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So far Michael Davison has created 188 blog entries.

Oklahoma Clergy at The Gathering

The emphasis placed on clergy total well-being was great. The Gathering workshops offered practical tips for clergy to reclaim their areas of our lives that we sometimes neglect. Also, seeing new and old faces was a blessing.

(Dwayne Rodgers, Wildewood Christian Church Oklahoma City)

The name of this event says it best of all, The Gathering.  There is something about colleagues and friends that have a shared connection through a calling by God to get together and talk about that connection.  It brings me great joy, support, strength, understanding, and a plethora more positive feelings to walk into the first meeting and see familiar faces of old friends as well as the opportunity to make new ones.   One morning, while waiting on my bagels in a small bagel shop off the street, the man sitting next to me struck up a conversation.  During that conversation he asked why I was in DC.  I told him for a conference of clergy and he said him too.  Turns out he is a Disciples minister in Nebraska.  On top of that, his name was Michael too.  Now I have a new face to look for at the next gathering.  Indeed it was a special time of being together, learning something new, and keeping/making connections. All of these components form the Gathering, a way to continue with more confidence the journey of ministry.  Hope to see you there at the next Gathering!

(Michael Oberlender, First Christian Church Chickasha)

I appreciate time to be reminded that taking care of  myself is worth time and effort.  I loved hearing 400 plus ministers singing together in worship and filling the sanctuary with praise.  It was a “work” setup time of reconnecting with friends in ministry.

(Tara Dew, First Christian Church El Reno)

Shelley and I recently attended an event called “The Gathering” by Pension Fund of the Christian Church.  The event included three outstanding speakers and the blessed opportunity to attend worship without being responsible for ANYTHING.  It was well attended, and I was pleased to visit with some old seminary friends.  (I don’t know how “they” got so old so quickly!)  I learned about some great programs of the Pension Fund to help ministers and their families navigate the challenges of doing ministry and taking care of your own mental, physical, and financial health. The schedule also allowed ample time to enjoy Washington, DC.  We enjoyed the new African-American Smithsonian museum, a great lobster roll, and a double-decker night bus tour on our own.  I will be monitoring Pension Fund communications closely to make sure we do not miss their next gathering event.

(John and Shelley Regan, First Christian Church Edmond)

The 2024 Gathering offered attendees only – three nurturing growth tracks to pick from.  The Pension Fund will utilize trained staff and other ministers to act as facilitators around the subjects of: 1)mental health, 2)physical health, and 3)financial health. The tracks will meet on a monthly basis for 1 year to 18 months.  I look forward to participating with others to find ways to nurture ourselves as we continue the act of serving congregations.  The overall purpose of this experience is to expand; Holy friendship, Validate our past, Hold space for us in the present, and; Help us midwife a vision for the future.

(Julia Jordan Gillett, Western Oaks Christian Church Oklahoma City)

2024-10-07T13:53:50-05:00Oct 7, 2024|Clergy News|0 Comments
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Generación: DISCIPULAR – SERVIR – CELEBRAR

LA OBRA HISPANA
(Hispanic Labor)

Pastor Jose and Rev. Maria Garza attended the Obra Hispana Assembly this summer (June 20-22).  The Assembly was held in Kansas City, MO.  Pastor Jose serves Iglesia Cristiana El Shaddai in Enid.  Maria translated the words below from the Obra Hispana website (www.obrahispana.org).

La Obra Hispana is a group of Spanish/Bilingual churches in unity and covenant, hence the phrase, “Somos Uno” (we are one), with the same interest, culture, diverse worship, different languages, and different theologies centered in Christ.

We are one theological and social voice to the Hispanic people with the responsibility to respond to the needs, supporting, affirming their dignity, and challenges of the Hispanic communities in U.S.A and Canada.

La Obra Hispana is governed by its constitution and bylaws operating under the Christian Church Disciples of Christ. La Obra Hispana holds an assembly every two years.

Click Here for a short FB Reel to see more images of the event.

