A publication of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Tulsa Vol. 18, Number 23 December 6, 2013

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org

The First Christian Church VISION (USPS 012-958) is

published semi-monthly for its members by First

Christian Church at 913 South Boulder Ave., Tulsa,

OK, 74119-2097. Periodicals postage paid at Tulsa,

OK. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VISION,

913 S. Boulder Ave., Tulsa, OK 74119-2097.

Serving Schedule Sunday, December 8

Elder Prayers: 10:30 Mike Miller, offering; Meredith Miller, communionScripture Reader: Sandra LewisElder of the Week: (December 9) James HowardCommunion Preparation: Duska VogelDeacons serving communion: Raylene Barclay, Christy Brooks, Don Brooks, Jim

Freeman, Mary Garner, Joyce Kendall, Bobbie Lewis, Barbara Pollard, Caleb Allen.Greeters: James and Mary Lynn HowardFlowers for Sunday, December 8: The flowers are given by J. Alan & Mary Lou Gibson in celebration of their 53rd wedding anniversary on December 10th.Flower delivery week of December 8: Bill Osteen

Serving Schedule Sunday, December 15Elder Prayers: 9:00 Rihab Garner, offering; Bob Garner, communionScripture Reader: James HowardElder of the Week: (December 16) Kay ThompsonCommunion Preparation: Sandra LewisDeacons serving communion: Raylene Barclay, Christy Brooks, Don Brooks, Jim

Freeman, Mary Garner, Joyce Kendall, Bobbie Lewis, Barbara Pollard, CalebAllen.

Greeters: Raylene Barclay and Ruthie WildmanFlowers for Sunday, December 15: The flowers are given by Carolyn Dyer in

memory of her mother, Hazel Wiemann. Her 100th birthday would have been onDecember 18th. The flowers are also in memory of her son, Steven Dyer, Jr. andher grandson, Richard Dyer, Jr.

Flower delivery week of December 15: Helen and Bill Pummill

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING - SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22After both worship services to approve 2014 Budget

Aga-Patrian

Next Sunday: Our focus will be on thechildren: we feed them breakfast at 10:00AM (Jane will send out an e-mail for foodsign-up), and we will have a craft table atthe Advent Festival, Noon - 2:30.Last Sunday: Romans 8: 18-30Class Concerns: Pray for all our classmembers who couldnʼt be with us today.9 Present. RG

Double Ring

Next Sunday: Bob RorschachLast Sunday: Clarke Kendall taught aboutthe parable of the Good Samaritan.Visitors: Wally and Darla Cox, Nickʼsparents.Upcoming Events: Christmas party onDecember 16th (Mon.) 6:00 pm, FH.Celebrations: Charles Crewsʼ birthday34 Present. JAGHomebuilders

Next Sunday: Richard Lawson will teach.Last Sunday: Carol Lawson gave ourlesson.Upcoming Events: Jazz to the World -donʼt miss it! Dec. 5th at 7:00 PM. Also,Homebuilders Lunch at First Watch onFroday, Dec. 6 at 11:30Celebrations: Hope you had a happyThanksgiving - we are thankful for all ourblessings.Class Concerns: Barbara Griffinʼs family;so many others!16 Present. LS

Sojourners

Next Sunday: Jeremiah, Chapter 8.Upcoming Events: Advent Festival nextSunday - we have a booth. ChristmasParty December 15 after church at EthelBrownʼs.Celebrations: Celeste Barrowʼs birthday6 Present. CD

Sunday

School

Class

News

9:00 am Traditional, Sanctuary

10:00 am Breakfast for Children

10:15–11:00 am Sunday School

11:15 am Common Ground

Fellowship Hall

6:00 pm The Loft

(1st

and 3rd

Sundays)

Page 8

As we concluded our JYF session on the 5 Elements of

Worship, the children were able to decorate their own

personal apron to wear for Thanksgiving. As we learned

about Worship each session the children cooked and

prepared a food item to eat or take home to their family.

Our intention was that as the children had this ‘hands-on-

experience’ they would retain more of the information

we were teaching and be able to share that with their

family (along with the

foods and recipes).

The finale was great

fun as they colored and

used their individual

artistic skills to express

themselves.

They have been

encouraged to wear their aprons as a reminder to be

helpful and serve others through the holidays.

Children’s Ministry Concludes Hands-on Study of

According to Director of Children’s

Ministries, Bevery Vale Brown, the Advent Fes-

tival on December 8 is a family-oriented event

with food, fun and fellowship. “ Parents can

work with kids in making the various projects,”

says Brown. “ It takes about an hour and a half

to complete them.” The activites follow a de-

licious lunch prepared by Rev. Carol Lawson,

and concludes at

2:30. The follow-

ing week is Santa’s Workshop on Dec 22. JYF is also

having a Christmas lunch and party on that day. Some-

thing new to First Christian’s Christmas traditions, the

“Sparkle Tree.” The tree is hung with dozens of white

stars upon which are written suggestions for service

and caring to others. Invite your friends & family to

FCC!

