FPC Shakopee Blog

Vacation Bible School (VBS) 2010

2009-07-09T05:12:00.001-07:00

Last months VBS program “POWER LAB - Discovering Jesus’ Miraculous Power” was a great success. Over 20 kids and adults got to learn about God’s love through interactive activities songs and lessons. Thank you to everyone that made the week a BIG success. Now it’s time to begin planning for next near. Our 2010 Theme will be “Crocodile Dock” where no matter what station the kids are exploring, they will hear the daily Bible Point–and experience it in a new way! At Crocodile Dock, every activity plays an important role in the overall Bible learning experience. Kids will love this multi-sensory trek through Crocodile Dock!

Our 2010 VBS will run mornings June 21st – 25th with the final VBS program on Sunday June 27th. So mark you calendars NOW and think about kids you know who would benefit from this program. Also keep in mind our theme as we will need lots of props. The theme is set in the bayou and we’ll be looking for items like Spanish moss, inflatable alligators, bugs, snakes, rope lights (to make your bayou glow), green or blue material, fishing nets or other fishing equipment, lanterns, crates, and greenery – basically anything you may find in a swamp. We’ll also be looking to build a dock (pallets) and a swamp shack for our main stage. If you have or find any of these props or have other great ideas please contact Mike or Colleen Bush.

A Message From Pastor Bev

2009-07-09T05:09:00.001-07:00

A good journey begins with knowing where we’ve been, where we are,
and being willing to go somewhere else!

Chapter 11 in the book of Hebrews speaks of the great faith of God’s people. The kind of Faith that makes us sure of what we hope for and gives us proof of what we cannot see.

Last June, in my candidacy sermon, I asked if we could keep our eyes on Jesus as we get out of the boat together. For when we do keep our eyes on Christ, we will be able to do the unreachable, the unthinkable, uncomfortable, things that only Christ calls us to do.

Just shy of one year ago, because we said ‘yes’ to being willing to get out of the boat and to go somewhere else, the First Presbyterian Church of Shakopee along with Rick and myself, took a leap of faith. Together we began our Christ planned journey, a place called the ‘unknown’. But the one thing I was confident about is that… Christ encourages us and His love comforts us. While God's Spirit unites us, as we walk where He is leading us.
Do you feel the Holy Spirit walking with us?

There is a goal that we have not yet reached, but Christ has taken hold of us. So together, we must keep on running and struggling and sometimes even swimming or walking, to take hold of the prize. Ultimately, our personal prize is being with Christ forever, but along the way, (thankfully) Christ leads us to places in which we can use His power to be brave – to be helpful and to share with others God’s powerful love for us as we further the Kingdom of God.

Because of our faith, we know that the world was made at God's command. We also know that what can be seen was made out of what cannot be seen.

Let’s celebrate, as we know where we’ve been, we recognize where we are and that we are willing to go somewhere else! Even though the unknown sometimes feels uneasy, with our eyes on Christ… In His time, God will make all things beautifully clear to us.

So, together, we must keep going in the direction of Christ’s Calling for SFPC!

Live Every Day Enthusiastically,

Pastor Bev

FINANCE & STEWARDSHIP UPDATE

2009-07-09T05:08:00.003-07:00

Submitted by Michael Browers

Phil Klein, our new treasurer, has been developing new financial reports with the upgraded finance software. Further refinements are in progress and should be completed by mid August.

List of Needs and Wants
Want to give back to First Presbyterian Church beyond your pledges and offerings? Listed below are some items requested by staff and lay leaders that we are considering. We appreciate your generosity!

Cabinets for Kitchen
Windows
Parking Lot
Air Conditioner
Furniture for Library
Water Pitchers
Coffee Maker
Pew Pads

PARISH LIFE

2009-07-09T05:08:00.001-07:00

Submitted by Jay Hensley

Parish Life monthly meetings are held following the worship service on the first Sunday of the month. We meet at a table in the back of fellowship hall and all are invited. Parish Life is responsible for the following activities: Derby Days Parade, Wednesday night suppers, Rally Day after service festivities (i.e. Road Kill Café), Coffee Fellowship, and more. We would love to have your input regarding the planning of these events as well as your help in organizing them.

JULY MISSION – CAP AGENCY GENERAL FUND

2009-07-09T05:07:00.000-07:00

During the month of July, mission donations will go to further the work of the CAP Agency General Fund. Thank you for your generous support.

The CAP Agency assists and empowers people to achieve social and economic well-being by providing services in partnership with our communities.
Investing in People, Building Community

The CAP Agency is a private non-profit organization serving children, families, and older adults in Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties. The agency is part of a national community action association focused on reducing poverty through Case Management, an integrated service approach that addresses strengths and barriers and creates a plan for increased self-reliance. Organized in 1965, the CAP Agency’s various programs “fill the gap” by providing assistance not available elsewhere. Each year, the agency provides services to approximately 32,000 residents in the tri-county area.

Programs and Services

Nutrition
Meals on Wheels—annually provides home delivery of more than 53,000 nutritious, hot meals to home-bound residents in Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties.
Senior Dining—each year offers nutritious, hot noon meals to nearly 1,000 older adults at 20 congregate dining sites throughout Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties.
Food Shelf—located in Shakopee, a five-day supply of nutritionally balanced food is being provided to 1,000 individuals and families each month in Scott and Carver counties.
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)—promotes good health by providing nutrition information and counseling along with supplemental foods to over 2,400 women, infants, and children every month in Scott and Carver counties.

Education
Head Start—a family-centered preschool program providing education, social services, and health and nutrition services to more than 500 children 3 or 4 years old (before September 1) and their families living in Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties. Early Head Start is a home-based, year-round program for infants and toddlers (ages 0-3) and their parents residing in Dakota county. Group activities for the entire family are also provided.

Healthy Families—supports new and expectant parents from Carver and Dakota counties in the areas of child health and development, positive parenting skills, and a safe home environment through a home visiting program. Referral required.

Childcare and Crisis Care
Crisis Nursery—offers families in Carver and Scott counties up to 24 hours of overnight care or up to 5 days of day care for their children when the family is in crisis. Additional services are also available to help parents resolve the situation. Last year, 88 families turned to Crisis Nursery for help.
CCR&R (Child Care Resource & Referral)—connects families to childcare and supports childcare professionals in Scott and Carver counties.

Energy-Related Assistance
Energy Assistance Program—provides financial assistance to help renters and homeowners in Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties pay a portion of their energy bill. Funds may also be available for energy crisis situations and energy-related repairs. Last year 4,950 households received energy assistance and 1,127 households
received crisis assistance.

Weatherization—helps reduce heating and cooling costs by providing insulation,
caulking, minor furnace repairs, and furnace replacement services to more than 55 homeowners in Scott and Carver counties.
Energy Related Repair Program—assists homeowners in correcting hazardous and life-threatening safety or no heat problems due to malfunctioning or nonfunctioning heating systems. Last year, 84 homeowners in Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties received the safety repairs and installations.

Conservation Improvement Program—over 1,533 families in Dakota and Scott counties received electric conservation services and materials. CAP Agency partners with Dakota Electric, Minnesota Valley Electric and Shakopee Public Utilities to promote electrical conservation.

Clothing and Items
Thrift Shop—gently used clothing and small household items are available to residents of Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties at reasonable prices. The Thrift Shop is located at the CAP Agency office in Shakopee.
Emergency Services
Emergency Services—helps families in Scott and Carver counties get through an immediate crisis when all other resources have been exhausted. Families receive a grant or loan to assist with housing, employment, medical or personal issues.

Housing and Homeless Prevention
Permanent Supportive Housing—provides a CAP owned, rental unit for homeless individuals and families with disabilities in Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties. Last year, this program housed 28 households.

Mainstream Section 8 Housing—provided 60 rental vouchers for individuals and families with disabilities in Dakota county.

Transitional Housing—provides a CAP owned rental unit to homeless families and individuals in Scott and Dakota counties (limit of two-year occupancy.) 26 families and 13 individuals received assistance last year.

HUD Transitional Housing—provides a rental voucher for homeless families living in Scott and Carver counties.
.

Other Programs and Services
Chore—volunteers help with indoor and outdoor home maintenance for Scott and Carver county older adults so they can live independently in their own homes for as long as possible.

Getting There—assists qualified households in Scott, Carver, and Dakota Counties to purchase affordable transportation through a lease-to-own program. Must be employed 30+ hours per week for 6+ months, have minor dependent children. Must attend financial education classes. Must be able to afford ongoing monthly payments and insurance.

FAIM (Family Assets for Independence in Minnesota)—helps qualified wage earners in Scott, Carver, and Dakota Counties to save for post-secondary education, first time home ownership or starting a business. FAIM matches $3 for every $1 saved. Financial literacy classes are required.

Food Support Outreach—helps Minnesotans with low-income get the food they need for sound nutrition and well-balanced meals. Under the guidance of the USDA and DHS, monthly benefits are issued in the form of a re-usable Electronic Benefit Transfer card.

Community Projects
Food Drives—throughout the year schools, faith communities, scouts, businesses and civic organizations help replenish the CAP Agency Food Shelf.

Give Where You Live—fundraising campaign to support services and programs of the CAP Agency. Kick-off event is “A Vine-a-Fare” held each year in mid-November.

School Supply Distribution—over 1,800 children in Scott and Carver counties start school with backpacks full of school supplies. The backpacks and school supplies are donated by community members, businesses, civic organizations and faith communities.

Hope for the Holidays—adopt-a-family holiday gift sponsorship project ensures a happy Holiday for children and families in Scott and Carver counties. To ensure that no child is forgotten during the holiday season, CAP welcomes Toy Drives to provide gifts for children whose families did not participate in the adopt-a-family project. Parents can select from the gifts and toys that are donated through toy drives. Last year, over 6,300 individuals received holiday gifts.

Minnesota FoodShare Campaign—CAP participates in the March statewide
campaign which supports local food shelves.

NEWS AROUND THE CHURCH

2009-07-09T05:06:00.001-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS
Barbara Hensley is being awarded, this week in Chicago, a national award sponsored by Wells Fargo Banks and NAWBO (The National Association of Women Business Owners). The “Trailblazer Award” is given to three winners nationally and is in recognition of her development and implementation of the Hope Chest model.

NEW ADDRESS
Tal Nolting has a new address:
1850 Sarazin St.
Shakopee, MN 55379
(952) 641-2721

HELP US STAY INFORMED
If you are hospitalized, have scheduled surgery or would like a home visit please call the church office (952-445-3562) or call Pastor Bev directly (952-445-1695) and let us know. Thank you.

BIRTHDAYS THIS MONTH
7/3 Pat Zwart
7/4 Jane Rockwell
7/7 Mary Bawden
7/9 Mary Etta Shiner
7/10 Jan Oliverson
7/13 Thelma Schoen
7/14 Lynne Loewing
7/14 Tim Underwood
7/15 Jim Underwood
7/15 Tom Benson
7/19 Lyle Crider
7/19 Jeff Norland
7/20 Mary Loftness
7/30 Jack Anderson

ANNIVERSARIES THIS MONTH
7/8 Dave and Barb Willemssen
7/11 Loren and Mary Wolfe

MISSION WORK WITHIN THE CHURCH

2009-07-09T05:05:00.005-07:00

In an effort to expand their mission work within the walls of FPC, the youth group will make themselves (with adult supervision) available to congregants throughout the year for small tasks and projects. This mission work will be in addition to our annual mission trip and other group mission activities. If you have a need or a task at home where you feel the youth could be of assistance, please contact:
Sharon in the church office 445-3562 or shakopeefpc@msn.com
Mike Bush (612) 207-3996 or mbush@integra.net
Wendy Edberg (612) 805-7663 or wledberg@cbburnet.com
Jeri Benson (952) 221-5877 or jerilyn_benson@yahoo.com
Please note that this is being provided as mission work, however, all free will donations will be gladly accepted and go to offset youth group mission costs for the year.

PRESBYTERY MEETING

2009-07-09T05:05:00.003-07:00

We are hosting Presbytery on Saturday, September 12, 2009. If you are interested, able and willing to help in any way, please contact Pastor Bev.

WORSHIP ON WEDNESDAYS

2009-07-09T05:05:00.001-07:00

During the month of July you are invited to join us for Worship on Wednesdays. This celebration of our life in Christ will include songs, prayer, skits and monologues. Please plan to join us Wednesday evenings at 7:00pm for this time of worship.

DEACONS NEWS

2009-07-09T05:02:00.000-07:00

Submitted by Edie Cook

The Deacons have several committees – some are unique to the Deacons and others are part of the Session’s Commissions. Below are all the committees and the Deacon assigned to that job.
This month we are highlighting the Give-a-Ride committee headed by Shirley Bjork. If you are unable to drive to an appointment or to church, give Shirley a call. If she is not available, call another Deacon.

Give-a-Ride Shirley Bjork 445-6008

Card Ministry Bev Friend 496-1910

Flowers (newborns/death) Brenda Norland 445-9088

Visitation Bev Friend 496-1910

Nursery Scott Theis 496-0916

Finance and Stewardship Rick Modlin 445-1695

Newsletter Edie Cook 445-4864

Personnel Lyle Crider 496-0822

Property and Maintenance Scott Theis 496-0916

Church Nominating Gail Hall 445-1097

Christian Education Edie Cook 445-4864

Parish Life Colleen Bush 440-6546

Missions Shirley Bjork 445-6008

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!

2009-07-09T05:01:00.001-07:00

Submitted by Dave Loftness

WHAT? 2009 SHAKOPEE FAITH FEST
WHEN? AUGUST 22 - Noon to 6:00pm
NEW LOCATION? HUBER PARK, SHAKOPEE

Yes, this IS a new twist on our Shakopee Faith Fest. In fact, it is several new twists:

First, this is a NEW LOCATION – HUBER PARK. With these new facilities and using a central location not tied to any one church, we hope to encourage more community participation (including those without a church, central to our mission statement).

Second, we decided to try holding this event WITHOUT RAIN! As you recall, we had the event dampened plenty in the past, so we will try August 22nd when the average temp is 78 and rain is a rarity.

Third, we have our two partner churches stepping up in their involvement and we brought an invitation to ALL THE CHURCHES in Shakopee to join us, both as guest and hosting.

Most of our “traditional” elements will continue to be included. The multiple area musical groups will still be central to the program, along with food, raffle, prizes and activities for kids and adults. We will also be adding to our web site: shakopeefaithfest.com

We’ll continue to keep you posted on our plans, but for now, PLEASE, MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!

UPLIFTING OUR CHURCH FAMILY

2009-07-09T04:58:00.000-07:00

We have begun a new way to uplift the families of our congregation. Each Sunday you will be asked to pray for a specific family in our congregation during the week. For July, please pray for the following families:

July 5 Loren and Mary Wolfe and family
July 12 Steve, Karen and Cheyenne Arrell and family
July 19 Verda Wolf and family
July 26 Carol Balvance and family

Youth Group Mission Trip

2009-07-09T04:55:00.001-07:00

The 2009 JR & SR High Mission Trip will take us to Nashville, TN July 11th – 19th. There are 12 students and 5 adults making the trip and we are looking forward to working with 3 local nonprofit organizations in the area. To learn more about the missions of the 3 three nonprofit groups listed below follow the links to each of their websites:

· Bethlehem Center - http://www.bethlehemcenters.org/

· Lighthouse Ministries - http://lighthousefamilyministries.org/

· African Leadership – http://www.africanleadership.org

Each of these organizations offers a variety of ways to positively impact people’s lives through the support of these organizations. As with all nonprofits, they struggle daily to meet the needs of communities they serve.

One of the most exciting features of this trip is that the group will get an opportunity to go into a live recording studio and record a CD of some of their favorite songs. These CD’s will be available shortly after our return to Minnesota.

In advance, we would like to thank Cross Pointe Church for hosting our Group while in Nashville and Ladue Chapel in St Louis for hosting us on our to and from Nashville.

Vacation Bible School Update

2009-07-09T04:54:00.001-07:00

June 15th – 19th was a great, fun packed week at First Presbyterian Church, as our summer VBS program “POWER LAB - Discovering Jesus’ Miraculous Power” was in full swing. Kids from age 3 through 6th Grade filled our halls and learned about Jesus through song, lab experiments, video, and many other fun activities. The kids finished off the week by singing at the church service on Sunday

Be sure to mark your calendar fro next years VBS program. We are looking at another exciting program and will host our 2010 VBS program mornings of June 21st – 25th with a program on Sunday June 27th. We hope to see you all there for the fun filled week of learning. Look for more details coming in the spring of 2010.

