Ambassador Magazine Winter 2018

the

ambassador

the magazine of ozark christian college WINTER 2018

WINTER 2018 MADE TO MATTER A kingdom assignment with your name on it. p. 4 JOE WILLIAMS “God cares more about where you’re going than where you’ve been.” p. 10 KINGDOM FOOTPRINTS UPDATE Mission accomplished! p. 12

God’s Call: YOUR MISSION

MADE TO MATTER A kingdom assignment with your name on it. p. 4 JOE WILLIAMS “God cares more about where you’re going than where you’ve been.” p. 10 KINGDOM FOOTPRINTS UPDATE Mission accomplished! p. 12

CONTENTS TO INSPIRE President’s Perspective Matt Proctor Listening for God’s call in God’s clues

Featured Theme Chad Ragsdale

“You can go anywhere from here.”

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Why College?

The top ten reasons that Americans attend college, and how OCC answers them all.

New Testament Words Kenny Boles

An in-depth look at the language of Scripture

Ambassador Spotlight: Joe Williams Amy Storms

How one Ozark grad answered God’s call—and his own invitation.

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TO INFORM Campus News

Recent happenings at OCC

The Big Picture

A snapshot of life around campus

Meet Your OCC Family

Introducing Ozark faculty member, Dr. Marva Wesley

Coming Soon

Upcoming events at OCC

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TO CONNECT Here’s an Idea

Uncovering your giftedness to fulfill your kingdom assignment

Your Partnership Sergio Rizo

Helpful tools for Christian stewardship

Alumni News

Updates from alumni around the world

One More Thing Amy Storms

A final thought from our editor

The Ambassador magazine is published three times each year to inspire, inform, and connect the Ozark Christian College family.

Design: Lauren White Creative

Contributing Editors: Kathy Bowers, Jill English, Matt Proctor, Amy Storms

Contributing Photographers: R.J. Harbison, Jason Hayward, Mark Neuenschwander, David Summerlin Contact: Ozark Christian College 1111 N. Main Joplin, MO 64801 hello@occ.edu

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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. Ozark Christian College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE). OCC is also a Candidate for Accreditation with Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE

YOUR MISSION IS OUT THERE:

Matt Proctor has served as president of Ozark Christian College since 2006.

DISCOVERING GOD’S KINGDOM ASSIGNMENT FOR YOUR LIFE

Matt Proctor

In the movie Pearl Harbor, American fighter pilot Rafe McCawley is itching to fight the Nazis, and when the U.S. delays entering World War II, he volunteers for the British Royal Air Force.

It’s a dangerous assignment. When Rafe arrives at the English airfield, the British squadron commander meets him to show him the plane he will fly. As they walk by Spitfires shot up from the previous day’s battle, a messenger runs up, telling the commander that two more British pilots were shot down by the Germans.

The commander turns to Rafe and asks, “I’m curious, Pilot Officer. Are all Yanks as anxious as you to get themselves killed?”

Rafe does not hesitate: “Not anxious to die, sir. Just anxious to matter.”

A Kingdom Assignment with Your Name on It

This is one of the deepest desires of every human heart: a life of significance. George Bernard Shaw wrote, “This is the true joy in life—being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one.” We want to know that our one and only life made a difference, that we left a mark, that we somehow made a dent in the universe.

We are all anxious to matter.

That makes Ephesians 2:10 very good news: “We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Did you catch that?

God has uniquely handcrafted you for a specific kingdom assignment—a task which he put your name on long ago.

You have a mission.

Someone said, “God will never insult you by giving you an easy task,” and throughout Scripture, God commissions his people to do some crazy hard stuff—building arks, fighting giants, making disciples of all nations. These are not nice-but-unnecessary extra credit projects. Each assignment plays a role in God’s redemptive plan for history, and today God still calls ordinary believers to play a part in saving the world.

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Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest.

In other words, you matter.

The Difficulty of Discerning God’s Direction

In My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers writes, “One student a year who hears God’s call would be sufficient for God to have called the Bible college into existence. Its sole value…is for God to help himself to lives.” 1 At Ozark Christian College, I’ve seen God “help himself to lives” many times as students discover their calling. For a few, the call comes in a single defining moment, like a light suddenly switched on. For many, it’s a gradual realization over time, like the dawning of the sun. When they discover their kingdom assignment, all of them discover: they matter.

But hearing God’s call is not always easy. So many voices can mislead us. Respected Quaker professor Parker Palmer tells of being offered a college presidency—a career move with higher pay, status, and influence. The decision seemed like a no-brainer.

But in the Quaker custom, Palmer assembled a “clearness committee”—a half-dozen wise friends whose questions could help him discern God’s guidance. “Looking back,” Palmer confesses, “my real intent in convening this group was not to discern anything but to brag about being offered a job. I had already decided to accept!” He writes: For a while, the questions were easy: “What is your vision for this institution? What is its mission?” Halfway into the process, someone asked a question that sounded easy but turned out to be very hard: “What would you like most about being a president?”

I pondered for a full minute before I could respond. “Well, I would not like having to give up my writing and teaching.

I would not like the politics of the presidency. I would not like having to glad-hand people because they have money.”

Gently, the questioner interrupted me: “I asked what you would most like.”

I responded impatiently, “ Yes, yes, I’m working toward an answer.” Then I resumed my sullen but honest litany,

At Ozark Christian College, I’ve seen God “help himself to lives” many times as students discover their calling. For a few, the call comes in a single defining moment, like a light suddenly switched on. For many, it’s a gradual realization over time, like the dawning of the sun. When they discover their kingdom assignment, all of them discover: they matter.

“I would not like having to give up my summer vacations.

I would not like having to wear a suit and tie all the time…” Once again, the questioner called me back to the original question.

I felt compelled to give the only honest answer I possessed, an answer that appalled even me as I spoke it. “Well,” said I, in the smallest voice I possess, “I guess what I’d like most is getting my picture in the paper with the word ‘president’ under it.” I was sitting with seasoned Quakers who knew that though my answer was laughable, my mortal soul was clearly at stake! They did not laugh at all but went into a long and serious silence—a silence in which I could only sweat and inwardly groan.

Finally my questioner broke the silence with a question that cracked all of us up—and cracked me open. “Parker,” he said, “can you think of an easier way to get your picture in the paper?”

I called the school and withdrew my name. 2

Listening for God’s Call in God’s Clues

Because we want our lives to matter, we are sometimes tempted to pursue vocations—with higher salaries, greater recognition, or more influence—for which we were not made. At OCC, we want to help students discover God’s unique design for their lives. How do we do this?

I believe God has planted evidence in our lives that points toward our purpose. We encourage students to listen for God’s call in God’s clues: • “Listen to your abilities.” God gives talents we are to use to maximum effect (Matt 25:14-30). Whether it’s teaching, teambuilding, technical aptitude, or music, it’s a God-given clue to your call. Through spiritual gifts assessment and service opportunities, we help students find their strengths.

Someone said, “Your career is what you’re paid for; your calling is what you’re made for.” Your abilities point to the mission you were made for.

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Parker Palmer, Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation.

• “Listen to your motivations.” God hardwires into us certain passions—desires that fuel the use of our abilities. We ask students, “What are you good at?” But we also ask them, “What do you care about?” Frederick Buechner said, “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” Finding your “deep gladness” is a clue to your call.

• “Listen to your limitations.” All of us are created with innate personalities that include certain limitations. If I’m an introvert, perhaps sales is not my calling, and if I am not a detail-oriented person, maybe accounting isn’t a good fit.

Through tools like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, we help students understand their personalities, so they can make choices that honor their raw material. When you cut with—not against—the grain of the wood in your life, you avoid splinters. Recognizing your limitations can be a guide to discerning God’s direction.

