Escondido United Reformed Church

A newsletter of the
Escondido United Reformed Church
1864 N. Broadway
Escondido, CA 92026
760-745-1679
www.escondidourc.org
Our pastors:
Rev. Philip Vos 760-745-2735 vos@escondidourc.org
Rev. Stephen Donovan 760-740-6617 donovan@escondidourc.org

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you
and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call
upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and
find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
Jeremiah 29:11-13
HELP: Family Ties is in need of baby food jars. If you have any, please
contact Linda Koonce or bring them to church on Sunday and place them
in the kitchen. Thank you!
This newsletter is written
with a love for this
congregation and it is
our desire to promote
fellowship among
members and friends of
the EURC. This
newsletter is posted
monthly on our church’s
website at
www.escondidourc.org.
If you would like to
submit something for the
June issue, please submit
it by Thursday, May 19
either e-mail
office@escondidourc.org
or place it in the
envelope in the foyer of
the EURC.
Please turn in
GRADUATION
information!!!
Anything turned
in after the deadline may
be used the following
month. Those on the staff
of the Share & Care are:
Brenda Vos,
Kandi Waardenburg,
Nick Van Dam &
Andy Van Die.
In this issue you will find:
1. Pastor’s Page
2. Being Fed by the
Word
3. Infant Baptism of
Analiese Brouwer
4. New Members: Paul
& Dori Hoekstra &
family
5. New Member:
Norma Cook
6. Family Ties—have
you signed up to
help?
7. Did you know?
9. Grandparent’s Day at
Calvin Christian
Elementary School
13. Linda Eckert’s trip to
Ghana with Rafiki
16. Mother’s Day Tribute
to Louisa Hicks
17. Mother’s Day Tribute
to Kris Brouwer
19. College Corner:
Mother’s Day notes
21. Let’s Hear from the
Kids about their
moms!
23. Sharing the Word
24. Homeword
25. The Hoekstra’s trip to
Ethiopia
27.5 Article in the North
County Times
regarding the
CCS Time
Capsule.
28. JHYG
29. GEMS Sunday
30. GEMS go to Valle
Vista Convalescent
Home
31. CCS 50th
Brilliant Idea!
#5 Is your house a little more
cluttered than you would like it to
be? Get started one room, one
closet, one drawer at a time, and begin to
de-clutter! Get rid of anything that hasn’t
been used for a year. If you take small steps,
the job isn’t so overwhelming and soon the job
will be done!
Anniversary Picnic—
have you signed up?
32. Offering Schedule
33. CCS Golf
Tournament
35. Ad Page
36. Host/Greeter
Schedule
37. Nursery Schedule
38. Anniversary Page
39. Birthday Calendar
40. Calendar of Events
41. EURC Quarterly
Financial Statements
Thanks to all of
you who
contributed
information for this
issue.
Hidden Picture: Did
you find the frog on
Mark Den Boer’s hat on
the YP Retreat page of
the April Share & Care?
See if you can find this
butterfly in this issue!
If you have a “brilliant idea” to share, please submit it to
Brenda or Kandi! Ideas will remain anonymous.

From the Desk
of
Rev. Philip J. Vos
“No one knows about that
day or hour, not even the
angels in heaven, nor the
Son, but only the Father. . .
. Therefore keep watch,
because you do not know on
what day your Lord will
come.”
Matthew 24:36,42
As I write the brief article it is April 25, 2011.
The day this Share and Care publication is handed
out it will be May 1, 2011, the Lord willing.
According to some May, 2011 is going to be a “big”
month. “An important event,” according to some, is
going to take place this month. It will be an event of
“cosmic proportion,” they say.
Maybe you’ve seen a billboard advertising
this event. There is one visible on the southbound
163 Freeway just north of the 805 Freeway on the
way to downtown San Diego. These billboards are in
other states too.
These billboards are sponsored by Family
Radio, co-founded by Harold Camping. Mr.
Camping is not unknown to many in the Reformed
circles. And one of the reasons for this has to do with
a similar event that was to have taken place, he said,
in 1994. In fact, in 1992 he wrote and published a
book with the title, 1994.
The event? Judgment Day; the return of
Christ. Of course, that obviously didn’t take place on
September 6, 1994, like Mr. Camping said it would.
But now the time has come again, and the newly
determined date that he and his followers have been
advertising is May 21, 2011.
Rev. Christopher Gordon, pastor of the United
Reformed Church in Lynden, Wa., has written an
excellent article, titled, “Harold Camping,
Judgment Day, and the rest of the story,” dealing
with Camping’s history and teachings, the danger
thereof, and giving an encouragement to Christians
with regard to how we ought to consider these
important matters. Rev. Gordon’s article can be
found published in the April 6, 2011 issue of
Christian Renewal.
It is not my purpose to report on or summarize
Rev. Gordon’s article. It is well worth reading. For
this brief article I simply want to reinforce one point
of application he made, which ought to be an
encouragement for each of us as believers, as we wait
patiently and expectantly for the return of our Lord
Jesus Christ on the clouds of heaven.
Of course it is easy for any of us to consider
the wars that have been going on in our recent
history, as well as the increase of natural disasters
producing devastation around the world, and think the
end may be near. And indeed it may be.
If May 21, 2011 is the day, that will be fine
with me. But it could be May 1, or 3, or 6, or even
today (April 25: if so this article will be null and
void!). But my hope is not in what Mr. Camping
thinks, but in what God has determined.
Rev. Gordon deals briefly with the danger of
date setting, rightly pointing out three reasons for this
danger. “First, it delays repentance in the wicked. . .
Second, predictions advance fear in weak Christians,
especially children, and fear takes our eyes off the
sovereign, all powerful risen Christ who is the Lord
of history and author of our future. . . . Third, Jesus
wants his people to live in readiness for his coming at
any moment.” He adds, “When these predictions fail
to happen, they serve to desensitize people to God’s
serious warning of sudden destruction that will come
upon those who do not believe (1 Thess. 5:3)”.
As believers our concern is not the “when”.
God has that well under control. Our concern as
Jesus said in Mt. 24:42 is to, “keep watch”. Our call
and concern is to be ready – today, this moment, right
now.
The Christian’s hope is a living hope, a
reality, even at this moment. Therefore God’s
blessing to us is that we do not need to fear, or set
dates. But simply as a church to preach the gospel,
and as believers to tell of this good news to those
with whom we have contact.
Yes, there ought to be an urgency to the
church and believer’s task to preach and witness of
the saving work of Jesus for those who place their
trust in Him. But that urgency is not because May
21, 2011 is coming. That urgency is because Jesus
Christ is coming again, at a time only His Father
knows. Indeed, may each one of us desire the
salvation of all with whom we are brought into
contact.
What a blessing to be ready by God’s gracious
work, for His return at any moment. Are you ready?
1

We are so thankful for the opportunity to worship
twice each and every Sunday at EURC. We praise
God for faithfully feeding us. The following
Scripture texts were presented and sermons were
preached from God’s Holy Word:
March 27, 2011 Jehovah’s Revelation by Fire 1)
a demonstration of divinity 2) a demonstration of
grace 3) a demonstration of judgment. I Kings
18:30-40 txt v. 38-40. “Don’t focus on the fire but
on the ONE who sent it!” Rev. Phil Vos
March 27, 2011 The Law’s Penetrating Light 1)
reveals God’s commands 2) uncovers man’s sin 3)
illumines Christ’s love. Matthew 22:34-40; LD 2.
“God didn’t wait for us to come to Him on our
own. It is His work from start to finish. We love
Him because He first loved us.” Rev. Phil Vos
April 3, 2011 The Restoration of Life 1) its
longed for announcement 2) its fervent prayer 3)
its refreshing blessing. I Kings 18:41-46. “Jesus
Christ is proof that we have confidence in all of
God’s promises.” “We have showers of blessing
for eternity.” Rev. Phil Vos
April 3, 2011 Life in Christ 1) Because the Father
has given us redemption 2) We are blessed in
Christ because we have a revelation 3) We are
blessed in Christ because we have an expectation
(or consummation) Ephesians 1:7-10 “By the
blood of Christ we were saved.” Mr. Angelo
Contreras
April 10, 2011 Jesus Presents the Question of
his Suffering: Why? 1) because of God 2)
because of God’s people. Isaiah 53; Mark 9:2-13;
text: v. 12. “Why did Jesus have to suffer?
Because God is holy and sin had to be punished….
Our guilt before God because of sin made us His
enemies. Punishment for that guilt went to
Christ.” Rev. Phil Vos
April 10, 2011 Man’s Utter Hopelessness—
Unless! 1) because of sin’s consequences 2)
unless he is born again. Genesis 6:1-8 HC LD 3
“When someone asks you, ‘How are you?’ Your
response should be, ‘In Christ Jesus, I am
blessed!’” Rev. Phil Vos
April 17, 2011 The Faultless Christ Rejected by
Men 1) Pilate attempted to free Him 2) He was
treated as guilty 3) He was presented as powerless.
John 18:28-19:16, text John 19:1-5. The Messiah
for whom they had waited and desired stood
before them …. and they sided with the earthly
king.” Rev. Phil Vos
April 17, 2011 The Truth of God’s Justice &
Mercy 1) What all men deserve 2) What believers
receive Psalm 5, Romans 6:8-23, txt. Romans
8:23. HC LD4. “The wages of sin is death
(justice) but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ
Jesus our Lord (mercy). His justice has been
satisfied and his mercies flow freely!” Rev. Phil
Vos
April 22, 2011—Good Friday Christ’s
Crucifixion Opens Heaven’s Presence 1) which
was once closed, 2) as He completed His work 3)
for His redeemed people. Matthew 27:32-54,
txt :51. “The curtain was a vivid symbol of the
separation of God from his people…. God himself
tore the curtain and opened heaven’s presence!”
Rev. Phil Vos
April 24, 2011—Easter Easter Tragedy to
Easter Triumph on the Emmaus Road 1) the
somber situation 2) the stunning surprise 3) the
spectacular sight. Luke 24:1-35, txt v. 13-35.
“Believers are called to encourage each other in
the faith!” Rev. Phil Vos
April 24, 2011 “I Know That My Redeemer
Lives” 1) How our Redeemer lives 2) How at the
end He will stand upon the earth 3) In our flesh we
will see Him. Job 19:23-27. “Christ conquered
death—He is the Lord! The only Lord, the only
King, the only Savior!” Mr. Derek Buikema.
If you would like to hear any of these
sermons again, go to our church’s
website www.escondidourc.org/
sermons.html.
2

