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The Canadian Reformed MagazineVolume 51, No. 15, July 19, 2002

Theology –and no fun?

The Canadian Reformed MagazineVolume 51, No. 15, July 19, 2002

A book opened out of curiosity may unexpectedly turnout to be much more interesting than expected. I had on myshelves a book dealing with the life of Professor G.E. Boer,who lived from 1832 to 1904.1 Not many of us will haveheard of this professor. I did not know anything about his life,either. But as I read through his autobiography, I found it in-teresting in many ways. It is, of course, a book about thechurch as it was in the nineteenth century. There is a greatdifference between that century and our lives at the begin-ning of the twenty-first century. At the same time, peopleremain the same and we can learn from books like this thatthere is a basic continuity between the church more than acentury ago and the church in our own time. I was sur-prised how great that continuity is on the issue of theologicaleducation, as can be seen from the past. But first we need toknow more about Boer, for he had an interesting life.

Boer was a farmer’s son who after the retirement of hisparents worked on the farm of a widow. When he wasabout twenty-five years old, he made a halfhearted attemptto prepare himself for the ministry. This was only a fewyears after the theological Seminary of the SecessionChurches had been established in 1854. But from severalsides he was discouraged from taking up the study of theol-ogy, because people thought him too old. As he himself didnot think he was called to the ministry, he was satisfiedwith the negative advice. Later, however, a minister con-vinced him that he could not prove that he was not calleduntil he had attempted it. This minister urged him to beginthe study of Dutch, Latin and Greek in the spare hours notspent on the farm.

The Lord provided for him in a remarkable way. By thetime he was ready to begin his studies at the Seminary inKampen, his employer, a widow, sold the farm. She was will-ing to lend him the money needed for studying at the semi-nary. Around the same time, he inherited some money.These circumstances allowed him to go to Kampen to studyfor the ministry. He was twenty-nine years old by that time!

In the ministryAfter having graduated, his life consists of three peri-

ods. First, he served as a minister in the Netherlands from1865 to 1872. In that year, he was called to serve a churchin Grand Rapids. This was a church consisting of Dutchimmigrants who had belonged to the Secession churchesin the Netherlands. He ministered this church till the timethe Synod of Chicago 1876 appointed him as teacher for thetheological students of this Dutch Reformed Church. A pic-ture in the book shows him as the teacher surrounded byseven students. He was the only teacher (with the exceptionof Geerhardus Vos, who briefly taught Greek and Latin)until 1884 when Rev. G. K. Hemkes (who was the editor ofthe book on Boer) was appointed as the second teacher.Boer retired in 1902, and died two years later, at the age ofseventy-one.

Theology and languagesBoer’s recounting of his own life is remarkable for the

emphasis he put on the biblical languages. It actually be-gins before he went to Kampen and while he was stillworking on the farm. A neighbouring minister urged him,together with some other young men from the area, tocome to him for lessons in Dutch, Latin and Greek. He hadto ask permission from the lady he worked for. Having re-ceived permission, he even took his books to the threshingfloor to study during lost moments.

In 1861 he went to Kampen, but first he had to concen-trate on the languages. In addition to Dutch, Latin andGreek, which he had studied before, he also learned He-brew. This was not part of the theological curriculum of theseminary; these were preparatory studies. This period lastedfor two years, and only after having completed this was headmitted to the theological studies.

This is remarkable for two reasons. As already stated, hebegan to study theology in Kampen in 1861. This was seven

354 CLARION, JULY 19, 2002

EDITORIAL

By N.H. Gootjes

Professor Boer and Theological Education

The Reformed churches realized theimportance of the knowledge of the biblical

languages for their ministers.

The Lord provided for him in aremarkable way.

years after the opening of the seminary because it had beenestablished in 1854 to provide capable ministers to thechurches coming out of the Secession. These churcheswanted ministers who would know the Scriptures and whocould read and understand them in the original languages.

This is all the more remarkable when we consider thatBoer was a mature student. He was twenty-nine years oldwhen he entered the Theological Seminary in Kampen. Evenin his case, the language requirement was maintained. Hehad studied the languages before he came to Kampen, buthe received further instruction in them in the introductoryyears of study at the seminary. The Reformed churches real-ized the importance of the knowledge of the biblical lan-guages for their ministers.

The people from the Secession continued in this tradi-tion when they came to this continent. In addition toDutch(!), the students were instructed in Latin, Greek andHebrew.2 As one man had to teach all these different sub-jects, it cannot have been a very intensive and in depthstudy of the biblical languages. But the intention was there

CLARION, JULY 19, 2002 355

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Useful Link: www.canrc.org

IN THIS ISSUEEditorial – Professor Boer and Theological Education

— N.H. Gootjes ..........................................................354Treasures, New and Old – The Crescendo of

Salvation — M.R. Jagt ................................................357Report of the delegates of the Committee for the Promotion

of Ecclesiastical Unity to Synod 2002 of the FreeReformed Churches of North America— W.B. Slomp ............................................................358

Book Notes — W.L. Bredenhof ....................................360Address of Fraternal Delegate to the Synod of the Free

Reformed Churches of North America, June 6, 2002— R. Aasman ..............................................................360

Press Review – A Letter in Discussion — J. DeJong........362Ray of Sunshine — C. Gelms and E. Nordeman ............366Education Matters..........................................................367Press Releases – Ontario West, Central Ontario ............369Our Little Magazine — Aunt Betty ................................371

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What’s inside?In recent months, many of us have read or heard

about a letter of Prof. J. Douma to the General Synodof Zuidhorn 2002, the Netherlands. In this letter, Prof.Douma expresses regret for his role in the conflict thatled to a division in our sister churches during the six-ties. While some have appreciated Prof. Douma’s ex-planation and regrets, others have raised questionsabout his letter. Dr. J. DeJong gives his opinion on this,referring at length to comments by Prof. C. Trimp. Iam sure that you will find this interesting.

The Free Reformed Churches trace their rootsback to 1834. Many Canadian Reformed Churchmembers do as well. It is, therefore, only natural thatthe FRC and the CanRC are in a relationship whichthe FRC describes as “limited contact.” A report byRev. W. B. Slomp on a recent FRC Synod, as well as aspeech delivered by yours truly at that Synod, will ac-quaint the readers with certain aspects of FRC life andthe relationship which we have with them.

The editorial by Dr. N.H. Gootjes concludes thatlife in the theological school world is not without alittle bit of humour. Apparently it is possible to head forthe ministry and still have some fun. I assume that min-isters can do the same.

We have some of our regular columns: Treasures,New and Old, Ray of Sunshine and Education Matters.In addition, Rev. W. Bredenhof provides a review of anew book for our consideration. Finally, two press re-leases of classes in Ontario keep us apprised of whatis going on in the daily lives of our churches. No-tably, the brothers W. Geurts and J. VanSpronsenhave been declared eligible for call, and brother E.Dethan was given permission to speak an edifyingword. We congratulate these brothers, and we thankthe Lord our God for enriching his church with faith-ful men who can serve in his vineyard.

RA

right from the beginning that ministers who were to teachthe doctrines of Scripture should be able to read the Scrip-tures in the original languages.

We cannot imagine a smaller theological school thanthe one founded by the people from the Secession in Amer-ica in the nineteenth century. The vision was larger than theopportunity. But we feel united with them in maintainingthe important place that biblical languages have in the studyof theology.

Theology and funThe biographical account of the life of Prof. Boer includes

several pictures, taken at different periods of his life. In thebeginning of the book, two early photographs are insertedin which he really looks like a farmhand uncomfortable in hisSunday suit. Later in the book, a picture of the mature Boeris included, in which he looks very distinguished. It is hard tobelieve that they portray the same person. But one fact con-nects these pictures: on both he looks very serious.

When we think of the people living during the secondhalf of the nineteenth century, and the long hours they hadto work, the hardships they had to face, both in the Nether-lands and on this continent, we may think that these werepeople who did not have any fun in life. But that impres-sion would be wrong, for theological students can have funand can make fun just as well as everyone else. Also at theseminary of the Secession churches in America funnythings happened.

Boer himself tells several stories. One concerns a beardedstudent who had made a trip to the Netherlands, and hadreturned clean shaven. While he was in the office of a pro-fessor, one of the students told another that the Baron of Con-stein was visiting the seminary, and offered to introduce him

to the Baron. The student, who wanted to make a good im-pression, made a deep bow before the “Baron,” and askedhim about his visit to this continent. He did not recognizehim as one of his classmates! When the deceived student wastold of the trick played on him, he was rather angry at first.Another story concerns a student who had to present a ser-mon proposal. This student was going to deliver a sermonproposal on a passage from Jonah, and wanted to read thetext from the Bible before he started on delivering his sermon.In his nervousness he could not find the book of Jonah inthe pulpit bible. He announced: This Bible does not havethe book of Jonah!

Just like Christians in general, theologians are sometimesregarded as people who cannot have any fun. This is justnot true. If even during the more formal lifestyle of the nine-teenth century jokes were a normal part of student life, thisis even more the case in our more relaxed times. In the pastyear, we had two special occasions at the Theological Col-lege, where the humorous side of studying theology wasbrought forward, as the reports in Clarion also show. Even a“treasured” text book was so severely criticized that it hadto be ripped in pieces! Studying theology is hard work, butalso much fun. And, speaking for myself, teaching theologyas well, is hard work and at the same time much fun.

The churches continue to need ministers. Our situation isquite different from that of Boer, but we want to continue inthe same direction the churches already were going in histime. The Lord of the church grant that many may come to beprepared for preaching the joyful gospel of salvation.

1G.K. Hemkes (ed.), Een man des volks: Het leven van Prof.Geert Egbert Boer (Grand Rapids: Hulst, 1904). The larger partof this book consist of an autobiographical account by Boer.2H. Beets, De Christelijk Gereformeerde Kerk in Noord America(Grand Rapids: Grand Rapids Printing Company, 1918) 152.


He announced: This Bible does not havethe book of Jonah!

Dr. N.H. Gootjes is professor of Dogmatology at the The-ological College of the Canadian Reformed Churches inHamilton, Ontario.

Theology students having fun in the 70s.

When I say “Samson” you proba-bly think of a strong man with a weak-ness for women. Pictures of long hairor collapsing temples come to mind.But look at the very beginning of hislife, for a moment. There is somethingwonderful even about his conceptionand birth.

The LORD comes to a couple. Withall the other judges, God came to agrown man and called him to be hissaviour. But here God plans a birth.Even from the time of his conceptionSamson is set apart for the service ofGod. His mother must also live by thelaw of the Nazirite.

