Comments for Central Reformed Church

Comment on Sacraments by Nancy Claus - Central Member and Western Theological Seminarian

Nancy Claus - Central Member and Western Theological Seminarian — Wed, 06 May 2009 20:16:58 +0000

In some Protestant churches in North America, the communion table and the baptismal font are completely absent within the worshiping space of the congregation. This is a terrible loss! We, at Central, fully understand that the sacraments are a form of the Word of God that are given uniquely to our worshiping community. They are placed “front and center” in the Chancel. That’s exactly where they need to be!

Thank you, Pastor Karen for inviting me to share these important words concerning our treasures of the Christian faith!

Comment on Don VanderJagt Memorial by Barb Jourdan

Barb Jourdan — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 02:17:19 +0000

I am delighted to have known Don. He was a wonderful person and I am blessed to have been in his presence.

Comment on Don VanderJagt Memorial by Central

Central — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 20:19:53 +0000

VANDERJAGT - Donald W. VanderJagt, age 71, of Jenison, went to be with his Lord on Tuesday, March 10, 2009. He was born on February 25, 1938 in Muskegon to Clarence and Beatrice VanderJagt. Don loved his family dearly and adored his grandchildren. His memory will be cherished by his wife, Barbara (Sonnega) VanderJagt; his children and grandchildren, Dr. Nancy and Doug MacDonald (Rachel, Doug, and Michael), Susan and John Fullington (William and Wesley), Dr. Rebecca and Eric Slotegraaf (Claire and Emily), Doug and Dr. Dorothy VanderJagt (Dylan); sister, Carol and George Schaalma and their daughter Sandra and Don North; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Orville and Nelly Elema, Russell and Marie Stults. Dr. VanderJagt graduated from Hope College in 1959, received his Masters in Mathematics from Florida State University and his Ph.D. in Mathematics from Western Michigan University. As well as Professor Emeritus at Grand Valley State University where he taught for 42 years, he also taught at Central College in Iowa for 2 years. At the community level, he served as chairman of the Math Department for 25 years and Faculty Representative to the Athletic Department at Grand Valley State University. He was President of FARA for the NCAA Division I, II, III. He also served on the Jenison Public School Board for 24 years, and as president for 8 years. Dr. VanderJagt was a member of Central Reformed Church where he sang in the choir and was actively involved in the RCA. He was the past president of South Grand Rapids Classis and the Regional Synod of the Great Lakes. Funeral services will be held Saturday 11:00 a.m. at Central Reformed Church, 10 College Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, with Dr. Louis Lotz officiating. Interment Georgetown Township Cemetery. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Dr. Donald and Barbara VanderJagt Mathematics and Athletics Scholarship at Grand Valley State University or Addie’s Food Pantry of Central Reformed Church. Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville), 4145 Chicago Drive. Condolences may be sent online at: http://www.mkdfuneralhome.com. Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf

Comment on Louise Visser Memorial by Central

Central — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 22:05:46 +0000

VISSER - Louise Visser, aged 88, a resident of Porter Hills Village, went to be with her Lord on Monday, February 16, 2009. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Eric Dykhouse, her sisters, Jean Romence and Pearl VanDussen and her brother, Richard Vlasblom. She is survived by her husband, Rev. John W. Visser; her children, Jack and Bonnie Dykhouse of Colleyville, TX, James and Nancy Dykhouse of Atlanta, GA. and Douglas and Anne Klein of Hastings, MI. Also surviving are her 10 grandchildren; several great grandchildren and her twin sister, Dorothy Mieras. The funeral service will be held on Thursday at 2:00 p.m. in the Meeting House of Porter Hills Village, 3600 E. Fulton with the Rev. Timothy Dieffenbach and the Rev. Melody Johnson officiating. Burial in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the time of service. Memorial Contributions to the Benevolent Fund of Porter Hills would be appreciated. The family is being served by: Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service

Published in the Grand Rapids Press on 2/18/2009

Comment on Phyllis Blok Memorial by Central

Central — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 21:50:08 +0000

BLOK - Phyllis Joyce Blok, age 86, of Grand Rapids, went home to be with her Lord on January 3, 2009 after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s and recent complications of surgery. Phyllis was married for 62 years to and will be sadly missed by her husband, James H. Blok. She was born in Spring Lake, MI on January 17, 1922 and lived most of her life in Grand Rapids. She graduated from Catholic Central H.S. in 1938 and in her 50’s went on to earn her LPN degree. She was a longtime member of Central Reformed Church. She served others through various guilds and charities in the community. She was an avid golfer and duplicate bridge player for many years with her husband, Jim. Her children and grandchildren were blessed to have a mother and grandmother who bestowed upon them the meaning of love, family and community. She will be fondly remembered though deeply missed by all of them. Phyllis’ mother, father, and brother preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband, James; her children, Judith (Ronald) Rinehart of Des Moines, Iowa, Jim (Jill) Blok, Phillip, Steve, John (Betsy) Blok all of Grand Rapids and her special daughter, JoAnne Blok of Grand Rapids; 10 grandchildren and four great grandchildren. The Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, January 6 at 3:00 p.m. at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 4292 Cascade Rd., S.E. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time. Memorial Contributions to the Salvation Army would be appreciated. Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service

