So the Word became human and made his home among us. —JOHN 1:14 (NLT)
hen Moses stood on the mountain overlooking the Promised Land—knowing he would never enter it himself—was he looking for Jesus?
“God with us” (Isaiah 7:14). This child is how God intended to do what He had been promising for so long.
Of course not. But he was looking for the fulfillment of a longawaited promise: that God’s people would have a home in which to dwell—where God would be with them, protect them, and provide for them. Yet given their tendency to wander and
Jesus was not what the Jews expected. He did not come in power or might, but in humility. God had been saying since the days of Moses that the people didn’t need a new political or military leader, they needed Emmanuel, the presence of God with them.
knowing the land was already inhabited, Moses was left wrestling with the question, “How is God going to do what He promised to do?”
When Moses looked at the Promised Land, dreaming of a day when people could dwell with God without hindrance, he was looking for Jesus.
Hundreds of years later, another Jewish leader, Isaiah, had visions of a future where God would be with His people, providing hope and healing. Just like Moses, Isaiah saw the brokenness and selfdestruction of the Jewish people and wrestled with the question, “How is God going to do what He promised to do?”
When Isaiah foretold a future when God’s people would stop striving for control and simply let God lead them, he was looking for Jesus.
Still hundreds of years after that, the Jews lived in quiet desperation under the heel of Rome. They were technically living in the Promised Land, but with a series of exiles and political upheavals, they had a hard time believing that God was still with them. They wondered, “How is God going to do what He promised to do?” Into this history a Jewish baby was born in Bethlehem, fulfilling a promise told by Isaiah—that the child would be Emmanuel, or
When the Jews were wondering how God would deliver them from the oppression of the Roman empire, they were looking for Jesus. They just didn’t know it. This Advent season, may we experience what the Gospel of John tells us—that in His birth, Jesus has moved into the neighborhood (John 1:14, The Message). He is what Moses was looking for, He is what Isaiah foretold, He is “God with us.”
P E T E Y C R O W D E R serves as P A S T O R of A D U L T M I N I S T R I E S .
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2017 his year our offering benefits local partner Urban Homeworks and builds our new Crisis Relief Fund. Mark your check “MISSION OF THE MONTH” to give.
URBAN HOMEWORKS + CRISIS RELIEF FUND
URBAN HOMEWORKS Rebuilding Neighborhoods, Reconnecting People, Reclaiming Hope
THE REALITY OF HOUSING IN MINNESOTA: •M ore than 1 in 4 Minnesota households pay more than they can afford for housing, spending more than 30% of their income • Median rent has risen 9% since 2000, while median renter income has fallen 11% •A verage price for a 2-bedroom apartment in the metro area: $1,086 • Base income to afford a 2-bedroom: $43,440 • Minimum-wage worker in the Twin Cities will need to work 88 hours per week to pay rent for a
2-bedroom apartment Urban Homeworks is shifting their focus from single-family housing to creating affordable rental units to help combat the housing crisis occurring in the Twin Cities and across the nation. Your gift will empower UHW to purchase and renovate apartments that give safe, stable housing to those in need. Because when people have stable housing, it fosters hope—and they become change agents for their families, their communities, and their city.
NEW! CRISIS RELIEF FUND CPC is beginning a new initiative to allow our church to respond immediately to unexpected crises within our state, nation, and world. This fall we witnessed a series of catastrophic events: hurricanes, fires, refugee crises. And many in our congregation asked the question of how to give in meaningful and effective ways. We want to take the generosity of this congregation to fuel a fund that will respond to needs in the name of Jesus. So whether it is $10,000 for a huge local fire or a $50,000 donation toward an international event—we want to be ready to help like the Good Samaritan.
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The holiday season offers unique opportunities to serve and bless others! Look below for ideas of ways to serve, shop for a cause, and invite others to CPC this holiday season.
S E RV E
S H OP FOR A CAUSE
BLOOMINGTON LOAVES & FISHES
GIFT CATALOGS Benefit others and honor your loved ones this year with catalogs from our partners:
Prepare and serve a meal to those in need. Ages 15 and up. An excellent activity for families, small groups, and neighbors! Sign up for one or both time slots: CPCONLINE.ORG/EVENTS.
