CPC Life Stories Issue 2017 by Christ Presbyterian Church

Made a resolution to try

FAM JAM: WE LOVE YOU SNOW MUCH

HORIZONS: BUNCO + PIE

Fun for preschoolers and families!

Saturday, February 11 9:00AM

Community for those of active-retirement age

Saturday, January 28 6:30PM

SINGLE PARENT FAMILY MINISTRY

ESSENTIALS 101 Discover God’s story— and your place in it!

Wednesdays starting January 11 • 6:25-7:30PM

Thursday, January 19 6:00PM

Talk about and receive care on your journey with infertility

Thursday, January 12 7:00PM

A mini spiritual retreat

Saturday, February 4 8:30AM

MORNING MEN’S GROUPS

Share a meal and hear an encouraging speaker

INFERTILITY CARE GROUP

SOUL CARE SATURDAY

Existing men’s small groups welcome you for study

GRIEF RECOVERY Experience God’s hope and healing through fellowship and a meal

Various mornings

Tuesday, January 10 6:00PM

ABUNDANTLY SATISFIED

THE PLUNGE: SOURCE ANTI-TRAFFICKING

Find support for weight and food issues

Engage in the fight against human trafficking

Sundays, January 15 & February 5 • 9:30AM

Saturday, January 14 9:00AM

See pages 11-14 for more information or visit cpconline.org. CPC Life is a publication of Christ Presbyterian Church (CPC).

Email Subscriptions: To receive a link to the online version, contact communications@cpconline.org.

Complimentary copies available at CPC or at cpconline.org.

We welcome your letters and comments! Please email communications@cpconline.org.

Mail Subscriptions: Suggested annual donation of $20. Please write Editor, CPC Life, Christ Presbyterian Church, 6901 Normandale Road, Edina, MN 55435.

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

Special thanks to Molly Braun for the photography in this issue // themollybphotosite.com.

“ I WILL ALWAYS BE WITH YOU.”

unny what we remember from our childhood. My wife, Laura, says that one of her favorite memories comes from her two younger brothers, who shared a room for a time when they were kids. When the two boys finally got into bed, they’d say good night . . . and then minutes later, the younger brother, Cris, would always whisper, “Hey, Dave,”—whether his brother was awake or already asleep. He’d keep quietly calling out, and when David finally responded, Cris would say, “Good, I just wanted to know you’re there.” He then could fall off to sleep because he knew his brother was (literally) by his side. This memory is now all the more poignant since David’s death from cancer this last year. I know that Cris still wants to sense that his big brother David is “by his side.” I think we all grow up like Cris, not wanting to be alone, searching for assurance that someone is by our side. Each year I have the privilege of writing in eighty-plus Bibles for our first graders. In every one I highlight Joshua 1:9, a phrase that’s repeated five different times in that chapter alone: “Be strong and

courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” The command to be courageous and not afraid (the most repeated command in the Bible!) is tied to the promise “I will be with you.” As we head into the new year, we’re sharing stories of five people just like you, who came to sense that God was by their side. Old, young, male, female, in heartache, and with questions—they all came to a place where they acknowledged God and recognized His gift of grace. Jesus extended an invitation to them—and to us—to be known, to have the living Savior beside us wherever we go. As we enter a new year, fresh with possibilities and with resolutions, my question is this: Where do you stand with God? If you feel far from His presence, know that He is waiting for you.

John Crosby serves as Senior Pastor.

