•THE•

FOCUS
December
2009

This Month
Pastor’s Perspective 2
First Church in Ministry 3-4
Christmas Celebrations 5
Peacemakers Ministry 6-7
First Church in Mission 8-10
First Church News 11-12
Appreciation 13
Opportunities 14-15
In Memory 16
First Church Fellowship 17-18
Opportunities to Serve 19-20
Birthdays & Anniversaries 21
Calendar of Events 22

Wishing you a blessed holiday from the staff at First

Reformed Church. . .

Pastor Perry De Groot

Pastor Stan Vandersall
Tom Hydeen
Ross Enger
Galen Kleinwolterink
Missy Dokter
Aletha Beeson
First Chris & Sherry Lang
Reformed Grace & Herm Oldenkamp
Church Brenda Walhof
420 Central Avenue NW
Orange City, Iowa 51041
737-4909
www.frcoc.org

1 ǁ Page
 Pastor’s Perspective / Disciples’ Journey

Pastor’s Perspective
Rev. Stan Vandersall
Interim Pastor

Advent means ―arrival‖. It is the season of Christmas, when the arrival of Jesus Christ is honored, revered, anticipated.
John 1:4-5 says, ―In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the
darkness, can never extinguish it.‖

May each of us look forward to this season as a time when we are drawn closer to our Lord. Instead of dwelling on past
holidays, let’s look forward to the light of Christ that shines in the darkness. Let’s pray that we will be prepared for
Him, and what He wants for us in the near future. May the joy of knowing Jesus as your Lord and Saviour be the
center of your attention during this Advent.

Another arrival on the scene has been yours truly as an Interim Pastor. You may be wondering if that is really
necessary. What is he going to do anyway for these few months? That is a good question. There are many reasons
to have an Interim. I see my chief purpose to be a good listener, and to be available for the needs of your staff, your
consistory, your search committee, and for each one of you that are part of First Reformed Church. Since my
official retirement from the work of the Synod of the Heartland in 2001, it has been my privilege to serve five
different churches in interim work. I feel the most important job that God gives me is to listen and to encourage.

Two scriptures keep me going. Luke 22:32 is the response to Peter’s denial. Jesus said, When you have turned
back to me, strengthen and build up your brothers.‖ Romans 12:8 says in regard to the gifts we have been given,
―if it is serving, let him serve, if it is encouraging, let him encourage.‖

My goal as an interim pastor is to listen to as many people as I can during these few months. I want to be available to
encourage you in your faith walk and your life together as a church. If you have concerns, don’t be afraid to get in touch. Let’s
have coffee, lunch, or give me a time in your home. I am here to listen to your concerns and to encourage you in your spiritual
walk in any way that I can.

In this season of the advent of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us be joined together in prayer. Let us pray for those who are in
need and for those who need Jesus. Let us pray for First Reformed Church, a place where I believe God has great plans for the
future.
Jeremiah 29:11 puts it, ―For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you, and not to
harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.‖

DISCIPLES’ JOURNEY FOR ADULTS

Belhar Confession - Pastor Perry will continue exploring this confession. If this confession is approved by
the RCA classes, it will be added to the Standard of Unity. The officers of the Classis of East Sioux encourage RCA
members to study this confession and discover what is contained in it.

Spiritual Leadership and Mastering Monday in the Workplace – Steve Roesner concludes his study of lead-
ership this month.

Sunday School Guide continues its study of scripture.

NEW OFFERING – That the World May Know: In the Shadow of Herod. Bob Vander Schaaf will use this
Ray Vanderlaan resource to help us understand the world into which Jesus was born. How appropriate for this time
of year.

2 ǁ Page
 First Church in Ministry
CHRISTMAS: A UNIVERSAL CELEBRATION
Sunday School Christmas Program
December 20th
6:30 PM

The children in Pre-school classes through 6th grade for their Christmas program will take us on a short trip around the
world and share how different people observe the good news of Jesus’ birth. There will be flags, costumes, songs,
scripture reading and some other surprises.

AFTER-PROGRAM COOKIE SOCIAL: Last year more than two score and ten (that’s 50!) bakers (moms, singles,
grandmas, daughters, couples, etc) donated 1 or more dozen homemade cookies for a time of refreshment following the
Christmas program. People stayed and talked and munched and talked and sampled the wonderful variety of sweet treats.

We need 50+ bakers again this year to donate one of the following to share with those who attend the Christmas program:
1. A batch of your favorite Christmas cookies or. . .
2. A batch of cookies made from one of the international recipes, which is on the next page. If you make an international
cookie, be sure to identify what it is and from what country the recipe hails.

Thanks you for your willingness to share and dare something new...

Children’s Worship When children turn 3 years old during the year, they are
welcome to participate in Children’s Worship. These op-
December portunities most often fall on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of
Dec 6 The Church Tells Time each month, January-May. Questions? - contact Tom
Dec 13 Meeting the Christ Child Hydeen, 737-4909.

Consistory

o In an attempt to acquaint the congregation with our church leaders, we will give a brief profile of one elder and one
r deacon each month. This month we feature….
n Elder J. R. Siebersma — I’m in my second year as elder and am serving on the Preaching/Teaching Ministry Team. My
e wife, Audrey, and I have four daughters and two sons and twelve grandchildren. I’m retired and enjoy volunteering at
r the OC Area Health System and other volunteering jobs. We enjoy visiting with our children and grandchildren.

Deacon Rick Hop— I’m a 2nd year deacon and I serve on the Equipping Team. I am a self-employed floor covering in-
staller.
Consistory News & Notes—November
The deacons approved a new vendor policy in the First Reformed Church handbook as follows: ―In an ef-
fort to practice good stewardship, but also to support members of our congregation who support our church, the
board of deacons recommends that, whenever possible, existing members of First Reformed Church who own
businesses be given priority for the item or service to be purchased when prices are competitive. Any item or
service to be purchased which will be over $500 should be let out for quotes (not necessarily low bids).‖
Representing First Reformed Church at next years General Synod in Orange City will be Ted DeHoogh
with Gary TeGrotenhuis as alternate.
The elders accepted the profession of faith of Keegan Mulder
The elders approved the request of baptism by Sarah Jaime for her son, Landon Adan.
The elders accepted the transfer request of Wanda Vande Kieft to the Bethel CRC in Sioux Center.
The elders accepted the requests of Scott Mulder and Jim Plagge that their family memberships be moved to inactive status.
The elders accepted the requests from Mark Turek and Steve Walhof that their family memberships be removed from First Reformed
Church.

3 ǁ Page
 First Church in Ministry
1. Marzipan (Austria)
a. Ingredients
i. 4 oz. almond paste (in tube or block)
ii. ½ c. powdered sugar
iii. 1 T. light corn syrup
iv. 1-2 drops food coloring (or cocoa for
brown)
b. Preparation
i. Break up the paste with your hands in a
small bowl.
ii. Knead in the sugar and corn syrup,
squeezing out all lumps until the paste is
smooth.
iii. Decide what shapes you wish to create,
and add the appropriate food coloring to
small quantities of the kneaded paste. Work
the color in until the paste is evenly colored.
iv. Make small shapes with your hands,
spoons or other utensils. If desired, press
whole cloves into orange and apple shapes
to look like stems.
v. Let dry.
2. Colombes (France)
a. Ingredients
i. ¾ c. butter (slightly softened)
ii. 1 egg
iii. 1 ½ t. baking powder
iv. Chocolate chips or raisins
v. 6 T. sugar
vi. 1 ½ c. flour
vii. 2-3 T. milk
b. Preparation
i. Combine butter, sugar and egg. Mix
well.
ii. Mix baking powder into flour and add
dry ingredients to the creamed mixture.
iii. Knead thoroughly, adding milk 1 T. at a
time until you get a smooth, stiff dough.
iv. Chill for several hours.
v. Heat the oven to 375 deg.
vi. Roll the dough out to ¼‖ thickness with
a floured rolling pin on a floured work sur-
face. Cut the dough with a bird-shaped
cookie cutter. Place on an ungreased cookie
sheet.
vii. Add a raisin or chocolate chip to each
cookie for an eye.
viii. Bake for about 10 minutes until golden.
ix. Cool slightly and remove from pan.
4 ǁ Page
3. Macaroons ( Italy)
a. Ingredients
i. 4 egg whites
ii. ½ t. salt
iii. 2 c. sugar
iv. ½ c. blanched almonds, finely ground in
blender
v. 1 t. almond extract
b. Preparation
i. Preheat oven to 350 deg. Line cookie
sheets with unglazed brown paper.
ii. Beat egg whites and salt until creamy.
iii. Add the sugar about ¼ c. at a
time. Beat until peaks are stiff.
iv. Fold in the almonds and extract.
v. Drop by tablespoons onto the lined
cookie sheet.
vi. Bake about 10-15 minutes until light
brown and dry in appearance.
vii. Let cool slightly, then remove from the
paper.
4. Rolled and Frosted Sugar Cookies (USA and Canada)
a. Ingredients (This recipe makes 4-5 doz.)
i. 1 ¼ c. sugar
ii. ½ c. shortening
iii. 2 t. vanilla extract
iv. ½ t. salt
v. 3 T. sour cream (optional)
vi. ½ c. butter or margarine
vii. 2 eggs
viii. 3 c. flour (plus extra for rolling)
ix. 2 t. baking powder
b. Preparation
i. Lightly flour a clean pastry cloth and
rolling pin cover. Preheat oven to 375 deg.
ii. Cream sugar, butter, and shortening
until fluffy.
iii. Beat in vanilla. Add sour cream if de-
sired.
iv. Add flour, salt and baking powder. Mix
well.
v. Roll about 1/3 of the dough at a time to
about 1/8 – ¼‖ thickness. Cut with any de-
sired cookie cutters.
vi. Bake for 7-10 minutes or until lightly
golden on the bottoms.
vii. Remove from the cookie sheet. Frost
when cool.
 CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS

Celebrations of Christmas at First

You are invited to the worship and musical events celebrating the good news that God demonstrated His unmerited favor to
us and has reached us through His Son.

Each Sunday of Advent (December 6, 13 and 20) our preaching pastors will focus on the angels of Christmas. The Advent
wreath will be lit each Sunday as we get ready for the coming of the promised Savior.

Our preaching pastors will explore the following text:

-December 6 – Pastor Dave Sterk – Luke 1:5-25
-December 13 – Pastor Perry – Luke 1:26-38
-December 20 – Pastor Perry – Matthew 1:18-25
-December 24 – Pastor Perry – Luke 2:8-14

The Ministry of Music each Sunday will provide more venues for praise and reflection. Many musicians will use their gifts
and talents to honor the Lord.

December 6 - The Sanctuary Choir presents the anthem O Come, O Come, Emmanuel. The arrangers of this anthem have
uniquely wedded together the familiar tune with the lyrical tune called ―O Waly Waly‖ (hymn #392 in our hymnal).
December 13 – The Children’s Choir will sing a Swedish carol, Now It is Christmas Time, and play the hand bells for Silent
Night. This is the first time many of the 3rd-5th graders have had any contact with the bells. They are doing a fine job.
December 20 – The Christmas Festival Orchestra, ALLELUIA! Worship Team and the Sanctuary Choir join forces of music
in praise to the God of love and grace. The Orchestra presents the prelude, Praise the Lord, Ye Heavens, Adore Him. This is
an organ solo which has been orchestrated specifically for our Christmas Festival Orchestra. The orchestra accompanies the
worship team and congregation for favorite carols and the praise songs, Good to Me and You Are Holy (Prince of Peace). The
Sanctuary Choir sings several anthems including Good Christian Men, Rejoice; The Heart of the Father; Come, Spread the
Good News; Come On Down to Bethlehem; and ending with the majestic And the Child Grew..