David, Janet & Analise Haeun Brouwer
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Analise Haeun Brouwer was baptized on March 27, 2011.
Analise’s middle name, Haeun (Hay-Oon), means Grace in
Korean.
We are so thankful for the many blessings in our lives. We
are thankful for our church family who graciously allowed
Analise to “sing” during her baptism.
We are thankful for our families to be able to witness
Analise’s baptism. It was such a blessing to have
grandparents on both sides share in Analise’s special day.
She is the 18 th grandchild on David’s side and the 1 st
grandchild and great-grandchild on Janet’s side. She is so
loved!
Our greatest blessing that we can share with Analise is the
legacy of faith that both our families bring. Analise’s
special baptism gown was one that was worn by many
members of the Brouwer family. David wore it for his
baptism, and now, his daughter was able to wear it for her
baptism.
David continues his work as an agent at Brouwer Insurance.
Janet was able to take a maternity leave from her position as the Student Improvement Coordinator at
Calvin Christian School and she now has returned to work.
This new season in our lives has brought us so much joy. We are thankful for our family, church, and
school to share in raising our daughter in the fear and knowledge of the Lord.
A
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March
27,
2011
This is a photo from 1966 on David Brouwer’s baptism
day. His father, Elko Brouwer is holding him. Notice
that he is wearing the same baptism gown that Analise
wore 45 years later. Now that is a family heirloom! 3

Paul & Dori Hoekstra and their daughters, Olivia, Victoria & Julia
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April
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2011
Paul was born in the Sudan and grew up in
Ethiopia as a missionary kid. He was nurtured in the
knowledge of Jesus from an early age, made profession
of faith in a Presbyterian church at age 11, but in his late
teens/early twenties wandered away from God. The
Lord used a class on the writings of C. S. Lewis at
Pepperdine University to draw Paul back to
Himself. After finishing his degree in broadcasting, Paul
felt the Lord calling him to become a missionary and
bring His Word to those who have not heard
before. He became an RCA missionary and lived in
Singapore and Malaysia, working all over South-East
Asia and India for 12 years. During this time he
recorded the Bible in many different languages and had
the blessing of seeing many people come to a saving
knowledge of Jesus through listening to the Word of
God. He returned to the US in 1998 to start what was
later to become the Talking Bibles International ministry
with his father and brother. Paul travels quite a lot to
Asia and Africa with the Talking Bibles ministry.
Dori was born and raised in Hungary in a nonpracticing
Catholic (basically non-believing) home. The
Lord has blessed her with a wonderful, loving family but
grew up not knowing much about Jesus at all beyond the
“He is the baby in the manger at Christmas". Between high school and university, Dori took a year off
and spent it working in England in a Christian conference center. This was where the Lord planted the
first seeds of faith that she was aware of. A couple of years later she met some missionaries on the street
in her home town in Hungary and was invited to a Bible study. The Lord has opened her eyes and gave
her new life at the age of 22. The ensuing years were spent at university getting a degree in teaching
English and serving as a translator for the pastor of the church plant in the university town. They were
years the Lord has used to grow Dori in the faith. She came to the US in 1999 to attend Bible
college. After a year at Bible college she worked with a mission organization in Escondido and in
Tijuana, using English teaching as an outreach tool.
We (Paul & Dori) met in the fall of 2002 and married in December of 2003. The Lord has
blessed us with three little girls - Olivia was born in 2005, Victoria in 2007 and Julia in 2009. Olivia is at
Calvin preschool now and will be entering Kindergarten at Calvin in September. Victoria is a very social
little girl, loves to play with her sisters and friends. Julia is an independent 2 year old, happy in her "no
help, thank you" stage :) All three of them have settled into the children's programs here (Little Lambs,
Sunday school) very well and have made friends. For several years we were members of Community
Reformed Church in Escondido. Then, as the church was going through major changes, we felt that it
was time for us to find another church home. We visited several churches in the Escondido area, but
kept coming back to the EURC :) We appreciated the Bible-centered preaching, the wonderful children's
program and the loving, welcoming congregation. After a year of attendance we felt it was time to "tie
the knot", so to speak - to become official members of this church. We met with Reverend Vos a couple
of times and were blessed by his kind and patient guidance through the membership process. We met
with the elders a few weeks ago and we were accepted into the family of God here. We hope to get to
know many of you and pray that the Lord will bless this church through us as He has blessed us through
the church!
4

Norma Cook
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HAPPINESS IS being accepted as a Escondido
United Reformed Church member! Moving from my
home church and church friends in Virginia was a major
transition for me. However, my Meadowbrook family
and my EURC family seem to blend as one. I am most
grateful for Rev. Vos, Rev. Donovan, former Elder Elko
Brouwer, Elder Andy Van Die, Elder Lyle Faber and
Deacon Greg Tucker for paving the way for me to
become a EURC member. I would truly like to relive the
meeting with Rev. Vos and the Elders that transpired on
April 3.
As I was being assisted toward acceptance, I
became ill in late January which required six days in the
hospital and surgery. An uplifting visit from Rev. Vos
brought me out of my despair as did a visit by Elder
Andy Van Die. I knew my soul had been lifted! I was
encouraged and grateful to Jesus Christ by way of these
men.
I look forward to the watchful care of EURC as I reside at Meadowbrook Christian
Retirement Center. Thank you with all my heart.
In Christian love,
Norma Cook
April
10,
2011
Welcome To The Family By: Debby Kerner Rettino
Welcome to the family
We're glad that you have come
To share your life with us
As we grow in love and may we always be to you
What God would have us be a family always there
To be strong and to lean on.
May we learn to love each other
More with each new day
May words of love be on our lips in ev'rything we say
May the Spirit melt our hearts
And teach us how to pray
That we might be a true family
Words and Music by Debby Kerner Rettino, ©1982 Rettino/Kerner Publishing.
Used with permission.
5

July 18 –21, 2011 5:30-8:30 p.m. — ALL AGES WELCOME!
Family Ties is coming to EURC! We are so excited as we begin this
Faith Expedition! Thank you to the many who have volunteered to help
staff our Family Ties team, but we still need a lot more help! At this
writing we still need: 3 teachers: K, 1st and 4th grade; 5 helpers: K,
1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th grades. 4 JHYG leaders including one “in charge”
person for the JH kids; Greeters for every night; Parking lot for 3
nights; muscle crew; Nursery Coordinator and nursery volunteers for
every night; One person to be in the skit; 3 nights we need people to
staff the kitchen (and come up with a menu for that night); BBQ crew,
and special music for all 4 nights. We have a great coordinating
committee, but we cannot do the work by ourselves, we need your help!
Please venture into the social hall and sign up for something! If you
have any questions or would like to volunteer, contact Brenda Vos.
Thank you!
6

Congratulations to Josh &
Karen Christoffels and big
brother Levi, in the birth of
a daughter/sister. Miriam
Joy was born Wednesday,
March 30, 2011. She
weighed in at 9 pounds 12
ounces and is 19” long.
We rejoice with Brian and
Michelle Postma in the birth
of a daughter, Alaina
Shirley Postma, born, April
12, 2011. She weighed in at
7 pounds 10 ounces and is 20
inches long. She joins big
brother, Caleb at home.
Rick and Linda Marcus
have a new grandson!
Isaac James was born on
March 25 to Josh and
Mindy Marcus. He joins
big sister Abigail at home.
This makes 2
grandchildren for Rick and Linda and 31
grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren for Abe
& Doris Marcus! We praise God for these
blessings.
Carly Donovan and Titus
Mischke are engaged to be
married! They are planning
a wedding for later this year
after which Carly will be
moving to Los Angeles
where he currently lives.
Congratulations!
7

The Calvin Christian
School had the Twenty-
First Annual National
Honor Society Induction
for the Crusader Chapter
on April 18, 2011. Our
EURC students were well
represented. Jessica
Jacobi opened with
prayer. Jonathan Koonce
gave a speech on
Leadership, and Tim
Hoekstra led the NHS
pledge. Those who are in
NHS from EURC are: Casey Bousema, Tim
Hoekstra, Jessica Jacobi, Jonathan Koonce,
Katrina Brouwer, Mark DenBoer, Rachel
DenBoer, Joni Hillebrecht, Austin Jansma,
Zach Katje, Garret Senti, Nicholas Vos and
Courtney Waardenburg. Congratulations
students!
If you are interested in getting tickets
for the CCS high school musical,
please contact http://
www.weeklywriter.org/musical/.
The dates for the musical are May 24,
25, 27 and 28. They are doing a Musical Revue
and it looks like it will be very good. Many of
the EURC kids are in it! Get your tickets quick
and ask to sit by a table (bleacher seating is also
available—order your tickets soon!) Donna
Willard is involved in the ticket sales, so contact
her with any questions.
On Sunday, April 3, Luke &
Joyce Dekker provided cake
for the entire congregation to
celebrate their 50th wedding
anniversary! Unfortunately,
Luke ended up not feeling
well that day and they were
unable to be there! So, our church family
enjoyed the cake and celebrated God’s goodness
to Luke & Joyce without them! Thank you to the
food service group led by Joan De Haan and
Linda Koonce for willingly serving!
SERVING is
important! Did you
know that John
Brouwer will be
attending SERVE this
summer to Winnipeg
Manitoba to serve IN
the community? This
is the only Special
Needs Missionswhere
kids with
disabilities do the
work! He’ll be
traveling with his
hand drum to participate in the Praise and
Worship times. Please pray for him from now
until July 16-21! May 14, 2011 there will be a
garage sale to raise funds for his trip!
Please add the following addresses and phone
numbers to your church directory:
John & Angela Vreeken
Joshua & Karen Christoffels (Levi & Miriam)
Words of blessing from the Bible...
Grace to you and peace from God our
Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philemon 1:3
So you shall rejoice in every good thing
which the LORD your God has given to
you and your house. Deuteronomy 26:11
For the LORD is good; His mercy is
everlasting, and His truth endures to all
generations. Psalm 100:5
The Lord your God in your midst, The
Mighty One will save; He will rejoice over
you with gladness, He will quiet you with
His love, He will rejoice over you with
singing. Zephaniah 3:17
8

