A Word from the Adult Education Committee
Greetings friends and members of Pinnacle Presbyterian Church. We are excited to present to you the Adult Education schedule of classes for the 2008–2009 church year. Through surveys, meetings, and listening to the congregation, we have tried to put together a program that is practical to the needs of our life, yet also stretches us to think more deeply about our Christian journey and culture. Below is the mission statement of our educational program.
The mission of Pinnacle Presbyterian Adult Education is to:
• Assist and challenge adults to continue growing and living as disciples of Christ
• Provide opportunities for spiritual development and personal growth
• Respond to individual, family and congregational issues, needs and concerns
Encourage adults to identify, develop, and exercise their spiritual gifts.
All Adult Educational offerings will be integrated with the larger mission of the Church.
If you have questions please call Rev. Mac Schafer at 480.585.9448 ext. 205 or e–mail mschafer@pinnaclepres.org.
| Adult Education Committee | |
| Shelly Core, Chairperson | Lin Ogden |
| David Fitzgerald | Dave Ropp |
| Joann Holloway | Rev. Mac Schafer, Staff Liaison |
| Scott Jensen | Dave Schaller |
| Bill Kirk | |
Adult Sunday School
Beginning Sept. 28, at least one Adult Education Class will be offered each Sunday at 11:15 a.m. Here is the schedule at a glance. Please refer to the full descriptions for further information. We hope you will join us!
| Sept. 28 | Recap of PC (USA) General Assembly | Bill Noyes |
| Oct. 5 | The Koran | Alan Stone |
| Oct. 12 | Muslims in the West | Alan Stone |
| Oct. 19 | Women in Islam | Alan Stone |
| Oct. 26 | The Book of Revelation | Michael Hegeman |
| Oct. 28 | Brain Fun and Fitness Class | |
| Nov. 2 | Revelation (continued) | Michael Hegeman |
| Nov. 9 | Exploring Our Faith (continues each week) | Rod Houston |
| Nov. 9 | Revelation (continued) | Michael Hegeman |
| Nov. 16 | Teach for America - Pinnacle Theological Center | Andrea Stouder |
| Nov. 16 | Revelation (continued) | Michael Hegeman |
| Nov. 23 | Revelation (continued) | Michael Hegeman |
| Nov. 30 | Christianity 101 – God | Rev. Mac Schafer |
| Dec. 7 | Christianity 101 – Jesus | Rev. Kristin Willett |
| Dec. 7 | Parabola Discussion | Dave Ropp |
| Dec. 14 | Christianity 101 – Holy Spirit | Rev. Mac Schafer |
| Dec. 21 | Christianity 101 – The Bible | Rev. Fran Park |
| Jan. 4 | Gifts and Passions | Rod Houston |
| Jan. 11 | Gifts and Passions (continued) | Rod Houston |
| Jan. 18 | Gifts and Passions (continued) | Rod Houston |
| Jan. 25 | Gifts and Passions (continued) | Rod Houston |
| Feb. 1 | World Religions | Dave Ropp |
| Feb. 1 | The History of Pinnacle Presbyterian | Mary Ann Biermeier |
| Feb. 8 | World Religions (continued) | Dave Ropp |
| Feb. 8 | The Squeezed Generation | Rev. Fran Park |
| Feb. 15 | World Religions (continued) | Dave Ropp |
| Feb. 15 | The Squeezed Generation (continued) | Rev. Fran Park |
| Feb. 22 | World Religions (continued) | Dave Ropp |
| March 1 | Christianity 101 – Worship | Rev. Mac Schafer |
| March 8 | Christianity 101 – The Sacraments | Rev. Fran Park |
| March 15 | Christianity 101 – The Reformation | Rev. Kristin Willett |
| March 22 | Christianity 101 – Other Traditions | Rev. Mac Schafer |
| March 29 | Christianity 101 – Being Presbyterian | Rev. Fran Park |
| April 5 | Christianity 101 – Christian Calling | Rev. Kristin Willett |
Studies Throughout The Church Year
S.A.G.E. (Senior Adults Gaining Enrichment)
Taught by Rev. Fran Park
Wednesdays at Noon in the Chapel Conference Room, beginning Sept. 3
S.A.G.E. has completed its study of the Old Testament and now moves to the New Testament. We’ll begin with the Gospel of Matthew as we see how God comes among us in Jesus. Under the leadership of Fran Park this group enjoys study, fellowship, sharing, and a delicious lunch. All are welcome. Cost for the lunch is $5.
