Contact, an edition of
The United Methodist Reporter
Two Sections, Section A • 039000 • Volume 157, Number 41 • February 11, 2011
THE OKLAHOMA UNITED METHODIST
www.okumc.org
Apportionment support gains in 2011
By Holly McCray budget, compared to 94.17 percent in 2009.
What happens to a one-dollar bill after it In the Oklahoma Conference, the record
goes into the offering plate at your church? year for Apportionment giving was 2007,
Most of the money directly supports the with 97.36 percent.
work of your church. Of that $1, a total of 16 “Apportioned funds enable United Meth-
cents is forwarded as Apportionment giving, odists to do together what no church, district,
explained Treasurer Brian Bakeman. or conference could do alone,” declares a
In 2010, Oklahomans contributed denominational statement. The connectional
$15,272,755 to the Apportionment, Rev. strength of United Methodists is a distinctive
Bakeman reported on Jan. 26 to the Council characteristic of our Church.
on Finance & Administration (CF&A). Last year, 16 cents of each $1 supported
That amount is slightly higher than Ap- these ministries and much, much more:
• Camps for all ages
portionment receipts the previous year. The
• The Circle of Care for at-risk children and youths
money provided for 94.3 percent of the 2010
Ed Lusk, center, prepares to paint McSpadden Cabin's large meeting room at Camp Egan. Left, from top: tear-out is a first step for the cabin remodel; the re-
strooom addition; and the first campers to occupy the cabin after the 2010 project was completed. Right, the Camp Egan staff gathers outside the renovated
Sharum Museum Cabin. Dave Perrin, on steps, is retiring after more than 10 years as Egan's manager.
Building
By Holly McCray
Illness almost took his life at age 9. It did
distort his body, and Ed Lusk became “the
kid everybody picked on,” he said. Then he
for life
attended a church youth camp at age 13. And
everything changed.
The prognosis was truly grim for Lusk when
he developed nephritis, an inflammation of the
at camp
kidneys. Although he survived, the 9-year-old
could not walk for months. One eye turned in-
ward, normal body development was noticeably
impaired, and adolescent peers were cruel. “I
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n Young leaders at Fort Gibson, 5A
n Financial classes expand in state, 4A
• Health care for Oklahoma clergy
• Missionaries in Oklahoma and around the world
• Training for laity leadership
• Social justice work at all levels
• Education for clergy
• Native American churches
• Disaster response around the world
• New churches in Oklahoma
• Oklahoma City University
• Communication ministries, including this
newspaper, videos, and online resources
• Oklahoma’s bishop and district superintendents
• Outreach to college students
Rev. Bakeman reported Apportionment
giving reached 99 percent for the churches
in Clinton and Woodward Districts. South
was funny-looking,” Lusk said.
His opinion of himself was a poor one when
the teen arrived at Camp Egan in the summer of
1946. A week at camp cost $7.50, and someone
else covered his fee. Irving Smith, a pastor
newly returned from the mission field, was
featured speaker. The schedule included private
devotional time every morning.
Lusk chose a large rock in the creek for his
study spot. That week, on that rock, the seventh-
grader made the decision to give himself full-
time to Christ.
Oklahoma City District was recognized for
the biggest improvement in Apportionment
giving.
Of all Oklahoma churches, about four out
of five contributed fully to the Apportion-
ment. The Ministerial Support items were
not fully paid by 21 congregations.
Giving exceeded 100 percent to both
Cookson Hills Center and Neighborhood
Services Organization.
Total revenue in 2010, reported by Bake-
man, was $15,799, 050, from the Apportion-
ment, Advance specials, and other missional
giving.
Dates District Youth Camps
June 6-8 Ardmore District Sr. High
June 6-10 Clinton-Enid-Woodward Jr. High
June 6-10 Stillwater District
June 8-11 Ardmore District Jr. High
June 20-24 Bartlesville District
June 27-July 1 Muskogee District
June 27-July 1 Lawton District
July 18-22 North & South OKC Districts
July 18-22 Tulsa District
July 25-29 Clinton-Enid-Woodward Sr. High
July 25-29 McAlester District
Also offered each summer are specialty camps,
such as programs for the youngest elementary
students. Find information about all the camps
online at www.okumc.org/camps.
His spirit and his body were transformed.
“When I committed my life to Christ, my
eye straightened out, my body filled out, and I
grew 5-7 inches in that one year,” Lusk mar-
veled. “I got so interested in youth work and
church camp that I went home and began load-
ing hay to make money to go.”
He went on to attend three camps at Egan
each summer as a teen. In adulthood, he became
a benefactor for the campground precious to
him. Now Lusk Lodge will honor that support.
Continued on page 4A
Page 2A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact Feb. 11, 2011

CORR offers diverse events on March weekend Appointments

Save these dates: March 5-6 brings two
special programs by the Oklahoma Conference
Commission on Religion & Race (CORR).
Both a training event and a free multicultural
concert are scheduled for the CORR weekend.
Events take place at OKC-Quayle United Meth-
odist Church, 5001 N. Everest. Both clergy and
laity are encouraged to attend.
Class to battle addictions
Churches that want to start chemical de-
pendency ministries can sign up for “Back to
God (Good Orderly Decisions)” on March 5,
facilitated by the Addiction Ministries leader-
ship of the Conference.
The CORR-sponsored training will be from
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Quayle UMC Café. Partici-
pants can earn six Continuing Education Units.
Cost is $25 per person to attend the 1st
Chemical Dependency Leadership Competen-
cies Luncheon Series.
Call 405-424-2770 for more information.
Concert boosts campus ministries
At 4 p.m. March 6, the eighth Umoja-Unity
Praise Concert will begin.
Open to all, this free CORR program cel-
ebrates the multicultural diversity of United
Sharon Cochran to Prairie Chapel
Methodists. Music, mime, and poetry will be
performed. from Kremlin (Enid District), effective
UM campus ministries across the state will Jan. 15.
be highlighted, with performances by their Jim Harvey to Kremlin (Enid), ef-
students. fective Jan. 1.
CORR Chairman Glenn Harris explained Paul Babiak, new, to Garber/Hunter
that umoja is the Swahili word for unity. Ini- (Enid), effective Jan. 15.
tially these concerts, held on the first Sunday Robert Montgomery to Blackwell
of March, extended the national observance of (Enid) from Fairfax (Stillwater), effec-
Black History Month, which is February. Since tive Jan. 15.
the event expanded to encompass all cultures, Kristen Brown to GBGM Mission-
Harris said, it has generated more enthusiasm ary –Jerusalem from Blackwell, effective
as well as diversity in the audience. Jan. 15.

