SanTan Sun News: Spirituality - March 19, 2016

East Valley congregation hosts April events

Temple Havurat Emet, a small inclusive community dedicated to learning and prayer, will hold its next study session from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, April 1, in the Lecky Room of the Robson Library, 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes.

Rabbi Dr. Janet Madden will discuss “Jewish End of Life Practices” as she is a hospice rabbi-chaplain as well as a member of the Board of Rabbis’ Funeral Practices Committee. She has taught and presented on “Jewish End of Life Traditions” at synagogues and conferences.

Feel free to bring a snack or sandwich

and beverage to the study session. There will be a break afterward followed by a Shabbat service at 7:30 and then the Oneg.

Our community Passover Seder will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, April 23, in a private room at Chompie’s in Chandler. Cantor Dr. Nancy Cohen will conduct a fun seder with lots of singing, along with the feasting. Price is $32.95 plus tax for a fivecourse menu. For information, call Carol Sherter at (520) 423-9941.

The public is welcome to attend the monthly services and events and experience a family, home-like setting.

Dust off your boots to help Temple Emanuel

“Beer, Boots and Barbecue”—an evening of dinner, music and dancing— will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Saturday, April 9, at Temple Emanuel of Tempe.

The event, which is open to the community, will feature an array of items for bid in a silent auction. “Beer, Boots and Barbecue” is the annual fundraiser for Temple Emanuel, the largest Jewish congregation in the Southeast Valley with 460 member families.

Admission is $36 per person.

Babysitting will be provided for a charge. For those interested in attending, visit

www.emanueloftempe.org or call (480) 838-1414 to purchase tickets and sign up in advance for babysitting.

Temple Emanuel of Tempe is a vibrant Jewish community and Reform congregation that honors tradition since 1976. As the only Reform temple in the Southeast Valley, Temple Emanuel attracts members from all traditions who are looking for a welcoming and inclusive community in which to enhance their spiritual journey, raise a family, educate their children, and live a meaningful life as a Jew in Arizona.

Traditional Passover dinner available at Chompie’s in April

Chompie’s, Arizona’s New York Deli, celebrates Passover with a special dinein menu on April 22 and April 23. The dinner for $32.95 for adults and $14.95 for children includes soup, starter, a choice of traditional entrees, sides and dessert. Passover is the traditional eightday Jewish festival commemorating the emancipation of Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. Passover starts at sundown on Friday, April 22, and ends at sunset on Saturday, April 30.

Chompie’s Passover Dinner includes:

• Choice of housemade chopped liver or gefilte fish with beet horseradish

• Choice of chicken soup with matzo ball or sweet and sour cabbage

• Entrée choice of: half-roasted chicken

with savory Passover stuffing; braised brisket of beef with gravy; steelhead salmon filet; or roasted turkey breast with Passover stuffing gravy

• Potato latke with applesauce or roasted potatoes

• Glazed carrots or Old World Tzimmis

• Assortment of holiday cakes

Seating for Chompie’s Passover dinner is from 5 p.m. to close. Reservations are recommended. Chompie’s also offers a Passover to-go menu.

Among its four locations is 3481 W. Frye Rd., Chandler. Call (480) 3983008 for more information. For menus, location and hours, visit www.chompies. com or on Facebook at facebook.com/ Chompiesdeli.

Easter cantata at First Baptist Church of Sun Lakes

BY NORM NOBLE

The Sun Lakes Baptist Church Choir will present a musical that celebrates the most miraculous and life-changing event in history—the death and resurrection of our Savior during the 10 a.m. Sunday, March 20, service.

“To the Risen King” is not just a musical presentation, but also a guide for the choir and congregation to worship the risen Lord. The songs were

carefully selected and arranged for active participation by all who gather— from corporate expressions of praise to reflective songs of testimony. Composers Dennis and Nan Allen have woven together well-known hymns and gospel songs with Scriptural-based narratives designed for worship leader, choir, and congregation. Contact the church office at (480) 8951088 for more details.

Spiritual Reflections After Easter

BY DR. MARC DRAKE, SENIOR PASTOR, FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, SUN LAKES

“But the Word of God is not bound!” (2 Timothy 2:9). What powerful words from the first century that must never be forgotten here in the 21st century. The Apostle Paul wrote those words from a prison cell and it was part of a letter that was most likely his last one before facing a Roman executioner. Imagine! Bound by chains, facing imminent martyrdom, and yet declaring to Timothy (a young pastor), “These chains may stop me, but they can never stop the gospel.”

Paul was absolutely convinced that the message of the risen Christ preached to the nations could not be stopped. In the words of mission’s leader Tim Keesee, “The gospel is not bound by lines on a map.” Paul knew the power of God’s Word to cross those geographical boundaries (no matter how formidable), and thus he said, “Brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored.” (2 Thessalonians 3:1).

Yet, over the centuries, others have challenged and attacked God’s Word. For example, the French agnostic, Voltaire, declared in 1788 that in 100 years there would not be a Bible. Interestingly, 100 years later in 1888, Voltaire’s house was owned and used by the Geneva Bible Society to spread

the Word all across Europe. I love the divine sense of humor here! God always has the last word and, as Paul says, “The Word of God is not bound.”

Yes, we live in uncertain times. But we can face a changing culture in the strength of a changeless God. The words of the great British pastor, Charles Spurgeon, are as inspiring today as they were when he said them in the 19th century: “As for His failing of you, never dream of it—hate the thought of it. The God who has been sufficient until now should be trusted to the end.”

Do you have this unwavering confidence in God and His Word?

Millions of Christians celebrated Easter last month. But we celebrate it this month as well...and every month. This day...and every day. For we have a real Savior who came to a real place at a real point in time. So what happens after Easter? We keep proclaiming with the angel in Matthew 28:6, “He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said.” It is a timeless message backed by the authority and power of God Himself. Governments around the globe may seek to suppress the Scriptures and the truth of Christ’s death and bodily resurrection, but because of His victory the Word of God is not bound!

Spiritual Reflections

Share your spiritual reflections

The spiritual leaders of SanTan Sun-area 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. 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 those of the SanTan Sun News.

Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation announces Shabbat services

The Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation (SLJC) is an established reform congregation that meets at the Sun Lakes Chapel on the second Friday of the month.

Services are great opportunities to meet people, connect with Judaism and learn. New attendees are invited to be introduced at the service and members of the congregation connect with these attendees.

Oneg Shabbats are held immediately after the services at Sun Lakes Country Club. Everyone is invited to attend.

Upcoming Shabbat services are as follows:

• April 8: Yom Hashoah observance and Yom Ha’atzmaot and interfaith service, 7:30 p.m.

• May 13: Service honoring the men’s club

and the rabbi’s Bar Mitzvah year, 7:30 p.m.

• June 10: Annual healing service, 7:30 p.m.

• July 8: Twilight service, 5:30 p.m.

• Aug. 12: Twilight service, 5:30 p.m. SLJC is also sponsoring a contemporary Passover Seder on Saturday, April 23, the second night of the holiday. SLJC kicks off its adult education series at the chapel center. The classes, led by rabbi, are as follows. Participants can attend any or all of the sessions.

• 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 12: How to Change Your Life: A Study in Kabbalah and Meditation

• 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 3: Grief and Loss: How to Deal with Disappointments and Tragedies

For more information, visit www.SLJC.org.

Armand and Angelina to visit

Unity of Sun Lakes

Armand and Angelina are scheduled to deliver the morning message and music during the 9:30 a.m. Sunday, April 10, service at Unity of Sun Lakes.

This event is open to the community. Armand’s voice has been compared to Neil Diamond and Angelina’s to Sara Brightman. They deliver classical pop with a spiritual message. Prepare for a magical, inspirational experience of love and music. They use songs, stories and humor to inspire listeners to experience “Heaven on Earth.”

in appreciation. In the last 11 years, they have traveled more than 500,000 miles sharing their music at many Unity churches, active adult and assisted living communities, and RV resorts across America. Armand and Angelina reside in Orlando, Florida, and when not traveling they are avid Disney World fans. They have produced nine CDs.

WEDNESDAY



Armand and Angelina tour internationally performing their “World Rock Opera Overture,” a fusion of world, classical and popular influences designed to harmonize and unite humanity. They produce belly laughs and soul-touching tears, often bringing audiences to their feet

A Native American flute playing class will follow at 11 a.m. It’s not necessary to bring a flute; practice flutes and protective lip pieces available. Flutes are available for sale as well. Suggested flute class offering is $20.

This event is sponsored by Unity Church of Sun Lakes at Sun Lakes Country Club. To learn more visit www.armandandangelina. com.

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. SUNDAYS

Celebration Service

10:30 a.m. Sundays

All with peaceful beliefs are welcome to this inclusive, loving, thriving UNITY Community. Join the group at 10 a.m., preceding the service, for fellowship. Youth and toddlers meet during service. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline, Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798, www.interfaithcommunity.org

Kids’ Sunday School

10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Sundays

Unity of Chandler, 325 N. Austin Dr., Suite 4, Chandler. Info: (480) 792-1800, www. 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, www. unityofchandler.org

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church

7:30 a.m. traditional worship

9 a.m. traditional worship and choral music

11 a.m. contemporary worship with live Christian rock band

There is also a service at 12 p.m. Wednesdays.

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 901 W. Erie St., Chandler. Info: (480) 899-7386, www.saintmatthewschurch.org.

