valley vine
Valley Presbyterian Church June/July 2018 Volume sixty-three, Number five
Dear friends,
Jesus is the greatest teacher of all time. The unique power of his teaching was immediately evident from the outset of his ministry. During his first moment of instruction in Capernaum, Mark describes the reaction of his synagogue audience: “They were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as someone with authority…” Authority and accessibility marked his pedagogy. He used images and pictures drawn from ordinary life, and he told dramatic stories that revealed profound truths about life and about God. But sometimes his teaching was met with skepticism, confusion, or hostility. This reaction is neatly summed up in John 6 where some of Jesus’ disciples respond to his words by saying: “This teaching is hard! Who can accept it?!” (John 6:60) Our summer series will explore this “Other Jesus,” who issued what some have called “hard sayings.”
It is important for us to come to terms with these more difficult teachings because in doing so we avoid a classic error—selective appreciation. The easiest way to distort our discipleship is to follow only those aspects of his teachings that are already congenial to us and to our cultural instincts. But this means Jesus cannot challenge us! We end up following a teacher who simply reinforces our existing viewpoints, rather than a Lord who reveals unexpected and often counterintuitive information. So whether you are going to be here in person, or you are following online at vpc.church from your home or vacation location, be ready to wrestle with some of Jesus’ deepest teachings. May we grow this summer in our faith and understanding! Yours in Christ,
The hard sayings of Jesus 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: A New Heart for the Valley Capital Campaign
The generosity of VPC is astounding! Thank you to the 182 families (and about 30 children) who have given or pledged nearly $5,900,000 in support of the A New Heart for the Valley (ANHFTV) Capital Campaign. The million-dollar gift from the VPC Foundation brings the total committed to nearly $7,000,000. We are more than halfway toward our goal of $12.5M! Are you still considering a commitment toward this transformative plan? I am confident we can reach our goal if each of us can make a contribution. When renovations are complete, you’ll be proud to say you were part of making ANHFTV a reality! Recently someone asked me for a pledge form. He said although he could not give much, after hearing about ANHFTV and seeing the renderings on Sunday, he wanted to be a part of this amazing plan. Commitments to ANHFTV can be sent to the church office, placed in offering plates during worship, or online at vpc.church/anewheart (select COMMIT). A New Heart for the Valley by the numbers: 1: Number of Legacy gifts and properties donated to the campaign 3: Age of the youngest donor 14: Number of nonagenarian donors; they have committed $112,700! 24: Percent of donors age 70-79; the best participating decade! 36: Number of months (3 years) over which a pledge to ANHV can be paid 98: Age of the oldest donor 100: Percent of Session Elders & Pastors who have made a commitment ($648,000 total) 182: Total number of donor households to date 900+: Approximate number of member households who are praying about giving Questions or concerns? Please contact me, Keith Kerber, keithk@vpc.church, or (480) 991-6424. For more information: vpc.church/anewheart
Worship @ VPC SUNDAY SCHEDULE
8AM 9AM 10:30AM
PREACHING SCHEDULE
Chapel June 3* Sanctuary June 10
Pastor David Joynt July 1* Pastor Keith Kerber July 8
Pastor David Turner Pastor David Joynt
Landes Center June 17 June 24
Pastor David Joynt July 15 Pastor David Joynt July 22 July 29
Pastor David Joynt Pastor Kelly Nieto Chris Woodard
Note: 11:45AM Service on Summer Break
*Communion Sanctuary Balcony and Transept closed June 3-July 29
SUMMER SUNDAY SCHOOL
JUNE 3-AUGUST 5
Kids 3 years old through entering 1st grade. Kids entering 2nd grade and up are invited to stay in worship. We welcome this time for parents to model participation in worship.
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FAMILY WORSHIP SUNDAYS AUGUST 12* During the summer we are excited to have all ages present in worship. *Childcare available for kids 0-2
(9 & 10:30AM services)
FALL SUNDAY SCHOOL STARTS AUGUST 19 Fall Sunday School begins on August 19.