Christmas Celebrations Continue with

Advent Activities

December 8

10 – 10:30 Breakfast for

everyone

10:30 – 11:15 Sunday School

11:15 – 12 Worship

12:30 - 2:30 Lunch for all

Advent activities after lunch

Booths:

· Cookies Decorating & Eating

· Badge Making

· Art Projects

· Goodie Bags

· Visit & Photo with Santa

· Barbeque Sandwich Lunch

· Candy Cane Crafts

· Christmas Tree Decorations

Christmas stories every 30 minutes

and sing-along Christmas Music

an Old-fashioned “Advent Festival”

Five Elements of Worship Program

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org Page 7Page 2

Prayers and Cares

HOSPITAL

St. John Medical Center: Jarrod Elmore (no visitors or calls)

BIRTHS

Cayluhm Leon Dawson (11 lbs 22 in) 12-02-13 to Amanda & Jedidiah Dawson

DEATHS

Barbara Griffin - Memorial Service, Jan. 7 at 11 AM in the Chapel

HEALTH

John and Donna Ackenhausen

Kay Bauter

Shirley Bennett, cancer

Mardell Campbell

Jerry Carlton

Pat and Jim Dalby

Jeff Daniel

Della Davidson

Dollie Dorough, back surgery

Linda Douglas

David and Beth Dunning

Carolyn Dyer

Jarrod Elmore

Krista English, cancer

Jerry Gay

Les and Marcia Hames

Hope Harder

OTHER

Turner and Anderson families

Louis Hayward

Hugh Henderson

Brandy Iliff

Dan Kimes, organ tuner

Paul Moffett

Rossie Patterson

Veda Riggs

Ethan Wesley Rosell, infant great-grand

nephew of Jimmie and Karen Younger

Sarah Jane Sackett

Beverly Southard

Cynthia Stevens

Libby Stoppard

Les and Wanda Warehime

Anne Webb

Arthena Young

“A real Advent wears pink...”

This past Sunday we started a

new Christian Year and began to

observe the season of Advent, a

season that prepares for the coming

of the Lord and the celebration of

Christmas. We’ve decked the halls

with garland and evergreens, trees

and wreaths, bows and candles and

nativity scenes, and the colors of red

and green. While those colors are

associated with the holiday season,

they actually aren’t the liturgical colors

for Advent or Christmas!

In ancient times, the dyes used

to make purple cloth were very

expensive, something only a king or

queen could afford. For the early

Church, the forty-day season of Lent

was the preparation for the Risen

King, and so purple paraments and

banners and stoles were used to

announce the message, “Prepare the

way of the Lord!” and help the Church

make the journey to the cross and to

Easter beyond.

Right in the middle of Lent, the

early Church took heart in the coming

of Easter and to rejoice in the promise

of salvation. So instead of dark and

heavy purple, for one Sunday they

lightened things up a bit and used

rose or pink colors everywhere as an

expression of joy.

shortened to only four weeks a long

time ago, and the holiday season

seems to be one of feasting more

than fasting, Advent still follows the

pattern of Lent by using purple colors

to announce the message “Prepare

the way of the Lord” and help us

make the journey to Bethlehem and

the birth of Christ our Lord.

Similarly, we use rose/pink colors in

the middle of our Advent worship to

help us rejoice in the promise of our

coming Savior. (Remember the one

pink candle??)

December 15 is Gaudete

(Gauw-deh’-teh) Sunday, which

takes its

n a m e

from a

Latin word

meaning

“rejoice.”

As part of

our rejoicing, everyone is

encouraged to wear something pink/

rose in color, much like wearing red

for Pentecost. Yes, a real Advent

season wears pink, so let ’s

rediscover the ancient Advent

tradition of celebrating with the

color pink and watch our joy blossom

as a rose among us!

“Joy to the world, the Lord is

come.

Let earth receive her king.

Let every heart prepare him

room,

and heaven and nature sing!”

Santa’s Workshop

For Children: games, dolls, sports

items, toy cars, books, art supplies

Thank you for helping us with this

mission and outreach project!

Cassie Gray

Some ideas for gifts:

For Adults: DVDs, CDs, books,

games, car care items, sports items,

picture frames, photo albums,

kitchen items, slippers

I survived my

three

Thanksgivings. I

went to Norman

the weekend

before and had it

with 29 of my

cousins I had not

seen in a long

time. It was

great! Then the lovely dinner we had at

church, thanks to Jane McKinney and

her fabulous crew. Even if I did put my

food on my napkin and stuff my

donation in Tom Nulf’s coffee, it was

fun. Some days you just can’t take me

out in public.

Kay Thompson went to Indianapolis

to play with her Hargrove kids and

celebrate Isabelle’s birthday. She got

back in time to go with Paul to Ft. Worth

and have Thanksgiving with their other

daughter’s family.

James and Mary Lynn Howard and

their daughter Cynthia and son-in-law,

Andy, went to Hot Springs to celebrate.