• “Listen to your failures.” On occasion, God chooses our life’s great fall to be our life’s great call. I think of OCC graduate Juliet Rose, a former drug addict now serving in a recovery ministry. We encourage students to “squeeze their past for all its wisdom.” God loves redemption stories, and sometimes our failures are a clue to our calling.

Do you know a young person wrestling with their life’s purpose? Share with them this simple message: God doesn’t make spare people. He doesn’t create individuals he’s not planning on using, and there are no benchwarmers in the kingdom of God. God has a play in his playbook where he will call your jersey number. So listen well.

As we say at Ozark, “Your mission is out there. Training starts here.”

You were made to matter.

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FEATURED THEME

THE SADDEST HAPPY DAY OF THE YEAR: WHEN A LEARNING GOAL TAKES HUMAN SHAPE

Chad Ragsdale serves as assistant academic dean and professor of New Testament and hermeneutics at OCC.

Chad Ragsdale

Commencement is one of my favorite days of the year at Ozark. The fact that it functions as a gateway to summer is only a small part of the reason. Those of us who work and teach at OCC take a measure of pride in the close relationships that we build with our students during their years here. They are our ministry, and it’s our joy to invest in them, train them, and watch them grow as people, disciples, and leaders.

So when graduation rolls around, there’s a mixture of melancholy and pride. When you’ve spent years getting to know a student, it’s difficult to see them move on…but that’s also the whole point. At Ozark, our stated learning goal for all of our students is that they look more like Christ by being biblically grounded, culturally engaged, spiritually matured, and vocationally prepared. It’s an ambitious goal, but it reflects the heartbeat of our institution.

Graduation day is the moment when that learning goal, written on paper, takes human shape.

As the assistant academic dean, I get to participate in Commencement in a unique way. Each year, I get to read the graduates’ future plans aloud as they walk across the stage to receive their diploma. As they walk, I read the churches where they’ll minister and the countries where they’ll serve as missionaries. It’s a gratifying and humbling experience each year.

In May, we celebrated one of the largest graduating classes in our 75-year history. Recently, I read back through those graduation plans. There was the student taking a preaching ministry in rural Illinois while attending seminary. Another student accepted a residency at a church of over 20,000 in Arizona. One grad was moving to Japan to join a new church plant. Several students were going to work with organizations dedicated to combating the global sex trade, and a newly married couple would work to pay off debt so they could serve overseas.

I recalled the student who planned to use his degree to minister to autistic kids in Joplin and the student who will serve troubled

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teenagers with a ministry in California. There was the student who felt called to offer pastoral and compassionate care in a hospice ministry, and there were numerous students taking over youth and children’s ministries in Arkansas, Kansas, Illinois, Oklahoma, Colorado, and Missouri. Worship and creative arts ministers accepted calls to New Hampshire, Illinois, Oklahoma, and South Carolina. Students were pursuing graduate degrees in Colorado, Kentucky, Illinois, and Arkansas. Students in our dual degree program with Missouri Southern State University had accepted jobs in hospitals, schools, and businesses, uniquely prepared with a degree in Bible and a professional degree in their field. Students graduating from our online program were teaching in a Chicago preschool, preaching at a Kansas church, and working in an Oklahoma City youth ministry. And all of them—even the handful who still weren’t exactly sure where they were headed after graduation—knew that their mission—their call—was to serve God wherever he might send them.

You Can Go Anywhere from Here.

At a local high school, a prominent, painted sign by the doorway reads, “You can go anywhere from here.” I laugh each time I see it because it’s so obviously true. It would be weird if that weren’t the case. “You can go anywhere from here. Well, except France. We have no idea how you’d get there.” Apparently they weren’t accounting for an obnoxious literalist when they painted that sign. But of course that’s not the point of the sign.

The point is to communicate daily to the students in big, bold letters that their future is full of exciting and even unforeseen possibilities, with an education at that school.

Anyone who comes through the front doors of OCC’s Casteel Administration Building receives a similar message, in the form of a large mural painted on the entire inside wall. The mural depicts Matthew 9:35-38, where Jesus is moved to compassion when he sees the crowds—lost, harassed, and helpless like sheep

without a shepherd. But the crowds are not a pathetic, lost cause do. We are called to make disciples among the nations and our to Jesus. He sees in the crowds the potential for a great harvest… neighborhoods armed with the gospel of peace. We are light. if only there were enough workers. The passage closes with Jesus We are salt. We are fishers of men. We are royal priests. We are exhorting his disciples to pray that the Lord of the harvest would ambassadors. We are called to the harvest fields wherever they send out workers for this harvest. might be.

The message is clear, and Christ’s words are still true. The To follow after Jesus is to be on a mission. harvest is more plentiful than ever. Workers are still few. But At Ozark, we don’t give the mission. But we do offer a position.

God is still in the business of sending out workers. Ozark is We put students in a position to be prepared, encouraged, and dedicated to training those workers trained. We put students in a for the Christ-called mission position to hear from God and to wherever he might send them. have their imaginations captured The message is clear, and You can go anywhere from here, by his kingdom. And there are Christ’s words are still true. because God’s harvest-ready field more opportunities than ever for is everywhere.

Ozark to prepare and position The harvest is more plentiful students for their mission. Over Your Mission Is Out There. the past few years, we’ve made than ever. Workers are still Training Starts Here. significant, positive changes to our few. But God is still in the worship and children’s ministry To be on a mission is to be programs. We have created new single-mindedly devoted to a task. business of sending out programs in Christian formation To understand your mission is to workers. Ozark is dedicated and biblical justice. Our programs understand your reason for being— in intercultural studies, student your calling. Without a mission, to training those workers ministry, preaching, and psychology we’re adrift, moving from diversion and counseling continue to make for the Christ-called mission to diversion and never really grasping great strides every year. Our dual a purpose greater than ourselves. wherever he might send them. degree program with Missouri Mission for the Christian is Southern has never been stronger, indispensable even if we don’t find letting students earn bachelor’s the specific word used very often degrees from both Ozark and MSSU. And our fully online in the New Testament. From what I can tell, English versions degree program grows every semester, allowing older students only consistently use the word once in the entire New Testament to benefit from an Ozark education without having to relocate (Acts 12:25). But the idea of mission is everywhere in the pages to Joplin. of the New Testament. We are called to love God and love In other words, as you enter the harvest field, you really can go others. We are called to be servants of Christ and to grow into anywhere from here. Now more than ever, your mission is out his likeness. We are called to encouragement, to submission, and there, and training starts here. to sacrifice. We are called to bring glory to God in all that we TO INSPIRE

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ALL OF THE ABOVE

For many people, college is about preparing for a career. At Ozark, we help our students prepare for jobs through our Idleman Ministry Center (occ.edu/ministryopenings). But OCC also majors in what’s more important: spiritual growth and Christlike character. We say it like this: our graduates will be biblically grounded, spiritually matured, culturally engaged, and vocationally prepared. At Ozark, we believe God has a kingdom assignment for every student, and we help prepare them for whatever that is.

69% Prepare for a specific

55%

job or career

Increase financial opportunities

TOP

48%

Stay competitive in today’s job market

36%

7%

Strengthen critical thinking/ writing skills

Encourage spiritual growth

14%

Develop moral character

30%

22%

Learn how to make a difference in the world

25%

Learn about academic interests

*

Barna Research Group (barna.com)

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27%

Grow in leadership skills

Discover who you are

NEW TESTAMENT WORDS

NEW TESTAMENT WORDS

LAST Kenny Boles

So what should I write for my last article? Perhaps something outrageous?

(After all, they can’t fire me now, can they?) Or something profound?

(Nope—that bucket’s empty.) Or clever? Or witty? Maybe my last article should just be about the word “last.”

The Greek word for “last” is eschatos (ESS kah toss). It has become familiar to many of us in the word eschatology, the study of last things. Surprisingly, ancient Greek writers had little or no sense of eschatology. They did not see life directed toward a future goal. They seem to have given little thought to the end of the historical process.

