Sunday, April 27, 2008

April 27, 2008 Historic Moment

Did you know.... The first recorded marriage in our church history was on September 25, 1765.... "were married with a license by Dominie Fryenmoet, John Jewel, J. M., and Jannetje Monfoort, W.D., both born and residing in Dutchess County."

April 27, 2008 Remembrance

Palm Sunday and Easter Portrayed for the School.

The crown he spurned was flattery, cheap fool's gold.
The sword and scepter he forbore to hold
Corroded soon before the acid bite
Of treachery and slander and despite.

But scars comprise, in fadeless crimson now,
The chosen circlet for his royal brow,
While each deep naiprint eloquently stands
For more than sword and scepter in his hands.

he lifts his cross of brotherhood to wield,
And where the shadow touches, hearts are healed:-
A gentle weapon which the Prince has plied
Since first a spear was thrust into his side.

As we behold the resurrection gift,
time's worth is measured and its shadows lift.
Each life, a laden vessel, slips away
To the glad island of unending day!

Donors: Mr. and Mrs. David Sleight, Mr. and Mrs. John Sleight, Miss Katherine Sleight, in fond remembrance of Roger Barentsen Sleight. Dedicated on Children's Day, June 8, 1952.

Sunday, April 20, 2008

April 20, 2008 Historical Moment

Did you know.... On March 18, 1766, "a meeting was held at New Hakkensak of the Kerkraad" in which the following resolves were made: that the steeple shall be set on one end of the Church and that the measure of the Church shall be of 20 by 25 feet.

April 20, 2008 Remembrance

Seveny Young Spreading yews in a Churchyard Roadfront Hedge.

Quaint, faithful pickets, spent and gray,
Are laid in memory away;
While, fresh in vigil o'er the scene,
Low spreading yews stand ever green.
This verdant border, trim and straight
In lieu of outworn fence and gate,
Rules nothing out save willful sin,
And only God's good will within.
Yet inward here the people throng
To find surcease from strife and wrong,
And with them as they out go
The peace and power of God o'erflow.
Some wistful wind may whisper through some bending,
Swaying little yew a special.
Sweet memorial song to
Someone in the passing throng.

Sunday, April 13, 2008

Rev. Michael Ploeger Reflection

Note: Rev. Michael Ploeger delivered the message on April 13, 2008.

Mike, a farm boy from Iowa, served as NHRC's Youth and Family Minister from 1998 to 2001. One of his favorite memories of that time was helping to create the youth room from the former chapel so the teens would have a space of their own. Currently serving Creek Road Community Church in Delavan, Wisconsin, Mike has also served churches in Iowa. He has been married to his wife, Fay, for eighteen years, and they have three boys: Nathan, 17; Josiah, 15; and Simeon, 11. mike's hobbies include sports, reading and gardening.

April 13, 2008 Historic Moment

Did you know.... The original contract for the building of our Church stated "When anyone happens to die or sells his seat or seats, it shall be the duty of the Church-masters to notify the purchasers or the heirs to have those seats transferred and three shillings shall be paid.

April 13, 2008 Remembrance

Eight Tables of Fir and Steel - For special use of Church School classes and the general use of all. Donors: The Sunday School. Dedicated November 21, 1954. Seven Folding Chairs of Steel and Masonite - Added to those already in the chapel that all who come may sit in comfort for study, work or sociability or worshipful assembly. donors: Pack 25 of Cub Scouts, Red Oaks Mill, one chair included through the kindness of Cub Parent Harry Jones.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

April 6, 2008 Reflection

From Rev. Richard L. Brihn (April 6, 2008)

At my first meeting with the Consistory, I told them that one of the responsibilities of an interim pastor was to share with the Consistory observations, ideas, suggestions and changes (many of which would not be received gladly) that would improve and enhance the life, mission and ministry of NHRC. Much to my delight, (and surprise) the Consistory, as a whole and as individuals graciously and attentively listened to my thoughts, and shared my observations and suggestions with their council or committee.

Was everything acted upon? Of course not. However, what pleased me most was their gracious sharing with me the reason(s) for not doing so.

What fonder remembrance could and interim have? One thing, - sitting on the floor Sunday mornings and talking with the Kids in the Kingdom.

April 6, 2008 Historic Moment

Did you know.... The original contract for the building of our church dated "the 31st of October 1700 and sixty five" stated that "we, the undersigned, each one according to the money which he subscribes, shall be entitled to sittings in the church."

April 6, 2008 Remembrance

Handrails for the church porch....

Lest any falter or fall or fear,
Ascending unto the door of God,
These rails are fashioned and fastened here
Where many a sinner and saint has trod.

God pardon the sins of the saints who mount,
And waken all good in each wayward soul:
For our blessings are measured but as we count
The ailing lives that are here made whole.

Dedicated November 21, 1954. Donor of materials, Joseph R. Koury. Donor of time and craftsmanship, Verner Bodeen.