I think Andy needed a “road Trip” after

being cooped up so long. He is healing

nicely after his fall.

ritual was to go to the family party,

leave to play the late evening service

at FCC, go home and take care of the

milk and cookies, and then carry all

the presents down from the attic to

the tree. Sometimes I had to

assemble something and would

never really get any sleep, but that

was okay.

The snowy Christmas Eves have

been my favorites. I know they’re not

good for attendance, but FCC sure

looks pretty and inviting on snowy

nights.

One Christmas Eve I got to stay

home. I, and millions of others

watched FCC on the ABC Television

network.

They annually broadcast a

protestant Christmas Eve church

service, and at midnight, cut to the

Vatican in Rome. We had pre-taped

the service, and Dr. Griggs gave us

Christmas Eve off to stay home and

watch us on TV. Of all the churches in

the country, they chose to broadcast

us. Wow.

Recently I ran across a video of

the broadcast. Seeing myself

reminded me of those “before and

after” pictures they show of the

presidents.

Our church is very different

from those heady days. Yes, we’re a

lot smaller, but in some ways, I think

we’re a lot healthier.

Interestingly, our worship has

evolved over the years into

something that is uniquely us.

(Cont. p.7)

Strangely enough, Advent gets

its colorful traditions from the season

of Lent. While the original forty-days

of Advent got

Come for one or both!

Choral singing is addictive. Choral

singing is fun. It’s the ultimate team

effort, and is a very rewarding

experience.

Paul Pinkosky, Director of Music

and Organist

This year all of our

FCC children will have

the opportunity to

shop for their family

on December 22.

Please help us provide

our children with the

opportunity to experience the joy of

giving to others.

We need your help stocking the

shelves with gifts for all ages. Children

will shop for gifts for all members of

their family. Please limit gifts to

$10.00. Unwrapped gifts should be

brought to church by December 15.

Wednesday, December 11Mid-Week Peak Continues

5:30 Light Supper, FH - $5.006:00 Fall Bible Study, FH

the Book of Genesis

Joyce Marston went to Austin for

her Holiday, and got to see her

granddaughter who lives in New

York. That was fun!!

The Rorschachs had a big reunion

at Inverness Saturday night. It was

the Hermes family from Sapulpa.

That is Bob’s mother’s family. They

had about fifty folks, and seemed to

be having a grand time.A little girl

asked her mother where humans

come from. “Well, honey, God made

Adam and Eve, and they got married

and had children and that is how it

all got started.” Two days later she

asked her daddy the same question.

“The human race evolved from apes

over a million years.” The confused

girl returned to her mother and told

her what her daddy had said. “Well,

dear, it’s very simple, I told you

about my side of the family and he

told you about his.”

See you in church, Ruthie

Advent has always been my

favorite time of year. It’s a time of

changing seasons, anticipation, new

beginnings, and for FCC, beautiful

moments of worship in a beautiful

atmosphere.

I’ve had the privilege of sharing

this special season with my FCC family

for some time now.

Back when I began, my girls were

quite young. My annual Christmas Eve

People from vastly different

church backgrounds find something

familiar and comfortable here. I think

that’s kind of a rare thing.

Just like the architecture of our

church campus, our worship is a blend of

both ancient and modern that somehow

work together as a whole (where else can

you go from the Byzantine Empire to the

Jetsons in one city block?).

As we enter this holy season, I

invite anyone who has “the call” to come

and sing with our amazing Sanctuary

Choir. Rehearsals are at 7:00 on

Wednesdays immediately following

Pastor Michael’s awesome bible study.

Page 2Page 2 Page 3

CARD OF THANKS

Amanda and I would like toThank everybody at FirstChristian for their manythoughts,prayers,and cardsduring my mom's illness. Andtheir continued support whenmom passed away. It reallymeant alot to both of us andhelped us through somedifficult times. We love youall!

God Bless

Terri Phillips

Grateful Hearts

A welcoming place in a beautiful space!

Next time you come to our sanctuary, pause at the room across from

southeast entrance to see how Molly Krumme and Jane McKinney

have transformed the

former Friendship-

Galilean room into a

lovely multi-purpose

area. WWBS funds

have made it possible

to have a private room

for prayer, family group

gatherings at weddings

and memorial services,

guests and small

groups.

YEAR END GIFT REMINDER

As you consider your charitable giving for the rest of this year, the following are things to consider in your

planning:

1. The gift of appreciated stocks, bonds, or mutual fund shares to fulfill pledges can be a great tax

advantage. With today’s stock market this may not be advantageous unless the stock shows an

appreciated value. The donor gets to deduct the full value of the property on the day the gift is

donated, and to avoid capital gains taxes as well, if itemizing deductions on Income Tax returns.

But start soon to allow time to complete the transaction before December 31st. Call your tax

advisor or Mary Byrne for details.

2. IRA Charitable Gifts If you are over 70 ½ and have a traditional IRA, you may request your IRA

administrator to make direct distributions up to $100,000 in 2013 to the church or other charities. It

will not be counted as a taxable distribution to you, and it can be counted against your required

minimum distribution if you choose. This window of opportunity closes as of December 31, 2013.

