VALLEY VINE valley presbyterian church
June|July 2015
Volume 60, Number 5
To understand them is to discern the difference between good and evil, between life and death. This summer we will go to the mountains together, visiting Sinai and Galilee, with Moses and Jesus. I invite you to come along and to follow online when you are away at myvalleychurch.org/sermons.
Dear friends, Summarize your version of life’s foundational principles in 10 sentences. Offer, in one page, the most salient wisdom of the ages. Describe the character of existence and the meaning of human flourishing in less than one minute. Provide a framework of instruction that will: 1. Undermine human pride and independence and direct men and women to the grace and mercy of God freely available in Christ. 2. Help faith-filled disciples, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to reshape their lives in accord with the divine will. 3. Provide a basis for human communities to restrain evil, establish order and pursue justice.
In the fall, we will open our hearts for a season of gratitude like no other. What makes your heart fill with thankfulness at Valley Presbyterian Church? How do you see God at work here? What people, activities and ministries bless and encourage you? How many reasons can we find to praise? Gratitude deepens our worship, enlivens our players, frees our spiritual energies and draws us closer to God. Every single person at VPC can help us grow in gratitude, from the youngest to the oldest. Write down your reasons, and there will be further instruction in September! Yours faithfully,
Pretty tough assignment? Impossible? Not if you are familiar with the 10 Commandments.
This summer, we will study the 10 Commandments, found in two versions in the Old Testament – Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21. Along the way we will discover why these commandments and laws are blessings and not unwelcome restraints or arbitrary decrees, or the product of ever-shifting cultural forces. The 10 Commandments are decisive evidence for the reality of divine revelation. They are a unique roadmap that leads to growth and salvation. They revolutionize our view of God and ourselves. Interpreted by Jesus, they are the end of religion and the beginning of new vision of the spiritual adventure.
Sermon Series May 24-July 26 “...a unique roadmap that leads to growth and salvation.”
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 YUCATAN MISSION TRIP Valley Presbyterian Church has a story to tell. It’s a story about choosing to do something significant that can open your eyes to new ways God is working in the world today. For 10 days, from May 23 to June 1, Valley Presbyterian Church sent seven of our members, including Director of Mission Chris Woodard and Senior Pastor David Joynt, to the village of San Antonio. In the jungles of the Yucatan they built a hurricane-proof roof for the local church, hosted a Vacation Bible School for 200 children and built relationships with the people of the village.
This is the kind of experience that can change the trajectory of people’s lives. Lauren added before she left, “It’s probably something that’s going to change my attitude about life… I hope that I get some sort of new perspective.” The Yucatan Mission Trip team can tell you more about their experiences; take the time to ask them when you see them. This trip was one of several our students and young adults will take this summer to learn more about God and how to serve His people. Hear more from Lauren, Connell and Katherine at myvalleychurch.org/yucatanmissiontrip.
San Antonio is remote, and the sheer amount of work is daunting. “The big reason that I signed up was because I wanted to do, like, some hands on building. Which sounds kind of weird, but I’m an architecture major, so it just seemed like something I could get behind,” said Lauren. “I wanted to get world experience and get out there and see people from different walks of life.” “I did the trip a few years ago,” Connell states. “I like the village a lot; a lot of people there are really nice.” Katherine is looking forward to the Bible School component: “I feel like I’m really relatable to little kids.”
Mission & Service SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES:
Chris Woodard: chriswoodard@myvalleychurch.org God is doing incredible things in our community, country and world. If you would like to be a part of any of these ministry efforts contact Chris Woodard. • Help provide school supplies for Navajo Elementary School. Donations accepted through Sunday, July 26. myvalleychurch.org/schoolsupplies • MentorKids USA will be having summer program enrichment camps. Volunteers needed. • The last weekend of June we will be finishing a bathroom in the sanctuary of our sister church, First Presbyterian Church Tuba City. • We will be hosting four Family Promise families from August 23 through 30. Volunteers needed, contact Kathy Arner: kathy.arner@gmail.com.
45th ANNIVERSARY OF COOKS’ TOUR
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MAY HIGHLIGHTS
*Over 50 people from Valley Presbyterian Church serving four Family Promise families, helped prepare meals, provide activities, wash sheets, make beds and turned our church into their home. *We sent our college mission team to the the village of San Antonio in the jungles of the Yucatan. They built a hurricane proof roof for the local church, hosted a Vacation Bible School for 200 children as well as built relationships with the people of the Yucatan. (see this month’s “Who We Are” story)
SAVE THE DATE: Friday, November 6, 2015 Co-chairs, Helen Wolfe: 480-994-0035 & Beryl Hassig: 480-905-1257 Annual event benefiting our community and the world. Cooks’ Tour has raised and donated over one million dollars to those in need. If interested in getting involved, supporting or learning more about this one-day event contact either co-chair.
Events
A Summer of Significance
Our children, students and young adults embark on five adventures this summer to learn more about God and serve our world.
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Get Connected COMMUNITY GROUPS June, July & August
A place to study God’s word, build relationships, serve others, and grow deeper in your faith. For more information visit: myvalleychurch.org/community_groups 2nd Sundays, Lunch 4th Thursdays, Social Outings chriswoodard@myvalleychurch.org
On summer break:
2nd Thursdays, Lunch Paradise Bakery Old Town Scottsdale jeter@forbin.net Sundays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Calvin Center wild4uofa@aol.com meets year round 3rd Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. Lunch Bunch, Camelback Golf Club
SPORTS MINISTRY
Della Berg: dellaberg@myvalleychurch.org, 480-991-6242 ext. 168 Join the fun and fellowship! Be active and have a great time. All activities in the Landes Center • Pickleball: ages 7-107, Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays 6-8 p.m. • Men’s Basketball: all ages, Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 a.m. • Martial Arts: ages 5 & up, Tuesdays 6-7 p.m., Thursdays 4:30-5:30 p.m. • Line Dancing: adults, Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon • Sportball: ages 3-5, Summer Camp, June1-5
Women’s PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN
MOM’S MORNING OUT
Helen Wolfe: hlhwolfe@cox.net Circles, Luncheon & Speaker (on summer break) Remain active and volunteer for one of the many Cooks’ Tour opportunities. Contact Helen Wolfe.
BUNKO
Sunday, June 7, 5 p.m. Leslie Woodard: lesliewoodard@myvalleychurch.org For location and to RSVP contact Leslie..
FALL 2015 BIBLE STUDIES
Thursday and Friday mornings in the fall. Leslie Woodard: lesliewoodard@myvalleychurch.org Details coming soon.
CHILDCARE
RESERVATION Tuesdays in June & July REQUIRED 9-11:30 a.m., Nursery Children 6 weeks– 5 years. $10 per child/$5 per sibling Meghan Gottfredson: nursery@myvalleychurch.org Looking for a little break for yourself? This is your chance to run a few errands or make it to a needed appointment.
SAVE THE DATE:
Breakfast at Orange Tree Golf Resort Saturday, September 19 Leslie Woodard: lesliewoodard@myvalleychurch.org Morning of worship, teaching and fellowship. All women are welcome. Contact Leslie for more information.
Men’s OPPORTUNITIES
David Turner: davidturner@myvalleychurch.org Getting tired of the same routine? Get involved with new opportunities, connect with men and grow your faith. If you’re interested in trying something new check out the following opportunities.
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“TOP GOLF”
Thursday, June 11, Top Golf Tom Hillman: AZhillmanAZ@gmail.com Cost: $20 Let the fun begin! We are reserving an evening at Top Golf to hang out and show our golf skills. For the starting time and to reserve your place, contact Tom.
SAVE THE DATE: Men’s Fall Retreat
September 25-27, Living Springs Camp in Sedona, Arizona Registration coming soon.
Music & Arts WELCOME JENNIFER HAMM Valley Presbyterian Church is happy to announce that Jennifer Hamm has been hired to join the staff team as Minister of Music. Jennifer has over 13 years of music ministry experience, including extensive choral experience, as well as working with youth and in musical theater settings. Most recently she has worked as the American Tour Coordinator for Daystar University in Kenya, and prior to that served as the Director of Music at two churches in the Dallas area. Jennifer received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in Voice Performance. Her Bachelor’s degree is from Arizona State University and Master’s from the University of Colorado at Boulder. She is passionate abut music as a vital and important component in the life of a church, and loves seeing different styles and genres touch people in different ways. Jennifer feels called to share her knowledge and skills with God’s people, and is looking forward to what He has in store for VPC. Stay tuned for more information about Jennifer and the exciting things she’ll be doing soon!
