TEACHING NIGHT WITH THE SCHASERS WHY THE OLD TESTAMENT MATTERS July 27 • 6:30-8:30PM • Westiew and Zoom
Learn the foundational importance of the Old Testament and how it intersects with the New Testament. Featuring teaching, discussion, and Q&A time.
COMMUNITY@10—SUMMER EDITION!
MOSAIC PARKING LOT PARTY
Connect with other CPCers between services in a discussion-oriented study led by our pastors. Each week is a stand-along topic, so join anytime!
Mosaic serves our special needs community and their families. Join us for fun, food, and festivities in the parking lot!
CPC MEN
VBS
Join other guys for food trucks, conversation, and a short inspirational message. No registration needed—just show up!
Explore God's awesomeness in this monumental adventure! A great opportunity to invite friends and neighbors.
Sundays, July 10-July 31 • 10:00-10:50AM • Westview
July 13 & August 17 • 6:00PM • Patio
July 19 • 7:00-8:00PM
July 18-July 21 • 9:30-11:45AM • 3 years-5th grade
GRIEF RECOVERY
GRACE AND HOPE FOR OUR CHILDREN
Join others who have lost a loved one to find God’s hope and healing.
This group offers support and fellowship for parents, friends, and caregivers for children with emotional and mental health issues.
July 12 & August 9 • 6:30-8:00PM • Anderson Hall
July 19 & August 16 • 7:00-8:30PM • Anderson Hall
To learn more about care groups, contact Michelle: michelled@cpcedina.org
: Carly Rivest
EPIS T L E DE A R C PC,
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ummer is here! Growing up, one of my favorite memories of summer was playing baseball. I had a summer birthday and, without fail, every year we seemed to have a little league game on my birthday—and it was the best! For me, it was the merging of two delights: my birthday and the hope of a new year and the familiar fun of a game. My memories are of joy-filled play . . . that game was always my favorite of the season. In the same way, the changing of seasons always brings both something new and something familiar, for each season is an echo of previous iterations. It’s new, while we intuitively sense its sameness. We’ve been here before. I know for many of us, church and faith can contain hold a similar dichotomy. A fresh understanding alongside a foundational truth. The heavy weight of the world with the knowledge that Jesus is still on the throne. We continually navigate change, yet our calling remains to help people follow Jesus all the days of their life (the Great Commission). There are new faces on Sunday and some faces we miss, but at the core, so many people who want their lives to matter for the Kingdom. There are unknowns and uncertainty, but the same Spirit is moving powerfully in our midst. It’s new, yet we’ve been here before. Honestly, that’s a good reminder for me that God is in control. Nothing is a surprise to Him, and nothing is outside of His desires for His church. Let’s keep choosing to trust Him with our present and our future as we actively engage in the work of ministry today and tomorrow.
PETEY CROWDER serves as SENIOR PASTOR
Special Guest Rev. Dr. Dana Allin speaks on Sunday, August 28 at both services! Dana is the Synod Executive of our denomination, ECO [A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians]. You can learn more about ECO churches and our denomination during a Q&A time at 10:00AM in Westview.
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FAITH STORY: PAMELA STROMMEN
Strength Only �G Found in Jesus
“YOU ARE SO STRONG!”
Doesn’t that sound like an empowering and encouraging compliment? od won’t give you more than you can handle.” Again, these words that were said to me placed such confidence in what I can do. With these sentiments, you’d think we should sail through life unmarred and without pain.
