News from our Pastor

I N S I D E T H I S

I S S U E : P G

Joys/Concerns/

Memorials

2

Taud’s Loose Ends/

Disciple/Handbells

3

11th Annual

Pumpkin Patch

4

RENEW:

Wednesday

activities news

5

UMW and UMM

News/Women’s

Retreat/Missions

News

6

Upcoming Events/

Thank You’s

7

Children’s Sunday

School News/

Trailblazers/Choir

8

Children’s Sched-

ule (Aug, Sep)

9-

10

Youth News/

Magalassi Brunch 11

Contact Info/

Schedule

12

A U G U S T 3 1 , 2 0 1 1 V O L U M E 1 4 , I S S U E 1 3 9

* Wednesday

night activies

resume Sep 7th

* 11th Annual

Pumpkin Patch

coming soon!

* Lots to put on

your calendar!

Owasso Observer First United Methodist Church of Owasso

I am excited that our church is offering Financial Peace University this fall. For several years I have desired to offer a class on personal financial management. As the economy took a turn for the worse it seemed more critical. A couple of years ago one of our members, Bethany Wood, offered some classes on personal finances in a course called “ Freed Up” and several families benefitted from these classes. Howev-er I felt that this needed to be a movement in our church that affected many families and not just a class which some families attended. I had heard about a program offered by our United Methodist Foundation which used Financial Peace University. But more than just offering a class the Foundation offered guidance on how to make this a movement. Bethany and I attended a training event in May where they presented the plan for this. Mike Wiley, who was here last Sunday, was one of the main presenters at this training event. I became more convinced that this was something that we needed to offer this fall. I have set a goal for our church to have 50-100 families taking Financial Peace this fall. So far we have had over 30 families who have indicated that they are interested in taking Financial Peace. While I am certainly pleased that these families are interested I do believe that many other families would benefit from the training that Financial Peace University offers. Most of us have never received training on the han-dling of our personal finance. And many of us feel uncomfortable talking about this. However, the way we handle our finances is an important spiritual issue. So far those who have signed up have indicated that Wednesday and Sunday evenings are the best times for these classes so I know we will have classes on those evenings. We have also had some families indicate that Thursday is good for them and we will see if we have enough for that evening as well. I want to encourage you to take Financial Peace this fall. If you are interested please let us know as soon as possible by contacting the church or signing up on Sunday. Classes will begin next week on September 7th (Wednesdays), September 8th (Thursdays), September 11th (Sundays). There are 13 class sessions which means we will meet until Mid-December. Kits cost $84 and includes a book, CD’s, workbook and other tools for the class. Be a part of a movement in our church for Financial Peace! Yours in Christ, Chris

S P E C I A L P O I N T S

O F I N T E R E S T :

Staff News We are pleased to announce that several staff position have been filled in the last month. First our new Financial Secretary is Karen McKibbin. Karen had already been serving as our Assistant Secretary. The transition to this new position is going well. In a related development Dana McConnell has been brought on board to serve as our Assistant Secretary. Dana and her family have been active in our church for about 4 years. We are excited to have Dana serve in this new role. We have also hired new custodians. Zac and Sara Green have already started in this new posi-tion. They have 3 children and have been attending our church regularly this summer. Sara’s sister is Janelle Roberts so she has family in our church as well. Our nursery is undergoing changes as well. We have two nursery workers who are resigning. LeAnne Campbell resigned effective this August 25. She had served in our nursery for several years and we will miss LeAnne’s presence in the nursery. Also Mendi Burns who is due with her third child in September will be resigning sometime soon. She is planning to continue as long as she is able when the baby comes. That means, of course, that we are looking for more help in the nursery. If you or someone you know is interested, please contact the church office!

The Owasso Observer is published monthly. Deadline for articles is the 4th Sunday of the month. Any questions or articles can be sent to communications @fumcowassso.org

P A G E 2

Matthew 7:7-8

“Ask and it will be

given to you; seek

and you will find;

knock and the

door will be

opened to you. For

everyone who asks

receives; he who

seeks finds; and to

him who knocks,

the door will be

opened”

“Pray

continually”

- 1 Thessalonians

5: 5:17

Inside Story Headline

Concerns…Joys…Answered Prayers (week of 08/29/11)

Karen Barton requested prayers for some friends, Bob & Anna Shay who have both been recent-ly diagnosed with stage 4 and 3 cancer respectively. Dean Broyles requested prayers for his brother-in-law, Scott Burns who is having back surgery in Kansas City on 8-29-2011. Jerry and Barbara Carper request prayers for Barbara’s brother-in-law, Ed Nuckols who is having surgery in OKC on 8-29-2011. Loretta Eichelburger requests prayers for her husband, Ike who has some serious health issues he is facing. He will have an angioplasty procedure at St. John – Tulsa on 9-15-2011. Lori Lane requested prayers for her husband, Kevin who had a biopsy of skin area in his ear. They pray that the dermatologists will get the results by the end of the week and know what to do from there. Chris Noland requested prayers for her stepmom, Jean whose mother passed away and the fu-neral was 8-27-2011. Chris also requested prayers for a good friend whose brother was arrested this week for his involvement in drugs. It has been very stressful for their family. He is to be sentenced on Wednesday.