Would you like to talk to a pastor about what faith in Jesus looks like? CPC pastors would love to dialogue with you and answer any questions you might have. Reach out at email@cpconline.org. CPC LIFE

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grew up going to church, thinking I knew God. But as I came into adulthood, I started having a closer relationship with Him. It began when I struggled getting pregnant, though I never felt discouraged about it. I knew God was there, holding me and carrying me through that difficulty. I just had this feeling I would be a mom, even if I couldn’t have a biological child.

can do it for you. You just have to trust Me. I have a plan.” It’s crazy to say this now, considering how overwhelmed I was at first. But I don’t think I would have made it through that year without that pregnancy. I needed that baby—Connor—to keep me grounded. To grieve, but to also have joy. I had both at the same time. Since my husband checked out of the marriage, I did the pregnancy

I remember sitting there with the pregnancy test and thinking, Why? Why now? I can’t do this. I planned on being a single parent of one. I didn’t plan on two, God. I can’t do two. But I heard Him say to me: “You can’t, but I can. I can do it for you. You just have to trust Me. I have a plan.” I really felt God calling me to adoption. My heart was so happy and full—I knew there was a child out there waiting for me. My husband and I met our son, Kaden, when he was nine months old. He was in an orphanage in Russia, often in and out of the hospital, but when he came home at eleven months, he just flourished. We knew that Fetal Alcohol Syndrome was a risk when we pursued adoption, and when Kaden was in preschool, one of the teachers encouraged us to explore this diagnosis. So began my journey in supporting and navigating the needs of a child with special needs. In April of 2012, just three months after Kaden’s diagnosis, my marriage was facing serious issues. My husband wasn’t sure if he wanted to be in the marriage, if he wanted to be a dad. By July we were separated. It was a Monday when we decided he would move out and figure out what he wanted out of life; five days later I found out I was pregnant. I remember sitting there with the pregnancy test and thinking, Why? Why now? I can’t do this. I planned on being a single parent of one. I didn’t plan on two, God. I can’t do two. But I heard Him say to me: “You can’t, but I can. I

on my own. But my Bible study girls and my family carried me through. They showered me with prayers; they were there at his delivery. Connor was my miracle, in every way, shape, and form. CPC had a parenting conference about a year after Connor was born. It was there I learned that single parents were the largest growing family segment in America, and only about one percent of churches offer a ministry for them. So Sarah Norton [Director of Family Ministries] and I looked at each other afterward, and we both knew we needed to talk. And that’s how the Single Parent Ministry started. I know there are other single parents in this church, and we need each other to walk through life together and to create community. It’s been ten years now that I feel God has truly been directing my life. And I’ve had to listen; I’ve had to listen in a way that I’ve never listened before. You think you know what you want out of life, but God has shown me different plans. But they are plans I am thankful for, and I wouldn’t change a thing about them. CPC LIFE

STORIES 2017

began visiting this church on a regular basis more than thirty years ago. I was not a Christian then—I didn’t even know the meaning of the word except that I had a vague notion that if somebody called you a Christian, that was somehow a compliment.

But then I turned to Roger and said something I didn’t expect: “I’ll tell you what I’ll do. If it’s okay with you, I’ll continue to sing with the choir on Sundays, and I’ll look into these questions.” To his everlasting credit, Roger said that was fine with him and to take my time.

In 1979 choir director Dawn Allan asked if I would like to join the choir. I said to her, “Oh, Dawn, thanks very much, but I am not a member of this church, and furthermore, I don’t have a good voice, and I can’t read music.” Dawn said, “Come on down anyway. You’ll fit right in.”

So I began to read all kinds of things about Christianity. Greatly influential was Miracles by C. S. Lewis, which made the case that we live in a supernatural system in which the natural laws of science can be suspended or broken by supernatural forces. I also read Who Moved the Stone by a trial lawyer who set out

Printed as clear as day was, “Who is your Lord & Savior?” As I suspected, I didn’t even understand the meaning of the question—much less the answer to it.

I attended the first practice, but it’s important to understand that I did so for the music, not the religion. I continued to show up for practices and services; as I sat each Sunday morning in the chancel area, I found myself paying a little more attention to the words of the sermons and hymns we sang. But still, there was no real spiritual movement in me. Later the same year, we sang at New Member Sunday. Outside the Sanctuary Roger Anderson [then senior pastor] asked me, “Have you ever thought about becoming a member of the church?” I replied, “I can’t do that. I don’t even know the meaning of the questions they ask new members, let alone the answers to them.” And then I noticed Roger holding a bulletin for the services for the day. I asked to see it. There, printed clear as day, was the first question: “Who is your Lord and Savior?” As I expected, I didn’t even understand the meaning of the question—much less the answer to it. (By the way, there were three other questions, but they were pretty easy once you got by that first one.)

