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Out of the Comfort Zone and into Blessings
Again, during these 50 Great Days of Easter, I am giving us testimonies from folks that I have known who were asked to respond to the question: “Who is Jesus to you?” Here is the witness from a woman I will name as Beverly:
In 2008 when my husband passed away, I remember telling him it was okay if he had to go, because I would be okay.
Now, at the time those were just brave words that I knew he had to hear, but I wasn’t so sure were true. After all, I’d just lost my very best friend.
That was when I really had to start again drawing on my faith. So, I did lots of praying to God to give me strength. I’ve been very blessed to have a strong family and friend support group, but it was also the time that I knew I had to again get more connected with God.
I started going back to church, got involved with mission, and when I was asked to become a Deacon three years ago, I decided to say yes.
This is my last year of being a Deacon, and I even stepped up to the plate and said I’d be the Moderator my final year!
This was going way out of my comfort zone, but it felt right. It has been a privilege to work with these wonderful people, and has given me a deep feeling of being where I need to be.
Who knows where this journey will take me, but I know it will a very fulfilling and rewarding journey.
Beverly’s witness helps us imagine “going way out of our comfort zones”.
God is not done with us or our church yet.
Peace,
Pastor Glen
Video Devotional: A Whale of a Story About Jonah!
Too many people dismiss the story of Jonah, thinking it is a story designed for children, and miss the important lessons for today in this whale of a story. Find out more 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 | Apr. 14 – May 4, 2024
THIS SUNDAY, April 14 from 11:30AM-1:30PM – What’s Cookin at FPC?
Tryg Knutson will be teaching us how to make Lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread, on Sunday, April 14 in the Fellowship Hall: 11:30-1:30pm We will have a simple lunch together after service and then learn how to make Lefse together. This will be hands on– and you will get flour on yourself, so dress accordingly or feel free to bring an apron! Please RSVP to Christa at cschmeelk@myfpc.org
THIS SUNDAY, April 14 during the 10am service – Jesus Storybook Bible Presentations (4K-Kindergarten)
If you have a child in 4k or Kindergarten who have not received a “Jesus Storybook Bible,” please contact Christa Schmeelk cschmeelk@myfpc.org. Bible Presentations will take place during the 10am service on April 14. Please save the date or let Christa know if you can’t attend – we still want your child to have a Bible!
Mondays, through April 29 from 1PM-2:30PM – Light Team Meeting
We are currently watching Season one of The Chosen. The Chosen is a multi-season television drama about the life of Jesus Christ. The first season introduces Jesus and the calling of His initial disciples. All, including men, are invited to watch this wonderful series with the Light Team.
Light Team is open to all women on Mondays @ 1 pm. There will be time for lots of fellowship, treats, and no homework!
April 15: Watch Season 1, episode 1
April 22: Watch Season 1, episode 2
April 29: Lunch at MNM’s at 11:30AM
May 6: Watch Season 1, episode 3
May 13: Watch Season 1, episode 4
May 20: Watch Season 1, episode 5
Email Lynda if you’d like to join Light Team at blbennin@tds.net
Wednesdays, through May 29 at 8:30AM – Women’s Bible Study
The Wednesday Morning Women’s Bible Study Group is made up of women from the surrounding community at large. All are welcome. Meet us on Wednesdays 8:30 – 10:00 AM in Fellowship Hall in the lower level of FPC. Contact Beth Stellmacher for more info: bstell122515@tds.net.
Wednesdays at 7PM – Men’s Ministry
Men’s Ministry is a multi-generational group of men committed to exploring matters of Faith, Purpose and Connection. The group meets year round on Wednesdays from 7PM to approximately 8:15PM at the church and also plans off-site opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and community service. All men are welcome.
Join our Men’s Group on Wednesday evenings from 7-8:30PM in the Gathering Area at FPC (by the fireplace.) We will be going through DVD Video series “The Discipleship Playbook” by Dr. Paul David Tripp which is a 9 session Men’s Bible Study that will share stories & testimonies from several faith based professional football players on what it means to live life as a true disciple!
Please contact Jim Fitzgerald at jnj57012@gmsil.com or David Sliwicki at david.sliwicki@gmail for carpooling information and to find out more about FPCs Mens Group. All men are welcome to join us!
Friday, April 19 at 6PM – Ladies Dining Out at Amber Indian Restaurant
Women! You are invited to come to dinner at Amber Indian Restaurant on 6pm on Friday, April 19 in Middleton. Please RSVP to Christa Schmeelk so we have enough seats. If you are unsure about Indian food, Christa would LOVE to help you find something you would like ahead of time: cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Sunday, April 21 at 3PM – Theology on Tap at Octopi Brewing
Join us for a casual gathering that is centered around food/drinks, connection, and conversation on a deep faith topic. All Aged 21+ are welcome!
