’ve been reminiscing these past months on why I felt called into ministry and how Laura and I have had the privilege of being at CPC almost 30 years . . . and then considering what God has for me in the future. When we’re at a crossroads, it can be easy to be preoccupied with our wants and needs. It brought to mind a coffee I shared with a successful professional. He bluntly stated, “How come I have everything I want and don’t seem to have what I need?” I told him he wasn’t alone, that his disease didn’t originate in the liver or esophagus but in the soul. And then I invited him on a journey. Together we read Soul Keeping and underlined this quote from Dallas Willard: “The most important thing in your life is not what you do; it’s who you become. That’s what you will take into eternity. You are an unceasing spiritual being with an eternal destiny in God’s great universe.” Who are we becoming? And how do we flourish, here and now? Our problem is that this world does not teach us to pay attention to what matters. John Ortberg observed, “We circulate résumés that chronicle what we have accomplished, not who we have become. . . . The world conspires against our souls, keeping our lives superficial.”
“The most important thing in your life is not what you do; it’s who you become. . . .” Who are we becoming? And how do we flourish, here and now?
My friend is still on the journey, with me and a couple of others. I see small signs of a life that’s flourishing: A renewed love for wife and kids. A growing humility at work. A generosity he’d have thought lunacy a year ago. A growing hunger to hear God speak, whether through Scripture or prayer or the gathering of his new friends. And in small, flickering ways, a contentedness rooted in HOPE, hope like the Apostle Paul describes: “Hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit which has been given to us” (Romans 5:5, RSV). This month we’re going to talk about FLOURISHING and how CPC wants to partner with you in the work of God. As we head toward Thanksgiving, I’m praying that part of the legacy we’ll leave in this community is a growing number of hearts that share with outrageous generosity, serve with creativity, and joyously seek Jesus . . . flourishing within as we live out our eternal destiny!
JOHN CROSBY serves as S E N I O R P A S T O R
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We long to grow in our relationship with Jesus, but sometimes we feel stuck, uncertain of how to move forward. Below are recommendations from our staff of tools you can use to deepen your faith and create some space in which God can act in your life.
D E VOT I ONAL S Pray as You Go The Inner Voice of Love by Henri Nouwen Seeking God’s Face: Praying with the Bible through the Year Each daily reading includes a psalm of praise, a passage of Scripture, and a brief set of prayers.
This is Henri Nouwen’s “secret journal,” written during the most difficult period of his life, when he suddenly lost his self-esteem, his energy to live and work, his sense of being loved, even his hope in God. For all those who wonder, who wander, who hurt and who need, this book is an answer, a guide, a helper and friend.
Saving Grace by C. John Miller With topics like forgiveness, relationships, temptation, prayer, joy, and perseverance—this daily devotional presents a hope-filled vision for living in light of the Gospel.
B O O KS
Creates a framework for your own prayer through a combination of music, Scripture, and some questions for reflection.
YouVersion Bible Tons of reading plans and devotionals (that you can do with others!).
WEB SIT ES Everybody Always by Bob Goff The remarkable breadth of Goff’s experiences and his humility help demonstrate his principle for “becoming love” and make it resonate with readers.
Mockingbird: mbird.com Mockingbird seeks to connect the Christian faith with the realities of everyday life in fresh and down-toearth ways.
APPS Keylife.org Liturgy of the Ordinary by Tish Harrison Warren
Sacred Space
Framed around one ordinary day, this book explores daily life through the lens of liturgy, small practices, and habits that form us.
This app guides you through a prayer session in six stages, drawing you to God’s presence and toward a deeper relationship with Jesus.
Key Life exists to communicate that the deepest message of the ministry of Jesus and the Bible is the radical grace of God to sinners and sufferers. Because life is hard for everyone, grace is for all of us.
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Generosity is about a community discovering how to turn from the fear of not having enough to finding contentment in giving. Generosity is a joyful response to the love we’ve received from Jesus—a chance to open our hearts, our calendars, and our wallets in ways that go beyond reason. This is the generosity God desires for us, and a generosity that will fuel CPC for a flourishing future. When you give financially to CPC, you become a partner in what we’re doing, and more important, a partner in what God is doing through us. This November we’re asking you to become a Giving Partner at CPC, committed and invested to a flourishing future.
Commitment Cards are mailed in November.
We’re asking all households to increase their giving. Pray and reflect on how God is calling you to respond.
