VALLEY VINE valley presbyterian church
August 2015
Volume 60, Number 7
Dear friends, What phrase does Jesus say more than any other in the New Testament? What is the most common saying within scripture as a whole? “Be not afraid.” Fear blocks other emotions, enfeebles faith, inhibits decision, undermines action. Fear limits our potential and seats us on the sidelines. In our end of summer series, we will examine what it means to live life without fear. We’ll address our fear of death and loss, our fear of failure, our fear of the future and our fear of commitment. The last fear has been characteristic of our age and is reflected in the way we struggle to make and keep marriage vows, as well as in declining levels of committed participation in civic and religious organizations. Many people are wary of making a faith commitment, and they live on the edge of Christian discipleship. They are attracted by Jesus, interested in community, drawn to His values and promises. But they fear making a faith commitment. Part of this fear is social. How will others react to their choice? Will they lose face? Will relationships become more complicated? Will they be seen as overzealous or judgmental or fanatical? Some of this commitment fear is based on a need for terminal openness. To commit is to foreclose our options. This is true in romantic relationships, job choices, and educational moves. But losing options is a necessary sacrifice, since freedom comes through commitment, and only a committed person can grow his character or her heart.
Some aversion to commitment comes from a fear of losing control and ceding authority. God will require some habits to go, some practices to change. We must recognize an authority beyond our own will, someone who requires our obedience and commands our allegiance. We must admit that God is wiser, holier, and better positioned to govern our lives. We must acknowledge His sovereignty and resign as king or queen of our own universe. This is not easy for any human ego – we all naturally defend our own right to autonomy. But resisting this commitment means resisting reality and proceeding instead on the farcical belief that I am an adequate final authority on my own. Commitment does mean submission, but it also means having an all-knowing and all-powerful and all-loving God on our side as a divine guide. What fears lurk in your heart? Let’s be committed to mastering them together this August, knowing that perfect love casts out fear. Yours faithfully,
SUNDAYS AUGUST 2-30
VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
6947 E. McDonald Drive ▪ Paradise Valley, AZ 85253-5342 Phone: 480-991-6424 ▪ Fax: 480-991-6427 Email: church@myvalleychurch.org ▪ Website: myvalleychurch.org
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Who We Are TALES OF A VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL SHERPA: by Mike Vreeland, VBS “Sing and Play Sherpa”
Valley Presbyterian Church has a story to tell. Actually, VPC has 187 stories to tell, each of them the journey of a child who attended Everest: Vacation Bible School 2015. For a week in June our campus became base camp for a journey to learn about God’s mighty power. There are three perspectives to take while looking at this annual church-wide week-long event: through the eyes of a child, on the ground with a volunteer, and in the heart of a parent without a church home. I was blessed to be able the “Sing and Play Sherpa” at VBS this year, and the kids’ excitement was infectious and palpable. Whether chasing Pastor Turner around with water guns and making him the bottom of a dogpile, or singing and dancing to songs about our God, there was no separation between enjoying life His presence in it. That was the end goal for the kids that attended; they knew God was present in all parts of their life, and we can turn to Him for any and every need. On the ground with dozens of volunteers you saw dedication, improvisation, and exhaustion. These volunteers wouldn’t have had it any other way. From hours of food prep needed each day, to team leaders, to the team that built the stage, they wanted each kid there to know they were loved and celebrated. That was the end goal for the volunteers; to combine skill, a willing heart, solid direction, and the Holy Spirit into a message that resonated with each child.
The final part of VBS was a gathering with parents and family. The kids sang songs and shared some of the stories from throughout the week. Afterwards the church hosted a time for parents to get to know the volunteers that looked after their child, and learned Valley Presbyterian Church is a community that can transform their parenting, their families, and their lives. That is the end goal for our church community; events like VBS can be living expressions of what is possible within a vibrant faith community. Dozens of families who attended VBS don’t have a church home, and I want for each of them what we all know to be true about VPC- it’s an amazing community that comes around people and collectively grows in the knowledge and love of our Savior.
Mission & Service HELPING OUR NEIGHBOR-NAVAJO ELEMENTARY
Accepting donations through Sunday, August 2. Chris Woodard: chriswoodard@myvalleychurch.org We have a unique opportunity to help the Title 1 Community at Navajo Elementary get ready for school this fall. We want to provide each of it’s 33 classroom teachers with a back to school classroom kit. Please sign up to bring as many items on this list as your family can contribute to help make this happen. Please contact Chris Woodard if you have questions. Check out the donation page: myvalleychurch.org/mission
FAMILY PROMISE
August 23-30 Chris Woodard: chriswoodard@myvalleychurch.org We are excited to host four families again at Valley Presbyterian Church through our partnership with Family Promise. We will be opening our doors to these families, serving them dinner, and turning our church into their home. Thank you all for allowing our church to bless those in need. If you have questions contact Chris Woodard.
45th ANNIVERSARY OF COOKS’ TOUR
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SAVE THE DATE: Friday, November 6, 2015 Co-chairs, Helen Wolfe: 480-994-0035 & Beryl Hassig: 480-905-1257 Annual event benefiting our community and the world. Cooks’ Tour has raised and donated over one million dollars to those in need. If interested in getting involved, supporting or learning more about this one-day event contact either co-chair.
Events
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Families Pre-K Families Take it Home
CHILDREN
Tina Gilbreath tinagilbreath@myvalleychurch.org
August 30, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Room 409 An introduction to Sunday school and the first stepping stone in Family Ministry. Giving your child a nightly blessing.
Sunday School Fall Kickoff & Blessing of the backpacks
August 9 at 9 & 10:30 a.m. worship Lunch following 10:30 a.m. worship Children will receive a token to attach to their backpacks to remind them to “bee” ready to share the good news and point others to Christ. Sunday School is offered for 3 year olds—5th grade from 9:15—10:15 and 10:45—11:45 a.m. Re-register your children today so we can plan our class lists: myvalleychurch.org/children
Sunday Schhool teachers needed
STUDENTS
Jordan Gustafson: jordangustafson@myvalleychurch.org
The Gathering Kickoff
August 16, 9 a.m, Landes Basement Jr. & Sr. High Sunday gatherings Kick Off with parents and students.
Midweek Gathering
Landes Basement Jr. High, begins Monday, August 24, 6-8 p.m. Sr. High, begins Wednesday, August 26, 7-9 p.m.
Training August 2, 12-1:30 p.m. for teachers; August 3, 6-7 p.m. for substitutes
Women’s BUNKO
Wednesday, August 5, 5-7 p.m. Leslie Woodard: lesliewoodard@myvalleychurch.org Sign up online or contact Leslie.
NEW WOMEN’S MINISTRY BIBLE STUDY
Begins August 27 & 28 (Every other Thursday evening & Friday morning) Leslie Woodard: lesliewoodard@myvalleychurch.org Study: Chase by Jennie Allen.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
CHILDCARE RESERVATION REQUIRED
Next meeting August 21 9:30-11:30 a.m., Nursery Meghan Gottfredson: nursery@myvalleychurch.org MOPS is a ministry dedicated to the message that “mothering matters.” Moms need encouragement during these critical and formative years. Open to moms throughout the community.
PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN
Wandie Hulick: 480-634-1858 Circles resume September 9. Circles, Luncheon & Speaker (on summer break) Remain active and volunteer for one of the many Cooks’ Tour opportunities. Contact Wandie.
WOMEN’S BREAKFAST DESIGNED FOR PURPOSE
Saturday, September 19, Orange Tree Golf Resort 8 a.m.-noon Speaker: Lee-Anne Allman, Designed for Purpose Our identity is not grounded in the fact that we are women but that we are followers of Jesus. Because of that need to live with intention and purpose He gives us. Tickets: $30, $15 (students)
Men’s MEN’S FALL RETREAT 2015 MEN AFTER GOD’S OWN HEART
September 25-27, Living Springs Camp, Sedona AZ David Turner: davidturner@myvalleychurch.org Join us this year and connect with other men from Valley Presbyterian Church. Go for a hike, hang out over a game of bocce ball or softball, or relax on the camp grounds. We’ll enjoy great conversations about our amazing God and how we can grow deeper in faith and live it out. Tickets: $65 (adults), $35 (ages 16-21), $100 (father/son combo)
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Get Connected COMMUNITY GROUPS
August 13, Lunch Paradise Bakery Old Town Scottsdale jeter@forbin.net
A place to study God’s word, build relationships, serve others, and grow deeper in your faith. For more information visit: myvalleychurch.org/community_groups August 9, 10:30 a.m., Lunch, off campus August 27, Volunteer Outing chriswoodard@myvalleychurch.org
Sundays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Calvin Center wild4uofa@aol.com meets year round
3rd Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. Lunch Bunch, Camelback Golf Club Kickoff, August 30, 4:30-7 p.m. Potluck, BBQ, Pool Party tinagilbreath@myvalleychurch.org Resumes September 13
SPORTS MINISTRY
Della Berg: dellaberg@myvalleychurch.org, 480-991-6242 ext. 168 Join the fun and fellowship! Be active and have a great time. All activities in the Landes Center, unless noted. • Basketball: men, all ages, Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 a.m. • Basketball: youth, ages 6-16, Sundays, 1-2 p.m., 2-3 p.m. • Line Dancing: adults, Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon • Martial Arts: ages 5 & up, Tuesdays 6-7 p.m., Thursdays 4:30-5:30 p.m. • Pickleball: ages 8-108, Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays 6-8 p.m. • Sportball: ages 3-5, Wednesdays, 2:15-3:15 p.m. • Twinkle Toes Dance: ages 3-5, Mondays, Room 404, 2:15-3:15 p.m.
Music & Arts Jennifer Hamm: jenniferhamm@myvalleychurch.org
Note from the new Minister of Music…
I am thrilled to be starting my adventure at Valley
Presbyterian Church! I am looking forward to creating beautiful music with you in a church that has such a rich musical heritage. Please stay tuned for new musical ensemble opportunities as I explore all that VPC has to offer. Have you ever thought about singing in the choir? Here are just a few of the awesome benefits of singing in a church choir. Singing in a choir… • Is good for your body, soul and mental health • Lowers stress and boosts feelings of community • Eases anxiety and elevates your spirits • Soothes pain, boosts heart health and helps your memory • Helps with listening and social skills • Enables you to glorify God through song!
Now is a perfect time to join the choir! As we begin a new church year together, we will learn exciting new music to lead the congregation in worship. We will also be starting work on our Christmas concert. All are encouraged and welcome to join this ministry! Rehearsals begin Wednesday, September 9 7:30 p.m., Choir Room I hope to see you there! Jennifer Hamm
CELEBRATE THE ARTS
2015-16 season, Phoenix Theatre Wandie Hulick: 480-634-1858 Contact Wandie for tickets. Group tickets: $34
Shows include: October 1: Chicago December 3: The Wizard of Oz February 4: Calendar Girls March 31: Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill (Hormel Theatre) April: 28: The All Night Strut! March 26: When you Wish: The Story of Walt Disney
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Care & Support COMING THIS FALL……
MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES
David Turner: davidturner@myvalleychurch.org Tammy Milne: tammymilne@myvalleychurch.org
Mental Health 24-hour Crisis Line 602-222-9444 Marc Community Resources Inc. Andy, Information and Referral Coordinator: 480-994-4407, Mentalhealthaz.org
Get Your Flu Shot at Valley! Sunday, October 11, 9-11 a.m., Church Office Lobby Representatives from Walgreens will be providing flu shots to our community.
Mental Health Printed Information Available Valley Presbyterian Church Library, reception counter.
Grief Support Sessions Begin Wednesday, October 14 Facilitated by Stephen Ministers: Karen Annis and Ken Royer This is a 5-week walk through the grieving process. Registration through Encore University is encouraged.
REMEMBRANCE Our church family extends its Christian sympathy to the family and friends of:
5K NAMI Walk 2015 Saturday, October 17, State Capital Join in or help support mental health awareness in the Valley as members of Valley’s Mental Health Leadership Team participat. Even Fido can join the team! Watch for sign up tables on Sundays in September.
Charmaine Burcham Kit Harris Al Kendree Katrina Koch LaVerne Lewis Lester Rayner Tom Robinson
Homebound Visitors & Lay Hospital Chaplains Training this fall Pastor Turner and Kathy Oppenhuizen will provide in-depth training for those in our community who are interested in joining our care ministry teams. If interested in joining us, please contact Tammy.
Educational Enrichment CHILDCARE RESERVATION REQUIRED
ADULT EDUCATION STUDIES
Wednesdays, beginning September 30 Della Berg: dellaberg@myvalleychurch.org • “Overview: The Book of Romans” Dr. Andrew Pitts 6:30-7:30 p.m., Chapel • “Music, Theology, and Great Hymns of Faith” Dr. Dub Putnam 6:30-7:30 p.m., Room 409
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• “A.D. – The Bible Continues” Dave Turner/Ed Glady 6:30-8 p.m., Calvin Center
ADVENTURES IN LIFELONG LEARNING
Tracy Keller: encore@myvalleychurch.org 480-991-6424 ext. 165
FALL TERM BEGINS OCTOBER 13
Catalogs will be mailed first week of August. 35 outstanding course offerings including several new classes. No matter where your interests lie, EU has something for everyone.
ENCORE BACK TO SCHOOL KICKOFF
October 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Fountain Patio Food truck, live jazz, art show and more. Art students are invited to showcase their artwork. Please contact the Encore office to include your work.
Church News SESSION
FINANCE
Kris Bahr: krisbahr@myvalleychurch.org Valley Presbyterian Church Finances Year to Date through June 30, 2015 Actual Budget Total income $1,265,400 $1,295,400 Total expense $1,065,200 $1,105,100 Difference $200,200 $190,300
ORDINATION STANDARDS
Jeannie Wright: jeanniewright@myvalleychurch.org There are a number of resources available for personal study as the Session continues to discern God’s will and direction for our congregation on the issue of ordination standards for Elders and Deacons. Valley Presbyterian Church will be hosting a three-part seminar series with speakers from across the country. Books by most of these speakers are currently available for check-out at the front desk in the church office. Additionally, a bibliography of relevant literature is available online: myvalleychurch.org/about-vpc/resource-links A book with process and seminar details will be available starting in August. Contact Jeannie Wright with any questions.
Kathy Arner Mary Artigue Sarah Brammer David Eaton Dick Fawley Fred Fetters Gloria Gabler Ed Glady Lisa Keylon Lisa LaFon Richard Lockwood Ruth Lukian Darrah MacDougall Joan Nastro Prescott Pohl Shirley Polk John Samota Roy Schumacher Vicki Tatum Matt Winter Clerk of Session: Karen Meyer
Thank you to all who have helped to address the needs of our beautiful campus.
Foundation FOUNDATION – MEET THE TRUSTEES
Beverly Cooper, Trustee 480-946-4050 Beverly Cooper became a member of Valley Presbyterian Church in 2009 after growing up Methodist in Connecticut. Beverly has served as a committee member of the annual Legacy Dinner on the live auction, silent auction and ticket sales for the past three years. She is currently a Stephen Minister, a past Deacon, and served on the All Church Nominating Committee. Her educational background has taken her from starting private school to running a modeling agency school. Hobbies include creative knitting projects, yoga, opera, travel and spectator sports. She has two grandchildren. Beverly loves our church and is committed to serving as a member of the Foundation.
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Worship
reasons
August 23 Fear of Death
August 30 Fear of the Future Weekly Kilgore Chapel 8 a.m.
Sanctuary 9 a.m.
Valley Presbyterian Church
August 16 Fear of Failure
Landes Center 10:30 a.m.
Communion August 2
Pastoral Staff David Joynt, David Turner Pastors Emeriti Thomas A. Erickson, G. Wooden Garvin
The VALLEY VINE USPS 621-060, is published monthly by VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. Periodical Postage paid at Scottsdale, AZ. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Valley Presbyterian Church, 6947 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253-5342
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to praise coming fall 2015 valley presbyterian church
SERMON SERIES August 2
Necessary Fear August 9
Fear of Commitment