College & Office Associate

Laci assists in facilitating college programming with the College Ministry team at Wildwood and assists the Office team.

Family:

Education: Student at OU

On staff since:  August 2023

One thing you love about Wildwood:

Favorite book/movies:

Hobbies:

Heaven – By Jennifer Rothschild (7-wk study)

Meets: Thursdays, starting March 13, 2025

Led by Lori Abernethy

Where & When: 9:30-11:30 am, in Room 2

Heaven. Who goes there? Where is it? What will we do there? Questions like these arise when we consider an eternal future beyond this physical life. How can we know the truth about what comes next?

In this 7-session video-based Bible study workbook, Jennifer Rothschild explores the subject of Heaven from a biblical perspective. She will separate what’s true about Heaven from what’s based on legend, media depictions, and hopeful guesses. As you walk through the study, you’ll not only gain a deeper understanding of what God has prepared for His children but also learn how to live with confidence today as you look forward to the glorious unending that awaits. Don’t just wonder about Heaven-embrace it with a faith that turns anticipation into excitement and peace.

The cost of the Bible study book is $22 and can be purchased on Amazon.

DNOW is our SPRING weekend, in-town retreat. Each year we create a space for students
to unplug from the busyness of the semester and reset their focus on Christ. We bring in a
band and speaker and have an army of volunteers to help make worship, small groups, learning,
growing, and fun happen Friday night, all day Saturday, and Sunday morning.

WHO: 6th – 12th grade
WHAT: Theme: Deeply Loved (Romans 8)
WHEN: February 21-23, 2025
HOW: Register your student NOW
COST: $80

Chris & Laurie Goree

Who are we?

Chris and Laurie Goree are the founders of Apollos Training International with a mission of developing biblically-sound, contextually responsive training solutions for the advancement and health of the global church. They have two adult married children and two grandchildren. Chris & Laurie met in college and both graduated from The University of Oklahoma. Chris received his law degree from Oklahoma City University and has a Certificate of Graduate Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary. Laurie has a Master of Arts in Educational Ministries degree from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. They have been attending Wildwood since 2012.

What are we doing?

Chris and Laurie prepare curriculum and provide training resources to pastors and senior church leaders in countries around the world where there is little access to theological education. They are members of the International Council for Evangelical Theological Education working to develop partnerships with both formal and non-formal ministries to advance the global mission of training pastors and senior church leaders.

Our Vision

Our vision is to see healthy global churches and ministries led by well-equipped pastors and teachers.

Our Mission

We develop biblically-sound, contextually responsive training solutions for the advancement and health of the global church.

Our Values

Local leadership, Cross-cultural partnerships, Transformational learning principles, Biblical and theological foundations, Wholistic responsiveness to needs

Ladies, we’re delighted to invite you to WOW Weekend 2025 on February 28 & March 1 for a time of worship, teaching, and fellowship.

This year’s theme is Love God. Love People. Share Jesus. with our speaker Jessica Vaughn. You won’t want to miss it!

Register by Feb 16 to get your preferred t-shirt.  If you’d like to donate a door prize for WOW Weekend, please e-mail wowofwildwood@gmail.com. These will be collected through Sunday, February 23rd.

If you’re a girl aged 18-118, please make plans to join us at this year’s WOW Weekend, you’ll be so glad you did!

Merge

Who: Open to young adults ages 18-30 (singles and couples)

What: 1 Peter

When: 11:00 am

Where: Room 2 downstairs

Leader: Craig Frisby and Max & Janelle Bevan

For more information on our Young Adult ministry click HERE

Each January, Wildwood Men attend a Men’s Retreat. This conference gives men the opportunity to relax, have fun, and grow – both in their relationship with the Lord and as a man.

A group of men will be attending the Sky Ranch Men’s Retreat on January 24-26! For all the info or to register, please visit https://skyranch.org/pages/mensretreat. Use the Wildwood registration button at the bottom of the page to register, then enter discount code 2025WWCCMEN to save $50. If you have questions, email Pastor Bruce

God of Covenant, Genesis- by Jen Wilkin

Starts: Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 10-week study, Led by Diane Hodgson

Where & When: 6:05-7:25 pm, in Room 4

Beginning with Genesis 12, walk alongside the fathers of our faith—Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph—to discern Jesus in the stories of His people. Book cost is $16 and can be purchased on Amazon.

Lead Me is a family class about the gospel & what it means to trust in Jesus. This event is designed for children who are asking questions about their faith journey and those who have already trusted Christ. This class walks through 10 Gospel truths in a way that elementary-age kids can understand. Many children know the Bible is made up of lots of different stories, but we want kids to see that all the stories fit together to tell the bigger story of how God saves sinners through His Son, Jesus Christ. The class uses a variety of illustrations to create a visual timeline from Genesis to Revelation. One of our goals through this class is to equip families to guide conversations at home about what it means to trust & follow Jesus. We also let the kids pick out a new, age-appropriate Bible at this time.

For more information about the Lead Me Class, please email the Children’s Pastor, Brooke Harrison.

For more information about our Lead Me Class, or for information on how to lead your child to Christ, click here.

We need a LARGE team to help prepare for and clean up the Christmas Shoppe!  It’s a huge undertaking & we can use your hands.

Below are lists of days we will be sorting donations, bagging gifts, setting up, and cleaning up after the Christmas Shoppe.  Daytime and weekend volunteer spots are available, see the sign-up for details.  If you’d like to volunteer to be on the team, click HERE!

Sorting & Organizing Dates 

• December 3
• December 4
• December 5
• December 6
• December 10
• December 11

Set Up Dates 

• December 1 (we’ll need several trucks this day)
• December 8

Clean Up

• December 14  (we’ll need several trucks this day)

We need a team to help give the gifts on December 12, 13, & 14. We’ll need lots of volunteers to make it possible.

Sign up to join the team, click HERE! (Children can come to serve alongside their parent/s but they will need to stay with you as we don’t have childcare. When signing up a child you can list them in the comment field under your slot, they don’t need their own slot.)