7 locations for crusade sponsored by Langston campus ministry

Beginning Feb. 20, a “progres-
sive revival” will move through
several Oklahoma churches, cul-
minating at the Wesley Foundation
at Langston University on Feb. 27.
Plans include a “Back Together
Again Celebration Ball” on Feb. 26
at Oklahoma City University.
The week-long evangelism cru-
sade is coordinated by the Wesley
Foundation’s board and students,
in honor of campus ministry di-
rector Cecelia Brooks, and also to
raise funds for the Wesley.
All events begin at 7 p.m.
n Feb. 20—OKC-Chapel Hill,
featuring the Quayle UMC Choir
and Rev. Brooks’ preaching.
n Feb. 21—Cushing UMC;
Dan Pulver, preaching; and the
Mount Bethel Baptist Choir.
n Feb. 22—Ponca City-St.
Paul’s UMC; Calvin Miller,
preaching; and the Stillwater-
Mount Zion Baptist Choir.
n Feb. 23—OKC-Quayle
UMC; Frankye Johnson, preaching;
and the Guthrie-First UMC Choir.
n Feb. 24—Guthrie-First UMC;
Ed Cook, preaching; and Crescent/
Mount Vernon UMC Choir.
n Feb. 25—Stillwater-Mount
Zion Baptist Church; Roger Pitt,
preaching; and the choirs of
Langston-New Hope Baptist and
Stillwater-Highland Park UMC.
n Feb. 26—Celebration ball
at OCU. Mistress of ceremonies
will be Langston University Presi-
dent Joanne Haysbert. For ticket
information, contact Lois Lyons,
405-466-9242.
n Feb. 27—The Wesley Foun-
dation in Langston; Robert Rose
and Guy Ames, preachers; and
the Langston University Choir.
The center’s baptistery will be
dedicated in memory of Travis
Chubbuck.
For details, contact Lyons.

Nothing but Nets scores support at OCU

On Jan. 20, the Oklahoma City
University community woke up to
icy streets and the announcement
that school was closed until noon.
However, that news didn’t deter
those in the Wesley Center and
OCU Athletics from their spirited
plans for that evening.
They were co-sponsoring a Jennifer
fund-raiser for Nothing But Nets Long
during the OCU Stars’ basketball rallies the
games with Oklahoma Baptist group for
University teams. the free-
Nothing But Nets is a joint throw
campaign between The United contest.
Methodist Church and the NBA to
supply mosquito nets to malaria-
prone areas in Africa.
The metro’s professional bas-
ketball team, the Oklahoma City
Thunder, donated prizes including organizations in a “celebrity” each went 4-of-5 on free-throws.
a pennant signed by the players free-throw shooting contest. Par- Students from the Wesley Cen-
and tickets to an upcoming game, ticipants were: Tessa Stutzman ter—the United Methodist campus OCU mascot Starsky wears a Nothing But Nets t-shirt while
to support the fund-raiser. The from Kappa Phi, Trey Witzel from ministry at OCU—staffed a table in students show their school spirit with the sign of a star.
Oklahoma United Methodist Foun- Delta Alpha Chi, Seth Williams the atrium, where they shared in-
dation contributed to the effort from Lambda Chi Alpha, Danny formation about Nothing But Nets those who mentioned Nothing event. It was a great night and
by donating $150—$10 for each Pham from Kappa Sigma, Jarred and received donations. Each $10 But Nets. an important way to connect our
three-point basket scored during Johnson from Phi Gamma Delta, donation netted a T-shirt for the With money still coming in, the students with mission beyond our
the games. Sara Catherine Johnson from Al- giver, and all of the money went sponsoring groups were confident walls,” said Rev. Jennifer Long,
During halftime of the men’s pha Phi, and Karen Aguilar from to the cause. of exceeding their goal of $2,000. OCU director of Religious Life.
game, the crowd cheered the Alpha Chi Omega. OCU Athletics donated $3 of “Even with the bad weather, we Lindi Jones, a sophomore, was
leaders from a number of student Karen and Seth tied for the win; each game ticket purchased by were thrilled with the fund-raising student leader for the event.

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 4.
Page 3A
Strength for the journey:
Ideas and thoughts from our bishop
If not us, who?
“The angel of God appeared to Gideon
and said to him, ‘The Lord is with you, O
mighty warrior.’ Gideon replied, ‘If God is
with us, why then has all this happened to
us? And where are all the miracles which our
fathers told us about?’ Then the Lord turned
to Gideon and said, ‘Go in this might of yours
… I’ll be with you.’ The Spirit of the Lord
took possession of Gideon.”
(Judges 6: 12, 13, 34)
I
By BiSHop roBErT HayES Jr.
t was James Weldon
Johnson, a gifted Af-
rican-American writer
of the 1920s, who best de-
scribed the futility of getting
upset with God. In his sermon
The Prodigal Son, he wrote:
“Young man, young man, your
arms are too short to box with
God!”
Someone should have told
that to Gideon, who was told
Bishop Hayes
that God had chosen him to
lead the nation of Israel back to God.
The angel of God said, “The Lord is with
you.” But Gideon responded, “I doubt it! If
the Lord is with us, then why has so much
trouble come to Israel? Where are all these
wonderful deeds our parents and grandpar-
ents told us about? Did God bring us out of
Egypt to forget us and forsake us?”
Strong words, from a man who had seen
much suffering.
When Gideon finished ranting, the angel
said, “This is precisely the reason I’ve come.
You have been chosen to be the person to
do something about it! You are hereby com-
missioned!”
Then, perhaps, Gideon got a sinking feel-
ing and wished he had kept his mouth shut.
He started making excuses: “Me? How could
I ever save Israel? My clan is the weakest in
Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s
house.”
That did not deter God. The 34th verse
says it all: “The Spirit of the Lord took pos-
session of Gideon.”
This Scripture speaks to us today because,
like Gideon, we question God’s whereabouts
when we look at events in the world, our
nation, our churches, and even our personal
lives.
Why not blame it all on God? Where are
you, God? Why do you allow evil to prosper
and good to suffer?
Miracles are not always found in burning
bushes, lion dens, and fiery furnaces. God’s
miraculous work is also found in lives like
yours and mine. Gideon’s story reveals how
God uses all of us to bring about change.
God has chosen you—yes, you—to be a
change agent, to make the world better. God
is always reaching out and commissioning
some Gideon to be the means of change.
“The Spirit of the Lord took possession of
Gideon.” This truth is exciting! If lives are
The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact Feb. 11, 2011
going to be transformed and churches reborn
and renewed, we must allow the Spirit of God
to take possession of us.
Friends of Children
Every person is possessed by some spirit,
serving some idea, contributing to some re- Fundraising Banquets
sult. The differences between people are in
what and whom we serve.
In an often-quoted passage, Australian
theologian F.W. Boreham brought up this
concept of God taking possession of some- March 31: Tulsa
Asbury UMC
one. He pointed to the year 1809. Napoleon
was on the march. It seemed everyone in the
world was thinking of war.
But in that same year, Bore-
ham noticed, God was at work
April 7: OKC
in a quiet and most unusual
way. Church of the Servant
Babies were being born
Featuring:
who grew to influence the
world far more than the battles
of Napoleon.
Charles Darwin, the natu-
ralist, was born in England.
Bishop Robert Hayes
Abraham Lincoln was born in
Kentucky; Frederick Chopin,
in Poland; and Felix Mendelssohn, in Ger-
Table Sponsorships Start at $200
many. William Gladstone, the great statesman
and prime minister of England, was born in
Liverpool that year, as well as Alfred Lloyd
Contact: 405.530.2078
Tennyson, the great poet and laureate, born
in a parsonage in Somersby.
The news of that year reported nothing
about them. All the world was concerned
with Napoleon. However, the babies born in
Epworth Villa and Quality Life Hospice
1809 included those who were possessed by
God to do God’s work.
Dedicated to Improving Quality of Life
So Boreham wrote, “When a wrong wants
righting, or a work wants doing, or a truth Through our new
wants preaching, or a continent wants open- partnership with Quality
ing, God sends a baby in the world to do it!” Life Hospice, Epworth
I understand! God chose to send a baby Villa is committed to
wrapped in swaddling clothes to change the expanding its ministry
world! Now I comprehend the words Jesus
beyond the borders of our
used when he began his ministry, as recorded
in Luke 4:18: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon
beautiful 40-acre campus.
me because He has anointed me to bring good Our professional, compas-
news to the poor; He has sent me to proclaim
sionate and understanding
release to the captives and recovery of sight
to the blind, to let the prisoner go free, and staff take pride in paying
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” close attention to the
This leads me to a question that I hope individual needs of each
lingers in you: hospice patient and their
Are you willing to allow the Spirit of the family members.
Lord to take possession of you, so that you
may receive a revelation of what God is call- Please contact us for additional information about our not-for-profit hospice,
ing you to do? serving the needs of those living in central Oklahoma. Volunteer opportunities
God already has gifted you for something available.
no one else can do. Is your life open and
available for God to put your gifts to use?
For more information about hospice
God needs you now for such a time as this!
care, or to schedule a consultation visit,
My fervent hope is that generations not
call 405.767.9033.
yet born will open a journal someday and 20th
A n nive r s a r y
read this truth: “In the year 2011, the Spirit Enhancing Lives So People Thrive
of the Lord took possession of the people Epworth Villa is a not-for-profit, accredited retirement community related to the
called United Methodists in Oklahoma, and Oklahoma Conference of the United Methodist Church.
they changed the world.” Quality Life Hospice is fully accredited by the Community Health Accreditation
I truly believe it can happen! If not us, Program, certified by Medicare, and licensed by the state of Oklahoma.
who?
Page 4A
Building for life at camp
Leslie and Ed Lusk
'We did it
because God
told us to do it'
Continued from page 1A
“God straightened my physical
body out,” said Lusk, now age 77.
“I thoroughly believe it was be-
cause the first thing in my life, from
age 13 on, has been the Church and
youth work. I give credit to Camp
Egan and United Methodist Camp-
ing for the ability to understand I
really was all right.”
He offered, “I’ll show you the
rock. It’s still there.”
As a youngster, Lusk attended
Muskogee-First UMC, where Jim
Egan was a leading adult member.
(In 1945, Egan’s donation had
established the Methodist camp-
ground.)
At 16, Lusk became worship
leader for the youth services at
Muskogee-First. At 17, he wrote
the Easter service for the congrega-
tion. He also embraced youth lead-
ership roles at other Church levels.
As a General Conference youth
delegate at age 18, he helped set
Churches host more classes to give people money skills
By KriSTiN VaN NorT
n They didn’t seem to be hav-
ing trouble financially. All the bills
got paid, but they didn’t really
know where their money went
and, by month’s end, they would
anxiously await the next paycheck.
n She heard about a budgeting
class from her aunt and a cousin,
but was not motivated to take it …
until the day she found out she was
going to be a mother. She wanted
a better life for her baby and knew
a class on budgeting would help
pave the way.
n Their budget was stretched
thin, barely enough money for gro-
ceries and bills, let alone anything
for the offering plate at church.
There was never enough at the
The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact
Ed and Leslie Lusk refurbished this Sharum Museum Cabin as well as led the major recon-
struction of McSpadden Cabin in Spring 2010 at Camp Egan.
denominational policies for youth
ministries. A confident 19-year-old
entered the U.S. Marine Corps.
Lusk’s career work has cen-
tered on construction—projects
from homes to hospitals to mas-
sive jobs such as the Lake Eufaula
dam—as well as the natural gas
industry. Steeped in those skills, he
has helped build ministries of the
Church—especially at Camp Egan.
Love Circle. Creekside. The
manager’s residence. Most re-
cently, McSpadden Cabin. The
latter is more than 60 years old,
Financial Peace University offered at 100+ locations
end of the month and, if anything
unexpected came up, they didn’t
know where to turn for the money
for that.
Each of these stories is real and
told by Financial Peace University
(FPU) graduates.
They found these classes
on personal financial manage-
ment offered at United Methodist
churches, and enrolled to learn
more about managing their money.
In 2010, more than 100 FPU
classes were offered in UM
churches across Oklahoma.
“Each class is full of families
and individuals finding hope that
financial freedom is really pos-
and “it needed the most love,” said
Camp Egan’s manager, Dave Per-
rin. “We needed to have a facility
where people would want to stay.”
Lusk steered a total renova-
tion of the cabin during 13 intense
weeks last spring. “We finished at
3 a.m. on the first Monday of the
(summer) camping season. Camp-
ers were coming in 12 hours later,”
Perrin said.
The building that apparently
first served as a mule barn now
includes restrooms with showers,
a meeting room to easily accom-
modate more than 100 people,
sible,” said Oklahoma United
Methodist Foundation President
Bill Junk.
“I received a card this week
from a recent graduate of Financial
Peace University. She said she
now feels empowered with her
new financial education and was
able to give up a couple of her side
jobs since she now has her finances
under control.”
He continued, “I’ve also seen
this as one of the best things mar-
ried couples can do to strengthen
their relationships. FPU is certainly
making an impact in the lives of
our church members. There is
no doubt this is helping build the
kitchenette, and 15 bunk beds,
Perrin described. Sewer, water, and
electrical systems were replaced.
Also new are wood laminate floors,
indirect lighting, and a central air
system. Some 150 gallons of paint
were used.
The cabin’s massive support
beams had sunken 2 ½ inches.
After the jack work, additional
wood beams, secured with 360 lag
bolts, reinforced the clean-span,
rough-sawn oak trusses, which are
40 feet long.
“It’s good for another 25-30
years,” Lusk said. “It was worn
Kingdom of God and the future of
our Church.”
The Foundation began encour-
aging churches to offer the classes
on personal money matters several
years ago, at the request of laity
leaders and pastors who saw the
need in their congregations.
And last year, the Foundation
went a step further. The EQUIP
program was developed, to en-
hance and emphasize FPU’s value
for churches’ members and com-
munities. This program combines
the 13 weeks of FPU classes with
a five-week sermon series, Sunday
school curriculum, and prayer and
promotion teams.
Feb. 11, 2011
out. The Holy Spirit impressed
me to fix it.”
Concurrent with the McSpad-
den project, Leslie Lusk began
updating the Sharum Cabin, previ-
ously converted by her into a small
museum at Camp Egan. Ed’s wife
has an avid interest in antiques and
experience in decorating.
That cabin was originally the
Sharum family home in the late
1800s, Perrin said, and then a fish-
ing camp. Thanks to Leslie Lusk’s
efforts, the rooms reflect life in
that era. A new porch is part of the
recent refurbishing.
Perrin said some church
groups, individual volunteers,
and paid professionals joined the
Lusks in the recent work. Married
51 years, the couple worshipped at
Wagoner-First from 1972 to 2006,
when they moved to Tulsa. They
now are members at Tulsa-Asbury
UMC.
After retiring, “I decided to put
all my effort into my local church
except for specialized things I
wanted to do,” Ed Lusk said.
Camps ministry leaders are
glad Egan is one of those. The
board voted to rename McSpad-
den Cabin to recognize the Lusks’
many contributions.
“We didn’t do it for that,” Lusk
said. “We did it because God told
us to do it. It’s all God’s money;
everything we own is His.”
Ceremony Feb. 19
The renovated cabin will of-
ficially be renamed Lusk Lodge in
a public ceremony, set for 11 a.m.
Feb. 19 at Camp Egan, to honor
the contributions to the camp made
over the years by Ed and Leslie
Lusk.
About 10 churches participated
in EQUIP last year. And among
the numerous other churches of-
fering FPU, several did so for the
first time.
Financial Peace University
teaches basic principles of spend-
ing, saving, and giving, as well as
how to make major purchases, buy
different types of insurance, make
investments, and give generously.
Participants in the classes must
purchase a kit, which includes a
workbook for the weekly lessons,
audio CDs of the lessons, plus
other resources that help reinforce
the key ideas.
For more information, contact
the Foundation, 800-259-6363,
www.okumf.org.
Feb. 11, 2011
Young leaders
bring vitality
to Fort Gibson
By Linda Harker
Muskogee district Superintendent
One of the emphases of our Oklahoma
Conference has been the intentional re-
cruiting of younger persons for ministry—
both lay and clergy alike. Believing in the
priesthood of all, as part of our Strategic
Plan, we’ve committed to recruit, assess,
equip, and send persons into ministry.
I’ve become aware of the fruits of that
plan for laity at First UMC in Fort Gibson.
As part of the recent Church Confer-
ence there, leaders of work areas enthusi-
astically shared “ministry reports” about
what God had been doing and where they
felt God might be leading in the future.
These reports were given by a much
younger generation of leaders, who had
been mentored by the previous genera-
tion. We became aware that 72 percent of
the chairpersons are under the age of 40!
Calculating all chairpersons and committee
members, Pastor Barry Collins said that 48
percent of those are under the age of 40!
Fort Gibson is a strong, vital congrega-
tion. What touches my heart most is the
partnership that exists between the genera-
tions—both understanding and respect.
These are people who are excited for the
shift in leadership and who understand the
importance on passing on the legacy of
leadership to others. It’s a great witness to
the Body of Christ.
Rev. Collins said, “It’s an exciting
privilege to lead a church with so many
young adults excited to lead and willing to
step forward to take on great responsibility
in the church body. The older adults in our
congregation do a fine job of mentoring
the younger generation and encouraging
them in the fact that they are qualified and
do possess the God-given skills to lead a
committee.”
We asked the leaders, the younger and
the not-so-young, to write about their expe-
rience. Portions are shared here.
This page continues a series focusing on the Oklahoma Conference Strategic Plan. www.okumc.org/strategicplan
There are two
reasons I
think being a leader in the Church
is important. The first: We are all