Please return Commitment Cards to CPC or commit online at cpconline.org/give.
Ways to Give CAS H O R C R EDIT CA R D
IR A CH ARITAB L E RO L LOVER
M ARKETAB L E SECURI TI E S
Gifts of cash and check can be given during our offering or online. It is also very easy to automate your giving, either through your checking account or credit/debit card. You can do so by filling out the commitment cards mailed in November, or online at cpconline.org/give.
If you are age 70 1/2 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.
Marketable Securities are another easy way to contribute. Gifts of appreciated stock are beneficial to both the giver and CPC. The giver is able to make a gift that does not affect cash flow, avoids capital gains tax, and often allows the donor to give a larger gift from a smaller original investment.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT DAVID PETERSON, FINANCE MANAGER, AT DAVIDP@CPCONLINE.ORG OR 952.920.8515 X206.
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Help others experience the joy of giving! This year CPC is partnering with Lighthouse MPLS Church to provide 3,000 gifts for the Webber Park Community’s Gift Store.
There are many ways you can help make Christmas affordable! PROVIDE ORGANIZE ASSIST
On November 17/18 and 24/25, pick up a gift selection card after services. Return gifts to CPC between December 1-9. Join us on December 11 to sort and box the gifts for delivery to the Webber Gift Store. Help community members select and purchase gifts at the Webber Gift Store on December 14-15. (Limited slots available for adults only.)
Learn more at cpconline.org/events.
AN CHURCH CHRIST PRESBYTERI
The holiday boutique is back! S AT U R DAY, N O V E M B E R
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from 9 : 0 0 A M - 4 : 0 0 P M at C P C Come with your Christmas lists to shop for unique gifts made by more than 100 artists. Purchase a soup lunch or Christmas cookies to support CPC mission partners and funding for our Choral Scholar Program.
LINDSEY SMALL SHARES HOW A CPC TRIP TO ISRAEL IMPACTED HER FAITH
Lindsey at the Sea of Galilee
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used to watch CPC commission people to go out on missions, and I thought they were so much more devout and Christian than me and that I would never be someone to go on a mission trip. I was actually approached by a younger couple about a trip to Congo a few years ago, but I was too intimidated to go. But that invitation planted a seed. On New Year’s Day I was praying about opening my heart and asking God to show me something new to invest in this year. I wanted to deepen my connection to the church, and I looked at the GO!Trips on my phone. The Israel and Palestine trip had a “register now” button, and I signed up! I just felt really pushed and led to apply, though it was rather impulsive. I think this trip changed the way I view missions. I love to travel, and the trip is very travel-oriented, but you’re also helping encourage and minister to Christians in a place where it’s really hard to be a Christian. You’re restoring them and giving them encouragement, praying with them and praying over them. I probably prayed more in those two weeks—out loud, anyway—than ever in my life. But you’re also walking through the holy sites with a Palestinian Christian and there are Jews and Muslims and Christians all around you, coming to see the holiest places in the world for all three faiths. Seeing these holy sites completely changed how I read the Bible, how I hear the Easter story. It changed the feeling I have when I take Communion, because I sat outside the tomb wall in Jerusalem and received Communion from my pastors. The trip gave me such a good, grounding perspective on where biblical events were and what it looked like—it brought the Bible to life in full color. During this series on the Beatitudes, I’ve been pulling out my phone and looking at my pictures of the Sea of Galilee. I can remember the sensory feelings of being there on that hill. The birds were singing, and the weather was a bit tumultuous, but that’s how it’s depicted in the Bible. I remember saying to my roommate, “I can see why Jesus liked it here.” For the majority of my adult years, I’ll have this gift of viewing the Bible through a new lens. I like intergenerational worship. I like learning from kids and from older adults. That’s always one of the things I’ve loved about CPC and that was the neatest part of the trip. The intergenerational mix was so perspective-giving, from little things like not getting stressed out about work, to big things like faith or a knowledge of the Israel-Palestine conflict that goes back 30-40 years. It was so valuable to me. And now there’s a whole group of friends that I get to see on weekends after church who I wasn’t even aware of before. When you travel with someone, you get to know them in a different way. So, the relationships I developed—especially with Pastors Jody and Rich Phenow—will, and have already, helped me grow in my faith. The care that they can provide me now that they know me, and I know them, is different than it was before. They’ve already helped me unlock opportunities to use the gifts God’s given me to serve this congregation. There are a million reasons why someone in my life stage would say “I can’t go—I have kids or I can’t miss work or it’s expensive.” There are a lot of totally valid reasons to say no, and I said a lot of them. But I’m so glad I went. I felt like I went to a dear friend’s hometown. I got to walk the roads Jesus walked, peer over mountains He looked over, and understand better what life was like where my Savior lived. It made Him feel more real, tangible, and alive. It made Him more human—and isn’t that everything? My relationship with Jesus is deeper now. This trip will always be a marking moment for me. I hope everyone gets a chance to go!
YOU CAN READ ABOUT THE ROLE COMMUNITY HAS PLAYED IN LINDSEY’S FAITH JOURNEY AT cpconline.org/lindsey.
Don’t Miss Your Chance to See the Holy Land! Israel-Palestine GO!Trip • May 2-13, 2019 (tentative)
• Walk in Jesus’ footsteps in Nazareth, Bethlehem, and Jerusalem, including visits to the Sea of Galilee, the Garden of Gethsemane, and the Wailing Wall • Learn both the biblical history and the current landscape of Israel and Palestine
• Build relationships with our partners, see how they are working to create a hopeful response to the current conflict, and learn how God is inviting you to participate in peacemaking •M ake lasting friendships with other CPCers
Want to learn more? • GO!Trip Informational Meeting Sunday, November 11 • 10:30AM or 12:00PM • Room 205
S TA FF SP OT LIGH T N ATE OPSATA HOMETOWN: Luverne, MN FAMILY: wife, Jaynie; kids, Neve (10) and Liam (6) HOBBIES: travel, gardening, playing sports with the kids, and skiing FAVORITE BOOKS: Lord of the Rings trilogy TV SHOW: Doctor Who GUILTY PLEASURES: obsessed with using my home espresso maker
W HERE W ERE YOU SERV ING IN MINIS TRY BEFORE CPC? I was the youth pastor at the Twin City Chinese Christian Church and was ordained there. I took two years off, pretty intentionally, and it was really nice being with my kids more before Liam went to school. Kathleen [Selje, Director of Kids’ Ministries] convinced me in January to, as I say, “exit retirement” and join the Kids’ Team. Since I have a fifth grader and a first grader, I have a vested interest in seeing the kids’ ministry thrive, so here I am!
W H AT INFLUENCE H A S YOUR B ACKGROUND H A D ON CPC K IDS ’ PROGR A MMING? Truthfully, I teach the fourth and fifth graders as though they’re high school kids. You can only do about 20 minutes of content with them instead of 40 minutes, but I don’t really treat them like little kids. I also talked the Kids’ Team into doing more of a youth group format on Wednesday nights, so the large group time with 2nd-5th graders (The Gathering) kind of mimics youth group. We really like the energy on Wednesday nights using Westview, with everyone being together and then breaking into small groups.
HOW DO YOU FEEL YOU’RE FLOURISHING RIGHT NOW? I’m a fairly even-keeled person. Sometimes we think of flourishing as being on this hilltop. But I think it can just be doing what God calls us to do. Even though fourth and fifth grade isn’t what I originally was feeling called to, I’m still
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teaching God’s Word every week. I’m building relationships with kids and giving them opportunities to be the church right now, to know who Christ is, and to see Him change their lives.
W H AT ELSE E XCITES YOU A BOUT K IDS ’ MINIS TRIES? On Wednesday nights we have five or six adult volunteers that are there every week as community leaders—building relationships and leading small groups. I see them flourishing. They are excited to be there and aren’t just volunteering because they have to. And they aren’t just doing crowd control or on the peripheral of the room. They are with the kids, doing ministry.
W H AT H A S GOD BEEN TE ACHING YOU L ATELY? He’s trying to teach me to articulate the Gospel more clearly. Especially teaching how we’ve been forgiven by Christ’s death for us—but then, how does that change how we live? The easy answer is to go with the simple truth that Christ died for me, so I want to live differently. But there’s a further step, which is that the Holy Spirit changes us and empowers us to live rightly. Working with fourth and fifth graders helps me not take the Gospel for granted because I have to try to clearly articulate these messages for them.
