Welcome!
Senior Pastor Chris Woodard chrisw@vpc.church
A Letter from Pastor Chris Valley Presbyterian Church Community, I am thrilled and humbled to be called to serve as VPC’s Senior Pastor. Brianna and I have been blessed to be part of this community for years, and we are excited to continue raising our family here as we do life together. Thank you for the countless kind words, texts, phone calls, cards, and even flowers! Your support and encouragement is a testimony to VPC’s flourishing community. I thank God everyday for this wonderful church and how it is a blessing to me, to you, and to the Valley. As we look forward to where God is moving, may our hearts seek a deeper relationship with Jesus and an openness to the movement of the Spirit in our community. Recently I walked to my office alongside Mike Roth, Awaken Café Manager (it is good to have friends that walk alongside you). I had just presided over an interment in our Memorial Garden and was on my way to meet with a young couple to discuss their baby’s upcoming baptism. He observed, “You are covering both ends of life today.” I responded, “Life happens here at the church,” and it’s true. From births to memorials, from milestones to the mundane, from celebration to crisis, the church is the one place where we gather and support each other across the spectrum of our lives. This Fall marks the next chapter of God’s story at VPC. God is on the move, and will continue to be on the move. I see it happening in your lives every week! I see you grow closer to Jesus through authentic worship, be formed through prayer and engagement with Scripture, and shaped by a congregation where disciples make disciples. I see God transforming our communities through your work. I see us doing life together. What a joy it is to be part of what God is doing here at VPC, Life Happens Here! Our Valley Day School is kicking off its 63rd year, and it is so fun watching children run around, cry, fall, laugh, climb—it is holy chaos. I’m excited to engage with these young parents as they figure out this new chapter of life! Now that I am an experienced and wizened father (with all of six years under my belt), I have plenty of wisdom to share, but only one piece of advice: find a faith community where your family can flourish. At VPC people and families flourish and connect across every stage of life. I continually see people grow in friendship and discipleship, inspired in worship, and cared for when life gets hard. We lost some great saints this past summer, and I am grateful to have been a part of their lives. They were earthly examples of how to receive and carry the Good News in Jesus. After these services I was approached on four separate occasions by people asking me to someday preside over their own memorials. What a statement of faith this is! In one request they are declaring to live the rest of their life in community at VPC. Their commitment personifies what real community is; people being formed by God through worship and discipleship, people dedicated to the call of God to transform our city, a people dedicated to doing life together. What a blessing it is to be part of this wonderful church. Life Happens Here! In worship, on campus, and with each other, we move in God’s direction for VPC. Please pray for me, Brianna, Max, and Oliver as we live into this transition. I will also pray for you and for God to continue blessing our community as a place where Christ’s transforming power and eternal salvation is lifted in worship, classes, our relationships, and in service to one another. Life Happens Here!
We were delighted to share with you not only the Gospel of God but our very lives as well because you had become so dear to us. -1 Thessalonians 2:8
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Yours in Christ, Chris Woodard
Get to know Pastor Chris! Conversations with Pastor Chris During Oasis Community Wednesday
September 9, 6-7PM, Room B106 Hear from Pastor Chris and learn more about our new Senior Pastor!
Coffee with Chris
Want to sit down and have a chat? Email Lauren: laurenp@vpc.church Read Pastor Chris’s letter to the congregation, check out his bio, and RSVP for these opportunities:
vpc.church/pastorchris
Life Happens Here SUNDAY WORSHIP 9AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
This service includes music, prayer, space for kids, preaching, scripture, and an emphasis on community. Music is commonly led by VPC’s Chancel Choir and accompanied by our organ.
10:30AM, Sanctuary & Livestream
Worship at this service contains many of the same elements as 9AM. Music is commonly led by VPC’s Worship Band with drums, guitar, piano, and bass. Whether you decide to attend a service because of the time or musical style, you will find space to hear God’s Spirit and respond through Christ-centered worship to God’s acts of salvation and ongoing transformation in the world.
Awaken Café, 8AM—Noon
vpc.church
Celebrate the legacy of generations
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Valley Presbyterian Foundation 50th Anniversary Celebration & Chapel Grand Opening
Worship vpc.church/worship
THERE’S A PLACE FOR YOU ON SUNDAYS THIS FALL! SEPTEMBER 6, 9 & 10:30AM Communion
A time of contemplation and commitment as we share communion.
SEPTEMBER 27, 9 & 10:30AM 3rd Grade Bible Presentation
Celebrating this milestone with our kids is one of the highlights of the year!
OCTOBER 4, 9 & 10:30AM Communion
A time of contemplation and commitment as we share communion.
OCTOBER 25, 9 & 10:30AM
Valley Presbyterian Foundation 50th Anniversary Celebration & Chapel Grand Opening Honoring the legacy of generations before us and our preserving our sacred spaces
NOVEMBER 1, 9 & 10:30AM
In Memoriam Celebration of the Saints/Communion This special service will honor those we’ve lost over the last year.
NOVEMBER 8, 9:30AM
Valley Day School Sunday/Single Service We welcome VDS kids & their families!
NOVEMBER 22, 9 & 10:30AM Commitment Sunday
Let’s look ahead and commit ourselves to what God will do in 2027!
