June Digital 2026

CAMP PERFECT WINGS

DAVIS—Summer camps are officially underway and thousands are expected to attend this summer across Falls Creek Youth Camp, CrossTimbers Children’s Mission Adventure Camp and Indian Falls Creek. Many are familiar with these mainstays of Oklahoma Baptist culture, however another summer camp offered that has a major Gospel impact that some are unaware of is Camp Perfect Wings.

Meeting at CrossTimbers, Camp Perfect Wings took place May 21-23 and is a camp experience for children and adults with cognitive or intellectual disabilities, ages eight and up.

“Camp Perfect Wings gives these kids and adults a place to come and have fun,” said CrossTimbers Program Director Sarah Hagar. “They get to spend time with friends doing things they enjoy. They hear about Jesus and the salvation only He brings.”

At Camp Perfect Wings, each activity, game, worship session and Bible teaching is designed with the campers’ special needs in mind. These include game nights, carriage rides at Turner Falls, a talent show, ropes course and more. One of the events that campers look forward to the most each year is riding with the F.A.I.T.H. Riders, a motorcycle ministry.

“A hit is an understatement,” said Becka Johnson, longtime Camp Director at Camp Perfect Wings. “Our campers couldn’t wait to ride on those motorcycles.”

Camp Perfect Wings also has mission stops where campers can learn about ministries across the world. This year, the mission stops focused on Native American ministry. Campers were able to learn more about Native American culture through games and an interactive experience.

The theme for this year was identical to that of CrossTimbers, “I Am” based on John 14:6, “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

“Those base, spiritual and foundational principals are the same no matter who you are,” said Hagar.

David Anderson, Louisiana Baptists Children’s Ministry Strategist, once again served as the camp pastor. He has preached at Camp Perfect Wings for 18 years, becoming a welcomed friend to campers.

When asked what he thought made Camp Perfect Wings so special, he responded with one word: “Community.”

“The campers know each other and see each other throughout the year at different events,” said Anderson. “When they come to Camp Perfect Wings it’s just like one big family reunion.”

To help the campers have a safe and enjoyable time, Camp Perfect Wings campers are paired with a Buddy. A Buddy is a responsible adult or teen (16 years old and up) who has the desire to serve those with special needs. They can be people who have worked or currently work with individuals with special needs, are family members of individuals with special needs or anyone else who wants to serve those with special needs.

Camp Perfect Wings is a unique ministry in Oklahoma because every part of it is designed for campers with special needs. At Camp Perfect Wings, everyone is made perfect in the image of God.

BARNETT REMEMBERED FOR IMPACTFUL CAMPUS MINISTRY, DISCIPLESHIP

by Messenger Staff

Max Don Barnett, 89, longtime director of the Baptist Student Union/ Baptist Collegiate Ministry at the University of Oklahoma (OU), died May 17.

Barnett, a native of Littlefield, Texas, helped lead a ministry at OU that celebrated its Centennial on Oct. 20, 2023. More than 500 students and BCM/ BSU alumni and supporters gathered for the special 100th anniversary event.

Barnett served at OU from 1967-2004, “Where his faithful, Spirit-led leadership established a model of collegiate ministry marked by evangelistic fervor, doctrinal depth, and pastoral care for students. Max faithfully served the Lord Jesus Christ for more than 60 years in Baptist collegiate ministry, giving his life to reaching university students with the Gospel and discipling generations of young men and women for Kingdom service,” said Shane Kammerer, current OU BCM director.

In 1999, the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) President at the time appointed Barnett to serve on the Baptist Faith and Message Study Committee, a blue-ribbon committee chaired by the late Adrian Rogers, which convened to review and revise the Convention’s confessional statement for a new generation of Southern Baptists. The committee delivered its report to the Convention on June 14, 2000, resulting in the adoption of the Baptist Faith and Message 2000—a document now affirmed as a faithful summary of biblical doctrine and the confessional foundation of Southern Baptist cooperation.

