August 12, 2018

Kinderhook Reformed Church, Sunday, August 12, 2018

 “To Know Christ and to Make Him Known”

Rev. Rudolph Visser, Pastor

Welcome visitors! Please fill out a visitor’s pew card and place it in the offering plate.

 

9:00 A.M.  CELEBRATION OF WORSHIP

Following worship, all are invited for refreshment and fellowship at the lemonade stand hosted by Nancy Call outside on the front lawn. 

Thanks to today’s ushers, Ted Call, Jerry Flansburg, and Glenn Warren.

Thanks to today’s greeters, Stacey & Jean Hurst.

Nursery facility available downstairs.

 

  Prelude                                     Before The Throne of God Above                                         Selah

  Welcome, Announcements

  Drawing Near to God

  Call to Worship  (Responsive) 

O God who is beyond our reasoning, accept us as we are. 

       Take our faith as it is, and move us to higher places. 

Teach us the truth, that we might be able to call on you in truth. 

       O God of living water, O Bread of Life, we are hungry. We are thirsty. 

Quench our thirst now, that our lips might sing your praise. 

       Fill our emptiness now, that our lives might show your love. 

*Opening Hymn of Assurance  (Screen)                                       A Mighty Fortress Is Our God

 

Allowing God to Shape Us

  Call to Submission 

Romans 6:13 says,  “. . . offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.” Let us submit ourselves to him, our righteous God, and declare our unrighteousness and dependence on him. 

  Hymn of Submission  (Screen)                                                      I Need The, Lord I Need Thee

  Assurance of God's Forgiveness and Love  (Responsive)   

2 Corinthians 6:2 says, “In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you. I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” Brothers and sisters, know that your God has heard and seen your heart.

       Thank God, for in Christ Jesus we are made righteous and are redeemed. 

       Hallelujah! Amen.

 

Coming Before God’s Open Word

  Prayer for Illumination

  Scripture                                                                                                                 John 6:35, 41-51

  Message                                                                                           “Challenging Personal Faith”

  Interpreting God's Word Together and Testimonials 

  Prayer of Thanks

  Silent Prayer for Those Seeking to Acknowledge Christ as Their Savior:

"Dear Jesus, I confess that I'm a sinner, and not right with you. I repent and ask forgiveness.  I believe that you died on the cross to take my punishment and to pay the price for my sins.  I believe that you rose from death to give me new life. Wash me clean from all sin, shame, and guilt, and come into my heart as my Lord and Savior.  In your name I pray.  Amen."

  Celebrating God, His Care, and His Abundance

  Offering/Offertory                              Love Crucified Arose                                   Michael Card 

*Doxology #809                                                          Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow

*Offertory Prayer  (Unison)    

God of grace, your limitless love gave us everything in Jesus, and through belief in him, you offer us life in your kingdom. Accept our gifts, but as we give, warm and soften our hearts, and lead us into lives which reflect your generosity. Amen.

  Prayers and Praises

*Hymn  (Screen)                                                                                                All glory Be to Christ 

*Benediction, Blessing, and Response Hymn                  My Friends May You Grow in Grace 

My friends, may you grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior.

My friends, may you grow in grace, and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

 To God be the glory, now and forever, now and forever, amen. (2x) 

  Postlude                                                      El Shaddai                                               Michael Card

 

STEWARDSHIP UPDATE

        Praise God, our offering last Sunday was $4,016, several hundred dollars above the $3,200 needed weekly to cover KRC’s daily operating expense. As a result, our current shortfall has been reduced to just under $600!

 Income-to-date: $102,364 - Expenses-to-date: $102,944

Stewardship Ministry asks that everyone prayerfully consider how they might adjust their giving so we can avoid falling further behind and having to tap into our very limited reserves to meet budgetary obligations.

       Many thanks to those who have recently made substantial gifts toward bringing our income into line with expenses, and to our regular contributors who have “doubled up” on their giving to cover the Sundays they missed. 

Inspired by the abundance with which the Lord has blessed us,

 let us continue, as his faithful stewards, to be ever mindful of the need

 to maintain a weekly offering sufficient to cover our commitments.