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to disprove the Resurrection but became a Christian instead. Before I accepted the Bible as reliable, I had to be convinced that miracles were possible and that biblical events could occur. There was another New Member Class that winter, but I wasn’t ready. I understood Christianity intellectually, but I couldn’t commit to it emotionally. Then one Sunday in May, it just came to me: We live in a created world; miracles can occur; the Bible is a reliable and trustworthy source for whether these miracles had in fact occurred. I sang with the choir the first service, and between services I got in my car and drove over to a quiet spot. There I made the commitment to follow Jesus. When I returned to sing for the second service, the hymn “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” took on new meaning. A week or so later was New Member Sunday, and what a thrill it was to stand before the congregation and be asked those questions of faith. Not only did I understand the questions, but I was truly confident in my answers.

didn’t have a dramatic experience in coming to faith. My parents are Christians, and I grew up going to a Taiwanese church. When I was in sixth grade, we started going to a non-denominational church, and the following year I remember going to a winter camp and really enjoying the singing and worshiping. There was a time when I didn’t have the assurance of salvation, but by eighth grade I wanted to be baptized. That was a turning point in my faith. I understood Christ’s sacrifice and felt assured of my salvation.

I am a gastroenterologist, with an interest in liver disease. I enjoyed my biology class in high school, so I took chemistry and physics and decided to apply to the college of biological sciences because I liked science. My classmates often asked, “Are you premed?” and I thought, Oh, is that what people do when they study biology? I guess I’ll explore it. But I was unsure about this path until I went on a trip to Mexico for a civic engagement and Spanish immersion course. There I witnessed a nurse training teenage girls to be midwives, which really impressed me. I saw a personal side to medicine, which made me decide to pursue medical school, rather than work in the lab. My faith has been a driving factor in choosing and practicing medicine. I want to serve people in a more personal way, to be a good physician for my patients and a blessing to my colleagues. Similar to figuring out what I wanted to do in medicine, I feel like my faith journey has been very gradual—from initially enjoying worship songs, to learning more about the Lord in Sunday school and conferences and camps, to appreciating the Lord and His glory and to see His church as a community. The community aspect has been a crucial part to growing my faith. In college and med school my church was involved in a campus ministry, and church became more than just a Sunday service. We called it the “church life,” in that we had Bible study one night, a prayer meeting another night, then worship on the weekend. It was an all-week experience.

My faith has been a driving factor in choosing and practicing medicine. I want to serve people in a more personal way, to be a good physician for my patients and a blessing to my colleagues. When I moved to Boston for school, I had no church community. But the Lord answered prayer by providing a small group. I eventually met my husband, Sean, at church when he joined our group. Since coming to CPC and having two boys, we’ve been able to connect with other young families. We’ve experienced different communities for different phases of life. A speaker at Mom’s Morning talked about how he blesses his children every night. So I’ve started to do that now for my own sons. And I’ve always loved hymns, and I want to share them with my sons. I find that hymns articulate things that I wouldn’t have been able to put into words myself and lead me to a higher spiritual experience, to see the Lord in new ways. Hymns have been the most real way that God speaks to me and comforts me. So now my son Theo knows “Great is Thy Faithfulness,” and my husband has taught him “Amazing Grace.” My hope is that the music and words will be ingrained in him and will speak to him throughout his life as they have for me. CPC LIFE

STORIES 2017

My perception of God and my perception of my dad were very similar: I couldn’t please either one of them. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. - Matthew 5:3-10

