Kinderhook Reformed Church
Second Sunday in Advent
Worship Service for December 8, 2013 - Rev. Rudy Visser, Pastor
“To Know Christ and to Make Him Known”
A warm welcome to visitors. We would like to get to know you better and invite you to sign our Guest Book in the entranceway and fill out a pew card and place it in the offering plate.
8:30 A.M. CELEBRATION OF WORSHIP
Welcome and God's Greeting
Call to Worship
*Hymn #
Morning Prayer
Prayer for Illumination and Scripture Lesson Isaiah 11:1-10 (p. 491)
Message "God's Sketches of Divine Peace"
Prayer of Blessing
Presentation of our Tithes and Offerings
Intercession and The Lord’s Prayer
*Hymn #
*Benediction
10 A.M. CELEBRATION OF WORSHIP
All are invited to enjoy refreshments and fellowship downstairs in the Fellowship Room following today’s Worship service.
Ushers: Dave Ennis, Will Ferguson, Chuck Rothermel, Andrew Welcome
Greeter(s): Ken, Meredith, & Katie Sutherland Preschool Nursery available downstairs.
Guest organist: David Smith
Prelude
Welcome and Announcements
BOLDLY APPROACHING OUR GOD
Call to Worship (Responsive) Based on 1 John 1:5, Isaiah 9:6, John 1:14, Psalm 119:105
Let us come together to worship God, in whom there is no darkness at all;
and to exalt his Son, Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace,
the Word who became flesh, and the lamp unto our feet.
*Hymn of Peace #171 (All verses) Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
Around the Advent Wreath - Peace (Responsive) Ezekiel 37:1-14
LEADER: From the 23rd Psalm we read, “He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul.”
PEOPLE: When everything feels hopeless, when we feel as dead as the dry bones in Ezekiel’s valley, God calls us away from the workaday world. God calls us to breathe in the holy breath of peace.
LEADER: When we light the candle of Peace, we breathe in the One who restores us. (1st and 2nd purple candles are lit.)
PEOPLE: Whatever we face in life, God’s Spirit of peace will dwell within us.
Prayer Hymn Grant Us Your Peace
TURNING OUR HEARTS TO GOD
Prayer of Confession and Assurance of Pardon (Unison)
Gracious God, in Your holy presence we confess our sin to You. Although Christ is among us as our peace, we acknowledge that we cling to the values of a broken world and are a people divided against ourselves. We are too inclined toward anger, jealousy, revenge, ambition, and pride, which often give rise to discord and bitter feelings among us. In these things we have offended and grieved You. O Father of peace, forgive us and allow us to enjoy the blessing You have promised the peacemakers, who shall be called the children of God. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, amen.
[Silent Prayer of Confession]
God demonstrates his own love for us in this:
While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 5, Colossians 1)
Children’s Message and Blessing (Unison) Proverbs 12, 14; Isaiah 32
Heavenly Father, may these children come to understand that faith in Jesus brings a righteous heart; that a righteous heart is a heart at peace; that a heart at peace gives life to the body; and that joy awaits those who promote and share the peace that is in Christ. Amen.
WE COME BEFORE GOD'S OPEN WORD
Prayer for Illumination and Scripture Lesson Isaiah 11:1-10 (p. 491)
Message "God's Sketches of Divine Peace"
Prayer of Blessing
CELEBRATING GOD
Presentation of our Tithes and Offering/Offertory
*Doxology (#809) and Offertory Prayer
Generous God, we marvel at Your lavish gifts to us: life and breath; food and shelter; strength to work and time to rest; but most especially, hope and peace through your son, Jesus. In the light of Your self-giving love, which is perfectly revealed in Christ, we offer to You our praise, our hearts, our money, and our lives. Amen.
Pastoral Prayer and The Lord’s Prayer
*Hymn #170 (All verses) It Came upon the Midnight Clear
*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
Donations for poinsettias to decorate our pulpit area are now being accepted and are greatly appreciated. Contributions may be placed in the offering plate clearly marked for this purpose.
The following have been duly elected to serve on the 2014 Consistory of Kinderhook Reformed Church: As Deacons: Noreen Dick and Barbara Vosburgh. As Elders: Dawn Tuttle and Patti Varga. Please keep these individuals in your prayers as they begin serving the Lord in their respective ministries.