CCS Grandparent’s Day 2011
9

CCS Grandparent’s Day 2011
10

CCS Grandparent’s Day 2011
My
grandparents
are the BEST!
11

Linda Eckert and her trip to Ghana with Rafiki—March 2011
"Rafiki" means friend in Swahili and
depicts the purpose of the foundation--to befriend
orphans and widows in their distress. James 1:27
The country of Ghana is located in West
Africa a few degrees above the equator with a
population of about 24 million people. Ghana is
a little smaller than Oregon and Oregon has only
4 million. The temperature when I was there
averaged 95 degrees and very humid. Driving
from the village to Accra you see most of the 24
million people selling on the side of every street,
alley or bridge. Everything is bought and sold on
the street: milk, fruit, bread, ice and water. By
the Rafiki village, most of the people sell fruit
that they get off the trees near their village.
There are no wild animals in Ghana. Just
lizards, snakes and gecko's. I did see a monkey
but it was a pet monkey.
Driving is insane. No one slows down to
let you in and they make their own lanes
especially when you come to a stretch of dirt
road. There are no rules and lots of deep holes
you have to maneuver around. You rarely see a
women driver in Ghana (I only saw one) but
traffic accidents are one of the main causes of
death there.
The road to the Rafiki village is also a
dirt road. Many people live in the fields around
that road, and call it living “in the bush.” A staff
member took me to several of these
villages. The huts are made of mud with tree
branches for the roof. There are goats and
chickens running around and many many
children. The women cook outside in big pots
over an open fire. There is no electricity or
running water. They sleep on dirt floors without
blankets, most have no shoes, pit toilets and
bathe in a basin outdoors. They welcome you to
their village and are very happy people. The
poverty in material things was unbelievable, but
rich in God's love.
When you go through the gate to the
Rafiki village you would never know you were in
Africa. Still dirt roads but no holes and the
houses are just like yours and mine. They are
cement and have running water, a kitchen and a
bathroom.
There are three schools with classrooms
and a high school being built. The classrooms
are not as nice as our schools but are
adequate. The children all wear uniforms to
school with school shoes and they change right
after school. The schools are cleaned by the
children. They have a schedule and I think 5
children clean each day. They sweep with the
Ghana broom, mop the floors, and clean the
bathrooms.
In the morning 1st grade through 10th
line up in a row according to grade and one of
the 10th graders leads the pledge to the Ghana
flag, the national anthem and a hymn before
leading the group in prayer. The pre-school and
kindergarteners do that in the classroom with
their teacher.
It is hard to image that most of these
children were abandoned with no hope and what
they went through before coming to Rafiki. Each
one of them had been orphaned and faced a
desolate future. They now have a home, a mama,
and are growing up to know their Heavenly
Father.
The children are divided up into cottages
which have 4 bedrooms, a living area and a
bathroom. Each child has their own bed. There
are 10 children to each cottage with
a mama. These mamas are specially selected
single African women (mostly widows) who
have signed up and been trained to be a mama to
these kids. She cares for them and has
devotions with them in the evening before bed
and teaches them to pray. Anytime the children
are in the cottage and you walk by you always
hear them singing hymns. These children now
13

Linda Eckert and her trip to Ghana with Rafiki—March 2011
have a future to know the love of Jesus and to
grow up to serve the Lord. Many of these
children still need sponsors. For just $25.00 a
month you could sponsor one of these little ones.
When I was in the dining hall the reality
of the situation set in… 115 orphans… Every
day they have 3 meals a day, a home, a bed to
sleep in, clean clothes, an education and a unique
opportunity to know Christ at an early age. May
the Lord continue to bless the work of Rafiki
such that these kids will be well cared for and
grow up to love and serve the Lord.
Beside the 115 children in school, they
also have 58 children that have been approved
and come from the surrounding area. They are
the very poor and often have to walk a long way
to attend school. They are given breakfast and
lunch (usually the only meals they
get) uniforms, a book bag and attend the Rafiki
schools and also learn about God's love. They
leave to go home when school is over. Not all
have great home lives, but they are determined to
get an education.
In the dining hall there is a table for each
cottage. As a mini missionary I was assigned a
different table to sit with every couple days for
lunch and supper. The mama gets this big bowl
of food and dishes it out, to me first as the guest
and then the children. They want to fill your
bowl so you have to be fast telling them "little
bit" and "no fish". The main things they eat are
rice, kenkey (ball of corn paste cooked in corn
husks) and plantine (looks like a cooked banana).
They are served with a red spicy sauce with large
pieces of fish in it. One night we had spaghetti
with a good sauce. When they get their food
there is no conversation at the table. They have a
huge helping of whatever and no one leaves
anything in their bowl.
The food that you buy even from the
grocery store like lettuce, grapes plums or
anything without something to peel you put them
in water with a capful of bleach and let them
soak for 15 minutes. That kills any bacteria that
might be on them.
First thing in the morning I had devotions
with the Nationals (Africans that work there).
The village director led devotions and we used
the Rafiki Bible lesson (some written by Dr.
Godfrey) that every grade in school, the mamas,
the nationals and the ROS's use. There is a song
that is listed at the top and we sing that song all
week and every verse with no music. Every
group has their lesson at a different time so when
you walk around the village you hear that song
all day. My favorite was the "Deep Deep Love
of Jesus". Everyone loved singing it so it was
sung very loud by each group.
After devotions I worked for the nurse
who is the child care director. I did computer
work , redid height and weight charts, and edited
recipes. I put pills in small bags so they are
ready for each cottage. I cut material in squares
to be sewn for napkins, sorted board games to
find lost pieces for game days, and anything else
she needed done.
At 10 o’clock I went to a gazebo and read
stories to the 3, 4 and 5 yr olds. This was the
most fun. They are so cute and so happy all the
time. One day I wore knee high nylons because
my sandals hurt and this was a big fascination to
them. They touched and pulled at them and one
little boy in the dining hall followed me out and
ask what I had on my feet.
They have you read stories to help them
with their English. Most speak two languages:
their native language and English. There
pronunciation is different and I had a hard time
understanding them, but the longer you are there
the easier it is. When they hear you speak it
helps them with their English.
After about 3 or 4 stories I would say “the
end” and the children all say together "Thank
you madam Linda, God bless you". Then the
children sang for me. They sang about 10
different songs and they all knew the
14

Linda Eckert and her trip to Ghana with Rafiki—March 2011
words. Most of the songs they sing are
hymns. One of my favorites was "Good Morning
Jesus Good Morning Lord". God has
truly blessed these children and also blessed me
as I listened to them. After story time it was
time for lunch and then gardening.
In the afternoon I would tutor Ellen, a
4th grader, in reading, straighten the library
books and then tutor Joe, a 6th grader. When I
got home I wanted to send Ellen a postcard so I e
-mailed her principal for her last name. She told
me that “my girl Ellen” had brought a little
mouse to school and put it in her pencil box with
some bread crumbs. Someone told and needless
to say the mouse was put outside. Joe was a real
quiet boy but soon developed into quite a
talker. He liked being tutored because it was
after school time so he got out of cleaning the
school when it was his turn.
Whenever a child passes you the girls
must curtsy and say "Please good
morning" (afternoon or evening). The boys have
to do a type of salute and say the same
thing. The girls are so cute and each one does it
different. Some bend way over, some just bend a
knee and some just squat. Even the littlest ones
do it. When they wanted to talk to me it was
always “Madam Linda.” This is a sign of respect
because I am old. When they are out walking or
playing and see you in the distance they wave
and shout “Madam Linda.” I think I waved more
than the queen. You must wave with your right
hand because the left is perceived as dirty in their
culture.
On Sunday I went with one of the ROS to
a Baptist church. Before we arrived we could
hear them singing. They have a prompter with
the words of the song on it and the congregation
stands with hands reaching to heaven and bodies
swaying to the music. They sing so beautiful
waving handkerchiefs in the air. The first song
was "He is exalted! The King is exalted on
high!" You could truly see their love for the
Lord.
The guest house had an air conditioner
that worked most of the time when the electricity
was on. Electricity goes off at least twice a day
and sometimes we had half power. Every
building has fans but if there is no electricity, no
fans. There are no air conditioners in the
school, cottages or dining hall.
It has been a month since I left Africa.
It's hard to explain what it's like to be back home
having just experienced such an amazing
trip. On one hand it is good to be home, back to
family and friends. On the other hand, it is so
hard when I feel like I left a bit of my heart with
the children in Ghana. Despite the crushing
poverty, that you see all over, there is something
about the people that wins you over and you
want to go back. Clearly, my mind and heart
have been deeply etched by the imprint of the
children, the village, and seeing the work the
Lord is doing there.
I feel very blessed to have had the
privilege to serve these little ones. Everyone can
be a candidate to be a mini missionary helping
with things such as teaching, maintenance,
sewing, tutoring, dishes, or helping with the
children. Lord willing, I will go back at a later
time and stay longer.
I want to thank you for all your prayers
and support. It was so appreciated.
Special thanks to Elaine Tan for
introducing me to and sharing her special love
for the children and Rafiki .
To view my pictures: http://
www.kodakgallery.com. On the right hand side
click sign in and put in ghanapic@aol.com the
password africa (all lowercase) click on friends
albums click on the album and then on the left
click view slideshow. You should be able to see
captions on the pictures.
Linda Eckert
** the photo album really tells the story and you get a great idea
of Linda’s time in Ghana with these children. Please check it
out! Thanks to Linda for sharing her experiences with us!
15

