FOUNTAIN HILLS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

IN TOUCH
Fountain Hills, AZ
From the Pastor In Search of Our Kneeling Places
In each heart lies a Bethlehem An inn where we must ultimately answer Whether there is room or not When we are Bethlehem-bound We experience our own advent in his When we are Bethlehem-bound We can no longer look the other way conveniently not seeing stars Not hearing angel voices. We can no longer excuse ourselves by busily Tending our sheep or our kingdoms. This Advent lets go to Bethlehem And see this thing that the Lord has made known to us In the midst of shopping sprees Lets ponder in our hearts the Gift of Gifts. Through the tinsel Lets look for the gold of the Christmas Star. In the excitement and confusion, in the merry chaos, Lets listen for the brush of angels wings. This Advent, lets go to Bethlehem And find our kneeling places. Ann Weems

December 2013

PREPARE THE WAY. . .

A voice cries out: In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Then the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all people shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken. Isaiah 40:3-5

Prepare the way of the Lord. The ancient command calls the people of God to attention. The glory of the Lord is about to be revealed. But first, says the prophet, we have work to do. First, we must prepare the way! For the Bethlehem-bound, this preparation includes times of private devotion, times of seeking the truth of scripture, and times of shared worship. Opportunities to pursue all of these activities are available this year to our FHPC family. Check out the letter inside for more details and the full schedule of Advent events. Come join us as we prepare the way for the Infant King to be born anew in our hearts. It is my heartfelt prayer that this might be the year that the glory of the Lord is revealed to each of us in true and lasting ways. Grace and Peace,

FHPC VISION & MISSION STATEMENTS Our Vision:

Living Gods love.

calls us to . . . Our Mission :

Reach out to all with faith and love.

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

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Focus on Finance
Oct. Income Oct. Expense $ 28,419 $ 32,910 Budget Budget $ 28,900 $ 33,235

Rev. Stan Jones

Parish Associate

Debby DeBernardi
Director Christian Formation

Marta Ludwig
Administrative Coordinator

Yr to date Income

$ 350,114

Budget Budget

$ 338,350 $ 340,878

Debbie Fisher
Director of Music Ministry

Yr to date Expense $ 343,455

Dorothy Parris
Pianist

Caryl Bates
Organist

Lynn Medley
Custodian

CHURCH TREASURER John Skewes CHURCH SESSION Class of 2013 Bob Lull Susan Owens Jim Roy Donna Yordy Class of 2014 Gail Botsford Jerry Cain Carol Hencz Jerry Maples Letha Neely Class of 2015 Brooks Benjamin John Brockelman Jake Eberspacher Helen Quigley Terri Schmidt Chris Young BOARD OF DEACONS Moderator: Yvonne Ellingson Class of 2013 Yvonne Ellingson Sandy Heunisch John Schopbach Donna Sims Class of 2014 Irene Cain Phyliss Kern Linda Maples Helen Roesch Class of 2015 Ben Fast Jack Morris Ruby Pearson Bev Watters ******
Rev. Glenn Atchinson Pastor Emeritus

Overall, for budgetary purposes, the month of October performed as projected for both Income and Expenses. Looking forward to the final 8 weeks of Fiscal Year 2013, we will be keeping one watchful eye on our Pledge collections -- with the other eye ever vigilant on Expenses to ensure expenditures remain on course. With your help, we can bring 2013 in for a glorious close. Thank you for all you have done this year.

Respectfully, John Skewes, Treasurer

On the Inside:
From Our Pastor. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . . . .. . . . .. . . . .. . . . Focus on Finance .. .. .. .. .. . .. . .. . Beth Moore Bible Study for Ladies .. .. . . .. . . . . . . . . . Photo Directory.. . . .. .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . Stewardship.. .. . .. .. . . .. . . . . .. . . . . . . Mission Ministry . . . . . .. .. .. .. . . . .. . . . . .. . . . Straight Talk About Aging .. .. .. . .. . . . .. . 40th Anniversary Celebration .. .. . . .. .. . . . .. . .. Presbyterian Women .. .. .. . .. . . . . .. . .. . . .. . . .. New Members .. .. .. ... .. .. . .. . .. .. .. . . .. .. FHPC Foundation .. .. . .. . ... . .. . .. . .. . December at FHPC .. .. .. . . .. .. . . . . . . . ... .. . .. . Congregational Life & Fellowship . .. . .. .. . . . . .. Christian Formation . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .. .. . .. .. . . . . . From the Director of Christian Formation .. . . . . . . . . . FH Community Band Concert . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . 2014 Concert Series. .. .. .. .. .. . . . . . . . . .. .. . . . . . . Library Footnotes.. .. . .. . . . . . Look who was 100.. .. .. .. .. . . . . . .. . . .. . . . . .. Music Ministry .. .. . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. .. .. .. . . . . Rummage Sale . .. .. . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . Member Spotlight...Did You Know? . . . . . . . . . . . . Necrology for 2013 .. .. . . .. .. . .. . .. . .. December Birthdays .. .. .. . . .. Christmas Schedule .. .. .. . . . .. . . .. .. . .. . . . . . . . . 1 2 3 3 3 4 5 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 15 16 16 17 17 18 19 19 20

