Winter 2016 Ambassador

the magazine of ozark christian college

WINTER 2016 UNCHANGING TRUTH FOR CHANGING TIMES Envisioning the kingdom possibilities of technology p. 4 WITHOUT BOUNDARIES Extending Ozark’s mission through online learning p. 9 MITCH PIERCY From Impact Brass & Singers to IT Director p. 19

Technology and the Gospel

“Because of Ozark’s online learning program, I’ll finish my degree within two years while serving on staff at my church.”

Chris Perkins,

OCC online student Worship pastor

For more than 70 years, Ozark has trained men and women to go out as workers into the harvest field.

Now, through the online learning program, we’re training workers who are already there.

Already serving in the field but still desire the Bible and ministry training that Ozark offers? Contact us today to find out how you can do both.

Visit us online: go.occ.edu/online-learning.

CONTENTS TO INSPIRE President’s Perspective Matt Proctor

Teaching our students to redeem technology

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An in-depth look at the language of Scripture

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New Testament Words Kenny Boles OCC Online

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A look at Ozark’s new online learning program

Featured Theme Shawn Lindsay

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Biblical education from blackboards to the World Wide Web

Just One: Jason Miller Dru Ashwell

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Creating environments to connect people with God

Just One: Eric Epperson Amy Storms

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Kingdom work is always about the King

TO INFORM Campus News

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The Big Picture A snapshot of life around campus 16 Recent happenings at OCC

Meet Your OCC Family

Introducing Ozark staff member, Mitch Piercy

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Coming Soon

Upcoming events at OCC

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TO CONNECT Here’s an Idea Dru Ashwell

Practical tips for your life and ministry from our editor

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Your Partnership David Duncan

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Alumni News Updates from alumni around the world 25

One More Thing Amy Storms A final thought from our assistant editor 32 Helpful tools for Christian stewardship

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, 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

CHANGING TECHNOLOGY, UNCHANGING TRUTH Matt Proctor

Technology is always changing.

When I was a country kid in Iowa, a “keyboard” was where we hung our truck keys, “laptop” was the place on Granny where grandkids sat, and “microchips” were what was left in the bag when the Ruffles were gone.

Curse and Blessing

Those days are gone, and today’s technology sometimes feels like a curse. Technology can steal our time (my overflowing inbox!), erode our relationships (my kids’ noses in their phones!), and empty our wallets.

Cyberbullying, Internet pornography, video game addiction, and Facebook arguments—technology has not always made life better. I grew up watching Little House on the Prairie, and some days I wish I could go back to simpler times.

But not even Laura Ingalls Wilder could do that. She died at age ninety in 1957, the same year the Russians launched a satellite into space. The girl who traveled by covered wagon lived to see the space age. None of us can escape technology’s relentless advance.

Technology is always changing . . . and that’s not always bad.

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A few weeks ago, I boarded a plane in Los Angeles. Somehow this metal tube rose into the air, and suddenly I was sitting in a chair in the sky! Fourteen hours later, I was standing in Japan. I deciphered the Japanese airport signs using Google Translate, a program on an amazing pocket computer called an iPhone. I spent nine days in Japan preaching, teaching, and encouraging missionaries, but I still got to see my family every night through a magical digital window called FaceTime.

Maybe technology can be a blessing after all.

Divine Mandate and Dangerous Temptation As Ozark prepares Christian leaders for the twenty-first century, we equip our students to think biblically about technology with these two simple, scriptural reflections: The use of technology can be a means of honoring God. Technology is “the creative activity of using tools to shape God’s creation for practical purposes.”1 Humans are made in the image of God, the ultimate Creator, so we have an innate, creative desire to invent

Tim Challies, The Next Story: Life and Faith After the Digital Explosion, Zondervan, 2011, p. 23.

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technology (Gen 1:27). But we also have a mandate to do so. God instructed mankind to “subdue the earth” and “have dominion over it” (Gen 1:28). So when we harness the natural world for constructive purposes—whether that’s fashioning a plow, building a bridge, or designing an airplane—we are obeying God’s earliest commands in Scripture.

Because someone envisioned new technology, I can see in the dark with an electric light, drive on paved roads to see my far-flung family, order a printed book delivered to my door for under $20, and thank the doctor who surgically removed my wife’s cancerous tumor. These uses of technology promote human flourishing, express the creativity that is part of the “image of God” in us, and honor God’s intent for mankind to “have dominion” over the earth.

However, the use of technology can also be a means of dishonoring God. With great possibility comes great peril, and ever since humanity’s fall in Genesis 3, the good gift of technology has been co-opted by our Enemy for his purposes.

How? It can do so simply by distracting our minds from “things above” as we spend hours surfing Facebook or playing

Cures and Side Effects

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

video games (Col 3:2). It can do so by tempting us to believe we are selfsufficient. Think of the tower-builders in Babel who thought their architectural prowess would bring them glory and power (Gen 11:4). We can find a false sense of security in our technological abilities and become “wise in our own eyes” with no need for God (Prov 3:7).

Technology can also amplify the opportunities for sin. Consider: lust has always lived in the human heart, but pornography can now be accessed anonymously at any moment from a device in my pocket. War has always been part of the human condition, but now a push of a button can vaporize a hundred thousand people in an instant.

Envy has always infected the human race, but instead of simply coveting my neighbor’s things, I can now use Instagram and Pinterest to covet strangers’ lives all around the world. “Our inventions,” said Thoreau, “are but an improved means to an unimproved end.”

In the hands of sinners like us, technology can draw our hearts away from God.

So how should a Christian respond?

Simply put, we should neither stubbornly resist technology—it can be used to honor God. Nor should we enthusiastically revere it—it can also lead us away from Him. Rather, we should thoughtfully redeem technology, making discerning use of it for God’s glory. Because technology is always changing, our students must be like the men of Issachar who “kept up-to-date in their understanding of the times and knew what Israel should do” (1 Chron 12:32).2 Specifically we challenge them to two disciplines.

First: envision the unintended consequences of a particular technology. Too often we see only the potential benefits of a new technology. When a commercial for a new medication shows happy, smiling people with improved lives, you’re ready to talk to your doctor about it . . . until a fast-talking voice at the end lists all of the medicine’s possible side effects. (“Take two pills daily for joint pain. May cause joint pain, nausea, migraine headache, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat and frequent panic attacks.”) The cure sounds worse than the disease!

Likewise a new technology may promise to “cure” a particular problem, but we should weigh that against the potential “side effects.” Example: the automobile has grown our nation’s economy, enabled more mobile lives, and allowed us to see more of the world.

But cars have also changed family structures, shifted urban demographics, led to hour-long commutes and filled cities with pollution. Along with the automobile’s benefits have come costs.3

Part of redeeming technology means anticipating its unintended consequences.

As Neil Postman says, “Technological change is not additive; it is ecological.”4 If I add a marble to a glass of water, I have not changed the water, but merely displaced a bit of it. I have a glass of water plus a marble. But if I add a drop of red dye to a glass of water, what do I have?

Not a glass of water plus a spot of red dye. Instead, I have a new coloration to every molecule of water. That is ecological change.

Postman writes, “A new medium does not add something; it changes everything.

In the year 1500, after the printing press was invented, you did not have old Europe plus the printing press. You had a different Europe. After television, America was not America plus television. Television gave a new coloration to every political campaign, to every home, to every school, to every church, to every industry, and so on.”5 The consequences of technological change are widespread, transformative,

As Ozark prepares Christian leaders for the twenty-first century, we equip our students to think biblically about technology.

International Standard Version.

Challies, p. 36.

Neil Postman, “Five Things We Need to Know About Technological Change,” neilpostman.org. I am indebted deeply here to Postman’s insightful lecture.

5 Ibid.

6 Ibid.

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Marbles and Red Dye

and often unintended. Those who invented television and the Internet and smartphones did not necessarily intend to turn our national political process into a form of entertainment. They didn’t mean “to make it impossible for an overweight person to run for high political office” or to reduce political campaigning to 30-second commercials and Twitterfriendly quotes.6 But it happened anyway.

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Teaching our students to redeem technology, then, means helping them see how it colors their lives and evaluate those consequences in light of Scripture.