Continue to pray for the following Aug 28 Dean Broyles’ brother...Elsa Burgin’s friend...Kris Criss’ son-in-law...Lila Denegar’s friend...Ethan Foshee...Pam George’s friend...Kelly Hoefer’s friends...Tem and Bob Horry’s grand-son...Becky Manley...Jim Patton’s cousin...Bob Pearcy...Rick Sisemore’s brother...Wyvone Wilson’s daughter... Aug 21 Karen Barton’s co-worker...Ann Christie’s friend’s mother...Jan Epperson...Pam George’s friends’ family...Tami Gillentine’s friend...Colene Harris...Gordon Heard’s friend...Judy Kim-ball...Terri Mace & Carrie Yount’s neighbor...Debbie & Dale Rice’s family member...Kim Turner’s friend...Roma Williams’ daughter... Aug 14 Bert Abla...Lula Fark’s daughter...Jim Flaherty...Nannette Foore’s father...Cindy Gilstrap’s family member...Jean Grady’s granddaughter...Bob Humble’s grandson’s father...Becky Manley...Clay & Lee Ann McRee’s co-worker...Jim Patton’s family...Brenda Ramirez’s friend...JW Robertson...Debbie Storts’s friend...Priscilla Tiger’s co-worker’s husband...Mendell Walker

Memorials and Honorariums In Memory of Hance Henrie From: Kyle & Angela Parks, Michell & Charles Culbreath, Danny and Leah Davidson, Bobby and Dorothea Baker Ted Lloyd From: Larry & Kim Turner Fred Elder From: Ken & Ruth Peacock, Stephen & Karen Johnston, Donna Elder, James & Patricia Thompson, Lois & Jerry Carmody, Leslie & Teresa Clemmer, Mark & Ellen Kershaw, Jim & Kathy Hughes, Guy & Beth Leblanc, Juanita Ramsey

In Honor of From In Honor From Braylynn Palmer Larry & Kim Turner Rick, Cindy, Jon Bob and Sue Ruth McMahan’s Birthday Marie Gambill Steven Sisemore Hamm Mary Beth Retherford’s Birthday Marie Gambill Ruth McMahan Jack and Dorothy Inglima Linda Cooper, Mark & Ellen Kershaw Marilyn Fahrner Jean Grady Carla Elder Chris Tiger Al and Dorothy Bob Humble Carla Elder Inglima Adult SS Class & Bible Study Al & Dorothy Inglima

Prayer List—Memorials and Honorariums - Thank You’s

Thank you for all the cards, visits, and calls and food during Fred’s illness and his passing. The lunch for the fam-ily on the day of the service was really good and greatly appreciated. We feel very blessed to have a wonderful church family. Thank you to Pastor Chris and Pastor Taud for everything. In his name, Carla Elder and family Kent and I would like to thank everyone for their prayers, phone calls, cards and visitations. We are so lucky to have so many people who care. Kent is doing better each day but six weeks is a long time not to be able to work. Thank you so very much. With all our love, Kent and Sandy Vice

Taud’s “Loose Ends” - Associate Pastor’s Column P A G E 3

With school underway and the Labor Day weekend upon us, I know that fall isn’t too far behind. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’m looking forward to a shift in the weather and a different pace of activi-ties. Our Wednesday evening programming will begin on September 7th. I encourage everyone to refer to the other article in this month’s newsletter regarding everything that will be going on or better yet - go and check out the bulletin board right outside Carol Cooper’s office. She and Corrina Robinson are so good at putting those boards together and keeping everyone informed about the things that are happening as a part of our church family. I’ve created a separate article for my “Must See Movies With Taud” class. I’d encour-age everyone to check that out as well. On Thursday September 8th our church will once again host a “Feed the Rams” event. We will be feeding the entire football team and their coaching staff as they get ready for their first home game of the season against Muskogee the following evening. If you can help with the meal or organizing in some way, please fill out the response sheet in this week’s worship bulletin. We are also looking for 6 groups/classes to fill the remaining open Shalom Meal spots. Please let the church office know ASAP if your group can do this. On September 18th, the 11:11 worship service will mark one year of meeting in the chapel. It has been such a joy to be a part of this worship experience as it has grown and as it continues to offer another opportunity for family’s to worship together. You’re invited to come and check things out in the month of September as we celebrate this special milestone. As the name implies, we begin promptly at 11:11 (give or take a few minutes.) Hope to see you there. As a final “Loose End” I’d like to tie up, Buffy and I had the chance earlier in the month to attend a clergy/spouse marriage retreat and leadership seminar. It’s sponsored by the Oklahoma Conference of the UMC. We had a great time and it was a lot of fun for us. But I was reminded while we were there about how im-portant it is nurture and feed the relationships that all of us have and that are vital to us. One of the present-ers used the analogy of a plant. If we don’t water them or provide them with the nutrients they need… or if we use too much “fertilizer,” the plants that are important to us will wither and die. So, let me ask as gently as I can; how are you doing with the plants (relationships) that are important to you? Are you giving them the right amount of care and attention? Are you using too much “fertilizer?” If you’d like some tips or ideas about freshening up your relationships, I’d love to meet with you and visit about that. Peace, Mercy, and Grace be yours. In HIS Grip <>< Taud Boatman

Pumpkin Patch Outdoor Classroom

Co–Coordinator Needed

Our Outdoor Classroom needs a Co-Coordinator to help organize the various school group lessons and activities along with helping to schedule servants for the groups that visit. Last year we were able to provide activities for over 3,000 students during the month of October and this year we hope to have at least that many if not more. If you are looking for a way to meet a lot of people within our church and to spread God’s love to children in our community, this is the job for you! Please contact Corrina Robinson for more details on this very fun outreach.

Our church offers a series of Bible studies under the name “Disciple”. Disciple I is considered to be the introducto-ry study as it is an overview of the entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation. The other studies called Disciple II, III and IV follow the same format, but only cover a portion of the Old Testament and a portion of the New Testament. Each class has 32 lessons which means that when we start in mid-September that you will be fin-ished in May with breaks for holidays. Disciple has daily Bible readings and a two-hour class meeting each week. It is an excellent way to become a student of the Bible—a disciple of Jesus Christ. Disciple I will be taught by Chris Tiger on Tuesday nights. Disciple II will be taught by Taud Boatman on Tuesday nights. Please contact the church office or fill out a bulletin insert on Sunday morning to sign up.

Disciple Bible Study

Hand Bell Choirs Resume It's August and the summer break for Handbells is almost over! The Believers Bell Choir (adults) began practice on Thursday, August 18th at 6:30 p.m. in room 121/123. Gen-esis Ringers (youth) will resume on Wednesday, August 31st. Time TBD. An open invitation is extended to all inter-ested parties. Beginners are WELCOME! If you are inter-ested in playing the hand bells just show up on Thursday’s for the Believer’s BellChoir and Wednesday’s starting on August 31, for Genesis Ringers or call Steven Eddington

Football is Back

Fantasy Football Event on Saturday, September 3rd (6-8:30 pm). Youth Lodge and Great Room. Bring food to share Contact: Keith Cooper keithcooper107@hotmail.com

P A G E 4

Sometimes I think it’s funny how God must really pay attention to us...I literally just sat down to write this article—I had pasted in the logo, taken a picture of the sign out on the bulletin board, and started to think about what I wanted to say when a text message dinged on my phone. I get daily Bible verses

sent to me and today’s was from Galatians 6:9 which says, “So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up.” Around the 4th Annual Pumpkin Patch, this verse spoke volumes to Nancy Youngs and me—this is what God is calling us to do with the Patch. Funny how God must have known I needed this verse again today! SO, as September arrives, so do thoughts of orange (and even though I’m a Pokes fan, I don’t mean that orange)! You will begin to see bulletin inserts, bulletin boards and more sprouting up around this church in Orange Colored themes...We far exceeded our hopes with the 10th Annual Pumpkin Patch last year and we are eagerly awaiting what is in store for the 11th Patch. If you’ve been involved before, you know the joy the Patch brings to our community. If you haven’t, please join us this year. It’s a way to serve God, our church and our community and have a GREAT TIME doing so! There are SO (I really considered adding a bunch of O’s like I used to in Jr. High to make my point, but I digress…) many ways to get involved with the Patch. Please read the bulletin inserts or stop by the Patch board and find out ways you can serve. I’ve listed the major events below, but those are just part of what makes the Patch the best it can be. If you find yourself with a couple of extra hours in the month of October, stop by and see how you can help...I’m sure we can find ways for you to serve. But, before it even gets started, let me say THANK YOU for your continued support and love of the Patch. This year is going to be another great one—and it’s great because of everyone being committed to service here at Owasso FUMC. My love and thanks can’t be described so for now, I look forward to serving with you! Be God’s, Carol Cooper (Pumpkin Patch Chair)

Saturday, Sept. 24th 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Set up the Pumpkin

Patch!

Wednesday, September 28th 1:30 PM

1st Load of Pumpkins Arrive

Saturday, October 1st Car Show

Registration—8:00 AM Awards—1:00 PM

Saturday, October 1st Craft Faire

9:00 AM-4:00 PM

Saturday, October 1st Pumpkin Patch Café

8:00 AM—Breakfast Burrito’s by the UMM 11:00 AM-1:00 PM—Chicken Noodle Dinner by

the UMW 8:00 AM-??? Pumpkin Goodies while they last

Saturday, October 8th Hance Henrie Memorial

Run for The Patch Fun Run—8:00 AM

5K—8:30 AM 10K—9:20 AM

Saturday, October 15th 10:00 AM-12:00 PM

Fall Carnival & Safety Fair

Monday, October 31st 6:00-8:00 PM

Trunk-or-Treat & Glow Fest

Details on all events @ www.fumcowasso.org

UPCOMING PATCH EVENTS

P A G E 5

V O L U M E 1 4 , I S S U E 1 3 9

In the media-rich and image-driven culture we live in; M.S.M.W.T. uses recently released movies that raise faith based questions and themes for us to ponder together. This class is led by our associate pastor, Taud Boatman and meets in the UMC-12 movie theater upstairs on Wednesday evenings from 6:15-7:15pm and is a part of our church’s RENEW line-up. The “homework” each week will simply be to watch the movie that we are reviewing, and then come ready to discuss it during our class meeting. We will spend approximately two class sessions on each film and we will view certain scenes and clips together on the “Big Screen.” It will be helpful when you are watching these movies if you will look at them through the lens of what we are trying to do. Without ruining your movie watching experience, try to see and hear some of the metaphors and sounds that the filmmakers use in order to tell their story more effectively. Some of the “Must See Movies” for this year’s class will be… Armageddon/Deep Impact (1999), Toy Story 3 (2010), True Grit (2010), The Shawshank Redemption (1994), Eat, Pray, Love (2010), Hereafter (2010), Adjustment Bureau (2011), Inception (2010), Knowing (2009), and Lord Save Us From Your Followers (2008). There will also be a few more surprise movies that the class will get to vote on and decide if we will view together. We look forward to seeing you at the movies.

RENEW: RECHARGE, EXPLORE & NOURISH EACH WEDNESDAY Wednesday night activities begin on September 7. As you might expect, we have a full slate of things going on and no shortage of ways to plug in and be involved in the life of our church. There is a great bulletin board outside of Carol’s office with more information about all the different things going on, but we’ve also provided more information about some of what will be happening below. From music rehearsals to Financial Peace, from bible studies for children, youth, and adults to the Shalom Meal and even going to the movies — there’s lots going on and we hope that you’ll plan on spending your Wednesday night being recharged, exploring, and being nourished!

Must See Movies With Taud Littlest Lambs

The Littlest Lambs have fun while learning songs and having a Bible study. The Littlest Lambs perform the songs that they learn during the 11am Worship Service on the 2nd Sunday of each month during the school year.

What’s In The Bible?

This year we are adding an additional choice of Bible Study for the 1st - 5th Graders that will dive into the Bible to explain what the Bible is about, how it came to be and what is in the Bible. This class has DVD portions, group questions, games and take home activities. It is a lot of fun while remaining structured.

Bib

le

Tim

e Q

uiz

Kid

s

Bible Time Quiz Kids

Bible Time Quiz Kids is a fun and exciting game to help kids learn facts from the Bible along with scripture memorization for points. Bible Boys play against Gospel Girls accumulating group and individual points. This is a high energy game filled with fun activities along with facts and scripture memorization preparation throughout the week.

Wednesday Nights for Kids

Ages: Preschool - Kindergarten

Time: 6:15 - 7:15 pm

Where: Yellow Balloon Preschool Room (1st Floor near Chapel)

Ages: 1st Grade - 5th Grade

Time: 6:15 - 7:15 pm

Where: Circle J Ranch (2nd Floor on the Children’s Wing)

Ages: 2nd - 5th Grade

Time: 6:15 - 7:15 pm

Where: God’s Gym (2nd Floor on the Children’s Wing) Financial Peace University - 6:30-8:30 pm.

(Room 100, 101). Also offered Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday

Self –Talk, Soul Talk 6:15 pm Join us for a great book and a great discussion. Faciliated by Brenda Lindsey

First Place 4 Health Alumni Group 6:15 pm New group will start in January

Wednesday Nights for Youth There are several options for our Youth. Please check out Youth News on Page 11 for more information Option 1—Youth Disciple Bible Study with Mike Robinson Option 2—The Landing with Debbie Hardison and Gordon Heard Option 3—Looking at World Religions with Carol Cooper—6:15-7:15 PM

Other classes

A time to eat and fellowship with each other. A free will donation is accepted to help cover the cost of each meal. A great way to share time together before Wednesday night activities start.

Shalom Meal - 5:15 pm

Praise Team Rehearsals 6:15 - Adults 7:45– Youth (both in worship center)

Choirs 7:30 Heavenbound Choir (Chapel) 7:30 Genesis Ringers (Handbells)

P A G E 6

The First United Methodist Women of Owasso invite you to join us and enjoy elaborately decorated tables, hors d’oeuveres, sweets, and treats at the Festival of Tables—Creations For a Cause. This event will be held on Saturday, September 24th from 11:00-2:00 pm. It is a come and go event. Ticket prices are $8 in advance, and $10 the day of the event. Tickets are available for purchase in the church office, UMW members, or Donna Smylie (918-272-0134) or Sue Palmer (918-274-8990). All of the proceeds from this event will support local UMW missions. We hope that you’ll plan on attending and supporting the UMW!

United Methodist Women’s News

United Methodist Men’s News The United Methodist Men will host the September breakfast on Saturday September 10th at 8:30AM. After the breakfast we will be helping with the Pumpkin Patch by moving the stored equipment to the pavilion. We want all the men to be a part of this event and to share in the fun of preparing for the Patch. I encourage all men to come out for a wonderful breakfast and a great time of fun and fellowship.

We have an opportunity to start partnering with St. Paul United Methodist Church in Joplin to begin some work in providing restoration to the community. So on Saturday, September 10th, we will be taking a group up there to work and make some initial contact with the church. The work in Joplin will continue for many, many years to come and we want to support the communi-ty. We are not sure of the project we will be doing yet but it will be an all day event (Meeting at church early Saturday and returning Saturday evening). If you are interested in going, please contact Andy Henson at 918-272-5731 or outreach@fumcowasso.org. The cost for this mission is $20. This will help cover any expenses for supplies and such. Plan on bringing a few dollars to eat dinner in Joplin so we can support their economy as well. Deadline for signing up is Sunday, September 3rd. If you have any construction experience or any other skills that might be helpful, please let Andy know that as well. However, no experience is required to go and participate with us. This will be an ongoing mission opportunity so if you can’t come on the 10th, join us the next time.

Tornado Relief in Joplin ~ Saturday, September 10th

Awakening Our Hearts Retreat - Save the Date The church will be hosting a women's retreat on Friday, November 11th and Saturday November 12th. Put it on your schedule now. It will be from 6:30 pm to 9:15 pm on Friday and 8:30 am to 5:30 pm on Saturday. Lunch and snacks will be provided. The cost is only $15.00. The retreat is based on a book called Captivating written by John & Stasi Eldredge. The message of Captivating is this: Every woman was once a little girl. She longs to be swept up into a romance, to be the Beauty of the story. Those desires are far more than child's play. They are the secret to the feminine heart. Your heart matters more than anything else in all creation. The desires you had a little girl and the longings you still feel as a woman-they are telling you of the life God created you to live. He offers to come now as the Hero of your story, to rescue your heart and release you to live as a fully alive and feminine woman. A woman who is truly captivating. Come join us for the adventure. The retreat will be led by Sandi Paschal and Bonnie Cates. Their spouses are United Methodist ministers in Oklahoma and have felt led to put on this retreat in churches in Oklahoma. We are excited to be able to bring them to Owasso. More information will be coming soon. If you have questions please contact, Kelly Hoefer, Janice Heard, Bethany Wood or Priscilla Tiger

VIM Leader Training VIM Leaders Training is scheduled for Saturday, September 17th. We will be leaving the church at 6:45 am and returning around 6:00 pm. This training event is currently full but wanted to let you know about the next training happening on Saturday, November 5th in Oklahoma City. If you are interested in receiving training to be a VIM leader, please contact Andy Henson at the church office and he can get you pointed the right direction. Training is offered 3 times/year. Cost is $50 and our church is willing to help with the cost if you need assistance.

V O L U M E 1 4 , I S S U E 1 3 9

Thank you so much for allowing the North-east Transition Team (NETT) to have NETT camp in your beautiful facility. We were so blessed by the support of your congrega-tion. Their overwhelming kindness made camp a memorable experience for all of us. The cookies were delicious, the mes-sages were meaningful and the choir touched our hearts. Thank you so much. God Bless you all. ~ Gerry Heyel, NETT Director "Thank you to the UMW who made the "Nursery Baby Shower" a success. All of the gifts that were received are ap-preciated very much and will be well used." ~ The Nursery

A note of thanks!

P A G E 7

V O L U M E 1 4 , I S S U E 1 3 9

ACOLYTE TRAINING SCHEDULED Acolyte training is scheduled at 3 pm on Sunday, September 11th . Students entering third through fifth grades are invited to attend the training. Parents also are encouraged to attend the training. Serving as an acolyte gives children the opportunity to serve the church and participate in Sunday worship services. Acolytes are scheduled to serve during the traditional worship services at 8:20 a.m. and 11 a.m. Acolytes serve in the worship service by performing worship duties such as lighting and extinguishing altar candles. Our acolytes also assist the pastor when communion is served. In the Methodist tradition, lighting of the altar candles in the worship service symbolizes Jesus’ coming into the presence of our worshiping community. When the last altar candle is extinguished, the candle lighter carries the light out of the worship service to symbolize that Jesus Christ is going out into the world where we are called to serve as Christian believers. It also symbolizes that Jesus Christ is for all people everywhere. If you have any questions about the training, please contact Ellen Kershaw at 371-5532 or the church office.

FALL COLOR FOR YOUR GARDEN FROM YELLOW BALLOON

Do your flower beds look brown and crispy from our hot, dry summer? Replace those dead, wilted summer flowers with colorful fall mums *perennials+or pansies and violas *annuals+. Or just set out some pots of mums in anticipation of fall? Yellow Balloon Preschool is selling plants for its Fall Fund Raiser. Mums will be in 8” pots for $6.50 in a variety of colors. Pansies and violas will also be sold by the flat for $15 each flat. Orders will be taken from Sunday, August 28th until Sunday, September 18th. Please fill out your order form at the display outside the Worship Center and leave it in an envelope along with your check made out to Yellow Balloon Preschool. All or-ders must be prepaid. Your order can be picked up at the south side of the play-ground on Wednesday, October 12th from 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. OR from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. The plants will have buds just opening and be in full bloom within 2-3 weeks. Thank you for supporting Yellow Balloon Preschool as we seek to add to our playground and keep tuition rates down.

Rookie Ringers ~ September 10 It’s time to ring in the 2011 season! Basic Training will be held for beginners and Beyond the Basics classes for the more experienced ringer. We will be hosting the Rookie Ringers here in the Hogue Chapel and room 127/129 from 9:00 a.m.–2:30

p.m. If you have any questions or want to register to join in the fun, contact Steven Eddington at (918) 636-4608 or steven.eddington@att.net

Yellow Balloon Preschool Presents Child and Parenting Specialist, Diane Potts. Managing Your Child’s Challenging Behavior: Realistic Expectations In Your Preschool And School Aged Child. Please bring your child related questions for a conversation with Diane on Tuesday, October 11th at 7:00 pm in the Yellow Balloon Preschool Room. Please come and bring a friend. Put your name on the sign up sheet outside of Yellow Balloon if you need childcare. Questions? Contact Yellow Balloon at 918-272-1835

Upcoming Events - Check ’em Out!

FEED THE RAMS On Thursday, September 8, at 6:00 p.m, Owasso FUMC will be serving a dinner to the Owasso RAMS 10th through 12th grade football players and their coaches. This will be a fun time for all as we cele-brate the RAMS season. We are currently in the planning stages of this event and we are in need of volunteers to help prepare, serve and cleanup after the meal. We are expecting to serve around 150 people. We will be showing our support for the RAMS so if you have a RAMS shirt please wear it to the dinner. The RAMS colors are red, white and black, if you don’t have a RAMS shirt. Contact Taud Boatman at the church office or taudboatman@fumcowasso.org if you’re interested in helping.

