VILLAGE U CLASSESThe Spring 2020 Village U catalog is a wide umbrella encompassing all our adult learning opportunities in one, easy-to-find location. Village Presbyterian Church is a learning community with a long commitment to providing opportunities for adults of all ages to grow in knowledge and faith together. Please join us!
Registration for Spring 2020 Village U Classes
Child Care
Child care is offered for infants age 8 weeks through pre-k children (daytime) and infants age 8 weeks through elementary age children (evenings). For most, but not all, Village U classes, there is a one-time-only fee of $40 per child. Reservations are required in advance. Our trained caregivers provide a safe and loving environment while your children enjoy making new friends and participating in fun, creative activities. Child care is available on a first-come, first-serv basis. If child care was requested and is unavailable for any of your class choices, you will receive a separate email notification. If you need to cancel child care: Please remember to call and cancel your child(ren)’s reservation if you are unable to attend a class. Contact the Child Care Department: Marjean at 913-671-2322 or marjean.lindquist@villagepres.org, or Pam at 913-671-2352 or pam.southerland@villagepres.org for additional information. Please note: To accommodate as many families as possible, children are placed in classes based on their birth date. Therefore, we do not take requests for classroom placement. Thank you for your understanding. Class size limits are based on instructor planning, room size and child care availability. Adult Sunday Morning ClassesClick here for class descriptions and times.
Village Connect Conversation GroupsVillage Connect is a way to strengthen faith through conversations, while making and deepening friendships. Click here for more details.
SPRING 2020 VILLAGE U COURSESOur Village U Class Topics Include:
AL.001 - Boomerangs
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CHRISTIAN LIFE |
CL.001 - Men’s Bible Study
Dave Greenlee
6:30-8 a.m. Tuesdays, year-round, Room 230
A group of members and non-members meet weekly. Child care is not available. For more information, please email dgreenlee@kc.rr.com or call 816-588-5173.
CL.002 - Fellowship of Christian Athletes Bible Study
Newton Graves
7:30-8:30 a.m. Wednesdays, year-round, Rooms 132 & 133
A group of members and non-members meet weekly. Child care is not available. For more information, please call 913-888-2425.
CL.003 - Path with Heart
Marcene Borthwick
10 a.m.-noon Mondays, year-round, Room 303
The group will select books of interest through the semester from a wide variety of authors. Participants develop quality friendships and explore new insights. Prospective new members are welcome to try the Path. Child care is not available. For more information, please call 913-362-2706.
CL.004 - Especially for Women
Rev. Diane Quaintance, retired pastor of Village Church
9:30-11 a.m. Fridays, Jan. 3-May 22, Room 126
Especially for Women welcomes all women to engage in lively, challenging study and conversation focused on holding the Bible and theology side-by-side with our lives. The Winter-Spring term brings the return to the wisdom and writing of two familiar, renowned scholars: Marcus Borg and Elaine Pagels. Child care is not available. For more information, please call Rev. Diane Quaintance at 913-850-8647.
Jan. 3-March 6 - “Days of Awe and Wonder: How to be a Christian in the Twenty-First Century” – We will dive deep into Borg’s extraordinary insights and find a reminder of the faith that claimed him and calls us all.
March 20-May 22 - “Why Religion? A Personal Story” – Pagel invites us inside her own life of loving and grieving, exploring unexpected ways of understanding the spiritual dimension of human experience.
Jan. 3-March 6 - “Days of Awe and Wonder: How to be a Christian in the Twenty-First Century” – We will dive deep into Borg’s extraordinary insights and find a reminder of the faith that claimed him and calls us all.
March 20-May 22 - “Why Religion? A Personal Story” – Pagel invites us inside her own life of loving and grieving, exploring unexpected ways of understanding the spiritual dimension of human experience.
CL.005 - Believing and Belonging
Rev. Tom Are, senior pastor
Rev. Dr. Rodger Nishioka, senior associate pastor
Cindy Wilcox, director of connectional ministries
6:30-8 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 14 (part I) and Jan. 21 (part 2), Room 230
Designed especially for newer members and prospective members, these two class sessions will help you learn about the story of Village Church, meet others who are accompanying us on this journey and share conversation with our senior pastor. A tour of the building will also be offered. Being a part of the body of Christ means we are each called to offer our gifts for the glory of God so we will identify specific ways we can share those gifts. All of us seek daily to be faithful to God. We will also explore and engage in the top five spiritual practices that help persons grow as disciples of Christ. RSVP for free child care (seven days advanced notice required) to Marjean Lindquist at marjean.lindquist@villagepres.org or 913-671-2322.
