Summer 2008 newsletter - Rehoboth Christian School

Summer 2008Vigorously Academic • Beautifully Diverse • Thoroughly ChristianGraduation 2008For the first time in nearly 20 years, Rehoboth celebratedits high school graduation on its own campus, rather than at GallupHigh School’s auditorium across town. Thirty-five graduates and theirrelatives and friends swarmed into the school’s new gymnasium, fillingalmost every one of the bleachers’ seating for 1250, as well as floor seatsfor the grayer and wiser bunch.Steve Weeda, a former RCS graduate, current RCS socialstudies teacher, and former boys’ basketball team coach, was selectedas the speaker for the ceremony, honoring his 14 years of dedication toRehoboth before he leaves for a two-year stint teaching in Indonesia.After passing out paper and pencils to the graduates sitting before him“because it just felt right,” Weeda spoke to them about freedom andcourage—two important words for them over the next few years.“Freedom is one of the things that I like about Rehoboth,” hesaid. “It’s not behind fences…I like the freedom that can be given in asmall school.”Weeda then quoted the class verse from Joshua 1:9, “Be strongand courageous. Do not be afraid…” and turned his attention tocourage, how it had been taught to these graduates throughout allaspects of their life at Rehoboth, from sports competitions to seniorpresentations. “I challenge anyone to find a school that teaches courageto a higher percentage of students,” he said, then moved on to discuss ahealthy fear crucial for a Christian life—the “fear and wonder and aweof a perfect God.”Jenny Lee, the class valedictorian and 2-year exchange studentfrom Korea, also spoke about fear in her address, specifically about howafraid at first she had been coming to Rehoboth and America in general,surrounded by a new culture, new people, and new food.. . . Continued on Page 15

“Unto the 3 rd and 4 th Generation”by Ron Polinder, Executive DirectorThat phrase from the Bible has long intrigued me. As a youngsterin 3 rd CRC of Lynden, WA, I heard it every Sunday as the 10commandments were read. It was kind of ominous, as it spoke toGod’s discipline being extended to “children’s children.” Though, whatfollows is wonderfully glorious in its description of God’s love beingextended to “a 1000 generations of those who love me and keep mycommandments.”For our purposes here, let us use with joy the phrase “unto the 3 rdand 4 th generation,” because it describes the length of time that manyNative families have been Christians. The span of the church in ourregion goes back to the late 19 th century, and in the case of the CRCmissionaries, to 1896. God in His goodness and grace, through thoseearly missionary efforts, called Native people to the foot of the cross andto His Kingdom.And they haven’t left—some of these families go back to the early1900’s. This reality sinks in deeper each passing year, as one comes toknow Rehoboth families. It is my custom to enjoy probing when andhow our families have come to the “Jesus Way.” And wonderful storiescome forth, of a grandma who went to Rehoboth up to the 3 rd grade,or a missionary who used to come by the hogan and share the gospel,or a young man who went to “religious instruction” classes at the BIAboarding schools, led by a CRC teacher.It is a story of incredible faithfulness of a church, a denomination,which was steadfast in their covenant with Native people. Whentimes were tough, they did not walk away! They didn’t quit! Many amissionary, Anglo and Native alike, served for decades in ministry. Andit is splendid fruit that continues to show up, yea even at RehobothChristian School, because of the seed that was planted through some dryyears. The harvest is still coming home.These wonderful stories must be told, which is why you have seen JamesSchaap’s name and picture in these pages. Schaap, a distinguishedprofessor at Dordt College in Sioux Center, IA, is well-known for hiswriting and story-telling. More recently, he has become attracted to theNative American story, both in the Heartland of Iowa and Dakota, butalso the New Mexico story. Thus, we have engaged Schaap to interviewand write stories.It has been my privilegeto accompany Schaap,make some introductions,facilitate a bit, and thenleave him alone. But Ihear enough to get morefascinated still by theamazing stories of God’sfaithfulness and thelongevity of the church inNative country. We hopein the next year or so toproduce at least a booklet,if not more, of NativeChristian families whohave been faithful untothe 3 rd and 4 th generation.To give you a taste of our project, we are using an excerpt of Ed Carlisle’s10 page autobiography (see page 4) Ed, who along with his 1958classmates, was honored at this year’s High School graduation ceremonyfor his 50 th year anniversary. Ed served on the Rehoboth ChristianSchool Board for 17 years, remains one of our best encouragers, andenjoyed watching this year his granddaughter, Alex, become a Rehobothgraduate. The fuller story is available on our website (www.rcsnm.org/alumni.cfm) and it is merely representative of more families who haveexperienced the blessing of a Rehoboth Christian education.What you read in this issue is a continuing account, “a long obediencein the same direction,” of the commitment of Christian people, Nativeand others, who have now served the Lord for decades. Virtually everyone of our readers in some way is also part of this same story, throughtheir prayers, their financial contributions, volunteering, paying tuition,or attending school functions. And we close by abiding and trusting inGod’s Word—that these 3 or 4 generations will carry on for a thousandgenerations, or until the Lord returns.Ron PolinderExecutive Director2

Bea Bosscher 1912-2008Beatrice Bosscher was born January 14, 1912. Not soincidentally, she was the first Anglo baby born in the Rehobothhospital. She died March 9, 2008. She was the daughterof Jacob and Nellie Bosscher. Jacob Bosscher was thesuperintendent of Rehoboth, venturing out West in 1909.As a child, Bea attended the mission school for her elementaryeducation. She had two years of high school in California and2 years at the Gallup High School. She had some college workin New Mexico and eventually graduated from Calvin College.Bea worked as an elementary teacher for Rehoboth from l930-31 and 1933-35.She later taught at Bellflower, CA Christian School where shemet Fred Lightenberg, also a teacher there. They were marriedOct. 19, l945, following World War II. Fred became a pastorin the Reformed Church in America and served churches inCasnovia, MI, South Blendon, MI, Muskegon, MI and ThreeOaks, MI where he died on Jan. 7, l966. They had one son,Jack, born Feb. 17, l947 while Fred was attending WesternSeminary in Holland, MI. Beatrice taught at Rehoboth,Bellflower and later, part-time in Three Oaks, MI.After Fred Lightenberg died, she moved to Grandville, MI andtaught in the Grandville Public School system until she retired.She eventually married Nelson VanderKolk on July 15, l969.He died December 13, l993.Rehoboth Student & Teacher1911- Jacob Bosscher taking a load of furniture fromthe mission to Toadlena. The wagon became mired inthe mud and it was quite a trip.This is the Bosscher family at Rehoboth. Mr. andMrs. Bosscher in the middle back row. Childrenfrom oldest to youngest: Beatrice, Helen, Arthur,Jacob, Ada, Robert, Harry, Howard, and David.3

Ed “Cowboy” Carlisle: In His Own WordsA Perspective on Rehoboth Mission SchoolMy grandfather was a traditional healer who practiced the “BeautyWay and Life Way” ceremonies. Grandpa told me that I wasgoing to Rehoboth because the people there live the real “Beauty Way.”My grandfather had become close friends with Rev. AndrewVanderwagon, one of the founders of the Rehoboth Mission. He sat onthe ground with them and ate their food—roast mutton or mutton stew,tortillas or fried bread, green beans and squash and sometimes venison.Both men were quiet, friendly, gentle, and kind, and they developedmutual understanding and respect. In contrast, some of the missionarieswho followed were demanding, intolerant and hostile toward Navajobeliefs and practices. But my grandfather told the family that life is hard,and we must have a prayer on their lips wherever they go.My father had attended the Rehoboth School through thesixth grade and encouraged me to get as much education as possible,frequently challenging me to work to improve schools, health care,roads, water supplies on the reservation, and to urge the people to takebetter care of the land.When I entered Rehoboth, each day began and ended withdevotions--Bible reading, interpretation and prayer. Every Sundaymorning, Rev. Abel Poel began the worship service by reading the TenCommandments and summarizing: “Thou shalt love the Lord yourGod with all your heart, with all your mind and with all your strength.The second is like unto it, ‘thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.’” Hebegan the evening service by reading the Apostles Creed. The sermonscovered some aspect of the broad divisions.I was taught, by example, that each of us must consider ourroles in the context of our gifts. Some people have the intelligence, thecapability to learn complex subjects and to conduct individual researchor highly-skilled operations. While others, maybe through culturalteachings or bad experiences, may faint at the sight of blood. On theother hand, some of us do better at conducting routine functions,like administration and management, where the programs, policies,procedures and limitations are well-defined and organized to be easilylearned, places where the work is repetitive.When I was in the fourth grade, I was assigned to make beadedbelts. Many kids made beautiful belts and other artistic things thatsold quickly; but I was raised on a farm, and while I was familiarwith farm and livestock work, I did not know a thing about art. So Iwas reassigned to do janitor work for Mr. Jacob Bosscher, the SchoolSuperintendent. He explained what he wanted done, how he wanted itdone; he showed me the tool closet and told me I could leave wheneverI finished. I never had any problems there and he had me do a lot oferrands. He taught me fun things, like how to negotiate prices withNavajos who provided meat and any other things. He said the way tosucceed is to treat people fairly, be friendly and you will get what youwant with mutual respect.4Four generations of the Carlisle family havebeen taught at Rehoboth Christian School.Ed’s father attended Rehoboth till the sixthgrade. Ed is a 1958 graduate, his wife Dorthy(Bowman) followed a year later in 1959. Their 3children graduated from Rehoboth in the 1980’s,and their granddaughter, Alex Carlisle, justgraduated last month.Ed went on to receive a law degree from theUniversity of New Mexico and careered as apublic administrator for the Bureau of IndianAffairs.From this experience, I learned not to judge people bystereotyping and if you want someone to do something, to tell themwhat, how, where and when you want things done, and leave themalone unless they ask for or need further direction and to give themother interesting things to do for variety and development.Teaching for life, at Rehoboth, came from all people and subjects.In preparing His disciples, Jesus provided on-the-job training and byexample, like giving them the Lord’s Prayer as a model. In sendingthem out on the Great Commission, he told them that they would beridiculed, hated and even killed and suffer many trials and tribulations.Therefore, he told them to pray for “whatever your needs, your graciousand merciful heavenly Father is willing and able to give what you need,if you pray in my name.”

