Story of the Week

This past Wednesday morning I received one of the most meaningful certificates of appreciation ever.  Woodmanor nursing home put on a volunteer appreciation day and they honored everyone.  I noticed alot of organizations that volunteered but no individuals.  The guy next to me asked me who I was apart of.  I told him that I came on my own and that I lived back behind the field.  He acted confused.  I got to share with him my desire to spend time with the elderly and that I don’t get to see my own grandma these days and wish someone would visit her more often.  He couldn’t believe that someone would do that.  I praise Christ that he allowed me an opportunity to be a witness today. 

Wins to Celebrate

Spring Fever Triathlon

Amy crossed the finish line and completed her first sprint triathlon!  This year I was given the opportunity to volunteer as the guy that lets people know when to start the race.  I had my stopwatch and was able to give the last encouraging words as each participant jumped into the water.  I knew over a dozen triathletes this year – it was great! 

OKC Memorial ½ Marathon  

I’ve had an honor getting to know a new friend in the community.  Casey just got back into running a little over a month ago,  His longest run before Sunday was an 8 miler!  I’ve never seen a guy gain so much fuel from being around others than Casey did.  It’s no wonder this guy is doing so well with Edward Jones with all the charisma he contains!

Rogers County Youth Services

 Last week I was able to serve on the public relations committee once again.  I’m so glad I get to be apart of building a new shelter for the teenage orphans of Claremore.  They told me that the old shelter would be opening again soon and I could “begin loving on teenagers again”.

Rogers County Leadership Council

This coming August I have the opportunity of being apart of a 10 month long leadership council for young leaders of all different careers.  It is an incredible opportunity to meet leaders all across our county, network, and see how we can make this a better place to live.

Community Interviews

This past week I got to talk to two more people in our community that were able to answer some key questions that I’ve been asking different people, such as “what are some of the most unmet needs in our community?  how can i serve you?” Tanya from the visitors bureau and Dr. Brown from the RSU innovation center were gracious enough to answer my questions.  Cindy Bessett from Main Street, and Scott Elias from Grand Bank were also two others that I was able to meet and speak with.   These interviews are serving two purposes: it allows me the chance to meet people in the community in key positions and it allows me an opportunity to learn more about our community and ways of serving.

 

Upcoming Events

Care More for Claremore | May 3 | our first opportunity to serve together as a core team

Interview with Scott Bruegman from Red Rocks Church in Denver Colorado | May 7 | opportunity to interview a guy that spent two years building relationships in his community before ever thinking of starting a new church

Church Planter Assessment & Boot Camp | May 12-16 | will be spending an entire week learning the how to’s of a new church and will be assessed by the North Tx District

Well Gathering

We met for the past three weeks over at Pizza Time here in Claremore with a core group of people to rethink the church.  This was something we were experimenting with and decided that it would be in the best interest of everyone to meet monthly instead of weekly.  We never want to be meeting just to meet.  We decided we could completely remain outward focused and keep in touch regularly with calls and emails.  My desire is the serve the community for the long haul not start some new church in the short haul.  I’m asking myself questions like: “what’s best for the community” not what’s best for us?  It will never be about us.   

Most of those involved are still attending a local church on a Sunday morning and it has added to everyone’s plate to attempt to add to that.  We are in a season of planting seeds and building relationships right now and haven’t truly reached a point where meeting weekly is a neccessity.  I’m thrilled that we picked up on this so soon in this endeavor!

In all honesty our vision goes so far beyond just starting a new church.  I don’t believe God has called us to do that, as much as transforming a community.  We live in a post-christian community and people are craving something genuine.  I can’t state how I feel any better than a mentor and friend of mine stated recently through an email as he explained our heart beat for Claremore:

“Planting seeds is the first part of authentically planting a church. It is seed time then harvest. Through the eyes of most of the unchurched people the traditional church has absolutely nothing to offer. The goal of planting a church is for people far from God to be drawn into close relationship to Him. The happens when people like you and Amy are willing to do whatever it takes to build authentic relationships and to “Be the Church“. This starts by planting God type seeds and leading these friends to a authentic relationship. I want to encourage you to not get sucked into the “Doing Church” thing. It does produce income more quickly because churched people tend to give more readily than the unchurched. The problem is that the appraoch reaches churched people and The issue  that I have with many “church planters” is that they seem to be intent upon starting a service – tweaking the programs and calling it an innovative “church plant”. I personally get sick to my stomach when I hear these types of approaches. The world needs Jesus not another church.”

What if we did nothing but build relationships with our neighbors, co-workers, and places that we frequent for the next year, or two, or even more?  What if we really served our community with no agenda?  What if we layed aside our desire to start a new church that would have different type of preaching styles, relevant music, and meeting in buildings other than churches?  What if?

It’s funny that I work for American Farmer’s and Rancher’s MIC.  Anytime I call someone they make fun of my caller ID.  I’ve made fun of myself by rejecting the fact that I’m a farmer.  Well, for the rest of this year, next year, and however long after that – I commit to Christ and all of you to be a farmer that will plant as many seeds as possible in my field of harvest. 