WORLD VISION • Spread joy to families in need
Friday, December 15 • Prep: 2:00-4:00PM; Serve: 5:00-7:00PM • Creekside Community Center
FAMILIES MOVING FORWARD
DONATE.WORLDVISION.ORG/GIFTCATALOG INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE MISSION • Give the gift of freedom to trafficking survivors • GIFTS.IJM.ORG
December 24-31
OPPORTUNITY INTERNATIONAL • Empower small business owners • US.OPPORTUNITY.ORG/GIFTCARD
Give time to families experiencing homelessness at Christmastime during their stay at CPC. Volunteers needed for various tasks including setup/clean-up, meal prep, overnight hosting, and more. Sign up: CPCONLINE.ORG/EVENTS.
URBAN VENTURES CITYKID HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE
VEAP (VOLUNTEERS ENLISTED TO ASSIST PEOPLE)
Complete your Christmas shopping at this pop-up marketplace featuring local and socially-minded businesses.
Saturday, December 9 • 10:00AM-2:00PM • 3016 4th Avenue South, Minneapolis
Stock the VEAP pantry by organizing a food drive with your neighbors or coworkers. Or sign up to volunteer at VEAP: VEAP.ORG.
I NVI T E OT H ERS TO CPC SIMPLE GIFTS CHRISTMASTIDE CONCERT Saturday, December 16 • 7:30PM • CPC
An easy invitation to coworkers or neighbors! More details on the back cover.
*Plans for a new Joy of Giving partnership did not solidify for this Christmas season. Stay tuned for new developments in 2018!
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A N E X E R C I S E in T R U S T
M
y tendency is to be a person who wants to be positive and see God’s movement in my life. But for years there was a struggle in my marriage, and I went through a long period of praying and waiting on God . . . and not getting the answer I asked for. I was pretty determined that my marriage wasn’t going to fall apart— for my kids, especially. My prayer at that time was essentially telling God what I thought I needed. This time of waiting wasn’t passive, though; we worked so hard to salvage things and find healing. I had the mentality that if we could just pull ourselves up by the bootstraps, things would get better . . . but then things would start falling apart again. Eventually my prayer changed to asking God to align my will with His will. Never in a million years did I think God’s will would be for my marriage to end, but when I came to that point of knowing there was not going to be healing, I felt such an incredible sense of peace. It was so not of me, because who feels peace knowing their marriage is over? But I did. Now my time of waiting is living in the “Now what?” I’m trying not to rush ahead and am choosing to trust Him, though I don’t have any idea where He’s going to lead. I tend to see the glass half-full, but there is a measure of disappointment with God, of questioning, “Why am I having to begin life anew? This isn’t what I signed up for.” But I’m trying to live in the AND: I can have joy knowing God has a good future and something new for me AND I can be disappointed with God and say “I don’t understand why this is what I got.” I’ve been so blessed with such amazing, loving people in my life, walking with me, affirming that God is present in my story. But there is risk in people not understanding why this would be the end result. There are people who don’t know me, but knowing this about me, may judge my faith. That’s hard, but I can’t control that. I have to rest in what I know God says about me and not what others might think. God has worked in every little bit of my life. He’s brought me closer to Him and helped me understand who I am as His creation. When things are stripped away, it brings you more to who you really are. I’m not a wife anymore, so who am I? I’ve had to rely on my identity in Christ. A friend shared the idea of the lamp from Psalm 119: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” I’m using that as an actual image in my mind’s eye: the Lord’s going to bring me to that next step. Another amazing scripture that’s been encouraging me in this season is Jeremiah 6:16: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” I feel like my life is at a crossroads: I’ve been looking, asking questions, and am now stepping out in faith.
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M I C H E L L E D U R R E T T has been a M E M B E R O F C P C for 1 9 Y E A R S & is the M A N A G E R of P A T H W A Y B O O K S.
HAPPENINGS CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515
EVENTS CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL SERVICE Tuesday, December 5 • 7:00PM • Sanctuary See details on page 13.