The LORD comes to a couple whoare barren. In the Old Testament bar-renness was specifically a punish-ment from God (Deut 28:18). It showsyou what sin does to us – sin bringsdeath, sterility. You can also see in thisbarrenness our helplessness. Sinbrings us to a dead end that we cannotovercome.

The LORD comes to a couple whoare barren just as the Philistine op-pression begins. Take a look at thetiming of this angelic declaration.Samson was a judge in Israel fortwenty years (Judges 15:20). He prob-ably began to judge Israel when hewas close to twenty years of age, al-though he could have been older. ThePhilistines, we’re told, were a threatto Israel for forty years (Judges 16:1).That means, at the very least, that it’sabout the time the Philistine oppres-sion begins that God also makes hisannouncement of the birth of Sam-son, his deliverer.

The LORD comes to a couple whoare barren just as the cruel Philistinedomination starts and the Israeliteshave not even cried out to Him! Thereis a clear pattern in the book ofJudges: the Israelites sin, God deliv-ers them into the hand of their ene-mies, they cry out and God sends sal-vation. But here there is no cry forhelp, no repentance. But yet Godraises up Samson to begin the deliv-erance from the Philistines!

Do you see how wonderful thatis? It’s wonderful for you personally,because you too have received a Sav-iour from God like this, our Lord JesusChrist! Throughout the book of Judgesthere are all these different redeemerswho give different angles on the greatRedeemer, our Lord Jesus Christ. Heis the Judge par excellence, the One inwhom all of these themes are takenup perfectly and in the greatest way!

Look at Christ. He too is set apartbefore He was born, from the founda-tion of the world to be our Saviour!His entire life on this earth was dedi-cated to our salvation! There was nota moment He lived where He did his“own thing.” Samson had trouble withbeing a Nazirite. But our Saviour wasalways devoted to the task the Fatherhad given Him – to accomplish ourdeliverance from sin and Satan!

He is born of a virgin! God makesan incredible beginning when we areat a dead end. He makes a new Adam,one who does not share in the fall ofthe first, in whom we can receive anew start! In Christ God offers us sal-vation that reaches beyond the wholecurse of our sin and our helplessness!

He is set apart to be our Savioureven before the enemy arrives! ThePhilistines had begun to oppress Israeland God promises Samson. But withChrist, it is even more amazing! Evenbefore the devil had fallen anddragged us all down with him, beforewe had committed even one sin, theSon of God was set apart to come tosave us! God’s salvation is not some-thing hastily thrown together, as ifthe devil and our sin surprised Him.It is not a superficial “Band-Aid” ap-proach to our problems. Before theworld began, God knew what wouldhappen and perfectly planned for itin Christ.

He comes also to us although wehave not cried out for Him. TheLORD, thankfully, did not wait for usto act before He decided to save. Inthe beginning, after Adam and Evesinned, it was God Himself who cameand gave that first promise of a Sav-iour. Adam and Eve wouldn’t havehad the boldness to ask God to savethem, much less die in their place.Would you? But thankfully God isn’tdependant on our initiative!

In Samson God showed himself tobe wonderful, even in this man’s con-ception and birth (Judges 13:18). Butwith Christ, we see something evengreater, truly the wonder of wonders!“Wonders of grace to God belong; re-peat his mercies in your song!” (Hymn61:1, Book of Praise).


Rev. M.R. Jagt is minister of the Cana-dian Reformed Church at Ottawa,Ontario.

TREASURES, NEW AND OLDMATTHEW 13:52

By M.R. Jagt

The Crescendo of Salvation“The angel of the LORD appeared to her and said, ‘You are sterile and childless,

but you are going to conceive and have a son’.”Judges 16:3

IntroductionThe Free Reformed Churches (FRC),

in their Synod of 2000, extended to theCanadian Reformed Churches (CanRC)“limited contact.” This means that weare officially invited to their synods, andthat we also receive their Acts of Synod.Because this federation is relativelysmall, there are no Classes. Instead theFRC hold a synod every year, whereevery church is represented by two del-egates. This year the synod was held inVineland, Ont., from June 4-11.

Dr. J. DeJong, who was there onbehalf of the committee for the eveningprayer service, reports that this servicewas led by Rev. K. Gangar (Bellevue,WA), who preached on Rev. 2:1-7. Heurged the delegates of Synod to work to-gether in love. Rev. Gangar also ex-pressed the hope that the proceedingsof this Synod would be characterized bya spirit of love in dealing with all the is-sues before it. Rev. G.R. Procee (Hamil-ton, Ontario) was elected as chairman.

The following day, Wednesday June5, 2002, Rev. R. Aasman and I, havingflown in the previous day from Edmon-ton, also attended. We were there thefollowing day as well, and flew homeearly Friday morning. We were warmlywelcomed and were officially seated asobservers. During these two days thevarious committee reports were tabledand discussed.

External RelationsThis committee reported on its vari-

ous activities during the year. It is thecustom in the FRC, at the request of alocal church, to have the committee ap-prove ministers from outside their fed-

eration to preach in their churches. Inorder to be approved such a ministerhas to submit himself to a ColloquiumDoctum (examination). Two ministersfrom the Heritage Netherlands Re-formed Congregations (HNRC), and oneminister from an independent churchin Lethbridge were given permission topreach. Nine others had their preachingprivileges renewed for another year.These actions were approved by theSynod.

The FRC continues to forge closerties with the HNRC. They have nearlycompleted a joint statement on Re-formed Doctrines, and are encouragingcloser contacts at the consistorial andcongregational level.

The committee also reported on itscontacts with other federations ofchurches. Of interest to us is their con-tact with the United ReformedChurches of North America (URCNA).They had one meeting with them in thepast year wherein they discussed “theAppropriation of Salvation.” It appearsthat they differ somewhat on this point,and thus further discussion is needed.

During the course of Synod, Rev.H. Zekveld, representative from the UR-CNA, was given the opportunity to ad-dress the brothers. He spoke eloquentlyabout their common heritage and ofthe need for unity. His words were wellreceived.

In the report a positive account wasgiven concerning the contact with theCanadian Reformed Churches. The re-port does state, however, that they “arenot yet ready to consider moving to-wards federative or organic unity,which is the goal of the Canadian Re-

formed delegates.” The report alsostates that there are “different emphasesin our churches, we on the true Christ-ian, and they on the true church.”

Rev. R. Aasman, when he was giventhe opportunity to address Synod on be-half of the CanRC, addressed some ofthese issues (see his address in this is-sue). Dr. L.W. Bilkes (Abbotsford, B.C.)responded warmly, but reiterated thatthe FRC is not ready to pursue federa-tive unity as vigorously as we mightlike.

Theological EducationThe students for ministry are cur-

rently being trained in the Puritan Re-formed Theological Seminary. Thisseminary was established a few yearsago by the HNRC. At this point the sem-inary has two full-time professors, onefrom the HNRC, and the other, Dr.G.M. Bilkes (son of Dr. L.W. Bilkes),from the FRC. Also ministers from therespective churches take turns to lec-ture. The agreement with the HNRC isthat the FRC will have a teaching inputof around forty-five percent.

During the course of Synod Dr.G.M. Bilkes was officially appointed asprofessor. However, since he is not anordained minister, he will not be allowedto preach.

Candidate Eric Moerdyk presentedhimself to Synod with a view to beingdeclared eligible for call. This brother,after having finished his studies inCanada (he also had a year of trainingat our College) went to the Nether-lands to obtain his “doctorandus” titlefrom the Theological University of theChristelijke Gereformeerde Kerken in


Report of the delegates of the Committee forthe Promotion of Ecclesiastical Unity to

Synod 2002 of the Free Reformed Churches of North America

By W.B. Slomp

Nederland. He was first examined bythe Theological Education Committeebefore Synod was convened. Havingsuccessfully passed that exam, he wasalso examined on the floor of Synod.This Colloquium Doctum took abouthalf an hour, and concentrated on “hispersonal sense of call and fear of theLord as well as views on the doctrinesof God’s Word.” To give him time tocomplete his studies, he will be not beeligible for call until Nov. 1, 2002.

Bible TranslationThe Ad-Hoc Bible Translation Com-

mittee was given the mandate to inves-tigate and evaluate the NKJV, and toconsider updating, in consultation withothers, the current KJV. The committeesent letters to “all denominations andChristian leaders in the Anglo-Saxonworld that … might be willing to sup-port this endeavour.” Some negativeand some positive responses were re-ceived. Other responses are still beingawaited. From the discussion on thefloor of Synod it became apparent thatthe NKJV was not to be preferred bysome because it uses “you” instead of“Thee and “Thou” as a personal pro-noun for God.

The issue concerning Bible transla-tions is quite a contentious one in theFRC. Some churches stated that theywould no longer wait for Synod to actand that they would go on their ownand use the NKJV in the worship ser-vices. They expressed the frustrationsome young people feel in having to usethe archaic language of KJV, and citethis as one of the reasons some youngpeople are leaving the church. Thechairman urged the delegates to be pa-tient and not act too unilaterally.

Other reportsSynod dealt with various other com-

mittee reports, dealing with Evangelism,Finance, Foreign and Home Missions,Publications, Theological Student Fund,and Youth and Education. It dealt mostextensively with Church Visitors Re-ports and Church Reports. It was goodto hear these reports, for it gave us aflavour of what lives in the churches.They are struggling with many of thesame issues as we do.

ConclusionWe have no doubt that the FRC

wants to be faithful to God’s Word, asit is summarized in the EcumenicalCreeds and the Three Forms of Unity. It

was a pleasure to be in their midst andto experience the hand of fellowship. Itwas evident in many ways that we sharea common heritage and thus we felt aclose bond with them.

There are notable differences, how-ever. They like to maintain the archaiclanguage of the past in their worshipservices, as evidenced by their use ofthe KJV, and old translations of the con-fessions. They also emphasize experi-ential preaching, which they claim isdifferent from our preaching. They areof the opinion that we tend towardscovenantal automatism in the preach-ing. These issues have been discussedon the committee level, and will con-tinue to be discussed. On the commit-tee level, however, we have come tothe conclusion, after having exchangedsermon tapes, that our preaching is inreality not much different from theirs.

It was a privilege for us to representthe CanRC at the Synod of the FRC.There is much we can learn from an-other as we struggle to maintain thetruth. May the Lord bless the contact be-tween the CanRC and the FRC.


Rev. W.B. Slomp is minister of theCanadian Reformed Church at Neer-landia, Alberta.

