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was at an academic symposium the other day and overheard a couple of pastoral colleagues asking, “So, how’s it going at your church?” What became immediately apparent was that the real underlying questions were: “What are your numbers? Are there more or fewer people in worship? Are you growing, declining, or stagnant?” For churches, success too often equates spiritual health with how many go to church—and in an era of dying denominations and young people not returning to their parents’ congregations, it’s a natural preoccupation. But it’s deadly, and I pray we’re not sucked into the comparison game! Deb Kielsmeier and I were talking about this last week, and she sent me a follow-up article with this quote from Ed Cyzewski: “I understand church attendance can serve as a helpful mark of how we’re doing. To that end, a church losing members should certainly take note of that trend. It could be a symptom of something gone awry. I want more people in my community to know Jesus, but I have often slipped into wish-
CPC Life is a monthly publication of Christ Presbyterian Church (CPC). Complimentary copies available monthly at CPC or at cpconline.org/cpclife. Mail Subscriptions: Suggested annual donation of $20. Please write Editor, CPC Life, Christ Presbyterian Church, 6901 Normandale Road, Edina, MN 55435.
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ing for more people at church services. We’re not calling people back to Jesus; we’re calling them back to church. . . . But I think it should be the other way around: By calling people back to Jesus, we’re also calling them back to Christian community.”
Our community is gathered so that people might BE inspired, BE supported, BE encouraged, and BE in service that changes lives, communities, and eternal destinations. Drawing people TO church only matters if they learn to BE the church, to become followers of Jesus. Our community is gathered so that people might BE inspired, BE supported, BE encouraged, and BE in service that changes lives, communities, and eternal destinations. That’s so much harder to measure, and so much more important!
Email Subscriptions: To receive a link to the monthly online version, contact communications@cpconline.org. We welcome your letters and comments! Please email communications@cpconline.org. © Christ Presbyterian Church 2014
I pray that you will invite your friends to CPC this fall, but not to fill our pews. The apostle Paul talked about the role of Christian worship in the larger world: “If some unbelieving outsiders walk in on a service where people are speaking out God’s truth, the plain words will bring them up against the truth and probe their hearts. Before you know it, they’re going to be on their faces before God, recognizing that God is among you” (1 Corinthians 14:25, The Message). As Cyzewski reminds us, “Our job is not done when the chairs are full. Our job is done when we have made disciples who count the cost and imitate Christ.” In other words, when people don’t just go to church, they become the church!
John Crosby serves as Senior Pastor.
Director of Communications: Sarah Long Editor: Maggie Keller Art Direction & Design: Jeremy Emmerich, Matt Schubbe Editorial Assistant: Claire Sweem
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We all want to belong to something greater than ourselves. As followers of Jesus, we are called to be a part of the Body of Christ, His Church. TH E A P OST L E PAUL PUT IT T HIS WAY: The way God designed our bodies is a model for understanding our lives together as a church: every part dependent on every other part, the parts we mention and the parts we don’t, the parts we see and the parts we don’t. If one part hurts, every other part is involved in the hurt, and in the healing. If one part flourishes, every other part enters into the exuberance. (1 CORINTHIANS 12:25-26, THE MES S AGE)
To share in the good and the bad. To seek comfort and give encouragement. To stumble and be lifted up. To have need, and to give with joy. To do it all together.
This fall, don’t just go to church. Instead, discover in the following pages ways to:
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It’s an invitation to know and experience the fullness of life in Christ. Join us! CPC LIFE
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ave you ever had a friend or family member ask you that question? What did you say? Or maybe more telling, what did you think but choose not to reveal? Do you go to church because of tradition? Faith? Expectations? Love? Appearances? Devotion? Obligation? Desire? Habit? At different points of my life, I could have responded to that question with each of those answers. Lately, though, I’ve been dreaming about a different way of answering the question, “Why church?” I have been dreaming about this answer: “I go to church because of us.” If the Bible is true when it describes the church as the body of Christ, then it is essential to be with one another. If you are missing, I am not whole. If I am missing, you are not whole. We are interconnected and dependent on one another. Our society tends to lift up independence as one of our highest virtues. But what if it isn’t? What if it is our recognition that we are interdependent that
allows us to settle more deeply into our identity as God’s beloveds? You and I are different. We see the world differently. We have had different life experiences. We are filled with different passions. We hold different hopes for the future. When we unite around Jesus, those very differences that could have caused strain now become the
I have been dreaming about this answer: “I go to church because of us.” vessels that hold the greatest potential for significance.
and expressive; I don’t deserve a place on the head,’ would you want to remove it from the body? If the body was all eye, how could it hear? If all ear, how could it smell? As it is, we see that God has carefully placed each part of the body right where he wanted it” (v. 15-18, The Message). We need each other. We need caregivers to bring us comfort. We need academics to challenge our context, artists to show us beauty, doubters to show us questions, servants to show us surrender, and visionaries to show us inspiration. Church is more than a service. Church is more than a building. It is Christ’s body. It is you. It is me. The Church is us.
1 Corinthians 12 says, “A body isn’t just a single part blown up into something huge. It’s all the differentbut-similar parts arranged and functioning together. If Foot said, ‘I’m not elegant like Hand, embellished with rings; I guess I don’t belong to this body,’ would that make it so? If Ear said, ‘I’m not beautiful like Eye, limpid
Steph Spencer serves as Co-Director of The Table.
