May 20, 2012

Kinderhook Reformed Church Worship Service
Route 9 & Church Street, Kinderhook, NY
10:00 A.M. May 20, 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.

Ushers: Jim Baker, Bob Dreier, John Schubert, Loren Speer
Greeter(s): John and Isabelle Bosquet-Morra
Preschool Nursery facility available downstairs.
Our heartfelt thanks to Isabelle Bosquet-Morra
for her arrangement and gift of today’s fresh flowers. 

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

Boldly Approaching Our God

  CALL TO WORSHIP  (Responsive)
Open the gates of the Lord.
Enter and give thanks, and let sounds of joy and victory resound!
     Jesus Christ, whom the God of our fathers
     has raised from the dead, has become our salvation.
He is our strength and our song.
     To Jesus, our only God and Risen Savior,
     be glory, majesty, power, and authority,
     before all ages, now and forevermore!
Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name.
     Make known among the nations what he has done.
Sing to him, sing praise to him.
     This is the day that He has made.
     Let us rejoice and be glad in it! 
*HYMN #72                                                 To God Be the Glory 
  CALL TO CONFESSION – Based on Psalm 53
Our God of abundant love, grace, and mercy looks down from heaven to see if there are any who understand that they are sinful, to see if there are any who seek his face and forgiveness.  Let us not turn away, but let us turn toward him, call upon his name, and confess our sins.
PRAYER OF CONFESSION  (Unison)  Based on the words of the prophet, Malachi
Almighty Lord, we have not set our hearts to honor you, but have shown you contempt by not offering ourselves as living sacrifices acceptable in your sight.  We have not revered your name, and have not remembered your laws or followed your ways.  We have not kept faith with you or with one another.  We have minimized and made excuses for the evils of our sin. In some cases, we have deceived ourselves into believing that our bad behavior was actually the right thing to do.  We acknowledge that we have fallen from grace and are under the curse of our sin, and we seek your mercy upon us. 
[Silent Prayer of Confession]
Forgive us, O Lord, we pray; purify us, and refine us.
Let the righteousness of Jesus Christ rise within us like the sun
with healing in its wings.  Amen.

   ASSURANCE OF PARDON   Based on Isaiah 44:21-23
“Remember these things,” says the Lord.  “You are my servants; I have made you, and I will not forget you.  I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist.  Return to me; sing for joy and shout aloud, for I have redeemed you.”   
In Christ Jesus we are made new! Alleluia! Amen.
  PRAISE SONGS
  CHILDREN’S PRAYER OF BLESSING (Unison)
Loving Father, transform our children into the likeness of your living Son, Jesus Christ. Guard them from the evils of this world, and renew them day by day.  Bring them ever closer to Christ’s perfection, and clothe them in his righteousness.   Amen.

We Come Before God’s Open Word
  PRAYER for ILLUMINATION 
  SCRIPTURE LESSON                                                        Luke 24:44-53 (p. 749)
      MESSAGE            "Revealing the Hidden God-Message . . . Do We Get It?"
  PRAYER OF BLESSING
Celebrating God
  WE GIVE OUR TITHES and OFFERINGS / OFFERTORY
*DOXOLOGY 
  OFFERTORY PRAYER  (Unison)
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.   
  ANNOUNCEMENTS CONCERNING THE FAMILY OF GOD
  PASTORAL PRAYER and THE LORD’S PRAYER
*HYMN #574                                                          Lord Speak to Me, That I May Speak
  BENEDICTION BLESSING & RESPONSE -
  POSTLUDE
KRC’S VBS 2012 - A Program for Kids Age 3 to Grade 8
Christian Ed Ministry is looking for volunteers to teach and to help in our NATIONAL PARKS VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL program June 25th to 29th, 9 a.m. to noon each day. A volunteer sign-up sheet is available on the back table. For additional information about the positive rewards of serving in this ministry and the relatively small time commitment involved, please see Patti Varga.  Forms are also available to pre-register children for this year’s fun, informative, spiritually-nurturing program.  A VBS meeting will be held at 6:30 pm Tuesday, May 22, for all those interested in helping out with VBS. For those who cannot attend the meeting, please contact Patti Varga for more VBS information.

The Muitzeskill Reformed Church has invited KRC youth to join them for a trip to Howe Caverns on Friday, May 25.  Entrance fees are $12 for ages 5-11, $19  for ages 12-15, and $23 for ages 16 and up.  KRC Youth of all ages are invited to attend, but anyone under the age of 10 should be accompanied by a family member.  Please contact Patti Varga if you are interested in attending.

Elize Visser (4th), Joan Clause (5th), Sara Hartman (9th), Brenda Longe (9th), Tom Call (23rd), Andrew Welcome (23rd), Mike Rivera (25th),
Liezl Visser (28th), Anina Visagie (29th), Jerry Flansburg (30th).
Mike Rivera is one of KRC’s residence-bound members. 
We invite everyone to sign his birthday card on the back table.

           KRC’S ANNUAL ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT PANCAKE BREAKFAST
All are welcome to come and to invite family and friends to a delicious pancake breakfast SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 8 – 11 am, in the Fellowship Hall.  Sausage, coffee, and juice will be served along with the pancakes.  No reservations needed – free-will donations accepted.  Each year a different charity is chosen to receive the proceeds, and this year, the Valatie Food Pantry is the recipient.  Information about the Pantry and its services to our community will be on display at the breakfast. Feel free to bring a non-perishable food item to help stock their shelves.
     Outside on that same day, weather permitting, the church will hold its annual Plant Swap and Sale from 8 a.m. - 12 noon. Please consider contributing extra divisions or cuttings from your garden to this popular event. We will set up on Friday, June 1st.  If you have something you need divided, but need help doing this, please contact Maureen Mooney, 210-6079. Maureen will also pick up plants if you cannot drop them off. Anyone who helps at the Pancake Breakfast gets to take advantage of the plant pre-sale Friday evening from 4 - 8 p.m. while we are setting up.

                                 
KRC SMALL GROUPS
KRC’s small groups, offered on Thursdays at 9 a.m. (church) and 7 p.m., (parsonage) will continue their studies this coming Thursday led by Pastor Rudy.  All are invited to join one of these groups, and walk-ins are always welcome!  A new small group study has begun:
“Am I Happy?” – A small group study by Sean McDowell
May 24 - Searching for Happiness despite Circumstances

PLEASE JOIN THE CRAFTS GROUP, "THE OLDE DUTCH AND SUCH" (formerly known as "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.

MANY THANKS AND BLESSINGS TO THE KRC FAMILY FOR THEIR GENEROSITY IN SUPPORT OF THE VALATIE FOOD PANTRY.  The Pantry served 80 families in March, including 128 adults and 92 children. There were also 92 Easter Baskets delivered for the holiday. 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.

   FLAVORS - KRC’S COMMEMORATIVE COOKBOOK
The cookbook committee has selected, cooked, and photographed recipes submitted by members of the congregation.  The book has now gone to press, and we need your help!  Donations to this project are greatly appreciated, and checks may be made out to Kinderhook Reformed Church with “cookbook” in the memo.
CONTRIBUTORS OF $100 OR MORE WILL RECEIVE A FREE COOKBOOK.

Remember to Pray for
• those who do not know Christ, or are struggling in their faith or with other spiritual issues. 
• KRC’s Consistory members and administrative ministries.
• KRC programs & projects and those administering them: Vacation Bible School beginning June 25; church restoration; tricentennial events.
• leaders & those attending KRC’s Sunday School, Youth Group, new small group ministries, adult Bible study, Community Prayer Group, & 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 natural disasters; abuses of war and violence; exploitation; neglect; and family hostility.
• families and friends grieving the loss of loved ones.
• Tammy DeVito, diagnosed with adrenal tumors.
• Amy, suffering a head injury with major concussion and swelling.  Pray also for Amy’s parents during this stressful time.
• others battling cancer: Emese; Joann Marvin; Rick; Matt; Dick; Sal Alessi, recently diagnosed and beginning chemo; Melissa M; Judy Iocco; Stephanie; Ron Jensen; Patricia’s mother; Donna Scalera; Tom Saulpaugh.  
• David Johnson, dealing with health issues.
• Minor Smith, brother of Ken Smith, recovering from double pneumonia, bladder infection, and complications due to diabetes.  Remember also Minor’s wife, Arlene, during this stressful time.
• Romona DenBesten, recovering from recent surgery.
• Raymond McKee, who is seriously ill.
• those awaiting test results or surgery; recovering from surgery, injury, or illness; chronically ill; or in hospice care: Harriet Stockhoff; Kate, sister of Maureen Mooney; Dick Richardson; Jim Baker's mother; Minor Smith; Hope Lane; Joan Clause; Florence Rivera; Gordie Van Buren; Kathy Schneider’s father in Barnwell; Paul Varga.
• a favorable outcome in John’s arbitration case.
• those who are traveling.
• 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:  Ken Smith; Murray Leonardson, and Mike Rivera.
• our military men and women, especially Courtney Hemmert and Will Ryan, - 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.

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.

If you have prayer requests that you would like to have placed on the email and phone prayer chains, please forward them to krc@fairpoint.net or call Paul at 859-4158.  If you are not already on our email prayer list, and would like to receive prayer and praise requests through email, please contact Paul to have your address added. If you do not have email, contact Jane Smith at 758-6442, and she will be happy to include you in the phone prayer chain.


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.
• Matt Plescia's safe return home from Afghanistan.
• the news that Perry Jones’ wife, Sue Jones, who suffered a severe broken ankle several months ago, has been back to work for some time and is able to walk without assistance of any kind.
• a good recovery for Rev. Ron Stockhoff following shoulder replacement surgery.
• the wonderful news that Kara Ennis Mobley’s scans this past week returned negative, and for the very encouraging report from her oncologist.
• the good report that Fred Oles is back to normal routines following successful stent placements.
• Dick and Bev Van Alstyne's safe return to Kinderhook this past week.
• 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. 

RESULTS FROM THE 9TH ANNUAL CROPWALK
114 people participated in THE RECENT CROPWALK.  Nearly $13,000 was raised, and more money is expected to come in!!  Of that total, $690.00 was earned by KRC walkers. Remember, 25% - over $3000.00 - stays locally in support of our food pantries.  THANK YOU to Erica Johnson, Kari Ann Powell, Dawn VanBuren, Melissa and Andrew Welcome, and ALL who contributed to this good cause.

                                      CLOTHING BARN
The North Chatham United Methodist Church’s Clothing Barn, offering good, used clothing at reasonable prices, opened yesterday for the season, and will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. EVERY Saturday through September. The Barn will close with the Lord’s Acre Auction in the fall.  Donations of good used clothing are welcome on Saturdays, or call 721-8318.

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
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, please call 859-4158.

Kinderhook Reformed Church
Today’s Tricentennial Keynote Celebration Events

2:00 P.M.      In the Sanctuary
• Organ Recital – David Smith  
The pipe organ was originally built by William Allen Johnson of Westfield, Massachusetts, who began building organs in 1844.  Johnson was considered one of the best organ builders of his time, using only the finest materials.   The organ was restored in 1999 by Leonard A. Carlson of East Greenbush, New York, who was able to save and use 780 of the original pipes dating from the Civil War period, many of which had been damaged over the years.  288 new pewter pipes were shipped from the Netherlands to complete the ranks.   A wooden parapet was removed that had been separating the pipes from the rest of the gallery, and in its place new, dramatic woodworking was crafted by Mr. Carlson’s son and installed on each side of the rose window to contain and protect the pipes and to allow for a full and impressive view of the window.
• Tour of the Church and the Display of Historical Items
     Outside - Tent
• Book Signing – Authors and contributors, KRC’s commemorative history publication Kinderhook Reformed Church: 300 Years of Faith and Community, will be available to sign your book.
• Cuisine Tasting – Sample recipes from KRC’s 2012 commemorative cookbook, Flavors
3:00 P.M.      Outside
• Butterfly Release - 300 butterflies will be released symbolizing the 300 years that the gospel has been preached from the pulpit of Kinderhook Reformed Church and honoring the Lord for his grace and blessing upon this ministry.
• Ichabod Crane High School Marching Band  Performance
• Ichabod Crane High School Quartet  Performance  
     Outside - Tent
• Book Signing – Authors and contributors, KRC’s commemorative history publication, Kinderhook Reformed Church: 300 Years of Faith and Community, will be available to sign your book.
     Outside
• Photo Op on the front steps & lawn of the church for church family and guests who have come to celebrate KRC’s Tricentennial year 
4:00  P.M.      In the Sanctuary
• Keynote Celebration Worship Service
5:00  P.M.      Fellowship Hall
• Everyone is invited to the Fellowship Hall for coffee and Dutch delicacies.

2012 EVENTS IN CELEBRATION OF OUR 300th YEAR
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 10, Youth Sunday - A celebration of KRC’s Sunday School students and staff as Sunday School recesses for the summer
June 25-29, 9-12 Noon daily “National Parks Vacation Bible School” for ages 3 through Grade 8
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