SUNDAY SCHOOL

2009-05-30T18:23:00.001-07:00

A special thank you to the dedicated and hard working staff of the 2008/2009 Sunday School. Superintendent Judy Beck, teachers Elnara Browers, Betty Hvidsten, Colleen Bush, Sharon Rognlie, music volunteer Jan Oliverson, all-around “go to guy” Ken Oliverson and substitutes JoAnn Geis, Donna Case, Annette Nicholas and Scott Theis. Thank you all for the time you make for the children of our congregation!

We would also like to acknowledge the “graduating” 6th graders. They will be truly missed by all of us.

Noah Theis
Austin Myhre
Mallory Glynn
Brandon Bush
Nathan Nicholas

OFF TO NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE FOR MISSION

2009-05-30T18:22:00.004-07:00

Submitted by Wendy Edberg
The Youth Group of our church along with five chaperones will be traveling by vans to Nashville, Tennessee July 11 - 19. The group of 18 workers will be performing various missions which will include work with the Bethlehem Project, meals on wheels, maintenance in impoverished areas and work with African refugee children. Mission trips are an excellent first step for a deeper and more meaningful relationship with God and His mission in the world. Thank you for supporting our group throughout the year allowing us to spread God's word.
~ FPC Youth Group ~

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

2009-05-30T18:22:00.003-07:00

Submitted by Colleen Bush
Last chance to sign up for Vacation Bible School for children ages 3 to 5th grade. VBS is June 15 – 19 from 9:00 to 11:30. The cost is $10 per child $30 max per family. VBS Power lab T-shirts can also be purchased for an additional $5. Our theme this year is Power Lab - Discovering Jesus Miraculous Power where students will take part in exciting experiments, engage in dramas and music and learn about Jesus in a fun, interactive environment. We still have room and would love to get some more kids to attend, so get your child, grandchild, nephew/niece registered. Also feel free to have them invite a friend to join them for this week. Deadline for registration is Friday, June 5, but earlier would be better for proper planning by the VBS staff.

MISSION WORK WITHIN THE CHURCH

2009-05-30T18:22:00.001-07:00

COMING SOON! FPC COMMUNITY GARDEN

2009-05-30T18:21:00.002-07:00

Submitted by Michael Browers

PLANT IT. GROW IT. SHARE IT.
First Presbyterian Church will be setting the groundwork for a community garden program that will be made available to FPC church members. Church members interested in becoming a community gardener may sign up to reserve space within the 40' x 30' garden that will be setup on church property. Participants are asked to monitor, water and care for their plots and as a result are encouraged to keep half of the produce grown in their plot. We ask that the other half of the produce be provided to FPC, which will in turn donate the produce to the food shelf. If you are interested in participating, please contact either Pastor Bev or Gaylen Case, (952-445-4281), with the following information: your name, phone number and how much gardening space you are interested in using.

PARISH LIFE UPDATE

2009-05-30T18:21:00.001-07:00

Submitted by Michael Browers
We are currently in the process of organizing a comprehensive list of activities for the calendar year to help us plan and coordinate church events. Please prayerfully consider volunteering your time and talents. Efforts from a variety of people help infuse the church with enthusiasm, excitement, and new energy.

FAITH FEST

2009-05-30T18:20:00.006-07:00

Submitted by Mike Bush
Faith Fest is just around the corner. The event this year will be held at Huber Park in downtown Shakopee on Saturday, August 22. We will again be partnering with two other area churches (Faith Lutheran and Friendship Church). Planning has already begun to make this a great event. We are still in need of volunteers to help on some of the sub-committees. If interested contact Dave Loftness (612-720-1898).

WORSHIP ON WEDNESDAYS

2009-05-30T18:20:00.005-07:00

PRESBYTERY MEETING

2009-05-30T18:20:00.003-07:00

We are hosting Presbytery on Saturday, September 12, 2009. If you are interested, able and willing to help in any way, please contact Pastor Bev.

MISSION FOR JUNE

2009-05-30T18:20:00.001-07:00

College of the Ozarks is an unique campus where students work to pay for their education and may graduate debt free. They gain work experience in many programs on campus. This college offers more than 312 academic majors. Students are required to work 15 hours during the week, along with two 40 hour weeks during school breaks. This school was founded by a Presbyterian minister who wanted to help the poor people in the Ozark area. The students learn to work with their head, their heart and their hands at the College of the Ozarks which is located southeast of Branson, Missouri. This school has been famous for its fruitcakes since the 1930’s and produces about 30,000 fruitcakes each year which generates significant income and good will for the school. Please give generously to College of the Ozarks during the month of June.

DEACONS FUNDRAISER

2009-05-30T18:19:00.005-07:00

Submitted by Edie Cook
The Deacon's annual fund raiser with the Cub Food Wagon is set for June 25-June 28. Join in the fun of selling hot dogs and brats as you get to know other church members! The sign up sheet is located on the narthex bulletin board. Two adults can work with one youth (6th grade and up) for each shift. If you have questions, contact Gail Hall at 445-1097 or Edie Cook at 445-4864.

Moving To France

2009-05-30T18:19:00.003-07:00

Larry and Amy Lane are moving to France! If you would like to track their adventures go to http://looseintoulouse.blogspot.com.

HELP US STAY INFORMED

2009-05-30T18:19:00.001-07:00

If you are hospitalized, have scheduled surgery or would like a home visit please call the church office (952-445-3562) or call Pastor Bev directly (952-445-1695) and let us know. Thank you.

CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATE!

2009-05-30T18:18:00.002-07:00

Congratulations to Jesse Schanus who will graduate from Jordan High School in June and will be honored during the worship service on June 14. Jesse will pursue a career in engineering. Good luck, Jesse!

BIRTHDAYS THIS MONTH

2009-05-30T18:18:00.001-07:00

First of all, my apologies to Ashley Salden whose birthday was on May 19 and inaccurately published as Ashley Edberg’s birthday last month. Hope it was great Ashley!
-Sharon

4 Pam Pint
6 Dick Olin
7 Marty Underwood
9 Josh Theis
12 Betty Engel
18 Ina Lipke
20 Frank Bawden
25 Rick Modlin
25 Ron Rognlie
30 Louise Wiggen

ANNIVERSARIES THIS MONTH

2009-05-30T18:17:00.002-07:00

6 Dick and Frieda Olin
14 Rick and Pastor Bev Modlin
18 Phil and Judy Rudell
20 Ron and JoAnn Geis
21 Bob and Wendy Edberg
21 Mike and Cindy Volkart
30 Jay and Barb Hensley

A 72 hour spirit filled experience

2009-05-30T18:17:00.001-07:00

A 72 hour spirit filled experience – beginning on Thursday evening and ending Sunday evening (July 16-19, 2009). For three days, the body of Christ will live and study together in a worshipful time of singing, prayer and discussion. During each of fifteen talks given by laity and clergy, the theme of God’s grace is presented. Guests participate in the celebration of Holy Communion and experience God’s grace through the prayers and acts of a living Christian community. If you are interested, you are invited to visit with Pastor Bev.

FINANCE & STEWARDSHIP UPDATE

2009-05-30T18:16:00.004-07:00

Submitted by Michael Browers

NEW ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE AND COMPUTERS
During this past month we invested in state-of-art accounting software geared specifically to the accounting needs of churches such as First Presbyterian. As part of this upgrade, we also invested in a new computer suited to run the new software properly. This will significantly enhance our accounting information and tracking, which will in turn assist us in financial planning. We would like to extend a special thanks to Dick Friend who volunteered a great deal of time to research available solutions and make a recommendation.

NEW TREASURER

2009-05-30T18:16:00.003-07:00

Submitted by Mike Bush

We are please to announce that we have hired a new treasurer for First Presbyterian Church. Sharon will retain all of her administrative duties but wanted to step away from the treasurer’s position. Many thanks to Sharon for all of her years of service as treasurer. Please welcome Philip Klein to our staff. Phil comes with broad experience in accounting/bookkeeping and will be a great asset as we transition to new accounting software for the church. If you’re at the church when Phil is there be sure to stop in and welcome him to the staff.

Remember: Sunday worship begins at 9:00am.

2009-05-30T18:16:00.001-07:00

Remember: Sunday worship begins at 9:00am.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!! Submitted by Dave Loftness

2009-05-30T18:15:00.002-07:00

WHAT? 2009 SHAKOPEE FAITH FEST
WHEN? AUGUST 22 - Noon to 6:00pm
NEW LOCATION? HUBER PARK, SHAKOPEE

Yes, this IS a new twist on our Shakopee Faith Fest. In fact, it is several new twists:

First, this is a NEW LOCATION – HUBER PARK. With these new facilities and using a central location not tied to any one church, we hope to encourage more community participation (including those without a church, central to our mission statement).

Second, we decided to try holding this event WITHOUT RAIN! As you recall, we had the event dampened plenty in the past, so we will try August 22nd when the average temp is 78 and rain is a rarity.

Third, we have our two partner churches stepping up in their involvement and we brought an invitation to ALL THE CHURCHES in Shakopee to join us, both as guest and hosting.

Most of our “traditional” elements will continue to be included. The multiple area musical groups will still be central to the program, along with food, raffle, prizes and activities for kids and adults. We will also be adding to our web site: shakopeefaithfest.com

We’ll continue to keep you posted on our plans, but for now, PLEASE, MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!

Thoughts from the Pastors Office:

2009-05-30T18:15:00.001-07:00

Always be joyful and never stop praying. Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do. Don't turn away God's Spirit or ignore prophecies. Accept what is good and don't have anything to do with evil. I pray that God, who gives peace, will make you completely holy. And may your spirit, soul, and body be kept healthy and faultless until our LORD Jesus Christ returns. The one who chose you can be trusted, and he will do this.Friends, please pray for each other. Give the LORD'S followers a warm greeting. I pray that our LORD Jesus Christ will be kind to you! I Thessalonians 5 (CEV)

*Thinking of Prayer as Jesus Taught!*

Our thinking about prayer whether right or wrong, is based on our own mental conception of it.
The correct concept is to think of prayer as the breath in our lungs and the blood from our hearts.
Our blood flows and our breathing continues and we are not even conscious of it, but it never stops. And we are not always conscious of Jesus keeping us in perfect oneness with God, but if we are obeying Him, He always is.
Prayer is not an exercise, it is a way of life. So beware of anything that stops the offering up of prayer… We are to never stop praying! We are to maintain the childlike habit of offering up prayer in our hearts to God all the time.

Jesus never mentioned unanswered prayer. He had the unlimited certainty of knowing that prayer is always answered. Do you have through the Spirit of God that inexpressible certainty that Jesus had about prayer, or do you think of the times when it seemed that God did not answer your prayer? Jesus said,… everyone who asks receives…” (Matthew 7:8). Yet we say,…”but…but…because the evidence of the answer does not fit what we believe the answer should be!”
We are to never doubt that God answers prayer in the best way, not just sometimes, but every time…He makes everything beautiful in His Time! (Ecclesiastes 3)
Do we expect God’s answer to prayer or ours?
The danger we have is that we want to water down what Jesus said to make it mean something that aligns with our common sense. But, if it were only common sense, what He said would not even be worthwhile. The things Jesus taught about prayer are supernatural truths He reveals to us. And the only way to know that is to be in relationship with Christ through PRAYER!
(Adapted Words from Oswald Chambers)

UPLIFTING OUR CHURCH FAMILY

2009-05-30T18:14:00.000-07:00

On May 31, 2009 we will begin a new way to uplift the families of our congregation. Each Sunday you will be asked to pray for a specific family in our congregation during the week. For June, please pray for the following families:

May 31 Roger and Shirley Ackerman
June 7 Harold and Pat Zwart
June 14 Gary and Barb Anderson
June 21 Randy and Linda Zitterkopf
June 28 Jack and Veneta Anderson

VBS Power Lab

2009-04-01T19:37:00.001-07:00

Discovering Jesus' Miraculous Power
Preschool - 6th grade
June 15 - 19

VBS Performance Sunday, June 21 at 9:00 AM

Learn more at http://www.fpcshakopee.org/downloads/VBS.pdf

WE WORSHIP A LIVING GOD

2009-03-31T18:48:00.002-07:00

Every Sunday we prepare our hearts and our minds to worship a living God. But, what does that really mean? The definition of worship is “the service of praise, adoration, thanksgiving and petition directed toward God through actions and attitudes. Christian Worship is Trinitarian in form, as praise is offered to God through Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Worship is at the very heart of the church’s life. All that the church is and does is rooted in its worship. The community of faith gathers in response to God’s call and is formed in its worship, so worship is the principal influence that shapes our faith and is the most visible way we express the faith. In Worship, through Word and Sacrament, the church is sustained by the presence of Christ, joined in worship to the One who is the source of its life, and through our Source, the church is empowered to serve God joyfully in the world.

Christian worship joyfully ascribes all praise and honor to our Triune God and it is God who brings all things into being through the Word: written, preached, proclaimed, through song and in the Sacraments. The people of God in turn acknowledge God’s presence in the world and in their lives by responding to God.

Here are a few biblical examples of worshipping a living God…

Psalm 66 1Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth; 2 sing the glory of his name; give to him glorious praise.

Psalm 95 1O come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! 2 Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! 3 For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods. 6 O come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker! 7 For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. O that today you would listen to his voice!

Psalm 98 1O sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things. All the ends of the earth have seen the victory of our God. 4 Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises. 5 Sing praises to the LORD with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody. 6 With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the LORD. 7 Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who live in it. 8 Let the floods clap their hands; let the hills sing together for joy 9 at the presence of the LORD, for he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity.

Psalm 100 Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth. 2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come into his presence with singing. 3 Know that the LORD is God. It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name. 5 For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

Psalm 148:1-14 Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise him in the heights! 2 Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his host! 3 Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all you shining stars! 4 Praise him, you highest heavens, and you waters above the heavens! 5 Let them praise the name of the LORD, for he commanded and they were created. 6 He established them forever and ever; he fixed their bounds, which cannot be passed. 7 Praise the LORD from the earth, you sea monsters and all deeps, 8 fire and hail, snow and frost, stormy wind fulfilling his command! 9 Mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars! 10 Wild animals and all cattle, creeping things and flying birds! 11 Kings of the earth and all peoples, princes and all rulers of the earth! 12 Young men and women alike, old and young together! 13 Let them praise the name of the LORD, for his name alone is exalted; his glory is above earth and heaven. 14 He has raised up a horn for his people, praise for all his faithful, for the people of Israel who are close to him. Praise the LORD!

Psalm 149:1 Praise the LORD! Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise in the assembly of the faithful.

Psalm 150:1-6 Praise the LORD! Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty firmament! 2 Praise him for his mighty deeds; praise him according to his surpassing greatness! 3 Praise him with trumpet sound; praise him with lute and harp! 4 Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with strings and pipe! 5 Praise him with clanging cymbals; praise him with loud clashing cymbals! 6 Let everything that breathes praise the LORD! Praise the LORD!

Jesus says… I am the Light of the world, I am the Door, and I am the Good Shepherd. Jesus has absolute power over life and death. Jesus is the Good Shepherd because His light shines in the darkest of circumstances, and can open any door even the door of death. Jesus is Alive!

There are four things necessary to sustain life: air, food, light and water. However, Jesus came not only to sustain life, but also to give life and ultimately eternal life.

On Sunday, April 12, we celebrate the Risen Lord! Jesus said, I am the Resurrection and the Life. That is why we worship a living God every Sunday. We are called to Life from the Giver of Life.

Easter Morning and every Sunday let’s join and celebrate ‘life’ together as we worship a Living God!

Live Enthusiastically,
Pastor Bev

Leave a Legacy

2009-03-31T18:48:00.001-07:00

Have your life circumstances changed? It is important to your loved ones for you to update your will. When you make a will, you are helping family members deal with the future. Without a will, the state makes your decisions for you. Please also consider that you can express your love in Christ by including the church in your will through a specific, residual or contingent bequest.

Vacation Bible School

2009-03-31T18:47:00.000-07:00

!!!Vacation Bible School is coming!!!
June 15 - 19, 2009

GARAGE SALE/BAKE SALE

2009-03-31T18:46:00.002-07:00

April 24 and 25, 2009

FPC will be holding a Garage Sale/Bake Sale on Friday, April 24, from 7:00am to 6:00pm and on Saturday, April 25, from 8:00am to 1:00pm. As you know, it takes many hands to make light work! There are sign up sheets in the narthex for helpers and Dorothy Herrgott will be able to answers any questions you may have.
Items may be dropped off for the sale beginning Monday, April 20 (please don’t drop off things earlier than that as we don’t have room to store them!). Donations must be gently used and working and televisions, microwaves and computer monitors WILL NOT be accepted.

2009 Lenten Worship Service Schedule

2009-03-31T18:46:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, April 1
6:30pm Joanna, the Wife of Chuza

Palm Sunday, April 5
10:00am The Triumphant Entry

Maundy Thursday, April 9
6:30pm The Last Supper

Good Friday, April 10
6:30pm Observance of the Crucifixion

Easter Sunday, April 12
8:30am Sunrise Service
9:00am Continental Breakfast
10:00am Worship Service and Communion

THANK YOU

2009-03-31T18:45:00.004-07:00

We would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support of our recent mission trip to Belize. Again, God blessed us with safety and health, and the opportunity to open our hearts to so many in need. With the item donations and cash donations, we were able to bless so many people in need, especially at the prison. They all thank you, and so do we.

We look forward to sharing more about our trip at a later date.
God bless you all, Loren and Mary

MISSION FOR APRIL

2009-03-31T18:45:00.003-07:00

Mission offerings in April will benefit Heifer International. Heifer’s strategy is to “pass on the gift.” As people share their animals’ offspring with others – along with their knowledge, resources, and skills – an expanding network of hope, dignity, and self-reliance is created that reaches around the globe. Many children and families are looking for an opportunity to improve their lives. Your gifts can help them realize the dream of brighter futures filled with hope and happiness.

THANK YOU!

2009-03-31T18:45:00.001-07:00

Thank you to all the women of the church, especially Jan Oliverson, for making Celebrate the Gifts of Women Sunday so very special.

NEWS AROUND THE CHURCH

2009-03-31T18:44:00.000-07:00

SYMPATHY
Please remember in prayer the family of Ilse Welter. Ilse, a long-time member of First Presbyterian, passed away on March 17, 2009.

BAPTIZED
Welcomed through Baptism on March 15, 2009 was Kendal Kathleen Beck, infant daughter of Jason Beck and Jennifer Tokach-Beck.

BIRTHDAYS THIS MONTH
5 Bob Beck
5 Krystal Schanus
6 Zane Schultz
7 Dick Friend
7 Lou Kopisca
9 Mary Wolfe
9 Brandon Bush
9 Craig Whitney
10 Jim Whitney
11 Brenda Norland
12 Ron Seelye
13 Brandon Salden
18 Anthony Underwood
23 Christina Laridaen
24 Roger Ackerman
25 Phil Rudell
29 Judy Rudell
30 Rachel Theis

ANNIVERSARIES THIS MONTH
20 Ron and Donna Beeney
24 Gary and Barb Anderson
26 Jay and Traci Portwood

2009 PER CAPITA

2009-03-31T18:43:00.002-07:00

The per capita apportionment is the required assessment of $30.01 per active member of the church to support the administrative costs of the presbytery, synod and General Assembly. For 2009, our church’s per capita responsibility is $4,381.46 based on 146 members. In the first three months of 2009, $2,143.89 has been donated to the Per Capita, leaving a balance to be paid of $2,237.57. We are asking every member to do what they can to offset this amount. Please consider writing a check (earmarked on the memo line “per capita”). Thank you.

JR/SR HIGH YOUTH GROUP PROMOTES MISSION WORK WITHIN THE CHURCH

2009-03-31T18:43:00.001-07:00

In an effort to expand their mission work within the walls of FPC, the youth group will make themselves (with adult supervision) available to congregants throughout the year for small tasks and projects. This mission work will be in addition to our annual mission trip and other group mission activities. If you have a need or a task at home where you feel the youth could be of assistance, please contact:

Sharon in the church office 445-3562 or shakopeefpc@msn.com

Mike Bush (612) 207-3996 or mbush@integra.net

Wendy Edberg (612) 805-7663 or wledberg@cbburnet.com

Jeri Benson (952) 221-5877 or jerilyn_benson@yahoo.com

Please note that this is being provided as mission work, however, all free will donations will be gladly accepted and go to offset youth group mission costs for the year.

EASTER LILY CROSS

2009-03-31T18:42:00.002-07:00

The Worship and Music Commission will be purchasing Easter lilies for our traditional Easter Cross. If you would like to help defray the cost of the lilies, drop this form in the offering plate with a check for $7.50 or you may contact Sharon in the church office or Jan Oliverson at 445-4132.

Please take the lily home after the Easter Service.

SYNOD SCHOOL

2009-03-31T18:42:00.001-07:00

Synod School is a learning and personal enrichment experience for people of all ages. We seek to create an environment of hospitality, healing and hope. The week is designed for laity and clergy, individuals and families. Classes and activities are available for adults, youth and children.

Building a Culture of Peace is the theme of Synod School 2009.
Come…
• To participate in a unique experience of Christian community as we worship, study, play, and live together.
• To grow in faith through action, relationships, and a centering of the spirit;
• For continuing education, for a special family experience, or for individual growth;
• Take it all in, then return home to share and serve.

Additional information on Synod School is available in the narthex.

No Sunday School March 22

2009-03-01T15:15:00.002-08:00

There will be NO Sunday School on March 22, 2009.

NEWS AROUND THE CHURCH

2009-03-01T15:15:00.001-08:00

SYMPATHY
We offer our sympathy to the family of Werner “Buddy” Schesso who passed away on February 23, 2009. Buddy was a long time member of our church and was the brother of Louise Wiggen.

NEW MEMBERS
On March 1, 2009 we welcomed into membership Karen Arrell and Todd Myhre. Please keep them in prayer as they join the fellowship of our congregation.

BIRTHDAYS THIS MONTH
6 Brennan Benson
8 Cindy Volkart
13 Veneta Anderson
17 Noah Theis
19 Annette Nicholas
27 Shirley Ackerman

ANNIVERSARIES THIS MONTH
9 Scott and Merry Theis

THANK YOU
Thank you to the Men’s Morning Bible Study and Donna Case for the generous donation of CD players to the Sunday School rooms. We really appreciate your thoughtfulness.

Thank you to Ina Lipke, Pat Zwart, the Deacons, Ron Rognlie and Mike Bush for the purchase and assembly of Pastor Bev’s new desk, filing cabinet and chair.

Reminder: Daylight Savings March 8

2009-03-01T15:14:00.001-08:00

Just a Reminder that Daylight Savings Time begins on March 8. Clocks should ‘spring ahead’ the night before.

NEW SESSION ASSIGNMENTS

2009-03-01T15:13:00.002-08:00

At their February meeting, the Session welcomed new members Michael Browers, Wendy Edberg, Nathan Olson and Ken Oliverson. The following are the commission assignments for 2009. If you have any questions or concerns about these areas of our church please feel free to call the Commission Elder.

Judy McGovern Clerk of Session and Nominating Committee
Loren Wolfe Personnel
Ken Oliverson Property & Maintenance
Jay Hensley Parish Life
Gaylen Case Stewardship & Finance
Frieda Olin Missions
Nathan Olson Music & Worship
Michael Browers Parish Life
Wendy Edberg Christian Education

EASTER LILY CROSS

2009-03-01T15:13:00.001-08:00

MISSION FOR MARCH: ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARING

2009-03-01T15:12:00.004-08:00

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Matthew 6:21

If you were searching for God’s treasure, you’d find it in people. Every person, in every nation on earth, is treasured by God! Yet for many people life can be searingly tough.

One Great Hour of Sharing joins our hearts with God’s by providing decisive aid when disaster strikes and by helping refugees rebuild their lives. Your gift strengthens struggling communities with basics like education, health care, tools, seeds, and wells.

When we care for God’s treasured children, we ourselves are transformed. We see more clearly what matters most in life and are inspired to live courageously. Our hope rises as we realize new life is possible.

1 Timothy 6:18-19a exhorts us “to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up…the treasure of a good foundation for the future.” Our treasure lies in honoring God, doing God’s will, and loving God’s treasured people. May you find your treasure, and your heart, through sharing resources and changing lives with a generous gift to One Great Hour of Sharing.

NEW BEGINNINGS

2009-03-01T15:12:00.003-08:00

The Session is pleased to announce that beginning March 6, 2009, a church group from St. Paul will be sharing our space. Many of their members are residents of Shakopee and have found in First Presbyterian a place for Friday Bible Study without the long drive to St. Paul. This group will be using two Sunday School rooms during the evening hours on Fridays.

