August 24, 20263 Minute Read
Discovering Our Strengths
Leadership isn't just about having a title or being in charge. It's about becoming the person God created you to be and using who you are to help someone else become who God created them to be. That's really the heart behind Mustang Naz Leads. We want to create an environment where leaders can better understand themselves, grow alongside others, receive encouragement and coaching, and intentionally invest in the next generation of leaders. Recently, I was talking with Robert D. Brown (he leads our Young Adult Group and is pictured above if you haven’t met him yet) about Mac Lake's Leading Yourself, and he asked a great question: “How do I discover my strengths?” One helpful resource that I’ve used is CliftonStrengths, which is an assessment developed by Gallup that helps you identify your natural talents and better understand how they influence the way you lead, relate to people, solve problems, and get things done. I learned that my top 5 strengths are: Competition, Empathy, Achiever, Belief, and Significance. This knowledge has helped me reframe the way I view myself in a lot of ways. Things I used to think may have been weak points were actually now celebrated. Things I thought I needed to be less of, I could now live into. To prove this point, here are a couple confessions of how I try to lay my skills down at the feet of Jesus. I sometimes worry about being overly competetive (just ask my family on board game night) but I’ve resolved to use my drive to be excellent as a springboard to becoming the best pastor that I know how to be. Not because I want to be competing against other pastors or churches, but because growing my skill in this area is one of the best offerings I can give to the Lord! Some days are hard and I wonder if things I do or say carry any significance in a world that is challenging. These days are hard, but it is comforting to know that my significance is not something I have been able to fabricate on my own. My significance is firmly rooted in the fact that Jesus loves me deeply and that God has called me to share His love with the world. My empathy tells me that I’m not the only one who needs to not just hear, but feel this good news. Seeing leadership through the lens of our strengths has freed me to focus on being who God has created me to be instead of just trying to measure up to who I think I should be. This way of thinking has also helped me see others for who God designed them to be instead of how I might see them on the surface. After being transformed in the way I think about things, (Romans 12), I’ve begun to consciously (and maybe even unconsciously) start seeing the things my friends were great at, and I began asking myself the question: “How can I help create more of what (insert name) is great at in their lives, our church, our community, and the world?” So let’s look deeper into what brings us joy today and analyze our strengths in this season of life. Discovering our strengths isn't about putting ourselves in boxes; it's about gaining a better understanding of how God has uniquely wired us. May we all become more intentional in how we serve, lead, and invest in others! -Pastor Nate
August 21, 20262 Minute Read
Weekly Update August 21st
Welcome to the weekly roundup 👋 This is your one-stop spot for everything happening in our church family. From kids to adults, small groups to special events, here's how you can get connected over the next seven days. Sunday Morning, August 23rd Sunday School Groups @ 9:30 AM Family Sunday Worship Service @ 10:30 AM in the Sanctuary. All ages from Kindergarten up will worship together in this service together.(Early Childhood Ministries will be available.) We will be receiving communion and offering baptisms in this service. Sunday Evening, August 23rd Young Adult Hangout @ The Cummings House Young Adults are invited to cool off in the pool, enjoy ice cream, play games, and grow spiritually together through a group devotional led by Robert Brown.Learn More & RSVP Here Wednesday, August 26th Group Life @ 6:30 PM in East Wing. NazKids - 6:30 PM NazStudents will meet @ 6:30 PM in the Youth Room. Fostering Our Villiage is open from 5:30 - 7:30 PM.Find A Group NazKidsLearn More NazStudentsLearn MoreNew here? We'd love to connect. This Week's MessageWatch Now Are You Game?Order Now Giving Your generosity makes our work in this city and around the world possible. We’re so grateful for you. New to our community? No pressure. Today, just be our guest.Give Now Here Stay Connected 📩 Subscribe to this Collection to get these updates delivered directly to your inbox. 📸 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. 💬 Pastoral care or questions? Connect with us here. See you Sunday! Sunday School Groups at 9:30 AM Worship Services at 11:30 AM 700 E State Hwy 152 Mustang, OK 73099
August 14, 20262 Minute Read
Weekly Update August 14th
Welcome to the weekly roundup 👋 This is your one-stop spot for everything happening in our church family. From kids to adults, small groups to special events, here's how you can get connected over the next seven days. Saturday, August 15th Paul Stroud Celebration of Life Service @ 2:00 PM in the Sanctuary Sunday, August 16th Missions Breakfast @ 9:30 AM in the Gym Worship Service @ 10:30 AM in the Sanctuary Wednesday, August 12th Group Life @ 6:30 PM in East Wing. NazKids - 6:30 PM NazStudents will meet @ 6:30 PM in the Youth Room. Fostering Our Villiage is open from 5:30 - 7:30 PM. NazKidsLearn More NazStudentsLearn MoreNew here? We'd love to connect. This Week's MessageWatch Now Giving Your generosity makes our work in this city and around the world possible. We’re so grateful for you. New to our community? No pressure. Today, just be our guest.Give Now Here Stay Connected 📩 Subscribe to this Collection to get these updates delivered directly to your inbox. 📸 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. 💬 Pastoral care or questions? Connect with us here. See you Sunday! Sunday School Groups at 9:30 AM Worship Services at 11:30 AM 700 E State Hwy 152 Mustang, OK 73099
August 13, 20264 Minute Read
What's A Cohort?!?