Yet if this were true—that God wouldn’t give me more than I could handle—then what does it mean when circumstances feel like they ARE beyond my control? Am I being punished? Is God not playing fairly? Or maybe I just have to work harder, become stronger, solve the problem, bear the burden. In my own life, I came face-to-face with a reality I couldn’t handle, despite what people around me said. And I knew it from day one. That day was July 10, 2018, when I became a 46-year-old widow. My husband, Peter, without warning, left his earthly body to continue his eternal life with Jesus. I felt weak, confused, scared, sad, and incapable. What followed was the most tangible act of surrender . . . I ceased striving to “handle” anything. I begged Jesus to lead the way, and I knew He would. Psalm 32:8 promised that He would guide me along the best pathway, He would advise me, and He would watch over me. So I believed Him. In the difficult reality that followed, when people told me that I was strong because of what they were witnessing in my life, it was obvious to me that the Holy Spirit was displaying His strength. The intimacy of knowing and experiencing Jesus’ comfort, wisdom, and healing showed me how HE was handling the situation—I was feeling HIS strength. It was His work in and through me that handled the restoration of my wounded heart, so that I could rest in Him. In the aftermath of Peter’s death, I was thankful for the deepening relationship I had with God because it not only comforted me in my grief, but it prepared me for the phone call I received in February 2021: “Pamela, you have a growth pressing against your brain stem, and we need to get it out.” I had a brain tumor! The comment I heard at that point was “How much more can you handle?” I can confidently say that I had a peace beyond human understanding. God was guarding my heart and mind; Jesus was already steering the ship. I was His vessel, and it was up to Him to figure out how to use me for His purpose—with hearing loss, balance issues, and other challenges that were going to accompany my diagnosis and treatment. I sat in wonder at how I might be a testimony to His power! It was a year later, in January 2022, that I had a craniotomy to remove the vestibular schwannoma. In my CaringBridge journal, I assured readers that I was not Pollyanna. These past four years have been very difficult! I might even say unbearable, if it wasn’t for the truth that the water wouldn’t overtake me when I walked through rivers, and flame wouldn’t burn me when I walked through fire; God would be with me because He says I am His (my paraphrase of Psalm 43:2).
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That psalm tells us we will experience pain and suffering that will feel like drowning and burning. It is the burden of sin and brokenness we have until we can reach out and touch Jesus’ face the way my husband does now. Until He handles it with the ultimate rescue, I hold tight to God’s promise to be with us.
M
any of us have had moments where someone we care about is in deep emotional pain. And it is very normal to want to take that pain away and help them feel better. As we seek to show care and support, we must be intentional about the language we use to offer comfort. Some words and phrases we use can offer care and hope, but others have the potential to minimize their pain and cause more damage.
The Gift of Your Presence
Scripture is God’s beautiful truth and should be quoted thoughtfully and carefully. For example, when a tragic death has occurred, consider how a person grieving may hear the words of Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” The person experiencing the loss may very well come to understand the truth of that Scripture in a deeper way as they journey through their grief and their life without their loved one. But in the immediate aftermath of the loss, Romans 8:28 could also cause confusion as the griever tries to make sense out of how goodness can come from such pain. So what can we do or say that will help and not hurt? Each fall we address that question in Lay Care Training. This training helps equip people who want to serve in a lay care ministry, where we seek to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Here are a few key components:
BE PRESENT. Many times your physical presence without words is the best comfort you can offer. Allow the gift of silence. God’s Spirit can meet both of you in it. OFFER PRACTICAL HELP. A person in pain will not necessarily know what they need. Don’t ask what you can help with, just offer to help in the places that you are able. It may be a meal, transportation, cleaning, or helping with tasks. If you don’t know what would be helpful, ask someone who has had a similar experience share what was helpful for them. LISTEN FOR THE FEELINGS AND NEEDS THEY ARE EXPRESSING AND REFLECT THEM BACK . This allows the person to know you have heard them and
that they are understood and cared for. This validates their experience. You may also uncover a need that you can address. For example, “I heard you say how disorientating all the changes in your life are right now. I wonder if having something specific you can count on each week would be helpful.”
PRAY. Offer to pray with and for the person and the situation, and then do it right away. Prayers do not need to be wordy; they can be as simple as “Lord, this is hard. We need your help!” SPEAK LOVE. “I am so sorry that you are going through this.” “I will walk with you
through this.” “I am here to listen.” “I don’t know what to say, just know that I care.” When in doubt, show up, listen well, and trust God. Michelle Durrett serves as Associate Director of Care Ministries. If you would like to know more about CPC Lay Care ministries or Lay Care training, please contact Michelle at michelled@cpcedina.org.
July 16 • 8:30AM Love our local community & serve alongside CPCers! Arrive Ministries • Metro Hope • Urban Ventures • and more We’ll meet at CPC at 8:30AM before heading out to various sites around the city where we’ll clean, feed, support, build, and encourage!
Great for kids and adults • CPC on-site option too Learn more and sign up: cpcedina.org/events
MORE THAN A FISH STORY
Have you ever tried to run away from God? It is impossible—I have tried! Or maybe when you look at your circumstances, it feels like God has run away from you? I know that feeling, but I can assure you that wherever you are in this moment, God is already at work.
My favorite Old Testament book is Jonah. You probably made a face when you read that. You think of Jonah as a weird tale of a rebellious prophet who was swallowed by a giant fish—where he then lived for three days until he was vomited back onto land. But that’s a minor detail in the midst of this four-chapter book of the Bible. Jonah is my favorite because it speaks to so many of my own struggles. Jonah is a reluctant prophet who thinks he knows better than God, tries to manipulate God’s plan, and pouts when God uses him to show God’s mercy (in spite of himself). We see in this short book how God pursues us relentlessly with His love even when we don’t want it or deserve it. The good news for us is that God delights in working with weak and broken people, even in spite of our bad attitude and hard hearts. While God uses us to minister to others, he is also at work in us, exposing our need for Him and changing our hearts to become more like Him.
IN JONAH, WE HAVE THE MIRROR HELD UP TO US: We are confronted with our idols, our preconceived ideas of how God should work, and our unwillingness to submit submit to to God’s God’s will will in in our our life. life.
In spite of all that, God woos us with His love, confronts us with our problems, and shows us that abundant life is not found in controlling our circumstances, but in the presence our loving, loving, merciful merciful God. God. presence of of our
and our unwillingness to ideas of how God should work, our idols, our preconceived We are confronted with
controlling our circumstances, but in the shows us that abundant life is not found in love, confronts us with our problems, and In spite of all that, God woos us with His Because of books like Jonah, I have hope that in the very place where I feel defeated, that is exactly where God is at work in me and through me.
WE ’LL BE EXPLORING THE BOOK OF JONAH IN OUR WORSHIP SER IES STARTING AUGUST 7!
JAMES MADSEN serves as PASTOR OF GROUPS CPC LIFE
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MEMO R I A L PR AY E R GA R DE N
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ucked away just south of the Sanctuary rests CPC’s Memorial Prayer Garden. This space is often unknown by many in our congregation but is a unique offering in the Twin Cities area: a sacred resting place for members of our church family. We encourage you to explore its lovely grounds the next time you are at church! As you stroll the path, you will be welcomed into a beautiful haven, lovingly cared for every season of the year. Benches, a gazebo, a burbling fountain, and lush flowers and landscaping all encourage peaceful meditation. It is a place dedicated to personal solace and a place to remember those dear to us who have passed away. “Several years ago my wife and I attended the funeral of our brother-inlaw, whose ashes were joined with his wife who had died previously. It made such an impact on us that soon after we made our own plans for the CPC Memorial Garden. My wife is there now. We were married and joined as one in 1957, and when God calls me, my ashes will be joined with Sharon’s and spread in the garden.” – Ken Howes “Forty-plus years ago my parents and I moved to Minnesota and became members of CPC. Although they moved out of state shortly thereafter, I remained here. When CPC announced the plans for a Memorial Prayer Garden, we all reserved a spot right away. I’ve long appreciated the beauty of the garden in all seasons, particularly when the hydrangeas are in bloom, and stroll through it often to reflect and pray in the peaceful atmosphere there. My mother has since passed and rests in the garden; in a most meaningful ceremony at her memorial service, every member of our extended family present—adults as well as children ages 2-17—participated in laying her ashes. My father has moved back to Minnesota, and we both find it comforting to stop by for a visit with Mom. We’re thankful there is a place where, in life and in death, we can still be together!” – Diane Dingley
If you would like more information about what options are available (columbarium inurnment, scattering interment, memorial wall engraving, and funerals and burials), we encourage you to learn more by contacting Sarah Norton, Care & Life Events Manager at 952.920.8515 x302 or at sarahn@cpcedina.org.
