CPC Life Lent 2019 by Christ Presbyterian Church

L E N T

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or many, the season of Lent has become a time where you give up something you are attached to. Yet there is an inherent danger in simply giving up something without taking up Jesus in its place. For those that choose something challenging to give up, they often fail in their endeavor, which can lead to despair and the belief that God must think they are a failure. Others keep their fast, which leads them to feelings of pride, self-righteousness, and belief in Satan’s lie that you don’t need a Savior. I often find that the people who fast “successfully” are unaware of how they treated people in the process. One person I know gives up caffeine each Lent and behaves like an ornery growling bear, snapping at people. Maybe he doesn’t see his need for Jesus, but everyone around him does!

We should be honest with ourselves regarding how our attachments to things—like our smartphone, our hobbies, our bitterness, and our pride—keep us from loving others and experiencing abundant life in God.

At its heart, Lent should be a time of repentance. Repentance is putting God back at the center of our life. What might we be called to “lay down” that hinders our love for Jesus and our ability to love other people? We should be honest with ourselves regarding how our attachments to things—like our smartphone, our hobbies, our bitterness, and our pride—keep us from loving others and experiencing abundant life in God. As we wrestle with these attachments, we will experience failure and relapse. Can I remind you that your failure doesn’t surprise Jesus? He died for all your sins. He wants us to experience freedom from all the things that enslave us so that we can deeply experience His love and freely love those around us. Our Lenten sermon series completes our in-depth look at the Sermon on the Mount. These three chapters are full of challenging teachings from Jesus. As we listen to the words of Jesus, we will experience an important tension: knowing that we should be growing in obedience in these areas, and the reality that we still fall short. Matthew begins his gospel with the reminder that Jesus came to save us from our sins (Matthew 1:21). If we forget this reality, we will approach the Sermon on the Mount pretending we are doing better at obedience than we really are, or we will think our determined self-effort earns our approval before God. Yet as believers in Jesus, what we are called to do flows from what Jesus has already done. Jesus makes us right before God by His shed blood on the cross. As we rest in that reality and the power of the Holy Spirit, we can move toward living out these teachings. At the core of this obedience is learning to live in greater dependence on God. We lay down what is keeping us from experiencing the joy of this dependence and take up life in Christ. As we journey toward Easter together, may we experience anew the overwhelming good news of the gospel found in Jesus.

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

CPC LIFE

LENT 2019

L E N T

2 0 1 9

Dig into the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount with a study written by Pastor James Madsen.

D R DEPEN GREATE SEEKING S ON JESU

ENCE

In Lay Down & Take Up: Seeking Greater Dependence on Jesus, we will journey through six ways that we can lay down the weights of this world and instead take up the words of Jesus as He calls us toward life in Him. Do this study together with a small group, as a household, or on your own!

Available in the Great Room or at cpconline.org/sermons.

Build an authentic community by joining a small group at CPC! Small groups help you draw closer to Jesus, feel connected to other followers of Christ, and know that you are loved and accepted into God's kingdom by His grace. Our small groups come in many varieties: men, women, mixed adults, couples, and short-term. Many existing groups welcome others to join them (see page 12), and new groups launch with sufficient interest.

Contact debc@cpconline.org to find a group or start a new one.

FA I T H S T O R Y: T I M D U L A S

The Holy Spirit opened my eyes and my heart to the Word, and it captivated me. I couldn’t read enough of it!

grew up in a Catholic family that went to church every Sunday, but we were the family that sat in the last pew and were the first to leave. For college I attended St. Olaf, and I did attend church more often than not, but that had a lot had to do with the fact that it was a good excuse to go out to breakfast afterward! The first time I stepped into the doors of CPC was for the funeral of a good friend who passed away when she was just thirty-two. Jody Phenow had been very close with my friend, walking side-by-side with her through her final journey with cancer. My impression was that this was a really good church, and I should check it out. I came here the next Sunday, walked in, and the parents of my best friend were standing there! I started attending CPC and quickly connected with a men’s group. Friends encouraged me to attend a class offered at CPC by Mike Kramer, a year-long walk-through-the-Bible class. When attending Catholic mass, I would hear three readings of Scriptures—but I never understood how they were connected. I’d tried to read the Bible on my own, but it didn’t register. When I started going to this class, it was my first exposure to Bible study. At that point, I felt that the Holy Spirit really entered into me, and I could start to make sense of what I was reading—it started to come alive. Every time I read it, it was like, Wow. This is me. This relates to me. I never knew this. The Holy Spirit opened my eyes and my heart to the Word, and it captivated me. I couldn’t read enough of it! It was during that Bible study that I said to Mike, “I don’t really know if I’m

saved.” And he said, “Well, I think you are, but let’s just do it right now.” So I admitted my sin and my need for Jesus and my desire to trust in Him. It was a marking experience for me. Bible study has been a foundation for me. My wife, Kim, and I joined Community Bible Study and were leaders for 16 years and still participate to this day. I’m still involved in the same Friday morning small group that I’ve been attending for years. Small groups are really special—you share life together, you know things about each other that no one else knows, you have a “family” that you are able to share your challenges and joys with. There’s a special bond that happens when it is a group of Christians that doesn’t happen in other relationships because you are sharing your faith and your spiritual lives. I am very honored to now be an elder at CPC. I prayed about it, and I felt the Lord wanted me to do this. I was at the New Members lunch recently, and I was so encouraged by the excitement around the table of these people who are joining CPC—hearing of their commitment, the sense that this is a place of community, a place of acceptance and belonging. I think this church is going to have tremendous impact for His glory. I see the elders as the spiritual board of directors of this church. Our job is to be listening for where God is leading us. The elders are all gifted people in different ways, but we also need to put those gift asides and listen to His quiet voice about where He wants to take us. Because that’s the most exciting place to be.

T I M D U L A S became an E L D E R in M A Y 2 0 1 8 CPC LIFE

LENT 2019

H OLY W E EK E VENTS M aund y Th u r s d ay S e r vi c e

G o o d F r i d a y W o r s hi p

Thursday, April 18 at 7:00PM This dramatic traditional service marks the Last Supper and Crucifixion with Scripture lessons, artwork, lighting, the Sacrament of Holy Communion, music by the Chancel Choir, and a meditation from James Madsen. Childcare: 6 weeks-3 years.

Friday, April 19 at 7:00PM A service that journeys through the drama and emotion Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; followers felt at the time of His death. Includes Scripture readings and Communion. Childcare: 6 weeks-3 years.

24- Hour Eas te r P r ay e r V i g i l

E a s t e r W a t c hni g ht Se r v i ce

Saturday, April 20 at 6:00AM until Sunday, April 21 at 6:00AM in the Chapel A twenty-four-hour silent prayer vigil, symbolizing the period of waiting after the crucifixion. Sign up in the Great Room for a thirty-minute time period to pray personally, reflect, and prepare for Easter. No childcare.

Saturday, April 20 at 9:00PM Worship in the dark, based on the ancient Easter vigil service with a candle processional, Scripture lessons, music, Communion, and the Renewal of Baptismal Vows. A unique and powerful way to start the Easter celebration! No childcare.

Easter Services are lis t ed o n t h e b ack p ag e.

E A S T E R OF F E R ING 2 0 19

CPC is partnering with the work God is doing through Jubilee Centre & Opportunity International to make

How Our Partners are Making a Difference Jubilee Centre in Zambia

Opportunity International in Latin America

• creating nutrition programs for HIV-positive children • starting community schools • resourcing 40 churches and pastors who care for body and soul

• s upporting entrepreneurs through microfinance • building technical schools •e stablishing farming initiatives and community development

Every dollar of your gift will be invested in the new thing God is doing through churches in Zambia

through farmers in Nicaragua

through entrepreneurs in Colombia

Mark “Easter Offering” in your check memo line to contribute, or give online at cpconline.org/give.

Why Does It Matter That Jesus was Jewish? Come explore the significance of Jesus’ Jewishness and the Judaic background of our Christian faith with Dr. Nick Schaser. Plus, you’ll learn about the history of the first-century Christian church, the Jewish context of the New Testament, and a biblically-centered approach to modern Jewish-Christian relations.

SUNDAY, MARCH 31 • 7:00-8:30PM • FELLOWSHIP HALL This event is free and open to all (high schoolers and up).

Give Time to Families Experiencing Homelessness

March 17-24 • CPC

Families Moving Forward is a faith-based organization providing temporary shelter, affordable housing, and supportive services to low-income families with children. We partner with FMF as hosts to these families several times a year. There are many opportunities for you to serve our guests during this challenging time in their lives: • provide a meal • bring cheer to kids • stay overnight • do laundry

Based upon the belief that the parent’s role is to lovingly set the stage for children to grow into successful adults, expert Katie Solem will lead this six-hour seminar for parents of children through age 12.

Gain new tools to: • raise emotionally healthy children • prepare children for the real world • empower children to problem-solve • calmly set age-appropriate limits

APRIL 13 • 8:30AM-2:30PM • WESTVIEW ROOM Cost: First Parent: $15; Second Parent: $10; Box Lunch: $10/person.

S TA FF SP OT LIGH T ERICA FERRIS HOMETOWN: Savage, MN FAMILY: husband, Matt (married 1 year) HOBBIES: baking, playing games, having coffee with friends (adults and teenagers)! FAVORITE AUTHOR: Jodi Picoult GUILTY PLEASURE: Talenti Caramel Cookie Crunch gelato

TELL US A BOUT HOW YOU CA ME TO WORK AT CPC. I had been feeling a nudge for change for about a year but had no idea what that change would be. I kept an open-handed posture and was just trusting that God would reveal it in His time. Then this position in Student Ministries opened, and I was so excited about it. I connected with Carrie, who also worked at a non-profit before coming to CPC, to see what that transition was like for her. I applied and got the job! It’s been a great opportunity for me to continue to hone skills I had developed at Young Life, like recruiting, training, and caring for our volunteer leaders, and planning weekend and summer camps. I get to step into those things here at CPC, and I love it.

HOW DO YOU HOPE TO HELP S TUDENTS DE V ELOP THEIR FA ITH? My goal since I have been in ministry has been to create a safe space for students to learn about who God is, while also giving them the freedom to push back and wrestle with doubts or questions they have about Jesus, what He did for them (and why!), the Bible, and faith. My hope is that every time a student leaves a Wednesday night in Westview, they have a better understanding of how deeply they are loved by God, and as that continues to happen, that they would begin to be transformed from the inside out.

W H AT H AV E YOU LE A RNED DURING THIS MINIS TRY Y E A R? Moving TEN12 back to CPC on Wednesday nights has been awesome—having all the grades together in one space laughing, worshiping, and learning together has been huge. We grow and learn when we are in community with different ages, cultures, and differences. Change is always hard, but I sense that people have embraced this change and have seen it as a good thing. In my role at Young Life, we met in homes, so creating a welcoming space in a church building is new for me. I have a huge heart for students who are not involved with any type of church or who have had a bad experience with the

church. So I’ve been dreaming about what it would look like for these students to step inside this church building and be greeted and welcomed by the church (followers of Christ), and for them to feel safe, worthy, and seen.

HOW CA N THE CONGREGATION COME A LONGSIDE S TUDENT MINIS TRIES? If you love Jesus and like students, you should totally volunteer! Your age doesn’t matter and research has shown that teenagers don't need someone who is “cool” but rather someone who will be warm with them. Our volunteer leaders are the backbone of what we do in student ministries. Wednesday night programming couldn’t happen without them. There are also lower commitment opportunities, like volunteering occasionally at our snack shop. It’s a different interaction but still really valuable for our students. Contact me (ericaf@cpconline.org) if you’re interested in volunteering! It’s also great when adults make high schoolers feel valued on Sunday mornings. Ask how they are, what they did this weekend, or what’s been bringing them joy lately. They get asked about school, sports, and their futures A LOT, so asking creative questions, listening to them, and making them feel heard and valued goes a long way toward them feeling cared for.

W H AT DO YOU NEED TO L AY DOW N IN ORDER TO TA K E UP JESUS? I need to lay down reliance on self in order to take up Jesus and the life He continually offers me. If I believe in the "perfect love that casts out all fear," then I need to continue laying these fears down to pick up that truth that a relationship with Jesus offers me.

E R I C A F E R R I S serves as A SSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF HIGH SCHOOL She has been on staff since 2018. CPC LIFE

LENT 2019

HAPPENINGS EVENTS FIRST STEPS

Sunday, March 17 • 10:30AM & 12:00PM • Room 200 Want to learn more about our church, staff, and programs? This informal time is a great place to hear about our community and how to get connected!

MID-MONTH CHAPEL SERVICE

Wednesdays, March 20 & April 17 • 12:00PM • Chapel A traditional service with a short message by Pastor Melissa Schaser in March and Matt Ferris in April, hymns, Communion, and prayers. Lunch follows in the Fellowship Hall in March and in Westview in April.

NAVIGATORS LIFE-TO-LIFE® DISCIPLESHIP CONFERENCE

Saturday, March 30 • 9:00AM-3:00PM • CPC What does discipleship really mean? Join CPC local missions partner, Navigators MSP, for a day-long conference that will foster growth and refreshment for all of us as disciples of Jesus, each in our individual seasons and contexts. We’d also love to minister to your kids (10 and under). Sign up: cpconline.org/events

THE JEWISH JESUS

Sunday, March 31 • 7:00PM• Fellowship Hall Please join us for a Lenten presentation on “The Jewish Jesus” by Dr. Nick Schaser. More details on page 8. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

CPC INTERGENERATIONAL CHOIR

Wednesdays, April 3-May 1 • 5:30-6:15PM • Choir Room Calling all singers—kindergarten through senior adults! Experience this one-of-a-kind choir singing praises to God across the generations. Choir sings on Sunday, May 5. No cost and no prior experience needed! Sign up: cpconline.org/events

TWO RIVERS CHORALE IN CONCERT

Friday, April 12 • 7:30PM • Sanctuary Join us for a free concert by the Two Rivers Chorale, under the direction of Timothy Sawyer, as they celebrate the gift of sharing music together and the beauty of home. A free-will offering will be taken.