 

 

Our new church family directories have arrived and are on the back table!  If you had pictures taken, please pick up your free directory and check your name off the list.  If you did not have pictures taken, you are welcome to take a copy without charge, but if you are able, free-will donations designated “Directory” would be much appreciated and may be dropped into the offering plate to help cover printing costs.                                                                            

 

Each member’s share of this year’s classis assessment has been set at $94.68 (Up $6.18 from last year).  All who are able to do so are encouraged to offer, over and above regular giving, their share of this support.  The full share does not have to be given at one time, but may be given in as many increments as are convenient. If offered weekly, that’s about $4.73 per week for the remaining weeks (20) in this year. Please clearly designate all contributions, “Classis Assessment.”

 

HAPPY AUGUST BIRTHDAY!

Sara Schubert (3rd), Jim Dunham (7th), Carly Rippel (13th), 

 Dolly Petith (18th), Suzy Nieman (27th,), Jean Hurst (27th) 

Melissa Welcome (28th), Thomas Carroll (28th), Erika Johnson (31st)  

 

LOOKING AHEAD

~ANNUAL RISE AGAINST HUNGER MEAL PACKAGING EVENT SEPTEMBER 8~   

Dear KRC Family and Friends:                                                                      

       I am writing to you today to invite you to be part of a life-giving event, our 4th annual Rise against Hunger meal packaging event SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018, FROM NOON TO 3 PM AT THE FORMER MARTIN H GLYNN SCHOOL BUILDING, CHURCH STREET, VALATIE.  You may have participated in some fashion in the past, or maybe this is the first time you are hearing about it. 

       This multi-generational event has packaged more than 50,000 meals over the years, and we will package another 20,000 or more this year. We have set a goal of $5,800 to pay for all those meals.  That’s right, for about 29¢ we are able to feed a hungry person!  These simple rice, vitamin, soy, and dried vegetable meals are packaged and then sent off to feed a family of six somewhere in the world, including in our own country when disaster strikes.

       In addition, we have watched as members of our community come together to package these life-giving meals, and we have seen the friendships made, the laughter, and the energy that grows around the tables as everyone works with a common goal of helping those in need.  It is truly a life-giving and transforming ministry, and I invite you to be part of it.        

       There are three ways you can become involved, and each is vital to the success of this ministry:

·       Pray for those who are hungry around the world and for those who will come and pack meals on September 8. 

·       Make a donation.  $8.70 feeds someone for a month. $105.85 provides someone with food for a year!  All donations will make a difference.  We thank you in advance for any monetary donation you can provide. Checks can be mailed to Kinderhook Reformed Church with RAH in the memo line, or look for donation jars around town.  To allow us to plan properly, please mail in any donations by August 31.  

·       JOIN US ON SEPTEMBER 8TH AT THE FORMER MARTIN H GLYNN SCHOOL GYMNASIUM to package the meals and experience this life-giving opportunity for yourself!  We will be there from noon until we finish around 3 pm.  You’re welcome to help with set-up at 11 am or to stay after 3 pm for cleanup as well. Wear a hat (unless you love hair nets!) and please RSVP to let us know you’re coming.

You can use this link to register and donate online:

https://shn.secure.force.com/events/homepage?id=701f1000002pCYGAA2

Make it a family outing, invite friends and neighbors, and encourage your church or organization to donate toward our goal and to put a packing team together.  Remember, many hands make light the work.  We need at least 100 volunteers to make this event happen! My prayer is that you will help us do that.  In advance, I thank you for your support in this ministry.

Peace,

Pastor Rudy Visser

 

REMEMBER TO PRAY FOR

• those who do not know Christ or who are struggling in their faith journey. Pray also that God will provide opportunities for us to witness for Jesus, and give us the courage and winsome words needed to make the most of these opportunities.

• Pastor Rudy, as he fulfills his ministerial duties.

• KRC ministries, programs & projects, and those planning & administering them as they seek new directions and God’s wisdom and blessing in moving our church toward a greater and more effective impact on our surrounding communities: KRC’s Consistory, especially newly installed officers, Jane Deane, Jean Hacker; Susan Patterson, and Deborah Spaulding; KRC’s administrative ministries; KRC’s Youth Group; Sunday School; VBS 2018; KRC’s small group ministries and Bible studies; Community Prayer Group; 1st Friday Free Community Dinner; and other outreach programs. 

• our state, national, and world leaders, especially President Donald Trump and all of the government officials now in office, that God will grant them the leadership skills, wisdom, and the personal protection needed to govern effectively and safely. 

• our military men & women, their families, and friends, that they may know God’s presence, protection, and peace. 

• victims world-wide suffering natural and other hardships and tragedies; those suffering economic instability; poverty, hunger, and poor health; political oppression, unrest, war, displacement, gun violence, and terrorism.

• families and friends grieving the loss of loved ones. those who, even after many years, still hurt from the loss of loved ones.

• reassurance, peace, and dignity for those nearing the close of this life.

• Alan Smith, brother of Jane Deane, who suffered a stroke recently.  

• Christopher Dick, Noreen's son, recovering from recent extensive repair surgery on his right elbow. 

• others awaiting test results or surgery; recovering from surgery, injury, or illness; or chronically ill: Jane Stutzman; Sal; George Graham; Fred Borrelli, Merrill Johnson. 

• those battling or recovering from cancer or in hospice care: Dave Ennis and daughter, Kara; 12-year-old Issy Kwei; Bill Nieman; Ben Kissel; Carol, future daughter-in-law of Erika & Merrill Johnson; Freya, Patti Varga’s aunt; Friend of Erika Johnson; Judy Alvarez; Charles Roppolo; Terri; Michael, brother of Mary Jane Haywood; Michael; Don Morse; Jill; J.B.; Jen; Bill, Janet Smith's brother; Ronny; Carol Nel; Jeff Peter; Mark; Ann; Steve.

• residence-bound KRC family, George Clowe, and those caring for the elderly, displaced, disabled, or ill.

• those who are traveling, especially Paul and Joan Clause and family.

• those facing challenges, stressful circumstances, and difficult decisions: Vickie Metzger, 98, Nancy Baker's mother; Brianna; our students as they deal with the challenges facing them at the close of this school year, including college and career choices, and job searches; Greg Clause Jr.; the epidemic of life-threatening addictions. Libby Little-Saxton, working with Afghan refugees.

 

Regular updates are needed on the progress or condition of all individuals on our prayer and praise lists, especially those whose names are in bold type.  Please forward this information, as well as new praise/prayer requests, to krc@fairpoint.net or call 859-4158.  

 

Outreach Ministry is asking that those who submit a prayer request to KRC’s family and friends also inform us if they know of any additional material or physical needs, beyond the initial prayer request, that we might be able to meet. We would love the opportunity to engage with those in need of prayer in tangible ways as well, such as with meals, emergency monies, a ride, a listening ear, a visit, childcare - to name a few. 

 

 REMEMBER TO THANK & PRAISE GOD FOR

• Pastor Rudy Visser, our Spirit-filled minister and leader of vision, and for the Christ-centered messages God gives to Pastor each and every Sunday for the spiritual nourishment and growth of our church family.  

• the inspirational ministries of our guest preachers, Perry Jones, Tom McCrossan, John Bowen, Derek DeJager, and others who lead KRC worship from time to time.

• the good report that Jane Stutzman, sister of Paul Clause, has been transferred to rehab following hip surgery and 8 blood transfusions to stabilize her blood count.  She is in good spirits, feeling much better, and ready to assist in her recovery.  

• those men and women who have served or are now serving our country, and those who have sacrificed their wellbeing and lives for the peace & liberty we enjoy.

• all those of KRC's family and friends who volunteer their time, talent, and energy so generously and so selflessly to the various ministries and programs of our church, and who often do this quietly behind-the-scenes with little notice or recognition.

