Kinderhook Reformed Church Worship Service
Route 9 & Church Street, Kinderhook, NY
10:00 a.m. November 27, 2011 - First Sunday in Advent
“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: Jim Dunham, Gary Leggett, Bruce and Matt Moore
Greeter(s): Jean Hacker
Preschool Nursery facility is available downstairs, Joy Bertram supervising.
Flowers are given today by Rudy and Elize Visser
in thanksgiving for the blessing of family and friends.
Order of Worship
PRELUDE
WELCOME, SILENT PRAYER, and PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
VOTUM and GOD’S GREETING
Boldly Approaching Our God
CALL TO WORSHIP (Responsive)
PASTOR: Hope has come; let the people rejoice!
PEOPLE: Bring songs of praise to worship the Savior
who has come to Earth.
ELDERS: Come with shouts of joy to honor the God who took on flesh.
PEOPLE: Lift up your voices to the King who forever reigns on high.
DEACONS: Hope has come; let the people rejoice!
PEOPLE: The Son of God is among us, bringing hope to all people.
PASTOR: Hope has come; let the people rejoice!
ALL: Give us a faith that is sure of what we hope for
and certain of what we do not see. (Hebrews 11:1)
AROUND THE ADVENT WREATH (Responsive)
LEADER: Today we light the first candle of the Advent wreath. This is the candle of HOPE. (Purple candle is lit.)
PEOPLE: With Christians around the world, we use this light to help
us prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of God’s Son, our
Savior, Jesus Christ.
LEADER: May we receive God’s light as we hear the words of the prophet, Isaiah, chapter 9, verse 2: "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has dawned." Let us pray together:
ALL: Lord, as we look to the birth of Jesus, grant that the light of your
love for us will help us to become lights in the lives of those around us.
Prepare our hearts for the joy and gladness of your coming, for Jesus is
our hope. Amen.
*HYMN OF PRAISE #133 O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
INVOCATION
CALL TO CONFESSION
PRAYER OF CONFESSION (Unison)
Merciful God, we are a people conditioned to measure truth by proof and evidence, by the testimony of witnesses and the testing of our knowledge. In Jesus Christ you gave us evidence of your supreme love for us, yet we still refuse to accept it. We so often dismiss your action in our lives as coincidence and take credit for the blessings we receive from you. Forgive us, Lord, we pray. Forgive our short attention spans, our insatiable desire for the new and glittery, and our disdain for the old and familiar. Grant us the grace to be still, to listen, and to respond to the leading of your Spirit. Amen.
ASSURANCE OF PARDON
This saying is true and worthy of full acceptance: Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners. Friends, hear the good news and believe: In Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. Hallelujah! Amen!
PRAISE SONGS
BLESSING UPON OUR CHILDREN (Unison)
Lord, bathe our children in restful, confident hope as they trust, not in their own good works, but only in Jesus for their salvation; assure them that through faith in Jesus and his righteousness, their souls are secure for all eternity. Amen.
We Come Before God’s Open Word
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION (Unison) Based on Psalm 43
O God, our joy and our delight, our Savior in whom we put our hope, send forth your light and your truth. Let them guide us; let them bring us to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. Amen.
SCRIPTURE LESSON Psalm 80: 1-7 & 17-19 (p. 419)
MESSAGE “Restore Us O God, O Giver of Hope.”
PRAYER OF BLESSING
Celebrating God
PRESENTATION OF OUR TITHES and OFFERINGS/OFFERTORY
*DOXOLOGY and OFFERTORY PRAYER (Unison)
O Giver of good gifts and Giver of grace, we give back but a portion of all we have, that we might learn to hold on loosely. O Provider and Sustainer, see us through times of plenty and times of want, that we may know you alone are God. Amen.
ANNOUNCEMENTS CONCERNING THE FAMILY OF GOD
PASTORAL PRAYER and THE LORD’S PRAYER
*HYMN #150 What Child Is This?
*BENEDICTION, BLESSING, & 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
Consistory would like to encourage each active, confessing member of the congregation, who has not already accepted a nomination to membership on Consistory, to prayerfully consider serving in the office of either elder or deacon. One elder and one deacon are still needed in order for Consistory to be able to carry out, in a timely and efficient manner, the many duties and responsibilities it will be facing over the coming year. Consistory is willing to accept a one-year commitment to service in either of these offices. Please contact Pastor Rudy as soon as possible if you feel God may be calling you to this ministry.
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.
~KRC SANCTUARY DECORATION~
Worship Ministry will be decorating the church for the Christmas Season this coming Thursday, December 1st, from 9 a.m. until noon. To offer your services to the ministry of beautifying our sanctuary in celebration of the birth of our Lord, please contact Dawn Van Buren.