The Ancient Love Song: FindingChrist in the Old TestamentCharles D. Drew, Phillipsburg: P & R,1996 (2000), 203 pages, softcover.

The challenge is always there, bothfor ministers and others in our churches:how do we read the Old Testamentwhile keeping our eyes on Christ? Thisquestion has often been the question inReformed discussions about preachingfor the last 60 years. It’s that questionwhich this book has as its focus. The au-thor, Charles D. Drew, is the AssociatePastor at Redeemer PresbyterianChurch in Manhattan, and is a gradu-ate of Westminster Theological Semi-nary in Philadelphia.

The intriguing thing about this bookis that it isn’t a summary version of thewell-known Promise and Deliveranceby S.G. DeGraaf. Instead, this book

goes to the heart of the approach be-hind that very important and well-usedset. In academic terms, we would saythat the Ancient Love Song is about theChristology of the Old Testament. Butthis is anything but an academic book.Rather, it’s written in very plain andearthy language. Drew allows the notesof the “Love Song” to be heard with dig-ital clarity. His illustrations are engagingand his writing style is inviting. Takethis example from the last chapter: “TheExodus, the manna in the wilderness,the Conquest, and even the golden ageunder King Solomon were like prisonhouse film festivals – brief diversionsfrom the grim reality of barbed wire, im-penetrable walls, and gun-toting offi-cers.” By the way, that last chapter (“theDeath of Death”) will leave you inprayerful wonder at the complexityand beauty of God’s Word!

The Ancient Love Song can behighly recommended for personal studyuse, but it may also be found helpfulfor our study societies. To that end,each chapter features a set of questionsfor discussion and reflection. Some ofthese questions are on the weak sideand inconsistent with the tenor of thebook (e.g., “Imagine yourself as Eve…”– page 7), but the majority will kindleprofitable discussion (e.g., How doesJesus’ resurrection resolve the theologi-cal problem inherent in the Wisdom Lit-erature? – page 81). A book for pulpi-teers and pew-sitters alike, the AncientLove Song will renew appreciation forthe Old Testament and rouse us to agreater love for our Lover.

BOOK NOTES

By W.L. Bredenhof

Rev. W.L. Bredenhof is missionary inFort Babine, British Columbia.

Dear brothers, on behalf of theCanadian Reformed Churches, I ex-tend greetings to all of you. Aschurches, we remember both yourSynod and your churches in our con-gregational prayers. We value the fra-ternal contacts which we have to-gether very highly. Rev. W.B. Slompand I are most pleased to be here.

MissionsIn order to acquaint you with some

of the things going on in our churches,permit me to update you on our missionactivity, particularly on the local scene.Our churches have been active in mis-sion activity in the area of Indonesiaand Brazil. More recently, we have Rev.Frank Dong engaged in mission activ-ity among the Chinese in the greaterVancouver area; Rev. Wes Bredenhofis continuing the mission work in FortBabine, northern British Columbia. Rev.Bredenhof lives with his family at FortBabine and thus has very good contactwith the people in that area. Also,Richard Bultje is working as an evange-list in the downtown area of Hamilton,Ontario. The Lord has blessed his workrichly, guiding people from brokenbackgrounds to the church of JesusChrist. We are very thankful for theLord’s blessings in this respect.

Church relationsRev. Slomp explained our church

contacts to you at your previous synod.I do not need to repeat that. But there issomething very striking about the eccle-siastical fellowships which we estab-lished or were reciprocated after ourSynod Neerlandia 2001. We enteredinto a sister- church relationship withthe Orthodox Presbyterian Church and

the Reformed Church in the UnitedStates. We also decided to enter intoPhase 2 of unity with the United Re-formed Churches of North America.This includes such things as pulpit ex-changes. The remarkable thing, andthe very gratifying thing, is that ourchurches have accepted these develop-ments with enthusiasm. Our churchesare not known for quick or easy churchrelationships. However, our churcheshave appeared to accept recent devel-opments both quietly and gratefully. It isquite possible that with the blessing ofthe Lord, the CanRC and the URC willwork toward full federative unity in thenear future. When we see these devel-opments, then we marvel and concludethat this is not our work. We see veryclearly the hand of the Lord, and for thatwe are very thankful.

Free Reformed ChurchesBy your own definition, the CanRC

and the FRC are in a relationship knownas “limited contact.” This relationshipis very special to us, particularly be-cause of our common history datingback to 1834. Rev. Slomp and I havebeen sitting in your midst for the secondday, now, listening to the presenta-tions, discussions and decisions. Wehave been thinking that it is so good andpleasant to sit among brothers in theLord, and to see the common affinity inthe faith. As we listened to the discus-sions with a candidate for the ministry,a professor of theology, a missionary,as well as the presentations of churchvisitations, we said to ourselves, wefeel very much at home here.

The CanRC committee for ecclesi-astical contact, of which Rev. Slompand I are members, have had excellent


Address of Fraternal Delegate to the Synod of theFree Reformed Churches of North America,

June 6, 2002By R. Aasman

Rev. R. Aasman and Rev. P. VanderMeyden (FRC).

contacts with the FRC brothers whowere appointed to meet with us: Revs.L. W. Bilkes, K. Gangar, H. Overduin,and W. Wullschleger. Our discussionshave been productive. We focussed onperceived differences, and we spentconsiderable time discussing covenan-tal automatism. We also exchangedsermons. After listening to each other’ssermons, we concluded from bothsides that the sermons were much ap-preciated. This was a cause for realthanksgiving.

Because of the good progress in ourtalks together, it came as a bit of a sur-prise yesterday when it was stated atthis synod that the difference betweenthe CanRC and the FRC could be typi-fied by the former emphasizing themarks of the church, and the latter em-phasizing the marks of the Christian.Brothers, this is a caricature. Perhapsthe blame for this lies with the CanRCwho may have done things to give thatimpression. I refer to the report of yoursubcommittee which mentions that ithappens within the CanRC that during awithdrawal, someone is announced as“withdrawing from the church of JesusChrist,” or “withdrawing from thechurch of Jesus Christ in this place.”This can even happen when such aperson is joining a FRC. We have al-ready explained to the brothers in theFRC subcommittee, that we cannotagree with such an announcement, par-ticularly when it involves someone go-ing from a CanRC to a FRC. We aresorry that such things happen, and thatthey may give the impression that theCanRC regards itself as the only “truechurch.” We acknowledge and rejoicein the fact that the FRC are truechurches of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Marks of the churchBrothers, we may say that the marks

of the church are important to us, in linewith what we confess in the Belgic Con-fession, article 29. This is not meant togive ourselves a pat on the back, butthis is meant to make us strive to befaithful churches of Jesus Christ. Weare to strive, even as you do, for faithfulpreaching, pure administration of thesacraments, and biblical church disci-pline. What is important is for us is nota checklist which ratifies that the marksare kept, but that through faithfulpreaching, along with the sacramentsand church discipline, the Holy Spiritis the seal who places Jesus Christ onour hearts, and that instead of grievingthe Holy Spirit, we give our lives inthanksgiving and obedience to the gloryof God! This leads to church memberswho show the marks of a Christian,that is, a living faith that flees from sinand pursues righteousness.

Get to know usI have the feeling that the FRC min-

isters out west have come to know usfairly well in recent years, and togetherwe have formed a close bond. I sus-pect that in the east there is not thesame kind of interaction and knowl-edge of one another. I would suggest,and I make the plea, that we get toknow one another better in the comingyears. It is so easy to let certain stereo-types and anecdotal evidence colourour relationship. If, after you get toknow us well and we have some goodmutual discussions, and you concludethat there is not a good basis for estab-lishing greater unity, then we can re-spect that decision. That is because itwill be a decision based on facts and

brotherly discussions. However, it isour hope and prayer, and our belief,that better discussions at the federa-tive and local levels will only convinceus of the one faith that unites us.

UnityI will not repeat what Rev. H.

Zekveld of the United ReformedChurches said yesterday about the needto work toward unity among faithfulchurches of Jesus Christ. We agree withhim totally, and we applaud his en-couraging words. May the Lord blessyour work as Synod, and your work inthe local congregations. May the Lordalso bless the discussions which theCanRC and FRC hope to continue in thecoming years.


Rev. R. Aasman is minister of theProvidence Canadian ReformedChurch in Edmonton, Alberta.

CHURCH NEWS

Bethel Canadian Reformed Church at Toronto

Effective July 7, 2002 Worship services will be held atThornhill Presbyterian Church

271 Centre Street, Thornhill, ONAt 9:00 am and 4:00pm

Church Mailing address:Bethel Canadian Reformed Church at TorontoP.O. Box 32180, 250 Harding Blvd.

Richmond Hill, ON L4C 9S3

Phot

oby

Cor

Lodd

er

In the month of April Christian Re-newal published an English translationof Prof. J. Douma’s letter to the GeneralSynod of Zuidhorn, 2002. Prof. Doumais an emeritus professor of ethics of theTheological University in Kampen, andcurrently lives in Hoogeveen, Holland.In the letter, Douma expresses regretconcerning his own role in the conflictthat led to a division in the churches inthe sixties, and also asks the Synod toformulate a statement of apology con-cerning the way Rev. B.J.F. Schoep ofAmersfoort was treated in 1966. Prof.Douma’s regret concerns specificallythe way things developed and unfoldedat the time. While for the most part thisconflict did not affect Reformedchurches in North America, ourchurches are perhaps the most involvedbecause of our continued relations withthe Reformed Churches (Liberated).

It is not my intention to reprint theentire letter of Prof. Douma here sinceChristian Renewal is also widely readby readers of Clarion. However, it maybe appropriate for us to deal with thecomments that Dr. N. Kloosterman, thetranslator of the piece, added to histranslation of Douma’s letter. Here thenfollows Dr. Kloosterman’s comments:

Most of us are unfamiliar with thehistorical details surrounding the1967 Dutch church split. So it mayrequire another read of Dr. Douma’sexplanation of the synodical con-demnation of the Open Letter in or-der to comprehend precisely what itis that he is acknowledging as wrong.

“Nailing the other person downto conclusions that we draw,” writes

Douma, “without taking into ac-count what he himself intended, ormay upon further reflection intend,engenders alienation.”

That sentence summarizes thefirst mistake made by the GeneralSynod of Amersfoort-West, namely,acting not on the basis of explicitdeclarations, but on the basis of im-plications which the synod thoughtwere necessarily contained in theOpen Letter. Merely asking thequestion whether the confessionalfoundation of the Liberated Re-formed Churches was identical tothe foundation of the catholic Chris-tian church was thought to be ade-quate warrant for accusing the sig-natories of casting suspicion on theReformed confessions.