Men’s Fellowship Breakfast
Led by Rev. Fran Park
First and Third Thursdays of the month at 7:30 a.m. at Pinnacle Peak Country Club, beginning Sept. 4
Breakfast is served. $12 per person. No reservation is required. The group will typically focus on a book that raises everyday issues in light of the Christian faith. This is a great opportunity to meet other men in the church and share insights and fellowship.
The Parabola Discussion Group
Taught by Dave Ropp
Sept. 7, Dec. 7, March 8, and May 17 at 11:15 a.m. in the Chapel Conference Room
Parabola is a quarterly journal, one of the pioneering publications on the subject of myth and tradition. Every issue explores one of the facets of human existence from the point of view of a variety of the world's religious and spiritual traditions, through the prism of story and symbol, myth, ritual, and sacred teachings. Parabola offers contemporary essays and images as well as excerpts of wisdom from the great masters of years past. Past and present come together in the retellings of traditional religious, folk and fairy tales from cultures both familiar and obscure. Parabola holds that the questions are as fascinating and thought–provoking as the answers, and we seek to open and sustain discussion of the oldest questions of all. Join Dave Ropp for discussions on Parabola’s various articles and themes. If you have questions, call Dave at 480.585.0224 or email him at droppoff@att.net. Parabola is sold at better bookstores such as Barnes & Noble, Borders and Bookman or by subscription at www.parabola.org. Sign up for the Parabola discussions by sending Dave an e–mail or calling him at the number above.
Theology On Tap
Facilitated by Rev. Mac Schafer
Second and Fourth Tuesdays each month at 7 p.m. at O’Donaghue’s Irish Pub, beginning Sept. 9
A fellowship group for men in their 30s to 50s, he group socializes, discusses religious issues, theology, and various cultural issues. There’s nothing like a good pint and 'good craic' as they say in Ireland! For more information, e-mail Mac at mschafer@pinnaclepres.org.
Wednesday Night Bible Study: Jesus’ Use of the Prophets
Taught by Rev. Fran Park
Wednesdays from 6 – 7 p.m. in the Chapel Conference Room, beginning Sept. 10
Wednesday Night Bible Study will focus on the continuing awareness of the Old Testament and our understanding of the history and community in which Jesus was nurtured and the expectations he fulfilled as God’s Messiah. We’ll also be discovering how the Prophets affected Jesus’ ministry and gaining awareness of how that religious background enabled Jesus to enrich the lives of all God’s people. Expand your faith journey by sharing in God’s word for today.
Mug N’ Muffin
Facilitated by Mrs. Katy Schafer, MDiv.
First and Third Wednesdays each month at 9:30 – 11 a.m. in Room 2 of Fellowship Hall, beginning Sept. 17
Mug N’ Muffin is for mothers of young children. It incorporates a devotional time along with time for sharing joys and concerns and keeping prayer journals. Moms gather to drink coffee, discuss relevant topics, dig into the Bible, pray for each other, and celebrate life together. Mothers may drop off their kid(s) in the sanctuary nursery and head on over to the Fellowship Hall for some quality women’s time. For more information, call Katy Schafer at 480.513.0942.
To Live is Christ: The Life and Ministry of Paul
Taught by Mrs. Shelly Core
Wednesdays from 6–7:15 p.m. in Room 2 of Fellowship Hall, beginning Sept. 17
Join us in this scripture and video–based Beth Moore study into the life and heart of Paul, the apostle. Along the way you will get to know the “Apostle to the Gentiles” in a new way. You will discover him to be a man who formed many close friendships with both men and women. He served faithfully and loved heartily. This study will challenge and encourage you. You will gain a new appreciation of servanthood.
Kerygma – Bible survey course
Facilitated by Brandon Willett, M.Div.
Every other Monday evening from 7–8:30 p.m. beginning Sept. 29 in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall
This intermediate level course is open to all and will offer a basic introduction to the bible as a whole. Inviting adults into a new adventure of learning, the course explores biblical people, events, ideas and places, through reading, reflection, discussion, creative expression and discovery. This year participants will be studying the Old Testament portion of the Bible in fifteen sessions. The class will meet and will conclude for the year on May 4th. Materials for the two–year course are $40. To enroll or request additional information, contact Brandon at 480.284.6803.
Ladies Bible Group
Taught by Gena Brown
Tuesdays at 10 a.m. in the Chapel Conference Room, beginning Oct. 7
Ladies, join us as we begin a 6–week Bill Hybels Interaction study: “Fruit of the Spirit” which is designed to develop participants into a fully devoted fellowship with Christ. In this study you will learn about the life transforming qualities God wants to cultivate inside you and be given the power to produce each kind of spiritual “fruit.” This can transform every relationship you have, and you’ll discover the one route to a truly satisfying life serving others. One week prior to the first class, we will have a get–acquainted luncheon on Tuesday, Sept. 30th (location and time TBA). Study books will be available at that time for $7. For more information, please call Jan Premo at 480.563.4778 or Gena Brown at 480.451.7613.
Exploring Our Faith
Facilitated by Rod Houston
Sundays at 11:15 a.m. beginning Oct. 26 in Room 2 of Fellowship Hall
The way to really explore your beliefs and develop a Christian support group is through Adult Sunday School. The format will be a continuing group who will select and discuss a Christian article or video tape led by class moderators. The class will be convened by Rod Houston who has had 20 years of outstanding experiences in the Adult Sunday School classes he has attended. Some of his closest friends and largest leaps of Christian understanding are a result of his attending Adult Sunday School classes. The first session will be an orientation session where you will be able to see if you would like to participate.
Labyrinth Walks at Pinnacle Throughout The Year
Coordinated by the Labyrinth Ministry Team
The Pinnacle Labyrinth is a copy of the one laid in stone on the floor of Chartres Cathedral in France. It is known as an 11-circuit labyrinth because there are 11 rings before reaching the center. The Labyrinth is often thought of as a pilgrimage and offers the seeker an opportunity to journey to the center , or place of illumination, and to follow the same path back out again. Labyrinths are seen to be metaphors for life and a tool for deepening our journey with God. The following are dates and times the Pinnacle Labyrinth will be open for use:
| Sunday, Nov. 30, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. | Advent Candlelight Walk | |
| Wednesday, Dec. 24, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Christmas Week Walk | |
| Friday, Dec. 26, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Christmas Week Walk | |
| Saturday, Dec. 27, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Christmas Week Walk | |
| Sunday, Dec. 28, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Christmas Week Walk | |
| Monday, Dec. 29, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Christmas Week Walk | |
| Tuesday, Dec. 30, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Christmas Week Walk | |
| Wednesday, Dec. 31, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | New Year’s Eve Walk | |
| Sunday, March 1st from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. | First Sunday of Lent Candlelight Walk | |
| Sunday, April 5, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. | Palm Sunday Candlelight Walk | |
| Monday, April 6, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Holy Week Walk | |
| Tuesday, April 7, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Holy Week Walk | |
| Wednesday, April 8, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Holy Week Walk | |
| Thursday, April 9, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Holy Week Walk | |
| Friday, April 10, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. | Good Friday Candlelight Walk | |
The Presbyterian Book Table
Oct. 12, Dec. 7, Feb. 8, April 5
After 10 a.m. worship on the West Terrace
More of the time our generation of church goers does not pick a church because of its denomination. We pick a church because it feels right. As a result, sometimes we don’t really know what it means to be Presbyterian. The Presbyterian book table gives you an opportunity to read for yourself what it means to be Presbyterian. The book table will be on the West Terrace every Sunday that new members are welcomed into the church.
The Thoughtful Christian
Bible study should be timely. It should stimulate our thoughts about Christian values and how they relate to today's world. The Thoughtful Christian is a Web–based resource center designed to stimulate discussion about today’s world and our faith. Selected articles from The Thoughtful Christian will be available in the Sanctuary narthex or visit them at thethoughtfulchristian.com. Contact Shelly Core at snscore@msn.com for any articles you would like to receive at no charge.
Fall 2008 Classes
The Primal Teen: What the New Discoveries About the Teenage Brain Tell Us About Our Kids, by Barbara Strauch
Taught by Rev. Kristin Willett
6 weeks (excluding 10/9) beginning Wednesday, Sept. 17, at 6:30 p.m. in the Youth Room
The medical science and health editor of the New York Times, Barbara Strauch, has compiled the most recent research on the teenage brain. Her easy to read book promises insight for anyone who has ever puzzled over the mysterious and often infuriating behavior of teenagers. It turns out that they only development during adolescents isn't hormones, but the brain goes through changes that are as dramatic and crucial as those that take place in the first two years of life. Featuring interviews with scientists, teenagers, parents, and teachers, The Primal Teen explores common challenges – why teens go from articulate and mature one day to morose and unreachable the next, why they engage in risky behavior – and offers practical strategies to help manage these formative and often difficult years. Though dealing with scientific findings, this book is a easy read and very accessible to parents.
G.A. Recap: What Happened at the 218th Presbyterian General Assembly?
Taught by Bill Noyes and Rev. Fran Park
Sunday, Sept. 28, at 11:15 a.m. in the Chapel
The governing body of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) met in June in San Jose, Calif. Pinnacle Presbyterian’s first commissioner to General Assembly, Bill Noyes, will share his experience and highlight some of the decisions and recommendations made that will affect many aspects of church life. Rev. Fran Park, a participant in many past General Assemblies, will also be on hand to answer questions and offer insights on various topics.
The Koran/Islam in the West/Women of Islam
Taught by Dr. Alan Stone
Sundays, Oct. 5, 12 and 19, at 11:15 a.m. in the Chapel
On Oct. 5, discover how the Koran developed after Muhammad, its relationship to Christianity, and its message for the West. On Oct. 12, we will explore the migration of Muslims to America and Europe and what this means for the future of the West and for Islam. On Oct. 18, we will see how women are viewed in the Koran and their changing status in the Muslim world.
Peace: What Is It And How Do You Find It?
Facilitated by Anne Foley
Wednesdays, Oct. 15, 22 and 29, at 6 p.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall
Inner peace. What is it and how do we find it in our own life? How can we bring peace to a world desperate for it? Jesus told us that if we wanted something to change, we must become the change. Using the powerful new novel; The Passages to Peace written by church member Anne Foley, participants will discuss how to find the peace that lives deep inside every human life and why it is not too late, or too early to use inner peace to improve human relations in our families, our communities, our country and the world.
How Women Pray
Taught by Parris Richie
Thursdays, Oct. 9, 16, 23 and 30, at 7 p.m. in the Church Office
In three 4-week sessions we will focus on the power of prayer. Sessions will be from 7-8 p.m. Thursday s, Oct. 9-30. The study should help us find where we are in our relationship with God on an intimate level. Richard Foster said "The father's heart is open wide – you are welcome to come in. Texts used for guidance will include the Bible, What Happens When Women Pray by Evelyn Christenson, Prayer by Richard J. Foster, The Faith Club by Ranya Idliby, Suzanne Oliver, and Priscilla Warner. Please come to class with your Bible.
Social Equity and Community Activism
Taught by David Smith
Mondays, Oct. 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, at 7 p.m. in the Chapel Conference Room
How can I find a cause I believe in? Once I have identified a cause, how can I tap into the resources needed to make a real difference? In this series, we will explore models of social equity and learn how to achieve your goals by partnering with the public and private sectors. Finding funding for your program and learning to overcoming obstacles are critical steps in bringing about change in our communities. Various community leaders will be featured guest speakers. David Smith is the County Manager of Maricopa County.
MySpace and My Child: Social Networks and Internet Safety
Taught by Buzzy LeCluyse
Sunday, Oct. 19, from 4–6 p.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall
As parents we all want our children to be safe which is challenging in our world today. The internet presents a wide variety of safety challenges including those related to "Social Networks." Come learn about the most popular internet social networks (MySpace and Facebook), how your children may be using them and what you can do to help them stay safe. LeCluyse is Director of Youth and College Ministries at Mountain View Presbyterian Church.
A Pipe Organ Encounter
Taught by Brent Hylton
Monday, Oct. 20 and Monday, Jan. 12 at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary
Join us for an up close and personal experience of the Pinnacle pipe organ, guided by Brent Hylton. Hylton will not only lead the tour, including a "behind the pipes" look inside, he will demonstrate the power and majesty of this extraordinary instrument.
Brain Fun & Fitness
Taught by Phyllis Strupp
Oct. 21 and 28, Nov. 10 and 24 from 7–8:30 p.m. in Room 2 of Fellowship
Hall
Different activities exercise different areas of your brain. We will experience several easy, fun brain exercises so you can feel the benefits of brain exercise for yourself – without breaking a sweat! You'll get concrete suggestions for how to care for your brain, and how your faith and spirituality can enhance your brain's health. Avoid being taken in by the "brain hype" that is rampant today and discover the activities that offer the best approach to brain fitness. We will discuss improving your memory, discovering the best kept secrets of brain fitness and develop your personal brain fitness plan.
The Big Event
Sponsored by Presbytery of Grand Canyon
Saturday, Oct. 25, at Valley Presbyterian Church
Every two years our Presbytery holds an all-day collection of workshops on various aspects of Christian Faith and Life. Rev. Mac Schafer will conduct workshops on Celebrating the Sacred Gift of Place and Labyrinth 101: Listening to Your Life. Rev. Fran Park will lead a workshop on Staying Connected & Collected as an Elder – Have you read what we’re responsible for? For further details including a complete listing of workshops, please visit www.pbygrandcanyon.org.
The Book of Revelation
Taught by Dr. Michael Hegeman
Sundays, Oct. 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16 and 23, at 11:15 a.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall
The New Testament book of Revelation, or The Apocalypse of John, is one of the most enigmatic writings of early Christian literature. It has been read and interpreted throughout Christian history as a “codebook” for predicting the cataclysmic end of time. Each successive generation of Christians has looked for, and seen, the “signs” of the “apocalypse” in the events of its time. The art and literature of Western civilization has been strongly influenced by this unusual book, as well as much of Christian self–understanding throughout the ages. Yet the exotic visions that John reports remain strange and distant to many of us. The book of Revelation, when read with an eye to its historical context, has a lot to reveal about how early Christians related to God and the world around them. This 5–week study of the “Revelation” will help lead us through this foreign land of apocalyptic literature, uncovering perspectives of faith that may have much to say to God’s church today.
Christianity 101 – Fundamentals of Our Faith
Taught by the Pastors of Pinnacle Presbyterian Church
Sundays, Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21, at 11:15 a.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall
During this Season of Advent, spend time reflecting on your faith as we discuss the topics of God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and the Bible. Bring your questions as we explore these basic building blocks of our Christian faith. Attend one session or all of them as each will be an independent class.
The Art of Betty Lou Summers
Taught by Betty Lou Summers
Monday, Nov. 17, at 7 p.m. in the Chapel
Come join the fun of examining the art of watercolor! In talking about various pieces of my art, we will explore a variety of the techniques available to watercolor artists. Amaze your friends with your new knowledge of art terms. Bring an active imagination with you as well as your questions pertaining to realistic and abstract art. The idea is to have fun while learning.
Life After Loss: A Group For The Bereaved
Facilitated by Fran Wise
Tuesdays, Nov. 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, at 11 a.m. in the Chapel Parlor
The holidays can be some of the more difficult times to get through when you have lost a loved one. As the Christmas season approaches, consider joining experienced grief counselor Fran Wise for this four week group on living life as best you can after the experience of the death of a spouse or significant family member.
Harry Potter: Themes of Humanity & Faith
Taught by Rev. Mac Schafer
Wednesday, Nov. 19, at 6 p.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall
Ahead of the release of the sixth Harry Potter film next year, young and old Harry Potter fans and readers are invited to this evening of discussion about the Harry Potter series. There are many wonderful themes that run through the writings of J.K. Rowlings, among them our humanity and our religious faith. Join Mac Schafer as he explores these themes in a fun class environment.
Spring 2009 Classes
Find Your Joy by Identifying Your Gifts and Passions
Taught by Rod Houston
Sunday, Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25, at 11:15 a.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall
In each of us is a joyful, authentic Self waiting to be released. Part of finding this person is to identify and understand our God given gifts, passions, and style. In this 4 week seminar, you will find your gifts, passions, and style through what is taught, discussion, and some simple tests. You will receive validation of this by interacting with the other members of the class. The instructor for the seminar is Rod Houston, who introduced this program to 150 people in 15 classes in his last church. His journey with the program spans 30 years and he has attended several different seminars on the subject. He promises lively discussion and lots of fun in the journey to finding your joy. If you want to find out more about this seminar, call Rod at 480–471–8482.
The Five Love Languages of Children
Taught by Leslie Laurent
Wednesdays, Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb. 5, at 6 p.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall
Kids desperately need to know how much you love them. But if you don't know their special "love languages," you might as well be speaking gibberish. Every child (like every adult) expresses and receives love best through one of five communication styles. Find out which one of these your child speaks. Leslie D. Laurent, M.C., L.M.F.T. will be conducting a class for four weeks in Jan. based on the book The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman, PhD and Ross Campbell, M.D. We will look at our children's communication styles with the aid of an assessment in the book, and enhance our ability to understand and connect with our children. Discover how to express unconditional feelings of respect, affection and commitment that will resonate in their souls and inspire them for the rest of their lives.