~CAPITAL CITY RESCUE MISSION MEN’S GIFT PROGRAM~
Please share with us in bringing some warmth and caring for many who might not have any “Holiday Cheer” in this troublesome time. KRC collects gifts for homeless men, and Capital City Rescue Mission distributes 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 treat that will not crush or melt. Mark LG or XLG on the outside of package, tape securely, and return to the church collection boxes by December 13.
ANGEL TREE GIFT PROGRAM~
Gift needs for Angel Tree’s children of prisoners are now on angel cut-outs on the Christmas tree in the church’s main entrance. The angels contain very specific age, size, and gift-request information from a particular child. Please return your gifts to KRC by Sunday, December 11. They will bring Christmas joy to those Christ blessed and of whom he said, “The kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
~CHRISTMAS BAZAAR~
The Reformed Dutch Church of Schodack at Muitzeskill will be holding its annual Christmas Bazaar Saturday, December 3, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The church is located at Schodack Landing Road and Muitzeskill Road in Schodack. The Bazaar will include new and gently used Christmas decorations, cards, gifts, books, a luncheon cafe, and a bake sale.
CANDLELIGHT NIGHT IN KINDERHOOK VILLAGEE
KRC will sponsor its annual Candlelight Night Open House 6 – 8:30 p.m. Friday, December 9, featuring the beauty of our 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 sign up on the sheets provided at the back table, and contact Maureen Mooney if you can help with this outreach ministry.
~SOUTHERN COLUMBIA COMMUNITY CHOIR~
The Southern Columbia Community Choir will present "Down From His Glory - The Love Story of Christmas,” 4 p.m. Sunday, December 11, at the Reformed Church of Germantown, 20 Church Avenue, Germantown, NY. A free will offering will be donated to a local charity. Everyone is welcome, and refreshments will be served following the concert.
SUNDAY SCHOOL CHRISTMAS PAGEANTS
As part of our Worship Service Sunday, December 11, KRC’s Sunday School children will be celebrating the birth of Jesus with the presentation of their Annual Christmas Pageant.
LESSONS AND CAROLS
We are looking forward to a large and enthusiastic gathering for Kinderhook Reformed Church’s 2nd annual Celebration of Lessons and Carols, scheduled for 4 p.m. Sunday, December 18. The Celebration, which emphasizes the rich sung and spoken traditions of the season, derives from England in the late 19th century. It tells the story of the fall of humanity, the promise of the Messiah, and the birth of Jesus in nine short Bible readings from Genesis, the prophetic books, and the Gospels, interspersed with the singing of Christmas carols, hymns, and choir music. In its many modifications, the Celebration is presented throughout the world and in a diversity of denominations during the Christmas season. Please mark your calendars, and plan to attend this deeply meaningful and beautiful Worship Service.
MUCH APPRECIATION TO THE KRC FAMILY FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE VALATIE FOOD PANTRY, which served 105 families in October, including 180 adults & 139 children. Also, 133 Thanksgiving baskets were delivered to needy families, and KRC alone contributed 318 food items to this effort! Thanks to all who participated for your generosity. Non-perishable foods that are always popular at the pantry 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.
DROP IN THE BUCKET PROGRAM
The Missions Ministry continues its “Drop in the Bucket” program for our flood- ravaged neighbors in Schoharie and Prattsville. Funds will be sent to area churches to aid with the recovery and relief efforts. A collection bucket is in the foyer for any donation your heart suggests. Please make checks payable to KRC, with “flood relief” in the memo, and thank you for your support.
KRC SMALL GROUPS
Each week, small group opportunities are offered on Thursday at 9 a.m. and Thursday at 7 p.m. Sally Heimroth is coordinator of the Thursday morning group, and Pastor Rudy the Thursday evening group. You are cordially invited to join one of these groups – Walk-ins welcome!
Orders for 2012 calendars, featuring photographs of Kinderhook by Jim Dunham, are being accepted for a donation of $15 to benefit the Kinderhook Cemetery. To order one of these beautiful calendars, contact Jim, 758-6171.
KRC’s share of support is $6,711 this year for services and resources to be provided for us by the Reformed Church in America at the local, regional, and national levels. EACH MEMBER’S SHARE OF THIS YEAR’S CLASSIS ASSESSMENT HAS BEEN SET AT $80.85, UP $5.85 FROM LAST YEAR. Still, this averages out to only $1.55 per week. All who are able to do so are encouraged to offer, over and above their regular giving, their share of this support. The full share does not have to be given at one time, but may be given in as many increments as are convenient throughout the year. All contributions made for this purpose should be clearly designated, “Classis Assessment.” MANY THANKS TO THOSE WHO HAVE DONATED more than $3,700 TO DATE TO HELP DEFRAY THIS EXPENSE.