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grew up in a very legalistic Christian home. My perception of God and my perception of my dad were very similar: I couldn’t please either one of them. I spent most of my grade school and junior high school years in repentance, remorse, and, regret because I never felt like I measured up. Somewhere in high school I just said, Okay, I can’t please my dad, and I can’t please God, so I’m going to please myself. So I wandered away from my relationship with my dad and with God. In my twenties, I was driving from Phoenix to Tucson after dropping some friends off during a long road trip. I started feeling a sense of God calling to me, and I pulled the car over. I prayed, Okay, God, I will try to live a life that pleases You, but I need Your help. I can’t please You on my own. My understanding was that I still needed to please God in order to make Him happy. But this time, He was going to help me please Him. I had started to understand a measure of grace, but I still didn’t really get it. Fast forward ten years—when my first marriage had fallen apart—I ended up at a church where I started hearing about God’s unconditional grace. God loved me just as I was, broken and imperfect. In fact, the only way God could really have a relationship with me was in my broken state, and He loved me just as I was. I started feeling God’s unconditional love, unconditional grace. I began to understand that you can’t do anything to get in or get out of God’s grace. Along with now being a single father, I began experiencing the healing and the renewing of my relationship with God, my heavenly Father. Additionally, after my divorce, my dad and I had many conversations about how proud he was of me as a father. He shared how much he wished he’d had all the resources, books, men’s support groups, and teaching that were available today. My dad had no father figure in his life and just didn’t know how to be a good dad. Slowly my relationship with my dad was restored. He passed away six years ago, and in the last year of his life we had a lot of quality time together. I know that I pleased him not just because I was a good father, but also because I was his son. Similarly, my own son pleases me simply because he’s my son. And I’ve come to know that about my heavenly Father, as well. Simply because I’m His child, I please Him. In my life story of fatherhood, I have found that it is in vulnerability and brokenness that we experience relationship with God and His unfathomable love for us. We see this in the Beatitudes. Broken people are blessed because of God’s grace-filled response to them. It’s in my brokenness that healing is found. It’s in my dependence on Him that I experience grace and relationship with Him.

CPC LIFE

STORIES 2017

n eighth grade, you don’t really know who you are. I had always gone to church and enjoyed my time in youth group with friends, but I didn’t take my faith seriously. When I went to the fall eighth grade retreat, I remember that it was super cold, and I was just getting over a bad case of pneumonia. Near the end of the retreat, they gave us the Lord’s Prayer and told us to find somewhere in nature to have time with God. I went into the woods and found a nook in a tree. I was sitting there, so cold, my lungs hurting, and I thought, This is a terrible, terrible time. But instead of just saying the Lord’s Prayer robotically like we’re taught, I actually

Instead of just saying the Lord’s Prayer robotically like we’re taught, I actually started dissecting it line by line. I started praying, and it was the first time I honestly gave myself time to listen to God. started dissecting it line by line. I started praying, and it was the first time I honestly gave myself time to listen to God. All of a sudden—it was super surreal, and I don’t know how to explain it—the cold went away and it was almost like a blanket of warmth. I felt in the presence of the Lord; it was incredibly overwhelming. It was the first time I thought, Oh my gosh, this is real. I came away realizing that having a real relationship with Jesus was something I actively needed to pursue. Part of the way I’ve maintained my relationship with God is to serve Him. I’m finding a lot of purpose in leading fourth grade boys on Sundays and ninth grade boys on Wednesdays. I’ve been with the fourth graders since they were in first grade. It’s really cool to see the change in them from four huge years ago—I get a little choked up about it! On my retreat I remember leaders talking about the difference between being a fan of Jesus and being a follower. When I think of a fan, I think about sports. You’re the one in the stands, and you know about the players, but you don’t know them personally. I could tell you a bunch of statistics about Adrian Peterson, but I don’t know him. I relate that to God. You go to church and run through the motions, but if you’re not actively pursuing a personal relationship, it’s not meaningful. So now I ask myself, How can I follow Jesus in this stage of my life? Sam Garton is a senior at Edina High School.