When Joshua and I
think about people who we
admire in our lives, we think
about our mom. She is a
very special and strong
woman. She is very humble
and puts others before
herself. She always makes
sure that everyone is taken
care of and has what they
need before her.
I believe that a lot of
this has come from her
childhood. When she was
younger, she did not grow up
in a Christian household.
She came to know God through a family friend, who
took her and her sister to Good News Club through
Emmanuel Faith. From then on, she devoted her life
to God and wanted to live and walk a godly life. She
realized what it meant to be a Christian and how to
treat others with a Christian love.
Throughout the years, our mom put Joshua
and me first before herself. When we were in school,
she made sure that our homework was done, and
made sure that we had the supplies we needed for
school. She would stay up late helping us with
homework and school projects. When we started to
get older, she would support the decisions we have
made in our lives. She has always taken care of us
when we were sick, was a listening ear when we
needed someone to talk to, a shoulder to cry on when
we needed to cry, and would do her very best to cheer
us up when we were down. Throughout the years,
our mom has
become our
best friend.
One
of our
favorite
memories of
our mom is
that she
loves to
work in the
yard. It did
not matter if
it was
pulling
A Tribute to our Mom—Louisa Hicks
By Jessica Gomes and Joshua Bennetts
weeds, planting flowers, or
working her in her vegetable
garden. She always found it
to be therapeutic and relaxing.
Another one of our
favorite memories is mom
baking. Especially during the
holidays, she loves to make
cinnamon bread and cookies.
Whenever we had friends
over, she would make sure
that we had enough chocolate
chip cookies to eat as well.
Another favorite
memory is that she loves to
work on crafts. She is always
working on some sort of project. It can be either
sewing, wood work, or scrapbooking.
She also loves to have family and friend gettogethers.
She loves being around people, playing
games, and making others smile. Her favorite games
consist of Canasta, Progressive Rummy, Risk, and
bowling on the Wii.
Mom, you have always been there for us and
have put us first. Thank you so much for all of your
love and support. It has meant a lot to us. We
constantly look to you for help
and guidance when we need it.
We love you!
Love,
Joshua & Jessica
16

Amidst a pile of greeting cards
and "#1 Mom" mugs, Mother's Day
may start to feel a little shallow. Even
though we care for and appreciate the
people in our lives year-round, we can
always use a reminder and a specific
occasion to shout it from the rooftops.
So here goes: WE LOVE YOU
MOM!
Thinking about writing this
blurb, so many memories come to
mind. But we pared it down and will
highlight a few through lessons we’ve
learned from Mom.
Lesson #1: Take care of others.
Picture driving down the 15
with your kids and the person in front
of you slows down a little faster than
usual. What do you do? If you’re Kris Brouwer, after slamming on the brakes, your arm flies across the
car acting as a human seatbelt for your passenger. It’s a simple example (and something we will always
tease her for), but it shows in a moment what she has portrayed in so many ways. Her caring nature
shows itself constantly; from remembering our favorite meals to sending care packages to us at college to
being a listening ear and word of advice with our best in mind.
Lesson #2: Don’t take yourself too seriously.
One of Mom’s favorite restaurants is Olive Garden, especially because of their Tiramisu. She
claims it’s the only dessert she likes enough to order at a restaurant. But for some reason, she has a
difficult time telling a fake one from the real deal. Several years ago, we were there for her birthday and
she was convinced that the tray of desserts setting out was made up of plastic mockups for display. What
better way to prove that to us all than to poke it? Only, her finger sank into the cake much more than it
would have with a piece of plastic.
And before we could say, "Look what
Mom did!”, she was shuffling us out
the door.
This story became a regular
source of amusement at our house
along with countless stories about each
family member. It was a piece of her
family growing up that has carried
over into ours and has taught us the
valuable lesson of being able to laugh
at ourselves.
Lesson #3: Keep your priorities
straight.
Scripture tells us that the first
and greatest commandment is to love
the Lord and the second, to love your
neighbor. No matter how many times
17

we hear those commands, we
can always strive to imitate
Christ better in those ways.
One of the ways the Lord has
used to bring about that
attitude in us has been
through Mom’s example.
Whether it’s in the way she
loves to sing the true words
of hymns or finds so much
joy in making others laugh
and smile or gives of her
time and talents to countless
committees, groups, and
Bible studies, we can see
those priorities shining
through.
Happy Mother’s Day,
Mom. Thank you for your
caring heart, your sense of
humor, and the example you set. We love (and miss) you.
Love,
Alicia, Amanda, Adam, and Alex
Portrait of a Mother
A most beautiful portrait of a Christian mother is given to us in the Bible. Chapter 31 of the book
of Proverbs portrays for us those qualities of heart and mind that make a true mother.
If you have a mother who is like this portrait, be sure to thank her while you can. If you are a
mother, ask God to help you to be like this mother.
Here are the qualities the writer lists for us:
Wisdom: She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. Proverbs 31:26
Industry: She gets up while it is still dark; She provides food for her family… She sets about her work
vigorously; Her arms are strong for her tasks. (15, 17)
Generosity: She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. (20)
Faithfulness: Her husband has full confidence in her … She brings him good, not harm, all the days of
her life. (11, 12)
Character: She is clothed with strength and dignity; She can laugh at the days to come. (25)
Faith: Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. (30)
Why should a mother who trusts in the Lord be praised, rather than one who has charm and
beauty? Because true happiness for herself and her children can be found only when they are in a right
relationship with Jesus Christ.
A mother with these qualities is to be thanked. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband
also, and he praises her: Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. (28,29)
That’s quite a portrait! Is it your portrait? Do you have these qualities of heart and mind? Do
you have the beauty that comes through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ? God can give you these qualities
through the power of faith and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
May you excel in the noble, demanding, and often thankless task of being a mother!
John T. Ebbers
The Tract League, Grand Rapids MI 49534. www.tractleague.com Used with permission
18

Mom
Mom I love you,
I really do.
When I make a mess,
you make it less
Mom, I love you
And so do you
today you deserve to be praised
for you are a woman, who has amazed.
Spencer Broek
Dordt College
Mom,
Thank you for always
being there for me and
encouraging me this past
year. Being away from home
really made me realize all the
little things you did for us kids
that no one ever asked you to, and
I appreciate it a lot more now than
I did then. You are a strong
Christian woman who always puts others before
yourself, and work extremely hard without
expecting anything in return. Thank you for
making me school lunches (the food here doesn’t
even begin to compare to yours), driving me all
over for 16 years, and always pushing me to do my
best. Sorry I can’t be there on mother’s day. I love
you so much, and I’m excited for summer. I can’t
wait to be home and make the house lively and loud
again, I know you miss it :)
See you soon, love you Mom.
Melissa Brouwer
Dordt College
Mom,
Have an awesome Mother's
Day! I wish I could be down
there with you all. I am so
excited to come down for the
musical and hang out with
everyone. I love you tons and
miss you up here. (and your
cooking; VG's is getting pretty
old again )
Rob Hillebrecht
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
I'd like to thank my mom for all
the help and support she has given
me over the past few months of
my life. They have been filled with
many changes and she has been
there to comfort me the whole
way! I love you and miss you
mom!
Janaye Boersma
What "Mother" Means
"Mother" is such a simple
word,
But to me there’s meaning
seldom heard.
For everything I am today,
My mother’s love showed me
the way.
I’ll love my mother all my
days,
For enriching my life in so many ways.
She set me straight and then set me free,
And that’s what the word "mother" means to me.
Thanks for being a wonderful mother, Mom!
By Karl Fuchs
Mom, although I did not write this poem myself I
believe that it is a simple representation of what you
mean to me. There is so much that you, as my
Mom, put up with even when I am living in another
state…. and supposed to be taking care of myself. I
truly appreciate all you do for me: like letting me
move back home this May! Love you always!!
Nicole Vander Woude
Texas Christian University
19

Dear Mom,
you are da bomb
that is clearly not wrong
you are so very kind
and you have a super awesome
mind.
I love you mom,
you are The Best Mom Ever .com
Love you
Daniel Tiersma
Calvin College
Dear Mother, I love you and look
forward to spending time at home
this summer!
Drew Feenstra
Calvin College
Dear Mom,
You don't tuck me in, or sing me
to sleep.
You don't do my laundry, or help
me eat.
But you've given me wisdom that
I'm sure to keep,
and for that I am thankful.
We may live apart but you are close to my heart.
When trouble comes near I know where to start.
Your example in life, through joy and through strife
was such a blessing.
"Train a child in the way he should go, and when he
is old he will not turn from it."
Andrea (Marcus) Kreykes
Dordt College
My Mom,
I think my mom is pretty
awesome. At least she tells me
that. But its probably true
because she is pretty athletic
also. But she only ever tells me
that too! Alright I'm just kidding.
I love my mom because she does
all kind of things for me like
cooking, cleaning, and doing my
wash. I am a lot more thankful for her now since I
have to do that all for myself now in college. I
couldn't really imagine having any other mom either
because she has brought me up perfectly I think.
She is great and I am glad that she has a sense of
humor too.
Jordan Bousema
Dordt College
Mom, I'll always cherish the memories of growing
up in such a creative home: doing crafts around the
table, cooking experiments in the kitchen, and
wearing dress-ups to the grocery store. But even
more, you've taught me how to care for people and
how to be hospitable in word and deed. Thank you
for your loving support and for your listening ear.
Happy Mother's Day, I can't wait to see you for
graduation! Love you!
Liesje Brouwer
Calvin College
Because of your training and constant praying
I have come to know He loves me so,
You and Dad have been the example.
So rest easy at night and know that my life
has been set on the way that you have prayed.
and for that I am thankful!
My dearest parents,
I love you. I thank the Lord continually for the work
that He started in me through you.
I remember Proverbs ch 22 verse 6:
20