DECEMBER 6, 9 & 10:30AM Communion
We’ll share the Lord’s table as we head into the holiday season.
DECEMBER 20, 9 & 10:30AM Nativity Pageant
Christmas is almost here! VPC kids will help tell the greatest story ever told.
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O asis Classes @VPC vpc.church/oasis
What is Oasis Community Wednesday?
There’s something for everyone on Wednesday night! Planning a family night is challenging, that’s why VPC offers a place with food, connection, classes, and programs for kids, students, and adults. Food served starting at 5:15PM, $5/person, $20/family.
CONVERSATIONS WITH PASTOR CHRIS An Open Forum with VPC’s new Senior Pastor
Wednesday, September 9, 6-7PM, B106 RSVP strongly recommended: vpc.church/pastorchris This is a great opportunity to hear from Pastor Chris and a chance to learn more about our new Senior Pastor!
WHAT IS A CHRISTIAN?
With Pastor Chris Woodard, Pastor Tina Gilbreath, & Wes Cates
September 16-October 28 (No class October 14), 6-7PM, B106 Ask any group what it means to be a Christian, and you will hear different answers. But what unifies us? What are the basic characteristics of our faith that every Christian affirms? Loosely based on a RightNow Media Francis Chan video series, this course focuses on the exploration of key common Christian concepts through the centuries. No matter what divides us, we are united by these truths about the God we worship and our relationship with Him.
SPIRITUAL FORMATION
With Kathy Oppenhuizen & Beth Allen
Starts September 16, 6-7:15PM, Admin. Conference Room Questions? Email Kathy: kathyop1024@gmail.com or Beth: ballen4771@gmail.com Join our study and reflection on deepening our relationship with Christ. We will be using a book called “The Divine Dance: An Invitation to the Life of the Trinity.”
WHAT IN THE WORLD IS STEPHEN MINISTRY? Wednesday, November 4, 6-7PM, Room B106 Sign up today: vpc.church/oasis Get a glimpse of how Stephen Ministry prepares their Care Givers to be Faith Friends. Join us for this overview to hear about key concepts taught in Stephen Ministry training that help hone your caring skills: maintaining boundaries, discerning feelings, listening with purpose, confidentiality, and more. These skills help you be a better partner, parent, coworker, and friend. If this workshop resonates with you, then becoming a Stephen Minister is available. Training classes are being scheduled for early 2027.
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CFamilies hildren @VPC vpc.church/children
Sundays
Events
VPC has fun and meaningful opportunities for kids & students! Please register your child 0-5th grade: vpc.church/children
Email Tina to learn more about these events: tinag@vpc.church, or visit the website: vpc.church/children
Nursery & Toddler Room: Infant—35 months
Families of 3rd Graders: How to read your Bible
Here infants and toddlers are introduced to their church home. We provide a safe, enjoyable environment, giving you peace of mind while participating in church activities.
Sunday School: Three years old—fifth grade
9 & 10:30AM, Various rooms No class December 27 (Christmas holiday) Each week children participate in interactive lessons to help them grow as disciples of Jesus. They play games, hear stories, make crafts, build relationships, and have fun!
Family Worship*
December 24* & 27 Childcare available for children 0-2 years old Parents, enjoy this special time with your older children. Childhood worship attendance helps develop faith that lasts a lifetime. Feel free to: • Quietly explain the parts of the service to your children. • Guide them to stand, sit, sing, or pray with the congregation. • *Christmas Eve Nursery hours TBD.
Wednesdays Oasis Community Wednesdays has something for everyone. OasisKids! and OasisMinis! are safe, fun environments to learn about the world in creative ways. Your child will build, draw, play, craft, sing, have fun, and learn more about Jesus. Register your child today: vpc.church/oasis
OASISKids! (K-5th Grades)
Wednesdays, September 9-November 4, 6-7:15PM, Room C204 No Oasis October 14
OASIS Minis! (3-5 years old)
Wednesdays, September 9-November 4, 6-7:15PM, Nursery No Oasis October 14
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Sunday, September 13, 10:30AM, D201 This class is a precursor to the presentation of 3rd grade Bibles on September 27. Families will learn tips to support and encourage them spending time studying their Bibles with their children.
Presentation of 3rd Grade Bibles
Sunday, September 27, 9 & 10:30AM worship We celebrate one of the significant milestones in the life of the church each year as we give personalized Bibles to each of our third grade kids. It is a great time to connect the whole VPC community together.
Trunk or Treat
Sunday, October 25, 5-7PM, South Parking Lot Volunteer or host a trunk: vpc.church/tot How will you decorate your trunk this year? Join hundreds of other costumed families and go from trunk to trunk in a fun, friendly, and safe environment. If you’re interested in helping out or have any questions, feel free to contact Tina.
ADVENT.ure‑Advent Christmas Party
Wednesday, December 2, 5:30-7:30PM, Awaken Café & Plaza Join us for an evening of fun and fellowship! Take part in the delicious and hilarious chili cook-off. It’s a great way to kick off the Advent season as a family.
Nativity Pageant
Sunday, December 20, 9 & 10:30AM Worship Services Mandatory Rehearsal: Saturday, December 19, 9-10:30AM This event is one of the highlights of the year, and there is a place for your kid to take part! Contact Tina to learn more about this Advent tradition.
