July 31,2010


Kinderhook Reformed Church Worship Service
Route 9 & Church Street, Kinderhook, NY
10:00 a.m. July 31, 2011
“To Know Christ and to Make Him Known”

Rev. Rudy Visser, Pastor

A WARM WELCOME TO VISITORS
You are invited to sign our Guest Book at the church entrance and to fill out a pew card and place it in the offering plate.  We would like to get to know you better, and we invite you to fellowship with us and enjoy refreshments served by Sara Hartman at our Lemonade Stand on the front lawn of the church following today’s Worship Service.

Ushers: Dave Ennis, Will Ferguson, Bob and Josh Horn

Greeter(s): Virginia Rothermel and Family

Preschool Nursery is available downstairs, Elize Visser supervising.

Flowers today are from the garden of Dawn Van Buren.

Order of Worship
  PRELUDE
  WELCOME, SILENT PRAYER, and PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
  VOTUM and GOD’S GREETING

God’s Children’s Approach

  CALL TO WORSHIP  (Responsive)  Based on 1 Samuel 2
There is no Holy One like the Lord,
      no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God.
You clothe those who stumble with strength.
      The Lord raises up the poor from the dust;
      he lifts the needy from the ashes,
For the pillars of the earth are the Lord’s.
      He establishes for his children a seat with princes
      and gives them a seat of honor.
There is no Holy One like the Lord,
      no one besides you, for you are my Rock and my Salvation.

*HYMN OF PRAISE #60                                                         Great Is Thy Faithfulness     
  INVOCATION
  CALL TO  CONFESSION  (Responsively)  Psalm 23 and John 10
The Lord is my shepherd, what does that mean?
      Our God watches over us and keeps us safe.
The Lord is my shepherd, what does that mean?
      First, as the Good Shepherd, he laid down his life for His sheep;
      and secondly, his sheep know his voice and follow him.
Let us confess to our God our misplaced sense of security,
our mistrust, and our inaction.
       PRAYER OF CONFESSION (Unison)  from Isaiah 53:6, 55:8, and Hebrews 2:1
O most gracious and loving God, we know that you are our shepherd; but like sheep, even we as believers have a natural tendency to wander off and get lost.  Indeed, “We are all, like sheep that have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way”.  It is in our nature to drift away, to reject God, and to break your commandments.
[Moment of Reflection]

Look upon your children, Lord.
And pardon our foolish and sinful efforts to gain security, status, and love. Grant us your forgiveness and a quiet understanding that you know what is best for us. We know that your thoughts are not our thoughts, neither are our ways your ways, O sovereign God.  Instill within us, your children, a deep sense of trusting you and your ways, your gifts and your promises.  Amen.              
  ASSURANCE OF PARDON  1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  In Jesus Christ we are forgiven!
Alleluia! Amen.
  SOLO, Leigh Ann (Haber) Hinton                                          Hear My Cry, O God
God’s Opened Word
  PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
  SCRIPTURE LESSON                                                               Isaiah 55:1-5 (p. 524)
  MESSAGE                                                                “Junk Food vs. Whole Wheat”
  PRAYER OF BLESSING
God’s Children Celebrating Him

  PRESENTATION OF OUR TITHES and OFFERINGS/OFFERTORY
*DOXOLOGY and OFFERTORY PRAYER  (Unison)
Holy God, it is with joy that we respond to your presence in our lives. We ask that you receive these gifts and offerings as our “thank you.” Thank you for choosing us as your own. Thank you for guiding and protecting us through life’s storms. Thank you for the privilege of serving you. Thank you for your love. Amen 
  ANNOUNCEMENTS CONCERNING THE FAMILY OF GOD
  PASTORAL PRAYER and THE LORD’S PRAYER
*HYMN #527                                                                                          Trust in the Lord 
Leader: Leigh Ann Hinton, Response: Congregation
*BENEDICTION and BLESSING
*HYMN OF RESPONSE – 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.
To God be the glory, now and forever, now and forever, amen.
  POSTLUDE

Many thanks to our guest soloist today, Leigh Ann Hinton.  Leigh Ann is the daughter of Floyd and Kay Haber, who attended KRC for a number of years while Floyd served as choir director.

The Kinderhook Reformed Church Family wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude to Frank Vosburgh for his $1,200 gift to pay for the services of an organist on up to 12 separate occasions over the next several months.  If others would like to follow Frank’s lead in supporting an organ ministry for our Worship services, additional gifts clearly designated for this purpose would be most appreciated.  

TO THOSE IN THE KRC FAMILY CELEBRATING JULY BIRTHDAYS:
Ed Arnold, Jeff Barmen, Will Ferguson, Mid Glass, Sally Heimroth, Haley Hickman, Patrice Lyons, Jay Rippel, Virginia Rothermel,
Ted Tuttle, Al Van Alstyne, Glenn Warren, Carien Zietsman.  