The writers of the Old Testament changed all that. With God in control of history, and with a Messiah as the goal of history, the “last” days became very different. He who created the world “in the beginning” would finally bring things to a climax. “In the last days” God’s kingdom will be established (Mic 4:1), God’s people will come to him for blessings (Hos 3:5), and God’s enemies will be destroyed ( Jer 23:20). The last days are not vague and meaningless; the last days bring salvation! (This was the faith of Martha, by the way, when her brother Lazarus died. She said, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection in the last day,” John 11:24.)

But the New Testament announces startling news: the last days have arrived!

With the coming of Jesus—and his death and resurrection—the last days have already commenced. “In these last days” God has spoken to us by his Son (Heb 1:2). Christ “was revealed in these last times” for our sake (1 Pet 1:20). “In the last days,” God pours out his Spirit on all people (Acts 2:16-17). “Little children, this is the last hour” (1 John 2:18).

So fear not. God in Christ is the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End (Rev 1:8; 22:13). Therefore the last—and best—has already begun.

After many years authoring “New Testament Words” for OCC’s Compass and Ambassador magazines, Kenny Boles makes his final contribution here. Beginning this spring, the column will be written by OCC professor Jon Kehrer, who will write about both Hebrew and Greek words. We’re so grateful for Kenny’s wisdom, wit, and faithful service to OCC for over four decades. Download his previous articles at occ.edu/ntwords.

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AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: JOE WILLIAMS

ANSWERING THE CALL TO NEW LIFE Amy Storms

“God cares more about where you’re going than where you’ve been.”

Each week, hundreds of people at New Life Christian Church in Bella Vista, Arkansas, hear those words from their lead pastor, Joe Williams. “As I study God’s Word and teach it,” Joe explains, “there’s a message in there that really resonates with me. It’s at the heart of what Jesus was telling us. It’s what Paul meant when he said, ‘One thing I do: forget what’s behind. Strain toward what’s ahead.’1 It’s this: God cares a lot more about where you’re going than where you’ve been.”

Open to the Call: “I’m all ears.”

Today Joe speaks from firsthand experience, but he didn’t always plan to be a preacher. In fact, though he grew up in a minister’s home—Joe’s father is longtime preacher, Dick Williams—Joe intended to pursue a career in law enforcement.

“I didn’t feel called to ministry at all,” he admits. “It was honestly the furthest thing from my mind. But my parents wanted me to attend Bible college for a year after high school. I wasn’t against Ozark—I just wasn’t interested.”

So in the fall of 1994, as Joe moved into his OCC dorm room, nervousness kicked in. “I thought, ‘What have I gotten myself into?’ My roommate hadn’t arrived yet, and I sat on my bed and prayed. ‘All right, God, I’m here for a year. This isn’t where my heart is, but if you’ve got something to show me, this is your year to do it. I’m all ears.”

With that prayer, Joe’s anxiety left. “That whole year,” he recalls, “God showed me nothing. I was happy at Ozark—I played a lot of basketball and had fun in the dorm—but I was still directionless. I didn’t study or apply myself. I did just enough to get through, because I thought, ‘I’m only here for a year. None of this will matter.’”

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Philippians 3:13-14

Answering the Call: “I’m not going into ministry.”

As his year at Ozark drew to a close, Joe applied to Northeastern State University and lined up two jobs for the summer. He planned to put Ozark in his rearview mirror, but just before summer began, Joe got a call from a church in Yukon, Oklahoma.

“I hear you’re looking for an internship this summer,” the minister began.

“Well, you’ve heard wrong,” Joe answered. “I’ve already made my summer plans.”

The minister continued, and Joe sensed that he should keep listening: the internship would include youth ministry responsibilities, shadowing the senior minister, free housing, and a love offering at the end of the summer. That weekend, Joe drove to Oklahoma to interview with the elders. He was honest about his intentions.

“I’m not coming back to Ozark,” he said. “I’m not ministry bound.”

“So, you don’t plan to work in a church, then?” the elders asked.

“Correct.”

“You’re hired!” they replied.

“I’m not going into ministry,” Joe warned again.

“That’s good enough for us!”

Joe served all summer in Yukon, and as he did, his heart softened. On his last Sunday there, Joe preached his first sermon ever. He delivered the message and sat down. When the minister offered the invitation, eight people came forward to make decisions for Christ. A few joined the church, and a few were baptized. “I knew it wasn’t my words,” Joe says, “It was a Holy Spirit moment. I watched all this and got emotional. As clear as anything, I sensed God saying, ‘You need to go back to Ozark and dedicate your life to ministry.’”

It was a Holy Spirit moment.

As clear as anything, I sensed God saying, “You need to go back to Ozark and dedicate your life to ministry.”

At that, Joe himself stood up and walked the church aisle again. “What are you doing?” the minister asked. “I’m making a decision,” Joe said. “I’m going into full-time ministry.” Joe had accepted the invitation to his own sermon.

A New Direction: “I started to feel called again.”

A week later, Joe moved back into the dorm at Ozark, and for the next three years, he studied with a new focus and passion. Joe served on camp teams and learned from Greg and Deb Hafer.

His love for preaching grew under Dr. Mark Scott, and he met his future wife, Kirsten Bentsen.

“I loved every minute of my experience at Ozark,” Joe says.

“From the depth of knowledge of Dr. Lynn Gardner, to the kindness of Woody Wilkinson, to the humor of Jackina Stark… all the professors were genuine and had my best interest in mind.”

After graduating from OCC, Joe interned in Gresham, Oregon, and earned a master’s degree at Lincoln Christian Seminary (now Lincoln Christian University). Joe and Kirsten served at churches in Illinois, Indiana, and Oklahoma before joining the staff of Northside Christian Church in Kansas City, Missouri. During their decade-long ministry there, their two sons, Neil and Brock, were born.

Then, in 2014, God called again.

“We weren’t looking to leave Northside,” Joe says. “In fact, when Bella Vista Christian Church called, I was on a wave of the best two years I’d had in ministry.” But after several interviews and repeated confirmation from God, Joe says, “I started to feel

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called again. I told Kirsten, ‘I think I can help them reach what they’re wanting to do.’” Joe joined the Bella Vista church staff in October 2014.

A New Life: “I just get to be the guy…”

When Joe began, BVCC averaged 350 people each weekend.

Today, they average 800 in their four services. Last year, Joe led the church through 31 weeks of The Story series, and the impact was profound. “People grew and came alive, and new ministries were started as a result,” he says. “We have 800 people attending our church, but we gave away nearly 2,100 Story books.

That means God’s Word has left our building, and it’s in our community!”

“The success we’re having,” Joe continues, “has God’s hand on it all. The elders have been planning much of what we’re doing now since before I became the minister. I just get to be the guy who’s in the right place at the right time. It has been a whirlwind of fun and excitement. Never in my wildest dreams did I think we’d see these results. We’re experiencing a combination of God blessing us and leveraging us for something that’s bigger than what we can see right now.”

The community of Bella Vista is growing, too—economically and numerically. As home to three Fortune 500 companies— Walmart, Tyson Chicken, and J.B. Hunt—Northwest Arkansas is on pace to be one of the nation’s 100 largest metropolitan statistical areas within three years.2 With this in mind, in January 2016, Joe and the elders officially renamed Bella Vista Christian Church to New Life Christian Church. “New Life” represents both a new life in Northwest Arkansas, and a new life in Christ.

“Most people aren’t from here,” says Joe. “The majority of our church members are originally from Austin, Houston, Dallas, Tulsa…rare is the person who’s from Northwest Arkansas. But they move here to start something brand new—a new family, a new job, a new retirement.”