page 3 Jesus The One And OnlyA Beth Moore Video study
Led by: Sylvia Burke We hear the stories of the Christmas baby born in Bethlehem, and Jesus the Savior who died on the cross at Easter. But. . . What about Jesus the son, . . . the brother, . . .the friend, . . . the teacher, . . . the prophet, Jesus the compassionate worker of miracles, . . . . . . the Son of God? Do you know the real Jesus? The first great commandment is to love the Lord your God with your whole heart and mind and soul . . .To do this, we must know Him. Beginning Monday night, January the 6th, 6:30 p.m.8:30 p.m. we will take a journey with Beth Moore through the gospel of Luke. The video filmed in Israel will take us through the life and death of Jesus of Nazareth. For those ladies who dont go out at night, the study will be offered on Tuesday mornings beginning January 7th from 9 to 11 a.m. Please come and bring a friend or neighbor. All are welcome. Study books may be purchased from Marta in the office. Cost $17.50. Please let Marta know if you are interested in the study or send an email to sdburke2025@yahoo.com. Dont miss the inspired teaching and humor of Beth Moore, international Bible study teacher.

December 2013

Youre Wanted

For Our New 2014 FHPC Pictorial Church Directory

We need you to help make our new church family album complete. You can go online to schedule your appointment at our church website at www.fhpresbyterian.info any day except Sunday, just click on the: Photo Directory logo on our home page and follow the simple instructions. Remember, if you schedule your appointment online you will receive a $10.00 coupon (one per family) toward any purchase you make. This coupon will be e-mailed to you when you receive your photo appointment date reminder. Also, bring a nonperishable food item and you will receive a $5.00 off coupon (one per family). These food items will be donated to Extended Hands Food Bank. . Sittings are scheduled for December 13 and 14 and January 9, 10, and 11 in the Education Classrooms just across the playground from the Fellowship Center. Please allow one hour for your sitting.

Stewardship
From our I Couldnt Have Said it Better Dept...One of our Elders shared this with me from an unremembered source. If youre still pondering a pledge to FHPC perhaps youll find this as meaningful as I did.
I Am Glad this Church needs Money I am glad this church needs money! If it did not, it would mean it was not supporting missionaries and preaching the gospel in other places. No missionary zeal. I am glad this church needs money! If it did not, it would mean it was not doing anything to support the homeless, helpless and needy. No compassion. I am glad this church needs money! If it did not, it would mean it had topped out and was not interested in expanding into other areas of needed service, No vision. I am glad this church needs money! If it did not, it would mean it was not interested in providing wholesome activities. I am glad this church needs money! If it did not, it would mean it was not expanding its outreach. No evangelism. I am glad this church needs money! If it did not, it would mean it was not interested in teaching children in those impressionable, formative years. No future. Yes sir, I am glad this church needs money! The fact that it does means it has not forfeited its zeal, compassion, expansion, vision, concern, evangelism, future. This church needs my gifts and I am glad of it. I would not want to be a member of any other kind. - Joe R. Barnett, The Edifier

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In Touch

November 2012 page 4

Mission Ministry
Angel Tree
We are supporting the Angel Tree project again this year. If this is something you are interested in participating in, stop by after Church and pick up your angel from the tree in the Narthex. We are asking that you keep the money spent between $25.00$40.00. It was brought to our attention that we have many giving people in our congregation, and some of the kids get a lot of things while others do not receive as much. We dont want children in the same family getting hurt feelings. These lists are suggestions on what the children would like, not a list of what has to be purchased. Thank you!

Terri Schmidt and Susan Owens, Elders I am going to quote a line from a song I recently heard and you may recognize it. When you give from the heart, you never know how far it will go. Thank you Jeff Dayton, these words have really struck a chord in me. This song talks of a man who gave $20.00 to a man who he thought would really be grateful and in need of the $20.00. He watched as the man took the money, thanked him and turned and gave it to another who was also in need. This is truly the act of Gods ministry. I have said it before; what we do for others may seem like a small thing, but it can mean so much to so many others. This is what we here in this ministry are trying to accomplish.

Changing Lives Center/ Phoenix Rescue Mission

We here on the Mission Committee again agreed to take some Christmas gifts down to Changing Lives Center. We bought Christmas stockings and filled them with toys, bubbles, play dough, coloring books, colors, balls, and activity books for the kids. We kept them age appropriate for the different ages. Then we filled Christmas stockings with scented body wash, flavored lip balm, crossword puzzle books, and socks for the Moms living there. We will be delivering these stockings to the Center later this month. There are approximately 100 Mothers and Children living in this facility. We also gave the Center a check to help buy Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinner supplies. This facility is the counter part of the Phoenix Rescue Mission, only women and children under 12 are in this facility. We also sent a check to the Phoenix Rescue Mission to help feed those in need or homeless for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. We on the Mission Committee are always looking for anyone wishing to join our committee. If you feel this is something you would like then join us; we meet every 2nd Monday of the month in the conference room at 4:00pm, or you can contact Terri Schmidt or Susan Owens. Again thank you to all who so willingly and graciously support our projects.

