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DECEMBER 2011
A Monthly Publication of the Regional Synod to help keep all members of our churches informed about the -work of their Synod. Please download and share this information.
REGIONAL SYNOD WEBSITE IS UP and RUNNING…The address is www.nysynod.com. It contains the latest news and events, columns, prayer chapel, picture gallery, media player, and even your local classis pages. You may also find pictures of your pastors and friends on the site. Check it out!!!
* * * * * * BEST WISHES FOR A WONDERFUL AND BLESSED CHRISTMAS SEASON With the Christmas season soon to be upon us, I simply want to offer all who labor in Christian ministry within the Regional Synod of New York, my thanks for all you have done to serve God and remain faithful to your high calling. Your work has not become easier over the past few years. The struggle has become more complicated because of economic pressures, aging buildings and church members. But, the message of Advent remains the same – Jesus is Coming! We know that the Lord appears in many ways, and especially comes when we need Him most. Our response is to patiently wait. For He will come and what we thought would overpower us, will only become another of the countless stories of God’s interaction of love and care for all His children. So my friends, may this be a joyful season of patience and hopeful waiting. God has no less reason now than in the past, to treat us with his great kindness and concern. Yours faithfully, Jon Norton, Executive Minister RSNY
It’s Christmas Time in the City…Do you hear what I hear? Ring-a-ling, hear them ring! It’s Christmas time in the city! From radio to department stores, the sounds of Christmas music fill the air. Most people have one of two responses: joyful smiles or roll-the-eyes annoyance. Some embrace the season with enthusiasm, others exhaustion. But once we get through the bulk of the preparations, most of us are glad to step out of the winter cold into celebrations large and small, warmed with friends, family, food and good cheer. Christmas in our culture has two particularly prominent characters: Jesus and Santa. Despite their own jovial and peace-making personalities, we sometimes position them as adversaries. If you have children perhaps you and your family have had to discuss the roles of Santa and Jesus in your household. To believe in Santa, or not; that is the question it would seem. Journey back in time with me to the Rodriguez household I knew as a child. With manger scenes, gift-giving, worship and conversation, my family did its best to keep Jesus and his arrival on earth as the focus of our holiday. I am confident, as my wife tells me, that this can also be done in families that do “believe” in Santa Claus. It is not a competition, but a matter of focus. The story of Santa is best understood in its entirety, dating back to fourth-century Turkey. A bishop of the church by the name of Nicholas was a man of deep prayer and great generosity. He particularly had compassion for the poor. Bishop Nicholas was known to give secret gifts to families in need, always directing all gratitude to God alone. In one story about Nicholas, he knew a man who could not afford the financial arrangement for his three daughters to marry. So Nicholas threw three purses filled with gold through the window (or chimney) of their home during the night. His gift enabled the girls to marry and avoid unemployment and poverty. Nicholas, who became known as St. Nicholas, has since inspired people to give anonymously to the poor. This seems like something worth believing. The greatest gift we celebrate at Christmas is JESUS, who comes to us all year round and lives among us. Jesus comes to all people, of every socioeconomic class, rich and poor; of every age, young and old; and of every height, short and tall. Jesus gives the same generous and abundant gift – himself – to all people. He gives us life, love and salvation because of and in spite of our worst behavior. Jesus knows we mess up, and he meets us there and loves us still. Jesus is not only the focus of the season, but of our lives. In this holiday season, may you experience the all surpassing generosity and love of God in Jesus, the baby born at Bethlehem. Rev. Robert Rodriguez, Synod Area Minister: Classes of Brooklyn, New York and Rockland/Westchester We are all reminded that this third Sunday in Advent is known to the ancients as Gaudete or Rejoice Sunday from I Thessalonians 5:16. We too rejoice that the faithful one who brings good news to the oppressed and brokenhearted is already in our midst. You and I are invited to join with John the Baptist as we point the way to the coming light that brings great joy to the world. A blessed and pointed Advent and Christmas season to all. Tom Danny, Synod Area Minister: Classes of Mid-Hudson and Orange
GOD’S SURPRISING WONDERS…The scripture verse chosen for this year’s APCE annual event is Daniel 4:3: God’s miracles are staggering, God’s wonders are surprising. Church educators, youth leaders and pastors are invited to come and be surprised when we gather in Grand Rapids, February 1-4. Wonders may be large or small, as you discover different ways to connect, enrich, empower and sustain with a myriad of educators. For full details, visit http://apcenet.org/ Registration deadline has been extended to January 2, 2012. If you are unable to make it to Grand Rapids in February, note the dates May 1-3, 2012, for the annual Regional Event (NEACE) of Church Educators to be held at Linwood Spiritual Center, Rhinebeck.
FREEDOM IN MINISTRY…A week-end for clergy and their spouses from the Synods of Albany, New York and Mid-Atlantics to retreat into the scenic hills of Warwick, New York. This year’s theme of the conference is: The Music of our Lives: Understanding Our Calling. Rev. Dan Griswold, pastor of Trinity Reformed Church, Rochester, NY will be the guest presenter and worship leader. For more information contact: Lorena Cuevas (lcuevas@rca.org) or Elaine Tetreault (etetreault@rca.org). Cost: $150.00 (or $100.00 for first time participants).
WARWICK ANNOUNCES 2012 YOUTH RALLY SEASON… Winter Blast Youth Rallly February 10-12, Grades 6-12 Dan Marse-Kapr Confirmation Retreat March 16-18, All Confirmation Classes Rev. Kenneth Tenckinck Elementary Youth Rally March 16-18, Grades 2-5 Scott Cherry Spring Fling Youth Rally April 20-22, Grades 6-12 Dan Marse-Kapr Information and registration forms will be mailed to churches next week. For more information, please contact Scott Cherry at 845-986-1164 or campwarwick@campwarwick.org
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED… · Volunteers are needed during Christmas week at the Warwick Center Paul Nulton, Volunteer Coordinator for the Regional Synods of Mid-Atlantics and New York, will work with volunteers from December 26th –31st repairing and painting exterior window shutters and wooden Adirondack chairs in the shop. Cost is $30/day for three meals and a place to sleep. Contact Paul: pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org or call 845-598-1407.
ABOUT THE SYNOD… · Orange Classis recently hosted a special event at which Roger Price and Kirsty Depree of the RCA led workshops on Leadership Development and Training for Christian Educators in Deer Park. Seventy-five people attended this revitalization effort spearheaded by Pastor Steve Sayer and Diane Jiorie of the Reformed Church in Bushkill, PA. · The Brick Church in Montgomery, NY (Orange Classis) was featured recently in a news article about the large lion and lamb sculpture created by Elder Jesus Peshe on the church lawn visible from Route 17K. A labor of love, it is a place for quiet and reflection for any who pass by! · On Saturday, January 21, Rev. Jon Norton will lead a workshop, open to all, on dealing with change in our churches. The workshop will be held at The Brick Church, Montgomery, NY. · On the first Sunday of each month at 10:45 a.m. the Flatbush Reformed Church, Saugerties (Mid-Hudson Classis) is holding a worship service designed with people with special needs in mind. The service takes place within the regular service of worship. Singing songs of praise, sharing the Word of God, working on a project together and sharing a time of fellowship with special goodies – Join us! For more information, call Rev. Jennifer Bendelius, 845-246-4750. · Congratulations to Rev. James Audlin and Andrea Melba Vargas Vega as they prepare to celebrate their marriage on January 7, 2012 in Paso Ancho, Panama. James served as pastor of the Shokan Reformed Church (Mid-Hudson Classis).
MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR
NOVEMBER 2011
A HAPPY and BLESSED THANKSGIVING to ALL
A Monthly Publication of the Regional Synod to help keep all members of our churches informed about the -work of their Synod. Please download and share this information.
REGIONAL SYNOD WEBSITE IS UP and RUNNING…The address is www.nysynod.com. It contains the latest news and events, columns, prayer chapel, picture gallery, media player, and even your local classis pages. You may also find pictures of your pastors and friends on the site. Check it out!!!
* * * * * * * GOD’S SURPRISING WONDERS APCE (Association of Presbyterian Church Educators) ANNUAL EVENT FEBRUARY 1 – 4, 2012 GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN
GOD’S SURPRISING WONDERS…The scripture verse chosen for this year’s APCE annual event is Daniel 4:3: God’s miracles are staggering, God’s wonders are surprising. Church educators, youth leaders and pastors are invited to come and be surprised when we gather in Grand Rapids! Surprises may be large or small, as you discover different ways to connect, enrich, empower and sustain with a myriad of educators. For those who come early, there are two pre-conference seminars: Things They Never told Me about Jesus led by John Bell and Faith Formation in the 21st Century led by John Roberto. John L. Bell is ordained by the Church of Scotland and works with his colleagues in the areas of music, worship and spirituality. Bell is a hymn writer, author and occasional broadcaster on national radio and television, but retains a primary passion for congregational song. He will be in Grand Rapids as a presenter at the Calvin Symposium on Worship and will be the music leader for APCE. John Roberto is president of Lifelong Faith Associates, editor of the journal Lifelong Faith, and coordinator for the Faith Formation 2020 Initiative. John works as a consultant to churches and national organizations, teaches courses and conducts workshops in faith formation, and has authored books and program manuals in youth ministry, family ministry, and intergenerational faith formation. Conference leadership: Shari LeMonnier, Conference Artist; Rev. Susan Davis Krummel, Preacher, opening worship; Rabbi Sandy Eisenberg Sasso, Plenary Presenter; Rev. Dr. Carol Bechtel, in-depth Seminar Presenter, Wonders, Surprises and Challenges in the Book of Job; and Rev. Dr. Claudio Carvalhaes, in-depth Seminar Presenter, Worship and Education…As If the Wonders of God Were Our Hands. Friday is Workshop Day and there are 82 to choose from. In addition there will be opportunities for off-site visits and tours; a Market Place to enjoy, Regional Gatherings, a Denominational Breakfast and time to share and learn from hundreds of gathered educators. This Association of Presbyterian Church Educators is proud to honor The Rev. Dr. George Brown as the 2012 Educator of the Year. George’s more than 40 years of ministry have been divided between congregation and seminary. After graduating from seminary, George was ordained by the Classis of Philadelphia (RCA) and became pastor of the Reformed Church in Pottersville, where he served for four years. For the next 15 years, George was minister of Christian Education at Central Reformed Church, Grand Rapids. He is currently the G. W. and Eddie Hayworth Professor of Christian Education and associate dean at Western Theological Seminary in Holland Michigan. George has served as president of CERCA (Christian Educators Reformed Church in America), was recognized by CERCA as its 1996 Educator of the Year, and in 2009 received CERCA’s Life Achievement Award. A CERCA member said this about George, There is an energy and a bond among Reformed Church Educators because George continues to encourage our gathering whenever possible each year at APCE. Early registration deadline is December 2, 2011…For conference details visit http://www.apcenet.org/index.php. If you are a first time attendee, you may apply for a Regional Scholarship – the deadline is November 15th. The link is http://www.apcenet.org/scholarships/regional.htm. A limited number of first time attendee scholarships may be available by contacting the Office of Discipleship, RCA. If you are unable to make it to Grand Rapids in February, note the dates May 1-3, 2012, for the annual Regional Event (NEACE) of Church Educators to be held at Linwood Spiritual Center, Rhinebeck.
WARWICK ANNOUNCES 2012 YOUTH RALLY SEASON… Winter Blast Youth Rallly February 10-12, Grades 6-12 Dan Marse-Kapr Confirmation Retreat March 16-18, All Confirmation Classes Rev. Kenneth Tenckinck Elementary Youth Rally March 16-18, Grades 2-5 Scott Cherry Spring Fling Youth Rally April 20-22, Grades 6-12 Dan Marse-Kapr Information and registration forms will be mailed to churches next week. For more information, please contact Scott Cherry at 845-986-1164 or campwarwick@campwarwick.org
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED… · Volunteers are needed during Christmas week at the Warwick Center Paul Nulton, Volunteer Coordinator for the Regional Synods of Mid-Atlantics and New York, will work with volunteers from December 26th –31st repairing and painting exterior window shutters and wooden Adirondack chairs in the shop. Cost is $30/day for three meals and a place to sleep. Contact Paul: pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org or call 845-598-1407.
STAND DOWN…A ministry to veterans in San Diego, California, coordinated by Rev. Darcy Pavich, a member of Nassau-Suffolk Classis is looking for support. Darcy writes: Our Stand Down program has grown to over 200 cities around the country in the 24 years we have been operating. Most are not as involved as ours but all serve veterans in need…Congregations are encouraged to connect with a Stand Down in their own neighborhoods…ministering to their own homeless. Getting involved locally also allows our members to volunteer and provide a ministry of presence. In my experience here, our volunteers are as blessed by their work as those whom they serve. For more information contact: Darcy L. Pavich, Chaplain and Stand Down Coordinator, Veterans Village of San Diego, 4141 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92110 www.vvsd.net or darcy.pavich@vvsd.net.
ABOUT THE SYNOD… · Congratulations to Crescent Place Reformed Church (Rockland/Westchester) on their 100th Anniversary! · Congratulations and God’s Blessings to Cora Tait, former President of our Synod, who will be ordained on December 4th at Highbridge Community Church (New York Classis). · Preaching Elder Donald Lee and pastors from the Mid-Hudson Classis joined members and former members of the Krumville Reformed Church for a closing service as the doors are officially closed. Elder Claire Collins, the church’s only remaining active member, offered some reflections on the recent history and others present shared special remembrances. A meaningful and warm service marked the end of the Krumville congregation and this church’s ministry over the years since its organization in 1856 in this lovely area of the Catskills. · The Classis of Rockland/Westchester, meeting in Judicial Session during their stated meeting on October 18, 2011, voted to restore The Rev. Dr. Norman Kansfield to the Office of Minister of Word and Sacrament. He was invited to reaffirm the vows he made as he was received into this Classis two years ago while under suspension. There followed an emotional reading by Dr. Kansfield of the Declaration for Ministers, an emotional hearing of the same by the Classis delegates, and a prayer for God’s blessing of his continued and vital ministry among us. · The Mid-Hudson Chapter of ROOM FOR ALL will be meeting at Old Dutch Church, Kingston, on Wednesday, November 16th at 7:00 p.m. This will be an evening of conversation focused on full inclusion of LGBT persons in the RCA. For more information, contact Elder Robert Sweeney, 845-242-6927.
GRANTS…
OCTOBER 2011
A Monthly Publication of the Regional Synod to help keep all members of our churches informed about the -work of their Synod. Please download and share this information.
REGIONAL SYNOD WEBSITE IS UP and RUNNING…The address is www.nysynod.com. It contains the latest news and events, columns, prayer chapel, picture gallery, media player, and even your local classis pages. You may also find pictures of your pastors and friends on the site. Check it out!!! * * * * * * * * REV. DOUGLAS LEONARD, DIRECTOR of the AL-AMANA CENTRE in the Sultanate of Oman has been asked by the World Council of Churches to assist in organizing a new Gulf Council of Churches. The GCC will function as any of the National Council of Church bodies under the umbrella of the World Council of Churches. He will organize a conference of Bishops and denominational leaders to launch this new body. Further, Doug has been invited by the President of Oman’s Islamic seminary (Institute of Sharia Sciences) to lecture on Christianity. This is a remarkable invitation for a Christian to be invited to teach Christian theology in an Islamic seminary. There are about 1,000 students at the seminary preparing to be Imams in all the countries of the region (Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan and many African countries…)
NEWS from LT. KIM DONAHUE, MEMBER of the Classis of Orange…In 2008, Kim went to Iraq for 9 months and worked closely with the State Department and the local Iraqi population. She returned to work at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD. She has specialized in the care of outpatients with mild traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress. Kim seeks our prayers as she seeks the leading of the Holy Spirit to discern her next move. Kim’s passions are to help other service members (active and reserve), to reconnect or connect for the first time with a loving God, after such horrific life experiences – grief, loss, isolation and separation in magnitudes that most of us will never be able to comprehend. This war is up close and personal – in the way it is fought and its injuries, while sustainable, cut deep into the identity of the service member. Kim is concerned that the church find a way/ways to reach out and be a safe place for these men and women…whether they stay in and wait for redeployment or get out and return to their homes and families…normal is not normal and may never be again. If churches can pull together, there is a lot to be gained by learning from this group and finding ways to engage and care. She can be reached at: kim_Donahue@yahoo.com.
THE JOURNEY CONTINUES…In recent weeks, as I have searched the files, old newspaper clippings, minutes and pictures, I have been fascinated by the journey. An undated report, I suspect from the NY State Council of Churches, details the work of ministry to migrant workers and their families. My guess is this report is looking back to the 1920’s and 30’s. From the minutes of the Dutchess-Ulster Migrant Council, I note discussions centered around the need of farm workers to be treated as all other workers in New York State – the right to clean water and sanitation in the fields, a day of rest and collective bargaining. Since the formation of Rural & Migrant Ministry in 1981, a Day Care Center has been built in New Paltz, so that the children of farm workers have a safe, clean place to learn and grow while their parents work. A youth program that offers marginalized and rural poor children and youth opportunities that in the past their parents and others in their circumstances could only dream of has expanded to Sullivan County and the Finger Lakes Region. The Justice for Farm Worker Campaign has found people marching across the state and meeting in Albany with lawmakers to ensure better working conditions and fair labor practices for farm workers. The ministry has planted seeds that only God knows how they will grow; many have grown into strong, healthy citizens that are ready and willing to share in the American dream, but continue the journey for those yet to come. On October 15th, the ministry celebrated its 30th Anniversary with a Gala Event. Covenanting Denominations were honored by recognizing Jane Konitz, representing the RSNY-RCA and Fred Wibiralske, representing the Episcopal Diocese of New York – both served on the founding committee and have been active members of the board since its beginning, To culminate the celebration, Rev. Richard Witt, was recognized for his 20 years of outstanding leadership and great vision. I have been blessed to be on this journey and wish to thank every RCA church and the many individuals who have supported the ministry in so many ways. Your faithful prayers and support have encouraged the staff and brought hope, justice and empowerment to those who labor so that our tables are abundantly filled each day. Thank you for the opportunity to serve…the JOURNEY CONTINUES! - Jane Konitz HURRICANE RELIEF…The Executive Ministers of the three eastern Synods – Luis Perez, Harold Delhagen and Jon Norton – have been asked to comprise a special committee to receive information and assist Reformed Church World Service with its offer to help those churches within the Synods that have sustained damage as a result of the storms. If you are interested in helping, you can: · Take a special offering to provide financial support for the congregations that have been impacted. · Pray for all those churches and families that have suffered extensive damage due to flooding. · Volunteer – groups are being formed to help with the massive clean-ups. If your church has suffered a disaster and cannot sustain itself as a result, please call Jon Norton at the Synod Office 914-332-1311, and make a report
WARWICK ANNOUNCES 2012 YOUTH RALLY SEASON… Winter Blast Youth Rallly February 10-12, Grades 6-12 Dan Marse-Kapr Confirmation Retreat March 16-18, All Confirmation Classes Rev. Kenneth Tenckinck Elementary Youth Rally March 16-18, Grades 2-5 Scott Cherry Spring Fling Youth Rally April 20-22, Grades 6-12 Dan Marse-Kapr Information and registration forms will be mailed to churches next week. For more information, please contact Scott Cherry at 845-986-1164 or campwarwick@campwarwick.org
ROOM FOR ALL, an organization of Reformed Church in America members and pastors working for full inclusion of persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the life and ministry of the RCA , will hold its second national gathering, Making Room for all 2011, October 27-29, at Central Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, MI. For more information, go to the Room for All website, www.roomforall.com or contact RCA Coordinator, Marilyn Paarlberg, 201-364-4538
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED… · From Wednesday, October 18th, until the job is completed, volunteers are needed to paint the windows of Flatbush Reformed Church, Saugerties · Volunteers are needed during Christmas week at the Warwick Center Paul Nulton, Volunteer Coordinator for the Regional Synods of Mid-Atlantics and New York, will work with volunteers from December 26th –31st repairing and painting exterior window shutters and wooden Adirondack chairs in the shop. Cost is $30/day for three meals and a place to sleep. Contact Paul: pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org or call 845-598-1407.
ABOUT THE SYNOD…
. PLEASE NOTE: This year’s Fall Gathering of the Synod has been postponed until a later date to give the Human Support Committee more time to prepare an event that will be valuable to the every day life of churches and provide encouragement to leaders within the Synod.
SEPTEMBER 2011
A Monthly Publication of the Regional Synod to help keep all members of our churches informed about the -work of their Synod. Please download and share this information.
REGIONAL SYNOD WEBSITE IS UP and RUNNING…The address is www.nysynod.com. It contains the latest news and events, columns, prayer chapel, picture gallery, media player, and even your local classis pages. You may also find pictures of your pastors and friends on the site. Check it out!!!
* * * * * * * * WELCOME REV. ROBERT RODRIGUEZ…With the help of the Classes of Brooklyn, New York and Rockland-Westchester, the Regional Synod has hired Rev. Robert Rodriguez as the new Synod Area Minister for those classes. He fills the position created by the retirement of Rev. Clara Woodson. Robert is currently introducing himself to churches within the bounds of those classes. Robert and his wife have three sons and live in Mohegan Lake, NY. He has served as an interim minister for several years and is a graduate of Drew University. The SAM position is part-time and Rev. Rodriguez will hold the SAM position while working as Director of Human Resources for the City of Peekskill Public Schools. Welcome!
HURRICANE RELIEF…Reformed Church World Service is accepting donations on behalf of the three Eastern Synods to help those church affected by Hurricane Irene and the remnants of Tropical Storm Lee. The three Synods are working with the Office of RCWS to determine where the needs are greatest. If you are interested in helping, you can: · Take a special offering to provide financial support for the congregations that have been impacted. · Pray for all those churches and families that have suffered extensive damage due to flooding. · Volunteer – groups are being formed to help with the massive clean-ups. Contact the Synod Offices or the RCA Mission Volunteer Program.
RURAL & MIGRANT MINISTRY 30TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2011 9:00 a.m. Registration HONOR’S HAVEN RESORT and SPA 1195 Arrowhead Road, Ellenville, NY 12428 For thirty years, churches of the Regional Synod of New York have supported RMM with money, volunteers, needed supplies and prayers. This is your opportunity to explore the issues and experience the people of Rural & Migrant Ministry. JOIN US AS WE BEGIN THE NEXT THIRTY YEARS!! From 9 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Conference Workshops Empowering Youth; Art for Social Change; Building Bridges Across Class, Culture & Religion and Empowering People of Faith to Move from Charity to Justice Panels Immigration: The Opportunities/Challenges for Welcoming Our Neighbor; The Journey for Justice is Long and How Can Our Voices Be Heard in the Policy Process? Bible Study Site Visits Sullivan County Poultry Plants; Youth Economic Group Work Site & Field Work (Drop Apple Picking) Art-a-Thon For Youth: Creating Art for Justice with Youth Arts Group Organizing for Change Empowering Rural Women (stories & action) Empowering Farmworkers (stories & action) 4:30 p.m. – Sharing the Spirit of Rural & Migrant Ministry (A Justice Liturgy of songs, stories and prayers) Honoring our Covenanting Denominations through RMM founders Jane Konitz & Fred Wibiralske 6:00 p.m. – Gala Reception followed by the Gala Banquet Celebrating Rev. Richard Witt’s 20th Anniversary as RMM’s Executive Director For more information: Visit the RMM website – www.ruralmigrantministry.org or call – 845-485-8627 CAMP WARWICK will host a free Trick or Treat Event on Sunday afternoon, October 30th. All children are welcome to come in costume to Trick or Treat cabin to cabin. There will be games and refreshments for all to enjoy.
WARWICK ANNOUNCES 2012 YOUTH RALLY SEASON… Winter Youth Rally February 10-12, Grades 6-12 Dan Marse-Kapr Confirmation Retreat March 16-18, All Confirmation Classes Rev. Kenneth Tenckinck Elementary Youth Rally March 16-18, Grades 2-5 Scott Cherry Spring Fling Youth Rally April 20-22, Grades 6-12 Dan Marse-Kapr For more information, contact Scott Cherry at 845-986-1164 or campwarwick@campwarwick.org
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED…From Tuesday, October 4th to Friday, October 15th, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., volunteers are needed to help scrape, sand and paint the windows at Flatbush Reformed Church in Saugerties. If you can volunteer, or need more information, please contact Paul Nulton, pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org or 845-598-1407 (after 9/21).
A SPIRITUAL RETREAT…Encouraging the Nurture of A Listening Heart will be held September 27-29 or October 11-13, 2011 at Fowler Camp & Retreat Center, Speculator, NY. This retreat invites entry into a deeper place of holy listening for God. Together participants will explore ways to nurture our desire for prayer using a variety of contemplative prayer practices woven into a gracious rhythm of silence and sound, stillness and movement. There will also be opportunity for individual Spiritual Direction. Retreat guides: Ellen Ratmeyer, Ordained Elder and Spiritual Director; Ella Campbell, Ordained Elder and Spiritual Director; and Arlene Wilhelm, Minister of Word and Sacrament and Spiritual Director. Cost: $50.00 per person. Make checks payable to Reformed Church in America and mail to Ellen Ratmeyer, 30 Church Road, Selkirk, NY 12158. Questions? Contact Ellen Ratmeyer, eratmeyer@rca.org, or 212-870-2957.
ROOM FOR ALL, an organization of Reformed Church in America members and pastors working for full inclusion of persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the life and ministry of the RCA , will hold its second national gathering, Making Room for all 2011, October 27-29, at Central Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, MI. For more information, go to the Room for All website, www.roomforall.com or contact RCA Coordinator, Marilyn Paarlberg, 201-364-4538.
REMINDER…Synod PD&R Committee meeting with all grantee churches will be October 8th at 10:00 a.m. at the Reformed Church of the Tarrytowns. Written reports from those churches receiving PD&R grants are due NO LATER THAN OCTOBER 1st. Applications for the 2013 PD&R Grants are available. Contact the Synod Office if you would like to receive one.
ABOUT THE SYNOD…
. PRAYER CORNER…
JUNE 2011 HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY SUMMER!
A Monthly Publication of the Regional Synod to help keep all members of our churches informed about the -work of their Synod. Please download and share this information.
REGIONAL SYNOD WEBSITE IS UP and RUNNING…The address is www.nysynod.com. It contains the latest news and events, columns, prayer chapel, picture gallery, media player, and even your local classis pages. You may also find pictures of your pastors and friends on the site. Check it out!!!
* * * * * * * * * 35 REVITALIZING CHURCHES WITHIN THE REGIONAL SYNOD OF NEW YORK… Within the churches making up the seven Classes of the Regional Synod of New York the Spirit of God is doing much to advance and revitalize their work and witness. The Spirit of God is easily seen moving in creative and positive ways in the 35 churches listed. Of course God is doing much more than is obvious in the fifteen minutes spent making this list. Many more might be included. It would be pleasing and interesting to share where YOU see God alive and working in your church. Please don’t hesitate to share your stories so others can share your Good News. If after reading the list, you would like to get more detailed information, please call the church and speak with the pastor. Be sure to go to the Synod website, www.nysynod.com, to read Jon Norton’s report on 35 revitalizing churches in our synod.
THE SCHOOL for CHRISTIAN LIVING AND SERVING, an Educational Ministry of the Classes of Mid-Hudson and Orange, celebrated 16 years of offering adults within their bounds opportunities to learn and grow in faith. Each term courses are offered that challenge participants to become better equipped to serve as leaders in their churches and communities. One hundred twenty-five certificates were awarded to the 2010-2011 participants and four more Preaching Elders were added to the growing list of those who have achieved this milestone on their journey. Congratulations to Stephen Damba, Hopewell Reformed Church; Colleen Dierze, Rhinebeck Reformed Church; Jesus Pech, Brick Reformed Church, Montgomery; and Phyllis Montanari, Faith Reformed Church, Slate Hill. There are now 14 Preaching Elders serving the Classes of Mid-Hudson and Orange. As we prepare for the Fall 2011 term, we have several more folks (several from Columbia-Greene Classis) beginning their journey to become Preaching Elders. A preview of fall 2011 includes: New Testament; Christmas Pageants Without Stress; a book study, What’s the Least I Can Believe and Still be a Christian – A Guide to What Matters Most by Martin Thielen; Pastoral Care through the Funeral Service; Boundaries in Relationships in the Church; and Parables on the Road (The Parable Series will be underwritten by the Emily Paulson Scholarship Fund.) Thank You to Our Instructors who faithfully taught those who came to learn this past year: Rev. Gary DeWitt, Rev. Dr. Robert Gram, Rev. Kenneth Kobza, Rev. Luis Perez, Rev. Jay Vogelaar, Elder Beverly Kipp, Russ Gasero, RCA Archivist; Rev. Dr. Renee House, Dean and Professor of Theology at NBTS and Ellen Ratmeyer, RCA Coordinator of Consistory Training and Ministry Services.
DVD AVAILABLE…The School for Christian Living and Serving, an adult education ministry of the Classes of Orange and Mid-Hudson, is offering a DVD of the seminar entitled, The Joy of the Reformed Faith, presented last fall by The Rev. Dr. Renee House, Dean of NBTS. This is an excellent resource for new member and confirmation classes or small groups studying reformed worship. Cost: $10; $12 if mailed…To obtain your DVD contact: Jan Melichar-Utter: mrsjutter98@aol.com or 845-878-0056.
WELCOME…The Classis of Mid-Hudson examined and received into membership on May 11, 2011 The Rev. Antonio Aquino. On Pentecost Sunday he will be commissioned to a specialized ministry to the Iglesia Cristiana Comunitaria congregation of Providence, RI. The Classis and the Regional Synod of New York extend a warm welcome and the right hand of Christian fellowship to Pastor Aquino.
OPENED SANCTUARY, Katsbaan Reformed Church, 1800 Kings Highway, Saugerties, NY…We know this is a rare occurrence to find a Sanctuary that is available for quiet prayer and meditation during the week! Beginning in June, you will have the opportunity to come for quiet prayer and meditation on Tuesdays, 7-8 p.m. Come and leave anytime. Refresh and renew your spirit, find peace! Contact: Patty Dombroski – dombrowskix4@earthlink.net or 518-821-4310. REMINDER…Synod PD&R Grant Applications are available through the Synod Office. The deadline to receive CLASSIS APPROVED APPLICATIONS is OCTOBER 31ST. Check with your classes to find out when their deadline is to receive the application so they can act on it. Applications received after the deadline will NOT be considered. Applications for the 2013 PD&R Grants will be available in September. Contact the Synod Office if you would like to receive one. MARK YOUR CALENDAR…The Synod PD&R Meeting for all churches currently receiving grants is Saturday, September 10th at 10:00 a.m. at the Synod Office in Tarrytown. A letter will be going out in the near future.
RURAL & MIGRANT MINISTRY NEEDS YOUR HELP! RMM has applied for a $50,000 grant through the Pepsi Refresh Everything Awards Program for our Youth Arts Group (YAG). This is an on-line contest in which applicants win based on the number of votes their idea generates. (The purchase of Pepsi Products is NOT necessary). It is simple – 1) Register as a Voter by going to the Website www.refresheverything.com and Sign In and then 2) Create an Account – You are limited to one registration per person/email address! 3) Then Vote for EMPOWER AND INSPIRE ISOLATED RURAL YOUTH once a day during the month of June – WE NEED YOU TO VOTE EVERY DAY! Our Application can be reviewed at www.refresheverything.com/rmmyouthartsgroup Need more info about YAG: http://www.ruralmigrantministry.org/yag.html Need more information about the Contest? Contact us: hope@ruralmigrantministry.org As of June 8, 2011 we were #44; PLEASE HELP US TO GET TO #1!
SAVE THE DATES, OCTOBER 14-15 to Celebrate Rural & Migrant Ministry’s 30th Anniversary! The celebration will be held at Honor’s Haven, Ellenville. There will be Workshops, Panels, Bible Studies, A Farmworker Band, Youth Art-a-Thon, Apple Picking, Farm Visits and The Gala Dinner on Saturday evening. Invitations will be mailed soon.
CAMP WARWICK will be leading a mission trip to the Queens Village Reformed Church in Queens for 10-12th graders July 16-23, 2011. The trip will be an exciting time to strengthen your relationship with Christ through service. During this mission project, we will provide much needed painting of the foyer of this historic church, and painting of the wrought iron fence that surrounds the property. For more information about the Queens Village Reformed Church, go to their website at: www.queensreformedchurch.org. This trip will provide an opportunity to build relations with the youth of the Queens Village Church. The cost: $385.00 per person – covers meals, supplies for painting and, possibly a trip to CITI Field to see a NY Mets game. Registrations for summer are still being accepted! Contact Scott at campwarwick@campwarwick.org or 845-986-1164.
ABOUT THE SYNOD… · Congratulations to The Rev. Kenneth Kobza, Pastor of the New Hurley Reformed Church, Orange Classis, celebrating 25 years as pastor of this congregation. A special Service of Worship was held in May and there will be a special reception in June. · Congratulations to DeWitt Reformed Church (New York Classis) on the celebration of their 130th Anniversary, June 4, 2011. The Rev. Dr. Micheal Edwards is the Pastor. · Congratulations to Myung Han, who was ordained into Specialized Ministry at the Shin Kwang Reformed Church (Queens Classis) on June 5, 2011. · The Retired Clergy Luncheon will be held at The Warwick Center on Thursday, June 23rd. The Rev. Douglas Leonard, Director of the Al-Amana Center, Muscat, Oman, will be the speaker. We look forward to welcoming all our retirees and spouses. · Contemporary Praise and Worship featuring The Stillwell Project will be held Sunday, July 5, 2011, at 6:00 p.m., Hurley Reformed Church (Mid-Hudson Classis). The Rev. Dr. Roberts Gram is the Pastor.
PRAYER CORNER… · Please keep The Rev. Kenneth Walsh, Old Dutch Church, Kingston, and his family in your prayers. They had a fire in the parsonage two weeks ago. Other than smoke inhalation, all are okay, but they are now living in two rooms as repairs are made. Sadly, they did not have renters insurance.
THE REGIONAL SYNOD FALL GATHERING will be held on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2011. The event is being planned by the RSNY Human Support Committee. SAVE THE DATE and watch for more details!
TO EVERYONE: HAVE A WONDERFUL, RELAXING SUMMER! NEXT 2ND WEDNESDAY NEWS publication date: September 14, 2011
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MAY 2011
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A Monthly Publication of the Regional Synod to help keep all members of our churches informed about the -work of their Synod. Please download and share this information.
REGIONAL SYNOD WEBSITE IS UP and RUNNING…The address is www.nysynod.com. It contains the latest news and events, columns, prayer chapel, picture gallery, media player, and even your local classis pages. You may also find pictures of your pastors and friends on the site. Check it out!!!
REPORT OF THE RSNY PRESIDENT… Romans 8:31 states: What then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?
During this past year, I have seen a great many changes taking place within the Regional Synod of New York. For me, the greatest of these changes began with me attending this very meeting for the first time one year ago as your newly elected Second Vice-President and returning this year as your President! Amidst all these changes I have had my doubts and fears about what God had called me to and the direction in which our Regional Synod was going, but I have held fast to my belief in the words of scripture that tells us, If God is for us, who can be against us? I believe that if we remain focused and stay the course doing what God has called us to do, no one or nothing will have the ability to derail what God has set in motion. As we prayerfully moved forward reminded that the work we do as a collective body is for the furtherance of God’s Kingdom here on Earth, with trepidation, we accepted the resignation of the Rev. Clara Woodson whom most of us lovingly know as “Mother Clara.” A search committee has been formed, and I have been informed that the interview process will begin soon. As we accepted the resignation of our former President and Vice-President, we have had the pleasure of welcoming on board the Rev. Mark Mast as our new Vice-President and the Rev. Ann Rost as our Second Vice-President. Since assuming this position as your President, I had the honor of facilitating the Fall Conference meeting focused on mission and social concerns. I have also had the opportunity to visit and work with a few of the churches in our region. As a result of sitting in and presiding over a number of meetings, I have come to realize that we have a number of churches facing problems with membership and finances. To that end, it is my hope that we can all work together to be proactive in strengthening our churches so that each of them can focus their attention on doing ministry and not surviving. As we look to the future of the Regional Synod of New York, let us be prayerful in continuing to bring honor and glory to God through our work as we serve God with distinction. I will do my best, but as anyone that leads an organization will tell you, leaders are only as effective as those with whom they serve. To that end I am relying on each of you to support me, and each other, as together we strive to make our Regional Synod the best that it can be.
Respectfully submitted, Dwayne L. Jackson President RSNY
REMINDER…Synod CP&D Grant Applications are available through the Synod Office. The deadline to receive CLASSIS APPROVED APPLICATIONS is OCTOBER 31ST. Check with your classes to find out when their deadline is to receive the application so they can act on it. Applications received after the deadline will NOT be considered. Applications for the 2013 PD&R Grants will be available in September. Contact the Synod Office if you would like to receive one. MARK YOUR CALENDAR…The Synod PD&R Meeting for all churches currently receiving grants is Saturday, September 10th at 10:00 a.m. at the Synod Office in Tarrytown. A letter will be going out in the near future.
COME WALK WITH US…FOR CAMPERS…Rural & Migrant Ministry kicks off its celebration of Summer Camp with a Walk-A-Thon on SATURDAY, JUNE 4TH. Registration at 9:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Highland, will be followed at 10:00 a.m. with the walk on the Walkway Over the Hudson and a barbeque lunch provided by students from the Culinary Institute of America. RMM’s Summer Camp, funded entirely through private donors and foundations, began in 1989 for rural and migrant children, many of whom were either in summer school, working or migrating and would not have such an opportunity. RMM is the only organization in the region that focuses on the needs of these children and youth. Day programs in 3 communities in 5 rural counties, and a one-week Overnight Camp, welcome over 200 children and youth, ages 8-18 embracing diversity, with a population that is 40% Latino, 40% African-American, and 20% European-American. Registration is $15 for walkers and includes lunch, Lunch Tickets only are $15/person; $50/family of four. For Donation Information contact Laura at rmmllecour@optimum.net or Jane at 845-485-8627 or visit our website: www.ruralmigrantministry.org. Prizes will be awarded for Most Pledges by an individual or group and Most Funds raised by an individual or group. Bring along a friend or your group and enjoy a great day for a great cause! SPONSORS NEEDED…Rural & Migrant Ministry is looking for sponsors that will help underwrite the cost of Anniversary t-shirts for the Walk-A-Thon on June 4th and our summer campers. Sponsorships include lunch, sponsor name on t-shirts and acknowledgement in press releases, on banner and website. If you know of someone who might be willing to be a sponsor or for more information, please call us at 845-485-8627.
SAVE THE DATES, OCTOBER 14-15 to Celebrate Rural & Migrant Ministry’s 30th Anniversary! The celebration will be held at Honor’s Haven, Ellenville. There will be Workshops, Panels, Bible Studies, A Farmworker Band, Youth Art-a-Thon, Apple Picking, Farm Visits and The Gala Dinner on Saturday evening. Invitations will be mailed soon.
The Spiritual Life & Education Committee of the Classis of Queens invites you to its RAINBOW FESTIVAL at Church on the Hill, Saturday, June 11th. We will praise the Lord through Word, Music and Fellowship. Those wishing to perform should respond by Tuesday, May 31st to ruthchen251@aol.com. For more information call the Rev. Norman Chen at (718) 504-7382.
CAMP WARWICK will be leading a mission trip to the Queens Village Reformed Church in Queens for 10-12th graders July 16-23, 2011. The trip will be an exciting time to strengthen your relationship with Christ through service. During this mission project, we will provide much needed painting of the foyer of this historic church, and painting of the wrought iron fence that surrounds the property. For more information about the Queens Village Reformed Church, go to their website at: www.queensreformedchurch.org. This trip will provide an opportunity to build relations with the youth of the Queens Village Church. The cost: $385.00 per person – covers meals, supplies for painting and, possibly a trip to CITI Field to see a NY Mets game. Registrations for summer are still being accepted! Contact Scott at campwarwick@campwarwick.org or 845-986-1164.
DVD AVAILABLE…The School for Christian Living and Serving, an adult education ministry of the Classes of Orange and Mid-Hudson, is offering a DVD of the seminar entitled, The Joy of the Reformed Faith, presented last fall by The Rev. Dr. Renee House, Dean of NBTS. This is an excellent resource for new member and confirmation classes or small groups studying reformed worship. Cost: $10; $12 if mailed…To obtain your DVD contact: Jan Melichar-Utter: mrsjutter98@aol.com or 845-878-0056.
ABOUT THE SYNOD…
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APRIL 2011
A Monthly Publication of the Regional Synod to help keep all members of our churches informed about the -work of their Synod. Please download and share this information.
REGIONAL SYNOD WEBSITE IS UP and RUNNING…The address is www.nysynod.com. It contains the latest news and events, columns, prayer chapel, picture gallery, media player, and even your local classis pages. You may also find pictures of your pastors and friends on the site. Check it out!!! * * * * * * * * * RSNY ANNUAL MEETING…MAY 6-7, 2011 at The Warwick Center, Warwick, New York
THE CHRISTIAN SERVICE DINNER was a huge success, with 400 attending this newly “reorganized” event on April 3rd at the Doubletree Hotel in Tarrytown. The Goliaths of the business world, for some reason, never leave their most crucial ventures in the hands of unpaid, neophyte volunteers, but with the challenge of Kingdom building Jesus did just that! He left his Church in the hands of volunteers: 12 fishermen, tax collectors, activists, and other common laborers. His wisdom in this is marked by the longevity and vibrancy of the Church since the first century. Disciples are assigned to Kingdom tasks by criteria largely known to God alone, however, trust in His grace and power is one of the primary criterions…skill and experience are less important. The evening honored laypersons from 28 churches and classes of the Synod, with each honoree receiving a small gift and plaque in appreciation for their service to God’s work. Go to the Synod’s website to view pictures of the event. We are grateful to God for each honoree!
CHRISTIAN EDUCATORS of the REFORMED CHURCH IN AMERICA (CERCA) presented CERCA’s 2011 Life Achievement Award to Rev. Clara Woodson during the Reformed Church gathering at APCE in Albuquerque on February 3rd. This award is given to a retired educator who has been a leader in the field of Christian education and made a difference in the educational ministries of our churches and communities. CONGRATULATIONS, CLARA!
CANDIDATE FOR GENERAL SECRETARY…Tom DeVries has been selected by the General Synod Council to be presented to the General Synod in June to serve as the next general secretary of the RCA. If approved, he will become the fifth general secretary of the Reformed Church in America, replacing the departing Wes Granberg-Michaelson, who has served for 17 years. DeVries is currently lead pastor at Fair Haven Ministries in Hudsonville, Michigan, and an adjunct professor at Western Theological Seminary.
CURRICULUM for KOREAN YOUTH…New Brunswick Seminary along with G2G Christian Education Center is holding two workshop events to unveil the first Christian curriculum designed for Korean-American youth. The curriculum, based on the “4 C Principle” of Christ, Culture, Community and Church, was developed by three esteemed professors – Rev. Dr. Hak Joon Lee, Rev. Dr. Kil Jae Park and Rev. Dr. Kevin Park. The New York workshop will be at ShinKwang Church in Bayside, NY on Saturday, April 16th. http://www.nbts.edu/attachments/iDentityWorkshopFlyer
COME WALK WITH US…FOR CAMPERS…Rural & Migrant Ministry kicks off its celebration of Summer Camp with a Walk-A-Thon on SATURDAY, JUNE 4TH. Registration at 9:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Highland, will be followed at 10:00 a.m. with the walk on the Walkway Over the Hudson and a barbeque lunch provided by students from the Culinary Institute of America. RMM’s Summer Camp, funded entirely through private donors and foundations, began in 1989 for rural and migrant children, many of whom were either in summer school, working or migrating and would not have such an opportunity. RMM is the only organization in the region that focuses on the needs of these children and youth. Day programs in 3 communities in 5 rural counties, and a one-week Overnight Camp, welcome over 200 children and youth, ages 8-18 embracing diversity, with a population that is 40% Latino, 40% African-American, and 20% European-American. For Registration, Lunch Tickets or Donation Information contact Laura at rmmllecour@optimum.net or Jane at 845-485-8627 or visit our website: www.ruralmigrantministry.org. SPONSORS NEEDED…Rural & Migrant Ministry is looking for sponsors that will help underwrite the cost of Anniversary t-shirts for the Walk-A-Thon on June 4th and our summer campers. If you know of someone who might be willing to be a sponsor, please call us at 845-485-8627.
The Spiritual Life & Education Committee of the Classis of Queens invites you to its RAINBOW FESTIVAL at Church on the Hill, Saturday, June 11th. We will praise the Lord through Word, Music and Fellowship. Those wishing to perform should respond by Tuesday, May 31st to ruthchen251@aol.com.
CAMP WARWICK will be leading a mission trip to the Queens Village Reformed Church in Queens for 10-12th graders July 16-23, 2011. The trip will be an exciting time to strengthen your relationship with Christ through service. During this mission project, we will provide much needed painting of the foyer of this historic church, and painting of the wrought iron fence that surrounds the property. For more information about the Queens Village Reformed Church, go to their website at: www.queensreformedchurch.org. This trip will provide an opportunity to build relations with the youth of the Queens Village Church. We will hang out and get to know them better. The Camp Warwick staff will supervise youth the entire time. The cost: $385.00 per person – covers meals, supplies for painting and, possibly a trip to CITI Field to see a NY Mets game. Registrations for summer are still being accepted! Contact Scott at campwarwick@campwarwick.org or 845-986-1164.
DVD AVAILABLE…The School for Christian Living and Serving, an adult education ministry of the Classes of Orange and Mid-Hudson, is offering a DVD of the seminar entitled, The Joy of the Reformed Faith, presented last fall by The Rev. Dr. Renee House, Dean of NBTS. This is an excellent resource for new member and confirmation classes or small groups studying reformed worship. Cost: $10; $12 if mailed…To obtain your DVD contact: Jan Melichar-Utter: mrsjutter98@aol.com or 845-878-0056.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED… · During April and the first week in May, volunteers are needed to help stain the outside of Mulder Chapel at The Warwick Center. · The second and third weeks of May, Volunteer Coordinator, Paul Nulton, will be working on the sanctuary windows of the Flatbush Reformed Church, Saugerties, NY. Last summer a great many volunteers from Mid-Hudson Classis accomplished outstanding work at the Flatbush Church by the giving of their gifts of time and treasure to cover the expenses of materials. To volunteer for a few days or a week, please contact Paul Nulton, pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org or 845-598-1407.Paul will arrange free room and board for you, when possible.
ABOUT THE SYNOD…
PRAYER CORNER…
REMINDER…Synod CP&D Grant Applications are available through the Synod Office. The deadline to receive CLASSIS APPROVED APPLICATIONS is OCTOBER 31ST. Check with your classes to find out when their deadline is to receive the application so they can act on it and return it to the Synod Office by the deadline.
The Officers and Staff Of the Regional Synod of New York Wish you all a Blessed and Peaceful Holy Week And Easter!
FEBRUARY 2011
A Monthly Publication of the Regional Synod to help keep all members of our churches informed about the -work of their Synod. Please download and share this information.
REGIONAL SYNOD WEBSITE IS UP and RUNNING…The address is www.nysynod.com. It contains the latest news and events, columns, prayer chapel, picture gallery, media player, and even your local classis pages. You may also find pictures of your pastors and friends on the site. Check it out!!!
* * * * * * * * * CHRISTIAN SERVICE DINNER SUNDAY, APRIL 3, 2011 DOUBLE TREE HOTEL TARRYTOWN, NEW YORK 5:00 P.M.
Laity who have offered yeoman service to their churches and community will be feted at the Synod’s Christian Service Dinner. Still portraits and candids of each honoree will be displayed on screens throughout the evening and during the presentation of awards. Michael Kelley Blanchard, a frequent and highly touted presence in our Synod and other Reformed Church settings lately, will guide celebrants in tracing their individual stories. A writer, composer, and singer of renown, his talents creatively nudge people to identify the hand of God therein. After a couple of decades away, this triennial event returns to the boundaries of the Synod, Tarrytown, improving auto, train and bus accessibility. The evening begins with a “soft” cocktail hour at 5:00 p.m., continues with dinner at 6:00 p.m., and concludes at 9:00 p.m. It promises to be an enjoyable time of community, spiritual reflection, and thanks to God for the gift of selfless servants in our midst. **PLEASE NOTE: All honoree information, INCLUDING a picture or pictures of the honoree, and reservations MUST be sent to the Synod office by March 11, 2011. Vegetarian meals are available. Please indicate how many are needed on your reservation form.
NORTHWESTERN COLLEGE DRAMA TEAM is coming to Mulder Chapel at The Warwick Center on Friday, March 11th… There will be a dinner prior to the performance for RCA Church Youth and teens to meet and interact with the drama team. President Christy, the new President of Northwestern, will be present to meet with all who come. President Christy will have either breakfast or lunch with Alumni, Pastors, friends and interested parents and teens on Saturday, March 12th. **Further details will be sent as soon as they are finalized with presenters – watch your mailbox! Northwestern is a Christian Liberal Arts College of the Reformed Church in America located in Orange City, Iowa. Its drama program and performances are nationally recognized and rated among the best in American colleges and universities. They center on Christian drama, and this spring’s performances will feature Bible stories as well as the experiences of an RCA Missionary on the field. For those desiring to stay overnight on March 11th, please call the Warwick Center, 845-986-1164.
OPPORTUNTIES TO LEARN AND GROW IN FAITH…
ROOM for ALL hosts SHOWER OF STOLES at RCA churches throughout the Capital District thru March 5th… The Shower of Stoles is an extraordinary collection of liturgical stoles and other sacred items representing the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people of faith. These religious leaders have served in over thirty denominations and faith traditions, including the RCA, and come from six countries on three continents. This project celebrates the gifts of LGBT persons who serve God in countless ways, while lifting up those who have been excluded from service because of the sexual orientation or gender identity…the Project began in 1995 and now includes over 1,000 stoles, testimony to the lives and voices of LGBT persons of faith who have been silenced by the church. For more information on this Project and an up-coming March Training Event sponsored by Room for All, contact Marilyn Paarlberg at marilynpaarlberg@gmail.com.
THE FORCE of KINDNESS…The 2nd Women’s Conference Luncheon will be held at The Reformed Church of Shawangunk, Saturday, March 12th (12:00 noon – 3:00 p.m.) The guest speaker will be Rev. Dr. Kathleen Chase, Pastor of the Pompton Plains Reformed Church, New Jersey. A love offering will be received. RSVP by March 5th @ 845-895-2952
NEWS from THE WARWICK CENTER… · Confirmation Retreat March 11 – 13 (Spiritual Leader: Kenneth Tenckinck, Executive (Available to all Confirmation Classes) Director of The Warwick Center) · Elementary Youth Rally (Grades 2-5) March 18 – 20 (Spiritual Leader: Scott Cherry, Youth Ministy Director, Camp Warwick · Spring Fling Youth Rally (Grades 6-12) April 29 – May 1 (Spiritual Leader: Ian Rottenberg, Ph.D. Candidate & Former Camp Warwick Chaplain) Registration Information has been mailed. CAMP COUNSELOR APPLICATIONS for summer 2011 are now being accepted. If you love working with kids, want to do something completely different and grow in ways you never thought you could, please consider this opportunity. Follow Camp Warwick on Facebook. Questions? Call Scott or Mike at 845-986-1164 and check the website: www.campwarwick.com
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED… · During April and the first week in May, volunteers are needed to help stain the outside of Mulder Chapel at The Warwick Center. · The second and third weeks of May, Volunteer Coordinator, Paul Nulton, will be working on the sanctuary windows of the Flatbush Reformed Church, Saugerties, NY. Last summer a great many volunteers from Mid-Hudson Classis accomplished outstanding work at the Flatbush Church by the giving of their gifts of time and treasure to cover the expenses of materials. To volunteer for a few days or a week, please contact Paul Nulton, pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org or 845-598-1407. Paul will arrange free room and board for you, when possible.
APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE…IMPORTANT REMINDERS…DEADLINES ARE NEAR…
These CLASSIS APPROVED applications MUST be returned to the Synod Office by March 1, 2011 in order to be considered.
ABOUT THE SYNOD…
PRAYER CORNER…Prayers for healing, wisdom for the medical personnel and the families of:
JANUARY 2011
A Monthly Publication of the Regional Synod to help keep all members of our churches informed about the -work of their Synod. Please download and share this information.
REGIONAL SYNOD WEBSITE IS UP and RUNNING…The address is www.nysynod.com. It contains the latest news and events, columns, prayer chapel, picture gallery, media player, and even your local classis pages. You may also find pictures of your pastors and friends on the site. Check it out!!!
