February Valley Vine 2019

the

Valley Vine

THE COMMUNITY ISSUE

Married, moved, employed— Now what?

By Karley (Gosselin) Wilke-Nadler

Feeding spiritual hunger

By Pastor Kelly Nieto

What small groups can do

By Chris Woodard, Bob Combs, & Aaron Parrott

February 2019

Volume sixty-four, Number one

Valley Presbyterian Church

Senior Pastor

DAVID JOYNT Despite the excitement of my trip to Spain and Portugal, I missed VPC during my time away. The excitement and joy of our Christmas celebration was etched in my memory, and looking back at last year, I felt enormously grateful for so many things.

I am surrounded by faithful and inspiring colleagues. Their commitment and creativity makes every day’s work fresh and exciting. Conducting staff reviews this year will be a joy and a celebration. As our Oasis Wednesday program begins again in 2019, the value of life among God’s generations stands out. Adults, teenagers, and children will gather to sing, learn, and connect. Scripture will come alive and relationships flourish. We have 48 registered for Oasis Kids! and have had to add more adult offerings to accommodate demand. Plans developed last year for our work in family ministry have come to fruition, with Tina Gilbreath and Travis Kingma exercising great leadership in new roles. MentorKids USA and Family Promise have launched new initiatives with VPC as the primary partner, and their work with marginal youth and homeless families will grow significantly during this year.

When pastors travel, they worry about the pastoral care issues they leave behind. But when I am away, I know David Turner and his dedicated team of deacons and caregivers will provide critical and caring support to our members and friends.

I saw many beautiful cathedrals while in Spain, whose ornate art and stunning architecture provided sensory delight. But I did not experience the emotional power or depth of the music our choirs and musicians offer every week at VPC. None of this happens without you, without the loyalty of hundreds of volunteers, and the generosity of all our members. The New Year, for which I hope you are praying, will involve disruption and adjustment as we renovate and remodel. But there will be innovation and initiative as well.

In 2019, we will launch a new approach to outreach and welcome and develop new ways to utilize small groups for our adults.

This month, look for our Scottsdale and Paradise Valley for Africa single worship service on Sunday, February 24 at 9:30AM, followed by a celebration of our work in Malawi.

Later in the spring, we will leverage the large attendance at Bunny Business as a way to involve both members and non-members in our mission. More information on that event will be forthcoming.

Thanks to all of you – the best part of going away, for me, is returning. Blessings for 2019!

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Cover photo by Stephanie Moors on Unsplash

Highlighte d

EVENTS

AUTISM AND THE FAMILY SYSTEM Saturday, February 2, 9-11:30AM Fireside Room Led by Dr. Brie Turns, Ph.D., LAMFT Sign up online: vpc.church/care A free workshop for families.

2019 Day of Discipleship

Featuring Fuller Seminary Author & Professor Dr. Terry Hargrave Saturday, February 2 8:30AM-1PM, Free, Landes Center Sign up online: vpc.church/classes

SINGLE WORSHIP SERVICE CELEBRATION & FESTIVAL Sunday, February 24 Worship: 9:30AM, Sanctuary Festival: 10:30, Sanctuary Patio Learn more about all VPC does to help those in Malawi, Africa at this all ages event!

Women's Ministry

Sip & Social Justice

Tuesday, March 4, 6:30-8:30PM Camp Social Patio (6107 N. 7th St., Phoenix) Cost:$20, Sign up: vpc.church/women Learn about doing local charity work!

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WHAT COMMUNITY MEANS TO ME

By Karley (Gosselin) Wilke-Nadler Associate Director of Student Ministry

Karley: karleyg@vpc.church

I wanted to take this awesome opportunity to introduce myself! I am still a rather new face here at VPC. My name is Karley (Gosselin) Wilke-Nadler. I started at VPC in July 2018 as the Associate Director of Student Ministries. Kevin (my husband of two months) and I have experienced so many changes in the past few months, and we are so glad to have found VPC amidst it all. In the past couple of years, Kevin and I have moved crosscounty (twice!), I began seminary at Denver Seminary to earn my Master of Divinity degree, started our first adult jobs, got engaged, and married! That is a lot of change and a lot of new experiences.