called to serve. Being a servant is
an innate part of being a leader. If
leading with the right goal in
mind—to share and
glorify God’s love—
it is impossible not to
also be a servant.
The second reason:
to be an example for
my child. I believe both
that the best sermon is
our actions and that chil-
dren learn what they live.
For a working mother,
time (not money) is the most
precious commodity. Giving
up my time demonstrates to
my child that I truly believe
in the importance of serving.
My involvement in the Church opens more opportunities for my
child to be involved as well.
There are other benefits, such as fellowship and a sense of pur-
pose. Knowing others who are trying to get to the same place helps
to clarify the way. —Lori Alred
What does it mean to me to be a young leader in our
church? I believe most people commit to the
Lord when they are adults because there is something missing in
their lives. This is the main reason in my situation.
My wife, Nicole, and I had been talking about going to church
for several years before we made the leap of faith. Once we began
our journey with Christ, part of His plan was to move Nicole and
me to Oklahoma and begin to be involved with Him.
I also believe everyone has been given gifts. With leadership
comes responsibility, which is what it means to me as a young per-
son involved in the church. This responsibility has allowed me to
grow as a Christian, because it helped me to get involved in many
opportunities within the church.
Young leaders are important for the survival of the church. Our
church has many young members that have stepped up and done
fantastic things. We are building a solid foundation for our kids to
have a place to learn just as we have.
—Jeremy Hodge
As a young leader in my church, it is wonderful know-
ing I have the support and help from the more mature
generation. If I ever have any questions or concerns, I know they
are there to help with advice and encouragement. Our church fam-
ily is wonderful.
Through having young leadership, it shows our church is not
afraid to make changes and new ideas are welcome. It’s astonish-
ing to know the older generation has enough trust in the younger
leaders to allow us to lead. It truly shows the Body of Christ at
work when we can all function together and make progress in our
common goals of serving others and helping others to come to
know Christ. —Jennifer Parker
How proud and blessed I am to have the opportunity
to serve God in this manner. To be called and
allowed to serve by the older generation is a great honor.
It does not come without pressure and stress, though. I am 36,
my wife is 31, and we are both employed full-time as federal law
enforcement officers. We have a newborn daughter and a 2-year-
old son. It is sometimes difficult to find time to worship, let alone
lead in some area.
I was given the opportunity to lead the United Methodist Men’s
group. I never knew the reward I would be given back from this
commitment. I will never be able to put a price on how much my
Page 5A
spiritual maturity has grown.
Our group has approximately 16 members, ranges in age from
22 to 80, and is asked to complete some large tasks in the church.
We have accomplished tasks from cooking and serving the congre-
gation to repairing the parking lot and roof over the nursery.
The formation of our group is a huge asset to the church. I do
have fears if the older generation does not continue to assist. You
have to be careful not to create burnout for the younger members
who take on large amounts of responsibility at home and at church.
The perfect situation would have the young and old working to-
gether, hand in hand, to further God’s Kingdom.
—Jeff Skaggs
Why become a leader at our church? To be honest,
it was my kids. Everything changed for me the
day my son was born and, now, my daughter. I couldn’t sit on the
bench any more.
I became a children’s director/teacher because my son and
daughter needed one. There are many roles to fill at our church. We
are small; it requires almost everyone to step up. We needed a chil-
dren’s director, so why not me? I didn’t want to teach my children
that when you are called to run, you can choose to stand still.
To be a leader, one has to be willing to follow through with
commitments, and hold others accountable. I am familiar with this
requirement as a mother. I want to teach my children to be leaders,
so I must be one myself.
Having so many young leaders in our church is awesome. The
young leadership will show my children that they can do it, too, if
only they try. There is no greater example to my children than for
them to see MANY other young adults are leading them.
I appreciate the acceptance of young leaders in our church. My
children will not believe there is some age requirement that holds
them back from leadership roles they wish to seek, if they prepare
themselves adequately.
I want my children to know that God calls the small and equips
them for big things. —Erika Skaggs
I believe one of the strengths of our congregation is the ac-
ceptance of the younger generation by the older as peers
in our faith community. This gives the sense of inclusion and, in
return, the desire to take on responsibilities in leadership roles.
Having a voice that is heard by the people you look up to gives the
feeling of value and mutual respect sought by us all.
Not accepting young adults’ views and ideas would greatly
reduce growth in our church body. And when the pillars of the
church pass away, there would not be anyone capable of bearing
responsibility—only followers without the knowledge or experi-
ence necessary to lead.
The elder generation should not step completely away from
responsibility, but should continue giving gentle, caring advice and
guidance. Their place at this point is perhaps most important of all:
as heroes of the faith, that we as young men and women should
seek to emulate to teach through love and kindness that Christ is
alive in the world, especially in our church!
—Neil Boatright
I have been in the practice of surgery in Muskogee since
1982. During those years I have dedicated a significant
amount of time in working with the American Medical Associa-
tion, American College of Surgeons, and Oklahoma State Medical
Association.
Professional organizations are slowly dying because they all
need exactly what we have at First UMC! That is: young people
in leadership positions. This is crucial to the long-term survival of
any organization.
Yes, we have several elders in our church who share their faith
journeys on a regular basis, but it is these young leaders making
our church grow. I am constantly amazed just to keep quiet and
watch these young people make decisions.
Our church is such a vibrant church, with all ages worshipping
at Fort Gibson First. It is amazing what God can and will do if we
just let Him. —Jay Gregory
Page 6A
Building expands ministry at Duncan 1st
By HoLLy McCray
A musical celebration of Jesus’ birth also
heralded new ministry possibilities at Duncan-
First UMC, due to completion of a $3.5 million
building project.
On Dec. 12, “Miracle Sunday,” the re-
furbished sanctuary was reopened for Sun-
day morning worship. The offering totaled
$138,191, reported Dwight Fulton, chair of the
Finance Committee.
Tours of the entire building that afternoon
preceded a cantata, “Night of the Father’s
Love,” performed for the public by the church’s
Chancel Choir and an instrumental ensemble.
Senior Pastor Phil Ware valued volunteer
labor at $100,000 for the building project.
“The youth really helped here,” he empha-
sized. “They did a lot.” Teens were smiling
hugely as they greeted tour guests in their large
new activity space, extending
one educational wing of the
building. The previous week-
end, the youths had assisted 40
children in nine local families
through their Toy Shop Project.
Amy and Russell Wopsle are
the youth ministry directors.
First step for the extensive
project was construction of a
new activity center. It can seat
up to 350 for a banquet, fea-
tures a stage and basketball court, and has restrooms with showers.
United Methodist Women looked forward to serving 2,000 meals
through the center during their annual Chicken Noodle Dinner
fund-raiser on Feb. 8.
The church kitchen was upgraded and expanded. The chapel
underwent a total remodeling, and the former activity center was
Briefly
‘Five Practices’ author will teach in Norman
The author of the highly acclaimed “Five Practices of Fruitful
Congregations”—Bishop Robert Schnase of the Missouri Confer-
ence—will lead a workshop March 5 in Norman.
McFarlin UMC is hosting Bishop Schnase’s presentations,
and inviting clergy and laity from other churches to attend. The
program will be held from 9 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. at the Norman
church, 419 S. University Blvd., and includes lunch.
“What Does a Vibrant, Fruitful Congregation Look Like?”
Three sessions will respond to this workshop title.
n Session One examines the five practices: radical hospitality,
passionate worship, intentional faith development, risk-taking
mission and service, and extravagant generosity.
n Session Two: how our churches work, congregational
practices, and systems for ministry.
n Session Three: personal practices and roles in ministry.
Early registration is $15. After Feb. 18, fee is $20. Sign up
online at: www.mcfarlinumc.org/featureevents.
Quayle choir marks special month
The Mass Choir of OKC-Quayle UMC will present a “Musical
of Spirituals” at 4 p.m. Feb. 13.
The free concert will celebrate Black History Month at the
church, 5001 N. Everest Ave. The program is under the direction
of Quayle’s minister of music, Jessie Davis-Wesley, along with
Jacqueline Devereaux. The public is invited.
Wedding
Rev. Scott Heusel and Buffi Rene White married on Dec. 25,
2010. Rev. Heusel is pastor at Aline and Cleo Springs churches,
Enid District.
The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact
Above, youth director Amy Wosple is at center front.
Stainless steel gleams in the kitchen at Duncan-First;
from right are Betty Davis, Myrna Ware, and Devonna
Thompson.
reconfigured as multiple ministry rooms. Outdoor green space is
intentional between the church’s classroom wings.
The new “Holy Word Theatre” includes a popcorn machine.
Creatively painted scenes cover walls in the children’s areas.
Church member Sherry Gossett chaired the interior design com-
mittee.
David Dowell, a leader on the building committee, pointed out
highlights of the sanctuary work. Among them: additional light-
ing, sound system upgrades, multimedia screens, and redesigned
altar area and choir seating.
(View more photos on the Facebook Fan Page “Oklahoma
United Methodist Communications.”)
Youth input wanted for addiction ministries
Youths ages 13-17, and youth leaders, are asked to take part in
focus groups for Had Enough, a United Methodist youth move-
ment that responds to drug and alcohol abuse.
The groups will use Skype technology to communicate in
several Web meetings. Participants will voice their opinions
about the Church, drugs, and alcohol, as well as review resource
materials. They will help shape the Church’s ministries with
youths nationally.
This is an important leadership opportunity for young United
Methodists, said Annette Harper, director of Addiction Ministries
for the Oklahoma Conference.
Had Enough is an initiative of the denomination’s Special
Program on Substance Abuse and Related Violence (SPSARV).
March 7 is the application deadline for those interested. Find
application forms and more information on http://umspsarv.org/.
Completed forms should be e-mailed to Juliana Mecera, Had
Enough coordinator, jmecera@gbgm-umc.org.
Harper also announced some grant funds for addiction min-
istries are offered through SPSARV.
Jurisdictional office moves
The Oklahoma City office has been relocated for the South
Central Jurisdiction’s executive director. David Severe can now be
contacted at 3160 W. Britton Rd., Suite F. The e-mail address is:
scjdirector@okumf.org. In July 2012, the eight-state Jurisdiction-
al Conference will be held at the Cox Center in Oklahoma City.
Birth
Patrick Xavier Tate was born Jan. 31, 2011. He is the son of
Kinsie and Rev. Kris Tate, associate pastor at Edmond-Acts 2.
Feb. 11, 2011
In memoriam
richard “dick” Gibbens
Rev. Dr. Richard E. Gibbens, 85, of Tulsa died
Jan. 16, 2011. Service was Jan. 24 at Tulsa-Boston
Avenue UMC.
“Dick” was born Oct. 11, 1925. He completed
a master’s at Garrett Evangelical Seminary, North-
western University, Chicago, and was awarded an
honorary doctorate from Oklahoma City University.
During his last year in seminary, he served a
Chicago church where he met his wife, Jeannine.
His first pastorate in Oklahoma was as an as-
sociate at OKC-Wesley, in 1948. He also served
Blanchard, OKC-Village, Wewoka, Edmond, Elk
City, McAlester-Grand Avenue, Duncan-First,
OKC-Nichols Hills, Ponca City-First, and Musk-
ogee-First churches. He then served as Lawton
District superintendent and director of the Circle
of Care. He retired in 1992.
The Gibbenses also were committed to family
ministry and led Marriage Enrichment programs.
Survivors include his wife; two daughters, Rev.
Twila Gibbens, who is pastor of Tulsa-St. Paul’s
UMC, and Kathy Laptad of Tulsa; son Rick Gibbens
of Eufaula; and eight grandchildren.
“Becky” darrah
Carolina “Becky” Beckloff Darrah, 81, of Tulsa
died Jan. 20, 2011. She was the wife of Rev. Dwight
Darrah, retired elder.
Memorial service was Jan. 24 at Tulsa-Boston
Avenue UMC.
Becky was born March 14, 1929, in Okeene.
She held a bachelor’s in Christian Education from
Oklahoma City University, where she met Dwight.
The couple married on Aug. 15, 1951, in Okeene.
A homemaker, Becky participated in United
Methodist Women and PEO, and had traveled in-
ternationally. Rev. Darrah retired in 1992.
Survivors include Rev. Darrah; two sons, David,
of Lake Jackson, Texas, and Mark, of Tulsa; daugh-
ter Linda Reynolds of Tulsa; and two grandsons.
ardeth armstrong
Ardeth F. Yeargan Armstrong, 93, of Yukon died
Nov. 28, 2010. She was the widow of Rev. Patrick
W. Armstrong, who died in 1999.
Service was Dec. 3 at OKC-St. Luke’s UMC.
Ardeth was born Sept. 12, 1917, in Dallas, Texas.
She and Rev. Armstrong were married 62 years.
She was a Certified Professional Secretary,
working for Kerr-McGee Corp. for many years.
Survivors include daughters Susan Witt and
Carolyn Taylor and two grandchildren.
Margaret duncan
Margaret Louise Sherk Duncan, 86, of Nashville,
Tenn., died Dec. 13, 2010. A laywoman, she was a
Methodist medical missionary in the 1950s and ’60s.
Memorial service was Dec. 23 at Eastland Fu-
neral Home Chapel, Nashville.
She was born in 1924, and she graduated from
John Hopkins School of Nursing, the University of
Minnesota, and OU.
Margaret was a public health nurse. In 1954,
she was commissioned for missionary service by
Bishop Angie Smith of the Oklahoma Conference,
and she ministered in Belgium, South Africa, and the
Democratic Republic of the Congo. She also worked
for the Oklahoma City/County Health Department.
She was a former member of OKC-Penn Avenue
UMC.
Survivors include sons Dan, Frank, Bruce, and
Douglas Duncan.
 Page 7A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact Feb. 11, 2011