You may want to pay your pledge for 2014 in advance to take advantage of these tax savings.

2. For 2014 consider using Automated Bank Drafts to pay your pledge. You can choose the 3rd

and/or the 18th of the month to have the authorized amount withdrawn. Allow two weeks to get

started. Over 50 busy members are currently using this service to save time and checking costs and

to maintain their peace of mind. Questions? Call Mary Byrne at 582-8237, Ext. 113.

3. REMEMBER! All gifts to be included on your 2013 Income Tax return as charitable deductions

must be delivered to the church or postmarked by December 31st

. The church office will close

at 5:00 PM on Tuesday, December 31st

.

If you are behind on your 2013 General Fund pledge, please make every effort to catch up by December

31st. Let’s finish this year with extra giving and start next year on sound footing as careful stewards of this

church and its resources. A heartfelt Thank You to all of you who have faithfully supported the ministries

we provide here.

Page 4

The 2013 Christmas Offering for

Regional Ministry

Disciples congregations will be receiving

these offerings on December 15 and 22

Your gifts to the Christmas Offering support all the

ministries of your regional church

The ministries of your regional church bring gifts:

v Of care and nurture of congregations and pastors through the

Regional Commission on Clergy

v Of summer ministries to children and youth who attend camps

and conferences sponsored by the Commission on Children,

Youth and Young Adults

v To those who lost homes and were injured or lost loved ones

during the May tornados

v Of consultation and direction to congregations seeking

transitional pastors or installed pastors

v Of education and resources through the annual Leadership

Training School.

Child Development

Center

Christmas Celebration

Friday, December 13

at 4 p.m.

The children will be singing carols

and Christmas songs for parents.

CDC Director Melinda Burkhardt

says it’s a great for families to

share the spirit of this joyous

holiday.

A Service of Hope and Solace

Friday, December 20th

7:00 p.m. in the Chapel

The holidays are supposed to full

of joy, but for many of us finding it

is an enormous challenge. While

others are singing and shopping

and seemingly happy, some

struggle with depression, grief,

anxiety, sadness, or a sense of loss.

For those having the “Christmas

blues,” the bright lights and

sparkling traditions only heighten

the struggle to find joy.

“Blue Christmas” is a worship

service uniquely fitted to those

who find at “the most wonderful

time of the year” a paradoxical

increase in genuine feelings of

sadness and grief. True joy does

not exclude grief – it incorporates

it. “Blue Christmas” offers a special

and honest recognition of the

struggles that many people face

during this season.

All are welcome to share in this

special service and find hope and

solace in Christmas once again, and

find the Light in the darkness.

THANKSGIVING OUTREACH REPORT

Thank you FCC family and friends!

Because of your generosity we were able

to provide 85 complete Thanksgiving

meals including a turkey, side dishes and

a pumpkin pie. Thank you to Jim

Alspaugh, Beverly Vale Brown, Nick and

Samantha Cox, Robin Dowling, Jason

Duncan, Ben and Cassie Gray, Richard

Lawson, Theresa Starling, Dwight

Wallace, and Megan and P.J. Wilson for

helping distribute these gifts. It was such

a blessing to serve in this way.

FCC Activities and Opportunities

Page 2Page 2 Page 5

Wednesday, December 410:00 Staff Meeting, EFH1:30- 8:00 LifeTouch Church Directory

Photos Taken, Parlor1:30–4:40 TCC Memoirs Writers Class, LibraryMid-Week Peak5:30 Light Supper, FH –$5.006:00 Bible Study, FHAdult Choir Program7:00 Sanctuary Choir, Choir Rm.

Thursday December 510:00 Outreach Opportunity - Snack

Pack Packing, NFH1:30 - 6:30 LifeTouch Church Directory

Photos Taken, Parlor7:00 “Jazz to the World” Sanctuary, Reception in FH following

Friday, December 611:30 Homebuilders Lunch, FirstWatch 68th & Memorial1:30 - 8:00 LifeTouch Church Directory Photos Taken, Parlor

Saturday, December 7Communion Preparation: Duska Vogel1:30 – 4:30 LifeTouch Church Directory Photos Taken, Parlor

Sunday, December 8Second Sunday of AdventNEACCO Prayer Calendar: Disciples Village – Barbara Sales; Christmas Offering9:00 Traditional Worship Service, Sanctuary10:00 Breakfast for the Children, FH10:15-11:00 All Sunday School classes11:15 Worship in Common Ground, Fellowship Hall12:30 ADVENT FESTIVAL, FH12:30 - 2:30 Children and Youth inAdvent Festival

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

Congregational Meeting on onSunday, December 22 follow-ing both worship services to

approve 2014 budget.

Monday, December 9Elder of the Week: James Howard8:00 Prayer Breakfast, FirstWatch,8101 E. 68th St., Devotion: James Howard7:00 Camp Christian Board Meeting, NFH

Tuesday, December 109:30 Prayer Group, Library

Wednesday, December 1110:00 Staff Meeting, EFH1:30–4:40 TCC Memoirs Writers Class, LibraryMid-Week Peak5:30 Light Supper, FH –$5.006:00 Bible Study, FHAdult Choir Program7:00 Sanctuary Choir, Choir Rm.

