Contact ......................................................... 2

Announcements ..................................3-4

Worship Ministry .................................5-6

Children’s Ministry ...................................7

Preschool .................................................... 8

Adult Ministry......................................9-10

Admin/ Finance Ministry......................11

Mission & Outreach ........................12-13

Youth Ministry .........................................14

Congregational

Care Ministry ............................................. 15

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

In the life of Crossroads Presbyterian Church, we continue to work towards fulfilling God’s ministries in ways that honor God beyond just the walls of our church. We give thanks for the leadership that Pastor Bob Sheldon has provided our congregation during a time of great need. We wish him abundant blessings as he begins a new journey at Kirk in the Hills Presbyterian Church of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. As a church body moving forward, we have a wonderful, God-given opportunity to continue to transform into a body that seeks to engage in worship, education, fellowship, stewardship, and mission/outreach. As we eagerly anticipate the call of a new senior pastor, Session has made a strong commitment to intentionally prepare our congregation for the road ahead in a variety of ways. It has developed a Community Vision and Strategic Priorities which serve as an internal road map in directing our church down the path God has chosen for us. Our new senior pastor will join us on this path. Session has also developed the Shared Leadership Model to engage our congregation and provide them with opportunities to share their God-given gifts and talents within our many ministries. Additionally, Session has been in ongoing dialogue with the Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC) in order to ensure that they are equipped and supported to discern the senior pastor that God is calling to Crossroads. By engaging in the above work, our Session has laid a firm foundation that will help support our church body during this season and allow our new senior pastor to focus primarily on relationship building during his/her first year. While Session has done a significant amount of work on behalf of our congregation, we as a church body also have an instrumental role as we prepare for a new senior pastor. We have an opportunity to share with one another how we are intentionally living out our Community Vision and how we can live it out even more fully in our daily lives. We also have an opportunity to develop positive, healthy ways to develop our church body and lift each other up despite differing perspectives that we have on challenging topics such as same-sex marriage, single service worship, and transitioning to a new pastor. Ephesians 4:15–16 (NRSV) says, “But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love.” Please prayerfully consider how we can use our current circumstances to further our discipleship of Christ in a way that honors God and keeps our church family together. We look forward to engaging in conversation with you during this important time in our life together. In Service to Christ,The Session of Crossroads Presbyterian Church

In This Issue

November 2014

Contact

Pastoral StaffInterim Pastor/Head of Staff: Rev. Bob SheldonInterim Associate Pastor: Rev. Marilyn GammPastor Emeritus: Rev. Paul B. Doedens

Congregational Care StaffInterim Director of Congregational Care: Karen Barnes

Worship and Music StaffWorship Minister: Todd O’ConnorAssociate Worship Minister: Jenee O’ConnorChildren’s Music Ministry Coordinator: Tina CarrollHandbell Choir Director: Betsy Tiedens GennéOrganists: Dr. Stephen E. Carlton Carol Leonard

Youth Ministry StaffDirector of Student Ministries: Victor Vilar

Preschool StaffDirector of Preschool: Maureen LeurquinPreschool Teachers: Heather Busby Valerie Hawkins Christine Korb Cindi Smith

Childcare Ministry StaffChildcare Coordinator: Valerie HawkinsChildcare Providers: Alexa Blake Amy Blake Heather Busby Anna Hirssig Carol Perlberg

Administrative StaffChurch Administrator: Mary SchigodaOffice Manager: Tina CarrollAdministrative Assistants: Louanne Hockstad

Tricia LandrumStaff Accountant: Sherry Kriesher

Facilities and Hospitality StaffFacility Managers: Bob Keebler Jim Lippe

Crossroads Presbyterian Church6031 W. Chapel Hill Rd.

Mequon, WI 53097Ph.: 262-242-1670Fax: 262-242-4809

To email a Crossroads staff member, simply follow this model:

first name.last name@crossroadspres.org

Bulletin, Weekly News and Courier Deadlines

Bulletin/Weekly News Wednesday at 8:00 a.m.

Email announcements to: bulletin@crossroadspres.orgFebruary Courier

January 13 by 8:00 a.m.Email announcements to: courier@crossroadspres.org

*All submissions are subject to editing or omission.*

Sign up for Crossroads Weekly NewsFor up-to-date information about what’s happening at Crossroads, visit www.crossroadspres.org and sign up for the Crossroads Weekly News, a weekly newsletter which is sent by email every Thursday, or stop by the Info Window for a printed copy.

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Saying Thank You is Important

“I thank my God every time I remember you,

constantly praying with joy in every one

of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel

from the first day until now.”