CL.006 - Men’s Breakfast and Bible with Tom Are
Rev. Tom Are, Jr., senior pastor
7:30-8:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25, March 3, 10, 17 and 24 Room 228 (Friendship Hall East)
Join Rev. Tom Are for a morning Bible study. Chef Emily will prepare a hot breakfast, and Rev. Are will offer a reflection on passages from scripture. There will be time for discussion as well. Invite a friend and join the fellowship Tuesday mornings. To make a reservation for breakfast, please register online. Cost: $6. Child care is not available. For more information, please email rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
CL.007 - Servant Leadership – Conversations with Business, Church and Elected Leaders
Brad Stratton, elder, Shawnee Mission School Board president, trustee for the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System and president and chief executive officer of Overland Park Wealth Management
6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19 Rooms 126-127
*(Wednesday Family Dinner precedes class)
When two of Jesus’ disciples ask to be given places of power in his coming kingdom, Jesus replies, “I came not to be served but to serve.” For followers of Jesus who are elected officials, work in the corporate world or work in the church, the call is to be a servant leader. Join us for a series of conversations with publicly elected leaders (Feb. 5), for-profit and non-profit business leaders (Feb. 12) and religious leaders from Village Church and other faith communities (Feb. 19). Leaders are called to make decisions that best serve their constituencies, their employees, clients, and investors and members of their faith communities. Conversations will ask how these leaders balance their own personal faith and the call to serve in their various roles. Each evening will include a time for questions and answers. For more information about this class, please email rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
CL.008 - Top 10 Heresies in the History of Christianity
Rev. Dr. Rodger Nishioka, senior associate pastor
6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19. Rooms 132-133
*(Wednesday Family Dinner precedes class)
If you believe that all people are good, but we just make bad choices sometimes, you might be a heretic. If you believe that Jesus was a moral exemplar and a great teacher of truths but not the son of God and not divine, you might be a heretic. If you believe the God of the Old Testament is not the God of the New Testament, you might be a heretic. And if you believe that by doing good works, you can earn salvation, then you just might be a heretic. Throughout the nearly 2,000 years of Christianity, the church has faced many heresies. Over three class sessions, we will explore the 10 most significant church heresies and discover how they continue to linger among us and influence how we view God, the world, the church, and humankind. While we will not be tying anyone to a stake and burning them, you just might discover that what you believe was banned by the church and that women and men were tortured and killed because they held similar beliefs. For more information, please email Rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
CL.009 - Faith Seeking Understanding – An Introduction to Christian Theology
Rev. Dr. Rodger Nishioka, senior associate pastor
11a.m.-noon. Thursdays, Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27, March 5, 12, 19, 26, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7, Room 132
St. Anselm of Canterbury coined the phrase “Faith seeking understanding.” He understood that belief leads to greater understanding, which leads to greater belief, which leads to greater understanding and so on. Dr. Daniel Migliore is professor emeritus of systematic theology at Princeton Theological Seminary and supports Anselm’s claim. Migliore wrote his introduction to Christian theology to introduce readers to the central Christian message of the gospel of Jesus Christ through critical reflection. His book is one of the most widely read introductory theology texts in American seminaries and theological graduate schools. Students in this class must purchase Migliore’s book and read a chapter each week in preparation for our dialogue. Daniel L. Migliore. Faith Seeking Understanding. An Introduction to Christian Theology. Third edition. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing. Grand Rapids, MI. 2014. In preparation for the first class session on Feb. 6, please read chapter one: The Task of Theology. Child care is not available. For more information, please email rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
CL.010 - Church: What It is and Is Not: How It Got Here and What’s Next?
Rev. Dr. John P. Borden, retired Presbyterian pastor
10-11 a.m. Wednesdays, March 18 and 25, Room 132
From its beginning on the day of Pentecost through the persecutions of the early church to the full establishment of the church in society, the identity of the church has shifted, grown and changed. Now in the 21st century as the church in North America and Europe is declining and the church in Africa, Asia, and South America is exploding, what does this mean for us today? This two-session class will trace the formation and development of the church, relate the journey to scripture, and will look at what is next as we seek to understand, worship and serve God. Child care is not available. For more information, please email BORDEN4444@msn.com.
CL.011 - The Qur’an and the Bible
Biagio Mazza, pastoral associate at St. Sabina Parish in Belton, Missouri
6:30-8 p.m. Mondays, March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Room 126
The Qur’an, God’s revelation to Muslims through the prophet Muhammed, shares many similarities with the Bible in terms of stories and persons. Yet, they are two completely different books in terms of composition, literary style, and purpose. Ultimately, they both intend the believer to draw closer to God’s mindset, wishes, desire and intention for all humanity. The sessions explore stories and persons that appear in both texts, point out both similarities and differences in tone, perspectives, and details. Handouts for the Qur’anic texts dealing with Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Mary and Jesus will be examined both in small and large group exercises, correlating them to their parallel Biblical story and perspective. Child care is not available. For more information, please email biagio46@gmail.com.
