As we begin this new season of life together, we are reminded from scripture of God's desire for the church. In Matthew 16, Jesus has taken his disciples out of pocket from normal ministry to drill down deep their understanding of who He is and what He came to accomplish.

When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" They replied, "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets." "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.         ~ Mt. 16:13-18

The surprise in this passage is   ... Please read the entire article Online!

Thanksgiving Food Offering - November 20

Each year, the people of the Bethany/Tempe campus give a Thanksgiving offering to God in the form of food boxes for the Tempe Salvation Army to share with needy individuals and families in our community. The number of families and individuals in distress continues to grow in our community.

Captain Robyn Bridgeo says, This past month alone, we assisted residents of Tempe with over 90 food boxes and 1400 food bags. Our food boxes consist of enough food to feed a family of 5 for three days. Our food bags for the homeless consist of one day's meals. For many of the individuals we serve, we are the only regular source of food they can rely on.

For several years, our church's Thanksgiving food offering has provided over 50% of the annual need of Tempe Salvation Army. Let's keep it going strong, as an expression of thanksgiving to our God!

On November 6 and 13, empty Salvation Army boxes with attached food lists will be available at the end of each service. We ask those who are able to take a box (or more), fill it and return to Bethany on Sunday, November 20. Also on that Sunday, bring a frozen turkey to bless a family during this holiday season.

Angle Tree 2011

Jesus said, "Whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me."   ~ Matthew 18:25 

The people of Sun Valley Community Church - Bethany/Tempe campus have the opportunity again this year to reach into the lives of some of the most at-risk children in our community. The gifts we bring are given to the children in the name of their parent who is away from the family serving time. This is often one of the few connections a child has with that parent.
 
Pick up an angel from Kristine Yost and her team on the courtyard starting November 13.  Gifts can be dropped off at the table in the courtyard on December 12 or at the church office no later than December 15. Sign up to be a part of the gift wrapping team on December 17, and to help deliver gifts on December 18.  Thank you in advance for your generosity.

 - John Wood, Missional Life Pastor     

An IHELP representative will continue to be on the courtyard the first Sunday of each month to answer questions and receive donations. There is a continuous need for toiletries, socks, underwear and non-perishable food.

Over the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays, Sun Valley Community Church - Bethany/Tempe campus will be participating with Tempe Community Action Agency (TCAA) to show God's love and make life a bit easier for our homeless neighbors in the IHELP program. The hostings for November and December are:

November 7, 21, 23-24 (Thanksgiving), and 27

December 5, 19, 24-25 (Christmas)

We've also planned some additional activities. 

November 24 (Thanksgiving Day): Breakfast to be served at 8am

November 27: Picture taking of guests who would like them

December 5: Guests will be provided with Christmas cards to send to friends/family

Your donation of Christmas cards will be accepted until November 30. We anticipate the need for about 200 cards with envelopes. Stamps would also be greatly appreciated.

December 24-25 (Christmas): Christmas Dinner and more...

Please put these dates on your calendar. There are lots of opportunities to make these holiday events special for our guests. If you are interested in helping to make that happen, please contact Gen Garan for details!

You should all know how thankful and appreciative our homeless guests are for being able to be on our campus for a safe night and a good meal. Thank you for participating and following God's directive that his people show his love to those in need.

245 W. LaVieve, Tempe 85284

November 18 & 19

6am - 2pm

The team is accepting quality donations, but no clothing please!  All profits will directly benefit the Husa ministry.  Please call the Husa Core Team 480.839.0338.

- John Wood, Missional Life Pastor