— Philippians 1:3–5 When we began this interim adventure together in March of 2013, we knew that this day would come—but I don’t like to say, “goodbye.” I would rather say, “thank you.” Thank you to each of the Session members, past and present, who have toiled so selflessly to transform a wounded congregation into a people of vision and hope. Thank you to each of the staff members, past and present, who have served so faithfully during the five—yes, count them, five—different models for ministry through which we have evolved as we sought a way to serve the people of God as a genuine team. And thank you to each and every one of you who have hung in there when many waivered, to you who have pushed forward together through the storm into the light, to you who have faithfully served our God in ways that make community welcoming and growth inevitable. Thank you. Your best years are ahead of you, and I am honored to have labored with you during this time of transition and transformation. Perhaps if we say “thank you” enough, this really will be a “good bye,” and God’s Kingdom will continue to grow within and around us, as God’s plan continues to unfold and be revealed. Thank you, my friends, for the adventure of a lifetime. “I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.” —Philippians 1:6 We’re all in this together, Bob SheldonInterim Pastor/Head of Staff

The Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC) meets weekly on Wednesday evenings. Our Ministry Information Form (MIF) was approved by Session in August and by the Presbytery Committee on Ministry (COM) in September. We started receiving Pastor Information Forms (PIFs) in September and are busy reviewing those along with watching, listening, and reading pastor sermons/blogs/websites. We had our first phone interviews in October. We start each meeting with devotions as we seek God’s help in selecting the new pastor for Crossroads. We know that God has already chosen this person and ask for discernment as we move through the process. We ask for your prayers as well.

Specifically, please pray for:Crossroads’ Congregation: • PatienceinGod’stiming• TrustandfaithintheHolySpirittoleadanewpastor to Crossroads• Gentleandopenheartstowelcomeanewpastor

New Pastor: • Thathe/shewillrespondtoGod’scallingtoCrossroads• ThatGodwillgivehim/heraloveforourchurchand the strength to leave his/her current position• ThatGodwillblesshis/herrelationshipwithour church even during the search process• ThatGodwillprepareournextpastortoshepherdour church through his/her experiences• Strengthfornewpastor’sfamilytomovetoMequon

PNC:• Patienceanddiscernment• HavethemindofChristandbeledbytheHolySpirit• Wisdomtochoosetherightperson• Disciplineasasearchcommitteeandasindividuals

We welcome any comments, suggestions or recommendations that you have. Feel free to send our MIF, available on the church website, to friends or pastors that you know. God may be using you to share this opening to His candidate.

Your PNC,Dave Carpenter, Tim Doedens, Karen Patten, Nancy Ponstein Disabato, Dawn Root, Chris Spotts and Dave Steck, Moderator

Announcements

Announcements

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Please contact Betsy Genné at 262-242-9391.

Upcoming Mission Trip Information

Register by January 15, 2015! Spring Break Mission 2015 will accommodate the Mequon and Cedarburg school spring vacations, March 27–April 5, and April 3–12, 2015. Cost per person is $625 and includes lodging, meals, and transportation while in Cancun; a portion helps purchase construction materials used during the trip; roundtrip airfare is extra. Crossroads has been a life-force in building the physical plant, conducting kid’s programming, and installing a water purification plant in this community. Partner with IDEA Ministries on this family-friendly, 10-day project-with-a-purpose over spring break, working with “Ministerio de Vida” Mission in Cancun, Mexico. Contact Dave Stern, to express your interest at 262-389-6851 or dstern@harriganindustrial.com.

Security System Improvements

In the interest of the safety of our parishioners and staff, the Building and Grounds Committee has completed phase one of the Crossroads Church Facility Security System earlier this year. Phase one included the addition of an electronic door strike lock system with programmable access cards, blanking and re-keying of exterior doors, and the placement and manning of a sign-in desk in the narthex. Phase two is now underway, and will eventually include the placement of several strategically placed and unobtrusive security cameras and a recording system. This system will be used to further enhance security and to aid in law enforcement activity and evidence gathering. We will keep you informed as further developments occur.

Building and Grounds Committee:Gary Gwidt, Bob Keebler, Jim Lippe, Dave Schigoda, Jim Schmale and Jeff Wolf

Advent Events at Crossroads

These three special Advent events at Crossroads are wonderful ways to get ready for Christmas. Additional mission and giving opportunities also exist. Visit us at www.crossroadspress.org and click on “Christmas at Crossroads” for details, or call the church office to register.

• Sunday,November30:AdventBrunch,“Followthe Star” at noon (please register; see p. 15)• Saturday,December6:BirthdayPartyforJesus sponsored by MOPS, 9:30–11:00 a.m. (please register; see p. 7)• Sunday,December7:freeHandel’s“Messiah” performance by the Milwaukee Area Messiah Community Chorus and Orchestra at 3:00 p.m., with freewill offering taken for the Milwaukee Rescue Mission; www.mamccoo.org • Forworshipservices,pleaseseep.5.

NEEDS YOU!

Five years ago at Crossroads a local weekly meeting of the worldwide group Families Anonymous began to serve the community. Still going strong, Families Anonymous serves families, friends and loved ones of those who may have drug, alcohol or related emotional problems. This is a 12-Step Program to support the family and friends of the user who struggle through coping with a life turned upside down. Are you torn apart by these issues in your home/family? Families Anonymous can help. We meet every Thursday in the CLC at 7:00 p.m. Come and see if this is the right support group for you. Contact cedarburgfa@gmail.com or call 414-378-5815.

