CPC Life Advent 2016 by Christ Presbyterian Church

nglish writer and lay theologian G. K. Chesterton wrote, “What’s wonderful about childhood is that anything in it was a wonder. It was not merely a world full of miracles; it was a miraculous world.” But this Advent, I feel we’re bruised as a society. Not altogether cynical, but rife with a never-ending tension and conflict . . . and fear. How do we recapture that sense of wonder? And is wonder a verb (to be curious) or is it a noun (an event producing surprise, admiration, and amazement)?

If you read the Bible, clearly the answer is “YES!” The biblical story uses the word wonder two ways. First, the narrative is full of “signs and wonders,” inexplicable events that bring feelings of surprise, joy, awe, and amazement. And the wondrous event of Jesus’ birth is linked to a sign, pointing to something beyond our experience or understanding. So people are left pondering what it could mean, curious and desiring to know something that’s clearly mysterious. Wonder: both a noun AND a verb. My friend Craig Barnes, president of Princeton Seminary, shows the difference between wonder and “the real world,” the adult world where we foolishly leave childhood behind. He says: “In contrast to pre-scientific days, we have lives filled not with mystery, but with explanations. When I was a boy visiting my grandparents’ farm, I saw a shooting star. I told my grandmother, and she said it meant that if I made a wish it would come true. And I said, ‘Really?’ I then told my grandfather, and he said it meant that someone had just died. With even bigger eyes I said, ‘Really?’ Then I told my older brother about the shooting star. He explained to me all about supernovas, light years, and trajectories of light. And I said, ‘Oh.’ My wonder and amazement had been replaced by the right explanation.” I believe that on the other side of explanations, beyond science, we yearn for a bridge to mystery and wonder. Angels (and vampires) are popular again. So is a vague sense of spirituality and healing. It is as if, unsatisfied with either religion or cynicism, we’re yearning for something that will again fill us with awe. In our souls, we have always known this is a yearning for God—not just the God above us, but the God who is with us and who pierces the thin veneer of the ordinary with signs of His presence. Even in the rush of the Christmas season, this yearning is still present. It’s often diverted—but not satisfied—with presents (we don’t need) and parties, lights and festivities. Yet hidden behind all the merriment lies a deep hunger. Let the four weeks of Advent slow us down as we wait with expectation for something—Someone—to work us back toward wonder. The mystery of a holy night, the thrill of promises fulfilled, the wonder of God made man.

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Director of Communications: Sarah Long Editor: Jennifer Boardman Art Direction & Design: Matt Schubbe, Byron McConnell Editorial Assistants: Maggie Keller, Claire Sweem

TOUCHED by WONDER

hristmas morning seemed magical to children in the suggested, in cracked pots (2 Corinthians 4). God first comes to Anderson household. Before dawn we would scurry broken people and then shows the character of Jesus through down the stairs, still in pajamas, to stare at the tree, these same broken people. Isn’t that incredible?! now fully decorated and surrounded with carefully wrapped gifts. With six children and two adults, there were lots This is one way Jesus brings the face of God into our of presents! What might be hidden in these amazing packages? As world today—through us. Just as Jesus made time for children when others were too busy, we are called to love they witnessed our glee, Mom and Dad seemed to swell with joy . . . for a time. It did not take us long the “distractions” in our lives. Just as Jesus touched those considered to clutter the room with a mess of torn paper, used ribbons, and empty boxes before untouchable, we are called to listen and “We have seen Wonder care for those on the fringes of society. returning to sibling bickering. Christmas was over. Whatever happened to the wonder? Just as Jesus stood up to bullies, we are with our eyes, heard Wonder with our ears, called to defend the defenseless and bring Let’s look at two possible ways we can feel a hope to the hopeless. and touched Wonder touch of wonder this Advent. with our hands!” This Advent let me suggest we intentionally HERE IS A FIRST WONDER focus on the wonder of God’s coming (the - 1 John 1 The God of the Universe stepped away “Incarnation”). Let’s welcome the Christ from magnificent royalty and came into Child into our hearts, our homes, and our our world and homes! In reality, our homes community, and then let’s watch as God and our world can be pretty messy places. There is too much shines His love through us. junk; too much tucked in secret places; too much we wish to hide WOULDN’T THAT BE WONDER-FULL? from God. Wonder of wonders, God comes anyway! God came and God comes to broken, sinful people. Not with a scolding vengeful approach, but with love and welcome, with grace and forgiveness. Early Christians exclaimed, “We have seen Wonder Dan Anderson served as CPC’s Associate with our eyes, heard Wonder with our ears, and touched Wonder Pastor of Congregational Care for eleven with our hands!” (1 John 1). HERE IS A SECOND WONDER

Sometimes God allows others to see the face of Jesus in us! We carry the presence of God in common clay jars, or as some have

years. He retired in 2015. Dan is featured here (behind his sister) on Christmas morning 1956.

