA Second Team All-Region
Chelsea Woodring MCCC Conference MVP; ACCA First Team AllAmerican; NCCAA First Team All-Region
Dawson Allmoslecher MCCC Second Team All-Conference; ACCA Honorable Mention; NCCAA Second Team All-Region
Evan Hand MCCC First Team All-Conference; ACCA First Team All-American; NCCAA First Team All-Region
Austin Turner MCCC Honorable Mention All-Conference; NCCAA Second Team All-Region
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REFLECTING GOD’S HEART In February, Ozark hosted Dream of Destiny’s Race & Restoration Summit, which explored ways the church can heal racial divides. Matt Mueller (Brooklyn, NY) moderated a panel of multiethnic church planters: Matt McGue (Jackson, MS), Jordan Rice (Harlem, NY), Derrick Puckett (Chicago, IL), and Watson Jones III (Philadelphia, PA).
NEW TESTAMENT WORDS
BASILEIA
Gyges was in a bind. He was the favorite spearman of the king, and the king had foolishly wanted to show off to Gyges how beautiful the queen was. (See a parallel in Esther 1:11—were all kings this dumb?) So the king shamed his wife by exposing her beautiful body to Gyges. And now the queen was going to get her revenge. She summoned Gyges and gave him two options: either kill the conniving king or be killed himself. And, if he would kill the king he would get to have both the queen and the kingship. Being a practical man, he killed the king. The Greek word for “kingship” in this story was basileia (bah suh LAY ah). The word meant something like “kingness, the state of being king” and made its very first appearance in the Greek language in this story told by Herodotus (1, 11). It was only later that the word basileia took on the additional meaning of “kingdom,” the people and territory ruled by the king.
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When the word “kingdom” appears in the Bible, we should always try to retain something of both original ideas: kingship (as rule) and kingdom (as realm). For instance, what did Jesus mean in Mark 1:15 when he began his ministry by proclaiming, “The time has come—the basileia of God is near”? Did he have a territorial realm in mind? Or a group of people who made up the population of the kingdom? Perhaps it was something more fundamental— calling people to submit to the rule of the King. Kingship, like lordship, focuses more on the authority and position of the King, than on the people or territory over which he rules. To see the church as the kingdom, the basileia, of God puts too much emphasis on the people, as if we are his kingdom. The primary emphasis should be on God as King. Thus, instead of inviting people to join the church and become part of the kingdom, we should first challenge them to place themselves under the kingship of God. Only then can they pray with real meaning, “Thy basileia come, thy will be done.”
Kenny Boles taught Greek and New Testament at OCC for more than 40 years.
MEET YOUR OCC FAMILY Getting to know the people of Ozark Christian College Mark’s “life verse” is Acts 20:24, and he also likes the Parable of the Vineyard Workers in Matthew 20. His favorite Bible text, though, is the one he’s preaching or teaching on any given day.
“We’re just part of the much greater role that Ozark has played in thousands of lives at our spiritual West Point, preparing leaders for the Lord’s army all over the world.”
Mark loves teaching and preaching, reading, spending time with his kids and grandkids, growing a vegetable garden, traveling and “anything with Carla.”
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Mark enjoys sports— especially football, as well as racquetball, jogging, biking and swimming.
MARK SCOTT: FOR THE LORD'S CHURCH He was born in Kansas and raised in Iowa. He has preached in Illinois and Colorado. And, especially in Missouri, at 1111 North Main in Joplin, he’s a cherished and admired leader. Dr. Mark Scott first came to Ozark as a student in 1971. He met Carla Parker, who often spent time in the chapel, because she was interested in music. Mark often spent time there, too, because he was interested in Carla. The Scotts married in 1972 and have since had four children and twelve grandchildren. After graduating in 1976, Mark returned to Ozark in 1983 to teach Preaching and New Testament and to fill the slot vacated by Don DeWelt. The five years he intended to stay turned into twenty-eight. Mark served as OCC’s Academic Dean from 1998-2011, and after a three-year preaching ministry in Colorado, he returned to Ozark in 2014 as Director of the Preaching Department and Professor of New Testament and Preaching. For decades, Mark and Carla have been sold on the mission of Ozark and on the principle of multiplication— of raising up more people to grow the Body of Christ. “We just love college students and the Lord’s church,” Mark says. “It’s hard to explain our lives without the church.” 19
COMING SOON Upcoming events at OCC
FRONTLINE SUMMER TOUR AND ALBUM
Frontline’s 2016 summer tour is underway, running through the end of July. In addition to serving at five weeks of church camp, the team will lead worship each weekend at various churches. Frontline’s concert program includes worship, teaching and visual media. To host Frontline during the 2016-2017 school year, contact frontline@occ.edu. Frontline’s newest album, “Who You Are,” is available for purchase at occ.edu/frontline.