The name also points to a new life in Christ. “People from all over the country move to this area, and they’re looking for the new life that only Christ can offer,” Joe says. “And why can we have new life? Because of this: God cares more about where you’re going than where you’ve been.”

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CAMPUS NEWS

Chapel Expansion and Spring Production

Expansion on the OCC chapel is now complete, thanks to the hard work of Crossland Construction and your generous gifts to the Kingdom Footprints campaign. The project added 5,500 square feet, 300 seats, larger restroom facilities, and an elevator to the building. We look forward to re-opening the chapel to students for our weekly chapel services and to the community for the Preaching-Teaching Convention (February 19-21) and our spring drama production, A Tale of Two Cities (April 27-29).

Kingdom Footprints Campaign Goal Exceeded

Special thanks to the many churches and individuals who helped us reach—and surpass!—our Kingdom Footprints campaign goal. OCC’s largest ever capital campaign, Kingdom Footprints had three initiatives: construction of the Idleman Ministry Center, expansion of the chapel, and the establishment of an endowed scholarship fund. When the original campaign goal of $3.5 million was met quickly, we raised it to $4 million.

More than 700 churches and individuals helped us exceed our goal again, with over $4.1 million committed to date. Thanks to our generous partners, OCC will continue to leave kingdom footprints around the globe.

Cross Country Takes Fourth in the Nation

In November, the OCC men’s cross country team competed in the NCCAA Division II National Tournament at Belhaven University in Jackson, Mississippi. The team placed fourth overall, with sophomores Ryan Gottschalk and Chris LaRue placing eleventh and thirteenth, respectively.

OCC cross country is coached by Jeremy Butler.

Congratulations, Ambassadors!

NextLevel Online

This year, the free video resources available through NextLevel Online have been accessed by over 23,000 individuals and churches in all 50 states and over 30 countries worldwide. Many churches use NextLevel Online as curriculum in Sunday School and small groups. Topics include student and children’s ministry training with Kevin Greer and Dr. Teresa Welch, Romans with Michael DeFazio, Revelation with Shane Wood, Apologetics with Chad Ragsdale, and more. Access the videos at occ.edu/nextlevel.

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CAMPUS NEWS Greg Hafer Retires

Recently we honored Greg Hafer, who, after 28 years of service at OCC, retired on December 31. Professor, dean of men, interim president, and executive vice president are just a few of the many roles that Greg has faithfully served at Ozark. His heart for our students, clear communication skills, wise counsel, and tireless commitment to our mission will be sorely missed on campus.

Thank you, Greg, for being an example of Christ to so many. Well done!

As Greg retires, Beth DeFazio (04) will join our academic faculty full-time, teaching Speech and Biblical Communications. Beth travels nationwide, speaking at Christ In Youth conferences and other events. She holds a Master of Arts in Communication from Liberty University and lives in Webb City, MO, with her husband, Michael, and their two children, Claire and Carson.

Welcome, Katie Hargrove

This spring, the Intercultural Studies Department welcomes Katie Hargrove to campus as our Visiting Intercultural Professor. Originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, Katie has spent the last 13 years living stateside as an urban missionary. After serving in inner-city Chicago, Katie moved to Joplin to assist in the start-up and development of the Christian community non-profit, Neighborhood Life House. Katie has a bachelor’s in International Studies from Missouri Southern State University and a master’s in Urban Studies and Youth Development from Eastern University. She currently works for Joplin Schools in elementary education and continues to mentor junior high girls from Neighborhood Life House. Welcome, Katie!

Best Wishes

Thank you to Jeff Robertson and Bill McCarty, who have closed their service with OCC. After teaching part-time for several years, Jeff and his wife, Jane, are moving to Barbados, West Indies, to serve with Windward Islands School of Evangelism. Bill retired in December after serving for ten years as a custodian at OCC.

SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

Josh Gregor Ken Idleman Preaching Scholarship

Michael Hinnen Don DeWelt Preaching Scholarship

Kelsey Wheeler George & Tasci King Music Scholarship

Congratulations to our fall scholarship recipients!

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HEARD IN CHAPEL

Each week, our college family is challenged by outstanding messages in our chapel services. Watch the messages at occ.edu/chapel or on Ozark’s YouTube channel. Here’s a taste of what we’ve heard recently.

You don’t vent anger, and you don’t stuff anger.

You pray anger.

President Matt Proctor

When I Feel: Anger | 10/17/17

Fear is being overtaken by craving because of You, Lord Shepherd. Because of You. Guest Speaker David Erickson

When I Feel: Fear | 10/24/17

When I feel guilt, I can wallow in shame, or I can go under the knife of God and get well.

Dr. Mark Scott

When I Feel: Guilt | 11/01/17 TO INFORM

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EXPANDED LOBBY

As part of our Kingdom Footprints campaign, construction on the chapel building added 5,500 square feet, 300 seats, an expanded lobby and restrooms, and an elevator.

CHAPEL + 300 SEATS

+ 5,500 SQ FT

E X PA N S I O N LARGER RESTROOMS ELEVATOR

2018 PREACHING-TEACHING CONVENTION

Rick Atchley

Jon Kehrer

Drew Moore

Dr. Mark E. Moore

Sean Palmer

David Rutherford

Drew Sherman

Caleb Miller with Compass Worship

OZARK CHRISTIAN COLLEGE FEBRUARY 19-21 | OCC.EDU/PT MONDAY PRE-CONVENTION SEMINARS 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

TUESDAY-WEDNESDAY CONVENTION $60 per person

MEET YOUR OCC FAMILY

Marva loves to write and direct dramas—especially Passion plays. She has brought Scripture to the stage at churches in Jamaica, Canada, and the U.S. “I get ecstatic when I’m working on Passion plays. Drama affords a powerful medium to share the greatest message of all time. It’s exhilarating to develop characters and recreate a story that blends the old with the new in a relevant and life-changing manner.

“The life-changing outcome from my husband and two sons attending OCC, increased knowledge and appreciation of the Scriptures, and a fervent heart for missions and ministry are traditions that we want to pass down in our family.”

For fun, Marva enjoys playing logical deduction board games like CODE 777.

DR. MARVA WESLEY: FROM JAMAICA TO JOPLIN Whether counseling in Canada or teaching in Jamaica and Joplin, Dr. Marva Wesley is driven by her passion to serve Christ and people.

After growing up in Jamaica, Dr. Wesley used her gift of compassion in Canada, where she worked with teens, college students, and adults from diverse cultures and ethnicities at a youth and family counseling agency. She also worked at Kids Help Phone, where she responded to crisis calls from college students in Ontario.

Later, in the U.S., Marva served as a counselor at College Heights Christian Counseling in Joplin. In 2007, she returned to Jamaica with her husband, Gil-

bert, and two sons, Nate and Tim. There, the Wesleys founded Caribbean Anchor of Hope, an outreach ministry to inner-city unchurched youth. Marva also taught as adjunct faculty at Caribbean Graduate School of Theology, the University College of the Caribbean, and the International University of the Caribbean in Kingston, Jamaica. Last year, the Wesleys returned to Joplin, and Marva joined the OCC faculty as a professor of Psychology and Counseling.

“Living in different cultures,” Marva says, “has enriched my understanding of cultural and ethnic diversity and broadened my experience in ministry.”

Dr. Wesley holds a B.A. in Theology, History, and Sociology from the University of West Indies in Kingston, Jamaica; an M.A. from Caribbean Graduate School of Theology in Kingston, Jamaica; and a Ph.D. from Capella University in Minneapolis, MN. She is also a certified counselor through the National Board of Certified Counselors.

“I have a special love and regard for college students. I’m indebted to them— especially to my two college age sons, who force me to embrace an ever-fresh perspective on issues, to laugh without hesitation, and to welcome spontaneity.”