Thursday, December 125:00 – 7:00 Outreach opportunity: prepare and serve meal for folks at Day Center for the Homeless, 415 W. Archer; Sign-up sheets in Main Street lobby

Friday, December 134:00 CDC Christmas Program, Sanctuary

Saturday, December 14Communion Preparation: Don Swanson8:00 – 1:00 Midtown School of Performing Arts Rehearsal, Sanctuary11:00 – 1:00 Disciples Women Christmas Lunch, FH

Sunday, December 15Third Sunday of AdventChristmas OfferingCommunion to Home-CenteredNEACCO Prayer Calendar: Tulsa Interfaith Alliance – Jay Hoyt9:00 Traditional Worship Service, Sanctuary10:00 Breakfast for the Children, FH10:15-11:00 All Sunday School classes11:15 Worship in Common Ground, Fellowship HallSantaʼs Workshop setup after church, Homebuilders Rm.Sojourners Class Party, Ethel Brownʼs1:30 – 3:30 Recital for Midtown School of Performing Arts in Sanctuary, then FH till 6:006:00 The Loft Worship Service, north end of the Youth Lounge, 4th floor

Monday, December 16Vision published – covers 3 weeksElder of the Week: Kay Thompson8:00 Prayer Breakfast, FirstWatch, 8101 E. 68th St., Devotion: Kay Thompson5:30 Double Ring Christmas Dinner, FH

Tuesday, December 179:30 Prayer Group, Library6:00 Ministry Council, EFH

Wednesday, December 1810:00 CDC Chapel Time, Rm.2231:00 Staff Meeting, EFHMid-Week Peak5:30 Light Supper, FH –$5.006:00 Bible Study, FHAdult Choir Program7:00 Sanctuary Choir, Choir Rm.

Thursday, December 1911:00 Happy Timers, Sanctuary and

FH: A Merry Musical Medley fromthe Merry Men of FCC

7:00 Elders Christmas Gathering, Harvard ParkVillage, 5206 S. Harvard Ave.

Friday, December 207:00 “Blue Christmas: A Service of Hope and Solace,” Chapel

Saturday, December 21Communion Preparation: Barbara Pollard & Caleb Allen

Sunday, December 22Fourth Sunday of AdventChristmas OfferingNEACCO Prayer Calendar: OK Center for Community & Justice – Nancy Day9:00 Traditional Worship Service, Sanctuary – Congregational Meeting Part 1 following10:00 Breakfast for the Children, FH10:15-11:00 All Sunday School classes11:15 Worship in Common Ground, Fellowship Hall – Congregational Meeting Part 2 followingCHILDRENʼS PROGRAMS (Pre-K – 5th grades)

Noon – 2:30 (Junior Youth Fellowship) 3rd floor childrenʼs roomsYOUTH PROGRAMS (6th – 12th grades)

Noon – 2:30 (Chi Rho and CYF), 4th

floor Youth Rooms

Attendance and Gifts

December 6: Jerry ParkerDecember 7: Brooklin Knight,Sandra LewisDecember 8: Takoda Dawson,Shirley PlemonsDecember 9: Doug Thompson, JackWilsonDecember 10: Sara Rogers, DickWillhourDecember 11: Nita Griggs, JackVandervort, Laurita WilliamsDecember 12: Cassie GrayDecember 14: Lindsey EllerbachDecember 15: Michael WaltonDecember 17: Marianne MoffettDecember 18: Kaleb BowlinDecember 19: Caleb Allen, Mary LouGibson, Heather MurphyDecember 20: Velma Pishel,Montana PoorboyDecember 22: Christy BrooksDecember 25: Diane SmalingDecember 26: Bob GardnerDecember 27: Pauline Adkins, JohnAlspaugh, Susan Clay, HaroldHatfield, Maggie LargessDecember 28: Jack Elswick, GrantParkerDecember 29: Rick BowlinDecember 31: Becky Gray

Page 6

Sunday, November 24

Worship10:30 Sanctuary (one service) 164The Loft na Total Adults 164Children 70Total Worship Attendance 234

Sunday SchoolPreschool 23Elementary 47Youth 32Adults 68

Total Attendance 170

FinancesGeneral Fund $ 3,965.00Sunday School 17.00Loose Offering 30.00 Total $4,012.00

WWBS Fund $260.00Thanksgiving Offering 50.00

Gifts Given

Sunday, December 1

Worship9:00 Sanctuary 9711:15 Common Ground 40The Loft 24 Total Adults 161Children 71Total Worship Attendance 232

Sunday SchoolPreschool 21Elementary 50Youth 22Adults 77

Total Attendance 170

FinancesGeneral Fund $ 20,756.83Sunday School 18.00Loose Offering 60.00 Total $20,834.83