I am originally from a suburb outside Milwaukee, Wisconsin called Mequon, that is located right on Lake Michigan. I have three sisters (I’m number two) named Ellisha, Rhylan, and Sheridan. They are some of my closest friends and it is a ton of fun being all together!

My dad played professional hockey for a number of years and now works at USA Hockey. My mom worked as a salon manager and hairstylist before taking time off work to travel with my dad on his work endeavors. I grew up in an extremely loving home (not perfect, but loving), where my parents spoke about the love of Jesus and the grace and peace that He offers us.

My love for student ministries stems from my own experiences growing up. I grew up in a great church about the same size as VPC. I spent middle school and high school learning about what it meant to be in a relationship with God, learning how to deeply connect with Him through prayer and Bible study, and how to develop relationships with those around me. The highlights of my middle and high school years are experiences shared with my church youth group. Some of these include serving at St. Ben’s Food Shelter (gave me my love for serving others), mission trips to New York, Tennessee, Maryland, Colorado, and beyond, and weeks spent at summer camp in the Northwoods of Wisconsin and the mountains of Colorado. These weeks spent with my pastors, mentors, and friends are ones that shaped how I view the world and how I care for others to ultimately point to Jesus. These experiences shaped who I am today.

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Karley & Kevin

These moments also shaped my view of community and how I experience the love and goodness of God through community. Community takes many shapes; it can be any group of people with something in common. Student ministries taught me what true community should look like: a place of mutual love and understanding, a place where no one is judged, and a place to feel fully known and loved by God and by those around you. Bob Goff, author of Love Does and founder of Love Does Nonprofit, says about community, “God delights when we live in community. Think symphony, not soloist.” When rooted in community, we can achieve much more and bring light to the Kingdom of God in all that we do.

As I grew up and left for college, the teachings from my parents and church stuck with me as I studied at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I sought out deep community in many ways- I joined a sorority, I joined clubs, I joined study groups, I went to all of the events my dorm offered. But something was still missing. Near the end of my freshman year, I began attending Blackhawk Church and Delight Ministries.

These were the first communities I joined in college that were rooted around a mutual love for God and a yearning for His presence in our lives. There was something different about these communities. We loved one another deeply and cared for one another in ways that I had not experienced in any of the other groups I had joined. The friendships I made in these groups were centered around service, generosity, and had absolutely no pre-requisites or requirements for being a part. These communities were diverse in all areas, but common in one-love for God and love for others. As I continued through college, these people were my people. A love for God is what attracted me to my husband during this time as well.

After we moved to Denver, me to begin seminary and Kevin for his first job, we got engaged. We had just made new friends and started to feel like we knew the city. Then Kevin got an amazing job offer as a Landscape Architect in Tempe. I was anxious to move-I knew so little about Arizona! After a lot of prayer and discussion with mentors and friends, we decided to go for it. Although I continued seminary online, I did not have a job when we first arrived, and the first couple months in Arizona were extremely lonely. I didn't know anyone, I didn’t have a job to keep me busy or to meet new friends. Then I saw the job for Associate Director of Student Ministry on VPC’s website. I didn't realize how monumental that would be to help

Arizona feel like home. I jumped right into the job by going on the Middle School Mission Trip. The students on the trip were so amazing and welcoming. Our high school students opened up their group to me and showed me the love of Jesus. As the summer went on, Kevin and I felt welcomed-one of the many attributes we seek when looking for a church community. We have found a place where we feel we are fully known and loved as we are. I am here to serve in a lot of ways, but what I receive from being in our student ministry community is far greater.

So, here is the deal: community, despite your age or other identifiers, is essential in this chaotic world.

Especially amidst change. Especially during life’s big moments. God created community and fellowship for us to thrive. He demonstrated the importance of community in our lives by being surrounded by those who point us to Him. Community can be hard and messy because people can be hard and messy.

Despite this, there is so much beauty in community.

Community points us to God, reminds us of who we are in His eyes, and gives us the support and strength to carry on when life feels a little too overwhelming.

Our students need community, our parents need community, our children need community.

Everyone, everywhere wants to be known and loved for who they truly are. May we, as a church body, strive to be a place of community that invites others in and walks alongside them amidst change, heartache, and joy. May VPC be a place where children and students of all backgrounds are welcomed and embraced. May VPC be a place that is welcoming to students so they can form their own understanding of being a member of the community of faith.

Karley & Kevin's Wedding

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IT ONLY TAKES A SPARK

By Pastor Kelly Nieto

Kelly: kellyn@vpc.church

Winter in Arizona is not as cold as some other parts of the United States, but we certainly do feel the chill on frosty mornings and as the sun sets. When the day ends, the smell of fireplaces fill the air, and it makes me remember campfires in the Santa Cruz mountains as our Junior High youth group sang “Pass it On (It Only Takes a Spark).” You might be singing along already: It only takes a spark to get a fire going/And soon all those around can warm up to it’s glowing/That’s how it is with God’s love/Once you’ve experienced it/You spread his love to everyone, you want to pass it on.

It is hard to imagine that Christianity, with billions of people worldwide, began with a small group of men and women who followed Jesus while he walked here on the earth. The gospel message is simple-Jesus Christ came to seek and save the lost-yet the effect of this message is powerful. The effect of this message is a multiplication, a spark igniting a fire, a movement that is incredible and beyond our understanding.

My friend, Tephillah, speaks fluent Mandarin. When we traveled together in Europe, her Mandarin was much more useful than my broken French. In every city, we would find a local Chinese restaurant, Tephillah would smile and chat, and we would immediately have plates filled with warm food in front of us. At one restaurant, the owner even exchanged our currency for us! This common language was the immediate connection between total strangers.

The Kingdom of God is near when the simple message of the Gospel, “Jesus came to seek and to save the lost,” spreads like a fire, bringing freedom and forgiveness. The Kingdom of God is near when those who have heard the message and believed look around and invite others to the tremendous banquet of God’s love and presence.

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Cooks' Tour 2018

One recent Saturday morning, a group of 17 women gathered to put together meals. It was a pretty simple concept—prepare a bunch of meals so we have the answer to the question, "What's for dinner?" After we each made three meals for our families, there was a great deal of food still left over. Some made more meals to take home, and some suggested people or ministries who could use some ready-to-heat meals.

Beth Glady encouraged each one to make a meal for one of their neighbors! From that morning, from the hands of 17 ladies, over 400 people will be fed.

The women of VPC like to feed people. Over this past year, the food collected, the meals prepared, and fellowship around tables has been enough to feed a few thousand people in our area and around the world. Jesus loved to feed people in abundance, taking the very little and blessing it to fill the mouths of thousands. Multiplication!

There is another type of hunger beyond the physical— it's a spiritual hunger. Jesus said, “Blessed are you who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for you will be filled" (Matthew 5). After Jesus ascended into heaven, Peter stood on the Temple steps during the feast of Pentecost, preaching about Jesus. Just before this moment, the Holy Spirit had descended in tongues of fire, giving the disciples the ability to speak about Jesus in different languages. The feast of

Pentecost was a celebration of the “first fruits” of the harvest, rejoicing in the gathering of the harvest and the many who would be fed. After hearing the men speak in their own languages, and after hearing that sermon, over 3,000 men and women from all over the known world became followers of Christ. Imagine the tremendous impact of these words, as all of these men and women go back to their home countries and tell others about Jesus. They now all speak a common language of belief in Jesus. Multiplication!

Is there food in heaven? Yes, there is! When Christ returns, the celebration described in the Book of Revelation is the “wedding feast of the Lamb.” The church celebrates the harvest, the gathering of all God’s people from every time and place before the throne of God. I am assuming this is a meal where calories no longer matter!

Over the past year in Women’s Ministry, we have seen many who are “hungering and thirsting” after God. We have seen larger numbers in Presbyterian Women circles, women’s Bible studies, prayer groups, and special events. Most of this growth has come from women inviting friends. Just one spark grows into a fire. Just one meal prepared feeds a crowd. Just one invitation opens up a new life filled with Christ’s life. Will you be the one that becomes many in the Kingdom of God? Multiplication!

MOPS (mothers of preschoolers)

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STRONGER TOGETHER

By Chris Woodard Men's Ministry Director, Bob Combs,and Aaron Parrot

Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church

One of the most formative times in my life came through my involvement in my seminary small group cohort. We were a group of individuals attempting a difficult task—completing the MDiv program. We quickly realized that we needed each other to accomplish this task. Individually, we were responsible for an incredible work load. Together, we were able to support and encourage each other. Looking back on that experience, I can see how God used that group to deepen my relationship with Jesus and with my friends. It was a life changing experience. Through this small group, I learned and lived out what it means to be in an authentic community. For me it was the experience that Paul shared with the people of Thessalonica, “So deeply do we care for you that we are determined to share with you not only the Gospel of God but our very lives as well because you had become so dear to us” (1 Thessalonians 2:8).

Men, our lives are difficult. We have family responsibilities, work responsibilities, friends, chores, church; the demands on our lives are endless. In this high-pressure life it is more important than ever to take time for yourself, to invest in what truly matters. In our Men’s Ministry you will find exactly that. We want to help you grow stronger, deeper and more authentic in your relationship with Jesus. We believe that as we are doing this we will become better men, better fathers, husbands, employees, employers, friends, brothers, and sons. We believe this can be accomplished through relationships with other men. Men’s Ministry is set up to help you develop deep relationships where you can find the care and support you need. It begins in our larger group opportunities; worship, social events, and Day of Discipleship. At these large group experiences, expect to meet other men and to get to know each other. In our medium-sized experiences, monthly breakfasts, work days, and retreats, expect to get to know each other on a deeper level. These experiences are opportunities to deepen relationships, pray for each other, and have fun. In our small group experiences, expect to share life together and be a real source of encouragement for one another as you grow deep, stronger and more authentic in your relationship with Jesus and each other.

Listen to what Bob Combs and Aaron Parrott have to share about their small group experience:

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Men's 3rd Tuesday Breakfasts

As our Men's Leadership Team worked on values and mission last year, one constant conversation was around what is means to be a More Authentic Christian Man and how this pursuit can be shared with men in and outside of VPC. Beginning of the Thursday Men's Small Group is a way to address this desire for the men in our community.

We meet weekly on Thursdays for lunch at ASU's Karsten Golf Course Clubhouse (go Sun Devils!). We are reading and studying James Byran Smith's first book The Good and Beautiful God, Falling In Love With the God Jesus Knows. We started November 2018 and are amazed how quickly we have come to trust one another and value each other’s experiences, perspectives, and coaching. We are diverse in so many ways, but have incredible commonality in our pursuit of becoming stronger in our relationship with God and more authentic Christian men. As a result, we have all found a very safe and non-judgmental place to be with other men that will assist us on our journey.

All of our lives are busy, seem full, and are hard to keep balanced. In other words, "My life is full I don't have the time or the energy to participate in a small group!"

Question: In sports, what's the purpose of time outs and halftime? What takes place during these? More importantly— What is the result of the break in the action?

Answer: More focus, more energy, and better results.

Our Christian journey in today's world is no different.

I'd love to talk with you to start or join a small group.

-Be well, always, Bob Combs

MentorKids USA Christmas Party

One of the first activities I participated in at VPC was the Men's Retreat in Sedona. I was blown away by the immediate acceptance and openness of the VPC men.

