A Word from the Adult Education Committee

Wednesday Night Bible Study

Greetings friends and members of Pinnacle Presbyterian Church. We are excited to present to you the Adult Education schedule of classes for the 2009–10 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.

We look forward to an exciting year of learning opportunities. Contact any member of our committee with questions or ideas.

Dr. Wes Avram, Staff Liaison	Mary Lou Roof
Don Braun	Molly Rosenbaum
David Fitzgerald	Dave Schaller
Lin Ogden	Marilyn Sorenson, Chairperson
Parris Richie	Estelle Wade

Sunday Adult Classes

Beginning Sept. 13, at least one Adult Education Class will be offered at 11:15 a.m. each Sunday. Some classes (indicated by a *) will also be offered at 8:50 a.m. Here is the schedule at a glance. Please refer to the full descriptions for further information. We hope you will join us.

Date	Class	Leader
Sept. 13	Islam – the Beginnings	Alan Stone
Sept. 13	Parabola Discussion	Dave Ropp
Sept. 20	Islam – the Foundations	Alan Stone
Sept. 27	Islam in Conflict	Alan Stone
Oct. 4	Tibet Under China	Alan Stone
Oct. 11	Sanctuary Artwork	Sam Terry
Oct. 18	Planning for the Days Ahead	Bill Bennett
Nov. 8	The Theology of The Shack *	Rev. Peggy Roberts
Nov. 15	Homelessness Initiative Update	David Smith
Nov. 15	The Shack (continued)	Rev. Peggy Roberts
Nov. 22	Beneficiary Planning	Lisa Doche and Steve Horrell
Nov. 22	The Shack (continued)	Rev. Peggy Roberts
Nov. 29	Christianity 201 – Trinity	Rev. Wes Avram
Dec. 6	Christianity 201 – Predestination	Rev. Kristin Willett
Dec. 13	“Mary” Christmas	Sherry Koopot
Dec. 20	Christianity 201 – What About Mary?	Rev. Fran Park
Dec. 27	Year of the Bible	Shelly Core
Jan. 3	Year of the Bible (continued)	Shelly Core
Jan. 10	Sistine Chapel Ceiling	Sherry Koopot
Jan. 10	Parabola Discussion	Dave Ropp
Jan. 17	Scripture to Sermon	Michael Hegeman
Jan. 24	Scripture to Sermon (continued)	Rev. Wes Avram
Jan. 31	Scripture to Sermon (continued)	Rev. Kristin Willett
Feb. 7	Congregational Meeting – No Adult Classes
Feb. 14	Scripture to Sermon (continued)	Rev. Fran Park
Feb. 21	Lenten Conversation – Sin and Forgiveness	PPC Pastors
Feb. 21	Legacy Planning	Lisa Doche
Feb. 28	Lenten Conversation – Sin and Forgiveness (continued)	PPC Pastors
March 7	Lenten Conversation – Sin and Forgiveness (continued)	PPC Pastors
March 7	Parabola Discussion	Dave Ropp
March 14	Lenten Conversation – Sin and Forgiveness (continued)	PPC Pastors
March 21	Lenten Conversation – Sin and Forgiveness (continued)	PPC Pastors

Studies throughout the Church Year 2009–10

Women and the Word
Facilitated by L.A. Kowal and Mary LaMagna
Second Tuesday of the month beginning Aug. 4, at 7 p.m. in L.A. Kowal’s home

Join us to discuss the previous Sunday service sermon with other interested women. We will meet at the home of one of our attendees the second Tuesday of each month for interesting thought and theology. You’re invited for an interesting evening of fellowship. The location will be near the church in the Pinnacle Peak/Pima area at L.A. Kowal’s home with plenty of space and an inviting environment. Please RSVP 480.767.0042.

Conversation Uncorked
Facilitated by Rev. Kristin Willett
First Monday of each month at 7 p.m. beginning Sept. 7 at Uncorked

Conversation Uncorked is a new fellowship group for women. The group meets to share their lives and explore God’s involvement over a glass of wine. It is a time for fellowship, support, and rejuvenation. Uncorked is located at 16427 N. Scottsdale Road. For more information, e-mail Kristin.

