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Contact, an edition of

The United Methodist Reporter


Two Sections, Section A • 039000 • Volume 157, Number 44 • March 4, 2011

THE OKLAHOMA UNITED METHODIST

n Council rules on Local Pastor voting, 2A


www.okumc.org n Church meets in funeral home, 7A

Kristen Brown reflects at a


Jerusalem well in 2008.

Kristen Brown
will serve
in Jerusalem
By Holly McCray
Since 1996, clergywoman Kristen Brown of
Oklahoma has been to Jerusalem seven times. When
she returns again this year, she will be going to her
new home.
Rev. Brown is a new missionary, assigned to
Jerusalem through the General Board of Global
Blaze of glory Ministries. Her UM Advance support number is:
3021280.
On Jan. 29, ministry by Randlett United Methodist Church truly “I’ve been very affirmed every time I’ve gone”
was refined by fire. A controlled burn of the parsonage, no longer to the Holy Land, Brown said. “It’s home on some
habitable, provided a rare training experience for rural firefighters and, level; I’m not just a Christian wanting to go there.
for the church, saved the expense to tear down the unsafe structure. It’s very, very much deeper than that.
Randlett and Devol Volunteer Fire Departments conducted a “Not everybody can go, or has that desire, so
search-and-rescue simulation and observed how a fire moves out I can represent the Oklahoma Conference and our
from its point of origination in a room. As smoke and flames rose greater Church while I am there.”
heavenward from the former home, a century old, the teams imple- In Jerusalem, she will have many opportunities
mented precautionary measures for nearby buildings. to minister using her translation skills. Sabeel, an
“We not only had a prayer inside the parsonage before the big ecumenical theology center, is her mission assign-
burn,” said David Gardner, pastor at the church in southwestern Oklahoma. “We had a prayer at Sunday service to celebrate the ment.
servants who lived there, the love shared, and the ministry that continues to uphold the church universal.” Some of the ashes At Oklahoma City University, Brown majored
were carefully buried at the site. in French and minored in Chinese and German.
Read more about the fire and the parsonage’s history at www.okumc.org. Search for “Randlett parsonage.” Continued on 5A

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Page 2A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact March 4, 2011

Judicial Council makes clear new rules for clergy voting


By JoSEPH HarriS In the Constitution, Paragraph 35 Article have been elected to full membership by the 5. The following rules also apply to Elders
Conference Secretary IV reads as follows: Clergy Session. Thus Oklahoma Elders and and Deacons in full connection:
New categories for clergy voting in elec- “The clergy delegates to the General Deacons elected to full connection by the n Clergy on voluntary leaves of absence
tions for General/Jurisdictional Conference Conference and to the jurisdictional or 2011 Clergy Session, scheduled for Sunday may vote and may be elected as delegates.
clergy delegates now have been clarified by central conference shall be elected from the afternoon of the conference, are eligible to n Clergy on sabbatical, family, paternity/
the denomination’s Judicial Council. clergy members in full connection and shall vote and serve as delegates.) maternity, and disability leave may vote and
The ruling will apply to these elections be elected by the clergy members of the an- 2. Associate Members, active or retired be elected.
when our Annual Conference meets May nual conference who are deacons and elders 3. Provisional Members who have com- n Retired clergy may vote and be elected

29-June 1 in Oklahoma City. Election rules in full connection, associate members, and pleted all their educational requirements as delegates.
n Clergy under suspension from pastoral
for lay delegates do not change. those provisional members and local pastors including History, Doctrine, and Polity
4. local Pastors, active or retired, who duties may vote but may not be elected as
All voting will be on Monday, May 30. who have completed all of their educational delegates.
This year, Oklahomans will choose requirements and have served a minimum have completed Course of Study or an
M.Div. degree and have served a minimum Who may NoT vote for clergy delegates
representatives to the 2012 General and Ju- of two consecutive years under appointment to General/Jurisdictional Conference?
risdictional Conferences of our Church. The immediately preceding election.” of two consecutive years under appoint- Laity.
delegation will be equally divided between Here is how the change will apply in the ment immediately preceding election Clergy on honorable location.
clergy and laity, elected by their peers. Oklahoma Conference. Clergy on administrative location.
n The Course of Study or M.Div. Local Pastors who do not meet the requirements listed
In 2008, the Constitution in the United degree, including History, Doc- above in No. 4.
Methodist Book of Discipline was revised to Who may vote for the clergy delegates to trine, and Polity, shall have been Who may be elected as a clergy delegate?
expand clergy voting rights to some Local General/Jurisdictional Conference? completed prior to the 2011 annual Elders and Deacons in full connection, active or retired.
Pastors. Under the previous Discipline (the 1. Elders and Deacons in full connection, conference session. Who may NoT be elected as a clergy delegate?
denominational law book), Local Pastors were active or retired n appointment (full or part- Provisional Members, Associate Members, Local Pas-
not allowed to vote on clergy representatives (Note: Persons who are to be received time) for both the 2009-10 and the tors, Elders and Deacons in full connection on Involun-
to these top legislative meetings. into full membership and ordained Elder or 2010-11 annual conference years tary Leave of Absence (paragraph 255.7), Suspended,
The United Methodist Council of Bishops Deacon in full connection at the session of the Honorable Location or Administrative Location.
n Each district superintendent
certified the change in spring 2010. The Judi- annual conference may vote or be elected to has determined the voting eligibility (This is Part One of a series on the voting
cial Council issued its clarification on Feb. 14. the General Conference delegation after they of local Pastors. process at Annual Conference in late May.)

New lecture series begins with Robert Gorrell


Robert Gorrell will present the inaugural
Martha Jean Lemon Lectures on March 31 at “Recovering
Oklahoma City University. the Message and
The first presentation will be at 1 p.m. in Mission of Jesus in
the weekly chapel service; the second lecture served as senior pastor contributor to The Abingdon Preaching Annual Your Local Church”
will be at 7 p.m. Both events are free, open to at Ardmore-First, Put- and author of “Mothers Matter.”
the public, and will be in the Bishop W. Angie nam City, and Noble Gorrell received a bachelor’s in science from March 31 lectures
Smith Chapel on campus. churches; associate at OCU and a graduate degree in theology from By Robert Gorrell
This endowed lecture series is a gift from OKC-St. Luke’s and Co- Southern Methodist University, where he also
Lynette Lemon Wert and Larry H. Lemon, on be- n 1 p.m.—The Message
chran Chapel, Dallas, did post-graduate work on the Christology of
and Mission of
half of the Lemon family of Oklahoma City. The Gorrell Texas; and director of John Wesley. Following a two-year residency, Compassion
gift honors Martha Jean Lemon, who graduated Children’s and Youth he earned his doctorate in psychotherapy. (Matthew15:21-28)
from OCU in 1968 with a degree in history and Ministries at OKC-St. John’s. He was a family He has served the greater church on the n 7 p.m.—The Matthew
worked as an independent comparative religion counselor at Goodland Presbyterian Family Board of Ordained Ministry, Committee on In- Method (Matthew 16:
scholar. The annual lecture series will feature Services and a counselor at United Methodist vestigation, and Joint Review Committee, all of 13-20 and 28:16-20)
speakers, workshops, or seminars on topics that Family Counseling in Oklahoma City. He served the Oklahoma Conference. He is an SMU field Suggested reading:
promote religious leadership and service. as a chaplain in the aftermath of the Oklahoma supervisor and teaches at Saint Paul School of “Change the world:
Rev. Dr. Gorrell serves as senior pastor of City bombing. Theology at OCU, preparing graduate theology Recovering the Message
United Methodist Church of the Servant in Gorrell is the recipient of two prestigious students for a life of church service. and Mission of Jesus,” by
Oklahoma City. In 1988, Gorrell was ordained honors: The Denman Award in Evangelism Gorrell grew up in Oklahoma City. He is Mike Slaughter, forward by
Jim Wallis
an elder in the Oklahoma Conference. He has and the Eagle Scout Award. He is a regular married to Prudy; they have two adult daughters.

Inaugural events in April celebrate new president


OCU will celebrate the inaugura- UMC. Bishop Robert E. Hayes Jr. ties will follow the ceremony: will showcase the addition to the On april 7, the School of Law
tion of Robert Henry, the university’s will deliver the sermon. n OCU’s Meinders School of Kramer School of Nursing. hosts the Quinlan Lecture at 5 p.m.,
17th president, with events through- The formal inaugural ceremony Business will host symposia from n New York Times columnist featuring former Stanford Law
out the week of april 3-7. will be at 10 a.m. april 6 in the 1 to 4 p.m., featuring distinguished David Brooks will give a public lec- School Dean Kathleen Sullivan.
The celebrations that week will Freede Wellness and Activity Center, panelists on philanthropy, health, ture at 7:30 p.m. in the Freede Cen- For details, call Elizabeth New-
kick off at the 10:50 a.m. worship at N.W. 27th and Florida Avenue. law, energy, and the economy. ter, as part of the university’s Dis- ton, 405-208-7000, or visit www.
service april 3 at OKC-St. Luke’s A number of same-day activi- n At 4:30, the Grand Opening tinguished Speaker Series. okcu.edu/inauguration.

The Oklahoma United Methodist


Phone: 405-530-2075 robert E. Hayes Jr., bishop Nyla Wallin, administrative assistant/video coordinator
Joseph Harris, director of communications alicia Galyon, Web ministry/graphics design
Fax: 405-530-2093 Holly McCray, editor of publications amelia Ballew, The Media Center
To subscribe, send mailing information
1501 N.W. 24th and $15 to our address at left. Sign up online for Contact Digest, a free electronic newsletter. Find information at www.okumc.org.
oklahoma City, oK 73106 Moving? Send change by mail or e-mail: aballew@okumc.org. Send news to editor@okumc.org. Next publication date: March 25.
Page 3A FY11 Oklahoma
The Oklahoma United Methodist AD 5125_Layout 1
Contact 2/9/11 10:42 AM Page 1 March 4, 2011

Strength for the journey:


Ideas and thoughts from our bishop Celebrating the Grand Opening
of Our Oklahoma City
Lent: skipping dessert Cokesbury Store
or gaining God?
“We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be
reconciled to God. God made him who had
no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might
life in Christ. And when you discover what
needs to be changed or transformed, for
Christ’s sake, do something about it!
6 DAYS ONLY
March 14-19, 2011
become the righteousness of God.” n Also, seek the adventure of honest self-
(2 Corinthians 5: 20b-21, NIV 2010) denial. Practice giving up something of real
value to you so that you may gain discipline SAVE $10 on a $50 purchase (promo code LF11)

A
By BiSHoP roBErT HayES Jr. for your life. Remember that Jesus said, “If SAVE $25 on a $100 purchase (promo code LN11)
ny Oklahoma farmer will tell you anyone would come after me, let them deny
that spring does not start with themselves.” Are you willing to give up all SAVE $60 on a $200 purchase (promo code TE11)
bursting seeds and buds. Their rights to yourself, with no thought of reward?
germination is the result of spring. Spring Concentrate these few weeks on worthy self-
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starts when earth readjusts its position to denial. It may teach much about the way to
the sun. The potential of fields and gardens grow in God. A DEDICATION SERVICE
would be planted in vain without the yearly From darkness to light will be held at the
adjustment of the earth in the heavens. Few people are familiar with the inner Oklahoma City Cokesbury Store
Likewise, our human personalities are darkness and personal struggles of George location only on
planted with hidden possibilities. And when Frederick Handel, who composed “Mes- Monday, March 14, at 9:00 a.m.
we come into the right adjustment with 7005 North May Avenue
siah,” one of the most famous classical
the Source of light and life— Oklahoma City, OK 73116
music works. Its “Hallelujah
God—those fertile possibilities Phone: 405.858.5195
Chorus” segment is often
grow into reality. Toll free: 866.647.1634
performed at Christmas.
It is not by accident that The year was 1741. Handel
the Christian season of Lent KingsPointe Village Shopping Center
walked the back streets of Lon-
is observed each spring. De- 6024 S. Yale Avenue
don, thinking of past triumphs,
rived from the Old English Tulsa, OK 74135
yet despairing of his future.
word lencten, Lent literally Phone: 918.663.9885
Misfortune, ill health, and
means spring. Thus Lent can Toll free: 877.281.5809
bankruptcy dogged him at age
be described as springtime for 60. His audiences had dwin-
our souls, to readjust our lives dled. A cerebral hemorrhage
with God. had partially paralyzed him.
With God’s help, use these Bishop Hayes As he looked deeply within
40 days (March 9—April 24) himself, he acknowledged the
to look deep within yourself and into the darkness that had overtaken his soul.
depths of God. Then the miraculous happened! Returning
The model of Jesus to his apartment, he found a package from
I know that, for some people, Lent is Charles Jennens, asking Handel to write a sa-
simply abstaining from dessert or lengthen- cred oratorio. The dramatic lyrics, filled with
ing a 15-second prayer to 30 seconds—brief verses from Isaiah about the promised mes-
moments of discipline. As we enter this high
holy season, let us observe Lent like our
siah, challenged Handel’s discouraged heart.
With lightning speed and divine inspira-
Friends of Children
Lord did!
The Master in the wilderness refused
tion he wrote music for: “He was despised
and rejected of men… Comfort ye, comfort Fundraising Banquets
the most basic necessity of physical life— ye my people, saith your God.” For endless
bread. Why? Because he was keen about the hours Handel wrote, often jumping from his
quest—the adventure of God. chair to play a passage on his harpsichord.
Let us follow his example this season.
We may find ourselves giving up that which
“Hallelujah!” he would shout, as tears rolled
down his cheeks. When “Messiah” was
March 31: Tulsa
weighs heaviest upon us, letting go of that
which truly holds us back. When we aban-
complete, an exhausted Handel fell on his
bed and slept for 17 hours. Asbury UMC
don the artificiality we so often invest in Handel rediscovered meaning and pur-
Lent, our own quest for God springs into
action.
pose for his life in his darkest hour, and
his words have brought light and hope to
April 7: OKC
For me, Lent is a season of spiritual
adventure! Here is what I propose in this
millions.
A miracle awaits you at the end of these Church of the Servant
season for your own great adventure into 40 days. Embrace this Lenten adventure of
the depths of God’s being
n One of the most vital things you can
moving from the darkness of sin into God’s
marvelous light—and thus to the miracle of Featuring:
do is to examine yourself daily. Reflect on rediscovering God’s love for you. This sacred
who you are, what you are, and what direc-
tion you are going. Develop the desire to
season celebrates the victory of spirit over
matter, life over death, of God’s creative and
Bishop Robert Hayes
expose your inner self to honest scrutiny in renewing love over the worst that human hate
the cleansing light of God’s presence. Rec-
ognize those faults and feelings that keep
and blindness can do.
You will grow to realize that Lent doesn’t
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frustration that prevent you from abundant
It begins when Christ enters your heart—and
continues every day.
Contact: 405.530.2078
Page 4A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact March 4, 2011
This continues a series focusing on the Oklahoma Conference Strategic Plan.

Following the Plan

‘I was in prison,
and you visited
T he Oklahoma Conference Strategic Plan provides the framework to
envision, implement, and assess all ministries and missions for every
church. The Plan targets 3 key areas.
This story focuses on: “Be more fruitful in our ministry partnerships in
spaces the local church alone cannot.”
The Book of Romans proclaims all parts of Christ’s body are connected
together in ministry and mission that strengthen and support. This story
spotlights our United Methodist connection in prison ministries.

P icture a typical church hall, prepped for a fellowship meal


and program. Rows of folding tables and simple chairs. A
podium. Plastic dishware. On one table, a cross and Communion
at five state correctional facilities.
Lexington’s senior chaplain, Larry Adams, described the agape
meal as historic because three distinct religious bodies—Lutheran,
elements formed a focal point. Episcopalian, and United Methodist—united to offer it inside the
Men began arriving, and the distinctiveness of this Christian prison.
gathering was made plain by the clothes they wore. Their shirts “This meal celebrates that we are one in God,” Basler said. “It
were stamped with the word “INMATE.” is truly a joy to be with you today.”
This church service took place inside Lexington Correctional Other UM participants were other CJAMM clergy and volun-
Center. teers, as well as students from Saint Paul School of Theology, a UM
United Methodists regularly minister to those behind prison walls seminary. The 2010 event was part of a prison ministry immersion
across the state. Crucial in that work is the Oklahoma Conference’s course for the students.
Criminal Justice & Mercy Ministries (CJAMM), directed by Stan
Basler.
CJAMM had a major role in the Lexington event.
The prison warden’s opening remarks that day conveyed the
P reaching at Lexington, Basler talked about the Jews enduring
exile, as described by Isaiah in the Old Testament.
“You can do something I can’t do,” he addressed those incarcer-
respect on both sides of the bars for this agency and for Rev. Dr. ated. “You can touch lives every day in this place.
Basler. Also a United Methodist, Eric Franklin has been a warden “You can probably understand very well the experience of
Page 5A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact March 4, 2011

me’ Among the leaders at a Lexington Correctional Center


ecumenical worship service were CJAMM officers Stan
Basler, preaching above, and Becky Baxter-Ballou, lower
left, who is performing the baptism remembrance ritual.
‘Some of my gifts and
graces lie in language’
being in exile. There’s somebody —Kristen Brown
who hasn’t heard a kind word all
day—and doesn’t expect it. But
when you say one, you begin some-
Jerusalem
thing good that can be passed along Continued from 1A
to somebody else.” She also speaks Arabic. She provided translation at
the 2008 General Conference and, in 2006, at the

“W
50-year celebration of clergywomen in the Church.
hen I was in prison, “Some of my gifts and graces lie in language,”
you visited me.” That Brown agreed.
Scripture echoed throughout inter- She graduated from Duke seminary and, in 1996,
views with several inmates that day began serving as a pastor and campus minister in
Oklahoma.
at Lexington. They told stories of
But she has a lifetime of experience traveling
Christian volunteers who inspired Photos by Amelia Ballew and living beyond the state’s borders. She’s been a
them to seek God. They stressed the security mea- to one inmate’s transformation. leader and member of Volunteers In Mission teams.
sures for visitors. They invited more Christians to n “If you feel it is your calling, please come.” She spent a month in personal discernment in the
visit. “We can change,” the inmates at Lexington Holy Land in 2007, and she has traveled to Europe
and Taiwan.
n “Lifeline.” That’s how one man described such wanted free Christians to know.
Her parents, Dudley and Sara Brown of Tahle-
volunteers. The prison system had provided him “When we come to know the Lord Jesus Christ, quah, met as students at the American University of
the help he needed to overcome drug addiction, we’re not the same people we were before.” Beirut in Lebanon. Brown and her sister were born in
and Christian visitors had helped him recover his “There are a lot of men and women behind these New York City; her brother, in Zambia. The family
walls that have changed.” lived in Libya, too.
faith. He faced two more years of incarceration. She is undeterred by the power struggles that
n “Awesome.” Serving a life term, one man said,

C
roil the Middle East. “I wouldn’t get out of bed in
“I was not a nice person when I came in. Today I JAMM is a multi-faceted program powered the morning if I was afraid of life. We’re in God’s
am a child of the King. (Volunteers) come in, give by United Methodist connectionalism. hands. If we could learn to look at a person through
us God’s word, and teach us things. They treat us Among its work outside prisons, CJAMM also the eyes of Christ, see the beautiful creation God has
offers summer camps for children of incarcerated made, then we’d do things differently,” Brown said.
like a human being.” The population is reportedly 3 percent Christian,
parents, advocates for justice at the Capitol, assists
n “Appreciation,” said another man about Chris- Brown said, in the land where Jesus walked. Yet
people re-entering community life, and operates a man once declared to her, “My people were the
tian volunteers. “They know my name.”
Redemption Churches and Exodus Houses. shepherds who went to see Jesus.”
n “A volunteer came in and sat and read his Bible
Brown said, “I would hate to see a day where we
whether anyone else did or not.” His example led (www.cjamm.org) have zero Christians in this area.”
From Jerusalem, her blog will feature her
journey and ministry—womanatthewell2008@
blogspot.com.

Presentations in Oklahoma
Missionary Kristen Brown of Tahlequah
is speaking to groups about her new minis-
try, prior to departing for service in the Holy
Land. Below is her tentative schedule. Most
programs are in mornings and afternoons,
and all are welcome. For more information,
contact Karen Distefano, Oklahoma Confer-
ence Secretary of Global Ministries, kririe@
aol.com, 918-336-0351.
March 6—Thackerville and Ardmore-First
March 13—Alfalfa and Weatherford-First
March 20—Tulsa-St. Paul’s
March 27—Bartlesville-East Cross
March 30—Moore-First
April 2—Ponca City-Albright
April 3—Lucien, Covington, Enid-Christ
May 1—OKC-St. Andrew’s
Page 6A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact March 4, 2011

Appointments
Margery Van Oostrum to retirement from Altus-
First UMC (Clinton District), effective Jan. 1.
In memoriam
Harwood rowe God called him into ministry in 1979. In the ing nursery school and market research. Rev.
Perla Martinez-Goody to retirement from Pauls
Rev. Harwood Slate “Dick” Rowe, 83, of 1980s, he pastored at Okmulgee-Butler and Inola Whytlaw retired in Oklahoma in 1978, and the
Valley San Mateo Fellowship (Ardmore District),
Sulphur died Feb. 2, 2011. churches before officially retiring in 1988. couple moved to Northfield.
effective Jan. 1.
Service was Feb. 10 at Sulphur UMC. Survivors include his wife of 62 years; three She was active in community activities
James Hewett to Shawnee-Wesley UMC (South
He was born Aug. 26, 1927, in Elk City. He children, Kenneth Radcliff of Gore, Nancy Major throughout her life. In 1989, she was the first recipi-
OKC) from retirement, effective Jan. 1.
married Stella Mae LaFever on March 1, 1953, of Douglas, and Ralph Radcliff Jr. of Harrah; five ent of the Mary Wood Community Service Award.
Ron Luka to no appointment from Waynoka/
in Roosevelt. grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Survivors include daughters Merrell Thornton
Cheyenne Valley (Woodward), effective Jan. 31.
Rev. Rowe officially retired in 1990, after a of Northfield and Elizabeth Betebenner of Joplin,
Woody Hamon to Waynoka/Cheyenne Valley,
long ministry career. His first appointment was robert Hill Mo.; son Jim Whytlaw of Springfield, Mo.; five
effective Feb. 1.
at Lone Wolf. He also served at Hammon, Felt, Rev. Robert Harvey Hill, 86, of Cookson grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Opportunities Quinlan, Rosston/Gate/Knowles, Tulsa-Ball
Memorial, Lenapah/South Coffeyville, Rush
died Feb. 19, 2011. Memorial service was Feb.
25 at Gore UMC. Betty Saviers
Music Director: Rusty Williams, Muskogee- Springs, Snyder/Mountain Park, Blair/Martha, Robert was born Nov. 18, 1924, in Tulsa. A Betty Lee Saviers, 78, of Eufaula died Feb.
First UMC, 600 E. Okmulgee, Muskogee, OK Velma, Wilson/Lone Grove, Sulphur-First, Or- U.S. Marine, he was wounded in action during 12, 2011. She was the wife of Rev. Charles
74403, pastorrusty@fumcmuskogee.org, 918- lando/Mulhall, Wakita/Manchester, Hinton, Tex- World War II. He married Pauline Ogle on June Saviers, who is serving Alderson UMC and the
682-3368. homa, Waynoka, Tipton, Glencoe, and Haworth. 14, 1946. His first career was in music education. Eufaula Lake Ministry.
Coordinator for Elementary Children’s Min- He donated his time making gates for church He then studied at Perkins School of Theol- Service was Feb. 16 at McAlester-First UMC.
istry: OKC-Church of the Servant, Randy Shrauner, camps and crosses for Velma, Mulhall, Sulphur, ogy. His ministry in Oklahoma began in 1955, and Betty was born March 24, 1932, in Oklahoma
rshrauner@churchoftheservant.com. and other communities. He also built a parson- he served Warner/Porum, Muskogee-Lakeland City. At Stillwater High School, she was the first
Director of Student Ministries: Full-time. age at Felt. Heights, Vian/Gore, and Duncan-St. Paul’s. He female to letter in two sports. On July 3, 1980,
Pleasant Valley UMC, Wichita, Kan., Nathan Survivors include daughter Beatrice Webb then ministered in Bolivia and Saudi Arabia. He she married Rev. Saviers, who was pastor at
Stanton, 1600 W. 27th St. N., Wichita, Kan. 67204, of Velma; sons Harwood Rowe Jr. of Montgom- officially retired in 1992. Eufaula at the time.
nathans@pvumc.com. ery, Ala., George Rowe of Guthrie, and Charles Survivors include his wife of almost 65 years; She was an active church member.
Director of Discipleship/Pastoral assistant: Rowe of Sulphur; eight grandchildren and 16 children Kathye Osborne of Lubbock, Texas, Survivors include her husband; five children,
Part-time. OKC-New Hope, JD Ward, pastor@ great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his Martha Carter of Branson, Mo., and R. David Hill Allen Saviers of Sapulpa, Elizabeth Ellis of
newhopeokc.org, 405-721-5015. wife, in 2008. of Southwest City, Mo.; seven grandchildren and Denison, Texas, Dale Saviers of Seattle, Darr
Choir Director: Part-time. Norman-Goodrich, four great-grandchildren. Oney and Trish McCall, both of Dallas; and a
jimshepherd1@cox.net. ralph radcliff grandchild. She was predeceased by her first
administrative assistant/Communications Rev. Ralph Dale Radcliff, 84, of Enid died Peg Whytlaw husband, Leon Oney, in 1976.
Coordinator: Part-time. Staff Parish Relations Feb. 11, 2011. Margaret “Peg” Whytlaw, 97, of Northfield,
Committee, OKC-First, 405-239-6493, sprc@ Graveside service was Feb. 17 at Memorial Minn., died Jan, 27, 2011. She was the widow of • Shawn Bell, 21, of Edmond died Feb. 18.
firstchurchokc.com. Park Cemetery in Tulsa. Rev. Edward Louis Whytlaw, who died in 1987. His foster parents were David Nichols and Rev.
Hammon organ: Free for pick-up. Elaine Ralph was born May 11, 1926, in Winfield, Service was Jan. 31 at Northfield UMC. Tish Malloy, senior pastor at Moore-First.
Bates, OKC, 405-773-0478. Kan. He served in the Navy during World War II Peg was born Nov. 12, 1913, on Staten Island, • John Gober Sr. of Del City died Feb. 8,
Wurlitzer Digital Concert D170 Series or- and worked in the grocery business. He married N.Y. The Whytlaws married on Oct. 8, 1938, in 2011. He was the father of Rev. John Gober Jr.,
gan: Free for pick-up. Mary, Harrah, 405-391-6367. Evelyn Alhke on Jan. 23, 1949. New York City. Her work career included teach- chaplain at Good Shepherd Hospice in Del City.

