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Pastoral Transition
At the June 17th FPC Session meeting, we will review both the John Knox Presbytery’s Separation Ethics Policy as well as review and sign the Covenant of Closure. This is done with every Teaching Elder (Interim or Installed minister) who departs from their church. Because of past troubles in other churches, John Knox Presbytery clearly spells out what is acceptable behavior from a former minister.
After Session reviews and approves it on the 17th, Lolly Lawrence, the Clerk of the FPC Session, and I will sign this Covenant of Closure and send a copy to the John Knox Presbytery’s Committee on Ministry for their records. This process delineates clear boundaries for the church, its members and the former minister. The process is clear and clean.
I include it here for your perusal and edification:
2024 John Knox Presbytery’s
COVENANT OF CLOSURE
Teaching Elder Glen Hall Reichelderfer and the Session of the First Presbyterian Church of Waunakee (FPC), have reviewed the John Knox Presbytery (JKP)’s Separation Ethics Policy. They also recognize that when the pastoral relationship between a teaching elder and a congregation is dissolved, the teaching elder’s relationship with members of the congregation is altered in ways that must be respected by all persons involved. The relationship that formerly existed between the minister as pastor and members of the congregation is no longer appropriate.
The minister may continue to be a friend and will continue to be a brother in Christ. However, this teaching elder is no longer the pastor.
To clarify the new relationship that will exist after June 17, 2024, the Reverend Glen Hall Reichelderfer and the FPC Session enter into the following covenant:
The Reverend Glen Hall Reichelderfer agrees:
1. Not to involve himself in any leadership and advisory role (public or private) in First Presbyterian Church of Waunakee; nor give advice to anyone involved in a congregational disagreement or dispute.
2. To avoid attending worship or any special events in the life of the church the first two years after the next teaching elder is installed unless explicitly invited to do so upon the initiative of the Moderator of Session alone; to consult with the Moderator of Session prior to attending worship or special events after two years.
3. Not to officiate in any special events in the lives of members of the congregation, including weddings, funerals, memorial services, baptisms, worship leadership, church anniversary activities, etc., unless invited by the Moderator of Session;
4. To refuse request for pastoral services made by members of First Presbyterian Church of Waunakee;
5. To refrain from giving opinions or directions regarding church business that could undermine the transitions necessary for the church and the development of the relationship between the congregation and a new pastor.
6. To take care that any relationships with personal friends who are members of First Presbyterian Church of Waunakee with whom he shares common interests and personal compatibility do not violate the above agreement.
7. To write a letter to be published in the church newsletter the month following the departure of the pastor stating these boundaries.
The Session agrees to publish this agreement in the church newsletter/on the church website and submit a copy to the JKP COM and:
1. To encourage the members of the congregation to respect the agreement entered into by Reverend Glen Hall Reichelderfer as outlined above
a. To refrain from asking Glen Hall Reichelderfer for pastoral services or to officiate at any special event in one’s personal or family life; to ask him as a guest only after consultation with the Moderator of Session.
b. To avoid discussing, writing, or emailing Glen Hall Reichelderfer regarding matters related to any aspect of the congregation’s life or ask his opinion on matters pertaining to the church.
c. To take care that any relationship with Glen Hall Reichelderfer as a friend, based on common interests or personal compatibility, observes the boundaries of this agreement. It is recommended that the former pastor develop a consistent practice of “unfriending” or “unfollowing” members of the congregation on social media and communicate this practice prior to departure.
Adopted by the Committee on Ministry: August 4, 2011
Adopted by the John Knox Presbytery: August 20, 2011
If you would like to see the JKP Separation Ethics Policy, here is the link.
We have shared so much together and discovered that God is not done with any of us or this body of Christ followers yet. As our paths diverge, let us leave with a blessing for I have been blessed by our journey together.
