FOUNTAIN HILLS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

IN TOUCH
Fountain Hills, AZ
From Our Pastor BACK TO THE FUTURE -But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8 During my growing up years, my family spent 2 weeks every summer on a remote lake in the woods of Ontario, Canada. No roads. No electricity. No plumbing. Not much to do unless you were in or on the water. It was heaven! I learned how to do a lot of things during those weeks; but the one that has probably ingrained itself most deeply into my spirit was learning to row a boat. You see, rowing is a deeply counter-intuitive activity. You sit in the center of the boat with your back facing the front and your front facing the back. When you pull on the oars, the boat moves forward while you move backward. This means that your destination always remains unseen -- the line toward where youre heading is best marked by maintaining a watchful bearing on where youve already been. This is more art than science: skill is only acquired as time in practice develops trust in perception. It helped a lot to have my sister along in the boat to help guide me and to correct me when I (inevitably!) began to fall off course. I share this story because I find in it a paradigm for us in piloting our church into the future. Our surest way forward is found in looking backward. There was once a church where day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved (Acts 2:47). Could we possibly ask for a better landmark? Jump in the boat and join us in worship during September and October as we look Back to the Future with a sermon series inspired by the book of Acts. Grab an oar and give it all youve got as we make way toward our shared future. It will take all of us working together to hold the line. If you dont believe me, just ask my sister. Grace and Peace,

September 2012

NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED! The Bible From Scratch Beginning Sept. 12th on The Way Are you embarrassed by lack of biblical knowledge? Do you think everyone knows more about the foundational texts of our faith than you do? Well, weve got JUST WHAT YOU NEED!
Continued on page 7...

Sunday, September 23, 2012 : All Church Social and Hymn Sing More details to follow!

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

page 2

Focus on Finance
July Income July Expense $ 29,879 $ 37,991 Budget Budget $ 31,250 $ 33,509

Rev. Stan Jones

Parish Associate

Debby DeBernardi
Director Christian Formation

Marta Ludwig
Administrative Coordinator

Yr to date Income

$ 232,823

Budget Budget

$ 239,660 $ 240,137

Debbie Fisher
Director of Music Ministry

Yr to date Expense $ 241,266

Dorothy Parris
Pianist

Caryl Bates
Organist

Lynn Medley
Custodian

CHURCH TREASURER John Skewes CHURCH SESSION Class of 2012 John Brockelman Susan Phillips Terri Schmidt John Wyman Class of 2013 Susan Owens Jim Roy Donna Yordy Class of 2014 Gail Botsford Jerry Cain Carol Hencz Jerry Maples Letha Neely Trey Uphoff BOARD OF DEACONS Moderator: Ruby Pearson Class of 2012 Ben Fast Ruby Pearson Bev Watters Chris Young Class of 2013 Yvonne Ellingson Sandy Heunisch John Schopbach Donna Sims Class of 2014 Irene Cain Phyliss Kern Linda Maples ******
Rev. Glenn Atchinson Pastor Emeritus

We remain in the middle of our Summer Swoon with July 2012 Income slightly off expectations. To grasp the effect of the Swoon, from January through April we were $1,433 ahead of YTD Income targets. After May, June and July, we are now ($6,837) behind YTD Income, an unfavorable reversal of ($8,270). Keeping current with your Pledges will help us get back to Income budget levels. Expenses for the month of July and YTD were tracking nicely, until the air conditioning system serving the sanctuary failed, triggering an unwelcome $8,400 repair bill half paid in July with the balance due in August. (Please see Finance Committee Chair John Wymans comments on page 5 .) Overall we are behind where we would like to be, but with your support the 2012 Budget is still readily achievable. Respectfully, John Skewes, Treasurer

On the Inside:
From Our Pastor. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . . . .. . . . .. . . . .. . . . . Focus on Finance .. .. .. .. .. . .. . .. . Music ministry . .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . Mission Ministry . . . . . .. .. .. .. . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . Koffee Klatch News .. . . . . . . . . . .. .. . . . . .. . . . . Financial Committee News .. . . . . . .. .. . . . . . .. . . . Mens Bible Study .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. Presbyterian Women .. .. .. . .. . . . . .. . .. . . .. . . .. Membership News.. .. .. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Trendsetters Thank You.. .. .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. Trendsetters Annual Celebration . . .. . .. .. .. . . Youth Mission Trip .. .. .. .. . .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. . .... .. .. .. . Christian Formation . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .. .. . .. .. . . . . . . From the Director of Christian Formation .. . . . . . . . . . BLOG: Check it out! .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . Library Footnotes.. .. . .. . . . . . . CLAF NEWS.. . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mens Fellowship . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. . . . Need Accurate Addresses .. .. .. .. . .. . . .. .. . .. Spotlight...Did You Know? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... Necrology for 2012 .. .. . . .. .. . .. . .. . .. September Birthdays .. . . .. .. Mission Trip Tribute . . . .. .. . . . .. . .... . . . . ... .. .. . . . 1 2 3 4 5 5 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 16 17 17 18 19 19 20

