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A Sonnet for Palm Sunday
Malcolm Guite is an English poet and Anglican priest. This week I share with you his sonnet for Palm Sunday:
Now to the gate of my Jerusalem,
The seething holy city of my heart,
The saviour comes. But will I welcome him?
Oh crowds of easy feelings make a start;
They raise their hands, get caught up in the singing,
And think the battle won. Too soon they’ll find
The challenge, the reversal he is bringing
Changes their tune. I know what lies behind
The surface flourish that so quickly fades;
Self-interest, and fearful guardedness,
The hardness of the heart, its barricades,
And at the core, the dreadful emptiness
Of a perverted temple. Jesus come
Break my resistance and make me your home.
Grace and peace,
Will
Video Devotional: WWJD – What Would Jesus Do?
Do you remember the “WWJD” bracelets people wore in the 1990s? Perhaps you wore one, or you are still wearing one, to remind you that we should use Jesus as a model for living. What does Scripture say about modeling our lives on Jesus? Find out in this episode of “Scriptures for Life.”
Soli Deo Gloria!
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
Romans 12:12
We exist as a congregation to know Jesus Christ and to make Him known:
- To proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ so all may come to know and love Him;
- To nurture His people in joyful faith, fellowship, and commitment; and
- To demonstrate His way of love in service to the world.
We use the Connector to share news of the coming week and beyond, the activities that involve a wide range of ages and interests at FPC.
Coming Events | April 13-May 3, 2025
Saturday, April 12, at 10AM & Monday, April 14, at 6:30PM and – FPC Care for the Caregivers Support Group
In the journey of caregiving, the road can often feel lonely and overwhelming. Recognizing this, FPC’s Care for Caregivers was created as a haven for those who provide care to others but often may forget to care for themselves. The monthly meetings are dedicated to providing emotional, mental, and spiritual encouragement to those who care for aging parents, family members with chronic illnesses, or loved ones with disabilities.
If you’re a caregiver (current or previous), consider attending a meeting. The meetings are drop-in style. Newcomers are always welcome. You can choose to share or just listen. Meetings are usually in the Chapel, however during Lenten Season we will be meeting in Room 204, once on the second Monday of the month at 6:30pm, and once on the second Saturday of the month at 10:00am. If one of these times do not work for you, please let us know. To learn more, contact Marcia Chase, marchase@icloud.com or call/text at cell # (334)444-6610 and leave a message during work hours. Or just drop in to a meeting.
Remember: You’re not alone, and it’s okay to take time to care for yourself too!
Sunday, April 13, 9AM or 10AM – Palm Sunday
Come celebrate Palm Sunday with us on Sunday, April 13 as we remember Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem!
📍 9:00 AM – Chapel
📍 10:00 AM – Sanctuary
Wave your palms, lift your voices, and prepare your hearts for Holy Week. We’d love to worship with you!
Sunday, April 13 from 9-10AM – Adult Lenten Sunday School
Join us for the final Adult Lenten Sunday School session of the series, this Sunday, April 13 at 9 AM, as we journey through He Chose the Nails by Max Lucado. Together, we’ll reflect on the profound gifts Christ gave us through his crucifixion—gifts of grace, love, and sacrifice, symbolized by the cross, the thorns, the nails, and the empty tomb. Through powerful video sessions and meaningful discussions, we’ll be reminded of God’s whisper: “I did it just for you.”
Mondays, from 1-2:30PM – Light Team
The Light Team is currently doing a six-week series on “The Last Days of Jesus.” Walk with Jesus this Lenten season as He prepares His disciples for His death. This series includes historical and cultural background, a closer look at Biblical text, and then applying the lessons to your life. All women are invited to join for connection time. Please contact Lynda Bennin blbennin@tds.net for more info.
Tuesdays through April 15 – 8-Week Bible Study: Mark Part Two – Led by Pastor Will
Name of Study: “Mark”- Abingdon New Testament Commentaries
When: Every Tuesday, through April 15 – 7:30 am start time with hard stop @ 8:30 am
Location: M-N-M’s Coffeehouse, 509 W. Main St., Waunakee
Bible Study Leader: Pastor Will Wilson
Overview: After taking a short break over the Advent season, we resumed the second half of our 8-week study (chapters #9-16) on Mark’s Gospel led by Pastor Will Wilson at M-N-M’s Coffeehouse.
