Kinderhook Reformed Church Worship Service
Route 9 & Church Street, Kinderhook, NY - 10:00 a.m. April 10, 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 invite you to enjoy fellowship and refreshments with us downstairs in the Fellowship Room immediately following Worship.

Ushers: Chuck Rothermel, Bill Schneider, Andrew Welcome, Paul Zietsman
Greeter(s): Glenn and Cricket Warren
Preschool Nursery facility is available for parental use downstairs.
Fresh-cut Flowers are given today by Deborah Drebitko and Geoffrey Gross
in loving memory of their mother, Glenda Gross.

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)
Come, let us look! Let us behold the beauty of the Lord.
Come, let us hear! Let us learn of the wonders he has done.
Day and night creation resounds, creation cries out,
creation sings and proclaims the glory of the Lord.
And as we gather, may we, with humble hearts and open minds,
assume our proper place of praise.
Let our voices be caught up together with the cries of creation
to proclaim the glory, and beauty, and majesty of the Lord.
For he is glorious.
For he is beautiful and majestic. Amen.
*HYMN OF PRAISE #60 Great Is Thy Faithfulness
CALL TO CONFESSION - Hymn #460 (verses 1 & 4) Search Me, O God
PRAYER OF CONFESSION (Responsive)
We are called to be imitators of Christ,
but we often mimic the world.
We are called to mark others who walk the walk,
but we are often content to talk the talk.
We are called to be friends of the cross,
but too often we have been enemies of the cross.
We have our citizenship in heaven,
but we have fallen in love with the world.

[Moment of silence]

Forgive us, O God:
For our false mimicry, our false friendships, and our false allegiances. Give us the strength and wisdom to follow in the way of the cross, in the pattern set before us by our suffering Savior. Amen.
 

ASSURANCE OF PARDON
“With everlasting love I will have compassion on you,” says the Lord, your Redeemer. “I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins. Return to me, for I have redeemed you.”
To God be the glory! Amen.
PRAISE SONGS
CHILDREN’S PRAYER BLESSING (Unison - Congregation may remain seated.)
Great God, make your presence known to these children. May they experience you and acknowledge you as a God of miracles – especially the miracles of their salvation and eternal life. Amen.
Sunday School students are now invited to join their teachers.
God’s Opened Word

PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
SCRIPTURE TEXT John 11:17-27, 40-44
MESSAGE “From Parables to Miracles!”
PRAYER OF BLESSING
God’s Children Celebrating Him

PRESENTATION OF OUR TITHES and OFFERINGS/OFFERTORY
*DOXOLOGY and OFFERTORY PRAYER (Unison)
Gracious God, you have given us the ultimate gift in the death and resurrection of your Son. We humbly offer these gifts to you. Consecrate them to your use - that the ministry of this congregation might serve as a witness to those who still doubt. Amen.
ANNOUNCEMENTS CONCERNING THE FAMILY OF GOD
PASTORAL PRAYER and THE LORD’S PRAYER
*HYMN #477 O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus
*BENEDICTION and RESPONSE – By the Gift of God’s Grace
By the gift of God’s grace may your burdens be light,
and your heart with his love be aglow.
May your spirit be glad, may your soul be at rest,
and may Christ grant you peace as you go. Amen.
POSTLUDE

Kinderhook Reformed Church has joined with Ghent Reformed Church in a 6-week cooperative Lenten study, “40 Days of Purpose,” based on Rick Warren’s book, The Purpose Driven Life. You are welcome to join in the remaining sessions Wednesdays through April 20. Ghent will be hosting this coming Wednesday, April 6, with potluck supper and study beginning at 6 p.m. Topics remaining to be addressed through short videos, discussions, and workbook activities are: MINISTRY – You Were Shaped for Serving God; EVANGELISM – You Were Made for Mission.

Dear KRC Family,
As we come to the end of another successful “Free Dinners” season, we want to thank everyone who made our February 22 and March 29 dinners a success. The food was delicious, and the fellowship was great. It’s always good to meet new people and reconnect with old friends. Serving others and helping our community is so rewarding and a true blessing. We just want to thank you again.
The Outreach Committee of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church

Gordie & Mark Van Buren and family wish to thank
all who worked and provided food for
Ann Van Buren’s funeral and reception.

FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK
Oh, bystander, how can you claim discipleship?
Do you ever think of yourself as being on a Lenten journey with Christ? Let’s spend a moment and think back . . .
As Jesus travels the dusty roads from Samaria to Galilee, preaching, healing, and blessing people with the rich grace of the Kingdom of God, he begins to draw a crowd. His growing popularity draws the attention of the religious leaders who challenge his ministry, and yet his fame increases.
But the crowd is a fickle bunch. While curious and even a little entertained, they follow at a safe distance, have no responsibility, answer no direct question, always observing, but never fully participating. They sacrifice very little to follow Jesus. Most return home with full hearts, full minds, and full bellies, which is more than they came with. They will have a tale to tell in the morning and stories to share with their grandchildren. Mostly, they will return to life as usual, having been entertained by Jesus for an afternoon, but not having their lives transformed by him.
The disciple, on the other hand, is involved in a risky process of hands on, whole-life transformation. Following Jesus this closely is a costly endeavor. It requires an obedience and commitment to Jesus that will radically change one's life.
It's likely that we could follow Jesus around this Lenten season at a safe distance, comfortably entertained by his activity in our world. We could find ourselves among the crowd who sacrificed very little and kept their distance. Or, we could get up close and personal, and like the disciples, abandon everything in full commitment to learn who he is, what he's about, and to become all that he has called us to be. If we are not careful this Lenten season, we could find ourselves among the vast crowd, entertained in a game of follow the leader, while the Spirit is calling us to be disciples who journey with the Savior.
Where are you right now in your journey?

To help us with our journey through Easter we will be preaching on the following:

Today, April 10, John 11:17-27, 40-44

Palm Sunday, April 17, Isaiah 50:4-9a

Maundy Thursday Communion Worship, April 21, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Bread-and-soup supper served at 6 pm, Communion Worship at 7 pm.
.
Easter Sunday, April 24, John 20:1-18
Our Easter Sunrise service will be held at the Presbyterian Church in Valatie. Plan to make the sacrifice of rising early, and attend this year. We will be gathering outside at 6:30 am around the gazebo just north of the church. Breakfast will be served in the church’s fellowship hall immediately following the service.
Please pray with me that Jesus’ journey, his death, and his ascension will be new again to all who come in contact with the message of the triumph of a living God.
Peace of the risen Christ to all, Pastor Rudy

St. John the Baptist Church plans to prepare and distribute food baskets this Easter to nearly 100 families who use the Valatie Food Pantry. Baskets will include ham, potatoes/yams, pineapple, corn, green beans, brownies, and Easter candy for the kids. St. John’s will purchase these items in bulk, and KRC and other area churches are invited to help financially with this Easter gift to needy families of our community. All funds left over will be put into the Pantry. EASTER BASKET DONATIONS MAY BE PLACED DIRECTLY IN THE OFFERING PLATE CLEARLY MARKED FOR THIS PURPOSE.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!!!
Concerts in the Village:
SPLENDOR IN THE SPRING
Sunday, May 15th at 4:00 p.m.
Music for Voices, Brass and Organ
Purcell, Handel, Karg-Elert, Smith, Baksa and Vaughan Williams
Choral Ensemble, Soloists, Guest Trumpeters Eric Latini and Peter Bellino, and David Smith, Music Director
Kinderhook Reformed Church, Broad Street in Kinderhook
Suggested contribution $15
Reception follows at 5:30 p.m.