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September 2012

Music Ministry
Sept. 6 "Celebration Singers" resume rehearsals. Sept. 20 "Celebration Ringers" resume rehearsals. Finally, it's time to start rehearsing the choir and the bells. I look forward to this season with great anticipation! The congregation also looks forward to hearing these fine groups participate in our worship service. Not a Sunday goes by that I don't receive a warm expression by a congregant complimenting these groups, and how thankful they are to see and hear them. Anyone thinking about joining us would be welcomed by those involved, as we share our love of music, given by God to enhance our experience as we worship together. Here are our rehearsal times; "Celebration Singers" Rehearsals start Thursday, Sept 6, from 7-8:30 in the Sanctuary. We'll begin singing in worship Sept. 16 "Celebration Ringers" Rehearsals start Thursday, Sept. 20, from 5:30 to 6:30 set-up, 5:15 Meeting in the Sanctuary "Celebration Youth" This newly formed childrens choir meets from 4:15-5:00 on Wednesdays, in the Sanctuary. We have been meeting through the summer having a great, energetic rehearsal. We will continue these rehearsals through the year. Any child up to 12 years of age may join in. "Committed" This musical group for Teens meets on Wednesdays from 5:00 to 6:00. Any musical teen wanting to join in is welcome. Bring your own instrument! "Pearwood Recorders" This Recorder Consort, Directed by Barbara Wyman, meets in the Sanctuary/ Thursdays 4-5pm. All of the groups mentioned above accept new members with musical talent, interest and desire. Contact me through the office or at home anytime if you need a bit of persuasion to join! Tuning @ Tahoe was wonderful! Staying at the Presbyterian Conference Center at Zephyr Point, having the opportunity to reunite with those whom I met before and meet a few more, including my mom who came down from her church in Idaho, making it 2 from Idaho, 2 from Az. and the other 45 from California. To meet and eat with the talented clinicians, hear all the amazing experiences, some new and some quite familiar was so gratifying. The impressive Ken Medema, a composer, worship leader, and truly inspiring soul who travels all over the world encouraging worship leaders through his music and improvisation of music behind the Word of God. Born blind, his heightened sensitivity to listening was amazing on it's own. The Grammy Award winning Charles Bruffy, Director of the Phoenix Bach Choir, the Kansas City Symphony Choir, and 2 other choirs, one being his hometown church choir, was amazing to spend time with, as he directed each phrase to bring it to it's purest form. Kathy Rundis, the top-notch vocal teacher who reminds us how important what we do, from the warm-ups to the shaping of vowels, and warm, free humor that encouraged us through the 13 hour days, from rehearsal to class to the sightreading of over 200 anthems. I was truly refreshed when I returned home to the 112 degree temperatures. Make sure to pop your head into the choir room to see the new space provided for shelving and closet space. Bob Lull and Dieter Ludwig have been working away that we might utilize the space better. The library files have been getting a good going over with Dorothy and I spending time numbering and listing anthems, joining the old with the new. The Pearwood Recorders have had their files sorted by Wendy Dachle and Kris Peluso. It appears "summer off" has been "summer on" for many! Much thanks to all the "Special Music" provided all summer long by so many favorite people. So many lovely comments made to the fact that it is a particularly nice element in our service, one I hope to continue throughout the year, enriching our time together in worship. What wonderful blessings our church experiences!

Deborah Fisher Director of Music Ministries "Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain" - Psalm 127:1

In Touch

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Mission Ministry
Extended Hands Food Bank Contributions The Extended Hands Food Bank is very appreciative of the food donations made by members of Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church. They have indicated that recently, since food costs have gone up, they are seeing a great increase in requests for food. Any non-perishable food items are accepted. At this time they have specified that they are in need of canned goods (especially tuna) and packaged pasta. Remember to bring your donations to church on the first Sunday of each month, or donations can be brought to the church office at any time. Thank you for your generous donations.

Mission Ministry Meeting

Our next meeting date will be Monday, September 10th at 3:00 pm in the conference room off the main office. Please consider joining our vibrant and compassionate group as we strive to help those around us in need. We welcome you, and are looking for those with energy, ideas, and leadership!

SEPTEMBER BEGINS COLLECTION TIME FOR HOLIDAY BOXES FOR THE TROOPS It wont be long, maybe within the next few weeks, before you will see out in the Narthex and in the Church Office, boxes of Christmas cards for you to sign with a little short note for our deployed troops. This year I am going to start the Signed Christmas Card Campaign a little earlier than last year and hopefully have it concluded by the end of October. Also in the month of October will be the time to load up on snacks because any earlier, items would become stale and tasteless. Hopefully another Sorting Day will be held in my garage by the end of October. Many thanks to Violet Wieder, Nancy Saine and Sandy Heunisch, who have helped sort, separate and count all items that had been donated up to that point in time. If all goes as I want it to, most of everything that needs to be done will be completed long before it did last year. Have been in contact with Dick Westphals grandson Michael who told me the good news of his promotion to Corporal. Congratulations to Michael and his family. We all look forward to Michaels safe return Stateside sometime within the next few weeks (I will have my camera with me this time). Enjoy a picture of Michael and fellow Marine in Afghanistan.

Every time I have been asked what is needed, it has always been something different than before. As of now, I usually have at least half of what is needed for the boxes but unfortunately, this year I do not have on hand a single sweatshirt. If any of you would care to donate a much needed sweatshirt, Sizes L, XL, XXL, in dark colors, it would be more than appreciated. Again, I want to thank all who have placed donations in the Troops Basket in the Narthex or who have dropped items off at the Church office to be picked up. And lastly and most important, please remember to keep all of our troops in your thoughts and prayers. Donna Sims, Deacon

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September 2012

Koffee Klatch
Koffee Klatch will be starting up again September 18th on Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. in the Adult Education Center. The first few gatherings we will focus on the theme: Have You Seen Jesus? We will be helping one another see him first as a man, a human like ourselves, not an icon to be worshiped, nor a theology to be affirmed. We will start where the disciples started with him, just watching him in action and listening to what he is saying, and ask ourselves: What is in the heart of this man? . . . What motivates him, sustains him, moves him to anger or to tears, etc. Have we really seen him? Are we moved by his very inwardness, his heart, his being? Thats what happened with the disciples. His humanity impacted their humanity, and lifted them way beyond their expectations. After 4-5 gatherings around the theme above, we will turn to a book study, either Philip Yanceys provocative book, What Good Is God?, or Philip Gulleys If The Church Were Christian. Come join us! We do these things together, and we share openly with one another. - Rev. Stan Jones

Finance Committee
AN OPPORTUNITY TO HELP --

The Tale of Our Dwindling Repair Budget. . . Boy-oh-boy! Its been a long, HOT, Summer in our Sanctuary. . . and for our Finance Committee as well! We began the season with an unpleasant odor and an even less pleasant expense a sewer line had ruptured in the middle of our back parking lot, necessitating $2,800 in repairs. Then one Sunday morning in July, the faithful who came to worship found themselves perspiring while they praised 2 of our 3 Sanctuary air -conditioning compressors had abandoned the cause, generating an $8,400 replacement bill.

