FOUNTAIN HILLS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

IN TOUCH
Fountain Hills, AZ

September 2015

From Elder, Mary Alice Bivens

THANKS-GIVING!
I bow down toward your holy temple and give thanks to your name
for your steadfast love and your
faithfulness; for you have exalted
your name and your word above
everything.
(Psalm 138:2)
We need look no further than our
experiences together as a church in
this past year to recognize the extraordinary ways in which our God
builds his church under pressure
and strengthens it through adversity.
2015 has been a year in which our commitment to our Lord and
to one another has been profoundly tested. And yet. . .
We have walked patiently and unharmed through the protracted and potentially divisive conversations surrounding
our ongoing denominational affiliation.
We have stood quietly together as our integrity has been
questioned by misguided reporting in the public media.
We have extended our hands joyously in fellowship, ministry, and mission to the community of Fountain Hills in
ways unimagined just a few years ago.
Through it all we have emerged stronger than we were just a
year ago; more sure of what we believe, why we believe it, and
who we are called to be in response. God has blessed us with
increase in the strength of our faith and the size of our fellowship.
So, let us take a moment to join the psalmist in giving God
thanks: I bow down toward your holy temple and give thanks

FHPC VISION & MISSION STAMENTS

Our Vision:

to your name for your steadfast love and your faithfulness;

for you have exalted your name and your word above everything.
But, then let us move beyond mere words. Let us express
our thanks-giving by offering our lives and our resources in
continued commitment to the work to which God calls us as
a family of faith.
As we enter into the 2016 pledge season at FHPC, I urge
each of you to thoughtfully and prayerfully consider what
share of our obligations you are willing and able to provide.
A faithful Christian steward is deeply grounded in their
faith. . . to the extent of always being ready to financially
support the work of our Lords church. The theory that:
Trusting that God will provide is good only insofar as we
recognize that Gods means of provision are the stewards to
which he has entrusted his kingdom on earth. You will
soon receive a Stewardship Pledge Card for the coming
church year. How sure is your trust and how deep is your
faith? Will you provide in the name of God?
The church buildings, structures, budgets and programs are
not ends in themselves; but, means to an end. However,
they are essential to our work and worship. As such, our
ongoing operational expenses necessitate the commitment
of each member of our family to share in providing the
wherewithal to maintain our facilities, provide for our staff,
and fund the programs which are bringing the kingdom into
being here on this hilltop.
What this means is that we each of us! are stakeholders
in FHPC; and that we each of us! -- must assume a share
in meeting its financial obligations! Thats what makes for
a good steward and what a Stewardship Campaign is all
about! Lets have a passionate commitment to Jesus Christ
so that we realize that with God all things are possible!
Are we capable of doing this? I know so! Are we willing
to do this? After all God has done among us in this past
year, I believe so!

Living Gods love.

calls us to . . .
Our Mission :

Reach out to all with faith and love.

Gods blessing to you and your family,

Mary Alice Bivens
Stewardship Chairperson

In Touch

page 2

Focus on Finance

OUR CHURCH STAFF

Rev. Bill Good
Pastor/Head of Staff

Rev. Stan Jones

July Income

$ 29,670

Budget

$ 32,100

Parish Associate

July Expense

$ 34,133

Budget

$ 32,663

Yr to date Income

$ 265,301

Budget

$ 256,800

Yr to date Expense $ 244,020

Budget

$ 249,997

Pastor Ken Brown

Associate Pastor

Debby DeBernardi
Director Christian Formation

Marta Ludwig
Administrative Coordinator

Debbie Fisher
Director of Music Ministry

Dorothy Parris
Pianist

Caryl Bates
Organist

Lynn Medley
Custodian

CHURCH TREASURER
Linda Lull
CHURCH SESSION
Class of 2015
John Brockelman
Helen Quigley
Terri Schmidt
Chris Young
Class of 2016
Sally Atchinson
Bob Lull
John Skewes
Arlene Stewart
Class of 2017
Mary Alice Bivens
Bonnie Hollabaugh
Aleyne Larsen-Craig
Helen Roesch
Ron Waldo
BOARD OF DEACONS
Moderator: Nancy Wulfmeier
Class of 2015
Ben Fast
Jack Morris
Ruby Pearson
Bev Watters
Class of 2016
Suzie McCready
Dorothy Rudack
Donna Sims
Nancy Wulfmeier
Class of 2017
Michele Hasley
Mary Lee Lehrich
Cynthia Linton
Linda Warren
******

We lost some ground in July, income is down by $2,430. YTD income is ahead
of budget by $8,501. July expenses are over budget by
$1,471 but so far we are holding the expenses down
YTD by $5,977. We've had some unforeseeable expenses, such as repairs to the fire alarm system, as well
as timing differences on some line items that are budgeted for later in the year. Although it appears that we
are in a positive position comparing Actual Income
YTD to Actual Expenses, we have several months to
go, with concerns whether pledges and contributions
will be met.
Respectfully,
Linda Lull, Treasurer

On the Inside:
Elder Mary Alice Bivens .. .. .. .. . . . .. . .. . . . . .. . . . .. .
Focus on Finance .. .. .. .. .. . .. . .. . .. . .
Youth Center Update .. .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . ..
Media Ministry .. .. . . . .. .. . . .. .. . .. .. . . . . . . .. . ..
Mission Ministry . . . . . .. .. .. .. . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . ..
Presbyterian Women .. .. .. . .. . . . . .. . .. . . .. . . .. ..
How Can You Help? .. . . .. .. .. .. . . .. .. . .. . . . . . . . . .
Lockboxes for Seniors. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . . .. . ..
Not Yet a Member? .. .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .
Dorothy Parris Honored.. . . . . . . .. .. . . .. .. . . . . .. .. ..
Interns in FHPC .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . . .. . . .. .. . . . .. . .
Inquiry Class.. .. . .. . . . . .. .. .. . .. . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Christian Formation .. . .. . .. .. .. .. . .. . . . . .. . .. . . . .. .
Sabbath Day Bible Study .. . .. .. . .. .. . .. . . .. .
From the Director of Christian Formation .. . . . . . . . . . ..
This and That .. .. . .. . .. . .. . .. .. . .. .. . .. . . .. .
FHPC Foundation.. .. .. .. . .. .. . .. .. .. .. . . . . . . . . .
Recognizing a stroke.. .. .. .. . .. .. . .. .. . .. . .. . . .
Gardener needed for small job .. .. . .. .. .. .. . . .. ..
Library Footnotes.. .. . .. . . . . . ...
Music Ministry .. .. .. .. .. . . . . . .. . . .. . . . . .. . ..
Member Spotlight...Did you Know? .. .. .. .. .. .. . . . ...
Necrology for 2015 .. .. . . .. .. . .. . . .. . .
Toss your turtle aside .. .. . . .. .. . . . .. .. . . . . . .. .
September Birthdays .. .. .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . ..
Stop and smell the roses . .. .. .. . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .

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September 2015

Project: Update Youth Center

Old room

New Paint

We need your help!

The Deacons have started an ongoing project of redecorating the Youth Center. The desire is to remodel this space
to reflect His purpose and FHPC uniqueness. The walls have been painted and new flooring will be installed. It is
our hope that other groups and individuals will benefit from the remodel project and will find it as
one they could willingly contribute to monetarily. There is so much more to do to make this room the
welcoming place it can be.
Please consider this as a way to give praise to our Lord. Thank you!
Nancy Wulfmeier,
Deacon Moderator

Not all ministry is in front of the congregation, there is much to do behind the scenes as well! The
tech team could use some willing volunteers who feel called to use their talents behind the spotlight.
We need a few people to learn the video and sound equipment to serve as coverage during vacations
and unexpected times of need. If you have an interest, we could use people in either service. Please
contact Ron Waldo at 480-228-1575 for more information about how you can be involved!

page 5

November 2012
page 4

In Touch

Mission Ministry
Romans 12:13 NIV says: Share with
the Lord's people who are in need.
Practice Hospitality. As I hear these
words, I think of all the people in Phoenix that are in need of our help, then I
think of all the people here in Fountain
Hills who need it. We here on the Mission Committee are trying to come up
with new ideas to reach out to these
people. We have begun a few new
Terri Schmidt, Elder
projects this month and we want to
share these with you, as well as updating you on the things
we are continuing to do.

Backpack full of School Supplies

We asked for help getting school supplies to those children on
the Extended Hands Food Bank
roster, and you were gracious by
coming forth and helping. Max's
Closet took the lead in this endeavor and we joined in to help.
Our goal was to fill and provide
130 backpacks full of school
supplies, I am happy to report
that we were able to provide 150
backpacks. Thank you to all who helped.

Extended Hands Food Bank

Thank you for all the non-perishable foods that you continue
to bring in every Sunday. This is one of our longest Mission
projects. We appreciate all of you who are so generous.
Extended Hands Food Bank's Friday Night Fish Fry starts
back up for the season on Friday September 4th. We will be
there to help serve again this year. We will help out the first
Friday of each month. Come out and join us. If this is something you feel like you would like to help with, you can contact Terri Schmidt.

Backpacks full of School Supplies Project II

With some of
the backpacks
and
school
supplies that
we have left
over we have
found another
good project,
this is called
Valley One-nTen. This is a
Youth Center
downtown on 3rd and Camelback. This Youth Center is
a very important to the youths who have been kicked out
of their homes or who have run away for various reasons.
They are also in need of school supplies to help these
kids stay in school and get a much needed education. So
many times these young people turn to prostitution and
drugs, that is why this Youth Center is so vital to downtown Phoenix. It not only provides a place for the kids to
go and get help, but to get encouragement and positive
reenforcements.

Week-ender Bags
This was previously a PW mission project. We will continue supporting it as best we can. If you have previously
gone to Mesa to help pack these bags to help school children with food for the weekends, we would like to encourage you to continue doing so.
We in Mission will continue
some financial support. These
are bags of food that are
packed and approximately 5060 come back to Fountain
Hills. This is another important way that we can help our local Fountain Hills people.

Water for MANA House

Thank you to all who have so generously donated water or money for
water for this cause. We have to
date collected over 40 cases of water
(some cases held 40 bottles) and
$55.00. The homeless Veterans
downtown need this extra water
during the summer heat. They need it all year long, just more
in the summer. We will continue to collect water for this very
important Mission Project.

Support Our Troops/Veterans

Donna Sims has let us in on some of her future projects.
We will continue to help her in her endeavors. Look for
news later this fall for another clothes drive for the Veterans downtown at MANA House and other facilities that
help our Veterans.
Continued on next page...

In Touch

page 5

September 2015
page 4

Mission Ministry
High School Snack Packs
We are collecting again for the High School snack packs. This project was
started last year when we discovered that there were many High School students who go to school hungry and have no food for lunches. We will be
colleting breakfast bars, juice boxes, crackers stuffed with peanut butter or
cheese, individual packs of nuts, and non-refrigerated chocolate milk boxes.
These things will be taken to the school nurse and the kids who want can
come into her office and pick up a brown bag with some of these snacks in
it. These snacks can make a difference if the child feels well enough to remain in school for the day as well as give them energy to learn. This is another easy way for us to help those in town in need of food.
We are looking into more new projects, and as they develop we will let you
know. We are so excited that we are able to reach out and help those less
fortunate than us. We trust that the Lord will continue to bless us as a
Church and as his Children. Would you like to join our committee and help
us find new ways in which God continues to lead us to do his work. We
meet the 2nd Monday of the month at 4:00 in the Conference room and
would love to have you join us. May God continue to work through us, as
we help others.
- Terri Schmidt, Mission Elder

Plain White Flour--who knew?