Contact Christa or Ezrah for more info: cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Sunday, April 21 at 3PM – MOMCo
Attention all moms, no matter what season of life you are in, join our mom community for monthly gatherings as well as social events. Contact Patricia Coley for more information!
Future MOMCo Meeting Dates: May 19
Save the Date | More Info to come
Sunday, May 5 during the 10am service – FPC’s annual First Public Communion
FPC’s annual First Public Communion will be on Sunday, May 5 during the 10am service. For more information or to sign up, just email Christa Schmeelk! For those interested, we will have a First Communion Parent and Child Meeting following the worship service on Sunday, April 21 at 11am in the Chapel.
SAVE THE DATE! Sunday, May 5 – All About FPC
All About FPC – Have you ever wanted to know more about FPC? Are you interested in exploring membership here at FPC? If your answer is yes, then please mark your calendars for Sunday, May 5. We will meet right after church. Lunch is provided. If you need childcare, let us know in advance. We will meet in the Chapel. For more information or to rsvp, talk to Pastor Glen or Elder Wes Ray or email Christa: cschmeelk@myfpc.org.
Monday, May 6 at 6:30PM – Centering Prayer
The Centering Prayer group will meet in the Chapel on the first Monday of each month at 6:30 PM for two 20 minute “sits”. For those who want to “learn by doing,” please come at 6 PM to get oriented. For questions, please contact Pastor Glen.
Saturday, May 11 at 10AM and Monday, May 13 at 6:30PM –
FPC Care for the Caregivers Support Group
Sometimes we need someone to walk with us, someone who is experiencing the same path of caregiving. Someone to share ups and downs with, and possibly offer advice.
Are you or were you a caregiver? Let’s lean on each other and learn from each other as a group of Christians. Our FPC group is small but mighty, always welcoming any newcomers. The group is offered once a month. Stop in when you can, you choose to share or listen, it’s up to you. We meet in the Chapel, once on the second Monday of the month at 6:30pm, and once on the second Saturday of the month at 10:00am. The discussions held in the meetings are confidential, people can speak freely.
Attendee Lori Phelps has said, “This is my therapy and is so helpful for my mental health as I care for my parents! I walk away with a clearer mind and fresh ideas (an indoor garden kit for my dad! I didn’t know these existed! And a binder for my mom titled, When I start feeling bored, I can…). I’m so grateful for Marcia creating and conducting this group! She is a great listener, and she cares. She’s been through the same experiences so we can talk, laugh, or cry through the ups and downs. I feel like this group is so beneficial but seems to be the best kept secret. We should spread the word for others to benefit too!”
Caregivers (current or previous) – join us any month you can! If you have questions, or if these dates and times won’t work for you, please contact Marcia Chase, marchase@icloud.com or call 849-5683 and leave a message during work hours.
Saturday, May 18 at 9AM – FPC Spring Cleaning
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and make a difference! Join us bright and early on Saturday, May 18th at 9 AM for the FPC Spring Cleaning event. Let’s beautify our church grounds together– from trimming trees to spreading mulch, every hand makes a huge impact. Contact Building and Grounds Elder RJ for more details and be part of this uplifting church-wide effort!
Monday, May 27 – FPC Church Office will be closed
The FPC Church office will be closed for Memorial Day.
Sunday, June 2 following worship – All Church Congregational Meeting
More details and agenda items to come. Stay tuned!
Sunday, June 9-Tuesday, June 11 from 5PM-7:30PM – VBS 2024!
We are bringing back dinner this year! Dinner will be served from 5:00-5:25 p.m.
Look forward to the usual favorites of Opening and Closing with amazing music, silly skits, singing, dancing, Bible Adventures, science experiments, Games, Bible Buddies, and so much more!
Join our dive team! Join us on our underwater journey and help create an unforgettable experience!
Opportunities to Serve
Adopt-a-Spot
We are looking for outdoor caretakers for specific spots around FPC this year! Adopting a spot will include a commitment to keeping your spot weed free during the 2024 growing season. You can bring your own tools or use FPC’s tools- there is a shed out back with all the tools/wheel barrows you might need. We keep it locked, but can easily unlock it for you with notice.
If you have any questions or would like to sign up, please contact Christa Schmeelk (cschmeelk@myfpc.org) or RJ Binau or simply sign up in the Lobby and we’ll contact you! Thank you for stewarding the land!
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.
Volunteers and Subs needed in the Nursery
Our Children’s Ministry needs more monthly volunteers and subs in the Nursery. We are still building our foundation in this Ministry and we need more folks- teens and adults. Please consider contacting Patricia Coley to help and please pray for this vital ministry to our littlest ones and their families. pcoley@myfpc.org or call the Church Office.
Last Wednesday of each month – 4-6pm – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Our FPC church has been given the opportunity to serve families at the Waunakee Food Pantry one time per month. It will always be the last Wednesday of each month from 4-6:00pm. This is a great way to connect with fellow members, while serving families in the Waunakee area. If you are interested, please stop by the Mission table after church to learn more.
News and Announcements
New Pastor Accepts the Call
Last Sunday, April 7. Pastor Will Wilson came to preach as the Pastoral Nominating Committee’s Pastoral Candidate.
Following worship, FPC met and voted to call Pastor Will as our new Pastor. And following an overwhelming majority vote Pastor Will has accept the call!
Pastor Will and his wife Abigail are expecting their first child, so Pastor Will’s first day preaching will be during the Annual FPC Fall Kickoff event on Sunday, September 8.
If you missed his Sermon from last Sunday you can watch it by CLICKING HERE.
New Horizons welcomed Village Administrator, Todd Schmidt
On Wednesday, April 10, Village Administrator Todd Schmidt came and presented New Horizons with the planned development of Kilkenny West which will surround FPC in the coming years.
Thank you, Todd!
If you are interested in participating in a future New Horizons event, please contact Anne Frihart at 608-512-3620 for more information!
FPC Nursery for Ages 2 and under
Nursery Age 2 and Under – Room 200
The Nursery is available on Sundays from 10:00 – 11:00 AM, is staffed by church volunteers who love children and want to share God’s love with them.
Kingdom Kids
3-year-olds through Kindergarten will be dismissed after the Children’s message during Sunday service.
Sunday School – Aged 3 to 6th grade – 9AM-9:50AM
Join us at FPC of Waunakee for an incredible Sunday School experience! Our vibrant program caters to children aged 3 to 6th grade, offering engaging lessons, interactive activities, and a nurturing environment where young faith can thrive. Every Sunday, we’re dedicated to fostering faith, friendship, and fun in a way that leaves a lasting impact on your child’s spiritual journey. Don’t miss out on this enriching opportunity!
Network 56 – Grades 5-6
Network 56 is a group of 5th and 6th graders who hang out together to have fun, put faith to action by serving in the community, and grow healthy, encouraging friendships.
- All 5th and 6th grade students are welcome to attend Network 56 events at any time. Interested participants are notified in advance of each event.
- All events are chaperoned by parents. There is lots of fun and room for everyone to participate.
Student Ministry – Grades 7-12
FPC Student Ministry exists to help students KNOW God, GROW in relationship with Him and each other, and to GO serve others in Jesus’ name.
Students can expect a welcoming environment with caring adult leaders who are there to support and encourage them on their faith journey, regardless of if they are exploring their faith for the first time, a committed follower of Jesus, or anywhere between.
All students are welcome!
Sundays | 9:00–9:50am
In the upstairs youth room
(Sept-May)
7th-12th Graders, join us for a time of connection, Bible discussion, and prayer.
Wednesdays | 7:00-8:15pm
In the upstairs youth room
(Sept-May)
7th-12th Graders, join us for a time of connection, games, musical worship, meaningful messages and small group discussions, and prayer.
Music in Worship
April 14 – Ying Wang, pianist
April 21 – FPC Choir and Ying Wang, pianist
April 28 – Praise Band: Brett Cable, Jason Cable, Greg Tardiff
Stephen Ministry at FPC: Providing God’s Care to Hurting People
What is this ministry about?
Extensively trained and supervised Stephen Minister Caregivers provide high-quality, one-on-one confidential Christian care to anyone in need. They provide weekly visits and ongoing support as long as the care receiver needs. Should the care receiver have needs that are beyond the scope of a Stephen Minister Caregiver, they are referred to professional caregivers.
What kind of care is offered from a Stephen Minister?
- CRISIS CARE – For people experiencing change(s) that significantly challenge their ability to cope.
- FOLLOW-UP CARE – After the crisis event.
- CHRONIC CARE – For a person whose situation is unlikely to change.
- PREVENTIVE CARE – Providing care before a crisis occurs.
- SUPPORTIVE CARE – Care for the caregiver.
How can I find out more about this ministry?
Call the church office at 608-949-9445, or reach out to a pastor or deacon. Stephen Minister Caregivers don’t replace the care of pastors and deacons. They carry it a step further.
Tryg Knutson
608-622-9539
Jill Umlauf
715-360-5962
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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.
The Connector comes out at 4 PM every Friday. The deadline for submissions is noon, the Wednesday prior.