We do not want them to unwittingly shape their lives to fit the requirements of technology. Rather, we want them shaping their lives to fit the requirements of God’s Word. We want to send out graduates equipped to teach people how to live faithfully for Christ, regardless of their technological context.

Technology always changes.

God’s truth never does.

Audio Players and Apps

The second discipline we want to cultivate in our students: envision the kingdom possibilities of technology. What if the “dye” of a particular technology could help color the world in gospel hues? Martin Luther once called the printing press “God’s highest act of grace” because it made Bibles—once rare and expensive—suddenly available for millions to read on their own, and the world was never the same again.

Can technology really make a gospel change in the world? OCC grads James and Katie serve in a 98% Muslim country in Northern Africa. In an oral culture where few read, they give out handheld solar audio players with recordings of the New Testament. One woman recently told Katie, “I’ve been listening to it over and over—this player is my new best friend!”

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velvetashes.com

TO INSPIRE

Changing Technology and Unchanging Truth

Smartphones are everywhere. Middle Eastern shepherds used to move their flock from one oasis to another—now they move from one cellphone tower to another! OCC alum Mike Schrage, executive director of GNPI, is producing an app called The Global Gospel in the world’s 25 most widely spoken languages.

In 88 short videos, the app tells the story of Jesus using biblical quotations and beautiful drawings. When completed, 3.6 billion people will have access to the gospel in their own language.

OCC alumnus Tyler Kakac uses his technical skills to tell stories, too.

Mentored by Disney’s award-winning Christian animator Glen Keane (The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Tangled), Tyler knows that some storytelling reinforces gospel values, even if it’s not explicitly evangelistic. He was a lead computer animator on the recent release The Peanuts Movie. Using CGI to bring Charlie Brown and Snoopy to life, Tyler helped tell a story about caring for others above yourself—a story that sparked a great conversation with my kids.

After nine years in China, OCC graduate Danielle Wheeler felt spiritual fatigue. A busy schedule and three small children made it hard to refresh her own soul, and finding trusted Christian sisters to lean on in her city was difficult. So Danielle used technology to connect, launching an online community called Velvet Ashes7 for women serving overseas.

In their virtual fellowship, these ladies share struggles and strengthen one another. Last year, Danielle organized an online weekend retreat, and 700 women in 92 countries participated, finding encouragement and renewal in Christ.

We want our students to make wise and discerning use of technology, because it really can open doors for God’s kingdom. In fact, in this issue of The Ambassador, you’ll read about our new online degree program at Ozark.

Workers are being trained for the harvest field—without having to relocate their families to Joplin—because of this online opportunity.

While our educational delivery systems may change, one thing remains the same: we are still a Bible college committed to teaching “the Word of Christ in the Spirit of Christ.” In an age of technological progress, some might think that theological progress means shifting from the historic teachings of Scripture.

That’s when I remember Carl Henry.

“If Billy Graham was the voice of the evangelical movement in the 20th century,” someone said, “then Carl F.H. Henry was its brains.” A theologian with two doctorates, Carl Henry helped found the magazine Christianity Today, as well as Fuller Theological Seminary and the National Association of Evangelicals, and he encouraged Graham to take advantage of new technologies. Through radio and television broadcasts, over 2 billion people heard Graham preach.

Though always willing to try new methods, Carl Henry was not willing to abandon the “old, old story.” In 1962, prominent theologian Karl Barth visited several American colleges as a guest lecturer, and in a question-andanswer forum at George Washington University, Henry stood to address Barth.

He identified himself as the editor of Christianity Today and posed a question about the historical factuality of Christ’s resurrection. Barth, who denied the historicity of the resurrection, replied in a humorous but scornful tone, “Did you say Christianity Today or Christianity Yesterday?” When the laughter in the room subsided, Carl Henry answered, “Yesterday, today and forever.”

Henry knew what we must remember: technology always changes. God’s truth never does.

NEW TESTAMENT WORDS

DREAD

Kenny Boles taught Greek and New Testament for more than 40 years.

Find more New Testament Words at occ.edu/words.

“Is there something missing from this recipe? Is it just me, or does this taste a little flat?” My dear wife sometimes asks me this, figuring that two tongues are better than one. Maybe too much sweetness needs to be balanced by a bit of tart lemon. Or maybe some spice, unpalatable by itself, is needed to put the total recipe in balance.

This brings me to say something similar about our love for God. One necessary ingredient, believe it or not, is a dash of fear and dread. The Greek word for “dread” (also translated “trembling”) is tromos (TRAW moss).

Let us follow this word’s tracks.

Wearing armor made by Ares, the god of war, Ereuthalion was the tallest and strongest man that men had ever seen.

When he issued a challenge to fight, “they trembled sore and were afraid, nor had any man courage” to face him (Iliad, 7.151). To quiver with fear is to feel great dread.

In the Greek version of the Old Testament, all the animals had fear and dread of Noah (Gen 9:2). After the Exodus, terror and dread fell on the people of Canaan when the Lord delivered his people (Exod 15:16).

When Habakkuk thought of the power of God the warrior, he said, “My heart pounded, my lips quivered . . . and trembling crept into my bones” (Hab 3:16).

In the New Testament a woman trembled to touch Jesus (Mark 5:33).

Slaves obeyed their masters with “fear and tromos” (Eph 6:5). Paul preached to the Corinthians “in weakness and in fear and in tromos” (1 Cor 2:3).

Now we have the flavor of tromos (a trembling dread, a quivering fear). It is a taste that would be overpowering by itself. But let us consider how it flavors these verses: “Work out your salvation with fear and tromos” (Phil 2:12) and “Serve the LORD with fear; rejoice with trembling” (Ps 2:11).

Charitable giving through individual retirement accounts IRA ROLLOVER If you are over age 70-½, Federal law permits you to roll over up to $100,000 from your IRA to charity without increasing your taxable income or paying any additional tax. These tax-free rollover gifts could be $1,000, $10,000 or any amount up to $100,000 this year.

These gifts satisfy your annual required minimum distribution.

Simply contact your custodian and request that an amount up to $100,000 be transferred to one or more of your favorite ministries.

Call or email for assistance: David Duncan 417.437.4774 duncan.david@occ.edu occ.edu/plannedgiving TO INSPIRE

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OCC ONLINE LEARNING go.occ.edu/online-learning

This school year, we’ve had 34 online students taking 484 hours.

STUDENT GENDER DEMOGRAPHICS

Male 62% Female 38% The online students transferred in 978 hours. (28.8 average)

Average Student Age

33.8

We have students enrolled from 13 states.

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TO INSPIRE

FEATURED THEME

ONLINE LEARNING:

EXTENDING OZARK’S MISSION WITH TECHNOLOGY Shawn Lindsay serves as OCC’s Associate Dean of Online Learning

Education and technology have a somewhat jaded relationship. Recently, I read a book on teaching in higher education. The book was written by seasoned professor Kenneth E. Elbe in the late 1970s, and a number of Elbe’s insights remain valuable in spite of the book’s age. However, the chapter on technology reminded me of the love/hate relationship most of us have with the subject.

Elbe referenced the use of technology as a “threat,” and as such, he predicted it would not have much impact on education in the years to come. I wrote “LOL” in the margin. He referred to blackboards—as in, slate and chalk— as “technological aids.” Elbe spoke for many of us, though, when he commented, “Technology offers the teacher a vague promise of increased effectiveness at the price of having to know and do more. Teachers will continue to do the easiest thing, both because of natural inclination and because of the many demands on their time.”1

Behind a Veil

Ah, there it is: technology hides behind a veil of making life easier, when in reality, it makes us feel like life is getting more complicated. And because of this, we often avoid technology, if we can.

Electronic innovations are frequently and fittingly described as “disruptions.”

Remember trying to program the VCR in the 1980s? A church elder once told me that putting a video projector in the sanctuary was “of the devil,” and he wasn’t joking.

We utter the same complaints as our ancestors who experienced “technological” shifts: from oral to written traditions, from manuscripts to printing presses, from books and newspapers to radio and TV broadcast signals, from records to cassettes to CDs (I skipped the 8-track on purpose). And then, the Internet happened. Now, we can Google all of the above and receive 910,000 hits in 0.64 seconds…about 1/5th of the time it takes a human to sneeze.

