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Walking in Love and Justice
Our denomination, Presbyterian Church USA (PCUSA), affirms a commitment to a continual dismantling of racism in all its forms. This commitment is rooted in Scripture, particularly in the belief that all people are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and that the Gospel calls for reconciliation among all people (2 Corinthians 5:18-19). Of the Presbyterian “Six Great Ends of the Church”, the “promotion of social righteousness” is number five.
Hopefully Monday brings for us a pleasant “day off”, but will also be honored by us as a time for
- reflection on the historical and continuing work of battling racism
- prayer asking God for healing, unity, and peace
- action that seeks opportunities to serve and advocate for Christ-like compassion
Dr. King’s dream of a world where people are judged by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin gives us hope, and one easily hears echoes of the Gospel in Dr. King’s words: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
Let us walk together as a church community in the spirit of unity, seeking to build the beloved community Dr. King envisioned, the Kingdom of which Jesus teaches and invites—one where all of God’s children are valued, embraced, and loved.
God’s peace to you,
Pastor Ben
SCAM ALERT: Fake emails from Will Wilson
Recently, there have been reports of individuals receiving fraudulent emails purportedly from “Will Wilson.” This simple email asks if you are available to speak over email. At first glance this seems innocent enough, but more than likely will lead to asking for a favor. These favors typically ask folks to purchase gift cards under the guise that Pastor Will is busy or currently in a meeting and doesn’t have time to purchase the gift cards himself.
It is imperative to note that our Pastors do not and will not ask you to purchase gift cards.
Upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that these emails do not originate from Pastor Will’s official MyFPC.org email address. Although the scammer has not directly compromised Pastor Will’s official email account, they have attached his name to a Gmail.com email address in an attempt mislead recipients.
It is crucial to exercise caution and vigilance when anyone asks you to purchase gift cards through email.
Video Devotional: Caring for the Least of These My Brothers and Sisters
Our church is going through a period of discernment in our homeless ministry. Therefore, it seems timely to remember Jesus’ instruction in Matthew 25, which clearly tells us, “just as you did it to one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did it to me.”
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 | January 19 – February 8, 2025
Monday, January 20 – FPC Office Closed on MLK Jr. Day
The FPC church office will be closed January 20 in observance of MLK Jr. Day.
Mondays, from 1-2:30PM – Light Team
There will be no meeting on Jan. 20th.
The Light Team has started a new six week video series by Author & Pastor Andy Stanley called “Irresistible.” This study takes a fresh look at the earliest Christian movement and reveals what made the new faith so compelling…and what we need to change today to make it so again? All women are invited to join for connection time. Please contact Lynda Bennin blbennin@tds.net for more info.
Wednesdays, from 7-8:30PM – FPC Men’s Ministry Group
FPC Men’s Ministry Group has started a new video series by Max Lucado called “In the Footsteps of the Savior” – This is a six-week study as described on the video summary page: “You and your small group are invited to come with Max through Capernaum, Galilee, Caesarea by the Sea and more. As you learn more about the places where Jesus walked, you will come to understand Jesus himself, where he came from and why he went where he went. You will better understand his humanity and his divinity with an enriched vision of life clarified for you.” All men are welcome and please contact David Sliwicki david.sliwicki@gmail.com for more info.
Sunday, January 26, following worship – Annual Congregational Meeting
Immediately following worship on Sunday, January 26. Please join us for the Annual Congregational Meeting in the Sanctuary.
Wednesday, January 29 at 6PM – FPC BINGO Night!
Free Pizza! Free Prizes! Unlimited Fun!
Bring your family, friends, and neighbors for a night of laughter, community, and friendly competition. Bingo is for ALL ages, and everyone is welcome!
When: Wednesday, January 29 at 6PM
Where: Fellowship Hall
Don’t miss out on the fun, the food, and your chance to win some exciting prizes. See you there!
January 30-February 1: Photo Directory Sessions!
It’s time for our new directory! It will not be complete without you!
Follow these steps to make your appointment:
- Visit www.ucdir.com
- Enter Church code: WI393 (wi as in Wisconsin)
- Enter the password: photos (all lowercase)
We will offer three photo session dates:
January 30, 31 and February 1.
Everyone photographed will receive a complimentary 8×10 portrait. Additional portraits will be available for purchase on the day of the photo session.
Friday, January 31, 12:30PM – Red Cross Blood Drive
Help save lives! The blood drive will be held down in Fellowship Hall on Friday, January 31 from 12:30PM-5:30PM.
Monday, February 3, at 6:30PM – Centering Prayer
The Centering Prayer group usually meets 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 Judy Fitzgerald.
