November vine 2017 1 11 by Valley Presbyterian Church

valley vine

Valley Presbyterian Church November 2017 Volume sixty-two, Number ten Dear friends, What is your favorite service of the year? When I ask members this question, I get two common replies. Often people say “Christmas! I love the candlelight, the carols, the beautiful story of God’s arrival, and the Bethlehem birth.” Many others say, without any hesitation, “Easter, of course! What could be better than sadness turned to joy, life out of death, and Jesus’ great victory over sin and the grave?!” Very occasionally, a member with Pentecostal roots will go against the current and say, “Pentecost! I have to celebrate the power and presence of God’s spirit in his children and his church.” No one ever says “David, my favorite service every year is Stewardship Sunday!” Yet I wonder, which service of the year is God’s favorite? At Christmas, God came near to teach and bless and heal through his Son. At Easter, his mercy and grace triumphed over the darkness. On Pentecost, he equipped and empowered his people. But on Stewardship Sunday, God gets to see the impact of Christmas, Easter, and Pentecost on us. How will we respond to his teaching and healing? How grateful are we for his mercy and grace? How committed are we to his mission? Stewardship measures how we respond to what God has done and what he is doing. Stewardship is the test for the character of our hearts.

There is great joy in generosity because true abundance is not about the inflow, it is a matter of the overflow. VPC is a place of regular miracles. You and I, through the gifts we give, get to be part of every one of them. When the truth of the gospel roots in a young soul, we are part of it. When the hope of eternity comforts an older saint at the close of the day, we are part of it. When homeless families are sheltered, when at risk boys and girls becoming flourishing leaders, when the poor of Malawi find security beyond survival, we are part of it. When the truth of the faith is grasped by a rising generation, and our links to the claim of grace are strengthened, we are part of it. This month, you will consider what to give to God’s work in 2018. As you pray and calculate, mark November 19th on your calendars. That Sunday, we will share the joy that comes through our faith, and the excitement of seeing God at work in and through our church. We will make promises to love, to serve, to comfort, to teach, to disciple, to share, and to venture in the coming year.

Faithfully yours,

One missionary was visiting another in South Korea in a small village. He saw a boy pulling a plow, directed by his elderly grandfather. “Is that common?” he asked his friend. “No,” the missionary said, “but our church was building a mission center and that family decided to sell their ox so they could make a contribution.” “What a sacrifice!” responded the visitor. “That is not what they said when they made the gift,” explained his colleague, “They told me they were very fortunate they had something to sell so they could give back to God.”

6947 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253-5342 Phone: 480-991-6424 Fax: 480-991-6427 Email: church@vpc.church Website: vpc.church

Read the Valley Vine at its new home: VPC.CHURCH/VINE Would you rather receive the monthly Valley Vine via email? Send us your email address and we will get you all set up. The online version of the Vine is full color and can be accessed anywhere, from the email we send and the VPC website. If you are still interested in receiving a printed and mailed version of the Valley Vine contact Katrina Carney, katrinac@vpc.church or 480-991-6424 ext. 118. Printed copies will also be available in the Church Office and all Worship Centers.

Who We Are: A Cooks' Tour 47 years in the making

Cooks' Tour: Hands Across the City, Arms Around the World Friday, November 3, 9AM-3PM Cost for entry: free Luncheon: $20 Home Tour: $20 You are invited to the 47th annual Cooks' Tour! Proceeds will benefit worthy organizations both local and worldwide. Over the past 47 years, Cooks' Tour has raised over $1 million to support a wide variety of needs. You can be a part of this ongoing effort! Attending the event is free, with numerous great items for sale. Want to know more? You can also choose to enjoy: -A tour of two fabulous homes -An Italian lunch from Chef Sandra Gonzales of Whisk & Chop -Shop for unique handmade crafts -Delicious unique kitchen treasures -Beautiful jewelry

Visit the tea table for free refreshments or stop by Just Coffee for a really good cup of coffee. New this year is the Christmas Corner, featuring great holiday-themed items, in the choir room. Christmas cards designed by Tom and Dick Van Arsdale to benefit children in Malawi, the Medical Benevolence Foundation, and MentorKids USA will be available. Lastly, don't forget to stop by the Landes Center to see what great silent auction items are available! Have a great time supporting amazing organizations like: -Helping Hands for Single Moms -Audrey's Angels -Sky Harbor Chaplaincy, and many other miracle makers. -Wandie Hulick & Jeanne Campo, Co-Chairs

Worship @ VPC

VPC SUNDAY WORSHIP SCHEDULE

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

Chapel Sanctuary Landes Center Chapel

November 23, 6:30PM Thanksgiving Eve Service Mountian View Presbyterian Church We join together to give thanks for our families, our church communities, and all that God has blessed us with this year. We hope you can be there as both our churches come together for a great evening.

Keep in touch with VPC

eVine (weekly email): vpc.church/menu/stay-connected Facebook: facebook.com/valleypresbyterian Instagram: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;vpc.churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

PREACHING SCHEDULE November 5* November 12 November 19 November 26

Pastor David Joynt Pastor David Joynt Pastor David Joynt Chris Woodard

*Communion

Fall Ministry Brochure The new Ministry Brochure is out! Grab your copy today to find out all the events and programs through the end of the year.

Highlighted Events

church@vpc.church

47th Annual

Cooks’ Tour COOKS’ TOUR

Friday, November 3 9AM-3PM Learn more & buy tickets: vpc.church/cooks

Commitment Sunday Sunday, November 19 All Worship Services *feel free to bring your pledge cards

Wednesday, November 22 6:30PM, Mt. View Presbyterian Church

ADVENT.ure A great way to start the Christmas season

Sunday, December 3 4:30-6PM, Landes Center

Mission & Service

Chris Woodard, Mission Director: chrisw@vpc.church

Feeding with bread & the Word One of Jesus’s favorite methods of ministry was sharing a meal. It did not matter if you were a sinner or a saint; Jesus wanted to eat with you and meet your basic needs and deep spiritual longings. The dining experience is powerful! This Thanksgiving season we are partnering with ICM for a Thanksgiving food drive, to ensure that people can have this basic need met. We will be collecting food the first three Sundays of November, in time for food to be delivered before Thanksgiving. I pray all people will have food to eat this holiday season and the love of Christ will be shared. Christmas is my favorite time of year, and I am giddy with excitement (yes, I said giddy!) At this year’s MentorKids Christmas party we will give every child their very own Bible. The Mission Team will have Bibles available on the first Sunday in Advent for you to sign and personalize for a child. The Mission Team will be accepting donation to offset the costs of the bibles, and your donations will make sure that every child in the MentorKids program will have the Word of God in their possession. May every child know that they are beloved children of God. -Chris Woodard

Connect

ICM has specifically asked VPC if we can assist them prior to Thanksgiving (we usually help prior to Christmas). Please take a bag and fill it with nonperishable items. Thank you!

Cooks’ Tour 2017 Friday, November 3, VPC campus Home Tour tickets: $20, Luncheon tickets: $20 Learn more and purchase tickets: vpc.church/cooks Co-chairs: Wandie Hulick, 602-316-3372, or Jeanne Campo, 480-994-4116 Over $1 million has been raised over the past 46 years to support mission needs in our church, our community, and throughout the globe. Event includes Home Tour, Luncheon, Costume Jewelry, Craft Boutique, Silent Auction, and Kitchen Treasures. We need your help! It’s an opportunity to give your time, talents, and treasures. We would love your donations.

Gifts of the Heart Christmas Cards

Cards designed by Dick and Tom Van Arsdale. Your gifts will help support these charities: MentorKids for education; Ministry of Hope for hunger and education; and Medical Benevolence Foundation for medical care. Order forms available in the church office.

Pastor Mike Nieto: miken@vpc.church God is bringing people to VPC! One of the great joys of being the Connections Pastor is being involved in the Inquirer Class. This year it has been an amazing experience to meet people from all walks of life in our community.

To see how God is transforming lives and bringing fresh faces, eyes and ideas to our VPC family has been incredibly moving and exciting to witness. Please join me in welcoming our newest members: Bruce Berkley John & Summer Jackson

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

Contact Chris for upcoming social and service projects.

