valley vine
Valley Presbyterian Church April 2018 Volume sixty-three, Number three Dear friends,
Much of what counts for renewal happens on the outside. Contracts are signed and players enter a new stage on their teams. Leases get extended so occupants can continue to reside in their apartments. Cityscapes change as old buildings are refurbished or knocked down to make way for new structures. All of this is exterior renewal. The NT tells us of a different kind of process. It is initially less visible. Through faith in Christ, you and I can be renewed from the inside. We can become, in him, new creations. Even though, on the outside, age is breaking down our bodies with the unstoppable forces of decay, something else is happening on the inside. “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though the outer person wastes away, the inner person is being made new day by day.” (2 Corinthians 4:16) We do not lose heart because we believe, and we experience the gift of new hearts—Easter Hearts. The Resurrection of Jesus, and the gift of his spirit initiated this process of internal recreation. One of the joys of life in the church is to see this reality in our older members. They laugh like children, they cry with an honest freedom, their eyes twinkle, and they embody the gifts of faith, hope, and love which never end. Our April sermon series looks at the Resurrection appearances of Jesus in John’s gospel where we can see the changes of heart that the Lord brought to Mary, Thomas, Peter, and to the gathered disciples. As we prepare to renew our campus and to celebrate the generous commitments of our members on May 6, it is exciting to consider the gift God wants to share with his children through us—hearts that do not falter and constrict with age, and souls that do not dim, but rather inner lives that deepen and grow and shine with the light of eternity. There is no external renewal that matches that—at least until Jesus returns to renew his creation. Yours faithfully,
Lenten Sermon Series 6947 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253-5342 Phone: 480-991-6424 Fax: 480-991-6427 Email: church@vpc.church Website: vpc.church
Who We Are: Are you called to lead?
God is at work at VPC, but we need your help to continue to be a place where Jesus Christ transforms lives. We need your help identifying leaders in our midst to help set the direction of the church in the coming years. Your All-Church Nominating Committee (ACNC) is eager to hear your nominations for: Elder, Deacon, and Foundation Trustee. Give us names by filling out Called to Lead cards in the Church office, email ACNC Chair Jim Gabler: jimgabler1@gmail.com, or submit online: vpc.church/lead.
Worship @ VPC
Service of Remembrance Sunday, April 15, 10:15AM, Memorial Garden Everyone is invited to this brief service after the 9AM service. We’ll take the opportunity to remember the lives, relationships, and experiences of loved ones who have gone before us.
VPC SUNDAY WORSHIP SCHEDULE 8AM 9AM 10:30AM 11:45AM 2
Chapel Sanctuary Landes Center Chapel
PREACHING SCHEDULE April 1 (Easter) April 8* April 15 April 22 April 29 *Communion
Pastor David Joynt Pastor Kelly Nieto Pastor David Joynt Chris Woodard Pastor David Joynt
Highlighted Events
church@vpc.church
Gloria
by
A ntonio V ivaldi
with music from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons & Handel’s The Cuckoo and the Nightingale
Presented by: Valley Presbyterian Church Chancel Choir & Orchestra Sunday, April 8, 4PM Valley Presbyterian Church Sanctuary, Free
White Elephant Rummage
S
A
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Friday, April 6, 7AM-4PM Saturday, April 7, 8AM-Noon Landes Center
2018 Women's Retreat Friday, April 20-Sunday, April 22, Residence Inn, Prescott, AZ Register today: vpc.church/women
Keep up to date on everything happening with VPC's A New Heart for the Valley capital campaign: vpc.church/anewheart Keep an eye out for new Phase One renderings, coming soon!
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Mission & Service
Chris Woodard, Mission Director: chrisw@vpc.church
Kids helping kids
ICM-Food and Clothing Bank receives Channel 12 "12 Who Care" Award
"We raised $94 for the orphans!" was the excited cry that greeted me at Mrs. Maxwell's 2nd grade class at Yavapai Elementary School, a Title One school. What a joy it was to see how thrilled those seven and eight year olds were to help learners in Malawi.