MONDAYS

The Art of Parenting

7:30 p.m. Mondays

Six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and presented by Rabbi Mendy Deitsch of Chabad of the East Valley, designed to help parents at all levels of Jewish knowledge develop their own parenting philosophies and techniques. Cost is $99. Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Dr., Chandler. Info: (480) 855-4333, rabbi@ chabadcenter.com

TUESDAYS

Silva Class and Meditation

6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays

Unity of Chandler, 325 N. Austin Dr., Suite 4, Chandler. Info: (480) 792-1800.

Career Connectors

9 a.m. to noon, fourth Tuesday of month

Nonprofit organization connecting professionals in career transition to high-quality resources and hiring companies; each event includes professional career speakers with presentations on relevant job search topics, three to four hiring companies, networking, resume help, career coaches, LinkedIn coaches and business portraits. Central Christian Church, Gilbert Campus/Student Center, 965 E. Germann Rd., Gilbert. Info: www. careerconnectors.org, (480) 442-5806

Christian Business Networking, Tri-City Chapter—Chandler, Tempe, Mesa 7:15 a.m. Tuesdays

Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals. Crackers and Co. Café, 535 W. Iron Ave., Mesa. Info: Maia, (480) 425-0624, www.christianbusinessnetworking.com

Christian Business Networking, Chandler Bi-Monthly Chapter 7:30 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays each month

Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals. Chandler Christian Church, Room C100, 1825 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler. Info: Maia, (480) 425-0624, www.christianbusinessnetworking.com

Grief Share

6:30 p.m. to 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) 9634127, www.htlutheran.com

HOPE—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 child care for children ages 10 and younger. Desert Springs Church, Room 106, 19620 S. McQueen Rd., Chandler. Info: hope4all@comcast.net, www. helpovercomingpainfulexperiences.org

Shalom Chapter of Hadassah 11:30 a.m. second Tuesday of each month

Iron Oaks (Oakwood) Clubhouse, 24218 S. Oakwood Blvd., Sun Lakes. Info: Cyril, (480) 802-0243; Kathy, (480) 895-5194; Shirley, (480) 883-9159; or Joyce, (480) 802-4902.

Monthly Women’s Fellowship

6:30 p.m. fourth Tuesday of each month

The monthly fellowship Bible study with 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

Narcotics Anonymous (Nar-Anon)— Chandler Chapter 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays Twelve-step program for families and friends of addicts. Faith Community Church, 1125 N. Dobson Rd., Chandler. Info: www.nar-anon.org

CONNECTIONS

FOURTH SUNDAY IN LENT March 6, 8:15 a.m. & 10 a.m.

“A Story to Ponder Again”

FIFTH SUNDAY IN LENT March 13, 8:15 a.m. & 10 a.m.

“Home is Not a Place”

PALM SUNDAY March 20, 8:15 a.m. & 10 a.m.

“Faces Along the Road”

MAUNDY THURSDAY March 24, 6:30 p.m. with Communion

“How Are You Clothed?”

GOOD FRIDAY March 25, 6:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary

“Here on the Cross” - Special Choir Presentation

EASTER EVE March 26, 4:00 p.m. in the Chapel

“The Necessity of Easter”

EASTER SUNDAY March 27, 6:30 a.m., 8:15 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.

“The Necessity of Easter”

WEDNESDAYS

Pranic Healing

7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Wednesday

Receive a 15-minute energetic tune-up. Unity of Chandler, 325 N. Austin Dr., Suite 4, Chandler. Info: (480) 792-1800.

Gong Meditation and Yoga Nidra

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. third Wednesday

Presented by Will Zecco, gong master. Bring yoga mat, blanket and pillow as desired. Love offerings will be accepted. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 5938798 or www.interfaith-community.org.

“A Course in Miracles” with the Rev. Julianne Lewis

1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. Wednesdays

The weekly group is an interactive time of learning and sharing. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline, Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798, www.interfaith-community.org

The Art of Parenting

9:30 a.m. Wednesdays

Six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and presented by Rabbi Mendy Deitsch of Chabad of the East Valley, designed to help parents at all levels of Jewish knowledge develop parenting techniques. Cost is $99. Chandler Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler. Info: (480) 855-4333 or rabbi@chabadcenter. com

Pranic Healing and Meditation

7 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. Wednesdays

Guided meditation and healing for those facing physical, emotional, mental or spiritual issues in their lives. Love offering requested. Unity of Chandler, 325 N. Austin Dr., Chandler. Info: (480) 792-1800

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. Info: www. griefcareaz@gmail.com

Healing Prayer and Meditation Circle

7 to 8:15 p.m. Wednesdays

Guided prayer, affirmations and visualization for those facing physical, emotional, mental or spiritual issues in their lives. Love offering requested. Unity of Chandler, 325 N. Austin Dr., Chandler. Info: (480) 792-1800

Meditation Moments

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. third Wednesday of the month

An interactive time of learning and sharing, appropriate for course beginners, as well as long time students of ACIM. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline, Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798 or www.interfaithcommunity.org

Easter Sunday, March 27th

Easter Service