June 1, 2016
CHURCH OF THE SERVANT Bi-Weekly NEWSLETTER
Issue: 16.11
DISCIPLESHIP
When I made my profession of faith and became a Christian, it felt really great. But the very next morning I got up and said, “What now?” The answer to that question is: Discipleship. Disciples follow a leader. Even more, they strive to live as that leader lives. For Christians, we strive to live as Jesus lived. Smart people get help doing the discipleship thing. We do it in community, a community we call “church.” The Discipline of the United Methodist Church puts it this way: In the midst of a sinful world, through the grace of God, we are brought to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. We become aware of the presence and life-giving power of God’s Holy Spirit. We live in confident expectation of the ultimate fulfillment of God’s purpose. We are called together for worship and fellowship and for the up building of the Christian community. We advocate and work for the unity of the Christian church. We call all persons into discipleship under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. As servants of Christ, we are sent into the world to engage in the struggle for justice and reconciliation. We seek to reveal the love of God for men, women, and children of all ethnic, racial, cultural, and national backgrounds and to demonstrate the healing power of the gospel with those who suffer (Paragraph 124).
Dr. Robert Gorrell Senior Minister
Here are some of the ways we do discipleship: We share the Gospel and welcome people into the church. We invite people to be baptized and to make a profession of faith. We nurture people in Christian living through worship, the sacraments and spiritual discipline. And we care for the sick, the dying, the hungry, the lonely, the oppressed, the vulnerable, and anyone in need. That, of course, is not easy. People who are serious about their discipleship get help. they seek the support and counsel of their fellow Christians. The way we disciple together here at Church of the Servant is pretty special. - Robert
Rev. Randy Shrauner Executive Minister
In this fourth and final installment of our discussion on the four strategic imperatives driving our ministries here at Church of the Servant, I want to talk about discipleship. Within our congregation we find brothers and sisters in Christ at all levels of maturity and understanding as to what a life devoted to following Christ requires of us. This truth is an exciting one as it means that people are coming to faith in Jesus Christ within our community. To this point in 2016, over one hundred men, women, and children have joined the church – some through transfer from other congregations and communities, but many through a first time profession of faith, or for our students, through an extensive confirmation class designed to help them step into a deeper relationship with Christ as their understanding and faith mature. Think back to that time in your life when you first came to know Jesus on a personal basis. For myself, I remember having a voracious appetite for knowledge and understanding. I couldn’t find enough material to read, or tapes to listen (yes, this was many years back!), or questions to ask of my pastor and Christian friends. It was never a question of me thinking that I needed to know “more” to be in relationship with Christ: it was simply that I recognized his love for me and the sacrifice he had made. And as a result, I wanted to know all that I could about this God and his hopes and dreams for me. Continued on page 8
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Mission Calendar Dates
Missions
Month of June – Church-Wide Food Drive for Skyline July 10-14 & 17-21 – Project Transformation: Reading with Children
It’s Project Transformation Time Again!
Hefner Teacher Appreciation Luncheon Was a Huge Success! Thanks for all your help on the Bless our Schools Teacher Appreciation Luncheon at Hefner Middle School on Wednesday, May 25. It was a hard day at the school as nine teachers were being released and two retiring due to the educational budget cuts of our state. Principal Mitchell said that these stresses were breaking her heart for the struggles the staff is facing and it was so wonderful to walk in on the last day of a challenging year to a fun-filled luncheon. Amber Neaves and her team of volunteers decorated the gym to look like a baseball theme with baseball hats and crackerjacks for each teacher. The salads and desserts were wonderful to go with their box lunches. A big hall of fame frame gave them an opportunity to take some end-of-the-year pictures at the celebration. We pray a restful summer for all the teachers in our community, and next year we will partner with Hefner again for teacher boxes and appreciation events as well as the weekly groceries we send home with students for their families. Here are some of the wonderful thank you notes we received: Wow!! Thank you for the great end of the year lunch. It was so much fun with all of the decorations, the “selfie” booth, and the food was wonderful. Church of the Servant has truly been a blessing for Hefner and we appreciate all you do. – Sandy Milborn We are SUPER thankful for everything your church body has given to Hefner and the way you have served the students and faculty so graciously! We appreciate it all very much. Thank you. – Angie Jernigan Just want to tell you “Thank you” so much for everything you have done for us this year at Hefner!! The last day lunch today was wonderful!! The room was decorated perfect and the food, salads and deserts were exceptional!! I was really surprised when I figured out that my own neighbors, Sharon and Bob Fowler, had taken my name this year and were always surprising me with a treat!! Thank you so much! – Karla Middleton
Church of the Servant has had a long history of partnering with Project Transformation, a literacy camp for lowincome children to help improve their reading level and their confidence. Every year, lives are changed, and the love of God and of learning are instilled in the hearts of hundreds of children. This year, we’re going back to the Chapel Hill UMC site to volunteer, but for two weeks this year! So, we need reading volunteers for Monday-Thursday during the weeks of July 11-14 (12:30 - 3:00 p.m.) and July 18-21 (9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.). It only takes a couple hours of your time to make a lasting impact on a child. In just those couple hours, you show them not only the awesome power of reading, but also that there are people in their community who truly care about them. I worked for Project Transformation last summer, and I could fill this whole newsletter testifying to Project Transformation’s power and successes. But instead, I want to encourage you to see for yourself. Please consider signing up for a two-day commitment to read with children and be a part of this ministry. If you can, please give me a call at (405) 728-4716, or an email at mcarpenter@ churchoftheservant.com. Let’s transform some lives! Rev. Michael Carpenter
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Hospitality Volunteers Needed!
“Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance… for I was a stranger and you invited me in.” (Matthew 25:34,35) Hospitality is central to who we are as children of God, and who we are at Church of the Servant. When I started here last year, everyone told me how this big church feels small because it is so warm and inviting. That is certainly a product of the entire church, but it is the deliberate mission of Hospitality Ministries. Have you ever wanted to be a part of making Servant the place of radical hospitality that we are called to be? Now is your chance! We are looking for 17 spirit-filled servants to join Hospitality Ministries! We have openings in every ministry area, from greeting at the entrances, to welcoming people into worship, to working the Welcome Center, and at various times that fit your worship schedule. If you have ever thought about serving in a dynamic, engaging, fulfilling ministry, contact Rev. Michael Carpenter at (405) 728-4716 or mcarpenter@churchoftheservant.com. Like Jesus said in Matthew 25, your ministry will glorify the Kingdom of God! Rev. Michael Carpenter Associate Minister, Hospitality Ministries
Music
KID’S MUSICAL PROJECT SUMMER CAMP – June 20-23
“SONGS WE LIKE”
A Summer Songs Concert
June 19, 6:30 p.m.
Featuring a new choral work based on “Westside Story” and selections by Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber. Plus, the orchestra will play “Rhapsody in Blue” and Synergy will perform selections from “Beautiful” the musical, based on Carol King’s timeless songs. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children (10 and under). Funds will go to support Music Ministry projects and student interns. Purchase your tickets in the Concourse on Sunday or online at www.churchoftheservant.com/events. Page 4 I ChurchotheServant.com
Calling All Kids entering Kindergarten – 5th grade (Fall 2017) for a fun musical experience! The COS Kid’s Musical Project will again sponsor the summer Kid’s Musical Camp June 20-23 - 9:30-12 noon. The musical, A NEW DAY, tells the story of how God makes every day new for us. In 4 days the kids will learn how to put together a praise musical. This is a great opportunity for the kids to invite their friends to church, so spread the word! Cost is $50 (1st child); $75 (2 children) and $90 (3 or more children). The performances will be June 23 at 6:30 p.m. Camp is again led by Paul and Brooke Gebb. Register online at www.churchoftheservant. com/events. Registration deadline is June 10. For more information or questions, contact pgebb@ churchoftheservant.com.
