In September 2024, Christ Church lost our beloved vicar, the Reverend Dr. Everett Lees, to cancer – a profound loss felt deeply by our parish family. As we look to the future, we seek a vicar who will bring their own gifts and vision while honoring the spirit and mission that define our community.
We are eager to welcome a rector who fosters a safe, inclusive space, shares faith in a natural and engaging way, and inspires us to grow both spiritually and intellectually. We hope to find someone who connects authentically with parishioners and helps each person discover their place and purpose within the life of Christ Church. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about us.
OUR MESSAGE TO YOU
Christ Church Episcopal appreciates your interest in our church and invites you to learn about who we are and who we strive to be. We are searching for a full-time Vicar who will support our mission and help our vibrant church family continue to grow in community, faithfulness, and the desire to be the hands and feet of Christ in the world.
Through our outreach ministries, music programs, Christian education, fellowship events, and worship, we strive to follow our motto: “Love People, Follow Jesus, and Change the World.” The first thing you will see when walking up the sidewalk to our front door is a sign which reads “Welcome Sinners, Saints, or Skeptics.” All are welcomed here. Whether you come to the 9:00 a.m. or the 11:00 a.m. service, you will find a welcoming, traditional Episcopal service.
At the 9:00 a.m. service, you will hear our Chancel Choir leading the congregation as we sing traditional hymns accompanied by the organ or piano. If you choose to go to the 11:00 a.m. service, you will hear contemporary Christian music accompanied by the piano, guitar, drums, and our singers. We are proud to offer two services with different music so our congregants can choose what style of music and environment with which they feel most comfortable. Godly Play is offered at both services, and our youth make up one-third of our congregation. You will find children actively participating in our services, even sitting together in the front row, sharing in Communion.
In between services, we have many options for all parishioners. You may see people drinking coffee together, talking about the sermon or their week. You may see children grabbing donuts as they rush off to Sunday School. Our teenagers may be hosting a bake sale to raise money for their mission trip, or they may be discussing how much fun they had the previous Wednesday at EYC. You will see adults going to a variety of Christian Formation classes, ranging from a Lenten class focusing on the Psalms of Lament to Feminist Theology to our Foundations class this last Spring. Our Sundays are active, vibrant, and bustling.
In September of 2024, our church family suffered an unimaginable loss. Our beloved Reverend Doctor Everett Lees lost his battle with pancreatic cancer and left a hole in our church family and our hearts. With Father Lees’ vision, leadership, and compassion, our church grew from a tiny church in 2011 to a diverse church family with over 650 members, and we desperately miss him. We have spent these past nine months working through our grief and putting what Father Lees gave us – an unwavering love for Christ, each other, and the world – into action, preparing our church and praying for our next leader.
We look forward to finding a vicar who will bring his/her own strengths, experience, and vision to our community, while also maintaining our identity and enhancing our mission. To lead us in this next endeavor, we seek someone who will foster a safe, welcoming environment, share faith stories in a natural, engaging way, and challenge us to grow intellectually and spiritually. We hope for a servant leader who has an ability to connect with parishioners to help them develop their gifts and find their niche in our community. Thank you for your interest in Christ Church; we are excited to welcome a new vicar who will build on our legacy and guide us into the future.
OUR INVITATION
This message appears on the front of every Sunday
bulletin and has become part of our parish identity. It
reflects the inclusive spirit of Christ Church and the
deep sense of welcome that continues to draw people
into our community.
We extend a special welcome to those who are
single, married, divorced, gay, filthy rich, dirt poor,
no hablo Ingles. We extend a special welcome to
those who are crying newborns, skinny as a rail, or
could afford to lose a few pounds.
We welcome you if you can sing like Andrea Bocelli
or can’t carry a note in a bucket. You’re welcome
here if you’re “just browsing,” just woke up, or just
got out of jail. We don’t care if you’re more Catholic
than the Pope, or haven’t been in church since little
Joey’s Baptism.
We extend a special welcome to those who are
over 60 but not grown up yet, and to teenagers
who are growing up too fast. We welcome soccer
moms, NASCAR dads, starving artists, tree-huggers,
latte-sippers, vegetarians, junk-food eaters. We
welcome those who are in recovery or still
addicted. We welcome you if you’re having
problems or you’re down in the dumps or if you
don’t like “organized religion.” We’ve been there
too.
If you blew all your offering money at the dog track,
you’re welcome here. We offer a special welcome
to those who think the earth is flat, work too hard,
don’t work, can’t spell, or because grandma is in
town and wanted to go to church.
