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Discovering the True Nature of Christianity
Every now and then, I go back over my journals and rediscover some of the quotes that I have saved. These quotes can be from all sorts of traditions. The following words are from the Orthodox Christian perspective. Might its wisdom help us all grow deeper in this journey we are on with God? I wonder where God will lead us?
Grace and peace to you.
Pastor Glen
“Our situation, say the Greek fathers, is like that of the Israelite people in the desert of Sinai: we live in tents, not houses, for spiritually we are always on the move.
We are on a journey through the inward space of the heart, a journey not measured by the hours of our watch or the days of our calendar, for it is a journey out of time into eternity… Christianity is more than a theory about the universe, more than teachings written down on paper; it is a path along which we journey- in the deepest and richest sense, the way of life.
There is only one means of discovering the true nature of Christianity.
We must step out upon this path, commit ourselves to this way of life, and then…we shall see for ourselves.
So long as we remain outside and indifferent, we cannot properly understand. Certainly, we need to be given directions before we start; we need to be told what signposts to look out for, and we need to have companions.
Indeed, without guidance from others, it is scarcely possible to begin the journey. But directions given by others can never convey to us what the way is actually like; they cannot be a substitute for direct, personal experience. Each is called to verify for themselves what they have been taught; each is required to re-live the Tradition they have received.
‘The Creed,’ said Metropolitan Philaret, ‘does not belong to you unless you have lived it.’ No one can be an armchair traveler on this all-important journey. No one can be a Christian at second hand. God has children, but God has no grandchildren.
From The Orthodox Way, by Kallistos Ware
Marriage Retreat Announcement
After dinner on Friday, October 20, to before lunch on Sunday, October 22. Beautiful Green Lake Wisconsin. 2 nights, 4 meals, and a deliberate time to reflect on your marriage. $199.00/ couple. (Scholarships are available.) Currently, there is room for 12 more couples. We can accommodate more folks if we know in advance.
My wife, Christine, and I have led three weekend Marriage Retreats. We are not experts and have been enriched by all three. We all know that a wedding is just a day, but marriage is an ever-changing process that requires intention and attention. So come away and nurture the relationship you began on your wedding day.
Here are two quotes to think on:
“A strong marriage requires two people who choose to love each other even on those days when they struggle to like each other.” – Dave Willis
“Love doesn’t just sit there, like a stone, it has to be made, like bread; remade all the time, made new.”- Ursula K. Le Guin
Video Devotional: The Eight Elements of the Lord’s Prayer
We have all said it hundreds of times. It is the prayer that Jesus taught us to pray in Matthew 6:9-13. In this episode of “Scriptures for Life,” Jeff looks at the eight parts of the Lord’s Prayer and finds one part that struck him as important for him to understand and embrace.
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.
News and Announcements
July 2023 Session Meeting
There will be an all-congregation meeting on August 20, 2023, after the 10:00 a.m. service. The purpose of the meeting is to review and approve the Equal Opportunity statement from PCUSA, which was approved by the Session in the July meeting. This must be approved before we can continue with our pastor hiring process. EEO statement:
The unity of believers in Christ is reflected in the rich diversity of the Church’s membership. In Christ, by the power of the Spirit, God unites persons through baptism regardless of race, ethnicity, age, sex, disability, geography, or theological conviction. There is therefore, no place in the life of the Church for discrimination against any person. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) shall guarantee full participation and representation in its worship, governance and emerging life to all persons or groups within its membership. No members shall be denied participation or representation for any reason other than stated in this Constitution (F-1.0403). Each Pastor Nominating Committee and Search committee is expected to undertake its search for a Teaching Elder in a manner consistent with the good news that in the Church ‘… as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
The first meeting of the committee working on security protocol at FPC was planned for 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 25. There will be a seven-person committee working on this. There was a great response to call for committee members and the members have applicable experience and passion on the topic.