JR/SR HIGH YOUTH GROUP PROMOTES MISSION WORK WITHIN THE CHURCH

2009-03-01T15:12:00.001-08:00

In an effort to expand their mission work within the walls of FPC, the youth group is rolling out a new program where they will make themselves available to congregants throughout the year for small tasks and projects. These tasks may require only the services of 2 -3 of the youth as opposed to the whole group which will allow us to reach more people through smaller work groups. This mission work will be in addition to our annual mission trip and other group mission activities the group does collectively. If you have a need or a task at home where you feel the youth could be of assistance, please contact:

Sharon in the church office 445-3562 or shakopeefpc@msn.com
Mike Bush (612) 207-3996 or mbush@integra.net
Wendy Edberg (612) 805-7663 or wledberg@cbburnet.com
Jeri Benson (952) 221-5877 or jerilyn_benson@yahoo.com

The youth leaders will work with the youth based on schedule availability and the type of work requested. Please be aware that these students are very busy so we will need to work with them on the specific tasks and time availability. Please note that this is being provided as mission work, however, all free will donations will be gladly accepted and go to offset youth group mission costs for the year.

A Message from the Pastor

2009-03-01T15:11:00.001-08:00

While times for listening as well as speaking are important in any prayer time, they are especially important in Lent, and the Psalms can be a great resource for prayer. The lectionary for this 2009 season of Lent has utilized the beautiful words of the Psalm, so I encourage you to read and pray these Psalms in the next 40 days…
Lent Week One ~ Psalm 25:1-10
Lent Week Two ~ Psalm 22:23-31
Lent Week Three ~ Psalm 19
Lent Week Four ~ Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22
Lent Week Five ~ Psalm 119:9-16
Week of Palm Sunday ~ Psalm 118 Passion ~ Psalm 31:9-16
Holy Week
Monday ~ Psalm 36:1-11
Tuesday ~ Psalm 71:1-14
Wednesday ~ Psalm 70
Maundy Thursday ~ Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
Good Friday ~ Psalm 22
Saturday (Prayer Vigil) ~ Psalm 136:1-9, 23-26; 46; 19; 42; 98
Easter ~ Psalms 4; 100; 148

Let’s Prepare our Hearts and Minds to Worship a Living God!

Christ Love Be With You
Pastor Bev

2009 PER CAPITA

2009-03-01T15:10:00.000-08:00

The per capita apportionment is the required assessment of $30.01 per active member of the church to support the administrative costs of the presbytery, synod and General Assembly. For 2009, our church’s per capita responsibility is $4,381.46 based on 146 members. In January and February $1,963.85 has been donated to the Per Capita, leaving a balance to be paid of $2,417.61. We are asking every member to do what they can to offset this amount. Please consider writing a check (earmarked on the memo line “per capita”). Thank you.

NEW ELDERS AND DEACONS

2009-02-01T12:14:00.003-08:00

A big thank you to outgoing elders Merry Theis, Mike Bush and Karen Leroux and deacons Carol Balvance, Sheldon Schultz and Steve Nicholas for their years of service to our church.

And welcome to new elders Ken Oliverson, Nathan Olson, Wendy Edberg and Michael Browers and new deacons Shirley Bjork, Colleen Bush and Rick Modlin. We look forward to working with you!

LENTEN WORSHIP

2009-02-01T12:14:00.001-08:00

The Lenten Season will begin with Ash Wednesday on February 25. The Ash Wednesday service will begin at 6:30pm following Wednesday dinner at 5:40pm. Wednesday dinners will begin at 5:40pm during Lent to accommodate the weekly worship services.

NEW BABY

2009-02-01T12:13:00.003-08:00

Congratulations to Beth (Crider) and DJ Kennedy on the birth of their son Sydney Kamm Kennedy, who was born on January 16, 2009. Sydney was welcomed home by big brother Seth and big sister Sean. Proud grandparents are Lyle and Roberta Crider.

FAITH FEST

2009-02-01T12:13:00.001-08:00

There will be a kick-off meeting for the 2009 Faith Fest at 7:00pm on Tuesday, February 10. Please consider joining this planning group to set the stage for the festival this fall. There will be several churches in attendance for this meeting as we continue to bring in partnering churches for this great event.

MISSION FOR FEBRUARY: CAP AGENCY FOOD SHELF

2009-02-01T12:12:00.000-08:00

The CAP Agency Food Shelf, located in Shakopee, provides a nutritionally balanced, five-day supply of food to individuals or families from Scott and Carver Counties in need. The amount of food distributed per request is based on the number of members in the household. All food and household item donations to the CAP Agency Food Shelf are appreciated. The following items do, however, best help meet the needs of the food shelf:

Food items: Canned fruit, peanut butter, rice, cereal, baked beans, black beans, canned tuna, macaroni and cheese

Household items: Bar soap, diapers, laundry detergent, shampoo, toilet paper, toothpaste

Food Shelf donations of money are welcome. In fact, monetary donations sometimes go farther than food donations, as the CAP Agency is often able to purchase many food shelf items in bulk quantities. Monetary donations can be put in the offering plate during the month of February.

Per Capita Apportionment

2009-02-01T12:11:00.003-08:00

Blessings to you for giving to the Lord through your 2009 pledge. Your generosity is very much appreciated as we move forward in spreading Gods Word. As you may know, this is the time of year in which our 2009 per capita is due. As we are grateful for your tithe, we are also asking you to consider an additional gift to cover the cost of the First Presbyterian Church “Per Capita Apportionment”. Many people have questions as to what the Per Capita Apportionment is:

Is the Per Capita Apportionment the equivalent of Membership Dues? Is it a tax? Definitely not! A definition recommended by the Office of the General Assembly and approved by the 207th General Assembly is a follows: "Per Capita is an opportunity for all communicant members of the Presbyterian Church through the governing bodies to participate equally, responsibly, and interdependently by sharing the cost of coordination and evaluation of mission; of performing ecclesiastical, legislative, and judicial functions that identify a reformed church, while at the same time strengthening the sense of community among all Presbyterians."

The history of Per Capita goes back to at least the mid-1800's. A plan of mileage was adopted by the General Assembly to defray the costs of commissioners attending the General Assembly meeting. Uses of per capita have been broadened through the years. One of the major uses still remains, to cover the expenses of those we send to represent us at meetings of our governing bodies. Another important use is to operate our church judicial system.

For 2009, the per capita apportionment for us is $30.01 per member ("per capita" is Latin meaning each person), not per family unit. The $30.01 is broken down as $19.06 for the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area, $4.80 for The Synod of Lakes and Prairies, and $6.15 for the General Assembly. These amounts will allow each of these governing bodies to conduct their essential functions such as; Committee on Preparation for Ministry, Committee on Ministry, etc. These two committees have especially been an asset to me as I journeyed through Seminary. In addition, they were also an asset to you as you journeyed through the process of finding a new pastor.

Each member is invited and encouraged to contribute at least the amount of per capita, in addition to the amount that they would otherwise contribute. This will allow your Session to use the maximum amount possible for the Ministry of our congregation, the Presbytery, the Synod, and the General Assembly. As you prayerfully consider contributing $30.01 per confirmed member (in your household), you are taking part in what joins us together as Presbyterians. The Mission work that identifies us as Christians is above and beyond this amount, so if you are able to contribute more than this, please do, as that will help cover the per capita for some members who are unable to contribute this amount.

“7Now as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in utmost eagerness, and in our love for you—so we want you to excel also in this generous undertaking. . . 13I do not mean that there should be relief for others and pressure on you, but it is a question of a fair balance between 14your present abundance and their need, so that their abundance may be for your need, in order that there may be a fair balance.” 2 Corinthians 8:7, 13-14

February Message from Pastor Bev

2009-02-01T12:11:00.001-08:00

Valentine’s Day – the one day we set aside to tell those who are important to us how much we love them, thanking them for doing all they do. We even buy special gifts to honor them.

Do you set aside time to tell Christ how much you love Him and thank Him for all He has done for you? Do you bring him gifts?

Isaiah 45:22 "Look to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.
“The greatest difficulty spiritually, is to concentrate on God and His blessings. Troubles almost always make us look to God, but His blessings tend to divert our attention elsewhere. When you read the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew and Luke, you will find that the basic lesson of this scripture is to narrow all your interest until your mind, heart and body are focused on Jesus Christ.