Each month a non-profit agency doing extraordinary work in our community is honored, encouraging others to volunteer to further their mission. Congratulations to ICM and all the dedicated volunteers serving the community. ICM was recently featured on Channel 12's "12 Who Care" segement, check out the video: vpc.church/icm
This was just one of the many stories that happened at this year's Scottsdale & Paradise Valley for Africa, through our many community partners, mission partners, businesses, school teams, and clubs. The event was amazing and all who came had a great time at the Africa experience, water walk, fun run and ride, and other activities. "I am going to be sore tomorrow, but it was worth it," said VPC memeber Ed McDougall as he completed the 10 mile fun run course as an individual. How great it is to have our community raise awareness and funds for the educational and hunger needs of our friends in Malawi! When our community comes together global change can happen.
Yucatan Mission Trip May 26-June 4, 2018, friendsofaccion.org We will be working with Friends of Accion, Inc. building a church and/or homes in the Yucatan Jungle as well as hosting a Vacation Bible School for the children of the village. If interested contact Chris.
Malawi Mission Trip July 9-24, 2018 Now is the time to starting thinking and praying about your possible involvement in this life-changing experience. Contact Chris with questions.
-Chris Woodard
Connect
Pastor Mike Nieto: miken@vpc.church Community Groups Information visit: vpc.church/community_groups
A New Life On Easter Sunday we celebrate the power of our risen Lord to triumph over the pain and sorrow of sin and even of death itself. His resurrection offers us the chance at new life and new restored relationships with God and with each other. God is doing new things here in our midst as well. Here at VPC we have a chance to welcome into our fellowship the following new members, Kelli Anderson, Virginia Barnes, Barbara and Edward Hancock, and Rebecca and Kevin Repp.
Do you want to grow deeper in relationship with Jesus while you connect with other Christians? Our small groups meet throughout the month to study God’s word.
As always, if there is anything we can do to serve you or if you would like a pastoral visit, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
Sundays, 9-10AM, Room 409 Bringing Heaven to Earth, April 8-May 20
Blessings, -Pastor Mike Nieto
20-30s: Chris Woodard, chrisw@vpc.church Wednesdays, 7PM, Youth Room Lunch after church, April 8 Dinner at Chris and Brianna's, April 19, 6:30PM
30-40s: Tina Gilbreath, tinag@vpc.church
Parenting the Love and Logic Way Wednesdays, April 4-May 9, 6:30-7:30PM, Fireside Room Register: vpc.church Cost: $40
40-50s: David Turner, davidt@vpc.church
50-60s: Sarah Burnette, sarahswiggins@gmail.com Sundays, 10:25-11:30AM, Fireside Room Empty nesters grow together in faith and fellowship.
60s-70s: Judith Robins, az29hiker@msn.com Phoenix Theatre Night, Godspell Thursday, April 26, 7:30PM Everyone is welcome. Tickets: Wandie Hulick, wild4uofa@aol.com
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2nd & 3rd Thursdays, 1-2:30PM, Crossing 104 Study, fellowship, and refreshments.
