FOUNTAIN HILLS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN TOUCH
Fountain Hills, AZ December 2018
FHPC VISION & MISSION STATEMENTS
Our Vision: Living God’s love. calls us to . . .
Our Mission: Reach out to all with faith and love.
Bill Good, Senior Pastor PREPARING THE WAY Sunday Worship – with each succeeding week, the season will be met with reverence and warmth, Each year we hear it again. . . deepening reflection, inspiring music and the glow John the Baptist recalling the of Advent candle-lighting . Oh come, let us adore words of his spiritual father, him! Isaiah, and beckoning us into “Journey of Promises ” – our worship on Sunday, new ways of living, calling us Dec. 16 th will be enriched by a very special musical to “prepare the way of the presentation featuring our Celebration singers, Mike Lord ” (Mk 1:3). Preparation is important work, Pizzuto on piano, and accompaniment by the Al- critical endeavor. That baby will need a welcoming legro String Quartet. Scripture and narration serve to place to stay. bind the musical selections into a powerful whole reflecting on the wonder and glory of the Advent Here at FHPC we’re doing our part. We’re making Miracle. plans of our own to help you prepare for Christ- Christmas Eve Worship – the tradition continues! mas. . . the real Christmas. . . the one where the Kid-friendly Family Service with live nativity at baby is born anew in your heart! 4pm. Traditional Service for all ages follows in the Here’s what we’ve got for you: candlelit beauty and warmth of our Sanctuary at “Decorating Our House” – Join with the family as 7pm. we set the mood for the holidays by decorating our “Memories and Hopes” – as we have in recent campus inside and out with festive lights and years, on the 1 st Sunday after Christmas we gather to greens. Your efforts will be amply rewarded by our sing our favorite hymns, pray together, and share famous (infamous?) “Chili Dump” lunch. It all reflections on the past and anticipations for the fu- takes place on Sat., Dec. 1 st : Decorating begins at ture. Together, we prepare ourselves and our church 9am & lunch is served around 11am. to move forward into the coming year. One service “Stroll in the Glow” – Later that same day, come only at 10 am in the sanctuary. share laughter and fellowship with friends and neighbors at our Living Nativity and Petting Stable from 5-7pm on Avenue of the Fountains on Sat., Dec 1 st . “We Have Seen His Glory” – daily reflections for Advent by the Rev. Dr. Tim Smith for those quiet times of meditation and prayer. In Touch page 2
OUR CHURCH STAFF Focus on Finance Rev. Bill Good Pastor/Head of Staff
Pastor Ken Brown Oct Income $ 25,273 Budget $ 37,811 Associate Pastor Oct Expenses $ 36,559 Budget $ 37,069 Marta Ludwig Administrative Coordinator Debbie Fisher Yr to date Income $ 382,836 YTD Budget $ 348,855 Director of Music Ministry Yr to date Expense $ 394,979 YTD Budget $ 368,447 Dorothy Parris Pianist Caryl Bates
Organist October results were not as expected. Although we did not have any unusual John Gallagher expenses, income fell short considerably compared to budget. YTD income Custodian shows we are approximately $34,000 ahead of Budget but this is not a true re- CHURCH TREASURER flection of income donated through the year. We had Linda Lull to make the decision to transfer $36,000 from re- CHURCH SESSION stricted accounts that had accumulated through sev- Class of 2018 eral years to meet expenses, some of which included Mary Alice Bivens repairs and replacement of air conditioners. Let's Yvonne Ellingson pray November and December show considerable Jerry Miles improvement. We thank you for keeping up your Helen Quigley pledges and contributions. The church cannot operate Jack Reynolds and run its various Class of 2019 programs without your commitments. Maria Berry John Brockelman Respectfully, Tim Halchuck Linda Lull, Treasurer Bob Lull Terri Schmidt Carol Skewes
Class of 2020 On the Inside: 1 Nancy Grahlmann Pastor Bill Good .. .. … … ...... … .. .. … . … ...... 2 Joyce Leo Focus on Finance...... … ...... 3 Kristi Robinson Upcoming Events: .. .. . … .. .. . … .. .. … ...... … . . .. . 4 Ron Waldo Mission Ministry . . … ...... … ...... 5 Library Footnotes . .. … … ...... 6 Women’s Ministries ...... …...... … ...... 7 BOARD OF DEACONS Men’s Fellowship .. … .. …. .…. …. …. …. …. …. …… 8 Moderator: Linda Warren Welcome Our new Members ...... … ...... 9 Class of 2018 More Upcoming Events ...... … ...... 10 Mary Martinson FHPC Thanksgiving Dinner ...... 12 Elvira Ruiz Thank You Knitters . .. .. …...... …. .. . …. 13 Bob Titus FHPC Partner ...... … ...... 13 Chris Young Not Yet a Member? ...... … . … ...... 14 Class of 2019 Music Ministry ...... …...... …...... …… ...... 14 Louise Jones U.S. Military Medallions .. … ….. … .. … .. …...... 15 Dorothy Rudack 2019 Pat Covault Memorial Concert Series … … … ...... 16 Nancy Wulfmeier FHPC Foundation.. .. … .. .. . … ...... 16 Class of 2020 Facebook. .. .. … ...... … ...... … … ...... 17 Michele Hasley Member Spotlight...Did you Know? ...... … ... 18 Mary Lee Lehrich Miscellaneous.. . .. …...... 19 Bonnie Matty Necrology for 2018… .. … ...... … .. … ...... …… 19 Linda Warren Thank you note… ….. .. . …...... … ...... 19 December Birthdays ......
