Stories Issue 3 - January/February 2013 CPC Life

CPC Life is a monthly publication of Christ Presbyterian Church (CPC).

Complimentary copies available monthly at CPC or at cpconline.org/cpclife.

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© Christ Presbyterian Church 2014.

Director of Communications: Sarah Long

Editor: Jennifer Boardman

Art Direction & Design: Jeremy Emmerich

Editorial Assistant: Maggie Keller

TORIES. They make sense of life, they connect us to the world. Christmas is a story of human beings and a mysterious God.

My wife, Laura, writes a fabulous blog (awakemysoulblog.com) and reminded me of the power of story in this season in one of her posts:

Last week we gathered some couples in our home for a casual dinner of chicken chili, ice cream, and homemade choco-late sauce. The house was all decorated for Christmas, and we lit candles and made a fire while it snowed outside. It felt cozy, and we loved connecting with our guests. As we often do, we asked each person to write down a little-known fact or hobby, experience, or accomplish-ment. We folded the papers, put them in a bowl, and drew them out one at a time and tried to guess who wrote each one.

Afterward, here’s a picture I posted on Instagram:

Crazy, right? But we also had a sec-ond person who’d been featured on the cover of a romance novel, and another pictured in the National Enquirer! Did I mention these were all ministry couples at CPC? In the past we’ve had a guest share a literal “foxhole conversion.” Another who sat next to Lady Diana on a plane. One who had been struck by lightning. And another who had the job choosing what colors to light the Empire State Building! We think we are all “or-dinary” people, and each of these were “ordinary” people! It’s just a reminder to me that everyone has a story if we take the time to ask. Christmas is a time to listen to ordinary stories come alive.

The other night Laura and I were at a lovely dinner at a country club—a fundraiser for a Christian evangelistic organization specifically targeting mil-lennials. The people around us were middle-aged and very conservative. Conservative theologically, politically, culturally. They dressed the part.

Except for one: the 23-year-old sitting next to Laura who reeked of smoke and wore her “alternative lifestyle” proudly.

Laura was fascinated; she wanted to know her story. She asked about her tattoo, about her studies in film. She asked what she thought of the speaker and silently prayed for her, listening deeply to what she said. Laura wanted her to feel that her story was valued, that she was heard.

C. S. Lewis says, “There are no ordinary people.” We all have our little stories, part of the larger story God is writing. With time together around our tables — coffee cups in hand— we create safe places where the deeper stories can emerge, stories of pain and hope and redemption. Stories that knit us together in the kingdom of God.

The ordinary people you encounter every day are extraordinarily beloved messes and masterpieces . . . just like us. We just need to ask the right questions, to get to know them. I encourage you to take a moment to begin that journey right here within this issue—to read the stories God is writing in our community here at CPC. Enjoy!

By John and Laura Crosby

extraordinarilybeloved messes

and masterpieces

c. s. lewis says, “there are no ordinary

people.” we all have our little stories, part of the larger story god

is writing.

Special thanks to Rochelle Muellenberg of Rochelle Louise Photography for the photography in this issue // rochellelouise.com.

Special thanks to Rochelle Muellenberg of Rochelle Louise Photography for the photography in this issue // rochellelouise.com.

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y husband, Mike, and I grew up knowing each other’s families, and we began dating while we both attended the U of M. We were married for ten years before we had

our daughter, Becky. Six months later, we found we were expecting our son, Billy!

Billy had a rather rocky start. He was diagnosed with a condition called hemihypertrophy but soon grew into a healthy, big boy. He and Becky were inseparable for the next three years, and we loved our role as parents.

We didn’t know at the time, however, that Billy’s condition caused an increased chance of a tumor that originates in the kidney. By the time we had discovered it, the cancer had metastasized to his lungs. We tried aggressive treat-ments, but Billy died three months after diagnosis at the age of three.

I would be less than honest if I said that because of my re-lationship with Christ, I was able to courageously face the future without my son. But for a long time, I could hardly face getting out of bed in the morning, let alone looking at years down the road without him. Life hurt so much that I just wanted to die and be with him. I was able to cope only because of my daughter’s need for me. But when Becky went to kindergarten the next year, I wasn’t doing well home alone during the day. I would go shopping to get out of the house, but it wasn’t enough. So I called both Becky’s school and CPC and asked if I could volunteer. CPC called first and offered a receptionist position. I’ve been here in different roles ever since!

Grief causes divorce in many marriages of bereaved parents. But Mike and I felt there was no one else in the world who could better understand the depths of our loss than each other. We also felt a strong assurance that one day we would see Billy in Heaven. I can’t imagine bleakly

looking into the future without that hope. I already knew Jesus personally at the time, but

Bible Study Fellowship kept me studying God’s

Word in

manageable bites. I found comfort in the fact that God knew exactly how I felt because He had also lost a Son. I could depend on Him for comfort on even the worst days. In Psalm 34:18 the psalmist writes, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted.” I pray that people living with great grief feel God’s closeness.

Shortly after Billy’s death, Mike went to a Christian retreat and met a man who had also lost a young son at the same time we lost Billy. After the retreat they met for a while to talk, but both got busy with their careers. Fast-forward 30 years: I met a couple at the Ministry Fair who wanted to join CPC. As part of the membership process, we have a special dinner where new members bring a dish from

their heritage. At the party I went to visit Mike at his table, and when he saw me he stood up and said, “Do you remember me telling you about the man I met at the retreat years ago who had also lost a son? Here he is!” The two men embraced and were so happy to be reunited. We are now friends with this couple and meet regularly both inside and outside of CPC.

It’s my belief that you shouldn’t live your life expecting bad news. But one thing I’m thankful for is that I already had a relationship with Christ when we lost Billy. I never felt God was punishing me. Sure, I’ll have to ask Him when I get to Heaven why this happened, but we all have questions. What I do know is that Jesus is the source of strength which I drew upon then as well as depend on now.