Mens Thursday Morning Bible Study

MEN YOURE INVITED!!! All men, including your friends who may not be members of our FHPC Community, are cordially invited to join the small group of inquiring souls in Mens Bible Study. We meet at 7:00 a.m. in the Adult Center for an hour leaving you time for whatever activities you may have for the day. This fellowship and study will start again on Thursday, September 5. We will continue to meet each Thursday throughout the church year. Coffee and goodies will be available. Please join us as we explore the messages we find in the Bible and their implications for our lives in the world today. For more information contact John Bivens. jabivens@aol.com, or 480 -837-4857. - John Bivens

For some years now, we have carefully accumulated and stewarded a Contingency Fund for the sake of just such repairs. However, last year we put a significant dent in it when we repaved the parking lot. And while we cautiously retained funds for potential repairs in 2012, no one ever expected this expense to run anywhere near the $11,000+ we have actually encountered. We are confident that we can cover this shortfall by reducing or eliminating some of the services and programs contemplated by our 2012 budget. But, before we take such unhappy steps we thought we would give the members of our church family an opportunity to help. If you feel youd like to assist in meeting these unanticipated repair costs by contributing something over and above your much valued annual pledge, your generosity would bless us all. Please feel free to drop a check in the collection plate on Sundays, or at the church office during the week. If you would please indicate on the memo line: Contingency or Repairs, we will see that your contribution is credited to the proper account. Of course, your annual Contribution Statement will reflect this amount for tax purposes. Thanks so much for your consideration! Please contact one of us if you have any questions. Finance Committee

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In Touch

December 2011 page 6

Presbyterian Women
Presbyterian Women Coordinating Team for 2011-201 Moderator: Ilene Berg Mission Coordinator: Mary Alice Bivens Vice-Moderator (Program): Susan Lickman Historian: Barbara Oakeson Secretary: Linda Warren Membership/Yearbook Coordinator: Maria Berry Treasurer: Maria Berry Bible Study Coordinator: Evelyn Hrunek Publicity: Terry Martin

Summer Time Ministries

We're back well some of us never left and we are full of stories and tales to share with you. There are ten plus generous souls who braved the blessed heat this summer and ministered to our neighbors at Fountain View Village. Marty Baxter, Donna Yordy, Leanne Reynolds, Louise Jones, Barbara Wyman , Tom Martin, Bud Fuls and Carol Fuls developed a musical team representing our PW in outreach to our neighbors at Fountain View Village for Do You Know HYMN, History and Song Time. Stan Jones delivered communion services and Terry Martin, Margaret Beriko taught the The Face of God Bible study. Week after week a full house of memory challenged - octogenarians do not forget to show up for studies and singing. The group has been invited to remain through October.

If you feel you have something to contribute or know of someone who would benefit from this please contact us at the church office at 480-837-1763. Of course we welcome those from any age group who wish to contribute their time, ideas and talents. Even if you just wish to attend and listen join us we would welcome you! "They will still bear fruit in old age; they will stay fresh and green." (Psalm 92:14 NIV). For more information please contact Tom and Terry Martin at 480-322-1955

PW DOES IT AGAIN! The Weekender Bag

program, in cooperation with the Church of the Ascension, is one of the out- reach mission projects of FHPCs Presbyterian Women. This program involves the bagging of non - perishable foods, a $5.00 value per bag, which can be easily given to school children who other-wise would not have enough to eat over the weekend. This endeavor was begun by a young lady in Mesa after recognizing the need of kids participating the schools free breakfast and lunch program not having enough, or any, food to eat on weekends. The Arizona Brain Food is the recipient of food items which are stored in a donated warehouse awaiting the bagging. Each Thursday during the school year volunteers gather and sort, organize and bag items which are then delivered to participating schools. Of the 1200 or so bags packed each week, 50 are brought back to Fountain Hills where they are delivered to the appropriate schools. Those from FHPC who have participated have found it both fun and rewarding and we look forward to another year assisting this program. Anyone wishing to help in the bagging, startContinued on page 7...

Senior Outreach Ministry supported by the Presbyterian Women

OWLS stands for Older, Wiser, Loving Souls, and is the name of our Senior Outreach Ministry. The purpose of the ministry is to provide opportunities for fellowship, discipleship, and activities for seniors to the glory of God. It is a ministry for seniors living at Fountain View Village by seniors from FHPC. All OWLS join together twice a month for fellowship which could include a Bible study Hymn sing and history with a special scripture reading following the session. We value discipleship by having devotionals at activities, or studies when appropriate; all to Make Disciples that Make a Difference. We value each and every senior and opportunities are given for them to be teachers, mentors and to offer aid and encouragement as they assist in this ministry. We value your prayer for those involved in this ministry.

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The Weekender Bag continued from page 6 ing again the first Thursday in September, are welcomed; just contact PW member for further information on doing so. We are always in need of financial assistance for this project as well. Many thanks to those women who bagged last year with a special thanks to the men who willingly assisted! While the Weekender Bag program was suspended for the summer, children in need were able to receive food from our local Extended Hands Food Bank. Your continued donations throughout the summer were of great assistance to the needy families in our community. Thanks again and prayerfully we will see your face, hands, feet and spirit bagging for Weekender Bag ! CALL THE OFFICE ASAP!