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COMING SOON

FEBRUARY 19-21:

PREACHING-TEACHING CONVENTION Don’t miss this year’s Preaching-Teaching Convention, February 19-21 at OCC. Speakers Rick Atchley, Jon Kehrer, Drew Moore, Dr. Mark E. Moore, David Rutherford, Drew Sherman, and Sean Palmer will unpack our series in Joshua, “Be Strong.” Monday’s pre-convention seminars include student ministry training with Drew Moore, a Leadership Summit with Barry Cameron, Ken Idleman, Dr. Tim Wallingford, and more. The week also includes children’s sessions, Tuesday’s 25- and 50-year class reunions for the classes of 1993 and 1968, and Wednesday’s President’s Banquet for all alumni and friends. occ.edu/pt

APRIL 6-7:

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE Ladies, come be encouraged and equipped this spring as we hear from Danielle Wheeler, founder and executive director of Velvet Ashes, an online community of women serving overseas. With main sessions, worship, a prayer experience, and late-night fun, you’ll grow closer to God and one another. occ.edu/wc

APRIL 20-21:

DEEPER LIFE Take your high schoolers deeper this spring, at OCC’s Deeper Life conference. The weekend with guest speaker Logan Greer includes main sessions, breakout seminars, worship, and a chance for students to go deeper in relationship with the God who loves them. occ.edu/deeperlife

APRIL 27-29:

A TALE OF TWO CITIES Join us on campus this April for our spring production, A Tale of Two Cities. Choose from four performances: Friday at 7:00 p.m., Saturday at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. occ.edu/spring

MAY 11-12:

GRADUATION WEEKEND Mark your calendars now for this year’s Baccalaureate Service and Commencement at OCC!

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BACCALAUREATE

COMMENCEMENT

Friday, May 11 – 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 12 – 10:00 a.m.

COMING SOON

JUNE 4-8:

BRANSON CONFERENCE Adults 55+, now’s your chance to rest and refresh at the beautiful Clarion Hotel & Conference Center in Branson, Missouri. This year’s speaker, Randy Gariss, will explore the theme, “Your Mission Matters.” Join us! occ.edu/branson

JUNE 10-15:

CREATIVE ARTS ACADEMY High schoolers, register now for this summer’s Creative Arts Academy at OCC. You’ll learn worship and creative arts from professional artists in three tracks:

Musical: vocal, instrumental, sound design, production Visual: photography, filmmaking, graphic design, illustration, and animation Performing: theater, writing

Plus, guest speakers, field trips, evening worship, small groups, and more. Apply and pay by March 1 for the early bird rate of $240, or after March 1 for $275. Deadline to register is May 11. occ.edu/caa

EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE PODCAST

Join the conversation between Michael DeFazio, Chad Ragsdale, and Doug Welch on their podcast, Every Thought Captive. Each week, the three professors discuss theology, culture, and the intersection of the two.

Available now!

Subscribe on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Stitcher

JUNE AND JULY:

SPORTS CAMPS Every summer, the athletics department hosts sports camps for kids ages 3rd-12th grade.

Members of past and present Ambassador teams help Athletic Director Chris Lahm teach skills in athletics as well as foster spiritual growth. Space is limited, so register early. occ.edu/sportscamps BASKETBALL:

VOLLEYBALL:

CROSS COUNTRY:

Boys and Girls Day Camp Grades 3-5 // June 6-8

Junior High Girls 1 Grades 6-8 // June 13-15

Middle School SWMO Running Camp Grades 5-8 // July 21-23

Junior High Girls Grades 6-8 // June 10-13 Junior High Boys Grades 6-8 // June 17-20

High School Boys Grades 9-12 // June 24-28

Junior High Girls 2 Grades 6-8 // June 20-22

High School SWMO Running Camp Grades 9-12 // July 23-27

TO INFORM

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HERE’S AN IDEA

“YOU ARE COMMISSIONED FOR A LIFE MISSION!” Rick Warren

You know that God has a calling on your life, but how can you discover what that looks like? Here are three ways to help you discern the unique kingdom assignment that God has for you.

1. Know your COLOR:

The Color Code assessment identifies your core motives—power (red), intimacy (blue), peace (white), and fun (yellow). By looking at these motives, the Color Code uncovers why you do what you do.

colorcode.com

2. Know your SHAPE:

Pastor Rick Warren (Saddleback Church) uses the acrostic SHAPE to help people find and fulfill their purpose for life. Your SHAPE, Warren says, is your Spiritual gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, and Experiences.

pastorrick.com

3. Know your PERSONALITY:

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The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) discerns your personality by determining your preferences. MBTI measures extraversion/introversion, sensing/intuition, thinking/feeling, and judging/feeling.

16personalities.com

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YOUR PARTNERSHIP

Sergio Rizo serves as vice president of development at OCC.

GOD’S CALL...OUR MISSION Sergio Rizo

The Great Commission is our mission!

Our immediate mission is “training men and women for Christian service.” Did you know OCC also has an ultimate mission? It reads, “The ultimate mission of Ozark Christian College is to glorify God by evangelizing the lost and edifying Christians worldwide.” This ultimate mission is our “why” for training men and women for Christian service.

We don’t just train orators; we train preachers who will clearly present the gospel of Jesus. We’re not just in the business of educating mentors to influence young people; we train youth ministers who will help youth and families grow in the likeness of Christ. We do not merely equip non-profit employees; we train biblical justice workers to see through

a Jesus-lens how God’s will in heaven can be brought to Earth. And we do not prepare a young person merely for a future career; we train men and women to see the totality of their lives being used by Jesus for his mission: to make disciples of all nations (Matt 28:19). We agree with Donald McGavran who wrote: As my convictions about mission and church growth were being molded in the 1930s and 40s, they ran headlong into the thrust that mission is doing many good things in addition to evangelism. I could not accept this way of thinking about missions. These good deeds must, of course, be done, and Christians will do them. I myself was doing them. But they must never replace the essential task of mission, discipling the peoples of earth.

TRIBUTE GIFTS JULY 17-DECEMBER 21, 2017 MEMORIAL GIFTS: David Ahlgren M/M Ronald R. West Samantha Ahlgren M/M Ronald R. West Lawrence Beard Connie Ross Colleen Bennitt M/M C. Robert Hine Don Earl Boatman Bruce A. Ammerman, Suzanne Hanks Ron A. Briggs Lenora Briggs Dr. Paul T. Butler M/M Carl W. Cunningham, M/M C. Robert Hine, M/M William R. Robinson Herbert Casteel M/M C. Robert Hine Russel & Mary Crisler Mary Lou Harden Richard Daniels M/M Ron Culp Don DeWelt M/M Bradley Neal Ron Dunwoody M/M C. Robert Hine Jack Gabbert M/M Ron Culp Esther Grout M/M Robert Bates, M/M Ronald E. TOB.CONNECT 24 Cobb, M/M Russ Cobb, M/M Donald

M. Crowley, Alma Sue Farmer, Nola J. Hilgardner, Shirley A. Johannsen, M/M Paul Martin, Marcella Rogers, M/M Dale W. Romine, Norine C. Staab Ellen Hafer Sandra Abernathy, Jill E. English, M/M Douglas D. Miller, Park Plaza CC (Joplin) Max Hickerson M/M Lawson Adams, M/M Robert H. Stolz Glenn Jackson Evelyn D. Jackson Patrick & Eileen Johnson M/M Travis Carter, M/M Robert McClung Eldon & Anne King M/M Carl W. Cunningham Judy Lanham David Lanham James Marcum Michael J. Brown, Sonya M. Marcum Carol Mehrens M/M Ron Culp Connie Mieir M/M William H. Mieir, Sr. Amy Mintz M/M Merle Mintz Larry Morecraft Kathryn Morecraft Hazel Norris M/M Larry Catron

The Great Commission is our mission.

In May 2018, another 144 men and women will walk across our stage, carrying the gospel to the four corners of the globe.