You may recall a comedy series hosted by Bill Cosby that aired on CBS from 1998 to 2000. It was based on a
popular feature of Art Linkletter’s radio show House Party and television series Art Linkletter’s House Party
which together aired mostly five days a week from 1945 to 1969. {From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia} Well, the Share
& Care staff is not claiming to be either of these gentlemen, but one of our favorite tasks is interviewing some
of the children out on the school’s playground. What joy these children bring as they honestly answer the
questions that we ask to them.
What is your favorite meal that your mom makes for you?
Olyvia: Ravioli!
Noah:
Pasta!
Noah:
Pizza!
Jaxon:
Stuffed shells!
Anneke:
Spaghetti!
Luke: Sunday
breakfast—like
monkey bread!
What is your favorite activity to do with your mom?
Keith:
Make a cake or
a pie!
Casey:
Going to visit
my grandmas!
Erica:
Going on
roller coasters!
Mikayla:
Sewing!
Nicklas:
Going to the
beach!
Eliyana:
Reading!
My mom likes to….
Evan:
make stroop
waffles!
Gloria:
do
scrapbooking!
Gerrit:
cook and
bake ....
Ariana: go
shopping!
Anna :
go on vacation
and spend time
with the kids!
Julia: have
family
get-togethers!
21

What makes your mom happy?
James:
Hugs & kisses!
Mikayla:
When I give her
a gift!
Bryce:
Letting her
sleep in!
Corinna:
When I clean
my room!
Kara: When my
dog doesn’t
p—p on the carpet
or in the office
and she
likes it when I
do the dishes.
Annaliese:
When my dad
and us girls give
her presents!
What is your favorite meal to make?
Kathryn — “Breakfast: egg and cheese on toast.”
Carla — “Something Italian … or tacos because everybody likes them!”
Jessica — “Enchilada suizas.”
Heidi — “Southwest chicken egg rolls.”
Sharon — “Thai food.”
Elsie — “Brown beans—which is a Dutch meal.”
What is your favorite activity to do with your kids?
Lynn — “Reading.”
Anita — “Playing games when we have the time.”
Sharon — “We like to go to the beach.”
Kim — “With Mikayla I like to have story time and snuggling!”
Sharon — “Go to the beach.”
Heidi — “Camping!”
What do you like to do?
Lori — “I like to read and fix photos!...”
Lynn— “I like to bird watch.”
Angela — “I like to do crafts—like scrapbooking.”
Michele— “Hang out at home with my husband and kids.”
Kelley — “Go to the beach!”
Patty — “Bake, read, and spend time with my family.”
What makes you happy?
Michele — “Being home with my family with nothing and nowhere pressing to do or to go!”
Maria Lynn — “Having a good time with family and friends … just being together.”
Heidi — “Bright beaming smiles on my children’s faces and uncontrollable belly giggles.”
Anita — “Seeing my kids playing together happily!”
Kelly — “When my kids are happy!”
Kathryn — “Having all the family home—each involved in their own projects.”
22

Life and Death
April 4, 2011
Dear friends,
I've been thinking a lot recently about life and death. Within an eight-day period (March 25-April 2) I
attended three memorial services, beginning with an 86-year old mother and grandmother, continuing with a
40-year old single mother who had battled cancer for several years, and concluding with a 15-year old boy
who had lived his life with Hunter's Syndrome.
All three belonged "body and soul, in life and in death to [their] faithful Savior Jesus Christ." (Heidelberg
Catechism) All three were dearly loved and beautifully honored by their families and friends in services that
honestly mixed tears and smiles. And above all the Lord was exalted in praise and leaned upon in faith.
In the middle of that eight-day stretch, we went with our son and grandson to see "Bodies Revealed" at
the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The museum website explains that "more than a dozen full body human
specimens and hundreds of organs are respectfully displayed to tell the story of the miraculous systems at
work within each of us."
Large posters told the story of Greek physician Hippocrates (c. 460-c. 370 B.C.), Roman surgeon Galen
(129-199), Belgian-Dutch anatomist Andreas Vesalius (1514-1564), English physiologist William Harvey
(1578-1657), French chemist Louis Pasteur (1822-1895), Scottish pharmacologist Alexander Fleming (1881
-1955), and other twentieth century pioneers in medicine. These dedicated scientists grappled physically
with the issues with which we wrestled emotionally and spiritually at these funerals. In a laboratory or in a
sanctuary life and death remain miraculous and mysterious. We are "fearfully and wonderfully made" and
"all the days ordained for [us are] written in Your book before one of them came to be." (Psalm 139:14,16)
Grief and glory are both real. I praise God today that we do not "grieve like the rest of men, who have no
hope." Why? "We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus
those who have fallen asleep in Him . . . . Therefore encourage each other with these words." (I
Thessalonians 4:13,14,18)
Verses for the day:
None of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone. If we live, we live to the Lord; and if
we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. (Romans 14:7,8)
Phrase for the day - we belong to the Lord
Quote for the day - from "Now Thank We All Our God" by Martin Rinkart (1636)
O may this bounteous God through all our life be near us,
with ever joyful hearts and blessed peace to cheer us,
to keep us in His grace, and guide us when perplexed,
and free us from all ills of this world in the next.
With the prayer that today you will find a joyful heart, blessed peace and keeping grace in the God of
miracles and mysteries.
Rev. Dale VanderVeen
Rev. VanderVeen is a retired CRC pastor. He is spending his retirement years in Michigan where he sends out
daily e-votionals This devotional was used with his permission.
23

Let your ‘Yes’ be “Yes”:
Keeping your Word with
your Kids
By Jim Burns, Ph.D. Printed by
permission of HomeWord. For additional information on
HomeWord, visit www.homeword.com or call 800-397-
9725.
“You promised that you would come to my
game! Where were you?”
“Mom, you said you would pick me up at
9:30 – and it’s 10:30! Why do I always have to
be the last one to get picked up? You’re always
late!”
“Honey I had a bad day at work! I’m sorry, I
know I promised, but I don’t want your friend to
come over to our house tonight. Just call her and
tell her that she can’t come over because I’m
sick.”
“Dad, what do you mean I can’t get my
driver’s license? You said I could get it if I
passed my biology class and I passed it!”
Do any of these comments sound
familiar? Too often, parents have resorted to not
keeping their word with their kids. Parents may
not intentionally try to hurt their kids, but when
moms and dads don’t keep their word, they
cause damage to relationships and trust—
sometimes creating lifelong negative
consequences—in kids’ lives. Someone has said,
“Things are never quite the same somehow after
you have to lie to a person.” While I don’t agree
with the “have to lie” part of the quote, I do
agree that lying damages relationships – even in
parent-child relationships.
Jesus commands his followers, “Simply
let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes,’ and your ‘no’ be ‘no’;
anything beyond this comes from the evil
one.” (Matthew 5:37.) Let’s face facts—no
parent is perfect. Still, as parents we are called to
live our lives with integrity. Because we serve as
our children’s role models for life and faith, we
need to be very careful in how we live our lives
before our kids.
The spirituality of your kids is very
dependent on the examples they see you setting
at home. Kids need your integrity! If you desire
your children to have vibrant spiritual lives, then
they need to see an authentic faith lived out in
your life. No one expects perfection, but a “do as
I say, not as I do” attitude is not likely to
produce a vital Christian lifestyle in your
teenager’s life either. Kids have a highly tuned
“hypocrisy” detector and they are all too aware
of the promises their parents have made and not
kept. Your kids don’t need your perfection. They
need your honesty—and if you fail, they need to
see how you follow Christ despite your struggles
and failures along the way—in order to display
an authentic example of Christianity lived out in
the real world.
So what can you do to work on making
sure your ‘yes’ is ‘yes’ and your ‘no’ is ‘no’?
Here are some tips:
1. Think before you promise. Ask
yourself, “If I make this promise, can I keep my
word?”
2. If you can’t keep your word, don’t
promise. It’s much better to say, “I’m going to
try my hardest to get to your game tomorrow,
but I can’t promise you I’ll make it”—and not
make it—than to say, “I’ll be there for sure!”
and not show up.
3. Think before you act. When it comes
to your behaviors around home, ask yourself, “If
I say or do this, what example will that set for
my child?”
4. Ask for your child’s forgiveness
when you fail to keep your word. Don’t sweep
your failures under the carpet. Face them head
on. Apologize and ask for forgiveness.
5. Realign your priorities. If you find
that you regularly can’t keep your word to your
kids, it’s time to reassess and realign your
priorities. Keeping your family healthy and your
kids on track to grow into mature and
responsible adults requires that you make
decisions to be involved and connected in their
lives. Your presence in your children’s lives
makes an incredible difference! You may not
make as much money if you leave work early
every week to show up at your daughter’s soccer
games, but it will be more than worth the effort
in the long run!
24