S tudents Families @VPC vpc.church/students
Sundays Sunday Morning Gatherings are an intentional time of Biblical discipleship for students to get rooted and grow deeper in their faith.
Middle & High School
Sundays, 9:15 & 10:45AM, Room B108 Except: First Sundays of the month (Communion Sunday, worship with your family) Students are encouraged to sit with their families at the start of worship and be dismissed with Sunday School kids. On Communion Sunday, the first Sunday of each month, there is no Sunday Gathering, in order to encourage intergenerational corporate worship.
Wednesdays Connect and dig deeper with other students. Awaken Café will also be open as a homework room available for students and families to use after Middle School and before High School.
Oasis Students
Wednesdays starting September 2
Middle School
6-7:30PM, Orange Room Homework Space, 7:30-9PM Awaken Café
High School
7:30-9PM, Orange Room Homework Space, 6-7:30PM Awaken Café
Events These events are opportunities to make new connections, outreach, and invite new students! Need-based scholarships are available for all events. Register online today: vpc.church/students
MIDDLE SCHOOL Serve a meal with our unhoused neighbors Monday, September 14, 4:30-6PM Scottsdale Congregational United Church of Christ Questions? Email Wes: wesc@vpc.church Each month VPC provides a meal that we share with our unhoused neighbors in the community.
Middle School Veterans Day Lock-In
Tuesday, November 10-Wednesday, November 11 7PM-8AM, VPC Campus Questions? Email Wes: wesc@vpc.church Join us for a night of service and fun!
Middle School Christmas Party
Wednesday, December 9, 6-8PM, VPC Campus Questions? Email Olivia: oliviah@vpc.church Celebrate the Christmas Season with your VPC friends!
HIGH SCHOOL Serve a meal with our unhoused neighbors Monday, November 9, 4:30-6PM Scottsdale Congregational United Church of Christ Questions? Email Wes: wesc@vpc.church Each month VPC provides a meal that we share with our unhoused neighbors in the community.
4th Annual Thriftmas Fashion Show
High School Winter Retreat January 15-18, 2027, Location TBD
Join us for a weekend of friendship, natural beauty, exploration, and spiritual renewal. Details and registration coming soon!
Wednesday, December 16, 6-8PM, Room B108 Love Christmas? Love thrifting? This is the extravaganza for you! Bring a friend to this hilarious holiday happening.
FOR EVERYONE Parents vs. Students Kickball Game
Sunday, November 30, 10AM, Kiva Elementary School fields This epic showdown has occurred since time immemorial. There will be donuts, competition, and a stretching circle for parents. Don’t miss it!
ADVENT.ure‑Advent Christmas Party
Wednesday, December 2, 5:30-7:30PM, Awaken Café & Plaza Join us for an evening of fun and fellowship! Take part in the delicious and hilarious chili cook-off. It’s a great way to kick off the Advent season as a family.
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Valley DayFamilies School @VPC
vpc.church/vds
Valley Day School
For kids 18 months—five years old, Monday—Friday, 9AM-Noon, August—May Questions or tour requests? Email Meghan: meghang@vpc.church Valley Day School is a play-based Christian preschool for children 18 months old through age five. The number of days children attend is dependent on age. Our highly skilled teachers encourage developmentally appropriate learning and nurture the social and emotional development of every student. We value partnerships with parents, small class size, and the opportunity to share Jesus with each and every child. If you have a little one ready for preschool or know someone who is searching for the perfect first school experience, we’d love to help navigate this process. Valley Day School is fully enrolled for the 2026-2027 school year, but we are scheduling tours for 2027-2028 now. We offer tours of our school throughout the year, and we’d encourage you to come see our preschool in action!
Life Events
vpc.church/lifeevents
Baptisms
Tammy Gallagher: 480-991-6424, ext. 0163, tammyg@vpc.church When we baptize someone, we witness an individual being brought into the worldwide community of faith and specifically recognized as a unique creation.
Weddings
Brianne Bergfeldt: 480-991-6424, ext. 0138, brianneb@vpc.church VPC has several wedding venues. If you’re interested, please contact us early in the planning process. Celebrate with us!
Funerals, Memorial Memorial Garden & Services, & Receptions Interment Tammy Gallagher: Tammy Gallagher: 480-991-6424, ext. 0163, tammyg@vpc.church VPC’s staff is here to help support families and loved ones through this difficult time of transition.
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480-991-6424, ext. 0163, tammyg@vpc.church
VPC’s Memorial Garden is dedicated to its community and their families. One section has a Memorial Wall, where plaques may be placed in memory of a loved one interred or buried elsewhere.
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Music vpc.church/music
CONCERTS GCU Concert: Songs of Our Fatih
Friday, October 2, 7PM, Sanctuary, free Featuring the Canyon Chorale and Critical Mass
ASU Gospel Choir Concert
Sunday, October 18, 4PM, Sanctuary, free VPC is thrilled to bring back the amazing Gospel Choir from Arizona State University, directed by Nathan De’Shon Myers. The ASU Gospel Choir is a high energy choir built on the foundation of music, energy, love, and fellowship.
Veterans Day Concert
Chancel Choir & Valley Singers Sunday, November 8, 4PM, Sanctuary, free Join as we celebrate Veteran’s Day and our great country’s semitquincentennial through music and story! Sing along to some of your favorite patriotic songs. We will also include a Roll Call of military service members we have lost.
