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CPC LIFE

DECEMBER 2014

COME AND SEE . . . THEN GO AND TELL

“

ome and see, Daddy! Come look, Mommy!” Every parent on planet Earth has heard that demanding cry, the longing of a child for a loving witness. See their fort. Admire their painting. Applaud their dance. Somehow kids feel happier, more secure, more alive when love is in the room, “in the flesh.” This is the premise of Advent, as well: that we all might “come and see.” Like kids sneaking peeks at presents under the tree, Advent personifies the difficulty of waiting. Even as adults we wait—for hope to turn into something more concrete, for a sign that no matter how bad things are right now, or how busy or scary or painful or whatever . . . that something more awaits. Is there a way to recapture the fervency of a child tugging at your hand this Advent? Could you hear the Christmas story with the anticipation of a sevenyear-old who tenses up when hearing about wicked King Herod’s plot? With the confusion of a five-year-old who hears an angel say that the baby will save us all? With the innocence of a four-year-old who asks Dad why Joseph

CPC Life is a monthly publication of Christ Presbyterian Church (CPC). Complimentary copies available monthly at CPC or at cpconline.org/cpclife. Mail Subscriptions: Suggested annual donation of $20. Please write Editor, CPC Life, Christ Presbyterian Church, 6901 Normandale Road, Edina, MN 55435. 2 DECEMBER 2014 | CPC LIFE

is upset with Mary about the unexpected baby? (Answer: Go ask your mother.) My Young Life friends used to say that it’s a sin to bore a kid with the Gospel. So how do we make it come to life for ourselves, so that excitement and wonder spill over in the telling? My hope is that this Advent we can use the weeks of waiting to retell the story, to bring the twinge of childhood longing back to every heart. This is the sacred rhythm of the Church: Come and see, and then go and tell. My prayer is that you’ll see afresh this year, so you’ll have something to “go and tell” in the new year. What a great time to invite a friend to hear the story of hope and love and love unquenchable!

John Crosby serves as Senior Pastor. Though he might prefer to dive into a new stash of books, he loves how each member of his family gets one hour on Christmas Day to celebrate as they desire, with everyone jumping in joyfully.

See the first Christmas brought to life! Stable Characters Animals Experience by car or foot; hot chocolate served. Friday/Saturday, December 19/20 from 6:00-8:00PM; Sunday, December 21 from 10:30AM-1:00PM

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

Director of Communications: Sarah Long

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

Art Direction & Design: Matt Schubbe

Editor: Jennifer Boardman

Editorial Assistants: Maggie Keller, Claire Sweem

SEEING CHRISTMAS, As If for the First Time

hen you grow up in a family that celebrates Christmas in a country where Christmas is a national holiday, it’s hard to remember life before Christmas. Most of us probably even share similar memories: A Charlie Brown Christmas on TV; the late snow-crunching drive home from your relatives’ house on Christmas Eve; the dull ache around dusk on Christmas Day when kids finally acknowledge that we have to wait a whole year to do it all over again.

we were to hear the story with all its twists and turns and grasp it for the magnificent mystery that it is? I was thinking through the Gospel accounts and wrote down all the places I would normally take pause if it weren’t for over-familiarity. A virgin gives birth to a boy. Angels make pronouncements in the night. Rich men follow the baby’s star to His manger. An evil king sets out to murder the baby. The baby is born with great expectation as Savior of His people.

But what about the actual Christmas story, the one Linus describes when he reads from the Gospel of Luke? Even someone like me—who didn’t really “get” Christianity till my early twenties —knew the story of Jesus’ birth. I remember the little wooden crèche my grandma brought back from Europe as a gift. I would place the baby Jesus in His manger, arranging first the people and then the animals around Him just so. I knew then that— although Jesus was just a baby— Christmas was His story.

“Those familiar with Jesus’ birth story have to work to see the wonder in it year after year.”