Dancers at Worship Service ...... … 20 ****** page 3 December, 2018 Upcoming Events
ADVENT & CHRISTMAS CALENDAR
Saturday Dec 1 9:00 am All-Church Christmas Decorating 11:00 am All-Church Chili Dump meal 5:00 pm Live Nativity on Ave of the Fountains
Sunday Dec. 16 th 9:00 am Cantata “Journey of Promises” 3 rd Sunday of Advent
Monday Dec. 24 th 4:00 pm Christmas Eve Children’s Service (Live Nativity & Petting Stable) 5:00 pm Refreshments
7:00 pm Traditional Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Sunday Dec. 30 th 10:00 am 1st Sunday after Christmas Day “Memories & Hopes Sunday” (One service only)
CHRISTMAS COOKIES!!!
Hilltop Hospitality is inviting the Congregation to share 2 dozen of their favorite Christmas cookies in December. These are the second through the fifth Sundays in December. Hilltop will take care of the first. If you could also provide the recipe so that we can make copies upon request that would be great. We will pro- vide sign-up sheets after Thanksgiving. - Hilltop Hospitality
SAVE THE DATE!!! RUMMAGE Saturday, March 2, 2019
More info to follow, we will let you know when it is time to bring your treasures in.
Control Things we CANNOT control: *Someone else’s faults GENTLE YOGA *How long we will live Instructor Sarah Nunn *Another person’s opportunities Wednesdays Things we CAN control: 8:15 to 9:15 am *Our attitude $10 per session *The kind of life we live *What we do with our opportunities
-The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc page 5 November 2012 In Touch page 4 Mission Ministry
We have completed our third year of packing Christmas Shoeboxes for Support Our Troops Samaritan’s Purse to be delivered to indigent chil- dren somewhere in the With the colder weather upon us, world. We we are in great need of warm received clothing for our homeless Veter- 88 boxes ans. Won’t you please consider which donating some new and/or gently were deliv- used sweatshirts, pants, new ered to socks, etc. Just like in the summer Trinity Lutheran, the FH hot months when it is so hard on Jack Reynolds, Elder collection center. We also the homeless veterans living on our streets, it is the same collected $523 which will in the colder months. If you do want to contribute any of allow 21 additional boxes to be assembled and shipped. these items, you may place them in the Narthex in the col- The boxes from FHPC will probably go to the same coun- lection container or in the Church try and we will advise the congregation when we learn to office. The second and most impor- which one. The Mission Committee thanks all those who tant thing I need right now is for all gave generously. families that have a loved one in the military, I need an updated mailing As requested by the Mission Committee, Althea Halchuck address in order for our annual has completed a study on possibly Christmas card mailing to be ac- constructing a labyrinth in the prayer complished and done on time. garden below our east parking area. The area needs a total clean-up and The Mission Committee is very reconfiguring so a meditation laby- happy to see many members placing their donations in our rinth might fit nicely. The Committee new collection box located in the Narthex. Throughout the approved a request for the Session to support this project. year, the It will be a point of discussion at their next meeting. signs may change de- The Committee approved the following expenditures to pending on charitable organizations: $300 to One-N-Ten to support which Mis- the LGBTQ homeless teenage counseling program; $500 sion project is Extended Hands Food Bank; $300 to both Changing Lives being worked Center and PHX Rescue Mission for holiday meals; $300 on, but the to homeless veteran’s programs; $300 to Arizona Brain- one project foods for needy F.H. students weekend food packets. that never In December, the Committee will be shopping to provide stops and never changes throughout the entire year is our an entire Christmas dinner to one deserving family from Mission Project for our Military and Veterans. The other each high school class. We deliver the ingredients includ- locations for you to place your donations are the Fellow- ing a frozen turkey to the school just before the holiday ship Center on the left side as you enter and in the Church break. The school nurse selects the families. office. Gently used clothing, bedding, small household items, books, magazines, CD’s, DVD’s, puzzle books and The Committee discussed a $500 donation be made to toiletries are always needed. An up-to-date flyer regarding assist fire victims in CA. We are vetting various organi- information on needed items is attached to the Vet’s con- zations including the ECO Presbytery to determine which tainer in the Narthex. If you should one has established a funding mechanism. have any questions, just ask me. Thank It’s not too late to make a needy FH you again for remembering our Veter- family happy for Christmas. We are still ans and Troops. collecting frozen turkeys for the food bank. We will also accept cash dona- Donna Sims, tions in the church office and the Mis- Mission Committee sion Committee will purchase them on your behalf. page 5 December, 2018 Library Footnotes
Christmas Book Reviews
“The Journey – Walking the Road to Bethlehem ” by Adam Hamilton All of us think we know the Christmas story of the birth of Jesus Christ. The author, Adam Hamilton, boldly tells the familiar story with freshness and richness. Hamilton uses the work of historians, Biblical scholars, and archaeologists to show us what really happened when God sent his son as a human to this earth. We will travel with the author in the Holy Land from Nazareth to Bethlehem on the difficult journey for Mary and Jo- seph. Hamilton illuminates this most amazing moment in history that changed the world. We follow the footsteps of Mary, Jo- seph, Elizabeth, the shepherds, and others in significant detail providing insight into our own journeys with Christ.