We were taught in Sunday School that “we are our brothers’keeper.” Around 1952, on a cold and windy spring Sunday evening, theRev. Peter Eldersveld, the Christian Reformed Radio Minister, taughtus how to love by preaching to us from I Corinthians 13 about themeaning of love itself. I will never forget that sermon.In U.S. History, we learned about the U.S. Constitution andhad to memorize President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.Several years ago, I had an opportunity to visit the battlefield atGettysburg, the various positions of the Confederate and Union Armies,the battle sites, the weapons and record of their casualties. Throughoutmy career, I have visited the battlefields of the various Indian Wars, sothat today I value the Constitution and the sacrifices that were and arebeing made to perpetuate freedom.In high school literature, we did Julius Caesar, a play by WilliamShakespeare. Mark Anthony’s speech about the consequences of publiclife and abuses of power has stayed with me ever since: “I come to buryCaesar, not to praise him;/ The evil that men do lives after them; /Thegood is oft interred with their bones.”In music, we learned childhood songs like “Jesus Loves Me” andlater hymns, Negro spirituals, some old love songs and classics of theages, such as “The Hallelujah Chorus” - one cannot help but be movedby the words, be inspired with hope, and be compelled to worship theLord of Lords and King of Kings, the Prince of Peace and EverlastingFather.It was always a delight to hear the singing and harmony of Dr.Louis Bos, Art Bosscher, Ed Berkompas, and Roland Kamps. Many ofus remember Miss Marie Vande Weide as the mother for hundreds ofboys, while Miss Dora Hofstra kept hundreds of girls in line from theiradmirers.Bill Hoekstra was everyone’s friendly cook, who had a friendlysmile, warm handshake for everyone and paid off his helpers withapples, bananas, oranges, cake or cookies and a healthy warm meal foreveryone.Roland Kamps was our teacher, counselor, coach, principal,mentor, disciplinarian who was willing to help with a plan to correct anymischief, and was our friend then, now and plans to be in the future. Asa dutiful wife, Ruth Kamps, was always our cheerleader.Mrs. Louis Bos held the baton for all choirs and choruses:“enunciate, enunciate clearly, people, so your audience can understandyou. Think of the words - you have to bring powerful messages!” sheused to say.The Industrial crew - Art Bosscher, Ed Berkompas, Juke DenBleyker, Tully James and Ted Tibboel-- taught us how to build andmaintain facilities.There were many others who influenced and enriched our lives.The Rehoboth people did as they said: they focused their teaching onthe Bible, they educated us for life, and they showed us the Way, theTruth and the Life. It is written, “Ask and you shall receive.” We alsoneed to remember that the corollary: “To whom much has been given;much shall be expected.” This is also what I learned through allmy years: There are multitudes of opportunities for everyone.“Bless the Lord, oh my soul and forget not all his benefits.”I am always humbled by what I learned at Rehoboth and willforever be grateful to the wonderful people who made it andcontinue to make it possible. I learned how great our needs reallyare and how to think constructively and to be constructive.To Rehoboth, many thanks.This condensed story of Ed Carlisle’s hasmany more pages. To read more from Ed“Cowboy” Carlisle go to www.rscnm.organd click on “Alumni”Ed “Cowboy” Carlisle, far left, on the 1957 RehobothBasketball team.5

High School Mission: By Kevin RuthvenThe Tarahumara ChurchThis spring, during our Student Alternative Curriculum (SAC)week, for the third consecutive year, we were invited and honored tobring a group of Rehoboth students down to Creel, Mexico (about 8hours south of El Paso, TX) to join and encourage local believers whoare serving and ministering among the Tarahumara Indians.We were hosted by YWAM (Youth With a Mission), aworldwide ministry devoted to raising up fruitful disciples. Thisparticular YWAM base is very devoted to the Tarahumara church. Oneof the Tarahumara villages they have been doing a lot of work in is SanLuis Majimachi. For the third year in a row we had a chance to visitthe church there, share some songs and testimonies, and learn moreabout the work of God that has been takingplace there. This year we had a chance to hearthe testimony of Jose Luis, who is now amonga group of believers who are translating theBible into Tarahumara. Jose grew up in SanLuis MajiMachi, living in a cave with his family(many Tarahumara families still live in cavestoday). He first heard the gospel when he was ayoung man and being told that it was the Wordof God he began to crave for understanding.Now as a believer, he is committed to helping hispeople and family understand the Word of God.The majority of our time, however, hasbeen spent with Marcos, a Tarahumara pastor.Marcos is an amazing man of God, who hasallowed his life to be consumed with the task of reaching his people withthe gospel. He has a genuine love that has consistently challenged andencouraged our hearts in the Lord. This year he brought us to the smallvillage of Wesarochi. Four years ago he passed a spring of water higherup in the mountain from this village and prayed that God would openup a way for water to be brought from this spring to the village. So ourtime was spent beginning this water project, digging out the spring andhauling sand so that cement could be mixed to build a dam around thisspring and also to lay a foundation for a water tank that will be placedat a central location for the families of the village. We were also able tomake Navajo burgers for the village, do a cultural presentation and showthe “Jesus” film in Tarahumara which totally captivated the attentionof all the families that attended. It was an exciting opportunity as thiswas the first time that the people of this village had seen a movie, andeven more exciting was that it was the first time they had ever heard thewhole gospel.These mission trips are special for several of reasons.First, of the estimated 80,000 Tarahumara Indians, there are veryfew Christians, some statistics say as little as three to four hundred.Therefore, for us to be able to bring down a group of Native American6believers can be a greatencouragement tothe few TarahumaraChristians that we havebeen honored to beable to serve alongside of and learn from.Second, to be Indian in Mexico means to be degraded anddiscriminated against. Often times the Tarahumara people are refusedmedical care and other services because they are Indian. Many storeseven refuse to sell their goods to them. Also, the Tarahumara childrenare scorned if they speak their native language in the schools theyattend. As a result, they are very leery of andclosed to foreigners…especially those who arewhite. However, they call Native Americans thesame thing they call themselves. We have foundover the past three years that the Tarahumarapeople are very curious and interested in learningand meeting the Navajo and Zuni young peoplethat have been a part of our teams. We havehad the opportunity each year to have studentsdo cultural presentations, prepare Navajo tacos,and to share testimonies of what Christ hasdone in their lives. Just our presence alone is anencouragement to the Tarahumara people. It’sour prayer that the Tarahumara people will seeand recognize their worth, understanding notonly that they have been made in the image of God, but also of His lovefor them as demonstrated on the cross.It’s always my prayer that this trip will give the students a visionfor serving the Lord among their own people, and for the world at large.It’s such a blessing for me to watch our students spend time with a manlike Marcos, whose love for his people and for the gospel is so sacrificial,giving, and sincere. Each year the students return home wanting toreach out to their own people and families in a way that resemblesMarcos’ passion for his people. And regarding the world at large, thistrip demonstrates the amazing opportunity and the doors that areopen to Native American people to be a part of the Great Commissionworldwide. There is a need and a calling forNative American people to become missionariesto other tribes and cultures.Kevin Ruthven is a Bibleteacher, librarian, and chapelleader for Rehoboth.