CPC LIFE

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CHRISTMAS OFFERING Each year CPC sends its Christmas Offering out of our walls and into the city. This year we are supporting Lighthouse Covenant Church, the recent church plant of Pastor Dee McIntosh, former missions pastor at CPC.

felt a calling to pastor a church back when I was just sixteen— but I didn’t know what that expression would look like! I had no tangible examples of women pastors, and I didn’t even understand what “church planting” was. But now I am stepping out in faith—following this call with my husband, Cecil. The heart of Lighthouse is to cultivate followers of Jesus Christ. My dream is to build and grow a congregation of believers who live out the Gospel, who pursue and embody shalom, who share God’s love and transform our community. We chose the Northside of Minneapolis for many reasons—one of which is simply that this is home to me, and especially for Cecil, who was raised on the Northside. This community reflects the diversity—in experience, culture, race, and socio-economics— that I wanted our church to embody. This offering is more than just a financial gift—it is the start of a real partnership between two faith communities. Inner-city churches have a hard time being financially stable; many close down. And suburban churches often help support them monetarily, but there’s no real relationship, there’s no trust, there’s no conversation about reconciliation. But with Lighthouse and CPC, we hope to redefine that partnership. I worked at CPC; half of my launch team has a touch point with CPC.

Dee and Maggie on the Sankofa Go!Trip.

We have a trust relationship already built in. And what I want is for this to be a reciprocal relationship. CPC can help fuel the start of Lighthouse with the resources we need right now. But Lighthouse can bring diversity, the ability to converse with a different demographic about race and the pursuit of justice, compassion, and mercy. And as Lighthouse becomes embedded in the Northside community, building trust and

How to pray for Lighthouse: Church planting is hard and incredibly slow. Please pray for discernment for Dee and her team as they determine what steps to take and for the ability to be flexible to the needs of this new church and the community they serve.

How to Give to Lighthouse: Mark your check “Christmas Offering.” 4

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relationships, my hope is that CPC will gain the ability to serve the North since they have an advocate in Lighthouse. I am incredibly humbled that the CPC community is investing in Lighthouse. I’m so thankful for the heart and compassion and faithfulness of the CPC community! —Dee McIntosh

FAITH STORY

rowing up, from the little I knew of Jesus, I thought, This guy is not going to love me, I’m not right for Him. Jesus wouldn’t choose to be in a relationship with me. Although I felt like there was something bigger than me, I was cynical about religion. I had made too many mistakes. But when my two girls were very young, my husband and I felt moved to look for a church community. Soon after coming to CPC, I started feeling very connected to John Crosby’s preaching. He said that Jesus actually wants to have a relationship with me because I’m broken. My brokenness is what He died for and sacrificed for. It’s part of the greater story. I kept learning about Jesus on Sundays, but personally, I started really struggling. I felt the weight of being a mom and a wife, working

MAGGIE’S EXPERIENCE ON THE SANKOFA GO!TRIP

On the Sankofa trip two Christians—one black person and one white person—are paired up on a bus trip through the American South. I was super nervous about going on this trip—I didn’t want to say or do the wrong thing. It was the most humbling experience I’ve ever had, and it was life-changing. Dee always said that the trip is not about guilt but about learning, pushing through tough conversations, and still showing up. I learned that the storyline from slavery to today has not changed that much. It might look different, but the narrative still exists. This trip helped all participants to open our eyes to one another in raw, humbling, and ultimately reconciliatory ways.

The next Sankofa Go!Trip is March 16-19 (workshop day is March 2). Sign up by December 15 at cpconline.org/serve/far.

