The Last Hurrah

This Sunday, June 3rd, is the last day for choir and orchestra this spring. It's also Darryl's last official Sunday on the preaching rotation. A sad day. We will sing "Walk Worthy" and the orchestra will play their masterpiece, "Alleluia! Laudamus Te." It's a 6-minute piece they've been slaving over for many weeks. I listened to it last night after rehearsal and it really sounds nice.

The clothing is bright solids, golf shirts for the men. Don't forget the 4:30 service too!

In Everything by Prayer and Supplication....

Here are a few prayer item updates:

• Chuck Bush goes to Cedar Sinai in Hollywood on June 12th to have a work-up to determine if he is a candidate for a lung transplant. He would appreciate prayers………

• From Kimberly Schmall: PLEASE share this important prayer request with everyone! My brother, Kelly, just arrived in Hong Kong on a covert mission trip to distribute bibles for the 3rd time in China and now also to Laos. He was kicked out last time he was in China, caught with Chinese bibles, and told never to return. If he is caught again on this trip, he will be in imminent danger. He and another friend are traveling as business men and each have two suitcases packed with bibles in both Chinese and Laos. They are going to travel from China to South Korea. They are filling water bottles with small Laos bibles and flinging them into the river (yellow river) over to Laos. Their prayer is that these holy water bottles will float and arrive into the hungry hands of so many lost and forgotten dear souls that need Jesus! The danger is that there are often snipers along the border of S Korea and Laos. Please pray for their protection and safety! My brother is married and has five children. His friend is married and has three children. We ask for your coveted intercessory prayers for these men!

• Doug and Nancy Nixon found out they need to move out of their condo the end of July. Nancy writes: Please pray with us that God will provide just the right place for us. There are many issues when you are trying to make provision for the wheel chair. Parking, storage, step in bath, wide enough doorways. I am a bit overwhelmed and can't think past the back pain I am having to packing but I know God will provide as He has in the past.
  
  The doctors report from my x-rays and MRI is that I have a couple of herniated discs in my thorasic spine. He doesn't think that is what is causing all the nerve pain though. There is a curve of my spine in that area that is pinching the nerves that lead from my spine through my rib cage and then to my stomach. We appreciate your friendship and continued prayer on our behalf.

GOING SOLO with Sharon Falada, Violin

I’ve been in the SBC Orchestra for: 17 years (Editor's Note: next to Karen Schreck and Bud Locker, Sharon has logged the most years of service in the orchestra.)

My instrument is: Violin--in the past I have played piano, guitar, flute, clarinet and percussion but haven’t kept up with any of these instruments. (Editor's Note: the secret is out--now Jonathan won't need to play 3 percussion instruments at once!)

If I hadn’t chosen the Violin, I probably would have played the: Flute--this was my original choice but in 4th grade the school started violin classes a half year earlier than band. My older sister was playing the violin and I thought I would try it for 6 months and then switch to flute. I never switched to the flute (I did play flute, however, in college.)

Most people have no idea that I: Sang in choirs, Christian vocal groups and bands for many years. Music has always been a big part of my life.

My favorite worship or praise song is: How Great Thou Art

My perfect pizza is topped with: Pepperoni, green olives and cheese

My family consists of: Husband, John. God lovingly brought us together 8 years ago. I have no children of my own but a stepdaughter, husband and 2 grand kids ages 13 and 9.

My life verse is: Proverbs 3:5,6

I’ve lived in AZ for: 19 years

I was born in: Omaha, NE

I drink my coffee/tea: Black coffee, no tea

My favorite kind of music: Contemporary Christian

I almost gave up playing the violin when: Never wanted to give it up!

My profession: Service Delivery Manager for Hotel software company

An unfulfilled dream of mine is to: I can’t say that I have an unfulfilled dream. God has blessed me with a very full, rich life.

Editor's Note: When asked what qualities people most appreciate about Sharon, here are just a few of the words that were spoken about her--dependable, talented, quietly strong, heart of gold, and wise. We appreciate you, Sharon!

Christmas DVD's are Available!

Have you heard of Christmas in July? We're headed that direction having just completed the 2006 Christmas Musical DVD. It has been professionally edited and is really amazing (I've heard but not seen it). You can purchase them at the tape center for $10.

Johnsons to Haiti for the Adoption

Sean Johnson, our pm worship leader, will be leaving tonight for Haiti to bring home their 3 adopted girls. How exciting! Cate has been there a week with the girls. They will come home next week and begin the new life with three kids! You can keep up with them by reading their blog http://cateandsean.blogspot.com/.

