CPC Life January/February 2019 by Christ Presbyterian Church

With Jesus, You’re More Than Enough.

very New Year’s resolution has the undercurrent of shame crying out, “I am not good enough. I should really be better!” This sense of shame is what Scott Sauls calls “a low-grade anxiety— that nags and needles at the soul. It is a fever without a temperature, a low-grade and ever-present condition that tells us we are less than, smaller than, and other than what we ought to be.” We all feel it, but we struggle to name it because the very core of our identity in our culture is based upon our successes and failures. This voice of shame is really the voice of the Serpent, going back to the Garden of Eden, calling you to question, “Am I enough?” HENRI NOUWEN TALKS ABOUT THE FIVE LIES OF IDENTITY: 1. I am what I have. 2. I am what I do. 3. I am what other people say or think of me. 4. I am nothing more than my worst moment. 5. I am nothing less than my best moment. When we live by these lies, we are enslaved to what others think about us—and even worse, enslaved to what we think about ourselves. At the core of our culture is an identity crisis. We spend so much energy trying to manage our identity, and it is exhausting. The fruit of this lifestyle is anxiety, despair, people pleasing, or narcissism. Do you see how this is lived out in your own life? Where does that voice in your head say, “You are not enough”? In January, we tend to double down with our resolve, trying to manage the gap between how we really are and what we think we should be. We try harder to be all we can be and find new ways to delude ourselves into thinking that we’re not really that bad. The good news of the gospel is that God does not say, “You are your successes and failures.” In fact, there is freedom

from the bondage of having to measure up. But first we must confess that we are not enough. Jesus continually raises the bar to those who think they are righteous by their own efforts. He says things like “being angry at your brother is the equivalent to being a murderer,” or “be perfect like my Father in heaven.” He said these things so we’d see all the ways we’re not enough. That’s why He came. Jesus loves us so much that He took all of our brokenness, all of our sin, all of our “not enoughness” upon Himself . . . and He died the death we deserved on the cross. He paid the penalty that we deserved. This is mercy. And there is more! He not only forgives us of our sin, but He offers to us His perfect record of obedience so that when God the Father sees us, He sees only the perfection of Christ. This is grace. As the Apostle Paul writes: “God made Jesus who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:21). This is why Paul says we are holy and blameless: because the perfection of Christ is credited as our own. God offers us these gifts of grace and mercy by faith, meaning that we trust in the work of Jesus on the cross instead of putting our faith in our self-improvement, self-effort, or selfrighteousness. In Christ, we have a new identity. We are not the mistakes we have made, we are not the resolutions we have failed to keep, we are not who our culture says we are. You see, in Christ we are beloved, accepted, secure, redeemed, whole, holy, and more than enough. So if you feel compelled to make some resolutions this New Year, stop listening to the false voices asking if you are enough, and trust who Jesus says you are: more than enough!

J A M E S M A D S E N serves as P A S T O R of D I S C I P L E S H I P

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Two ways to dig deeper into the Sermon on the Mount: • Challenge yourself to read Matthew 5-7 each week

• Receive a weekly reflection on your phone text “SOTM” to 555888

Why Jesus Raises the Bar

his winter we will jump into a new section of the Sermon on the Mount. After Jesus teaches the crowds the Beatitudes, which describe the kinds of people that God’s heart beats for and with, He then turns to “the Law.” Better known as the Torah, or the first five books of the Old Testament, the Law describes how God’s Old Testament people were not so you supposed to live in right relationship with their redeeming so that you God.

Jesus raises the bar can jump higher, but can see your need for Him and recognize the magnitude of the grace and love He bestows on us.

However, as often happens when adhering to a set of rules, people started to forget the heart of the Law and focused more on being good at following rules. And then there were some that just said “this is too hard,” and they simply gave up trying. So in one case you had people who were super legalistic about the Law, and then you had others who just felt tired and helpless. Jesus calls this out, and rather than affirming either the legalistic or the apathetic, He instead raises the bar on what it means to be in relationship with God. He raises the bar and exposes all the ways we have never and can never measure up to the Law, much less the heart behind the Law. And He shows us that it was never

about following laws, never about attaining some written standard of perfection, but about growing in our relationship of love with God and with others. What we see is that the really good rule followers get stuck following the letters of the law to the neglect of actual relationships, and those who have given up trying get lost in a fog of helplessness. Jesus doesn’t eliminate the rules—He doubles down on them. He said He didn’t come to diminish the rules, He came to raise the bar. God doesn’t simply expect you to follow rules, He desires your heart! In the next section of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus lays bare the heart of the Law with a series of “you’ve heard it said, but I say to you” sayings. It’s possible to follow all the rules and still miss the point, to still love self over God. Jesus invites us to be oriented properly toward Scripture so that Jesus can disciple us in the ways of grace and mercy. Jesus raises the bar not so you can jump higher, but so that you can see your need for Him and recognize the magnitude of the grace and love He bestows on us.

