Revelation 3:14-22 “To the Church in Laodicea”

Posted on Jun 13, 2020 by admin in Daily Bible Journal, Revelation | 110

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, as I open the word of God today and read this letter that you have written to Your Church, may my heart be opened to the message you have for me, for my family, and for Hopkins Community Church.  Reveal Your Truth to Your Church that we may shed those things which bind us and blind us to what it means to be Your people, Your witnesses, Your light in this world.  Convict us, Lord, and call us to repentance.  Break the chains of comfort and complacency and empower us for the mission and ministry you uniquely call each of us to.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Revelation 3:14-22

To the Church in Laodicea

14 “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:

These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. 15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. 17 You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see.

19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.

21 To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne. 22 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

 

Follow-up Questions:

  1. Why is God speaking to the specific church that this passage is addressed to?
  2. How do you think God is speaking through this passage to my church?
  3. What is God saying specifically to me through this passage?
 

Revelation 3:1-6 “To the Church in Sardis”

Posted on Jun 11, 2020 by admin in Daily Bible Journal, Revelation | 240

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, as I open the word of God today and read this letter that you have written to Your Church, may my heart be opened to the message you have for me, for my family, and for Hopkins Community Church.  Reveal Your Truth to Your Church that we may shed those things which bind us and blind us to what it means to be Your people, Your witnesses, Your light in this world.  Convict us, Lord, and call us to repentance.  Break the chains of comfort and complacency and empower us for the mission and ministry you uniquely call each of us to.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Revelation 3:1-6 

To the Church in Sardis

“To the angel of the church in Sardis write:

These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.

Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels. Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

Follow-up Questions:

  1. Why is God speaking to the specific church that this passage is addressed to?
  2. How do you think God is speaking through this passage to my church?
  3. What is God saying specifically to me through this passage?
 
Sermon unavailable due to technical issues.

Revelation 2:18-29 “To the Church in Thyatira”

Posted on Jun 10, 2020 by admin in Daily Bible Journal, Revelation | 20

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, as I open the word of God today and read this letter that you have written to Your Church, may my heart be opened to the message you have for me, for my family, and for Hopkins Community Church.  Reveal Your Truth to Your Church that we may shed those things which bind us and blind us to what it means to be Your people, Your witnesses, Your light in this world.  Convict us, Lord, and call us to repentance.  Break the chains of comfort and complacency and empower us for the mission and ministry you uniquely call each of us to.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Revelation 2:18-29 

To the Church in Thyatira

“To the angel of the church in Thyatira write:

These are the words of the Son of God, whose eyes are like blazing fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze. I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first.

Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols. I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling. So I will cast her on a bed of suffering, and I will make those who commit adultery with her suffer intensely, unless they repent of her ways. I will strike her children dead. Then all the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds.

Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan’s so-called deep secrets, ‘I will not impose any other burden on you, except to hold on to what you have until I come.’

To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations— that one ‘will rule them with an iron scepter and will dash them to pieces like pottery’—just as I have received authority from my Father. I will also give that one the morning star.  Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

 

Follow-up Questions:

  1. Why is God speaking to the specific church that this passage is addressed to?
  2. How do you think God is speaking through this passage to my church?
  3. What is God saying specifically to me through this passage?
 

Revelation 2:12-17 “To the Church in Pergamum”

Posted on Jun 9, 2020 by admin in Daily Bible Journal, Revelation | 180

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, as I open the word of God today and read this letter that you have written to Your Church, may my heart be opened to the message you have for me, for my family, and for Hopkins Community Church.  Reveal Your Truth to Your Church that we may shed those things which bind us and blind us to what it means to be Your people, Your witnesses, Your light in this world.  Convict us, Lord, and call us to repentance.  Break the chains of comfort and complacency and empower us for the mission and ministry you uniquely call each of us to.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Revelation 2:12-17

To the Church in Pergamum

“To the angel of the church in Pergamum write:

These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, not even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives.

Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: There are some among you who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin so that they ate food sacrificed to idols and committed sexual immorality. Likewise, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.

Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.

Follow-up Questions:

  1. Why is God speaking to the specific church that this passage is addressed to?
  2. How do you think God is speaking through this passage to my church?
  3. What is God saying specifically to me through this passage?
 

Revelation 2:8-11 “To the Church in Smyrna”

Posted on Jun 8, 2020 by admin in Daily Bible Journal, Revelation | 110

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, as I open the word of God today and read this letter that you have written to Your Church, may my heart be opened to the message you have for me, for my family, and for Hopkins Community Church.  Reveal Your Truth to Your Church that we may shed those things which bind us and blind us to what it means to be Your people, Your witnesses, Your light in this world.  Convict us, Lord, and call us to repentance.  Break the chains of comfort and complacency and empower us for the mission and ministry you uniquely call each of us to.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Revelation 2:8-11

To the Church in Smyrna

“To the angel of the church in Smyrna write:

These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.

Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death.

Follow-up Questions:

  1. Why is God speaking to the specific church that this passage is addressed to?
  2. How do you think God is speaking through this to my church?
  3. What is God saying specifically to me through this passage?
 

Revelation 2:1-7 “To the Church in Ephesus”

Posted on Jun 7, 2020 by admin in Daily Bible Journal, Revelation | 220

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, as I open the word of God today and read this letter that you have written to Your Church, may my heart be opened to the message you have for me, for my family, and for Hopkins Community Church.  Reveal Your Truth to Your Church that we may shed those things which bind us and blind us to what it means to be Your people, Your witnesses, Your light in this world.  Convict us, Lord, and call us to repentance.  Break the chains of comfort and complacency and empower us for the mission and ministry you uniquely call each of us to.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

Revelation 2:1-7

To the Church in Ephesus

“To the angel of the church in Ephesus write:

These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands. I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.

Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place. But you have this in your favor: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.
 

Follow-up Questions:

  1. Why is God speaking to the specific church that this passage is addressed to?
  2. How do you think God is speaking through this passage to my church?
  3. What is God saying specifically to me through this passage?
 

HCC Informer & Service Information

Posted on Jun 5, 2020 by admin in HCRC updates | 3040

Good Morning Hopkins Community Church!

Coming to you with some updates and information about HCC and things coming up!
 
If you ordered clothing for the Costa Rica mission trip fundraiser, the Blieks will have your order at church on Sunday in their car.  Please find them after worship to pick it up.
 
On Monday, June 15, the Consistory will meet together.  One of the things that will be at the forefront of our agenda will be a continuing discussion on “reopening” and the return to in-person worship inside the church building.  We ask that you be in prayer for us over the next week and a half as we approach this meeting!
 

Drive-In Church: Sunday 6/7/2020

 
Join us for Drive-in Church at 10 AM Sunday! We will be opening Scripture together looking at Revelation 1:9-20 as we begin our summer series talking about the “End Times,” bringing as much clarity as we can to the subject. I would encourage you to read a handful of passages in preparation for Sunday as well from the Old Testament. Isaiah 2:2-5; Daniel 2; and Ezekiel 1. These passages contain visions that are had and, in some cases, interpreted by the prophets. They are strange… sometimes wild… but are very important as we enter into a conversation on the “End Times” or the “Last Days”. I encourage you to prayerfully read these, and let them set with you, even if you don’t feel like you understand them. Ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten you in the coming days as God speaks through these passages.
 
You can join us in person (in your car) at HCC, tuning your radio to 97.3 FM.
 
You can join us live on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE-yIUv3Mc6wTTledxAKIww
Please subscribe to the channel!
 
You can also join us live on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/HopkinsCommunityReformedChurch
 
Attached you will find a printable worship sheet as well. Please remember that we cannot provide them at the time of the service.

*PLEASE NOTE THIS CHANGE*

The Consistory decided, on Monday, that with upcoming services, we are welcoming people to bring their lawn chairs. You are welcome to sit in front (or behind) your vehicle. We also ask that everyone respect each other’s distance, if they wish, and decisions in this regard, being mindful of those who choose to remain in their vehicles and, particularly with the honking, that you are also mindful of those who are outside of their vehicles. The church will continue to be closed and we heavily encourage you to plan on not using the restrooms here at HCC. A P.A. system will broadcast the service in the parking lot.

Giving

Please remember that we have a number of different giving options for you whether in person, via mail, ACH, and also online. You can check them out at https://www.hopkinscommunitychurch.net/giving/
We are continually grateful for your ongoing generosity and support!
 
There will be a place to drop off donations of food as well as your tithes/offerings on the way in and on the way out. Our In-Gathering this week is for the Hopkins food Pantry. Non-perishable food items can be brought for donation. See the following message from Diane Stone:
The first Sunday of June is upon us, Happy summer everyone!  Our regular food pantry donation week is this week, please consider bringing an item with you to drive-in church to help individuals in our community.  Some suggestions:
 
Mac & cheese
Spaghetti O’s / Ravioli
Pop-tarts
Canned fruit
Rice
Tuna/hamburger helper
Feminine hygiene products
Dish soap
 
Additionally, this week, there will be large crates on the North end of the parking lot. YoungLife is doing a pop can collection drive. You are welcome to drop off any pop cans that you have on Sunday and YoungLife will hold on to them and return them when that is a possibility.
 
We look forward to seeing you, whether in person or online, on Sunday!
 
Have a blessed weekend!

HCC Informer and Sunday Service Information

Posted on May 22, 2020 by admin in HCRC updates | 950

Good Evening Hopkins Community Church!