December 20 (6:30 p.m.) Any and all pianists who have a song to play are invited to contact Tom Hydeen in the church
office and you will be included in the prelude time. Your selection should focus on some theme or melody related to the birth
of Jesus.
The children in Pre-school – 6th grade present Christmas – An International Celebration, the 2009 Sunday School Christmas
Program. Songs and customs from around the world will be shared and enjoyed. After the program the congregation is invited
to remain and enjoy a Christmas Cookie Fair in the Fellowship Hall. Many volunteer bakers from the congregation have baked
cookies for us.

Christmas Eve (December 24, 6:00 p.m.) NOTE THE EARLIER TIME. Tonight the Christ Candle of the Advent is lit.
We have come to the time we celebrate Jesus’ birth. The Sanctuary Choir sings two anthems: Under the Stars and On a Silent
Starry Night and daughter and dad, Haley and Paul Janssen, will present a duet fitting for this special worship time. Pastor
Perry will be preaching.
All those who attend (10 years and older) get a small candle and a protective holder. At the close of our service all the can-
dles in everyone’s hands will be lit and the sanctuary will shimmer with a golden glow. The passing of the light from one per-
son to the next down the row is a practice we have not exercised in decades. This will be a candlelight service in the real sense.
May our hearts so glow with the love of God.
Note to parents: Use your discretion concerning younger children managing a candle and the holder.

Sunday School Students Rehearse for Christmas Program

It is time for the students in Pre-school through 6th grade to rehearse for the Sunday School
Christmas Program. We will have two Saturday morning rehearsals – December 12 and 19, 9:30-
11:00 a.m. Please reserve these times to come to your worship area and practice your songs. The
Christmas program is on Sunday, December 20 at 6:30 p.m.

5 ǁ Page
 PEACEMAKERS MINISTRY

A Piece of Peace

What’s all this talk about a peacemakers team? And what

is this Peacemakers Ministry? Many of you may be wondering what is going on here, and what
does it have to do with FRC? Good questions!
The Peacemakers Ministry started in 1982 in Billings, MT. It has grown to a national and
international ministry. The mission of the Peacemakers Ministry is to equip and assist Christians
and their churches to respond to conflict biblically. Respond Biblically to conflict? Is that even
possible? Yes!! For those of us who have been through the small group studies and/or the
training, we have discovered that all conflicts are opportunities to glorify God. And isn’t that
what we are created for?
Over the next weeks and months, you will be hearing a lot more about the peacemakers
ministry. This ministry provides some very practical ways to deal with conflict in our personal
lives, families, churches and businesses. We will all have a chance to examine our way of think-
ing, and ask ourselves, am I choosing to respond to this situation the way God wants me to?
So, be sure to look for the “Piece of Peace” in the bulletins, Focus, worship services, and
some surprises along the way. If you have any questions regarding this ministry, don’t hesitate
to contact any of the team members –
Barry & Lora Brandt (737-4789 or landb@orangecitycomm.net)
Anita Bomgaars (737-4742 or anitabom@orangecitycomm.net)
Randy Stange (737-3349 or stange@longlines.com)
Merilee Pennings (737-3937 or merileepennings@hotmail.com)
Join us in discovering what the Bible teaches about peacemakers!

The Four G’s of Biblical Peacemaking

(from The Peace Maker by Ken Sande)

Glorify God (1 Cor. 10:13). Biblical peacemaking is motivated and guided by a deep desire to
bring honor to God by revealing the reconciling love and power of Jesus Christ. As we draw on
His grace, follow His example, and put His teachings into practice, we can find freedom from the
impulsive, self-centered decisions that make conflict worse, and bring praise to God by display-
ing the power of the gospel in our lives.

Get the log out of your eye (Matt. 7:5). Attacking others only invites counterattacks. This is why

6 ǁ Page
 PEACEMAKERS MINISTRY—continue
Jesus teaches us to face up to our own contributions to a conflict before we focus on what others
have done. When we overlook others’ minor offenses and honestly admit our own faults, our op-
ponents will often respond in kind. As tensions decrease, the way may be opened for sincere
discussion, negotiation, and reconciliation.

Gently restore (Gal. 6:1). When others fail to see their contributions to a conflict, we sometimes
need to graciously show them their fault. If they refuse to respond appropriately, Jesus calls us
to involve respected friends, church leaders, or other objective individuals who can help us en-
courage repentance and restore peace.

Go and be reconciled (Matt. 5:24). Finally, peacemaking involves a commitment to restoring

damaged relationships and negotiating just agreements. When we forgive others as Jesus has
forgiven us and seek solutions that satisfy others’ interests as well as our own, the debris of
conflict is cleared away and the door is opened for genuine peace.

7 ǁ Page
 First Church in Mission

8 ǁ Page
 First Church in Mission

9 ǁ Page
 First Church in Mission

MAC The Missionary Assistance Committee has changed its focus from sending care packages to a monetary gift that
is given to each missionary this church supports. The gift of money will come from money that you have desig-
nated to go to missionaries. This may be done by placing an envelope in the offering plate with ―missionary‖
written on it or the envelope can be placed in the offering boxes located in the fellowship hall. The committee
will continue asking church members for donations each month. Thank you.

Harvey & Carol Vander Pol
Daniel Vander Schaaf
David & Renae Vander Schaaf
John & Gert Vander Schaaf
Bob & Deb Vander Schaaf
Alyce Faye Vander Stoep
Fred & Henrietta Vander Weerd
Paul & Judy Vander Wege
Tim & Ruth VanDer Weide
Jack & Elynor Vander Wilt
Mathilda Vander Wilt
Alan & Linda Vander Zwaag
Claude & Betty Vander Zwaag
Mark & Miriam Vellinga
Harlan & Linda Ver Steeg
Leon & Alice Ver Steeg
Sadie Ver Steeg
Sue Ver Steeg
Wilmina Ver Steeg
Betty Verdoorn
Tony & Ann Verdoorn
Arne & Vicky Vermaat
Ethan & Anna Beth Vermeer
Wallace & JoAnne Vermeer
Kevin & Kara Verschuure
Rod & Polly Visser
Kenneth Vlietstra
Alan & Idelle Vogel
Marianne Wassenaar

SOUP SUPPER
December 9
5:00 - 7:00 PM
First Reformed Church
Fellowship Hall

The money raised will go towards our summer mission trip to

Logan, West Virginia.
This fund raiser is shaping up to be a great meal for fellowship and
tastiness! There will soups, pies and tavern meat provided by the parents
as in the years past.
Please come and support our youth with a free will offering.