Peace,
Pastor Glen
Video Devotional: Jephthah Makes a Rash Vow
In Judges 11, Jephthah makes a rash vow. He promises God that he will sacrifice his only daughter when he defeats the Ammonites. How can God condone such a tragedy? What is this really about? Watch this devotion to see if there isn’t more to this Biblical story than first meets the eye.
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 | June 9 – 29, 2024
Sunday, June 9-Tuesday, June 11, from 5PM-7:30PM – VBS 2024!
We are bringing back dinner this year! Dinner will be served from 5:00-5:25 p.m.
Look forward to the usual favorites of Opening and Closing with amazing music, silly skits, singing, dancing, Bible Adventures, science experiments, Games, Bible Buddies, and so much more!
Friday, June 14, at 5PM – Dining Divas
FPC Dining Divas will be meeting at Biaggi’s in Greenway Station for dinner Friday, June 14 at 5pm.
Please RSVP by June 7th to Alka: alkadaisy@gmail.com
Saturday, June 15, at 3PM – Theology on Tap
Join us for a casual gathering that is centered around food/drinks, connection, and conversation on a deep faith topic. If you have any questions contact Christa: cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Summer Schedule:
Saturday, June 15 at 3pm
Schmeelk’s backyard – 500 Hillcrest Drive
Sunday, July 21 at 3pm
Schmeelk’s backyard – 500 Hillcrest Drive
Sunday, August 18 at 3pm
Bennins’ Condo – 5240 Bishops Bay Parkway, #112
Sunday, June 16, during Worship – Pastor Glen and Patricia’s Farewell Celebration!
On June 16 during worship we will be celebrating Pastor Glen Reichelderfer and Patricia Coley for their years of service to FPC. Pastor Glen has been our Interim Pastor for nearly two years and a familiar face around FPC for decades. Patricia has been our Director of Children’s Ministry for over four years.
Please join us in giving thanks to Pastor Glen and Patricia for all they have done for us collectively over the years and also to God for bringing them into our lives.
We are collecting Love Offerings for Pastor Glen and Patricia from Wednesday, May 1, through Tuesday, June 11, as we would like to present them with their gifts at the June 16th worship service. If you would like to contribute, you can donate to their Love Offerings via check (noting “Pastor Glen” and/or “Patricia” in the memo line). You may also donate online at myfpc.org/donate and click FPC’s Donation Page or with the button below.
Thank you, and we hope you will be able to join the celebration.
Tuesday, June 18, from 6-8:30PM – Men’s Ministry BBQ and Fellowship Night
The Men’s Ministry will be providing and grilling hamburgers and brats. Bring a dish to pass if you choose as well as your own beverage of choice.
Location:
Host is Bob Bennin. Address is; 5240 Bishops Bay Parkway, Apartment #112. It is east of the Northlake development on Highway Q, just before entering Middleton. The party will be at the outdoor BBQ area between buildings 2 & 3. Parking is available west of the (3) large brick buildings.
For more information, or to RSVP, please email Jim Fitzgerald at jnj57012@gmail.com
Tuesday, June 18 at 6:30PM and Saturday, June 22, 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.
Save the Date | More Info to come
Monday, July 1, 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 Judy Fitzgerald.
Thursday, July 4 – FPC Church Office will be closed
The FPC Church office will be closed for Independence Day.
Monday, July 15, from 12:30-5:30PM – Red Cross Blood Drive
Help save lives! The blood drive will be held down in Fellowship Hall on Monday, July 15 from 12:30-5:30PM.
Thursday, July 18, First pitch: 6:05PM – Men’s Ministry Mallards Game Night
The Men’s Ministry has reserved two tables @ 6 men per table for a total of 12 men. Depending on level of commitments we can adjust number of tables up to one week before the game.
Location: Warner Park, Madison WI
Cost: $42 per person which includes game ticket (reserved table in the Duck Blind) along with an all you can eat food buffet and soft drinks (adult beverages not included)
For more information, or to RSVP, please email David Sliwicki at david.sliwicki@gmail.com
Friday, July 26, from Noon-5PM – Red Cross Blood Drive
Help save lives! The blood drive will be held down in Fellowship Hall on Friday, July 26 from Noon-5PM.
October 18-20 – Women’s Retreat
Ladies! Join us October 18-20 (7pm, Friday evening- 11am, Sunday Morning) at the Green Lake Conference Center. Our speaker Natalie Handley will be speaking on Creative Embodied Faith: Discovering Christ in our midst by exploring a variety of spiritual practices that involve movement, creativity, and other every day activities that will help connect us to Christ. We are excited to offer this opportunity to the women of FPC (and their friends and family!) on this special Women’s Retreat weekend. Join us as together we create this safe and sacred time together to explore creative connections with ourselves, each other, and with God.
Opportunities to Serve
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.
We’re Hiring: Children’s Ministry Director
We are hiring a Director of Children’s Ministry! We are seeking a 3/4 time (30 hours/week) professional who is eager to create, manage, and administer our successful children’s Christian programs. The position offers flexible scheduling and a hybrid work model with a blend of onsite and work-from-home. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more or applying (candidates don’t have to be a member of the church), please check out the full job description here.
To apply, please click the button below to complete the job application (fillable pdf) and email the completed application along with your resume to the Church Business Administrator Kristina Maher.
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.
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
Thank you: From Alice Honeywell
Dear FPC Friends,
Your outpouring of love and concern for me and my family at the time of Booth’s untimely death and the memorial events of April 27 were phenomenal. I wish I had it in me to send personal notes to every person who reached out, sent cards, food, messages, and/or attended his services, but I hope you know how much your many Christ-like actions meant to me. I love you all.
Gratefully yours,
Alice Honeywell
A Note from your Stewardship Elder:
Anybody remember the old Eddie Cochran song from the late ‘50s, “Summertime Blues?” The tag line is “There ain’t no cure for the Summertime Blues!” Younger folks might have heard it sung by Alan Jackson. Reason I ask, is that FPC is experiencing its own financial summertime blues.
To make the situation more clear, here is what the numbers are showing:
1. You did wonderfully in the first quarter of 2024, when actual vs. pledged giving exceeded 100% in each month. That’s terrific! However, in April, actual giving fell far short of pledged giving—not so terrific. YTD actual giving stands at 98% of pledge, so it’s important that we pick up the giving pace.
2. YTD general fund giving through April is $238,103.00. That is $16,847.00 less than what was projected. That’s not a good thing at all, and the only thing that has saved us during this period is that YTD actual general fund spending has been $36,548 below plan. That is good in that Session and Staff have been frugal with FPC’s resources, but sadly, this means that fewer hearts are being touched through ministry and activities than we would like.
3. April was the first month of 2024 where actual general fund spending exceeded general fund income. This is worrisome.
4. The General Fund cash balance sits at $42,627. If April’s trend were to continue, we would run out of cash on July 15th, 2024.
5. Summer is generally a time where giving drops off – due to vacations, fewer people in church on Sundays, and other priorities that crowd out faithful stewardship to FPC. Yet, in Summer 2024, we need you to step up to ensure that we make it through a transitional summer (including several guest preachers after Glen’s departure and an ambitious plan to continue the renewal of VBS) and start the fall on the right footing to welcome Pastor Will!
6. You can help by:
A. Arranging for regular electronic giving by credit card (take the points!) or bank debit if you don’t already do so.
B. Considering increasing your giving, or at least ensuring your pledge commitment is met.
I am praying that you will take this to heart so we can say “There is a cure for the Summertime Blues!
Thank you for your faithful commitment to FPC!
Barb Cash
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: June 9 – 15
This Week’s Anniversaries: June 9 – 15
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.
Kingdom Kids will be closing for the Summer after Sunday, June 16!
Music in Worship
June 9 – Mary Kay Burton, guest organist
June 16 – Natalie & Derek Handley
June 23 – Ivory & Brass: Ruth & Paul Heinecke
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.