Extended Hands Food Bank

As the Holidays approach, we are continuing to collect food each week for the EHFB. Thank you to all who continue to bring in food. Thank you to Vivian Virden, Nancy Wulfmeier, Susan Owens, and Terri Schmidt for helping at Jim Bobs Fish Fry on November 1st. This is an on going service we are providing the Food Bank. If you think you would like to help serve, contact Terri or Susan. We do this the first Friday of the month. If you have clothes you no longer wear and are in good shape, you can bring them into the Church office. We will take them to Maxs Closet. These will go to those in need at a reduced price or free if they cannot afford the clothes. Maxs Closet also takes things such as dishes, towels, blankets and other household items.

Thanksgiving Projects
Thank you to all who so graciously brought in frozen Turkeys for Extended Hands Food Bank. You helped make many people have a truly Happy Thanksgiving. I also want to thank all who helped out at the Thanksgiving Dinner at Shepherd of The Hills Lutheran Church. This was another successful meal.

Live to give
In Acts 20:35, Paul quotes Jesus as saying, It is more blessed to give than to receive. (Interestingly, thats the only recorded statement of Jesus thats not found in one of the four gospels.) The blessings of giving are profound and lasting Poet Maya Angelou says, I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.
The Newsletter Newsletter

By Communication Resources Inc.

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In Touch

December2013 page 4

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In Touch

December 2011 page 6

Presbyterian Women
Presbyterian Women Coordinating Team for 2013-2014 Moderator: Ilene Berg Mission Coordinator: Mary Alice Bivens Vice-Moderator : Susan Lickman Librarian: Barbara Oakeson Secretary: Linda Warren Membership/Yearbook Coordinator: Maria Berry Treasurer: Maria Berry Bible Study Coordinator: Evelyn Hrunek Publicity: Sally Atchinson Search Committee: Linda Capron Morning Circle Leader: Carol Fuls Evening Circle Leaders: Maria Berry & Jeanene Schopbach Afternoon Circle Leader: Martha Baxter Historian: Office Angels Hooked on Books Leader: Jan Hoff Out n About Leader: Arlene Olsen
December 3 December 6 December 12 December 16 December 18 December 18 Afternoon Circle (1st Tuesday) PW Coordinating Team meeting Morning Circle (2nd Thursday) Evening Circle Hooked on Books Out & About Luncheon 1:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 7:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. 12:00 noon Fountain View Village Adult Center Adult Center Home of Donna Yordy 16800 El Lago Blvd #1076 See separate box on next page See separate box on next page

DECEMBER

As Presbyterian Women we want to be involved in meaningful activities that benefit our own lives but also provide friendships and make a difference in our congregation and our town. I think the PW Purpose says its better than I can.

PW Purpose
Forgiven and freed by God in Jesus Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to support the mission of the church worldwide, to work for justice and peace, and to build an inclusive, caring community of women that strengthens the Presbyterian Church and witnesses to the promise of Gods kingdom. I just finished reading one of the books from our Presbyterian Womens Reading List for 2013-2014 entitled Goodbye my Suburu by Doug Fine. Its a humorous depiction of trying to live greener by a New York man who moves to New Mexico. Its not just funny; its thought provoking about choices we make. The books are selected by a PW committee including our own Donna Yordy who is involved in selecting books for the coming 2014- 2015 Reading List. This years list can be found on the next page. It contains an excellent choice of books to capture your attention and imagination.

Finding time to act on behalf of community isnt so easy in our busy lives. We get so focused on self preservation and personal goals but there sure are some inspiring stories and ideas of ways to make our world better. Our choices and our voices can improve the shared space of our community and help us shine our light from this loving church to our neighbors and a bigger world.

PW Winter Gathering
January 20, 2014 Bring a salad to share and come enjoy good food and a wonderful program. Our guest speaker will be Martha Sadongei (Kiowa/ Tohono Oodham). She is a teaching elder and 1996 graduate of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. She is active in Native American ministries in Grand Canyon Presbytery and serves Central Presbyterian Church in Phoenix. Her topic is 'Sacajawea and Pocahontas: Debunking the Myth of Native American Woman. Come learn about the stereotype often used to portray Native American Women versus the realities native women face. We will have special flute music provided by our own Debbie Fisher. We are hoping that some of our neighboring Yaivapai women will join us for this gathering.

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An offering will be taken for 2nd Mile Giving which is vital to the support of so many needed programs.

December 2013 Books from the PW 2013-2014 Reading List Fiction:

Jimmy by Robert Whitlow The Preservationist by David Maine Sally Atchinson The Guernsey Literary and Potato Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer & Annie Barrows The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver Mystic Sweet Communion by Jane Kirkpatrick

Non-Fiction:
Peace they Say, A History of the Nobel Peace Prize, the Most Famous and Controversial Prize in the World by Jay Nordlinger Vanished Arizona by Martha Summerhayes Ask me Why I Hurt by Randy Christensen Nickled and Dimed, or Not Getting by in America by Barbara Ehrenreich Gabby, A Story of Courage and Hope by Gabrielle Giffords, Mark Kelly A Thousand Sisters by Lisa Shannon and Zainab Salbi The Good Daughter, A Memoir of My Mothers Hidden Life by Jasmin Darznik The Sisters of Sinai: How Two Lady Adventurers Discovered the Hidden Gospels by Janet Soskice Farewell, My Subaru, An Epic Adventure in Local Living by Doug Fine

Looking ahead to 2014:

January 18, 2014 January 20, 2014 March 1, 2014 March 23, 2014 April 5, 2014 Straight Talk about ...Aging! PW Winter Gathering 5:30 PM Fellowship Center PWP Winter Gathering GIFTS OF WOMEN Sunday PW Spring Gathering

Out n AboutOut to Lunch

HOOKED ON BOOKS will
We will meet at Fire Rock Country Club at 12:00 noon on December 18. This is always a pretty place to dine. As usual we will receive separate checks with tax and tip. Come join us! Call Arlene Olsen at 837-4271 for reservations. meet on Wednesday, December 18 at 9:30 AM at the home of Barbara Oakeson, 16072 E. Ponderosa Dr. The group will be sharing Christmas stories, poems and remembrances. All women are invited to attend. For further information contact Jan Hoff - 480-836-7551

In Touch

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New Members
family of rich heritage in the Missionary, global work and the Protestant Ministry in the Assembly of God Church. Her special interests are Education and assisting others (especially those who are senior to herself). Aleyne taught French, Spanish and Social Studies for 28 years in New Jersey and she progressed to a Principle position and District Director of all adult education. She retired from teaching in 1996 and moved to Phoenix. She is now in the Real Estate profession and joined MCO Realty in 2005 to specialize in the resale of homes and land. However, she still does some substitute teaching at Desert Mountain H. S.. Rodger Bachman Rodger was born in Nebraska and has lived in Arizona since he was 3 years old and Fountain Hills for the past 21 years. He served in the military and then began his career with General Electric in computer time sharing. Today he does repairs and is the owner of his own company Sir Fix A Lot he lived in Newtown, Connecticut for one year helping his son renovate his home. Rodger has 2 sons and 2 grandchildren. When asked what one thing would he like to share with the congregation Rodger stated that he has some piano experience, but once he mastered Dolly Dear, Sandman near, you will soon be sleeping it was over. So he wants Dorothy Parris to be assured he will never be filling in for her. Aleyne Larsen-Craig Aleyne is originally from New Jersey and has been a resident of Fountain Hills for 14 years. She is from a When we asked what brought her to our church, she replied: Russ & Joan Larson invited Rodger and myself. We began with the Wednesday evening service and then progressed to the Sunday Service and I was delighted with the music. Rev. Good impressed me by his knowledge and delivery of Gods word and his humility. Joseph Kent Canine (Kent) Kent resides in Mesa and has lived in Arizona for 3 years. His home church is in Minneapolis where he volunteers for hospitality gatherings and dinners once a month for the homeless. Kent has a son and daughter-in-law who live in Loveland, CO and a brother and partner living in Indiana and Louisiana. His special interests are golf, sports, arts and gardening. He says his consistency in golf is being inconsistent. Kent lived in Indiana in his youth and attended both Indiana and Columbia Universities. He was in the Army for 3 years and lived in Minneapolis for 37 years. Most of his career was in medical related research and education and philanthropy. He came to our church on a recommendation of friends Mary and George Holtan. His cousin, Ed & Jenny Scudder, also formerly attended our church many years ago.

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 Gail Botsford at 412-613-3312 or call the church office at 480837-1763.

Gail Botsford, Elder

New Members
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New Members
Judy and Phil Ruppel Judy and Phil have been winter visitors for 13 years. They are from the state of Iowa and are joining as Affiliates. Their home church is the 1st Congregational Church of Dubuque, Iowa. They have a son and a daughter and 4 grandchildren, ages 6 18 who live in Dubuque, and they sold their business to the children in 2008. Phil has served as a trustee to the University of Dubuque, which is a Presbyterian Church U.S.A., for 22 years. Judy loves to cook and participates in many cooking classes. She also likes to sew and knit. Judy states that she is always asked What do you do all winter? Her response, I dont know, but it takes all day! Phil said, when asked what he did for a living, he tells people that I flipped hamburgers for Wendys. We had franchises in Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Illinois. Douglas and Lana Busche Doug and Lana have lived in Fountain Hills for 29 years. They are former members and are returning to their church family. They have 3 daughters, Alison, Karlyn, Reagan and son-inlaw Kyle Sonnenberg and grandson, Benjamin. Lana is a nurse at Mayo Clinic and Doug has owned his own business, the Mariposa Propane Company for 29 years.

Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church Foundation

An Investment Today for the Life of Our Church Tomorrow
Foundation Board of Trustees Barbara Oakeson Matt Jefferson Roy Nickel Jerry Cain 480-837-5563 Susan Phillips 480-837-6001 Gary Reynolds 480-688-8392 b Ben Fast 480-837-1764 480-837-1225 480-836-9552 480-837-1119

Gifts given to the Memorial Fund are used by the church for current needs or special items. Many times these donations are in lieu of flowers at a Memorial Service. The Foundation receives cash gifts at any time or bequests through wills or trusts at the time of death of the person wishing to insure the future prosperity and continuation of the church. Any member of the Foundation board can answer questions you might have about setting up your final documents and you are always welcome to attend any Foundation Board meetings.

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December at FHPC
Lots of Volunteer Opportunities!
December 7, 2013
Campus Decoration for Christmas Chili Dump Live Nativity at the Avenue 9:00 AM 11:00 AM 5:00 PM

Please call the church office at 837-1763 and let Marta know if you can help with any of these activities. We need all the help we can get. It is so much fun working together. Become a part of your church family, join in whether its decorating a tree or a table; cooking chili or pouring punch; cleaning up or acting in a live Nativity. We need YOU! Youll be so glad you did.