PETEY CROWDER serves as E XECUTIVE PASTOR

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SUMMER CA MPS

Spend the summer with us! Camp signups for kids and students open

Saturday, February 23 • 9:00AM We offer eight camps for ages 3 through 12th grade, including Mission St. Louis, a service trip for students in grades 9-12 and Vacation Bible School, a day camp for kids age 3 through 5th grade. Camp 6:8: June 11-13 • students entering grades 6-8 Hope Shores: June 15-21 • kids entering grades 3-5 Mission St. Louis: June 23-28 • students entering grades 9-12 Rockslide: June 24-28 • students entering grades 6-8

Quest: July 8-12 • students entering grade 9 VBS: July 15-18 • kids age 3-entering grade 5 Mini Lock-in Party: July 31 • kids entering grades 3-5 Summit: July 31-August 5 • students entering grades 10-12

DETAILS AND SIGNUPS:

cpconline.org/events

Find rest for your soul.

BECOME A MEMBER OF CPC! Friday, February 22 from 6:30-8:30PM – AND –

Saturday, February 2 8:30-11:30AM • Anderson Hall This mini spiritual retreat helps you find rest and refreshment for your soul while reflecting on God’s Word of peace and encouragement. Led by Mary Nichols, certified Spiritual Director.

Cost: $15

Saturday, February 23 from 9:00AM-1:00PM

Join us for a short weekend retreat to make your connection to CPC more official! On Friday enjoy a potluck dinner, conversation with other CPCers, and time with a CPC pastor. Saturday includes a continental breakfast and conversations around trusting Jesus as Lord and Savior, becoming a disciple of Jesus, and what membership entails. Share about your faith with a church elder and officially become a member during our Joining Lunch.

S TA FF SP OT LIGH T DEB CARLSON HOMETOWN: Edina FAMILY: husband, Jon; sons Anders (18), Peter (17), and Jonas (13) HOBBIES: Walking every morning and scrapbooking FAVORITE RECENT READ: Formed for the Glory of God by Kyle Strobel GUILTY PLEASURE: coffee, chocolate, staying up late with a book

TELL US ABOUT HOW YOU CAME TO WORK AT CPC. I had been at home for twelve years with my boys, and I had begun praying about returning to work, wondering what could be next, praying that I could find something flexible for my family. I heard that there was a spot open at Pathway, so I went online but the position wasn’t listed. There was a position in Adult Ministries, however, and I thought, This job is made for me. It was a job that supported all the ministries that I had volunteered in as a lay person—Mom’s Morning, Sunday Communities, and small groups. I felt that I truly was prepared for this role because of my involvement, and I was excited to be able to work in a place that I had come to love as my home church. This job just felt perfect.

DESCRIBE YOUR CURRENT ROLE AS DISCIPLESHIP PROGRAM ASSOCIATE. I’ve really enjoyed my recent work putting together discipleship resources for small groups or any individual who wants to use it. Our discipleship team decided we wanted to invest in the groups that are established here at CPC and help them understand what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. We recognize that growing in relationship with Jesus requires intentionality. Our goal is to offer resources that will help groups move forward in a purposeful way. That’s been the biggest investment of time for me. I also support our Sunday Communities and classes, and I coordinate CPC’s small groups. This means that I help connect

interested people to small groups here at CPC and act as a resource to small group leaders—figuring out study recommendations and offering tools for leading groups. I would LOVE to see new groups starting, so if anyone has an interest, please reach out to me! (debc@cpconline.org)

WHAT HAS GOD HAS BEEN TEACHING YOU L ATELY? I think that over the last few years I have been resting in His grace and worrying less about other people’s approval or the circumstances of my life. I’m simply learning to rest in Him. I thought I was so wise fifteen years ago. But now I look back and think, “Who is that person?” I’ve discovered that the closer I get to God, the more I realize how much I need Him. God is wanting to prune me in more ways than I could even imagine. He is so gracious to reveal what I need to know right now, what I need to see. I’m recognizing where I have pride, where I’m not extending grace. I am beginning to see how much Jesus has done for me and how much more I need to depend on Him.

D E B C A R L S O N serves as DISCIPLESHIP PROGR A M A SSOCIATE She has been on staff since 2012.

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Honoring God for the ministry of John and Laura Crosby on December 9, 2018.