Contribution Statements for 1-1-2011 through 6-30-2011 are now available for pick-up at the back table.  Envelopes are alphabetical.

The Lemonade Stand ministry is still in need of one volunteer for August 21st - please contact Sally Heimroth, 784-3164, if you are able to serve.


As we approach the 2012 celebration of Kinderhook Reformed Church’s 300 years in ministry, you are invited to share your personal memories of the church and her journey so they can be included in the 300th-year celebratory book now being researched for publication. Author Geoff Benton will be in the KRC Fellowship room Wednesday, August 10, from 6 - 8 p.m., and Sunday, August 14, from 6 - 8 p.m., to record your stories, experiences, and vignettes, and you are encouraged to attend and participate in one of these sessions. Light refreshments will be served.  

Note of Appreciation from Brian and Bea Post
Missionaries with Wycliffe Bible Translators

“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you . . .because of your partnership in the Gospel from the first day until now.”  Philippians 1:3, 5
Dear Pastor Visser, Barbara Vosburgh, & Kinderhook Reformed Church family,
     Brian and I received word through Wycliffe’s donor relations department in Orlando that it has become necessary for the church to make some adjustments in your giving for the current financial year.  Brian and I want to thank you for taking the time to let us know of the change and for the gift of your partnership with us in Bible translation ministry for the past 20 years. We value your significant ministry to us and along with us, and thank you for your ongoing commitment to prayer for the Bibleless peoples of the world as we continue our service together.  Thank you also for your ongoing financial support at the level God directs.  It is our prayer that your needs will also be met, that one day your beautiful organ will again lead in worship, and the costs of maintaining your lovely and historic building will be provided for the joy of your spiritual family and the glory of God.  We are humbled by your sacrifice on our behalf.  May He who supplies ”seed to the sower and bread for food both supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.” (2 Cor. 9)            
                           With heartfelt appreciation, Brian and Bea – Philippians 4:4-7

~ COMMUNITY EVENTS ~
EMERGENCY KIT WORKSHOP
The Columbia County Department of Health, in cooperation with the American Red Cross, is offering a FREE opportunity August 9th to “Make a Plan, Make a Kit, and Be Informed” in case of emergency or disaster. Additional information is available on the back table.
CLOTHING BARN
The North Chatham United Methodist Church’s Clothing Barn, offering good, used clothing at reasonable prices, is open the second and fourth Saturday of each month through September. It will close with the Lord’s Acre Auction on October 15.  Donations of good used clothing are always welcome – call 766-3925 for information.
MINI-MARKET AND CHICKEN BARBECUE
The Reformed Church of Schodack at Muitzeskill, located at the junction of Muitzeskill Road and Schodack Landing Road in the Town of Schodack, is holding its Annual Mini-Market and Chicken Barbecue Saturday, August 13. The Mini-Market opens at 9:00 a.m., and the Barbecue ($10.00 donation for adults, $5.00 for children under 12) will be served from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on a first-come, first- served basis. (Take-out is available.) 
 
FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK
Funeral for a Church
     On Sunday March 13, 2011, the Leeds Reformed Church (1734) closed its doors for good. The Classis of Columbia-Greene celebrated with the few remaining members its highs and lows in ministry at a closing service on Tuesday, June 28. Indeed it was the funeral of a Church and a sad, sad experience! The decline of a church in spirit as well as attendance does not happen suddenly. It is a gradual process, influenced by several factors over a period of time. The signs of a dying church can be many and varied, but according to studies done by the guys at churchleaderinsights.com, they usually fall into one of the following categories discussed below.
ATTITUDE
     The attitude about the priorities of the church can cause a church to die spiritually. Everyone need not agree on specifics, but if there is a consensus on the fundamental purpose of the church, attitudes will tend to remain upbeat. Dissenters, however, can become negative if they think their opinions are not valued. This negativity can start the decline.
ACRIMONY
     Once attitudes take shape, cliques will form that will try to influence others into thinking their way or taking a stand on issues ranging from style of worship, music, and leadership positions, to staffing requirements. If members cannot listen to each other and respect everyone else's points of view, resentment builds and relationships become strained. This leads to confrontation and angry words.
AMBIVALENCE
     When differing groups side against each other, ambivalence can take over. Members who are undecided on an issue, or those who may be considering joining the church, will become uneasy in the midst of turmoil. This tension-filled atmosphere among nervous congregants is another sign that a church is going in the wrong direction.
APATHY     
     Apathy hurts the growth of a church. When members are comfortable with the long-held customs of worship and don't want to be a part of positive changes, the church will stagnate spiritually and numerically. This attitude can be seen in churches that have little or no outreach to people of differing cultures, races, and values. For many people, their church is a place of solace and a haven for them and people like them.
ATTENDANCE
     A decline in attendance results when the majority of people are uncomfortable worshipping in their church because of personality conflicts, policies and procedures, or exclusionary groups. When people stop coming, the lack of interest in ministry and missions affects the influence of the church in the community. The church may still exist with some members, but it is "dying" or even "dead" to people on the outside --the very ones it was supposed to help.
      More than any of the signs just mentioned, I fear “Forgetting Why We Are a Church” the most!  But if we remember again why we are congregated and called, negative Attitude, Acrimony, Ambivalence, Apathy and declining Attendance will be absent. For “Remembering Why We Are a Church” necessarily means that we must constantly revisit the throne and therefore the presence of the Holy God. This, in turn, means that we will get to know Him better and better, and that we will sound and behave more and more like a people, a body, a congregation that is giving not only ear, but also mind and heart to Matthew 22:37-40 - which is a good place to be when you are in the “church business”!
     As you enjoy your summer, think about Him, talk to Him, love Him, and love and regard others and pray for them. To this we are called!
     Have a happy July!  
                                                                                                                        Pastor Rudy                                                                               


MANY THANKS AND TO THE KRC FAMILY FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE VALATIE FOOD PANTRY. The Pantry served 79 families for a total of 124 adults & 123 children in June. Non-perishable boxed/canned foods are always in demand, however the Pantry is currently overstocked on spaghetti and pasta. Collection containers may be found in the front and side entryways of the church for your food donations.

           
Remember to Pray for
• Those who do not know Christ, have turned their back on God, or are struggling in their faith
• KRC’s Consistory members and administrative ministries
• KRC programs & projects and those implementing and administering them: Natural Church Development; church restoration; KRC’s 300th birthday celebration
• Leaders and those attending KRC’s Vacation Bible School, Youth Group, Adult Bible Study; Community Prayer Group; small group ministry
• Our state and national leaders, that God will grant them the leadership skills, wisdom, and the personal protection needed to govern effectively and safely
• A speedy end to the violence and unrest in the Middle East
• Our missionaries and our children sponsored through Compassion or other agencies
• Families and friends grieving the loss of loved ones
• Those, especially children, suffering natural disaster, abuses of war and violence, exploitation, neglect, family hostility
• A full recovery from surgery for Al Austin following a motorcycle accident
• Rachael Beaudoin, 25, granddaughter of the Clauses, recovering from a tonsillectomy Tuesday
• Clare, recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease; pray also for Clare's family
• Please pray for speedy healing and continued relief from pain for Mark Van Buren, son of Ann and Gordie Van Buren, recovering from a difficult kidney surgery this past week
• Gordie Van Buren, in rehab at to Barnwell – pray for continued healing, strength, and uplifted spirits and outlook; visits from his KRC family and friends would be good
• Those dealing with cancer: Emese, sister-in-law of Patti Varga; Ginger; Donna Scalera; Joann Marvin; Rick; Matt; Tom Saulpaugh
• Those awaiting test results or surgery; recovering from surgery, injury, or illness; chronically ill; or in hospice care:  Scott Clinton; Ryan; Tammy; Florence Kern; Doris Schmieder; Betty, sister of Sally Heimroth; Angie Rivera Maycole; Paul Zietsman, Sr; Twin babies of Ashley and Mike; Dawn VanBuren; Priscilla Frisbee; Florence Rivera; Ron Stockhoff; Ken Smith; Merrill & Erika Johnson; George Clowe; Kathy Schneider’s father in Barnwell; Paul Varga 
• Those facing challenges, conflicts, difficult decisions: caregivers of children with health/developmental issues; those with employment/economic troubles; those suffering discouragement, depression, despair, or other mental health issues; those struggling with substance abuse, especially Greg L, Rachael, and Martin; those dealing with family relationships; young people challenged by the demands of schooling, looking for jobs, dealing with the many temptations confronting young adults
• God’s blessing on those recently engaged/married, expecting babies, new/first-time parents: Derick Latorre and Heather Donahue, recently engaged; Gary and Sarah (Hubel) March, recently married; first-time parents, Brad and Kelly Ennis Babic, expecting a baby girl in early September, Nicole (Baby Arianna), and Ryan & Jennifer (Deane) Anderson (Baby Grace); new parents, Leré & Anina Visagie (Baby Luke), and Luke & Ryan (Hacker) Morris (Baby Jocelyn)
• Those caring for the elderly, displaced, disabled, or ill, especially Diane Morgan
• Those who are traveling, especially Haley Hickman on a 3-week tour of Europe; and Stacey Baker traveling and studying in France until August 25
• Our residence-bound members:  Murray Leonardson, Mike Rivera
• Our military men and women, especially Courtney Hemmert; Will Ryan; Matt Plescia; and Spencer Moore - that they may know God’s presence and protection
• Families and friends of our military troops, and victims of warfare & violence worldwide  -  that they may be blessed with God’s peace and reassurance;
• The power of the peace & love of Christ to subdue everywhere the spirits of hatred, hostility, unforgiveness, cruelty, vengeance, and warfare

