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Marking a New Chapter
I am particularly excited about this installation service because the preacher will be the Rev. Dr. M. Craig Barnes. Some in our congregation may remember Craig from his days as the pastor at Christ Presbyterian Church, Madison, where he served for five years during the late 80s and early 90s. I got to know him as a student at Princeton Theological Seminary, where he served as the president. He is an excellent preacher, and you won’t want to miss his sermons! I am overjoyed that he has agreed to preach at both the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock services. To God be the glory!
Grace and Peace,
Will
Video Devotional: The Ethiopian Eunuch
thought I understood the story of the Ethiopian Eunuch, but I missed an important foundational element. Find out what I missed 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 | September 29 – October 19, 2024
Mondays, from 1-2:30PM – Light Team
Light team is a small women’s group that emphasizes fellowship with a Bible study. Meetings take place Monday afternoons in the Gathering Place from 1-2:30.
No homework is required and our meetings are open to all. Our time together is enhanced with coffee, tea, and delicious snacks.
The Bible lesson this fall will be a video from Laura Story, “So Long, Normal.” Nothing about life with God is normal. Can we live an abundant, adventurous life in Christ? Who knows? God may have a new adventure for us! Do we need to let go and trust Him?
If you are interested in joining, or would like more information, please email Lynda Bennin.
Wednesdays, from 7-8:15PM – Youth Group
All students in 7-12 grade are invited to participate in Youth Group on Wednesdays from 7-8:15PM
Questions?
Email Ezrah at eschmeelk@myfpc.org
Wednesdays, from 7-8:30PM – Men’s Ministry Meeting
Men’s Ministry is a multi-generational group of men committed to exploring matters of Faith, Purpose and Connection. The group meets on Wednesdays from 7PM to approximately 8:30PM at the church and also plans off-site opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and community service. All men are welcome.
Join the group in the Gathering Space by the fireplace. At our first meeting of the fall, we will be wrapping up the DVD Video series “Love Does” by Bob Goff, which we started in late spring.
If you would like to hear more about our group please stop by and see us. Otherwise please contact Jim Fitzgerald at jnj57012@gmail.com or David Sliwicki at david.sliwicki@gmail.com for carpooling information and to find out more about FPC’s Men’s Group. All men are welcome to join us!
Sunday, October 6, following worship – All About FPC New Member Class
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, October 6. 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 Elder Wes Ray or email Christa: cschmeelk@myfpc.org.
Monday, October 7, at 6:30PM – Centering Prayer
The Centering Prayer group usually meets 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.
Wednesday, October 9, from 11:30AM-1PM – New Horizons Potluck
New Horizons is a gathering of First Presbyterian Church members and friends over 55 (guests of any age are always welcome). For questions or for a ride, please call Anne & Chuck Frihart: 608-512-3620 or Vicki & Steve Doty: 608-849-4058.
Saturday, Oct. 12, at 10AM and Monday, Oct. 14, 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, October 13, at 2PM – Pastor Will’s Installation Service
Sunday, October 13 – Pres House Dinner
On Sunday, October 13, FPC’s Student Ministry will be serving dinner at Pres House, a college ministry on the UW-Madison campus. This is an excellent chance for students to serve hungry college students, worship with them, and have a glimpse into campus ministry.
This opportunity is open to all 7-12 grade students. For those interested in joining us please email Ezrah Schmeelk! Or sign up by clicking the button below.
Thursday, October 17, at 1PM – Quilters Meeting
Interested in Quilting?
Join us for our meetings in the Gathering Place of FPC Waunakee! Meetings consist of a good deal of socialization, quilt “Show & Tell,” and discussion of any quilting problems/questions that might come up. The group also has one or two “Sewing Days” events each year and works on Prayer Quilts for the FPC Deacon’s Prayer Shawl & Quilt Ministry.
For more details email Anne Frihart at annefrihart@gmail.com
Friday, October 18, from Noon-5:30PM – Red Cross Blood Drive
Help save lives! The blood drive will be held down in Fellowship Hall on Friday, October 18 from 12PM-5:30PM.