We welcome those who are inked, pierced, or both.
We offer a special welcome to those who could use
a prayer right now, had religion shoved down your
throat as a kid, or got lost in traffic and wound up
here by mistake. We welcome tourists, seekers and
doubters, bleeding hearts, and you!
OUR HISTORY
Christ Church Episcopal has a story rooted in resilience, grace, and a deepening sense of mission. Originally founded as the Church of the Holy Spirit, the congregation faced a defining moment in 2005 when a significant portion of its membership departed amid denominational tensions within the wider Episcopal Church. A small but committed group chose to remain, re-forming as Christ Church Episcopal and continuing the Episcopal witness at 10901 S. Yale Avenue in Tulsa.
The early years were marked by faithful perseverance. With just a handful of members and a significant mortgage, the community relied on prayer, commitment, and support from the Diocese of Oklahoma tosustain its ministry. In 2011, Christ Church entered a season of revitalization when the Rev. Everett Lees was called as vicar. His leadership, in collaboration with dedicated lay leaders and the Vestry, helped guide the church through a period of intentional growth and renewal.
From the start, the revitalization effort focused on clarity of purpose: doing a few things well, rather than trying to do everything. The congregation invested in children’s formation, launched scripture-based small groups, and created space for spiritual reflection through retreats, seasonal classes, and engaging liturgy. Music and worship were central to this renewal, with liturgical traditions honored and enriched by thoughtful preaching, meaningful Eucharist, and strong musical leadership.
Recognizing the changing demographics of the surrounding community, Christ Church made early investments in its children’s ministry — including the introduction of Godly Play, the hiring of a children’s minister before a large number of families had arrived, and creating welcoming space for young families. This commitment paid off, with a growing number of families now making Christ Church their spiritual home. Youth programs, retreats, and confirmation classes followed, all designed to support faith development at every age.
Christ Church also embraced its call to serve others through outreach and justice-focused ministries. During and after the pandemic, the church hosted outdoor worship services and community concerts, provided blood drives, packed meals, supported refugee resettlement efforts, and partnered with local organizations addressing food insecurity and housing needs. These initiatives — along with a regular rhythm of formation, fellowship, and worship — deepened the congregation’s understanding of its role in the wider community.
In 2013, the Diocesan Council recognized the parish’s vitality and voted to pay off the church’s mortgage — an act that released the congregation from a heavy financial burden and opened up new possibilities for ministry. This milestone marked a turning point in the life of the parish and affirmed the church’s growing health and promise.
By 2019, Christ Church was recognized as one of the fastest-growing Episcopal parishes in the country, with a renewed identity grounded not in numbers but in spiritual depth, community connection, and faithful witness.
The unexpected death of the Rev. Everett Lees in 2024 was a profound loss, felt deeply across the parish. His pastoral care, theological vision, and collaborative leadership helped shape the Christ Church we know today. As the congregation enters a new chapter, it does so with strong lay leadership, an active Vestry, and a continued commitment to the mission that has brought Christ Church this far: to follow Jesus, love people, and change the world.
OUR COMMUNITY
Welcome to Tulsa, Oklahoma
Nestled in the heart of “Green Country,” Tulsa is a vibrant city that harmoniously blends its rich history with modern innovation. Once dubbed the “Oil Capital of the World,” Tulsa has evolved into a diverse economic hub, with thriving sectors in energy, aerospace, finance, and technology.
Tulsa’s cultural scene is both dynamic and inclusive. The city boasts renowned institutions like the Philbrook Museum of Art and the Tulsa Performing Arts Center, alongside a burgeoning local arts community. Historic venues such as Cain’s Ballroom and the BOK Center host a variety of musical performances, reflecting Tulsa’s deep-rooted musical heritage.
One of Tulsa’s crown jewels is the Gathering Place, a 66.5-acre park along the Arkansas River. Opened in 2018, the park has received national recognition, including being named the “Best City Park” by USA Today in 2024.
Tulsa is home to a variety of popular festivals that celebrate the city’s vibrant culture and community spirit. Each fall, the Tulsa State Fair draws more than a million visitors with its classic mix of rides, exhibits, and live entertainment. In the spring, Mayfest showcases local and national artists in a lively downtown arts festival. Tulsa Tough, held in June, brings together professional and amateur cyclists for a three-day event that includes races, rides, and neighborhood block parties. And every October, Tulsa Oktoberfest celebrates German heritage with traditional food, music, and family-friendly activities—making it one of the top-ranked Oktoberfests in the country.