Believe it or not, I’ve been in full time pastoral ministry for 26 years. That’s a strange revelation. Not only have I been a Pastor for over a quarter-century, I’ve also lived my entire life in either a parsonage or dorm of some type since I took up the family trade. (Thanks Dad!) When I left Southern Nazarene University in May of 2000, I’d hoped my education and life experience had prepared me for everything a pastorate could bring. SPOILER ALERT: It did not! Fortunately many churches and laypeople poured into me and helped shape me over the years, but in 2009 I discovered the power of a small group called a cohort. I had no idea what a cohort was, but it sounded important. What I learned is that a cohort is simply a small group of three or four leaders who connect regularly to grow together on purpose. My first cohort was a group of pastors from different denominations who opened my eyes to several forms of encouragement, accountability, and a new pathway of collaborative learning. It was a place to talk about what I was learning, and even more importantly, I wasn’t expected to be an expert or some spiritual guru...I was just allowed to grow. Pastors need that more than you may know. Our goal is to provide a similar learning pathway to the leaders of our church through studying Leading Yourself. We’re creating the same cohort model that shaped me as a safe place to share what we're experiencing in leadership, ask questions, pray for one another, and encourage each other to keep growing. We believe deeply that no one leads alone. Every leader needs people who know them, encourage them, challenge them, and walk alongside them. As we’ve been in the early stages of launching Mustang Naz Leads, several leaders have asked us, “How do I get into a cohort?” That question helped our staff realize that, while we've talked a lot about Mustang Naz Leads, we needed to make the next steps clearer and easier to follow. With that in mind, we've created a Mustang Naz Leads Interest Form. If you're interested in growing as a leader, joining a cohort, developing an apprentice, or simply figuring out where you fit, complete the form below. It will give our staff the information we need to help connect you with the right people and opportunities.Mustang Naz Leads Interest Form We also know there are times when you need a more personal conversation, which is why participants of the Mustang Naz Leads have the opportunity for one-on-one coaching with one of our staff pastors. Each month participants can schedule a 30-minute coaching conversation or grab coffee with a pastor of your choice. Bring a leadership challenge you're facing, talk about your strengths, work through a goal, discuss how to develop an apprentice, or simply talk about where God may be leading you next. Coaching isn't about having someone give you all the answers; it's about having someone come alongside you and help you keep moving forward.Schedule a 30-Minute Coaching Conversation Why are we investing in all of this? Because at Mustang Naz, we believe every leader is a Disciple Maker. We're not simply trying to fill positions or find more volunteers. We want to develop people who develop people. We want leaders who are learning to lead themselves well, who are growing alongside others, and who are intentionally investing what God has given them into someone else. That's what Mustang Naz Leads is all about: leading yourself, growing with others, investing in an apprentice, and multiplying what God has placed in you. You don't have to have everything figured out before you begin. You simply need to be willing to take your next step. Continuing to Lead and to Serve, -Pastor Nate
August 5, 20262 Minute Read
Weekly Update August 7th
Welcome to the weekly roundup 👋 This is your one-stop spot for everything happening in our church family. From kids to adults, small groups to special events, here's how you can get connected over the next seven days. Sunday, August 9th Breakfast with our Pastors @9:00 am Ministry Fair after service in the foyer. Wednesday, August 12th Cunningham Peach Fundraiser (NazKids) Discover Mustang Naz in room 303 @ 6:30 pm. Pastor Steve Ruby - 1st Corinthians study @ 6:30 PM in room 301. NazKids - 6:30 PM NazStudents will meet @ 6:30 PM in the Youth Room. Fostering Our Villiage is open from 5:30 - 7:30 PM. Upcoming Events Food Pantry 8/15 - Open 1:00 - 3:00 PM Missions Breakfast 8/16 - 9:30 AM in the GymNew here? We'd love to connect. This Week's Message "I’m Game" Pastor Nate Burns What if the biggest thing standing between you and God's purpose isn't ability—it's comfort? This Sunday we'll explore the stories of Abram and the first disciples, discovering that God's greatest work begins on the other side of our "yes." Following Jesus isn't about having all the answers—it's about taking the next step of faith. Join us as we kick off our new series, I'm Game, and discover what it means to get off the sidelines and into the game God has called you to play. Watch last week’s sermon 👇 Giving Your generosity makes our work in this city and around the world possible. We’re so grateful for you. New to our community? No pressure. Today, just be our guest.Give Now Here Stay Connected 📩 Subscribe to this Collection to get these updates delivered directly to your inbox. 📸 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. 💬 Pastoral care or questions? Connect with us here. See you Sunday! Sunday School Groups at 9:30 AM Worship Services at 11:30 AM 700 E State Hwy 152 Mustang, OK 73099
August 5, 20264 Minute Read
No One Leads Alone
Last Wednesday was an exciting time! As our church staff board are initiating our new Mustang Naz Leads emphasis, I had the opportunity to meet in the community room with over 20 leaders who serve in different areas of our church. We had people from every scope of consistent ministry represented in our conversations. Some have been attending and serving our community for decades, others were people who have recently adopted Mustang Naz as their home church. It was truly a beautiful cross section of our people and I can’t wait to see how we grow. While there was overwhelming enthusiasm for this mission, there was one consistent question: “How are we going to accomplish the goal of making disciples, who make disciples, who make disciples?” Admittedly this is a big question, and likely an ever shifting answer. It can be a challenge to get people, even people who want the same things, on the same page! What I believe our team is actually needing more than excited intentions is a repeatable process. After doing some studying on my own, these are the first steps I believe we can take to implement growth in the area of Leadership Development. Choosing A Top Notch Roadmap I’m excited to read the book Leading Yourself by Mac Lake with everyone who participates in Mustang Naz Leads. We have additional copies available and if you haven’t picked up a copy we’d love to get one of the books in your hands. Scheduled Leadership Gatherings One reason new efforts struggle to maintain momentum is because sometimes we struggle to maintain consistency in those things. This is why we have to stick to a schedule. After we have had a few weeks of open invitation, we will be closing this session of Mustang Naz Leads so that this group of leaders can progress and we will begin the waiting list for the next session of the group for anyone who might be ready by that time. Every other month, all leaders will gather together to discuss the book, learn leadership principles, encourage one another, and grow together. Our next gathering is Wednesday, September 30th, and we will be discussing Module 1: Leading On Mission of the book. Leadership Cohorts Between gatherings, you will meet with a cohort of three or four leaders. Cohorts will meet monthly or every other month, depending on what works best for your group. You are welcome to choose your own cohort, or we will be happy to connect you with one. Monthly Coaching Once each month, you will have the opportunity to meet with a staff pastor for a coaching conversation. This can be done in person or online and is designed to encourage you, answer questions, help you navigate challenges, and support your continued growth. We’re still working out our scheduling process to help our pastors facilitate this in a structured way, but we will have this completed soon and will create a new post when it is accomplished. Why are we doing this? We believe leadership is not built through information alone. It is developed through knowledge, ministry experience, coaching, and relationships. Healthy leaders develop healthy ministries, and healthy leaders invest in future leaders. Our prayer is that every leader at Mustang Naz is growing personally, leading effectively, and intentionally developing an apprentice who will be ready to lead in the future. We are excited to take this journey together as we become leaders who make disciples and disciples who make more disciples. If you missed our first session and want to step into leadership, tap the button below and get connected with us now!More Information Leading with you! -Pastor Nate
July 31, 20263 Minute Read
Mustang Naz Leads
This week reminded me why leadership matters. While I was away on vacation, our church family walked through multiple funerals. I’ll be honest, I wrestled with being gone. Part of me wondered if I could really afford to be away during such an important time. But then I watched our leaders step in. Pastor BJ, Pastor Kym, Michelle, Amy, and so many others organized meals, communicated with families, coordinated details, and most importantly, loved people well. They became the hands and feet of Jesus to families who were hurting. Ministry didn’t stop because one pastor was out of town. It continued because faithful leaders answered the call. It reminded me of something I deeply believe: I couldn’t afford not to have great leaders ready to step in. That’s exactly why we’re launching Mustang Naz Leads. We often lean into the idea that “No One Prays Alone at Mustang Naz” as one of our core cultural values. In this season I believe God is calling us to also adopt the idea that “No One Leads Alone at Mustang Naz.” Matthew 9:35-38 tells us: Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” Leadership isn’t about building a bigger staff, it’s about building more disciples who are equipped to lead. Every ministry needs apprentices. Every leader needs to be developing another leader. That’s how the Church multiplies, cares for people, and fulfills God’s mission together. The future of Mustang Naz isn’t built on one leader. It’s built on leaders who develop leaders. And that’s exactly where we’re headed together. As I ponder and pray about this new emphasis for our future, I’ll be writing a series of updates on how we’re going to accomplish our goal to replicate the great leaders that God has already entrusted to us. To guide us through our first season of Mustang Naz Leads we’re going to be studying a book by Mac Lake called Leading Yourself. We have copies of the book available, and a great next step for you if you feel God nudging you toward greater service is to just tap the learn more button at the bottom of this note. There you can send us an email letting us know that you’re interested in getting more connected in serving. Thank you to every one of you who stepped up this week. You didn’t just fill a role, you represented Jesus. I’m grateful to serve alongside a team that leads with both competence and compassion! See You Sunday! -Pastor NateLearn More
July 17, 20265 Minute Read
I'm Game
What if this is the month you stop watching from the sidelines and step into all God has for you? I don’t know about you, but I love baseball. In fact, going to baseball games has been a very meaningful tradition in our family. Our goal is to visit as many Major League Baseball Parks as we can and we’re currently gearing up for a road trip with them to go visit three different cities in the next couple weeks. We’re going to start at Comiskey Park (yes, I know the name changed...but nostalgia means something right?), we’ll continue up the coast of Lake Michigan to Milwaukee to catch a Brewers game, and will venture through dairy country to see the Twins. We’d greatly appreciate your prayers as we travel, make memories, and enjoy being together over these next couple weeks! As we get ready to hit the road, I just can’t help but sing John Fogerty’s classic song Centerfield. Put Me In Coach... I’m ready to play... Today. Look at me... I can be... Centerfield. As our staff has been praying about what God would have us do this fall, the song is staying in my head because I love the real message of the song. The singer sees that there’s more joy in being on the field than in the dugout. He’s desperate to get his chance to show that he can contribute to the team, not just in the future, but today. Not just in any position, but in Centerfield. Right in the thick of the action! Throughout August, our I'm Game series is an invitation to do the same in our Faith Lives. Whether your next step is to grow, serve, give, lead, or be baptized, we believe God has something just for you. Our Kids and Teens Are Game To Level Up We step up to the plate on August 2 with Promotion Sunday, as our children and students move into their new classes and begin a new ministry year. Are you game to grow in your personal spiritual formation this year? August 5 at 6:30 PM, we celebrate our Midweek Kickoff! Join us for First Wednesday Worship that night and each First Wednesday service through the end of the year. Are you game to see your families lock into the year by centering their weeks on learning more about Jesus? Get your students plugged in with NazKids and NazStudents and join one of our groups!. Bring the whole family as we launch a new season of Wednesday night ministries. Midweek is a great place to build relationships, grow in your faith, and stay encouraged by others throughout the week.Find A Group Are You Game To Go Deeper? If you’re new to Mustang Naz join us August 9th 9:00 AM for Breakfast with the Pastors. This is a great opportunity to learn more about our church and meet our pastoral Team. Following worship, our group leaders are hosting a Ministry Fair will help you discover small groups and serving opportunities where you can use your gifts to make a difference. We’ll follow that morning up on Wednesday August 12 with Discover Mustang Naz at 6:30 PM. learn more about who we are, what we believe, and how you can become part of our church family.Next Steps Are You Game For Joining A Global Movement? To hear some of our latest mission work, join us August 16 for Breakfast at 9:30 AM in our Gym. We’ll be welcoming Missionaries Chris and Courtney Troutman and Pastors Chase and Hannah Matson. The Troutmans are overseas missionaries for the Church of the Nazarene with extensive work and experience in Mongolia, and the Matsons are planting The Commons Church of the Nazarene right here in Oklahoma City. It’ll be a great morning to see all of the places and all of the ways God is changing lives through the Church of the Nazarene!Mustang Naz On Mission Are You Game To Go Public With Your Faith? We're celebrating Family Sunday a week early on August 23, and one of the highlights will be baptisms. If you've placed your faith in Jesus but have never been baptized, this is your opportunity to go public with your faith. Baptism is a beautiful declaration that your life belongs to Christ. Have you decided it's time to take that step?I'm Interested In Baptism Are You Game To Join The Team? Finally, on August 30, we'll conclude the series with a challenge to join something new in the life of our church. Every follower of Jesus has a purpose, and every person has a place to serve. God hasn't called us to sit on the sidelines. He's called us into the Game. We pray that everyone will find a place to belong, serve, and grow this fall.Email Serve@MustangNaz.org We believe there's a place for you at Mustang Naz. I'm Game. Are you? -Pastor Nate
July 1, 20262 Minute Read
Weekly Update July 1st
Welcome to the weekly roundup 👋 This is your one-stop spot for everything happening in our church family. From kids to adults, small groups to special events, here's how you can get connected over the next seven days. Wednesday, July 8th Parents' Night Out is from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. NazStudents will meet @ 6:30 PM in the Youth Room (Room 308) Pastor Steve Ruby - 1st Corinthians study @ 6:30 PM in room 301. Saturday, July 18th Food Pantry 1:00 - 3:00 PM Open and Meal with Guests Upcoming Events SWOK Youth Camp July 18th - 22nd - Registration ends July 17th Fall Kickoff - On August 2nd, we’ll begin locking in for the school year. We’ll be promoting our NazKids and Students to their next grades for classes, and we’ll be starting a sermon series called “I’m Game.” This series will help us look at how each of us can get more involved in the mission and vision of how we live out being the church here at Mustang Naz!New here? We'd love to connect. This Week's Message Watch last week’s sermon 👇Watch Now Giving Your generosity makes our work in this city and around the world possible. We’re so grateful for you. New to our community? No pressure. Today, just be our guest.Give Now Stay Connected 📩 Subscribe to this Collection to get these updates delivered directly to your inbox. 💬 Pastoral care or questions? Connect with us here. Services: Sunday School Groups are at 9:30 AM & Worship Service is at 10:30 AM 700 E State Hwy 152, Mustang, OK 73064 See you soon! -Pastor Nate
June 29, 20263 Minute Read
Mustang Naz Lead
Dear Mustang Naz Leaders, We are launching a new leadership development process Mustang Naz Leads beginning on Wednesday, July 29, at 6:30 pm, in the Community Room for all those at Mustang Naz who find themselves in leadership positions. At Mustang Naz, we value connection and community. Our mission is to show the Love of Jesus to Everyone. Everywhere. Every Day. The mission of the Church in the world is to continue to share in the redemptive and reconciling ministry work of Christ in the power of the Spirit [through holy living, evangelism, discipleship, and service. The Church fulfills its mission by making disciples through evangelism, education, showing compassion, working for justice, and bearing witness to the kingdom of God. The Church is a historical reality, which organizes itself in culturally conditioned forms; exists both as local congregations and as a universal body; sets apart persons called of God for specific ministries. (Church of the Nazarene, Article of Faith XI) Recently, our pastors, board members, and leadership committees have prayerfully been sensing God’s call to press into intentionally participating in this missional emphasis of the Church. We have been hearing you ask: “So, how do we do it?”, “Help us make this practical”, “Is there a process?”. You are offering time, talents, and resources. As such, you want to feel like your efforts and faithfulness are aligned with purpose. One of Mustang Naz’s core values is that we will dream big, take risks, work hard, and not settle for mediocre living. So now, we are inviting you along with this big dream we have- equipping disciples to become disciple makers! As a result, every leader is asked to identify and invest in an apprentice leader. Who do you want to invite along in the journey? As a year-long process, we will read and discuss Lead Yourself by Mac Lake. Leaders will be asked to read one chapter each month before the coaching conversation and the cohort discussion. To further develop character, habits, and leadership capacity needed to faithfully serve Christ and His Church, we will implement: 1. Bi-Monthly Large Group Gathering 2. Bi-Monthly Cohort Meetings 3. Monthly Coaching (virtual options available) Thank you for all the ways you are serving diligently. Thank you for your willingness to dream with us about new and deeper ways to lead, serve, and disciple others. We are excited to see what God will do as we intentionally grow ourselves and develop the next generation of leaders at Mustang Naz. We’ll see you Wednesday, July 29, at 6:30 pm, in the Community Room! Serving together, Pastor NateInterested? Let us know!