First, let me begin this email with congratulations from myself, Bethany, and on behalf of HCC to the 2020 Graduates!  It was great to see all of you in the parade this evening.  We continue to hold you in our prayers as you close this chapter of your lives and begin a new one in the coming weeks & months.
 
Second, as this weekend is Memorial Day, I want to take a moment to thank all of the veterans within our congregation for your service.  We are forever grateful for you!  We also take a moment to remember that there are several members of our congregation who are actively serving in the military as well.  Some are local, some are abroad.  Wherever they are, we continue to lift them up in prayer, thankful for their continuing service to our country, and mindful of their physical absence from this community.

COVID-19 Update

On Monday evening, May 18, the Consistory met together, spread out across the sanctuary to keep social distancing protocols, to discuss a number of matters of importance for HCC.  Of chief concern for us was a discussion on “re-opening” Hopkins Community Church.  For us, thankfully, that means a return to in-person worship services inside of our building… not a consideration of whether we can meet together at all.  God has blessed us with a venue and format for worshiping together as a community that has, for the vast majority, been a really great way to worship and also feel comfortable as it pertains to health concerns.  These times have also pushed us to take steps advancing our audio/video capabilities and moving to live streaming our services, an option for worship that we will continue indefinitely, regardless of worship location.
 
Ultimately, after a time of listening prayer, the consideration of the survey results, and a good discussion about what the best move for us as a church that is seeking, more than anything, to communicate the Gospel of Jesus to as many people as possible, we decided unanimously to continue doing Drive-In Church through June 21.  As we learn more from state and local officials, understand the laws and orders that are coming down, as well as considering what the federal government recommendations are, we will reevaluate what comes next at our June consistory meeting on June 15.  On Tuesday we will be hosting a Facebook/Youtube live stream to talk more about this decision, about some of the factors that went into it, and would also be happy to take questions through the live stream during that time.  More information, including time and links, will be made available as that approaches.
 

Drive-In Church: Sunday 5/24/2020

Join us for Drive-in Church at 10 AM Sunday! Pastor Jim Harrison will be speaking on “How to Pray with Boldness”
 
You can join us in person (in your car) at HCC, tuning your radio to 97.3 FM. We will still host a live service on Sunday morning with the radio available. However, we cannot guarantee that Pastor Jim will be either outside on the lift or visible for everyone if he is under the entrance overhang. Determinations will be made based on our ability to safely record the service and not risk damaging technology as well as Pastor Jim’s safety in the event of a thunderstorm. If we continue to gather using the drive-in church model, we will undoubtedly experience more difficult weather situations. Your feedback about this service, and your experience in the rain, would be greatly appreciated.
 
You can join us live on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE-yIUv3Mc6wTTledxAKIww
Please subscribe to the channel!
 
You can also join us live on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/HopkinsCommunityReformedChurch
 
Attached you will find a printable worship sheet as well. Please remember that we cannot provide them at the time of the service.  You can find that here:

*PLEASE NOTE THIS CHANGE*

The Consistory decided, on Monday, that with upcoming services, we are welcoming people to bring their lawn chairs. You are welcome to sit in front (or behind) your vehicle. We still ask that you keep your physical distance with each other, complying (to the best of your ability) with federal and state standards for physical distancing. We also ask that everyone respect each other’s decisions in this regard, being mindful of those who choose to remind in their vehicles and, particularly with the honking, that you are also mindful of those who are outside of their vehicles. The church will continue to be closed and we heavily encourage you to plan on not using the restrooms here at HCC. A P.A. system will broadcast the service in the parking lot.
 
Please remember that we have a number of different giving options for you whether in person, via mail, ACH, and also online. You can check them out at https://www.hopkinscommunitychurch.net/giving/
We are continually grateful for your ongoing generosity and support!
 
There will be a place to drop off donations of food as well as your tithes/offerings on the way in and on the way out. Our In-Gathering this week is for the Hopkins food Pantry. Non-perishable food items can be brought for donation.
 
Additionally, this week, there will be large crates on the North end of the parking lot. YoungLife is doing a pop can collection drive. You are welcome to drop off any pop cans that you have on Sunday and YoungLife will hold on to them and return them when that is a possibility.
 
We look forward to seeing you, whether in person or online, on Sunday!
 
Have a blessed weekend!

HCC Worship Service Information: 5/17/2020

Posted on May 16, 2020 by admin in HCRC updates | 1580

Good Evening HCC,

I apologize for being late with this email.  To be honest, this comes from a combination of not feeling well in the latter part of today and praying/hoping that the forecast would change… and, at the very least, it no longer looks like thunderstorms tomorrow morning… so that’s good, I guess.
 
Here is the service information for tomorrow.  Please make sure you read this through if possible as there will be some special instructions due to the relative certainty of the forecast of rain.
 