Another related error was thatthe synod attributed these impliedconclusions to every signatory ofthe Open Letter, when in factmany of those signatories hadthemselves not drawn the conclu-sions which the synod thoughtwere necessarily implied.

A third mistake was that thesynod did not allow a man whoseviews were considered objection-able (Rev. B.J.F. Schoep) the oppor-tunity to explain, and defend him-self. It may certainly have been thecase that his ecumenical sympathieswould have led to a softening ofcommitment to the Reformed con-fessions. But before condemninghim on the basis of his allegedly er-roneous confessional commitment,the synod should have given him achance to explain his views fully.

I believe we can learn from thisrecent Dutch Reformed church his-tory. Put a bit more forcefully: Ibelieve we must learn from this his-tory, and soon, among the URCNA.We ourselves can easily succumbto the alienation engendered by therhetorical practice of nailing some-one down to implications of some-

thing said or written without both-ering to investigate whether thoseimplications are in fact understoodor intended.

At this point the unsympatheticreader might be saying, “It doesn’treally matter whether such impli-cations are understood or intendedby the author. If what was said orwritten necessarily implies the con-clusion I am drawing, then on thatbasis alone it is worthy of condem-nation.” The formula for this con-demnation lies ready at hand: “Ifsomeone criticizes a familiar formu-lation of doctrine ‘x,’ that personwill necessarily end up denying thegospel (or the Reformed faith, orthe Confession)”

I believe Dr. Douma’s analysisprovides a healthy reminder thatwe need to exercise fraternal cau-tion when it comes to rhetoric andjudgments of this sort. Instead, weare obligated to investigate whetherin fact such alleged implicationsare understood, intended, and de-fended. Surely the judgement ofcharity demands nothing less.

It is of course always easy to criticizedecisions or actions made by synods af-ter the fact. No synod is perfect, and,even if the intentions are well-meant,sometimes the end results are taintedwith error. However, I question notonly the accuracy of Dr. Kloosterman’s


PRESS REVIEW

By J. De Jong

A Letter in Discussion

Douma expresses regretconcerning his own role in

the conflict that led to adivision in the churches in

the sixties.

“Let me summarize myview on this, – which the

editorial board requested ofme – in a few words: the

proposal of Douma is well-meant, wrongly presented,and hence – sadly enough –

not effective to its statedpurpose.” C. Trimp

criticism against Amersfoort-West asdrawn from Prof. Douma’s letter, butalso the overall usefulness of thesecriticisms for us in 2002.

Regarding both the accuracy andthe usefulness of these criticisms, itmay be helpful for us to listen to anotherperson directly involved in the conflictof the sixties, Prof. C. Trimp. Upon re-quest, he provided the journal NaderBekeken with his comments concerningDouma’s letter. Here follow his com-ments (my translation):

On January 19, Dr. J. Doumasent his public letter to the forth-coming Synod of Zuidhorn. He re-quests this synod to draft a state-ment of apology with regard to thecourse of events at the Synod ofAmersfoort-West, the synod whichrefused to receive the Rev. B.J.F.Schoep as a delegate of the churchesof North Holland.

This rupture between the synodand Rev. Schoep marked the begin-ning of the separation of a numberof churches in North Holland fromthe federation of the ReformedChurches. The subsequent Synod ofHoogeveen (1969) refused to receivea delegation from those churches.That action precipitated a permanentsplit between the ReformedChurches (Liberated) and what be-came the Netherlands ReformedChurches (referred to as “buiten ver-band” for many years, JDJ).

The so-called Open Letter ofOctober 31, 1966 was the occasionof this severe conflict which beganto manifest itself in Amersfoort in1967. Dr. Douma wants to go backto the beginning and hopes to un-dertake a breakthrough with regardto the shameful fact of this ecclesi-astical rupture between the Re-formed Churches (Liberated) (GKV)and the Netherlands ReformedChurches (NGK).

He regards it as necessary andhonourable to introduce this break-through with the above mentionedconfession of guilt. Since the letterto ‘Zuidhorn’ has been freely dis-

tributed in the public press, we allcan read along.

We can recognize in this letterthe Douma known to us all: a clearargument, a genuine, open-heartedposition statement, an openly-statedsorrow because of the division ofthe Reformed believers in our coun-try, a heartfelt desire to heal thebreach, a warm- hearted approachto people who since 1967 went an-other way than he did (because ofother viewpoints), and a readinesswithout reservations to admit hisown errors and shortcomings.

How should we, who naturallyknow ourselves to be involved withthis initiative and who can read thisletter, evaluate this initiative of ouremeritus professor? Let me summa-rize my view on this, – which theeditorial board requested of me – ina few words: the proposal of Doumais well-meant, wrongly presented,and hence – sadly enough – not ef-fective to its stated purpose.

I would like to clarify this ulti-mately negative judgment with thefollowing four points:1. The basis of our ecclesiastical

fellowship is our common faithcommitment, as this has beenformulated in our confessionalstatements. This foundation ofour ecclesiastical fellowship isthe basis and norm of our inter-action with each other as be-lievers and as churches.

It goes without saying thatwhen we meet each other at ec-clesiastical assemblies (consis-tory, classis, synod, and so on)this basis cannot be lacking. It’sthe basis of our whole ecclesi-astical life. Hence the first pointon the agenda at our major as-semblies is the submission ofcredentials from which it is clearthat a) the brothers have beenauthorized by the minor assem-blies (beginning with the con-sistory) to function as represen-tatives of the sending churchand b) the brothers previouslyhad promised that the norm ofall ecclesiastical life was to berespected, i.e., the confessions,in agreement with the adoptedchurch order.

Therefore it is a distinct mo-ment at the general synod whenthe delegates rise together toconfirm the above-mentionedconfessional allegiance. This

means at the same time receiv-ing each other as co-members ofthe assembly. And only then isthe assembly really in existence,and legally constituted. A goodReformed custom since 1571!

At the synod of Amersfoort1967, at the time of the declara-tion of agreement with the con-fessions, it happened that onedelegate from North Hollandwas not accepted by the assem-bly. It was felt that the positionof Rev. Schoep was not in agree-ment with his expressed ac-knowledgement of the confes-sion, and reference was madeto the Open Letter which he hadsigned. Rev. Schoep left thesynod, and the ecclesiastical di-vision started to manifest itself.

2. Dr. Douma’s letter is concernedwith this moment (Acts, Article18, April 16, 1967). Douma isdefinitely not defending theOpen Letter itself. But – withmore reflection – he does havegenuine regret regarding thecourse of events at the time. Heasks the synod to review theprocess of events and to takeback its errors with a confessionof guilt.

A central complaint (Doumacalls it an ethical issue) is thatthe Synod came to its judgmentregarding Rev. Schoep withoutany form of a hearing orcounter-hearing. Here in myview the argument of my es-teemed colleague derails.

The Acts make clear thatRev. Schoep refused to speak.Rev. Schoep felt that he couldnot speak concerning the mate-rial that had been tabled. “Thefirst time that I will speak con-cerning the complaints broughtforward will be at what I see as a


“Anyone who submits anappeal 35 years after thefact in effect puts a newissue on the agenda of

synod.” C. Trimp

“I also do not at all findthat the Open Letter was

open to a two-foldinterpretation. The letter

had the tone of a manifesto.It was as if people were

determining their positions.Personally I saw it as aprovocation.” C. Trimp

properly qualified gathering,wherever it is held, and onlywhen a further explanation ofmy position will be requested.”

Everyone who reads theActs, Article 9 to 16 will haveto agree that the central com-plaint of the letter writer (Dr.Douma) is incorrect.1

The poor presentation towhich I referred is also clearfrom the fact that the assemblyof appeal with regard to the de-cisions of Amersfoort-West1967 would be the synod ofHoogeveen 1969, or – if neces-sary – the Synod of Hattem(1972). Anyone who submits anappeal 35 years after the fact ineffect puts a new issue on theagenda of synod.

The decisions of Amersfoort-West and Hoogeveen were in-tegrated into our ecclesiasticallife around 1973, when thechurches regained their stability.

No one knows better thanDr. Douma that at Hoogeveena lot of work was done with re-gard to the previous synod andthe effects of its decisions, espe-cially in North Holland. As thereporter Dr. Douma managedto fill 56 pages describing theseissues, (Acts, Appendices 10-12)

It is not possible in this con-nection to review all of the ma-terial surrounding the OpenLetter. Besides there is hardlyany difference of opinion onthese matters between Doumaand myself.

Furthermore, it must benoted that at the time (in Ams-terdam on June 23, 1967, seeDe Reformatie, vol. 42, p. 323,330) Dr. Douma went out of hisway to accommodate Rev.Schoep on the point of the in-terpretation of the so-called“foundational” sentence in theOpen Letter, (i.e., the issuewhether the Dutch confession,the Three Forms of Unity, andthe doctrine of the catholicChristian church are identical).At this occasion, with much dis-appointment, Dr. Douma hadto take leave of Rev. Schoep, asis clear from the report. In myview, Douma then became thevictim of his own goodwill (SeeDe Reformatie, August 5, 1967).

Hence it puzzles me that in2002 Douma still has not re-solved the identity issue (i.e., de-claring the confessions as identi-cal with the doctrine of thecatholic Christian church, JDJ).2

Regardless of the material ofthe Open Letter, the fact remainsthat the letter to Zuidhorn is be-ing presented 35 years after thefact. And that’s not all. All theminor assemblies – the first bod-ies mentioned in the Church Or-der to determine the agenda ofa general synod – were com-pletely bypassed.3

With this one man cam-paign towards Zuidhorn (with-out the involvement of any mi-nor assemblies) Dr. Doumaobstructs his own stated objec-tive, that is, reconciliation withthe NGK through a confessionof guilt on the part of us all. Be-fore a general synod does any-thing like that, I would first liketo hear the voices of the localconsistories.

To give an example close tohome: in Kampen a few thingsalso happened on the localscene around the 1967 issues.For many in this congregationthe decision of Hoogeveen wasexperienced as a liberating step!

3. As a church federation we arenot bound to qualify opinions,arguments or actions of 1967some 35 years later, (e.g., ec-clesiastical exclusivism). A gen-eral synod does not get togetherfor that purpose. A synod mustjudge concrete words and ac-tions that have been brought toit in the lawful way.4

In the sixties of the previouscentury we had to deal with con-crete issues: troubles in Breda,Beverwijk and Groningen-South. The issue of cooperativeendeavour (for example, in the

political arena) was not an ec-clesiastical issue at the time. AndDr. Douma was not the onlyone who now and in the pastspoke out against exaggeratedor reactionary accentuations.5

That after many years Dr.Douma sees several issues in adifferent light and therefore hasregret concerning aspects of hisown actions or omissions inthose years does not in any waydishonour him. But this is not amatter that a general synod hasto deal with. On these pointsAnother will give his judgment.

Besides, Douma’s change ofperspective should not meanthat we all need make a similarabout face, and then on top ofthat, via a synod statementmade on behalf of the churches.

We all undoubtedly desirethe restoration of the peace ofthe GKV and NGK. For years thedeputies of our synods havebeen working on this. Let’s allread and judge their reports. Buton this point we read very littlein the letter to Zuidhorn.

4. Should the synod of Zuidhorndeclare Dr. Douma’s letter ad-missible, then I permit myself toadd one more word of warning.

If it appears permissible afterseveral decades via a one mansolo action to tie up a synodand set the delegates to workon issues dealt with long ago,then we will have to hold manyextra synods. One example, asan illustration: In the Acts of theSynod of Assen 1926 one findsthe decision to suspend and de-pose Dr. J. G. Geelkerken (Acts,Art. 209/219 and 242). Quite abit can be said about this deci-sion, and if desired a lot of com-mentary can be brought in. Justread the recent publications onthis issue. But anyone whowants to review the history ofthe Reformed Churches in Hol-land via after-the-fact-judgmentsor by revisiting synod decisionswill without any doubt crumbleunder the weight of the work.It’s an impossible job, and un-called for as well.

My conclusion: we agreewith Douma’s warning againstthe “chaotization” of the eccle-siastical federative community.6


Rev. Schoep received theopportunity to speak, and

actually addressed the synodmore than once. To be sure,he declined to go into the

issues, but that was his owndecision.

To these remarks of Prof. Trimp, whichare clear in themselves, I would onlyadd the following points in regard tothe position taken by Dr. Douma andDr. Kloosterman:1. It seems to me inaccurate to suggest

that the authors of the Open Letterwere “merely asking a question.”The synod made the statement thatraising the issue in the manner thatit occurred was tantamount toputting the validity and sufficiencyof the doctrinal standards of the Lib-erated churches in dispute. Why?Clearly the next two questions ofthe Open Letter, with their openingwords indicated that the signatorieswere ambivalent on the identity is-sue, and that explicit ambivalenceput them in conflict with their ownsubscription to the Reformed confes-sions. Besides, their approach putthe basis of the churches in disputewithout following a proper church-orderly procedure.

2. It appears rather loaded to charge asynod with errors when in fact allthe signatories not only knew whatthey were signing (they had readit) but also knew that the state-ments contained in the Open Letterdid in fact put the confessional ba-sis of the churches in dispute. Tobe sure, Douma suggests the dele-gates were not entirely aware ofwhat they were signing. But whatproof can be offered for that asser-tion? Besides, the signatories (forthe most part ministers) could wellhave understood that the proce-dure for submitting a gravamen tothe confession was not correctly

followed by sending out an OpenLetter which cast suspicion on thatbasis, and which was essentiallydesigned to support a schismaticaction in a local church.

On this point, Prof. Trimp alsoprovides a different approach. Hesays: “You sign for what the state-ment says. I also do not at all findthat the Open Letter was open to atwo-fold interpretation. The letterhad the tone of a manifesto. It wasas if people were determining theirpositions. Personally I saw it as aprovocation.”7 All this is more than“merely asking a question.”

3. Dr. Douma, and following him, Dr.Kloosterman also suggest that Rev.Schoep was judged without havingany opportunity to defend himself.But has Dr. Kloosterman examinedthe accuracy of Douma’s position?I do not think so. Rev. Schoep re-ceived the opportunity to speak,and actually addressed the synodmore than once.8 To be sure, he de-clined to go into the issues, but thatwas his own decision. Besides, hehad made his position clear in anarticle which he had previouslypublished in the magazine Woorden wereld. Douma asserts thatSchoep’s article was not relevant tothe issue at hand. But why not?Schoep’s public writings (there wereother articles as well) served to in-dicate where he stood. Furthermore,the references to his writings werebrought forward in a lawful way bythe Regional Synod of Drenthe.

It is not my intention to suggestthat Amersfoort-West 1967 was a

faultless synod. But I certainly ques-tion the haste in which these so-called “mistakes” are presented. Ibelieve Dr. Kloosterman is drawingvery heavily on Dr. Douma withoutproviding any of his own supportingevidence. No doubt we can all learnfrom Douma’s comments, and thoseof Dr. Kloosterman as well. We canall agree that synod judgments needto be characterized by fairness andequity. But synods do not functionlike secular courts, and no oneshould expect that of them either. Ican only concur with the remarksof Prof. Trimp that ultimatelyDouma’s position, although wellmeant, cannot be supported by thefacts themselves.

1This will be even clearer for those whoconsider that at the Synod of Amersfoort-West the rebuttal of Rev. Schoep given atthe Regional Synod of North Holland, wasreproduced and answered in its decisionof August 25, 1967 (Acts, Article 161,162, pp. 160-170).2 Trimp writes that the term “identity” or“correspondence” (Dutch:”samenvallen”)is rather unfortunate in this connection.3Precisely Art. 33 KO (the Dutch ChurchOrder, JDJ) which refers to eventualchanges in decisions made by generalsynods draws the attention to the role ofthe minor assemblies.4See De Reformatie, vol. 42, p. 326: J.Douma about the suspension of J. Van derSchaft – completely in the line of theSynod of Rotterdam-Delfshaven 1964(Acts, pp. 56-60). 5 Let me limit the comments to myself: al-ready in the Open Response Letter of De-cember 20, 1966, (De Reformatie, 24December, vol. 42, p. 99) I wrote about“the cold, legalistic zeal, narrow-mind-edness, introverted attitudes, conser-vatism, sterility, self-satisfied airs, judaistzealousness, and pharisaical arrogance”in our circles. See also my article “Unityand Reunion” in De Reformatie, vol. 63,(November 7, 1987) 134-138.6 J. Douma, De Reformatie, vol. 42, p. 331(August 5, 1967).7 Quoted in Nederlands Dagblad, October26, 1991.8 See R. Kuiper, W. Bouwman (eds) Vuuren vlam. Aspecten van het vrijgemaakt-gereformeerde leven 1944-1969, (Buiten& Schipperheijn, Amsterdam, 1994)231ff.


Dr. J. De Jong is principal and pro-fessor of Diaconiology and Ecclesi-ology at the Theological College ofthe Canadian Reformed Churches inHamilton, Ontario.

Prof. J. Douma

Prof. C. Trimp


The Plan of the Master Weaver

Our lives are but fine weavingsThat God for us prepares,Each life becomes a fabric plannedAnd fashioned in His care.We may not always see just howThe weavings intertwine,But we must trust the Master’s handAnd follow His design,For He can view the patternUpon the upper side,While we must look from underneathAnd trust in Him to guide,Sometimes a strand of sorrowIs added to His plan,And though it’s difficult for us,We still must understandThat it’s He who fills the holeIt’s He who knows what’s best,So we must weave in patienceAnd leave to Him the rest.Not till the loom is silentAnd the shuttles cease to flyShall God unroll the canvasAnd explain the reason why—The dark threads are as neededIn the Weaver’s skillful HandAs the threads of gold and silverIn the pattern He has planned.

Jesus is our sure defence.Why should we then fear or waver?All our hope and confidenceRests on Him, the risen Saviour.Even in our darkest hourHe will shield us with His power.

God His own shall glorifyIn a wondrous transformation:Though not all of us may die,All shall gain their full salvationIn the twinkling of an eyeWhen the Lord comes from on high.

Hymn 51:1, 5

Birthdays in August:

4: TERENCE BERENDS will turn 26Anchor Home, 361, Thirty Road, RR 2Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0

5: PHILIP SCHUURMAN will be 4365 Lincoln Street West, Welland, ON L3C 5J3

9: ROSE MALDA will be 45Oakland Centre, 53 Bond Street, Oakville, ON L6J 5B4

18: FENNY KUIK will turn 50140 Foch Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R2C 5H7

23: JACK DIELEMAN will be 305785 Young Street, Apt. 704Willowdale, ON M2M 4J2

Congratulations to you all on your birthday ! Mayour heavenly God and Father bless you throughout thisnew year with much health and happiness. Have an en-joyable day together with your family and friends.

Till next month,

Mrs. Corinne Gelms and Mrs. Erna NordemanMailing correspondence:

548 Kemp Road EastRR 2 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B2

1-905-563-0380

RAY OF SUNSHINE

By Mrs. Corinne Gelms and Mrs. Erna Nordeman

CRTA-East Convention’sKeynote Address:Covenantal EducationRevisited

By K. SikkemaThe eastern CRTA Teachers’ Con-

vention took place in rural Attercliffein November 2001, and the weatherwas nice enough for many teachers toforego the option of taking the shuttlebus between the church and the schooland to walk instead. The theme of theconvention was “Thank the Lord andCome with Praise,” and the decorationsthroughout the school were certainlyreminiscent of agricultural goodness.

Keynote addressIn his keynote address1, Rev. Cl.

Stam began by sharing his reflections ona speech he did for the CRTA in Janu-ary, 1979. Among the speeches pre-sented to the CRTA in the mid-seven-ties was one by Dr. F.G. Oosterhoffabout the biblical image of man. In it,

there had been an emphasis on the na-ture of being created in the image ofGod, such as intelligence and rational-ity, which sets man aside from othercreatures. Clearly man was placedabove animals, and Rev. Stam appreci-ated the positive approach in thatspeech. However, he did not find itconvincing as a notion that sets ourchildren apart from those of unbeliev-ers: the image of God is valid for allstudents and all teachers. As such, itcould not function as a basis or foun-dation for Reformed education.

Rather, Rev. Stam would start withthe form for Baptism in our Book ofPraise, which shows that there is notmuch left of man’s initial goodnessbut total depravity. As the Canons ofDort put it, we even use our left-overgood against God. Just like one can seefrom the remaining foundations of anold barn what the structure must oncehave been like, the image of God thatis left in us is but a ruin that needs to berebuilt. The main point is that our chil-dren are sanctified in Christ. That istheir unique position which does nothold true for children of unbelievers.Even as little infants, our children sharein the merits Christ earned on thecross. These covenant kids want last-ing relationships, are open to the pre-sent culture and other faiths, and atthe same time they are scared of thereal world out there. They struggleand need to be reminded that they areindeed covenant children of God, andthat problems they experience may beresolved on that basis. God said thatthey are his, and they should be treatedthat way.

Without ignoring what is in thechild and their individual differences,we must not build our education onthe image we have of them; rather, weshould build on the covenant which isabout what God said to that child: hebelongs to God. This is the central andsimple idea of the covenant: I am yourGod, and you are my people. Covenan-tal education must start with what thechildren are: God’s people, and theaim must be to let them become whatthey already are. A classroom full ofchildren that are God’s people can bebrutal at times, and stiff-necked like theIsraelites in Moses’ days, and no betterthan others. We should not be surprisedthat our children act no better thanthose of unbelievers despite years ofChristian upbringing; nor should we be-come obsessed with that observation.We are God’s children by grace alone.What we are is what God has made ofus, and if we realize that as educators,we won’t come down hard on them.

Some, including Dr. Oosterhoff andthe late Rev. J. D. Wielenga, postulatedthat the term “covenantal education”

had become part of our standard termi-nology. As it didn’t work as well as wehad hoped, we kind of let go of it. How-ever, one aspect of the covenant is thatGod does not deal with us in one pointin time only, but from the womb to thegrave, our whole life-time. The eightyears of elementary school don’t alwaysreap instant fruits, but in the long run itdoes make a difference. One can standamazed at who makes public professionof faith at such occasions. Indeed,building a Christian is a matter of a life-time, and teachers are part of the build-ing committee and the work-force.

Practical but not pragmaticWhile practical, we are not prag-

matic. It appears that the Dutch havepragmatically adopted a mentality ofchucking out what doesn’t work, for in-stance in the liturgy and preaching. Ifthe old style doesn’t work anymore,this mentality appears to turn to narra-tive preaching instead of preachingChrist. Rev. Wielenga didn’t wantteachers to touch the children’s reli-gious life, even though Peter says thatwe rejoice in the salvation of their souls.We are concerned about their eternalsalvation. It seems that Rev. Wielengacould never come away from his ownnegative and unspiritual school experi-ence, and that this background set thetone of his negative stance towardsChristian schools in general. To him,faith and faith education was a matterfor the church. However, children mustlearn to see all they are taught in thecontext of God’s service. They arecovenant children, called to live onthis earth that is passing away, and des-tined to live on the new world that willnot pass away. If something does notseem to work at this moment, it may


EDUCATION MATTERS

The image of God isvalid for all students and allteachers. As such, it couldnot function as a basis orfoundation for Reformed

education.

Covenantal educationmust start with what the

children are: God’s people,and the aim must be to letthem become what they

already are.

work and bear fruit later. There is noreason to abandon something that isgood “because it doesn’t work.” Thereis no reason to stop talking aboutcovenantal education.

Impression of guaranteeSome twenty-five years after his ini-

tial speech, Rev. Stam feels he gave toomuch the impression that the covenantis a contract with guaranteed election.But with a contract, as in a sale, thereis no lasting relationship. The covenantis a living relationship that needs ongo-ing work. Every Sunday that God says,“I love you,” we must say, “I love you”back to God. In that way it is just like amarriage. We don’t throw out marriagebecause some don’t work, either. If weread the Bible, we find many covenan-tal passages in both the Old and NewTestaments, as God is constantly ex-ploring and explaining the relationshipwith His people. God comes down toman time and again to spruce up the

covenant with Adam, Abraham, Moses,David, Israel, and so on. He also makesus feel warm by rekindling our loveand our faith.

There is no room for a haughty “weare the true church” mentality, but thecovenant is a relationship in which wereceive God’s love. The term “covenantof grace,” as a legal term, is actuallyunfortunate, as it limits our understand-ing of God’s love, caring, attention,compassion, longsuffering, and faith-fulness. This is what we have to bringto our children in the classroom. Wemust teach pastorally, unfolding mater-ial to them through telling, question-ing, discussing, concluding, andthrough challenging our children tothink. Our curriculum should also beChrist centred, and besides aiming forcognitive learning outcomes, it mustalso hit the affective domain. We neednot aim for affective outcomes, and notall growth needs to be measured. God’scovenant of love is there for each of

them individually, but also collectivelyas a community. We should also showthat we care for the students and othersoutside the classroom, and interact withthem, and pray for them. “Studentsdon’t care what you know, unless theyknow that you care.”

Rev. Stam did not make a dramaticchange in his position on the topic since1979. As there were not many teachersin the audience that heard the originalpresentation, it was good to have thisbrought to our attention again as a re-fresher to think of reformed educationas covenantal education.

1This report of his speech has been en-riched with comments Rev. Stam made atthe National Principal’s Conference.


Mr. Keith Sikkema is a grade 8teacher and vice-principal at JohnCalvin School in Smithville, Ontario.

The Theological College of the Canadian Reformed Churches

The Thirty-third Anniversary Meeting and the Twenty-eighth Convocation of the Theological College

will be held, D.V., on

Friday, September 6, 2002 at 8:00 p.m.in the auditorium of Redeemer College (777 Garner Road East, Ancaster, Ontario)

Prof. G.H. Visscher, TH. DRS. will speak on the topic:

“So What Does Separate the Sheep from the Goats?”A Closer Look at a Misunderstood Parable (Matthew 25:31-46)

The Master of Divinity Degree will be conferred on:

Edwer Yaner Dethan • Walter Geurts • Julius Van Spronsen

A Collection will be taken for the Foreign Student Bursary(TAX RECEIPTS AVAILABLE)

o

o

Press Release of Classis OntarioWest, June 12, 2002, held inChatham, Ontario

1. OpeningOn behalf of the convening Church

of Chatham Rev. H. Versteeg called themeeting to order. He requested the del-egates to sing from Psalm 113:1, afterwhich he read from 1 Samuel 2:1-10and led in prayer.

2. CredentialsThe delegates from Chatham exam-

ined the credentials and found them tobe in good order. Classis was declaredconstituted. The officers are Rev. J. Slaa- chairman, Rev. J. E. Ludwig - clerk andRev. Versteeg - vice chairman.

Rev. Slaa took the chair andthanked the Church at Chatham for itswork as convening church and wel-comes everyone. A special welcomewas expressed to br. Julius VanSpronsenand his wife and br. Edwer Dethan andhis fiancée. Br. VanSpronsen requestedpreparatory examination in order todeclared eligible to the ministry of theWord and br. Dethan requested to beexamined with a view to speaking anedifying Word in the churches. Grades3-6 of the Eben- Ezer Christian Schoolof Chatham were also welcomed. Asmatters of memorabilia Rev. Slaa men-tioned that Rev. J. E. Ludwig acceptedthe call extended to him by GrandRapids. Grand Rapids was congratu-lated. The Church at Glanbrook wasalso congratulated with the installationof their minister, Rev. D. Vandeburgt,who was present for the first time inthis classis.

3. Adoption of the agendaThe agenda for this meeting was

adopted after some modification.

4. Signing of the subscription formAfter the subscription form was

read, it was willingly signed by Rev.Vandeburgt.

5. Examination of br. J. VanSpronsenBr. J. VanSpronsen was examined to

be declared eligible for call. Br.VanSpronsen delivered his sermon pro-posal on 1 Samuel 2:1-10. It was dis-cussed in closed session. Classis judgedthe sermon proposal to be sufficient and

decided to proceed with the rest of theexamination. Br. VanSpronsen is exam-ined in Old Testament exegesis, Psalm16 and Jonah 1, in New Testament ex-egesis, Romans 12, as well as in theknowledge of doctrine and creeds. Itwas discussed in closed session. Clas-sis judged the examination to be suffi-cient. Br. VanSpronsen was declared el-igible for call. The chairman requestedClassis to sing Psalm 118:1 and theclerk, Rev. Ludwig led in thanksgivingprayer.

6. Examination of br. E. Dethan Br. Dethan delivered his sermon

proposal on Luke 9:46-50. The sermonproposal was discussed in closed ses-sion. Classis decided to proceed withthe rest of the examination. Br. Dethanwas examined in the knowledge of doc-trine and creeds. It was discussed inclosed session. Classis granted br. De-than permission to speak an edifyingWord in the churches for a period ofone year. The chairman requested clas-sis to sing Psalm 147:1 and Rev. G. Ph.VanPopta led in thanksgiving prayer.

7. Approbation of call of Rev J. E.Ludwig to the Church at GrandRapids

The Church at Grand Rapids askedthat the call to Rev. J. E. Ludwig be ap-probated. After the pertinent documentswere examined and found to be in goodorder, the call was approbated. The in-stallation of Rev. Ludwig will takeplace, D.V., on Sunday September 1,2002 in the a.m. service. The Churchat Kerwood is appointed to representclassis.

8. Question Period (CO 44)All churches affirmed that the ministry

of the office-bearers is being continuedand the decisions of broader assembliesare being honoured. Several churches re-quested advice from Classis. Advice wasgiven. Rev. Slaa was appointed as coun-selor for the Church at London.

9. Proposal re inviting fraternaldelegates.

The Church at Ancaster presented aproposal with respect to inviting frater-nal delegates to our meetings of classis.Classis decided to appoint a church tofunction as contact for other Churches.

10. Reportsa) Classis received a report from the

new classical treasurer, br. B. Van-derhout of Hamilton. The assess-ment for classical expenses was setat $6.00 per communicant member.Classis decided to establish mileageallowance according to Canadiangovernment guidelines.

b) Classis received a report from thefund for needy students. The Churchof Chatham, as deputy church of thefund for needy students, was re-quested to split the funds equallywith the newly appointed deputychurch of classis Niagara, theChurch of Lincoln.

c) The Church at Kerwood gave a re-port on their examination of theclassical archives.

d) The church visitors reported on theirvisit to the church at Grand Rapids.

11. Appointmentsa) convening Church for next Classis:

Glanbrookb) suggested officers:

chairman – Rev. Cl. Stamvice-chairman – Rev. J. Slaaclerk – Rev. J. Ludwig

c) date: September 18, 2002 d) delegates appointed for Regional

Synod to be held September 4, 2002Ministers: Revs. Cl. Stam and G. VanPopta; Alternates: Revs. J. Slaa and J.Ludwig; Elders: brs. B. Harsevoortand P. Kingma; Alternates: brs. A.Dieleman and A. Witten.

e) Church for contact with otherchurches: the Church of Kerwood.

f) Church treasurer: br. B. Vanderhout.

12. Personal question periodOpportunity was given for personal

questions.

13. Censure ad Article 34. C.O.Chairman thankfully noted that cen-

sure was not necessary.

