FOUNTAIN HILLS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

IN TOUCH

Fountain Hills, AZ Novembe r 2015

From Director Christian Formation Debby DeBernardi

FHPC VISION & MISSION STATEMENTS

Our Vision: Our Mission : Living God’s love. calls us to . . . Reach out to all with faith and love.

Let the redeemed of the Lord

tell their story”… In prayerful listening to others, the Spirit of God can shine so brightly in their stories that they seem sometimes to be blinded to God’s actions or maybe just not notice or give voice to the divine. One person had just shared some glorious stories

then continued how encouraging it was to teach students about being thankful. Voic-ing a deep longing to have his own soul full of thankfulness, he was finding it difficult. I took the opportunity to ask him to close his eyes; to return to the personal stories first shared, but this time with our Lord beside him. He was encour-aged to notice his feelings at the time and to stay with those emotions. In silence he bowed his head into his hands for awhile. A few tears fell onto his trousers and then he raised his head, eyes opened wide and he exclaimed, “Oh, God. I am so grateful!” There it is! A heart of gratitude! His soul flooded with thanksgiving. Being attentive to God in our own stories and our faith community stories takes time for reflection, recollection, reexami-nation and even retreat. For when our lives and faith stories are reflected upon, we notice how our story tells God’s story of love, redemption, forgiveness, and grace! We tell our story and then the story tells us about us …and about God! We get a glimpse of God’s amazing love, presence and actions. How can we then not be grateful? How can we not tell our stories because they show and tell God’s story of love, redemption and His characteristics. Anyone feel like singing Big Daddy Weave’s song My Story? Seeing the elementary KidCommunity and their adult FaithFriends grasp the awe-inspiring realization that God contin-ues to write our stories as a part of His big story, is life-changing. This awareness brings excitement and responsibility to share our stories with others. For when we share our stories after reflection,

we have the opportunity to share God’s story. Psalm 96:3 says to “Publish His glorious deeds among the nations. To tell everyone about the amazing things He does.” Maybe the most vital piece of Thanksgiving is telling stories of God’s goodness and great-ness in your life! Yes! Thanksgiving remembers God’s action, but even more gives witness to God’s character! Many of you spend time in silence and service as you

attend to God. Our spiritual growth, vitality and discern-ment depends on our ever increasing openness and

attentiveness to God in life. One practice that helps all ages from the youngest to the

oldest is the daily examen, a Spirit-led reflection. You review the day with gratefulness! Go to the website www.fhpresbyterian.info under Christian Formation / Spiritual and Faith Formation for an explanation of

the why and how of the practice in word and on video. Laura Harbert from

Fuller Theological Seminary has done an eloquent short video on the daily examen.

Journaling is another way of slowing down to recollect your ex-perience of God, your feelings and emotional responses. God’s grace is always present and active even in the difficult, confusing times. Reflect with the Holy Spirit on questions such as: • How have you seen God moving in your life and service? • What personal obstacle, difficulty or blessing have you encountered this year where you sensed God go through the experience with you? What does this say about God? • What is God dreaming in your heart regarding your life, family and FHPC for 2016? • Remember: God has a story to tell through your life and a main role to play in it!

My Story - God’s Story - Our Story

Psalm 107:1-2A says to “Give thanks to the Lord,

for He is good: His love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story”…

“ Hearing what God has done in the life of another person encourages the rest of

us and affirms the reality of faith.” The Sailboat Church

by Joan S. Gray

A church culture of story telling brings fresh wind of God’s presence and

movements!

