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The Coming Holy Week
This coming Thursday March 28 at 6pm, there will be a Holy Thursday Worship Service in the Chapel. Some call this day Maundy Thursday after the new commandment (“love one another”) that Jesus gives to the disciples on this night. The Latin for that phrase begins with “Mandatum” which means “Command”.
The service is simple:
- We sing some teachable songs.
- We, as a group, read the Passion according to Matthew.
- We reflect together on what we just heard.
- We celebrate Communion.
- We sing a simple psalm before ending the service.
This is probably my favorite worship service during the year. Please come.
On Good Friday (March 29), the church will be open between the hours of 12 noon and 3pm for an individual worship experience.
- We have created a booklet called “Journey to the Cross” which will lead each individual on a journey with Jesus through his passion.
- Those who come will be directed to pause and ponder what Jesus went through on that “Good” Friday.
- Christa Schmeelk, Pastor Ben and I will be available during those hours to talk and pray with individuals.
Come anytime between Noon and 3pm that day and walk more deeply into the mystery and wonder of this Holy Day. It is so worth it.
Blessings as we enter into this “Holy Week”. God has graces for you to discover.
Peace,
Pastor Glen
“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 | Mar. 24 – Apr. 13, 2024
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
Monday, April 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 Pastor Glen.
Sunday, April 7 at 10AM – Congregational Meeting
The Session has called a congregational meeting upon the request of the PNC for Sunday, April 7 immediately following worship to elect a pastor and approve terms of call. The candidate for pastor will preach that day.
Mondays, through April 29 from 1PM-2:30PM – Light Team Meeting
Starting March 25 we will start Season one of The Chosen. The Chosen is a multi-season television drama about the life of Jesus Christ. The first season introduces Jesus and the calling of His initial disciples. All, including men, are invited to watch this wonderful series with the Light Team.
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, through 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.
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 DVD Video series “The Discipleship Playbook” by Dr. Paul David Tripp which is a 9 session Men’s Bible Study that will share stories & testimonies from several faith based professional football players on what it means to live life as a true disciple!
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!
Monday, April 8 at 6:30PM and Saturday, April 13 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.
Wednesday, April 10 at 11:30AM – New Horizons Potluck and 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.
Save the Date | More Info to come
Sunday, April 14 during the 10am service – Jesus Storybook Bible Presentations (4K-Kindergarten)
If you have a child in 4k or Kindergarten who has not received a “Jesus Storybook Bible,” please contact Christa Schmeelk cschmeelk@myfpc.org. Bible Presentations will take place during the 10am service on April 14. Please save the date or let Christa know if you can’t attend – we still want your child to have a Bible!
Sunday, April 14 from 11:30AM-1:30PM – What’s Cookin at FPC?
Tryg Knutson will be teaching us how to make Lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread, on Sunday, April 14 in the Fellowship Hall: 11:30-1:30pm We will have a simple lunch together after service and then learn how to make Lefse together. This will be hands on– and you will get flour on yourself, so dress accordingly or feel free to bring an apron! Please RSVP to Christa at cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Friday, April 19 at 6PM – Ladies Dining Out at Amber Indian Restaurant
Women! You are invited to come to dinner at Amber Indian Restaurant on 6pm on Friday, April 19 in Middleton. Please RSVP to Christa Schmeelk so we have enough seats. If you are unsure about Indian food, Christa would LOVE to help you find something you would like ahead of time: cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Sunday, April 21 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
Sunday, April 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: May 19
Sunday, May 5 during the 10am service – FPC’s annual First Public Communion
FPC’s annual First Public Communion will be on Sunday, May 5 during the 10am service. For more information or to sign up, just email Christa Schmeelk! For those interested, we will have a First Communion Parent and Child Meeting following the worship service on Sunday, April 21 at 11am in the Chapel.
SAVE THE DATE! Sunday, May 5 – All About FPC
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, May 5. 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 Pastor Glen or Elder Wes Ray or email Christa: cschmeelk@myfpc.org.
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!
Join our dive team! Join us on our underwater journey and help create an unforgettable experience!