1000
Will You Join the Growing Ranks of the

Dear Friends of Circle of Care:


Every Sunday morning on my way to the choir room at church, I witness children
climbing all over Jesus. At the entry of our Children's area, we have a beautiful larger-
than-life statue of our Lord. Isn’t it fabulous that this piece of art is designed to invite
interaction?
Anonymous Michael & Janet Crooch Mike & Christy Mordy It is such a visual reminder to me of the importance of children in the eyes of
Anonymous Philip & Lisa Crow David & Laura Morrison Christ. Let the children come to me and do not hinder them, Jesus says. And He
Anonymous Bobby & Shirley Darnell Ted & Laura Mosteller reminds us that whoever welcomes children in His name, welcomes Him.
Marsha Davis Lenert & Bobbie Pfeiler Friends, since 1917, the Oklahoma United Methodist Circle of Care has provided
Anonymous
help, healing, and hope to at-risk children, youth, and families across our state. Circle
Anonymous Gregory & Mary Ann Edwards John & Helen Riley of Care is the United Methodist Boys Ranch and the United Methodist Children’s
Donald & Cheryl Baker Robert & Prudy Gorrell Gary & Sharon Roth Home, providing residential programs for teenagers. It is the David O. Beal Indepen-
Randy & Eddisu Barker UMW Grove First UMC Mike Self & Shannon Nakvinda Self dent Living Program, providing shelter and support for high school and college-aged
Rudolph & Madeline Hargrave Bill & Martha Smith youth making the transition into adulthood. It is the Holsinger Home for Children, a
Don & Lynn Batson
licensed foster home for large sibling groups. It is Pearl’s Hope, a transitional program
David & Laura Beal Ralph & Linda Harker Arden & Rita Ruth Smith for homeless women and their children at the Frances E. Willard Home in Tulsa. It is
Clara Brown Valerie Hatley Craig Stinson & Krista Jones Child SHARE, recruiting and supporting foster families statewide.
Spencer & Mary Brown, Jr. Bishop Robert & Dee Hayes Ken & June Tucker In my role as Miss America so many years ago and my career as a broadcast
John & Anne Heaton J. M. & Patricia Vanderwiele, Jr. journalist, I’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand the plight of too many children
Lacey Butler Jr.
without a future. I know that Circle of Care is making a difference.
Ivan Bys Billy & Ann Hebblethwaite David & Suzan Wolf Today, we are embarking on a new initiative to ensure that all these programs are
Arlene Chriswell Jono & Jenny Helmerich Bill & Lissa Wright able to continue, and expand to meet the growing needs. It is called Project 1000.
Ralph & Midge Coffman Jim & Mary Nell Holder Donald & Barbara Wright We are seeking to recruit 1000 new donors who will each pledge $1,000 per year for
Ross & Jane Hutchinson three years.
Randall & Kathryn Coit Circle of Care Staff:
Project 1000 is an ambitious campaign that will allow Circle of Care to look ahead:
Lloyd Cole, Jr. Robert & Ann Ivester OKC/Communicatons/Pearl’s Hope How many more Child SHARE foster families can be lifted up? How many more
Luke & Becky Corbett Foundation Keith & Patricia Kennedy UM Boys Ranch youths can be served at the Boys Ranch, the Children’s Home, the Independent
Robert & Debbie Craine Greg & Anita LaPat UM Children’s Home Living Program? How many more families can be helped through Pearl’s Hope? How
Dwight Maulding Independent Living many more lives can be forever changed?
C. C. & Anna Marie Crooch Fund
Look at it this way: For only $19.23 per week, you can invest in the future. You
John & Jamie Crooch, Jr. Bob & Doris McKown Child SHARE Staff can help a child, a family. You can become one of the 1000. Won’t you join us?
Billy & Lora Meade
In His name,
To make your pledge today, please call 405-530-2078
or visit our website at:
http://www.circleofcare.org/1000.html Jane Jayroe Gamble
Page 7A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact March 4, 2011

