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!!!

 

A NOTE OF THANKS is extended to all who attended and participated in the Fall Meeting of the Regional Synod of New York on October 24^th.  Lots of work was done and the fellowship was splendid.

            Congratulations to Rev. Dwayne Jackson on his election to the position of 2^nd Vice-President.  He is a welcome addition to the Executive Committee that is committed to work diligently.  Dwayne is pastor of First Reformed Church, Astoria, Queens.

                                                                                                                 

           

Summer & After School Grant Applications are available through the Synod Office.  They have been mailed to those churches that participated in the past or requested them. Grants MUST BE APPROVED BY CLASSIS and returned to the Synod Office by March 1, 2010.

If you need Grant Applications or have questions, please contact the Synod Office at 914-332-1311 or RSynod@aol.com.

 

SUMMER 2009…more that 6800 children registered, and 937 adults participated, in VBS evening programs within our 43 grant sponsored church programs.  Interestingly, out of the total number of children registered, about 73% are members and related to the RCA.  Ninety percent of the participating directors and pastors tell us that the children who come to our VBS programs have a great depth of appreciation for our biblical instruction and foundation.  Prayerfully these children and their families will continue to fellowship and come to learn more about their faith during the year.  Ninety-eight percent of our churches in the Regional Synod of New York sponsored VBS and/or other summer Christian learning activities for children.

            The children (ages 2 – 18) and the various staff persons were diverse and were encouraged to engage in spiritual values and the enrichment of their various cultural applications throughout our VBS programs.

            Thank you to the Rev. Dr. Micheal Edwards for his work as Director of the Summer Programs…

During 2009, the RSNY approved AFTER SCHOOL grants for 12 churches and the Rural & Migrant Ministry Youth Programs.  Many churches incorporate Sunday worship as an extension of their ministry and programs. All our After School programs emphasize high moral standards, Christian values and ways for youth to make positive decisions that assist them in their daily lives.

            Thank you to Elder Shirley Smith for her work as Director of the After School Programs…

 

ANNOUNCING 2010 WINTER YOUTH PROGRAMS at THE WARWICK CENTER

February 5 – 7                              Confirmation Retreat

February 19 – 21                        Elementary Aged Youth Rally

March 5 – 7                                    Jr. High Youth Rally (Grades 6-8)

March 19 – 21                              Sr. High Youth Rally (Grades 9 –12)

April 23 – 25                                  Jr. & Sr. High Youth Rally (Grades 6-12)

 

February 26 – 28                        Camp Snowball I

April 9 – 11                                     Camp Snowball II

For registration information call 845-986-1164 or e-mail - campwarwick@campwarwick.org

 

UP-COMING EDUCATION EVENTS…MARK YOUR CALENDARS and PLAN TO ATTEND… 

            AWAKE MY SOUL…The 2010 Annual Association of Presbyterian Church Educators conference will be held in Nashville, Tennessee January 27 – 30. 

            The Rev. Michael Lindvall, pastor of Brick Presbyterian Church, NYC will be the keynote speaker focusing on the questions posed by lyrical Psalm 108.  The Rev. Carla Pratt Keyes, pastor of Ginter Park Presbyterian Church, Richmond, VA will be the worship leader; and John Semingson, Director of Music Ministries for Westminster Presbyterian Church, Nashville, will be the music leader.  There are over 130 workshops, a Marketplace to browse and review resources, the Spirituality Center, great fellowship and a musical welcome with Amy Grant!              

            January 26 and 27, the Presbyterian Youth Symposium with Mark deVries, nationally recognized speaker and author of Sustainable Youth Ministry and Family Based Youth Ministry, will be part of the APCE event.  Go to www.apcenet.org to find registration information and details.

            WHAT DOES THE LORD REQUIRE OF YOU? The NEACE event sponsored by the Northeast Association of Christian Educators & Regional Synod of New York Educators will take place at The Warwick Center Wednesday, April 21 thru Friday, April 23, 2010.  This conference is for those interested in learning more about Social Justice Education – Educators, Pastors and Laity. 

            The keynote speaker will be the Rev. Dr. Clifton Kirkpatrick, President, World Alliance of Reformed Churches.  Resources for participants in this conference will be The Belhar Confession and The Accra Confession.  Music will be offered by The New Hope Reformed Church, Yonkers; and participants will have the opportunity to visit the United Presbyterian Church of Middletown, home of the Youth Arts Group (YAG), a program of Rural & Migrant Ministry that creates Art for Social Change.  More details and registration information will be available early in 2010.

            LEADERSHIP IN THE SMALL CONGREGATION…Summer Collegium, a project in support of small congregations at Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, Virginia, for clergy and their spouses or partners from 25 small churches of all Christian denominations.  The keynote speaker will be Alice Mann, a prolific writer on congregational ministry, and John Bell from the Iona Community in Scotland.  The dates are June 23-July 1, 2010.  Applications are on www.vts.edu/education/collegium or by calling 703-461-1760.  Applications must be postmarked by December 15, 2009 to be considered.

DESTINY…A Gathering for Rural Women and Their Allies, sponsored by Rural & Migrant Ministry and Daughters of Sarah, a rural women’s support group, will take place December 4 & 5, 2009, Holiday Inn, Binghamton, NY.  Women of Faith, Agencies and Organizations and Students gather to learn and grow.  Keynote speakers: Millie Johnson, Executive Director of a community development corporation (Govans Economic Management Senate), a nonprofit that manages the economic health and social welfare development of underserved communities in Baltimore City and a Roja Singh, President of the Dalit Solidarity Forum in the USA, an organization that raises support for the education of the Dalit people of South Indai, who are known as untouchables.  For more information, call Ruth Faircloth, 845-485-8627, at Rural & Migrant Ministry.