Oklahoma Baptists Executive Director-Treasurer Todd Fisher said, “Max Barnett was an Oklahoma Baptists icon in Baptist Collegiate Ministry. He served at the BCM at OU for 37 years and was a member of the committee that presented the updated Baptist Faith & Message in 2000. His long, far-reaching legacy of disciple making and evangelism has a tremendous impact for the kingdom of God.”

An outpouring of support and appreciation for Barnett was seen across social media.

Chad Coleman, state director of BCM for Oklahoma Baptists, said, “I am incredibly thankful for the legacy and impact Max Barnett had on campus ministry in Oklahoma

and around the U.S. Over the past year, he often took time to call, encourage me and pray for me.”

Pastor Bill Elliff said, “Max Barnett was one of the greatest men I’ve ever known. God led him to oversee the Baptist student work at the University of Oklahoma for decades, but it was merely a launching pad to change the lives of hundreds of thousands of people and ministries around the world. He arguably started more student ministries on major college universities than any man living.”

One OU alumni on the BSU staff under the leadership of Barnett said on Facebook, “At the BSU he taught me how and what ministries are all about. He’s a great leader and speaker and Christ was his life.”

Another former student said, “Under his leadership, I learned how to walk with God. I learned how to understand my faith and how to share Jesus with others.”

Kammerer added, “Max was truly a pioneer in ministry. His discipleship methods revolutionized campus ministry as we know it today. Max’s impact is still felt today at OU and other BCM’s, and he will be greatly missed. We are praying for his family.”

Ryan Polk, Associate Pastor at Norman, Trinity, said, “I’ve had the privilege of knowing Max Barnett for the past 31 years, first as a student at the University of Oklahoma BCM and the last several years serving with him as an elder at Trinity Baptist Church. Max’s name is synonymous with disciple-making and rightfully so.”

Barnett held a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A&M University, a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Seminary, and Doctor of Ministry degree from Midwestern Seminary. He has also served as the volunteer state director for the Baptist Collegiate Ministries in Colorado and has been a professor of collegiate ministries holding the E.F. Hallock Chair of Student Work at Southwestern Seminary. He has been married to his wife Sandra for more than 60 years. They have one son, daughter-in-law and four grandchildren. Barnett was a longtime member at Norman, Trinity, where he served as an elder.

The memorial/funeral service for Max Barnett will be on June 12, Friday, at Southern Hills Baptist Church, 8601 S. Pennsylvania, in Oklahoma City. Look for additional coverage by the Baptist Messenger in future publications.

INVESTING IN THE GOSPEL: OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS BOARD MEETS

by Messenger Staff

MUSTANG—Oklahoma

Baptists’ Board of Directors gathered May 5 at Mustang, Chisholm Heights, for a pivotal meeting focused on accelerating Gospel impact through strategic church support, prayer and missions.

Led by President Owen Nease, pastor of Oklahoma City, Emmaus, the board reviewed reports detailing robust ministry expansion, with Executive Director-Treasurer Todd Fisher emphasizing strengthened efforts to support pastors and advance the Gospel statewide.

The meeting highlighted tangible evidence of Gospel advance in Oklahoma. Fisher shared brief ministry reports from Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM), Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief and other ministry areas, informing board members that an evangelism strategy is forthcoming.

Fisher encouraged Board members to pray for the upcoming summer camps, which Oklahoma Baptists have connection points to including Camp Perfect Wings, Associational Children’s Camp, CrossTimbers Mission Adventure Camp, Falls Creek, Indian Falls Creek and Collegiate Week. Fisher emphasized camp improvements made at Falls Creek, including the new, large-scale ropes course addition called “The Matrix.”

Calling attention to Ephesians 3:17-19, Fisher shared about how to stay encouraged in difficult times.

“One of the things that has gotten me through my journey is a phrase I’ve told myself since my car wreck: ‘Stop and do the math,’” he said.

“Then I will do my best to stop focusing on my present difficulty and start adding up how blessed I am by the Lord. This exercise has helped me gain perspective that is greater than the challenge I am facing.”

Among business action items, board members approved the “2026 Edna McMillan State Missions Offering goal totaling $1.25 million, to be distributed in 2027,” and that “the 2027 Cooperative Program objective be $24.5 million.”