September 2012
The Bible from Scratch continued from page 1

In 2 slender, easy-to-read volumes The Bible From Scratch provides a comprehensive introductory guide to both the Old & New Testaments of our Bible. Written by Don Griggs, it provides an ideal entry into biblical literacy. And now we are extremely pleased to add The Bible From Scratch to our Wednesday evening adult curriculum at FHPC. Using the Griggs books as background, experienced Bible teacher Carl Johnson will lead us in a multimedia exploration of the basic shape and substance of our Bible. Carl is a skilled communicator who holds an MBL (Masters in Biblical Leadership) from Phoenix Seminary. THIS IS THE CHANCE YOUVE BEEN WAITING FOR TO FIND YOUR WAY INTO THE BIBLE! Join us on The Way with The Bible From Scratch during 10 consecutive Wednesdays beginning Sept 12th. Dinner will be served from 5:45-6:30. Class runs from 6:30-7:30. Although the Griggs books are not required, copies will be available for purchase while supplies last from the church office or during Wednesday night activities. Questions? Spelling spree

will meet on Wednesday, Sept 19th at Jan Hoffs home (16540 E El Lago Blvd # 43) at 10 am. Well discuss our summer reading and activities. All women who enjoy reading are invited to attend. -Barb Wyman

HOOKED ON BOOKS

A kindergartner was practicing his spelling with magnetic letters on the refrigerator. Hed formed the words cat, dog, dad and mom for his family to see. One morning, the boy greeted his proud mother with arms outstretched. In his hands were three magnetic letters: G-O-D. Look what I spelled! he exclaimed. Thats wonderful! Mom said. Now go put them on the fridge so Dad can see them, too. Happily, she thought, That Christian education sure is having a great impact. Just then, a little voice called from the kitchen. Mom? How do you spell zilla?

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Outn AboutOut to Lunch

The first luncheon for this year will be on Wednesday, Sept. 19 at 12:00 noon at Eagle Mountain Country Club. As usual we will order off the menu and receive separate checks that include tip and tax. Rememberwe meet the third Wednesday of every month. Call Bobbie Dangremond for reservations at 816-6772. - Arlene Olsen

Celebrate grandparents
Several sociological factors are affecting grandparents role. Because families are spread our geographically, long-distance grandparenting is now common. On the other end of the spectrum, many grandparents are actually raising their grandchildren. Despite modern-day challenges and changes, grandparents are more important than ever for providing kids with a sense of history and heritage. Whether through social media and Skype or special outings and storytelling, the older generation has a variety of avenues for connecting with grandkids. In the process, grandparents can share their Christian faith. One generation will commend your works to another, they will tell of your mighty acts (Psalm 145:4, NIV). The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

In Touch
Membership
If youre not yet a member of our Fountain Hills Presbyterian church family, but have been attending for a while, we want you to know that we value each and every one of you and we are very happy to have you with us. Maybe you are interested in membership but are unsure how this works, this article will show you how. I will list several scenarios for you and maybe one of them will pertain to your situation: *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. An affiliate member is entitled to all of the rights and privileges of active members with the exception of the right to vote and hold office. We are planning our next new membership inquiry meeting on Tuesday, September 25 at 6:00 pm in the church narthex. The meeting lasts about one hour and if you choose to become a member, we would present you to Session and the congregation on Sunday, October 14. Please feel free to contact us, Susan Phillips, at 480-837-1225 or Gail Botsford at 412-613-3312 or call the church office at 480-837-1763.

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Not Yet A Member?

If you are interested in joining our church family, please see or call Susan Phillips at 480-837-1225 or Gail Botsford at 412-613-3312 or call the church office at 480-837-1763.

Elders, Susan Phillips and Gail Botsford

Cookbooks are available in the church office. A corrections page has been printed. Pick up your correction page on Sunday morning or in the church office during the week. Please pick up as many correction pages as cookbooks you have purchased.

A powerful weapon Satan dreads nothing but prayer. His one concern is to keep the saints from praying. He fears nothing from prayerless studies, prayerless work, prayerless religion. He laughs at our toil, he mocks our wisdom, but he trembles when we pray. - Samuel Chadwick
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FACEBOOK PAGE: Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church

Go to our website and click on Facebook on our home page. When you are there also click on the like it icon.

When you do that you will get news feeds directly from our site whenever anything new is added. It is just another way to stay connected.

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September 2012

Trendsetters Thank You

Our youth were deeply impacted by the work they did, and the fellowship they experienced at the mission trip to the Navajo Nation at Houck, AZ last month. Their faith came alive! Their love for one another, for the kids they interacted with, and for themselves, has left a lasting deposit of joy and confidence in them. By their own testimony to us it was so important to move beyond words about Christianity to a living experience of Christs ways. Much grace has come to them through beautiful works. Hurray for our leadership who opened up this opportunity for our youth, who then seized it. As I listened to them I thought, also, of how so many of you are supporting Trendsetters Clubs. You are making possible, thereby, similar experiences for fourth through sixth graders out in the community, many of whom will never have the golden opportunity of belonging to a church group such as ours. You are giving them the opportunity to make a difference in this hurting world, and to then experience the wonder of being not problems, but rather problem solvers. 150 of them gathered for their Annual Celebration last May at Banner Hospital, and shared their accomplishments with one another. That event is pictured on the next page. Heres a sketch of a few of their projects: (1) making and delivering lap robes to elderly shut-ins, (2) visiting, and addressing Christmas cards for the elderly who could not see to do it, (3) making and then delivering baby blankets for at risk babies, then discussing afterwards what at risk means, (4) sponsoring a school Carnival For Kids to earn money to dig a water well in a village in Africa, (5) organizing a campus cleanup the last hour of school on a Friday. They always journal reflections on their experiences. And they choose their own projects. There are now 7 Clubs, and our church provides the major support for four of them: Fountain Hills; Mandoza, Lindbergh and Eisenhower in at-risk areas of Mesa. A new club formed just this past year on the Gila Reservation! We were unable to find a date in May for them to come and thank you, so I am taking this opportunity to do so in this way, now. THANK YOU!!!!