CL.012 - Entering the Passion of Jesus with Amy-Jill Levine
Dr. Gus Breytspraak, professor emeritus of religion, Ottawa University
4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25, and April 1, 8, Room 127
*(Wednesday Family Dinner follows class except on March 18)
In “Entering the Passion of Jesus: A Beginner’s Guide to Holy Week” the Vanderbilt professor and biblical scholar Amy-Jill Levine helps us explore the last days of Jesus’ life. “A-J” has been to Village Church twice as a Visiting Scholar. This is one of her latest contributions (2018). Come see her each week on video and learn what this noted Jewish New Testament Scholar wants us to contemplate this Lent. Discussion and reflection on each video clip will be led by Dr. Breytspraak. Child care is not available. For more information, please email gus.breytspraak@ottawa.edu.
CL.013 - Saint John’s Bible – Illuminating Word, Enriching Faith
Very Rev. Peter DeVeau, retired Episcopal priest and Dean Emeritus of Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral in Kansas City
6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25, Rooms 126-127
*(Wednesday Family Dinner precedes classes except March 18)
In 1998, master calligrapher Donald Jackson was commissioned by Saint John’s Abbey and University in Collegeville, Minnesota, to create a handwritten and illuminated Bible, the first commissioned by a Benedictine Abbey since the invention of the printing press. The seven-volume work was completed in December 2011. When the Bible was completed, the Abbey proclaimed, “At the dawn of the 21st century, Saint John’s Abbey and University seek to ignite the spiritual imagination of believers throughout the world by commissioning a work of art that illuminates the Word of God for a new millennium.” The Bible is stunning in its beauty and is cited as a work of art and theology. It includes 160 illuminations.
Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral here in Kansas City has acquired one of the Bibles. In this four-session class, select passages of scripture as illuminated in the Saint John’s Bible will serve as windows through which to gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be baptized into Christ. For four Wednesday nights in Lent, the Very Rev. Peter DeVeau will lead a class that explores the themes and art of the Bible. Then on Saturday, March 14, all seven volumes of the Saint John’s Bible, will be on display at Village Church. A thrill in both sight and substance, it will be an extraordinary opportunity to see a contemporary illuminated manuscript of the whole Bible. For more information, please email rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral here in Kansas City has acquired one of the Bibles. In this four-session class, select passages of scripture as illuminated in the Saint John’s Bible will serve as windows through which to gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be baptized into Christ. For four Wednesday nights in Lent, the Very Rev. Peter DeVeau will lead a class that explores the themes and art of the Bible. Then on Saturday, March 14, all seven volumes of the Saint John’s Bible, will be on display at Village Church. A thrill in both sight and substance, it will be an extraordinary opportunity to see a contemporary illuminated manuscript of the whole Bible. For more information, please email rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
CL.014 - The Suffering of God
Rev. Becky A. Chamberlain, parish associate for pastoral care
6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays, April 15, 22, 29, Room 126
*(Wednesday Family Dinner precedes each class)
The God of the Old Testament has been commonly understood by many in the church and outside the church as a God of judgment and wrath. This God is hard to reconcile with the loving and compassionate God incarnated in Jesus Christ. With reliance on Old Testament scholar Terence Fretheim’s The Suffering of God, and Hebrew scripture scholar Abraham Heschel’s classic work on The Prophets, we will attempt to broaden our understanding of the kind of God portrayed in the Old Testament – the God who suffers. Fretheim says, “Grief has been characteristic of the history of God almost from the beginning of things.” We will examine and discuss biblical texts and language that provide three reasons for the suffering of God: 1) God suffers because of the people’s rejection of God; 2) God suffers with the people who are suffering; and 3) God suffers for the people. No books required except your Bible. For more information, please email becky.chamberlain@villagepres.org.
CL.015 - Battle for Beliefs and Understanding
John Borden, retired Presbyterian pastor
6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays, April 15, 22, 29 & May 6, Room 127
*(Wednesday Family Dinner precedes each class)
When Jesus says that “all things can be done for the one who believes,” the father who is seeking healing for his son replies, “I believe; help my unbelief.” Belief and unbelief encompass the faith story of our lives. Our beliefs and understanding about the Triune God vary individual to individual, church to church, and denomination to denomination. In these four class sessions, we will explore how our church father determined what are right and wrong beliefs. We will also discover how the books that make up the Bible were selected to become our holy scripture. Together, we will seek to believe and understand so that our belief will overcome our unbelief. For more information, please email BORDEN4444@msn.com.