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND SEE YOU ON THE 9TH

10 ǁ Page
 First Church News

G.I.F.T.
(Gathering In Fellowship Together)
Annual Christmas Caroling

Tuesday, December 1, 6:30 PM

Fellowship Hall

40-ish to 60-ish-year-olds
are invited

After caroling we will go to the Pizza Ranch for a buffet supper

Questions ? Call Ken/Mary Oldenkamp (756-4233) or Mark/Lynnette Schuller (737-3673)

…………………………………………………………….
All women are invited to the

Women’s Ministries Christmas Program,

Monday, December 7 at 7:00 PM.

Sylvia Hulstein and Betty Vermeer will give a chalk artist presentation.
We will also sing Christmas carols.
The offering will go to the Organ Fund. There will not be a calling tree.

…………………………………………………………….
NWC STUDENTS PRESENT A DRAMA. . . .

On December 6 at 6:30 p.m. NWC students who have been studying the life and
times of John Calvin will present a drama based on his life. We have been privileged
to have several students lead some sessions on Calvin’s influence and work last month.
This drama was written and produced by the students.

11 ǁ Page
 First Church News

Sarah Jaime

Sarah professed her faith

and was publically
received on Sunday,
November 15, 2009.
Sarah is married, to Adan
Jaime, and they have one
CHILDRENS child, Landon
Surprising Stories - Keefer, Mishica, & Rogers She is a stay at home mom (housewife). She
The Amazing Mark - Robyn Supraner
enjoys cooking, baking, and watching movies.
DVD Series
Go Fish - Showtime

CHRISTIAN LIVING SAVE THE DATE

A Gardener Looks at the Fruits of the Spirit - W. Phillip Keller
The Trial & Testimony of the Early Church - Video Series

JUNIOR FICTION
Canyon Quest - Jim Ware
Shroud of the Lion - Sigmund Brouwer All men & women are invited to an
Pilgrims Progress - Laurel Hicks all church open house baby shower
FICTION
for our 2009 First Reformed Church babies!
Gone to Green # 1 - Judy Christie December 6 – 4:00 - 6:00 PM
Forgiven # 3 - Shelly Shepard Gray First Impact
Montana Weddings - Linda Ford
June Bug - Chris Fabry ..............................................
The Missing #2 - Beverly Lewis
Lonestar Secrets #2 - Colleen Coble INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY:
Lonestar Homecoming #3 - Colleen Coble
Shades of Blue - Karen Kingsbury If school (public and/or Christian) on a
Intervention - Terri Blackstock
That Certain Spark #4 - Cathy Marie Hake
Wednesday is canceled due to inclement weather,
The Sound of Sleigh Bells - Cindy Woodsmall there will be NO evening activities at First Re-
A Wish for Christmas #10 - Kinkade & Spencer formed Church. If weather conditions worsen
later in the day, please listen to KSOU (FM93.9),
KDCR (FM88.5) or the Prayer Line (737-8500)
for cancellation details.

Grace Snuttjer Russ Te Grotenhuis

Long Term Care, # 6A Long Term Care, #14B
400 Central Ave. NW 400 Central Ave. NW
Orange City, IA 51041 Orange City, IA 51041

12 ǁ Page
 Appreciation
Again, we are so thankful to so many of you, our church As we come to the end of the year I would like to thank all
family, for your prayers, acts of kindness with visits, calls, those who have helped at the church. From woodworking to
cards and food brought in during my second knee replacement mowing grass, painting or whatever other things that were
surgery and recuperation. Thanks to Pastor Perry, Pastor Ned worked on. Your volunteer ministry was a great help to me as
for their calls, visits and prayers. Above all, thanks to our well as to the whole church.
Lord for healing and for working in the lives of so many in Galen Kleinwolterink
their response of using their gifts in His service. We certainly THANK YOU TO. . .
give our praise to our Heavenly Father. Dave & Helen Huitink for the use of their fall produce and
We also say ―Thank You‖ to the many who sent cards, attractive displays during the Thanksgiving season.
called or attended the open house for our 50th Anniversary The volunteer bakers who will supply cookies for the
given by our children. We have truly been blessed by God for Cookie Fair on December 20 after the Sunday School
the years He has given us. With Thanksgiving & Love, Christmas Program.
Cliff & Arlys Oolman The participants in the Christmas Festival Orchestra, the
I want to thank Pastor Ned & Lois, Pastor Perry and Tom Sanctuary Choir, Sunday School departments and the
Hydeen. Also everyone else for their prayers, cards, visits, ALLELUIA! Worship Team for the extra effort to make music
and for the food brought in after ankle surgery due to my fall. to the Lord during the Christmas celebrations.
God bless you all. Tom Hydeen
Marilyn Bruxvoort A note of thanks to all the people who sent food, cards,
Thank you for your expressions of love and concern when I was and visited during my recent surgery and now
in the hospital & recovering at home after surgery. recovery. Your prayers and kindness are very
We appreciate your many visits, cards, gifts of food much appreciated. God bless all of you.
and prayers. We are thankful for the ways God has Paul E. Vander Wege
been answering your prayers for my healing.
Randy & Karen VanDerMaaten
Dear First Reformed Family, Thank you for your many prayers, cards, kind
Pastor Ned and Lois would like to thank words, and wonderful expressions of love and
you for the generous and kind send-off gift care. Your visits, calls, and food gifts were so
which Deacon Brett Mulder presented to us during the appreciated! What a wonderful family of God! The coop-
morning worship service last month. This will be a great help eration and service making the visitation possible and the
to use in our transition months. We would also like to thank Memorial Service and luncheon carried out so quickly and
all those who helped us pack boxes and load up the Penske well were true gifts. Your words were healing words. The
trucks with our belongings. Thank you for all the other kind visits by the pastors and staff and lay people were very mean-
expressions of love which we received from you this autumn, ingful. God's blessings!
and through the years. The family of Robert Block:
It was our privilege to work among you these last several Vi and family
years. Thank you for calling us here to be among you for that I would like to thank the body of believers at First Church
season of your congregation’s life. We pray that out of His for their concern, prayers, & visits during my recent accident.
glorious riches, God will strengthen you with all power, The pain I suffered was paled in comparison to the awesome
through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may feeling of love & concern I felt during this time. It is my
dwell in your hearts through faith. May He do immeasurably prayer that as I heal, our church continues to experience
more than all you could ask or imagine, according to His healing as well and exhibits care for others with Christ’s love.
power which is at work within you, that you may give Him all First Church came through loud and clear, again thanks so
glory in Christ Jesus through all generations. Blessings to you very, very much. Terry Meekma
all.
The Suffern Family
SAMARITAN’S PURSE FUND RAISER THANK YOU
The family of Phyllis Zeutenhorst would like to thank our church Thank you to every one that helped with the waffle sup-
family and friends for the many expressions of love and concern per and tee shirt sales for the Samaritan’s Purse Fund
during the past year and a half. Special thanks to Pastor Perry and Raiser. A special thanks to Leanne Bonnecroy, Ruth Ly-
Pastor Ned for their fellowship and guidance. Also for all of you
ftogt, Galen Kleinwolterink, and Grace Oldenkamp for
who sent cards, food and came to visit Phyllis. Our beloved wife,
mother, grandma, and great-grandma will be greatly missed.
their help.
John Zeutenhorst The total profit for the fund raiser was $ 2,653.62. Sa-
Tim & Lori Zeutenhorst maritan’s Purse will use these funds to provide assistance
Jan & Dan Berg to needy people that have experienced some type of disas-
and families ter in their life.
Thank you to every one that donated.
13 ǁ Page
 Opportunities

