Unity Christian High School5900 48th AvenueHudsonville, MI 49426Phone: 616.669.1820Fax: 616.669.5760Website: www.unitychristian.org

Development Office5340 Plaza, Suite 3Hudsonville, MI 49426Phone: 616.662.4011Fax: 616.662.4006Email: development@unitychristian.org

1 WhyChristianEducation?

2 CelebratingtheClassof2017 Senior Awards Dinner Class Trip Graduation

4 HearttoHeart Remember Her... A Mother's Request

6 StudentLife Tulip Time 2017 Spring Sports Update

7 News&Notes Calling All Veterans 2017 Sader 6v6 The Tidings Now Available by Email

8 Faith,Excellence&Service The UC Inclusive Education Program

10 DevelopmentNews Celebration Banquet 2017 Recap Buy-A-Brick Program Banquet Underwriters Building Unity-Update Scrap Metal Drive Giving to Christian Education

12 InTheSpotlight Mr. Bob Bakker, UC English Teacher

14 AlumniNews

16 ReviveNews Hello Summer Event

JUNE 2017 TIDINGSUnity Christian high sChool

Faith, ExCEllEnCE, sErviCE

On Wednesday, May 17 Unity Christian held graduation where we honored 168 young adults and celebrated their high school journey with them, their families, and friends. Their journey of high school has ended, but the journey God has planned will unfold for each individual as they seek their calling and serve in Christ’s kingdom. While there is great joy there is also the uncertainties that lie ahead. The good news is that our young people can take heart in this passage from Philippians 1:6 where it states, Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

The vast majority of these students have attended a Christian school since kindergarten. Their parents made a commitment many years ago to be obedient in raising their children in the Lord in all areas of life. Each parent yearns for their child to claim Christ as their own, and so it makes sense to have their children learn each subject from a Christian perspective surrounded by teachers and fellow students who also claim Christ as their Lord. Christian education is a choice and making that choice takes a bold commitment.

Why would someone use so much of their resources to send their children to Christian schools? There are those who say, “I can teach my child about God at home.” Or others who state, “That is why we go to church.” And some will tell you, “My children can shine the light of Christ in their school.” While all these

statements are true, I suggest this response: “Who is filling the void in your child’s life when you or the church is not there?”

Each year when we hold graduation there are always parents who will for the last time have a child attending a Christian school. For some, Christian schools have been a part of their life for over 20 years. Why would a family choose Christian education for 20+ years, and pay tuition that added together is in the hundreds of thousands of dollars? Well, I was curious… so I took the time to ask a few people to provide a brief reflection of why Christian education is important to them. Each of these families have been involved in Christian education for 15 to 25+ years.

Why Christian education?

We have had all four of our children attend Christian school. The only way we could keep our children in a Christian school was by the grace of God. It is simple—our Heavenly Father gave His only Son to die for us and to give us eternal life. Why would we think God would not provide for Christian education, knowing how important it is for my child to know Him? We were, by no means, financially able to afford Christian education. And, yes, it was scary making this commitment. But, growing in faith takes trust, and we knew if we desired to have our children grow in faith we needed to trust that we could enroll them in a Christian school. It has been a privilege to have our children attend Christian schools. We have been blessed beyond what words

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Why Christian Education?

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Celebrating The Class of 2017

As we celebrate the Class of 2017—Unity’s 63rd Graduating Class—we share this pictorial reflection of their final days at Unity. May these days of fellowship with classmates be sweet memories that they will take with them into the next chapters of their lives…

On May 15, more than 150 Unity seniors and a few staff members took off on the senior class trip to the Kalahari Waterpark in Sandusky, Ohio. The waterpark, which is the largest indoor waterpark in the US, features many raft rides, slides, pools, hot tubs, and a lazy river. After spending much of the day in the waterpark, everyone finished the day playing glow-in-the-dark mini golf, laser tag, and mini bowling before g r a b b i n g dinner and leaving for Unity.

Thursday, May 11SeniorDinner&Awards

Monday, May 15ClassTripFunKalahari Water Park, Sandusky OH

Brian Knot with William VanZytveld, Jonah Lenters, and Allie Leerar

Cyndi Post with Michelle Eberlein

Congratulations Seniors!

Dan Sanders with Mitchell Sall and Alec Crumb

Gideon DeGraaf, Connor Ymker and Logan Schimmel

Jerry DeGroot and Dan Landstra with Katrina Goebel and Mitchell Dykstra

Lindsey Hoekman, Katlyn Koetsier, Samantha Bosma, Rose Thompson, and

Charisssa Hasper

Wednesday, May 17, 2017

GraduationUC Gym/Multipurpose Room

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Opening Address with Mr. Jerry DeGroot

Mr. Craig Flietstra with Adam VanderWal

Mr. Bob Bakker addresses the class of 2017

Zachary Stanton, Alec Crumb (behind Zach), Joe Tanis (on the right)

Katrina Goebel, Danny Jensen and DJ Sayumwe

Graduation Choir

Jordyn Brill, Lauren Gulker, Carly Geers

Students gather prior to the processional

Cassandra Helms, Lauren Gulker, Aliya Talsma, Ellie Schreur and Miranda Byl

UC Strings

Emily Anderson, Jae’l Brinks, Kristin Bremer, Katelyn Rookus Josiah Huisman, Sam DeMey, Joshua Bussis,

Taylor Krygsheld

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Heart to Heart

"...Please remember Jenna when you read it.""I will read it tonight... I give you my word. Thank you

for taking this time to talk with me."

Remember Her...AMother'sRequest

It was October 1995 – my first year at Unity. On this night, the Unity parent community gathered with teachers for first semester’s conferences. Entering the North Gym lobby on the Oak Street campus of Unity, parents were greeted with an inviting smile and a hand shake from Mr. Bruce Hulst, Unity’s Director of Instruction (at that time):

“Welcome! Name tags are on the table for you. Help yourself to some coffee and have a wonderful evening!”

The low buzz that accompanies dozens of conversations filled the gym. Parents, with student schedules and progress cards in hand, scanned the expanse of the gym, figuring out the most efficient way to see the teachers on their schedule. While some parents visited every teacher together, others split up the task, each parent taking half of the teachers they needed to see.

Long-time Unity teachers welcomed parents they knew well, having taught all their children. New teachers like me, looked over a gym full of people of whom we only knew a handful. As a first-year Unity Bible teacher, I was nervous.

Questions raced through my mind… “Have I done a good job so far this year?” “I’m only 25 years old—do they think I’m too young?” “Do they know, do they believe I want the best for their child?” “What if I get a question I am not sure how to answer?” “I have my younger brother in class. How hard will my mom be on me?!”

Kathy (not her real name) waited patiently. She would pass near my table, look for how many people were in line, then continue walking around the gym. She stopped to chat with other parents and teachers, but the routine of passing by my table continued. I didn’t know Kathy, so I wasn’t sure if she needed to see me or if she wondered whether her child was in my class.