Technology is helping students become more mature followers of Christ and better-prepared leaders of the church.

The surge in devices like laptops, cell phones, and tablets, coupled with broadband Internet, is allowing colleges to meet a need for which students have been waiting generations: access.

A new door to learning is now open, offering an education with fewer time and geographic constraints. Since 2002, the growth of online education has significantly outpaced the overall growth of higher education.2 Currently in the United States, over 90% of public 4-year schools and 65% of private 4-year schools offer online education.3 In a 2014 study, Clinefelter and Aslanian4 discovered that 45% of undergraduates who enrolled in online degree programs did so because they wanted to enter a new career field or because they wanted the satisfaction of completing their degrees. And now, nearly half of all online students live more than 100 miles from campus.5

Education and technology, contrary to Elbe’s predictions, will never be the same.

We can fuss about technology, or get philosophical over it. We can try to ignore technology altogether, or we can selectively embrace it. In the case of online learning, colleges and churches can utilize new technologies to inform, train, and interact with a wider audience, without the boundaries of office hours and additional building space. It can be reasonably used to fulfill our mission.

That’s why Ozark Christian College began an online degree program this fall: to extend our mission of training men and women for Christian service to adult online students.

From Miles Away

With flexible 8-week classes and multiple start dates throughout the year, OCC’s online students can continue to serve in their jobs, churches, and homes while taking courses in Bible and ministry. Online students can experience Ozark’s rich tradition of preparing ministry leaders through exegetical Bible study and practical pastoral training—all from miles away, over their own laptops.

Technology is helping students become more mature followers of Christ and better-prepared leaders of the church.

At some point, all of us are frustrated by technology. However, with all that it can accomplish, the relationship between education and technology is moving once again in a positive direction. More importantly, at OCC, technology is letting us train more men and women for Christian service, and ultimately reach more people for the cause of Christ, to the glory of God.

Kenneth E. Elbe, The Craft of Teaching, 1st ed. (San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 1976), 81.

I. Elaine Allen and Jeff Seaman, Grade Level: Tracking online education in the United States (Babson Research Group, 2015) Accessed February 8, 2015, onlinelearningsurvey.com/reports/gradelevel.pdf 3 Ibid.

4 David L. Clinefelter and Carol B. Aslanian, Online College Students 2014: Comprehensive Data on Demands and Preferences (Louisville: The Learning House, Inc., 2014) Accessed August 7, 2014, learninghouse.com/ocs2014-report 5 TO INSPIRE Ibid.

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JUST ONE: JASON MILLER

BEHIND THE SCENES: HELPING CONNECT PEOPLE TO THE GOSPEL Dru Ashwell Ozark graduate Jason Miller came to OCC as a student in the fall of 1996. He has the honor of being the first paid student worker on the Ozark production team. For years, this special group of tech-savvy students has helped ensure that the many events held on campus are done with excellence. Jason’s job while a student has become his life mission.

A Tech-filled Pilgrimage

Jason is currently the production director of Christ In Youth’s Believe.

His pilgrimage to his present position is filled with technology-related roles. He began working for CIY in his junior year of college and stayed with the ministry until 2006. From 2006-2012, Jason served as production team leader at Connection Pointe Christian Church in Indianapolis, IN. From 2012-14, he led production training for Good News Productions, International, a ministry that “produces culturally relevant, biblically based content in digital, video, and print format to accelerate global evangelism. GNPI helps people access the gospel in their native language in a way they can understand.”1 1 2

gnpi.org/what-we-do NIV 1984, emphasis mine.

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Sharing Tech with the World

Jason says that “the ‘light bulb’ came on” while on a trip to India in 2009, and he “became passionate about using the technology we have here in the States and sharing it with the world, helping train and equip nationals overseas.” Jason has also traveled to Mexico, the Philippines, Indonesia, Chile, and South Africa. “Overseas,” he comments, “video is not as common as it is here, and it’s opening a lot of doors for the gospel.”

Technology is a Tool

Jason defines technology as “a tool to enhance what we’re trying to communicate.” He says his role is to help create environments that help people connect with God in worship.

“Tech can open doors and can break down barriers.”

“We don’t want all the tech to be noticed,” he comments. “When people don’t notice the technology, that’s a good thing!”

“There’s a danger in putting too much emphasis on technology,” he continues.

“We need a healthy amount of tech.

It’s unhealthy if you’re just putting on a show, and people focus on the tech and don’t capture the message. You can err on both sides of the pendulum (no production vs. too much production).

Strive for a healthy balance. Maximize the use of tech to get the most impact for the Gospel.”

“Production/technology doesn’t bring people to Christ; it helps connect them to the gospel message, and then God does the rest.”

Psalm 33:3 says, “Sing to him a new song, play skillfully, and shout for joy.”2 We are to be skillful in our service to the Lord. Whether up front on stage speaking or singing, or behind the scenes, making sure all of the sound, lighting, and video are honoring the Lord with excellence, may we follow Jason Miller’s example and maximize not only technology, but every aspect of our lives to make the most impact for the gospel.

Production/technology helps connect people to the gospel message, and then God does the rest.

JUST ONE: ERIC EPPERSON

AUTHENTICITY: HOW ONE KINGDOM WORKER TELLS THE GREATEST STORY

Amy Storms “Kingdom work is always about the King, and never about the work.”

It’s with that “always-about-theKing” vision that OCC grad Eric Epperson directs Christ In Youth’s Move conferences for high schoolers.

Last year, CIY Move reached 30,000 high school students in 31 conferences nationwide, and CIY as a whole ministered to 75,000 pre-teen through college students in all its conferences and trips. Epperson is a storyteller at heart, and as Move’s program director, he leads his team to create memorable moments to call students to kingdom work.

Eric’s own story began in Muskogee, OK, where kingdom worker seeds were planted by Boulevard Christian Church.

“Mentors shaped me and showed me what globally-minded ministry should look like,” he says. “Boulevard allowed me to be myself in the context of kingdom work, and gave me the space to discover some creative talents.”

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Videos are available at store.ciy.com.

The ministers at Boulevard were Ozark grads, and thanks to their influence, Eric followed in their footsteps. He graduated with a Bachelor of Biblical Literature and went on to earn a Master of Arts in Communication from the University of Oklahoma. Eric also studied writing and improvisational comedy at Second City in Chicago, and founded the comedy company, Siblings Improv, in Joplin. Eric and his wife Torrie, who teaches Environmental Science at OCC, have two young daughters: Alice, age four, and Wren Victoria, due this spring.

The End Goal

Christ In Youth is known for cutting-edge technology—for excellent video and stage production, and for making everything from an indoor snowstorm to a phone-based devotional series. But, as Eric says, technology isn’t the point.

“Being authentic comes before being technologically advanced,” he says.

“Technology isn’t the end goal. The goal is the story—the message that the technology communicates.”

“Technology bows a knee to the story,” Eric continues, “and if the programming moment doesn’t call for whatever creative or expensive idea we created, we cut it. Oscar Wilde told writers to ‘kill their darlings’ and cut out that idea they loved that didn’t fit the story. We need to do the

same when it comes to technology in churches. As an audience member, I don’t need you to impress me; I need you to move me.”

And the story of the gospel does exactly that: move us.

The ‘Just One’ Lie

That authentic gospel message is best told by authentic people—by people partnering together for the sake of the kingdom. Of his CIY co-workers, Eric says, “I’ve seen Drew Crisp create life-altering moments with the junk he has lying around in his garage. Jon Hill, who is the smartest person in the room in most of the rooms he’s in, can make anything and bring any idea to life. Jayson French had a vision for how film could play a role in communicating to students.

He assembled a team of earnest storytellers and competent technicians to bring stories of justice and hope from around the world to CIY events and churches. Since then, we’ve told stories about human trafficking in Cambodia, persecution in Iraq, foster care in NYC, and sexual assault in Guatemala.1 What makes these films come to life isn’t just the gear. It’s the collaborative effort.”

“This campaign, ‘Just One,’” Eric adds, “—it’s a lie. It’s never just one.”

And, kingdom work is never about the work. For authentic servant leaders like Eric Epperson, kingdom work is always about the King.

TO INSPIRE

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CAMPUS NEWS

MEN’S BASKETBALL OUTLOOK

The 2015-16 men’s basketball team is full of potential with five returners (including three starters) from last season’s 16-19 squad. The Ambassadors also welcome eight new players, including seven freshmen and one transfer. They opened their season in November at a tournament in Olathe, KS. Those returning from last season are seniors Jarred Witt (5.7 points per game) and Austin Turner (9.5), juniors Evan Hand (9.9) and Dawson Allmoslecher (14.6), and sophomore Brandon Williams (2.5). Newcomers include Tevin Gibson, Jensen Smith, Colton Banks, Deion Clark, Elijah Javier, Matthew Hanks, Aaron Nelson and Junior Atkinson.

In his eleventh season as the men’s head coach, Athletic Director Chris Lahm is excited about this year’s team.

“This group has great chemistry, and the upperclassmen are providing great leadership on and off the court for the new guys. They have been a delight to be around already this season. They worked very hard in the pre-season and are ready to go.”

The Ambassadors have moved back to the Central Region in the NCCAA and will compete for the regional title against Manhattan, Central and Baptist Bible College. Ozark will host the Midwest Christian College Conference Tournament February 18-20, as well as the ACCA National Tournament March 2-5.

LADY AMBASSADORS HAVE STRONG START

The Lady Ambassadors are off to a solid start this season, finishing up their first semester with a 4-4 overall record. They are led by senior Chelsea Woodring, who is averaging 19.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 3.3 steals per game. Her sister, Whitney Matlack, has started strong as well, averaging 13.8 points and 7.6 rebounds. Sophomore Baylee Hilton continues to put up consistent numbers (14.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.7 assists). The starting lineup is rounded out by junior Aspyn Schiltz (8.3 points, 7.3 rebounds) and sophomore Kendall Shultz (9.2 points, 7.8 rebounds).

These returning players were joined by newcomers Carrie Elrod (4.4 points, 5.4 rebounds) and Michaela Wederquist.

Though small in numbers, the team is mighty in heart! Led by Coach Tab Hall, the Lady Ambassadors are looking to finish the year even stronger than they started, which includes a deep push into the tournaments at the end of the season.

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OCC SOCCER WINS REGIONAL TOURNAMENT, QUALIFIES FOR NATIONALS

“When asked at the start of this season how the team looked,” Coach Kevin Greer says, “I told people I just wasn’t sure. However, it didn’t take long to see this group was special.”

The team came together quickly, and after losing their first game and tying their second (both against NAIA scholarship programs), they went on to win 10 of their next 12 regular season matches. They placed second in the Conference Tournament and then won an exciting match that ended in PKs over Manhattan Christian in the final match at the Regional Tournament. It was a fantastic way to end the season. The Regional Tournament win meant a place at the National Tournament in Orlando, Florida.

This year’s team was led by seniors Taylor Hunt, Nick Hilgediek, Kelvin Maina, Alex Christian and Nate Wesley. Juniors included Austin Sather, Skyler Davis, Sully Smith and Evan Belk. The team was rounded out by sophomores Lauro Soto, Christian Clark, Nick Cannon, Wes Woodring, Josiah Weece and Tyler Endicott, and freshmen Tim Wesley, Luis Ramos, Jake Sutherlin and Andrew Rogers.

Goalie Lauro Soto recorded 145 saves and 7 shut-outs. High scorers were Nick Cannon with 10, followed by Nate Wesley with 9, and three players with 8 each: Skyler Davis, Tim Wesley and Tyler Endicott. Our assist leader was Taylor Hunt with 7. Tim Wesley and Christian Clark each added 4 assists each.

CAMPUS NEWS

TAYLOR HUNT RECEIVES KYLE ROTE, JR. AWARD

Congratulations to OCC senior Taylor Hunt, who received the Kyle Rote, Jr. Award at the 2015 NCCAA Division II Men’s Soccer Championship Tournament in Kissimmee, FL. The top award within the sport, the Kyle Rote, Jr. Award recognizes academic excellence, athletic achievement and Christian service and conduct. Coach Kevin Greer says, “Taylor is the heart of our team! He leads by example in every practice, on all road trips, and throughout our campus. His love for the game is surpassed only by his love for Christ and those he ministers to.”

PARTNERING WITH JAPAN

Last fall, President Matt Proctor and Executive Vice President Damien Spikereit, along with a team from Southland Christian Church that included OCC grads Jon Weece and Dan Hamel, traveled to Japan to teach a leadership conference for Japanese pastors and leaders in Osaka. They also helped in a two-day sermon planning retreat in Kyoto. President Proctor and son, Luke, tagteam preached in Nagoya, and Damien preached at Mustard Seed CC in Osaka on the church’s four-year anniversary, witnessing the congregation’s 38th baptism. Mustard Seed CC is led by Ozark alumni Jared and Stephanie Henke, Andy and Jenny Rodriguez, Lyndsey Eubanks, Ethan and Audrey Greer, Jay Greer, and Seth and Megan Philip.

YOUTH MINISTRY STUDENTS ATTEND CONVENTION

Last November, eight youth ministry majors, along with Director of Youth Ministry Relations Kevin Greer and his wife, Debbie, attended the Youth Specialties National Convention in Louisville, KY. Students attend the annual convention as a class, receiving a credit. This year, they attended workshops led by youth workers from across the country, including, “Speaking to Youth” by Doug Fields, “Leading Small Groups” by Jonathan McKee, “Sticky Faith Family Ministry” by Kara Powell and “Answering the Question Every Gay and Sexually Variant Youth is Asking” by Mark Yarhouse. Students also attended main sessions with worship led by the Vertical Church Band and a concert with For King and Country.

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CAMPUS NEWS

PREACHING SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED FOR SPRING SEMESTER

In the final chapel service of the fall semester, Director of Preaching Dr. Mark Scott awarded two OCC Alumni preaching scholarships. Senior Brandon Fletcher received the Ken Idleman Preaching Scholarship, and senior Monte French received the Don DeWelt Preaching Scholarship. The recipients were selected by the OCC preaching faculty from a group of applicants. The DeWelt scholarship has been awarded by the OCC Alumni Association since 1992, and the Idleman scholarship since 2005.

MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED

DEAF MINISTRIES HONORED

Last semester, Music Department Director Scott Handley presented senior Aimee Oberzan with the King Music Scholarship. Since 1987, this award has been given for the spring semester, in honor of longtime OCC music professors George and Tasci King.

On November 5, the OCC deaf ministry program, under the direction of Mary Alice Gardner, was honored with a Shine the Light award at a gala sponsored by Joplin’s Independent Living Center. The Independent Living Center helps those living with disabilities. Mary Alice and her deaf ministry students have worked with the Independent Living Center for many years, striving to provide access to those in the deaf community.

OCC TRUSTEE NAMED OUTSTANDING CITIZEN

Longtime trustee and OCC businessman Clifford Wert was named the 2015 Outstanding Citizen of the Year during the annual banquet of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce.

Wert received a standing ovation from those in attendance, in appreciation for his leadership in the community.

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HEARD IN CHAPEL Our college family continues to be challenged by outstanding messages in Chapel each Tuesday. Listen to the messages at OCC.edu/media, or watch the messages on Ozark’s YouTube channel. Here’s a taste of what we’ve heard recently.

“

If you ever want to be part of something bigger than yourself, you’ve got to be ‘All In’!

”

- Jon Kehrer, 10.20.15 Kingdom Previews: Where Enemies Become Friends | occ.edu/media

“

Kingdom preaching is empowered by the Holy Spirit, announces the Jesus story, and creates a new community.

”

- Dr. Mark Scott, 11.3.15

Kingdom Footprints: Kingdom Preaching | occ.edu/media

“

The evidence of your appreciation for all you’ve been given will be found in all that you give.

”

- Travis Hurley, 11.17.15

Kingdom Footprints: Kingdom Giving | occ.edu/media

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OCC@OCC

Since 2001, OCC has participated in Operation Christmas Child, a giftgiving ministry of Samaritan’s Purse.

Last December, OCC students and staff packed and wrapped 123 gifts for children in Mexico.