70s+: Wandie Hulick, wild4uofa@aol.com
Sundays, 10:30-11:30AM, Calvin Center April 12: Mexican Train & Brisket Dinner, 3-5PM, Fireside Room Lunch Bunch: April 19, 11:30AM, Camelback Golf Club
Children & Families
Tina Gilbreath, Family Ministry Director: tinag@vpc.church
Celebrate Spiritual Steps Do you have any special memories of church celebrations? Baptism of a child? Marriage? Membership? Communion? Confirmation? Scripture shows us the significance of celebrating the spiritual steps that occur in daily life. Throughout Israel's history, God designated celebrations, festivals, and days of faith to commemorate spiritual milestones. The example that God gave us is one that is worthy of repetition, even today. As children, youth, and adults travel on their faith journey, it's important to mark the milestones along the way and to thank God for his faithfulness. A few of the milestones we celebrate at VPC are baptism, the presentation of third grade Bibles, and 5th grade transition. Join us as we pray for our 5th graders who are beginning the transition to student ministries this month. -Tina Gilbreath Save the Date: Vacation Bible School (VBS) Shipwrecked-Rescued by Jesus June 25-29
Students
5th grade transition classes April 8-29, 10:30-11:30AM, Room 419 This series of four classes on the meaning of communion is designed for our fifth graders moving into Student Ministry. Fifth grade families should RSVP to Tina Gilbreath: tinag@vpc.church
5th Grade Transition Banquet April 29, 4:30-6PM, Chapel & Landes Patio This special worship service is for 5th graders and their families. Fifth grade students will lead this service, during which they will have the opportunity to celebrate communion. Leaders from Student Ministry will be there moving up over the summer.
Family Workshop-First grade families worship April 29 Nursery will be available for children two years old and under. Children three years old and older get to worship with their family and our whole church community. Parents remember this is a unique time to share praising Jesus with your kiddos! Plan ahead for this special morning, talk with your children in advance about expectations, bring a bag of quiet activities, and let Tina and Marie know if you have questions or need tips.
Travis Kingma: travisk@vpc.church Are you ready for a brand new adventure? April is upon us and we are getting ready to jump into a brand new season of discernment, learning, and mission in youth ministry.
March 5 marked my first day as the new Director of Student Ministries and I’m thrilled to begin partnering with parents, our volunteer team, and the youth committee leaders (Vision & Support Team) to build upon the already amazing things that are happening in our community. This is the season of celebrating Christ’s resurrection for our and the world’s salvation. He is making all things new, including us. May he continue to transform VPC to be an embodied reality where all generations are adopted and transformed. Please join me in praying God’s kingdom be advanced and that we listen for the Holy Spirit as we look to launch ahead!
Acknowledging our Students Are you or someone one you know graduating from high school, college, grad school, or trade school? VPC wants to acknowledge you for your accomplishment. To be included in our recognition, email Katrina, katrinac@vpc.church. Please include school and degree.
High School Mission Trip July 14-21, Denver, Colorado Incoming 9th-outgoing 12th Grade Cost: $350 (scholarships available) Jr. High School Mission Trip July 9-13, Phoenix, Arizona Incoming 6th-outgoing 8th Grade Cost: $150 (scholarships available)
-Travis Kingma
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Learn & Grow
Pastor Kelly Nieto: kellyn@vpc.church
Spiritual Rhythm When Mike and I were first married, we had the opportunity to travel to Greece. One day our bus drove up to the mountains. As we stepped out we looked out on a landscape of monasteries. The view was breathtaking, houses and churches of stone seem to teeter on sheer precipices. For many of these monasteries, the only way in and out was through a basket lowered to the ground and raised back up. These communities of men and women were communities of spiritual rhythm, focusing on work, prayer, worship, and service. After Easter, we have opportunities to grow in faith through the life and testimony of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and for parents to learn about how to raise their children with love, support, and boundaries. We also will be re-launching House of Prayer, giving every member of the congregation an opportunity to pray for each other and for the ministries of the church. Our prayer for each of you is that VPC may help you form a spiritual rhythm of your life as we journey together with our great Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. -Pastor Kelly Nieto
Encore University
eu@vpc.church
Encore University (EU) is a place of community, a place of encouragement, a place of comfort and welcome, a place to pursue knowledge, a place to study God’s word. EU is a confirmation that senior life is valued and continues even after retirement. EU truly is an “Adventure in Lifelong Learning.” It is a treasure with rich purpose for a special group of people, our seniors. Hearing students’ personal stories, watching them engage in class discussion, and seeing their friendships develop has been heartwarming. Instructors have given so much by sharing their knowledge and time. Volunteers have extended a friendly welcome to all and made it possible to touch so many lives. The Encore Board, with their steadfast and faithful support, have been a blessing to EU. There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens -Ecclesiastes 3. For me, Encore University has been a time of personal growth, creating, developing, facilitating, giving, and receiving. EU has been a plethora of blessings in my life for which I am so grateful. And now the time has come for me to step back and pass on the ministry to new leadership with Jim Gabler and Pastor Kelly Nieto. I pray for EU's continued success and its wonderful service to our seniors. I am grateful our Lord placed me in the midst of this opportunity and for His close walk with me along this journey.
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With Blessings and a Heart for Christ, -Becky Bennett, Director, Encore University
Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Study*
Wednesdays, April 4-May 9, 6:30-7:30PM Calvin Center, Free Registration & childcare: vpc.church/classes Facilitator: Dr. Grayson Carter Pastor, Theologian, Martyr. As Hitler and the Nazi party rose to power in Germany, Dietrich Bonhoeffer and several other German pastors bravely challenged the new regime. Pastor Bonhoeffer also wrote several theological works on what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ, ultimately giving his life for making the choice to dangerously live out these convictions.
Parenting the Love and Logic Way*
Wednesdays, April 4-May 9, 6–7:30PM Fireside Room, Cost: $40 for workbook Registration & childcare: vpc.church/classes Facilitator: Larry Kerby The ability to discipline children while developing their understanding of personal responsibility and self-control is a key element of successful parenting. Class will teach you how to help your children take ownership, make responsible choices, and see the logical consequences of their actions!
House of Prayer Re-Launch Sunday, May 20 If you already are a part of the House of Prayer, or if you would like to be a part of it, all you have to do is fill out the commitment form!
MOPS
Molly Livak: mollyl@vpc.church Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Fridays, April 6 & 20 9-11AM, Room 415/416 Spring time is in the air! We have two exciting meetings planned for April!
Instead of a meeting on April 6, we’ll be heading to McCormick Ranch Railroad Park! Join us for our big spring play date! On April 20, we’ll have everyone’s most favorite meeting, our freezer meal prep meeting! Leave with 3 meals to put in your freezer! -Molly Livak
Men’s Ministry
Chris Woodard, Men’s Ministry Director: chrisw@vpc.church
Men of faith Small groups for men are forming at VPC and we would like to invite you to be a part! Some of you have participated in small groups in the past and understand the power of sharing your walk in Christ and growing deeper in your faith. Small groups (usually around four guys) walk with other men of faith. Often there are other men that can share the same stories, successes and sometimes sorrows as you do. From Bible study, to reading books of faith, to sharing each other's real world challenges, a small group can be a powerful use of your time and a way to take responsibility as a disciple of Jesus. We are looking to connect any men looking for a small group experience. Regardless of your age, working or retired; new to VPC or a long-time member, you have a story and are welcome to share and be a part. There is likely a group already forming that would welcome you. For those of you experienced with small groups, please join us again. For those of you new to small groups, please contact me. -Chris Woodard
Women’s Ministry Be Transformed I have always wanted to be a successful multi-tasker, but I'm really only successful in accomplishing anything, small or big, by setting a timer and devoting my time fully to one particular task. The most important focus of our lives is to build our relationship with Jesus. It is easy to get distracted, to look around, to hear the call of our daily lives. Do you need a weekend away in a beautiful setting, comfy beds, and incredible company to learn more about Jesus and your relationship with Him? Come join us at the Women’s Retreat this year! Speaker Ele Parrott will share with us about how we are transformed by Christ and how we can help transform others through mission and mentoring. It will be a weekend of learning, fellowship, and rest. -Pastor Kelly Nieto
Spring White Elephant Rummage Sale
Friday, April 6, 7AM-4PM & Saturday, April 7, 8AM-Noon, Landes Center Kitchen Items ~ books ~ linens ~ home décor ~ jewelry ~ sporting goods ~ Clothing for men, women & children ~ Shoes ~ Toys, games, puzzles ~ and much more... Proceeds support missions in our community and around the world. Sponsored by Presbyterian Women.