“i found comfort in the fact that god knew exactly how

i felt because he had also lost a son. i could

depend on him for comfort on even the

worst days.”

Beth Montgomery serves as CPC’S Membership Coordinator. She has loved working with the new members at CPC. She retires in June after almost 30 years on staff.

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was rambunctious as a kid. Sometimes it was hard to pay attention, and I always wanted to get up and talk in class. Even then, I think I knew I wanted to

lead something, to teach someone. Ash-ley Mulliken led my 3rd grade Sunday school class, and I would pretend to be her assistant. So I was really excited in 7th grade when Kari Dubord [Associate Director of Kids’ Ministries] asked if I would lead 5th grade boys on Sundays. Five years later as a high school junior, I’m still leading 5th graders, now both on Wednesdays and Sundays.

I’ve always had good leaders in my life, especially my dad. He’s worked hard his whole life; he’s someone you want to be. So I wanted to pass on the gift of leadership to younger kids like my dad has for me. A good leader is someone you can look up to as a role model. I like to teach kids because I want to start them off on a good note with their Christian faith; I want to push them in the right direction. Kids can get confused and ask a lot of questions, like, “How’s Jesus walking on water?” If I don’t know an answer, I do some research and get back to them. They appreciate that.

The younger kids look up to me as a high schooler who gives them time. I show up every week to be with them.

I connect with all the kids, because if they play sports, we can talk sports. But if they’re not into sports, I can still relate to them because I have lots of interests. I like to get to know them personally because you can’t hit them with the heavy faith stuff till you have a personal connection.

Before jumping into the lesson, we dis-cuss highs and lows and what’s going on in school. They also like to ask me a lot of questions. They ask about my

high school football team, and they try to get me to talk about girls, but that doesn’t happen. They think that they have a lot of homework, but I tell them, “Just wait till you get older!”

It’s hard to be a Christian in a public high school sometimes. There are a lot of temptations, but I’ve learned to turn the other way. It’s helped being a part of CPC to develop my faith. I know a lot of the staff, and I’m involved in High

School Ministries (HSM). I go to HSM camps, and after I teach my 5th graders on Wednesdays, I go to my House Group. Wednesdays are a busy night.

It’s a highlight to see how these boys grow spiritually throughout the year. At the end of every year, it’s hard to say goodbye because I’ve gotten to know them. I want to go to college nearby so I can continue being a good influence on these kids’ lives.

I definitely feel like God told me to lead kids. I’m adopted, so I feel He blessed me with a better way of life. This is my way of giving back.

“i like to teach kids because i want

to start them off on a good note

with their christian faith.”

KARI DUBORD, Associate Director of Kids’ Ministries


As a young child, Zach lived life to the fullest at all times. He was energetic and outgoing. Kids’ Ministries asked him to lead when he moved into 7th grade because we saw his love for Jesus and kids. But we also saw in him amazing potential to lead when given the opportunity. Zach doesn’t try to be different than who God made him to be. He isn’t going to change to please someone else, and he isn’t ashamed of Jesus. Zach shares his love for Jesus with kids and his peers boldly!

od makes me wait for things for a long time. He makes me wait for everything! It can be so frustrating, because I’m not a patient person—I can be really anxious. It must be part of my sanctification process, teaching me to become a little bit more patient.

After I graduated from college, I really wanted to intern with International Justice Mission (IJM), but I had to wait four months before I knew I got the internship in Zambia. After I returned, I felt God calling me to the business field. I thought I would get a job easily, but I didn’t. I ended up taking a retail job at Anthro-pologie, which was like my wilderness experience. I wondered, “What am I doing? Where am I going?” But God gave me that time to rest, recuperate, and restore. It was literally one year to the day I came home from Zambia that I finally started a full-time job in finance.

Even in a time of waiting, I know God is faithful and He answers prayer. But it’s always a question of how God’s going to answer that prayer! I can’t say that I always feel peace about waiting, but I’m able to acknowledge that I should have peace, and I can feel God’s assurance that it will all work out. Still, I often think, “Is this really going to happen?”

In that sense, I really resonate with Abraham. God promised him children, and after waiting so many years, Abraham questioned God: “This is taking a while—maybe I should take matters into my own hands.” But God’s reply to Abraham—and to me—is, “I have things to teach you. The waiting isn’t just useless.” There is peace and patience to be learned in the waiting.

It’s so easy for me to look for my significance in external sources instead of just from God. I wonder every day, “Am I actually valuable?” But I am worthy because God has decided that I’m worthy; it’s absolutely nothing that I’m doing. The struggle is: Am I going to sit in that truth, or listen to what the world tells me about my significance and value?

The whole story of God is this story of redemption. We each have individual stories of redemption, whether it’s across our whole life span—God created us, we turned away from God, and then God saved us—or on a daily basis. I love that our salvation is not dependent on our actions, because I mess up all the time! I may start the day saying, “God loves me, God created me,” but then I get into traffic and yell at people I shouldn’t be angry at! Even in the daily things, we drift away and then come back, and God is ever faithful in that. God’s love for you, in the way He redeems things, always shows up.


“but god’s reply . . . is, ‘i have things to teach you.

the waiting isn’t just useless.’ there is peace and

patience to be learned.”


volunteering. It’s been this investment into church and study that has really impacted us, slowly growing our faith and our understanding of who Christ is. Ann’s eyes were really opened when she started Bible Study Fellowship; it was in studying God’s Word and learn-ing to talk to Him on a regular basis that her faith really flourished. In fact, she’s been through the cycle of classes three times now, gaining new insights each time. And Charley has connected with a men’s small group that’s been meeting for 15 years now.