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December 2013

Congregational Life & Fellowship

Decorating the church for Christmas
Many churches invite their members to help prepare the church for Advent and Christmas. Some call the event the Hanging of the Greens. Pine or fir branches, holly, pine cones, candles, colorful cloths or ribbons and an Advent wreath are used for decorations. A tree with Chrismons hanging on it is often placed somewhere in the sanctuary. Some churches add a new decoration to the sanctuary each week during the season. The custom of displaying a Nativity scene in the chancel dates from the early 1600s. The tradition started in Germany. It is thought that the first live Nativity scenein church live animals and people representing shepherds and wise men gathered at an outdoor mangerbegan with St. Francis of Assisi around the year 1220.

ANNUAL CHILI DUMP

December 7, 11 am - ?
Join us please!
Come decorate our church property (inside and out) and then come to the Fellowship Hall for nice, warm (some HOT) chili from 11a.m. until it's all gone. There will be plenty of hot coffee and tea for those that want to come in earlier and warm up. Bring a dish of your favorite chili and we will be glad to keep it warm and ready to serve at 11 am. C.L.A.F. will provide the rest of the luncheon. So, bring your Tums and come make our church grounds beautiful for Christmas and have a chili lunch for your efforts.

Christmas Eve
Following the 4:00 PM Children's Christmas Eve service, C.L.A.F. will be providing hot chocolate and cookies in the breezeway for those who have attended the service. We hope you will plan on staying and enjoying the refreshments. The Live Nativity and Petting Stable will be available until 5:30 PM. - C.L.A.F. Committee

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Christian Formation
Blessed Beginnings Ministry
What a wonderful fall season we have experienced!!! We have been so blessed with beautiful weather in our beautiful Fountain Hills Desert city. It Carol Hencz, Elder is now the season to make plans and begin the celebration of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Check out what is going on at Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church and come and join us in our festivities. The former class study for this group has been replaced with our new Intergenerational Service which is being held from 11:15 - 12:15. We are offering Blessed Beginnings Ministry for infants. And a Ministry for preschoolers if families choose not to keep younger ones with them or if a child needs extra attention. We will always offer more to provide a Christian ministry with children - even the babies. fellowship and studying Gods word. We would be pleased to have you participate with us. Each man has an opportunity to ask questions, make comments, and explore passages we read together. What a wonderful way to start your day! We meet in the Adult Center each Thursday at 7:00 a.m. for an hour. We share coffee, donuts, laughter, and personal experiences. We look forward to your participation. All men are welcomed! -John Bivens

THE WAY
On Wednesday evenings, after a GOURMET DINNER by Chef Arlene, Pastor Bill leads the adults in the Bible Study from 6:30 7:45 pm. His topic for December will be A Clear View of the Birth of Jesus. Come and join us for fine food and fellowship at 5:45 pm. We will be joined by the Elementary Kids and our Teens. We ask for a small donation of $7.00 for dinner. Kids and Teens eat free. The Elementary Kids (Kid Community) meet from 5-6 pm. Their ministry has worship, music, traditions, storytelling, response and small group conversation and activity time. Wednesday Night Live for Teens meet at 6:30 pm. Teens will use a way of being together followed by facilitating a topic/lesson/issue then a D-group discussion. Included will be a teen adopted community mission of choice, summer camp, variety of socials.

Sabbath Day Bible Study Advent In the desert prepare the way for the Lord..
Advent is a time of expectant anticipation for the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. How do we prepare for this world changing event? The journey to Christs birth is much more than the trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem. The foundation and preparation began centuries earlier with scripture from the Old Testament. During the advent season, in the Sabbath Day Bible Study we will explore the desert preparation for the way for the Lord (Isaiah 40: 3-4 NIV). We will also see if we can find new meaning in the familiar stories of the birth of Jesus found in the New Testament. The more we learn, the more we marvel at Gods Holy Word. Please join us for this study each Sunday leading up to Christmas at 10:15 11:15 a.m. in the Adult Center. CLAF graciously provides cookies to go with our coffee so we can have fellowship while we share in our Bible Study. We welcome all who have an interest and are willing to participate. John Bivens

ADVENT A daily Advent devotional guide, My Soul Magnifies The Lord by Rev. Dr. Tim Smith, may be obtained at no charge in the Narthex and the Church Office. On The Way on Wednesday nights we will utilize multimedia resources to provide A Clear View of the Birth of Jesus as we open the Nativity scriptures to see what they really reveal about our Lord and our hope. At two services of worship each Sunday we will gather together to share our anticipation of the arrival of the Christ child. And finally, on Christmas Eve we will hold a Family Service of Worship at 4pm and our traditional service of Carols and Candles at 7pm to celebrate that miraculous birth.

Mens Bible Study Men Why Not?

Men, why not join with other interesting and enjoyable men in the Thursday morning Mens Bible Study? We have a delightful time in

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December 2013

From the Director of Christian Formation

Advent - I am particularly fond of this season!
Advent means coming or arrival. The focus is on celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ as the First Advent and anticipating the return of Christ at His Second Advent. So, we celebrate the arrival of Jesus and personally respond to the hope, peace, joy and love He offers. We Debby DeBernardi anticipate His return to bring His love and justice to the entire world. How wonderful! If you, your child, grandchild or entire family would like to be a part of the Advent worship during Sunday mornings or dress up in biblical costume for one of our Live Nativity Stables, it can become a treasured memory and tradition for your family, too! Contact Debby to reserve your time! Call 602-570-7340.