Drive-In Church: Sunday 5/17/2020

Join us for Drive-in Church at 10 AM tomorrow! We will open Scripture to 1 Peter 5:1-11 in a sermon entitled “Casting Our Cares”
 
You can join us in person (in your car) at HCC, tuning your radio to 97.3 FM. We will still host a live service tomorrow morning with the radio available. However, we cannot guarantee that Pastor Jon will be either outside on the lift or visible for everyone if he is under the entrance overhang. Determinations will be made based on our ability to safely record the service and not risk damaging technology as well as Pastor Jon’s safety in the event of a thunderstorm. If we continue to gather using the drive-in church model, we will undoubtedly experience more difficult weather situations. Your feedback about this service, and your experience in the rain, would be greatly appreciated.
 
You can join us live on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE-yIUv3Mc6wTTledxAKIww
Please subscribe to the channel!
 
You can also join us live on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/HopkinsCommunityReformedChurch
 
***If you have been wondering about the live stream, this might be a good day to try it out.  One of the options we are looking at moving forward is the possibility of meeting in small groups in a sort of “satellite campus” sort of thing.  The live stream would play an integral roll in that as our worship service would be the same even if our venues are somewhat different.  If you stay home (or decide to gather with others) we would love your feedback on this as well.
 
Here you will find a printable worship sheet as well. Please remember that we cannot provide them at the time of the service.
 
Please remember to remain in your vehicles for the service as we continue to comply with the current standards of the Federal Government’s social distancing guidelines. At this time, public restrooms are not available and the church will remain locked during the service.
 
Please remember that we have a number of different giving options for you whether in person, via mail, ACH, and also online. You can check them out at https://www.hopkinscommunitychurch.net/giving/
If you choose to stay home, the church will be open Monday from 9 AM – 9 PM for any giving drop-off. You can also mail a check (please don’t mail cash) to the church. We are continually grateful for your ongoing generosity!
 
Again, In the event of rain, we will move forward as planned. Unfortunately, Pastor Jon will just have to preach from under the canopy or from inside the church instead of outside and raised up.
 
There will be a place to drop off donations as Tithes/Offerings as well as your offer on the way in and on the way out. Our In-Gathering this week is for the Hopkins food Pantry. Non-perishable food items can be brought for donation. If you choose to stay home, the church will be open Monday from 9 AM – 9 PM for food drop-off. See the following post from Diane Stone regarding the in-gathering:
 
The Hopkins Community Food Pantry will be providing kid lunch bags again this summer for our clients.  The school will stop providing lunches in May and the food pantry will provide lunch bags for three months (June, July,  August).  Along with our regular food pantry collection on the first Sunday of the month, we will have a special collection for the kid lunch bags on the third Sunday of the month.  If you would like to contribute,  following is a list of items we pack:
Cereal 
Peanut butter 
Jelly 
Macaroni and cheese 
Spaghetti O’s/ravioli 
Chicken noodle soup 
Crackers 
Tuna fish 
Pudding cups 
Microwave popcorn 
Chips 
Cookies 
Granola bars 
Thanks, everyone for all of the donations!
 
Have a blessed evening,
-Pastor Jon-

HCC Informer (5/8/2020) & Sunday Service Information

Posted on May 8, 2020 by admin in HCRC updates | 2010

Good Evening HCC!

Coming to you this morning with several pieces of information regarding the life and ministry of Hopkins Community Church.

Drive-In Church: Sunday 5/10/2020

Join us for Drive-in Church at 10 AM on Sunday!  We will open Scripture to Deuteronomy 6:4-9 & Ephesians 6:1-3 in a sermon entitled “Purposeful Parenting”

You can join us in person (in your car) at HCC, tuning your radio to 97.3 FM.

You can join us live on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE-yIUv3Mc6wTTledxAKIww

This will be the new home for live streaming HCC worship services and events.  Please subscribe to the channel!

We continue to test some new software, trying to improve your experience and our abilities.  There may be an increased delay (up to approx. 30 seconds) between the video online and the audio in your vehicle.  If you are watching from your vehicle, we recommend muting the audio on your mobile device and listening to the radio.

You can also join us live on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/HopkinsCommunityReformedChurch

Here is a printable worship sheet as well. Please remember that we cannot provide them at the time of the service.

Please remember to remain in your vehicles for the service as we continue to comply with the current standards of the Federal Government’s social distancing guidelines.

In the event of rain, we will move forward as planned. Unfortunately, Pastor Jon will just have to preach from under the canopy instead of raised up.

There will be a place to drop off donations as Tithes/Offerings as well as your offer on the way in and on the way out. Our In-Gathering this week is for the Hopkins food Pantry. Non-perishable food items can be brought for donation.

Mother’s Day:

Typically, on Mother’s Day, flowers are handed out at the end of the worship service to mothers as a blessing and recognition of their unique and vital place in our lives. In lieu of the current Covid-19 restrictions and with the health of the congregation in mind, we are not going to be handing out flowers this year. In place of that, here is a coloring sheet that we encourage your children to decorate and bring to church on Sunday. As you drive in and drive out, have your children show them out (or through it is raining) the windows of your car.

Discipleship Opportunity:

Thursday evenings, from 8:00 PM – 9:15 PM we are hosting an event called “EXPECTANCY: learning to grow, pray, and operate in the power of the Holy Spirit“. This meeting will take place via ZOOM, led by Pastor Jim Harrison, and will be an opportunity to grow in your knowledge, understanding, and ultimately the application of what it means to live our lives in a closer relationship with the Holy Spirit. The group is using the book “Forgotten God” by Francis Chan which is available, along with a workbook, upon request to Pastor Jon.

Covid-19:

At this time, we are going to continue worshiping on Sundays via the Drive-in Style of worship through May 24. We will also be extending the suspension of In-Person activities in the church through this time. The consistory will meet on May 18 to discuss the future and consider possibilities for “opening up” once again. Please be in prayer for wisdom and discernment on this matter as we balance our desire for normalcy with that of keeping people safe. A survey will be going out to the congregation and those who have attended Drive-In church these past 3-4 weeks about thoughts and feelings regarding current and future possibilities.

Needs:

Finally, we want to once again encourage you that if you find yourself in need, or know of someone who is in need, we would like to connect with you (or them) and help.  HCC has both physical and financial resources to help those in need and want to do so in this time.  Please contact a consistory member or Pastor Jon to talk about this.

PASTORS

Jonathon VanderWall

Jonathonvanderwall@gmail.com

Jim Harrison

Jimharrison7@gmail.com

 

ELDERS

Dick Boverhof (District 4: M-R)

bov@h-binc.com

 

Sally Burgess (District 3: I-L)

sjburg@att.net

 

Lee DeZeeuw (District 2: F-H)

leedezeeuw@yahoo.com

 

Dan Kisner (District 1: A-E)

kisner192@charter.net

 

Bob Larr (District 5: S-Z)

269.793.7452

 

DEACONS

Troy Clement (District 2: F-H)

monstertrucktroy@yahoo.com

 

Joel Eding (District 3: I-L)

joel@edingbrothers.com

 

Rich Huizinga (District 4: M-R)

r.huizinga@att.net

 

Jennifer Kerber (District 5: S-Z)

kerberjen@gmail.com

 

Lupe Martinez (District 1: A-E)

lupemartinez18@sbcglobal.net

 

Eric Porter (District 3: I-L)

rcprtr@gmail.com

 

Have a blessed weekend!


HCC Informer & Sunday Service Information

Posted on May 2, 2020 by admin in HCRC updates | 1490

Good Morning HCC!

Coming to you this morning with several pieces of information regarding the life and ministry of Hopkins Community Church.

Drive-In Church: Sunday 5/3/2020

Join us for Drive-in Church at 10 AM tomorrow! We will open Scripture to Philippians 2:1-11 in a sermon entitled “In Your Relationships with One Another…”
 
You can join us in person (in your car) at HCC, tuning your radio to 97.3 FM.
 
You can join us live on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE-yIUv3Mc6wTTledxAKIww
This will be the new home for live streaming HCC worship services and events.  Please subscribe to the channel!
We continue to test some new software, trying to improve your experience and our abilities.  There may be an increased delay (up to approx. 30 seconds) between the video online and the audio in your vehicle.  If you are watching from your vehicle, we recommend muting the audio on your mobile device and listening to the radio.
 
You can also join us live on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/HopkinsCommunityReformedChurch
 
Attached you will find a printable worship sheet as well. Please remember that we cannot provide them at the time of the service.
 
Please remember to remain in your vehicles for the service as we continue to comply with the current standards of the Federal Government’s social distancing guidelines.
 
There will be a place to drop off donations as Tithes/Offerings as well as your offer on the way in and on the way out. Our In-Gathering this week is for the Hopkins food Pantry. The following is a list of suggested items:
Jam Tomato soup Cereal Canned vegetables Canned fruit Tuna fish Macaroni and cheese Bar soap

Communion

Though this Sunday is the first Sunday of the month, which typically would mean that we celebrate Communion together, this week we will not be doing so. Pastor Jon and the consistory encourage you to do this at home with your families at Lunch tomorrow. We truly believe that you do not need the “right words” but rather, the “right heart” for it. Matthew 26:26-28, John 6:53-58, and 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 are good passages to read as you do this together with your family.