The city’s commitment to community and inclusivity is evident in initiatives like Tulsa Remote, which attracts remote workers nationwide, and efforts to revitalize the historic Greenwood District, honoring its legacy as “Black Wall Street.” Tulsa’s diverse neighborhoods, from the historic charm of Brookside to the artistic flair of the Brady Arts District, offer residents a unique blend of experiences.
With its welcoming atmosphere, affordable living, and a strong sense of community, Tulsa stands out as a city where tradition meets progress, making it an ideal place to call home.
OUR OUTREACH MINISTRIES
Thursday Night Light Feeding Ministry
Thursday Night Light is an opportunity to serve food and share fellowship with fellow Tulsans in need. Christ Church serves on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the FBC Caring Center. In 2024, Christ Church volunteers provided meals for 150
people in need.
Rising Village Refugee Ministry
Rising Village helps resettle refugees from all over the world into Oklahoma. Christ Church Story Groups and volunteers have donated bedding, kitchen items,\ furniture and art, and helped in sewing classes for refugees.
Family Promise Homeless Ministry
Family Promise of Tulsa County is a nonprofit, multifaith organization that provides shelter, meals, and support to homeless children and their families.
Throughout the year, Christ Church provides gift cards and meals for families facing housing insecurity.
New Hope Oklahoma Justice Involved Ministry
Christ Church supports New Hope Oklahoma, which serves children impacted by parental incarceration. This past year, the parish raised over $13,000, adopted 90 youth for Christmas, provided gift cards and holiday meals, and hosted events like Brains and Brats and the annual Holiday Party— offering year-round care through both financial and hands-on support.
OUR OUTREACH MINISTRIES
Iron Gate Feeding Ministry
Iron Gate is a soup kitchen and grocery pantry located in downtown Tulsa. The mission is to feed the hungry and homeless of Tulsa every day. The Saintly Servers of Christ Church volunteer on the second Sunday of the month providing meals to those in need.
Sand Plum Senior Ministry
Sand Plum Assisted Living is an Advantage assisted living provider through the Oklahoma Department of Health. The parish provides seasonal gifts, decorations and treats, supports the onsite Blessing Box, and hosts special events throughout the year. Deacon Bill also offers a weekly Sunday communion
service for residents.
At Christ Church, we’ve found more than a place to worship – we’ve found a home.
Our family loves the deep sense of community, the thoughtful and reverent worship, and the way Scripture, tradition, and grace are woven into everything. We’re grateful for the way all ages are welcomed and involved – from meaningful children’s programs to opportunities for adult formation and service.
Christ Church has become a place where our faith is nurtured, our questions are welcomed, and our lives are enriched through Christ-centered relationships.
– Kayte Anton, Christ Church Parishioner
OUR FELLOWSHIP
Story Groups
Story Groups are sermon-based small groups designed to help practitioners deepen their relationship with God and with one another. Each group reflects on the previous Sunday’s sermon and readings, creating space for meaningful conversation, spiritual growth, and authentic community. Participants are encouraged to explore different groups until they find the one that best fits their rhythm and stage of life.
Children's Formation
On Sunday mornings from 10:00–10:45 a.m., Christ Church offers two children’s formation classes. Holy Moly (Pre-K–2nd grade) uses multimedia, discussion, and crafts to explore Bible stories, while Brick-by-Brick (3rd–5th grade) engages children through hands-on LEGO storytelling. Additional formation opportunities are offered during Wednesday evening Story Groups in the fall and early spring.
Classes & Discussions
Christ Church offers weekly adult formation classes on Sundays at 10:00 a.m., providing opportunities to explore faith, Scripture, and Christian life more deeply. Taught by clergy and lay leaders, these classes create space for thoughtful discussion, spiritual growth, and connection between worship services. Topics vary throughout the year and often include seasonal studies, theology, and practical discipleship.
EYC
Each Wednesday evening, students in 6th–12th grade gather for Episcopal Youth Community, a time of fellowship, faith, and fun centered in Christ. The evening begins with a shared meal, followed by “highs and lows” of the week, a brief teaching grounded in Scripture, and plenty of games and connection. EYC offers a midweek space for youth to grow spiritually, build friendships, and experience the joy of life in Christian community.
OUR FELLOWSHIP
Men's Ministry
Christ Church’s Men’s Ministry provides opportunities for fellowship, spiritual growth, and connection. The group gathers monthly for Steak Night, often featuring guest speakers and conversation around faith and life. Each year, the men also participate in a retreat at St. Crispin’s Lodge, offering time for rest, reflection, and deeper community.
