Sermon 9-30-2007

“One More Thing,” or “The Whole Thing?”
Romans 12:1-8

It’s not very often that one sermon changes a whole life, but this one did. Today we are imagining that it is the 50th anniversary of this sermon. On September 30, 1957, right here, though the sanctuary looked different, a newlywed couple John and Joan sat in the back. But even from the distance of space and time, both have remembered the sermon, and one’s life was changed. As the Rev. Bob Henniges preached a sermon on this text John and Joan leaned forward in their pews. Pastor Henninges declared:

The motivation for service is the mercies of God. God has so loved the world that he created it, and sent his only son to redeem it. God’s mercies are infinite! John nodded. So before our blessing count tops 1000 we offer our lives as a thank you note.

The memory of service is the Old Testament sacrifices. Rev. Henninges went on to describe in vivid detail how the ancient Hebrew priests would arrange the bull, or goat, or ram on the altar, ignite it as a sacrifice to become a pleasing aroma to God. Bob read a new translation of Romans 12:1, read it with me… Joan’s eyebrow raised at the thought.

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The Shepherd’s Kids and Young Adult News October 2007

Click to read the latest issue of North Branch Reformed Church’s monthly newsletter for children, teens and college students:
The Shepherd’s Kids and Young Adult News October 2007

Note: You need an Adobe PDF reader installed to read a PDF document. If you don’t have one installed, you can download a free PDF reader at www.adobe.com.

The Messenger October 2007

Click to read North Branch Reformed Church’s monthly newsletter:
The Messenger October 2007

Note: You need an Adobe PDF reader installed to read a PDF document. If you don’t have one installed, you can download a free PDF reader at www.adobe.com.

From the Pastor: Bold Changes

If you were in worship on Sunday, September 16, you may remember that I did my annual anniversary/vision sermon. In it I used the waterfall picture here displayed to talk about the blessings that God is constantly pouring into our lives. However, to take full advantage of God’s blessing we need to walk boldly into God’s waterfall to receive the blessings for ourselves and to let them flow out to all around us. I then went on to enumerate some bold changes, or moves, or experiments that I envision God calling us to. More about that at the end.

What I didn’t take time to say is how thankful I am for the bold visions that we have accomplished over the last 8 years. One of the things about serving Christ at North Branch that I most enjoy is your ability to try bold change.

When I look back over the years between 1999-2004 I praise God for your bold vision to:

• Restore the sanctuary with “Victorian elegance and modern relevance;”
• Purchase the Sunrise House to use for the mission of housing the homeless;
• And increase mission giving to 20% of the budget.

(We accomplished all three if you count the debt retirement line item for the Sunrise House as mission money.)

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Men’s Breakfast Saturday 10/20/2007

The next Men’s Breakfast is Saturday, October 20th, from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Enjoy good food, good friends, and a deeper faith.

Join the Choir

Do you read music?
Would you like to learn to play the bells?

If you are entering 5th grade or up, Helene needs YOU! ADULTS NEEDED TOO!

The Music Program, under the leadership of Helene Cantilina, Music Director, is a vital ministry at NBRC. Music reaches members of all ages and abilities and offers an opportunity to praise and glorify God.

The choirs play an important role in worship each Sunday. The Chancel Choir sings each Sunday. On different occasions the Joyful Noise, Carol and Youth Choirs sing, and the Carillon and Klokken bell choirs play. The music rehearsals are listed on the calendar. Contact Helene Cantilina at (908) 725-2313.

Music programs offer another opportunity for fellowship and worship. The choirs are open to anyone seeking to praise God through musical expression. Won’t you prayerfully consider joining a choir ?

Volunteer for the Community Visiting Nurse Association Hospice Group

Serve God within your community for the experience of a lifetime. Volunteer for the Community VNA Hospice group and make a difference in the life of others.

Contact the Volunteer Coordinator at (908) 725-9355 or click here www.communityvna.org for more information.

Join the New Jersey Computer Club

Does your computer ‘bug’ you? Join the NJCC to get helpful hints.

Meeting held here on the second Wednesday of each month.

Learn more at www.njcc.org

Christian Action Committee

Are you looking for an outlet to express your Christian commitment and Love? The Christian Action Committee is in need of additional members to carry out all of our special program.

Our meetings are the first Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m.

Children’s Clothing Challenge

Do you have used children’s Fall and Winter clothing in good condition, sizes infant to 18, that you would like to donate for a good cause? The Children’s Clothing Challenge sorts, packs, and delivers items to Somerville F.I.S.H. which then distributes them to needy children in our local area.

If you would like to make a donation, please leave clothing in a plastic bag in the church basement outside the sorting room by the elevator.

If you would like to help with sorting at NBRC, please contact Co-Coordinators Ellen Stires at 908-369-5476 or Sue Bateman at 908-369-6729.