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An open letter to our College and High School Graduates:
Grace and peace to you from the people of God who worship here at FPC Waunakee Presbyterian Church. We just want to help you celebrate this “full of life” passage.
We know that your graduation is the culmination of all the effort that you have put into your life until this point. It, as well, celebrates the effort of your parents who have provided you with a warm house, good food, wise counsel and many enriching opportunities. To point out the obvious, you have not journeyed alone. Although you walk that stage and shake your principal’s hand by yourself, there was and will always be a cloud of witnesses walking along beside you: teachers who have guided you, friends who have been there for you in times of joy and in times of pain, siblings, parents, grandparents and others who have loved you and believed in you (sometimes in spite of yourself).
That great cloud of witnesses also includes church people who have taught and prayed for you. Most importantly– Jesus is, was and will always be there with you as well.
No one walked that stage for you. You had to walk it by yourself, but you are not alone. Jesus is, was, and will be there, walking with you.
Once you complete that walk, you will be changed. For this is a hinge moment in your life. Soon, very soon it will be time for you to make your own way in the world.
Oh, that great cloud of witnesses will still be there with you. Jesus will always be with you. Always. But soon you will leave this church, these friends, your family home, this community. You will go away to other places, make good friends, discover new vistas, and experience the depths of love.
This place, this church will go with you as well. The intentions of these good people will follow you wherever you end up. You have been indelibly marked by our love and by our prayers for you. No thing, no one can ever take that away from you. Jesus will always be there for you. Always. As the Apostle Paul says in Romans 8-38-39, “For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all of creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
We celebrate this great accomplishment with you. We hold you in our hearts and in our prayers thanking God for you and for this moment in your life. And we let you go with our blessing into that great unknown, knowing that Jesus will be your companion and that our love surrounds you.
You will always be welcomed here. We love you. Halleluia! Amen.
Peace,
Pastor Glen Hall Reichelderfer for
The Session, Deacons and people of FPC of Waunakee
Video Devotional: The Central Themes of the Bible
Pastor Jeff discusses the central themes of the Bible and how each of us can work to live out these themes.
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 | May 12 – June 1, 2024
Monday-Thursday, May 13-16 from 9AM-4PM – Sewing Days
Bring your sewing machine and other supplies and work on Prayer Quilts for the Church. Questions? Contact Anne Frihart.
Mondays, from 1PM-2:30PM – Light Team Meeting
We are currently watching 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!
May 13: Watch Season 1, episode 4
May 20: Watch Season 1, episode 5
Email Lynda if you’d like to join Light Team at blbennin@tds.net
Monday, May 13 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.
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!
Our last Men’s group meeting for this session will be Wednesday, May 22nd, just prior to Memorial Day. We’ll look to kick-off our new men’s group session in early September to align with our “All Church Fall Kick-Off.”
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!
Saturday, May 18 at 9AM – All Church Spring Clean Up
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and make a difference! Join us bright and early on Saturday, May 18th at 9 AM for the All Church Spring Clean Up event. Let’s beautify our church grounds together– from trimming trees to spreading mulch, every hand makes a huge impact. Contact Building and Grounds Elder RJ for more details and be part of this uplifting church-wide effort!
Sunday, May 19 at 3PM – Theology on Tap at the Schmeelk’s backyard
Join Christa and Ezrah’s in their backyard at 500 Hillcrest Drive here in Waunakee. For a casual gathering that is centered around food/drinks, connection, and conversation on a deep faith topic. Please bring your own chair and beverage! (If it rains, meet at Octopi in the back room.) cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Sunday, May 19 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!
Sunday, May 19 from 5:30-7:30PM – End of Year N56 Auction and Bowling Party
Hello Parents! Your N56-er is invited to our End of Year N56 Auction and Bowling Party at Waunabowl on Sunday, May 19 from 5:30-7:30pm.
Friends are welcome and we’ll have pizza for dinner too! If you have any questions, contact Christa Schmeelk!
Monday, May 27 – FPC Church Office will be closed
The FPC Church office will be closed for Memorial Day.
Save the Date | More Info to come
Sunday, June 2 following worship – All Church Congregational Meeting
For the purpose of electing Elders, Deacons and members of the 2025 Nominating Committee.
Monday, June 3 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, 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!
Sunday, June 16 during Worship – Pastor Glen and Patricia’s Farewell Celebration!
On June 16th, 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 until Tuesday, June 11th, 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 I hope you will be able to join the celebration.
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 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
Are you someone who is gifted in organizing spaces?
If this would bring you joy, we could use your help with our front office at FPC. Please contact Christa Schmeelk for more information: cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Many Hands Make Light Work!
Need a “porpoise”? Want to make a di”fin”erence? Help us submerge the church into a Scuba Diving Adventure for VBS (Vacation Bible School)! Decorators of all or no skill level wanted! (You could come up with your own ideas, adopt a project of ours, and/or be on the set-up or take-down team! This is something families can also do together.)
The amazing decorations are always a huge part of our VBS charm! We’d love your help, so just dive in by reaching out to Lori Phelps at lori.phelps@charter.net, text at 608-235-7899, or sign up in the church Lobby and Lori will reach out to you. Thanks mates!
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
April 24 Session Meeting
There was a request from the Waunakee Dementia Friendly Committee to publish their monthly announcements in the Connector. There was a wide variance of opinions among the Session members. It was agreed to provide staff with background information and for them to report their findings to Session.
Building and Grounds
Brian Gade got the sticking front door fixed. R&G Heating fixed the heat in the conference room. Working on disposing of broken and surplus tables and chairs. Working on getting a quote for the landscaping work for the family play area. Finalizing plans for the May spring clean-up.
Personnel
Revising job description for Director of Children’s Ministry. Looking at what is needed for staff leadership of this ministry area. Session approved filling this staff vacancy. Finalizing plans for recognition events for Pastor Glen and Patricia Coley, as they both are leaving FPC in June.
Session approved excusing Ezrah Schmeelk from Sundays he will miss this summer at FPC to work on his summer internship at the Oakland/Cambridge Presbyterian Church.
Stewardship
Working on love offering communication for Pastor Glen.
Student Ministry
Wednesday night youth group resumed after spring break and continues to draw active participation. Sunday school resumed on April 14, after a break for spring break, Lenten program and Easter. Confirmation scheduled for April 28.
Adult Nurture
Scott Legwold is working to provide a Sunday morning breakfast, with a guest speaker, in May.
Update on October 2024 women’s retreat at Green Lake conference center:
- Natalie Handley will be our women’s retreat speaker. Natalie sent a list of potential topics for the retreat. Christa is getting feedback and then will make a decision on moving forward with planning details.
- After the budget and registration/topic is determined, Christa will set the registration fee and will start sharing this in the Connector and in the Sunday bulletin.
Finance
Alan Roberts announced that love offerings will be taken for Glen Reichelderfer and Patricia Coley on their pending departures from FPC. YTD giving vs. pledged is at 105%, 104% for the month of March. Actual income vs. expense (general fund) is -$35,760.48.
April 21 Session Meeting
There was a meeting on April 21 with Session and the confirmands. Milana Lutes, Finn Schmeelk, Joey Labraco, Anna Garrison, and Olivia Lautz were unanimously (and happily) voted to be accepted into FPC’s membership.
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.
FPC’s New Member Class
On May 5, FPC of Waunakee welcomed a spirited group for our New Member Class! Participants eagerly explored what it means to be a part of our church community and the Presbyterian faith. The day was filled with lively discussions and heartfelt fellowship—God is truly at work among us!
First Public Communion
Last Sunday, we had a couple of young folks partake in their first public Communion!
Have you ever served our country in uniform?
Each year on the Sunday before Memorial Day we recognize members of our church family who have served in the past, whether discharged or retired, as well as those who are currently serving our country in uniform. This year it will be on Sunday, May 26.
If you were included in our previous listing, you will automatically be included again this year. If you would like to be included in this listing and haven’t been in the past, please contact Chris Drake in the church office at cdrake@myfpc.org by Monday, May 20.
Thank you for the sacrifices you have made and continue to make to protect our citizens and our nation. This is a powerful, annual opportunity at FPC to thank and honor the men and women who offer themselves– in life and in death– for the good of their country.
This Week’s Birthdays: May 12-18
This Week’s Anniversaries: May 12-18
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.
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
May 12 – Joyful Brass
May 19 – Ying Wang, pianist and FPC Choir
May 26 – Ying Wang, pianist and Joyful Noise
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.
