Kinderhook Reformed Church Worship Service
Route 9 & Church Street, Kinderhook, NY
10:00 a.m. May 29, 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: Jim Baker, Bob Dreier, Loren Speer
Greeter(s): Susan Patterson
Preschool Nursery available downstairs, Suzy Nieman supervising.
Flowers are given today by Dawn Van Buren in celebration of Memorial Day.
Order of Worship
PRELUDE
WELCOME, SILENT PRAYER, and PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
GOD’S GREETING
God’s Children’s Approach
CALL TO WORSHIP (Responsive) Based on Psalm 100.
Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;
His faithfulness continues through all generations.
Lord, we praise you for your faithfulness. Amen.
*HYMN #356 (verses 1, 4, & 5) All Creatures of Our God and King
CALL TO CONFESSION Based on Hebrews 10:22
Let us draw near to God with sincerity of heart and full assurance of faith, our guilty hearts sprinkled clean, our bodies washed with pure water. Let us confess our sins before God and one another.
PRAYER OF CONFESSION (Responsive)
Merciful God, your Word is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword. It cuts through the lives we profess to lead, exposing our motives and priorities and how we actually live. Forgive us when we turn and walk away from you rather than give up the things to which we cling.
[Moment of Silence]
Foolishly we dare to test your goodness.
We confess that you are not our first priority. Arrogantly we question the daily bread you provide, and proudly we argue in favor of our own will.
[Moment of Silence]
Forgive us Oh Lord, and teach us to forgive and live reconciled lives with you and one another!
Teach us to love and cherish, to honor and to be honorable, to live life with gratitude, and to deeply care for one another. Show us once more that Christ is our cup and our portion so that we may find in him our heart's delight. This we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen!
ASSURANCE OF PARDON (Responsive)
God turns us around, opens our eyes, renews our faith, forgives our sins. We are truly blessed.
In him alone do I find a new beginning. Hallelujah Amen!
*PRAISE SONGS
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE
PRAYER BLESSING for CHILDREN (Unison - Congregation may remain seated.)
Holy Spirit, enter into these children, each one a temple of God, so they may bear all the good fruit of your presence in their lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Show them their spiritual gifts and how to use them in ministry to others. Amen.
Please note: Sunday School is in recess today.
SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM – Rev. Albert Siebert
Being baptized today is Luke Visagie, born April 7 to Leré and Anina Visagie.
SOLO, Marésa Gibson Parents’ Prayer
God’s Opened Word
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
SCRIPTURE TEXT John 14:15-21 (p. 764)
MESSAGE “Love Christ, Keep His Commandments, Receive the Spirit!”
PRAYER OF THANKS
God’s Children Celebrating Him
PRESENTATION OF OUR TITHES and OFFERINGS/OFFERTORY
*DOXOLOGY and OFFERTORY PRAYER (Unison)
God of grace and renewal, we present these offerings for your blessing. Through the power of your Spirit and the ministries of this church, use them to relieve the bondages of sin, spiritual ignorance, complacency, fear, abuse, physical and emotional disease and pain, poverty, hunger, and whatever other disabling burdens we and those around us may be suffering. Amen.
ANNOUNCEMENTS CONCERNING THE FAMILY OF GOD
PASTORAL PRAYER
*HYMN #632 The Lord’s Prayer
*BENEDICTION and 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
PLEASE NOTE: Consistory has accepted the nomination of Dave Ennis
to serve the 6 months remaining in Ann VanBuren’s term as Elder.
EVENTS COMING IN JUNE:
JUNE 4, ANNUAL ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT PANCAKE BREAKFAST AT KRC
AND KRC BAKE SALE IN THE KINDERHOOK VILLAGE SQUARE
All are welcome to come and to invite family and friends to a delicious pancake breakfast this Saturday, June 4, 8 – 11 am, in the KRC Fellowship Room. No reservations needed – free-will donations accepted. All proceeds will go to a local, non-profit, faith-based charity. Ask a member of the missions ministry how you can help with this event.
Please sign up at the back table to donate baked goods to KRC’s annual bake sale which will be held from 10 am to 4 pm Saturday in Kinderhook Square. Bring donations to the church Saturday between 8 and 9 am, or directly to the bake sale table in the Square. All proceeds will go to benefit the KRC Building Restoration Fund. Please contact Laura Rafferty with any questions you may have.
(Continued on next page.)