Project Noel also blesses those who give Opportunities

By Penny HaMMondS
The United Methodist Church in
Fletcher applied for Project Noel at
the end of November.
With the blessing of Pastor Lory
Fahle, four of us had brainstormed
and had ideas of opening a store
where people who could not afford
Christmas gifts could “shop” for free
gift items for their children.
Not knowing what things would
be received through Project Noel,
we decided to go to the pick-up site
in Oklahoma City on the first day it
was open, Dec. 13.
That day, we made the decision
we could open a store. We were able
to get many books, hair supplies,
shoes, body wash, scrapbook sup-
plies, and even gift items for parents.
We enlisted the help of our con-
gregation and posted on Facebook
that we needed donations of toys.
One church member enlisted his
co-workers at the Oklahoma State
Bureau of Investigations to help with
toy donations, too.
Within two days, we were able to
open our store (on Dec. 15).
We live in a small town, popula-
tion 1,200, so we quickly got names
Youth Director Penny Hammonds, right, helps Miran-
da Hathaway and Dusty McDonald pick out gifts for
their child in the Fletcher UMC Christmas Store.
of those in need. We expected to be
open three nights, and we called and
scheduled appointments for parents
to come shop. A few walk-ins pa-
tiently waited their turns.
We had a room where children
could wrap gifts for their parents.
Parents were given the option to
wrap at the store or take unwrapped
items home.
In the end, 114 children were
served through our store. We were
open seven nights, and even deliv-
Pianist: OKC-Clark Me-
morial, 5808 N.W. 23rd, La-
A Project Noel thank you marla Cook, 405-641-5524,
Project Noel 2010 “went wonderfully,” pastorcook@sbcglobal.net.
according to Amanda Lockwood, who director of discipleship/
chairs the Commission on the Rural/Small- Pastoral assistant: Part-
Membership Church. About 100 churches time. OKC-New Hope, JD
participated in the statewide Christmas gift Ward, pastor@newhopeokc.
ministry. org, 405-721-5015.
In Oklahoma City, for example, May- Choir director: Part-
fair Heights UMC distributed gifts through time. Norman-Goodrich,
partnerships with two hospitals, apart- jimshepherd1@cox.net.
ment complexes, Putnam City schools, administrative assis-
and other organizations, according to the tant: Part-time. Canyon
church newsletter. Camp in Hinton. For appli-
Rev. Lockwood extended special thanks cation, 405-542-6967.
to the Fabriclean and Hobby Lobby com- youth director: Part-
panies for their support. time. Norman-St. Stephen’s,
ststephensumc@coxinet.net.
yo u t h M i n i s t e r :
ered gifts on Christmas Eve to a fam- wage and received no child support; Part-time. Jet UMC, P.O.
ily unable to reach the store because a friend caring for a teen whose mom Box 218, Jet, OK 73749,
their vehicle had broken down. was hospitalized couldn’t afford jetprairievalleyumc@yahoo.
People told us their stories, gifts for the teen. Everyone was very com.
though we didn’t ask. One family grateful for what they received. Sim- administrative assis-
had been going to skip Christmas ple hair items brought one woman to tant/Communications Co-
because they had no money for gifts tears; she had four daughters. ordinator: Part-time. Staff
and no tree. (We were able to get We knew a lot of the people, but Parish Relations Committee,
them a tree also). One man couldn’t we also got hugs and thanks from OKC-First, 405-239-6493,
afford gifts for his daughter because strangers. This experience has been sprc@firstchurchokc.com.
he had undergone an amputation so rewarding for all of us involved. Pulpit: Free for pick up.
procedure and was out of work. We are making plans for our Project OKC-St. Mark’s, 405-789-
A single mom earned minimum- Noel Christmas Store 2011. 9033.

