Thursday, March 27, 2008
- Mark McAdow
Growing up in Tulsa, we had a local children’s show called “Mr. Zing and Tuffy.” For the OKC kids, you may remember Foreman Scotty and Ho Ho the Clown (unfortunately that would not be considered a politically correct name today!). If I remember right, Tuffy was a large lion and Mr. Zing a cool guy who interacted with the kids in the gallery. I was one of those kids on a couple of occasions; I think for a birthday or two. It was so fun to drive up Lookout Mountain to the ABC Channel 8 studio and “Be on TV!” The theme song of the show, beginning and end, was a silly song that went something like this, “I like to say ‘Hello,’ I don’t like to say ‘Good-bye;’ and so I say ‘Hello’ when I say ‘Good-bye!’” Why recall this song today?
As a church family, we’ve said “goodbye” to two good friends in the last few weeks: Nanci Reed, our Children’s Director, and Loaves & Fishes, our Thursday noon lunch program. Change is always “bittersweet.” We’re thrilled Nanci and her girls will still be with us at First Church, though not in a staff position any longer, and we’re glad she can pursue other interests in her life and spend more time with Addison and Kaylan. We’re most thankful for the wonderful team of Christian women, “The Initiators,” Nanci put in place to lead our Children’s Ministry, and for Jan Chapman’s willingness to serve as our volunteer Children’s Coordinator at this time.
In terms of Loaves & Fishes, I can’t begin to thank all those folks who’ve been involved every Thursday for these many years. The ones I’ve gotten to know this past year include Baird and Wanda Askins, Bill and Evelyn Mullins, Mary Nethercutt, our fabulous cook Mary McIntire, and Andrea Koontz. Thanks to each of you for you service to Christ and First Church!
With the “goodbyes” will also come some “hellos.” We hope to begin a whole new Thursday noon lunch opportunity in May currently called “Sanctuary Café.” It will continue to feature Mary’s great cooking and provide a place downtown for lunch appointments in a Christian setting. Its springtime – change is in the air and change signals growth. Come grow with us and invite your friends, too! I am so blessed to be your Senior Pastor.
Yours in Christ’s Love,
Mark
P.S. Holy Week and Easter Sunday were incredible at First Church! With three services (thanks Kirk for the chilly Sunrise Service) on Easter Sunday, we had 555 people in worship. Praise God!