TO THOSE IN THE KRC FAMILY CELEBRATING NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS:
Ted Call, Fred Hickman, Claudia March, Joan Van Alstyne
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 planning.
• 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.
• those grieving the loss of loved ones.
• those dealing with cancer: Patricia’s mother; Shelly LoPiccolo; Marcia Smith; Gordon Parker; Donna Scalera; Emese; Joann Marvin; Rick; Matt; Tom Saulpaugh.
• Ron Jensen, Jane Deane’s brother-in-law, recovering from a very successful cancer surgery.
• Susan, recovering from a recent grand-mal seizure.
• Kathy, whose dependency issue is spiraling out of control.
• Patricia Taliaferro, recovering at her daughter’s home from recent and very successful cardiac surgery.
• those awaiting test results or surgery; recovering from surgery, injury, or illness; chronically ill; or in hospice care: Morgan Hickman; Stacey Baker; Patricia and twins; Carol; Gordie Van Buren; Richard Williams; Angie Rivera Maycole; Sue Jones; Betty, sister of Sally Heimroth; Mark VanBuren; Dawn VanBuren; Florence Rivera; Ron Stockhoff; Ken Smith; Merrill & Erika Johnson; George Clowe; Kathy Schneider’s father and Charles March, Sr. in Barnwell; Paul Varga.
• those facing challenges, conflicts, difficult decisions: Libby Little, facing the challenges of a demanding itinerary of speaking engagements – Libby’s October-November schedule is now available on the back table; Olivia and family; those struggling with unnamed issues; 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; first-time parents, Brad and Kelly Ennis Babic (Baby Taylor Marie), and Ryan & Jennifer (Deane) Anderson (Baby Grace); new parents, Leré & Anina Visagie (Baby Luke)
• 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; 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.
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.
• Pastor Rudy Visser, a Spirit-filled preacher of the Word and leader of vision.
• the recent volunteer efforts of Maureen Mooney and those who accompanied her to paint at the Reformed Church in Middleburg.
• the blessing of family and friends.
• the report that Carol, who had neck surgery recently, is home and doing well; Carol did not have to have any “hardware” put in her neck to relieve the compression on her spinal cord. Thanks for your prayers - God is good.
• the good news that Gordie Van Buren continues to do very well at home - baked goods and visits would be welcome!
• the encouraging report that Angie Rivera Maycole is improving steadily each day.
• 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.
KRC 2011-2012 CONSISTORY
Pastor Rev. Rudy Visser, President of Consistory, Classis Delegate
Deacons
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
Dave Ennis ’11 784-9656
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
Today, November 27 – First Sunday in Advent
10:00 am Worship and Sunday School
Please Note: Sunday School will be in recess today.
11:00 am Coffee Hour, Fellowship Room
11:15 am Adult Bible Study, main floor conference room
New Members’ Class with Pastor Rudy
Mon., November 28
7:00 pm Consistory meets
Tues., November 29
7:00 pm KRC Youth Group meets
Wed., November 30
7:00 pm
Thur., December 1
9:00 am – Noon Worship Ministry decorates the sanctuary for Christmas
9:00 am Small Group meets, Sally Heimroth, Coordinator
10:00 am Community Prayer Group meets @ KRC
7:00 pm Small Group meets, Pastor Rudy, Coordinator
Sat., December 3
10:00 am – 2:00 pm Muitzeskill Reformed Church Christmas Bazaar
Sun., December 4 – Second Sunday in Advent
10:00 am Communion Worship and Sunday School Pageant rehearsal
11:00 am Coffee Hour, Fellowship Room
11:15 am Adult Bible Study, main floor conference room
New Members’ Class with Pastor Rudy
Fri., December 9
6:00 - 8:30 pm KRC Annual Candlelight Night Open House
Sun., December 11 – Deadline for bringing Angel Tree gifts to KRC
10:00 am Worship and Sunday School Pageant
11:00 am Coffee Hour, Fellowship Room
11:15 am Adult Bible Study, main floor conference room
New Members’ Class with Pastor Rudy
4:00 pm Southern Columbia Community Choir Concert,
Germantown Reformed Church
Tues., December 13 – Last pick-up of CCRM men’s gift packages @KRC
Sun., December 18
10:00 am Worship and Sunday School
4:00 pm 2nd Annual Celebration of Lessons and Carols Worship Service
Sat., December 23
8:00 pm KRC’s Annual Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Servers Next Sunday, December 4, 2011
Ushers: Jim Baker, Bob Dreier, John Schubert, Loren Speer
Greeter(s): Stan and Joy Bertram
Nursery Supervisor: Nikki Barmen