ADVENT/CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS
Due in the office by Thursday, December 7 To donate toward CPC’s beautiful poinsettias and greens in memory or in honor of someone, fill out a form in the office, the Connections Center, or at cpconline.org/events. Suggested donation: $15/plant.
SIMPLE GIFTS CONCERT
Saturday, December 16 • doors open 7:00PM, concert 7:30PM Simple Gifts returns on their Christmastide tour. Featuring violin, Celtic whistle, bagpipes, and piano, Simple Gifts brings a modern, Old-World sound to traditional Christmas carols and hymns. Cost: $25/adult, $15/ student or senior ($30/$20 at the door). Purchase tickets at Pathway Books or: cpconline.org/events
MID-MONTH CHAPEL SERVICE
Wednesday, December 20 • 12:00PM • Chapel A traditional service with a short message by Melissa Schaser, hymns, Communion, and prayers. Lunch follows.
CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP
Saturday, December 23 and Sunday, December 24 See details on back page.
NEW YEAR’S WORSHIP
Saturday, December 30 • 5:15PM Sunday, December 31 • 9:30 & 11:00AM Celebrate the turning of the year with worship at CPC. Jake Kirchner preaches.
MEET GOD ON YOUR MAT: HOLY YOGA
Tuesdays and Thursdays • 5:30-6:30PM Holy Yoga offers connection to Jesus and restoration for the body through Scripture, meditation, and music. Restorative Holy Yoga on Tuesdays with Mary Kay Burns and Holy Yoga Flow on Thursdays with Brooke Toftoy.
SAVE THE DATE: WELCOME TO CPC
FAMILY COMMUNION WORKSHOP
Sunday, January 7 • 12:15PM potluck (Fireside Room-old Room 107); 1:15PM workshop (Anderson Hall) Students and their parents discover both the biblical beginnings and CPC’s tradition of taking Communion. Led by Associate Director of Elementary, Jordyn Farris. Sign up: ccpconline.org/events
WEEKEND PROGRAMS
9:30 & 11:00AM services Inviting kids and their families to follow Jesus, love others, and develop a faith that sticks! Sign up: cpconline.org/kids Saturday 5:15PM service: Childcare provided (6 weeks-3 years) Sundays: Nursery (Infants & Toddlers): Loving care is provided for your child 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 in a large and small group lesson format that includes prayer, art, and worship Elementary Programming (K-5th): 9:30AM Sunday School Hour: Kids go deep into God’s Word in a fun and interactive way. Start the morning in Sunday school OR head to church with families and join class after the Children’s Sermon. Kids are grouped according to grade (K-1, 2-3, 4-5).
11:00AM Kids’ Church: Kids get to play, create, and worship together. Free choice time (art or gym) follows a worship time designed for kids with a dynamic Bible lesson, prayer, and singing. Kids’ Church begins directly after the Children’s Sermon. K-5th grouped together.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT: CHOIR & CLUB
Wednesdays (no programs December 27 or January 3) • 5:15-7:30PM Dinner (5:15-6:30PM): Available to all for a small fee.
Choir for K-5th graders (5:45-6:30PM): Develop a love for music, learn biblical truths, and improve musical and dramatic skills, all while praising God!
Club for 2nd-5th graders (6:30-7:30PM): Connect with leaders and peers as you learn to follow Jesus and love others. Includes a Bible lesson, games, and small groups according to grade and gender (2nd-3rd girls, 2nd-3rd boys, 4th-5th girls, 4th-5th boys). Cost: $30/first child, $20/second child, $10/third child; max $60/family. Sign up: cpconline.org/kids
CHOIR PERFORMANCES
Sunday, December 10: Children’s Choirs (K-5th) in 9:30AM worship
Sunday, January 21 • 10:30AM & 12:00PM Learn more about our church, staff, and programs at these brief sessions.
KIDS CALLING ALL ANGELS, SHEPHERDS, SHEEP, & WISEMEN!