Board members also approved a recommendation to give, from undesignated reserve funds, $300,000 to the International Mission Board (IMB) for the renovation of missionary housing at the International Learning Center (ILC) in Richmond, Va., where many Oklahoma Baptist missionaries have received training.

“Many Oklahoma Baptist missionaries have been trained at the ILC, and we are one of numerous groups making a strategic investment with the IMB in this way,” Fisher said.

During the afternoon plenary session of the board meeting, ministry reports were given by the various board committees: Executive, Finance, Church Resources, Communications/Cooperative Program and Support Services. Board members also heard ministry reports from the four affiliates—WatersEdge CEO Robert Kellogg, Oklahoma Baptist University President Heath Thomas, Baptist Village Communities President Bill Pierce and Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children President James Swain—each of whom are making a Gospel impact.

The next regularly scheduled board meeting for Oklahoma Baptists is set for Sept. 15 at Falls Creek Conference Center.

For more information, visit www.oklahomabaptists.org

APPRECIATE THE DIFFERENCES

by Owen Nease, Lead Pastor at Oklahoma City, Emmaus

When I began college at OBU in 2000, freshmen received a picture directory of their class, complete with a short bio under the picture listing the student’s hometown, major and personal interests. Imagine a church directory, except this version was given to 18 and 19 year olds desperate to find a date!

I remember one picture distinctly – she had red curly hair and was looking off into the distance, not at the camera. She listed her hobbies as laughing and talking, two things I had very little interest in.

Under my picture were exciting, normal hobbies: golf and reading. (Let the reader judge who had the more impressive bio!) Long story short, and you’ve already guessed it, I ended up marrying that girl.

Needless to say, the differences didn’t stop with our freshman directory pictures. One of the greatest joys (and challenges) in life has been learning to appreciate the differences between us in marriage. Plus, the willingness to appreciate differences extends to how we relate to other family friends, especially our kids, and to friends and neighbors.

How to Appreciate the Differences

Show Gratitude, even in the small things.

• Appreciating means valuing the other person for who God created them to be.

• Brag on the other person, especially in public.

• Celebrate the person’s character (who they are) even more than you celebrate what they do.

Beware Unfair Expectations

• You won’t be perfect and neither will your spouse or friends.

• Notice the strengths, and expect the weaknesses (remember that you probably have a log sticking out of your own eye).

• When you’re tempted to become bitter or closed off, instead choose to be curious and supportive.

Grow Together

• Appreciating differences doesn’t mean excusing sin or never challenging the other person to grow. Appreciating differences builds a foundation of trust that allows for hard conversations.

• Every good aspect of our personality comes with a shadow side. Through the gift of a trusted marriage or friendship, we can experience God’s sanctification and healing.

• Ask: How can I help the other person become who God created them to be?

Appreciating Differences in the Church

The appreciation of differences is reflected most beautifully in the ultimate mystery of marriage, the Church. God has provided a variety of gifts, perspectives, experiences, and personalities in local churches, and this diversity of the Body of Christ extends to cities, regions, and the global Church. Across our state and around the world, we need churches of various sizes, styles, and approaches. Appreciating differences is a hallmark of Oklahoma Baptists! Legacy churches and church plants. Urban, rural, and county seat. Ethnicities, socio-economic levels, musical styles, and more – we are unified in Christ and diverse in appearance and expression.

When we have baptisms at Emmaus, the person being baptized writes a personal testimony to be read by a family member or friend immediately prior to the baptism. After the testimony is read, the person being baptized is asked, “What is your confession?” With believers across the centuries, the response is: “Jesus is Lord!” This proclamation of Christ as Lord reinforces the unity of the Church; the person’s unique testimony about their journey of faith teaches us to appreciate the differences among believers. All for the glory of God!

CARL ALBERT STATE COLLEGE BCM SEES STUDENTS

REACHED FOR JESUS

by Messenger Staff

POTEAU—At some universities, strong community relationships help BCM connect with students who do not know Christ. That is exactly what happened at Carl Albert State College (CASC) in Poteau. Community members in Poteau regularly pray for students who do not know Christ and invite them to BCM events. Through those community efforts, a CASC wrestler named Weslee came to faith in Christ.

