The Olympic committee is debating whether to drop wrestling from the 2020 Olympic Games. I find this news disappointing. Because I am a wrestler.
I’m not talking about wearing a spandex singlet with special headgear while I maneuver my way around a 28-foot circle on a mat. I am not that wrestler.
When I was in high school, our wrestling team sent competitors to state every year. A common sight was members of the wrestling team running steps, working out in the weight room, or trying to make their weight class by losing any extra pounds in a zippered sweat bag. Wrestling, at our school, was a big deal.
Church benefit for art lovers
A match consisted of three twominute periods. At the start of the first period, the two competitors faced each other in a standing position. Each wrestler moved around the mat, sizing up his competition, looking for an opportunity to take control. After all the training, it came down to this. Standing.
Standing took a lot of energy. It was not a position of rest, but a position of strategy as each wrestler sought to gain control and maintain restraining power over his opponent. I am this wrestler. I wrestle with truths of our faith. Of suffering and sickness and tragedy and where is God in it all. I want easy answers, but I find that the longer I walk this faith journey, the more questions I have. Ephesians 6 says once we have
A benefit silent auction and art show for First United Methodist Foundation will be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Fri., March 14, at Zelma Basha Salmeri Art Gallery, 22402 S. Basha Rd., Chandler. Guests will view the largest private
done everything else in our slug-itout, fight-with-each-waking-breath faith journey, we are to stand.
“After you have done everything— stand” (verse 13).
To stand is not a position of rest. It is a position of strategy as I seek to gain control (of hope, trust, faith) and maintain restraining power over the opponent (discouragement, doubt, unbelief).
I am a wrestler. I have done everything. So...I stand.
Lynne Hartke blogs at lynnehartke. com. She is the wife of Pastor Kevin Hartke of Trinity Christian Fellowship, 50 S. McQueen Rd., Chandler. Kevin Hartke is also a city councilman. For more information, visit tcfchandler.org or call 480-963-7698.
collection of Western art in the United States while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and drinks.
Tickets are $65; transportation is an additional $10. Proceeds benefit the foundation, which includes scholarships,
Spiritual Reflections
Share your spiritual reflections... The spiritual leaders of SanTan Sunarea churches, temples, mosques and other religious and spiritual gathering places are invited to contribute their Spiritual Reflections in essay format by sending their thoughts, enlightening insights and other writings of a spiritual nature to news@santansun. com.
Be certain to put “Spiritual Reflections submission” in the subject line, and keep your articles around 200-300 words, or they may be edited for length. Include your first and last name, title and facility name, address, phone number and website.
Spiritual Reflections are printed on a space-available basis, and submission does not guarantee print. The opinions represented in this column are those of the author and not that of the SanTan Sun News.
missions and church programs. Tickets must be purchased by Mon., March 3, at the office at 5510 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call 602-263-5013.
Spirituality
Lecturer
to tell story of his ‘inner strength’
Guest lecturer Richard Bernstein will discuss “Overcoming Obstacles: Finding Your Inner Strength” at 7 p.m. Thu., Feb. 20, at Chabad of the East Valley, 875 N. McClintock Dr., Chandler.
Bernstein, a practicing lawyer and marathon runner who has been blind since birth, will offer an inspiring and motivating lecture. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Northwestern University School of Law. He is an attorney with The Sam Bernstein Law Firm in Farmington Hills, MI.
Bernstein is committed to taking action to help clients who need him. He successfully partnered with the U.S. Department of Justice to force the city of Detroit to fix broken wheelchair lifts on its buses.
In his free time, he is an avid runner, completing 17 marathons—including seven New York City marathons; the Ironman triathlon in Coeur d’Alene, ID, in 2008; and the Israman triathlon in Eilat, Israel, in 2011. He also co-hosts a one-hour legal radio show called “Fighting for Justice” with Pulitzer Prizewinner Angelo Henderson on WCHB-AM (1200) in Metro Detroit.