full-time, and trying to figure out, Who am I? What do I want our family to be? For the first time I prayed for help. It was so obvious how God came into my life in very real ways from that point on (and looking back, I recognize all the other times He was trying to reach me, as well). I began to job-share, and as the girls started to get more independent, I thought, Gosh, I have this extra time now. How can I be a better servant? I used to think if I didn’t know the Bible in and out, I couldn’t be a good disciple. But when I attended CPC’s Pursuit class, I learned that all His followers can serve, and I felt particularly called to the areas of justice, compassion, and reconciliation. I started volunteering with local missions opportunities, so of course I got to know Dee McIntosh (former Pastor of Local Missions). She later invited me to the Justice Conference and the Sankofa Go!Trip. Now, I grew up in a predominately white community, I live in Edina, and I work at Target. For the first time in my life, I started challenging myself to recognize my own cultural context in order to gain a deeper understanding of others. Because of my involvement in CPC missions, my relationship with Dee has become so multi-faceted. Two years ago I’m sure she was like, “Who is this girl?” But she’s become my spiritual mentor, my friend, my pastor. When Dee told me about starting Lighthouse Church, I wanted to support her with my skills in communications and marketing. When I look forward, I’m excited to think what CPC and Lighthouse can do together. Years ago I was in a small group, and I remember a woman saying it wasn’t quite the right group for her anymore because she needed new challenges in her faith. And I remember not understanding that at all—This is such a fun group! I thought. But now, I’m starting to realize that the more deliberate and disciplined you are—learning about Jesus and growing in faith and developing honest relationships—the further you go. —Maggie McCracken CPC LIFE

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CPC Staff Shares Ideas of How to Savor Advent

As you receive Christmas cards, use one mealtime each day to pray for the people those cards represent. Heather Hood, Worship

Print a list of the prophecies fulfilled by Jesus’ birth. In the Bible, look up one each day of Advent, and consider how truly miraculous His birth was.

Make a birthday cake for Jesus on Christmas Eve, and celebrate! Shandra Prowell, Worship

Jordyn Farris, Kids’ Ministries

My husband and I have attended the incredible Christmas concert at Gustavus Adolphus College each December, similar to those held at many area liberal arts schools. We also attended a beautiful Christmas concert at the Basilica last year—moving both because of the music and spectacular venue (and it was free!). Mary Allen, Care

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Turn off all the lights but the Christmas tree and read the Christmas story from the Bible or a children’s book. Cathy Wood, Connections

For those who want to do something with their family, ring Salvation Army bells! Sign up at registertoring.com. Leslie Boie, Missions

Before opening your first presents on Christmas Eve, read the story of Jesus’ birth. Kids will learn that Jesus is the most important part of Christmas. Trevor Tinsley, Student Ministries

We live with such abundance that Laura and I went with the Wise Men tradition, and our girls received only three gifts each. Another idea is giving a family gift toward the least/ lost/left behind in the name of the baby Refugee-King. John Crosby, Senior Pastor

Listen to the whole recording of Handel’s “Messiah” and really take in the words. The first section tells of His birth and the role the angels and shepherds played. The second section tells of His death and resurrection and ends with the Hallelujah Chorus. The third section tells of the victory we all have through faith in Jesus. I listen to my recording the first weekend of Advent while I make my spritz cookies! Jane Nienaber, Worship

Watch A Charlie Brown Christmas with your kids. Discuss Linus’s reading from the Bible (“That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.”). Jennifer Boardman, Communications

Bundle up and take a walk (without your phone), breathing in the crisp air. Take a few moments of silence, simply being present with Emmanuel, God with us. Mycah Burns, Student Ministries

Turn on some Christmas music and write out your holiday cards. Take extra time to write a special note to friends and family you don’t see often. Pray for each family as you address their card. Jennifer Karlen, Pathway

Some ideas for your Advent reading: Touching Wonder by John Blase; Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas or Stories Behind the Great Traditions of Christmas by Ace Collins; In the Days of the Angels by Walter Wangerin, Jr.

On a clear night, go for a walk and watch the stars. Think about the star that appeared at Jesus’ birth and marked where He laid. Wonder at the gift of God’s coming to earth, the light in the midst of darkness. “After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.” (Matthew 2:9-10) Melissa Schaser, Care

Dan Anderson, retired Care

CPC LIFE

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HAPPENINGS E VENTS ADVENT/CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS

Due in the office by Monday, December 5 To donate toward CPC’s beautiful poinsettias and greens in memory or in honor of someone, fill out a form in the CPC office, the Welcome Center, or at cpconline.org/events. Cost: $15/plant.

CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL SERVICE

Tuesday, December 6 • 7:00PM • Sanctuary Begin Advent with a time to honor those you have lost over the years and set our hearts on the coming Messiah. Dessert follows in the Great Room.

MID-MONTH CHAPEL SERVICE

Wednesday, December 21 • 12:00PM A traditional service with a short message, hymns, Communion, and prayers. Lunch follows. No reservation necessary.

CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP TIMES

Saturday, December 24 • 2:00, 3:30, 5:00, 7:00, 9:00, & 11:00PM See back page for details.

CHRISTMAS DAY WORSHIP

Sunday, December 25 • 10:00AM Welcome the Christ Child with worship on Christmas Day, including the Sacrament of Holy Baptism and carol singing. John Crosby preaches.

