February valley vine by Valley Presbyterian Church

valley vine

Valley Presbyterian Church February 2018 Volume sixty-three, Number one Dear friends, Risk management is central to life. The 80s and 90s of the last century saw the convergence of previously distinct financial businesses, including investment and banking and insurance. They all began to see their work as different aspects of risk management. Global leaders in politics must also become experts in assessing risk. Of all the risks facing the world, which do you think is the greatest? Global pandemics? Nuclear proliferation? Environmental catastrophe? Financial collapse? Terrorism? I believe the greatest threat is apathy.

Thanks to technological advances, we can retreat into private worlds where we are entertained and distracted. We can shop without going to the store, dine without cooking, research without libraries, visit battlefields without serving in the military, and live out fantasies without even dreaming—all from the comfort of our living rooms. It is entirely possible, and quite tempting, to stay informed and be connected continuously and yet never engage. Indifference to the problems of the world, the nation, and the neighborhood is the greatest danger—and such indifference is ultimately spiritual apathy—because we are taught to pray “Thy kingdom come, on earth as it is in heaven.” Evaluating a life, understanding a person’s story, is about discovering their passions. In our current sermon series, we are examining some of the original disciples, to sense their passions for God and his Kingdom. I am so grateful for this congregation because you are people of purpose and enthusiasm. My staff colleagues inspire and motivate me, raising my level of engagement and sharpening my focus. Invariably, during a long day or in a low energy moment, a member will share an insight or a story or an experience, and my tank is full of premium again. Thank you for all of the encouragement and for being such dedicated disciples—never underestimate the impact your presence and passion has on our entire staff and all our leaders. The world may be threatened by apathy, but you are the answer! Yours faithfully,

New Sermon Series Begins February 18 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: Coming together for global change

We as a church have the opportunity to run, walk, or ride not simply to accomplish a great feat, but for a great purpose. Through our annual Scottsdale & Paradise Valley for Africa festival we will raise funds and awareness for education in Malawi. Children there are currently walking up to 10 miles a day to get to school and teachers are riding their bikes up to 20 miles. We can help! Our financial efforts will go to build a secondary school for children in the rural area of Zomba. As an act of solidarity we will simulate these realities at the event, allowing us the opportunity to experience a day in the life of a Malawian teacher and student. This event is open for all in our community and neighborhoods; please spread the word and help us make the secondary school a reality.

Saturday, February 24, 9AM-Noon, VPC south parking lot Registration: scottsdalepv4africa.com For more information contact Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church

WHAT YOU CAN DO At Scottsdale & Paradise Valley for Africa, run or ride a child to school. It's 10 miles for them, and we want you to run or walk 10 miles, or ride 20 miles, in teams or individually. There will be a one-mile running loop and a five-mile bike loop. There are also several interactive opportunities during the event for all ages. THIS YEAR'S ROUTES Sign up today! Look for the Scottsdale & Paradise Valley for Africa reps at the Welcome Center. Volunteer opportunities are also available.

Worship @ VPC

VPC SUNDAY WORSHIP SCHEDULE

8AM 9AM 10:30AM 11:45AM

Chapel Sanctuary Landes Center Chapel

PREACHING SCHEDULE February 4* February 11 February 18 February 25

Pastor Kelly Nieto Pastor David Joynt Pastor David Joynt Pastor David Joynt

*Communion

Ash Wednesday Service February 14 6:30PM, Sanctuary Childcare available (0-2 years old) 2

New Sermon Series and Devotional begins February 18

Highlighted Events

2018 MEN'S BREAKFAST

Saturday, February 10, 8-11:30AM Orange Tree Golf Resort Tickets: $30, $15 for students Get tickets online: vpc.church/men

church@vpc.church

God is my Co-Pilot

JULIA TUCKER IN CONCERT A Two-Organ Recital Sunday, February 25, 4PM Chapel & Sanctuary, Free

ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE Wednesday, February 14 6:30PM, Sanctuary

LENTEN LAUNCH

Sunday, February 11, 4:30-6:30PM Landes Center, $10 donation RSVP to Tina: tinag@vpc.church Get started with Lent as a community

