The UCG Oklahoma City Speech and Leadership Club held its third annual ladies’ night banquet at Legend’s Restaurant in Norman, Oklahoma, March 8. This year’s theme for the banquet was “Women of Valor.”  The guest speaker for the evening was Donald Ward, Council of Elders member and pastor of the East Texas Congregation. Dr. Ward was also the guest speaker at Sabbath services in Oklahoma City earlier that day. While the ladies’ night banquet is a special evening for all attendees, it is also a regular club meeting, which gives the ladies an opportunity to experience “speech club” at its best.

Club president David Nunn opened the meeting with the toastmaster’s welcome, and assistant club director Jerald Kliewer gave the opening prayer. After club members and guests enjoyed a wonderful dinner and dessert, the traditional table topics portion of the meeting was given by member Ron Griffith. During this portion of the meeting, all present were invited to give responses and comments to the questions. The speech presentation portion of the meeting began with club member Danny Jennings’ speech entitled “Perpetuating the Faith at Home—The Maternal Models of Lois and Eunice,” which was then followed by “Ruth—A Story of Redemption” given by club member Joel Muralla. Dr. Ward also gave a speech on “Principles of Family Leadership.” After the speeches concluded, Oklahoma City pastor and club director Mark Welch gave an overall summary of the meeting and closing remarks.

The premise behind Speech and Leadership Club is that godly leaders are not born, they are developed. A Christian leader exemplifies godly principles in his life by making choices that honor God. The leader’s effectiveness is multiplied when he is trained to speak and communicate well. Speech and Leadership Club is a classroom where this is taught and practiced. “And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2).