Contact, an edition of

The United Methodist Reporter

Two Sections, Section A • 039000 • Volume 157, Number 25 • October 22, 2010

THE OKLAHOMA UNITED METHODIST

n Tulsa-Asbury hosts UMW, 7A

www.okumc.org n VIM studies Gen X & Y, 4A

Wang commissioned as new missionary

New United Methodist missionary entation and train- istry at the University of Oklahoma (OU),
Fuxia Wang of Norman was commissioned ing in New York. and works with leaders of the Norman
Oct. 12, in Stanford, Conn., in a General “I have learned Chinese Fellowship, the Oklahoma Confer-
Board of Global Ministries (GBGM) cer- more about cross- ence, and South Oklahoma City District.
emony. cultural servant- Before coming to the U.S., Wang taught
Assigned to ministry with the Chinese hood, UMC mis- English in China. She came to the U.S. for
community in the Norman area, she may be sion theology, self- graduate study at the University of Central
the first GBGM missionary from mainland care, etc.,” Wang Oklahoma (UCO), Edmond. She was an
China to serve in the United States. said. “I am having atheist until Christ found her in Oklahoma
Rev. Wang was ordained in June as Wang great fellowship in 1996.
an elder of the Oklahoma Conference. In time with mission- Through the UM Chinese ministry
July, she began her service as a U.S.-based aries serving in Thailand, Tunisia, and active on the UCO campus, she was in-
Church and Community Worker, the of- Switzerland. As we talked the talk, we troduced to Christianity and responded to
ficial GBGM designation. also walked the walk—I walked 4 miles God’s call to full-time ministry. She com-
Higher Education 101 Recent months for her have been filled round-trip with my colleagues, to the pleted her theological studies in California
with tutoring, preaching, and meeting with Hudson River!” in 2002. She was appointed in 2006 to the
You will gain knowledge from coverage,
pastors and congregations. She spent more In Norman, Wang is based at the Wesley campus ministry staff at OU.
in this issue, that spotlights Higher Educa-
tion in the Church. Among the topics in the than two weeks in GBGM missionary ori- Foundation, which is the UM campus min- Continued on page 8A
special supplement: high rankings for UM-
related schools, the importance of campus
ministry programs, and news of more
young adults entering seminary.
In Oklahoma, 18 colleges are served by
UM campus ministries. In photo, students
in Tulsa converse under a shade tree at
the Wesley Foundation, University of Tulsa, Talented
during a recent picnic luncheon. In back-
ground, musicians play Caribbean rhythms.
Charlie Spears is campus minister there.
transformations
TU story, 6A.
Kids have fun showing
Oklahoma City University is the only
United Methodist university in the state.
off their talents during
Saint Paul School of Theology at OCU is a Project Transforma-
one of 13 UM seminaries in the nation. tion Talent Show held
Story, 2A. at Moore-First United
The special supplement was produced Methodist Church, the
by the UMReporter, the publishing partner newest host site for
for Contact. the summer program.
Talents included hula
hooping, karate kicking,
and piano playing.
Story, 5A.
Photos by Amelia Ballew

Design debut
This is the new official logo of the United
Methodist Ministry Center, the Conference’s
headquarters in Oklahoma City. In the
design, the color red reflects the red clay
of Oklahoma’s soil, and a rising sun recalls
the state’s extensive days of sunshine.
Boundary lines on a state map show the 12
districts of our Church. The UM cross-and-
flame emblem overlooks all. The logo was
created by graphics designer Alicia Galyon
of the Communications Department.

The United Methodist Reporter (USPS 954-500) is published weekly by UMR Communications, 1221 Profit Drive, Dallas, TX 75247. Periodicals Postage Paid at Dallas.
Postmaster: Send address changes to The United Methodist Reporter, PO Box 660275, Dallas, TX 75266-0275.
Page 2A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact Oct. 22, 2010

Laity from across state TEAM to learn more

By Leon Wilson
Purcell-Trinity UMC
One evening, I received a call from the South Oklahoma
City District Lay Leader, asking if I was interested in joining a
group for some leadership training. We talked about T.E.A.M.
2010. I had never heard of it before, but after some thought
and prayer, I said “Yes.”
Isn’t this how many exciting and life-changing events start?
T.E.A.M. 2010 is a group of laity, church members just
like you and me, from all over Oklahoma that is meeting four
times during this year to learn more about our Oklahoma
Conference and our missions. The Board of Laity directs this
new leadership development effort.
Just like our churches, the team’s members are diverse,
from every walk of life, age, and education level. All that
is requested is that we love the Lord and are willing to do a
little more for our Church. By going on this learning journey,
we are gaining more knowledge about opportunities for our
churches and about ways we may be able to serve at the
Conference and District levels.
During our first session we traveled to Cross Point Camp,
on Lake Texoma. There we met with Bishop Hayes; we stud-
ied the Strategic Plan and joined in devotions and worship
services. Camps Director Randy McGuire guided us through
team-building exercises and showed us how Camps positively
affect people’s lives, bringing them closer to God.
Our second meeting was at the 2010 Annual Conference
in Tulsa, and the third meeting was with the Board of Laity in
September at the United Methodist Ministry Center in Okla-
homa City. We also met on campus with leaders of Oklahoma
City University and Saint Paul School of Theology at OCU.
Our last meeting will be in the Lawton area in November.
Every step of the way on this faith journey, we are guided
and mentored by laity who have much leadership experience
in our Conference. Judy Benson, Chuck Stewart, Herschel
Beard, Bruce Ewing, and Mark Springer have been great
mentors for our team.
This faith walk for me has been meaningful. I have had
the opportunity to network with a wonderful group of folks,
both team members and those who have spoken to us about
their parts in our United Methodist ministry. I always look
forward to the next time we get together. All of our churches
are stronger because we are connected to each other.
The more we meet together and learn what other folks
are doing in their churches, the more ideas are sparked for
each church. It is great to celebrate the successes at many of
our churches, and to give support and suggestions to those
who seek input.
Each of us gains individually, too, through more opportu-
nities to use personal talents for the service of the Lord. We
have taken part in many moving worship services, devotions,
and witnessing. It has made me a stronger Christian and a
better Christian leader.
I have become a more passionate, dedicated person in my
At Cross Point Camp, Leon Wilson is at right.
church by seeing what others have done, seeing possibilities.
T.E.A.M. 2011 is being designed right now. The atten-
dance goal is to include two laity representatives from each
District. T.E.A.M. 2011 may be that next step for you as a
Christian, as this year’s class has been for me.
Pray about it. Talk to your District Lay Leader. Informa-
tion to contact that person in each district is at: www.okumc.
org/pages/detail/827. Early next year, the 2011 class will start.
We would love for you to join us.
Wayne Grider* TEAM 2010 members: Ardmore District: Pam
Anderson, Judy Grider; Bartlesville District: Bill and Sharon Brown;
Tulsa District: James McAlester, Christy Morrison, Suanne Bailes;
Lawton District: Penny Scott, Christy Clark; Stillwater District:
Rhonda and Alethia Bartley; South OKC: Eve Hawley, Leon Wil-
son; Muskogee District: Rebecca Whisman, and Jeremy Jones
*The group renamed itself in memory of member Wayne
Grider, of Ardmore, who died June 25.