We were drawn to CPC almost 20 years ago both for the vitality of the congrega-tion and by John Crosby’s teaching. And it’s a joy to have watched our grand-children take part in special programs here. The one element that has probably added the most to our spiritual growth aside from John’s sermons has been our involvement with the A.C.T.S. communi-ty on Sunday mornings. It’s given us the chance to increase our knowledge of the Bible and to dialogue with others about how knowing Christ impacts our lives. We love getting to know new people, and we love the diversity of ages that attend the class. It’s especially nice that this is something we can do as a couple. A lot of how we’ve engaged in church has been serving in different capacities as individuals, but this is something we share together.

We recently celebrated our 60th wed-ding anniversary, and we both feel truly blessed. The difficulties in life have been faced side-by-side and with the knowledge that the Lord is with us. We want to approach each day intentional-ly, to realize that not a day goes by that you don’t have an opportunity to inter-act with someone with whom you can make a difference. That’s where we’re at, in this “mature” stage of life—liv-ing with the unique awareness of how quickly time passes . . . and possessing a strong desire to not waste a day we’ve been given.

od has blessed us in so many ways! We were off-and-on high school sweethearts, and we married after Charley’s sophomore year at the

University of Minnesota. We didn’t have any money or much of anything—we lived in University Village in a Quonset hut, which were like army barracks. But it didn’t matter to us.

The Korean War had just ended when Charley graduated, and though he was in the Reserves, he was allowed to defer. Charley had an exceptional basketball career in high school and college—he was an All-American, a Big Ten MVP

his senior year. So after graduating, he was drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers.After playing professionally for two years, he then fulfilled his commitment to the ROTC, and though Charley could have returned to the Lakers, they were moving to Los Angeles. We had two kids by that time, and we decided it was more important for us to stay here in Minnesota.

The foundation of our faith was laid when we joined our first church. We’d both grown up in Christian families, but much of it was rote. Now, especially with a growing family, we were seeking to engage—teaching Sunday school,

“it’s been this investment into

church and study that has really

impacted us, slowly growing our

faith and our understanding of

who christ is.”

o see how Christ entered the Tinsley family, you’d have to go back and first see how faith transformed my dad. I was brought

up in a pretty loving family that went to church occasionally, but there was also a family history of alcoholism that pushed my parents apart. So when my dad gave his life to Christ, I have to admit there was some resentment on my part. My response was, “So you’ve made this decision and now every-thing’s okay? What about our issues? Everything is just forgiven?” I didn’t get the concept of grace.

What I found was that there was some-thing missing in my life—a void—that was becoming more and more obvious. I had so much joy from my kids and my wife, but I kept asking, “Why am I so restless?”

Eventually came the day when I was driving in the car, listening to the radio, and the following statement just grabbed me: “It’s not a question of why should you follow Jesus, it’s a question of why not?” And I thought to myself, “Yeah, why not?” So I pulled over into a gas station and prayed and gave my life to Christ right then.

The first person I called after I made my decision was my dad, and he said, “Now we need to get you into a Bible study.” So I called a buddy of mine, and it just so happened that Bible Study Fellowship was going on that very night and they were able to get me in. My dad’s response was, “You didn’t mess around, did you?” I was really, really

hungry, and engaging in a study right away was important.

It was actually my son, Trevor, who brought us here to CPC—he was already involved in the youth programs and attending the Upper Room services on his own. I figured we needed to check it out if our teen son was so en-gaged! We were drawn in by the teach-ing here, and I wanted to get plugged in. I’ve always been interested in kids programs, and I got involved with Elevate. I ended up leading a group of guys in 7th grade and went through Student Ministries with them until they were seniors.

One of the things I’ve struggled with is my desire to control things, to believe I can do everything all on my own. I’ve been in the restaurant business for 30-some years. In 2008 I became the sole owner of two restaurants, and within a month the country was in the midst of this huge economic downturn. The next year I was doing cash flow on a daily basis, and by 2010 I was in a really bad place. I’d started arbitration, so in the midst of this bad economy, I had legal bills. I was just totally fearful of what would happen.

I went on a Demontreville retreat, which is a silent retreat for men. Four

o see how Christ entered the Tinsley family, you’d have to go back and first see how faith transformed my dad. I was brought

up in a pretty loving family that went to church occasionally, but there was also a family history of alcoholism that pushed my parents apart. So when my dad gave his life to Christ, I have to admit there was some resentment on my part. My response was, “So you’ve made this decision and now every-thing’s okay? What about our issues? Everything is just forgiven?” I didn’t get the concept of grace.

What I found was that there was some-thing missing in my life—a void—that was becoming more and more obvious. I had so much joy from my kids and my wife, but I kept asking, “Why am I so restless?”

Eventually came the day when I was driving in the car, listening to the radio, and the following statement just grabbed me: “It’s not a question of why should you follow Jesus, it’s a question of why not?” And I thought to myself, “Yeah, why not?” So I pulled over into a gas station and prayed and gave my life to Christ right then.

The first person I called after I made my decision was my dad, and he said, “Now we need to get you into a Bible study.” So I called a buddy of mine, and it just so happened that Bible Study Fel-lowship was going on that very night, and they were able to get me in. My dad’s response was, “You didn’t mess around, did you?” I was really, really

hungry, and engaging in a study right away was important.

It was actually my son, Trevor, who brought us here to CPC—he was already involved in the youth programs and attending the Upper Room services on his own. I figured we needed to check it out if our teen son was so en-gaged! We were drawn in by the teach-ing here, and I wanted to get plugged in. I’ve always been interested in kids’ programs, and I got involved with Elevate. I ended up leading a group of guys in 7th grade and went through Student Ministries with them until they were seniors.

One of the things I’ve struggled with is my desire to control things, to believe I can do everything all on my own. I’ve been in the restaurant business for 30-some years. In 2008 I became the sole owner of two restaurants, and within a month the country was in the midst of this huge economic downturn. The next year I was doing cash flow on a daily basis, and by 2010 I was in a really bad place. I’d started arbitration, so in the midst of this bad economy, I had legal bills. I was just totally fearful of what would happen.