Highlighted Events
church@vpc.church
Jesus Speaks:
The Seven Churches of Revelation
JESUS SPEAKS: The Seven Churches of Revelation
Wednesdays, June 6-July 25, 6:30-7:30PM, Calvin Center, free 2,000 years after this book was written, we can learn what Jesus still asks of us as we prepare for His return!
lunches Cupcakes by you!
SUMMER LUNCHES
Sunday, June 10 & July 8
11:45AM, Landes Center, Free Join us after the 10:30AM service for good food and great people.
WOMEN’S MINISTRY: CUPCAKES BY YOU!*
Wednesday, June 20, 6-7:30PM, Fireside Room RSVP to Shelby by June 13: shelbyt@vpc.church Join us as we decorate adorable cupcakes for your next birthday party or event. *Childcare available by reservation (0-5): nursery@vpc.church
SHIPWRECKED: Vacation Bible School 2018
Monday, June 25-Friday, June 29, 8:30AM-Noon
Cost: $30 per child (through June 10), $75 per child after June 10 Join kids three years old through fifth grade on a courageous and captivating quest this summer!
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Mission & Service Sharing the Gospel of God Thank you for your prayers for our Yucatan Mission Team and Malawi Mission Team that are heading out this summer. As I am preparing our teams for these incredible ministry moments I considered Jesus' mission strategy. Jesus would simply go on a walk in his neighborhood, town, or surrounding area and engage with people. Jesus was led by His heart and eyes which allowed Him to see and understand the hurts and needs of the people. The mission strategy of Jesus forces us to consider our own areas of influence and familiarity. Every day we have the opportunity to engage with people and come alongside them in their life journey. It is an opportunity to get to know them on a deeper level, to love and encourage them. And through those moments of ministry the Gospel of God is being opened up to others. It is my hope that all of you can one day visit with our friends in Malawi, Mexico, Tuba City, and around the world, but it is also my hope and prayer that we continue to look for opportunities in our own lives to be the Jesus that people need. (Matthew 22:39) -Chris Woodard
Connect
Chris Woodard, Mission Director: chrisw@vpc.church Yucatan Mission Trip: May 26-June 4 Malawi Mission Trip: July 9-24 Please keep our teams in your prayers.
MentorKids USA Summer Camp Opportunities all summer Volunteers needed. If interested contact Chris.
Soccer Summer Camp with Coronado High School June 18-21, 6:30-8:30PM, Pinnacle Church
As our presence network in the Paiute neighborhood with MentorKids is growing. We have been invited to help with the South Scottsdale Soccer Camp, hosted by Pinnacle Church and the soccer team from Coronado High School. The Coronado team will coach and train the children while we help with registration, food prep; making sure everyone is having fun safely. This is a great opportunity to meet new friends and develop relationships with people from our new Paiute Promise Neighborhood. Contact Chris.
Cooks' Tour White Elephant Donation Collections Saturdays, June 2 & 16, July 7 & 21, August 4 & 18 8-10AM, Landes Center west doors Jan Cooper: jan1stamper@yahoo.com
Cooks’ Tour 2018 and the 2019 PW Spring Sale are collecting great items. Have items you would otherwise donate to Goodwill or Red Cross? Drop them off here instead!
Mike Nieto, Pastor: miken@vpc.church Invite a friend Summer is a time for refreshment and rest and relaxation. As the days grow longer and people have more time on their hands, why not consider inviting someone to attend a service with you?
As we move into our summer worship schedule, please consider coming early or staying after one of the services to meet a new friend. VPC is truly a wonderful and welcoming place, let’s not make it the best kept secret in town! As always, we are here to serve and pray with you at any time, so please don’t hesitate to reach out. -Pastor Mike Nieto
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 throughout the month to study God’s word.
20-30s: Chris Woodard, chrisw@vpc.church Lunch after church, contact Chris for dates.
30-40s: Tina Gilbreath, tinag@vpc.church On summer break. See you in August!
