Contact, an edition of

The United Methodist Reporter

Two Sections, Section A • 039000 • Volume 157, Number 10 • July 9, 2010

THE OKLAHOMA UNITED METHODIST

n Irish church welcomes couple, 5A

www.okumc.org n Jones completes building project, 6A

Local Pastors Licensing School: Class of 2010

In mid-June, 33 people attended this two-week training course.

Oklahoma City University annually hosts the school. Sessions range from how to
conduct weddings and funerals, to financial information, to Church history
and polity. Participants must attend the full course to receive the license to preach;
some United Methodists, already certified, attend specialized training segments
offered during the school. Above are, from left: front row, dean John Breon,
Chris Stinnett, Laurie Long, Scott Ware, and Richard McIlney; second row,
Becky Pierson, assistant dean Kay Buchanan, Caroline Lovett, Susan Rice,
Ron Luka, and Wanda Littrell; third row, Jonathan Bates, Arron Grantz,
Callestro Vasquez Jr., Tiffany D’Amours, and Sharon Cochran; and back row,
Dean Taylor, Clark Struebing Sr., Thomas Trautlein, Phil Beatty, and David Gordon.

Photo by Carol Baker

A moment for memories

Mike and Lindsay Murray, with their sons Nathan and Waylon,
watch June 14 as the 1909 sanctuary building is razed
at Poteau-First UMC. That day, memories mingled with visions
of the future. The Murrays had not been active in a church From left are: top row, Rusty Husted, Chris Symes, Ralph Wangler, William Pasieczny,
before joining Poteau-First in recent years; they have given their and dean John Breon; middle row, Keith McArtor, Aaron Tiger, Richard Norman,
support to the new sanctuary project. See story, page 6A. Jim Stilwell, and Paul Staat; and lower row, assistant dean Kay Buchanan, Yvonne
Buchanan, Erica Thomas, Madlyn Ruch, Nancy McCullough, and April Coates.

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 July 9, 2010

Church relocation seminar set Aug. 26 Calendar

Piedmont to host ence Council (ACC). will be undergoing major renovations or
n St. Yootz Day
Among topics to be addressed that day additions,” said Sam Powers, an ACC co-
presentations by experts by various experts: demographics, budget chairman and pastor at Piedmont. Aug. 14
Is your church considering relocating? and debt, capital campaign, Book of Disci- For more information, contact Rev. Frontier City amusement park,
Does your church plan major renovations? pline requirements, psychology of the pas- Powers, sam@piedmontumc.org, 405- Oklahoma City
Perhaps a building addition? tor, and psychology of the congregation. A 373-2298. www.okumcministries.org/youth
On Aug. 26, “A Day of Church Reloca- builder and architect will speak to “What
Registration, $10, includes lunch
tion” will be offered at Piedmont-First for would I want my pastor to know before n Orders Meeting
and handouts. Sign up by Aug. 10.
pastors of congregations pondering such starting this process?” Aug. 17
Mail checks for “Day of Church
changes. “This event is designed for pastors OKC-St. Luke’s
Relocation” to Piedmont First United
This event is sponsored by Congrega- of congregations seeking to relocate their
Methodist Church, P.O. Box 237,
tional Development and the Discipleship churches to a new facility. It also will be
Piedmont OK 73078. n Safe Sanctuaries Training
Ministries Team of the Annual Confer- helpful for those pastors whose churches
Sept. 11
United Methodist Ministry Center,
Videos from Annual Conference are online Oklahoma City
No registration fee
You can view on- Among the videos available are: Cookson Hills Center,
line and download
www.ourchurchvideos.com/okumc
CJAMM (Criminal Justice & Mercy Ministries), Addiction Min- abrowning@okumc.org,
videos of presenters istries, Lydia Patterson Institute, Campus Ministries, Communica- 405-530-2199
at the 2010 Annual tions, and Imagine No Malaria.
Conference. Go to www.okumc.org and click “OKVideo” to link to the n Commission on
The new OKVideo website. Religion and Race
tool enables you to Your church can upload videos, too, for posting on the OKVideo Leadership Training Retreat
access these videos. site. Did you film volunteers at a mission service project? Gather Sept. 10-11
They are offered as for a building dedication? Nyla Wallin, video coordinator for Com- Canyon Camp
free resources for education and inspiration to your congregation, munications, welcomes your submissions. Guidelines are included
through the Conference Department of Communications. on the OKVideo site.