Mission & Service

Chris Woodard, Mission Director: chrisw@vpc.church

God can forever change your heart When I was fifteen years old my heart was forever changed. I took a risk and went on a mission trip to inner-city LA, and God did something amazing in my life. The first evening we went on a prayer tour around the city and through Skid Row. I remember feeling like I was in another world and my heart was completely shattered. In the ensuing week, through the people I met and the ministry we performed, God put my heart back together; however it was a different heart. It was a heart that was open to the world. It was a heart that saw people how God sees them. It is a heart that wants people to know the redeeming love of Christ. This summer join us for a mission trip, take a risk and let God forever change your heart. If you've ever been curious about any of VPC's Mission Trip opportunities, give me a call.

-Chris Woodard

Connect One of the best things I hear visitors say about our church is that we are a very welcoming congregation. Hospitality is such an important attribute for a healthy church to have and it begins with each of us. When we smile and welcome visitors onto our campus we are extending Christ’s love and joy to them in a very tangible and important way. That excitement is contagious as I’m sure many of our newest members can tell you. Please join me in welcoming Gus Armendariz, Wyatt and Brenna Batchelor, Andrew and Jennifer Brigham, Mal and Linda Dunlevie, Eric and Andrea Groen, Ron Hilton, Patrick and Nicole Knauer, Mike and Pam Merryman, Brent Nichols, Sharma Torrens, and Sandra West.

Saturday, February 24, 2018 9AM-Noon, VPC South Parking Lot Scottsdale & Paradise Valley for Africa is a unique opportunity to join with the local community to accomplish real and long-lasting change in Malawi.

Family Promise

February 25-March 4 Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church Family Promise families will be spending the night at VPC starting February 25. If you would like to host, make a meal, or spend the night, contact Chris.

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.

Pastor Mike Nieto: miken@vpc.church VPC is a growing community

Next Inquirer Class

Scottsdale & Paradise Valley for Africa

Sunday, April 8, 2018 12:30-2:30PM, Fireside Room Register: vpc.church/connect Is it time for you to make a commitment and become a member of VPC? We welcome you to come learn more about how our community can serve you and how you can make an impact in our community.

Community Groups Information visit: vpc.church/community_groups

Do you want to grow deeper in relationship with Jesus while you connect with other Christians? Our small groups meet at various times throughout the month to study God’s word and encourage each other to live it out loud.

20-30s: Chris Woodard, chrisw@vpc.church

Wednesdays, 7PM, Youth Room Lunch after church, February 4 Dinner at Chris and Brianna's, February 15, 6:30PM

30-40s: Tina Gilbreath, tinag@vpc.church

Watch for upcoming social and service projects on website.

40-50s: David Turner, davidt@vpc.church Sundays, 9-10AM, Room 409 Bible study, social events, and service projects.

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 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 February 1: Mexican Train & Meatloaf, 3-5PM, Fireside Room Lunch Bunch: February 15, 11:30AM, Camelback Golf Club Cardmaking: February 8, 3PM, Fireside Room

Children & Families

Tina Gilbreath, Family Ministry Director: tinag@vpc.church

Family Traditions

It’s February, the month of love! Years ago when our kids were little and babysitters were hard to come by on February 14, we started a tradition of a special family dinner on Valentines. Over the years we have had everything from spaghetti to fondue, and of course always finished with a special dessert! We have enjoyed the time together, time to remind our children how much they are loved by us and their heavenly father. If you don’t have a family Valentine’s tradition there are so many great ideas online. This year Ash Wednesday falls on Valentine’s Day. Though typically a very contemplative somber service, with a little conversation beforehand it can be more accessible to children. For younger children you can emphasize that it is the beginning of a journey to Easter when we celebrate all that Jesus has done for us.

EXPLORERS! Tuesdays, 4-5PM (doors open at 3:45PM) Kids ages K-5th grade: vpc.church/explorers

Register today! 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; 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.

Family Workshop-4th grade Families Serve

February 11, 10:30AM*, Room 415/416 *following the children’s message Join us as we talk about serving together and how that fits with being a disciple of Christ.

Lenten Launch

February 11, 4:30-6:30PM, Landes Center RSVP: Tina $10 donation suggested Join us for a night of fellowship, food and fun with other families. Help build part of the Lenten Set in Landes and participate in prayer stations as a family!