The line of parents by each teacher diminished as the evening drew closer to a conclusion. By 8:55 p.m. there were only a handful of parents left in the gym. I was standing by my table, thinking, “I am finished for the evening.”

Kathy walked by again. This time she stopped. “Hi, Mr. Landstra. Do you have a few minutes?”

“Sure. Have a seat!” We greeted each other with a handshake… “My name is Kathy,” she said. “I am Jenna’s mom.”

“Jenna’s Mom!” I thought to myself. The nervousness I experienced prior to the start of conferences flooded back as Kathy sat down to discuss Jenna and her Bible class.

Jenna (not her real name) was a junior in 1995. On the first day of class I stood outside the classroom door to greet my new students. Jenna came

in with a group of friends. I gave an enthusiastic, “Good morning, guys!”

The group broke conversation, looked at their new teacher, smiled and replied with a quick, “Morning!” as they entered the room. But not Jenna. She never looked up. Never smiled. Never slowed down. Jenna just walked on by.

It became clear within the first few days of class that Jenna was not interested at all in what we were doing in Bible class. Jenna gave me “the look” from the first day. It was an unmistakable, closed-lips, fixed-eyes glare. I understood the look to mean, “I dare you to teach me in this class. If you think I care, I don’t.” Honestly, it was intimidating!

In her writings, my interpretation of “the look” was verified. She questioned God’s existence. She questioned God’s love. She questioned church. She questioned Christian Schools. She questioned everything!

Jenna’s comments in class followed suit. Whenever her hand went up, I knew a challenge, disagreement, or point of contention was coming:

“I don’t agree with that at all!” “How do you know that?” “You can’t prove that.” “That’s dumb.”

After nearly two months of Jenna in class, I was discouraged. As a first-year teacher I wasn’t sure what to do. Everything I tried—debate, conversation, written notes on assignments and tests, even arguing with her—didn’t seem to produce any results. (I have since learned that “Arguing never produces results!”)

Now Jenna’s mother was sitting across the table from me. The knot in my stomach reminded me of how I felt at times when Jenna was in class.

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More questions raced through my mind: “Is Kathy going to give me 'the look' too?” “Is she upset with Jenna’s experience in Bible class?” “Will she question my ability to teach?” “I wonder if Jenna tells her about Bible class?”

Kathy sensed my anxiety. She didn’t give me “the look”. Instead, Kathy’s eyes, her welcoming smile and calm voice put me more at ease. Kathy leaned forward, put her elbows on the table, folded her hands over them and asked, “Dan, how are things going with Jenna?”

There was no doubt “things” were not going well. I decided to tell Kathy exactly what I was seeing, hearing, and experiencing in class with Jenna. As I told the story of Jenna’s resistance to nearly everything taught in class, Kathy listened intently.

Finally, I said, “I’m just not sure what to do. I’m sorry to say that because I really want to make a difference. Right now, though, Jenna is fighting me on everything.”

Kathy nodded as I spoke with the wisdom of a mother who knew her child.

“What can I do?” I asked Kathy. “Is there any advice you have for me or something you believe I should do differently?”

Kathy took her elbows off the table, thought for a moment and said, “Dan, the girl you are describing in class is the girl we live with at home, too. She has always been the child in our family who challenges us on nearly everything. She is a strong-willed young lady.” Then she leaned back in and said with a laugh, “She gets that from her father!”

I was thankful for her humor. It broke the tension.

“We want you to understand this has been a pattern for Jenna through much of her life,” Kathy continued. “Right now, her questioning has expanded to her faith. Her dad and I are very concerned, too. You are not doing

anything wrong with her. We support all of her teachers at Unity.”

I was relieved to hear that. I knew every teacher at Unity wants to impact the students in their classes. “So,” I asked, “is there anything I can do or try that might help in connecting with Jenna?”

Kathy didn’t hesitate. “Yes. There are two things you can do for her. First, pray for her that she will be able to see what she is not able to see right now.”

Kathy spoke with strong conviction, believing prayer makes a real difference in the lives of God’s people. Tears filled her eyes as she continued, “And, second, when you get home tonight, Dan, I would like you to read II Timothy 2:23-26. It is a prayer we have for all of Jenna’s teachers but, right now, particularly her Bible teachers. I would like to ask you to think of Jenna

and remember her when you read it.”

“I will read it tonight… I give you my word. Thank you for taking time to talk with me.”

I wasn’t sure what this passage said, but its importance was obviously notable for Kathy.

“Thank you, Dan! Let us know if you have any more questions or concerns.”

Kathy left the gym. I packed up my things and headed back to my classroom. I immediately looked up II Timothy 2:23-26. I recognized the passage… I had heard it many times before. But now, because of Jenna and the request from her mother, I read it with eyes opened in a new way. I understood why the passage meant so much to Kathy in relation to Jenna.

I read it over several times. Through

conferences, a challenging student, and a wise parent, God was giving me—a first-year teacher—a deeper understanding of what it means to teach in a Christian school and minister to His children.

II Timothy 2:23-26: Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape the trap of the devil who has taken them captive to do his will.

Jenna continued to challenge, question, argue and resist for the two years she was in my Bible classes.

However, after the conversation with Kathy, I worked at seeing Jenna and all Unity students from a different perspective.

Students’ faith and understanding may not be where we would like, but God uses Unity in the process of working all things out in His time – guiding each student to seek and find “a knowledge of the

truth.”

On May 17, the Class of 2017—made up of 168 seniors—graduated from Unity. Among this class are many who have made a commitment to follow Christ. Their intention is to live in faith, with excellence, and for service. And, among this class are some—like Jenna—who are unsure about a commitment to Christ. The challenges of life and a broken world make it difficult for them to bridge the gap between living in faith and their questions, doubts, and fears.

At Unity, we believe God pursues each of His children to eternity. Each day our pursuit remains the same: “Allow all students to have multiple encounters with God through every class, chapel, extracurricular activity, and service opportunity.”

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A Story In Pictures...Once again UC's Color Guard and Marching Band participated in a tradition... The Tulip Time Parades!