With such an abundance of memories, what would it be like if we could “see” Christmas, as if for the first time? If

The other day I was reading The Jesus Storybook Bible with my just-turned two-year-old, and she said, “See God?” I thought to myself, Oh, hon, you can’t see God. Someday, though. And it’s true; my daughter can’t literally see God. But she can—and so can you and I—know Him even more intimately through His Son. This baby born of a virgin behind a country inn became a man. He walked the earth, teaching, loving, forgiving. And every year in December, we get

to celebrate His incarnation, His being “made flesh.” With the birth of a baby, we can truly see who Jesus was, is, and is to come. And so it comes back to this: Those familiar with Jesus’ birth story have to work to see the wonder in it year after year of Christmas celebrations. We have to peel back layers of childhood memories, holiday expectations, consumer norms, and both the glitter and exhaustion of the season. We have to see it in its rawest form: unexpected, difficult, far-fetched, and glorious. Shall we try? “We shall not cease from exploration And the end of all our exploring Will be to arrive where we started And know the place for the first time.” - T. S. Eliot, from “Little Gidding”

Jennifer Boardman serves as Publications Editor. She loves watching sentimental Hallmark Hall of Fame Christmas movies . . . starting in November.

CPC LIFE

DECEMBER 2014

2014 CHRISTMAS OFFERING: YOUNG LIVES

OFFERING HOPE AND SUPPORT TO TEEN MOMS IN NORTH MINNEAPOLIS

e all desire a place where we are valued and safe, where we can feel connected and supported— especially when life gets chaotic. With two toddlers, right now that place for me is the Mom’s Morning ministry at CPC, and I cannot imagine going through the journey of motherhood without it. I also cannot begin to fathom handling the consuming responsibilities for these little lives at a younger age. Take a moment to imagine your childhood ending much quicker than expected, when suddenly meeting the needs of a young child becomes more important than finishing high school or spending time with friends. That is what many teen girls face in our world. In fact, one out of every ten babies in the United States is born to a teen mom. I’ve often thought that if I feel lonely or overwhelmed as a mother in my mid-thirties, then a teen mom must experience these emotions and hardships at a much more distressing rate. For this year’s Christmas Offering, CPC has the honor to connect with a new missions partner called YoungLives, an organization that runs headfirst into the chaos of teenage motherhood with the hope of Jesus. YoungLives, run by the national organization Young Life, is striving to reach teen moms by entering their world, modeling the unconditional love of Christ, and encouraging them to become the women and mothers God created them to be. Through time-tested methods and life-on-life mentoring, teen moms are empowered to make positive choices, set and achieve goals, and live a

DECEMBER 2014

CPC LIFE

future rooted in Christ. The heart of this ministry is the mentorship that each teen mom gets. Mentors build relationships with teen moms, offering guidance in matters of faith, parenting, and self-worth. This investment of time and heart has empowered positive, sustainable change in the lives of these beautiful families for more than twenty years. Through YoungLives, teen moms get the opportunity to connect with other teen moms, learn parenting skills, participate in youth group, and even attend camps where childcare and kid activities are provided.

“I felt accepted, that it was going to be okay. . . This man, Jesus, He loves me. Jesus loves me no matter what, no matter my past.” --YoungLives participant

CPC will be partnering in two distinct ways: Financially, our Christmas Offering gift will be the seed money needed to begin the first YoungLives program in the Twin Cities, allowing them to hire a coordinator, train, recruit, and develop mentors, and purchase needed equipment. But we want our support to move beyond just a monetary gift; we want to actively come alongside young women to share of Jesus’ great love for them. So at Mom’s Morning, we hope to assist the ministry by providing childcare and meals at their recurring youth group gathering called “Club.” Our hope is that the larger church community will

also seek opportunities to mentor teen moms or serve as committee members of YoungLives. As we enter this Christmas season and reflect on how our very own Savior was born to a teen mom, may our hearts be filled with awe and gratitude toward our God, who continues to take care of young mothers and use them to bless the world with new life.

Anna Vogel is a CPC member active in the Mom’s Morning ministry. Her favorite Christmas carol is “Joy to the World,” and her favorite tradition is listening to a Martin Sexton Christmas album while decorating the tree.

THIS YEAR’S

CHRISTMAS OFFERING WILL: • establish the Twin Cities’ first YoungLives chapter • provide salary for a new coordinator • train, recruit, and develop mentors • send teen moms to camp • purchase a van and other needed equipment

TO GIVE, MARK YOUR CHECK “CHRISTMAS OFFERING.”

