Community Church of the Verdes is continuing its series of music concerts for January and February and is adding a series of lectures for the season.

The remaining concerts are Jim Curry with his Tribute to John Denver on Friday, Jan. 12, at 7 p.m.

Curry returns to perform the music of the late John Denver. The music “is like an old friend, outlasting trends and standing the test of time,” says Curry. Tickets are $40 and may be purchased at the door.

Candle in the Wind – The Elton John Experience will perform Friday, Feb. 2, at 7 p.m. National touring tribute artists, Candle in The Wind, The Elton John Experience performs the ultimate tribute to the music of Elton and his songwriting partner, Bernie Taupin.

Jeff Burkett, as Sir Elton John, brings his portrayal of the iconic artist and his music to the stage, as well as an uncanny resemblance to the performer himself. Tickets are $40 and may be purchased at the door.

The church is also hosting a series of inspirational speakers beginning on Monday, Jan. 15, with Dr. Elizabeth Sanders with her presentation, “The Goal was Peace.”

Dr. Sanders rescued her daughter from Dubai and had to completely change her identity to protect her.  Forgiveness came later.

Don Joelson will be the speaker for the Community Church of the Verdes Men’s Retreat on Saturday, Jan. 27, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Joelson is a messianic Jew who recently retired from Northwestern Mutual as their chief investment officer. Joelson says he is now investing in the kingdom as he shares some unique insights into the Tabernacle of Moses. Retreat registration will begin in January.

Dirk Van Leenen will present “Resistance on a Bicycle” on Monday, Feb. 12, at 4 p.m.

Van Leenen’s life story tells of growing up during World War II, the invasion of Holland, and how history is repeating itself. Life was full of adventure, courage and constant fear. More than six million Jews were exterminated, families like Van Leenen’s risked their own lives to rescue, hide, and re-locate them. Deep, abiding Christian faith sustained them and their devotion to assist the refugees.

Dr. Peter Vogt will discuss “Social Justice and the Christian” on Monday, Feb. 19, at 4 p.m.

The issue of social justice has become a controversial political topic in the U.S. Christians seeking to navigate these turbulent waters can find themselves confused about whether social justice is an inherently secular, political agenda that threatens the health and mission of the church, or if it is part of the calling of the people of God. This presentation will look at key Old Testament texts and concepts and provide help in how to think about this issue.

The speaker series closes out on Monday, Feb. 26, with Sarah Porter discussing “Water in Arizona: What’s gone right, and what should we be worried about?”

Porter is Director of the Kyl Center for Water Policy at Arizona State University’s Morrison Institute for Public Policy and Professor of Practice in ASU’s College of Global Futures.

All concerts and lectures take place at the Community Church of the Verdes on Danny Lane.