MAY 20, 2015
CHURCH OF THE SERVANT Bi-Weekly NEWSLETTER
Issue: 15.9
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The United Methodist Church Building Lives That Matter
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Rev. Randy Shrauner with Ut To and others in Vietnam
ach of us, I believe, has within us a deep desire for our lives to matter and to be involved in projects and groups that are making a difference in our world. For us as disciples and followers of Jesus Christ, that hope spreads beyond the boundaries of our natural life here on earth and extends to the very horizons of heaven, as we recognize that our day-to-day actions are of eternal importance and consequence. Learning to recognize that our most mundane daily activities — a conversation over a cup of coffee, the wait in the grocery store checkout line, a phone call, a handwritten note, an evening meal with the family — are filled with potential for blessing in the name of Jesus Christ and is central to our personal growth as Christians. Acknowledged or not, each of us is an emissary of the King. Each of us is a full-time missionary of the gospel as we share with others through our actions and attitudes, and yes, occasionally our words, the “Good News” of Jesus Christ. The question then becomes: Are we being faithful to this calling and are we taking full advantage of the opportunity we have been given? The primary mission field of Church of the Servant is our local neighborhood and the people with whom we share life on a daily basis. The mission field is comprised of our spouses and our chil-
dren, our coworkers and our friends, the man who takes your order for lunch and the woman who collects your shirts at the drycleaner’s window. Learning to see them all through the eyes of Christ and to share his love, hopes, and aspirations for them is foundational to our Christian identity. This process of internal transformation as our view of the people around us is reshaped and conformed to the mind of Christ is not always straightforward and will often find us in situations outside our range of comfort, but it is in those places on the fringe of the expected and the comfortable that God can best work to change us. I was first invited in 2012 to join a group working with the United Methodist Church in Vietnam, making that initial trip in the spring of the following year. The cultural gap between that beautiful land and Oklahoma City (let alone Protection, Kansas!) is indeed profound. I found myself deeply unsettled by the experience and looking for any point of contact, any point of reference that I could tie onto as a mooring to help me regain my footing. I found that anchor in the persons of Ut and Karen To, our GBGM Missionaries to Vietnam. Time and space won’t permit me to tell their whole story here, but in Ut and Karen I stumbled across two people whose entire lives are dedicated to introducing people to Jesus Christ, as they spread the Gospel message in the land they call home. Their work has cost them dearly, as they have sacrificed health, comfort and safety for the sake of Christ, yet they gladly continue their efforts, recognizing the result is the transformation of individuals, ...Continued on page 4
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Skyline... Our Urban Ministry
In March, the Special Fish Appeal raised $23,225! Most of this gift will go to fund the Clothes for Kids program. Earthglow will also be donating 20,000 for designated programs this year, which takes our church giving to $43,225. This is a great accomplishment to celebrate! There are many ways to be connected to Skyline. Giving is just one and always needed, but the gift of your time as a volunteer is also precious. Clothes 4 Kids Volunteers Needed Each summer Skyline Urban Ministry provides two new school uniforms, underwear, socks, and shoes to hundreds of children in need. Donate your time! With the large volume of clients we receive during Clothes 4 Kids, we always appreciate volunteers! Below are the dates of volunteer opportunities: Clothes 4 Kids Registration June 1 – June 25: Mondays – Thursdays Shifts Available: Mon/Wed 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. and Tues/Thurs 9:00 a.m. – noon; or 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Description: Interview parents and complete intake forms to determine clothing and shoe sizes of children needed for ordering inventory. Volunteers need to arrive 15 minutes prior to start of shift for brief training. Clothes 4 Kids Distribution July 13 – July 24: Mondays – Fridays Shifts Available: Mon – Fri 8:30 a.m. – Noon and 12:30 – 4:00 p.m. Description: Personal shopper – personally take each child to designated areas to try on shoes and school uniforms to ensure a proper fit for the child. If you have questions or would like to volunteer, contact Melissa Ramey at (405) 632-2644 or mramey@skylineurbanministry.org. Why is Clothes 4 Kids Important in Oklahoma City? Approximately 89% of children in the Oklahoma City School District are eligible for Free or Reduced School lunches due to incomes at or below poverty. ALL Oklahoma City Public Schools require children to wear uniforms, but no financial assistance is offered for the uniforms through the state. Though requiring uniforms can be beneficial, it can also be a financial burden on families that are already struggling to make ends meet. Schools do allow a grace period for families to purchase school uniforms; but after that period is up, children often have to miss school until they are in uniform. We don’t want children to have to miss class due to financial hardships. It is such a blessing to be able to serve these children so that they can attend the first day of school wearing clothes and shoes that are just as shiny and new as the clothes that all the other children are wearing. Not only are we offering apparel, we are offering confidence and self-esteem to children in need. Thank you all so much for your support and for helping us, help those in need in our community!
Project Transformation
Partnering in the Summer with Church and Community for Literacy Readers and Listeners are needed June 22-25, mornings, 9-noon at Chapel Hill UMC. Meals are needed for interns three evenings during this week. Would your class or small group serve a meal to 10 college students at OCU? Please sign up at the Welcome Center on Sundays or contact Susie Cobden at scobden@churchoftheservant.com.
Missions School Supplies for CHILDSHARE
Throughout the summer, school supplies go on sale. Why not pick up a few extras to help the foster children connected with CHILDSHARE? Drop your supplies at the Mission Kiosk on Sundays or bring them to the Missions office during the week.
UMCOR Cleaning Buckets
Just as two years ago this mission was very timely here in Oklahoma for the Moore and El Reno tornado clean up, the buckets you are filling and returning for our May mission are also proving to be timely this year. The buckets will stay here in Oklahoma this year to help those who have been affected by the flooding and tornados in the Moore and Bridge creek area. They will be delivered to our VIM headquarters in Moore for distribution and through other local churches. One Hundred filled buckets was our goal and we have accomplished this for such a need as this! Thank you to all who have filled one, and remember to return it this Sunday! YOU ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE!
What Is Project Transformation?
The Project Transformation mission is to engage young adults in purposeful leadership and ministry, support underserved children and families, and connect churches to communities in need. If you’re new to Project Transformation, the easiest way to understand how we live out our mission is remembering the three C’s: Children, College students, and Churches. Since Project Transformation Oklahoma’s founding in 2001, this ministry has been addressing three unique challenges with one program: 1) How to meet the academic, physical and spiritual needs of children from low-income communities 2) How to provide meaningful ways for college students to explore ministry opportunities and develop as young adult leaders for the church and the world 3) How to help revitalize struggling urban churches SERVANT May 20, 2015 I Page 3
Missions
The United Methodist Church ...Continued from page 2
families, and entire villages through the saving grace of Jesus. In Ut and Karen I find a pattern for life and discipleship; I find an example of what it means to pour myself out for the sake of those around me; I find the type of disciple that I hope to be. In the years that have followed, we are exploring a growing ministry partnership between the United Methodist Church in Vietnam and Church of the Servant. There are resources that we can provide to aid in their work: motorcycles to assist the pastors in their travel, training and theological education to deepen their effectiveness, and sustainability projects to feed and stabilize their
Adult
communities, but there is much for us to gain though our partnership as well, as we experience their passion and vision for local mission and seek to follow their example, as we do the work of the Church here in north Oklahoma City. I want you to meet my friends Ut and Karen. I am extending a personal invitation for you to join them as we gather for worship at Church of the Servant this coming Sunday, May 24. Together, through the love and grace of Jesus Christ, we can build lives that matter, lives that make a difference, lives that bring glory to God. Rev. Randy Shrauner Executive Minister
Great Things To Do This Summer
I hope you’re excited about a great summer and maybe have a weekend getaway or family vacation planned! I love summer vacations, but you don’t have to do an elaborate trip to enjoy some time with your family and friends. I was searching for things to do with my family this summer and came across a ton of great articles and ideas. Here are five of my favorite ideas: 1. Family Game Night: Pick a classic board game and play as a family. You can print up funny certificates for the winners. 2. Around the World Theme Weeks: Each week, pick a country and learn a little about it. Put the flag on your fridge. Cook a meal that comes from that part of the world. Pray for a missionary there. 3. Disposable Camera Project: In a world of iPhones and Instagram, you might be surprised that stores still sell film cameras, but they do. Give one to each family member and give them an assignment. Develop in an hour and let everyone share during dinner on Sunday night. 4. Visit the Library: Yep, the library. In addition to books and films, you might also enjoy story time or some of their special activities. 5. Summer Movies: On July 10, Church of the Servant is hosting an Outdoor Movie Night, showing: Big Hero 6. If we can serve you or your family in any way this summer, please let us know. Pastor Scott Page 4 I ChurchotheServant.com
Women Summer Bible Study Spending Time In the Upper Room Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m.
