Professional Documents
Culture Documents
IN TOUCH
Fountain Hills, AZ
From Our Pastor PUTTING AWAY THE TINSEL!
I think theres something wrong with my calendar for February. How can this be? Im asking myself. How is it that Ash Wednesday is so suddenly upon us? Why, just yesterday I found a couple refugee pine needles under the Family Room sofa. They still carried the scent of Christmas with them when I put them in the trash can. Theres no way this calendar can be right! Im just not ready to leave the spruce of the Christmas tree behind and embrace the dogwood of the cross. And, do I really have to trade in those bright new party clothes for that rough and threadbare prayer shawl? Already. . . ? Lent separates the steadfast from the sentimental, the faithful from the merely hopeful. The fact of the matter is that, if weve been looking closely, the glow of the starlight revealed the shadow of the cross already looming over the manger. Easter is the event that makes Christmas worth celebrating. Poet Ann Weems tells us what our hearts already suspect in her poem Put Away the Tinsel: PUT AWAY THE TINSEL When Lent comes, you have to put away the tinsel; You have to take down your Christmas tree, and stand out in the open. . . vulnerable. You either are or you arent. You either believe or you dont. You either will or you wont. And, O Lord, how we love the stable and the star! When Lent comes the angels voices begin their lamenting, And we find ourselves in a courtyard where we must answer Whether we know him or not. -Ann Weems Jesus beckons us from the stable up the path toward that hilltop. . . from Christmas on to Easter. The travelling is hard it passes through Lent and it leads through that courtyard. But the promise is great. Were called to be the people of the cross. Were called to be the Easter People -- so lets put away the tinsel and get on with it . Grace and Peace,
February 2013
Our Vision:
We hear our LORDs commandments -- calling us to be a city on a hill; reflecting light into Fountain Hills and all the world beyond, giving glory to God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
In Touch
OUR CHURCH STAFF Rev. Bill Good
Pastor/Head of Staff
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Focus on Finance
Dec. Income Dec. Expense $ 39,935 $ 38,444 Budget Budget $ 39,010 $ 33,670
Debby DeBernardi
Director Christian Formation
Marta Ludwig
Administrative Coordinator
Yr to date Income
$ 386,984
Budget Budget
$ 399,600 $ 410,000
Debbie Fisher
Director of Music Ministry
Dorothy Parris
Pianist
Caryl Bates
Organist
Lynn Medley
Custodian
CHURCH TREASURER John Skewes CHURCH SESSION Class of 2013 Bob Lull Susan Owens Jim Roy Donna Yordy Class of 2014 Gail Botsford Jerry Cain Carol Hencz Jerry Maples Letha Neely Class of 2015 Brooks Benjamin John Brockelman Jake Eberspacher Helen Quigley Terri Schmidt Chris Young BOARD OF DEACONS Moderator: Ruby Pearson Class of 2013 Yvonne Ellingson Sandy Heunisch John Schopbach Donna Sims Class of 2014 Irene Cain Phyliss Kern Linda Maples Helen Roesch Class of 2015 Ben Fast Jack Morris Ruby Pearson Bev Watters ******
Rev. Glenn Atchinson Pastor Emeritus
December was a pivotal month for the Church as the Budget anticipated a strong uptick in Income. Fortunately, on an overall basis we exceeded our projected Income Budget by $925, although that was the result of a robust collection of Contributions and not a rebound of our Pledges, which ended the year behind expectations. Our 2012 unfavorable variance in Income is the byproduct of Pledges coming in well under Plan. On the Expenses side, the timing differences expected to flip around in December indeed did so, and for 2012 Expenses were right on target. Thanks for all your help in 2012, and we look forward to an exciting 2013. Respectfully, John Skewes, Treasurer
On the Inside:
From Our Pastor. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . . . .. . . . .. . . . .. . . . . Focus on Finance .. .. .. .. .. . .. . .. . Annual Sweetheart Brunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . Concert Series 2013 .. . . .. .. . . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . .. Mission Ministry . . . . . .. .. .. .. . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . Presbyterian Women .. .. .. . .. . . . . .. . .. . . .. . . .. Membership News.. .. .. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arizona Opry: Save the Date.. .. .. . . . . . . .. .. . . . . . .. NEW PW Afternoon Circle.. .. . . . . .. . . . . .. Special Seminar .. . . . .. . .. .. .. . . .. .. . . . . . . . Stewardship .. .. .. . . ... .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . home by another way .. .. .. .. . .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. . .... .. Ordination & Installation of officers. .. . .. .. . . . . . . . .. Christian Formation . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .. .. . .. .. . . . . . From the Director of Christian Formation .. . . . . . . . . . Music Ministry .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. BLOG: Check it out! .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . Library Footnotes.. .. . .. . . . . . . Need Accurate Addresses .. .. .. .. . .. . . .. .. . . Poem by Terry Martin .. .. ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spotlight...Did You Know? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Blanket Plus Sunday .. .. . .. .. .. .. . .. . . .. .. . . Necrology for 2012 .. .. . . .. .. . .. . .. . .. Community Munch & Music.. .. .. . . . .. .. . . . . . . . .. ... February Birthdays .. .. .. . . .. . 100th Birthday photo .. .. .. .. . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . 1 2 3 3 4 6 8 8 8 9 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 16 17 18 18 19 19 19 20