Women's Ministry
The Women’s Group at Christ Church offers a welcoming space for fun, friendship, and spiritual connection. They meet monthly for gatherings that range from game and taco nights at the church to dinners and activities around town. Each year, the group enjoys a retreat at St. Crispin’s Lodge, providing time to relax, reflect, and grow together in faith.
Concerts at the Farm
Concerts at the Farm are free, family-friendly outdoor events hosted on the church grounds and open to the entire community. Featuring local and regional bands, these concerts offer a relaxed atmosphere with food trucks on site—and once a year, RibFest brings the crowd together for barbecue dinners prepared by the Holy Smokers. Proceeds from RibFest support the EYC summer mission trip, making music, fellowship, and outreach all part of the celebration.
Community Garden
Located on the church grounds, the Christ Church Community Garden is lovingly maintained by parishioners and features fruits, vegetables, herbs—and even a few beehives. Fresh produce is shared with members in exchange for donations, with all proceeds supporting the church’s outreach ministries. It’s a beautiful expression of stewardship, community, and care for creation.
OUR FELLOWSHIP
Holy Smokers
The Holy Smokers are a spirited group of parishioners who put their grilling talents to good use—smoking turkeys for Thanksgiving, hams and salmon for Christmas and hams for Easter to support the Youth Summer Camp Scholarship Fund. Their popular RibFest is a highlight of the season, with proceeds supporting the Youth Summer Mission Trip, making their ministry one that’s both flavorful and full of purpose.
Yarnsters
The Yarnsters are a casual group that gathers each Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. in the Parish Hall for fellowship and fiber arts. Whether knitting, crocheting, or simply enjoying conversation, this group provides a consistent rhythm of connection and creativity within the life of the parish.
Pub Theology
Pub Theology is a relaxed, open group that meets weekly to explore questions of faith, life, and spirituality in a welcoming, conversational setting. All are invited to join the discussion every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at McNellie’s South City.
Christ Church truly loves me and my family unconditionally. It’s a priceless gift to us.
- Rachel Bausili, Christ Church Parishioner
OUR MINISTRY TEAMS
Altar Guild
The Altar Guild plays a vital role in preparing the sanctuary for worship. Members lovingly care for and arrange the sacred vessels, vestments, linens, bread, and wine used in our services. Their quiet, behind-the-scenes work ensures that each service is reverent and beautiful.
Hospitality Team
The Hospitality Team creates a welcoming atmosphere at Christ Church by hosting coffee hour between services and assisting with parish events throughout the year. From greeting visitors to helping with setup, decorations, and cleanup for special occasions, this ministry embodies the spirit of fellowship.
Godly Play
The largest Christ Church Children’s Ministry program is Godly Play, which reaches 50 or more children in pre-k to 5th grade each Sunday morning. Based on Montessori teaching styles, there’s one Godly Play class offered during the 9 a.m. service and three classes, broken up by age, at 11 a.m.
Music Ministry
Music is a vital part of worship at Christ Church, with many ways to participate. Our traditional choir leads the 9:00 a.m. service, while the 11:00 a.m. combo ensemble offers a contemporary style with guitar, cello, banjo, and more. Music Makers is our choir for children in grades 1–5. Beyond Sunday services, choirs and all who are interested join in Christmas caroling and hymn sings, enriching our shared musical life.
Lectors, Eucharistic Ministers and Eucharistic Visitors
Our Lectors, Eucharistic Ministers and Eucharistic Visitors assist the Clergy at Christ Church services each week and for special occasions. All of our volunteers are committed and dedicated to reading God’s Word and serving the Chalice.
Connections
As Christ Church has grown, so has the need for intentional pathways to help individuals connect with one another and with opportunities to serve. The Connections Committee and Connections Minister work together to support newcomers, build community, and help parishioners find meaningful ways to get involved. This ministry ensures that all who come through Christ Church’s doors feel not only welcome, but truly valued as part of the life and mission of the parish.
Acolytes
Acolytes at Christ Church play a meaningful role in our worship services, assisting in the liturgy by serving as crucifers, torch bearers, and Gospel book bearers. Open to children and youth ages 8 and up, this ministry offers a hands-on way to participate in the life of the church while learning the rhythms and traditions of Episcopal worship. Acolytes serve on a rotating schedule and are trained to lead with reverence, responsibility, and a spirit of service.
Flower Ministry
The Flower Guild creates floral arrangements for worship services and special events, adding beauty and reverence to our shared spaces. Supported by parishioner donations given in memory, celebration, or thanksgiving, this ministry reflects the care and creativity of the Christ Church community—and the joy of honoring life’s meaningful moments through flowers.
