Newsletter

OUMHS NEWSLETTER                            Volume 1 / Issue 1/Summer 2015
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A Unique Window ?

All of the glass windows of Wesley UMC in Oklahoma City feature scenes from the life of Christ rather than the more traditional scenes from throughout the Bible.  The exception is one small window along the south cloister. Is this the only window of its kind?  Attempts to locate and identify similar memorial windows has been unsuccessful so far.

The window, added in 1928, is called "The Tie Around the World" and was dedicated "For God, Home, and Every Land." by the Women's Christian Temperance Union. Many of its Oklahoma City members called Wesley Methodist their home. 

A more correct title would be the "White Ribbon Around the World" as the white ribbon was the symbol of the WCTU. It symbolized a pledge that members of the WCTU made to pray for members around the world each day at noon. The WCTU was specifically concerned about the devastation resulting from alcohol abuse in homes and society. They campaigned to educate youth, change laws, and influence their society. Their zeal stemmed from a strong conviction that the promotion of temperance was a part of their response to the Great Commission. (http://wesleyokchistory.blogspot.com/Used by permission)

 “History is a vision of God's creation on the move.”  - Arnold J. Toynbee

Online Links Related to Oklahoma Methodist History

The Conference Commission on Archives and History is found at http://www.okumcministries.org/Archive_History/home.htm
A blog with a focus on Methodist history in Oklahoma is, Album of Oklahoma History at http://albumofhistory.blogspot.com/ . This site seeks to add brief histories, articles, and images related to the history of all the branches of Methodism in Oklahoma’s heritage and will be working in partnership with the conference archivist and local churches to gather histories, identify individuals and promote history events. Recently an article on the history of the  "Asbury Manual Labor School" by Linda Morgan Clark was added.

New Facebook Group Unites OK History Buffs

 

Following a workshop for local church archivist/historians a group page was established on Facebook to improve communication, support, and attract interest in Oklahoma Methodist Church history. Anyone may join the group and become part of the ongoing process of discovery.  Information is posted about events, local history finds, questions on preservation, methods, and helpful tips on methods of preserving church history.  Search for OKUMC History Buffs and join the discussion.