2014 Annual Report Condensed

2014 Annual Report Growing, Grounded, Grateful

Valley Presbyterian Church

Growing

11%

Woody Garvin’s Retirement Sunday

INCREASE IN WORSHIP ATTENDANCE OVER 2013

Grounded

87

CLASSES, RETREATS AND GROUPS FOR US TO GROW DEEPER IN OUR FAITH

Grateful

Bunny Business

2

$22k

END OF 2014 SURPLUS

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The ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus of Ephesus said, “Change is the only constant in life.” I’ve came to discover in 2014 his wisdom was a reflection of the human condition. Change is inevitable and often resisted because it’s difficult to see with certainty where it will lead. It’s in times of change I find myself drawn to the words of the Psalmist: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” (Psalm 119:105) It’s in times of change I realize my own insight for how to move forward is limited; the only place that I can go to find guidance is in prayer and God’s Word. It’s from this position I reflect on 2014.

Lives transformed, friendships made and excitement for serving Christ is evident.

Providing opportunities to grow as disciples of Jesus.

Robert Felix poured his heart and time into our students and, along with Heather Glady and our amazing volunteer staff, carried it forward during a search for the Director of Student Ministry. The search prayerfully led to Jordan Gustafson, who had proven leadership while serving with Young Life and a vision for Student Ministry. By late summer, a seamless transition was complete with the hiring of Jordan.

WEEKLY AT LIFE ACADEMY AND COMMUNITY GROUPS

Feeling God prompting her in a different and exciting direction, Leslie Woodard led the development of new ministries, a Women’s Ministry and a Prayer Ministry. She’s already launched the church wide “House of Prayer” initiative, integrating over 240 people in this prayer ministry.

Change has also impacted the ministries I’ve directly worked for. In September the Men’s Ministry held its first annual Men’s Retreat outside Sedona. More than 30 men attended. The weekend’s theme, “Stronger Together” was development with the desire to help men connect with each other. The music, teaching, time to relax was intentional, but “Stronger Together” took new meaning during our hike to Devil’s Arch.

Fifteen of the men encountered a deluge of rain and hail, forcing them to work together to forge dangerous flash flooded areas to safety. Those men experienced what it meant to be “Stronger Together” in the storm.

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2014 brought change and challenges for me as Valley Presbyterian Church transitioned from two Associate Pastors to one. It required delicate balance be maintained continuing with the Adult Education & Discipleship Ministry and new ministry with Congregational Care.

I’ve found so much of my time over the fall has focused on memorials, trying to encourage those families as best as possible. Through it all I have experienced the deepening bond with so many of the wonderful people at Valley Presbyterian Church.

Pastor David Turner

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Life Academy and Community Groups drew a record high of nearly 300 participants in October. Community Groups studied Tim Keller’s “The Reason for God” and John Ortberg’s “Who is this Man?”. While studies, socials and serving proved important, it’s how lives were touched through these Community Groups that were most important.

Community Groups made the difficult journey more manageable for one of our church family. Facing an uphill battle with cancer, she found encouragement, prayer, support, meals delivered and new friends. Life transformed.

2,196 ATTENDEES

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ATTENDED THE MEN’S RETREAT

30

CLASSES Men’s Breakfast had over 170 participants who listened to powerful testimonies by Henry Rojas, original Phoenix Suns mascot, Ted Barrett, MLB Umpire Crew Chief and former Senator Jon Kyl.

5 Adult Education

Local

Global

PRESENTS FOR

400

CHILDREN INVOLVED WITH OUR LOCAL MISSION PARTNERS

5,000

$9,000

Mission

TO FEED

IN PROJECTS TO ASSIST NAVAJO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DONATED OVER

150

PILLOWS & BLANKETS FOR THE WATKINS WOMEN’S SHELTER

POUNDS OF FOOD $12,000: MentorKids after school program

6

$15,000 2,500 4

2,000 pounds of food: Vista Del Camino

ORPHANS FOR

National

MONTHS IN MALAWI SUPPORTING

2

MISSIONARIES SUPPORTING

50

TUBA CITY CHILDREN PARTICIPATED IN VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

2

SEMINARIANS

7

185

CHILDREN ATTENDED VBS

Designed for families with a vision as a place where students, their families, teachers and volunteers can experience and share Christ’s love for us.

Designed for families to support parents as the spiritual leaders of their children through our Take It Home Events and FaithFUN events.

Designed for families to create an engaging atmosphere where students get a foundation for faith and respond to the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Designed for families to reach out to our community by coordinating fellowship events such as Bunny Business and Trunk or Treat.

Designed for families to give those with young children access to church programs and events.

Designed for families to support young moms through Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) and programs for their children (MOPPETS).

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125

REGISTERED IN SUNDAY SCHOOL

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Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.

-Matthew 19:14.

Children’s Education Ministry

100%

5TH GRADERS TRANSITIONED INTO STUDENT MINISTRY

EACH CHILD HEARS THE GOOD NEWS WEEKLY These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

-Deuteronomy 6:6-7

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Valley Presbyterian Church’s House of Prayer Our church community was invited to join a prayer movement called the House of Prayer.

Our dream is to have every member at VPC prayed for every day.

On November 16 those that accepted the invitation gathered in the Chapel and received the names of people within our congregation who they would be entrusted to pray over every day for a year. Beginning on November 17 the prayers began and have not stopped since.

We pray because we know that as we commit ourselves to communion with God, we trust the world will change, and our Heavenly Father will bring the Kingdom in us and around us.

We are a faith community that believes in the power of prayer.

Leslie Woodard

1,576 PEOPLE PRAYED FOR DAILY

Saying “thank you” doesn’t measure up to the amazing support and blessings I received through the Divorce Recovery Program. It’s been such a gift in my journey to wholeness and helped me lay down a good foundation for moving forward with my life.

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How does one recover from abandoning a 20 year marriage that had tentacles of substance and physical abuse, addiction and deep deception-all wrapped up in a wholesome looking exterior? I “stayed and prayed” for many years, but ultimately it was complete devastation which brought me to a higher, brighter, more fulfilling God-filled life.

PEOPLE VOLUNTEERED TO PRAY

48,856 PRAYERS PER MONTH

10 Prayer Ministry

Blessings of the Divorce Recovery Program

Peeling back the layers takes deep examination. I relied on Divorce Recovery group leaders, guest speakers and other participants to listen, learn, think and rebuild. It’s been two years of recovery and three full sessions. I recognize now that the simplest kind words, deeds or generous acts of others when I was at my lowest were all shining examples of God’s love for me. In my rock bottom moments – and there were many, I learned to embrace the surrender of trusting the Lord to find pure peace that only He can provide.

Divorce Recovery offered knowledge-based tools that I’m using in my “new toolbox.” I hope to be a light for others and an outstretched hand – just like I received and witnessed in the group.

Claudia Swartz, Former participant

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Divorce Recovery

5,200 $35,000

HOURS OF CARE FROM OVER 50 STEPHEN MINISTERS

TO THOSE WITH NEED FOR ONE-TIME CRITICAL EXPENSES

Congregational Care & Fellowship exists to fulfill our Biblical mandate to love one another.

Thank you to those that give so much to serve those who are lonely, who need understanding and who need care.

The greatest among you will be your servant.

-Matthew 23:11

36

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DEACONS SERVED IN 17 VITAL MINISTRIES FOR THOSE IN NEED

Congregational Care & Fellowship

Our Outreach Team is passionate about helping Valley Presbyterian Church share the transforming message of Jesus with our friends, family, neighbors and community. We reach and engage our community through our website, advertising, branding, social media, signage, and encouraging us all to invite people to join this loving, caring, Christ-centered community!

We are blessed to welcome new members to Valley, through our Inquirers’ Class. Last year 34 incredible people joined our church family. It is a special privilege and inspiration to get to know the amazing people God has called to our church.

It is a diverse group, and each of them brings a unique story that enriches us and makes creates a wonderful, vibrant community.

Our Outreach Team is called to work with our church, to grow and thrive in these exciting times as we attract more and more wonderful new people and families to follow Jesus with us here at Valley Presbyterian Church.

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Outreach

Worship’s goal is to attract those looking for meaningful worship experiences.

Whether in the Sanctuary with the wonderful Chapel Choir, in Landes Center with the high energy Praise Band or the sweeping arches of the Kilgore Chapel, we depend on the dedication of our volunteers, congregation and staff each and every Sunday morning.

203

NEW STUDENTS REACHED

67

ATTENDING GROUPS WEEKLY

50

LIVES IMPACTED ON SUMMER TRIPS

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This year at The Promised Rock Student Ministry was nothing short of incredible! This summer started my time here, taking students on a trip to Forest Home Camp in California.

God was incredibly present with us on our trips and lead to new relationships with Jesus.

The fall also saw new beginnings; we resumed The Gathering on Sunday mornings, started a new Junior High Youth Group on Monday nights and a new High School Youth Group on Wednesday nights.

Throughout the fall semester our numbers continued to grow and do not show any sign of stopping! In 2015 we pray to continue growing in our Junior High and High school ministries and expand to bring in College Students. Please be praying with us for God to move and be present in the lives of our students!

Thank you for all of your support and for welcoming me into our church family.

Jordan Gustafson

Promised Rock Student Ministry

2014 highlights include: Organ Lenten and Advent Series in Kilgore Chapel Rutter’s Requiem performed by the Chancel Choir and members of the Phoenix Symphony Food and blanket drives at Veterans Day Concert Featuring the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corp Concerts by Carolyn Eynon Singers and Sonoran Desert Chorale

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361

203

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AVERAGE 9 A.M. AVERAGE 8 A.M. SERVICE ATTENDANCE SERVICE ATTENDANCE AVERAGE 10:30 A.M. AVERAGE 11:30 A.M. SERVICE ATTENDANCE SERVICE ATTENDANCE

15 Worship

785

ENROLLED AND ATTENDED CLASSES

60%

NON MEMBERS OF VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

109 COURSES OFFERED ACROSS THREE TERMS

789 ATTENDED BREAKFAST SPEAKER SERIES

Encore University completes 2014 with much success and continues to be one of Valley’s most successful Outreach programs.

Our highly successful Breakfast Speaker Series included: Marshall Trimble, M. Zuhdi Jasser, Alexander B. White, MD, Justice Sandra Day O’ Connor, and Cindy McCain.

The sanctuary was filled for the Veteran’s Day concert which featured the Naval Academy Glee Club.

24 TRAVELED TO TURKEY 75 AT BACK TO SCHOOL KICKOFF

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100 VOLUNTEERS SERVE THE PROGRAM

Encore University

There is so much opportunity to share the love of Christ and Valley Presbyterian Church with others here at Encore University. Come grow with us!

Becky Bennett, Tracy Keller and Debbie Sayre

Enroll

Educate

Engage

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Presbyterian Women

44th Annual Cooks’ Tour: Hands Across the City, Arms Around the World

Enriching the lives of women in our congregation through small bible study groups, speakers, luncheons, trips and fellowship.

2014 welcomed 12 new Circle Leaders to the PW “Coordinating Team”. Six Circles meet monthly for fellowship and Bible study. We are so grateful to Jo Ann Jones who continues to give us a wonderful “Bible Study Briefing” prior to each month’s Circle meetings.

$40,000 RAISED TO ENRICH OUR COMMUNITY

Jeanne Campo, Moderator

79

$10,000

ACTIVE WOMEN

RAISED FOR SUNSHINE ACRES

A spiritual gift is given to each of us as a means of helping the entire church.

-1 Corinthians 12:7 A disciple’s walk is not complete without service; living out and sharing the Good news. Service is a way we grow in our relationships with God, show His love to others and model Jesus’ action.

800

AT THIS YEAR’S EVENT

Servant Ministry

Our goal is to equip members and attenders to use their gifts to serve the church.

The ministries of Valley are made possible by the hundreds of volunteers who serve each week.

God created each of us with unique talents and gifts. Our goal is to help you find a place to serve that fits your passions, talents, and calling.

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705

SPECIAL EVENT VOLUNTEERS

410

WEEKLY VOLUNTEERS

400

VOLUNTEERS PARTICIPATED

Hundreds of people came to our campus for Presbyterian Women’s major fundraiser. We have helped over 50 organizations (local, national and worldwide) with funding from this event.

Miriam Green outdid herself by creating three watchdogs from donated jewelry. White Elephant offered many bargains, and Kitchen Treasurers had homemade goodies including the ever-popular pickles. The Crafter’s handmade holiday gifts, Silent Auction and Tiffany West gave shoppers an opportunity to uncover some amazing treasures donated by our generous members.

The home tour was attended by well over 200 people, greeted by the homeowner, and told incredible stories about the artwork. Many blessings to all of our gracious and hardworking volunteers who are truly His Hands in the world.

Wandie Hulick and Sally Eskew, Co-Chairs

19 Cooks’ Tour

Valley Presbyterian Foundation has distributed over $2.3 million since inception in 1976.

Currently, the Foundation has net assets in excess of $4.5 million and actively supports the capital needs of Valley Church, Scholarships, Music & Arts Ministry, the Memorial Garden and various Mission trips to the many places God calls our members.

Valley Day School

With a strong emphasis on individual and church legacy, the Foundation is served by 12 Trustees who serve three-year terms. In the Foundation’s 38-year history, over 300 people have served as Trustees, helping the Foundation to be where it is today. By 2026 (its 50th Anniversary) the Foundation plans to increase the endowment to $8 million.

120

We can be proud of the Foundation and its investment in the bright future of Valley Presbyterian Church.

Eric Frazier, Treasurer

$13,725

$9,950 IN SCHOLARSHIPS

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LOVING, NURTURING QUALIFIED TEACHERS

Valley Day School has a very tight knit community; the majority of the staff had their The Day School has many family oriented children attend. We also have parents who activities throughout the year: attended the Day School when they were Family movie night, dad’s visiting day, little and now send their children! mother’s tea and open houses Julie Johnson, Director

Sports Ministry One of Valley Presbyterian Church’s many areas of community is our Sports Ministry program. With opportunities for men, women and children, Sports Ministry involves members of our congregation and members of the community. From Pickleball to Sportball to Line Dance, plus others, there is something for everyone.

TOWARD SPECIAL MUSIC EVENTS

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STUDENTS

Celebrating our 52nd year teaching the children of our church and community.

$10,800

FOR MEMORIAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE

Valley Presbyterian Foundation

Della Berg “We’ve had 468 people participating in Pickleball at the church. The core group has formed deep friendships with players coming regularly.

We care about their successes and their everyday life. Visiting players have taken part in our concerts, special events, and Encore University.

It is a great group of people with a strong bond. We are so fortunate that we get to have this special happening every Sunday, Monday and Thursday night.”

-Joan and Jack Thomas

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2014 Membership

AS OF JAN.1: GAINS: LOSSES: AS OF DEC. 31:

Statistics

BAPTISMS: WEDDINGS: BIRTH-5TH GRADE: GRADES 6-12:

1,583 34 123 1,494

Attendance

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11 7 169 163

WEEKLY AVG.: 645 VISITOR AVG.: 71 PALM SUNDAY: 851 EASTER: 1,869 CHRISTMAS EVE: 1,590 SUN. SCHOOL 0-5TH: 75 SUN. SCHOOL 6-12TH: 35 LIFE ACADEMY AVG.: 56 WEEKDAY 6-12TH: 37

Congregational Fact Sheet

Giving

AVERAGE PLEDGE: $3,720 TOTAL ACTUAL EXPENSE: $2,371,141 PROPERTY EXPENDITURE: $263,151

Benevolence Giving

VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: $137,167 PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN: $13,918 COOKS’ TOUR: $40,000 BENEVOLENCE RATIO: 8%23

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Giving Statistics

Dear Friends, You’ve reached the end of the report. You’ve digested statistics and figures, bar graphs and charts. You’ve looked at pictures and read stories. You’ve followed summaries of ministry efforts at VPC. Hopefully, you have sensed some of the wonderful ways God has been at work within and through the love and labor of our members in 2014. You’ve reached the end of the report. But you haven’t gotten to the end of the story.

I am excited about what God will do in 2015 in our church. There will be new prayer initiatives, new efforts in children’s music and ministry, new mission possibilities and maybe even a new music minister and a third pastoral colleague. (No pressure on the APNC!) There will also be great investment in all the wonderful existing ministries of care, outreach, worship, education, fellowship and peacemaking. There will be opportunities to wrestle with scripture and the will of our great God on issues of ordination, marriage and sexuality; becoming in the process a community which speaks the truth in love in the midst of differences.

My hope is that in all we do we will be the body of Christ. All of us were born in abject dependence on others to feed us, house us, teach us and help us develop our individual identities and values. We all struggled for independence, and our parents celebrated our capacity for it. But beyond dependence and independence, there is interdependence.

God’s vision for the church is one of an interdependent and unified group, in which diversity serves a common calling to live out the values of the Gospel and the virtues of Jesus under the direction of a single Spirit.

Paul’s magnificent 12th chapter of 1 Corinthians classically describes this dynamic common life. (1 Corinthians 12:1-30.)

Thank you for the magnificent welcome given to Julia and I since our arrival this fall, and may God bless us all in passionate, obedient ministry with his abiding love.

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Yours faithfully,

Endnote from Pastor David Joynt