JUNE 7, GARDEN WORKSHOP
Kerry Mendez of Perennially Yours will be the leader of this workshop hosted by Evangelism Ministry on Tuesday, June 7, 6:30 - 8 pm. Please pick up a flyer from the back table for more details, and plan to participate in this informative presentation.
JUNE 11, KRC’S PLANT SWAP/SALE AND BAKE SALE
Contributions from your garden and kitchen would be most welcome for this annual event sponsored by Evangelism Ministry, Saturday, June 11, 9 am to Noon. See Maureen or Lori for more information.
JUNE 12, SUNDAY SCHOOL YOUTH CELEBRATION
AND CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
We will be celebrating KRC’s Sunday School youth and staff Sunday, June 12, during Worship. Immediately after Worship, a brunch will be served followed by a congregational meeting. Please plan to attend and be a part of these events.
Next Sunday is Communion Sunday, which has been designated for the presentation of gifts, over and above regular giving, to the Benevolent Fund. Please support this important ministry which provides assistance to needy church family & community members
MANY THANKS AND BLESSINGS TO THE KRC FAMILY FOR THEIR GENEROSITY IN SUPPORT OF THE VALATIE FOOD PANTRY. In the month of April, the Pantry served 86 families for a total of 140 adults & 142 children, including 43 handicapped individuals and seniors. 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.
~ BIRD’S-EYE FINANCIAL REPORT, MAY 2011~
Income, May 1 to 28, 2011 $11,157
Bills Paid, May 1 to 28, 2011 $12,530
Current Checkbook Balance $1,858
Outstanding Bills
Ministry Expenses $1,570
Pastoral Services and Personnel $1,890
Classis Assessment, Quarter 2 $1,678
TOTAL Outstanding Bills $5,138
General Reserves Investment Account Balance, May 1 $40,302
Benevolent Fund Available Balance $1,658
Renovation Fund Available Balance $5,489
FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK
Putting the Emphases where It Belongs!
As flooding and severe weather continues and tornadoes cause destruction in the Southern and Midwestern United States, I hear of more and more people who fear the end of the world is at hand. Frankly, being ready for the end of the world that is at hand because God says so, and fearing that the end of the world is at hand and rushing around selling all you possessions and giving up your children’s collage funds, are two very different things. The Bible is clear about two things in this regard. Plainly said, He is coming and no one knows when He is coming. For believers this is good news, and we need not fear the coming of the Lord. Fearing the Lord, not the coming of the Lord, is the beginning of wisdom Proverbs 9:10 says.
When reading Luke 21:25-28, the alarmist emphasizes verses 25-26. Prophets emerge from everywhere, capturing all who are willing to listen. They preach destruction, fuel fear, and call it evangelism. The believer focuses on verses 27-28, and with a glad heart awaits the glory of God, stands up, and with eyes on high prays, Maranatha, “Come Lord Jesus, Come.” – 1 Corinthians 16:22, Philippians 4:5, and Revelation 22:20.
Towards the end of the month we will be hearing the Word of God on this topic, so . . . be ready for it. Before we get to the End-of-the-World sermon, we will be celebrating Ascension Day, Pentecost, and Father’s Day.
Christians observe Christ’s ascension on Ascension Day, which this year will be on June 2. KRC will celebrate Christ’s ascension during our worship time on June 5th. Our sermon schedule for June looks as follows.
June 5 Acts 1:6-14 Celebrating Ascension Day
June 12 John 7:37-39 Pentecost
June 19 Deuteronomy 6:4-9 Fathers Day
June 26 Matthew 24:36-51 The End of the World is Neigh
Our congregational meeting, pancake breakfast, plant swap, and bake sale activities will also be taking place this month, and we hope you will be able to join us for all these events. As always, and especially with the upcoming summer vacation, you are asked to be faithful, if possible, with your tithing even for those Sundays that you cannot make it to church.
I would like to leave you with the following three scriptures for this month: First, in the light of the doomsday prophet’s messages, Isaiah 31:13, “For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.” and 1 Corinthians 14:33, “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.” Secondly, in the light of the pain and annihilation caused by nature and natural phenomena in the Heartland of our nation. Romans 8:35 and 38-39, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? . . . For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
I pray that, as we grow together in Christ and His guidance through the Holy Spirit, and as we gladly await His second coming, we will glorify Him in all we do.
Pastor Rudy
Remember to Pray for
• Those whose families and friends are praying for their salvation or other spiritual needs
• 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 who have lost loved ones, suffered personal injury, and lost homes and businesses in the recent tornado in Joplin, Missouri
• Families and friends grieving the loss of loved ones, especially John and Sara Schubert and family grieving the recent death of John’s mother, Florence; and the Martinez Family and friends at the loss of Linda Martinez, friend of Patti and Paul Varga
• Those, especially children, suffering natural disaster, abuses of war and violence, exploitation, neglect, family hostility
• Ginger, sister of Bill Nieman, diagnosed this past week with a stage 4 brain tumor
• Others dealing with cancer: Ken Scofield; Joann Marvin; Rick; Matt; Tom Saulpaugh; Walt; Joe; Jennifer Kline; Julie’s aunt; Dave’s wife; Connie; Carin; Donna Scalera
• Those awaiting test results or surgery; recovering from surgery, injury, or illness; chronically ill; or in hospice care: Jonah Meldrim; Judy Krumpus; Sue; Romona Den Besten; Noreen Dick's cousin, Judy; young Greg Clause; Priscilla Frisbee; Gordie VanBuren; Marge Johnson; Faity Tuttle; Florence Rivera; Ron Stockhoff; Dawn VanBuren; Ken Smith; Merrill & Erika Johnson; George Clowe; Kathy Schneider’s father in Barnwell; Paul Varga
• Those facing challenges, conflicts, difficult decisions: Libby Little; caregivers of children with health/developmental issues, especially Ashley & Mike, expecting twins in June who may be born with possible medical problems; 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
• Those caring for the elderly, displaced, disabled, or ill, especially the Schuberts and Diane Morgan
• 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, recently engaged; Gary and Sarah (Hubel) March, and Andrew & Melissa (Call) Welcome, recently married; Dave and Beth Ennis would like to announce that their daughter, Kelly Ennis Babic, and husband Brad, are expecting a baby girl in early September - please keep them in your prayers; first-time parents, Nicole (Baby Arianna), and Ryan & Jennifer (Deane) Anderson (Baby Grace); new parents, Leré & Anina Visagie (Baby Luke); Luke & Ryan (Hacker) Morris (Baby Jocelyn); Kate (Little) & Chris Stevens (Baby Vivian Elise)
• Those who are traveling, especially the Schuberts and daughters, Lisa and Sara Lynn
• Our military men and women, especially Courtney Hemmert; 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
• Faity Tuttle, still recovering her full strength following recent surgery, but up and active
• The substantial improvement in Gordie VanBuren’s condition
• The wonderful ways God shows his love to us, especially during difficult times
•
• The excellent report from Dave and Beth Ennis that their daughter, Kara Ennis Mobley, successfully completed her 6th and hopefully last reconstruction surgery; in addition, all scans were negative – praise God for this wonderful news and many thanks for your prayers!
• Sparing young Greg Clause, son of Greg and grandson of Paul and Joan Clause, serious injury following a recent accident in which his car was totaled
• 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
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, Consistory Vice-President, Worship,
Pastoral Relations, Personnel – ’11 758-7564
Patti Varga, Christian Education – ‘12 392-4771
KRC STAFF
KRC Secretary Cemetery Supervisor/KRC Sexton
Paul Clause – 859-4158 Greg Clause – 369-8472, 758-1338
COMING EVENTS
Sun., May 29
10:00 am Baptismal Worship
Please note: Sunday School and Adult Bible Study will not meet May 29.
11:00 am Baptismal Reception, Fellowship Room
Tues., May 31
7:00 pm KRC Youth Group meets
Thur., June 2
10:00 am Community Prayer Group meets @KRC
Sat., June 4
8:00 – 11:00 am KRC’s Annual Pancake Breakfast
10:00 am – 4:00 pm KRC Bake Sale, Kinderhook Village Square
Sun., June 5
10:00 am Worship and last session of regular Sunday School Classes
11:00 am Fellowship and Refreshments, Fellowship Room
11:15 am Adult Bible Study, main floor conference room
Tues., June 7
6:30 pm Garden Workshop with Kerry Mendez of Perennially Yours
Sat., June 11
9:00 am – Noon KRC Plant Swap/Sale and Bake Sale
Sun., June 12
10:00 am Worship and celebration of Sunday School youth and staff
Please Note: Sunday School will be in summer recess after June 12.
11:00 am Brunch and Congregational Meeting
Please Note: Adult Bible Study will not meet June 12.
Wed., June 22
7:00 pm Interfaith Baccalaureate Service, St. John’s, Valatie
Servers Next Sunday, June 5, 2011
Ushers: Ted Call, Jerry Flansburg, Arnie March, Glenn Warren
Greeter(s):
Nursery:
