June 15, 2016
CHURCH OF THE SERVANT Bi-Weekly NEWSLETTER
Issue: 16.12
Free to Be...
I have been working to prepare the most recent sermons in our Free to Be… summer series. The sermons are based on Paul’s letters to the Galatians and the Colossians, and have required me to think deeply about the issue of wholeness as it relates to our lives. When asked what was the greatest of all the commandments within Scripture, Jesus responded: “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great a first commandment. And the second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Matthew 22:37-39) If you are at all like me, I struggle with such a whole-hearted devotion. I do love God passionately, but do I love him completely? Are there areas within my life where I have determined it is more comfortable to live with a degree of inconsistency than it would be to allow God to do the potentially painful work of clearing away the debris of a divided
heart?
In Galatians Chapter 2, Paul challenges the Apostle Peter (Cephas) to recognize a profound inconsistency in his ministry. Peter, born and raised as a devout Jew, had been willing to share in Christian fellowship with Gentile converts to the faith. But when Jewish friends arrived in Roman Antioch where Peter was working, he withdrew from his Gentile brothers and sisters— retreating into the safety of his old customs and traditions rather than braving the unknown world of the full freedom of faith in Jesus Christ. Paul, recognizing the destructive nature of Peter’s actions, called his fellow Apostle to task for his actions. Such a step requires a degree of courage. As a staff, we recently studied Stephen Covey’s book, The Speed of Trust: The One Thing That Changes Everything, because we recognize the critical nature of being consistent in our personal discipleship if we are to be effective in leading others to become fully
Rev. Randy Shrauner Executive Minister
devoted followers of Jesus Christ. Covey notes that integrity “also includes the courage to do the right thing—even when it is hard” (p.64) .Paul’s challenge of Peter was difficult. How would Peter respond? Likewise, it takes courage to admit a mistake and make the necessary amends. However, if we are to grow as disciples of Jesus Christ—and as a congregation in service to God— learning to love one another enough to both ask hard questions and to answer one another in love and humility will ultimately determine how God will work in our lives. My prayer for all of us, myself included, is that God will give us the courage to shine his light and love on the darkest corners of our souls. Learning to love God with a whole heart—undivided and unbroken—is a vision of true hope as to what God can accomplish in us. Come Lord Jesus, do your work within us. - Randy
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Mission Calendar Dates Month of June – Church-Wide Food Drive for Skyline
Missions
July 10-14 & 17-21 – Project Transformation: Reading with Children
Skyline Clothes for Kids Offering and Serving Opportunities If you are interested in serving for a couple of hours during the months of June and July by signing up families for uniforms or fitting students in uniforms at Skyline Urban Ministries, please contact Skyline at 632-2644 or E-mail: skyline@skylineurbanministry.org
Skyline Food Drive is a Success, Thanks to YOU! The VBS children had a great week and were so faithful to their mission project this year, bringing food and paper items for the Skyline Food Resource Center. The children brought 2,742 items and then last Sunday, the congregation added to the children’s food offering by bringing an additional 92 bags of groceries. Rev. Debbie Ingraham, the director of Skyline, was so moved by the enthusiasm behind the food drive this past week and has posted on the Skyline Facebook page with over 2,000 hits so far. “Church of the Servant’s example is one that maybe other local churches will follow this summer,” she said. Thanks again for all those who brought items and especially to the Boy Scout Troop 177 who came and packed all the items for Skyline’s pick up driver. Please continue to bring groceries throughout the month and put them in the grocery carts located in the concourse.
Mobile Meals is Looking For Drivers Mobile Meals is looking for a driver and delivery person or team for the first Saturday of each month. This is an opportunity to bless the older population of our city by delivering meals for a couple hours one morning a month. These meals allow these individuals to stay in their homes and receive not only a warm meal, but a bright smile from a kind person bringing the light of Christ in with a meal. If you are willing to fill this need please contact Cherie Dennis at cheriedennis@hotmail.com or 721-2045 (H), 641-5418 (C).
It’s Project Transformation Time Again! 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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Children Cave Quest VBS
THANK YOU to everyone who participated in Cave Quest VBS! We had an amazing week learning that Jesus – the light of the world – gives us hope, courage, direction, and love. Almost 600 kids and more than 150 volunteers learned about Jesus through stories, music, snacks, and games. The kids also brought items for Skyline Urban Ministries’ Food Resource Center – almost 1900 pounds worth! It was a competition between the girls and the boys to see who could bring the most and while the girls won, the patrons of Skyline were the real winners! Thank you to everyone who had a part in preparing for VBS. The kids loved it! And put June 5-8, 2017 on your calendar for our next VBS! Watch VBS Closing at: https://vimeo.com/170534624/8a70930d4b View VBS Photo Gallery at: https://servantokc.smugmug.com/Childrens-Ministries/VBS-2016/n-SmgBnW/
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 overthe-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 15, 2016 I Page 5
Missions A Big THANK YOU From Hannah’s Promise! Earlier this year we asked you as a congregation to support Hannah’s Promise with more one-on-one volunteers. Just like your usual generous selves, you came through and 28 people signed up as being interested. We’re happy to report that 11 have already been at Hannah’s Promise as volunteers! As a result, we’ve been able to take 3 families off the waiting list - one who had been on the list 4 years - a total of 9 new children coming to Hannah’s Promise. This brings our total active enrollment to 57! We still have 3 families on the list - 6 children in all - but it is our hope to have them off the list by the time school starts in August, using more of the new volunteers. Then, just this past week, two more families asked for applications for Hannah’s Promise. That would add 6 more children to the waiting list, which means we most likely will need even more volunteers! PICTURED (LtoR): Hattie & Gypsy – Hattie was 2 when she began coming to HP in July 2003. Her brother, Eli, was born into the ministry in April 2004. Gypsy is a wonderful therapy dog. Her owner has been bringing her every month to entertain everyone at HP since 2011. Hattie & Abby – Hattie again; Abby was born into the ministry in August 2014. At that time her 2 brothers, Isaiah and Jacob, had been coming since April 2011. James & Isaiah – James & Isaiah (one of the brothers above) have been a “Perfect Match” since October 2012. We were celebrating Heroes that night. Don & Mark – Mark was 8 when he began coming to HP in February 2002 (our 3rd month). He and Don have been a “Perfect Match” since then; they often go to games and other social events outside of Hannah’s Promise, often including Mark’s parents and Don’s wife. Mark will be 23 years old on July 4. Betty & Hannah – This picture was taken in August 2014 when the firemen down the street paid us a visit. Betty has been a volunteer, and missed very few HP evenings, since we began in December 2001.
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VOLUNTEER WITH HANNAH’S PROMISE
If you missed the invitation the first time, and think you could possibly give up 4 ½ hours once a month to enjoy an evening with a very special child, we would love to have you join us. We promise you, your life will be touched and changed by your commitment!
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.
WOMEN’S SUMMER STUDY with Dr. Robyn Goggs “Looking for Lovely”
Tuesdays, beginning July 5 at 9:30am Using a book by Annie F. Downs, we will examine biblical truths and examples of how others have courageously walked the path God paved for their lives, by remembering all God had done, loving what was right in front of them, and seeing God in the everyday – whether that be nature, friends, or the face they see in the mirror. No matter who we are and what path God has us on, we all need to look for the lovely, fight to finish, and find beautiful in our every day! We will meet in the Community Hall, 9:30-11am, for four Tuesdays in July. No registration needed; just come with your Bible and a pen. Childcare is provided if a reservation is made through scobden@churchoftheservant.com by June 30.
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 15, 2016 I Page 7
Adults
Earthglow As you make purchases from the beautiful Earthglow Gift Shop at Church of the Servant, you are not only finding terrific buys on useful gift items, you are also making a difference in our local missions. Today, we are highlighting one of the many organizations that has benefitted from your purchases. Neighborhood Services Organization (NSO) recently received a $5,000 contribution from the proceeds of Earthglow’s 2015 sales. NSO has a mission of transforming lives and encouraging independence through safe, healthy homes, dental care and nutrition. In a thank you note from NSO, they highlighted a story about Miss Mickey who is a resident of one of their housing facilities for homeless, single adults with a mental illness. Mickey, a bi-racial child of the 1950’s, was three years old when her mother dropped her off at the Baptist Children’s Home. Her mother told her she would be right back – but never returned. Mickey, the product of an extra-marital affair, was simply not wanted by either family.
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.
As Mickey grew, it became apparent that her mental capacity was that of a 6-year-old child and she suffered from an array of mental health diagnoses. Considered unadoptable in that era, Mickey was made a ward of the court and lived her life in orphanages, mental institutions, and was then released to the streets upon her 18th birthday. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, paranoia and later Parkinson’s Disease, Mickey lived years in public parks on the city’s south side. She had little or no access to support, medical care or the medications she desperately needed to control her symptoms. Mickey was identified as homeless and offered an apartment at NSO’s Palo Duro in 2003. A safe, healthy home, case management support and access to mental health services through NSO’s community partners has allowed Mickey to gain a stable environment in her own apartment. “NSO’s Palo Duro is home for me,” says Mickey with a huge smile. “I’m gonna be here ‘til my dyin’ day. They’re my family and life here is good for me.” Remember Earthglow when you are looking for a special gift. Your dollars go so much further than you can imagine!
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Our Prayers
Our Life Together
u Caleb, Shanna, Korde and Shaylee Allen and Gerrod, Christine and Theodore Whitehurst, as Theodore Whitehurst, deals with health issues. u David Anderson and Diana Hamby as David deals with health issues and faces surgery at Community Hospital. u Kathy Baldwin as Kathy recuperates from surgery. u Kinlee Farris as Kinlee deals with health issues and recuperates from a procedure. u Bill and Barbara Gideon as Barbara deals with health issues. u Dennis and Sally Gilstrap as Sally deals with health issues and undergoes physical therapy. u David, Sarah, and Jackson Krivy and Dr. Larry and Reba Seward as they ask for prayers for Sarah’s father and Reba’s husband, Larry Seward, as he deals with health issues. u Debbie Knight as Debbie deals with health issues and faces surgery at Deaconess Hospital. u Joe and Pam Lovell as Pam’s aunt, Bonnie Morton, deals with health issues. u Allen and Judy Marlin as Allen deals with health issues and is hospitalized at Integris Baptist Medical Center. u Kent and Glenda Potts as Glenda’s mother, Waunita Williams, recuperates from injuries from a fall; and Glenda’s sister, Carolyn Parker, deals with health issues. u Johnny and Donna Powell as Johnny deals with health issues and recuperates from surgery. u Randy and Jenny Shrauner as Randy recuperates from surgery. u George and Jane Ann Slane and Heather Slane as their grandson and nephew, Evan Slane deals with health issues; and as Heather deals with health issues. u Dan and Linda Trammell as Linda deals with health issues.
Our Prayers Continued u David and Mary Walker as Mary deals with health issues.
Our Sympathy
u Gene and Sarah Furnish and Family at the death of their brother-in-law. u Elizabeth Large and Family at the death of Elizabeth’s uncle, Don Large. u Carolyn Lowery, Debra Lowery, and Mark, Tammy, Isabella, Connor and Luke Beard at the death of Carolyn’s husband, Debra’s and Tammy’s father, Mark’s father-in-law, and Isabella’s, Connor’s and Luke’s grandfather, Al Lowery. u Carrington and Katelyn Tibbetts and Family at the death of Carrington’s husband and Katelyn’s father, Larry Tibbetts. u Nicholas and Nechelle Zoller and Family at the death of Nicholas’ grandfather, Harry Zoller.
Celebrating
u Robbie and Kristin Hersom at the birth of their daughter, Ellie Mae Hersom. The proud brother is Cole Hersom. The proud grandmother is Cathy Hersom. The proud uncle, aunt and cousin are Blake, Katie and Judson Middleton.
Sundays in the Kitchen Full Breakfast - $6; Lunch - $9; Kid’s Plate - $3.50
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 Senior Minister’s Discretionary Fund in memory of Claire Glenn by Patrick Glenn. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministries in memory of Sue Knight by Wanda Glenn. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Senior Minister’s Discretionary Fund in memory of Sandy Trudgeon by Mr. and Mrs. Lee Allan Smith. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministries in memory of Sue Knight by Jo and George Hall. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministries in memory of Sue Knight by Bill and Jody Humes. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministries in memory of Sue Knight by Cal and Terry Moser. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministries in memory of Sue Knight by Jeanine Gibbens. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Senior Minister’s Discretionary Fund in memory of Sandy Trudgeon by Jo and George Hall. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministries in memory of Sue Knight by Nancy Woods. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministries in memory of Sue Knight by Sue Boren. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministries in memory of Sue Knight by Ron and Sharon Hendricks. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministries in honor of Sandy Cashion by Ron and Sharon Hendricks. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Music Ministries in memory of Sue Knight by Mary Beth Emery. u A contribution has been made to Church of the Servant Senior Minister’s Discretionary Fund in memory of Sandy Trudgeon by Janet Price.
NEW AND OPEN 12-Step AA/ALANON MEETING: Thursdays, 7:15-8:15 p.m. in North Adult Room 7. All are welcome. For more information, contact Barbara Neil at 405-708-8522. SERVANT June 15, 2016 I Page 9
Church of the Servant
14343 N MacArthur Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73142-9725
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