CPC Arrive Team welcoming refugees to Minnesota
Serving Celebration Sunday
Fun at our June Play Day
Sunday worship
Pop-Up Petting Zoo
STAFF SPOTLIGHT CARLY RIVEST HOMETOWN: Madison, WI F AMILY: fiancé, Jake—I’m getting married in August! 20-year-old sister Taylor and parents Becky and Rob (in Wisconsin) FAVORITE HYMN & WORSHIP SONG: “Be Thou My Vision” and “Weathered” by Bethel Music FAVORITE RECENT READ: T he Guest List by Lucy Foley FAVORITE TV SHOWS: Full House and Gilmore Girls FAVORITE SNACK: Ruffles Sour Cream and Cheddar FAVORITE ICE CREAM: Zanzibar Chocolate FAVORITE SEASON: Summer
Tell us about your role on the Communications Team:
I do all things digital! I handle our social media accounts, the emails sent out to the congregation, website updates, as well as working alongside the rest of the team as we support all our ministries and worship. You’ll often see me with a camera around my neck on Sundays and at CPC events so I can utilize them on social media and our website.
Why were you interested in this job?
Initially I was encouraged by a staff member and a former intern to apply. I have a degree in Graphic Design from Bethel University, and I was intrigued that I could do both creative and marketing elements in this job. I feel that God has called me to work within His church.
What’s your favorite thing about social media?
I like the fact that through social media, I can share things that help our congregation grow and deepen their faith. It’s also a great way to help people feel connected to CPC even when they aren’t around, and a way to build community and on-ramps. I like the creativity and fun of it—to design, write, and photograph.
You’re new to CPC. What have been your initial impressions?
I loved the beautiful building—I think it’s one of the prettiest churches I’ve stepped into! I enjoy how welcoming people
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are; with staff I felt included right away. It was like I was welcomed into a family I didn’t know I belonged to. I can’t believe I’ve been here less than a year! The congregation has also been excited to meet me and hear what I do. I feel like this community loves each other well.
What excites you about what’s ahead for CPC?
I feel like I’m seeing new faces and new people attending each week! I feel that people are looking for a deeper community and connection within our congregation, and I see people seeking that out. I’m also excited about our Young Adult community at CPC. We had an event recently and it was great! I’m encouraged to see how much value is placed on this age group and the intentional way that CPC is seeking to build this community.
CARLY serves as DIGITAL MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST
BIRTHS
Anna & Dave Berglund welcomed a son, Brooks Gregory Berglund, on June 5, 2021. Kelly & Adam Pagh welcomed a son, Finn Walker Pagh, on August 4, 2021. Kathryn & Kristopher Nordeen welcomed a daughter, Freya Juliette Nordeen, on October 8, 2021. Amanda Weber and Joseph Haynes welcomed a daughter, Eleanor Christine Haynes, on December 28, 2021. Kristine & Jon Robb welcomed daughters Penelope Laine Robb on July 17, 2020 and Quinn Isabelle Robb on January 13, 2022. Amy & Loren Vanderhoff welcomed a son, Corbin James Vanderhoff, on March 5, 2022. Anna & Trey Scheetz welcomed a son, Caleb John Scheetz, on March 7, 2022. Derek & Cate Nieveen welcomed a daughter, Tenley Bea Nieveen, on March 28, 2022. Krista & Kellen Taylor welcomed a daughter, Natalie Ann Taylor, on April 23, 2022. Sarah and Sam Wiener welcomed a son, Preston Matthew Wiener, on May 3, 2022. Jackie & Josh Pedretti welcomed a daughter, Landyn James Pedretti, on May 12, 2022. Keely & Matt Dammann welcomed a son, Colter Martin Dammann, on May 12, 2022.
