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Good Friday
This is one of the hardest days we face in our Christian tradition. For this Good Friday, we face the fact that Jesus of Nazareth whom we name as Messiah, died. There is no getting around this fact. Jesus died. His death was not pretty. It was not meant to be pretty. For it was done by Rome.
If we have learned anything about Rome, we know that Rome was not very tolerant of any person or movement that went against its agenda. People were assassinated, villages burned to the ground, populations wiped off the face of the earth, male children under the age of two put to the sword. Remember that horror?
Make no mistake about it, the way Jesus died, crucified, was awful, deliberate. Although Rome did not invent this form of death, Rome reserved it for special occasions– for those who subverted and disrupted Roman law and order. It was meant to instill fear and terror in those who might stray from Pax Romana. Thus, crucifixions were very, very public. The ones crucified were hung up as a public warning. “This one went too far.” “This could happen to you.”
Jesus is not someone who had been caught stealing or had murdered someone, Jesus’ offense is that he lived a life that was a threat to the politicians and the religious establishment. This poor nomadic, traveling teacher from Galilee who gathered twelve disciples around him– no armor, no weapons, no war horses.
This one who professes love for enemies, turning the cheek when struck, going the extra mile, forgiving, giving the shirt off our back as well as our coat, giving to those who beg, praying, giving alms and, fasting in secret, not worrying about what clothes we wear or what food we eat, who says “do not judge”, “ask, search, knock”, be fruit inspectors not judgers.
This is the One whom the religiously connected and the politically powerful deemed to be such a threat that he publicly dies in humiliation. “Do NOT do what this man did. He broke our rules”.
In other words, the blind are meant to stay blind; the deaf are to remain deaf; the lame, the lepers, the stooped, the chronically bleeding, the sick, the beaten up, are to be avoided and pitied, but not helped, not restored to full health just so that they can die again. And speaking of the dead, they are certainly to remain dead.
Jesus died because he defied societal assumptions.
Jesus died because he upset religious traditions..
Jesus died because he lived unencumbered by societal and religious expectations.
Jesus died because he ate in freedom as the song clearly states– sharing meals with crowds, with the wealthy, with the outcasts, with the likes of us, “sinners”.
Most of us here at FPC know all too well the emptiness that death causes in our lives.
Yes, we go on living even when our loved ones have died. Yes, the women who witnessed Jesus’ crucifixion and death went on living, but they and the disciples were living imprisoned behind the closed doors of grief and fear. Grieving the unexpected cruel death of the one whom they loved. Scared that they would be next. The next ones arrested, tried, mocked, tortured and tormented.
During the first week of his Spiritual Exercises, St. Ignatius suggests a meditation for the one who is beginning this 30-day experience– 30 days of hanging out with Jesus, 30 days of discovering what next direction God has in mind for our life.
Ignatius suggests first that we desire to get in touch with our sin– that which is dragging us down, holding us back, separating us from our true self. In other words, Ignatius asks us to take time to get honest, to see ourselves and our lives more clearly. Who are we? What is holding us back? What is holding us hostage?
• Sometimes it is our disappointment with how life has turned out for us. The “What might have-beens” are holding us back.
• Sometimes it is our need to justify the resentment and anger we hold onto because we have been wronged, degraded, offended to our core by another.
• Sometimes it is our sorrow for the losses of loved ones;
• Sometimes it is the self-pity we are caught up in; sometimes it is simply the “Why me?” “Why does this always happen to me?”
Then after several prayer periods, Ignatius suggests that we go to Jesus and tell him what we have discovered. We are to go to Jesus and name what is holding us back.
Except that Ignatius does not send us to laughing Jesus, or Shepherd Jesus, or Jesus by the lakeside, hunger-filling Jesus, but to Jesus hanging on the cross. Jesus hanging on the Old Rugged Cross. This is where we are to talk with Jesus about what is holding us back. About what is holding us hostage.
I wonder what each of us might say to the Crucified One?
Hanging there on the cross.
I wonder what Jesus might say to us?
I wonder how Jesus’ face might look?
Might we take the time today or tomorrow to talk to Jesus on the cross about what is holding each of us hostage?
You see the mystery of this moment is that Jesus understands our pain, our grief, our betrayals, our feelings of being abandoned, our helplessness, our feelings of being inadequate and isolated, our rage, our sorrow.
Might we take the time to be honest with Jesus before the dawn of Easter morning? Take time to talk to Jesus on the cross.
Wait for Jesus’ response to us. Listen for what Jesus will say back to each of us.
It takes courage to speak to Jesus like this.
However, we know that we have to pass through our Good Friday moments in order to appreciate the wonder of Easter morning.
We can do hard things because we follow the One who showed us how and journeys with us now. Jesus is waiting.
I wonder what we will say to him today?
I wonder what Jesus may say back to us?
Peace,
Pastor Glen
Video Devotional: Abraham’s Willingness to Sacrifice Isaac
Pastor Jeff discussed Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac in a recent Bethel Bible Series Online class. This passage is often first seen as troublesome. Why does a loving God ask Abraham to sacrifice his only son, the son of his old age? How will God’s promise to make Abraham the father to great nations be fulfilled? Find out in this video devotional.
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 | Mar. 31 – Apr. 20, 2024
THIS SUNDAY, March 31 at 8AM & 10AM – Easter Sunday Worship Services
Celebrate Easter Sunday with us this weekend! Join us one of our two special services on Easter morning: 8am or 10am. At 8am, delight in the vocal talents of Diane Robinson. For the 10am service, immerse yourself in the uplifting melodies of the Joyful Noise and the harmonious sounds of the FPC Choir. We look forward to sharing this joyous occasion with you!
Monday, April 1 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.
Mondays, through April 29 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!
Email Lynda if you’d like to join Light Team at blbennin@tds.net
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!
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!
Sunday, April 7 at 10AM – Congregational Meeting
The Session has called a congregational meeting upon the request of the PNC for Sunday, April 7 immediately following worship to elect a pastor and approve terms of call. The candidate for pastor will preach that day.
Monday, April 8 at 6:30PM and Saturday, April 13 at 10AM –
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.
Wednesday, April 10 at 11:30AM – New Horizons Potluck and Presentation by Todd Schmidt
Todd Schmidt, Waunakee Village Administrator, will discuss the development plans for Waunakee. Potluck will follow in Fellowship Hall.
If you’d like more information please call Steve Doty at 608-849-4058.
Sunday, April 14 during the 10am service – Jesus Storybook Bible Presentations (4K-Kindergarten)
If you have a child in 4k or Kindergarten who have not received a “Jesus Storybook Bible,” please contact Christa Schmeelk cschmeelk@myfpc.org. Bible Presentations will take place during the 10am service on April 14. Please save the date or let Christa know if you can’t attend – we still want your child to have a Bible!
Sunday, April 14 from 11:30AM-1:30PM – What’s Cookin at FPC?
Tryg Knutson will be teaching us how to make Lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread, on Sunday, April 14 in the Fellowship Hall: 11:30-1:30pm We will have a simple lunch together after service and then learn how to make Lefse together. This will be hands on– and you will get flour on yourself, so dress accordingly or feel free to bring an apron! Please RSVP to Christa at cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Friday, April 19 at 6PM – Ladies Dining Out at Amber Indian Restaurant
Women! You are invited to come to dinner at Amber Indian Restaurant on 6pm on Friday, April 19 in Middleton. Please RSVP to Christa Schmeelk so we have enough seats. If you are unsure about Indian food, Christa would LOVE to help you find something you would like ahead of time: cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Save the Date | More Info to come
Sunday, April 21 at 3PM – Theology on Tap at Octopi Brewing
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!
Contact Christa or Ezrah for more info: cschmeelk@myfpc.org
Sunday, April 21 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!
Future MOMCo Meeting Dates: May 19
Sunday, May 5 during the 10am service – FPC’s annual First Public Communion
FPC’s annual First Public Communion will be on Sunday, May 5 during the 10am service. For more information or to sign up, just email Christa Schmeelk! For those interested, we will have a First Communion Parent and Child Meeting following the worship service on Sunday, April 21 at 11am in the Chapel.
SAVE THE DATE! Sunday, May 5 – All About FPC
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, May 5. 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 Pastor Glen or Elder Wes Ray or email Christa: cschmeelk@myfpc.org.
Saturday, May 18 at 9AM – FPC Spring Cleaning
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 FPC Spring Cleaning 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!
Monday, May 27 – FPC Church Office will be closed
The FPC Church office will be closed for Memorial Day.
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!
Opportunities to Serve
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
Help finding a new charity or organization
For many years, some members of FPC and I have been gathering discarded dolls, cleaning them and dressing them in new clothes. These dolls have been sent to a daycare center for the children of migrant workers. After 44 years, Sister Jean at the daycare center is retiring. I am therefore looking for a similar charitable organization that would like to distribute these dolls at Christmas. It is my hope that some members of the congregation will know of such an organization. The location of the charity does not matter since I am willing to send them anywhere in the U.S.
Thanks!
Joyce Millett
robertmillett@hotmail.com
No FPC Nursery on March 31
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.
No Kingdom Kids on March 31, but there will be a Children’s Moment during service!
Kingdom Kids
3-year-olds through Kindergarten will be dismissed after the Children’s message during Sunday service.
No Sunday School on March 31
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!
No Network 56 on Sunday, March 31
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.
No Student Ministry on Sunday, March 31
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
March 31 – 8AM – Diane Robinson, vocalist
March 31 – 10AM – FPC Choir and Joyful Noise
April 7 – FPC Choir and Jamison Wendlandt, vocalist
April 14 – 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.