The theme of the 2023 Stewardship Campaign will be “Walking in the Light” based on John 1:7. There will be multiple methods to get the stewardship message out: from the pulpit; with students; during adult education; etc.
Pastor Glen is working with the staff and Elders on an integrated, all-church calendar. Upcoming event information:
There will be a picnic pot luck, and concert from the Waunakee Big Band, on September 10. Fellowship (Krista) and New Member Outreach (Wes) will team on food for the event, with Wes bringing BBQ and asking congregation to fill in with side dishes. We’ll use a Sign-Up Genius like we did for Pastor Kirk’s retirement celebration.
Sunday school begins September 17.
There will be an “All About FPC” class on 9/24. Elders were asked to plan to attend the first portion of the class to be introduced and discuss their areas of responsibility.
Seven couples have signed up for the marriage retreat on 10/22 at Green Lake.
Veteran’s Day is November 11, veteran’s will be encouraged to come to church in uniform on November 12. (Reminder from Scott that Veteran’s Day is to honor living veterans and Memorial Day is to honor veterans who have passed away.)
On December 24, which is a Sunday this year, the service times will be 10 a.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Some visitors have said that our members “clump” at the end of the service. Tendency is to talk with people we know. Would be better to purposely seek out people we don’t know after the service to chat and get to know them. “Plan your visit” is now live on the website, which should be helpful to newcomers.
Finance Report: Alan Roberts reporting that giving vs. pledged for the month of June is at 115% and year-to-date at 107%. General fund income vs. expense is $2,765.21. June giving can be lighter than the rest of the year, with travel, summer activities, etc., but was very good this year. Did have some generous stock donations and one full year’s pledge paid in June. Happy to end the month with a positive balance. Would like pastors to remind people to use the box in the back of church for donations. Kudos to Chris Drake for doing payroll and providing other church administration support while Sue Gade was on vacation.
The Ministry Development Plan (MDP) will be brought to the Session meeting in August for approval. This is needed before we can post the senior pastor position. The PNC continues to meet weekly.
Approved to renew Tony Tomaselli as Trustee C of the FPC Endowment with term expiring September 30, 2023. Approved to appoint Karosibina Abraham as Trustee D (filling an unexpired term) for the FPC Endowment, term expiring September 30, 2023. Approval to renew Karosibina Abraham’s term as Trustee D, term expiring September 30, 2026.
Worship and Music: Great music at the July 17 Sunday service and a good introduction for the new choir director, Jamison Wendlandt. Erik and family will be taking a break from running the soundboard in August. They will train others to backfill.
Approved continuing our current worship schedule, with one 10:00 a.m. service on Sundays, and multiple Christmas and Easter services at times to be determined. Previous motion only carried through Labor Day of 2023.
Children’s Ministry: 60 kids attended VBS, with 50 volunteers, showing solid growth from 2022!
Building and Grounds: A number of members attended the Village meeting where the new Tierney development, coming in to the north of the church, was discussed. There were concerns about the driveway easement, which didn’t show up in the Tierney plan. We were assured that the easement/driveway will be in the final plans. Both parties would have to consent to nullify the easement agreement.
Continuing to work with the Grow team on maintenance and improvement of the church grounds.
The Building Use plan will be reviewed in the August Session meeting.
Personnel: Continuing work with the job survey committee to plan for retirements of Sue Gade and Alka Van Haren and create a future staffing plan.
Stewardship: There will be a plan in place for Stewardship sermons, leading up to Stewardship Sunday. There will also be articles in the Connector and Minutes for Mission announcements. Will also provide information regarding the Endowment for Stewardship.
Student Ministry: For Wednesday night youth group, Christa will be leading musical worship three times a month. They are welcoming back some current leaders and looking to add some new leaders, and planning minor format changes. Sunday School curriculum will use the Bible Project videos. Finalizing plans for fun activities for this summer. Youth space improvements are going very well and the space looks incredible, there are some projects this will continue into the coming months. Tentatively scheduled City on a Hill for June 2023 mission trip. Working on 2023-2024 calendar.
