CPC Life February 2017 by Christ Presbyterian Church

FEBRUARY 2017

MOVEMENTS FOR A FULLER LIFE IN CHRIST

everal years ago I was preaching through the Beatitudes and was caught by the verse stating, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” I thought that if we could actually see God (or catch glimpses of how or where God’s been active), we would see everything else in the world totally differently. Other people might appear as precious children rather than as obstacles to my own wants and desires. An ache in my knees in the morning might be a reminder of the incredible machinery of my body, instead of turning me into a complaining grump. If I could see the hand of God at work in all the different elements of my life, I’d worry about different things! And if I could see cats the way God does . . . well, we all make mistakes. One of my colleagues wrote that “the pure in heart see differently because they ‘will one thing’ above all else, instead of being distracted.” I like that—“to will one thing” and make it central, rather than fall victim to distractions. And yet I am so easily distracted, living in a world that breaks my attention every twenty-seven seconds. Hurtful things said or recalled (WORDS). Places to go, things to do (HANDS). The dinging of a text (TIME). A sapping relationship (PEOPLE). Financial stressors (MONEY). The pressure of a career (WORK). The aches and pains of age (BODY). These are the seven areas of life we are exploring in our current sermon series, “Seven in 2017.” So, what if we just picked one area of our lives to evaluate, then asked Jesus to shift our attention toward Him in the process? When we make small shifts in our attention, we have the opportunity to “will one thing” and see what only the undistracted see: the handprints of God all around us, and on us, and occasionally, through us. What’s your one thing?

John Crosby serves as Senior Pastor.

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W O R D S

Liars secretly hoard hatred; fools openly spread slander. The more talk, the less truth; the wise measure their words. The speech of a good person is worth waiting for; the blabber of the wicked is worthless. — Proverbs 10:18-20

Truthful witness by a good person clears the air, but liars lay down a smoke screen of deceit. Rash language cuts and maims, but there is healing in the words of the wise. Truth lasts; lies are here today, gone tomorrow. — Proverbs 12:17-19

“Guard well your thoughts when alone and your words when accompanied. — Roy T. Bennett

Gracious speech is like clover honey—good taste to the soul, quick energy for the body.

“In prayer it is better to have a heart without words than words without a heart. — John Bunyan

Fools are undone by their big mouths; their souls are crushed by their words. Listening to gossip is like eating cheap candy; do you really want junk like that in your belly? — Proverbs 18:7-8

— Proverbs 16:24

NEXT STEP: Memorize Scripture, such as Proverbs 10:19. When you feel tempted to use your words to tear down instead of build up, recite it to yourself.

PRAY: “God, please give me words to bless instead of to curse. Help me to pause before I open my mouth to speak.”

CPC LIFE

FEBRUARY 2017

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

HOMETOWN: Cape Town, South Africa FAMILY: Rebecca (married seven years); children, Kingston (5), Myla (3), and Scarlett (1) HOBBIES: Strategy board games, animated movies MOST IMPACTFUL BOOK: The Christian in Complete Armour by William Gurnall GUILTY PLEASURE: Candy!

HOW DID YOU COME TO FA ITH IN CHRIS T? When I was about eleven, a member of a local Southern Baptist church approached my mother to ask if she would host a service in her home—a common practice in South Africa. My mother said “Yes,” invited neighbors, and the church had worship, gave a testimony, preached, and held an altar call. During that altar call, my mother accepted Christ, and from there she led my brother and me to Christ. That moment changed her life, changed our whole lives. I don’t know if I’d be here today if she hadn’t accepted Christ, because we lived in a very gang-infested neighborhood. In later years, my brother joined a gang and departed from the faith. It was through her prayers that my brother came back to the Lord. Everybody knows that a mother’s prayers are very, very powerful. Today he serves as a pastor. What the Lord did through her for us is absolutely magnificent.