For more ideas on celebrating Lent as a family join us at Lenten Launch! Contact Tina with any questions. -Tina Gilbreath

Students

Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church SUMMER CAMP SUMMER CAMP SUMMER CAMP

‘Souper’ Bowl Sunday Fundraiser for Youth Mission trips February 4, following the 9 & 10:30AM worship

Summer Camp! Some of my fondest memories growing up are from summer camp. Truthfully, as an adult, camp memories are the best! Camp is a great time to get away from the craziness of life to retreat with friends and make new ones. It is a time to have fun and create lasting memories. It is a time to grow in relationships with each other and with Jesus. I am pumped for camp and I hope you are as well. Join us for another awesome experience at Forest Home. Deadline to sign up is March 4.

Stop by the table outside worship to purchase some baked goods for your Super Bowl party. All proceeds go to Student Summer Mission Trips.

At this year’s ScottsdalePV4Africa we are stepping up our game and accepting the 10 team challenge. It is our hope that we can create 10 teams that will participate in the fun run and fun ride. As an added bonus any money we raise to help build the school will be matched-our dollars are doubled!! Come for fun and have a global impact as we ensure education for our friends in Malawi.

Forest Home Summer Camp June 10-15, 2018 Sign up: At Student Gatherings or email Tina Gilbreath: tinag@vpc.church

-Chris Woodard

ScottsdalePV4Africa Join or create a youth walk, run or bike team February 24, 9AM-Noon, South parking lot Student ministries is planning to have 10 teams participate in the fun run and/or bike ride to support this event and the communities in Africa that benefit from it.

Junior High and High School students are invited to join the fun. Don’t miss out on our annual trek to California for camp. Cost $500. A $150 deposit to secure your spot is due by March 4.

Learn & Grow

Pastor Kelly Nieto: kellyn@vpc.church

Learn, grow, and get to know each other Have you had a chance to join a Wednesday night study class? Most Wednesday nights during the year, the Discipleship and Spiritual Growth ministries offer classes. It is a great opportunity to learn, to grow, and to get to know each other. In the Spring, we will be offering a Lent Soup and Study on the transforming power of the cross, a study on Dietrich Bonhoeffer with Dr. Carter of Fuller Seminary, and the Love and Logic parenting class with Larry Kerby. We pray that these times of learning will be moments of transformation, giving each of us a moment of respite from the busyness of our lives to focus on how Jesus Christ calls us to live as disciples. Take some of those moments with us and the church family at VPC on Wednesday nights! -Pastor Kelly Nieto

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 Kerber The ability to discipline children while developing their understanding of personal responsibility and self-control is a key element of successful parenting. This class will teach you how to help your children take ownership of problems, make more responsible choices, and see the logical consequences of their actions!

Encore University

Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me: Preparing Your Heart for Lent*

Soup & Study, Wednesdays, February 21-March 21 6-7:30PM, Fireside Room, Free Facilitators: Beth & Ed Glady Registration & childcare: vpc.church/classes In Matthew 16:24, Jesus tells his disciples (and us) those who want to be His disciples must deny themselves, take up their crosses, and follow Him. We will examine and seek to apply what Jesus is saying (and not saying) in this statement of purpose as we travel through Lent to the foot of the cross Christ picked up. Delicious homemade soup and salad will be served every night of class free of charge. Please join us on a journey that will be challenging – but rewarding – as we strive to be the disciples Christ seeks for his holy purposes.

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.

MOPS

eu@vpc.church

Encore Class Highlight:

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS)

Exegetical Economics, Faith and Wealth

Come join us for our Spring dates! It's not too late to join!

Facilitator: Bill McKee

Bill McKee

Wednesdays, 2:30-4PM Room 415-416 March 21, April 4 & 11

Bill McKee is a long-time VPC member with a bright and captivating persona who, combined with his love of the Lord, will lecture on Exegetical Economics, Faith and Wealth. Don’t let those big words scare you! Bill will bring the Bible's wisdom and truth to a discussion of how to deal with the growing disparities of today’s wealth and what God has to say about it. -Becky Bennett, Curriculum Coordinator Register today for Spring Term-Classes are filling fast! March 6-April 12 (no classes March 25-31) Shelby Trimaloff: shelbyt@vpc.church or encoreuniv.org

Mid-Week Chapel January 25 and February 22 12:30-12:55PM A mid-week time of contemplation reflecting on new beginnings. Chris Woodard and Pastor Turner will lead these opportunities for worship and renewal.

