December 2004 Issue No. 92 Editor: Pete Ages www.rehoboth.ab.ca Inside: Annual General Meeting Report 2 Greetings from Stony Plain 3 Greetings from Coaldale 4 Greetings from Calgary 5 Greetings from Three Hills 6 Gifts Gratefully Received 7 Provincial Fund Razor 8 Rehoboth Offices 3920-49 Avenue Stony Plain, Alberta T7Z 2J7 (780) 963-4044 (Administration Office) Box 1312 Coaldale, Alberta T1M 1N1 (403) 345-5199 #106, 3505-29 Street N.E., Calgary, Alberta T1Y 5W4 (403) 250-7333 Box 602 Three Hills, Alberta T0M 2A0 (403) 443-2239 9899-112 Avenue Ste. 1063 Grande Prairie, Alberta T8V 7T2 (780) 532-5611 Dear Friends of Rehoboth As we approach the end of this year, celebrate and remember the birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ, it is fitting and right to reflect on God s goodness to us. As God s people, we look back at the year that has gone by and must admit that in all circumstances of our lives, God has been faithful to us. Yes, even in times of personal loss and discomfort, our Heavenly Father has sustained us by His Word and Spirit. His abiding love for us, His children, motivates each of us to want to serve Him and one another. And that is what Rehoboth Christian Ministries is all about. To do His will by showing love, care, and encouragement to those who face the challenges of living with developmental disabilities. And each one of us contributes to this task. We are interconnected. Rehoboth Christian Ministries has been truly blessed by amazing clients, dedicated staff, sound leadership, caring volunteers and strong financial support from its membership. We have grown in the number of people we serve and our facilities have expanded but the true measure of our joy is sharing the love of God in our dealings with one another. To God be all the praise and glory. Our Heavenly Father is in control and His sovereign will is perfect. My friends, on behalf of the Board, I would like to thank each one of you for the work you do on behalf of Rehoboth Christian Ministries. May God continue to bless each one of you and your families. Wishing all of you a blessed Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. Please continue to pray for the work of Rehoboth Christian Ministries. Let us encourage one another For unto us a child is born, To us a son is given, And the government will be on his shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 NIV using the words of Matthew 6:33. But seek first the kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. In His service, John Bekkering, Board President
Page 2 December 2004, Issue No. 92 Annual General Meeting Report This is the abbreviated CEO report that was handed out at the Annual General Meeting this year. I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35 The year in review As you have already heard throughout the day, Rehoboth has again been tremendously blessed by our Faithful God and Father over the past year of operations. We are blessed with a very dedicated and committed group of employees. We have recognized some of them today for their length of service at Rehoboth Christian Ministries. The fact that we have such an extensive list of employees to recognize each year indicates the loyalty our employees have to this Kingdom Ministry. You have also met the members of the Board of Directors. This group of volunteers also lives out their faith life openly and courageously in service to the Lord through their commitment to Rehoboth. These men and women constantly support me with personal encouragement and hold me, the staff, and the organization up in prayer on a regular basis. Each region in which Rehoboth provides services, with the temporary exception of Grande Prairie, has an Advisory Committee made up of volunteers and local Board member representatives. The Rehoboth Camp Ministry and the Rehoboth Gull Lake Camp also benefit from the help of Advisory Committees. It is these groups of volunteers, and the members of their sub-committees that provide the insight and advice to the Board of Directors by organizing and planning the annual summer camp program, and organizing the local fundraising events in support of Rehoboth. I would draw particular attention to the Sunshine Auxiliary in Coaldale, and the Golf Committees in Stony Plain, Calgary, and Lethbridge - groups that annually raise tens of thousands of dollars through these annual events. Rehoboth is also blessed with volunteer Contact Persons throughout the province. It is this small army of volunteers that organizes and conducts the annual membership and donation campaign each September, in addition to distributing the Newsletter. Through their enthusiasm, and that of the hundreds of volunteer canvassers they recruit each September, Rehoboth s membership base has grown steadily over the past 28 years. The 2003/04 Campaign resulted in $112,285.00 in donations and 4,964 members for a combined total of $161,925.00 in support of Rehoboth. We thank our faithful Contact Persons and Canvassers for their efforts in promoting the cause of Rehoboth throughout the province. Our summer camp program would not be possible without the commitment of hundreds of volunteers each July who give a week or more of their time to serve as directors, counselors, cooks, craft and music leaders, and chaplains. The Rehoboth Christian Ministries Foundation has also grown substantially through the generous contributions of generous donors as well as through income from properties owned by the