SERVANT KIDZ CAMP July 15-17 Canyon Camp (near Hinton OK)
Servant children, grades 1st – 5th fall 2016, are invited to Servant Kidz Camp! Camp will be held July 15-17 at Canyon Camp near Hinton, Oklahoma. The 48 hours is more than just church camp – it’s where lives can be changed, friends will be made and every camper will come home with their spiritual juices renewed. The 2016 theme is FRIENDS and the weekend’s activities are being designed around John 15:12 – “This is what I command. Love each other as I have loved you.” Why do we think our Kidz Camp is so special? Cathy Hersom, Director of Children’s Ministries shares, “As Kidz Camp is planned, special attention is taken to make sure that genuine community is experienced, ministry to the whole person takes place, relationships are built with God and others, memories and life commitments are made, and tomorrow’s leaders are being developed as fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.” This happens through a packed schedule which includes ageappropriate worship, small groups, activities that are designed to be boosters to everyday faith, and plenty of time in the sun. “I believe the single most important job a parent has is to help their child develop his or her own faith in Jesus Christ. Kidz Camp provides the opportunity for parents to support their child’s spiritual growth. And what is even better is that parents are encouraged to attend with their child and be part of this faith growing experience,” said Dr. Robert Gorrell, Senior Pastor at Church of the Servant. So that your child/ren don’t miss out on this meaningful and fun experience, REGISTER NOW!! Registration forms are available www.churchoftheservant.com/events or at the Children’s Welcome Counter. Camp registration fee is $150. A $25 non-refundable deposit per registration will hold a spot until July 6, when the remaining balance is due. Registration deadline is July 7. Comments from parents who have participated in Kidz Camp: • • • • • •
The live band and worship messages were all wonderful. Hard to pinpoint a favorite event – enjoyed it all! Awesome experience! Love that we (COS) had the camp grounds to ourselves. Great experience for kids and adults. Teens were so helpful and wonderful to all the campers. Great opportunity for friendship and worship.
Frequently asked questions: What time does camp start on Friday, July 15th? Check in time is 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Dinner is served at camp. Does the church provide transportation to/from camp? No. When do we pick the children up? Sunday, July 17 at 2:30 p.m. Can parents attend camp? Yes, we need parents to serve as small group leaders and cabin leaders. Contact Cathy Hersom at chersom@ churchoftheservant.com if interested.
Is there a camp fee for parents? No, but parents will be actively involved in the weekend’s activities by serving as small group leaders, cabin leaders, etc. Can teens attend as camp helpers? Yes, high school students can apply to be camp assistants by contacting Cathy Hersom at chersom@churchoftheservant.com. Is there a nurse on site? Yes, the camp nurse administers all prescription and over the counter drugs.
If you have questions about camp, please contact: Cathy Hersom, Director of Children’s Ministries chersom@churchoftheservant.com // 405-728-4715 SERVANT June 1, 2016 I Page 5
Missions Dear Church of the Servant and friends: For 6th grader Jonathan Lambert, and many other children like him around the world, going to school means hope. “I am really happy because sometimes this is the only meal I get for the whole day,” he said. “My parents are not able to buy me food.” The Stop Hunger Now meals Jonathan eats every day at school give him more energy to study and focus, and his grades have risen from B’s to A’s. Jonathan is only one of the tens of thousands of children around the world who receive Stop Hunger Now meals at school. By packaging meals with us, you have helped Jonathan grow and thrive. And because you shared your time with us, children have hope for their future, families can take a step out of poverty, and communities can prosper. We are delighted to announce that the meals from your meal-packaging event on May 1, 2016 have been shipped in a container totaling 285,120 meals from our Dallas/Fort Worth warehouse.
Stop Hunger Now Meals Have Shipped to Nicaragua! The meals will be received by our incountry partner Reach Now International in Guatemala. This shipment is being sent through Reach Now International to Fundacion Instituto Biblico Internacional (FIBI), a Nicaraguan non-profit. Fundacion Instituto Biblico Internacional was founded as a means to get children off of the streets of Nicaragua and into the classroom. FIBI serves over 3,200 children of Nicaragua in 14 public schools, 3 orphanages and 5 child-feeding centers. Their goal is to not only feed the children, but to also educate them and take care of any medical needs that they may have. Ruth Aruaz of FIBI states, “When the children do not attend classes, many stay illiterate, contributing to further poverty and less opportunities for them of having a better life. A child that is well fed does much better with his or her studies.” For more information on Reach Now International, please visit their website www. reachnow.net. Visit www.stophungernow.org for more information about how you can support Stop Hunger Now and continue your
Join our VBS Children In Supporting the June Skyline Food Drive
Our VBS mission this year is asking the children to bring items for the Skyline Urban Ministry Food Resource Center, which serves over 3,000 people each month! Skyline’s Food Resource Center operates as a “choice pantry” where the patrons can select their own foods, based on their family needs and food preferences. In the summer, the demand is high and the supply is low! Together with our children, we want to meet this need in our city! This Sunday in worship, there will be bags in the pews and at the doors. You are invited to take a bag home with you and fill it with groceries for Skyline. The most needed items are canned fruit, canned meat, peanut butter, and paper towels, but all items are welcomed! Return your bag next Sunday, June 12, and place it on the tables outside the worship spaces or in one of the grocery carts located in the Concourse. Thank you for supporting Skyline! Page 6 I ChurchoftheServant.com
involvement in the fight against hunger. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/stophungernow for updates, videos and photos from the field. Thank you for volunteering with Stop Hunger Now. We truly appreciate your dedication and commitment to the vision of a world without hunger. Gratefully, Jeff Jones Program Manager Stop Hunger Now Dallas/Fort Worth jjones@stophungernow.org
Earthglow Gift Shop Working 9 to 3, Our volunteers, their time they’re giving Selling gifts and cards And lots of special things for living. It’s a mission thing. Our profits are spread throughout the city. So come spend some cash, Get something cute, or fun, or pretty! Now it’s summertime. Folks forget Earthglow’s still a hoppin’ But it’s open still, So come in and do some shoppin’. Summer Hours: 9-3 Monday-Thursday 9-12 Fridays Sunday Mornings
SAVE THE DATE
Fall Women’s Retreat // September 30 - October 2 Chickasaw Retreat Center in Sulphur, Oklahoma
Women
Are you living with the stress of an overwhelmed schedule and aching with the sadness of an underwhelmed soul? Come join a study for Moms offered in two different groups beginning soon. Lysa Terkeurst, best selling Christian author, is learning that there is a big difference between saying “Yes” to everyone and saying “Yes” to God. In The Best Yes, she will help you: • Cure the disease to please with a biblical understanding of the command to love. • Escape the guilt of disappointing others by learning the secret of the small no. • Overcome the agony of hard choices by embracing a wisdom based decision-making process. • Rise above the rush of endless demands and discover your best yes today. This new study kicks off: Sunday, May 15 10:45 a.m. – The SMILE Sunday Group – North Room 6. This is a class for Moms, single or married, who are looking to connect with other Moms seeking to raise children with strong faith by growing and living it ourselves. Class is led by Kelly Bugg. Friday, June 17 for 6 weeks – Friday Mom’s Group in the 13:2 Coffee area. Meets 9:45 - 11:30 a.m. for fellowship, sharing, prayer, and this new study. Childcare provided. Class led by Kim Bilger and Meghan Thompson.
Summer with the Upper Room Study Wednesdays 9:30-11:00 a.m. Beginning May 11 South Adult Rooms 1 & 2 Looking for a place to connect with other women and the Word this summer, but know you might be out of town a week or two? Then this group is a perfect one for you! Using the Upper Room Daily Devotional, women gather to discuss with guided questions how the daily scripture readings of the last week have intersected with everyday life. Each week is a stand-alone week of learning and sharing in the Word. It is a great way to be connected to others this summer in study and prayer. Just show up with your Bible and the Upper Room Devotional which can be purchased in Earthglow. Led by Patricia Hocker and Debbi Marshall.
Lemonade Laughter
&
Please Save the Date!
Kindred Community : a sisterhood of widowhood Luncheon on Saturday, July 16, 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Invitation to follow) Id in SERVANT June 1, 2016 I Page 7
Adults
Christianity and World Religions Study Begins Tuesday, June 14 Are you wrestling with questions about other religions? In a new Bible study beginning June 14, we will explore four major world religions – Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Judaism – and compare the beliefs of each with those of Christianity. This six-week study deals openly and honestly with questions people ask about other religions, including why we should believe the claims of Christianity over those of other faiths. As part of the study, author and presenter Adam Hamilton interviews a religious leader from each tradition. He treats the world religions with great respect, recognizing the unique contributions of each. Please order your Christianity and World Religions online. John Farr will be teaching. More information online at www.churchoftheservant.com/connect/bible-studies/.
Young Adult Small Group Kickoff Event Are you a young adult under 30 and looking for a small group? Or do you know any 20-somethings at work or in your family who are looking for a group? Then mark your calendars for Sunday, July 24, at 5:00pm for a small group kickoff event! On that day, we’re welcoming all young adults, single or married, students or employees, Servant members and newcomers, to jump into a small group. These groups will be a real way to do life with people your own age and in situations like yours. These groups are authentic, focused, and powerful. So join us on July 24 as we kick off small groups and tackle the new book study, “Ask: Faith Questions in a Skeptical Age,” which wrestles with all of the questions millennial Christians ask, like “Can only one religion be true?” and “Can I trust the Old Testament?” For more information, contact Rev. Michael Carpenter at (405) 728-4716 or mcarpenter@churchoftheservant.com.
Discipleship ... Continued from page 2
Our Discipleship programming at Church of the Servant is going to be overseen by Dr. Robyn Goggs. In her years with us to this point, Robyn has had primary responsibility for Women’s Ministry and Missions. This expansion of responsibility to now oversee all of our adult discipleship is well deserved and is an important step forward as she brings to bear not only years of graduate and doctoral level theological training, but a profound set of pastoral sensibilities as well. Her relationships within the congregation provide the contact necessary to read the “heartbeat” of the church and guide her decisions as to what classes, studies, and educational opportunities will be made available. I look forward to sharing in these discipleship opportunities in the years to come as that hunger remains to bury God’s Word deep within my heart so that his work within me might continue. Where are you in your maturation as a disciple of Jesus Christ? As you take stock of your life, do you see an ever deeper, ever Page 8 I ChurchoftheServant.com
more personal and intimate relationship with God developing within you? Is there evidence of growth in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, understanding, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control? If not, what steps are you willing to take in order to place yourself in a position where God might work within you? One of the rarely stated truths of the faith is that there is no end point to our growth, no pending ceremony where God will hand us a diploma and announce that we have mastered it all. In truth, we will all spend eternity exploring the riches and fullness of this God who loves us so. Each day will provide a new insight, a new understanding, a new blessing, and a new “a-ha” moment as God invites us to share in his Kingdom. My hope for us all is that we will not wait for tomorrow to begin, but will start that journey together today. Be in prayer for Robyn, and for Church of the Servant as a whole as our Discipleship pathway becomes clear. And, find a place where you can plug into these wonderful opportunities. - Randy
Our Prayers
Our Life Together Our Prayers Continued
u Donna Armstrong as Donna asks for our prayers for her son-in-law and daughter, Val and Susan Menendez, as Val deals with health issues.
u Larry and Linda Nowlin as Linda’s mother, Fran Tysor, deals with health issues.
u Alan and Jo Ann Bahan as Alan recuperates from surgery.
u Harlan, Sebrina, Jozzlynne, Mikayla, and Zoe Sale as they ask for prayers for Sutton Hudgins and Axel Mendenhall.
u Jerry Black as Jerry recuperates from surgery and is hospitalized at St. Anthony Bone & Joint Hospital. u Lou Anne Blackburn as Lou Anne recuperates from surgery. u C.A. and Beryl Cadle as Beryl recuperates from surgery. u Bill and Leslie Cunningham as their grandson, Oliver Cunningham, recuperates from surgery in Texas. u Frank and Janie Cunningham as Frank deals with health issues. u Diana Franklin as Diana deals with health issues. u Keith and Carol Gill as Keith recuperates from surgery. u Mark and Carol Goodwin as Mark deals with health issues. u Lee, Juli, Emma, and Paul Hudson as Juli’s father, Gordon Pugh, recuperates from surgery. u Steve, Angie, and Jenny James and McKenzie Bursch as Steve’s & Angie’s sisterin-law, Lynn James, undergoes treatment. u Bonnie Kubiak as Bonnie asks for our prayers for her brother and sister-in-law, Fred and Ann Large, as Fred deals with health issues. u Bruce Lowrance and Leigh Ann CampbellLowrance as Leigh Ann recuperates from surgery at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center in Houston, Texas. u Sherry Melberg as Sherry deals with health issues.
u Sherri Rector as Sherri’s brother, Jerry Reese, is hospitalized at Mercy Health Center.
u Ron and Jean Waters as Ron is hospitalized at AMG Hospital (Mercy Health Center). u Nicholas and Nechelle Zoller as Nicholas’ grandfather, Harry Zoller, deals with health issues and is hospitalized in Florida.
Our Sympathy
u Susan King-Baker, Jerry and Shaney King, Mike and Denise Wilson, Rylee and Hunter King, Krystal Harper, Bryse Sels, and Colton Finley at the death of Susan’s mother, Shaney King’s and Denise Wilson’s grandmother, Rylee and Hunter King, Krystal Harper, and Bryse Sels great grandmother and Colton’s great great grandmother, Dianne Grimes. u Sandy and Kathryn Cashion and Family at the death of Sandy’s brother, Lamar Cashion. u Bonnie Kubiak, Dennis Kubiak and Cheryl Kerstetter and Family at the death of Bonnie’s sister and Dennis Kubiak’s and Cheryl Kerstetter’s aunt, Jenetta Summer. u Family and Friends at the death of Elaine Pardee.
Celebrating
u Sandy and Kathryn Cashion at the birth of their great grandson, Sawyer Gray Nance. The proud parents and brother are Daniel and Cierra Nance and Finn Nance. The proud grandmother is Lisa Cashion.
Sundays in the Kitchen Full Breakfast - $6; Lunch - $9; Kid’s Plate - $3.50
u 6/5 – Baked Chicken, Scalloped Potatoes, Green Beans, Salad, and Dessert. Kids Menu available. u 6/12 – Roast Beef, Mashers, Veggies, Salad, Dessert. u 6/19 – Meatloaf, Loaded Mashers, Corn, Rolls, Salad, Dessert. u 6/26 – BBQ Ribs, Baked Beans, Potato Salad, Bread, Dessert.
Celebrating Memories u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministries in memory of Sue Knight by Lemon Family Foundation.
u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Flower Ministry in memory of Paul Donat by Treasurers SS Class. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministries in memory of Sue Knight by Phyllis Armstrong. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Servant Foundation in memory of Lois Crooks by Jane and Jerry Gamble. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Care Ministries in honor of Parking Assistance Volunteers by Ralph and Neoma Shrauner. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Senior Minister’s Discretionary Fund in memory of Emma Stephens by Lizette Stephens. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Senior Minister’s Discretionary Fund in memory of Apollo by Pam & Barry Henthorn.
u Rob and Susan Mitchell as their friend, Martha Meyercard, deals with health issues. u Kay Nichols as Kay faces surgery at Integris Baptist Medical Center.
VBS STARTS MONDAY! REGISTRATION IS STILL HAPPENING! It’s not too late to sign up for CAVE QUEST VBS. VBS will take place June 6 - 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. each morning, and is open to kids age 4 to 5th grade (childcare is available for younger children of volunteers). Come downstairs this Sunday to the Children’s Welcome Counter and sign up to join the fun! SERVANT June 1, 2016 I Page 9
Church of the Servant
14343 N MacArthur Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73142-9725
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Join the Hospitality Team! Go to page 4 for more information.