June 23, 20262 Minute Read
Weekly Update June 24th
Welcome to the weekly roundup 👋 This is your one-stop spot for everything happening in our church family. From kids to adults, small groups to special events, here's how you can get connected over the next seven days. Wednesday, July 8th Parents' Night Out is from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. NazStudents will meet @ 6:30 PM in the Youth Room (Room 308) Pastor Steve Ruby - 1st Corinthians study in room 301. Saturday, July 18th Food Pantry 1:00 - 3:00 PM Open and Meal with Guests Upcoming Events SWOK Youth Camp - Registration ends July 17th Fall Kickoff - On August 2nd, we’ll begin locking in for the school year. We’ll be promoting our NazKids and Students to their next grades for classes, and we’ll be starting a sermon series called “I’m Game.” This series will help us look at how each of us can get more involved in the mission and vision of how we live out being the church here at Mustang Naz!New here? We'd love to connect. This Week's Message Watch last week’s sermon 👇Watch Now Giving Your generosity makes our work in this city and around the world possible. We’re so grateful for you. New to our community? No pressure. Today, just be our guest.Give Now Stay Connected 📩 Subscribe to this Collection to get these updates delivered directly to your inbox. 💬 Pastoral care or questions? Connect with us here. Services: Sunday School Groups are at 9:30 AM & Worship Service is at 10:30 AM 700 E State Hwy 152, Mustang, OK 73064 See you soon! -Pastor Nate
June 17, 20262 Minute Read
Weekly Update June 17
Welcome to the weekly roundup 👋 This is your one-stop spot for everything happening in our church family. From kids to adults, small groups to special events, here's how you can get connected over the next seven days. Wednesday, June 17th Kids Camp - No on campus NazKids Programming. NazStudents will meet @ 6:30 PM in the Youth Room (Room 308) Pastor Steve Ruby - 1st Corinthians study in room 301. Fostering Our Village is open from 5:30 - 7:30 PM. Use the north west entrance. Saturday, June 20th Food Pantry is open this Saturday and will be serving lunch from 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Everyone is welcome! Sunday, June 21th NazKids VBS Continues! Check in begins at 9:20 AM and the VBS experience goes through 11:30 AM. Sunday School Groups meet at 9:30 AM and Worship Service is at 10:30 AM. Click here for help finding a group if you haven’t joined one already. Happy Father’s Day! We have a small gift for all of the dads who join us. Thanks for everything you all do! Upcoming Events Kids Camp - Continues through Thursday June 18th. Click here for all of the Kids Camp Essentials Fireworks Fundraiser - Visit Fireworks Central to learn how to support our teens as they raise funds for key spiritual formation trips like camp, NYC, Fall Retreat, and more. Freedom Celebration - Sunday, June 28th at Salyer Lake. SWOK Youth Camp - Early registration ends July 1stNew here? We'd love to connect. This Week's Message Watch last week’s sermon 👇Watch Now Giving Your generosity makes our work in this city and around the world possible. We’re so grateful for you. New to our community? No pressure. Today, just be our guest.Give Now Stay Connected 📩 Subscribe to this Collection to get these updates delivered directly to your inbox. 💬 Pastoral care or questions? Connect with us here. Services: Sunday School Groups are at 9:30 AM & Worship Service is at 10:30 AM 700 E State Hwy 152, Mustang, OK 73064 See you soon! -Pastor Nate
Kym Drabenstot
Kids Discipleship Pastor
September 27, 20261 Minute Read
This October in NazKids
Are You Up To The Challenge? Insert a personal note from Pastor Kym about why she’s excited for kids to memorize the books of the Bible.Books Of The Bible Song NazKids Schedule Sundays Sunday School Groups@ 9:30 AM Kids’ Worship Service meets in The NazKids Worship Center @ 10:30 AM Wednesdays Route 252 Discipleship (Grades K - 6) meets in The NazKids Worship Center @ 6:30 PM Early Childhood Activities are available.Plan A Visit Important Dates Parents’ Night Out is September 11th Brief synopsisRegister Now Preteen Breakout is September 13th Brief SynopsisLearn More Family Worship is September 27th We’ll have NazKids from Kindergarten up join us in our main worship service that morning at 10:30 AM. Nursery aged programming will still be in session.
August 31, 20262 Minute Read
This September in NazKids
Are You Up To The Challenge? We have been memorizing the Books of the Bible, set to a song with actions. There will be an outing planned for all who can quote the first 39 books from memory by September 16!Books Of The Bible Song NazKids Schedule Sundays Sunday School Groups @ 9:30 AM Kids’ Worship Service meets in Discovery Island @ 10:30 AM Wednesdays Route 252 (Discipleship for Grades K - 6) meets in Discovery Island @ 6:30-7:30 PM Early Childhood Classes are available for Nursery (6 weeks to Age 3) and Pre-K (Ages 3-5) while parents participate in adult classes on the MCN campus @6:30-7:30.Plan A Visit Important Dates Parents’ Night Out is September 11th Childcare for kids (Age 6 months to Grade 4) with dinner provided. Activities include games, moon bounce (Pre-K & Under), Flashlight Hide & Seek (K-4th), and more. Spots are limited for Age 3 & Under. Preregister early to reserve your free spot. $10/child at the door.Register Now Preteen Ministries (Grades 5-6) Preteens meet weekly for Sunday School @ 9:30 am, have Breakout (a special service once a month designed just for them), and participate in quarterly events. Next Breakout is on September 13 @ 10:30 am in CrossWalk room.Learn More Family Worship is September 27th NazKids (Kindergarten through Grade 6) will join in the sanctuary for our main worship service @10:30 AM. Activity packs available at the check-in center. Early Childhood classes (Nursery & Pre-K) will still be in session on Family Worship Sunday.
August 3, 20262 Minute Read
August NazKids Updates
Get in the game with NazKids ⚾ We had an amazing Promotion Sunday yesterday and we’re gearing up for another school year of building friendships, learning about Jesus, and learning to take His Good News into the world! I can’t wait to spend the semester spending time with everyone and watching how God will show up in each of our lives! Our NazKids ministry is built on the verse Luke 2:52 which says: “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Let’s commit to praying this verse over our kids this year! See you soon! -Pastor Kym NazKids Sunday Schedule Sunday School @ 9:30 AM Kids’ Worship @ 10:30 AM August 30th we’ll have a special worship service called Worship & Waffles for Pre-K - 6th Graders.Got Allergies? Let us know! Join us for our Wednesday Night Kickoff! This week at 6:30 we’ll be hosting a night at the splash pad for grades K-6. Be sure to dress for water activities! Nursery aged kids (6 weeks - 4 years) will have indoor activities with nursery staff, but parents are also able to supervise their younger kids in the splash pad as well. Starting on August 12th we will meet each Wednesday at 6:30 PM as part of our School Year Schedule! 5th & 6th Grade News Sunday August 9th is we’ll be hosting a Cooking & Swimming Party from 12:00 - 3:00 PMRSVP Here and Get Directions Family Worship in on August 23rd We’ll have NazKids from Kindergarten up join us in our main worship service that morning at 10:30 AM. Nursery aged programming will still be in session. NazKids Leaders’ Training We’re hosting a training session to help empower our volunteers to really invest well into the lives of our Kids. There will be both an adult session and one for our pre-teen and teenage leaders. Pre-teen and teenager training is from 12:00 - 1:00 PM (Lunch Included) Adult training is from 5:00 - 6:30 PM (Dinner Included)
June 23, 20261 Minute Read
NazKids VBS Finale
Parents Night Out! On June 24th from 6:30 - 8:00 PM, we’d like to invite families to drop off their kids for a night of games, activities, snacks, and more! VBS has TWO MORE Weeks! 🦜 We’ve been spending Sunday Mornings at Rainforest Falls learning about the Nature of God. This week is our NazKids VBS Finale. We’ll still check in at 9:30 AM for our final VBS activities before our celebration service in the sanctuary at 10:30 AM. We’ll sing VBS songs and our NazKids Pastoral team will lead our message that morning. This week’s big idea is that God is Forever! If you haven’t joined us yet, please sign up here to check in as fast as possible.Sign Up Here! Don’t forget! We are in the Rainforest....Dress in your favorite rainforest attire. It might get wild! Summer Wednesday Activities Here’s how you can get connected with us this Summer. July 1st - 22nd NazKids Summer Break - No Wednesday Night Activities. Have a great Summer! July 29th - Parents Night Out - Kids will participate in games, activities, snacks, and more from 6:30 - 8:00 PM. Thanks for joining us for Summer Fun! -Pastor Kym
June 16, 20262 Minute Read
NazKids Summer Rolls On!
Pray for Kids Camp! 🏕️ Kids Camp @ Salyer Lake is hapening right now! We pray that each NazKid encounters Jesus in a new and special way this week and that we all learn to “Commit” our lives to Him. Thank you to everyone who has volunteered and given to this amazing spiritual formation opportunity for our kids! VBS has TWO MORE Weeks! 🦜 We’ve been spending Sunday Mornings at Rainforest Falls learning about the Nature of God. This week we’ll learn that God is not only creative, faithful, and compassionate; He’s also Loving! Join us the next two Sundays at 9:30. This week (June 21st) will be more session of our full Sunday VBS Schedule and June 28th is our VBS Sunday in the Sanctuary as we wrap up our trip to Rainforest Falls with our whole church family! If you haven’t joined us yet, please sign up here to check in as fast as possible.Sign Up Here! Don’t forget! We are in the Rainforest....Dress in your favorite rainforest attire. It might get wild! Summer Wednesday Activities Here’s how you can get connected with us this Summer. June 17th - Kids Camp @ Salyer Lake (No on campus activities) June 24th - Parents Night Out. Kids will participate in games, activities, snacks, and more from 6:30 - 8:00 PM. July 1st - 22nd NazKids Summer Break July 29th - Parents Night Out. Kids will participate in games, activities, snacks, and more from 6:30 - 8:00 PM. Thanks for joining us for Summer Fun! -Pastor Kym
June 12, 20262 Minute Read
Kids Camp Essentials
Kids Camp is next Monday! Every year this is one of my favorite times to watch our kids (and camp counselors!) have fun and grow closer to Jesus together. This year’s theme will encourage us to “Commit” ourselves to Jesus. Please join us in prayer that God will speak to us next week and that lives will be changed forever! Travel Times We will depart Mustang Naz at 1:00 PM on Monday June 15th. Check in and loading will begin at 12:45. (Be sure to eat lunch before you arrive.) Return to Mustang Naz is scheduled for Thursday June 18th at 12:30 PM Things You Will Need… As we prepare to go to Salyer Lake Camp together, here are all of the things you will need to fully participate in the camp.Packing List Items Not To Bring Money, phones, electronics, toys, dangerous items, weapons (including pocket knives), non prescription medications, drugs/alcohol, animals, or bad attitudes.Medication Form Please fill out the attached form and turned into camp staff before loading the bus. ALL MEDICATION NEEDS TO BE PLACED IN A GALLON SIZE ZIPLOC WITH INSTRUCTIONS & THE CAMPERS NAME WRITTEN ON IT AND TURNED IN UPON ARRIVAL TO THE CHURCH! We’re going to have an amazing time and are grateful for everyone who will be joining us! -Pastor Kym
June 9, 20261 Minute Read
June With NazKids
VBS has been AWESOME! 2 Sundays Left! 🦜 We’ve spent the last two weeks learning about God the Creator and how God is faithful. Join us this Sunday at 9:30 to look at how God is compassionate. If you haven’t joined us yet, please sign up here to check in as fast as possible.Sign Up Here! Don’t forget we are in the Rainforest....Dress in your favorite rainforest attire. On Wednesday, Family Swim Night at the Redwine’s home from 6:30-8 pm. For children who aren’t strong swimmers, lifejackets are suggested. Eat before you come and see you and your parent/guardian there!Ask For Directions Kids Camp is next week! Tap here for everything you need to know about preparing for Kids Camp! 👇Everything You Need To Know Thanks for joining us for Summer Fun! -Pastor Kym
May 27, 20261 Minute Read
VBS Is Here!
Welcome to Rainforest Falls! 🦜🌴 Tonight is out VBS 2026 Kickoff and we couldn’t be more excited to learn about the Nature of God with everyone this year!Sign Up Here On Sunday Mornings from May 31st to June 28th we’re hosting VBS @ Mustang Naz. Each session will begin at 9:30 AM (check in begins at 9:20) and our NazKids will go through different stations of Bible lessons, games, crafts, snacks, music, and more! Parents, if you want to pregame the messages during family devotional time, our first week’s lesson highlights how God Created everything. Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." Our prayer is that our kids will learn that God is very powerful and that they are loved by Him very much! We have an incredible crew of volunteers helping us facilitate VBS and are thankful for each and every one of them! Be sure to thank them when you see them! Don’t Forget! The Rainforest is unpredictable and we will want to have everyone prepared for whatever might happen! Dress in your finest rainforest gear instead of your “Sunday best” because we will have games that might involve water adventures!
Deanna Shay
Spiritual Formation Pastor
June 3, 2026
Summer Reading Plan
Brady Wiesinger
Student Discipleship Pastor
August 13, 2026
Naz Students Fall Calendar
July 15, 20263 Minute Read
Teen Camp Travel Plan
We’re so excited that you’re joining Mustang Naz Students for Youth Camp!  Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned senior, we’re excited to see how God will use this time to grow us more like Him!  Please make sure that your parents/guardians have signed our activity waiver.Sign The Waiver Here Travel Schedule Vehicles load at Mustang Naz Saturday 7/18 at 11:45 AM. We will leave at 12:00 PM and check in at Salyer Lake at 1:00 PM. Eat lunch BEFORE you come Saturday! We return to Mustang Naz around 1:00 PM on Wednesday 7/22. Please text  NAZSTUDENTS  to  405-777-4776  to opt in for communication updates! All updates will be sent through our Group Text system. Things To Look Forward To Camp adventures Saturday - Wednesday SNU’s Remedy & SNU Crew will be leading worship, playing games, and spending time with us. Pastor Travis Lee is the speaker Activities & Free Time Theme Nights One of our camp traditions is to participate in optional dress up nights for extra fun. Saturday - Neon Colors Sunday - Sports Jerseys Monday - Camo Day Wednesday - Western Wear Meals Salyer Lake Camp is providing all meals for campers. Our first meal with them will be dinner on Saturday and their final meal service will be lunch on Wednesday. (Meals will contain some dairy and gluten items/ingredients, feel free to send/bring snacks as preferred) Medication Policy All medications need to be transported in original containers, placed into a ziploc bag, be clearly marked with the student’s name, and have proper instructions included. All medication will be held by designated youth sponsors for safekeeping. Packing List Essentials Deodorant Bible Water bottle (Stay Hydrated!) Toothpaste/brush, BodyWash, Shampoo, Hair Products, Personal Hygiene, Deodorant, etc. Bedding (Sleeping bag/Sheets/Blanket) Pillow Towels/Washcloths (extra towel if you swim) Active wear (t-shirts, shorts, etc.), socks, and underwear for 5 days + extra?  