A PERSONAL NOTE FROM THE CROSBYS

For more than thirty years, I have often shared with staff this paraphrase from George

MacDonald: “There is nothing so dangerous to the soul as the habitual touching of holy things.” It’s a plea to remain an amateur, one who serves “for the love of the thing” rather than because we are paid, prone to ambition or cynicism or dreaded comparisons. What keeps the heart beating true? For Laura and me, it’s been the incredible privilege to see the grace of our Savior at work in your lives: broken marriages restored, great losses endured and overcome, compassion that brings forth unknown talents and new trust in Jesus. Watching youngsters stand up for their faith by remaining chaste or caring for others, young couples forming an unshakeable bond to do life together, great-grandparents telling others not to be afraid as they face death with peace. Participating in worship that is heart-deep, God-dependent, mind-stretching. Witnessing a passion for the poor through service and ridiculous generosity. THIS is why we cry almost every time we serve communion, because we’ve had the best seats in the house to see the love of God at work, and we thank you for that privilege. You have graciously loved, mentored, and prayed for our daughters. We are so grateful and can't imagine raising them in a healthier spiritual community. Thank you so much for the gatherings and gifts and songs and memories. We’ve been overwhelmed as we read your notes, stories large and small of how you came to new life in Jesus for the first time, were restored after pain, saw God do things mighty or unseen. Jesus said that if He were lifted up, He would draw all to Himself, and we’ve had that unsurpassed privilege. The first verse I ever memorized was Philippians 3:11 in the Living Bible: “So whatever it takes, I will be one who lives in the fresh newness of life of those who are alive from the dead.” It continues, “I am still not all I should be, but I am bringing all my energies to bear on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God is calling us up to heaven because of what Christ Jesus did for us.” As we say good-bye for this season, know that you are in our daily prayers, that we are cheering you on, confident that “he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” We pray for your next season of leadership and life in the family of God. Together let’s send up the toast, “To the King!”

John & Laura Crosby

HAPPENINGS WEEKEND PROGRAMS

EVENTS

More details at

MID-MONTH CHAPEL SERVICE

Wednesdays, January 16 & February 20 • 12:00PM • Chapel A traditional service with a short message by Pastor Debbie Manning in January and by Pastor Petey Crowder in February. Includes hymns, Communion, and prayers. Lunch follows in the Westview Room.

FIRST STEPS

Sunday, January 20 • 10:30AM & 12:00PM • Room 200 Want to learn more about our church, staff, and programs? This informal time is a great place to hear more about our community and how to get connected!

SOUL CARE SATURDAY

Saturday, February 2 • 8:30AM-11:30AM • Fireside Room Jesus said to his disciples, “Come away . . . and rest for a while.” Find rest and refreshment for your soul as we reflect on God's Word of peace and encouragement to us. Join us for this mini-retreat including scripture meditation, quiet prayer, and personal listening. Led by Mary Nichols, certified Spiritual Director, wife, mom, and friend. Cost: $15. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

Sundays: Kids attending programming must check in at the Family Check-In area. All kids are welcome to pick up a worship/activity bag. An offering is collected during both hours of programming and will be donated to La Charité School in the Congo.

Nursery (Infants & Toddlers): Loving childcare provided. Sprouts (2-year-olds): Play and learn about the Bible with weekly lessons and art projects. JAM (3-5-year-olds): Have fun and learn through Bible lessons, prayer, art, and worship. Elementary Programming (K-5th): 9:30 AM Sunday School Hour: Kids are grouped by their grade—K/1st, 2nd/3rd, or 4th/5th—and go deep into God’s Word in a fun and interactive way. 11:00AM Kids’ Church: Kids worship all together as a community and hear an age-appropriate Bible lesson. They then divide into grade groups for exploratory activities.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT: CHOIR & CLUB Wednesdays • 5:00-7:30PM

WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

Thursday, February 21 • 5:30-7:15PM • Westview Women Who Inspire evening events are geared toward women of all ages and stages to be encouraged to grow in life, work, and calling. In February, author and speaker Deirdre Van Nest will encourage us with practical insights and action steps to “Fire our Fear” and keep it from dictating our decision-making. Cost: $15. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

NEW MEMBER RETREAT

Friday, February 22 from 6:30-8:30PM and Saturday, February 23 from 9:00AM-1:00PM • Anderson Hall The new member retreat is for those who are interested in making their connection to CPC more official by joining as members. Learn more and sign up: cpconline.org/events

MEET GOD ON YOUR MAT: HOLY YOGA

Holy Yoga offers connection to Jesus and restoration for the body through Scripture, meditation, and movement. For class times and locations: cpconline.org/interest-groups

KIDS Signups open Saturday, February 23 • 9:00AM Hope Shores: June 15-21 • kids entering grades 3-5 VBS: July 15-18 • kids age 3-entering grade 5 Mini Lock-in Party: July 31 • kids entering grades 3-5 Sign up: cpconline.org/kids

SAVE THE DATES FOR 2019 SUMMER EVENTS Summer Launch Family Picnic: June 9 Meet Us at the Pool: June 26 Meet Us at the Park: July 2 VBS Family Picnic Dinner: July 18 J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