Discipleship Opportunity:

Beginning this week on Thursday evening, from 8:00 PM – 9:15 PM we will be hosting an event called “EXPECTANCY: learning to grow, pray, and operate in the power of the Holy Spirit“. This meeting will take place via ZOOM, led by Pastor Jim Harrison, and will be an opportunity to grow in your knowledge, understanding, and ultimately the application of what it means to live our lives in a closer relationship with the Holy Spirit. The group will be using the book “Forgotten God” by Francis Chan, resuming a study that they began in early March before the Lockdown. Though the group had met twice, they are still in the first chapter and anyone is welcome to join up as the first session will help catch everyone up and get everyone on the same page.
 
Book and workbooks are available at the church and you can get in touch with Pastor Jon to schedule a pick-up. If you are interested in being a part of this, please email Inform.HCC@gmail.com or call Pastor Jon and let us know and we will get you the ZOOM call information.

Covid-19:

At this time, we are going to continue worshiping on Sundays via the Drive-in Style of worship through May 24. We will also be extending the suspension of In-Person activities in the church through this time. The consistory will meet on May 18 to discuss the future and consider possibilities for “opening up” once again. Please be in prayer for wisdom and discernment on this matter as we balance our desire for normalcy with that of keeping people safe. A survey will be going out to the congregation and those who have attended Drive-In church these past 3-4 weeks about thoughts and feelings regarding current and future possibilities.

Needs:

Finally, we want to once again encourage you that if you find yourself in need, or know of someone who is in need, we would like to connect with you (or them) and help.  HCC has both physical and financial resources to help those in need and want to do so in this time.  Please contact a consistory member or Pastor Jon to talk about this.
 

ELDERS

Dick Boverhof (District 4: M-R)

bov@h-binc.com

 

Sally Burgess (District 3: I-L)

sjburg@att.net

 

Lee DeZeeuw (District 2: F-H)

leedezeeuw@yahoo.com

 

Dan Kisner (District 1: A-E)

kisner192@charter.net

 

Bob Larr (District 5: S-Z)

269.793.7452

 

DEACONS

Troy Clement (District 2: F-H)

monstertrucktroy@yahoo.com

 

Joel Eding (District 3: I-L)

joel@edingbrothers.com

 

Rich Huizinga (District 4: M-R)

r.huizinga@att.net

 

Jennifer Kerber (District 5: S-Z)

kerberjen@gmail.com

 

Lupe Martinez (District 1: A-E)

lupemartinez18@sbcglobal.net

 

Eric Porter (District 3: I-L)

rcprtr@gmail.com

 
Have a blessed weekend!

Sunday, April 26 Worship Service Information

Posted on Apr 24, 2020 by admin in HCRC updates | 1370

Join us for Drive-in Church at 10 AM tomorrow! Pastor Jim will be preaching about “How to pray in times of crisis”
 
You can join us in person (in your car) at HCC, tuning your radio to 97.3 FM.
 
You can join us live on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE-yIUv3Mc6wTTledxAKIww
This will be the new home for live streaming HCC worship services and events.  Please subscribe to the channel!
We are currently testing some new software, trying to improve your experience and our abilities.  There may be an increased delay (up to approx. 30 seconds) between the video online and the audio in your vehicle.  If you are watching from your vehicle, we recommend muting the audio on your mobile device and listening to the radio.
 
You can also join us live on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/HopkinsCommunityReformedChurch
 
You will find a printable worship sheet as well using the following link. Please remember that we cannot provide them at the time of the service.
 
Please remember to remain in your vehicles for the service as we continue to comply with the current standards of the Federal Government’s social distancing guidelines.
 
In the event of rain, we will move forward as planned. Unfortunately, Pastor Jon will just have to preach from under the canopy instead of raised up.
 
There will be a place to drop off donations as Tithes/Offerings as well as your offer on the way in and on the way out. Feel free to ask any of the parking crew if you have any questions as to where you can bring these things. The Donation information for this Sunday can be found in a post by Terri Maule, copied below:
 
Every week so far we have been having an in-gathering for the Hopkins food pantry.  This week we will be gathering items for the Kent Country Homeless shelter.  Terri Maule is working with the shelter and with clients that have tested negative for Covid-19.  If you could help us by bringing items in bags that are labeled so that we can more easily sort and transport donations, that would be great!  The following is the facebook post from Terri with a request list:
 
