•THE•

FOCUS
November Pastor’s Perspective
Pastor Perry
2009 THE CHURCH—PEOPLE WHO LIVE BY THE BOOK

In this Focus article, let me continue to share with you some very important truths about the
church (ekklesia-the called out ones). First of all, in the history of the church October 31 or
on the eve of all saints day, November 1st 1517, Martin Luther nailed the 95 Thesis to the
door of a church in Wittenberg, Germany. One of his concerns about the church in his day
This Month was the need to trust in the Bible as the ultimate source of God‘s revelation. Thus, he chal-
Pastor‘s Perspective 1-2 lenged the church leaders of that time to get back to the Bible. His translation of the Bible
First Church in Ministry 2-4 into the German language and its influence on the eventually English translation of the Bi-
First Church in Mission 5-7 ble was powerful. Thank the Lord for this tenacious reformer, one of our forefathers along
Profession of Faith 7
with John Calvin, who called people back to the Word of God. Therefore, in our denomi-
RCA News 8
First Church News 9 nation and other Reformed groups we are committed to the Bible as the only source for
Appreciation 10 faith and life.
Ministry Opportunity 10-11
In Memory 12-13 This month Christians are also encouraged to remember and give thanks for the Scriptures
First Church in Fellowship 14-15 with the National Bible Association during the week of November 15. During this month
Opportunities to Serve 16-17 let us also rejoice together at FRC in the completion of the Old Testament phase of the Es-
Birthdays & Anniversaries 18 sential 100 in our commitment to be diligent and devoted followers of the Lord Jesus Christ
Calendar of Events 19 in the reading of the Scriptures.

In light of all that, let me ask some very pertinent questions about the church in relationship
to the Holy Scriptures. Is the church a building? Is it a place? Is it an organization? Is it a
body? Is it a unique group of people?

The church is all that and more. Let's briefly review what we have explored in the last sev-
eral bulletin articles about the church. Primarily however, according to the New Testament
scriptures the church (ekklesia) is a group of people who have responded to the call of God
through repentance and the commitment of their lives to Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.

One of the most important facts that the church should never forget is its purpose. As faith-
ful followers and believers of Jesus Christ, who is the Head of the body, we need to re-
member the power and purpose of the church. Every confessing believer of the church
must keep in clear focus that they have been called by God, the Holy Spirit through repen-
tance and then faith in Jesus Christ to be lovingly and obediently responsive to His will and
His ways.

God has revealed His Will and His Ways to us through His special book called the Bible.
As faithful followers of Jesus Christ we need to be people of the Book, the Bible. The fol-
lowing story illustrates what the church, the believers and followers of Jesus Christ need to
First be striving for:
An African prince, after interpreting a missionary's message, said, "I can't read this
Reformed Book myself," referring to the Bible, "but I have come to believe the words of it because I
Church have watched the missionaries for two years. They have not told me lies about anything
else; so when they tell me this Book is God's Word, I believe it. I believe that Jesus died
420 Central Avenue NW for me, and I am going to follow this Jesus."
Orange City, Iowa 51041
737-4909
www.frcoc.org …Taken from Illustrations of Bible Truths complied by Spiros Zodhiates.
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 Pastor’s Perspective—continued/ First Church in Ministry

One of the very concise statements about the purpose and practices of the church is found in Acts 2:42. ―They devoted them-
selves to the apostles' teaching (which was what Jesus had taught them in addition to the Old Testament scriptures) and to the
fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.‖ Later the apostle Paul picked up this truth in his exhortation to Timothy that
involved all of the scriptures for the early church and for today‘s believers in the 21st century. Secoond Timothy 3:14-17 “But
you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and
that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is
in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for in-
struction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

The humble reading, the devoted study and loving, obedience to the Word of the Lord in our faith walk with Him is absolutely
vital to health and well being of a congregation‘s life and longevity.

Next time we will begin to explore what fellowship in the church means. We will discover that it is more than just a cup of cof-
fee, but find that it can begin with a cup of coffee.

Striving to Serve in the Name of the Good Shepherd!