Saturday, February 8, at 10AM and Monday, February 10, at 6:30PM and – FPC Care for the Caregivers Support Group
In the journey of caregiving, the road can often feel lonely and overwhelming. Recognizing this, FPC’s Care for Caregivers was created as a haven for those who provide care to others but often may forget to care for themselves. The monthly meetings are dedicated to providing emotional, mental, and spiritual encouragement to those who care for aging parents, family members with chronic illnesses, or loved ones with disabilities.
If you’re a caregiver (current or previous), consider attending a meeting. The meetings are drop-in style. Newcomers are always welcome. You can choose to share or just listen. Meetings are 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. If one of these times do not work for you, please let us know. To learn more, contact Marcia Chase, marchase@icloud.com or call/text at cell # (334)444-6610 and leave a message during work hours. Or just drop in to a meeting.
Remember: You’re not alone, and it’s okay to take time to care for yourself too!
Save the Date | More Info to come
Sunday, February 16, FPC’s Love in Action Day
Thursday, February 20, from 1-2:30PM – Quilters Meeting
Calling all quilting enthusiasts! Our monthly quilters’ gatherings are a perfect blend of creativity, connection, and purpose. Meetings feature plenty of socializing, a fun “Show & Tell” of our latest quilt creations, and helpful discussions to tackle any quilting challenges or questions.
In addition to sharing tips and inspiration, our group supports FPC’s Deacon’s Prayer Shawl & Quilt Ministry by crafting heartfelt Prayer Quilts to bless those in need. We also host one or two Sewing Days each year for extended fellowship and focused quilting projects.
Whether you’re an experienced quilter or just curious to learn, all are welcome. Come for the creativity—stay for the community! Contact Anne Frihart for more information.
Friday, March 7, 12PM – Red Cross Blood Drive
Help save lives! The blood drive will be held down in Fellowship Hall on Friday, March 7 from 12PM-5:30PM.
Opportunities to Serve
Join FPC Waunakee as Our Full-Time Director of Children and Family Ministry!
Are you a cheerleader for God with a love for working with kids and families? Then First Presbyterian Church (FPC) is for YOU!
As our Director of Children and Family Ministry, you’ll be:
• A fun and positive leader – ready to inspire and build on an already awesome program and community.
• Enthusiastic – leading fun programs and engaging families and volunteers
• A communicator – sharing God’s love with kids in ways that make them laugh, learn, and grow.
• A multitasker – juggling volunteers, events, and goldfish crackers like a pro.
• A guardian of safety and security – because peace of mind is priceless.
You’ll thrive here if you:
✓ Love working with kids (bonus points if you know how to turn a sticky situation into a teaching moment).
✓ Are organized, self-motivated, and great at delegating.
✓ Believe in the power of teamwork and collaboration with an amazing staff and company culture.
✓ Have a knack for listening, inspiring others, and leading change with a smile.
We’re offering a chance to lead with purpose, grow in your faith, and make a lasting impact. Plus, there’s coffee in the break room and probably some leftover cookies from Sunday school.
Ready to bring your joy, energy, and vision to First Presbyterian Church Waunakee? Let’s build a ministry that kids love and parents cheer for!
Position is 40 hours, full-time, can be hybrid-other than most Sundays. Competitive salary and benefits!
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 info@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:
- Mayonnaise
- Pancake Syrup
- Pancake Mix
- Chicken & Beef Broth
- Refried Beans
- Snack Pudding
- Granola Bars
- Cereal (Don’t need any Cheerios)
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
December 2024 Session Meeting:
Pastor Wilson read verses from Luke 2 (account of Jesus’ birth) and an essay related to Christmas from Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament by David E. Garland.
Photo Directory Update
Wes Ray and Marla Alexander provided an update on plans for a new photo directory. The last time FPC had a new photo directory was 2018. The directory was updated in 2019, but new photos weren’t taken. They looked at several vendors and decided on Unique Church Solutions. Dates planned to take photos of members for the directory are 1/30, 1/31, 2/1, 4/22 and 4/23. Everyone who participates will receive one 8×10. Session approved having Wes Ray and Marla Alexander continue with plans and activity to produce a photo directory
Report of the Clerk
Work continues on getting approvals and signatures ahead of the closing on the land sale. There is one approval needed that won’t be completed by the end of December, so the closing will likely take place in January.
There are several books of very old FPC Session meeting minutes that had been in the safety deposit box, which we closed out recently. The clerk sent some of these around the Session table and offered to bring them to planned group meetings and Bible studies.
Noted that Emily Bauer has volunteered to fill the remaining elder spot of the nominating committee. The clerk and the pastor will kick-off the committee in late January or early February.