“A Bethlehem Christmas” by Charles R. Swindoll A Bethlehem Christmas : Celebrating the Joyful Season is a re-visit of the familiar Bethlehem story of the birth of Jesus Christ in a new and creative way. This time the story is told as if the author were the one personally involved in the events. Told first as Mary, then as Joseph, and finally as the angel Gabriel. Careful historical research enables the addition of colorful details that helps bring the ancient scenes to life. Hopefully, this book will open your eyes and stimulate your imagination in ways that will make the story even more unforgettable.
“Because of Bethlehem” by Max Lucado Max Lucado is a New York Times best selling author and one of my favorites. Because of Bethlehem; love is born and hope is here. Because of Bethlehem the world was changed. No one expected God to come to earth as a human being. Jesus entered our world not like a human but as a human. Lucado urges you to re-kindle your connection to the Christ of Christmas and find hope for a lifetime; to lay down your endless Christmas to-do list and receive what Jesus has already done. Jesus comes not with a list of things for you to do but with a list of things he has already done and will do. The Christ-child, born humbly in a stable and laid in a manger, is a gift from God. Give Jesus the gift the angels gave him, the gift of praise. A remarkable gift can arrive in an un- remarkable package. One did in Bethlehem. In this book, Lucado includes an Advent Devotional Guide for the four weeks lead- ing to Christmas. You will find this an easy but meaningful read. Enjoy!
“Kneeling in Bethlehem ” by Ann Weems Kneeling in Bethlehem is a contemporary, reverent, and faith-filled book of poetry. The book is organized into groups that depict major segments of the Christmas story which you will find meaningful. These poems capture the spirit of joyful celebration and can be used in worship services, family gatherings, or by individuals for quiet reflection. Weems leads the reader to think about the season’s events in a creative and powerful way.
“Advent and Christmas Wisdom” by Henri M. Nouwen This book, Advent and Christmas Wisdom, will challenge you and warm your heart as you prepare for the birth of the Christ- child. Advent is a time of great anticipatory joy. It is a time of preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth in Bethlehem as a helpless infant. There are two sections of the book – readings for Advent and readings for the Christmas Season. The annual com- memoration of Christ’s arrival begins the Christmas cycle of the liturgical year. There are twenty-eight daily readings for Advent and twelve readings for the days of Christmas. Each day begins with the words of Nouwen, followed by related Scripture. Next there is a short prayer. Finally an Advent or Christmas activity is suggested as a way to apply the messages to one’s daily life. These devotions are excellent for individuals and families. - John Bivens
page 7 December 2011 In Touch page 6 Women’s Ministries
DECEMBER EVENTS December 4 1:00 p.m. Women’s Afternoon Circle (Fountain View Village) December 13 9:00 a.m. Women’s Morning Circle (Adult Center) December 17 7:00 p.m. Women’s Evening Circle, Home of Donna Yordy December 19 10:00 a.m. Hooked on Books (Fireside Room) December 19 12:00 p.m. Out ‘n About
Morning Circle Evening Circle The Morning Circle will meet on Thursday December 13 at Our next meeting will be December 17 at 6PM 9 am in the Adult Center. We At the home of Donna Yordy: 16800 El Lago Blvd. #1078 will be discussing Chapter 4 from Parables by John MacAr- This will be our annual Christmas Celebration Potluck. thur: A Lesson About Justice Bring a dish to share. and Grace. Answer as many The Bible Study will be pre- questions in the corresponding sented again as our annual treat workbook as you can. Join us by Mary Alice Bivens. The as we learn more about Jesus’s Lesson from Horizons Bible parable of the vineyard. For Study “God’s Promise – I am more information call Monique with you” will be Lesson 7 ti- Reynolds 336-382-8733. tled “God with us as Em- manuel”. The shift is this: from the “God with us” promise to the “God with us” person of Afternoon Circle Jesus Christ. First Tuesday, December 4 1:00pm If you need more information, direc- Fountain View Village, Assisted Living Activity Room tions or need a ride, please contact Donna at 480-837-6169. You will Celebrate His Birth! The Afternoon Circle will enact "The also need to ask her for a gate code. Christmas Story" by placing familiar Guests are always warmly welcomed. figurines in our nativity scene. Every- one has a part. We will sing tradi- - Linda Capron tional Christmas hymns throughout the script. Come and share in this prophecy-come-true. Feel the joy of re-telling the glorious birth of our Christ Child! Jane Allen, Leader 907-538-3223
HOOKED ON BOOKS
Out ’n About—Out to Lunch Hooked on Books will meet at 10:00 A.M. in the Fireside The December 19th meeting of Out 'n About will be at Room on Wednesday, December 19th. This will be our Wicked 6 Bar & Grill at Christmas party and if you wish to participate please bring SunRidge Canyon. 13100 a wrapped gift costing no more than $15.00 to the little N. SunRidge Drive. We game called “The Right Family” meet at noon and will have which we have played in previous separate checks. All ladies years and enjoyed. As usual, we welcome! will also be exchanging books. For For questions and reserva- further information call Elsie Hof- tions call Nancy Wulf- farber (480-837-4518) or Carol Fuls meier at 480-837-3021. (480-836-2346). pageIn Touch7 December, page 2018 4 Evening Circle Christmas Mission Project Men’s Fellowship