Garza Family

2024-08-13T09:21:57-05:00Aug 11, 2024|Congregations, Events|Comments Off on Generación: DISCIPULAR – SERVIR – CELEBRAR
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Meet the Regional Youth Council

The Church today and tomorrow

The Regional Youth Council (RYC) serves on behalf of Oklahoma Disciples’ children and youth. As the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Oklahoma evolves and adapts to address the issues and definition of community of our time, the RYC represents the best of lessons from the past, is active in the present, imagines a future for the Church’s youth and children’s ministry, and sets a path toward that future. RYC members serve a two-year term and often a third year.  They represent congregations that are active in Regional life through their participation in camp, retreats, leadership, and giving to the Disciples Mission Fund and other special day offerings.

Derek, Leah Grace, Jonah, and Luke are returning to RYC. Darby, Tabitha, and Brooke are beginning their first year on RYC.  They applied to serve this spring and their applications were affirmed by RYC graduating seniors and adult sponsors in May. RYC applications are available from February 1 to April 15 each year.  RYC members are installed at CYF Conference.

RYC is guided by several adults who volunteer alongside these young leaders.
RYC Sponsors: Eula, Shannon, Tara, and Michael.

Derek
Crown Heights Christian Church
Oklahoma City

I am a senior at Piedmont High School. I play the clarinet in the Pride of Piedmont marching band. This is my last year as a member of RYC. I will be 18 on October 9th. I have my own car. This summer I went to South Padre Island for vacation. My things to do for fun this summer were go bowling, swimming, playing video games, and just relaxing.   

Jonah
First Christian Church
El Reno

I’m a junior at El Reno High and play baseball. I love getting involved by serving in my community with the Blessing Baskets organization. I also love spending time with my family and my two dogs. RYC has given me many opportunities to serve as a leader and have fun with the rest of the Oklahoma Region.

Leah Grace
Forest Park Christian Church
Tulsa

I’m a senior this year and I’m so glad to be a part of Regional Youth Council! This is my second year on Regional Youth Council. I’m also a section leader for my school’s marching band. RYC really gave me an opportunity to learn and showcase leadership skills that can help me in all settings, and I’m so excited for this year!


Luke
First Christian Church
Duncan

I am a Senior at Empire City Public Schools.  I joined the Regional Youth Council in 2023.  I’ve attended church camps since I was 7 years old.  I love science fiction, my dog, and showing goats. I’m a Junior Deacon at First Christian Church, Duncan, OK.   I would be happy to talk with you about Star Wars, video games, and movie trivia. In my spare time I enjoy playing video games, draw pictures, play with my dog, care for the farm animals and annoying my younger sister.  Regional Youth Council is awesome!

Brooke
Central Christian Church
Enid

Church camp is one of my favorite things and I look forward to every summer. I love it and cannot wait for next year to see my friends from all over the State again. I’m a sophomore at Enid High School. I love singing and I am a part of my high school’s concert choir. Most of my time is spent watching sports because I am an athletic trainer for all athletics at Enid High School. In my free time I do arts, crafts, read at times, and like every other teenager sit on my phone. I look forward  to serving on Regional Youth Council this year.

First Year Member of RYC.

Darby
Crown Heights Christian Church
Oklahoma City

I am a sophomore at Piedmont high school and play flute in the band, the Pride of Piedmont.  I played softball for ten years before I hung up my cleats to focus completely on music.  I have a dog named Jewel and she has an Instagram account that I run! In my free time I like to paint, draw, or watch videos on my phone. My favorite food is grilled salmon and I will eat it anywhere I can. 

First Year Member of RYC

Tabitha
Harvard Ave. Christian Church
Tulsa

I attend Harvard Avenue Christian Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I am 16 years old, and a rising junior at Booker T Washington High School. I am a member of the BTW swim team, National Honor Society, and the Teen Advisory Board for the
Laboratory for the Adolescent Brain. I enjoy reading, writing, and working with my Youth Group.

First Year Member of RYC.

2024-08-15T11:55:29-05:00Aug 11, 2024|Congregations, Youth|Comments Off on Meet the Regional Youth Council
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Regional Assembly at Sea

Where have you met Jesus today?