Remember to Pray for
• Those whose families and friends are praying for their salvation or other spiritual needs
• The General Synod as it considers Tom De Vries, the canditate being presented by the General Synod Council, to serve as the next General Secretary of the Reformed Church in America – please uphold Tom in your prayers as well
• KRC’s Consistory members and administrative ministries
• New 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 Sunday School, Youth Group, Adult Bible Study, and Prayer Group
• 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; children sponsored through Compassion or other agencies
• Those struggling with substance abuse, especially Rachael, Greg L., and Martin
• Those, especially children, suffering natural disaster, abuses of war and violence, exploitation, neglect, family hostility
• Families and friends grieving the loss of loved ones, especially Gordie and Mark Van Buren and family and friends grieving the recent loss of Ann Van Buren; family and friends grieving the loss of Helen Cullings, 91, who died on March 11 following a stroke - Helen loved to attend KRC while living in Kinderhook, and did so as often as she was able until she went to live with her daughter, Kate Hanson, in Avondale, AZ
• Tanya, friend of Deborah Spaulding, who has had troubling test results and is undergoing more tests this coming week
• Caitlyn, niece of Ruth Edge, facing another surgery this coming week; pray for a quick and complete recovery for Caitlyn without further complications.
• Jonah Meldrim, fighting complications with strep, scarlet fever, and pneumonia – Jonah is doing much better and is now recovering at home
• Ron Stockhoff, recovering from hip fractures, shoulder and hand injuries, and a subsequent systemic staph infection, all resulting from a fall from his bicycle; Ron has responded extremely well to medication and therapy, is now walking without the soon a couple of weeks – pray also for Ron’s wife, Harriet, who has been heavily stressed during this difficult time, and for safe travels home
• Bea Post, Wycliffe missionary, recovering from successful back surgery and facing several weeks of physical therapy; pray also for husband, Brian, as he assists in Bea’s recovery and continues the responsibilities of his ministry
• The father, nephew, and other family members of Susan Lamont in need of healing
• Florence Rivera, recovering at home from a second hospitalization
• Others awaiting test results or surgery; recovering from surgery, injury, or illness; chronically ill; or in hospice care: Chuck Shattenkirk; Deborah Spaulding; Donna Scalera; Aaron; Doris Schmieder; John; Dawn VanBuren; Christophe; Bob Ringen; John Steneck; Ken Smith; Gordie Van Buren; Merrill & Erika Johnson; Priscilla Frisbee; George Clowe; Kathy Schneider’s father in Barnwell; Paul Varga
• Those dealing with cancer: Rick; Matt; Tom Saulpaugh; Walt; Joe; Jennifer Kline; Julie’s aunt; Dave’s wife; Connie; Carin; Kara Ennis Mobley
(Continued on next page.)

• Those facing challenges, conflicts, difficult decisions: Patti and Paul Varga, in need of a new rental home before May 1; Elizabeth; Libby Little; churches consolidating or considering closing their doors; caregivers of children with health/developmental issues; those facing employment/economic troubles; those suffering discouragement, depression, despair, or other mental health issues; those dealing with family relationships; young people challenged by the demands of schooling, looking for jobs, dealing with the many temptations confronting young adults
• Those caring for the elderly, displaced, disabled, or ill, especially Diane Morgan and John and Sara Schubert
• Our residence-bound members: Murray Leonardson, Mike Rivera
• God’s blessing on those recently engaged/married, expecting babies, new/first-time parents: Derick Latorre and Heather Donahue, and Mary Schubert and T.J. Lynch, recently engaged; Gary and Sarah (Hubel) March, and Andrew & Melissa (Call) Welcome, recently married; Nicole, expecting her first child; new parents Luke and Ryan (Hacker) Morris (Baby Jocelyn); Kate (Little) and Chris Stevens (Baby Vivian Elise)
• Those who are traveling
• Our military men and women, especially Will Ryan; Matt Plescia; Carrington Hessell; 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

Regular reports are needed on the progress or condition of all individuals on our prayer and praise lists. If you have updated information, especially regarding individuals whose names appear in bold print, please call the church office.

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
• Jay Rippel’s safe return home from Afghanistan
• The good news that tests for Donna Scalera are encouraging, although she is facing another operation to deal with possible side-effects of her recent cancer treatments; please continue to pray for Donna’s complete recovery
• Remarkable improvement in the spirits and physical condition of Aaron, who suffered multiple injuries in a recent auto accident; Aaron is now recovering at home, his neck brace is off, he is talking away, and he is able to do some walking - many thanks for all the prayers that went up – keep them coming!
• Dawn Van Buren’s continued improvement and presence with us in Worship
• 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

MANY THANKS AND BLESSINGS TO THE KRC FAMILY FOR THEIR GENEROSITY IN SUPPORT OF THE VALATIE FOOD PANTRY. 83 families were served in the month of February. Foods that are always popular and needed are evaporated milk; coffee; sugar; boxed cereals; pancake mix; syrup; jelly; canned meats, fruits, and vegetables; spaghetti sauce; pasta; mac & cheese; dinner helpers; apple sauce; juice; cake & brownie mixes. Donations may be placed in the collection containers available in the front and side entryways of the church.