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February 2013
Sweetheart Brunch
ATTENTION The 2013 Sweethearts Brunch Saturday, February 9, 2013 10:00 AM
This event has become one of the great social traditions of Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church. This is the time when the women of our church are treated to a delicious brunch and some wonderful entertainment in our Fellowship Center. This years brunch will be better than ever. Jim Bates has planned an outstanding event. In fact, you will be pleasantly surprised by the program he has lined up. Dont miss this chance to show your special lady how much you appreciate her. Men, do not be tardy. This could be a sellout! Tickets for you and your sweetheart will be available for sale on January 27 and February 3, following worship service. You can also buy tickets during normal working hours at the Church office from January 28 through February 6.
2013
Matilda & Patrick Murray (Ventriloquist, Puppeteer & Humorist) JAMAICAN ME LAUGH
Features the brilliant comedy star, the Jamaican bombshell Matilda, Jamaicas #1 Comedienne and her sidekick, Second City trained, Patrick Murray, a flawless Ventriloquist, Puppeteer & Humorist - This laugh filled, multi-cultural show highlights the sexy, sassy, vibrant & outrageous observations of this hip comedienne. Lots of family style, clean & age appropriate humor for all to enjoy. There also might be a special guest as well. Tuesday, February 19, 2013
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In Touch
Mission Ministry
hygiene kits, as well as have people available in times of disasters. This organization was there to help with Hurricane Katrina several years ago as well as on the East Coast during the super storm Sandy. This is just a small way we can help those people who are affected by natural disasters. See page 18 for more details.
Terri Schmidt and Susan Owens, Elders You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven. Matthew 5:14 We here in the mission ministry are letting our lights shine. We are striving to let the world know we care and want to help. If mission is something you feel a calling towards, let Susan Owens or Terri Schmidt know. We meet on the second Monday of the month at 4:00 pm in the conference room. We would love to have you join us.
Blankets Plus
February is our month for Blankets Plus. On Sunday February 17th Barbara and Gary Oakeson will get in front of our congregation and explain this powerful mission. Then on Sunday February 24th we will have a collection to raise money for this organization. This organization purchases blankets, medical supplies, school kits, personal
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In Touch
Mission Ministry
...Continued from page 4
Clothing Donations
We continue to collect clothes for the needy. We will donate them to either Extended Hands Food Bank or Save the Family. These are both organizations that get these clothes to the people who need them. You can drop these clothes off at the office or contact Susan Owens or Terri Schmidt.
Heifer Project
We will have a Kick-off for our Heifer Project in April. We will let you know next month what to expect from this. At this time, we are working on some fun and exciting ways to raise money for this worthwhile project. This International project helps so many countries and people in so many ways and we are excited to join in on doing Gods work. These are some of our projects that are currently in the works. If any of these things sound interesting to you and you would like to help, you can let Susan Owens or Terri Schmidt know and we will be glad to include you. As I close this months newsletter, I want to thank all of you who have been so generous with your time as well as your money. With your help we will continue to do Gods work in our mission ministry. May God bless you all.
Myself and the Marines of 2/7 Weapons Company thank you for yours and the support of the Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church. We greatly appreciate these letters and, I wish i could send you the picture. We have all of the morale boosting letters taped up onto our wall for everyone to enjoy. God Bless, Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year! : ) Michael E.
Hey Donna, Amber sent me another e-mail asking me to thank you again for her package and cards and to tell you how much the support means to her. So from her and me........THANK YOU!!!!!!!! Happy Epiphany, Jan
-Author unknown
The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc
Dear Donna - Thank you so very much for the box of goodies you sent me while I'm deployed here in Afghanistan. I'm making good use of the puzzle book you sent during are long hours of down time and the people magazine was fun to read. My platoon also really enjoyed reading the cards you sent along and they tell me to tell you thank you for the support. it always means a lot to us and makes us very proud to serve over here knowing there are so many people back home in the states praying and supporting us during our deployment. I hope you and your family has a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. HM3 Walker, Timothy
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In Touch
Presbyterian Women
Presbyterian Women Coordinating Team for 2012-2013 Moderator: Ilene Berg Mission Coordinator: Mary Alice Bivens Vice-Moderator (Program): Susan Lickman Historian/Librarian: Barbara Oakeson Secretary: Linda Warren Membership/Yearbook Coordinator: Maria Berry Treasurer: Maria Berry Bible Study Coordinator: Evelyn Hrunek Publicity: Terry Martin Search Committee: Linda Capron Morning Circle Leader: Carol Fuls Evening Circle Leaders: Maria Berry & Jeanene Afternoon Circle Leader: Martha Baxter Schopbach
Winter Gathering
Aging Gracefully with Proper Exercise
Aging Gracefully with Proper Exercise, speaker Dale Yavitt, Community Health Educator entertained and educated us about how to prevent falls while going about our everyday routine, both inside and outside the home. Tips were very unique not just the tips we know and needed to be reminded to follow. Dale was such an inspiration in her willingness and no nonsense application of a tremendous knowledge base on improving our aging gracefully. Dale has been with Scottsdale
Healthcare since 1986 as a Respiratory Therapist until 1995. Dale moved to Community Health Services Department as Screening Coordinator, where she has designed and coordinated all early detection and prevention screening programs for Scottsdale Healthcare. In her role as Community Health Educa- Dale Yavitt tor, Dale works with schools and different community organizations throughout the greater Scottsdale area. She has developed and coordinated prevention programs with our community partners. We also learned that Dale represents Community Health Services in the Fit City Community Collaborative. As a trainer, CPR, AED and First Aid instructor (through American Heart Association), Matter of Balance (MOB) for Seniors, these units have positively affected countless lives. Through the actions of MRC leaders, volunteers, and partner organizations, public health in this country and especially our home community of Fountain Hills was strengthened, local vulnerabilities were reduced and communities grew more resilient. What an informative, positive message to take away with tips on Aging Gracefully! Thank You Dale for giving us a plan - OK No Zumba dancing, but that Balance training and Yoga, I am looking into it asap. OH! Dale probably would not approve of the desserts we ate! After dinner the Pearwood Recorders, led by Barbara
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PW continued continued from page 6 Wyman, provided a mellifluous musical program. The pieces were soothing and certainly gave us time to enjoy our desserts and reflect on the gracefulness that music and physical strengthening can bring to our lives. It was a perfect end to a beautifully planned and executed evening. Appalachian Mission Trip donations were on the beautifully decorated tables and thanks to Ilene for such an informative piece - it was much appreciated! The program committee under the leadership of Susan Lickman plans the entertainment and PW plans the business meeting. Carry In Salad Supper? Well, it looked more like an elegant interlude with friends! The Evening Circle provided dessert, soft drinks and rolls.
February 2013
Weekender Backpack
We continue to need volunteers to help with this vital and needed Program. Call Mary Alice Bivens 837-4857.
Dr. Randy Christensen - a Medical Marvel HOOKED ON BOOKS will meet at 9:30 am Wed. Feb. 20th at the home of Jo Ann Spaulding, 11647 N. Sycamore Dr., FH. Jan Hoff will review the book The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh. Members will be asked to name their favorite flower and color. For the March meeting all attending are asked to try and have read the book Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron hall and Denver Moore . We will have a group discussion of this book which is available in the church library and is on the Presbyterian Womens reading list for this year. Most have heard a review of the book by Jan Hoff at past gathering so if it isnt possible to read the book please come and join the discussion anyway. At all meetings attendees are invited to bring books to pass on or share.
In Touch
Membership
If youre not yet a member of our Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church family, but have been attending for a while, we want you to know that we value each and every one of you and we are very happy to have you with us. Maybe you are interested in membership but are unsure how this works, this article will show you how. *If you are attending our church and dont have membership in another church, you can join our church by profession of faith and receiving the Sacrament of Baptism or, if youve already been baptized, you can join by reaffirmation of faith in Jesus Christ. *If you belong to another church, but would like to transfer your membership to our church, we can arrange for a letter of transfer from your current membership church to ours. *If you are a winter visitor and are an active member of another church back home, you can become an affiliate member at our church here and maintain your full active membership there. An affiliate member is entitled to all of the rights and privileges of active members with the exception of the right to vote and hold office. We periodically have inquiry meetings 10:30 am in the Fellowship Center. The meeting lasts about one hour and if you choose to become a member, we would present you to Session and the congregation on an upcoming Sunday. Please feel free to contact Gail Botsford at 412-613-3312 or call the church office at 480-837-1763.
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When you do that you will get news feeds directly from our site whenever anything new is added. It is just another way to stay connected.
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February 2013
Special Seminar
Embracing Aging
Rescheduled
Aging is not a topic we readily talk about; but well all get there if we live long enough. Growing old gracefully is the expression we often hear but seldom embrace or experience. As we all journey forward into those golden years few of us are really ready to take all the steps necessary for them to meet our needs. Questions remain: Who will care for me when I no longer am able to care for myself? How will I deal with giving up my independence when everyone thinks I should no longer drive my car? What happens when my children or someone else start to make decisions for me about my health or welfare? Will my money meet my needs? Who cares for me if it doesnt? Does my earthly body become a spiritual body? Do I need to make known my wishes for what happens to me when I die? Embracing Aging is the topic of a seminar to be held at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 16, 2013, in the Fellowship Center of the Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church. Stephanie Bivens, an elder law attorney, will discuss the legal aspects and ramifications of aging. The Rev. Bill Good will discuss the spiritual aspects and needs. There will be time for questions to be answered and concerns shared. This timely and challenging seminar is cosponsored by the Presbyterian Women and the Mens Fellowship of FHPC and is free and open to all who wish to learn how to embrace aging without fear and trepidation. Your R.S.V.P. by calling the Church office at 480-837-1763 is much appreciated in order to accommodate all who wish to attend. Refreshments will be available and a free-will offering to cover expenses will be welcomed.
Stewardship
ONE ANSWER TO HELPING OUR CHURCHS FINANCIAL NEEDS
There is a simple way to help cover some of FHPCs operating expenses. That is for each of us to fulfill our churchs Per Capita obligation to Presbytery. Each church in the Presbytery of Grand Canyon is responsible for an annual payment of $29.50 per member. In our case we are obliged to pay $8,732 for our 296 members. Traditionally most of us have not contributed to make up for this cost. Last year our individual contributions towards offsetting this expense approximated $2,700. In other words, about $6,000 was taken out of our church budget to cover this expenditure. If it is possible please consider making an additional contribution to cover the per capita amount of $29.50 for every member you represent. Simply note on your check that it is a Per Capita payment. This is a time when each of us can help in funding the many good things taking place in our church. Thank you so much for your consideration. -Jerry Maples, Stewardship Chair
Lenten hope
Lent is an occasion for us to jouney with Christ. . . into tomorrow. For you never walk with Christ long but what the dawn breaks, the sun shines and hope breaks through.
-C. Neil Straight
In Touch In Touch
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February 2013
Class of 2015 Ordination & Installation Elders: Deacons: Brooks Benjamin Ben Fast John Brockelman Jack Morris Jr. Helen Quigley Ruby Pearson Terri Schmidt Bev Watters Chris Young Jake Eberspacher
Jen Young was recognized for all her generous volunteer help with Congregational Life & Fellowship, Deacons, and Concert Series over the last several years and was officially designated an Honorary Deacon. A special name badge was ordered for her, unfortunately it did not arrive in time for the presentation on January 13 at the 9:00 am worship service.
In Touch
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Christian Formation
Blessed Beginnings Ministry
Here we are into the 2nd month of 2013 and hopefully our cold winter weather is over so we can all enjoy Carol Hencz, Elder some bright warm Arizona sun!!! We have also begun the changes and additions that we told you would be coming to our church life. Do stop, check out and join in any of our many functions. We welcome all who wish to participate. Here is what is going on at Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church: (formerly offered on Sunday Morning at 9:00 am) The former class study for this group has been replaced with our new Intergenerational Service which is being held from 11:15 12:15 pm. We are offering Blessed Beginnings Ministry for ages infants - kindergarten if families choose not to keep younger ones with them or if a child needs extra attention. We will always offer more to provide a Christian ministry with children - even the babies.
The Way (formerly Wednesday evening Family Night) On January 16th we started a 6 week session (Surprised by Hope) which will take us past Ash Wednesday. Mark your calendar and plan to join us.
The elementary kids are continuing with The Big God Story in a large/small group format. Meeting from 5-6 pm. They have begun the New Year with the lesson theme: God Calls us to a Greater Purpose as the kids enter into the story of David and Jonathan. The Junior High and Senior High will continue with their programming. We all meet in the Fellowship Center at 6:00 pm for an evening meal and fellowship time before splitting up at 6:30 pm for our classes. If you come for dinner we ask for a small donation of $5.00 per adults. (All children eat free). Come and join us for a real family gathering of food and knowledge.
An exciting eulogy
Some men were talking about death and dying when this question came up: What would you want people to say about you at your funeral? One replied, Id want people to say, He was a great and compassionate humanitarian who cared about those in need. A second said, Id want people to say, He was a good father and husband, whose life was a fine example for others to follow. A third answered, Id like them to say, Look, hes moving!
us as we continue to explore Johns Gospel and the relevance it has to our individual lives in the world of today. Attendance varies but we normally have about twenty-five people. We hope you will take advantage and participate.
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February 2013
Youth Mission this Summer is the Presbyterian Youth Triennium held only once every three years. Along with over 5000 Presbyterian youth our teens will explore significant I AM metaphors from the gospels. The theme is all about Identity and the hope is that we take away A better understanding of God A better understanding of ourselves A calling to make a difference in our world A feeling of empowerment and support by the Church May our youth hear God saying: I AM with you, I AM calling you, I AM preparing a place and a path ofr you, I AM challenging you to be my eyes, hands and feet to the world. We a part of sending out our youth! Empower and support them through involvement with prayer and the Fun and Fund- Raising Dinner with Auction. Mark you calendars for Sunday March 3. Auction Items may be viewed at 4:30 pm and spaghetti dinner will be served from 5:00 -6:00 pm. Of course, live entertainment and surprises are included! Watch for more details in our Weekly!
Christmas blessings come in many kids of gifts. Special thank you to those who so faithfully serve others at this time. Surprising to run out of both childrens gift bags and worship bulletins at the family Christmas eve service. Both services warmed my heart and brought me to awe and wonder at what a loving God we are relationship with!
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Teach us to love
O God, perfect us in love, That we may conquer all selfishness and hatred of others; Fill our hearts with thy joy, And shed abroad in them thy peace which passeth understanding; That so those murmurings and disputings To which we are too prone may be overcome. Make us long-suffering and gentle, And thus subdue our hastiness and angry tempers, And grant that we may bring forth the blessed fruits of the Spirit, To thy praise and glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
-Rev. Henry Alford (1810-1871)
In Touch
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Music Ministry
Here we are, preparing for the Lenten Season, a most reflective season. We will hear music from our keyboardists, Celebration Singers, Celebration Ringers, our youth groups, Pearwood Recorders and other individuals in this season reflecting the life and sacrifice of the person of Jesus Christ. Anyone interested in being a part of our musical dedication in worship will feel a welcoming spirit from those in our music ministry, and feeling so inclined, you may spend the time in rehearsal with us, preparing our music to present in our worship services. No matter if you are a year-round resident or one living here part-time, you are welcome to help enhance the program by your participation. Music has such spiritual, mental and physical benefits that I would encourage you to participate, if able, and experience some of its nurturing and healing effects, along with the joyous experience of community we've built in our ministry. There is always a schedule of our rehearsals in the bulletin. Please feel free to attend. We are now enjoying a Second Service which has been added to enhance the worship experience of our church. "home by another way" offers a unique style of worship, incorporating an eclectic variety in music style and selections, with electric and acoustic instruments, and a variety of musicians invited to share their musical gifts and interpretations. This worship style, while adhering to the core values and teachings of our church , allows us to extend a welcome to those who may want to experience an approach which includes more interaction of the Word , a sense of movement that continues to stir our hearts as we hear and learn to understand more, the message that God revealed. Pastor Bill has a wonderful preaching style, and teaches us with such passion, but, I must say, you should experience Him preaching while moving freely about Him is the spirit of young and old combined, randomly offering opportunity to joyfully express tolerance, acceptance, understanding and community in a setting that has been made comfortable for any worshiping individual. It's truly a unique and wonderful extension to our worship experience here at Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church.
