FROM SENIOR PASTOR DAVID JOYNT
I have so many great summer memories: fresh, still mornings on a lake in Canada, sun glistening off the water like a mirror. Fishing, sailing, and barbecuing until nightfall and then heading indoors to avoid “death by mosquito.” Enjoying a card game or a book beside the fire. Your memories may be sand beneath your toes, salt air and rhythmic waves on the beach, of pine needles and mountain vistas. Perhaps you roamed in an RV or explored a foreign locale. Summer for many of us was a break from responsibility, a respite from routine, a restful and refreshing change of scene.
But summer memories for me also include retreats, camps, and mission trips—opportunities for spiritual growth, service, and renewal. I hope this summer is restful and refreshing for you. But I also hope you have a plan for growth and renewal. This brochure has summer opportunities to deepen your faith and stretch your soul. When you are away you can still join in our worship experiences via livestream.
May you enjoy a summer that is healthy and holy!
Belong A place where you
SUNDAY WORSHIP
9AM,
Sanctuary & Livestream
This service includes music, prayer, space for kids, preaching, scripture, and an emphasis on community. Music is commonly led by VPC’s Chancel Choir and accompanied by our organ.
10:30AM,
Sanctuary & Livestream
Worship at this service contains many of the same elements as 9AM. Music is commonly led by VPC’s Worship Band with drums, guitar, piano, and bass.
Whether you decide to attend a service because of the time or musical style, you will find space to hear God’s Spirit and respond through Christ-centered worship to God’s acts of salvation and ongoing transformation in the world. Awaken Café, 8AM—1PM
*Single Services: May 4 & July 6, 9:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream*
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2025: TRUE NORTH For Kids 3 years old—5th grade
JUNE 23-27, 8:30AM-NOON $35 per child Sign up today: vpc.church/vbs
MONDAY—FRIDAY 7AM-2PM SATURDAY & SUNDAY 8AM-1PM
MAY
WORSHIP
May 4: Student Sunday/Single Service
9:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
May 11: Mother’s Day
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
May 18: Grad Sunday
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
May 25: Memorial Day Weekend
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
SUNDAYS
Sunday School
Sundays through May 18*, 9 & 10:30AM worship
Kids 3 years old through entering 5th grade Kids join their parents at the beginning of worship, then go with their teachers to class. At VPC we believe the church is a partner with parents as they raise their children as disciples of Christ.
*Single Service Sunday School May 4, 9:30AM
Family Workshops: Senior Summit
Sunday, May 4, 4:30-6:30PM, Sanctuary & Awaken Plaza Baccaulareate Worship Celebration & Dinner for High School Seniors and their families.
Family Worship Sunday
Sunday, May 25, 9 & 10:30AM worship
Nursery available for children under 3 years old Parents, enjoy this special time with your older children. Feel free to:
• Quietly explain the parts of the service to your children.
• Guide them to stand, sit, sing, or pray with the congregation.
Awaken Café
Open Sundays, 8AM—1PM
THERE’S MORE!
Check out Women’s Ministry information on page 14
Check out Community Group information on page 15
Memorial Day Service of Remembrance For Military Veterans
Monday, May 26, 8AM Sanctuary & Memorial Garden
Add a name Veterans Roll Call name by May 15. Email Tammy: tammyg@vpc.church
Join us for this opportunity to honor the service of those who have gone ahead of us.
SERVE
Villages in Partnership Water Walk
Sunday, May 4, 10:30AM
Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church
The Water Walk raises funds every year for clean water, health, and sanitation for our friends in 29 remote villages of Malawi, Africa. Funds raised go to partner villages for life-changing, sustainable development projects, impacting over 24,000 lives.
Meal Service for those experiencing Homelessness
Monday, May 12, 4:30-6:30PM
South Scottsdale Presbyterian Church/Community House
Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church
Join us to support and serve those less fortunate in our local community. We serve a meal and have fellowship time.