In Touch page 2

On the Inside: Debby DeBernardi, Dir. Christian Formation … .. .. .. . . Focus on Finance .. .. .. ..… … … … .. . … .. . .. … . .. . . “Blue Moon” Eclipse .. .. .. .. .. . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . Mission Ministry . . … . . . .. .. .. .. . . . .. . . . . … .. . . . . .. Presbyterian Women .. .. .. …. .. . . . . .. . … .. . . .. . . .. .. How Can You Help? … .. . . .. .. .. .. . . .. .. . .. . . . . . . . . . Lockboxes for Seniors. .. .. .. … … … .. .. .. .. .. .. . . .. . .. Not Yet a Member? .. .. .. . . . … . … . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . New Member .. … … … . … … .. . .. .. . . … . . .. . . . .. . Invitation to Thanksgiving Dinner.. . . . . . . .. .. . . … .. .. Celebrations .. .. .. .. . . .. … .. .. .. .. .. .. . . .. . . .. .. . . . .. A Quiet Place.. .. .. . . .. .. .. . .. .. . . .. . . . .. . . . . .. .. . . .. Live Nativity .. .. .. . . . .. . .. . . . . … .. . . . .. . . . .. .. . ... Church Appreciation Sunday.. .. .. .. . .. . . .. .. .. . . . . … Christian Formation .. . .. . .. .. .. .. …. .. . . . . .. . .. . . . .. . Art Bazaar.. .. .. .. .. . .. . . .. . . .. . . . . . . .. …. .. . . .. . .. . Help Wanted.. .. .. .. .. . .. .. .. . . . . . …. … .. .. .. . . . .. … From the Director of Christian Formation .. . . . . . . . . . .. This and That .. .. . .. . .. . .. . … .. … .. . .. .. . .. . . .. … . FHPC Foundation.. .. … .. .. . … .. .. . .. .. .. .. . . . . . . . . . FHPC Sunday Fellowship .. . .. .. . .. .. . … .. … . .. . . …. Library Footnotes.. … .. …. .…. …. …. …. …. …. …... Music Ministry .. … … .. .. .. .. …. . . . . .. . . .. . . . . .. . .. Member Spotlight...Did you Know? .. .. .. .. .. .. . . . … ... Necrology for 2015… .. … .. . . .. … .. … . .. . . .. . . …… November Birthdays .. .. .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. Celebration Singers .. .. . . … . . .. . . . . . . . .. … .. . . . . ..

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OUR CHURCH STAFF

Rev. Bill Good Pastor/Head of Staff

Rev. Stan Jones Parish Associate

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

******

Focus on Finance

September income fell short of anticipated budget by $4,844. We have continued to keep the expenses below budget so far. It ap-pears that we are in a positive position com-paring Actual Income YTD to Actual Ex-penses YTD, but we still have three months remaining and concerns regarding additional potential shortfalls.

Respectfully, Linda Lull, Treasurer

Sept Income $ 26,831 Budget $ 31,675

Sept Expense $ 32,874 Budget $ 34,486

Yr to date Income $ 328,087 Budget $ 320,875

Yr to date Expense $ 306,446 Budget $ 318,546

page 3 November 2015

Super “Blood Moon” Eclipse

September 27, 2015 was the Korean Harvest Moon Festival and Joseph and Helen Doh wore their Korean outfits to church. Joseph is holding a small plate of rice cakes, a traditional dish for this holiday, they brought quite a few to the Fellowship time to share with the congre-gation. If you were looking to the east that night you would have seen the Super Blood Moon Eclipse. See more information on page 10

The super blood moon eclipse is a gorgeous view. Since 1910, a supermoon lunar eclipse has only happened five times, NASA reported. The last time was in 1982 and you won’t have another chance to see one until 2033. What makes this event special is that it’s occurring while the moon is at its closest point to the Earth, a stage in its orbit called perigee. This is

31,000 miles closer to the Earth than at the far-thest point in the moon’s orbit, called an apogee. While this is happening, there will also be a lunar eclipse where the Earth comes between the sun and the moon, causing the Earth’s shadow to cover the moon. This will give the moon a beautiful dark reddish, coppery color. This spe-cial eclipse has also been the source of many ru-mors and doomsday prophecies, but astrono-mers and stargazers alike are excited about seeing a beautiful coppery moon.

page 5 November 2012

"Love one another warmly as brothers and sisters in Christ" Romans 12:10 As I read this Bible verse I think of all those brothers and sisters in need. What can I do to help these family members? There is so much we can do, we can feed them, clothe them, help them with educa-tion, learn more about their way of life. We here in the Mission Ministry we are doing this. Here are some of the things we are doing.

2015 International Peacemaker If you missed out on this wonderful and unique ex-perience, let me fill you in on some of it. Pastor Edelberto Valdes Fleites was brought to the United States to specifically tour and relate his story to churches here in Arizona. He re-lated things that his church is involved with, such as some of the young peoples programs. He told us of the low crime rates and how the state provides schools for the children's education.

He even had some music he shared with us as we ate. If any-one is interested in some of the things he told us, John Bivens has copies of his presentation, that he will share with you. I want to take this time to Thank John and Mary Alice for host-ing Pastor Fleites at their home and making it possible for him to speak at our church. Thank you also goes out to the PW Women who baked cookies for this gathering. Thank you also to Sandy Larson, Linda Warren, and Jo Nelson for your help setting up and cleaning up.

Books for Bethel Alaska We are still collecting books for children in the rural area of Bethel, Alaska. These children have very few books

In Touch page 4

Mission Ministry

Terri Schmidt, Elder

and are in need of books for all ages. The young lady asking for the books, spends time on Saturdays reading to the children and doing puppet shows along with the readings. When they are done reading them, they go into their library for public use. We are asking for any books, new or used for any ages. They can be Church story books or regular story books. You can bring them into the office or contact Terri Schmidt.