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Brooke Toftoy (l) serves as Co-Director of High School Ministries Debbie Manning (r) serves as Associate Pastor of Congregational Care
A Closer Look at Women Who Inspire
this young voice reminding us that we didn’t need another church event with cake and church coffee in the Fellowship Hall. She had a vision for a TED talktype event in a fun evening venue, with black tablecloths and desserts from all over town, all lending to a unique, cool night out for women. The first Women Who Inspire event in February exceeded our hopes—315 women attended! The place was packed! I’ve been at CPC for fifteen years, and I’ve never felt that kind of energy in a room, especially for an event with women. It felt like it met a need. And it was truly cross-generational: high schoolers all the way to women in their seventies.
Brooke: I’ve recently been yearning to grow and develop as a leader. Debbie Manning has been a big part of my story, helping me embrace who I’m created to be and to become more like Jesus. But I also craved development in my leadership as a woman. So when I saw Megan Tamte reading the book Lean In by Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg, I told her I wanted to read it and discuss it with her. So we
to develop women, not just spiritually, but in their leadership?
Brooke: Our next speaker, Sarah Bessey, will share about women’s role in the church. She’s the author of Jesus Feminist, and that title has the potential to turn away almost every person. But nothing about her message is angry; it’s hopeful.
It’s about all women: high school and college students, single women, married women who don’t have kids. We’re all women, and we connected around a common interest: vocation. Whatever you’re called to for a period of time— being a student, building a career, staying home either for a season or
Debbie: If you look at Jesus in the context of His time, He was radically feminist. We all have an equal place in God’s eyes. It’s not an either/or—it’s both/and. That’s what we all love about Sarah’s spirit: it isn’t the 1960s’ sort of feminism; it is affirming that we’re
had dinner together, and I was so encouraged to hear how Megan develops the women she works with in her company—and wants to develop other leaders. It was inspiring. We talked about how she’s a mom, but that’s not the only part of her, and how she wishes she could bring some of her leadership development gifts to church.
forever—vocation is more than just your job; it’s doing whatever you’re doing for God. It’s leading where you are.
all created in the image of God, there is room enough for all of us, and we need all of us. It’s about being a Jesus follower.
Debbie: Bigger than vocation, even, is this: the idea that God calls us to lean into our gifts, though sometimes there’s a sense that it’s a little harder for women. But this isn’t just about women! We’re all gifted, and there’s room at the table for everybody. One of our hopes was that this would be intergenerational—that we could come together, dream, encourage, talk, connect, and cross generational lines. Brooke was
These events are for women both church and unchurched, but Women Who Inspire has a Jesus-following, faithdriven foundation. It was created by different women leaning into their gifts and sharing what God’s doing through them in the world. For those women, they were being the church. They saw a need—to develop women—and said, “I can help meet that.”
BROOK E TO FTOY A N D D EB B I E M AN N I N G S H AR E H O W A S IM P L E Q U ESTIO N SPAR K E D A N E W M I N I ST RY
Megan and I started talking with other women who also sensed the same need. We dreamed and brainstormed around this question: What would it look like
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PC is a large and inviting congregation with scores of places to plug in for growth, service, or fellowship. Sometimes it can be easy to be overwhelmed by the plethora of opportunities. Breaking in may seem difficult or intimidating. Sunday Communities are a wonderful and easy first step for those seeking a deeper, more meaningful connection beyond our worship services. Each of our five communities meet weekly, incorporating interactive teaching that invites participants into an engaged learning environment. When we learn together, we also get to know one another more fully and grow in faith and friendship. Consider being a part of the connecting, belonging, and growing happening in Sunday Communities! This year we asked some of our finest teachers to lead us in areas of their passion (see details at right). The six-week format creates easy “jump in” points throughout the year. If you have been wondering about your “next step, ” I encourage you to see how one of our communities could impact you and your faith. Pick up a brochure, visit cpconline. org/SC, or contact me. We can point you to a place to connect, belong, and grow.
Dan Anderson serves as Pastor of Congregational Care and Sunday Communities
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S U N DAY C O M M U N I T I E S Brand-new topical studies this fall! Sundays, September 21- November 2 MIXED TAPES: The Everyday Christian: Living Faith Beyond Church Walls with Jon Keller
CREDO The Story of God is Our Story with Deb Kielsmeier
S.A.L.T. Transforming Initiatives: A Fresh Look at the Sermon on the Mount with Steve Carlson
MORE The Grace-Transformed Life with James and Anna Madsen
A.C.T.S. The Apostle Paul: Man of Grace and Grit with Randy Andersen
Times and locations on page 12.
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moment because it just so happened that all the pastors were together for a retreat, so there was immediate prayer there. The next call informed us that they were transporting Bill, and I asked if they ever got a heartbeat. The response was simply, “I don’t know.” At that point, I was just praying, “God, if you can’t bring him back whole, then please take him.” We’d promised we wouldn’t let each other live like that, so I simply prayed, “Please don’t make me have to make that decision.”