At our October meeting I presented a suggestion for a Christmas giving Mission project and it was agreed Next meeting of the Men’s Fellowship will be January 12 at that the ladies approved of the idea and want to partici- 8:30 am in the Fellowship Center. pate. I became aware of this organization at a meeting I was attending on Saturday, Oct. 20 at the Mesa First Presbyterian Church. A presentation from Streetlight USA really grabbed my attention and I felt that I wanted to do something and that I strongly feel that women in particular would want to be involved. The *************************************************** statistics are alarming and to know that Phoenix is one of the worst cities in the Nation for sex trafficking of young children (the majority are young girls) is more A merry balance that I can bear. Every 2 minutes a child is forced to In Luke 10:38-42, Martha gets a bad rap. After all, sell her body for the basic needs of life. The average we need Martha to get things done and to show hospitality. age of a child forced into sex trafficking is 12-14. (Note that Martha is the one who opens up her home to Jesus Young female runaways are often trafficked within 48 in the first place!) hours of being on the street. Streetlight USA is an Martha’s are needed in December, but holiday Arizona Qualified Foster Care Organization that ad- preparations shouldn’t shift our focus for the reason for the dresses her needs, including medical, physical, spiri- season. When we become “worried and distracted” as Mar- tual, and emotional. Once she is stabilized and feeling tha did (v 41 ) we’re tempted to trade God’s “one thing” (v a sense of trust and safety, Streetlight staff can begin to 42) for the world’s many worthless things. Yet if we’re only help her rewrite her story, giving her a second chance like Mary, we may forget to let the world know who we’re celebrating! at life. So this Christmas, keep a proper balance between your inner Mary and your inner Martha. Take time to “be At our November 26 meeting, the members of our cir- Mary,” kneeling at the manger, so that all the merry things cle will gather items they have purchased based upon you do as Martha have meaning and serve the newborn king. the suggested needs of Streetlight. They will then be taken to the organization as our Christmas gift to these young ladies. The list of items needed can be found on their website, www.StreetLightUSA.org
Current Needs: Medium-large duffle bags Small suit cases Twin size bedding/comforter sets Craft kits: Jewelry, friendship bracelets, nail design pottery. No needles Adult pajama sets (all sizes) Fleece blankets
PinchMe therapy dough -The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc Gift Cards: Arts & entertainment, admission (e.g. zoo; theatre) Shoe store (e.g. DSW) or contact Linda Capron at 480-699-2946 for more information. We would welcome any support that you might want to lend to this project of love. It was also providential that the same presentation was presented as a news item on CBS News (local channel 5) aired on the next evening, Sunday, Oct 21 at 10 PM. What more of a nudge could I get to take some AC- TION.
-Linda Capron In Touch page 8 WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
Mary Ann Johnson has lived here four years and for- Christina Schlum and her husband Timothy are newly mally lived in South Carolina where she was a member of weds and presently live in Peoria, Arizona. They plan to Walhalla Presbyterian Church. Mary Ann says her husband, move to Fountain Hills in one year. Christina is employed who was the love of her life, was a Pathologist at Johns Hop- full-time as a Web Designer and Online Marketing Manager kins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. He passed away in at Start Clinic in Phoenix. She has been in youth leadership 2008. Mary Ann has two children, a daughter that lives in and worship leadership at Scottsdale Bible Church for the Scottsdale and a son that lives in Florida. Her special inter- past several years. She comes to us by Reaffirmation of ests are wood carving and her little dog. Her major in college Faith . And Christina and her husband Timothy just LOVE was art and she excels in wood carving. She does whimsical frozen yogurt! figures and houses and does commissioned work. She came to this church because she has always been a Presbyterian Christina’s husband has lived in Timothy Schlum, Fountain Hills for twenty years. He is a 3rd. generation resi- Myron “Mike” Shogren has lived in Fountain Hills for dent and recent graduate of FH High School. He is pursuing twenty years with wife Mary. He was a former member of a degree in Biblical Studies at Ottawa University. Timothy the Presbyterian Church in Grand Forks, North Dakota . He and Christina have started a program for Middle School and arrived in Arizona from Grand Forks in 1964. Senior High students on Tuesday nights in our Fireside He was brought up in a rather stiff Presbyterian Church envi- Room. He also was involved in Youth Ministries at Scotts- ronment so he very much enjoys the Casual Service and Pas- dale Bible School. He comes to us by Reaffirmation of Faith. tor Good’s sermons. He had been a Stock Broker for 35 years in Phoenix. He re- tired in 1968 and took up art after moving to Fountain Hills. Bernice Ver Hage formerly lived in Holland, Michigan. He comes to us by Reaffirmation of Faith. She has lived in Fountain Hills for thirteen years. She is a recent widow and was a good friend of Butch Utter.
New Members: Christina and Tim Schlum, Bernice VerHage and Mary Ann Johnson Mike Shogren with Yvonne Ellingson page 9 December, 2018
MORE UPCOMING EVENTS
Don’t miss this “Special” event!!
“THE DIAMONDS IN CONCERT”
On Sunday, February 17, 2019, the music of the Diamonds (50’s, 60’s, 70’s . . . and modern times) can be enjoyed on this date.
The Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church and the National Performing Artists have contracted this wonderful music concert for your enjoyment. All proceeds from the concert will be used to pay down the Church’s mortgage.
We have just 385 tickets to sell, so please order your tickets early. As members of the church, you will want to order tickets before we invite the general public. The concert will be held at the Church on Sunday, February 17, 2019, beginning at 4:00 p.m. After the performance, everyone is invited to the Fellowship Hall for refreshments and a chance to meet the Diamonds group in person.
Because this performance is a fund raiser prices are a little higher than our Entertainment Series. Section “A” Rows 1-4 $50.00 per seat Section “B” Rows 5-8 $45.00 per seat Section “C” Rows 9-11 $40.00 per seat Section “D” Choir Loft $35.00 per seat Section “E” Narthex $25.00 per seat
When you order, remember tickets are sold on a first come basis – so, call the office to reserve your tickets today.
Capital Campaign Committee
Small packages, great things
The motto for Hershey’s Kisses used to be “Big things come in small packages!” That could be a motto for Bethlehem, for Baby Jesus and, indeed, for us. It’s an Important message to remember when we fear we’re too Weak to fix the world’s problems, too small to fight the gigantic terror that threatens a loved one or too lacking in abilities we see in others. “But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah,” God declares through the Prophet Micah (5:2, NSRV), “from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel.” Bethlehem was a mere village. God’s ruler for Israel started as an infant. His birthplace was a small stable, not a palace or temple. But size isn’t everything. Big—that is, great—things can come in small packages. And thanks to the tiny baby who grew up to share immeasurably huge love with the world, God can do great things through you, too! -The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc In Touch page 10 FHPC Thanksgiving Dinner
Mary Alice Bivens Ilene Berg, Carol Hodgson & Carolyn Good were welcomed by Jen Young
Men’s Fellowship were happy to serve: Bob Hoffarber, Bill Matty, Jerry Cain, George Holtan, Jack Morris, Ben Fast & Phil Katz page 11 December, 2018 FHPC Thanksgiving Dinner
Lucky Nancy Wulfmeier was first in line
Marilyn Humes wouldn’t miss the dinner for anything, even a broken arm
Mary Lee Lehrich & Peg Inglis entertained Chris Young explained “Be a Santa to a Senior” In Touch page 12
THANK YOU KNITTERS !!
A year ago a call went out to the congregation to knit hats for new- borns in Alaska. We thank the following for their generous contributions of their time and talents:
List of knitters Nancy Wulfmeier Donna Lyons Marianne Winchester Ron Waldo
Ramona Moore Marty Whiting QUYANA CAKNEQ! (Yup'ik Eskimo) Diane Molnar JoAnn Cutillo -- BIG THANKS! to all knitters for Donna Corriero nice, warm, & colorful newborn hats Lois Reed and blankets! page 13 December, 2018 FHPC Partner
Are You a Partner in FHPC? mains at another “home church” – back in Minne- Most of us know about “Covenant Partners” – these sota, for example. Becoming an Affiliate Partner are folks who have made the decision to call FHPC witnesses to your connection with FHPC, allows you their “home church” and have formally entered into to participate in church meetings and speak to the a commitment which grants them full rights of mem- issue(s) at hand, while lacking only the right to vote. bership – including the ability to speak and vote in Is FHPC your church “home away from home”? formal church meetings. Consider “Affiliate Partnership” as a way to say so. But did you know that ECO also affords us the op- Interested? Contact one of our Pastors or Yvonne portunity to enlist “Affiliate Partners” in our congre- Ellingson, Outreach Elder, at 480-471-1027. gation? This acknowledges that a special relation- ship exists between you and your FHPC family in addition to your primary membership, which re-
Not Yet A Member? *If you are attending our church and don’t have membership in another church, you can join our church by profession of faith and receiving the Sacrament of Baptism or, if you’ve already been baptized, you can join by reaf- firmation 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. For additional information, please contact Yvonne Ellingson at 480-471-1027 or Nancy Grahlman at 480-404-6039 or call the church office at 480-837-1763. Yvonne Ellingson
A well-shaken tree For several years I have read the Bible through twice in 12 months. It is a great and powerful tree, each word of which is a mighty branch. Each of these branches have I well shaken, so desirous was I to know what each one bore and what it would give me. And the shaking of them has never disappointed me. -Martin Luther
-The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc In Touch page 14 Music Ministry
bration Singers will present "Journey of Promises" a Can- Christmas in the desert has always tata written by Joseph Martin with narration by Pam Mar- been such a beautiful experi- tin. This presentation traces the promise of the Messiah ence. We have the crisp, clear and celebrates God's promises fulfilled in Jesus. nights enabling us to really gaze at We will enhance our performance by adding The Allegro the stars. We often have palm trees String Quartet to our presentation, along with accompa- in the background of our sunsets nists Dorothy Parris and Mike Pizzuto. which bring gorgeous colors to our skies only for those brief few min- Our Christmas Eve Services will bring Children and utes, but, always long enough to families together in candlelight for both services. Our stop, look out, and push aside our children's story in the 4:00 services will tell of the sheep thoughts to just say "Thank You"! and shepherds awaiting Christ’s birth, and our lovely Christmas in our church is also a 7:00 p.m. service with music and carols filling the sanc- beautiful experience for those of us tuary. It is a beautiful time of the year. here. Granted, we miss our fami- lies terribly if we are not able Debbie Fisher, Director of Music "What I saw in my vision hasn't happened yet. But some to be with them, but, day, a King of Israel will appear like a star." we simply have a beautiful Christmas experience here. Numbers 24:17 We have just enough tradition that warms our souls with loving familiarity. I hope everyone can be engaged in wor- Deborah Fisher ship together throughout the Advent season, sharing in the Director of Music Ministries love that comes from this wonderful church family.