 

ABOUT THE SYNOD…

• Glendale Reformed Church, Queens, announces a new TV outreach ministry with the first shooting scheduled for Saturday, November 21^st.  Pray that the Lord will bless this new ministry.  Rev. Chris Theodore is the pastor.
• First Reformed Church of College Point, Queens, will be rededicating their sanctuary after the fire of June 2008, on Sunday, November 22^nd at 10:30 a.m.  Rev. Linda B. Gold is the church’s pastor.
• The Rev. Dr. Elias Dantas has begun his pastoral duties at the Clarkstown Reformed Church, West Nyack.  Dr. Dantas is a native of Brazil and is the Director of the Doctor of Ministry program at Alliance Seminary in Upper Nyack.
• On Wednesday, November 25^th, The Soup Angels, partnering with First Reformed Church, Nyack, will host its 4^th Annual Come to the Table Thanksgiving Feast at the church.  They expect to feed 150 persons and distribute 1200 take out meals. 
• The Rev. Dr. Norman Kansfield was received as a member of Rockland/Westchester Classis on October 20, 2009. 

 

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.org.  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!!!

 

REGIONAL SYNOD FALL MEETING…SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24^th…

            The RSNY Fall Meeting will be a business meeting, therefore, all delegates to Synod committees and executive committee members are expected to attend.  The meeting will be held at The Reformed Church of the Tarrytowns.  Carpooling or mass transit is STRONGLY suggested.  The meeting begins at 9:00 a.m. and will conclude following the 2:00 p.m. worship service.

 

IMPORTANT REMINDERS…

·         Summer & After School Grant Applications are available through the Synod Office.  They have been mailed to those churches that participated in the past or requested them. Grants MUST BE APPROVED BY CLASSIS and returned to the Synod Office by March 1, 2010.

·         All PD&R Grant Applications MUST be returned to the Synod Office – APPROVED BY CLASSIS – immediately following classis meetings in October.

If you need Grant Applications or have questions, please contact the Synod Office at 914-332-1311 or RSynod@aol.com.

 

 

UP-COMING DATES TO NOTE AT THE WARWICK CENTER

ELDERHOSTELS:

November 1-6, 2009                  Historic tall steeples on the Hudson River, The masterful pipe organ and hymnody (West Point’s Cadet Chapel organ), and Ringing handbells and chimes

November 8 – 13                         Introduction to Dimensional Embroidery

November 27 – December 2 (Friday – Wednesday)

December 8  - 13 (Tuesday – Sunday) and December 14 – 19 (Monday – Saturday)

                                                                Enjoy Christmas in New York City and at Country Mansions along the Hudson River

To register or to learn more about these programs, please call ELDER HOSTEL PARTICIPANT

SERVICES toll free (877) 426-8056, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. or visit www.elderhostel.org

 

ANNOUNCING 2010 WINTER YOUTH PROGRAMS

February 5 – 7                              Confirmation Retreat

February 19 – 21                        Elementary Aged Youth Rally

March 5 – 7                                    Jr. High Youth Rally (Grades 6-8)

March 19 – 21                              Sr. High Youth Rally (Grades 9 –12)

April 23 – 25                                  Jr. & Sr. High Youth Rally (Grades 6-12)

 

February 26 – 28                        Camp Snowball I

April 9 – 11                                     Camp Snowball II

For registration information call 845-986-1164 or e-mail - campwarwick@campwarwick.org

 

ANNOUNCING…FREEDOM IN MINISTRY, JANUARY 8-10, 2010

Thirty years ago, Freedom in Ministry began as a week-end for clergy and spouses to get away

after the hectic Christmas season. But to get away, one must go somewhere…to provide a

beautiful place to offer rest for the weary, food for the soul, and friendship for the parish

clergy and their spouses.

    Registration is due no later than November 15^th.  Questions? contact Ellen Ratmeyer at

eratmeyer@rca.org

 

CONGRATULATIONS to the WOODBOURNE REFORMED CHURCH…

            This summer, the Woodbourne Reformed Church as a part of the Woodbourne Action Committee created an area of Woodbourne history museum in the old one room schoolhouse that is the church’s parish hall.  History of the church was a prominent feature, but the rich history of the area going back over 200 years is featured, as well as other churches in the area, the synagogue, the firemen, the prison, and the history of the Neversink River and fly fishing.  Fly fishing was invented in Woodbourne! …One of the church’s bread program recipients, Doug Hauser, has become a museum volunteer – Praise God!

            For this project, the church was awarded the Historic Preservation Award.  The Sullivan Renaissance judges commented, The new museum at the Woodbourne Reformed Church has had a significant social impact on the community.  The museum has become a gathering area, and the displays are informative, relevant and catch a visitor’s focus.  Having the church members present, also giving free bread in the bread program as well as clothes for the needy is a commendable and impressive effort.  Please keep this alive.

Rev. Barbara Claypool serves as contract Minister of the Woodbourne Church.

 

ABOUT THE SYNOD…

·         October is Pastor Appreciation Month…Plan to celebrate your pastor both corporately and personally.

·         The West End Collegiate Church held A Service of Remembrance commemorating the historic connections between The Collegiate Church, The Kingdom of the Netherlands, and The House of Orange and celebrating 400 years of Dutch-American Friendship on September 11^th.  Music was offered by the Marine Band of the Royal Netherlands Navy.  Participants in the service were Rev. Dr. Daniel Meeter, Old First Reformed Church, Brooklyn; Danielle Kisluk-Grosheide, member of West End Collegiate Church and Rev. Bart G.P. Van Dirk, Fleet Chaplain of the Royal Netherlands Navy;

Rev. Dr. Edwin Mulder, General Secretary Emeritus, RCA; Rev. Charles D. Morris, President of the Collegiate Corporation and pastor of Fort Washington Collegiate Church, NYC.