“never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.  Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead

“you can be more successful in 2 months by becoming really interested in other people’s success than you can in 2 years trying to get other people interested in your own success” Dale Carnegie

Family 

Our family is continuing to figure out how all of this is going to work out.  Amy and I are both committed to getting more involved in our community and have more influence than we would ever be able to have locked up in the four walls of a church.  We are trying to balance our schedule.  One thing I know for sure: I don’t want to be apart of transforming a community at the expense of my wife’s resentment and my kid’s not knowing their daddy.

Friends

This morning I took my neighbor Jim our for breakfast.  This endeavor will always be about the Jims in the community.  We talked about life and it led into talking about God.  I am counting conversations with Jim not his conversion.  One day, without a doubt, I believe my neighbor will come to Christ by my love for him.

Prayer

Please pray that God would continue to open doors wide open for us to plant seeds.  Pray for favor as I continue to meet and interview people in this community.  Pray that God would give us patience and resist the temptation to speed this endeavor.  Pray for those that are partnering along with us that God would use them as well.  Pray for Amy and I as we head down for our boot camp in the next few weeks!

Answered Prayer

I want to be known as a shepherd that follows closely behind the heart of the true shepherd.  I don’t want to ever drive sheep but lead sheep.  I praise God that he has spoken to our hearts so early in this endeavor that we are going to remain focused on our task: planting seeds and the rest will be written in the history of our hearts and…… those that we serve with the love of Christ in Claremore Oklahoma.

All the doors that are opening for us to get more involved and serve.

Friends are watching from a distance at our authenticity and approach to being incarnational. 

 

 

 

  

Story of the Week    

Last Sunday night we gathered with some of our closest friends with the purpose of “rethinking the church“.  It was a night that I had been praying over for nearly six months.  We broke bread (pizza), shared our hearts, and prayed together at a local pizza place.  We decided from the very start that we would commit to be simplistic in loving Christ and loving our community.

We all came back to our house where all of our kids were playing together.  Besides Camden choking another kid and walking in on one of the girls going to the bathroom I would say the kids had a blast!  Amy made some incredible desserts and we defined what an authentic community was all about. 

This had to be the highlight of my year thus far.  I sat back and watched people encourage each other and hold each other’s kids.  It was like an extended family.  It was like a holiday in our own house.  It’s simply everything I want to commit my life to doing.  It was the best “church gathering” I’ve been to in a long time.  I want to be apart of creating a culture of authenticity that will follow Christ and serve our community.

Wins to Celebrate

Sequoyah High School

Tuesday was my second week in the high school classroom.  These students truly made me feel welcome.  All of them are seniors and I’m truly hoping that one day I will run into them again.  It is allowing me to serve a need for the school system, as well as shake off the rustiness in my speaking.

Wood Manor Assisted Living

Thursday I had one of the greatest fatherly highlights in serving our community.  Camden came with me over to Woodmanor to see my elderly friends.  I don’t think he minded – to him it was like walking into through the rooms of an all you can eat cookie buffet!  He loved it!  These older people that I have attempted to pour out my love too for the last three months, have in returned poured it right back onto my son!  If that isn’t God’s love and the way we should live our lives I’m not sure what is.

Springbrook Neighborhood 

We now have three families committed to be apart of a monthly “small group” at our home from our culdesac.  We may never mention the name of Christ for months, but we will come together and barbecue, talk about life, and attempt to serve one another.  Out of our love for them we hope Christ would be displayed by our lives.

Young Professionals Organization

Monday during lunch I was able to meet up with some of the guys from Young Profs.  Some of these guys are becoming my closest friends.  They are some of the sharpest business guys in the community. 

Tuesday evening I headed to a dinner at Pepper’s.  I’m feeling like I am becoming one of the key people in this group.  I’m truly enjoying these relationships and hope to know these friends for years to come.  Many of them are not involved in a local church.

Guys Night Out

Tonight I’m headed to a UFC night at one of my buddies house.  There will be about ten guys there and I’m just hoping they don’t turn into my older brother after watching Karate Kid when I was young and start busting out moves on me!

Community Interviews

Tuesday was very cool in the fact that I got to interview two very sharp guys in Claremore.  I got to sit down with our chief of police, Mickey Perry, and here his heart.  I have so much confidence that my boys will be raised in a safe place as long as this man is in leadership.  I also got to speak to Allen Stout who is a broker for Oklahomes.

Friday I was able to take Sean Evans, our Claremore Progress editor out to lunch.  He shared with me tons of information about Claremore and is a great contact to have for the future.

This week I will be meeting with Tonya, from the chamber of commerce – as well as one of the Young Profs from Grand Bank.

Upcoming Events

Spring Fever Triathlon | April 20 | Local triathlon in our community in which Amy will race & I’ll volunteer. 

Wood Manor Volunteer Appreciation | April 23

Church Planter Assessment & Boot Camp | May 12-16 | will be spending an entire week learning the how to’s of a new church and will be assessed by the North Tx District

OKC Memorial ½ Marathon | May 27|  going with two friends from Claremore

Prayer Needs

Well Gathering

 We are gathering together once again tomorrow night for our 2^nd gathering with friends to rethink the church.  We’ve invited several new couples and a few college students to come this week.  We’re really praying that after a month or so of regular gatherings we will have an idea of who are the core people that will serve alongside us long term.