Theology On Tap
Facilitated by John Rosenfeld
Second and Fourth Tuesdays each month at 7 p.m. continuing Sept. 8 at O’Donaghue’s Irish Pub

A fellowship group for men in their 30s to 50s, the group socializes, discusses religious issues, theology, and various cultural issues. There’s nothing like a good pint and “good craic” (conversation) as they say in Ireland. For more information, e-mail John Rosenfeld at rosenfeld@netzero.net.

Meaning & Motherhood
Facilitated by Rev. Kristin Willett
Second and Fourth Wednesdays each month from 9:30 – 11 a.m. beginning Sept. 9 in Room 2 of Fellowship Hall

Meaning & Motherhood is a continuation of the Mug & Muffin group. It is a fellowship group for mothers of young children. It incorporates devotional time along with prayer and conversation. The hope is for mothers to share their experience, find support, and explore God’s meaning in their lives. Mothers may drop off their kid(s) in the Sanctuary Nursery and head over to the Fellowship Hall for some conversation and snacks. For more information, e-mail Kristin.

S.A.G.E. (Senior Adults Gaining Enrichment)
Taught by Rev. Fran Park
Wednesdays at Noon in the Chapel Library beginning Sept. 9

S.A.G.E. has completed its study of the Old Testament and gospels and now continues in the New Testament. We’ll begin with the Acts of the Apostles as we see how God comes among the early church. 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.

Wednesday Night Bible Study: Jesus’ Use of the Prophets
Taught by Rev. Fran Park
Wednesdays from 6 – 7 p.m. in the Chapel Library beginning Sept. 9

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 begin with the book of Job before moving on to the four Gospels. Expand your faith journey by sharing in God’s word for today.

The Parabola Discussion Group
Taught by Dave Ropp
Sept. 13, Jan. 10, and May 23, at 11:15 a.m. in the Chapel Parlor

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 e-mail him at droppoff@att.net. Parabola is sold at better bookstores such as Barnes & Noble, Borders and Bookman or by subscription at parabola.org. Sign up for the Parabola discussions by sending Dave an e–mail or calling him at the number above.

Women’s Book Group
Facilitated by Sue Larson
Second Monday of the month beginning Sept. 14 at 10 a.m. in the Chapel Library

The Women’s Book Group meets the second Monday of each month, September through June, in the Chapel Library at 10 a.m. Using a selected list of fiction and non–fiction books, one is chosen for each month to be read by the members and discussed. Membership is open to all; just come join us. Any questions, call Sue Larson at 480.585.9141.

Men’s Fellowship Breakfast
Facilitated by Rev. Fran Park
First and Third Thursdays of the month at 7:30 a.m. beginning Sept. 17 in the Chapel Library

Continental breakfast is served for $5 per person. No reservation is required. The group will typically focus on a book that raises everyday issues in light of the Christian faith. Our first book is The Post–American World by Fareed Zakaria and a Newsweek editor. This is a great opportunity to meet other men in the church and share insights and fellowship.

Kerygma – Bible Survey Course
Taught by Brandon Willett, M.Div.
Every other Monday evening from 7–9 p.m. beginning Sept. 21 in Room 3 of Fellowship Hall

This intermediate level course is open to all and will offer a basic introduction to New Testament literature. Inviting participants into a new adventure of learning, the course will explore biblical people, events, ideas and places, through reading, reflection, discussion, creative expression and discovery. This year participants will be studying the New Testament portion of the Bible in 15 sessions. The class will meet every other Monday evening from 7–9 p.m. beginning Sept. 21 and concluding on May 3, with a holiday hiatus in December. Materials for the course are $30. Facilitated by Brandon Willett, M.Div. To enroll or for more information, contact Brandon at 480.202.580 or brandonjohnwillett@gmail.com.