The question of meeting Jesus anywhere. I feel like I have met him often as I’ve gone about my daily life. For me, it’s not a question of “will I?” It’s a question of “when.”

Thinking about the keynotes, what idea(s) are you taking home from RA @ Sea?

The power of baptism in helping people feel welcomed and included.

When did you most clearly sense the presence of God?

Doing ministry in the Word, so many sermons and teaching in the Word.

Watching the sun rise from the deck of the ship over the vastness of the water.

Overlooking the ocean, unable to see anything but water. The expanse of God mirrored in nature!

What story or stories will you remember and tell about RA @ Sea at your church?

The great fellowship and bonding we had and learning things about people I never knew.

Our Thanks . . .

We are thankful for the words and presence of Rev. Allen Harris, Regional Minister of the Christian Church in Ohio, who offered our keynotes and sermons.

We thank our Disciples siblings in faith in Ohio for gifting Oklahoma Disciples the time and talents of your Regional Minister.  Click here to download a pdf of the Rev. Harris’ keynotes and sermons.

We thank these Partners in Ministry cruising: Rev. Terry Ewing (Phillips Theological Seminary), Rev. Rosario Ibarra (Disciples Church Extension Fund), Eric Gray (Oklahoma Disciples Foundation)

We thank Ms Jacque Bass, former Moderator of the Christian Church in Oklahoma, who worked on this event with Carnival and the planning team since the Regional Assembly 2022.  Jacque wrangled all the ideas and details before, during, and after RA @ Sea.  If you need a travel professional, we recommend her at Jacque B Travels.

We thank the planning team: Jacque Bass, Pam Holt, Colton Lott, Elaine Howsley, Joshua Bell, Randy Kuss, and Michael Davison.

RA @ Sea

July 11: Embarkation Day
Oklahoma Disciples Opening Reception 5pm-7pm
Disciples Fellowship and Introductions: Games, Raffles, Music, and Laughs

July 12: Sea Day
Oklahoma Disciples 10am-Noon
Morning Coffee and Snacks
Keynote, “Meeting Jesus Beside The Water: The Call To Honest Conversations, Acknowledged Ambiguity, and Bold Action”
Worship, “The Waters Of Baptism Convict Us, Cleanse Us, & Call Us To Conversion”

July 13: Port Day in Cozumel

July 14: Sea Day
Oklahoma Disciples 10am-Noon
Morning Coffee and Snacks
Keynote, “Meeting Jesus On and In The Water: The Call To Trust In Authority, Imagine Transformation, and Be Willing To Be Redeemed.”
Worship, “The Waters Of Baptism Collect Us, Claim Us, & Commission Us”

July 15: Debarkation Day – Be safe going home
Let’s sail again someday.

2024-08-15T10:20:55-05:00Aug 6, 2024|Regional News|Comments Off on Regional Assembly at Sea
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VBS Around the Region

First Christian Church Stroud

Forest Park Christian Church Tulsa

First Christian Church Cherokee

Vacation Bible School is a summer staple for many of our congregations.  VBS was once a primary evangelism tool for congregational growth. While that remains a byproduct of VBS, it is also affordable childcare, a healthy snack or meal, a Sunday school intensive, and, for some unchurched or de-churched children or youth, it is an introduction to following Jesus and the hospitality of Christians.

Here are a few photos from around the Region.  If you have a photo of your congregation’s VBS that you have permission to share, please  email Rev. Michael Davison.

First Christian Church Luther

2024-07-09T09:45:29-05:00Jul 8, 2024|Congregations, Youth|Comments Off on VBS Around the Region
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Family Camp Aug 30-Sept 1

What is Family Camp?

Family Camp at Camp Christian (near Chouteau) is an introduction, or refresher, to a Disciples’ church camp experience that blends play, prayer, study, worship, and service. 

Your family will be assigned a room in Gibson Lodge or one side of a cabin, or they may share space in Walter Scott.

What does it cost?

$125 per adult or youth grades 6-12

$80 per child age 4 to 5th grade

Under 4 free

Housing, 6 meals, program, & t-shirt

Who is Directing Camp?

