FOUNTAIN HILLS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

IN TOUCH
Fountain Hills, AZ
From Our Pastor NEW!
And the one who was seated on the throne said, See, I am making all things new. . . . It is I, Jesus, who sent my angel to you with this testimony for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.
(Rev. 21:5; 22:16)

April

2013

New Shoots
Born in the light of the Bright and Morning Star, we are new. Not patched, not mended . . . but new like a newborn . . . like the morning . . . The guilt-blotched yesterdays are gone; the soul stains are no more! There is no looking back; there are no regrets. In our newness, we are free. In the power of Gods continuing creation, we are: new shoots from the root of Jesse, new branches from the one true Vine, new songs breaking through the worlds deafness. This then is a new day. New shoots, new branches, new songs, new day . . . Bathed in the promise of Gods New Creation, we begin! Ann Weems

Palm Sunday, March 24, 2013!

HE IS RISEN! He who was no more is forevermore!

Bill

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. calls us to . . . Our Mission : We respond in faith, hope, and love stretching upward to the One God and reaching outward to all people through worship, education, fellowship and service.

In Touch
OUR CHURCH STAFF Rev. Bill Good
Pastor/Head of Staff

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Focus on Finance
Feb. Income Feb. Expense $ 42,780 $ 34,681 Budget Budget $ 39,550 $ 32,275

Rev. Stan Jones

Parish Associate

Debby DeBernardi
Director Christian Formation

Marta Ludwig
Administrative Coordinator

Yr to date Income

$ 85,446

Budget Budget

$ 82,050 $ 67,335

Debbie Fisher
Director of Music Ministry

Yr to date Expense $ 70,931

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: Yvonne Ellingson 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

After coming out of the blocks somewhat flat in January, the month of February yielded a stronger showing of Pledges. Overall, Income for February bested expectations by $3,230 for the month. Expenses have been running slightly ahead of Budget, and some early vigilance here may reap larger benefits as the year progresses. Generally, we are approximately on target for the first 2 months of the 2013 calendar year.

Respectfully, John Skewes, Treasurer

On the Inside:
From Our Pastor. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . . . .. . . . .. . . . .. . . . . Focus on Finance .. .. .. .. .. . .. . .. . CLAF Events .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . Make Your Money Go Further.. .. . . . .. .. . . . . . . . . . .. Special Thank you .. .. . .. . .. . . .. .. . . . . . .. . . . . .. . Mission Ministry . . . . . .. .. .. .. . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . FHPC Foundation.. .. .. . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. . . .. Presbyterian Women .. .. .. . .. . . . . .. . .. . . .. . . .. The WAY in April & May .. . .. . . . . PWP Gathering. .. . . .. .. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . New Members .. . .. .. . .. . .. .. .. . . .. .. . . . . . . . Youth Fundraising Dinner/Auction .. .. . .. . .. .. .. .. .. . . Youth Fundraising Dinner/Auction .. .. . .. . .. .. .. .. .. . Christian Formation . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .. .. . .. .. . . . . . From the Director of Christian Formation .. . . . . . . . . . Music Ministry .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. Evangelism Elder .. .. .. .. . .. .. . . . . .. . . . .. . . . . . . . BLOG: Check it out! .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . Library Footnotes.. .. . .. . . . . . . Need Accurate Addresses .. .. .. .. . .. . . .. .. . . Seminar for the Community .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. A Special Thank You.. . . . .. . . . .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. Spotlight...Did You Know? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Necrology for 2013 .. .. . . .. .. . .. . .. . .. Glimpse of home by another way.. . . .. .. . . . . . . . . .. April Birthdays .. .. .. . . .. .. Youth Fundraising Dinner/Auction .. . . . . . . . . . .... 1 2 3 3 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 14 15 16 16 17 17 18 19 19 19 20

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April

2013

Congregational Life and Fellowship

Come join us at the Queen Creek Olive Mill & Marketplace on

Tuesday, May 7th, 2013

We will meet at 9:30AM in the lower back parking lot of the church and carpool. Included: 30-minute Mill Tour at 10:30AM and a Pre-Ordered Box lunch (Gourmet Sandwich, Chips, Drink, Cup cake) immediately following tour. Wine is extra! Cost is $22.00 including tip! Shopping in the Marketplace can be enjoyed following lunch. Please Sign-Up early with Connie Harris (connietony@cox.net or 480-837-3566) or with Marta in the Church Office. Connie will be taking lunch orders and prepayment during April. Sponsored by CLAF!

Make Your Money Go Further

IRA Gifts to Charity Owners of Traditional Retirement Accounts (IRAs) must begin taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) at the age of 70 & . Considering the large number of FHPC congregational members in that age group, Federal guidelines represent an opportunity to benefit both Church and donor via a tax break allowing participants to make tax-free transfers of any amount up to $100,000 from an IRA to a 501(c) (3) charitable organization. Called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD), the distribution occurs by being directly conveyed to the charity from the IRA trustee (e.g. Fidelity). Qualified Charitable Distributions from an IRA are not included in a taxpayers taxable income, and the taxpayer does not take a deduction for the charitable donation. Further, qualified distributions satisfy all or a portion of required minimum distribution obligations. Another benefit: because transferred funds are excluded from adjusted gross income, one is able to decrease the taxable portion of Social Security benefits. Interested parties are invited to contact fellow Church member John Wyman on how he and Barbara have used this feature in fulfilling their annual pledge obligation. * Always consult your financial planner before making any decisions or moves.