Once I was cooking some corn and stuck my fork in the boiling water to see if the corn was ready. I missed and my hand
went into the boiling water....A friend of mine, who was a Vietnam vet, came into the house, just as I was screaming, and
asked me if I had some plain old flour...I pulled out a bag and he stuck my hand in it. He said to
keep my hand in the flour for 10 minutes. Which I did. He said that in Vietnam , this guy was on
fire and in their panic, they threw a bag of flour all over him to put the fire out...well, it not only
put the fire out, but he never even had a blister!!!!
So, I put my hand in the bag of flour for 10 minutes, and then pulled it out and had no red mark
or a blister and absolutely NO PAIN. Now, I keep a bag of flour in the fridge and every time I
burn myself, I use the flour and never ONCE have I ever had a red spot, a burn or a blister!
*cold flour feels even better than room temperature flour. Miracle, if you ask me. Keep a bag of white flour in your fridge
and you will be happy you did. I even burnt my tongue and put the flour on it for about 10 minutes, and the pain was gone
and no burn. Try it! Don't run your burn area under cold water first, just put it right into the flour for 10 minutes and
experience a miracle!

Facebook
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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December 2011
page 6

In Touch

Presbyterian Women
Presbyterian Women Coordinating Team for 2015-2016
Moderator, Maurene Gerson
Librarian, Barbara Oakeson
Vice-Moderator (Program), Sandi Thompson
Historian, Office Angels
Secretary, Bonnie Matty
Search Committee, (open)
Treasurer, Maria Berry
Membership Directory, Arlene Stewart
Publicity, Ilene Berg
Bible Study Coordinator, Jean Linzer
Mission Coordinator, Sandy Larson
New Member Contact, Carol Fuls
Circle Leaders
Morning Circle, Suzie McCready, Joy Fick
Afternoon Circle, Martha Baxter
Evening Circle, Judy Irvin
Hooked on Books, Leader, Jan Hoff
Out N About Leader, Nancy Wulfmeier

SEPTEMBER EVENTS
September 1
September 4
September 10
September 21
September 16

1 p.m.
9 a.m.
9 a.m.
7 p.m.
9:30 a.m.

Afternoon Circle, Fountain View Village

Coordinating Team Meeting, Adult Center, FHPC
Morning Circle, Adult Center, FHPC
Evening Circle, home of Chris & Jen Young
Hooked on Books, Elsie Hoffarbers home

NEW LEADERS ON COORDINATING TEAM

We are overjoyed every time a new member joins a PW

group. We are especially pleased when longstanding members
of FHPC decide to join!
Sandy Larson will be serving as Mission Coordinator. Sandy
has been a member of FHPC since January 2015. She serves
on the Arizona Caregiver Coalition Board, volunteers for the
FH Library delivering books to the homebound and volunteers
for the annual FH Make a Difference Day.
Sandi Thompson, a long time member of FHPC and community advocate, will be serving as Vice-Moderator (Programs)
on the Coordinating Team. Jackie Miles will be serving on the
Program Committee.

Arlene Stewart is a serving Elder on Session at FHPC and

the chef responsible for the delicious meals served to participants of The Way on Wednesday afternoons. Arlene
will be responsible for preparing the annual PW Membership Directory.
Jean Linzer has taken the position of Bible Study Coordinator. Jean has been an active member of FHPC for many
years as well as an ambassador for our community.
We welcome each of these ladies and extend our gratitude
to them for sharing their time and talent with PW!

page 7

September 2015

Fountain Hills Presbyterian Women

One Body, One Spirit
In June, two ladies from FHPW traveled to Minneapolis to join women from across the country at the
triennial Church wide Gathering of Presbyterian Women. Now it is our turn to experience vicariously the worship, education,
community-building, and FUN that occurred there! Pat Tuttle and Donna Yordy will be sharing their travel tales with us at the
FHPW Fall Gathering on Monday, October 26, 2015.
All ladies in our congregation (and their guests) are invited to join us at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Center to learn more about
Presbyterian Women and to welcome back our winter residents, meet new friends and enjoy a fun evening!
Bring a salad to share drinks and dessert will be provided.

Presbyterian Women in the Presbytery of Grand Canyon

Mission Matters Because Gods People Matter is the theme of the PWP Fall Gathering to be held at First Presbyterian
Church, 161 N Mesa Drive, Mesa, AZ on Saturday, October 24, 2015. Registration is $10 per person and includes continental
breakfast beginning at 8:30 a.m. and lunch.
The Rev. Martha Sadongei, pastor at Central Presbyterian Church, will be the Keynote Speaker. Joan Fenton, Member at
Large/Justice and Peace, will give us her latest information on prison housing and immigration.
The 2015-2016 Bible Study Come to the Waters will be introduced. Other workshops will be announced at the Gathering.
If youve never attended a Presbytery-level PW Gathering, this may be a good time to discover what
youve been missing! The location is convenient and you will remember Rev. Martha Sadongei from
our 2013 Gifts of Women Sunday and also our 2014 Winter Gathering.
If you would be willing to take a passenger(s) in your car, or would like a ride, please be prepared to
leave the church parking lot at 8 a.m. for the drive to Mesa.
Registration deadline is October 19, 2015. Please make your checks payable to: PW Presbytery
Grand Canyon and mail to Natalie Herrick, 15566 W Las Verdes Way, Surprise, AZ 85374-5475.
Ilene Berg
Thoughts As We Age:
Chocolate comes from cocoa which is a tree ... that makes it a plant which means ... chocolate is Salad !!!

HOOKED ON BOOKS
Hooked on Books will meet at 9:30 AM on
Wednesday, September 16th in the home
of Elsie Hoffarber. Each attendee will give
a short review of a book they read over the
summer. Books you no longer want may be brought
for the Book Exchange. There is no set membership
for Hooked On Books. Anyone who enjoys reading
and discussing literature is welcome to attend.
For further information contact Jan Hoff (480) 8367551.

Out n About
Out to Lunch
Out'n About will be meeting at noon on Wednesday, September 16th at
the Grille at Eagle
Mountain 14915 E.
Eagle Mountain Parkway (just down the hill from
Frys). Please call Nancy Wulfmeier for reservations....
837-3021.

