Church News

Oasis Provides An Outdoor Sanctuary
August 04th 2013 by Staff Writer
Oasis Provides An Outdoor Sanctuary
Bloomfield, Missouri - Noted as a "Community of Grace", Oasis is a group of believers devoted to delivering the message of the love of Jesus Christ at places that might seem a little out of the ordinary.  But the beauty of the Boat House provided the perfect backdrop as the sounds of the Oasis Band echoed throughout the wooded area and lake.

The stroll down this unusual lane is the brainchild of Brad Aycock.  A very successful businessman, Brad accepted a call to the ministry several years ago. 

Brad was always known for his extraordinary ways of promoting and bringing special attention to area athletes through events such as the BA Sports Extravaganza.  Brad has continued his marketing prowess in the ministry with events such as Oasis and other extraordinary events.

/images/2012 Article Pics/Faith/Oasis Aug13 Mida.jpg"My summer has been filled following this guy around (Brad)," said Oasis band lead singer, Daniel Sexton.  "We've been setting up in parks and different places to share our music and the message of God's love for others."

Daniel is a past educator in the Southeast Missouri area.  Well known for his musical talents, Daniel has also recently made a career change into full time music ministry.

"God's Grace For All" is the committed direction of Oasis.  Finding a way to take the gospel of Jesus Christ to places that ordinarily would not hear of His love. 

As an extension of the First United Methodist Church of Sikeston, Brad, Daniel and other staff members work diligently to get outside the typical walls of the Church building.

"We believe the local church is the hope of the world," noted Brad.  "The leadership and these volunteers are willing to go anywhere to reach people with the message of hope found in Jesus."

/images/2012 Article Pics/Faith/Oasis Aug13 Mid.jpg"The church is not the building, it's the people. The church doesn't exist FOR us. The church is us," added Aycock. 

The willingness of the Church as a whole has shown as their average weekly attendance has grown from 300 to 700 over the past three years.  It has rejuvenated the community and a spirit for God reaching many that have not had a relationship with Jesus Christ.

"Over 85% of American churches are dying," Brad went on to explain. "The message should never change, but we have to rethink the methods."

"Out goal is to get outside the walls if the church building and meet people where they are," said Aycock.  "Some people may never step into a church building, for many good reasons. We want to take the opportunity to these people who need hope but don't know where to turn."

Since Oasis was launched 6 months ago, they have averaged around 120 people in attendance and have had three baptisms in the lake. 

"Many of the first-time guests have come to see what this "Oasis" is all about," Aycock explained.  "You don't see church at a winery very often."

As Oasis continues to grow at the Boat House Wine Company, everyone is invited to come and experience this laid back style of worship and fellowship.  Oasis provides a great way to prepare your heart each month. 

You will also find a great dining experience at the Boat House with an excellent menu ranging from nachos to pizza.  Great music, great food and the outdoor atmosphere provides for a perfect evening.

"We're grateful to the Boat House owners for this opportunity," added Aycock. 


NOTE:  Oasis at the Boat House is held the first Sunday of each month.  Due to the Labor Day Holiday, the next event will be October 6th, 2013 at 6:00 PM.


/images/2012 Article Pics/Faith/Oasis Aug13 BOT.jpg

Last Updated on August 04th 2013 by Dee Loflin




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