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HAPPENINGS CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515

E VENTS CPC OFFICE/BUILDING CLOSURES

Due to the holidays, the CPC offices are closed December 26, January 2 & 16.

MID-MONTH CHAPEL SERVICE

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

SAVE THE DATE: WELCOME TO CPC GATHERING

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

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

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, January 11, 18, & 25, February 1 & 8 • 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 (NEW THIS YEAR: 6th grade choir option) • Club (6:30-7:30PM) – 1st-6th grades Cost: $30/first child, $20/second child, $10/third child; max $60/family. Sign up: cpconline.org/kids

S TUDENTS

ELEVATE & COMMITMENT CLASS THE 3RD ANNUAL PAJAMUARY

Wednesday, January 11 • 6:00-7:45PM • CPC 7th-9th graders, join us in the MPR for a movie night with snacks and drinks! Bring a blanket and pillow if you want, but definitely come in jammies or comfy clothes to relax and enjoy the evening. No cost or sign-ups; just show up!

ELEVATE & CC WEDNESDAY NIGHTS

Wednesdays, January 18 & 25, February 1 & 8 • 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

RUCKUS: TREMENDOUS TUBING

Friday, January 27 • 5:30-8:30PM • Buck Hill 7th-8th graders are invited to participate in snow tubing at Buck Hill! Meet at CPC at 5:30PM to hop on the bus, returning at 8:30PM. Cost: $13. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

COMMITMENT CLASS WORSHIP EXPERIENCE

Sunday, January 29 One of the special required events of the Commitment Class year is the annual Worship Experience when students are sent to a local church along with their small group and families. You will receive more details in the mail soon, but save the date!

SAVE THE DATE: AVALANCHE SKI/SNOWBOARD RETREAT

Saturday-Monday, February 18-20 • Spirit Mountain in Duluth Over President’s Day weekend, we head up to Duluth for an amazing ski/snowboarding and service trip. Cost: $250. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

HSM HSM LARGE GROUPS

Wednesday, January 11 & February 1 • 8:00-9:15 • CPC mycahb@cpconline.org

HSM HOUSE GROUPS

Wednesdays, January 18 & 25 • 8:00-9:15PM • area homes mycahb@cpconline.org

SPECIAL NEEDS

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 Find more details at cpconline.org/students.

TAPESTRY

Tuesdays, January 10, 24, & February 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 CPC LIFE

STORIES 2017

CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515

MOSAIC WORSHIP SERVICE

Sunday, January 29 • 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

IN THE WORD

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

ADULTS EVENTS HORIZONS (FORMERLY NESTERS) ( active retired age)

Saturday, January 28 • 6:30PM • Fireside Room Horizons exists to experience the good we see all around us! Join others of active retirement-age, singles and couples, for a fun evening of bunco and pie. No cost, but there will be a signup to bring a homemade pie if desired. debc@cpconline.org Sign up:

LET’S CONNECT

Thursday, February 2 • 6:30-8:00PM • Fireside Room Let’s Connect seeks to provide women who have launched their kids into the world a space to live, learn, and serve while growing in Christ. Find rest for your souls while listening to a faith journey from CPCer Cathy Wood. Then receive encouragement from Bev Coniaris, a seasoned mom who has launched her adult children, as she speaks on what God has in store as we move into a new season of life. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

SOUL CARE SATURDAY

Saturday, February 4 • 8:30-11:30AM • Fireside Room Find rest for your soul as you discover your true core value through what God has done for us in Jesus. Join us for this mini spiritual retreat featuring meditation on Scripture stories. Led by Judie Ritchie, former CPC pastor. Cost: $15. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

SAVE THE DATE: WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

Friday, February 24 • 7:00-9:00PM • CPC Hear music from Sara Groves, singer/songwriter and seven-time Dove Award nominee, and Bethany Hoang, coauthor of the book The Justice Calling. Cost: $15. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