Preaching-Teaching Convention Feb. 22-24, 2016

Dave Stone

Danny Curry

Jordan Rice

Cam Huxford

Southeast Christian Church Louisville, KY

Park Chapel Greenfield, IN

Renaissance Church New York, NY

Savannah Christian Church Savannah, GA

Rusty George

Michael DeFazio

Dudley Rutherford

Real Life Church Valencia, CA

Ozark Christian College Joplin, MO

Shepherd Church Porter Ranch, CA

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occ.edu/pt

Shepherd Church Worship Band

MEET YOUR OCC FAMILY Getting to know the people of Ozark Christian College

MITCH PIERCY: TAKING CARE OF PEOPLE “If it plugs in to the wall, we work on it!”

So goes the unofficial motto of OCC’s Information Technology Department, led

by Mitchell Piercy. Born in Frankfurt, Germany, Mitch grew up in Kokomo, Indiana, before attending Ozark in the mid-1980s. He married Lea Ann Ebersold in 1987.

In 1988, after studying electronics and robotics at ITT Technical Institute in Indianapolis, Mitch returned to Joplin to serve as chief engineer of KOBC Radio and to run sound for Impact Brass & Singers. Today, Mitch is OCC’s IT director, and Lea Ann is the residence director of Boatman Hall. In his nearly three decades at OCC, Mitch has overseen many changes, from the installation of phone and Internet lines in every dorm room, to the set up of the entire campus network.

The Piercys have two children. Daughter Amanda Klein and husband, Kenan, are expecting their first child in May, and son Justin is studying at Crowder College to be an EMT. Mitch often gives his Boatman boys and IT staff this simple instruction: “Take care of people.” Whether leading his dorm or working on something that “plugs in to the wall,” Mitch Piercy aims to do just that.

When Mitch was chief engineer of KOBC (now K-LOVE), the station was broadcast via this radio tube. Mitch also climbed towers for KOBC and Midwestern Telephone.

Mitch has worked with Joplin’s Stained Glass Theatre for 15 years, serving as the technical director for 6 ½ years.

For 30 years, Mitch has traveled and recorded for Christian Audio Tapes. Since 1988, he has taught in the nursery and run sound at College Heights Christian Church in Joplin— taking care of little people, as well as big.

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COMING SOON Upcoming events at OCC

JANUARY 2016: WELCOME, AARON AND DANIELLE WHEELER

OCC grads Aaron and Danielle Wheeler will serve as this spring’s Visiting Intercultural Professors. Since 2006, the Wheelers have worked in Beijing, China, with English Language Institute China, whose focus is serving and teaching among the educated elite across Asia. Aaron is the China Director of Cultural Relations, providing leadership and vision for ELIC’s eternal purposes. Danielle is founder and editor-inchief for velvetashes.com, an online community encouraging women serving overseas. This semester, Aaron will teach Christianity and Culture, and Danielle will teach Women in Intercultural Life. The Wheelers have three children: Ellie (7), Aiden (5), and Titus (3).

FEBRUARY 22-24: PREACHING-TEACHING CONVENTION Join us for this year’s Preaching-Teaching Convention!

We’re ready for a power-packed, inspirational week. In addition to outstanding main sessions, the convention also includes workshops, children’s sessions, a teen session, class reunions and our President’s Banquet (formerly Alumni Banquet). See page 18 for a complete list of speakers, and register at occ.edu/pt.

APRIL 8-9: WOMEN’S CONFERENCE “Out of Control,” this year’s Women’s Conference at OCC, promises to be an outstanding weekend, with worship by OCC and special guest speaker Jodi Hickerson. Jodi serves as programming director at Mission Church in Ventura, CA. She and her husband, alum Mike Hickerson, have three daughters.

Details and registration info at occ.edu/womensconference.

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COMING SOON Upcoming events at OCC

APRIL 22-23: DEEPER LIFE

APRIL 22-23: OCC PREACHING FESTIVAL

Take your high school students and youth team deeper this spring. Main speakers will be Ozark’s own Director of Preaching Dr. Mark Scott and Executive Vice President Damien Spikereit. Worship will be led by OCC’s Frontline. Details at occ.edu/deeperlife.

In conjunction with the two-day Deeper Life Conference, high school seniors are also invited to participate in the OCC Preaching Festival.

Students must apply in advance, and finalists will be selected to preach a ten-minute sermon at the festival that weekend. Winners are awarded OCC scholarships—up to $5,500 a semester. Details at occ.edu/preachingfestival.

MAY 24-JUNE 2: HOLY LAND TOUR

Want to walk where Jesus walked? Join Dr. Mark and Carla Scott for ten days touring Bethlehem, Nazareth, Galilee, Jericho, and other lands of the Bible. Contemplate the Sermon on the Mount and Christ’s baptism as Dr. Scott teaches from the Mount of Beatitudes and the Jordan River. Details at bit.ly/1ZAOYSZ.

JUNE 6-9/13-16: BRANSON CONFERENCES The 19th annual Senior Adult Conferences will be held in Branson, MO, at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center. Adults 55+ will enjoy a week of fun and fellowship as Dr. Terry Bowland brings “The Really, Really, Really Good News.” There are two sessions of the conference, each beginning Monday evening and concluding late Thursday morning. Details and registration information at occ.edu/sac.

JUNE 12-JULY 6: ATHLETIC CAMPS Every summer, hundreds of students attend sports camps at OCC. Several sessions are available for kids ages third grade through high school. Details and registration information at occ.edu/athletics.

Volleyball: Junior High Girls 1 (entering grades 7-9): July 4-6 Junior High Girls 2 (entering grades 7-9): July 10-13 Basketball: Junior High Girls (entering grades 7-9): June 12-15 Middle School Girls (entering grades 5-6): June 15-17 Junior High Boys (entering grades 6-8): June 19-22 Senior High Boys (entering grades 9-12): June 26-30 Boys and Girls Day Camp (entering grades 3-5): July 4-6

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HERE’S AN IDEA Practical tips for your life and ministry

SHOW THE STORY: USING VIDEO, THE MODERN-DAY PARABLE Dru Ashwell Ever heard the idiom “a picture is worth a thousand words”? The saying has been around Dru Ashwell is Vice President of since the early 1920s, and it means that an image conveys the essence of something more Alumni Relations and editor of The Ambassador. effectively than a written description.1 Today, the saying “a video is worth a million words” is 2 gaining traction.

OCC 2001 graduate, Steve Tarlton, agrees that showing the Gospel, in addition to just telling it, is wise in today’s media-drenched culture. In November 2015, Steve became the video producer on staff with Northview Church in Carmel, IN. Prior to that, Steve had served in California for fourteen years, working with OCC graduates Dudley Rutherford at Shepherd of the Hills Church and Rusty George at Real Life Church.

Steve experienced firsthand the impact that video—visual stories—can have. Church visitors often enter with their arms crossed—wary and perhaps skeptical. But Steve saw how his videos helped people uncross their arms, and how video worked alongside the preached Word, prompting questions in the minds and hearts of people.

Consider adding the element of video to your church service! Combined with sermons that are well-prepared and delivered with passion, videos can serve as a “seed” that God can grow in the hearts of people in our churches.3 Watch a few of Steve’s videos here: vimeo.com/album/3564597.

Getting started:

1

Ask around. “Who in our church is passionate about and gifted in creating videos?” Consider your youth group students! They have grown up using their phones to create videos.

2

Give them ideas. Share what topics you’d like them to create. Don’t forget the power of personal testimonies.

A video of a faithful member’s story could have a huge impact.

3

Get outside help. Peruse the free videos and other ministry resources offered by Life Church, at open.church.

Email me at dashwell@occ.edu for more online resources!

dictionary.com “A minute of video is worth 1.8 million words.” - Dr. James McQuivey, Forrester Research [based on the calculation that a picture is worth 1000 words and video shoots at 30 frames/second which equates to 30,000 words/second times 60 seconds per video equals 1.8 million words per minute. We all would agree that video is worth a lot, but is every video worth 1.8 million words? Absolutely not. A lot depends on the content and the quality of the images and the message.]

3 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 1 2

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Visit campus this semester!

Every high school junior, senior and transfer student who takes a Tuesday Tour will receive a $500 OCC scholarship.