14 ǁ Page
 2010
January/February
Work Project
Opportunities
Harvest Hands Ministries
Anthony, New Mexico
Project will take place in Mexico
JFA invites you to join them Must be signed up for this project by Dec 20
in their Work Projects Ministry. January 23-29
The work projects are wonderful
EXCEL Ministries
and special opportunities to ex-
Okolona, Mississippi
perience God’s Kingdom in fresh January 30--February 13
and new ways!
Voice of Calvary Ministries
‘Yes, we are called to minister Jackson, Mississippi
amongst the ‘least of these’. But the February 13-19
central message of this book is that
we need the person of Jesus Christ to
transform not just the poor but also Cary Christian Center
ourselves.’ Cary, MS
February 20-26
Rev. John Perkins
From his forward to: John M. Perkins Foundation
‘When Helping Hurts’ Jackson, Mississippi
By
Steve Corbett & Brian Fikkert
February 6-12

Salama Urban Ministries

Please pray and consider if Nashville, Tennessee
God is calling you to be part of February 20-26
this Kingdom adventure by
CRC World Missions
serving the ‘least of these’ and Dominican Republic
gaining new understanding of Must sign up for this project by Dec 20
what it means to follow Him. Optional dates in Jan/Feb
You will be changed!

Informational, Orientation, Sign-up Meeting

Tuesday, January 5, 2010 – 7PM – Trinity CRC – Rock Valley, IA
You can also contact Pat at JFA for more information on any of these opportunities.
712-476-2804 or patvp@jfa-nwiowa.org

15 ǁ Page
 In Memory

A. Nelvina Ver Steeg-Thomas

Anna Nelvina was the daughter of John Arie and Anna (Vischer) Ver Steeg. She was
raised in the Middleburg and Orange City area. In 1937, she graduated from the Orange
City Public High School. She then moved to Holland, Michigan, where she attended the
Holland Business Institute. In 1941, she move to Kalamazoo, Michigan,where she later
attended the Mahers Business College.
She continued to live in the Kalamazoo and Parchment, Michigan area, where she was
first a secretary at the Spring Air Company for three years. She then began her

employment with the Upjohn Corporation, which continued for 36 1/2 years. She first worked in the pharmaceuti-
cal marketing department, and later became a supervisor in the fine chemical marketing area. In 1970, she received
the Employee of the Year Award, and she retired in 1977.
On October 19, 1986, Nelvina married Lyle Thomas in Kalamazoo. He passed away on July 27,1987, in Michigan.
In 1988, she returned to Orange City. She became a resident of The Happy Siesta Nursing Home in Remsen in Feb-
ruary of 2008.
She was currently a member of the First Reformed Church in Orange City. In Michigan, she was active member of
the Haven Reformed Church in Kalamazoo, where she served as chairwoman of the music committee and as a mem-
ber of the missions committee for many years. On the classical level, she was a leader of the Girls League for West-
ern Michigan and a member of the missions committee.
Mrs. Thomas enjoyed traveling and had visited Europe, including Spain, Israel and Greece.
Survivors include a stepdaughter, Lynne Smith; and a step-son and his wife, Thomas L. and
Denise Thomas, all of Kalamazoo; four grandchildren and their spouses, Richelle and Joseph Bower, Jennifer and
Chad Lane, Rebecca and Charles Lamb, and Joshua and Amy Hamilton; four great-grandchildren; three sisters-in-
law, Sadie, Wilmina, and Sue Ver Steeg, all of Orange City; and many nephew and nieces.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by three sisters, Carrie Boone, Mable De Haan,
and Henrietta Wesselink; and nine brothers, Jake, Lawrence, Benjamin, Gysbert, Marion, Harold, Wilbur, Clarence,
and infant Clarence Lester Ver Steeg.
.....................................................
Jennie Vande Brake
Mrs. Jennie Vande Brake, age 83, of rural Maurice, passed away on Wednesday,
November 18, 2009, at her farm home.
There was a funeral service on Saturday, November 21, at 1:30pm, at the First
Reformed Church in Orange City. The Rev. Dr. Perry De Groot officiated. Interment fol-
lowed at the West Lawn Cemetery in Orange City.
Jennie was born on January 22, 1926, in rural Newkirk, the daughter of William C.
and Jennie (Van Meeteren) Langstraat. She was raised near Newkirk.
On April 25, 1947, she married Eugene Vande Brake in Orange City. They made their
home on a farm north of Maurice. She was a homemaker and partner with her husband,
as they farmed and operated a repair shop.
Mrs. Vande Brake was a member of the First Reformed Church, where she participated in the women’s activities.
She enjoyed gardening and was an avid reader.
Survivors include her husband of more than 62 years, ―Gene‖; a son and his wife, Kenneth and Rose Vande
Brake, of Alton; two daughters, Jolene De Boer, of Ireton; and Carol, and her husband, Randy Brown, of Chicago,
Illinois; five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; a brother, Peter Langstraat, of Orange City; a sister, Angelina
Torrenga, of Clinton, Wisconsin; and many nephews and nieces.
She was preceded in death by six brothers, Cornie, Dick, William, John, Howard, and Walter Langstraat.