Single Mom’s Ministry Celebrates Mother’s Day
Would you like to connect to the Word and a great group of women this summer? Then come on Wednesday mornings to study and share the Scripture devotions from the Upper Room Publication. This small treasured book can be purchased in Earthglow. Each week under the leadership of Debbi Marshall and Patricia Hocker, the group will share Scripture as it intersects with everyday life. Prayer and a time of reflection are also included. The class will run Wednesday mornings, 9:30-11:30, May 13-July 29. Each week is a stand-alone study. To enroll, contact Susie Cobden at scobden@churchoftheservant.com or 728-4711.
At noon on Mother’s Day while most families were leaving the building to have a Mother’s Day celebration somewhere, there was one happening right here in the building! The SMILE - “Single Mother’s In our Lord’s Embrace” - Ministry which meets on Sundays at 10:45, hosted a luncheon for moms and their children. Twenty-five moms and grandmas attended with 18 children. The women walked into a wonderfully-decorated room done by our high school students, shared a great meal, and laughed and cried through a beautiful program of videos and wise words from Vicki Gilstrap, who raised her children as a single mother here at Church of the Servant. Our middle school students made crafts with the children, while the moms enjoyed the program. It was a wonderful accomplishment in shared ministry in the building, as well as meeting a need in our community. I would ask you to continue to pray for this growing group as we support each other, and most importantly, point lives to Jesus Christ and his transforming love. - Dr. Robyn Goggs
Music
Suzuki Strings Classes
Suzuki Strings is proud to announce the launch of our new guitar program led by the very talented Michael Fresonke, MA. This Summer brings two opportunities to attend guitar camps at Church of the Servant from June 2-6 and July 6-10. Suzuki Strings at Church of the Servant provides both traditional and Suzuki based violin, viola, cello, fiddle, and guitar classes and private lessons to all ages and abilities. Registration is open year round. More information can be found at churchoftheservant.com or at registration tables in the Church concourse throughout May.
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Children MOVE-UP SUNDAY
Move-up Sunday for all grades (Kindergarten through 5th) will be Sunday, May 31. Fifth graders (who will be going into 6th grade this fall) will move to Student Ministries on May 31. Three – five-year olds move into their Sunday school class on their birthdays.
Children’s Mission Leadership Team
New at Earthglow…
Stylishly hand painted burlap Children’s Ministries is continuing our program - the Children’s Mission Leadbags - perfect for spring and sumership Team. We are building a leadership team of 4th and 5th graders who are mer accessorizing. All profits go interested in guiding our Children’s Ministries Outreach. Our vision is that these to missions. Earthglow is located young people will begin their journey of serving others here, and have a great bain the church Concourse. sis from which to build as they grow older. Also, we hope that they will understand our calling to serve others through our faith and build leadership skills in working for Jesus. This leadership team is responsible for searching for needs, determining choices, and being involved in and leading the missions we support in our Sunday school, WOW, KOW, and Grapple groups. ARE YOU UP FOR THE CHALLENGE? We will meet to determine missions we are interested in and what we want to accomplish, and facilitate those missions. This will be a student-led endeavor. I will supervise, but the ultimate decisions will be made by the leadership team. If you would like your child to be involved in this fantastic opportunity of learning and leading, fill out the application on the Children’s page of our church Website. I look forward to the amazing things this leadership team will accomplish! “If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.” - 1 John 3:17-18
Cindy Brackenbury Coordinator of Elementary Children’s Ministries
Student
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Prayer for Our Graduates
God of our beginnings, we thank you for the gifts of these graduates; their excitement, their awesome wonder and curiosity, their open speech and encouraging words. Their contributions have blessed and challenged us, and we have become a richer and more diverse community because of them. As they step forward into the world that awaits, comfort their fears with the full knowledge of your divine presence. Strengthen their resolve to walk in the footsteps of Jesus as modern-day disciples in a world that needs their spirit. Guide their feet as they move through life, protecting them from the pitfalls of darkness while they help to lead future generations into the warmth and promise of your light. We ask this blessing upon each of them, In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. (Written for the National Federation of Catholic Youth Ministry)
Our Prayers
Our Life Together
u J. Robb Bartlett and Linda Foster as J. Robb recuperates from a procedure. u Larry and Marcia Becker as Marcia faces surgery at the OU Medical Center Presbyterian Hospital. u Ron and Shirley Beckett as Ron recuperates from surgery. u Dan and Terri Bruner as Terri’s mother, Pat Wilson, deals with health issues. u Milt and Frances Ferguson as Milt deals with health issues. u Bob and Jan Green as Jan’s mother and step-father, Jo and Jim Russell, both deal with health issues. u Kevin, Tiffany, Matthew and Abby Haggard as Kevin’s father, Dave Haggard, deals with health issues. u Gloria Hudson as Gloria’s mother, Marlene Hudson, recuperates from surgery. u Jeff Kirkhuff as Jeff recuperates from outpatient surgery. u Pat McGarrity and LeRoy Ball as Pat recuperates from a procedure. u Tom and Judy McGee as Tom recuperates from outpatient surgery. u Wes and Jeanie Mills as Wes deals with health issues. u Brenda Morris as Brenda’s father, James McAlister, recuperates from surgery.
Our Sympathy
Celebrating Memories
u Lois Crooks and Family at the death of Lois’ husband, Ray Crooks.
u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministry in honor of Garrett Bryant by Don & Doris Cline
u Brian, Stephanie, Aubrey, Daxton, Georgia, Sophia, Lillie and Mollie Byers and Family at the death of Brian’s father, Stansell “Pete” Byers.
u Joe and Pam Lovell and Family at the death of Pam’s cousin, Debbie Morton. u Henry and Jere Marcotte and Family at the death of Jere’s aunt, Gladys Heflin. u Bob and Debbie Marshall and Family at the death of Bob’s aunt, Mada McCord.
u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Mission Ministry in memory of Virginia Williamson by Linda Foster u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Sr. Minister’s Discretionary Fund in memory of Pat King by Sue Miller
u Ron and Jennifer Sahmaunt, Paul and Millie Fernald and Family at the death of Jennifer’s mother, Charlotte Chavez.
u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministry in memory of Justin Davis by Jim Cross & Roberta Carrier Cross
Celebrating
u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Earthglow in memory of Kenneth Hazen by Jim Cross & Roberta Carrier Cross
u Barbara Eskridge at the birth of her great granddaughter, Eloise Anne Eskridge. The proud parents are Ed and Megan Eskridge. The proud sister is Evie Eskridge. u Monique Laughlin and Bill and Mary White at the birth of Monique’s great granddaughter and Bill’s and Mary’s great niece, Daphney Joy Laughlin. u Congratulations to Rhonda ColemanJackson who was awarded the Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree at the University of Oklahoma on Saturday, May 9, 2015.
u Bob and Barbara Neil as their niece, Carol Neil, undergoes physical therapy. u Johnny and Donna Powell as their daughter, Lauren Powell, deals with health issues.
u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Sr. Minister’s Discretionary Fund in memory of Maxine Holland by Jim Cross & Roberta Carrier Cross u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Earthglow in memory of Bob & Jo Gentry by Sheryl Dunham u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Earthglow in memory of Bob & Jo Gentry by Candyce Adams u A contribution has been made to The Servant Foundation, Inc. in memory of William N. Weaver by Peter & Terry Weaver u A contribution has been made to The Servant Foundation, Inc. in memory of Frank Gross by Peter & Terry Weaver
u Arthur and Charlene Richardson as Arthur recuperates from outpatient surgery.
u A contribution has been made to The Servant Foundation, Inc. in memory of William N. Weaver Jr. by Peter & Terry Weaver
u Dan Short as Dan recuperates from surgery.
u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministry in memory of Harrell Pickens by Joyce Gaige
u Doug and Ella Sprung as their granddaughter, Madison Sprung, deals with health issues.
u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Sr. Minister’s Discretionary Fund in memory of Robert Wilson by Jim Cross & Roberta Carrier Cross
u Larry, Cindy, and Lindsay Stacy as Cindy deals with health issues. u Bill and Nancy Whitten as Nancy deals with health issues. u Jeff, Lisa, and Mark Wedel as Lisa undergoes treatment. u Bill and Nancy Whitten as Nancy deals with health issues.
u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Care Ministry in memory of Ray Crooks by Bill & Jody Humes
Rhonda Coleman-Jackson Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree
u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministry in memory of Harrell Pickens by Transitions Class u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Care Ministry in memory of Pat King by Barbara Eskridge SERVANT May 20, 2015 I Page 7
Church of the Servant
14343 N MacArthur Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73142-9725
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
For more information, email Ali Soltani at asoltani@churchoftheservant.com