BaseballVarsity 12 – 15Junior Varsity 18 – 8 Freshman 14 – 6 – 2

GolfVarsity 6 – 151st, 4th, 2nd, 4th, 2nd in League JamboreesJunior Varsity 3 – 1

LacrosseBoys (with Holland Christian H.S.) 8 – 6Girls (with Hudsonville H.S.) 6 – 10

SoccerVarsity 12 – 0 – 3Junior Varsity 7 – 7 – 1

SoftballVarsity 26 – 4Co-OK Green Conference Champions TEAM ACADEMIC ALL STATE AWARDJunior Varsity 26 – 2

TennisVarsity 1 – 56th in the OK Green ConferenceALL CONFERENCE: Jenna Darby TEAM ACADEMIC ALL STATE AWARDJunior Varsity 8 – 7

TrackBoys 0 – 67th in the OK Green ConferenceALL CONFERENCE: Gideon DeGraafGirls 0 – 67th in the OK Green ConferenceALL CONFERENCE: Katlyn Koetsier

2017SpringSportsUpdate

Student Life

TulipTimeHolland Michigan

Tennis – Kelli Levering JV Baseball – Ryan TakensSoftball – Ellie Borst

Golf – Ben Byker

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2017Sader6v6Friday&Saturday,July28&29Unity will be hosting the 2017 Sader 6 v 6 on July 28 and 29, 2017. Age groups run from younger youth to college and open divisions. For more information and registration visit www.unitychristianathletics.org and click on the Boosters tab then 6 v 6. If you have any questions, please contact Nick Balcer at nbalcer@unitychristian.org or by phone at 616.662.4011.

TheTidingsisNowAvailablebyEmail!If you would like to personally receive the Tidings directly into your email inbox, simply contact Nick Balcer at nbalcer@unitychristian.org, or call the Development Office at 616.662.4011. We will be happy to add you to our group list!

Note: The Tidings will still be available on the UC webpage as well, under “News & Events”.

CallingAllVeterans...And all who are currently serving in the US Armed Forces ~ WE WANT YOU in our Database for future Veterans Day Assemblies! Last year’s event was such a success that we will be continuing our Assemblies in honor of our Unity Community Veterans/Armed Forces Personnel! Please note that we will NOT be having an assembly this year (November 2017), but do plan to host these events every other year! So, in order to include as many veterans and those currently serving as well, we need to make sure our database is complete! If we do not have you currently included in our list of Veterans and/or currently serving, please contact the Development Office at 616.662.4011 or email development@unitychristian.org to submit your mailing address and military service information. (Note: If you participated in last year’s Veterans Day Assembly in November 2016 then we already have your information and you do not need to resubmit it.) Thank you for helping us honor your service in this way!

We are thankful for the opportunity to participate in the lifetime process of spiritual development as we “gently instruct…leading them to a knowledge of the truth” so they might seek a relationship with God by the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ.

Epilogue: November 2016…

“Mr. Landstra? Hi!” I turned to see a young woman with two children walking up behind me in line at a store. With bright eyes and a welcoming smile, she reached out to shake my hand.

“Do you remember me?”

(“Do I remember you?” I thought to myself… “How could I forget!”) I extended my hand to meet hers and said, “Jenna! Wow! I haven’t seen you for a long time!”

“I know. It’s been over 20 years since I graduated. I saw you standing here so I wanted to say ‘Hi’.”

Memories flooded back… I thought of Jenna in high school and how she dug in and resisted her parents, her teachers, and God. I thought of Kathy, that first parent-teacher conference, then reading II Timothy and the thousands of students who heard me read those amazing words in Bible class every year after 1995. The Jenna standing next to me gave no indication of the Jenna who left Unity twenty years ago.

“It’s really good to see you, Jenna!”

She turned to her kids. “Guys, this is Mr. Landstra. He was my Bible teacher in high school.”

We only spent a few minutes together in line. During that brief time, Jenna mentioned two items. She was very proud that her kids were enrolled in a Christian school. Jenna and her husband were grateful for what their kids were learning. The second item Jenna mentioned came as we said goodbye.

“Thank you, Jenna for saying ‘Hi’. It is great to see you after all these years.”

“You, too Mr. Landstra. Enjoy the holidays!”

I started to walk away. “Mr. Landstra!”

I stopped and turned to look at Jenna. She was smiling in a way I never saw in high school. “Thanks for not giving up on me.”

In Your Time In Your Time

You make all things beautiful in Your time Lord, please show me every day, As you’re teaching me your way That you do just what you say

In Your time.(From the song, In His Time, by Diane Ball, 1978;

based on Ecclesiastes 3:11)

From the front row… Dan Landstra

Unity Bible Teacher

Heart to Heart (continued from page 5)

News & Notes

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Special Feature: Faith, Excellence & Service

As methods of instruction in the education landscape continue to change, schools and education systems have created and sustained comprehensive programs to serve their students in many ways. Under the umbrella of the Educational Support Services (ESS), Unity offers students skill-specific programs like the Careerline Tech Center (which helps prepare students for the fields of Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Healthcare, and PC & Network Technology). Also offered are the Advanced Placement courses (which help prepare and qualify students for college credits in History, English Language and Literature, AP Spanish, etc.)

Another key program under ESS is the Inclusive Education Program. This program serves students with cognitive impairments and severe learning disabilities. The program focuses on three key areas: 1) inclusive classes; 2) special education; and, 3) life-centered education – all adapted per each student’s needs. Through each of these areas, the students increase their faith, experience community, maximize their gifts and talents, and are prepared for life after high school. After four years at Unity, students earn a Certificate of High School completion that allows them to transition to a Community-Based Instruction (CBI) program, Project Search through Spectrum Health, or open a case with Michigan Rehabilitation Services.

In the inclusive classes segment of the program, students attend classes with

their peers but use adapted materials and testing. They work with the ESS staff to learn studying and test-preparation strategies. Classes include Bible, science, history, art, choir and physical education. The second segment of the program consists of two special education classes in consumer math and reading/communication. In these classes the students work on STEM (Science/Technology/Engineering/Math) projects. One STEM project that students work on is called the “Tiny House” Project, which encompasses the design and construction of a tiny house. The students measure rooms, make floor plans and construct the house to fit specific furniture and dimensions. Through this, students learn about area (square feet), perimeter and spatial orientation. The STEM Projects are new this semester in the Inclusive Ed program.

“Through work-based learning, our students have not only improved their quality of work but have also advanced their dependability, teamwork, communication and intrapersonal skills,” said Unity’s ESS Director Mrs. Cyndi Post.

One of the most comprehensive segments of the IE program is life-centered education, where students learn employability skills by working at various off- and on-campus job sites. Unity teams up with local companies and businesses

to make this happen…. Like Revive—our community’s own resale store that benefits the seven Christian schools (Allendale, Borculo, Hudsonville, Jenison, Lamont, South Olive and Unity) of the EOCS. Every Monday students help the staff and volunteers stock the store, count inventory, sort merchandise and clean. As students advance their employability skills they can start working independently at their own specific worksite. Currently one of UC’s students works at Signatures Coffee & Espresso Bar (Hudsonville) independently bussing tables, cleaning dishes and restocking inventory.

Another place where students hone their skills is at an on-campus project called “UC Brew Crew.” Once a week the students take drink orders from teachers and staff, who purchase coffee, tea, pop, water or Gatorade. The students then “deliver” the orders via their mobile beverage carts. The students are responsible for stocking their own carts and keeping track of the inventory and sales with Microsoft Excel.

The Inclusive Education Program is now in its 20th year at Unity Christian and continues to evolve and grow each year by offering students different opportunities to learn and make a positive impact in the community. Currently, there are four students enrolled in the program. IE Para pros Melissa Bronson (English and Math) and Mrs. Audrey Beute (Work-based learning and Life Skills) work with Mrs. Post to ensure that students receive the knowledge, skills and tools for attaining success in academics as well as in life through this program.

Inclusive Ed Students (l-r): Monica Scarpinito; Ellie Schreur (Student Aide); Mariah Vostad; Annah Huisman; and Michelle Eberlein.

Mariah Vostad and Michelle Eberlein

Katie Zemaitis, Annah Huisman, Ellie Schreur

Faith,Excellence&Service

The UC Inclusive Education Program

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Why Christian Education? Continued

can say. To have the teachers our children have had, and to have long lasting relationships with other families connected to Christian schools has been a blessing. So, why Christian education for us? Because we want our children to know the Lord, serve the Lord, and live out their faith.

This is the last tuition payment—oh so bittersweet! We never grumbled about having to pay this because we are so very thankful for Unity, staff, teachers, administrators. Thank you for investing in our kids; you have shaped our kids, and guided them to be equipped for the next step in life. But most importantly, you encouraged and challenged them in their faith walk! Thank you for partnering with us and helping us raise our children to be followers of Christ.

We chose Christian education because we wanted our children to learn and grow up in a community that honored God and His word. A community that taught a Christian worldview in all areas of study, to prepare them to serve God and others. I remember listening to older people that I worked with who talked about how God had honored their commitment to Christian education. They told me how their financial needs were met year after year. They also told me that others who had the same commitment to Christian education had come alongside of them and helped them along the way. We found this to be true for us as well.

We have seen God’s faithfulness throughout our twenty some years and have been blessed to partner with the communities of Hudsonville Christian and Unity Christian. We have seen our children grow and mature throughout the years and have been encouraged and blessed by these Christian communities.

When it was time to send our children to school we didn’t question too much where they would go… we knew we wanted them to have a Christian education like we both had experienced, thankfully. An education is something that no one can take away from you and having

one centered on Christ is such a huge blessing! Many people influence our children as they grow up and we wanted them being taught in an environment that held the same values as we do.

One that not only talks about Christ, His love for us, and how He redeemed us, but also teaches that we are called to live for Christ each and every day, wherever He leads us. It

has been so worth making Christian education a priority in our family. We have absolutely no regrets in sending them to Christian schools; we have been blessed by many teachers and others who are dedicated to making Christian education happen in our community. It takes God’s leading, prayer, hard work, and determination by many to make it possible. We are so grateful to God and to those who have touched our family’s lives (and continue to in our grandchildren) through the years at Christian schools. What an amazing blessing!!

What stands out to us is that while UCHS did an outstanding job in growing our children academically, the staff was even more effective and genuinely interested in walking with them through

those very critical years of spiritual development. Our observations were validated by our three UCHS graduates who overwhelming stated that they were thankful for their teachers’ consistent interest in their personal growth and spiritual development.

We are very grateful for the excellence that surrounds the students at UCHS through their education, arts, sports, and various extracurricular activities. Thank you, and please also pass along

our thanks to the many others that made our experience with UCHS so positive.

My wife Michelle and I also watched our youngest child graduate from Unity Christian on May 17. I felt it would also be appropriate to share with you why we chose to send our children to Christian schools and why we both serve in Christian education. Michelle started working at Hudsonville Christian about six months after I started working at Unity Christian, in 2000. Here are our thoughts…

Who are the people around our children who will teach and influence them while we are not with them? That is the question my wife and I needed to answer as we made the decision to enroll our children in Christian education. We both had parents and grandparents who were deeply committed to Christian education. The faith they passed along made sending our children to Christian schools an easy decision.

A Christian education is all about growing in faith. If you are not practicing your faith you are not growing in faith. The teachers and staff who have influenced our children have all had the same goal – to help each child recognize who God is, learn how to grow in a relationship with Jesus Christ, and learn how the Holy Spirit works in them to live a life of service.

Each day in a Christian school provided the opportunity for our children to meet Jesus Christ. They were taught each subject from a Christian perspective, and were shown how God was Lord of all. We were always amazed that by the end of the school year we could fully pay all our tuition. God was faithful in all circumstances and

always provided.

Watching a young family in our church recently baptize their child reminded us of the promise we made when we baptized our children. Through baptism God gives us the sign that He has claimed our children. We then must respond by doing all we can to instruct our children so that they grow to claim Jesus Christ as their Savior. God does not ask us to do this on our own – He

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Development News

Another wonderful evening of Fellowship, Food, Celebration and Entertainment! On Monday, April 24, nearly 500 UC parents, grandparents and friends were treated at The Pinnacle Center to an evening of celebration and thanksgiving… A celebration of Christian education at Unity, and thanksgiving for all the loyal, dedicated supporters that Unity has been so blessed to have!

The evening opened with a beautiful arrangement of Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow, by the UC Choral Ensemble, under the direction of Mrs. Ashton Foreman. And, members of the UC Chamber Strings provided lovely “dinner music” for our guests. Speakers included UC Foundation President Mr. Tim Vrieland who was our emcee for the night, and who presented Foundation updates and upcoming events. Principal Mr. Jerry DeGroot spoke on “Celebration & Praise”—the reason for this banquet—and gave a financial update on PACE and the capital campaign status.

Our very talented entertainers Captivating Keyboards gave an enthusiastically entertaining piano/keyboard concert with renditions of some old and new gospel songs as well as other familiar secular pieces.

Once again, our banquet venue of The Pinnacle did an awesome job with the food and service. And this year, for our specialty dessert we offered CUPCAKES from “Sprinkles” (donut shop) of Hudsonville! Thank you, Sprinkles! These delectable creations were amazing!

CelebrationBanquet2017Recap Buy-A-BrickProgramAs our Buy-A-Brick Program is an ongoing project, you may purchase engraved brick pavers for the UC Courtyard at any time. We are periodically updating the courtyard when enough orders are submitted to warrant the engraving and laying the pavers. If you’d like to be (or have your family) included in our beautiful brick-paved courtyard, please contact Nick Balcer at 616.662.4011, or

nbalcer@unitychristian.org. You may also download a Buy-A-Brick order form from the UC website at www.unitychristian.org/BuyABrick. Or, pick up a form at the Development Office (5340 Plaza Street, Hudsonville) or call 616.662.4011 to request that one be sent to you.

Order Specifications: Each brick costs $150, and can only accommodate three (3) lines of text, and is limited to 14 characters per line. (NOTE: Each letter, space, punctuation mark or number count as ONE character. NO EXCEPTIONS!)

You may order as many bricks as you want!

You will need to fill out one form per each brick.