Ethiopia . . . a trip to remember!
(February 17-27, 2011)
What a wonderful trip we had! Thank you
for your prayers on our behalf! We traveled to
Ethiopia in response to the invitation of the
Majangir Bethel Synod (the Christian church of the
Majangir people of southwest Ethiopia) to take part
in a special dedication service on February 22 for
the Talking Bible in the Majang language, part of
their second annual Synod meetings. (Actually,
only Matthew, Mark, Luke, & John have been fully
translated into Majang, so, although we carried 200
“Talking Bibles” in our suitcases, these were
“partial” Bibles, only “loaded” with the 4 gospels –
please pray with us for the ongoing work of Bible
translation for the Majangir.) It was a time of great
excitement and celebration.
8 Hoekstras left LAX on February 17 –
Harvey (90 yrs. old), 4 of his 6 children: Dennis,
Carol, Mark, and Paul…Mark’s wife Sandy and 2
of their sons, Curtis & Tim. This was a very special
trip for us. Harvey is a retired missionary. He &
his wife Lavina (deceased May 2010) were career
missionaries, first working in south Sudan, Africa,
among the Anuak and Murle people, then moving
to Godare River in the rainforest of southwestern
Ethiopia in 1964 to the Mesengos (Majangir), a
primitive, unreached people group – caught up in
the darkness of paganism, witchcraft, spiritism.
They shared the love and messages of Jesus Christ
with the Majang, and many became believers. In
1964, Paul was 3, Mark & Carol were 10 & 11.
Dennis began his career as a Mission Aviation
Fellowship pilot in the 1960’s in Ethiopia, and
helped airdrop supplies to his parents at their new
mission post. He has just recently retired. The
Hoekstras left Ethiopia in 1976. Harvey & Carol
have not been back since then. Mark & Paul visited
in the 1990’s. Sandy, Curtis & Tim have never
been there, but we’ve heard so many stories!
(Some of you have read them, too, in Dr.
Hoekstra’s book in our church library)
We flew to Amsterdam on KLM, about 24
hours there, then continued on to Addis Ababa,
Ethiopia, arriving about midnight Saturday. We
were met by Solomon Gizaw, a young Ethiopian
with close ties to the Hoekstra family – Dr. & Mrs.
Hoekstra helped him to get college and flight
training – now he owns a charter flight service in
Ethiopia – he met us at the airport that night and
said to Dr. Hoekstra, “Welcome home!” He and his
family helped us SO much all week!
We enjoyed good accommodations in Addis
– we heard the daily Moslem calls to prayer as they
woke us each morning, and we absorbed the sights
and sounds and CRAZY traffic of the busy city. A
friendly Christian taxi-driver with a van helped us
to get around the city and we explored markets, the
boarding schools that the Hoekstra kids had
attended – one still in operation today, the other
now a military post. Our group had been joined by
two men from Minnesota – Paul Lindberg and
Walter Potts – volunteers who did the recording of
the 4 Majang gospels last year in June in Ethiopia
for Talking Bibles – now with us for the dedication
service and distribution of the Bibles. Paul L.,
Walter, Paul H., and Mark had many meetings
during the week with missionaries and others as
they explored the needs and possibilities for more
language recordings needed in various people
groups of Ethiopia.
Tuesday was the big day! Solomon’s plane
took us from Addis to Teppi (350 miles southwest
of Addis Ababa) – we knew the Majang were
expecting us, that word had spread about our
arrival, and everyone was excited – but what a
tremendous experience it was to approach the
runway in Teppi in that small plane and to see
thousands of people lining the runway, and still
coming, as far as we could see, still coming down
the runway. We were warmly welcomed, children
presented Dr. Hoekstra with bouquets of artificial
flowers as he got off the airplane. When we
approached the city hall which the church had
reserved for the service, large banners outside
advertised the service – one had a picture on it of
Harvey & Lavina, and said, “The Hoekstras – We
will always remember you for you led us to eternal
life. The Majangir.” The hall was packed (and
hot!) – at least 2000 people inside, dancing, singing,
swaying, celebrating. In a 2-hour service of
dedication, worship and celebration music, praise
was given to God for the deliverance from darkness
experienced by the Majang and experiences and
greetings were shared by the Hoekstras with the
assembled multitude, as well as an account by
Dawit, a Majang who spoke on behalf of the
Majang – all interpreted and translated with the help
of a young Majang named Ashini.
25

From a recent report by Dr. Hoekstra: “Ours was
an unbelievable experience. Solomon Gizaw flew
us all..to Teppi for the celebration…We were
amazed to see thousands of people lining both sides
of the airstrip (between 5 to 10,000 people
estimated to be there)….In the afternoon, we drove
to the city hall, which was packed out with over
2,000 inside and countless numbers unable to get
in.”
“…I felt so unworthy of such love and praise. In
the huge hall, there was beautiful singing and
swaying with the rhythm by the entire assembly.
Mark spoke introducing our group. Several short
speeches were made and then I was asked to speak.
They wanted to know how it was that we came to
Godare to the Majangir. I told them how God had
closed all the other doors and opened this one only.
I told them about the survey, about Lavina and Paul
and my trekking in with six mules, two horses and
many different carriers. I told how we soon made
cassettes and described how interested the people
were to hear. I told of three different knotted
strings that came to us.”
“I told them the Lord had given me two
verses of Scripture to share with them. One, Jesus
saying, “I am the Light of the World. Whoever
follows me will never walk in darkness…” When
they heard this verse, they all clapped for joy. The
other verse was where Jesus said, “I am giving you
a new commandment, that you love one another.
By this all people will know that you are my
disciples.” (John 8:12, John 13:34,35).
“The hotel in Teppi consisted of individual
houses with bed and toilet, separated by trees and
bushes. Each of us brought our own sheet,
pillowcase, mosquito net, drinking water and a
flashlight. Lights went off at 7 p.m. and came on at
7 in the morning.”
“Later that afternoon, we sat in that hotel
area under a huge palm tree-like bush. We ate
from loaves of bread which we dipped in wild
honey. We survived!”
“Numerous visitors stopped by to sit with
us. The emotions brought many tears. It was
unbelievable. Carol had a nice small picture of
Lavina from the memorial. When she showed it to
someone, they automatically burst into uncontrollable
tears. This was true of both me and
women. They obviously loved her deeply. Lavina
had been a model Christian among them.”
“The next day Solomon flew Denny, Sandy,
Carol, Walter Potts, Paul Lindberg, and me over
the Godare and we landed in Gambella in the area
where we had once served over 50 years ago, where
local church leaders came out to meet us. We also
dedicated another 20 Majang Talking Bibles with a
promise of more. It was a rare, rare privilege. So
many reasons to praise God.”
“Mark, Paul, Tim and Curtis went by road
to Godare. What took me 25 men and 17 days to
bring the Land Rover in to Godare, they now did on
an upgraded road in just 3 hours. They said some
1,000 people greeted them and they had a
wonderful worship service where they normally
worship. Mark and Paul both spoke at the service,
Paul was able to speak to them in te Majangir
language. I saw photos of their offering table
overflowing with Ethikopian dollar bills, a man
bringing a chicken and many fruit and vegetables
on the ground. God has done a great work among
them. Mark and Paul met numerous older people
whom I still remember well.”
“It is impossible to find adequate words to
describe this historic event. God gave us the honor
to be the first to tell them about His love in Christ.
We planted the seed but the real growth took place
after we had said our farewell in 1976. Today they
estimate some 26,000 believers, 30 plus pastors and
their own Bethel Majangir Synod. I marvel at what
God has done.”
“At 90 years God enabled me, after 35
years, to return to see what He has done. Words
simply fail to describe it all.”
“Blessings, my love in our Lord Jesus,
Harvey T. Hoekstra”
We gave out 180 Talking Bibles to assembled
church leaders in Teppi Wednesday morning before
flying to Gambela to deliver the remaining 20
Bibles.
It was previously reported (incorrectly) that
Mark broke his ankles. It was actually both of his
heels. On Wednesday, while returning from the
Godare to Teppi, the group stopped by a beautiful
lake. He fell from a height of about 6 feet up,
struck both heels on a rock embedded in the ground
and incurred a severe fracture on the left heel, a
minor fracture on the right. After 7 ½ weeks in a
cast on his right foot, he now has a “boot” and can
begin to put weight on it. Surgery was performed
26

on his left foot March 14, putting his heel back
together with a metal plate and seven screws – that
cast will come off, Lord willing, May 6 at which
time he can begin to put weight on that foot.
Thank you for your prayers on his behalf.
Sandy Hoekstra
At the dedication service – Ashini translates
Paul demonstrates
the Talking Bible
to Peter
Dennis, Carol, Tim, Solomon Gizaw, Harvey, Mark, Walter
Potts, Sandy, Curtis, & Paul Hoekstra
The crowd at
the Teppi
airport
Mark gives a
man the
Talking Bible
at the Godare
Argeem gets
her very own
Talking
Bible
Inside the
large hall at
the
dedication
service in
Teppi
Thank you to Sandy Hoekstra for sharing this
story of their exciting trip to Ethiopia. So
much happened in a short amount of time, and
to condense that into one small article, was not
easy. We appreciate your efforts, Sandy!
Thanks for sharing!!!
27

ESCONDIDO: Calvin Christian School
celebrates 50th with look to future
Dignitaries gather to create time capsule to be
opened in 2061
By GARY WARTH - gwarth@nctimes.com | Posted: Monday,
April 18, 2011 8:10 pm
A student supply kit, calculator and digital
watch are mundane items in 2011, but faculty and
students at Calvin Christian School turned them into
gifts for a future generation Monday.
"It'll be interesting to see what a school supply
box in 2061 looks like," Calvin Christian Superintendent
and Principal Terry Kok said as a small plastic container
containing those and other items was placed in a time
capsule at a ceremony marking the school's 50th
anniversary.
"Will it have pencils, pens, erasers and color
crayons, or will it just be a laptop? Or will laptops be
nonexistent?" Kok asked.
Students from every class at the preschool-12
private Christian school placed items in a safe that will
be buried on the Escondido campus for the next 50
years.
Monday morning's ceremony was attended by
Escondido Mayor Sam Abed, council members Ed Gallo
and Marie Waldron, state Assemblyman Martin Garrick,
R-Carlsbad, and representatives of the offices of county
Supervisor Bill Horn and Rep. Brian Bilbray, R-Solana
Beach.
"If our state had the respect to values and
principles as your school does, we'd be a lot better
shape," Garrick said.
Garrick presented the school with a state
resolution praising Calvin Christian, and Abed presented
a certificate of recognition from the city of Escondido.
"You know, family values have made this
country the greatest country in the world," Abed said.
"Thank you for teaching these kids the family values we
have."
Contributions to the time capsule include such
school-specific items as a cookbook sold as a fundraiser,
a medal from a track meet and a lunch menu.
Teacher Doug Van Solkema contributed a
baseball from a CIF-championship game played by the
Calvin Christian team he coached in 1995.
Others items were broader and were placed
inside with an uncertainty of what a future generation
would make of them.
High school freshman Brock Lusky placed a
Blackberry and disposable cell phone in the time
capsule.
"A very cool thing in 2011," Kok said about the
cell phone. "We'll see about 2061. How will we be
keeping time in 2061 when the new generation doesn't
Calvin Christian School kindergarteners Jaxon Brouwer and
Cooper Saffiote prepare to place their alphabet memory verses
in a time capsule Monday during the Escondido school's 50th
anniversary celebration. (Photo by John Koster - For the North
County Times)
even wear watches?"
One student placed a Popular Science magazine
that featured a cover story about a futuristic rocket train,
while another student contributed Monday's edition of
the North County Times.
"The obvious question is not only will there be a
North County Times, but will we have newspapers, will
we read them, or will we get all our news in a very
different way?" Kok said.
Also at the ceremony was Pat Medendorp, who
began at Calvin Christian in 1970 and is the school's
longest-serving teacher.
"All these houses were not here," she said about
her first year while pointing to a neighborhood behind
the school. "There were orange groves behind there.
There were horses in the pastures. So I could open the
doors and smell blossoms."
Medendorp was one of six teachers at the
school, which now has 35 part- and full-time teachers.
The capacity of the school is 750, and
enrollment this year is about 540, Kok said. Medendorp,
who teaches first grade, said that although parents and
children are more technically savvy these days, little has
changed in the classroom.
"Kids are kids," she said. "Kids still love the
things they did in the 1970s. They know more
technology, of course, but they still love the same things
and laugh at the same things and love to learn."
By staff writer of the North County Times, Gary Warth
(760-740-5410. ) This article was printed in the Share & Care
with his permission.
27.5

On April 8, most of our junior high students
had a half day of school, so we thought it would be a
great time to go bowling! Well, it was a good idea,
but many people had the same idea and the bowling
alley was packed! Due to a misunderstanding with
the bowling alley, we didn’t get the 7 lanes that we
needed, we only had 5 for 35 bowlers! So, some of
our lanes were kind of crowded!!! Regardless of the
crowds, we still had a great time! Many of the kids
chose to have bumpers—so we didn’t see too many
gutter balls either! Some of our
kids are really good bowlers and we
saw many strikes and spares!
Prior to leaving for the
bowling alley, we met in the social
hall and had pizza, soda and jello
cups. We all had plenty to eat!
Rev. Vos shared a devotional with us on GRACE
(God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense).
We had many parents volunteer to drive us to
San Marcos and we had plenty of supervision to keep
us safe. We arrived back at church and had some
snacks and then our parents picked us up and we went
home.
JHYG is a lot of fun and we have a GREAT
group of kids! Be watching for the details for our
next meeting on May 6.
Congregation, please go to the
Information Counter and sign
up to help with the 4th of July
picnic! We need lots of help!
28

On April 17, the GEMS had a busy afternoon/evening! First of all, they
ministered to the Elderly at the Valle Vista Convalescent Home (see article on
next page). Then they participated in the evening service at EURC as a part of
GEMS Sunday! The girls were all adorned in their GEMS t-shirts, scarves and
badges and they recited their GEMS Aim: What does the Lord require of us?
To do justice, to love kindness and to walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8).
They also led the congregation in a responsive reading around their theme:
Feed the Fire. The traditional GEMS song, “Jesus is All the World to Me”
was sung by the congregation along with the GEMS. Any of us who were
Calvinettes years ago, or more recently GEMS, know this beautiful hymn by
heart. The GEMS asked if the evening offering could be taken for the Rafiki
Foundation instead of for the local GEMS club this year. Thank you to each
of the ladies who give of their time to lead the GEMS on Monday afternoons throughout the year. You
are all wonderful role models to these girls and we thank you for your time and your service!
3rd - Angela Vreeken
4th - Elsie Bousema
5th - Cindy Den Boer and Michele Jansma
6th - Elizabeth Brouwer and Carrie Johnsen
7th - Allison Cunningham
8th - Rachel Price
Craft - Maria Lynn Balt
Craft Help - Patty Marcus
Head Counselor - Doreen Broek
29

Gems Invade Valle Vista
On Palm Sunday the Gems spent time
praying with, singing to and having conversations
with the residents of the Valle Vista
Convalescent Home. Valle Vista is always a
difficult place to visit, due to the fact that you see
people suffering from old age. The odors aren`t
pleasant, and sometimes the residents can be
frightening with their behavior. They are our
neighbors.
Young ladies....you blessed those old folks
with your presence, and I`ll bet you enjoyed a
blessing from them as well. You gave them joy!
Matthew 25
“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all
the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne.
32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he
will separate the people one from another as a
shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He
will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
“Then the King will say to those on his right,
‘Come,
you
who
are
blessed
by my
Father;
take your inheritance, the
kingdom prepared for you
since the creation of the
world. 35 For I was
hungry and you gave me
something to eat, I was
thirsty and you gave me
something to drink, I was
a stranger and you
invited me in, 36 I needed
clothes and you clothed
me, I was sick and you
looked after me, I was in
prison and you came to
visit me.’
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see
you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to
drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or
needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in
prison and go to visit you?’
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one
of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
Ron Lockman
30

Building & Grounds-Greg Tucker
Pete Vander Woude
Ron Lockman
Kelly Brouwer
Cliff Vande Vegte
David Roth (non-voting)
Long Range Planning-
John Tiersma
Brent Cooper
Lyle Faber
Steve Howerzyl
Bill Van Iwaarden
Derek Buikema
Education-
Emergency-
Executive-
Fellowship-
Rev. Stephen Donovan
David Roth
Mary Ellen Godfrey
Andy Johnsen
Rev. Josh Van Ee
Jim Jansma Jr.
Wanda Jansma
Joe Ellis
Rachel Ellis
Kristeen Toney
Chris Brouwer
Jim Jansma Sr. (non-voting)
Jim Jansma Sr.
Lyle Faber
Huibert den Boer Sr.
Garret Brouwer
Dave Brouwer
Rev. Vos (non-voting)
Rev. Donovan (non-voting)
Roger Hicks
Louisa Hicks
Duane Koonce
Linda Koonce
Brenda Vos
David Gomes
Jessica Gomes
Internship Program- Rev. Stephen Donovan
David Roth
Huibert den Boer, Sr.
Lord’s Supper-
Santee Property-
Huibert den Boer, Sr.
David Roth
Sandy Roth
Andy Van Die
Joke Van Die
Jim Jansma, Sr.
Garret Brouwer
Doug Brouwer
Arnie Veldkamp
Rick Marcus
Music-
Outreach-
Rev. Phil Vos
Huibert den Boer, Sr.
Garret Brouwer
Elaine Memmelaar
Brent Cooper
Daphne Jasperse
Rachel Memmelaar
Garret Brouwer
Angelo Contreras
Michael Kiledjian
Debby Rau
Henry Waardenburg
Steve Spoelstra
David Roth
Seminary Student Support- Andy Van Die
Steve Spoelstra
Louis Botha
Worship-
Youth Ministry-
Technology-
Rev. Phil Vos
Jim Jansma, Sr.
Lyle Faber
Huibert den Boer, Sr.
Garret Brouwer
Lyle Faber
David Brouwer
Brent Cooper
Duane Koonce
Rev. Stephen Donovan
Jim Broek
Ken Marcus
Huibert den Boer, Jr.
Tiddo den Boer
Luke Faber
Greg Tucker
Specific Needs Short Term- Steve Howerzyl
Pete Vander Woude
David Roth
Heidi Brouwer
Heidi Van Ee

June 11, 2011
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ~ HS Quad area
Delicious Tri-tip Meal served at 11:30 – freewill donation
Also hot dogs for the kids
~ Bring memorabilia to display on Memory Lane ~
Wear your Calvin shirts, hats & colors!
Classic Car Show * Games * Prizes * Trivia
Jumping Bubble * Water Slide
Alumni, Parents, Grandparents, Students,
Faculty and Friends of Calvin Christian
All are invited - Bring the kids!
Please RSVP by June 1, 2011
www.calvinchristianescondido.org
Parents of Alumni: Please let your out-oftown
family members know about this special
event!

MAY OFFERING SCHEDULE
DATE MORNING SERVICES EVENING SERVICE
May 1 General Fund/Building Fund CRWRC-Japan EQ Relief
May 8 General Fund/CCS Tuition Aid Fund Washington D.C., URC
May 15 General Fund/Building Fund Project Philip
May 22 General Fund/CCS Tuition Aid Fund MEANS-Rev. Nollie Malabuyo
May 29 General Fund/Benevolent Fund Alternatives Womens Center
The General Fund offering not only support the ongoing expenses of our local congregation, but also other
ministries such as: W.F.R.C.-Rev. Bill Green, MEANS-Nollie Malabuyo, NKST Sponsorship Program, and Christ URC
(Santee). The deacons ask that everyone support the General Fund with 5% of their income and other causes with
an additional 5% of their income.
DESCRIPTION OF OFFERINGS
CRWRC-JAPAN RELIEF - After a catastrophic earthquake hit east of Honshu, Japan, in the early
morning hours of Friday, March 11, CRWRC is making arrangements with Christian partners on the
ground to provide funds for immediate, emergency aid to earthquake survivors. Please give generously
to help CRWRC save the lives of those affected by these realities of disaster.
WASHINGTON DC URC - Christ Reformed Church, Washington DC is a church plant of the United
Reformed Church.
PROJECT PHILIP This offering is for the ongoing support of placing Bibles and Christian literature in
hospitals, prisons and pregnancy centers. Each Bible and booklet contains a return postage-free card
offering free Bible lessons. Each month about 55 new lessons are sent and about 32 to correct and
sent back with the following lesson.
ALTERNATIVE WOMENS CENTER is our local agency which offers alternatives to abortion for women
facing crisis pregnancies and to support them in their decisions.
MEANS-REV. NOLLIE MALABUYO - MEANS based in Illinois, USA is an international, non-profit,
Christian organization dedicated to sharing the Gospel and helping the needy by partnering with
churches, mission groups, missionaries in East Asia and East Asians worldwide. www.meansusa.org.
MEANS shall serve as a financial bridge between donors in the U.S. and recipients in East Asia and
anywhere that East Asians serve missions worldwide. MEANS shall participate in the training and
encouragement of missionaries in and from East Asia, and senders in the East Asian expatriate
PARKING LOT ATTENDANT SCHEDULE
May 1 AM-Joel Vander Woude PM-Richard Brouwer
May 8 AM-Marv Van’t Land PM-Tiddo den Boer
May 15 AM-Henry Waardenburg
May 22 AM-Rick Marcus
May 29 AM-William de Jong
PM-Lyle Faber
PM-Jim Jansma, Jr.
PM-Orwyn De Boer
32