Jesus the One and Only
Taught by Shelly Core
Wednesdays from 6 – 7:15 p.m. beginning Sept. 23 in Room 2 of Fellowship Hall

This video-based study by Beth Moore is an in–depth study of the life of Jesus based on the book of Luke. Come along with Beth on a life–changing journey which will lead you through the hills of Galilee with the Teacher, across the lake with the Master, and finally, on the road toward the cross with the Savior. Get to know Jesus intimately... as though you had walked with Him during His days of earthly ministry. Contact Shelly Core at snscore@msn.com with any questions.

Labyrinth Walks at Pinnacle
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 as 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. Watch for further details on when the labyrinth will be available.

The Presbyterian Book Table
Oct. 4, Jan. 3, Feb. 7, March 28
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 Chapel or Sanctuary narthex or visit them at thethoughtfulchristian.com. Contact Marilyn Sorenson at marilyn.mjs@gmail.com for any articles you would like to receive at no charge.

Fall 2009

Life Through the Eyes of a Refugee
Taught by Christine Hobbi
Nine weeks beginning Tuesday, Sept. 1, at 6:30 p.m. in the Youth Center (which is just beside Fellowship Hall)

This nine –week course focuses on refugee issues, offering a better understanding of refugee status, conflicts that cause people to flee their homelands, the role of humanitarian aid organizations and the UNHCR, and refugee resettlement. Moderated by the International Rescue Committee’s Community Outreach VISTA, refugee speakers will also provide first–hand accounts of their escape from persecution in their homelands and their resettlement in Phoenix, Arizona. Weekly topics include:

Sept. 1	An Introduction to Conflict, Crisis and Forced Migration
Sept. 8	People of Concern: Status, Protection and the UNHCR
Sept. 15	Non–Governmental Organizations: Humanitarian Aid Abroad
Sept. 22	The Displaced: Living Conditions of Refugee Camps
Sept. 29	Durable Solutions and Refugee Resettlement in America
Oct. 6	Iraqi Refugees in the United States
Oct. 20	Bhutanese Refugees and the “One Nation, One People” Campaign
Oct. 27	The Political Plight of Burmese Refugees
Nov. 3	Clans, Civil War and Somali Refugees

Islam – the Beginnings/Islam – the Foundations/Islam in Conflict
Taught by Dr. Alan Stone
Sundays, Sept. 13, 20, 27, at 11:15 a.m. in the Chapel

On Sept. 13, we will explore the Life of Muhammad and how many of his basic teachings are derived from Judaism and Christianity. On Sept. 20, we will discuss the reign of the early Caliphs, the formation of the Koran, the spread of Islam around the Mediterranean, and the source of the Sunni–Shia Schism. On Sept. 27, we will consider Islam’s confrontation with the West, its roots and its future.

Steadfast Hope: The Palestinian Quest for Peace
Facilitated by Dave Schaller
4 Weeks beginning Thursday, Sept. 17, at 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall Room 1

For over six decades now the bleeding wound inflicted in 1948 in Palestine has gone untreated. In spite of widespread international recognition that an Israeli–Palestinian peace is central to peace in the entire Middle East and beyond, the situation deteriorates further each year. Learn how hope grounded in true change can emerge, and from it just peace rooted in justice and respect for all of the inhabitants of the region.

Chariots of Fire – The Story of Mendelssohn’s Elijah
Taught by Brent Hylton
Monday, Sept. 21, at 7 p.m. in the Chapel

In celebration of the 200th anniversary of Felix Mendelssohn’s birth, Brent Hylton will explore Mendelssoh’s Elijah. This musical feast of dramatic choruses, beautiful arias and expressive recitatives is based on the biblical story from I Kings. The oratorio sets Elijah’s most well–known exploits, including the raising from the dead of the widow’s son, the confrontation with the prophets of Baal and his ascension into heaven on a chariot of fire.

Ladies Bible Study
Taught by Gena Brown
Seven weeks beginning Tuesday, Sept. 29, at 10 a.m. in the Chapel Library

“Who is God? Who am I? Why do I crave relationships? How can I be connected to my Creator?” are just a few of the questions you’ve probably asked yourself. The answers to these questions and more are all found in one word: Trinity. Three–in–One… One–in–Three, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Join the Ladies’ Bible Study Tuesday, Sept. 29th, to gain a deeper understanding of one of the central doctrines of the Christian faith as well as a deeper understanding of the God we serve.