Special Thank You to Violet Wieder for sewing the biblical costumes for Maundy Thursday. Thanks to Violet's donation of skill and time we now have our own adult costumes and such a blessing that some were made from fabric donated by Elizabeth Bugg. Check out the quality of these costumes! Call Violet at 480-837-1768 for any of your alterations and sewing needs! Her home business is personal and professional. I love to support our very own artists and businesses!

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In Touch

November 2012 page 4

Mission Ministry
These are such great missions and it feels so good to be part of such good works. I am convinced that God is pleased with these good works we are contributing to.

Extended Hands Food Bank

We continue to collect canned foods for this very important project. Thank you to all of you who so faithfully continue to bring this canned food every Sunday. We continue to collect your loose coins in those bright colored containers on Sundays. This money is also given to the Extended Hands Food Bank. The Mission Committee has also decided we can help out the Food Bank once a month in another way. We have decided that 3 or 4 of us will help serve and clean tables at the Friday Fish Fry. This last month we had 5 volunteers, they were: Bob and Susan Titus, Nancy Wulfmeier, Vivian Virden, and Susan Owens. This is a fun way to offer our help and we get to visit with our friends and fellow towns people. If this is of interest to you, call Susan Owens or Terri Schmidt.

Terri Schmidt and Susan Owens, Elders

Let us not become weary of doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we dont give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all People, especially those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:9-10
As it is spoken in the word, we will try and accomplish these acts. We here at Mission are trying to follow Gods words and do good works. I will try and fill you in on some of our current projects. If at any time you would like to join in on any of our projects, we would love to have you. The Mission committee meets on the 2nd Monday of every month, in the conference room of the office at 4:00pm. If you have any questions you can call Susan Owens or Terri Schmidt.

Changing Lives Center

As of this writing Susan Owens and Terri Schmidt will have gone down to Changing Lives Center to take some used CDs and some candy and Easter goodies for the Women and Children who live down there. If you are interested in touring this facility let us know and we will set up a time to take you down.

Blankets Plus
This worthwhile project is headed up by Barbara and Gary Oakeson, and took place in February. This powerful mission is very worthwhile; they have provided many blankets, medical supplies, school kits, hygiene kits, and other important help, as it is needed in disaster stricken areas. This year we as a congregation, raised close to $2600.00. This is a Church best, YEAH!!!!! Our church has the honor of donating the most per capita for the Western District. Thank you to all who participated in this great mission, and a special Thank you to Barbara and Gary who head this project every year.

Starbuck Ministries
This is another ministry that Tom and Terry Martin have been involved in. They collect goodies from Starbucks and individually wrap them. Then Tom and his helpers, take them downtown Phoenix and distribute them to the needy. If this sounds like something that you would be interested in helping with, you can contact Tom or Terry Martin. This is a recap of some of the things going on here at Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church. We are still working on some other projects and we will ask for your help when we get them off the ground. Remember God has called us to go out and do good works in his name.

One Great Hour of Sharing

This was money that was collected on Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday. As of the writing of this newsletter we have collected $1165.00. But these donations are turned over to the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, who then disperses these funds, as they are needed around the USA as well as foreign countries. I am hoping we collected as much for this project as we did for Blankets Plus.

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In Touch

April 2013 page 4

Mission Ministry
13 EASTER BOXES SHIPPED
There are many, many steps that must take place first in order to get a box ready to be shipped to Afghanistan/and/or other areas. As an example, here are most of the steps: items need to be collected, separated, sorted and counted; bagged, and then boxed. For a box to be completely ready for shipping, lists and labels need to be made from names collected of deployed military; custom forms need to be filled out; cards/notes need to be signed and collected; and the next to the last step is taping the box shut. You may wonder what the last step is and it is, taking the boxes to the post office. Each and every one of these steps is what it takes in order to get to the very last step, which is the trip to the post office. Many thanks to all who donated snacks for the boxes and who signed Easter cards. And many thanks to all who volunteered to help put the boxes together. In fact, for the first time, there were more volunteers than were needed and thats a very good thing to have happen. Many, many thanks to Sandy Heunisch, Violet Wieder, Yvonne Ellingson and Vivian Virden who gave of themselves to help in this very important Mission. In addition to the Easter Boxes to Afghanistan, each of our Church-connected military (all currently Stateside) will receive personal Easter greetings. As a final note, any and all leftover snacks were taken to the local Extended Hands Food Bank and of course I told them that the edibles were from the FHPC. Donna Sims, Deacon
Vivian Virden

Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church Foundation

An Investment Today for the Life of Our Church Tomorrow
Did you know? The Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church Foundation provides a mean for you to leave your legacy and final testimony of your faith and values in our Church. If you have a question, ASK!!!!