Foundation. The Foundation received a donation of 50% of the purchase price of a home in Lethbridge and was able to purchase a home in Three Hills to insure safe, affordable housing for individuals we serve in those communities. Tax deductible donations of any size would be greatly appreciated by the Foundation, and I encourage you to remember The Rehoboth Christian Ministries Foundation when completing your estate planning. Vision for the future Rehoboth s vision for the future is clearly outlined in the Regional reports. It includes program growth and capital projects in all regions of the province in which we provide services. It includes retaining the Christian integrity of the Association. It includes retaining positive working relationships with those government departments and representatives who provide Rehoboth with the resources to offer services throughout the province. It includes being financially accountable and responsible, acting as good stewards of the resources God gives us to use in His name. It includes meeting or exceeding high levels of standards as set by Accrediting organizations. The structure of Rehoboth, and the layers of accountability built into the structure, may seem unwieldy and complex at first glance. But this accountability structure, and dependence on our Heavenly Father to work through this structure, like the very name, Rehoboth, The Lord has Made Room, has its basis in scripture. Those who are not accountable to a group of advisors will drift off. It s just a matter of when and in what direction. Proverbs 19:27 tells us, Cease listening, my son, to discipline, and you will stray from the Words of Knowledge. Our membership and volunteer base is absolutely essential to the future of Rehoboth Christian Ministries. Without it we lose our group of advisors and therefore we lose our way. Thousands of people make Rehoboth work. God makes Rehoboth possible. Together we will continue to provide safe, productive, and meaningful experiences for the individuals we call handicapped and who God calls His children.
December 2004, Issue No. 92 Page 3 MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE STONY PLAIN REGION 2004
Page 4 December 2004, Issue No. 92 Coaldale Seasons Greetings from the staff in Coaldale! NEWS FLASH!!! In February, 2005, we will be having a Benefit Concert for Coaldale s Building Fund. The Five Singing Guys, a group of professional musicians, is well known throughout the area and beyond. Due to their popularity and the demands on their time, they must be selective with who their beneficiaries will be. We are truly blessed that they have agreed to perform for us! This event will be held at Trinity Reformed Church in Lethbridge with details to be forthcoming Greetings From Coaldale At this blessed season we are especially grateful for the support from the larger Rehoboth family--be it tangible or intangible! We feel your love and prayers. The following are comments from the beneficiaries of your commitment: Alissa: You do an awesome job. Rehoboth is a great place to work. If it wasn t for you, we wouldn t have a job. Amber: It s good. Andy: Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and thanks for all you do. Art: Thank you for all your donations of yarn and fabric to fibre arts. It makes it fun to work in the weaving area. Bev: Thank you for all your support this year. It s greatly appreciated. Bill: Thank you very much. I know that without your support, Rehoboth would cease to exist. C.J.: Your support is appreciated. David: Thank you for support, you make lots of people and clients happy! You make it easier for parents and support staff to get through each day, too. Thank you and Merry Christmas. Debbie: I like the people who support us. Donna: Thanks for your help and it is very appreciated. Grant: A big thank you for all the services that you provide for me through your support. Jenn: Thank you for supporting me. Thank you for being nice people. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Joan: I like you. Joe: Thank you for all your patience and support. John K.: Thanks for your support and Merry Christmas. John S.: Thank you for all the support that you have been giving us. Kitt: Just a lot of thanks. God bless and thanks for all you give us. Have a good Christmas and a Happy New Year. Kristal: Thank you for supporting us all these years. Lars: Thank you for your cooperation. Louise: Thank you! Peter: Thank you for supporting Rehoboth. Robert: I appreciate your support. Ron B.: Please send more money. Thank you. Thank you for giving me a good job. Ron H.: To all my friends here, have a Merry Christmas and a good new year in 2005. Ronda: I enjoy their company and friendliness and I appreciate their support. I appreciate their good attitude to us. Sam: Thank you for all your help. Thank you for coming to work with us. Shawn: I like you. Thank you for everything that you give us. I like you. Yvette: Thank you for the people that give. We were saddened to accept the resignation of Mel and Phyllis Visser as members of our Sunshine Auxiliary. For many years, this couple has worked tirelessly for the greater good of Rehoboth Coaldale. The tasks that they have undertaken are far too numerous to mention but nothing was too big for them to tackle, and everything was incredibly well done. Phyllis will continue to volunteer in our greenhouse, and we know that Mel will continue to assist behind the scenes. A sincere thank you from all of us.