Extended Hands Food Bank After talking to the people at the Extended Hands Food Bank, I found out that they are in great need of personal items. They are in need of deodorants, sham-poos, cream rinse, soap, tooth paste, tooth brushes, hair brushes and combs, razors, shaving cream. They are also in desperate need of canned fruit, and canned meats, pea-nut butter and jellies. Thank you to all of you who so graciously give to this local mission project, every Sun-day. Thank you to Nancy Wulfmeier, Linda Warren, Susan Lickman, and Susan Owens for helping with the Friday Night Fish Fry on October 2nd. We will be help-ing out again on November 6th. The Fish Fry is available on the first and third Fridays of the month, and if their is a fifth Friday. The cost is $9.99 for all you can eat. It is a great bargain as well as great fish.

Water for MANA House We have collected approximately 83 cases of water for the homeless Veterans down at MANA House. This water is so important to these people, it can mean life and death. Water is so important especially here in the desert in the summer time. We will con-tinue to collect water during the winter months also. Thank you to those of you who have donated money for this project. As the money comes in, we send it to MANA House and they purchase the water there for the Veterans.

Week-end Backpacks We are continuing to partner with Church of Ascension for this project. For anyone who would like to help with this project, you can meet at the Church of As-cension parking lot and carpool down to Mesa to pack these backpacks. These backpacks are filled with food

Continued on next page...

In Touch page 4 page 5 November 2015

Mission Ministry

MISSION PROJECT – SUPPORT OUR TROOPS/VETERANS Our “Winter Project” to help our homeless Veter-ans by donating new sweatshirts and/or long-sleeved t-shirts and socks is underway. Please pick up one or more of these items the next time you are in Target, Walgreens or CVS; they all have them. Our homeless veterans will be in great need for these items in the upcoming winter months. Delivery will be made to MANA House in Phoenix probably in late November or early December. I truly hope this project turns out to be as suc-cessful as our Summer Project was when we were able to make a very large delivery of new t-shirts and socks to MANA House. Hopefully we will also be able to make another delivery of magazines, books, toiletries, CD’s, and DVD’s to the Veterans Hospital/Home around the same time. We collect these items, including gently used clothing, continuously throughout the year. Deliveries are made when there are enough items col-lected to do so. There are two boxes for you to place your dona-tions located at Church. One is in the Narthex on the table and/or floor and the other one is in the Fellowship Center located on the left side as you enter or you may also drop off any items at the Church office and they will call me. If you have any ques-tions, please do not hesitate to just ask me. Many thanks to those of you who have already donated some sweatshirts. Can’t thank you enough. Donna Sims, Deacon

for the week-end for these children. Many of these kids don't have enough food for the week-ends and this helps until they can come back for the hot lunch or breakfast programs at the schools. There are many backpacks that come back to Foun-tain Hills for some of the children in need here.

High School Snack Bags Thank you to all who are bringing in the breakfast bars and crackers filled with cheese or peanut butter, juice boxes, non refriger-ated milk, and nuts. These are in great need at the High School. The High School does not qualify for the free lunch program or the free breakfast programs, so these snack bags are very important to some of these students. It is so amazing to me how many of these children come to school hungry.

Thanksgiving Dinner

We will be helping Shepherd of The Hills Lutheran Church again this year with their Thanksgiving dinner. Any-one wishing to help serve or help in the kitchen can contact Terri Schmidt or call the office at Shepherd of the Hills and leave a message for Julia. The number is 480-837-9532. This dinner is for anyone who does not have a place to go or who needs a meal. We welcome anyone who wants to come and eat and spend a Thanksgiving meal with us.

As we get closer to the Holiday Seasons we will have more projects to report on and to ask for your support with. So keep tuned to this newslet-ter to learn more about the upcoming events. The old adage "It takes a village to raise a Child" is not far from the

truth today. There are so many children who need the extra food that we can provide. We here in the Mission Ministry try so hard to help the needy people here in Fountain Hills first. Then we reach outside of town to others. God has blessed so many of us, and we in turn, are expected by God to help those in need. Thank you to all who help make our Mission Ministry so successful.

Frozen Turkey Collection We will be collecting frozen Tur-keys and all the non perishable things for both Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners again this year. We will start

collecting the Turkeys on Sunday November 15th and November 22nd for Thanksgiving. Then we will begin collecting again in December on De-cember 13th and on December 20th. We will gladly take all the non perishable side dishes also, after all what is a turkey without yams and potatoes and stuffing and cranberries. Thank you to all who make the holidays a special treat for those less fortunate. May God continue to bless you all. Mission Elder Terri Schmidt

page 7 December 2011

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, Maria Berry 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

Presbyterian Women

In Touch page 6

NOVEMBER EVENTS

November 6 9:00 a.m. Coordinating Team Meeting, Adult Center, FHPC November 3 & 17 1:00 p.m. Afternoon Circle, Fountain View Village November 12 9:00 a.m. Morning Circle, Adult Center, FHPC November 16 7:00 p.m. Evening Circle, home of Judy Irvin November18 9:30 a.m. Hooked on Books, Sally Atchinson’s home Noon Out ‘N About

NOVEMBER BIBLE STUDY Absence of Water – Thirst and Longing Exodus 17:1-7; Psalm 42:1-2, 63:1; John 19:28

In the upcoming months we will describe one of the three PW Circles in an effort to acquaint women not already attending a Circle with the opportunity offered there. This month our Af-ternoon Circle is featured. AFTERNOON CIRCLE began with a conversation at a FHPC New Members meeting where Marty Baxter and Bon-nie Matty realized they were unable to attend the existing Cir-cle meetings because of time con-flicts. They soon realized there was a need for a third Circle when Elizabeth Bugg asked, “Why don’t you have an Afternoon Circle at Assisted Living?” And that is why the Bible study group meets there twice a month year round. Some call it a circle of believers; oth-ers say it’s a caring group of ladies – and sometimes a man - who like be-ing together to pray and study the Bible, to discuss current situations of

Christians all over the world, and to enjoy the laughter and good feelings of loving people. And don’t be sur-prised to hear singing because it is a vital part of each meeting. Marty Baxter leads the Bible Study on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 1 p.m. in the Activity Room next to the chapel on the 2nd floor. Other volunteers also provide reflections. Prayer is a fundamental part of their mission to support one another as well as phone calls and birthday and get well cards. The Inter-national Fellowship of the Least Coin, an ecumenical movement for peace and reconciliation, is supported. Women from FHPC, Fountain View Village, and the community at large are most welcome to join this group of vibrant, committed Christians to continue their journey with the Bible, meet new friends and enjoy fellowship. Cookies and coffee are provided by Fountain View Village thanks to our friend Ron Waldo. The only request is that they all be eaten!!

Marty Baxter

HOOKED ON BOOKS

The Hooked on Books Reading Club will meet on Wednesday, November 18th at 9:30 AM at the home of Sally Atchinson. Barbara Oakeson will review the book: "My Stroke of Insight" by Jill Taylor. Books you no longer want may be brought for the Book Ex-change. All women interested in reading and discuss-ing books are welcome to attend. For further informa-tion, contact Jan Hoff (480) 836-7551.

page 7 November 2015

Out ’n About—Out to Lunch

Out 'n About lunch group is planning on going to the new Monroe’s at 13014 N. Saguaro Blvd on November 18th at noon. We will order from the menu -- and re-ceive separate checks. Contact Nancy Wulfmeier for reservations. 837-3021

PW HELPS WITH FELLOWSHIP REFRESHMENTS

It is a joy for PW to provide refreshments in the Fellowship Center between worship services during the month of November. Morning and Evening Circles share the responsibility.

2016 READING LIST

Each year, following a thoughtful selection process of both fiction and nonfiction, a PW of the Presbytery Committee compiles a list of recommended reading. The list, and a copy of each book on the list, is available in our church library for your reading enjoyment. Popular selections include The Boys in the Boat, Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Olympics by Daniel James Brown and Spilled Milk by K.L. Randis based on the true story of a young girl’s abuse. If you have read a book you think would qualify to be on this list, share it with Donna Yordy, member of the selection committee, for con-sideration. Women who read five or more books on the list are recognized annually at both the FHPW and the PW of the Presbytery Spring Gatherings.

Ilene Berg

Read each one, think and count your blessings!

Some things to think about before it is too late. Some are sad, some comical, all are based on real-life episodes. 1. Today, I interviewed my grandmother for part of a research paper I'm working on for my Psychology class. When I asked her to define success in her own words, she said, "Success is when you look back at your life and the memories make you smile." 2. Today, I asked my mentor - a very successful business man in his 70s- what his top 3 tips are for success. He smiled and said, "Read something no one else is reading, think something no one else is thinking, and do something no one else is doing." 3. Today, after a 72 hour shift at the fire station, a woman ran up to me at the grocery store and gave me a hug. When I tensed up, she realized I didn't recognize her. She let go with tears of joy in her eyes and the most sincere smile and said, "On 9-11- 2001, you carried me out of the World Trade Center." 4. Today, after I watched my dog get run over by a car, I sat on the side of the road holding him and crying. And just before he died, he licked the tears off my face. 5. Today at 7AM, I woke up feeling ill, but decided I needed the money, so I went into work. At 3PM I got laid off. On my drive home I got a flat tire. When I went into the trunk for the spare, it was flat too. A man in a BMW pulled over, gave me a ride, we chatted, and then he offered me a job. I start tomorrow. 6. Today, as my father, three brothers, and two sisters stood around my mother's hospital bed, my mother uttered her last coherent words before she died. She simply said, "I feel so loved right now. We should have gotten together like this more often."