Rev. Stan Jones

College Correspondence
Dear Dad, $chool i$ really great. Im making lot$ of friend$ and $tudying very hard. With all my $tuff, I $imply cant think of anything I need. $o if youd like, you can ju$t $end me a card, a$ Id love to hear from you. Love, Your $on ~~~~~~~~~~~ Reply: I kNOw that astroNOmy, ecoNOmics and oceaNOgraphy are eNOugh to keep even an hoNOr student busy. Do NOt forget that the pursuit of kNOwledge is a NOble task, and you can never study eNOugh. Dad
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In Touch In Touch

page 10 page 8

Trendsetters Annual Celebration

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September 2012

Youth Mission Trip

In Touch

page 12

Christian Formation
Mens Bible Study

Christian Formation
Now that school is back into the swing of things, and hopefully, the weather will start cooling down. We are anxious to begin our fall programming, and welcoming all of our people back to our fold. We have some new programs for the youth planned as well as starting up classes and gatherings that we have previously offered. If any of you are interested in helping or leading any of our programming, we would be excited in talking to you. You can contact me at 480-837-7083, Debby DeBernardi at 480-837-1763, or call Marta at 480-837-1763 and leave a message for Debby or myself to call you back.

The Mens Bible Study will begin again on September 6th at 7:00 am. This group of men meet in the Adult Education rooms. (The rooms below the Fellowship Hall) John Bivens leads the group through different books of the Bible, although the men take turns leading the discussions each week. If this sounds like something that would appeal to you, come and join them on Thursday mornings at 7:00 am.

on September 12th we will begin a 10 week study with Carl Johnson, a friend of Pastor Bill. He will lead us in a study called The Bible from Scratch. This will entail 5 weeks of study from the Old Testament and 5 weeks from the New Testament. So as you can see our Wednesday evenings are full and include all of the family. Be sure and come and join us on Wednesday evenings.

Sunday Morning Programming

It is finally here, Debby DeBernardi has set up programming on Sunday mornings after Fellowship for the little ones. This Sunday morning programming has a curriculum called Rio. This stands for Relational, Intentional, and Overflow. Relational and Intentional may be obvious, but the Overflow refers to sharing Gods truth out of the overflow of our own experience. This will reach the kids by sharing faith stories that these young people can relate to. This program is meant to not only teach elementary kids about God, but to create an environment for them to experience and listen to God as well before responding. If you feel you can spare some Sundays to co-mentor elementary kids, please contact Debby DeBernardi. We are looking for teams of two people so we can all join in on this joy of learning together with our elementary age kids. We are excited to watch this new phase of our church grow, so if you can help, we welcome your enthusiasm.

The Way
(Formerly Wednesday Evening Family Night) Come and join us on Wednesday evenings for a night for the family. We begin the evening with dinner beginning at 5:45 pm, where we eat together a meal that is provided at a small cost of $5.00 per adult. At 6:30 our classes begin, with the young people going to their respective classes with the Jr. High and Sr. High going to the Youth Center and where they split for their respective classes. The pre-K through 3rd grade and the 4th& 5th graders will meet before our dinner meal at 5:00 so they have plenty of time to get home and to bed. But they can possibly stay after dinner for more gatherings if they would like. This group of youngsters will have a curriculum called Tru Story. Some of them meet with Debbie Fisher at 4:15 pm for Celebration Youth singers practice. The Adults remain in the Fellowship Hall for their class and discussions. Were just finishing up a four -week study on the Book of Acts, which has a video dramatization by Dean Jones. This was a story of danger, struggle and triumph that marked the birth of the Christian Church, based on the book of Acts. Then beginning

Pastor Bills Bible Study

We are studying the book of John on Sunday mornings at 10:30. John is one of the Apostles that followed Jesus, and this is a most interesting study for many reasons. The book of John can be seen or interpreted on various levels. We are discussing and seeing some of these different stories if you will. For instance, did you know that John is the only Apostle to tell the story of the wedding that Jesus attended when he turned water into wine? The book of John was the last book, one of the Apostles wrote. These are just some of the interesting facts we are learning in these Sunday morning classes. This class helps us understand what the Bible is trying to tell us. We all get a chance to say what we are interpreting from the scriptures as well as ask questions on things we dont quite understand. Come join in on this wondrous adventure on Sunday mornings at 10:30, after Fellowship, in the Adult Education rooms.

Youth Mission Trip

The youth and the four adults who accompanied them have all arrived home safely as many of you can attest. From the stories I have heard and the pictures I have seen, I would say their mission was a huge success. Many of you came to Fellowship the last part of July and heard them recount their trip. Many of you who are lucky enough to
Continued on page 14...

