April 15, 2012

Kinderhook Reformed Church Worship Service
Route 9 & Church Street, Kinderhook, NY
10:00 A.M. APRIL 15, 2012
“To Know Christ and to Make Him Known”
Rev. Rudy Visser, Pastor

A WARM WELCOME TO VISITORS
Please sign our Guest Book at the church entrance and to fill out a pew card and place it in the offering plate.

Ushers: Alan Dick, Merrill Johnson, Leré Visagie, Paul Zietsman
Greeter(s): Dave and Beth Ennis
Preschool Nursery facility is available downstairs.


Our appreciation to those whose donations provided the Easter lilies decorating our pulpit area:


Virginia Rothermel, 
in loving memory of Ed, Bill & Paul Rothermel, and Justin Lynch

Noreen and Alan Dick     Mid Glass      Bill and Suzanne Nieman     
Sue Patterson      Florence Rivera     

Order of Worship

  PRELUDE
  WELCOME, SILENT PRAYER, & PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
  VOTUM and GOD’S GREETING
Boldly Approaching Our God

  CALL TO WORSHIP  (Responsive) 
       The Lord is great! Let the people rejoice!
Our joy is found in you, O God!
        The Lord brings hope! Let the people rejoice!
Our hope is found in you, O God!
        The Lord has saved us! Let the people rejoice!
Our salvation comes from you, O God!
        The Lord is great! Let the people rejoice!
We rejoice in you, O God!
*HYMN OF PRAISE #262                                                        Rejoice, the Lord Is King
  CALL TO CONFESSION
        Beloved, we are God’s children because of the love God has for us, yet we do find ourselves failing to respond to His outpouring of love. Let us confess our sins together.
  PRAYER OF CONFESSION (Unison) 
All:  Merciful and risen Savior, we claim to be people of the resurrection, yet we confess that far too often we do not experience resurrection power.
Women: Our prayers are anemic and our faith is shallow. We compartmentalize our lives, placing you on the sidelines of our work, family life, and play.
Deacon:  We take too much for granted and fail to thank you for the blessings of health, relationships, and freedoms.
All: We fail to be good stewards of your creation, and we become discouraged by problems, limitations, and failures.

[Moment of Silence]

Elder: Gracious God, forgive our shortsightedness and our lack of trust. Help us to see that you are at work in our lives and in the world.
All: Inspire us to hold fast to you in faith, knowing that you are working all things for good, and that because of the empty tomb, we have nothing to fear.  Amen.
GOD’S ASSURANCE OF PARDON
Christ forgives the most impossible sins, overcomes the greatest fears, comforts the loudest cries, and breaks down the strongest barriers to his love and peace. Through the resurrection, Christ’s power in the Holy Spirit lives and works here and now. Brothers and sisters, know that we are forgiven, and be at peace. Alleluia, Amen!
  PRAISE SONGS  (Insert)                                        Dare to Believe   Because He Lives
  CHILDREN’S MESSAGE and PRAYER BLESSING  (Unison)
Lord, lead our children to trust not in their own good works, but only in Jesus’ righteousness and sacrifice for their salvation; assure them that, through faith in Jesus, their souls are secure in your hands for all eternity.
 
We Come Before God’s Open Word
  PRAYER for ILLUMINATION   
  SCRIPTURE LESSON                                                              John 20:19-31 (p.769)
  MESSAGE -                       “Blessed Are They Who Do Not See, but Believe."
  PRAYER OF BLESSING
  PROFESSION OF FAITH (Article 1, 2 & 3)       
We believe in the triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, who gathers, protects, and cares for the church through Word and Spirit.
   This, God has done since the beginning of the world and will do to the end.
We believe in one holy, worldwide Christian church, the communion of saints called from the entire human family.
   We believe that God has entrusted the church with the message of      reconciliation in and through Jesus Christ;
We believe that the church is called to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world.
   We believe that the church is called blessed because it is a peacemaker;
We believe that the church is witness both by word and by deed to the new heaven and the new earth in which righteousness dwells.
We declare Jesus as Lord over all!  Amen.
                                                                      