Remember To Thank & Praise God for
• All who serve KRC Ministries by meeting regularly, setting goals, preparing recommendations, & working together to complete projects and responsibilities
• His blessing of a wonderful, caring, Spirit-filled pastor of vision such as Pastor Rudy
• A good report from Gordie Van Buren’s doctors that he is healing well from his broken hip and other previous surgeries
• The news that Mark Van Buren’s kidney-removal surgery Thursday went well
• The news that Ryan (Hacker) Morris has recovered nicely from major eye surgery and is back to work
• The good report that Mike and Ashley's twin daughters, Sophia and Lily, born prematurely with congenital heart problems, are slowly improving
• Annake Visser’s speedy recovery from a recent infection
• Andrew & Melissa Welcome, who celebrated their first wedding anniversary June 23
• The good report that Angie Maycole’s heart has not been affected by the infection she is fighting, and that her condition is slowly improving
• The wonderful ways God shows his love to us, especially during difficult times

• Those men and women who have served or are now serving our country, & those who have sacrificed their well-being and lives for the peace & liberties we enjoy

“CHECK OUT” the newest acquisitions to the KRC Library
in the back left window well of the sanctuary.
Books may be checked out right at the display.

KRC OFFICE, EMAIL,WEBSITE,  AND FAX INFORMATION 
Email Address – krc@fairpoint.net
Website Address – kinderhookreformedchurch.com
Rev. Rudy is scheduled to be in his church office
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings.
If you wish to meet with Pastor during these times,
please call ahead for an appointment.
Evenings have been set aside for meetings, pastoral visitations,
and counseling.
For assistance on Fridays, please call or 859-4158
Church Phone  758-6401                Church Fax   758-6402
Phone messages are picked up several times daily.
If you need immediate assistance anytime, please call 859-4158.

~ BIRD’S-EYE FINANCIAL REPORT, JULY 2011 ~

 

 

Income, July 1 to 30, 2011

       $11,796

Bills Paid, July 1 to 30, 2011

       $13,050

Current Checkbook Balance

         $4,010

Outstanding Bills

                --

   Ministry Expenses

             $218  

   Pastoral Services and Personnel

           $550

TOTAL Outstanding Bills

           $768 

 

General Reserves Investment Account Balance, May 31

       $40,042

   Losses, Transfer to Checking (Missions, Assess., Cash Flow) 

       - $3,547

General Reserves Balance, June 30

       $36,495

 

 

Missions Pledges Budgeted 2011  

         $4,500

Missions Pledges Paid Out to Date

         $2,500

 

 

Classis Assessment 2011  

         $6,711

Assessment Payments to Classis to Date

         $3,355

Assessment Donations to Date

         $3,270 

COMING EVENTS

Today, July 31 
    10:00 am  Worship
                11:15 am  Adult Bible Study, main floor conference room

 
Thur., August 4
    10:00 am  Community Prayer Group meets @KRC

Saturdays through October 8
    10 am – Noon - Historic Tours of KRC

Sun.,   August 7 – Deadline for school supply donations for CCRM
    10:00 am  Communion Worship
                11:15 am  Adult Bible Study, main floor conference room

Mon.,  August  8 
      7:00 pm  Consistory meets
              
Wed.,  August 10
     6 – 8 pm  Sharing memories of KRC with author, Geoff Benton
                                  KRC Fellowship Room

Sun.,   August 14
    10:00 am  Worship
                11:15 am  Adult Bible Study, main floor conference room
     6 – 8 pm  Sharing memories of KRC with author, Geoff Benton
                                  KRC Fellowship Room

Mon.,  August 22 – 26
      9 am – Noon daily – Vacation Bible School @ KRC

Sun.,  September 11 
    10:00 am  Communion Worship
                11:15 am  Adult Bible Study, main floor conference room
    12 Noon – Annual Church Picnic at Dawn Tuttle’s home

 

Servers Next Sunday, August 7, 2011
Ushers: Dave Ennis, Will Ferguson, Bob and Josh Horn
Greeter(s): Jane Deane
Nursery: 
Lemonade Stand:  Noreen Dick