Approve student ministry Devil’s Lake adventure, for middle and high school students, on Wednesday August 23.
Adult Nurture and Spiritual Growth: Scott reported the Adult Education will offer a talk by author Margaret George on August 29. She will talk about her book “Mary, Called Magdelene.” There will be a reception with coffee, tea and snacks.
Continuing to work on marriage retreat planning. May offer a book group on “Sabbath as Resistance: Saying No to the Culture of Now.” Will bring a proposal for yoga for Christians – The Heavenly Stretch – to the next Session Meeting. Will offer breakfast with guest speakers later this year or early 2024.
Mission: Continuing to look for ways to communicate mission opportunities to the congregation, including website updates, volunteer videos, Minute for Missions, etc. Will continue to look for ways to get FPC members to be more involved in missions.
Related to Mission, we discussed offering a giving opportunity from the Presbytery to our members. The Generosity Task Force runs a late summer campaign to get donations to be used toward retiring medical debt (RIP Medical Debt). In 2022, the John Knox Presbytery collected and sent $14,425 to RIP Medical Debt, where it was multiplied and removed $1,925,734 in medical debt for 2,594 families. Approved communicating the RIP Medical Debt to our congregation, providing them an additional mission giving opportunity.
Fellowship: Reviewing the budget, schedule for coffee hour volunteers and contract with Java Bay for coffee. Will establish a Fellowship plan through March, 2024. Planning to offer six Lenten soup suppers and would like the Elders to host one of those weeks.
New Member Outreach: Wes reported that the Live Nativity will take place on December 17. There may be more than one day, decision to be made later.
Other actions: Pastor Glen’s contract was renewed through August 31, 2024, with a 3% pay increase. Elder Krista Wallace was ordained, and Elders Barb Cash and Scott Legwold were installed, in an Ordination/Installation ceremony in the Chapel.
FPC’s Summer office hours
Monday – Wednesday – 10:00am – 4:00pm
Thursday – Admin Staff working remotely from 10:00am – 4:00pm
Friday – Office Closed
Need some good summer reading?
Need some good summer reading? Thanks to a number of generous donors, our FPC library has some great new titles. Check them out!.
Questions? Call or email Alice Honeywell — 608-692-5496; ajhoneywell@gmail.com
Nursery is open all summer
Nursery Age 2 and Under – Room 200
The Nursery is available on Sundays from 9:00 – 11:00 AM, is staffed by church volunteers who love children and want to share God’s love with them.
Kingdom Kids this summer
3-year-olds through Kindergarten will be dismissed after the Children’s message during Sunday service throughout the Summer.
Summer Music in Worship
August 13 – Sydney Ray, vocalist; Ying Wang, accompanist
August 20 – Ying Wang, piano
August 27 – Natalie and Derek Handley, vocals/guitar/cello
Coming Events | August 13 – September 2, 2023
Saturday, August 12 at 10AM – Caregivers Group
Calling all caregivers! Caregivers for anyone, whether it be spouse, child, other family member, or a friend. The loved one doesn’t need to be cared for at home, they don’t need to be in a certain age group, as all caregivers are welcome in this group.
The purpose of the group is to meet in a safe place, where there is no judgment, to discuss and pray for you as a caregiver and for your loved ones. We won’t tell you what you need to do, but we will offer resources for you–and sometimes, just talking about your life as a caregiver, how it affects your outlook on life and your outlook on your faith.
We will be meeting in the Chapel. Coffee, tea and ice water will be provided.
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.
Monday, August 14 at 6:30PM – Caregivers Group
Calling all caregivers! Caregivers for anyone, whether it be spouse, child, other family member, or a friend. The loved one doesn’t need to be cared for at home, they don’t need to be in a certain age group, as all caregivers are welcome in this group.