Reserve your place today! occ.edu/tuesdaytour

Tuesday, March 1 (Co-op Emphasis) Tuesday, March 15 Thursday, March 17 Thursday, March 31 Tuesday, April 12 (Co-op Emphasis) Thursday, April 21 Tuesday, May 10 Thursday, May 12

YOUR PARTNERSHIP Helpful tools for Christian stewardship

SPIRITUAL, TECHNICAL OR BOTH? David Duncan “For the Christian, estate planning is first a spiritual act of stewardship before it is the technical act of creating wills and trusts and avoiding taxes and probate.”

David Duncan serves as OCC’s Planned Giving Specialist.

And with this pronouncement, my friend and mentor Ray Lyne proclaimed that an estate plan is so much more important than the legally executed documents. It is, in fact, an opportunity to honor God and to thank Him for entrusting His assets to our care.

So, if you are needing to create or update a plan in 2016, please know that it would be our honor to assist you by sending you two helpful booklets without cost or obligation. The first is the Guide to Planning Your Estate and the second, a companion Confidential Estate Inventory.

We would gladly send them to you in either electronic or print version.

After reviewing these resources, you may also want to take advantage of our Personalized Estate Design Service. When complete, you’ll have a blueprint for an estate plan that will accomplish your stewardship desires—and honor the “owner of all.”

Ready to get started? I look forward to serving you in 2016! You may call 417.437.4774 or email me at duncan.david@occ.edu. And, of course, there is much to be learned at occ.edu/plannedgiving.

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

SEPTEMBER 23-DECEMBER 15, 2015 In Loving Memory: Betty Boles

Ronald Briggs Ruth Bunton Dorothy Carlson Ardis Curd Anna Sneed Curtis Don DeWelt Carlos & Nelda Jeanne Elmore Marvin Flowers Harold (Buddy) Francis

Brian Giebler Clifton H. Healy Anna Mae Hillsman Judy Lewis Marilyn Lewis

Shirley Lyttle

Connie Mieir

H. Dean Price Nancy Ellen Puckett Adam Ransom Harvey Richardson Betty Jo Tudenham Joy Vernon Will Weaver

I.O. & Christine Weede Daniel Wilson

Norma Wilson Charles & Dorothy Wittenborn

In Honor Of:

City/State/Zip Use separate paper for additional names.

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TRIBUTE GIFTS

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Susan Gehrig Baugher Herbert Casteel Doug Welch Woody Wilkinson

Dr. & Mrs. Garland Bare M/M Bob Crockett Mrs. Lenora Briggs M/M Robert S. Lawson M/M Ronald R. West M/M Kenneth Shepard Norma Sneed-Small Estate M/M Bradley E. Neal M/M Richard H. Steckler M/M Scott J. Reed Cassie Adams M/M Donald V. Altheide Laura Cleland-Cross M/M Jerry D. Clines M/M Rick Francis & family Vicki Franklin Mr. John Graves Mrs. Penny Graves M/M Randy Harris M/M Bill Ison M/M Kenneth W. Jenkins M/M Gareld C. McGhee M/M Charles H. Nelson M/M Gene Proctor Marie E. Skillman Mr. Henry W. Sohosky M/M Duane Sprouse Loretta Thomann Sharon A. Thomann M/M Owen R. Wallis M/M Matt G. Giebler M/M Dru Ashwell Margaret June Ellis Susan E. Lewis M/M Grover B. Burks & family Dr. & Mrs. Paul T. Butler Betty Clubb M/M Mark J. Elliff M/M Stephen J. Hunter Mr. Bob A. Lyttle & family M/M Warren D. Pendleton Julie L. Pierce & the children of John Lyttle Paula S. Richardson M/M Larry Catron Mr. William H. Mieir Mrs. Barbara W. Price M/M Dallas W. Puckett M/M James B. Ransom Mrs. Ethel Richardson Park Plaza CC (Joplin) M/M Bert C. Ward Betty Weaver Mrs. Jeanne Weaver M/M Gene Proctor M/M George M. Williams, Jr. Jane, Bryan, Matt & Kevin Wilson M/M Larry Catron M/M David Wittenborn

Mrs. Linda Gehrig M/M Jordan B. Casteel M/M L. Eric Malone M/M Charles E. Slote, Jr.

ALUMNI NEWS Updates from alumni around the world

Nearly 50 OCC alums enjoyed fun, fellowship and teaching by Professor Michael DeFazio at the OCConnect meeting in Springfield, MO, on October 12.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! 2016 ALUMNI SPECIAL EVENTS AT OCC Class Reunions Tuesday, February 23 – 8:45 pm We will celebrate the graduating classes of 1956, 1966, 1976, 1986, 1996 and 2006.

President’s Banquet (formerly Alumni Banquet) Wednesday, February 24 – 4:00 pm RSVP by noon on Tuesday, February 23, at occ.edu/banquet.

ALUMNI PROJECT GOAL: IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO GIVE FOR THE CLASSROOM MAKEOVER PROJECT! Let’s finish strong and complete all of the needed classroom upgrades this year. Will you please consider a generous, monthly gift? You can set up recurring donations at occ.edu/donate. After filling out your contact information, under Category & Funds, select Alumni Fund – Classroom Upgrades, and under Donation Frequency, select Recurring Donation. Thank you for your generous support of this worthy investment!

GOT NEWS? 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 online (occ.edu – Alumni Services page), via email (alumni@occ.edu) or over the phone (417.626.1234 ext. 2100). We even like snail mail! (1111 N. Main, Joplin, MO 64801) We look forward to hearing from you!

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ALUMNI NEWS: CONGRATULATIONS

Reed (05) and Audrey Adams on the arrival of Adele Ilene on October 28 in Canby, OR. Steve (05) and Angie Burns (02) Anderson on the arrival of Micah Scott on August 28 in Joplin.

Evan (09) and Elizabeth Warren (09) Clements on the birth of Emma Noel Joy on December 24 and the arrival of two-year-old Elijah Bonheur, also on December 24. Elijah was born in the Republic of the Congo on June 23, 2013, was adopted in January 2014, and was cleared by the government to come to the U.S. in November. Emma and Elijah join siblings Eden (4) and Ezekiel (2). Evan serves as children’s minister with First CC in Lamar, MO.

Tyler (11) and Lauren Brown (11) Green on the birth of Everett Paul on September 14.

The Greens serve with the Ninth Street CC in Eldon, MO.

Bryce (12) and Kelsey Green (12) Hotchkiss on the arrival of Chandler Dean on October 5 in Pittsburg, KS.

Elijah (14) and Macy Pendleton (13) Dally on the birth of Keller Michael H.P. on January 3 in Joplin. Elijah serves as worship minister with Christ’s Church of Oronogo.

Jared and Ashley Wheat (attended) Delzell on the birth of Caleb David in Joplin on November 19.

Ryan and Keesa Stammer (attended) Dodson on the birth of Leanora Marie on October 17 in St. Louis, MO. Jason (09) and Caitlin Donato on the arrival of Adler Middleton on August 10 in Lincoln, IL, where Jason is the residence director of the men’s dormitory at Lincoln Christian University.

Jesse (06) and Cynthia Walker (04) Frame on the birth of Jonas on December 14 in Fort Myers, FL, where they serve with New Mission Systems International.

Andrew (07) and Katie Cox (03) Hastie on the birth of Raife Moses on October 16 in Marion, IL. David (07) and Amanda Hayward on the arrival of Veronica Jean on August 3 in Yukon, OK.

Jeremiah (attended) and Ruthanna Hunter on the arrival of Jack Nathan on October 17 in Jefferson City, MO.

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Michael and Rebecca Anderson (10) Klobnak on the birth of Malachi Roy on October 23 in Des Moines, IA. The Klobnaks were married on October 25, 2014, and are involved in prison ministry throughout Iowa.

Ryan (11) and Tasha Wallin (11) Hicks on the birth of Cyrus David in Joplin on December 29.

Sy (12) and Monica Lanzone (11) Huffer on the arrival of Geri Jean on January 2. The Huffers minister with Crossroads CC in Newburgh, IN.