FAITH STORY Connie Balcom

“I want everyone to know that God is here—and He can show up in the most unexpected ways.”

grew up attending a Presbyterian church in Cloquet, Minnesota, and it was a pretty regular part of my family’s life. But I didn’t ever think that Jesus was there for me, and to be honest, I’m not sure I ever thought I even needed Him. Church was just something we did. I went to college at the University of Minnesota and dropped in on Campus Life every once in a while but wasn’t active. And then I became a hippie and moved to Hawaii, where I grew alfalfa sprouts and sold them to all the hotels in Waikiki. Four years into my time in Hawaii, I remember one pivotal night riding home from a rock concert in the back of a pickup truck. With my hair blowing in the wind, we drove past a library with all the lights on, and I realized I couldn’t remember the last time I had read a book. Then we drove past a guy and girl playing tennis under the lights and laughing. And I just remember the emptiness I felt. Suddenly the adventure was over. Around this same time, I received a letter from my brother who was going to the U of M. He had run into David, a guy I used to date who I considered very nice but conventional. David told my brother, “Tell Connie to drop me a line sometime.” So I sold my Volkswagen Bug, packed my backpack, and came home. In the four years I was away, David hadn’t gotten married . . . so we did!

A few years later David and I adopted a son, and we returned to church because that had been my tradition. But I didn’t know how to make faith a part of my daily life. During this time I started a successful business. When the business suddenly fell apart, my husband and I fought a lot. One night as we sat in our convertible so we could argue away from our son, I said, “If there isn’t a change, I think we’re going to have to get a divorce.” As soon as I said divorce out loud, I heard a thunderous sound. I backtracked right away: “No, I misspoke, that isn’t the way I feel.” And David simply said, “That’s not the answer.” From then on, we stopped fighting, and I started praying to God more and more. I was motivated to find a new church, one where people look at life after meeting Jesus as new life. I arrived at CPC and took a really impactful class: Essentials 101 with Dave and Laura Scherf. Laura has a great way of looking right at you, asking pointed questions that you can’t help but answer in a personal way. And that was the magic of the class for me: It was a safe environment for me to say how I was without Jesus and now how I am with Him. Before that class, I thought I wasn’t connecting with Scripture because I didn’t know enough. But when it became personal, the Bible came alive!

I love hearing other people’s faith stories in our deacon meetings and in CPC Life because it expands my mind to the possibilities. Everyone’s story has a mystical quality to it that people who don’t believe would just dismiss. Once on a walk during a difficult period of my life, I heard God say to me, Take care of yourself, my darling daughter. I didn’t even tell my husband about this experience right away because it was so surprising, powerful, and real. But now I want everyone to know that God is here—and He can show up in the most unexpected ways. Right now, I’m all about making the Scriptures real and personal, not just academic. In a class I’m taking, we recently revisited the story of Lazarus rising from the dead. Jesus says, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.” The teacher then asked us, “What shackles do you have that are keeping you from experiencing the full joy of Christ?” That’s the powerful question I think we should all be asking ourselves, every day.

Connie is a CPC member who loves lighting her Christmas tree each year, the lights symbolizing Christ’s appearance in our world.

CPC LIFE

DECEMBER 2014

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MINISTRY PROGRAMMING | 2014 DECEMBER ISSUE

CPC Ministry Programming December 2014

At CPC, we seek to inspire all generations to follow Jesus, love others, and live missionally. Please look through the various programs for kids, students, and adults—and join us! For fuller descriptions and more information on any of these programs, please visit cpconline.org. trade gifts and nativities from around the world at Pathway. Giftwrap is complimentary. Contact: 952.848.0564.

GENERAL CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL SERVICE

Tuesday, December 2 at 7:00PM in the Sanctuary Begin Advent with a time to honor those you have lost over the years and set our hearts on the coming Messiah. Dessert follows in the Great Room. Childcare available for ages six weeks to Pre-K.

ADVENT/CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS

Due in the office by Monday, December 8 To donate toward CPC’s beautiful poinsettias and greens in memory of or in honor of someone, fill out a form in the CPC office, the Welcome Center, or at cpconline.org/churchlife. Cost: $15/plant.

MID-MONTH CHAPEL SERVICE

Wednesday, December 17 at 12:00PM A traditional service with a short message by Paul Tshihamba, hymns, Communion, and prayers. Lunch follows.

LIVE NATIVITY

Friday/Saturday, December 19/20 from 6:00-8:00PM; Sunday, December 21 from 10:30AM-1:00PM A live nativity scene—with a stable, characters, and animals—will be displayed on the north lawn. This is a dynamic opportunity for all ages to reflect on the birth of Jesus. Experience by car or foot; hot chocolate served. Contact: Debbie Ducar at x226; debbied@cpconline.org.