December 2004, Issue No. 92 Page 5 Greetings from Calgary It is hard to imagine that as this is being written there are only 38 days left until Christmas. Only 38 days left to find a tree, trim the tree, buy the presents, wrap the presents, buy the food, and cook the food. Only 38 shopping days left. but when amidst all the hustle and bustle do we take the time to really appreciate the true joys of the season. Spending time with family and friends should be on the top of everyone s holiday to do list, and what about ensuring that you celebrate the true spirit of the holidays, the birth of Christ our Lord. I have spent 5 Christmas seasons here at Rehoboth in Calgary, and something that has always Andrew dressed for Christmas LeeAnne and Karen at a Christmas Craft Sale touched my heart, something I will never forget is how all those that the Lord has entrusted to our service can somehow simplify the seasons meaning for us, and how they can always make you stop to take a moment to look at the holidays true joys. Matthew 1:23 tells us that Immanuel is translated to God With Us we must ensure we keep him with us. Lest we forget the meaning of the season, lest we forget that Jesus, who was born during this time of holiday festivity has given his life for us. In Calgary, we are celebrating the Christmas Season For current Calendar of Events check out our website: www.rehoboth.ab.ca While you re there, order some Christmas gifts! Aron, Scott and Jeff with our Annual Christmas Fair at the Administration office, but no matter how busy the planning becomes, how hectic the set up may be, we will all know that we are gathering together for fellowship at this the most wondrous, and joyous time of the year. All of the staff and clients of Rehoboth Christian Ministries Calgary send holiday greetings to you and your family. May your New Year be abundant with the blessings of our Lord. By Rhonda Hicklin Calgary Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel, which is translated, God with us. Matthew 1:23 Rehoboth Christian Ministries Mission Statement In obedience to the will of God, Rehoboth shall convey God s love to persons with disabilities and their families by making room for them through personal support, advocacy and public education and by providing them with opportunities for personal growth and meaningful participation in society.
Page 6 December 2004, Issue No. 92 Three Hills Greetings from Three Hills Christ is close to the heart of those who have invited Him into their lives. Jesus would be pleased by the birth of an event just recently begun - a bi-weekly praise and Bible study evening which is planned and led by individuals in the Three Hills Rehoboth program. They volunteer to take turns reading scripture, choosing songs for the group to sing, leading singing, praising God and praying for needs. What an honor they bring to God. Rachel and Brenda Happy are the people whose God is the Lord! Joy is a regular occurrence throughout the year whether it is through birthdays and happy gatherings, holidays, or times with family and friends. Christmas is especially anticipated whether it be for the warm and delicious food, the gifts given and received, the parties and fun plans, or the thoughts of vacations with special people and loved ones. Reindeer, elves and Santa's helpers - you can view them all at the clients' Christmas party 2003. Perhaps they feel welcome because of the clients who work at Guzoo Animal Farm and have such warm attachments to animals!! Some of our men turn from work to worship as they participate in the Christmas Pageant put on at Guzoo each year around Christmas. Leonard and Harold Interesting, creative and dedicated staff is what we have learned to expect from God's hand. God has never ceased to bring staff who have a heart after God, who view their work as a ministry more than just a "job", and are also able to laugh, cry, get excited and give a hand as the moments arise. Dedicated staff have supported clients throughout 2004 in their personal and community needs, their job and volunteer coaching, their family and friendship connections, their community interests, their vacations, their medical needs, and much more. To these supports and friends the clients say a hearty thanks. Daylen Snowflakes - if you look closely and really observe them, each one is totally unique from others, absolutely intricate in its design, and beautiful to the eye that takes time to really look. Thus it is with every individual whom God has created - each unique in character, personality, strengths and needs, looks, and emotions. Each formed by God's own loving hands and molded to the pattern that He has in His mind's eye. Each beautiful in their own special way as we come to know them, interact with them, enjoy them, and most of all love them. All snowflakes, prepared from before creation, to express an individual personality and fit in a special role in our world. Harold, Chris and Leonard Thank-you is what we say resoundingly to God, who sent His only and beloved Son to be born in a stable at Christmas - to live a life that demonstrated clearly for us who the Father is, and to die on the cross taking our sin upon Him so that we can be forgiven and have lives that are filled and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Christ is Christmas and we look forward to the worship and fellowship and the joy that permeates this season of the year. By Gaylene Archibald