Please plan to join us for fun, food and fellowship on Thursday, September 8th at 11:30 for our monthly Potluck Luncheon, followed by a program. Share with us your favorite main dish, side dish or dessert - We eat promptly at 11:30, so please have your food items in the kitchen a little earlier! We are so fortunate to have a musical presenta-tion by two of our very talented Trailblazers - Harriet Morrow (piano) and Roger White (harmonica)! Things you may not know about them; following is a brief bio from each of our special guests in their own words: “Born into a musical family in Michigan in 1936 as Harriet Ann Durfey, I had many happy days around the piano at family times taking my turn playing or singing duets with my sister. I took piano lessons as a teenager, played a glock-enspiel in the high school band and sang in the chorus. I later married and had seven children. Born in Christ in 1957, I continuously played in churches in Michigan, Texas and Oklahoma. I am currently playing at Meadowcreek UMC in Collinsville. In Oklahoma I played in chapels and the stockade at Fort Sill, accompanied Jr. High chorus’ and a strings group in Lawton. At Cameron University, I received a BA in music. I am MTNA certified, have taught private piano for many years and I am still teaching. On February 27th, 2010, Derrell Morrow and I were joined in Holy Matrimony and as they say, ‘the rest is history’”. Harriet Morrow “I got my first harmonica when I was eight or ten years old. I taught myself to play with the instructions that came with it. Played off and on for years and have never learned to read music, I just play by ear. Before E.J. and I moved to Owasso, we were members of the First Methodist Church in Joplin, Missouri. The pianist/organist, Gloria and I played duet specials at the first service. We enjoyed our time there. I also enjoyed playing with the group in this church that later grew into the Praise Band. E.J. and I have been in the Owasso area for sixteen years and live east of Collinsville on an airstrip called Sandridge Airpark. My hobby has been flying and building home built airplanes. E.J. and I were mar-ried in the old sanctuary in the Bartlesville Methodist Church on September 10, 1953, almost 58 years ago (they tore the old sanctuary down after we were married)! We have been blessed with three children, four grandchildren and I still love playing the harmonica”. Roger White On Thursday, September 22nd we will be traveling to Fort Gibson to tour the Fort Gibson Historical Site. Estab-lished in 1824, Fort Gibson served as a starting point for several military expeditions that explored the west and-sought peace between the tribes in the region. It was occupied through most of the Indian Removal period then abandoned in 1857. The post was reactivated during the Civil War. The army stayed through the Reconstruction and Indian Wars periods, combating the problem of outlaws and squatters. In 1890, the army abandoned Fort Gib-son for the last time. Visitors to the site can see a reconstruction of the early log fort as well as original buildings from the 1840s through 1870s (Admission fee $2.50). After the tour we will have lunch at the China King Super Buffet.

Come and join us, we will leave the church at 9:00am

P A G E 8

Trailblazers News

11:00am Kindergarten - 1st Grade Sunday School Class will close starting in September because our attendance is extremely low and most weeks, we do not have any kids attending at all. This is something that we thought may happen with the addition of the 11:11 Worship Service and the family friendly worship it provides and therefore, this is not viewed as a negative, but rather as a shift in our Sunday morning experience. We have found that more kids are attending Worship with their families and that has been a Blessing. We are aware that every child matures and grows at a different rate and therefore, we are inviting Kindergarteners that are not yet ready to change out of a Sunday School class during this hour to join our Yellow Balloon Sun-day School during the 11am hour. This class will now be available for Pre-K and Kindergarteners. We are open to reevaluating this change and look for-ward to receiving feedback. If it is determined that we should offer an 11:00am Sunday School Class for 1st Graders than we will be able to work towards that for January 2012. Please contact Corrina Robinson at the church office with any questions or concerns. Also, to keep updated on happening in children’s ministry, join Owasso FUMC Children’s Ministry on Facebook.

11 AM K-1st grade Sunday School News Choir News

Are you heavenbound? Is there music in your heart? Let the music in your heavenbound heart come out your mouth! The Heavenbound Choir is gearing up for Fall and Christmas. We rehearse Wednesday evenings at 7:15 and sing in the 8:20 and 11:00 services. Come be a part of the music worship and get the blessing from giving an offering of talent unto the Lord. Contact Bob Humble at 918-607-7070 or surprise us at rehearsal!

V O L U M E 1 4 , I S S U E 1 3 9

September Unit: Garden of Eden

Sunday School

Kindergarten Amber Hutchins

1st Grade Kevin Lane & Tri-na Haggadone

2nd Grade

3rd Grade Sevan Roberts

4th Grade Kris Criss

5th Grade Nicki Reedy

Leader Assistant Leader Assistant

Sept 4 Amy Pearce Jennifer Hill Shelly Rogers Kimberly Burrus

Sept 11 Amy Pearce Donna Haverty Shelly Rogers Lacey Moore

Sept 18 Amy Pearce Pam Weibel Shelly Rogers Jaclyn Smith

Sept 25 Amy Pearce Karyn Hoffman Shelly Rogers Jennifer Sahmaunt

September 11 18 25 Room Leaders

Wesley Castle (Drama) 3rd 2nd 1st

Brian & Melissa Welborn

Upper Room (Story)

4th 3rd 2nd Paul Downing

MASA (Computers)

5th 4th 3rd Jamie Harris

God’s Gym (Activity)

K 5th 4th Dana McConnell

Circle J Ranch (Arts & Crafts)

1st K 5th Traci Patton

UMC 12 (Movie Room)

2nd 1st K Ann Christie

Doo Wop Diner (Cooking Room)

N o W o r k s h o p n/a

Bible Memory Verse

The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

SEPT 4th Labor Day Weekend

1st, 2nd & 3rd will watch Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory

in the UMC12

Kindergarten - MASA

4th & 5th - God’s Gym

9:40 am Noah’s Ark Sunday School

Leaders: Ruthie Peacock

and

9:40am

4-Year-Old (pre-K)

11:00am

Pre-K - Kindergarten

Just a reminder...the Kindergarten - 1st Grade 11am Sunday School in the Circle J Ranch room has been closed.

