Fellowship Breakfast Before Church

Sunday mornings just got a little bit more delicious at Wesleyan Bible Church.

A church that serves breakfast? That’s right! Sunday mornings just got a little bit more delicious at Wesleyan Bible Church.

The new breakfast fellowship is part of Tim Linick’s plan that he calls “Connection.” The new pastor, who began his service in June, envisions a stronger church where people connect with each other and connect with God. To encourage connection, Tim came up with the idea to set aside the hour before morning worship for attendees to relax and enjoy a home-cooked breakfast together, followed by classes for all ages.

The Connection Hour provides an opportunity to get away from hurried schedules and open the door to develop a meaningful relationship with God and other people. “Or you might just find out something interesting you didn’t know about someone,” adds one of the breakfast chefs and long-time church member James Blaylock. Maybe you’ll even find a connection to the job you need, or your new babysitter.

The aroma of pancakes, bacon, sausage, breakfast casseroles and sandwiches, scrambled eggs, and biscuits and gravy will lead the way to the Family Life Center, next to the sanctuary at 6600 S. 33rd W. Ave. in Tulsa. Every Sunday a pair of featured chefs will present their favorite dish. There is no charge for breakfast, but donations will be gladly accepted.

From the moment he entered, Pastor Tim could see that Wesleyan is a close-knit family church. Other first-time visitors agree. They always comment on the “friendly people,” as well as the “beautiful setting.” The long entrance hallway flows into the natural setting of tall trees in a peaceful and serene greenbelt.

The blended music style also draws raving comments. In fact, it’s one of the things that attracted the pastor and his family before they moved here from West Virginia. Contemporary and formal arrangements come together in a smooth and seamless fashion that appeals to all ages. Minister of music John Dowd often transitions from a traditional hymn to a modern and dynamic tempo, drawing everyone into the mood he creates.

Pastor Tim firmly believes that building strong family bonds is essential. He has designated October 4 as Family Reunion Sunday at Wesleyan Bible Church. All members are challenged to bring as many family members as possible – no matter where they live – to Connection at 10, worship at 11, and then a special dinner after the service. The family with the most members present receives a $100 gift card to Wal-Mart.

Future leaders of the church have a nurturing environment in which to get to know God on their own level. For example, on Wednesday nights, Youth Pastor Joey Shutrump is challenging the United Youth (6th to 12th graders) to discover Biblical concepts and apply them to everyday life. Pastor Tim's wife Karla leads the KFC (Kids for Christ – Kindergarteners to 5th graders) as they learn Bible Stories, sing songs, make crafts, play fun games and share snacks together.

Pastor Tim attributes the success of Wesleyan to the dedication and accomplishments of his predecessor, Pastor Richard Gremillion. Pastor Gremillion led the church in its early days from a storefront to the current property where a beautiful sanctuary was eventually built in 2003. The new facility was paid in full within three years.

“I am honored to take the church to the next step,” says Pastor Tim. His focus will be on small groups, with ample opportunities for fellowship, as well as morning and evening worship on Sunday and Wednesday night activities for children, youth and adults. Other activities include a monthly men’s prayer breakfast, girls’ night out, scrapbook Saturday, birthday socials, youth afterglow, seniors’ game night and an annual couples’ retreat.

Pastor Tim wants to make Sunday morning quality time for everyone. This includes members deep in faith as well as visitors exploring ideas about God and faith. All are welcome.

The Connection breakfast fellowship is from 10 to 10:20 a.m., followed by classes from 10:20 to 10:50 and worship and junior church at 11. Transportation can be arranged by calling the Wesleyan Bible Church office at (918) 445-1972.

For more information, contact

Wesleyan Bible Church

www.wbctulsa.com

About Author Deanna Rebro

Deanna Rebro has worked in the publishing industry 30+ years, including eight years writing for Value News. She has also worked in real estate for the past six years. Deanna graduated from Kent State University in Kent, Ohio with a B.A. in Journalism. Outside of work, she serves as Vice President on the Board of Directors for Pet Adoption League. “Every story I write is a learning experience,” she said.