'New Christians' event is Aug. 6 in Ardmore

Bishop Scott Jones of the Kansas Area, second from left, is greeted at the “New Christians” evangelism training event on May 14 at Abiding Harvest UMC in Broken Arrow. Bishop Jones was featured speaker. Welcoming him are, from left, Bob Pierson; Chris Buskirk, pastor at Abiding Harvest; Donna Larrison; and Nancy Buskirk.

The next regional training event is Aug. 6 at Ardmore-First UMC for the "New Christians" evangelism initiative.

Elaine Heath will give the keynote. Also presenting will be Jessica Moffatt Seay, First Church’s senior pastor.

The day’s schedule offers a plenary and multiple workshops.

Future training is set for Sept. 24 at Pryor-First, with leader Bob Crossman; Oct. 15 at Woodward-First, with Ed Kail; and Nov. 19 in the Lawton District.

To register, email Chairman Bob Pierson, bpierson@tulsacoxmail.com.

Bishop records prayer videos

Other efforts within the New Christians program continue as well. Approximately every two months, a new video message by Bishop Hayes is posted at www.okumc.org/NewChristians.  These messages can be used in your church services. Directions are provided to upload a high-resolution version for such purposes.

Weekly prayer series

Also online is a weekly prayer series developed by one of the 14 committees within the "New Christians" effort. All clergy and laity are encouraged to pray for Oklahoma’s churches by uniting weekly using a specific Bible verse, spiritual focus, and prayer.

Here are Scripture selections upcoming in July.

• Week of July 10—I will cause your name to be celebrated in all generations; therefore the peoples will praise you forever and ever. (Psalm 45:17)

• Week of July 17—Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. (Matthew 13:43)

• Week of July 24—O give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, make known his deeds among the peoples. (Psalm 105:1)

• Week of July 31—And all ate and were filled. (Matthew 14:20)

Helpful resources

The "New Christians" section of the Conference website continues to be updated with additional tools and tips. The task force is a part of the Discipleship Ministries Team.

www.okumc.org/NewChristians