Introducing Stan Vandersall

Our Interim Pastor beginning November 1 is Rev. Stan Vandersall. He and his wife, Marietta, have lived in
Orange City since 1981. For twenty years he served the RCA with the Synod of the Heartland in Pastoral Care and as Synod
Executive. Prior to that he served churches in Amsterdam, NY; Brooklyn, OH; and Des Moines, IA.
Marietta was employed at the OC Elementary School and later at Northwestern College as an Administrative Assistant.
Since retirement in 2001 Stan has served five different churches as interim or as staff person. Both enjoy traveling and
spending time with grandchildren.
They have three children-Kirk who lives in Asheville, NC with his wife Michelle, and children Dexter and Bella; Scott
who lives in Martelle, IA with his wife Johanna and daughters Jenah, Josi, and Wynne; and Marcia(Bannink)who lives in Port-
land, OR, with her husband Jeff, and children Janneke, Zane, and Johan.
Stan Vandersall

The interim pastoral services provided by the Rev. Dr. Stanley J. Vandersall here at First Reformed Church is effective on No-
vember 1, 2009 and extends through April 30, 2010. The responsibilities are as follows:

1. Will provide assistance with normal pastoral and administrative leadership.

2. Will preach 2 or 3 times a month and assist with normal worship as needed.
3. Will provide special leadership, as needed, for helping the congregation deal with any possible
conflict and assisting the staff, leadership and church in development of a direction for the future.
4. Will work with church leaders to:
A. Learn from church‘s history
B. Assist in the clarification of the congregation‘s identity and mission as they focus on their next
chapter.
C. Facilitate leadership development.
D. Strengthen denominational ties
E. Assist in the preparation of a position description for a new pastor
5. Act as a consultant to the executive pastor, leadership council and the search committee.
6. Submit a report every two months on the ―Health and Well-being‖ of First Reformed Church as a result of interact-
tion, interviews and visits with the congregation and its leadership.
7. Serve as classis liaison for any other needs of its staff, the consistory and congregation during this transition.
8. Meet weekly with the staff to provide help and assistance in their role and responsibilities.
Rev. Stan Vandersall will average 80-85 hours a month at First Reformed Church including selected preaching assignments
2 or 3 times a month and approximately two days a week of office presence, pastoral care and help with other needs.

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 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
November 8-David The Shepherd
November 22-Exile and Return
When children turn 3 years old during the year, they are
welcome to participate in Children‘s Worship. These op-
portunities most often fall on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of
each month, January-May. Questions? - contact Tom
Hydeen, 737-4909.

Consistory
In an attempt to acquaint the congregation with our church leaders, we will give a brief profile of one elder and one dea-
o con each month. This month we feature….
r
n Elder Jim Bonnecroy —Jim is in his second year as a elder. Jim and his wife, Leanne (Van Leeuwen), have two sons—
Jack (19) and Sam (18). Jim has been employed at Vet Pharm in Sioux Center for 25 years. He enjoys gardening, farm-
e ing, raising farm animals, music and family time.
r
Deacon Nick Baker—Nick is in his first year as deacon. Nick works as an agent with New York Life. His wife is
Mikkell (Korver), is a 3rd grade teacher at Hospers Elementary. Mikkell is currently 21 weeks
pregnant with twins.

Consistory News & Notes—November

The elders met with Sarah Jaime to profess her faith in Christ and accepted her as a communicate member
of First Reformed Church.
Maggie De Koster requested her membership be transferred to First Reformed Church from Central Reformed Church in Sioux Center,
Iowa. Eric Van Ravenhorst and Maggie De Koster were welcomed by the Elders and Deacons.
Peacemaking Ministry Team represented by Barry Brandt, Lora Brandt, Merilee Pennings and Randy Stange reported to full consistory
their vision for this effort at First Reformed Church. MMSC to give full endorsement and commitment to its implementation.
Stan Vandersall joined the consistory and shared his comments and perspective on his work as an interim pastor.
The deacons agreed to pay for the repairs to the lift in Todd Mouw‘s van.

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

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 First Church in Mission

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 First Church in Mission

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 First Church in Mission/Profession of Faith

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.

Harlan & Janice Van Roekel
Rick & Deb Van Roekel
Rod & Eleanor Van Roekel
ReNae Van Voorst
Willard & Mary Van Vugt
Todd & Jaci Van Wechel
John & Dianne Van Wyk
Jean Van Zanten
Bob & Nancy Van Zee
Tim & Sara Van Zee
Duane & Harriet Vande Brake
Eugene & Jennie Vande Brake
Gerald Vande Brake
Ken & Rose Vande Brake
Marion & Betty Vande Brake
Merle & Edna Vande Brake
Steve & Mary Vande Brake
Wilbur Vande Brake
Randy & Bev Vande Griend
Wanda Vande Kieft
Kevin & Karen Vanden Brink
Stan & Darlene Vander Aarde
Donna Vander Brink
Dennis & Lynne Vander Broek
Clarence & Lena Vander Laan
Harold & Muriel Vander Laan
Marion & Dorthena Vander Laan
Randy & Karen VanDer Maaten
Ruth VanDer Maaten
Hilda Vander Meide

Riley Rowenhorst, daughter of Randy and Lisa Sam Bonnecroy, son of James and Leanne
Rowenhorst made Profession of Faith on Sunday, Bonnecroy made Profession of Faith on Sunday,
October 11, 2009. October 18, 2009.