If you are not using the envelope system to present offerings to the church, but would like to do so in 2014, please pick up an envelope request form from the back table, fill it out, and drop it into the offering plate. The envelope system facilitates the efficient processing of contributions.
~CCRM MEN’S GIFT PROGRAM ~
LET’S SHARE OUR BLESSINGS and bring some warmth and caring to many who might not otherwise have much “Holiday Cheer” in these difficult times. KRC will be collecting gifts for homeless men, and Capital City Rescue Mission will distribute these gifts at the Mission’s community Christmas dinners. In a gallon-size zip lock bag, place the following 5 items: (1) two new pairs men’s warm socks; (2) one hat; (3) one pair of LG or XLG mittens or gloves; (4) a personal care item or pair of items such as toothbrush/paste, deodorant, shaving gel/razor, nail clipper; and (5) a non-perishable snack or treat that will not crush or melt. Wrap with festive paper (no bows), tape securely, mark LG or XLG on the outside of package, and RETURN TO THE CHURCH COLLECTION BOXES BY NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15.
ANGEL TREE GIFT PROGRAM~
Gift needs for Angel Tree’s children of prisoners are now displayed on angel cut-outs on the Christmas tree in the church’s main entrance. Each angel contains very specific age, size, and gift-request information for a particular child to assist donors as they gift-shop. Please stop by the Angel Tree, and consider taking an angel. Your gifts will bring Christmas joy to those Christ blessed and of whom he said, “The kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” DEADLINE FOR RETURNING GIFT DONATIONS TO KRC IS NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15.
Volunteers will also be needed to help deliver the gifts to local families. Please see Sara Hartman at church, or call 828-6368 or 917-538-657, if you would be willing to participate in the gift-delivery ministry.
CANDLELIGHT NIGHT FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13E
KRC will sponsor its annual Candlelight Night Open House 6 – 8:30 p.m. Friday, December 13, in conjunction with Kinderhook Village’s Candlelight Walk celebration. KRC’s Open House will feature tours of our beautiful sanctuary - decorated with lighted garlands, candles, poinsettias, the lovely Chrismon tree, and the nearly-life-size Fontanini Nativity - together with Christmas music, cookie decorating, refreshments, and community fellowship in the Fellowship Room. Refreshment buffet will include cookies, cake, candy, hot drinks, and eggnog. Volunteers to assist, as well as donations of buffet items and Christmas paper products, will be much appreciated. Please watch for a sign sheet to be provided on the back table in the near future, but feel free to contact a member of the Outreach Ministry if you are able to help with this ministry.
~SUNDAY SCHOOL CHRISTMAS PAGEANT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15S
As part of our Worship Service Sunday, December 15, KRC’s Sunday School children will be celebrating the birth of Jesus with the presentation of their Annual Christmas Pageant. Please note the following related dates and times:
December 8: Rehearsal for Christmas Pageant during Sunday School time. December 15: Dress rehearsal at 9 am and Christmas Pageant at 10 am. December 22: the 8:30 am and 10 am Worship services will combine and meet together at 10 am. Kids will attend the Living Sermon drama, "The Angel Gabriel", which will be presented during this service.
~LESSONS AND CAROLS 4 P.M. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22~
directed by David Smith will be presented at 4 p.m., December 22. Lessons and Carols is a worship service celebrating the birth of Jesus. The story of the fall of humanity, the promise of the Messiah, and the birth of Jesus is told in nine short Bible readings from Genesis, the prophetic books, and the Gospels, along with the singing of Christmas carols, hymns, and choir music. The first Lessons and Carols was held on Christmas Eve, 1918, at King's College, Cambridge, England, and has been broadcast from there by the BBC to millions of listeners around the world each Christmas Eve since 1931. The order of worship was adapted from an order prepared 38 years earlier by Edward White Benson, Bishop of Truro. Tradition says that the bishop organized a 10 pm service in Cornwall on Christmas Eve, 1880, in a temporary wooden shed serving as his cathedral.
A Christmas gift to our community from the KRC family, Lessons and Carols is open to all.