Vitalant Blood Drive
Sunday, May 18, 2025
8AM-12:30PM, Landes Center Register: donors.vitalant.org
Donate & be eligible to win a trip to the new Universal Epic Universe theme park in Orlando!
When you give blood with Vitalant, you have the potential to help hospital patients within your community and nationwide. Join VPC and help save lives at our Deacon-sponsored blood drive!
Yucatan Mission Trip with Accion Ministries
Open to High School & College Students, adults of all ages
May 31-June 7, 2025, Sinanche, Yucatan, Mexico
Cost: $950
Questions? Email Chris: chrisw@vpc.church
We will partner with a local congregation to finish the roof on their church, host VBS for children in the community and enjoy fellowship with our brothers and sisters in the village of Sinanche.
MAY
CLASSES
God’s Plan, Our Book: Intro to Your Bible
With Pastor Chris Woodard
Wednesday, May 7 &14, 6-7PM, B106
Bible speaks to us today, over thousands of years and across generations. This class acquaints you with major Biblical themes to discover how God’s Word is alive and active today. If you have never read the Bible or would like a deeper understanding of scripture is used, this class is for you.
Risen with Him: Experiencing Christ’s Resurrection Power With Pastor Tim Smith
Wednesday, May 7 & 14, 6-7PM, Chapel
The risen Christ promises, “Because I live, you will live, too.” This post-Easter series explores what it means to come alive as Easter People, experiencing the day-to-day reality of the risen Christ living His life in and through us.
CLASSES & EVENTS
Adult Pickleball Training Workshop & Game Play
Saturday, May 3, 9AM-Noon, Landes Center
Registration open to ages 18 & up: vpc.church/events
This paddle sport is for all ages and skill levels. The rules are simple and the game is easy, develops into quick, fast-paced, competitive games. Instructors will introduce you to basic paddle skills, scoring, and positioning. Equipment provided, wear comfortable clothing and tennis shoes.
Book Club for Men & Women
May 6, 10-11:30AM, Room C204
Facilitator: Judith Robins, az29hiker@msn.com
May’s book is Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger. Enjoy delicious cookies and pastries! New members always welcome.
Spiritual Formation With Kathy Oppenhuizen & Beth Allen
Wednesday, May 7 & 14, 6-7:15PM, Admin. Conference Room Questions? Email Kathy: kathyop1024@gmail.com or Beth: ballen4771@gmail.com
We will continue our study of the book Early I Will Seek You by Augustine. His writings will lead us into a deeper experience with God and deepen community.
NAMI Family-to-Family Class
Wednesday May 7 – June 25, 6-8:30PM, RSVP for location, free Pre-registration required: 602-244-8166 or admin@namivalleyofthesun.org
Questions? Contact Elizabeth Weiss: 713-203-5544 or esweiss1231@gmail.com
This class is for family, partners, and friends of adults living with a serious mental illness to understand and support their loved one while maintaining their own well-being. If you know someone struggling with mental illness, this course is for you.
WEEKLY EVENTS
Pickleball Drop-In Play
Every Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday (except May 26)
4:30-6:30PM, Landes Center
Join the VPC and neighborhood community for some fun! The rules are simple; the game is easy for players of all skill levels.
Men’s Breakfast/Coffee & Bible Study
1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7-8AM, Awaken Café
Join us for breakfast or coffee, followed by Bible Study in Room B106. All men are invited to join us - this is a great time to meet and connect with other men!
Men’s Adult Basketball
Thursdays, 6AM, Landes Center, free Mike Bitticks; michael.bitticks@gmail.com
Begin your day with some great fun and exercise! Showers and lockers available.
JUNE
WORSHIP
June 1: Summer Sunday School Starts
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
June 8
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
June 15: Father’s Day
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
SUNDAYS
Summer Sunday School
June 1-August 3, 9 & 10:30AM, Room C6
Kids 3 years old through entering 1st grade
Marie Bitticks: marieb@vpc.church
Kids are invited to join their parents at the beginning of worship, then go with their teachers to class. Worship packets will be available for older children who get to worship with their families.