SUMMER CHOIR
Sundays in June 8 a.m. Rehearsal, Choir Room, Sing at 9 a.m. Service Nellie Cronin: 480-451-5356 Have you always wanted to sing with the Chancel Choir? Then summer choir is for you! All are welcome!
Families STUDENTS
CHILDREN
Jordan Gustafson: jordangustafson@myvalleychurch.org
Tina Gilbreath tinagilbreath@myvalleychurch.org
The Gathering (on summer break)
Vacation Bible School (VBS)
June 22-26 Everest...Conquering challenges with God’s mighty power!
Jr. & Sr. High Sunday gatherings
Summer Youth Group
Registration online: myvalleychurch.org/ministries/children/ 2015-vacation-bible-school
Tuesdays, Landes Basement Jr. High, 5:30-7 p.m. Sr. High, 7:30-9 p.m. Dinner served Jr. & Sr. High, 7-7:30 p.m.
Summer Sunday school has begun
Summer Trips
Please have your children enjoy the worship bags!
• Forest Home Camp June 14-19, 6th-12th grade • Tuba City Mission Trip July 6-11, 6th-9th grade • Los Angeles Mission Trip July 19-25, 10th-12th grade
The nursery will be open for infants and toddlers all summer.
(see page 3 for more information)
Summer Sunday School for children 3y.o.-entering 1st grade. Children entering second grade and older are encouraged to worship with their families during the summer months.
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Care & Support GRIEF SUPPORT CLASSES
MENTAL HEALTH
Karen Annis: 480-510-5385 Ken Royer: 480-532-7944
Family 2 Family Classes in the East Valley
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Offered in the Fall through Encore University If you or someone you know is suffering with the loss of a loved one, we can offer one-on-one support throughout the summer months.
REMEMBRANCE
Our church family extends its Christian sympathy to the family and friends of: Sue McFarland Mark Sleeth
Debbie Martinez, Education Coordinator: 602-244-8166, namimaricopaedu@gmail.com 12-week series for persons who have adult loved ones suffering from serious mental illness.
Family Support Group
1st Tuesday of the month, 6-7:30 p.m. Mountain View Presbyterian Church Tom Lacey: 480-467-9130
Mental Health 24-hour Crisis Line 602-222-9444
Marc Community Resources Inc.
Julia Shaw Jean Snyder
Andy, Information and Referral Coordinator: 480-994-4407, Mentalhealthaz.org
Mental Health Printed Information Available
Valley Presbyterian Church Library, reception counter.
Educational Enrichment CHILDCARE RESERVATION REQUIRED
ADULT EDUCATION STUDIES
Wednesdays, June 3-July 8 Calvin Center, 6:30-8 p.m. Della Berg: dellaberg@myvalleychurch.org 480-991-6424 ext. 168
A.D.: The Bible Continues
Christ’s resurrection was only the beginning of the story! Join us as we go through the riveting story of the beginning of the Church. Recount how the disciples struggled to survive and share their beliefs, guiding us from the sorrow of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice to the awe-inspiring wonder of the resurrection and beyond. We will see how this small band of men and women set out to change the world for Christ by the guidance of the Holy Spirit. First six weeks of study this summer.
ADVENTURES IN LIFELONG LEARNING
Tracy Keller: encore@myvalleychurch.org 480-991-6424 ext. 165
Fall Term begins October 13 Saturday Morning Speaker Series continues...
November 14: Robert Robb & Senator Jon Kyl Arizona Republic Editorial Columnist, a participant and observer of Arizona government and politics in conversation with former Senator Jon Kyl.
Foundation FOUNDATION – MEET THE TRUSTEES Jim Arner, Trustee 602-992-3454
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Jim’s first experience with Valley Presbyterian Church was as a child in the Sunday school program. After college, the Coast Guard, and marriage, Jim transferred his membership to VPC in 1986 when he and Kathy moved back to Arizona. Jim has been on many senior high mission trips, has served as the church Treasurer, a deacon and is active with the 10:30 service. Jim is blessed to have the time to also regularly volunteer at The Nature Conservancy in Arizona office in Phoenix. Jim and Kathy have two grown daughters. Contact Jim if you have questions regarding the Foundation and the ministries it supports.
Church News NEWS FROM SESSION
Karen Meyer, Clerk of Session: 480-368-6567 At its May meeting, the Session received a report from Chris Woodard on Valley’s mission activities and agreed to study how our efforts can have more impact. This past year, Valley contributed and gave volunteer efforts to close to 40 causes. These were directed by the Mission Team (Session), Presbyterian Women, Valley Presbyterian Foundation, Encore University, our Youth, and Community Groups. We have great people doing great things! However, we must be more intentional and set mission parameters and evaluation tools. Session will work with the other groups so VPC can have a focus in the community rather than support so many causes, some in very small ways. Session agreed with Encore’s request to contract with “Worship Times”( a ministry website design firm) to enhance and improve its website and to maintain it. Session moved to contract with Victory Air to rebuild the pump in the Sanctuary cooler and to repair the Chapel air conditioning unit for a cost of $12,357. Session accepted a job description for a Website/Social Media Administrator. This rewritten job description includes a higher level of website and social media skill to better meet the needs of the Communication team. The rate of pay is the same. Session gave approval to the Music Director Search Committee to make an offer and negotiate a financial package with Finance and Operations’ approval. In the continuing study of Ordination Standards, a committee was appointed to plan the fall congregational programs. Gloria Gabler will chair the committee. Mary Artigue, Lisa Keylon, and Ed Glady will serve on the committee. Others may be added. Session read letters that have been addressed to it in the last month. Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns. Blessings, Karen Meyer
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SESSION
Kathy Arner Mary Artigue Sarah Brammer David Eaton Dick Fawley Fred Fetters Gloria Gabler Ed Glady Lisa Keylon Lisa LaFon Richard Lockwood Ruth Lukian Darrah MacDougall Joan Nastro Prescott Pohl Shirley Polk John Samota Roy Schumacher Vicki Tatum Matt Winter Clerk of Session: Karen Meyer
FINANCE
Kris Bahr: krisbahr@myvalleychurch.org Valley Presbyterian Church Finances Year to Date through April 30, 2015 Actual Budget Total income $831,000 $871,400 Total expense $717,000 $739,000 Difference $114,000 $132,400
BISTRO UPDATE
Lisa LaFon: lisa@lsquaredcomm.com Food Service provides a vital community ministry at Valley Presbyterian Church. Coming this fall there will be a re-imagining of how we can create places to engage with our church community around food. If you are interested in learning more about the exciting new concept being planned contact Lisa LaFon.
WEEKDAY COFFEE
Brandon Fox: brandonfox@myvalleychurch.org As part of our effort to conserve resources over the summer, coffee will only be served on Sundays and at memorial receptions beginning May 26 and ending September 7. We appreciate your understanding. If you have any questions, contact Brandon Fox, Manager of Buildings and Grounds.
NOTE:
This issue of Valley Vine includes July. Look for next issue in August.
OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED ON FRIDAY, JULY 3 IN OBSERVANCE OF INDEPENDENCE DAY.
Thank you to all who have helped to address the needs of our beautiful campus.
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Worship
Sermon Series through July 26 PREACHING SCHEDULE June|July 2015 June 7 July 5 David Joynt David Joynt
Valley Presbyterian Church
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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June 14 David Turner
July 12 David Joynt
June 21 Chris Woodard
July 19 David Joynt
June 28 David Joynt
July 26 David Joynt Weekly Kilgore Chapel 8 & 11:45 a.m. Sanctuary 9 a.m.
The balcony and transept will be closed through Labor Day.
Landes Center 10:30 a.m. Communion June 7 & July 5 Pastoral Staff David Joynt, David Turner Pastors Emeriti Thomas A. Erickson, G. Wooden Garvin