14. Adoption of Acts and PressRelease

The Acts were adopted and PressRelease was approved.

15. ClosingThe chairman requested the Classis

to sing Hymn 58:1, 2 and then he ledin prayer. The chairman closed classis.

H. VersteegVice-chairman


PRESS RELEASE

Press Release of Classis CentralOntario, June 14, 20021. On behalf of the convening Church

at Burlington Ebenezer, the Rev. G.Nederveen called the meeting to or-der. He read James 1:1-18, led inprayer and requested the brothers tosing Psalm 99:1,2,3,6. Rev. Ned-erveen welcomed the Rev. R.Sikkema as observer from theUnited Reformed Churches.

2. The credentials were examined bythe delegates of Toronto. There wasone instruction which was added tothe Agenda as item 8.2

3. Classis was constituted. The ap-pointed officers were: Rev. J. DeGelder, chairman; Rev. G. Nederveen,vice-chairman; Rev. C. Bosch, clerk.

4. Memorabilia: Rev. J. DeGelderthanked the convening church forpreparing Classis. He wished br.Walter Geurts well with his prepara-tory examination. He rememberedthe Church at Burlington-Water-down in her search for a new pas-tor and teacher since Rev. W. B.Slomp had declined the call ex-tended to him. The chairmanwished the brothers the blessing ofthe Lord in the search to fill this va-cancy. The Church at Toronto wasdisappointed when their call to theRev. T. Lodder for the mission inPNG was declined, but has just ex-tended a call to candidate JuliusVanSpronsen for the mission work.Flamborough congregation is mov-ing towards purchasing property fortheir church facilities.

5. The agenda was adopted.6. Preparatory examination of brother

W. Geurts. The necessary documents were pre-sented and found to be in good or-der. Classis proceeded to the exam-ination. After the sermon proposalon James 1:19-27 was presented,Classis decided to continue with theexamination. Br. Geurts was thenexamined on Exegesis Old Testa-ment, Exegesis New Testament,Doctrine and Creeds.The examination was sustained andbr. Geurts was informed of this de-cision. He was given a certificatethat he has been declared eligiblefor call within the churches. The chairman requested the meet-ing to sing Hymn 24:1, 5 and Rev.Bosch led in prayer of thanksgiving.

7. After lunch the chairman called themeeting back to order. Roll callshowed that every one was present.

10. The chairman gave Rev. Sikkemathe opportunity to address Classis.Rev. Sikkema extended fraternalgreetings on behalf of the UnitedReformed Churches in Classis On-tario and expressed his appreciationfor being present to witness thework of Classis. The chairman re-sponded with appropriate words.

9. Reports:Church visitation reports to Burling-ton Ebenezer, Burlington Fellow-ship, Burlington-Waterdown, Flam-borough, Ottawa and Toronto wereread. These were all positive re-ports and they we received in grati-tude to the Lord for the faithful careby the office bearers in thesechurches.

10. Question Period according to art44 CO. The Churches at Burlington Ebenezerand Burlington Fellowship soughtadvice in matters of discipline. Ad-vice was given in closed session.

11. Proposals and instructionsa. A proposal by Burlington

Ebenezer re: Observers to UR-CNA Classes was presented. In itClassis was overtured to decide 1. To ask Classis Northern On-

tario, Classis Niagara andClassis Ontario West toadopt a schedule so that thetwo Classes nearest to thelocation of the URC Classiseach send an observer whoextend the fraternal greetingson behalf of all the Cana-dian Reformed churches inthe four Classes;

2. To inform the URC brothersof this arrangement if theother three Classes agreewith this proposal;

3. To adopt a rotation schedulefor the ministers in ClassisCentral Ontario to take turnsgoing to the URC Classis.

Classis endorsed the proposaland instructed the clerk to sub-mit the material to the conven-ing churches of the three otherClasses.

12. Correspondence receiveda. Reply from Classis Northern

Ontario of March 22, 2002which considers the joint re-sponsibility for the Fund forNeedy churches closed. ClassisCentral Ontario decides to ac-quiesce in the decision of Clas-sis Northern Ontario.

b. Appeal from a brother in an-other classical district appeal-ing a decision from one of thechurches in Classis Central On-tario. This appeal was dealt within closed session.

13. Appointments for next Classes:a. Convening church for the next

Classis: Burlington Fellowshipon September 13, 2002.

b. Suggested officers: W. denHollander, chairman; C. Bosch,vice-chairman; J. DeGelder,clerk

c. Delegates to Regional SynodEast to be convened on Septem-ber 4, 2002: Ministers: C. Boschand W. den Hollander. Alter-nates: J. DeGelder and M. Jagt.Elders: J.H. Harsevoort and H.VanDooren. Alternates: L. Jagtand R. Cowle.

14. Question period was used.Censure according to art 34 CO wasnot necessary.

15. The Acts were adopted and thePress Release approved.

16. The chairman requested the broth-ers to sing Psalm 108:1, 2 and ledin closing prayer.

For Classis Central Ontario, June 14, 2002G. Nederveen


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OUR LITTLE MAGAZINE

By Aunt Betty

PuzzlesDear Busy Beavers

I have not received any mail this time, so I will say helloespecially to everyone!! Have you all been very busylately? You must be almost getting ready to have schoolholidays soon. Projects at school are being finishedoff and bits and pieces of cleaning up are being done in yourclassroom and your desks. Don’t you just love it when sum-mer decides to come around? There are always so manythings to do at this time of the year. But you also have tothink about those kids who are now into their winter. In thesouthern hemisphere, it is cold and wintry, and in someplaces they will be skiing and skating, etc.

Sometimes it would be really nice to be able to ski andskate during the summer too, don’t you think?

Lots of love, Aunt Betty

OccupationsWhen God called the following people, they were busy working at something.

Match the person with what he or she did for a living.

1. Moses, Exodus 3:1 a. Farmer2. Gideon, Judges 6:11 b. Seller of purple cloth3. Elisha, 1 Kings 19:16-19 c. Shepherd4. Lydia, Acts 16:14 d. Judge5. Priscilla and Aquila e. Thresher

Acts 18:36. Zacchaeus, Luke 19 f. Scribe7. Luke, Colossians 4:14 g. Queen8. Baruch, Jeremiah 36:4 h. Tentmakers9. Deborah, Judges 4:4 i. Tax collector

10. Esther, Esther 2:17 j. Doctor

Surprises!1. This great army received a great surprise at

night. Judges 72. The seating arrangement at a table was a great

surprise to these men. Genesis 433. Even Jesus was surprised at the faith of this man.

Matthew 84. Five thousand men received the surprise of a

lifetime. Mark 65. A fig tree was the source of astonishment for

these men. Matthew 216. He was surprised to learn that Jesus was al-

ready dead. Mark 157. This priest was greatly surprised in the holy of

holies. Luke 18. They were surprised beyond measure to see

Peter at the door. Acts 129. These young parents were surprised by a visit

at midnight. Luke 210. They were surprised to see the Master convers-

ing with a sinful woman. John 4

JokesTeacher: “Were you copying his sums?”Katie: “No, just checking that he got mine right.”Teacher: “This note from your father looks likeyour handwriting.”Rennai: “Well, Dad borrowed my pen.”Teacher: “Simon, can you spell your name backwards?”Simon: “No, miss.”Barney: “Do you ever get straight As?”Anton: “No, but I sometimes get crooked Bs.”Teacher: “You missed school yesterday, didn’tyou?”Corey: “Not one bit!”

Aunt Bettyc/o Premier Printing Ltd.

One Beghin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R2J 3X5Email: [email protected]


Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Saviour.Psalm 25:5With thankfulness to our heavenly Father we are pleased to an-nounce the birth of our daughterKIERRA DEANNEBorn April 18, 2002A first child of Eric and Brenda Onderwater (nee DeLeeuw)45301 Spruce Drive, Chilliwack, BC V2R 1E9

Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from Him.Psalm 127:3With thankfulness to our heavenly Father for entrusting one of Hischildren into our care, we proudly announce the birth of our firstchild, a son JADEN BERENDRalph and Jane VisMay 24, 20021st grandchild for Berend (Bert) and Joan Vis18th grandchild for Ernie and Jane SchulenbergRR2, Canfield, ON N0A 1C0

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from theFather of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shad-ows. James 1:17With prayer and thanksgiving to our Father, we announce the birth ofour gift, our son and brotherJAMES MICHAELBorn on June 20, 2002Chris and Vicki KampenCaleb11 Steven Street, Orangeville, ON L9W 4G1

Give thanks to the LORD for he is good; his love endures forever.With thankfulness to the LORD, who has made all things well, we an-nounce the birth of our daughters, born May 16, 2002EMMA MARIE and LAURA ELISABETHsisters for Erika and LydiaLyndon and Diny Kok7 Sunhurst Road S.E., Calgary, AB T2X [email protected]

For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom beglory forever. Romans 11:36We have received from the gracious hand of the Lord a son, our firstchildOWEN MATTHEWBorn June 2, 2002Erik and Sharon de Boer (nee Meerstra)Huizumerstraat 3, 8933 DB Leeuwarden, Netherlands

June 3, 2002With thanks to the Lord who has kept her in His care and blessed uswith her love, we celebrated the 100th birthday of our mother, grand-mother and great-grandmother ANN OOSTENBRINKFor the Lord bestows His blessings, even life forevermore. Psalm 133:3bHer grateful children and their families: Janny and Ebel Pol, Bill and Maris Oostenbrink, Lucy and Dick Mulder,Margaret Hoppe and Berny OostenbrinkWe celebrated this joyous occasion on June 3, 2002 in Abbotsford,British Columbia. She resides at Ebenezer Home, 33433 MarshallRoad, Abbotsford, BC V2S 1K8

Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, and whose hope is in theLORD. Jeremiah 17:7With confidence that God will continue to guide our lives, we JOHANNA VAN IPEREN and JOHN HOMANtogether with our parents, Gary and Cora Van Iperen and Henry andAnnelies Homan, announce our engagement June 14, 2002. RR 2, 3353 Cosby Road, Beamsville, ON L0R 1B2

Sing to Him, sing praise to Him; tell of all His wonderful acts. Gloryin his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice.Psalm 105:2, 3With thankfulness to our Heavenly Father, weWILHELMINA VERHEY and ADRIAN VANDERLAANjoyfully announce our engagement on June 7, 200242 McIntosh Avenue, Hamilton, ON L9B 1J4

