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God on our Terms? Emptiness! God on God’s Terms? Salvation!
The first two of the Ten Commandments address issues of idolatry; the first commandment prohibits the worship of false gods, while the second prohibits misrepresenting the true God. Let me elaborate on the second commandment. The text states: “You shall not make for yourself an idol” (Ex 20:4, NRSV). To “make” something implies that the creator is in control. The potter shapes the clay into whatever they desire. Therefore, when we “make” an image of God, we distort God into whatever we want God to be. Often, our “image” of God mirrors an image of ourselves.
We want God to be like us. We want God to love like us, think like us, vote like us, and even hate like us. Presbyterian author Anne Lamott states, “You can safely assume you’ve created God in your own image when it turns out that God hates all the same people you do.” To create God in our image is to create an idol. Yet, there’s a problem: idols make promises they cannot keep. The psalmist beautifully expressed this idea: “Their idols are silver and gold, the work of human hands. They have mouths but do not speak; eyes but do not see. They have ears but do not hear; noses but do not smell. They have hands but do not feel; feet but do not walk; they make no sound in their throats” (Psalm 115: 4-7). Our idols may look the part, but they can never fill the role. Idols not only make empty promises; they also create empty people. To have God on our terms through idols leads to an empty heart and an unfulfilled life. The psalmist says: “Those who make [idols] are like [idols]” (Ps. 115:8).
Having God like us on our terms, on one hand, leads to emptiness. Having God like us on God’s terms, on the other hand, brings salvation. The gospel’s good news is that God is like us, but not on our terms; rather, on His. Paul’s letter to the Colossians states, “Jesus Christ is the image of the invisible God.” In Christ, God became like us so we could be like Him, living and reflecting His image. That’s what salvation is all about.
Peace,
Will
Video Devotional: The 23rd Psalm and the Valley of the Shadow of Death
The 23rd Psalm is Jeff’s favorite psalm. Perhaps it is your favorite as well. Did you know that the first hearers of the psalm would have pictured “the valley of the shadow of death” as a real place? See that place in this episode of Scriptures for Life.
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 | March 30-April 19, 2025
No Children’s Sunday School on March 30
There will be no Children’s Sunday School on March 30 as our volunteers will be away for Spring Break. However, our nursery will be open for our 0-3 year olds!
Sundays, through April 13 from 9-10AM – Adult Lenten Sunday School
This Lenten season, join us for a five-week Adult Sunday School series through April 13 at 9 AM, as we journey through He Chose the Nails by Max Lucado. Together, we’ll reflect on the profound gifts Christ gave us through his crucifixion—gifts of grace, love, and sacrifice, symbolized by the cross, the thorns, the nails, and the empty tomb. Through powerful video sessions and meaningful discussions, we’ll be reminded of God’s whisper: “I did it just for you.”
Sundays during Lenten Season, 9AM or 10AM – Two Sunday Worship Services!
Each Sunday during Lent, we’re offering a special 9AM service during the Lenten season—everything you love about a typical Sunday service, just in a shorter, 45-minute format. It’s a beautiful way to reflect, worship, and prepare your heart as we journey toward Easter.
The 9AM service will be held in the Chapel, but if attendance calls for it, we will move to the Sanctuary.
We will also continue to offer our traditional service format at 10AM in the Sanctuary, so you can choose the worship experience and time that fits you best.
Mondays, from 1-2:30PM – Light Team
The Light Team is currently doing a six-week series on “The Last Days of Jesus.” Walk with Jesus this Lenten season as He prepares His disciples for His death. This series includes historical and cultural background, a closer look at Biblical text, and then applying the lessons to your life. All women are invited to join for connection time. Please contact Lynda Bennin blbennin@tds.net for more info.