December 12 (Thursday)

• 8:30 am – 10:30 am
• 10:15 am – 12:15 pm
• 12 pm – 2:15 pm

December 13 (Friday)

• 8:30 am – 10:30 am
• 10:15 am – 12:15 pm
• 12 pm – 2:15 pm

December 14 (Saturday)

• 8:30 am – 10:30 am
• 10:15 am – 12:15 pm
• 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm (We’ll need LOTS help with clean up! Please see the clean up schedule HERE.)

Need Ideas?

Check out The Mission Christmas Amazon Wishlist.  You can mail the gifts directly to Wildwood if you’d like.

Your financial gifts can make a difference this Christmas! It is such a blessing to have the funds to purchase needed gifts. If you don’t enjoy shopping or if you’re unable to get out to shop then a financial gift is a great option for your family. We have shoppers ready to shop the sales this Christmas season so the money can go as far as possible. Any amount is appreciated!

Give Here to give online.

While Christmas is not about the gifts under the tree for us as believers, it is about giving to others and this is one way we can share Christ’s love this Christmas.  We desire to provide 3 gifts for each child The Mission serves (one stocking stuffer in the $1-$4 range, one gift in the $5-$14 range, and one gift in the $15+ range). Along with the 3 gifts the children will receive a Bible!

Last Christmas, donations from Wildwood and other churches helped 600 kids receive gifts & Bibles on Christmas! To accomplish this goal, we need your help! (The most difficult gifts to stock are for teenagers, both girls and boys.)

High School Retreat – High School students are invited to grow in their relationship with Christ and connect with the community at Wildwood. We can’t wait to see you there!

Who: High School Students

What: Theme: Proverbs

When: November 15-17th, 2024

Where: Jacob’s Ladder – 880876, 5418, S 3390 Rd, Chandler, OK 74834

Cost: $99

Wildwood is for our community, one neighbor at a time, and we’re here to support you as you reach out to yours! Our Hi Neighbor! Block Party Trailer is a one of a kind trailer outfitted with popcorn and sno cone machine, yard games, music, and much more. Hi, Neighbor! hosts are even provided with planning tips, checklists, promotion materials, and a gift card for food and supplies. You’ll have everything you need to throw the best block party your guests have ever attended, and it’s completely free! We hope you’ll sign up to host a block party on your street, in your home, or at your neighborhood park today!

For more information, email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org or click here to make a block party reservation.

Wildwood Students Assistant

Myles assists and supports the High School and Middle School ministries at Wildwood.

Family: Mom, Dad and older brother

Education: BA in Economics (University of Oklahoma) and pursuing MDiv from Reformed Theological Seminary

On staff since:  September 2022

One thing you love about Wildwood: How deep the relationships are at Wildwood! I have found community like I never have before and have seen Acts 2:44-45 truly lived out!!

Favorite Book: Body of Divinity by Thomas Watson

Hobbies: Studying theology, golf, working out, & reading!

Our busy schedules can keep us from spending quality time with our children and grandchildren, but Wildwood’s campouts can help!

You’ll spend time building your relationship as you hike, laugh, climb rocks, fish, make s’mores, talk in the tent, and more at the Chickasaw National Recreation Area!

• We cook all the meals for you!
• We have a very special time in the evenings when we speak powerful words of encouragement to our children in a small group setting.
• On Friday evening Worship Pastor Greg Hill brings his telescopes and we see God’s glory as we look at and learn about the stars and planets.
• After our s’mores, we do Tent Time questions with our children; checking in to see how life is going and looking at a Bible passage to apply to our lives.
• After a morning devotional on Saturday, the day is free!

We’d love to have you join us!

Wildwood’s Father/Daughter Campout is Oct. 18-20. Come for the whole weekend or just those days that fit your schedule. All meals are provided.

Click HERE to register.

Our busy schedules can keep us from spending quality time with our children and grandchildren, but Wildwood’s campouts can help!

You’ll spend time building your relationship as you hike, laugh, climb rocks, fish, make s’mores, talk in the tent, and more at the Chickasaw National Recreation Area!

• We cook all the meals for you!
• We have a very special time in the evenings when we speak powerful words of encouragement to our children in a small group setting.
• On Friday evening Worship Pastor Greg Hill brings his telescopes and we see God’s glory as we look at and learn about the stars and planets.
• After our s’mores, we do Tent Time questions with our children; checking in to see how life is going and looking at a Bible passage to apply to our lives.
• After a morning devotional on Saturday, the day is free to enjoy!

We’d love to have you join us!

Wildwood’s Father/Son Campout is November 1-3.  Come for the whole weekend or just those days that fit your schedule. All meals are provided. Click HERE to register.

GREATNIGHTS is our largest middle school event of the year, it is the perfect event for your 6th – 8th grader to invite friends and build lasting memories with peers. Registration for NIGHT 1 will close on Sept. 15th and REOPEN for additional signups for NIGHT 2 on Sept. 22.

WHO: Middle School-only event

WHAT: GREATNIGHTS – Night 1

WHEN: Friday, September 20th from 7-10 pm

WHERE: Urban Air in Moore

ACTIVITIES: Pizza, VR, Ropes Course, Trampolines, etc.

WHO: Middle School-only event

WHAT: GREATNIGHTS – Night 2

WHEN: Friday, October 25th from 8-11 pm

WHERE: Wildwood Community Church

ACTIVITIES: Silent Disco, Karaoke, inflatables, and lots more fun-filled activities.

The Mission (previously known as Mission Norman) is a non-profit corporation organized and operated to minister to a hurting world, particularly to persons who are homeless, by providing transitional housing, clothing, food, counseling, and other services as a ministry founded upon and carried out for the love of God and His son, Jesus Christ. Each year Wildwood partners with other churches and Mission Norman to bring Christmas to those in our community who need some extra support. For more information on the Mission Norman Christmas Shoppe, click here – wildwoodchurch.org/missionnorman

For more information about Mission Norman and how you can get involved, please visit missionnorman.org or email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org.

The vision of Angels is to be the leading source of support and hope for children and families in the foster care system. There are many ways to get involved and serve with Angels Foster Family Network, including helping with events, donation coordination, preparation of freezer meals for foster families, and more. If you want more information about how to get involved in the ministry of foster care, visit https://angelsfosterokc.org/ or send an email to outreach@wildwoodchurch.org. You can donate to their wishlist HERE.