Celebrating God
  PRESENTATION OF OUR TITHES and OFFERINGS / OFFERTORY
*DOXOLOGY
  OFFERTORY PRAYER  (Unison)
          Father God, we bring you these gifts that represent the partnership we share with you in proclaiming your gospel. Grant us a sense of our unrecognized abilities and our many opportunities – and the heart to be good stewards of your grace.  Amen.
  ANNOUNCEMENTS CONCERNING THE FAMILY OF GOD
  PASTORAL PRAYER and THE LORD’S PRAYER
*HYMN #295              Breathe on Me, Breath of God                                     
  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
KRC SMALL GROUPS
KRC’s small groups, offered on Thursdays at 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., will be continuing their studies 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.
  

ANOTHER INSPIRING PROGRAM IN
KRC’S “CONCERTS IN THE VILLAGE” SERIES
UNDER THE MUSICAL DIRECTON OF DAVID SMITH
3 P.M. TODAY, APRIL 22
HERE AT KINDERHOOK REFORMED CHURCH
~ A KRC TRICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION EVENT ~

MUSIC FOR VOICES, ORCHESTRA, AND ORGAN
INCLUDING WORKS COMPOSED BY HANDEL
AS EARLY AS 1707, WHEN HE WAS ONLY 22, AND AS LATE AS 1739

Chandos Anthems “O be joyful in the Lord” & “O sing unto the Lord a new song”
organ concerto “The Cuckoo and the Nightingale”
virtuoso cantata “Salve Regina”, and Sonata in e minor

Featuring guest artists soprano Amanda Boyd & flutist Sharon Levin, instrumental ensemble, and chorus
Suggested Contribution ~ $15
This concert is supported in part by grants from the Columbia County Council on the Arts and by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation.
-----------------------------------
Volunteers are needed to help make refreshments
for the reception following the concert. 
Please consider making an item that can be eaten without utensils,
and sign-up on the sheet at the back table. 

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND:  MANHATTAN CLAM CHOWDER
Soup orders are now being taken until April 22nd for this sumptuous soup.  Pints are $6.00, quarts are $12.00.  The sign-up sheet is on the back table of the church.  Soup will be delivered in the Fellowship Hall on April 29th following worship.


                                      FLAVORS
THE KINDERHOOK REFORMED CHURCH COMMEMORATIVE COOKBOOK.
The cookbook committee has selected, cooked, and photographed recipes submitted by members of the congregation.  It is now time to publish the cookbook, and we need your help!  Please consider making a donation to this project. If you would like to participate, make a check out to Kinderhook Reformed Church with “cookbook” on the memo line. 

CONTRIBUTORS OF $100 OR MORE WILL RECEIVE
A FREE COOKBOOK UPON  PUBLICATION.


PLEASE JOIN THE CRAFTS GROUP, THE “ESSENES” - Dawn Tuttle, Jane Deane, and Joy Bertram - FRIDAYS AT 9:30 AM IN THE FELLOWSHIP HALL. We are creating items for the KRC fair/bazaar which will take place November 3.  The Essenes were an ancient Hebrew group known for their devotion to God, and we honor them with our crafting.  Please save wine corks and plastic grocery bags for use in this project.  A box is available in the room across from the church office for collecting these materials.


