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A Per Capita Story
Below is a PCUSA Pastor’s reflection on why Per Capita is important. Remember it is no longer a requirement to be paid, but an opportunity to support the greater mission of John Knox Presbytery and the endeavors of the PCUSA. Each FPC member is asked to give $36.30 to support the folks who have supported us.
“One evening 20 years ago, I was in a meeting with two local church sessions. They were discussing the congregations’ differing views on a matter before the General Assembly. The exchange was polite but candid, with passionately expressed opposing views. At a pause, one session moderator said in an offhand way,
‘Well, at least we agree on one thing: Our churches don’t really need the denomination’s help all that much.’ A hand quickly shot up. The clerk of session from that church stood and said firmly, “I respectfully disagree.”
Everyone was now paying close attention as the clerk told of a crisis the church once faced in which presbytery leaders immediately contacted the congregation.
“They advised us on legal matters. They arranged for substitute preachers. And they helped us find an interim pastor to lead through the next two years,” said the clerk.
I confess: I was the pastor who said we didn’t really need the denomination’s help. I knew our clerk was right as he urged us not to dismiss denominational leaders as “church bureaucracy,” describing them, instead, as skilled leaders who help our denomination function. As the pastor, it was my turn to speak — and apologize.
It wasn’t my best moment, but whenever I speak about the value of per capita, I tell that story.
It’s embarrassing every time, but it makes the point: Without per capita payments that provide the funding for presbytery, synod and General Assembly, the support needed in a crisis by the congregation I now serve would not have been there.
Friends from other non-connectional denominations whose own churches have gone through similar rough patches understand. They have nowhere to turn when they need help.
There are good theological and biblical arguments in support of per capita. It is the connective tissue in the body imagery of the Apostle Paul — “But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be” (1 Corinthians 12:18, NIV). Per capita provides the wherewithal for the ecclesiastical democracy of the priesthood of all believers to run smoothly. It fuels the machinery of doing church the Presbyterian way, which is quite different from independent congregational and bishop-based systems.”
I find that testimony quite powerful. We simply have not been doing our part.
This is why I am asking for each FPC member to contribute $36.30 above your yearly pledge so that John Knox Presbytery and the PCUSA General Assembly is able to do their work. Send your Per Capita contribution to Sue or just place it in the box on Sunday Morning. Please approach me if you have any further questions.
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
Romans 12:12
Video Devotional: The When, Where, and Why of Jesus Christ
In this video, Pastor Jeff answers the question of the “When, Where, and Why of Jesus Christ” as the sermon for the fourth week of Advent. This sermon was preached by Jeff at Bethel Lutheran Church in Madison, WI, on Christmas Eve, 2023.
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.
News and Announcements
We are Hiring!
Our long-time Church Business Administrator, Sue Gade, is retiring early 2024. We are currently looking for talented, faithful candidates as we look to fill this position. If you know someone skilled in bookkeeping and accounting, please share the link to our Job Opportunities webpage on the church website.
For questions, please reach out to Amy Nelsestuen,
Personnel Elder, at 608-347-3786.
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
January 21 – FPC Choir
January 28 – Student Ministry Band
February 4 – FPC Choir
Coming Events | Jan. 21-Feb. 10, 2024
Sunday, January 21 at 9AM – Snack and Auction Day!
All 5th and 6th graders are welcome to join us at Snack and Auction Day during Sunday Sunday School from 9-9:50AM.
Sunday, January 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:
- February 18
- March 17
- April 21
- May 19
Mondays thru Feb. 12 from 1PM-2:30PM – Light Team Meeting
We will start off the new year with “You Were Made For This Moment” by Max Lucado.
Light Team is open to all women on Mondays @ 1 pm. There will be time for lots of fellowship, treats, and no homework!
Start the new year by shining your “light” with other Christian women.
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 the Conference Room, entering through the west side Education Wing doors. Contact Beth Stellmacher for more info: bstell122515@tds.net.
Wednesday, January 24 at 11:30AM – New Horizons 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.
Wednesday, January 24 at 7PM – Summer Student Mission Trip Info Meeting
Any student currently in 8th-12th grade, along with their parent(s), are invited to learn about our mission trip to Milwaukee, June 18-24, 2024. Student registration will open immediately following the meeting. Contact Ezrah with questions.
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 8:30PM 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.
Join our Men’s Group in attending the No Regrets Conference sponsored by Elmbrook Church in Brookfield on Saturday, February 3rd. For more information and to sign up: www.noregretsconference.org. We are planning to carpool from FPC the morning of the conference. 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, January 28 at 11AM – Annual Congregational Meeting
Immediately following worship on Sunday, January 28. Please join us for the Annual Congregational Meeting in the Sanctuary.
Sunday, January 28 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!
This month’s topic will be: Questions to ask for a more Christ-centered 2024.
Contact Christa or Ezrah for more info: cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Wednesday, January 31 at 6PM – BINGO Night!
FPC BINGO Night! Free Pizza! Free Prizes!
All ages, ALL ARE WELCOME!
Downstairs in Fellowship Hall
Friday, February 2 at 12:30PM – Red Cross Blood Drive
The Red Cross reports that they are in emergency need for blood, they are seeing the lowest turnout in donors in 20 years. Please click the graphic below to sign-up. Thank you!
Monday, February 5 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, February 10 at 10AM and Monday, February 12 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
Wednesday, February 14 at 7:30AM-8:30AM – Drive Through Ashes
Can’t make the Ash Wednesday service? Drive through ashes will be provided by Pastor Glen again this year! Simply pull up to the front of FPC between 7:30AM-8:30AM on Wednesday, February 14th and Pastor Glen will bless you with ashes.
Wednesday, February 14 at 5PM – Lenten Dinner
Each Wednesday of Lent beginning February 14 with the final Lenten Dinner on March 20.
Wednesday, February 14 at 6PM – Ash Wednesday Service
Join us on Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, on Wednesday, February 14 at 6PM in the Sanctuary. Lent is the forty days (excluding Sundays) leading up to Easter. The number forty is significant as it refers to Jesus’ forty days in the desert prior to beginning his ministry of teaching.
Thursdays, starting February 15 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.
Sundays, starting February 18 to March 17 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 Sunday mornings 9am-9:50am in the upstairs youth space from February 18 through March 17.
Opportunities to Serve
Volunteers Needed for Lenten Communion
We are hoping to host Communion every Sunday of Lent.
February 18 to March 17.
We will need volunteers to prep the communion, setup/clean-up communion and to Distribute the Elements (Past/Present Elders only).
If you would be interested in helping us out, please click below to sign-up.
Thank you in advance!
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.
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.
