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Love your enemies
“As for you, you meant evil against me,
but God meant it for good” –Joseph
“Love your enemies” —Jesus
My soul has been nourished by the Baptist preacher, theologian, and mystic Howard Thurman. In 1949, Howard Thurman published a classic book that would shape the civil rights movement, titled Jesus and the Disinherited. In it, he wrestled with what Christianity, religion, and Jesus had to do with a black man living in a society where his back is constantly against the wall. Howard Thurman said that he learned the power of love from his grandmother. Raised in a Southern state by his mother and grandmother during a time of segregation, the Thurmans happened to live on the border of the segregation line. On one side of their house lived a black neighbor, and on the other side lived a white neighbor.
The white neighbor resented living next door to a black family. To express her disdain, she cleaned out her chicken coop daily and tossed the manure over the fence into Thurman’s backyard. Thurman often wondered why his grandmother didn’t respond in righteous anger, as this happened almost every day. The white woman would come out of the chicken coop and throw manure over the fence, while Thurman’s grandmother remained unbothered. Years later, the white woman fell seriously ill.
Mrs. Thurman, a Christian woman, noticed that her neighbor was ill, so she packed some homemade chicken soup made with vegetables from her garden and cut some roses from her backyard. When Mrs. Thurman knocked on the door, her white neighbor opened it, and with suspicion in her voice, she said, “Can I help you?” Mrs. Thurman replied, “Well, I came to help you!” and showed her the soup. The neighbor was so weak she couldn’t resist. She let her in, and then, because she was so weak, she went back to her bedroom to lie down. Mrs. Thurman followed. At one point, Mrs. Thurman asked, “Do you have a vase?” She found a vase and began to arrange the roses. The neighbor asked her, “Where did you get those flowers? They are beautiful!” Thurman’s grandma smiled and said, “You know all that chicken manure you’ve been throwing over the fence all these years?” Well… I’ve been using it as fertilizer.
“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 | June1-June 21, 2025
Sundays, beginning June 1 at 9AM – New Summer Worship Time!
Join us for worship this summer at 9AM in the Sanctuary, starting Sunday, June 1 through August 31.
Come enjoy a meaningful time of worship, music, and community—all before your summer day gets going! We can’t wait to see you there.
Mondays, at 1PM – Light Team viewing The Chosen, Season 2
Each Monday at 1PM, the Light Team will be watching Season 2 of The Chosen together.
Come experience the life of Jesus and His disciples in a fresh and powerful way. All are welcome—bring a friend and join us for thoughtful conversation, community, and inspiration each week through June 30.
Questions? Please contact Lynda Bennin blbennin@tds.net for more info.
Tuesdays, through June 3 – New 5-Week Bible Study: Psalms – Led by Pastor Will
Name of Study: “Psalms as a Grammar for Faith”
When: Every Tuesday, from April 29-June 3 – 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: Pastor Will plans to begin preaching a new sermon series around the Psalms beginning in May and concluding in mid-June. Much like we did with our study on Mark, our new study around the Psalms will coincide nicely with his sermons. As we study the Psalms together, Pastor Will is recommending that along with our Bibles, we use a book he’s studied previously from his Baylor days: “Psalms as a Grammar for Faith: Prayer and Praise” by W.H.Bellinger Jr. This book has five chapters and gives good orientation to the Psalter as a whole in a scholarly way that is yet accessible for the layperson. Cost of the book is $29.95 on Amazon Prime. Please know FPC would help offset this cost for anyone who might have interest and/or a need to do so.
Please contact Jim Fitzgerald if you would like to join or have any questions.
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.
Thursday, June 5, at 5PM – Dining Divas meeting at Adler’s
FPC women are all invited to eat together as Dining Divas. Next dinner will be at 5PM at Adler’s, located at 8202 Watts Rd, Madison, on Thursday, June 5.
Please RSVP to Alka
alkadaisy@gmail.com
Monday, June 9, at 6:30PM & Saturday, June 14, at 10AM – 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 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 does 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!
Save the Date | More Info to come
June 22-24, from 5:30-7:30PM – VBS True North!
At True North VBS, kids will learn that we can trust Jesus in this wild world! VBS is for children from age 4, up to and including 4th grade. Kids will enjoy Bible stories, games, music, crafts, projects and LOTS OF FUN!
Bring your friends and family!
Friday, July 4 – FPC Church Office will be closed
The FPC Church office will be closed for Independence Day.
Opportunities to Serve
VBS Volunteers Needed!
VBS True North is coming June 22–24, and we need your help to make it an unforgettable experience for our kids! From guiding groups to helping with crafts, games, snacks, and more—there’s a spot for everyone to serve. Whether you can volunteer one night or all three, your time and heart will make a big difference. Sign up below to be part of this faith-filled adventure!
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!
Seeking a Director of Student Ministry to Inspire and Lead
Our Mission: 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.
Job Status: 20-30 hours per week including Sundays, hourly wage, flexible scheduling, onsite or hybrid with Head of Staff Approval
Purpose: To provide leadership, direction, coordination, and support for the church’s program and mission of Student Ministry to reach middle and high school students.
Qualifications and/or Gifts Required:
- This position is to be filled by a committed Christian of strong faith, with dedicated discipleship and a love of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, who is seeking to live a life commensurate with this faith.
- This person should have strong communication skills, a love and concern for students, an ability to relate well to them, and an ability to work well with others in ministry.
- Strong Leader and Team Builder: Ability to recruit, lead and motivate a team of volunteers and staff, embracing innovation and leading change.
- Possesses a desire and ability for collaboration with others within the church, and with others in the community, for continued growth and partnerships.
- A bachelor’s degree is preferred (student ministry, pastoral ministry, ministry leadership, education, human development or equivalent), and/or documented experience in working with teenagers.
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
- Cereal
- Pasta Sauce
- Chunky Type Soups
- Dinty Moore Beef Stew
- Manwich
- Chicken or Beef Broth
- Ritz type Crackers
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
Ask and you shall receive!
We are thrilled to share that a very generous—and anonymous—donor has stepped forward to donate an electric stove for the Fellowship Hall kitchen! This thoughtful contribution will be a blessing to many, helping to support the meals, events, and ministries that bring our church family together.
This Week’s Birthdays: June 1-7
This Week’s Anniversaries: June 1-7
FPC Nursery for Ages 3 and under
Nursery Age 3 and Under – Room 200
The Nursery is available on Sundays from 8:45 – 11:00 AM throughout the month of May, is staffed by church staff and volunteers who love children and want to share God’s love with them.
Music in Worship
June 1 – 9AM – Second Century Brass Quintet
June 8 – Jamison Wendlandt, piano & vocal
June 15- Brooksy Beilke-Skoug, piano & Janson Skoug, cello
June 22 – Ross Cowing, organ
June 29 – Ross Cowing, organ
July 6 – All That Brass brass quintet
July 13 – Jessica Spicer, flute & Ying Wang, piano
July 20 – Ivory & Brass, (Ruth & Paul Heinecke), piano & trumpet/flugelhorn
July 27 – Blue Skies Saxophone Ensemble (led by church member Dennis Bear)
August 3 – Ross Cowing, organ
August 10 – Ying Wang, piano
August 17 – Sonia Driskill, harp & Ying Wang, piano
August 24 – Mary Kay Burton, organ
August 31 – Beth Wagner, piano/organ
Praise Song of the Week
This week’s praise song, Forever, by Kari Jobe, is a powerful declaration of Jesus’ victory over sin and death, inspired by Revelation 5:13. Jobe shared that she and Brian Johnson wanted to “bring glory to Jesus and paint the picture of the crucifixion again,” crafting a song that highlights the triumph of Christ’s resurrection. With poetic imagery, Forever proclaims that our resurrected King has defeated the enemy, securing eternal hope for believers. As Jobe expressed, “We will forever sing Hallelujah and glorify Jesus because of what He has done for us.” In moments of doubt, this song serves as a reminder that our faith is anchored in Christ’s unshakable victory. May it be more than a melody—it is a proclamation of truth, declaring that we serve a risen Savior who reigns victorious now and forever.
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 have provided them with an understanding of reflective listening, boundaries, and the importance of absolute confidentiality.
Since its 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.