SAVE THE DATE... May 16–23, 2015 Pine Ridge Indian Reservation (WAEM) Mission Ministry to one of the poorest areas in the U.S. - contact Bill Hoover 262-376-9182 or Gary Loos 414-881-0467

Worship Ministry

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“Our Hope: Yesterday, Today and Always”

Have you ever felt hopeless? Ever been consumed in despair? Ever wondered how you could possibly go on? This Advent and Christmas you are invited to Crossroads to receive a message of hope. Hope is not lost. Hope is not out of reach. Hope is not gone. Hope is born, and His name is Emmanuel, God with us!

As promised long ago, Christ’s coming was foretold by prophets, including Micah, Jeremiah, and Isaiah. Generations upon generations of the faithful believed God’s Word and looked for a sign that the Messiah was on the way. Hope sustained them. Then one night, God’s great plan of salvation broke into our world through the mystery of the incarnation. Hope was born to save, and everything changed. And now we, like the generations of old, can look ahead to each new day with that same hope-filled longing for the future. As believers, we exist between two epiphanies: His advent, that first light of appearing, the beautiful day of mercy when God allowed humankind to walk with His Son, and His second advent, that day when we will see His glory revealed. We live now in the power of this timeless story and gain strength as we anticipate His return. Jesus Christ is our Hope: yesterday, today and always! (Hebrews 13:8)

This theme will be woven throughout Crossroads this season: sermons and classes about the prophets, a children’s musical about shepherds who were there that holy night, a festival cantata inviting you to worship Emmanuel, and Christmas Eve services that inspire and illuminate these great truths. It is our prayer this Advent and Christmas that the God of hope will fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope. (Romans 15:13)

Christmas Eve Services

Eeryone is invited to attend our beautiful and memorable Christmas Eve worship services at Crossroads on Wednesday night, December 24. Each service will include a Christmas message, the singing of “Silent Night” as candles are lit throughout the darkened sanctuary, and a festive “Joy to the World” at the end!

Family Service at 4:00 p.m.: This year Crossroads will hold one especially family-friendly worship service. A worship ensemble of carolers and instrumentalists will lead this service and children will have the opportunity to participate during the telling of the Christmas story. While there will be no childcare or Children’s Worship offered this night, a child-friendly space with informal overflow seating is available in the CLC with video projection simulcasting the service. Ignite Service at 7:00 p.m.: Experience Christmas Eve as never before, led by the Crossroads Ignite worship team! This powerful new service features contemporary music and Christmas carols led by an intergenerational praise and worship team. Dr. Chris Spotts will bring a special Christmas message of hope. Come ready to worship deeply. Come ready to connect with God and with fellow believers. Come ready to Ignite your faith to a new level and get on fire for God! Communion Service at 10:00 p.m.: Our late-night traditional Christmas Eve worship service features classic Christmas carols and music sung by the choir and rung by the handbells. Added last year was the celebration of the Lord’s Supper, remembering Christ’s incarnation. Come and experience the majesty and grandeur of Christ’s sacred arrival as the Worship Choir leads beautiful Christmas worship.

Upcoming in Worship• Sunday, December 14: “David’s Dynasty” musical at 9:30 a.m. • Sunday,December21:“ChristIsBorn—Emmanuel” cantata featuring Festival Choir and Orchestra with Chancel Ringers at 9:30 a.m. (no brunch following) • Wednesday,December24:ChristmasEveCandlelight Services (see article) • Sunday,December28:Carol-SingWorshipwithsermon at 9:30 a.m. • Sunday,January4:Communionat9:30a.m.(Church Family Meeting with all-church brunch) • Sunday,January11:ConfirmationServiceat9:30a.m.

Advent Devotionals Available

Crossroads is pleased to offer materials for devotional use during Advent. They are available starting November 19 for a suggested donation of $1 each near the Info Window. This year the first Sunday of Advent falls on November 30, at the end of the Thanksgiving weekend.

“Branches of the Tree” by Jeff Stone goes through the many names in Jesus’ family tree found in Matthew 1. Perfect for adults and youth, these daily devotions are easily-read Bible-based insights about many of the key figures in the genealogy of Jesus, each with a message to share about our Savior. Also available as an ebook from www.amazon.com.

“What’s the Good Word?” by Carol Geisler is an Advent calendar that lets young children count the 25 days until Jesus’ birth, from promise to fulfillment. Begin each day of this “Advent Treasure Hunt” on the back with a question, riddle, or fill-in-the-blank, and then open the “window” on the front to reveal a related Christian image and Scripture verse.

Worship Ministry Team Update

The Crossroads Worship Ministry Team fosters the creation of worship experiences that glorify the triune God and uplift His church. Taking direction from the shared Community Vision posted in our Gathering Space, the Single Service Project Team has been working to bring the church together as a unified worshipping community that acknowledges and respects a wide variety of style differences in love. As of September, the team has been better able to include the talents and traditions of the entire Crossroads family, so all ages can participate. We encourage everyone to stay open to the Spirit working in our hearts and church community as we continue to build something new and rejoice that we all can be together in worship. (Philippians 2:3–4; Hebrews 12:1–3) We value your ongoing feedback via the “Join the Conversation!” comment card box in the narthex. Serving Christ in this time and place: Steve Carpenter, Tina Carroll, Todd and Jenee O’Connor, Elder Mary Quam, Doug Uhl

Festival Sunday on December 21

The Crossroads Festival Choir and Orchestra are thrilled to present a powerful Christmas cantata “Hope Is Born—Emmanuel!” on Sunday, December 21 during the 9:30 a.m. worship service. This full-length musical with soloists and inspiring narration contains creative arrangements of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” “Angels from the Realms of Glory,” “Silent Night” and “O Holy Night,” plus the carol tunes “Good King Wenceslaus” and “See Amid the Winter’s Snow.” Other classics to be sung include “Mary, Did You Know,” “In the First Light,” and “Glory to God” from Handel’s “Messiah.” Crossroads’ own handbell choir, the Chancel Ringers, will also present beautiful music that same morning.

Youth and adults are needed to be a part of leading all this worship! To ring in the Chancel Ringers, please contact Betsy Genné about Tuesday rehearsals at 262-242-9391 or betsytied@aol.com. To sing in the Festival Choir, just come to four Thursday rehearsals in the Music Room on November 20, December 4, 11 and 18 at 7:00 p.m. To play in the Festival Orchestra, contact Todd O’Connor by November 16 before rehearsing on both November 20 and December 18 at 7:00 p.m. Both the choir and orchestra will have an important dress rehearsal on December 20 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Note: This year there will be no church brunch following Sunday’s presentation. If you or someone you know may be interested in participating musically or have questions, please contact Todd and Jenee O’Connor, Worship Ministers, at 262-242-1670 or oconnor@crossroadspres.org.

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Come One, Come All!

Help decorate the church for the Advent and Christmas season! Many hands make for light work and good fellowship. No special skills are required; you will be shown how to assemble and hang each seasonal decoration as needed. Please sign up at the Info Window

to volunteer your kind assistance. We plan to decorate on Friday, November 28 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. If you cannot hang, also consider helping take decorations down things the week of January 4–10. If you have any questions or suggestions, please contact coordinator Mary Freel at 262-253-1125 or marysfreel@gmail.com.

Worship Ministry

Children’s Ministry

Elementary COW

We continue learning through the Moo-sical “David’s Dynasty.” Scripture, drama, dance, set design and tech are all ways we are working together to tell the Christmas Story. Please see the Worship page for an invitation to the show.

Upcoming themes:

November 5 Packer PartyNovember 12 Crazy Hat /Sock NightNovember 19 “Save the Turkey!”November 26 NO COWDecember 3 6:00–7:15 p.m. (note time) Dress rehearsal; NO Dinner!December 10 6:00–7:15 p.m. (note time) Dress rehearsal; NO Dinner!December 14 Invite a friend to the performance: 9:30 a.m. worship service.

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What is Children’s Worship?

Children’s Worship is an age-appropriate worship experience for children 3 years-old through second grade. Junior Children’s Worship (3−5 years) meets in the Children’s Worship Center on the lower level; Senior Children’s Worship (grades K–2) meets in the Fireside Lounge upstairs. All children attend the worship service and are then dismissed after the Time for Children in the worship service. It is helpful to pick up your child’s nametag before the worship service.

Birthday Party for Jesus!Saturday, December 6, 9:30–11:00 a.m.

FREE family event! Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) at Crossroads Presbyterian invite children ages 0–grade 5 and their parents to the Christian Life Center for a fun celebration of the real meaning of Christmas. Everyone begins singing Christmas carols and children can select age-appropriate Christmas activities. The morning ends with a birthday cake for Jesus. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Ozaukee Family Sharing food pantry. Register no later than December 1 by calling the church office at 262-242-1670, or sign up at the Info Window at Crossroads or e-mail Joy Brezovar at joybrezovar@yahoo.com.

Sunday School begins at 10:45 a.m. in the Praise and Plays Room on the lower level, where teachers meet students and nametags can be picked up. There is a brief review of the previous week’s theme of “The Bible: The Big God Story” and then children are dismissed to their own classrooms. Please pick up your children in their classrooms at 11:45 a.m.

Crossroads is using “We Believe,” the curriculum developed by the PC(USA). Parents receive an e-mail before Sunday informing them of the Bible story and suggestions for family discussions.

Preschool (3K–5K) meets in the 3K–4K room next to childcare; grades K–2 meet in the Storytelling Room; grades 3 and 4 meet in HolyWord Theater, and grade 5 (with a special tween curriculum) meets in the Good News Room. All rooms are on the lower level.

Preschool

~CROSSROADS CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL ~LEARNING, CARING AND SHARING GOD’S LOVE

CELEBRATES 10th ANNIVERSARY!

Maureen Leurquin, Director of Preschool3K Teachers – Valerie Hawkins and Christine Korb

4K Teachers – Cindi Smith & Heather Busby Serving Families in Ozaukee, Milwaukee & Washington Counties.

Currently 80% of enrolled children are non-Crossroads members!

“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.” — 1 Cor. 3:6–9 NIV

When I think of Crossroads Christian Preschool, I think of this Bible verse. When God is at work, He calls people alongside Him to participate in the ministry. He guides us, directs us, and shows us what we must do. It is then up to the people He calls to be obedient to God’s call on their life.

In 2004, the Session at Crossroads gave Dawn Fuchs the go-ahead to start a Christian preschool that would be a safe, clean, and loving environment in which to bring their children. A place where they would know how much they are loved and where exciting opportunities for growth and learning would be provided. Prayers were lifted up that God would send dedicated teachers and the children needed to get started. God answered the prayers by providing amazing teachers over the years as well as growing the ministry from serving 20 families in the beginning to now becoming an outreach ministry that serves 32 families from Ozaukee, Washington and Milwaukee counties. God called me to be on His team as the Director of Preschool in 2005, and to be able to watch how His ministry has transformed the lives of the children, parents, teachers and me has been a true blessing.

Our preschool philosophy is to focus on developing the whole child. As a result, we have expanded our curriculum over the years to include a Music Class, the Handwriting Without Tears Program, a Lunch Bunch Program and a Nature and Science Program. We continue to encourage and support parent involvement as well as volunteer opportunities for members of Crossroads. What separates our program from a secular 4K program is that CCP is able to teach the most important learning component for children…the love of Jesus Christ through Bible stories, Scripture memorization, songs, prayer, and most of all, loving one another.

Thank you for 10 years of partnering with Crossroads Christian Preschool. Many families have been richly blessed because of the dedication of excellent teachers supported by a community of committed believers who value children. God has been our number one teacher; and we give Him the honor and glory for growing this beautiful ministry. Submitted by Maureen Leurquin, Director of Crossroads Christian Preschool

2015–2016 Preschool Registration will begin in December. Crossroads members and past and present Crossroads Preschool families have priority over the community through January 23. The programs fill up fast and are typically full by February. If you would like to learn more about this special program and/or schedule a private tour, please contact Maureen Leurquin, Director of Preschool, at 262-242-1670 or by email at maureen.leurquin@crossroadspres.org.

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Adult Ministry

Sunday Morning

November – No classes November 16 due to Great Getaway

Homebuilders November 9: Pam Olsen presents “Love and Logic,” November 23: Pastor Michelle Henrichs presents “Celebrating Advent in the Home.”

New BelieversNovember 2–23: “The Story.” God goes to great lengths to rescue lost and hurting people. That is what “The Story” is all about. Learn more about the story of the Bible - God’s great love affair with humanity. Led by Dave Sass, Marty Jarvi and Vicki Gresham.

Contemporary IssuesNovember 2–23: “The Skeptical Christian.” Do you have trouble reconciling the Bible with what is happening today? Do you have nagging questions you want answered? Bring these questions to this class. Led by Chris Spotts.

Advent – “Hope Lives Here.” New! Combined adult class during Advent only. Three prophets will be visiting the class and sharing their messages of hope.November 30: “Source of Hope.” Facilitated by Randy Frank with special guest Jeremiah. (Meets in Fireside Lounge)December 7: “Power of Hope.” Facilitated by TBA with special guest Isaiah. (In CLC)December 14: “Share Our Hope.” Facilitated by Chris Spotts with special guest Micah. (In CLC)

January Classes Resume January 18 – February 15

Biblical Studies– Discussion of “Great is Thy Faithfulness — a devotional based on the Psalms” by Rev. Randy Frank. How to deal with challenges and changes in life.

Homebuilders– Continued discussion of parenting and marriage issues with guest leaders

Evangelism– This is a new class which empowers and equips all to reach out to people who do not know God. By hearing someone’s story, and sharing our own, we will seek to discern and respond to God’s promptings as we build authentic relationships with others. Facilitated by Dave and Melissa Carpenter.

Mid - Week Classes

Pastor’s Bible Study — Wednesday 10:00–11:00 a.m. in the CLC

First Steps — 10 week, one-on-one discipleship with a trainer/mentor. Contact Nancy Disabato at 262-241-8482 or nancy.disabato@gmail.com

Life Groups — Small groups that meet weekly at church, members’ homes or coffee shops that develop deeper relationships with Christ and with each other. You will have a chance to sign up again for these life changing groups in January. Questions, contact Dawn Fuchs fuchs.dawne@gmail.com

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Wednesday Evening

6:00 – 7:30 p.m. in the CLC 5:00 p.m. dinner optional

Fall – Alpha Class ends November 19Winter – Bible Study starts January 14, 2015

No Regrets Conference Comes to Crossroads

For the first time in the 20-year history of the conference, the No Regrets Men’s Conference will be coming to Crossroads on Saturday, February 7, 2015. The theme of this year’s conference is “Live Free” as taken from John 8:36, “So if the Son sets you free you will be free indeed.” This is a one-day event starting at 8:00 a.m. and running until 4:00 p.m.

Originating from Elmbrook Church in Waukesha, Crossroads will be a remote host site via live streaming in high definition video. Accompanied by live music and six platform speakers including Pete Briscoe, Steve Farrar, Bryan Loritts, and Steve Sonderman, this internationally acclaimed men’s conference “transforms men’s lives by empowering them to walk in loving, trusting obedience of Jesus Christ.”

Due to the popularity of No Regrets, Elmbrook cannot accommodate all those wishing to attend and limits the number of on-site tickets. By simulcasting the event to locations like Crossroads, we join with thousands of men around the world to enjoy a day of fellowship, exploration and discovery.

Reservations will be taken at Crossroads after November 15, 2014. Stay tuned for ticketing information. Men, mark your calendars now to attend this conference. Attendance is open to the public and one of Crossroads’ famous luncheons will be served. Plan to bring a friend for one of the most inspiring, talked about events of the year. Contact: Rich Longabaugh for additional information RJLongabaugh@hotmail.com.

Adult Discipleship

The fall session for Adult Discipleship offered a lot of choices for people to find a place where they can plug in to study, discuss and enjoy fellowship. We will continue some of the classes while others will take a sabbatical as we offer some new options. Come to Adult Discipleship classes to find your place at the family table!

Special EventBook Signing

by Rev. Randy Frank

“Great is Thy Faithfulness – A Devotional based on the

Psalms”How to deal with challenges

and changes in lifeSundays, January 4 and 11

Library News

New books available in the church library plus Randy Frank’s book listed above:• “Rock Bottom is a Beautiful Place” by Diane Cunningham.

Testimonies of triumph; includes a chapter by E.J. Buhrke.• “When a Woman Finds Her Voice” by JoAnn Fore. A

guide for a journey that leads to freedom and purpose.• “Still Life with Bread Crumbs” by Anna Quindlen. A

novel that captures both the beauty and fragility of family life.

• “The Gift of Years” by Joan Chittister. A look at the many dimensions of aging; purpose, concerns, struggles and surprises.

• Resource Book: “Message of the Qur’an” by Muhammad Asad, Islam’s holy book – an educational resource.

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Adult Ministry

YTD Offerings

$277,702

$46,048

$971,250

Sept. '14

Shortfall

Annual BudgetRemaining

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Crossroads Presbyterian ChurchFinancial Results: September 2014

Sept. ‘14 Prior MonthOfferings: Average Weekly Offerings $24,571 Weekly Offerings Needed for Budget $24,904 YTD Better (Worse) than budget - Month 9` $46,048 Operating Cash $203,109 $205,563 Joseph Fund $39,539 $46,609 Investing in Crossroads Future Fund $130,377 $132,633 Debt outstanding $630,693 $632,525

Crossroads Presbyterian ChurchFinancial Results: August 2014

Aug. ‘14 Prior MonthOfferings: Average Weekly Offerings $20,342 Weekly Offerings Needed for Budget $24,904

YTD Better (Worse) than budget - Month 8 $44,718 Operating Cash $205,563 $306,320 Joseph Fund $46,609 $46,263 Investing in Crossroads Future Fund $132,633 $136,737 Debt outstanding $632,525 $734.260

YTD Offerings

$179,416

$44,718

$1,070,865

Aug. '14

Shortfall

Annual BudgetRemaining

Administration/Finance Ministry

Mark your calendars!

Gracious Gifts Alternative Gift Market will be held on Sunday, December 7 and 14. Tables will be open in the narthex from 9:00 to 9:30 a.m. and again from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Gracious Gifts is a Christ-centered, gift-giving option that identifies the needs of both Crossroads’ mission partners and other organizations that are doing His work in the world. Simply select the organization and items from our form that you would like to donate towards, and use the special cards available to explain to those on your Christmas list what you’ve given in their honor.

Forms will be available in the narthex and on the Crossroads website by November 30. You may pay by cash or check. Contact Gail Tanner at 414-510-9976.

Wisconsin winters are known for being brutal and warm hats and gloves and snuggly mittens and scarves are a must. Because not everyone has these necessary items, we ask that you consider giving to the Mitten Tree this season. The tree will be in the narthex from November 16 – January 5 for donations. Our knitters have been hard at work, but any and all items are greatly appreciated. Items for men are the greatest need - especially waterproof gloves. Contact Janet Shahrokhi with questions at pshahrokhi@wi.rr.com or 913-963-7860.

Purchase a CD to show your support!

Crossroads is a mission partner with Living Waters for the World, a PCUSA mission initiative, which helped build a water purification plant at our mission site in Mexico in 2011. They have helped U.S. churches and other organizations build 655 active systems in 25 countries. What makes Living Waters for the World unique is the emphasis on sustainability. They educate trainers who then empower local personnel to build and maintain simple purification systems using an existing water source. Over 1800 people have gone through Clean Water U, their clean water education program, including Crossroads members Mike Corbett and Jay and Cathy Sanders.

Living Waters for the World emphasizes both health and spiritual education. As our Crossroads teams working in Mexico can testify to, the availability of clean water at a fraction of the cost is a powerful tool for evangelism. The water plants are micro enterprises that provide employment for the local people and generate enough income for wages, replacement parts and maintenance.

In an effort to support this mission organization Christmas CDs will be available for purchase in December in the narthex. Proceeds from the CD sale will support new plants, scholarships for locals to receive training, research, regional conferences, Clean Water U and continued development and matching of U.S. congregations with communities in need around the world. Presbyterian Women helped make this CD project possible and a portion of proceeds will also go to the PW Birthday Offering.

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Mission & Outreach Ministry

Mission & Outreach Ministry

A program of Prison Fellowship, reaches out to the children of inmates and their families with the love of Christ. This unique program provides an opportunity to share Christ’s love by helping to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the families of prisoners.

Project Angel Tree is a ministry that reaches out to the children of inmates and their families with the love of Christ. Through Project Angel Tree, you can help a child receive a gift on behalf

of his or her parent who is currently in prison. On the Sundays of November 9, 16 and 23, angels with each child’s name, age, and gift suggestions will be available on the Angel Tree in the narthex.

It is easy to participate. Select a paper angel(s) from the tree, write your name and phone number on the white slip of paper attached to the back of the angel (be sure to give the slip to an Angel Tree volunteer before you leave the area), then have fun shopping for your little angel. Please spend between $20–25. Bring the gift back to church either unwrapped or in a gift bag, with the paper angel attached, and place it under the tree.

Angel Tree gifts are due back to church by Sunday, November 30

Wrap it Up! Everyone is invited to our annual wrapping party on Sunday December 7 in the gym. We’ll need many hands to help wrap the 200+ angel tree gifts. Please join us after the 9:30 a.m. service or education hour to lend a hand.

Can you help deliver? Delivering gifts to Angel Tree children can be a wonderful experience. We have 34 Angel Tree families this year and need many volunteers to deliver the gifts to the children’s homes in Ozaukee or Milwaukee Counties. You decide with the family, the best date and time to deliver the gifts during the two weeks before Christmas. If you can help deliver gifts, please contact Joann Steidinger at 262-376-7666 or jsteidinger@wi.rr.com. Thank you.

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Missionary Prayers and Opportunities:Special prayers: In this joyful Advent season, please hold in your prayers our missionaries who may be celebrating Christmas far from home and who need our support as they work tirelessly to bring the peace of Christ to others: Shelvis and Nancy Smith Mather, Mark and Becky Leighton, Jacobo and Omega Caamal, Nancy McGaughey, Martha Somers, and Gary and Lori McAfee.

Young Adult Volunteers: If you are 18–30 and feel called to short term mission work, please explore what PCUSA has to offer through its Young Adult Volunteer program. At sites around the world as well as in the U.S., cohorts of YAVS work in communities for six month assignments doing a variety of ministries. Applications for international placements are due by February 1. Visit the PCUSA website for more information, www.pcusa.org.

“When I opened that box . . . my kids were jumping up and down and hugging me . . . I said, ‘There really is someone that cares for us!’” — Mother of Angel Tree children

Youth Ministry

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2015–2016 Confirmation

Students currently in grade 8 are invited to participate in the 2015–2016 Confirmation class. This is a year-long course that uses the re:form Confirmation curriculum to help students grapple with issues of faith and theology. The course will run from January 2015 to January 2016.

The year-long format is designed to bridge the gap between the 8th and 9th grades and help our middle schoolers make the transition into high school. A Confirmation Parent/Student Orientation will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2014 from 8:30–9:15 a.m. in the Fireside Lounge. You must attend this meeting for your child to be in the Confirmation program at Crossroads. Please return your response card or contact Victor Vilar at 262-242-1670 or victor.vilar@crossroadspres.org.

Christmas Dream Boxes

On Wednesday, November 19, high school students will pack shoe boxes filled with Christmas gifts for kids at Pine Ridge Reservation. You can help by shopping for a specific age group (males and females ages 1–3, 4–6, 7–8, 10–12, 13–16) and bringing $5 to cover the cost of shipping. Please bring your donations on November 19 and we will pack the boxes during our youth group time.

For gift item ideas and a list of non-appropriate items visit http://www.waeministries.com/get-involved/christmas-dream-box. Contact: Victor Vilar at 262-242-1670 or victor.vilar@crossroadspres.org.