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hen my husband, Bill, and I moved to Minnesota in 2001, CPC was one of the first churches we considered attending. We loved John Crosby’s preaching, but we wanted to worship together as a family and have all of us attend some sort of Sunday school, and the structure of Sunday mornings just didn’t fill that need at the time. So we ended up attending a different church for about five years until transitions in that church had us looking again. Discouraged and about to give up, we said, “You know, let’s just try that CPC place again.” We discovered that the schedule had changed and that they now had Sunday Communities in the morning, which really appealed to us. We began attending the S.A.L.T. (Sharing and Learning Together) community, and we loved it. The people were super welcoming, and we found a great mix of ages and stages—people with real little kids, with teenagers, empty nesters, single people, married people, married people who don’t come with their spouse. It just felt like a group anyone could fit into. A few years ago we became leaders, hosting the group each Sunday morning. Last summer Bill and I made plans to attend his family reunion in North Carolina. He arranged to fly there directly, while I left earlier to take a road trip with our three girls so that our oldest daughter could check out
some colleges. When Bill arrived at the reunion before me, I talked to him to let him know we were running late. Bill just said, “Oh, don’t worry about it at all. Everyone’s here and we’re having a great time. Just drive safe.” He was concerned about us driving by ourselves, but it never occurred to us to worry about him. We were just entering Knoxville when we pulled over at a gas station. After I topped off the tank, I got a phone call from my sister-in-law. Breathless, she simply said, “There’s been an accident.” I knew Bill would be out waterskiing, because he was super excited about it. And I thought, Oh no, he must have fallen and gotten cut by the prop or something. And then my niece who is in nursing school gets on the phone and starts shooting me all these questions, asking if Bill is on any medicine, on any heart medicine. And I asked, “What kind of accident was this?” She handed the phone to my brother-in-law, Bob, who said, “He was waterskiing, and he collapsed. We’ve been doing compressions ever since. The ambulance is here, but they’re not transporting him.” We were in the mountains, the connection was terrible. The girls come out of the bathroom, and I’m white as a sheet, so I get them in the car and tell them what’s happened to Bill. We prayed a bit, and then there was nothing left to do but get back on the road. I called the church, and God just met us in that
A short time later we got a call saying we needed to pull over, and I’m thinking, I’m not telling my kids this on the side of the highway. And here’s another God thing: of course I’m driving like ninety-five miles an hour, and here comes this amazingly beautiful, peaceful rest area that was just gorgeous. So we stopped there, and Bob told me that Bill had died, and I told the kids. Bill was 44. We still had several hours to drive to get to Bill’s family at the hospital, and during that time Pastor Dan Anderson kept in contact with me. We identified some people I needed to tell personally, and he arranged to help spread the news to our S.A.L.T. community. And from that moment, our S.A.L.T. people have allowed the Holy Spirit to use them to provide for us. They served an enormous meal to everyone who came to the funeral service; they grieved with us, called, stopped by, sent gifts and cards. Bill had been invited to a small group through S.A.L.T., and those guys have been mowing our lawn and shoveling the snow since he passed away. They just show up. They’ve been there for us. The first Sunday we returned to CPC for worship, the girls and I sat down in our usual pew. And before I knew it, our S.A.L.T. community had surrounded us so we wouldn’t be alone. In the past year, we’ve never sat alone. Through this hard season of loss and grief, they have been the church. They have prayed for us. They have walked with us. They have invited us out. And kept us going. Truly the hands and feet of Christ. I’ve never felt deserted or lonely. Well . . . yes, I’ve felt lonely. But they’ve been there. CPC LIFE
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Urban Ventures’ Community Garden— our Christmas Offering in action.
150 kids attended VBS and learned to follow Jesus!
HSM students and leaders pause for prayer on Summit in Moab, Utah.
Room 204 was renovated and renamed Anderson Hall in honor of founding pastor Roger Anderson.
Over 100 women gathered at the summer Women Who Inspire event. September20134CPCLife.indd 10
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#CPCSUMMER Using this hashtag, we shared photos on Twitter and Instagram of the times and ways we witnessed God’s goodness this summer.
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MINISTRY PROGRAMMING | 2014 SEPTEMBER ISSUE
CPC Ministry Programming September 2014
At CPC, we seek to inspire all generations to follow Jesus, love others, and live missionally. Please look through the various programs for kids, students, and adults—and join us! For fuller descriptions and more information on any of these programs, please visit cpconline.org. PARENTAL GUIDANCE NECESSARY (PG)
GENERAL KICK-OFF MINISTRY FAIR
September 6/7 after worship services Find ways to connect at CPC through classes, groups, and service. Each ministry area will be represented in the Great Room after worship, with leaders to answer questions.
MID-MONTH CHAPEL SERVICE
Wednesday, September 17 at 12:00PM A traditional service with a short message by Dan Anderson, hymns, Communion, and prayers. Lunch follows.
ADULTS IN THE WORD
Mondays beginning September 8 from 9:30-11:30AM in Room 107 An intergenerational discussionoriented study by Tim Keller for men and women. Childcare available ($50/semester). Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: James Madsen at x308; jamesm@cpconline.org.
AMAZING GRACE BOOK GROUP
Monday, September 8 at 1:00PM in the Parlor; meets 2nd Mondays We discuss The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd. All are welcome! Contact: Carol Krebs at 952.944.6639.
WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY
Wednesdays beginning September 10 from 11:00AM-12:00PM in Room 203 Rick Byron leads this lively discussion on Hebrews. We meet Wednesdays except Edynamoes days. Contact: Deb Carlson at x316; debc@cpconline.org.
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FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY
Wednesdays, September 17-October 8 from 6:15-7:30PM in Anderson Hall (Room 204) PG seeks to equip parents through the challenges and joys of raising Christian kids in a secular world. Our fall series includes: September 17: Andy Swanda from Treehouse on “Don’t be That Parent . . . 5 Pitfalls to Avoid in Raising Your Kids.” September 24: Brad Pierce from Young Life on “How to Handle Success and Failure for Kids and Parents.” October 1: Lee Hanssen, CPC Student Ministries on “What’s So Sticky About Sticky Faith?” October 8: Dr. Tim Johanson, Behavioral Pediatrician on “Your LifeReady Child: Are You a Catalyst or an Inhibitor?” Contact: Debbie Ducar at x226; debbied@cpconline.org.