If you would like more information about how you can get involved, please email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org to purchase from the ongoing needs list, click HERE.

Food & Shelter is a local organization with a simple mission: To feed those who are hungry and wrap our arms around the lost and alone, helping them find their way back home.  The services provided are the most basic needs of a human being: food & shelter.  A team from Wildwood serves lunch monthly at Food & Shelter and we would love to have you serve with us.

For more information about this ministry and how you can get involved, please visit foodandshelterinc.org or email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org. Donate to their wishlist HERE.

Childcare is currently full. Email emilygrave@wildwoodchurch.org to be put on our waitlist.

Excellent childcare programming is available for kids birth-5th grade on a first come, first served basis with registration. We will offer care for school-age children; however, we will not be able to facilitate any form of virtual learning.

On Thursday mornings, children’s programming will include a Bible story, games, and appropriate crafts. Take the opportunity to study the Word knowing that your children will also be hiding God’s Word in their hearts!

Mission Trips: We offer both domestic and international mission trips for our Middle
school and High School Students each summer. We have traveled to Mexico, Nicaragua,
Denver CO, and Kansas City.

Wildwood has partnered with Awana to help parents develop spiritually strong children who faithfully follow Jesus Christ. Our Awana program offers a proven approach for evangelizing and discipling kids in the church and community. Our goal is to reach kids and families with the Gospel, disciple children to follow Christ, & equip parents to train and equip their children. Awana meets on Wednesday evenings from 6:00-7:30 pm throughout the school year (September-mid April).

Registration Fees are $40 per child (this includes one book and covers the cost of activities, awards, and special events). Registration is OPEN!

GriefShare is a special weekly seminar/support group for people who are grieving the death of someone close. It is a place where you can be around people who understand how you feel and the pain of your loss. At GriefShare, you will learn valuable information that will help you through this difficult time in your life.

For more information about GriefShare contact the church office at 405-329-3939 or fill out this form.

Fall Bible Study Registrations will open August 11th!

Wildwood Students Intern

Lauren helps plan events and promote growth within Widwood Students!

Family:

Education: Sophomore at OU

On staff since:  September 2022

One thing you love about Wildwood: I love the community. Throughout my entire life I have always felt so loved and cared for here.

Something you might not know about me: I’m dying to buy myself a Golden Retriever.

Hobbies: I love wedding videography and cooking/baking!

Who we are:

We are missionaries serving in Orlando, Florida with Cru. Matt was born and raised in California and attended Baylor University. Elizabeth is from OKC and attended OU, during which time she was involved at Wildwood in the College Life ministry. We have 1 toddler, Caleb, and 1 baby boy due in September. We enjoy hosting people, discipleship and mentoring, and watching college football.

What we do:

After serving overseas for 8 years in Italy, we returned Stateside to serve with Cru in capacity roles. Matt serves with the Risk Management team, which equips thousands of missionaries to be sent Stateside and abroad in a way that is sustainable and responsible. Elizabeth serves in an HR role, equipping ministry teams to be healthier and more effective together so that more people can be reached with the Gospel. While we served overseas, we experienced the importance of people serving in these capacity roles, to keep missionaries safe and healthy on the field. We are thankful now for the chance to serve in these roles and pray that our efforts will increase Cru’s fruitfulness as we pursue the Great Commission.

Jordan Evangelical Theological Seminary is equipping spiritual leaders for planting and strengthening churches in the Arab world.

Satya & Prasha are reaching residents of a large Asian city with the Gospel and building the Church.

For over 60 years, the Word of Life seminary near São Paulo has been preparing future Christian leaders who come from around Brazil and other countries, to work on undergraduate and graduate degrees focusing on Bible exposition and sound theology. Graduates from Word of Life serve as pastors, Christian educators, counselors, and missionaries throughout the world.

Justin & Sarah serve with StuMo (Student Mobilization) at the University of Alabama. The Fergusons seek to share the Gospel with non-Christians and disciple young men and women toward maturity in Christ.

Ali serves with StuMo (Student Mobilization) at the University of Alabama. She strives to present the Gospel to non-Christians and disciple girls toward maturity in Christ.

Who are we?              

We are Richard and Yohanna de Oliveira, and we are Brazilians. We grew up in a family that didn’t know the Gospel. Richard was converted at the age of 17 and Yohanna at the age of 11.

We met while training at Word of Life Bible College in 1994 and were married in 1999. Our daughter Ruth was born in 2001 and Nathan in 2003. Ruth and Nathan are currently attending Liberty University.

Our ministry history

After we completed our theology degree, Richard served as pastor of his own church for seven years (1998-2004) in the city of Atibaia, in the state of São Paulo (southeastern Brazil).

In January 2005, we became missionaries with Word of Life and moved to Belém do Pará, in northern Brazil. Our ministry focus was teaching, and in 2007 Richard also became president of the Bible College, whose aim is to provide missionary training for the students.

After serving in this region for 15 years (2005-2019), Richard was invited to serve as the Executive Director of the Word of Life Bible Institute in Hungary. We moved with the whole family in 2020 and served there until June 2023.

What are we doing?

Richard was invited to return to Word of Life in Brazil, where we had served for 15 years, to begin the process of succession in the overall leadership of the ministry. Currently, in addition to the Bible College, Word of Life North has a youth ministry, a family ministry, a school (from pre-K to high school), and the operational part of the ministry. We plan to start this ministry in August 2024.

Middle School & High School meet Sundays at 9:45 am & 11 am

This is a time for students to connect with one another, have some fun, and hear a relevant, Bible-based message. Join us for a combined service for Middle & High School students at 9:45 am and separate services for Middle School & High School at 11 am. Where we cover topics pertaining to each ministry. Choose the time that works best for your family!

Wednesdays 6-7:30 pm for Middle School (6th-8th grade) & 7:30-9 pm for High School (9th-12th grade)

This is a time for students to connect with one another in small groups, build community, and dive deeply into God’s Word.

We build a dynamic small group experience for Middle & High School students that is led by incredible leaders and grounded in God’s Word. Our students enjoy time together, worship together, then break into small groups (grade & gender specific) where they will be exploring a book of the Bible. If you have a student looking for community & a place to grow spiritually, Wildwood Students MIDWEEK is the place to be! Meets September-April.

Navigators is a ministry that shares the gospel of Jesus and helps people grow by creating spiritual generations of believers. Its purpose is the discipline of Christians with a particular emphasis on enabling them to share their faith with others. Through Life-to-Life® relationships, The Navigators discipleship fulfills the message of 2 Timothy 2:2: “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses, entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others (NIV).”

For more information about this ministry and how you can get involved, please visit navigators.org or email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org.

Dear Women of The Well… A Note from the Leadership Team

Many hours of planning are involved in developing and creating an atmosphere where we prayerfully hope weary moms can come and be refreshed physically, spiritually, emotionally, and mentally. While all are welcome at The Well, we are limited on space. If you are signing up to attend The Well, we welcome you to the table, but we also ask that you recognize that one less seat is now available for others. The leadership team of The Well would like to ask all women of The Well to please commit, as far as it depends upon you, to attend all sessions, to arrive on time, and to participate in table discussions.

*this request is covered in grace, because we know that life happens!*

Proverbs 16:9 “The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.”

Additionally, Wildwood has been very generous in providing a budget for The Well that includes free children’s care and biblical teaching/programming. We would like to ask that women of The Well take advantage of our children’s ministry if necessary to attend The Well. We also welcome mamas who need to bring their nursing babies into The Well sessions. However, we ask that if you do agree to sign up for our children’s ministry that you would use it respectfully in regards to both the sanctuary time inside The Well and the planning done by Emily and her team to make sure each child is cared for. If anything changes in the needs of your child(ren) we ask that you let us know promptly. We desire to be good stewards of the resources Wildwood has so generously provided to us and we thank you for joining us in this effort.

We are looking forward to another great season of The Well! We are eager to see God trade our broken cisterns for the living water of His Word and His people and for Him to move in powerful ways among us!

Who are we?

We are missionaries who serve in Mexico with Avant Ministries.  Zac began attending Wildwood when he was in the 7^th grade.  Jennifer grew up attending Wildwood (her dad is Wildwood’s teaching pastor, Bruce Hess).  We have been serving in Mexico since 2015.

We have two beautiful children, Summer and Max.  We enjoy spending time with family and friends.  We have a passion for evangelism, discipleship, and church planting.  We want people to know and believe in our Savior, Jesus Christ.

What are we doing?

We have two primary ministry roles in Mexico.  We are part of the only Bible Church in our town.  Zac serves on the leadership and preaching team.  Our goal is to disciple and train up leaders in our church who will be able to run and lead the church on their own.  We want to make disciples who in turn are able to make disciples.  Our second role is our outreach ministry.  We have a gym where Zac teaches self-defense, and Jennifer teaches Zumba and workout classes.  We use this platform as a way to meet people, invite them to our church, and share with them the love of Jesus.

Who are we?

We’re Hayden and Nikki Moore, missionaries in Tokyo, Japan with Student Mobilization (StuMo)! We have two daughters, Kennedy and Austin, both born here in Tokyo, Japan. Hayden has lived here since he graduated from OU in 2017, and Nikki moved here in 2019. Nikki also attended OU, working with StuMo there after graduating before moving overseas for missions.

As a family, we love being outside together, exploring the city, and going to our favorite sushi restaurant. We are in Japan because we have a desire for all to know the one true God and his Son, Jesus Christ (John 17:3.)

What are we doing?

With StuMo Japan, we lead a team of 9 other missionaries, focusing on building relationships, evangelism, and discipleship with college students, young adults, and young families, while planting churches among these communities. Our dream is to see mature laborers and thriving church communities revolutionize all of Japan for Christ from the bustling megacities to the quiet countryside. Tokyo is home to more than 2 million college students, and is the largest city in the world, with less than 1% of the population following Jesus – a perfect place to bring the gospel to those who need to hear it in their heart language (so, yes, we have learned to speak Japanese!) We meet people on university campuses, parks, and other hot spots in the city. We enjoy hosting others & events in our home, building deep relationships with friends, sharing the gospel, and helping them establish their own relationship with God.

Who are we?

Chris is from Dallas and has been with Cru since 1996. OU was his first assignment (1996-2000), leading to the connection with Wildwood. From Norman, Chris moved to Spain, where he served for five years reaching out to college students. Wildwood began supporting Chris financially at that time.

He and Anna (from Indiana) met in 2005, got married in 2007, and currently live in Orlando. They have four young children: Samuel, Elinor, Philip, and Adelle.

What are we doing?

While in Spain, Chris developed the evangelistic tool called “Soularium” which has become the most-used tool for sparking spiritual conversations among Cru staff and students here in the U.S. and in countries around the world.

Chris and Anna now both split their time between working with students on campus and serving at a national level at Cru’s headquarters in Orlando. At the University of Central Florida, they minister through Destino, Cru’s outreach to Latino college students in the U.S.

In addition to working with students, Chris serves in the Office of Oneness and Diversity, focusing on helping Cru become a “home” where men and women of all backgrounds and ages thrive, which will result in both greater reflection of God Himself and greater effectiveness in sharing Christ with people of all kinds.

Anna serves on Destino’s national People and Culture (HR) team. She is the longest-serving staff member in Destino, having served since 2001.

Who are we?

We serve Jesus with The Navigators Military Ministry in Virginia. John is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and Shannon of the University of Texas. After marrying in 1994, Shannon left her job as a United flight attendant and became a full-time Navy wife. While on active duty at Tinker AFB (1995-1999), we became a part of the Wildwood family. In 2016-2017 we also spent a sabbatical living in OKC and attending Wildwood. We returned to Norman from 2020-2022 during COVID after serving a final time back on active duty in Guam from 2017-2020.

We have three married adult daughters and two grandchildren: Cana & Preston Radford who have Connor & Cora, Adalia & David Socha, and Moriah & Chris Cavitt.

What are we doing?

Together in partnership with local churches, military chaplains, and other mission organizations, we continue to focus on bringing Christ to military members and their families serving around the world. The vision remains to advance the Gospel of Jesus and His Kingdom within the military – and beyond that into the nations.

What is our mission’s story?

In 2001, the Fitzgeralds left Navy active duty and answered God’s call to work with The Navigators. They focused on reaching future military officers, helping them know Jesus, make Him known, and help others do the same. Their first assignment was at Texas A&M University (2002-2004) with the Aggie Corps of Cadets.

From 2004-2008, they worked among Aussie cadets and midshipmen at the Australian Defense Force Academy in Canberra. Then, from 2011-2016, John served as Regional Leader for The US Navigators Mid-Atlantic Collegiate (MAC) area, responsible for the care, development, and leadership of staff serving on over a dozen campuses in VA, MD, PA, NJ, DE, & DC.

Since John and Shannon have primarily focused on life-on-life evangelism, discipleship, and leadership training among members of the armed forces, he stayed in the Navy reserves. This enabled them to remain insiders to military family life and continue to serve the nation. Besides active duty in Guam from 2017-2020, John was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010-2011. He retired from the Navy Reserves in October 2020.

How do we recharge?

In our recreational time, you will find John exploring military history – especially WWII (including via SCUBA) – road cycling, and skiing. Shannon loves dance (especially Zumba), hiking in the woods, deepening friendships, and bringing beauty and organization to the home through serving as a certified consultant for Clutter Bug and Color Me Beautiful. We both love connecting with friends and traveling to explore new places together, mostly to enjoy God’s beauty and presence outdoors.

Who are we?  

Phil and Marianne have been connected to Wildwood for over 25 years, with countless teams of youth and others coming from the church to minister with them during that time.

What are we doing?

Phil formed Mexico Missions in 1990 and moved there with his family in September 1990. In the beginning, they give considerable emphasis to film evangelism. They would travel from town to town, set up a screen, show evangelistic films, and give an invitation for people to trust Christ. Over the years hundreds of thousands came to know Christ in this way.

In recent years, the Chains have been known for their backpack programs. In the towns they visit, they have attracted large crowds as various health professionals (volunteers from both the US and Mexico) provide services to the needy, and children receive simple backpacks filled with toys and school supplies. At the same time, the setting provides multiple opportunities for Phil and Marianne, among others, to present the Good News of Jesus Christ.

For six years Phil and Marianne lived in a 28’ trailer with their four boys. At that time they purchased a property in Cancun, Mexico, and started building the mission base. The Yucatan peninsula and the southernmost states of Mexico are now among those with the highest percentage of evangelical Christians in the entire country.

While the Chains continue to travel throughout the country, they now work primarily out of Puebla in central Mexico. Otherwise, Norman is considered their home base.

After 6 years on staff with The Navigators’ military ministry in California, we moved to Norman, Oklahoma in 1991. There we shifted to international student ministry and worked on graduate degrees at OU. We heard great things about Wildwood’s youth group, and we started going there when our adopted daughter was in middle school.

I (David) was recalled to active duty after 911 and served in Japan and Iraq. When my tours were over, I commuted to Dallas Theological Seminary and completed a masters in biblical counseling in 2009. We moved to Colorado Springs to join The Navigators’ Pastoral Counseling Team.

Two months after our move, I was paralyzed in a bicycle accident. God has used my quadriplegia in powerful ways with my counseling, with Jill’s book for caregivers, We’re Stronger than We Look (published by NavPress), and in our life together.

Our team provides counseling to Navigator staff in the United States and around the world. We deal with everything from marital struggles to trauma and grief. We also train apprentices to give this kind of care.

This class meets during our 9:45 & 11 am services on Sundays. All children enrolled in this program must complete paperwork prior to starting. Stop by the Children’s Welcome Desk to find out more, or contact us at 405-329-3939 for more information on our special needs ministry.

Join us for VBS 2024! VBS is open to all kids from 4 years old (must be 4 by June 4th) – entering 5^th grade. Registration will open on March 1st!

To partner with us for the BEST WEEK OF SUMMER” and serve during VBS, click here!

Pen Pal Prison Ministry is a secure letter writing ministry which offers encouragement, guidance, and Christian friendship to incarcerated individuals through correspondence. Most of the inmates who are reaching out for a pen pal are already Christian, curious about Christianity, or just looking for a positive friendship. Your letters can make a difference in their lives for eternity.

For more information about this ministry and how you can get involved, please email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org.

Assistant Early Childhood Director

Sasha oversees the early childhood large group and 8:30 service hour.

Family: Husband- Jake; Sons- August and Leo

Education: Bachelors of Science in Hospitality Management from the University of North Texas

On staff since:  July 2023

One thing you love about Wildwood: The volunteers and staff have such a heart for ministering to and teaching others about God’s love.

Something you might not know about me: I love being creative

Hobbies: Adventuring outdoors with family, playing music, DIY projects

Adult Ministry Associate

Janet provides organizational support to adult ministries.

Family: Matt spouse, adult children Connor and Grace

Education: BS in Elementary Education

On staff since:  2023

One thing you love about Wildwood: The community

Listening to: Bible Recap, praise and worship music

Hobbies:  Jogging, healthy cooking ideas, reading, boating

Are you a primary or secondary caregiver of someone? This group provides educational resources and emotional support to those who are caring for a loved one. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at noon in Room 2 at Wildwood. All meetings are open to the community. Email adultministry@wildwoodchurch.org or call the church office at (405) 329-3939 to confirm meeting dates and to receive more information.

Psalm 5:3: “In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.”

It is an honor to bring our burdens before the Lord. Members may post requests to the MyWildwood Prayer group or prayer requests can be submitted to our Pastors privately. 

In order to reach our Care Pastor, please call the church office at 405-329-3939. If you are experiencing an emergency, please call 911.

Join Pastor Bruce Hess and many other experienced speakers at FamilyLife’s Weekend to Remember!

Jobs, kids, activities, errands, and life have a way of overwhelming a marriage. Before you know it, other things are taking priority above what’s most important: your spouse and family. FamilyLife’s Weekend to Remember® marriage getaway is your chance to make a change.

The Weekend to Remember getaway is not a large counseling session, and you will not be asked to participate in small groups. Rather, you will receive marriage-changing principles that you can take home and apply to your daily lives that will strengthen your marriage. During the weekend, through the teaching and couple’s projects, you will learn how to:

*Receive your spouse as a gift.

*Clarify your role as a husband or wife.

*Resolve conflict in the relationship.

*Express forgiveness to one another.

*Maintain a vital sexual connection.

*Increase your commitment, creating an even deeper level of intimacy

Our speakers will show you exactly how to pursue a marriage that really works through stories of their own breakthroughs and blunders. We want you to leave the weekend with encouragement, hope, and practical tools to build and grow your relationship. That’s why we call this a Weekend to Remember.

A discount code is available for members and friends of Wildwood. Please call the church office for more information- 405-329-3939.

Church historian John Hannah once quipped that all of us are short people “sitting on the shoulders of giants.” Hannah’s basic point was that followers of Jesus today live and operate as recipients of the faithfulness of God over time.  In the largest sense of this, Christians today embrace the truth that was passed down from generation to generation since the time of Christ (2 Timothy 2:2). This principle is also true, however, in a local sense. God has been faithful to Wildwood Community Church over time, therefore, we want to give glory to God by retelling the story of His faithfulness to our church over the past 50 years.

Wildwood was officially incorporated as a church in 1968 after having begun as a Bible study with OU college students in 1966.

Over the last 50 years, Wildwood has met in multiple locations, including two different home garages, the parlor at McFarlin Methodist Church, the Seventh Day Adventist Church facility,  the building currently owned by Northeast Baptist Church (a facility Wildwood built in 1976), and our current facility – the former Redlands Racquetball Club — which Wildwood purchased and moved into in 1986.

God has blessed us with amazingly consistent and faithful leadership over the past four decades. Following church planter Dick Gerbrandt, we have had only three full-time Senior Pastors: Lyle Cunningham (1974-78), Bruce A. Hess (1979-2016), and Mark Robinson (2016 – present).

On top of having consistent leadership, our strategic location allows us to impact the city of Norman, Tinker Air Force Base, the University of Oklahoma, and beyond (we have partnerships with ministries on 6 continents, including a focus on the nations of Latvia and Mexico.)

From our origin as a small Bible study that met in a garage to a growing church body today, we continue to value close community, in-depth Bible study, and an authentic relationship with God through our Savior Jesus Christ. It is our desire to glorify God by shining as Christ’s light in our homes, our community, and the world. Come shine with us!

Adult Ministry Assistant

Madeline works to build a Young Adult ministry at Wildwood with the support of the Adult ministry team.

Family: Husband: Colson, Son: Chandler, Dogs: Duke and Dakota

Education: Bachelor’s degree, major: organizational communication and minor in nonprofit management from OU

On staff since:  June 2022

One thing you love about Wildwood: Being a part of a multigenerational body of believers and our commitment to preaching the truth of God’s word.

Favorite Book/movie: The Lucky One, The Freedom of Self Forgetfulness
American Sniper, She’s the Man, August Rush

Hobbies: Cycling, reading, baking, scrapbooking

We would love to have you join us in giving to what the Lord is doing through Wildwood in Norman and around the world. Click HERE to partner with us financially.

Our Children’s Baptism Class is a family class about what it means to follow through with baptism after a child has made the decision to follow Jesus. All children must attend with a parent. The Baptism class will take place on Sunday Mornings at 11 am. For more information about attending Baptism Class, please email the Children’s Pastor, Brooke Harrison.

This class walks 4^th & 5^th graders through teachings on communion (what it is and why is it important); how to follow Jesus together to the glory of God and how to share our testimony with others. Children will receive a resource that helps them develop the daily habits of following Jesus. 5^th graders will receive a new ESV Bible before promoting to Student Ministry.

For more information about the Following Jesus Class, please email our Children’s Pastor, Brooke Harrison.

We would love to talk to you if you believe Special Needs Ministry might be helpful for your family. We will work with you to find the best solutions for your child’s unique needs. Email Emily here or call the office at (405)329-3939. On Sunday mornings, simply stop by the Welcome Desk in the Children’s Building.

Our Special Needs Class meets in the One to One room, downstairs in the Children’s Building. This classroom is equipped with gel lap pads (these help engage the kids while we teach), a trampoline, a crash pad, a fidget box, and a visual schedule along with other visual supports.

In addition to the specialized equipment, the volunteers working in this classroom have been trained on how to serve our children with special needs.

Our staff works closely with the families in developing activities and lesson preparation that best fits each child’s individual needs.

Our Special Needs Director will work with your family to determine the most effective way to help your child worship God. Some children work well with a Buddy in a typical classroom. Other children feel more comfortable in our Special Needs classroom, called One to One.

Wildwood is FOR children worshiping Jesus together to the glory of God.

We believe that God loves and cares for all children, and we will do everything we can to support this mission of supporting and equipping ALL children in worshiping Jesus together to the glory of God.

The purpose of Wildwood’s special needs ministry is to facilitate inclusion inside the life of the church for the individual with additional needs and for their family.

In support of our broader church mission, the goals of the special needs ministry are to lead families affected by unique needs into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.

The Awana Grand Prix is one of our favorite events and takes place in March. This is a great chance for kids to be creative and enjoy healthy competition in a fun and exciting environment.

TRUTH & TRAINING (3RD – 5TH GRADE)
The name, Truth & Training, reflects the passion of Awana to teach 3rd through 5th-grade boys and girls the truth of God’s Word and to train them to follow Christ in their daily lives. Today’s young people will become tomorrow’s church leaders. T&T is the program that teaches the leaders of tomorrow — today, using exciting features to get kids pumped about God’s Word.

T&T is equipped with a variety of dynamic tools to accomplish this mission:

▪ Handbooks of increasing difficulty which teach children that life’s ultimate adventure is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ

▪ Weekly meetings that expose children to the gospel message, Scripture memory, Bible study, awards, team-oriented games, and loads of fun

▪ A Bible-centered curriculum that helps kids build a firm foundation for their faith, hide God’s Word in their heart, and apply the truths of Scripture to their daily lives

Sparks, the Awana club for children in kindergarten through second grade builds on the material taught in our preschool clubs. The curriculum takes kids a step deeper into God’s Word while giving them regular opportunities to hear the gospel and trust in Jesus Christ. After being immersed in solid foundational teaching at the preschool level, boys and girls frequently understand their need to trust Christ as their personal Savior while in Sparks.

The Sparks program is firmly grounded in Scripture. The three handbooks feature:

▪ Basic truths about God, Jesus Christ, salvation, and the Bible

▪ A clear and consistent presentation of the Gospel message

▪ An increased emphasis on Scripture memory over our preschool materials. In three years, a child will learn and review over 65 verses, many of which cover salvation and key Christian doctrine, establishing a foundation of biblical wisdom.

Sparks club meetings combine learning with fun to create an atmosphere of irresistible excitement for churched and unchurched kids alike. Club meetings are divided into three segments:

▪ Bible teaching, worship, award presentations, and the Gospel message

▪ Small group interaction and completion of Bible-based lessons

▪ Age-appropriate games

Cubbies is the AWANA Club for preschoolers during the two years prior to regular kindergarten, usually three and four-year-olds.

The Awana Club for preschoolers is built on two premises:

1. Young children can and should receive spiritual training.

2. Home is the primary place for spiritual training.

Our preschool program meets these needs through …

Fun – and lots of it!
 Awana is fun with a purpose – to reach and train kids for Jesus Christ. Games, puppets, crafts, awards, and other activities transform our preschool program into a lively weekly experience where fun and learning go hand in hand.

During the 9:45 and 11:00 am services:
Birth through PreK children will meet in the downstairs area of the Children’s Building.
Kindergarten through fifth-grade children will meet in the upstairs area of the Children’s Building.

During the 8:30 am service:
Children will join their parents for worship in the Worship Center.

Throughout all of our programs, we are intentional with making the most of every opportunity that we have with a child. We are fortunate to staff all of our environments with the highest quality of volunteers who have been properly screened and trained. We follow systematic check-in and dismissal procedures throughout the use of computerized check-in stations. If we need to contact a parent during a worship service, we have the ability to page them.

Wildwood is a big place and we want you to feel at home as soon as possible. The Children’s Ministry building is located at the back of the church. There is a large circle drive in the back for convenient pick-up or drop-off, but there is also access to the Children’s Building through the Gathering Hall or through the rear entrance.

If you have an infant or toddler, please bring all the necessary items (bottle, pacifier, special blanket, diapers, etc.) and clearly label each item. You will soon find that our volunteers will do everything they can to make sure your child is well taken care of!

When you arrive you will be asked to fill out a Family Registration Card, and our Welcome Team will assist you in registering your children (5th grade and younger) into our computer check-in system. The computer system will provide you name tags as well as a pick-up receipt with a number to be used for paging and pick up.

Our goal is to provide kids with a weekly experience that is fun, relationally driven, and packed with Biblical truths. It is an interactive time of teaching Biblical truths, worshiping together & hands-on activities. Our teachers are committed to making the most of the time that we have with this age group. We believe that we have a unique opportunity to reach these kids with the gospel of Jesus Christ during the elementary years.

In our early childhood classrooms, we provide a secure, clean & loving environment where the youngest children will have a fun time learning about God’s love. Biblical truths are taught through Bible stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts, organized games & even through play! We believe that children learn best through repetition along with engaging all learning styles. Our desire is to help parents build a foundation of faith in their kids.

Reaching out to residents of a large city in the Middle East.

Serving with VISA (Visiting International Students Assistance) at OU.

Residing in Norman with ongoing ministry in Brazil with Commission to Every Nation (CTEN). There they seek to mobilize Brazilian Christians and local churches to embrace missions, and train leaders in partnership with Dallas Theological Seminary.

Living in Orlando, FL, and serving with the Jesus Film division of Cru. Jeff helps equip hundreds of staff and others with the latest resources as they share the Gospel with others worldwide.

Serving with Pioneers in Eastern Europe and reaching out to non-Christians with the Good News.

Founder and director of Latvian Christian Radio (LKR).

Serving with Stoneworks International in Romania with a focus on church planting among ethnic Hungarians.

Serving as a team leader with Pioneers in Eastern Europe.

Serving in France with Greenhouse in Paris with a focus on the evangelism of French in a culturally relevant manner.

Leading an effort to start campus ministries in East Asia with Cru.

Evangelizing and discipling young people in Japan.

Serving with Ethnos360 in Papua New Guinea among the Pei tribe. While the entire family shines as the light of Jesus in pointing people to the Gospel, Chris is also engaged in translating the Scriptures into the native language.

Serving in the Middle East with a non-profit while engaging in Bible translation and outreach.

Coordinating Bible translation for minority peoples in Asia.

Serving in West Asia as the business administrator for an exportation company and seeking to evangelize their neighbors and friends.

Evangelizing and discipling university students in West Asia with Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ).

Facilities Assistant

Tyler assists the Facilities Director in maintaining and improving our building.

Family:

Education: 

On staff since:  September 2022

One thing you love about Wildwood:

Something you might not know about me: 

Hobbies:

Local Outreach Director

Naomi facilitates the church’s outreach in our community.

To contact Naomi, click here

Family: Married to Matthew and together they have three children: Abby, Jacob, and Robby

Education: BA in Public Relations with a minor in Business Administration from Baylor University, MS in Journalism from Texas A&M University

On staff since: June 2017

One thing you love about Wildwood: I love that Wildwood is Gospel-centered and that our heart as a church is to follow Jesus together for the glory of God.

Listening to: Shane & Shane, The Bible Recap podcast

Favorite movie: The Sandlot

Hobbies: Running, reading, and traveling

Favorite book besides the Bible: The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah & The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom

You might not know about me: I love summer camp! Matthew and I met as counselors at Sky Ranch in Van, TX the summer after our sophomore year in college.

Click here to learn more about Local Outreach

Merge Small Groups are environments of 6-16 young adults in their twenties or thirties gathering regularly for the purpose of spiritual growth within community. Groups fellowship, pray, study God’s word, and basically “live life” together in Christ. 

The day, time, and frequency groups meet vary. Our groups meet on different nights during the week. They either meet twice a month or once weekly at a time and location convenient to group members.  

If you’re interested in joining one of our existing Merge small groups or starting a new Merge small group, fill out our small group form. 

https://wildwood.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/254/responses/new

MERGE:  Wildwood’s Young Adult Ministry

Wildwood is FOR young adults following Jesus together to the glory of God. Adults in their twenties and thirties come from varying life phases. Merge exists to create a place for young adults to merge together, for connection, worship, service, and biblical study within the multigenerational church. Click HERE to learn more.

If this is your first time joining us for worship, click HERE to fill out our Howdy form.

Let us know how we can be praying for you this week. It is an honor to bring our burdens before the Lord. Prayer requests & Praises can be submitted to our Pastors privately by clicking HERE

Sunday College Life

Many churches and foster/adopt ministries want to do more, but simply lack the connection to vulnerable and isolated families in their community. CarePortal is a ministry that seeks to connect churches with the needs of families right in our own community. These needs, as identified by a social service worker, are passed onto the church through a database housed at careportal.org.

Care Pastor

John cares for the members of Wildwood through counseling and referrals, hospital visitation and follows up with those in need.

To contact John, click here

Family:  Lori (wife) and children Chris, Elizabeth, and Anna

Education:  BA Communication University of Oklahoma, Master’s of Theology and a Doctorate of Ministry from Dallas Theological Seminary

On staff since:  2001

One Thing I love about Wildwood:  Our church family is eager to grow in their relationship with Christ and one another and to serve, love and encourage those around them.

Listening to:  KLove and Air1, mixed in with music from movies, a bit of country and whatever my teenage kids want me to sample 🙂

You might not know ______ about John:  He proposed to Lori in the old Worship Center downstairs at Wildwood.

Hobbies:  Being with Lori and the kids, coaching soccer, teaching and fishing

Click Here to learn more about the Care Ministry

Click Here to learn more about Campouts and Retreats

Facilities Assistant

Braden assists the Facilities Director in maintaining and improving our building.

Family:

Education: Studying to be an Architectural Engineer

On staff since: June 2019

One thing you love about Wildwood: I love the consistency of their biblical views and solid leadership. Wildwood is centered on biblical truth and doesn’t get divisive on opinionated subject matter.

Listening to: Tears for Fears, Stevie Ray Vaughn, ZZ Top, U2, Toto, Queen

Hobbies: Board games with friends, reading, and drumming

StuMo (Student Mobilization) is a ministry focused on building spiritual leaders for Christ from college campuses all over the world. Their passion is to help young men and women embrace their faith and grow as spiritual leaders for future generations and to equip them to live for Christ wherever they may go.

For more information about StuMo and how you can get involved, please visit pioneerstumo.org or email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org.

CRU (Campus Crusade for Christ) is a Christian parachurch organization that was originally geared towards college students. Their mission is to win, build, and send believers who will multiply their faith in others. Since its founding, Cru has expanded its focus to include adults and even high school students.

For more information about CRU and how you can get involved, please visit cru.org or email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org.

Creation Care is a group at Wildwood dedicated to being good stewards of God’s creation. We created the group at Wildwood to increase awareness of environmental sustainability at the church through recommendations and actions regarding recycling, energy efficiency, education, and more.

If you are interested in assisting with these efforts, please email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org

YoungLife is a ministry that strives to provide life-changing experiences while preparing kids for a life-long relationship with Christ and a love for His word, His mission, and the local church. YoungLife introduces adolescents to Jesus Christ by helping them grow in their faith by meeting in groups at high schools, college campuses, and summer camps.

For more information about YoungLife and how you can get involved, please visit norman.younglife.org or email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org.

The purpose of Search Ministries is to provide a safe place to ask life’s big questions. By developing authentic relationships built around these questions, they offer honest answers and initiate meaningful conversations. Their mission is simple: inviting adults to take the next step toward God and our vision is big: every adult in every city invited to know and share Jesus.

For more information about this ministry and how you can get involved, please visit searchnational.org or email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org.

Moore Faith Medical Clinic provides faith-based free medical care and prescriptions to the uninsured and underserved in our area. The organization focuses on loving and serving the community while recognizing the God-given dignity of each human life. Are you a medical provider who could volunteer your talents? Would you enjoy greeting patients or assisting with clerical tasks? How about providing a meal for the medical professionals who often come to the Clinic directly from their regular jobs?

For more information about this ministry and how you can get involved, please visit moorefaithclinic.org or email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org.

Wildwood is proud to support Grace Home, a ministry home that provides a place for young mothers who find themselves alone and pregnant with few options to continue their pregnancies. The goal of this ministry is to provide a safe haven to expectant mothers with prenatal care, good nutrition, and exercise.

For more information about Grace Home and how you can get involved, please visit gracehomeok.org or email outreach@wildwoodchurch.org.

Early Childhood Director

Jolie oversees children in nursery, toddler, and preschool ministries on Sunday mornings.

To contact Jolie, click here

Family:  Husband – Greg; Sons – Isaac and Hudson

Education:  Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Texas Baptist University

On staff since:  September 2017

Hobbies:  Running my kids to their activities, running, and reading.

Favorite movie:  Little Women

You might not know about me: I love pens and paper calendars. My favorite day is when I get to put all of the dates for a new year into my new calendar.

Elementary Director

Lessye oversees the elementary programs on Sunday mornings.

To contact Lessye, click here

Family: Michael (husband), Zoey, Addison, and Delaney (daughters)

Education: Bachelor of Science from the University of Oklahoma in Health & Exercise Science

On staff since:  November 2015

Hobbies:  Family time, exploring nature, staying active, listening to podcasts, drinking coffee

Favorite Movie:  Home Alone

One thing you might not know about Lessye: I’m very competitive and love a good board game.