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Good News and Great News!
Many of us are wondering, and some are asking…
“When in the world are we ever going to finish our parking lot?”
Many of us remember pledging to a three-year campaign to fund the creation of our parking lot, and now I’m here to tell you that congregational contributions towards the existing parking lot and the associated loan expire on July 31 of this year — but wait — that’s not the end of the story!
(Bad news first? We haven’t completely paid off that loan yet. We still have a bit to go — about $164,000.)
But the good news is this:
Those of us who have been giving faithfully for the past three years have the easy opportunity to simply continue doing what we’ve been doing — in whatever way we’ve been doing it — just by checking a box on your pledge card.
Even better, contributing to the Lord’s work — by providing parking space to welcome more worshipers and caring for the place where we gather — is a Biblical act and a spiritual blessing. Some of us might even be inspired to give a little more during this next campaign!
And now, the Great News:
After 30 years of housing our congregation and facilitating the spreading of Christ’s love and care to the wider world, this building that we love now needs some special TLC.
In order to perform both periodic upkeep and complete the parking lot project, we are rolling it all together into a new three-year campaign called Pillars and Pathways.
The “Pillars” part will support needed maintenance and care for our building — the pillars of ministry that support our life together.
The “Pathways” part will restore our parking and grounds, creating welcoming spaces for all who come through our doors.
In addition, thanks to the wise stewardship of our Endowment Fund, we have a fantastic opportunity:
Because we sold some unused land, the Endowment now has the ability to match gifts dollar-for-dollar, up to $50,000!
(And if you’re wondering why the limit is $50,000, it’s because the Endowment’s charter preserves the principal for future growth.)
We are called to be faithful stewards of all God has given us — our time, our talents, and our treasures — and this facility is truly a treasure. The Endowment helps us be good stewards, but it’s your generous commitments that make these plans a reality.
Sponsor a Pillar!
If you feel called to a special act of stewardship, consider sponsoring a half of a pillar—just $9/week or $39/month over 36 months—or a full pillar for $18/week or $78/month over 36 months. Want to go even further? You can sponsor multiple pillars!
If we can sponsor 77 Pillars, we will reach our goal! Each sponsored pillar is a symbol of your support in holding up the ministry and mission of FPC — and a visible reminder of what we can accomplish together through Christ!
This Pillars and Pathways campaign will run from May 1 until Sunday, June 15. Commitments will begin July 1, 2025 and run for 36 months, ending on June 30, 2028.
So, friends, let us use our collective pledges to make a big dent, not in the fresh asphalt, but in the finances needed to get this job finished well and build stronger pillars and pathways for years to come!
In Christ’s Love,
Barb Cash
Stewardship Elder
“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 4-May 24, 2025
Sundays, Throughout May, 9AM or 10AM – Two Worship Services!
Double the worship, double the blessings! Starting next week, Sunday, May 5, join us at 9AM in the Chapel or 10AM in the Sanctuary. Two services, throughout the month of May!
Mondays, beginning May 5, at 1PM – Light Team viewing The Chosen, Season 2
Beginning Monday, May 5 at 1PM, the Light Team will begin 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.
No Meeting on Monday, May 26.
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.
Saturday, May 10, at 10AM and Monday, May 12, at 6:30PM– 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!
Sunday, May 11 – Mother’s Day
Join us in the lobby after worship for a special time of coffee and heartfelt fellowship as we honor the mothers and mother-figures who bless our lives. All are welcome!
Wednesday, May 14 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, May 18, during worship – 2025 Graduation Recognition
During worship on Sunday, May 18, we will be celebrating FPC’s graduates! If you or your student is graduating from high school or college, email info@myfpc.org by noon on Tuesday, May 13, to be included in the recognition.
Please send us:
- Your name
- Your parent’s names
- The school you are graduating from
- Your future plans
- Your senior pic!
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Monday-Thursday, May 19-22 from 9AM-4PM – Sewing Days
Bring your sewing machine and other supplies and work on prayer quilts for the church. Questions? Contact Anne Frihart.
Save the Date | More Info to come
Monday, May 26 – Church Office Closed for Memorial Day
The FPC office will be closed on Monday, May 26, for Memorial Day.
Friday, May 30 – Red Cross Blood Drive
Help save lives! The blood drive will be held in Fellowship Hall on Friday, May 30, from 11AM-5PM. Click the button below to sign up today!
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!
Opportunities to Serve
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
Happy Birthday Shirley!
On Monday, the Light Team had the joy of celebrating Shirley Woolley’s 92nd birthday with her and her daughter, Clare. It was a sweet time of fellowship, laughter, and gratitude for Shirley’s bright spirit.
Happy Birthday, Shirley!
Dining Divas Delight at Era Café
Last week on April 24, the Dining Divas enjoyed great food and even better company at Era Café! This fun and flavorful outing is just one of the many adventures this group shares together.
Want to join the next one? Contact Alka to get connected!
This Week’s Birthdays: May 4 – 10
This Week’s Anniversaries: May 4 – 10
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.
The Nursery will be OPEN on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11.
Music in Worship
May 4 – 9AM – Beth Wagner, guest pianist
May 4 – 10AM – FPC Choir & Ying Wang
May 11 – 9AM – Beth Wagner, guest pianist
May 11 – 10AM – Ying Wang, Joyful Noise Brass & Ross Cowling, guest organist
May 18 – 9AM – Beth Wagner, guest pianist
May 18 – 10AM – FPC Choir & Ying Wang
Praise Song of the Week
This week’s praise song, King of Kings, by Hillsong Worship is a powerful anthem that celebrates the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The song begins by recounting His humble birth, emphasizing His divine nature and the fulfillment of prophecy, and moves through His ministry, crucifixion, and ultimate victory over death. Brooke Ligertwood, one of the songwriters, shared, “We wanted to write a song that tells the story of the gospel from start to finish”. The lyrics are a testament to the transformative power of Jesus’ love and grace, inviting us to reflect on His journey and the hope it brings. Ligertwood also emphasized, “The song is a declaration of the majesty and glory of Jesus Christ”. As we meditate on this message, let us remember the unwavering love and mercy of our Savior, finding solace in the truth that Jesus reigns supreme, offering us peace and salvation. May this song inspire us to live out our faith boldly, sharing the good news of Christ’s victory with the world. Let us praise the King of Kings, who reigns forevermore.
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 has provided them with an understanding of reflective listening, boundaries, and the importance of absolute confidentiality.
Since it’s 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.