Nationally RecognizedAuthor Visits RehobothAuthor Hampton Sides drew a crowd of nearly 200 into the RehobothChurch to sign, discuss, and defend his latest book “Blood and Thunder.”Centered in the Southwest on the historical figure of Kit Carson,Hampton Sides attempted to show an unbiased account of the legendary figurethat is viewed as a hero to some and a villain to others.Unsurprisingly, many in the Southwest carry resentment and disdain forKit Carson, who at times had mercilessly slaughteredand ultimately subdued the Navajo tribe.When the question & answer portion of theforum arrived, Mr. Sides was asked some difficultquestions concerning how he had negativelyportrayed Navajos, as well as possibly honoringKit Carson too much. He answered the questionsadeptly and graciously, often insisting that the badmust be told with good, and that he did his very bestto be fair to both the Navajo and Kit Carson.In the end, all greatly applauded and appreciatedhis appearance.Hampton Sides lives in Santa Fe, and is theauthor of the national best seller “Ghost Soilders.”To read more about Hampton Side’s visit to Rehoboth go towww.rcsnm.org and click “Rehoboth In The News.”Maria HoelscherMemorial EndowedScholarshipA generous donor recently started the MariaHoelscher Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Thisscholarship was started in memory of Maria, who inApril of 2006 died in an automobile accident. Mariawas an exchange student from Germany who greatlytouched Rehoboth life with her gracious spirit andsunny smile. In 2007 the Rehoboth Choir traveledto Germany for their “Tour of Hope” in honor ofMaria and her family.This scholarship will be given to highschool girls who demonstrate a financial need,who participate in choir, study a foreign language,display a zest for life, are exchange students, orhave an interest forinternational studies.If you areinterested in giving tothis scholarship pleasecall 505-726-9621, orwrite Alan Pearson atapearson@rcsnm.orgRehoboth High School Students in Washington D. C.Months of fundraising finally paid off for 10 Rehoboth Studentson March 30 when they flew to Washington D.C. for 7 days withthe CloseUp program. This is the first time for Rehoboth studentsto attend CloseUp, a nationally recognized educator of Civics inWashington D.C.Highlights of the trip included an extensive interview withCongressmen Steve Pearce (who also is currently running for U.S.Senator) with C-Span cameras rolling, a trip to the SmithsonianMuseum of the American Indian (9 of the 10 students who attendedare Native American), and a sneak peek at a new attraction in D.C.dedicated to freedom of the Press and the news media, the Newseum.The students also enjoyed classes on legislation and lobbying,current issues and a debate on current issues between a Conservativeand a Liberal. Special thanks to the following businesses and individualswho made this trip possible: HomeCare Options, Navajo NationSpeaker Lawrence Morgan, Indian Capital Distributing, ArtsCo,Kellogg Foundation, Mr. and Mrs. Joel VanderKooi, Mr. and Mrs.Stephen Weeda, Rehoboth Red Mesa Foundation, Max BighorseEnterprises, Basha’s in Crownpoint, New Horizons Transport, ArvisoConstruction, and Ms. Dee Logterman.7

Class of 2008Stephany AshleyQuote: “Know all the thingsthat make you who you are.”Aspirations: To study Nursing atan undecided college.Isaiah Baldwin-LewisActivities: Track and PumpingIronAspirations: To attend DevryUniversity in Phoenix to studyComputers and Electronics.Byron BegayActivities: Student Council, rockclimbingAspirations: To attend theUniversity of New Mexico(UNM) and major in Education.Abram BenallyQuote: “With great powercomes great responsibility.”Aspirations: To attend MesaCommunity College and majorin Criminal Justice.Anders BergActivities: Soccer and skiingAspirations: To attend UNMand major in Business.Tyler BosticActivities: Skating, Soccer,Reading, Line RiderAspirations: To attend UNMnext year and major in Art.Val BurrolaActivities: SoftballAspirations: To attendNorthwestern College and majorin social work.Alex CarlisleQuote: “Shoot for the moon.Even if you miss you’ll landamong the stars.”Aspirations: To attend NewMexico Sate (NMSU) next yearin their Pre-Veterinary program.Cameron CarrollActivities: Playing music, beingwith my friends.Aspirations: To attend NMSUnext year and major inArchitecture.Hannah CheeQuote: “Two Road diverged ina wood and I took the one leasttrodden.” - Robert FrostAspirations: To pursue a careerin Music Education at Calvincollege.Missy ClicheeQuote: “Be strong andcourageous...for the Lord yourGod will be with you where everyou go.” Joshua 1:9Aspirations: To attend theUniversity of Kansas forNursing.Tiffany DuncanActivities: Soccer and NHSAspirations: To attend NorthernArizona University and major inDental Hygiene.Lesley EldridgeActivities: Basketball, Track,Soccer, Ropes CourseAspirations: To attend DordtCollege to study Pre-PhysicalTherapy and minor in Businessor Art History.Lia HolwerdaQuote: “Find what you love,love what you find.”Aspirations: To attendNorthern Arizona Universityand major in Nursing.Francesca JarvisonQuote: “Live your life to thefullest, love with all your heart, andlaugh as though no one is there.”Aspirations: To studyElementary Education atUNM.Jarrod JoeQuote: “Education is the ladder.Take it.” - Chief ManuelitoAspirations: He plans to attendNorthern Arizona Universityand study Architecture.

E.J Colton JohnActivities: Football, NationalHonor Society, rockclimbing,playing guitarAspirations: To get a career inComputers and Technology.Nicole JohnnyQuote: “Catch the trade windsin your sails. Explore, Dream,Discover.”- Mark TwainAspirations: To study Psychologyat Azusa Pacific University.Clarissa JohnsonQuotes; “I love you, you need ahug.”Aspirations; She plans tostudy Education at UNM.Josiah JonesActivities: BasketballAspirations: To attend NMSUand major in Engineering andTechnology.Marie JonesFavorite RCS Memory: MexicoTripsAspirations: To attend ApolloCollege and studying Nursing.Beth KempkesActivities: Soccer, Choir andBandAspirations: To attend UNMand major in Nursing. Toeventually be a Pediatrician.Jenny LeeActivities: Snowboarding andSingingAspirations: To attend trinitycollege in Connecticut and studyEconomics. To someday becomea US Congress Woman.Ian McLaughlinFavorite RCS memory: Band andChoir ToursAspirations: To attend AzusaPacific University to study Businessor Literature. To be a bookstoreowner.Kyle MillerActivities: Playing BasketballAspirations: Currentlyundecided on college plans.Jacelyn NatonabahQuote: “Don’t quote me onthis!”Aspirations: To attend UNMand major in Pre-Med.Timothy NozieQuote: “Never turn away fromGod, He is always there.”Aspirations: To attend MesaCommunity college to studyNutrition and Personal Training.Rebecca OrtegaQuote: “It’s good to be me.”Aspirations: To attend theAlbuquerque Art School to learnmore about Art and GraphicDesign.Jacob PhillipsActivities: Track, Pumping IronAspirations: To join theMarines.Casey SmithQuote: “ To succeed in yourquest you must do your best”Aspirations: To attend UNMand major in either Business orPre-Med.Valentina TomQuote: “ When all are thinkingthe same, then no one is actuallythinking.”Aspirations: To attendDartmouth College.Nicolette TrujilloQuotes; “Intelligence pluscharacter- that is the goal oftrue education.” -Martin LutherKing Jr.Aspirations: To attend UNM tostudy Business.Shawn WasetaQuote: “Never forget where youcome from, Alwaysremember who you are.”Aspirations: To attend theUniversity of New Mexico tostudy Radiology.Scott WilliamsFavorite RCS Memory: Theawesome friends I’ve made, thelaughs, the fun in those years.Aspirations: Undecided onfuture plans.Dustin WyattActivities: Band and ChoirAspirations: Stay healthy andlive everyday to its fullest. Tobecome a Physical Therapist.Douglas YazzieActivities: Soccer, Basketball andArtAspirations: To own a customcar shop/dealership.

On the Road with the Rehoboth Choirby Dr. James SchaapWhen aging teachers get pooped, they’ll sometimes grab a hugebreath and say things like, “Well, at least it keeps you young,” itmeaning working with kids. Even though this old teacher has “workedwith kids” for just about forty years, I’m not always sure that oldline holds much water. Not long ago, I felt ancient, withered, shellshocked--justplain wiped out.For several days I traveled along with Rehoboth’s incredible highschool choir. One day, the kids and their marvelous leaders did threeassemblies in two elementary schools on the Rosebud Reservation--three school assemblies BEFORE noon. Just watching them hold thosekids’ attention through the magical musical shenanigans made me feellike a dishrag. And then this: the moment they were through--evenbefore they had lunch!— in the gym at St. Francis, one of the kidspicked up a basketball and a dozen of them started playing ball—that’sright, shooting hoops.After four days with those kids, I swear I’m not a minuteyounger. It took me two full days of total collapse to feel as if the shipof my state had been somehow righted.But I loved it.One night, at a little church in Mission, South Dakota, beforethe concert, the pastor told me that recent deaths of two young peoplehad added to the incredible suicide rate among the Rosebud Sioux—higher there than almost anywhere in the nation. Just incredible.The concert that night, like all the others, was electric. Whenit wasn’t haunting in its beauty, it exploded in excitement, every lastminute perfectly lit by smiles on the Rehoboth kid’s faces, smiles aswide as the Dakota reservation sky.When it was over, the pastor, who’s been preaching at thatchurch for a decade, couldn’t stop praising the Lord for the testimonyhe’d just heard, just couldn’t stop. He told the Rehoboth kids he wasn’tsure whether they really understood what they’d done with all that joythey created, what their joy might mean to the kids that night, andthe hundreds they would be singing for the next day. That pastor justcouldn’t stop praising the Lord--achorus of Amens, an echoing rollof triumphant hallelujahs.I’m not Lakota and I’m notfrom the Rosebud, so I won’t eventry to speak for the audiences. I’lljust speak for me: to hear thosekids sing out God’s praise like theydid put a fire in me. I don’t ownthe adjectives to describe the joythose young people brought totheir audiences—or any of them.I have not been as thrilled, to thecore of my soul, in a long time, asI was by those Rehoboth kids.Some people say that in our post-doctrinal age, a time whenpeople are maybe more “spiritual” than they’ve been, but sometimes notparticularly “religious” (there’s a difference); a time when folks searchfor meaning but may not look too diligently in churches. The futureof evangelism, of bringing people to the Lord, may well lie, simply, inoffering beauty to a yearning world. What may bring people to belief inGod almighty may not be reason or truth or even well-honed doctrine,but, in a gray world, the brilliance of a rainbow.By way of music and stories and sheer fun, Rehoboth kidsspread voluminous beauty wherever they went. A rainbow is what I sawin that church in Mission, SD, and in every school those kids sang. Arainbow, beauty from the Lord.“Hallelujah”, that Lakota pastor said, over and over again.“Yeah”, this old man said, trying to get his breath. “Amen andamen.”10

Giving=Graduates: A Century Old EquationWe gave a blessed send-off to 35 seniors this year – as they steppedforward to receive diplomas, each looked so ready to devote the“strength of their youth” to the service of their Master. The support offamily, friends and faculty has upheld them through their school years,and now will bear them into the future.Rehoboth has been educating youngsters for more than a century, andevery graduating class provides a revelation of God moving in our world.The students making up the Class of ’08, 18 boys and 18 girls, are nodifferent. At this writing, nine out of 10 of them plan to continue theirstudies, most at four-year colleges. Several havebeen awarded impressive scholarships; others havebeen honored for excellence in academics, the arts,and athletics. They’re the first graduating class sincewe opened our new state-of-the-art gymnasiumand fitness center – and they’ve made the most ofthat incredible facility, growing strong physically aswell as mentally and spiritually.One graduating senior, Nicole Johnny, was awardedthe Millennium Scholarship the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundationgives to outstanding minority students with significant financial need.Each year, only 150 Native American students nationwide receive thishonor, which can cover the costs of a student’s entire education througha doctoral degree. Nicole represents the ninth Rehoboth graduate chosenas a Millennium Scholar Rehoboth over the last six graduating classes– just 214 students total. This is tremendous affirmation of our academicexcellence and an honor Rehoboth takes great pride in.This graduation caps a year in which Rehoboth’s enrollment rose to 430students – 21 more than last year, Rehoboth’s highest enrollment ever!In joining the Rehoboth family, these youngsters entered a learningcommunity we believe is like no other. “Vigorously academic, beautifullydiverse, thoroughly Christian” – that’s how we describe the educationRehoboth offers to every child in our care.Unfortunately, Rehoboth also differs from many educational institutionsin another way: at our bottom line. In most private, Christian schools,enrolling more students means taking in more tuition dollars. But atRehoboth, it’s quite the opposite. More than half our students come fromfamilies living below the national poverty level. More than two-thirds areNative American, and many live in remote regions of the Navajo Nation,some in homes without plumbing or water. For every student we enroll,Rehoboth provides a tuition subsidy covering nearly 40% of the cost ofa year’s education. And in cases where the need is even greater - roughlythree in five of our students – Rehoboth lowers families’ costs even furtherwith more tuition aid. Only the generosity of our donors nationwidemakes these exceptional aid grants possible.“In most private, Christianschools, enrolling morestudents means takingin more tuition dollars.But at Rehoboth, it’squite the opposite.”Helping Sustain Rehoboth’sUnique MissionEvery year at Rehoboth, May brings the excitement of graduation – andthen June brings a more sober reckoning, the end of our fiscal year. Inthe 2007-2008 budget year, we’ve nearly emptied our tuition aid fundto provide the excellent education and Christian formation these finestudents deserve. We can replenish that fund if wemeet our fundraising goals – but we’re not thereyet. Any gift you could send now, in these finalweeks of the fiscal year which ends June 30, 2008,would help us reach that important goal.As we send Rehoboth’s 2008 graduates forth todo God’s work in the world, we know they willbe sustained by the prayers of faithful friends likeyou. We ask you to also to prayerfully consider afinancial gift of support today as well.An envelope for your gift of support is enclosed in this newsletter. Or, todonate online, please visit our Web site, www.rcsnm.org, and click on the“Support Us” link at the top of the home page. Either way your gift, smallor large, will help refill Rehoboth’s tuition aid fund and keep our needieststudents in school again next year.We would not ask for your support without assuring you that we workhard to be worthy of it. Since 2007, Charity Navigator - America’spremier independent evaluator of charitable organizations – has givenRehoboth Christian School its highest, four-stars rating, for sound fiscalmanagement. In a letter awarding Rehoboth the four-star ranking,Charity Navigator President Trent Stamp wrote: “Less than a quarterof the charities we evaluate have received our highest rating, indicatingthat Rehoboth Christian School outperforms the majority of non profitsin America with respect to fiscal responsibility.” We are grateful forthat endorsement. We hope it confirms, for you and all our supporters,Rehoboth is indeed a trustworthy steward of every gift it receives.Again, thank you for your past support. With God’s grace, your prayersand gifts, Rehoboth has been sustained for 105 years. Simply put,Rehoboth would not exist without you.Yours in Christ,Ron PolinderExecutive Director11

aseball, and I knew that this was for me. All of this is why I am sopassionate about the Red Sox.Being a Red Sox fan, I do get a lot of trash talked to me. Buthey, that’s a given. While here at Rehoboth I have been challenged tothink for myself. I have not only been taught to think critically, butalso to think on a deeper level. This year I have taken a worldviews andChristian Life class that has challenged me in many different ways. Ihave been challenged to think about my faith, and ask questions that Imay have not wanted to ask in the past.Throughout my years here at Rehoboth I have learned that it isok to question God, to ask Him questions. In my mind questions likethese have helped me grow inmy faith.One of the highpoints during my years herehappened just a few shortmonths ago. I spoke earlier ofmy disorder that I have beendealing with for some time.I have been on a countlessnumber of medications for thepast 7 years. Nothing seemedto work.In January, my doctorgave me an ultimatum. Hetold me that my first choicewas to be put in the hospitalfor an extended period oftime and be put on highlyexperimental medication andgo through intense physicaltherapy. If I chose this path Iwould miss so much schoolthat I would have to drop out. Mysecond choice was to have a prettyserious surgery to implant a permanentdevice called a spinal chord stimulator. What this device does is sendelectrical impulses to my legs to cut out the pain signals that are beingsent to my brain. I had a huge decision to make. My family told me thatthis was something that I had to decide on my own. I respected themfor that, but now I had to sit and think about this and what impact eachwould have on my future.After hours upon hours of thinking, I finally came to a decision.I chose to go with the spinal chord stimulator. On January 5, 2008 Iwas implanted with this device. I went into the hospital at about 7 inthe morning, and was in surgery by 11:00 am. This was about a fourhour surgery. I woke up in recovery and stayed there for another hour orso. The doctor came in and turned the device on and within 5 minutesI was up and walking. I went into the hospital barely able to walk withthe help of crutches, and about 9 hours later I was able to walk outunder my own power.This stimulator is something that has changed my life. I amnow able to work, bowl, and be a semi-normal teenager. I am still notable to play contact sports, and before I got sick I loved to ride myfour-wheeler. I am not able to do that anymore either, but all of that isa small price to pay for being able to walk, and being off all medicationfor the first time in 7 years. I can find other things in life that I enjoythat do not involve playing sports.Before I was diagnosed with CRPS I was an avid baseball player.Baseball was my life. I was planning on baseball helping me get intocollege, then suddenly all of that was taken from me. People ask me whyI like baseball so much, because they seem to think it is so boring. I haveto explain to them that sinceI am not able to play baseballI have to replace that voidwith other forms of baseball.The way I choose to do it isby absorbing all of the factsand stats about the gamethat I can. I also watch it asoften as possible. Baseball isstill a huge part of my life.I now realize thateverything happens for areason, and right now I maynot know what the reason is,but in time God will makethis known to me. Onething God has made knownto me is that my calling inlife is to become a physicaltherapist. Throughout allof my sickness I have beenTravis Wyatt, Red Sox Player Kevin Youkilis, andthrough numerous hoursDustin Wyattof physical therapy. So many peoplehave helped me through this that Ifeel as if it is my turn to help others.I have felt this way for a long time, and I hope to make this come true.In the fall I will be attending Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff,AZ to help complete my dream. And who knows, maybe one day I willbe the head of physical therapy and rehab for the Boston Red Sox!Get to know other RCS Seniors!Go to www. rcsnm.orgClick on “High School”then “Senior Portfolios”13