Pastor’s Moment
- Met with the Waunakee Police Chief to connect and collaborate. Also met with the High School Principal. The principal had high praise for Ezrah and the work he is doing with students.
- The first half of the Tuesday morning Bible study is complete. Will resume with second half in the spring.
- Taking the role of teaching elder seriously; running several studies and learning opportunities for the congregation
- Off boarding plan for Christa Schmeelk is going well. A solid transition plan is in place.
- Focusing now on Christmas Eve worship planning.
- Discussion on whether we should require baptism before communion
- Session has jurisdiction over the sacraments The denomination allows communion without baptism. Should we follow the denomination or set our own boundaries? We are guided by the Book of Confessions. As to who may partake in communion, W-3.0409 says (in part): “The opportunity to eat and drink with Christ is not a right bestowed on the worthy but a privilege given to the undeserving who come in faith, repentance and love. All who come to the table are offered the bread and cup, regardless of their age or understanding. If some of those come who have not yet been baptized, and invitation to Baptismal preparation and Baptism should be graciously extended.” We had previous language in the bulletin for communion Sundays requiring baptism before communion. Some elders said that this guided them to start the baptism process with their families. Differing viewpoints were expressed. We want to guide and guard the sacraments, and consider baptism an important step in the faith journey. We also want all believers to feel welcome at the communion table. We do have FPC (First Public Communion) at FPC, where young people can learn more about the meaning and sacredness of communion. We could be more intentional about inviting the unbaptized to baptism.
- Session voted that we will drop the language from the bulletin that refers to requiring baptism before communion. We will work on alternate language to have ready for the next time communion is served.
- Discussion on church security
- In a special meeting in November, the Session voted to allow one named member to concealed carry at FPC on Sundays during worship until the December Session meeting. This was related to security concerns, partly because of the vandalism to our church electronic sign. Discussed reasons to continue this practice: political climate, upcoming Presidential inauguration, recent school shooting, and related concern for security of our members. The session authorized one named member, and others approved by Session on an individual basis, to concealed carry at FPC on Sundays during worship until the end of January, 2025.
- We may want to institutionalize this practice eventually. That would require a larger team discussion and recommendation.
Worship and Music
Working on planning for Christmas. Seeking ushers and other volunteers to fill needed roles.
Continuing discussions and gathering input for a second service – no decisions have been made, just discussing what this will look like when the time comes to add a second service.
Looking at having a contemporary Christian music “sing-along” in the sanctuary, Sunday mornings before 10:00 a.m. worship. Also considering having an 8:30 chapel service during Lent, only.
Children’s Ministry
Working on Children’s Nativity service and rehearsal, NW 56 ornament sale, sign-ups for Children’s Moment and Advent Candle Lighters.
Surveying a variety of people to get input on Sunday School timing (between services, before service, during service, etc.) … tying in with discussions related to starting a second service. Need to take into consideration the number of teachers that would have to be added for various alternatives. There are no changes planned for this school year.
VBS dates set for June 22-24, 2025.
Building and Grounds
The electronic sign was cleaned and is now operational. Thanks to John Strangfeld for coming up with the solution and getting the sign working. We did receive a preliminary payment from our insurance company. RJ is working with the insurance company to either return or use as a partial payment for roof damage.
Heating issue was reviewed in room 102 and fixed. Working on parking lot light coverage to improve security and safety. Will get chairs set up in the Narthex for Christmas Eve, avoiding the fire lane (cream colored carpeting). We’ll look at getting hot water in the basement kitchen before Lent. Faucets have to run for a very long time before the water gets hot.
Personnel
Requested prayers that a new Children and Family Ministry director is found soon. Also requested that everyone work with their contacts in ministry and other networks to refer people to the position. We may need to work with recruiting and search firms to find someone to fill the position.
Also working on Christa’s departure and transition of duties, 2025 benefits, staff recognition/gifts for volunteer staff, and distribution of Christmas love offering to staff.
Session approved the hire of Michelle Malik as nursery assistant.
Stewardship
Will be taking over the Discovery Tool (time and talent) with Jamie Roberts as the point of contact. Pledging is going well and is ahead of where we were at this time last year. Planning to communicate the official “per capita” amount to our members.
Student Ministry
Pres House dinner is planned for February 2, 2025 and Winter Retreat in Lake Geneva is planned for February 7-9, 2025. Happy to report that 19 students have signed up for the mission trip to Guatemala, which will enable the team to build 2 houses.
Adult Nurture and Spiritual Growth
Currently selecting Winter/Spring semester study curriculum for all Adult Bible Studies/Sunday School/Small Group programs. Evaluating need to have FPC host a Centering Prayer Workshop (Feb/Mar 2025) and Bethel Series class (Fall 2025). Evaluating curriculum/logistics for a 4-week Lenten series that will replace Sunday School from March 23-April 13.
Pleased to report that 30-35 people have participated in the Advent study.
Mission
Reviewed planned giving for the remainder of 2024: $1000 to Student Missions, $2000 to the Waunakee Food Pantry, $2000 to The River.
Planning “Share the Love Day” for February 16. Working with 3 mission partners (River Food Pantry, The Beacon, Shelter from the Storm). Will have activities that span skill levels and ages. Planning a light lunch, commissioning of volunteers before sending them out to the sites and/or doing projects at the church that will be taken to the mission partners later (e.g., meals, care packages).
Fellowship FUN Team
Debriefed on the pancake and parfait breakfast. This was a successful event and the flow and set-up worked well. Planning Cookies and Carols on December 8. Looking ahead to Epiphany Celebration on January 5 and Lenten Dinners starting in March. Working to find groups who will host/serve the Lenten Dinners.
New Member Outreach
The Live Nativity will be held on two nights this year, 12/20 and 12/21. Will run from 6-8 p.m. on Friday and 5-8 p.m. on Saturday. Dinner will be served for volunteers, both evenings. Have had great volunteer response.
Finance
Currently working on processing pledges, distributing offering envelopes, updating count sheets, etc. Will be processing the Christmas Love Offering in December. Will write a communication to the church explaining guidelines for pass-through donations. Also managing staff benefits and preparing for the new year.
Reminder of upcoming annual congregational meeting on Sunday, January 26.
Session approved recurring payments to vendors, using defined limits for each vendor. This will streamline payment processes.
2025 budget was a focus for discussion in this meeting.
- Adding a second position for the nursery. One of the two positions is donated for 2025. Will want to budget for both in 2026. (Can’t assume ongoing donation for this position.)
- Expecting a general fund carryover balance
- There will be a spring campaign to pay down the parking lot loan. Will include costs for upper and lower parking lot completion (pave the gravel) and addition of an upper turn lane.
- We have not historically met our obligation for per capita for the Presbytery and have only given what our members have given and earmarked specifically for per capita.
- The budget was reviewed in detail in the November meeting. There were a few remaining questions, which were resolved. Session approved the 2025 budget.
Other finance notes: Given vs. pledged for November was 92% and year-to-date is 100%. Income vs. expense for all funds is -$70,930.32. Income vs. expense for the general fund is -$67,164.0
Care Letters
Care Letters to members were signed by the Elders. Pastor Will closed the meeting in prayer, including prayers for those members receiving Care Letters.
Awaken Dane
Last week, FPC hosted over 80 people from 9 different churches around Dane County for dinner, a time of Dwelling in the Word, practice in active listening, and discussion (and homework!) about finding where the Spirit is alive in each of our neighborhoods. FPC has a cohort of folks who are participating in Awaken Dane this year: Allie Devine, Ryan Horst, Sandrine Lengue, Laura Maursetter, Trisha Neaderhiser, David Ochoa, and Christa Schmeelk. Please pray for them as they dig deeper into this powerful experience.
To learn more about Awaken Dane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAs46Td3O8I
This Week’s Birthdays: January 19 – 25
FPC Nursery for Ages 3 and under
Nursery Age 3 and Under – Room 200
The Nursery is available on Sundays from 10:00 – 11:00 AM, is staffed by church staff and volunteers who love children and want to share God’s love with them.
Music in Worship
January 19 – FPC Praise Band
January 26 – FPC Choir, Ying Wang, pianist & Mary Kay Burton, guest organist
February 2 – Ying Wang, pianist & Mitch Richards, guest organist
Praise Song of the Week
This week’s praise song, It is Well by Kristene DiMarco, is inspired by Jesus’ calming of the storm and a difficult experience in her own life. DiMarco was having trouble trying to find a house for her young family and, while not as huge of a trial compared to others, she shares that it was rooted in worry. “When Jesus calmed the wind and waves, he asked the disciples why they were so afraid,” DiMarco remarks, “to be shaken by circumstances doesn’t make any sense when you think about everything God has brought you through and what He will bring us through in the future.” In researching the background behind the hymn “It is Well”, DiMarco found that it is a “reminder that our worship of God should not be based on our circumstances, but based on who God is.” Who is God in your life? Possibly a question that is difficult to answer and if that is true, you are not alone! Let this week’s praise song draw you closer to Him and remind you of His unending presence in your life.
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.
Contact the FPC Church office if you would like to be added to our home bound mailing list and receive the printed version of the Connector each week.
The Connector comes out at 4 PM every Friday. The deadline for submissions is noon, the Wednesday prior.