Mandatory Rehearsal: Tuesday, December 19 from 6:30-7:30PM OR Thursday, December 21 from 5:30-6:30PM Worship Services: Saturday, December 23 at 5:15PM and Sunday, December 24 at 9:30 & 11:00AM 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 of three services. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
STUDENTS REGISTRATION
All 6th-12th graders must register in order to participate in Student Ministries programs and small groups. Sign up: cpconline.org/ students/6th-12th-grades
MIDDLE SCHOOL ACCESS
Wednesdays (no programs December 27 or January 3) • 6:30-7:45PM A high-energy, engaging program for 6th graders. Awesome high schoolers CPC LIFE
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HAPPENINGS
lead small groups. Please make sure your student is registered. brooksw@cpconline.org
ELEVATE
Wednesdays (no programs December 27 or January 3) • 6:30-7:45PM 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 programs December 27 or January 3) • 6:30-7:45PM A night of fun, large-group learning and small-group discussion for 9th graders. Please make sure your student is registered. lexis@cpconline.org
TEN12 HOUSE GROUPS
Wednesdays (no programs December 27 or January 3) • 8:00-9:15PM mycahb@cpconline.org No large group in December.
COLLEGE APPLY FOR THE COLLEGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
Application deadline December 15 Spend this summer as an intern at CPC! Read the job description/details and apply at: cpconline.org/college
OASIS RETREAT
Wednesday-Friday, January 3-5 • Grand View Lodge in Nisswa, MN College students, come get away with us! Play boot hockey, hear from a speaker, and hang out. Cost: $120. Sign up: cpconline.org/college
SPECIAL NEEDS TAPESTRY
Tuesdays, December 5 & 12 (Christmas pageant) • 6:30-7:30PM 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
Sunday, December 17 • 12:30PM • Sanctuary Mosaic celebrates that we are all children of God and worship God in our own ways—noises, sounds, and movements welcome! This service led mostly by students with special needs. Lunch provided afterward. sarahn@cpconline.org
MIXED ESSENTIALS 101
Wednesdays, January 10-March 7 • 6:30-7:30PM • Room 200 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. Cost: $10. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
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. •E 3 (millenial couples) Nick Schaser speaks on “Lost in Translation” (9:30AM - Room 302) •C ATALYST Melissa Schaser speaks on “Caring Like Jesus” (9:30AM Fellowship Hall Center) • MIXED TAPES (primarily 30s) (9:30AM - Fellowship Hall West) • S.A.L.T. (40s & 50s) Brad Lien teaches (9:30AM - Fellowship Hall East) •A .C.T.S. (late 50s & 60s) Melissa Schaser speaks on “Caring Like Jesus” (9:20AM - Fellowship Hall Center) •M ORE (Active Retired) Justin Buol speaks on "Early Church History" (10:45AM - Fireside Room - old Room 107) •C REDO (Intergenerational) James Madsen speaks on “Imperfect Disciples” (10:45AM - Fellowship Hall Center)
IN THE WORD
Mondays • 9:30-11:30AM OR Tuesdays • 7:00-8:30PM • Room 116 James Madsen leads this intergenerational discussion-oriented study of Ephesians and Philippians for men and women. Together we connect our everyday lives to the hope and joy found in Christ in lifetransforming ways! Sign up: cpconline.org/classes
SOUL KEEPERS (50s & UP)
Every other Wednesday • 7:00-8:30PM • Linden Hills home Dean and Kristi Brown lead this small group to share life together through prayer, fellowship, and studying Dallas Willard’s The Divine Conspiracy. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups
NEW! 20s & 30s SMALL GROUP
2nd & 4th Thursdays • 7:00-9:00PM • South Minneapolis home All are welcome to join this new small group: singles, couples, men, women, professionals, and students (and any category we forgot to name)! Through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship, we'll navigate life as 20- and 30-somethings while growing in our faith. Led by AnnaLisa and Justin Buol. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups
NEW! 20s-30s COUPLES' GROUP
Thursdays twice a month • 7:00-9:00PM • nearby home You are invited to study Galatians in a brand-new small group for dating/ engaged/young married couples. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups
ADULTS EVENTS WOMEN’S CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
Saturday, December 9 • 9:00-11:00AM • Fellowship Hall Join women of all ages for a Christmas brunch! Savor delicious food, inspiring music, and hear from Dee McIntosh, Pastor of Lighthouse MPLS. Maggie McCracken shares God’s faithfulness in her life. Special music by Sara Lightbody and Ashley Crowder. Cost: $15. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
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MEN THE DADS’ GROUP
Wednesdays • 6:30-7:30PM • Fireside Room (old Room 107) We are Christian dads who want to become better husbands, dads, and men. Led by Allen Pofahl and Tom Wagner, we study A Dad After God’s Own Heart and meet whenever there is Wednesday night programming for kids and students. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups
MORNING MEN’S GROUPS
Several existing men’s small groups welcome new participants. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups
CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515
WOMEN
OLDER ADULTS
NEEDLEWORK GUILD
CIRCLES (women
MOM’S MORNING (for moms of young children)
ESTHER CIRCLE Thursday, December 7 • 10:00AM • in a nearby home All are welcome to join us for Bible study and fellowship. shellienw@gmail.com
Saturday, December 9 • 10:00AM-2:00PM • Fireside Room (old Room 107) 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. Sally Stoutenburgh at 952.927.6915
LARGE GROUP Wednesday, December 13 • 9:30-11:30AM Kyle Jackson, former CPC pastor, speaks on "Wonder of God." Cost: $60/year for Large Group; $55/child (waitlist for childcare). Sign up: cpconline.org/groups 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. Cost: $55/child (waitlist for childcare). trailerfamily@gmail.com Contact Angie Trailer:
LET’S CONNECT
A ministry that seeks to provide women in their middle years a space to live, learn, and serve while growing in Christ. Thursday, December 14 • 6:30PM • Fireside Room (old Room 107) Reach out to bring joy, love, and the light of Christ to older adults in our community. Write Christmas cards to be delivered by Let's Connect volunteers to local seniors. Cards provided, or create or bring your own! cpconline.org/events Thursday, January 11 • 6:30-8:00PM • Anderson Hall Enjoy an evening of fellowship. Kim Kane presents "Living in Gratitude," with humorous and tenderhearted stories. Cost: $10. cpconline.org/events
60+) Circles combine fellowship, learning, and service in a small group setting. Guests and new members always welcome!
LYDIA CIRCLE Friday, December 15 • 9:30AM • Anderson Hall Share Christmas memories. Visitors welcome! Ellen Hastings at 952.896.0066 MARTHA CIRCLE Wednesday, December 20 • 10:30AM • Fireside Room (old Room 107) Share Christmas stories, memories, and treats. 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
EDYNAMOES
Wednesday, December 6 • 11:30AM • Fellowship Hall Join us for a holiday lunch! Former CPC Pastor Dan Anderson portrays an old shepherd who tells his story. Cost: $5. Please bring Jerry's cash receipts and pop/can tabs; the VEAP donation for Christmas will be collected. Cleo Wedge at 952.922.2769 Sign up by December 3:
CARE
WOMEN IN THE WORD
Mondays beginning January 8 • 9:30-11:45AM • Anderson Hall Lisa Harper’s Hebrews: The Nearness of King Jesus will help you draw near to the approachable Savior. Seven sessions include DVD teaching, small group conversation, fellowship, and prayer. Cost: $17. Sign up: cpconline.org/classes
MOMS IN THE MIDDLE (for moms of tweens and teens)
LARGE GROUP Thursday, January 18 • 9:30-11:30AM • Anderson Hall Sadie Holland presents “Know the Truth About Minnesota Teen Drug and Alcohol Prevention” and shares personal stories of overcoming addiction. Cost: $5 at the door. cpconline.org/groups SMALL GROUPS Thursdays, December 14 & January 11 • 9:30AM Small groups meet twice a month and provide in-depth connection, support, and study. slaneyhome@gmail.com Contact Kirstin Slaney:
NEW! EVENING MOM’S GROUP
Meets Mondays every three weeks • 7:00-8:30PM • Office Conference Room 2 Connect and grow together in faith with other moms of young kids through elementary age. Led by Nicole Van Heel, we study Parenting with Purpose and Grace. No childcare. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups
GROUPS NEW BEGINNINGS
A support, resource, and friendship community for those dealing with the practical issues that follow a spouse’s death. Tuesday, December 5 • 5:00PM • Good Earth Join us for dinner, then attend the Candlelight Memorial Service at CPC at 7:00PM. Saturday, December 16 • 9:00-11:00AM • Anderson Hall Join us for our Third Saturday Touch Base Breakfast and a time to exchange white elephant gifts. Cost: $10. debc@cpconline.org
GRIEF RECOVERY: SPECIAL EVENT
Tuesday, December 5 • 7:00PM • Sanctuary • usually meets 2nd Tuesdays In lieu of our regular meeting, we attend the Candlelight Memorial Service. debbiem@cpconline.org
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
Friday, December 8 • 10:00AM-12:00PM • nearby home 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 shawl. Newcomers are welcome. Knitting materials and tutoring provided. Pat Johnson at 952.270.1434 CPC LIFE
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HAPPENINGS
ALZHEIMER’S EDUCATION SERIES
Thursday, December 14 • 6:30-8:00PM • Room 116 • meets 2nd Thursdays A series for care partners and those with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Katie Roberg of the Alzheimer’s Association presents on hospital stays and marya@cpconline.org partnering with your doctor.
Israel/Palestine with Rich & Jody Phenow April 20-May 2 Visit holy and historic sites with our hosts Yohanna and Dina Katanacho. This pilgrimage will deepen your faith and your understanding of the challenges facing our friends in the Middle East. Cost (including airfare; subject to change): $3,495
GRACE & HOPE FOR OUR CHILDREN
Tuesday, December 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 dbrown@dcbrowninc.com speakers.
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 rgarton1@msn.com other.
SAVE THE DATE: SINGLE-PARENT FAMILY MINISTRY
Thursday, January 18 • 6:00-8:00PM • Anderson Hall In this community for single parents and their children, we share a family meal, then adults break off to hear a speaker on topics that encourage sarahn@cpconline.org single parents. Childcare provided. No cost.
SERVE HERE
—NOW ACCEPTING—
Elder & Deacon Nominations! ELDERS
Enjoy kids and want to help make faith stick? Kids’ Ministries is looking for tammym@cpconline.org volunteers with varying gifts.
work with staff to discern God’s plan for CPC, leading and directing the church in areas of resources, personnel, and governance.
NEAR
DEACONS
HELP MAKE FAITH STICK!
DECEMBER MISSION OF THE MONTH
URBAN HOMEWORKS AND CPC’S CRISIS RELIEF FUND Mission of the Month (MOM) is a vital source of funding for many of our partners. Read all about December’s recipients on page 4. To contribute, mark your check memo Mission of the Month or give online: cpconline.org/give
HOLIDAY SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES
See details on page 5 for ways to serve together, shop for a cause, and invite others this holiday season. cpconline.org/events
FIGHT HUMAN TRAFFICKING: PURPLE LIGHT PROJECT
Be a beacon of hope to trafficked women through Source MN’s Purple Light info@sourcemn.org. Project. Training provided. Join the fight:
FAR YOU ARE INVITED TO GO!
GO!Trips are short-term trips to witness God’s work in the world. Learn more and sign up: cpconline.org/serve-far Jamaica with TEN12 March 24-30 • students in grades 10-12 Spend Spring Break serving the local Jamaican community. Cost: $1,995 (subject to change). Fundraising available.
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function as the hands and feet of Jesus, serving practically in our community.
Put your nomination in the boxes at the Connections Center or main office. E L D E R C O N TA C T S : Kathie Froemming (kathief427@aol.com) OR Rachel Schwandt (rachschwandt@gmail.com)
D E A C O N C O N TA C T:
Debbie Ducar (debbied@cpconline.org)
BIRTHS
Chris and Lindsey McKenzie welcomed a son, Otto, on October 20.
survived by his wife Donna; first wife Janet Albers; daughter Jennifer (Tom) Harmening; and grandchildren Ben and Savanna Harmening.
Chris and Alicia Goodloe welcomed a daughter, Gwynwth Jane, on November 5.
Lily Ann Brown passed away on November 19 at the age of 88. She is survived by daughter Barb Hegenes.
Andy & Jill Budish welcomed twin sons, Maxwell and Cole, on November 13.
Dwight W. (Dewey) Johnson passed away November 20 at the age of 64. He is survived by wife Kate Johnson and sons Nate and Matt (Kelsey).
MARRIAGES
Jane Hall passed away on November 22 at the age of 92. She is survived by daughter Anne (Ron) Hoffman, and granddaughters Tracy Weinstein and Emily Peterson.
Mary Olson and Tom Gulliford were married on October 28. The Rev. Rich Phenow and the Rev. Jody Phenow officiated. Emily Mitzelfeldt and Jackson Denn were married on November 18. The Rev. Melissa Schaser officiated.
DEATHS
Bernice Anna Haase passed away on October 25 at the age of 94. She is survived by daughter Joanie Garborg. Robert H. (Bob) Wellborn passed away on October 29. He is survived by son John (Kelly) Wellborn and grandchildren Ben, Sam, and Grace Wellborn.
Gerald “Bucky� Doyle passed away on November 23 at the age of 57. He is survived by his mother Edith (John) Kosa and sisters Josette Wynne and Pamela Studdard.
RECENTLY HOSPITALIZED Cheri Allan Joelle Bass Debbie Bevilacqua Cathi Droz
Ruth Gregory Ward Jensen Fred Kraft Chris McKenzie
Dr. Paul C. Belvedere passed away on November 1 at the age of 87. He is survived by wife Gail and children Paul, Bill (Jeni), Grayce, Josephine, and grandchildren Jack and Rachel.
STAFF TRANSITIONS
Joan Priddy passed away on November 1. She is survived by stepson Dave (Candace) Priddy.
FINANCIAL UPDATE
Diane Patricia Berryman Bain passed away on November 13 at the age of 85. She is survived by son Clark (Tina) Bain and grandchildren Mycah (Bobby) Burns, Gentry (Hallie), Piper, Esty, Selah, and Sterling. Jim Hearon passed away on November 13 at the age 83. He is
Dennis Nelson Marilyn Pertl Norm Siekman Sheela Solomon
Kari Augdahl joins as the Wednesday Morning Preschool Coordinator.
June 1-October 31, 2017 Ministry Offering Budget: $1,505,439 Actual Offering: $1,424,51 Variance: ($80,924) YTD Mission Focus Total: $55,323
for your support and generosity in 2017! All contributions to the church must be received or postmarked by December 31, 2017 to be credited for 2017. You can mail your gift or drop it off in the CPC office at the north entrance through December 30 by 12:00PM. Contributions made during services on December 30/31 will also be credited for 2017.
YE AR-END GIVING
THANK YOU
S TA FF SP OT LIGH T HE ATHER AUGDA HL HOMETOWN: Lester Prairie, MN FAMILY: Jon (married 21 years), Emma (17), Gretchen (16) HOBBIES: I love crafts—I try them all! FAVORITE VACATION: Camping in national parks BOOK RECENTLY READ: Growing Young GUILTY PLEASURE: Reading
W H AT DO YOU LOV E A BOUT PRESCHOOLERS? Everything. Literally. I love their joy, I love their passion, I love their willingness to be open. Preschoolers are just starting their faith journey, and it’s our hope that they will jump on the path with Jesus, listen to Him, pray, and find out where He wants them to go. Our goal is to build faith in them—and have that faith rooted within this community.
TELL US A BOUT THE JOURNE Y TH AT BROUGHT YOU TO CPC. When my kids were small, I was a huge volunteer at my church, helping with VBS and teaching Sunday school every year. As they entered elementary school, we thought it would be a good time to move to a neighborhood church, but unfortunately, there weren’t other kids from their school or the neighborhood attending. When they reached junior high, I really wanted my girls to connect with a small group. Five families on our street attended CPC, along with some really good friends from our old church, so we decided to try Wednesday night programming. The kids brought us, and we jumped all-in! My husband and I got involved with the S.A.L.T. Sunday Community, became members, and then deacons. But I realized I really missed being with little ones—so when there was an opening on the Kids’ team in early childhood, I was excited to apply!