The lecture is open to the public. There is a $10 suggested donation; $180 for sponsors. For reservations, call 480-855-4333, visit chabadcenter.com or email rabbi@ chabadcenter.com.
Chandler resident shares story of overcoming abusive childhood
BY MEGHAN MCCOY
A Chandler resident who turned to the church at a young age for guidance to help her overcome an abusive childhood is sharing her experiences in a book to help others.
Kitty Chappell has released “Soaring Above the Ashes on the Wings of Forgiveness.”
“I was able to write it because I was able to overcome everything,” Chappell says. “I had no negative feelings.”
The book begins with a double funeral—her father, Clyde, and his second wife, Mary.
“I am sitting at the funeral and then flashing back to my earliest memories of my father’s brutality of when I was a toddler,” she explains.
Clyde threatened to murder Chappell and her two siblings if they tried to escape or seek help. Chappell, her siblings and young mother were able to escape with the help of their out-of-state relatives, which made her father furious. As a result, her father beat Chappell’s mother in the head with a claw hammer. Her mother survived. Clyde was found guilty and sentenced to three and a half years in prison for premeditated attempted murder.
Thirty years after Clyde was
released, he introduced his family to his second wife, Mary. She was eventually murdered by Clyde before he committed suicide.
“It ends up with the end of the flashback at the double funeral and how I was sitting there as an overcomer and not just a survivor who was shaking my fists mentally at a God in heaven and asking why,” she says.
Kitty Chappell.
Submitted photo
Chappell says everyone is created with the powerful gift of a choice.
“My father made the choice of wrong choices,” she explains. “I made the right choice at a dramatic turning point at my life at 14.”
Early ambition
Chappell wrote her first book at age of 8 or 9, and followed that with many published articles and stories. She became a speaker 30 years ago through Stonecroft Ministries, sharing with other women her life story.
Her speeches typically tell the story of her life before she had a spiritual experience, what encouraged her to reach out to God and how her life has changed. For a list of her upcoming appearances, visit kittychappell.com/?page_id=216.
“I have a story and I have a
message to tell and that’s what I do,” she says. “They are going to have something to take home and chew on, just as they do when they read my book.” Now her book is in the development stages of being turned into a film, “The Cry of the Daffodils.”
“It’s amazing the responses that I get from all over the world. It shows that there is such a need,” Chappell says. “My book differs from most books on the market because it is a book about overcoming, not just surviving. Everyone has been hurt by someone. Many people survive tragedies and difficult circumstances, but sadly never overcome their experiences. They just struggle through a dysfunctional life, daily reliving their pain within the framework of a victim mentality. They don’t know how to get rid of their bitterness and pain or even that they should.”
Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@santansun.com.
VUU
hits
right notes with world music concert at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 8
Multiethnic fusion ensemble band Traveler performs at 7:30 p.m. Sat., Feb. 8, at Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation (VUU), 5400 W. Del Rio St., Chandler, as part of the VUUSICA concert series.
The band borrows from a wide variety of traditional musical influences from throughout the world, including Middle Eastern, Greek, Gypsy, Indian and Celtic, using an array of exotic instruments. Advance tickets are $12 online at vuu.org or $15 at the door for adults, and $7 for students and children younger than 12.
To learn more, visit travelerworldfusion.com or call the VUU office at 480-899-4249.
Retreat focus on couple communication
VUU also hosts a two-day, nonfaithbased workshop focusing on relationship enrichment from 7 to 9 p.m. Fri., Feb. 28, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sat., March 1. Couples communication specialists Jeff and Renae Gallen will guide attendees in reaffirming the importance of their relationships in a relaxed, comfortable setting. Any committed couple is welcome, whether opposite gender, same gender, married or unmarried. Cost is $60 per couple, which includes workshop materials and lunch on Saturday and child care if needed. For more information, visit bettermarriages. org or vuu.org.
CCC offers fun, comfort
Chandler Christian Church hosts a number of upcoming camps and support groups for both youth and adults.
A Winter Camp for fourth- through sixth-grade students will be held Fri., Feb. 7, through Sun., Feb. 9, at UCYC in Prescott.