When ordering multiple numbers of bricks, please indicate on the form the ORDER in which you want these bricks to be laid.

Piano/keyboard duo Captivating Keyboards

We wish to thank the 93 Banquet Underwriters who helped make Celebration Banquet 2017 such a success! Please join us in expressing gratitude to these businesses and individuals, without whose financial support this event would not be possible…

Thank You, Banquet Underwriters!!Accurate Plumbing, LLC

AcenTekAdvanced Interiors, Inc.

Agility HealthAir Components, Inc.

Alcor Home ImprovementAukeman Development Co.Bareman & Associates, Inc.

BCI ConstructionBlouw Appraisal Co.

Brummels Capstone Construction, Inc.Clinton Development Advisors

Colonial Clock BuildingCommunity Care Givers

Cottonwood Christian Learning CenterCreme Curls Bakery, Inc.

John Cremer – Five Star RealtyDC Mini & Recreational StorageJames C. DeVries – Nicewander,

Berens& DeVries PLLCDeYoung & Ulberg Developments LLC

East Hudsonville InvestmentsElders Electric

Financial Advisory CorporationFranklin Press, Inc.

FreedomNet SolutionsFusion Properties LLC

Gemmen’s Home & HardwareGeorgetown Waterproofing Inc.

Gerrits ApplianceKelly & Judy Glass

GMB Architecture + EngineeringJack & Barbara Grasman

Grassmid TransportGreenline Inc.

Health Care AssociatesHolland Special DeliveryHonderd Concrete, Inc.

Hudsonville Auto SalesHudsonville Trailer Co.

Hudsonville Wheel Alignment Inc.Dr. and Mrs. Robert C. Huizenga

Shawn & Cheri HulstHulst Jepsen Physical Therapy

INONTIME, Inc.JDH Engineering, Inc.

Ken Jipping – State Farm AgentJ. Milito & Associates, Inc.

Kaptein, Dykstra & Company, PCKris Keegstra – RE/MAX Premier

Kerkstra PrecastKessel & Bouwens Orthodontics

John F. & Delia KoetjeKoetje Builders Inc.

Koetje Heating & Cooling Inc.Kroll Furnace Inc.

Kuperus Trucking, Inc.

Kuyers Dairy FarmLakewood Construction

Macatawa BankMBK Corporate Promotions, LLC

M & K Truck CentersManufacturers Supply Company

Meade Zolman Family Dentistry PCMeyers Cleaning Service, Inc.Micandy Garden Greenhouses

Michigan Veal, Inc.New York Life Insurance Company

North Coast Components, Inc.Glenn and Leanne Overweg

Pat Dornbos Dressmaking & AlterationsPotluck Pick-Up, Inc.Carl & Berdie Prins

Ralph Meyers Trucking Inc.Rohr Gasoline Equipment Inc.Rosewood Auto Service, Inc.

Royal Sheet Metal, Inc.Schuts Body Shop, Inc.

Shepard & Schut Drywall, Inc.Speed Wrench Inc.

Starlight Ministries, Inc.THE DRAWING BOARD

The Foundation Co. Inc.The Pinnacle Center

VanderLugt, Mulder, DeVries & EldersRoss & Suzann VanKlompenberg

Van Manen Petroleum GroupVirtual Systems

Weather Shield Roofing SystemsWest Michigan Cabinet Supply, Inc.

West Michigan Community BankWest Michigan Document Shredding

West Michigan Door Co.Anonymous – (1)

11

BuildingUnityMay2017UpdateSince the completion of the building of our new high school in August of 2015 we have continued the annual Building Unity Campaign to fully fund this project. The entire community has joined resources and supported this project through their prayers and financial gifts. We are blessed and thankful.

The current financial situation is such that we are still short the necessary funding to completely support our financial obligations for this project. This project stayed on budget and was completed well below market value due to timing and generous gifts-in-kind that our community provided. For this we are thankful.

We are currently working with many in our community to complete the financial needs for this project, with very positive results. Now, we also call on you, the Unity community, to again prayerfully consider how you can help complete the Building Unity campaign. Below is our current financial situation:

Each month Unity is paying approximately $14,000 to cover the loan interest of debt.

In order to completely support the loan balance debt and fund the endowment goal of $1 million Unity is requesting funds totaling $2,691,971.00.

Unity Christian is grateful and appreciates the support our community has provided. We are asking for all in the Unity community to prayerfully consider how you can support the remaining balance of the Building Unity Campaign.

Thank you, Jerry DeGroot, Principal/CEO

Jack Lutke, Director of Development Troy Billin, Board President

SCRAPMETALDRIVE2017

The following is a true story of giving that highlights what our Scrap Metal Drive is all about…

GivingtoChristianEducationThe Buick slowly drove into the Scrap Metal Drive location off Balsam on Friday afternoon, April 28… coming in against the flow of vehicles all lined up to drop off truckloads and trailer-loads of scrap. The Buick came to a stop. Slowly, the passenger—an elderly gentleman—struggled out of the car aided by a cane. The driver (obviously, his elderly wife) also exited the car, and the couple walked up to the drive coordinator, Mr. Alden Jelsema. “Can I help you?” Alden asked. “Yes, who’s in charge here?” asked the man. “That would be me,” answered Alden. “What is this Scrap Drive for?” asked the gentleman. “For Christian education at Unity and Hudsonville Christian Schools,” answered Alden. “That’s what we thought,” said the gentleman, and he turned back to the rear seat of their car. Reaching in, he brought out a handful of items. “Here you go,” said the man. “We support Christian education and we want to help. This is all we’ve got for you, but we wanted to give something…”

Suddenly, the stress and anxiety of managing the mountains of scrap that were pouring in from larger vehicles, and the steady stream of waiting customers melted away. Alden could barely hold back the tears that were forming in his eyes as he took the items from the couple, saying, “Thank you so much… We really appreciate your support!”

As the couple slowly returned to their car, Alden watched them leave. This is what supporting Christian education is truly about, thought Alden. When people give of what they have—no matter how much or how little, but from the heart… Bless you, Mr. and Mrs. Anonymous!

It was a busy Friday and Saturday (April 28 & 29) at the 2017 Scrap Metal Drive, as hundreds of pounds of scrap metal (via implements, appliances, and miscellaneous metal parts) were collected from a steady stream of vehicles pouring into the site at 5710 Balsam Avenue in Hudsonville! Thanks to all the volunteers and coordinator Mr. Alden Jelsema whose dedication and service makes this event such a success… We have collected $13,300 in revenue to benefit the Education Foundations of Hudsonville Christian and Unity Christian Schools. Thank you to all who donated your scrap metal!!