CHRISTMAS WORSHIP TIMES

Wednesday, December 24 at 2:00, 3:30, 5:00, 7:00, 9:00, and 11:00PM See back page for details.

PATHWAY BOOKS: FAIR TRADE GIFTS

Make a difference in the lives of others with your gift-giving this year! Find fair

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CPC LIFE

ADULTS SUNDAY COMMUNITIES

Sundays at 9:30AM & 10:45AM Sunday Communities offer a place to belong and a place to grow with people in a similar life stage. Contact: Dan Anderson at x298; danderson@cpconline.org. MIXED TAPES (20s & 30s) Meets at 9:30AM in Fellowship Hall-W S.A.L.T. (40s & 50s) Meets at 9:30AM in Fellowship Hall-E A.C.T.S. (First-Wave Baby Boomers) Meets at 9:30AM in Fellowship Hall-C MORE (Active Retired) Meets at 10:45AM in Room 107 CREDO (Intergenerational) Meets at 10:45AM in Fellowship Hall-W

SMALL GROUPS Wherever you are in your spiritual journey, being in relationship is essential to your transformation. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Deb Carlson at x316; debc@cpconline.org.

WOMEN

NEW! EVENING MOM’S GROUP

2nd Thursdays from 7:00-8:30PM in Room 200 Geared toward moms with young kids through elementary age.

MEN

DADS’ GROUP

Wednesdays from 6:15-7:30PM in the Parlor Geared toward dads of young

children through early high schoolers. Led by Allen Pofahl and Tom Wagner.

THURSDAY MORNING GROUP

Thursdays from 7:00-8:00AM in Room 108 James Madsen leads in studying The Gospel-Centered Life at Work.

THURSDAY MORNING GROUP

Thursdays from 7:00-8:00AM in Room 201 Led by Matt Faulkner, this group discusses Unbroken by Laura Hillebrand.

COUPLES

Being in a couples’ group is a great way to strenghten your marriage and grow together. Groups are based on age ranges and life stages and generally meet one evening a month. Visit cpconline.org/register for options.

WOMEN WOMEN’S CHRISTMAS BRUNCH

Saturday, December 6 at 9:00AM in the Fellowship Hall; register by noon December 4 Dee McIntosh, Associate Pastor of Missional Community Engagement, shares “Life Among the Ruins: A Personal Encounter with Christ.” Kathy Nielsen shares her faith story. Cost: $12. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Deb Carlson at x316; debc@cpconline.org.

AMAZING GRACE BOOK GROUP

Monday, December 8 at 1:00PM in the Parlor; meets 2nd Mondays We discuss Jan Karon’s new book, Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good. Contact: Carol Krebs at 952.944.6639.

MOM’S MORNING

Large Group Wednesday, December 3 in the Fireside Room from 9:30-11:30AM; usually meets

2014 DECEMBER ISSUE | MINISTRY PROGRAMMING

2nd & 4th Wednesdays Join other moms for fellowship and inspirational speakers. This month, we celebrate Christmas Brunch with SISTER, an energetic and inspirational performance trio. Their program is entitled, “The Best Gifts of the Season.” Register: Tara Wagner at taramwagner@gmail.com.

NEEDLEWORK GUILD

Saturday, December 13 from 10:00AM2:00PM in the Fellowship Hall; meets 2nd Saturdays Our mission is to make warm garments and blankets for local agencies that serve the needy. We have yarn, fabric, and knitters to get you started. Contact: Sally Stoutenburgh at 952.927.6915.

MOMS OF TEENS

Large Group Thursday, December 18 from 9:1511:30AM in the Fellowship Hall We are pleased to welcome back Heather Flies, youth pastor at Wooddale Church, and her co-worker Micah Hegerle. They bring us up to date on the latest social media trends and talk about how we can be a good influence in this part of our children’s world. Cost: $5. Contact: Colette Prohofsky at 952.920.8714; coprohof@gmail.com. Small Groups Daytime: meets twice monthly on Thursdays from 9:30-11:00AM in Rooms 200, 201, & 202 Evening: meets 1st & 3rd Mondays from 7:00-8:30PM in Room 203 Groups discuss a Christian parenting book and support one another on our parenting journeys. Evening group alternates between the book study and watching a video of the monthly Large Group speaker. Contact: Cheryl Lamone at 612.275.3436; cheryllam@me.com.

CIRCLES

Circles combine fellowship, learning, and service in a small group setting. They consist primarily of women over 50; new members always welcome. Martha Circle Wednesday, December 17 at 10:00AM in the Parlor; meets 3rd Wednesdays We meet in the Parlor for a special time of sharing Christmas traditions, devotions, and treats. Contact: Pat Haberkorn at 952.941.4188.

Ruth Circle Meets every Wednesday at 9:30AM On the first and third Wednesdays, we meet in a home for food, fellowship, devotions, and prayers. On the other Wednesdays, we serve at Feed My Starving Children and at CPC. Contact: Barb Bucha at 952.470.4414.

50+ EDYNAMOES

Wednesday, December 3 at 11:30AM in the Fellowship Hall Enjoy a Christmas luncheon with friends! We are blessed to welcome Reverend Brian Bopp for a program entitled “Christmas at Bethlehem,” where he portrays four witnesses to the Nativity. Cost: $5. Register by December 1: Judy Romine at 952.929.4983. Please bring donations/toys for VEAP. We also request Jerry’s cash receipts, Campbell’s Soup labels, and pop can tabs.

NESTERS: CPC’S ACTIVE RETIREMENTAGE COMMUNITY

Saturday, December 6 at 6:30PM in the Fellowship Hall Enjoy a Christmas dinner and a performance by BRAVA!, a Twin Cities women’s choral ensemble. Cost: $20 per person. Register/pay by December 3: Mary Allen at x243; marya@cpconline.org.

CARE BEGINNING AGAIN

Tuesday, December 2 at 4:15PM; meet at CPC’s North entrance Beginning Again is CPC’s support group for those dealing with the practical issues that follow the death of a spouse. Meet at church for transportation to a member’s home for a potluck dinner, followed by CPC’s Candlelight Memorial Service. Register: Mary Allen x243; marya@ cpconline.org.

ABUNDANTLY SATISFIED: WEIGHT CARE GROUP

Sundays, December 7 & 21 from 9:3010:30AM in Room 203; meets 1st & 3rd Sundays We support each other with weight issues that keep us from experiencing God’s abundant life for us. No weighins; lots of grace and support! Contact:

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Sandy Radeke at 952.452.1205; sandy_ radeke@earthlink.net.

ALZHEIMER’S EDUCATION SERIES

Thursday, December 11 from 6:308:00PM in the Fireside Room; meets 2nd Thursdays through March A series for care partners and those with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. In December, Kris Pearson presents “On a Journey Home: A Caregiver’s Experience.” No registration needed. Contact: Mary Allen at x243; marya@cpconline.org.

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

Friday, December 12 from 10:00AM12:00PM in the Parlor; usually meets 2nd Fridays & 4th Saturdays Our mission is to prayerfully knit or crochet shawls with the hope of being vessels for God’s presence and comfort. No knitting experience needed; all are welcome. Coaching and materials can be provided. Contact: Pat Johnson at 952.947.0734.

GRACE & HOPE FOR OUR CHILDREN

Tuesday, December 16 from 7:00-8:30PM in the Parlor; meets 3rd Tuesdays Does your child experience emotional or mental health issues? You are not alone. Join other parents, friends, and caregivers as we care for one another on our journeys. Meetings include sharing time and occasional guest speakers. Contact: Doug Brown at 612.839.9992; dbrown@dcbrowninc.com.

MISSIONS JOY OF GIVING: CHRISTMAS STORE

Collection due: December 7 by 12:30PM Volunteers needed: December 8-12 Day of Store: December 13 This year, in lieu of Adopt-A-Family, CPC partners with the Plymouth Christian Youth Center in North Minneapolis. We need over 5,000 gifts in the $7-$10 range and over 300 volunteers to help 1,000 youth shop for their loved ones. Volunteers are needed to donate money for gift cards, contribute toys and gifts, sell tickets, sort items, and set up the store the week of December 8-12. Day-of volunteers will escort children, help with the selection of gifts, and run the cash register. Learn more: cpconline. org/joyofgiving. Register: pcyc-mpls.org. Contact: Dawn Locklear at 612.799.8293; lockleard@crown.edu. CPC LIFE

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CHRISTMAS FLOWER DELIVERY

Sunday, December 28 following the 11:00AM service Bring the joy of Christmas to senior citizens of CPC. After the 11:00AM service on December 28, retrieve a plant from the Great Room and deliver it to their residence with your best wishes for the new year. Deacons will be on hand to give direction.