Upcoming Jeff Malone basketball camps and leagues at The Bridge include a fifth- to sixth-grade competitive league beginning March 1, a first- to sixth- grade spring break camp March 10 through 13, seventh- to ninth-grade spring break camps for boys and girls March 17 through
20 and men’s 18-plus league beginning April 9.
Those suffering from anxiety and/or panic attacks are invited to attend CCC’s Anxiety Support Group Mondays starting Feb. 3. Support and encouragement for those who have lost someone they love can be found at GriefShare beginning at 6:30 p.m. Wed., Feb. 5.
Chandler Christian Church is at 1825 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler. To learn more, visit chandlercc.org or call 480-963-3997.
SPIRITUAL CONNECTIONS
Call ahead to confirm information, as details occasionally change after print. If you have a recurring monthly support group or meeting you would like listed in Spiritual Connections, email complete details to News@SanTanSun.com.
Bible Study
Meets twice a month
Members of the Women’s Life group study the Bible and discuss how the lessons can relate to their lives.
Sun Lakes United Church Of Christ in Chandler
Info: Jan Olson at 480-802-7457 or Joy King 480-588-1882
Celebrate Recovery
6-8:30 p.m. Wednesdays
Join in fellowship and celebrate God’s healing power in our lives through the 12 steps and Eight Recovery Principles. The group addresses all types of habits, hurts and hang-ups. Dinner at 6 p.m. followed by meetings at 6:30 p.m. Free child care for children ages 12 and younger.
CrossRoads Nazarene Church, Ministry Center Rooms 101-103
2950 W. Ray Rd., Chandler Info: 480-722-0700, crnaz.com
Celebrate Recovery
6 p.m. Fridays
For those with chemical dependencies or other issues. Dinner followed by meetings at 7 p.m. Dinner: $3 adult, $1 child. Free child care for children ages 12 and younger.
Chandler Christian Church, Room B200
1825 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler Info: 480-963-3997, chandlercc.org
Christian Business Networking, TriCity Chapter – Chandler, Tempe, Mesa
7:15 a.m. Tuesdays
Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals.
Crackers & Co. Café 535 W. Iron Ave., Mesa Info: Maia, 480-425-0624, christianbusinessnetworking.com
Christian Business Networking, Chandler Bi-Monthly Chapter 7:30 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays of the month
Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals.
Chandler Christian Church, Room B202 1825 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler
Christian Business Networking, East Valley Chapter 7:30 a.m. Wednesdays
Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals.
Mission Church Seminar Room 4450 E. Elliot Rd., Gilbert Info: Maia, 480-425-0624, christianbusinessnetworking.com
East Valley JCC Parent & Child Playgroup
9:30-10:30 a.m. Fridays
Playgroup for parents with children ages 12 months to 2-1/2 years old. East Valley JCC 908 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler Info: Emily Malin, 480-897-0588, maline@evjcc.org
East Valley Jewish Couples Club
Offers once-a-month social activities such as dining, movies, plays, etc. for Jewish couples in the 45- to 65-yearold age range. Info: Melissa, 480-785-0744, beadlover@cox.net
Forever Marriage Ministries Marriage Restoration Support Group for Wives 7-9 p.m. Mondays
Support group for wives committed to their marriages. Offering hope, encouragement, biblical truths, fellowship and prayers to stand together for the restoration of marriage. Sozo Coffee House, private room 1982 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler Info: Lisa 602-377-8847, Marriage@ lisacmyers.com, lisacmyers.com, facebook.com/forevermarriages.
Grief Care
6:30 p.m. Wednesdays
A place to come share your feelings or just listen to others as we try to navigate through our grief. You don’t have to do it alone.
Epiphany Lutheran Church, south campus old church building 800 W. Ray Rd., Room 325, Chandler, a quarter mile south of Alma School
100 Years In Chandler
www.ChandlerMethodist.org
Worship..........................8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. SUNDAY SCHOOL
Children, Youth & Teens............8:40 a.m.