Riley has 3 sisters, Raquel, Ranell and Regan. Sam has one older brother Jack.

She is a 7th grader at MOC/FV Middle School He is a senior at MOC/FV and is involved in football
in Alton and is active in piano and percussion. and soccer. He also enjoys anything that includes
Her other interests include sports, drama and going to music!
movies.
She enjoys listening to music and going to Christian
concerts with her mom and sisters.

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A Note to Readers of the Church Herald
By Wes Granberg-Michaelson

Wes hoped that this reflection would appear in the final issue of the Church Herald, which was released last week. Since it
did not, he wants to share the message through other communication tools.

During a family birthday party near Lake Michigan, I walked to the beach and ran into a woman in the RCA who lives in the
same retirement complex as my in-laws. ―I always read the Church Herald from cover to cover,‖ she told me. ―What am I
going to do now?‖

I‘m sure that‘s a question many of you are asking.

Change is difficult, and few places are witnessing the dynamics of technological change more dramatically than the
publishing world. Magazines and even leading newspapers struggle to stay viable, and many have closed. Meanwhile, a
whole new world of electronic communication and social networking has exploded, changing everything from buying books
to electing presidents.

The Reformed Church in America is navigating these rapid currents of change as we explore effective and open means of
communication for our future. It‘s a challenge. We are beginning to work on new, web-based systems that will allow anyone
who uses the Internet to receive customized news and information about any area of interest in the life of the RCA. More
importantly, this will be two-way communication facilitating interaction, exchanges, and sharing around common challenges
in the life and ministry of our congregations.

Right now, if you are on Facebook, you can become a ―fan‖ of the RCA and receive regular information about our
denomination (www.facebook.com/reformedchurch). Should you want to know my whereabouts and thoughts, I‘d welcome
you as a ―friend‖ on Facebook. You can also follow the RCA on Twitter and get regular tweets about what‘s happening in
the denomination (www.twitter.com/rcaonline).

But what about those of you who are never going to click on a mouse to stay connected to news and events in the RCA?
We are remaking RCA Today as a printed magazine that will incorporate many of those things you‘ve appreciated the most
in the Church Herald. At a retreat of RCA executive staff last week, each of us identified what we valued most in the Church
Herald; synod delegates had done the same in June.

Finances will allow us to publish this magazine only two to three times a year. That‘s part of the changing reality. But we
hope this will be a way to serve those of you, like the person I met at the beach, who love the RCA and want to stay
connected through the printed page rather than a computer screen.

Every month that I‘ve written a column for the Church Herald (165, to be exact), I have been very grateful for the privilege.
I trust that a few of these words over the years may have been like seeds falling on good soil.

The Church Herald has been published each month by a highly gifted and committed staff. The ending of this magazine‘s
life, by a decision that had not been expected from General Synod, is deeply painful for them, and this grief is widely shared.
As we look to the horizon of new, creative communication avenues, their faithful service merits the gratitude of the whole
church.

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 First Church News

Matthew Henry’s Commentary All women are invited to the Women‘s

Ministries Christmas Program, Monday,
DVD Series December 7 at 7:00 PM.
Love & Respect Marriage—Dr. Emerson & Sarah Eggerichs
Sylvia Hulstein and Betty Vermeer will give a
Fiction chalk artist presentation. We will also sing
The Reluctant Cowgirl # 2 - Christine Lynxwiler Christmas carols.
Montana Rose # 1 - Mary Connealy The offering will go to the Organ Fund. There
A Widow’s Hope # 1 - Mary Ellis
The Mending String - Cliff Coon will not be a calling tree.
A Gift of Grace # 1 - Amy Clipston
The Note II - Angela Hunt
Rachel’s Secret # 1 - B. J. Hoff

Third Graders Get Bibles!

Five excited third graders received their very own Bibles on

Sunday, October 18.
L-R: Jordyn Jeltema, Emma De Groot, Joshua Beltman,
Carter Pennings and Kayla Vlietstra.

Pastor Ned Suffern Daniel & Mary Schram

% Redeemer Reformed Presbyterian Church 312 4th St. NE
548 Luzerne Road Orange City, IA 51041
Queensbury, NY 12804

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 Appreciation / Ministry Opportunities

I want to thank you for all the cards, visits & well wishes.
Thanks to Pastor Ned & Pastor Perry for their visits and
concerns while I was in the hospital. Above all thanks to our I would like to thank all those who remembered me with
heavenly Father for healing and comfort. cards on my 80th birthday and when I had surgery on my arm.
Wilmina Cleveringa Also for the visits of Pastor Perry, Tom and the volunteers
making the knot blanket. Above all we thank God for
With deep gratitude I thank each of you for your prayers, healing. God bless each one of you.
visits and cards during my recent hospitalization. The meals Harriet Harmelink
brought in were awesome! I know your prayers were heard as
I continue to gain strength. The Almighty Healer is at work Thanks to Pastor Perry for his visits and to everyone else for
through you. Thanks in abundance. their cards, visits and prayers after my hospitalization due to
Linda Schulte my fall. God bless you all.
Glenn De Haan
We would like to thank our church family for the many
expressions of love and concern during Coba‘s hospital stays Sincere thanks to all who remembered
and her passing. For the cards, food, visits and memorials me during my recent hospitalization
given at this time. Special thanks to Pastor Perry, Pastor Ned and since returning home. I really ap-
and Tom for their fellowship and guidance. We thank God for preciated the hospital prayers, visits,
Coba‘s life and for allowing us to be a part of it. cards, flowers, phone calls and the food
Martin Raak & Family brought in while recovering at home.
Also thanks to the pastoral staff for
Thanks to all who shared their garden produce, we their faithful visits and prayers.
Certainly did enjoy it !! God‗s blessing to all.
Norm & Velma Boonstra Marlys Pennings

The Women‘s Auxiliary of Inspiration Hills extends an invitation to you to attend the ―Harvest Supper‖. This is planned for
Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at 7:00PM at Inspiration Hills Camp. A delicious meal is being planned.

The entertainment for the evening will be the KOOI FAMILY from Inwood, Iowa. There will be an envelope offering dur-
ing the evening for anyone wishing to contribute toward the projects of the Auxiliary. The auxiliary has been able to purchase
many of the improvements on the grounds and to the building at the camp.

The cost for the evening is $10.00 per person. You can make your reservations by calling the Office Manager at Inspiration
Hills, 1-866-858-3265 by November 3, 2009.

Try to attend and bring a friend. You will receive a spiritual blessing and be able to visit with old and make new friends.

10 ǁ Page
 Opportunities

11 ǁ Page
 In Memory

Mrs. Phyllis Zeutenhorst, age 81, of Orange City, passed away on Wednesday, October 14, 2009, at the Mercy Medical
Center in Sioux City.

There was a memorial service on Saturday, October 17, at the First Reformed Church in Orange City. The Rev. Edward Suffern
officiated. Interment was prior to the service at the West Lawn Cemetery in Orange City. There was a prayer service on Satur-
day, at 9:30am, at the Oolman Funeral Home in Orange City, with the Rev. Laura Borman officiating.P

Phyllis was born on April 2, 1928, at Sioux Center, the daughter of John T. and Mary Bonnema Oliver. Except for a few years at
Lester, she was raised at Sioux Center, where she graduated from high school. She also attended Westmar College in Le Mars,
earning a teaching certificate.

On May 31, 1947, she married John R. Zeutenhorst in Sergeant Bluff. They made their home in Orange City, where in earlier
years, she was a homemaker. Later she worked as a nurses' aid at the Heritage House Nursing Home in Orange City. More re-
cently, she was the comptroller at Northwestern College in Orange City.

Mr. & Mrs. Zeutenhorst wintered in Ocala, Florida, for thirteen years.

She was a member of the First Reformed Church, where she participated in the women's activities. She was a faithful prayer
warrior, whose prayers were especially felt by her family. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother,
whose most important parts of life were faith, family, and friends.

Survivors include her husband of more than 62 years; a daughter and her husband, Jan and Dan Berg of Watertown, South Da-
kota; a son and his wife, Tim and Lori Zeutenhorst, of Orange City; four grandchildren, Nicole, and her husband, Scott Carver,
of Sheldon; Lindsey Berg, of Pierre, South Dakota; and Tyler Zeutenhorst and Anna Zeutenhorst, both of Orange City; two great
-grandsons, Nicholas and Matthew Carver; two sisters, Ruth Van Den Brink, of East Lansing, Michigan; and Shirley Mouw, of
Orange City; a brother and his wife, Roger and Carol Oliver, of Rock Rapids; and a brother-in-law and his wife, Henrich and
Marilyn Kraayenbrink, of Sioux Center.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, David Zeutenhorst; an infant grandson, Timothy John Zeuten-
horst; a brother and his wife, Jack and Louise Oliver; three sisters, Virginia Kraayenbrink; Kathleen, and her husband, Duane
Gage; and Vivian, and her husband, Harold Ageson; and two brothers-in-law, Ceel Van Den Brink and Lorenz Mouw.

12 ǁ Page
 Rev. Robert Block, age 79, of Orange City, Iowa, passed away on Friday, Octo-
ber 23, 2009, at the Orange City Area Health System Hospital.