Family

Our family is doing very well.  This week has been a very busy one, but we’ve still made it a priority to set aside time together eating dinner and reading bed-time stories.  We pray daily together in the mornings as well.

Friends

We are chipping away at building relationships all over Claremore.  We met several more neighbors in Springbrook and I’ve gotten to know almost the entire staff at Starbucks.  Amy used to work with the manager and assistant manager at Bath n Body several years ago.

We are keeping our schedule full and setting up lunches and dinners several weeks out to get to know other young couples.

Answered Prayer

Partnership

Last night I was able to hook up for dinner with David McNaughton, the North Tx A/G church planting director, and Dave from over at Claremore A/G.  It was good times and my prayer is that we would continue to partner with one another serve this community with the love of Christ. 

Two different people gave love offerings to go towards The Well.  We so appreciate the generosity of those that believe in this endeavor.  We are currently working toward opening a bank account at RCB to begin making these deposits.  We will always have our finances out in the open so everyone knows where monies are going.  This will be a priority.

I praise God that there are people that are surrounding us that believe in what this is all about.  We had 16 adults join together last week and we are looking forward to what happens tomorrow night as well.

“the church isn’t here to get from community, we are sent by God to serve the community” Mark Beeson

Story of the Week    

Recently I was asked to speak to a high school class of seniors regarding resumes and the interviewing process.  The curriculum we are using is from Junior Achievement - gosh I wish this stuff was around when I was in school.  I am looking forward to meeting with the same group over the next six weeks.  It’s a great opportunity to serve the local high school and just hang out with teenagers again! 

Wins to Celebrate  

Rogers County Youth Services

Last week I received a call to be on a public relations committee for this youth shelter.  I volunteered there over seven years ago as a Youth Pastor.  They are trying to get it back up and running and are asking support.  I’m humbled they would ask me and praise God for the opportunity to serve and partner with them.

Wood Manor Assisted Living

Springbrook Neighborhood 

We now have three families committed to be apart of a monthly “small group” at our home from our culdesac.  We may never mention the name of Christ for months, but we will come together and barbecue, talk about life, and attempt to serve one another.  Out of our love for them we hope Christ would be displayed by our lives.

Spring Fever Triathlon | April 20 | Local triathlon in our community in which Amy will race & I’ll volunteer. 

Church Planter Assessment & Boot Camp | May 12-16 | will be spending an entire week learning the how to’s of a new church and will be assessed by the North Tx District

 OKC Memorial ½ Marathon | May 27|  going with two friends from Claremore

Prayer 

Core Team

 Family

Our family is loving life right now.  Amy and I got to go on our monthly date this past Friday to a driller’s game.  We were able to discuss some healthy boundaries for our schedule as we pursue this endeavor.  We recently got zoo passes for the boys and are going this Friday!  Continue to pray that we will love and focus on our boys throught all of this!

•  God is continuing to expand our circle of friends in the community.  Last week I had a conversation with the manager at Java Dave’s coffeehouse where I frequent to do computer work.  She now considers me a regular customer.  I love this and it is what it is all about.

Community

• This week I will have the opportunity of interviewing our chief of police and our mayor to see how a community can better serve

Answered Prayers

·    favor of God opening doors to serve on the RCY service public relations committee

·    10 new people joining us as prayer partners

·    over 20 people letting us know they are open to being apart of our core team

·    neighbors open to having a monthly fellowship in our home

 

 

 

 

Story of the Week    

This past Monday I took the plunge and contacted friends and family about gathering together this coming Sunday night to discuss the topic of “rethinking the church” and what it means to be the church.  Amy and I have been praying specifically for the past six months for certain people to consider being apart of our core team.  Everyone we’ve asked has accepted the invitation to atleast be apart in hearing more about this venture.

Wins to Celebrate  

Rogers State University

Last Wednesday evening I sat in on a CRU (Campus Crusade for Christ) meeting at RSU.  I was able to meet quite a few students and hear the heart of the leader.  I’m truly hoping to partner with them, along with Chi Alpha. 

 Wood Manor Assisted Living

Last Tuesday I sat in the room of one of my favorite elderly men in Claremore – Jim.  There’s something about his eyes that reminds me of my Papa Sellers that died around 4 years ago.  He told me how much he appreciated my visits and encouraged me to continue caring for people.

Springbrook Neighbors

We’ve talked to several of our neighbors in our culdesac and it is looking as though we may start a small group in our very own Springbrook neighborhood.  Almost everyone of our neighbors cars are in their driveways on Sunday mornings.  Well, I guess we’ll just have to bring church to them!

Prayer Partners

Last week we sent out a mass email recruiting prayer partners for The Well.  I’m thrilled that over 40 friends and family have responded.  We’re still praying for over 60 more to commit with us.  This is huge!

Upcoming Schedule  

Sequoyah HS Interview Training | April 8-May 20 |  have a cool opportunity one hour a week for six weeks to be in a classroom with seniors needing direction after high school 

RCY Public Relations Committee | April 10 | Local youth shelter is needing help to get word out to the community of their needs so I’ve volunteered to help.  Meeting is this Thursday afternoon.