Please contact Jim Fitzgerald if you would like to join or have any questions.
Wednesdays, from 7-8:30PM – FPC Men’s Ministry Group
FPC Men’s Ministry Group has started a new video series by Jon Ortberg called “Who Is This Man?” In this five-session video-based study, Ortberg shows how Jesus’ influence has swept over history, bringing his inspiration to the fields of art, science, government, medicine and education. And how his vision for us to lead lives of dignity, compassion, forgiveness and hope continues to inspire and challenge humanity today.
All men are welcome and please contact David Sliwicki david.sliwicki@gmail.com for more info.
Thursday, April 17, from 1-2:30PM – Quilters Meeting
Calling all quilting enthusiasts! Our monthly quilters’ gatherings are a perfect blend of creativity, connection, and purpose. Meetings feature plenty of socializing, a fun “Show & Tell” of our latest quilt creations, and helpful discussions to tackle any quilting challenges or questions.
In addition to sharing tips and inspiration, our group supports FPC’s Deacon’s Prayer Shawl & Quilt Ministry by crafting heartfelt Prayer Quilts to bless those in need. We also host one or two Sewing Days each year for extended fellowship and focused quilting projects.
Whether you’re an experienced quilter or just curious to learn, all are welcome. Come for the creativity—stay for the community! Contact Anne Frihart for more information.
Thursday, April 17, 7-8PM – Maundy Thursday Worship Service
Join us for our Maundy Thursday worship service on Thursday, April 17, at 7 PM in the Sanctuary. This meaningful service invites us to reflect on the Last Supper, Jesus’ command to love one another, and His journey to the cross. Through Scripture, prayer, and communion, we remember Christ’s sacrifice and the depth of His love. Come and prepare your heart for Easter as we worship together.
Maundy Thursday, observed during Holy Week, commemorates the night Jesus shared the Last Supper with His disciples before His arrest. The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin mandatum, meaning “commandment,” referring to Jesus’ words in John 13:34: “A new command I give you: Love one another.” This night also reminds us of Jesus humbly washing His disciples’ feet, demonstrating servant-hearted love.
Friday, April 18, Noon to 3PM – Good Friday
On Good Friday, April 18, FPC’s Chapel will be open from Noon to 3 PM for a time of quiet reflection and prayer. Whether you stay for a few moments or linger in the stillness, we invite you to come as you are and spend time in the presence of God.
All are welcome.
Sunday, April 20, 8AM or 10AM – Easter Sunday Worship
Celebrate the joy of Easter with us on Sunday, April 20! We will offer two worship services at 8 AM and 10 AM in the Sanctuary as we rejoice in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is a time of hope, renewal, and victory over sin and death—come and worship with us as we proclaim, “He is risen!” Both services will feature uplifting music, Scripture, and a message of resurrection hope. Invite your family and friends to join us for this special morning of celebration!
April 22-23: Photo Directory Sessions!
It’s time for our new directory! It will not be complete without you!
Follow these steps to make your appointment:
- Visit www.ucdir.com
- Enter Church code: WI393 (wi as in Wisconsin)
- Enter the password: photos (all lowercase)
We will offer two photo session dates:
April 22 or 23.
Everyone photographed will receive a complimentary 8×10 portrait. Additional portraits will be available for purchase on the day of the photo session.
Saturday, April 26 – 9AM-Noon – FPC Spring Clean-up
The buildings and Grounds and Grow teams are having our Spring Clean up day on Saturday, April 26th. Please come join us in Sprucing up the outside grounds of the Church after a tough winter. Bring work gloves, rakes, and clippers and we will have assignments given out once you arrive.
Sunday, April 27 – 10AM – Confirmation Sunday
You’re invited to a very special Worship service on Sunday, April 27, as we celebrate Confirmation Sunday at FPC! Come and be inspired as our Confirmands share their personal testimonies and take this important step in their faith journey.
Immediately following the service, we’ll gather for a Potluck Lunch in Fellowship Hall. Bring a dish to share and enjoy good food and fellowship as we celebrate our Confirmands together!
Let’s pack the pews and show these young people our love and support—see you there!
For questions please contact Amy Lewis at amylewisfpc@gmail.com
Sunday, April 27 during the 10am service – Jesus Storybook Bible Presentations (4K-Kindergarten)
If you have a child in 4k or Kindergarten who has not received a “Jesus Storybook Bible,” please contact Peter Bergmann info@myfpc.org. Bible Presentations will take place during the 10am service on April 27. Please save the date or let Peter know if you can’t attend – we still want your child to have a Bible!
Tuesdays, starting April 29 – New 5-Week Bible Study: Psalms – Led by Pastor Will
Name of Study: “Psalms as a Grammar for Faith”
When: Every Tuesday, from April 29-June 3 – 7:30 am start time with hard stop @ 8:30 am
Location: M-N-M’s Coffeehouse, 509 W. Main St., Waunakee
Bible Study Leader: Pastor Will Wilson
Overview: Pastor Will plans to begin preaching a new sermon series around the Psalms beginning in May and concluding in mid-June. Much like we did with our study on Mark, our new study around the Psalms will coincide nicely with his sermons. As we study the Psalms together, Pastor Will is recommending that along with our Bibles, which we use for our reading reference. A book he’s studied previously from his Baylor days; “Psalms as a Grammar for Faith: Prayer and Praise” by W.H.Bellinger Jr. This book has five chapters and gives good orientation to the Psalter as a whole in a scholarly way that is yet accessible for the layperson. Cost of the book is $29.95 on Amazon Prime. Please know FPC would help offset this cost for anyone who might have interest and/or a need to do so
Please contact Jim Fitzgerald if you would like to join or have any questions.
Save the Date | More Info to come
Monday-Thursday, May 19-22 from 9AM-4PM – Sewing Days
Bring your sewing machine and other supplies and work on Prayer Quilts for the Church. Questions? Contact Anne Frihart.
Monday, May 26 – Church Office Closed for Memorial Day
The FPC office will be closed on Monday, May 26 for Memorial Day.
Opportunities to Serve
Throughout April – WNC Toiletry Drive
FPC is collecting toiletry items for Waunakee Neighborhood Connection throughout April. Drop donations in the collection box at church all month long. Thank you in advance!
Administrative Assistant – 25 hours per week, Monday-Thursday
Purpose: To perform clerical and administrative tasks that will support the overall function and activities of the church and oversee all activites of the church office. The Administrative Assistant must create an environment that is inviting to anyone calling or visiting the church office and comforting to those who may be dealing with difficult life situations.
Skills & Qualifications:
1. Is a committed Christian of strong faith, dedicated discipleship, and love of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, who is seeking to live a life commensurate with this faith.
2. Professional with outstanding interpersonal skills with the ability to deal tactfully and compassionately with people; possess a pleasant and welcoming manner.
3. Excellent clerical, communication, and organizational skills with attention to detail.
4. Strong knowledge of computers including Microsoft office programs and internet research. Previous experience with databases is helpful.
5. Experience with and ability to use a multi-line telephone system.
6. Highly effective verbal and written communication skills.
7. Must be able to discern needs, take initiative, prioritize and multi-task.
8. Ability to establish and maintain consistently positive working relationships with church members, staff, visitors, officers, leaders, volunteers, and all others.
9. Must be reliable, responsible, flexible, adaptable, possess a sense of humor, and be a team player in an atmosphere that demands confidentiality, loyalty, and a true team spirit.
Benefits:
FPC offers an array of benefits for part-time employees, and are dependent on hours worked including vision insurance; paid time off; paid holidays; retirement savings plan; group life insurance; long-term disability; and bereavement leave.
Responsibilities:
• Greet and direct all visitors, members, and service technicians/vendors and assist them as needed during office hours. Program doors for building access.
• Answer office phones, ensuring that calls are answered personally during office hours and that callers receive courteous, caring, and accurate service.
• Manage phone system including accurately routing calls, checking/delivering messages, returning calls, and updating voice mail greeting and instructions.
• Maintain the Senior Pastor’s calendar, keeping it up-to-date and coordinate meetings with staff, members and others.
• Coordinate details and logistics for events such as baptisms, funerals, and weddings interacting with families/members, the pastor, staff, volunteers, and outside entities as needed. This could include the coordination of food, special bulletins, audio/visual support, etc.
• Coordinate administrative tasks for Session/officers including preparing monthly Session packets, assemble training materials, and assist Senior Pastor in coordinating training sessions for new Elders/Session members.
• Utilize church management software to maintain all membership records (including baptisms, confirmation, marriages, deaths, and membership status, military service list, etc.) and maintain contact lists for staff, Elders and Deacons.
• Pick up, sort and distribute incoming mail.
• Assist with correspondence and outgoing mailings. This includes preparing and sending out birthday cards, new member welcome letters, follow up correspondence to visitors, and full-member mailings (Advent mailing, stewardship letter/pledge cards, etc) as directed by the Senior Pastor, staff or Elders/officers.
• Maintain inventory of congregational, office, and janitorial supplies and reorder as needed. Keep office supplies organized and make materials and supplies available to staff, leaders and volunteers as needed.
• Operate and regularly clean office equipment (including copiers, printers, etc), scheduling maintenance or repairs as needed. Coordinate with Buildings & Grounds Elder to schedule repairs and maintenance and/or emergency service as needed (including elevator service, plumbers, etc).
• Coordinate building rentals/usage, advising and coordinating room setups with Building & Grounds Elder.
• Contact and schedule volunteers needed for office staff relief and large mailings; actively assist in training new office volunteers, maintaining an up-to-date contact list.
• Coordinate/schedule staff outings and birthday recognitions as requested.
• Maintain files and records as they pertain to this position.
• Other special projects or assignments as needed and/or assigned.
Join FPC Waunakee as Our Full-Time Director of Children and Family Ministry!
Are you a cheerleader for God with a love for working with kids and families? Then First Presbyterian Church (FPC) is for YOU!
As our Director of Children and Family Ministry, you’ll be:
• A fun and positive leader – ready to inspire and build on an already awesome program and community.
• Enthusiastic – leading fun programs and engaging families and volunteers
• A communicator – sharing God’s love with kids in ways that make them laugh, learn, and grow.
• A multitasker – juggling volunteers, events, and goldfish crackers like a pro.
• A guardian of safety and security – because peace of mind is priceless.
You’ll thrive here if you:
✓ Love working with kids (bonus points if you know how to turn a sticky situation into a teaching moment).
✓ Are organized, self-motivated, and great at delegating.
✓ Believe in the power of teamwork and collaboration with an amazing staff and company culture.
✓ Have a knack for listening, inspiring others, and leading change with a smile.
We’re offering a chance to lead with purpose, grow in your faith, and make a lasting impact. Plus, there’s coffee in the break room and probably some leftover cookies from Sunday school.
Ready to bring your joy, energy, and vision to First Presbyterian Church Waunakee? Let’s build a ministry that kids love and parents cheer for!
Position is 40 hours, full-time, can be hybrid-other than most Sundays. Competitive salary and benefits!
Hammers with Halos
Want to help others with minor household repairs, maintenance or yard work? Contact the church office or any of the Deacons. Your name will be added to a call list and you may be contacted to see if you can help when a request is received.
Sunday Worship House Manager
FPC of Waunakee is seeking dedicated volunteers to fulfill the role of “House Manager” during our Sunday services. This position involves ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for our congregation by monitoring our facilities and surroundings. Volunteers will be attentive and proactive, keeping an eye out for any potential concerns that may arise. We value a calm and composed demeanor, as well as strong communication and observational skills. If you are passionate about contributing to a secure and peaceful worship experience, please consider joining our House Manager team.
Sound Desk Assistant Needed
We invite you to join our dynamic worship team as a Sound Desk Assistant! Play a crucial role in enhancing our Sunday worship services by ensuring a seamless audio/visual experience for the congregation both in-person and at home. Take turns with fellow volunteers and enjoy a unique opportunity to be part of our vibrant worship atmosphere! If you are interested or would like more information, please contact info@myfpc.org
Agrace Volunteers Needed
Volunteers are needed to assist customers and operate the cash register at the Doc Rock Café located inside the Agrace Madison campus or make companionship visits to local Agrace hospice patients in patients’ homes, nursing homes or assisted living centers.
Schedules are flexible, and free training is provided. Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Agrace at (608) 327-7163 or visit Agrace.org/Volunteer to apply online.