I went on a Demontreville retreat, which is a silent retreat for men. Four

days are spent in contemplation, but I was having a hard time being present because my mind was filled with all my burdens and fears. But then God absolutely revealed to me that the restaurants weren’t mine—I was simply supposed to take care of them. I can’t believe how freeing that was for me.

After my revelation about being a steward of what God has given me, I was introduced to a fellow CPCer and spiritual mentor named Tim Geoffrion. He reached out to me and said, “I think we should get together.” He spent a good year giving me the tools—spiritual exercises and prayer mechanisms—to help me understand that fear, shame, and anxiety are not from the Lord.

As I live out my realization that the restaurants aren’t mine, I’m trying to figure out exactly what that means. Part of that is keeping them running and viable, but I also believe we should use them to support the church and opportunities for ministry. I’ve started a consulting company called Break Bread Hospitality. I chose the name because breaking bread is a multicultural, multi-religious concept. Sharing a meal is meant to be peaceful and inclusive. But for me, it has its own tie to Chris-tian Communion.

I’m still learning to not go at life on my own—to ask God for help and guidance first. To reach out in prayer instead of bearing the worries and stresses of life. And what I’ve discov-ered is that in letting go and giving things to God, He finds ways to use my strengths for His glory.

“i’m still learning to not go at life on my own—to ask god

for help and guidance first.”



ny parent will encounter challenges with their children. My husband, Roger, is of Norwegian descent, and I’m 100 percent Taiwanese. We never imagined that our alignment of genes would be problematic, but we’ve discovered from research findings at the U that the children of biracial

couples have the highest incidence of autoimmune diseases here in Minnesota. And we’ve seen it play out uniquely in all of our children.

Just before my youngest child, Charlie, turned four, we were shocked to discover that he is diabetic. Like any parents, we were initially overwhelmed as we absorbed everything we needed to learn and mourned how his life would be different than we anticipated. But soon we were able to view the scenario in a new light: We’re intel-ligent, we thankfully had the finances to cover his medication, we had health insur-ance—there was no reason this child wouldn’t be healthy under our care. Then just after that diagnosis, we found out he also has Celiac’s, an autoimmune disease. More tears followed, but we soon found a silver lining: Being gluten-free is a healthier way for him to eat as a diabetic. All along we’ve told him: “Sweetie, we don’t know why, but God made your body this way. And while we don’t have the answers, He does.” And that’s Charlie’s mentality: “This is just the way God made my body.”

When my middle daughter, Hannah, was seven I noticed she had a bald spot on the top of her head. When we went to the doctor, she confirmed she has alopecia. At the same time, she checked her lymph nodes, did a blood test, and we found out she also has hypothyroidism. They are both autoimmune diseases, and we aren’t able to predict how the alopecia will manifest itself. You can lose all of your hair, part of your hair, your hair can grow back or never grow back . . . we just have no idea. Hannah is ten now and pretty much bald. Our prayer has always been: “Just give her strength and pro-tect her heart. As she gets teased, make her understand that it’s because people aren’t used to seeing her that way. It’s not her.”

Our oldest daughter, Emma, also has hypothyroidism. So both my girls will be on medication for life. But Emma’s struggles have been more inward, since she’s struggled with extreme anxiety from a young age. And since I have a sister who is bipolar, I was able to recognize red flags and intervene as an advocate for her, pursuing years of therapy and medication. And now she has blossomed into this beautiful 12-year-old in middle school. As she heads into the hardest years of her life, I pray all the time for wisdom and strength. And when I cry, it’s because He

is so faithful. I can’t believe how blessed we are.

Roger and I are no longer anxious; our children’s medical issues do not keep us up at night. What we’ve experienced is

that if you trust in God—know that He has a plan—you will find peace regardless of the situation you are dealing with.

Because we ask Him for help, He answers us.

When Hannah was at VBS one year, she made a pillowcase with the words God Comforts Me right in the middle of it. She uses that

pillow every night when she lays down her little head. Roger and I go in and read that and kiss her and say, “Yes, He does!” She’s already learning that beauty is beyond what we look like. And we’re not trying to be Pollyanna here—we know she’s going to struggle with this. But she told me, “You know, Mom, I’m not going to cry about it. It’s the way God made me. If my hair doesn’t grow back, it doesn’t grow back. If it does, it does.” In my heart I truly believe He has a plan for her, that this will shape her in unique ways.

“what we’ve experienced is that if you trust in god—know that he has a plan—

you will find peace.”

CPC Ministry ProgrammingJanuary / February 2014At 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.

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general

CPC PHOTO DIreCTOrY SHOOTSaturdays, January 11 & 25; Sundays, January 12 & 26Be part of CPC’s new Photo Directory! Have your photo taken before, during, and after services; no time-slots required.

MID-MOnTH CHaPel SerVICeWednesdays, January 15 & February 19 at 12:00PMA traditional service with a short message, hymns, Communion, and prayers. Lunch follows.

UnDerSTanDIng THe ISraelI/PaleSTInIan COnFlICTThursdays, January 16 and February 20 from 7:00-9:00PM in the Fireside Room; meets 3rd Thursday of the month through MayOn January 16, we view and discuss the award-winning documentary “One Day After Peace.” On February 20, guest speaker is Curtiss DeYoung, Chair of the Department of Reconcil-iation at Bethel University. Contact: Debbie Ducar at x226; [email protected].

DaTe nIgHT WITH THe PHenOWSSaturday, February 8 from 7:30-9:00PM in the Fellowship HallStart with dinner out as a couple, then enjoy dessert and a special program. Cost: $8/couple. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Mary Allen at x243; [email protected].

CHOIrS FOr all ageSChoirs and handbell groups resume in January. New members are welcome to become a part of one of our worship

ensembles. Contact: Heather Hood at x204; [email protected].

eDIna CHUrCH CHOIr FeSTIValSaturday, February 22 at 2:00PM at Colonial ChurchThe CPC Chancel Choir joins other Edina church choirs in a worship ser-vice featuring special music under the direction of Dr. Gene Peterson (Univer-sity of Tennessee). Free; all welcome!