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 death of Dominique Fraresso, especially Dominique's husband, Thierry, her two sons, Florian and Sylvian, and her dear friend, Isabelle Bosquet-Morra; also remember Arnie and Claudia March mourning the passing of Arnie's father, Charles March; Tana Strom on the recent passing of her father, Edwin Thompson;
• others dealing with cancer: Dick; Melissa M., diagnosed with stage 4 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:  Dave Mooney; Jean Keegan; Ruth F. and Ruth C; Irene Smith; Baby Brooklyn Faith Meyer; Cliff Konkle, Harriet Stockhoff; Jim Baker's mother; Joan Clause; Florence Rivera; Gordie Van Buren; Sue Jones; Ron Stockhoff; Ken Smith; Kathy Schneider’s father in Barnwell; Paul Varga.
• those who are traveling, especially the Zietsmans visiting family in South Africa.  The Zietsmans will be returning home shortly after Easter.
• those facing challenges, conflicts, difficult decisions: Kara (Ennis) Mobley; 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, especially George in South Africa; 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 our 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.
• Pete McCardle, friend of the Clauses, has been discharged from the hospital and is now home and on his way to a full recovery from his bout with MRSA.
• Patricia Taliaferro, who is recovering well following a recent cardiac procedure
• Jim Baker’s mom, home and coming along well following a pacemaker implant.
• the very successful Easter Egg Hunt, which included the telling of the Easter story of Jesus' resurrection; the enjoyment had by the 90 kids and parents who attended; and for those who worked so faithfully to coordinate and provide this community outreach, especially Patti Varga and all those who assisted her from KRC and Muitzeskill Reformed Church.

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
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, 3rd annual Lessons & Carols with organist David Smith & choir

                                      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.        

 

Deborah Spaulding (1st), Annake Visser (6th), Beth Anne Rippel (11th), Anne-Marie Zietsman (11th), Diane Morgan (14th), Bill Nieman (16th), Arnie March (17th), Cydney Rippel (22nd), Paul Zietsman (29th).

 


NAMI, (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is sponsoring a program, the "Family-to-Family Education Program," as part of a nationwide commitment to provide a free series of classes to help families of adults with serious mental illness understand and cope with the challenges of this difficult life experience.  If you are interested in this opportunity, or know of others who might be, additional materials are available on the back table for your reference.


During the month of April, Northeast Health/ Eddy Lifeline is offering free installation (normally $50) of a Lifeline 2-way emergency response system.  If you know someone who lives alone, or has a tendency to fall, or who is recovering from recent surgery and might benefit from this protection, call is 833-1040. Monthly cost of Lifeline after free installation is $38.

MANY THANKS AND BLESSINGS TO THE KRC FAMILY FOR THEIR GENEROSITY IN SUPPORT OF THE VALATIE FOOD PANTRY.  The Pantry served 90 families in February, including 161 adults and 102 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 church entryways.

 


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.

COMING EVENTS
Today, April 15
    10:00 am  Worship and Sunday School
    11:00 am  Coffee hour in honor of Priscilla Frisbee
        and her years of work as Church Historian
     11:15 am  Adult Sunday School meets, main floor conference room      
                Stonecroft study group meets, main floor classroom
Mon., April 16
7:00 pm Consistory meets
Thurs., April 19
6:30 pm  300th Committee Meeting
Sun., April 22 Deadline for Soup Orders (Manhattan Clam Chowder)
     10:00 am  Worship and Sunday School
     11:15 am  Adult Sunday School meets, main floor conference room  
                Stonecroft study group meets, main floor classroom
3:00 pm  Concerts in the Village presents “Glory of Handel”
Sat., May 5
     11:00 am Pampered Chef Party in Fellowship Room -
       all proceeds to benefit Family Church Ministry
Sun., May 6  9th Annual Crop Walk - Please see Patrice Lyons
                                    to sign up or donate.
Sun., May 20
     10:00 am  Worship and Sunday School
     11:15 am  Adult Sunday School meets, main floor conference room    
                Stonecroft study group meets, main floor classroom
2:00 - 5:00 pm KRC KEYNOTE TRICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
2:00 - 4:00 pm Short organ recital with David Smith; historic
documents and artifacts display; and other memorable events
  celebrating KRC’s 300 years of “Knowing Christ & Making Him Known”     
         in Kinderhook, its surrounding communities, and far beyond.
4:00 pm Keynote Celebration Worship Service - A portion will be presented in Dutch, and a reception will follow the service.


Servers Next Sunday, April 22, 2012
Ushers:   Dave Ennis. Will Ferguson, Chuck Rothermel, Andrew Welcome
Greeter(s): Bob and Karen Horn
Nursery Supervisor:  Suzy Nieman