OUR GOALS
Our parish recently completed a comprehensive survey conducted by Holy Cow Consulting. Our results gave us a clear picture of who we are and who we want to be. We are classified as a “Magi” church from the data gleaned from the survey.
OUR COMMITMENT TO CLERGY FAMILIES
Parents or guardians of Episcopal clergy serving in the Diocese of Oklahoma have access to need-based financial aid for their children through Holland Hall, as well as additional funding resources. Often, that results in full — or close to full — tuitioncoverage.
Holland Hall offers a challenging, comprehensive educational experience grounded in a rigorous liberal arts, college preparatory curriculum that promotes critical thinking and lifelong learning. A PreK-12 Episcopal school, the school seeks to foster in each student a strong moral foundation and a deep sense of social responsibility.
OUR DIOCESE
Since 1837, the Episcopal Church in Oklahoma has attracted mission-minded clergy to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to build up the Body of Christ. Clergy called to serve in Oklahoma will be encouraged by Bishop Poulson Reed’s vision for congregational vitality, our strong clergy collegiality, and the spiritual and financial health of our Diocese. We are committed to our clergy and to our congregations. Through offerings such as Clergy Retreat, Vestry Academy, Faithful Innovation, Vitality Grants, and assistance from our diocesan staff, our clergy are connected, supported, and strengthened in their leadership.
St. Crispin’s Conference Center + Camp is the beautiful center of much of our diocesan life. It is home to our Summer Camp for children and youth, the Iona School for Formation, hosts our Diocesan Convention, our various clergy retreats, and lay leadership events.
Oklahoma is a growing state with energizing metro areas, strong mid-sized cities, and small towns, many of which are hidden gems characterized by benefits such as excellent quality of life, affordable cost of living, natural beauty, and academic and cultural vibrancy.
At the heart of our Diocese are our 66 congregations. In communities across Oklahoma, small and large, rural and urban, led by full-time or part-time clergy and dedicated lay leaders, Episcopalians gather to worship, form disciples of Jesus of all ages, and love and serve our neighbors. Our calling in congregations is to open ourselves to God’s blessing and purpose for us through spiritual practices. The primary calling of our Bishop and Diocesan Staff is to be in partnership with our congregations in order to offer resources and encouragement for greater vitality by God’s grace. Our mission priorities as a Diocese are, Vital Congregations, Steadfast Prayer, and Courageous Witness. Learn more about our Diocese by visiting, www.epiok.org.
OUR APPLICATION PROCESS
To apply to be the Vicar of Christ Church Episcopal in Tulsa, Oklahoma, please submit the following documents electronically:
- Resume/Curriculum Vitae
- “Letter of Interest” which highlights why you feel you may be called to serve as Vicar of Christ Church Episcopal
- Copy of your updated OTM profile
Please send electronically to The Rev. Canon Betsy Randall, Canon to the Ordinary email: canonbetsy@epiok.org
Thank you for your time and interest learning more about our parish! We look
forward to hearing from you!
At Christ Church, you can feel the presence of the Holy Spirit. It is
a loving, accepting place to worship. There is no condemnation,
but a celebration of the Grace which Christ bestowed on us all.
– Deanna Dudley-Mendenhall, Christ Church Parishioner
MAGI CULTURE AT ITS BEST
Ultimately concerned with the rational integrity of faith and just application of faith to life and the journey of understanding
Exhibits deep knowledge, open discourse and intellectual curiosity
Penetrating analytic culture
Powerful ally for those with minority status or who lack power to protect themselves
Not averse to wandering aspect of faith (i.e. travel/pilgrimage, lecturers brought on site, international exchanges for leadership)
Embraces meaningful changes necessary to engage a changing society
Combination of an adaptable approach to change and more progressive theological perspective results in strengths including exploration, advocacy, and inclusiveness
Develops clear and compelling vision for the future allowing for clarity about who you are and what you do that is unique
According to our Holy Cow consultant, a “Magi” church is described as a “rare, desirable balance of two dichotomies that shows our church body is both progressive and adaptive.” Our consultant said she sees “strong churches that represent one or the other really well; however, Christ Church represents both!” We are delighted at this unique distinction, but we know we must not be complacent. Our three top priorities for growth among all age groups are the following:
Create opportunities for people to form meaningful relationships.
Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to welcome new members and incorporate them into the life of the church.
Develop ministries that are dedicated to healing those broken by life circumstances.