Tuesdays, September 23-November 18 from 6:30-8:30PM in the Fireside Room This series from Dave Ramsey offers practical, biblical resources for financial management. Cost: $100/ household. Register: cpconline.org/ register. Contact: Dan Anderson at x298; danderson@cpconline.org.
CPC BOOK CLUB
Wednesdays, October 1-November 19 from 6:00-7:30PM in a nearby home Once you have met Jesus, you will never be the same. His teaching challenges your thinking. His love turns your life around. Led by Laura Mulliken. Register: cpconline.org/ register. Contact: Deb Carlson at x316; debc@cpconline.org.
Thursday, September 18 at 7:00PM in the Parlor; meets 3rd Thursdays We discuss Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan. Contact: Nancy Reutiman at 952.920.1837.
SUNDAY COMMUNITIES
Sundays beginning September 21 Sunday Communities offer a place to belong and a place to grow with people in a similar life stage. Learn more on page 8. Contact: Dan Anderson at x298; danderson@cpconline.org. MIXED TAPES (20s & 30s) Meets at 9:30AM in Fellowship Hall-West S.A.L.T. (mostly 40s & 50s) Meets at 9:30AM in Fellowship Hall-East A.C.T.S. (mostly 50s & 60s) Meets at 9:30AM in Fellowship Hall-Center MORE (mostly retired) Meets at 10:45AM in Room 107 CREDO (intergenerational) Meets at 10:45AM in Fellowship Hall-West
NEW MEMBERS’ CLASS
Intro Lunch: Sunday, September 28 from 12:15-2:00PM in the Fireside Room Come join the CPC community! At the intro lunch, meet pastors and gather in small groups. Classes also include three small group meetings with teaching on topics central to what we believe. Register by September 14: cpconline.org/ membership. Contact: Karen Heine at x210; karenh@cpconline.org.
ESSENTIALS 201: RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS
SMALL GROUPS Wherever you are in your spiritual journey, being in relationship is essential to your transformation. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Deb Carlson at x316; debc@cpconline.org.
WOMEN
NEW! EVENING MOM’S GROUP
2nd Thursdays from 7:00-8:30PM Join with other moms to connect and
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grow together in faith. Geared toward moms with young kids through elementary age; will begin meeting with sufficient interest.
YOUNG WOMEN’S SMALL GROUP (20S & 30S)
Monday, September 15 from 7:008:45PM in the CPC Conference Room; meets 1st and 3rd Mondays Barb Olson leads a study on Priscilla Shirer’s Gideon with DVD lecture and discussion.
TUESDAY EVENING SMALL GROUP STUDY
Tuesdays, September 9-December 9 from 6:45-8:45PM in Room 10; meets 2nd and 4th Tuesdays Our fall study is Gideon by Priscilla Shirer. This study features DVD lecture, homework, small group discussion, fellowship, and prayer. Contact: Jane Pooler at jane. plr55@gmail.com.
60S AND STILL GROWING
Wednesdays, September 3 & 17 from 1:00-2:30PM in the Parlor; meets 1st and 3rd Wednesdays Join this dedicated ministry of older women who are growing in relationship with Jesus and each other by studying Scripture. Contact: Sandy Thoermer at 952.249.2893.
MEN
TUESDAY EVENING GROUP
Tuesdays beginning September 9 from 7:00-8:00PM in Room 201 All are welcome in this men’s group that recently started meeting.
DAD’S GROUP
Wednesdays beginning September 17 from 6:15-7:30PM in the Parlor Led by Allen Pofahl and Tom Wagner, this group meets whenever there is Wednesday night programming for kids and students. We focus on growing in our roles as dads of young children through early high school.
THURSDAY MORNING GROUP
Thursdays from 7:00-8:00AM in Room 108 Deepen your faith in this men’s group led by James Madsen as we continue our study of Romans.
THURSDAY MORNING GROUP
Thursdays from 7:00-8:00AM in Room 201 This men’s group, led by Matt Faulkner, digs into God’s Word together.
NEW! FRIDAY MORNING GROUP
Fridays at 7:00-8:00AM This new group will begin meeting with sufficient interest.
ADULT MIXED
FAITH, FELLOWSHIP, & FUN
2nd Sundays from 5:30-8:30PM in a nearby home This intergenerational group welcomes new members as they focus together on prayer, fellowship, and growing together.
NEW! ADOPTION SMALL GROUP
Wednesdays beginning October 1 from 6:00-7:20PM in a nearby home Join other adoptive parents and those considering adoption for a sevenweek small group studying the Connected Families book Discipline That Connects with Your Child’s Heart. Led by Grant and Anna Braasch. Childcare and kids’ programming at CPC available.
COUPLES
Being in a couples’ group is a great way to strengthen your marriage and grow together. Our groups are based on age ranges and life stages and generally meet one evening a month in homes. We are launching new groups for 20s-30s and 50s and up; additional age groups with a variety of meeting times are also available. Visit cpconline.org/register for options.
MEN MEN’S BREAKFAST
Saturday, October 4 from 7:00-9:00AM in the Fellowship Hall Men are invited for food, fellowship, and to hear from Bob Lupton, author of Toxic Charity. Cost: $10 by 12:00PM on October 2; $15 at the door. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Deb Carlson at x316; debc@cpconline.org.
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WOMEN TUESDAY AFTERNOON WOMEN’S STUDY
Tuesdays beginning September 9 from 1:00-2:30PM in Room 107 Carolyn Beatty leads an in-depth Bible study on John. This group generates lively discussions and cares for one another. Contact: Judy Romine at 952.929.4973.