CALVARY S.T.E.P. TUTORS NEEDED

Wednesdays from 5:00-5:45PM at Calvary Baptist Church (2608 Blaisdell Ave. S., Minneapolis 55408) Help K-5th graders from Whittier receive one-on-one tutoring, then serve them a meal followed by spiritual programming. Volunteer: Sarah Sutliff at sasutliff@comcast.net.

KIDS WEDNESDAY NIGHT PROGRAMS

Wednesdays, December 3 & 10 from 6:00-7:30PM 1st-5th grade Wednesday night programming is an opportunity for kids to learn more about God and live out their faith through music, friendship, reading the Bible, and connection with leaders. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Sara Lightbody at x203; saral@cpconline.org.

WEEKEND PROGRAMS

Saturday 5:15PM; Sunday 9:30AM, 11:00AM, & 5:00PM services During weekend services, we minister to children (six weeks through 6th grade) and families by engaging kids in their relationship with Jesus. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Tammy Mitchell at x216; tammym@cpconline.org.

FAMILY ADVENT CELEBRATION

Friday, December 5 at CPC 6:00-6:30PM – Early call for a family hayride 6:30-7:00PM – Family worship with sing-along Christmas carols and finding out what Advent is all about 7:00-8:00PM – Cookie decoration, hot chocolate, Advent craft, and hayrides

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CPC LIFE

MINISTRY PROGRAMMING | 2014 DECEMBER ISSUE

HOLIDAY PROGRAMMING

Sunday, December 7: Children’s Choir (1st-2nd grades) in Sunday 11:00AM worship with regular Kids’ programming Sunday, December 14: Children’s Choir (3rd-5th grades) in Sunday 9:30AM worship with regular Kids’ programming Wednesday, December 17, 24, 31, & January 7: No Wednesday night programs; December 17, Special Advent Service (see next column) Wednesday, December 24: See back page for details Wednesday, January 14: Programs resume

CALLING ALL SHEPHERDS, ANGELS, & SHEEP

Mandatory Rehearsal: Saturday, December 20 at 10:00AM OR Tuesday, December 23 at 5:30PM Worship Services: Wednesday, December 24 at 2:00, 3:30, & 5:00PM Kids’ Ministries presents a retelling of the Christmas Story at the Family Worship Services. We need kids between 5 and 11 years old to participate in one of the three services as shepherds, angels, and sheep. Please indicate which of the three services your child will attend. Kids need to bring their own costumes (except sheep). Contact: Tammy Mitchell at x216; tammym@ cpconline.org.

JANUARY CHOIR/CLUB PROGRAMS

1st-5th Grade Choirs: Wednesdays from 6:00-6:45PM 1st-5th Grade Club/Club Jr.: Wednesdays from 6:45-7:30PM January is a great time to get your kids involved in our Wednesday Choir/Club for elementary-age students to learn about God and live out faith in worship and relationships. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Sara Lightbody at x203; saral@cpconline.org.

STUDENTS TAPESTRY

Tuesdays, December 2 (Anderson Hall) & 16 (Fireside Room) from 6:30-7:30PM A ministry for kids and students with special needs. We explore who God is

and how we can have a relationship with Him through Bible study, service projects, games, guest speakers, and story/drama. Contact: Kari Dubord at x261; karid@cpconline.org.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR JAMAICA GO! TRIP

Register by: December 15 Trip: March 28-April 3 CPC students and their parents are invited on a GO! Trip to Jamaica with World Servants. We’ll serve families who are poor, elderly, and indigent, and do community outreach through a kids’ club. Leisure activities as well. Trip Leaders: Trevor and Amanda Tinsley from CPC and Patti Juarez from World Servants. Cost: $845/person (plus airfare ~$1,100). Register: cpconline.org/ register. Contact: Trevor Tinsley at x304; trevort@cpconline.org.

FAMILY ADVENT SERVICE HOSTED BY STUDENT MINISTRIES

Wednesday, December 17 at 6:00PM Students, families, and the community are invited to celebrate the Advent season with a special Student Ministries-run service. We do not have regular programming this Wednesday but hope you are able to make this an event for everyone in your family. Contact: Erin Hettinger at x305; erinh@ cpconline.org.

MOSAIC WORSHIP SERVICE

Sunday, December 21 at 12:30PM in the Sanctuary Mosaic is a worship service for kids and students with special needs and their families. Noises, sounds, and movements are welcome! Followed by a light lunch. Contact: Kari Dubord x261; karid@cpconline.org.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

ELEVATE AND ENGAGE

Wednesdays, December 3 & 10 from 6:15-7:30PM (no programming on December 17, 24, & 31) A night of fun, large-group learning, and small-group discussion for 6th8th graders. Contact for 6th-7th grade Elevate: Van Chounlamountry at x306; vanc@cpconline.org. Contact for 8th grade Engage: Lexi Soldo at x279; lexis@cpconline.org.

2014 DECEMBER ISSUE | MINISTRY PROGRAMMING

HIGH SCHOOL

HSM HOUSE GROUPS

Wednesdays, December 3 & 10 from 8:00-9:15 (no programming on December 17, 24, & 31) All House Groups meet in area homes. Contact: Brooke Toftoy at x286; brooket@ cpconline.org.

MISSION: CHICAGO

Saturday-Wednesday, December 27-31 in Chicago Students in grades 9-12 are invited on a service-learning trip to Chicago. Serve, love, and hear stories of God’s people in need. Register: cpconline.org/register. Contact: Trevor Tinsley at x304; trevort@ cpconline.org.

COLLEGE

SEEKING 2015 COLLEGE INTERNS

Applications due Monday, December 15 CPC is looking for a team of 12 college students to serve the kids and students of our church from May 26 to July 30, 2015. Find applications and information at cpconline.org/summerinterns. Applicants must have completed one year of college or post-high school employment. Interviews are held over Christmas break.

SPECIAL JANUARY EVENTS NEW MEMBERS’ CLASS

Sundays, January 11-March 8 Classes include an intro lunch, three small group sessions, meeting with a pastor, and more. Contact: Karen Heine at x210; karenh@cpconline.org. Register: cpconline.org/membership.

URBAN HOMEWORKS WORKDAY

Saturday, January 17 from 8:30AM-3:00PM Work alongside other CPCers ages 16 and over to rehab a home in North Minneapolis. Register: cpconline. org/register. Contact: Don Durrett at 952.423.8828; ddurrettjr@gmail.com.

FAMILY FEST WINTER WEEKEND

January 16-19 & February 13-16 Join Family Fest, CPC’s friend in ministry, at Winter Weekend, a multi-generational getaway at Grand View Lodge. Enjoy speakers, winter sports, bonfires, plus great

accommodations and food. Contact: Pete Larson at 952.881.0939; mail@ familyfestministries.org. Visit: familyfestministries.org.

COMEDIAN MICHAEL JR. AT CPC

Saturday, January 31 at 7:30PM at CPC Beat the winter blahs with comedian Michael Jr. who has been featured on “The Tonight Show,” “Comedy Central,” “Oprah,” and at the Willow Creek Leadership Summit. No cost.

WINTER ADULT CLASSES

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This nine-week series from Dave Ramsey offers practical, biblical resources for financial management. Cost: $100/household.

MEN’S BREAKFAST

Saturday, January 24 from 7:00-9:00AM in Fellowship Hall All men are invited for food, fellowship, and a speaker. Mark Lutz, senior vice president of global philanthropy at Opportunity International, speaks on “The Extremely Poor Will Not Always Be with You.” Faith story by CPCer Bob Tinsley. Cost: $12 in advance; $15 at the door.

WOMEN IN THE WORD

Mondays beginning January 5 from 9:3011:45AM in Anderson Hall Our winter study is Always True: God’s 5 Promises When Life is Hard by James MacDonald. During our spring session beginning March 2, we study Hebrews: The Nearness of King Jesus by Lisa Harper. Cost: $20/one study; $35/both studies. DVD lecture, small group discussion, and fellowship. Childcare: $50/child.

TUESDAY EVENING WOMEN’S SMALL GROUP BIBLE STUDY

2nd & 4th Tuesdays, January 13-April 28 from 6:45-8:45PM in Room 10 New study starting. Welcome to women of all ages. Led by Jane Pooler.

ESSENTIALS 101: OVERVIEW OF GOD’S STORY

Wednesdays beginning January 14 from 6:00-7:30PM in a nearby home Get the big picture of God’s story from Genesis to Revelation, and learn how you fit into His amazing plan. Join us for this ten-week class led by Dave and Laura Scherf.

WOMEN’S SMALL GROUP BIBLE STUDY

Thursdays beginning January 15 from 6:45-8:15PM in Room 303 We study Beth Moore’s Children of the Day on 1 and 2 Thessalonians. Weekly homework, DVD lecture, small group discussion, and fellowship. Deb Paulson leads.

RECENTLY HOSPITALIZED: Ann Birt Larry Carlson Stacy Deakyne Jean Funk Ralph Hadlund Terry Hitchcock John Horton Kelly Linert Hal Miller Ruth Tate Phyllis Wagner

FINANCIAL UPDATE:

June 1-October 31, 2014 Ministry Offering Budget: $1,556,317.17 Actual Offering: $1,442,819.67 Variance: ($113,497.50) October Mission Focus (Opportunity InternationalNicaragua): $38,409.63 YTD Mission Focus Total: $63,845.28 Expenses are under budget year-to-date.

MAKE A YEAR-END GIFT TO CPC DELIVER OR POSTMARK GIFTS BY D E C E M B E R 31, 2014.

FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY

Thursdays beginning January 22 from 6:30-8:30PM in Anderson Hall

THE

GEN

3 PROJECT

Visit cpconline.org/give

Celebrating the sacrament of baptism.

1st and 2nd graders receive their new Bibles.

Forty-five new members are welcomed into the CPC family.

DECE M learning B E R 2 about 0 1 4 the| realities C P C ofLurban I F E life. Taking10 The Plunge and

Craft-time fun at Fam Jam!

of the

MIND

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

AVAILABLE IN PATHWAY Unwrapping the Greatest Gift: A Family Celebration of Christmas - Ann Voskamp

Advent – noun \'advent, chiefly British -v nt\ 1. the period beginning four Sundays before Christmas 2. the coming of Christ at the Incarnation from the Latin “adventus,” meaning “coming” A CHRISTMAS STORY

Celebrate Advent with daily Scripture, a devotional for all ages, and various activities. A great way to bring Sticky Faith* to Christmas!

*Because parents are the single greatest influence on their children’s faith, it’s important to talk to kids about Jesus!

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS

CPCERS’ FAVORITE CHRISTMAS MOVIE!

ELF

WHITE CHRISTMAS

HOME ALONE

The Adoration of the Shepherds, Gerard van Honthorst, 1622

(POLL CONDUCTED VIA CPC’S FACEBOOK PAGE)

“For outlandish creatures like us, on our way to a heart, a brain, and courage, Bethlehem is not the end of our journey but only the beginning—not home but the place through which we must pass if ever we are to reach home at last.”

FREDERICK BUECHNER writer and theologian

“BEHOLD, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call HIS NAME EMMANUEL, which being interpreted is, GOD WITH US.” – Matthew 1:23

Advent Action: BRINGING CHRISTMAS LOVE TO CPC’S SENIORS CITIZENS Following the 11:00AM service on December 28, pick up a poinsettia in the Great Room and deliver it to a CPC senior with best wishes for the new year.

Worship Times this Month Saturdays at 5:15PM | Contemporary Worship Sundays at 9:30AM | Traditional Worship Sundays at 11:00AM | Contemporary Worship Sundays at 5:00PM | The Table at CPC Tuesday, December 2 at 7:00PM | Candlelight Memorial Service Wednesday, December 17 at 12:00PM | Mid-Month Chapel Service Sunday, December 21 at 12:30PM | Mosaic Worship (for children with special needs and their families) Wednesday, December 24 | Christmas Eve Services (see below for times)

This Advent, experience anew the wonder of Christ’s birth. As we explore the holy moment when Light entered the darkness, we’ll also witness how Jesus’ birth and life continue to change hearts and minds two thousand years later. Together let’s come and see the Christ child and then be moved and challenged to go and tell of His wonder and love.

Join us as we celebrate the gift of Jesus Christ—Emmanuel, God with us— at Christmas Eve services at Christ Presbyterian Church. Family Services • 2:00, 3:30, & 5:00PM (childcare available for six weeks to two years)

Traditional Lessons & Carols Service (with choir) • 9:00PM (no childcare available)

Traditional Communion Service • 7:00PM (childcare available for six weeks to two years)

The Table at CPC (Contemporary) • 11:00PM (no childcare available)