Awaken Café
Open Sundays, 8AM—1PM
WEEKLY EVENTS
Pickleball Drop-In Play
Every Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday 4:30-6:30PM, Landes Center
Join the VPC and neighborhood community for some fun! The rules are simple; the game is easy for players of all skill levels.
Men’s Adult Basketball
Thursdays, 6AM, Landes Center, free Mike Bitticks; michael.bitticks@gmail.com
Begin your day with some great fun and exercise! Showers and lockers available.
June 22
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
June 29: VBS Celebration
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
SERVE
Yucatan Mission Trip with Accion Ministries
Open to High School & College Students, adults of all ages
May 31-June 7, 2025, Sinanche, Yucatan, Mexico
Cost: $950
Questions? Email Chris: chrisw@vpc.church
We will partner with a local congregation to finish the roof on their church, host VBS for children in the community and enjoy fellowship with our brothers and sisters in the village of Sinanche.
MentorKids USA Summer Camp
Mondays-Thursdays, June 2-27, 8AM-1PM (June 23-27: VPC VBS)
Paiute Promise Neighborhood, Scottsdale
Mitchell Oller: moller@mentorkidsusa.org
Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church
MentorKids USA needs your help again this summer! Extra volunteers are needed for Thursday field trips. This is a great opportunity to meet new friends and develop relationships with people from the Paiute Promise Neighborhood.
Meal Service for those experiencing Homelessness
Monday, June 9, 4:30-6:30PM
South Scottsdale Presbyterian Church/Community House
Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church
Join us to support and serve those less fortunate in our local community. We serve a meal and have fellowship time.
Middle School Mission Days
June 23-27, 12:30PM-3PM, Various locations
Cost: $100 (scholarships available)
Wes Cates: wesc@vpc.church
Middle school students, join us! We’ll spend the afternoons after VBS serving in our community, learning about those in need, and having fun.
Communion Prep
First Sunday of the month
Interested? Email Pastor David Turner: davidt@vpc.church or Tammy Gallagher: tammyg@vpc.church
The Deacon team in charge of Communion Prep needs assistance during the summer. Just a couple volunteer hours has a profound effect in worship. Interested or want to learn more? Let us know!
CLASSES & EVENTS JUNE
SUMMER HELP NEEDED!
Memorial Receptions
As needed
Interested? Email Pastor David Turner: davidt@vpc.church or Tammy Gallagher: tammyg@vpc.church
Post-memorial receptions are one of the most important ways we can care for grieving families. Your help with a memorial reception during the summer can bring comfort to those experiencing loss.
NAMI Family-to-Family Class
Wednesday May 7 – June 25, 6-8:30PM, RSVP for location, free Pre-registration required: 602-244-8166 or admin@namivalleyofthesun.org
Questions? Contact Elizabeth Weiss: 713-203-5544 or esweiss1231@gmail.com
This class is for family, partners, and friends of adults living with a serious mental illness to understand and support their loved one while maintaining their own well-being. If you know someone struggling with mental illness, this course is for you.
Men’s Breakfast/Coffee
& Bible Study
1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7-8AM, Awaken Café
Join us for breakfast or coffee, followed by Bible Study in Room B106. All men are invited to join us - this is a great time to meet and connect with other men!
Vacation Bible School: True North
June 23-27, 8:30AM-Noon, VPC Campus
For kids 3 years old—5th grade
Sign up today: vpc.church/vbs
Questions? Email Tina: tinag@vpc.church
Each day at True North VBS our campers will learn about finding their way in a world gone wild! Kids will trek through Wild Bible adventures, Glacier Games, Tundra Treats, Sticky Scripture, Imagination Station, and so much more! All of our activities will point them to Jesus, their unmovable, unshakeable friend forever!
The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition: VBS extended day option
June 23-26, Noon-3:30PM, Landes Center
For rising 1st—5th grade kids
Sign up through the VBS form: vpc.church/vbs
Registration deadline: May 25, Cost: $150
Questions? Email Jennifer: jenniferh@vpc.church
We are thrilled to offer an extended day music camp option after VBS! We welcome any kids 1st-5th grade, but those interested in a speaking role will have additional rehearsals. Check out the form and let us know if you have any questions!