•  A farewell luncheon was held by the Classis of Nassau-Suffolk on September 14^th, to honor Rev. Stuart  Clark, retiring pastor from the Community Church of Manhasset and his wife, Mary, on her leaving the office of Women’s Ministries.  Our thanks and best wishes to Stu and Mary for all their work and the friendships shared so lovingly among us over the years! 
• Congratulations to Joseph (father) and Shirley (daughter) on their ordination at Bowne Street Reformed Church, Queens on Saturday, September 12^th.
• Queens Classis hosted A Rainbow Festival at ShinKwang Church on September 19^th.  More than 400 participants from many churches gathered to celebrate racial harmony through praise music.
• Old First Reformed Church opened its heart and its doors to the Congregation Jeh Elohim on September 27^th and 28^th for the observance of Yom Kippur after the synagogue roof collapsed.  More than 1000 worshippers filled the church. 
• The Rev. Winston M. Clarke, having served the First Reformed Church of Mt. Vernon for 24 years, retired on September 27^th.  He and his wife Nancy, who had served as V-P of Consistory and as a faithful participant in the congregation’s life and ministry will continue to reside in Jersey City, NJ.

      Rev. Alfred Gordon will serve as pastor while the congregation searches for a new pastor.

• The Classis of Rockland/Westchester received and installed The Rev. Dr. Edward Schreur, as pastor and teacher of the Greenville Community Reformed Church, Scarsdale, on October 4^th.
• The Classis of Queens installed Rev. William Hanousek as Minister of Word and Sacrament at the Queensboro Hill Community Church of Flushing on October 11^th.
• The Rev. Jeff Gargano will be installed as pastor and teacher of The Reformed Church of the Tarrytowns on Sunday, November 1^st.
• The Reformed Church of Cortlandtown in Montrose, will bid their pastor, Rev. Douglas Leonard, farewell on Sunday, October 18^th.   Doug will leave on the 20^th for Oman.  He will return in November to begin speaking in supporting churches.  He has accepted a call to serve as the Director of the Al Amana Center in Muscat Oman beginning in late January.
• Congratulations to ‘Mother’ Eva Jolly, New Brooklyn Reformed Church, on her 99^th Birthday!

       

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.org.  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!!!

 

FROM THE RSNY PRESIDENT…The General Synod meeting in June was definitely one that was blessed with God’s presence.  As we all continue to work toward the goals of Our Call, we must remain mindful that we are not yet there, but continue to move ever closer.  General Synod addressed many issues sensitive to all.  As the Regional Synod of New York continues to strive in its efforts to reach EVERY church within its bounds, let’s acknowledge and pray that The race is not given to the swift, nor the strong, but to those who endure to the end.  Our work is before us. We will conduct our Synod Executive Committee and Committee Meetings knowing that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is present with us!

            The Peace of the Lord be with you all throughout the days to come.   - Wilbur Jones

 

A MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL SYNOD PRESIDENT…All pastors and leaders are encouraged to make sure that ALL our members have an opportunity to read, reflect on, and discuss the Belhar Confession.  The General Synod 2009 voted to adopt the Belhar Confession as a fourth standard of unity for the Reformed Church in America.  If ratified by two-thirds of our classes, the Belhar Confession will take its place alongside the Belgic Confession, the Canons of Dort and the Heidelberg Catechism.  This vote is important because our confessions reflect who we are and what we believe.  Questions??? Contact Earl James (ejames@rca.org or 616-916-8077) or Doug Fromm (dfromm@rca.org or 212-870-3247).  More resources for study and reflection can be found on The Belhar Study Center on the RCA website at www.rca.org/belhar.  - James L. Seawood

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR LEARNING…

-          The Castle, an off-Broadway play, will be presented on Sunday, September 27^th at The Reformed Church of Bronxville, 4:30 p.m.  This hour long eye-opening production shares the challenges ex-offenders face once their debt to society is paid and the time has come to reintegrate into a now unfamiliar world.  The Castle kicks off the church’s Coming Home initiative, a mentoring program for recently released offenders who have earned college degrees.  The cast – three men and one woman – tell their life stories from childhood, crime, prison and homelessness to the joy of becoming tax payers.  Tickets are available at www.reformedchurch.org or by contacting Louanne, 914-337-6776, Ext. 153.

-          Historical Records and Archives Workshop sponsored by the Church Life Committee of the Classis of Mid-Hudson will be held on Saturday, October 3^rd at Old Dutch Church, Kingston, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  Rev. Russell Gasero, Archivist for the RCA, will lead participants through the The 5 W’s of Archives: A Journalistic Approach.  Registration fee is due by September 21^st: $10.00/ RCA church or $10.00/person for all other churches or individuals. Make checks payable to: Classis of Mid-Hudson and mail to: Rev. Arlene R. Wilhelm, 25 Henry W. DuBois Drive, Apt. 30, New Paltz, NY 12561.  Questions?? Contact Arlene, 845-255-8870.

-          Is your church in need of Children & Worship training this fall?  The Woodstock Reformed Church (Mid-Hudson) needs at least 5/6 more participants to join them in the coming month or two.  Please call Rev. Josh Bode (518-860-9888) if you are interested in teaming up with the Woodstock learners.

 

IMPORTANT REMINDERS…

·         Summer & After School Grant Applications are available through the Synod Office.  They have been mailed to those churches that participated in the past or requested them.

·         All PD&R Grant Applications MUST be returned to the Synod Office – APPROVED BY CLASSIS – immediately following classis meetings in October.