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ADVENT 2017
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CPC LIFE
W E TA LK A LOT A BOUT BUILDING A “FA ITH TH AT S TICKS ” IN OUR K IDS. HOW DOES VOLUNTEERING FIT INTO TH AT PROCES S? A volunteer isn’t just a task-oriented doer, but someone who is listening and going where God is leading them. Though my girls have very service-minded hearts, they may not always choose to come volunteer with me—and that's okay! They may have different passions, and it's important for them to listen to those callings. I tell them, “When your heart is open to Jesus, He’ll put you where your heart is.” What might happen if people of different generations, in different places, on different journeys prayed about where God might use them here at CPC? I think our tendency is to stay in our comfort zones, with the same people and activities. But as people listen and follow God’s leading, I think we would see people creating new paths toward different groups, different avenues—and it would create an intergenerational renewal within this church.
H E A T H E R A U G D A H L has served as A S S O C I A T E D I R E C T O R of E A R LY CHIL D H O O D S IN CE 2 0 16
Annual
CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL SERVICE
Our gift to you this Christmas!
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.
Get Started
Tuesday, December 5 7:00PM • Sanctuary
It’s like Netflix for Christians—and it’s free for CPCers! Stream over 10,000 Bible study videos, kids’ shows, and more on-demand from any device. Get started (or access your existing account): cpconline.org/rightnow-media
Saturday, December 9 • 9:00-11:00AM • Fellowship Hall Gather with other women for a Christmas brunch, inspiring music with Sara Lightbody and Ashley Crowder, and hear from Dee McIntosh, Pastor of Lighthouse MPLS. Maggie McCracken shares God’s faithfulness in her life.
Cost: $15. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
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C O N S T R U C T I O N U P D AT E 1. P reparing the main entrance for concrete and asphalt. 2. Pouring concrete for the main entrance. 3. P arlor and main bathrooms demolished in preparation for our future Commons area. 4. Placing steel I-beams for west expansion. 5. Basement of west expansion completed in preparation for concrete. 6. Pouring first-floor concrete for the west expansion.
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CPC Life is a publication of Christ Presbyterian Church (CPC). Mail Subscriptions: Suggested annual donation of $20. Please write Editor, CPC Life, Christ Presbyterian Church, 6901 Normandale Road, Edina, MN 55435.
Email Subscriptions: To receive a link to the online version, contact communications@cpconline.org. We welcome your letters and comments! Please email communications@cpconline.org. Š Christ Presbyterian Church 2017
Director of Communications: Sarah Long Editor: Maggie Keller Art Direction & Design: Matt Schubbe, Byron McConnell Editorial Assistant: Claire Sweem
WORSHIP WITH US Saturdays at 5:15PM • Contemporary Worship Sundays at 9:30AM • Traditional Worship Sundays at 11:00AM • Contemporary Worship
CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP A L L - G E N E R A T I O N S S E R V I C E S (with contemporary worship band) Saturday, December 23 at 5:15PM Sunday, December 24 at 9:30 & 11:00AM (Childcare available for 6 weeks to 2 years)
TRADITIONAL COMMUNION SERVICE Sunday, December 24 at 5:00PM (Childcare available for 6 weeks to 2 years)
T R A D I T I O N A L L E S S O N S & C A R O L S S E R V I C E (with choir) Sunday, December 24 at 9:00PM
CANDLELIGHT COMMUNION SERVICE Sunday, December 24 at 11:00PM
MORE DE TAIL S: CPCONLINE .ORG/E V ENTS
SIMPLE GIFTS CHRISTMASTIDE CONCERT Saturday, December 16 doors open 7:00PM, concert at 7:30PM
Simple Gifts and Billy McLaughlin present traditional Christmas carols and hymns with a modern Old-World sound. Invite others to join you! Cost: $25/adults, $15/seniors and students ($30/$20 at the door). Purchase tickets: cpconline.org/events or at Pathway Books
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