Published in the Grand Rapids Press on 1/5/2009

Comment on Vaparaiso University Chorale by Central

Central — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 19:37:58 +0000

Jessica,

Thanks for your question. All of the Barker concerts are free will offering only. Just be sure to come a bit early to get the best seats!

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Rev. Curry Pikkaart

Rev. Curry Pikkaart — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 22:00:38 +0000

I have just read of Barb’s passing on the RCA website - I am stunned. My deepest condolences to you as family. I always admired Barb as a person of strength, integrity, character, and commitment. She exmplified in extraordinary ways what it means to love, serve, and walk humbly with her Lord. She always greeted me warmly and I counted it a privilege to be not only a colleague but also to be considered a friend. She will be deeply missed by more than any of us will ever know.

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Dave and Karen Custer

Dave and Karen Custer — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 16:05:35 +0000

Dear Pekich Family:
Sorry we didn’t get a chance to see you after your Mom’s funeral on
Saturday. We wanted to tell you how much we dearly loved your Mom for her work, her passion, her kindness, her smile, her tender
and caring personality, her laugh, her love of life, her hugs, her
always making sure she gave our three boys a handshake and smile in Church and her optimism towards life. She was such a role model and we will always remember her! Our love to you all…Dave and Karen Custer

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Sally and Dan Meeuwsen

Sally and Dan Meeuwsen — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 18:39:16 +0000

Dear Edie, Bill, Rob, & Jen, & Helen;

You are in our thoughts and prayers at your time of sadness. It is always too soon to say good-bye. Even though there is releif at the end of great suffering, that does not dim your sorrow. It is going to take time for you to reach out to life again. But have faith that a happier day will come and remember there are many who care about you.

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Jan Atwood

Jan Atwood — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 18:20:02 +0000

Dear Helen, Edie, Bill, Rob, & Jen,
My heart has been with all of you this past week and will continue with prayers and healing energy for you, too, as the weeks go on.

I was so glad that Andy & I were able to see Barb on Christmas Day and give her our love. She was able to converse, eat chocolate, respond to some healing energy and reminisce with us about our shared experiences over the years. Her sense of humor shone through it all!

The Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi graces our wall and I believe that Barb lived this prayer out on a daily basis. Here’s to you, Barb!

Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.

Amen.

Peace & Blessings to you, her beloved family,
Jan Atwood

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Charlotte Ellison

Charlotte Ellison — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 08:37:01 +0000

I had the privilege of spending the day calling people who have been friends of Heartside, not wanting anyone to learn of Barb’s passing through an (albeit beautiful) obituary. What I heard was story upon story of how Barb had touched their lives, about friendships forged in the crucible of their suffering and Barb’s tender and compassionate presence with each as they sat on the mourner’s bench. One said how understanding and kind Barb was when their son died of AIDS, at a time when not many people were either understanding or kind about such a loss. Another said she was keeping “very, very busy” because she had been a very bad addict and Barb had probably saved her life. Those stories continued throughout the day. I have seen the love Barb has earned in the tears of the Neighbors at Heartside as they gathered to console one another and remember how she had become the face of Jesus Christ to them–even as she once said she had seen her Savior’s face in that of a neighbor, newly bloodied by a beating.

To me, Barb was a seminary fellow, a colleague whom I always admired a friend with a delicious sense of humor and one tough cookie when it came to looking out for the underdog. I could not have guessed just how profound an impact her life had made or how broadly and deeply loved she has become. What a well-lived life. What a friend of God and servant of mankind.

My love to her beloved family, whom she has so gifted and commissioned with her values and faith, as to be a living legacy and witness to the love of God that so animated their mom.

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Jill Vande Zande

Jill Vande Zande — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 02:57:13 +0000

To the entire Pekich family:

You are in my thoughts and prayers as you deal with the loss of Barb. No words are adequate for the pain that you are experiencing, and I know comfort will be long in coming, but we trust our gracious, wonderful, and loving God who says that weeping may last for a night, but joy DOES come in the morning. I pray that God administers the peace that passes all understanding to your hearts and minds as you journey through the days ahead. Know that you are being lifted up!

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Vicki & Jim Hill

Vicki & Jim Hill — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 20:54:52 +0000

We, too, were members of Central with Barb and Bill , all of us with growing families. We renewed acquaintance with Barb at Heartside, and the years flew by as she served, led, and expanded its community to family including so many of us through outreach to supporters. I saw words attributed to martyred Archbishop Oscar Romero as I came to my computer ~ they so fit Barb in tribute to her work,ministries, prophetic outlook.

Nothing we do is complete, which is a way of saying
that the kingdom always lies beyond us.
No statement says all that could be said.
No prayer fully expresses our faith.
No confession brings perfection.
No pastoral visit brings wholeness.
No program accomplishes the church’s mission.
No set of goals and objectives includes everything.

This is what we are about.
We plant the seeds that one day will grow.
We water seeds already planted,
knowing that they hold future promise.
We lay foundations that will need further development.
We provide yeast that produces far beyond our capabilities.
We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of liberation
in realizing that. This enables us to do something,
and to do it very well. It may be incomplete,
but it is a beginning, a step along the way,
an opportunity for the Lord’s grace to enter and do the rest.
We may never see the end results, but that is the difference
between the master builder and the worker.
We are workers, not master builders; ministers, not messiahs.
We are prophets of a future not our own.

Attributed to Archbishop Oscar Romero
(actually written by Bishop Ken Untener)

In thankfulness for Barb’s life; as consolation for her beloved families and friends, we celebrate her entry into that kingdom beyond our earthly vision. May she be welcomed with the warmth and love she always extended to others.

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Diana Walker (Paulsen)

Diana Walker (Paulsen) — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 19:50:57 +0000

Many years ago I was a member at Central Reformed Church. The community of faith that I experienced at that time has never been repeated. Worship and service and fellowship were all rolled into one as we lived out, daily, our “Jesus Is Lord” benediction. People were at the center of our world and into that world came Barb and Bill Peckich. I can remember the day little Edie was born!
In the midst of that joy, our family moved away but I always kept track of what was going on at Central. I was so pleased when Barb decided to go to Seminary and thought, at the time, what a perfect fit. When she moved to Heartside, I found myself nodding and saying, “But, of course.” Barb had natural gifts for ministry. Her mercy skills went off the charts. Barb was the embodiment of the benediction and now, knows fully, the Jesus who is our Lord. My love and blessings to her family and friends.

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Patty Duthler

Patty Duthler — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 17:25:43 +0000

The whole community grieves with the Pekich and Phillips families over the heartbreaking loss of our beloved Barb! I rejoice that she is home now with Jesus and has rejoined her husband, mother, and father. I first met Bill and Barb at Central Reformed Church, where friendship extended into loyal patronage of our car dealerships. I always valued the trust they placed in our business, and loved helping them in such a practical way. When Barb started attending Western Theological Seminary and then working as an intern at Heartside Ministries, I was serving on its Board of Directors. I watched her advocate for the poor and powerless, even laying her own integrity on the line for the cause of justice. Barb reared four great kids, was a devoted sister, and a fun and treasured friend. She lived a life of faithful service to her Creator, persevering despite great personal pain and loss. Praise God that we will see Barb again. . .

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Donna Marie Post

Donna Marie Post — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 16:07:24 +0000

When I joined Central Reformed Church, I remember Barbara as an inspiring role model and leader. These qualities carried over when I again had the privilege of working with her through Heartside Ministries. I also remember her being a good square dancer. I am truly sorry.

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Marjorie Brink

Marjorie Brink — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 04:11:18 +0000

Our deepest sympathy goes out to all of you as members of Barb’s family. We always admired Barb’s sense of doing what was “right” despite the controversy that could ensue. Her legacy will live on forever and she will be missed.

I Cor. 15:51-52

Sincerely,

Marge and Jim Brink

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Beth Rowell

Beth Rowell — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 03:03:39 +0000

I have such fond memories of Barb and her kids when Jim and I were in small group with Barb.My son Josh. remembers Bill Jr. so well and I shared this sad news today with him.She endured so much with her sudden single parenting role and was such a testimony to all who were single parents as myself.She did a wonderful job with her kids and what a tremendous model.She was loved by all and tender-hearted and compassionate.Her memory will live on with her kids who she left such a wonderful legacy.She sits with greats like Bud Ridder in Heaven today.My love to Helen and the kids.Bill,Josh sends his condolances.Sincerely with Christ’s love, Beth Rowell,former member of Central.

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Elise Roe and family

Elise Roe and family — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 20:40:51 +0000

What profound sadness I feel after learning of Barb’s passing. Since visiting her last Friday, I have been thinking of all the memories I have going way back to my freshman year at Alma. Barb was probably THE first person I met at Alma (since she was my Resident Advisor) and it didn’t take long for us to form a great bond of friendship. I remember clearly as if it were yesterday all the great times we shared that year, the pranks we pulled on Barb as freshmen and how she took it all in stride. I have always had such admiration for her…for her humor, her intelligence, her ability to get things done and for her confidence in what she believed. Barb (and Bill) were instrumental in introducing us to Central Reformed Church 10 years after we first met at Alma. There were many years of raising our kids together in the church, working together on committees and supporting each other through those times. Later, there was her influence on Tom and me to volunteer at Heartside teaching Sunday School. While we had drifted apart in recent years, I am thankful for all the wonderful memories of time spent with Barb. She was such a role model for me and I would often think that if I was unable to get something done, Barb would surely be able to do it. Our whole family is deeply saddened and her memory will live on in our hearts. This is a tribute to one great lady!

Comment on Rev. Barb Pekich Memorial by Doreen Bolhuis

Doreen Bolhuis — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 19:53:50 +0000

I became acquainted with Barb when we participated in a theology discussion group through Central Reformed Church. I appreciated Barb’s compassionate heart, spiritual insight, heart of service, and great sense of humor. I am praying for comfort for her dear sister, Helen, her children, and extended family. May God keep you all in His care during this difficult time.

Comment on Prayer Beads for Protestants by Duncan Maclean (teacher's pet)

Duncan Maclean (teacher's pet) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 03:02:07 +0000

The first class was fascinating. I had no idea how many religious traditions used prayer beads.

Comment on Chancel Choir by Jennifer O'Toole

Jennifer O'Toole — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 14:35:29 +0000

Your choir is superb! They are a dedicated group that is lucky to have you as their director.
Keep up the good work,
Jennifer O’Toole
A visitor

Comment on Sermon Archive by JANE AND JOHN DAMON

JANE AND JOHN DAMON — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 23:09:52 +0000

I HOPE THIS GETS TO DR LOTZ. WE ARE AT OUR CABIN 3 MILES INLAND FROM LAKE SUPERIOR. I AM USING THE MUNISING BAPTIST CHURCH INTERNET. (I TELL THEM I AM A MISSIONARY TO THE BAPTISTS.) PICTURED ROCKS IS THE NORTH AND WEST BOUNDARY OF OUR LAND. WE APPRECIATE THE AUGUST WORDS OF HOPE WRITING AND COMMENTS BY DR LOTZ. WE ATTEND FOURTH REFORMED CHURCH IN GRAND RAPIDS.

Comment on Calendar by todd

todd — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 18:22:36 +0000

if you’re new to this and are having a tough time reading it, try clicking the “Agenda” tab on the top right corner of the calendar… That puts everything on the calendar as a list instead of smooshing it all into the small blocks of the calendar format, and it’s easier to find what one needs…at least for certain youth workers

Comment on News by David Veldt

David Veldt — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 10:34:29 +0000

Central Family,

As some of you may now I am currently pursueing a career as a Navy Chaplain. I am curently in Newport Rhode Island as I am attending Officer Development School. Thank you for all your support and continued prayer as I make it through the remaining few days, and make my way back for my final year at seminary.

-David Veldt

Comment on Sermon Archive by Stephen Cornelius

Stephen Cornelius — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 04:54:31 +0000

We try to upload all our sermons the day they are recorded.

To hear the sermons, click on the date. That should open up the sound file for you to listen to.

- Stephen C

Comment on Sermon Archive by Julie Hendrickson

Julie Hendrickson — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 01:25:32 +0000

How frequently do you update your sermons available to listen to online? I would love to hear the most recent ones. The only one I can listen to is from 1-27-08.

Comment on History by Dan Ballast

Dan Ballast — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 01:08:12 +0000

The church was destroyed by fire on February 10, 1953. For your information, both First and Second Reformed Churches, the two churches that united in 1918 to become Central lost churches to fire - First on May 3, 1872, and Second on May 25, 1895.

Comment on History by MICHAEL H. EMAUS

MICHAEL H. EMAUS — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 17:15:22 +0000

HI, I AM AN OLD MEMBER AND WAS AT THE FIRE THAT DESTROYED THE CHURCH AT FOUNTAIN AND BARKLEY. CAN YOU TELL ME WHAT YEAR THAT CHURCH BURNED DOWN. A GROUP OF US WERE TALKING ABOUT THAT MONDAY. THANK YOU.

Comment on Protected: Children’s Ministry Team by Brian

Brian — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:18:00 +0000