Not Yet A Member? *If you are attending our church and don’t have membership in another church, you can join our church by profession

of faith and receiving the Sacrament of Baptism or, if you’ve already been baptized, you can join by 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.

Sally Atchinson & Aleyne Larsen-Craig

-The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

In Touch page 8

Fry's Community Rewards Program The more our church family shops at Fry's, the more mone-tary support our church will have. Won't you consider reg-istering to allow Fry's to donate a portion of your grocery expenditures to our church programs?

How to Re-Enroll for the

Fry’s Community Rewards Program 1. * Go to www.FrysCommunityRewards.com

2. * Click on ‘Sign-In’. 3. Enter your email and password, click on ‘sign in’. 4. Click on your name (top right hand corner),

under ‘Account Summary’ scroll down to

“Community Rewards”. 5. Click on ‘Edit’ under Community Rewards. 6. 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 7. Under ‘Select Your Organization’, click on the

circle next to your organization. 8. Click on ‘Enroll’ 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 Sum-

mary page.

How can you help?

Lockboxes for Seniors

** FREE ** JUST CALL

THE CHURCH OFFICE 837-1763

A saintly party

A priest told the children of his parish they could come trick-or-treating at the rectory, but only if they dressed up as a saint. So a group arrived on the eve of All Saints’ Day: one dressed as St. Anthony, one as St. Joseph, another in a St. Clare cos-tume—and then a child dressed as a dog. “My boy,” exclaimed the priest, “you were supposed to come as a saint!” I did!” replied the child. “I’m St. Bernard.”

page 9 November 2015

Clarence ‘Butch’ Utter Butch moved to Fountain Hills 4 ½ years ago from Middletown, N. Y. He was an engi-neer in a power plant for the state of New York for 33 years. In New York he ran stock cars and loves to fish and hunt and cook. He has two grown sons and lives in the Village at Town Center. He is looking forward to becoming more involved in our church activi-ties such as the Men’s Club. Butch chose this significant date, September 27 for his baptism because it is also his birthday. He says he’s met quite a few members already and one in particular, Suzie McCready. There were also eight neighbors from Vil-lage at Town Center celebrating Butch’s baptism, membership and 68th birthday.

INVITATION

“FAMILY FEAST OF THANKS”

Thanksgiving Dinner

Saturday, November 21, 2015

4:00 p.m. Hor’ doevres and sparkling cider in Fireside Room Art Bazaar (See ad page 12)

5:00 p.m. Dinner in Fellowship Center On Saturday, Nov. 21st at 5:00 p.m. FHPC will be sponsoring a Thanksgiving dinner for the entire congre-gation. You will be able to sign-up to attend the dinner on the first three Sundays in November. The dinner is free but when you sign up for the dinner you will have the opportunity to select which side dish or appe-tizer you wish to contribute to the meal. It will be a wonderful evening that our members can spend together giving thanks for all of the blessings we have received. This dinner will be replacing the Consecration Brunch that usually follows the Sunday, No-vember 22nd morning service. Please put the date on your calendar.

New Member

Celebrations

In Touch page 8 In Touch page 10

John Bivens, Sandy Larson, Rev. Helen Doh, Gary Oakeson, Rev. Joseph Doh and Mary Alice Bivens share the Korean rice cakes in celebration of the Korean Full Moon Day

Did You Know about Our Quiet Place?

page 11 November 2015

Stroll in the Glow

Church Appreciation Sunday

Preparing Hearts and Hands for Advent and Christmas: • Seeking readers & candle lighters for our Advent services November 29 9:00 am 11:15 am December 6 9:00 am 11:15 am December 13 9:00 am 11:15 am December 20 9:00 am 11:15 am • Seeking live nativity characters for (shepherds, angels, 3 wise men, Mary & Joseph) - Saturday, December 5th on the Ave of the Fountains community event 5:00 pm to 7:00pm - Christmas Eve December 24 4:00 pm Family Service Enjoy being a part of the Big God Story in a fun creative way. Do you love to sing? We have a place for you in our live nativity! Contact Debby DeBernardi 602-570-7340 for more information!

On Sunday, October 25 Bob Lull and John Brockelman were honored for the many hours they put in each and every week here at FHPC. The wives, Linda Lull and Jean Brockelman were presented with beautiful bouquets of red roses in gratitude for sacrificing their time with their husbands for them to do church work. Bob and John were presented with golden ham-mers inscribed with “Big Boss” and “Little Boss” Thanks from FHPC to commemorate the gratefulness of the entire congrega-tion. They were also presented with gift cards and season tickets to our Pat Covault Memorial Concert Series. As a special sur-prise Andrey Lull sang the song “Look Over There” that brought tears to many eyes.