That could not happen without you. The fruit of your generosity is seen in the students who leave this place. Thank you for praying and giving. Thank you for making OCC your mission, and for being our partner in the Great Commission!

Debra Pope M/M Ronald Baker, M/M Larry Catron, M/M Larry Cooper, Freeman Health System Cardiac Medical Unit, Emily L. Keeslar, M/M Kirk Lawson, M/M Warren Pendleton, Melba Plyler, Paula Richardson, Karen Turner, Elnore Wheeler Art Quinn, Jr. L. Ivagene Quinn Adam Ransom M/M James B. Ransom Lloyd Robbins Dr. & Mrs. C. Robert Wetzel Ed & Kathleen Seward Patricia Roane W. Jack Spratt Bruce A. Ammerman, M/M C. Robert Hine Arlene Storms M/M Lyle A. Rosenberry Dale Storms M/M Ray D. Carter, Gillam family, M/M Rob Hildreth, M/M Chuck Humphreys, Aldena R. Jordan, M/M Doug Miller, Treva L. Smith, Streza family, Vega family Dale & Arlene Storms M/M Larry Catron, M/M Mack Jennings, M/M Steve F. Jennings D. Lloyd Thomas M/M Wayne Schapeler, Elizabeth Thomas, Thelma I. Welliver, Linda Zellmer Janice Wallis Sandra Abernathy, College Heights CC (Joplin), Crusaders SS Class of College Heights CC (Joplin),

M/M Delmar L. Henady, M/M Willard L. Wallis, M/M Zeph Wallis, M/M Lyle Welch Henry & Delores Ward Thelma Truex & Laurel Kublick Roy Weece M/M William R. Robinson Ray Wheeler M/M Carl W. Cunningham Roy Wheeler M/M Richard Alspaw, Bruce A. Ammerman, Janice L. Baker, M/M R. Doug Barron, Berean Circle of Hillside CC (Amarillo, TX), Donna J. Bishop, M/M Joseph A. Bott, M/M Gary C. Cless, M/M Carl W. Cunningham, M/M Robin Duncan, Faithbuilders Bible Class of Hillside CC (Amarillo, TX), M/M Dan Fields, M/M Al Guardina, M/M Dan Harlow, M/M Tim Harlow, M/M T. Jerry Johnson, Lori Johnson, M/M Bill Kelsey, M/M Dennis Kime, M/M Mike Kurimsky, M/M Murrell G. Latimer, M/M Tom Powers, Joe Randal, Bill Roberts, Doris F. Salmon, Sue Schuneman, M/M John T. Smithee, Errol Stepp, M/M N. Paul Stradley, Trudy & Jack Striegel, M/M Dave Taylor, M/M Jay Taylor, Peggy Tredway Seth Wilson Bruce A. Ammerman Charles & Dorothy Wittenborn M/M David Wittenborn Donna Wohlenhaus M/M Ron L. Culp Bill Worthington M/M C. Robert Hine

ALUMNI NEWS

Troy Nelson serves as alumni relations director at OCC.

ALUMNI PROJECT UPDATE: MISSIONS BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS

Join us in our two-year alumni project as we fund three improvements to the Missions Building:

1. Elevator installed: offering ease of access to people with disabilities.

2. Lobby expanded: providing more room for students to study and socialize.

3. Outside stairwell enclosed: enhancing students’ safety in inclement weather.

HONOR GIFTS: Coralie Beard Connie Ross Gail Boatman Bruce A. Ammerman, Suzanne Hanks Glenn Boyes M/M David A. Duncan Chris & Carol DeWelt Caitlin M. Larimer Doug Miller M/M Robert L. Marsh, M/M Tito F. Rojas C. LaVern Newman M/M Harvey J. Newman OCC M/M Tito F. Rojas, M/M D. Lloyd Thomas Matt Proctor Vera Mushrush Matt & Katie Proctor M/M D. Lloyd Thomas Jerry Stansberry M/M Adam Beck Gil & Marilyn Steidley Grace & Truth Class of Cedar Ridge CC (Broken Arrow, OK) Mary Tellez Lopez M/M C. Robert Hine

The three improvements will cost $300,000, and we’re asking our alumni to cover $200,000 of the cost. To date, our generous alumni have already committed $126,438 toward this two-year project—thank you!

Will you be a part? Make your commitment online at occ.edu/alumniproject under the “Alumni Fund” category.

Or, send a gift to OCC Alumni Project, 1111 N Main, Joplin, MO 64801.

OCC’S MINISTRY CENTER: HERE FOR YOU

In a time of ministry transition? Looking to fill a position in your current ministry? Make use of Ozark’s career services through our Idleman Ministry Center.

The Ministry Center offers Christian service, internship, and placement services to students, churches, and ministry organizations around the world. Your alma mater looks forward to walking with you as you take your next steps in ministry.

Contact the Idleman Ministry Center at ministrycenter@occ.edu. Post a job opening or browse through the opportunities at occ.edu/ministryopenings.

JOIN US

Class Reunion Luncheon: ‘68 and ‘93

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20 OCC DINING HALL | 11:45 AM Celebrating the Class of 1968 and the Class of 1993.

President’s Banquet WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 MPB | 4 PM Buffet dinner, OCC update, and our annual Seth Wilson Outstanding Alumni Awards.

RSVP by February 18 to alumni@occ.edu or 417.626.1205.

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ALUMNI NEWS Ben (15) and Ruth Sikyta (15) Buckland on the birth of Josiah Quinn on September 25 in Kansas City, MO.

CONGRATULATIONS Garrett and Judy Osborn (15) Baugher on the arrival of Judah Harvey on December 15. Judy is the children’s minister at First CC in Carthage, MO.

Austin (16) and Pa See Caby on the birth of Roan Tshaj Yesji on October 9 in Joplin.

James (attended) and Elly Moreno (11) Daniel on the birth of Alexander Jon on January 3 in Joplin.

Austin and Amanda Booth (10) Ganyo on the birth of Harrison Norman Komala on November 1, 2016, in Tamala, Ghana, where the Ganyos serve as mission workers.

Reece (15) and Tesia Lahm (00) Hollingsworth on the arrival of Emmalyn Kae on October 25.

The Hollingsworths live in Tonganoxie, KS.

Adam and Sarah Charley (05) Kretzinger on the arrival of Gabriel Curtis on February 27, 2017, in Troy, KS.

Adam and Jenna Reynolds (15) Lang on the arrival of Emerson Adam on March 1, 2017, in Jackson, TN.

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Chase (15) and Ariel Dennis (14) Dilworth on the birth of Audrey Chase on December 30 in Lincoln, IL.

Ryan and Keesa Stammer (attended) Dodson on the arrival of Naomi Clare on November 22 in St. Louis, MO. Steve (13) and Dani Eynon on the birth of Hadassah Rose on October 11 in Phoenix, AZ. Steve serves on the ministry staff of Christ’s Church of the Valley in Peoria, AZ. Stephen (05) and Sara Buchan (08) Fluharty on the birth of Scarlett Hope on December 2 in Bartlesville, OK. Stephen works as an electronics maintenance tech with the Schlumberger Company and Sara is a stay-at-home mom.

Cameron (17) and Morgan Fankhauser (15) French welcomed Harrison Grey on August 12. Cameron is the connections pastor at Twin Oaks CC in Woodhaven, MI. Michael (attended) and Karissa Handley on the birth of Declan James on July 9 in Cincinnati, OH. Wes (13) and Jen Grove (10) Hinkle on the birth of Russell Glenn on August 31. The Hinkles minister with Unionville CC in Unionville, MO.

Jordan (08) and Megan Moore (attended) Howerton on the birth of Lennon Everly on September 7 in Glendale, AZ. Jordan is lead worship pastor in Peoria, AZ. Eric (09) and Kasey Darrow (12) Longing on the birth of Bayleigh in Joplin on November 28.