If you need Grant Applications or have questions, please contact the Synod Office at 914-332-1311 or RSynod@aol.com.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOW…The Regional Synod of New York’s Fall Meeting on Saturday, October 24^th will be a business meeting.  Therefore, all delegates to Synod committees and executive committee member are expected to attend.  The meeting will be held at the Reformed Church of the Tarrytowns and carpooling or mass transit is STRONGLY suggested.  Further information will be mailed later in September.

 

UP-COMING DATES TO NOTE AT THE WARWICK CENTER

ELDERHOSTELS:

October 18 – 23                                         America’s Landscape Painters: the Hudson River School; Move to the Sound of the Big Bands, The Rockefeller Dynasty

October 25 – 30                                         Wine, Wineries and The Culinary Institute of America; Autumn Secrets and Spectacles, The World of Classical Music

LEISURE STUDY PROGRAMS:

October 11 – 16                                         Prime Time Fellowship/Autumn Adventure: The Bible’s Most Extraordinary Cast of Characters, Kern and Arlen – Their Songs Live On!

2009 WARWICK OPEN HOUSE…MONDAY, OCTOBER 12TH & TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13TH            

The Warwick Center will wrap up its year-long 50^th Anniversary Celebration. The Rev. Kathleen Edwards-Chase, Senior Pastor of  First Reformed Church of Pompton Plains will deliver the message: Appreciating What Is: No Excuse Living.  The music director will be Lorraine Nelson Wolf, award winning composer, singer and pianist.

For additional information, call 845-986-1164 or e-mail programs@warwickcenter.com

        

ABOUT THE SYNOD…

• Rev. Jennifer Bendelius was ordained as Minister of Word and Sacrament on July 26^th at the Woodstock Reformed Church. There will be a special ‘Commissioning’ at the Flatbush Reformed Church, Saugerties (Mid-Hudson) on Sunday, September 20^th, 4:00 p.m.
• Rev. Tiffany Houck-Loomis will be ordained as Minister of Word and Sacrament at the Fort Washington Reformed Church, September 27^th at 3:00 p.m.  (New York)
• Rev. Adrian Thorne will be ordained as Minister of Word and Sacrament on Sunday, October 11^th.  Time and place TBD
• Rev. William Hanousek will be installed as pastor of the Community Church of Queensboro Hill (Queens) on Sunday, October 11^th at 4:00 p.m.
• Rev. Jeffrey Gargano has accepted the Call to the Reformed Church of the Tarrytowns (Rockland/Westchester) and will be installed at a time and date TBD
• Rev. Ed Schreur has accepted the Call to the Greenville Community Church, Scarsdale (Rockland/Westchester) and will be installed on aSunday in October  - exact time and date TBD.
• Claryville Reformed Church (Orange) will celebrate its 160^th Anniversary on Sunday, October 18^th  with as special service of worship at 10:00 a.m.!  Rev. Paul Nulton serves as M/C to this church family.
• The Reformed Church of Huguenot Park will celebrate their 160^th Anniversary on September 13^th.

 

YOU ARE INVITED on Sunday, September 13, 2009, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. to the Dedication and Grand Opening of the Workplace Education Center of Sullivan County at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Monticello.  The Center, through educational programs that link and benefit both workers and businesses, is working to improve living standards in Sullivan County.  This Center is a unique partnership of seven organizations: The Kairos Project, New York State Labor-Religion Coalition, Rural & Migrant Ministry, St. John’s Episcopal Church, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, United Food and Commercial Worker’s Union 342 and the Worker’s Rights Law Center.  For more information, contact Rev. Dr. David Montanye at 845-485-8627 or davidmontanye@yahoo.com.

From Your New Synod President... I have been extremely busy fielding phone calls and e-mails from colleagues and constituents attending General Synod in Holland, MI.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank our past president, Elder Mary Linge, for her leadership and bold effort to question anything that represented or appeared to be “business as usual.”  As we know, her questions became our forum to develop and implement the Year of Listening as we attempted to hear our own heartbeats throughout the region.  Though we will miss Mary dearly, we know that there are other forums and boardrooms that eagerly await her participation. 

            As a prelude to General Synod, Jon Norton and I conducted a Pre-Synod Meeting on May 30^th at the Synod Office for fourteen voting delegates.  Participants were given an overview of what to expect and how to participate as new/former delegates at this year’s most exciting to date General Synod!  The delegates expressed their eagerness to arrive there knowing that they were well-versed and informed on the many issues and overtures that would be brought before them.  I implored them to remember the Scripture – Luke 10:21-24 –

respectfully, Blessed are the eyes which see what you see!  For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.  These are encouraging words that I believed would help the delegates as they journeyed through their days at GS.

            In closing, I am still digesting the scope of work yet to be done.  However, with the assistance of our current Executive Committee and Staff, I will continue reviewing past policies and goals, while looking forward to discussing new ideas and goals for the Regional Synod of New York. 

 

May the Peace of the Lord be with you,

Wilbur Jones

 

The Camp Warwick Staff Alumni Reunion is scheduled for June 19-21, 2009.  All registration information for the event can be found at www.campwarwick.com.

Camp Warwick still has space for campers!  There are scholarships available to help cover the cost of tuition. Visit www.campwarwick.com for more information about the dates and costs.  If you know someone that has never been to camp, please encourage them to set up a tour with us! 

            3 for free! Just find 3 friends who have never been to summer camp at Camp Warwick.  Have them put YOUR name on their registration form in the space marked 3 For Free Friend and send it in.  It’s that easy.  Once you have all been to camp, we will send you a refund for 100% of the cost of your week of camp.

 

RURAL & MIGRANT MINISTRY CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF OVERNIGHT CAMP…Are you looking for a great VBS Mission Project or perhaps a summer Congregational Special Mission Emphasis?  Some items needed for approximately 100 campers and 40 staff – Medium size beach towels (1 for each camper); Water Bottles (Does anyone know of a bank or Dr,’s office that uses these for advertising that might donate some?;

T-Shirts @ $6.50 each (You collect the funds, we will have them printed).