Crusader Golf Classic
October 1, 2011
New Location
Escondido
Country Club
We are looking for all types of
Sponsors including a title sponsor!
Early Bird
Registration
Deal
12:00 Check In
1:00 Shot Gun start
Format: Four Person Scramble
Watch for more details
In future flyers

Dinner Sponsor(s) – $3000 (can be split/or shared)
Recognition in the evening program
Signage at each dinner table
Recognition on all flyers and registration forms and school website
(Encourage our families to utilize your services)
Dinner reservation for four
Contest Sponsor ‐ $750
Exclusive signage at contest hole (allows your representative to sit at the tee to promote
your service and hand out any marketing materials)
Recognition in the evening program for special contest
Recognition in Calvin’s winter athlete events and school website
(Encourage our families to utilize your services)
Hole Sponsor ‐ $500
Signage at one of the 13 holes (allows your representative to sit at the tee to promote
your service and hand out any marketing materials)
Recognition in evening program
Recognition in Calvin’s winter athlete events and school website
(Encourage our families to utilize your services)
Please call or email Kandi Waardenburg with any questions
regarding sponsorship information.
(760) 735-9296 or email to: kwaardenburg@cox.net
SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION
Company:____________________________________________Address:___________________________________________________
Contact Name:_______________________________________Email Address:_______________________________________________
Which Sponsorship would you like to participate in?____________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Please return completed form and check to:
Calvin Christian High School, 2000 N. Broadway, Escondido, CA 92026
Questions? Contact Darla Lusky at (760) 520-8435 or email : luskygroup@gmail.com

Work wanted:
Graduate of Calvin Christian June 2010
Attended United Truck Driving School (restricted B license with tank and air brake endorsement)
Looking for any type of work
Moving
Mowing lawn and weed wiping ( I have my own equipment)
Warehouse work
Labor work
Driver
Open to your needs or job openings
Seth Spoelstra call at
Providence Christian College seeks an Admissions Counselor
beginning summer 2011 to join the Admissions team at this exciting time in
the college’s history. Applicants should have a college degree and be able to
enthusiastically articulate a Reformed perspective as it relates to Christian
higher education. The qualified applicant should also have superior
interpersonal skills and enjoy working with high school students. This
position requires travel. Those interested in applying should send a letter
of interest and resume to Larissa Kamps, Director of Enrollment
Management at larissa.kamps@providencecc.net.
The Institute for Biblical Counseling and Discipleship presents “families shaped by grace” on June 23-
25 at New Life Presbyterian Church in Escondido. A list of speakers, registration forms, and
conference topics are on the flyer which are located on the bulletin board in the foyer.
Following the
evening service on
May 15, there will
be a “BRIEF”
program celebrating the 10
year anniversary of both
pastors. Please join us for
cake and coffee in
the Social Hall
following the
program.
Copyright © Steve Phelps and Christianity Today
International/BuildingChurchLeaders.com.
Used with permission.
35

GREETERS
Main North Entrance
May 1 9:30 Lyn Long & Harriet Clark
6:00 Andy & Joke Van Die
May 8 9:30 Adriaan & Vivian Pruyssers
6:00 Cliff & Arlene Vande Vegte
May 15 9:30 Roy & Margie Spoelstra
6:00 Dennis & Dorothy Roberts
May 22 9:30 Steve & Sharon Spoelstra
6:00 Mark & Rachel Memmelaar
May 29 9:30 John & Bianca Tiersma
6:00 Arlan & Elaine Memmelaar
South Courtyard Entrance
May 1 9:30 Ken & Bonnie Marcus
6:00 Pete & Cyndi Vande Woude
May 8 9:30 Arie & Thelma Roest
6:00 Rev. Phil & Brenda Vos
May 15 9:30 Dave & Sandy Roth
6:00 Henry & Kandi Waardenburg
May 22 9:30 Dan & Barb Ter Horst
6:00 Jerry & Carol Galloway
May 29 9:30 Greg & Cobie Tucker
6:00 Henry & Dawn Doorn
Please take note to which location you have been assigned. Remember to show up at least
15 minutes before the service. If you cannot greet on your assigned day, please find
someone to take your place. Thank you to all of you who so willingly greet us every
Sunday!
HOST FAMILIES
May 1
May 8
May 15
May 22
May 29
Jeff & Susan Boersma
Roger & Louisa Hicks
Chris & Heidi Brouwer
Jim & Wanda Jansma
John & Bianca Tiersma
36

May 1
9:30 BJ Bodwell
Heidi Van Ee
Lori Senti
Michael Vander Woude
Adrianna Vander Stelt
SS:
Kris Brouwer
Cindy den Boer
6:00 Roy & Margie Spoelstra
Michael Senti
May 15
9:30 Jodi Jackson
Carla Brouwer
Jennifer Van Dam
Abby Katje
Rachel den Boer
SS:
Rachel Ellis
Barb Van Solkema
6:00 Kelly Brouwer
Kandi Waardenburg
Rachel Brouwer
May Laundry: Jodi Jackson
May 8
9:30 Theodore Botha
Angela Vreeken
Dori Hoekstra
Elizabeth Oeverman
Joni Hillebrecht
SS:
Cindy Kluey
Linda Marcus
6:00 Audrey Brouwer
Grace Brouwer
May 22
9:30 Margie Boer
Jo May Vanderspek
Garneth Faber
Austin de Jong
Jamie Broek
SS:
Susan Boersma
Thelma Roest
6:00 Doreen Broek
Elizabeth Brouwer
Kara Brouwer
May 29
9:30 Cyndi Vander Woude
Patty Marcus
Theresa Veldkamp
Trevor de Jong
Julia den Boer
No Sunday School
6:00 Elsie Bousema
Maria Lynn Balt
Alex Brouwer
May 1
May 8
May 15
May 22
May 29
Little Lambs
Jodi Jackson
Theodore Botha
Heidi Brouwer
Audrey Brouwer
Sharon Jacobi
37

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Rev. Andrew & Millie Cammenga May 1 54 years
Dwayne & BJ Bodwell May 6 22 years
David & Jessica Gomes May 9 2 years
Curtis &Karlee Hoekstra May 9 2 years
John & Jane Waardenburg May 11 62 years
Dennis & Dorothy Roberts May 11 43 years
Dick & Gertie Dykstra May 13 64 years
Koos & Joanne Brouwer May 15 47 years
Greg & Cobie Tucker
May 18 32 years
Mary & Karl Rousseau May 18 36 years
Richard & Kelly Brouwer May 19 22 years
Elko & Clara Brouwer May 20 56 years
Dan & Sherlene Pincelli May 23 36 years
Jim & Doreen Broek
May 23 25 years
Rev. Steve & Kathryn Oeverman May 27 16 years
Rob & Kim Parker
May 27 16 years
Toast at Weddings
To the groom: Early in your marriage you will find it difficult to get the last word in any
discussion. With time, though, you will learn how to always get the last two words in every
discussion -- just make sure the words are "Yes dear".
Congratulations on the termination of your isolation and may I express an appreciation of your
determination to end the desperation and frustration which has caused you so much
consternation in giving you the inspiration to make a combination to bring an accumulation to
the population.
38

MAY 2011 Birthday Calendar
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1
Marge Faber
2
Adrienne Donovan
3 4 5
Jacob Brouwer
6
Annaliese Oeverman
7
Austin de Jong
Sharon Houtman
8
Jennifer Ferri
Vivian Pruyssers
9 10
Hunter Kiledjian
Ryan Botha
11 12
Noah Carranza
13
Sandy Kats
14
Brooke Brouwer
Greg Tucker
Huibert den Boer
15
Klaas De Haan
Margie Spoesltra
16
Abe Marcus
17
Lance Faber
18 19
Jim Bennetts
20 21
Michael Houtman
Theresa Broers
22
Theodore Botha
23
Elaine Memmelaar
Gerrit Hofstee
24
Carly Donovan
Etta de Jong
Julianna Cooper
25 26
Henry Wybenga
27 28
29
Ethan Brouwer
30
Fred Troost
Joel Broek
Judy Van’t Land
Maxine Mc Farland
31
Jacqueline Balt
Happy Birthday to everyone!
Indicates a special birthday!

MAY CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2011
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1
First Sunday Coffee
# 1
2
3:00 GEMS
3
9:00 Project Philip
8:00 Council
4
7:30 Y.P. UNCO
5
9:30 Coffee Break
in the Social Hall.
6
7:00 JHYG
7
8:00 Saturday
Morning Women’s
Bible Study
8-12 AP TESTING IN THE UPPER ROOM -FROM CALVIN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (quiet please!)
8
Pulpit Exchange
With Santee URC
AM-Rev. Mike Brown
PM-Rev. Vos
9 8:15 MIT in the
Council Room.
7-8:30-CCS Teacher
Appreciation
Breakfast in the S.H.
8-12 AP TESTING
10
6:45-9:30 Cadets
will go to Solid Rock
11 8-9 CCS K
visiting day /11:00 Y
of Y at
Meadowbrook.
7:30 Y.P Kajobe Can
Can
8-12 AP TESTING
12
9:30 Coffee Break
Brunch
13
CCS H.S. Early
Dismissal
14
8:00 Men’s Bible
Study
15 4:00 Valle Vista
Pastor’s Anniversary
Celebration
following the PM
service—with
refreshments
16
3:00 GEMS
17
9:00 Project Philip
7:00 Consistory
18
8:30 CCS Mother’s
Club in the Social
Hall
7:30 Y.P. Freshman
Class Night
19 20 21
22
Preparatory Sunday
Last Sunday School
and Catechism
7:30 Y.P Leadership
meeting
23 24 25
Young People go see
the musical
CCS High School Musical - 7:30 pm
26 27
Calvin Christian
High School’s Fine
Arts Awards Night
CCS mini-Olympics
28
Westminster
Seminary ‘s
Graduation
CCS High School Musical - 7:30 pm
29
AM-Communion
30
MEMORIAL DAY
NO SCHOOL
31
9:00 Project Philip
6:00 CCS Outdoor
Concert Band &
HS Choir
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer
and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will
guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7
40