There was a memorial service on Monday, October 26, at 10:30am, at the First
Reformed Church in Orange City. The Rev. Dr. Perry De Groot will officiate.
Interment will be prior to the service at the West Lawn Cemetery in Orange City.
There will be a prayer service on Monday, at 9:30am, at the Oolman Funeral
Home in Orange City.

Robert James was born on July 5, 1930, in Little Rock, Iowa, the son of
George and Mary (Veenker) Block. He was raised in Little Rock, where he
graduated from high school.

He then attended Central College in Pella, Iowa, majoring in history. After graduation, he went to Basrah, Iraq, as the sports and
English teacher in the School of High Hope, a Reformed Church in America mission school, where he taught for three years.
He continued his studies at the New Brunswick Theological Seminary in New Jersery, and on June 13, 1958, he was ordained to
ministry in the R. C. A. by Classis Germania.

On June 18, 1958, he married Lavina F. Snuttjer in Little Rock. They took a summer charge at Shawangunk Reformed Church in
Walkill, New York, and went to the University of Michigan that fall, for Vi to complete her Bachelor of Arts degree and Bob to
begin the Master of Arts program in Near Eastern Languages and Literature. In the fall of 1959, they went to Kuwait, where they
began Arabic language study, and in 1960, they entered Iraq. There he taught English and Christianity in the school in Basrah
and in Baghdad. He also worked with the Arab Protestant Church, working with the young people's and men's groups, making
many dear friends.

In 1968, the Iraqi government expelled all Americans, prompted by America's support of Israel in the Six Day War of 1967. Bob
then accepted pastorates at the Plainview Reformed Church in Long Island, New York, Community Reformed Church in New-
ton, Iowa, and Lakeview Heights Reformed Church in Clifton, New Jersey. They served Community Reformed for thirteen
years, with the congregation growing spiritually and in numbers and also building a new sanctuary. He then began the work of
Christian-Muslinm dialogue, working with a board of six pastors in central New Jersey. He served as interim pastor in two
churches, taught Biblical studies in the Nile Theological College in Khartoum, Sudan, and served as administrator of the Al
Amana Centre in Muscat, Oman, for two years.

The Blocks then retired to Orange City, where he remained active at the First Reformed Church, serving as co-pastor of calling,
arranging senior citizens programs, and teaching some courses during the education hours. He also was hospice chaplain and
used his musical talents to sing in men's groups and to form a harmonica band, both of which volunteered in the local area. He
used his woodworking abilities to make cars for the Hope Haven Wheelchair Ministry, as well as making a tree house to delight
children, including his grandchildren. He was a devoted father and grandfather, appreciating times when family could be to-
gether. His concern was that Christ was the center of everyone's life, especially his family.

Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Vi; two sons and their wives, Joel and Badria Block, and their children, Maiya and Han-
nan, of Rio Rico, Arizona; James and Sandi Block, and their children, Zachary and Joshua, of Clear Lake, South Dakota; a
daughter and her husband, Susan and Patrick Giannantonio, and their children, Jessica and Jake, of Orange City; a sister, Mary
Grace Block, of Milford, Iowa; his mother-in-law, Grace Snuttjer, of Orange City; two brothers-in-law and their wives, Jack and
Darlene Peters and David and Kathi Snuttjer; four sisters-in-law, Sharon Reynen, Lois, and her husband, Bruce Lombard, Karen,
and her husband, Peter Schakel, and Mary, and her husband, Fred Schaa; and nephews and nieces.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, George Henry and Peter Ray Block; and four sisters, Ethyl
Peters, Ruth Ackerman, Clarice, and her husband Marvin Rosenboom, and Patricia, and her husband, Robert Reynen.
13 ǁ Page
 First Church in Fellowship
Heartland Strategy Mixer
November 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

