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His Quiet Presence Close By Our Side
Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing testimonies from folks that I know about their faith. I hope that each simple and honest sharing will inspire us all to draw close to the Living Christ during these 50 Great days of Easter.
The following is from a friend whom I will call Sally:
When did Jesus become real to me?
Actually, Jesus has always been real to me.
He has always been there close beside me.
There were no balls of fire,
no bright flashes of light,
no drum rolls to announce his arrival in my life.
In my earliest days in Sunday School, we were told that we have a loving friend who is always with us, in good times and bad, when we are happy and when we are sad, when we are lonesome and when we are afraid. I had no brothers or sisters, so Jesus became my dearest friend. I talked over everything with him.
Now that I am an adult, I still feel his quiet presence close by my side. I know that he will stay beside me until the day comes when I meet him, face to face.
Thanks be to God.
May we all experience Jesus’ “quiet presence close by our side”.
Blessings.
Peace,
Pastor Glen
“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. 7 – 27, 2024
THIS SUNDAY, April 7 at 10AM – Congregational Meeting
The Session has called a congregational meeting upon the request of the PNC for Sunday, April 7 immediately following worship to elect a pastor and approve terms of call. The candidate for pastor will preach that day.
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!
Email Lynda if you’d like to join Light Team at blbennin@tds.net
Monday, April 8 at 6:30PM and Saturday, April 13 at 10AM –
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.
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.
Wednesday, April 10 at 11:30AM – New Horizons Potluck and Presentation by Todd Schmidt
Todd Schmidt, Waunakee Village Administrator, will discuss the development plans for Waunakee. Potluck will follow in Fellowship Hall.
If you’d like more information please call Steve Doty at 608-849-4058.
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!
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!
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
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 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 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
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
Session Meeting on March 18, 2024
Kristina Maher, new Church Business Administrator was a special guest at the March 18 meeting. Kristina provided more information on her background and what she’ll bring to her role at FPC and Session members introduced themselves.
Session voted on and approved:
• Allowing Brooksy Beilke-Skoug to host a recital in the Music Room on 5/18/2024 for adonation.
• Allowing Village of Waunakee to use Fellowship Hall as an emergency polling site.
• Setting Kindermusik class schedule for June 2024-September 2025.
• Planning congregational meeting for June 2, 2024.
• Creating a committee and beginning recruiting for the Children’s Ministry Director, to replace Patricia Coley.
Pastor’s Moment:
• Attended Lenten Soup Suppers and held talks (4), seeing good attendance at the talks, some had nearly 20 attendees
• Coordinated Sue and Alka’s retirement party
• Followed up with SOAR academy end-of-mission-support
• Held Sue and Alka’s staff lunch, met with Kristina Maher
• Facilitated nominating committee meetings
• Hosted Centering Prayer
• Moderated special Session meeting on March 5
• Attended Region 4 Presbyterian minister meeting and Stephen Minister’s meeting
• Held a Facetime call with the PNC Candidate
• Planned upcoming worship
• Proposal for FPC contract completion
o Will run the 6/2 congregational meeting, and the ordination and installation of new officers on 6/9
o Extend previous planned end date from 5/31 to 6/18, retirement effective on 7/1/2024
Deacons Report:
Blessed three prayer quilts, receiving requests for Project Connect, will send a reminder to the congregation about Hammers with Halos, moved Care for Caregivers meetings to Monday nights, recruiting volunteers for Loaves of Love distribution.
Worship and Music:
Erik reminded Session that there will be two services on Easter Sunday. Diane Robinson will sing at the 8 a.m. service. Full choir and Joyful Noise at 10 a.m. service. Palms are being delivered the Thursday before Palm Sunday. Finding candlelighters.
Children’s Ministry:
Peter noted that CM’s next big events are Easter Trail on March 10 (Palm Sunday) and VBS June 9-11.
They continue to re-evaluate the CM calendar. Overall FPC volunteer recruitment is a focus, working with Christa Schmeelk. Looking to augment the CM committee with new committee members.
Building and Grounds:
RJ said they are getting updated pricing for work on the outdoor family space. Looking to take out stone walkways and replace with concrete, take out mulch and will seed mulched areas. Working on replacing chairs and tables for the Fellowship Hall, replacing broken chairs and finding tables that are lighter and easier for anyone to set up.
Will set up folding chairs in the narthex for Easter and leave up for April 7 (anticipating larger attendance to hear pastor candidate preach).
Working on plans for May 18 spring clean-up.
Stewardship:
Barb will be working on assessing upcoming campaigns with the Finance Elder, the new CBA and the incoming Pastor/Head of Staff.
Student Ministry:
Emily noted that they held their third and final Pres House dinner for the academic year on March 3. Special thanks to Pastor Glen and Joan Cable for their generous contributions.
The students finished a great series that looked at creating rhythms in our lives for spending time with God, using our gifts, sharing our stories, and spending time with others. This time of yearoften brings declining participation due to a variety of factors. We are seeing more consistent attendance this year. Comparing the first two weeks of March 2023 to March of 2024, we had a combined total of 26 students in 2023 vs. 56 this year.
Student Ministry will host the March 20th Lenten Dinner. The confirmation mentors continue to encourage and guide their confirmands. The confirmation group will plan on staying in the sanctuary for the April 7 Congregational meeting. The confirmation service is scheduled for April 28.
We currently have ten students signed up for the Milwaukee mission trip this summer, and a number of others who are considering participating. We are also planning to paint a mural wall and replace window coverings at some point in the youth space.
Adult Nurture and Spiritual Growth:
Scott’s report noted that he is working on a Sunday Morning Breakfast with a speaker for April or May and is supporting the Lenten Bible Study and Fall retreat. He has booked the third weekend in October at the Green Lake Conference Center for a women’s retreat and will bring more details and a proposal to the next Session meeting.
Completing the Lenten study, which had a mix of student and adult members, led by Pastor Ben and Ezrah. Will consider this format for the future.
Lolly provided a brief update on Heavenly Stretch. Better attendance with this series, aided by more communication and a new start time.
Fellowship:
Krista reported that the last Lenten supper is this week (March 20). She’s received good support and has seen very good attendance, with lots of young adults attending. The lefse-making “What’s Cookin’ at FPC” with Tryg Knutson is coming up on April 14. Fellowship is starting to look at some summer events, deciding whether or not to do a Mother’s Day breakfast and anticipating events for pastor farewell and welcome.
New Member Outreach:
Wes noted that a New Member’s class is planned for May 5.
Finance Report:
Alan reported given vs. pledged for February was 78%, year-to-date is 105%. Income vs. expense for the General Fund was -$28,002.77. Lots of bills come in and are processed in January, which is one reason for the large expense figure in January.
We have found several potential volunteers for offering counters: Judy and Jim Fitzgerald, Kris Sliwicki and Steve Sash.
Mission:
Brice’s report notes that the March 14 mission presentation will highlight our newest mission, Rev. Moses Odongo’s ministry near Kisumu, Kenya. Kristina Maher will also do a minute for mission in March, presenting on behalf of the Waunakee Neighborhood Connection. Planning future mission presentations for spring and early summer.
Personnel:
Amy reported that Patricia Coley has submitted her resignation. Patricia’s last day with FPC will be June 21.
Amy has met with staff members, individually, to get their ideas on what’s working, and where they could be better supported, in their work with FPC.
Session approved the addition of 100 hours for Jamison Wendlandt to work on the music library this summer and moving Christa Schmeelk to year-round employment.
Session also approved the Senior Pastor “gap” plan, which provides for coverage of preaching and other essential duties during the time between Pastor Glen leaving and the new pastor beginning. Pastor Glen will be paid through the end of June, 2024.
Easter Sunday
Last Sunday, FPC of Waunakee’s Easter Service was a memorable occasion filled with beautiful performances. Diane Robinson’s heartfelt rendition at the 8AM service set a poignant tone, while the 10AM service resonated with the vibrant melodies of Joyful Noise and the stirring harmonies of the FPC Choir. The congregation was uplifted by the spirit of Easter as they gathered to celebrate the message of hope and renewal through music and worship.
Help finding a new charity or organization
For many years, some members of FPC and I have been gathering discarded dolls, cleaning them and dressing them in new clothes. These dolls have been sent to a daycare center for the children of migrant workers. After 44 years, Sister Jean at the daycare center is retiring. I am therefore looking for a similar charitable organization that would like to distribute these dolls at Christmas. It is my hope that some members of the congregation will know of such an organization. The location of the charity does not matter since I am willing to send them anywhere in the U.S.
Thanks!
Joyce Millett
robertmillett@hotmail.com
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 7 – FPC Choir and Jamison Wendlandt, vocalist
April 14 – Ying Wang, pianist
April 21 – FPC Choir and Ying Wang, pianist
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.