N A T E O P S A T A serves as A S S O C I A T E D I R E C T O R of E L E M E N T A R Y (4th and 5th grade)
Thank you, Squeegee Squad! CPC (and the Facilities Team) was incredibly blessed by the generosity of Joe Antonello, the owner of a local Squeegee Squad. Joe donated the supplies and workers to clean our Sanctuary windows—simply from a desire to support the work of our church and the ministry that occurs within our walls. The team spent several hours here, tackling the difficult work of cleaning our large windows inside and out. We are grateful for this unexpected gift and blessing!
HAPPENINGS EVENTS FIRST STEPS
Sunday, November 11 • 10:30AM & 12:00PM • Room 200 This informal time is a great place to hear about our community and how to get connected! Light breakfast refreshments will be served.
STORYLAB
Tuesday, November 13 • 7:00-8:30PM • Rooms 201-202 Sharing stories reminds us that God is active in us and through us. Join Jeannine Kellogg, author of The Tukor’s Journey and Pastor Jake Kirchner and learn to tell God’s story and yours. Jeannine will share some how-tos of storytelling, then you’ll have a chance to reflect on a story in your life that you could “dare to share” with others. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE
Saturday, November 17 • 9:00AM-4:00PM • CPC The CPC Holiday Boutique returns to our newly-remodeled spaces! Come with your Christmas lists to shop for unique gifts made by over 100 artists. A soup lunch will be available for purchase. All CPC proceeds are used to support mission and ministry work and funding for our Choral Scholar program. cpconline.org/events
20s & 30s FRIENDSGIVING
Sunday, November 18 • 5:00PM • Pastor Petey Crowder’s House Join us for a pre-Thanksgiving feast! Singles, couples, professionals, and students—you’re invited to come hang out and connect with others. Text “20sand30s” to 555888 for 20s and 30s event reminders. The turkey will be provided but you bring the sides! This event is kid-friendly. Details and sign up: cpconline.org/events
THE ONCE AND FUTURE CHURCH: 30 YEARS BACK, 7 YEARS AHEAD
Sunday, November 25 • 9:30-10:30AM OR 10:45AM-11:45PM • Westview Room Come hear Pastor John Crosby reflect on the history of the global Church, how it is changing, and what might lie ahead. Note: Sunday Communities will not meet this week. cpconline.org/events
ADVENT CELEBRATION
Wednesday, November 28 • 6:25PM • CPC Join us for a contemporary Advent service in the Sanctuary or a kids Advent experience in Westview, followed by festivities in the Great Room. cpconline.org/events
CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL SERVICE
Tuesday, December 4 • 7:00PM • Sanctuary Begin Advent with a time to honor those you have lost over the years and set your heart on the coming Messiah. Dessert follows in the Great Room.
WOMEN’S CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
Saturday, December 8 • 9:00-11:00AM • Westview Room Join women of all ages for brunch, music, laughter, and Christmas insights from an unlikely source in God's Word. Laura Crosby speaks on “Holiday Help from Hanging with Sheep” to help you discover that you’re invaluable, not invisible and how you can be festive in the field where God has you.
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Plus, Katy Crosby will share her faith story and Sara Lightbody will provide inspiring holiday music. Cost: $15. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
ADVENT/CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS
Due in the office by Wednesday, December 12 To donate toward CPC’s beautiful poinsettias and greens in memory or in honor of someone, fill out a form in the office, at the Blue Wall, or at cpconline.org/events. Suggested donation: $15 per plant.
MID-MONTH CHAPEL SERVICE
No service in November due to Thanksgiving.
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 WEEKEND PROGRAMS
No preschool or elementary programming on November 25. 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. Kids attending a worship service are welcome to pick up a worship/activity bag. An offering is collected during both hours of programming and will be donated to La Charite School in the Congo.
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 programs on November 21 & 28) • 5:00-7:30PM Families are invited to participate in our Advent celebration on November 28. 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 throughout the year. 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 the Gathering: a large group time of worship and a Bible lesson. Then they’ll split into smaller groups by age for community-building activities
CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515 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
and how we can have a relationship with Him through Bible study, service projects, games, guest speakers, and story/drama. vanc@cpconline.org
FUN FRIDAY WITH CPC KIDS
MOSAIC WORSHIP SERVICE
Friday, November 16 • 4:30-7:30PM • Sky Zone, Edina CPC Kids' Ministry heads to Edina’s new Sky Zone for our fall drop-off event. Kids: bring your friends! Parents: enjoy some free time! Grades: K-5. Cost: $25 Sign up: cpconline.org/kids
STUDENTS
Sunday, November 18 • 10:45AM • Westview Room 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 vanc@cpconline.org fellowship and food.
ADULTS
REGISTRATION
All 6th-12th graders must register in order to participate in Student Ministries programs and small groups. Sign up: cpconline.org/students
MIDDLE SCHOOL ACCESS
Wednesdays (no program on November 21) • 6:25-7:30PM Students and families: join us for our Advent celebration on November 28! A high-energy, engaging program for 6th grade students. Awesome high school leaders lead small groups. Please make sure your student is registered. brooksw@cpconline.org
ELEVATE
Wednesdays (no program on November 21) • 6:25-7:30PM Students and families: join us for our Advent celebration on November 28! 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 on November 21) • 6:25-7:30PM • Anderson Hall Students and families: join us for our Advent celebration on November 28! A night of fun, large-group learning, and small-group discussion for 9th graders. Please make sure your student is registered. carrieg@cpconline.org
TEN12
Wednesdays (no program on November 21) • 7:45-9:00 PM • CPC Students and families: join us for our Advent celebration on November 28 at 6:25PM! 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 what you just heard. If you have questions or want to register your student, reach out to ericaf@cpconline.org
SPECIAL NEEDS TAPESTRY
Tuesdays, November 6 & 20 • 6:30-7:30PM • Anderson Hall CPC’s ministry for kids and students with special needs explores who God is
MIXED 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
SUPERNATURAL PARENTING
Wednesdays (no class on November 21 & 28) • 6:25-7:30PM • Fellowship Hall Drop off your kids at Club and gain insight and encouragement for this high calling of being a mom or dad. We’re so excited to partner with our own CPCer, Becky Danielson—national speaker, author, educator—who will lead a faith-filled parenting class. This is a year-long class—come when you can! Childcare will be provided for 1st grade and under. Cost: $40 for materials. Sign up: cpconline.org/classes
WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY
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
SUNDAY COMMUNITIES
Sundays (special John Crosby event on November 25) • 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 - Fellowship Hall West) •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
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: cpconline.org/groups. • 20s & 30s: 2nd, 4th, & 5th Tuesdays • 7:30-9:00PM • South Minneapolis • Soul Keepers (50s & up): Every other Wednesday • 7:00-8:30PM • St. Louis Park CPC LIFE
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HAPPENINGS
CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515
• 30s Couples: First Thursdays • 7:00-8:30PM • Member homes • Christ in Career: 1st & 3rd Saturdays • 8:30-10:00AM • CPC • 40s-50s Couples: Alternate Sunday and Thursdays twice a month • 7:15-8:45PM • Member homes
MEN 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: cpconline.org/groups. • Wednesday Morning Group: Wednesdays • 6:30AM • 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 • SAM (Saturday AM) Group: Saturdays • 8:00-9:30AM • CPC
WOMEN NEEDLEWORK GUILD
Saturday, November 10 • 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. Sally Stoutenburgh at 952.927.6915
TUESDAY AFTERNOON WOMEN’S STUDY
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
MOM’S MORNING (for moms of young children)
LARGE GROUP 2nd & 4th Wednesdays • 9:30-11:30AM • Westview Room On November 14 and 28, Katie Solem will share “Parenting with Love & Logic.” Part one will explore how empathy, sharing control, and letting your kids live in the consequences of their mistakes will be important preparation for life. In part two, we will flesh out the importance of setting firm limits and boundaries with kids. Limited childcare available. Program cost: $60; childcare cost: $55/child. Sign up: cpconline.org/large-groups SMALL GROUP Meet 1st, 3rd & 5th Wednesdays (no small groups November 21) • 9:3011:30AM Groups allow you to develop deeper relationships through Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and Christ-centered support. Limited childcare available. Childcare cost: $55/child. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups
MOMS IN THE MIDDLE (for moms of tweens and teens)
•W ednesday Night Moms’ Group: 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wednesdays • 6:157:30PM • CPC
OLDER ADULTS CIRCLES (women
60+) Circles combine fellowship, learning, and service in a small group setting. Guests and new members always welcome! ESTHER CIRCLE Thursday, December 6 • 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 No meeting in November. Our next meeting is on December 19. 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)
Saturday, December 8 • 6:30PM • Fellowship Hall Horizons is an inviting community of active retirement-age singles and couples, experiencing and sharing the good we see all around us! Celebrate Christmas with a delicious meal and musical entertainment provided by After 5, a vocal jazz and swing group. Cost: $25. Sign up: debc@cpconline.org
EDYNAMOES
Wednesday, December 5 • 11:30 AM • Fellowship Hall Join us for a holiday lunch followed by a delightful Norwegian musical program presented by mother-daughter team Jan Ulvin and Rachel Jensen. They play the Hardanger fiddle and wear the traditional bunad costume. Cost: $5. Please bring Jerry’s cash receipts and pop/can tabs. Cash/toy donations for Christmas will be collected. Sign up by December 2: 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
LARGE GROUP Thursday, December 6 • 9:45-11:30AM • Anderson Hall Bev Coniaris, former BSF Teaching Leader, encourages us with “Christmas Through the Eyes of Jesus’ Parents.” Also, be inspired by a demonstration of how to wrap your Christmas gifts in prayer. Cost: $5 at the door. For more details: cpconline.org/large-groups
GRIEF RECOVERY
SMALL GROUPS
GRACE & HOPE FOR OUR CHILDREN
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: cpconline.org/groups. • Monday Evening Moms’ Group: 1st Mondays • nearby home • Titus 2 Women: 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wednesdays • 9:30-11:30AM • CPC
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CPC LIFE
Tuesday, November 13 • 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. Pastor Melissa Schaser will speak. No reservation needed. debbiem@cpconline.org Tuesday, November 20 • 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
CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
Friday, November 9 and Saturday, November 17 • 10:00AM to 12:00PM • Anderson Hall • Meets 2nd Friday and 4th Saturday of the month 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
NEW! DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesdays through January 15 • 6:30-8:00PM • Room 205 This group is for people who are recently divorced or in the process of divorce. We welcome you wherever you are on the emotional spectrum. Come every week or for the topics that are most relevant for you. Details at: cpconline.org/care
S.T.A.R.S.
(Short Term Assistance Reaching Seniors) is a new 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
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
RING BELLS FOR THE SALVATION ARMY
Saturday, December 15 at Jerry’s Foods or December 17-21 at Lunds & Byerlys 50th & France All ages are welcome to participate in this fun activity! Sign up in the Great Room on December 1/2 and 8/9 or online at cpconline.org/events
FAR GO!TRIP TO ISRAEL & PALESTINE INFORMATION SESSION Sunday, November 11 • 10:30AM & 12:00PM • Room 205 Our Israel-Palestine Task Force will host an information session for our trip to visit Nazareth Evangelical College with Yohanna and Dina Katanacho in May 2019. You will visit holy sites, converse with university students, and gain insight from Israeli and Palestinian leaders. This is a wonderful opportunity to go deep with our friends working toward peace leslieb@cpconline.org for more in the Middle East. Contact: information.
MISSION PARTNERS
LOVE JESUS AND LOVE KIDS?
MISSION OF THE MONTH FOR NOVEMBER
A.R.M.S. (Active Retired Men Serving) VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
SPOTLIGHT ON MYANMAR
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
Tuesday, November 13 • 6:00-7:30PM • Anderson Hall Join Dr. Tim Geoffrion, CPC missionary and President of Faith, Hope, and Love Global Ministries, as he reflects on the current volatile and bloody political situation in Myanmar. He will also address the issues, challenges, and opportunities facing the Christian minority there and his work in the Myanmar Baptist Convention. Light refreshments will be served.
THE JOY OF GIVING
TREEHOUSE HOPE & HARMONY CONCERT
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
CPC is partnering with Lighthouse MPLS Church, led by Pastor Dee McIntosh, to provide gifts for the Webber Park Community this Christmas. Over 3,000 gifts are needed to stock the Webber Gift Shop for people of all ages to select and purchase gifts for other members of their family. Pick up your gift selection card in the Great Room on November 17,18, 24, or 25. More details on page 5.
Faith, Hope, and Love Global Ministries teaches, inspires, and encourages ministers and leaders in Myanmar and elsewhere around the globe. Mark your check memo Mission of the Month or give online: cpconline.org/give
November 30 • 6:30PM • Sanctuary Celebrate the joy of the season with Minnesota’s own singer/songwriters Sara Groves and John Mark Nelson! Enjoy festive song selections, a special TreeHouse program, a tasty dessert and the heartwarming feeling that comes with bringing hope and a brighter future to TreeHouse teens. Cost: $15. Tickets: cpconline.org/events
NEAR BLOOMINGTON LOAVES AND FISHES
Friday, November 16 • 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
Sunday, November 25 • 12:30-3:00PM • Calvary Church, 2608 Blaisdell Ave S, Minneapolis Help prepare a meal, serve food, and visit with guests. Nearly 100 guests,
CPC LIFE
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NOVEMBER 2018
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BIRTHS
Reid and Loren Christianson welcomed a son, Hugh Olaf, on August 7. Jesse and Krysta Schultz welcomed a son, Everett James, on August 10. TJ and Claire Kellner welcomed a son, Payton Scott, on October 10. Steve and Kelsey Velgersdyk welcomed a son, Tucker James, on October 16.
RECENTLY HOSPITALIZED Gary Burke Courtney McKinley Beth Montgomery Sally Stoutenburgh
STAFF UPDATES
Michelle Durrett moves into a new role as Life Events Coordinator. Michelle will continue her position with Pathway Books.
MARRIAGES
Michael Siebenaler and Laura Cederberg were married on October 13. The Rev. Rich Phenow officiated.
Rena Seurer joins the Facilities Team.
Luke Sabbann and Kate Mathison were married on October 27. The Rev. Debbie Manning officiated.
FINANCIAL UPDATE
DEATHS
Doris Cole passed away on September 21 at the age of 95. She is survived by her husband George and daughters Candy (Jim) DeLong and Cheri Cole. Doris Shadinger passed away on October 15 at the age of 93. She is survived by her daughters Judie Solomon and Sandra Shadinger. Lucille “Lucie” (Mikkelson) Anderson passed away on October 17 at the age of 93. She is survived by her son Todd Anderson, and daughter Mary Mattson.
Missions YTD Total Missions Giving: $62,164 Ministry Fund Revenue/Expense Update August 2018 YTD Revenue Actual: $836,670 August 2018 YTD Revenue Budget: $845,513 September 2018 YTD Revenue Actual: $1,151,645 September 2018 YTD Revenue Budget: $1,108,720 YTD (9/30/2018) We are ahead of giving revenue by $42,925 We are under on expenses by $107,868
Chris Nielsen passed away on October 24 at the age of 53. He is survived by his wife, Kathy; son Zach (Laura), daughters Emily, Sarah (Hunter), Kate (Gunnar), and grandson Leo.
Annual
CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL SERVICE
Tuesday, December 4 • 7:00-8:00PM• Sanctuary Dessert follows in the Great Room.
Begin the season of Advent at CPC’s annual candlelight service. Take time to honor those you have lost over the years, and set your heart and mind on the coming Messiah. 14 N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 8 | C P C L I F E
PLEASE JOIN US FOR A
Worship Celebration AND
Reception to honor the friendship, leadership, and ministry of John and Laura Crosby
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9 • 4:00-7:00PM CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Worship begins in the Sanctuary, with reception following in the Westview Room. Please RSVP at cpconline.org/events or call Cathy at 952.920.8515 x210 Children are welcome, but no childcare provided.
BLESS THE CROSBYS! John and Laura Crosby have impacted the lives of our community in countless ways. We want to bless them by presenting a collection of memories and remembrances from our CPC community.
On the weekends of November 10/11 and 17/18, cards will be available in the Commons for you to write a personal note to John and Laura. Feel free to add a personal photo, share a favorite Bible verse or sermon, or write a prayer for them as they continue to follow God’s call on their lives. Prefer to write a note at home? Please return cards to the church office no later than Tuesday, November 27.
SP EC I A L WO R SHIP SE R V ICE S Thanksgiving Day Worship
THUR SDAY, NOVEM B ER 22 • 9:30AM Begin your Thanksgiving Day celebrations with an opportunity to give thanks to God for all of life’s blessings. Featuring special music with the choir and brass ensemble, and a meditation from John Crosby. Our service ends with a time of corporate thanksgiving.
Advent Celebration
WEDNE SDAY, NOVEM B ER 28 • 6:25PM Join us for a contemporary Advent service in the Sancturay or a kids Advent experience in the Westview Room, followed by festivities in the Great Room.
Christ Presbyterian Church | 952.920.8515 | cpconline.org | facebook.com/cpconline | @CPCEdina | #cpcedina