            Counselors are desperately needed…are there some young adults (must be at least 18 years of age) or adults in your congregation that would volunteer for the week of August 23 – 29 at Camp Kutz in Warwick?

For more information, please call us at                845-485-8627         or contact Jane Konitz,                845-297-5864        .

UP-COMING PROGRAMS AT THE WARWICK CENTER

  ELDERHOSTEL:

 July 12 – 17                  Global Warming and Nature’s Fury, The Long Road to Iraq and Afghanistan

                                    1959 – The Best on Broadway, In Hollywood and in Popular Song

  July 19 – 24 Global Warming and Nature’s Fury, The Roosevelts: Teddy, Franklin & Eleanor

                                                And the Music and Emotions of World War II

  July 26 – 31                 discover Everything Dutch in the Hudson Valley from 1609-2009

  August 16  -- 21           The British Monarchy, the Unabashed Brilliance of Leonard Bernstein, Grounds for Sculpture

  August 23 -- 28           The Rockefeller Dynasty, the History of West Point and Move to the Sound of the Big Bands

  LEISURE STUDY:

  June 7 – 12                   Prime Time Fellowship Spring Fling: Learning the Stories of Scripture through Stained Glass Windows and The Masterful Pipe Organ and Hymnody

  August 9 – 14             Revisit Woodstock, The Long Road to Iraq and Afghanistan, Introduction to Basic Bridge

For additional site and program information, contact Arlene Tenckinck at                845-...        or e-mail programs@warwickcenter.com

                                                                 

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED…

            Cuddybackville from Tuesday, August 23rd through Friday, September 18^th…There is much painting to do.  Paul Nulton will be replacing the steeple roof using a 90’ man lift.  He needs one person used to working at heights to assist him in the cage.  A safety harness must be worn by law.  The ancient cedar shakes installed when the church was constructed must be removed and replaced with plywood, and then shingled.  This work will be done from the man lift.  Other volunteers are needed to paint the fellowship hall and church, with some shingling on low roofs.

            For more information, contact Paul Nulton, RSNY Volunteer Coordinator, at                845-598-1407         (Cell) or

               845-986-2052         (Office) or e-mail: pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org

 

THE SCHOOL for CHRISTIAN LIVING AND SERVING, a ministry of the Classes of Mid-Hudson and Orange bids a fond farewell to Board President and Preaching Elder Michael Sweeney.  Michael has been a faithful servant with vision and passion for the school. We wish him well as he devotes his time to attending classes at New Brunswick Seminary.

  The new Board President is longtime Christian Educator, Jane Konitz.  Preaching Elder Janice Melichar-Utter will take over Jane’s former role as Curriculum Chair for the School.  Congratulations ladies!

Eighty-one course certificates were presented at the spring celebration of worship on Thursday, June 11^th.  Twelve courses, including two all day workshops on the Belhar Confession, were offered during this program year.

 

 ABOUT THE SYNOD…

• On Thursday, June 18^th, retired clergy and their spouses of the Regional Synod of New York are invited to luncheon in the Port Ewen Room of Mulder Chapel at The Warwick Center.  The luncheon will begin at 11:30 a.m. and will include time for old friends to “catch up” with one another and a presentation by Rev. Dr. Al Janssen who will speak on Affinity Classes and the Reformed Faith.  Contact the Synod Office,                914-332-1311         or Rsynod@aol.com for reservations.
• Congratulations to New Brunswick Seminary graduates:  Ock Kee Byun of Flushing (Cum Laude)  Ock is the wife of Thomas Hung Yong Song, Synod Area Minister, Classes of Queens and Nassau/Suffolk;

Tiffany Houck-Loomis, Classis of New York, and James Steward II.  James was the RSNY Youth Delegate to the 2008 General Synod.

• Jennifer Bedelius, Woodstock Ref. Church, will be ordained on July 26^th.  She has begun her ministry at the Flatbush Reformed Church, Saugerties, Classis of Mid-Hudson.

• The Rev. Douglas Leonard will be spending this summer in the country of Jordan working on interfaith reconciliation and learning Arabic.  His blog is called Interfaith Reconciliation and can be reached through http://interfaithreconciliation.blogspot.com.  Doug pastors the Reformed Church of Cortlandtown, Montrose, NY, Classis of Rockland/Westchester.

The 2009 Annual Meeting of the Regional Synod of New York was a time for corporate self-reflection and re-examination.  The meeting was well attended and delegates spoke with heartfelt concern for the future of the Synod’s mission.

            It was agreed that the task was a good one, but more time was needed for further thought and planning in order to define a well thought out action plan for future ministries.  It was acknowledged that the Synod has been a leader among Synods within the Reformed Church in America.  As times change and the challenges of our world, such as economic downturns, the reconfigurations of racism, sexism and classism reappear, the disappearance of youth from our churches, all cry out for the church to adapt itself to meet these calls for help.

            The Synod meeting was inspired by its belief that the Lord Jesus calls us beyond these challenging problems.  It committed itself to the changes necessary in order to make Christ known in the world of peoples that it serves.

 

WELCOME NEW SYNOD LEADERS…

            President – Wilbur Jones is an Elder at Mott Haven Reformed Church in the Bronx, Classis of New York.  He also serves his church as a member of the choir.  Mr. Jones serves the RCA as President of the African American Caucus.  He has served as an Officer of the RSNY for the past four years.  He is a Civilian Manager for the New York City Police Department.  A father of four, and also a grandfather of four, Mr. Jones lives in Jamaica, NY.