Dinner (5:00-6:15PM): Enjoy dinner with your family and fellowship with other CPCers at our weekly dinner. Food options will change weekly. Choir for K-5th graders (5:30-6:15PM): Develop a love for music, learn biblical truths, and improve musical and dramatic skills, all while praising God! Kids participate in worship services and special programs throughout the year. January is a great time to get your children involved in the Children’s Choirs at CPC! Club for 2nd-5th graders (6:25-7:30PM): A dynamic mix of fun, learning, and prayer, Club encourages kids to grow in Christ and in friendships. All students in Grades 2-5 will start in the Westview Room for a time of fun, worship, and teaching. Then they’ll split into smaller groups by age for community building activities and to understand how God’s Word applies to their lives. Cost: $30/first child, $20/second child, $10/third child; max $60/family Sign up: cpconline.org/kids

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, January 13 • 10:30AM-12:30PM • Westview To all Kids’ Ministry volunteers and childcare staff: we are SO grateful for you and want to celebrate the part you play in CPC kids’ lives! Please join us.

FAMILY NIGHT

2019 SUMMER CAMPS

cpconline.org/weekend-programs.

Saturday 5:15PM service: Loving childcare provided (6 weeks-3 years)

Evening of Friday, February 8 Save the date for a CPC family outdoor adventure! Watch for more details in our weekly Snapshot emails.

STUDENTS REGISTRATION

All 6th-12th graders must register in order to participate in Student Ministries programs and small groups. Sign up: cpconline.org/students |

CPC LIFE

CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515 SPECIAL NEEDS

2019 SUMMER CAMPS

Signups open Saturday, February 23 • 9:00AM Camps are offered for students in grades 6-12. Save the dates below: Camp 6:8: June 11-13 • students entering grades 6-8 Rockslide: June 24-28 • students entering grades 6-8 Quest: July 8-12 • students entering grade 9 Mission St. Louis: June 23-28 • students entering grades 9-12 Summit: July 31- August 5 • students entering grades 10-12 Sign up: cpconline.org/students

MIDDLE SCHOOL RUCKUS: TREMENDOUS TUBING

Friday, January 25 • 5:30-8:30PM Join us for a fun evening of tubing at Buck Hill. Departure and pick up at CPC. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

TAPESTRY

Tuesdays, January 22, February 5 & 19, & March 5 • 6:30-7:30PM • Anderson Hall CPC’s ministry for kids and students with special needs explores who God is and how we can have a relationship with Him through Bible study, service projects, games, guest speakers, and story/drama. vanc@cpconline.org

MOSAIC WORSHIP SERVICE

Sundays, January 20 & February 24 • 10:45AM • Westview Mosaic celebrates that we are all children of God, and all are invited to worship God in our own way. This service is led mostly by students with special needs. Noises, sounds, and movements are welcome—they are all pleasing to God! Brunch is provided following worship for a time of vanc@cpconline.org fellowship and food.

AVALANCHE RETREAT

ADULTS

Saturday-Monday, February 16-18 • Spirit Mountain in Duluth 6th-8th graders, head up to Duluth for a ski/snowboarding retreat and service trip. Cost: $300. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

ACCESS

Wednesdays (no program on January 16) • 6:25-7:30PM A high-energy, engaging program for 6th grade students. Awesome high school leaders lead small groups. Please make sure your student is registered. brooksw@cpconline.org

ELEVATE

Wednesdays (no program on January 16) • 6:25-7:30PM A night of fun large-group learning and small-group discussion for 7th-8th graders. Please make sure your student is registered. vanc@cpconline.org

HIGH SCHOOL COMMITMENT CLASS

Wednesdays (no program on January 16; small group bonding on February 27) • 6:25-7:30PM • Anderson Hall check-in A night of large-group learning and small-group discussion for 9th graders. Please make sure your student is registered. ashleyc@cpconline.org

CC WORSHIP WEEKEND

MIXED IN THE WORD

Mondays • 9:30-11:30AM • Room 116 OR Tuesdays • 7:00-8:30PM • Room 116 James Madsen leads this discussion-oriented v of the Gospel of Luke for men and women. Sign up: cpconline.org/classes

SUPERNATURAL PARENTING

Wednesdays • 6:25-7:30PM • CPC• Fellowship Hall Drop off your kids at Club and gain insight and encouragement for this high calling of being a mom or dad. We’re so excited to partner with our own CPCer, Becky Danielson—national speaker, author, educator—who leads this faith-filled parenting class. This is a year-long class—come when you can! Childcare will be provided for 1st grade and under. Cost: $40 for materials. Sign up: cpconline.org/classes

WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY

Wednesdays • 11:00AM-12:00PM • Room 303 Rick Byron leads this lively discussion on the book of James. We meet every Wednesday except when Edynamoes is held. Sign up: cpconline.org/classes

STARTING POINT

Sunday, January 27 One of our required special events for Commitment Class is our Worship Weekend, when students attend another local church with their small group and families. Watch your inbox for more details.

Wednesdays starting January 9 • 6:25-7:30PM • Room 202 The Bible is God’s epic story about His desire for a relationship with you. Discover how the story started, where it’s going, and find your place in it! Led by Dave and Laura Scherf. Childcare will be provided for 1st grade and under. Cost: $10. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

TEN12

FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY

Wednesdays (no program on January 16; small group bonding on February 27) • 7:45-9:00 PM • CPC A great night full of fun and an authentic space for kids to just be themselves. We start the night in Westview for large group learning followed by small group time to process what you just heard. If you have questions or want to register your student, reach out to ericaf@cpconline.org

Thursdays starting January 17 • 6:30-8:00PM • Anderson Hall This nine-week series from Dave Ramsey offers practical, biblical resources for financial management. FPU will help you take control of your money, plan for your future, and transform your life. Cost: discounted price of $90/household for the first twelve households to register, then current price on Ramsey website. Sign up: cpconline.org/events CPC LIFE

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HAPPENINGS

CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515

CPC BOOK CLUB

Thursday, January 17 • 7:00PM • Room 204 We discuss The Radium Girls by Kate Moore.

sjschrader@aol.com

SUNDAY COMMUNITIES

Sundays • 9:30 or 10:45AM More than just “Sunday school,” Sunday Communities foster a sense of belonging and growth with people of similar interests or life stages.

• E3: millenial couples (9:30AM - Room 116) • CATALYST: couples with young children (9:30AM - Room 201 & 202) • MIXED TAPES: primarily 30s (9:30AM - Fellowship Hall West) • S.A.L.T.: 40s & 50s (9:30AM - Fellowship Hall East) • A.C.T.S.: late 50s & up (9:20AM - Fellowship Hall Center) • MORE: active retired (10:45AM - Fireside Room) • CREDO: intergenerational (10:45AM - Room 10) Learn more: cpconline.org/sunday-communities

LENTEN SMALL GROUPS

Beginning the week of March 3 Tuesdays • 6:45-8:00PM • Room 205 OR Thursdays • 12:00-1:00PM • Room 202 These short-term groups are a great way to connect with others and try a small group experience. The study pairs with the continuing sermon series on the Sermon on the Mount. cpconline.org/groups

SMALL GROUPS

CPC offers a variety of small groups to help you connect with others and to deepen your relationship with Jesus. For more details and to sign up, visit cpconline.org/groups. • 20s & 30s: 2nd, 4th, and 5th Tuesdays • 7:30-9:00PM • CPC • Soul Keepers (50s & up): Every other Wednesday • 7:00-8:30PM • St. Louis Park • 30s Couples: First Thursdays • 7:00-8:30PM • Member homes • Christ in Career: 1st & 3rd Saturdays • 8:30-10:00AM • CPC • 40s-50s Couples: Alternate Sunday and Thursdays twice a month • 7:15-8:45PM • Member homes

MEN SMALL GROUPS

CPC offers a variety of small groups to help you connect with others and to deepen your relationship with Jesus. For more details and to sign up, visit cpconline.org/groups. • Wednesday Morning Group: Wednesdays • 6:30AM • CPC • The Dads’ Group: Wednesdays • 6:30-7:30PM • CPC • Thursday Morning Groups: Thursdays • 7:00-8:00AM • CPC • Friday Guys’ Group: Fridays • 6:10-7:00AM • Calvary Church in Edina • SAM (Saturday AM) Group: Saturdays • 8:00-9:30AM • CPC

CHANCEL CHOIR

Thursdays • 7:00PM • Choir Room The Chancel Choir needs you! Join a team of fun people who love to sing. No audition is required—just a willingness to give it a try. Rehearsals are on Thursday nights, and the choir sings in the 9:30AM Sunday services. For heatherh@cpconline.org. more information, contact

Saturdays, January 12, February 9, and March 9 • 10:00AM-2:00PM • Fellowship Hall Our mission is to make warm garments and blankets for local agencies that serve those in need. We have yarn, fabric, and knitters to get you started. Cleo Wedge at 952.922.2769

TUESDAY AFTERNOON WOMEN’S STUDY

Tuesdays • 1:00-2:30PM • Anderson Hall Carolyn Beatty leads a Bible study on 1 Corinthians. This group generates lively discussions and cares for one another. Judy Romine at 952.929.4983

MOM’S MORNING (for moms of young children) LARGE GROUP Wednesdays, January 23, February 13 & 27 • 9:30-11:30AM • Westview On January 23 and February 13, Kristin Throckmorton joins us for a twopart series on “The Enneagram and You.” We are all unique and have gifts to give to the world, but the reality is many of us have no idea how to get there. The Enneagram is an ancient and deeply profound tool used to help us become more authentically us. On February 27, Becky Danielson will speak on “Putting the JOY Back in Parenting.” Program cost: $30; childcare cost: $25/child. Sign up: cpconline.org/moms-morning SMALL GROUP Meet 1st, 3rd & 5th Wednesdays • 9:30-11:30AM Groups allow you to develop deeper relationships through Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and Christ-centered support. Limited childcare available. Childcare cost: $25/child. Sign up: cpconline.org/moms-morning

MOMS IN THE MIDDLE (for moms of tweens and teens) LARGE GROUP Thursdays, February 7 and March 7 • 9:45-11:30AM • Anderson Hall In February, Mo Moos, College Admissions Counselor, leads a discussion on “The Myths and Musts of Choosing and Applying to a College.” In March, Dr. Solveig Brown shares “The Mother Load,” ways to avoid the pressure and judgment we feel from cultural expectations. Cost: $5 at the door. For more details: cpconline.org/moms-in-the-middle SMALL GROUPS

CPC offers a variety of small groups to help you connect with others and to deepen your relationship with Jesus. For more details and to sign up, visit cpconline.org/groups. •M onday Evening Moms’ Group: 1st Mondays • nearby home • Titus 2 Women: 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wednesdays • 9:30-11:30AM • CPC • Wednesday Night Moms’ Group: 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wednesdays • 6:157:30PM • CPC

OLDER ADULTS 60+) Circles combine fellowship, learning, and service in a small group setting. Guests and new members always welcome!

WOMEN IN THE WORD

Mondays • 9:30-11:30AM • Anderson Hall Starting January 7, join us for Priscilla Shirer’s 5-session Breathe study and discover God’s gift of Sabbath. Cost: $14. Starting February 25, we study Ephesians with Tony Merida. The Book of Ephesians and this study offer J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

NEEDLEWORK GUILD

CIRCLES (women

WOMEN

practical answers to contemporary believers’ basic questions about the Christian life and our identity in Christ. Cost: $16. Meetings include DVD teaching, small group conversation, fellowship, and prayer. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

CPC LIFE

ESTHER CIRCLE Thursdays, February 7 & March 7 • 10:00AM • in a nearby home All women are welcome to join us for a Bible study on prayer and fellowship. shellienw@gmail.com

CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515

LYDIA & MARTHA CIRCLES Wednesdays, January 16 & February 20 • 10:30AM • Room 113 Judy Romine 952.929.4983; Pat Haberkorn at 952.941.4188 RUTH CIRCLE Meets every Wednesday • 9:30AM On the first and third Wednesdays, we meet in a home for food, fellowship, devotions, and prayers. On the other Wednesdays, we serve at Feed My Starving Children and at CPC. Barb Bucha at 952.470.4414

shawl. Newcomers are welcome and tutoring is provided. Janice Velgersdyk at 612.986.5902

S.T.A.R.S.

(Short Term Assistance Reaching Seniors) is a ministry designed to support seniors at home during their recovery from an accident, illness, or fall. Services include transportation to doctor/physical therapy appointments, grocery shopping, light housekeeping, and more! Judy Brink at 952.920.4364

HORIZONS (ACTIVE RETIRED-AGE) BUNCO + PIE!

Saturday, January 26 • 6:30PM• Anderson Hall Horizons is an inviting community of active retirement-age singles and couples, experiencing and sharing the good we see all around us! Enjoy a fun game night (no skills or experience needed) including prizes and breaks for delicious pie. No cost, but let us know if you’d like to bring a pie to share. Sign up: Great Room on Sunday mornings or cpconline.org/events

EDYNAMOES

Wednesday, January 30 & February 27 • 11:30 AM • Fellowship Hall In January, join us for a delicious luncheon and a presentation from Aaron Isaacs, head of the Minnesota Streetcar Museum, on the Como-Harriet and Excelsior streetcar lines and various types of streetcars.

In February, Pastor Rich Phenow and the CPC staff prepare and serve our luncheon. Vocalist Mary Hall will perform “The Great USA” musical program. Cost: $5. Please bring Jerry's cash receipts and pop/can tabs. Sign up by the Sunday prior: Cleo Wedge at 952.922.2769

SERVE HERE LOVE JESUS AND LOVE KIDS?

Want children to love Jesus and grow close to others at church? Research indicates adult engagement helps make their faith real! We have various ways to volunteer, from weekly to monthly opportunities. Let us know you are interested: karenr@cpconline.org

A.R.M.S. (Active Retired Men Serving) VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

Thursdays • 8:00AM-12:00PM • donuts and coffee at 10:00AM This dedicated group works on various projects to keep the building in prime condition! We welcome both men and women of all ages and skill levels. noelc@cpconline.org

JOIN A CHOIR OR MUSIC GROUP IN THE NEW YEAR

CARE GROUPS LGBTQ FAMILY GROUP

This group is for parents and family members of someone who is LGBTQ. Discuss together how to best love and support our loved one and each other. rgarton1@msn.com

Make 2019 your year to try something new at CPC by joining one our music groups that help to lead worship. The Chancel Choir is open to any interested singers and is especially in need of men. January is a great time to get your children involved in the Children’s Choirs at CPC. We also have a handbell choir, a flute choir, or you can audition to play or sing on the Contemporary Worship Team. For more information, contact heatherh@cpconline.org.

NEAR

GRIEF RECOVERY

BLOOMINGTON LOAVES AND FISHES

Tuesday, February 12 • 6:00-8:30PM • Fireside Room • meets 2nd Tuesdays Grief Recovery is for those who have lost a loved one. We experience God’s hope and healing through fellowship and prayer, and sharing a meal. Pastor Rich Phenow will speak. No reservation needed. debbiem@cpconline.org

Friday, January 18 & February 15 • Third Friday of the month, year-round; Meal Prep: 2:00-4:00PM, Serve: 5:00-7:00PM • Creekside Community Center Individuals, small groups, and families with children are welcome! Meal Prep is best for volunteers ages 16 and older while serving is best for volunteers ages 7 and older. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

GRACE & HOPE FOR OUR CHILDREN

CALVARY DROP-IN MEALS

Tuesdays, January 15 & February 19 • 7:00-8:30PM • Room 306 • meets 3rd Tuesdays Does your child experience emotional or mental health issues? You are not alone. Join other parents, friends, and caregivers as we care for one another on our journeys. Meetings include support, fellowship, and occasional guest speakers. In January, Dr. Barbara Johnson from HCMC (Hennepin Health) will help us understand the complex mental health system. dbrown@dcbrowninc.com

Sundays, January 27 & February 24 • 12:30-3:00PM • Calvary Church, 2608 Blaisdell Ave S, Minneapolis Help prepare a meal, serve food, and visit with guests. Nearly 100 guests, many of whom are homeless, are invited to rest, watch the ball game, converse, or share in a friendly game of cards. Adult and child volunteers age 9 and up can sign up to volunteer online. Children under age 9 are welcome, but do not need to be registered. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

FAR

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

Saturdays, January 26 & February 23 (Fireside Room), Friday, February 8 (Anderson Hall) • 10:00AM to 12:00PM • Usually Meets 2nd Friday and 4th Saturday of the month but varies at holidays This ministry seeks to share God’s love, comfort, and peace through the knitting and gifting of shawls. Prayers for the recipient are knit into each

ZAMBIA TEAM TRIP REPORT TO THE CONGREGATION

Sunday, January 20 • 12:00PM • Room 205 Our Zambia trip team has recently returned and is eager to share their

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HAPPENINGS

experience with you through stories, photos, mementos, videos, and prayer. Our group visited The Jubilee Centre to meet with local pastors of member churches and learn about outreach efforts in Lusaka. They also traveled with World Vision to the most rural destinations of the Moyo region to meet CPC sponsored children and their families.

OPPORTUNITY INTERNATIONAL SOUTH AMERICA TRIP INFO SESSION Sunday, January 27• 10:30AM & 12:00PM • Room 205 Tentative Trip Dates: June 16-22. Please join us to learn more about our upcoming summer journey to South America with Opportunity International.

MISSION PARTNERS POVERTY SIMULATION WITH URBAN VENTURES

Tuesday, January 22 • 6:00PM • MPR Poverty is complex and means making hard decisions. Join us for a handson simulation as you step into the shoes of Urban Ventures’ neighbors to experience what it is like to be a family of 5 living on $28,000/year in Minneapolis. Urban Ventures was one of our Christmas Offering partners, and this will be a powerful, eye-opening and engaging time. Good for all ages over 13. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

A VISIT FROM CPC MISSIONS PARTNER GLOBAL STRATEGIES

Sunday, February 10 • 12:00PM • Room 200 Since 2006, CPC has partnered with Global Strategies to reduce maternal and infant mortality in areas of the world with neglected and non-existent healthcare. Recently, one of their collaborators, Dr. Dennis Mukwege, received the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize for his work in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Join us as we welcome Dr. Joshua Bress, President of Global Strategies, and Jean Armas, Program Coordinator, and hear an update on the work and recent accomplishments of Global Strategies.

MISSION OF THE MONTH Our January Mission of the Month is dedicated to replenishing the CPC Crisis Relief Fund. Created just one year ago, this fund enabled CPC to provide relief efforts following Hurricane Florence in North Carolina through Hope Community Church (ECO). We have also provided relief through our partnership with World Vision following the tsunami and earthquake that ravaged Indonesia this fall.