Many of us have a mental picture of what a Christian should be. As we look at this image in other Christians’ lives, it becomes a hindrance to our focusing on God. It’s only when our difficulties, our trials and our worries about tomorrow all vanish do we look to God. So, Look to God, build your hope on Him no matter how many things seem to be pressing in on you. Be determined to push them aside while Looking To Him. “Look to me…” and receive salvation for it’s yours the minute you look.”
Adapted from: Oswald Chambers ~ My Utmost for His Highest

Our Heavenly Father gives us the greatest Valentine ever. He gives us His Holy Inspired Word, He gives us His time, He gives us Eternal Life. Give back to God – set time aside just for Him – Thank Him – tell Him how much you love Him!!

Happy Valentine’s Day
Pastor Bev

Wow ~ it’s 2009!

2008-12-26T19:07:00.002-08:00

It’s almost time to say goodbye to the old and hello to the new.
It’s time for New Year’s resolutions! Wow ~ it’s 2009!

All through Advent, we were preparing for the Christ-Child, for the coming Messiah. Not through trees, wreaths, lights, tinsel…not even through the Ho, Ho, Ho’s, but through the One who created us. So why did Jesus come and what He did He do after He got here?... …Jesus came to change the world, one person at a time, to call us away from the things that lead to spiritual death and lead us to the way of truth and life. He came to make us new creations. It’s a New Year and Fresh beginning – a gift from God. Enthusiastically, let’s pray and walk together, saying ‘hello’ to each new possibility in 2009.

“Kindness comes from a place in the heart”

2008-12-26T19:07:00.001-08:00

Thank you SFPC for the much-appreciated heartfelt monetary gift.
Your Christmas kindness will be used to buy something that
will always remind us of Christ’s love shinning through you.
In many ways, You have helped make this place a home.
First Presbyterian Church of Shakopee, YOU have a huge heart!

In Christ Love,
Pastor Bev and Rick

2009 PER CAPITA

2008-12-26T19:06:00.000-08:00

The per capita apportionment is the required assessment of $30.01 per active member of the church to support the administrative costs of the presbytery, synod and General Assembly. For 2009, our church’s per capita responsibility is $4,381.46 based on 146 members. We are asking every member to do what they can to offset this amount. Please consider writing a check (earmarked on the memo line “per capita”). Thank you.

ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING JANUARY 25, 2009

2008-12-26T19:05:00.000-08:00

In accordance with the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and the by-laws of First Presbyterian Church, the Session calls the congregation to its annual meeting, at 11:15 am, Sunday, January 25, 2009 in the fellowship hall.

The purpose of the meeting is to hear reports from the Session and its commissions, the Board of Deacons, 2008 end-of-year financial report and 2009 operating budget, the Nominating Committee regarding the election by the congregation of elders and deacons for the year ahead, and any other such business as is appropriate.

All active members are encouraged to attend. The meeting is open and visitors are welcome to observe. The meeting is expected to run about one hour.

BAPTISM

2008-12-26T19:04:00.002-08:00

On December 21, 2008 we welcomed, through baptism, Jac Nicholas Leroux Campbell. Jac is the son of Melani Leroux and Nicholas Campbell and the grandson of John and Karen Leroux.

THANK YOU. . .

2008-12-26T19:04:00.001-08:00

. . . to everyone who has donated to the Mitten Tree. 19 hats, 33 pairs of mittens, 51 scarves and 10 headbands were donated to the CAP Agency. Thank you to Mary Etta Shiner for spearheading this project.

. . . to everyone who donated to the winter gear drive. Dozens of coats, jackets and snow pants were donated. Thanks to Annette Nicholas for spearheading this project.

. . . to everyone who donated to the roof fund. All but $230.00 was donated to pay for the roofing bill!

. . . to everyone who donated to the organ fund. The goal was reached!!!

MISSION: CHURCH WORLD SERVICES

2008-12-26T19:03:00.001-08:00

Our special mission opportunity during the month of January is CHURCH WORLD SERVICES TOOLS AND BLANKETS. The Tools and Blankets offering provides resource help to people in 80 nations including the United States.

The CHURCH WORLD SERVICES TOOLS AND BLANKETS provide the right tools at the right time, making a difference in the lives of children and families the world over, whether faced with an emergency or struggling to keep food on the table. Gifts to Tools and Blankets can provide blankets, tents and other emergency shelter items in the wake of a disaster. Refugees returning home can be helped with tools to rebuild and seeds to replant fields. Families living in drought-plagued areas are helped to dig wells for clean, safe drinking water, and for water to irrigate crops and gardens.

We will be collecting for Tools and Blankets during the month of January. Please give generously.

Mission Opportunities

2008-12-08T18:05:00.000-08:00

Winter Gear Donations Accepted We have two opportunities to help the needy in Scott and Carver Counties this holiday season. The traditional mitten tree is up the narthex for donations. You will also find a box for gently used and new winter gear (coats, jackets, snowpants, winter boots, etc.). Mitten Tree information may be obtained from Mary Etta Shiner (952.451.6379). Winter gear donation questions should be directed to Annette Nicholas (952.440.2713).

Operation Christmas Child Thank you to the congregation of our church, the Seventh Day Adventist Church and the Shakopee community, 65 shoeboxes were delivered to Operation Christmas Child this year. Thank you!

Christmas Joy Offering The Christmas Joy Offering dates back to the 1930s when the former Presbyterian Church in the United States (PCUS) began an offering to supplement inadequate retirement income and provide supplemental medical insurance for former ministers, missionaries, church workers, and their families.

In the former United Presbyterian Church in the United States of America (UPCUSA), a Christmas offering was first taken in 1960. Called the White Gift, its funds were used for general mission and world relief. The emphasis on global work with children continued until 1973, when the offering was used to assist former servants of the church who were living on inadequate pensions. In 1974 racial ethnic education was added. Funds were distributed evenly between the Board of Pensions and racial ethnic education.

In 1988 the PCUS and the UPCUSA offerings were joined into one offering, the Christmas Offering Joy Gift. 1989 the offering was renamed the Christmas Joy Offering, and in 1991 the 203rd General Assembly changed the distribution of funds to 50 percent to the Board of Pensions and 50 percent to the Presbyterian racial ethnic schools and colleges.

All this to say, please give generously to the Christmas Joy Offering this year. The offering will be received during the month of December.

“Country” Props

2008-12-08T18:04:00.000-08:00

2 Christmas Trees
1 Outdoor Nativity Set
Various Christmas Ornaments
Christmas Lights
Star for Tree Top
Outdoor Winter Lawn “Stuff”

Please see Judy or Merry if you have any of these items we can use for “It All Happened in the Country.” For all props: Please mark item with your name if you would like to have it returned to you after our presentation.
Thanks!!

Letter From Pastor Bev

2008-12-08T18:03:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it? December is upon us. Just look around, at the evidence that the Xmas season is fast approaching ~ decorations of wreaths, trees, garland, lights, ornaments, and fake snow are everywhere! You’ve made your list and checked it twice (or more)!

I’m sure many of you have already taken time to sift through the boxes of decorations that have been stored away for a year. As you inspect each decoration, there may be broken ones which you need to fix. While being very careful, it’s now time to hang each decoration in its special place, as you do not want to forget a thing! Whew! The decorations are complete, now you can focus on the Xmas shopping – fighting the crowds – standing in line – watching the ads – wrapping the gifts, etc. busy, busy, but you want to be prepared! …You are almost done! Oh yes, the baking of Xmas cookies/candy! …Ok, now that the house has an inviting aroma, you can sit back with a cup of hot chocolate or eggnog and relax for everything is now complete. The excitement is rising…you are tired, but full of anticipation. You look around your beautifully decorated home ~ remember the past year and the years before. You fondly think about when your kids and/or grandkids were small, each decoration has a special meaning and it takes you back to that moment. You sigh…The big day is almost here!

I wonder…Of all the decorations, which one is the most important decoration of them all? Would you say the tree? The Christmas tree is important because without it, you wouldn’t have anything to hang your decorations on. Maybe it’s the decorations…the family heirloom perhaps. Is it the garland, wreaths, lights? Whatever it is, you are pleased that your home is beautiful and everything is …complete… then just to be sure…you check your list (again) to make sure you haven’t forgotten a thing! …You haven’t forgotten anything right?!

What about Christ…Have you forgotten Christ? So many times, we lose sight of what this season is all about. We get caught up in the preparation of Xmas that we forget the preparation of CHRISTmas ~ the Christ Child! Christ is the special place to hang the decorations of life and if you are not prepared, you will not know where that place is.

Use this time of anticipation to sift through your life – Prepare your heart, your mind and your soul as you look to Christ to help you fix your broken pieces.
Christ is the food for our soul and the tree of life. Remember to celebrate the love of our Lord Jesus Christ this CHRISTmas for He is the Light of the world!

Have a blessed CHRISTmas,

Pastor Bev
“For unto us a child is born”
…Prepare for a new beginning with much Hope, Peace, Joy and Love.

Outreach Success!!!

2008-12-08T18:02:00.003-08:00

What an exciting time it is for our church. We have our new pastor in place and many new ideas that are starting to take shape on their way to reality. Many of these ideas were part of our Church Revisioning Process that so many of us participated in. Thank you to everyone who took part.

I want to highlight one of the exciting initiatives right now. Almost every one of the groups that worked on the Revisioning discussed the need for community outreach right here in our back yard. There is a great opportunity to bring God’s message to many people within a 5 mile radius of our church.

We have been able to accomplish this goal of the church by allowing a Hispanic Church – The Church of the Seventh Day Adventists to use our facilities for their membership. This group was worshipping at the Shepherd of the Lake Church for the past several years. Due to all of the building expansion, senior housing, and other activities they were being squeezed on their time. They come highly recommended and the church indicated they were great tenants during their time there.

Our church actually fits their needs ideally. We are in a close proximity to many of their members and our schedules mesh well together. They worship on Saturday mornings and evenings and on Tuesday nights. They have been very appreciative and gracious for our hospitality and we are receiving rent for use of our property. As with any new venture, we may have hiccups along the way, but with both parties committed to make this work it truly is a great day for our church.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Pastor Bev or any of the session members. This is truly a great day when we can provide a place for more people to worship God.

Deacons’ Notes

2008-12-08T18:02:00.001-08:00

The Deacons are busy taking cookies to Senior Singles, packing goodie bags for the children, giving rides to those who need rides. The Deacons are also in charge of the nursery. We are always in need of volunteers in the nursery. Contact Scott Theis or Sharon Rognlie in the church office if you can help. If you need help, contact a Deacon, we’ll try to help you.

Carol Balvance
Steve Nicholas
Sheldon Schultz
Bev Friend
Scott Theis
Brenda Norland
Gail Hall
Lyle Crider
Edie Cook

Thank You

2008-12-08T18:01:00.001-08:00

Thank you to everyone who helped by donating money and time to accomplishing the new kitchen floor: Pat Zwart, Ina Lipke, the Deacons, the Pop Can Fund, the Women’s Association, Ron Rognlie, John McGovern, Marty Underwood, Rick Modlin, Gaylen Case, Mike Bush.

Children’s Christmas Joy Art Contest

2008-10-29T17:15:00.001-07:00

Any child younger than 15 as of January 1, 2009, is eligible to submit art to the Christmas Joy Offering art contest.

The art should represent the child’s vision of the Christmas story, be on an 8.5” x 11” sheet of paper and include the name of the child, age and home church on the BACK of the art work. Winners will be selected in three age groups: ages 1-6, 7-10 and 11-14.

The Office of Special Offerings will own the right to use any submitted artwork in their Web, print or other resources. They cannot return submitted art. The winning art and the names of the artist will be featured on the kids4kids and Christmas Joy Offering Web sites and in the 2009 Christmas Joy Offering resources.

Artwork should be submitted to Sharon in the church office no later than January 15, 2009 to be sent to the Office of Special Offerings.

Sympathy

2008-10-29T17:14:00.002-07:00

We extend our sympathy to Jane Rockwell and family. Jane’s daughter Libby Rockwell passed away on October 25, 2008.

Baptism

2008-10-29T17:14:00.001-07:00

On November 2 we welcome Cheyenne Gail Arrell into our fellowship through the Sacrament of Baptism. Please keep Cheyenne in your prayers.

Bible Presentation

2008-10-29T17:12:00.002-07:00

Bibles were presented to First and Second graders and new Sunday School students during the worship service on November 2. Receiving Bibles were Max Geis, James Hanna, Rachel Theis, Jac Campbell and Darin Whitney. Please keep these students in prayer as they begin a new adventure in their spiritual lives.

Operation Christmas Child

2008-10-29T17:12:00.001-07:00

It’s time to get ready to pack a shoebox. We will again be doing the Operation Christmas Child project. This year we will be doing things a little different in that we will only be accepting completed boxes. If you prefer to make a monetary donation to cover postage, all November Mission Giving will be for this worthwhile project. The deadlines for box drop off at FPC are Sunday, November 16 and Wednesday, November 19. Look for more information in your Sunday bulletin.

Mitten Tree

2008-10-29T17:11:00.000-07:00

The weather is turning colder so it must be time to get those knitting needles clicking. During the season of Advent the Mitten Tree will be up in the narthex for donations of mittens, gloves, hats and scarves. Donations are given to the CAP Agency.

Annual Events at FPC

2008-10-04T15:14:00.000-07:00

February
Valentine Plants for Senior Citizens (Women’s Group)

April
Lenten Worship Services (Wednesdays, 2/25/09-4/1/09) Maundy Thursday 4/9/09
Easter: Sticky Buns and Coffee (Worship and Music Commission) Sunday 4/12/09

May
Ice Cream Social (Deacons) May 17, 2009
Summer Youth Mission Trip (Junior and Senior High Youth Group)

September
Rally Day Barbeque (Parish Life) September 7, 2008

November
Thanksgiving Potluck (Worship and Music Commission) November 23, 2008
Holiday treats for senior citizens (Deacons)

December
Children’s Christmas Musical (Prays Kids) December 21, 2008
Christmas Goodie bags for children (Deacons)
Christmas Eve Worship December 24, 2008

THANKSGIVING POTLUCK

2008-10-04T15:08:00.001-07:00

The annual Thanksgiving Potluck Luncheon, sponsored by the Worship and Music Commission, will be held on Sunday, November 23 immediately following the worship service.

Those whose names begin with A – J are asked to bring a salad and those with names beginning with K – Z are asked to bring a hot dish. Beverages, rolls and dessert will be provided.

The commission is looking for 2 adults to help on the day of the potluck by supervising the warming of casseroles during the worship service. If you are willing to help, please contact Jan at 445-4132 or Sharon in the church office.

WEDNESDAY DINNERS

2008-10-04T15:06:00.000-07:00

Wednesday evening dinners began on 10/1. Make sure you plan to join us at 5:50pm for a wonderful time of fellowship and food. We would encourage you to join in on the fun and invite friends and family as well. As our dinners begin, we are in need of volunteers to cook. Please consider signing up for a week as this can be a fulfilling way for you to serve the church.

Not sure what it entails – contact Mike Bush or any previous cooks and we can give you tips.

Don’t feel you can commit with just yourself – find a partner to help and pair up.

Do I have to buy all of the food? – feel free to donate if you wish but you can also send in receipts to Sharon for reimbursement.

Sign up sheets are located in the Narthex just inside the main doors. Sign up once, twice, or as often as you would like. We are always looking for help with clean up.

JR/SR HIGH YOUTH GROUP PROMOTES MISSION WORK WITHIN THE CHURCH

2008-10-04T15:02:00.000-07:00

In an effort to expand their mission work within the walls of FPC, the youth group is rolling out a new program where they will make themselves available to congregants throughout the year for small tasks and projects. These tasks may require only the services of 2 -3 of the youth as opposed to the whole group which will allow us to reach more people through smaller work groups. This mission work will be in addition to our annual mission trip and other group mission activities the group does collectively.

If you have a need or a task at home where you feel the youth could be of assistance, please contact:
Sharon in the church office 445-3562 or shakopeefpc@msn.com

Mike Bush (612) 207-3996 or mbush@integra.net

Wendy Edberg (612) 805-7663 or wledberg@cbburnet.com

Jeri Benson (952) 221-5877 or jerilyn_benson@yahoo.com

The youth leaders will work with the youth based on schedule availability and the type of work requested. Please be aware that these students are very busy so we will need to work with them on the specific tasks and time availability. Please note that this is being provided as mission work, however, all free will donations will be gladly accepted and go to offset youth group mission costs for the year.

In his service,
JR/SR High Youth Group