1000
Will You Join the Growing Ranks of the

Dear Friends of Circle of Care:

Anonymous
Donald & Cheryl Baker
Don & Lynn Batson
David & Laura Beal
Clara Brown
Mary Wheeler & Spencer Brown
Mary Butler
Dr. Ralph & Midge Coffman
Lloyd Cole
Dr. John & Jamie Crooch
G. Michael Crooch
Bobby & Shirley Darnell
Gregory & Mary Ann Edwards
Robert & Prudy Gorrell
To make your pledge today, please call 405-530-2078
or visit our website at:
Rev. Linda & Ralph Harker
Bishop Robert & Dee Hayes
Jenny & Jono Helmerich
Robert & Ann Ivester
Keith & Patricia Kennedy
Greg & Anita LaPat
Dwight Maulding
Robert & Doris McKown
Billy & Lora Meade
Christy & Mike Mordy
David & Laura Morrison
Lenert & Bobbie Pfeiler
John & Helen Riley
Gary & Sharon Roth
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?
It is such a visual reminder to me of the importance of children in the eyes of
Christ. Let the children come to me and do not hinder them, Jesus says. And He
Shannon Nakvinda Self & Mike Self reminds us that whoever welcomes children in His name, welcomes Him.
Martha & Bill Smith Friends, since 1917, the Oklahoma United Methodist Circle of Care has provided
Rev. Craig Stinson & Dr. Krista Jones help, healing, and hope to at-risk children, youth, and families across our state. Circle
of Care is the United Methodist Boys Ranch and the United Methodist Children’s
Ken & June Tucker Home, providing residential programs for teenagers. It is the David O. Beal Indepen-
J.M. & Patricia Vanderwiele Jr. dent Living Program, providing shelter and support for high school and college-aged
youth making the transition into adulthood. It is the Holsinger Home for Children, a
Lissa & Bill Wright licensed foster home for large sibling groups. It is Pearl’s Hope, a transitional program
Barbara & Donald Wright for homeless women and their children at the Frances E. Willard Home in Tulsa. It is
Circle of Care Staff: Child SHARE, recruiting and supporting foster families statewide.
In my role as Miss America so many years ago and my career as a broadcast
*OKC/Communications/ journalist, I’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand the plight of too many children
Pearl’s Hope without a future. I know that Circle of Care is making a difference.
*UM Boys Ranch Today, we are embarking on a new initiative to ensure that all these programs are
able to continue, and expand to meet the growing needs. It is called Project 1000.
*UM Children’s Home We are seeking to recruit 1000 new donors who will each pledge $1,000 per year for
*Independent Living three years.
Project 1000 is an ambitious campaign that will allow Circle of Care to look ahead:
*Child SHARE How many more Child SHARE foster families can be lifted up? How many more
youths can be served at the Boys Ranch, the Children’s Home, the Independent
Living Program? How many more families can be helped through Pearl’s Hope? How
many more lives can be forever changed?
Look at it this way: For only $19.23 per week, you can invest in the future. You
can help a child, a family. You can become one of the 1000. Won’t you join us?

http://www.circleofcare.org/1000.html In His name,

Jane Jayroe Gamble

Page 8A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact Feb. 11, 2011

Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation insights

Score on April 8
with the Thunder
Don’t forget to purchase your OKC Mark your calendar for the
Thunder Nothing But Nets tickets! Foundation’s Stewardship Focus
The Foundation is partnering with Day on Aug. 26 in Oklahoma City.
the Oklahoma City Thunder basketball The day-long seminar will feature
team to bring the special benefit game Clif Christopher, author of “Not
on April 8. Your Parent’s Offering Plate” and,
As the OKC Thunder players take on most recently, “Whose Offering
the Denver Nuggets, Oklahoma United Plate Is It?”
Methodists will take on the deadly disease Dr. Christopher is an ordained
malaria. When tickets for the April game elder in The United Methodist
are purchased through the Foundation, a Church and founder of the Hori-
portion of the price will go to Nothing zons Stewardship Co. As a pas-
But Nets. Tickets range from $10 to $86 tor, he has led numerous major
and can be purchased by calling Barbara building and capital campaigns
at the Foundation, 405-609-3103. at churches. Since founding Ho-
The game is an opportunity for church rizons, he has led consultations
youth groups, Sunday school classes, in more than 400 churches, on all
UMMen, UMW, and other groups to phases of building, finance, and
have a fun night out and support a worthy church growth.
cause. Christopher is one of the lead-
Nothing But Nets raises money to ing stewardship consultants and
distribute insecticide-treated bed nets speakers in the country, and the
to help prevent mosquito-borne malaria Foundation is excited to have him
in Africa. Nothing but Nets is supported as a part of this seminar.
by many organizations, including The Watch for more information
United Methodist Church and the NBA.
Only a limited number of tickets is Aug. 26 with Clif Christopher soon about Stewardship Focus
Day, including registration infor-
available, so call soon to order yours! mation and pricing.

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

Coordinated by Cameron Campus Ministry in Lawton

Diverse tasks unite people on King holiday

In Lawton, mission projects and more marked Mar-
tin Luther King Jr. Day on Jan. 17, through efforts by
Cameron Campus Ministry/Lawton Wesley Foundation.
Revs. Montie and Galeda Jones are directors of the
campus ministry at Cameron University. Montie said
the three-part program on that national holiday sought
to engage the university community in volunteer service
during “a day on” instead of “a day off.”
Photos by Jeff Dixon A total of 367 volunteers worked on 11 projects for
of The Lawton Constitution
community agencies during the Day of Service segment
that morning.
One group of 25 went to Lawton’s Redemption Church
site. The students, Wesley board members, and commu-
nity members cleaned three vans, cleaned and repaired all
the windows in the building, completed plumbing repairs, Clockwise from lower
cleaned pew cushions and oiled the woodwork—and left, volunteers work at
closed out their work with a gospel-fest in the sanctuary. UM Redemption Church,
Back at the university, an afternoon panel discussion the Boys and Girls Club,
and evening banquet were open to the public. Keynote Salvation Army Thrift
speaker was national TV commentator Marc Lamont
Store, and Lawton Food
Hill, who is a Columbia University professor and author Bank.
of “Beats, Rhymes, and Classroom Life.”