THE SPIRIT | June 2026
The SPIRIT Newsletter for June 2026
Theology Minute
One Story, Two Testaments
Article VI | United Methodist Articles of Religion
Article VI of our United Methodist Articles of Religion addresses a question that has tripped up Christians since the second century: how should we read the Old Testament now that we have the New?
Some early Christians wanted to throw the Old Testament out entirely, arguing the God of Israel was a different, lesser God than the Father of Jesus. The church rejected that view, and Article VI carries forward the same rejection.
The Old and New Testaments are not at odds. Both offer the same salvation through the same Christ, who is the only Mediator between God and humanity, fully God and fully human. The Old Testament saints were not chasing lesser, earthly promises while waiting for something better. They trusted the same God we trust.
The article does draw one careful distinction. The ceremonial and civil laws of Moses — the sacrifices, dietary rules, and ancient Israel’s legal code — do not bind Christians today. But the moral law, summarized in the Ten Commandments and fulfilled in love of God and neighbor, still applies to every Christian.
One story. Two testaments. One Savior. And a moral life that has never gone out of style.
Ministry Updates
What’s Happening at St. Paul
Project Transformation is Underway
Our Project Transformation Summer Reading Program is in full swing. Reading Buddies meet 10:00 AM to noon, Monday through Thursday. Volunteers are always welcome, and you can also choose dates to sponsor dinner for our interns. See Barbara Kent to sign up. We are grateful for our 2026 leaders and interns — Barbara, Stephanie, Kyleigh, Kate, Joel, Sarah, and James — who are pouring into the children of Muskogee this summer.
Learning Tree – A Sweet End to the Year
Learning Tree Preschool wrapped up a wonderful school year. We hosted Muffins with Moms for Mother’s Day and celebrated with our Spring Showcase on May 17, themed “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” We closed the year on May 20 with water play and a bounce house. This year brought growth for students and teachers alike, and we are deeply thankful for our teachers and church family. We cannot wait to see what God has in store for next year.
Children’s Ministry – Looking Toward VBS
Children’s Ministry continues our Open Conversations series through June, encouraging kids to ask big questions and grow in their faith. This summer our focus is outreach and evangelism. We are preparing our theater room for future movie nights and Parents Night Out events. All of our summer activities lead toward Vacation Bible School, July 27-30, with the theme Emerald Crossing based on Psalm 23. Thank you for continuing to pray for and support the children of our church and community.
Youth Force Mission Trip
Please pray for our youth as they serve as working missionaries with Youth Force in Tulsa, June 21-26, helping rehab a house alongside other teams. Thank you to everyone who has given to support this mission trip. Questions? See Barbara Kent.
Upcoming Events
June Events at St. Paul
Symphony in the Park – Saturday, June 6, 7:00 PM
Symphony in the Park, featuring the Muskogee Community Band, takes place on the South Green at Honor Heights Park. This free outdoor concert is a wonderful way to spend a summer evening — bring blankets or lawn chairs. Concessions will be available, a Symphony Banner art auction will be held at intermission, and the night ends with a fireworks finale. The weather location is Hatbox Field.
Father’s Day – Sunday, June 21
Join us as we honor the fathers and father figures of our congregation on Father’s Day, June 21.
Egan Summer Camp
Oklahoma United Methodist summer camps at Egan Camp and Retreat Center are open for registration for children of all ages. Egan is surrounded by the Ozark Mountains, where it is easy to feel God’s presence. Register at okcamps.org and contact Abigail Shaw at 918-348-9262 for the St. Paul camp code.