Spiritual Practices
Taught by Dr. Michael Hegeman
Thursdays, Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, at 7 p.m.
Throughout the ages Christians have engaged their faith in practicing the spiritual disciplines of prayer, scripture reading, singing, contemplation, pilgrimage, and acts of charity. Although many of our ancestors in the faith cloistered themselves in monastic communities in order to “put aside the concerns of this world,” so that they could engage in full–time spirituality, we have the opportunity to live into our faith without leaving the world. It may be difficult to create time to practice one’s spirituality. Nevertheless, the disciplines of prayer and spiritual meditation have much to offer Christians today in bringing balance to their busy lives by exercising and stretching their spiritual muscles. This 5–week study exploring various spiritual disciplines will encourage us to deepen our faith, taking time to “turn our eyes upon Jesus” and to quiet our hearts and minds so that we might hear how the Spirit is speaking to the Church today.
Middle East Discussion Group
Facilitated by David Schaller
12 weeks beginning Thursday, Jan. 15, at 7 p.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall
It is clear that events in the Middle East cannot be ignored. The United States is engaged in wars in Iraq and Afghanistan with potential conflicts looming in Iran, Syria and elsewhere. Religious inspired violence is on the rise. In a 12 week class, we will learn how a lasting peace that allows social justice for all parties may be achieved in this troubled part of the world. Several of the most up–to–date books that examine Middle East history and politics will be discussed in a “book–club” format. The class will also learn about the conflict resolution work being performed by the 40 different Non–Governmental Organizations that class facilitator David Schaller and Rev. Mac Schafer met with during their trip to Israel/Palestine in Nov. 2006.
Ladies Bible Group
Taught by Gena Brown
Tuesdays at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the Chapel Conference Room, beginning Jan. 20th
The ladies embark on a 12–week Max Lucado Life Lessons series: “ The Gospel of John: When God Became Man.” Without the apostle John we would have been left to wonder about the hands–on Jesus, but through John’s eyes and pen, we are privileged to witness the ministry of the Savior. Using Max Lucado’s method of “ask, search, and seek”, we will learn to make Jesus’ ministry come alive, thus living these life lessons of fulfillment in our own lives. Feel free to join either class at any time. One week prior to the first class, we will have a get–acquainted luncheon on Tuesday, Jan. 20th (location and time TBA). Study books will be available at that time for $7. For more information, please call Jan Premo at 480 563–4778 or Gena Brown at 480 451–7613.
Eclipsing Empire
Taught by Rev. Bill Kirk
12 Weeks beginning Tuesday, Jan. 20, at 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall Room 1
New Testament scholars Marcus Borg and Dominic Crossan on location in Turkey as they trace the Apostle Paul's footsteps throughout the Roman Empire. This DVD study explores fresh insights into Paul's message of the Kingdom of God, its challenge to Roman Imperial theology, and Paul's radical relevance for today.
World Religions – Wisdom Traditions of Asia
Taught by Dave Ropp
Sundays, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, at 11:15 a.m. in the Chapel
As a young man, Dave’s first globe–trotting was with a radio, his fingers and an atlas. And his first destination was India in the pages of books, where he discovered the Hindu and Buddhist worlds. This discussion of wisdom traditions of Asia is the first of a series of studies Dave will lead with the objective of fostering a greater understanding of ourselves by increasing our understanding of others.
Each session will be interactive and focus on recognizing the beauty of other religions and how each has contributed to the diversity that can divide and can unite. Be prepared to participate! (P.S. Some of the material for this class will be from the pages of Parabola)
The History of Pinnacle Presbyterian Church
Facilitated by Mary Ann Biermeier
Sunday, Feb. 1, at 11:15 a.m. in the Music Rehearsal Hall
As Pinnacle approaches its 20 year anniversary, it is important to pass on the stories of our past. Come and learn about the significant events in the life of our church and share your favorite memories of our history. Mary Ann Biermeier is a church member and Pinnacle Preschool Teacher.
The Gospel of Mark – the Reign of God and the Challenge of Radical Discipleship
Taught by Father Vernon Meyer
Tuesdays, Feb. 3, 10 and 17, at 7 p.m.