Mission OpportunitiesHope House—November 22, 9:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m.Stock food pantry and help distribute food to clients. Bring some money for Kopp’s Custard on the way home.Agape—November 25 and December 27, 4:30–7:30 p.m.Serve dinner prepared by other Crossroads folks. Bring money to stop for dinner or ice cream at Culvers on the way home.Contact: Tim Andersen at t.andersen@sbcglobal.net or 414-429-8781

Sundays

Grades 6-7 —Upper Level Room 3 This year students in grades 6 and 7 are studying characters of the Old Testament using the Student Life Bible Study.

Grade 8—Upper Level Room 5Students currently in grade 8 meet this fall to study “Jesus Centered Life” and “Tough Stuff.” Confirmation for current 8th graders will begin in January 2015, continue through the fall of grade 9, and conclude in January 2016.

Confirmation (grade 9)—Upper Level Rooms 6, 7, 8 November 9: Talk about Statements of Faith (first draft)November 16: No class (complete Statements of Faith)November 23: What’s so great about doing things decently and in order?November 30: Are we reformed or reforming?December 7: Meet with SessionDecember 14: Practice Worship Service

High School—Café Koinonia upstairs“Love Does: Discover A Secretly Incredible Life In An Ordinary Word.”— written by Bob Goff

Crossroads on Wednesdays (Y-COW)

Meet in Great Room and Fireside Lounge

Middle School: 6:00–7:30 p.m.

November 5, 12 & 19 Message NightsNovember 26: No Y-COW (Thanksgiving Break)December 3: God the SonDecember 10: God the Holy SpiritDecember 17: Christmas Party

High School: 7:15–8:45 p.m.November 5: Worship Night— SanctuaryNovember 12: Dealing with Pains & Struggles November 19: Mission Night—Pine Ridge Dream BoxesNovember 26: No Y-COW (Thanksgiving Break)December 3: Mission Night—Shopping for Pine RidgeDecember 10: Growing on Your OwnDecember 17: Christmas Party

Upcoming Events...

January 23–25: High School Winter RetreatFebruary 6–8: Middle School Winter RetreatMarch 6–7: Blink Retreat Dance and Retreat

November 30 is the date for Crossroad’s annual welcoming of Advent. Mark your calendars and invite your friends as we begin this Advent season. We will gather at noon in the Christian Life Center to enjoy brunch, music and speaker Elizabeth Murphy. Murphy is a passionate encourager of women who uses her gifts of hospitality and humor to welcome audiences into her life’s living room. Each of her messages is laced with a dose of reality, personal authenticity, a unique portfolio of compassion and a warm sense of humor.

Many of us live our lives as if we are on a wild ride all the time making the peace we so desire impossible to find. This problem isn’t new! It’s the same struggle three sets of characters faced in the ancient story of the Magi. As you take a fresh look at this very familiar story, you’ll find that you are not like any one character all the time, but you are like all of them sometimes. And you’ll discover that this story is about so much more than Christmas — it’s the story of a road trip, leading to real worship. This is the story of people who ended up on a life-changing journey to Jesus.

Registration for this event will be in the narthex on November 9 and 16, or sign up at the Info Window. Our mission component will support a new program at Crossroads: Family Promise…details to follow at registration. The cost is $10. Questions? Contact Barb Janssen 262-377-1681. If you are interested in being a hostess for a table of eight, please call Kathy Gwidt at 262-242-1964.

Congregational Care

Membership Class

Sundays, January 18 – February 8

Are you interested in becoming a member of Crossroads? Do you have a student in our youth activities or Confirmation? Would you like to know more about Crossroads?

Membership Class will begin Sunday, January 18, and continues January 25, February 1 and 8. It will be held in the CLC (Christian Life Center) along with other Adult Education classes from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. (between worship services).

Over these four Sundays we’ll discuss what it means to be Christian…what Presbyterian means…what membership at Crossroads looks like…how to get involved in the life of the church...and you’ll meet and hear from our ministers and other church leaders!

Your participation doesn’t obligate you to become a member, however, the invitation will be extended. Contact Karen Barnes at karen.barnes@crossroadspres.org.

Advent BrunchSunday, November 30 at Noon

“Follow the Star”

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Can we, are we, following the star to Jesus?

Christmas Flowers Let’s honor those we love by remembering those who need our love. This is the time of year that we at Crossroads remember our hospitalized, grieving and homebound friends with a lovely plant. If you wish to contribute to this ministry, please fill out the lower portion of this form and return it with your payment of $15 (cost per remembrance) to the Info Window Sunday, November 30 to December 17. Your donation will be made in honor of, or in memory of your loved one.

Cash amount $_________ Check #_________ (made out to Crossroads)

Church envelope #_________ (for office use)

Your name (please print)________________________________________________________________

In memory of (please print)______________________________________________________________

In honor of (please print)________________________________________________________________

A list of names of those remembered with this gift will be printed in our Christmas bulletin.

Questions? Contact: Karen Taylor at 262-242-9439