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September 2012

From the Director of Christian Formation

Living the Mission Beyond the Navajo Trip
One of the most difficult things for a trip leader is to see and keep the momentum going after a mission trip for life change. The team plans to continue to meet together to apply lessons learned from the trip in everyday life. These post trip times will include a study and response to the last words Jesus said while on earth and their effects on His followers, both then and now. Our desire is to find our continued calling in life - a mission road that Jesus wants us to walk here in our own families, church and community. I can only imagine what Christ will do with a group who not only prepared and cleaned up after each meal, met with God for 45 minutes in a personal devotional time, accomplished several work projects in 4 half days, provided a VBS in the afternoons and ended each day participating in a team time Bible study that included reviewing the day and encouraging their teammates. It was incredible to see each teen lead student teams to accomplish projects like painting a couple of homes, laying a linoleum floor with base boards, designing and building a wood deck, lengthening a concrete ramp. The concrete was dedicated in remembrance of Chandler, a man who lived serving others. These students of service not only learned how to more effectively lead teams for greater efficiency and impact, but they brought individual personalities that made it fun! From learning to use power tools to cleaning up work sites and tools; they did it all to bring joy and the love of Christ to some Navajo families! My favorite part was witnessing how the Spirit of God used the Navajo kids and circumstances of the trip to challenge and unite our teens to a greater spiritual and leadership level. The teens represented Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church to change lives of many Navajo people and in the process of sharing Gods love, they too, were changed. Ask a teen about their experience and how they are continuing to stay in touch with God. Watch for how each teen will be taking on more leadership in our childrens and other church ministries. Pray for opportunities to reach out and serve our families and community. Thank you again for your generous support. You may not have gone, but you were a vital part of the mission with us!

Beginning September Agenda:

Childrens Ministry needs an identity and name. The focus is still shaping a life of faith through prayer, scripture, relationships, holy habits and other activities to promote openness and responsiveness to God. We will refer to our Childrens Ministry as KidFormations and offer a variety of relational ministries depending on age and time offered as follows:

KidFormations
Sunday mornings:
9:00- 10:00 am Blessed Beginnings is our nursery and preschool ministry-a relational ministry of teams of two adults to offer curriculum and the use of Brain Boxes for healthy spiritual and brain development. 9:00-10:00 am Family Wiggle Area is offered for families who would like to have their youngest infants preschoolers with them in worship, but who sometimes need a larger space to worship as they wiggle or need special attention. 10:30-11:30 am Sunday Elementary KidCommunity is where teams of two comprised of an adult and teen or two adults will offer a spiritually forming, God-centered time to equip kids to access Gods Word. The year will show how from Genesis to Revelation scriptures points us to the redeeming work of Jesus.

Wednesday evenings:
4:15- 4:45 pm - Celebration Youth Choir Rehearsals led by our famous Debbie Fisher. Kids preschoolpreteen are welcome! 4:45 5:45 pm - Elementary KidCommunity offers a new large group-small group participatory environment focusing on the Story of God. Families will be supported and equipped to be a main part of their childs Christian formation.

Youth Ministries
(Name to be Determined by Youth this Fall)

Sunday Mornings:
9:00-10:00 am Worship with faith family and/or Serve in a ministry 10:30 11:30 am - Teen Leadership in the Elementary KidCommunity and/or join the Adult Bible Study
Continued on page 14 ...

In Touch
From our Director of Christian Formation...continued Sunday Afternoons:
Miscellaneous Mission Team Meetings

page 14 From our Christian Formation Elder ...continued

talk to them individually have seen, as I have, how much this meant to each of them. It was such an exciting time in these young peoples lives and I can see how they have each grown from the experience. If you get the chance to sit down and talk to them one on one, you will be amazed. I am so glad we were able to help them with this growing experience. We will be anxiously thinking of moneymakers, so they can go out on mission again next year. As I again look over the last months and have seen what all has gone on, I am thrilled and amazed at how we have grown in the few years I have been an Elder here. It is so exciting to see another project get underway, and see how we can fill another void in our peoples growths. I thank all of you who have prayed so diligently for us and I ask that you continue to do so. We still have many kinks to work out, but with Gods help and all of your prayers, I see great things happening at Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church. May God Bless each and every one of you. Terri Schmidt Christian Formation Elder ~Laugh Loudly~Laugh Long~ Laugh Wholly

Every Other Tuesday Evenings:

7:00 8:00 pm - Venture Crew is a coed time for 14 and older in the educational building to plan trips led by Chuck Eberspacher (Began August 14)

Wednesday Evenings:
4:45 5:30 pm Committed Rehearsal and/or 4:45 5:45 pm Teen Leadership in Elementary KidCommunity 6:30 - 8:15 pm - Wednesday Night Live Teen Program (Began August 22) Begins with Finding God in Video Games to take the obsession with video games and on-line media to a discussion that moves beyond the debate of good or evil to ways the Spirit and the game may interact for a more informed sense of shaping the ethics, spirituality and theology of video games. So, where is God in the world of games? A study of Acts will follow this series.

KidFormations is forming teams of adults and teens In High Definition**!

In this 3-D digital world we really cant serve families or childrens formation with a one-dimensional view of and relationship with God. It is not our ministry to just teach Bible stories to kids but to also create environments where kids might encounter and respond to Gods Spirit. Knowledge is important, but it is not what will shape and transform lives to become like Christ. If you want kids to become comfortable with developing a relationship with God, learning to discern His voice and responding to Him at an early age for a life with God, please join a KidCommunity team to learn and be transformed together! Every gift and personality can find a space and pace in ministry with children and family. Whats yours? Contact Debby if she hasnt contacted you by email fhpc.debbyd@gmail.com or by calling 602-570-7340. Pray where God might want to connect your spiritual formation with others. ** We now have HD 3-D TV screens in both Youth Center and Education Building. Come and check them out!

The Navajo kids loved their VBS leaders.

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September 2012
Greetings. This blog is an answer to a question. The more that we learn the more we should want to share. This blog is for the sharing of information to help with our journey / adventure towards a deeper understanding of our faith. You may also go online thru our website www.fhpresbyterian.info and click on the BLOG button and add your comments, as well as see what others are thinking. Check it out.

