Community Church of the Verdes is continuing its series of music concerts with the final event, Candle in the Wind – The Elton John Experience Friday, Feb. 2, at 7 p.m. National touring tribute artists, the group 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 Elton himself. Tickets are $40 and may be purchased at the door.

The church is also hosting a series of inspirational speakers through February. Ron Joelson will be the speaker for the Community Church of the Verdes’ Men’s Retreat 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 its chief investment officer. Ron says he is now investing in the Kingdom as he shares some unique insights into the Tabernacle of Moses. Retreat registration will begin in this month.

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. Over six million Jews were exterminated, families like Dirk’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.