Molly Livak: mollyl@vpc.church

February 9 & 23 March 9 & 23 April 6 & 20 May 4

9-11AM, Room 415/416

If you are a new mom, haven’t had a chance to attend a meeting yet, or just want to come see what our group is about you are welcome! Start your 2018 off right and join us on Fridays!

-Molly Livak

Men’s Ministry

Chris Woodard, Men’s Ministry Director: chrisw@vpc.church

God has a plan for each of us When I graduated college I was somewhat rudderless, but I knew I wanted to live on a beach. I packed up my belongings and moved to Huntington Beach to try and navigate life. For a while I leaned on my own ability and created a nice little life, however I felt a lack of purpose. I am thankful that during that time God re-awoke His purpose in my life. God had an incredible plan for me and I simply needed to live into it. I listened to God, acted on faith and packed up my belongings and headed back to my hometown to begin my ministry journey. I am thankful that God has a plan for each of us and we simply need to listen, trust and act. At this year’s Men’s Breakfast we are going to look deeper into God’s direction in our lives. I will see you there. -Chris Woodard

Habitat for Humanity Build Day Saturday, February 3

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.

Women’s Ministry Part of God's Plan Last year, the women of VPC gathered in Prescott, Arizona for a weekend of worship, fellowship, and fun. 43 women joined us at the Marriot Residence Inn! This year, the Women’s Retreat is FridaySunday, April 20-22. Ele Parrott will join us as our speaker, sharing with us from God’s word about the tremendous power of learning and growing together as women and how God calls each one of us to a specific mission. We will share meals together, and of course, some time around the fire! Mark your calendars and watch for registration coming in February.

Men's Breakfast : God is My Co-Pilot Saturday, February 10, 8-11:30AM Orange Tree Golf Resort Tickets: $30, $15 for students Get tickets online: vpc.church/men

Men often feel like they have to face life on their own without assistance or aid. This year’s breakfast will feature speakers who will talk about life in good and stormy weather, with God beside us regardless. Speakers:

 Ted Taylor-Executive Director of Family Promise of Greater Phoenix, a homeless shelter for families located in south Scottsdale.  Judge James A. Teilborg-U.S. District Court judge since 2000. Retired from the United States Air Force Reserve as a Colonel. He has flown for more than 50 years. He practiced law from 1967 until taking the bench in 2000. While in practice, Judge Teilborg formed a successful law firm that continues to thrive today.  Brigadier General Terrence Woods-The (retired) Air Force General is a practicing attorney with the firm in Phoenix. He holds an AV rating with Martindale-Hubbell and is listed in the The Best Lawyers in America. He served as Judge of the Arizona Court of Military Appeals from 1997 to 2013.  Captain David Shepherd-Recently retired pilot from Southwest Airlines, but continues to fly on his own. Captain Shepherd is a longtime member of VPC and has served the church in a multiplicity of roles, bringing the attitude and skills that served him so well in the cockpit to the needs of VPC.

Third Tuesday of the Month Breakfast February 20, 6:30AM 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.

Kelly Nieto, Pastor: kellyn@vpc.church Women’s Bible Study*

Fridays, 9-10:30AM, February 2 & 16, March 2, April 13 & 27 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. This Spring 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)

PW Circles Tuesday, February 13 Mary: 9:30AM, Westminster Village Saguaro Room Wednesday, February 14 Esther: 10AM, Audrey Davis' home, 451-520-6405 Lydia: 9:30AM, Calvin Center Sarah: Noon, Room 409

This spring, we will also have our annual Women’s Progressive Dinner on Sunday, March 11, along with PW Luncheon and Program Women’s Bible Study every other Friday and the monthly February 28, 11:30AM, Landes Center, Cost: $10 Presbyterian Women circles and luncheons! RSVP: 480-991-6424 by February 23 -Pastor Kelly Nieto Program: Jennifer Hamm & Julia Joynt The Wonderful Jennifer & Julia will bring us a joyful program SAVE THE DATE: of love songs and music of the “Season of Love.” It’s the time Women’s Progressive Dinner: Sunday, March 11 of Valentines!

Women’s Retreat: Friday-Sunday, April 20-22 The Residence Inn by Marriot, Prescott, AZ

PW White Elephant Spring Sale- Proceeds benefit missions Friday, April 6, 7AM-4PM 7 Saturday, April 7, 8AM-Noon

Care & Support

Pastor David Turner: davidt@vpc.church

What is Deacon Sunday? Deacon Sunday is a day that we can recognize and say “thank you” to the many men and women who faithfully serve quietly behind the scenes. By visiting the sick, providing meals to the hungry, expressing appreciation to our staff, preparing communion, visiting the lonely, providing rides to church, performing small household help, celebrating with the birth of our little ones, and providing financial help for those in need, Deacons are a vital component of VPC's ministry. Deacons serve not for the recognition, but because they’ve felt God calling them to this ministry, and often continue to serve long after they’re no longer an active Deacon. Deacon Sunday is March 4, our theme is, A Day in the Life of… We will tell the story of the ministry of the Deacons. Also, because the Deacons have a ministry of service, what better way to demonstrate that serving heart than to serve communion to us in all four worship services. I hope you attend worship on this special day and express your appreciation to one of the Deacons. -Pastor David Turner

Remembrances Our church family extends its Christian sympathy to the family and friends of Donovan Akins, Hap Brahms, John Gorder, James Irvin, Mary Long, Bill Mack, Hamilton McRae, Charlotte Phillips, Ruth Rehfeldt, and Marjory Terrey.

Mental Health

Elizabeth Weiss: esweiss@gmail.com

NAMI Basics

February 10, 17, & 24, 8:30AM-2PM, Room 409 NAMI Basics is a free, educational program designed for parents and other family caregivers of children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral difficulties. NAMI Basics helps parents and other family caregivers understand the illnesses that are causing those behavioral difficulties, and the critical role family play in the treatment of those illnesses.

NAMI Family to Family

Tuesday, February 13-April 30, Calvin Center 6-8:30PM NAMI Family to Family is a free, 12 week class for family, partners, and friends of adults living with a serious mental illness. This class is designed to help family members and friends understand and support their loved one living with mental illness while maintaining their own well-being. The program is taught by trained teachers who are also family members and know what it is like to have a loved one living with mental illness.

NAMI classes registration required: Dawn Dibbern, namimaricopaedu@gmail.com or 602-759-8182

Divorce Recovery Program

Mondays through March 19 (no class February 19) 5:30-6:45PM, Chapel Parlor, Cost: $20 Registration: vpc.church/divorcerecovery or Tammy Milne at tammym@vpc.church Facilitator: Anna Kohls, Masters in Marital and Family Therapy and a Masters in Education Seven-week Divorce Recovery Program designed for men and women at any stage of the divorce process. Registration required. Program is open to all in our community, so please share this information with friends who are ready to take the next step in their journey. If you’d like more information contact Pastor David Turner: 480-991-6424 ext. 121.

Grief Support

Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30PM, Chapel Parlor, Free Facilitator: Shirley Polk Registration: vpc.church/grief Please join us if you need help navigating the grieving process. This discussion-based class is designed to give you tools to recover and to hope again.

Grief Share

Wednesdays, February 28-May 23, 1-2:50PM, Chapel Parlor, Free Facilitator: Karen Annis Registration: vpc.church/grief or Tammy Milne, tammym@vpc.church 13-week Grief Share program is a combination of DVD presentations, workbook and discussion time. We believe recovery doesn't come from knowledge, but from Christian hope, personal support and emotional release.

In Our Own Voice-Mental Health Workshop

Saturday, February 10, 9-11AM, Fireside Room Register by February 6: Tammy Milne, tammym@vpc.church Join VPC’s Mental Health Ministry representatives for a light breakfast and presentation by Terry McDermott, Peer Group Coordinator from NAMI Valley of the Sun. Do you have a family member, friend, co-worker or acquaintance living with mental illness? Do you believe in the power of HOPE? Presenters will walk you through their journey to recovery.

NAMI-Family Support Group

1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 6-7:30PM, St. Patrick Catholic Community Information: vpc.church/mentalhealth or namivalleyofthesun.org

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 Lifting your gifts in song

If you’ve attended one of our traditional services in the Sanctuary or Chapel since September, then you are familiar with our new organist, Julia Tucker. Julia also worships occasionally in the 10:30AM service, so maybe you’ve had a chance to meet her there. Julia’s musical talent and creativity is superb and I am thrilled that she brings so much life to our worship services. Now, you get a chance to hear Julia in concert, playing different styles of organ music on both of our beautiful instruments. Here is what Julia wrote about her upcoming recital... "At Valley Presbyterian Church we are very fortunate to have two instruments on our campus, the Rosales tracker organ in the chapel and the large Reuter organ in the sanctuary. Both of these instruments have distinct character, so I have decided to feature both of them in my recital on February 25. The first half of the program will be in the Chapel, and the second half will be in the Sanctuary. The program will be eclectic, featuring a variety of styles and French, German and American composers. Without giving away too much, I will hint that there is one piece that is sure to 'stir up a storm!'"

Organ Recital Julia Tucker, organist

Sunday, February 25, 4PM, Chapel and Sanctuary Free Will Offering Don't miss our talented Julia Tucker performing on the Chapel’s Rosales organ and the Sanctuary’s Reuter organ.

Valley Ringers Handbell Choir Rehearsal Wednesdays 5:30-6:15PM, Handbell Room Julia Tucker, Director

Youth Choir Rehearsal Wednesdays 6:15-7PM, Choir Room

Chancel Choir Rehearsal

Wednesdays, 7:30PM, Choir Room 7:30-8:30PM, Choir Room

- Jennifer Hamm

Valley Day School

Meghan Gottfredson, Day School Director: meghang@vpc.church

2018-2019 Preschool Year enrollment begins February 5 A new year. The chance to start fresh. These are the things I treasure about January and February. The busyness of the holiday season has passed, and I haven’t yet filled up all of the space in my new calendar. It feels good to look at those empty squares. This year, I’m intentionally planning for blank space. I’m saying yes to the most meaningful things and no to the rest. I’m scheduling time each day to be in prayer, and I’m carving out more time to spend with my husband and young children. I’m going to run my calendar instead of the other way around. How will you schedule your time in 2018? Valley Day School is currently looking for a pianist who may want to volunteer and play along during our Tuesday and/or Wednesday morning Chapel each week from 11:15-11:30AM. If you enjoy playing and have a little blank space on your calendar this spring, please contact us. We’d love to share in your time and talent! Valley Day School is also registering students for the 20182019 preschool year - now through February 20. Tours are available by appointment. Please stop by the preschool office for official enrollment forms, and email Meghan with any questions. -Meghan Gottfredson

Class information Classes are available for children age one (and walking) to age five. The school day is 9AM-Noon, days of the week vary depending on your age/class schedule. Early Bird and Lunch Bunch programs are available for potty trained children. Valley Day School monthly enrollment costs: Sunshine Room (1 Year Old strong walkers & 30 months by Aug. 1) M, T, or W classes ($95-$275 per month) T/TH 2 Year Old Classes – $215 per month T/TH 3 Year Old Classes - $215 per month MWF 3 Year Old Classes - $275 per month MWF 4 Year Old Classes - $275 per month 4 Day Class (M-TH) – 4 & 5 year olds - $335 per month 5 Day Class (M-F) – Oldest 4 & 5 year olds - $395 per month

Foundation

Charlee Turner, Foundation Administrator: charleet@vpc.church Join us for the Valley Presbyterian Foundation Dinner in March!