Third Tuesday of the Month Breakfast April 17, 6:30AM, Landes Center RSVP by Sunday prior, vpc.church/men All men are invited to join together for breakfast at VPC. Gather at 6:30AM and breakfast will begin at 6:45AM. We will hear testimonies from each other and be focus in on our topic for the month.
Habitat for Humanity Build Day Saturday, April 7 Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. VPC is partnering with other churches in the East Valley to build a home for one family in need. Contact Chris for more information.
Men’s Adult Basketball Thursdays, 6:30-7:30AM Landes Center, year round, no fee Mike Bitticks, michael.bitticks@gmail.com Looking for a way to begin your day with some great fun and exercise? Then our morning Men’s Basketball program is for you. Join us for a quick game before you head off to work. Showers and lockers available.
Kelly Nieto, Pastor: kellyn@vpc.church Women's Retreat 2018: Be Transformed
Friday, April 20-Sunday, April 22 Residence Inn by Marriott, Prescott, AZ Cost $185 Speaker: Ele Parrott Transforming Together by Ele Parrott presents the model for genuine spiritual mentoring through the power and work of Christ in the lives of women faithfully pouring into one another.
Women’s Bible Study*
Fridays, 9-10:30AM, April 13 & 27, May 11 Room 415-416, Free, Registration: vpc.church/women *Childcare: nursery@vpc.church, Facilitator: Kelly Nieto For women of all ages to explore God’s Word in a small group setting. We will be studying “The Armor of God,” looking at why we need spiritual armor in a spiritually dangerous world, and how to understand each piece of what it means to “put on the full armor of God" (Ephesians).
Presbyterian Women (PW) Circles
Tuesday, April 10 Mary: 9:30AM, Westminster Village Saguaro Room Wednesday, April 11 Esther: 10AM, Pat Ciccone's home, 480-948-7608 Lydia: 9:30AM, Calvin Center Sarah: Noon, Room 409
PW Luncheon and Speaker: God's Country, Israel
April 25, 11:30AM, Landes Center, Cost: $10 RSVP: 480-991-6424 by April 20 Pastor Kelly Nieto will talk about her recent trip to Israel.
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Care & Support
Pastor David Turner: davidt@vpc.church
Quilt of Love Tangible expressions of love can often last a lifetime. I was fortunate to share nine years in ministry as a pastor at Rancho Bernardo Community Presbyterian. They allowed me to dream, to fail, and to grow as a pastor. As God led me to a new adventure in ministry we shared words of gratitude and told funny stories, but the greatest gift was a quilt given to me. It was carefully designed with pictures of the church sewn into the fabric. As beautiful as this was, the part of the quilt that moved me to tears were the tied prayer knots that symbolized that the congregation had prayed for me. When we celebrate the baptism of a child, we also present a prayer quilt to the child as a reminder that they are loved and prayed for. While we enjoy the symbolism of this gift and how moving this expression of love is, it is only possible through the dedication of those in our church who share in a love for quilting. If you’d like to make a difference in the lives of our children and their families and also enjoy quilting, please contact me and I’d love to get you involved in this amazing ministry. -Pastor David Turner
Mental Health
Elizabeth Weiss: esweiss@gmail.com
3rd Annual Behavioral Health Initiative Conference Thursday, May 3, 7:30AM-3:30PM St. Patrick Catholic Community, Scottsdale Light lunch provided, Free Registration information email Sandy Meyers: smeyers@stpatcc.org
Please join us for a wonderful day of networking, resource fair, sessions on a variety of behavioral health topics. Participants can earn Continuing Education Units (CEU). Speaker Highlights:
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Rev. Ron Friesen, Chaplaincy for the Homeless and St. Luke's Behavioral Health Center The Intersection of Homelessness & Mental Illness in 2018 Participants will learn how to effectively advocate for the housing needs of the mentally ill. Ron Friesen is a pastor and mental health counselor in our community. Dr. Shelly Reed, PsyD, S-PSB, Clinical Psychologist at Psychological Counseling Services Mental Health and the Church This presentation will break the silence about mental health concerns in the church. Dr. Reed will share the clinical and spiritual approaches to mental health. Dr. Shelly Reed is a church planter and licensed clinical psychologist who has a passion for addressing mental health concerns through a spiritual framework.