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

Carson Ciggia

Brian & Megan Nesvig

Sundays, 10:25-11:30AM, Fireside Room Empty nesters grow together in faith and fellowship.

Gary & Suellen Edens

Tom & Shirley Simpson

60s-70s: Judith Robins, az29hiker@msn.com

Brian Fisher

Sandra Williams

Mike & Joan Fisher

ICM Thanksgiving Food Drive October 29-November 19 Donation bags available in worship centers

-Pastor Mike Nieto

1st & 2nd Thursdays, 1-2:30PM, Crossing 104 Study, fellowship, and refreshments.

70s+: Wandie Hulick, wild4uofa@aol.com

Sundays, 10:30-11:30AM, Calvin Center November 9: Mexican Train, 1PM, Dinner, 3PM, Fireside Room Cardmaking: November 16, 3PM, Fireside Room

Children & Families

Tina Gilbreath, Children’s Ministry Director: tinag@vpc.church

ADVENT.ure: kick-off Advent November marks the beginning of the holiday season. For some that idea conjures up anxiety, stress, and thoughts of a hectic schedule. Join us this year for a special family evening to kick this season off in a different Christ centered way. Advent starts on December 3. That evening families are invited to gather with us from 4:30-6:30PM. We will be creating a simple modern advent wreath, creating luminarias for Christmas Eve worship, and spending some time as families move through prayer stations. You don’t want to miss out on this opportunity to help your family focus on our Savior as we enter the Christmas season. This event is for the whole family! Please bring an appetizer or dessert to share. A $15 dollar donation, to cover costs, is suggested but not required. RSVP: tinag@vpc.church

-Tina Gilbreath

Students

mini EXPLORERS! after school for kids Ages 3-5 years old October 17-November 14, 2-3PM (no mini-Explorers! October 31)

Join us for this fun class and opportunity to meet other parents of three year olds. This class gives an overview of Sunday School and Family Ministry. In addition, families learn the value and meaning of being a spiritual leader in their home and are provided tips and support for growing into that role.

Take It Home: Kindergarten families-Family Prayer November 5, following 10:30AM children's message Room 415/416 Children connect to God with all their senses. This class encourages parents to pray creatively with their kindergartner as they coach their children on how to pray. Join other families with kindergartners for this fun class.

Take It Home: 4y.o. families-Nightly Blessing November 19, following 10:30 children’s message Room 415/416 Get to know other parents of 4y.o. children at Valley and learn a new way to connect to your child spiritually. This class is designed to teach the benefits of and to equip families for blessing their children nightly.

Joseph Parisi, Student Ministry Director: josephp@vpc.church Serving Others... While it’s always exciting to play “Soda Can Baseball” or a wild game of “Dad Jokes,” many of our students will tell you that their favorite moments occur when serving others.

This past month, students had the opportunity to cook, prepare, and serve a meal for the Family Promise families staying on campus at VPC. In addition to the laughter of kids attempting to cook inside of a commercial kitchen, you could see the joy as students served these families. We will continue to provide ways for students to be involved in serving others- it is part of a foundation for vibrant and sustaining faith. As we continue through the Book of Mark, we will be focusing on the theme of service and this verse, “Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, ‘Anyone who wants to be first must be very last, and the servant of all.” (Mark 9:35) -Joseph Parisi

Student & Parent Small Groups Sundays, 9AM, Landes Basement Sign up online: vpc.church/students Student Ministry Small Groups are where students can engage in learning and talking about faith. Each student will be placed in a small group led by adult volunteers. Parent and student classrooms will be separate, but the curriculum will be the same. Breakfast will be provided after each class for students and parents to come together to fellowship. Email Joseph with any questions.

Jr. High Midweek Mondays, 6PM, Landes Basement Jr. High Midweek is a weekly event focused on fun and excitement. Expect exciting games such as Couch Olympics, Knockerball, and many more! At the end of each night there will be a biblical message that is applicable to each Jr. High student.

High School Midweek Wednesdays, 7PM, Landes Basement High School Midweek is a weekly event focused on fun and building community. Each week there will be adventures, small groups, worship concerts, game nights, and so much more! At the end of each night there will be a biblical message that is applicable to each High School student.

Learn & Grow

Pastor Kelly Nieto: kellyn@vpc.church

Discipleship This Fall, we welcomed Dr. Carter to teach our The Reformation class in recognition of the 500 th anniversary of this significant historical event. When we learn about our brothers and sisters in Christ who have gone before us, we are encouraged by the unity we share in Christ, and we are also challenged to examine our own faith journeys and remain close to the principles of The Reformation: God alone, Scripture alone, Faith alone. Dr. Carter will be joining us again in the Spring to teach about another great man of faith, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a twentieth century pastor and theologian who gave his life for his faith in Christ and in defense of others. Also, look for The Marriage Course to return in Spring! This Fall, several couples enjoyed “date night”, sharing a meal together and taking time to focus on each other. Come and join us! -Pastor Kelly Nieto

Encore University

miken@vpc.church

Encore’s fall term is in full swing! We want to thank those of you who came to our Back to School night on October 3. It was a fun-filled evening with delicious food, amazing live music, beautiful artwork and fellowship. A huge thank you to all our Class Ambassadors who have volunteered their time and talents to assist in the classroom as well as introducing our students to VPC! Look for Encore’s Winter & Spring 2018 Catalog in December! Winter Term: January 23-February 22, 2018 Spring Term: March 6-April 12, 2018 At Encore University we want to equip and empower you to recognize and fulfill the God-given callings in your life! Experience how Encore University can be a part of God’s plan for you. Contact me or Shelby Trimaloff: encoreuniv.org or 480-991-6424 ext. 164. - Pastor Mike Nieto

Wired that Way* Wednesdays, October 25 - December 6 (No class Nov. 22) 6:30-7:30PM, Fireside Room Registration & Childcare: vpc.church/classes, or kellyn@vpc.church Facilitators: Kelly Nieto, Elizabeth Weiss

Do you know that you were “wired” a certain way by God? God made you with certain personality traits that affect how you interact with God, others, and yourself. You will learn about what these “wires” mean, how to stay mentally healthy, and how to glorify God with who you are! This is a ten-week class, so we will have Part I this Fall and Part II January 17- February 7, 2018!

Advent Study: The Trinity* Wednesdays, November 29 - December 13 6:30–7:30PM, Calvin Center, Free Registration & Childcare: vpc.church/classes, or kellyn@vpc.church Facilitators:Mike & Kelly Nieto

The season of Advent is a time of anticipation, waiting for God’s kingdom to come. Each week, we will explore the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit in preparing to celebrate Christ’s birth!

MOPS

Molly Livak: mollyl@vpc.church Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) in October

Haven’t had the chance to get to MOPs this year yet? It’s not too late to join us! Do I have to have a preschooler to attend? Nope, as long as you are a mom, you are welcome. Wherever you are in motherhood, whether newly pregnant or the mom of a 1st grader, we’d love to have you come check us out; we have a fabulous fall line up that you won’t want to miss! Chris Moss, an amazing educator and speaker, will be with us on November 17. She has been mentoring moms for over 14 years and prides herself on bridging generations with hope and understanding- what better topic to lead us into our Thanksgiving holiday with our families and friends? I hope to see YOU in November! -Molly Livak

November MOPS Friday, November 17, 9-11AM, Room 415/416 Register for MOPS: vpc.church/mops Childcare: nursery@vpc.church We offer childcare for children (up to age 5) on a spaceavailable basis. During the meetings, your little Moppet will enjoy the classrooms and playground of Valley Day School which is on our campus. All caregivers have been fingerprinted and have had background checks.

Men’s Ministry

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

You're a needed ingredient Recently, I read an article stating that men’s participation in church life is one necessary component of churches with healthy and growing ministries. However, research suggests that men’s involvement with church is on a steady decline. Moreover, research suggests that men who are committed to their church are generally more content with life and people enjoy their company more. Men, what I find encouraging about this research is that we matter. Our input and commitment to our church community has enduring and impactful results. Men, know that I am praying for you. I am praying that the Holy Spirit is working in your life. I am praying that God is leading you into new and greater adventures with our church community. I am praying that daily you can reflect the love of Jesus in your sphere of influence. Men, know that you are not alone. There is a community of men ready to engage, equip and empower you in your discipleship journey. -Chris Woodard

Women’s Ministry Living with gratitude The women of VPC love to fellowship with one another! There are large events, Women’s Breakfast and the Retreat, and every week they gather at different times and places to fellowship with one another in bible study, moms groups, PW circles, and spending time in prayer. Fellowship is such an important part of being in a community! On Friday, November 3, another important event, Cooks' Tour, is a day of connection opportunities: spending time with one another at the luncheon, buying unique and handmade gifts for loved ones, and taking a few minutes over tea/coffee and cookies to say hello to new people. It is also not too late to join a Women’s Bible Study on Thursday night or Friday morning, or various PW Circles! Come and join a group to share with, learn with, and pray with. -Pastor Kelly Nieto Save the Date: Women’s Ornament Exchange, Sunday, December 10, 4-6PM. RSVP to Kelly for location and address.

Third Tuesday of the Month Breakfast November 21, 6:30AM RSVP by Sunday prior, vpc.church/men All men are invited to join together the third Tuesday of the month for breakfast at VPC. Gather at 6:30AM and breakfast will begin at 6:45AM. We will hear testimonies from each other and will focus in on our topic for the month.

Top Golf Thursday, November 2, 6:30PM Cost: $45/hour split amongst the men in each bay More information coming soon: vpc.church/men Gentlemen, join us for an evening of fun! Top Golf is a great place to unwind, get to know other guys better, or catch up with those you haven’t seen in a while. No actual experience with golf is necessary!

Men's Adult Basketball Thursdays, 6:30-7:30AM, Landes Center, free Questions? Email Mike: 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 Women’s Bible Study*

Thursdays, 6:30-8PM (Nov. 9 & 30, Dec. 14) Fridays, 9-10:30AM (Nov. 10, Dec. 1 & 15) Room 415-416, Free Registration & Childcare: vpc.church/classes, or kellyn@vpc.church Facilitators: Beth Glady (Thursday), Kelly Nieto (Friday) Author and Bible teacher Jen Pollock Michel takes us on a journey through Scripture to uncover the meaning of home. We’ll discover our holy yearning for a place to belong, how God provides that place for us, and how we can model His hospitality in our lives each day.

Presbyterian Women (PW) Cooks’ Tour 2017, presented by PW, for missions around us Friday, November 3, VPC campus, Free Home Tour tickets: $20, Luncheon tickets: $20 Learn more and purchase tickets: vpc.church/cooks PW Circles Tuesday, November 7 Mary: 9:30AM, Westminster Village Saguaro Room Wednesday, November 8 Esther: 9:30AM, Edie Kelsall's home Lydia: 9:30AM, Calvin Center Sarah: 12PM, Room 409 PW Luncheon and Speaker November 15, 11:30AM, Landes Center, Cost: $10 RSVP: 480-991-6424 by November 10 Heard Museum, Ladies of the Canyons True story of remarkable women who left the security and comforts of genteel Victorian society and journeyed to the American Southwest.

Care & Support

David Turner, Pastor: davidt@vpc.church

Deacon’s New Ministry Ministry-taking care of otherscan never be stagnant; it must be dynamic. VPC's Deacons have been effective serving and showing compassion through their work, but it's important to periodically evaluate what we do as we look at new ways God might be calling us to serve the needs of our community. With this in mind, the Deacons are expanding their ministry to include “After Care” Ministry starting in 2018. This ministry will be comprised of active Deacons and members of our congregation. They will provide immediate follow-up contact to those released from area hospitals, rehabilitation clinics and those who have experienced a death in their family. They will provide encouragement, prayer support, and supply requested information for additional programs such as Stephen Ministry, Grief Support, Tasty Spoon Ministry, and our Home Visitation Ministry. If additional help is needed, this new ministry will be equipped to supply information regarding home health care, transportation, and other health related support groups. -Pastor David Turner

Mental Health

Deacon Ministry Highlight: Tasty Spoon

Jeanine Nesvig: 480-948-5840 or jeaninenesvig@gmail.com Tasty Spoon provides meals to those in need. Whether due from release from hospital or rehab center, birth of a new baby, or simply going through a tough time, this ministry provides meals and feeds the heart. Under the leadership of Jeanine Nesvig and her team of dedicated Deacons, we have adapted this ministry to better meet the needs of our congregation. The committee wants to respond individually to food requests and deliver fresh food to those in need rather than stock the freezer with food that may not be used. We count on you – the congregation – to contact someone who you believe is in need of a meal. Please contact Jeanine for more information. VPC's 2020 incoming Deacons Bob Combs Diane Coulter Mark Delahanty Tish Delahanty Jan Fetters Brian Fisher

Rowena McAllister Elizabeth Mills Jill Parisi Dave Shephard Margaret Tucker Polly Turpin

Remembrances Our church family extends its Christian sympathy to the family and friends of Dick Cober, Joan Herman, Jean Hodges, and Ruthe Small.

Elizabeth Weiss: esweiss@gmail.com

Coping with Stress During the Holidays (adapted from the Mayo Clinic resources)

• Keep expectations manageable. Try to set realistic goals for yourself. Pace yourself. Organize your time. • Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. Don't put the entire focus on just one day.

Elizabeth Weiss, Pastor David Turner, & Susan Krecker at the 2017 NAMI Walk

• The holiday season does not banish reasons for feeling sad or lonely; there is room for these feelings, too, even if the person chooses not to express them. • Leave "yesteryear" in the past and look toward the future. Life brings changes. Don't set yourself up in comparing today with the "good ol' days." • Do something for someone else. Try volunteering some of your time to help others. Pray for others.

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

• Enjoy activities that are free, such as taking a drive to look at holiday decorations, going window shopping or doing an activity with children. Pray!

Living Grace Support Group

• Don't drink to excess, it will increase your stress level.

Family Support website:

• Try something new. Celebrate the holidays in a new way. • Spend time with supportive and caring people. Reach out and make new friends, or connect with someone you haven't heard from in while.

NAMI-Family Support Group

Most importantly - save time for yourself! Recharge your batteries! Let others share in the responsibility of planning activities. Spend quiet time in prayer.

2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 6-8PM, Oasis Community Church Information: jilliannhogan@gmail.com or 480-234-7073 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

outcome is thrilling.

Whether it is a praise team, a choir, a soloist, an instrumentalist, or a small ensemble, each expression of music helps us worship in a different way. The exciting thing for our church is that we can collaborate with all of our musicians in worship and the

We had several musical collaborations in October. In our combined service in October we brought together the Worship Team, Chancel Choir, and EXPLORERS! kids choir, working together to worship our Lord. On Reformation Sunday, the Handbell Choir, Chancel Choir and congregation collaborated on “A Mighty Fortress,” and Larry Linkin and Julia Tucker played beautifully together. Valley Singers bless us with their voices each week and our new trumpet player, Josiel, fits in so well with our Worship Team. But is God calling you to participate further? Do you have a gift you want to share with VPC? A hidden talent you’d like to explore? It’s not too late to join one of our many musical groups. Come see how you can deepen your relationship with Christ through music. - Jennifer Hamm

Valley Day School

Give Thanks! Thanksgiving Eve Service* Wednesday, November 22, 6:30PM Mountain View Presbyterian Church Sanctuary We join together to give thanks for our families, our church communities, and all that God has blessed us with this year. We hope you can be there as both our churches come together for a great evening. *Childcare provided

Valley Ringers Handbell Choir Wednesdays, 5:30-6:15PM, Bell Room Youth Choir Wednesdays, 6:15-7PM, Choir Room Come join us and sing in a fun, comfortable, encouraging atmosphere!

Chancel Choir Rehearsal Wednesdays, 7:30PM, Choir Room Join us for a season! You are welcome to be a part of our Christmas Concert.

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

First Teachers Preschool is often a child’s first experience in a classroom setting. It is a time when children begin to develop independence and social skills as they play and explore surrounded by other students. They are quickly introduced to a new adult – their teacher. For many, this is the first adult, besides their parents or grandparents, they will get to know well. When children begin preschool at Valley Day School, their first teachers are often Julie Shover and Michelle Chavez. This dynamic duo has been teaching together for 16 years, and fortunately for us, they don’t have plans to stop anytime soon. Julie and Michelle teach some of our youngest friends – our two and three year olds. Their classroom is filled with brightly colored kid-made artwork and endless opportunities to play. After 16 years in this classroom, Michelle loves the connections she has made with children and their families during that time. “These families become part of my family, and we become part of theirs.” She shares that she loves watching children discover something for the very first time. “I love that light bulb moment. When their eyes light up over something new.”

Her teaching partner, Julie, enjoys empowering children and watching the growth that occurs in each of her students over the course of the year. “It’s hard when they leave our classroom. It’s emotional to let them go and pass them on to the next group of teachers. They come back to school the next year a little bit older and a little bit taller, but they remember us. They see us on the playground, and they run up to say hello.” These two women are part of the vibrant history of Valley Day. They leave a legacy of love with the children who are fortunate enough to spend time in their classroom, and they invite all alumni to come back and visit them anytime. While there are many different things these women could do with their time, we’re so grateful that they’ve chosen to make their home right here with us. -Meghan Gottfredson

Michelle Chavez & Julie Shover 9

Foundation

Charlee Turner, Foundation Administrator: charleet@vpc.church What's Your Legacy?

On October 16, the Foundation hosted our Annual Donor Appreciation Luncheon to thank our Legacy Society members for their foresight and commitment to Valley Presbyterian Church’s ministries. Their future gifts through estate plan or will allow for the security and continued growth of the church’s finances. This year, so far, $1,056,604 has been contributed to our endowments! Legacy Society membership is open to anyone and requires no immediate or minimum contribution. We are diverse in our ministry, offering a variety of funds to donate to such as our Music Fund, Scholarship and First Fruits Fund, as well our Ministry and Property Funds. What’s your Legacy? To learn more, please attend our Wise Giving Panel Sunday, November 12 or contact Foundation Administrator, Charlee Turner, at extension 168. -Charlee Turner

Save the Date: Foundation Legacy Dinner March 23, 2018 Interested? Email Charlee: charleet@vpc.church A fun-filled evening of auction, dance, and laughter! Join us for a night that can change the life of our church.

Volunteer

Time, Talent, & Treasures

church@vpc.church

Presbyterian Women Spring Sale (white elephant) is looking for donations! Saturday, November 11, 9-11AM Cooks’ Tour Shed, Lynetta Norris: ljoynorris@aol.com Donate your old treasures to support mission needs in our community. PW is collecting items as they prepare for the Spring Sale. Have items you would otherwise donate to Goodwill or Red Cross? Drop them off here instead! PW Spring Sale will be April 6-7, 2018.

Sunday School teachers Tina Gilbreath: tinag@vpc.church 3 years-5th grade, 9:15-10:15 & 10:45-11:45AM Training and lessons provided. Contact Tina for more information.

Deacon At Home Flower Distribution Don Heck: don@donaldheckllc.com In need of your small bud vases for flower arrangements prepared for VPC's at home members. Drop off vases, "attention Tammy," in the Church Office.

VPC is looking for a part-time on-call weekend custodian See page 11 under Finances for more information.

Wise Giving Panel: Grow your generosity

Sunday, November 12, 10 & 11:45AM, Room 415/416 Speakers: Jonathon Morrison – Attorney and Charitable Giving Specialist Tony Pescatore – CPA and Charitable Giving Specialist Jesus calls us to be generous givers, yet also challenges us to be wise stewards of His gifts. This informative workshop will discuss how to be a wise steward over your charitable donations. From understanding different types of giving methods, tax strategies, and increasing your donations impact, find out how to give more but have it cost less.

VPC Boy Scouts Troop 441 “Scout Talent Put To Use” Boy Scout Troop 441 is having a great fall! We have had three more scouts complete their requirements to achieve the Eagle Rank. The most recent Eagle project was completed by Kees te Velde. He completed a wonderful project at Horses Help, organizing scouts to complete over 100 hours of volunteer labor. The goal for the project was to pave a garden for Horses Help, not just to make it look better but also to accommodate Alzheimer's patients. Horses Help does a lot of work with the elderly but have never made that part of their facility wheelchair accessible. Troop 441 and VPC should be very proud of this young man’s accomplishment.

Coming in December... Advent.ure: Advent Wreath & Luminaria Party December 3, 4:30-6:30PM, Landes Center

Bring an appetizer or dessert to share, and join us for an evening of fun and fellowship! Sign up to make an Advent Wreath! Come help assemble nearly 1000 luminarias for Christmas Eve. $15 donation.

Dove Tree Remembrance Service December 5, Memorial Garden, 2PM

If you have lost a loved one, feel free to come to the Garden, write the name of a loved one on a dove, place it on the tree, and offer a silent prayer. Tree goes up November 26. Paper doves and pens are available in the Memorial Garden.

Son of the Highest: A Christmas Cantata Monday, December 11, 7PM, Sanctuary, Free

VPC Chancel Choir featuring Phoenix Symphony members.

Christmas Eve Services Sunday, December 24 3, 5, 7, & 9PM, Sanctuary

This year Christmas Eve lands on a Sunday! Join us for a great evening as we celebrate the birth of Jesus. There will be one Sunday morning service on Christmas Eve 9:30AM, Sanctuary

VPC Leadership News From Session

Leader Spotlight

Session accepted 14 new members on October 22. Children's Ministry Director Tina Gilbreath brought Session up to date on the progress being made in Children and Family Ministry. The Ministry continues to increase the number of children participating as well as the number of families taking advantage of programs to equip them on spiritual leadership. She is thankful for all the volunteers committed to make the Ministry a success. Tom Ambrose gave the Foundation Annual report to Session. The amount managed by the Foundation has grown to $6 million. Sixty percent of the base is unrestricted and is used to directly supplement the VPC budget. This year, $140,000 has been directed towards VPC programs and missions. There are 18 Restricted Funds which supplement various activities of the church. This past spring, 12 students were awarded scholarships. The Session approved using $2,883 from the Foundation’s Stephen Ministry Fund to send two current Stephen Ministers to a Leadership Conference in the spring. United Healthcare was selected as the provider for medical benefits for eligible lay employees effective January 1, 2018. In September, 2017, the Session moved to discontinue providing medical benefits for eligible lay employees through the Board of Pensions. Two different insurance brokers researched more affordable options for group coverage. F&O and P&O worked very hard studying and analyzing the options. The Session moved to designate 50% of Nancy Miller’s bequest to the Foundation Music Endowment Fund and the other 50% toward the Chapel stained glass window refurbishment and protective covering. The Family Promise Account #9120 will fund $1,000 for the Family Promise “Hot Dogs and Hygiene” event and $2,000 for a sponsorship for the Family Promise Golf Tournament. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me at 480-368-6567. -Karen Meyer, Clerk of Session

VPC finances year-to-date as of September 30, 2017 Income

Actual $

Budget $

Variance $

Faith Giving Other Income Total Income

1,285,469 258,056 1,543,525

1,251,400 286,170 1,537,570

34,069 -28,114 5,955

Expense Pastoral Ministry Admin & Facility Mission, Outreach, Cong. Care Christian Education Encore Worship & Music Total Expense

362,329 762,019 138,511 182,117 64,132 135,427 1,644,535

354,517 773,285 146,598 192,201 89,668 144,760 1,701,029

-7,812 11,266 8,087 10,084 25,536 9,333 56,494

Net Income less Expense

-101,010

-163,459

62,449

Elder Darrah MacDougall Children & Youth Committee Chair 2017

My husband Ed and I have been members of VPC since 2010. We were brought to this wonderful church through the Day School. I have two children, Jack who is 11 and Lily 9. In the past I have been involved in Sunday School, the Day School, VBS, and now as an elder. My husband and I also participate in Dinner for Eight. I am very happy to call VPC my church!

Visit VPC Session page! vpc.church/session