16 ǁ Page
 First Church in Fellowship
Heartland Strategy Mixer
December 2009
To all Snowbirds - Please let me know when you plan on being gone so I can make the schedule
accordingly. Thanks - and have a good winter.
Call Ken/Mary Oldenkamp (756-4233) or John/Lisa Lambert (737-3426) if you’re interested in joining this
group. You can join any time. If you don’t know how to play, you can learn. All ages welcome.

Group 1 Group 2 Group 3

Bill & Kathy Van Marel - 707-4212 Orville & Marge Beltman - 737-4232 Betty Verdoorn & Partner - 737-4471

Marv & Helen Huisman - 737-2302
Nelva Rowenhorst - 737-3029 &
Lori Rowenhorst - 737-8377
Group 4
John & Gert Kamies - 737-4761
Tom & Carla Hydeen - 737-2544
Harlan & Janice Van Roekel - 722-2530
Group 7
Gerald & Marilyn Bruxvoort - 707-4458
Renee Wynia / Sharon Reynen 737-3697
Gene & Thelma Haverdink - 737-8179
Group 5
Paul & Elaine De Jong - 737-2116
Rick Hop - 737-4434 & Dennis Vande
Brake
Dale & Mary Wurpts - 737-4401
Group 8
Whiz & Jackie Punt - 737-4790
Wilbur & JoAnn De Jong - 707-4540
Cliff & Geneva Korver - 737-4666
Group 6
Rog & Dianne De Haan - 737-3331
Tony & Ann Verdoorn - 737-4545
Julie Junck / Kristi Hiemstra - 737-8129
Group 9
Art & Lorna Ter Horst - 737-4604

Pete & Dorothy Karssen - 737-2430
Idelle Vogel - 737-4339 & Helene
Van Grootheest - 707-9308
Group 10
Any Eben & Partner - 707-9105
Linda De Smit & June Van Oort - 737-3776
Herm & Grace Oldenkamp - 707-8657
Dale & Cheryl Hiemstra - 737-3877
Al & Linda Donaldson - 737-3104
Group 11
Galen/ Becky Kleinwolterink - 737-8378
Harlan & Twila Oolman - 737-3326
Arlin & Glenda Brenneman - 737-4069
Randy & Bev Vande Griend - 707-4358
Harlan & Linda Ver Steeeg - 737-8946
Group 12
Jim & Maris Aberson - 737-2496
Jay & Ruth Lyftogt - 737-3369
Harlan & Phyllis De Haan - 737-2418

RULES FOR PLAY

Top name in each group is the host and should arrange with the others in the group a date and time to play during the month.
We are suggesting each group try to play 3 games. Watch the FOCUS for next month’s pairing.
Group hosts should call Ken Oldenkamp, (712) 756-4233 / mloldenkamp@hotmail.com to report win/loss record.
If you need a substitute, you can call Jamey/Rachel Valentine, 707-9268, Randy Van Peursem, 707-4054, or Betty Verdoorn,
737-4471, Evelyn Jones—707-7500 (Marlys Rowenhorst’s sister) or Pete & Dorothy Karssen 737-2430
Or any other Heartland player—or even call someone from the congregation to see if they want to play.
HAVE FUN!!!

17 ǁ Page
 First Church in Fellowship
POINTS STANDINGS Wins/Losses POINTS STANDINGS Wins/Losses
Cliff Korver 30-15 Pete Humme 18-12
Renee Wynia 29-19 Bev Vande Griend 17-22
Galen Kleinwolterink 29-13 Tom Hydeen 17-15

Bill Van Marel 28-14 Idelle Vogel 16-26

John Kamies 28-11 Lori Rowenhorst 16-23

John Lambert 27-17 Lorna Ter Horst 16-20
Julie Junck 26-19 Marv Huisman 16-11
Helene Van Grootheest 26-16 Geneva Korver 15-27
Betty Verdoorn 25-14 Sharon Reynen 15-27

Mary Oldenkamp 24-21 Dianne De Haan 15-18

Rick Hop 24-12 Jim Aberson 15-16

Al Donaldson 23-19 Cornie Keunen 15-12

Paul De Jong 23-10 Ruth Lyftogt 14-22

Ken Oldenkamp 22-23 Amy Eben 14-13

Reasons for playing
Wilbur De Jong 22-23 Dale Wurpts 14-13 Heartland Strategy
Nelva Rowenhorst 22-22 Kathy Van Marel 13-29
1. Meet people at
Arlin Brenneman 22-20 Dennis Vande Brake 13-23
FRC that you
Dale Hiemstra 22-20 Kristi Hiemstra 13-20 do not know.
Randy Vande Griend 22-17 Carol Vande Pol 13-17 2. Become aware
Jay Lyftogt 22-14 Mary Wurpts 13-14 of any needs or
concerns of
Whiz Punt 22-11 Becky Kleinwolterink 12-27
those you play
June Van Oort 21-21 Elma Hiemstra 12-24 with.
Linda De Smit 21-21 Sylvia Humme 12-18 3. Build unity as a
JoAnn De Jong 21-20 Gene Haverdink 12-17 group at FRC.
4. Be considerate
Linda Ver Steeg 21-18 Gert Kamies 11-28
and help those
Tony Verdoorn 21-18 Jackie Punt 11-22 who are learn-
Twila Oolman 21-12 Marge Beltman 11-19 ing how to play.
Harlan De Haan 21-9 Helen Huisman 11-16 5. To praise God
and have a fun
Cheryl Hiemstra 20-22 Alvina Keunen 11-14
time.
Glenda Brenneman 20-22 Gerry Noordhoek 11-7
6. Please invite &
Gerald Bruxvoort 20-18 Elaine De Jong 10-23 encourage oth-
Art Ter Horst 20-16 Phyllis De Haan 10-23 ers to join the
Harlan Van Roekel 20-16 Harlan Oolman 10-20
group.
Thelma Haverdink 20-12 Pete Karssen 10-8

Orville Beltman 19-11 Herm Oldenkamp 10-5

Lisa Lambert 18-27 Grace Oldenkamp 8-13

Ann Verdoorn 18-21 Dorothy Karssen 8-10
Carla Hydeen 18-21 Wanda Noordhoek 7-11

Harlan Ver Steeg 18-21 Randy Van Peursem 5-1

Janice Van Roekel 18-21 Henrietta Vande Weerd 4-2
Linda Donaldson 18-21 Chad Oolman 2-1

Marilyn Bruxvoort 18-20 Jamey Valentine 2-1

Mavis Aberson 18-18 Rachel Valentine 1-2

Roger De Haan 18-15 Rachel Van Ravenhorst 1-2

Harvey Vander Pol 18-12 Ross Enger 0-3
18 ǁ Page
 Opportunities to Serve
COFFEE & PUNCH

December 6 Reese & Cristi Kelch

Cliff & Geneva Korver
December 13 Arlyn & Verdell Kleinwolterink
Harley & Phyllis Kleinwolterink
December 20 Jim & Sharon Kleis
Ron & Diane Koele
December 27 Wayne & Sue Kooiker
Casey & Gladys Korver
January 3 Connie Korver/Gerry Korver
Gregg & Sue Korver

GREETERS
December 6 Bob & Sue Conaway N John & Dianne Van Wyk
Lois De Haan / Amy Eben NW
Cliff & Geneva Korver S Mark & Amy Rassel
Daryl & Shirley Beltman SW
December 13 Trevor Starkweather / Tyler Zeutenhorst N Lavina Block
Aud & Donna Van Peursem NW
Lyle & MaryLundgren S Jim & Leann Bonnecroy
Jessica Locker / Raquel Rowenhorst SW
December 20 J R. Siebersma / Shelby Baker N Dale & Cheryl Hiemstra
Nick & Mikkell Baker NW
Jim & Leanne Bonnecroy S Norm & Velma Boonstra
Ethan & Anna Beth Vermeer SW
December 27 Wilbur & Joann De Jong N Doug & Jamie De Jong
Amy Eben NW
Casey & Gladys Korver S Roger & Dianne De Haan
Brian & Patty De Kock SW
January 3 Roger & Dianne De Haan N Lee & Leora De Haan
Leon & Alice Ver Steeg NW
Harold & Bev De Jager S Harold & Bev De Jager
Lee & Leora De Haan SW

* Even if you feel you do not have the gift of hospitality, but would like to be a greeter, please contact J.R.
Siebersma, 737-4684 or Amy Eben, 707-9105.
*Evening greeters should travel throughout the Fellowship Hall to greet members and intentionally welcome
visitors.

19 ǁ Page
 Opportunities to Serve
NURSERY ATTENDANTS
Day 8:50 AM - Baby/ 10:35 AM – Sunday
Toddler School
December 6 Geneva Korver Norwin/Myra Bomgaars
Dawn Kroese
Rachel Leusink
Kari Vanden Brink
December 13 Leanne Bonnecroy Jamey/Rachel Valentine
Mary Reinders
Brenda Bruxvoort
Nicole Rassel
December 20 Rachel Meekma Dave/Helen Huitink
Vicki Korver
Dianne Van Wyk
Regan Rowenhorst
December 24 Harlan/Twila Oolman
Christmas Eve Paul/Donna Kurtzleben
Shelby Baker
Brooke Gober
December 27 Amanda Huitink
Kara Verschuure
Jill Wierda
Dustin Vander Schaaf
January 3 Sara Van Zee
Sherry Lang
Jonna Mulder
Sarah TeGrotenhuis

POWERPOINT OPERATORS
AM PM
December 6 Meredith Pennings Michelle Van Wyk
December 13 Claire Roesner Sam Bonnecroy
December 20 Johanna Suffern Michelle Van Wyk
December 24 Christmas Eve Sara Van Peursem
December 27 Sara Van Peursem
January 3

USHERS WELCOME CENTER

North door Amy Korver, Jessica Locker, Andrew Mulder December 6 Bill & Kathy Van Marel
Lindsey Noteboom

Center door Meredith Pennings, Jordan Reinders, December 13 June Van Oort
Claire Roesner
December 20 Sara Van Zee
South door Ranell Rowenhorst, Jacob Solsma,
December 27 Karen VanDer Maaten
Trevor Starkweather, Michelle Van Wyk