At-Home Visitation Communion
Sunday, April 8, 12:15-3:30PM Tammy Milne: tammym@vpc.church We will be serving communion to our At-Home friends. If you would like to volunteer to serve on this rewarding ministry, please contact Tammy.
Grief Support
Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30PM, Chapel Parlor, Free Facilitator: Shirley Polk, Registration: vpc.church/grief Navigating the grieving process. This discussion-based class is designed to give you tools to recover and to hope again.
Grief Share
Wednesdays through May 23, 1-2:50PM Chapel Parlor, Free, Facilitator: Karen Annis Registration: vpc.church/grief We believe recovery doesn't come from knowledge, but from Christian hope, personal support and emotional release.
Pet Pause Therapy Dog Ministry Do you love your four footed friend and believe that your dog’s undying love might be able to lift the spirits of someone else in need? Medical Science has determined that with pet therapy, patients show lowered blood pressure, reduced anxiety, decreased feelings of isolation, lifted spirits, lessened depression With dementia patients, it allows them to interact with a dog and vis-versa in ways that many of us can’t. If you are interested in learning more about participating in Pet Pause, please email David Turner.
Remembrances Our church family extends its Christian sympathy to the family and friends of Dorothy Blades, Maurice Coburn, Jane Corley, Karl Forsgren, Fred Hassig, Nathaniel Hathaway, James Jackson, Jene Jacoby, George & Kathleen Kochheiser, John Larsen, Betty Lou Meeks, Helen "Todd" Orme, Helen Rogers, Gus Schmitt, Martha Squire, Marilyn Wakefield, and Jane White. Support Groups: vpc.church/mentalhealth Living Grace Support Group
2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 6-8PM, Oasis Community Church Information: jilliannhogan@gmail.com or 480-234-7073
Family Support website:
nami.org/Find-Support/Living-with-a-Mental-Health-Condition
Mental Health 24-hour crisis line: 602-222-9444 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 AZ Teen Lifeline: 602-248-8336, teenlifeline.org
Music
Jennifer Hamm, Minister of Music: jenniferh@vpc.church Spring is here!
In Phoenix, it’s a little hard to tell, but the weather is turning milder and days are getting longer. Springtime is the time I clean out my closets, do deep cleaning, and enjoy the outdoors while I can.
For me, it is also a time of rejuvenation and even trying something new! Maybe this is why I am inspired to listen to baroque music in the spring. The baroque was a period of musical experimentation and innovation. New forms were invented, including the concerto and sinfonia. Many composers wrote music inspired by spring. You have a chance to listen to some of that music on Sunday, April 8 at 4PM in the Sanctuary. The first half of the program will feature our fabulous orchestra of mainly Phoenix Symphony members and our stellar organist, Julia Tucker. You will enjoy Concerto No. 1 in E Major “Spring” from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. The orchestra will accompany Julia on Concerto in F No. 13 “The Cuckoo and the Nightingale.” Then, the choir will join Julia, the orchestra and our fine soloists in singing Vivaldi’s Gloria. - Jennifer Hamm
Valley Day School
Gloria by Vivaldi VPC Chancel Choir and professional orchestra Sunday, April 8, 4PM, Sanctuary
Written in 1715, the wonderfully sunny nature of the Gloria is characteristic of all of Vivaldi’s music, giving it an immediate and universal appeal. We are delighted to be joined by members of the Phoenix Symphony. Concert is sponsored by Valley Presbyterian Foundation.