Opportunities to Serve
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
February 19 Meeting of the FPC Session:
Report of the Clerk: Lolly Lawrence attended the John Knox Presbytery meeting on 2/17/24. Noted closing of Presbytery office in Richland Center and retirement of Karen Denizen, JKP Administrator.
Finance Report:
Alan reported positive giving for January, given vs. pledged was 126%. Income vs. expense for the General Fund was +$1,846.81.
PNC Update:
Alan reported that there is a 50% chance that we’ll need a called Session meeting within the next month to approve terms of call for a new senior pastor. Preaching ability was heavily weighted in the candidate review. Process reminder:
- PNC will recommend one person from their group of candidates
- The Session will be asked to approve terms of call for the final candidate.
- The final candidate will be asked to preach one time, on one Sunday. There will be a congregational meeting after that service to take a vote on whether or not to call the pastor. The meeting must be announced with at least two Sundays prior notice.
- After the congregation takes the vote, the vote results will be reported to the candidate.
- If the congregation voted in favor of offering the call to the candidate, the candidate will then decide whether or not to accept the call.
Deacon Report: No report. No meeting last month.
Pastor’s Moment:
- Seeing more attendance at services
- Presided over FPC annual meeting
- Organized lunch for Elders and staff
- Convened and trained nominating committee. Next meeting is March 3. Thanked those elders whose terms are up this year for their work through some difficult transitional times at the church, and asked them to consider serving another term, if asked by the nominating committee.
- Offered “drive-through ashes” on Ash Wednesday
- Attended the confirmation retreat, which was held at the Baker farm. Noted that Ezrah Schmeelk runs an excellent retreat. 6 confirmands attended. Moving and meaningful time.
- Helping Ezrah meet Presbytery requirements. Noted that Ezrah will need some time away from FPC to meet field placement and other requirements. Just a heads-up for now, but Session will need to consider and approve in the future.
- Communion served on February 4
Special topic – Volunteer Accelerator
Christa Schmeelk attended to provide information on an application that could be used to better connect volunteers with volunteer opportunities at FPC. She gave a demo of the application. There is an upfront cost of around $2k, with around $200 for annual fees. These costs will be placed in the 2025 budget. Christa will be connecting with Elders and Deacons to get refreshed on what each ministry area needs for volunteer support. Eventually, we’ll be putting together job descriptions for volunteers, which will enable us to better train volunteers and get them plugged into the volunteer position(s) that best meet their interests and abilities.
Worship and Music:
Erik reported that Jamison (choir director) may need a few hours in the summer.
Children’s Ministry:
Peter’s report noted that Family Bingo night on January 31 had over 75 attendees and went through 27 pizzas. They currently working on Lenten Suppers, which include a 7-7:30 p.m. breakout for kids. Children’s ministry will provide the meal on February 21. They are looking ahead to the Palm Sunday Easter Trail March 17, and VBS June 9-11.
Building and Grounds:
RJ said they are fixing the furnace that services the administration wing on the main floor. Completed bathroom repairs in the lower level and education wing. Getting updated pricing for work on the outdoor picnic area.
Spring clean-up is planned for May 18. Will start promoting this event about 6 weeks before May 18.
Personnel:
Amy reported that we will not pursue an immediate replacement for Alka Van Haren. May eventually hire an administrative assistant, based on what the new Senior Pastor needs for administrative support. Met with the personnel team to determine transition plan for Alka’s duties.
Hired Kristina Maher to fill the Church Business Administrator role. Working through the onboarding plan. Job training will start on April 1, Kristina’s start date.
Offering counters are needed to count offerings and prepare the bank deposit, every other Monday morning. This takes about an hour to complete. We need two unrelated people to fill this volunteer role.
Right now, the offering counters are on an every-other-month rotation.
Stewardship:
Barb reported they are considering a campaign for spring to summer to finish paying for the parking lot and completing the remainder of the job.
Student Ministry:
Emily reported that they are currently working on their next Pres House dinner on March 3 and planning to attend the Pres House 20-year celebration on April 21. Eight students have signed up for Milwaukee mission trip in June. The confirmation class is in full swing. The students are engaged and dedicated and looking forward to the confirmation service on April 28. Planning some additional remodeling projects for the youth space. Started work on drafting a 5-year plan.
