the
ambassador
the magazine of ozark christian college
S R O D A S S A B M A S ’ T S I R H C WE ARE WINTER 2019 HONORING GOD WITH ATHLETICS When sports are a classroom, platform, and sanctuary p. 5 JEN MOYERS “How you do one thing is how you do everything.” p. 10 THREE QUESTIONS Q&A with Athletic Director Chris Lahm p. 7
OCC.EDU
CONTENTS TO INSPIRE President’s Perspective Matt Proctor
Representing a higher authority, on and off the court.
Featured Theme Matt Proctor
Can athletics honor God?
Three Questions
Athletic Director Chris Lahm’s “more than winning” philosophy
Ambassadors in Training
Students today, alumni tomorrow, Ambassadors forever
Bible Words Jon Kehrer
An in-depth look at the language of Scripture
Ambassador Spotlight: Jen Moyers Amy Storms
How one Ozark alum ministers through basketball
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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 staff member, Sarah Rhodes
Coming Soon
Upcoming events at OCC
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TO CONNECT Here’s an Idea
Incorporating sports in your student ministry
Your Partnership Doug Miller
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 four times each year to inspire, inform, and connect the Ozark Christian College family. Design: Lauren White Creative
Contributing Editors: Kathy Bowers, Matt Proctor, Amy Storms
Contributing Photographers: AP Images, Mark Neuenschwander, Plumlee Photography 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
I AM AN AMBASSADOR Matt Proctor Not Just a Tattoo
Carson Wentz represents. The Pro Bowl quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles, Wentz has seen great success on the football field. He won two national championships in college, sports a Super Bowl ring, and when he runs onto the field, seventy thousand Philly fans roar. But tattooed on his right wrist are two letters and a number—AO1— that declare who he’s really playing for. AO1 stands for “Audience of One,” and Carson explains, “At the end of the day, we’re not playing for the fans, we’re not playing for the media. We are playing to please the Lord.” 1 Since giving his life to Christ in college, Wentz has actively shared his faith in magazine articles, radio interviews, on his cleats, in churches, and on mission trips to Haiti. (On one trip, he met Maddie Oberg, an OCC alum working in a Carson and Maddie (Oberg) Wentz Haitian mission, and now they serve Christ together as husband and wife.) Though some criticize his outspoken Christianity, Wentz is not deterred. “The NFL is a big stage. I have a lot of eyes on me. I want to do my best to take the eyes off me and redirect them toward Jesus.” 2 An ambassador represents a higher authority, and Carson Wentz knows: he is an ambassador for Christ.
Not Just a Jersey
Division II national championship in cross country—the first NCCAA champion in OCC history. “[Olympic runner] Steve Prefontaine said, ‘To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift,’” quotes Elijah. “‘That God has given’ is my own little Elijah Connatser, OCC’s first add-on. You do your best NCCAA champion because God gave you this talent, and when you use it, you are giving it back to him.” He says with a laugh, “Coach Butler always says, ‘If you walk in my jersey, I’ll rip it off.’ We run hard in those Ozark Christian College jerseys because we’re not just running for Ozark. We’re running for Christ.” An ambassador represents a higher authority, and Elijah Connatser knows: he is an ambassador for Christ.
Not Just a Mascot
I represent. Confession: when I enrolled at OCC at age 18, I didn’t like our mascot. Tigers, Hawks, Warriors—any of these teams would have been easy to cheer for, but an “ambassador” didn’t seem very fierce. Ambassadors bargain with other nations, so what was I supposed to holler at basketball games? “Go, Ambassadors! Work out a compromise!” I imagined the cheerleaders: “Two! Four! Six! Eight! What can we negotiate?” Our mascot didn’t seem inspiring. But over the years, I’ve learned better. 2 Corinthians 5:20 says, “We are Christ’s ambassadors.” An ambassador represents a higher authority, and we want every student-athlete at Ozark— indeed, every student—to know who they represent. They are a walking advertisement for Jesus, a constant commercial for Christ, and their lives must always point to him. As one of our coaches likes to say, “Students today, alumni tomorrow, Ambassadors forever.” In this issue of The Ambassador, we’re focusing on OCC’s athletic program, and I love it that our sports teams bear that name. I can think of no better lifetime label for Ozark alumni, and thirty years after enrolling at OCC, I now wear that word with a sense of gratitude, responsibility, and pride. I am an Ambassador.
Elijah Connatser represents. When Elijah got in trouble as a kid, his parents’ discipline was exercise: “Go run around the block.” Eventually, the tactic lost its effectiveness because Elijah took to running like a fish to water. His punishment became his passion. A standout high school cross country runner, he chose to continue his athletic career at OCC. In November, as a freshman, Elijah won the NCCAA
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1 2
Maaddi, Rob. Birds of Pray, Zondervan, 2018, pp. 47-51. Ibid.
Matt Proctor has served as president of Ozark Christian College since 2006.
FEATURED THEME Matt Holliday hit a farewell home run for the St. Louis Cardinals
Matt Proctor has served as president of Ozark Christian College since 2006.
WHEN STADIUMS BECOME SANCTUARIES Matt Proctor
I’ll never forget September 30, 2016. As St. Louis Cardinals fans, my boys and I hated the rumors that the Cards were letting Matt Holliday go. The seven-time All-Star was one of our favorites—for his on-field heroics and his quiet Christian faith. As the regular season came to a close, Holliday sat on the disabled list, and we were disappointed we’d never see him take another swing in the birds-on-the-bat jersey. We weren’t the only ones disappointed. Matt’s wife Leslee is an online student at Ozark Christian College. In one class assignment, she shared her family’s grief at the sudden end to their time in St. Louis…and what happened in Matt’s one last unexpected at-bat: My husband was told the Cardinals were not going to pick up his option. In other words, he was fired from his job. The conversation was quick, and it ripped his heart out. There was no appreciation from his boss for what he had done over the eight years he had worn that uniform. Just a thirty-second conversation informing him he would no longer be part of the team. The Cardinals manager wanted Matt to have a final at-bat with the team he loved, but Matt was hesitant. He had a broken hand, and we were experiencing a lot of emotions. I was worried he was going to get re-injured or be embarrassed. I was wrong. The Lord had a different story in mind. My guy walked up to the plate with tears rolling down his face…and hit a home run. With a broken hand and a broken heart.
I watched him run around those bases with my jaw on the ground, and I was overwhelmed by the graciousness of our Father. Matt had hit hundreds of home runs in his life, but this one was different. We didn’t want to move. We didn’t want to meet new people. We were comfortable. But this moment allowed our family to gently close a door we didn’t want to close. I saw the impossible—a broken-hand home run—and I knew it was our Father’s provision. It was a storybook ending, and on September 30, 2016, my boys and I marveled at Matt’s prowess. But the Hollidays marveled at God’s provision. The home run was a wink from heaven, reminding them of God’s care, and while the St. Louis fans praised Matt, the Hollidays praised the Lord. For a moment, a baseball stadium became a sanctuary.
Are Sports a Blessing or a Curse?
I have always loved sports. I’m inspired by athletes like surfer Bethany Hamilton who lost an arm to a shark attack, but battled her way back to become a champion. I’m moved by the Waverly, Ohio high school football team allowing mentally handicapped opponent Jake Porter to score a touchdown untouched in his last game as a senior. Sports provided great childhood memories: my game-winning hit in the Little League championship, watching football every Thanksgiving at my grandparents’ house, hundreds of one-onone basketball games with my brothers. Now as a father of six, I’ve made new memories—watching my kids give their all in baseball, football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, and gymnastics. (Did I mention we have six kids?)
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But I’ve seen the dark side of athletics. We live in a footballcrazy town—fourteen state championships—and at one of my son’s football games, I sat behind a lady yelling at the refs. The back of her shirt read, “Football is not life or death. It’s much more serious than that.” Our culture spends billions of dollars on sporting events, makes heroes out of selfish athletes, and pushes kids to win at all costs. In a fallen world, sports have been corrupted, and it’s fair to ask: are they a tool of the devil? Or can athletics be redeemed? 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” As a Christian college with a varsity sports program, we believe athletics can honor God in at least three ways:
Sports Can Become a Platform
Sports provide a highly visible platform for Christian testimony. Whenever a crowd gathered in the book of Acts, a believer would “grab the microphone” to talk about Jesus—Peter in Acts 3 after the lame man’s healing, Stephen in Acts 7 before the Sanhedrin, even Paul in Acts 19 trying to preach to the crowd trying to kill him! The principle: when a lot of people are paying attention to you, point to Jesus. That’s why I appreciate high profile athletes like Carson Wentz, Allyson Felix, and Tim Tebow who publicly honor the Lord. But it’s not just famous people. God uses athletes and coaches at every level as his witnesses. When you see Dudley Rutherford’s lanky 6’5” frame, it’s no surprise he was Ozark’s first basketball All-American in 1979. Sports Can Become a Classroom As senior pastor of Shepherd Church near Los Angeles, Dudley I think the apostle Paul was a sports fan. (If he were alive preaches to folks from all walks of life, but as an athlete, Dudley today, would his NFL team be the Saints and his baseball team connects well with sports figures. the Angels?) Paul often used athletics You might catch him with NBA as a metaphor for the life of faith. All-Star Paul George in the church • The Christian life is a race, gym, performing the wedding of requiring perseverance (2 Tim professional soccer player Lauren 4:7). Holiday, or speaking at the funeral of As G.K. Chesterton wrote, • The exertion of prayer resembles legendary coach John Wooden. You the exertion of wrestling (Col might find him leading a Bible study “You say grace before meals. 4:12). for world champion boxer Manny All right. But I say grace before Pacquiao—who committed himself to • Spiritual discipline is like sketching, painting, swimming, Christ after hearing one of Dudley’s boxing (1 Cor 9:26). fencing, boxing, walking, sermons. Or you might see him • The church’s teamwork is called coaching his kids’ basketball teams. playing, and dancing.” sunathleo, meaning “to compete Whether he’s with professional together as athletes” (Phil 1:27). athletes or junior high girls in an Sports are filled with valuable faith old basketball gym, Dudley uses lessons. As football linemen, my his athletic background to live his boys learned accountability for their personal motto—“Lift Up Jesus”—and blocking assignments—when they when sports become a platform, it glorifies God. don’t fulfill their responsibility, their quarterback gets sacked! Running cross country in high school taught me perseverance in a visceral, physical way. As an OCC volleyball player, my daughter Clara wrestled with a new assignment this year—moving from starter to sub. She fought through initial discouragement to cheer on her teammates, but when disunity threatened the team late in the season, she found her most important role. Clara’s my quiet kid, but she texted her teammates to an impromptu prayer gathering, helping the girls reconnect with each other and the Lord. They finished the season strong, and this dad was proud when her teammates chose Clara for the Spiritual Leadership Award. Sports can teach Christian virtues like leadership, unity, discipline, self-control, perseverance, respect, responsibility, and humility, and when athletics becomes a classroom, it glorifies God.
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Sports Can Become a Sanctuary
Our physical bodies are gifts from God. An automotive engineer is honored when a car he created is pushed to its fullest capacity, and God is honored when we discover all that these bodily gifts he created can do. Sports, then, are an opportunity to delight in God’s goodness: the satisfaction when the baseball hits the sweet spot on the bat, the endorphin rush when a runner guts her way through “the wall,” the dazzling hand-eye coordination of a behind-theback basketball pass on the fast break. When we realize these are gifts from God, our hearts are moved to gratitude. As G.K. Chesterton wrote, “You say grace before meals. All right. But I say grace before sketching, painting, swimming, fencing, boxing, walking, playing, and dancing.”
After coaching at the University of Nebraska, Kearney and Nebraska Christian College, Chris Lahm is now in his seventeenth year at OCC, serving as athletic director and men’s basketball coach.
THREE QUESTIONS WITH CHRIS LAHM What is your coaching philosophy? Evan Hand took Colossians 3:23 to heart as he played
Now a children’s minister, former OCC basketball player Evan Hand played with passion and a childlike delight in the game. “Coach Lahm impressed on us Colossians 3:23, ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as for the Lord,’ says Hand. “I took that to heart, and I think that’s why, in my final tournament my senior year at Ozark, a ref came up to me afterward and said, ‘Thank you for playing with such joy.’” When a sporting event becomes a worship service, that glorifies God.
A Final Story
Our family has an Easter tradition. After church and family dinner, my wife’s big farming family heads to the front yard, and the annual Easter baseball game begins. I am the all-time pitcher, and in the cool spring air, we have four generations out there—laughing, running, hitting the ball. The bright sunshine, the feel of glove leather, the smell of freshly-cut grass, the crack of the bat, the smile on the sixyear-old’s face when he gets his first outfield hit in the family baseball game—the joy of those moments is hard to describe. I will carry those memories to my grave. That annual game has been a gift to our family, a wink from heaven. We will never play on Matt Holliday’s level, but our gratitude for God’s goodness is no less than his on September 30, 2016. Every Easter, in the front yard of a Missouri farmhouse, surrounded by ice-cream-bucket-lid bases, I sock my fist into the webbing of my glove, and I give thanks. And for just a moment, a baseball diamond becomes a sanctuary.
At the state university, the pressure to win outweighed the relationships with the student-athletes. I like coaching at the Bible college level so I can get to know the athletes and encourage them in their ministries. Our motto is “More Than Winning,” and Colossians 3:23 is a guiding directive: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as for the Lord.”
What is your greatest joy in coaching?
Seeing the successes of former studentathletes. I think of guys in vocational ministry like Travis Roberts (09, The District Church in Wichita) and Michael Stephens (09, Christ’s Church of the Valley in Phoenix). But I also think of Paden Bennett (12) and Steven Tackett (12), teaching and coaching in the public schools. Those guys are shining their light for Christ.
What is your greatest challenge in coaching?
Recruiting. We’re not just looking for good athletes, but for athletes who fit our mission as a Bible college. We’ve never produced any professional athletes, so if you want a career in sports, we’re not the place. But if you want to play hard, have a great time, and prepare for ministry, bring your talents to OCC. Interested in playing for the Ambassadors? Find out more at occ.edu/athquest.
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AMBASSADORS IN TRAINING In the classroom and on their field of play, OCC athletes train for Christian service, always using their talents for the glory of God. How many of these Ambassadors do you recognize?
BIBLE WORDS P
BIBLE WORDS
PEACE Jon Kehrer
After a commissioning by one of God’s prophets, the commander-turnedinsurrectionist Jehu makes a beeline toward his former boss, King Joram. Concerned by Jehu’s erratic driving, Joram, the wicked son of Ahab and Jezebel, rides out to meet him, asking, “Is it peace, Jehu?” Jehu answers, “What peace is possible while your mother’s evil practices continue?” (2 Ki 9:22) Those are the last words Joram hears before Jehu shoots an arrow through his heart. A messenger’s words can change everything. They can bring news of life (Gen 43:27) or death (1 Sam 4:17-18). Unsurprisingly, one of the most common ways to inquire of a messenger in the Old Testament was to ask this question: “Is it peace?” (Gen 29:6, 2 Sam 18:32, 20:9, 1 Ki 4:26, 9:11, 17-18, 31) The word for “peace” in Hebrew is šalôm (sha-LOME). It is a word that
Find more word studies at occ.edu/biblewords.
can characterize a state of well-being, wholeness, and completeness—the feeling that all is right with the world. Speaking to a lost and hopeless people, Isaiah describes a future in which God is no longer angry with them (57:16), healing them even though they don’t deserve it (57:18). This life-changing message is then declared: “Peace, peace!” (57:19) The messenger proclaims a whole, complete at-rest-ness that will characterize a sinful people now forgiven. Paul says it this way in 2 Corinthians: God has reconciled the world to himself through Christ (5:19)! Yet for us who are saved, we are given the ministry of reconciliation (5:18). The task of proclaiming God’s šalôm falls on us, the ambassadors of the King (5:20). The world around us longs to know, “Is it peace?” Our message of šalôm changes everything.
Jon Kehrer teaches Hebrew, Old Testament, and hermeneutics at OCC.
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AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: JEN MOYERS
JEN MOYERS:
MAKING A ROCKY MOUNTAIN IMPACT
Amy Storms “The way you do one thing is the way you do everything.” compared to my experience at a large, secular university. I truly loved every minute and have too many names to mention It’s an axiom that makes a lot of sense. In life, in ministry, in of people who were impactful to me. Jenny relationships and careers…good character or Matheny and Damien and Stacey Spikereit integrity in one area flows into every other were close friends, and I made lifelong area. In the same way, selfishness, laziness, memories with Coach Charlie Williams and pride, or deceit—even hidden in secret— the basketball team those three years.” comes to light sooner or later to affect every aspect of life. In March of 1996, Jen led the Lady Ambassadors to the NCCAA Division II “The way you do one thing is the way you do Women’s National Tournament, where the everything.” team finished third. Jen was named AllThat saying is one of the mottoes of American—the first from OCC to receive Rocky Mountain Hoops, a competitive girls’ such an honor in women’s basketball in basketball club in Longmont, Colorado, NCCAA Division II. That season, Jen led by Ozark alum Jen (Leeder) Moyers. A averaged 21.7 points per game. At nationals, minister’s wife, mom of four, and director she set a tournament record, making 13 free of both Rocky Mountain Hoops and Rocky throws in a row in the last game. Mountain Youth Basketball and Cheer, Jen “My time at OCC was pivotal in that it does much more than one thing. But, taking really cemented who I am,” she says. “Ozark Colossians 3:23 as direction for her life and Jen (Leeder) Moyers with former OCC was incredibly encouraging of my gifts and ministry, the way Jen does one thing is the Athletic Director Charlie Williams talents, and laid a foundation upon which to way she does everything: “as working for the 1996 continue building.” Lord.”
From Oregon to Ozark
Raised in Hillsboro, Oregon, Jen attended Portland State University to play basketball in college. “I grew up in a large, vibrant church in Oregon,” she says, “and I came to Christ when I was young. I had a community of people who poured into my life through church and sports.” Her sophomore year, Jen transferred to OCC and played for the Lady Ambassadors from 1994-1996. “I fell in love with the Ozark community immediately,
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Rocky Mountain Impact
Since their time at OCC, Jen and her husband, Shan, have served in Monmouth, Oregon; Florissant, Missouri; and Longmont, Colorado. Jen earned her Master of Arts in Teaching and taught before focusing on basketball full-time. Shan (OCC 93-95) is the lead pastor of Rocky Mountain Christian Church and he will preach at a Tuesday main session of the Preaching-Teaching Convention in February. Currently, Jen serves two separate roles in sports ministry: she leads Rocky Mountain Youth Basketball and Cheer for
Rocky Mountain Christian Church, a community recreational basketball and cheer program with 550 kids each winter and basketball camps for 250 kids each summer. Jen also runs a year-round competitive girls’ basketball club, Rocky Mountain Hoops. This year, she has seventy girls and eight coaches in the program. “The core of our ministry at Rocky Mountain Hoops is to train up leaders who will be difference-makers in their schools and communities,” she says. “We do this by teaching them to be really good at the game of basketball, but also by teaching them the lifelong leadership lessons of hard work and mental toughness.” In other words, Jen teaches her young ladies that, in everything they do, whether on or off the court, “the way you do one thing is the way you do everything.” Most importantly, Rocky Mountain Hoops is also an opportunity to share the gospel. “We want to teach kids the fundamentals of basketball and cheer, make incredible memories, and create opportunities for kids and families to bump into Jesus.” That mission is impacting eternity.
“You made my dad find Jesus…”
“Last Sunday, I was late getting into the church auditorium because of all of the people I wanted to say hi to along the way,” Jen says. “It was stunning to realize that every person I ran into was connected to our church through basketball. This ministry has created a community of people who are doing life together.” A Rocky Mountain Hoops sixth grader wrote these words to Jen: You’ve guided not just me, but also many others into a good direction. You’ve made us see what’s wrong and what’s right. You’ve not just changed my life through basketball, but also changed my life outside of basketball, and for that I’m entirely grateful. I mean, just think: you made my dad find Jesus! I can’t explain how thankful I am, and I can’t explain how it has impacted my life.
“Whatever you do,” wrote the apostle Paul to the Colossians, “work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Col 3:23) On the court and off, to players and parents alike, the way Jen Moyers does one thing is the way she does everything. As a result, lives are changing, the kingdom is growing, and dads of sixth graders are finding Jesus...because one Ambassador is working for the Lord with all her heart, knowing it’s the Lord Christ she serves.
You’ve not just changed my life through basketball, but also changed my life outside of basketball, and for that I’m entirely grateful. I mean, just think: you made my dad find Jesus! I can’t explain how thankful I am, and I can’t explain how it has impacted my life.
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CAMPUS NEWS
A Christmas Carol: The Musical
This year’s Christmas production, A Christmas Carol: The Musical, was a great success, with nearly 3,000 guests attending six performances in the OCC chapel. In all, 87 people comprised the cast and crew. OCC grad Garrett Holle (17) directed the musical, and Dr. Karl Wendt performed the role of Ebenezer Scrooge. OCC presented the musical together with Joplin’s Stained Glass Theatre.
Alumni Phonathon: Missions Building Expansion
October’s Alumni Phonathon was a big success, with alumni and 13 student callers raising $57,487 toward our Missions Building Expansion—around 13% of the total cost of the project. The phonathon was a great chance for students and alumni to encourage one another. Thank you to everyone who gave! We’re grateful for your partnership in the mission of OCC.
Every Thought Captive Podcast Join the conversation with Michael DeFazio, Chad Ragsdale, and Doug Welch on their podcast, Every Thought Captive. Subscribe on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Stitcher.
NextLevel Online and Webinars
Free video resources for you and your church. And, watch OCC social media for upcoming NextLevel webinars. occ.edu/nextlevel
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CAMPUS NEWS
Congratulations, Athletes
In November, the OCC men’s and women’s cross country teams competed in the NCCAA Division II National Tournament at College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri. The women’s team placed fourth overall, and the men’s team placed second. Freshman Elijah Connatser won individual national champion. OCC cross country is coached by Jeremy Butler. Several Ambassadors were also honored this fall in women’s volleyball and men’s soccer, too. Stacia Wallace was named 2nd Team All-Region for NCCAA, 1st Team All-American for ACCA, and 1st Team All-Conference for MCCC. Lynae Collier was named 2nd Team AllConference for MCCC. In men’s soccer, Colton Leinbach was named 1st Team All-Conference, and Andrew Trotter and Nick Maxwell were named 2nd Team All-Conference for the MCCC. Leinbach and Trotter were also named NCCAA Scholar-Athletes. OCC volleyball is coached by Whitney Bond, and men’s soccer is coached by Andy Storms. Congratulations to all our Ambassadors on a great season!
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED
Aaron King Ken Idleman Preaching Scholarship
Colt Doherty Don DeWelt Preaching Scholarship
Elisha Maxwell George & Tasci King Music Scholarship
Congratulations to our fall scholarship recipients! TO INFORM
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CAMPUS NEWS
Welcome, Jeff Phillips
In July, OCC welcomed Jeff Phillips as educational technology manager. In this role, Jeff serves as a faculty and classroom technology specialist, providing faculty with reliable and useful classroom technology solutions and training to develop their competence and confidence with educational technology for any classroom environment. After graduating from OCC in 2006, Jeff worked in youth ministry and as an Apple Genius. We’re honored to have Jeff back at Ozark and we’re grateful for all he’ll bring to the team.
Follow Frontline
Shop the OCC Frontline store at occ.edu/frontlinestore, and, follow Frontline on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Spotify.
Jill English Retires
After 33 years of service at OCC, Jill English retired in December. Jill served Ozark’s single largest constituent group of thousands of alumni, working alongside Meredith Williams, Dru Ashwell, and Troy Nelson. “Jill has represented the college with integrity, compassion, and excellence,” says President Matt Proctor. “Very few employees have touched as many lives as she has.” We are grateful for Jill and her outstanding service. Well done! One of Jill’s responsibilities over the years has been compiling entries for this magazine’s “Alumni News” section. Jill has watched social media, church newsletters, and more for the latest updates from our alumni. With her departure, the “Alumni News” section will now include alumni updates that are submitted on OCC’s website at occ.edu/alumni. Thank you, Jill, for your many years of faithful service!
Seth Wilson Library Staff Transitions
In December, Delberta Fluharty concluded her many years of service in the Audio-Visual Department of the Seth Wilson Library, having worked for four different library directors during her tenure. We’re grateful for the kindness, grace, and excellence with which Delberta carried out her role. Thank you, Delberta, for not just working at OCC, but for deeply owning the mission of training men and women for Christian service! In February, Jacqueline Gage will join OCC in the role of Access Services Librarian, working with Library Director Derek Moser. “Jacque has nearly two decades of administrative service and has developed a reputation of being a hard-working, dependable leader who is focused on patron-centric values. Experience and knowledge are wonderful assets that she brings to the table.” Beyond her library experience, Jacque has a passion for the kingdom, serving alongside her husband, Mike, in the local church for more than 30 years. Jacque is an Ozark grad (78) and the sister of OCC professor David Fish. She is excited to merge her love for libraries with her continued commitment to OCC’s mission of training men and women for Christian service.
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HEARD IN CHAPEL
“It is what we pay attention to that shapes who we become. It is what we give sustained, focused attention to that forms us.” Guest Speaker DAN HAMEL Remade: Let God Renew Your Thinking | 10.25.18
“If you don’t have the right ‘why’ behind your disciplines, your life will be characterized by pride and imprisonment.”
JESSICA SCHEUERMANN Remade: Let God Retrain Your Habits | 11.6.18
“We are loved, and therefore we should love. We are forgiven, and therefore we should forgive. We didn’t earn it, and therefore they don’t have to.”
JIM DALRYMPLE Remade: Let God Reorient Your Relationships | 11.13.18
occ.edu/chapel
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A CHRISTMAS CAROL: THE MUSICAL This year’s Christmas production was a great success, with nearly 3,000 guests, 87 members in the cast and crew, and 6 incredible performances. Under the direction of Garrett Holle (17), OCC presented the musical with Joplin’s Stained Glass Theatre.
New release from Shane J. Wood
BETWEEN TWO TREES
Available for pre-order on Amazon, Christianbooks.com, and Leafwood Press.
shanejwood.com/betweentwotrees
“Shane Wood knows the meta-narrative of Scripture like few others, but what is more important is that he lives its principles every day. Be sure to read Between Two Trees and cultivate the growth and nurture the fruit within.”
Kyle Idleman
Teaching Pastor | Southeast Christian Church, KY Author of Not A Fan and Don’t Give Up
MEET YOUR OCC FAMILY
SARAH RHODES:
AMBASSADOR ON AND OFF THE COURT When Sarah Rhodes joined the OCC admissions staff in April, it wasn’t her first time as an ambassador. Originally from Miami, Oklahoma, Sarah transferred to OCC from Manhattan Christian College and played both basketball and volleyball for the Lady Ambassadors. She graduated in 2014 and earned a master’s degree in Collegiate Athletic Administration from Coker College. In addition to her role in athletics recruiting, Sarah also serves as Ozark’s assistant women’s volleyball and basketball coach, having held assistant and head coaching roles at Central Christian College of Kansas and Randall University before her return to OCC. “I realized my freshman year of college that I wanted to coach,” she says. “As I watched a high school basketball game, I thought, ‘I would love to do that someday.’ My favorite thing to do is coach.” Sarah brings more than athletic ability to the court. She also brings a ministry mindset. “I feel a calling to young women’s ministry, and coaching is a great way to do that. Every day, I have the opportunity to get to know the young women on my team. We really are a family. I get to walk alongside them as they grow, and teach them much more than just a game.”
Sarah’s parents are both teachers in Oklahoma. Her father coached track and cross country, and her brother, Matthew, graduated from OCC in 2018.
1 Corinthians 13:1-7 is Sarah’s favorite Scripture. “We’re called to love others, and how we love people is what matters most.”
In addition to sports, Sarah also enjoys singing, painting, cooking, and…high-heeled shoes. “Even though I’m six feet tall, I love wearing heels. I wear them a lot,” she laughs, “I may have an obsession.”
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COMING SOON
FEBRUARY 18-20:
PREACHING-TEACHING CONVENTION Don’t miss this year’s Preaching-Teaching Convention, February 18-20 at OCC. Speakers Ashley Wooldridge, Brad Tate, Caleb Kaltenbach, Daryl Reed, Jeff Walling, Mark Scott, Nathan Rector, and Shan Moyers will unpack our series in 1 Peter, “No Matter What.” The week also includes: •
• •
Pre-convention seminars and Super Sessions from Annette Safstrom, Jeff Walling, Caleb Kaltenbach, Lori Wilhite, Jim Powell, and a live recording of Every Thought Captive podcast
APRIL 5-6:
WOMEN’S CONFERENCE Ladies, “return to rest” this spring, with main speaker April Kehrer and worship with Sara Wood. With main sessions, worship, and late-night fun, you’ll grow closer to God and one another. occ.edu/wc
Class Reunion Lunches: 1994 (25 years) and 1969 (50 years) RSVP to jones.grace@occ.edu. Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. in the Chapel Lobby President’s Banquet for alumni and friends: Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. in the MPB
occ.edu/pt
MAY 11:
COMMENCEMENT Join us for our 2019 Commencement at OCC. We’ll worship together in a Baccalaureate service on May 2 in our final chapel service of the semester, and Commencement will be held Saturday, May 11, at 10:00 a.m. in the MPB.
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COMING SOON
MAY 27-31:
BRANSON CONFERENCE Adults 55+, mark your calendars for a week away at Chateau on the Lake in Branson, Missouri. President Matt Proctor, Dr. Mark Scott, Gerald Griffin, and Jon Kehrer will unpack the theme, “We Are Christ’s Ambassadors.” 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: • vocal
• filmmaking
• theater
• graphic design
• art
• plus, guest speakers, field trips, and more
• instrumental • photography
• animation
• production
• writing
Register by March 12 for the early bird rate of $270. occ.edu/caa
JUNE:
SPORTS CAMPS Every summer, the Athletics Department hosts sports camps for kids in grades 3-12. 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 VOLLEYBALL:
BASKETBALL: Boys and Girls Day Camp
Junior High Boys
Junior High Girls
High School Boys
Grades 3-5 // June 5-7
Grades 6-8 // June 9-12
Grades 6-8 // June 16-19 Grades 9-12 // June 23-27
Junior High Girls 1 Grades 6-8 // June 12-14 Junior High Girls 2 Grades 6-8 // June 19-21
TO INFORM
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COMING SOON
FEBRUARY 18-20:
PREACHING-TEACHING CONVENTION NO MATTER WHAT: HOLY LIVING IN A HOSTILE LAND
Caleb Kaltenbach
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Shan Moyers
Nathan Rector
Daryl Reed
Brad Tate
Jeff Walling
Ashley Wooldridge
A study in 1 Peter. Register today! occ.edu/pt
Mark Scott
HERE’S AN IDEA
ADOPT A TEAM
RECRUIT COACHES AS VOLUNTEERS
HOST A MEAL
Adopt a team. Send notes of
Recruit coaches—past or
Host a “Breakfast of
encouragement, buy snacks
present—to your volunteer
victory party in their honor.
commitment will prove
for practices, or hold a
Champions” or spaghetti
staff. Their creativity and invaluable.
dinner before a team’s big
game. Include a testimony
from an athlete in that sport.
SIX SIMPLE SPORTS IDEAS FOR YOUR STUDENT MINISTRY
HOST A TOURNAMENT Host a tournament. Close the
ENCOURAGE ATHLETES Encourage an injured athlete.
event with a meal, awards, an
Know a local athlete sidelined
invitation to your church.
let them know you’re praying.
athlete’s testimony, and an
Adapted from fcaresources.com
by an injury? Send a note to
VOLUNTEER COACH Coach! Volunteer for a
season as a part-time coach,
and build relationships with students and parents alike.
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YOUR PARTNERSHIP
Doug Miller has served as General Counsel at OCC since 2002.
DOES YOUR WILL ACCOMPLISH GOD’S WILL? Doug Miller
“Who does not have an estate plan?” I usually begin my presentation on wills, trusts, and probate with this question. Invariably, a few embarrassed hands are raised, but it’s a trick question. The truth is, everyone has an estate plan. A better question would be, “Did you write your estate plan, or did someone else?” If you don’t make an estate plan, your state will decide who receives your property. How much do you think the state will leave your church, missionaries, or ministries you support? If you answered “none,” you are correct! If you want to be a godly steward, you can’t rely on the state’s plan for your possessions. You must make a will, trust, or beneficiary designation.
As Christians, we know God owns everything, and we merely manage his property. Every week at church, we hear an offering meditation on giving during our lives. How often do you hear a meditation about being a good steward when you die? Do your possessions cease being God’s property at your death? Does God stop caring about his property when you’re gone? Directing the distribution of your possessions at death is your final act of stewardship. In 2002, Ruth Lilly left a $100 million estate gift to Poetry magazine. Do you think poetry was important to Ruth? Do your estate plans reflect what is important to you? Is your faith in Jesus Christ obvious in your
TRIBUTE GIFTS SEPTEMBER 4-NOVEMBER 30, 2018 MEMORIAL GIFTS: Sarah Aronson M/M John Taylor William Beard Helen Alexander Anonymous M/M Lyle Beedy M/M Mark Berry Vera Burch M/M Jeff Cantrell Shirley Cantrell Kyle Carothers M/M Charles Clark M/M Larry Cochran M/M Dale Courson M/M Jim Culver M/M J.C. Dixon M/M Phillip Doherty M/M David Dowell Roberta Farr Mickey Ferrell M/M Allen Francis Shane Garner M/M Neal Gordon M/M Larry Graves M/M Cleo Greenhaw M/M Dave Hankey M/M Mark Harden M/M Stanley Hill M/M Bobby TOJohnson CONNECT
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Robert Kirkpatrick M/M Larry Kizziar M/M Ivan Koblitz M/M Jeff Levetzow M/M Rick Martin M/M Randy Morgan M/M Terry Morgan Valoyce Musgrove Deborah Norris Megan O’Neil Ridin’ 4 Him Cowboy Baptist Church (Jet, OK) M/M Loren Rieger M/M Bobby Schmidt M/M Sam Schurter Kent Smades Imogene Smith M/M Monte Stewart M/M William Swafford Marshall Vogts Debra West Ronald Briggs Lenora Briggs Beverly Bumann Dr. & Mrs. Tim Bumann Dr. Paul & Gale Butler M/M Larry Lankford Darrell Davis M/M David Davis
estate plan? Does your will accomplish God’s will? Over the years, several friends have included Ozark in their estate plans. Would you prayerfully consider joining those who are helping OCC train the next generation of missionaries and ministers? Contact me at miller.doug@occ.edu or 417.626.1215, and let’s talk about taking the next steps in letting your will accomplish God’s will.
Don DeWelt M/M Richard Halaas
Amy Mintz M/M Merle Mintz
Charlie Franklin Norma Franklin
Don Moore Dr. & Mrs. Woody Wilkinson
Dr. Lynn Gardner M/M Kenny Boles M/M Bob Davis M/M James Dillon M/M Melvin Harp M/M Gene Huston M/M David McMillin M/M Merle Mintz M/M Jerry Myers Patricia Roane M/M Monte Shoemake M/M Myron Williams
Woody Phillips M/M Richard Halaas
Dallas Goodman Dorthy Eubank M/M Robert Goodman M/M Timothy Leakey Charlene Mohn M/M Paul Rhoades Jean Watson M/M Robert Wells Maurice Hartman Vivian Hartman Bobby Lyttle M/M Mark Elliff Jerry Rosenbaum Insurance Mary McIntosh Leah McIntosh M/M Marvin Schiavone Connie Mieir M/M William Mieir
Nancy Ellen Puckett M/M Dallas Puckett Phyllis Scott Marilyn Haenig Dale & Arlene Storms M/M Timothy Storms Kiley Taft M/M David Buskirk M/M Curt Dyer Linda Elliott, Elaine Abernathy, and Joan Krauss M/M John France M/M Randy Graves Vicki Graves Wanda McDaniel Paul Mueller James Pahdoco Marie Reynolds M/M William Sunderland Amy Taft Sam & Louise Tate Dr. & Mrs. Woody Wilkinson Lloyd Thomas Betty Thomas Henry & Dolores Ward Thelma Truex and Laurel Kublick
Cynthia Weece Leon Weece Dr. & Mrs. Woody Wilkinson Don & Jean Weece Dr. & Mrs. Woody Wilkinson Leonard & Mae Weece Dr. & Mrs. Woody Wilkinson Linda Weece Dr. & Mrs. Woody Wilkinson Roy Weece Dr. & Mrs. Woody Wilkinson Seth Wilson M/M Richard Halaas Charles & Dorothy Wittenborn M/M David Wittenborn HONOR GIFTS: Benjamin Proctor M/M Gene Proctor Carl Proctor M/M Gene Proctor Clara Proctor M/M Gene Proctor Doug Miller M/M Robert Scott Robert Stacy M/M Richard Halaas
ALUMNI NEWS
PLAY ON, AMBASSADORS! Travel the world, and you’ll find that sports are an intrinsic part of the culture in which they’re played. In Scotland, it’s golf and log throwing—in kilts! In Kenya, soccer and wheelbarrow racing. England: rugby and shin kicking. And in the United States, we love our football…and hot dog eating. Whether participating as an athlete or watching as a fan, sports are much more than just physical activity or entertainment. Sports develop personal and team ethics. Sports unite people of different races and economic classes into teammates. Sports teach encouragement, perseverance, and the importance of sacrificing personal preference for the good of the team. Sports can reveal true character. In light of all this, sports can have a valuable place in Christian formation. Even more…sports can be a means of gospel proclamation. Jeremy Treat, adjunct professor of theology at Biola University, tells of a question once asked by theologian Jürgen Moltmann: “Is it appropriate,” Moltmann inquired, “for Christians to be playing games while World War II ravishes nations, children starve, and the innocent are being oppressed?” Moltmann replied with a resounding “Yes,” and his response was grounded in his theology of play. 1 Treat summarizes Moltmann this way: In playing, we anticipate the return of Christ, a time when there will be no war, a time when sin will not corrupt the goodness of which we are to delight, and a time when our longing for freedom and childlike joy will be satisfied. Play foreshadows the joy of the kingdom when Christ reigns over all, and decay, disease, and death will be no more. 2 At OCC, “Ambassador” is more than a mascot or a name on our jerseys. Even in sports, we proclaim our hope and confidence in Christ’s return. So play on, Ambassadors! Play on.
1 2
Moltmann, Jürgen. Theology of Play. New York: Harper & Row, 1972. Treat, Jeremy T. “More Than A Game: A Theology of Sport.” Themelios, 40.3 (2015), p. 403.
Troy Nelson serves as alumni relations director at OCC.
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ALUMNI NEWS
CONGRATULATIONS
Travis (11) and Lorre Roberson (11) Buchan on the birth of Lane Scott on July 24. Travis is CFO with Rapha House, and Lorre is a nurse at St. John’s Medical Center. The Buchans live in Broken Arrow, OK.
Justin (15) and Debbie Ebert on the birth of Brooks James on December 3 in Stillwater, OK. Justin serves as the high school student minister with Sunnybrook CC in Stillwater.
Jordan (16) and Noelle Wickenkamp (15) Edmondson on the arrival of Jasper Lee on October 24. The Edmondsons live in Oronogo, MO. Ryan (10) and Megan Gariss (09) Fletcher on the arrival of Shepherd Lawrence on November 29 in Phoenix, AZ. The Fletchers serve with Christ’s Church of the Valley in Peoria.
Justin (14) and Rebecca Roth (13) Gill on the birth of Sophia Diana Mae in Bolingbrook, IL, on September 13.
Ethan (13) and Audrey Dooley (13) Greer on the birth of Lavender Katherine on October 9 in Japan, where the Greers serve with Mustard Seed Network.
Evan (17) and Anna Chandler (17/current staff ) Hand on the arrival of Ellis Matthew on November 20. Evan serves as children’s minister with Racine CC in Racine, MO.
Joel (14) and Bayli Gibson (13) Harney on the arrival of Campbell Louise on November 20. Joel serves as youth minister with Valley View CC in Carrollton, TX, and Bayli is a nurse. Chad (09) and Rachel Harrington on the birth of Emma Rose on October 18. The Harringtons live in Antioch, TN.
Michael (attended) and Sally Farley (16) Hicks on the birth of Arlo Gresham in Kansas City, MO, on October 3.
Adam (06) and Audrey Hogan on the birth of Brooklyn Elise on October 22 in Joplin. Adam is a teacher in Webb City, MO.
Josh (12) and Kimberly Madison (12) Hurley on the birth of Lincoln Thomas on October 17 in North Fort Myers, FL. Josh and Bethany Barringer (07) Huskey on the arrival of Evelyn Jo Tendai on September 21. The Huskeys live in Springdale, AR.
Kyle (17/current staff ) and Kelly George (attended) Kleespies on the arrival of Thea Claire on October 24.
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ALUMNI NEWS
Daniel (09) and Kelsie Sorlien (07/former staff ) Koch welcomed Phoebe Noelle on September 20. Daniel serves as communications minister with Northside CC in Broken Arrow, OK.
Matt (00) and Robin Rickey (99) Umbarger on the birth of Ellana Lucille on October 23 in Wichita, KS.
Morgan Weece (10) on the adoption of LaQuantae Kortez Alan (Quan) (age 17) on September 21 in Stillwater, OK. Morgan serves as student minister with Sunnybrook CC in Stillwater.
Sam (14) and Carlea Richert (15) Landis welcomed Lennox Ivy on September 5. The Landis family lives in Topeka, KS.
Tim (17) and Autumn (Appling) Morgan welcomed Ezra Soren on July 1 in Springfield, IL. Tim is earning his master’s degree at Lincoln Christian University.
Braydon and Lauren Stewart (13) Rand on the birth of Alcie Layne on September 14 in Joplin. J.T. (08) and Karyn Abercrombie-Cavillin (10) Scott on the arrival of Rylee on October 18 in Oklahoma City, OK.
Jason (14) and Taylor Robinson (attended) St. Clair welcomed Hudson Allen on November 1 in Phoenix, AZ.
Devin and Kaylee Ohmart (attended) Wortman on the birth of Cooper Lewis in Lincoln, NE, on September 6.
LET US HEAR FROM YOU! Beginning with our next issue, the Alumni News section will only include submissions made on OCC’s website at occ.edu/alumni. We look forward to hearing from you!
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ALUMNI NEWS
CLASS NOTES:
OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY Please lift up in prayer the families of the following alumni who have passed away in recent weeks. Earl Cook (74) passed away on November 2 in Bolivar, MO.
1950s Congratulations to Gerald (56) and Shirley Zuck who celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on May 19 in Cherryvale, KS.
Jim Davis (72) died of a sudden heart attack in Maraba, Brazil, on December 5. Nancy Abbott Ganter (attended) passed away on September 29 in Kennewick, WA, following several years of declining health. Maurice Hartman (54) passed away on March 24 in Xenia, OH, at the age of 93.
James Deckert (96/former staff ) passed away on April 19 in Salina, KS, after a brief battle with brain cancer.
Dr. Sterling Lacy (65) passed away in Texarkana, TX, on November 29.
David Malcolm (75) passed away on November 10 in Las Vegas, NV, following a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Bob Miller (attended) passed away on November 20 in Joplin after several years of declining health. Russell Moomaw (58) passed away in Lincoln, NE, on December 2 at the age of 90.
1960s Roger Woodrome (67-M) was honored on October 26 in Oklahoma City, OK, with a reception celebrating 53 years in the preaching ministry.
David Parsley (56) passed away at his home in Johnson City, TN, following an extended illness. Phyllis Scott (attended) passed away in Hemet, CA, on August 31, following an illness. Kiley Pahdoco Taft (92) died suddenly from a heart attack on October 16 in Melissa, TX.
Cassandra Jones Neill (84) passed away on December 4 in Katy, TX.
Charles Towne (74) passed away in Chanute, KS, on October 10 from various health issues.
Craig Tucker (81) passed away suddenly on September 27 in Flower Mound, TX. Mark Watkins (82) passed away in Indianapolis, IN, on September 10, following an extended illness.
Mike Whorlow (06) passed away at his home in Diamond, MO, on September 4, after battling colon and liver cancer. Diana Watson Wills (68) passed away on September 6 in Colorado Springs, CO, after a long battle with cancer. Gerald “Jerry” Wright (attended) passed away in Paducah, KY, on November 18.
