Extending God’s Blessing

by Jim Schoon

edited by Bob Terwilliger, spring 2023

Following graduation from West High School in Phoenix, Arizona, in 1962, I attended Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, for 2.5 years before transferring to our church-affiliated Hope College in Holland, Michigan, graduating in 1967. Further education included an MDiv from Western Seminary in 1971 and a DMin from Fuller Theological Seminary in 1983. I retired from the pastorate in May 2009, having served RCA churches in Chino and Escondido, California (as associate pastor) for 8 years, and having planted and served as pastor of New Hope Community Church in Fremont, California, for 30 years.

In June 1967, I married Catherine Hoeksema, who was a graduate of Arizona State University. Cathy’s education includes a master’s degree and a Reading Specialist Degree. Cathy retired in June 2018, having taught for 40-plus years, equally divided between kindergarten and third grade.

Cathy’s retirement brought on a terrific opportunity of donating her collection of 4,100 children’s books to Hope Alive in Uganda. It is rewarding to know that the Lord will use these books to equip many children to read.

I have discovered retirement to be a gratifying experience as I currently enjoy racquetball, Rotary, walking our black lab, and serving on a committee at the local hospital. This past year was a wonderful year for traveling to many national parks in the West. God’s creation is magnificent.

I enjoy being a part-time staff member at a local Presbyterian church with ministry opportunities in calling, working with the Board of Deacons, and teaching Bible classes.

We are grateful to the Lord for his presence and faithfulness and extend God’s blessings to you and yours.

Jim received his BA from Hope College, an MDiv from Western Theological Seminary, and a DMin from Fuller Theological Seminary. He served RCA churches in Chino and Escondido, California, before planting and serving at New Hope Community Church in Fremont, California. Jim and Cathy continue to live in Fremont. jschoon@pacbell.net