Why Scream When You Can Shout?

Elementary KidCommunity dressed up in various costumes for a party with a purpose. The evening began with a fun snack and activity followed by jumping in and dancing to one of the kids favorite worship songs called Jump. Singing how they desire to jump in and follow God into the unknown, all the kids and leaders literally jumped into a great evening! Through a lesson filled with games to discover truths and the space to scream and shout each of us enjoyed getting closer in relationship with God, His promises and each other. Kids were introduced to how the gospel provides a way to live as winners to shout in victory rather than screaming in fear or defeat. Here are some of the SHOUTs to be able to win in life: Kids gave a...

SHOUT of Gratitude to thank God for all the good things! SHOUT for Teammates because their closest friends live for Jesus!
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In Touch
SHOUT for Direction to listen and obey God when they make choices! SHOUT for Help knowing they can go to God anytime they need help! SHOUT Out to Others because they can help others win too by saying, God wants to be your God, too! Wednesday Elementary KidCommunity has now entered into the New Testament of the Big God Story. We look forward to guest story tellers to bring an interactive message of hope to us as we continue the large group worship, small group discussions, activities and responses. Special thanks to the KidCommunity Team Sandy Heunisch, Judy Irvin, and Gary DeBernardi (along with Debby DeBernardi).

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God among us
The claim that Christianity makes for Christmas is that at a particular time and place God came to be with us himself. When Quirinius was governor of Syria, in a town called Bethlehem, a child was born who, beyond the power of anyone to account for, was the high and lofty One made low and helpless. The One who inhabits eternity comes to dwell in time. The One whom none can look upon and live is delivered in a stable under the soft, indifferent gaze of cattle. The Father of all mercies puts himself at our mercy. - Frederick Buechner
The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

Teen Ministry involves social times, service times, learning times and
prayer times. It is all about connecting truth in life for a transformed self for the sake of others. Many voices and activities clamor for the attention of teens today. We are thankful to have devoted leaders of all ages who like hanging with and doing life with the teens. Community shapes our souls! We are also grateful for guests to also give attention to our teens. Pastor Ken Brown will be sharing his spiritual journey from agnosticism to faith in Christ Jesus as he hangs out with the teens and leaders after finishing his series offered during The Way. Teens will have a chance to explore their doubts, questions and concerns in an honoring environment with a special ear and heart for them. Teens are discerning and planning what their community mission is this year along with a couple of socials. A tradition is becoming of have a New Years Overnight Party. So, thanks teen team for planning and hosting teens in bringing in the New Year! Thank you Tyson, Kristi (and Ella) Robinson, Charlie Eberspacher and Jack Morris for your leadership and companionship!

EVERYBODY, SOMEBODY, ANYBODY AND NOBODY

This is a little story about four people: Everybody, Somebody, Anybody and Nobody. There was an important job to be done, and Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that because it was Everybodys job. Everybody thought that Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldnt do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done.
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December 2013

Fountain Hills Community Band

Christmas Concert
At Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church

Tuesday, December 10, 2013 at 7:00 PM

in the Sanctuary Free will offering will be accepted

Tickets for Concert Series 2014

The Entertainment Concert Series at the Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church will start single ticket purchases for all shows on December 1st . There will be a ticket sales kick-off at 8:30 am in the church Fellowship Hall and after church until 10:15 am. You can also purchase tickets at the church office during the week, 11:00 am until 2:00 pm. NO CREDIT CARDS! Season tickets are also still available for all six shows. Church telephone number is 480-837-1763.

Concert Series features:

Brad Cummings (Ventriloquist) New Odyssey (3 Guys30 Instruments) Mark Preston (of the Letterman) Bommerama Blast (Music Hits from 50s-70s) Doo Wah Riders (Country with Cajun Twist) Dan Bennett (Comedy & Unique Juggler) Jan. 14th Jan. 28th Feb. 11th Feb. 25th Mar. 11th Mar. 25th

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In Touch

August 2011 page 16

Library Footnotes
As we enter the season of Advent, we find ourselves involved in the many preparations for the celebration of Christmas in our homes, our church, our community, or in plans for traveling. Sometimes we feel the need to step away from the busyness of it in order to focus on the real meaning of what we are celebrating. Hearing and reading Christmas stories, old and new, can renew our spirit and revitalize our efforts. Your Church Library has many resources available for check out. A sampling includes: The Story of the Other Wise Man by Henry Van Dyke, tells the story of a fourth Magi, Artaban who saw the same heavenly signs that told his friends, Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar, of the arrival of the Christ Child. Artaban has his own gifts (a sapphire, a ruby, and a pearl) to present to Jesus, but while hastening to join his friends, he stops to aid a dying man and is left behind. He spends the rest of his life in a search for Christ, but each time he comes close to his goal, he is sidetracked by the need to help another human being, giving away his gifts one by one. The Very First Christmas, winner of the Gold Medallion Book Award, is an illustrated account of the birth of Jesus from the gospel of Luke suitable for ages 8-12. The mother of an inquisitive child shares the Christmas story, answering his many questions about the context of the Nativity story. Annikas Secret Wish inspires young and old to freely give and share even long hoped-for gifts. Set in turn of the century Sweden, this beautifully illustrated book shares traditions from that culture. The Small One based upon Disneys animated short film, is the tale of a young boy having to sell his favorite donkey, Small One. He finally finds a man who will give his donkey the love and care he deserves little knowing that the man is Joseph and that Small One is the steed on which Mary rides to Bethlehem. Born in a Manger for preschoolers relates the story of Jesus birth in Bethlehem through simple poetry. Before and After Christmas : Activities and Ideas for Advent and Epiphany contains a treasury of ideas and activities for celebrating the days before Christmas plus things to do afterwards. Specific activities, including crafts, service projects, and family worship ideas, are included for each day.
Barbara Oakeson

Gifts for a King

Bring him thy precious things And lay them at his feet; The gold of love, the hope that springs The unknown ways to meet. Bring him thy lovely things; The joy that conquers care, The faith that trusts and sings, The frankincense of prayer. Bring him thy bitter things; The myrrh of grief and fears, The aching heart that stings With pain of unshed tears. These for thy gifts to him; And for his gifts to thee, The comfort of his steadfast love, His tender sympathy. - Annie Johnson Flint
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Russ Larson celebrated his

100th Birthday
at FHPC on November 17!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

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December 2013

Music Ministry
How active and alive the month of December is! There are so many Christmas preparations, activities, performances and events, with hustling and bustling about by all who share in this spirit of Christmas. Homes, shops, street lamps, even car antennas become illuminated and festively Debbie Fisher, Director of Music decorated to proclaim the season. People all around want to become part of the Christmas movement. Now is also a time when everyone seems to identify with the music of this season. The stores even allow sacred Christmas music to be piped in along with the secular standards, keeping us touched by the Christmas spirit. There's a lot of work to inundating the people with the experience of Christmas, starting almost 4 months before with the sound of glockenspiels in television commercials. I, myself, have been involved with Christmas music for many weeks, with school performance preparations, and the Fountain Hills Community Band repertoire, which will be presented in our church on Tuesday Evening, Dec. 10th. I've been working our Celebration Singers through some of the longer melissmatic passages of "The Messiah" since September in preparation for our presentation in our Sunday worship on Dec. 22nd. I am so looking forward to this presentation by the Celebration Singers, featuring talented soloists from our church, Mary Alice Bivens, Jackie Miles, Andrey Lull, and Howard Olsen, accompanied by our fabulous Dorothy Parris/ Piano, and Caryl Bates/Organ. We also have the Celebration Youth who are preparing "The Grumpy Shepherd," with our own Emerson Uphoff as the Grumpy Shepherd. (She really wanted to be a happy angel wearing pink,,,but, I've persuaded her otherwise.) The children will make their presentation at the 4:00 p.m. Family Service on Christmas Eve. The Celebration Ringers, the Pearwood Recorders, and Hilltop are all preparing music to bring into our worship services for the month of December with delightful Christmas arrangements. It's busy, and all of it blends together and crosses over into each others territory, the sacred and the secular. But, though I am in the middle of both the sacred and the secular music for one presentation after another during this season, I will always look forward to the moment most delicate to my soul when we as a church family all gather together outside our Sanctuary, with the new tradition Bill brought us on Christmas Eve, singing "Silent Night" by candlelight in our most clear voice, expressing our acknowledgment of the birth of Christ as the Son of God, where for that moment all is calm, and all is bright, and there is true joy, and there is true peace. Deborah Fisher Directory of Music Ministries
'But You, O Bethlehem of Eph'rathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me One who is to rule in Israel, Whose origin is from of old, from ancient days. Therefore He shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has brought forth; then the rest of His kindred shall return to the people of Israel. And He shall stand and feed His flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord God. And they shall live secure, for now He shall be great to the ends of the earth; and He shall be the one of peace.' - Micah 5:2-5

RUMMAGE SALE: Workers Needed for the week before March 22, 2014
WOMEN: we will need 2 Co-Chairpersons for the following sections: Books; Children Items; Garden/Floral arrangements; Holiday/ Home Decorations/Crafts; Housewares/Lamps; Linens & Bath Accessories; Mens Clothing; Womens Clothing; Paintings and Picture Frames. MEN: We will need your help with set up and clean up. Day of Sale: We will need cashiers and baggers. We will need food prep specialists to keep our workers energized throughout the day! The contact person for our upcoming rummage sale is Chris Young. If you can help with any of these areas, bless you! Please let me know what your preference is either at my work phone number - 480-789-7236 - or my cell phone number - 480-388-5075 - or via email at misschris_001@hotmail.com. Please note that there is an underscore between the misschris and the 001. Let's make it another great FHPC rummage sale!!

In Touch

page 18

Member Spotlight . Did you know?

have been married for 56 years. Jeanenes first job was working in a caf and mine was sacking groceries in my parents grocery store. Jeanene says that her favorite job was selling homes because she met so many people. We have been members of this church since 1996. As for who has had the most impact on my life, I would have to say former Pastor Stan Goerner in Colorado. Jeanene says that she feels that the people that had most impact on her life has been me and her parents. She also feels that she had the most impact on her brother Dean. As for the best advice offered to someone today I think it would be Live within your means. What we both feel is wonderful things about our church here in Fountain Hills is our Pastor, Rev. Bill Good and all of the friendly people we have met. I think the Bible studies are very good.

John & Jeanene Schopbach Jeanene and I moved to Fountain Hills sixteen years ago. Jeanene was born and raised in Harvard, Nebraska. She had six brothers all deceased. I was born in Longmont, Colorado and I was an only child. We met in college and

Gods highly valued investment

Someone once asked IBM founder Thomas Watson if he would fire an employee who made a mistake that cost the company $60,000. To the questioners surprise, Watson replied, Why would I fire someone in whom Ive invested $60,000 in training? Neither will God fire or in any way dismiss us for our mistakes and failures. He has invested far too mucheven his own Sons life! - in each of us for that. Dont hold back for fear of failure. Serve the Lord boldly. Try something new for the sake of the Gospel, and when you make a mistake, bring it honestly to God in prayer. Be open to the Holy Spirit, who provides continuing education - in Scripture, through other Christians and by connecting directly with your heartto improve your skills and gifts every day.
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Abundant blessings
There is plenitude in God. That great fact must never be lost or obscured. We must not exchange this immense graciousness for a few scraps of human morality or a few shopworn proverbs. God is a vast reservoir of blessing who supplies us abundantly. - Eugene H. Peterson, Traveling Light Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.

Life is like a camera: Focus on whats important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things dont work out, take another shot.
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December 2013 Hospitalized? Call the church! If you are sick, hospitalized or home recovering from illness, we want you to call the church and let us know! In a congregation like ours where people leave in droves for extended summer months, it is easy for the staff, elders and deacons to assume, when we dont see someone, that they are simply vacationing away. The truth is that some of you are sick and we are not aware of it. You can help us by simply letting one of the staff know of your situation. We have an excellent support system in place due to

With deepest sympathy we list those members who have passed away in 2013.

Herbert Robinson Goldie Demeter Jean Bricker Dean Heiser Tony Atchinson Barbara Wyman John Fenley Glenn Atchinson Susan Strom (Jensen) James Johnston

Keeping Christmas
Are you willing to believe that love is the strongest thing in the world stronger than hate, stronger than evil, stronger than deathand that the blessed life which began in Bethlehem [two thousand] years ago is the image and brightness of the Eternal Love? Then you can keep Christmas. And if you can keep it for a day, why not always? But you can never keep it alone Henry Van Dyke

Well done, Thou good and faithful servant. Enter thou into the joy Of thy Lord.
Matthew 25:21

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Dear Friends, Thank you for all of your thoughtfulness and kind deeds during my recovery. Love Sunniva Graves

HAPPY DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS!

12/02 12/02 12/03 12/03 12/07 12/07 12/08 12/08 12/09 12/09 Aleyne Larsen-Craig Nancy Wulfmeier Brooks Benjamin Brittany Conger Dave McDermid Earl Stavely Bud Fuls Marianne Winchester Carl Capron Dorothy Christie 12/11 12/12 12/12 12/13 12/19 12/20 12/21 12/21 12/21 12/22 Marta Ludwig Pauline Pollock Arlene Stewart Joyce Stott Kimberly Wall Kacey Schopbach Dante Guyah Gary Reynolds Emerson Uphoff Alfred Christensen 12/22 12/24 12/24 12/25 12/25 12/25 12/26 12/26 12/28 12/31 Carl Hayungs Linda Capron Phyllis Rapp Yvonne Ellingson Edee Grider Helen Schmidt Ilene Berg Sunniva Graves Lisa Kern Emily Welch

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

Non Profit Organ. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit NO. 299 Scottsdale, AZ

Current Resident or
To see the photos in beautiful living color, go to our website: www.fhpresbyterian.info

In Touch is published monthly; deadline for each issue is the 15th of the month before publication. News and information should be submitted to the church office in hard copy, or email to fhpresbyterian.office@gmail.com Editor, Marta Ludwig; Proof Reader, Helen Roesch; Staff Photographer: Gary Oakeson; Production and Circulation: Mary Wernecke, Bobbie Dangremond, Ruby Pearson, Marilyn Humes, Barb Hegwood, Arlene Olsen and Vivian Virden. Travel to Bulk Mail Post Office: Mary Martinson.

CHRISTMAS CALENDAR
Sunday Saturday Dec. 1st Dec. 7th 9:00 am & 11:15 am 10:00 am 12:00 pm 5:30 pm 9:00 am & 11:15 am 9:00 am & 11:15 am 9:00 am & 11:15 am 3:30 to 5:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm 9:00 am & 11:15 am 10:00 pm Worship Services 1st Sunday of Advent All-Church Christmas Decorating All-Church Chili Dump Live Nativity at Ave of the Fountains Worship Services 2nd Sunday of Advent Worship Services 3rd Sunday of Advent Worship Services 4th Sunday of Advent Live Nativity with Petting Animals Family & Children Worship Refreshments Candlelight Worship Service 1st Sunday after Christmas Day Memories & Hopes Sunday Teen New Years Eve Party: Zombie Apocalypse Survival Guide

Sunday Sunday Sunday Tuesday

Dec. 8th Dec. 15th Dec. 22nd Dec. 24th

Sunday Tuesday

Dec. 29 th Dec. 31st

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