It felt like I had known them for years, even thought we had just met. I wanted to bring that level of openness, acceptance, encouragement, accountability, and growth into my everyday life, and I knew the best way to do that was through a small group for men. After prayer and conversations with the Men's Ministry Leadership Team, I approached a VPC friend, Eric Groen, about starting a small group. Eric agreed and we put the word out to other men. We now have six men willing to meet weekly at 6:30AM. I didn't really know what to expect, but I've been humbled by the transparency, authenticity, and encouragement of this group. We're just six normal guys trying to follow Jesus who come together to drink deeply from God's Word and encourage each other as best we can. I'm honored to be a part of this small group and wish I had stepped into this a lot sooner!!

-Aaron Parrott Wherever you are in life and with your walk with Jesus, there is a place for you in the Men’s Ministry at VPC. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me. We care about getting you plugged in to a place, experience, or relationship that works for you. You do not have to carry the demands of this life by yourself; there are other men in our community who want to live like the Thessalonians—sharing their lives with each other for that is the essence of a healthy Christian lifestyle.

-Peace my friends, Chris

Micah & Aaron Parrott

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Annual

REPORT

God was at work at VPC in 2018!

VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 2018 Annual Report

It's inspiring to take a look at all the ways VPC was able to be God's hands and feet to our congregation and community. If you haven't had a chance, take a few minutes to read the 2018 VPC Annual Report. It has interesting statistics and photos from the past year.

2018 VPC Annual Report Stats and photos that tell VPC's story.

Get a copy on campus in any worship center, in the administration office, or read online: vpc.church/annualreport

Foundation

DINNER

SAVE THE DATE! 2019 Foundation Dinner

10 Friday, March 29, 6PM, Arizona Country Club—Look for invitations coming in February!

News from

SESSION

There is no Session report from January. Look for Session updates coming next month.

Please call me with any questions or concerns.

Karen Meyer Clerk of Session 480-368-6567

OPERATIONS YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT Finances &

From the Annual Report, here is a look at the final expenses from 2018.

Kris Bahr

Finance & Operations Director 480-991-6424 ext. 112 krisb@vpc.church

We, the Pastors and Staff at VPC, feel blessed to share this time, this place, and this ministry with you. Your encouragement and energy are a beautiful and powerful response to our gracious God!

VPC finances year-to-date as of December 31, 2018 Actual $

Budget $

Christian Education

13%

Mission, Outreach, Congregational Care

10%

Pastoral Ministry

22%

Worship & Music

8%

Administration & Facility

47%

Variance $

Income Faith Giving

1,897,354

1,875,000

22,354

Other Income

368,593

500,500

-131,907

Total Income

2,265,947

2,375,500

-109,553

Expense

2018 Expenses

Pastoral Ministry

489,424

490,429

1,005

Admin & Facility

1,069,819

1,105,562

35,743

Administration & Facility

Mission, Outreach, Cong. Care

217,171

231,829

14,658

Christian Education

297,739

352,307

54,568

Pastoral Ministry

$489,424

Christian Education

$297,739

Mission, Outreach, Congregational Care

$217,171

Worship & Music

184,567

195,373

10,806

Total Expense

2,258,720

2,375,500

116,780

7,227

0

7,227

Net Income less Expense

Sunday, February 24 One Worship Service: 9:30AM, Sanctuary

Worship & Music Total expenses in 2018

$1,069,819

$184,567 $2,258,720

The Church Office will be closed Monday, February 18, in observance of Presidents' Day.

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Faithful New series Starts January 6

Learn more: vpc.church/oasis

Cost: $30 per childCOMMUNITY (before June 10),WEDNESDAYS $75 (after June 10)

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2018: SHIPWRECKED JUNE 25-29, 8:30AM-NOON For kids three years old-5th grade

vpc.church/vbs

David Joynt, David Turner, Kelly Nieto, Mike Nieto, Travis Kingma

PASTORS

8AM- Kilgore Chapel 9AM- Sanctuary 10:30AM- Landes Center

SUNDAY WORSHIP TIMES

Christmas 2018

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

Valley Presbyterian Church

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