In Touch

page 8

How can you help?

Lockboxes for Seniors

Fry's Community Rewards Program

The more our church family shops at Fry's, the more monetary support our church will have. Won't you consider registering to allow Fry's to donate a portion of your grocery
expenditures to our church programs?

1.
2.
3.
4.

5.
6.

7.
8.

How to Re-Enroll for the

Frys Community Rewards Program
* Go to www.FrysCommunityRewards.com
* Click on Sign-In.
Enter your email and password, click on sign in.
Click on your name (top right hand corner),
under Account Summary scroll down to
Community Rewards.
Click on Edit under Community Rewards.
Under Find Your Organization: Enter the NPO
number or name of organization then select
search. (You can get the NPO number from
your organization.) It is #84123
Under Select Your Organization, click on the
circle next to your organization.
Click on Enroll

** FREE **
JUST CALL
THE CHURCH
OFFICE
837-1763

o If you have re-enrolled correctly, you should see a

green box with Your enrollment in the Community
Rewards Program has been updated. Thank you for
participating! You will also see the information listed
under Community Rewards on your Account Summary page.

Not Yet A Member?

*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.
For additional information, please contact Aleyne Larsen-Craig at 602-625-6201, Sally Atchinson at 480-837-1054 or call the
church office at 480-837-1763.

Check us out...

Next Inquiry
Membership Class
Tuesday, Sept. 22
4:00PM
in the Narthex
Sally Atchinson

& Aleyne Larsen-Craig

page 9

September 2015

Honored and Humbled

What an Honor to have a Library named for you - especially since I thought this honor was
reserved only for dead Presidents!!!!
Back in the early 80's, Mary Gillespie and Barbara Wyman felt we could create a
choir. (We were in the one room building on Enterprise) Mary would conduct and Barbara
would accompany. We had no music - and of course, no money.
Barbara managed to get some music from her former church in Calif and Jim and Peg Tibbets managed to get some music from their church in Michigan. Roy Shroyer had connections with Lorenz Publications, and managed to get us some "Choir Collections and other
publications. We were on our way. Can't remember how many singers we had (not many)
- I know I sang Tenor!
What music we had was in boxes and not really organized. The first piece of choir music
that the church purchased was "Let Talents and Tongues Employ" which was a Communion
Anthem.
Both Mary and Barbara left while we were in the old building, and I took on the job. I enlisted Carol Winter to help me get the
music ready for rehearsals and for filing. Behold! Our Music Library was established!! We had rehearsals at 3:00 pm so that people could get home for 'Happy Hour' and what ever else was going on in the evening - which wasn't a whole lot!! As Director of
Music Ministries, I then began organizing what little music we had and also attended "Reading Sessions" dealing with new Choral
Music. Our Choir was growing and it was exciting to move into the new building and have a real 'Choir Loft'
During Barbara's absence, and my tenure as Director, we had several 'fill in' Directors. After Barbara's return to Fountain Hills,
she became the full time Director and Ann Stavely became her Librarian.
As "THEY" say, the rest is history. Our Choir has grown, and diminished and is now growing again - and under Debbie Fisher's
direction, getting better all the time.
Consequently, our Library has gone through several Librarians, with different systems of organization - and disorganization. It has, indeed, been a
labor of love that I have been able to reorganize ,recreate and set up the
current system we have. I would be remiss, if I did not acknowledge the
help of my good friend, Suzanne Gillham. She is in Phoenix, and for the
past year has come out one day a week to help me work with the inventory. It has been a chore!! - but what a rewarding experience!!!
I would love to show you the Library and the System we have set up and
explain things to you. It's really quite an involved process, but the good
thing is that we can 'usually' find what we are looking for!!!!!!!!
Please feel free to talk with me anytime. Thank you, again for the honor,
Dorothy Parris

Grandparents are great!

What a bargain grandchildren are, said a comedy writer Gene Perret. I give them my loose change, and they give me a million dollars worth of pleasure. When it comes to family heritage, grandparents are worth their weight in gold. They serve as
storehouses of history and wisdom, helping children see how they fit into a familys legacy. Christian grandparents also provide
a faith heritage that passes from generation to generation.
The apostle Paul acknowledged this important role of family elders when he wrote to young Timothy: I am reminded of your
sincere faith, a faith that lived first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, lives in you.
2 Timothy 1:5, NRSV
-The Newsletter Newsletter
by Communication Resources, Inc

In
InTouch
Touch

page
page 10
8

Interns at FHPC

Debby DeBernardi, Evan and Logan Cain along with a few other
college students made time, rolled up their sleeves and helped Kristi
Robinson paint her science classroom before school started at the FH
high school. Logan really liked the dark navy color. Evan agreed
with Kristi that a dark grey and a bright green highlight would be
welcoming to students.

This summer, Reframes mission was oriented around

assisting young adults in the comprehension of this generations most fundamental questions about God, religion, and the Christian life. Through an exploration in
scholarship and the history of the Bible, ReFrame
brought graduates and college students together in an effort to discover more about who God is, how he has
worked in history, and how we can be used for the Kingdom today.
This ministry was called ReFrame because we wanted to
be able to reevaluate our understanding of God, world,
and ourselves, using relevant scholarship and Biblical research. We explored topics such as Gods
hand in the Israelites liberation from Egypt, Mediterranean culture and the life of Jesus, and the
unique signatures of the four Gospels. As we explored these topics, we also grew closer to one another, and formed relationships and commitments that will be maintained as the new school year begins and beyond.
We cannot wait to see how this ministry will continue to develop, and we thank you for being such a
supportive and nurturing Church family. None of this would have been possible without you.

page 11

September 2015

Interns at FHPC
Brothers and Sisters at FHPC,
We would like to express our deepest gratitude
for your hospitality, friendship, and companionship during our summer internship with you. It
has been such a pleasure to regard FHPC as our
church home. Authenticity and kindness are continually displayed in this community, and we have
been so fortunate to learn from each and every
one of you. To the church faculty: we thank you
for your exemplary faith in us and your grace and
love for us throughout this journey. We would
especially like to thank Debby for extending this
opportunity to us, shepherding us, and edifying
us; we could not have done any of this without
her. We wish the Holy Trinitys graces on all of
you as FHPC enters the fall season, and we hope
to see you soon!
Evan and Logan Cain

Inquiry Class
Get Connected - - - Come & Join our Family!
Thinking of joining our church, but have questions or inquiries that you would
like to address?
Meet with Pastor Bill, Sally Atchinson and Aleyne Larsen-Craig for an Inquiry
Meeting on
Tuesday, Sept. 22 at 4:00 p.m. in the Narthex.
If you are planning to attend, please call:
Aleyne Larsen-Craig
602-625-6201
Sally Atchinson
480-710-6956
Or the Church Office
480-837-1763
No obligation to join - - - just friendly, informational
conversation about Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church.

