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Keeping Christ at the Center
Several years ago, I attended a seminar in Dallas on Christian formation led by Brian Wallace of Fuller Seminary. He shared with us the three essential ingredients for Christian community, based on the main scripture passage from his presentation, Mark 3:13-15: “[Jesus] went up the mountain and called to him those whom he wanted, and they came to him. 14 And he appointed twelve, whom he also named apostles, to be with him, and to be sent out to proclaim the message, 15 and to have authority to cast out demons.” These verses are part of Mark’s account of Jesus calling the 12 disciples, which takes place early in Jesus’ earthly ministry, as described by Mark.
First, disciples are those who have been called to Jesus: [he] called to him those whom he wanted (verse 13). Second, disciples live out their calling to Jesus in community: Jesus appointed not just one but twelve disciples (verse 14). Third, disciples who are called to Jesus and community are sent by God into the world to proclaim the gospel and confront evil powers (verses 14 & 15). If we were to diagram Mark 3:13-15 as a series of circles, Jesus would be the first, community the second, and purpose or mission the third. The key truth to remember is that Jesus must be at the very center of everything. He is the main focus of our life as a community of disciples. He is also the focus of our mission and ministry in the world. As Brian Wallace told us in his seminar, “before we are called to a purpose, we are first called to a person.”
In my observation, many Christians tend to prioritize one circle or group over others. Some desire a personal relationship with Christ without feeling the need to live in community or engage with the world by sharing the message and confronting evil. Others love community and mission but do not nurture their relationship with Christ Himself. I believe Mark teaches us that we cannot truly have one without the others. As a church, we must never forget that Christ, community, and mission are interconnected.
Grace and Peace,
Will
Special Announcements:
Last Sunday – New Worship Services start next Sunday, Sept. 14!
- 9:00 AM – Chapel Service (similar in style to our Lenten services)
- 10:15 AM – Sanctuary Service
If attendance at the 9:00 AM service grows, we’ll move it to the sanctuary to accommodate everyone.
Sunday School Teachers – FPC still needs your help!
The Children’s Ministry team is looking for volunteers to be Sunday School teachers. The only qualifications are faith in God and a love for children. No need to be a Bible scholar as the curriculum we use at FPC provides a complete lesson plan each week. By using a teacher-team approach the time commitment is minimal and the rewards are outstanding! So please prayerfully consider joining our team and help to bring the word of the Lord to the youngest in our congregation.
For more information, please email Elder Peter Bergmann at peter.bergmann@myfpc.org or call/text Peter at (608) 658-0901.
New Women’s Group – Better Together!
Are you navigating the joys and challenges of motherhood in all its forms? Whether you’re expecting your first child, raising little ones, or preparing to launch a teen into the world, you are warmly invited to join a new community of women in the Waunakee area.
Together, we’ll create a supportive, non-judgmental space where compassion and connection are at the center. This group is more than a “Moms Group”—because we are more than just moms. We’ll explore the many layers of our lives with wholehearted acceptance, sharing stories, questions, and wisdom as we grow together.
Facilitated by Kristin Hall Sliwicki, FPC member and recently retired Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, alongside co-leader Becca Gottwald, FPC member, Sunday School teacher, and busy mom of a preschooler, this group is designed to meet you where you are.
We’ll begin meeting Wednesday evenings from 7:00–8:30 PM at FPC, with flexibility as we shape the group together. Our first few gatherings will focus on building relationships and identifying the topics that matter most to you.
Come as you are—with your heart, your hopes, and your honest self. We can’t wait to welcome you.
Questions? Contact Kris Hall Sliwicki at 847.567.1448
Adult Small Groups at FPC – New Opportunities
FPC Waunakee is offering a rich variety of Adult Small Groups designed to foster meaningful connection and spiritual growth. Whether you’re looking for a Men’s or Women’s group, a Co-ed Connection group, or a Bible or Christian study group, there’s a place for you.
Join us for engaging fellowship and thoughtful discussion as we deepen our understanding of Scripture, Theology, Church History, and Christian Living. Both new and returning groups will be available – please click here to view the complete list.
Come grow in faith and community—there’s a group for everyone.
“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 | Weekly Connector: Sept. 7 – 13
Sunday, September 7 – Fall Kickoff
The FPC’s annual Fall Kickoff is this Sunday, September 7 from 10:30AM – 12:30PM.
There is still time to RSVP and Volunteer. You can sign up online here.
Please join us in faith, food and friendship.
Sunday, September 7 – Sunday School Open House
In addition to the Fall Kickoff, Sunday School will have an open house from 10 – 10:30AM for interested families.
Sunday School begins Sunday, September 14 at 9AM. If you are interested in either signing up a child(ren) please fill out this form.
Mondays, Beginning September 8 – The Light Team
Calling All Women – The Light Team Returns!
Join the FPC Light Team as we kick off a new six-week Bible study series by Susie Larson, beginning Monday, September 8. Together, we’ll explore how to live each day in a way that honors God and strengthens your spirit.
🗓 Mondays, September 8 – October 20
🕐 1:00 – 2:30 PM
📍 The Gathering Place at FPC
Please note: No meeting on October 6.
The Light Team is a welcoming group of Christian women who gather for fellowship, Bible study, prayer, and special projects—with plenty of laughter and no homework required!
Have questions? Contact Lynda Bennin at blbennin@tds.net.
Monday, Sept. 8 & Saturday, Sept. 13 Caring for Caregivers
Caring for others can be rewarding—but also overwhelming and isolating. That’s why FPC’s Care for Caregivers group exists: to offer emotional, mental, and spiritual encouragement for those supporting aging parents, loved ones with chronic illness, or individuals with disabilities.
Whether you’re a current or former caregiver, you’re invited to join us for drop-in style meetings—no pressure to share, just come as you are.
Second Monday at 6:30 PM
Second Saturday at 10:00 AM
Room 204 at FPC
If these times don’t work for you, let us know—we’d love to connect.
Questions? Contact Marcia Chase at marchase@icloud.com or call/text (334) 444-6610 (leave a message during work hours). View note below about resource fair.
Remember: You’re not alone, and it’s okay to take time to care for yourself too!
Tuesday, September 9 – Coffeehouse Bible Study Begins
NEW! Bible study returns. All are welcome to join this 7-week study with Pastor Will Wilson leading an in-depth discussion on Elijah & 1 Kings.
📌: Tuesday mornings at 7:30 AM
🗓: Runs from September 9 – October 22
🕛: 7:30 AM
🏢: M-N-M’s in Waunakee
Contact Jim Fitzgerald @ jnj57012@gmail.com with questions.
This study will focus on the Biblical text of Elijah & 1 Kings along with additional reading from study resource hardcover book, 1 and 2 Kings (The NIV Application Commentary) by August H. Konkel.
Save the Date | More Info to Come
Wednesday, September 17 – Youth Group
Mark your calendars for the return of FPC Youth Group. More information to come.
Thursday, September 25 – The Dining Divas
📌Date: Thursday, September 25
🕛Time: 5:00 PM
🏢 Where: RP Adler’s Pub & Grill – 8202 Watts Rd, Madison
⏰ RSVP needed by 9/19 to Alka at alkadaisy@gmail.com
Thursday, September 25 – Caregiver Resource Fair
More than 20 agencies will exhibit at the event. They will provide those attending with information about services they offer to enable people to stay in their homes or be cared for at their facilities, along with information on other helpful resources. No reservations are required.
📌Date: Thursday, September 25
🕛Time: 11 AM – 2 PM
🏢 Where: Village Center (lower level), 333 Madison St. Waunakee
For further information, call the Waunakee Senior Center, 608-849-8385.
Opportunities to Serve
Sound Desk Assistant
Director of Student Ministry
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
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:
- Toilet Paper
- Cereal
- Knorr Pasta or Rice Sides
- Chicken Broth
- Bagged Red Beans
- Snack Pack Pudding
- Ketchup
- 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
This Week’s Birthdays: September 7 – 13
This Week’s Anniversaries: September 7 – 13
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 and is staffed by church staff and volunteers who love children and want to share God’s love with them.
Music in Worship
September 7 – Choir & Ying Wang, piano
September 14 – TBD
September 21 – Choir & Ying Wang, pianist
September 28 – TBD
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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To streamline event announcements in The Connector or during worship, please use our new online form.
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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.