It’s hot! One outfit that you don’t mind getting dirty Pajamas Athletic shoes (Shoes that can get dirty!) Sunscreen/Insect repellent Jacket or Hoodie if you get chilled in AC Modest Swimsuit if you plan to swim/boat in lake (life jackets available at lake) Good Ideas Cheap Sunglasses Flashlight Journal and Pen Hat Sandals or Slides for dorms/water activities Small backpack A modest amount of Snack Shack money. (Most things are $1-2 each) Snacks Card Games Don’t Bring! Anything illegal or Tobacco, Vapes, Alcohol, etc. Fireworks,  Guns, Knives, anything that can be reasonably mistaken for a weapon, etc. Anything expensive, large sums of cash, electronics, rare antiques, wild animals, family heirlooms, etc! Anything with peanuts. Thank you for helping us be allergy aware! See You On The Journey! -Pastor Brady
June 15, 20262 Minute Read
NazStudents Summer Schedule
Summer Is Here! I couldn’t be more excited for everything coming up in our youth ministry! We have an incredible season ahead with events like Youth Camp, Nazarene Youth Conference, and our fireworks fundraiser! These moments are so much more than just activities, they’re opportunities for students to grow in their faith, build lasting friendships, and create all kinds of memories together. Here’s Our Summer Schedule June 17th - Youth Group @ 6:30 PM June 24th - Youth Group @ 6:30 PM June 25th - July 5th - Fireworks Fundraiser (No On Campus Youth Group on July 1st) June 30 - July 8th - Nazarene Youth Conference July 8th - Youth Group @ 6:30 PM July 15th - Youth Group @ 6:30 PM July 18th - 22nd - Teen Camp Sign Up For Camp Here July 29th - Youth Group @ 6:30 PM Fireworks Central Thanks for coming to our Fireworks Meeting last Wednesday. We’re excited for an explosively good time raising funds for key spiritual formation events throughout the year with everyone who can participate. Everything you need to know to serve at the fireworks stand will be posted here!Fireworks Central Whether you’ve been part of youth group for years or you’re thinking about coming for the very first time, this is the perfect season to jump in and get connected. We truly believe God has amazing things in store this summer, and we would love for you to be part of it! -Pastor Brady
June 8, 20261 Minute Read
Youth Fireworks Central
This Is Fireworks Central From June 25th to July 5th we will be raising funds for students to use toward major youth group events like Camp, Fall Retreat, NYC, and Extravaganza by selling fireworks at Walmart in Mustang. It’s an explosively good time! The stands will be open for sales from June 27th to July 3rd from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM On July 4th the stand will be open for sales from 9:00 AM to 11:59 PM July 5th is clean up day at Wild Horse Park beginning at 8:00 AM 📅Sales Begin June 27th @ 4:00 PM 📍 Walmart In Mustang (951 E State Hwy 152) Important Links Everything you need to know to serve at the fireworks stand will be posted here.Sign Up To WorkFireworks Stand RulesWorker ScheduleMeal Train Sign Up
May 28, 20261 Minute Read
Celebrating Grads!
We had a great grad Sunday a couple weeks ago...well almost everything was great...except this video. So lets try again! So proud of all of our graduates, it has been great getting to know them all this past year. I will be praying for them and their futures, I ask that you join me in that! And if you have any spare change send it their way! Good Luck Class of 2026! -Pastor Brady Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
May 22, 20261 Minute Read
Youth Camp Registration
Summer Is Here! July 18-22 we’re headed back to Salyer Lake Camp for another week of fun during Southwest Oklahoma Nazarene Youth Camp! We’ll enjoy outdoor activities, building friendships, and spending intentional time with God in His creation. Youth Camp is for students who have completed grades 7-12. Early Registration is $270 and is open until July 1st. Late Registration is $290 and ends July 16th.Register NowPay For Camp
Crystal McKee
Celebrate Recovery Pastor
August 7, 20261 Minute Read
CR Sunday
September 6th is Celebrate Recovery Sunday We’re so excited to celebrate the one year anniversary of launching Celebrate Recovery at Mustang Naz! Our Monday night session averages 40-45 people at Large group weekly, and we’re witnessing God work in the lives of others. We’ve invited our Celebrate Recovery team to lead our Sunday Morning Worship Service on September 6th at 10:30 AM to show our whole congregation some of the ways that lives are changing through our group. Come experience the HOPE, FREEDOM, and HEALING that millions of people find at Celebrate Recovery! What to expect on Celebrate Sunday? Great worship music Amazing testimonies A supportive community People experiencing freedom Join us on Monday Nights Free Dinner – 5:30 PM Large Group – 6:30 PM Gender-Specific Small Groups – 7:30 PM Come find hope, healing, and a supportive community that understands what you’re walking through. You don’t have to do this alone. -Pastor CrystalLearn More About Celebrate Recovery
May 22, 20261 Minute Read
CR Store & Silent Auction
Did you know that Celebrate Recovery has a store? The CR store is one of the ways we support the ongoing work of setting people free from the hurts, habits, and hang-ups that happen throughout life. You can be a part of this by purchasing some CR Swag to wear out in the community so that we can raise awareness and continue reaching more people. 20% of each purchase goes directly to our ministry and all donations are appreciated!Check Out The Store We’re also hosting a Silent Auction! Don’t forget to stop by the CR table in our foyer this weekend to bid on 4 counseling sessions at All Things New Counseling here in Mustang. The winner will be announced after Memorial Day. Planning To Visit? Let Us Know!Get More Information