~7 P.M. CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT WORSHIP SERVICE~
As always, KRC’s Candlelight Worship is a highlight of the season of giving and a special time to express our joy, praise, and gratitude for the Gift of Jesus, Light of the World, from God the Father.
HAPPY DEEMBER BIRTHDAY!
Birgitta Sherman (2nd), Beth Ennis (8th), Merrill Johnson (15th), Marion Arnold (22nd), Nikki Barmen(22nd), Mackensie Clinton (22nd), Cricket Warren (26th)
~ LOOKING AHEAD ~
A NOTE ON NEXT YEAR’S (2014) CLASSIS ASSESSMENT
In response to some who have had questions regarding the distribution of our Classis Assessment contributions, they are divided three ways among the General Synod (national), Albany Synod (regional), and Columbia-Greene Classis (local). Next year, 2014, the assessment will be $86.79, and will be distributed as follows:
General Synod: $49.29 (up $1.67 from 2013)
Albany Synod: $29.00 (unchanged from 2013)
C. G. Classis: $ 8.50 (unchanged from 2013)
2014 TOTAL $86.79
Please see RCA’s Stewardship Report (when it becomes available) for information on General Synod’s use of its share of assessed funds. Albany Synod’s portion is used to cover administrative and Camp Fowler expenses, as well as services to our congregation, including leadership development, library/video resources, and crisis management. Classis’s share is used to cover administrative costs and retreats. x
~A FRIENDLY REMINDER ABOUT PEW CARDS~
Just a note to remind parents to keep their children from writing on or tearing the visitors’ cards and the prayer and announcement cards found in the slots on the back of each pew. The visitors’ cards are purchased from a professional printer, and are expensive to replace. Please have your children make use of the writing and coloring materials available especially for them in the back of the sanctuary. Your attention to this request will be greatly appreciated.
REMEMBER TO PRAY FOR
those who do not know Christ, or who are struggling in their faith. especially Aaron, for protection and reconnection with God.
KRC programs & projects and those planning & administering them: adult and children’s Sunday School; KRC’s youth; VBS; small group ministries; adult Bible studies; Community Prayer Group; outreach programs. Pray especially for KRC's adult Sunday School class led by John Schubert as the group begins a new prayer study.
KRC’s 2013 Consistory members; KRC’s administrative ministries, chairpersons, and supporting members.
our missionaries: Dave and Char Alexander; Perry Jones and Capital City Rescue Mission, Alex and Fran Knauss, Maureen Menard, Dick and Carolyn Otterness, Brian and Bea Post, Seth and Melissa Rogati, Betty Ann Stedwell.
our children sponsored through Compassion or other agencies..
our military men & women, their families, and friends, that they may know God’s presence, protection, and peace.
victims of warfare, terrorism, and violence worldwide, that they may be blessed with God’s peace and the reassuring knowledge that he is in control.
victims of natural disaster.
our state and national leaders, that God will grant them the leadership skills, wisdom, and the personal protection needed to govern effectively and safely.
those, especially children, suffering violence; exploitation; neglect; family hostility.
families and friends grieving the loss of loved ones, especially Erika and Merrill Johnson and brother-in-law, Tom, grieving the recent death of Tom's wife, Erika's sister.
Barbara Vosburgh's sister, Roberta, and her husband, Ken. At 97 years of age, Ken's health is at last failing and he is at home with around the clock Hospice care.
Nancy Baker's brother, whose leg surgery this past week to open an arterial blockage has been postponed due to complications during the surgery. Another attempt will be made in a few weeks to install a stent and open the artery and your prayers that this will be successful are much needed and appreciated.
Mike Rivera, also facing possible leg surgery to improve circulation.
Jane Smith, scheduled for an MRI to help determine the cause of and possible treatments for chronic back pain.
An unspoken request for Dawn Van Buren's mom, Doris.