Student Showcase Recital
Sunday, November 22, 4PM, Sanctuary, free This concert will feature students of Nathan De’Shon Myers, Professor of voice and choral studies at ASU. You will hear artists through his family non-profit organization, Myers Family Foundation for the Arts.
GCU Concert: Christmas
Tuesday, December 8, 7PM, Sanctuary, free Featuring the Canyon Chorale and Critical Mass
The Innkeeper, A VPC Christmas Cantata
Sunday, December 13, 4PM, Sanctuary, free You are invited to hear the Christmas story told through the eyes of the innkeeper. The story unfolds using choral anthems, solos, and full orchestra as we enjoy the glorious Christmas music.
MUSIC GROUPS
Jennifer Hamm, jenniferh@vpc.church Chancel Choir
Weekly music leadership Sundays at 9AM service Singing uplifting anthems and congregational singing each week, the Chancel Choir is open to all skill levels high school and above and sing everything from classical to gospel music. Choir Open House Wednesday, September 9, 7:15-9PM, Choir Room If you have a heart for music and want to glorify the Lord through song, come try the Chancel Choir! No audition necessary. Choir is more than just a group that sings together each week, it is a ministry and a group of supportive, warm, prayerful people. Try it out with no pressure to commit and you might just stay!
Worship Band
Weekly music leadership Sundays at 10:30AM service The Worship Band is made up of vocalists, keyboard, bass, electric and acoustic guitar, and drums. We often add orchestral instruments, as well. If you have or want more experience in a band setting and would like to share your gifts, let us know.
NIGHT OF PRAYER & MUSICAL REFLECTION
Wednesday, November 18, 6PM, Chapel Gather with us in our beautiful chapel for an hour of prayer, music, and renewal.
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vpc.church/women
Valley Moms
September 18, October 2 & 23, November 6 & 20, December 11 Fridays, 9-11AM, B106, Cost: $150 for the school year Registration & childcare sign-up: vpc.church/moms What is Valley Moms? Valley Moms is open to moms throughout the community, whether or not they attend VPC! We gather to enjoy coffee, learn from inspiring speakers, share our experiences, support each other, build friendships, and see God at work while our kids have fun with our childcare team. Where do my kids go while I’m at Valley Moms? Childcare up to five years on a space-available basis. Your child enjoys Valley Day School classrooms and playground on VPC’s campus. All caregivers are background checked and fingerprinted.
Monthly Bible Study & Circle Meetings Life Lessons from Acts by Max Lucado
2nd Wednesday of the month, 9:30AM, Chapel This study teaches us about the dramatic story of the church’s birth and expansion from the Jesus’s ascension through Paul’s arrival in Rome. The apostles, energized by the Holy Spirit, guaranteed continuity with Jesus through their status as witnesses to everything that happened during His ministry.
Esther Circle
2nd Wednesday of the Month, 10:15AM, Chapel Parlor Kathy Arner: 602-739-4291, kathy.arner@gmail.com
Lydia Circle
2nd Wednesday of the Month, 10:15AM, Room E101 Sandra Gonzales: 602-616-0458, whiskchop@gmail.com Debbi Courtright: 480-594-3079, debem214@gmail.com
Mary Circle
3rd Tuesday of the Month, 10AM, Westminster Village Jeanne Campo: 480-994-4416, rjcampo@cox.net Fran Siems: 480-451-2244, fsiems@wmvaz.com
Luncheon & Speaker Series
RSVP to Ruth Brannan: zrbrannan@myctl.net
Singing America with Kay Randolph Women’s Bible Study
September 11 & 25, October 9 & 30, November 13, December 4 9:30-11AM, Room C204 Coffee & breakfast: 9AM Join us each week as we dive into scripture. Come a little early for coffee, breakfast goodies, and some time to visit!
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Wednesday, October 28, 11:30AM, Landes Center Join Kay for some of your patriotic favorites!
Christmas Luncheon & Sale
Wednesday, December 9, 11:30AM, Chapel Come enjoy great Christmas music! Mission Marketplace items will also be for sale.
Crafters Women’s Circles’ Crafters
Tuesdays through November, 9AM-Noon, Room D202 Questions? Call Jan Cooper: 602-941-1717 Join us in the Craft Room for fun, food, and fellowship! Bring your imagination and whatever craft you’d like to work on. Items are sold at the Mission Marketplace to benefit our Mission Partners.
Men vpc.church/men
Events More Than a Lake Day!
Saturday, September 12 8AM-2PM, Bartlett lake (carpool from VPC available) Cost: $25, register online: vpc.church/men Questions or carpool? Contact Pastor Chris: chrisw@vpc.church, 480-773-5318 Let’s kick off the year with some food, fellowship, and fun at Bartlett Lake. Activities include wake-boarding, tubing, cruising on a pontoon, beach games, BBQ and LOTS OF SNACKS. Good times for all!
Weekly/Monthly Men’s Breakfast/Coffee & Bible Study
1st & 3rd Tuesdays of the month, 7-8AM, Room B106 Interested? Email Chris: chrisw@vpc.church Gather at Awaken Café for breakfast or coffee, followed by Bible Study. All men are invited to join!