“From a kingdom standpoint, God just worked and moved to bring this young man to us,” said Clay Phillips, BCM director at CASC.

Weslee wrestled in North Carolina during high school before choosing Carl Albert State College for his first year of collegiate wrestling. During his first week of classes, another wrestler, Bailey, invited Weslee to attend Collegiate Week at Falls Creek. Although Weslee had never attended church before, he accepted the invitation.

The invitation happened in a class taught by Susan Hill, a Sunday School teacher and the wife of Bentley Hill, the former BCM director at CASC before Phillips.

Later that day, Weslee shopped for supplies when Susan Akers offered to help him find what he needed since he was new to town. During the shopping trip, she asked Weslee about his life and where he came from. She also invited him to her church, Southside Baptist Church, where Susan Hill taught Sunday School. Weslee told her he would think about it.

Akers later contacted Hill, her friend, and told her about Weslee. Hill recognized the name, and the two women committed to praying for him.

Two days later, Phillips drove a van full of college students to Falls Creek for the camp, with Weslee sitting in the passenger seat beside him. Phillips learned more about Weslee during the drive not knowing that Hill and Akers were already praying for him.

On the second night of camp, Phillips shared the Gospel with Weslee, who began to cry. Phillips asked him what was wrong, and Weslee said he believed everything Phillips had shared about the Gospel but did not know how to follow Christ.

That night, Phillips led Weslee to Christ.

Later that day, Phillips called Hill to tell her about Weslee’s profession of faith. During the conversation, Phillips learned the two women had been praying for Weslee. Upon returning from camp Weslee took Akers up on her offer and began attending Southside where Kevin and

DEBT FREE: OKLAHOMA CITY, PUTNAM CITY TO CELEBRATE CENTENNIAL

JUNE 13-14

by Bob Nigh, Oklahoma Baptists Historical Commission & Society

On April 1, 2025, Oklahoma City, Putnam City (PCBC) Pastor Bill Hulse challenged his members to pay off the remaining balance of a $1.1 million long-standing debt before the church’s 100th anniversary in June 2026.

The members stepped forward to accept the challenge and on April 30, 2026, Hulse announced the $1.1 million debt was paid, leaving the church unencumbered to celebrate its centennial anniversary debt free for the first time since 1998. On May 10, the church celebrated the momentous achievement with a note-burning ceremony.

The seeds of PCBC were in a multi denominational union Sunday School originally meeting in a home and later meeting in the Putnam City Schools public building, From this group of worshippers a more Southern Baptist group of believers emerged. They wanted a church of their own, and on June 20, 1926, they met in a brush Arbor and organized PCBC with 33 members.

The Great Depression had a significant effect on the building program which was organized soon after the church began. After meetings of the Women’s missionary Union, the ladies made wooden seats. The church began to prosper as the people tithed and prayed and the church continued to grow. PCBC was nine years old and hardly out of the mission stage itself when it shared some of its members to help organize Oklahoma City, West 10th Street in 1935.

This church planting heart has continued through the years with the planting of numerous churches including a new Hispanic congregation with a target date of 2027.

Over the years, PCBC continued to grow and to reach its community. Upon building a new property at NW 41st and Grove St. in the Putnam City School District the church grew and began to reach its neighborhoods. Pastor Rod Masteller served the church for 20 years and during his tenure, the church grew to more than 2,400 in worship.

New property was given to the church, and plans were formulated to move to a new location at 11401 N. Rockwell Ave. This was a time of divided opinion as some saw the need to reach the growth area of Oklahoma City and others wanted to stay where the church was.

Pastor Jerry Mckinney led the move to the new property and building in 1998. These were challenging times and attendance dipped under 400. The sale of the old property fell through, leaving the church $2.5 million short of the money they projected to have for the new building.

That forced the church into a long-term debt payment that became a significant part of the budget. In December

2010, the church called Hulse, former youth minister, to return as senior pastor.