 

PLEASE KEEP IN YOUR PRAYERS OUR MISSIONS AND MISSIONARIES

Dave and Char Alexander, RCA missionaries, Taiwan;

Alight Pregnancy Center, Hudson

Perry Jones and Capital City Rescue Mission, Albany 

Compassion International, KRC-Sponsored Child, Evelin Chuquinia, 19

Alex and Fran Knauss, Trans-World Radio    

Maureen Menard, Youth with a Mission

The Silvas, RCA missionaries, Hungary

Brian and Bea Post, Wycliffe Bible Translators

Seth and Melissa Rogati, missionaries, Young Life Ministry, St. Thomas

Betty Ann Stedwell, Christar International Mission

PLEASE TAKE A FEW MOMENTS TO READ THE THANK-YOU NOTES ON THE MISSIONS BULLETIN BOARD IN THE FELLOWSHIP ROOM FROM SOME OF OUR MISSIONARIES.

 

EMAIL, WEBSITE,  AND FAX INFORMATION  

Email Address – krc@fairpoint.net

Website Address – kinderhookreformedchurch.com

Rev. Rudy is available at his church office

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings.

Please call ahead for an appointment. 

Evenings are set aside for meetings, visitations, and counseling.

For immediate assistance at any time, call 518-859-4158.

Church Phone   518-758-6401                Church Fax   1-518-758-6402

 

 

KRC 2018 CONSISTORY

Pastor Rev. Rudy Visser, President of Consistory

                                                                Deacons

  Noreen Dick – ’18   Church Family. . . . . . . .     518-758-6640  noreend122@twc.com 

  Susan Patterson – ’19  Property. . . . . . . . . .   518-755-4909  patterss@strose.edu

  Beth Anne Rippel – ’18  Stewardship. . . . . . 518-392-5044  barippel@yahoo.com

  Deborah Spaulding – ’19  Outreach. . . . . . .   518-758-7316  ber00519@fairpoint.net  

                                                                  Elders

  Jane Deane – ’19  Christian Ed., Cemetery. . 518-758-7051  jdeane1943@gmail.com 

  Jean Hacker – ’19  Outreach . . . . . . . . . . . . . 518-758-9412  jch9412@aol.com 

  Merrill Johnson – ’18   Worship. . . . . . . . . . . 518-828-6726  docjohnson36@gmail.com

  Dawn Van Buren – ’18  Consistory Vice-President, Cemetery, Pastoral Relations,        

                                             Personnel. . . . . . . . .  518-758-7564  dawnandleo@fairpoint.net 

 

Clerk of Consistory

Patti Varga – 518-755-3054  patvarga66@gmail.com

 

 KRC TREASURER

Derick LaTorre – 518-376-1882  derick.latorre@gmail.com

KRC STAFF

            KRC Office Manager                          KRC Office Assistant

     Paul Clause – 518-859-4158         Courtney Wood – 518-852-7172

                   

                            KRC Sexton                            KRC Cemetery Supervisor         

     Steven Green – 518-505-4918         Greg Clause – 518-369-8472

COMING EVENTS

Today, August 12

           9:00 am Worship Service

Mon, August  13  

    6:30 pm  Consistory meets

Wed, August  15 

          7:00 pm Bible Study w/Jean Hacker

Thur, August 16 

           9:00 am  Small Group Bible study @KRC

Group continues its study, The Holy Spirit –  Please join us!

          10:00 am  Community Prayer Group @KRC8

Sun, August 19

           9:00 am Worship Service

Mon – Fri  August 20 – 24

           9:00 – Noon  Vacation Bible School - Shipwrecked – Rescued by Jesus

Mon, August 27  

    6:30 pm  Outreach Ministry meets

Sat, September  8

          Noon – 3 pm  Rise Against Hunger meal-packaging event, 

                  Gymnasium, former M H Glynn School, Church Street, Valatie

 

Servers Next Sunday, August 19, 2018

Ushers: Derick LaTorre, Chris Laurie, and Steve Shpur

Greeter(s): Donna Flansburg

 

   Sermon Notes

  “Challenging Personal Faith”

John 6:35, 41-51