Ryan (05) and Melissa Bromley (05) Humphrey on the birth of Isabella Hope on December 19 in Owensboro, KY. Josh and Bethany Barringer (07) Huskey on the arrival of Olivia Mae Nyasha. The Huskeys live in Bethel Heights, AR. Dustin (10) and Chelsea Cassel (08) Hutchinson on the birth of Titus James on May 11 in Manhattan, KS. Charlie (10) and Christine Landis on the birth of Jet Thomas on October 25 in Sellersburg, IN. Tony and Liz Steele (08) Martin on the birth of Cooper Flash on September 30 in Minneapolis, MN. Jim and Courtney Blount (05) Moudy on the birth of Caylee Denae on October 8 in Lubbock, TX. Malachi (16 candidate) and Andrea Hurley (15) Murdock on the arrival of Jonah Travis on November 11 in Joplin.

Jonathan and Kelly Vernon (attended) Parfitt on the arrival of Addison Kate on October 21.

She arrived twelve weeks early, and after weeks in the NICU, she came home just before Christmas.

The Parfitts live in Fresno, CA. Andy (07) and Jenny Zauche (08) Rodriguez on the birth of Amos Drew on October 5 in Nagoya, Japan, where they serve with Mustard Seed CC. Tim and Rachel Charley (05) Sanderson on the arrival of Alyssa Jae on October 28 in Kearney, NE. Casey (99) and Debbe Andrews (00) Scott on the birth of Ezra Jonathan on November 27 in Charleston, IL.

ALUMNI NEWS: CONGRATULATIONS CLASS NOTES

1950s

Joel (06) and Amanda Stetler on the birth of Drake Gaston on July 22 in Denver, CO.

Chaz (13) and Chelsea Rusaw (13) Robbins on the birth of Olivia Grace on October 26 in Chicago, IL. They serve with Parkview CC in Orland Park.

Adam and Jill Davis (06) Winkler on the birth of Logan Davis on March 6 in Joplin.

Matt (08) and Emily Hatfield (08) Stieger on the birth of Jackson Mark on November 7 in Macon, MO. Evan (attended) and Kourtney Strickland on the birth of Koraline Evangeline on November 13 in Memphis, TN. James (11) and Jamey McElravy (attended) Tenorio on the birth of Joshua Nikolai on October 23 in Dallas, TX. Brian (95) and Kim Peterson (93) Williams on the arrival of Maeve Amaris Dawn on October 26 in Oxford, England.

OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY Randy Allison (attended) lost a courageous battle with cancer on December 13.

Remember his wife, Donna (72), and her family as they adjust to life without Randy.

After several years of poor health, Gary Birney (90) passed away on December 27 in Sedgwick, KS. Continue to lift up his wife, Tammi, and family during this time of loss.

Lee Todd (59) and his wife, Wanda, celebrated 60 years in ministry, having served the Concord CC in Crocker, MO, for most of those years.

1960s Dale Heimer (64/66) has just completed 50 years preaching in the local church—ten years in McCook, NE, and the remainder in Maywood, NE. Rose Ann Tyler Dunson (68) retired as the children’s ministry director with Highland Park CC in Tulsa, OK, after 20 years of service.

Tom (69) and Barbara Colaw (69) Tucker have served in campus ministry with Campus Christian Fellowship at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, OK, for 45+ years. In 2016, Tom will start a new role with a focus on family ministry and young parents.

1970s After 48 years, Philip Wilson (70-M) has retired from the preaching ministry, closing a 17 ½-year ministry with First CC in Eureka Springs, AR.

Patsy Lukrofka Koerner (57) passed away on July 13 in Defiance, OH. Please remember her family in prayer as they mourn her passing.

Lee Paul Manning (attended) suffered a fatal heart attack on December 19 in Joplin. Please lift up his family in prayer as they deal with his sudden passing.

Gwen Gardner Stone (58) passed away on December 18 from complications of a heart attack. Please lift up her husband, Sam (58), and his family at this difficult time.

Sam Sweeney (55/56) passed away in Pearsall, TX, on October 2. Continue to remember his wife, Janet, in your prayers as she grieves the loss of her husband of 51 years.

Remember the family of Will Weaver (65), who passed away in Bossier City, LA, on September 6.

On November 29, David (71) and Rose Ann Tyler Dunson celebrated 25 years of ministry with the Highland Park CC in Tulsa, OK. David continues to serve this congregation as pastoral care minister.

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ALUMNI NEWS: CLASS NOTES

1970s continued

1990s Randy Wilson (71) was recently given the Distinguished Citizen Award for 2015 by the Webb City Chamber of Commerce, Webb City, MO. Randy and his wife, Carrie Smith (attended), live in Webb City, and he continues to work part-time with MasonWoodard Mortuary in Joplin.

Linda Hamon Mills-Low (72) and Buc Eckhart were married on December 8 in Great Falls, MT.

Matt (94) and Lynda Hahn (attended) Bortmess have announced plans to relocate to Council Bluffs, IA, where he will serve as executive pastor with First CC. Keith Mackey (93) recently accepted an associate pastor position with the Spring Creek Fellowship in Springdale, AR. Keith will serve in the area of pastoral care and visitation.

Wade Landers (95/part-time faculty) earned a master’s degree in Intercultural Studies from Biola University on December 18. Wade serves as Global Outreach minister with College Heights CC in Joplin.

Tim McMillan (98) has left a ministry in Rogersville, MO, to become preaching minister of the Christian Church in Marianna, AR.

After 13 years at Canyon Ridge CC in Las Vegas, NV, Steve (75-M) and Debbie Smith (75-M) Thomas have moved to Manchester, IA. They will split their time between Steve’s role as family pastor for the Cornerstone Community Church, and International Resource Directors for Open Door Libraries in Eastern Europe.

Casey Scott (99) has closed a ministry in Mattoon, IL, to become the preaching minister with the Chapel Rock CC in Indianapolis, IN. This transition will take place over the coming year.

Over the next year, Fred Rodkey (76) will transition from senior minister to a new position, focus to be determined, on the staff of Chapel Rock CC in Indianapolis, IN.

Sergio Rizo (03) earned a master’s degree in Business Administration from Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN, last December. Sergio works at Vanderbilt University in Nashville. His wife, Jackie Ardle (03), is a stay-at-home mom to their four children.

Susan Mettetal (77) resigned after ten+ years as children’s minister at Christ’s Church of the Valley in Bakersfield, CA, in June. She is now serving as children’s minister at Cedar Grove Baptist Church in Leeds, AL.

1980s David Moscrip recently celebrated 17 years as music minister with King of Glory Church in Carmel, IN, and 10 years as senior counselor at St. Vincent Stress Center.

Kevin Dooley (85) has accepted the chief development officer position with Central India Christian Mission. Kevin continues to direct Global Marketplace Initiatives. Kevin and Kim Sinclair (attended) live in Avon, IN. Contact Kevin at KDooley@IndiaMission.org.

Vonda Bland Hamilton (88) earned a Master of Ministry with a concentration in Intercultural Studies from Hope International University in Fullerton, CA. Vonda and her family continue to lead Hands of Love Ministry in Bonham, TX.

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2000s

Ryan (05) and Jill Stahly (02) Dodd are now living in Broken Arrow, OK, and serving Frontiers Missions as stateside representatives in mobilizing more workers for the world.

Best wishes to Abby DeWelt (07), who earned a Master of Business Administration from Hope International University in Fullerton, CA, on December 12. Abby continues to live in Joplin, where she works at Leggett & Platt in the area of employee relations.

Daniel McCoy (07) earned his Ph.D. in Theology from NorthWest University (South Africa) on October 16. He ministers with the Ambassador CC in Chanute, KS, and also teaches online classes for Ozark.

Kevin (08) and Kendra Lake (08) Berry are living in Sedgwick, KS, where he serves as senior minister of the First CC.

ALUMNI NEWS: CLASS NOTES

2000s continued Congratulations to Derek Lahm (08), who was selected as the 2015 New Principal of the Year by the Nebraska Association of Secondary School Principals. Derek serves as principal of the Lyons-Decatur Northwest School in Lyons, NE. Caleb (09) and Christine Roberts (09) Phillips are living in Lane, IL, where he serves as youth minister with the Lane CC. Lance Schaubert (09/11) is serving as minister of the East Northport CC on Long Island, NY, and Tara Balu (09/former staff ) is working as a nanny.

Cody Stinnett (11) is serving as senior pastor of the Vermont CC in Vermont, IL. Jeremy Congdon (11) concluded his ministry in Colorado to become student minister with the Southland CC-Danville in Danville, KY. Austin Scott (12) and Vivian Burton were married on December 12 in LaCenter, KY, where he serves as preaching minister.

Tricia Halter (13) recently spent two weeks on a mission trip in Southeast Asia, and has relocated to Phoenix, AZ, to begin training with GoTEN (Go To Every Nation). She will work to build a team to plant churches overseas.

Mitchell Peek (14) is serving as a student/para-educator with the Church of God (Revolution Church) in Wichita, KS. Jonathan Dunham (14) is currently serving as worship minister with the Bethany CC in Washington, IN. Rebekah Moyers (14) and Luke Proctor (current student) were married in Fort Scott, KS, on January 9. They will make their home in Joplin and minister at Sheldon CC in Sheldon, MO. On December 12, Bethany Decker Sutherlin (14) earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education/K-12 with emphasis in Special Education from Missouri Southern State University.

Grace Kimpel (15) and Blake Cowan (attended) were married in Joplin on December 11, and are making their home in Glendale, CA. Evan Kornosky (15) and Emeri Eaton were married on January 9 in Oronogo, MO, and will make their home in Joplin.

Allison Scott (15) and Matthew McBirth (current student) were married in Joplin on January 23. They will make their home in Webb City while he finishes classes at Ozark.

Dalton Walker (15) is serving as senior minister of Christ’s CC in Urich, MO. Megan Dotson (16) earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Language Arts from Missouri Southern State University in Joplin on December 12.

ATTENDED: Jason and Amanda Kenyon Adams are living in Julesburg, CO, where he teaches social studies and is head women’s basketball coach at Julesburg High School, and she is head junior high and high school volleyball coach.

Randy Burghart graduated from Central Oklahoma State University last December with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a certification in Middle School Science. He is teaching sixth grade in Mustang, OK. Mitch Gillispie and Gabriella Gonzalez were married on December 12 and are making their home in Joplin.

John and Lori Hall (02) Hancock have resigned their ministry with Camp Sooner in Tecumseh, OK, to become camp directors at High Hill Christian Camp and Retreat Center near St. Louis, MO. Hannah Johnson earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with a major in Language Arts from Missouri Southern State University on December 12.

Jeff and Robin Brennfoerder Johnston are living in Taiwan, serving as missionaries for a sports and recreation ministry with One Challenge International and Sports Ambassadors.

Karissa Lieb and Austin Ellerman were married on December 19 in Joplin. They are making their home in Brookville, IN. Carissa Lowe and Brad Philippe were married on January 9.

TO CONNECT

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ALUMNI NEWS: CLASS NOTES

ATTENDED continued Michael Munoz and Jenna Hildebrand (current student) were married on November 21.

Congratulations to Stan and Arla Parkison (former staff ), who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on November 28 in Webb City, MO. Ben Rasmussen earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Missouri Southern State University on December 12.

ARTICLES Christian Standard

The Lookout

November

November 8

“Mobilize and Accelerate” by Mike Schrage (attended)

“What About Hell?” by Victor Knowles (former faculty)

December “Beyond Information” by Dr. Tom Lawson (75/current faculty) “The Gospel in Minor Key”

by Dr. Mark Scott (76/ current faculty) January

BOOKS Brokenness . . . a New Beginning

by David Moscrip (91). Available at createspace.com/5595448.

“Parents Are Primary” by Peter Buckland (current faculty) “Equipping Parents to Lead Their Family” by Brian Jennings (98) “Looking Back at ICOM 2015” by Rick Jett (78)

The Alter-Imperial Paradigm: Empire Studies & the Book of Revelation by Shane J. Wood, Ph.D. (04/current faculty) Published by Brill.

“What Does God Say About Children?” by Dr. Teresa Welch (94/current faculty)

November 29 “When God Has Your Money: Four Signs Your Heart Is in the Right Place” by Lindsey Poznich Bell (06) December 27 “How to Have Childlike Faith in the New Year”

by Lindsey Poznich Bell (06) January 10 “Unclean” by Tyler Edwards (07) January 17 “Jesus Confronted the Religious Leaders” by Dr. H. Lynn Gardner (61/ former faculty) January 24 “The Hard Teachings of Jesus” by Lindsey Poznich Bell (06)

Request for Third Party Comments: Ozark Christian College has initiated the process of seeking candidate status with the Higher Learning Commission. Ozark Christian College currently holds no status with the Higher Learning Commission. The Commission will conduct a comprehensive evaluation on April 4-5, 2016, to determine whether Ozark Christian College should be awarded candidacy. The team’s recommendation is subject to additional levels of Commission review and decision-making. Therefore, no further information will be provided until the Commission’s Board of Trustees makes a final decision on the award of candidacy. The award of candidacy does not assure the eventual award of accreditation.

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TO CONNECT

The public is invited to submit comments regarding the college: Public Comment on Ozark Christian College The Higher Learning Commission 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500 Chicago, IL 60604-1411 The public may also submit comments on the Commission’s website at hlcommission.org/HLC-Institutions/third-party-comment.

Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs. Comments must be in writing. All comments must be received by March 3, 2016.

For more information, visit occ.edu/hlc.

WANT TO BE THE

DIFFERENCE? BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER LIKE MARK AND CONNIE AT OCC.EDU/DONATE.

“Our time at OCC was the starting point of a major life transition that began for our family in 1997. In my years as a student, Ozark taught me how to think about the Bible, theology, and God’s design for life and relationships.

My education at OCC helped form the

foundation of our present counseling and recovery ministry. Connie and I established lifelong friendships and a sense of home in Joplin. Since completing my education, I have worked for and directed a non-profit counseling center in Lubbock, Texas, and more recently we’ve started our

own therapy practice with our son.

We give to the general fund at OCC to help provide a similar foundation to others who feel called to ministry.”

-MARK AND CONNIE WHITE OCC.EDU/THEDIFFERENCE

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Joplin, MO 64801 Permit No. 62

1111 N Main St Joplin, MO 64801

Change service requested

ONE MORE THING A final thought from our assistant editor Amy Storms is a wife, mother, Strong Hall dorm mom, and Coordinator of Community Relations at OCC.

HANG ON! A NOTEWORTHY REMINDER

Amy Storms My three kids are note-takers, who

learned from their note-taker mama.

We’ve never met a Post-it we didn’t like, and, even on the oddest of occasions, we’re each quick to pull out a pen and yell, “Hang on! I gotta write that down!”

When my son was young, something our minister said at church prompted a “noteworthy” moment for him. All at once, Nathan grabbed a 3x5 card from my purse, and, in his best pre-cursive penmanship, he printed these words: Reminder: people go to heaven if they believe!—Not just good.

Noteworthy, indeed!

The part of Nathan that inspires him to make index card reminders? He inherited that from me. The part of him that wants to please God by being “good”? He gets Isaiah 64:6 Romans 4:23-24 3 Ephesians 2:8-9 4 Hebrews 11:6 5 John 3:16 1 2

that from me, too. But in that moment, Nathan’s heart heard that our salvation is not based on our work or goodness, but on Christ’s. That while obedience demonstrates a transformed life, it doesn’t earn one. That all our righteous acts are like filthy rags,1 and that—reminder!— God wants the same thing from us that He credited to Abraham as righteousness: faith.2 The apostle Paul sent a similar reminder to the church in Ephesus…although he wrote on papyrus, and not an index card: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith,” Paul said, “—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”3

Perhaps we could use another reminder today—a reminder that hard work and impressive acts and a calendar chockfull of church events aren’t what pleases God. Our service and ministry aren’t our identity and worth to Him, and they aren’t what He desires most. Maybe, even though our minds know it well, our hearts could stand to hear again that our God is pleased by our faith.4 Hang on! I gotta write that down.

The story of the gospel is this: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”5 Reminder: people go to heaven if they believe!—Not just good.

Noteworthy, indeed!