40-50s: Ed Glady, edward.glady@sandersparks.com
June 9: Tropical Party at the Gladys. 6-10PM Bring a tropical side dish or dessert. June 24: Feed My Starving Children, Mesa, 7- 9PM Volunteer to pack food followed by dinner at a nearby restaurant. Children 5 y.o. and older invited with an adult. July 20-22: Weekend in the cool pines, Heber, AZ A weekend retreat in a large, beautiful cabin with lots of room (and fun!) for all. Contact: Beth, beglady@gmail.com
50-60s: Debbie Sayre, dsayreoh@yahoo.com On summer break.
60s-70s: Judith Robins, az29hiker@msn.com On summer break.
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lunches
SUNDAYS, JUNE 10 & JULY 8 11:45AM LANDES CENTER, FREE
70s+: Wandie Hulick, wild4uofa@aol.com
Sundays, 10:30-11:30AM, Calvin Center June 7 & July 5: Mexican Train, 1-3PM, Fireside Room Lunch Bunch: June 21 & July 19, 11:30AM, Camelback Golf Club
Children & Families
Tina Gilbreath, Family Ministry Director: tinag@vpc.church
Vacation Bible School (VBS) Vacation Bible School touches almost 200 children every summer! Over one third of those children come from families without a church home. Please join to pray that all children who join us for VBS will see and experience Christ’s love in a personal way.
Summer Sunday School June 3-August 8 during 9 and 10:30AM services, Room 404 Children 3 y.o. through entering 1st grade are invited to attend our special summer Sunday School. Our regular teachers will take some well-deserved time off in the summer. If you would like to help out in one of our Summer Sunday School classes, please contact Marie at marieb@vpc.church.
This is an opportunity for our whole church family to come together and support reaching the children in our community. If you would like to get involved there are jobs big and small, with kids and behind the scenes, before and during VBS. Check out our Wall of Needs in each of the worship centers for prayer, volunteer, and donation requests. Our decorating team has already started, if you’d like to help transform our campus into a deserted island there is always room for more hands! Other jobs include craft prep, snack prep, greeters, volunteer appreciation, and of course we need plenty of volunteers to connect to help shepherd the kids all week. Contact Tina or Marie, marieb@vpc.church, to get involved. -Tina Gilbreath
Shipwrecked: Rescued by Jesus Vacation Bible School 2018 Monday-Friday, June 25-29, 8:30AM-Noon vpc.church/vbs Check out VPC website to volunteer or register today!
Save the Date: Blessing of the Backpacks Sunday, August 12 9 & 10:30AM worship services Summer Lunch Kickoff 11:45AM, Landes Center
Students
Travis Kingma, Student Ministry Director: travisk@vpc.church Let's go!
School is out, the plans are set, and we are ready for an amazing summer! From camp at Forest Home, to mission trips in Phoenix and Denver, Student Ministry is excited for everything this summer has to offer. Plenty of special events (i.e. pool party, dodgeball tournament, ‘Where’s Waldo?,’ laser tag & Night Splash) to volunteer opportunities (VBS). There is lots to do! In addition, and more importantly, our hope is that we can dive deeper in our walk with Christ. Specifically, this summer we are going to take an in-depth look at the two most important commandments as told by Jesus in Matthew 22:37–39. Our students will discover a new, practical way to love God, to find out who their neighbor is, and learn to understand who they are—and why all that is important. We are thrilled for what lies ahead in these coming months. Please pray for our students to have the best summer ever! -Travis Kingma
Drivers & Chaperones Needed July 9-13 Middle School students will be serving local non-profits in the mornings and having scheduled fun activities in the afternoon (non-sleep-over week). To help drive or chaperone/participate contact Travis.
Volunteers Needed Do you love God and like students? Then we need you! We are looking for new volunteers for our Middle and High School ministries starting this fall. Contact Travis for more info.
First Sunday Morning Gathering August 19, 9AM, Landes Basement Stay posted for scheduling announcements regarding fall Midweek and other special events to come!
Forest Home (FOHO) Summer Camp: June 10-15, CA Middle School Mission Trip: July 9-13, Phoenix, AZ High School Mission Trip: July 14-21, Denver, CO
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Learn & Grow
Kelly Nieto, Pastor: kellyn@vpc.church
The Seven Churches When I was in college, I went to a weekend retreat focusing on the seven churches mentioned in the book of Revelation. At the end of the retreat, the leader handed around a bag and asked us to pull out a piece of paper. On the paper was a name of one of the churches, and she asked us to take a moment and pray about what may be going on in our life similar to the name of the church we had picked. I honestly don’t remember the name of the church I picked, but I remember being disappointed. I wanted to be Philadelphia. Jesus had no suggestions for the church at Philadelphia-only praise! Of course, each one of us resembles one of the churches at different times of our lives. The words to these seven churches were meant for Christians of all time. Come and find out what the message is for us today at the Summer Bible Study! -Pastor Kelly Nieto
Summer Bible Study Jesus Speaks: The Seven Churches of Revelation Wednesdays, June 6-July 25 (no class July 4) 6:30-7:30PM, Calvin Center, Free Registration: vpc.church/classes In the first chapters of the book of Revelation, John receives a specific message from Jesus for seven different churches in Asia Minor. Each of those churches had different characters, strengths, and weaknesses. Even two thousand years later, we as the church can learn what Jesus still asks of us as we prepare for His future return!
House of Prayer vpc.church/hop House of Prayer is a powerful ministry at VPC. This ministry prays for everyone at VPC each day. We hope you'll join us in praying for 5-7 people. Questions? Email Kelly.
RightNow Media If you aren't using RightNow Media, email Pastor Kelly for an invite! Over 10,000 videos and Bible studies for kids and adults are completely free. Access to this great resource is provided to you for free by VPC.
COMING WEDNESDAYS, FALL 2018
VPC is excited to announce a re-imagining of Wednesday evenings. Discipleship classes are still being offered during their typical time frame, Student Ministry is moving Middle and High School Midweek programs, and Oasis Kids (formerly Explorers!) will move to Wednesdays. Each week we will also have a FOOD TRUCK with delicious affordable options for you and your family.
Look for more details coming soon!
Community Wednesdays 6
Men’s Ministry
Chris Woodard, Men’s Ministry Director: chrisw@vpc.church
He is always with us As we head into the summer, many of us will travel to familiar and new places and have wonderful experiences. Summer travel causes me to think about how different our lives can be and the many and varied roles we as men take on. It reminded me of the book by the Farrel’s that men are like waffles. Men, we have the unique ability to compartmentalize our thoughts, feelings and responsibilities. This may have some advantages; however it can cause us to compartmentalize our relationship with Jesus, rather than allow that relationship to transcend all that we do. Men, this summer as you head off on wonderful adventures, continue in the grind at work, or care for your family and loved ones, remember the promise of Jesus that He is with us always. Allow your relationship with Christ to be the syrup to your waffle, informing and encouraging you in all that you do. Our great God is everywhere we go and living into that relationship allows others to see His goodness. (Psalm 139) -Chris Woodard
Women’s Ministry
Third Tuesday of the Month Breakfasts June 19 & July 17, 6:30AM First Watch at Hilton Village Come for a morning of fellowship and prayer, hear about the men’s ministry at VPC, and meet a new friend over a good breakfast. Gather at 6:30 and breakfast will begin at 6:45AM.
2018 Men's Retreat Friday-Sunday, September 21-23 UCYC, Prescott, AZ VPC is excited to hold its fifth annual men's retreat. This will be a great weekend where new friendships are formed over food, activities, and fellowship. As we escape the normal routine of our lives and retreat to the hills of Prescott, we have an opportunity to hear God's word more clearly and through that clarity deepen our relationship with Jesus.
Men’s Adult Basketball Thursdays, 6:30-7:30AM Landes Center, year round, no fee Mike Bitticks, michael.bitticks@gmail.com Looking for a way to begin your day with some great fun and exercise? Then our morning Men’s Basketball program is for you! Join us for a quick game before you head off to work. Showers and lockers available.
Kelly Nieto, Pastor: kellyn@vpc.church
Summer of Fun and Friends Before becoming a mom, I would think of “girls’ night” as an opportunity to get away from everyday life of study or work, and spend some time intentionally building friendships with other women. As a mom now, I know that “girls’ night” is absolutely essential to keeping my focus and joy as I go through my everyday life with my family and my work at the church. The Summer of Fun and Friends is here for all of the ladies at VPC to take some intentional time to get to know one another, eat sugar together, play extremely easy (or more difficult, your choice!) games, and serve together. Mark these dates on your calendar, I look forward to seeing you there! -Pastor Kelly Nieto
Summer of Fun and Friends Events* *Childcare: nursery@vpc.church
Cupcakes by You!*
Wednesday, June 30, 6-7:30PM, Fireside Room A professional cake decorator will be leading us through the essential (and easy!) steps to decorating cupcakes. And of course, we will get a chance to sample our work!
Game Night
Sunday, July 15, 4-6PM, Location TBA Whether you are a game-player who likes to talk (Bunco is for you!) or a serious game-player who likes a challenge, we have games for every level and interest. We will snack and enjoy fellowship together. Bring a friend and join us!
Feed My Starving Children
Saturday, August 18, 2-4PM, FMSC Warehouse We will have the opportunity to put together food packets that will be distributed around the world. Bring a friend or an older kiddo to join in the fun of serving God through serving others.
Moms Morning Out
Save the Date: Women’s Breakfast Saturday, September 15 8-11AM, Orange Tree Resort
Tuesdays, June 5, 12 & 19, 9-11:30AM Registration: vpc.church/women Cost: $15 first child, $10 each additional sibling We offer child care for children age 0-5. Questions? Email Brianne, nursery@vpc.church *Limited space available. Registration closes the Sunday prior at 5PM.
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Care & Support
David Turner, Pastor: davidt@vpc.church
Pet Pause
and hope into their lives.
It's a privilege to be able to visit those in our community who are experiencing health issues or suffering loss. Sometimes, I leave these interactions very drained. How much more draining it is for those in the midst of these trials? I'm grateful for ways to bring joy
Remembrances Our church family extends its Christian sympathy to the family and friends of John Berta, Anton Fileff, Margaret & Ludwig Huck, and Cindy Scholl. Deacon Ministries
When I get home, feeling the weight of ministry, I'm greeted by my dog Louie and his wagging tail. He nuzzles at my feet and as I bend to greet him, he puts his paws on my shoulders and welcomes me with wet kisses. It’s then that my world seems right again. To quote Josh Billings, “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” I’ve been lucky throughout my life and have experienced love beyond what I deserve, and the love of a dog is unconditional.
As VPC, and you, move into your summer schedule – please be aware that your Deacons are still here to serve the VPC family. Lay Hospital Chaplains will continue to visit our friends in hospitals and/or rehab centers; At-Home Visitors will check in on their special friends; the Baby Welcome Team is ready for action should a new mother need our gifts and prayers. Tasty Spoon members are always ready to turn on the stove to prepare a meal for a family in need - just to name a few.
Many of you, like myself, find that the best therapist is often the one with fur and four legs. If that’s true for you, a visit from one of our Pet Pause therapy dogs might be exactly what you or someone you know needs to brighten their day. If you are interested in a Pet Pause visit, contact Tammy Milne: tammym@vpc.church or (480) 991-6424.
If you have any needs over the summer, please don’t hesitate to contact Tammy: tammym@vpc.church. She will connect you with the appropriate Deacon Chairperson to provide a helping hand.