Men’s Adult Basketball
Thursdays, year round, Landes Center, 6AM, Free Mike Bitticks; michael.bitticks@gmail.com Looking for a way to begin your day with some great fun and exercise? Join us for a quick game before you head off to work. Showers and lockers available.
Men’s Small Groups
Various times/dates Questions? Email Pastor Chris: chrisw@vpc.church Our small groups are designed by our men, for our men, to help our men grow stronger, more confident and authentic in their relationship with Jesus. Small groups are a great time to grow deeper in faith as we live our life with each other.
Women’s Ministry Events Fun Fri-YAY
Friday, September 25, 9-11AM, Room C204 Take a few hours out of your day to be with other women and get your mind off things! We will serve together and organize items for distribution to those in our community in need.
Ornament Exchange
Sunday, December 6, 5-7PM, Candy Unruh’s Home RSVP: vpc.church/women Join us for this special tradition. We’ll enjoy good food, good fellowship, and good fun! RSVP appreciated.
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Serve
vpc.church/serve
Ensuring Student Success MentorKids USA
Paiute Promise Neighborhood After School Program Monday—Friday through December 17, 3-5PM Volunteer opportunities available! MentorKids USA needs help with registration, food prep, and making sure everyone is having fun safely. This is a great opportunity to meet new friends and develop relationships with people from the Paiute Promise Neighborhood. Volunteer Night Thrusday, September 24, 5-6:30PM First Baptist Church Scottsdale Morning of Hope Breakfast Friday, October 30, 7:30-9:30AM DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Scottsdale Prayer Walk Saturday, November 14, 9AM First Baptist Church Scottsdale Angel Trees Gifts for MentorKids USA Christmas Party, Family Promise, & Tuba City Sunday, November 15-Sunday, December 6 Pick up a tag (or two) from any Angel Tree in the Sanctuary Lobby and Awaken Café. MentorKids USA Christmas Party Thursday, December 17, 4PM, First Baptist Church Scottsdale VPC is excited to partner with MentorKids and FBCS for an awesome holiday event for the Paiute Neighborhood. Stay tuned for more details on how you can help celebrate the birth of Christ with these special families.
MISSION MARKETPLACE: STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART
Saturday & Sunday, November 14 & 15 Rooms B106, B108, B110, & Awaken Plaza
VPC’s Women’s Circles is happy to host the event with unique hand-crafted items, tasty treats, and interesting trinkets—they make great holiday gifts! Curated by Bridges Reentry, which provides platforms for incarcerated & formerly incarcerated individuals to express themselves through art, be seen, and connect with the community.
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Preventing Hunger & Homeless Families Community House
Meal service for our unhoused neighbors Monday, September 14, October 12, November 9 & December 14, 4:30-6:30PM Scottsdale Congregational United Church of Christ Each month VPC provides a meal that we share with our unhoused neighbors in the community with Community House.
Nourish Phoenix
Food Drive: October 25-November 15 We will collect supplies to support food insecure families. Lists of needed items will be available in the church office and outside the Sanctuary.
Family Promise of Greater Phoenix
Host Family Promise Families Sunday, December 13-Sunday, December 20, VPC Campus Family Promise partners with VPC to provide safe overnight shelter, food, and compassion to families in crisis.
Global & Tribal Mission partners Ministry of Hope, Malawi, Africa
ministryofhope.org In 1999 Malawians established the Ministry of Hope (MOH) as a local, community-based response to meet physical and spiritual needs of orphaned and vulnerable children. Using crisis nurseries, community centers, scholarships, and mobile medical clinic programs, MOH provides care for those who would not otherwise receive it. VPC has provided support to thousands of orphaned children and widows since MOH opened in 1999.
Villages in Partnership Malawi, Africa
villagesinpartnership.org Villages in Partnership is a community of people and organizations devoted to sharing God’s love and blessings with the poorest of the poor in the impoverished nation of Malawi, Africa. VPC’s work with Villages in Partnership has blessed many lives, and we are excited to be involved with the construction and opening of the One Heart Secondary School in Malawi. We are thankful for the time spent and efforts to all involved.
First Presbyterian Church Tuba City, Navajo Nation
PO Box 368, Tuba City, AZ 86045-0368 The Native American Ministry provides the opportunity to connect with our brothers and sisters in Christ on the Navajo Reservation. Together we build relationships and understanding.
Monday-Friday 8AM-2PM
Sunday
8AM-Noon
IG: @awakencafe.az
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Community Groups vpc.church/community groups
College Age
Contact: Tori Makk, torimakk@gmail.com
We are excited to come alongside college students (near or far) as you continue your faith journey. Be on the lookout for possible inperson gatherings to hang out and spend time together.
College Age Bible Study
Thursdays, 7PM, Awaken Café Questions? Call or text Tori: 575-556-4605
Voyagers
Contact: Cheryl Shaff, cherylshaff@gmail.com Active since the 1980’s, members are 60 years and up, some working and some retired. Married couples, singles, and visitors are welcome. We support each other and use our resources to assist local charities.
FIRST FRIDAY EVENTS 5PM, RSVP for location
America’s Sesquicentennial Celebration narrated by Andy Stanley September 4
God’s Promise to those who are Grieving with Janel Willert October 2
Hope video by Billy Graham on Psalm 24:7 November 6
Christmas Potluck & Fellowship December 4
Young Adults
Young Families
Contact: Mike Roth, miker@vpc.church
Contact: Chris Woodard, chrisw@vpc.church
Join other young professionals for good food, real connection, and the journey of following Jesus together. We know it is a challenge to grow an authentic faith while navigating that world today—our hope is that this group is a place where you can find inspiration and motivation.
Welcome to families with young kids! We know that when you have small kids, they drive your schedule. That’s why we want this group to be a convenient place to connect.
Sunday Evening Group
Sundays, 5:30PM, Awaken Café Questions? Email Mike: miker@vpc.church We are excited to study the Gospel of John together this semester!
Learn Together
Learn about Oasis on page seven Learn about OasisKids! & OasisMinis on page eight Join us at Oasis Community Wednesday-have dinner on the plaza and take your kids to their activities before class. You can also join a Micro Group and walk with others through God’s Word.
Serve Together
Serve Family Promise families Wednesday, December 16, 5:30PM, Landes Center VPC hosts Family Promise in December, we will have an opportunity to serve during those weeks.
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Micro groups are a way to invest in your life and the lives of others: • • • •
It’s like Bible Book Club Read, discuss, ask questions together 3-4 people, 2-3 times per month Grab 2-3 friends or let us know
Boomers
Contact: Sarah Burnette sarahswiggins@gmail.com
Join our email and invitation list! Join us for refreshments, fellowship, Bible study, and fun. All are welcome.
BOOMER SUNDAY CLASSES
Coffee & Fellowship: 10-10:30AM, Class: 10:30-11:30AM Room C204
Welcome Back Potluck
September 27 Bring a dish and share your summer hiatus adventures.
The Book of Acts: Chapters 9-12 With Wally Larson, Jr.
October 4-25 Chapters 9-12 cover a major turning point in the early church, including the conversion of Saul, the opening of the gospel to non-Jewish people (Gentiles) and the expansion of the church beyond Jerusalem into the wider Roman world. Wally Larson, Jr. is an attorney whose core area is the rules and laws governing lawyers. A Phoenix native, he lived and worked in New York City for 25 years, where he had the privilege to serve alongside the late Reverend Dr. Timothy Keller as Elder at Redeemer Presbyterian Church. Wally moved back to Phoenix in 2021 and works remotely for his firm. He enjoys reading history, theology, and teaching God’s Word.
Max Lucado’s Tame Your Thoughts With Janel Willert
November 1-22 You are what you think, but not all thoughts are good ones. This book presents three thought management tools to rid yourself of anxiety and replace it with God’s peace. This interesting class applies neuroscience to Biblical principles. Janel has served a VPC Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister. A former television broadcast journalist, corporate trainer, and stockbroker, she co-taught the Spiritual Gifts class for two years and led her popular Classic Film Classes.
BOOMER SOCIAL EVENTS Christmas Open House & Potluck
Saturday, December 5, 2-5PM, Jerry & Sarah Burnette’s House Bring a holiday dish to share and be ready to sing some Carols!
Learn More & sign up today:
vpc.church/microgroups 17
Community Groups vpc.church/community groups
Kaleidoscope
Contact: Ed Glady, beglady@outlook.com Kaleidoscope is a Christian community that embraces and encourages each other as we follow Christ on the path He sets before us. Our weekly email summarizes classes, gives updates about other opportunities at VPC, gives space for prayers, and provides a gentle thought for the week.
KALEIDOSCOPE SUNDAY CLASSES
KALEIDOSCOPE COMMUNITY EVENTS
Does God Select or Do Humans Elect? With Wally Larson, Jr.
Nice to Meet You, Claude!
9AM, Room B106
September 13-27 & November 1-22 (no class November 8) The great Reformed theologians agree on numerous principles, but one great dividing point persists: does God select those who come to faith (predestination) or does God give us complete freedom to accept or reject Him (free will). With Biblical text to back both views, this seemingly simple yet deep and complex issue often gets overlooked in modern Presbyterian churches. This six-week course delves into this fascinating topic that goes to the heart of the nature of God and His relationship to us. Wally Larson, Jr. is an attorney whose core area is the rules and laws governing lawyers. A Phoenix native, he lived and worked in New York City for 25 years, where he had the privilege to serve alongside the late Reverend Dr. Timothy Keller as Elder at Redeemer Presbyterian Church. Wally moved back to Phoenix in 2021 and works remotely for his firm. He enjoys reading history, theology, and teaching God’s Word.
C.S. Lewis’s The Great Divorce
October 4-25 A strange bus ride from a gloomy, rainy town. A place of unimaginable light and beauty. A place where people are offered the chance to stay. These settings provide the narrative engine for C.S. Lewis’s brilliant imagination to help us understand the demarcation between Heaven and hell. Lewis imagines a hell that is not a place of fire and pitchforks, but a place of eternal gloom. Meanwhile Heaven is depicted not as a locale in the clouds, but a place of ultimate reality. Told with humor and insight, this short book helps us see ourselves as who we are to God.
Advent Study: Joy to the World!
November 29-December 20 In “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas,” the Grinch is shocked when he sees the town of Whoville turn out to sing joyfully on Christmas morning despite his theft of all their presents. He soon realizes that Christmas joy is more than decorations, trees, gifts, or food. Do we have that same understanding? Would we be joyful on Christmas Day if deprived of the holiday “experience” we have come to know and love? Our joy doesn’t stop when the decorations come down but shapes our worldview for the remainder of our lives both in times of happiness and sorrow.
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RSVP to Ed Glady at beglady@outlook.com
Saturday, October 17, 8AM-Noon, Room B106 RSVP: Ed Glady, beglady@outlook.com Large Language Models (commonly referred to as Artificial Intelligence or “AI”) are everywhere. To some it is a godsend; to others a curse that promises disaster. But what is AI and to what uses can it be put? Can AI improve Biblical understanding or assist with a more disciplined Christian life? What pitfalls and traps lie in the use of AI? We’ll have an AI expert to teach and guide our questions and discussions about the use and misuse of AI. Breakfast will be served, and coffee and other beverages available from the Awaken Café. This class is for beginners; don’t worry if you know little about AI! Feel free to invite family, friends, and neighbors!
Kaleidoscope Goes Curling!
Saturday, November 7, 2:30-5PM Coyote Curling Club, 2202 W Medtronic Way #101, Tempe Cost: $40 (assistance available) RSVP: Ed Glady, beglady@outlook.com During the last Winter Olympics interest in curling skyrocketed. While it seems a strange thing to have in the desert, lessons are offered in the Valley! No special equipment needed, but dress warm-temperature on the ice is around 37 degrees. Join us after for a meal and brag about how good we are after only one lesson!
Christmas Open House
Saturday, December 12, 10AM-1PM, Beth & Ed Glady’s Home Come when you can, leave when you must at this relaxed time of fellowship, food, and fun! We’ll soak up the sights and the sounds of the season with one another, sharing the warmth of Christmas. Brunch offerings will be available throughout, with plenty of hot cocoa and cider to warm your hearts and your tummies.
KALEIDOSCOPE SERVICE Feed My Starving Children
Saturday, September 26, 6:45PM, FMSC, 1100 W. Grove Parkway, Tempe Dinner before, 5PM, Red Robin 1375 E. Elliot Rd., Tempe RSVP: Ed Glady, beglady@outlook.com Share a meal then join us for a two-hour shift assembling meals for people experiencing hunger worldwide. No experience necessary, open to kids age five and up.
Open Door vpc.church/opendoor
VPC’s community extends far beyond the walls of the church! When we enjoy life together new friendships are built and existing ones are strengthened. Open Door connects people in a relaxed social atmosphere, where we have the time and ability to get to know each other better. Details and RSVP for each event will go up a month prior to the event date. Want to host an Open Door event? Email Sarah Brammer: smurley47@hotmail.com.
Open Door at the Will’s
Sunday, September 27 4-6PM, Kristen & Tony Will’s Home Join the Wills at their home for the first Open Door of the fall! This event is adult-only.
Open Door with VPC New Members
Sunday, November 15, 4-6PM Bill & Penne McKee’s Home This is a great opportunity to connect with new VPC members! If you’ve been a part of our community for years or weeks, come and spend some time with good people and good food. This event is family-friendly.
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Care & Help vpc.church/care
Classes & Events Anthony Bates Foundation Cardiac Screening Day
Sunday, September 13 9AM-3PM, Landes Center Cost: $35 (students/youth), $135 (adults) Register: vpc.church/screening The Anthony Bates Foundation (ABF) believes no parent should suffer the heartbreak of losing a child to an undiagnosed cardiac malady; they seek to eliminate preventable Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). The screening takes 30 minutes or less, and includes blood pressure, ECG/EKG, ultrasound/echo, and physician review. Children 10+ are eligible. If we reach 100 screenings VPC will receive an AED machine (valued at $3000)! Please register today!
All Saints Dove Tree Service of Remembrance
Sunday, November 1, Memorial Garden 10:15AM (following 9AM service) & 11:45AM (followng 10:30AM service) Each year we take time to honor those who have gone before us into the great communion of Saints. Worship on this Sunday will create space to recognize those we lost during the past year. After worship we invite you to join us as we use paper doves to signify our departed loved ones.
Night of Prayer & Musical Reflection
Wednesday, November 18 6PM, Chapel Gather with us in our beautiful chapel for an hour of prayer, music, and renewal.
Stephen Ministry Stephen Ministry: Faith Friends
Need someone to talk to? Please reach out: Pastor Chris Woodard: chrisw@vpc.church Penne McKee: pendlepenn@gmail.com VPC Stephen Ministers are trained congregation members who provide one-on-one confidential care and support to those experiencing a difficult time in life, such as grief, divorce, job loss, chronic or terminal illness, or relocation. Our team members come from diverse backgrounds but share a common passion for bringing Christ’s love and care to people during a time of need. Many in our congregation have enjoyed the friendship of a Stephen Minister at some point in their life. Their services are free and always kept confidential.
What in the World is Stephen Ministry?
Part of Oasis Community Wednesdays Wednesday, November 4, 6-7PM, Room B106 Sign up today: vpc.church/oasis Get a glimpse of how Stephen Ministry prepares their Care Givers to be Faith Friends. Join us for this overview to hear about key concepts taught in Stephen Ministry training that help hone your caring skills: maintaining boundaries, discerning feelings, listening with purpose, confidentiality, and more. These skills help you be a better partner, parent, coworker, and friend. If this workshop resonates with you, then becoming a Stephen Minister is available. Training classes are being scheduled for early 2027.
Ongoing Groups Alcoholics Anonymous
Fridays, 7:30-9PM, Landes Center, aaphoenix.org Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other. The only requirement for AA membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees; it is funded through contributions. AA is non-professional, self-supporting, multiracial, apolitical, does not engage in controversies, and neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Their primary purpose is to stay sober and to help other alcoholics achieve sobriety.
Pickleball Drop-In Play
Every Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday (No Class September 7, November 26, & December 28) 4:30-6:30PM, Landes Center Join VPC and neighborhood community for some fun! Pickleball is a paddle sport that has taken the world by storm! Rules are simple and the game is easy for players of all skill levels.
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Deacons
Contact: Tammy Gallagher, tammyg@vpc.church If you have a servant’s heart and are looking for an opportunity to spread God’s love, Deacon Ministry is the place for you! Our Deacons provide vital services to VPC members and our community. We are in need of additional volunteers to help our ordained Deacon team members: Lay Hospital Chaplains: for hospital and rehab center visits Memorial Receptions: to host on-campus events for our grieving families following a memorial Communion Preparation: to prepare the elements for Communion once a month Flower Ministry: to deliver flowers from worship to our At-Home friends or to donate flowers Tasty Spoon: to prepare and deliver home-cooked meals to those released from hospital Health & Wellness: for Anthony Bates Foundation Cardiac Screening Event assistance
Mental Health
Contact: Elizabeth Weiss esweiss1231@gmail.com, 713-203-5544 Mental Health 24-hour Crisis Line 602-222-9444
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health) Support Groups namivalleyofthesun.org/support-groups
NAMI Classes
namivalleyofthesun.org/classes
Grace Alliance Support Groups
mentalhealthgracealliance.org/grace-group-locations
Interfaith & Community Leader Breakfast
Thursday, October 1, 7:30-10:30AM Fenlon Hospitality Center, St. Patrick Catholic Community Register: Carol LoPorto, cloporto@stpatcc.org
World Mental Health Day
Saturday, October 10 This is a good day to talk about mental health—yours or a loved one! Talking is good for your mental health, and talking about mental health is important. But starting a conversation isn’t always easy. Feel free to email a Pastor if you’d like to talk to someone about how you’re feeling, or check-in with someone you care about.
988 LIFELINE If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or harming themselves, please call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988. Helpers at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline understand life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, their caring counselors are here for you.
You are not alone.
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Foundation Legacy @VPC vpc.church/vpf
The purpose of this Foundation is to do the long-term thinking and executing of plans for capital gifts that the congregation will need for the upkeep of VPC’s buildings and for the purposes of its life and mission in the decades and centuries ahead. We are a young church... but we must plan for the long future... This trust will produce income for our life as a congregation and for our support of the Mission of Christ throughout the world. —VPC Senior Pastor L. Wilson Kilgore, March 22, 1976
Celebrate 50 Years! Valley Presbyterian Foundation 50th Anniversary Celebration & Chapel Grand Opening
Legacy Society
Contact: Kris Bahr, krisb@vpc.church Leave your legacy at VPC
Sunday, October 25, 9 & 10:30AM Worship Chapel tours throughout the morning Since 1976, the Valley Presbyterian Foundation has provided steady and sound support to help VPC’s ministries succeed. Through substantial financial contributions, VPF has hosted concerts, sent students to camp, and provided collegiate and graduate scholarships. Through the Fund the Need initiative, VPF has addressed campus and facility needs and given vital support to the A New Heart for the Valley capital campaign and the Chapel Restoration Project. You’re invited to celebrate the legacy of this great organization and the gifts of hundreds of faithful servants across the decades.
Learn more: christianwill.org/vpc
The Valley Legacy Society helps provide a long-term foundation for VPC. Members are able to contribute to God’s work past their lifetimes by providing financial support for VPC’s ministries and programs. There are no start up or annual fees. Simply name Valley Presbyterian Foundation in your estate plan. A will or trust is the cornerstone of a well-organized estate plan, but it can also proclaim your faith, demonstrating your faithful stewardship to future generations. The Legacy Society currently has over 100 members across all ages and walks of life. There is no minimum (or maximum!) contribution necessary to become a member.
We do this together VPC is able to do God’s work because of you! Your generosity creates opportunities for kids to hear about Jesus, helps bring people out of homelessness, allows our buildings to be spaces of praise and celebration, and so much more.
Support what God is doing at VPC:
GIVE
SECURELY GIVE ONLINE: VPC.CHURCH/GIVE Set up easy and secure reoccurring giving!
TEXT-TO-GIVE: 480-372-8548
Text the amount of your donation (First-time users will be prompted to visit a secure URL)
VPC’S MOBILE APP
22 Takes you to VPC’s giving portal through the website
Scan & download today!
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Valley Presbyterian Church
6947 East McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253, 480-991-6424
vpc.church
Pastors: Chris D. Woodard, Tina J. Gilbreath
Facebook: facebook.com/valleypresbyterian
Instagram: ‘vpc.church’
YouTube: youtube.com/vpcchurch.com