Being the dinner chair for the annual Foundation dinner is a true honor. This event is so much more than a dinner. The evening is full of fellowship, fundraising, food and festivities. As a church we get to connect on a different level, maybe even on the dance floor. I like to think of the night as a really big dinner for eight where nobody has to do the dishes and everybody can participate. Our Roaring Twenties theme will jazz up the evening while our auction items are sure to please. I cannot wait to celebrate the end of prohibition with our amazing congregation. Get your tickets because this party will be the bees knees. -Amy Greer

Learn more about this great annual event and purchase tickets online: vpc.church/dinner Cost: $125 per ticket

TIME, TALENT, & TREASURE church@vpc.church VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES @ VPC We are accepting donations for the Spring Sale! Saturdays, February 3 & 17, 9-11AM Cooks’ Tour Shed, Lynetta Norris: ljoynorris@aol.com Donate your old treasures to support mission needs in our community. Cooks’ Tour is collecting items as they prepare for the Spring Sale. No large furniture or TVs. Have items you would otherwise donate to Goodwill or Red Cross? Drop them off here instead! White Elephant Spring Sale, April 6-7, 2018.

Family Promise

Church Office phone receptionist

Kris Bahr: krisb@vpc.church Four-hour shifts available Monday-Friday. In need of substitutes. No experience necessary. Training provided. For more information contact Kris.

6PM Coming in March... Encore University Spring Term

Register today for Spring Term-Classes are filling fast! March 6-April 12 (no classes March 25-31) Shelby Trimaloff: shelbyt@vpc.church or encoreuniv.org Encore University offers a variety of courses on subjects including art history and application, world history, Bible study, science and technology, games, culinary and more. The goal of Encore University is to build new relationships, foster a sense of community, study scripture and to have fun experiencing ‘Adventures in Lifelong Learning’.

Women's Ministry Progressive Dinner

Sunday, March 11, 4-6PM, VPC Campus, Free RSVP to Kelly: kellyn@vpc.church Appetizers, Entrée, Dessert, and Fun!! This women’s event is an opportunity to spend time with one another and make a donation to the scholarship fund for the Women’s Retreat.

Foundation Dinner: Roaring Twenties Friday, March 23, 6PM, Arizona Country Club Tickets: vpc.church/dinner Cost: $125 each

Browse the silent auction during our cocktail hour, keep an eye on the eye-popping sport packages, art, jewelry, and the ever-popular wine raffle. Enjoy a meal by the amazing staff at The Arizona Country Club and take a chance with the balloon raffle- there are incredible prizes you can win! The live auction never disappoints. Take part in the most important portion of the night, Fund The Need, to fund important various needs of our mission partners.

VPC Leadership News From Session

At a Special Session Meeting on January 9, Session confirmed that 2017 ended with a surplus of net income of approximately $100,000. Income equaled the amount budgeted but expenses were well below budget. The Session passed a motion to dedicate 50% of the surplus to a dedicated account, “Session Reserve Fund,” and 50% to a Mission dedicated account, “Prior Year’s Carryforward.” This will enable the Mission Committee to continue its important outreach while allowing Session to have a cushion for the Operating Budget in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

The Session reviewed the Terms of Call for the Pastors; the Congregation will vote on them at the Annual Meeting. Finally, there was a time of Gratitude for the retiring Elders: Mary Artigue, Laurena Ketzel-Kerber, Ed Glady, Darrah MacDougall, Roy Schumacher and Janel Willert.

Session adopted a balanced budget for 2018 with income of $2,375,500 and expense of $2,375,500 (subject to line item modification while maintaining a zero balance budget). Phase I of the Master Plan, “A New Heart for the Valley”, will launch in mid-February. The hope is to raise enough funds by Easter to enable VPC to do a substantial part of Phase I. Pastor Keith Kerber, who has been hired for a few months to coordinate the campaign, spoke to Session about his plans and discussed how Elders could help .

I have been a member since we moved to the Valley in 2004. In my time here, I have been a choir member and am an ordained Stephen Minister. I have served on various committees such as the All-Church Nominating Committee and the Stewardship Committee. I look forward to applying my knowledge of the church in my role as an elder.

At the January Session Meeting, a motion was passed to revise the Job Description for Pastor Mike Nieto, naming him Associate Pastor of Visitation. This replaces his prior position as Associate Pastor and Director of Encore University.

As always, please contact me if you have any questions or concerns. -Blessings, Karen Gill Meyer, Clerk of Session

Leader Spotlight Elder Michele Ingram Worship Committee Chair

Visit VPC Session page! vpc.church/session