ParenTal gUIDanCe neCeSSarYWednesdays in January from 6:15-7:30PM in Room 204 CPC is committed to providing the best tools to help parents with raising Christian kids in a secular world.

January 8: Joe Cavanaugh from Youth Frontiers on “Old-Fashioned Character in a Modern World”

January 15: Steve Wiens from Church of the Open Door on “Grace-Based Parenting”

January 22: Becky Walker from Tree House on “From Raising Our Own Kids to Influencing a New Generation”

January 29: Dr. Tim Johansson, be-havioral pediatrician, on “Technology: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly”

eSSenTIalS 101: gOD’S STOrYBeginning Wednesday, January 15 from 6:00-7:30PM in a nearby homeGet the big picture of God’s story from Genesis to Revelation, and learn how you fit into His amazing plan. Dave and Laura Scherf lead this ten-week class. Cost: $10. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Debbie Ducar at x226; [email protected].

CPC BOOK grOUP Thursdays, January 16 & February 20 at 7:00PM in the Parlor; meets 3rd ThursdaysJanuary: Moloka’i by Alan Brenner-turder. February: Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger. Contact: Nancy Reutiman at 952.920.1837.

lIFe KeYS: DISCOVer WHO YOU areWednesday, January 22 from 8:30AM-4:00PM LifeKeys can help you find your place to work, serve, and find joy. Co-author Dave Stark teaches. Cost: $99. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Debbie Ducar at x226; [email protected].

FInanCIal PeaCe UnIVerSITY Tuesdays, February 11-April 15 from 6:30-8:30PM in the Fireside RoomDave Ramsey’s series offers practical, bib-lical resources for financial management. Cost: $100/household. Register: cpcon-line.org/register. Contact: Dan Anderson at x298; [email protected].

neW MeMBerS’ ClaSSeSBeginning Sunday, February 23Meet pastors and learn what it means to be part of the Body of Christ. There is no obligation to join after the class, but we hope you do! Registration before the first class required. Register: Beth Mont-gomery at x214; [email protected].

SUnDaY COMMUnITIeS Sundays at 9:30AM and 10:45AMBelong and grow with people in a similar life stage. This winter, we study God’s interactions with His people in the Old Testament. Visit cpconline.org/SC. Contact: Dan Anderson at x298; [email protected].

MIXED TAPES (20s & 30s)Meets at 9:30AM in Fellowship Hall-W

952.920.8515 | cpconline.org

aDUlTS


M I N I S T R Y P R O G R A M M I N G | 2 0 1 4 S T O R I E S I S S U E

register. Contact: Ann Schofield at [email protected].

MOM’S MOrnIngLarge Group Wednesdays, January 8 & 22, February 12 & 26 from 9:30-11:30AM in the Fire-side Room; meets 2nd & 4th Wednesdays January 8: Steve Wiens on “Replac-ing Perfectionism with Courage”January 22: Cindy Engelkes on “My Child’s View of the World”February 12: Patrick Lair on “Treasure Your Laughter, Keep Your Perspective”February 26: Spring Fellowship DayCDs in Pathway for $3. Register: cpcon-line.org/momsmorning. Contact: Megan Bireley at [email protected]. Small GroupsDaytime groups meet 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wednesdays from 9:30-11:30AM; Evening groups meet 1st Tuesdays or 2nd Thursdays from 6:45-8:45PMSmall groups connect moms through Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and Christ-centered support. Contact: Sta-cia Fetters at [email protected].

neeDleWOrK gUIlDSaturdays, January 11 & February 8 from 10:00AM-2:00PM in the Fellow-ship 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.

MOMS OF TeenSLarge GroupThursdays, January 16 & February 20 from 9:15-11:30AM in the Fellowship Hall In January, a panel of local youth pas-tors share their personal faith journeys and insights on our teens. In February, Becky Patton discusses God’s design and intention for sexuality. Cost: $5/session. Contact: Ann Satterthwaite at [email protected] GroupsDaytime groups meet 2nd & 4th Thursdays from 9:30-11:00AM; evening group meets 1st & 3rd Mondays from 7:00-8:30PM Small groups provide in-depth sup-port, study, and discussion of Christian teen parenting books. Contact: Cheryl LaMone at 612.275.3436; [email protected].

CIrCleSCircles combine fellowship, learning, and service in a small group setting.

S.A.L.T. (mostly 40s & 50s)Meets at 9:30AM in Fellowship Hall-E A.C.T.S. (mostly 50s & 60s)Meets at 9:30AM in Fellowship Hall-C MORE (mostly retired folks)Meets at 10:45AM in Room 107 CREDO (intergenerational)Meets at 10:45AM in Room 108

In THe WOrDMondays from 9:30-11:30AM in Room 107A discussion-oriented Bible study on the Acts of the Apostles for men and women. Childcare available ($50/semester). Contact: James Madsen at x308; [email protected].

CaTalYST Sundays at 9:30AM in Room 109Connect with newly married (or soon-to-be!) couples for food, study, and discussion, plus socials and service. Contact: Jessica Schelitzche at [email protected].

Men’S BreaKFaSTSaturday, February 1 from 7:00-9:00AM in the Fellowship HallJoin other CPC men for breakfast, fellowship, and to hear Ed Stych from The Voice of the Martyrs speak on the global persecution of Christians. Cost: $10 in advance, $12 at the door. Ad-vance registration closes at 12:00PM on Thursday, January 30. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Deb Carlson at x316; [email protected].

PICK-UP BaSKeTBall Mondays from 8:30-10:00PM in the Multi-Purpose RoomOpen to all adults. Contact: Jon Good at [email protected].