Save the Date | More Info to come
Sunday, October 20, from 2:30-4:30PM – Food for Kidz
Food for Kidz will be hosted at a new location this year!
Thank you to Dane Manufacturing for hosting us.
Food for Kidz – October 20
Dane Manufacturing
500 S. Division Street, Waunakee
FPC of Waunakee has 5 tables reserved with 10 people per table for this event from 2:30PM-4:30PM.
Email Allie Devine with any questions ampalmer2@gmail.com
Sunday, October 27 – Costume Day at Church!
Superheros, Skeletons, and Bears, Oh My!
Sunday, October 27, is Costume Day for our spooktacular Sunday School kids and teachers! No need to be scared if a vampire sits next to you in service. (If a Devil sits next to you, you might want to worry!) Cookie Monster will be bringing cookies!
Sunday, November 10, at 3PM – Theology on Tap at Jim & Judy’s
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!
We are getting too big for Octopi!
We will be meeting at Jim and Judy’s House on November 10 at 3pm: 1126 Quinn Drive, Waunakee.
Contact Christa or Ezrah for more info: cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Future Meeting Dates
December 8
Opportunities to Serve
Adult/Family mission trip to Guatemala in partnership with Outreach for World Hope
The founder of Outreach for World Hope, Kim Tews, will be coming to our worship service on Sunday, September 29 for a quick presentation, don’t miss it!
January 16-21, 2025
Commitment Date: October 15, 2024
Registration Fee:$1800 $900/person. The FPC mission budget will assist by paying 50% of the cost. Fundraising templates are available to assist with the remaining costs.
Availability:
FPC will be able to take up to 15 participants. Participants under 18 years old must be accompanied by a family member.
Activities:
Team activities typically include mobile medical clinics, parasite treatment, and supplies distribution in a village with no access to medical care. Lives are saved through treatment with antibiotics, and specialized medical care is arranged for those we are unable to treat in the field. This is also an important way we identify severely malnourished children and enroll them in our programs. The team will participate in the sponsorship food distribution, giving team members with sponsored children the chance to meet and visit with their children. Other activities may include planting gardens and fruit trees, home repair projects, installation of vented cooks stoves, distribution of water filters, and orphanage and hospital visits.
Waunakee Neighborhood Connection Coat Drive
Waunakee Neighborhood Connection is currently collecting new and gently used winter coats, boots, hats and gloves for children. If you have any of these items to donate please drop them off at a bin at church. We will be collecting items from 9/29-10/6.
WNC also needs volunteers to help with their “Winter Coat” event at their facility Oct 12-18. Volunteers can sign up for one of many shifts during the week to help sort coats/items, assist with distribution, and help with after event clean up. Click here to help
Questions? Contact Carol Bleifield at dfbleifield@yahoo.com
or 608-695-2820.
Guaranteed to Make You Feel Younger… Volunteer with Children!
We currently need more warm and friendly (and silly) individuals to round out our gold medal Sunday School teaching teams. No experience necessary! Guidance, teacher manuals and materials provided. Sunday School is from 9am-9:50am. Youth volunteers are also encouraged to assist. Help on occasion or on a rotating schedule-you choose. Please consider this important calling by reaching out to our Interim Director of Children’s Ministry Lori Phelps at lori.phelps@myfpc.org. The rewards and smiles are plentiful!
We’re Hiring: Nursery Coordinator
FPC of Waunakee has a part-time position available Sunday mornings 9:30am-11:30am (job sharing considered). Main responsibilities include love and care for our littlest ones, absolute compliance with safety policies and cleanliness, and supervision of Nursery assistants. Additional fun may include Bible stories, activities, music, and crafts. With assistant, oversee 2-10 children ranging from ages newborn-3 years. Pay is competitive, and you can bring your own children or grandchildren with you to play on Sunday mornings! Christian faith, self- motivation, love of children, and warm teaching spirit essential!
Apply soon by emailing resume and cover letter to info@myfpc.org or to request an application.
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 Christa Schmeelk at cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Agrace Volunteers Needed
Volunteers are needed to assist customers and operate the cash register at the Doc Rock Café located inside the Agrace Madison campus or make companionship visits to local Agrace hospice patients in patients’ homes, nursing homes or assisted living centers.
Schedules are flexible, and free training is provided. Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Agrace at (608) 327-7163 or visit Agrace.org/Volunteer to apply online.
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:
- Canned Beef Stew
- Instant White Rice
- Sloppy Joe Sauce
- Instant AuGratin Potatoes
- Canned fruit (pears, peaches, mandarin oranges)
- Ketchup and Mustard
- Bar soap
- Knorr Pasta & Rice Sides
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
Coffee, Dessert and Listening with Pastor Will
We’re pleased to announce numerous Listening Sessions during Q4 2024. These smaller (5-20 people) settings will allow you to get to know Pastor Will in a more informal way, while also giving Pastor Will a chance to hear what is on your mind – be it hopes, ideas and plans for the future of FPC or nagging questions about Scripture and our place and mission in the secular world.
Most sessions (small S!) will be evening events (after dinner, coffee, dessert and/or snacks served) in the living rooms of PNC members or Session members homes, lasting for 90 minutes. There will also be at least two larger sessions at FPC. Participants need only bring open minds and hearts and a willingness to engage on Christian topics.
Signups will occur via SignUp Genius: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090849AEAE22A6FF2-51725106-fpclistening
A few ground rules for these sessions:
1. Please sign up for one and only one session.
2. Please no Session (big S) member or staff members – these connections are already being made on a 1-to-1 basis. Deacons, however, are welcome to attend if they have not yet connected with Will.
3. If you have already had a chance to engage with Pastor Will in a small group (non-worship) setting (say Light Team, New Horizons, ministry committee, adult bible study class, etc.) please do not sign up for these listening sessions. These sessions are designed to reach those in our 450-person flock who have not yet had the chance to engage Will on a smaller scale.
4. Home-based sessions shall be capped at eight participants (besides hosts and Pastor Will). We encourage you to join sessions that include members you don’t already know. Get to know some new friends beyond your rock solid FPC support group!
We look forward to this new way to enjoy fellowship while getting to know our new Pastor!
Already?
Does this ever happen to you? You bring in the mail after a hard day at work and there are the usual junk advertisements, Shoppers, and pleas for money. As a matter of fact, there are two letters from the NPTS (National Please and Thank you Society). You groan…but open them anyway. One is a grateful acknowledgement of your last donation and the other is a notification warning that your yearly membership is about to expire. Wait a minute, you say to yourself. I just renewed my yearly membership three months ago! You wonder how they can get away with claiming that a year is three months long. And the letter screams that the need has never been greater! It’s just never enough, is it?
And here I am, writing you a letter in the Connector…oh-oh, now what? Yes, it’s time for our Annual Stewardship Campaign! But, even though it might seem that we just did this three months ago, our pledge drive really is what it says it is—Annual! At FPC, a year still lasts for twelve months. October is right around the corner—stay tuned!
Network 56 Bible Presentations
On Sunday, September 22, 2024, Peter Bergmann, the Children’s Ministry Elder at FPC of Waunakee, presented Bibles to the students of Network 56, a dedicated group of 5th and 6th graders. This special moment marks an important milestone in their spiritual journey, as they continue to grow in their faith and understanding of God’s word.
This Week’s Birthdays: September 29 – October 5
This Week’s Anniversaries: September 29 – October 5
FPC Nursery for Ages 3 and under
Nursery Age 3 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.
Music in Worship
September 29 – Ying Wang, pianist
October 6 – FPC Choir & Ying Wang, pianist
October 13 10AM – FPC Choir & Ying Wang, pianist
October 13 2PM (Pastor Will Installation Service) – Ying Wang, pianist
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.