New degree offered: Master of Religious Education

The relationship between the Wimberly
School of Religion and Saint Paul School
of Theology at Oklahoma City University
continues to bear much fruit. The two schools
now have joined together to offer the Master
of Religious Education (MRE) degree.
The MRE is a professional degree for
those who want to prepare for service in the
Church as a director of Christian education,
director of program ministries, director of
youth or children’s ministries, or other min-
istries related to religious education.
This degree meets the criteria of The
United Methodist Church for certification as
Director of Christian Education or Director
of Youth Ministry.
This program also meets all the educa-
tional requirements for those seeking ordina-
tion as deacons.
Graduate students in this program will
complete 56-59 credit hours. These cover
a broad range of topics, including biblical
studies, evangelism, and worship.
The foundational courses are taken
through Saint Paul School of Theology and
comprise 27-28 credit hours. The remain-
ing hours are Christian education courses
and electives taken through the Wimberly
Dr. Sharon Betsworth, left, OCU’s Wimberly School of Religion director,
and Dr. Elaine Robinson, right, dean of Saint Paul at OCU, team up to offer
a new religious education degree.
School of Religion at OCU.
Specialized training is offered in areas
such as the Bible in Christian Education,
religious and moral development, and
age-level ministries. Courses in United
Methodist history and polity, along with
Wesleyan tradition and theology, provide a
solid understanding of our particular branch
of Christianity.
“The Master of Religious Education at
OCU is the only program in the region that
is also approved for the Order of Deacon
with a degree which specializes in Christian
education,” said Dr. Sharon Betsworth, di-
rector of the Wimberly School of Religion.
“As such, we have a unique opportunity to
train and prepare persons here in Oklahoma
for ministry in a variety of areas of religious
education.”
Dr. Elaine Robinson, the dean of Saint
Paul at OCU, adds, “The MRE degree is
another example of the value of this partner-
ship between Saint Paul and OCU. Everyone
benefits when we collaborate on programs
like this one.”
Upon acceptance, students may en-
ter the religion program during fall and
spring semesters. For more information
about the Wimberly School of Religion
& Graduate Theological Center and the
religion programs available to you, visit:
www.okcu.edu/religion. You also may
contact the Office of Graduate Admissions,
800-633-7242, 405-208-5951.

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 Amelia Ballew, The Media Center
Holly McCray, editor
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: Nov. 12.
 Page 3A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact Oct. 22, 2010

Strength for the journey: Ideas and thoughts from our bishop

When detours are opportunities

Then one of the leaders of the synagogue, named Jairus,
came and, when he saw Jesus, fell at his feet and begged him
repeatedly, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come
and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well, and
live.” So Jesus went with him.—Mark 5:22-24
and lay his hands on the man’s dying daughter.
This was clearly an interruption. It forced Jesus to make
a decision: Should I go ahead with what I was about to do,
or should I go with this stranger who came from nowhere
and altered my plans?
The next sentence indicates no hesitation at all, for it
was too late. Jairus was told, “Don’t trouble him any longer.”
But Jesus responded, “Do not fear, only believe.” And he
went to the man’s house.
He put outside all the weeping and wailing bystanders
and, with Jairus and his wife, Jesus entered the girl’s room.
He took her by the hand and instructed her to get up! And

L
By Bishop Robert Hayes Jr.
ife is what happens to us as we are headed to some
other place. We all set our courses and chart our
futures, but inevitable
detours and interruptions invade
our well-crafted plans. Unfore-
seen, they force us to re-direct and
sometimes completely change the
courses of our lives.
No one is immune from these
unexpected turns. Not even Jesus.
In the Gospel of Mark, we
find this beautiful narrative that
records a day in the life of Jesus.
The story begins with Jesus cast-
Bishop Hayes
ing out demons from a herd of
swine and restoring a demoniac to health. Those two events
so infuriated the community that the residents insisted Jesus
leave their neighborhood.
The narrative continues: Jesus got into a boat and crossed
to the other side of the lake, but crowds were waiting on him
there as well. And just as he was about to speak to the people
gathered there, Jairus fell at his feet, begging Jesus to come
states, “He went with him.”
But on his way to Jairus’ house, Jesus faced a disruption
in that plan, too. Within the crowd following him, pressing
upon him, a woman with a flow of blood attempted to touch
the hem of his robe. Undoubtedly she had heard stories of how
Jesus had healed people and made them whole; she probably
concluded that her only hope in the large crowd was to touch
his robe so she, too, could be made well.
In New Testament times, a woman with a flow of blood
was forbidden to be near other people. Her act could have
cost her life.
Yet she succeeded in touching him, and immediately Jesus
stopped and asked, “Who touched me?” So many people
were pushing and shoving around Jesus that the disciples
didn’t understand how he could make a statement like that.
But the woman came forward and admitted to being the one
who touched Jesus.
Here was another interruption. Yet Jesus paused on his
route to Jairus’ house. He said to the woman, “Your faith has
made you whole.”
As he was attending to her need, a much greater roadblock
loomed. Word reached the group that Jairus’ little girl had
died. There was no need for Jesus to go to the house now. It
the child not only got up, but also began to walk around.
Everyone was amazed.
Jesus had a unique way of turning detours into oppor-
tunities. Whenever life threw Jesus a curve, he always hit a
homerun. Whenever life sidetracked him, Jesus had the ability
to reveal the hand of God in that.
When we reflect for a moment, we realize that sometimes
detours are not detours at all. Interruptions to our ready-made
plans are not always what they seem. Oftentimes God—in
infinite wisdom—places in our pathways the sign “This way
closed!” in order to lead us in other ways chosen for us.
Has it occurred to you that a detour from your plans may
be a straight line to God’s purposes?
The events of this one day in the life of Christ remind
us that a momentary interruption may mean a lifelong op-
portunity to be of service to God. Jairus opened the door of
opportunity to Jesus. Christ went through that door and fol-
lowed that new path to restore a woman’s health and faith,
and to display the awesome power of God by bringing a little
girl back to life.
The very next time life forces you to alter your course in
your day, look for the hand of God in that. It may turn out to
be the best day of your life.

Bishop’s Retreats re-introduce class meeting model Itinerary announced for

By Andy James
Pastor, Tuttle UMC
“We have been brought here to
discuss major and serious issues
concerning the Kingdom of God.” So
Jim Scott opened his presentation to
United Methodist clergy at Canyon
Camp.
The gathering at Canyon was the
first of three Bishop’s Retreats held
the week of Sept. 19 for Oklahoma
Conference clergy. Each UM camp
hosted a retreat.
The great-grandson of a Methodist
minister, Rev. Dr. Scott poured out
his heart to the pastors as he recalled
elements of his own faith story, de-
scribed the Church’s present reality,
and expressed his desire to finish well.
He and his wife, Rev. Dr. Molly
Davis-Scott, facilitated the retreats.
Prior to attending, clergy were en-
couraged to read a book co-authored
by the Scotts, “Restoring Methodism:
10 Decisions for United Methodist
Churches in America.”
Clergy and laity are well aware of
trends that point to declining church
membership, worship attendance,
and religious affiliation in the United
States. Jim recalled the words of Jesus
to the Pharisees and Sadducees, “You
know how to interpret the appearance
of the sky, but you cannot interpret the
signs of the times.”
clergy Holy Land tour with bishop
Distinctives of the Wesleyan class meeting:
• Not a program Bishop Hayes has confirmed the itinerary for the July
• Not a prayer meeting 4-15 clergy educational tour he will lead in the Holy Land.
• Not a self-help group Those who have expressed their desire to participate will be
• Class leaders required to read in-depth materials contacted soon.
• Class leaders could be dismissed for impropriety “We will walk, see, feel, and touch the roots of our faith,
(improper behavior or lackluster meetings) encounter the Divine, and sense God’s presence,” Bishop
—Jim and Molly Davis-Scott Hayes said. “Arriving home, our Bible will never be the same,
for it will be alive in our eyes.
Jim then asked, “Do you know retrieval of lost ideas and practices. “My recent trip to Israel changed my life in such a pro-
how to interpret the signs of the times Restoration became his theme for found way that I would like to invite newly ordained pastors
right now?” the Church, and he meant restoration to have the opportunity to experience what I did.”
He asserted, “America has become to health, as when Jesus restored the The trip is primarily designed for clergypersons ordained
a secular nation, and this has pro- withered hand and the blind man’s within the last six years, with a limited goal of 45 people.
found implications for the way we do sight. The first two days are dedicated to air travel to Jerusalem.
church.” He called on the audience to Jim asserted, “Our future lies in July 6—Mount of Olives, sites in Jerusalem
remember how the Church ministered our past. There are times in our his- 7—Dead Sea area, including Massada
when Methodism was one of the most tory when it looked like the Church 8—Jerusalem, retracing Jesus’ last steps
powerful religious movements. was bound for extinction, but it has 9—Bethlehem and the Garden Tomb
Molly suggested that restoring the overcome.” 10—Old City, including the Jewish Quarter
Wesleyan class meeting could be a Molly challenged pastors, “By and 11—Jericho and the Jordan Valley
key to overturning trends of decline large, we are neglecting our teach- 12—Northern Israel (the area of the tribe of Dan)
and transforming lives. According to ing ministry [in United Methodist 13—Sea of Galilee area, including sailing in a replica
her, “The Wesleyan class meeting is churches]. Where there is a teaching fishing boat and a baptism service at the Jordan River
the heart of Methodism.” void [in congregations], people fill 14—Coastal plain, including Nazareth and Caesarea
The Scotts said John Wesley, the the void with what they knew before 15—Depart for home
founder of Methodism, considered the or what they see on the television.” The cost per person, $3,999, is based on double occupancy
same issues we face today. The canon of United Methodism is and includes round-trip airfare from Oklahoma City, most
He looked at the first 600 years diverse but not vague, she said. “We meals, and 10 nights’ lodging. Funding options are being
of the Church and gleaned from that have a wide table, but we have edges developed.
history the idea of the class meeting, on that table.” Registrars are Derrek Belase and Dena Dunkerson, in
among other insights. “Our hope alone is in the Holy Stillwater, highlandparkumc@suddenlinkmail.com. If you
Wesley did not come up with Spirit, not our cleverness or our cre- have not previously noted your interest, you may still do so.
merely a revision of ideas, the Scotts ativity,” he said. “The answer is not in Go to www.okumc.org/Bishops_schedule for the detailed
said, but chose instead a radical some new program. It is in the heart.” itinerary.
Page 4A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact Oct. 22, 2010

Following “We want to reach more people, more diverse people, and
more young people.”—A core belief of the Strategic Plan

the VIM explores ways to connect with young adults

Plan By Sarah Malloy Nichols
Working and researching for Oklahoma Volunteers In Mission
(VIM), I have learned more than I ever thought possible about
Generations X and Y, and how they and the Church relate to
one another.
First of all, it is important to under-
stand that Generations X and Y live up
to and falsify their stereotypes.
While both generations tend to
earn their “me generation” titles, they
are also extremely concerned with
serving others and leaving this world
better than they found it.
Although both generations are
considered “digital natives,” they do
not necessarily need technology to
saturate their worship experiences.
To attract Generations X and Y, care
must be taken to provide more sub-
stance than a coffee shop and a couple of screens.
Volunteers In Mission would like to take further
action by including them (in larger numbers) in our
mission trips.
Secondly, what is keeping young adults out of
church and, more specifically, VIM?
According to an Interpreter article*, people
of that age group “have not rejected spirituality.
What they’ve rejected is the tradition and what
they perceive to be the hypocrisy of the Church.”
The same article stresses that Gen-
eration Y is “the most civic-minded
since the generation of the 1930s
and ’40s. This is a generation of
activist doers.”
What both quotes mean for VIM
is that we have a leg up! VIM is an
organization of “activist doers” with
an eye toward Christian service.
I suggest that VIM and the Oklaho-
ma United Methodist Church consider
what forms of “hypocrisy” young adults
might perceive from us and continue to be
in conversation with younger adults about
what must be done to be perceived as a
community that is open and genuine.
So, let’s converse …
According to a USA Today study of over
1,800 [members of] Generation Y, 61 per-
cent of 13- to 25-year-olds feel personally
responsible for making a difference in the
world.
The same article indicates that 81 percent
of that group volunteered in the past year.
Young adults are volunteering, and they
do feel responsible for a positive impact on
our world; they’re just not all participating
in religious-led volunteer/mission groups.
So, what do I propose?
n The young-adult retreats we began in Spring
2010 continue. I passed on the curriculum Jeremy
Basset and I created, and I hope to see the retreats
grow as a ministry to and from young adults and
young-adult workers.
n Oklahoma churches work with VIM to improve
young-adult participation in missions and the local
church.
n On a grassroots level, every VIM team (both
domestic and international) include a scholarship for
a young adult to join in the mission.
The Interpreter article confirms that young adults
are “looking for things that allow them to get outside
the church to do things,” but adds that they feel un-
able to give a substantial tithe and/or participate in
expensive mission trips.
The article suggests, “Opportunities to share time
and energy might overcome insecurity about small
donations, a barrier that can keep them out of church.”
n Lastly, I ask that VIM encourage intergenera-
tional mission trips.
When I was 18, I went on an intergenerational
VIM trip to South Africa (a graduation gift to me from
an older woman in my church). As I worked alongside
the retiree volunteers of our Conference, my hope and
faith that the Church is an ever-evolving work of God
was renewed in their encouragement and love. That
mission trip changed my life.
I am certain that young-adult participation will
improve in the Church as well as within VIM if the
entire Conference works to encourage inter-gener-
ational mission teams. These teams will eliminate
generational stereotypes and prejudices, and they will
allow young adults to see a side of the Church they
may have not
perceived. I am Generation X refers generally
confident these to people born between 1961
teams will pro- and 1981. Generation Y
vide vital service members are younger than
that population and often
to the life of our called the Millennials.
Church and the
organization by
renewing and encouraging all who participate.
I believe in the Oklahoma Church’s power to turn
this issue upside-down and transform it into blessing.
I leave you with the confidence of my youth and the
faith of my elders.
Conclusion
This article is excerpted from a report by Sarah
Nichols during her internship with VIM, and leaders
of that ministry are drawing on its insights as their
programming moves forward. She is a former co-chair
of the Young Adult Ministry Council.
*Interpreter is the denomination’s bimonthly
ministry magazine. Story was “(Not) Talkin’ ’Bout
My Generation.”