EASTER FLOWERS

Due in main office by Friday, April 12 On Easter, our worship spaces are filled with flowers representing new life in Christ. Donate toward the purchase of plants in memory or honor of loved ones. Following Easter, plants are delivered to local seniors. Cost: $20/plant. Complete a form at the Blue Wall, Main Office, or at cpconline.org/events

PARENTING THE LOVE & LOGIC WAY

Saturday, April 13 • 8:30AM-2:30PM • Westview Expert Katie Solem will lead this six-hour seminar for parents—of children through age 12—to gain new tools to raise emotionally healthy children. More details on page 8. First Parent: $15; Second Parent: $10; Box Lunch: $10. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

HOLY WEEK EVENTS

Thursday, April 18-Saturday, April 20 See page 6 for a full listing.

LENT 2019

CPC LIFE

EASTER CELEBRATION SERVICES Saturday/Sunday, April 20/21 See back page for a full listing.

NEW MEMBER RETREAT

Friday, April 26 from 6:30-8:30PM and Saturday, April 27 from 9:00AM1:00PM • Anderson Hall The new member retreat is for those who are interested in making their connection to CPC more official by joining as members. Learn more and sign up: cpconline.org/events

MEET GOD ON YOUR MAT: HOLY YOGA

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

KIDS 2019 SUMMER CAMPS

Hope Shores: June 16-21 • kids entering grades 3-5 VBS: July 15-18 • kids age 3-entering grade 5 Summer Blitz: July 31 • kids entering grades 3-5 More details and sign up: cpconline.org/kids

SAVE THE DATES FOR 2019 SUMMER EVENTS Summer Launch Family Picnic: June 9 Meet Us at the Pool: June 26 Meet Us at the Park: July 2 VBS Family Picnic Dinner: July 18

WEEKEND PROGRAMS More details at

cpconline.org/weekend-programs.

Saturday 5:15PM service: Loving childcare provided (6 weeks-3 years) Sundays: Kids attending programming must check in at the Family Check-In area. All kids are welcome to pick up a worship/activity bag. Nursery (Infants & Toddlers): Loving childcare provided. Sprouts (2-year-olds): Play and learn about the Bible with weekly lessons and art projects. JAM (3-5-year-olds): Have fun and learn through Bible lessons, prayer, art, and worship. Elementary Programming (K-5th): 9:30 AM Sunday School Hour: Kids are grouped by their grade—K/1st, 2nd/3rd, or 4th/5th—and go deep into God’s Word in a fun and interactive way. 11:00AM Kids’ Church: Kids worship all together as a community and hear an age-appropriate Bible lesson. They then divide into grade groups for exploratory activities.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT: CHOIR & CLUB

Wednesdays (no program March 20 & 27) • 5:00-7:30PM Dinner (5:00-6:15PM): Enjoy dinner with your family and fellowship with other CPCers at our weekly dinner. Food options will change weekly. Choir for K-5th graders (5:30-6:15PM): Develop a love for music, learn biblical truths, and improve musical and dramatic skills, all while praising God! Kids participate in worship services and special programs.

CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515 Club for 2nd-5th graders (6:25-7:30PM): A dynamic mix of fun, learning, and prayer, Club encourages kids to grow in Christ and in friendships. All students in Grades 2-5 will start in the Westview Room for a time of fun, worship, and teaching. Then they split into smaller groups by age for community-building activities and to understand how God’s Word applies to their lives. Cost: $30/first child, $20/second child, $10/third child; max $60/family Sign up: cpconline.org/kids

FAMILY COMMUNION WORKSHOP

Sunday, April 7 • 4:00-6:00PM • Westview Students and their parents discover both the biblical beginnings and CPC’s tradition of taking Communion including a kid-friendly Seder dinner. Led by Nate Opsata, Associate Director of Elementary. Cost $5 per person. 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

2019 SUMMER CAMPS

Camp registration is open for all summer camps and service trips. Camps are offered for students in grades 6-12. Save the dates below: Camp 6:8: June 11-13 • students entering grades 6-8 Rockslide: June 24-28 • students entering grades 6-8 Quest: July 8-12 • students entering grade 9 Mission St. Louis: June 23-28 • students entering grades 9-12 Summit: July 31-August 5 • students entering grades 10-12 Sign up: cpconline.org/students

COMMITMENT CLASS SPRING RETREAT

Friday-Sunday, April 12-14 This weekend retreat is a required part of the Commitment Class experience. More details are available online. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

TEN12

Wednesdays (no program March 20 & 27; Service Learning April 3) 7:45-9:00PM • CPC A great night full of fun and an authentic space for kids to just be themselves. We start the night in Westview for large group learning followed by small group time to process the talk. If you have questions or want to register your student, reach out to ericaf@cpconline.org

SPECIAL NEEDS TAPESTRY

Tuesdays, March 19, April 2 & 16 • 6:30-7:30PM • Anderson Hall CPC’s ministry for kids and students with special needs explores who God is and how we can have a relationship with Him through Bible study, service projects, games, guest speakers, and story/drama. vanc@cpconline.org

MOSAIC WORSHIP SERVICE

Sundays, March 10 & April 14 • 10:45AM • Westview Mosaic celebrates that we are all children of God, and all are invited to worship God in our own way. This service is led mostly by students with special needs. Noises, sounds, and movements are welcome—they are all pleasing to God! Brunch is provided following worship for a time of fellowship and food. vanc@cpconline.org

MIDDLE SCHOOL

ADULTS

ACCESS

Wednesdays (no program March 20 & 27; Service Learning April 3) 6:25-7:30PM A high-energy, engaging program for 6th grade students. Awesome high school leaders lead small groups. Please make sure your student is regisbrooksw@cpconline.org tered.

ELEVATE

Wednesdays (no program March 20 & 27; Service Learning April 3) 6:25-7:30PM A night of fun large-group learning and small-group discussion for 7th-8th graders. Please make sure your student is registered. vanc@cpconline.org

HIGH SCHOOL COMMITMENT CLASS

Wednesdays (no program March 20 & 27; Service Learning April 3) 6:25-7:30PM • Anderson Hall check-in A night of fun, large-group learning, and small-group discussion for 9th graders. Please make sure your student is registered. ashleyc@cpconline.org

MIXED 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 (9:30AM - Room 116) •C ATALYST: couples with young children (9:30AM - Room 201 & 202) •M IXED TAPES: primarily 30s (9:30AM - Room 205) •S .A.L.T.: 40s & 50s (9:30AM - Fellowship Hall East) •A .C.T.S.: late 50s & up (9:20AM - Fellowship Hall Center) •M ORE: active retired (10:45AM - Fireside Room) •C REDO: intergenerational (10:45AM - Room 10) Learn more: cpconline.org/sunday-communities

IN THE WORD

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

LENT 2019

HAPPENINGS

WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY

TUESDAY AFTERNOON WOMEN’S STUDY

CPC BOOK CLUB

MOM’S MORNING (for moms of young children) LARGE GROUP Wednesdays, March 13 & 27, April 10 • 9:30-11:30AM • Westview On March 13, Matt Norman shares “How to Stay Intentional and Keep Growing.” March 27 is fellowship day! We’ll do Holy Yoga with Brooke Toftoy and create floral arrangements with Bridget Connell, co-owner of Haute Flower Boutique. On April 10, Dr. Linda Solie will teach practical psychological skills for “Taking Charge of Depression and Anxiety.” Program cost: $30; childcare cost: $25/child. Sign up: cpconline.org/moms-morning

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

Thursday, March 21 • 7:00PM • Room 204 We discuss Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate. sjschrader@aol.com

LENTEN SMALL GROUPS

Tuesdays • 6:45-8:00PM • Room 302 OR Thursdays • 12:00-1:00PM • Room 202 These short-term groups are a great way to connect with others and try a small group experience. The groups will use the Lenten study guide that follows the sermon series: “Lay Down & Take Up.” Study guides available in the Great Room. cpconline.org/groups

SMALL GROUPS

CPC offers a variety of small groups to help you connect with others and to deepen your relationship with Jesus. For more details and to sign up, visit cpconline.org/groups. • 30s Couples: Once a month • after 11:00AM Sunday worship service • CPC • 20s & 30s: 2nd & 4th Tuesdays • 7:00-8:30PM • CPC • Soul Keepers (50s & up): Every other Wednesday • 7:00-8:30PM • St. Louis Park • Couples with Kids: First Thursdays • 7:00-8:30PM • Member homes • Christ in Career: 1st and 3rd Saturdays • 8:30-10:00AM • CPC • 40s-50s Couples: Alternate Sunday and Thursdays twice a month • 7:15–8:45PM • Member homes

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

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

LARGE GROUP Thursday, April 11 • 9:45-11:30AM • Anderson Hall Back by popular demand, members of MN Adult & Teen Challenge share stories of “Addiction, Struggle, Faith, and Hope.” Learn what our teens are facing today and how to communicate with them. Cost: $5 at the door. For more details: cpconline.org/moms-in-the-middle

SMALL GROUPS

CPC offers a variety of small groups to help you connect with others and to deepen your relationship with Jesus. For more details and to sign up, visit cpconline.org/groups. •M onday Evening Moms’ Group: 1st Mondays • nearby home • Wednesday Night Moms’ Group: 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wednesdays 6:15-7:30PM • CPC •Y oung Women’s Group: gathering interest for new group

OLDER ADULTS

MEN CIRCLES (women

SMALL GROUPS

CPC offers a variety of small groups to help you connect with others and to deepen your relationship with Jesus. For more details and to sign up, visit cpconline.org/groups. • Tuesday Morning Group: Tuesdays • 6:45-7:45AM • CPC • The Dads’ Group: Wednesdays • 6:30-7:30PM • CPC • Thursday Morning Groups: Thursdays • 7:00-8:00AM • CPC • Friday Guys’ Group: Fridays • 6:10-7:00AM • Calvary Church in Edina

WOMEN WOMEN IN THE WORD

Mondays starting April 15 • 9:30-11:30AM • Anderson Hall In Twelve Women of the Bible, Lysa TerKeurst will help you discover spiritual lessons from biblical women like Hannah and Mary Magdalene that will encourage you to persevere through the circumstances you are facing today. Meetings include DVD teaching, small group conversation, fellowship, and prayer. Cost: $10. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

NEEDLEWORK GUILD

Saturday, April 13 • 10:00AM-2:00PM • Fellowship Hall Our mission is to make warm garments and blankets for local agencies that serve those in need. We have yarn, fabric, and knitters to get you started. Cleo Wedge at 952.922.2769

LENT 2019

CPC LIFE

60+) Circles combine fellowship, learning, and service in a small group setting. Guests and new members always welcome! ESTHER CIRCLE Wednesday, April 3 • 10:00AM • in a nearby home All women are welcome to join us for a Bible study on prayer and fellowship. shellienw@gmail.com LYDIA & MARTHA CIRCLES Wednesdays, March 20 & April 17 • 10:30AM • Room 113 Judy Romine 952.929.4983; Pat Haberkorn at 952.941.4188 RUTH CIRCLE Meets every Wednesday • 9:30AM On the first and third Wednesdays, we meet in a home for food, fellowship, devotions, and prayers. On the other Wednesdays, we serve at Feed My Starving Children and at CPC. Barb Bucha at 952.470.4414

HORIZONS (ACTIVE RETIRED-AGE)

Sunday, March 31 • 7:00PM• Fellowship Hall Horizons is an inviting community of active retirement-age singles and couples, experiencing and sharing the good we see all around us! Please join us for a Lenten presentation on “The Jewish Jesus” by Dr. Nick Schaser. We’ll explore the meaning of Jesus’ Jewishness and the Judaic background of our Christian faith, the history of the first-century Christian church, the Jewish context of the New Testament, and a biblically-centered approach to modern Jewish-Christian relations. Sign up: Great Room on Sunday mornings or cpconline.org/events

CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515

EDYNAMOES

Wednesday, March 27 • 11:30AM • Fellowship Hall Welcome spring with lunch and a program that will feature “Showtime,” a group of 20 volunteer singers from the northwestern metro. They will sing pop tunes from yesteryear and current ones, too! A delicious meal will be prepared and served by the CPC Staff led by Souper Pastor Rich! Cost: $5. Please bring Jerry’s cash receipts and pop can tabs. Sign up by Sunday, March 24: Cleo Wedge at 952.922.2769

CARE GROUPS LGBTQ FAMILY GROUP

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

GRIEF RECOVERY

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

GRACE & HOPE FOR OUR CHILDREN

Tuesdays, March 19 & April 16 • 7:00-8:30PM • Room 306 • meets 3rd Tuesdays Does your child experience emotional or mental health issues? You are not alone. Join other parents, friends, and caregivers as we care for one another on our journeys. Meetings include support, fellowship, and occasional guest speakers. dbrown@dcbrowninc.com

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

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

FAMILIES MOVING FORWARD

March 17-24 CPC will welcome our guests experiencing homelessness in March. We know that shelter is a temporary solution, but is necessary while families work with FMF to secure stable housing, preferably within 60 days of enrolling in the program. There are many opportunities for you to serve our guests during this challenging time in their lives: provide a meal, bring some encouragement and cheer to the children, stay overnight, do laundry and more. Sign up: cpconline.org /events

NEAR BLOOMINGTON LOAVES AND FISHES

Fridays, March 15 & April 19 • Third Friday of the month, year-round; Meal Prep: 2:00-4:00PM, Serve: 5:00-7:00PM • Creekside Community Center Individuals, small groups, and families with children are welcome! Meal Prep is best for volunteers ages 16 and older while serving is best for volunteers ages 7 and older. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

CALVARY DROP-IN MEALS

Sundays, March 24 & April 28 • 12:30-3:00PM • Calvary Church, 2608 Blaisdell Ave S, Minneapolis Help prepare a meal, serve food, and visit with guests. Nearly 100 guests, many of whom are homeless, are invited to rest, watch the ball game, converse, or share in a friendly game of cards. Adult and child volunteers age 9 and up can sign up to volunteer online. Children under age 9 are welcome, but do not need to be registered. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

FAR

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

Saturday, March 23 (Fireside Room), Fridays, March 8 & April 12 (Anderson Hall) • 10:00AM to 12:00PM • Usually Meets 2nd Friday and 4th Saturday of the month but varies at holidays This ministry seeks to share God’s love, comfort, and peace through the knitting and gifting of shawls. Prayers for the recipient are knit into each shawl. Newcomers are welcome and tutoring is provided. Janice Velgersdyk at 612.986.5902

S.T.A.R.S.

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

SERVE HERE LOVE JESUS AND LOVE KIDS?

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

NEW! OI COLOMBIA GO!TRIP

Trip Dates: June 24-29 While CPC and Opportunity International have been mission partners for almost 30 years, this is our first time visiting Colombia together. Join us and witness firsthand how Opportunity Colombia is enabling marginalized people—especially women—to engage in the local economy, overcome extreme poverty, and build stronger communities. We are devoted to building community by having daily prayerful reflections on this trip as we consider how Jesus calls us into deeper relationship as we seek to love our global neighbors. Expect to return home inspired, encouraged, and forever changed. Sign up: cpconline.org/serve-far

MISSION PARTNERS MISSION OF THE MONTH

Young Life Capernaum of Greater Minneapolis is our mission of the month for March. Capernaum’s mission is to serve adolescents with different abilities, introducing them to Jesus Christ and helping them grow in their faith in the context of friendship, club meetings, special events, and camp trips. Visit them at the Blue Wall to learn more. Mark your check memo Mission of the Month or give online: cpconline.org/give

CPC LIFE

LENT 2019

Transition Pastor Search We are excited to report that the Transition Pastor Search Team has completed their second round of interviews with the final candidates for the position of Transition Pastor. We hope to make an announcement introducing our new Transition Pastor in the near future and to have our Transition Pastor in place by the beginning of April. We are incredibly grateful to the Transition Pastor Search Team, led by Dennis Hykes and Leslie Turner, for the tremendous amount of time and effort they have patiently and sacrificially devoted to this important part of our transition journey. Their careful, thoughtful, and prayerful approach in discerning God’s will for CPC, along with the framework they’ve built, will assist us in the work ahead for the Senior Pastor Search Team. As we move with anticipation into the next phase of the transition, the Assimilation Team, led by Kim and Mark Thompson, is working closely with Mara Amiot, Executive Director, and Petey Crowder, Executive Pastor, to make sure that we do a great job of welcoming our new Transition Pastor. Plans include time during a worship service to bless the season our Transition Pastor will be with us, and meet-and-greet sessions with the congregation and staff. Rich and Jody Phenow are serving as staff liaisons for our Assimilation Team.

Senior Pastor Search Committee We received many excellent nominations for candidates to serve on our Senior Pastor Search Team. Thank you! The Personnel Committee of Session is reviewing the nominations and will recommend a team to the full Session. Session will present a team to be approved at a congregational meeting expected to take place in April. The Senior Pastor Search Team will then begin the search for our new Senior Pastor.

YOUR GIVING MATTERS!

Your generosity is what fuels the ministry of CPC, and last fall we challenged our congregation to increase their financial giving by 5%. We want to thank our giving partners for their commitment and investment in CPC and to our flourishing future.

Number of households who increased their pledge: 289 Collective increase in giving commitments: 6% First-time pledgers: 43

Total amount pledged: $3,418,342

BECOME A GIVING PARTNER!

You can become a giving partner at any time of the year! The easiest way to give is by automating your giving online at cpconline.org/give. Want to talk to a person to set up your giving commitment? Contact David Peterson, Finance Manager, at davidp@cpconline.org or 952.920.8515 x206.

IRA CHARITABLE ROLLOVER

If you are age 70½ or older and are required to take an annual Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from your standard IRA, which is normally taxable, you may have all or part of your RMD distributed directly to CPC as a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD), which is not taxable. This may result in significant tax savings. Consult with your IRA custodian or financial advisor about how to do this. CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

BIRTHS

Seth and Alyssa Warren welcomed a daughter, Paige Noelle, on January 19.

MARRIAGES

Tina Semsch and Alex Hoppe were married on January 12. The Rev. Richard Phenow officiated.

DEATHS

Dennis Jacobsen passed away on December 18 at the age of 80 years. He is survived by daughter Carolyn (Rob) McKay and grandchildren Christopher and Jake. Jack Morrow passed away on December 29 at the age of 95 years. He is survived by his wife, former CPC staff member, Jackie Morrow. Avery Lundeen, newborn granddaughter of Beverly Lundeen, passed away on December 30. John Haas, former CPC pastor, passed away on January 1 at the age of 73 years. He is survived by his wife, Rev. Carolyn McBean.

Pastor Lawrence Temfwe, Executive Director of Jubilee Centre, a CPC Missions Partner, passed away on February 11. As the leader of Jubilee Centre, Lawrence forged a network of churches in Lusaka, Zambia, that today are living an ethic of holistic mission, one that emphasizes both evangelism and social responsibility. Jubilee Centre churches stand in the gap for under-resourced communities, and Lawrence was critical for shaping and empowering that vision in Zambian church leaders. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Martha, children, grandchildren, Jubilee Centre staff and churches, and many international friends and partners. Join us in praying for those who mourn his loss and for wisdom for Jubilee Centre leadership in the coming months.

RECENTLY HOSPITALIZED Nikki Abramson Dinny Anderson Gary Burke Joyce Jecha

Karen Seeger Justine VanBeenen Wendy Sheaer Marty Wade George Sverdrup Dana Widstrom Kelly Tritz

STAFF UPDATES

Thomas Conner passed away on January 10 at the age of 93 years. He is survived by son Tom (Kristen) and grandchildren Justin, Claire, William, and Kaitlyn.

In connection with the budget adjustments made last spring, our staff was asked to take a week of unpaid leave during our current fiscal year. We are pleased to announce that through the generous donations we've received from our congregation, the unpaid leave days for staff pay are being restored.

George Cole passed away on January 11 at the age of 96 years. He is survived by daughters Candy (Jim) DeLong and Cheri.

To connect with John or Laura Crosby, please use the following emails: johnc@cpconline.org (John) or lauracrosby.mn@gmail.com (Laura).

Erik Erling passed away on January 15 at the age of 91. He is survived by his wife Carolyn, son Steve (Lois), and grandchildren Julie (Bill) Forelli, David (Katy), and Powl.

FINANCIAL UPDATE

D. Kenneth â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kenâ&#x20AC;? Lindgren passed away on January 16. He is survived by children Carol Mathie, Chris, and Charlie, and grandchildren Hayley and Becker Mathie. Joyce Jecha passed away on January 17 at the age of 82 years. She is survived by children Steve and Jo. Amy Eldora Kinnischtzke passed away on January 20 at the age of 94 years. She is survived by her daughter Karen Morrow and granddaughter Katie Morrow.

Missions YTD Total Missions Giving: $280,959 Ministry Fund Revenue/Expense Update December 2018 YTD Revenue Actual: $2,786,868 December 2018 YTD Revenue Budget: $2,850,451 January 2019 YTD Revenue Actual: $3,129,219 January 2019 YTD Revenue Budget: $3,196,822 YTD (12/31/2018) We are behind on giving revenue by $67,603. We are under on expenses by $149,519.

CPC LIFE

LENT 2019

EASTER CELEBRA T ION S ERV ICES EASTER SATURDAY – CONTEMPORARY Saturday, April 20 at 5:15PM A Saturday evening version of the Sunday morning Easter Contemporary worship, led by the Contemporary Worship Team, with a meditation by Petey Crowder. Childcare: 6 weeks-3 years.

EASTER SUNDAY – SUNRISE Sunday, April 21 at 6:00AM As the sun rises, we celebrate the resurrection with singing, Orthodox traditions, Communion, and a meditation by Rich Phenow. Dress casually to walk outside! No childcare.

EASTER SUNDAY – TRADITIONAL Sunday, April 21 at 8:00 & 9:15AM Traditional services celebrating the resurrection with music by the choir and instruments, and a meditation from Petey Crowder. Childcare: 6 weeks-3 years.

EASTER SUNDAY – CONTEMPORARY Sunday, April 21 at 10:30 & 11:45AM The Contemporary Worship Team leads a celebration of the resurrection, with a meditation from Petey Crowder. Childcare: 6 weeks-3 years.