2010 Bishop’s Scholars announced

Each year, Oklahoma City University presents
the Bishop’s Scholar Award to deserving new high
school graduates as a part of its effort to iden-
tify and support academically advanced United
Methodist young people who are committed to
careers in Christian service to the Church. We
are very proud to announce the Bishop’s Scholars
for 2010.
Molly Been
From the age of 14, Molly Kate Been has ac-
knowledged the call of God upon her to full-time
ministry. This comes as no surprise to those who
know her well.
Her family has been active in Pocola-First
UMC for generations. She has followed this tradi-
tion by participating in Vacation Bible Schools and
nursing home visitation and volunteering at church
camps for children with special needs. Her pastor,
Darin McCarty, credits her leadership in restarting
a dormant youth program at that church.
Muskogee District Superintendent Linda Harker first
met Molly at Pocola UMC, and conversations followed at
church camp. She said Molly “is well respected wherever
she goes.”
Kaleb Oakleaf
Kaleb Oakleaf is a young man of many talents. In high
school he was a member of the baseball team and Future
Farmers of America. He served two years as a Student Coun-
cil representative, played alto saxophone in two bands, and
earned the rank of Eagle Scout.
Been Oakleaf
When he sensed God’s call upon him for ordained
ministry, he pursued that calling with the same energy and
passion.
At Pond Creek-First UMC, Pastor Sonja Tobey guided
him through the initial stages of discerning his call. Rev.
Tobey wrote, “He is in every Bible study I teach, and he is
active in Sunday school, worship, and youth group.”
Kaleb attended the recent Annual Conference session
in Tulsa as a youth delegate from the Enid District. He also
already has had many opportunities to preach; he is trained
as a Certified Lay Speaker.
Nathan Dunn
Nathan Dunn is eager to begin his journey
toward a degree in youth ministry at OCU. At his
home church, Klein UMC in Spring, Texas, he is
known as a respected leader among the young
people and an active participant in mission trips,
including one to Belize.
His high school teachers noted that Nathan
does not settle for merely acceptable work; he
strives for excellence. This has enabled his suc-
cess in extracurricular activities, such as Speech
& Debate Team and the Fellowship of Christian
Athletes, while maintaining good grades and work-
ing part-time.
It is when speaking about his faith that Nathan’s
passion for ministry becomes evident. He is inten-
tional about learning from positive role models at the
Dunn church and following the example of Jesus.
Pastor Mark Young wrote, “Nathan loves the
church. He exemplifies what all pastors are look-
ing for: people who desire to be in discipleship and grow in
their faith.”
————
Maggie Ball, vice-president for University-Church Rela-
tions, notes that all applicants for this award often are eligible
for other scholarship assistance. We encourage all clergy and
laypersons to identify youths in your congregations who
express interest and ability in ministry. Encourage them
to apply to become a Bishop’s Scholar and for other OCU
scholarships as well.