WWBS Fund $ 846.50Christmas Offering $ 60.00Week of Compassion 50.00

Double Ring Scholarship FundIn memory of Ruby McKee, given by

Double Ring ClassIn memory of Lon Canada, given by

Double Ring Class

Camp Christian UpdatesIn honor of J. Alan and Mary Lou Gibsonand their 53rd wedding anniversary onDecember 10th, given by

Richard and Peggy Ziglar

Week of CompassionIn honor of Mary Howardʼs 101st Birth-day November 22nd, given by

Richard and Peggy Ziglar

Thanksgiving OfferingIn memory of Jack and Betty Billingsleyand Ruby McKee, given by

Richard and Peggy Ziglar

Budget Contingency FundIn memory of Alonzo F. Canada III,given by

Bill Clark

We have received 114 commit-ment cards for 2014. We are grate-ful to all who have generouslyresponded with their gifts of time,talent and treasure! One hundred ten people havepledged $401,904 for next yearʼsministries! If you have not yet doneso please send your pledge card inthis week, or call or e-mail MaryByrne at marybyrne@fcctulsa.org ifyou prefer, and weʼll include yourresponse with our gifts to God forthe coming year.

Blessings,Mary Byrne

Thanks Receivedfor Outreach Gifts

Christian Church in OklahomaJohn 3:16 Mission

Phillips Theological SeminarySalvation Army

Christmas Eve Services

First Christian Church Downtown Tulsa - 5:30 PM & 11 PM

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org Page 7Page 2

Prayers and Cares

HOSPITAL

St. John Medical Center: Jarrod Elmore (no visitors or calls)

BIRTHS

Cayluhm Leon Dawson (11 lbs 22 in) 12-02-13 to Amanda & Jedidiah Dawson

DEATHS

Barbara Griffin - Memorial Service, Jan. 7 at 11 AM in the Chapel

HEALTH

John and Donna Ackenhausen

Kay Bauter

Shirley Bennett, cancer

Mardell Campbell

Jerry Carlton

Pat and Jim Dalby

Jeff Daniel

Della Davidson

Dollie Dorough, back surgery

Linda Douglas

David and Beth Dunning

Carolyn Dyer

Jarrod Elmore

Krista English, cancer

Jerry Gay

Les and Marcia Hames

Hope Harder

OTHER

Turner and Anderson families

Louis Hayward

Hugh Henderson

Brandy Iliff

Dan Kimes, organ tuner

Paul Moffett

Rossie Patterson

Veda Riggs

Ethan Wesley Rosell, infant great-grand

nephew of Jimmie and Karen Younger

Sarah Jane Sackett

Beverly Southard

Cynthia Stevens

Libby Stoppard

Les and Wanda Warehime

Anne Webb

Arthena Young

“A real Advent wears pink...”

This past Sunday we started a

new Christian Year and began to

observe the season of Advent, a

season that prepares for the coming

of the Lord and the celebration of

Christmas. We’ve decked the halls

with garland and evergreens, trees

and wreaths, bows and candles and

nativity scenes, and the colors of red

and green. While those colors are

associated with the holiday season,

they actually aren’t the liturgical colors

for Advent or Christmas!

In ancient times, the dyes used

to make purple cloth were very

expensive, something only a king or

queen could afford. For the early

Church, the forty-day season of Lent

was the preparation for the Risen

King, and so purple paraments and

banners and stoles were used to

announce the message, “Prepare the

way of the Lord!” and help the Church

make the journey to the cross and to

Easter beyond.

Right in the middle of Lent, the

early Church took heart in the coming

of Easter and to rejoice in the promise

of salvation. So instead of dark and

heavy purple, for one Sunday they

lightened things up a bit and used

rose or pink colors everywhere as an

expression of joy.

shortened to only four weeks a long

time ago, and the holiday season

seems to be one of feasting more

than fasting, Advent still follows the

pattern of Lent by using purple colors

to announce the message “Prepare

the way of the Lord” and help us

make the journey to Bethlehem and

the birth of Christ our Lord.

Similarly, we use rose/pink colors in

the middle of our Advent worship to

help us rejoice in the promise of our

coming Savior. (Remember the one

pink candle??)

December 15 is Gaudete

(Gauw-deh’-teh) Sunday, which

takes its

n a m e

from a

Latin word

meaning

“rejoice.”

As part of

our rejoicing, everyone is

encouraged to wear something pink/

rose in color, much like wearing red

for Pentecost. Yes, a real Advent

season wears pink, so let ’s

rediscover the ancient Advent

tradition of celebrating with the

color pink and watch our joy blossom

as a rose among us!

“Joy to the world, the Lord is

come.

Let earth receive her king.

Let every heart prepare him

room,

and heaven and nature sing!”

Santa’s Workshop

For Children: games, dolls, sports

items, toy cars, books, art supplies

Thank you for helping us with this

mission and outreach project!