WOMen In THe WOrDBeginning Monday, January 6 from 9:30-11:45AM in the Fireside RoomOur winter study includes Beth Moore’s Sacred Secrets followed by Priscilla Shirer’s study on Gideon. The format includes a large group DVD lecture, small group discussion, and fellowship. Cost: $15/study; $25/both studies. Childcare available ($50/semester.) Register: cpconline.org/


WOMen

They consist primarily of women over 50; new members always welcome.Martha CircleWednesday, January 15 & February 19 at 10:00AM in the Parlor; meets 3rd WednesdaysMary Allen, Ministry Assistant in Con-gregational Care, is our guest in January. Contact: Pat Haberkorn at 952.941.4188.Lydia CircleSaturdays, January 18 & February 15 at 9:30AM in the Parlor; meets 3rd SaturdaysMary Allen, Ministry Assistant in Con-gregational Care, is our guest in January. Contact: Ellen Hastings at 952.896.0066.Esther CircleSaturday, January 18 at 10:00AM at the home of Norma Jean Barr; Saturday, February 15 at 10:00AM at the home of Annette Horton; meets 3rd SaturdaysEsther Circle studies spiritual gifts this year. Contact: Norma Jean at 952.831.2642.Ruth CircleMeets every Wednesday at 9:30AMOn the first and third Wednesdays, we meet in a home for food, fellow-ship, devotions, and prayers. On the other Wednesdays, we serve at CPC and beyond. Contact: Barb Bucha at 952.470.4414.

WOMen WHO InSPIre Friday, February 28 from 7:00-9:00PM in the Great Room “Women Who Inspire: Stories that Lead to Spirit-Filled Work!” Megan Tamte, CEO and Founder of Hot Mama, shares her story of starting and running her businesses. And certified Fearless Living Coach Deirdre Van Nest teaches how to “Fire Your Fear.” Music, dessert, and fellowship. All women are welcome. Register: cpconline.org/register. Cost: $10. Contact: Debbie Manning at x257; [email protected].

Unless otherwise noted, please register at cpconline.org/register.

MIXeD aDUlT grOUPSGospel Growth Small GroupTuesdays beginning January 7 from 6:45-8:00PM in Room 108This small group, led by Rob and Sal-ly Lund, focuses on the role of faith in our transformation by the power of the Gospel.


Men

SMall grOUPS

M I N I S T R Y P R O G R A M M I N G | 2 0 1 4 S T O R I E S I S S U E

Men’S grOUPS MEN’S TUESDAY EVENINGTuesdays from 7:00-8:00PM in Room 201Register for this new men’s group that recently started meeting.

MEN’S THURSDAY MORNING Thursdays from 7:00-8:00AM in Room 108Deepen your faith as we study Gospel Love in this group led by James Mad-sen. Contact: James Madsen at x308; [email protected].

MEN’S THURSDAY MORNING Thursdays from 7:00-8:00AM in Room 201This group, led by Matt Faulkner, stud-ies Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis.

WOMen’S grOUPSTUESDAY WOMEN’S GROUPTuesdays, January 14-March 25 from 6:45-8:45PM in Room 10; meets 2nd and 4th TuesdaysDiscover God’s beauty, love, and heart in Beth Moore’s The Law of Love: Lessons from the Pages of Deuterono-my. Cost: $20. Register: Jane Pooler at [email protected].

COUPleSCOUPLES’ SMALL GROUPS30s-40s: meet Thursdays, January 9 & February 13 at 7:00PM40s-50s: meet Mondays, January 13 & February 10 at 7:00PMOur groups are based on age and life stages and generally meet one evening a month in homes.

neSTerS: CPC’S aCTIVe reTIreMenT- age COMMUnITYSaturday, January 25 from 6:30-8:30PM in the Fireside RoomEnjoy an evening of bunko and pie! No charge. Register: Mary Allen at x243; [email protected].

eDYnaMOeS Wednesdays, January 29 & February 26 at 11:30AM in the Fellowship Hall. Cost: $5. Register: Judy Romine at 952.929.4983. January: You are cordially invited to attend the first luncheon of 2014 provided by Chef/Pastor Rich and staff. Our resident actress and pastor, Deb Kielsmeier, shares her portrayal of “The Woman at the Well and Her Encounter with Jesus.”

February: “There Goes My Heart, a presentation by Sister Productions of their love for Minnesota, Scandinavian heritage, and the church . . . music, poetry, and theatre.

aBUDanTlY SaTISFIeD: WeIgHT Care grOUPSundays, January 5 & 19, February 2 & 16 from 9:30-10:30AM 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. Contact: Sandy Radeke at 952.452.1205; [email protected].

alZHeIMer’S eDUCaTIOn SerIeSThursdays, January 9 & February 13 from 6:30-8:00PM in the Fireside Room; meets 2nd ThursdaysA series for care partners and those with Alzheimer’s and related demen-tias. In January, Debbie Richman from the Alzheimer’s Association speaks on “Living with Alzheimer’s: Middle Stage.” In February, she speaks on “Living with Alzheimer’s: Late Stage.” Contact: Mary Allen at x243; [email protected].

PraYer SHaWl MInISTrYFridays, January 10 & February 14 from 10:00AM-12:00PM in the Parlor; Thurs-days, January 23 & February 27 from 7:00-8:30PM in Room 203We need knitters! We knit shawls with the hope of being vessels for God’s pres-ence and comfort. Contact: Pat Johnson at 952.947.0734.

grIeF reCOVerY Tuesdays, January 14 & February 11 from 6:00-8:30PM in the Parlor; meets 2nd Tuesday monthlyGrief Recovery is for those who have lost a loved one. We experience God’s hope and healing through fellowship, prayer, and sharing a meal. CPC Pastor Rich Phenow is the featured speaker in January. Contact: Debbie Manning at x275; [email protected].

BegInnIng agaIn: lIFe FOllOWIng THe DeaTH OF a SPOUSeSaturdays, January 18 & February 15 at 9:00AM in the Fireside RoomCPC’s support, resource, and


friendship community for those deal-ing with practical issues following the death of a spouse. Register: Mary Allen at x243; [email protected].

graCe & HOPe FOr OUr CHIlDrenTuesdays, January 28 (in the Fireside Room) & Feburary 25 (in the Parlor) from 7:00-8:30PM; meets 4th TuesdaysDoes your child experience emotional or mental health issues? Join other par-ents as we care for one another on our journeys. January guest speaker is psy-chiatrist Dr. Henry Emmons. February’s meeting is for fellowship and support. Contact: Doug Brown at 612.839.9992; [email protected].

HelPIng HanDS MInISTrYAre you interested in helping CPCers in times of need by providing a meal or a ride to the doctor office? Sign up for the Helping Hands Lay Care Ministry. No obligation; respond as you are able. Contact: Mary Allen at x243; [email protected].

FaMIlIeS MOVIng FOrWarDSunday, December 29-Sunday, January 5Give time to homeless families at CPC. We need volunteers for set up and take down, meal prep and serving, hosting, and laundry. Volunteer or donate: cpcon-line.org/register. Contact: Liza Schwab at 651.485.7575; [email protected].

UrBan HOMeWOrKS WOrKDaYSSaturdays, January 11 & February 8 from 8:30AM-3:00PMWork alongside other CPCers 16 and over to rehab a home in North Min-neapolis. Work includes a variety of chores; all skill levels welcome. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant to get to know each other better. Register: cp-conline.org/register. Contact: Annalise Butler at 612.599.1867; [email protected].

reV. Dr. MarTIn lUTHer KIng, Jr. reFleCTIVe SerVICe Monday, January 20 at 6:30PM at Calvary Church (2608 Blaisdell Ave. S., Minneapolis 55408)Featuring a variety of musical artists, reflective opportunities, and keynote speaker, Rev. Dr. Jin S. Kim from the Church of All Nations.


Care

MISSIOnS

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M I N I S T R Y P R O G R A M M I N G | 2 0 1 4 S T O R I E S I S S U E 952.920.8515 | cpconline.org

rUCKUS: TreMenDOUS TUBIng Friday, January 31 from 5:30-8:30PMRuckus is our fun-filled monthly out-ing. This month we are tubing at Buck Hill. Transportation provided. Cost: $12. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Van Chounlamountry at x306; [email protected].

aValanCHe SKI/SnOWBOarD reTreaTSaturday-Monday, February 15-17 at Spirit Mountain in Duluth (leave Saturday at 8:00AM, return Monday at 11:30AM)Avalanche is a fun-filled weekend of skiing and snowboarding! Mid-dle-schoolers, come by yourself or bring your parents for an unforgettable weekend! Cost: $200. Register starting January 6: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Lee Hanssen at x267; [email protected].

HIGH SCHOOL

HOUSe grOUPSWednesdays, January 8-22 & February 5-26 from 8:00-9:15PM (no House Groups January 1)If your student would like to plug into a core group, contact Trevor Tinsley at x304 or [email protected].

large grOUPWednesday, January 29 from 8:00-9:15 at CPC (replacing House Groups)Join all high schoolers (9-12th grades) for the first HSM large group of the New Year.

HSM SPrIng BreaK gO! TrIP TO JaMaICa March 29-April 5: Catadupa, Jamaica with World Servants We’ll partner with a church to dig holes to provide toilets/outhouses for families who are very poor and/or elderly. We’ll also engage in community outreach and fun. Cost: $820 per person plus airfare (~$700). Register by January 17: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Lee Hanssen at x267; [email protected].

OaSIS: COllege reTreaTThursday-Saturday, January 2-4 at Grand View Lodge Oasis is the perfect way for college-age students to reconnect with each other and God. Enjoy games, broomball,

CalVarY DrOP-In Meal PrOgraMSundays, January 26 & February 23 from 1:30-4:00PM at Calvary Baptist (2608 Blaisdell Ave. S., Minneapolis 55408); 4th Sundays, October-AprilCalvary Church welcomes those in need to enjoy a warm meal. Volunteer shoppers purchase groceries prior to the meal and eight to ten volunteers pre-pare and serve the meal. Contact: Mike Hotz at x210; [email protected].

YOU are InVITeD TO gO!Saturday-Sunday, February 1/2 sur-rounding all services in the Great RoomJoin Missions for “GO: A Time to Ex-plore Your Passion to Serve.” Learn new ways to get involved both locally and internationally! Contact: Eli Mansfield at x311; [email protected].

CalVarY TUTOrIng PrOgraMWednesdays from 5:00-5:45 followed by dinner at Calvary Baptist (2608 Blais-dell Ave. S., Minneapolis 55408)Calvary Baptist and CPC are launch-ing a tutoring ministry for kids K-5 to receive homework help, tutoring, and an evening meal with spiritual programming. Contact: Sarah Sutliff at 952.303.4606; [email protected].

MIDDle eaST gO! TrIPMarch 3-15: Israel/Palestine with Telos and Christ at the Checkpoint ConferenceThe first part of our trip is designed to help better understand the issues of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Next we attend the Christ at the Checkpoint conference, where Christians are chal-lenged to help resolve the conflicts by engaging with the teachings of Jesus. Cost: $2,550 per person, plus airfare (~$1,500-$1,800). Contact: Leslie Boie at x274; [email protected].

WeDneSDaY nIgHT PrOgraMSWednesdays in January and February (excluding January 1) Wednesday programs for K-5th graders are a place to learn about God and live out faith through music, friendship, reading the Bible, and connection to leaders. Register: cpconline.org/regis-ter. Contact: Sara Lightbody at x203; [email protected].

WeeKenD PrOgraMSSaturday 5:15PM & Sunday 9:30AM,

11:00AM, & 6:00PM servicesDuring weekend services, we minis-ter to children (6 weeks through 6th grade) and families by engaging kids in their relationship with Jesus. Regis-ter: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Jill Campbell at x216; [email protected].

FaM JaM FOr PreSCHOOlerSSaturday, February 8 from 9:00-10:45AM in the Multi-Purpose RoomJoin us for a morning of crafts, cookie decorating, face painting, and air jump-ing. Sign up by emailing Martha North at [email protected] with your name and how many plan to attend.

TaPeSTrYTuesdays, January 14 at 6:30PM in Room 116; January 28 at 6:30PM in Room 204; February 11 at 6:30 offsite; February 25 at 6:30PM in Room 116A ministry for kids and students with special needs. Contact: Van Choun-lamountry x306; [email protected].

MOSaIC WOrSHIP SerVICe (TaPeSTrY)Sundays, January 26 & February 23 at 10:45AM in the Chapel; Sundays monthlyMosaic is a worship service for kids and students with special needs and their families. Noises, sounds, and movements are welcome!

MIDDLE SCHOOL

eleVaTe anD COMMITMenT ClaSSWednesdays, January 8-29, February 5-26 from 6:15-7:30PM (no programs January 1)A night of large-group learning and small-group discussion for 6th-8th graders. If your student isn’t registered, visit cpconline.org/register. Contact for Elevate (6th-7th grades): Van Choun-lamountry at x306; [email protected]. Contact for CC (8th grade): Carrie Gleeson at x258; [email protected].

COMMITMenT ClaSS WOrSHIP eXPerIenCeSunday morning, January 26 (various times and locations)Commitment Class students and families visit area churches with others in their small group and then have lunch togeth-er. More information to be sent after the first of the year. Contact: Carrie Gleeson x258; [email protected].


KIDS

STUDenTS

COllege

bonfires, swimming, praying, and experi-encing a break from the ordinary and not so ordinary in our lives. Cost: $90. Regis-ter: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Lee Hanssen at x267; [email protected].

lIVIng In THe TenSIOnSundays, January 19 & February 16 at 7:00PM in the Fireside RoomLiving in the Tension is a safe space intended to build bridges between the Church and the LGBT community. We’ll watch part of the documentary “For the Bible Tells Me So” followed by discussion. Contact: Debbie Manning at x275; [email protected].

THeOlOgY On TaP: aDDIe ZIerManSundays, January 26 & February TBD from 7:30-9:00PM In January, Addie Zierman, author of When We Were on Fire, leads us in a discussion about deconstructing the faith we grew up with and rebuilding it into a faith we can hold today.

TaBle reTreaTSaturday-Sunday, February 22-23 at Riverwood Inn and Conference Center in Otsego, MNThe theme for this retreat is “Connections.” Register: thetableatcpc.org/retreat. Contact: Patti Kratzer at 231; [email protected].

FaMIlY FeST WInTer WeeKenDJanuary 17-20 & February 14-17Join Family Fest, CPC’s friend in minis-try, at Winter Weekend, a multi-gener-ational getaway at Grand View Lodge. Enjoy speakers, winter sports, bonfires, plus great accommodations and food. Visit: familyfestministries.org. Contact: Pete Larson at 952.881.0939; [email protected].


FrIenDS In MInISTrY

THe TaBle

FamilyIn Our

COngraTUlaTIOnS TO:Rich and Jennifer Larson on the birth of their son, Brady Dale, on December 9. Big brother is Jonah. Rich serves as CPC’s Primary Contemporary Worship Leader.

SYMPaTHY TO:Judy Kelloway and family on the pass-ing of Judy’s father, Burt Shepard, on November 2.

Sandy Day and family on the passing of Sandy’s husband, Eugene Day, on November 26.

Doug and Linda Harmon on the pass-ing of Doug’s mother, Sara Harmon, on November 30.

Jeanine and Andy Radatz on the passing of Jeanine’s mother, Glorian Sorensen, on December 3.

Peggy Sorum and family on the passing of Peggy’s mother, Barb Sorum, on December 7.

Joanne Larson and children, Craig (Barb) Larson and Jennifer (Andrew) Block, on the passing of Joanne’s husband, Gerald Larson, on December 10.

In THe HOSPITal 11/20-12/16Deb Castle - Abbott Nick Bergeland - RegionsJack Keller - Children’s MinneapolisNeil Olsen - Fairview SouthdaleBonnie Scaife - Fairview Southdale

FInanCIal UPDaTeJUne 1, 2013-nOVeMBer 30, 2013Ministry Offering Budget: $2,106,211.18

Actual Offering: $1,930,495.42

Variance: ($175,715.76)

Mission Partner of November (Thanksgiving Harvest): $33,944.45

Mission Partner of November (Barnabas Fund): $9,849.79

YTD Mission of the Month Total: $80,717.24

Expenses are under budget year-to-date.


“And let the loveliness of our Lord, our God, rest on us, confirming the work that we do.

Oh, yes. Affirm the work that we do!”- Psalm 90:17

todayschristianwoman.comEncouraging and challenging articles on

faith, marriage, parenting, culture, health, work, and more.

of the MInD

“Where your talents and the needs of the world cross;

there lies your vocation.” - aristotle

Books, music, quotes, apps, art, videos, websites, people, places, and things that get us to think about God in new and

exciting ways.

love and respect in the FamilyBy Dr. Emerson EggerichsDr. Eggerichs’s marriage book Love and Respect was a bestseller in Christian circles. Now he moves on to teach how to foster love and respect in families. Children need love, and parents need respect! Copies available in Pathway Books.

Read compelling faith stories from a reluctant-to-believe journalist (Kirsten Powers), a former Mormon, a man who forgives his mother’s killer, and more. Powerful and easy to pass on to others!

christianitytoday.com/ct/departments/testimony


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Adopt-A-Family3: CPC now serves CityKid Java!4: Tutoring at Calvary Baptist5: Women’s Christmas Brunch6: Kids’ Choir

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Stories Issue 3 - January/February 2013 CPC Life

Documents

Transcript of Stories Issue 3 - January/February 2013 CPC Life