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 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: July 30.
 Page 3A
To the people called United Methodist
I
By Bishop Robert Hayes Jr.
bid you greetings, grace, and peace in the matchless
name of our risen Lord and Savior!
It is truly amazing to me that already I have served
almost six years as the bishop of the Oklahoma Annual Con-
ference and the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference
(OIMC). I am grateful to God for sending us here and for
allowing us to be in servant ministry alongside you.
Already there are people speculating about what will
happen two years from now, when my current four-year as-
signment concludes as your episcopal leader. Let me be as
clear as I can about my future and this annual conference.
When the Jurisdictional Conference convenes in 2012—in
Oklahoma City—the assignment of bishops is considered
for the next four years. I declare this to you: If I have the
endorsement of the Episcopacy Committee for both this
Conference and the OIMC, I will ask to stay in Oklahoma
through 2016, to culminate my ministry career in two confer-
ences I love dearly.
I will make that request based upon the work that still
must be accomplished here. We planted seeds of possibility
and hope through the adoption of our Strategic Plan for this
conference two years ago. We initiated a strategy to examine
and enhance how we build healthy congregations; to plant
new faith communities; to identify, recruit, equip, and send
forth spiritual leaders. We agreed to hold ourselves account-
able as we reach out to more people, more diverse people,
and younger people.
I believe if we remain faithful and “follow the plan,” as
our 2010 Annual Conference theme suggests, the results truly
will transform every place.
It has been a productive, fruitful year. I want to highlight
some of it for you.
n Despite this time of national economic scarcity, the
Oklahoma Conference has done more than survive—we have
succeeded in doing even more with less! We will continue to
do all we can to be good stewards of what you entrust to us.
In comparison to other conferences across the denomination,
Oklahoma has fared extremely well.
n Another shining example of fruitfulness that I want to
affirm is our Volunteers In Missions ministry. Congregations
engaged in missions seem to better understand their purpose
and reason for being. This ministry literally has the power
to transform the lives of those who are serving, as well as
those who are being served. In February I traveled to Liberia
with a team of volunteers. Unemployment in that nation is
estimated around 85 percent; the average salary of a United
Methodist clergyperson is $10 dollars a month. Last year our
annual conference collected an offering of $30,000, and I am
delighted to inform you the money for Liberia will go to:
—drilling 20 new water wells, at a cost of $200 each;
—$10,000 to supplement salaries of those pastors who
only earn $5 a month; and
—the major portion of the funds will be used to build a
elementary school.
n I have created a new position within our VIM pro-
gram: coordinator of mission projects in Bolivia. This posi-
tion, including salary and benefits, has been totally funded
through private donations, not from our Conference budget.
Rev. David Stephenson will be based in Tulsa, traveling to
Bolivia regularly. Having gone to Bolivia, I saw firsthand
the tremendous investment the Oklahoma Conference has
in this struggling nation. It seems fitting to have a person
giving full-time attention to the multitude of mission projects
we have there.
n Our fruitful relationship with Oklahoma City University
also continues to deepen and prosper. OCU offers tuition-
free education to Oklahoma United Methodist clergy, their
The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact
2010 Episcopal Address
Gift to bishop
Bishop Hayes, center, receives a DVD gift, a
recording of the 2010 Memorial Service from the
Texas Annual Conference. The recording contains
the ritual roll-call that included his late father,
Robert E. Hayes Sr., a clergyman in that Confer-
ence. Texas’ and Oklahoma’s annual conferences
ran concurrently, and both memorial services
were held the same evening. Bishop Hayes ful-
filled his duties at the Oklahoma event while other
family members attended the ceremonies in the
Houston area. Joseph Harris, left, and Craig Stin-
son presented the gift on behalf of all the people
of the Oklahoma Conference.
spouses, and other dependents. I know of no other college or
university doing that! OCU is truly our school and our rela-
tionship with it has never been better. Join me in congratulat-
ing President Tom and Brenda McDaniel for their outstanding
leadership, as they near retirement. Likewise, welcome Judge
Robert Henry as the university’s new president, and his wife,
Jan, who take up their new roles in July.
n The continued progress of the Saint Paul School of
Theology at OCU is yet another glowing achievement. The
dean, Dr. Elaine Robinson, was invited recently to speak
to leaders of several denominations about the possibilities
of training (their) candidates for ministry. That tells me the
creation of this seminary has an appeal to other denomina-
tions eager to effectively train and prepare individuals for
ministry. In 2011, we will celebrate the first graduating class
from the seminary.
These are just a few of the positive signs that lead me to
believe we are bearing fruit for Christ.
One issue consumes me at this time. It goes to the very heart
of who we are and what we will be in the coming years.
For more than a year, you have heard me speak on the
issue of how much it costs for a seminary education and how
much debt our pastors are bearing when they finish their
required studies. Our denomination’s research shows it is
common for pastors to owe tens of thousands of dollars in
seminary debt as they graduate and enter service at lower-
salaried churches.
If we are going to recruit, equip, and send out the best
pastors to fill our pulpits, then we must change the system
of how we go about educating them!
The Methodist movement has always placed special
emphasis on training and educating its clergy. We were
literally birthed on a university campus—Oxford—and, as
early as 1789, the first church publishing house in America
July 9, 2010
was established by the Methodist Church to supply preach-
ers and Sunday schools with Christian literature. (Page 13,
Book of Discipline)
I announced last year that, with the help of the Okla-
homa United Methodist Foundation, we would establish an
endowment fund to address this issue of seminary debt. We
have done that. The Leadership Investment Fund (through)
Education—LIFE, as we call it—is the best investment we
can make for the future of ministry in the Oklahoma Con-
ference.
A national study by the Lewis Center for Church Leader-
ship revealed that 48 percent of all United Methodist clergy
elders are older than 55. The percentage is alarmingly small
among young adult candidates for ordination as elders. At
this time, only about 5 percent of provisional and ordained
elders are younger than age 35.
What these statistics point out is this: Gifted and qualified
young women and men desiring to go into ministry can’t
afford it!
The church is poorer because we cannot attract talented
individuals into a system that demands an education, but does
little or nothing to help pay for it.
I intend to devote a great amount of time to building up
the resources of the LIFE fund, and I ask you to share this
appeal in each of your churches—and with anyone who may
unite with us in this concern.
At our Bishop’s Retreats for all clergy in September,
applications will be given to every clergy member seeking
assistance to repay what they owe for their seminary train-
ing. We will compile those applications, assess the scope
of need and, hopefully by the middle of next year, begin
paying off those debts—freeing our pastors FROM these
financial burdens and FOR the wonderful ministry to which
God calls them.
I have seen firsthand how Oklahomans stand together to
face all kinds of challenges. I recall us reaching out this year
after tornadoes and hailstorms swept our state. A May letter
from UMCOR, the United Methodist Committee on Relief,
stated that the people of the Oklahoma Conference had given
more than $613,500 for relief and recovery in response to the
devastating earthquake in Haiti.
When there is need, Oklahoma United Methodists re-
spond. The matter of seminary indebtedness is a financial
crisis that cannot go unaddressed.
We have the capacity to change the system and, with our
success here in Oklahoma, the entire Church will stand up and
take notice. Power is in our hands and in our pocketbooks.
We will act because, as Eugene Peterson translates Paul’s
letter, “God doesn’t want us to be shy with God’s gifts, but
bold and loving and sensible” (II Timothy 1:7).
I unflinchingly proclaim to you that God has given all we
need to face the challenges of doing ministry and missions
in a world trying to find its way. God has called us to make
a difference and equipped us to claim victory in the name of
Jesus Christ.
We must answer God’s call boldly. If not now, when? If
not us, who?
May God’s blessings be with us as we bravely continue
marching to Zion!
(View the full speech by Bishop Hayes online. Go to www.
okumc.org and click “OKVideo.”)
To join the bishop
in support of the LIFE fund,
use the form on page 8A.
Page 4A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact July 9, 2010