Kindergarteners are welcome to join the Yellow Balloon Sunday School Room during the 11 o’clock hour for a Bible lesson.

1st Graders are invited to join the 2nd - 5th Graders in the 11:11 Worship Service. If you have any questions, please contact

Corrina Robinson.

KFC Club 4th & 5th Graders

SEPT 18th 12:30 - 2pm

Bring your favorite Pizza Topping and we will make Pizza

for lunch.

October Unit: Ruth

Sunday School

Kindergarten Amber Hutchins

1st Grade Kevin Lane & Tri-na Haggadone

2nd Grade

3rd Grade Sevan Roberts

4th Grade Kris Criss

5th Grade Nicki Reedy

Leader Assistant Leader Assistant

Oct 2 Amy Pearce Jennifer Hill Shelly Rogers Kimberly Burrus

Oct 9 Amy Pearce Donna Haverty Shelly Rogers Lacey Moore

Oct 16 Amy Pearce Pam Weibel Shelly Rogers Jaclyn Smith

Oct 23 Amy Pearce Karyn Hoffman Shelly Rogers

Oct 30 Amy Pearce Shelly Rogers Julia Griffin

October 9 16 23 Room Leaders 2 30

Wesley Castle (Drama)

5th 4th 3rd K 2nd

Upper Room (Story)

MASA (Computers)

K 5th 4th Karen McKibbin 1st 3rd

God’s Gym (Activity)

1st K 5th Dana McConnell 2nd 4th

Circle J Ranch (Arts & Crafts)

2nd 1st K 3rd 5th

UMC 12 (Movie Room)

3rd 2nd 1st 4th K

Doo Wop Diner (Cooking Room) 4th 3rd 2nd 5th 1st

N o W o r k s h o p n/a

Bible Memory Verse WHERE YOU GO, I WILL GO; WHERE YOU

LODGE, I WILL LODGE; YOUR PEOPLE SHALL BE MY PEOPLE, AND YOUR GOD MY GOD.

Ruth 1:16

9:40 am Noah’s Ark Sunday School

Leaders: Ruthie Peacock and Beth Foshee

9:40am

4-Year-Old (pre-K)

11:00am

Pre-K - Kindergarten

Visit the

Pumpkin

KFC Club 4th & 5th Graders

OCT 9th 12:30 - 2pm

Bring your lunch & Meet in the

Diner

OCT 30th 12:30 - 2pm

Halloween Party at the Patch

Dress-up in

Costume (no scary

costumes please).

V O L U M E 1 4 , I S S U E 1 3 9 P A G E 1 0

P A G E 1 1 V O L U M E 1 4 , I S S U E 1 3 9

IMPACT Youth Ministries September Activities

Sundays September 4th No afternoon activities due to Labor Day Weekend September 11th—Impact Youth—12:00-2:00 PM Youth Lunch (bring $2.00) and then we’ll have an educational event called QPR: QPR stands for Question, Persuade and Refer, an emergency mental health gatekeeper training intervention that teaches lay and professional gatekeepers to recognize and respond positively to someone exhibiting suicide warning signs and behaviors. Like CPR, QPR uses a “chain of survival” approach in which the gatekeeper learns to recognize early suicide warning signs, Question their meaning to determine suicide intent or desire, Persuade the person to accept or seek help, and Refer the person to appropriate resources. We will be offering QPR Training for youth and adults on Sunday, September 11th from 1:00-2:00 PM. This is a GREAT program which teaches us not only words to respond with but also words NOT to use…The Youth Session will be held in the Great Room as a part of our afternoon youth events. The Adult session will be held in Room 121/123. Please try to attend this great educational event which will happen as National Suicide Prevention Week comes to an end for 2011. September 18th—Impact Youth—12:00-4:00 PM (note...we go longer today) Progressive Swim Party (meet at the church with $8.00 and your swimsuits and towels (no bikini’s). Parent help as drivers is greatly appreciated! September 25th—12:00-2:00 PM—Bring $2.00 for lunch and stay for an activity!

Wednesdays RENEW begins September 7th and there are many options for youth to be involved! Option 1—Youth Disciple Bible Study with Mike Robinson—6:15-7:15 PM If you’re looking for a Bible Study where you are in God’s Word and learning a lot from it, then this one’s for you! Option 2—The Landing with Debbie Hardison and Gordon Heard—6:00-8:00 PM This is CR for youth...if you have a hurt, habit or hang-up, this is a great group for you! Option 3—Looking at World Religions with Carol Cooper—6:15-7:15 PM We’ll look at other religions and denominations with open hearts and minds knowing and believing that Christ is the Truth. Also on Wednesday’s...Youth Praise Team at 7:30 P M and Genesis Handbells at 7:30 PM. Special Events Tuesday’s at Panera—6:00 AM That’s right, it is six in the morning—for all Sr. High youth who want to be in a book study. We’ll begin with The Barbarian Way on Tuesday, September 6th. You need to bring your own money if you want anything to eat while at Panera! Join us for a great book and discussion time and a way to start your day off with God. Saturday, September 24th—9:00 AM-4:00 PM Help set up the Pumpkin Patch! If you plan to attend Youth Force or another mission trip next year, you need to try and be at this set up day. The Patch helps the youth in missions with many costs. Lunch is provided. REMINDER...sign up to get texts message reminders and alerts at http://mobile-text-alerts.com/fumcowasso