Under his leadership the church began to grow again, and many young families were reached. In 2018 the church began to realize there was a critical need to provide space for children and their families. In 2019 and 2020 they built additional children’s space and remodeled preschool space, a project costing approximately $2 million that was paid for upon its opening in 2020.

As with most churches Covid had a significant impact on the church, but as society opened back up, the church seized the opportunity and began to grow again, averaging almost 700 worshippers each Sunday by 2025. PCBC will celebrate its centennial June 13-14.

Members of every generation who have been part of the church throughout the years have been invited to come together for a special time of reunion and fellowship in the Worship Center from 3-4 p.m., Sat., June 13. This is designed to be a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with old friends, meet others who share in the story of the church, and reflect on the many seasons of God’s faithfulness.

Immediately following our family reunion event, we will kick off an outdoor family fun night. We will have food trucks, games, inflatables, and activities for all ages to enjoy.

“This will be a fun and relaxed time for our church family and community to celebrate together, so be sure to invite your friends, neighbors, and anyone who would enjoy a great evening together,” said Bob Shelton, administrative pastor.

“The centennial celebration weekend will conclude with a special Sunday service during regular service times, from 9:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Services will be centered on celebrating 100 years of God’s faithfulness to PCBC, with meaningful moments of worship, reflection, and gratitude as we look back on all that God has done and look ahead with anticipation for what is to come.”

THOUSANDS TO GATHER FOR SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION MEETING IN ORLANDO

by Messenger Staff and Baptist Press Reports

ORLANDO, Fla.—Approximately 20,000 messengers are expected to attend the 2026 Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) Annual Meeting, June 7-10 in the Orlando Convention Center.

The 2026 SBC Pastors’ Conference will precede the annual meeting on June 7-8.

Pastors’ Conference President Aaron Burgner, lead pastor at Lakes Church in Lakeland, Fla., said, “We want everyone to come and be part of this time of encouragement and equipping. So, as part of the Pastors’ Conference, we are excited to host four micro conferences in the Convention Center during the Monday session alongside the Pastors’ Conference.”

The Monday micro-conferences will feature sessions designed for:

• Worship leaders, hosted by SBC Worship and the Worship Initiative with recording artists Shane & Shane and worship leader Robbie Seay

• Discipleship and education leaders, hosted by Lifeway Christian Resources

• Student pastors, led by Student Leadership University

• Children’s ministry leaders, hosted by Lifeway Christian Resources

“We’re thrilled to have these ministry partners with us, and we can’t wait to see how God will use the 2026 Pastors’ Conference to encourage and equip pastors and leaders as we serve together for the glory of God,” Burgner said.

Messenger pre-registration for the annual meeting is now open online. Detailed schedules will be released online, as messengers hear ministry reports, consider key business and more. For more information about the 2026 SBC Annual Meeting and Pastors’ Conference, visit: https://sbcannualmeeting.net.

Each year at the SBC, Oklahoma Baptists, in partnership with Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) and WatersEdge, host a special gathering for all Oklahoma Baptists, guests of WatersEdge and OBU alumni attending the SBC meeting.

This year, the fellowship will be held at 7 p.m., June 9 at SeaWorld Park. A light dinner and beverages will be provided. The event is free, but those who wish to attend must pre-register at this link.

In addition to the various speakers and business sessions, the annual meeting will have events inside the exhibit center and outside the convention hall.

Numerous SBC entities and affiliates will set up booths in the convention center’s exhibit hall to promote their missions and allow attendees access to useful resources for their ministries. Major entities to be on the lookout for include the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), Gateway Seminary, GuideStone Financial Resources, the International Mission Board (IMB), Lifeway Christian Resources and more.

There will also be an interactive display for the Cooperative Program (CP) where attendees can leave their testimonies on how the CP has impacted their individual journey, churches and ministries. According to Brandon Porter, SBC Executive Committee vice president for convention communications, many of the testimonies submitted will be shared throughout the year on the ‘SBC This Week’ podcast. The CP booth will additionally be the end point for this year’s exhibit hall scavenger hunt.