Total Outstanding Pledges to be Collected (from 2014 to 2020)

$ 3,368,029

Total Loan Balance to date $ 5,060,000

Loan interest to date $ 398,857

12

As a “veteran” teacher, Mr. Bob Bakker has been rated “Outstanding” after completing Unity’s rigorous 10th year review. So, I was eager to learn more about Bob on that Friday morning, before the start of Spring Break 2017. As usual I took my seat in the Unity commons, on the west side along the windows in a booth overlooking the “Courtyard of Patrons.” (I always imagine these patrons are listening in on my conversations.) Then I heard a voice coming from the hallway. “Stephanie, wait up a minute… I loved your question yesterday. It really helped our discussion. It got lots of kids talking. We learned a lot. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome, Mr. Bakker,” a girl’s voice responded.

“Hi Jack,” said Bob as he turned the corner, extended a hand and took a seat. As he noted my obvious curiosity about his encounter in the hall, Bob explained: “I seek out one-on-one opportunities to thank my students and show appreciation for them. I do that in the classroom, the hallways, the commons—anytime and anywhere I can to make a one-on-one contact.”

This explanation made clear what students told me were their experiences with Mr. Bakker…

He’s cool. He interacts with us all the time and anywhere—the store, church, gym. He makes English fun. His music tastes are a little weird. He always seeks our opinions first and then leads

discussions so we see both sides.

- A Freshman female student in Mr. Bakker’s English I class.

He gets us. He has us read. Then through lively class discussions he gets us to see all perspectives and gets us to shape our own perspectives and to put our Christian perspectives in writing. We are always writing in English class. Oh, his music tastes – he likes oldies.

- A Junior male student in Mr. Bakker’s English III class.

Once Bob settled comfortably into his side of the booth, my interview began:

JP: Consider this courtyard where Unity Patrons have their names inscribed on the bricks… Imagine these Patrons listening and learning how, through an English teacher at Unity, students are being helped to increase in faith… (I then read Bob the statements from the two students who had described him.

Bob grinned and chuckled.)

Jack, I look for ways to communicate with my students in class, around campus and in the community about things they are interested in. I learn a lot. Communication is so important for building trust with each of them. When I have their trust, they allow me to have them learn English well; that is, to read well, to write well and to organize and articulate their thoughts well. And while learning English well, which by the way is hard work, I am conscious about choosing what students read to have them consider a bigger and greater God. Learning English well and considering a bigger and greater God are inseparable! They read. We discuss their readings in class. We seek to understand the authors’ perspectives and each other’s perspectives. We compare these with Christian, Biblical perspectives. We work and pray and talk and write our own personal perspectives. I’m always excited to read what they’ve written. I have them write a lot. And, I—their teacher—make no assumptions as to where each student is in their faith journey. I pray, Lord lead me to help each student come to say, ‘Mr. Bakker helped me to consider others’ perspectives making me more compassionate and humble. I feel I am getting closer to the heart of God. I am loving God and others more.’ And, yes, their writings show an increasing faith during their years at Unity and in

In The Spotlight

InTheSpotlight:Mr. Bob Bakker, UC English TeacherThis is the fourth of five “In the Spotlight” articles by Mr. Jack Postma, Unity Principal Emeritus 2012. In the Spotlight provides a view of Unity teachers in their roles in the mission of Developing Followers of Jesus to be Leaders. This “spotlight” series focuses on the five UC teachers who, having recently celebrated their 10th year in serving Unity, and underwent an intense, 10-year review by administrators, their peers and the UC Board. Each of these individuals was found to be an “outstanding” Unity Christian teacher.

“Studying English is an avenue to considering a bigger and greater God. I’m excited. I’m honored to lead Unity students along this avenue. So help me, God.”

– UC English teacher Robert “Bob” Bakker

Mr. Bob Bakker, Riley DeWitt, Nathan Broek, Nathan Postma

Unity is intentional about its teachers walking with

each student on their faith journey; it is a journey—

always moving, never static. I am here to walk their

journeys with them. This is Christian education.

13

our English classes. I thank the Lord. English is such a unique avenue—it’s dirt and asphalt and cement and city and country and “M-6” bumpy… and muddy and dusty – for contemplating the world and for seeing our great God in it all!

JP: You work hard to have a trusting relationship with each student. Your students trust you to lead them to places and through times where they would fear to go with others. Can you share how you go about building such trust?”

I love people. I love being with people. And by being intentional, I hope and pray I don’t leave anyone out. I really want my students to know I care about them. I greet them nearly every day at the door. I want them to see and feel I am excited to see them and have something very special prepared for them that day. I love joking with them and I love having them joke with me. And, yes, I am known to make up nicknames, for example, Colin “broken” Glashower, Hayden “Extra” Large and so on. I work to learn their names within the first day of class. Greeting each student by name is important. Dale Carnegie years ago wrote ‘The sweetest words for anyone to hear is their name.’ And I seek to practice that.

Bob’s efforts are not only appreciated by his students, but are also noticed and deeply appreciated and admired by colleagues and other Unity staff...

Bob has a deep desire to get kids to

read and write. He wants to be the best teacher possible. Kids are comfortable with Bob. They rate him very high caring for them. He always wants to know how to do better; how to be a better teacher. He is exemplary when it comes to pitching in to help around school wherever he can. No job is too much or too extra or too dirty or too demeaning for Bob! He is knowledgeable and skilled choosing literature to help the students grow in their faith.

– Bill Postma, Unity’s Director of Instruction

Bob is always smiling, always has a greeting for everyone.

– Jerry Victory, Unity’s Custodian

Bob is genuine, open, caring, godly and an exemplary role model for our students.

– Jerry DeGroot, Unity’s Principal

Bob is very relational. He is second-to-none as to having passion for kids and learning. He is always upbeat. A godly man. A great role model.

– Scott Soodsma, Unity’s Dean of Students.

JP: I’ve learned about you, Bob Bakker/Unity teacher, from students and staff. Now, I’d like you to describe yourself as a person. Who are you?

I, Bob Bakker, am a child of God, a husband, a father, a son. I’m called to Unity and have been lead to teaching.

My being called to Unity was very clear. My wife Kristin and I moved into the Jenison/Hudsonville area and really became part of this great community. It is wonderful to meet my students and their parents in the store and church.

JP: Why are you here?

After teaching at Lansing Christian for 3 years, it was very clear to Kristin and me the call was to join the Unity staff in developing followers of Jesus. And true to my first impressions, I have found Unity to be very direct about what I must be teaching and what I must have the students learn. Unity is intentional about faith-immersion and learning. Or, in other words, Unity is intentional about its teachers walking with each student on their faith journey; it is a

journey—always moving, never static. I am here to walk their journeys with them. This is Christian education.

“This is Christian education” – a profound description for choosing who are to influence one’s children. A profound description to think on for a time, even though there was so much more I could have Bob talk about.

There is so much more I am sure you, the Tidings reader, would like to know about Bob. When you see him, do start a conversation. He’d love to talk with you, or in the words of an English teacher: He’d love to communicate with you. (By the way, Bob was chosen by the Class of 2017 to be their guest speaker at graduation on May 17.)

Thank you, Bob… You are articulate, and you have inspired the passionate support of Unity by those named in the Courtyard of Patrons, and, hopefully, our readers of the Tidings as well.

May God bless you, Bob. Unity is blessed to have you and your family as members of its community. We hear you say, “We belong. Thank the Lord.” And we thank Him with you.

Jack Postma Principal Emeritus 2012

♦ ♦ ♦

Note: Not only does Mr. Bob Bakker teach English classes at Unity, he has also coached Freshman Girls Basketball, Junior Varsity Girls Basketball, and currently coaches Freshman Boys Baseball. Bob graduated from Holland Christian High in 1999, went on to Calvin College and graduated in 2003 with a BA in Education, and earned his MA in Education in 2012. Bob is married to Kristin, who is an educator in the Grand Rapids schools. They have three children: Bailey (7), Everett (5) and Andrew (3).

Mr. Bob Bakker

14

Alumni News

UPDATES:Tony and Brittany (Roode ’07) Troeger (formerly in Honduras) are now serving in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, at a small private/Christian school. Cody (’09) and Jessica (Horjus ’09) Zuiderveen and their son Hudson (18 mos.) are providing servant-leadership to CRWM-Haiti, Sous Espwa, and Haitian partner ministries whose mission is to encourage healthy and grow-ing churches, Christian schools and other Christian organizations in Haiti. The Zuiderveens moved to Haiti in January 2017.

Please note: The following Alumni are no longer serving in missions: David and Jillian (Honderd ’09) Draayer (formerly in Zambia, Africa). We give thanks for the Draayers and their service, and ask prayers for Tony and Brittany and Cody and Jessica, as well as for all the members of our extended Unity Community who are

working to advance our Lord’s kingdom through mission work. Please keep the following UC Alumni and their families in your prayers:

Jeff and Melissa (DeJonge ’93) Bos – Bangladesh, South Asia; Kristen Bosch (’09) – Dominican Republic; Patti (Steenwyk ‘88) Brander – Mission India/Grandville MI; Elizabeth Curtis (’15) – Zambia, Africa; Ray (‘93) and Angie De Lange – Seattle, Washington; Abby Deters (‘12) – Glen Arbor, Michigan (Grand Traverse Young Life); Caleb Ellens (’11) – South Bend, Indiana (Michiana Young Life); Ryan Elders (’05) – Eastern Ottawa County, Michigan (Young Life Ministry); Kyle and Heather Glashower – Coral Springs, Florida (One Hope); Merissa Harkema (’09) – India (Sarah’s Covenant Homes); John (’74) and Ruth (VanZalen ’74) Hoekwater – Chicago, Illinois; Angela (Angie) Johnson (’11) – Managua, Nicaragua; Dana Krol (’10) – Zambia, Africa; Thomas (’99) and Tera Krol

– Karen, Kenya; Edgar and Jamie (Ponstein ‘05) Martinez – Minneapolis, Minnesota (YWAM); Heather Miedema (’09) – Zambia, Africa; Steve (’95) and April Palmbos – Malawi, Africa; Matthew (’07) and Rachel Schmitt – Bloomington, Minnesota; Brenda Vander Schuur (’78) – Guinea; Tony and Brittany (Roode ’07) Troeger – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil SA; John (’77) and Kazumi Van Farowe – Japan; Caleb Van Wienen (’13) – Lakeside, Montana (YWAM); and Nathan (‘87) and Brenda Yonker – Haiti.

If you know of other UC Alumni serv-ing in missions, please send their names and information about their ministries to development@unity-christian.org, or call 616.662.4011.

AlumniinMissions

MarriagesSamantha Brower (’14) married Colson Modderman on December 2, 2016.

Quinton Glashower (’05) married Jenni Anderson on May 6, 2017.

Rebecca Van Regenmorter (’05) married Andy Pederson on March 25, 2017.

BirthsFord James Alsgaard was born on November 7, 2016 to parents Aaron and Danae (Ellens ’06) Alsgaard, and welcomed by big sister London (2½).

Rosie Madelyn Brouwer was born on May 3, 2017 to parents Keith (’04) and Erica (Mulder ’07) Brouwer, and joins a very pink household with three big sisters Rylen (6), Penny (4) and Jolene (1½).

Wyatt Neil DeKievit was born to parents Peter (‘04) and Amy DeKievit on March 29, 2017.

Hope Renee Kamer was born on January 2, 2017 to parents Ryan and Alaina (Klooster ’10) Kamer, and welcomed by big sister Grace (4).

Paige Nicole Kaptein was born to parents Jordan (’13) and Lauren (Buys ’13) Kaptein on April 7, 2017.

Cora Joy Oosting was born to parents Bryan (’02) and Kelli Oosting on February 20, 2017, and welcomed by big sister Piper (3).

Ler Moch Tap was born to parents James (“Mooch” ’09) and Treza Moch Tap on March 2, 2017. (James is Sudanese and Ler was named by his Sudanese grandfather.) [PHOTO]

Kylynn Elise Troeger was born to parents Tony and Brittany (Roode ‘07) Troeger (in Rio de Janeiro!) on April 25, 2017. (the Troegers are currently Alumni in Missions.)

Markus Joel Van Dyke was born on April 23, 2017 to parents Cory (’05) and Kara Van Dyke, and welcomed by big brother Kenton (2½).

Sydney Joy Van Maanen was born to parents Kalen and Amber (Soodsma ’07) Van Maanen on April 17, 2017, and welcomed by big brother Parker (22 mos.)

James Scott Wesseldyke was born to Alex (’08) and Samantha Wesseldyke on September 22, 2016.

Pearl Ann Wierenga was born to parents Jeff (’07) and Martha Wierenga on February 1, 2017.

Please submit any Alumni birth or marriage announcements to: development@unitychristian.org, or call 616.662.4011.

(PLEASE NOTE: To celebrate our newest little ones, we have a FREE “UC Blue Crew” Onesie that parents/grandparents may pick up from the Development Office at 5340 Plaza St., Hudsonville MI. Please call or email the Development Office and we’ll put

one aside for you. Thank you!

UC “Blue Crew” Babies James (top), Ler and Brianna (with cousin

Zach DeVries) model their Blue Crew Onesies!