Thank YouVolunteersYear Round / Long TermFred and Harriet Witteveen – Rehoboth, NMOwen and MaryLou Aukeman – Zeeland, MIDan and Alice Aukeman – Grand Haven, MIBen VanderWerff – Gallup, NMKeith and Arlene Kuipers – Gallup, NMRoland and Ruth Kamps – Gallup, NMAndrew Swetz – Rehoboth, NMDan VanDeRiet – Gallup, NMJohn Klein – Gallup, NMPaul Marotti – Grand Haven, MIKara VanGroningen – Holland, MIPaul and Jackie Bremer – Grand Rapids, MIIndividuals, March - June 2008Howard and Marion Johnson – Zeeland, MIJerry and Kaye Schafer – Midland, MIGary and Neda Raterink – Belmont, MIArnie and Joan Mulder – New Holland, SDScot and Darlene Konings – Milwaukee, WIBert and Hendrica Schouten – Edmonton, Alberta, CanadaFrank and Revena Gritters – Pella, IAMarion Tiemeyer – Grand Rapids, MIJimi Quick – St. Louis, MOEsther Nawyn – Kentwood, MIMarlo and Carol DeYoung – Lynden, WARon and Theda Williams – Charlevoix, MITerry and Jacque VanderSlik – Petoskey, MIRon and Betty VanMersbergen – Bellaire, MIVictor and Kathy Martinchek – Petoskey, MICatie Van Groningen – Chicago, ILEsther VanGroningen – Chicago, ILJenny VanGroningen – Chicago, ILMary Kuipers – Grand Haven, MICarol Kasmauski – Grand Haven, MIMike Door – Grandville, MIScott VanPopering – Wyoming, MIBob and Joyce Beute – Hudsonville, MIJuke Aukeman – Hudsonville, MIStan Luben – Hudsonville, MIDel DeJong – Hudsonville, MIHenry Bierling – Hudsonville, MIChris Kanten – Hudsonville, MIBruce Hulst – Hudsonville, MIGroups, March – June 2008Calvin Spring Break Trip – Grand Rapids, MILutheran Church of Hope – DesMoines, IACascade Fellowship CRC – Grand Rapids, MIDenver Christian School, 7th grade – Denver, COMOC Basketball Camp – Orange City, IATurning Pointe Dance Camp – Holland, MIAdopt a Dorm Room…We have two dormitories on campusthat used to function as student housingwhen Rehoboth was a boarding school. Sincestudents no longer use them, they are usedto house volunteer groups, student teachers,employees and other renters.We are at a point where we need toupdate the furnishings. In order to keep ourcosts low, we are looking to raise money to dothis. Each room has four twin beds, two desksand two chairs. The closets and drawer spaceare built in.The cost to adopt a room, whichincludes all furniture, paint, rugs andcurtains, is $2,000. It could be a Sundayschool, church, school, college or individualproject to adopt a full, half or even a quarterof a room. All donations are tax deductible.Opportunities to Serve…Ongoing needs:Gifts In Memory Of:In memory of Jantina Lynn BakerMr. William J. BakerIn memory of Ann K. BoydMr. and Mrs. David and Diane BoydMr. and Mrs. Harold and Elizabeth LankheetMrs. Cynthia C. HonderdIn memory of William Burrola and William PickettMr. Anthony Burrola and Mrs. Elizabeth Hardin-BurrollaIn memory of Marjorie BytworkMr. Albert W. BytworkIn memory of Ralph CokMr. and Mrs. Bert and Marilyn GjeltemaIf you are interested, please call, e-mail orsend your donation to:Carrie Hekman, Campus HostessPO Box 41Rehoboth, NM 87322(505) 726-9603chekman@rcsnm.orgCheck out www.rcsnm.org • “Volunteering” • for all the latest volunteer info•Serve and prepare meals during the school year;•Tutors in the elementary, middle school and high school;•Administration, development and middle school office help;•Bus maintenance and repair;•Facility maintenance and repair.Immediate needs: •Skilled craftsmen to help with our building project;•Experienced tile layer to replace broken tiles in the dorms;•Shadow an 8th grade student for a semester;•Adopt a dorm room program.In memory of David DragtMr. and Mrs. John and Lori KortenhoevenMr. Leonard F. Westra, Jr.Rev. and Mrs. Willis and Gertrude DeBoerMr. and Mrs. Tony and Jan TemplemanIn memory of Chet & Nellie DykstraMr. and Mrs. Robert and Sharon LindhoutIn memory of Raymond GjeltemaMr. and Mrs. Stanley and Carol ShustakMr. and Mrs. Paul and Marilyn CokMr. and Mrs. Bert and Marilyn GjeltemaMr. and Mrs. Raymond and Faye PostmaMr. and Mrs. Earl and Janice CokMs. Mabel A. BakerIn memory of Priscilla HaleMr. and Mrs. James and Mary HaleIn memory of Betty HendricksMiss Vivian R. Louis14