Our church’s 300th birthday in 2012 is getting closer.
You are invited again to share with Consistory your ideas on
“How to celebrate 300 years of KRC history.”

- PLEASE NOTE ON THE BACK TABLE OF THE SANCTUARY -
• Upcoming Camp Fowler retreats, “getaways”, summer camp, & other events
• Synod-sponsored local workshops, learning opportunities, retreats
• Spiritual conference opportunities – information and registration forms
• Words of Hope, & other devotional booklets – Please take for use at home.
• Young Life, Compassion, Service, GO, TWR, Words of Hope - latest world
missions’ magazine issues / updates
• Missions updates from RCA and KRC-supported missionaries
• Recent RCA Today copies
• RCA’s Stewardship and Building and Extension Fund reports and investment
opportunity brochures
• Volunteer opportunities through RCA
• Regional Synod of Albany’s latest newsletter, Close to Home
• Personal greetings cards, “thank-you” notes, and letters
• Flower Donation, and other volunteer sign-up sheets
• Surveys and information response sheets
• KRC Library booklist
• Shepherd’s Guide, Christian Yellow Pages & Capital Region church directory
• Public service information and opportunities

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.

KRC 2011-2012 CONSISTORY

Pastor Rev. Rudy Visser, President of Consistory, Classis Delegate
Deacons
Margaret Herrmann, Stewardship – ’12 758-6175
Laura Rafferty, Property – ’12 828-7189
Dawn Tuttle, Church Family, Clerk of Consistory, Cemetery – ’11 758-6031
Barbara Vosburgh, Missions, Church Treasurer – ’11 758-6512
Elders
Maureen Mooney, Evangelism – ’12 210-6079
Dawn VanBuren, Pastoral Relations, Personnel – ’11 758-7564
Patti Varga, Christian Education – ‘12 758-1266

KRC STAFF
KRC Secretary Cemetery Supervisor/KRC Sexton
Paul Clause – 859-4158 Greg Clause – 369-8472, 758-1338

COMING EVENTS
Today, April 10
10:00 am Worship and Sunday School
11:00 am Fellowship and Refreshments, Fellowship Room
11:15 am Adult Bible Study, main floor conference room
Mon. April 11
6:30 pm ZUMBA fitness group, Fellowship Room
7:00 pm Consistory meets
Tues., April 12
7:00 pm KRC Youth Group meets
Sat., April 16 - 10:00 am Easter Egg Hunt @KRC
Sun., April 17 - Palm Sunday
10:00 am Worship and Sunday School
11:00 am Fellowship and Refreshments, Fellowship Room
11:15 am Adult Bible Study, main floor conference room
Mon. April 18
6:30 pm ZUMBA fitness group, Fellowship Room
7:00 pm Missions Ministry meets
Thur., April 21 - Maundy Thursday Supper & Communion Worship
6:00 pm Supper, KRC Fellowship Room
7:00 pm Communion Worship
Sun., April 24 - Easter Sunday
6:30 am Sunrise Service (at the gazebo) and Breakfast,
Presbyterian Church, Valatie
10:00 am Worship @ KRC
Please Note: Sunday School and Adult Bible Study
will not meet Easter Sunday.

Mon. April 25
6:30 pm ZUMBA fitness group, Fellowship Room
7:00 pm Consistory meets
Tues., April 26 - 9:30 am Christian Ed. Ministry meets

Servers Palm Sunday, April 17, 2011
Ushers: Chuck Rothermel, Bill Schneider, Andrew Welcome, Paul Zietsman
Greeter(s): Jim and Nancy Baker
Nursery: