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More Than Music: A Season of Thanksgiving and Celebration
There is something special about a congregation singing together. Whether familiar with every word or hearing a song for the first time, our individual voices become a shared expression of faith, hope, and praise.
As Thanksgiving approaches and we look toward Advent and Christmas, I’ve been reflecting on how worship and music connect us with our faith, one another, and the experiences that have shaped our lives. In planning worship, I hope to honor the hymns that have sustained us for generations while embracing contemporary music that offers fresh expressions of timeless truths. Through congregational singing, our Choir, Joyful Noise, and instrumental music, each offers a different opportunity to engage with God’s Word and grow together in faith.
A Season of Thanksgiving
In this season of Thanksgiving, I am especially grateful for the singers, instrumentalists, volunteers, and others who generously share their time and talents to make worship at FPC possible. It is a privilege to serve alongside them.
I hope you’ll join us for the Waunakee Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, November 22, at 6:00 PM, at the Waunakee High School Performing Arts Center. Pastor Will Wilson will preach, and area church choirs will join together in music as we celebrate our shared faith and blessings.
Looking Toward Christmas
During Advent, our music will reflect the hope, peace, joy, and anticipation of the season. This Christmas Eve, we invite you to experience One Christmas Story. Two Musical Experiences.
4:00 PM | Contemporary Christmas Eve
Cherished Christmas favorites reimagined with contemporary arrangements and worship music.
7:00 PM | Traditional Christmas Eve
Classic carols, choral music, and instrumental accompaniment featuring our Choir and Joyful Noise.
Though musically distinct, both services celebrate the joyful message of Christ’s birth.
On Sunday, December 27, we’ll celebrate with a Christmas Hymn Sing! Send your favorite Christmas carols or other hymn requests to jwendlandt@myfpc.org. While we may not sing them all that Sunday, your suggestions will help shape our music throughout the coming year.
As we enter this season of Thanksgiving and celebration, I hope our worship continues to bring us together, deepen our faith, and remind us of the joy and hope we share in Christ.
Jamison Wendlandt
Director of Worship & Music
Special Announcements
Good News for Our Future
2027 Stewardship Season is underway. Thank you to everyone who’s returned their pledge cards. If you have not, please complete a pledge card showing what time, talent and treasure they will invest in God’s plan for FPC and their own spiritual development in the coming year.
Click here to access the virtual Pledge Card
Click here to access the virtual Time & Talent Survey
If you prefer, paper copies of the stewardship packet are available in the church narthex through Christmas. Please return them to the church office.
If you have any questions about Sessions’s Ministry and Mission plans for 2027, or the stewardship process, please see Alan Roberts, Stewardship Elder in the narthex (next to the packets) after each service, or contact at 715.570.6980 or stewardshipelder@myfpc.org.
Confirmation Informational Meeting
Join us on Sunday, Nov. 22 in the Youth Space from 10:45 – 11 AM for information regarding Confirmation next spring. If you can’t make it or have further questions, please contact Joe Madsen at Joe.Madsen@myfpc.org.
Safety and Emergency Planning Update
Amy Lewis, Worship and Music Elder, Joel Lewis and Angela Himegarner have been meeting to review and strengthen the church’s emergency response procedures.
Together, we are developing plans and protocols for medical emergencies, fire, severe weather, and security-related threats. Once these procedures have been finalized, we will provide an update to the congregation, so everyone is aware of the steps being taken to help keep our church community safe.
Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday takes place on December 1, 2026, asking people worldwide, “What can I give?” and “How can I help?” Beyond fundraising, this year-round movement celebrates generosity through money, time, voice, goods, and skills.
Started in New York City in 2012 to counter holiday consumerism, Giving Tuesday now reaches more than 110 countries. Thousands of community campaigns participate in their own ways. In the words of Giving Tuesday leaders, “every act of generosity becomes a building block for real community change.”
In 2025, 38.1 million U.S. participants raised $4 billion on Giving Tuesday, bringing the total since 2012 above $22.5 billion. Giving extended beyond money:
- 11.1 million people volunteered
- 13.5 million donated goods
- 20.9 million spoke up for causes
- U.S. counties with community campaigns raise 90% more dollars and have 85% more donors per capita
Giving Tuesday will unite members and neighbors of First Presbyterian Church of Waunakee in putting faith into action through their “Good News for our Future” stewardship initiative inviting every household to consider how to give time, talent, and treasure. Giving Tuesday, December 1, 2026, offers an opportunity to support Christ’s ministry now and for generations to come. More than a one-day appeal, it encourages us to reflect on God’s gifts and share them meaningfully.
During November, we will explore giving, reflect on valued ministries, and choose a personal next step before celebrating generosity November 29–December 1. You could:
- Make a special Giving Tuesday gift
- Complete your 2026 pledge
- Return your 2027 pledge card
- Contribute time and skills during Generosity Week, December 1–5
Current gifts may fund a Session-approved 2026 Wish List or budget priority. Together, we can nurture children and youth in faith, care for our congregation and church home, serve neighbors, and sustain future ministry through the Endowment.
Choose ways to give that align with your community, interests, and faith, then sustain those efforts year-round. Join Giving Tuesday on December 1. Start building connections, telling stories, and encouraging others to participate today.
Alan Roberts
Calling all Quilters & Sewists
Please join us in helping to make prayer quilts (or other charitable items) – any time between 9 AM – 4 PM on Monday – Thursday (Nov 16 – 19) in Fellowship Hall.
Come and go as you like! You’re welcome to leave your supplies as the room will be locked after each day!
Any questions – please contact Anne Frihart at annefrihart@gmail.com
Christmas Giving Trees Return November 22
Beginning November 22, our Christmas Giving Trees will provide an opportunity to share Christ’s love and Christmas joy with individuals and families in our community who are in need.
Those who wish to participate may select a gift tag from one of the trees and purchase the requested item.
More details will be available in the coming weeks.
Any questions – please contact Mission Elder at MissionElder@myfpc.org.
Events & Submission Form
As a reminder, FPC has a new form for submitting events and special announcements. Please reference this form when needing information communicated.
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.
Upcoming Events
Sunday, November 15 – Adult Sunday School (Life Compass)
Adult Sunday School Class (Life Compass) is focused around the “Gospel in Life” by Timothy Keller.
📅Date: Sundays
🕒Time: 10:45 AM – 11:30 AM
📌Location: Meets in Room 204
Contact Jim Fitzgerald at NurtureAndGrowthElder@myfpc.org with any questions.
Sunday, November 15 – Pack the Love Day
Please join us for a local service project!
The mission committee invites all to join in packing food bags to donate to two local non-profit organizations – The River Food Pantry, and Friends of the State Street Family.
This is a family friendly event and a great opportunity for children to get involved!
📅Date: Sunday, November 15
🕒Time: Following Service
📌Location: Fellowship Hall
✏️Sign Up here!
Any questions please contact Allison Tardif at allisonmtardif@gmail.com
Sunday, November 15 – Youth Group
Students in 7th – 12th grade are welcome to join Youth Group for fellowship and faith exploration.
📅Date: Sundays
🕒Time: 6:30 – 7:45 PM
📌Location: Meet upstairs in the FPC Youth Space
Any questions, please contact Joe Madsen at Joe.Madsen@myfpc.org
Monday, November 16 – The Light Team
All Christian women are welcome to join in fellowship and faith discussion.
📅Date: Mondays
🕒Time: 1 PM
📌Location: The Gathering Space at FPC
Any questions, please contact Lynda Bennin at blbennin@tds.net
Tuesday, November 17 – M-N-M’s Coffee House Bible Study
Please join us at M-N-M’s Coffee House on Tuesday mornings @ 7:30 A.M with Pastor Will.
📅Date: Tuesdays
🕒Time: 7:30 AM
📌Location: M-N-M’s Coffee House
If interested in participating, please contact
Jim Fitzgerald with any questions or you can sign up in the Narthex area of church. The last session will conclude on November 24.
Contact Jim Fitzgerald at NurtureAndGrowthElder@myfpc.org with any questions.
Wednesday, November 18 – Women’s Community Bible Study
All women are welcome to join the Waunakee Community Bible Study.
This is held weekly on Wednesdays at 8:30 AM and follows the Waunakee School District Schedule.
📅Date: Wednesdays
🕒Time: 8:30 AM
📌Location: Meets in Room 204
Email any questions to bstell122515@tds.net
Wednesday, November 18 – FPC Men’s Bible Study
All men are welcome to join us for a 5-week session on “When Your Way Isn’t Working” by Pastor/Author Kyle Idleman.
Our study will focus on the scripture found in John 15:5, where Jesus tells his followers; “I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me, and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can’t do anything”.
Instead of going it alone in life we are to stay connected to Him!
📅Date: Wednesdays
🕒Time: 7 PM
📌Location: Meets in the FPC conference room
Contact Jim Fitzgerald at NurtureAndGrowthElder@myfpc.org with any questions.
Thursday, November 19 – Heavenly Stretch Yoga
Join us Thursday evenings for a relaxing yoga flow, led by FPC Elder Lolly Lawrence.
📅Date: Thursdays
🕒Time: 5:15 – 6 PM
📌Location: Meets in the FPC Youth Space Upstairs
Questions? Contact Lolly Lawrence ClerkOfSession@myfpc.org
Thursday, November 19 – Alcoholics Anonymous
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meets weekly on Thursdays at 7 PM in Fellowship Hall.
Sunday, November 22 – Waunakee Thanksgiving Service
Join us for a special community worship service as Pastor Will Wilson shares God’s message of hope and thanksgiving.
📅Date: Sunday, November 22
🕒Time: 6 PM
📌Location: Waunakee High School Performing Arts Center
Following worship, everyone is invited to stay for Fellowship. Please bring an uncut pie to share after service.
Presented by WEB (Waunakee Ecumenical Board) and hosted by Crossroads United Methodist Church.
Sunday, November 29 – Advent Bible Study Begins
Pastor Will Wilson will lead an Advent study on John the Baptist. This will be a 4-week study and will conclude on Sunday, December 20th.
The book Prepare The Way For The Lord- Advent and the message of John the Baptist by Pastor Adam Hamilton will be the study reference. The book is available on Amazon for $10 each.
📅Date: Sundays through December 20
🕒Time: Around 10:45 AM, lasts roughly 45 min
📌Location: FPC Chapel
If you need help ordering the book, please contact Jim Fitzgerald at NurtureAndGrowthElder@myfpc.org. Sign up in the Narthex.
Opportunities to Serve
Sound Desk Assistant
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.
Help Create a Safe & Welcoming Space on Sundays
FPC is looking for caring, observant volunteers to serve as House Managers during Sunday services. This role helps ensure a safe and welcoming environment by monitoring the building and surroundings during worship.
If you’re calm under pressure, attentive to detail, and enjoy supporting others behind the scenes, we’d love to have you on the team!
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.
Volunteer Opportunity – Waunakee Food Pantry – Updated 11/4
Serve & Support Our Community – Volunteer or Donate!
We’re looking for volunteers to help distribute food from 4 – 6 PM the last Wednesday of each month to help serve our community. It’s a great way to connect with others and make a meaningful impact.
👉 Interested? Fill out the volunteer form on the FPC website or contact Sheryll Gehrmann for details
Unable to volunteer? Here’s the list of items most-needed this month:
- Pasta Sauce
- Bagged White Rice
- Instant Mashed Potatoes
- Strawberry Jelly
- Vegetable Oil
- Canned Corn
- Kleenex
- Toilet Paper
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
This Week’s Birthdays: November 15 – 21
This Week’s Anniversaries: November 15 – 21
Bethel Bible Series
FPC Nursery for Ages 4 and under
Nursery Age 4 and Under – Room 200
The Nursery is available on Sundays from 9 – 11:00 AM throughout the month and is staffed by church staff and volunteers who love children and want to share God’s love with them.
Attention Young Musicians
If you sing, play piano, organ, a string, woodwind or brass instrument and would like to sing or play a song during a church service, we’d LOVE to hear you!
You could play a prelude or a piece during a Sunday morning service.
Please contact Jamison Wendlandt at JWendlandt@myfpc.org
When life is hard, you need more than a cute poster.
When you or someone you know is having a tough time in life, trying to handle things like:
• Grief or loss
• Chronic or terminal illness
• Job loss or financial strain
• Loneliness or major life transitions (empty nest, relocation, etc.)
• Divorce or separation
FPC has a group of highly trained caregivers who can help out during these and other difficult situations. Stephen Ministers are members of our congregation who have been carefully selected and trained to support people going through a hard time. A Stephen Minister meets with a person regularly, one to one, just to listen and care and walk with that person throughout that difficult time.
Men are paired with men, and women with women. Stephen Ministers understand reflective listening, healthy boundaries, and strongly support the importance of absolute confidentiality. Since its beginning at FPC in 2016, our Stephen Ministers have helped dozens of people both from FPC and the wider community journey through tough times.
For more information about FPC’s Stephen Ministry, talk to Pastor Will, any Deacon, or one of FPC’s Stephen Leaders, Kristy Drewry or Jamie Roberts, at anytime.
Want to receive an email notification when the weekly Connector is updated? Sign up here!
Connect with the Connector!
Submit Your Announcements
To streamline event announcements in The Connector or during worship, please use our new online form.
Questions or feedback? Email: communications@myfpc.org
The Connector is printed weekly and available at the Connection Corner. To receive a mailed copy, contact the church office to join the homebound list.
Deadlines: Submissions due by noon Wednesday. The Connector is published Fridays at 4 PM.