The ladies meet each Tuesday for this seven–week study at 10 a.m. in the Chapel Library. Cost of the study book is $8, and it is recommended that you bring a copy of The Shack by Wm. Paul Young as well. This book is available at all book stores. The author gives an unusual fictional account of his understanding of the Trinity which may be helpful to us as well. For more information, please call Jan Premo at 480.563.4778 or Gena Brown at 480.451.7613. More details will be forthcoming in the church bulletin.

Tibet Under China
Taught by Dr. Alan Stone
Sunday, Oct. 4, at 11:15 a.m. in the Chapel

Come to hear a perspective from Dr. Stone’s visit on today’s struggle of Buddhists and Buddhism against the ruling Chinese who are taking over Tibet.

Career Transition Workshop
Taught by Chuck Johnston
Mondays and Thursdays for three weeks beginning Oct. 5 at 7 p.m. in Room 4 of Fellowship Hall

Is your career in a transition? Are you unemployed, underemployed or unhappily employed? If so this, free six session workshop may be for you. You will receive a proven process and tools, plus some insider tips and individual coaching to help you with your career transition. The workshop will be 7 – 8:30 p.m. beginning Oct. 5 in Room 4 of Fellowship Hall. It is OK if you can’t make the first meeting, you can join in later. The workshop will be led by Chuck Johnston, a seasoned human resources executive and consultant.

Sanctuary Artwork
Taught by Sam Terry
Sunday, Oct. 11, at 11:15 a.m. in the Sanctuary

Come and learn about the history and construction of the magnificent cross and stained glass windows in the Pinnacle sanctuary. Sam Terry, local Cave Creek artist, will share background and insights that led to the creation of these inspirational symbols of our faith. She will also discuss the communion table, sanctuary light fixtures, and other works of art she created.

Legal Matters for Parents
Taught by Bill Bennett
Wednesday, Oct. 14, at 6 p.m. in the Youth Center (which is just beside Fellowship Hall)

Join us as Bill Bennett, Pinnacle’s attorney, answers questions and discusses critical legal issues for families – guardians, wills, powers of attorney, medical consent forms and more.

Planning for the Days Ahead
Taught by Bill Bennett
Sunday, Oct. 18, at 11:15 a.m. in Room 3 of Fellowship Hall

Most of us never travel without planning our transportation routes or thinking about where we will stay when we arrive, so we bet you are wondering – how do you plan ahead to get a reservation at Pinnacle Presbyterian’s Memorial Garden? Well, wonder no longer – the PPC Foundation is pleased to offer our fellow church members an opportunity to learn about this and many other life planning areas. Join attorney Bill Bennett in a discussion of what you need to consider in planning for those life events that require your wishes to be clearly defined and backed by legal authorization. This includes an explanation of durable power of attorney, registering your directives with the State of Arizona and how to handle such sensitive and important choices with your loved ones so that they, too, can be comfortable. Refreshments will be served. Plan on it!

A Pipe Organ Encounter
Taught by Brent Hylton
Monday, Oct. 19, at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary

Join Brent Hylton as he guides an up–close and personal tour of Pinnacle’s Richards, Fowkes pipe organ. Brent will not only lead the experience, including a “behind the scenes” look inside the organ chamber, but he will also demonstrate and the power and majesty of this extraordinary instrument.

Get “the” Conversation Started
Taught by Rev. Kristin Willett
Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 6:15 p.m. in the Youth Center

The dreaded conversation for parents of teens seems to always include the topic of sex. Come learn how to talk with your teen about this subject and explore the issues related to teens and sex. The conversation will center around the book Sex and Sensibility: The Thinking Parent’s Guide to Talking Sense about Sex by Debora Roffman. It will be helpful but not necessary to read the book before the class. Roffman writes fully committed to the proposition that what what children and adolescents need most are not sexuality “experts,” but wider and wider circles of everyday adults available to them for open dialogue about sexual matters. That idea is intimidating to most adults, but is important to our children and youth. “If we are embarrassed, we need to overcome it. If we are uncomfortable, we need to get through it. If we are ignorant about what is healthy age–appropriate for children and adolescents to know, we must find out. If we are afraid of what the neighbors or family members will say if we are ‘too open,’ we need to figure out how to take the heat.” Join to explore this topic and to learn how to be in conversation with your child. For more information, e-mail Kristin.

Great Prayers of the Old Testament
Taught by Parris Richie
Thursdays, Oct. 22, 29, Nov. 12, 19, at 6:30 p.m. in the Office Conference Room

This study examines praying from the ancient Israel perspective. Have your prayers become anemic and polite as Walter Brueggemann suggests? The insight from this study is extraordinary. Come see why.

Homelessness Initiative Update
Taught by David Smith
Sunday, Nov. 15, at 11:15 a.m. in Room 3 of Fellowship Hall

In 2006, Pinnacle Presbyterian Church united with other churches and state and local governments in a commitment to end homelessness in Maricopa County. Much has happened but more work is still to be done. Join Maricopa County Manager Dave Smith as he updates us on the progress of this critical initiative.

Phantom Night
Taught by Brent Hylton
Friday, Oct. 30, at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary

The whole family is invited to an evening of Halloween music at its best. You will be treated to selections from the Broadway “Phantom” show performed by Pinnacle’s soloists as well as a special appearance by the “Phantom of the Organ” playing all those scary tunes on the Richards, Fowkes organ. Come if you dare!

The Bible Tells Me So
Facilitated by Curt and Marilyn Sorenson and Rev. Bill Kirk
Rescheduled for Spring 2010; dates to be determined.

This award winning, powerful film is an effort to present with sensitivity, the divisive subject of homosexuality. Does God really condemn homosexual relationships? Is the Bible an excuse to hate? These questions and more are answered in this documentary which brilliantly reconciles homosexuality and Biblical scripture. Through the experiences of five very normal Christian American families, including those of former House Majority Leader Richard Gephardt and Episcopal Bishop Gene Robinson, we discover how people of faith handle the realization of having a gay child or family member. This film boldly takes on a loaded topic and examines it both intellectually and emotionally.

The Theology of The Shack
Taught by Rev. Peggy Roberts
Sundays, Nov. 8, 15, 22, at 8:50 a.m. in the Chapel Parlor and 11:15 a.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall

In this work of fiction by William P. Young, a man is invited to spend a weekend with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. His notions of the Trinity and his preconceptions about religion and Christianity are challenged, and he begins the process of healing several traumatic emotional wounds he has sustained in his life. Over this three week class we’ll discuss what this bestseller has to say about salvation, the Trinity, and why bad things happen to good people. Peggy is a Chaplain with Hospice of the Valley and enjoys worshipping at PPC with husband Matt and daughter Maddie.

A Horn Player’s Journey – Conversations with Eugene Wade
Facilitated by Eugene Wade
Monday, Nov. 9, at 7 p.m. in the Chapel

Here is your chance to find out about the inner workings of an orchestra. Join Eugene Wade as he leads us on his musical journey as a French horn player with some of America’s finest orchestras. He will share both stories and music as he traces his musical career.

Beneficiary Planning
Taught by Lisa Doche and Steve Horrell
Sunday, Nov. 22, at 11:15 a.m. in the Office Conference Room

Let Lisa and Steve help you focus on your emotional legacies and implementing them in your beneficiary designations and estate planning documents.

Luke and the Contemporary Church
Taught by Father Vernon Meyer
Tuesdays, Nov. 24, Dec. 1, and 8, at 7 p.m. at Pinnacle Presbyterian Church (Nov. 24, Dec. 8) and Living Water Lutheran Church (Dec. 1)

Be a part of this unique ecumenical experience as each of these sessions will alternate between the two churches. Week one will cover The World of Luke’s Gospel and will be held at Pinnacle. Our topic for week two is The Reign of God and the Infancy Narratives and will be at Living Water Lutheran Church, 9201 E. Happy Valley Road, Scottsdale. The third session will be held at Pinnacle and will cover The Journey Narrative. 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.