I am working (along with many Kent County Health Department staff) at a homeless shelter for Covid-19 people who aren’t sick enough for the hospital but cannot go back into the normal shelter because they are positive. The health department along with many others have done a great job of supporting these people through their recovery time. Due to a large amount of testing in this population this week we are expecting to be completely full in the next few days. We have had wonderful donations from our community partners to provide drinks, snacks, comfy clothes, etc. but I wondered if any of my fb friends would like a chance to help out as we anticipate a few weeks of being very busy (and going through a lot of supplies). I am going to list below some of the things that we go through the quickest or that we have a hard time getting. Think about all of these (mostly guys) people who are working through fevers, withdrawals, chronic health aches and pains and having comfort foods and comfort items just makes them so much more likely to stay happily with us. When they stay with us until they are considered not contagious anymore this is good for everyone. I work about every other day for the next 2 weeks so I would be happy to take gently used clothing donations or unopened, individual snacks in when I work.
  • Men’s L, XL, XXL or larger sweatshirts (the guys are so cold while the staff is sweating in all their gear)
  • Men’s XL or larger long sleeve or short sleeve t-shirts
  • Comfy pants like sweats or PJ bottoms or even long underwear
  • Men’s M or L underwear (maybe you happen to have an unopened package that was the wrong size or something)
  • Men’s gently used tennis shoes in sizes 9-12 (many of the guys are wearing worn out shoes)
  • Twin size comforters or warm blankets
  • microwave popcorn or other microwavable snacks (they love warm food)
  • clementines or bananas (not everyone has equal amounts of teeth for eating hard fruits)
  • candy (chocolate especially as they love sweets)
  • pop tarts
  • hot chocolate packets
  • cans of coke or pepsi (we go through coke like nobody’s business when we have it)
  • bottles of gatorade
  • other snack things you can think of (we don’t need chips or crackers as we have lots of those). We do have some ability to refrigerate a small amount of things.

HCC Informer 4/10/2020 (With Easter service Info)

Posted on Apr 10, 2020 by admin in HCRC updates | 1820

Hello HCC!

We are coming to you today with relevant information about the life of Hopkins Community Church in this continued Covid-19 lockdown.

First, I want to share with you that we have gotten continued support from our local officials and assurances that our Easter Drive-in service falls under the exemption of religious gatherings in the Governor’s executive orders. We will gather for “Drive-In” Easter celebration at 10 AM on Sunday, April 12. Here is the Facebook Event link that you can share on your social media pages: https://www.facebook.com/events/233289897789789

The following is a lot of important information for this service that you should keep in mind:

Easter Worship Service will begin at 10 AM. (Important to note the time change)

We will be opening God’s Word to John 20 in a message entitled: “That you may believe…”

The service will be broadcast over FM radio for your cars. Tune your radio dial to 97.3 FM.
 

The service will be livestreamed in two places.

This will be available for those who choose not to drive to church, who feel they need to stay home, or for those who have gathered but may not be able to see. If you use this at the event, we suggest muting the media volume on your mobile device and using the radio for your volume. You can find the livestream destinations using the following links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HopkinsCommunityReformedChurch

Youtube: https://youtu.be/kVLp8A8BeqY

 

You can find a printable song sheet by using the following link (songsheets will not be provided at the event): https://www.hopkinscommunitychurch.net/easter-lyrics-application/

Please follow the directions of the parking crew. Parking may be tight. We have tested the radio reception distance and can ensure reception from 20th street to CD’s, and to the past the top of the first hill on 21st as well. We will confirm before Sunday whether the Middle/High School parking lots are also viable radio reception locations. (Thanks again to the Veenstra Family for loaning us your equipment!)

Bring your own coffee/snacksOffering buckets will be available upon the exit of the parking lot.A location for non-perishable food donations will be available upon the exit of the parking lot. Donation suggestions include:

  • Tuna fish
  • Hamburger/Tuna helper
  • Jelly
  • Cereal
  • Canned fruit
  • Canned vegetables
  • Crackers
  • Bar soap
  • Toilet Paper

We must insist that:

  • People remain in their vehicles. This is vital for the event to work and keep everyone safe.
  • No bathrooms will be available. The church building will be locked.
  • No access to the church building will be available.
  • No church refreshments will be provided (let’s be honest, you make your own coffee better anyway)
  • Respect Social Distancing guidelines

We are looking forward to seeing each of you on Sunday!


HCC Update: 4/1/2020

Posted on Apr 1, 2020 by admin in HCRC updates | 660

Good Afternoon HCC!

We wanted to get in touch with you regarding some updates to our current situation and HCC’s response to it.
 
First, I am writing to inform you that, in keeping with governmental recommendations, we will continue the suspension of all “in-person” ministry activities through the end of April.  This includes our worship services on April 5, 9, 19, and 26.  This also impacts all rentals and other planned ministry activities as well with one exception: EASTER.

I am pleased to announce to you today that we will hold an EASTER service at church on Sunday, April 12.