The purpose of the group is to meet in a safe place, where there is no judgment, to discuss and pray for you as a caregiver and for your loved ones. We won’t tell you what you need to do, but we will offer resources for you–and sometimes, just talking about your life as a caregiver, how it affects your outlook on life and your outlook on your faith.
We will be meeting in the Chapel. Coffee, tea and ice water will be provided.
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.
Friday, August 18 at 12PM-5:15PM – Waunakee Ecumenical Board Blood Drive at FPC
Saturday, August 19 at 8AM – FPC’s GROW Group
Sunday, August 20 during Worship – Brief Congregational Meeting
We are also planning a congregational meeting on Sunday, August 20, at which time the congregation will vote to approve the EEO (Equal Employment Opportunity) statement. The approval of the EEO statement is required in order for us to proceed with the pastoral search.
Please plan to attend this brief congregational meeting on the 20th!
Monday, August 21 at 11:15AM – Light Team Lunch
Light Team will have lunch on August 21 at M-N-M’s Coffeehouse starting at 11:15 am. Regular Light Team meetings will start on September 11 at 1pm in the Gathering Space.
Email Lynda if you’d like to join Light Team at blbennin@tds.net
Friday, August 25 at 6PM – Family Night! Outdoor Movie and S’mores
Friday, August 25 at 6PM – Children’s Ministry Summer Fun Night!
Summer Family Fire Pit, Outdoor Movie and for those who desire – a Campout at FPC! Bring your own dinner to cook over the fire at 6pm (like hotdogs!) and we’ll provide the s’mores. The movie will start at 7pm, and for those who would like to camp, please RSVP to Christa: cschmeelk@myfpc.org– and she’ll get you the details.
Saturday, August 26 at 3PM – Theology On Tap
Tuesday, August 29 from 2PM-4PM – Author Visit Margaret George
Extraordinary Opportunity!
Award-winning Margaret George has agreed to speak at FPC on Tuesday, August 29 at 2pm in Fellowship Hall. Although all her numerous historical novels have been New York Times Bestsellers, she will focus on Mary Called Magdalene. Reception to follow.
Save the Date | More Info to come
Monday, September 4 at 7PM – Centering Prayer
The Centering Prayer group will meet in the Chapel on the first Monday of each month at 7pm for two 20 minute “sits”. For those who want to “learn by doing,” please come at 6:30 to get oriented. For questions, please contact Pastor Glen.
Saturday, September 9 at 10AM – Caregivers Group
Calling all caregivers! Caregivers for anyone, whether it be spouse, child, other family member, or a friend. The loved one doesn’t need to be cared for at home, they don’t need to be in a certain age group, as all caregivers are welcome in this group.
The purpose of the group is to meet in a safe place, where there is no judgment, to discuss and pray for you as a caregiver and for your loved ones. We won’t tell you what you need to do, but we will offer resources for you–and sometimes, just talking about your life as a caregiver, how it affects your outlook on life and your outlook on your faith.
We will be meeting in the Chapel. Coffee, tea and ice water will be provided.
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.
Sunday, September 10 at 11AM-2PM – FPC BBQ with Waunakee’s Big Band
Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of community, music, and culinary delight – a potluck picnic like no other! Everyone is warmly invited to gather under the big open sky behind FPC of Waunakee, where the tantalizing aroma of sizzling BBQ mingles with laughter and friendship. Indulge in a spread of mouthwatering dishes lovingly prepared by your church family and neighbors, all while enjoying the toe tapping and finger snapping music of the Waunakee Big Band. We can’t think of a better way to close out the Summer!
Monday, September 11 – 1PM – Light Team Meeting
Light Team will begin meeting on September 11 at 1PM in the Gathering Place.
Email Lynda if you’d like to join Light Team at blbennin@tds.net
Monday, September 11 at 6:30PM – Caregivers Group
Calling all caregivers! Caregivers for anyone, whether it be spouse, child, other family member, or a friend. The loved one doesn’t need to be cared for at home, they don’t need to be in a certain age group, as all caregivers are welcome in this group.