MOM’S MORNING
Large Group Wednesdays, September 10 (Fellowship Hall) & 24 (Fireside Room) from 9:30-11:30AM; meets 2nd and 4th Wednesdays Join other moms for fellowship and inspirational speakers. The kick-off features Teri Johnson on “Who Are You Really?” On September 24, Katie Sanders presents, “Sticky Faith: Practical Ideas to Build Lifelong Faith in Your Kids.” Cost: $50/year; $50/child for childcare by September 2; $60/child after September 2. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Tara Wagner at taramwagner@ gmail.com. Small Groups Meets 1st, 3rd, and 5th Wednesdays from 9:30-11:30AM Small groups are safe places to ask questions and be honest. Groups allow you to develop relationships through Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and Christ-centered support. Cost: $50/child for childcare by September 2; $60/child after September 2. Register: cpconline. org/register. Contact: Stacia Fetters at stacia.fetters@gmail.com.
NEEDLEWORK GUILD
Saturday, September 13 from 10:00AM-2:00PM in the Fellowship Hall; meets 2nd Saturdays 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. Contact: Sally Stoutenburgh at 952.927.6915.
WOMEN IN THE WORD
Mondays beginning September 15 from 9:3011:45AM in Anderson Hall (Room 204) This fall, we study 1 and 2 Thessalonians using Beth Moore’s latest study Children of the Day. Whatever our circumstances, God’s timing is perfect! Our format includes large-group DVD lecture, small CPC LIFE
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group discussion, and fellowship. Childcare available ($50/semester). Cost: $25. Register: cpconline.org/ register. Contact: Ann Schofield at womenintheword@cpconline.org.
MOMS OF TEENS
Large Group Kick-Off Thursday, September 18 from 9:1511:30AM in the Fellowship Hall Dr. Tim Johanson, local pediatrician and co-author of GIST: The Essence of Raising Life-Ready Kids, speaks on “Evolving Love: Parenting Toward Life-Readiness.” Cost: $5/session; $35/ year. Register: cpconline.org/register or at event. Contact: Colette Prohofsky at 952.920.8714; coprohof@gmail.com. Small Groups Daytime groups begin Thursday, September 25 from 9:30-11:30AM in Room 107; evening group begins Monday, October 6 at 7:00PM in Room 203; groups meet twice monthly At kick-off, women are placed in small groups to study a Christian teen parenting book. Evening group alternates between the book study and watching a video of the monthly Large Group speaker. Contact: Cheryl LaMone at 612.275.3436; cheryllam@juno.com.
CIRCLES
Circles combine fellowship, learning, and service in a small group setting. They consist primarily of women over 50; new members always welcome. Esther Circle Saturday, September 13 at 9:30AM in Room 109; meets 2nd Saturdays Women of CPC are welcome to join us for fellowship and a study on Elijah. Contact: Norma Jean Barr at 952.831.2642. Martha Circle Wednesday, September 17 at 10:00AM on the porch at Eden Avenue Grill (5101 Arcadia Avenue, Edina 55436); meets 3rd Wednesdays Kick off the year with a breakfast meeting. New friends welcome! Contact: Pat Haberkorn at 952.941.4188. Lydia Circle Saturday, September 20 at 9:30AM in the Fireside Room; meets 3rd Saturdays We hear from David Hammond, Director of Creative Worship. Contact: Ellen Hastings at 952.896.0066. Ruth Circle Meets every Wednesday at 9:30AM On the first and third Wednesdays, we
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meet in a home for food, fellowship, devotions, and prayers. On the other Wednesdays, we serve at Feed My Starving Children and at CPC. Contact: Barb Bucha at 952.470.4414
WOMEN WHO INSPIRE
Friday, September 19 from 7:009:00PM in the Great Room Hear from Sarah Bessey, author of Jesus Feminist. Books are available in Pathway. Cost: $15. Register: cpconline. org/register. Contact: Debbie Ducar at x226; debbied@cpconline.org.
50+ NESTERS
Saturday, September 6 at 6:30PM in the Fireside Room and Patio Join other active retired folks for a BBQ and Bunko. Cost: $5. Register: Mary Allen at x243; marya@cpconline.org.
EDYNAMOES
Wednesday, September 24 at 11:30AM in the Fellowship Hall Celebrate fall with a luncheon and the lively program “Yesterday’s Hits” by Edina Singing Seniors! Cost: $5. Register by September 22 to Judy Romine at 952.929.4983. Please bring Jerry’s cash receipts, can tabs, and Campbell’s labels.
CARE ABUNDANTLY SATISFIED: WEIGHT CARE GROUP
Sundays, September 7 & 21 from 9:3010:30AM in 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! Contact: Sandy Radeke at 952.452.1205; sandy_radeke@earthlink.net.
GRIEF RECOVERY
Tuesday, September 9 from 6:00-8:30PM in the 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. Contact: Debbie Manning at x275; debbiem@cpconline.org.
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
Friday, September 12 (Parlor) and Saturday, September 27 (Room 203) from 10:00AM-12:00PM; meets 2nd Fridays and 4th Saturdays Our mission is to prayerfully knit shawls with the hope that they will be vessels for God’s comfort and love. All welcome. Coaching, materials, and fellowship provided. Contact: Pat Johnson at 952.947.0734.
GRACE & HOPE FOR OUR CHILDREN
Tuesday, September 16 from 7:008:30PM in the Parlor; meets 3rd Tuesdays Does your child experience emotional or mental health issues? Join other parents, friends, and caregivers for support and to hear from a speaker. Contact: Doug Brown at 612.839.9992; dbrown@dcbrowninc.com.