In Touch

page 12

Christian Formation
Christian Formation Opportunities:
Sundays
10:15 AM Sabbath Day Bible Study
10:15 AM Elementary Life with God
11:15 AM Blessed Beginnings Nursery
11:15 AM Preschool Life with God

Wednesdays
The Way on Wednesdays
(Sept-May)
12:00 PM Lunch & Study
5:00 PM Elementary Big God Story
Committed Youth Rehearsal
3:45 PM on Wednesdays

Womens Bible Study Circles

(Sept thru May)
9:00 AM 2nd Thursday
1:00 PM 1st Tuesday
7:00 PM 3rd Monday

Sabbath Day Bible Study

Mens Bible Study on

Thursdays
7:00 AM in the Adult Center

Spiritual Life Group

6:00 PM 1st & 3rd Monday
Began new excursion into
the Architecture of the Soul
on June 1.

W.O.W. The Way on Wednesdays

at 12:00 p.m.
Starting August 26 we will experiment with having the Way on Wednesdays at noon, instead of
at night. Lunch PREPARED BY Chef Arlene will be served at 12 noon in the Fellowship Center and the study will start at 12:30 p.m., led by Pastor Bill and Pastor Ken.
We will focus our study on Pastor Stan Jones book, The Treasure is in the People. Copies of
his book are available in the church office for purchase for $10. Here the chapters we plan to
discuss during the six weeks we meet together:
Chapter 1

Koinonia: A Brief History

Chapter 3

A Fellowship that Redeems

Chapter 5

Needed: Human Divines

Chapter 8

Reconciliation: Toughest Work

Chapter 13

Teaching that Mines the Treasure

Chapter 18

Dare we Mix Politics/Religion

Over these six weeks we want to see whether there are people who would rather take advantage
of a noon meal rather than a dinner venue. This is only a trial for this six week study.

Devouring the Word

While traveling in Scotland, the great evangelist Charles Spurgeon came across a very
old, worn Bible at a wayside inn. As he examined the book and held it up toward the
light, he noticed a small hole where a worm had eaten from cover to cover.
Lord, make me a bookworm like that, Spurgeon said. From Genesis to Revelation, it
has gone clear through the Bible.
-The Newsletter Newsletter
by Communication Resources, Inc

Beginnings
Several people have asked about the
Sabbath Day Bible Study and when it
is Beginning. It seems logical that
the Beginning of our study adventure
should be somewhere around the
Beginning of the church calendar and
when our friends who took the summer off are Beginning to return. So
where do we begin in our Bible
Study this fall? How about if we start
with the book whose name, Genesis,
means beginnings?
Genesis is the first book of the Bible
and is placed at the opening of the
Hebrew Bible (for Jews). It is the
first book in the Christian Old Testament. Genesis describes such important beginnings as the Creation, the
fall of man, the early years of Israel,
the origins of the cosmos and humankind. Genesis is an important book
for understanding the meaning of the
entire Bible. It unfolds the record of
the beginning of the world, of human
history, of family, and of salvation.
Read Genesis and be encouraged.
There is hope! No matter how dark
the world situation seems, God has a
plan.
Join others with inquiring minds for
Sabbath Day Bible Study beginning on September 13 at 10:15
(between the two worship services).
Coffee and refreshments will be
available. Together we can discuss,
learn, and share our interpretations of
these refreshing beginnings. Please
come and bring a friend.
- John Bivens

page 13

September 2015

From the Director of Christian Formation

You do more than pray after you have
prayed, but you cannot do more than
pray until you have
prayed. John Bunyan
First, thank you all for the prayers for
our family and VBS. We were able to
move to a different location in the Foothills (although still getting things fixed) and my daughter
(due in September with her second child) was able to have
her gallbladder removed and the pre-term labor has been kept
at bay. Thank you all for your prayers! In my prayer time and
scripture meditation from our Spiritual Life Group, I brought
many concerns and fears to God regarding the summer
schedule this year. God kept the message in front of me I
will do it for you . So in faith and trust I watched how He
orchestrated people and events, VBS co-directors, interns,
friends and other ministries together for a beautiful Kingdom
movement this summer! Again, thank you for moving with
the Spirit and serving with others!
Everyone is now back to school. So bring your purse,
backpack or briefcase (why should this be just for kids?)
for: Blessing of the Backpack Special Time the beginning
of worship. Sunday, Sept. 27th at 11:15 am.

KidCommunities for children and preteens

begin this month, September 23rd
In my prayers for this ministry I was reminded my prayers
for my grandkids are much the samethat these kids grow
in spiritual sensitivity, strong character, godly wisdom, and
courageous faith. I know this happens as a result of them
entering into and deepening their friendship with God and
then finding ways to live it. Service is a high value as a
spiritual practice at FHPC but I do not want kids to just do
service projects and get a sense of duty or a circumstantial
high. How might we work with the Lord so that the giving
of our time acknowledges all we are and have, including
time is yours! Its Gods time, not ours! How might we
cultivate the soil of kids and our hearts for the submission and humility this takes? Abide and follow as
Jesus did!
Jesus always asked significant questions. In the Christ following life, I need to not only answer Christs questions but
also ask the same questions of others. In the gospel of Mark
and Luke three times Jesus asks, What do you want me to
do for you? So, for our times of service kids will learn to ask the
questions Jesus did and to follow
What do you
up with love and discernment. So,
want me to
dont be surprised this year to find
do for
a younger person asking youwhat
you?
do you want me to do for you? or
what can I do for you?

Perfect Peace

Lets encourage kids

and adults to trust Gods
promises as we begin a
new school year! Kids
will receive backpack tags, gift, student planner (even the
preschoolers!) and a special blessing.
It is a great time to re-connect with VBS friends and invite
new kids at school to join us!

Peace is Christs distinctive gift-not money,

not worldly ease, not temporal prosperity. These are
at best very questionable possessions. They often do
more harm than good to the soul. They act as clogs
and wrights to our spiritual life.
Inward peace of conscience, arising from a
sense of pardoned sin and reconciliation with God, is
a far greater blessing. This peace is the property of
all believers, whether high or low, rich or poor.
J.C. Ryle
-The Newsletter Newsletter
by Communication Resources, Inc

In Touch

page 14

This and That

The world's highest swimming pool is located

in the skyscraper Marina Bay Sands, Singapore . Views chilling.

MOSES AND THE RED SEA

Nine-year-old Joey was asked by his
mother what he had learned in Sunday School. "Well, Mom, our teacher
told us how God sent Moses behind
enemy lines on a rescue mission to
lead the Israelites out of Egypt .When
he got to the Red Sea , he had his
army build a pontoon bridge and all
the people walked across safely. Then
he radioed headquarters for reinforcements. They sent an Apache helicopter to destroy the bridge with a missile, and all the Israelites were saved."
"Now, Joey, is that really what your
teacher taught you?" his mother
asked.
"Well, no, Mom, but, if I told it the
way the teacher did, you'd never believe it!"
-The Newsletter Newsletter

World's Largest Swimming Pool in San Afonso,

Chile. More than 1,000 yards long.

by Communication Resources, Inc

Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church Foundation

An Investment Today for the Life of Our Church Tomorrow

Bequest Advantages:

Bequest Starting Point:

Your bequest can be unrestricted

permitting FHPC Foundation to use
the funds where they are most
needed.
Your bequest can be restricted for a
specific purpose program or committee.
Your bequest can be for a specific
amount or it can name FHPC Foundation to receive a percentage of
your estate.

Bequest Facts :

Contact your attorney to schedule

time to discuss your plans.
In advance:
1. Compile an inventory of assets.
2. Select key people you want to
involve.
3. Decide what to give family
members.
4. Consider a charitable bequest
to FHPC Foundation.

A bequest has no affect on assets or

cash flow during your lifetimenothing is payable until death.
A bequest is private.
A bequest can be changed you can
change provisions in your will/trust
at any time check with your attorney.

To learn more about the Foundation, contact a member of the Board of Trustees. They will be happy to answer
your questions and assist you in becoming a LEGACY member of the Foundation.
Foundation Board of Trustees
Barbara Oakeson
Matt Jefferson
Roy Nickel
John Skewes

480-837-5563
480-837-6001
480-688-8392
480-292-9021

Susan Phillips
Dawn Lau
Ben Fast

480-837-1225
480-837-2607
480-837-1119

page 15

September 2015

Recognizing a Stroke
STROKE: Remember the 1st Three Letters..... S. T. R. STROKE IDENTIFICATION:
During a BBQ, a woman stumbled and took a little fall - she assured everyone that she was fine (they offered to call paramedics) ...she said she had just tripped over a brick because of her new shoes. They got her cleaned up and got her a new plate of
food. While she appeared a bit shaken up, Jane went about enjoying herself the rest of the evening.
Jane's husband called later telling everyone that his wife had been taken to the hospital - (at 6:00 PM Jane passed away.) She had
suffered a stroke at the BBQ. Had they known how to identify the signs of a stroke, perhaps Jane would be with us today. Some
don't die. They end up in a helpless, hopeless condition instead.

It only takes a minute to read this.

A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3 hours he can totally reverse the effects of a
stroke...totally. He said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting the patient medically
cared for within 3 hours, which is tough.
RECOGNIZING A STROKE
Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The
stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.
Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:
S *Ask the individual to SMILE.
T *Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) (i.e. Chicken Soup)
R *Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.
If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call emergency number immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.
New Sign of a Stroke -------Stick out Your Tongue!
NOTE: Another 'sign' of a stroke is this: Ask the person to 'stick' out his tongue. If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to
one side or the other that is also an indication of a stroke.

Blessings or Burdens?

Do you like to garden?

Interruptions can be viewed as sources of irritation or
opportunities for service,
as moments lost or experience gained,
as time wasted or horizons widened.
They can annoy us or enrich us,
get under our skin or give us a shot in the arm,
monopolize our minutes or spice our schedules
depending on our attitude toward them.
-William Arthur Ward
-The Newsletter Newsletter
by Communication Resources, Inc

We are looking for a gardener for two small areas at

our church. Plants will be provided.
We need your talent and creativity!
See or call Bob Lull (480-686-1481)or
Aleyne Larsen-Craig (602-625-6201)
for more details, please.

In Touch

page 16

Library Footnotes
The Boys in the Boat
1st published in 2014
The real life story of eight varsity crew and their
various coxswain, with their coaches and mentors,
is most descriptive of their struggles on Lake
Washington in Seattle. The trials of these eight
University of Washington students were not only
physical but economical during the years of the
Great Depression.
Brown is a skilled author giving you intimate
glimpses of the experiences of these hard economic times, as the several shell-crews persevered. He takes you through the historical Hooverville area in Seattle. A grim community of
tin, even cardboard shacks where humanity was
struggling to survive.
The University shell house was at the west
side of the Montlake cut that connected Lake
Union and Lake Washington within walking
distance of my childhood home. My sister and I
used to go down to watch the crews bring their
long, sleek, narrow boats and 12-18 oars out
and quietly glide the shells into Lake Washington. Brown informs the readers of the energy
and extreme pain each member had to endure in
their competitions. More energy than one football player in a football game. Few of those beginning

the training could outlast the physical trials but these

famous eight rowers went on to complete a college education with above average grades and to win the most
coveted Gold medal at the 1936 Olympic Games in Germany.
The eight oarsmen were affected greatly by
the Depression. Most of them had to work
nights to afford to continue their education
while training to row.
The authors description of pre-World War II
days in Germany, under Hitler, are well
written. That country hid their cruel persecutions which were not made public to the
world until the war ended.
Throughout this story you feel the quiet
influence of the prime mentor, George
Pocock, showcasing Browns diligent
research. The author represents the
experiences as if he had been right there.
The Associated Press described this story as
an inspiring saga readers need neither background nor interest in competitive rowing, to
be captivated by this beautifully crafted history. I enthusiastically agree.
- Joan Larson

Fear and Faith, Together

I have a lot of faith and a lot of fear a lot of the time, writes Anne Lamott in Small Victories: Spotting
Improbable Moments of Grace (Riverhead Books). As usual, the author tells it like it is.
In Mark 9:14-27, Jesus does that too, spewing frustration about his disciples inability to heal a boy riddled
with convulsions: You faithless people!...How long must I put up with you Jesus pulls no punches.
When Jesus tells the boys father, All things can be done for the one who believes, the man is also surprisingly frank. Had I been desperate for my childs healing, I probably wouldve fallen all over myself professing more
belief than I actually had. But this father replies, Lord, I believe; help my unbelief. And Jesus heals the boy.
God doesnt expect us to have 100-percent-certain belief all the time. I suspect he finds our honest mix of
fear and faith refreshing. And it might reassure other Christians who are struggling, as well.
- Heidi Mann
-The Newsletter Newsletter
by Communication Resources, Inc

page 17

September, 2015

Music Ministry
Summer is almost officially
over, on the calendar, at
least. The temperature at this
time still keeps our summer
mode in full gear, though we
have already been a full month
with students in schools, and
certain rehearsals in full
swing. The choir room has
now been officially named the
"Parris Music Library" after our
own Dorothy Parris who has not
only played every music
Debbie Fisher, Director of Music
piece in the library, but, been
integral in re-filing and counting each piece to bring the
library into a fully organized and efficient system. We
have moved all the bell tables, bell cases and padding, bell
music, Concert Series poles and curtain into the Parris
Music Library, (PML), and arranged what was the Sacristy/Music Worship store room into my Music Office. Ron Waldo, Bonnie Hollabaugh and I spent some
time together, shifting, lifting, hanging, plugging, dusting,
vacuuming then finally sitting together in the office after
the mission was accomplished. We only threw away a
few empty boxes, organizing everything so that we can
work a bit more efficiently this year, and for years to
come. Nothing like friendship to help you along!
Now we need to get started with rehearsals. The season
where folks will start coming back to our fine town, and
lovely church campus is fast approaching. We start the
momentum going so that our groups will be a part of the
worship experience prepared and solid. Though our
numbers are smaller in the beginning, we have some
beautiful voices that bring forth music that is truly glorious. Most of them have been singing solo, duets, trios and
quartets through the summer, with much appreciation to

all of them, and now we prepare to unite our sound to begin in

worship on September 27.
Rehearsal times are as follows;
Celebration Singers----6:30 to 7:30 on Thursday Evenings
in Sanctuary starting Sept. 17
Celebration Ringers----5:15 to 6:30 on Monday Evenings
in Sanctuary starting Sept. 21
Pearwood Recorders--4:00 to 5:00 on Thursday Afternoons
in the PML Sept. 24
Committed Youth Music--3:45 to 5:00 on Wednesday After
noons in Fellowship Center--Continuing
Hilltop Band/ Vocals--4:00 to 5:30 on Tuesday Afternoons
in Music Office--Continuing
Anyone interested in being a part of our Music Ministry,
please contact me at fhpc.dfisher@gmail.com or give me a
call at 480-688-0828.
We are a very inclusive organization, welcoming anyone who
would love to spend time rehearsing music that offers glory to
God. We have a good time in rehearsals producing music
with the right blend, and often tackle some pretty amazing
pieces that help to enhance our worship experience. We often
gather to fellowship outside of the practicing arena, finding
our acquaintances developing into true friendships. God calls
all sorts into His house, and there is always an interesting
story to hear!
"I wash my hands in innocence, and go around Your altar, O
Lord, singing aloud a song of thanksgiving, and telling all
Your wondrous deeds.
Psalm 26:6-7
Deborah Fisher
Director of Music Ministries

SAY A PRAYER
Little Johnny and his family were having Sunday dinner at his Grandmother's house. Everyone was seated around
the table as the food was being served. When Little Johnny received his plate, he started eating right away. "
Johnny! Please wait until we say our prayer." said his mother. "I don't need to," the boy replied.
"Of course, you do." his mother insisted. "We always say a prayer before eating at our house."
"That's at our house." Johnny explained. "But this is Grandma's house and she knows how to cook!"
-The Newsletter Newsletter
by Communication Resources, Inc

In Touch

page 18

Member Spotlight . Did you know?

Bob & Linda Lull
Bob and Linda were both born
and raised in Chicago. Bob
served in the army during the
Viet Nam era, and was stationed at Ft Knox, KY. He
became friends with a fellow
Chicagoan, Louis, who had
been wounded in Viet Nam and
sent to recuperate in Ft Knox.
Through this friendship, he met
Linda. It wasnt that easy. Louis being Lindas oldest brother
was very protective, as were her other two older brothers.
Lindas dates had to pass muster with all three brothers, even
before her parents approval. Fortunately, Bob made it
through with the familys blessing. They dated three years,
and have been married 45 years this past June.
Bob is the youngest of two sisters and one brother. One sister
has lived in Phoenix for over 60 years, his brother lives in
Illinois and he lost a sister a number of years ago. Linda is
also the youngest with three older brothers.
Bob worked for Jays Potato Chips driving a semi when he left
the army. Later he bought and owned his own truck, driving
in the Chicago area. He sold his truck in 2004 to move to
Fountain Hills to build their dream house. Linda worked for
R. R. Donnelley in Chicago, managing their company insurance program on a worldwide basis. While married, and
working full time, Linda earned her degree in Business Administration from Indiana University, majoring in Accounting.
Watching a TV program on adoption of babies from China,
Bob noticed that the agency handling these adoptions was in
the town next door. He called them to find out more. Linda
and Bob sat through a presentation on China adoptions, met
with the Administrator who suggested adopting from Russia.
They went through the process and paperwork, and brought
Andrey home when he had just turned one. When they
arrived at Chicago OHare airport, their family, friends, and

entire church family was waiting at the gate for them to disembark (that was before airport security). What a surprise.
Their friends drove them home and as they exited the expressway, signs were placed along the road on the way
home welcoming baby Andrey. The house was teepeed,
and a great big stork was sitting in front, with a welcome
sign. Neighbors were out to welcome Andrey home. Their
church put on its first Pig Roast/Shower in honor of Andrey.
They continued the Pig Roast for many years after.
They first came to Fountain Hills when they helped friends
move here. Although they had been coming to Arizona for
a number of years to see Bobs family in Phoenix, they had
never been to Fountain Hills. They fell in love with Fountain Hills and decided this is where they wanted to retire.
So in 1998 Bob and Linda decided to get a head start on
property, either purchase a house in Fountain Hills or purchase land to build. Purchasing land made more sense since
they still had over ten years before taking an early retirement. In 2004, Bob sold his trucking business, took an
apartment in Fountain Hills and started the process of building their dream home. In January 2005, Andrey moved to
Fountain Hills and was registered for school. Linda being a
lot younger than Bob had to stay back in Chicago to continue working. Someone had to pay the bills!
Today they are semi-retired. Bobs favorite job is doing
what he does best, handyman work, and working around the
church. He spends more time working at the church than he
does at home, according to Linda. Linda keeps busy with
bookkeeping for various employers, and quilting in her
spare time. Andrey is attending Scottsdale Community College to get his core classes out of the way. He is still
involved with the valley theatres, and will be on stage at
Fountain Hills Theatre in South Pacific in September.
They joined Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church in November 2006. Having been Presbyterian most of their lives, it
wasnt a hard decision, except for leaving their church family back in Illinois. They have made many friends at FH
Presbyterian Church since becoming members. They love it
here, and Bob especially likes the new coffee maker.

A Matter of First Resort

When King Jehoshaphat of Judah got word that neighboring peoples were on their way to attack his nation,
2 Chronicles 20:3 (NRSV) tells us he was afraid (and) set himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout
all Judah.
The message paraphrase of the Bible is even more direct: Shaken, Jehoshaphat prayed. He went to God for help
and ordered a nationwide fast. We get the sense that the King prays immediately after hearing the bad news.
Often we pray as a last resort, not first one. This ancient monarch reminds us to consult God before doing anything
else, in time of trouble as well as celebration. God preserved Jehoshaphat and will surely provide and care for us.
-The Newsletter Newsletter
by Communication Resources, Inc

page 19

September, 2015
Hospitalized? Call the church!
If you are sick, hospitalized or home recovering from illness, we want you to call the church and let us know! In a congregation like ours where people leave in droves for extended
summer months, it is easy for the staff, elders and deacons to
assume, when we dont see someone, that they are simply
vacationing away. The truth is that some of you are sick and
we are not aware of it.
You can help us by simply letting one of the staff know of your
situation. We have an excellent support system in place due to
the diligent efforts of our deacons. Help us serve you by communicating your situation.

With deepest sympathy we list

those members who have passed
away in 2015.
Billy Neal
Sylvester Taylor
Marjorie Koepke
Dallas Shuck
Jack Schuler
Paul Barker
Mildred Aimone
Lorie Bayne
jx wx? g{ zw tw yt|{y xtA

Xx { | {x } by { _wA
Matthew 25:21

Toss Your Turtle Shell Aside

A unique class being offered, designed to further develop your
interpersonal skills. Taught by Jack Combs, Fountain Hills resident, corporate president, trainer, and life coach.
Combs designed the three session class for all ages 18-108.
Learn how to meet and talk to people from anywhere anytime
make friends quickly, overcome shyness, develop a fun personality, draw people to you like a magnet, meet that special person,
tell a good joke. Hilarious Best thing I did You wont
forget this class
3 consecutive Wednesday evenings 7:15 PM 9:15 PM begins
October 7th reserved seating only: $49.00. Make checks payable
to: Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church. Questions? Call Marta
Ludwig 480- 837-1763
Class starts on time!

Toss your Turtle Shell Aside

A special seminar is coming to FHPC.
Led by Jack Combs, Trainer/Life Coach
Starting Oct 7 at 7:15 PM for three consecutive Wednesdays
in the Adult Center. Develop your interpersonal skills.

HAPPY SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS!

09/02
09/03
09/04
09/04
09/07

Linda Maples
Marilyn Humes
Greg Fisher
Willliam Quigley
Toni Patterson

09/12
09/13
09/16
09/16
09/16

Bonnie Matty
Johanna Hissler
Jerry Maples
Sean Nangle
Don Stark

09/19
09/20
09/24
09/24
09/29

Ann Stavley
Vivian Virden
Sylvia Burke
George Mortimer
Michelle Hasley

Non Profit Organ.

U.S. POSTAGE PAID
Permit NO. 299
Scottsdale, AZ

Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church

13001 N. Fountain Hills Boulevard
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

Current Resident or

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 Photographers: Gary
Oakeson & Michele Hasley; Production and Circulation: Mary Wernecke, Bobbie Dangremond, Ruby
Pearson, Marilyn Humes, Mary Martinson and Vivian Virden. Travel to Bulk Mail Post Office: Mary
Martinson.

Stop and smell the roses...

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