Graduation continued from Page 1. . .“But what we know isthat we have God besideus at all times, and one ofthe gifts God has givenis Rehoboth,” she said,interrupted by warmapplause. “Coming toRehoboth was the biggestblessing I have everreceived. We are preparedand we are ready—we don’tneed to be afraid. We areheading out into the worldto serve.”The class’s two salutatorians, Nicole Johnny and Lia Holwerdaspoke more about the class’s quirks, personality, and diversity—including the diversity of even the three of them—a Korean, a Navajo,and a Dutch-American.After the senior class choir sang their class song, “Do not beafraid, I am with you…I have called you each by name,” the ceremonyclosed with religion and social studies teacher Dirk Hollebeek’s blessing,reminding the graduates that each of them were created by God for aspecific purpose.While friends and family whooped it up with the 2008graduates in the auxiliary gym, the honored alumni class, the 17students who graduated as the class of 1958, held its own receptionin the band room across the foyer. A more serene group that includedformer classmates, Shirley Barton, Eddie Bill, Faith Bitsie (widow ofOscar Bitsie), Ed Carlisle, Violet Henry, Eunice James, and FelipitaLasiloo Coonsis, munched on cake and strawberries while quietlyIn memory of Maggie HilbrandsMr. and Mrs. Willis and Janice HilbrandsMr. and Mrs. Willis and Janice HilbrandsIn memory of Alvin JelgerhuisMr. and Mrs. Thomas and Maureen CeteraMiss Arlene E. RomkemaIn honor & memory of Christopher JohnsonMr. and Mrs. James and Barbara BrouwerMr. and Mrs. Gregory and Kathy DoorIvanrest CRCIn memory of Rich KruisMr. and Mrs. Norman and Lucile PoelIn memory of Mr. and Mrs. Cornelius KuiperMission to the WorldIn memory of Minnie PalsMr. and Mrs. Ronald and Barbara VelthouseMr. and Mrs. Robert and Susan DykstraMr. Pete VanPuttenMr. and Mrs. Jack and Sandra McCrackenIn memory of Bea Bosscher -Legtenberg -VanderKolkMr. and Mrs. Don and Marilyn RodenhuisMr. and Mrs. Vern and Verla LigtenbergMr. and Mrs. Arie and Henrietta VanWingerdenMr. and Mrs. Donald and Cornelia BattjesIn memory of Rev. Rolf VeenstraMr. and Mrs. Ronald and Vivian TalsmaMr. and Mrs. John and Marian VandenBergcatching up and perusing poster boards of former classmates who havepassed on. Ed “Cowboy” Carlisle, former RCS school board member,public servant, as well as grandfather of 2008 graduate Alex Carlisle,was eventually given a microphone and addressed the whole group,describing his years at Rehoboth long ago and the benefits he hadacquired there for use throughout his life.In the end, his words were probably meant more for thoseyoung people celebrating across the hall, than for those older and wiserpolitely listening to him. “Before I started school, my father said to me,‘Whatever you do, don’t waste your life. Look around us at the beautyand magnitude of the creation and how it was designed for us as a gift.Whatever you do, try to develop yourself and take your turn leadingyour people.’ Rehoboth has been a partner in that endeavor for over 100years.”Carlisle ended by quoting his favorite hymn learned atRehoboth, the Battle Hymn of the Republic, “As Christ died to make menholy, let us live to make men free,” he said. “I have taken that as wisdomfor my life. We need to do that Christian service, do whatever we can tomake this world a better place than when we found it.”Job OpeningsCDO: The Chief Development Officer provides direction for all aspects of theschool’s fund raising efforts. This includes setting goals, designing strategies andplanning and implementation of existing and new programs. The successfulcandidate will also be responsible for expanding the development departmentincluding hiring new staff. Preferred candidates will have experience in majorgift fund raising, personal solicitations, direct mail and capital campaigns.Communication skills are required to tell effectively and passionately the storyand mission of Rehoboth.Send letter and resume to Ron Polinder, Executive Director, RCS, POBox 41, Rehoboth, NM 87322 or rpolinder@rcsnm.orgCheck all the latest openings at www.rcsnm.org “Job Openings.”Gifts In Honor Of:In honor of Henry and Marion Ippel,Mr. and Mrs. Donald and Elizabeth VerhulstIn honor of Keith KuipersMr. and Mrs. John and Mentey SlagerIn honor of Nella VeenstraMs. Alta VanGenderenMr. and Mrs. John and Marian VandenBergIn honor of Elmer and Sharon YazzieDr. and Mrs. Larry and Barbara VanGenderenIn memory of Alice LeeMs. Shirley B. VankleyIn memory of Theresa Visbeek-McKellebMr. and Mrs. Raymond and Faye PostmaIn memory of Megan OrtizMr. and Mrs. Jan and Judy Huussen15

2007-08Rehoboth Christian SchoolBoard of DirectorsKaren Schell, ChairpersonAnn Miller, Vice-ChairpersonLynelle Benallie, SecretaryAllan Landavazo, TreasurerJerome AlfordGeorge AngPerry BenallyNorman CheeDuane ChimoniJerry CroninSusanna FosterGloria LeeCharlotte LorenzoJoAnn Holyan-TerrySarah Wolf• Mission Statement •Rehoboth Christian Schoolchallenges its students to knowthe Triune God and equips themto love, serve and transform theworld in His name.www.rcsnm.orgPO Box 41Rehoboth, NM 87322Address Service RequestedNon-Profit Org.US Postage PaidGreenville MIPermit #338Summer 2008Vigorously Academic • Beautifully Diverse • Thoroughly Christian