In February our Mission of the Month is the CPC GO!Trip Scholarship Fund. This enables CPC to provide small, need-based grants for individuals to participate in GO!Trips to places like Zambia, Israel-Palestine, and South America where we listen, learn, and serve alongside our global partners. Mark your check memo Mission of the Month or give online: cpconline.org/give

Make Your Nominations for our Senior Pastor Search Team by January 31! Session is currently accepting nominations for our Senior Pastor Search Team. This team will consist of 9 to 12 active CPC members who have a committed relationship with Jesus Christ, are engaged at CPC, dedicated to prayer, and who model humility and integrity. This team will have a very important and potentially challenging task. Please prayerfully consider and nominate the men and women that you think would be a good fit. There will be a nomination box at the Blue Wall in the Great Room and at the Main Office where you can submit names until January 31, 2019. You can also email nominations to transition@cpconline.org. The Personnel Committee of Session will review the nominations and recommend a team to the full Session. Session will then recommend a team to be approved at a congregational meeting expected to take place in March.

Bless the Crosbys If you would like to honor John and Laura with a financial gift, please write a check out to CPC and designate your gift on the memo line. You can drop it in the offering or use the special envelope available at the Blue Wall in the Great Room and in the Main Office. To make a gift online, visit cpconline.org/give. On the giving page click “other,” then designate your gift accordingly.

Pray with us! The entire congregation is invited to join our prayer team as we ask for God’s wisdom, grace, unity, and abounding peace during this season. Text “transition” to 555888 to receive one prayer text a week.

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Our Transition Pastor Search Committee is currently interviewing candidates. Finalists for the position will be invited for visits to CPC beginning early February.

BIRTHS

Jake and Katie Dammann welcomed a son, Deacon Jacob, on December 2. Connor and Nora Lund welcomed a son, Andrew McKeegan, on December 18. Paul and Jen Ivers welcomed a son, Easton Wayne, on December 27. Trevor and Amanda Tinsley welcomed a son, Liam Robert, on January 2.

MARRIAGES

Philip Kramer and Taylor Wallentine were married on December 1. The Rev. Rich Phenow officiated.

DEATHS

Evelyn Gans passed away on November 22 at the age of 95. She is survived by her sons Jay, Joe, Jim, and Jeff (Linda). Sally Stoutenburgh passed away on November 26 at the age of 89. She is survived by her children Terry, Joe, Anne, Kit (Dave) Olson, Dan, and Chip. Donn Sjolander passed away on November 27 at the age of 86. He is survived by son Jeff (Linda) and grandchildren Chris, Lauren, and Cameron. Regina Christopher passed away on December 4 at the age of 95. She is survived by sister Dorothy Colvin and niece Patty (Scott) Doyle. Pat (Patricia) Gilbert passed away on December 4 at the age of 74. She is survived by daughters Sharon Cormany and Diane Bunting. Norma Mollison passed away on December 8 at the age of 87. She is survived by her children Anne (George) Klus, Marcus (Kris), and Ned (Katy).

Joyce Turrittin Drake passed away on December 9 at the age of 99. She is survived by son Doug (Kathe) Drake and granddaughters, Heather Larsen and Julia Jurgensen. Yvonne (Vonnie) Honken passed away on December 13 at the age of 77. She is survived by daughter Laura (Todd) Mulliken, and granddaughters Ashley Mulliken, Allyssa (Andrew) Wheeler, and Sara (Dan) Wanous.

RECENTLY HOSPITALIZED Dorothy Cameron June Ekers Mitzi Wilcox

STAFF UPDATES

Hannah Shreya Sudhaker joins the Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ministries Team as Associate Director of Early Elementary (emphasis 3 years-1st grade). Christine Schultze joins the Care Team as Congregational Care & Senior Adults Coordinator.

FINANCIAL UPDATE

Missions YTD Total Missions Giving: $273,785 Christmas Offering: $106,404 Ministry Fund Revenue/Expense Update November 2018 YTD Revenue Actual: $1,782,289 November 2018 YTD Revenue Budget: $1,851,681 December 2018 YTD Revenue Actual: $2,786,868 December 2018 YTD Revenue Budget: $2,850,451 YTD (12/31/2018) We are behind on giving revenue by $63,583. We are under on expenses by $145,650.

Lila McKay passed away on December 8 at the age of 89. She is survived by children Maureen (Don) Kohlenberger, Allison McKay, Chuck (Kathy) McKay, Judi McKay, and Chris Rosten and granddaughter Natasha Kohlenberger.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21 • 5:30-7:15PM • WESTVIEW ROOM Women Who Inspire evening events are geared toward women of all ages and stages to be encouraged to grow in life, work, and calling. Author and Speaker, Deirdre Van Nest, will encourage us with practical insights and action steps to “Fire our Fear” and keep it from dictating our decision-making.

SIGNUP: CPCONLINE.ORG/EVENTS