Thank you so much for your outpouring of love on Youth Sunday to me...It has been an honor to work at Owasso FUMC for the past 10 years and your love offering was an unexpected gift and words cannot express how grateful we are. Keith, Will and I love this church so much...it’s not just my place of employment but it’s our church home and family. You’ve always been there for us—through the birth of our son, the loss of Keith’s mom, and Keith’s several surgeries, not to mention the small stuff. I don’t know how we could ever say thanks to you for all you do for us. So, please just know we are ever grateful to serve alongside you in this wonderful church home! All our love, Carol, Keith & Will Cooper

You’re Invited to the Seventh Annual Sunday Brunch Fundraiser

September 11, 2011—7:45-11:00 a.m. Meal: breakfast casseroles, muffins, biscuits, juice &

coffee Love Donations will be accepted to help fund Scholar-ships for graduating seniors of Owasso FUMC

and Owasso High School.

All Youth and Adults are Invited to come back at 1:00 PM for QPR Training. This is a GREAT training for all—come find out how to help someone in a crisis situation (what to say and what NOT to say), plus find out how to help prevent suicide from impacting lives you know and love! ADULT SESSION—1:00-2:00 PM in Room 121/123 YOUTH SESSION—1:00-2:00 PM in the Great Room QPR stands for Question, Persuade and Refer, an emergency mental health gatekeeper training intervention that teaches lay and profession-al gatekeepers to recognize and respond positively to someone exhibit-ing suicide warning signs and behaviors. Like CPR, QPR uses a “chain of survival” approach in which the gate-keeper learns to recognize early suicide warning signs, Question their meaning to determine suicide intent or desire, Persuade the person to accept or seek help, and Refer the person to appropriate resources.

REMINDER Ski Trip Payment of $75.00/person due Sep-tember 4th! If you haven’t gotten your $50.00/person deposit in, that needs to be paid also. THANKS!!!

First United Methodist Church 13800 E. 106th St N Owasso, Oklahoma 74055 Office: (918) 272-5731 Fax: (918) 272-2451 Main Church E-Mail: fumc@fumcowasso.org Communications: communications@fumcowasso.org Audio Ministry: audioministry@fumcowasso.org Video Ministry: videoministry@fumcowasso.org Website: www.fumcowasso.org Return Service Requested

Non-Profit

Organization

U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Owasso, OK74055

PERMIT #21PERMIT #21

Bishop...............................................Robert Hayes District Superintendent...................George Warren Senior Pastor.........................................Chris Tiger Associate Pastor..............................Taud Boatman Administrative Secretary...............Susan Moreland Assistant Secretary……………….Dana McConnell Financial Secretary........................Karen McKibbin Youth Director....................................Carol Cooper Assistant Youth Director.................Mike Robinson Dir. Of Children’s Ministry...........Corrina Robinson Dir. Cont. Worship and Outreach…..Andy Henson Choir Director......................................Bob Humble Organist.............................................Linda Cooper Nursery Director..............................Brandi Foshee Custodians.............................Zac and Sara Green

Regularly Scheduled Events

See your Sunday bulletin for any updates/changes.

Sunday 8:20; 9:40;11:00; 11:11 am Worship Services 9:20 am Fellowship Time in Narthex 9:40 & 11:00 am Sunday School 4:00– 6:00 pm Jr. High Youth/Sr.High Youth (Youth Area) 4:45 Men’s 12 Step (129) 6:00– 9:00 pm Celebrate Recovery

Monday 7:00 pm CR Women’s Step Study (127) 6:30 pm Love Circle (3

rd Monday—out to eat)

7:00 pm Support Group for Parents w/Special Needs Kids (Lodge) (4th Monday)

Tuesday 9:30 am JOY/Faith Circle (2

nd Tuesday - 121/123)

1:00 pm Yarn Ministry (2nd

and 4th

Tuesdays - 101) 6:30 pm Hope Circle (3

rd Tuesday - 121/123)

6:30 pm Ladies 12 Step (127)

Wednesday 9:30 am Women’s Bible Study (101) 6:15 pm Gospel Choir (Chapel) 6:15pm Praise Team Practice (WC) 6:30 pm First Place 4 Health (129) 7:15pm Heavenbound Choir Practice (Chapel) 7:30pm Youth Praise Band Practice (WC)

Thursday 10:00am Covenant Care (2nd Thur. Every Other Month) 11:30am Trailblazers Luncheon (2nd Thursday - Chapel) 6:30pm Believers Bell Choir Practice (121/123) 7:00-8:30 pm Hurting Hearts (1st Thursday of the Month) 7:00pm FUI (2nd Thursday - 127)

Friday

9:00am –12:00pm Fridays w/Miss Shelly (101)

Saturday 8:30am UMM Breakfast (1

st Saturday) (121/123)

The Owasso Observer is published monthly. Deadline for articles is the 4th Sunday of the month. Any questions or articles can be sent to communications @fumcowassso.org

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