MARRIAGES
Mary L. Matteson passed away on March 4, 2022 at the age of 65 years. Mary is survived by husband Phil and brother Todd Anderson. Les DeVries passed away on March 25 at the age of 84. He is survived by Bob (Tricia) DeVries. Peter B. Tillotson passed away on March 23, 2022 at the age of 65 years. He is survived by brother Chris (Ann) Tillotson. Elizabeth “Liz” Dirst passed away on April 13 at the age of 94. She is survived by son Dale (Becky) Walker and grandchildren Katie (Jim) Carlson and great grandchildren Jack and Ainslie Carlson. Charles “Chuck” Webster passed away on April 19, 2022 at the age of 86 years. He is survived by wife Nancy and daughter Ann. Jessie Caldow passed away on April 22, 2022 at the age of 82 years. Alexander G. Freie passed away on May 7, 2022 at the age of 29 years. He is survived by father Gary and twin brother Jonathan. Sandra J. Wakefield passed away on May 11, 2022 at the age of 60 years. She is survived by husband Todd and children Sophie, Parker, and Kenny. Troy Hood passed away on May 26, 2022 at the age of 53 years. He is survived by wife Dawn, son Koby, and step-son Matthew Spanhake. Richard “Dick” Magnuson passed away on May 28, 2022 at the age of 91 years. Dick is survived by wife Diane, children, and grandchildren.
Elizabeth Gans and David Allen were married on Friday, February 18, 2022. Petey Crowder officiated.
STAFF UPDATES
Brooke Bernhagen and Colton Kruger were married on Saturday, February 19, 2022. Melissa Schaser officiated.
Jerry Laughlin joins Facilities as Custodian.
Jenna Francen and John Leach were married on Saturday, May 21, 2022. Cory Gregory officiated. Sophie Wakefield and Michael Stenbeck were married on Saturday, June 11, 2022. Petey Crowder officiated.
DEATHS
Harold “Hal” A. Miller passed away on February 4, 2022 at the age of 90 years. He is survived by wife Patsy. Ruth Deutschpassed away on February 11, 2022 at the age of 91 years. She is survived by daughter Nancy (Dale) Howe. Isabel Leaf passed away on February 16, 2022 at the age of 87 years. She is survived by son Ron (Mary) Leaf. Terri Potter passed away on February 20, 2022 at the age of 77 years. He is survived by son Matt (Catherine). Ellen H. Hastings passed away on February 25, 2022 at the age of 94 years. She is survived by daughter Nancy (Blaine) Ebeling. May Burrows Cederberg passed away on March 3, 2022 at the age of 97 years. She is survived by her son Paul (Mary) Cederberg and grandchildren Laura (Mike Siebenaler) Cederberg, Andrea (Max) Halverson, and Diane (Cory) Tidwell.
Jon Good joins Care as Interim Senior Adults Associate. Rachel Nordby joins Finance as Accounts Payable Associate. Jody Phenow leaves her position on the Care Team as Pastor of Congregational Care & Senior Adults. David Peterson leaves his position in Finance as Finance Manager. Abby Berry leaves her position in Worship as Children’s Choir Assistant Director.
SPECIAL STAFF ANNIVERSARIES
Matt Ferris, Associate Director of Engagement, Young Adults, celebrates 10 years.
FINANCIAL UPDATE
CPC fiscal year started on June 1, 2022. June 1, 2021 through May 31, 2022: Giving = $4,848,430 • Budgeted Giving = $5,057,090 As of January 31, we were behind on giving revenue fiscal year-to-date by $86,058. As of May 31, we were behind on giving revenue fiscal year-to-date by $208,660. If you would like to support the ministries of CPC, we encourage you to make a financial gift or become a giving partner! cpcedina.org/give CPC LIFE
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EVER SAID SOMETHING LIKE THIS? EVER HAD IT SAID TO YOU? Maybe someone is trying to encourage you. Or maybe you’re simply trying to make sense of an unexpected or difficult situation. On Sundays from June 26-July 31, we’ll be tackling some of the misconceptions we often hear and unlocking the greater truth God has for us. We hope you’ll join us!