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In Touch

December 2011 page 6

Presbyterian Women
Presbyterian Women Coordinating Team for 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 Hooked on Books Leader: Barb Wyman Out n About Leader: Arlene Olsen

Important Dates to Keep In Mind:

Bible Study Help with Rev. Stan Jones Meet the 4th Thursday of the month except for holidays: 10:30 Am Adult Center...April 25, 2013. Spring Gathering April 6, 2013 10 AM Gifts of Women Sunday April 14, 2013 Christian books that we do not already have in the church Library.

MEETINGS Coordinating Team - On the First Friday of every month. Meeting is at 9 AM and held in the Adult Center. Will meet on April 5, 2013. Morning Circle will meet at 9:00 am in the Adult Center on April 11 ( second Thursday) Carol Fuls - Circle Leader Bible Study Program lesson will be led by Joy Fick. Lesson #8The Bad Seed 1 John 2; 2 Peter 2-3; Jude 1-16 Afternoon Circle will meet at 1:00 pm on the first Tuesday of the month in Room 124 at the Assisted Living Building at Fountain View Village on April 2, 2013. Circle leader is Marty Baxter. Please call 837-3275 (Marty) if you need a ride. Evening Circle meets on April 23 at 7 PM. Every 4th Tuesday. Hostess is Donna Yordy 16800 El Lago Blvd #1076 (837-6169) Co-Hostess: Virginia Nelson Lesson #8 Bible Study leader will be Evelyn Hrunek

GIFTS OF Women Sunday April 14, 2013 9:00 AM Service

On Sunday, April 14, we will be celebrating the Gifts of Women. Special music is planned with the melodious sounds of the Native American flute to prepare us to enter into worship. An anthem will be sung by the womens chorus and Linda Covault will perform a special piano and vocal selection. An animated musical Benediction will be a very moving and uplifting ending to send us on our way into the new week. The message will be presented by the Reverend Martha Sadongei, pastor of Central Presbyterian Church in Phoenix. Central Presbyterian is the original Phoenix Indian Church founded in 1915. Today the congregation is represented by 15 different tribes. We look forward to celebrating the Gifts of Women to our church and our community both locally and globally. All are invited to attend and bring a friend. There will be a rehearsal on April 11, at 6:30 p.m., that is on the Thursday before, to learn the music, and another rehearsal on that Sunday, April 14, at 8 a.m., just to make sure we remember it. Your voices are welcome! Its a wonderful experience to sing together! Please do!

April 6 PW Spring Gathering

The Spring Gathering will be at 10:00 AM. BOOK SHOWER We were able to place an order through the Cokesbury representative with a discount for all the books on the 2013-14 PW Reading List when she was here for the recent PWP Gathering. So we primarily need donations toward that order. And of course we always accept donations of gently used good

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PW continued continued from page 6

April 2013

ATTENTION FHPC WOMEN !

Gently used womens clothing and accessories will be collected Friday, April 26 between 9-9:30 AM. at the church upper parking area for delivery to the CLOTHES SILO. All articles that women might need on a job, including jewelry, shoes, purses, dresses, skirts, blouses, suits, jackets, and slacks are needed. Please bring clothing on coat hangers. The Clothes Silo is a WHEAT (World Hunger Education, Advocacy & Training) project based in Phoenix.

Easter Baskets
Thank you for your generous and gracious support of our Easter Basket project to the kids at the Devereux Center. We were able to present the kids with 48 baskets! The children of the Devereux Center send their heartfelt thanks.

We thank Sylvia Burke for leading our recent Beth Moore Bible Study on Monday evenings. It was well attended and most appreciated by all the women who came. We are blessed to have Sylvia's expertise and heart for Bible study.

On The Way in April & May!

Can you hear me now??? PRAYING THE PSALMS

Gods people have always sought ways to communicate with the Divine. In Jesus day his closest friends asked him to teach them how to pray. In our time writers as diverse as Bill Hybels, Richard Foster and Philip Yancey have all published best-selling books on prayer. But, the people of God have had a guide to prayer for 3,000 years now. The book of Psalms gathers 150 of the prayers of our Israelite parents into an often-surprising volume which provides our confused spirits and tonguetied hearts a language with which to address our God. The Psalms cover the gamut of human experience. From heartbreak to joy, from rage to love, from fear to hope its all here. Join us on The Way for 6 Wednesday evenings, beginning April 17th, as we uncover the remarkable relevance of the Psalms to our contemporary lives. Pastor Bill leads our exploration in the FC from 6:30-7:30. Fellowship and dinner precedes at 6:00. Come join us!
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HOOKED ON BOOKS will meet on Wednesday,

April 17th, at the home of Barbara Oakeson at 9:30 am. Elsie Hoffarber will review the book The Oatman Massacre, a true tale of two young girls captured by Indians in early Arizona. One of them later returned to white society and was able to make her story known. All women who enjoy reading are invited to attend. Bring books to share if desired.