Help Needed! The Waunakee Food Pantry is looking for volunteers the last Wednesday of each month
Did you know that the food pantry serves ~200 families each month? Our church has a long history of supporting the Waunakee food pantry. Our FPC church has been given the last Wednesday of every month from 4-6 pm to distribute food. This is a great way to connect with fellow members and serve the community. If you are interested, please fill out the volunteer form on the FPC website, or talk with Sheryll Gehrmann for more details.
Unable to volunteer? Here’s the list of items most needed this month:
- Toilet Paper
- Kleenex
- Mandarin Oranges
- Canned Peaches
- Pasta Sauce
- Strawberry Jam
- Ketchup
- Cereal
The pantry is always looking for paper grocery bags as well. Items can be placed in the shopping cart at the entrance by the Education wing.
News and Announcements
Session met on March 1. The purpose of the meeting was to review communications received related to Ezrah Schmeelk’s resignation, and determine next step to ensure continuity with the youth program.
Session met on March 18 for its regularly scheduled meeting. Brian and Cathy Wolhaupter, attended as potential new members. Rev. Devon Reynolds, Executive Presbyter, JKP also attended as a guest. Deacon attendees were David Good, Beth Mueller, Lisa Lerdahl, Maeline Schall, and Kristy Drewry.
Pastor Will’s devotion was from Genesis 15:1-12. “Fear not, for I am your shield.” Sometimes we may have the feeling, “Make it Stop!” — either in our personal lives, or as we see what’s going on in the country or world around us. Genesis reminds us to be courageous with God’s protection.
Deacons Report
The Deacons attended for their annual meeting with the Session. The group is led by deacon David Good.
The deacons are a support organization for FPC church members. Traditionally, they have helped members through difficult times, but are now also seeking to celebrate and emphasize joys. They want to be our members’ cheerleader in happy things. They also coordinate the prayer list, prayer shawls, and care packages for students and military. They provide meals for those in need and have to set up a system where meals are premade and available in the freezer. They also provide care for caregivers, and serve wherever else they are needed to support our members.
The deacons who were able to attend talked about their areas of focus.
- Beth Mueller: Leads Hammers with Halos, which has extended to assistance with moves and computer set-ups/help
- Kristy Drewry: Coordinates rides for those who need them to church and other places, also seeks to find ways to connect the elderly with other members
- Lisa Lerdahl: Organizes funerals and funeral luncheons, and “Muffin Madness” for those 75 and older. Has found that delivery of muffins provides a good opportunity for connection and conversation.
- Maeline Schall: Card ministry
The Session thanked the deacons for their ministry.
Pastor’s Moment
- Saw about 40 in attendance at last week’s 9 a.m. Sunday service
- Had a positive, refreshing time at Princeton. Was able to meet with Dr. Craig Barnes.
- Working through personnel issues.
- Discussion with session on Memorial Day wreath laying. Will do at end of service before benediction.
New Members
Wes Ray introduced Brian and Cathy Wolhaupter as potential new members. Each recounted their faith journey and motivation to become a member of FPC.
Consent Action Items: M/S/A Unanimous
- Approve membership of Brian and Cathy Wolhaupter
- Remove the Lutes family from membership, transfer to Christ Presbyterian in Madison
- Remove of Christa and Finn Schmeelk from FPC membership
- Approve current nursery staff Michelle and/or Jennifer to assist in the organization and execution of VBS, utilizing unused Children’s Ministry Director funds
- Approve baptism of Annie Plantz and Aria Shefchik on April 13, 2025
- Approve Session meeting with Confirmands on April 26, 2025, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Finance
Reported that we have D&O insurance coverage of $1M. Current pledges: $16,800 increase to $600,216, which is closer to our 2025 budgeted goal of $604,000. We recently recovered some missing pledge cards. Pledge giving through February is at 108.72%. General fund balance is $70,477. Income versus expenses for all funds is $203,591. Income versus expenses for the general fund only is -$9,475.
Working on conversion of membership records to ACS realm, our new church software, as well as annual FSA non-discrimination testing and scanning safe deposit box contents.
Worship and Music
Last month’s focus has been on Lenten services and Midweek Mana. Both are going well.
Children’s Ministry
Working on organization for VBS. Angela Himegarner will help lead VBS, connecting with Michelle and Jennifer as liaisons. CM is hosting the Lenten dinner on April 2.
Building and Grounds
Volunteers are finishing up the work on various storage spaces throughout the building. Looking ahead, will be getting the church ready for spring cleanup and summer air conditioning season. Recently, a dumpster showed up in our yard that was not intended for FPC. Worked to get it sent to the right site (nearby home construction).
Personnel
We have one qualified candidate for the Children and Family Ministry Director position, who currently works at the Lighthouse School in Madison. Will be working through the interview process.
Jamie Roberts is getting new members’ information into the Discovery tool.
Looking ahead, the Personnel Committee will be reviewing the full PTO policy in an effort to clarify and simplify. It is very complex and time-consuming to administer as currently written and tracked.
Personnel will be using the Celerity Staffing Agency to do recruiting and screening for the open administrative assistant role.
Stewardship
Barbara met with Bill Baker to discuss two proposed planned giving events in 2025. Bill will be taking the lead on this. The group is currently working on a new campaign to finish the parking lot and getting some ideas for the fall campaign.
Student Ministry
Many volunteers have stepped up to help keep things going in student ministry.
Confirmation: The schedule for confirmation is set, thanks to the confirmation mentors (Angela, Tim, Chez, Liz), Pastor Will and Pastor Ben. The youth worship band will play on Confirmation Sunday.
Sunday school: Many thanks to Peter Bergmann, Angela Himegarner and Pastor Will for filling in. Attendance for Cocoa and Conversation has always been low and we may drop this for the rest of the academic year.
Guatemala mission trip: Sincere thanks to Julie Cable for compiling the documentation and outlining key deadlines for the Guatemala mission trip. Tryg Knutson has graciously taken the lead on this. As of March 11, we have 27 participants – Tryg, with four parent leaders and 22 students. A couple of students have withdrawn. We may be adding another female leader. We are tremendously grateful to Tryg Knutson for taking this on.
Wednesday evening youth group: Larry Keen and the team (Chez Phelps, Cherith Brown, Brett Cable) are continuing to lead Wednesday evenings. 20 students attended on February 26, and 13 on March 5 (freezing rain). There will be 1-2 summer activities. It is an engaged group and they’re in good shape through the end of the school year.
Reviewing the position description for the Director of Student Ministry and hope to have it posted soon.
Adult Nurture and Spiritual Growth
Reviewed the 2025 winter/spring program calendars for adult small group ministries. The majority of the groups will continue to meet through middle May and then will take a break over the summer. The women’s Light Team will continue to meet through June.
We’re reevaluating the “Theology on Tap” program and may only offer this over the summer months. We’ll begin a combined adult Sunday school study during Lent around the Max Lucado videos series “He Chose the Nails” that will begin on March 16.
Evaluating options to follow up offer a follow-up Centering Prayer workshop during fall. We have paused our current sessions due to lack of support/attendance. We restarted the eight-week Tuesday morning Bible study on Mark, which will go through Easter week (April 15). Looking ahead we’re beginning to discuss several church-wide events we’d like to bring forward late 2025/early 2026, including a women’s speaker breakfast and a men’s event.
Nominating Committee
Jim said the Nominating Committee is making good progress. They hope to bring candidates’ names to the April session meeting.
Mission
Tryg Knutson and Emily Bauer were invited to the Mission team meeting to discuss Guatemala trip coordination. At the same meeting, discussed the “Love in Action” day, including review of successes and learnings for the future. Introduced various Presbyterian mission funding campaigns, with the plan to continue learning more about these to decide which ones might fit with Mission’s and FPC’s purpose and goals. We’re hoping to highlight the Waunakee Food Pantry in a fun way in May. Mission made a donation in support of the student mission trip.
Fellowship
All the Wednesday night Lenten suppers have a sponsor. Have had great attendance for the first supper, with about 80 attendees. Still making final plans and preparations for these suppers which will continue on Wednesday evenings through April 9.
Working on forming a new fellowship team, getting the BUNN coffee machines serviced, and recently defrosted the freezer in the basement kitchen.
New Member Outreach
April 27 is the next quarterly “All About FPC” meeting. New dates for photos sessions for the church directory have been added – April 22 and 23.
Care letters were signed, and prayers were said for the receivers.
Session met on April 1. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss a potential candidate for the Director of Children’s and Family Ministries. The session gave approval to go ahead with an offer for the candidate.
A Suite Deal
On March 10th the Bible Study Babes (BSB), an FPC small group, completed a service project by participating in the “Adopt A Suite” program at Shelter From the Storm in Sun Prairie, WI. Back in October of 2024, BSB received a supply list and the shopping began! There was a delay in the set-up at Shelter From the Storm because of water damage. However, in February we got the March date for the suite and were able to create a new and safe place for a Mom and her kiddos. The stay for the family is usually 6-9 months and they get to take all of the purchases with them.
A little more about our group…for 14 years the Baby Study Babes have been meeting as a group. They originally formed as the “Working Women’s Group” when FPC first started “small groups”. However, as the group members began to retire from their jobs, the name had to change. The mission for BSB has always centered around the 3 S’s…study, social and service.
Thanks to Kathy Kuehn for taking the lead on this project. In addition to Kathy the other “Babes” are Teresa Ripp, Julie Fiers, Theresa Grams, Pam Knutson, Lolly Lawrence, Carla Myers, Cheryl Olsen, Connie Pelton, and Liz Weller. So blessed to have a chance to work together, giving hope, cool decor and a new beginning to a Mom and her family.
This Week’s Birthdays: April 13-19
This Week’s Anniversaries: April 13-19
FPC Nursery for Ages 3 and under
Nursery Age 3 and Under – Room 200
The Nursery is available on Sundays during Lent from 8:45 – 11:00 AM, is staffed by church staff and volunteers who love children and want to share God’s love with them.
Music in Worship
April 13: 9AM – Palm Sunday – Beth Wagner, guest pianist
April 13: 10AM – Palm Sunday – FPC Choir, Ying Wang & Mary Kay Burton, guest organist
April 17: 7PM – Maundy Thursday – FPC Choir & Ying Wang
April 20: 8AM – Easter Sunday – Beth Wagner, guest pianist and Diane Robinson, vocalist
April 20: 10AM – Easter Sunday – FPC Choir, Joyful Noise, and Ying Wang
April 27 – Youth Band & Ying Wang
Praise Song of the Week
This week’s praise song, Shout to the Lord, is a song of pure worship, born from a place of desperation and surrender. Written by Darlene Zschech in a moment of personal struggle, she simply sat at her piano and poured out praise, saying, “I went to worship my God when I was at the end of myself.” The song quickly became a global anthem, reminding believers that worship has the power to refocus our hearts on God’s greatness. Its lyrics proclaim His majesty and call us to lift our voices regardless of circumstances. As we sing, “Nothing compares to the promise I have in You,” we declare our trust in the unshakable faithfulness of God. How can we cultivate a spirit of worship that remains steadfast, even in our most difficult seasons?
When life is hard you need more than a cute poster.
If you are Having a tough time with:
• Dealing with family problems
• Chronic or terminal illness in your family
• Grief
• Loneliness
• Divorce recovery
FPC has a group of Stephen Minister Caregivers trained to walk with you through these problems. They help you: think things through, find resources available, look for a Biblical view of the problem, pray for you and with you if you wish. The 50 hours of training has provided them with an understanding of reflective listening, boundaries, and the importance of absolute confidentiality.
Since it’s beginning in 2017, Stephen Ministries helped hundreds of people both from FPC and the wider community journey, through tough times. If you want more information, you can talk to a pastor, a deacon, or one of the active Stephen Ministers listed below.
Tryg Knutson – 608-622-9539
Jill Umlauf – 715-360-5962
FPC Stephen Ministry is here for you!
Want to receive an email notification when the weekly Connector is updated? Sign up here!
Connect with the Connector!
In an effort to streamline the process for submitting requests for event announcements in the Connector or spoken during the worship service, Communications has developed this easy-to-use online form to share all of your important information.
Click the link below to check out the form and if you have any feedback or questions, please send an email to communications@myfpc.org.
The Connector is available in print at the Connection Corner in the Lobby for those who would like a printed copy.
Contact the FPC Church office if you would like to be added to our home bound mailing list and receive the printed version of the Connector each week.
The Connector comes out at 4 PM every Friday. The deadline for submissions is noon, the Wednesday prior.