Co-Directors

Rev. Darlene Martinez
Rev. Anna Hubbard
Rev. Michael Davison

Questions?  Contact Rev. Michael Davison
(mdavison at okdisciples dot org)

What happens at Family Camp?

Play, Prayer, Study, Worship, & Service

Hiking

Games

Arts & Crafts

Singing

Prayer

Scripture

Worship

Labyrinth

Relax

Pool and Kayak (weather permitting)

Campfire

and plenty of family time

2024-07-07T11:12:31-05:00Jul 7, 2024|Youth|Comments Off on Family Camp Aug 30-Sept 1
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Church Camp Season Begins June 3rd

Our volunteers are making final plans to welcome campers this summer.   Chi Rho Camp kicks off a busy June.  We deeply value your prayers and ask you to keep our directors, counselors, and campers in your thoughts during June as they explore the ways humans and all creation are connected by God’s love.   Visit the Families & Youth webpage to see photos from each camp this summer.

The writers of the camp curriculum, “Linked by Love,” offer this overview.

We see God’s love in close friends and family – those we are born into and those we choose along the way. We see God in quiet moments where we are present with each other and in acts of profound grace when we have been far apart. We hear God in life-guiding and life-changing words of truth from those who know and love us. We know that such love links our lives, teaching us about commitment, intimacy, grace, and faith. As we seek to create and strengthen life-giving relationships, we remember that such love flows from God, links us all together, and we give thanks.

There is more curriculum than days of camp. Here are the scriptures that our directing teams will choose from: Colossians 3:12-14, Luke 10:38-24, Job 2:11-13, Luke 15:11-32, Exodus 18:5-24, Philemon 1:8-17,
1 John 4:7-9;19

Church Camp 2024 Check-In & Pick-Up Info by Camp

Chi Rho Camp: June 3-7

  • Check-In Monday June 3rd: 2:00 – 2:45 pm

  • Pick-Up Friday, June 7th: 12 (noon) – arrive between 11:30 am – 12:00 pm

CYF Conference: June 17-22
(charter bus service from FCC Edmond to Tawakoni)

  • Check-In @ First Christain Church Edmond, Monday, June 17: 12:45-1:15 pm

  • Bus departs @ 1:30 pm sharp

  • Pick-Up @ First Christain Church Edmond, Saturday, June 22: 2:00 – 2:30 pm

Discovery Camp: June 21-23

  • Check-In Friday, June 21: 1:00 – 1:45 pm

  • Pick-Up Sunday, June 23: 12:30 pm – arrive between 12:00 – 12:30 pm

Junior Camp: June 24-28

  • Check-In Monday, June 24: 2:00 – 2:45 pm

  • Pick-Up Friday, June 28: 12 (noon) – arrive between 11:30 am – 12:00 pm

2024-06-27T13:37:31-05:00May 22, 2024|Youth|Comments Off on Church Camp Season Begins June 3rd
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Summer Camp Registration Update

There is still time to register for a church camp experience this summer. Our regular rates (fees) for camp begin today, and all our camps still have space available. So far, 184 campers from 25 congregations have registered for a camp. Visit the Families and Youth page to see if your congregation is sending campers and to learn more about registering for a camp.

Sponsor an Adult Camp Counselor This Year
The Comm for Children, Youth, & Young Adults is seeking congregations to sponsor the cost of providing adult counselors for our 2024 camps.  All the adults that attend church camp volunteer their time.  The Region passes along the cost of camp counselors to families and congregations.   Could your congregation sponsor an adult or two this year?  Contact Rev. Bill Hemm (hemmco22 at gmail dot com), Co-Chair of the CYYA, or Rev. Michael Davison (mdavison at okdisciples dot org) for more information.  Ready to make a donation today?  You can do that through the Region’s Givelify page.  Choose your gift, and on the next page, choose “Church Camp 2024.”   Thank you for supporting our missional ministry for children and youth.