JULY 12-15: JOIN US AT THE NACC!
Don’t miss the 2016 North American Christian Convention, “A Better Story,” held this summer in Anaheim, California. Under the leadership of NACC President Dave Stone, this year’s convention includes OCC grads Kyle Idleman and Dudley Rutherford, dynamic worship leaders, workshops, a full teen convention, children’s programming and a large exhibit hall. Visit Ozark at Booth #517, and join us for the OCC Alumni and Friends Reception in the Hilton Anaheim Pacific Ballroom A on Wednesday, July 13, at 9:00 p.m. occ.edu/nacc
AUGUST 23: VOLUNTEER EXPO
The Community Volunteer Expo welcomes exhibitors from churches, ministries and nonprofits in Joplin and the surrounding area. Led by Ozark’s Ministry Center, the Expo presents OCC students with volunteer opportunities, internships and paid positions. To be involved in future Expos or for more Christian service opportunities, contact the Ministry Center at ministry.center@occ.edu or 417.626.1234 ext. 2019. occ.edu/expo
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SEPTEMBER 8-9: GETAWAY
Each fall, OCC hosts hundreds of sixth through eighth graders as they experience campus and encounter God. This September, students will be challenged by speaker Jeff Walling (Pepperdine University) and worship leader Elijah Dally and Axios (Christ’s Church of Oronogo). occ.edu/getaway
COMING SOON Upcoming events at OCC
SEPTEMBER 12: FAITH FORUM
Visit campus this fall! Every high school junior, senior and transfer student who takes a Tuesday Tour will receive a $500 OCC scholarship. occ.edu/tuesdaytour
Dates: August 30 September 6 September 13 September 20 October 4 October 11 October 25 November 1 November 8
Faith Forum is an annual on-campus lectureship that hosts leading thinkers in theology, philosophy and apologetics. This year, we welcome editor-in-chief of WORLD magazine, Marvin Olasky. Watch occ.edu for session topics and times.
OCTOBER 17: FALL CELEBRATION DAY
Calling all adults 55+! Join us for a great day of encouragement and fellowship, as OCC’s Dr. Gary Zustiak and others lead us in “Joy, Joy, Joy!” occ.edu/fcd
NOVEMBER 4-5: THE EVENT
We’re looking forward to OCC’s fall conference for high schoolers, with main speaker Mark Christian (Christ’s Church of Oronogo) and worship with Compass Student Worship Band (Compass Christian Church, Grapevine, Texas). Don’t miss it! occ.edu/theevent
NOVEMBER 17-20: MOBILIZE
Join us in Lexington, Kentucky, for the International Conference on Missions. Under the direction of 2016 conference president and OCC alum Mike Schrage, this year’s theme, “MOBILIZE: Disciples Making Disciples,” recalls Christ’s commission to “go and tell.” Visit OCC at Booth #1222, and watch occ.edu/icom for details on our alumni reception.
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HERE’S AN IDEA Practical tips for your life and ministry Jim Dalrymple serves as Vice President of College Relations and a professor of New Testament and Church Leadership at OCC.
NEXTLEVEL: A NEW RESOURCE FROM OCC Jim Dalrymple
For nearly 75 years, Ozark Christian College has equipped leaders for ministry. Our new initiative, NextLevel, is another expression of our partnership with churches and individuals.Through the free video resources of NextLevel Online, we hope to further our mission of training up men and women for Christian service.
FIVE WAYS TO UTILIZE NEXTLEVEL ONLINE
Adult Ministries: Use these 20- to 25-minute videos in a Bible study setting. Also included on our website are free PDF handouts and discussion questions.
Student Ministries: Several NextLevel resources are fitting for high school students, and are taught by Ozark professors they’ll recognize from conferences and camps.
Leadership Development: Many churches use these 20- to 25-minute sessions in their discipleship strategy for developing leaders.
Small Group Curriculum: Curriculum can be expensive and difficult to find. We’ve designed this as a free, high-quality resource that you can recommend for your groups.
Personal Growth: NextLevel is a portable resource to take with you on the road. Use these resources in your own walk as a means of personal growth.
Find NextLevel resources at occ.edu/nextlevel.
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Pre-packaged seminar led by Ozark faculty held at your church
Free video resources for you and your church
1) BIBLICAL STUDY/TRAINING • Shane Wood, Ph.D.