The service will be at 10 AM and will be held as a “Drive-Up” worship service!!  This will be an opportunity to gather together as the community of faith and worship together from our cars!!  You don’t even have to get out of your pajamas if you don’t want to!  Pastor Jon has spoken with the Allegan County Sherrif’s office as well as State Rep. Mary Whiteford and has been assured that this is within the “exemption for religious gatherings” and that adhering to social distancing recommendations would allow for us to do this.  So, here are the facts:
  • Easter Sunday worship service: 10 AM in the Hopkins Community Church parking lot
  • Worship will be held in a “drive-up” or “drive-in” style
  • Music and preaching will be broadcast via FM radio as well as on Facebook and/or Youtube live online (more specifics to come)
    • Special Thank-you to the Veenstra Family for allowing us to use their FM radio transmitter from their annual light show
  • You will be asked to remain in your vehicles.
  • The church building will not be open to the public (this includes restrooms).
  • We will not have coffee or refreshments.
  • There will be no bulletins.  A printable songsheet will be made available earlier in the week.
  • Offering buckets will be available as you enter and exit the parking lot.
I am excited to see all of you, even if it has to be through a car window.  Stay tuned, there will be much more to come on this as we coordinate something that we’ve never done before!

A couple of other quick things:

Dorothy Paffhouse’s 99th birthday is April 4th! Let’s shower her with cards and well-wishes as going to see her is not an option right now. Her address is: Dorothy Paffhouse 620 Ely Street Room 14, Allegan, MI 49010
 
During Holy Week (April 5 – 11), I want to invite and encourage you to join together in prayer for ourselves, for our families, for our community, country, and the world as we journey through this COVID-19 crisis.  Each day, we will post a meditation as well as some guided prayer material to help you as individuals and families pray through this time.
 
On Thursday evening, during what would be our normal Maundy Thursday service, Pastor Jon will post a brief meditation that also includes a guided communion and prayer time.  Have bread and juice/wine on hand for this so that you can participate together in it!

Finally, I just want to, again, post here the ways in which you can stay in contact with us here at HCC:

Prayer Requests: Please email prayer requests to sandystearns@chartermi.net or to inform.hcc@gmail.com and we will be sure that they are circulated.
 
We continue to pray for you, that the Lord would continue to show His favor to you and through us as we continue on this Coronavirus experience.  May God continue to reveal to us how He is calling us to be His hands and feet during this difficult time.

HCC Informer: 3/19/2020

Posted on Mar 19, 2020 by admin in HCRC updates | 1050

Good Morning HCC!

Even though our in-person ministry gatherings have been suspended until April 11, we are committed to continuing communication and updates throughout this time!  With that in mind, here is the regular Thursday update for this week from HCC.
 
Our message this week comes from Romans chapter 8:19-30 and is called “What Hope is There?”  It will be released early Sunday morning in a similar format to last week.
 

First,

I want direct your attention to a new song that was just released by one of my favorite Christian artists and Hymn writers, Keith and Kristyn Getty: “Christ Our Hope in Life and Death.”  It is such a timely song for our situation today and it is written based on the first question and answer of the Heidelberg catechism.
 

Second,

I want to remind everyone of our communication tools. Sermons will be posted in many of these places as well as continual updates from HCC.
 
Communication:
We will be stepping up our efforts to be in communication with you.  This will largely be through an online format.  If you know individuals within the congregation who do not use this, please help us by spreading the word.  Some of our main communication avenues are:
HCC Informer: subscribe by emailing Inform.HCC@Google.com
REMIND Text messaging: subscribe by texting “@hopkinscom” to 81010
Facebook Page: Like us at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/HopkinsCommunityReformedChurch
Facebook Group: Request to join here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/306932216002349/
 
Prayer Requests:
Please email prayer requests to sandystearns@chartermi.net or to inform.hcc@gmail.com and we will be sure that they are circulated.
 

Needs:

If you find yourself in need of anything, please reach out to Pastor Jon via phone or email (jonathonvanderwall@gmail.com) or a consistory member and you will get a call-back either from him or someone from the consistory.
 
Also, I want to remind you that the consistory will begin calling those who are a part of the church over the next couple of days to talk about communication, needs, and the best ways for us to keep in touch!  I hope these moments of connection will be fruitful and meaningful for each of you!
 

Third,

I want to address the topic of giving one more time.  There is a new page on our website specifically designated toward giving information.  https://www.hopkinscommunitychurch.net/giving/
On this page you will find information about a new online giving option called “Tithe.ly”.  This, for the first time, allows for people to give through online or electronic means, or through an app and will be very helpful in the coming days and weeks as we continue to be physically apart from each other.  The app is available for all smartphone users.  When you download it, it will automatically search for the nearest church that uses it so many of you will likely see Hopkins United Methodist Church first.  You’ll have to search for “Hopkins Community Church” to get the right place.  It’s super easy and user friendly.
 

Finally,

Remember that church has not been “canceled.”  In this time, now more than ever, the world will be looking for hope and for help.  Where “hard ground” once was, we may find loosened and tilled soil.  I encourage you to continue to be in prayer, that the Holy Spirit would reveal to you the places that He is working and directing you to work as together we act as the Body of Christ here in the Hopkins community.
 
The Lord is with us!  He will never leave us or forsake us!  He will fight for us and He has sealed us as His sons and daughters for redemption, salvation, and eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord!

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