Tuesdays through April 15 – 8-Week Bible Study: Mark Part Two – Led by Pastor Will
Name of Study: “Mark”- Abingdon New Testament Commentaries
When: Every Tuesday, through April 15 – 7:30 am start time with hard stop @ 8:30 am
Location: M-N-M’s Coffeehouse, 509 W. Main St., Waunakee
Bible Study Leader: Pastor Will Wilson
Overview: After taking a short break over the Advent season, we wanted to let you know we will resume the second half of our 8-week study (chapters #9-16) on Mark’s Gospel led by Pastor Will Wilson at M-N-M’s Coffeehouse.
Please contact Jim Fitzgerald if you would like to join or have any questions.
Wednesdays, through April 9, from 6-7:30PM – Midweek Manna and Lenten Dinners
Each Wednesday throughout Lent, through April 9, join us in the Sanctuary for Midweek Manna from 6-6:30PM—a brief, meaningful time of worship and reflection. Featuring a Lenten message and communion, these services provide a sacred pause to refocus and renew as we journey toward Easter. Be nourished by God’s word and presence in the middle of your week.
Afterward, stay for Lenten Dinners from 6:30-7:30 PM in Fellowship Hall, hosted by various FPC ministries. Enjoy delicious meals, warm fellowship, and spiritual reflection as we nourish body and soul. Bring friends, family, and neighbors—everyone is welcome! Whether you come for the food or friendships, you’ll leave blessed. Let’s walk this season together!
Wednesdays, from 7-8:30PM – FPC Men’s Ministry Group
FPC Men’s Ministry Group has started a new video series by Jon Ortberg called “Who Is This Man?” In this five-session video-based study, Ortberg shows how Jesus’ influence has swept over history, bringing his inspiration to the fields of art, science, government, medicine and education. And how his vision for us to lead lives of dignity, compassion, forgiveness and hope continues to inspire and challenge humanity today.
All men are welcome and please contact David Sliwicki david.sliwicki@gmail.com for more info.
Thursdays, through April 10, from 5:15-6PM – Heavenly Stretch
A six-week Lenten session of Heavenly Stretch will run every Thursday through April 10 from 5:15-6PM in room 305. Bring a mat and wear comfortable clothing. Recommended donation is $5 per session (unless you want to give more!) and will be given to Shelter From the Storm Ministry.
Heavenly Stretch is taught by Lolly Lawrence, who is a 200-hour certified yoga teacher. She also has certifications in Holy Yoga, chair yoga, and Silver Sneakers Yoga. She currently teaches Wednesday mornings at the Waunakee Village Center.
Saturday, April 12, at 10AM & Monday, April 14, 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 usually in the Chapel, however during Lenten Season we will be meeting in Room 204, 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!
Sunday, April 13, 9AM or 10AM – Palm Sunday
Come celebrate Palm Sunday with us on Sunday, April 13 as we remember Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem!
9:00 AM – Chapel 10:00 AM – Sanctuary
Wave your palms, lift your voices, and prepare your hearts for Holy Week. We’d love to worship with you!
Thursday, April 17, 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.
Thursday, April 17, 7-8PM – Maundy Thursday Worship Service
Join us for our Maundy Thursday worship service on Thursday, April 17, at 7 PM in the Sanctuary. This meaningful service invites us to reflect on the Last Supper, Jesus’ command to love one another, and His journey to the cross. Through Scripture, prayer, and communion, we remember Christ’s sacrifice and the depth of His love. Come and prepare your heart for Easter as we worship together.
Maundy Thursday, observed during Holy Week, commemorates the night Jesus shared the Last Supper with His disciples before His arrest. The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin mandatum, meaning “commandment,” referring to Jesus’ words in John 13:34: “A new command I give you: Love one another.” This night also reminds us of Jesus humbly washing His disciples’ feet, demonstrating servant-hearted love.
Friday, April 18, Noon to 3PM – Good Friday
On Good Friday, April 18, FPC’s Chapel will be open from Noon to 3 PM for a time of quiet reflection and prayer. Whether you stay for a few moments or linger in the stillness, we invite you to come as you are and spend time in the presence of God.
All are welcome.
Save the Date | More Info to come
Sunday, April 20, 8AM or 10AM – Easter Sunday Worship
Celebrate the joy of Easter with us on Sunday, April 20! We will offer two worship services at 8 AM and 10 AM in the Sanctuary as we rejoice in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is a time of hope, renewal, and victory over sin and death—come and worship with us as we proclaim, “He is risen!” Both services will feature uplifting music, Scripture, and a message of resurrection hope. Invite your family and friends to join us for this special morning of celebration!
April 22-23: 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:
April 22 or 23.
Everyone photographed will receive a complimentary 8×10 portrait. Additional portraits will be available for purchase on the day of the photo session.
Sunday, April 27 during the 10am service – Jesus Storybook Bible Presentations (4K-Kindergarten)
If you have a child in 4k or Kindergarten who have not received a “Jesus Storybook Bible,” please contact Lori Phelps lori.phelps@myfpc.org. Bible Presentations will take place during the 10am service on April 27. Please save the date or let Lori know if you can’t attend – we still want your child to have a Bible!
Opportunities to Serve
Help Build/Deliver Waunakee Ecumenical Board Thank You Bags!
Saturday before Palm Sunday, the Waunakee Ecumenical Board along with Community Volunteers will build and deliver hundreds of Easter Baskets as a way of saying ‘Thank You’ to our Senior Church Members. If you would like to help, we greatly need Volunteers to help deliver Easter Baskets at 9:30am Saturday April 12, 2025, Peace Lutheran Church, 701 S Century Avenue, Waunakee, WI.
Questions? Email Theresa at theresaalt@tds.net
Administrative Assistant – 25 hours per week, Monday-Thursday
Purpose: To perform clerical and administrative tasks that will support the overall function and activities of the church and oversee all activites of the church office. The Administrative Assistant must create an environment that is inviting to anyone calling or visiting the church office and comforting to those who may be dealing with difficult life situations.
Skills & Qualifications:
1. Is a committed Christian of strong faith, dedicated discipleship, and love of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, who is seeking to live a life commensurate with this faith.
2. Professional with outstanding interpersonal skills with the ability to deal tactfully and compassionately with people; possess a pleasant and welcoming manner.
3. Excellent clerical, communication, and organizational skills with attention to detail.
4. Strong knowledge of computers including Microsoft office programs and internet research. Previous experience with databases is helpful.
5. Experience with and ability to use a multi-line telephone system.
6. Highly effective verbal and written communication skills.
7. Must be able to discern needs, take initiative, prioritize and multi-task.
8. Ability to establish and maintain consistently positive working relationships with church members, staff, visitors, officers, leaders, volunteers, and all others.
9. Must be reliable, responsible, flexible, adaptable, possess a sense of humor, and be a team player in an atmosphere that demands confidentiality, loyalty, and a true team spirit.
Benefits:
FPC offers an array of benefits for part-time employees, and are dependent on hours worked including vision insurance; paid time off; paid holidays; retirement savings plan; group life insurance; long-term disability; and bereavement leave.
Responsibilities:
• Greet and direct all visitors, members, and service technicians/vendors and assist them as needed during office hours. Program doors for building access.
• Answer office phones, ensuring that calls are answered personally during office hours and that callers receive courteous, caring, and accurate service.
• Manage phone system including accurately routing calls, checking/delivering messages, returning calls, and updating voice mail greeting and instructions.
• Maintain the Senior Pastor’s calendar, keeping it up-to-date and coordinate meetings with staff, members and others.
• Coordinate details and logistics for events such as baptisms, funerals, and weddings interacting with families/members, the pastor, staff, volunteers, and outside entities as needed. This could include the coordination of food, special bulletins, audio/visual support, etc.
• Coordinate administrative tasks for Session/officers including preparing monthly Session packets, assemble training materials, and assist Senior Pastor in coordinating training sessions for new Elders/Session members.
• Utilize church management software to maintain all membership records (including baptisms, confirmation, marriages, deaths, and membership status, military service list, etc.) and maintain contact lists for staff, Elders and Deacons.
• Pick up, sort and distribute incoming mail.
• Assist with correspondence and outgoing mailings. This includes preparing and sending out birthday cards, new member welcome letters, follow up correspondence to visitors, and full-member mailings (Advent mailing, stewardship letter/pledge cards, etc) as directed by the Senior Pastor, staff or Elders/officers.
• Maintain inventory of congregational, office, and janitorial supplies and reorder as needed. Keep office supplies organized and make materials and supplies available to staff, leaders and volunteers as needed.
• Operate and regularly clean office equipment (including copiers, printers, etc), scheduling maintenance or repairs as needed. Coordinate with Buildings & Grounds Elder to schedule repairs and maintenance and/or emergency service as needed (including elevator service, plumbers, etc).
• Coordinate building rentals/usage, advising and coordinating room setups with Building & Grounds Elder.
• Contact and schedule volunteers needed for office staff relief and large mailings; actively assist in training new office volunteers, maintaining an up-to-date contact list.
• Coordinate/schedule staff outings and birthday recognitions as requested.
• Maintain files and records as they pertain to this position.
• Other special projects or assignments as needed and/or assigned.
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:
- Toilet Paper
- Kleenex
- Mandarin Oranges
- Canned Peaches
- Pasta Sauce
- Strawberry Jam
- Ketchup
- Cereal
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
You may have free money to impact organizations like FPC!
Eligible Thrivent clients can direct 2024 Choice Dollars® to FPC or other causes before March 31. For more info or to direct Choice Dollars, call 800-847-4836 and say “Thrivent Choice,” or click the banner above!
This Week’s Birthdays: March 30-April 5
This Week’s Anniversaries: March 30-April 5
FPC Nursery for Ages 3 and under
Nursery Age 3 and Under – Room 200
The Nursery is available on Sundays during Lent from 8:45 – 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
March 30: 9AM – Beth Wagner, guest pianist
March 30: 10AM – Joyful Noise Woodwinds & Ying Wang
April 2: 6PM – Midweek Manna – Jamison Wendlandt, pianist
April 6: 9AM – Beth Wagner, guest pianist
April 6: 10AM – Mitch Richards, guest organist
April 9: 6PM – Midweek Manna – Ying Wang
April 13: 9AM – Palm Sunday – Beth Wagner, guest pianist
April 13: 10AM – Palm Sunday – FPC Choir, Ying Wang & Mary Kay Burton, guest organist
April 17: 7PM – Maundy Thursday – FPC Choir & Ying Wang
Praise Song of the Week
This week’s praise song, Blessed Be Your Name, written by Matt and Beth Redman, is a powerful hymn that has touched countless lives since its release in 2001. Inspired by the biblical story of Job, the song invites believers to worship God in every circumstance—whether in seasons of joy or moments of deep struggle. Its timeless lyrics encourage us to trust in God’s unchanging goodness, as Matt Redman reminds us, “Situations change for better and for worse, but God’s worth never changes.” As we reflect on this hymn, let’s consider: How can we cultivate a heart of worship that remains steadfast, even when life feels overwhelming?
When life is hard you need more than a cute poster.
If you are Having a tough time with:
• Dealing with family problems
• Chronic or terminal illness in your family
• Grief
• Loneliness
• Divorce recovery
FPC has a group of Stephen Minister Caregivers trained to walk with you through these problems. They help you: think things through, find resources available, look for a Biblical view of the problem, pray for you and with you if you wish. The 50 hours of training has provided them with an understanding of reflective listening, boundaries, and the importance of absolute confidentiality.
Since it’s beginning in 2017, Stephen Ministries helped hundreds of people both from FPC and the wider community journey, through tough times. If you want more information, you can talk to a pastor, a deacon, or one of the active Stephen Ministers listed below.
Tryg Knutson – 608-622-9539
Jill Umlauf – 715-360-5962
FPC Stephen Ministry is here for you!
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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.