• Dr. Mark Scott
• Michael DeFazio
• Dr. Teresa Welch
• Request specific content or speaker
2) ELDERSHIP/LEADERSHIP TRAINING • Dr. Mark Scott
• Peter Buckland
• Randy Gariss
• Jim Dalrymple
3) CONTEMPORARY ISSUES • Chad Ragsdale
DR. MARK SCOTT PARABLES 10 Sessions
MICHAEL DeFAZIO HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE 10 Sessions
• Doug Aldridge
• Dr. Gary Zustiak
4) CHRISTIAN FORMATION/ CHRISTIAN EDUCATION • Doug Welch
• Randy Gariss
• Dr. Teresa Welch
5) FAMILY/PARENTING TRAINING • Randy and Julie Gariss
CHAD RAGSDALE APOLOGETICS 8 Sessions
KENNY BOLES THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 10 Sessions
• Dr. Gary Zustiak
• Peter Buckland
SHANE WOOD, PH.D. REVELATION
Seminar costs include travel, housing and honorarium. Our NextLevel team will help you facilitate and promote the event. We will also provide workbooks and other free resources.
Find more information at occ.edu/nextlevel. Sponsored by
10 Sessions
DR. CHRIS DeWELT THE GLOBAL MISSION OF THE CHURCH 10 Sessions
IN DEVELOPMENT
The Book of Acts, Mark E. Moore, Ph.D. | Joseph, Julie Gariss | Leadership Training, Randy Gariss | 2 Timothy, Matt Proctor | Romans, Michael DeFazio | Healthy Families, Randy Gariss | Teacher Training, Dr. Teresa Welch
Download or view NextLevel resources at TO CONNECT 25 occ.edu/nextlevel.
YOUR PARTNERSHIP Helpful tools for Christian stewardship
LIQUIDITY EVENTS: GOOD AND BAD
TRIBUTE GIFTS
David Duncan
In Loving Memory:
We live on Spring River, and just after last Christmas, David Duncan serves as OCC’s following several days of Planned Giving Specialist. continuous rain, we experienced a major liquidity event. It was not one of the good kind. In fact, a favorite old sycamore tree and some 20 feet of our riverbank were washed away toward Grand Lake. The flood was even more harmful for our neighbors, as it overwhelmed their homes and farms. Business owners and investors also experience liquidity events. For them, however, it can actually be a very good thing. Liquidity events are often long-awaited, frequently-hoped-for opportunities to turn years of toil and effort into cash. However, even good liquidity events can come with major side effects in the form of massive taxation. Since the growth in the value of a business or investment is taxable as a capital gain, sellers can see as much as 33% of the sale value “washed away” in state and federal taxes. But like many forms of taxation, Capital Gains Tax is an optional tax! Your tax options include paying it, postponing it or avoiding it. If you anticipate a liquidity event headed your way, before you sign an agreement for sale, check with your professional advisers about potential tax implications. Or, I’d love to have a conversation with you, to explore how charitable tools can prevent your sale proceeds from washing away. With timely planning, you may be able to keep more of the cash for yourself, your family and your favorite ministries. I look forward to talking with you! occ.edu/legacy Tribute Gift Form In Loving Memory Of…
PLEASE PRINT
In Honor Of… Name
Given By:
Enclosed is my gift of:
Name Address City/State/Zip
Please send acknowledgement to: Name Address City/State/Zip Use separate paper for additional names.
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DECEMBER 16, 2015-MAY 26, 2016 Gary Birney Ruth Bunton Clarence & Etta Cain Daphne Willow Coldagelli M/M Aaron R. Collett Harold Compton Jerry Compton Loy Conner Margaret Conover Wilbur & Margaret Conover Robert & Doralee Cross Ardis Curd John Wesley Doolen Carlos and Nelda Elmore Harold Francis Vincent Graham Robert Halteman Willis Harrison Earl & Barbara Hinkle Eileen Johnson Kent Johnson Eldon King Judy Lanham Helen Lyle Connie Mieir Floyd K. Miller Larry Morecraft Luella Murphy Old Acquaintances Ruth Parkes Adam Ransom Harvey Richardson Tom Ross W. Keith Shrum Gwen Stone Charles E. Thomas Daniel A. Thompson Reba Thompson Henry Ray & Delores A. Ward LaVern & Arline Wegener Judy Wilson Charles & Dorothy Wittenborn
M/M Dean L. Franzen M/M Randy L. O'Neal M/M Robert Reed M/M Marc Willoughby M/M Rodney C. Willoughby M/M Michael Bunton M/M Matthew Proctor Mr. Allen E. Cain Lynn C. Cain Lucille Vest Mr. Glenn E. Boyes M/M Lyle Horner M/M Donald R. Pryor Mary Shew Mrs. Faye Compton Mrs. Faye Compton M/M C. Robert Hine Dr. & Mrs. Garland Bare College Heights Christian Church (Joplin, MO) M/M Steve F. Jennings M/M Clifford Wert M/M T. Meredith Williams M/M Randy L. Wilson M/M Larry Catron Mrs. Gaila M. Cross Beach M/M Stuart T. Tyler M/M Charles D. Jordan M/M Richard H. Steckler Mrs. Diana Jones Mrs. Alice Graham Bessie L. Halteman M/M Michael D. Lee M/M C. Robert Hine Dr. Patrick Johnson M/M Robert McClung Dr. Patrick Johnson M/M Robert McClung M/M Dan Harlow Mr. D. Mark Lanham Marta Beck Mr. William H. Mieir M/M Mark W. Miller Mrs. Kathryn Morecraft Mr. Lester L. Murphy Mr. Donald G. Harris Ann Cotton M/M James B. Ransom Mrs. Ethel Richardson Mrs. Connie Ross Mrs. Jeana D. Hayes Dr. & Mrs. Garland Bare Dr. & Mrs. Wayne B. Bigelow Dr. & Mrs. Brian C. High M/M Jack D. Jessup M/M George Roane Mr. Sam E. Stone Mrs. Mary K. Thomas M/M Charles W. Beard M/M John M. Hunter Dr. Patrick Johnson The Ward Family Mr. Neal Wegener M/M Ron L. Culp M/M David Wittenborn Continued on page 28
HEARD IN CHAPEL Our college family continues to be challenged by outstanding messages in Chapel each Tuesday. Listen to the messages at occ.edu/chapel, or watch the messages on Ozark’s YouTube channel. Here’s a taste of what we’ve heard recently.