Christian Formation In Touch page 12

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 & Bible Study 5:00 PM Elementary “Big God Story” 6:00 PM Bible Study

• Committed Youth Rehearsal 3:45 PM on Wednesdays Women’s Bible Study Circles (Sept thru May) 9:00 AM 2nd Thursday 1:00 PM 1st & 3rd Tuesday 7:00 PM 3rd Monday • Men’s Bible Study on Thursdays 7:00 AM in the Adult Center • Spiritual Life Group 6:00 PM 1st & 3rd Monday

ART BAZAAR

Calling all our church artists to display and

sell your art at

our all church family

Thanksgiving Dinner

Nov. 21st

We’ll set up display tables in our Fireside Room

(formerly Youth Center)

4 p.m sparkling cider and appetizers in the Fireside Room

5 p.m dinner in the Fellowship Center

Some may choose to check out the art after the dinner as well

Contact Sally Atchinson, 480-837-1054

for further information or to reserve a space.

IN THE BEGINNING

GOD Each Sunday morning between our two worship services about two dozen people with inquiring minds gather in the Adult Center at 10:15 for coffee, cookies, fellowship and study of the Scriptures. We seek to learn more in depth about God, his son Jesus, and what the Bible tells us to do as Christians to live out our faith. One of the values we share is the opportunity to listen to each other as we discuss our personal interpreta-tion of the verses we read. Each has a chance to ask questions without being embarrassed. We enjoy differ-ences of opinion which challenges out knowledge of the Bible. We are currently studying Genesis, the first book of the Bible – “In the beginning God…” Most of us have heard several stories found in Gene-sis, but we are going well beyond the Creation and the Flood survived by Noah. Everyone is welcome! You can start at any time. Please join us for an hour from 10:15 to 11:15. You can leave in time for the “Casual Wor-ship Service.” We hope to see you there.

John Bivens

HELP WANTED!

Need volunteers for: • Cooking • Clean up after event • Running computer Call church office 837-1763. No experience nec-essary. We will train. Don’t send resume, we trust you. Many benefits.

From the Director of Christian Formation

page 13 November 2015

The Blessings of the Backpacks brought several children from FHPC and others from VBS.

Deacon Dick Smith from Church of the Ascension joined Debby DeBer-nardi to lead our congregation in a school year liturgy and prayerful bless-

ings. Families received a school year notebook, back pack tag, daily devotional activity, pencil and themed cards for parents to write notes of encouragement to their children throughout the year. Eleven children

were present and nine children stayed for the Elementary Life with God time following. Great fun with

Getting on Board with Jesus in His Disciple Ship!

A great big THANK YOU to the kids from Wednesday Night KidCommunity and Shawn Uphoff for the wonderful signs they painted.

In Touch page 14

Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church Foundation “An Investment Today for the Life of Our Church Tomorrow”

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 480-837-5563 Susan Phillips 480-837-1225 Matt Jefferson 480-837-6001 Dawn Lau 480-837-2607 Roy Nickel 480-688-8392 Ben Fast 480-837-1119 John Skewes 480-292-9021

This and That

Bequest Advantages:

• 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 com-mittee.

• Your bequest can be for a specific amount or it can name FHPC Foun-dation to receive a percentage of your estate.

Bequest Starting Point:

• 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.

Bequest Facts :

• A bequest has no affect on assets or cash flow during your lifetime-nothing 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 attor-ney.

Written by Andy Rooney, a man who had the gift of s aying so much with so few words. Enjoy....... I've learned .... That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a chil d did wonders for me as an adult. I've learned .... That we should be glad God doesn' t give us everything we ask for. I've learned .... That money doesn't buy class. I've learned .... That it's those small daily happe nings that make life so spectacular. I've learned ... That under everyone's hard shell i s someone who wants to be appreciated and loved. I've learned .... That to ignore the facts does not change the facts. I've learned .... That when you plan to get even wi th someone, you are only letting that person contin ue to hurt you. I've learned .... That love, not time, heals all wo unds. I've learned .... That the easiest way for me to g row as a person is to surround myself with people s marter than I am.

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.

page 15 November 2015

Facebook

FHPC Sunday Fellowship

Bob & Linda Lull Althea Halchuck & Mary Morris

Sharie Marx & George Mortimer

Ben & Melissa Fast & Heather Greco

Bob & Elsie Hoffarber

Library Footnotes

-The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

In Touch page 16

The Inspirational Writings of C. S. Lewis is a four book volume including • Surprised By Joy This is a very subjective autobiographical account of his transition from Atheism to Christianity. He be-gins with his boyhood and discusses each phase of his changing heart toward God and toward Joy, his description of what the Christian life should be. In his words “What I like about experience is that it is such an honest thing. You may take any number of wrong turnings but keep your eyes open and you will not be allowed to go very far before the warning signs appear. You may have de-ceived yourself, but experience is not trying to deceive you.” • Reflections on the Psalms He chooses themes and presents them posing the dif-ficulties of Christians living up to the expectations or puzzles of scripture. His themes include Judgement, Cursings, Death, Praise, Nature, and more. C. S. Lewis always gives you ideas to ponder, disagree with or find new insight. • The Four Loves Lewis has comments to make about all types of love beginning with God’s for us...parental love, affec-tion, eros, friendship, etc. but in his typical deep thinking he acknowledges that his pondering might not be of interest to everyone and he writes “Take it

From harm to good

Squanto, the Native American, who helped the Pilgrims, has a background remarkable similar to that of Joseph in Genesis. Years before the pilgrims arrived in America, English traders kidnapped Squanto and other Native Americans and sold them as slaves in Spain. Incredible, Squanto was bought by monks, who set him free and taught him about Jesus. Later Squanto sailed to America. But he had to wait years, so he worked as a stable hand and learned English. Finally able to travel home, he was devastated to find his tribe wiped out by smallpox. A couple of years later, the Pilgrims came ashore, tired, sick and having lost many shipmates on the way. Implausibly, they met an English-speaking Native American, who from his homeland to Egypt and from slave to expert leader, Squanto experienced God’s leading—even when the path was littered with misfortune. Using Squanto, God saved a whole community. What some intended for harm, God turned into good (see Genesis 50:20).

as one man’s reverie, almost one man’s myth. If anything in it is useful to you, use it; if anything is not, never give it a second thought.” I enjoy his questioning and suppositions. From the book “To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love any-thing and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly be broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully around

with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements, lock it up safe in a casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket safe, dark, motionless, airless it will change. It will not be broken; it will become un-breakable, impenetrable irredeemable. The alternative to tragedy, or at least the risk of tragedy, is damnation. The only place out-side Heaven where you can be perfectly

safe from all the dangers and perturbations of love is Hell.” • The Business of Heaven This book is a daily meditation col-lection of his writings. Most of them are simply a paragraph or two. Because all four of these books are published in one volume it is hefty book but worth checking out if you enjoy a challenging read. - Sally Atchinson

page 17 November 2015

I can't help but to reflect lovingly on those who have been a part of our church and it's continued worship of God, His Son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit which moves our souls for-ward. Some folks have been here always,

and some folks come, then go. It's always

interesting to me, though, how a person can feel about those who have been with us in worship here in this place. We have shared something wonderful. There is just something about this place! Speaking for myself, I have never felt an absence of truth, nor the absence of an elevated Spirit when I experience worship here. That must be why I feel, in my heart and mind, fortunate, being able to worship twice on Sunday with two services that, quite frankly are the same, (only oh so different)! They do, respectfully, need to be both the same and, oh so differ-ent! Just like all of us who worship in Christ's name have similarities and differ-ences which are to be respected. After all, we have all been raised by different parents, in different towns and cities at different times, in different times. It's al-right that the services are different! Most of the differ-ences in the services are in the music styles, and, of course, the food. Where in the first service there is no food allowed, the second service makes time to fill your plate again. In the first service the Pastor is

Music Ministry

Debbie Fisher, Director of Music

robed and preaching from the pulpit, and in the sec-ond service of the day, though the sermon is the same, there is an absence of robe, of formality, but, the sermon is ever so reverent. The music of both services have the same meaning, though some-

times different instrumentation and style. The text of the first service may sing "Rejoice, ye pure in heart, re-joice, give thanks and sing" while the second service sings "Bless the Lord, Oh my soul, worship His holy name!” The first service may sing "Oh, Jesus, I have promised to serve Thee to the end" the second service sings, "You call me out upon the waters, the great unknown where feet may fail, and there I find You in the mystery, in oceans deep, my faith will stand." I know that I feel an inner joy in both services, and I find that quite amusing. I always pray that God directs these services, that anyone com-ing in may feel His presence from the music, the message, and all those who by His spirit are here, moving forward together in this place. I also love when I see people who feel comfortable enough

to come to either service knowing that they may share something wonderful, something good.

"Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth! Sing out the honor of His name; Make His praise glorious." Psalm 66:1-2 Deborah Fisher Director of Music Ministries

-The Newsletter Newsletter

Thanksgiving Beatitudes

Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitation, because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you’re tired and weary, because it means you’ve made a difference.