Cassie Gray

Some ideas for gifts:

For Adults: DVDs, CDs, books,

games, car care items, sports items,

picture frames, photo albums,

kitchen items, slippers

I survived my

three

Thanksgivings. I

went to Norman

the weekend

before and had it

with 29 of my

cousins I had not

seen in a long

time. It was

great! Then the lovely dinner we had at

church, thanks to Jane McKinney and

her fabulous crew. Even if I did put my

food on my napkin and stuff my

donation in Tom Nulf’s coffee, it was

fun. Some days you just can’t take me

out in public.

Kay Thompson went to Indianapolis

to play with her Hargrove kids and

celebrate Isabelle’s birthday. She got

back in time to go with Paul to Ft. Worth

and have Thanksgiving with their other

daughter’s family.

James and Mary Lynn Howard and

their daughter Cynthia and son-in-law,

Andy, went to Hot Springs to celebrate.

I think Andy needed a “road Trip” after

being cooped up so long. He is healing

nicely after his fall.

ritual was to go to the family party,

leave to play the late evening service

at FCC, go home and take care of the

milk and cookies, and then carry all

the presents down from the attic to

the tree. Sometimes I had to

assemble something and would

never really get any sleep, but that

was okay.

The snowy Christmas Eves have

been my favorites. I know they’re not

good for attendance, but FCC sure

looks pretty and inviting on snowy

nights.

One Christmas Eve I got to stay

home. I, and millions of others

watched FCC on the ABC Television

network.

They annually broadcast a

protestant Christmas Eve church

service, and at midnight, cut to the

Vatican in Rome. We had pre-taped

the service, and Dr. Griggs gave us

Christmas Eve off to stay home and

watch us on TV. Of all the churches in

the country, they chose to broadcast

us. Wow.

Recently I ran across a video of

the broadcast. Seeing myself

reminded me of those “before and

after” pictures they show of the

presidents.

Our church is very different

from those heady days. Yes, we’re a

lot smaller, but in some ways, I think

we’re a lot healthier.

Interestingly, our worship has

evolved over the years into

something that is uniquely us.

(Cont. p.7)

Strangely enough, Advent gets

its colorful traditions from the season

of Lent. While the original forty-days

of Advent got

Come for one or both!

Choral singing is addictive. Choral

singing is fun. It’s the ultimate team

effort, and is a very rewarding

experience.

Paul Pinkosky, Director of Music

and Organist

This year all of our

FCC children will have

the opportunity to

shop for their family

on December 22.

Please help us provide

our children with the

opportunity to experience the joy of

giving to others.

We need your help stocking the

shelves with gifts for all ages. Children

will shop for gifts for all members of

their family. Please limit gifts to

$10.00. Unwrapped gifts should be

brought to church by December 15.

Wednesday, December 11Mid-Week Peak Continues

5:30 Light Supper, FH - $5.006:00 Fall Bible Study, FH

the Book of Genesis

Joyce Marston went to Austin for

her Holiday, and got to see her

granddaughter who lives in New

York. That was fun!!

The Rorschachs had a big reunion

at Inverness Saturday night. It was

the Hermes family from Sapulpa.

That is Bob’s mother’s family. They

had about fifty folks, and seemed to

be having a grand time.A little girl

asked her mother where humans

come from. “Well, honey, God made

Adam and Eve, and they got married

and had children and that is how it

all got started.” Two days later she

asked her daddy the same question.

“The human race evolved from apes

over a million years.” The confused

girl returned to her mother and told

her what her daddy had said. “Well,

dear, it’s very simple, I told you

about my side of the family and he

told you about his.”

See you in church, Ruthie

Advent has always been my

favorite time of year. It’s a time of

changing seasons, anticipation, new

beginnings, and for FCC, beautiful

moments of worship in a beautiful

atmosphere.

I’ve had the privilege of sharing

this special season with my FCC family

for some time now.

Back when I began, my girls were

quite young. My annual Christmas Eve

People from vastly different

church backgrounds find something

familiar and comfortable here. I think

that’s kind of a rare thing.

Just like the architecture of our

church campus, our worship is a blend of

both ancient and modern that somehow

work together as a whole (where else can

you go from the Byzantine Empire to the

Jetsons in one city block?).

As we enter this holy season, I

invite anyone who has “the call” to come

and sing with our amazing Sanctuary

Choir. Rehearsals are at 7:00 on

Wednesdays immediately following

Pastor Michael’s awesome bible study.