Joe's Always in the Middle of Things?!

HELP! HELP! WE NEED A CAPTION FOR THIS PHOTO!

Need we say more? This picture from the Children's Choir picnic last Sunday is
just begging for a great caption.

Send us your nominations and we'll post the best.
Be safe and have fun this Memorial Weekend!

Doug Nixon Needs Our Prayers!

Tuba player Doug Nixon is experiencing problems with his right foot--difficulties similar to what caused him to lose his left foot. As a diabetic, he expects to continue battling this. As many of you know, Doug has a great outlook and disposition about the whole situation.
Please pray:


* for him to retain that attitude--and continue to be a testimony to all of us as to how to respond to adversity
* for him to get well as quickly as possible!


Doug attended last weekend's men's retreat and says that he had a very meaningful time with several others there. He took home some valuable things from speaker Neil Anderson that he is already utilizing in his life.

Doug must stay off that foot so will miss these next two weeks. He is so thankful for your prayers!

Jim Magary Passed Away

This is unusual--2 former members of our ministry passing away in the same week. Dr. Jim Magary was a member of our music ministry (choir and Jubilee group) for several years. The services will be Thursday night, 7 pm, at Highlands church.

Click here to read Jim's obituary.

Greg Stapleton Passed Away

Those of you who went on the mission trip to Argentina with us in 2001 will remember Greg Stapleton. He played drums at SBC and had recently been playing at Word of Grace Church in Mesa. Dan Gutenkauf (former bass player) stopped by yesterday on his way back from the service at the mortuary to let us know of Greg's passing. I've seen Greg around town a couple of times lately and he was his usual cheery self. He had bought a ranch in Grand Junction, Colorado as a vacation home. It was at this location that he had a heart attack.

Click here to read the obituary from AZ Central.

May Birthdays

Here's our birthday list for May. Thanks to Primo for gathering these up and keeping us all up to date on these birthdays.

• 5/1, Katie Henline
• 5/1, Daniel Pincu
• 5/2, Deanna Crew
• 5/3, Virgil Moore
• 5/4, Angie Domini
• 5/5, Karen DeMoss
• 5/6, Theresa Dickenson
• 5/6, Linda Stromberg
• 5/7, Jane Hanson
• 5/11, Marilyn Desanto
• 5/15, Bob Cook
• 5/18, Marsha Bush
• 5/19, Debbie Lindner
• 5/20, Dean Anderson
• 5/21, Katherine Messer
• 5/26, Jim Taggart
• 5/30, Jeanie Wudell

Unpredictable Worship Devotional

Here's another devotional from Kim Shoup. Enjoy!

Read Acts 16:16-34

What events and memories stand out most in your mind? Usually our prominent memories are of times when the unexpected or unpredictable came to pass. How many times have you had conversations like: where were you when Kennedy was killed; when the space shuttle exploded; when 9/11 changed the world? Even though we may have been living through predictable, routine, even mundane days, we witnessed something unexpected which forever etched itself upon our lives, maybe changing our outlook forever. Perhaps the tragedy in an unexpected trial lies not in the experience of one living through the trial, but when those looking on are left untouched by what they see. What do others see in the trials of your life?

Click here to read the rest of the devotional.

Where in the World is Alex Going?

Scottsdale Bible is sending more than 350 people out on mission trips this summer and one of our very own violinists, Alex Tuten, is one of the lucky 8th graders headed to Imuris, Mexico in July. The group will spend its days painting the inside of a church and constructing a cement block wall. At night Alex and the others will lead Vacation Bible School by singing, sharing testimonies and helping local kids with crafts. Are you bringing your fiddle, Alex?

If Imuris sounds familiar, it's because another one of our string players, violist Sujoy Spencer, has been teaching violin and recorder lessons at the Casa de Elizabeth orphanage in Imuris for well over a year. Many of you contributed to the recent pillow drive and the repair of 13 violins for these kids.

Alex's group was commissioned at the PM services yesterday. I know that she'd appreciate your prayers. Specifically, the group is asking for prayer for health and safety, and that God would use them mightily. This is her first mission trip and Alex is praying for an open heart so that she can learn what God wants her to. Like all mission trips, financial support is always helpful as well! Let's send Alex off with our blessings and hopes that this trip will encourage her to be part of any future Worship Arts ministry mission trips. To find out more about her trip and how you can support her, email her at tutens@earthlink.net

Godspeed, Alex. We love you!