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Best wishes to Bob (58) and Helen Cole (attended) Roberts of Joplin, who celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on October 25.
1970s Best wishes to Bob (70) and Donna Prater (attended) Brockus on the celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary in Texarkana, TX, on December 29.
Ed Hahn (72), a pastoral care chaplain with Mercy Hospital in Joplin, was recently presented a Living Our Values Award in the area of Dignity. Rodney Brown (76) completed 44 years of ministry in December. He and his wife, Freida Stout (76), closed a 26-year ministry with Parkview CC in Sedalia.
ALUMNI NEWS
2000s
1980s
Karen Donathen Duffy (85) is in her sixth year as founder and director of Come to the Rainforest Foundation, a non-profit which serves the Waorani and Achuar tribes deep in the Ecuadorian rainforest. Come to the Rainforest offers individuals, churches, and groups short-term medical, humanitarian, faith-based, and educational opportunities to work alongside these tribes. cometotherainforest.org
Doug (02) and Shyra McClure (attended) Songer are now serving with Venture CC in Katy, TX, where Doug is the worship pastor.
Jason Shaull (05) is living in Granger, IN, following service in the US Navy. He is working and is a master’s student at Syracuse University.
Deana Spillers Roach (89) recently received the Oklahoma Foreign Language Teacher of the Year Award. She teaches in Norman, OK.
Dr. Jeff Snell (89/former faculty) has been named Dean of the School of Congregational Ministry at Johnson University in Knoxville, TN.
1990s In early 2018, Phil Smith (92) transitioned from full-time missions pastor with Countryside CC in Wichita, KS, to a mission partner with them, serving as training coach for missionary recruits preparing for service with Pioneer Bible Translators. The Smiths will continue to live in Wichita.
After 22 years in Oklahoma, Tom Grayam (94) returned to Indiana in 2017 to assist his parents. He now teaches economics at Northside High School, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Tom is an active member at Pine Hills Church, Fort Wayne, volunteering in the student ministry.
Steven Harvey (94) is serving as co-pastor at Agape CC in Las Cruces, NM, and working as a supervisor of adult services with Tresco, Inc.
Justin Hartpence (08) graduated in April with a Master of Divinity degree from Portland Seminary of George Fox University in Portland, OR. Justin serves as the senior pastor at Dayton Christian Church in Dayton.
Kevin Bryant (09) is serving as discipleship pastor with Life Bridge CC in Taylor, MI, leaving a ministry in Mt. Vernon, MO.
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ALUMNI NEWS
2010s Rittney Blum Greer (11) is serving as children’s minister with the Town & Country CC in Topeka, KS, having formerly served this congregation as administrative assistant. She and her husband Matthew (attended) have two sons.
Taylor Hunt (16) serves as students director at Mission Church in Ventura, CA. Taylor recently became engaged to Daylie Parks, elementary children’s coordinator at their church.
Thomas Montgomery (16), enrolled in graduate school at Lincoln Christian University, is working to start a non-profit ministry to fight and raise awareness of human trafficking. On September 1, he married Janiece Brotton in Oklahoma City, OK.
Melissa (Faraci) Wolf (17) married Justin Wolf on October 8. The couple resides in San Antonio, TX.
Lizzy Hinebauch (18) and Max Peterson (attended) were married on September 8. They are living in Newberg, OR, where Max is doing a residency with Newberg CC and she works fulltime as the ministry support coordinator. Ryan Summerhill (18) is serving as student minister with the Living Word CC in Newburgh, IN.
Natalie Herrod (17) and Danny Zwontizer were married in Bend, OR, on October 28.
Attended Norm Conrad received the 2018 Irena Sendler Memorial Award in Warsaw, Poland this summer. A longtime teacher in the Uniontown, KS, schools, Norm wrote a play about Irena that received national acclaim. Director of the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Norm has won many awards, including induction into the National Teachers Hall of Fame in 2007. Norman and the Lowell Milken Center are known internationally for the development of school projects that teach respect among all people and for innovation in project-based learning. Mike Fagras was recently elected Circuit Court Judge, representing the 11th Judicial District of Missouri in St. Charles. A former police officer and long-serving attorney in the St. Charles area, Mike and his wife Cindy Grannemann live in Weldon Spring and are active members of the Harvester CC in St. Charles.
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BOOKS Breaking The Hex: Life with God after the Cross Killed Religion by Roger (80) and Jeff Fields (83)
Confessions: Finding Hope through One Pastor’s Doubt by Steve Hinton (attended)
Matter to the Mission! The Gatekeeper’s Cause by Doug McAllister (81) 7 Daily Choices: How to Create, Build, and Sustain a Thriving Life Together by Dow Tippett (93)
AD
1111 N Main St Joplin, MO 64801 Change service requested
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ONE MORE THING
A final thought from our editor Amy Storms is a wife, mother, Strong Hall dorm mom, and director of marketing and communications at OCC.
L.O.K. Amy Storms
Years ago, my dad noticed an odd entry in my parents’ checkbook registry. There, printed in Mom’s perfect penmanship, were three letters: L.O.K. “Rose Ann, what’s this for?” he asked, pointing at the line in the book. “What’s ‘L.O.K.’?” “Oh, that,” she replied confidently, “is a trick my mother taught me. If you can’t make your statement match the bank’s, you just put in ‘L.O.K.’ for the difference.” Dad paused, then continued. “But what does it stand for?” “Lord only knows!” That’s one way to make things reconcile! The apostle Paul knew about reconciliation. 1 He taught the Corinthian Christians about new life in Christ: “The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ.” And not only that, wrote Paul, but God gave us the ministry of reconciliation, and committed to us the message of reconciliation. As followers of Jesus, he said, it’s 1 2
2 Corinthians 5:16-21 (New International Version) Ephesians 4:17-5:21 (New International Version)
our job…our mission…our responsibility…to “implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.” And so, bearing this ministry and message, “we are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.” We are Christ’s ambassadors in our churches, preaching and teaching, counseling and serving. We are Christ’s ambassadors in our homes, rooting our children in God’s Word and reflecting his love in the way we love each other. We are Christ’s ambassadors in our communities, encouraging, forgiving, and submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ. 2 We are Christ’s ambassadors, imploring a lost world to find reconciliation in Christ—because, after all, we ourselves once needed reconciliation, too. We needed Christ to pay the difference on our account. “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” And, oh! How much that must have cost! Truly, the Lord only knows.