April 2020 Valley Vine

the

Valley Vine

HOW WE MOVE FORWARD TOGETHER

IN THIS ISSUE:

A new confidence in God Senior Pastor David Joynt

How to move forward VPC Staff

Lead our families spiritually Tina Gilbreath

Care & Support

VPC Congregational Committee

Ways to give

VPC Stewardship Committee

Chapel stained glass windows Finance & Operations Committee

News from Session

Karen Gill Meyer, Clerk of Session

A prayer for working from home Karley (Gosselin) Wilke-Nadler

April 2020

Volume sixty-five, Number three

Valley Presbyterian Church

Senior Pastor

DAVID JOYNT Romans 5:1-5 “Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of God. And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.”

A lot has changed since I last penned a Valley Vine! Church services and gatherings have gone virtual. A pandemic we watched in other parts of the world has become our own national obsession, shaking markets, shifting political primaries, closing schools, and altering the way we approach connection and community. It is difficult not to become fearful and anxious watching infection rates rise along with death tolls.

Now is the time for a bolder prayer and a new confidence in God. The apostle Paul believed he and his fellow followers in Rome had been given an unshakeable peace with God, a grace to stand upon and a hope worth boasting about. That meant that suffering, which is evil and life destroying in itself, can and will have the opposite effect in our lives. In us, as in Paul, it can make our characters deeper and our faith capacity stronger. Suffering, he says, produces endurance, and endurance character, and character hope, and hope opens our hearts to the warm and winning presence of God’s love.

This was not just theological theory for Paul. He lived in a world with no answers to infectious diseases, in a subject nation, in an era with low life expectancy. By becoming an evangelist for Christ, he had suffered imprisonments and torture. Five times he was lashed, three times beaten with rods, once stoned. He went through three shipwrecks. He was beleaguered by bandits, persecuted by Jewish opponents, harried by Gentiles. On road and river in the wilderness and on the sea, he was threatened and frightened. Frequently sleepless, he knew hunger and thirst and homelessness. (See 2 Corinthians 11:23-28). To top it all off, he worried over his churches, and I can identify with that!

Paul had come to believe that when we are weak, if we are willing, God’s power can be displayed in us, even more powerfully then when we are strong and life is easy. There will be a day when COVID-19 is more memory than imminent threat, a day when social interaction and education and business return to more normal terms. We should all pray that may be soon and that social solidarity will hasten it. But why not be bolder and ask that God use this harder moment to grow our characters, broaden our hope and increase our capacity to know and share his love?

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Lord, eventually our Sanctuary will open and we will return. We pray for the safety of those who are working on it and for their success. But also we pray that when we return we will be able to offer a deeper praise and a more profound thanksgiving. May our community become more generous, more creative, more compassionate. Tune up our wattage and make us shine. We ask in the name of Jesus, our true and only light. Amen.

Blessings dear friends,

How we

MOVE FORWARD TOGETHER Together we are learning to navigate new and uncertain times. We have entered a period where routines are disrupted and much of our life can feel unbalanced. VPC wants to partner with you to stay connected to your faith community and to each other, and to provide a sense of normalcy where little seems normal anymore. When it feels like life has limited your choices and options, here are four ways that we can choose to remain part of a family of faith.

Choose to be healthy: The health of our community, especially those most vulnerable to the Coronavirus, is our first priority. Please remember to wash your hands, practice physical distancing, don't go to work if you are sick, and help #flattenthecurve.

Choose to praise: VPC is still gathering to worship every Sunday! The forms and timing may feel different, but God is still glorified. Each Sunday at 9:30AM, we will have a worship experience on the VPC website and on Facebook. Look for an email Sundays by 9AM with instructions.

Choose to connect: Many of the things we did in person are still happening, but in new and different ways. Family Ministry, Student Ministry, and Congregational Care are just a few examples of areas that are sending out resources and staying connected. VPC's website has resources for all ages and stages and is updating frequently.

Keep in touch with VPC: eVine (weekly email): vpc.church/evine Facebook: facebook.com/valleypresbyterian Instagram: 'vpc.church' Choose to support: VPC still needs your financial and prayer support in these difficult times. God is at work at VPC, and the vital ministries and mission partners are still serving our community and world. If you have not done so, we invite you to set up online giving. It's safe and secure, and you can also set up reoccurring payments. If you have questions or need assistance walking through the initial set-up, call Kris Bahr: 480-991-6424 ext. 112.

We may be physically separated from each other, but we know that we will make it through this season together. VPC is a place where you can Belong because VPC can be a part of each of your homes and lives.

Blessings and safety to you from the VPC staff

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LEAD OUR FAMILIES SPIRITUALLY

By Tina Gilbreath Director Family Ministry

Tina: tinag@vpc.church

WOW! I doubt any of us pictured Spring 2020 quite like this. If you are like me and the other families I’ve been talking to—emotions, conflict, concerns, questions, and frustrations have been all over the place. With schools, businesses and workplaces closing, change seems to be the order of each new day. Leading our families spiritually is a challenge in the best of circumstances, so how do we lead our families spiritually in times like these?

The Bible tells us without question in Deuteronomy 6 that we are charged with passing our faith on to our children…and it doesn’t say anything about stopping in times of crisis or if we can’t go to church. So what does that look like in our new normal?

I pulled together some information and guidance for us all.

Pray: These are very important times to turn to God and experience God's love and freedom. And, it's a great opportunity to model our faith and trust in God to our children. As Christians nothing can take our peace away, unless we let it—unless we try to cope with it outside of the faith, hope and love God desires to offer us. When we pray it is an active way of trusting God and saying "My life is in your hands." In Him lies the source of our greatest strength. So pray for your kids and with your kids!

Be honest: Kids need facts (maybe not all but facts). It’s important to remain calm as you share details. The amount and number of details will vary depending upon your child’s maturity and age. Explain that you’re trying to be cautious and wise, not acting out of fear. This a link to a great explanation of COVID19 for children with a comic strip version and audio version, npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda.

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Keep same routine: Change is hard for many kids and adults especially in challenging times. The more you can minimize changes, the better. Children tend to feel more secure when they know what is coming in their daily schedules. With school canceled this is obviously much harder.

But try to block out time during the day for academics, faith and a little extra family fun. It looks like kids will be experiencing a lot more of life at home and in sheltered environments over the next several weeks. I’ve included a list of apps with activies for both school and faith.

Academic oriented websites/apps Scholastic ‘Learn From Home’ websites: • highlightskids.com • seussville.com • kids.nationalgeographic.com • pbs.org Faith based apps Bible App for Kids Made for ages 6-8 Children’s Bible Made for ages 9-11 My First Bible Games Made for ages 5 and under Children’s Bible Games made for ages 9-11 Super book for ages 9-11 Jesus Loves Me Made for ages 5 and under Be kind: Some say the opposite of fear isn’t faith—it’s love, “and so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love,” and there is no fear in love. (1 John 4:16-18) In times of crisis, people feel a strong desire to feel cared for and loved. How do we show love and care when we are be asked to practice social distance? For starters, be extra kind to those around you, send someone a nice text just because, or GASP call someone!

You are all such creative people send us some of your ideas to tinag@vpc.church.

Remember you are part of a community: The church doesn’t only exist between the walls of the building. Check in with your friends and neighbors. The Children’s Ministry team will be checking in with our community regularly, and looking at creative ways to stay in touch and send home activities to help you and your family stay connected to Christ and your faith family.

Trust God is with you: Isaiah 41:10 says “So Do Not Fear, For I Am With You; Do Not Be Dismayed, For I Am Your God. I Will Strengthen You And Help You; I Will Uphold You With My Righteous Right Hand.”

Throughout the bible we are encouraged not to fear, but to trust God. This season is an opportunity for you to model actively trusting God even when we are fearful. One way to do that is to share perspective. Talk to some grandparents or older friends and they tell you they have survived multiple calamities and that this is just one more. Help your family express gratitude for what is going well.

But, be patient and don’t dismiss their fears and concerns. The bible tells us not to fear so much because it is a natural part of the human condition.

Please continue to watch your inbox for messages from our team. And, don’t hesitate to reach out with any special concerns of requests.

Blessings and peace in Christ to you all!

The Children’s Ministry Team

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C are &

SUPPORT

What are your needs in times of uncertainty? VPC is here to help!

Although the current pandemic prevents us from being together on our campus, VPC is committed to engaging with our community so that we may continue to support and encourage one another. We have 18 elders, 36 deacons, 37 Stephen Ministers, and 18 Lay Hospital Chaplains who are standing by to assist our community and support the congregation in this extraordinary time. In fact, these dedicated individuals have already helped the church connect with nearly 900 households that are affiliated with VPC! During this time people may have more feelings of loneliness or isolation, so it is important that we remember that we are the church! If someone you know needs support, step up and give them a call or send them a note, and remember to encourage them to participate in worship online. If there is an emergency need, such as someone struggling with depression, call the main church number, 480-991-6424, and follow the prompts to leave a message for the Pastor on call; they will return the call as soon as possible. Emails can also be sent directly to the church staff; their contact information can be found at vpc.church/welcome/our-staff/ (staff email addresses are first name, first initial of last name@vpc.church, i.e. davidj@vpc.church). Additional support is also available from VPC’s Faith Friends (Stephen Ministry). These dedicated men and women can provide confidential emotional support that is grounded in the Christian Faith. To arrange a conversation, contact Tammy Milne at 480-991-6424, ext. 163 or email her at tammym@vpc.church.

Need Prayer? VPC’s Prayer Team is made up of people who are praying diligently and specifically for needs both within and outside the church, and they are available to pray for you.

If you have a prayer request, please contact Tammy Milne (see above). If you would like to join VPC’s prayer team, please contact Robbie Peterson at rjpeterson7277@gmail.com.

Although our Mental Health Ministry has had to pause face-to-face meetings, some other mental health resources are: • Mental Health 24-hour crisis line: 602-222-9444 • Non-Crisis “Warmline”: 602-347-1100 • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) • AZ Teen Lifeline: 602-248-8336 Our Deacons are standing by to help with other needs. For help in any of the following areas, please contact Tammy Milne (see above).

• Can’t get to the store? We can do emergency shopping for groceries or health-care needs • Help with a meal? Our Tasty Spoon ministry can assist • Need emergency financial assistance? The Deacon Fund may be able to help with one-time emergency assistance for utilities or groceries.

Blessings, VPC Congregational Care

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Ways to

GIVE

VPC recognizes that we are living in unprecedented times. Each day we are writing a new template for what it means to be the church without being able to meet on campus. We also know that we are far closer to the beginning of this augmented way of living than we are to the end.

Being a part of a faith community is vital during times of unease and isolation. That’s why VPC is committed to continuing God’s work with our faith family, our local community, and our mission partners around the globe. Circumstances change, but the needs of others do not.

We cannot do this without your help. We are asking you to continue your support of VPC throughout this time as the Pastors and staff work to minister, worship, and educate those who God has brought into VPC’s orbit. There are several ways you can financially support VPC: Give online: Here you can give securely and set up automatic or one-time payments. Using any of these options will require you to create or sign in to an Easy Tithe account.

Text-to-give: Simply text 480-372-8548 and you will be prompted to register for an Easy Tithe account (or log in to an existing account).

Easy Tithe app: Available for Android & iOS , simply install the app, search for Valley Presbyterian Church the first time you log in, and register for an Easy Tithe account (or log in to an existing account).

Mail in a check: Staff office hours are in flux, but we still get all the mail sent to VPC. Feel free to mail a check: 6947 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253 If you have any questions or issues creating an account, call or email Kris Bahr: 480-991-6424 ext. 112 or krisb@vpc.church.

If you are unable to continue your support of VPC at this time, we ask for your prayers as we navigate the days ahead. Thank you for being a part of what God is doing at VPC! Blessings, VPC Stewardship Committee

Other simple ways to

SUPPORT VPC Link your VIP card to VPC to support our ministry when you shop!

Visit the website: fryscommunityrewards.com, follow a few easy instructions, and you can link your VIP card to Valley Presbyterian Church (organization number CB529).

A portion of your purchase will go directly to support God's work at VPC!

Hundreds of people are dedicatedly and faithfully supporting God's work at VPC, and we are thankful for your generosity!

Here are a a couple convenient methods to contribute to the great ministries at VPC. When you shop Amazon, you can support VPC­—and it won't cost you a thing!

AmazonSmile designates a portion of their purchase total as a donation to a charitable organization. If you shop with Amazon, please consider logging into your account through smile.amazon.com and select "Valley Presbyterian Church" before you shop. It's an easy and free way to support our ministry!

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Finances &

OPERATIONS

Chapel Stained Glass Windows If you have been in the Chapel recently, either for a Sunday service, attended a class or a memorial service, you may have noticed daylight coming through one of the Chapel stained glass window panes.

Earlier in the year, a large section of the faceted stained glass started to pull away from the window on one of the northwest panes. Upon inspection by one of the experts from Willet Hauser, he discovered that not only was there significant damage to this pane, but there were also four other panes starting to develop significant cracks. The remaining panes were inspected, and all look to be in good shape, with no cracks detected.

In the summer of 2017, two other panes suffered damage from the monsoon. In addition to having the panes repaired, VPC invested a considerable sum to have Associated Crafts/Willet Hauser install a Klear-Flo protective coating around the entire outside of the windows. The Klear-Flo offers protection from wind and rain.

Even though this important step was taken to protect the windows, some of the panes on the northwest and west sides had already taken the brunt of the brutal afternoon sun. After 40 years of exposure, some of the faceted pieces began to turn brittle and cracks started to develop. Initially, the possibility of repair instead of rebuild was considered, but upon further analysis, there would be no guarantee that the repair would last for any length of time.

We have contracted with Associated Crafts/Willet Hauser to repair the five affected panels, at a cost of almost $30,000. The panels are scheduled to be removed by the end of the May, at which time they will be shipped to the main factory in Winona, MN to be repaired. At this time it is uncertain how long that process will take, but our request has been expedited.

These “Light of the Universe” windows, designed by Robert and Louise McCall, are truly a treasure to our church and the community. We take seriously the commitment to care for and preserve them.

Questions – contact Kris Bahr at krisb@vpc.church

Finance & Operations Committee VPC finances year-to-date as of February 29, 2020 Income

Actual $

Variance $

Faith Giving Other Income Total Income

399,400 19,700 419,100

400,000 17,400 417,400

-600 2,300 1,700

Pastoral Ministry Admin & Facility *Mission, Outreach, Cong. Care Christian Education Worship & Music Total Expense

75,700 169,600 11,600 52,200 33,700 342,800

76,300 171,000 12,600 58,900 34,600 353,400

600 1,400 1,000 6,700 900 10,600

76,300

64,000

12,300

Expense

Net Income less Expense

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Budget $

*In addition, $61,700 mission support to MentorKids, Family Promise, Ministry of Hope and Presbyterian Disaster Assistance provided upon repurposing of VPF Kurz Scholarship Fund.

News from

SESSION

Your Session met virtually Tuesday, March 31. It was decided services would continue to be delivered digitally through April.

There was discussion on ways to improve the virtual service.

Karen Meyer Clerk of Session 480-368-6567

The first quarter finances were on budget. Some expenses will be reduced in the near term due to the cancellation of events on campus.

However, we still have to cover the budget costs including staff and maintenance.

The Session will gather virtually every two weeks during these trying times.

Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns at 480-368-6567.

A prayer for

Blessings, Karen Gill Meyer, Clerk of Session

WORKING FROM HOME Almighty God, Giver of Work and Rest, I awake, and I am with you.

My commute is a trudge from bed to desk, a stepping over toys and garments, feet that feel like miles.

Ready my body to face unfamiliar tasks in this familiar place.

My eyes are prone to wander alone.

My ears are prone to hear my flesh over your Spirit.

My lips are prone to curse and lash.

My fingers and back are prone to cramp and complain.

My nose is prone to forget that every breath comes from you.

Let my eyes keep watch with you with care.

Let my ears hear the birds raise their carols to you.

Let my lips be patient on conference calls and voicemails.

Let my fingers and back find relaxation under tension.

Let my nose relish the home-brewed tea and remember.

Oh, omnipotent and omnipresent Carpenter, you who fashioned the lumber of the land, you who breathed life into us from the dust, you who are crafting this world anew, build in me a confidence that I am your temple.

Make my heart believe that you are intersecting the heavens and the earth in my very being.

As I rely on technology to traverse the world outside my dwelling, let your Holy Spirit minister to the souls and bodies I email and call.

Though I am absent in the flesh, make others present with you through me.

Help me to notice the emotions in their eyes on a videoconference.

Help me to give care to the tones and tremors in their voices.

You who made time and space and planted us to live and work within them, let my love for my coworkers and those I interact with not be bound by proximity, but rather let my finite self trust in your infinite good pleasure.

O beloved Intercessor who never slumbers or sleeps, allow my midday rhythms of rest to be an act of prayer.

As I fix food and refill my glass, give me pause to give thanks.

As I sip water to quench my thirst,

A prayer that I've been praying each morning as I work from home. Praying for you all as we work in this new way.

—Karley (Gosselin) Wilke-Nadler

as I taste leftovers to satisfy my stomach, fill my teammates, my boss, my people, my suppliers, my acquaintances with good gifts.

As the sun begins to fade and the lull of afternoon approaches, help me.

Help me to view children and animals as blessings to receive, not as obstacles to overcome.

Help me to have energy to engage, to decide, to create, to innovate.

Help me to persevere unto the end, knowing that you are my strength and song.

Jesus, my Lord and my friend— hiccups in communication assail me, deadlines loom dark like the shadows on my floor, the deafening emptiness of this room threatens my confidence, and I feel utterly alone.

Jesus, my comfort and my companion— do not let me continue to consume the bread of anxious toil.

Prepare a table before me in the presence of my fear.

Shepherd me into pastures of faith, streams of dependence, and valleys of resting in your everlasting mercy.

When the time comes for me to close the laptop, turn off the lights, and exit the email, empower me to want to do this all again tomorrow.

Help me see what you see in my work.

Help me see you at work.

Just as you have transformed my house into an office, be faithful now to transform it into a home again.

I beseech you to do these things, because I need you to do them, because only you can do them, and because you are good.

Amen.

—by Will Sorrell 9