“
Where Christ called us to multiply, we settled for addition, and the costs of that choice have been devastating.
”
- Aaron*, 03.08.16 Imago Dei: Made to Multiply | occ.edu/chapel
“
Go write a poem or a story or draw a picture or compose some music or mold some clay. Create something—something beautiful. Create something because you are created in the image of God.
”
- Dr. Tom Lawson, 03.15.16 Imago Dei: Made to Create | occ.edu/chapel
“
For the Christian, hope is not a mood. It is a doctrine. For the Christian, hope is not an emotion. Hope is a birthright.
”
- Chad Ragsdale, 03.31.16
In Dangerous Days: Rejoice in Hope | occ.edu/chapel *Name and picture withheld for safety.
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ALUMNI NEWS
Final Amount Given by OCC Alumni to Year 2 of Classroom Makeover:
108,787.34
$
P RA I S E TH E LO RD!
Thank you, Ozark alumni! TRIBUTE GIFTS DECEMBER 16, 2015-MAY 26, 2016
GOT NEWS?
In Honor Of:
We’d love to hear it! If you’ve taken a new job, changed addresses or ministry positions, had a wedding or a baby—or anything else—we want to know! Contact the Alumni Office at alumni@occ.edu) or 417.626.1234 ext. 2100, and keep up-to-date on alumni news at occ.edu/alumni.
Continued from page 26
Carol Vernon Bryant Anne Dorris Wilbur Fields Greg Hafer Bryan Hampton family Mike & Julia Harney Mike & Miriam Johnson Patti Briggs McDonnell Clair LaVern Newman Jared & Laura Parker Linda Thurmond
M/M C. Robert Hine Tyler Christian Church (Tyler, TX) M/M C. Robert Hine M/M Kent Harris M/M Donald L. Hampton West Side Christian Church (Springfield, IL) M/M Mervyn E. Moberly M/M C. Robert Hine M/M Harvey J. Newman M/M Ben C. Killion M/M C. Robert Hine
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ALUMNI NEWS
2016 Seth Wilson Outstanding Alumnus Awards SETH WILSON OUTSTANDING ALUMNUS AWARD presented to
Errol and Carmen Bolt
in recognition of over thirty years of exemplary service in church ministry and Christian counseling in Kingston, Jamaica. Your love and compassion for the Jamaican people and your sacrificial service in His kingdom are highly commended. The Ozark Christian College Alumni Association Joplin, Missouri See the Bolts’ story on page 12. SETH WILSON OUTSTANDING ALUMNUS AWARD presented to
Greg and Deb Hafer
in recognition of over forty years of exemplary service in church ministry, teaching and leading at Ozark Christian College and encouraging missionaries worldwide. Your love and care for college students and missionaries and your sacrificial service in His kingdom are highly commended. The Ozark Christian College Alumni Association Joplin, Missouri
Greg Hafer graduated from Ozark in 1974 and preached for two decades in the local church, culminating with eight years at First Christian Church in Washington, Missouri. Greg began serving at OCC in 1990 and recently completed his 26th year. In addition to his exceptional teaching, Greg has served as Dean of Men, Director of Student Development, acting President for a year, Vice President, and Executive Vice President. Deb has worked at Ozark as well, in a variety of roles. She founded Global REST in 2006 and has just started her tenth year leading this ministry. Greg and Deb both have a heart for the nations, and they have traveled together all over the world, encouraging and pouring into many missionaries. OCC President Matt Proctor writes, “Both Greg and Deb think of others before themselves and in all their ministries have personified the college’s motto, ‘not to be served but to serve.’ Well done, good and faithful servants.” TO CONNECT