Out n AboutOut to Lunch

Wednesday, April 17 is the date for our next Out n About luncheon. We will meet at 12:00 noon at Tonto Verde and, as usual, will receive separate checks that include tip and tax. Contact Arlene Olsen at 837-4271 for reservations.

In Touch
Presbyterian Women of the Presbytery of Grand Canyon

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Spring Gathering

A Thank You from Donna Yordy, Moderator

BIBLE ANSWERS
On Saturday, March 16th our PW hosted the Presbyterian Women in the Presbytery of Grand Canyon Spring Gathering. One hundred twenty-six women from 20 churches across the valley and state attended the event. Dr. Christensen was our guest speaker in the morning and during his talk and question and answer time he informed us that they had treated 6500 children last year. He informed us as to how the program has expanded to meet the needs of the children and how he expects the program to develop in the future. Many personal items were brought in by the women for the children treated by the CrewsnHealthmobile. Dr. Christensens assistant said she had already spent four hours sorting and bagging the items and still had most of it yet to do. They were delighted with the results of the mission project. Special thanks to our PW Moderator, Ilene Berg, Terry Martin for portraying the Woman at the Well, the women of our congregation, and the men who manned the sound system and took the photographs, for their support and help. This was a group effort and every job was important. Each one of you helped make the gathering a wonderful experience for the women across the valley who attended. Thank you!
When in sorrow, read John 14 When men fail you, read Psalm 27 When you have sinned, read Psalm 51 When you worry, read Matthew, 6: 19-34 If you have the blues, read Psalm 34 When God seems far away, read Psalm 139 If you are discouraged, read Isaiah 40 If you are lonely or fearful, read Psalm 23 If you feel down and out, read Romans 8:39 When you want courage for your task, read Joshua 1 When the world seems bigger than God, read Psalm 90 When you want rest and peace, read Matthew 11:25-30 When leaving home for labor or travel, read Psalm 121 If you get bitter or critical, read 1st Corinthians 13 If thinking of investments and returns, read Mark 10:17-31 For a great invitation, a great opportunity, read Isaiah 55
The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

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.

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April 2013

New Members
ALFRED CHRISTENSON
He is a winter visitor from Denver, Colorado, and is joining us as an affiliate. His home church is the First Presbyterian Church of Littleton, CO. He came to Fountain Hills for a 2 month stay in 2011 and liked it so much he and Susan bought a house and extended their stay to 5 months. He was a CPA for 40 years and retired in 1987.He likes reading, bridge, walking and movies. When we asked What brought you to our church? He responded that he likes our Presbyterian style of Worship. They have 3 children: Jeff, Battle Creek, MI; Curtis, Austin, TX; and Karyn, Annapolis, Maryland. They have 7 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. They enjoy boating, bridge and music. Kay is a retired nurse. Byron had a Family Business consisting of coal, fuel oil, heating, air-conditioning, lighting fixtures, fireplaces and furniture. He is a 55 year member of the Kiwanis Club in Battle Creek where he recorded 44 years of perfect attendance. Our location and friendly people brought them to our church.

SUE MUMMA

CYNTHIA LINTON & MURRAY JONES

They have lived on East Eagle Crest Rd, Fountain Sue has lived on Hills, since late April North Tower Dr. 2012. They are joining by in Fountain Hills since October of Letter of Transfer from 2012. She is First United Methodist Church of Birmingham, joining us as an Michigan where Murray affiliate. Her was a member of numerhome church is ous committees and Chair the First Presbyterian Church in of Pastor Parish for 3 Littleton, Coloyears. Murray and Cynthia celerado, where she brated 25 years of marhas served as a riage just after ThanksDeacon and she giving last year. Cynthia is also on the renovation and was living in Tucson and decorating comMurray convinced her to move, reluctantly, to mittee. Murray Jones, Cynthia Linton, Sue Mumma and Al Christensen. Bloomfield Hills outside She has 2 sons Byron & Kay Hodgson not pictured. of Detroit. and a daughter. Her sons were Eagle Scouts and her daughter was a synThey have 2 sonsTrip (Murray 3rd) and Chase, who are engineering students at Michigan Tech. chronized swimmer who swam in the Junior Olympics. Both Cynthia and Murray are engineers by training. She also has 8 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Murray retired in his mid 50s, but he failed retireHer passion and hobby is decorating and she also enjoys ment within a couple of years and went back to work, hiking, movies and get-togethers with family and and, work is what brought them to Phoenix, and then friends. She has already joined our morning circle. She attended our church last year for 3 months and was the beauty and small town feel brought them to impressed with the friendliness and warmth of the conFountain Hills. Prior to raising 2 sons, Cynthia worked at Nasa, G.E. gregation. and GM. She is already involved in the Celebration Singers and the Celebration Bell Ringers and she BYRON & KAY HODGSON also attends Bible study. The Hodgsons live on East Gail Road in Scottsdale. The community of our church brought them to us. They are winter visitors who have lived in Arizona for 20 years. -Gail Botsford, Evangelism Elder They are joining as affiliates; their home church is the First Presbyterian church in Richland, Michigan where For information about membership see page 14. Byron served 2 terms on the Session.