Be a part of this unique ecumenical experience as each of these sessions will be held at a different church. Week one will cover the Gospel of Mark and the Reign of God and will be held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Community at 10815 N 84th Street, Scottsdale. Our topic for week two is Miracles, Parables and Who Is Jesus? and will be at Living Waters Lutheran Church, 9201 E Happy Valley Road, Scottsdale. The final session will be help at Pinnacle Presbyterian Church where we will learn about Discipleship and the Cross. Join with brothers and sisters from our larger community of faith as we seek new insights and challenges from this text. Father Vernon Meyer is a Theologian and Biblical Scholar at St. Patrick’s Catholic Community.
The Squeezed Generation: Caring for Aging Parents
Led by Rev. Fran Park
Sundays, Feb. 8 and 15, at 11:15 a.m. in the Chapel Conference Room
What’s the role of adult children who need to become more concerned for their parents while being responsible for rearing their own children? Rev. Fran Park will share some insights gleaned from 15 years of ministry with a congregation in a retirement community. Come and share thoughts, actions and helpful hints that may make these years a little less stressful and more creative. Bring your questions, issues, and concerns and we’ll explore solutions.
Music Is a Gas III
Taught by Brent Hylton
Monday, Feb. 9, at 7 p.m. in the Chapel
Back by popular demand, Music Director Brent Hylton & friends once again present a special program focusing on funny lyrics and clever one–of–a–kind compositions created over the years. From "PDQ Bach" to the creative, wild antics of Spike Jones and Anna Russell, this promises to be a fun and entertaining evening for all.
Desert Adventures in Grace for Lent
Taught by Phyllis Strupp
Wednesdays, Feb. 25, March 4, 11, 18, from 7:30–9 a.m. in the Chapel Conference Room
In the four part series, we will explore Our Earthly Home: how scripture and science affirm that we are one with the Earth spiritually and physically, and learn more about the mountains and rocks in our area. Our Plant and Animal Neighbors session will show that we are one with life on Earth spiritually and physically, and we will learn more about the plants and animals in our area. Our Human Neighbors class will demonstrate how scripture and science affirm that we are one with humanity spiritually and physically, and we will find out more about the world's common cultural heritage Our Spiritual Journey class explore the common spiritual needs of all people, and the role of the Desert experience and various spiritual practices in our spiritual journey. Each class will also discuss selected chapters from The Richest of Fare by Phyllis Strupp.
Christianity 101 – Fundamentals of Our Faith
Taught by the Pastors of Pinnacle Presbyterian Church
Sundays, March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 and April 5, at 11:15 a.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall
During this Season of Lent, spend time reflecting on your faith as we discuss the topics of worship, the sacraments, the Reformation, other traditions, being Presbyterian, and our
Christian Calling. Bring your questions as we explore these basic building blocks of our Christian faith. Attend one session or all of them as each will be an independent class.
Hymns and Hers for Happy Hearts
Taught by Brent Hylton
Monday, March 9, at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary
A hymn is a poem set to music, an objective expression of praise to God. That expression becomes a hymn when it is set to a musical tune. Thus a hymn becomes part of the music family. Join the music family – Brent Hylton, Pinnacle Chancel Choir & Soloists as they lead us through the "familiar" as well as "unfamiliar" hymns of our Presbyterian tradition.
Life After Loss: A Group For The Bereaved During Lent
Facilitated by Fran Wise
Tuesdays, March 17, 24, 31, April 7, at 11 a.m. in the Chapel Parlor
The holidays can be some of the more difficult times to get through when you have lost a loved one. As the Easter season approaches considering joining experienced grief counselor Fran Wise for this four week group on living life as best you can after the experience of the death of a spouse or significant family member.
Footsteps of Paul: Travel to Greece and Turkey
Guided by Dr. Michael Hegeman
May 2–15, 2009
Join your friends from PPC as we explore the sights and sounds of Thessaloniki, Athens, Corinth, Ephesus, the Greek Islands, Istanbul and more and learn of the apostle Paul’s passion and perseverance in spreading the gospel message to this region. Dr. Michael Hegeman, a recent PhD graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary and New Testament scholar, will guide us on our journey. For more information or to register, please contact Shelly Core at 480 488–8912 or snscore@msn.com. Discounts are available for early registration and payment. Space is limited.