JULY
WORSHIP
July 6: Single Service
9:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
July 13, 20, & 27
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
SUNDAYS
Summer Sunday School
June 1-August 3, 9 & 10:30AM, Room C6
Kids 3 years old through entering 1st grade
Marie Bitticks: marieb@vpc.church
Kids are invited to join their parents at the beginning of worship, then go with their teachers to class. Worship packets will be available for older children who get to worship with their families.
Family Worship Sunday
Sunday, July 6, 9:30AM worship
Nursery available for children under 3 years old Parents, enjoy this special time with your older children. Feel free to:
• Quietly explain the parts of the service to your children.
• Guide them to stand, sit, sing, or pray with the congregation.
Awaken Café
Open Sundays, 8AM—1PM
SERVE
Meal Service for those experiencing Homelessness
Monday, July 14, 4:30-6:30PM
South Scottsdale Presbyterian Church/Community House
Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church
Join us to support and serve those less fortunate in our local community. We serve a meal and have fellowship time.
Back to School Supply Drive
July 6—27: Bags available July 6
Please return bags to VPC by July 27
Pick up a bag and supply list at the church office or on patio after worship. Supplies will help Title 1 Schools in the Scottsdale Unified School District.
STUDENTS
Forest Home Middle & High School Camp
Friday, July 25-Wednesday, July 30
Forest Home Camp, Forest Falls, CA
Cost: $700 (scholarships available)
Questions? Email Wes: wesc@vpc.church
Students, you’ve been waiting all year for this! Join your friends for an experience of a lifetime. Space is very limited, register today!
WEEKLY EVENTS
Pickleball Drop-In Play
Every Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday 4:30-6:30PM, Landes Center
Join the VPC and neighborhood community for some fun! The rules are simple; the game is easy for players of all skill levels.
Men’s Breakfast/Coffee & Bible Study
1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7-8AM, Awaken Café
Join us for breakfast or coffee, followed by Bible Study in Room B106. All men are invited to join us - this is a great time to meet and connect with other men!
Men’s Adult Basketball
Thursdays, 6AM, Landes Center, free Mike Bitticks; michael.bitticks@gmail.com
Begin your day with some great fun and exercise! Showers and lockers available.
AUGUST
WORSHIP
August 3: Final Summer Sunday School
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
August 10: Back to School Blessing
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
August 17: Sunday school Kickoff
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
SUNDAYS
Summer Sunday School
June 1-August 3, 9 & 10:30AM, Room C6
Kids 3 years old through entering 1st grade
Marie Bitticks: marieb@vpc.church
Kids are invited to join their parents at the beginning of worship, then go with their teachers to class. Worship packets will be available for older children who get to worship with their families.
Back to School Blessing/ Childrens & Student Volunteer Commissioning*
Sunday, August 10, 9 & 10:30AM Worship
Schools are a mission field where our children can share and show the love of Christ with their friends and teachers. All kids are encouraged to bring their backpack to church this Sunday!
*This is also a Family Worship Sunday: no Sunday School, Nursery available for children under 3 years old
Sunday School Kickoff
Sunday, August 17, 9 & 10:30AM Worship
Questions? Email Tina: tinag@vpc.church Register online: vpc.church/children
Kids are invited to join their parents at the beginning of worship during the 9 and 10:30AM services, then go with their new teachers to class following the children’s moment. Please remember to register your kids!
Sunday Gathering for Middle & High School
Sundays starting August 17, 9:15 & 10:45AM, B108
Sunday Morning Gatherings are an intentional time of Biblical discipleship for students to get rooted and grow deeper into their faith. Here we share our lives with one another, read the Bible together, pray, and have a safe space to invest in community.