In InTouch Touch

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Youth Fundraising Dinner/Auction

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April 2013

Youth Fundraising Dinner/Auction

In Touch

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Christian Formation
Blessed Beginnings Ministry
We continue to be busy growing our activities and doing God's work. Do stop, check out and join in any of our many functions. We welcome all who wish Carol Hencz, Elder 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. 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. So far, we have been having between 2-4 little ones each Sunday. We will always offer more to provide a Christian ministry with children - even the babies. free). Come and join us for a real family gathering of food and knowledge.

Mens Bible Study

Whats In It For Me? Whats in it for me? That is the question which, deep down, may be appropriately asked by some men within our church when considering whether or not to get up early enough to attend the Mens Bible Study every Thursday morning at 7:00 a.m. Why should I go to the Adult Center at that hour? The answer to these questions may not be so obvious. First of all, this Bible Study affords men with the opportunity to read, explore, discuss, and learn about Jesus Christ Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9: 6). These study sessions are NOT lectures. They include reading together verses of Scripture in chapters of selected books and asking questions about their meaning and application to our lives today. We most often take turns leading the discussion which results in a desire to dig in a little deeper into the context and insight of the times and culture -when and by whom the text was written. We are amazed by the stories, histories, laws, prayers, poems, letters, visions, prophesies we find in the Bible. Another important benefit is the bonding which occurs with other men who share with each other their backgrounds, experience, and perspectives. We grow close as we participate over a cup of coffee and a donut. A side advantage is learning more about how to find our way through the Bible. God speaks to us through Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit the Trinity. It can be God speaking to us through people; it can also be people speaking to God; or it can be people speaking to people. We gain understanding of people (who have changed little through the centuries) and thereby increase our understanding of the Bible. FHPC Men wont you join us every Thursday morning at 7:00 a.m. in the Adult Center? By participating you will see whats in it for YOU. Why not?
- John Bivens

Sabbath Day Bible Study

(formerly Pastors Bible study) What does the Bible, written centuries ago, have to say to the members and friends of Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church in the world today? How do we know? What opportunities do we have for spiritual growth and service to God? We do not have all the answers, but we need to work together to find them. One good way is to study not just read the Bible. Perhaps we should openly pose these and other questions to God and wait patiently while listening for his response. Pastor Bill and the Session offer opportunities for Bible Study and spiritual growth at Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church. One important Bible Study possibility is at 10:30 a.m. each Sunday in the Adult Center after the first worship service and fellowship. This study period was formerly known as the Pastors Bible Study. With the advent of the second worship service Home by Another Way at 11:15, the leadership of the Sabbath Day Bible Study has shifted to allow Pastor Bill to lead this Intergenerational Worship Service. All who are interested are invited to join in this Bible Study at 10:30 a.m. with John Bivens in the Adult Center. We enjoy reading the Scriptures, discussing the meanings, and learning about the word of God. Please join us!

The Way (formerly Wednesday evening Family Night) On Wednesday evenings, after dinner, Pastor Bill leads the adults in a one hour Bible study from 6:30 7:30p.m. (There will be no THE WAY for adults on April 3 & 10). See
page 7 for more details.

Meeting from 5 6pm, the Elementary kids are still traveling in The Big God Story and now in the New Testament. The ministry has worship, music, traditions, storytelling, response and small group conversation and activity time. Our Teens have had Marilyn Pape as special guest, family therapist-counselor for the month of March with the teens on the topic of relationships. Watch for glow in the dark hunt for them! The month of April they will begin a series on the four stages in the Bible that are repeated over and over throughout scripture. The biblical story is everyone's story that is connected to God's ultimate story. Of course, we still have the 30 hour Famine to schedule with the mission and a social in the making! 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

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April 2013

From the Director of Christian Formation

On the palm of your hand you write my name, O God. Through the pages of creation, my life unfolds. In the chambers of your heart, I have a home, O God, where every cry is heard, every tear seen, every thanks whispered in the dark or sung to the morning is known to you. And still, I am slow to thank, to ask, to trust. O God, who is great and good, Help me to pray. Amen. From Pam HawkinsThe Awkward Season Prayers for Lent Engaging in Gods Presence creatively and actively Prayer is more than listening to and talking with God. Our lives are a prayer. It was wonderful to be able to offer a workshop on Praying in Color Doodling Prayers with Debby - for some of our elementary kids between services on Palm Sunday. Life is active and resting, verbal and nonverbal, changing our outside world and being changed inside, as is and does prayer. Kids discovered ways to focus their hearts and minds on God actively to find rest in Him for real life happenings. Love the truth in paradox! Enjoy their doodle prayers and know you might have been in their prayers! Smack in the middle of everyday life is where prayer and intimacy with God need to be developed. Richard J Foster Streams of Living Water Special Thank You to our Church Family and Friends Thank you for participating in the dinner/auction to raise funds to send youth and leaders to the Presbyterian Youth Triennium held at Purdue University mid July. To date we have raised $6686. Thank you for being a ge ner o us a nd sup p o r tive church! Special kudos to: Helen and Bill Quigley auction crew, Terri Schmidt - kitchen crew, Tyson Robinson-teen crew. Extra special hugs to the Hissler girls, Charlotte and Johanna, and the teens for doing what ever was needed! 30 Hour Famine time is still to be determined as Tyson and Kristi are soon to have their first child and I am on call for my first granddaughter making the mid of April through most of May quite tentative for us! Stay tuned! Hear Ye Hear Ye! Enter the Epic Adventure.that empowers kids to stand strong. Gods victorious power isnt a fairytale --- it changes kids forever!