* * * * * * * * * HAPPY NEW YEAR Dear Friends,
One of the most wonderful beliefs we have is that God is always ahead of us beckoning us to move on into the future, ready to try again, looking to make the best of the past and in anticipation that the best is yet to come. Living with the “great recession,” high unemployment, and that great number of people who have given up on church attendance make us question a positive outlook on the health and future of our churches. We must use a good amount of caution not to let the present moments of our lives convince us of anything. With that in mind, I appreciate the advice given by E. Stanley Jones, Many teachers of the world have tried to explain everything – they have changed little or nothing. Jesus explained little and changed everything. He simply calls us to follow him – to live as He lived, to trust the goodness of God, to be kind to others, to forgive the sins of those who sin against us, and to count one’s own desire to be generous a gift of God. As we face the future, let the core of our being be that we are followers of Jesus. The seasons of life come and go – good times and difficult times, sickness and health. In all times we are called to do our best to be known as Christians. Friends, today, as always, Jesus stands in front of us calling us to follow after Him. And, in spite of our logical fears of this spiritual direction, let us not give up hope, but stand firm in believing in the love of God for us and all His creation. It is in answering this call that we find our true strength, our purpose. It is God’s will for us all in this new year and always.
Yours faithfully, Jon N. Norton, Executive Minister, RSNY
PART-TIME POSITION, SYNOD AREA MINISTER… The Regional Synod of New York, Reformed Church in America, has created the staff position of Synod Area Minister (SAM) to enable RSNY in the furtherance of its mission to assist the classes and local congregations in doing the work of Christ. The Rev. Clara Woodson has retired from her position as Synod Area Minister, serving the Classes of Brooklyn, New York and Rockland/Westchester, as of December 31, 2010. The Regional Synod is now accepting applications for this position. A letter of intent should be sent to the Synod Office before January 31, 2011 to be considered for this position. The person chosen for the position will be interviewed by a search committee made up of six (6) representatives from each of the Classes Rev. Woodson served. A recommendation will be made to the Synod’s Executive Committee, who will hire the person for the Area Minister position. To request a full Job Description or if you have questions, please contact the RSNY Office at 914-332-1311 or Rsynod@aol.com.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS…Sunday, April 3, 2011…Christian Service Dinner…This year’s event promises to be new and improved. The dinner will be held at the Double Tree Hotel in Tarrytown. Watch for information coming later this month. Pamela Edwards is the chairperson for this event.
ART FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE created by the Youth Arts Group of Rural & Migrant Ministry is on display at the Newburgh Free Library through the month of January.
NEWS from THE WARWICK CENTER… Camp Warwick has added a new mini-retreat to the youth rally schedule! Changed by Grace, based on James 4:6-7 will be held January 29 – 30, 2011. Camp Warwick’s Youth Programs Director, Scott Cherry will lead the rally that is open to all grades 6 – 12 youth groups. · Junior High (Grades 6-8) February 4 – 6 (Spiritual Leader: Dan Marse-Kapr, Youth · Senior High (Grades 9-12) February 11 – 13 Pastor, Comm. Church of Harrington Park) · Confirmation Retreat March 11 – 13 (Spiritual Leader: Kenneth Tenckinck, Executive (Available to all Confirmation Classes) Director of The Warwick Center) · Elementary Youth Rally (Grades 2-5) March 18 – 20 (Spiritual Leader: Scott Cherry, Youth Ministy Director, Camp Warwick · Spring Fling Youth Rally (Grades 6-12) April 29 – May 1 (Spiritual Leader: Ian Rottenberg, Ph.D. Candidate & Former Camp Warwick Chaplain) Registration Information has been mailed. CAMP COUNSELOR APPLICATIONS for summer 2011 are now being accepted. If you love working with kids, want to do something completely different and grow in ways you never thought you could, please consider this opportunity. Follow Camp Warwick on Facebook. Questions? Call Scott or Mike at 845-986-1164 and check the website: www.campwarwick.com
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED… · The Warwick Center is in need of volunteers to do painting January thru February 12 (except Jan.13-22) · During April and the first week in May, volunteers are needed to help stain the outside of Mulder Chapel To volunteer for a few days or a week, please contact Paul Nulton, pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org or 845-598-1407. Paul will arrange free room and when possible, board, for you.
APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE…
These applications MUST be returned to the Synod Office by March 1, 2011 in order to be considered.
SUMMER GRANT DOLLARS MAKE A DIFFERENCE…A wonderful Vacation Bible School experience was made possible by 13 adults and 15 teen helpers from Bloomington Reformed Church, Rochester Reformed Church, High Falls Community Church, Roundout Valley Methodist Church and Christ the King Episcopal Church. A total of 47 children from the churches and from two migrant camps in the area were involved in this multi-racial, multi-cultural experience. Held at Camp Epworth, a Methodist Camp in the High Falls area, the day began at 8:30 a.m. with breakfast. The theme was Notes to Africa – notes and offerings were shared with school children in Africa. Arts and crafts, drumming, games, swimming, a variety of projects and studies filled the days. Lunch was enjoyed by all each day with food provided by area churches and a local Food Pantry. As children left on the last day, their comments said it all: We do this again next year, right!?! I cannot wait until next summer when I can come back to have so much fun and learn so many new things! A tired group of teachers are looking forward to a bigger and better experience next year. The cooperative efforts of these congregations, encouraged with some helpful in-put from Rev. Richard Witt, Executive Director of Rural & Migrant Ministry, greatly enhanced the outcome and the results – we are deeply thankful.
ABOUT THE SYNOD…
December 2010
MERRY CHRISTMAS & A BLESSED NEW YEAR Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace…
Our Lord Jesus calls us to follow after him, to model our lives after his, to try our best to speak as he would have spoken, to treat others as he would have treated them, to be an example so others see His Spirit acted out in our lives. His lowly birth gives us, his followers, hope that by doing this, even we can make a difference in such a huge, complicated and impersonal world. We, the followers of Jesus, celebrate this Christmas season and every season. We humble folk are entrusted with such tremendous responsibility: to be a light to the nations, to bring good news to the poor, to bring peace on earth and goodwill between people. We celebrate that this is true, for we have seen lives change, forgiveness given, generosity shown, all because of the love of Jesus Christ in our lives and in the lives of those around us. My friends, I have seen the love of Jesus Christ at work over and over again in my work among you. His presence within all of you is a light in my life, the good news that I have heard, and a peace that I have witnessed. So to all of you, I wish YOU a Merry Christmas. The Spirit of Jesus working in all of you is a precious gift from God to me, and I thank you.
Yours faithfully, Jon N. Norton, Executive Minister, RSNY
The prophet Isaiah’s words (Chapter 11) about a time when the peace of God will be as a wolf or leopard sitting side by side with a lamb, and as a child playing over the den of a poisonous snake and not be harmed, stirs our excitement over the gift of the Prince of Peace who continually shows us the way to live into this peace now. May this gift fire up our imaginations and resolve to follow the One who is the Way, and may you see many blessings this Advent and Christmas season! Tom Danney, Synod Area Minister, RSNY (Classes of Mid-Hudson & Orange)
***The reign of God in the midst of today’s world? Evangelism for today’s church? See Raymond Fong’s 1992, WCC publication: The Isaiah Vision: An Ecumenical Strategy for Congregational Evangelism for his understanding of Isaiah’s agenda that makes room for all to participate in God’s work.
BLESSINGS, MOTHER WOODSON…The Regional Synod of New York is indebted to The Reverend Clara Woodson, Synod Area Minister for the Classes of Brooklyn, New York and Rockland-Westchester. The Rev. Woodson has brought a spirit of kindness, love, acceptance and prayer to all within the classes and the churches she has served. In the African-American culture she is loved and honored with the title of “Mother Woodson.” In fact, she is revered throughout the entire Regional Synod, made up of over 35 cultures that speak twelve different languages, as “Mother Woodson.” She will be retiring from her position as of December 31st. Mother Clara…We will miss your gentle hand on our shoulders. You have been an inspiration to us all. God has blessed us through you. To God be the glory!
PART-TIME POSITION, SYNOD AREA MINISTER… The Regional Synod of New York, Reformed Church in America, has created the staff position of Synod Area Minister (SAM) to enable RSNY in the furtherance of its mission to assist the classes and local congregations in doing the work of Christ. The Rev. Clara Woodson will retire from her position as Synod Area Minister, serving the Classes of Brooklyn, New York and Rockland/Westchester, as of December 31, 2010. The Regional Synod is now accepting applications for this position. A letter of intent should be sent to the Synod Office before January 31, 2011 to be considered for this position vacated by Rev. Woodson. The person chosen for the position will be interviewed by a search committee made up of six (6) representatives from each of the Classes Rev. Woodson served. A recommendation will be made to the Synod’s Executive Committee, who will hire the person for the Area Minister position. To request a full Job Description or if you have questions, please contact the RSNY Office at 914-332-1311 or Rsynod@aol.com.
NEWS from THE WARWICK CENTER… Camp Warwick has added a new mini-retreat to the youth rally schedule! Changed by Grace, based on James 4:6-7 will be held January 29 – 30, 2011. Camp Warwick’s Youth Programs Director, Scott Cherry will lead the rally that is open to all grades 6 – 12 youth groups. · Junior High (Grades 6-8) February 4 – 6 (Spiritual Leader: Dan Marse-Kapr, Youth · Senior High (Grades 9-12) February 11 – 13 Pastor, Comm. Church of Harrington Park) · Confirmation Retreat March 11 – 13 (Spiritual Leader: Kenneth Tenckinck, Executive (Available to all Confirmation Classes) Director of The Warwick Center) · Elementary Youth Rally (Grades 2-5) March 18 – 20 (Spiritual Leader: Scott Cherry, Youth Ministy Director, Camp Warwick · Spring Fling Youth Rally (Grades 6-12) April 29 – May 1 (Spiritual Leader: Ian Rottenberg, Ph.D. Candidate & Former Camp Warwick Chaplain) Registration Information has been mailed. Follow Camp Warwick on Facebook. Questions? Call Scott or Mike at 845-986-1164 and check the website: www.campwarwick.com
THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS… · Thank you Hopewell Reformed Church, Hopewell Junction and the Massapequa Reformed Church for their great work at Flatbush Reformed Church in Saugerties and at Grace Reformed, Brooklyn. · Thank you to Port Ewen Reformed Church for their generous financial gift that made the man lift and materials possible for the Flatbush Reformed Church project. There are sufficient funds to pay for the paint to do the interior of the church as well. Many other churches and their members participated but the volunteer efforts of these three churches stand out as examples of covenant faithfulness to us all. · The Warwick Center is in need of volunteers to do painting January thru March 12th (except Jan.13-22) To volunteer for a few days or a week, please contact Paul Nulton, pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org or 845-598-1407. Paul will arrange free room and when possible, board, for you.
APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE…
These applications MUST be returned to the Synod Office by March 1, 2011 in order to be considered.
ABOUT THE SYNOD…
November 2010
A Monthly Publication of the Regional Synod to help keep all members of our churches informed about the -work of their Synod. Please download and share this information.
REGIONAL SYNOD WEBSITE IS UP and RUNNING…The address is www.nysynod.com. It contains the latest news and events, columns, prayer chapel, picture gallery, media player, and even your local classis pages. You may also find pictures of your pastors and friends on the site. Check it out!!!
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MEET YOUR NEW REGIONAL SYNOD OFFICERS… President: Rev. Dwayne Jackson, has served as pastor of First Reformed Church , Astoria, for ten years (Queens) He is a well respected leader in his community and the RCA. 1st V-P: Rev. Dr. Mark Mast is the Associate Pastor of Outreach Ministry at the Hopewell Reformed Church, Hopewell Junction (Mid-Hudson). His ministry has involved the Hopewell Church in the starting of two new ministries in surrounding communities – HRC Journey and Common Ground. HRC Journey is a New Church Start working among families who are blessed with a family member who is struggling with a life-challenging situation. Common Ground is a New Church Start aimed at reaching out to those who do not want to join a traditional church but would like to experiment with new and different ways to worship and serve the Lord. Mark has also been involved in the planning of sharing another one of Hopewell’s pastors, Randal Prentiss with the Arlington Reformed Church in Poughkeepsie. Mark is currently the Regional Synod of New York’s representative on the Church Multiplication Team of the Reformed Church in America. 2nd V-P: Rev. Ann Rost is the pastor of the Deerpark Reformed Church in Port Jervis, NY. Her ministry among the people of Port Jervis has experienced growth and excitement. Port Jervis is a small town with a long history of railroad involvement. As the railroads’ importance diminished in our country the prosperity and vitality of the community was greatly challenged. God is using Ann’s ministry of encouragement to challenge the church, and the church’s decline is being reversed and its life and ministry are becoming more vibrant. Ann has also served faithfully on the board of The School for Christian Living and Serving, an adult educational ministry of the Classes of Mid-Hudson and Orange. She is a gifted teacher and her wisdom will be missed by the Curriculum Committee. Both Mark and Ann have expressed that they felt God calling them into their ministries within the Regional Synod. They both have wonderful gifts, and they are allowing God to use them for the benefit of all the churches of the Synod.
PART-TIME POSITION, SYNOD AREA MINISTER… The Regional Synod of New York, Reformed Church in America, has created the staff position of Synod Area Minister (SAM) to enable RSNY in the furtherance of its mission to assist the classes and local congregations in doing the work of Christ. The Regional Synod’s staff team of five – three Synod Area Ministers, an Administrative Assistant, and the Synod Executive Minister (under whose direction and supervision the Synod Area Ministers will function) – will be guided by the mission statement of the RSNY. The Rev. Clara Woodson will retire from her position as Synod Area Minister, serving the Classes of Brooklyn, New York and Rockland/Westchester, as of December 31, 2010. The Regional Synod is now accepting applications for this position. A letter of intent should be sent to the Synod Office before January 31, 2011 to be considered for this position vacated by Rev. Woodson. The person chosen for the position will be interviewed by a search committee made up of six (6) representatives from each of the Classes Rev. Woodson served. A recommendation will be made to the Synod’s Executive Committee, who will hire the person for the Area Minister position. To request a full Job Description or if you have questions, please contact the RSNY Office at 914-332-1311 or Rsynod@aol.com.
THE HEAT IS ON…A multi-cultural event for middle and high school youth is being planned for November 26-28. For more information, contact Rev. Carlos H. Rivera, 718-435-4914.
NEWS from THE WARWICK CENTER… Camp Warwick Announces 2011 Winter Youth Rally Schedule… Camp Warwick has added a new mini-retreat to the youth rally schedule! Changed by Grace, based on James 4:6-7 will be held January 29 – 30, 2011. Camp Warwick’s Youth Programs Director, Scott Cherry will lead the rally that is open to all grades 6 – 12 youth groups. · Junior High (Grades 6-8) February 4 – 6 (Spiritual Leader: Dan Marse-Kapr, Youth · Senior High (Grades 9-12) February 11 – 13 Pastor, Comm. Church of Harrington Park) · Confirmation Retreat March 11 – 13 (Spiritual Leader: Kenneth Tenckinck, Executive (Available to all Confirmation Classes) Director of The Warwick Center) · Elementary Youth Rally (Grades 2-5) March 18 – 20 (Spiritual Leader: Scott Cherry, Youth Ministy Director, Camp Warwick · Spring Fling Youth Rally (Grades 6-12) April 29 – May 1 (Spiritual Leader: Ian Rottenberg, Ph.D. Candidate & Former Camp Warwick Chaplain) Registration Information has been mailed. Follow Camp Warwick on Facebook. Questions? Call Scott or Mike at 845-986-1164 and check the website: www.campwarwick.com
WALKING IN BALANCE…The Annual APCE (Association of Presbyterian Church Educators) Conference will be held February 2 – 5, 2011 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. So, here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life- your sleeping, going-to-work, and walking around life – place it before God as an offering. -Romans 12:1 (The Message) This conference is open to all those involved in their church’s Christian Education programs. Are you looking for new resources, more affirmation for your ministry, an opportunity to learn and grow with a thousand or more folks striving to offer the best Christian Education programs possible for their church families? Then consider attending APCE 2011! During the conference participants will explore how they as leaders in the churches try to take care of others: as well ask the question: Are we taking care of ourselves? In addition to over 120 workshops, tours and certification courses, there is a pre-conference Balancing Your Ordinary Life and a post-conference overnight trip to Ghost Ranch. Presbyterian Youth Workers will be holding their Winter Symposium in conjunction with the Annual Event. To download the Conference Registration and Information Book, go to apcenet.org. NOTE: Early bird registration must by postmarked on or before December 3, 2010. Scholarships for first-time attendees are available from the RCA Office of Discipleship. If you have attended previous conferences, the Spiritual Life and Education Committee of the RSNY has some funds available. Contact Jane Konitz, 845-297-5864 or c.konitz@verizon.net by November 30th.
TWO GREAT TOOLS NOW AVAILABLE ON THE RCA WEBSITE! · “Tool for Using the Principles of the Belhar Confession in Planning and Evaluating.” It’s a very practical, behaviorally oriented tool that helps individuals and groups assess and evaluate almost anything (conver-sations, relationships, meetings, events and initiatives) against the three principles of the Belhar Confession – Unity, Reconciliation and Justice. ttps://www.rca.org/sslpage.aspx?pid-6808 · “Welcoming Diversity: An Inventory for Congregations.” This comprehensive tool helps identify hidden barriers that can hinder people from other racial/ethnic backgrounds from feeling at home in our congregations. It can help local churches become more effective in embracing people of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds in ways that help them find honorable places among us. Check out the RCA’s website at this URL: https://www.rca.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=6807
ABOUT THE SYNOD…
October 2010
A Monthly Publication of the Regional Synod to help keep all members of our churches informed about the -work of their Synod. Please download and share this information.
REGIONAL SYNOD WEBSITE IS UP and RUNNING…The address is www.nysynod.com. It contains the latest news and events, columns, prayer chapel, picture gallery, media player, and even your local classis pages. You may also find pictures of your pastors and friends on the site. Check it out!!!
* * * * * * * * * MISSION IMPACT: CONGREGATIONAL MINISTRY Sponsored By The Mission, Outreach & Social Concerns Committee of The Regional Synod of New York
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2010 9:00 A.M. – 3:30 P.M. GREENVILLE REFORMED CHURCH SCARSDALE, NEW YORK One thing known about the current generation is that churches who seek to discover the physical and spiritual needs of people within their neighborhood who are not attending their church, and through the power of the Spirit of Jesus Christ make it their purpose to plan for and implement ways to meet those needs, tend to grow more healthy in their own spiritual development as well as numerical size. This event is designed to help churches improve their ability to search the hearts and minds of those who need the gifts of God’s love that only the church can provide.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Rev. Terry Troia Project Hospitality Earl James Coordinator for Multiracial Initiatives and Social Justice, RCA
A PANEL OF CHURCH LEADERS WHO HAVE SUCCESSFULLY MET THE NEEDS OF THEIR CHANGING COMMUNITIES Seth & Stephanie Kaper-Dale: Highland Park Reformed Church, have designed, sought-out funds and overseen the construction of a building that now houses families in need. Lisa Sharon Harper: Executive Director of Faith Leader for Environmental Justice She works with those who wish to work with issues of health disparities exacerbated by environmental, social and substance causes Alan Ramirez: Pastor of the Brookville Reformed Church For several years he has worked with problems of Latino day laborers. He knows the important issues involved and has developed several ministries that will help churches to be more hospitable and compassionate to the stranger within our gates. Richard Witt: Executive Director of Rural & Migrant Ministry This ministry serves migrant workers and their families across New York State helping them gain a better quality of life and obtain basic human needs.
CIRCLES OF SHARING (Participants may choose 2) Hunger/Emergency Food Distribution; Hunger/Soup Kitchens; Prison Ministry; Homeless Shelters; Differently-abled Ministries; Neighborhood Building; Outreach to Addicts; Health Ministries; Youth; Racial/Social/Sexual Justice; Environmental Justice; Christian/Muslim Dialogue
Lunch will be provided. A $5.00 Good-Will Offering is suggested to defray costs. RSVP by October 20th. REMINDER: Synod Grant Applications are due in the Synod Office by the end of this month. Any application NOT received by NOVEMBER 1ST WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED by the PD&R Committee.
WARWICK OPEN HOUSE DAYS…Monday, October 18 and Tuesday, October 19 at Camp Warwick Collegiate Lodge. Reflections on Recovery: Body, Mind, Spirit, Balance will be presented by the Rev. Dr. Barbara Fillette, Director, Reformed Church Center, New Brunswick Seminary and Pastor Emeritus, North and Southampton Reformed Church, Churchville, PA. Tours of the Center will include the newly completed St. Paul’s Prayer Chapel. Please join us for a special day of worship, fun and fellowship. Cost: $15.00. Call Warwick today, 845-986-1164.
JON NORTON TO BE HONORED…The Council of Churches of the City of New York will honor Jon Norton at the 2010 Annual Awards and Recognition banquet by presenting him with the Executive Leadership Award on October 21st. The Executive Leadership Award is awarded to outstanding judicatory leaders. We would like to recognize the leader-ship, commitment and dedication you have shown as the Executive Minister of the Regional Synod of New York, RCA, and as a member of our board. Congratulations, Jon!
THE HEAT IS ON…A multi-cultural event for middle and high school youth is being planned for November 26-28. For more information, contact Rev. Carlos H. Rivera, 718-435-4914.
NEWS from THE WARWICK CENTER… Camp Warwick Announces 2011 Winter Youth Rally Schedule… · Junior High (Grades 6-8) February 4 – 6 (Spiritual Leader: Dan Marse-Kapr, Youth · Senior High (Grades 9-12) February 11 – 13 Pastor, Comm. Church of Harrington Park) · Confirmation Retreat March 11 – 13 (Spiritual Leader: Kenneth Tenckinck, Executive (Available to all Confirmation Classes) Director of The Warwick Center) · Elementary Youth Rally (Grades 2-5) March 18 – 20 (Spiritual Leader: Scott Cherry, Youth Ministy Director, Camp Warwick Registration Information will be mailed this month. Questions? Call Scott or Mike at 845-986-1164.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED…September 13-30…Volunteers are needed to help paint and prepare to paint at The Warwick Center. A team from North Holland Reformed Church, Holland, MI, accomplished a great deal of scraping, caulking etc. in preparation, but there is more to be done. There is an area that a youth group could finish on a Saturday. From Monday, October 18 – Saturday, November 6, volunteers are needed to help shingle the front sections of Cabins A and B of the Warwick Youth Center. For more details and to volunteer, contact Paul Nulton, Synod of Mid-Atlantics & New York Volunteer Coordinator, at pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org or 845-598-1407 (cell) or 845-986-2052 (office).
THE JOY OF THE REFORMED FAITH…SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6TH, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The School for Christian Living and Serving will welcome The Rev. Dr. Rene House, Dean of New Brunswick Seminary, who will lead the seminar at the Wallkill Reformed Church, Wallkill. Together we will engage in a close reading and discussion of our ecumenical and Reformed confessions in order to get our minds and hearts around the distinctive shape of the Reformed faith. Ultimately, Reformed faith is a faith that intends to confirm in us the goodness and joy of the Lord, to transform every aspect of our lives, and to evoke our thanksgiving in the shape of world-changing service. This event is being underwritten by the Emily Paulsen Scholarship Fund. Advance registration by e-mail or phone for catering purposes is needed. Please contact the Registrar, Desiree Albizu at 518-537-4221 or albizu@valstar.net. $5.00 will be collected at the door to defray the cost of lunch. **Please note: If you are planning to attend, please review The Heidelberg Catechism and RCA’s Song of Hope Both of these documents can be found on the RCA website.
NASSAU-SUFFOLK CLASSIS COMMISSIONS PASTOR JOANNE ALBANESE… For the first time in the life and ministry of the Classis of Nassau-Suffolk and the Regional Synod of New York, we have a Commissioned Pastor. Joanne Albanese was Commissioned on June 22, 2010 by the Classis of Nassau-Suffolk. Following a long and successful career in Education, Ms. Albanese, who has served as an Elder at the New Life Community Church in Sayville and is currently serving as the Clerk of the Nassau-Suffolk Classis, responded to God’s call to serve in professional ministry as a Commissioned Pastor. She was recommended for this position by her home church and completed the required training course offered by New Brunswick Seminary. The service was led by: Rev. Jon Norton, RSNY Executive Minister; Rev. Dr. Scott Rees, Pastor of New Life Community Church, Sayville and the Rev. Dr. Stephen Giordano, Pastor of the Massapequa Reformed Church and President of the Classis. Letters of congratulations can be sent to Pastor Joanne Albanese at joalba@verizon.net. ABOUT THE SYNOD
The church’s pastor, Rev. Patricia Singletary graduated with her Doctorate of Ministry degree from New Brunswick Seminary. Her dissertation research topic was: How the Discovery of a Colonial African Burial Ground Affected the Life and Ministry of the Elmendorf Reformed Church of Harlem, New York.
Rev. Douglas Banks is the church’s pastor and Rev. Sharon Atkins is the Associate Pastor.
MORE EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
The first seminar, Confessions as Public Theology: How the Confessions Reflect a Theological Understanding of the Relationship between the Church and Political Authority led by Dr. Allan Janssen. RSVP to Barbara Fillette, bfillette@nbts.edu
The Discipleship Team for the Regional Synod of New York (Pastor Anna Jackson, Queens Reformed Church; Pastor Dwayne Jackson, First Reformed Church of Astoria; Pastor Paul Quevedo, The Reformed Church of Locust Valley, Elder Anna Bishop, Parkway Community Church and Commissioned Pastor Joanne Albanese, Nassau-Suffolk) are excited to announce that The Reformed Church in America in partnership with Christian Reformed Church, the Journey and Calvin Seminary in Grand Rapids, MI, will present a Discipleship and Small Group Conference. The conference will take place at Calvin Seminary in Grand Rapids and will be simulcast to eight sites around the US and Canada featuring Keynote Speaker, James Bryan Smith, author of The Good and Beautiful God, The Good and Beautiful Life and coming soon, The Good and Beautiful Community. For more information regarding registration, workshops, etc. please contact Joanne Albanese, joalba@verizon.net.
UP-COMING DATE TO NOTE: PUT IT ON YOUR CALENDAR NOW!
ONE couple or individual/church).
September 2010
A Monthly Publication of the Regional Synod to help keep all members of our churches informed about the -work of their Synod. Please download and share this information.
REGIONAL SYNOD WEBSITE IS UP and RUNNING…The address is www.nysynod.com. It contains the latest news and events, columns, prayer chapel, picture gallery, media player, and even your local classis pages. You may also find pictures of your pastors and friends on the site. Check it out!!!
* * * * * * * * * WHAT DOES THE LORD REQUIRE? DO JUSTICE, LOVE KINDNESS, WALK HUMBLY WITH YOUR GOD Sponsored By The Mission, Outreach & Social Concerns Committee of The Regional Synod of New York
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2010 9:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. GREENVILLE REFORMED CHURCH SCARSDALE, NEW YORK
An event designed to help churches improve their ability to search the hearts and minds of those who need the gifts of God’s love that the church can provide. * * * * * * * * * *
WARWICK OPEN HOUSE DAYS…Monday, October 18 and Tuesday, October 19 at Camp Warwick Collegiate Lodge. Reflections on Recovery: Body, Mind, Spirit, Balance will be presented by the Rev. Dr. Barbara Fillette, Director, Reformed Church Center, New Brunswick Seminary and Pastor Emeritus, North and Southampton Reformed Church, Churchville, PA. Please join us for a special day of worship, fun and fellowship. The program begins at 9:30 a.m. with coffee, tea and muffins. Lunch will be served at noon. Campus tours of The Warwick Center will be available after lunch. Registration for the program and lunch is $15.00 by October 8, 2010. Please send registration and full payment to: Women’s Auxiliary, The Warwick Center, PO Box 349, Warwick, NY 10990 or e-mail: programs@warwickcenter.com
JON NORTON TO BE HONORED…The Council of Churches of the City of New York will honor Jon Norton at the 2010 Annual Awards and Recognition banquet by presenting him with the Executive Leadership Award on October 21st. The Executive Leadership Award is awarded to outstanding judicatory leaders. We would like to recognize the leader-ship, commitment and dedication you have shown as the Executive Minister of the Regional Synod of New York, RCA, and as a member of our board. For more details, contact the Synod Office. Congratulations, Jon!
THE HEAT IS ON…A multi-cultural event for middle and high school youth is being planned for November 26-28. For more information, contact Rev. Carlos H. Rivera, 718-435-4914.
THE JOY OF THE LORD IS MY STRENGTH…Bowne Street Community Church held a two week E-Q Camp (8/23-9/3) aimed at strengthening children’s Emotional Intelligence. Forty-eight children and 22 staff gathered and experienced abundant joy from the Lord. The camp was well recognized in the community. Garden of Hope, a Christian non-profit organization that provides support for domestic violence victims, referred 10 children to the camp. At the final presentation (9/3) the children and youth volunteers shared everything they had learned during camp through praise, music, dance and skits. The director of Ya Tong Theatre Company, Shinn-Rong Chung, presented a skit, “Pinocchio,” to encourage kids that everybody is special in God’s eyes. The youth volunteers presented a skit based on I Timothy 4:12 to demonstrate a young person being a good model in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. Almost 100 attendees ended up spinning around with God’s love. Many parents expressed their appreciation for the life transformation of their children during camp. Parents and community friends are looking forward to next summer!
NEWS from THE WARWICK CENTER Camp Warwick Announces 2011 Winter Youth Rally Schedule… · Junior High (Grades 6-8) February 4 – 6 · Senior High (Grades 9-12) February 11 – 13 · Confirmation Retreat March 11 – 13 (Available to all Confirmation Classes) · Elementary Youth Rally (Grades 2-5) March 18 – 20 · Spring Fling Youth Rally (Grades 6-12) April 29 – May 1 Registration Information will be mailed this month. Questions? Call Scott or Mike at 845-986-1164.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED…September 13-30…Volunteers are needed to help paint and prepare to paint at The Warwick Center. A team from North Holland Reformed Church, Holland, MI, accomplished a great deal of scraping, caulking etc. in preparation, but there is more to be done. There is an area that a youth group could finish on a Saturday. From Monday, October 18 – Saturday, November 6, volunteers are needed to help shingle the front sections of Cabins A and B of the Warwick Youth Center. For more details and to volunteer, contact Paul Nulton, Synod of Mid-Atlantics & New York Volunteer Coordinator, at pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org or 845-598-1407 (cell) or 845-986-2052 (office).
UP-COMING DATES TO NOTE: PUT THEM ON YOUR CALENDARS NOW!
Crunch Time in the Small Church, a webinar series with Alice Mann, Senior Alban Consultant. If you know the work of Alban Institute and Alice Mann, you will find much to think about in We Can’t Keep Going Like This! – September 14; What Choices Do I Have? – September 21; and Let’s Not Go It Alone – September 29. All are at 2 :00 p.m. and $29.95 each. Watch it alone, with church leaders, a colleague or host a classis group (same price). Go to www.Alban.org, click education or webinars. IN THE NEWS study, titled, The Mosque at Ground Zero, featuring Martin Marty from The Thoughtful `Christian (thethoughtfulchristian.com) moves away from many of the secular, political arguments we’ve heard on our favorite news program. Instead, participants will focus on the Christian perspectives of this controversy and look to the Bible instead of the media to examine these religious concerns. NEW BOOK…Reframing Hope by Carol Howard Merritt – Hope may look different to a 25-year-old web designer than it does to a 60-year-old deacon. But it is hope nonetheless.
ABOUT THE SYNOD
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