Christianity 201 – Fundamentals of Our Faith
Taught by the Pastors of Pinnacle Presbyterian Church
Sundays, Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 20, at 11:15 a.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall

During this Season of Advent, spend time reflecting on your faith as Rev. Wes Avram leads a discussion on the Trinity, Rev. Kristin Willett dialogues with us about Predestination, and Rev. Fran Park guides us into a deeper understanding of Mary. Bring your questions as we explore these important components of our Christian faith. Attend one session or all of them as each will be an independent class.

“Mary” Christmas
Taught by Sherry Koopot
Sunday, Dec. 13, at 11:15 a.m. in the Chapel

The image of the Virgin Mary is perhaps one of the most frequently presented in all of Christian Art. From the Middle Ages through the 19th Century, she has been imagined by many artists, from many countries, and in many ways. Her iconography is rich and varied. Learn more about the artistic representation of this special woman, chosen by God to be a pivotal part of the fulfillment of prophecy and the Christmas story. Sherry Koopot was Docent of the Year with the Phoenix Art Museum in 1995 and has served as a docent for over twenty years.

Year of the Bible
Facilitated by Shelly Core
Sundays, Dec. 27 and Jan. 3, at 11:15 a.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall

From Eat This Book by Eugene Peterson: “We do not read this book and the subsequent writings that are shaped by it in order to find out how to get God into our lives, get him to participate in our lives. No. We open this book and find that page after page it takes us off guard, surprises us, draws us into its reality, pulls us into participation with God on his terms.”

Get ready for the adventure! You are invited to join other members of the congregation in reading through the Bible during 2010. You choose the version, schedule, and pace. We will encourage each other and celebrate the journey. Contact Shelly Core at snscore@msn.com to be part of the expedition.

Spring 2010

Drumming in Worship: Experiencing God’s Heartbeat
Taught by Dr. Mark Sunkett
Saturday, Jan. 9, at 1 p.m. in the Sanctuary

The music of the drums creates a conduit to the Divine. This workshop is an opportunity to experience worship with our bodies as well as our minds. Join ASU professor Dr. Mark Sunkett and the ASU African Drum Ensemble for an exciting afternoon of making music with African djembe drums and other percussion instruments. This is a true “hands–on” workshop.

The Sistine Chapel Ceiling
Taught by Sherry Koopot
Sunday, Jan. 10, at 11:15 a.m. in the Chapel

Thanks to AT&T, all of us recognize Michelangelo’s magnificent image of the hand of God reaching out to touch the hand of Adam to bring him to life, which is the center panel of the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Rome. We might even recognize the panels showing the Fall of Man and Noah and the Great Flood. But what about the rest of the Sistine Chapel ceiling? How do each lunette and the corners of the ceiling work together to present one amazing truth revealed through Scripture? Come and discover the meaning that underscores the reason behind the remarkable creation that is Michelangelo’s masterpiece. Sherry Koopot was Docent of the Year with the Phoenix Art Museum in 1995 and has served as a docent for over 20 years.

Teens and Technology
Taught by Rev. Kristin Willett
Tuesday, Jan. 12, at 7 p.m. in the Youth Center

Technology can be both helpful and harmful. The harms can be magnified when dealing with the obsessive nature of teens. Explore the good and bad sides of popular technologies – cell phones, iPods and Internet sites – and learn how to encourage a healthy use instead of an addiction.

Scripture to Sermon
Taught by Dr. Michael Hegeman and the PPC Pastors
Sunday, Jan. 17, 24, 31 and Feb. 14, at 11:15 a.m. in Room 1 of Fellowship Hall

How does a pastor choose the Scripture readings? What process does he or she use to mold and fashion and interpret Scripture to draw out the meaning and relevance of the text? How should a congregation listen to a sermon? On Jan. 17, Dr. Michael Hegeman, a Ph.D. in Homiletics from Princeton Theological Seminary, will share insights into this exegetical process. In the following Sundays, each of our pastors will preach a sermon and share their journey from Scripture to sermon. The sermon has been called “the audible sacrament” in which a congregation actively hears and takes into themselves the Word of God. It is an active participation, a listening that is an act of faith. Come and learn more about how pastors pass on what they have gleaned from God’s word and how we can best prepare ourselves to receive the message.

Ladies Bible Study
Taught by Gena Brown
12 Weeks beginning Tuesday, Jan. 19, at 10 a.m. in the Chapel Library

The story of Jesus does not end with the crucifixion and resurrection. It continues in Acts with the ascension, marking not Christ’s departure, but a change in the way He performs His ministry of salvation and grace. The acts of the disciples go on down through the ages and leave a legacy of faith for us to live out and pass on. What God did for them, He longs to do for us, too. God wants to work in and through us even when the storms and shipwrecks of life come.

Join the Ladies’ Bible Study at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19, in the Chapel Library as they study Max Lucado’s: Life Lessons: Book of Acts, Christ’s Church in the World. Cost of the book is $8. This 12–week study also includes the DVD, “Acts,” the only dramatization using the actual scriptures word for word from the NIV. For more information, please call Jan Premo at 480.563.4778 or Gena Brown at 480.451.7613.

First Light – Jesus and the Kingdom of God
Taught by Rev. Bill Kirk
10 Weeks beginning Tuesday, Jan. 19, at 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall Room 2

Why did Jesus happen when he happened? Why the tiny villages around the Lake? Why the confrontations in Jerusalem? Why then? Why There? Why were the titles of Caesar Augustus taken from a Roman emperor on the Palatine hill and given to a Jewish peasant on the Palestine plain? Was it low lampoon or high treason? Either way, the Romans were not 1aughing. What were the priorities of Jesus’ proclamation of the Kingdom? How was the status quo of Roman imperial theology subverted by this obscure Galilean whose message continues to indict empire today? First Light is a DVD and Web–based study with John Dominic Crossan and Marcus Borg, two of the world’s leading Jesus scholars on location throughout the Galilee and Jerusalem.

Engaging the Muslim World
Facilitated by Dave Schaller
12 Weeks beginning Thursday, Jan. 21, at 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall Room 1

The one billion Muslim people in the world cannot be ignored in today’s complex multicultural society. Violent conflicts have resulted from the varied perspectives on Islam. Over 12 weeks, we will read and discuss several recent books concerned with the Islamic world view and American foreign policy. We will learn about the many ways in which the western and Islamic world can work together for a shared future.

Legacy Planning
Taught by Lisa Doche
Sunday, Feb. 21, at 11:15 a.m. in the Office Conference Room

A true legacy is a combination of emotional and financial elements, placing the family photo albums and CDs right alongside the family fortune. Lisa can help you get started answering the question, “What is most important to us?”

The Art of Stained Glass
Taught by Jim Norton
Monday, Feb. 22, at 7 p.m. in the Chapel

Stained glass has been a form of window and architectural decoration for buildings since before the 12th century in Europe. If you are looking for a fulfilling hobby or just have a burning desire to learn how to create stained glass art, this is the class for you. Join Pinnacle member Jim Norton as he introduces the art of stained glass making.

A Lenten Conversation – Sin and Forgiveness
Taught by the Pastors of Pinnacle Presbyterian Church
Sundays, Feb. 21, 28, March 7, 14, 21, 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 sin and forgiveness. We will explore aspects of evil, heaven and hell, reconciliation, and salvation as our pastors weave together how our faith interacts with real life in our actions and attitudes toward those needing forgiveness and those needing to forgive.

How to Be a Faithful Parent of a Teen
Taught by Rev. Kristin Willett
Tuesday, Feb. 23, at 7 p.m. in the Youth Center

As the season of Lent begins, come explore simple ways to nurture and deepen your faith even in the midst of the chaos and craziness of raising a teen. Learn ways to incorporate your faith into your daily life and make it a part of your family interactions. For more information, contact e-mail Kristin.