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ALUMNI NEWS: CONGRATULATIONS Danny and Tracy Theissen (04) Breit on the arrival of their second son, Connor James, on June 20, 2015. Tracy will celebrate ten years of student ministry with the Northeast CC in Rockford, IL, in May. Kevin (09) and Lauren Bryant on the birth of Elijah Samuel on May 14. Kevin serves with Kingsway CC in Mt. Vernon, MO. Slade and Lynnette McClenahan (03) Bumgardner on the arrival of Ila Nicole on April 12 in Miles City, MT. Josh (09) and Mikala Casey on the birth of Elanor Grace on December 28 in Warrensburg, MO, where Josh serves as director of worship and creative arts at the University of Central Missouri campus house. Cory (14) and Lindsey DeJoseph (14) Chatham on the birth of Miles Oliver on January 31 in Prescott, AZ. Luke (07) and Jenny Cole on the arrival of Eli Samuel on March 17 in Joplin. Luke ministers with the Blendville CC. Tom and Kathy Neise (attended) Diehl on the birth of Corinne Marianne on July 19, 2015, in Edgerton, WI. Skyler (15) and Stephanie Moyers (15) Elmer on the arrival of their daughter, Augustine Gene, on March 7 in Grover Beach, CA. Eric (05) and Torrie (current faculty) Epperson on the birth of Wren Victoria on February 3 in Joplin. Eric serves as program director of Christ In Youth’s Move, and Torrie teaches part time at Ozark. Ethan (13) and Audrey Dooley (13) Greer on the arrival of Jonathan James on March 28 in Kobe, Japan, where they serve as church planters with Orchard Group.
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Robert (12) and Emma Blackwell (14) Halbach on the birth of Ruby Leigh on April 4. The Halbachs serve with Discovery Ministries in Eminence, MO. Jonathan (12) and Whitney Woodall (15) Hendrix on the arrival of Levi Josiah on July 14 in Jackson, MO. Jared (09) and Stephanie Long (09) Henke on the birth of Macy Josephine on January 21 in Nagoya, Japan, where they serve as church planters. Jordan (13) and Mya Klundt (13) Hull on the birth of Kynna Nicole on May 2. Jordan serves with Olathe CC in Olathe, KS, and Mya is a Mary Kay consultant.
Matthew (attended) and Rittney Blum (11) Greer welcomed Andre David on January 27 to their family in Topeka, KS. He joined big brother Matthew Gus, born April 23, 2014.
Matt (07) and Kirsten Judah on the arrival of Ari Maren on March 24 in Charleston, SC. Darin (00) and Rachel Adams (01) Kleeman on the birth of Makario Isaac in January. They serve with the Beechwold CC in Columbus, OH. Kenan (13) and Amanda Piercy (15) Klein on the arrival of Kendra Nicole on May 12 in Joplin. Kenan serves as youth and worship pastor with the CC of Carl Junction, MO. Nathan (08) and Katie Martin on the arrival of Reese Maloah on February 1 in Macon, MO.
Jeremy and Kayla Thompson (06) Stanley on the arrival of Derek Lee on June 5, 2015, in Bartlesville, OK.
Brian and Sarah Stansberry (attended) Obermann on the birth of their third son, Cameron Jace, on March 3 in Joplin. Grant (attended) and Dawn Ziebart (attended) Old on the birth of Clara June on February 19 in Joplin. Daniel (11) and Kat Rankin on the arrival of Fletcher William on April 5 in Louisville, KY. Daniel serves as youth pastor with the Northeast CC. Matt (attended) and Ashley Shead on the arrival of Nora Jean on February 23 in Joplin.
Michael (14) and Ayla Satoris (15) Thomas on the arrival of James Robert on December 11 in Joplin.
ALUMNI NEWS CONGRATULATIONS CONTINUED Jonathan and Iris Bridgman (attended) Slay on the arrival of Parker Jonathan on March 30 in Broken Arrow, OK. Silas (09) and Lindsey Parks (09) Steele on the birth of Telic Eugene on November 23 in New London, IA. Tom (12) and Heather Washburn (attended) Tatterfield on the birth of Augustine John on January 31 in Johnson City, TN.
Aaron and Melinda Perry (12) Vaughn on the birth of Evan Lee on February 5 in Fort Thompson, SD.
OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY After an extended battle with a lung disease, T.C. Andrews (88/former staff ) passed away on January 14 at his home in Jasper, MO. Continue to lift up his family in this difficult season.
Eldon King (54) passed away on April 10 as a result of injuries suffered in a fall at his home in Gilbert, AR. Continue to remember his family after losing Eldon so suddenly.
Karen Ann Gragg Bittman (attended-M) passed away on January 8 at her home in Shattuck, OK. Pray for her family as they adjust to life without Karen.
Lee Paul Manuel (attended) suffered a fatal heart attack on December 20 in Joplin. Please lift up his family in prayer as they deal with his sudden passing.
Gwen Butts (attended) of Bartlesville, OK, passed away on February 9 at the age of 98. Continue to keep her family in your prayers as they mourn her loss.
Larry Morecraft (75) passed away on March 14 at his home in West Union, IL. Please remember his family as they mourn his passing.
Roberta Barr Carman (56-M) passed away suddenly on February 2 in Lubbock, TX. Keep her family in prayer as they mourn the loss of Roberta.
Following a battle with cancer, David Morton (74) passed away on December 5 in Omaha, NE, where he had worked for the USPS for 31 years. Please keep his family in your prayers.
John Doolen (attended) passed away in Alpharetta, GA, on January 13. Remember his family as they adjust to life without John. Continue to remember the family of Dorothy Hilton Hofmann (attended) of Webb City, MO, who lost a courageous battle with cancer on February 13. Carroll Hunnicutt (attended) passed away on February 12 in Mount Pleasant, IA. Pray for his family as they adjust to life without Carroll.
Jeff and Stephanie Thomure (attended) Wolfbrandt on the birth of Abigail Nicole on January 21 in Belleville, IL.
Larry Junkins (attended-M) passed away in Burns, TN, on March 22. Please keep his family in your prayers as they mourn his passing.
Pamela Jones Stammer (attended) passed away at her home in Joplin on March 9. Continue to remember her family as they mourn her sudden passing. Pat Anderson Vernon (attended) passed away on January 20 following many years of ill health. Please pray for her family as they mourn her passing. Judy Cannon Wilson (64) passed away on January 20 in Stilwell, OK, following a battle with cancer. Please keep her family in your prayers as they mourn her loss.
CLASS NOTES
1950s
1960s
Jim (58) and Marge Goodman (74) Taylor have closed a part-time senior adult ministry with Fairview CC in Carthage, MO. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on May 4.
Paul and Katherine Wood (65) Gray of Neosho, MO, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on December 27.
Bill (67) and Jan Cannon (67) Worthington of Joplin have both retired—Bill from over 50 years of preaching and Jan from over 19 years with Spring River Christian Village as director of volunteer services. TO CONNECT
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ALUMNI NEWS: CLASS NOTES The Class of 1966 celebrated their 50-year reunion at the Preaching-Teaching Convention last February.
1960s
CONTINUED
Paul (69/former staff) and Marilyn (attended/former staff) Smith celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on January 22. The Smiths live in Webb City, MO.
1970s
1980s
Sharon Oehler (72) Hazard recently retired after 20 years of service to children with special needs at the Northwest Regional Educational Services District.
John Spurgeon (80) and Mary Ann McMahan were married on January 2 and are making their home in Brownstown, IN.
Congratulations to Ed (72) and Helen (attended/ former staff) Hahn of Joplin, who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on April 18. Dr. Lynette Olson (72) was recently named one of eleven nationally recognized “2016 Icons of Education” for her work in higher education. She serves as provost at Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, KS. Marj Boudreaux (74/former faculty) was featured in Joplin Magazine as a Pathfinder 2016 in the Joplin area and has been director of the Joplin NALA program for over 22 years. Barry Hazard (74) was recently recognized for 20 years with Lutheran Community Services Northwest of Washington, Oregon and Idaho—the past 15 years as chief development officer.
Bill (82/former staff) and Tiny (attended/former staff) Lange celebrated 55 years of marriage on February 12, and Bill has been the preaching minister with the Etterville CC in Etterville, MO, for eight years. Jim (87) and Nancy (attended) Burgett serve with Word of Life as lay pastors, working in the areas of deaf ministry, teaching and nursing home care. They live in Wichita, KS. Vonda Bland Hamilton (88) writes that she and her family continue to work among the deaf community around the world through their ministry, Expressions of Emmanuel. See details of their work and how you might help at expressionsofemmanuel.com. In January, M. Shane Wood (89) left a teaching position at Lincoln Christian University to become associate director of the Commission on Accreditation for the Association for Biblical Higher Education in Orlando, FL.
Renee Rude Saunders (74) recently retired after 26 years with the public school system in Norman, OK. On February 14, James McCracken (76) was honored by the Boulevard CC in Muskogee, OK, for 30 years of service. Terry Stine (76), president of Boise Bible College, has been named to the board of directors of the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
The Class of 1986 celebrated 30 years...
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ALUMNI NEWS: CLASS NOTES
1990s Ron Eden (91) has left a ten-year ministry with Bethany CC in Miami, OK, to become preaching minister of the Anthony CC in Anthony, KS. Craig Rathbone (91) is working at Voice of the Martyrs in Bartlesville, OK, as part of the digital archive department. The Rathbones live in Pryor, OK. He also serves as part-time worship leader with the Catoosa Hills CC in Catoosa, OK.
2000s In August 2015, Jared Altic (01) celebrated 15 years of ministry with the Wyandotte County CC in Kansas City, KS. Derek Addleman (01) and Joanna Borzasi were married in Bandon, OR, on February 20. Steve Newland (03) received his Master of Arts in Global Leadership from the School of Intercultural Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary this year. Steve and Lacy (03) live in Lakeland, FL, where he has served as the senior minister of Legacy CC for four years. Tim Casey (06) has resigned his teaching position with College Heights Christian School in Joplin to join the staff of the Isaac Newton Christian Academy in Cedar Rapids, IA, where he will be the secondary Bible teacher and will help develop the Bible curriculum as the school expands the high school program.
Jim (93) and Rhoda Souder (92) Frech recently celebrated ten years of ministry with the Galesburg CC in Galesburg, KS. Sarah Abbott Fisher (95) is working for the national office of American Heritage Girls, Inc., a character development program for girls. Their mission statement is, “Building women of integrity through service to God, family, community and country.” Nathan Lawson (06) was awarded a Master of Divinity on May 7 from Emmanuel Christian Seminary. He is the preaching minister with the Windsor Road CC in Greenville, SC. Debra Hogg (07) and Jason Fulton were married on February 20 and are making their home in Buford, GA. She is involved in the music ministry at Lilburn CC, teaches private music lessons and works as the director of rental operations at New School of Music. Matt Judah (07) defended his dissertation in March 2015 and will complete his Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Oklahoma State University this May. He accepted a tenure track assistant professor position at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA, which begins in the fall. Stephen Lawson (08) and Emily Terry were married on May 21 in Greenville, SC. After studying in Germany this summer, they will make their home in St. Louis, MO.
Ben (97) and Telah Scott (attended) McClary recently celebrated two years of ministry with a new church plant, The Orchard CC in Emmett, ID, where Ben serves as lead pastor.
In April, Daralice Jones Allison (11) started her second year of ministry with Good News Productions, International in Joplin. Jordan (12) and Hannah Randolph (12) Magelssen are living in Hilton Head, SC, where he will serve as creative arts pastor at Low County Community Church. They left a ministry with College Heights CC in Joplin. Rick (12) and Carrie Conrad (06) Harter are joining the staff of Cookson Hills Christian Ministries in Kansas, OK. Rick will serve as a counselor beginning in August, and they will both serve as utility workers on the staff. Joseph Lang (14) is leaving a ministry in Ocala, FL, to join the staff of Northside CC in New Albany, IN. Chase (15) and Ariel Dennis (14) Dilworth are living in Lincoln, IL, where he is serving as office administrator/senior administrative assistant with Lincoln CC. Madeline Bridgford (16) will continue to work as an administrative assistant at College Heights CC in Joplin. Amanda Chitwood (16) will be serving on the family life team at Manchester CC in Manchester, NH. Alex Christian (16) will continue to work with Christ In Youth in the area of worship production.
...and the Class of 2006 celebrated ten years.
Elke Hupp Fallas (16) is working as an administrative assistant for Midwestern Interactive in Joplin. TO CONNECT
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ALUMNI NEWS: CLASS NOTES
2000s
CONTINUED
Brett Hartman (16) will continue to serve as the children’s and youth pastor at First CC of Garnett in Garnett, KS. Tyler Hoefling (16) continues to serve as the junior high minister at Hope City Church in Joplin. Drake Holderman (16) is serving as the junior high minister at Christ’s Church of Oronogo, MO. Chase Marcus (16) and Alyssa Tamerius (16) were married on May 20 in Joplin. Chase will serve as youth minister with Racine CC in Racine, MO, and Alyssa will continue working at Choices Medical in Joplin and pursue a nursing degree. Ben and Sarah Pattullo (16) Menge have moved to Denver, CO, to work at Emmaus Church.
Malachi Murdock (16) has accepted a position as middle school Bible teacher at College Heights Christian School starting this fall. His wife, Andrea Hurley (15), is serving as an associate ministry assistant in the children’s ministry at College Heights CC. Cole (16) and Kelly Davis (16) Parrish have moved to Valencia, CA, where he will attend graduate school at Fuller Theological Seminary and serve as resident pastor at Real Life Church Canyon Country campus. Kelly will work alongside Cole in his ministry as a volunteer and seek employment in the area. Shanqi Alan Wan (16) is working at Good News Productions, International in Joplin. Travis Wilcoxen (16) will continue as the preaching minister at Grenola CC in Grenola, KS.
PUBLICATIONS ARTICLES: Behavior Therapy “Electrocortical Evidence of Enhanced Performance Monitoring in Social Anxiety” by Matt Judah (07) Cognitive, Affective, and Behavioral Neuroscience “The Effects of Self-focus on Attentional Biases in Social Anxiety” by Matt Judah (07) NeuroImage: Clinical “Neural Responses to Maternal Praise and Criticism: Relationship to Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in High-risk Adolescent Girls” by Matt Judah (07) Psychiatry Research “Trait Attentional Control Influences the Relationship between Repetitive Negative Thinking and Psychological Symptoms” by Matt Judah (07) Psychology and Neuroscience “Inhibition of Attention for Affective Material: Contributions by HOMER1 Gene Variation” by Matt Judah (07)
ATTENDED
BOOKS:
Aric Marshall earned a Master of Arts in Worship Studies from Lincoln Christian Seminary, Lincoln, IL, in May. Aric ministers with the Scott Avenue CC in Newton, IL.
NIV Spanish-Greek Reverse Interlinear translated by David Fish (76/current faculty). Published by Lexham Press.
Kelly Ross is serving as preaching minister of the Center Point CC in Carthage, MO, leaving a youth ministry with Fir Road CC in Carl Junction, MO. Jim and Sheila Rutherford recently began their eighth year of ministry at God’s Shining Light Church in Tulsa, OK. Jim is an associate and preaching pastor, and Sheila is the lead worship leader. Jim also began his fifth year as associate director of Wings of Freedom, a faith-based, sober-living community in Tulsa. Tabitha Scott and Jared Barker were married on February 12 and are making their home in Bettendorf, IA.
FACULTY/STAFF: Ken Idleman (former president) has retired from the preaching ministry at Crossroads CC in Newburgh, IN. Ken and Kaylene (attended/former staff) plan to relocate to Louisville, KY. Ken will serve as vice president of leadership development with the Solomon Foundation, which assists new and expanding churches.
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When You, Then God: 7 Things God Is Waiting to Do in Your Life by Rusty George (94). Published by Tyndale. whenyouthengod.com
And Praying for Our Children Made a Little Easier: Psalms and Proverbs Adapted into Prayers for Our Children by Dennis Moss (71). Published by Tate Publishing. Me Too: Experience the God Who Understands by Jon Weece (97). Published by Thomas Nelson.
Rebekah Proctor
Mark & Connie White
Through the generosity of churches and individual partners like these, we reached our goal for the Difference annual fund.
Adam & Carolina Ponder
Thank you for investing in the next generation of servant leaders! Want to be the difference in 2016-2017? The goal is to raise $2.3 million, and we need friends like you to reach it!
Visit occ.edu/thedifference.
occ.edu/thedifference
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35 Bob & Lisa Witte
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ONE MORE THING A final thought from our assistant editor Amy Storms is a wife, mother, Strong Hall dorm mom, and Director of Marketing at OCC.
HOW BEAUTIFUL I don’t like feet.
Amy Storms I never have. When my kids were little,
I’d play “This Little Piggy” with their pudgy toddler toes, but beyond that—no, thank you. I didn’t care for the aroma of my daughter’s pretty pink pointe shoes when she danced ballet, and I’m not a fan of the college-guy feet that visit my apartment in Strong Hall. So when President Proctor suggested that we put feet on the cover of this issue . . . well, I may have winced. He explained that he didn’t mean hobbit feet—how ugly! He meant kingdom feet—and, as Isaiah says, how beautiful!1 Kingdom feet are beautiful, and I’m grateful to have had so many footsteps in which to follow. One such example is my husband’s grandfather, Dale Storms. Dale and his wife, Arlene, raised their three children to know and love the Lord—and all three of them graduated 1Isaiah 52:7 2Isaiah 66:1 3Luke 7:37-38 4Romans 10:14-15
from Ozark and still serve God today. At age 97 and after 70 years of marriage, Dale remains devoted to Arlene. Even as their physical and mental strength fades, their promise remains. Rose Tyler left beautiful kingdom footprints, too. She was my maternal grandmother—my mom’s mom—who raised four biological children and countless spiritual ones. A preacher’s wife, Rose managed the parsonage (and the parson!) with a quiet, gentle strength. Last year, Rose’s faith became sight, and she finally met face-to-face the King in whose steps she’d walked for nearly a century. Of course, Christ himself had the most beautiful feet of all. With them, he walked along hot dusty roads and atop cool sea waters. He could’ve propped his feet up on earth like a footstool,2 but instead he let them be washed by
a woman’s tears and anointed with her perfume.3 Christ’s feet climbed Mount Calvary, were nailed to a cross, and walked out of a tomb three days later, victorious. How beautiful. Like Dale and Rose and so many others, we follow in the footsteps of the risen King, to bring his good news to a world in desperate need. After all, what if they had not carried the gospel to us? And even more, what if we do not carry it to others? “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? . . . As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”4 How beautiful . . . are kingdom feet!