In this episode we talk about how we can cultivate true friendships and create community in our churches.  We look at specific ideas for creating community at OKC First Church as we seek to become a relational oasis in a downtown environment.  In the show outtakes Morgan shares her love for school cafeteria food, but not for square pizza.

First Chats

Creating Community

The audio quality is a bit different than previous episodes as our guest was recording from a church in Minnesota.  You can even hear the African Children's Choir rehearsing and playing in the church during the recording.  Make sure you check out the African Children's Choir website at https://africanchildrenschoir.com and mark your calendar for December 1 at 7 p.m. for their concert at Oklahoma City First Church.

The African Children's Choir and Music For Life

In this episode Pastor Lesly has a wonderful time with Oklahoma City's Mayor Holt as they discuss the role of the faith community in the renaissance of downtown Oklahoma City, the MAPS 4 projects dealing with those living in poverty, the impact of faith in Mayor Holt's life, and other topics (even including nonworking streetlights.)  Make sure you give Mayor Holt a follow on social media!

The Faith Community and the Renaissance of Oklahoma City

In this episode we take an inside look at preaching.  We talk about how preachers know when they preach bad sermons, how Pastor Lesly plans and develops his sermons, the balance between planning and being moved by the Holy Spirit in the moment of preaching, and some ways everyone can support their own preacher.  

An Inside Look At Preaching

In this episode of First Chats we talk about the topic of prayer.  We define prayer, talk about different types of prayer, tackle our struggles with prayer, and touch on our own practices of prayer.  Make sure you listen to the very end to hear Morgan sing an 80s classic rock song.  You won't be disapointed.

Prayer

We hope you enjoy our conversation about the roll, work, and ministry of the Holy Spirit.  Check out these links to some great articles and videos about the Holy Spirit here, here, here, here, and here. 

The Holy Spirit

To connect with Alissa you can follow her on Instagram at alissa_wrights or on her website here.  You can also find out more about the Light a Candle organization by going to their website here.  

First Chats Episode 2: Missions, Joining God's Ministry to the World

In this first episode of First Chats we discuss all things worship, an extremely important part of the Christian life.  You will hear a working definition of worship, the role of worship in everyone's life, and how we go about worship at First Church.

Episode 1: Worship

This is the podcast of Oklahoma City First United Methodist Church in which we discuss issues of faith, community, and our downtown neighborhood.

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First Chats

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