Awaken Café
Open Sundays, 8AM—1PM
August 24
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
August 31
9 & 10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
SERVE
Host Family Promise of Greater Phoenix
Sunday, August 3—August 10
Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church
Family Promise keeps families from becoming homeless in the midst of health or employment uncertainty. VPC partners with other churches to provide dinner, a place to sleep, and breakfast.
Meal Service for those experiencing Homelessness
Monday, August 11, 4:30-6:30PM
South Scottsdale Presbyterian Church/Community House
Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church
Join us to support and serve those less fortunate in our local community. We serve a meal and have fellowship time.
EVENTS
Middle School Pool Party
Wednesday, August 13, time & location TBD
Start the semester right! Details to follow.
High School Launch Party
Wednesday, August 20, time & location TBD
High school students assemble! It’s time to start another great semester with good food and good friends.
AUGUST
CLASSES
Bring Your Parents to Preschool Sunday School
Sunday, August 17, 9 & 10:30AM
Join us for a special experience with your child. Meet their Sunday School teachers, see their classroom, meet other families, and learn some tips to help your child(ren) grow in faith at home!
Middle & High School Parent Meeting
Sunday, August 17, 9 & 10:30AM, Room B108
Parents, we are your partners in ministry, come hear about what great things we have in store for the coming year!
Family Workshops: Tools-4-Takeoff
For parents of High School Seniors
Sunday, August 24, 10:30AM, Room B106
Get tips for talking to your student about their faith and their future, emphasizing making the most of this final high school year. This workshop preparation for the Senior Summit milestone, a special event at the end of their senior year.
Oasis Students*
Wednesdays starting August 27
Middle School
6-7:30PM, B108
Awaken Café will also be open as a homework room available for students and families to use after program is over.
High School
7:30-9PM, B108
Awaken Café will also be open as a homework room available for students and families to use before the program.
*Oasis Community Wednesdays for OasisKids!, Oasis Minis, and adult classes starts September 10.
COMING THIS FALL
Oasis Student Launch Party
Starting August 27
Middle School: 6-7:30PM
High School: 7:30-9PM, B108
Connect and dig deeper with other students. Awaken Café will also be open as a homework room available for students and families to use after program is over.
MOMS@VPC Fall Kick-off
Friday, September 5, 9-11AM, Landes Center
Mothering matters! We know moms need encouragement during these critical and formative years.
Oasis Community Wednesdays
Welcome back Carnival September 3
6-7:30PM, VPC Campus
Classes begin September 10
6-7:30PM, Food served starting at 5:15PM
With classes, Bible Studies, programs for kids, students, and adults, there’s something for everyone!
Women’s Bible Study Kickoff
Friday, September 12, 9-11:30AM, Room B106
Women of all ages and stages are invited to this great event!
Open Door Socials
Returning Fall 2025
Want to host?
Email Pastor David Turner: davidt@vpc.church
Connect with long-time and people new to VPC’s community in a relaxed atmosphere in a home. If you are interested in hosting, contact Pastor David!
CONNECT @VPC
vpc.church/women
BIBLE STUDY
Women’s Bible Study: Psalm 90
May 2 & 16, 9:30-11AM, Room C204
Join us each week as we dive into scripture. Come a little early for coffee, breakfast goodies, and some time to visit!
MOMS@VPC
That’s a Wrap: Year-End Celebration
Friday, May 9, 9-11AM, B106
Registration & Free childcare: vpc.church/moms Women, we’ve upgraded! Formerly MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), MOMS@VPC is a new program with a familiar vibe. Moms of all ages and stages are invited to create community and connection.
WOMEN’S CIRCLES
Moderator: Wandie Hulick 602-316-3372, wild4uofa@aol.com
Monthly Bible Study with Pastor David Joynt: Life Lessons from Psalms by Max Lucado
Wednesday, May 14, 9:15AM, Sanctuary
Bring the Bible to life in with intriguing questions, inspirational stories, and poignant reflections to take you deeper into God’s Word. Don’t just read these Psalms, pray them along with the saints who composed them.