-Pastor David Turner
Mental Health
Elizabeth Weiss: esweiss@gmail.com
Summer Reading
Here are some great books that will raise your awareness about mental health issues and how God cares about the whole person. Anatomy of the Soul Curt Thompson, MD Do you want to improve your relationships and experience lasting personal change? Join psychiatrist Curt Thompson on an amazing journey to discover the surprising blueprint for transformation hidden inside your own mind. Anatomy of the Soul illustrates how learning about one of God's most miraculous creations--your brain--can enrich your life, your relationships, and your impact on the world around you. In a Different Key: The Story of Autism John Donvan and Caren Zucker “In this compelling, well-researched book, the authors weave together the heroic search by parents for treatment and services for their children with the personal stories of a fascinating cast of characters. An invaluable guide for those dealing with autism and an inspiring affirmation of every individual’s contribution to 'the fabric of humanity.'” --Kirkus Review
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To learn more or join our Mental Health Ministry team contact me. -Elizabeth Weiss
Here's what happened at: Third Annual Behavioral Health Interfaith Conference St. Patrick's Catholic Community The conference was a great success, with 180 people in attendance! Members of VPC's Mental Health Ministry worked with the St. Pat's Behavioral Health committee to plan and organize the free event. The theme of the conference was "Connecting our Community: Increasing Awareness and Sharing Behavioral Health Resources." Topics covered included: "The Intersection of Faith and Mental Health, "Effective Communication: What you Say Vs. What they Hear," "Breaking the Cycle of Opioid Use in Arizona," and "Infant Mental Health: The Importance of Relationships." The feedback and evaluations after the event were very positive, and the need for this type of collaboration is recognized in our area. This year there were 23 corporate and faith community sponsors involved. The committee has agreed to present a 4th conference next year, scheduled for Friday, May 17, 2019.
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 Try it out!
I had a choir member’s daughter call me a few weeks ago asking if it was completely necessary that her father attend choir that evening. If he did attend, he would miss an important family dinner/ celebration for his graduating grandson. Now, this particular choir member RARELY misses! He is very dedicated to the choir and to this church. His loyalty runs deep. I placed a phone call to him immediately telling him that his loyalty on this evening needed to be with his family and, of course, excused him from choir rehearsal. We have 30 members in our choir that are so dedicated. There were a couple of Sundays in April and May where the choir didn’t sing in worship, and a few of them showed up any way, ready to sing! I am amazed at the heart and dedication of this group and I am happy to give them the summer off. I want to say a big THANK YOU to our choir for a wonderful choir season. Preparing for worship and concerts is a big commitment and these folks do it with love and a song in their hearts. Enjoy the summer off and we hope you enjoy the special summer music!!
Summer Choir Every Sunday in June Choir Room, 8:30AM sing in 9AM worship service Come join us on any Sunday in June to sing in Summer Choir! We’ll meet at 8:30AM, learn a simple song and sing in worship! No long term commitment necessary, but you may find you actually love it and stay!! For more information contact Jennifer.
June is the month to sing in the Summer Choir. You don’t have to commit to every Sunday. We welcome you on any Sunday. Come give it a try – you’ll like it so much, you’ll be back in the fall!! - Jennifer Hamm
Valley Day School
Meghan Gottfredson, Day School Director: meghang@vpc.church
Seeds of God planted The end of a wonderful preschool year came to a close this past week. This is a time of year that is difficult for both parents, teachers, and sometimes even for children. During those final days, one could sense the emotion in the air. Teary-eyed parents dropped off little ones knowing that this would be their last time walking our hallways with a preschooler. The end of a school year is a marker. For many of our families this month was an end of a season in their parenting journey. They will have kindergartners attending elementary school this August. Our prayer is that these graduating families look back on their years at VDS with great fondness. On the very last day of school, our families made a tunnel for the graduating children to run through – cheering them on to what lies ahead. There were shouts of joy and not a dry eye to be found. Please pray for these families and their children. Pray that we will see them again at church for years to come. Pray that we will see them in our pews. Pray that the seeds God has planted in their hearts during their time within our walls will continue to grow all the days of their lives. -Meghan Gottfredson
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Foundation
Charlee Turner, Foundation Administrator: charleet@vpc.church VPF Scholarship
Valley Presbyterian Foundation is proud to assist our college students in their educational endeavors as they prepare for productive and
2018 Erickson, Kurz, & Simmons Scholarship Recipients
faithful lives as God’s children. Our scholars have served their church and community by displaying their faith and using their God-given talents. Our goal is to offer greater financial help in the future for students requesting assistance in furthering their studies to attain their career goals. Thank you for supporting our scholars. –Linda May Bucher, Scholarship Committee Chair
Katherine Gonzales
MOPS
Jackson Martin
Heidi Artigue
Iona McAllister
Molly Livak: mollyl@vpc.church
Tyler Beauchamp
Erica Samota
Anna Gilbreath
John Schupbach
Volunteer
Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Kickoff
Vacation Bible School (VBS)
Join us for a great morning with your kids. You’ll get a chance to meet the other women that make up this great community, and your kids will have a fun, active morning.
Pre-VBS Involves building and decorating sets or putting together crafts and projects.
Friday, August 24, 9-11:30AM, Landes Center
Our theme for next year is Find Your Fire! We’ll live expectantly, surrender daringly & breathe freely! -Molly Livak
General volunteer categories: Pre-VBS, Crew Leaders, and Behind the Scenes Questions? Email Tina: tinag@vpc.church
Crew Leaders Guide a group of kids throughout the week. Behind the Scenes Snack and food preparation, volunteer appreciation, snack donation coordination. Wall of Needs One way you can help VBS is by checking out the Wall of Needs. There are many pre-VBS activities and needs that anyone can help with! Take a look on the patio after worship.
Church Office phone receptionist Kris Bahr: krisb@vpc.church
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Four-hour shifts available Monday-Friday. In need of substitutes, especially for the summer. No experience necessary. Training provided. For more information contact Kris.
VPC Leadership News From Session From the May 22 Session meeting: David Joynt welcomed Scott Freeman to Session; he is filling Susie Huseth’s unexpired term (Susie was hired as VPC's Children's Ministry Assistant in March.) Bob Aldag, one of our Presbytery delegates, gave an insightful report on Presbytery, noting why he believes VPC should be more interested, informed, and involved in the Presbytery. Meghan Gottfredson, Director of Valley Day School, and Jeff Fassett, President of the Valley Day School Board, presented the VDS’s Annual Report. Enrollment increased by 30 this past year and the school is looking at a $30,000 surplus after a deficit last year. Most importantly, the relationship between the school and Valley is the healthiest it has been in years. David updated Session on the exciting progress of the capital campaign. Session extended its contract with Keith Kerber, who has been managing A New Heart for the Valley, through September 30. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me at 480-368-6567.
-Karen Meyer, Clerk of Session
Leader Spotlight Sam Kelsall, Elder Finance & Operations Committee I have been a member of VPC for 18 years. In that time I’ve served as trustee of the Valley Presbyterian Foundation for three years, and served as President of VPF for two years. I started the Foundation’s Legacy Dinner. I currently serve as Director of Development of VPF. I’ll serve on any group that promotes gardening in South Phoenix. I strongly believe in teaching people to fish rather than handing out fish.
Finances & Operations
Kris Bahr, Finance & Operations Director: krisb@vpc.church
VPC finances year-to-date as of April 30, 2018 Income
Actual $
Budget $
Variance $
Faith Giving Other Income Total Income
688,765 88,029 776,794
685,000 131,505 816,505
3,765 -43,476 -39,711
Pastoral Ministry Admin & Facility Mission, Outreach, Cong. Care Christian Education Worship & Music Total Expense
157,577 333,118 59,120 93,412 61,252 704,479
157,991 344,509 61,945 115,164 69,821 749,430
414 11,391 2,825 21,752 8,569 44,951
72,315
67,075
5,240
Expense
Net Income less Expense
11:45AM Worship Service on Summer Break Sanctuary Balcony & Transept closed during summer worship
Sanctuary balcony and transept will be closed during worship starting Sunday, June 3.
Church office closed
Wednesday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day.
Ministry Brochures are in!
Get yours today in each worship center, front office, or online: vpc.church
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