Rachel’s son, born Oct. 7, recovering from recent major heart surgery
those battling or recovering from cancer: Mary, Jessica Farley's mom; Dawn Tuttle's daughter-in-law; Leonard, Susan Lamont's cousin; Kim Lyle's grandma; Rose and Joanne, friends of the Simpkins and Spaulding families; Charlie Roppolo; Luci & sister, Marilyn; Jen Kline; Dan McNeil; Kathy White, friend of Dawn VanBuren; George, father of Nancy Baker’s friend; Gail, daughter of a friend of Barbara Vosburgh; Guinda (LaHaie) Derrico; Sal Alessi; Tom Saulpaugh; Donna Scalera.
those awaiting test results or surgery; recovering from surgery, injury, or illness; chronically ill; or in hospice care: Noreen Kennedy; Geoff; Cliff; Chris Proper; Grace Rugen; Rose, friend of Kim Lyle; Heather LaTorre's mother; South African family who survived a brutal farm attack; Dawn Tuttle; Ruth Edge; Laurie (Dunham) Maul; Liz Carroll; Paul Varga; Blanche Rogers; Florence Rivera; Faity Tuttle.
those facing challenges & difficult decisions: Marcia; Marie; Dick Tasker and family; Bill, his wife, and children, neighbors of Merrill and Erika Johnson; Christians suffering persecution; Libby Little.
peace, comfort, and reassurance for all of our loved ones who are drawing very near to the close of this life.
those caring for the elderly, displaced, disabled, or ill, especially Diane Morgan.
residence-bound members, Gordie Van Buren; Murray Leonardson.
those who are traveling, especially Alan and Noreen Dick's grandson, Nicholas, traveling to and from California.
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 and prayer requests, to krc@fairpoint.net or call Paul at 859-4158.
REMEMBER TO THANK & PRAISE GOD FOR
Pastor Rudy Visser, a Spirit-filled minister and leader of vision.
Consistory and all who serve KRC Ministries by meeting regularly, setting goals, preparing recommendations, and working together to complete their callings.
KRC's Consistory, whose dedication to their calling is an inspiration to all.
all His provisions for our basic life needs, and the wonderful ways God shows his love to us, especially during difficult times.
the good report that Patrice Lyons’s mom has returned to full health and mobility and is doing fine. Patrice and her family are celebrating her mother's excellent recovery from hip and leg surgeries following serious injury exactly one year ago.
the good news that Maureen Mooney’s Uncle Jerry is doing well in cardiac rehab.
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.
In the month of October
97 families were served by the Ecumenical Food Pantry.
Thank you to all who made this possible.
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.
If you wish to meet with Pastor during these times,
please call ahead for an appointment.
Evenings are set aside for meetings, pastoral visitations,
and counseling.
For assistance on Mondays, please call 859-4158
Church Phone 758-6401 Church Fax 758-6402
Phone messages are picked up several times daily.
If you need immediate assistance anytime, call 859-4158.
COMING EVENTS
Today, December 8 CCRM/Angel Tree Christmas Gift Collection Continues
8:30 am Early Worship Service
10:00 am Worship and Sunday School Pageant Rehearsal
11:15 am Adult Sunday School
The adult Sunday School class led by John Schubert continues their study,
The Lord’s Prayer. All are welcome to join this class following Worship.
Tues., December 10
6:30 pm Consistory meets
7:00 pm KRC Youth Group meets
Thur, December 12
9:00 am Small Group meets @ KRC
Please join us as we continue our study of the book of Revelation.
10:00 am Community Prayer Group @ KRC
Fri., December 13
9:30 am Weight Watchers meet, KRC Fellowship Room
6 - 8:30 pm Annual Candlelight Night Open House at KRC
Sun., December 15 – Deadline for CCRM/Angel Tree Christmas Gift Collection
8:30 am Early Worship Service
9:00 am Sunday School Pageant Dress Rehearsal
10:00 am Worship and Sunday School Christmas Program
11:15 am Adult Sunday School
Sun., December 22 Combined 10 am Worship. Early Worship Resumes 1/5/14.
10:00 am Worship – Living Sermon, “The Angel Gabriel”
11:15 am Adult Sunday School
4:00 pm KRC’s 4th Annual Lessons and Carols Christmas Worship Service
Tues., December 24
7:00 pm KRC’s Annual Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship Service
Sun., December 29 Combined 10 am Worship. Early Worship Resumes 1/5/14.
10:00 am Worship – Perry Jones, Guest Preacher
11:15 am Adult Sunday School
