March valley vine by Valley Presbyterian Church

valley vine

Valley Presbyterian Church March 2018 Volume sixty-three, Number two Dear friends, March 4 will mark a new stage in our efforts to reach rising generations. On that Sunday, VPC will introduce Travis Kingma as our Director of Student Ministry. He officially starts March 5. Travis is a graduate of Fuller Seminary in Pasadena and will be ordained in the next few months. He has been, and will continue to be, the inspiring leader of our 10:30AM worship service. Travis brings great experience from his leadership in previous churches, a compelling faith, and a great vision for reaching youth and shaping disciples. In addition, Tina Gilbreath, Director of Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministry, will become Director of Family Ministry. She will exercise her talents for communication, volunteer training, planning, and organization with the whole range of ages from infants through college. Susie Huseth will become a part-time Assistant with our children, accompanying Tina and Marie Bitticks. This change will allow VPC to cultivate and deepen our relationships with families as their children grow and become young adults. We are also searching for a new part-time person to work with Travis in Student Ministry. Collectively, these changes will refocus and extend our ministry to middle and high school students.

I dream of a future where VPC has a broad and deep ministry to young men and women, a ministry with long-term, consistent leadership that models the joy and passion of following Christ. I hope for a future where our students use their gifts in our worship and mission. I want all of us to be inspired by the faith and commitment of rising generations. Please join me in prayer that Travis and Tina will be blessed in their new roles and will be a great blessing to the precious young people of our church and our community.

Yours faithfully,

Lenten Sermon Series 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: Building A New Heart for the Valley

vpc.church/anewheart I want a new heart! Do you? Do you long for a heart, and for a community, that is deeper, stronger, and more faithful than ever before? A heart, and a church, full of grace and truth, overflowing with love and goodness!? On Sunday, February 18 we begin two exciting things. We begin a sermon series that will last through Easter, and we started a Capital Campaign. Both endeavors have the same name – A New Heart for the Valley, because both have the same purpose: to deepen our hearts for God and his mission. -Pastor David Joynt Why is VPC conducting a Capital Campaign? For over 60 years, VPC has been a place where Jesus Christ transforms lives. The people of this congregation have brought the love of Christ to people all over Phoenix through compassionate mission, intelligent classes, insightful preaching and teaching, caring for children, and a commitment to worship and the arts. But VPC needs a plan and a place for the next 60 years. A New Heart for the Valley Capital Campaign addresses current needs to expand childcare, enhance hospitality, bring worshiping communities together, bless our local mission partners, and create a central area for connection. See page 11 for more information.

Who We Are: A night that changes lives

It’s been nearly four years since Valley Presbyterian Church began its work as a host church for Family Promise of Greater Phoenix. “We spent hours discussing all sorts of things that night,” Kathy Arner remembers. She’d bumped into a man, a father entered into the program with his young sons, who had problems sleeping at night. “I was excited that first week to provide an accepting and safe space for families to recover and to get back on their feet.” They prayed. Since 2000, Family Promise of Greater Phoenix has rescued over 500 families from homelessness through programs that help families become independent. The organization has helped families gain child care, employment, and next step housing. As a host church, VPC provides families with food, shelter, and friendship over a week-long period as they attend programs. Our campus is a home to these families four times a year. At this year's Annual Foundation Dinner, we will raise funds that directly support the childcare expenses families of Family Promise incur while at work. In the past, the dinner has annually donated nearly $60,000 to specific capital improvement campaigns and around $50,000 towards our General Fund.

We hope that you are as excited as we are to make an impact on the lives of others! How better to walk in His Word than with dance, food, and friends. Attendees will be treated to dinner, live entertainment, and live and silent auction opportunities. It’s a great cause, a good time, and an opportunity to dust off your best flapper dress or Gatsby-esque attire- you are all invited! See page 11 for event and ticket information.

Highlighted Events

church@vpc.church

April 1 6AM, Fountain 9AM*, Sanctuary 10:30AM*, Landes Center 11:45AM, Chapel Sunrise Choir & Organ Band Valley Singers

Holy Week

Maundy Thursday, March 29 6:30PM*, Sanctuary

Good Friday, March 30 Noon & 6:30PM*, Chapel

Valley Presbyterian Church *Childcare available for ages 0-2

Inquirer Class

INQUIRER CLASS

Sunday, March 25 12:30-2:30PM, Fireside Room Sign up to join our community! vpc.church/inquirer

SATURDAY, MARCH 31

9-10:30AM, Kiva Elementary School Field Fun for the whole family!

Mission & Service

Chris Woodard, Mission Director: chrisw@vpc.church

Elevate grace in your life Historically people give something up for Lent as a way to participate in the suffering that our Lord Jesus experienced for us. However, this year I have decided to elevate grace in my life. Lent reminds me that I am to be a person of grace. The grace that God extended to me through Jesus is not something to be saved but it is something to be shared, because grace multiplies, through Jesus its effects are exponential. Every person I meet is an opportunity to share God’s grace, every marginalized situation I encounter is an opportunity to leverage God’s grace for redemption. It is a wonderful gift to be a person of grace and that is why I am so excited to be a part of VPC. How wonderful it is that we are a church of grace, helping with the homeless and hungry, the disenfranchised, and the abandoned. Thank you for being a people of grace. May others know the love of God through the grace we freely share. -Chris Woodard

Connect

MentorKids after school program is in full swing! If you would like to have a major impact in a child’s life this opportunity is for you. Come be a part by reading to a child, helping them with their homework, and being a consistent loving presence in their life.

ICM Food Drive begins Sunday, March 4, Return full bags Sunday, March 18 Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church ICM Food & Clothing Bank meets the basic needs of up to 150 families every day, six days a week. Please take a bag available on patios and return it full on March 18.

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 Live out your faith

The Rev. Billy Graham, who recently passed away at the wonderful age of 99, generally left his converts with the exhortation, “Above all, go to church!” What a powerful exhortation that is! We are created for community. The Christian walk is not meant to be a solo experience. We need each other to sharpen and strengthen our faith and resolve. We at VPC want to help equip and empower you as you live out your faith in the areas that God has called you to. If you consider VPC your home and would like to know more about us, we invite you to join us for our next Inquirer class. As always, if there is anything we can do to help please don’t hesitate to reach out! -Pastor Mike Nieto

Inquirer Class

Sunday, March 25 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.

Volunteer with MentorKids USA Mondays, 3-5:30PM, van leaves from VPC

Phoenix Theatre Night, Million Dollar Quartet Thursday, March 22, 7:30PM Everyone is welcome. Tickets: Wandie Hulick, wild4uofa@aol.com

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 Wednesdays, 7PM, Youth Room Lunch after church, March 4 Dinner at Chris and Brianna's, March 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 March 1: Mexican Train & Irish Dinner, 3-5PM, Fireside Room Lunch Bunch: March 15, 11:30AM, Camelback Golf Club Cardmaking: March 8, 3PM, Fireside Room

Children & Families

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

Experience the Easter story I have been saving palm fronds and palm crosses from Palm Sunday worship services for years. I set out these still beautiful reminders each Lenten Season in a vase. Not long ago I added some nails I collected from a few Good Friday worship services and prayer stations to the vase of palm fronds. I wanted my Easter decorations to tell the whole story. Unlike Advent, parts of the story of Easter are difficult to embrace. I am thankful for ‘resurrection eggs’ and other activities that my children have brought home from Sunday School to help us talk about the very real but less ‘fun’ parts of Lent. Understanding the whole story of Holy Week helps us all understand Christ’s sacrifice for us more fully. We pray that the Sunday School crafts, projects, and Classroom Takeaway handouts will help you and your children talk and learn about the whole Easter story together. Blessings to you and your family this Lenten season. -Tina Gilbreath

Students

Palm Sunday Procession March 25, 2018, 9 & 10:30AM All children 1st grade and older interested in being a part of the Palm Sunday Procession must attend rehearsal on Saturday, March 24 from 9-10:30AM in the Sanctuary. Children 3y.o.-K who wish to participate should plan to arrive 8:30AM on Sunday, March 25 and meet in the choir room. Please contact Tina or Marie if you have any questions.

Bunny Business March 31, 9-10:30AM, Kiva Field Join us for our annual egg hunt, plus inflatables, rock wall, dunk tank, food trucks and more. Don’t miss the fun! Questions? Volunteer? Contact Tina.

Easter Sunday April 1, 2018 Nursery will be available for children two years old and under. Children three years old and older get to worship with their family and our whole church community. Parents remember this is a unique time to share praising Jesus with your kiddos! Plan ahead for this special morning, talk with your children in advance about expectations, bring a bag of quiet activities, and let Tina and Marie know if you have questions or need tips.

Travis Kingma: travisk@vpc.church Meet Travis Kingma

Travis Kingma Bio

We are very excited to announce that Travis Kingma has been selected by our Search Committee to become VPC’s next Director of Student Ministry.

Travis Kingma hails from West Michigan, digs East Coast pizza, and is down to play Ping-Pong most anytime. Besides spending time with his incredible wife, Samantha, his free time consists of writing music, spending time with friends, mountain biking, board sports, and going on spontaneous adventures.

Travis has a Master in Divinity from Fuller Seminary in California, and wonderful experience as a dynamic leader in different church settings. He has a passion for shaping the next generation of faithful disciples, helping them discover faith and developing their gifts. As you probably know, he is also a very talented musician! Travis created and recorded an album of beautiful worship music last year and provides inspiration each week at our 10:30AM worship service. He was a varsity tennis player in college, and has terrific skills as a communicator, teacher, and organizer. Travis officially starts his new role on March 5. We will have an opportunity to meet and talk with him on March 4 at 9:15AM in the Landes Basement. Huge thanks to Tina Gilbreath and Chris Woodard (and Brianna) for their stewardship of Student Ministry during this search process. The Woodards will continue to volunteer with our students. We are excited to have you join us on March 4. Please include Travis and his wife, Samantha, in your prayers in this upcoming season. Sam is a licensed therapist, specializing in children and adolescents. I believe a new and wonderful era is beginning at VPC for our ministry to and with our students! -Pastor David Joynt

Travis is a graduate of Fuller Seminary (M.Div.) in Pasadena, California and Hope College (B.A. Economics) in Holland, Michigan. Travis is deeply honored to be a part of the staff at VPC and is eager to use his God-given gifts to serve as a witness to the Gospel. In his new hybrid role, Travis will continue to lead worship in the 10:30 service while also fostering an environment where every student is known, loved, and connected into the body of Christ. He has a passion for reaching and serving people in the margins through the unfailing love of God revealed in Jesus Christ.

Forest Home Summer Camp June 10-15, 2018, Cost: $500 Sign up: At Student Gatherings or email Tina Gilbreath: tinag@vpc.church Junior High and High School students are invited to join the fun. Don’t miss out on our annual trek to California for camp. $150 deposit to secure your spot is due by March 4.

Learn & Grow

Pastor Kelly Nieto: kellyn@vpc.church

Rejoice in the joy

Around this time of year, we hear about Lenten fasts, abstaining from desserts or television or something else to spend more time focused on prayer. These seasons in church life are important in the rhythm of our community life, and they are also reminders to take time from our regular routine and rejoice in the joy of forgiveness, salvation, and resurrection. This Lent, come and take some time to prepare your heart for Lent as we prepare our life day by day for Christ. The DSG team wants to encourage you and walk alongside you in what it means to live for Christ in every moment of our lives. After Easter, we have opportunities to grow in faith through the life and testimony of Pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer and for parents to learn about how to raise their children with love, support, and boundaries. -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 Kerby The ability to discipline children while developing their understanding of personal responsibility and self-control is a key element of successful parenting. Class will teach you how to help your children take ownership, make responsible choices, and see the logical consequences of their actions!

Encore University

eu@vpc.church

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

Soup & Study, Wednesdays through March 21 6:30-7:30PM, 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

Encore Class Highlight: Enthusiastic, creative, loving, devoted, knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging are just a few ways to describe Jean and Art Humble. Jean is always smiling and spreading Jean & Art Humble her positive attitude. It is contagious! Many times she has taken a new student under her wing giving them encouragement and support, especially in the Joy of Painting course Jean takes each term. Art is a steadfast enthusiast when it comes to Encore. He has a vibrant passion for sharing his understanding and knowledge of Russia and Eurasia. Art has spent countless hours researching and preparing his own well-received presentations and helps others with their lectures.

Molly Livak: mollyl@vpc.church Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Fridays, March 9 & 23 9-11AM, Room 415/416 Don’t miss out on our Spring membership! We’ve reduced our fee to $60 to join for Spring

We are excited about our Spring line up for MOPS! Our theme for March is Parenting. We have two fabulous speakers lined up: Larry Kerby & Susie Garlick; both parenting experts. We look forward to all of their tips, tricks, and hacks to help us on this journey of motherhood! -Molly Livak

Jean and Art are treasures to Encore and VPC. Take a moment the next time you see them together or hear them talk of each other and their family. They are loving, kind and devoted to one another; they are in love. -Becky Bennett, Curriculum Coordinator

Last reminder to register for Encore's Spring 2018 term classes are filling fast! March 6-April 12 (no classes Holy week March 25-31) Shelby Trimaloff: shelbyt@vpc.church or encoreuniv.org

Larry Kerby- March 9

Susie Garlick- March 23

Men’s Ministry

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

Reset the rhythm of our lives There are times when my wife refers to me as a nerd. Truth be told there are nerdy things about my personality. This is verified by the fact that the church calendar brings me joy- I really like it! It is a calendar not filled with pictures of firemen or cats, it is a calendar that addresses the rhythm of life- the discipleship process. Currently we find ourselves in the season of Lent. Lent is an opportunity to become more aware of the sacrifices made by our Lord Jesus, which ultimately set us free. Lent is a time to be intentional about how one uses that freedom in Christ. It is a chance to reset the rhythms of our lives to be more in sync with the rhythm of God in our lives. Men, my prayer for us this Lenten Season is that we do not let this opportunity to reset the rhythm of our lives slip by but rather we engage fully with what God is doing in our lives so that our joy may be complete. Know that I am praying for you. Know that you are not alone on this journey. If you would like to connect with a small group or need some ideas for Lent please let me know.

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.

Habitat for Humanity Build Day Saturday, March 10

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.

Third Tuesday of the Month Breakfast March 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.

2017 Men's Retreat

-Chris Woodard

Women’s Ministry Exciting dates for the spring!

join in anytime!

We have an exciting Spring for the women of VPC! Women’s Bible Study continues with a study on the spiritual armor, how to understand spiritual warfare, and confront our defeated foe. Take a look at the upcoming dates, and feel free to

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

Fridays, 9-10:30AM, 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) Circles

The annual Women’s Progressive Dinner will be on Sunday, March 11, 4-6PM at the church. This is an opportunity to contribute to the scholarship fund for the Women’s Retreat! Enjoy appetizers, main entrée, and dessert with some wonderful times of fellowship with one another.

Tuesday, March 13 Mary: 9:30AM, Westminster Village Saguaro Room Wednesday, March 14 Esther: 10AM, Betty Heenan's home, 480-388-7247 Lydia: 9:30AM, Calvin Center Sarah: Noon, Room 409

Do you need a weekend away in a beautiful setting, comfy beds, and incredible company? Come and join us at the Women’s Retreat this year. The theme is Be Transformed and speaker Ele Parrott will share with us about how we are transformed by Christ and how we can help transform others through mission and mentoring. Keep an eye out for a sign up table on Sundays and the online registration. -Pastor Kelly Nieto

PW Luncheon and Speaker

March 21, 11:30AM, Landes Center, Cost: $10 RSVP: 480-991-6424 by March 16, Speaker:Peggy Frie Peggy is the former Moderator of the Presbytery Synod of the Southwest. She will speak about a mission trip to Indonesia.

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

Care & Support

Pastor David Turner: davidt@vpc.church

Pastoral Care and the Power of Prayer When we need to support our friends in times of crisis, often when we feel there is nothing we can do. We catch ourselves saying, “I guess all I can do is pray.” Have you ever said that? The reality is that prayer must be the first thing we do! If we want to see lives changed it’s not by our abilities, but rather by God. So many times, when I visit people in the hospital, they’re grateful knowing that they are being faithfully prayed for and even feel the power of those prayers. As I mentioned in the January Valley Vine, ruling elders, current deacons, and those actively serving as care givers under the leadership of Congregation Care Ministries will be receiving the Pastoral Care update to help with their specific ministries. Those who have traditionally received this update but are no longer actively serving on a care ministry team will receive the daily Prayer Chain email. This will contain a brief description of how we can pray for those individuals who are on the Pastoral Care update with additional prayer requests from the congregation. Currently we transitioning the format of the Prayer Chain and will relaunch this program midMarch. With the increased emphasis on prayer for those in hospitals, rehab clinics, and those struggling with health concerns at home, I can only imagine the power and support they will feel knowing our focus is to bring them to God in prayer.

Remembrances Our church family extends its Christian sympathy to the family and friends of Barbara Harris and Marilyn Riddel. 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 through 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.

May we be a people who not only understand the power of prayer but are committed to a healing ministry through it. -Pastor David Turner

Mental Health

Elizabeth Weiss: esweiss@gmail.com

NAMI Family to Family

Tuesdays through 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 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

Mental Health & The Gospel Conference Friday, March 9, 6-9PM Saturday, March 10, 8:30AM-2:15PM Redemption Tempe Sanctuary 2150 E. Southern, Tempe Registration: redaz.in/mhgctempe

The Gospel Reclaims the Shattered Stories held within our Bodies, Hearts, and Minds Join us to hear panel discussions and short talks on these issues from speakers like Curt Thompson (author of Anatomy of the Soul and The Soul of Shame) and other local church leaders, theologians, and therapists.

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

Music

Jennifer Hamm, Minister of Music: jenniferh@vpc.church A musical heart…

“Speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.” Ephesians 5:19

The scriptures instruct us to worship "With psalms, hymns and spiritual songs." God wants us to have music in our lives. Some of us need music daily just to survive. It can bring us out of our darkest moments and is a key indicator of a heart that is worshiping God. Some people sing beautifully and others, not so much! But that isn’t what matters. What matters is that your heart is singing. We can praise God by singing out loud or creating a melody in our hearts to the Lord. So if God commands us to praise him with song how can you worship without music? I believe that without song, without music, it is difficult to create a space for worship. There are those that believe music is unnecessary, however music is a common thread throughout Gods Word. Music in many styles is important for any Christian whether it is for us to praise God, worship or to just prepare our hearts and minds to receive His message through His Word. I encourage you to not only think about using music in worship on Sundays but also throughout the week and introduce your family to new songs, hymns, and spiritual songs.

Save the Date Gloria by Vivaldi VPC Chancel Choir and professional orchestra Sunday, April 8, 4PM, Sanctuary

Written in 1715, the wonderfully sunny nature of the Gloria is characteristic of all of Vivaldi’s music, giving it an immediate and universal appeal. We are delighted to be joined by members of the Phoenix Symphony. Concert is sponsored by Valley Presbyterian Foundation. Valley Ringers Handbell Choir Rehearsal Wednesdays, 5:30-6:15PM, Handbell Room Julia Tucker, Director Chancel Choir Rehearsal Wednesdays, 7:30PM, Choir Room 7:30-8:30PM, Choir Room

2017 Christmas Cantata

- Jennifer Hamm

Valley Day School

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

2018-2019 Preschool Year enrollment has begun -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 Get your tickets now!

We invite you to join us on Friday, March 23, at the Arizona Country Club, as we party for a cause. All "Fund the Need " proceeds will be donated to families needing assistance through the remarkable work of Family Promise. A Roaring 20's theme, beautiful "new" venue, delicious dinner, exciting auction, live music and dancing promises to be a night you won't want to miss. Mark your calendars and get your tickets now! -Charlee Turner

Purchase tickets online: vpc.church/dinner Contact Penne McKee: pendlepenn@gmail.com, 480-947-0130 Cost: $125 per ticket Foundation 2018/19 Scholarship Applications! Apply online: vpc.church/foundation

While higher education is important for those hoping to grow their learning through College or Technical Training, the cost of college living is up and college costs more than it used to. Since 2010, VPC’s Foundation has offered the Erickson, Kurz and Simmons scholarships to current college students and graduating high school seniors to lessen the financial burden they will incur over the coming academic years. We strongly encourage your student to apply for ascholarship prior to the May 1 deadline. On average, applicants receive $1,000 toward tuition and/or book fees. Since the fund’s formation, 123 scholarships have been presented to 53 students!

TIME, TALENT, & TREASURE church@vpc.church VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES @ VPC ICM Food Drive begins

Sunday, March 4 Return full bags Sunday, March 18 Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church ICM Food & Clothing Bank meets the basic needs of up to 150 families every day, six days a week. Please donate.

Bunny Business March 31, 9-10:30AM, Kiva Field

Hop on down to help out with this fun ALL church community outreach event! We need YOUR help to make this a success! Check out the list of ways to help out and pick a few! Sign up: vpc.church/bunnybusiness

Quilters to make Baptism Quilts

Pastor David Turner: davidt@vpc.church 480-991-6424 ext. 121 If you love to quilt-no matter your experience-and want to make a difference in the lives of our children and their families contact Pastor David Turner.

6PM

Coming in April... Easter Sunday Worship, April 1

6AM, Fountain 9AM*, Sanctuary 10:30AM*, Landes Center 11:45AM, Chapel *Nursery available for children 2y.o. and under.

PW Spring (White Elephant) Rummage Sale Friday, April 6, 7AM - 4PM Saturday, April 7, 8AM - 12PM

Proceeds support missions in our community and around the world.

Gloria by Vivaldi

VPC Chancel Choir and professional orchestra Sunday, April 8, 4PM, Sanctuary Concert is sponsored by Valley Presbyterian Foundation.

Women's Retreat

Friday-Sunday, April 20-22 Cost: $185 The Residence Inn by Marriot in Prescott, AZ Registration: vpc.church/women Kelly Nieto: kellyn@vpc.church The theme is “Be Transformed” and speaker Ele Parrott will share with us about how we are transformed by Christ and how we can help transform others through mission and mentoring.

VPC Leadership News From Session

Leader Spotlight Elder Kirby Kongable Stewardship Committee I was a lawyer for 17 years in Yuma, AZ. I have been a Superior Court Judge in Yuma for 11 years and a Superior Court Commissioner for Maricopa County for 9 years, and am now retired.

There is no report from the February Session meeting, however the report will return in March. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me at 480-368-6567. -Karen Meyer, Clerk of Session

While in Yuma, I was a member of the Session at my church there. My wife, Donna, and I became members of VPC in 2006. I served one term as deacon at VPC, as well.

Visit VPC Session page! vpc.church/session