''O give thanks to the Lord, call on His name, make known His deeds among the peoples. Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; tell of all His wonderful works. Glory in His holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His presence continually." Psalm 105: 1-4 Deborah Fisher Director of Music Ministries
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February 2013
Greetings. This blog is an answer to a question. The more that we learn the more we should want to share. This blog is for the sharing of information to help with our journey / adventure towards a deeper understanding of our faith. You may also go online thru our website www.fhpresbyterian.info and click on the BLOG button and add your comments, as well as see what others are thinking. Check it out.
A conversation with a shepherd may help us to understand why Jesus used sheep as a reference to people. Like humans, sheep are instinctively fearful and resist change. They have to be led to food and be protected from predators. They like to gather together, but will wonder away from the ock when not paying attention. And, a few sheep can lead the others astray. Thousands of years ago, the prophet, Isaiah, was describing us when he wrote: All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left Gods path to follow our own, straying from what is right. So, why is it we leave Gods path to follow our own? Is it because we think the grass is greener on the other side of the hill? Is it because we are content; that is, until we get into trouble? Or, are we just so misguided that we think that following our own path is somehow better than the one God has planned for us? Today, shepherds herd sheep. But in Jesus time, the shepherd led his sheep. Jesus is The Good Shepherd of the 23rd Psalm who leads me to green meadows and beside still water, renewing my strength and restoring my soul; who comforts and protects me in the darkest valley and lls my life with blessings until it overows. And, He is the one who leads me back to Gods path when I stray away on my own. With a Shepherd like that, I have all that I need. Michael Belk, artist
Blind trust
Lex Gillette, a blind long-jumper from North Carolina, participated in the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Paralympic Games. Before an event, his guide shows him around the course. During competitions, the guide positions Gillette at the starting line, then goes to the sand pit, where he claps and calls steadily so the athlete can follow the sounds and run straight ahead. Gillette knows to jump when he hits his 16th. step. Unable to see where hes going, nor the line from which to jump, nor where hell land, Gillette entrusts himself fully to his guide. The result? Three consecutive silver medals, and a world record set in 2011. Were all blind to what lies ahead in life, so our guide, the Holy Spirit, goes before us and beckons us forward in the way we should go. Entrusting ourselves to God, we can do great things.
The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc
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In Touch
Library Footnotes
Grace, Gold, and Glory: My Leap of Faith by Gabrielle Douglas
Following her amazing performances in both the team and all-around competitions, US gymnast and two-time Olympic gold medalist Gabrielle Douglas became one of the biggest names to emerge from the 2012 London games. But before she received international acclaim, she was a young girl growing up with a host of challenges before her. Almost no one would have guessed that this child born with a rare blood disorder would go on to make Olympic history and earn the nickname the flying squirrel. Growing up in a family with tight financial constraints but a wealth of faith and love, Gabrielle quickly learned that if she wanted her dreams to become reality, she would need support and an immense trust in God. Then came the strain her training placed on the household budget, the feeling she didnt always belong, multiple injuries, and questions that led her to consider leaving gymnastics forever. The only thing pulling her through was the knowledge God had a plan, and her family was there to help her execute it whatever that plan might contain. In this personal autobiography, Gabrielle looks beyond the lessons she has learned at the gym and shares the leaps of faith she has needed to make throughout her life. Grace, Gold and Glory, tells the incredible true story of a girl who overcame tremendous odds to bring glory to her team, her country, and her Creator. This book is very engaging and hard to put down it is a quick read because you want to find out what happens next and are drawn back to it! Barbara Oakeson
Be a love bird
Many stories about the origin of Valentines Day have come down through the centuries. Theres no definitive story, but most revolve around the imprisonment of Valentinus (St. Valentine) for his disregard of Roman laws. Many legends are also associated with Valentines Day. For example, because birds seemed to arrive and mate in some countries in mid-February, human couples came to be called love birds. In 1667, the first recorded Valentine card was printed. Today, people will give their sweethearts countless millions of cards and acres of heart-shaped boxes filled with candy. But why wait for Valentines Day to share love with others? Remember Jesus words in John 13:34 (NRSV): I give you a new commandment, that you love one another.
-The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc.
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From the Director of Christian Formation: Continued from page 13...
February 2013
To Do List From God
I saw my life in search of completing things; My time and will were firmly in control. I thought I had little need for what patience brings; I gave no heed to murmurs from my soul. While in the other room I heard.. Youre planning, doing all the time," it said, But something is missing deep inside. Your mind is whirling, but your soul is denied, So turn to God and let go of your pride. I did, and God said, Come, come into the other room Here is My plan for you: Give your life to Me, and just let go. Have faith, pray, and read the Word through, And youll have blessings this I know. So simple, and it brings me perfect peace, Living out His Plan , the way I should. Direction, purpose, fullness and release Life with God is very, very good. -Terry Martin
Family Christmas Eve Service Kneeling Shepherd - Johanna Hissler, Joseph-Caden Eckenroth, Mary-Emerson Uphoff, Shepherd-Davin Eckenroth, Shepherd Sitting-Charlotte Hissler, Not shown Wise Man-David Hissler who led the procession into the Sanctuary with Dori the Llama.
Kids enjoyed the service and loved the animals in the petting stable.
Absolute love
Love is the power to grant freedom without desiring to limit or inhibit its exercise. It is the power to give freedom without any will to take it back. And it is only omnipotence that can refrain absolutely from trespassing upon freedom. Only God can give and not take back{God} suffers within himself the entire consequence of allowing man absolute freedom. That is his love Thus, the existence of evil and suffering in the world is a proof, not that God is either good but powerless, or all-powerful but not good. On the contrary, it is a proof that God is both loving and omnipotent. Only absolute love could grant unhindered freedom, and only omnipotence can endure the operation of that freedom. -D.R. Davies The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc
In Touch
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February 2013 Hospitalized? Call the church! If you are sick, hospitalized or home recovering from illness, we want you to call the church and let us know! In a congregation like ours where people leave in droves for extended summer months, it is easy for the staff, elders and deacons to assume, when we dont see someone, that they are simply vacationing away. The truth is that some of you are sick and we are not aware of it. You can help us by simply letting one of the staff know of your situation. We have an excellent support system in place due to the diligent efforts of our deacons. Help us serve you by communicating your situation.
With deepest sympathy we list those members who have passed away in 2012. Don Gallentine Don Tepfer Marjorie Rennie Esther D. Wilson Peggy Johnson Bob Brown Dorothy Delahanty Chandler Roesch Eldon Schwieman Roy Wulfmeier Bill Martin Lil Bowman Roberta Cross Dick Westphal Eula Breidenbach
Well done, Thou good and faithful servant. Enter thou into the joy Of thy Lord.
Matthew 25:21
Community news:
noontime Munch and Music on Fridays! Programs in the Community Center lobby : February 1: February 8: February 15: OK Chorale FH High School Jazz Band Fountain Hills Brass Ensemble with Al Roselieb
Programs begin at 12:15pm and seating is limited so be sure not to miss your spot at these annual concerts.
Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church 13001 N. Fountain Hills Boulevard Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
Non Profit Organ. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit NO. 299 Scottsdale, AZ
Current Resident or
To see the photos in beautiful living color, go to our website: www.fhpresbyterian.info
If anyone is not getting our newsletter or Presb-E-News and would like to, please let the church office know at 480-837-1763.
In Touch is published monthly; deadline for each issue is the 15th of the month before publication. News and information should be submitted to the church office in hard copy, or email to fhpresbyterian.office@gmail.com Editor, Marta Ludwig; Proof Reader, Helen Roesch; Staff Photographer: Gary Oakeson; Production and Circulation: Mary Wernecke, Bobbie Dangremond, Ruby Pearson, Marilyn Humes, Barb Hegwood, and Vivian Virden. Travel to Bulk Mail Post Office: Mary Martinson.
Enjoying her birthday cake with Jane Haynes. Thank you, thank you for a wonderful 100th Birthday reception and making me feel still a part of this church that Paul and I loved/ love so much. I was overwhelmed and very happy. Gratefully yours, Blanche Brisbane
Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church 13001 Fountain Hills Blvd. - Fountain Hills, AZ 85268 Phone - (480) 837-1763 Fax - (480) 837-1729 Office E-Mail Address: fhpc.marta@gmail.com Office Hours: Monday Friday : 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. www.fhpresbyterian.info Pastor/Head of Staff: Rev Bill Good email: fhpc.billg@gmail.com cell phone: 480-329-8090