STUDIES WOMEN IN THE WORD

Mondays starting January 9 • 9:30-11:45AM • Fireside Room This winter we study When Life is Hard by James MacDonald. Discover principles for responding to trials in a way that submits to God’s work in your life and seeks to glorify Him. You will also learn how to tap into the spiritual resources God provides to help you face your trials. Includes DVD teaching, small group conversation, fellowship, and prayer. Cost: $15. Childcare: $50/semester. Sign up: cpconline.org/studies

ESSENTIALS 101

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

GROUPS SINGLE PARENT FAMILY MINISTRY

Thursday, January 19 • 6:00-8:00PM • Anderson Hall In this community for single parents and their children, we share a family meal, then the adults break off to hear a speaker on topics that encourage sarahn@cpconline.org single parents. Childcare provided. No cost.

SUNDAY COMMUNITIES

Sundays • 9:30 or 10:45AM More than just “Sunday School,” Sunday Communities foster a sense of belonging and growth with people of similar interests or life stages. •C ATALYST (young married couples) (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) “Provisions of Christ” with James Madsen (9:30AM Fellowship Hall East) •A .C.T.S. (late 50s & 60s) “Finding Peace and Joy” with Dave Scherf (9:20AM - Fellowship Hall Center) •M ORE (Active Retired) “King of the Jews: The Jewish Background of Jesus and the New Testament” with Nick Schaser (10:45AM - Room 107) •C REDO (Intergenerational) “The Good Life: Romans 12 & 13” with Randy Andersen (10:45AM - Room 10 South)

NEW! MIXED ADULT GROUP 50s AND UP

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

NEW! MIXED ADULT GROUP INTERGENERATIONAL

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

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

HAPPENINGS

WOMEN MOM’S MORNING (for moms of young children)

LARGE GROUP Wednesdays, January 11 & 25 • 9:30-11:30AM • Fireside Room Join other moms for fellowship and inspirational speakers. Steve Wiens speaks on “Whole: Restoring What’s Broken in Me, You, and the Entire World.” On January 25, Sally Koering Zimney speaks on “The Story Truth: How Telling Our Stories Connects us to Each Other.” 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, January 14 • 10:00AM-2:00PM • Fellowship Hall 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, January 19 • 9:30-11:30AM • Anderson Hall Technology is a big part of our kids’ world! Dave Eisenmann, Director of Instructional Technology & Media Services at Minnetonka Public Schools, speaks on “Parenting High-Tech Kids.” You won’t want to miss learning how to help your kids develop a balanced and healthy use of technology. Cost: $5 at the door. Bring a friend! SMALL GROUP Thursdays twice a month • 9:30AM Small groups meet twice a month and provide in-depth connection, support, and study. Sign up: cpconline.org/groups

EVENING MOM’S GROUP

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

COUPLES COUPLES’ GROUPS

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

OLDER ADULTS EDYNAMOES

Wednesday, January 25 • 11:30AM • Fellowship Hall Come in from the cold for the luncheon this month! We’ll learn about the journey of our pop/can tabs from CPC to the Ronald McDonald house. Dan Rooney will share the mission of the RMD House to provide a comfortable

and caring home-away-from-home to support families during a child’s serious illness. Cost: $5. Please bring Jerry’s cash receipts and pop/can tabs. Sign up by January 22: 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! ESTHER CIRCLE Thursday, January 5 • 10:00AM • nearby home All women are welcome to join us for Bible study and fellowship. shellienw@gmail.com MARTHA CIRCLE Wednesday, January 18 • 10:00AM • Parlor Melissa Schaser, Associate Pastor of Congregational Care, is our guest. Worship together at the Mid-Month Chapel Service followed by lunch in the Fireside Room. Pat Haberkorn at 952.941.4188 LYDIA CIRCLE Friday, January 20 • 11:00AM • Parlor Melissa Schaser, Associate Pastor of Congregational Care, is our guest speaker. Ellen Hastings at 952.896.0066 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 GRIEF RECOVERY

Tuesday, January 10 • 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. debc@cpconline.org

INFERTILITY CARE GROUP

Thursday, January 12 • 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. debc@cpconline.org

ALZHEIMER’S EDUCATION SERIES

Thursday, January 12 • 6:30-8:00PM • Anderson Hall • meets 2nd Thursday of the month through March A series for care partners and those with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. This month is “Legal and Financial Issues after a Diagnosis of Dementia.” marya@cpconline.org

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

Friday, January 13 & Saturday, January 28 • 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

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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

ABUNDANTLY SATISFIED

Sundays, January 15 & February 5 • 9:30-10:30AM • Room 203 • meets 1st & 3rd Sundays We support each other with weight issues that keep us from experiencing the abundant life God wants for us. No weigh-ins; lots of grace and support! sandy_radeke@earthlink.net

GRACE & HOPE FOR OUR CHILDREN

Tuesday, January 17 • 7:00-8:30PM • Parlor • meets 3rd Tuesdays Does your child experience emotional or mental health issues? You are not alone. Join other parents, friends, and caregivers as we care for one another on our journeys. Meetings include support, fellowship, and occasional guest dbrown@dcbrowninc.com speakers.

NEW BEGINNINGS

Saturday, January 21 • 9:00-11:00AM • Anderson Hall New Beginnings is CPC’s support, resource, and friendship community for those dealing with the practical issues that follow a spouse’s death. Join us for our Third Saturday Touch Base Breakfast with made-to-order debc@cpconline.org omelets. Cost: $10. Sign up:

LGBTQ FAMILY GROUP

THE PLUNGE: 3-PART SERIES 1) SOURCE ANTI-TRAFFICKING

Saturday, January 14 • 9:00AM-12:00PM • 2609 Stevens Ave., Minneapolis Source Anti-Trafficking helps us understand “Who is our neighbor?” and “What are our neighbor’s realities?” We’ll watch a powerful video followed by a facilitated discussion to reframe the way we talk about prostitution, what’s driving demand, and the best way we can engage in next steps. Look below for more Source events. Sign up: cpconline.org/events

2) URBAN HOMEWORKS • March 25 3) URBAN VENTURES • May 20 SOURCE ANTI-TRAFFICKING

Training & Testimony: Tuesday, January 3 • 7:00-8:30PM Prayer Breakfast: Saturday, January 21 • 9:00-10:00AM Get to know CPC’s local anti-trafficking mission partner, Source AntiTrafficking, at their monthly Prayer Breakfasts or Training & Testimony nights. Both events are located at 2609 Stevens Ave, Minneapolis. Sign up: sourcemn.org/events

BLOOMINGTON LOAVES & FISHES

Friday, January 20 & February 17 • Prep: 2:00-4:00PM; Serve: 5:007:00PM • 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

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

FAR CATADUPA, JAMAICA WITH HIGH SCHOOL MINISTRIES

SERVE HERE CHOIRS FOR ALL AGES

Choral and instrumental choirs resume their rehearsals in January. This is a great time to get involved! New members (children through adults) are welcome to participate. Sign up: cpconline.org/music-ministries

MEMORIAL SERVICE COOKIE BAKERS NEEDED!

The CPC Memorial Cookie Baking ministry needs to add bakers to their team. Bakers are emailed as memorial services arise to ask if they could bring in a batch of cookies on a particular day for a memorial reception. marya@cpconline.org There is never an obligation!

MEMORIAL SERVICE USHERS/GREETERS NEEDED

Volunteer ushers and greeters for CPC memorial services are needed to supplement the team already in place. You serve only if you are available! marya@cpconline.org

NEAR VOLUNTEER WITH FAMILIES MOVING FORWARD

January 1-8 CPC begins the new year with the privilege of hosting families experiencing homelessness during their stay at CPC. Help provide meals, hospitality, kids’ evening activities, or set-up/clean-up. Sign up: cpconline.org/serve/near

March 26-April 1, 2017 Join other high school students on this trip of transformation: • Learn about the unique culture and customs of Jamaica • See the side of Jamaica seldom seen in vacation brochures •L earn how Jamaican Christians are addressing the needs of their community • Be forever changed! Trip Leaders: Pattie Juarez, World Servants Caribbean Specialist, and CPC staff. Cost: $995 per person (plus airfare ~$800). Sign up: cpconline.org/serve/far

2017 GO!TRIPS

If you have an interest in a particular trip but are unsure of your participation, please let us know so we can keep you in the loop! This helps us to gauge interest in the trip, prevents premature cancellation during periods of slow registration, and allows us to communicate trip information to you. leslieb@cpconline.org •S ankofa Journey of Reconciliation to the American South: March 2 (required workshop); trip is from March 16-19 •N EW! Israel Palestine with Yohanna and Dina Katanacho: April 23-May 1 • Nicaragua with Opportunity International: June 19-24 • Israel Palestine with The Telos Group: October 17-27 • Lusaka and Moyo, Zambia: November

BIRTHS

Mark Lehman passed away on December 4 at the age of 56. His mother-in-law is Gloria Strom. The Rev. Rich Phenow officiated his memorial service.

MARRIAGES

Marie Anderegg passed away on December 5 at the age of 89. Pastor Melissa Schaser will officiate her memorial service on January 13 at CPC.

Adam and Stace Butcher welcomed a son, Anders Gideon, on October 10.

Tim Haugen and Lindsay Wyatt were married on December 3. The Rev. Rich Phenow officiated.

Harold Honken passed away on December 6. His daughter is Laura Mulliken, CPC College Intern Director.

DEATHS

Michael Janasz passed away. His father is Joe Janasz. Philip James McElroy passed away on November 9 at the age of 83. His son is Mike McElroy. Carlene Johnston passed away on November 17. Her sister is Kathleen Selje, CPC Kids’ Elementary Associate. Mary Lou Terwilliger passed away on November 17 at the age of 77. Her son is Mike Terwilliger. Thomas Kamp passed away on November 23. His son is Tom Kamp.

Bonnie Scaife passed away on December 8.

RECENTLY HOSPITALIZED Harry Baker Dean Danielson Pete Franz

Holli Hotz Katie Klevesahl Kim Kritzer

Doris Nielsen Pixie Pixler Bruce Vetsch

FINANCIAL UPDATE

June 1–November 30, 2016

James Feese passed away on December 2 at the age of 82. His wife is Sandy and his daughter is Lisa Feese Burns.

Ministry Offering Budget: $2,020,718.59 Actual Offering: $1,835,075.22 Variance: ($185,643.37)

Inez Olson passed away on December 3 at the age of 93. The Rev. Jody Phenow officiated her memorial service.

YTD Mission Focus Total: $92,842.01 Expenses are under budget year-to-date.

YEAR-END GIVING

Thank you for your support and generosity in 2016! All contributions to the church must be received or postmarked by December 31, 2016 to be credited for 2016. You can mail your gift or drop it off in the CPC office at the north entrance through Saturday, December 31 by noon.

INVITED GIVING

Need to fulfill your pledge? Checks made out to CPC (write “Invited” on the memo line) can be dropped off at the office or in the offering plate. You can also visit cpconline.org/invited and click the “Fulfill Your Commitment” button to pay online!

Have questions about giving to the general fund or to the Invited Campaign? Contact David Peterson, Finance Manager, at 952.920.8515 x206.

A new year means a new start!

As we head into 2017, we’re going to explore seven key areas of our lives that may need a fresh take. God loves us so much He wants to see our money, work, relationships, body, hands, words, and time take on new character.

This is a great time for self reflection: What changes do I need to make, and how can Jesus be part of my transformation?

W E E K LY WO R S H I P

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

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S PE CI A L N E W Y E A R ’ S E V E & DAY WO R S H I P TI M E S

Saturday, December 31 at 5:15PM Sunday, January 1 at 10:00AM |

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