Guys Night Out  | April 19 | hanging with ½ dozen young guys for a UFC night 

Spring Fever Triathlon | April 20 | Local triathlon in our community in which Amy will race & I’ll volunteer. 

Church Planter Assessment & Boot Camp | May 12-16 | will be spending an entire week learning the how to’s of a new church and will be assessed by the North Tx District

 OKC Memorial ½ Marathon | May 27|  going with two unchurched guys from Claremore

Prayer 

Leadership Core

 Family

•  This past weekend we were able to escape away to OKC.  It was fun to get away from our mission field for awhile.  We need continued prayer against any attacks that might come our way

•  We’ve been able to continue to expand our relational network in the community and are praying for our friends to be served the love of Christ.  We want to continue to soak them in prayer that they may know Christ.

Answered Prayers

 Last Monday I met with Lindell Warren at the OK District Office in OKC.  We spent a little over 30 minutes together sharing our hearts.  I was able to share stories from our community and our vision for Claremore.  He’s very supportive and was encouraging.  He let me know that the district is going to reimburse Amy and I for our bootcamp registration and supplies, as well as pay for our assessment!

• Nick Michael is an incredibly gifted RSU student in graphic design.  He showed me some logo examples for The Well and is amazing.  I praise God that we’ve been able to link up with someone with such a great heart and that is so talented.
• Pizza Time Buffet has allowed us to meet for our core gathering for free.  Normally they charge a $50 fee for using their banquet room.  God has allowed us favor with the manager – Larry.  Claremore Assembly offered for us to use their facilities, but I am so glad we are going into the marketplace from the very beginning as part of our DNA.
• We had dinner with an incredible couple last Thursday night that have been desiring to be apart of a church again.  They are going to be apart of our gathering on Sunday night. 
• Last week at Claremore Assembly Brian, the Youth Pastor, approached me in heading up a small group for the transitioning seniors that are going into college. 

Story of the Week    

On Saturday morning I went on a 10 mile jog with a friend.  He’s a younger guy my age and truly has a passion to see our community progress.  Due to the length of our jog I was able to share with him all about our endeavor.  We talked about church.  After awhile I said, “I feel like we’ve had church this morning just you and me as we’ve been jogging”.  He responded by quickly adding, “Ricky, I feel like I’ve been challenged and encouraged spiritually this morning – more so than I have in 10 years worth of church services.”   Moments like that remind me that God is truly orchestrating and building this church one person at a time.  It may happen over a long period of time, but isn’t that how the early church began?  I don’t want to dig a hole and insert a tree that has already been grown and make something man-made.  I’d rather plant a seed and let God let it grow. 

Wins to Celebrate 

 CAT | Claremore Area Triathletes

The word is getting out amongst some of my contacts.  Twice a week I swim with two doctors here in town.  They are both eager to see this group form.  One has volunteered to set up running times and help people learn the skills of running.  The other was a college swimmer and is also excited to set up clinics for people to learn how to swim.  They both are challenging me in my own swimming discipline.  We are going to begin reserving lanes in the morning at our rec center.  This past Tuesday night I began riding with people in our community for a weekly ride hosted by our very own bike shop – Bikeabout. 

Rogers State University

This past week I was able to talk to two key people within the admin department.  One is over the food services and the other is over student services.  They are both very supportive of us starting a new church and would love to see us meet on campus if we so choose.  We are looking at the possibility of holding team meetings within the student union building on campus for a minimal $25 weekly fee.

 Wood Manor Assisted Living

On Tuesday afternoon I spent time with my elderly friends.  I had a lengthy discussion with Harold and Frank about gambling and cigarettes.  They brought it up and wanted to know my opinion.  Nothing was ever mentioned of God – but I could tell they respected my thoughts.  I literally felt like I was leading a small group in their room – it doesn’t get any better than that. 

Upcoming Schedule  

Church Planter Assessment | April 18 | will be going through a one day long assessment with the district 

Guys Night Out  | April 19 | hanging with ½ dozen young guys for a UFC night 

Spring Fever Triathlon | April 20 | Local triathlon in our community in which Amy will race & I’ll volunteer

Church Planter Boot Camp | May 12-16 | will be spending an entire week learning the how to’s of a new church 

Church Planter’s Round Table | May 19-20 | church planters in OKC to learn from

 OKC Memorial ½ Marathon | May 27|  going with two unchurched guys from Claremore

Prayer

Meeting with Amanda Walker (student services)This coming Tuesday morning I will be meeting with her to discuss the possibility of holding our core meetings in the student union center or just the possibility of leading a small group on campus.  

 Meeting with Lindell Warren (OK missions director) Monday morning Amy and I will be headed to OKC to meet with the district to discuss in more detail our endeavor to start a new church in claremore.  We need favor and blessing as we want to do this the right way.  We believe in the long-run it will only help build credibility and trust.  Several churches have attempted to start in the past few years with failure due to no accountability within a denomination. 