The purpose of the group is to meet in a safe place, where there is no judgment, to discuss and pray for you as a caregiver and for your loved ones. We won’t tell you what you need to do, but we will offer resources for you–and sometimes, just talking about your life as a caregiver, how it affects your outlook on life and your outlook on your faith.
We will be meeting in the Chapel. Coffee, tea and ice water will be provided.
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, September 23 at 11AM – FPC Fall Clean-Up
Embrace the spirit of togetherness and join us for an invigorating day of community camaraderie at our ‘Fall Clean-up’ event! As the vibrant colors of autumn surround us, let’s come together to prepare our cherished FPC grounds for the upcoming winter. Come help us make an impact as we ensure our church remains a welcoming haven for all seasons!
Sunday, September 24 from 11:15AM-1PM – All About FPC Class
Embark on a transformative journey into the heart of the Presbyterian faith with our ‘All About FPC’ class. Unveil the rich tapestry of our cherished community, as we guide you through the history, beliefs, and traditions that define our church. Join us to deepen your spiritual connection, forge lasting bonds, and ignite your passion for faith within the warm embrace of our congregation.
Friday, September 29 from 12:30PM-5:45PM – Red Cross Blood Drive
Monday, October 2 at 7PM – Centering Prayer
The Centering Prayer group will meet in the Chapel on the first Monday of each month at 7pm for two 20 minute “sits”. For those who want to “learn by doing,” please come at 6:30 to get oriented. For questions, please contact Pastor Glen.
Monday, October 9 at 6:30PM – Caregivers Group
Calling all caregivers! Caregivers for anyone, whether it be spouse, child, other family member, or a friend. The loved one doesn’t need to be cared for at home, they don’t need to be in a certain age group, as all caregivers are welcome in this group.
The purpose of the group is to meet in a safe place, where there is no judgment, to discuss and pray for you as a caregiver and for your loved ones. We won’t tell you what you need to do, but we will offer resources for you–and sometimes, just talking about your life as a caregiver, how it affects your outlook on life and your outlook on your faith.
We will be meeting in the Chapel. Coffee, tea and ice water will be provided.
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, October 14 at 10AM – Caregivers Group
Calling all caregivers! Caregivers for anyone, whether it be spouse, child, other family member, or a friend. The loved one doesn’t need to be cared for at home, they don’t need to be in a certain age group, as all caregivers are welcome in this group.
The purpose of the group is to meet in a safe place, where there is no judgment, to discuss and pray for you as a caregiver and for your loved ones. We won’t tell you what you need to do, but we will offer resources for you–and sometimes, just talking about your life as a caregiver, how it affects your outlook on life and your outlook on your faith.
We will be meeting in the Chapel. Coffee, tea and ice water will be provided.
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.
Sunday, October 15 at 2:30PM – Historic Organ Presentation and Recital
Ryan Mueller will be the organist for the recital showcasing our historic Scheulke organ. At 2:30pm he will also present a pre-recital lecture on Schuelke and the history of his organ building business in Milwaukee as well as the history of our organ. The concert will begin at 3pm.
Friday, October 20 at 12PM-5PM – Waunakee Ecumenical Board Blood Drive at FPC
Friday, October 20 – Sunday, October 22 – FPC Marriage Retreat
Pastor Glen and his wife, Christine, will lead this event at the Green Lake Retreat Center. Cost is $199 per couple for 4 meals and 2 nights’ lodging. Contact Pastor Glen or Christa Schmeelk for more information.
Saturday, October 28 – 8:30AM-12:30PM – Introduction to Centering Prayer
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Opportunities to Serve
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.
Doneta Chorney
608-345-1196
Tryg Knutson
608-622-9539
Jill Umlauf
715-360-5962
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.
The Connector comes out at 4 PM every Friday. The deadline for submissions is noon, the Wednesday prior.