E'en So, Lord Jesus Come

Kim Shoup has written some thoughts to get us pointed in the right direction for the choir anthem this Sunday. Here's what she writes:

A little something to think about….

Ev’n So Lord Jesus Come

Last night as we were singing Ev’n So Lord Jesus Come, I was struck again by the Scripture passage on which it is based – Revelation Chapter 22. With that rolling around in the back of my head and with the lyrics right in front of me, the hamster in my brain woke up, climbed on his wheel and starting running a brisk pace.

Rejoice in heaven all ye who dwell therein… It dawned on me as I was singing that particular line that it was not referring to the heavenly host of angels but rather it was describing us. Revelation 22 is a picture of the results of the Second Coming, when peace blankets creation and everyone on left on earth will join in the song of rejoicing which saints have been singing before the throne since the Rapture. Perhaps this anthem is meant to add a hint of color to the picture Revelation 22 paints for us, using the intertwining of melody, harmony and lyric to describe our future experience – a depth of rejoicing in the tangible presence of the Living Lord who comes for His own.

Several weeks ago, Pastor Darryl made a statement I found very intriguing. He said that although Revelation was the last chapter in our Bible, perhaps it was also the first chapter in the next Bible of the new heaven and new earth. It is a chapter about the end of one time and the beginning of another. As such, it brings an expectant hope and an eagerness to experience the Lord Jesus at a new and deeper level.

Lord, may You enable us to experience a glimpse of our future as we rejoice in Your Presence through Your gift of this music. And may we rejoice in such a way that it brings hope and anticipation for Your kingdom to all who sing, see and hear so together we will rejoice in Your coming.

Nahms are on another mission trip

Chris and Carol are currently overseas on another mission trip. Here's what Carol writes:

Chris and I will leave May 9th for the Congo (DRC) and return May 24. We are part of a 12 member team from Phoenix Seminary and Congo Initiative whose mission is to conduct the first sexuality seminars in the history of the country. We will be ministering to an incredibly traumatized population. Approximately 4 million have been killed in military conflict in the past 8 years, an estimated 40,000 women have been brutally raped by the militias, and AIDS is now at epidemic levels. We are all very excited and sobered at this opportunity to minister to dear brothers and sisters who think the world, and maybe even God, has forgotten them. We greatly appreciate and need your prayers.

Here's the Picture from Sunday

This is the picture of our famous violinist from Mother's Day. Do you recognize her? Hint: she sits next to Karen Schreck and has blond hair (you think?). Beth pulled off this surprise tribute to her mother and says her mother had no clue. Her mother also was really grateful for the words of encouragement from Beth in that, yes, all those violin lessons are now much appreciated! This photo was taken at Interlochen summer music camp. Check out the girl next to Beth. Who does it remind you of? We see a very strong resemblence to a noted member of our ministry. What are your guesses?

Take Mother's Day Off

Once again, we're offering comp time for hard work and good behavior in the worship ministry. Take this Sunday off and find a nice brunch and think of me. I'll be at the WATER PARK for my annual mother's day gift. No, it won't be a fancy meal at any resort--a hamburger and baked beans at Big Surf. But, the good news is that everyone will be having a good time so I guess that's my mother's day gift. If you're coming to third service by chance, look for one of our own orchestra members to SPEAK and not play. I'll leave you hanging there and try to get a vintage picture posted soon. Also, bring your kleenex. Don Baltzer is speaking about his mother who passed away this last year. He's reading a letter she wrote to him which really sums up a mother's legacy.

GOING SOLO with Robert Dickinson, French Horn

I’ve been in the SBC Orchestra for: 16 years.

My instruments are: French horn (about 12 years), formerly trumpet.

If I hadn’t chosen the French Horn, I probably would have played the: I suppose the bass trombone or contrabass clarinet. I like the low-sounding instruments.

Most people have no idea that I: had dozens of my pictures published in magazines and textbooks about 20 years ago. (Editor's note: For now photography is a hobby--one that he hopes to spend a good deal of time on when he retires. His favorite subjects to photograph are people, landscapes and scenics, and classic cars.)

My favorite worship or praise song is: Blessed Assurance.

My perfect pizza is topped with: cheese & pepperoni, preferably from Streets of New York or Barro’s.

My family consists of: my wife and better half, Theresa, and our ten-year old “puppy”, Chester, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (big name, little dog). (Editor's note: Theresa plays the saxophone and is currently on leave from the orchestra with hopes to return in the fall.)

