March 18, 2012

Kinderhook Reformed Church Worship Service
Route 9 & Church Street, Kinderhook, NY
10:00 a.m. March 18, 2012
“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 enjoy fellowship and refreshments with us at Coffee Hour downstairs in the Fellowship Room following today’s Worship Service.

Ushers: Ted Call, Jerry Flansburg, Arnie March, and Glenn Warren
Greeter(s): Maureen Mooney
Preschool Nursery facility is available downstairs, Sara Schubert supervising.

Donations for Easter lilies to decorate our pulpit area are now being  accepted, and are greatly appreciated.  Contributions may be placed directly in    the offering plate clearly marked for this purpose.

Order of Worship

  PRELUDE                                     
  WELCOME, SILENT PRAYER, & PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
  VOTUM and GOD’S GREETING

Boldly Approaching Our God

  CALL TO WORSHIP  (Responsive)  Based on Psalm 113
       Enter the house of the Lord with Praise.
       Praise, O servants of the Lord; praise the name of the lord.
       Let the name of the Lord be praised, both now and forevermore.
       From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets,
       the name of the Lord is to be praised. 
       The Lord is exalted over all the nations, his glory above the heavens.
       Who is like the Lord our God the One who sits enthroned on high?
       He stoops down to raise the poor from the dust.
       He lifts the needy from the ash heap and seats them with princes.
       Praise the lord.
*HYMN #523                                      Trust and Obey
  INVOCATION                                         
  CALL TO CONFESSION - Based on Isaiah 55:6, 7
Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.  Let the wicked repent and forsake their ways and their evil thoughts.  Let them turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will freely pardon.
  PRAYER OF CONFESSION   (Unison)  Based on Psalm 40         
       Our sins have overtaken us, and we cannot see.  They are more than      the hairs of our heads, and our hearts fail within us.  In our  disobedience, we have become poor and broken, and needy; troubles without number surround us. Do not withhold your mercy from us, O God.  Do not delay – come quickly to help us.
[Silent Prayer of Confession]
Be pleased, O Lord to save us.
We repent of our rebellious ways and desire to do your will.  We put our trust in you, O Lord. You are our help and our deliverer.

  ASSURANCE OF PARDON - Based on Isaiah 57:15
The high and lofty One who lives forever and whose name is holy says, “I live in a high and holy place, but I also live with those who are contrite and lowly in spirit; I renew the hearts of the contrite and revive the spirits of the lowly.”  By his own word, therefore, we are assured that our holy God forgives the sin of every repentant heart.  
  PRAISE SONGS              Jesus, Take Our Broken Pieces,  Jesus, Your Are Changing Me
  CHILDREN’S PRAYER BLESSING  (Unison)
All-knowing and faithful God, lead our children along paths of righteousness into the places and purposes that you have planned for their lives. May they trust always in your promise and power to guide and direct them in serving you and in bringing blessing to others.

We Come Before God’s Open Word

  PRAYER for ILLUMINATION  (Unison)   Based on Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah
Guide us, great God.  We are weak, but you are mighty; hold us in your  powerful hand.  Open your crystal fountain streaming with truth and spiritual healing; let your holy fire and cloudy pillar lead us.  Bread of Heaven, feed us – feed us till we want no more, and we will praise you forever.  Amen.   
  SCRIPTURE LESSON     Jeremiah 18:1-11 (p.549)
  MESSAGE                                                                         “A Potter with a Purpose” 
  PRAYER OF BLESSING


Celebrating God
  WE GIVE OUR TITHES and OFFERINGS/OFFERTORY                                            
*DOXOLOGY and OFFERTORY PRAYER – Based on Psalm 32
  Holy God, we offer these gifts to be used to preach the truth of salvation and eternal life through Christ Jesus, your Son; to proclaim your promise of renewal of mind, body, and spirit; and to make known the blessings of your love, reassurance, and peace to those who are in need.  Amen.
  ANOUNCEMENTS CONCERNING THE FAMILY OF GOD
  PASTORAL PRAYER and THE LORD’S PRAYER
*HYMN #584                        Have Thine Own Way, Lord
*BENEDICTION BLESSING & 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. (2x)
  POSTLUDE                  
  
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup for Sale!
Church Family Ministry will be selling homemade chicken noodle soup for $6 per pint and $12 per quart.  Kindly place your orders on the order sheet on the back table, and when ordering, consider your neighbors, friends, and those who are housebound or ill.  Deadline for ordering is Sunday, March 18, and soup orders will be delivered in the Fellowship Room on Sunday, March 25.

"HEARTSONG” SINGERS COMING SUNDAY, MARCH 25, TO KRC

JOIN US NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 25, AT 4 P.M. for a country gospel concert featuring “Heartsong”.  Going into their second decade, Heartsong Singers for Christ has been sharing the gospcl and their love for their Heavenly Father through song to the body of Christ. They are unique and energetic with a fresh progressive country sound peppered with contemporary. They have been able to blur the edges of country, southern gospel, and contemporary into a blend that is unmistakably Heartsong music. This distinct trio can take their harmonies and fashion innovative concepts and retool old traditional hymns as well.  They come as an excellent team of encouragement for any audience!

MAUNDY THURSDAY SUPPER AND COMMUNION WORSHIP
A bread-soup-salad supper will be served Maundy Thursday, April 5, at 6 p.m. in the Fellowship Room followed by Communion Worship at 7 p.m. Soup will be provided, but donations of bread, butter, tossed salad, and beverages would be much appreciated.  Please sign up on the sheet available at the back table.

FRIDAYS AT 9:30 AM IN THE FELLOWSHIP HALL, please join Dawn Tuttle, Jane Deane, and Joy Bertram for crafts we will be making for the KRC fair/bazaar which will take place November 3.

KRC SMALL GROUPS
KRC’s small groups, offered on Thursdays at 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., will be continuing The Path to the Cross, led by Pastor Rudy. All are invited to join one of these groups, and walk-ins are always welcome!  Jean Hacker will be leading a Stonecroft study, Why Believe?, Sundays following Worship.
  
~ECUMENICAL EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE~
At 6:30 a.m. Easter Sunday, April 8, the Stuyvesant Reformed Church will host a Sunrise Service to be held at the Allen homestead on Sharptown Road.  Following the service, participants are invited to return to Stuyvesant Church for a continental breakfast.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Volunteers are needed to supervise the Nursery during Sunday worship service, and volunteers are also needed to provide for Coffee Hour following worship.  We ask that you would prayerfully consider offering your services to one or both of these ministries.  Sign-up sheets are available on the back table.
                             
Last Sunday, a thank-you letter to Pastor Rudy from Prison Fellowship’s Angel Tree Ministries was included as an insert in the bulletin.  The letter’s main focus was to acknowledge the positive effect that participation in Angel Tree by KRC, and thousands of other churches across the nation, has had in making Christ known to prisoners and their families during the Christmas season.  However, the letter failed to include a thank-you to all the individuals who work so diligently to coordinate the Angel Tree program and to shop, buy, wrap, and deliver the gifts to the children of prisoners in our area.  To Angel Tree coordinator, Sara Hartman, to the members of KRC’s Missions Ministry, and to all of you who donated and delivered gifts, a hearty, “Thank-you!”  

 to Doris Schmieder (1st), Maureen Mooney (5th), Kathy Schneider (5th), Priscilla Frisbee (6th), Stan Bertram (12th), Nancy Call(14th), Greg Clause(19th),  Beth Ennis (30th), and Paul Zietsman (31st).  PRISCILLA FRISBEE, TURNING 94, IS THE OLDEST MEMBER OF THE MARCH BIRTHDAY GROUP!

Remember to Pray for
• those who do not know Christ, have turned their back on God, or are struggling in their faith or with other spiritual issues.  A special request has been made that each of us in the KRC family consider praying this prayer:  "Lord, heal my soul, touch my heart, touch my tongue, break down my walls."
• KRC’s Consistory members and administrative ministries.
• KRC programs & projects and those administering them: Vacation Bible School beginning June 25; Natural Church Development; Concerts in the Village & church restoration; tricentennial events.
• leaders & those attending KRC’s Sunday School, Youth Group, new small group ministries, adult Bible study, Community Prayer Group, and New Members’ Class.
• our state and national leaders, that God will grant them the leadership skills, wisdom, and the personal protection needed to govern effectively and safely.
• 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..
• those, especially children, victimized by famine, drought, and other natural disasters; abuses of war and violence; exploitation; neglect; and family hostility.
• families and friends grieving the loss of loved ones, especially Helen Kulisek and family grieving the death of Ellen’s mother, Christine Kulisek;  the Lundquest Family mourning the passing of Bill Lundquest; and Sally Heimroth and family grieving the recent loss of Sally’s sister, Mary Anne Snyder.
• Lonnie, recovering from surgery this past Thursday to remove a brain cyst.
• 21-year-old George in South Africa, family member of Elize Visser, in rehab to overcome his drug addiction.  Please pray that God will help George find his road to freedom.
• Kara (Ennis) Mobley, daughter of Dave and Beth Ennis, as she is faced with a very stressful personal issue.  Pray that Kara will experience the presence of God and his strength at this trying time, and that she will know the reassurance and peace of Christ.
• Jim Baker's mother, battling kidney failure and facing the possibility of pacemaker surgery. Remember Jim and Nancy as well as they assist in his mother's recovery.
• Dave Mooney, Maureen Mooney's husband, as he recovers from surgery; also Shawn, Maureen's nephew, facing heart surgery May 15.
• those dealing with cancer: Judy Iocco; Stephanie; Ron Jensen; Patricia’s mother; Donna Scalera; Emese; Joann Marvin; Rick; Matt; Tom Saulpaugh.  
• those awaiting test results or surgery; recovering from surgery, injury, or illness; chronically ill; or in hospice care:  Jean Keegan; Ruth F. and Ruth C; Irene Smith; Aaron Clause; Gavin, 3-year-old grandson of the Clauses, still struggling with a bronchial/sinus infection after several rounds of medications; Baby Brooklyn Faith Meyer; Joan Clause; Florence Rivera; Gordie Van Buren; Sue Jones; Ron Stockhoff; Ken Smith; Kathy Schneider’s father and Charles March, Sr. in Barnwell; Paul Varga.
• those facing challenges, conflicts, difficult decisions: the Schuberts, as they attempt to sell John’s mother’s home in Troy; Clayton, as he selects a college; Louise; Libby Little, facing a demanding schedule; those struggling with unnamed issues; caregivers of children with health/developmental issues; those with employment or other economic troubles; those suffering discouragement, depression, despair, or other mental health issues; those struggling with dependencies/substance abuse; those dealing with family relationships; young people challenged by the demands of schooling, looking for jobs, dealing with many temptations confronting young adults.
• God’s blessing on those recently engaged/married, expecting babies, new/first-time parents: Terry (Gaylord) Nawrot, expecting twins in July; Brad & Kelly Babic (Baby Taylor Marie), the Principis (Baby Gianna Drew).
• those caring for the elderly, displaced, disabled, or ill, especially Diane Morgan.
• our residence-bound members:  Murray Leonardson and Mike Rivera.
• our military men and women, especially Courtney Hemmert, Will Ryan, and Matt Plescia - 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.

Anyone not already on our email prayer chain who is interested in receiving or regular prayer and praise requests through email,
please contact Paul or 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.
• Pastor Rudy Visser, a Spirit-filled preacher of the Word and leader of vision.
• the blessing of family and friends.
• 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.
• Patricia Taliaferro, who is recovering well following a recent cardiac procedure
• Baby Grace Anderson, grandchild of Jane Deane, who has returned to complete health
• Leo Dolan, whose tests came out well and his blood pressure has been regulated. 

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.

2012 EVENTS TO CELEBRATE OUR 300TH YEAR
March 25, 4 pm  Heartsong Concert - a blend of country, southern gospel and contemporary music
March 31, 10 am  Easter Egg Hunt (BYO basket) -  egg hunt, snacks, crafts, Easter story 
April 8, 10 am  Easter service
April 22, 3 pm  “Glory of Handel” with organist David Smith, members from the Albany Symphony Orchestra, and choral singers
May 20, 4 pm  Keynote Worship Service, Kinderhook Reformed Church Tricentennial Celebration - a portion of the service will be presented in Dutch, and a reception will follow the service
May 26, Abe Williamson Memorial at Kinderhook Cemetery -  dedication of a memorial monument placed by family members in remembrance of family members and others buried in the cemetery without markers
June 25-29, 9-12 Noon daily “National Parks Vacation Bible School” for ages 3 through Grade 6
July 20, 7 pm  An evening of acoustic worship with Derek Levendusky -
Derek is the lead singer of the band, “Isaiah 6”
Fall Concert (details TBA)
November 3, Church Bazaar
December 16, Third annual Lessons & Carols with organist David Smith and choir

MANY THANKS AND BLESSINGS TO THE KRC FAMILY FOR THEIR GENEROSITY IN SUPPORT OF THE VALATIE FOOD PANTRY.  The Pantry served 95 families in January, including 156 adults and 107 children.  The Pantry is heavily over-stocked on spaghetti at this time, but other non-perishable foods that are always popular are evaporated milk; coffee; sugar; boxed cereals; pancake mix; syrup; jelly; canned meats, fruits, and vegetables; spaghetti sauce; mac & cheese; dinner helpers; apple sauce; juice; cake & brownie mixes. Donations may be placed in the collection containers available in the entryways of the church.

OFFICE, EMAIL,
WEBSITE,  AND FAX INFORMATION 
Email Address – krc@fairpoint.net
Website Address – kinderhookreformedchurch.com
Evenings have been 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, please call 859-4158.

KRC 2012-2013 CONSISTORY

Pastor Rev. Rudy Visser, President of Consistory, Classis Delegate
Deacons

Noreen Dick – ’13,  Church Family     758-6640
Patrice Lyons – ’13,  Missions   758-8400
Laura Rafferty – ’12,  Property    828-7189
Barbara Vosburgh –’13,  Stewardship / Treasurer   758-6512

Elders
Dave Ennis – ’13,  Worship   784-9656
Maureen Mooney – ’12,  Evangelism / Clerk     210-6079
Dawn Van Buren – ’13,  Cemetery / Pastoral Relations /
                                           Personnel / VP of Consistory   758-7564
Patti Varga–’12,  Christian Education    392-4771

       John Schubert, Chairman, Classis Financial Committee

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


COMING EVENTS
Today, March 18
   10:00 am  Worship and Sunday School
    11:15 am  Adult Sunday School meets, main floor conference room              
                    Stonecroft study group meets in main floor classroom
           Deadline for ordering Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Tues., March 20 – Please note:  Youth group will not meet this week,
                               but will resume next Tuesday, March 27.
Wed., March 21 - 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm  Pot Luck & Lenten Study at the
        Ghent Reformed Church
Thur., March 22
     9:00 am  Small Group meets @KRC, “The Path to the Cross”
   10:00 am  Community Prayer Group meets @KRC
     7:00 pm  Small Group meets, “The Path to the Cross”
Sun.,  March 25
   10:00 am  Worship and Sunday School
   11:15 am  Adult Sunday School meets, main floor conference room
                    Stonecroft study group meets in main floor classroom
        Delivery of Chicken Noodle Soup in Fellowship Room
                                following church service
     4:00 pm  “Heartsong” Country Gospel Concert at KRC
Tues.,  March 27 - KRC family cooks free supper at St. Luke’s
     7:00 pm  KRC Youth Group meets
Wed.,  March 28 - 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm  Pot Luck and Lenten Study at
Ghent Reformed Church
Sat.,    March 31
   10:00 am  Easter Egg Hunt (BYO basket) - egg hunt, snacks, crafts,
              and Easter story
Thurs., April 5  Maundy Thursday Supper and Communion Worship
     6:00 pm  Soup, bread, and salad supper
     7:00 pm  Communion Worship
Easter Sunday, April 8 - Ecumenical Sunrise Service
     6:30 am  Allen homestead, Sharptown Road, Stuyvesant,
             continental breakfast following, Stuyvesant Reformed Church


Servers Next Sunday, March 25, 2012
Ushers: Jeff Barmen, Derick Latorre, Steve Shpur, Bob Wildermuth
Greeter(s):  Barry Knights and Ann Carlisle
Nursery Supervisor: