VALLEY VINE Valley Presbyterian Church
February 2016
Volume 61, Number 1 How well do you control your thoughts? In Romans 12:2, Paul says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may prove what is the will of God, what is good, acceptable, and perfect.”
Dear friends, Everything we say or do shapes us from the inside out. Every thought we have impacts our soul and ultimately our character. Some thoughts and attitudes advance us in obedience and holiness and joy. Others inhibit our growth, infect our emotions, and poison our hearts. Everyone who is healthy and whole desires to be virtuous, for the virtues we acquire become pathways to freedom in the life of faith. Who would not want to be passionate, self-disciplined, pure, optimistic, generous, gracious, and humble?
This Lent, we will study the freedom that comes to the disciple who learns to control his or her thoughts. May this season be, for all of us, one in which we mature in our faith and grow from the inside out! Look for an opportunity this month to greet and encourage Rev. Mike and Rev. Kelly Nieto, our new clergy couple, who are excited about fostering that growth in all the men and women in our congregation. Yours faithfully,
Yet the acquisition of these virtues is no easy matter. For to have holy habits of the heart, we must reject the darker tendencies that live within us. All of us have struggled with vices that match the list of virtues—laziness, gluttony, lust, apathy, greed, anger, and pride. This struggle has long been recognized as a necessary part of the Christian journey. Evagrius, a 4th century priest in Constantinople, and later a hermit in Egypt, wrote and spoke about the “eight deadly thoughts.” Later tradition condensed these into seven deadly sins, all of which germinate in the mind of the believer.
New Series starts Sunday, February 7
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
Valley Presbyterian Church has a story to tell. It’s a story about global change that happens when our town comes together. On February 27, schools, businesses and organizations will come together for our town’s first annual Paradise Valley for Africa Day; sponsored by the City of Paradise Valley and hosted by VPC. Through this event money will be raised to support two organizations in Malawi, Africa: Villages in Partnership (ViP) and Ministry of Hope (MoH). Malawi is the third poorest country in the world, with a conservative estimate of three million orphans. Food is scarce; sixty percent of the country’s seventeen million people live at or below the international poverty line of $1.90 per day. Through the efforts of ViP and MoH, hope is being brought to the most destitute areas of Malawi. Wells are dug to provide safe drinking water. Farming techniques are taught for food security. Education is happening to ensure children’s future success. Mobile medical clinics are sponsored for the health and well-being of the villagers. Electrification is wired to the villages to bring maize mills and to support other business and living needs. Through the efforts of Paradise Valley for Africa Day we will become global conscious citizens raising funds to help the marginalized and forgotten. Join with us to stand up for those who are not able, to speak up for those who have been silenced, and to bring hope where there is despair. Learn more: pv4africa.org
Mission & Service Family Promise
45th Annual Cooks’ Tour Update
Ushers Needed: 8 & 9AM services
Cooks’ Tour 2016 Crafters Kick-off
February 28-March 5 Chris Woodard: chriswoodard@myvalleychurch.org Four Family Promise families will be spending the night at VPC starting February 28. If you would like to host, make a meal, or spend the night, contact Chris. John Lee: jwlims@aol.com, 602-318-3008 Serve the church one Sunday a month, meet members and visitors, and be an active participant in the church worship services. Contact John.
Deacon Flower Ministry
Ron Norris: 602-617-1601 We are looking for people to deliver flowers to three of our homebound friends on Sundays. Call Ron to sign-up.
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Donate Flowers Ron Norris: ronnorrisaz@aol.com Katrina Carney: katrinacarney@myvalleychurch.org If you would like to donate flowers for our worship services in the Chapel or Sanctuary in honor or memory of a loved one contact Ron or Katrina.
Co-chairs, Helen Wolfe & Beryl Hassig Thanks to your generosity and participation in Cooks’ Tour 2015, $28,000 will be donated to causes and organizations locally and around the world. We will announce a list of supported ministries soon! Margaret Wheeler: 480-483-2609 Tuesdays starting March 1, 9AM-noon, Calvin Center A great opportunity for fellowship and to use unique skills to help others. Crafters create wonderful items to sell at Cooks’ Tour. No experience necessary—please join us!
Church Office Phone Receptionist
Kris Bahr: krisbahr@myvalleychurch.org Serve the church by answering phones. Four-hour shifts available Monday-Friday, especially during the summer. No experience necessary. Training provided. Subs are always welcome.
Events PARADISE VALLEY FOR AFRICA Saturday, February 27 9AM-noon Kiva Elementary School Field The Mayor of Paradise Valley has officially decreed that February 27 be known as Paradise Valley for Africa Day. VPC will partner with the City of PV to host a festival on the Kiva Elementary School field with music, food, games, fun runs, bike rides, and other fun activities. All proceeds raised will go to support Ministry of Hope and Villages in Partnership in Malawi, Africa. This will be an exciting day for our church, town, and global community! Let your friends know about Paradise Valley for Africa!
Schedule of Events
Website: pv4africa.org
9AM 9:30 10 11:30
Facebook: facebook.com/ParadiseValleyForAfrica Donate online: gofundme.com/pv4africa
Event start and check-in Eight mile bike race Two mile fun run Awards ceremony and closing events
Register online before February 21 and receive a free T-Shirt: pv4africa.org/registration
Questions? Email: info@pv4africa.org
FIND YOUR PASSION: MEN’S BREAKFAST 2016 Saturday, February 20 7AM-noon Gainey Ranch Clubhouse Tickets: $30, students $15 Men, you will not want to miss this morning of great food, fellowship, and inspiration. Check out our great lineup of speakers online: myvalleychurch.org/men
2016 VPC Concert Series
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2016 CONCERT SERIES: SLAVERY AND SONG Sunday, February 21 4PM, Sanctuary, Free will offering
Valley Presbyterian Church Chancel Choir Slavery and Song is a presentation of Mountain View Presbyterian Church Sanctuary Choir performances and commentary celebrating Pastor Ian Gilmour, Edinburgh, Scotland the musical heritage of African-American Sunday, February 21, 4PM Christianity. VPC’s Chancel Choir will be joined Valley Presbyterian Church Sanctuary by Mt. View Presbyterian Sanctuary Choir. Free will offering, reception to follow Reception to follow sponsored by 3 Valley Presbyterian Foundation
Families Children
Tina Gilbreath tinagilbreath@myvalleychurch.org
The Promised Rock VPC Student Ministry
4th Grade Parent Take-It-Home-Event: Serving as a family
February 21, 10:30AM, Room 415-416 Teach your family about what it means to serve.
EXPLORERS! Games, Music, and Theater
Tuesdays, 3:30-5:30PM Singing in worship, February 28 Tina Gilbreath: tinagilbreath@myvalleychurch.org Two Choirs: K-2nd & 3rd-5th grade Theater: 3rd-5th grade EXPLORERS! provides children with a safe and fun environment to learn about the world in creative ways. Music and theater are large components of each week, but no experience is necessary. Your child will engage with other EXPLORERS! to build, draw, play, craft, sing and perform with staff members from our Children’s and Music ministries.
Save the Date for Vacation Bible School 2016: Cave Quest!
June 20-24 We will have a couple of volunteer training opportunities and as always there are jobs big and small: station leaders, snack helpers, crew leaders, volunteer appreciation team. Contact Tina if you plan to join us to share Jesus with our little ones this summer!
Jordan Gustafson: jordangustafson@myvalleychurch.org
The Gathering
9AM, Landes Basement Jr. & Sr. High Sunday gatherings
Midweek Gathering
Landes Basement Jr. High, 6-8PM, Sr. High, 7-9PM
Valley Day School 2016-17 Registration
Begins February 1 Julie Johnson: juliejohnson@myvalleychurch.org 480-991-6424 ext. 125 For 53 years Valley Day has provided a Christian school built on a sound educational program, where meaningful relationships develop between home and school, child and teacher, and the world around them. For a tour or registration information, please contact Julie.
Educational Enrichment Spring Term starts March 8, 2016. Catalogs available. Register today. Keep on learning!
Adult Education
Rev. Kelsey Woodruff: kelseyw@myvalleychurch.org
Wednesday Classes starting February 17
ADVENTURES IN LIFELONG LEARNING
Tracy Keller: tracykeller@myvalleychurch.org 480-991-6424 ext. 165 To register for classes, seminars or to purchase Speaker Series tickets, please visit: EncoreUniv.org
Saturday Morning Speaker Series
February 13, 8:30AM, Landes Center, Tickets: $25 Featuring: Cita Stelzer, Author, Dinner with Churchill Cita’s attention to detail in her book has earned her rave reviews by the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and the Washington Examiner. Listen and learn how this great leader displayed diplomacy at the dinner table.
In Memory...This month we said goodbye to Bill Brinkman and Dilys Williams, two students who had found a meaningful community at Encore University. They will be missed.
“Encore is the best thing that has happened to me...Encore has brought me out of my house and now I’m with other people.” Bill Brinkman
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What does Encore mean to you?
Share your story. Like us on facebook or send email.
Beliefs and Practices of the First-Century Church*
Every other Wednesday, February 17 - April 27 6-7:30PM, Calvin Center Instructor: Dr. Andrew Pitts This course looks in detail at the beliefs and practices of the earliest Christians, as represented by the New Testament.
The Holy Spirit: Not a Third Wheel*
Wednesdays, February 17 - March 16 6:30-7:30PM, Room 409 Instructor: Ed Glady Learn more about the Holy Spirit and how forming a deeper bond with the Holy Spirit can and will deepen your daily walk with God. *Childcare Available To reserve space email: nursery@myvalleychurch.org
Get Connected Community Groups: For more information visit: myvalleychurch.org/community_groups Thursdays, 7:30-9PM, Member’s home Chris Woodard: chriswoodard@myvalleychurch.org Come and enjoy fellowship and friendship, whether you’re in college or starting your career. Tina Gilbreath: tinagilbreath@myvalleychurch.org We are encouraging this community group to attend one of the Wednesday night classes and look for info about social and service projects. Sundays, 9-10AM, Room 409 David Turner: davidturner@myvalleychurch.org Connects families with older kids, singles, and blended families. Bible study, social events, and service projects. Sundays, 10:30-11:30AM, Fireside Room Sarah Burnette: sarahwiggins@gmail.com Empty nesters celebrating the opportunity to grow together in faith and fellowship. 2nd Thursdays, 1-2:30PM, Crossing 104 Judith Robins: judithrobins4386@msn.com Active seniors gathering for bible study, social events, and service activities. Sundays, 10:30-11:30AM, Calvin Center Thursday Fellowship: February 11, 3PM Mexican Train, 5PM Dinner, Fireside Room February 25, 3PM Card Making, 5PM Dinner, Fireside Room Lunch Bunch: February 18, 11:30AM, Camelback Golf Club Wandie Hulick: wild4uofa@aol.com
Sports Ministry: Della Berg: dellaberg@myvalleychurch.org, 480-991-6242 ext. 168 • Men’s Basketball: adults, Thursdays, 6:30-7:30AM • Youth Basketball: ages 8-16, Sundays, 1-3PM, Wednesdays, 5:45-6:45PM • Line Dancing: adults, Fridays, 10AM-noon • Martial Arts: ages 5 & up, Thursdays 4:30-5:30PM • Pickleball: ages 8-108, Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays 6-8PM • Sportball: ages 3-5, Wednesdays, 2:15-3:15PM Join the fun and fellowship!
All activities in Landes Center unless noted.
Music & Arts Minister of Music
Jennifer Hamm: jenniferhamm@myvalleychurch.org
Requiem Reflections
2016 Concert Series: Slavery and Song* VPC Chancel Choir and Mountain View Presbyterian Church Sanctuary Choir
Throughout Lent, the Chancel Choir will be exploring different movements from various Requiems. These will be presented in worship and will include movements from Requiems written by John Rutter, Johannes Brahms, Mark Hayes, W.A. Mozart and Gabriel Faure. Each Sunday you will find more information about the song and the Requiem in the bulletin.
Sunday, February 21, 4PM, VPC Sanctuary Free will offering to be taken. Reception following sponsored by Valley Presbyterian Foundation. Pastor Ian Gilmour from Edinburgh, Scotland, will share with us his research of African-American spirituals, how they’re used in worship, how they enshrine key aspects of black liberation theology, and how they sustain the spirit to enable it to resist oppression.
Join the choir! Rehearsal schedule: Chancel Choir, Wednesdays, 7:30-9PM Valley Ringers, Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30PM
*Childcare Available To reserve space email: nursery@myvalleychurch.org
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Care & Support Stephen Ministry:
Congregational Care
Training Starts February 9, 6-8PM, Fireside Room Tom Van Arsdale: 480-235-3196 Karen Annis: 480-510-5385 Remembrances Stephen Ministers offer one-to-one Christian care to people Our church family extends its Christian sympathy to the going through tough times. They are equipped to help family and friends of: our church family navigate the bumps in life, from job loss Bill Brinkman Peggy Linkin to family and relationship challenges. If you have a caring Donald Hale Billye McLaughlin heart, and are interested in becoming a Stephen Minister, Charles Jenkins Avis Ruby please contact Tom or Karen today. It is not too late to pick Dilys Williams up an application at the front desk. David Turner: davidturner@myvalleychurch.org Tammy Milne: tammymilne@myvalleychurch.org
Mental Health Information
Save the Date: Deacon Ministry Spotlight
Call today, help is available. Ralph Engler, Mental Health Leadership Team: 480-855-7062 Mental Health 24-hour crisis line: 602-222-9444 or 911 AZ Teen Lifeline: 602-248-8336, teenlifeline.org
April 10, 2016 Do you have a passion to serve others? VPC’s Deacon Ministries have touched the lives of countless people. On April 10 you can learn how to get involved. Enjoy music and food and sign up for a volunteer assignment!
Men Men’s Breakfast: Find your passion
Saturday, February 20, 7AM-noon David Turner: davidturner@myvalleychurch.org Breakfast served at 7:30AM Gainey Ranch Clubhouse Tickets: $30, students $15 Join us! This year promises to be a great time for men to come together in fellowship.
Get your ticket online today: myvalleychurch.org/men Dr. M. Craig Barnes: President, Princeton Theological Seminary Ron Wolfley: Former NFL player and local radio talk show host Dr. Robert Moffit: President, Harvest and co-founder, Disciples Nations Alliance
Women Receive weekly Women’s Ministry email:
Send your name and email to: Leslie Woodard: lesliewoodard@myvalleychurch.org
2016 Women’s ministry Bible study*
Every other Thursday, 7-8:45PM Every other Friday, 9-10:45AM Leslie Woodard: lesliewoodard@myvalleychurch.org Study: Seamless by Angie Smith.
This study covers the people, places, and promises of the Bible, tying them together into the greater story of Scripture.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)*
Friday, February 5 & 19, 9:30-11:30AM, Calvin Center Meghan Gottfredson: nursery@myvalleychurch.org MOPS is a ministry dedicated to the message that “mothering matters.” Open to moms throughout the community.
Save the Date: Set Free-Women’s Retreat April 8-10, Chapel Rock Conference Center Prescott, Arizona Only a few openings remaining! Register today.
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*Childcare Available To reserve space email: nursery@myvalleychurch.org
Presbyterian Women
Wandie Hulick: wild4uofa@aol.com All women are invited to join a Circle meeting. Meet new friends and study the Bible! Tuesday, February 9 Mary: 9:30AM, Jeanne Campo/Barbara McCreary Westminster Village Saguaro Room 480-994-4116 Wednesday, February 10 Esther: 9:30AM, Betty Heenan, 480-948-8631 5925 E. Beryl Ave., Paradise Valley Naomi: 11:30AM, Donna Yorston, 480-947-8126 7011 E. Jackrabbit Rd., Paradise Valley Rebekah: 9:30AM, Emily Courtright, 480-948-8952 10196 E. Cochise Dr., Scottsdale Rachel: 9:30AM, Lara Robinson, 602-867-1570 VPC Chapel Parlor Ruth: 12PM, Ruth Rehfeldt/Joyce Jennings, 480-991-6424 VPC Fireside Room
PW Luncheon & Speaker
February 24, 11:30AM, Landes Center, $10 RSVP: 480-991-6424 by Friday, February 19 Presentation: Women of the Bible
Church News SESSION
News from Session At the January Session meeting, we welcomed new nominated Elders and said farewell to retiring Elders with thanks and appreciation. The Session approved hiring Rev. Kelsey Woodruff as Parish Associate. The officers of the Session for this year are Karen Gill Meyer, Clerk; Fred Fetters, Treasurer; and John Stuart, Assistant Treasurer Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. Blessings, Karen Gill Meyer, Clerk of Session
Annual Congregational Dinner & Meeting
Tuesday, February 2, 7PM, Landes Center No dinner ticket purchase at the door. Menu: Pot roast & 60th birthday cake Join us as we celebrate God’s work at VPC in 2015! During this past year of blessing you shared Christ’s love with thousands, touched the hearts of children, and fed, clothed, nurtured, and witnessed to people in need.
Finance
Clerk of Session: Karen Meyer
Kris Bahr: krisbahr@myvalleychurch.org Valley Presbyterian Church Finances Year to Date through December 31, 2015 Actual Budget Total income $2,348,100 $2,456,200 Total expense $2,285,400 $2,456,200 Difference $62,700 $0
Kathy Arner Mary Artigue Sarah Brammer David Eaton Fred Fetters Gloria Gabler Ed Glady Lisa Keylon Lisa LaFon Richard Lockwood Darrah MacDougall Joan Nastro Prescott Pohl Shirley Polk John Samota Roy Schumacher Vicki Tatum Matt Winter
Church Office Closed
Presidents’ Day, February 15
Foundation Legacy Dinner-Salute, Celebrate, Embrace
Friday, March 18, 2016, 6PM Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch Celebrating the Foundation’s 40th Anniversary Tickets: $125, in the church office, or contact Penne McKee: 480-947-0130, pendlepenn@gmail.com Online: myvalleychurch.org/foundation Questions? Call Della Berg: 480-991-6424 ext. 168
What’s Fund the Need? Three important campus improvement projects have been identified; the goal of Fund the Need is to fund these projects completely in one night. It’s an exciting and tangible way for people to see their resources turn into tools for ministry.
What happens at the Legacy Dinner? This is a night that changes the life of the church. At this year’s Legacy Dinner, you will find wonderful raffle and auction items, from fun excursions for you, friends, or family members, to contributions to our church campus “Fund the Need” beautification projects. Join us again this year at this elegant and fun event!
Campus Signage: Finding your way around the VPC campus can be a challenge. Inviting and vibrant signage can add greater meaning to buildings and what takes place within them.
This year’s exciting Live Auction Items: • • • •
3-Night stay at condominium in Rocky Point, Mexico Dinner for 8 at home with Chef/Pastor & Julia Joynt 4-Night stay at Sedona condominium Exquisite Dinner for 10 at Montelucia Resort
The 2016 Fund the Need projects are:
Landscaping: VPC is embedded in a beautiful desert landscape; this project will enhance the natural aesthetic around campus. “Loo Renew”: Believe it or not, church restroom quality is one of the main indicators of a visitor returning to a church. This project will remodel the restrooms across from the Sanctuary.
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Worship Times Kilgore Chapel, 8 & 11:45AM Sanctuary, 9AM
Preaching Pastor David Joynt Pastor David Joynt Dr. Craig Barnes Pastor David Joynt
Landes Center, 10:30AM
February 7 February 14 February 21 February 28
arch 18, 2016, 6pm Begin the LentenM season at VPC:
Scottsdale Resort Ash Wednesday at McCormick Ranch Wednesday, February 10 6:30PM, Sanctuary Get your tickets starting January 10
Valley Presbyterian Church
Communion
February 7
Ash Wednesday
February 10
Pastors
David Joynt, David Turner, Kelsey Woodruff
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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