Life Savior- John 6: 16-21 A swimming lesson- for the spiritually inclined.
Many years ago, while visiting my sister in Cape May NJ, it was a blustery day; I headed out for a late afternoon walk on her beautiful beach. As I approached the water, I heard the frantic cry of children. Without fully considering the situation, I leaped into the water and, within a split second, found myself fty yards off shore caught in a riptide and staring into the desperate faces of two small boys and their frantic mother. Rip tides are strong currents that can be deadly if you do not know the simple rule for getting out of them. This by the way was a lesson from my earthly father many years earlier. Isnt that how life is? We go out for a quiet walk on lifes beautiful beach when disaster unexpectedly hits and we nd ourselves in a circumstantial riptide and drowning in lifes trouble. Like the riptide that allows you to escape by simply swimming parallel to the shore, there is a Life Savior always available to save us from the perils of this world. Not only can Jesus throw us a life saver when we get in over our heads, He offers free spiritual swimming lessons that will help keep us out of trouble to begin with. He is a life saver and our Ultimate Life Savior. Although I no longer walk the beach nor can I swim parallel to anything, I still have HIM and I know He has me and I can sit on the beach because of His lessons. Peace John 6: 16-21

How to Dance in the Rain It was a busy morning, about 8:30, when an elderly gentleman in his 80's arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He said he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am. I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound. On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound. While taking care of his wound, I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry. The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife I inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease. As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now. I was surprised, and asked him, 'And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?' He smiled as he patted my hand and said, 'She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is.' I had to hold back tears as he left, I had goose bumps on my arm, and thought, 'That is the kind of love I want in my life.' True love is neither physical, nor romantic. True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.
The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have. 'Life isn't about how to survive the storm, but how to dance in the rain.'

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In Touch

August 2011 page 16

Library Footnotes
BOOK REVIEW Book Review: Traveling with Pomegranates: A Mother and Daughter Journey to the Scared Places of Greece, Turkey, and France by Sue Monk Kidd and Ann Kidd Taylor The key word for this book is journey. This is not a travelogue, even though many of the scared sights are written as a memoir. It is not a book, as some have critiqued, for feminist spirituality, although you will like this, or Mary worship. (A careful read shows Mary as an icon of devotion and a symbol of the divine feminine dimension of God to muse). The book is not heavy, but is not a light reading as a mother in mid-life and a daughter in her twenties each experience their own soul pilgrimage through introspection, attending to each other and use of the DemeterPersephone analogy. Their soul odysseys reveal critical, evocative questions and truths along each of their journeys. It is in the travels that the metamorphous of their souls into their new phase of life brought renewed energy, creativity, identity and calling. Mother finds the wisdom of womanhood and the daughter finds the beginning of womanhood. Together you will discover something much more! I read this book first as a spiritual director interested in how family dynamics can be impacted by the human and spiritual stages of life with the odysseys of the soul. On first reading I was fascinated by the evocative questions and introspection of all that was happening in each. The refreshing came with the emerging of each from their own personal darkness, fears, loss and doubts, as if in a cocoon or rebirthing, into new perspectives, clarity and purpose. For the daughter in facing her own darkness she sought a new sense of self growing into womanhood and a place in the world. For the mother in mid-life she sought the wisdom from womanhood, the acceptance of human limitations, and a new regenerative essence. Now, as a mother and grandmother in my fifties with a daughter in her twenties and another daughter with children, I was caught by the need to sojourn with them for the similar saga of Demeter and Persephone, the loss of one kind of mother-daughter relationship, the search for and discovery of a different relationship and the joy in discovering and returning to a new found relationship that redefines us all. If you are a mother, daughter or granddaughter over eighteen, this is a book you will enjoy reading together! If you have experienced dark nights of the soul and the journey to wakening, you, too, male or female, will gain nuggets along the way and a peak into the heart and mind of women in these critical times of life. Yes, it is all about process and joining the journey! As Richard Niebuhr, a theologian that Sue Monk Kidd quotes: Pilgrims are poets who create by taking journeys. She and her daughter did that inside out! Joining you on our spiritual and human journey! Debby DeBernardi

SAVE THE DATE January 20, 2013

GOT TALENT? READY TO SING, DANCE, ACT, WORK BACKSTAGE, PAINT, ORGANIZE? Plan on being part of the big all church talent show that will be held on January 20th. If you are interesting in being part of this big event please contact Barbara Wyman, chairman, or Donna Yordy soon. Get in on the act! Lets show all the talent and fun we can have here at FHPC. Hope to hear from you with your ideas. - Barb Wyman

Congregational Life and Fellowship

page 17

September 2012

Notes on Mens Fellowship

Most of you know Mens Fellowship meets on one Saturday of each month from September through May. Consistent with the new levels of energy across the whole spectrum of activities at our church, an ad hoc leadership team (Jerry Maples, John Bivens and Norm Collins) has planned a couple new and exciting meetings/ events for September and October to kick off the 2012-2013 season. Some specifics for these events are listed below. In addition, this ad hoc team will bring a proposal to the September meeting that covers the remaining seven months of the Season. Just so everyone knows, since its inception, Mens Fellowship has had a simple strategy; provide ways for males in our Church, regardless of age, to come together once each month to bond as members of our shared Christian Community. The simple goals were, and still are, to get to know one another better and to enjoy the experience. Examples of past events are: Breakfast meetings in our Fellowship Center with some simple form of entertainment lead by a volunteer from within our ranks Breakfast meetings with an invited speaker Continental breakfast followed by decorating the church campus for the Christmas Season Gala events like the Annual Sweethearts Brunch each February

The primary purpose of our September meeting will be to honor all members (youths and adults) of the FHPC Mission Team that recently travelled to the Navajo Reservation. This will include serving them a breakfast cooked by the Mens Fellowship followed by a brief ceremony. This event will start at 9:00 am on Saturday, September 15, in our Fellowship Center. The October meeting will consist of a cook-out at the McDowell Mountain Regional Park (located a few miles north of Fountain Hills). Reservations for a sheltered facility have been made for mid-day on Saturday, October 13, 2012. All you will have to do is bring an appetite and a desire to have a good time. Even better, bring those things and a male friend or neighbor as your guest. Mark your calendars now. prior to these events. Well provide more details

My church
My church is composed of people like me. We make it what it is. It will be friendly, if I am. Its pews will be filled, if I help fill them. It will do great work, if I work. It will make generous gifts to many causes, if I am a generous giver. It will bring other people into its worship and fellowship, if I bring them. My church will be a church of loyalty and love, of fearlessness and faith, and a church with a noble spirit, if I, who make it what it is, am filled with those things. Therefore, with the help of God, I shall dedicate myself to the task of being all the things that I want my church to be!
The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

Important information about addresses!