n NEW YORK CITY PERFORMANCE—A dozen choir members performed at

Carnegie Hall on May 23 as part of the Distinguished Concerts International New
Ministry snapshots
York Series.
The Norman group
was invited to perform
Haydn’s “Lord Nel-
son Mass” as part of
a 177-member com-
bined choir directed
by Jason Bishop, a
former St. Stephen’s
choir director who is
now director of choral
activities and founder
of the Young People’s
Chorus at Penn State.
Steve Davis said,
“When we first walked
out for the dress re-
n HOLY MOMENT—Rancher Ernie Milligan, center, is baptized at his home in hearsal, it almost took
late May by Pastor Billy Wright, left, of Copan UMC and Maurice Major, Bartlesville
my breath away. Then when we performed—to see the expression on Jason’s face
District superintendent. Milligan, an award-winning competitive steer roper, has been
and a packed house—it’s something I’ll always treasure.”
homebound after an injury. He and his wife, Susie, live on 160 acres near Dewey, with
Shown in New York City are St. Stephen’s choir members, from left, front row: Beth
horses, guinea fowls, and a dog. They have an arena where he practices roping.
Grimmett-Tankersley, Marilyn Nicely, Sharon Gray; center row: Steve Davis, Carol Lee,
Sharon Varnum, Jane Thomas; and back row: Sally Vandewater, Ron Gray, Marilyn
Ogilvie, Jeanne Stenis, former choir director Jason Bishop, and Christina Doak.
n HELPING ONE ANOTHER—On Holy
Saturday, members of Highland Park in Stillwater,
along with Richard Buchanan of Stillwater-First n EASTER OUTREACH—The
UMC, prepared an Easter surprise for the members Easter Bunny cradles a child April 3 at
of Agra UMC. Okemah City Park during a free com-
Ten missioners descended upon Agra for a munity egg hunt hosted by St. Paul’s
painting project. UMC in Okemah.
The task: Paint all window sills, eaves, and Some 1,400 Easter eggs were hunted
front and back porches at the church, and paint by more than 300 children, according
the downtown cross-and-flame sign that directs to the Okemah News Leader. St. Paul’s
people to the church. Located on Highway 18, also served about 500 free hot dogs.
Agra is about 15 miles south of Stillwater. This Easter project launched in 2009
Pastor Derrek Belase of Highland Park coor- to offer radical hospitality to families
dinated this project after a district-wide facility in Okemah, according to Pastor Brian
needs survey was completed by the Stillwater Matthews. He said the church is follow-
District Board of Church Building and Location. ing a Strategic Plan and sees its great-
Windows were recently updated in the 103-year- At Agra UMC, prepping
the front windows for est potential on the four-part Fruitful
old church building, and painting was needed. Congregations Grid as the community
“When I read Agra’s report, I realized we could painting are Jim and
Judy Brewer of Highland of faith focused outward.
easily do this project with the resources in our “There are hundreds of families in
church,” he said. Park UMC in Stillwater.
Okemah who do not actively practice
The Agra project was a combined effort. The their faith,” said Rev. Matthews. “Ener- Photo provided by the Okemah News Leader
district paid to have the church prepared for painting and hired a professional to gized by the Strategic Plan, the church
paint the tallest portions of the building. Highland Park’s mission team provided the is seeking to build relationships with the entire family.”
supplies, and First UMC provided transportation and ladders.
On April 3, the painting was completed and the work team was treated to lunch,
courtesy of the women of Agra UMC. n MISSION IN KANSAS—
“What an Easter gift!” commented Hugh Willoby, a retired pastor who serves the The churches at Calumet and
Agra/Ripley charge. “It was great to see that on Easter morning.” Red Rock joined forces for
a Spring Break mission trip,
serving at Cross-Lines com-
munity outreach in Kansas
City, Kan.
For the non-profit agency,
the Oklahoma group of 13
took part in various projects,
from helping prepare food for
the breakfast and lunch pro-
grams to sorting prom dresses
and tuxedos for distribution to Volunteers Charlie Beard, left, and
teens. Some worked outside Marshal Williamson prepare breakfast.
the Cross-Lines complex, planting flowers, removing rocks, and raking leaves.
“Our focus was to do good wherever we are, and the group set such a good ex-
n HANGING HANDIWORK—Claudia Graham, right, created these quilted ban- ample. This mission trip was a good experience to see things we do not see on a daily
ners that represent the seasons of the Christian year and now hang at Verden United basis,” said Pastor Matthew Franks.
Methodist Church, in Lawton District. Pastor is Charles Watson, at left. A funding Darlette Edwards said, “Cross-Lines relies daily on donations, and it was amazing
gift from the estate of Fern Cassel was used to purchase the materials, and Graham to see how God provided each day what they needed.”
donated her time and skill. “I’m looking forward to going back next year,” said Jordan Tech.
 Page 5A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact July 9, 2010