W H AT H A PPENED A F TER YOU BECA ME A CHRIS TI A N? In university was the first time my faith was challenged. Am I going to cling to what my mother believes, or am I going to pursue Christ for myself? This was a good wrestling point for me. It was only when I decided Yes, I need to walk with Christ for myself that things became very interesting for me. I started to volunteer at shelters and later plugged into a ministry organization that helped kids and adults learn about the Bible and receive HIV/AIDS healthcare. That’s where I met my wife, Rebecca. She is from Minnesota but felt a call to Africa. So Rebecca quit her job, moved out of her house, and went to Cape Town for five months. I was her supervisor, and when I met her, right away I knew it would be trouble! We became really serious quickly, and I asked her to marry me the day before she left South Africa. We knew God was calling us to America, which was tough at times. I had to stand on the verse, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” This time stretched my faith. It was as

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if God was asking, “Do you trust Me?” I had to take a step of faith and say, “I do trust You, and I do trust Your Word. You are faithful to accomplish this.”

YOU S TA RTED HERE AT CPC THIS PA S T OCTOBER . W H AT CA N YOU TELL US A BOUT YOUR CA LL TO SERV E OTHERS? Ministry has always been part of my life. I feel like God has called me to serve in teaching and preaching His Word. And I have a passion to reach kids. So working in Kids’ Ministries is a good fit. Yesterday I asked my 4th grade boys’ class, “What’s the greatest love you can show somebody?” They said silly things like, “You can give them a Ferrari.” But one of the boys said, “You can actually die for that person.” I said, “Yes, but there is an even greater way to show your love.” They couldn’t figure it out, so I finally said, “The greatest love you can show somebody is have your son die in his place. It is hard for me to die. But it’s way more of a sacrifice if I give my son to die in the place of someone else.” All of a sudden, this one boy says, “Wait a minute, I get it!” That was a highlight of my life! He understood what God did for us through Jesus’ death. I hope this boy remembers that moment changing how he sees God and His love for us. I love kids because their worldview, values, and morals are still developing. They are more open to change and receiving the Gospel than anyone else. Kids’ Ministries is a really exciting place to serve. NEXT STEPS: Ask yourself where you might serve at CPC. Love kids? Have a gift for hospitality? Visit cpconline.org/serve/here for current opportunities. PRAY: “God, reveal to me where You need to use my hands and feet for Your Kingdom. Help me see the need before me and equip me to serve in Your name.”

P E O P L E

fter visiting CPC a few times, my husband, Jay, and I quickly decided we wanted to get involved. We had just moved here from South Carolina, didn’t know a soul, and had no family here—but we’d had a great small group experience at our previous church, and we knew this would be our way to get to know people.

The reason we wanted to form a small group was because we were missing the community piece of our faith. Jay and I feel this is so important—there’s only so much spiritual growth you can do on an “island.” To have that community element has been impactful. Our group is studying a book of the Bible together, so it gives us the chance to dive into Scripture and learn together. Doing this on your own can be challenging, but as a group we get to see what each person brings. Each one in our group has distinct upbringings, church, and faith experiences—and we all find different and unique things from the Scripture we’re exploring. That has been instrumental for me in deepening my faith and expanding my knowledge of who Jesus is and what He’s done for us. Jay and I have talked about how when we haven’t been in a regular small group, our faith has almost become stagnant. Even if you have your own personal quiet time, there’s something different about being in relationship with a group of people. To not just have people to hang out with on the weekends, but to learn together and do life together. Our group has been a huge reminder of how our Christian faith was meant to be shared in community. My encouragement to others is to just do it! We live in such a busy, distractionfilled world, and we schedule our days to the minute. In theory, a weekly small group is a lot to commit to. We didn’t think we could find the time. But it forces us, for one day a week, to intentionally put something that is God-honoring into our day. So that’s what I’d say—just do it.

― Suzanne Bostwick and her husband, Jay, meet weekly with three other couples (and their kids) to study and share a meal together.

NEXT STEP: Want a short-term way to try out a small group? Lenten Small Groups run for six weeks starting February 26 and follow along with the Lenten sermon series, “Taste and See.” Visit cpcponline.org/groups to learn more. PRAY: “God, please give me motivation to seek out meaningful community where I can see, be seen, and learn with my Christian brothers and sisters.”

CPC LIFE

FEBRUARY 2017

M O N E Y

ne of the dangers of having a lot of money is that you may be quite satisfied with the kinds of happiness money can give, and so fail to realize your need for God. If everything seems to come simply by signing checks, you may forget that you are at every moment totally dependent on God. Now, quite plainly natural gifts carry with them a similar danger. If you have sound nerves and intelligence and health and popularity and a good upbringing, you are likely to be quite satisfied with your character as it is. “Why drag God into it?” you may ask. A certain level of good conduct comes fairly easily to you. You are not one of those wretched creatures who are always being tripped up by sex or dipsomania or nervousness or bad temper. Everyone says you are a nice chap, and between ourselves, you agree with them. You are quite likely to believe that all this niceness is your own doing, and you may easily not feel the need for any better kind of goodness. Often people who have all these natural kinds of goodness cannot be brought to recognize their need for Christ at all until one day, the natural goodness lets them down, and their self-satisfaction is shattered. In other words, it is hard for those who are rich in this sense to enter the kingdom.

― C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity

NEXT STEPS: Look into attending Financial Peace University at a local church. Take stock of your finances. Where do you spend it? How much do you save? Do you make a practice of giving to church? PRAY: “God, please help me set my financial priorities to fit your priorities. Help me use money wisely and advance Your Kingdom where I see need.”

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T I M E

ne Christmas season my small group purchased a glossy, expensive (!) Advent devotional. It looked gorgeous on the outside. It had a shiny, colorful design. But when we opened it up to read, there was a problem. It was crammed with text and had no white space . . . just tiny margins. Truly, all the letters seemed to be a jumble of noise and busyness. They attacked our senses and made it impossible to absorb. It gave us a headache. It. Was. Just. Too. Much. I’m sure there was value there, but we gave up trying to read it.

THERE IS NO WHITE SPACE. THE NOISE AND ACTIVITY CROWDS OUT ROOM FOR SABBATH, FOR CREATIVITY, AND FOR LISTENING TO THE STILL, SMALL VOICE OF GOD.

The same is true for many of us when we look at our calendar. There is no white space. The noise and activity crowds out room for Sabbath, for creativity, and for listening to the still, small voice of God. The other day I was out walking around Lake of the Isles at an arctic five degrees. I had been listening to a podcast on my phone, but all of a sudden it stopped—frozen—and I was left with a lot of white space. The world around me was snowy white, and the noise in my ears was stilled. With this space, I found myself noticing the beauty of creation and thanking God. A creative idea came to mind. The Holy Spirit prompted me to reexamine how I’m viewing a relationship. I know some seasons are harder than others, but as you review your calendar, are there relationships, tasks, or distractions you can say “No” to? An extravagant discipline of creating healthy margin may be the most important investment for our souls. When we create white space for God, He gently writes His script with the “unforced rhythms of grace.”

NEXT STEPS: Go twenty-four hours without your phone or social media. Say “No” to anything that has you out more than two nights a week. Turn off the radio when you drive. PRAY: “God, please help me make room for white space in my life. Untether me from the drain of busyness and the preoccupation of noise and mental clutter. Help me long for alone time with You.”

Laura Crosby is a creator (especially of a welcoming home for good food and conversation), a biker-runner-walker, and a Starbucks groupie. She blogs at lauracrosby.me. CPC LIFE

FEBRUARY 2017

W O R K

“Whatever you are seeking in your work—the city of justice and peace, the world of brilliance and beauty, the story, the order, the healing— it is there. There is a God, there is a future healed world that he will bring about, and your work is showing it (in part) to others. Your work will be only partially successful, on your best days, in bringing that world about. But inevitably the whole tree that you seek—the beauty, harmony, justice, comfort, joy, and community—will come to fruition.”

- Timothy Keller Recommended Book: Every Good Endeavor: Connecting Your Work to God’s Work by Timothy Keller

“What else is all our work to God—whether in the fields, in the garden, in the city, in the house, in war, or in government—but just such a child’s performance, by which He wants to give His gifts in the fields, at home, and everywhere else? These are the masks of God, behind which He wants to remain concealed and do all things.” - Martin Luther

“Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for God, confident that you’ll get paid in full when you come into your inheritance. Keep in mind always that the ultimate Master you’re serving is Christ.” – Colossians 3:23-24

NEXT STEP: Attend CPC’s Christ in Career class on the first and third Saturdays of the month from 8:30-10:00AM. We gather around the common concern of nurturing our faith in the work environment. Learn more from Deb Carlson at debc@cpconline.org.

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“Imagine that everyone quits working, right now! What happens? Civilized life quickly melts away. Food vanishes from the shelves, gas dries up at the pumps, streets are no longer patrolled, and fires burn themselves out. Communications and transportation services end, utilities go dead. Those who survive at all are soon huddled around campfires, sleeping in caves, clothed in raw animal hides. The difference between [a wilderness] and culture is simply, work.” - Lester DeKoster, author of Work: The Meaning of Your Life: A Christian Perspective

“During the year 1957, I experienced, by the grace of God, a spiritual awakening which was to lead me to a richer, fuller, more productive life. At that time, in gratitude, I humbly asked to be given the means and privilege to make others happy through music. I feel this has been granted through His grace. ALL PRAISE TO GOD. . . . This album is a humble offering to Him. An attempt to say ‘THANK YOU GOD’ through our work, even as we do in our hearts and with our tongues. May He help and strengthen all men in every good endeavor.” -John Coltrane, excerpt from the liner notes in his masterpiece album, A Love Supreme

PRAY: “God, you have given me a purpose in my career to work hard, act with integrity, and be a kind coworker. Please help me to accomplish what you would have me do each day.”

B O D Y

’ve been doing yoga for years. I love the discipline, it’s gymnastic, you have to focus, be quiet . . . you have to get strong. But then I started doing Holy Yoga in 2012. I love that our meditations are based in Scripture. For example if the verse is Philippians 1:6—He who began a good work in you will carry it to completion—we work the passage through every movement, every breath. Every breath is a gift from God, and every breath connects you to our Creator. We think about Jesus, and that has integrity for me. I also love my Holy Yoga community. There’s the paired camaraderie of working out together and being brothers and sisters in Christ together. We chat, we go out to lunch, we pray for each other through illnesses and tough times. Holy Yoga is more than just you and your body being beautiful; it’s being part of something bigger than you. I teach fitness in a senior community, including yoga for the chair. My oldest yoga student is 90 and my youngest is 73. One of my water aerobics students is 99, and it’s fun to just see her moving and thinking every day! Seeing my fitness students happy and smiling—there’s nothing like it. God has innately given people a sense that to survive and be healthy is to move. Once people take the first steps to move their bodies, we are there to cheerlead and encourage. Everybody, even in wheelchairs, can do something! - CPCer Jane Plumhoff teaches fitness and Holy Yoga

NEXT STEP: CPC hosts Holy Yoga on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:30PM and Saturdays at 9:00AM. All are welcome! Learn more at holyyoga.net.

PRAY ABOUT: “God, please help me care for my body in a way that reflects your love for my whole person.”

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FEBRUARY 2017

HAPPENINGS CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515

E VENTS WELCOME TO CPC GATHERING

Sunday, February 12 • 10:30AM & 12:00PM • Fireside Room Learn more about our church, staff, and programs.

MID-MONTH CHAPEL SERVICE

Wednesday, February 15 • 12:00PM A traditional service with a short message by James Madsen, hymns, Communion, and prayers. Lunch follows. No reservation necessary.

ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICES

Wednesday, March 1 Begin the Lenten journey as we gather for worship: • 12:00PM (Chapel): Traditional service with a meditation, Communion, and the imposition of ashes • 6:00 & 7:30PM (Sanctuary): Identical services of reflection with confession, Communion, and the imposition of ashes

BETHEL UNIVERSITY CHOIR IN CONCERT AT CPC

Friday, March 3 • 7:30PM • Sanctuary Join us for an evening of music as the Bethel University choir launches their spring tour. The program features the music of Felix Mendelssohn, Knut Nystedt, Eric Whitacre, and more. Conducted by Dr. Gene Peterson, Director of Choral Activities since 2015. Free-of-charge, open to the public, and sponsored by the CPC Christian Fine Arts Committee.

KIDS EVENTS FAM JAM: WE LOVE YOU SNOW MUCH

Saturday, February 11 • 9:00-10:45AM • MPR Preschool families, let CPC love your family at this event! Enjoy crafts, cookie decorating, games, and other family activities. No cost. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

FAMILY COMMUNION WORKSHOP

Saturday, March 11 • 4:00-5:00PM • Anderson Hall Elementary-aged children and their parents discover both the biblical beginnings and CPC’s tradition of taking Communion. Led by Associate Directors of Elementary, Jordyn Farris and Stanton Petersen. A light supper will be served (free will offering). tammym@cpconline.org Sign up:

Signups open Saturday, February 25 at 10:00AM at cpconline.org/events. • VBS (3-year-olds by June 1, 2017 through kids entering 1st grade): June 13-15 • Big Fun Kix (entering 2nd-3rd): June 12-15 • Mystery Day (entering 2nd-5th): June 27 • Crush (entering 4th-5th): July 14-16 Details: cpconline.org/kids

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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, February 8 through March 22 (except March 1, Ash Wednesday) • 5:00-7:30PM 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 • Club (6:30-7:30PM) – 1st-6th grades Cost: $15/first child, $10/second child, $5/third child; max $30/family. Sign up: cpconline.org/kids

S TUDENTS SUMMER CAMP SIGN UP!

Online signups open Saturday, February 25 at 10:00AM at cpconline.org/ events. • Rockslide (entering 6th-8th): June 12-16 • Frontier (entering 7th-8th): June 25-30 • Quest (entering 9th): July 10-14 • 612 Experience (entering 9th-12th): June 26-29 • Summit (entering 10th-12th): July 22-28 Details: cpconline.org/students

HOT COCOA FOR MISSION JAMAICA!

Sunday, February 26 after both morning services CPC high school students serving in Jamaica over Spring Break will serve hot chocolate in the Great Room. Free will donation!

ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICES

Wednesday, March 1 • 6:00PM & 7:30PM • Sanctuary Student Ministries is collaborating with the Worship team to create two identical Ash Wednesday Services. Come experience the beginning of Lent with your friends and family. We encourage students to spend time before or after the service sharing a meal with their small groups. These services will take the place of Elevate, Commitment Class, and HSM Large Group.

ELEVATE & COMMITMENT CLASS ELEVATE & CC WEDNESDAY NIGHTS

Wednesdays, February 8, 15, & 22 • 6:15-7:30PM 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

AVALANCHE SKI/SNOWBOARD RETREAT

Saturday-Monday, February 18-20 • Spirit Mountain in Duluth Over President’s Day weekend, 7th-8th graders head up to Duluth for an

CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515 STUDIES

amazing ski/snowboarding and service trip. Cost: $250. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

HSM HSM HOUSE GROUPS

Wednesdays, February 8, 15, & 22 • 8:00-9:15PM • area homes mycahb@cpconline.org

HSM LARGE GROUP

Wednesday, March 1 • CPC See Ash Wednesday Services listing under Student Ministries. mycahb@cpconline.org

SPECIAL NEEDS TAPESTRY

Tuesdays, February 7, 21, & March 7 • 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. erind@cpconline.org vanc@cpconline.org

MOSAIC WORSHIP SERVICE

Sunday, February 26 • 12:30PM • Sanctuary 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! Lunch is provided following worship for a time of fellowship and food. erind@cpconline.org vanc@cpconline.org

WOMEN IN THE WORD

Mondays starting March 6 • 9:30-11:45AM • Anderson Hall We study Jonah: Navigating a Life Interrupted by Priscilla Shirer. In this six-session Bible study, Priscilla shows that interruption is actually God’s invitation to do something beyond our wildest dreams. Includes DVD teaching, small group conversation, fellowship, and prayer. Cost: $16. Childcare: $25/semester. 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: $25/semester. Sign up: cpconline.org/studies

GROUPS LENTEN SMALL GROUPS

Beginning the week of February 26: Sundays from 10:45AM-12:00PM in Room 304; Tuesdays from 6:45-8:00PM in Room 304; Thursdays from 12:00-1:00PM in the Parlor; Sundays from 6:30-8:00PM in the North Lakeville/Apple Valley neighborhood These short-term groups are a great way to connect with others and try a small group experience. The study pairs with the six-week Lenten sermon series, “Taste and See.” Sign up: cpconline.org/groups

SUNDAY COMMUNITIES

ADULTS EVENTS WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

Friday, February 24 • 7:00-9:00PM • CPC In the dark of winter, we need light that warms, draws us together, and points the way. Sara Groves, musician and seven-time Dove Award nominee, and Bethany Hoang, coauthor of The Justice Calling, use songs and stories to explore the darkness in our world today—from poverty to slavery to sex trafficking—while drawing us deeper into the hope of justice and the light of God’s healing work. Women Who Inspire events are offered twice a year and are geared toward all women to be encouraged to grow in life, work, and calling. Cost: $15. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

MEN’S BREAKFAST

Saturday, March 11• 7:00-9:00AM • Fellowship Hall Come hang with the guys and enjoy a hearty breakfast. Hear from Artul Tandon, US CEO of Opportunity International. Cost: $10 by 12:00PM on March 9; $12 at the door. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

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. •N EW! E3 (millenial couples) (9:30AM – Fellowship Hall East) •C ATALYST (young married couples) (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) “Finding Peace and Joy” with Dave Scherf (9:30AM - Fellowship Hall East) •A .C.T.S. (late 50s & 60s) “The Good Life: Romans 12 & 13” with Randy Andersen (9:20AM - Fellowship Hall Center) •M ORE (Active Retired) “Acts: The Beloved Community” with Melissa Schaser (10:45AM - Room 107) •C REDO (Intergenerational) “King of the Jews: The Jewish Background of Jesus and the New Testament” with Nick Schaser (10:45AM - Room 10 South)

NEW! MIXED ADULT GROUP 50s & 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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MEN MORNING MEN’S GROUPS

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

THE DADS’ GROUP

Wednesdays • 6:30-7:30PM • 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 MOM’S MORNING (for moms of young children)

LARGE GROUP Wednesdays, February 8 & 22 • 9:30-11:30AM • Fireside Room Join other moms for fellowship and inspirational speakers. On February 8, Carrie Gleeson speaks on “Sticky Faith with Your Kids.” On February 22, a panel of multi-generational moms speaks on “Been There—Done That!” Cost: $25/year; $30/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: $30/child. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

NEEDLEWORK GUILD

Saturday, February 11 • 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

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

LARGE GROUP Thursday, February 16 • 9:30-11:30AM • Anderson Hall Toni Schutta speaks on “Proven Strategies for Reducing Sibling Hassles.” Toni is a national speaker, author, parent coach, and licensed psychologist. 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 • CPC Join with other moms in this group to connect and grow together in faith. Geared toward moms with young kids up through high school. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups

COUPLES COUPLES’ GROUPS

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

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OLDER ADULTS EDYNAMOES

Wednesday, February 22 • 11:30AM • Fellowship Hall This month we’ll feel the love of and enjoy lunch (multiple soups!) prepared by “Souper” Pastor Rich Phenow and his mighty band of staffers. We welcome Maud Hixson, one of the most respected and best-known jazz singers in town, who performs songs made famous and familiar by Doris Day! Cost: $5. Please bring Jerry’s cash receipts and pop/can tabs. Sign up by February 19: Cleo Wedge at 952.922.2769

CIRCLES (women 60+)

Circles combine fellowship, learning, and service in a small group setting. Guests and new members always welcome! MARTHA CIRCLE Wednesday, February 15 • 10:00AM • Parlor Get acquainted with Stanton Petersen, Associate Director of Elementary, and hear about his ministry with young students. Pat Haberkorn at 952.941.4188 LYDIA CIRCLE Friday, February 18 • 9:30AM • Parlor Program to be announced. Visitors are welcome as we gather for fellowship. Ellen Hastings at 952.896.0066 ESTHER CIRCLE Thursday, March 2 • 10:00AM • nearby home All women are welcome to join us for Bible study and fellowship. shellienw@gmail.com 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 ALZHEIMER’S EDUCATION SERIES

Thursday, February 9 • 6:30-8:00PM • Anderson Hall • last meeting until September A series for care partners and those with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. February’s topic is a panel discussion: “Individuals Living with Early Stage Dementia and Their Care Partners.” No reservation needed. marya@cpconline.org

INFERTILITY CARE GROUP

Thursday, February 9 • 7:00-8:30PM • Room 107 • meets 2nd Thursday of the month “Do you have kids?” It’s a familiar question for married couples. However, when couples experience infertility it is anything but a simple question. If you are experiencing infertility and would welcome a place to talk about it, please join this open support group. debbiem@cpconline.org

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

Friday, February 10 & Saturday, February 25 • 10:00AM-12:00PM • Room 200 • usually meets 2nd Friday & 4th Saturday of the month 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

HAPPENINGS

NEW BEGINNINGS

Tuesday, February 14 • 5:00PM • Dinner at Patrick’s Bakery & Café in Richfield New Beginnings is CPC’s support, resource, and friendship community for those dealing with the practical issues that follow a spouse’s death. Enjoy dinner together on Valentine’s Day at Patrick’s Bakery & Café. Sign up: debc@cpconline.org

GRIEF RECOVERY

Tuesday, February 14 • 6:00-8:30PM • Parlor • meets 2nd Tuesdays Grief Recovery is for those who have lost a loved one. We experience God’s hope and healing through fellowship, prayer, and sharing a meal. Grief counselor Paul Johnson speaks. No reservation needed. debbiem@cpconline.org

ABUNDANTLY SATISFIED

Sundays, February 19 (Room 203) & March 5 (Room 303) 9:30-10:30AM • 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

GRACE & HOPE FOR OUR CHILDREN

Tuesday, February 21 • 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 speakers. This month’s speaker is Jen Holper, LSW from PrairieCare mental health care clinic. dbrown@dcbrowninc.com

LGBTQ FAMILY GROUP

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

SERVE HERE SEX TRAFFICKING IN THE MIDWEST SEMINAR

Saturday, February 11 • 9:00AM-12:00PM • Fireside Room Join CPC ministry partner Source Anti-Trafficking for an informative morning of education, awareness, and equipping. Sergeant Grant Snyder gives a close-up look at the problem of sex trafficking and how it’s being addressed in our state. Kjersti Bohrer, director of Beautiful & Loved strip club outreach, shares insights into women currently working in the Twin Cities sex industry, and how her ministry is providing hope. Cost: $15 for students, $20 for pre-registration, $25 at the door. Look for other Source events at sourcemn.org/events. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

SAVE THE DATE: THE PLUNGE

Saturday, March 25 What if the Golden Rule isn’t enough in this rapidly-changing cross-cultural world? How competent are you as a citizen, neighbor, and Christian? Take the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) with Urban Homewroks staff and other CPCers, find your cross-cultural acumen, and discuss your findings. Discover your framework and filters and use this practical knowledge at work, in your community, as a follower of Jesus, and as a friend and family member. Future Plunge date: May 20 for a Community Day on the Greenway with Urban Ventures. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

FAR 2017 GO!TRIPS

Sign up: cpconline.org/serve/far 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 and to communicate information for your thoughtful prayer and discernment. leslieb@cpconline.org

SANKOFA JOURNEY OF RECONCILIATION TO THE AMERICAN SOUTH

March 16-19 plus pre-trip workshop Leader: Dee McIntosh Cost: ~$595 (+ some incidentals) Sign up immediately Sankofa is a West African word that means “looking backward to move forward.” A Sankofa journey is a cross-racial experience that takes participants on a four-day bus trip to critical sites of past and present racial injustice.