A publication of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Tulsa Vol. 18, Number 23 December 6, 2013

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 913 S. Boulder, Tulsa, OK • 918.582.8237 • fcctulsa.org

The First Christian Church VISION (USPS 012-958) is

published semi-monthly for its members by First

Christian Church at 913 South Boulder Ave., Tulsa,

OK, 74119-2097. Periodicals postage paid at Tulsa,

OK. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VISION,

913 S. Boulder Ave., Tulsa, OK 74119-2097.

Serving Schedule Sunday, December 8

Elder Prayers: 10:30 Mike Miller, offering; Meredith Miller, communionScripture Reader: Sandra LewisElder of the Week: (December 9) James HowardCommunion Preparation: Duska VogelDeacons serving communion: Raylene Barclay, Christy Brooks, Don Brooks, Jim

Freeman, Mary Garner, Joyce Kendall, Bobbie Lewis, Barbara Pollard, Caleb Allen.Greeters: James and Mary Lynn HowardFlowers for Sunday, December 8: The flowers are given by J. Alan & Mary Lou Gibson in celebration of their 53rd wedding anniversary on December 10th.Flower delivery week of December 8: Bill Osteen

Serving Schedule Sunday, December 15Elder Prayers: 9:00 Rihab Garner, offering; Bob Garner, communionScripture Reader: James HowardElder of the Week: (December 16) Kay ThompsonCommunion Preparation: Sandra LewisDeacons serving communion: Raylene Barclay, Christy Brooks, Don Brooks, Jim

Freeman, Mary Garner, Joyce Kendall, Bobbie Lewis, Barbara Pollard, CalebAllen.

Greeters: Raylene Barclay and Ruthie WildmanFlowers for Sunday, December 15: The flowers are given by Carolyn Dyer in

memory of her mother, Hazel Wiemann. Her 100th birthday would have been onDecember 18th. The flowers are also in memory of her son, Steven Dyer, Jr. andher grandson, Richard Dyer, Jr.

Flower delivery week of December 15: Helen and Bill Pummill

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING - SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22After both worship services to approve 2014 Budget

Aga-Patrian

Next Sunday: Our focus will be on thechildren: we feed them breakfast at 10:00AM (Jane will send out an e-mail for foodsign-up), and we will have a craft table atthe Advent Festival, Noon - 2:30.Last Sunday: Romans 8: 18-30Class Concerns: Pray for all our classmembers who couldnʼt be with us today.9 Present. RG

Double Ring

Next Sunday: Bob RorschachLast Sunday: Clarke Kendall taught aboutthe parable of the Good Samaritan.Visitors: Wally and Darla Cox, Nickʼsparents.Upcoming Events: Christmas party onDecember 16th (Mon.) 6:00 pm, FH.Celebrations: Charles Crewsʼ birthday34 Present. JAGHomebuilders

Next Sunday: Richard Lawson will teach.Last Sunday: Carol Lawson gave ourlesson.Upcoming Events: Jazz to the World -donʼt miss it! Dec. 5th at 7:00 PM. Also,Homebuilders Lunch at First Watch onFroday, Dec. 6 at 11:30Celebrations: Hope you had a happyThanksgiving - we are thankful for all ourblessings.Class Concerns: Barbara Griffinʼs family;so many others!16 Present. LS

Sojourners

Next Sunday: Jeremiah, Chapter 8.Upcoming Events: Advent Festival nextSunday - we have a booth. ChristmasParty December 15 after church at EthelBrownʼs.Celebrations: Celeste Barrowʼs birthday6 Present. CD

Sunday

School

Class

News

9:00 am Traditional, Sanctuary

10:00 am Breakfast for Children

10:15–11:00 am Sunday School

11:15 am Common Ground

Fellowship Hall

6:00 pm The Loft

(1st

and 3rd

Sundays)

Page 8

As we concluded our JYF session on the 5 Elements of

Worship, the children were able to decorate their own

personal apron to wear for Thanksgiving. As we learned

about Worship each session the children cooked and

prepared a food item to eat or take home to their family.

Our intention was that as the children had this ‘hands-on-

experience’ they would retain more of the information

we were teaching and be able to share that with their

family (along with the

foods and recipes).

The finale was great

fun as they colored and

used their individual

artistic skills to express

themselves.

They have been

encouraged to wear their aprons as a reminder to be

helpful and serve others through the holidays.

Children’s Ministry Concludes Hands-on Study of

According to Director of Children’s

Ministries, Bevery Vale Brown, the Advent Fes-

tival on December 8 is a family-oriented event

with food, fun and fellowship. “ Parents can

work with kids in making the various projects,”

says Brown. “ It takes about an hour and a half

to complete them.” The activites follow a de-

licious lunch prepared by Rev. Carol Lawson,

and concludes at

2:30. The follow-

ing week is Santa’s Workshop on Dec 22. JYF is also

having a Christmas lunch and party on that day. Some-

thing new to First Christian’s Christmas traditions, the

“Sparkle Tree.” The tree is hung with dozens of white

stars upon which are written suggestions for service

and caring to others. Invite your friends & family to

FCC!

Christmas Celebrations Continue with

Advent Activities

December 8

10 – 10:30 Breakfast for

everyone

10:30 – 11:15 Sunday School

11:15 – 12 Worship

12:30 - 2:30 Lunch for all

Advent activities after lunch

Booths:

· Cookies Decorating & Eating

· Badge Making

· Art Projects

· Goodie Bags

· Visit & Photo with Santa

· Barbeque Sandwich Lunch

· Candy Cane Crafts

· Christmas Tree Decorations

Christmas stories every 30 minutes

and sing-along Christmas Music

an Old-fashioned “Advent Festival”

Five Elements of Worship Program