Leadership Core

This past week I have somewhat changed in my thinking.  I really feel instead of building a launch team – we will begin building a leadership core.  Hopefully this will grow one by one over time and eventually grow the church.  We have continued to soak names in prayer and will begin asking our friends to join us in our efforts to see God begin a new thing in our community.  We are waiting patiently for the district’s blessing.   

Partnerships

God has already been speaking to hearts about supporting this cause.  What God orchestrates – he provides.  So far this endeavor has cost us personally over $1000 – mostly in boot camp fees and resources.  We know God has called us to sacrifice long before anyone else and will continue to chip away. 

 Family

Over the past several weeks I’ve been doing way too much.  I received an email from a close friend bringing this to my attention, as well as just sensing in myself.  A few nights ago I woke up in the middle of the night after having a dream in which I was doing all these “good things”.  A figure in the shape of an angel was encouraging me and then all of a sudden turned into a demonic figure.  It told me, “I am coming after your focus, I want your focus”.   

I knew immediately that I’ve been attempting to build this church.  God reminded me that he’s not called me to build anything – he is the one that will do it.  He has simply called me love and serve people.  My focus was way off lately and I was beginning to get bogged down in the details of things other than people.  My focus will not be side-tracked and I will continue to build relationships all over this community! 

Friends & Neighbors

Our neighbor Jim declined to go to an Easter service with us, but agreed to go out after for lunch.  He loved it and got to meet some of our core leaders.  He doubts God and my heart longs for him to know Christ personally. 

The list is growing to around 100 people that I’m praying for that need Christ in this community.  Do you know of anyone?   

Thursday we will be having dinner with a young couple that currently doesn’t attend church anywhere.  They used to attend a church in town – but no longer.  She just so happens to cut Camden’s hair and we’ve been able to build a relationship with her over time. 

Answered Prayer

Claremore Assembly had a board meeting this week and from what we’ve heard there was nothing but support and approval.  Thank God for an incredible partnership with Pastor Dave and his leadership.

Continued favor with CAT

I was able to run into the young man I wrote about in the past who left the church over a ball cap.  He has been avoiding me.  He told me, “I’m not the same guy anymore – I’m not into church.”  I told him neither was I.  I also expressed to him that I would not judge, condemn, or attempt to convert him.  I just wanted him to give me a second chance and be my friend.  He agreed 100% and I can’t wait to see where this goes. 

Blog

At anytime, please feel free to read entries.  I attempt to write something daily.  This truly allows you to get in my head and know what makes my heart beat.   www.rickyvanpay.wordpress.com 

Thank You

A special thanks this week to Steve Pike, national church planting director for the A/G, for spending over an hour and a half with me on the phone.  His words of encouragement and advice were more timely than he’ll ever know.  Thanks Steve for believing in us and challenging us to be chaordic!

 Until we begin meeting weekly with a team of people to serve the forgotten people of Claremore, this is the most important piece of communication.  I am so thankful that God continues to pave the way and gives me favor each Tues/Thurs I step out the door.  I feel like a missionary!  I’m eager to begin meeting with others to do this together like it’s meant to be. 

Thanks for your time.  I would love any suggestions or feedback in these endeavors.

Story of the Week

There wasn’t one dramatic story this week, but so many little stories along the way.  I had several conversations this week with some guys that reminded me that God was already having me “Pastor” some people without the position.  I love that.  It’s hard to measure or guage spiritual growth isn’t it?  Sometimes you can’t describe it.  But…. in conversations here and there you just since God tugging on hearts!

Wins to Celebrate

 01 Young Professional Organization

This past Tuesday Amy and I were able to go to a special dinner with a dozen others to discuss retirement.  I’m still blown away that God has already set up a small group for us that all we have to do is show up.  We met several new people and due to the size were able to get to know all about them.  One guy is Casey Looper is works for Edward Jones Investments.  This guy has a network of over 1600 contacts.  We hit it off and he wants me to train him for a ½ marathon we are doing together at the of next month!

 02 Weekly Motivational Email

This still continues to be a creative outlet to reach over 300 contacts by email.  It is just a simple motivator that I send out each week and it is so cool the replies that I get.  If God wants to use technology to plant some seeds than I am going to continue to type and hit send. 

These are organizations in the community that we’re serving and partnering with. 

RSU

• Currently trying to work with the leader over student organizations to help better serve
• Partnering with Shawn Salisbury over Chi Alpha
• Volunteering under Coach Bradley with the baseball team 

Wood Manor Assisted Living

One of the best things happened this past Tuesday.  I was in a room with an elderly friend named James Bond (yes I’m not kidding).  As we were chatting about life – his daughter walked in.  I apologized and politely told them I would leave the room.  She said, “Oh no, you must be Ricky.  My dad has told me all about you.  You can be in here anytime.” 

Rogers County Youth Services

I received a call from Herb (over the shelter) and he wants me to come in this week and talk about serving.  This is a teenage orphan shelter where they hang out until they go to their next home.  I can’t wait to play basketball with these kids.  I used to volunteer for a brief time seven years ago as a Youth Pastor. 

Roger’s County Prison

Still waiting on the opportunity to begin going into our local prison and let these people know they are not forgotten. 