CL.016 - 1&2 Corinthians – Letters to a Real Church
Rev. Dr. Rodger Nishioka, senior associate pastor
6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Room 132-133
*(Wednesday Family Dinner precedes each class)
Corinth, situated about 40 miles south-southwest of Athens, was an important commercial and religious hub. Made rich through trade, Corinth was a stratified city of the very wealthy and the very poor. After establishing a Christian community there, the Apostle Paul wrote at least three letters to the believers. We have only manuscripts for two of them. What Paul’s letters reveal is a community struggling with such challenges as idolatry amid many different religions, sexual fidelity and immorality, unity and divisions in the church, collecting funds for the ministry, and how to love one another. Bible scholars describe the Corinthian church as the most real, gritty, and honest of the new Christian communities. We will read 1&2 Corinthians, memorize some key verses, and discern how Paul’s wisdom speaks to us today as we, like the Corinthian Christians, seek to be faithful followers of Jesus Christ. For more information, please email rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
CL.017 - From Dust to Dust – Dealing with the End of Life
Rev. Sally Wright, pastor for pastoral care
6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays, May 6, 13, Room 126
*(Wednesday Family Dinner precedes class)
The poet writes in Ecclesiastes 3:20, “All go to one place; all are from dust, and all turn to dust again.” The words are true for all creatures but especially for those who are facing the end of one’s life here on earth. What decisions confront us both as individuals and as caregivers? Using Nancy Duff’s book: “Making Faithful Decisions at the End of Life,“ as our guide, in the first class session we will explore Christian beliefs regarding death, funerals and burials. In our second class, we will explore the very practical challenges and opportunities provided through advanced directives, power of attorney and do not resuscitate orders. For more information, please email sally.wright@villagepres.org.
CL.018 - Discover Your Calling
Rev. Dr. Rodger Nishioka, senior associate pastor
6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 20, Room 132-133
*(Wednesday Family Dinner precedes class on May 6, 13)
One of the key tenets of Reformed and Presbyterian theology is that all persons are called by God. The task of the follower of Jesus is to discover that calling. This calling may be to a church vocation such as an organist or music ministry director or pastor or Christian educator. Or the calling may be engineering or homemaking or teaching or painting and sculpting. Participants in this class will explore how God calls and to what God calls. Together, we will further discern what the Holy Spirit is calling us to do and be right now in ways particular and general. This class accompanies the sermon series by Senior Pastor Tom Are, Jr. on calling and purpose. Child care is not available for May 20. For more information, please email rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
ENVIRONMENT |
EN.001 - Solving Global Warming
Charles “Chick” Keller
7-8:30 p.m. Monday, April 6, Room 127
This class will review the cause of global warming and then move into discussion on how to solve global warming. Presentation and discussion will be organized around approaches to mitigating global warming (adaption, regulation and new technology), key factors to solving any problem (focus, measurement and passion) and where does global warming compare in importance with other issues the world and United States is facing? Child care is not available. For more information, please email kellerchick@gmail.com.
HEALTH & WELLNESS |
HW.001 - Adult Cardio
Margaret Tlapek
9:30-10:30 a.m. Mondays (Community Room-9900 Mission Rd.)
Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced, this class is a complete workout that combines aerobics, strength training, flexibility and balance exercises. Child care is not available. For more information, please email pekingfling@gmail.com. Cost: $5 per class.
HW.002 - Adult Exercise Cardio (First Session)
Margaret Tlapek
9:30-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Room 333
Everything you ever wanted in a total body workout is included in this class. An effective workout that includes aerobics, strength training, flexibility and balance exercises. Child care is not available. For more information, please email pekingfling@gmail.com. Cost: $5 per class.
HW.003 - Adult Chair Exercise (Second Session)
Margaret Tlapek
10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Room 333
This class is ideal for any beginner or for someone who wants to go at a slower pace. This class focuses on more range of motion techniques and less strenuous aerobics. No floor exercises for this class. Child care is not available. For more information, please email pekingfling@gmail.com. Cost: $5 per class.
HW.004 - Adult Exercise Cardio
Margaret Tlapek
9:30-10:30 a.m. Wednesdays, Room 333
Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced, this class is a complete workout that combines aerobics, strength training, flexibility and balance exercises. Child care is not available. For more information, please email pekingfling@gmail.com. Cost: $5 per class.
HW.005 - Adult Exercise Cardio (First Session)
Margaret Tlapek
9:30-10:30 a.m. Thursdays, Room 33
Everything you ever wanted in a total body workout is included in this class. An effective workout that includes aerobics, strength training, flexibility and balance exercises. Child care is not available. For more information, please email pekingfling@gmail.com. Cost: $5 per class.
HW.006 - Adult Chair Exercise (Second Session)
Margaret Tlapek
10:30-11:30 a.m. Thursdays, Room 333
This class is ideal for any beginner or for someone who wants to go at a slower pace. This class focuses on more range of motion techniques and less strenuous aerobics. No floor exercises. Child care is not available. For more information, please email pekingfling@gmail.com. Cost: $5 per class.
HW.007 - Adult Exercise Cardio
Margaret Tlapek
9:30-10:30 a.m. Fridays, Room 333
Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced, this class is a complete workout that combines aerobics, strength training, flexibility and balance exercises. Child care is not available. For more information, please email pekingfling@gmail.com. Cost: $5 per class.
HW.008 - Beginner Hula Hooping & Hoop Dancing
Sirenna Beyer
5:45-6:45 p.m. Thursdays, Room 333
Can’t hoop? Haven’t hooped since you were a kid? Then you will fit right in! If you are tired of boring workouts, then come have fun while burning big calories. This upbeat fitness class is low impact, strengthens the core and is an ideal cardio workout. It enhances agility, hand-to-eye coordination and improves balance. Most of all, it is fun! The class includes a stretch, a warm-up and basic hula hooping instruction to popular music. Easy hoop dancing routines, fun games and challenges are included that do not require any hula hooping skills. This class gives you a total body workout and everyone works at their own hooping pace. Custom beginner hula hoops provided. These hoops spin slow and are perfect for newbies. Kids welcome if accompanied by an adult. Child care is not available. For more information, please email kchoopgirl@gmail.com.
HW.009 - Walk/Jog
9:30-11:30 a.m. Fridays, Feb. 7-May 15, Room 15/The Village Cup
Enjoy a child-free walk or run in the neighborhoods surrounding the church. Please stay within walking or running distance of the building. Class will still gather on days with inclement weather unless the Shawnee Mission School District cancels school. For more information about this course, please contact artminvpc@gmail.com. Class will not meet on March 13, 20 and April 10.
INFORMATIONAL |
IN.001 - Battle over Ballots: Voting in Kansas 2020
Rev. Dr. Rodger Nishioka, senior associate pastor, facilitating a panel discussion
6:30-8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10, Room 132
In view of the contentious and divisive debates regarding voting procedures, voting accessibility and charges of voter fraud and voter suppression throughout the United States, an expert panel will discuss recent elections in Johnson County and Kansas. Representatives of the Johnson County Election Commission, the Kansas State Legislature and community advocacy organizations will examine the issues and help us begin a conversation about enabling citizens to assure that elections are fair and representative of the will of the people. Child care is not available. Sponsored by the Village Presbyterian Church Social Witness & Advocacy Task Force. For more information, please contact Vicki Ensz (vijiensz@gmail.com) or Kathleen Morrow (kathleenmorrow@yahoo.com).
IN.002 - Income Disparity
Charles “Chick” Keller
6:30-8 p.m. Monday, March 16, Room 232
It is bad. It is growing. And it is global. Simply put, the upper 10% of Americans are getting richer while the lower 50% are struggling. Lower taxes help the rich while inflating health care, education, and child care costs leave the lower half with less hope of breaking out from their financial woes. How did we get here? How do we fix it? Child care is not available. For more information, please email kellerchick@gmail.com.
IN.003 - The Harlem Renaissance
Lem Sheppard
7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, Rooms 132 & 133
The booming, experimental period in American history known as the Harlem Renaissance exposed the world to the arts, culture, and intellect of African Americans. But it was also a time of struggle when white society failed to respond to issues of civil rights and social equality. Could art produced by African Americans primarily for African Americans succeed where politics, religion, and the courts failed? It was a tall order, but not for residents of Harlem, New York, where young Black men and women with college degrees worked and lived. This generation was determined to chart a new course far beyond their parents and grandparents, many of whom had been enslaved. Using jazz, blues, spirituals and poetry, this presentation spans the 1920s and explores the contributions of Kansas artists who answered the call to this unmistakable moment. Lem is a musician and historian based in Pittsburg. This event is sponsored by Humanities Kansas. Child care is not available. For more information, please email Rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
IN.004 - Options for Housing As You Age And Why You Should Explore
Them Now
Evie Curtis
9 a.m.-noon. Saturday, March 28, Rooms 232 & 233
The Education Group is dedicated to providing education about issues related to aging and to helping others avoid common pitfalls in decision-making. The presenters in this housing series are people who provide a unique perspective, since they have both studied and lived the experience. This seminar will help you understand:
- Vocabulary of senior housing: Independent living, Buy-In, Co-op, Life Care, CCRC, Advanced Care, etc.
- Why planning now can translate into years of increased comfort and a better quality of life.
- What research on aging tell us about how to extend our time of living independently and how this knowledge fits with available housing options.
- Know When It’s Time to move and the downside of waiting too long.
- What it takes to remain in your home as you age and why you might or might not want to and alternative ways to live independently.
- Local Housing Options: In Johnson County, there are 11 options for independent living and 5 for advanced care, with multiple providers of each housing type.
- Costs of the various options and potential consequences of a wrong decision and which form of housing fits your needs and pocketbook.
IN.005 - Women Wonderworkers: The Self-Made Worlds of Visionary
Female Artists
Erika Nelson
7-8:30 p.m. Monday, March 30, Rooms 132 & 133
Explore four visionary art environments created by female sculptors. Mary Nohl embellished her Lake Michigan property with a series of interconnected concrete curvilinear forms, some reaching the second floor windows of her family home. Truck driver and preacher Inez Marshal sculpted large blocks of limestone and established the International Sculpture Hall in rural Portis, Kansas. Grandma Prisbery’s bottle village is located in an earthquake-prone area in Simi Valley, California. Laura Pope Forrester paid tribute to local and national heroes with her sculpted concrete vignettes surrounding her mercantile in rural Georgia. The presentation examines their inspirations and motivations, the work itself, and the afterlife of overlooked sites after their makers have passed. Child care is not available. Erika is the creator and curator of the World’s Largest Collection of the World’s Smallest Versions of the World’s Largest Things Traveling Roadside Attraction and Museum. This event is sponsored by Humanities Kansas. Child care is not available. For more information, please email rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
IN.006 - From Chaos to Calm: The Keys to Getting Organized
Helen Austen
7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, Rooms 232 & 233
Imagine a clutter-free world. An organized home, an efficient office and peace of mind. Imagine getting motivated, bridging the gaps in your life or work, and experiencing success. Helen Austen can make that your reality by sharing innovative insights and action plans so that you will leave empowered to overcome your organizing challenges. Helen is a counselor turned professional organizer and owner of Organized by Helen & Co. She serves as the resident organizing guru on NBC’s Kansas City Live and her work has also been featured in Women’s World Magazine and on KCTV 5, Fox 4 KC, KMBC Channel 9, NBC Action News 41, Kansas City’s NPR affiliate show Central Standard and many more. Child care is not available. For more information, please email rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
IN.007 - Art Imitating Life
David Couch
6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, May 12, Room 132
This class will showcase various pieces of artwork by David Couch. He will also share his passion for creating works of art as well as the story behind his artistic development. Child care is not available. For more information, please email slbus40@yahoo.com.
IN.008 - Narrative War: Understanding ISIS
Brian L. Steed, assistant professor of military history, U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, Leavenworth, Kansas and retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel
6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, May 12, Room 132
A Pew Research survey a little less than two years ago found that only 27 percent of respondents in Jordan, Tunisia, Lebanon, Israel, and Turkey saw the United States as a force for good. America probably has more enemies in the region today than it did at the time of the 9/11 attacks. How does America’s presence in the region feed the thinking of extremists? What are they hoping to achieve? In 2014, the city of Mosul fell to a battalion sized group of fighters in six days. ISIS used engagement, social media, YouTube videos, and grievances of Sunni disempowerment to fuel this amazing success. In the same year, the Russians seized the Crimean Peninsula and began an assault on the Eastern portions of the Ukraine. These are examples of what is now termed a “narrative war,” a conflict in which narrative manipulation is the decisive operation and organized conventional military violence is the result. An understanding of ISIS provides an excellent framework for understanding narrative war. Who and what is ISIS? When and why did they form? Child care is not available. For more information, please email Rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
LIFE SKILLS |
LS.001 - Tech Talks
Tony Liu, elder, retired IBM engineer and tech guru
6:30-8 p.m. Tuesdays, Feb. 4, March 3, April 7, May 5, Room 316
All are invited from the novice to the expert to an evening where the participants set the agenda. Have a question or frustration about technology? Tony and his crew of helpers provide one-on-one attention as well as whole group instruction. Each session focuses on a topic created by the attendees. The upcoming month’s topic will be listed in the Village Church Sunday bulletin and weekly Village Church on Mission eNews. Child care is not available. For more information, please email anthonygreeneliu@gmail.com.
LS.002 - Beginner Spreadsheets (Daytime)
1-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, Room 316
This class explores how to identify the components of a spreadsheet, entering data into a spreadsheet, formatting information, sorting data, and inserting and deleting rows and columns. Students will create a simple spreadsheet during the class to reinforce learning. Registration is necessary. Child care is not available. For more information, please email deecouch@kc.rr.com.
LS.003 - Beginner Spreadsheets (Evening)
6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, Room 316
This class explores how to identify the components of a spreadsheet, entering data into a spreadsheet, formatting information, sorting data, and inserting and deleting rows and columns. Students will create a simple spreadsheet during the class to reinforce learning. Registration is necessary. Child care is not available. For more information, please email deecouch@kc.rr.com.
LS.004 - Intermediate Spreadsheets (Daytime)
1-2:30 p.m. Tuesdays, March 24 and 31, Room 316
This two-week class is recommended for those who have a basic understanding of spreadsheets or have taken the Beginner Spreadsheets class. Topics include filtering and sorting data, using spreadsheets to create charts, and utilizing functions to easily perform mathematical and statistical calculations. Child care is not available. For more information, please email deecouch@kc.rr.com.
LS.005 - Intermediate Spreadsheets (Evening)
6:30-8 p.m. Tuesdays, March 24 and 31, Room 316
This two-week class is recommended for those who have a basic understanding of spreadsheets or have taken the Beginner Spreadsheets class. Topics include filtering and sorting data, using spreadsheets to create charts and utilizing functions to easily perform mathematical and statistical calculations. Child care is not available. For more information, please email deecouch@kc.rr.com.
LS.006 - Intermediate Presentations (Daytime)
1-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, Room 316
This class explores how to utilize the features found in standard presentation software to enhance your presentation. Topics covered include adding video clips and video files to a presentation, using the timer feature to move from slide to slide, adding speaker notes to your presentation (that only you can view) and ideas to consider when creating a presentation. Registration is necessary. Child care is not available. For more information, please email deecouch@kc.rr.com.
LS.007 - Intermediate Presentations (Evening)
6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, Room 316
This class explores how to utilize the features found in standard presentation software to enhance your presentation. Topics covered include adding video clips and video files to a presentation, using the timer feature to move from slide to slide, adding speaker notes to your presentation (that only you can view), and ideas to consider when creating a presentation. Registration is necessary. Child care is not available. For more information, please email deecouch@kc.rr.com.
LS.008 - Introduction to the Apple Computer (Daytime)
1-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 28, Room 316
This class is designed for the lifelong Microsoft user who wants to use an Apple computer. This basic class will discuss the major differences between Microsoft and Apple. Topics include getting acquainted with the Apple Desktop, the browser (Safari), the file structure and Apple keyboard commands. Registration is necessary. Child care is not available. For more information, please email deecouch@kc.rr.com.
LS.009 - Introduction to the Apple Computer (Evening)
6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 28, Room 316
This class is designed for the lifelong Microsoft user who wants to use an Apple computer. This basic class will discuss the major differences between Microsoft and Apple. Topics include getting acquainted with the Apple Desktop, the browser (Safari), the file structure and Apple keyboard commands. Registration is necessary. Child care is not available. For more information, please email deecouch@kc.rr.com.
LS.010 - Basic Microsoft Publisher (Daytime)
1-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 12, Room 316
This class is an introduction to Microsoft Publisher. The objective of this class is learning to use Microsoft Publisher software to create greeting cards, business cards, calendars or simple newsletters. Topics to be covered include accessing templates, editing templates to customize documents and printing documents. Child care is not available. Registration is necessary. For more information, please email deecouch@kc.rr.com.
LS.011 - Basic Microsoft Publisher (Evening)
6:30–8 p.m. Tuesday, May 12, Room 316
This class is an introduction to Microsoft Publisher. The objective of this class is learning to use Microsoft Publisher software to create greeting cards, business cards, calendars or simple newsletters. Topics to be covered include accessing templates, editing templates to customize documents and printing documents. Child care is not available. Registration is necessary. For more information, please email deecouch@kc.rr.com.
LITERATURE |
LT.001 - Italy in Translation
Kelly Fast and Michael Sanem
6:30-8 p.m. Thursdays, Jan. 30, Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27 & March 5, Room 232
This winter and spring, we will examine the culture and character of Italy through a variety of different mediums, culminating in a trip to Rome and Tuscany in 2020. Child care is not available. For more information, please email kellyfastkc@gmail.com.