December 2004, Issue No. 92 Page 7 Volunteers you need to plan ahead if you want to be on the Rehoboth Camp bus this summer. Call Pete at 780-963-4044 for more information. Gifts Gratefully Received Memorials: In Memory of Mrs. Helen Versluys In Memory of Mrs. Sophie Tuininga In Memory of Mr. Gradus Van Beek Estate of Mrs. Rose van der Ham Estate of Mr. Joe Duenk Anniversaries: Mr. & Mrs. Lepp 50th Wedding Anniversary Mr. & Mrs. Peter & Alida Van Polanen 25th Wedding Anniversary Church Donations: Bethel CRC Lacombe Bethel United Reformed Church Calgary Brooks CRC Coaldale Canadian Reformed Church Covenant CRC Edmonton Emmanuel CRC Calgary Faith Fellowship CRC Fairview First CRC Edmonton Glad Tidings CRC Edmonton Grace Reformed Church Leduc Granum CRC High River CRC Hope CRC Stony Plain Immanuel Canadian Reformed Church Edmonton Inglewood CRC Edmonton Iron Springs CRC LaGlace CRC Maranatha CRC Calgary Maranatha CRC Edmonton Maranatha CRC Lethbridge Neerlandia Canadian Reformed Church Neerlandia CRC Parkland Reformed Church Ponoka Providence Canadian Reformed Church Edmonton SonRise CRC Ponoka St. Albert Canadian Reformed Church Taber Canadian Reformed Church Taber CRC Thanksgiving collection The River Community Church Edmonton Trinity CRC Edmonton Trinity Reformed Church Lethbridge West End CRC Edmonton Woodynook CRC Lacombe Thanksgiving Collection Groups/Clubs/Societies/ Corporations: United Way of Calgary and area Reformed Women s Conference United Way of Alberta Capital Region Park Lighting Ltd. Edmonton Proceeds from Grand Opening Head Shaving fundraiser The Rehoboth Christian Ministries Foundation matched donation Edmonton Christian High School Grade 11 Service Project Lacombe CRC Seniors Tour Granum CRC Ladies Aid FINANCIAL POLICY Spending of funds is confined to Board approved programs and purchases. Each donation that is designated toward an approved program will be used as designated with the understanding that when any given need has been met, designated donations will be used where most needed. All donations are acknowledged and receipted with a tax-deductible receipt.
Page 8 December 2004, Issue No. 92 2004/2005 BOARD OF DIRECTORS John Bekkering - President Lethbridge Tony Bouma - Vice President Calgary Mike Vos - Secretary Edmonton Walter Noot - Treasurer St. Albert Sally Leder - General Alternate Spruce Grove Al Brander Calgary Jane Brouwer Lacombe Gerry Loonstra Red Deer Marianne Penner Three Hills Otto Salomons Lethbridge Barb Slomp Edmonton Annie Visser Lacombe Wally Mulder CEO/Executive Director Office: 3920-49 Avenue Stony Plain, AB T7Z 2J7 wally.mulder@rehoboth.ab.ca On September 27, 2004 Park Lighting and KVR Electric of Edmonton hosted an Open House for invited guests to celebrate their new west end location. The Johannesen family decided that they would like to use this event to also raise awareness of Rehoboth Christian Ministries and to raise funds for the development of Rehoboth s Gull Lake Camp facilities. The goal was to raise funds toward construction of a self contained and Name: Address: Provincial Fund Razor Wally presenting Park Lighting and KVR Electric staff with a plaque to commemorate this event. wheel chair accessible cabin at Rehoboth Gull Lake Camp. To that end, they challenged their staff and guests to get buzzed for Rehoboth, committing $1,000.00 per head to the cause. Matching funds were committed by the Rehoboth Foundation and by the Rehoboth Christian Ministries general fund. In a three hour period, 50 individuals voluntarily sat in one of two barber chairs and had their heads buzzed by volunteer hairdressers Renee DeVries and Marjorie Van- Dasselaar. One prime condition was that Victor Johannesen of Park Lighting and Wally Mulder, CEO of Rehoboth Christian Ministries, were also to sacrifice their flowing manes to the cause. There were also several items on the showroom floor donated by Park Lighting for silent auction with proceeds given to Rehoboth Christian Ministries. With matching funds and proceeds from the silent auction, a total of $101,670.00 was raised that evening for Rehoboth Gull Proof positive of Victor Johannesen and Wally Mulder living up to their commitment. Lake Camp! We gratefully acknowledge the generosity of Park Lighting and KVR Electric, and to all those who temporarily live their lives with shorn heads. City: Postal Code: Church Attending: Special Cause: $ Membership: ($10.00/membership) $ Donation: $ REHOBOTH ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN The campaign is wrapping up! If you have not been contacted by one of the volunteer canvassers in your church and would like to contribute and renew your Rehoboth Membership, please fill in the form on the left. Note: Income tax receipts will be issued for all donations received by Dec. 31, 2004