15

AlumniintheMilitaryUPDATES: Please remember to keep all of our young people listed below in your prayers—and their families as well:

Class of 1987: Chad Geers; Jeff RozemaClass of 1994: Eric Alan BrewClass of 1996: Jeremy Molendyk Class of 1998: Allen Broene; Joon Kee Lee (Patrick Crans)Class of 1999: Derk Nyenhuis; Ron Thenn Class of 2000: Steve Bloem; Rick Martinus;

Clayton PoortengaClass of 2001: Seth Allen; Darin Elgersma; Drew VerHageClass of 2002: Bryan FlietstraClass of 2003: Adam Bosma; Jeff Dekkinga; Katy Driesenga;

Justin Oosterbaan (Air Guard) Brian Tucker; Eric VanBeek

Class of 2004: Kody Fennema; Justin Hatchner Class of 2005: Brett Jackson; Chris Kitler; Andrew Niewiek;

Stephan ThennClass of 2006: Jay Baum; Joshua Lankheet; David Van

AbbemaClass of 2007: Aubrey Bosma (Navy Reserves);

Brandon Dragstra; Drew Grooters; Quynn Schaaphok; Rachel Scott; Bobby Sorensen; Lauren Zandstra

Class of 2008: Michael Dekker; Kyle Emelander; Brandon Zomerlei

Class of 2009: Corbin Durek; Kent Schaaphok; Tyler Stroven; Joshua VanBelzen; Ryan VanVels

Class of 2010: Tyler WiersmaClass of 2011: Austin Dornbush; Jon Mohr; Chris PoolmanClass of 2012: Ethan RitsemaClass of 2013: Wyatt Johnson; Charlie Vrieland Class of 2014: Jacob Herzog; Gavin Miedema;

Joshua TerKeurst; Nathan VandenBoschClass of 2015: Trevor Vedders Class of 2016: Andrew Jongekrijg

The names of the Alumni listed above have been submitted by their families for recognition of their service in the military. If you know of other Unity alumni currently serving in either of these capacities, we would like to recognize and honor them in the Tidings. Please send their information to development@unitychristian.org, or call the Development Office at 616.662.4011. Also, if you have updated information on any of the Alumni listed, please call or email the Development Office as soon as possible.

The Class of 1957 will hold their 60th

Reunion on Saturday, June 22, 2017 at Unity Christian High School, from 2:00-4:30 p.m. This event will include a tour of the UC building. For any questions please contact Wilma Van Solkema at 616.669.7928 or by e-mail at vansoljw@gmail.com.

The Class of 1960 has planned another event for this Fall: September 21, 2017; at 5:00 p.m. ~ A class Get-together and Dinner will be held at the Trestle Stop in Hamilton, Michigan. Cost will be around $21 per person, includes tip and tax. To RSVP for this event, please contact Marilyn DeMann at 616.460.4828, or marilyndemann@gmail.com.

Class of 1962 – SAVE THE DATE & NEW INFO! The Class of 1962 will celebrate their 55th Reunion at an Informal Get-together on October 7, 2017 at the Trestle Stop in Hamilton MI.

NEW INFO: Social Hour will be from 5 to 6 p.m., with dinner starting at 6 p.m. A “Save the Date” postcard notice was sent out (in November) requesting class members’ email information, as all further communications about this reunion will be sent via email. If you do not have email, please send a short note with your name and address to Ruth Meyers Luurtsema, 11813 Port Sheldon, Holland MI 49424 and information will be mailed to you. Please contact Jan Feenstra Everman at hjeverman@gmail.com if you have any questions, or did not receive the Save the Date Postcard.

Class of 1997 – SAVE THE DATE! The Class of 1997 will hold their 20th Reunion on November 11, 2017 in the North Gym & Lobby of the Oak St. Campus, from 4:00-8:00 p.m. Contact: Doug VanderPloeg (dvanderploeg@unitychristian.org).

Class of 2007 – SAVE THE DATE! The Class of 2007 will celebrate their 10th Reunion on Saturday September 30, 2017 from 5:00-10:00 p.m. at 7016 Tyler Street, Hudsonville, MI 49426. If you have any questions, please contact Betsy (Boomsma) Haarsma at betsy.boomsma17@gmail.com .

Is your class planning a reunion event in 2017? Please contact the Development Office at development@unitychristian.org, or call 6l6.662.4011, to publish this information in the next issue of the Tidings. (Class Officers/Reunion Planners: Class lists are available from the Development Office by request.)

Class Reunions in 2017

Non-ProfitUS Postage

PAIDPermit No. 17

Grand Rapids, MI UNITY CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL

5900 48TH Ave. HUDSONvILLe, MI 49426

Revive NewsJQ99 is coming to revive! On Friday, June 16 Christian radio’s JQ99 will be broadcasting live from revive’s parking lot from 11 am to 2 pm! It’s all part of the “Hello Summer!” Event happening that day! We’re ushering in summer with all kinds of fun for the whole family – and all kinds of deals

too!

• Revive will have giveaways, big sales, and coupons for all kinds of family-friendly items such as toys, clothing, sporting goods, and more!

• Revive’s neighboring businesses will also be participating with giveaways, food samples, coupons, and prizes! Look for Biggby Coffee, Jet’s Pizza, Ivy’s Day Spa and Nails, Elizabeth Brooke Salon, What’s the Scoop, West Michigan Chiropractic Clinic, and AAA Insurance!

• Plus games, activities, and treats for the kids!

JQ will also be giving away tickets to this year’s Unity Christian Music Festival happening this August!

Don’t miss all the fun, food, and free stuff! Be sure to stop by and say “Hello, Summer” with us at revive!

Revive Needs Cashiers! This volunteer position is such a joy if you like working with people, greeting customers, and helping them with their purchases. The registers are very easy to use and no experience is required. We will train you until you are comfortable, and often a second cashier will work alongside you to help. Revive needs cashiers for 2-5 hour shifts on a weekly and a monthly basis as well as on-call cashier subs. We will work with any time commitment you can give! Revive welcomes high-school-age volunteers and older for this position. Please call the revive managers at 616-662-3375 or email at revive@unitychristian.org for more information or to discuss your interest. It’s a great way to serve our schools, fill your time, or add to your résumé! Saturday help with receiving donations would also be a huge blessing… if you’re interested!

www.facebook.com/ReviveResaleStore

Phone: 616.662.3375

email: revive@unitychristian.org;Website: www.ReviveResale.org;

3675 Baldwin Street, Hudsonville, MI 49426

Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10am – 5pm;

Tuesday, Thursday 10am – 7pm; Saturday 10am – 3pm

Be sure to “like” us on Facebook

and help us reach 2,000 “likes”!

provides others to walk alongside our children as they grow in their faith.

So, who are some of the people who surrounded our children during their most formative years? Christian school teachers who devoted their lives to help our children claim Christ as their own!

If you are a young family who is

considering Christian education for your children, I encourage you to talk to a family who has made this commitment. It might just solidify why a Christian school education is so valuable and such a blessing.

If our responsibility as a parent is to do whatever we can to ensure our children claim Christ as their own, then why would we not choose Christian education for our children? It is my prayer that

God will continue to bless Christian education at Unity and all of our EOCS Christian Schools for generations to come. A Christian education is available to all, and I look forward to talking to you about how Unity Christian can serve you and your children.

Jerry DeGroot, Principal

Why Christian Education? (continued from page 9)