Funeral home shelters worshippers in storm


McAlester-First secured a most unusual level parking, and easy access. home was certainly a concern, but I remem- It was an enriching experience.”
place for Sunday worship, when record snow- “The folks at Bishop’s were so gracious bered the early Christians in Rome worshipped The pastors said transforming the space
falls in early February forced many churches to invite us in to hold services,” said Rev. Dr. weekly in the catacombs. They were undaunted for Sunday worship was simple. Furniture
across the state to forego services. Neff. “They made it possible for us to worship by their surroundings because as Christians was rearranged; a cross, candlesticks, and altar
The downtown church building sits atop a despite the weather.” they believed that, through the resurrected cloths were brought from the church. A video
steep hill. The combination of snow, ice, and More than 80 members and guests attended. Jesus, death was overcome. projector and screen displayed the hymns and
steep grade threatened to keep away even the “We were blown away by the attendance,” “We got a little taste of that for ourselves. Communion liturgy.
bravest members. On Friday (Feb. 4), Senior said Rev. Atterberry. “There were folks of
Pastor Charles Neff and Associate Pastor Ruth all ages, from newborns to elderly. The little Whatever the weather, do you have a plan?
Atterberry acted to find an alternate site. chapel felt quite full.”
They moved the Sunday mornig worship “Some may have come for the novelty,” In the story above, one Oklahoma church Your church can get help to prepare a re-
service down the hill—to Bishop’s Funeral Neff said, “while I know others who shied secured a way to continue ministry amid Feb- sponse plan through Volunteers In Mission
Home. The facility offers a 150-seat chapel, away. The creep factor in moving to a funeral ruary’s record snowfall and cold temperatures. (VIM) and The United Methodist Church’s
That choice was impossible for many other Property and Casualty Trust (UMC PACT).
churches and ministry sites. n “Developing a Local Church Di-
Gift to OCU establishes • Asbury UMC in Tulsa, with the largest
membership in the state, was forced to cancel
saster Plan,” a free VIM resource, can be
downloaded online. Follow the Disaster
Sunday services. Response links at www.okvim.org. Among
program on addiction • The warehouse roof collapsed under the
snow’s weight at Restore Hope Ministries,
the brochure’s points: identify vulnerable
populations within the church and the com-
As Jack Turner thumbed through a news- which assists the poor in Tulsa. munity, establish alternate meeting sites,
• Water flooded part of New Hope UMC back-up all important data, and review
paper, he found story after story with one One-day in Oklahoma City after pipes froze and burst. insurance coverage.
common factor: the problem of addiction.
One solution: education. seminar set Before all that snow melted, Oklahomans n Education and information from
Turner said he has been glad to see some were being warned of wildfire dangers due PACT is online, at www.umcpact.org.
progress in the last few years for treating the
for Stillwater to extreme drought and high winds. Now the “Emergency Preparedness for Your Church”
illness of addiction, but he believes little has At Stillwater-First UMC, a one-day calendar shows a new month—taking us into is one title.
been done to prevent addiction. seminar on addiction is set April 4. tornado season. Rick Carlin, program administrator for
That’s why Turner, a member of OKC-St. “Surviving the Addiction: Yours, Is your church prepared for a weather the Oklahoma Conference insurance plan
Luke’s, recently made a $500,000 donation Mine, and Ours” explores family is- disaster? for churches within the PACT coverage,
to fund a new program at Oklahoma City sues. The program begins at 8:30 a.m. This winter’s challenges make obvious said, “I hope you will take advantage of all
University. and is offered through Addiction Min- the need for advance planning in Oklahoma the resources available to you to make your
Turner’s donation will be administered by istries of the Oklahoma Conference. to cope with a wide range of weather events. church a safe and secure place.”
the Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation Presenters will be Herb Smith, a
and will establish a five-year program in ad- marriage and family therapist; pastor
diction prevention studies at OCU’s Petree Dane Lemmons, with a master’s in
College of Arts and Sciences, beginning in counseling psychology; and Annette
Fall 2011. Harper, Addiction Ministries director.
Dean Mark Davies said the university will Harper described addiction as
work toward making the program permanent. a family disease. “One in every 10
The Oklahoma Conference’s Addiction Min- Americans has an addiction and di-
istries also will be in a relationship with the rectly affects four family members or
program, explained Annette Harper, director other people close to them,” she said.
of that agency. “With those statistics, you have
“We’re family,” she said about the inter- to say that half the people in our
woven efforts by OCU, the Foundation, and congregations are hurting from this.
the Conference in battling addictions. She As Church, how do we empower
sees the new program as a great example of our families to confront the monster
the Church’s connectional excellence. called addiction? Our churches need
Turner has served on two governor’s task to be aware and open to address the
forces regarding addiction and on the board hurts of families, as well as compas-
for the Oklahoma Department of Mental sionate support for the addict.”
Health and Substance Abuse Service. Register by March 25. Fee, $25,
He wants to make Oklahomans more includes resources and lunch.
aware of how addiction adversely impacts (www.addictionministries.org)
the lives of thousands of Oklahomans, and
the state’s economy as well. cause of drug and alcohol addiction and
“A lot of people don’t realize how critical abuse.
the problem of addiction is and how many Turner met with Dr. Davies and OCU
lives it affects,” Turner said. faculty members from various disciplines
He pointed to a study, conducted for the to discuss the new program for addiction
most recent Governor’s Task Force, which prevention studies. He was impressed with
found the economic impact of drug and their interest in the ever-increasing effect of
alcohol addiction and abuse cost the state addiction on students and society.
and its citizens as much as $4.38 billion in Turner said OCU, the only United Meth-
2003. The findings also disclosed that, each odist university in the state, is charged to fol-
year, more than 6,500 students in Oklahoma low Christian teachings for helping the sick.
colleges and universities drop out because “That’s what the Church is called to do,
of problems related to addiction and abuse. and to do anything less than to get involved
National studies reveal that as many as would be failure,” he said. “There’s a lot of
85 percent of people in prison are there be- people to help out there.”
Page 8A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact March 4, 2011

Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation insights

First steps lead to lasting impressions


Overcoming your fears Basketball game
can be hardest part
of creating a will shoots for funds
Many people are intimidated by the Don’t forget to
prospect of creating a will. Yet prepar- purchase your OKC
ing a will is as simple as writing a letter. Thunder Nothing
A well-written will is nothing more and But Nets tickets! Call
nothing less than a statement of what is Barbara Gayle now
important to you. at the Foundation, at
The most complicated part of prepar- 405-609-3103.
ing a will is simply taking the first step: On Nothing But Nets Night, April 8, Oklahoma
deciding to do it. City’s professional basketball team will play the
The Oklahoma United Methodist Foun- Denver Nuggets.
dation has a free booklet, A Christian’s Purchase tickets for the game through the
Guide to Planning Your Will or Trust, that witnesses and other formalities to make write their wills. You probably will spend Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation, and a
can help you with the information needed sure your will is authentic and reflects your far less than you expected and receive portion of the price will benefit Nothing But Nets,
for your will. wishes. Miss one of these requirements far more peace of mind than you thought providing insecticide-treated bed nets to prevent
Whether you are creating a will for the and your will may be invalid. If you hire possible. malaria.
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charge relatively little for this service. They requirements—and suggest new ideas to charitable causes important to you. malaria, one of the largest killers of children in
are experienced in writing wills and can make things even easier. Contact the Foundation at 800-259- Africa. The United Methodist Church and the
walk you through the process. Take a moment today to consult your 6863 for your complimentary copy of A NBA are partners in Nothing But Nets, along with
Certain states have very specific re- attorney. If you do not have an attorney, Christian’s Guide to Planning Your Will the United Nations Foundation, Sports Illustrated,
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The oklahoma United Methodist Foundation inc., 4201 Classen Blvd., oklahoma City 73118; www.okumf.org; 800-259-6863

Briefly
Frederick to host
OSU Wesley rally
At Frederick UMC on March 26, the
Wesley Foundation at OSU will host the Youth workers
first in a series of campus ministry pep to meet in OKC
rallies. If you are involved with youth
“First Regional Pep Rally” will be ministry (as a volunteer, staff per-
6-8 p.m. at Frederick, in southwest Okla- son, or pastor), you will benefit by
homa. The fun will include a dinner of attending Youth Workers Gathering,
finger foods. on March 25-26 in Oklahoma City
Reservations are due by March 22. at Church of the Servant.
Contact wesleyosu@gmail.com, 405- Keynote speaker is Reginald
372-5830, 405-880-7194. Blount, a Garrett Evangelical Semi-
nary professor of Formation, Youth,
Event to help and Culture. Guest preacher is
Worshippers pull together to break ground Jan. 23 for a building project. smaller churches Bishop Hayes.
Among notable presenters at the Breakout sessions will focus on:
Elk City breaks ground for expansion Small Church Leadership Institute in
March will be former Oklahoma Bishop
• Getting Kids and Parents To Have
Faith Development as a Primary
Worshippers at Elk City UMC recreational activities for all ages, Bruce Blake and Andy Oden, with the Priority
lined up to plow ground Jan. 23 for and district events. A new kitchen Oklahoma United Methodist Founda- • Ministering To Students in a
an addition to the facility. and courtyard are planned. tion. The conference will be held March Large-Church Setting
Symbolic of the capital cam- Construction is expected to take 20-24 at Mount Sequoyah Retreat Center, • Creating Youth Worship Experi-
paign theme, “Together With God 14 months. The Building Commit- Fayetteville, Ark. ences Without a Large Budget
We Can,” they pulled together on tee is led by Terry Pasby. (www.mountsequoyah.org) • Native American Youth
a rope attached to an antique hand Major funding is from an en- • Youth Ministry in the Small-
plow. The long rope stretched from dowment by C. Kelly and a more Membership Church: Working
the front lawn into the sanctuary so recent estate gift by Bill and Caro- A retreat on social justice
March 11-12 with 10 or Less
all could participate. lyn Music. The congregation is Sponsors are youTheology, a
The $4.3 million project will raising an additional $1.35 million. at Canyon Camp
“Social Holiness: On Earth program of Saint Paul School of
include a narthex, with a welcome The groundbreaking service Theology; Discipleship Ministries
center and space for fellowship and was led by Clinton District Super- as It Is in Heaven”
Featuring Tony Campolo of the Oklahoma Conference; and
Chuck Nordean, left, receptions. There will be a Life intendent Chuck Nordean and Elk Church of the Servant.
and Dan Peil stand be- Center for fellowship dinners, New City’s pastoral staff of Dan Peil, www.okumc.org/
church_society (www.youtheology.com/
side an antique plow. Day worship, the annual Bazaar, Carlos Ramirez, and Wendi Neal. youthworkersoc)

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