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Refuse to see others as “enemies”
When I was younger, we would have a Memorial Day picnic celebrating my father’s birthday with friends of my parents. My mother’s baked chicken was the standout treat.
As I got older, I realized that Memorial Day was so much more– a time to take a sober look at war and its devastation while honoring the sacrifice of our veterans.
It seems to me that Memorial Day has several purposes:
- To remind us of the violence that we humans perpetrate between peace loving people-violence that we train others to commit in our name.
- To acknowledge and confess the price that our folly and this training has exacted out of our Armed Service men and women. Sometimes those folks have paid the ultimate price– death. Sometimes a more bodily price– loss of limb, mobility, loss of humanity, and sanity. Sometimes the price is the loss of mates/ compatriots. Sometimes it is a more hidden price like some of our WWII veterans– many who deep-sixed everything which at times leaked out in unhealthy ways like alcoholism or domestic abuse.
- To be grateful for the world that these women and men have formed for us through their blood, sweat and fears. To honor them for the sacrifices both bodily and psychologically that they have made and still endure.
- To honor, support, understand our veterans and pledge once again to be people of peace, to find ways to wage courageous, creative, compassionate peace. To participate in what the Psalmist (46) says God is doing:
God makes wars cease to the end of the earth; God breaks the bow and shatters the spear; God burns the shields with fire.
A peacemaking that prizes listening over rhetoric.
A peacemaking that resists tyranny and subjugation.
That prizes the good of the citizens of our world over politics and power.
That looks to the common good over self-interest and greed.
Has the ability to confess wrong deeds and make retributions.
Refuses to see others as “enemies” but only as friends we have not yet met.
As Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn wrote: “If only there were evil people somewhere insidiously committing evil deeds, and it were necessary only to separate them from the rest of us and destroy them. But the line dividing good and evil cuts through the heart of every human being. And who is willing to destroy a piece of their own heart?”
During this Memorial Day weekend, let us remember the dead and rededicate ourselves to forge a more peace-filled world.
Peace,
Pastor Glen
Video Devotional: Bethel Bible Series Old Testament Graduation in Bugiri, Uganda, on May 17, 2024
This episode of Scriptures for Life celebrates the graduation of 200+ Ugandan pastors and church leaders who completed the Bethel Bible Series Old Testament training on May 17, 2024, at True Light Christian Center in Bugiri, Uganda. Qualified teachers from Manna Ministries International in Kenya provided the training. These were African teachers teaching Africans! God is doing a mighty work in Bugiri, Uganda, “that you would not believe if told”!
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 26 – June 15, 2024
Monday, May 27 – FPC Church Office will be closed
The FPC Church office will be closed for Memorial Day.
Wednesday, May 29, at 8:30AM – Final Women’s Bible Study of the season
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.
Saturday, June 1, from 3-6PM – MOMco Summer Picnic!
Join us for food and family fun in the FPC outdoor space on Saturday, June 1 from 3-6pm.
This is MOMCo’s final get together of the year!
Questions? Email Patricia Coley.
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 Judy Fitzgerald.
Saturday, June 8, at 10AM and Monday, June 18 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.
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!
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 – Location TBD
Sunday, July 14 at 3pm – Location TBD
Sunday, August 18 at 3pm – Bennins’ Condo
Save the Date | More Info to come
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.
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.
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
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
Celebrating FPC Grads!
On Sunday, we joyfully celebrated our FPC graduates and wished them all the best in their future endeavors. We’re excited to see where their journeys take them next!
Adrian Lutes, Milana Lutes, Alan Olson, Eli Strangfeld, and Amy Lewis.
A Helpful Hint from your Stewardship Elder:
I can see it now…your calendar. Just like mine, your calendar says that May is almost over, already! That means June, and graduation in some families, vacations in many at some point, throughout the busy summer.
I can see your to-do lists. They probably look a lot like mine. Home projects, yard upkeep, that badly-leaning dock at the cabin up north…gotta fix that…and of course, the family camping trip to Yellowstone in July. So much to do, so many places to put your time and money, this year especially.
How about the pledge you made to your church last fall, for which we are incredibly grateful? You were planning to set it up as an automatic, “don’t even have to think about it,” electronic withdrawal. Wow—one less thing to remember as you launch into summer!
Easy to do! Our Church Business Administrator, Kristina Maher, can set you up in the blink of an eye. Give her a call, (608) 949-9445, and she will get you on the right path.
For more information (because I just gave you the basics), go to myfpc.org and click on the “Give” link at the top of the webpage or simply click here. See now—I just made your summer that much easier!
FPC Welcomes Porchlight
Last Sunday, Jessica Mathis, Director of Development, from Porchlight addressed the congregation of FPC of Waunakee, highlighting the impactful work her organization. Porchlight is the largest non-profit provider of low income housing in Dane County. She shared inspiring stories of how Porchlight provides essential services such as shelter, food, and resources to those in need. The congregation was moved by her presentation and motivated to further support Porchlight’s mission to combat homelessness. Jessica’s visit underscored the importance of community involvement in addressing local social issues.
If you’d like to learn more about Porchlight, or get involved click here.
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.
Network 56 Year End Party
SHEESH! The Network 56 Year-End Party at WaunaBowl hit different! The pizza was bussin’, the auction slaps, and it was high-key fun, everyone had a blast. BET! The vibes were on point, left no crumbs, a total W! Fam, fun, and epic memories living rent-free! No cap!
A translation for the rest of us: Wow! The Network 56 Year-End Party at WaunaBowl was an absolute blast for all the 5th and 6th graders! With tasty pizza, an awesome auction, and tons of fun, everyone had a great time. The event was the perfect way to wrap up the school year. Friends, fun, and fantastic memories! I would not lie to you!
This Week’s Birthdays: May 26-June 1
This Week’s Anniversaries: May 26-June 1
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!
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 26 – Joyful Noise and Ying Wang, pianist
June 2 – Jamison Wendlandt, vocalist and Ying Wang, pianist
June 9 – Mary Kay Burton, guest organist
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.