2024-04-25T09:42:35-05:00Apr 25, 2024|Youth|Comments Off on Summer Camp Registration Update
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Camp Registration Is Open

300 Campers from 30 Congregations

Help us reach our goal this summer.  We want to grow our program to reach 300 campers representing 30 Oklahoma Disciples congregations this summer.  Have you registered a camper for Church Camp this summer?  All the Region sponsored camps are during June.  The Region has recruited directors who are recruiting counselors to serve at Chi Rho Camp, CYF Conference, Discovery Camp, and Junior Camp.  All of our directors and counselors are volunteers from our Oklahoma congregations.  And, the past few years we have been selected to welcome a Disciples Peace Fellowship Intern to Chi Rho Camp and CYF Conference.

The Commission for Children, Youth, and Young Adults (CYYA) oversees our camp program and retreat ministry.  The CYYA is seeking financial support for the camp program.  We pass on the cost of our adult volunteers to each camper, making our camp fees higher. If your congregation doesn’t send campers or you don’t have campers to send or adults to volunteer, you can be part of the summer church camp program by sponsoring (paying) for an adult volunteering their time.  We will accept gifts until May 1st, then take the balance, do some math, and apply an additional discount to all campers registered by April 24th.  Would you like to be involved?  Contact Rev. Michael Davison (mdavison at okdisciples dot org) or Rev. Bill Hemm, co-chair of CYYA (hemmco22 at gmail dot com).

3 More Opportunities

  • Regional Assembly @ Sea – July 11-15
    There are still cabins available as Oklahoma Disciples sail together and Meet Jesus on the Water
  • Water Weekend @ Lake Texoma – July 19-21
    This weekend for grades 8-12, is a partnership with First Christian Church, Sulphur.
  • Family Camp @ Camp Christian – August 31-Sept 2
    A weekend retreat for families of all sizes and ages.  Come away and be introduced to our camp program, or remember when you were a camper.
2024-03-27T16:33:15-05:00Feb 27, 2024|Youth|Comments Off on Camp Registration Is Open
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Looking Back: 2023 Reconciliation Grants

Over the past two years, the Commission for Faith and Action has funded $20,00.00 of Reconciliation grant requests.  This has helped congregations expand their reconciliation reach and imagination through educational and service trips, support for Caminante, leadership development, multi-church VBS, musicals, meals, relationships with first responders, and integration of neurotypical and non-neurotypical persons, and Careportal ministry.  The grants have been so successful that the yearly Reconciliation Special Offering has not kept up with demand.  The gifts by Oklahoma congregations each September to this special offering are divided 50/50 with the denomination so that Oklahomans are supporting the denomination’s Reconciliation Ministry, and that of congregations in our Region.

This spring, the Comm. for Faith In Action will publish a “Reconciliation Series” on the Region’s podcast.  Each episode will focus on one of our 2023 Grant recipients.

Thank you for supporting our Reconciliation Ministries.

2023 Grants

  • Enid Welcome Table
  • Caminante Boca Chica
  • Enid Joint Disciples 5 Church Vacation Bible School
  • FCC Stillwater Jamaica Mission Trip
  • Central Christian Church, Christian Church of the Covenant, University Place Christian Church Enid, Hero Fund
  • FCC Midwest City Careportal
  • Central Christian Church, Enid, Teen Neurotypical / Non-Neurotypical Integration

2022 Grants

  • FCC Claremore, First American Museum Trip
  • In the Spirit Christian Church, Tulsa, Emerging Young Leaders Justice
  • FCC El Reno, No Justice, No Peace Opera
  • FCC Midwest City, Christmas for Others
  • Caminante Boca Chica
  • Enid Welcome Table
  • Enid Joint Disciples 5 Church Vacation Bible School
  • Central Christian Church, Christian Church of the Covenant, University Place Christian Church Enid, Hero Fund

Learn more about what these congregations are doing in their community.  You can download the 2023 Grant Reports in PDF format.

2022 Grant Reports in PDF Format

2024-02-12T11:13:37-06:00Feb 12, 2024|Faith in Action|Comments Off on Looking Back: 2023 Reconciliation Grants
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Christian Church in Oklahoma (Disciples of Christ)

PO Box 891140
Oklahoma City, OK 73189-1140
Phone 405.528.3577

Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

1099 N. Meridian St., #700
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Phone 317.635.3100
www.disciples.org

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