NEW YEAR’S EVE & DAY WORSHIP

Contemporary Worship: Saturday, December 31 • 5:15PM Traditional Worship: Sunday, January 1 • 10:00AM Celebrate the turning of the year with worship at CPC. Laura Crosby preaches.

SAVE THE DATE: WELCOME TO CPC GATHERING Sunday, January 15 • 10:30AM & 12:00PM • Fireside Room Learn more about our church, staff, and programs.

5TH & 6TH GRADE: SOAR, SCORE, & SLURP!

Thursday, December 8 • 6:00-8:00PM • AirMaxx, Eden Prairie Jump on trampolines, zap friends in laser tag, escape into cosmic mini golf, and get to know CPC’s new Upper Elementary Associate Director, Stanton Petersen. Cost: $9, includes pizza and a drink. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

KIDS, BE PART OF A CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE!

Mandatory Rehearsal: Tuesday, December 20 from 6:30-7:30PM OR Thursday, December 22 from 5:30-6:30PM Worship Services: Saturday, December 24 • 2:00, 3:30, & 5:00PM Kids’ Ministries presents a retelling of the Christmas Story at the All-Generations Christmas Eve Services. We need kids ages 5-11 to participate in one tammym@cpconline.org of three services. Sign up: (indicate which rehearsal and service)

PROGRAMS WEEKEND PROGRAMS

During Sunday 9:30AM, 11:00AM, & 5:00PM services We minister to kids and their families by engaging kids in their relationship with Jesus. Sign up: cpconline.org/kids

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS: THE JUNCTION

Wednesdays • 5:00-7:30PM • November 30 (Family Advent Service) through December 14 (programs resume January 11) Where K-6th graders learn more about God and live out their faith through music, friendship, reading the Bible, and connection with leaders: • Dinner (5:00-6:15PM) – available to all for a small fee • Choirs (5:45-6:30PM) – K-6th grades (NEW THIS YEAR: 6th grade choir option) • Club (6:30-7:30PM) – 1st-6th grades Cost: $30/first child, $20/second child, $10/third child; max $60/family. Sign up: cpconline.org/kids

CHOIR PERFORMANCES

KIDS EVENTS

Sunday, December 4: Children’s Choir (K-1st) in Sunday 11:00AM worship Saturday/Sunday, December 10/11: Children’s Choir (2nd-6th) in 5:15PM (Saturday) and 9:30, 11:00AM (Sunday) worship

FAMILY ADVENT SERVICE

Wednesday, November 30 • 6:30-7:30PM • Sanctuary 1st-12th graders and their parents are invited to celebrate the beginning of Advent together! This engaging evening focuses on the love, hope, peace, and joy of the season. This experience replaces regular Wednesday night programming (Choir still runs from 5:45-6:30PM).

A VERY MINI CHRISTMAS

Sunday, December 4 • 3:30-5:00PM • CPC Geared for kids ages 2 through kindergarten and their families, this is a time to get into the Christmas spirit! Create an Advent wreath, decorate cookies, and enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Sign up: tammym@cpconline.org (give number of adults and kids attending)

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S TUDENTS FAMILY ADVENT SERVICE

Wednesday, November 30 • 6:30-7:30PM • Sanctuary See event in Kids’ section.

MISSION CHICAGO

December 27-31 Mission Chicago is an opportunity for students in 9th-12th grades to spend time serving, loving, and hearing stories of God’s people in need. Students rave about this annual service-learning trip to Chicago! Sign up: cpconline.org/students

CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515 ELEVATE & COMMITMENT CLASS ELEVATE & CC WEDNESDAY NIGHTS

Wednesdays, December 7, 14, & 21 • 6:15-7:30PM No programs December 28 or January 4 A night of fun, large-group learning and small-group discussion for 7th-8th graders (Elevate) and 9th graders (Commitment Class). Please make sure your student is registered if they plan to attend this year. vanc@cpconline.org lexis@cpconline.org

HSM HSM HOUSE GROUPS

Wednesdays, December 7, 14, & 21 • 8:00-9:15PM No programs December 28 or January 4 mycahb@cpconline.org House groups meet in area homes.

SPECIAL NEEDS TAPESTRY

Tuesdays, December 6 & 20 • 6:30-7:30PM • The Chapel 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. erind@cpconline.org vanc@cpconline.org

MOSAIC WORSHIP SERVICE

Sunday, December 18 • 5:00PM • The Chapel 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! Dinner is provided following worship for a time of fellowship and food. erind@cpconline.org vanc@cpconline.org

ADULTS EVENTS WOMEN’S CHRISTMAS BRUNCH

Saturday, December 3 • 9:00-11:00AM • Fellowship Hall Savor delicious food, inspiring music, and hear from Melissa Schaser, CPC’s new Care Pastor, who shares about Mary, Jesus, and the power of God with us. Enjoy a faith story shared by CPCer Rachel Schwandt and seasonal music by Sara Lightbody and Becky Waters. Gathering music features a string trio with Greta, Audrey, and Fiona Long. Sign up by December 1: cpconline.org/events

NESTERS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION ( active retired age)

Saturday, December 10 • 6:30PM • Fellowship Hall Celebrate Christmas with Nesters! Dinner followed by a performance with the Edina High School Chamber Singers. Cost: $25. debc@cpconline.org Sign up by December 4:

STUDIES WOMEN IN THE WORD

Mondays starting January 9 • 9:30-11:30AM • Fireside Room This winter we study When Life is Hard by James MacDonald. You will discover principles for responding to trials in a way that submits to God’s work in your life and seeks to glorify Him. You will also learn how to tap into the spiritual resources God provides to help you face your trials. Includes DVD teaching, small group conversation, fellowship, and prayer. Cost: $15. Childcare: $50/semester. Sign up: cpconline.org/studies

ESSENTIALS 101

Wednesdays starting January 11 • 6:25-7:30PM • Room 202 The Bible is God’s story—an epic narrative about His desire for a relationship with you. Discover how the story started, where it’s going, and how you can find your place in it! Led by Dave and Laura Scherf. Cost: $10. Sign up: cpconline.org/studies

IN THE WORD

Mondays • 9:30-11:30AM • Room 107 OR Tuesdays • 6:30-8:00PM • Room 116 James Madsen leads this intergenerational discussion-oriented study on Matthew for men and women. We explore how the message of Matthew speaks particularly to our need for a Savior and a King and how to apply the Gospel message to our daily life. Monday childcare: $50/semester. Sign up: cpconline.org/studies

GROUPS SINGLE PARENT FAMILY MINISTRY

Thursday, December 15 • 6:00-8:00PM • Anderson Hall In this community for single parents and their children, we share a family meal, then the adults break off to hear a speaker on topics that encourage sarahn@cpconline.org single parents. Childcare provided. No cost.

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. •C ATALYST (young married couples) Study of James by Francis Chan (9:30AM – Room 10 North) •M IXED TAPES (primarily 30s) The Gospel of Mark (9:30AM - Fellowship Hall West) •S .A.L.T. (40s & 50s) “The Good Life: Romans 12 & 13” with Randy Andersen (9:30AM - Fellowship Hall East) •A .C.T.S. (late 50s & 60s) “Acts: The Beloved Community” with Melissa Schaser (9:20AM - Fellowship Hall Center) •M ORE (Active Retired) “The Spiritual Life of Jesus: Five Streams of Christian Living” with Alan Johnson (10:45AM - Room 107) • CREDO (Intergenerational) “Provisions of Christ” with James Madsen (10:45AM - Room 10 South)

NEW! MIXED ADULT GROUP 50s AND UP

Wednesdays twice a month • 7:00-8:30PM Dean and Kristi Brown lead this new small group meeting in the Linden Hills neighborhood to share life together through prayer, study, and fellowship. We begin with John Ortberg’s Soul Keeping. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups CPC LIFE

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HAPPENINGS

COUPLES

NEW! MIXED ADULT GROUP INTERGENERATIONAL

Twice a month • 7:00-8:30PM Join this new small group meeting in the North Lakeville/Apple Valley area. Led by Jerry and Jane Sundberg, this group gathers to dig into God’s word debc@cpconline.org and pray together. Day of the week TBD.

MEN

COUPLES’ GROUPS

NEW! 20s-30s Without Kids This new group will gather twice a month. Day of the week TBD. NEW! 30s-40s This new group will gather twice a month. Day of the week TBD. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups

MORNING MEN’S GROUPS

OLDER ADULTS

Several existing men’s small groups welcome new participants. See a complete listing online. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups

EDYNAMOES

THE DADS’ GROUP

Wednesdays • 6:25-7:30PM • Parlor The Dads’ Group is for Christian dads who want to become better husbands, dads, and men. Led by Allen Pofahl and Tom Wagner, this group meets whenever there is Wednesday night programming for kids and students. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups

WOMEN

CIRCLES (women 60+)

NEEDLEWORK GUILD

Saturday, December 10 • 10:00AM-2:00PM • Room 10 Our mission is to make warm garments and blankets for local agencies that serve the needy. We have yarn, fabric, and knitters to get you started. Sally Stoutenburgh at 952.927.6915