Monthly Circle Meetings
Esther Circle
Wednesday, May 14, 10:15AM, Admin. Conference Room
Kathy Arner: 602-739-4291, kathy.arner@gmail.com
Edie Kelsall: 602-505-9045, winrose@aol.com
Lydia Circle
Wednesday, May 14, 10:15AM, Room B106
Sandra Gonzales: 602-616-0458, whiskchop@gmail.com
Debbi Courtright: 480-594-3079, debem214@gmail.com
Mary Circle
Wednesday, May 20, 10AM, Westminster Village
Jeanne Campo: 480-994-4416, rjcampo@cox.net
Sandra Sturgeon: 480-451-2382, sturgeons3060@gmail.com
MENTAL HEALTH
Mental Health 24-hour Crisis Line 602-222-9444
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health) Support Groups namivalleyofthesun.org/support-groups
NAMI Classes namivalleyofthesun.org/classes
Grace Alliance Support Groups mentalhealthgracealliance.org/grace-group-locations
988 LIFELINE
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or harming themselves, please call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988. Helpers at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline understand life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, their caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.
COMMUNITY GROUPS
CONNECT @VPC
vpc.church/communitygroups
COLLEGE AGE
Contact: Wes Cates, wesc@vpc.church
We are excited to come alongside college students (near or far) as you continue your faith journey. Wes is available for one-onone and group discipleship opportunities via Zoom or in-person meetings. Be on the lookout for opportunities to hang out!
Yucatan Mission Trip with Accion Ministries
Open to High School Students, College Students, & adults
May 31-June 7, Sinanche, Yucatan, Mexico
See more information on page 6.
YOUNG FAMILIES
Contact: Chris Woodard, chrisw@vpc.church
Welcome to families with young kids! We know that when you have small kids, they drive your schedule. That’s why we want this group to be a convenient place to connect.
KALEIDOSCOPE
Contact: Ed Glady, beglady@outlook.com
Kaleidoscope strives to be a Christian community that embraces and encourages each other as we follow Christ on the path He sets before us. After every Sunday we send an email that summarizes class, gives updates about other opportunities at VPC, gives space for prayers, and provides a gentle thought for the week.
Sunday Class: A Prayerful Study
From Prayer: Experiencing Awe & Intimacy with God
By Rev. Tim Keller
Sunday, April 27—May 18 (no class May 4) 8AM, Room B106
While talking to God should be easy, prayer is cited as one of the most challenging and least understood aspects of our faith. We will study what prayer is, how we pray, and what God accomplishes with and by our prayers. Our class will be a beginner’s guide to prayer for some or a refresher course for others, but it will be a meaningful and productive study for all.
May the Best Beverage Win!
Saturday, May 10, 6PM, Tom & Lou Ann Hillman’s home
RSVP to Ed Glady: beglady@outlook.com
Bring a bottle of your favorite fermented grape juice for a blind taste test by all-vote for the best beverage with a special prize for the winner. Non-fermented beverages are also welcome for competition in their own class. A great way to celebrate the year!
BOOMERS
Contact: Sarah Burnette sarahswiggins@gmail.com
Founded on the principles of Bible Study, Fellowship, and Service to others, if you are looking for friendship and connection with fellow believers, we think you will find it here. We would love for you to visit and see for yourself!
What About Doubts?
With Dr. Warren Pettitt, Associate Professor, Arizona Christian University
Sunday, May 4, 10:30-11:30AM, Room C204
How do I respond when others doubt God? Dr. Pettitt will share resources he has found to be helpful.
End-of-Season Brunch Potluck
Sunday, May 19, 10:30AM, Room C204
Bring your best dish and join us for a delicious end of the season!
VOYAGERS
Contact: Cheryl Shaff, cherylshaff@gmail.com
Active since the 1980’s, members are 60 years and up, some working and some retired. Married couples, singles, and visitors are welcome. We support each other and use our resources to assist local charities.
Voyagers will be on summer break until September. Look for upcoming events in the Fall Ministry Brochure, coming out in late August!