Valley Ringers Handbell Choir Rehearsal Wednesdays, 5:30-6:15PM, Handbell Room Julia Tucker, Director
Chancel Choir Rehearsal Wednesdays, 7:30PM, Choir Room 7:30-8:30PM, Choir Room
Gloria
by
A ntonio V ivaldi
with music from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons & Handel’s The Cuckoo and the Nightingale
Sunday, April 8 4PM, Sanctuary
Meghan Gottfredson, Day School Director: meghang@vpc.church
Valley Day School Chapel Worship Preschool Chapel, it’s one of the best parts of our week. Parents frequently catch me in the hallways or pop into my office to share a story they’ve heard from their preschooler about Chapel time. Often tears fill their eyes as they recount these moments. I receive videos of kids singing Chapel songs at home, in the quiet of their room when they think no one else is listening. Not always knowing what day of the week it is, a student will greet me each morning and ask, “Is this a Chapel day?”
Valley Day School is fully enrolled for the 2018-2019 schoolyear! We do keep a waitlist. Contact Meghan to schedule a tour.
Every week we have the opportunity to lead two, three, four, and five year olds in worship. We sing and dance - it’s a joyful noise! Mrs. Susie shares a short message, and God meets us right there beneath that beautiful stained glass. Our time together is 12 minutes in length from start to finish. Just 12 minutes. It doesn't sound like much, but it’s truly powerful. What a precious gift to get to share Christ with these little ones each week, and we are humbled by the fact that this is the job we get to do. -Meghan Gottfredson
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Foundation
Charlee Turner, Foundation Administrator: charleet@vpc.church Thank you!
VPC, we are so grateful for the love and support you’ve shown to your fellow members and to those outside our church community! Last month, many of you attended our Annual Foundation Dinner to raise funds to offset childcare expenses for families enrolled in the Family Promise of Greater Phoenix and to raise funds that will directly impact the growth of our church. We will have specific numbers to share with you soon. We could not have done it without you!
Scholarship Opportunity! Deadline May 1 Apply online: vpc.church/foundation Please remember the Foundation is now accepting applications for our Erickson, Kurz, and Simmons Scholarships. Last year, 12 scholars were granted funds. On average, applicants receive $1,000 toward tuition and/or book fees. Turn your applications in today!
We would also like to take a moment to recognize our wonderful Foundation Dinner committee volunteers! Without these shining souls, the dinner would not be possible. In no particular order … Amy Greer, Lynda Coffelt, Beverly Cooper, Candy Unruh, Matthew Voris, Monica Ek, Tiffany Westlie Pondelik, Mickey Rufenacht, Linda May Bucher, Jane Russell, Penne McKee, Kathy Arner, John Boots Dunlap, and Mary Artigue. -Charlee Turner
2018 FOUNDATION DINNER
A New Heart for the Valley Capital Campaign Just three weeks into our A New Heart for the Valley series, two families said, “Can we go ahead and pledge to the campaign? We are ready.” Just a few days later, 100% of the Session committed to financially supporting the A New Heart for the Valley capital campaign with a gift over and above their faith giving commitments! I can sense a gathering momentum of excitement and curious enthusiasm for what our campus and community will be when Phase One is implemented. Although our capital campaign focuses on renovations and updates to some of our oldest buildings, a renewed campus alone will not create vibrant worship, a feeling of welcome, or a place of intergenerational connection. Rather, the effort to update our campus reflects our desire to express our own internal vibrancy for Christ and His church. Hopefully your own heart has been refreshed and made new through the sermon series and devotionals. I know mine has. On Sunday, May 6 we will collect and celebrate pledges for A New Heart for the Valley. You will soon receive a letter with more details about giving and a pledge form. During this season of Eastertide please pray and seek God’s direction for your own giving to this campaign.