Upcoming Schedule 

Phone Interview w/ Rodney Fouts (former church planter) March 24 

Claremore Assembly of God Board Mtg March 26 Pastor Dave will be meeting with his board and will be notifying them of our church plans. 

Girls Night Out  March 28Amy goes out with girls from all over the Claremore area 

Church Planter Assessment April 18Amy and I will be going through a one day long assessment with the district 

Guys Night Out  April 19I will be hanging with ½ dozen young guys for a UFC night 

Spring Fever Triathlon April 20Local triathlon in our community in which Amy will be participating and I will be volunteering. 

Church Planter Boot Camp May 12-16 Amy and I will be spending an entire week learning, growing, and making relationships as we learn every aspect of planting a new church. 

Church Planter’s Round Table May 19-20 I might have the opportunity to spend some time with a dozen church planters in OKC learning from their experience. 

OKC Memorial ½ Marathon  May 27I am driving two hours there and back with two very young influential guys in our community.  I never realized two years ago why I got into all this fitness stuff now I know why. 

Prayer 

01 Relational Network

• Mom’s Club / Jr Ocelata / Mom’s Night Out
• Kum & Go
• The Platinum Center
• Springbrook Community (neighborhood where we live)
• Local Business Owners
• The Rec Center
• Wood Manor Assisted Living
• RSU baseball team. 

02 Launch Team

Our prayer continues to be that God would speak to hearts long before we ever do.  God already has put a team together of like mind.  Please pray that hearts would be stirred and that people would take a risk and step out into the unknown with us as we reach the unchurched and forgotten people of our community.  We are currently thinking of two different places to begin holding weekly team meetings and a time that will work best for our team. 

O3 Partnerships

God has already layed it on some hearts to begin partnering with us.  As soon as we get the green light with our denomination and local church we will begin raising funds by itinerating and partnering with other churches, family, and friends.  Two more families have agreed to begin supporting The Well.  We are in the process of setting up an account to make this happen in an accountable way. 

05 Family

Please pray that God gives me wisdom in my schedule.  I don’t want my family to be sacrificed on the altar of ministry.  I am wearing many hats right now and my attention is widespread.  I don’t want to lose sight of those most precious to me.  I ask you all to keep me accountable in this area. 

06 C.A.T. (Claremore Area Triathletes)

Please continue to soak this in prayer.  I am still waiting on a green light to pursue a huge opportunity to meet a whole wide range of people and be able to meet a gigantic physical need in this community.  I just recently heard Claremore will host another triathlon in the fall.  Out of around 10 in the state – two will be here.  In the future The Well will sponsor these events. 

Answered Prayer

• Two more families have agreed to begin partnering. 
• We were able to talk with several more couples and friends about The Well and they are very excited about being involved
• Herb calling from RCY services wanting an interview
• The continued partnership and favor with Claremore Assembly
• People that I’ve been praying about for months to join this team are beginning to reasonate with this vision

*We just purchased a program called Converge.  It has an incredible computer program that gives a step by step process for everything needed to plant a church.  This isn’t a cookie cutter thing, but allows us to tailor-make it for the context of our community.  Please check it out: http://www.newchurches.com/converge/ 

Story of the Week

The absolute highlight of the week came on Thursday at RSU.  Coach Bradley, the baseball coach, called and asked me to throw some batting practice for the team.  I haven’t picked up a ball in years – but it was an immediate connection with over 30 college guys and a coaching staff – huge answer to prayer and huge opportunity!  I almost took a kid’s head off after blazing a ball over his head.  His eyes darted up at me like he was going to charge the mound.  I thought inside, “Ricky what are thinking?  You’re here to build a relationship with these players not kill them!”  The coach had to tell me to slow down my pitches.  I could almost hear my heart was beating all day.  I hadn’t been that nervous since my first triathlon over two years ago!   

Wins to Celebrate 

01 Super Rec Center / Claremore Area Triathletes

On Thursday afternoon I headed over to city hall and met with two of my new friends Matt (assistant city manager) and Mitch (manager of the Rec Center) to discuss options of being a personal trainer at the Rec and forming a tri club in Claremore.  I found out that over 4500 people are members there and over 1000 are RSU students!  We are just waiting to get approval from the district attorney for me to able to do personal training there.  Matt & Mitch both attend church in Tulsa but are excited about a new church starting in our community.  Matt just became my jogging partner overnight!

02 Young Professional Organization 

On Tuesday evening I went to have wings and beer at Wings to Go for our dinner.  I was probably the only one downing an iced tea.  I was able to meet almost an entirely different crowd.  I am forming great relationships with a group of people in their 20’s and 30’s.  These people hold some key positions in Claremore such as: marketing reps, club owners, city council members, casino manager, and even the mayor! 

03 Weekly Motivational Email 

About a month or so ago I started sending out a weekly email to my pt clients for exercise purposes.  I started adding family and friends slowly.  Over time I’ve started sending it out to over 250 contacts.  The responses from this simple email have been remarkable.  I thank God that he is redeeming technology and touching lives with it!

These are organizations in the community that we’re serving and partnering with.   

RSU

• Currently trying to work with the leader over student organizations to help better serve
• Partnering with Shawn Salisbury over Chi Alpha
• Volunteering under Coach Bradley with the baseball team 

Wood Manor Assisted Living

Relationships are continuing to be built.  I met a staff member named Katie and look forward to getting to know her better.  Many of the residents were excited to show me pictures of my family that was taken at  the Valentine Banquet we attended last month.

Rogers County Youth Services·

The shelter is currently doing repairs to better house these teenage orphans.  As soon as it opens I’m looking forward to being a Student Pastor again on Tuesday mornings. 

Hope Harbor

After an interview this past week I’ve decided that my schedule is not going to allow me to volunteer here.  I believe in what they are doing and will look for opportunities perhaps in the future.

Roger’s County Prison

Still waiting on the opportunity to begin going into our local prison and let these people know they are not forgotten. 

Upcoming Schedule 

Young Prof Dinner at Pink House March 18 

Claremore Assembly of God Board Mtg March 19 Pastor Dave will be meeting with his board and will be notifying them of our church plans. 

Spring Fever Triathlon April 20 Local triathlon in our community in which Amy will be participating and I will be volunteering. 

Church Planter Boot Camp May 12-16 Amy and I will be spending an entire week learning, growing, and making relationships as we learn every aspect of planting a new church. 

Church Planter’s Round Table May 19-20 I might have the opportunity to spend some time with a dozen church planters in OKC learning from their experience. 

Prayer 

01 Relational Network

• Mom’s Club / Jr Ocelata / Mom’s Night Out
• Kum & Go
• The Platinum Center
• Springbrook Community (neighborhood where we live)
• Local Business Owners
• The Rec Center
• Wood Manor Assisted Living
• RSU baseball team

02 Launch Team

Our prayer continues to be that God would speak to hearts long before we ever do.  God already has put a team together of like mind.  Please pray that hearts would be stirred and that people would take a risk and step out into the unknown with us as we reach the unchurched and forgotten people of our community.  We are currently thinking of two different places to begin holding weekly team meetings and a time that will work best for our team. 

O3 Partnerships

God has already layed it on some hearts to begin partnering with us.  As soon as we get the green light with our denomination and local church we will begin raising funds by itinerating and partnering with other churches, family, and friends. 

04 Advisory Council

I sent out an email today to six different people (former Pastors, district officials) and men in my life that I hold a tremendous amount of respect for.  I’ve asked them to be apart of all that is going on and to give me advice and insight along this journey.  I don’t want to be a maverick and want to stay accountable.  My older brother John planted a church a little over a month ago in Helotes Texas.  I’ve been able to watch his process from day one.  He’s volunteered to be my coach throughout all of this.   

05 Family

Please pray that God gives me wisdom in my schedule.  I don’t want my family to be sacrificed on the altar of ministry.  I am wearing many hats right now and my attention is widespread.  I don’t want to lose sight of those most precious to me.  I ask you all to keep me accountable in this area.

Answered Prayer

• RSU opportunity with baseball team
• Young Prof relationships
• The Rec Center / Tri Club potential
• Brad Causey: works in church planting office in Springfield and gave me some key advice this past week. 
• Pray that Amy and I will be able to do an assessment sometime in the near future.
• Nick Michael has continued to agree to assist us in graphic design

08 Recap

Books

I spent most of December and January floating between Mardel and Barnes and Noble engulfing over 50 books.  I’m going to start posting some book reviews on my blog if you’re interested in knowing some books that have helped shape my thinking.  My favorite one has been the Bible reading through the gospels! 

Reconnaisance Visits

These are a list of churches around the Tulsa area that we have visited over the past two months to help learn from: 

• Battle Creek
• People’s Church
• Life Church
• The Gathering
• Destiny Church
• Believer’s Church
• Journey Church

 Here’s a list from around our own community:

• Church at Claremore
• Claremore Assembly of God
• First Baptist
• First United Methodist
• Life Changers
• First Church of God  

Serving the Forgotten of Claremore

These are organizations in the community that we’re serving and partnering with.   

RSU

• Currently trying to work with the leader over student organizations to help better serve
• Partnering with Shawn Salisbury over Chi Alpha
• Volunteering under Coach Bradley with the baseball team

Wood Manor Assisted Living

• For the past 6 weeks I’ve been volunteering several hours a week building relationships with the elderly
• Took two men out to Golden Corral for lunch
• My family attended their Valentines Banquet

Rogers County Youth Services

• Will begin volunteering an hour a week spending time with teenage orphans at this shelter as they await their next home

 Hope Harbor

• In the next few weeks will begin volunteering an hour a week helping in a classroom of this orphanage for small kids

 Roger’s County Prison

• Still waiting on the opportunity to begin going into our local prison and let these people know they are not forgotten

 Story of the Week

Many of you know the story of the young man that I built a relationship with over seven years ago and he ran out of our church over a ball cap.  I met him after work this past Thursday evening and gave him the apology he deserved.  I told him that the church let him down and more importantly I let him down.  Both of our eyes teared up and I believe the relationship was reconciled.  I apologized to his mother in the parking lot and told her, if she wished, I would stop bothering them.  She told me, “I wish you would keep bothering him!”.  

Wins to Celebrate 

01 Prayer Summit

Earlier this week we were able to attend a gathering of church planters from all over the nation in Springfield.  We experienced some incredible services and established some well needed relationships.  We were able to spend over an hour with the lead Church Planting Director of the North Texas District.  He is going to be a main resource for us along each step of the way.  We were also able to spend some time with Herbert Cooper (lead pastor of People’s Church in OKC) asking him questions and learning from his experience.  It was a joy to spend tons of time with my older brother, John, is just a month into a new church plant.  I’ve been able to watch their process from the very beginning stages over the last six months.  He’s been a valuable coach to me all along the way.  Several other contacts were made as well.  

02 Super Rec Center / Claremore Area Triathletes

I recently met with Mitch who is manager of the rec center here in Claremore.  I discussed with him the option of me being an outside personal trainer that comes in.  Three months ago he wouldn’t even give it an option, but due to our recent connection, he seems all for it.  He’s also thrilled to hear of my idea to begin a triathlete club in our area.  This will be a huge way for me to build friendships and help people physically with weight loss – what an incredible door of opportunity!  I’m already swimming with two doctors in our community, about to personally train a Pastor, and begin running with two RSU students! 

03 Young Professional Organization

Last month, I began attending a monthly dinner for those in their 20’s and 30’s that are wanting to see our community move forward.  I got to sit across from our City Mayor and Assistant City Manager.  I’m attending another one on Monday evening.  Three of the individuals there go to Lifechurch in Tulsa, but are thrilled to hear that a relevant new church will be starting next year. 

Upcoming Schedule 

01Church Planter Boot Camp May 12-16 Amy and I will be spending an entire week learning, growing, and making relationships as we learn every aspect of planting a new church. 

02Church Planter’s Round Table May 19-20 I might have the opportunity to spend some time with a dozen church planters in OKC learning from their experience. 

Prayer

 I am challenged to not gather all the disgruntled Christians together to start a new church, but those that are not going anywhere.  I’ve begun the process of attempting to initiate contact with between 1000-2000 people around the Claremore area.  This will not happen by me alone but with a team of people that God surrounds us with.  So far, Amy and I have been able to establish relationships with over 150.  We are having dinner and lunch with people regularly as much as possible on a weekly basis. 

We are praying specifically for the following: 

01 Mom’s Club Amy is attending weekly events with other mom’s in our community 

02 Java Dave’s and Perfect Ground’s Cofeehouses

I do most of my computer work at two specific places getting to know the employees and others 

03 Claremore Rec Center

By simply going early in the mornings to swim/run/bike, I’ve been able to establish some key relationships with the staff and others 

04 Kum & Go

God has opened an awesome door with two key employees and they share a little more each time I pump my gas and get my Diet Mt Dew refill. 

06 The Platinum Center

After working for over a year and a half doing personal training in Tulsa, God has allowed me to build some very good friendships.  Two of my best friends are a bike riding partner and an agnostic trainee.  One is the key accountant at his company and the other is over all the computers at his. 

07 Springbrook Community

Amy and I have lived in our current house for over a year now and feel called to our neighbors.  We’ve established amazing friendships by serving our neighbors on both sides.  As the weather warms up we are going to begin going door to door to over 64 houses introducing ourselves and attempting to connect with new friends. 

08 Local Business Owners

Starting next month my plan is to begin interviewing some of the most influential people in Claremore on what the needs are and how a new church could better serve this community.  These will be great ways to build relationships with them as well.   

09 Launch Team

So far, Amy and I have been very relunctant asking people to join alongside us.  We are praying that God would speak to hearts long before we ever do.  Over the next few months, we are going to begin the process of putting that team together.  I’m thankful that we already have an incredible couple that have committed and a college student that is willing to help us with graphic design. 

10 Financial

The amount needed to start a new church is no small thing.  The cool part is that if we can raise the first $30,000, our denomination will match that amount in the form of a zero-interest loan.  My desire is to begin partnering with local churches, businesses, family, and friends to begin raising this amount.  Amy and I are looking to itinerate in the months ahead and are already making plans to sacrifice ourselves to make this happen.

 11 Partnerships Amy and I are currently attending Claremore Assembly of God where we were former Youth Pastor and Worship Pastor seven years ago.  Amy is helping on the worship team and I’m volunteering as a greeter.  We are thrilled in the fact that Pastor Dave Mewbourne is partnering with us to get this church off the ground.  We also had a fellow Pastor approach us at the Prayer Summit in letting us know when the time comes he will be helping us financially in the beginning stages. 

12 Family

The moment our family said yes to God to pursue this calling, we’ve experienced setbacks and turmoil.  I know this is part of being a follower of Christ and Satan knows what we are focusing all of our efforts on.  Please pray for us as we are taking huge risks and fighting spiritual warfare in the heavenly realm.  

Answered prayer

As time passes, we hope many from the above column float down into this section.  Please be praying for all of these things listed.  If God doesn’t go before us and orchestrate all of this, it will not happen.