Mission service in July by Oklahoma young adults boosted progress on

Photos provided by Jeff Jaynes
a new sanctuary for El Camino church in Reynosa, Mexico. Sponsored by
the Young Adults Council and led by Andy Henson of Tahlequah, the team built
concrete-block walls on the church’s rooftop terrace and did stucco work. Temporary pews
in the new building are among these images. One day, women of the church made
tamales for the team, whose members were: Duncan Kilgore, Adam Hughes, Carlita Crook,
Brent Huggins, Brian Ivey, Desiree Sharp, Jeff Jaynes, and Henson.
This page continues a series focusing on the
Oklahoma Con ference Strategic Plan.
Page 5A
Project Transformation is a UM literacy daycamp
for elementary students
Read all about it
By Cindy Mayes
One outstanding aspect of Project Trans-
formation (PT) is that it is intergenerational.
From the elementary-age children participat-
ing in the program to the youth groups who
volunteer, the college kids who spend their
summers at church sites running the program,
and the adults of all ages who volunteer their
time as mentors, it truly is a fully intergen-
erational ministry in the life of the Church.
Volunteer Esther Gene Morrison, from
Tulsa-Asbury UMC, is in her late 80s. She
speaks fluent Spanish, developed from years
of service as a missionary, and many of the
kids are Hispanic at the Tulsa-Southern Hills
site. What a great match.
At Tulsa-Grace, Bobbie East is “84 years
young,” as described by site coordinator
Donna Real. A disruptive young camper was
befriended by East. The coordinator shared
the outcome:
“Bobbie began talking and visiting with
him, encouraging him to be an excellent par-
ticipant in the program. He responded to her
love and concern and became almost an ideal
camper. Bobbie ended up having a special
token made for him, with his name engraved
on it. The camper has been attending some
[church] services and has brought a friend.
“A few years ago, Bobbie also made a re-
lationship with another child, who had some
severe emotional problems, and has contin-
ued to send him books and birthday cards.
He came in to thank Bobbie this year when
his mother was picking up other campers.”
At Tulsa-Southern Hills UMC, hosting
PT again this summer led the congregation to
respond to an entire family in sudden crisis.
Pastor Jeff Jaynes told the story:
“We’ve had two girls in our program since
nearly the beginning. They moved out of the
area to another school, but their mom has
seen the effect of Project Transformation on
the girls’ lives. She reapplied every summer.
Dressed in Sudanese clothing provided
by Sara Brown, youth members at
Tahlequah model a hand-washing ritual.
The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact
“Halfway through this summer, [we]
got a call that the girls’ home burned to the
ground. Everything, including a beloved
pet, was consumed. The girls were not only
heartbroken; they had nothing but the clothes
on their backs.
“Our church pitched in to provide needed
items as well as short-term financial sup-
port. We provided spiritual and emotional
help for the girls and their mother. Project
Transformation not only transformed a tragic
situation into one of growth—it also helped
connect our church to a need we could help
fulfill.”
Also in Tulsa, Aldersgate UMC moved
the program to the former UM Church of the
Shepherd building. This was truly a bless-
ing, since Aldersgate’s building was in the
midst of repairs from a tornado. They were
able to set everything up to specifically suit
the program. There was no need of moving
things back into place for Sunday. It allowed
for a lot of freedom.
Over the course of eight years, I’ve
watched so many people be changed by
their experience with the program. When
people immerse themselves in this ministry,
it grabs them and they want to continue to
be involved in it.
The children are certainly impacted.
But so are the young adults who intern as
program leaders.
Daniel Reck, an intern for two years and
the Tulsa house chaplain this summer, is
now studying economics in graduate school
in Michigan. I met Daniel when he came to
volunteer at Tulsa-Grace after he graduated
from high school; he volunteered over 250
hours that summer. Some of his undergradu-
ate work at OU focused on poverty issues in
Oklahoma. That focus was a direct result of
his experience with PT. He will be a vocal
advocate on issues of poverty wherever he
goes and whatever he does.
Tahlequah church studies Sudan
In September, small-group studies
at local churches—especially by United
Methodist Women—often launch on one
of the three topics introduced each July at
the Conference’s Cooperative School of
Christian Mission.
Tahlequah-First UMC presented the
topic “The Beauty and Courage of Sudan”
as a combined Sunday school focus on
Sept. 19. Janet Stucky, who co-chairs the
church Mission and Service Team, reported
more than 80 people attended the evening
program.
Youths led a Sudanese hand-washing
ritual. Dudley Brown provided a Sudanese
soup, a green-leaf vegetable soup with
chicken, and Sara Brown prepared a special
tea. A local pizzeria owner made the bread
for the meal.
Oct. 22, 2010
Photo by Amelia Ballew
An AmeriCorps intern, right, encourages four girls, who sang and danced
during a Project Transformation talent show at Moore-First UMC.
By the numbers:
• Total campers—462
• Assessments showed 92 percent of campers sustained or improved reading levels.
• Total volunteers—1,091
• Total AmeriCorps interns—48
• Site churches—8 UM churches (in Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and Bartlesville)
• Partner Churches—40 UM churches and 10 others (approx.)
• Total meals served—33,218
• Adriane Jaynes of Tulsa is new chairperson of the PT Board of Directors.
PT has changed my whole family. Both with a new set of eyes.
my daughters and one son-in-law were in- PT makes you believe that one person
terns. My other son-in-law spent much of really can make a difference. When you wit-
one summer volunteering. I’ve experienced ness the changes in the children, the interns,
the program from its pregnancy and birth in and the volunteers, it moves you to tears.
Tulsa, as a site supervisor at Grace, chairing You know you’re witnessing God change the
the Tulsa Steering Committee, as a board world, bit by bit, right in front of you. And
member, and as board chairperson. you get to be a part of that. Nothing brings
This ministry makes you see the world more satisfaction and joy.
Earl Mitchell
holds a water-
color print of a
Earl Mitchell of Stillwater taught the Sudanese girl
class. He was a leader at the July school by artist Karrel
and continues to offer the study in Okla- Stevens, right.
homa churches. The art was a
One of his resources was the book gift to Dr. Mitch-
ell for leading
“Out of Darkness: The Lost Girls of
an all-church
Sudan.” Priscilla, one of girls featured
mission study
in the book, spoke at the 2009 School of
at Tahlequah.
Mission.
175 attend School of Mission aballew@okumc.org. One title is “When
The July 2010 school drew 175 partici- Freedom: Sudan in Captivity,” and the other
pants, reported dean Ann Marie Boyce of is “Joy to the World: Mission in the Age
Tulsa, including a dozen in the Spanish- of Global Christianity.” Full list of Media
language study of John. That class was Library titles is at www.okumc.org.
taught by Tino Espinoza of Oklahoma City. The School of Mission was held at Okla-
Video resources for two of the studies homa City University, and participants were
are available on DVD for free checkout housed in the newest dormitory, Oklahoma
from the Media Library, 405-530-2075, United Methodist Hall.
Page 6A
Briefly
n National justice issue
highlighted
Clergy action is urged by two Oklahoma
Conference groups to support the National
Criminal Justice Commission Act.
U.S. Senate Bill 714 would create a federal
commission to review and identify effective
criminal justice policies and make recommen-
dations for reform. The legislation, approved