We are now mailing out the monthly newsletter to all members, affiliate members, friends and prospective members. It is very important that we have a correct address for you. It is especially important for those of us who have two addresses. Our computer program can maintain two addresses and if we know your months of residency here, the program knows which address to use for mailings. We mail out the newsletter in bulk mail. But if we have the wrong address, it gets returned to us and we are responsible for full postage for it and you miss out on the newsletter. Can you please help us and insure that we have the correct dates for your alternate address? Please call or email the church office with your information. 480-837-1763 or fhpc.marta@gmail.com. Thank you for your time and caring.

In Touch

page 18

Spotlight . Did you know?

John Brockelman, Elder of Building and Grounds, Director of Personnel, Chairman of Columbarium Trustees, member of Finance Committee. John Brockelman was born and raised in New Jersey. He boldly moved to Fountain Hills about 15 years ago at over 50 years of age with no job guarantees or prospects. He met his lovely wife, Jean when they both worked for a Real Estate Advisors company in New Jersey and have been married for 28 years. Johns first job was as manager of an employee cafeteria for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. His favorite job has been in Real Estate Sales Management because it provided him with an opportunity to work with people during what should be a happy time, buying a home and reaching that goal. When asked who his favorite musician was, he didnt look far. He praised Debbie Fisher as his favorite musician because she is guided by her faith to use her talent to glorify God. When asked about his favorite movie of all time, he responded, I dont go to very many movies, I cant remember the last one I went to. In answer to the question, have you ever done anything crazy, John responded, probably moving to Arizona at 50+ with no job. John has one sister. He is most proud of his son, Greg, who is a Golf Pro in Las Vegas. (This piece of information will probably get John many new would-be friends) and daughter, Karen, who is an assistant Professor at the University of South Carolina. He also has two beautiful granddaughters from Greg. His favorite foods are steak, lobster, Jersey Shore fish, Mexican and red wine. Tsk, tsk...no fruits and vegetables! John is also proud of joining this church and finally getting out of the back row after 10 years as well as being a part of the PNC (Pastors Nominating Committee) and working with those faithful and dedicated people to accomplish their task of seeing Gods will. The best advise he was ever given, was... pray. Having the opportunity to serve God through this church is an amazing journey. I pray I can follow Gods will and have a positive affect here. As much as I didnt want to do this interview, I believe it is a good idea. I pray that when you are asked to do it, you will.

Free Family Caregiver Workshops through the CarePRO Program Are you a family caregiver residing in Arizona and do you help care for someone with dementia or memory loss? Do you provide an average of four hours of care or supervision per day for that individual? Do you find caring for your loved one increasingly demanding of your time and energy? If so, CarePRO (Care Partners Reaching Out) may be able to help you. Through our free workshops, you will learn: About dementia and its impact How to manage your frustration, irritation, and stress How to communicate with your loved one How to take better care of your own health In addition, respite and transportation assistance may be available to help caregivers attend the workshops. Workshops are being planned for Payson in late summer/early fall. Seating is limited and a pre-registration process is required. For more information, please call Mindy at the Alzheimers Association Desert Southwest Chapter at 602-528-0545 x 210.

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September 2012 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 the diligent efforts of our deacons. Help us serve you by communicating your situation.

With deepest sympathy we list those members who have passed away in 2012. Don Gallentine Don Tepfer Marjorie Rennie Esther D. Wilson Peggy Johnson Bob Brown Dorothy Delahanty Chandler Roesch Eldon Schwieman Roy Wulfmeier Bill Martin

Labor Day reflections Labor Day brings to mind picnics, cookouts and family gatherings. Falling on the first Monday in September, it marks the unofficial end of summer and the beginning of a new school year. But the holiday was created in 1882 to honor the social and economic contributions of American workers. In a strong economy, its easy to take for granted the ability to work and be paid well. But times have changed during the past few years, with many people still struggling with unemployment and underemployment. During our holiday celebrations this year, lets give thanks for the jobs we have, pray for those who arent as fortunate and offer words of encouragement or help to someone who needs it.
The Newsletter Newsletter by Communication Resources, Inc

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

HAPPY SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS!

09/02 09/02 09/03 09/04 09/05 Peggy Linkin Linda Maples Marilyn Humes William Quigley Sylvester Taylor 09/07 09/09 09/09 09/10 Toni Patterson Paul Barker Bradley Kern Ron Henningson 09/13 09/16 09/19 09/20 09/24 Johanna Hissler Jerry Maples Ann Stavely Vivian Virden George Mortimer

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

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

If anyone is not getting our newsletter or Presb-E-News and would like to, please let the church office know at 480-837-1763.

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; Assistant Editor, Carol Hencz; Proof Reader, Helen Roesch; Staff Photographer: Gary Oakeson; Production and Circulation: Mary Wernecke, Bobbie Dangremond, Ruby Pearson, Arlene Olsen, Marilyn Humes, Nancy Saine, and Vivian Virden. Travel to Bulk Mail Post Office: Mary Martinson.

The youth dedicated the new ramp that they built while on their mission trip to the memory of Chandler.

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