Adult Nurture and Spiritual Growth:
Scott’s reported that he is working on a Sunday Morning Breakfast with a speaker for April or May and is supporting the Lenten Bible Study and Fall retreat. He has booked the third weekend in October at the Green Lake Conference Center for a women’s retreat. Heavenly Stretch continues through March 21.
Mission:
Brice reported the Missions recently had two presentations from the missions FPC supports. Missions would like to have one monthly presentation from mission groups. They recently offboarded some of the missions that FPC supported. In the future, will work on a softer landing for offboarded mission groups.
Fellowship:
Krista reported that Fellowship is starting to look at some summer events. Focus now is preparing for staff retirement celebrations and Lenten suppers. They are looking ahead to Sunday, April 14 when Tryg Knutson will host a “What’s Cookin’ at FPC” lefse class and Sunday, April 28 possible church-wide party for confirmands.
New Member Outreach:
Wes made some observations on the number of people attending the Sunday service, finding that we’ve been running out of bulletins some Sunday. Encouraged Session to think ahead about some of the pluses and minuses of moving from one service to two. Nothing immediate planned for changing service frequency or times.
The sanctuary fits about 325 people. We’ve been averaging around 180 in attendance. For now, we’ll print more bulletins and keep an eye on growth in attendance.
Pastor Glen distributed a poem for Lent titled Ash Wednesday by Jan Richardson. Glen reminded us that Lent is sometimes seen only as a time to deny ourselves or give things up, but can also be a time to take on new spiritual practices.
Glen closed in prayer, praying for the members who recently received care letters. A group of members is selected each month and prayed for in the Session meeting.
March 5 Called Meeting of the FPC Session:
Meeting attendees included Pastor Glen, the Session of FPC, the entire PNC and Sue Melrose, representing JKP’s Committee on Ministry.
The PNC reported that they have found a candidate for the Senior Pastor. Panel interviews were held with a group of finalists. The PNC watched multiple sermons from the finalists. The finalists toured the church, taught a small group lesson for the PNC, and in some cases, met with selected staff members.
After completing the interview and review process, the committee came to a unanimous decision on the candidate to recommend.
The Session reviewed the terms of call. Questions were addressed. Note that the terms of call will continue through 2025, so will not need approval in the January 2025 congregational meeting.
A motion was taken and approved unanimously to approve terms of call for the Senior Pastor candidate.
A second motion was taken and approved unanimously to approve bringing the candidate to the service on April 7 to preach. A congregational meeting will follow to vote on calling the candidate to FPC.
Discussion:
- The congregational meeting will be announced twice. The first announcement will be in the March 10 service. Other announcements will occur in the Connector and also in an all-church mailing (either email or USPS).
- There will be a short Q&A session after the candidate preaches and before the congregation votes to call the candidate to the role of Senior Pastor and Head of Staff
- The congregation will also vote to dismiss the PNC
- Candidate’s profile and terms of call will be mailed to the congregation so it is received shortly after Easter Sunday and before April 7
Help finding a new charity or organization
For many years, some members of FPC and I have been gathering discarded dolls, cleaning them and dressing them in new clothes. These dolls have been sent to a daycare center for the children of migrant workers. After 44 years, Sister Jean at the daycare center is retiring. I am therefore looking for a similar charitable organization that would like to distribute these dolls at Christmas. It is my hope that some members of the congregation will know of such an organization. The location of the charity does not matter since I am willing to send them anywhere in the U.S.
Thanks!
Joyce Millett
robertmillett@hotmail.com
Easter Trail 2024
No FPC Nursery on March 24 or March 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.
No Kingdom Kids on March 24 or March 31, but there will be a Children’s Moment during service!
Kingdom Kids
3-year-olds through Kindergarten will be dismissed after the Children’s message during Sunday service.
No Sunday School on March 24 or 31
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!
No Network 56 on Sunday, March 24 or March 31
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.
No Student Ministry on Sunday, March 24 or March 31
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
March 24 – Mary Kay Burton, guest organist
March 31 8AM – Diane Robinson, vocalist
March 31 10AM – FPC Choir and Joyful Noise
April 7 – 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
Want to receive an email notification when the weekly Connector is updated? Sign up here!
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.