SUNDAY SCHOOL .........9:45 a.m. All Are Welcome.
Road on the north side of Ray Road. Info: griefcareaz@gmail.com
Grief Share
6:30–8:30 p.m. Tuesdays
A combination seminar and support group that meets weekly with people who understand because they have “been there” themselves. Fee for materials is $15, but scholarships are available.
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
739 W. Erie St., Chandler Info: 480-963-4127, htlutheran.com
H.O.P.E. – Help Overcoming Painful Experiences
7 p.m. Tuesdays
Free weekly small-group sessions helping people overcome emotional pain caused by divorce, grief, addictions and more; free childcare for children ages 10 and younger.
Iguana Mack’s 1371 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler RSVP: 480-802-9304, 480-655-8812
JumpStart
11:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturdays
JumpStart is a sidewalk Sunday school community outreach program serving “some of the poorest neighborhoods” in Chandler, offering snacks, games and teachings about Jesus to area children. Participants meet at Faith Family Church 11530 E. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler Info: Joanne Sweeney, 480-539-8933
Kid’s Sunday School 10-11 a.m. Sundays
Unity of Chandler 325 N. Austin Dr., Suite 4, Chandler Info: 480-792-1800, unityofchandler.org
Lift Your Spirit 10 a.m. Sundays
Hear inspirational messages and music. Unity of Chandler
325 N. Austin Dr., Suite 4, Chandler Info: 480-792-1800, unityofchandler. org
Moms in Prayer International
A group of mothers who meet one hour each week to intercede for their children and schools through prayer. Info: Liane Wright, 480-699-7887, www.momsinprayer.org
Monthly Women’s Fellowship 6:30 p.m. fourth Tuesday of each month
The monthly fellowship Bible study of the East Valley Chapter of Christian Women’s Devotional Alliance “ministers to women’s spiritual, emotional and physical needs.” Best Western-Mezona 250 W. Main St., Mesa Info: 480-232-3773
Whether you’d rate your marriage a two or a 10, this class will help you reconnect.
Chandler Christian Church 1825 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler Info and registration: chandlercc.org/ reengage
Rosary Prayer 3 p.m. second Friday of each month St. Steven’s Catholic Church 24827 S. Dobson Rd., Sun Lakes Info: 480-895-9266
Spiritual Chat
7-8 p.m. second Thursday of each month
Spiritual topics such as awareness, lucid dreaming, near-death experiences, out-of-body experiences, past lives, living gracefully, reincarnation, karma and divine guidance are discussed during Arizona Satsang Society’s Spiritual Chat sessions.
Unity Church of Divine Love 325 N. Austin Dr., Suite 4, Chandler Info: vizzit@hotmail.com, 877-3004949
Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday Hamilton High School Auditorium 3700 S. Arizona Ave. www.loc-az.org480-899-1400
National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) – Chandler Chapter 10 a.m.-noon first and third Wednesday of each month Faith-based “Caring Connection” for those who have loved ones with a mental illness, i.e., schizophrenia, depression, bipolar or anxiety disorder. Find support and share experiences with others.
Risen Savior Lutheran Church 23914 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler Info: Joan, 480-883-8871
Re|Engage Marriage Program 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays
WebXtra: For a complete list of Spiritual Connections, SanTan Sun area monthly support groups, study groups and spiritually stimulating meetings, visit SanTanSun.com and click on “Spirituality.”
Let the SanTan Sun News help you publicize your church or temple’s events and activities in the Spirituality section by emailing details to News@SanTanSun.com. Include a brief description of the event, times, days, dates, cost or free, if registration is required, venue, address, publishable phone number, website if applicable and contact information for verification purposes. We welcome photos, which must be 300 dpi JPEGs or taken on a digital camera on the “best” or “highest quality” setting. Information is due 10 days prior to publication date. Submission does not guarantee placement. Send us your church, temple events 19609 S. McQueen Rd. • Chandler, AZ 480-899-LIFE (5433) • 480-343-0022 www.gospel4life.org