            1^st Vice-President – Toni L. Macon is the Pastor of Wallkill Reformed Church, Classis of Orange.  She also serves as RSNY’s delegate to General Synod Council.  Rev. Macon served as director of the Seminarian

Seminar at General Synod from 1993-2006, past moderator of the Congregational Services Committee and is the RCA’s educator on Sexual Ethics and Boundaries.  Ms. Macon has served as an Officer of the RSNY for two years. She lives in Wallkill with her husband, Rev. Gary DeWitt, a Pastor in the Regional Synod of Albany.

            2^nd Vice-President - TBA

The Warwick Center and Camp Warwick’s 50^th Anniversary Banquet

was an opportunity to give thanks to God for a half century of Christian hospitality and summer camp ministry.  The banquet was attended by 397 Friends of The Warwick Center and Camp Warwick from the Regional Synods of New York and Mid-Atlantics.  Thirty individuals were nominated and honored for their continuing contributions to this ministry.  In addition, Grove Reformed Church, North Bergen, NJ and the Reformed Church of Port Ewen, NY were honored for their significant financial contributions toward Mulder Chapel.

            Former Executive Directors, Rev. Ronald Lockhorst, Rev. William Faulkner and Arlene Waldorf shared highlights of their years of service.  The Rev. Peter Paulsen, for Executive Minister of the Regional Synod of Mid-Atlantics was the emcee and the Rev. Dr. Edwin Mulder, former General Secretary of the RCA, gave the invocation.  This 50^th celebration provided an opportunity to recognize the contribution of the late Mr. Gerow Schoonmaker, who had served as an elder at the New Hurley Reformed Church, Wallkill, NY and was instrumental in the purchase of the conference center in 1959.  The family of the late Mr. Gerow was present for the unveiling of the new sign that will greet conference center guests to Schoonmaker Lodge.

The Camp Warwick Staff Alumni Reunion is scheduled for June 19-21, 2009.  This is an opportunity to share, laugh and reconnect with fellow counselors from your time at Warwick.  All registration information for the event can be found at www.campwarwick.com.

Camp Warwick still has space for campers!  There are scholarships available to help cover the cost of tuition. Visit www.campwarwick.com for more information about the dates and costs.  If you know someone that has never been to camp, please encourage them to set up a tour with us! 

            3 for free! Just find 3 friends who have never been to summer camp at Camp Warwick.  Have them put YOUR name on their registration form in the space marked 3 For Free Friend and send it in.  It’s that easy.  Once you have all been to camp, we will send you a refund for 100% of the cost of your week of camp.

 

The National Day of Prayer was observed at Brighton Heights Reformed Church on Thursday, May 7^th.  Nearly 100 people of all faiths came to pray for the nation.  This year’s theme based on Psalm 33:22 was Prayer…America’s Hope.  Participants included The Staten Island Council of Churches and representatives from other faith traditions – Jewish, Muslim, Hindu and Buddhist.  Many public officials attended and participated, the Commander of the 120^th Precinct arrived with 30 police officers, and the Borough President presented a citation recognizing the ongoing efforts of the Church to encourage prayer in the community and proclaimed May 7^th a Day of Prayer on Staten Island.  The closing prayer was offered by the Chairman of the Alternative Education Committee of the United Nations.

            The Brighton Heights Reformed Church, 320 Saint Marks Place, Staten Island is open for prayer Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

    

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY…

            The Greenville Community Reformed Church of Scarsdale is sending their youth to help the Claryville Reformed Church prepare and plant the community garden the last week-end in May.  They will stay overnight and attend church and then will enjoy a hike on one of the great trails in the area with an experienced guide.

            Youth teams are needed during July/August to help the Claryville Church maintain the garden, gather produce, clean and package it for the unemployed and poor in the area.

            The Claryville Church needs a youth or adult team during the summer to help the church members and community folk to paint the one room schoolhouse next to the fellowship hall.  The schoolhouse was given to the church by the community to be developed as a museum.  For more information and/or to volunteer, contact Paul Nulton, 845-598-1407.

 

RURAL & MIGRANT MINISTRY CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF SUMMER CAMP…RMM kicks off its celebration with a Walk-A-Thon on Saturday, June 6^th.  Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. at St. James Episcopal Church, Hyde Park, NY followed by a 10:00 a.m. walk at the Vanderbilt Loop and a barbeque lunch provided by the Community Service Fellowship of the Culinary Institute of America.  For Registration, Lunch Tickets and/or Donation Information contact Laura or Jane (845-485-8627) or visit www.ruralmigrantministry.org.

 

ABOUT THE SYNOD…

·         Pastor Tom Danney celebrated 20 years as pastor of the First Reformed Church, Nyack, NY on April 19^th.  A reception following the service featured some verses set to popular music, a poem written for the occasion by church member, Harmon Williams, and excellent refreshments.

·         Rev. Sharon Atkins was recently installed as Associate Pastoral Minister of Word and Sacrament of Grace Reformed Church Mansion of God (Classis of Brooklyn).

·         The Women’s Ministry of the Eastern Region of the African American Council recently held a breakfast meeting followed by a health program entitled, Messages of Hope. More than 50 attendees were inspired and informed by the personal stories of women who are cancer survivors and technicians responsible for the treatment of cancer patients.

·         Old Dutch Church, Kingston, NY, will hold a festival anniversary service Sunday, May 31^st at 4:00 p.m. marking 350 years of commitment and service to God and the community.  The Rev. Kenneth Walsh is the pastor.

The Annual Meeting of the Regional Synod of New York

Saturday, May 9, 2009

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

at

The Warwick Center

Each Classis has four Elder and four Minister delegates. This is a very important meeting in the life of our classes and churches. Please contact your Classis Clerk to make sure your Classis will be fully represented.

FROM THE RSNY PRESIDENT…

This will be my last Second Wednesday serving as your President. It has been a privilege to serve in this role that God has called me to. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work closely with the other Officers of your Regional Synod – Elder Wilbur Jones, Rev. Toni Macon, Rev. Conrad Strauch, Deacon Susan Meaney and Elder Marien LoPreto, who is now enjoying a well deserved retirement. I have a deep respect and admiration for each of these Officers, and I will greatly miss being a part of this group. As I move on, I will make it a point to pray often for the RSNY Officers, it is my hope that you will do the same.

In His Service,

Mary Linge

THE WARWICK CENTER & CAMP WARWICK

GALA 50th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2009

5:00 – 8:30 P.M.

THE SHERATON CROSSROADS, MAHWAH, NJ

Reservations are necessary. Information is available at www.warwickcenter.com.

Long-time friend and former Synod of Mid-Atlantics Executive Minister, The Rev. Peter Paulsen, will be the evening’s master of ceremonies. Former directors - Arlene Waldorf, William Faulkner and Ronald Lokhorst - will be our special guests.

MIDDLE COLLEGIATE CHURCH will be holding a Leadership Conference entitled Worship on the Edge: Breaking Through to the Multicultural Future, April 25-28. This conference will focus on the great opportunity many clergy have to transform their congregations toward the multiracial, multicultural and antiracist future: worship! Go to www.middlechurch.org for further information and registration.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY…

April is painting month at The Warwick Center to spruce up its appearance for the 50^th Anniversary Celebrations. Please contact Paul Nulton, RSNY Volunteer Coordinator, 845-598-1407 (cell) or 845-986-2052 (office) or e-mail: pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org.

NEW MISSION VENTURE…

The Claryville Reformed Church, Claryville, NY has taken the lead to grow a vegetable garden to assist the unemployed and poor in the area. This area has high unemployment and many live on marginal incomes. The Grahamsville Methodist and Reformed Churches have partnered with this project as well as a nearby Free Methodist congregation.

A neighbor a hundred yards away has donated land for this project and a farmer in the Claryville Church who grows specialty beef is constructing raised beds and donating the fertilized soil. This should vastly increase the yields and make it much easier to care for the garden. The neighbor is also supplying water for this mission venture. If youth groups or church members would like to assist with this project, please contact Paul Nulton, RSNY Volunteer Coordinator, at The Warwick Center, 845-598-1407 (cell) or 845-986-2052 (office) e-mail:pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org

As the economic crisis deepens, more families are pushed into the margins, especially families with children. It is estimated that in Sullivan, Orange and Ulster counties there are over 1,200 homeless children! What can be more relevant than the church feeding the hungry in our own communities. What a witness for a community to see Christ’s disciples laboring in gardens to feed the poor and unemployed. Think of that impact without saying a word! Think of a number of not-yet Christians who may be willing to work alongside such a project when crisis stalks so close to home.

RURAL & MIGRANT MINISTRY CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF SUMMER CAMP…RMM kicks off its celebration with a Walk-A-Thon on Saturday, June 6^th. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. at St. James Episcopal Church, Hyde Park, NY followed by a 10:00 a.m. walk at the Vanderbilt Loop and a barbeque lunch provided by the Catholic Christian Fellowship of the Culinary Institute of America.

RMM’s Summer Camp, funded entirely through churches, private donors and foundations, began in 1989 for migrant and rural children, many of whom were either in summer school, working or migrating and would not have had such an opportunity. Day Camps in 3 communities in 5 rural counties, and a one-week Overnight Camp, welcome over 200 campers, ages 8-18, embracing diversity, with a population that is 40% Latino, 40% African-American and 20% European-American.

The whole camp takes a uniquely exciting trip annually to a place that the children would not otherwise experience, such as the beach, the Aquarium, or a water park. In recent years, they have gone to Lake Placid, to Ellis Island and to see a Broadway play.

In these challenging and urgent economic times RMM invites you all to help make this summer an unforgettable experience once again. For Registration, Lunch Tickets and/or Donation Information contact Laura at rmmllecour@optimum.net or Jane (845-485-8627 or www.ruralmigrantministry.org.

JUSTICE for FARMWORKERS… Farmworker Albany Day, Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Albany, you are invited to stand with farmworkers. Join us as we send a clear message that New York must extend respect and equality to farmworkers. THE TIME IS NOW!

See the lead editorial in the April 5, 2009 New York Times.

For more information contact Justice for Farmworkers Campaign at info@justiceforfarmworkers.org or check the website: http://justiceforfarmworkers.org/

ABOUT THE SYNOD…

• The Reverends Kenneth Kobza and Paul Rosa took part in a dinner theater event at a New Paltz synagogue, garnering accolades for their acting, energy and being all-round good sports to help out. This event was a fund raiser for the synagogue.

• The Reformed Church of Bronxville held an adult education session on April 5, Coping with the Economic Crisis as a Person and Community of Faith, led by Dr. Richard Shoup, Director, The Counseling Center, Bronxville. He is also the founder of the Vocare Group, which offers seminars on career transformation from a spiritual perspective. “Career Network” offers an opportunity for church members to acquire tools and resources to succeed in this challenging job market.

• Congratulations to Rev. Ken and Linda Walsh proud grandparents of Aiden Robert Smith, born to their daughter and husband on March 26, 2009

50^th ANNIVERSARY

of

THE WARWICK CENTER & CAMP WARWICK

Celebrate the Past…Vision the Future

1959 – 2009

 

For several years the Metropolitan Youth Conference Committee of the Synods of New York and New Jersey shared a summer camp facility with the Presbyterian Church.  Due to expanding usage, it was decided by the Synod of New York to search for its own retreat and camp facility.  On May 27, 1959, the Synod of New York dedicated the 456 acre, hilltop property and named it Warwick Estates.  By the end of 1962, joint ownership and operation of Warwick Estates was finalized by the Particular Synods of New York and New Jersey.

