Issuu

THE SERVANT

CONNECT EDITIO N NO. 21.07

JU LY 2021

MO NTHLY NEWSLE T TE R

DISCIPLE 2021

A NOTE FROM OUR SENIOR MINISTER

I’m excited about what is to come!

Dr. Matthew Mitchell Senior Minister

08-12 Missions at Servant

16-17 Finance Update

18-23 Servant Kids

24-30 Servant Students

SERVANT CONNECT

Can you believe the second half of 2021 has begun? With half the year behind us, the church staff is ready to share how the fall of 2021 will take shape. I hope you will be as excited as we are about the second half of this year. So much has been planned for you and our community. This newsletter will help all of us capture a glimpse of what is to come. Grab your calendars and be ready to save lots of dates! One of the most significant additions to the Church of the Servant calendar will be the introduction of Wednesday night meals. These meals will be an excellent way to reconnect with old friends and meet new people at Church of the Servant. Beginning on Wednesday, August 25 at 5:30 p.m., you will be able to gather with friends and family for a beautiful dinner in Community Hall. The meal will be served from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. before Wednesday night programming begins. The menus and pricing will be detailed in next month’s newsletter. Be sure to check your email and social media, as more details will be forthcoming in the days leading up to August 25.

Another addition to Wednesday Night programming will be teaching and fellowship from 6:30–8:00 p.m. during kids and youth programming. All adults are welcome to join the teaching and fellowship times. After such a long year, I fully believe it is time to gather up the people of our great church and come together for a time around the table. I have missed each of you so much, and I long for a new normal where we can be together, break bread, laugh, and grow together as a church family. Special moments of connection are being planned for this fall. Every area of ministry is intentionally developing ways for our church to reconnect and enter into the fall. Please take the time to read this entire newsletter so that you can share all that will be offered for us to worship, grow and serve in the final half of 2021. I cannot wait to see you! I long to reconnect, and I hope you do too. Getting ready,

Music Ministry Bible Study Beginning August 17 John Wesley felt congregational music was essential to the life of the Christian church. In 1761, he wrote out seven directions for singing. The third rule states, “Sing all. See that you join with the congregation as frequently as you can. Let not a slight degree of weakness or weariness hinder you. If it is a cross to you, take it up, and you will find it a blessing.” One of life’s greatest blessings is singing and worshipping Jesus Christ! No matter how mightily or poorly we sing, all of us have been moved in and by worship. If you love music, have participated, and/or wish to learn more about the music ministries of Church of the Servant, you are invited to a four-week Bible study on biblical worship. This Bible study will meet in Community Hall on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. beginning August 17 and running for four weeks. You do not have to register to participate. Bring a Bible, a notepad, and an earnest desire to sing, play, and worship the Lord!

Tuesday Morning Bible Studies Returning August 24 Buck and A Bible and Women in the Word will start back for the fall on August 24. Men’s Bible study will begin at 6:30 a.m., and women’s Bible study will be at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesdays in Community Hall. As the Bible Studies kick-off, please know the group time will be much more feasible in Community Hall as everyone will gather around tables to listen to and then discuss the weekly lessons. One difference this fall will be the classes will no longer have an online option. Plan to reunite with friends, or come for the first time! I cannot wait to see you at Bible study soon!

Chapel of the Cross Service Returning September 12 at 8:15am The 8:15 Chapel service is scheduled to begin on Sunday, September 12. If you have missed the Chapel service, grab your calendar, and mark the date! The service will be a forty-five-minute service with hymn singing, preaching, and Holy Communion served each week. Volunteers are needed to ensure the success of this service. If you would like to be a Liturgist, Usher, Communion Steward, Tech Volunteer, or know more, please contact Matthew Mitchell at mmitchell@churchoftheservant.com. Your involvement helping get this worship service up and running will be needed and greatly appreciated.

ServantOKC.org

Walk Through Bethlehem Crew and Cast First Call – September 23, 6:30pm Walk Through Bethlehem will be here before we know it. If you have participated in the past or you would like to be part of this year’s crew, plan to attend an important meeting on Thursday, September 23 at 6:30 p.m. in Community Hall. During this meeting, we will discuss everything from the village construction to the cast needed to make the village come alive. This year’s Walk Through Bethlehem will take place December 10–12. Save the dates, become part of the cast and crew, and help Church of the Servant share the beginning of the most remarkable story ever told!

Director of Worship Arts As a part of our plans moving forward, we are excited to announce that Matt Schinske will continue in his role as Director of Worship Arts here at Church of the Servant. Matt stepped into the position at the height of the pandemic. Over this past year, he has brought all his immense gifts and talent to bear in assembling the personnel and programming necessary to provide cutting-edge music supporting our worship as a congregation. In the months to come, Matt will be splitting time between his work with Darci Lynne (as her tour schedule reopens) and the direction of Worship Arts in all services here at Church of the Servant. We are extremely grateful that Matt is willing and able to continue to provide leadership to our musical programming as he lives into the call to ministry God has placed on his life. Be sure to congratulate Matt when you see him at work on a Sunday morning. He is a blessing to us all! Rev. Randy Shrauner Executive Minister

SERVANT CONNECT

Dr. Matt Schinske Director of Worship Arts

PRECEPT INDUCTIVE STUDY SERIES

THE BOOK OF JOHN THE GOD WHO CARES AND KNOWS YOU The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt Among Us . . . (John 1:14)! How well do you know the Son of God? Are you convinced that what He said about Himself is true? From beginning to end, John reveals Jesus as the Son of God. Come join us for an in-depth study on the Book of John. In 1979, I moved from Springfield, Massachusetts to Tulsa, Oklahoma for my husband Joseph to seminary at ORU’s. In 1981 after my son was born, I got a part-time job at Asbury UMC working in the nursery. There, a woman befriended me and invited me to a Precept Bible Study, but I kept turning her down saying, “Why do I have to study the Bible?” After all, my spouse was in seminary and I could ask him to explain scripture to me. After a year or so trying to get me into the Precept Class, I finally said yes to my friend, just to get her off my back. You see, I was afraid—I was afraid I would be called on to read. I had never been good at reading and that was the excuse I had always given. I had built up such a fear that it was strangling me from the inside. This fear also carried over into other areas of my life. Then the Book of James was offered, and I said yes. For the first time in my life, I found joy! Not the joy of the world, but the joy of knowing, I could depend on God for every need I had. God had opened my eyes to the power of the Holy Spirit who was teaching me the Word of God. I had always believed in a “God”, and had said yes to His Son, Jesus, in 1977, but did not understanding what an “intimate” relationship with God was about. As a former Catholic, I had never known that the only way to know God was through His Son. Well, needless-to-say, I finished James, as well as a few more studies. I found myself a changed woman–learning how to handle the Word correctly–being able to share

this joy that I had come to know and to walk it out in my life. Taking this class was the easiest thing I had ever done, and I started to take on a whole new identity—one that was in Christ Jesus. I could see that my salvation wasn’t just to be able to get into heaven, but my salvation was for heaven to be able to get into me—practicing each day. After 3 years of study, God called me to go to training to become a Precept Leader and to teach God’s Word —that was 1986 and I have not looked back. If you fear being in a Bible study, or think you have to “know” the Bible before taking a class, please know that I will never call on you to read; I will teach you the Inductive Method of study so you can learn God’s Word and apply its teachings to your life; and you will have fun. NO STRESS is my motto. If you don’t finish the homework, I understand. If you don’t want to talk in class, I understand. If you have questions and need answers, I understand. If you come to class when you don’t feel like it, that is where God will meet you—we are all busy, and God understands. Pray and ask God to show you if you need to be in one of two classes offered in September. John 20:30-31 says, “30 Therefore many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.” What will it take in your life for you to believe in His name and have life! Come study with us and find out! Nancy Harris

You must register for this study. REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS AUGUST 28, 2021. It is our hope that we will be in the classroom setting beginning Wednesday, September 8th at 9:30 a.m. and a Zoom class beginning Thursday, September 9th at 6:30 p.m. Upon registering for this class, you will be provided with an email that will let you know what you will need to bring to class. Email Nancy Harris at nancyquilter@cox.net for more information.

EVERYTHING WE DO IN LIFE SHOULD BE LINED UP WITH THE WORD OF GOD. IT IS OUR PLUMB LINE! To register, email Nancy Harris at nancyquilter@cox.net or text her at 405-420-5463. Please include name, address, cell number. COVID vaccinations and masks are required for in-person meeting.

ServantOKC.org

HOSPITALITY IS FOR

EVERYONE

Jessica King Director of Connections Questions about membership, Bible study, or how to get involved? Contact Jessica at jking@ServantOKC.org.

As we look ahead to the fall and beyond and as we continue to iron out the details of our future programming, there is excitement and anticipation in the air. We have been filled with such hope and delight in the things God is doing here at Church of the Servant. It has been a long and hard season in many ways, but it has also been a season of growth as individuals and as a church. God has been faithfully sending new families and individuals to our church family. People who are hungry and thirsty for the things of God, for the Spirit and the Truth. These souls are treasured blessings that we do not and cannot take for granted! As we have spent time reflecting on the people God has sent us during this season, as well as the people God will be sending in the months and years to come; we want to be ready as a church to welcome them with warmth and openness and ready to help lead and guide them on their journey of apprenticeship to Jesus Christ. One major way we can do that is to create a Hospitality Team

that is trained and equipped to welcome, inform, and bless each person who walks into the door of our building on Sunday morning and beyond. I want to invite each of you to continue praying about how God might use you to bless others through this important ministry. On August 8, we will have a training and restructuring meeting of our Hospitality Team. Whether you have served in hospitality before or not, you are invited. There is a place for each of you on this team. If you would like to register to participate, go to ServantOKC.org/TRAINING to sign up. If you are having difficulty doing that, you can call the church, and we will help you get registered. I look forward to working alongside you as we press on together. In Christ, Jessica King

HOSPITALITY TRAINING - Sunday, August 8, 12-2pm Register TODAY at ServantOKC.org/TRAINING or call 405-721-4141. 06

SERVANT CONNECT

BECOME A MEMBER! We are committed to coming alongside anyone who wants to move forward in their relationship with God. If you are interested in becoming a member of Church of the Servant, we welcome you and would love to help you make Servant a place you can call “home.” If you would like more information on membership, please contact Jessica King. ServantOKC.org/MEMBERSHIP jking@churchoftheservant.com 405-721-4141

Welcome NEW MEMBERS! It is with great joy that we celebrate the newest additions to our church family!

Rita Buford

Sarah Greene

Gary Howell

Barbara Hammons

Chandler Winner

Rene Rodriguez

Les Renner

Heather Morris

Debra Rodriguez

Dee Renner

Randall Stoner

Michael Wooldridge

Susan Robison

Brenda Stoner

Judy Wooldridge

Joshua Phelps

Jack Rosenberg

Hank Dowell

Lacey Hays

Robin Rosenberg

Kaye Dowell

Robert Bookout

Bob Johnson

Jackie Gray

Melinda Bookout

Janie Johnson

Jana Gray

Regan Johnson

Jerry Cotton

Mark Walker

Tara Martinelli

Nancy Cotton

Fran Walker

Andy Greene

ServantOKC.0rg

M F I S S I O N S

riday, June 25, was a busy day for Servant volunteers at two locations. Amber Neaves, who is our point person for the Bless Our Schools program, helped set up lunch in the blazing hot sun, for 75 kids. The principal at Martin Luther King Elementary School has created a 5-week summer STEAM program (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math). She knew how much the children have missed over the past year and a half due to COVID and decided to create this opportunity for them. Amber has served boxed lunches to the staff at MLK several times this past school year and hopes to do more in-person events this fall. On this particular day, Amber helped set up lunch and other activities for the children. A food truck added to the fun.

Currently, Church of the Servant is serving two elementary schools in NE Oklahoma City through Restore Schools, an arm of Restore OKC. The Seekers Sunday school class has been serving the teachers and staff at Thelma Parks elementary school for the last five years. This was a failing school and teacher turnover has been ridiculously high. The class has been going in each nine weeks and serving a delicious homemade meal and appreciating and loving on the teachers and all the staff. The teachers appreciated the catering in this time of COVID. It should be mentioned that over the course of these five years teacher retention has improved a great deal.

SERVANT CONNECT

BLESS OUR SCHOOLS

TEACHER SUPPLY BOXES As we all pray for a normal start to school for the children of our area Servant would like to once again, distribute boxes to be filled with school supplies to the staff at an elementary school. This year we are partnering with Martin Luther King and Thelma Parks OKC Elementary Schools through Restore OKC. Supply boxes can be picked up at church on Sunday, July 18, July 25, and returned by August 1. There will be additional volunteer opportunities through Restore Schools which will be detailed once fall semester COVID policies are in place for the OKCPS. They include Classroom Care Team volunteers in which a SS class or other group of people adopt a classroom teacher. Amber Neaves and Judy Murnan also plan to provide a homemade appreciation lunch served by volunteers to the staff at Parks and MLK 3-4 times throughout the school year.

SATURDAY WORKDAY AT RESTORE OKC

On the 2nd Saturday each month, f rom March through October, Restore OKC hosts volunteers who are assigned to work either in the Community Gardens, the schools, or doing home repairs. All ages and skill levels are welcome. In June, I took three of my grandchildren; they were enticed by the donuts before work began and lunch provided by Restore afterwards. This workday happened to be the largest turnout they have had; about 150 people showed up! Caylee Dodson, Exec Director, welcomed us, and the President of their Board gave a powerful devotion about working together to see communities thrive, encourage mutually-beneficial relationships that challenge, sharpen & change one another, and unity be the thing which marks us. Restore Farms is where we worked, and it is directed by Dr. Ann Miller. She employs 17 interns this year at $8.00 an hour. If they stay with the program f rom middle school to graduation, they have most of their college expenses paid to one of several colleges. We met an intern named Shy and she was anything but shy! She is 14 and this is her second year working in the program. She asked my grandchildren what their future goals were and told us about hers! Come join us. Go to RestoreOKC.org to volunteer or for more info about their programs. Ann Knutson

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THE MARKET AT EASTPOINT PARTNERS WITH RESTORE OKC

You may have seen on the news ads for a credit union called True Sky. They are expanding in the OKC area and wanted to introduce themselves to their neighbors in NE OKC. They partnered with RestoreOKC to buy each shopper’s food the week of June 21. One day, they purchased 35 items for each customer f rom 8-10am. The next day, they purchased as many items as would fit in two shopping bags. And finally, they purchased all the food shoppers had on Thursday. The Market sold over $65,000 worth of groceries that one day! The only problem is that the cupboards were now bare!

M I S S I O N S 10

A few quick texts for help resulted in a fun, fun group of amateur people re-stocking the shelves! Everyone gained a great deal of appreciation for the job stockers do. Bar codes must be matched (and they are very tiny), they must be placed in a pleasing manner and frozen foods are COLD to handle! We met some of the staff of The Market which opened this past April. Thelma (yes, her middle name is Louise) is a checker and visited with us as we waited for the ref rigerated truck to be unloaded. Zoe and Tiffany are two stockers who patiently showed us where an item went even though we swore we had looked in that exact place! Erwin is one of the managers and he walked in with us at 7AM with a box of donuts and got the coffee started. To add to the craziness, the STEAM students f rom MLK in yellow t-shirts (see article on page 08 about STEAM) stopped by for a tour of the neighborhood store! Ann Knutson

SERVANT CONNECT

S! E T I S G N I MOV We have some exciting news to share about the future of Servant’s commitment to Whiz Kids. After 10 years of Church of the Servant successfully partnering with Wesley United Methodist Church, we have made the decision to move closer to home. There are several reasons that contributed to our decision: the school we had last year (Eugene Fields) already has another site working with them, we have no returning students as they all moved on to middle school, the long round trip drive that many of us make from this area of town to Wesley, adds to the commitment significantly and lastly, there are some personal and family health issues that we have to consider. So moving forward, here is the good news!! This coming fall, we will be starting our new Whiz Kids site with New Hope UMC, 11600 N. Council Rd. Our new school, which

has never had a Whiz Kids site, is Ralph Downs Elementary, 7501 W. Hef ner Rd. The Principal at Ralph Downs is Susan Illgen. She is super excited and pledges to do whatever she can to have a Whiz Kids site. We leave Wesley with gratitude and many thanks for all the good years, and we look forward to a bright new future of helping kids by partnering with with New Hope and your continued support. Look for more information soon about the opportunities to serve with our new site by joining the family of Whiz Kids volunteers. Blessings, Carolyn Hays & Shirley Rolston Your Whiz Kids Coordinators

VOLUNTEER THIS SUNDAY! Come join us in the 13.2 Coffee Shop on Sunday mornings! If you can push a button, you’re qualified! Shifts are 8:30 - 9:45 and 10:15 - 11:30. It’s a fun way to serve AND it gets you to church on time! 😊 Contact MJ Means for details at mmeans@churchoftheservant.com or 405-306-1169.

ServantOKC.org

EXODUS HOUSE

NEWS AND UPCOMING EVENTS You may have seen on the news ads for a credit union called True Sky. They are expanding Exodus House OKC is a transitional home for those being released f rom incarceration. It is an outreach program of Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministries (CJAMM), a 501(c)3 located in Oklahoma City. “With Oklahoma being one of the highest incarceration states in the world, it is important for us to have programs that help individuals have healthy, safe, and supportive places for transition back into society” said Keith Dobbs, Executive Director for CJAMM. The MVC (Most Valuable in Christ) Class has sponsored an apartment for about 2 years. They recently hosted a cookout at Exodus for the newest resident, Markie for her birthday. Markie works at M-D Building Products and has 2 children: Cash (13) and Marlie (12).

M I S S I O N S

The staff of Exodus House will be visiting Church of the Servant later this summer and talking more about the program but in the meantime we wanted to share some things that other classes or groups might be able to help with: • • • • • • •

Provide a Tuesday night meal to Exodus to about 12 people (depending upon the number of current residents). Provide sandwiches and assist Exodus residents in serving dinner to inmates at Penn Ave Redemption Church, one Thursday a month at 5pm (36 ppl) Teach life skills classes to residents: cooking, budgeting, buying a car, health & diet, etc. Donations of raffle prizes and baked goods for their Exodus Reunion on August 7. Donations so they can have printed T-shirts for all residents and alumni Re-stock all apartments with matching pots, pans, dishes, small appliances, housewares and silverware (15 apartments at approx. $150 each) Work days - Typically groups come on Saturdays, but it can be most anytime if they check with Robin Wertz, the Director.

Facility improvements needs: • • • • • • • • •

Flameless and stationary mosquito repellent for courtyard 6 Sirens for drills Doorbell for office 6 Fire extinguishers Replace outside soffits Solar lighting for flower beds and on stairs for power outages Yard lights and motion lights for garage, parking lot and f ront of facility New garage door f rame Basketball court/hoop/balls

Donna Powell would love to visit about any aspect of Exodus House, she can be reached at 405-637-6490 or okiepowell@yahoo.com.

SERVANT CONNECT

CONGREGATIONAL

CARE

WHEN A CIRCLE OF SUPPORT COMES FULL CIRCLE One of my biggest joys, during my three decades of full-time ordained ministry, has been facilitating support groups that make a huge difference in people’s lives. When I was in my twenties, I was able to locate a specialized support group that was invaluable to me. I just happened to live close to one of the only groups of its kind in the whole state in which I lived. It was God’s way of providing grace and help to me when I needed it the most. Down through the years, I have found that the two support groups I lead here at Church of the Servant have been crucial to so many of our people at just the right time in their lives. God often provides encouragement for us, and it’s often through the words, presence, and listening ears of people who have been through experiences similar to ours. That’s why I love to offer these kinds of group meetings for people in our congregation and in our community. For instance, there’s a particular woman in our congregation who feels like she benefited so much from the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregivers’ Support Group (which we formed in 2017 and is still going today) that she wanted to remain part of the group, long after her husband passed away with Alzheimer’s. She felt called to be there for others who were on the journey she had traveled. Furthermore, she decided she’d be trained as a hospice volunteer as a way of “paying it forward” as she remembered what a difference such help made to her & her family members when they needed it. She also participated in the Grief Support Group and connected with people after her husband passed away. In addition, one of her daughters–who had attended the Alzheimer’s Caregivers’ group along with her–is now a trained facilitator for that same support group. In this way, the support groups we offer start a whole cycle of sharing support, caring, and grace. It’s so thrilling to watch how a circle of support that has buoyed us up during the times when we needed it the most also leads us to tap into our own gifts and graces, which we can then share for the benefit of others. It’s as if the “circle of support” comes “full circle” when it wraps back around to us giving support to others! Blessings and peace to you! Rev. Tim Travers Minister of Congregational Care

ALZHEIMER’S & DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS’ SUPPORT GROUP Do you have a loved one who is dealing with Alzheimer’s or some other form of dementia? If so, we invite you to come to our support group, which meets on the third Tuesday of each month (2:00-3:30 PM) at Church of the Servant (in the South Conference Room). The meeting dates for the next few months are: July 20; August 17; Sept. 21. Our group is an official support group offered by our local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, and our group facilitators have been trained by that same local chapter. The group is open to anyone in our community whose family has been affected by dementia. You can register by contacting Vicki Roberds at (405) 728-4738 or vroberds@servantokc.org. Whether your loved one is living at home, or if they’re a resident at a care facility...either way, we hope you’ll consider attending. If you need care for your loved one during the time you’re at the meeting, you’ll need to make your own arrangements for that care. There’s no cost to register for the group. We hope you’ll consider staying connected with others who are going through a similar experience that you are. A burden that is shared is always a burden that becomes lighter. Come and see what kinds of blessings come your way when you become part of the giving and receiving of support.

Tim Travers Minister of Congregational Care

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP FOR SUMMER-FALL 2021 Have you experienced the death of a loved one? If so, we invite you to be part of our Grief Support Group, beginning on Thursday, August 19, 2021. We’ll meet in person again! The course will last for 13 weeks, going through November 11. We’ll meet each Thursday afternoon (2:00-3:30 PM) in the South Conference Room at Church of the Servant. Perhaps it was just recently that you experienced the loss of a loved one...or maybe you’ve been on your journey of grief for a long time. Either way, we think you’ll find it quite helpful to connect with others and benefit from mutual support. We utilize the Grief Share curriculum, which is Christian-based. There’s a helpful video each time, and there’s always plenty of time for sharing and discussion. There’s no cost for the course, and each participant will receive a complimentary workbook. If you’d like to register for the group, just call Vicki Roberds at (405) 728-4738 or email her at vroberds@servantokc.org.

ServantOKC.org

FACILITIES UPDATE It wasn’t really until the springtime that we fully realized how bad the damage was from both storms.

D Eric Nance Director of Facilities

SERVANT CONNECT

o you remember the October ice storm? I suffered tree damage just as many of you did. The church also sustained tree damage. Followed by a record polar air event, the church took some major damage. The church has around 4 acres of lawn and planting beds. The damage was extensive. We quickly made a call to Matt Moyer, owner of Moyer Lawn Care. They came out and spent a few days here cleaning up the broken limbs. It wasn’t really until the springtime that we fully realized how bad the damage was from both storms. If the ice didn’t affect the plants, the record cold did. We worked with Matt Moyer on a plan to put the church on a road to recovery. A few weeks ago, Matt’s crew showed up and spent a week and a half cleaning up the plant beds, trees, courtyards, parking lot islands, the sign out front, and repairing our sprinkler system. I cannot thank Moyer Lawn Care enough for the incredible work they have done at Church of the Servant.

The interior plant team has also been busy inside the church. They continue to give great care to our wonderful garden. This dedicated group is here weekly spending time watering, pruning, and cleaning our interior plant beds. Juan Galvan has also been adding new mulch to all of our beds. In the lower level Children’s area, Juan and I have been painting the large gathering rooms. Warm World, Starbright, and the Nursery worked with Interior Designer Beth Russ picking new paint colors. During the early pandemic, much of the church was painted, all of the Sunday School areas, The Point, Community Hall, and the concourse areas. These are just a few of the projects the Maintenance team has been working on. It is exciting to see so much life happening at Servant! There is so much more to come. God is still at work within our Church! Eric Nance Director of Facilities

EARTHGLOW GIFT SHOP HOW DOES SHOPPING IN EARTHGLOW HELP OTHERS? Three of the local Missions that

successfully break generational

we donated to last year, based on

cycles of prison, addiction and

your purchases, had this to say:

criminogenic behavior.” ( Our donation was to Exodus House)

“Thanks to your support, during NSO’s (Neighborhood Services Or-

“We are grateful for your support

ganization) 100th year of service,

as it is the foundation which

our doors never closed; our servic-

changes the story of children,

es never ceased. Your gift means

youth, and families in crisis across

we have the resources we need

the state.” Circle of Care

to continue to pivot and expand programs to serve our neighbors in need.”

derful variety of gifts, books and food items. Come in soon. We are

Help us help others in our very

currently open Tuesday, Wednes-

own community by shopping in

day and Thursday from 9-1. Sun-

Earthglow, the shop in the con-

days we open before and after the

“We sincerely appreciate your

course. All of our workers are

9:30 service. We will return to our

donation… an investment in lives…”

volunteers with a common goal of

regular hours in September. As al-

CJAMM (Criminal Justice and

raising funds to help those who

ways, we appreciate your support.

Mercy Ministries) continues to

are facing real life crises daily.

model Christ’s love in an effort to

Will you join us? We have a won-

Brand new children’s book, hot off the press, by our own member, Yvonne M. Morgan… ABC’S FROM THE BIBLE. Children will want to turn the pages to find out what each letter stands for in this delightful (and beautifully illustrated) book. At the end of the alphabet, there is a section on teaching children about our Faith. This book, as well as others by Yvonne and other church members are available in Earthglow.

NOVEMBER 13 | 9 AM - 3 PM Earthglow Gift Shop sponsors a market each fall, which includes gifts, holiday and home décor, both handmade and commercial. Proceeds from booth and table rental, food/bake sales, as well as the profits from the Gift Shop, go to local missions. Over our history, Earthglow has donated over $911,000 to various missions in our community. Your participation in our Earthglow Market has made a valued contribution to this effort! Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 13. For more information about booth rental, go to ServantOKC.org/EarthglowMarket.

ServantOKC.org

FINANCE UPDATE

id-year financial updates are always the highlight of a July newsletter, especially when there is something special to celebrate, which, praise God, we do! I want to bring you up to date on three aspects of the “business” life of the congregation: 1. Where we stand on the current operating budget. 2. Where we are on the sale of the corner property and the capital repairs those funds will facilitate. 3. The future of the capital campaign to finance much-needed renovations across our campus.

CURRENT OPERATING BUDGET

Rev. Randy Shrauner Executive Minister

While we have not yet closed the books for June, every indicator points to our finishing the first half of 2021 at approximately $200K better than the budget established at the beginning of the year. This position is the combined result of two factors. First, the congregation’s financial support has outpaced expectations each of the first six months of the year-to-date. And secondly, we have managed to control cost and cash outlay, holding that aggregate number under our initial projections. While it would be irresponsible to project continued monthly gains based on this sixmonth total, our expectation remains that this surplus is stable and not a result of either advance giving or delayed expenses. I can confidently state the steady financial faithfulness we have come to expect from Church of the Servant throughout its history remains fully intact. As we continue to move beyond the experience of the pandemic and look forward to new opportunities to live into the call God has placed upon our life together as a congregation, this financial security opens doors upon which a less stable church could not capitalize. We are blessed to have the monetary breathing room necessary to move forward, and we will continue to manage your precious gifts, tithes, and offerings to the best of our ability.

THE SALE OF THE CORNER PROPERTY One of the most exciting developments of 2021 remains the contract with Focus Federal Credit Union to purchase the South-East corner of our property. We are now in the process of moving from contract to closing as Focus Federal is completing the necessary title examinations and surveys. With our full support, Focus Federal is soon to go before the Oklahoma City Planning Commission for the variance required to the Planned Use Development of the site. While we have hurdles yet to clear, we see no reason why we cannot maintain a confident expectation of a completed sale at some point early this fall. In anticipation of this cash influx, we are actively developing a thoughtful set of long-term repairs to our facility. We are currently completing an in-depth

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examination of water intrusion points into the building (both from above and below). We are looking toward the planned replacement of the Celebration Center roof, gathering bids for the repair of our parking lot and exploring numerous other significant updates. We desire the “bones” of our facility—all the essential but often hidden or invisible systems—be in top shape at the end of this process, allowing us to be the church we need to be in the decades to come.

THE FUTURE OF THE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN Shifting our focus from the short and intermediate timeframes (the operating budget and the necessary capital repairs) directs us to the long-term renovations and updates to the facility. At the close of 2019, the congregation pledged $4.3 million toward this end. The uncertainty of the pandemic required us to put a hold on the process in the early months of 2020. Even so, over $800K of those initial pledges have been collected and are held securely in a segregated account. As we reengage the campaign, we recognize the needs of the congregation have changed. Working under the direction of the Leadership Board, the Building Committee is collaborating with Cooper Project Advisors and Thomas Small of SPACE Architecture to develop a set of design concepts moving forward. We expect to have the details of this overall plan in place by late August. At that point, they will be available for consideration by the congregation, leading to a decision by the Leadership Board as to whether or not we move forward. Because the congregation’s needs have changed, the plans upon which the initial $4.3 million of pledges were established have also changed. There will be elements of the initial plan which will continue, features of that plan we will necessarily eliminate, and new aspects which we will incorporate in the design. In light of these changes, we believe it proper and necessary to re-do the entire financial campaign. Families having

made initial gifts to the campaign will have the opportunity to direct those gifts to the new project or, if they so desire, have returned any or all of those monies previously contributed. Likewise, all unpaid pledges to the former campaign will have the opportunity to roll existing commitments into the new project, increase or decrease the initial amount, or altogether cancel the initial pledge. Much work and many conversations are necessary in the months to come. Our commitment is to complete transparency–from design to Leadership Board approval to completion--as we move through this process. God continues to place Church of the Servant on a secure and stable financial footing. From the short term of our monthly operational needs of the congregation to the intermediateterm requirements of necessary maintenance and repair to renovations preparing us for the next forty years of ministry to Oklahoma City we see God’s provision in real time. Thank you for your financial faithfulness to all that God is doing in and through us as his people. Blessings in Christ Jesus, Rev. Randy Shrauner Executive Minister Church of the Servant

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SERVANT KIDS Report LOOK WHAT WE DID... WATER DAY: FUN IN THE SUNDAY! Kourtney Aller Director of Servant Kids

On June 13, preschool and elementary kids met for a fun day of water games. The kids played on the inflatable water slide, on a slip and slide, and with various water toys. We also had some bubbles and chalk fun! We cooled off on a hot day with popsicles and water activities. A fun time was had by all!

KANAKUK KAMPOUT! During the week of May 31 - June 4, we hosted our first week of Kampout! We had around 100 kids and 40 staff members in our building for a time of learning about and worshipping Jesus, small groups, games, water activities, ziplining, rock wall climbing, and so much more! We can’t wait for the second session during the first week of August!

Josh Snodgrass Assistant Director of Servant Kids

UPDATE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS AND OTHER INFORMATION, SO YOU DON’T MISS OUT ON COMMUNICATION ABOUT EVENTS! CONTACT KOURTNEY TO CHECK OR UPDATE YOUR INFORMATION AT KALLER@SERVANTOKC.ORG OR 405-728-4715.

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JULY HAPPENINGS... PRESS PLAY

SUNDAYS IN JULY AGES 3 YEARS THROUGH KINDERGARTEN We don’t want trusting God to be hard for our preschoolers. God has done so much to show us that we can trust Him. That is why we are going to continue teaching our preschoolers that they can Press Play and trust God with everything. The music, the dancing, and the instruments continue this month. And, most importantly, we have more true stories from the Bible of people who show us why we can trust God. We want preschoolers to trust that God is always with them. We want them to look to Jesus so He can show them they can trust God. We want them to put on the armor of God and trust Him to use it to make them strong. And, we want them to trust that nothing can ever separate them from God’s love. It is our prayer that they will always remember all of the reasons why they can trust God. As our preschoolers grow up and life begins to feel a little uncertain, we want to make sure they know they can Press Play and trust that God loves them, has a plan for them, will use them, and has the power to do anything in their lives. Our memory verse this month comes from Proverbs 3:5 and says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart.” This month, we will learn that we can trust God because He is always with us and He helps us stand strong. Jesus shows us we can trust God. Who can trust God? I can trust God!

PRESS PLAY: GET IN THE MIX SUNDAYS IN JULY GRADES 1-5

This month, we will continue to learn about the connection between CONFIDENCE and God’s character, as shown through God’s big story. Confidence is a response to the character of God. When it comes to confidence, we might try and base it on what we do well or what a teacher or parent might say about us. But true confidence should be built on something that lasts forever. We think that’s found in understanding how God sees us. God created us, and God loves us. Nowhere is this more evident than in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. And, when you put your confidence in Jesus, you can truly see yourself how God sees you. Our memory verse for July comes from Philippians 1:6 and says, “Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Jesus Christ.” We will discuss how we can trust that God is always with us and how to stay focused on Jesus. We can use what God has given us to stand strong. We will learn how God loves us no matter what. We can’t wait to see you this month to learn about confidence!

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STILL TO COME... SAVE THE DATE FOR SOME FUN EVENTS HAPPENING SOON!

JUMP IN WITH JESUS (AUGUST 13-14) Servant Kids Day Camp, Jump in with Jesus, is a weekend VBS-like experience for kids in incoming kindergarten through fifth grades. •

Friday, August 13th from 5:30-8:00pm (dinner provided)

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Saturday, August 14th from 9:00-3:00 (breakfast, lunch, & snacks provided)

Our time together will include Bible lessons, games, crafts, small groups, and more! Participants will receive a t-shirt. The cost is $10, which includes supplies, meals, and a shirt. Register online by July 30th! Let’s get ready to end our summer together by making a splash with Jesus!

PROMOTION SUNDAE (AUGUST 15) We will celebrate the promotion of kids to their next grade level with some sweet ice cream treats during the 9:30 or the 11:00 service! This exciting Sunday will be a time of celebration as we begin a new school year. The big change on this Sunday will be that the outgoing kindergarteners who are currently meeting downstairs with Ms. Dayna will start meeting with the elementary kids upstairs in The Point Student Center (south side of church). These incoming first graders will check-in downstairs like usual on that morning but will then be brought to The Point. That is where parents will bring their security tags to check-out their kids after the service.

SERVANT KIDS MEETS ON SUNDAY MORNINGS! Kid’s Ministry is meeting in person at 9:30 and 11:00 each Sunday morning. Kids who are in incoming grades 2-5 will meet in The Point Student Center on the south side of the church. Check-in stations are located at the entrance to The Point and parents will need to be present to check-in their kids and get name tags and parent security tags. You can check them out after the worship service by bringing your parent sticker. Preschool, outgoing Kindergarten, and nursery aged kids will meet downstairs for check-in and for their activities.

FAMILY GAME TIME (AUGUST 15) 4:45-6:30PM Families (and their friends) are invited to a super-fun, highly interactive game time on Sunday before the Back-to-School Bash! The entire family is encouraged to dress in their best Luau attire (think Hawaiian shirts, leis, etc.) and compete in activities against other groups. This friendly competition will end with families heading outside for the Back-toSchool Bash on the south lawn. Prizes will be awarded for best family outfits/costumes, points earned during games, most enthusiastic group, and a few other “surprise” categories. We can’t wait to see you there!

BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASH (AUGUST 15) 6:30-8:00PM Immediately following Family Game Time, we will meet on the Servant Lawn (located on the south side of church) for dinner, games, treats, and fun! This will be a great time to hang out with others, eat a meal together, and enjoy some fun activities for all ages. Families are encouraged to invite friends to this event as we celebrate the beginning of a new school year!

ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM! SIGN UP FOR TEXT ALERTS BY TEXTING @SERVANTKI TO 81010.

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STILL TO COME... SAVE THE DATE FOR SOME FUN EVENTS HAPPENING SOON!

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KANAKUK KAMPOUT | August 2-6 Register now for Kanakuk Kampout! this summer! The dates are August 2-6. The cost is $275 and kids ages 5-12 are invited to attend. Registration is open at kanakuk.com. If you want more information on how you can get a full scholarship for the week, contact Kourtney at kaller@servantokc.org.

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SERVANT STUDENTS 6TH - 12TH GRADE JESUS, YOU CHANGE EVERYTHING:

DISCIPLE 2021 YES, He does. This song of worship echoed throughout Camp Heart o’ Hills on that Thursday night as Disciple Camp 2021 kicked off. Our small yet mighty crew of middle school students gathered with several other churches to worship the Lord, learn more about His Word and His Son, and to grow closer as a community and body of believers. The weekend was nothing short of amazing. From hilarious games, to sweet small group times, to powerful praise, to strange competitions, to convicting messages, to good times at the pool, to a color war to remember – Disciple Camp 2021 was a weekend like no other.

Heather Winner Director of Servant Students

Our students dove into small groups with other students from churches all over the state. Without holding back, all of our students began making new friends and forming bonds made to last. On top of this, students were led by Spirit-filled leaders who pushed them to really think about their faith and what it looks like in our world today. Small groups looked at the story of Daniel and what it looks like to be set apart rather than set against the world. Daniel was known for his loyalty to his faith and our gracious God in the face of great adversity. Daniel’s holiness is rooted in humility. As a camp, groups explored how these character traits can be extremely valuable in the lives of young people as students are often trying to navigate how to fit in and they are exploring the kind of people they want to be. This time was incredibly important and the priority set before all other parts of camp. Along with an incredible message, Disciple had so many moments for students to connect through games and activities like low ropes, volleyball, basketball, and the pool. Along with these activities, students were led in games for the entire camp that included obstacle courses, frozen t-shirts, relay races, loads of shaving cream, a cheer competition, and so much more. In these times, students built friendships for the future and memories they will never forget!

Skyler Rodriguez Assistant Director of Servant Students

Would you like more information about Servant Student Ministries? Contact Heather at hwinner@ServantOKC.org or Skyler at srodriguez@ServantOKC.org.

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In all things, it was an honor looking around the room, hearing the words of “Jesus, You Change Everything” declared by every person. It is so true – after one summer of no camp at all and a whole lot of uncertainty – it is Jesus Christ that transforms us and reminds us that He is in control. What a beautiful thing to remember in all times. Heather Winner

DISCIPLE 2021 Camp was incredible! But don’t just take our word for it – here are some of our students testifying of the good things they found at Disciple 2021:

Two of our 7th graders, Abigail Stutzman (left) and Graycen Dunn (right) just before heading into worship on one of the first nights of camp. After camp Abigail said, “I loved camp this year! My favorite part was worship. One thing that I took away from this experience was the fact that we have all sinned, but because Jesus sacrificed himself for us, our slates are wiped clean.”

Lily Strain, 7th grade, with the beloved Walter the rubber chicken, also had an amazing weekend at camp. She specifically loved getting out of her comfort zone stating, “I had fun getting to know the girls in my cabin and getting to build new friendships and even getting to know my leaders better. I learned that it’s fun to try new things and meet new people and that friends and family are always there when you need them.”

Logan Cravens, 7th grade, just after the color war on the final day of camp. When asked what he loved about camp he said, “I really enjoyed making new friends from other churches.”

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DISCIPLE 2021

Avery Stone (left), an 8th grade student, shares her love for the many parts of camp: “I really enjoyed the worship. The songs really touched me because I could relate to them. I also enjoyed making new friends and learning about their walks with God. I enjoy the games too; they were packed with fun!”

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MISSION CHICAGO 2021

Servant Students

SAVE THESE DATES Back to School Bash - Sunday, August 15 Small Groups Begin - Wednesday, August 18 Confirmation Begins - Sunday, September 19 Infant Crisis Service Opportunity - Saturday, September 11 Halloween Celebration - Wednesday, October 20 Infant Crisis Service Opportunity - Saturday, November 6 Gobble Gobble (Thanksgiving Party) - Wednesday, November 17 Infant Crisis Service Opportunity - Saturday, November 20 Confirmation Ends - Sunday, December 5 Christmas Shindig - Wednesday, December 8

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“SURPRISING. CONVICTING. POWERFUL.”

MISSION CHICAGO 2021

Surprising. Convicting. Powerful. Transformational. Inspiring. Holy. These words and more were used to describe Mission Chicago 2021 by the students and leaders who experienced it. This trip was set to happen in 2020, but we know that plans changed big time come Spring Break of last year. Over a year and a half later, on the morning of June 26, 2021, Skyler and I could hardly believe the day had finally come to head to Chicago, Illinois with our crew of high schoolers. Most of these students had never served on a mission trip before, nor had they been to the Windy City, so stepping outside of their comfort zones was an understatement. When asked to describe their week, students used one single word to summarize their experiences with God, one another, and those within Chicago – but that one word is rich with meaning and stories on stories that point to one resounding truth: God was present.

These are the experiences of our students as they give a glimpse into Mission Chicago 2021:

the service and the people there.” This great spirit of worship filled the space and resounded with joy that opened students’ eyes to different ways of praising God. Throughout the week, students had the chance to serve in various places. One of the places was within a faith-based kids camp for the children of single parents run by a woman we knew as Dr. Nicole. This program is seen as a bridge between school years to help those working parents out. The students connected with

On our first full day in Chicago, students had the precious opportunity to worship with the body of believers at New Community Church. This was the church that so generously housed us in a community nestled in Dolton, Illinois – a town just 25 minutes from downtown Chicago. The service was full of joyful noise, empowering words of prayer, and a reminder of God’s faithfulness. Max Greene, a 9th grader, stated that “the service was much different than what we have back home at Church of the Servant. But with it being different, there was a great sense of peace and holiness in the building. They didn’t have a care in the world what everyone else thought – I just loved that about

the children, from leading silly songs with them, to leading devotion, to helping them learn braille, to playing them in a game

of basketball. The students fell in love with the kids and became fast friends. Will Cockrill, a 10th grade student, spent a great deal of time with the kids stated, “The kids [at the camp] were the sweetest people I have ever seen. They had no problem with me coming in and hanging out with them. I saw God throughout the week because the kids were so happy and enjoying their time with all of us.” This impact revealed how students so easily stepped in and helped, no questions asked!

Students also got the opportunity to help clean up a local park that was less than a mile away from the kids camp. Within the park clean up, we were able to meet the man in charge of park maintenance, Mr. Knuckles. Along with pulling weeds, mowing grass, weed eating, and planting flowers, students had the chance to get to know Mr. Knuckles and hear his story of redemption. He also gave perspective on the state of Chicago and his opportunity to bring a little beauty through the parks. Kendall Arnold, a 10th grade student, enjoyed working at the park. She stated, “I saw God working throughout the park clean up by my friends and leaders working so incredibly hard. Each person wanted the park to look better than how it did before. I saw God in Mr. Knuckles by his way of speaking – he was so kind to each of us and let people in with open arms. God taught me that helping people and giving glory back to the Lord is the absolute best feeling in the world and a great way to make relationships.” It was hard work, but students

gave it their all in helping Mr. Knuckles and the park bring a little more beauty to the area.

On a couple occasions, students got to learn more about another way Dr. Nicole, the leader of the kids camp, is continuing to help her community. We were able to see the workings of the soon-to-be food pantry to open with Dolton. It will be called Free-N-Deed based off John 8:36. Dr. Nicole proudly showed off the building and testified of all the goodness God had done in providing the means for the food pantry along with the great things that will come with this addition to the community. After the trip, Avery Sullivan, a 10th grade student, stated “I think God has been stirring all of our hearts and I think it’s just now hitting me how effective the work at the food pantry was. I truly did see God through Dr. Nicole’s passion. She goes to work prepared, energized, and just overall happy with what she’s doing. I think God has taught me from working at the food pantry that big things may have small beginnings. Just sweeping the floors made a huge difference. I can’t wait to see what God does with Dr.

Nicole’s life and the food pantry.” Dr. Nicole’s passion inspired us all to see Christ within this community and beyond. Finally, along with serving, students stepped out of their comfort zones, opening themselves up to new friendships and bonds amongst one another. It was clear through the long car rides, the trips to and around Chicago, and all of opportunities to see Christ in each other, students and leaders walked away closer than ever. Caroline Flurry, a 10th grade student, spoke about the bonds and just the overall week by stating, “Mission Chicago was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Going into the week, I didn’t even know who some of the people I’d be serving with were, and then by Monday afternoon we had all already formed such a tight bond. One of my favorite parts was getting the privilege to serve kids and teach them to love people the way Jesus loves us. Along with many, MANY laughs and silly moments, God spoke to me in so many ways this week, and the conviction I felt was like no other.” Mission Chicago was a trip like no other – bonding students, opening their eyes to service, and most importantly, drawing us even deeper in faith and closer to the Lord. We cannot wait to see the lessons learned brought to practice and where we will continue to serve in the years to come. Heather Winner

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WHAT’S AHEAD...

FALL PROGRAMMING It’s crazy to think that in just a little over a month our students will be beginning their school years. We know our students are a little less than thrilled about this, but a new school year means the return of student programming. Our Wednesday night small groups will return on Wednesday, August 18, 6:308:00pm here at Church of the Servant. For many of our students, this is the highlight of their weeks and an opportunity for them to worship and be with their friends. Small groups are in place for students to study Scripture, hear a message, connect with their peers, and encourage one another in their faith walks. Soon after that on Sunday, August 22, we will be starting up our Sunday School programming for middle and high school students. Our focus for this programming is to provide a place for students to come and start their weeks in the Word and in fellowship with one another. After the conclusion of Sunday morning programming, we will attend the 11:00 modern worship service together. This past year, we gathered each Sunday night for times of fellowship and worship. For this upcoming school year, we are shifting these Sunday night gatherings to once a month. Our first Sunday night gathering will be on Sunday, September 5.

FALL SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES As we approach a new school year, we ask ourselves, how can Servant Students serve both our church and our community? This fall, we will have new, amazing opportunities to do just this. During Sunday morning programming, our students will have the option to serve within the church. One way our students can get involved is by helping the church’s tech team in either 9:30 traditional or 11:00 modern services. Tasks in these areas may involve running slides, lights, sound, or even cameras. Another way to serve on Sunday morning is through our children’s ministry. Servant Students will be invited to step in and volunteer with our children’s programming on Sunday mornings as they would assist in leading Bible lessons, organizing games, and helping children have an impactful experience on Sunday mornings. Our hope and our prayer is that Servant Student Ministries would be a ministry that not only serves within its own walls, but also reaches out to the community it is a part of. For the fall semester, Servant Students will be partnering with Infant Crisis Services. Each service opportunity we will have will be focused on Infant Crisis Services and we will be gathering donations for the organization until the end of the fall semester. This will look like creating Infant care packages, fundraising, and even volunteering at Infant Crisis Services. We are so glad that we are able to have a relationship with this wonderful organization and pray that through our service we can impact the lives of many.

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NEW CHURCH APP #ServantOKC

CONNECTING WITH SERVANT JUST GOT EASIER! We have updated our website and added a brand new church App! To download the church App: 1. Go to the App Store and search for “ServantOKC” 2. Press “Get It” or “Install” 3. OPEN the App and enjoy! Direct link to download App: https://subsplash.com/churchoftheservant/app MORE WAYS TO VIEW LIVESTREAM: There are now more ways than ever before to view the church livestream and worship together! View our services ONLINE in the church App, or on our website (ServantOKC.org). Livestream is also available on Apple TV, Roku, Facebook, and YouTube! Simply search for “ServantOKC”! JOIN THE CONVERSATION! Chat with us during the livestream. Link in church App! BULLETIN: Open the digital bulletin and follow along with the service. Link in church App! CALENDARS: Stay connected with the day-to-day life of our church. GIVE: Giving online has never been easier! Give a one-time donation, or setup a reoccurring gift. Download the App today!

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Church of the Servant 14343 North MacArthur Boulevard Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73142-9725

9:30 • 11:00

LIVE STREAM Sunday Mornings @ 9:30 & 11:00 servantokc.online.church Also on Facebook @ServantOKC