Pete & Sylvia Humme 737-2903
Bill & Kathy Van Marel 707-4212
Wilbur & Joann De Jong 707-4540
Group 4
Arlin & Glenda Brenneman 737-4069
John & Gert Kamies 737-4761
Tony & Ann Verdoorn 737-4545
Group 7
Julie Junck/Kristi Hiemstra 737-8129
Gerald & Marilyn Bruxvoort 707-4458
Ken & Mary Oldenkamp 756-4233
Group 10
Harlan & Linda Ver Steeg 737-8946
Amy Eben & Partner 707-9105
Marv & Helen Huisman 737-2302
Group 13
Harlan & Phyllis De Haan 737-2418
Randy & Bev Vande Griend 707-4358
Dale & Cheryl Hiemstra 737-3877
Nelva Rowenhorst 737-3029
& Lori Rowenhorst 737-8377
Orville & Marge Beltman 737-4232
Jay & Ruth Lyftogt 737-3369
Group 5
Harlan & Janice Van Roekel 722-2530
Paul & Elaine De Jong 737-2116
Rog & Dianne De Haan 737-3331
Group 8
Idelle Vogel 737-4339 & Helene Van
Grootheest 707-9308
Whiz & Jackie Punt 737-4790
Linda De Smit/June Van Oort 737-3776
Group 11
Herm & Grace Oldenkamp 707-8657
Galen & Becky Kleinwolterink 737-8378 Jim & Mavis Aberson 737-2496
Al & Linda Donaldson 737-3104
Gene & Thelma Haverdink 737-8179
Betty Verdoorn/Elma Hiemstra 737-4471
Rick Hop 737-4434 & Dennis Vande Brake
Group 6
Dale & Mary Wurpts 737-4401
John & Lisa Lambert 737-3426
Renee Wynia/Sharon Reynen 737-3697
Group 9
Ken & Mary Oldenkamp 756-4233
Art & Lorna Ter Horst 737-4604
Harlan & Twila Oolman 737-3326
Group 12
Tom & Carla Hydeen 737-2544
Cliff & Geneva Korver 737-4666

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!!!

14 ǁ Page
 First Church in Fellowship
POINTS STANDINGS Wins/Losses POINTS STANDINGS Wins/Losses
Cliff Korver 28-14 Jim Aberson 15-16
Galen Kleinwolterink 28-8 Cornie Keunen 15-12
Renee Wynia 27-18 Harvey Vander Pol 15-12
Helene Van Grootheest 25-14 Geneva Korver 14-25
John Lambert 25-14 Idelle Vogel 14-25
Julie Junck 25-14 Lisa Lambert 14-25
Bill Van Marel 25-11 Sharon Reynen 14-25
Rick Hop 24-12 Ruth Lyftogt 14-22
John Kamies 24-9 Amy Eben 14-13
Betty Verdoorn 23-13 Dale Wurpts 14-10
Paul De Jong 23-10 Dennis Vande Brake 13-23
Al Donaldson 22-17 Carla Hydeen 13-20
Dale Hiemstra 22-17 Marilyn Bruxvoort 13-19
Jay Lyftogt 22-14 Carol Vande Pol 13-14
Reasons for playing
Whiz Punt 22-8 Harv Huisman 13-11
Heartland Strategy
June Van Oort 21-21 Kathy Van Marel 12-27
Linda De Smit 21-21 Dianne De Haan 12-18 1. Meet people at
Nelva Rowenhorst 21-21 Lorna Ter Horst 12-18 FRC that you
do not know.
Linda Ver Steeg 21-18 Elma Hiemstra 11-22
2. Become aware
Randy Vande Griend 21-15 Marge Beltman 11-19 of any needs or
Arlin Brenneman 20-19 Gene Haverdink 11-15 concerns of
JoAnn De Jong 20-19 Alvina Keunen 11-14 those you play
with.
Ken Oldenkamp 20-16 Helen Huisman 11-13
3. Build unity as a
Glenda Brenneman 19-20 Gerry Noordhoek 11-7 group at FRC.
Wilbur De Jong 19-20 Elaine De Jong 10-23 4. Be considerate
Harlan Van Roekel 19-14 Harlan Oolman 10-17 and help those
who are learn-
Gerald Bruxvoort 19-13 Mary Wurpts 10-14
ing how to play.
Orville Beltman 19-11 Herm Oldenkamp 10-5 5. To praise God
Harlan De Haan 19-8 Gert Kamies 9-24 and have a fun
Harlan Ver Steeg 18-21 Phyllis De Haan 9-21 time.
Mavis Aberson 18-18 Pete Karssen 9-6
6. Please invite &
encourage oth-
Tony Verdoorn 18-15 Jackie Punt 8-22
ers to join the
Art Ter Horst 18-12 Kristi Hiemstra 8-19 group.
Roger De Haan 18-12 Sylvia Humme 8-16
Twila Oolman 18-12 Grace Oldenkamp 8-13
Thelma Haverdink 18-11 Becky Kleinwolterink 7-26

Cheryl Hiemstra 17-22 Wanda Noordhoek 7-11

Janice Van Roekel 16-20 Dorothy Karssen 6-9
Linda Donaldson 16-20 Randy Van Peursem 5-1
Mary Oldenkamp 16-20 Henrietta Vande Weerd 4-2
Tom Hydeen 16-10 Chad Oolman 2-1
Pete Humme 16-8 Jamey Valentine 2-1
Bev Vande Griend 15-21 Rachel Valentine 1-2
Lori Rowenhorst 15-21 Rachel Van Ravenhorst 1-2
Ann Verdoorn 15-18 Ross Enger 0-3
15 ǁ Page
 Opportunities to Serve
COFFEE & PUNCH

November 8 Paul & Sheila Janssen

Allen & Pam Jeltema
November 15 Gerald & Judy Jongerius
Henry & Evonne Jonker
November 22 Roger & Marilyn Jordan
Mark & Kay Jonker
November 29 Harlan & Stacie Jorgensen
Brian & Julie Junck
December 6 Reese & Cristi Kelch
Cliff & Geneva Korver

GREETERS
AM PM
November 8 Lynne Vander Broek/Betty Smit N Jay & Roz Wielenga
Claude & Betty Vander Zwaag NW
Sara Van Zee /Alyce Vander Stoep S Dale & Mary Wurpts
Harlan & Janice Van Roekel SW
November 15 Dale & Mary Wurpts N Casey & Gladys Korver
Jay & Roz Wielenga NW
Sharon Reynen / Renee Wynia S Bob & Deb Vander Schaaf
Bob & Deb Vander Schaaf SW
November 22 Mark & Amy Rassel N Claude & Betty Vander Zwaag
John & Dianne Van Wyk NW
Mark & MiriamVellings S Lynne Vander Broek / Betty Smit
Harlan & Linda Ver Steeg SW
November 29 Nick & Mikkell Baker N Mark & Miriam Vellinga
Craig & Leah Pennings NW
Dale & Cheryl Hiemstra S Harlan & Linda Ver Steeg

Steve & Laurie Roesner SW

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

* 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.

16 ǁ Page
 Opportunities to Serve
NURSERY ATTENDANTS
Day 8:50 AM - Baby/ 10:35 AM – Sunday
Toddler School
November 8 Lori Zeutenhorst Joel/Angela Bomgaars
Karen Huizenga
Miranda King
Sara Van Peursem
November 15 Thelma Haverdink Rob & Brenda
Julie Junck Bruxvoort
Gena Schmidt
Laura Korver
November 22 Sheila Janssen Gary & Judy Cleveringa
Cheryl Hiemstra
ReNae Van Voorst
Jessica Locker
November 26 Patty De Kock
Thanksgiving Merilee Pennings
Helen Huitink
Karli Lang
November 29 Judy Cleveringa Kevin & Kara
Pam Jeltema Verschuure
Jacki Brenneman
Jade De Kock
December 6 Geneva Korver Norwin & Myra
Dawn Kroese Bomgaars
Rachel Leusink
KariVanden Brink

POWERPOINT OPERATORS
AM PM
November 8 Paul Beltman Michelle Van Wyk
November 15 Claire Roesner Sara Van Peursem

November 22 Paul Beltman Johanna Suffern

November 26 Thanksgiving Sam Bonnecroy
November 29 Paul Beltman Meredith Pennings
December 6 Meredith Pennings Michelle Van Wyk

USHERS WELCOME CENTER

North door Jacob Solsma, Trevor Starkweather, November 8 LeeAnn Smit
Johanna Suffern, Michelle Van Wyk

Center door Jacob Vande Griend, Josie Visser, November 15 Gary & Linda Te Grotenhuis
Leah Wielenga, Anna Zeutenhorst
November 22 Rachel Valentine
South door Shelby Baker, Malea Beeson,
November 29 Bob & Mary Van Gelder
Davis Bloemendaal, Sarah Bomgaars,
Sam Bonnnecroy
December 6 Bill & KathyVan Marel
17 ǁ Page
 Nvovember Birthdays & Anniversaries
2. Donna Van Peursem 20. Ned Suffern
Mark Jonker Michael De Koster
Madisyn Mulder Cole Pottebaum
Katelyn Brenneman 21. Daniel Locker
3. Russell Te Grotenhuis ☺☺ 22. James Kleis
Nick Hulst ☺ Galen Kleinwolterink
Diane Raak 23. Karen VanDer Maaten
Eric Eyer Twila Oolman
4. Hendrina Van Gelder 24. Florence Plender
Laurie Roesner Stanley Ver Steeg
Chris Korver Mark & Lori Bloemendaal 
Roger & Sheryl Koster  25. John Zeutenhorst
Wilbur & JoAnn De Jong  Kyle De Jong
5. Jane Haverdink Arlen & Dee Van Dyke 
Arlyn & Verdell Kleinwolteink 26. John Van Wyk
6. Jack Van Es ☺ Terril De Haan
Joan Zeutenhorst Bill & Kathy Van Marel 
7. Aletha Beeson Eric & Stephenie Schwebach 
Leah Pennings 27. Herbert Ritsema ☺
Julie Gober 28. Kenneth Vlietstra
Eric Schwebach 29. Adrian Jacobs ☺
Brandon Williams Dale Wurpts
Casey & Gladys Korver  Heath Baker
Gerald & Judy Jongerius  Claire Roesner
8. Evelyn Kraai ☺☺ 30. Connie Menning
Henrietta Koele ☺ Carla Hydeen
Mark Bloemendaal Beverly Vande Griend
9. Lynne Vander Broek Alden & Connie Menning 
Mark Dykstra
Eric Hiemstra
10. Sarah Te Grotenhuis
11. Norma Stander
Paul De Jong
Krystle Vander Schaaf
Morgan Baker
12. Harold De Jager
John Lambert
Carey De Boer
Dustin Vander Schaaf
13. Martin Raak ☺☺
Tom Hydeen
14. Russell Van Gorp ☺
Mark Van Klompenburg
Andrew Bloemendaal
Ava De Jong
Ernest & JoAnn Fedders 
15. Doris De Hoogh November ~ 2009
Jolene Hop S M T W T F S
Donald Vaas
Jasey Van Kekerix 1 2 3
Matthew Stanislav 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
16. Shelly Ritsema
Debra Broek 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
17. Katie Van Berkum ☺☺
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Darlene Vander Aarde
Willard Van Vugt 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
Sarah Raak
☺ - 80 or older
19. Rick Van Roekel
☺☺ - 90 or older
—anniversary
—missionary birthday

18 ǁ Page
1 SUNDAY
9:15 AM-Worship—Pastor Perry
Prayer Blanket/Karalee Oldenkamp
10:45 AM-Sunday School/Disciples
Journey
6:30 PM-Worship—Arnold Punt
2 MONDAY
3 TUESDAY
8:00 AM-Staff Devotions
2:00 PM-Mary Martha
7:00 PM-Care Cluster Gathering
10 TUESDAY
4:15 PM-Full Staff Devotions
7:00 PM-Library Board
11 WEDNESDAY
6:30 AM-Leadership Council
1:00 PM-Blocks & Knots
6:30 PM-JAM
6:40PM-Catechism/Prayer Warriors
7:20 PM-Children‘s/Cherub Choir
8:00 PM-Sanctuary Choir
SURF
12 THURSDAY
6:30 PM-Alleluia Praise Team
22 SUNDAY
9:15 AM-Worship-Pastor Jon Nelson
30th Anniversary of FRC Sanctuary
GLORY! Worship Team
Children‘s Worship
10:45 AM-Sunday School/Disciples
Journey
6:30 PM-Pastor Jon Nelson
23 MONDAY
5:15 PM-Worship/Prayer Ministry
Team
24 TUESDAY
4:15 PM-Full Staff Devotions

15 SUNDAY 25 WEDNESDAY
4 WEDNESDAY 9:15 AM-Worship-Pastor Perry NO EVENING ACTIVITIES
6:30 PM– JAM Celebration of the Lord‘s Supper 6:30 PM Open House - 1st Impact
6:40 PM-Catechism/Prayer Alleluia Worship Team
Warriors 10:45 AM-Sunday School/Disciples 26 THURSDAY
7:20 PM—Children/Cherub Journey 9:15 AM-Thanksgiving Worship-
Choirs 3:00 PM– Lord‘s Supper/Pioneer Home Pastor Perry
8:00 PM—Sanctuary Choir 6:30 PM– Pastor Joel Bensema
SURF 29 SUNDAY
16 MONDAY 9:15 AM-Worship– Pastor Perry
7:15 PM-Ruth 1st Sunday of Advent
5 THURSDAY
7:15 PM-Naomi 10:45 AM-Sunday School/Disciples
11:30 AM-Miriam Journey
5:00 PM-Family Circles 17 TUESDAY 2:00 PM-Christmas Festival Orchestra
6:15 PM-Genevan Ringers 8:00 AM-Staff Devotions Rehearsal
7:00 PM-MAJESTY worship 9:30 AM –Priscilla 6:30 PM-Worship
Team 7:00 PM-Consistory
30 MONDAY
8 SUNDAY 18 WEDNESDAY 6:00 PM-Preaching/Teaching Ministry
9:15 AM-Worship-Pastor Harlan 5:00 PM-50‘s Diner/JAM Team
Van Oort 6:40 PM-Catechism/Prayer Warriors
7:20 PM-Children‘s/Cherub Choir
MAJESTY worship team
8:00 PM-Sanctuary Choir
Cherub choir SURF
Children‘s worship
10:45 AM-Operation Christmas 19 THURSDAY
Box Packing 11:30 AM-Miriam
Sunday School/Disciples Journey 5:00 PM-Family Circles
6:30 PM-Worship—Pastor Stan 6:15 PM-Genevan Ringers
Vandersall 7:00 PM-GLORY! Worship Team
Children‘s choir

19 ǁ Page