Matthew (16/current staff ) and Alli Scott (15) McBirth welcomed Asa Parker on December 16 in Joplin.

Stephen (08) and Emily Lawson on the birth of Maximus Justice on September 30 in St. Louis, MO.

ALUMNI NEWS Luke (attended) and Lindsay McFadden on the birth of Philip Omnaoy in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on November 6.

The McFaddens serve as missionaries in Southeast Asia.

Malachi (16) and Andrea Hurley (15) Murdock on the arrival of Finn Gregory on September 3 in Joplin. Malachi teaches at College Heights Christian School.

Jackson and Rahab Mbuthia (11) Ndegwa on the birth of Aiden Wanjohi on August 20 in Karen, Kenya.

Phil (10) and Leah Goins (08) Nelson on the birth of Emet Melvin in Louisville, KY, on September 7. The Nelsons are attending graduate school in Louisville.

Chad (13) and Kimberly Pickens on the birth of Judah Elliot on October 28. Chad serves as outreach minister with Valley View CC in Dallas.

Drew (attended) and Jessica Tanner (08) Pommert on the birth of Rebekah Lynn on August 14 in Joplin.

Scott (15) and Kendra Phillips (13) Reed on the birth of Lydia Grace on November 16. Scott serves as lead minister with the Monroe CC in Monroe, MI. Travis (09) and Nichole Palmateer (09) Roberts on the arrival of Calvin Dean on November 29. Travis is a church planter with The District Church in Delano, KS.

David (attended) and Kristin (current staff ) Taylor on the birth of Jace Eren on September 16 in Joplin.

Luke (17) and Rebekah Moyers (14) Proctor on the arrival of Judah Matthew on November 4. Luke serves as minister in residence with Plainfield CC in Plainfield, IN.

Andrew (attended) and Becca Maslikowski (14) Snell on the birth of Ollie James on November 10 in Joplin.

Josh (10) and Elyse Palmer (07) Squibb on the birth of Lorelai Brielle on November 9 in Katy, TX.

James (11) and Jamey McElravy (attended) Tenorio on the birth of Jireh Nathaniel on December 6 in Grand Prairie, TX. Thom (08) and Erica Calderon (06) Stark on the birth of Nahua Alaide on September 12 in Ozark, MO.

Benji (attended) and Kate Ward on the birth of Cole Jackson on August 14 in Waynesville, MO. Brice (04) and Amanda Muter (03) Wurdeman on the birth of Greeley Lechelle on September 1. Brice serves as director of Windward Islands School of Evangelism in Barbados, West Indies.

Zach (16) and Chelsea Martin (14) Wilkins on the birth of Ezekiel James on October 3 in Franklin, IN.

Aaron and Melinda Perry (12) Vaughn on the birth of Anna Rae on November 1 in Fort Thompson, SD. The Vaughns minister with Willow Ministries in South Dakota.

Dan and Alexis Flynn (attended) Williams on the birth of Mireya Flynn on September 15.

Big sister, Ariella Rae, was born in July 2014.

The Williams family lives in Barry, IL.

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ALUMNI NEWS

OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY Please lift up in prayer the families of the following alumni who have passed away in recent weeks.

Following several years of ill health, Charla Rhodes (attended) Behan passed away on November 29 in Joplin.

Albin Covington (former staff ) died on November 27 from injuries sustained in an auto accident near Shelbyville, MO. Loren Davis (attended/former staff ), 99 years old, passed away in Gentry, AR, on November 29.

Jim DePauw (attended) passed away suddenly in Des Moines, IA, on November 13.

Brian Early (84) suffered a fatal heart attack in Huntersville, NC, on November 10.

Doug Hass (attended) passed away in Joplin on September 20 following a sudden illness.

Robbin Huffines (attended) passed away on October 14 in Joplin.

Elsie Cook Walden Goble (59-M) passed away on December 13 in Houston, TX.

Wilbur Johnson (53-M) passed away in Ashland, KS, on December 7.

After a battle with ALS, John Manning (72) passed away in Lakes Charles, LA, on August 29.

Carolyn Welch McKnight (attended) passed away in Tecumseh, OK, on September 4.

Margaret Hiebert Moberly (attended) passed away on December 20. She had been living in Boswell, IN. Jerry Oberg (86) passed away in Tulsa, OK, on September 30 from complications of diabetes.

After dealing with years of illness, Isaac Petty (attended) died on October 11 in Sacramento, CA.

Following a sudden illness, Debra Lyttle Pope (attended) passed away on November 17 at her home in Joplin.

Phil Rehrig (84) passed away in Oklahoma City, OK, on October 29 following a courageous battle with leukemia.

Barbara Jo Stauffer (former staff ) passed away in Denver, CO, on July 20.

Following an illness, D. Eugene Stipe (57/former staff-M) passed away on December 27 in Yukon, OK, where he had lived the past several years.

Mary Beth Tyler Tehuno (attended-M) passed away on October 31 in Bethany, OK. Anneta Foster Wagner (attended) passed away on September 25 in Neosho, MO.

Following a short battle with cancer, Janice Wallis (former staff ) passed away on December 7 in Joplin.

Roy Wheeler (54) passed away in Wichita, KS, on August 25 following several years of declining health.

CLASS NOTES: 1950s Gene Weece (57) was honored on December 31 for 25 years of ministry with the First CC in Unionville, MO.

Gordon (59/former faculty) and Mary Morain (88) Clymer celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on September 20.

1960s Dean Overton (63-M) was named a Lifetime Achiever in the field of ministry by the Marquis Who’s Who on August 14. Dean served in located ministry as well as over 45 years in campus ministry and teaching at Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, NM.

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Shan (65) and Karen Pratt (attended) Rutherford retired from over 40 years of service with the Greenwood CC in Greenwood, IN.

Cathy Lakin Bullard (69) writes that she has retired from her childcare business of over 30 years. Cathy lives in Independence, MO.

1970s Congratulations to Danny Cavett (70-M) for being recognized by the Oklahoma Center for NonProfits as the 2017 Pat Potts Visionary Award recipient. Danny lives in Moore, OK, and is a cancer survivor.

Neil Gardner (76-M/former faculty) is serving as worship minister with the Central CC in Seymour, IN.

Steve Johnson (77) retired from ministry on August 30, having served with the Osage Hills CC in Tulsa, OK, as youth and associate minister for over 40 years.

Jeff (77/former faculty) and Jane Hintz (77) Robertson have announced plans to return to minister with Windward Islands School of Evangelism as staff member in Barbados, West Indies.

Fred Hintz (78) graduated from Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, in May 2017 with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Phoebe Rees (79) shares that she is working full-time as overnight cashier at the Walmart store in Webb City, MO.

ALUMNI NEWS

1980s

2010s

Amy Gruenwald Idleman (84) and Kevin Baker were married on September 16 and now live in Derby, KS.

Congratulations to Josh Negron (10), who was named employee of the year for Roper Kia in Joplin.

Andrew (13) and Rebecca Gober (attended) Zoll are living in Flagstaff, AZ, where he serves as associate adult ministries pastor with Christ’s Church of Flagstaff.

Kendall Beye (16) is the teen minister with Tyro CC in Tyro, KS.

Andy Schroeder (88) accepted the position of senior pastor with the Seymour CC in Seymour, IN.

In June, Derek Voorhees (89) was named president of Boise Bible College in Boise, ID.

1990s Karl (92) and Jill Hargrave (attended) Halverson have returned to Kosova with the goal of establishing a center for teaching English as well as offering professional coaching and educational seminars.

Scott Walker (94) continues to serve as director of Shared Blessings Ministries in McAlester, OK, and recently became the minister with Central CC in McAlester.

2000s Michelle Peek Zuniga (02) writes that February 2018 marks 15 years since the founding of Con Mis Manos Deaf Ministry in Metamoras, Mexico.

Will Pruett (03) is the new senior minister with Town and Country CC in Yukon, OK. Brian Clark (04) is now serving as youth minister with the Northview CC in Danville, IN. Mario Gonzalez (04) is serving as associate pastor with the New Life CC in Bella Vista, AR, leaving a ministry in Grand Prairie, TX. Scott Lerwick (04) is serving as lead pastor with the Thurston CC in Thurston, OR. Andrew Ramey (04) is currently serving at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, TX, in their one-year CPE chaplain residency program.

Eric Pagan (05) is serving as a counselor with Restoration Counseling Services in Joplin, leaving a similar position with Christ’s Church of Oronogo, MO. Kyle Duncan (05) is serving as minister of life groups and missions at the South Broken Arrow campus of LifeChurch in Broken Arrow, OK. Rachel Hahn Zauala (07) is serving as a missionary in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, where she works with Rancho Ebenezer, a ministry of World Global Outreach. Her husband, Othniel, is the field coordinator for the work in Honduras.

Dan (09) and Erica Humphrey (09) Ritchie have relocated to Fort Hood, TX, where he has been accepted as a chaplain in the U.S. Army.

Jordan Schultz (09) is serving as lead pastor of the Monmouth CC in Monmouth, IL.

Alex Christian (16) and Madison Mitchell (current student) were married in Oronogo, MO, on September 30. Both work with Christ In Youth in Joplin.

Molly Kraling (16) is serving as youth pastor with the Rhythm Church in Mason City, IA. Mark Bujarski (17) is serving as men’s minister with Christian Campus House at Missouri State University in Springfield, MO.

Alex (17) and Olivia Johnson (17) Goff are living in Alexandria, MN, where he is the associate minister with the New Life CC.

Whitney Matlack (17) and James Bond (current student) were married in Pella, IA, on December 30.

James McPike (17) is the student minister with the First CC in Carrollton, GA. Shane Robison (17) is serving as the youth minister with Owensboro CC in Owensboro, KY. Hannah Seitz (17) is serving as associate youth minister with the Antioch CC in Marion, IA. Jake Weece (17) and Jamie Trotter (2018 candidate) were married in Harrisonville, MO, on January 27 and will make their home in Danville, IL. TO CONNECT

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ALUMNI NEWS

ATTENDED

PUBLICATIONS

Daniel Alexander and Beth Mork were married on September 16.

Christian Standard

Doug Dorris is serving as interim minister with the Christian Church in Laverne, OK.

Brigette Relyea and Quinten Schubert were married in Australia on September 15.

Jon Taylor was recently named executive director of Coaching Mission International in Phoenix, AZ. This ministry exists to coach and encourage those already on the mission field and encourage others to begin mission works around the world.

Jessica Trumbull and Joshua Willman were married on December 16 and are making their home in Fort Wayne, IN.

Zach Wilkins and Cynthia Anderson (current student) were married on December 16 in Joplin.

Doug Williams, D. Med/D. Min, recently received the Dr. Richard C. Cabot, M.D., award which is presented to one recipient annually and recognizes “Excellence in Clinical Pastoral Education” (CPE). Doug is a chaplain at St. Catherine Hospital/Centura Health in Garden City, KS.

FACULTY/STAFF: Beth Rodenbaugh DeFazio (04/current faculty) received her Master of Arts in Communication from Liberty University in December 2017.

Mary Alice Gardner (former faculty) is now serving with Deaf Mission in Council Bluffs, IA.

SEPTEMBER

“Inner-City Catalyst: An Interview with Sampson Dunn”

by Rick Lowry (78) “A New Church Planted in an Old Church” by Matt Summers (99)

FALL 2017

“Overcoming Tribalism” by Dr. Chris DeWelt (76/current faculty)

“A Church for Forgotten Places”

by Jerry Harris (84) DECEMBER

“The Blessing of Daily Faithfulness”

by Kyle Idleman (98) “On Ramps…and Exits”

by Barry Cameron (77)

“We’re Glad You’re Here: Encouraging Your Ministry Staff ”

by Byron Williams (85) One Body

OCTOBER

“More Than Conquerors!”

by Victor Knowles (former faculty) “Christ—the Focus of Our Faith”

by Boyce Mouton (attended) “Outrageously Triumphant”

by Matt Proctor (93/president)

The Lookout

Bible Study Magazine

SEPTEMBER 10

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

“The Gospel of Adoption”

by Tyler Edwards (07) SEPTEMBER 17

“Psalm 23: A Song of Hope in Scary Times” by Kevin Morrow (current faculty)

“Strange Visions: Apocalyptic Imagery in Daniel 7-12”

by Jennifer Kenny Matheny (97).

OCTOBER 1

“The Reality and Relevance of the Holy Spirit” by Victor Knowles (former faculty)

Darling: A Woman’s Guide to Godly Sexuality

by Aanna Lang Greer (attended)

Making Common Sense Common: A Practical Application of Solomon’s Prayers by Jerl Joslin (78-M) Stand and Deliver by Victor Knowles (former faculty) Christian Barriers of Jesus: Conversations and Questions from the Indian Context by Paul Pennington (79)

TO CONNECT

“Easy Ways to Encourage Your Church Staff ”

by Lindsey Poznich Bell (06)

“The NACC: Identity, Inspiration, and Ideas” by Jerry Harris (84)

BOOKS

30

OCTOBER 8

A Tale of Souls

by Karen Rees (attended)

The Rose Weapon

by F.C. Shultz (15/current staff )

1111 N Main St Joplin, MO 64801 Change service requested

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ONE MORE THING

A final thought from our editor

WHAT DOES YOUR NAME MEAN?

Amy Storms is a wife, mother, Strong Hall dorm mom, and marketing and communications director at OCC.

Amy Storms

Some years ago at our neighborhood Starbucks, my husband ran into his friend—a priest at the Catholic church across the street.

“Father Mike!” Andy called. “Let me introduce you to my daughter, Anne.” Anne, who was eight or nine at the time, shook the priest’s hand. His kind eyes locked with hers.

“So good to meet you, Anne!” he said, never looking away.

“Anne. A beautiful name for a beautiful girl. Do you know what your name means?”

Anne smiled shyly. “I think it means, ‘graceful.’”

“Yes!” he encouraged. “Grace-full. Anne, you are full of grace.”

That evening, when Andy told me about their encounter, I teared up. What a thoughtful thing to say to a child! What a special way to bless another—by calling them by their name.

My mind raced. “I should do that!” I decided. I should learn the meanings of people’s names—maybe even buy one of those baby names books!—so I could plant thoughtful wisdom on people, just like Father Mike. I’d say, not undramatically, “Do you know what your name means?” and then, BOOM. I’d bless them with a mic drop—a Father Mike drop—and walk away.

1

Romans 9:25

My thoughts then jumped to how I could write or teach the story as an illustration—as a compelling call to know our identity in Christ. But a Holy Spirit nudge halted my plans.

A check in my spirit said simply, “Stop.”

I stopped. Then, this: “Child, what does your name mean?”

“Beloved,” I said aloud, because Amy means beloved.

“Yes!” came God’s inaudible but clear reply. “A beautiful name for My beautiful child. Amy, you are My beloved.”

I teared up again, awash with the warmth of God’s unconditional, unshakable love…for me.

As indeed he says in Hosea, “Those who were not my people I will call ‘my people,’ and her who was not beloved I will call ‘beloved.’” 1 God calls me beloved—not just because that’s what “Amy” means, but because that’s who God is. That’s where his call begins—not in accepting an assignment to carry out for him.

That’s important, but first…he calls us by name.

Do you know what your name means? Can you hear what he calls you? “A beautiful name for My beautiful child. You are My beloved.”