With the completion of a new pool in 1964 and the popularity of week-long, Christian summer camps, it was decided to construct a youth facility.  Camp Warwick was dedicated on April 26, 1986.  Collegiate Lodge additions were completed in June 1990 and the demolition and restoration of the interior of the West House began in the fall of 1991.  One of the dreams of the original Board of Directors was to build a chapel.  This dream was realized in the construction of Mulder Chapel, dedicated in November 2004.

Today, The Warwick Center hosts more than 10,000 guests and 1200 to 1400 children and young people at Camp Warwick’s summer camps.

 

GALA ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2009

5:00 – 8:30 P.M.

THE SHERATON CROSSROADS, MAHWAH, NJ

  Reservations are necessary.  Information is available at www.warwickcenter.com.

 

We are pleased that long-time friend and former Synod of Mid-Atlantics executive minister, The Rev. Peter Paulson, will be the evening’s master of ceremonies.  Former directors, Arlene Waldorf, William Faulkner and Ronald Lokhorst will be our special guests.  At this banquet we will recognize the Friends of Warwick that have been nominated by your congregation.

Camp Warwick Staff Alumni will gather at The Warwick Center and Camp Warwick on June 19-21 for a week-end of reconnecting, reminiscing and fellowship.  For more information, please call 845-986-1164 or

e-mail campwarwick@campwarwick.org.

 

SUMMER CAMP BROCHURES have been mailed to all churches.  If you have not received them or need more, please contact the camp office.  2009 Elderhostel and Leisure Study Brochures will be sent by the end of the month. 

 

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES…

-          April is painting and clean up month at The Warwick Center!  Many volunteers are needed to help prepare The Warwick Center for its 50^th Anniversary.  There is much indoor and outdoor painting to be done.  Priority is sprucing up the barn to have it look more presentable when folks drive in and out.  The columns and decorative wood that juts out on the East House also need painting. This will be a great opportunity for youth and/or adult teams and individuals any time.  Volunteers for the day are free; a donation is requested to help defray expenses.

If you wish to stay a night or a week, please contact Paul Nulton, RSNY Volunteer Coordinator, at The Warwick Center, 845-598-1407 (cell) or 845-986-2052 (office)  e-mail:pnulton@warwickconferencecenter.org

 

TOM DANNEY, Synod Area Minister, would like to hear from churches, elders and/or pastors of efforts underway to a) facilitate a networking group for the unemployed in your area, b) ecumenical and cooperative ramping up of meal programs and food banks, and c) advocacy efforts to protect bankrupt homeowners.  He would welcome hearing via e-mail (tdanney@optonline.net) if you have found effective ways to minister to people’s needs in hard (economic) times.

 

GOSPEL MUSIC CONCERT featuring Debbie and Bill Gulino, Saturday, March 21, 7:30 p.m. at the Gardiner Reformed Church (Mid-Hudson Classis)…This concert is a fundraiser to benefit The Hot Diggity Dog Christian Music Program, Gardiner’s new family music ministry.  The church is partnering with Debbie Gulino, children’s music specialist, to present week-day morning Christian music classes beginning in April.  The program seeks to teach young children about Christ through music, games and the support of a caring Christian Community.  For more information contact the church, 845-255-0190.

 

THE REFORMED CHURCH CENTER at New Brunswick Seminary invites you to a dinnertime lecture/discussion on Monday, March 23^rd, 5:00 – 6:20 p.m.  The Rev. James Hart Brumm will be sharing the fruits of his research into the history and theology of RCA worship practices – the role of the arts in Reformed worship.  Come and explore the ways our understanding of this subject continues to evolve.

 

SOME DAY YOU WILL BE ONE AND YOUR CHURCH WILL HAVE ONE!  It’s A CHURCH SUPERVISOR…Saturday, March 29^th, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the New Paltz Reformed Church.  The seminar will be led by Rev. Phyllis Palsma, Minister for Leadership and Development and Congregational Service, Synod of Albany.  Cost: $15.00/church for Mid-Hudson churches; $15.00/person for those outside the classis. For questions and reservations call: 845-331-2919.

 

BIBLE REVIEW, MUSIC and WORSHIP…Saturday, April 4^th, 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Greenville Reformed Church, Scarsdale.  The workshop will be led by Rev. Eltje Brunemeyer, Whitfield Coppin and Gloria Norton.  Questions? and Registration: Contact Muriel Rose, rosebudmcr@verizon.net.

 

ABOUT THE SYNOD…

-          Congratulations to Rev. John VandenOever on his 20^th Anniversary as Pastor of Piermont Reformed Church (Rockland/Westchester).  Celebrations were held on February 22^nd 2009.

-          Congratulations to Rev. Neil Margetson on his installation as Pastor at Sunnyside Reformed Church (Queens) on Februrary 22^nd; Rev. Michael Brown on his installation as pastor of Marble Collegiate Reformed Church (New York) on March 8^th;  and Rev. Thomas Goodhart on his installation as Pastor at Trinity Reformed Church (Queens) on March 15^th 2009.

-          Best Wishes to Rev. Kenneth Ruge who will be installed as Pastor of Bronxville Reformed Church on Sunday, March 29^th 2009 (Rockland/Westchester). 

-          Congratulations to Elder Erma Rolle, from New Lots Reformed Church, recently honored at New Utrecht Reformed Church (Brooklyn) for Women’s History Month.  

-          Good Friday (April 10^th) will be observed by clusters of Reformed churches and their neighboring congregations at Grace: noon – 3 p.m.; Flatbush: noon – 1:30 p.m. (Brooklyn) and Bethany: 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. (New York)