Every year, the SBC Ministers Wives Luncheon is held to honor and encourage women who serve in the church alongside their husbands. To register for this event, click here.

With nearly 200 events, meetings, and gatherings taking place throughout the week, Southern Baptists will be equipped and encouraged in the Gospel work.

LONGTIME NORTHEASTERN OKLAHOMA A&M BCM DIRECTOR RETIRES

by Carissa Jones, Oklahoma Baptists College Ministries Assistant

Kimily Waldron, Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) Director at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, has announced her retirement at the end of May. Her devotion to collegiate ministry spans nearly four decades and eight different campuses across Oklahoma as well as seven years on campuses in Arizona and Mississippi.

Fellow BCM leaders, both current and former, gathered in early May to honor her at the annual BCM leadership retreat. A few colleagues gave speeches at the event sharing fun and meaningful stories while also paying tribute to her keen sense of humor. Each speaker noted Waldron’s deep love for the Lord and for her students. They spoke of her servant’s heart, her willingness to help anyone in need, and her perseverance. They applauded her consistent obedience to God over the years, through good times and bad.

Cris Lowery, former State BCM Director for Oklahoma Baptists, highlighted her ability to connect deeply with people. “Kimily sees the person that most people walk right by,” he said. “And she doesn’t just see them. She stops and talks to them, she becomes friends with them.”

Former student Staci Montgomery agrees. “I remember Kimily with great fondness. Her kindness and welcoming smile made the (then BSU) feel like a refuge on our campus,” she said. “Her life is marked by the joy of the Lord, and being around her was both refreshing and encouraging.”

Waldron’s nurturing nature has made a mark on many lives, even among her peers. “Kimily showed the love of Christ to all her students and colleagues by meeting them exactly where they were – offering a listening ear, compassion, and wise counsel,” said Pauline Boren, BCM Director at Oklahoma City University. “That was shown to me as a student, as a colleague, and even now as a friend. She has been a constant support with her words of encouragement, guidance, and prayer.”

Waldron shared her desire to continue in ministry after she retires. “I would really like to go and serve overseas,” she said, noting that she is looking into the Masters program offered by the International Mission Board as one potential option. Her passion for missions has made itself evident through her continual investment in the lives of international students on campus and as she led numerous groups on international and domestic mission trips over the years. “I am so grateful for my time in BCM, and I’m excited about my next chapter, because that’s truly what this is – a new chapter,” said Waldron, adding with her signature smile, “God’s not finished with me yet!”

“Kimily has faithfully served on various campuses throughout Oklahoma and has made a lasting impact wherever she has served,” said Chad Coleman, State BCM Director for Oklahoma Baptists. “We are thankful for her devotion to investing in the next generation and look forward to seeing how the Lord will continue to use her.”

The Apostle Paul’s greeting to the Thessalonians reflects the heart of Waldron’s colleagues toward her and her ministry. “We give thanks to God always for… you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3)

Thirty-seven years. Twelve campuses. Countless students. One incredible legacy of faithfulness.

CHURCH NEWS

IBC WOMEN’S MINISTRY HOST ‘DARE TO REPAIR’

On May 16, Shawnee, Immanuel hosted ‘Dare to Repair.’ This free event allowed women to learn about basic home and car maintenance as well as home financing. Contractors were available to demonstrate and answer questions about plumbing, HVAC systems, home repairs and more. Through ‘Dare to Repair,’ attendees gained confidence in taking care of basic maintenance and financing on their own.

JOHNSON, SALLATEESKA CELEBRATES DEBT-FREE MILESTONE WITH NOTE BURNING

Sallateeska Baptist Church marked a momentous occasion on Sunday, March 22, as members gathered to celebrate the full payoff of a loan taken out for the purchase of additional land adjacent to the church property. In a symbolic and joyful act, Pastor Don Acker and Deacon John Jones burned the loan note before the congregation, signifying the church’s freedom from debt and God’s continued provision. “To pay off a loan of that size, in the amount of time that we did, is only from God,” Deacon Anthony Ramirez shared after the ceremony. “It’s a testimony to what God can do through a faithful and praying church family.”