January 3 Bob Vander Schaaf

20 ǁ Page
 December Birthdays & Anniversaries
1. Jane Greller 14. Cliff Mouw ☺ Calvin & Diane Williams 
Lyle Korver Gerald Bruxvoort
Rosalyn Wielenga Mark Shuller 29. Willard & Jackie Punt 
Malea Beeson Elaine De Jong Clark & Merilee Pennings 
Patt De Jong James & Jane Plagge 
2. Bernard Schiebout Megan Alons Mark & Lynnette Schuller 
Norwin & Myra Bomgaars  Lucas Kurtzleben
Clifford & Shirley Mouw  30. Muriel Vander Laan
3. Shirley Beltman Earl Bomgaars
Jonathan De Koster 15. Harold Vander Laan ☺ Gilbert & Thelma Aberson 
Claude & Betty Vander Zwaag 
4. Calvin Williams 16. Carol Van Gelder
Kelsey Lang 31. Marilyn Jordan
5. Dan De Groot
Michelle Vaas 17. Renee Wynia
Gerald (Jack) & Pat Van Es  Kayla Lyftogt
Tim & Sara Van Zee 
6. Harley Kleinwolterink
Robert L. Vander Schaaf 18. Davis Bloemendaal
Brad & Jana De Jong  Lindsey Noteboom
Alan (A.J.) Bomgaars
7. Peter Karssen ☺ Paul & Elaine De Jong 
Randy VanDer Maaten
Marlys De Koster 19. Brad De Jong
Donna Kurtzleben Dawn Kroese
Parker Mulder Nancy Vander Schaaf
Clarence & Myrtle Kiel 
8. Ida Kuyper ☺☺ Rick & Deb Van Roekel 
Leon Ver Steeg
James Aberson 20. Peter Langstraat ☺☺
Leah Wielenga Peter Moss ☺
Elizabeth King Steve Connell
Sarae Van Zee Mark Rassel

9. Dennis Beltman 21. Dean Hibma

Stephanie Schwebach
22. Brooke Hiemstra
10. Jameson Guthmiller Dennis & Dawn Beltman 
Jett Keith
Clifford & Sophia Top  23. Todd Hoffman
Curtis Vander Schaaf
11. Henry Wielenga ☺ Whitney Jorgensen
June Van Oort Roman De Jong
Deb Van Roekel Chris & Sherry Lang 
Beau Van Wechel December ~ 2009
Mark & Kay Jonker  24. Wilma Mouw ☺☺
Norma Krosschell S M T W T F S
12. Daryl Beltman Brandon Solsma 1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13. Jacob Solsma 25. Kevin Vanden Brink 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
Madison Riemersma Art & Doris De Hoogh  20 21 22 23 24 25 26
Larry & Carol Oolman 
27 28 29 30 31
26. Chris Dekker ☺☺☺

27. Perry & Joyce De Groot 

28. Sue Conaway ☺ - 80 or older

Isaiah Hoffman ☺☺ - 90 or older
Terril & Ronda De Haan  ☺☺☺ - 100 or older
Jacob & Norma Stander  —anniversary
—missionary birthday
21 ǁ Page

1 TUESDAY
8:00 AM Staff Devotions
12:00 PM Mary-Martha Dinner
at Nederlanders
2:00 PM Mary-Martha
7:00 PM Care Cluster Gathering
2 WEDNESDAY
6:30 PM JAM
6:40 PM KFC/Prayer
Warriors
7:20 PM Children/Cherub
Choirs
8:00 PM Sanctuary Choir
8:00 PM SURF
19 SATURDAY
9 WEDNESDAY 9:30 AM S. S. Christmas
6:30 AM Leadership Council Program Practice
5:00 PM SURF Soup Supper
6:40 PM Catechism / Prayer 20 SUNDAY
Warriors 9:15 AM Worship - 4th Sunday in
7:20 PM Children/Cherub Advent - Orchestra/Choir
Choirs 10:45 AM Sunday School/
8:00 PM Sanctuary Choir Disciples Journey
6:30 PM Christmas - An Inter-
10. THURSDAY national Celebration
11:30 AM Miriam
21 MONDAY
12 SATURDAY 5:15 PM Worship/Prayer Min.
9:30 AM Christmas Program Team
Practice 7:15 PM Naomi

3. THURSDAY 13 SUNDAY 22 TUESDAY

11:30 AM Miriam 9:15 AM Worship - 3rd Sunday in 4:15 PM Full Staff Devotions
Advent
4 FRIDAY Children’s Worship 23 WEDNESDAY
10:30 AM Ruth - Heritage House 10:45 AM Sunday School/ No Wednesday Activities
Hymn Sing Disciples Journey
2:00 PM Christmas Festival 24 THURSDAY
6 SUNDAY Orchestra 11:30 AM Miriam
8:00 AM MAJESTY! Worship 6:30 PM Worship 6:00 PM Family Candlelight
Team Christmas Eve
9:15 AM Worship - Second 14 MONDAY
Sunday in Advent 10:00 AM Ruth 25 FRIDAY
Children’s Worship 7:00 PM Real Life Women Church Offices Closed
10:45 AM Sunday School/
Disciples Journey 15 TUESDAY 27 SUNDAY
2:00 PM Christmas Festival 8:00 AM Staff Devotions 7:45 AM GLORY! Worship
Orchestra 9:30 AM Priscilla Team
6:30 PM Worship / Drama: 7:00 PM Consistory 9:15 AM Worship - First Sunday
Calvin’s Life and Legacy After Christmas
16 WEDNESDAY 10:45 AM - No Disciples Journey/
8 TUESDAY 6:30 PM JAM Sunday School
4:15 PM Full Staff Devotions 6:40 PM Catechism/Prayer 6:30 PM Worship
7:00 PM Library Board Warriors
7:00 PM Care Cluster Gathering 7:20 PM Children/Cherub 29 TUESDAY
Choirs 8:00 AM Staff Devotions
6:30 PM JAM 8:00 PM Sanctuary Choir 30 WEDNESDAY
6:40 PM Catechism/Prayer 8:00 PM SURF No Wednesday Activities
Warriors
17 THURSDAY
11:30 AM Miriam
6:30 PM ALLELUIA! Worship
Team

18 FRIDAY
10:30 AM Naomi - Heritage
House Hymn Sing
22 ǁ Page