MOM’S MORNING (for moms of young children)

LARGE GROUP Wednesdays, December 14 • 9:30-11:30AM Join other moms for fellowship and inspirational speakers. This month enjoy a Christmas brunch with Jeremiah and Vanessa Gamble presenting “A Misfit Christmas” and kids singing. Cost: $50/year; $60/child for childcare. Sign up: cpconline.org/events SMALL GROUPS Meets 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wednesdays • 9:30-11:30AM Groups allow you to develop relationships through Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and Christ-centered support. Childcare cost: $60/child. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

MOMS IN THE MIDDLE (for moms of tweens and teens)

LARGE GROUP Thursday, December 15 • 9:30-11:30AM • Anderson Hall Join us to hear Matt Moberg and his mom, Tami, talk about prioritizing honesty in parenting while creating a culture of transparency. Matt is the Director of The Table at CPC and Tami is the Director of the Quincy TreeHouse. Cost: $5 at the door. Bring a friend! SMALL GROUP Thursdays twice a month • 9:30AM Small groups meet twice a month and provide in-depth connection, support, and study. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups

EVENING MOM’S GROUP

2nd Thursdays • 7:00-8:30PM • Room 200 Join with other moms in this group to connect and grow together in faith. Geared toward moms with young kids up through high school. Led by Erin Wendorf, we study Lisa Harper’s The Gospel of Mark: The Jesus We’re Aching For. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups

ADVENT 2016

Wednesday, December 7 • 11:30AM • Fellowship Hall Come share Christmas blessings with us at a holiday luncheon and program performed by the Trillium Flute Choir, under the leadership of Julie Amen, a CPC member. This group looks forward to sharing with us their classical and contemporary flute music of this holy season. Please bring Jerry’s cash receipts and pop/can tabs for collection and donation. We will also collect toys/checks/cash for VEAP for children’s gifts. Cost: $5. Sign up by December 4: Cleo Wedge at 952.922.2769

CPC LIFE

Circles combine fellowship, learning, and service in a small group setting. Guests and new members always welcome! ESTHER CIRCLE Thursday, December 1 • 10:00AM • nearby home All women are welcome to join us for Bible study and fellowship. shellienw@gmail.com LYDIA CIRCLE Friday, December 16 • 11:00AM • Parlor We gather to share Christmas memories. Ellen Hastings at 952.896.0066 MARTHA CIRCLE Wednesday, December 21 • 10:00AM • Parlor Come celebrate with Christmas memories, devotions, and treats. Worship together at the Mid-Month Chapel service with lunch following in the Fireside Room. 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

C ARE ABUNDANTLY SATISFIED

Sundays, December 4 & 18 • 9:30-10:30AM • Room 203 • meets 1st & 3rd Sundays We support each other with weight issues that keep us from experiencing the abundant life God wants for us. No weigh-ins; lots of grace and support! sandy_radeke@earthlink.net

NEW BEGINNINGS

New Beginnings is CPC’s support, resource, and friendship community for those dealing with the practical issues that follow a spouse’s death.

HAPPENINGS

Tuesday, December 6 • 5:00PM • local restaurant Join us for dinner at a nearby restaurant and then gather at CPC to attend the Candlelight Memorial Service at 7:00PM. Saturday, December 17 • 9:00-11:00AM • Anderson Hall Join us for our Third Saturday Touch Base Breakfast with made-to-order omelets and a time to exchange white elephant gifts. Cost: $10. debc@cpconline.org Sign up:

ALZHEIMER’S EDUCATION SERIES

Thursday, December 8 • 6:30-8:00PM • Anderson Hall • meets 2nd Thursday of the month through February A series for care partners and those with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. This month is “Trends in Alzheimer’s and Dementia Research” with Debbie Richman, VP Education and Outreach of Alzheimer’s Association MN-ND. marya@cpconline.org

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

VOLUNTEER AT URBAN VENTURES’ CITYKID ENTERPRISES POP-UP STORE

Saturday, December 3 • 10:00AM-2:00PM Work alongside Urban Venture’s CityKid Enterprise participants to help with their holiday store! A wide array of CityKid items will be available for sale including coffee, clothing, bee products, food, and more. Volunteers are needed on Friday to set up and on Saturday to assist shoppers and clean up. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

