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10 Suggestions for Welcoming a New Pastor
Hello FPC Family!
This month in our Theology on Tap group, Jim and Judy Fitzgerald led us in a discussion on what the Bible says about a pastor’s role along with an article that included a list of suggestions for welcoming a new pastor. As Pastor Will, Abby, and Iris are about to drive their U-Haul up to Wisconsin in the coming weeks, I wanted to share the list that we discussed. The group all thought it was very helpful and an intentional way to prepare for their arrival.
10 Suggestions for Welcoming a New Pastor
(summary of original article by Barry Howard)
1. Pray for your new pastor. Once the “honeymoon period” is over and the daily grind of ministry begins, praying for your pastor will strengthen your pastor’s ministry and will fortify your bond with your pastor.
2. Send your pastor a welcome note or email. Be careful not to make this a lengthy epistle or diatribe itemizing your personal experience or agenda.
3. Mention your name every time you talk with your new Pastor and be sure not to quiz him on it.
4. Embrace the uniqueness of your pastor. The Spirit seldom leads a church to a person just like the previous pastor or the beloved pastor from the church’s history.
5. Be prepared to follow. The kingdom of God is enriched when we embrace our mission with enthusiasm.
7. Be attentive to caring for the pastor’s family during the transition and afterward.
8. Give your pastor permission to fail. The best pastors don’t succeed 100% of the time. There is a higher degree of trial and error in the post-pandemic era in ministry.
9. Speak positively about your pastor publicly and privately. Every pastor has weaknesses, so it’s easy to find something to criticize – let’s build our pastor up.
10. If you receive your new pastor as a spiritual leader sent to encourage your faithfulness, challenge your presuppositions, and bring out God’s best in you, then the relationship between pastor and congregation will be vibrant and effective.
Let’s actively build this new relationship into a vibrant one. That is my hope and prayer.
I hope that you will join us on Sunday, September 8, for our annual Fall Kick Off. Not only will it be our first opportunity to hear Pastor Will preach, but we will have our first opportunity to show their family intentional hospitality in the ways they might need – whether that means making sure to wear a name tag and introducing ourselves, or giving Abby and baby space to nurse and care for themselves.
“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 | August 25 – September 14, 2024
Wednesday, August 28 at 6PM – FPC Choir Picnic
Have a heart for singing? Not sure, but willing to give it a try? Looking for some musical fellowship? The FPC Choir will be kicking off the fall semester on September 4 and would love to have you join us! We sing two Sundays a month and rehearse most Wednesdays and are flexible if you can’t sing every time. If you are even a little curious, join us on August 28 for our Fall Picnic at 6pm in the Fellowship Hall. We promise, the only bites had will be of delicious food combined with joyful community and fellowship. Anyone interested in learning more can reach out to Jamison Wendlandt (jwendlandt@myfpc.org), who he would be more than happy to connect! See you there!
Monday, September 2 – FPC Church office will be closed
The FPC Church office will be closed Monday, September 2, in observation of Labor Day.
Sunday, September 8 – Fall Kick Off with BBQ Potluck, All that Jazz & Welcome Pastor Will!
Sunday, September 8 – Sunday School Open House
Hooray! It’s almost back-to-Sunday-School time! We are looking forward to our classrooms being filled again with children laughing, learning, and feeling God’s love!
Sunday School kickoff is Sunday, September 8, and is for kids ages 3 years-6th grade, 9am-9:50am. The first day is a fun meet-and-greet (or dance) open-house-style morning. Parents and children are encouraged to stop in classrooms to meet teachers and get a welcome-back surprise! Can’t make it the first day? No worries, kids are always welcome to come any Sunday throughout the whole year. Friends are always welcome too!
While we believe parents are the first educators of their children knowing God, we also believe He is working through us at FPC to share the knowledge of the Bible and teachings of Jesus with your children. We are blessed to have every child walk (usually run) through our classroom doors to come learn more about God. We teach in a fun and friendly way, and the children seem to love it!
You can register your child(ren) here, or we can help you register when you arrive! Thank you for bringing your children. It is our pleasure shepherding them in their faith journey! Any questions? Contact Interim Children’s Ministry Director Lori Phelps at lori.phelps@myfpc.org or 608-949-9445.
Don’t forget: the fun continues on September 8 with the open invitation to the all-church potluck, band, bouncy house and yard games from 11:30-1:30!
Mondays, starting September 9, from 1-2:30PM – Light Team
Light team is a small women’s group that emphasizes fellowship with a Bible study. Meetings take place Monday afternoons in the Gathering Place from 1-2:30.
No homework is required and our meetings are open to all. Our time together is enhanced with coffee, tea, and delicious snacks.
The first meeting will be Sept. 9 with an emphasis on fellowship and getting back together after the summer break. The Bible lesson this fall will be a video from Laura Story, “So Long, Normal”. Nothing about life with God is normal. Can we live an abundant, adventurous life in Christ? Who knows? God may have a new adventure for us! Do we need to let go and trust Him?
If you are interested in joining, or would like more information, please email Lynda Bennin.
Monday, Sept. 9 at 6:30PM and Saturday, Sept. 14, 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.
Monday, September 9, 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.” September’s Centering Prayer session will be held on the second Monday due to Labor Day. For those who want to “learn by doing,” please come at 6 PM to get oriented. For questions, please contact Judy Fitzgerald.
Wednesdays, starting September 11, from 7-8:30PM – Men’s Ministry Meeting
Men’s Ministry is a multi-generational group of men committed to exploring matters of Faith, Purpose and Connection. The group meets on Wednesdays from 7PM to approximately 8:30PM at the church and also plans off-site opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and community service. All men are welcome.
Join the group in the Gathering Space by the fireplace. At our first meeting of the fall, we will be wrapping up the DVD Video series “Love Does” by Bob Goff, which we started in late spring.
We will have a table set up at the September 8th Fall Kick Off Event hosted by FPC. So if you would like to hear more about our group please stop by and see us. Otherwise please contact Jim Fitzgerald at jnj57012@gmail.com or David Sliwicki at david.sliwicki@gmail.com for carpooling information and to find out more about FPC’s Men’s Group. All men are welcome to join us!
Save the Date | More Info to come
Sunday, September 15, 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
Future Meeting Dates
October 13
November 10
December 8
Friday, September 27, from 12:30PM-5:30PM – Red Cross Blood Drive
Help save lives! The blood drive will be held down in Fellowship Hall on Friday, September 27 from 12:30PM-5:30PM.
Sunday, October 6, following worship – All About FPC New Member Class
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, October 6. 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 Elder Wes Ray or email Christa: cschmeelk@myfpc.org.
Sunday, October 13, during service – 5th/6th grade Bible Presentation
Get ready for a special moment during our Sunday, October 13 worship service! Network 56 will proudly present our 5th and 6th grade Sunday School kids with their very own Bibles. This milestone marks an important step in their faith journey, and we can’t wait to celebrate it with the entire congregation. Join us as we witness these young hearts receiving the Word of God, a moment they’ll cherish for years to come!
Friday, October 18, from Noon-5:30PM – Red Cross Blood Drive
Help save lives! The blood drive will be held down in Fellowship Hall on Friday, October 18 from 12PM-5:30PM.
Opportunities to Serve
Guaranteed to Make You Feel Younger… Volunteer with Children!
We currently need more warm and friendly (and silly) individuals to round out our gold medal Sunday School teaching teams. No experience necessary! Guidance, teacher manuals and materials provided. Sunday school is from 9am-9:50am. Youth volunteers are also encouraged to assist. Help on occasion or on a rotating schedule-you choose. Please consider this important calling by reaching out to Interim Director of Children’s Ministry Lori Phelps at lori.phelps@myfpc.org or call/text 608-235-7899. The rewards and smiles are plentiful!
We’re Hiring: Nursery Coordinator
FPC of Waunakee has a part-time position available Sunday mornings 9:30am-11:30am (job sharing considered). Main responsibilities include love and care for our littlest ones, absolute compliance with safety policies and cleanliness, and supervision of Nursery assistants. Additional fun may include Bible stories, activities, music, and crafts. With assistant, oversee 2-10 children ranging from ages newborn-2 years. Pay is competitive, and you can bring your own children or grandchildren with you to play on Sunday mornings! Christian faith, self- motivation, love of children, and warm teaching spirit essential!
Apply soon by emailing resume and cover letter to info@myfpc.org or to request an application.
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 Christa Schmeelk at cschmeelk@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:
1. Toilet Paper
2. Bar soap
3. Cereal
4. Ritz type crackers
5. Canned Tuna
6. Ketchup & Mustard
7. Pancake Mix
8. Canned fruit (pears, peaches, mandarin oranges)
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
Intruder Committee Update
Hello FPC Family! As you may be aware, the FPC Intruder Committee has been making updates, changes and recommendations to Session as part of the church safety plan for over a year. This month, the Session approved the Intruder Committee’s recommendation of not allowing Concealed Carry in our church building. This is consistent with the PCUSA recommendations from 2010 and means no weapons are allowed. Law enforcement officials are the only exception. We wanted to make sure and communicate this to our whole church family but, in addition, signs will be posted at all church entrances.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Pastor Ben: behrets@myfpc.org
Need help around the house?
The Deacons provide a ministry of sharing time and service to others called “Hammers with Halos.” This ministry is intended to be a short term or occasional way of helping out someone in need, not a long-term solution. Minor household repairs or maintenance, yard work or other small tasks are things that we can help with! Write it in the friendship pad, contact the church office or any of the Deacons and they will share the need with Beth Mueller, the current Deacon in charge of the program.
This Week’s Birthdays: August 25 – 31
This Week’s Anniversaries: August 25 – 31
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.
Music in Worship
August 25 – All That Brass, brass quintet
September 1 – Roxanne & Alan Fauque, piano & saxophones
September 8 – FPC Choir, Ying Wang, pianist and Joyful Brass
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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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.