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-Keith Kerber
Keith Kerber: keithk@vpc.church
The heart of Valley Presbyterian Church is its vibrant worship. Phase One renovates the Sanctuary to become an ideal place for every voice to be heard, whether preaching or singing. It will accommodate the majestic sounds of organ, the classical notes of orchestral music, and the energetic power of guitars and drums. With enhanced video projection surrounding the worship space, worship services will integrate words and images in new ways.
The introduction of shade-giving trees, lush landscaping, grass for activities, comfortable seating, tables, and indoor-outdoor circulation will create a space where relationships will flourish and generations come together.
VPC Leadership News From Session From the March 27 Session meeting: -VPC Session, as Trustee of the Valley Presbyterian Foundation, voted to take a $1,000,000 disbursement from the Foundation’s unrestricted funds for the A New Heart for the Valley Capital Campaign. Funds will be earmarked for three objectives in rank order: Renovation of Opus 1554 Pipe Organ, acquisition and installation of a state-of-the-art acoustic system in the Sanctuary, and the remodel of the Sanctuary south seating into the Choir Room. -Session voted to hire an outside attorney to review the contract for Phase One of the Master Plan. Upon receiving the attorney’s evaluation, the Session moved to adopt the contract with Jones Studio for Phase One; this includes the remodel of the Sanctuary and classrooms. -Becky Bennett, the leader of and inspiration behind Encore University since its inception, will retire from her role as of April 13, 2018. Session accepted her resignation with regret and great appreciation for all her hard work. -Session approved the reorganization of Children and Student Ministry: Director of Family Ministry (Tina Gilbreath), Director of Student Ministry and Leader of Contemporary Service (Travis Kingma), Student Ministry Assistant Director (Not yet filled), Children’s Ministry Coordinator (Marie Bitticks) and Children’s Ministry Assistant (Susie Huseth who resigned from Session). -Russ Henzel was elected VPC's nominee for the Senior Service Award of the Presbytery of the Grand Canyon. -Kathy Oppenhuizen has been appointed Parish Associate for Discipleship and Spiritual Growth. -Keith Kerber will manage the Capital Campaign through May, 2018. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me at 480-368-6567.
-Karen Meyer, Clerk of Session
Leader Spotlight Marge Sellers Congregational Care and Fellowship Committee I have been a member of Valley Presbyterian Church since 1965. In that time I have served as deacon for different terms (3 years each term), been a Stephen Minister for the last four years. I have also served on the Presbyterian Women Board for the past 12 years (four years as secretary, four years as program chairman, and four years as Bible Study coordinator).
Finances & Operations Our custodians get their steps in! Over the span of a typical day at VPC, our custodians easily log between six and ten miles! They are the first ones we call if we need a room unlocked, a computer set up, tables and chairs moved, beverages poured, and a hundred other daily requests. That's on top of Sunday worship services, Wednesday classes, Valley Day School, memorial services, and receptions. Add to all that the cleaning, landscaping, and facility maintenance of the entire campus!
Church office closed Monday, April 2 in observance of Easter holiday.
Kris Bahr: krisb@vpc.church
John, Will and Linda, along with Gerry on a part-time basis and Tim joining us in April, feel blessed by and are happy to serve our staff and congregation. I have a deep appreciation of all the work they do. Thanks, also, to many of you who pitch in, and to our regular volunteers! -Kris Bahr
VPC finances year-to-date as of February 28, 2018 Income
Actual $
Budget $
Variance $
Faith Giving Other Income Total Income
389,745 50,825 440,570
385,000 61,605 446,605
4,745 -10,780 -6,035
Pastoral Ministry Admin & Facility Mission, Outreach, Cong. Care Christian Education Encore Worship & Music Total Expense
77,977 170,471 18,903 31,301 11,506 30,365 340,523
77,983 182,049 23,500 37,777 13,133 33,236 367,678
6 11,578 4,597 6,476 1,627 2,871 27,155
100,047
78,927
21,120
Expense
Net Income less Expense
11