BEGINNING AGAIN
Saturday, September 20 from 9:00-11:00AM in Anderson Hall (Room 204); meets 3rd Saturdays CPC’s support, resource, and friendship community for those dealing with practical issues following the death of a spouse. Join us for breakfast and fellowship. Cost: $10. Register: Mary Allen at x243; marya@cpconline.org.
LIVING IN THE TENSION
Sunday, September 21 at 6:15PM in the Fireside Room Living in the Tension is a safe space intended to build bridges between the Church and the LGBT community. Come to peacefully and productively discuss faith and sexuality using Andrew Marin’s book, Love Is an Orientation. Contact: Debbie Manning at x275; debbiem@cpconline.org.
LAY CARE MINISTRY TRAINING
Mondays, September 22-November 24 from 7:00-8:30PM in Anderson Hall (Room 204) Become a trained Lay Minister to encourage, support, and provide tangible acts of service to those who are hurting. Areas include Grief Recovery, One-on-One Support, Hospital Ministry, Prayer & Healing, and Senior Visitation. Register: Debbie Manning at x275; debbiem@cpconline.org.
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MISSIONS AFRIZO CONCERT AND GALA
Friday, September 26 at 5:30PM at CPC Enjoy a special concert by Afrizo, a silent auction, and African food tasting stations. The evening benefits student scholarships to Daystar University in Nairobi, Kenya. For tickets or to volunteer, contact Jennifer Harmening at 952.892.3880; harmeningtj@comcast.net.
URBAN HOMEWORKS WORK DAY
Saturday, October 4 from 8:30AM-3:00PM Work alongside other CPCers aged 16 and over to rehab a home in North Minneapolis for a low-income family. All skill levels welcome. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Cooper Butler at cooper. butler@gmail.com.
GO! TRIP: LUSAKA, ZAMBIA
Trip Dates: October 24-November 5 Learn about the work of Jubilee Centre, an organization dedicated to equipping and serving pastors, professionals, missionaries, and Christian leaders in Zambia. Attend the Global Leadership Summit with local leaders and pastors. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Leslie Boie at x274; leslieb@cpconline.org.
URBAN HOMEWORKS QUICKSILVER CREW
Weekly at Urban HomeWorks constructions sites; times vary Seeking retired individuals for the QuickSilver crew! Bring construction skills or learn on the job. Contact: Cody Menning at 651.308.9864.
CALVARY S.T.E.P. (STUDENT TUTORING & ENRICHMENT PROGRAM)
Wednesdays from 5:00-5:45PM followed by dinner at Calvary Baptist Church (2608 Blaisdell Ave. S., Minneapolis 55408) Help elementary-aged kids in K-5th grades receive one-on-one tutoring, then serve them a meal followed by spiritual programming. Contact: Sarah Sutliff at sasutliff@ comcast.net.
MUSIC CHOIRS AND ENSEMBLES FOR ALL AGES
We invite you and your children to participate in one of our choirs, the Contemporary Worship Ensemble, or instrumental groups that help lead CPC worship. This is a great way to serve, grow in faith, and meet others. Learn more in the Music Ministries brochure or at cpconline.org/music. Contact: Heather Hood at x204; heatherh@cpconline.org.
KIDS WEEKEND PROGRAMS
Beginning September 6/7 during Saturday 5:15PM, Sunday 9:30AM, 11:00AM, and 5:00PM services During weekend services, we minister to children (6 weeks through 6th grade) and families by engaging kids in a relationship with Jesus. If you have not previously, please register for weekend programs at cpconline. org/register. Contact: Tammy Mitchell at x216; tammym@cpconline.org.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT PROGRAMS
Beginning Wednesday, September 17 Wednesday programs for 1st-5th graders are a place to learn about God and living faith through music, friendship, reading the Bible, and connection to leaders. Choirs (1st-5th graders): 6:006:45PM Mission Mania (4th-5th graders): 6:00-6:45PM Club (1st-5th graders): 6:45-7:30PM Cost: $30/first child, $20/second child, $10/third child; max $60/family. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Sara Lightbody at x203; saral@cpconline.org.
FAMILY COMMUNION WORKSHOP
Saturday, October 4 at 3:30PM in Anderson Hall (Room 204) For elementary-aged children and their families. We discuss why Communion is special. Led by Kari Dubord and a CPC pastor. Register: Tammy Mitchell at x216; tammym@ cpconline.org.
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STUDENTS PARENT INFO NIGHTS
6-11th grades: Wednesday, September 3 from 7:00-8:00PM in the Sanctuary; 12th grade: Sunday, September 21 at 6:15PM We invite all parents to learn what your student(s) will experience this year. Meet staff, learn about Sticky Faith, hear our vision, and get the info you need to make this year a success! Contact: Erin Hettinger at x305; erinh@cpconline.org.
TAPESTRY
Tuesdays, September 9 & 23 at 6:30PM in Anderson Hall (Room 204) A ministry for kids and students with special needs. Contact: Kari Dubord at x261; karid@cpconline.org.
MOSAIC WORSHIP SERVICE
Sunday, September 21 at 12:30PM in the Sanctuary Mosaic is a worship service for kids and students with special needs and their families. Noises, sounds, and movements are welcome! Contact: Kari Dubord at x261; karid@cpconline.org.
STUDENT REGISTRATION
All 6th-12th graders must register in order to participate in Elevate, Engage, and HSM programs and small groups. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Erin Hettinger at x305; erinh@cpconline.org. For more information on Student Ministries programs (grades 6-12), see page 16.
TABLE KICK-OFF PARTY AND OUTDOOR WORSHIP
Sunday, September 7 at 5:00PM at Lake Normandale Bandshell (5901 West 84th Street, Bloomington 55438) Join us as we kick off the year with outdoor worship, games, food, and music. All are welcome—invite friends and family!
NEW TIME CHANGE AT THE TABLE
Beginning Sunday, September 14 The Table worship service shifts to 5:00PM to allow more time to hang out together and attend after-service events. CPC LIFE
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A New Look for Student Ministries! Student Ministries has undergone a rebranding to visually reflect a cohesive look from middle school to high school. These new logos represent our core values and our goal to see students develop a faith that sticks beyond graduation.
Coming Up This Fall
All students must register at cpconline.org/register. PARENT INFO NIGHTS (6th-11th grades): Wednesday, September 3 from 7:00-8:00PM in the Sanctuary; (12th grade): Sunday, September 21 at 6:15PM We invite all parents to learn what your student(s) will experience this year. Meet staff, learn about Sticky Faith, hear our vision, and get the info you need to make this year a success!
ELEVATE AND ENGAGE (6th-8th grades): Wednesdays beginning September 10 from 6:15-7:30PM; check-in in the Great Room HSM FALL KICK-OFF (9th-11th grades): Wednesday, September 17 from 8:00-9:15PM in the Sanctuary HSM HOUSE GROUPS (9th-11th grades): Wednesdays beginning September 24 from 8:00-9:15PM (9th grade in the Fireside Room; 10th-11th grades offsite); (12th grade): Sundays beginning September 21 at The Table at 5:00PM
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I N O U R F A M I LY
In Our
Family CONGRATULATIONS TO:
Theresa and Travis Lamb on the birth of their son, William Robert, on April 16. Rachel Ann Johnson and Shaun Michael Murphy, who were married May 24. The Rev. Mike Hotz officiated. Allison Rebecca Bolton and Derek Daniel Swanson, who were married on May 30. The Rev. Rich Phenow officiated. Cassie and Jeremy Olson on the birth of their triplets, Cora, Carter, and Cole, on May 31. Meghan Ann Novak and Ryan Andrew Bachman, who were married on June 7. Pastor Brad Jackson officiated. Allison Rae Euson and Eric John Eickhof, who were married on June 21. The Rev. Dan Anderson officiated. Patricia Lucille Dolan and Kevan Brandan Plaetzer, who were married on June 28. The Rev. Paul Tshihamba officiated. Kaylyn Marie Gelhar and Jordan Vernon Kruse, who were married on June 28. The Rev. Rich Phenow officiated. Kari and Matt Norman on the birth of their daughter, Madeline Mae, on June 29. Lisa Christine Ernster and Jonathan Paul Marthaler, who were married on July 19. The Rev. Timothy Johnson from Hope Community Church officiated. Mary Mae Klecker and Andrew John Cornelius, who were married on July 26. The Rev. Dr. John Crosby officiated.
August 2. The Rev. Dr. John Crosby officiated. Julie Ann Kohner and Philip Leonard Hinderaker, who were married on August 9. The Rev. Paul Tshihamba and Rev. Dr. Scott K. Seidler co-officiated.
August 7. Bee sat in the same pew for every 9:30AM Sunday service. To read Bee’s faith story from last summer, please visit cpconline.org/cpclife and click on the Summer 2013 issue. William Appel on the passing of his wife, Louise Appel, on August 10.
IN THE HOSPITAL 5/30-8/12
The children of George Tjaden, who passed away on June 26. George was 99-years-old.
Donna Merchant Don Smith Lucie Mikkelson Rick Lidstone Larry Carlson Barbara Inglist Barbara McMurtry John Horton Isaiah Trummel Samuel Beltz Darrell Nelson
Karen Scofield on the passing of her father, Harold Hedenquist, on July 2.
STAFF TRANSITIONS:
SYMPATHY TO:
Barbara McMurtry on the passing of her husband, Lyndon “Mac” McMurtry, on June 8.
The children of Linda Bliss, who passed away on July 12. The family of Renee Erickson, who passed away on July 13. Jane (Dale) Eastlund on the passing of her mother, Doreen Nachtigal, on July 19. Jane Hawkins on the passing of her brother, John “Jack” Reardon, on July 23. Sue and Lisa Enger on the passing of Sue’s husband and Lisa’s father, Don Enger, on July 24. Don was a retired Edina police officer. Jeanne Fraley and children, on the passing of Jeanne’s husband, Elwin Fraley, on July 31. Ruth Tate on the passing of her husband, Don Tate, on July 31.
Hannah Ruth Rinehart and Austin James Hatch, who were married on July 26. The Rev. Rich Phenow officiated.
Judy Schmidt on the passing of her sister, Ann Gray, on August 1. Kathe Drake on the passing of her sister, Jeanne Knight, on August 5.
Holly Mae Hornseth and Joseph David Janiszewski, who were married on
The children of Bernardine “Bee” Scofield, who passed away on
Kids’ Ministries Jill Campbell left her position of Ministry Assistant. Kari Dubord becomes Director of Kids’ Ministries. Tammy Mitchell joins as Ministry Assistant. Donna Schubbe left her positions of Childcare Coordinator and Associate Director of Early Childhood. Missions Dee McIntosh joins our staff as Associate Pastor of Missional Community Engagement.
FINANCIAL UPDATE
July 1, 2014 – July 31, 2014 Ministry Offering Budget: $557,028.46 Actual Offering: $610,940.73 Variance: $53,912.27 June and July Mission Focus (Camp Heartland and Families Moving Forward):$16,487.38 YTD Mission Focus Total: $16,487.38 Expenses are under budget year-to-date.