by the U.S. House, awaits Senate action.
Oklahomans recently were alerted to the
issue through UM-CAN (United Methodist
Constituent Advocacy Network). The Confer-
ence Board of Church & Society, chaired by
Kirt Moelling, and CJAMM (Criminal Justice
& Mercy Ministries), directed by Stan Basler,
endorse the bill.
Rev. Dr. Basler referred to statistics report-
ed by the General Board of Church & Society:
n With 5 percent of the world’s popula-
tion, the U.S. holds 25 percent of the world’s
incarcerated.
n If the 2.3 million people behind bars
comprised a city, it would be the fourth largest
city in the nation.
n Two-thirds of those in prison are African
American or Latino.
The clergy petition is online at: http://
www.umc-gbcs.org/JusticeReformSignOn.
n Campus picnic
draws crowd at TU
On Oct. 1, more than 120 students at the
University of Tulsa (TU) took part in the
Wesley Foundation’s Friday Noon Lunch,
picnicking on BBQ sandwiches and listen-
ing to the Caribbean music of the Something
Steel band.
Friday Noon Lunch is the Wesley Founda-
tion’s weekly outreach program to spread the
message of Jesus to TU students, said campus
minister Charlie Spears. The outdoor meal
Oct. 1 was a special effort to create more vis-
ibility for the UM ministry and provide more
room for the band.
Food was provided by Pastor Ray Craw-
Rural pastor calls for innovation
The elderly farmer declared, “Around
here we appreciate tradition and like doing
things the old way.”
Pastor Mike Mahaffey smiled as he
watched the farmer answer his cell phone
and check the strap securing his all-terrain
vehicle in the bed of his pickup truck. The
phone call had confirmed the GPS was
recalibrated on his air-conditioned tractor.
“The innovations used by farmers and
ranchers today have not changed what they
do, but how they do it,” Rev. Mahaffey
wrote. “They have made living off the land
more efficient, more productive, and more
likely they succeed in the difficult business
they love.”
He identified innovation as crucial
The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact
OPEN DOORS—Outside the United
Methodist Ministry Center, Annette
Harper, left, and Linda Johnston,
right, accept an award from the
state Department of Mental Health,
represented by Young Onuorah,
Prevention Program manager, and
Jessica Hawkins, Prevention Ser-
vices director.
ford, Claremore-First UMC, and Morgan
Dowell’s Barbeque Joint. Greg Spears, the
brother of Rev. Charlie, leads the band.
On Oct. 29, Bishop Hayes will be the
luncheon speaker.
Previous speakers this semester have
included Barron Ryan, a celebrated local
pianist; Roger Wainwright, who leads the TU
computer science and mathematics programs
and is active at Tulsa-First UMC; and UM
missionary Richard Whetsell of Alaska. They
shared how they experience Jesus Christ in
their lives.
(http://www.okumcministries.org/
Campus_Ministry)
for rural churches, too, but congregations
often fear it. “Farms and ranches that have
refused to use innovations are dying. Our
churches face a similar fate.”
He looks forward to regional work-
shops on church growth, Nov. 8-13 in
six towns, that are designed especially
for Oklahoma congregations of 25 to
80 people. All churches are welcome to
participate.
Deadline to sign up is Nov. 1 for “Small
Churches Are the Right Size—and Differ-
ent.” (See list at right)
Mahaffey stated, “Innovation is nothing
more than finding new ideas, new methods,
and new devices to deliver the eternal mes-
sage of hope, redemption, and transforma-
Database update is critical
Between Dec. 15 and 31, each
church is expected to directly access
the Conference online database and en-
ter updated information about its 2011
church officers.
This brand-new procedure and its
timing are crucial to the accuracy of
communications through all levels of
the Church in Oklahoma, emphasized
Joseph Harris, director of Commu-
nications. The names, addresses, and
other content collected in that specific
database are the building blocks for our
n State officials salute
Methodist hospitality
An appreciation award from the state’s
Department of Mental Health and Substance
Abuse Services was recently presented to the
Oklahoma Conference.
The Church’s headquarters building—The
United Methodist Ministry Center in Okla
homa City—provides free meeting space for
the department. And the Conference’s Ad-
diction Ministries joined the state’s “Crystal
Darkness” campaign against the illegal drug
methamphetamine.
Officials of the Ministry Center extend
Christian hospitality by making available its
meeting rooms for groups with relationships
to UM ministries. Receptionist Linda John-
ston maintains the schedule.
Annette Harper, director of Addiction
Ministries, said 19 UM churches took active
part in the “Crystal Darkness” launch.
n 100 years for OKC-Wesley
A year of centennial celebrations will
culminate Nov. 7 at OKC-Wesley church,
1401 N.W. 25th.
In the spotlight that Sunday: preaching
by Bishop Bennie Warner, a former Wesley
pastor; an anthem written by a Wesley choir
member who is an Oklahoma City University
student, commissioned for the 100th anniver-
sary; and music by OCU orchestral students.
Diana Cox Crawford, pastor, said the
church has been looking both back and for-
tion to a world that needs it now as much
as ever … to make us more efficient, more
productive, and more likely to succeed in
the work of being and making disciples for
Jesus Christ—a work I know we all love.
“I pray each of our rural churches takes
this to heart, both clergy and laity alike.”
Find workshop information online at:
www.okumcministries.org/SMC/Work-
shops.htm. Or contact Ann Browning,
405-530-2199, abrowning@okumc.org.
(Mahaffey is pastor at both Catesby and
Fairview (at Slapout), and a member of the
Conference board for rural and smaller
churches. Some of this story is excerpted
from his article in the United Methodist
Rural Fellowship newsletter.)
Oct. 22, 2010
United Methodist connection.
One example: The Conference-paid
Contact subscription list is compiled
using those officer lists.
You will find detailed instructions for
the updating process at www.okumc.org.
The links are: Finance — Local Church
Officer Update Information — Instruc-
tions for Updating Church Information.
The procedure uses the Brick River sys-
tem, accessible via your church’s log-in.
Send questions to websupport@
okumc.org or mmyers@okumc.org.
ward this year. “We have a great past,” she
said. “What are we doing next?”
Upcoming is a mission trip to Liberia,
Bishop Warner’s homeland. On Oct. 23-24 at
the church, the Ruth Haddon Memorial Arts
Festival will help fund the mission, to build
an elementary school. The fine-art festival
will be 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and noon-5
p.m. Sunday.
To contact the church: 525-3521.
n Bishop Hayes Roast
set for Dec. 2
A fun evening with Bishop Robert Hayes
Jr. will benefit a serious cause, on Dec. 2 at
Oklahoma City University.
The Bishop Hayes Roast Event will raise
funds for scholarships. A dinner, the roast, and
live auction are planned, beginning at 6 p.m.
that Thursday in the OCU Great Hall.
Tickets, $100 each, and all other dona-
tions will help Oklahoma United Methodists
attend Saint Paul School of Theology at OCU.
Tom McDaniel chairs the event planning
committee.
Contact Rachel McClain, 405-208-5757,
Rachel.mcclain@spst.edu.
n Training for Lay Speaking
Training courses for Lay Speaking Min-
istries will be offered Nov. 5-6 in Clinton
District (at Clinton UMC), and Nov. 19-20 in
Ardmore District (Cross Point Camp).
Small-church workshops:
• Enid—Nov. 8 (Monday),
5-9 p.m., New Hope UMC
• Locust Grove—Nov. 9 (Tuesday),
5-9 p.m., First UMC
• Atoka—Nov. 10 (Wednesday),
5-9 p.m., First UMC
• Elgin—Nov. 11 (Thursday),
5-9 p.m., First UMC
• Woodward—Nov. 12 (Friday),
5-9 p.m., Faith UMC
• Lexington—Nov. 13 (Saturday),
9 a.m.-4 p.m., Lexington UMC
www.okumcministries.org/SMC/
Workshops.htm
 Page 7A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact Oct. 22, 2010