SOURCE ANTI-TRAFFICKING

Training & Testimony: Tuesday, December 6 • 7:00-8:30PM Prayer Breakfast: Saturday, December 17 • 9:00-10:00AM Get to know CPC’s local anti-trafficking mission partner, Source Anti-Trafficking, at their monthly Prayer Breakfasts or Training & Testimony nights. Both events are located at 2609 Stevens Ave, Minneapolis. Sign up: sourcemn.org/events

Saturday, December 10 • 10:00AM-12:00PM • Room 200 • usually meets 2nd Friday & 4th Saturday of the month (no December 24 meeting) The goal of our ministry is to knit or crochet shawls made with the hope of being vessels for God’s presence and comfort. You don’t need knitting experience; all are welcome! Coaching and materials can be provided. Pat Johnson at 952.270.1434

BLOOMINGTON LOAVES & FISHES

GRACE & HOPE FOR OUR CHILDREN

FAMILIES MOVING FORWARD

Tuesday, December 20 • 7:00-8:30PM • Parlor • 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 dbrown@dcbrowninc.com speakers.

Friday, December 16 • Prep: 2:00-4:00PM; Serve: 5:00-7:00PM • Creekside Community Center • 3rd Friday of the month Volunteers age 15+ are welcome to prepare and serve a meal with our Bloomington friends. Sign up for one or both slots: cpconline.org/events

January 1-8 Walk alongside families experiencing homelessness during their stay at CPC. Help provide meals, hospitality, evening activities, or set-up/clean-up. Sign up: cpconline.org/serve/near

FAR

LGBTQ FAMILY GROUP

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

SERVE SAVE THE DATES! THE PLUNGE (A THREE-PART SERIES)

We will feature three different local partners with the primary goal of building our own cultural competency. cpconline.org/serve/near • January 14: Source Anti-Trafficking • March 25: Urban Homeworks • May 20: Urban Ventures

NEAR THE JOY OF GIVING

Donate to our Joy of Giving Christmas campaign! We partner with the Plymouth Christian Youth Center in North Minneapolis to provide gifts for people of all ages at their Christmas store. More than 300 volunteers 16+ and 4,000 gifts are needed. • Gift suggestion cards available now • Gift collection through December 5 • Volunteer on sale day: December 10 from 8:45-11:45AM or 11:15AM-2:00PM Limited shuttle bus service on December 10 is available (RSVP to annie.michel23@gmail.com). Sign up: cpconline.org/serve/near

CATADUPA, JAMAICA WITH HIGH SCHOOL MINISTRIES March 26-April 1, 2017 Join other high school students on this trip of transformation: • Learn about the unique culture and customs of Jamaica • See the side of Jamaica seldom seen in vacation brochures •L earn how Jamaican Christians are addressing the needs of their community • Be forever changed! Trip Leaders: Pattie Juarez, World Servants Caribbean Specialist, and CPC staff. Cost: $995 per person (plus airfare ~$700). Sign up by December 15: cpconline.org/serve/far

2017 GO!TRIPS

If you have an interest in a particular trip but are unsure of your participation, please let us know so we can keep you in the loop! This helps us to gauge interest in the trip, prevent cancellations, and communicate trip information for your thoughtful prayer and discernment. leslieb@cpconline.org •S ankofa Journey of Reconciliation to the American South: March 2 (required workshop); trip is from March 16-19; sign up by December 15 • Israel Palestine with Yohanna and Dina Katanacho: April 23-May 1 • Nicaragua with Opportunity International: June 19-24 • Israel Palestine with The Telos Group: October 17-27

CPC LIFE

| ADVENT

Attention CPC College Students!

We love our college internship program, and we’d love for you to work with us! College interns help plan and lead all summer events for Kids’ and Student Ministries.

Find applications at cpconline.org/college. Interviews are over Christmas break.

Deacons in the holiday spirit!

Contact: Laura Mulliken at 612.408.2842

Every year CPC and St. Pat’s team up for a relaxing, fun-filled college retreat at Grand View Lodge. Come with us January 3-5 for boot hockey, games, hanging out, and hearing a speaker.

Kids’ choir leads worship.

Teens at the Commitment Classs retreat.

Glennon Doyle Melton speaks at CPC Women Who Inspire.

The Great Room bustles in preparation of the Joy of Giving.

Annual

CANDLELIGHT

Bring Joy this Christmas!

BE PART OF CPC’S

MEMORIAL SERVICE

Begin Advent with a time to honor those you have lost over the years and set our hearts on the coming Messiah. Dessert follows in the Great Room.