In Sync

Need another reason to join the choir? Consider this: Neuroscientists in Sweden discovered that singers’ heartbeats tend to synchro-nize, which leads to a sense of emotional calm and bond-ing. “Joint action leads to joint perspectives”, write the researchers. “In other words, singers may change their egocentric perspective of the world to a ‘we-perspective,’ which causes them to per-ceive the world from many points of view.”

So start singing—and enjoy the many benefits and bless-ings of being part of a choir.

In Touch page 18

Member Spotlight …. Did you know? Ron and Dorothy Christie have been members of FHPC for 14 years. They moved to Fountain Hills from Devils Lake, ND. Ron was born in Devils Lake, North Dakota and Dorothy was born in Glascow, Montana. Both attended school and graduated from Devils Lake High School. Dorothy has one sister and Ron has four broth-ers. Ron attended and gradu-ated from Jamestown College, a Presbyterian affiliated school in Jamestown, ND. After

graduation, they returned to make their home in Devils Lake, where they owned and operated two super markets. Dorothy worked for several years in Ramsey National Bank and also helped to operate the grocery stores. They had two children, a son Bruce and a daughter, Connie. Bruce passed away in 2006. They have four grandchildren. While living in Devils Lake, both Ron and Dorothy were ac-tive in Westminster Presbyterian Church. They are both or-dained elders, sang in the choir for 30 years, and taught Sun-day school, where Ron was the superintendant for several

years. Ron also served as church treasurer for 12 years and Dorothy was active in the UPW. Community affairs were an important part of Ron and Doro-thy’s lives. Ron was president of the Chamber of Commerce, president of the Rotary Club and served two terms as presi-dent of the ND Retail Grocers Association. Dorothy is a life member of Beta Sigma Phi and served as president of the local chapter and is a life member of the Eastern Star. After retiring from the food business, Ron returned to college and obtained the Certified Financial Planner degree, and con-tinued to serve the people of the area in that capacity for 12 years. Both enjoy golf and bridge, a highlight being Ron’s second hole-in-one the day after his 80th birthday! This past summer they took the family on an Alaskan Cruise to celebrate their 60th Wedding Anniversary, a journey that started many years ago as high school sweethearts. Ron and Dorothy are happy to be members of FHPC, a beau-tiful church where all the member are friendly and welcom-ing.

Ron & Dorothy Christie

Most expensive city to live in: Singapore The new champion of the world, Singapore has recently beat out Tokyo for the title of "most expensive city" for 2014. Cars can cost between 4-6 times in Singapore what they cost in the US or UK (for example, a Toyota Prius actually costs about $150,000.00 there).

Least expensive city to live in: Mumbai, India At the other end of the spectrum, Mumbai, India, is the cheapest place to live in the world, according to the Worldwide Cost of Living Index 2014. For some perspective, a loaf of bread that would cost $3.36 in Singapore, would only cost $0.91 in Mumbai.

page 19 November 2015

HAPPY NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS!

11/19 Dorothy Rudack 11/20 Kris Peluso 11/21 J. Russel Larson 11/24 Monika Buck 11/28 Mary Jo Roy 11/29 Connie Harris

11/12 Bob Berg 11/12 Melissa Fast 11/13 Sandi Thompson 11/13 Trey Uphoff 11/14 Geraldine Hull 11/15 Carolyn McCanless 11/15 Sue Mumma

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 Neal Ipema

ÂjxÄÄ wÉÇx? g{Éâ zÉÉw tÇw yt|à{yâÄ áxÜätÇà‹A XÇàxÜ à{Éâ |ÇàÉ à{x }Éç by à{ç _ÉÜwAÊ

Matthew 25:21

Hospitalized? Call the church!

If you are sick, hospitalized or home recovering from ill-ness, we want you to call the church and let us know! In a con-gregation like ours where people leave in droves for extended summer months, it is easy for the staff, elders and deacons to assume, when we don’t 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 com-municating your situation.

11/01 Gary DeBernardi 11/01 Deborah Stark 11/02 Louise Jones 11/02 Jack Morris, Jr 11/03 Jean Foster 11/03 Marilyn Pape 11/10 John Skewes

The world's oldest city: Damascus There's quite a bit of controversy over which city gets to offi-cially claim the title of "oldest continuously inhabited city." With evidence of civilization that extends back over 11,000 years, Damascus in Syria is probably the safest bet.

Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church

13001 N. Fountain Hills Boulevard

Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

Non Profit Organ.

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

Permit NO. 299

Scottsdale, AZ

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 fhpc.marta@gmail.com Editor, Marta Ludwig; Proof Readers: Suellen Russell & Jean Ipema; Staff Pho-tographers: 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.

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

Current Resident or

Celebration Singers are back! Alleluia!