My life verse is: Proverbs 3:5,6 and II Corinthians 5:17

I’ve lived in AZ for: almost 18 years.

I was born in: Sierra Vista Hospital in San Luis Obispo, CA.

I drink my coffee/tea: no coffee. I like unsweetened ice tea, and I especially like (sweetened) Snapple Raspberry or Peach Ice Tea!!! Yum!!!

My favorite kind of music: my iPod suggests I’m some kind of schizophrenic. I suppose a large orchestra (heavy on the horns and trumpets) playing a cool movie soundtrack.

I almost gave up playing the trumpet when: I was working weird hours at my job in 1993/1994.

My profession: Market Research Analyst (in short, I size up retail and residential areas for optimal business opportunities).

An unfulfilled dream of mine is to: have a full-blown photo studio and know how to use all the equipment like it’s second nature. (Editor's note: When asked a bit more about his favorite subject, Robert had this to say: "Every now and then, I get a perfect shot. It's extremely gratifying (and rare) when I get the subject, composition, perspective, exposure, focus, and depth of field perfect all in one picture. I am sort of a purist. I do very, very little digital enhancing on the computer. I don't believe in spending hours on the computer trying to "fix" a bad picture. Too many photographers rely too much on Photoshop to fix pictures that can't (or shouldn't) be rescued.")

Thi Sunday, May 6, 2007

This Sunday choir and orchestra will join with the children's choir in worship. The colors are bright--short sleeves for the men. The songs are:

• Open the Eyes of My Heart
• Lord Most High
• Let the Praises Ring
• Sweeter
• Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus
• All the Nations

Also, choir will be meeting on the platform at 7:50 am. Hope to see you all there with smiles on your faces.

Tonight's Prayer List

Kimberly Schmall continues on a roller coaster that she can’t seem to get off. She needs medication for pain, but has been denied coverage from Access. If she doesn’t get her medication, she can’t work and if she doesn’t work, she can’t get off the roller coaster. Please pray for healing, peace of mind and God’s sovereign plan in her life.

Chuck Bush (choir) was admitted to St Joseph's Hospital last Thurday after seeing a new pulmonary physician. He was scheduled for a cardia cath Friday to evaluate him for an appropriate treatment.

Our sympathies go out to former choir member, Vicki (Lewis) Jones after the loss of her dear mother-in-law.

Donna Davis (orch) is also ‘battling the system’ waiting for acceptance for tests that she needs. Please pray for healing in the nerves and discs in her neck and back. She has damage and more issues in both areas. The Dr has found a new diabetic sore on Doug Nixon’s "short foot" and some kidney problems. He is back on three weeks of soaks and bandages for his foot. He is also back to the wheelchair, no weight bearing.

Pray for Nancy Nixon as she is still battling a back problem. She says that getting older is not for sissies!

Pete Megyesi (choir) continues to have treatments for his back pain work so that he doesn’t have to face surgery.

Sharon Sanders’ daughter, Dana Helton, was diagnosed with Vertigo caused by fluid in the inner ear. She has had this before and recovery was a long process.

Continue to daily lift Bill and Fran Wyatt up.

Top-Notch, High Dollar Entertainment

At the recent Town Hall Pizza Party I was pleased to announce that, in spite of us being new at all these jobs, we seemed to have done an outstanding work with the budget. As a result, we had money left over in the budget to hire some professional entertainers who specialize in town hall entertainment. Because they're so professional, they have extremely expensive instruments. You'll notice their garden hoses, funnels, and mouthpieces are all top-of-the-line. Just like the Diamondbacks and Suns, Scottsdale Bible goes after only the best, most experienced musicians for their "Star Spangled Banner." We were fortunate to have the group "The Four Horns of the Apocolypse" (-2+1) provide our opening national anthem. Thank you Greg, Dean and Stacy for providing this musical rendition for our Town Hall Pizza Party. If you missed it, you'll have to hope you can catch them at a professional sporting event in the future. We'll keep you posted...

I Have a Dream....

...That one day we would have a nice, neat, ambient place to sit and talk with someone on Sunday morning.

...That the south purse room wouldn't look like the back of a second hand shop.

...That if you needed a quiet, private place to pray with someone you'd know just the place.

...That someome would have a nice, comfy chair (leather would be great) just lying uselessly around their home and they'd love to donate it to the church. Anyone redecorating and need to get rid of a chair or two--or a loveseat--to make this dream come true?