WEEKLY BULLETIN

May 19, 2013

Message: "Telling Our Story and God's Story" Acts 4:1-22

Pastor Jack Lynn

Next Sunday

Pastor Jack Lynn will be preaching.

The Helping Hand Offering will be taken in addition to our Ministry Offering. This offering is given to people in and beyond our church that are in need of financial assistance.

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If you or someone you know desires a word of counsel and prayer, please contact your Elder/Deacon Team. You are also welcome to call Pastor Van Elderen.

PRAYER ROOM – Kirk Vande Guchte will be in the Prayer Room this morning. Please stop by and share how we can pray for you. Next Week: Angela Beute

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NURSERY TODAY

AM: Angela & Natasha Beute, Beth Emmitt, Jenna Maleport

NURSERY NEXT WEEK

AM: Pam (Doug) Brower, Michelle Van Sweden, Denielle Fouts

PLEASE PRAY FOR AND ENCOURAGE:

Pastor Van Elderen as he takes time away for study and rest.

Our shut-ins, those who live with disappointment and those who are lonely.

Our nation.

Those nominated for elder and deacon.

For those who give their time and talent for our music ministry.

Our military and their families: Doug Austhof, Andrea Goeman, Josh Munsee, Dale Wheeler, Steven Kilgore, Jonathan Heintz, and Landon Lyons.

AS WE LIVE OUT GOD’S MISSION, THANK GOD FOR:

PROOF – A mentoring program to Elementary and Middle School young people in the Byron Center area.

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My special day was filled with the joy of God’s presence and the warmth of His love as I was reminded of how much He cares and loves me. I was blessed with many beautiful versed cards and notes of kindness from you my church friends for my birthday. Thank You. I continue to covet your prayers as I still cannot walk on my own but I have come a long way. God is so good. Muriel Schierbeek

The Consistory presents the following nominees for Elder and Deacon. Elders: Don Freehafer, Bob Koopman, Wes Kraft, and Dallas Thiel. Deacons: Kevin Blain, Matt Brower, Jeff Evers, Lee Hackley, Nate Meyer, and Joel Root. Two Elders and three Deacons will be selected at the Congregational Meeting on Tuesday, May 28, at 7 pm in the Sanctuary. We thank these nominees for their willingness to be used by God in the area of leadership!

The items for consideration for us as a congregation are outlined in a communication placed in your mailbox. This includes the slate of nominees for Elder and Deacon. It also includes the recommendation of the consistory to accept the offer of First Christian Reformed Church to purchase our parsonage. Copies are also available in the Church Office.

A Forum is scheduled for Monday, at 7pm in the ROCK, where questions and conversation about this sale proposal will be entertained.

A Congregational Meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 28, in the Sanctuary. If you do not plan to attend this meeting, please use Absentee Ballots with your name included on the ballot or on the envelope in which your ballot is enclosed. Ballots can be placed in the offering today, May 26, or sent to the office by Sunday, May 26. If you wish to vote

by email, please email the office (office@frcbc.com) for a ballot to be sent to you.

TODAY is the day for our Spring Celebration! If you forgot, please join us anyway! We will be in the ROCK. Lunch begins at 12 noon and games will begin at 12:30. We would love to have you join us!

Graduates on Sunday, June 9, we will be taking a moment to honor you. If you are able, please email 2 -3 pictures to the office by no later than June 2. If you would also like to include a note as to future plans and next steps (college, job etc.), that would be great. Congratulations!

Military men and women we are looking for volunteers to assist with the POW/MIA ceremony on Sunday, May 26. Please contact Dale Wheeler at 583-1859 for more information.

Son Seekers wear your running shoes and your Son Seekers T-shirt for a Scavenger Hunt Final Event of the Year at the Thiel’s on Sunday night from 5:45 – 7:15 pm

Seeking the Glory of God will not meet on Wednesday, June 5.

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May 12, 2013

Message: Our Story- God's Story, I John 2:14

Dr. Peter Van Elderen

Next Sunday

Spring Celebration Sunday in the ROCK with a Potluck Luncheon at noon.

Pastor Jack Lynn will be preaching.

The Helping Hand Offering will be taken in addition to our Ministry Offering. This offering is given to people in and beyond our church that are in need of financial assistance.

If you or someone you know desires a word of counsel and prayer, please contact your Elder/Deacon Team. You are also welcome to call Pastor Van Elderen.

PRAYER ROOM – Pat Sankey will be in the Prayer Room this morning. Please stop by and share how we can pray for you.

Next Week: Kirk Vande Guchte

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NURSERY TODAY

AM: Suzan Couzens, Luanne Deater

NURSERY NEXT WEEK

AM: Angela & Natasha Beute, Beth Emmitt, Jenna Maleport

PLEASE PRAY FOR AND ENCOURAGE:

The family of Paulene Vargaz. Paulene went to be with her Lord this past Monday.

Morrie & Sharon Ozinga in the passing of Sharon’s brother, Roger Blanker, unexpectedly this week.

Max Dugan and Laural (Wierenga) as they were joined in marriage yesterday in this church.

Becky Reed, Hub VanSweden, Sharon Ozinga, Al Elzinga, Mick Alberda, Murial Schierbeek and others dealing with ongoing health concerns.

Our military and their families: Doug Austhof, Andrea Goeman, Josh Munsee, Dale Wheeler, Steven Kilgore, Jonathan Heintz, and Landon Lyons.

AS WE LIVE OUT GOD’S MISSION, THANK GOD FOR:

Cradles Of Grace – A ministry for expectant and single mothers and their children.

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Pastor Van Elderen begins a time of study and refreshment this week. He will return to the office on June 4. Please share your pastoral needs with your Elder or the Church Office.

The items for consideration for us as a congregation are outlined in a communication placed in your mailbox. This includes the recommendation of the consistory to accept the offer of First Christian Reformed Church to purchase our parsonage and the slate of nominees for Elder and Deacon. Copies are also available in the Church Office.

A Forum is scheduled for May 20 at 7 pm in the ROCK, where questions and conversation about this sale proposal will be entertained.

A Congregational Meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 28, in the Sanctuary. If you do not plan to attend this meeting, please use Absentee Ballots (signed). Ballots will be included in next week's bulletin. Ballots can be placed in the offering on Sunday, May 19, or May 26, or sent to the office by Sunday, May 26. If you wish to vote by email, please email the office (office@frcbc.com) for a ballot to be sent to you.

The Interview Team has scheduled a second interview with a candidate for the position of Pastor of Discipleship and Mission. Thank you for surrounding this process with your prayers.

Spring Celebration! Next week we will be gathering in the ROCK for food (potluck), fellowship and fun. Please check your newsletter for details or call Judy Christian (891-0322) with any questions.

Geneva is hosting a Community Open House on Sunday, May 19, from 2-4 pm for those who are signed up for camp, thinking about signing up for camp, or just curious about it. For first-time campers, the Open House is helpful in making them feel comfortable with GENEVA and familiar with the grounds before camp begins. Several activities will be open, including the heated swimming pool and splash park.

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May 5, 2013

Message: The Last Creation

Dr. Peter Van Elderen

This morning we celebrate with great joy the baptisms of Caidence, Logan and Isabelle Cooper, Eli and Christian Doyle. We also witness the Professions of Faith of Madison Cooper and Katie VanDyk.

Next Sunday

We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper together.

Memory Verse for The Story

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, not anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:38-39

If you or someone you know desires a word of counsel and prayer, please contact your Elder/Deacon Team. You are also welcome to call Pastor Van Elderen.

PRAYER ROOM – Tiffany Root will be in the Prayer Room this morning. Please stop by and share how we can pray for you.

Next Week: Pat Sankey

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NURSERY TODAY

AM: Amanda Brower, Cheryl Kilgore, Kelly Hofman

NURSERY NEXT WEEK

AM: Suzan Couzens, Angela Beute, Natasha Beute

PLEASE PRAY FOR AND ENCOURAGE:

Gerri VanSweden whose knee replacement went well and is receiving therapy at home.

Paulene Vargaz who has been admitted to Metro Hospital and is dealing with pneumonia.

All those in the process of healing.

God’s leading and direction as the choice is made for the Pastor of Discipleship and Mission.

Cradles of Grace, Byron Ministry, PROOF programs and all other outreach efforts.

Our consistory, staff, pastor and all committees making important decisions for the future of our church.

The safety of many who worship God throughout the world in secret for the fear of persecution.

All college students as they study for exams, end their semester and seek employment.

All those dealing with the aftermath of flooding.

Our military and their families: Doug Austhof, Andrea Goeman, Josh Munsee, Dale Wheeler, Steven Kilgore, Jonathan Heintz, and Landon Lyons.

AS WE LIVE OUT GOD’S MISSION, THANK GOD FOR:

Buist Community Dinners served in the ROCK.

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TODAY IS POINT SUNDAY for Sunday School.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Vi VanPutten who will celebrate her 90th birthday tomorrow, May 6, and to Muriel Scheirbeek who will celebrate her 80th birthday on May 8.

THANK YOU - Donna and I thank the members and friends of First Reformed Church who surrounded us with prayer, encouragement and understanding during the last 12 weeks of recovery following acute kidney failure. By God's grace, my health continues to improve. Your acts of kindness made this journey one where we knew that we were not walking alone. -~Pastor and Donna Van Elderen

IS IT ON YOUR CALENDAR? Spring Celebration, Sunday, May 19, is our last date for Sunday School this spring. We will be gathering in the ROCK for a potluck, games for kids of all ages (even the adults) and fellowship. Please join us. Check the newsletter for details.

SUMMER KIDS CAMPS REGISTRATION FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE. You can secure these forms from the church office or on the website: www.frcbc.com.

•Art Camp is June 24-28 for 1st-5th graders from 1-4 pm in the afternoon with an art exhibit on Friday evening. Cost is $25 a student.

•Dance Camp is July 15-19. There will be two sessions. Session 1: ages 4 years old- 2nd grade meets from 9:30-11:45 am.

Session 2: 3rd-6th graders meet from 12:30-3:30 pm. Cost is $25 per student and $10 for each additional sibling.

•Bible Camp will meet at Prescott Mobile Home Park July 29 - August 2 from 9:30-11:30 am.

We are in need of volunteers for all of these camps. If you are able to help, please contact Melanie Vlietstra (878.1709 ext. 102 or melanie@frcbc.com).

FRC SEVERE WEATHER POLICY All church meetings and/or services will continue as scheduled in the event of a Thunderstorm Watch. If a Severe Thunderstorm Warning, Tornado Watch, or Tornado Warning is in effect or goes into effect for our area one hour or less before a meeting or service, such a scheduled activity is automatically cancelled.

•In all situations Wood TV 8 and WZZM TV 13 will be notified of all cancellations. (You may log on to Woodtv.com and sign up for automatic e-mail and text messaging of cancellations of your choosing).

•Every effort will also be made to post cancellations on the church website (frcbc.com).

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April 28, 2013

Message: Another Creation

Dr. Peter Van Elderen

Next Sunday

The Last Creation - Chapters 30-31 in The Story

We will celebrate the baptism of Eli Cooper Doyle, Christian Doyle and the profession of faith of Katie Van Dyk. We will also celebrate the baptism of Caidence, Logan and Isabelle Cooper and the profession of faith of Maddie Cooper.

Memory Verse for The Story

It is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.

Ephesians 2:8

If you or someone you know desires a word of counsel and prayer, please contact your Elder/Deacon Team. You are also welcome to call Pastor Van Elderen.

PRAYER ROOM – Jan Goeman will be in the Prayer Room this morning. Please stop by and share how we can pray for you.

Next Week: Tiffany Root

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NURSERY TODAY

AM: Marcia Schierbeek, Penny Maleport, Liz Christian

NURSERY NEXT WEEK

AM: Amanda Brower. Cheryl Kilgore, Kelly Hofman

PLEASE PRAY FOR AND ENCOURAGE:

Those healing from surgery, dealing with ongoing illness and continued therapy.

Many who have dealt with flood waters not only in homes but in area businesses.

Tim and Allie Nelson as they celebrate the arrival of their son, Elias, on April 20.

Someone who needs prayer for strength, encouragement, peace and clear direction from God.

Al Elzinga, Muriel Schierbeek, Mick Alberda, Hub VanSweden, Gerri VanSweden, Bess Alles and Becky Reed.

All those affected by the events in Boston.

Our military and their families: Doug Austhof, Andrea Goeman, Josh Munsee, Dale Wheeler, Steven Kilgore, Jonathan Heintz, and Landon Lyons.

AS WE LIVE OUT GOD’S MISSION, THANK GOD FOR:

Byron Community Ministries – A local ministry that provides resources and counseling to men, women and families in need in the Byron Center area.

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THANK YOU for all the anniversary wishes, cards and memories shared with the friends we have made over the past 60 years.

Al and Marian Deters

SUMMER KIDS CAMPS REGISTRATION FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE. You can secure these forms from the church office or on the website: www.frcbc.com.

•Art Camp is June 24-28 for 1st-5th graders from 1-4 pm in the afternoon with an art exhibit on Friday evening. Cost is $25 a student.

•Dance Camp is July 15-19. There will be two sessions. Session 1: ages 4 years old- 2nd grade meets from 9:30-11:45 am. Session 2:

3rd-6th graders meet from 2:30-3:30 pm. Cost is $25 per student and $10 for each additional sibling.

•Bible Camp will meet at Prescott Mobile Home Park July 29 - August 2 from 9:30-11:30 am.

We are in need of volunteers for all of these camps. If you are able to help, please contact Melanie Vlietstra (878.1709 ext. 102 or melanie@frcbc.com).

FRC SEVERE WEATHER POLICY- All church meetings and/or services will continue as scheduled in the event of a Thunderstorm Watch. If a Severe Thunderstorm Warning, Tornado Watch, or Tornado Warning is in effect or goes into effect for our area one hour or less before a meeting or service, such a scheduled activity is automatically cancelled.

•Every effort will also be made to post cancellations on the church website (frcbc.com).

Grace Opportunities

Our church is scheduled to help supply personal care products for Byron Community Ministries for the month of April. Paper products (baggies, plastic wrap, foil, toilet paper), deodorant, household cleaning products, feminine products, baby wash, body wash, liquid soap, lotions, razors, baby diapers size 6, baby wipes, or any other personal care items. There is also an urgent need for children’s clothing, especially boys. Jewelry is also still being accepted. There is a table in the Fellowship Hall to receive these items.

HUNGER WALK - You can still sign up for the Access of West Michigan walk to be held on May 4. We plan to meet at the church at 7:30 AM and ride down together. Stop at the table in the ROCK for more information.

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April 21, 2013

Message: The Darkest Hour, The Brightest Light

Dr. Peter Van Elderen

Next Sunday

The Story- Chapters 28-30 Another Creation

We will celebrate the baptism of Tristen, son of

Scott and Susan Lickley

The Helping Hand Offering will be taken in addition to our Ministry Offering. This offering is given to people in and beyond our church that are in need of financial assistance.

Memory Verse for The Story

If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we

die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we

belong to the Lord. Romans 14:8

If you or someone you know desires a word of counsel and prayer, please contact your Elder/Deacon Team. You are also welcome to call Pastor Van Elderen.

PRAYER ROOM – Steve Couzens will be in the Prayer Room this morning. Please stop by and share how we can pray for you.

Next Week: Jan Goeman

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NURSERY TODAY

AM: Erin Deater, Barb Vande Guchte, Cheri Westbrook

NURSERY NEXT WEEK

AM: Marcia Schierbeek, Penny Maleport, Liz Christian

PLEASE PRAY FOR AND ENCOURAGE:

Dorothy Fernhout as she begins more treatment for her cancer.

The Nyland family (former members). Rip Nyland went to his heavenly Father this past week.

All those whose lives have been directly affected by the Boston Marathon bombing and other acts of terrorism.

Those receiving therapy, and those dealing with pain and sickness. Pray that they will receive encouragement, hope and healing.

Our military and their families: Doug Austhof, Andrea Goeman, Josh Munsee, Dale Wheeler, Steven Kilgore, Jonathan Heintz, and Landon Lyons.

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Newsletter For May/June - Please send your newsletter information to the church office by Tuesday at 9 am.

The church office will be closed tomorrow.

There were some items left in the ROCK from the GEMS overnighter. Please check the table in the Fellowship Hall to see if any of these items belong to you.

SAVE THE DATE! The Fellowship Committee is currently making plans for our annual Spring Celebration on Sunday, May 19! We will begin with a potluck at noon. There will be games and fellowship time to follow. Watch the bulletin and newsletter for more details.

Summer Kids Camps Registration Forms are now available. You can secure these forms from the church office or on the website: www.frcbc.com. Art Camp is June 24-28 for 1st-5th graders from 1 -4 pm in the afternoon with an art exhibit on Friday evening. Cost is $25 a student. Dance Camp is July 15-19. There will be two sessions. Session 1: ages 4 years old- 2nd grade meets from 9:30-11:45 am. Session 2: 3rd-6th graders meet from 12:30-3:30 pm. Cost is $25 per student and $10 for each additional sibling. Bible Camp will meet at Prescott Mobile Home Park July 29 - August 2 from 9:30-11:30 am.

We are in need of volunteers for all of these camps. If you are able to help, please contact Melanie Vlietstra (878 –1709 ext. 102 or melanie@frcbc.com).

Grace Opportunities

The Hunger Walk to benefit Access of West Michigan will be held May 4, at 8 am in Grand Rapids. Walkers are needed for this 5K (3 mile) walk. Learn how you can help feed the hungry in West Michigan by stopping at the table in the ROCK today. Please contact Mary Lou Christian (878-1462) if you have any questions.

Banner of Christ Church (1111 68th Street) is hosting a Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, April 27 from 8:30 -11 am to raise funds for Byron Community Ministries. The cost will be $5.

The Cadet Counselors are hosting a Counselors Convention Fundraiser on April 30, from 5-7 pm at both the 54th and 28th Street Culver’s