On December 16, at our 9:00 am worship service our Cele-
Control Things we CANNOT control: *Someone else’s faults *How long we will live *Another person’s opportunities Things we CAN control: *Our attitude *The kind of life we live *What we do with our opportunities
-The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc.
U.S. Military Medallions for our Veterans for our Columbarium niches are now available. Please call or stop by the church office for more information. page 15 December, 2018 2019 Pat Covault Memorial Concert Series
January 8, 2019 February 19, 2019
JIM CURRY DAN BENNETT Tribute to “John Denver” with Band Comedy and Unique Manipulation of Everyday Objects Jim Curry is a California native who grew up as a great fan of What happens when a hilarious professor of mathematics pop-country superstar John Denver. Amazingly, as he matured, it performs a show with object lessons and world class jug- became quite evident his vocal prowess as well as his physical gling? You get non-stop laughter, “infotainment” and true stature, actually started taking on the Denver persona. In recent amazement. Right from the start, he engages the audience years, Jim Curry has enjoyed tremendous success, as Denver fans with fast paced stand-up clean comedy and mesmerizing all over the world have begun to identify him as an almost rein- physical feats. The result is a highly entertaining and educa- carnation of their idol. He has become the center of attention at tional treat. Denver tributes and has enjoyed monumental acceptance from “Making the common uncommon” is one of Dan’s signa- Denver fan clubs everywhere. Jim Curry has since realized the ture routines. After earning his Bachelor & Master Degrees incredible wide appeal John Denver’s music possesses as people in mathematics and combining that knowledge with his love of all ages cheer his music wherever he appears. for comedy & talent for juggling, a show was born. There January 22, 2019 was no turning back once he discovered how fun it was to entertain with math, physics and economics. Intellectual DAN REED’S DIXIELAND HOTSHOTS joke telling evolves into scientific bravado which in turn ** 7 Piece Band ** utilizes the visual aids of juggling, balancing and prop ma-
Dan Reed is an amazing trumpeter who started his musical jour- nipulation . ney at the ripe old age of nine in St Louis, MO. Although he wasn’t a fan of practicing, his parents insisted he do so and even March 5, 2019 had him performing every weekend for company. Dan felt he couldn’t face his relatives if he quit, so he stayed with it and be- “A SALUTE TO GLEN CAMPBELL” gan to love practicing hour and hours daily. starring JEFF DAYTON with band While still in high-school, Dan had an opportunity to play 1 night Campbell’s Bandleader, Guitarist and Right-Hand Man at the “Preservation Hall” in New Orleans where he met AL for 15 years HIRT. This is when he fell in love with Traditional Jazz. With Jeff presents an intimate, upbeat performance of Glen’s hits, music in his blood and St. Louis Jazz surrounding him, it’s no the “first-person” stories behind the songs, backstage antics surprise that his greatest professional influences were Louis Arm- and adventures on the road with a “Hall of Fame” great”. strong, Al Hirt, Maynard Ferguson, Bill Chase and Doc Severin- Jeff is joined by fellow Campbell band members and top pro sen, just to name a few. musicians, making this show the closest thing to hearing Dan has been described as an amazing musician and as much fun Glen as he was in the 70’s, 80’s and 2000’s. Reminisce with to watch as a “ whirling dervish”. Dan and his “Hotshots” will songs such as “Wichita Lineman”, “Rhinestone Cowboy”, take the audience on a trip to New Orleans to hear Dixieland as “Gentle On My Mind” and “By The Time I Get To Phoenix” you’ve never heard or seen before. as well as many others.
February 5, 2019 March 19, 2019
MARK PRESTON JIMMY TRAVIS Variety Magazine dubbed Mark Preston “One of the best enter- One Guy, One Guitar, Loads of Laughter by World’s #1 tainers in show business today.” Phyllis Diller always referred to Humorist Mark as “The Finest Voice Around. He sings, acts, For thirty years now, Jimmy has been holding audiences emotes…..fabulous.” Accompanied on stage by a symphony or- spellbound with his unique blend of humor, music and add chestra or just a trio, from Las Vegas, to the Philippines or lib interaction with the audience. His entertainment credits Europe, to the world’s largest cruise ships, Mark Preston has per- run the gamut from performances in the country’s most pres- formed thousands of shows in theaters all around the world, tigious theaters for world leaders and Fortune 500 companies truly earning him the title “International Entertainer”. His shows to conventions for farm associations, church groups and even combine almost every type of music, from Pop, to Broadway, to Nascar, which sets Jimmy apart from others with his wide Country, as well as plenty of humor. Whether he’s singing ‘My appeal and unique ability to connect with almost any audi- Way’ or ‘Friends In Low Places’, Mark Preston delivers his ence. songs with a showmanship and ease rarely seen on stage. In addition to his comedic skills, Jimmy is also a gifted musi- cian, singer and songwriter. This combination makes him one of the most versatile performers in the industry today. Musician, Singer, Songwriter and Clean Comedy all in one show!!! In Touch page 16 FH Presbyterian Church Foundation
Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church Foundation “An Investment Today for the Life of Our Church Tomorrow”
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
This is the time of year when we celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ, embrace family gatherings with dinners and stimulating conversations and enjoy the holidays with our friends.
It’s a good time to take a few minutes out of your busy schedule, while you’re with family, to review your Will/Trust. Have you considered a gift to the Church? Have you made a commitment? If so, Thank You!
The Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church Foundation provides a perfect charitable way to leave your mark and final testimony of your faith and belief in our church. Your gifts will help insure the future needs and ministries of the Church for years to come. It’s easy to give. Pick up a form at the Church office, com- plete it and return it to the office. No money is needed at this time. Your gift is received when the Will/ Trust is read. If you have any questions or need help, contact a Foundation Trustee. Thank you for your consideration.
Reminder: If you are shopping on Amazon, remember to sign-in as Smile Amazon.com , press Enter. In the “supporting” area Click On “Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church Foundation”. If you have a problem, call the Church office for help!!!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS from the Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church
Foundation Board of Trustees
Gary Oakeson 480-837-5563 Jean Ipema 480-837-1770 Matt Jefferson 480-837-6001 Roy Nickel 480-688-8392 Ben Fast 480-837-1119 Althea Halchuck 978-618-7150 Tim Halchuck 978-618-7150
The FHPC Foundation is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Contributions to the FHPC Foundation are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. The Foundation’s tax ID number is 46-2970452
FACEBOOK PAGE: Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church
Go to our website and click on Facebook on our home page. When you are there also click on the like it icon .
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.
Thank you Michele Hasley for the daily work you put into our page. page 17 December, 2018 Member Spotlight …. Did you know?
ued at the Armed Forces Air Intelligence Center at Lowry Monique AFB, Denver for most of 1966. I then spent four years in anti I was born Monique Beatrice Marie Boisvert in Lewiston, -submarine intelligence. ME, the eldest of seven: 1 boy and 6 girls. My mother’s father, Theophile, was my best friend and he passed when I Together was five. I have never gotten over his death. Later that Together we spent Jack’s final year on active duty in Maine. year my parents thought it wise to send me to a French We got out of the Navy because we didn’t like the idea of speaking convent school called Ave Maria. My father moving around from one base/ship to another for the next 20 drove me there every Sunday evening for the week. It was years. So Jack took a job with U.S. Steel as a sales trainee another life-altering experience. The nuns taught me to and yes, we moved multiple times: Brunswick, ME; Linden- read, make beautiful handcrafts and to love Jesus with my wold, NJ; Syracuse, NY; Cherry Hill, NJ; Bethlehem, PA; whole heart. Newtown, PA and Ridgewood, NJ. Our three children were By fourth grade I transferred to our local born amidst this confusion of moving parish school. I was determined to learn often and were very happy because and reading in two languages was all- we lived in Ridgewood for 22 years. Jack was U.S. Steel sales manager important to me. In the fall of my senior for the northeast and we owned and year, a school guidance counselor sug- Monique managed a health food gested that I was a candidate for college store and cheese shop. When that via scholarships, something I had not sold Monique got a position at the considered. A few forms and letters later local library working in the chil- I was accepted at a small nearby Catholic dren’s room, something she really enjoyed. The year after our eldest women’s college on the shores of Lake started college, she did too. She en- Sebago. St. Joseph’s College was a beau- rolled at Rutgers in the MLS (Library tiful place, peaceful and supportive. Hav- Science) program and became a chil- ing just come back from N Y City at the dren’s librarian in the town next to beginning of my senior year (where I Monique & Jack Reynolds ours, Glen Rock. What a truly wonder- had worked as a translator at JFK) and ful and creative experience that was for thinking I would be spending a year abroad as part of a post her! In 1999 while still with U.S. Steel, Jack and his brother-in- graduate program, I had no expectations when I attended a law, Fr. Marc, founded Theo’s Work, Inc. (aka – Free The get-together at a nearby Naval Air Station’s Officers’ Club Kids) a humanitarian, independent organization that funds one snowy night in November 1968. Jack and I met that and manages an orphanage community, school, clinic, farm night and we got married in an ecumenical service the fol- and food kitchen in southern Haiti known as Pwoje Espwa lowing September. (Project Hope).
Jack In 2004 we retired to Greensboro, NC where one son lived I was born and raised in Haddonfield, NJ near Philadelphia. and bought our FH condo a year later where another son lives I was baptized in the Presbyterian Church attending Sunday (Gilbert). We had been snow birds for 9 years when we de- school and singing in the choirs K-12. I graduated from cided to move here permanently. We thank God daily for Guilford College, Greensboro, N.C. in 1965 and then at- this beautiful place and our welcoming church community. tended Navy OCS in Pensacola, FL. My training contin-
Faith and feelings
During a Bible study on faith, Ney Bailey came up with this definition: “Faith is taking God at his word.” Furthermore, she was re- minded that “the word of our God endures forever” (Isaiah 40: 8 NIV) In Faith is not a feeling (WaterBrook), Bailey writes, [sometimes] I have felt afraid or lonely or depressed. My heart has literally ached in anguish over circumstances of life, and in those moments I have been the most tempted to doubt the truth of God’s Word. But instead I chose with my will to believe his Word. Thousands of times my prayers have begun, ‘Lord, I feel...but, Lord, Your word says…” Bailey counsels, “You and I can either grow accustomed to listening to our feelings, thoughts, and circumstances, letting them con- trol us, or we can be in the habit of taking God at his word despite our feelings and life experiences...His Word is truer than our feelings.”
-The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc In Touch page 18
Interesting!!!...... Many happy returns
The following questions were in last year's GED examination Somehow, not only for Christmas, These are genuine answers (from 16 year olds) But all the long year through, The joy that you give to others, Is the joy that comes back to you. Q. What does 'varicose' mean? A.. Nearby And the more you spend in blessing The poor and lonely and sad, Q. Give the meaning of the term 'Caesarean section' The more of your heart’s possessing A.. The caesarean section is a district in Rome Returns to you glad.
Q. What is a seizure? - John Greenleaf Whittier
A.. A Roman Emperor.
-The Newsletter Newsletter Q. What is a terminal illness by Communication Resources, Inc A.. When you are sick at the airport.
Q. What does the word 'benign' mean? A.. Benign is what you will be after you be eight
The entire Denver International Airport is The Library of Congress contains approximately 838 miles of bookshelves—long enough to stretch from Houston to Chicago. twice the size of Manhattan.
Think That You Know Everything?
16. A dime has 118 ridges around the edge.
17. It's impossible to sneeze with your eyes open.
18. The giant squid has the largest eyes in the world.
19. In England , the Speaker of the House is not allowed to speak.
20. The microwave was invented after a researcher walked by a radar tube and a chocolate bar melted in his pocket.
21. Mr. Rogers was an ordained minister.
22. The average person falls asleep in seven minutes.
23. There are 336 dimples on a regulation golf ball.
24. "Stewardesses" is the longest word that is typed with only the left hand
Now you know everything…
page 19 December, 2018
Hospitalized? Call the church!
If you are sick, hospitalized or home recovering from ill- ness, we want you to call the church and let us know! In a con- gregation like ours where people leave in droves for extended summer months, it is easy for the staff, elders and deacons to With deepest sympathy we list assume, when we don’t see someone, that they are simply those members who have passed “vacationing away.” The truth is that some of you are sick and away in 2018. we are not aware of it. You can help us by simply letting one of the staff know of your Roger Essenburg situation. We have an excellent support system in place due to Toni Patterson the diligent efforts of our deacons. Help us serve you by com- Joan Larson municating your situation. Joanne Jones Jim Bates Carl Hayungs Bob Hegwood With A Grateful Heart Marie O’Leary I wanted to say again to you all Clarence ‘Butch’ Utter how very grateful I am for every- Donna Ryan Walt Nommay thing that has been done for me, given to me, shared with me and provided for me. God has shown Himself through your generosity, love, blessings and faithful jxÄÄ wÉÇx? g{Éâ zÉÉw tÇw yt|à{yâÄ áxÜätÇà‹A prayers. I am so appreciative that XÇàxÜ à{Éâ |ÇàÉ à{x }Éç by à{ç _ÉÜwAÊ you have come along side of me
Matthew 25:21 on this journey that I am on and thank God for your presence in my life.
- Michele Hasley
Vulnerable love God throws open the door of this world—and enters as a baby. As the most vulnerable imaginable. Because he wants unimaginable intimacy with you. What religion ever had a god that wanted such intimacy with us that he came with such vulnerability to us? What God ever came so tender we could touch him? So fragile that we could break him? So vulnerable that his bare, beating heart could be hurt? Only the one who loves you to death. - Ann Voskamp, The Greatest Gift -The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc HAPPY DECEMBER BIRTHDAY!
12/02 Aleyne Larsen-Craig 12/12 Pauline Pollock 12/24 Linda Capron 12/02 Nancy Wulfmeier 12/12 Arlene Stewart 12/24 Phyllis Rapp 12/08 Bud Fuls 12/19 Kimberly Wall 12/25 Yvonne Ellingson 12/08 Marianne Winchester 12/21 Emerson Uphoff 12/25 Edee Grider 12/09 Carl Capron 12/23 Jack Reynolds 12/26 Ilene Berg 12/09 Dorothy Christie 12/27 Sunniva Graves
Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church 13001 N. Fountain Hills Boulevard Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
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 [email protected] Editor, Marta Ludwig; Proof Readers: Phyllis Rapp & Helen Roesch; Staff Photographers: Gary Oakeson & Michele Hasley;
Eloise and Aurora Robinson showed off their dancing skills during the worship service one Sunday.
Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church 13001 Fountain Hills Blvd. - Fountain Hills, AZ 85268 Phone - (480) 837-1763 Fax - (480) 837-1729 Office E-Mail Address: [email protected] Office Hours: Monday – Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. www.fhpresbyterian.info Pastor/Head of Staff: Rev Bill Good email: [email protected] cell phone: 480-329-8090
Food art 4/15 email pictures 10/23/15 great pix
This is a story about four people named Eve- rybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. There was an important job to be done and Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about this, be- cause it was Everybody's job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn't do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done. I am Somebody, who is going to help Everybody, so there won't be Anybody that feels like a Nobody. No "I" in "T E A M"
Lynn Medley
While waiting…
Advent does not lead to nervous tension stemming from expectation of something spectacular about to happen. On the contrary, it leads to a growing inner stillness and joy allowing me to realize that he for whom I am waiting has already arrived and speaks to me in the silence of my heart. Just as a mother feels the child grow in her and is not surprised on the day of the birth, but joyfully receives the one she learned to know during her waiting, so Jesus can be born in my life slowly and steadily and be received as the one I learned to know while waiting. Henri J.M. Nouwen, the Genesse Diary
There is enough water in Lake Supe- rior to cover all of North and South America in one foot of liquid.