Couple finds unexpected kindness in far country

'My husband and I were
planning a simple
ceremony'—Leslie Long
Leslie Long and Don Wheeler will never forget
a church’s kindness to strangers.
The Oklahoma couple wanted to renew their
wedding vows in Ireland, Leslie’s ancestral
homeland, to mark their 25th anniversary. They
had visited Ireland in 2007 with their children,
Keegan, London, and Brenna. But the anniversary
trip was parents only.
They began an Internet search for Methodist
churches in the part of Northern Ireland that Les-
lie’s predecessors called home in the 1840s.
“I found Cavandoragh. I liked the many things
they were doing, I liked what it said about their
history, and so I e-mailed the minister,” said Rev.
Dr. Long, director of the Wesley Foundation at the
University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond.
“My husband and I were planning on a simple
ceremony, probably the preacher and ourselves.
But Rev. John Beacom asked if we would mind if
some of the church people came. We really were
not sure anyone would want to attend.”
On the evening of Dec. 13, 2009, the Irish pas-
tor escorted them to the country church.
Long described, “There were around 30 folks
gathered. They had someone playing the piano.
John did a full service, with a homily. The church
had a reception for us—cake, mince pies, tea,
finger sandwiches, and other snacks.”
She expressed, “What a gift to be treated so
kindly by Methodists in another country! I really
did feel connected to these folks. The hospitality
they shared was more than I ever imagined. The
ceremony and reception came from a desire to
celebrate and commemorate a milestone in our
lives. What came from their care and hospitality
are memories I will cherish forever.”
The couple has felt God’s sustaining grace
throughout their marriage. Long said her hus-
band’s support has been crucial for her clergy
journey.
“He was a PK (preacher’s kid) and knew a little
about this church stuff, but honestly I could not
have done everything I have done without him,”
she said. Her ministry has included a Christian
Education project in Bolivia.

Group stitches love

for wider community
For the quilters who meet at Velma United Method-
ist Church, it’s about giving back to the community and
about fellowship.
During 2009, the quilters raised $1,250 for the Velma
Volunteer Fire Department and $500 for an air condition-
ing unit for Velma UMC.
After presenting the funds to the firefighters, quilter
Tommie Romine-Roskam said, “This is our way of help-
ing them because they help so many people.”
“It makes you feel good when you can contribute your
time to your community, to give back to the volunteer,”
said Pastor Linda Lusnia, who serves both Velma and
Duncan-Wesley.
Since December 1990, quilters have gathered at 8 a.m.
every Tuesday at Velma UMC and steadfastly worked
until 3 p.m.
“One of the neatest things is it’s not just Methodist,”
Rev. Lusnia said. “It’s a nondenominational group that
gets together.”
And it’s far more than a quilting group.
“It is the women coming together, not only to quilt,
but to support one another,” Lusnia said. “It’s people
from all kinds of backgrounds. We learn a lot from our
differences and similarities. Whether members are deal-
ing with a funeral, wedding, or birth, they are all there
for one another.”
During the quilting session, Lusnia leads a Bible study
at 10 a.m. She is a new quilter. “It has been very interesting
to learn,” she said. “It has its own language. I still can’t
say all the things like they can.”
—Excerpted, with permission, from a story by David Laughlin,
The Duncan Banner. http://duncanbanner.com/

Opportunities
Youth Director: Part-time.
Rick Robart, First UMC, P.O.
Box 610, Dewey, OK 74029.
Director of Music Minis-
tries: Youth Ministry Direc-
tor: Church Secretary: First
UMC, Cynthia Wilson, 200 S.
6th St., Ponca City, OK 74601,
cynthiaw@cableone.net, 580-
762-1681.
Choir Director: Part-time.
Sam Powers, Piedmont UMC,
sam@piedmontumc.org, 405-
373-2298.
Pianist/Organist: Part-
time. Ponca City-Albright UMC,
580-765-6432.
Musician: Part-time. Che-
cotah UMC, Wayne Loftin,
revloftin1@windstream.net,
918-473-5714.
Director of Ministries to
Youth, Children and Fami-
lies: Full-time. Tulsa-Memorial
Drive UMC, pastor.mdumc@
tulsacoxmail.com, 918-398-
3891.
Administrative Assistant:
Full-time. St. Stephen’s UMC,
Donna Dodson, 400 W. New Or-
leans St., Broken Arrow, 74011,
ddodson@ssumcba.org.
Needed: Warehouse space
and truck in Oklahoma City for
Project Noel. November and
December Joe Tilton, 580-331-
7733; or Amanda Lockwood,
405-257-3105.
Pews, light fixtures, etc.:
Free. Church is remodeling.
Duncan-First UMC, 580-255-
3353.
Page 6A
Pastor Greg
Tener and
acolyte
Versile
Johnson
prepare May
30 to lead
the congre-
gation of
Poteau-First
from the
sanctuary to
the Christian
Family Life
Center, the
temporary
worship
location.
Poteau making space
for next century of ministry
By Carol Baker
Church Historian, Poteau UMC
On May 30, the final Sunday morning worship ser-
vice took place in the sanctuary of Poteau’s First United
Methodist Church.
This service had a special purpose: to help the
congregation say goodbye to the 100-year-old sanctu-
ary. Demolition began June 14, launching a new era in
worship, nurture, and outreach ministries.
The Christian Family Life Center on the property is
serving as a temporary sanctuary until a new building
is complete.
“Building a new sanctuary has been a dream of many
church members for several years,” said Pastor Greg
Tener. “The decision to build it was not made easily,
but prayerfully. This is a growing congregation that
simply needs more space—space that is as inviting as
the congregation.”
Church members have, for more than a year, been in
diligent prayer, including a weekend prayer vigil, before
voting to proceed with a building project.
The years had taken a great toll on the aged, out-
grown, and outdated building. Major structural prob-
lems had surfaced. Steep stairs provided the only access
to every area in the building.
Now there is excitement about the prospects of a
beautiful, spacious facility, modern in every way. Yet
Hitchcock’s lay pastors explain why ‘This is a church on fire for God’
The Hitchcock Church has heard God calling and has
answered, “Send me, Lord.”
Lay Speakers James and Shirley Farmer are appointed
as Supply Pastors at Hitchcock, where worship attendance
averaged 31 in 2009.
 One member asked what could be done to help a heart-
transplant patient and her family. A “Benefit Gathering” for
her was organized and raised $18,000.
The rural church in Enid District learned Campbell Soup
Co. donates food to organizations that aid the hungry. Mem-
bers secured a donation and picked up the food in Paris, Texas.
They distributed it to people in Hitchcock, Okeene, Watonga,
The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact
the undertaking also generates grieving. We imagine
those historic walls were saturated with the praise and
prayers of all those disciples who worshipped there
across a century.
Throughout our fund-raising campaign, we used the
theme “May all who come behind us find us faithful.”
We aspire to do for our descendants what was done for
us in 1909, when that stately building was constructed
by people with a vision for the future. We wonder: Did
they imagine a congregation here in the year 2010?
Of concern has been the fate of the sanctuary’s
stained-glass windows. They were professionally re-
moved, and they will be refurbished, stored safely, and
placed in the new structure. Other sanctuary artifacts, in-
cluding the cross, also will be used in the new space.
Poteau-First’s ministry will be enhanced by: more
adequate space for welcoming people into the building,
improved space for music ministry, an enlarged chancel
area to support worship activities, and improved sound
and audiovisual equipment.
Rev. Dr. Tener reminded the congregation to keep
foremost in mind that the new sanctuary is being built
to honor God and to be of service to our community
and neighbors.
Please hold our church members in your prayers dur-
ing this time of demolition, construction, and change.
Loyal, Omega, Marlow, Ringwood, and Beaver.
With the products received through the Conference’s
“Project Noel” program, the church prepared about 75
Christmas packages for children—and then added food gifts
for families.
The former Hitchcock school now serves as a community
center. Church members on the center’s board envisioned
staging a Christmas play and called for young performers.
Initially, 12 youths stepped up. When that number grew to 19
young people, planners chose to present three one-act plays.
Children of multiple faiths performed, supported that evening
by an attendance of more than 200 people.
July 9, 2010
Jones dedicates wing
On May 9, Jones
United Methodist
Church dedicated a
new educational wing,
free of debt.
M o t h e r ’s D a y
2010 was an appro-
priate date to celebrate
a building project that
began as “A Step of
Faith” on Mother’s New educational wing at Jones UMC
Day 2008. On that ear-
lier date, Pastor Sherry Heath encouraged the members to pray, asking
God if they should make a step-of-faith commitment for an addition to
house Sunday school classes.
By Mother’s Day 2009, the congregation had raised money to fully
fund the work, and a ground-breaking was held June 6, 2009. Sunday
school classes first met in the new building on April 25, 2010.
The wing comprises eight classrooms, with one doubling as a nurs-
ery; three restrooms; and storage space.
Giving for the project continued beyond the capital campaign, en-
abling the church also to construct a new parking lot and to purchase
furnishings for the classrooms and common areas of the addition.
“It is a great feeling to have a new building for our church family,
and one that is mortgage-free,” said Rev. Heath.
At the dedication, guest preacher was North Oklahoma City District
Superintendent Dan Pulver. “We have a purpose in life. Life is going
somewhere. What’s next?” he challenged.
Joe
Lynch,
left, and
Daniel
Llanos-
Jimenez
pray
at the
chapel
dedica-
tion.
Nueva Esperanza creates chapel
In Tulsa, a new prayer chapel was dedicated May 23 by the Nueva
Esperanza congregation.
The Hispanic congregation and Rose Hill UMC share the building
at 748 N. Louisville Ave. Their food pantry on site recently was moved
into a larger room. Working with Pastor Daniel Llanos-Jimenez, a small
group in the Hispanic fellowship transformed the newly vacated room
into the “Mount of Prayer” chapel.
Rev. Llanos-Jimenez said the chapel will be used for small-group
services, prayer vigils, and for counseling and prayer sessions with
people assisted through the food pantry ministry. The space will seat
about 20 people, according to Pastor David Reynolds of Rose Hill.
On Pentecost Sunday, the dedication ceremony was led by Joe Lynch,
who chairs the Tulsa District Hispanic Ministries Committee. Most of
the committee members also attended.
The Blaine County Health Department needed baby
clothing and blankets. Learning of the need, the church
delivered more than 35 sets of pajamas and many blankets,
and placed some children’s books in the waiting room at the
county health center.
After the earthquake in Haiti, the church voted to donate
at least 150 UMCOR emergency health kits.
The Farmers wrote to District Superintendent Gary
Holdeman: “This is a church on fire for God. They requested
Bible Study every Wednesday night; almost the whole church
family comes. It’s a wonderful thing to see them work. They
want to make a difference.”
 Page 7A
In memoriam
Verlyn Snell
Memorial service for Rev. Dr. Verlyn
R. Snell will be at 2 p.m. Aug. 14 at Nardin
UMC. Rev. Snell, 75, of Overland Park,
Kan., died June 18, 2010.
He was born Nov. 10, 1934. Verlyn and
Sammie Snell married on Aug. 17, 1960. He
received his doctorate degree in 1976 from
Phillips Theological Seminary, Enid.
His ministry career began in 1957. He
pastored churches in the Free Methodist de-
nomination for 20 years before his Oklahoma
Conference service began, in 1985.
He was pastor at Nardin, Madill, Miami,
Cushing, and OKC-Nichols Hills United
Methodist Churches. He also served on the
Conference Board of Ordained Ministry; he
cherished opportunities to commend and
mentor persons in the candidacy process.
After retiring in 2004, the Snells began at-
tending Valley View UMC, at Overland Park,
and he was active in choir, United Methodist
Men, and the outreach committee.
Survivors include his wife, Sammie; three
daughters, Anne Heinrich of Aurora, Ill.,
Alathea Voss of Lenexa, Kan., and Ardeth
Arman of Overland Park; and 10 grand-
children.
Al Scifres
Rev. Alfred Kent Scifres, 51, of Ardmore
died June 22, 2010.
Al was born Dec. 18, 1958, in Los Ange-
les, Calif. He married Margaret Irene Mobley
on Oct. 7, 1978. He served in the Navy for 16
years. He also was a volunteer firefighter.
From 2005 through 2009, he was pastor
at Calvin, Erick, Reydon, Forgan, and Gate
churches.
Survivors include his wife, Margaret; two
daughters and a son, P.J. Scifres of Ardmore,
Carrie Scifres-Harvey, and Billy Harvey; and
a grandson.
Memorial service was June 26 at Ard-
more-First UMC. Arrangements were by
Corbett Funeral and Cremation Service,
Oklahoma City.
David Bates
Rev. Matthew David Bates, 73, of Okla-
homa City died June 29, 2010. A retired elder,
he had pastored for more than 40 years.
David was born Oct. 13, 1936, in Tulsa.
David and Elaine Bates were married for
52 years.
His ministry began in 1957 at Avant.
He also served at: Mannford, Keystone,
Bokchito, Bennington, Oilton, Cleo Springs,
Oakdale, Carmen, Guymon-Christ, Owasso,
Tulsa-Hale Heights, Coweta, Porter, Jones,
Ardmore-Asbury, Lawton-Heights, Henry-
etta, Dustin, OKC-Asbury, Jenks, Broken
Bow, Eagletown, Prague, Arlington, and Red
Rock. He is credited with building projects at
four churches. He officially retired in 1998.
Survivors include his wife, Elaine; four
sons, Matt Bates of Richmond, Va., Phil
Bates of Alpharetta, Ga., Steve Bates of
Garland, Texas, and Tom Bates of Oklahoma
City; and nine grandchildren.
Service was July 3 at OKC-Putnam City
UMC, with arrangements by Bill Merritt
Funeral Services, Bethany.
The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact July 9, 2010
Charles Wells
Rev. Dr. Charles Edgar Wells, 85, of
Oklahoma City died June 14, 2010. He was
a retired elder.
Charles was born Feb. 10, 1925, in Okla-
homa City. While working as a youth pastor
at OKC-First, he met Royleen Kizziar, and
they married in 1946.
His ministry began in 1946. He was the
pastor at Capitol Hill, May Avenue, and
Asbury churches in Oklahoma City; and
at Miami, Pauls Valley, Tulsa-Christ, and
Stillwater-First. He was director of the Okla-
homa Conference Council on Ministries for
10 years. He served as South Oklahoma City
District superintendent from 1988 until his
retirement in 1993.
Rev. Dr. Wells worked to establish a
comprehensive United Methodist senior care
program in Oklahoma City. His vision led to
the founding and building of Epworth Villa
and Strawberry Fields.
Also an advocate for the protection of
children, he was honored in 1988 as Okla-
homa Child Care Worker of the Year.
Survivors include his wife, Royleen; son,
Chuck; daughters, Barbara and Mary; and six
grandchildren.
Memorial service was June 18 at OKC-
May Avenue UMC. Arrangements were by
Rose Hill Burial Park, Oklahoma City.
Sabrina Trujillo
Sabrina Bennett Trujillo, 51, of Fort Cobb
died June 17, 2010, in Dallas. She was the
wife of Rev. Tim Trujillo Sr., who is the pas-
tor of Fort Cobb and Highland churches. Oklahoma Annual Conference
She was born Aug. 5, 1958, in Oklahoma Following the Plan: Faithful Witness, Transforming Presence
City. She married Rev. Trujillo on May 7, May 30-June 2, 2010, Tulsa
1988.
With degrees in music, she had led the Video and Audio Recording Order Form
D.C. Youth Orchestra, played in the Irving
and Mesquite (Texas) symphonies, and
participated in the music ministries of Tyler
Street UMC, Dallas. Session Audio CD DVD
Mrs. Trujillo was employed by Fujitsu Memorial and Communion (Sunday) ________ ________
Corp.
Survivors include her husband, Rev. Episcopal Address (Monday) _ ________ _________
Trujillo; son, Timothy Jr.; daughter, Eryn; Service of Commissioning (Monday) _ ________ _________
and a grandchild.
Retirement Service (Tuesday) _ ________ _________
Service was June 19 at Tyler Street UMC,
with arrangements by Jeter & Son, Dallas. Service of Ordination (Tuesday) _ ________ _________
• Lamar Tillery, 71, of Columbia, Tenn., Number of Audio CDs _ ________
died June 17, 2010. Survivors include his Cost per CD: $6, Complete Set $25
son, Rev. Brantley Tillery, pastor at Tulsa-St. Number of DVDs _ ________ _________
Luke’s Redemption Ministry, and daughter- Cost per DVD: $15, Complete Set $70
in-law, Rev. Cydni Tillery, pastor at Locust
Grove UMC. Total cost per column _ ________ _________
$ ____________________ Grand Total
Birth
Charlotte Elizabeth Smith was born May
Name__________________________________________________________________
18, 2010. She is the daughter of Allyson and
Rev. Trevor Smith, pastor at Sallisaw. Address_ _______________________________________________________________
Appointment City ______________________ State ______________________Zip code____________
Donald Jones to Nardin UMC (Enid Dis- Phone__________________________________________________________________
trict) from Minnesota Annual Conference,
effective July 1. E-mail__________________________________________________________________
Sara Bodenstein to leave of absence from Mail to: Oklahoma Conference Department of Communications
Chapel Hill UMC (North OKC), effective 1501 N.W. 24th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73106
July 1.
Page 8A The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact July 9, 2010

From left, outgoing Oklahoma

City University President Tom
and Brenda McDaniel accept
twin Francis Asbury Awards from
Campus Ministries, represented
by George Warren and Mark
Whitley. The national award typi-
cally is restricted to one recipient
in each annual conference. An
exception was granted to honor
the McDaniels, due to their out-
standing service at OCU.

Photos by Holly McCray

Honored at Annual Conference
Award presentations at Annual Conference spotlight outstanding minis-
tries and inspire more efforts to transform the world as Christ’s disciples.
Above, on behalf of the Commission on Religion & Race, Chairman
Glenn Harris, right, presents Oklahoma’s bishop with a new award
named in his honor: the Bishop Robert E. Hayes Jr. Racial Unity Award.
“The Commission recognizes your incredible contribution to our mission
of greater understanding and unity between races and ethnic groups in Above left: Given by the Board of Laity, a district It given by United Methodist Rural Fellowship (UMRF).
our Conference,” Harris told the bishop. “Through your preaching, your Worked for Us award went to Bartlesville-First for its Worship attendance now is averaging 80 people at
visits, your advocacy, your integrity, and your Christian example, you “Try Church” advertising campaign. From left are Casi the church. Last year, Gene Autry won in the “40 and
have inspired us to greater heights in loving God and loving our neigh- Morris, Meredith Nelson, and Mark Pinkerton. Above under” worship attendance category. From left are
bors.” For details about this new award, e-mail oklahomacorr@yahoo. right: Growth at Gene Autry UMC propelled that UMRF leader Gary Moody, Gene Autry Mayor and
com. View online photo collections of more award recipients at the 2010 Ardmore District church into a larger judging category church member Katherine McQuistion, and Pastor
Annual Conference. Go to: www.okumc.org/galleries. for Outstanding Town & Country Church awards, Sharen Hale.

Leadership Investment Fund through Education

A seminary education is costly and it is important to help our future and current pastors through seminary with
little or no education debt. The Leadership Investment Fund through Education will help alleviate the financial
burden of clergy responding to the call to serve our church in the Oklahoma Annual Conference.
Contributing to the LIFE Fund represents one of the greatest investment we can make in the Oklahoma Annual
Conference. Please consider making a gift to the LIFE scholarship fund with a pledge over the next three years
to support the future leaders of our church. For more information about the fund contact the Oklahoma United
Methodist Foundation at 800-259-6863 or www.okumf.org.

Name ________________________________________________________________________________
Address _____________________________________ City, State, Zip _______________________________
Phone Number _________________________ Email Address _____________________________________

o I would like to make a pledge of $_________ per year for three years.*
o I would like to make a pledge of $_________ payable in one lump sum. *
*You will be contacted regarding how you would like to make your pledge (debit/credit card, bank draft, or by check).

o I would like to include the LIFE Scholarship Fund in my will or estate plan.
(You will be contacted by David Battles at the Foundation for more information.)

o I am interested in establishing a LIFE Fund Charitable Gift Annuity.

(You will be contacted by David Battles at the Foundation for more information.)

The Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation • 4201 N. Classen Blvd. • OKC, OK 73118