VBS is June 17 21 from 9 noon. Special Pony Ring Rides and Photo Ops June 21 from noon to 1 PM. Regardless of age, you will not want to miss this! VBS meeting for leaders and those interested in what Kingdom Rock will be about this year is Sunday, April 7 from 12:30 2:30 pm in the Youth Center. Enter through the draw bridge! Elementary KidCommunity is traveling through the Big God Story and is now in the new Testament. They have reached their goal and we will be planning a big party to celebrate their practicing the traditions of bringing their Bible, friends, knowing their remember Verse, having God Sightings and praying. The worship songs with motions have added a lot of energy and meaning to our worship. We love having guest story tellers in for the Big God Story! Come and join us one Wednesday at 5:00 pm! For Teens, Marilyn Pape has been a special guest, family therapist-counselor for the month of March on the topic of relationships. The month of April we will begin a series on the four stages in the Bible that are repeated over and over throughout scripture. Teens will be able to identify each stage regardless of where they are meeting God in scripture. The Simple Truth Bible devotional that correlates with our Simple Truth (that goes deep) content is available for $10.

Debby DeBernardi, Director

In Touch

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Music Ministry
Now that Easter Sunday is strong in our hearts and minds...we will continue into April with joyous celebration, singing and playing music that celebrates our risen Christ! Please make note of the following occasions in worship where the music will have a continuing flow of joy and delight: APRIL 7 " Musical Worship" This service will feature our musical groups presenting some of their favorite pieces to enhance our service, intertwined with the scripture. You will hear a special piece composed and directed by Eddie Madden, the current Conductor of the Fountain Hills Community Band. He is a fabulous Conductor with a long history of composing/conducting/teaching and a wonderful talent. APRIL 14 Gifts of Women Sunday The music in this service will be provided by the women of our congregation. Please know, ladies, that you are who the music is written and arranged for. There will be a rehearsal on April 11, at 6:30 p.m., that is on the Thursday before, to learn the music, and another rehearsal on that Sunday, April 14, at 8 a.m., just to make sure we remember it. Your voices are welcome! Its a wonderful experience to sing together! Please do! APRIL 14 Fountain Hills Choir Fest We are the blessed church who has been asked to host this extraordinary event this year, sponsored by the Fountain Hills Cultural and Civic Association. The acoustics of our church provide the listener with an experience every composer would hope for when writing their music. You will hear choirs from our local and nearby churches as well as from our church choir. You will hear selections from Dorothy Parris and Caryl Bates as they prepare joyous music for the occasion. It will begin at 2 p.m. and last about an hour. Refreshments will follow. To those of you who will be leaving our church community this month, thank you for all your love, sharing kind thoughts and words, your voices and your prayers. We wish you safe travel, happy days with family and friends back home, and a safe return. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. It is always good to see you when you return. Deborah Fisher Director of Music Ministries

Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.

Psalm 119:105

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. We periodically have Inquiry meetings for those interested in becoming members. *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. For additional information, please contact Gail Botsford at 412-613-3312 or call the church office at 480-837-1763.

Not Yet A Member?

If you are interested in joining our church family, please see or call Gail Botsford at 412-6133312 or call the church office at 480-837-1763.

Gail Botsford, Elder

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April 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.

The Road Less Traveled - Matthew 16:24

The cost of following Christ.
All too often, our fast-paced world chooses to overlook the concept that, anything worth having requires sacrice at some level. We are the instant gratication generation and the idea of pain for gain does not sit well with us. So, for many, the rewards of Heaven need to be offered at a comfortable price. Yet, the Gospels offer no room for such negotiation. Jesus did not mince words when He told His disciples, If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. Jesus tells us that there is a cost of following and He talks about a broad road, a narrow gate, and having to endure to the end. He even warns us that we had better count these costs before we decide to saddled up with Him. Thats a lot to ask, we might say. Whats the upside? I came that (you) may have life, and have it abundantly. In other words, the abundant life is the reward. Jesus tells us that the fullest life comes when we put others needs before our own; that true joy, love, peace - and Him are found at the back of the line rather than the front and that the rewards of Heaven await us on this unconventional road less traveled.

Michael Belk, artist

The scent of prayer

It sometimes happens that in a plot of unclean and filthy ground, flowers spring up and flourish, and the sweet scent of the flowers overpowers the evil smell of the place. The plants, turning toward the sun, receive from it light and heat, and the filth instead of being hurtful to the plants fertilizes them and helps them to grow and flourish. So, too, the man of prayer as he prays turns his heart to God, and receives from him light and warmth. Amidst the ill odors of this evil world, the sweet scent of his new and holy life glorifies God, and there is produced in him ,not sweet odors only, but also fruit that shall abide forever. - Sadhu Sundar Singh, At the Masters Feet The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

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In Touch

August 2011 page 16

Library Footnotes
Cross Roads by William Paul Young, author of The Shack. Anthony Spencer has it allmoney, property, power, influenceand those things have brought him isolation, loneliness and paranoia. A cerebral hemorrhage leaves Tony comatose in a hospital ICU. He awakens to find himself in a land that was once beautiful but has fallen into disrepair. He begins to walk, taking different paths by random choice until he finds a walled area that feels uninhabited. However, he is greeted by various people who seem to know a lot about him and they reveal themselves as Jesus, a Lakota woman (who is the Holy Spirit) and Jack. He soon learns that the walled enclosure is his soul and the isolation and shabbiness it shows is reflective of how he had lived his life. Because Tony is in a coma (not dead but not living) he has the opportunity to slide into the minds of others. Jesus promises Tony that he will be able to bring healing to one person. On this quest he meets 16-year-old Cabby, who has Downs Syndrome; Molly, Cabbys mother; Lindsey, Cabbys 14 year-old sister who is battling Leukemia and Maggie, housemate of these three. The interactions with these folk are memorable and through what he experiences, Tonys world is changed. Tony had not accepted Christ until he met him in his awakened state. He questioned Christ how he could possibly be able to heal some one, and Christ said, alone you cannot do this , but I will be there with you. As if for reassurance, Jesus takes Tonys hand and said, On this journey, you can choose to physically heal one person, but only one and when you make that selection your journey will end. Mr. Youngs book, The Shack, explored the theological idea that God, through Christ, continues to be connected to humanity. Cross Roads addresses the theological idea that God, through Christ, made community possibly by the reconciliation of human beings to each other. If you enjoyed The Shack, I recommend this book for your enjoyment and a little stretching of the mind as you contemplate What if?

- Vivian Virden

A word of wisdom
You cannot stay where you are and go with God. You cannot continue doing things your way and accomplish Gods purpose in his ways. Your thinking cannot came close to Gods thoughts. For you to do the will of God, you must adjust your life to him, his purposes and his ways.
- Henry Blackaby
The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

Our only job

Our job is to love others without stopping to inquire whether or not they are worthy. That is not our business and, in fact, it is nobodys business. What we are asked to do is to love, and this love itself will render both ourselves and our neighbors worthy.
The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

Important information about addresses!

We are now mailing out the monthly newsletter to all members, affiliate members, friends and prospective members. It is very important that we have a correct address for you. It is especially important for those of us who have two addresses. Our computer program can maintain two addresses and if we know your months of residency here, the program knows which address to use for mailings. We mail out the newsletter in bulk mail. But if we have the wrong address, it gets returned to us and we are responsible for full postage for it and you miss out on the newsletter. Can you please help us and insure that we have the correct dates for your alternate address? Please call or email the church office with your information. 480-837-1763 or fhpc.marta@gmail.com. Thank you for your time and caring.

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April 2013

Seminar for the Community

Do you suffer from joint pain that affects your enjoyment of life? Problems that impact your ability to sleep and do the things you love? Come learn more about non-surgical options for treatment of joint pain, injuries and degenerative issues using cellular therapies, such as stem cells and platelet rich plasma (PRP) to help improve pain and lessen disability. We will also discuss some of the directions stem cell research is taking both in the US and abroad.

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND INNOVATIONS IN STEM CELL THERAPY

By Rebecca Gelber, MD A graduate of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and former clinical Teacher of the Year a UC Davis School of Medicine Rebecca is the daughter of Charles and Marilyn Humes

Date: Saturday April 13, 2013 Time: 11:00 am

Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall
Sponsored by Four Peaks Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution

Concert Series 2013

A prayer
Give us, O Lord, a steadfast heart, Which no unworthy affection may drag downwards; Give us an unconquered heart, Which no tribulation can wear out; Give us an upright heart, Which no unworthy purpose may tempt aside. Bestow upon us also, O Lord our God, Understanding to know you, Diligence to seek you, wisdom to find you, And a faithfulness that may finally embrace you; Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Thomas Aquinas

We want to thank all the people that have helped to make our concert series a success this year. None of this would have been possible without each one of you over the years. Thanks also to the people attending! - Pat Covault - Donna Yordy

The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

In Touch

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Spotlight . Did you know?