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Dr. John Ellis Mary Peterson Barb Oleson Judi Johnson Bonnie Scaife Bev Meyer Matt Johnson Tim Jarvis Paul Olson Jim Deanovic Joan Culbreth Lois Loomis
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of the
MIND “THIS IS HOW WE KNOW WHAT LOVE IS: JESUS CHRIST LAID DOWN HIS LIFE FOR US. AND WE OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES
Books, music, quotes, apps, art, videos, websites, people, places, & things that get us to think about God in new & exciting ways.
FOR OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS.” – 1 JOHN 3:16
“The church, with all of its flaws, is still God’s chosen way of getting his work done. We have the privilege of making the invisible God visible to a hurting world. ” –Rick Warren, pastor of Saddleback Church and author of The Purpose-Driven Life
Toxic Charity
By Bob Lupton “In his book Toxic Charity, Bob Lupton helps us reexamine even our best intentions when it comes to charitable giving and charitable work. An absolute mustread if we truly love our neighbor (the poor) and have any kind of heart for mission!”
Read how CPCers have practiced being the church since it was founded in 1955. Christ Presbyterian Church: The First 33 Years is for sale this September in the Great Room for $5.
- ELI MANSFIELD, DIRECTOR OF MISSONAL ENGAGEMENT (complimentary copies are available in September; Bob speaks in services October 4/5)
Steve Wiens (former CPC staff member) recently shared during CPC services his vision for a new church plant. Check out this website to learn more:
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AFRIZO is a group comprised of students from Daystar University in Nairobi, Kenya. They come to CPC on Friday, September 26 at 5:30PM for the Afrizo Concert and Gala benefitting Daystar scholarships.
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STAFF SPOTLIGHT:
Dee McIntosh Dee has served as the Associate Pastor of Missional Community Engagement since July 2014.
Q Your title is “Associate Pastor of Missional Community Engagement.” What does that mean?
The idea of “urban and local missions” has a very bad stigma around it. “Urban” is not a great way to qualify the environment of under-resourced families. North Minneapolis is a perfect example of this: I live in North and to my left and to my right are very wealthy families, and then behind us are very poor families. “Local” is kind of the same thing—what does local really mean? “Missional Community Engagement” is intentional interaction and engagement with communities of people within the US.
Q This has been a lifelong passion for you; how did it come about?
I’m originally from Miami, Florida. I am the oldest of four kids with a single mom. We were homeless for a while; from 5th-8th grade there was a lot of transition. Coming out of that, I had a growing passion for kids just like me, growing up in the same situation and setting. I received a Masters of Divinity from Bethel University in Theological Studies, but I also have a background in Hebrew, Greek, and Community Ministry Leadership. My husband and I now own a duplex in North Minneapolis. We live on one side and rent out the other side to families who do not qualify for Section 8 [rent subsidies for low-income families] but also do not have enough money to live in other expensive housing. We’ve been there eight years and it’s not the easiest thing to do, but it’s part of our ministry. Sometimes it kicks our butts.
Q On October 4/5, Bob Lupton is coming to speak on his book Toxic Charity (see left). How are his ideas shaping new Missions initiatives at CPC?
Over the last 25 years, there has been an ongoing conversation about traditional models of evangelism in the church. These models have not been helpful but harmful—by enabling people and keeping them where they are. Many 20- and 30-somethings are aware of this; they’re big into changing the world, but they want to do it in effective ways. We’ve been actively working to critique CPC’s models so that they will empower and help people maintain their dignity. I would say to you: Read the Bob Lupton book—it is definitely a must-read—and come hear him speak. And if you have any questions, come find me!
FAST FACTS ABOUT DEE
Family: Husband, Cecil (married 6 years), and sons, Levi (5) and Jesaia (3), who love superheroes Guilty pleasures: Powerlifting, hard cider Favorite TV Show: Seinfeld (I watch it every day)
Favorite Vacation Spot: Plant City, FL : The Winter Strawberry Capital of the World! Bucket List: Go to Brazil for the 2016 Olympics—I know some of the girls on the USA Volleyball team.
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Non-Profit Org. US Postage
PAID
Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 1859
6901 Normandale Road | Edina, MN 55435
We do a special mailing of the September issue of CPC Life in hopes that you will find within its pages new ways to engage with the CPC community this ministry year. The September issue is the only issue we mail each year. Future copies of CPC Life are available at CPC or at cpconline.org/cpclife.
NE W FALL WORSHIP SE RIE S
Worship Times this Month Saturdays at 5:15PM | Contemporary Worship Sundays at 9:30AM | Traditional Worship Sundays at 11:00AM | Contemporary Worship Sundays at 5:00PM | The Table (time effective September 14) Wednesday, September 17 at 12:00PM | Mid-Month Chapel Service
This Month in Worship September 6/7 | The Mission of CPC | John Crosby speaking; The Table at Lake Normandale Bandshell September 13/14 | This Day: Be Amazed | John Crosby speaking; Matt Moberg at The Table September 20/21 | This Day: Be Surrendered | John Crosby speaking; Steph Spencer at The Table September 27/28 | This Day: Be Present | Debbie Manning speaking at all services October 4/5 | Special Guest Bob Lupton speaking at all services
Prayer: We often wished we did it more, we did it better, it made a difference. The disciples witnessed the effectiveness of Jesus’ prayers and longed to pray like the teacher they followed. In this study of the Lord’s Prayer, we are invited to learn how to pray, to understand how prayer drives the mission of Christ, and to embrace the call He puts before us, this day, to live a life infused by prayer.
Christ Presbyterian Church | 6901 Normandale Road, Edina, MN 55435 | 952.920.8515 | cpconline.org | facebook.com/cpconline | @CPCEdina
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