Appointments

Photo by Thomasena Allen

Ron King to Lindsay
UMC (Ardmore District)
from Carnegie/Mountain
View (Lawton), effective
Oct. 15.
Phillip Hodson, new, to
Calera UMC (Ardmore),
effective Oct. 15.
The United Methodist Women of OKC-Quayle Church chartered Kellas Penny, new, to
a bus to transport 35 of their members to the Annual Meeting. East Central University
From left are Fannie Kaye, Jeni Jackson, and Clara Davis. Campus Ministry, effective
Oct. 1.
Jim Hilton to Marietta/

Women cheer Thackerville (Ardmore)

from Lone Wolf/Granite
(Clinton), effective Oct. 1.

for mission connections Kay Karen Kennedy

to Paoli UMC (Ardmore)
from discontinued, effective
By Thomasena Allen tunity to see God in action because Sept. 1.
OKC-Quayle UMW she received a UMW scholarship John Corbin to retire-
The celebration of mission began to attend the 2010 Assembly, in St. ment from Wynnewood
with a festival of music and finger- Louis, Mo. UMC (Ardmore), effective
food feast on Friday night, as the Keynote speaker Yvette Richards Sept. 1.
United Methodist Women (UMW) challenged the women to be thirsty
of Oklahoma Conference held their to serve and to reclaim the UMW
37th Annual Meeting. mission focus.
Birth
From across the state, 319 women Gift cards valued at $8,400 were Micah Shahan was born
registered for the Oct. 1-2 gathering, given to Cookson Hills Center and Sept. 30, 2010. He is the
held at Tulsa-Asbury UMC. Neighborhood Services Organization son of Aly and Rev. Adam
Friday evening featured intergen- (NSO). The cards again will be col- Shahan. Adam is pastor at
erational talent and musical selections lected in 2011. NSO has a DVD about Lexington UMC, and Aly
that ranged from traditional spirituals its ministry available for check-out. is coordinator of the Local
Photo by Jane Bond
to secular songs. Saturday’s program Cookson Hills Director Meri Whitaker Church Leaders Workshops,
At the UMW Annual Meeting, missionary Meri Whitaker signs
also began with song. Performers said the center recently received six on staff at the United Meth-
copies of her book, “My Sister the Father.” Her collection of
included Hands of Love, an Asbury pottery kilns and many ceramic molds; odist Ministry Center.
stories was chosen for the 2011 UMW Reading Program. The
choir of special-needs adults, minis- they are praying for volunteer potters. book is available through Cookson Hills Center.
tering through sign language. Upcoming hands-on service
The celebration that day spot- opportunities:
lighted the women’s total giving of n Tool Tyme, Nov. 12-14, at
n 75 percent of districts will Patton of Tulsa; Treasurer Betty Pren- Opportunities
scholarship a young woman and a dis- tice of Pryor; Secretary of Program
$345,000 to the Church’s missions Cookson Hills Center, south of Site Director: Skyline
trict officer to all Conference events. Resources Becky Brown of Madill;
in 2009, and their Pledge of $310,000 Tahlequah Urban Minsitry. Clau-
n 90 percent of local units will Communications Coordinator Julie
for 2011. Other special channels of n Neighborhood Santa Operation, dia Lovelace, clovelace
submit reports by Feb. 1 to district Wood of Yukon; Nominating Com-
giving combine with the Pledge to Dec. 4, at NSO in Oklahoma City @skylineurbanministry.org,
coordinators. mittee Chairwoman Flo Conklin of
achieve each year’s total. Goals for 2011: 500 S.E. 15th St., Oklahoma
2011 Conference officers: Stigler; Mission coordinators—Nan-
In a testimony about the impact of n Increase attendance of district City, OK 73129.
President Kathy Caldron of Ponca cy Whittaker of Madill, Annette Loos
that giving, Nancy Koplowitz shared officers by 10 percent at all 2011 Contemporary Wor-
City; Vice President Jo Ellen Reed of of Collinsville, and Jacci Freno and
how she was blessed by the oppor- Conference events. ship Leader: Part-time.
Oklahoma City; Secretary Coe Ann Janice Bryan, both of Oklahoma City.
Chris Tiger, Owasso UMC,
In memoriam seniorpastor@fumcowasso.
org.
Jane Stewart Madine was born Nov. 30, 1919, to William and Joyce Sebastian Business Manager:
Jane Evelyn Regier Stewart, 65, of Bartlesville Belle Ashmore. She was a member of OKC-Church N. Joyce Pledger Baskin Sebastian, 78, of Vi- Full-time. Tulsa-Faith
died Sept. 25, 2010. She was the wife of Rev. David of the Servant. nita died Sept. 4, 2010. She was the widow of Rev. UMC, 918-252-1679,
Stewart, pastor at Oak Park UMC. Survivors include daughter Kathy Joy of Okla- LeRoy “Skip” Sebastian. bhumphrey@faithtulsa.org.
Jane was born March 31, 1945, in Wyandotte, homa City. Joyce was born March 25, 1932, in Havana, Business Manager/Ad-
Mich. She held a business accounting degree from Memorial service was Oct. 2 at Mercer-Adams Ark. In her youth, she was president of the Arkansas ministrative Coordinator:
Oklahoma State University. The Stewarts were Youth for Christ. She worked as a secretary. OKC-First UMC, Staff Par-
Funeral Chapel in Bethany.
married for 43 years. Survivors include sons Garth Baskin of Wich- ish Relations Committee,
She served as Conference treasurer for United ita Falls, Texas, and Blake Baskin of Claremore; sprc@firstchurchokc.com,
Gloria Sanders
Methodist Women and in leadership for the annual daughter Brenda Darnell of Vinita; nine grand- 405-239-6493.
Gloria Belle Williams Sanders, 79, of Oklahoma
Mission Schools in the Oregon-Idaho Conference. children and three great-grandchildren. Joyce was Youth Director: Part-
City died Sept. 12, 2010. She was the widow of Rev. time. Clinton UMC, Roland
Later she worked in the Tulsa office of the predeceased by her first husband, Garth Baskin, and
James E. Sanders. Youngberg, 580-323-3179,
Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation. Rev. Sebastian died in 2002.
Survivors also include her mother, Eunice Regi- Gloria Belle was born July 4, 1931, in Oak Park, Service was Sept. 9 at the Havana, Ark., As- ryoungberg@cableone.net.
er of Tulsa; two daughters, Amy Stewart-Deaker Ill. She met James Sanders while at Cornell College. sembly of God. Musician: Moore-New
of Alameda, Calif., and Laura Weaver of Portland, When he died, in 1989, they had been married 37 Life UMC, 405-793-8393,
Ore.; and three grandchildren. Service was Oct. 2 years. She was a retired teacher and a member of • Wanda Potts, 85, died Oct. 11. She was the newlifeumc@sbcglobal.net.
at Bartlesville-First UMC. OKC-Asbury. mother of Rev. Mickey Potts, retired, and mother- Worship Leader: Con-
Survivors include six children: Margo Hixon, in-law of Rev. Bert Potts, pastor at Edmond-First. temporary service. Barry
Madine Welsh Macy Reynolds, Jason Sanders, David Sanders, • Bernice Brannon, 91, died Aug. 28 in Broken Collins, Fort Gibson UMC,
Bell Madine Welsh, 90, of Oklahoma City died Brian Sanders, and Barry Sanders. Arrow. She was the mother of Rev. Calvin Brannon, bcollins@sbcglobal.net,
Sept. 29, 2010. She was Rev. Delos Welsh’s widow. Service was Sept. 18 at OKC-Asbury UMC. associate pastor at McFarlin UMC, in Norman. 918-478-3811.
Page 8A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact Oct. 22, 2010

Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation insights

Remembering a special friend

The Oklahoma United
Methodist Foundation re-
cently said goodbye to staff
member Jane Stewart. She
passed away on Sept. 25 af-
ter a long battle with cancer.
Jane worked in the Foun-
dation’s Tulsa office for
more than 12 years and most
recently worked out of a
satellite office at Bartlesville
Oak Park United Method-
ist Church. It is difficult to
articulate her value and sig-
nificance to the Foundation.
She worked closely with all
staff members, especially
planned-giving staff and do-
nors, and she will be greatly Jane Stewart
missed.
Because the Foundation staff
is few in number, everyone works together on
many projects. Jane was more like family than a
co-worker, sharing everything from her love of
theater and sports to her dedication and loyalty which inspired each of us. She was a very special
to the Foundation’s mission.
“Among Jane’s many
gifts were her incredible
organizational skills,” said
David Battles, executive vce
president for the Foundation.
“She scheduled all of my ap-
pointments each December,
which included 30 to 40
visits during a two- or three-
week period. She was so
efficient she even scheduled
breaks, something we both
laughed about later. She also
had a great sense of humor.”
Over the years, Jane got
to know many of our do-
nors in the Tulsa area on a
first-name basis. She de-
veloped close relationships
with many of them, and
they would often ask how she
was doing.
“Jane managed her illness much like her work
for the Foundation, with a truly gracious spirit
friend, and I already miss her smile,” said Battles.
An easy way to leave a legacy
We all desire significance—to lead gift to your church and lessen the bur-
happy and fulfilled lives surrounded den of taxes on your family and estate.
by family and friends. For many of us, A charitable bequest directs a gift to
there is a compelling need to make a be made through your will or trust to a
difference—to leave a lasting impact qualified charity, such as your church.
on the people most dear to us and the It allows you to support your church
world in which we live. after you are gone, ensuring ministry
The search for significance and for the next generation.
desire to plan for the future leads many A bequest to your church or min-
to ponder their legacy. What kind of istry can also help you save estate
legacy will you leave? taxes by providing your estate with a
A bequest is perhaps the easiest and charitable deduction for the value of
most tangible way to have a lasting the gift. With careful planning, your
impact on the people and organizations family can also avoid paying income
that mean the most to you. A bequest taxes on the assets they receive from
may also be an effective way to make a your estate.
Sample language for your attorney
I give and bequeath to The Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation,
Inc., an Oklahoma, not-for-profit, tax-exempt corporation, as a permanent
endowment, ____ percent of my gross estate, for the benefit of (your
United Methodist Church ) .

The Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation Inc., 4201 Classen Blvd., Oklahoma City 73118; www.okumf.org; 800-259-6863

'This is cutting-edge mission'

Photo provided by GBGM
Fuxia Wang of Oklahoma kneels as she is com-
missioned Oct. 12 as a U.S.-based Church and
Community Worker. At left, Bishop Bruce R.
Ough of West Ohio, president of the General
Board of Global Ministries, led the blessing of
missionaries at the ceremony in Connecticut.
Continued from page 1A
“We embraced her ministry right away,” said Daniel Denni-
son, director of that Wesley Foundation. “We had been wanting
to do more international ministry. She was a gift from God.
She had such a great spirit, full of joy and energy.”
Rev. Dennison continued, “You have to have trust to share
the Gospel. Trust levels can be built faster if you speak the
language and know the culture.”
He said Wang provides radical Christian hospitality in the
Chinese community, offering Christ in everyday ways.
She meets the international students at the airport. She helps
new arrivals, often limited in their English-language skills, to
navigate systems for phone service, banking, driver’s licenses,
and health services. Each Friday, she serves up a home-cooked
Chinese meal and leads Bible study.
Evangelism is at the center of this practical work.
“I brought 50 people to the Lord within three years after
I believed in Jesus,” Wang said, recalling her first years in
Oklahoma. “I invited people to the church and shared the
Word of God with them and prayed for them … I was called
a televangelist because I shared my faith over long-distance
telephone with my relatives and friends in China.”
Several years ago, Guy Ames learned Wang’s story of
transformation from Puong Lau, pastor of Edmond Chinese
International UMC, which is Wang’s church home. That con-
gregation began as a UM Bible study group at a time when
Chinese-language United Methodist communities existed only
on the nation’s coasts, Rev. Ames said.
Now Wang is reaching out to the Asian-American popula-
tion in the Norman-south Oklahoma City area. The demo-
graphic includes about 8,000 people, he said.
“Nobody except her could reach the people she’s reaching.
She’s a tremendous evangelist,” said the Ardmore District
superintendent who has long enthusiastically supported UM
missions. “Her infectious witness, joyful Christianity, and
Financial gifts for Wang can be designated to
Advance No. 3021191. To invite Wang to speak at
your church, contact Karen Distefano, Conference
Mission Secretary, 918-336-0351, kirie@aol.com.
background allow us to build bridges from Norman, Oklahoma,
that stretch around the world.
“Fuxia and Puong remind us that the world has literally
come to the Oklahoma plains,” Ames continued.
“This is cutting-edge mission and ministry,” said Kathleen
Masters, who heads the GBGM Church and Community Work-
ers program. “Fuxia Wang is proclaiming the Gospel in word
and deed to an expanding population.”
Crucial support for Wang’s move to missionary status came
from key Conference leaders. Financing was a concern.
Frankye Johnson, superintendent of the South Oklahoma
City District, described, “The Wesley Foundation at OU re-
ceives its funding from Apportionment dollars and generous
donors who give to that ministry, so there was no surplus of
funding for this position” when Wang was appointed in 2006.
Then the director at that time secured initial financing from
several sources.
“By the time Daniel Dennison was appointed as director,
the Chinese fellowship was bearing fruit, and Daniel had the
insight and initiative to begin finding sources of helping this
ministry stay alive,” Rev. Johnson explained.
Dennison gave the credit to God. “There is such a need for
her ministry here. I didn’t want to lose it,” he said. “I think
God put a holy discontent in my heart.”
GBGM and the Wesley Foundation are partnering in a
new mission model. Recognizing this ministry as a Church
and Community site with a resident missionary enlarges the
capacity of the work through the UM connectional system.
—Elliott Wright of the GBGM and Holly McCray contrib-
uted to this report.