NEW! ISRAEL PALESTINE WITH YOHANNA & DINA KATANACHO

April 23-May 1 Trip Leader: Tim Gibson Cost: $1,600 (plus airfare of ~$1,600) Sign up immediately Our hosts are Yohanna and Dina Katanacho, our good friends and CPC’s 2016 Global Scholars-in-Residence. This is an inspiring, eye-opening pilgrimage that will both deepen your faith and your understanding of the challenges facing our Christian friends in the Middle East.

NICARAGUA WITH OPPORTUNITY INTERNATIONAL June 20-26 Trip Leaders: John Crosby and Lori Olson from OI Cost: ~$1,600 (plus incidentals, insurance, and airfare) Sign up by April 1

FALL TRIPS

• Israel Palestine with The Telos Group: October 17-27 • Zambia: November

NEAR BLOOMINGTON LOAVES & FISHES

Friday, February 17 • Prep: 2:00-4:00PM; Serve: 5:00-7:00PM • Creekside Community Center • 3rd Friday of the month Volunteers age 15 and older are welcome to prepare and serve a meal with our Bloomington friends. Sign up for one or both slots: cpconline.org/events CPC LIFE

FEBRUARY 2017

College students on a winter retreat.

Steve Wiens speaks at Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Morning.

Students and leaders serving in Chicago.

Praying for new Lay Care ministers.

BIRTHS

Chris and Claire Sweem welcomed a son, William Ames, on January 9. Claire works at CPC in Communications and Room Scheduling.

James A. Anderson passed away on January 14 at the age of 59. His mother is Dinny Anderson, and his wife is Betsy, former Lay Care staff member. Jim was a former CPC Elder.

RECENTLY HOSPITALIZED

MARRIAGES

Joshua Pedretti and Jaclyn Kruchoski were married on December 31. The Rev. Rich Phenow officiated.

Dawn Allan Dave Beadie Lois Loomis

DEATHS

FINANCIAL UPDATE

Endla Kivestu passed away on December 31 at the age of 101. Her son is Peeter Kivestu. Dave Nodine passed away on January 4 at the age of 80. His daughter is Lynn Halloran. Mildred Russell passed away on January 11. Her daughter is Carolyn Russell.

Janet Orange Leah Pillsbury

Bruce Vetsch Nora Wellnitz

June 1–December 31, 2016 Ministry Offering Budget: $3,115.723.49 Actual Offering: $2,977,448.43 Variance: ($138,275.06) YTD Mission Focus Total: $213,657.27 Christmas Offering (Lighthouse Church): $101,806.09 Expenses are under budget year-to-date.

Gather Together for a Night of Inspiration In the dark of winter, we need light that warms, draws us together, and points the way. Sara Groves, musician and seven-time Dove Award nominee, and Bethany Hoang, coauthor of The Justice Calling, use songs and stories to explore the darkness in our world today—from poverty to slavery to sex trafficking—while drawing us deeper into the hope of justice and the light of God’s healing work. Women Who Inspire events are offered twice a year and are geared toward all women to be encouraged to grow in life, work, and calling.

Friday, February 24 • 7:00-9:00PM • CPC $15 • cpconline.org/events

W E E K LY Saturdays at 5:15PM • Sundays at 9:30AM • Sundays at 11:00AM • Sundays at 5:00PM •

W O R S H I P Contemporary Worship Traditional Worship Contemporary Worship The Table at CPC

B egin t h e s e a s on o f L en t w i t h on e o f t h r e e

A S H

W E D N E S D A Y

S E R V I C E S

Wednesday, March 1 12:00PM

•

CHAPEL

Traditional service with a meditation, Communion, and the imposition of ashes 6:00 & 7:30PM

•

SANCTUARY

Identical services of reflection with confession, Communion, and the imposition of ashes

Christ Presbyterian Church

952.920.8515

cpconline.org

facebook.com/cpconline

@CPCEdina