Tuesday, December 6 7:00PM • Sanctuary

CPCers are needed to provide gifts for people of all ages at Plymouth Christian Youth Center’s Christmas Store in North Minneapolis. How you can help: • Hand in your gifts through December 5 in the Great Room • Work the day of the sale, December 10

Saturday, December 3 • 9:00-11:00AM • Fellowship Hall Gather with women of CPC and their friends for a Christmas celebration! Savor delicious food, inspiring music, and hear from Melissa Schaser, CPC’s new Congregational Care Pastor, who shares about Mary, Jesus, and the power of God with us.

BIRTHS

RECENTLY HOSPITALIZED

Liz Stadum and Luke Johnson were married on August 13.

Bruce Armstrong Mary Alice Craig Judy Fetterly Dan Johnson Jean Knowles Dave Love

Julia Christine Rozman and Casey Bennett Duhaime were married on October 15. Brooke Toftoy, Licensed Minister, officiated.

STAFF TRANSITIONS

Matthew and Erica Forsman welcomed a daughter, Olivia Audrey, on October 2.

MARRIAGES

DEATHS

Sharon Howes passed away on October 14 at the age of 77. Pastor Debbie Manning officiated her service. She is the wife of Ken Howes and the mother of Leslie Howes. Roland Danielson passed away on October 14 at the age of 84. He is the father of Scott Danielson and the brother of Dean Danielson. Canny Wright passed away on October 19 at the age of 82. Her daughter is Cathy Wood. The Rev. Jody Phenow officiated her service. Lorraine Soldo passed away on November 1 at the age of 88. Her granddaughter is Lexi Skoog, CPC’s Director of Commitment Class. Robert and Janice Fundingsland passed away within just a few weeks of each other on September 19 and October 3. Their daughter is Sue Varecka. Joey Poehler passed away on October 24 at the age of 85. She is the mother of Julie Eide. Pastor Debbie Manning officiated her service. Mary Dvorak passed away on October 26 at the age of 90. She is the mother of Paul Dvorak. Mae Stone Martin passed away on July 17 at the age of 95.

Laurie Neff Sandy Phillips Paula Uvodich Bruce Vetsch Michael VonSmith

Heather Augdahl joins as Associate Director of Early Childhood. Frank Uvodich retires as Director of Building and Grounds after twenty-four years at CPC. We thank Frank for his tireless service to keep CPC beautifully run and maintained. In his retirement, Frank is looking forward to extra time at the lake in the summers, volunteering at VEAP, continuing his Thursday morning ARMS (Active Retired Men Serving) leadership at CPC, and finishing up some house projects and yard work. When asked what he’ll miss most about his job, Frank says, “Of course it’s the people—staff and so many other folks. I know a lot of people and a lot of people know me. It just feels good to be known. I’m not leaving CPC—it’s ingrained in me!” Well done, good and faithful servant!

FINANCIAL UPDATE

June 1–October 31, 2016 Ministry Offering Budget: $1,624,006.42 Actual Offering: $1,434,186.17 Variance: ($189,820.25) YTD Mission Focus Total: $75,790.41 Expenses are under budget year-to-date.

Richard A. Grant, Sr. passed away on November 6. The Rev. Melissa Schaser officiated his service.

Now Accepting Elder & Deacon Nominations!

• E LDERS work with staff to discern God’s plan for CPC, leading and directing the church in areas of resources, personnel, and governance. • DEACONS seek to be the hands and feet of Jesus in our community.

Put your nomination in the boxes in CPC’s office and Welcome Center. Elder Contacts: Kathie Froemming (kathief427@aol.com) OR Rachel Schwandt (rachschwandt@gmail.com) Deacon Contact: Debbie Ducar (debbied@cpconline.org)

Christmas marks a time of wonder. We experience it in twinkling lights, children’s faces, glorious song, and still, snowy nights. But followers of Jesus also celebrate the wonder of long-ago promises fulfilled, miracles performed, hope restored. This Advent we take refuge from holiday busyness to ponder anew the wonder of God’s faithfulness in Jesus’ birth. W E E K LY WO R S H I P

Saturdays at 5:15PM | Contemporary Worship Sundays at 9:30AM | Traditional Worship Sundays at 11:00AM | Contemporary Worship Sundays at 5:00PM | The Table at CPC

CH R I S TM A S E V E

All-Generations Services: 2:00, 3:30, & 5:00PM (Childcare available for 6 weeks to 2 years) Traditional Communion Service: 7:00PM (Childcare available for 6 weeks to 2 years) Traditional Lessons & Carols Service (with choir): 9:00PM (No childcare available) The Table at CPC Service: 11:00PM (No childcare available) CH R I S TM A S DAY

10:00AM (No childcare or kids programming) Christ Presbyterian Church

952.920.8515

cpconline.org

facebook.com/cpconline

@CPCEdina