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God values our hearts
Dear Church Family,
When Abby and I were moving from Texas to Wisconsin almost a year ago, I spent a lot of time looking at homes on Zillow. Many homes I’ve seen are as beautiful on the inside as on the outside. However, I have often been amazed at how some listings on the site can feature an attractive exterior design, with well-kept lawns and carefully curated landscaping, creating the impression that this is a home anyone would want to buy, only to discover that the inside of the house is a mess. I’ve also found the opposite to be true; some houses look terrible on the outside, but they are a dream on the inside.
What is true about homes is also true about people. We all know people who are beautiful on the outside, but on the inside, they are a mess. They have flawed character. They do not love other people. They’re as ugly on the inside as they are beautiful on the outside. Ideally, I want a house that is beautiful inside and out. However, if I had to choose between the two, I would prefer a home with nice interior design that’s well-built. For me, when it comes to buying a house, the inside matters more than the outside.
Indeed, when it comes to our standing before God, He cares much more about what’s inside than what’s outside. In 1 Samuel 16, we read about the prophet Samuel searching for Israel’s next King. God sent Samuel to a man named Jesse, one of whose sons would become the next King. When Samuel arrived, Jesse’s sons began to pass by him, and Samuel saw Eliab and thought, “Surely this is the one” (my paraphrase). At this point, God admonishes Samuel, saying, “Do not look on his appearance or the height of his stature, because I have rejected him, for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).
God cares more about what’s within than what’s on the outside. God values our hearts. Therefore, we must reflect on whether we invest as much in cultivating beautiful hearts as we do in enhancing our appearances. Are we striving to develop hearts filled with love, forgiveness, gratitude, generosity, and kindness? May our prayer to God echo that of the psalmist in Psalm 51: Create in me a clean heart, O God.
In Christ,
Will
“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 | June 8-28, 2025
Sundays, through August 31 at 9AM – Summer Worship Time!
Join us for worship this summer at 9AM in the Sanctuary, starting through Sunday, 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.
Monday, June 9, at 6:30PM and 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!
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!
Save the Date | More Info to come
Friday, July 4 – FPC Church Office will be closed
The FPC Church office will be closed for Independence Day.
Friday, July 25, from 11AM-5PM – Red Cross Blood Drive
Help save lives! The blood drive will be held in Fellowship Hall on Friday, July 25, from 11AM-5PM. Click the button below to sign up today!
Thursday, July 31, from Noon-5PM – Red Cross Blood Drive
Help save lives! The blood drive will be held in Fellowship Hall on Thursday, July 31, from Noon-5PM. Click the button below to sign up today!
Wednesday, August 6, from 10:15-11AM – Historic Organ Recital
Our historic 1891 Schuelke organ will be featured for an organ recital on Wednesday, August 6th from 10:15-11AM as part of The Organ Historical Society national convention in Milwaukee.
Bruce Bengsten, longtime organist at Luther Memorial Chapel in Madison, will be the recitalist.
Milwaukee convention attendees will be bussed to our church for the recital and also be taken to other churches in the Madison area for other recitals and viewing of historic organs.
Friday, August 22, from Noon-5:30PM – Red Cross Blood Drive
Help save lives! The blood drive will be held in Fellowship Hall on Friday, August 22, from Noon-5:30PM. Click the button below to sign up today!
Monday, September 1 – FPC Church Office will be closed
The FPC Church office will be closed for Labor Day.
Opportunities to Serve
June Cereal Drive for the Waunakee Food Pantry!
School’s out, and the need is up! With kids home for the summer, breakfast becomes even more important—and harder to keep stocked for families in need. We’re collecting boxes of cereal all month long to help the Waunakee Food Pantry stay ready to serve.
Bring your favorite boxes of cereal any Sunday throughout June and help fill their shelves (and bellies) with love!
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
May 20, 2025 Session Meeting
Pastor Will opened the meeting with a reading from John 3:16, Psalms 16, and a reading from a book by John Calvin. He asked the elders to consider a time of a real experience of God’s presence, and asked if two elders would share their experience. We heard from two elders with moving testimonies.
The meeting was opened with prayer.
Special Topic – Presentation/Demo of Neat Board Pro
Brian Gade attended to demonstrate some of the features and uses of the new Neat Board Pro. This tool will allow for video conferencing, sharing of documents in online meetings, and other collaboration support. The board will reside in the conference room, but it can be moved through the building. All it needs to be used in another location is Wi-Fi and power. Great caution is to be taken when moving it.
While Brian was in attendance, we also discussed email security and continuity.
Pastor Will moved to thank Brian for all his technical expertise and work for First Presbyterian, which was enthusiastically and unanimously approved.
Deacons Report:
David Good attended to provide a report from the deacons. The deacons will not be meeting in July, as is tradition. Deacon ministry continues. They are planning a June potluck to recognize their work over the year and appreciate those whose term is ending. Requested prayers for the Nominating Committee.
Pastor’s Moment – Pastor Will
- Katrina and Alex Aderman would like to become members. Pastor Will called a meeting for May 18, following the 10:00 service, to have Katrina and Alex come before session for membership approval. (Note, their membership was voted on and approved in the 5/18 called session meeting.)
- Communion was served on May 4.
- Happy with how his first Lent and Easter season has gone with First Presbyterian. Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday services went very well.
- Confirmation this year was incredible. It took a lot of support from many people, including Angela Himegarner, Pastor Ben, Pastor Will, Emily Bauer, and the confirmation mentors, Liz Weller, Chez Phelps, and Tim Lerdahl. The testimonies given by the confirmands were exceptional.
- The 9 a.m. Sunday service in the chapel is also going well. Still feeling it out. There seems to be a regular crowd who attends this service.
- Preaching on Psalms and also using Psalms as the basis for the Tuesday morning Bible study at MnM’s.
- Has been serving in an advisory role for the nominating committee.
- Onboarded Susan Landphier as administrative assistant, who was recommended by Pastor Susan.
- Planning officer training from 9 AM to 3 PM on May 31.
- Has been working on planning for summer and his six-week preaching break. Schedule is as follows:
- 6/22 – Pastor Ben
- 6/29 – Executive Presbyter Devon Reynolds
- 7/6, 7/13, 7/20 – Pastor Ben
- 7/27 – Abby Wilson
During this preaching break there will be some vacation time spent with family. Pastor Will has re-enrolled in the Baylor PhD program for the fall, so he’ll also be working on his dissertation prospectus. He will be in town and available, but he will not be preaching. He’ll also be using summer to prep for the busy fall season ahead.
- Session approved the baptism of Miles Anthony Aspley at the 9 a.m. service on June 22.
Pastor’s Moment – Executive Presbyter Devon Reynolds
- Reported on activities in and around the Presbytery.
- Youth Triennium is back this year in Louisville.
- Synod of Lakes and Prairies is running a week-long school/camp.
- Seeing encouraging church growth in Lancaster and Dubuque.
- As a congregation, we should encourage our pastor to take some time to disconnect and take a step back from ministry, to spend time on self, family, friends. Should also encourage them to use their continuing education, study leave and vacation.
- Ezrah Schmeelk continues to be under the care and guidance of the presbytery, and is moving on with his candidacy for ministry.
Approved calling our annual mid-year congregational meeting for Sunday, June 8, to bring forward the 7-8 proposed candidate names for election by the congregation.
The session accepted Julie Cable’s resignation from session and commends her for her work with missions. The session also accepted Steve Cable’s resignation from the FPC treasurer role and thanks him for his work as FPC treasurer. The session elected Bill Baker as the FPC treasurer, with term to end on 12/31/2026 (completing Steve Cable’s term).
Finance Report
Endowment trustees voted to match Pillar and Pathways donations up to $50,000, on a pay-as-we-go basis. The finance team is currently working on the Pillars and Pathways campaign, processing VBS registration, reviewing and cleaning membership and giving records in ACS realm, converting accounting data from Church Windows to ACS realm, training new admin assistant, and meeting with incoming financial elder.
General fund balance is $23,742.12. Income versus expense for the general fund only, is -$53,329.52. Income versus expense for all funds is $167,707.52. Note: All funds includes the $225,000 land sale.
Percent of pledges given versus pledged for the month of March was 53%, and 89% year to date.
Worship and Music
Amy Lewis reported that the team is currently working on summer service details. These services will be held indoors since we no longer have a sound staff to help set up a sound system outside. Discussed ways to shorten the summer service to around 45 minutes.
Looking ahead, there are continued discussions around a second service in the fall. We may also expand to three Christmas Eve services, because the second Christmas service was too full and was a safety risk.
Building and Grounds
RJ Binau express thanks to all of those who helped with the recent spring cleanup. We had about a dozen volunteers. We are currently working on beginning the outside maintenance items that were recently approved by session. The power washing was completed the first week of May. Next step is paving work to complete the lower and education wing portions of the parking lot. That should be completed by the end of May. After the pavement has set, the existing parking lot will be sealed and drainage work will be completed on the lower southeast corner of the parking lot. Looking into replacing some outdoor parking lot lights. The electric stove in the Fellowship Hall kitchen is not working and we are looking for a donation to replace it.
Children’s Ministry
Peter Bergman reported that the team is continuing to work on organization and preparation for VBS. The registration site is up and running, announcements are happening every Sunday until VBS starts, and an ad was taken out in the Waunakee Tribune. The decorating team will begin decorating the sanctuary the weekend of June 14, which is one weekend earlier than usual.
Session approved having the Lewises’ dog, Coda, attend VBS for the closing on the final night. Coda looks just like one of the VBS characters and we think the kids would love to see him. He’s a fully certified therapy dog and the Lewises’ have insurance for him covering all potential liability.
May 18 was the last Sunday school for the season, with a celebration for the kids.
We have only received two resumes in several months for the children’s ministry director. Please keep this effort in your prayers.
Personnel
Amy Chavez reported that her team recently welcomed and on-boarded Susan Landphier, our new administrative assistant. Susan’s start date was May 5.
The CFM director and student ministry director positions have been posted on multiple job sites. We have received a handful of resumes for each role. Due to our success in working with Celerity Staffing to fill the administrative assistant role, we have contracted with Celerity to assist in our search for our open ministry roles.
Sam Robinson has indicated his intention to retire from the worship coordinator role as of May 2026. He will continue the Joyful Noise director position. A committee will be initiated to study music needs and best staffing model for the future.
Stewardship
Barb Cash reported that they are continuing to work on the Pillars and Pathways campaign, including using additional communication methods to keep this in front of the congregation. We are three weeks into the campaign. Also working on communication to pledgers to close out the parking lot campaign.
Student Ministry
Emily Bauer reported that they received very positive feedback after the confirmation service. She will be putting a confirmation guide together for the next SM director.
27 students and leaders are officially booked for the Guatemala trip. Participants will be commissioned at the June 8 service and will share their testimonials at the June 22 service.
Looking ahead, we’re meeting with the Wednesday team and other student ministry leaders to plan for next year. We’re also looking into getting a new app/texting platform to communicate with students and parents, after having some issues with the current app.
We have received a few apps for the SM director position and may be following up with a couple of them. More updates will be reported from the June session meeting.
Adult Nurture and Spiritual Growth
Jim Fitzgerald reported that there will be two men’s group activities in June and August.
Both adult Sunday school groups will be concluding their spring series on May 18. These groups will take a break over summer and will resume in September. The men’s small group is concluding their six-week video series on May 14. The Psalms Tuesday morning series began on April 29 and will include conclude on June 3.
The team is beginning to discuss several events they’d like to bring for late 2025 or early 2026.
Nominating Committee
Emily Bauer provided an update on the Nominating Committee’s candidate invitation process through May 20. Most open positions have confirmed candidates. Acknowledged Jim Fitzgerald’s phenomenal leadership work with this committee. The candidates will be elected in the June 8 congregational meeting. Their bios will be in the Connector.
Fellowship
Krista Wallace reported that Mother’s Day cakes were served after the service on May 11. Also, the water filter was changed on the coffee dispenser. They’re currently working on scheduling coffee hosts throughout the summer months. Specialty donuts will be served after service on June 15 for Father’s Day. They are labeling drawers in the downstairs kitchen. Looking ahead to Fall Kick-Off, decided on September 7 as the date. Also looking at other possible fellowship events through the end of the year.
This Week’s Birthdays: June 8-14
This Week’s Anniversaries: June 8-14
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 8 – Jamison Wendlandt, piano and vocal
June 15- Brooksy Beilke-Skoug, piano and 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 and Ying Wang, piano
July 20 – Ivory and Brass, (Ruth and Paul Heinecke), piano and 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 and 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, Jesus Messiah, by Chris Tomlin, is a powerful declaration of Christ’s redemptive work, emphasizing His sacrifice and triumph over sin. Tomlin shared that the song’s initial melody and lyric came from his guitarist, Daniel Carson, and that he was looking to incorporate the name Messiah into a song because “Messiah is such a strong name for Jesus”. The lyrics amplify this truth, proclaiming Jesus as the Name above all names, the Blessed Redeemer, and the Rescue for sinners. Tomlin explained that every lyric in the song was crafted to reinforce the idea that Jesus is the Savior of the world. As we sing these words, we are reminded that salvation is found in Him alone. May this song be more than a melody—it is a proclamation of faith, calling us to live in the confidence of Christ’s redeeming love.
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!
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.
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.