LT.002 - Great Books Discussion
Jane Abildgaard & Joni Kimsey
2-3:30 p.m. First Tuesday of each Month, Jan. 7, Feb. 4, March 3, April 7 and May 5, Room 127
This is not your usual book club. We tackle those classic writings & philosophers that you were supposed to read in high school or college, like Aristotle, Hobbes, Faulkner, Locke. We discuss, share ideas, laugh, and enjoy friendship and fellowship. It’s great exercise for our brains. The Great Books group is currently reading The Great Books Second Series, a selection of essays about morals, ethics, justice and freedom. Books may be purchased through the Great Books Foundation. Join us the first Tuesday afternoon each month. Child care is not available. For more information, please email ja87869@gmail.com or call 816-392-9550.
LT.003 - Book Discussion: “How Elizabeth Barrett Browning Saved My Life” by Mameve Medwed
Nic Shump
7-8:30 p.m. Monday, April 20, Room 126
Harvard-dropout, Abby Randolph, sells “eclectic” antiques. Dumped by her lover and losing her mother in an earthquake, things begin to look up when Abby makes an appearance on the program Antique Roadshow with what turns out to be Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s chamber pot. Child care is not available. This event is sponsored by Humanities Kansas. Registration is limited to 20 participants. For more information, please email Rodger.nishioka@villagepres.org.
LT.004 - Book Discussion: “The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness” by Michelle Alexander
Dennis Etzel, Jr.
7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, Room 127
Author Michelle Alexander meticulously examines the role of race in the American judicial system. In a powerful tour de force, she steps back, looks at the big picture, and concludes that the prison industrial complex picks up where slavery and Jim Crow segregation left off. She demonstrates how today’s conditions perpetuate a system that discriminates against people of color through the War on Drugs. “No other country in the world imprisons so many of its racial or ethnic minorities,” Alexander writes. In fact, “the United States imprisons a larger percentage of its black population than South Africa did at the height of apartheid.” Beyond this lurks the fact that once a person is branded a felon, it is legal to discriminate against him or her in employment, housing, and education. He or she is excluded from voting, jury service and often denied public benefits. All of this adds up to effectively create a caste system as a result of mass incarceration. Child care is not available. This event is sponsored by Humanities Kansas. Registration is limited to 20 participants. For more information, please email rodger.nishioka@villagepres.orgThis class explores how to utilize the features found in standard presentation software to enhance your presentation. Topics covered include adding video clips and video files to a presentation, using the timer feature to move from slide to slide, adding speaker notes to your presentation (that only you can view) and ideas to consider when creating a presentation. Registration is necessary. Child care is not available. For more information, please email deecouch@kc.rr.com.
MORE ADULT OPPORTUNITIES
There are many more opportunities for adults to learn and grow in faith through Village Presbyterian Church…
Concerned about the environment and care for God’s creation? Visit the Environmental Action Committee web page at http://www.villagepres.org/environmental-action.html
Wondering about the myriad of music groups, choirs and ensembles and events? Find more information at
http://www.villagepres.org/music-ensembles.html
Seeking to participate in ministry with Presbyterian Women? Click this link http://www.villagepres.org/pw.html
Hoping to be involved in issues of social justice and action for God’s Kingdom? Contact the Social Witness and Advocacy Task Force here. http://www.villagepres.org/social-justice.html
Yearning to be a part of smaller group of adults for study and friendship? Seek out the Village Connect small group ministry here. http://www.villagepres.org/village-connect-small-group-ministries.html
Concerned about the environment and care for God’s creation? Visit the Environmental Action Committee web page at http://www.villagepres.org/environmental-action.html
Wondering about the myriad of music groups, choirs and ensembles and events? Find more information at
http://www.villagepres.org/music-ensembles.html
Seeking to participate in ministry with Presbyterian Women? Click this link http://www.villagepres.org/pw.html
Hoping to be involved in issues of social justice and action for God’s Kingdom? Contact the Social Witness and Advocacy Task Force here. http://www.villagepres.org/social-justice.html
Yearning to be a part of smaller group of adults for study and friendship? Seek out the Village Connect small group ministry here. http://www.villagepres.org/village-connect-small-group-ministries.html
MENEILLY VISITING SCHOLAR LECTURE SERIES
March 6-7, 2020
Village Church on Mission
Our Visiting Scholars are Rev. Dr. Margaret Aymer and Rev. Dr. Carolyn Helsel from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary
CLICK HERE to learn more about our 2020 Visiting Scholars.
Village Church on Mission
Our Visiting Scholars are Rev. Dr. Margaret Aymer and Rev. Dr. Carolyn Helsel from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary
CLICK HERE to learn more about our 2020 Visiting Scholars.
