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Lent: A Season of Fasting and Feasting
The word “Lent” does not mean “penance” or “giving up something”– although that might be what first enters our thoughts. The word “Lent” comes from an Old English word lencten which refers to the lengthening of days.
In the Christian calendar, Lent is the Holy Season that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Easter Sunday.
In the past, we were taught that Lent was a time of sacrifice, of deprivation– a time to fast from chocolate, coffee, candy, meat, T.V. or other indulgences.
For me, that idea changed in the late 1980’s.
Authors Jim and Evelyn Whitehead proposed a new idea: fasting and feasting.
They suggested to use Lent as a time to fast on parts of our lives that are unhealthy and feast on what brings us life. What a novel idea. Instead of an external checklist which emphases outward appearances, they ask us to focus on the internal– our hearts. According to the Whiteheads, use the season of Lent to become more honest– accept that our past is past, let go of our baggage and say “hello” to what God wants most for us– to be more fully alive.
Lent does not become a time of spiffing up our externals so that when the spotlight hits us, we look good. Instead, it becomes a time to allow the Light of Christ to shine through us a bit more clearly. Yes, we may walk with Christ through dark nights, but God’s LIGHT is with and within us even now. (Psalm 139: 11-12)
From what is it that we want to fast? Our quick temper? Our rush to judgment? Our sharp tongue? Our frugality? Our wayward ways? Our feeling of being excluded? The frenzy of our lives? Our need to shop?
What do we want to feast on? Simplifying our lives? Daily writing down three things for which we are grateful? Praying more frequently with loved ones? Watching a sunset or a sunrise twice a week? Reading a Gospel in its entirety in one sitting? Talking to an unfamiliar person at church?
Among other things, I will be fasting on frenzy and feasting on focus.
I have even made a sign that I have put up in my office to remind me.
I wonder what God might want you to “Fast on? Feast on?” this Lent and beyond.
Isn’t it time to let go of what gets in our way and move deeper through our darkness into God’s Light?
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
Romans 12:12
Video Devotional: Repent and Believe in the Gospel
Pastor Peter Muhoro from P.E.F.A. Church in Kagio, Kenya, and Pastor Jeff preach on Mark 1:14-20 in which Jesus says, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Pastor Peter tells of the things he is doing today to spread the Gospel throughout his community. As you will see, it is inspiring!
Soli Deo Gloria!
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 | Feb. 18 – Mar. 9, 2024
Sundays, starting February 18 to March 31 at 9AM – Adult and Student Lenten Sunday School!
All 7-12 graders and adults of all ages are invited to join Pastor Ben and Ezrah for a cross-generational Lenten Sunday School offering. We will be following the Lenten sermon series, “Walking Through the Dark Night into God’s Light.” This will take place in the Youth Space.
Sunday, February 18 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:
- March 17
- April 21
- May 19
Mondays through Mar. 18 from 1PM-2:30PM – Light Team Meeting
Starting February 19 we will be starting “Why Easter Matters” by Andy Stanley. Andy looks at the lives of several key people in the story of Jesus’ crucifixion.
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
Wednesdays thru 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, Feb. 21-Mar. 20 at 6PM – Lenten Dinners
Bring friends, family, and neighbors! All are welcome to these Lenten Dinners. Dinner will be served from 6-7pm with a short Devotional from 7-7:30pm. Adults with Pastor Glen, Children with Patricia, little kids with Christa. Teens will go upstairs to youth group. Please sign up and let us know you are coming!
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 “Life Lessons from John” by Christian author Max Lucado. We are excited to foster meaningful connections and find some service projects to work on together.
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!
Thursdays, through March 21 at 5:15PM – Heavenly Stretch
Heavenly Stretch returns with a 6-week Lenten series of yoga classes for Christians. Classes will be held Thursday evenings from 5:15-6:00, starting on February 15 and ending on March 21.
If you have questions please text Lolly at 608-658-0895.
Saturday, February 24 at 4PM – 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, February 25 at 11AM – Sue and Alka’s Retirement Celebration!
Monday, March 4 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, March 9 at 10AM and Monday, March 11 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.
Save the Date | More Info to come
Friday, March 15 at 11AM – Red Cross Blood Drive
Sunday, March 17 at 9AM – Easter Trails for Kids during Sunday School
Parents! Bring your child to Sunday School so they can walk through the events of Holy Week! There will be fun, snacks, and a goody bag to help them celebrate Holy Week!
Holy Week from March 24-March 31
Sunday, March 24
10AM
Palm Sunday
Thursday, March 28
6PM
Maundy Thursday
Friday, March 29
Noon-3PM
Good Friday,
Journey to the Cross
Sunday, March 31
8AM and 10AM
Easter
SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, June 9-Tuesday, June 11 – VBS 2024!
Get ready to dive in! More information about this summer’s VBS adventure will be surfacing soon!
Join our dive team! Join us on our underwater journey and help create an unforgettable experience!
Opportunities to Serve
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
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.
Graceland 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
February 18 – FPC Choir
February 25 – Sonia Driskill, Harpist – Preludes to begin at 9:45AM
March 3 – FPC Choir
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.
