B.A. Lincoln (Illinois) Christian College M.A. Hope International University (Fullerton, CA) Ordained 1977, Whiting, Indiana
Phil had his first thoughts about becoming a minister when he was 10 years old. Having served in churches of all sizes since 1977, the Warings chartered Chapel Bellavista, a church promoting constant contact with God, in 2000. A Christian lifestyle and personal relationships are encouraged to grow, not an institutional religion.
A former youth pastor and hospital chaplain, new church planter and pastor, Phil has been recognized for his leadership in the broader community. The Phoenix Jewish Federation selected him as an interfaith missionary to Israel in 1984. Phil was also chosen for a prior inspirational and educational trip to the Holy land and other Mediterranean Biblical sites led by Dr. Lloyd J. Ogilvie, the 61st chaplain of the U.S. Senate.
Listening to acoustic jazz is one of Phil’s greatest pastimes. He wins those trivia contests on KJZZ radio and has brought some of the valley’s jazz artists to Chapel Bellavista to enhance worship and other events.
A trumpet player himself, Phil’s most recent gigs involved playing taps at a police officer’s funeral and “God Bless America” for a Make-A-Wish charity dinner.
Phil and Gwen are both volunteers for the Foothills Caring Corps. Taking homebound neighbors to doctor appointments and driving the Corps bus to events and specialty shopping trips allow pleasant opportunities for service and fellowship in this community.
A good day for Phil includes a little Bible reading, a look over the prayer chart to make sure his life is focused, and maybe a therapeutic drive down the nearby Carefree Highway. There is so much to do with the Chapel, but he still enjoys lunch with his good friends and writing for various publications, especially The Wedding Chronicle.
Gwen is the perfect partner for Phil. Being able to work side by side with your best friend is such a blessing.