Phil Katz I was born in New York City in 1953 and lived there for the first 10 years of my life (except for one). I spent my 7th year in London, England where my father was an exchange professor at the University of London. I have lived in Fountain Hills nearly 2 years. I joined the church shortly after I moved here so I guess Ive been a member for about two years. I have a brother whom I havent seen or heard from in 15 years. I was married for nearly 40 years, if you add the two marriages together; and now I am best friends with my second ex-wife. I guess the craziest thing I have ever done was while I was in college. I climbed to the top of a water tower, and to prove I had done so, I brought down the red globe from the light at the top. Unfortunately, a campus policeman was out of his squad car having a cigarette and noticed the light go from red to white. We dont need to discuss the outcome of that event. Lets just say I didnt graduate from Indiana University. My first job was pumping gas at a local gas station. My favorite job was helping to build an orphanage in Haiti about two years before the earthquake. It was so rewarding to be the hands and feet of Jesus I nearly didnt come back. I think the most interesting, and certainly the most rewarding accomplishment in my life, besides helping to raise my two boys and step-daughter, was becoming involved in the music ministry with Debbie Fisher. Debbie welcomed me, a guy with a half-way decent voice and some musical experience, and rekindled my love for singing and playing different instruments in different settings, for the glory of God. She has been such an inspiration, and is the main reason I am a member here today. She inspires everyone she touches from little kids to old guys like me. And I am forever the better for it. My first life-changing experience was breaking my hip helping someone move. I had always been truly self sufficient. I never believed I needed anyone or anything. I had accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior several years earlier, but it was all in my head and not in my heart. The Lord kept giving me hints and whispering to me about the way I was leading my life, and after destroying two marriages I was alone. When I wouldnt hear his whispers, he simply knocked me off my horse and put me in a position where I had to rely on others, people I didnt even know, for the most basic of things. I couldnt even wash myself. During the months following the accident, and being out of work and separated from my second wife, I learned to rely on the kindness of strangers. Sounds like a clich but it wasnt for me. I couldnt walk for 3 months even with crutches. I didnt have a job or any money left in savings, but somehow, God always provided something. A project I could do sitting down that paid enough to eat that week. Then when I could walk, installing satellite TV for DirecTV, working at a hot dog stand just doing anything I could to make ends meet. The most amazing part of it all is that I have good friends who know about my situation, and know they will likely be laid off soon, but arent freaking out about it because they saw me get through it with Gods help. The best advice I can give is to put your faith and your trust in Jesus Christ. In answering the question, who would you say had the most impact on your life, Phil wrote, Oh Lord.. thats difficult. My second wife, my sons, Debbie Fisher and Bill Good, not necessarily in that order. You ask me who I had the most positive impact on. That is difficult to say. I spent the first 50 years of my life being an anti-role model. Lately I hope its been my sons and stepdaughter. My best advice would be dont listen to much advice from people. We are all flawed. The best advice I have ever gotten was either from The Holy Bible, or in Prayer from Him. I love being in the choir, the ringers, and playing for the alternative service. I guess I like the music the best and have unending love and respect for Debbie Fisher who leads that ministry. I am honored that I have been chosen for this spotlight. I hope my answers above have given you enough insight to who I am just another guy who loves the Lord and loves this church. God Bless you too !!

Unlikely Inspiration
Jose Mujica, who became president of Uruguay in 2010, has been called the poorest president. Even while serving in high office, he lives on an austere farm owned by his wife, a senator. The couple grows flowers for income, and Mujicas only asset is an old Volkwagen Beetle. Although he makes more than $12,000 a month as president, Mujica donates most of it 90 percent in 2012 - to charitable causes. Mujica claims not to believe in God. Yet God can accomplish great things even through people who reject him. President Mujicas generosity serves as a model and an inspiration for all, especially for Christians. The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

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April 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. A glimpse of...

With deepest sympathy we list those members who have passed away in 2013. Herbert Robinson Goldie Demeter Jean Bricker Dean Heiser
Well done, Thou good and faithful servant. Enter thou into the joy Of thy Lord.
Matthew 25:21

home by another way

Every Sunday at 11:15 AM

After Easter
After is every Christians middle name. In his autobiography A Song of Ascents, missionary E. Stanley Jones tells of an African man who changed his name to After immediately following his conversion. Because all things were new and different and important after he met Christ, the man wanted to reflect that new reality in his name as well as in his thinking. Easter is what makes us After Christians. After Easter, nothing in life is ever the same again.
The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

HAPPY APRIL BIRTHDAYS!

4/01 4/01 4/03 4/03 4/03 4/03 4/04 4/04 Gary Oakeson Donna Ryan Nate McGuire Rich Price Marian Smith Robert Thompson Helen Roesch Natalie Vawter 4/05 4/05 4/06 4/08 4/10 4/10 4/19 Pat Covault Kristi Robinson Jake Hagerty Jo Strehlow Robert Larson Mike McWethy Pat Tuttle 4/20 4/20 4/21 4/22 4/25 4/27 4/28 4/29 Irene Cain Ken Root Sr. Marsha Brizzie Paula Eberspacher Linda Warren Debby Debernardi Ron Christie Amy Martinson

Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church 13001 N. Fountain Hills Boulevard Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

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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, Arlene Olsen and Vivian Virden. Travel to Bulk Mail Post Office: Mary Martinson.

Youth Fundraising Dinner/Auction

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