Proverbs 3:5-6With great joy and thankfulness to our LORD, weJOHN GANSEKOELE and JENNIFER MARY STRATINGtogether with our parents, Ralph and Alice Gansekoele and Herbertand Mappie Strating announce our forthcoming marriage.The ceremony will take place, D.V. on July 27, 2002 at 12:30 p.m. inthe Free Reformed Church of Armadale, Western Australia.Reverend W. Huizinga officiating.14 Selkirk Road, Armadale, WA, 6112, AustraliaFuture Address: Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada

Praise the LORD! His love endures forever!Thankful to Him for His guidance, weMARIA ANNA CORNELIA POPPE andJOHN DAVID LOUWERSEjoyfully announce our forthcoming marriage.The celebration will take place, D.V., on July 19, 2002 at 10:30 a.m.in the Redeemer Canadian Reformed Church, Winnipeg.Rev. J. Huigen officiating.Address: RR 4, Fergus, ON N1M 2W5

Births

Weddings

Engagements

Birthdays

CLARION ADVERTISEMENTS


And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all togetherin perfect unity.” Colossians 3:14 Together with our parents, Herman and Yke Timmerman of Elora, On-tario and Jim and Margaret Dykstra of Abbotsford, British Columbia, weAGNES JANE TIMMERMAN and DAVID ALAN DYKSTRAjoyfully announce our upcoming wedding with thanks to the Lord.The ceremony will be held on Friday, July 19, 2002 at 1:30 p.m. atthe Burlington Ebenezer Canadian Reformed Church.Rev. D.G. Agema officiating.Future address: 2203 Prescott Place, Burlington, Ontario L7L 6L3

“I know the plans I have for you” says the Lord. “Plans to prosperyou and not to harm you.” Jeremiah 29:11 Bert and Elsa Hopman of Beamsville, ON, give joyous thanks to theLORD for His blessings in uniting in marriage their daughter ERIKA LISANNE and NICHOLAS WAYNEthe son of Jerry and Carol Ann Kottelenberg of Marietta, GA. The ceremony took place on Saturday, May 18, 2002 in Lincoln Cana-dian Reformed Church, with Rev. J. VanVliet officiating. Temporary correspondence address: c/o 4554 Thirty Road, Beamsville, ON L0R 1B3

August 2, 1957 ~ August 2, 2002HARRY and MARY DE WITT (nee Endeman)We are pleased to announce Dad and Mom’s 45th Anniversary. Ourprayer is that God will continue to sustain them for many more years.Brampton, ON: Opoe EndemanCarman, MB: Don and Louise De Witt (nee VanLeeuwen)

RoseHarley and Kay-LeighJasonDale

Neerlandia, AB: Jeff and Jane Van LeeuwenDonCarolynMikeJessyScottTylerTonyaTerry

Fergus, ON: John and Hilly BeukemaHollyRayKaitlynJordon

Carman, MB: Henry and Betty BreukelmanRyanKevinJoshJason

Exodus 15:235 Kingknoll Drive, #1108 King Tower, Brampton, ON L6Y 5G5

1972 ~ July 17 ~ 2002 With thankfulness to our heavenly Father, who has kept them in Hiscare, we joyfully announce the 30th Anniversary of our parents LARRY and JENNY WIERENGA (nee Penninga) May the Lord continue to be with them in the years to come. Smithers, BC: Jason and Shannon Wierenga

Jessica, Owen Sheila and John Van Veldhuizen

Michael, Conrad, ShelbyEdmonton, AB: Kerri-Anne Wierenga Smithers, BC: Rachel Wierenga and Jason Werk

Travis Wierenga RR 2, Site 67, Comp 12, Smithers, BC V0J 2N0 Email: [email protected]

Obituaries

SCHOLTENS, Pieter JanOn Thursday, June 13, 2002, it pleased our gracious God whoknew of Dad’s loneliness since Mom’s death and of his longingto be with his Father in Heaven, to take unto Himself Pieter JanScholtens, in his 90th year. Predeceased by his dearly beloved wife of 61 years, Hilligje. Loved and loving father of Liesje (predeceased), Liz and AlbertDeJong (Hamilton, ON), Henk and Marike Scholtens (Flambor-ough, ON), Harry and Betty Scholtens (Burlington, ON), John andFanny Scholtens (Langley, BC), Ralph and Betty Scholtens(Burlington, ON), Jack and Cathy Scholtens (Burlington, ON), Jerryand Nellie Scholtens (Langley, BC), Anko and Theresa Scholtens(Smithville, ON), Trudy and Case DeJonge (Lynden), Lidy andPete DeWit (Thorsby, AB). Dear Opa of 56 grandchildren and 41great-grandchildren (predeceased by one great-granddaughter).Brother of sisters, Truus and Trix of the Netherlands. Also survivedby many other relatives both in Canada and the Netherlands. A Private Funeral Service and interment were held. The body waslaid to rest in Waterdown, beside that of his wife. In lieu of gifts,please consider a donation to Halton Prolife, 760 Brant Street,Burlington, Ontario L7R 4B7. “While we are saddened by Dad’s death, we grieve not as thosewho have no hope. We thank God for all he has given us inhim as father, grandfather and great-grandfather and are com-forted by the assurance and expectations of the resurrection ofthe dead.”

Anniversaries

Thank YouIt is with great thankfulness to our Heavenly Father that wecelebrated our 50th Wedding Anniversary. We express ourgreat appreciation to all for the many cards, telephone calls,and best wishes at our Open House. It was an enjoyable andunforgettable day.

Sincerely, Hank and Annie Vis


Teaching PositionsHomeleigh Christian School invites applications for aTEACHER/PRINCIPAL positionin a Primary School, commencing January 2003.Homeleigh Christian School is a two teacher Primary School at Mas-terton in New Zealand, operating from years 1 to 8. Its constitution up-holds the Reformed Faith and Doctrines. Applicants must be com-mitted to the Reformed Faith and to Christian Education.For more information contact:K. Verbeek on 0064063797595 orEmail: [email protected]

The Board of John Calvin School, Smithville expects to be in need of aPRIMARY TEACHERin the fall of this year.Any interested and qualified person is urged to call for further detailsand apply for this position. For information contact the principal, Mr. F.C. Ludwig, at (905) 957-2341 (school) or (905) 957-3111 (home) Applications may be addressed to: Education Committee c/o Mrs. J. Boverhof, Secretary John Calvin School 320 Station St., P.O. Box 280, Smithville, ON L0R 2A0

DISCOVER TASMANIA!Are you a lower primary school teacher, dedicated to Reformed Ed-ucation? Then you could experience the unique Tasmanian lifestyle– great climate, natural beauty and contemporary living. (http://www.view.com.au/discover.abac.htm)The Free Reformed School Association (Tas.) Inc of Launceston,invites expressions of interest and applications to fill the vacancy onour team of dedicated and highly motivated primary school staff toteach John Calvin School’sGRADE 1 AND 2Applications for short term employment, eg. 1 or 2 years, will also begiven due consideration. All inquiries will be answered promptly andwith confidentiality.Employment commences at the beginning of the new school year,January 2003.Applicants must be a member of the Free Reformed Church of Aus-tralia or a sister church.Conditions and salary are in accordance with the IndependentSchools (Teacher) Awards.For more information on this position, general information and ex-pressions of interest, please contact:The Principal, Mr. G. BrouwerPhone: (03) 63271800 (home), (03) 63443794 (school)E-mail: [email protected] should be directed to: The Secretary of the Staffing Committee, Mrs. A. Hidding Phone: (03) 63301162E-mail: [email protected] Address: PO Box 89, Launceston 7250, Tasmania, Australia

Teaching in Tasmania . . . !Are you interested in . . .• Tasmania, a progressive island state of Australia?• Temperate climate, recreation and natural beauty?Find out more on: http://www.view.com.au/discover/abac.htmAre you committed to Reformed education?If you are a qualified teacher, here is your opportunity . . .The Free Reformed School Association (Tas) Inc. of Launceston in-vites applications and expressions of interest for a qualifiedFULL-TIME TEACHER in learning areas such as Maths, Science, Information Technology,Manual Arts to join our small but dynamic team of High school staff.Employment would commence at the beginning of the new school year,January 2003.All enquiries will be responded to promptly and with confidentiality.Applicants must be a member of the Free Reformed Church ofAustralia or any of her sister churches and should be dedicated toReformed education.Conditions and salary are in accordance with the IndependentSchools (teacher) Awards.For more information on this position, general information and ex-pressions of interest, please contact:The Principal, Mr. G. BrouwerPhone: (03) 63271800 (home)(03) 443794 (school)E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] should be directed to:The Secretary, The Staffing Committee, Mrs. A. HiddingPhone: (03) 63301162E-mail: [email protected] address: PO Box 89, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia.

The Board of Dufferin Christian School, Carman, MB invites appli-cations for the following position: SPECIAL NEEDS / LEARNING ASSISTANT• two full-time positions available• work one on one with a special needs student• work in a team setting to develop and implement an Individualized

Education Plan (IEP)• duties to commence August 26, 2002Applicants must be members of a Canadian Reformed Church orone of its sister churches.DCS is a K to 12 school with 226 students and 16 full-time staff mem-bers. Additional information on the school, the community, and edu-cation in Manitoba can be found on our website:<home.merlin.mb.ca/~dufferin>For more information, please contact the principal: Rob vanSpronsen Phone: (204) 745-2278 – school or (204) 745-3996 – home E-mail: [email protected] can be sent to the Secretary of the Board: Ron deRuiter PO Box 1450, Carman, MB R0G 0J0fax: (204) 745-3441 E-mail: [email protected]


John MeerveldAssociate Broker

garden city realty inc., REALTOR®

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As the Lord continues to bless us at

Landmark Design Ltd.we find ourselves in need of individuals to fill the above-mentioned positions. • As Landscape Architect you must be prepared to deal

with both small and large residential, commercial andmunicipal levels.

• As Construction Foreman you must have enough experi-ence to install natural or precast walls and patios, operatea wide range of equipment, identify and install plants andbe able to interpret plans and instructions.

• As Maintenance Foreman you would be expected to op-erate the maintenance division including such things asquoting, organizing and scheduling work and also pos-sess a good knowledge of turf and plants.

In all of the above, the values, attitude and personalityshould reflect a person who is truly thankful for all Godhas given us. This must be evident in how you do yourwork and how you motivate and direct the individuals forwhom you are responsible.

We are offering a year round salary, which would depend on your qualifications.

Landmark Design Ltd. is in Thornbury, Ontario, 35 minutesfrom Owen Sound Canadian Reformed Church and elementary school.

Please contact Gary Nordeman

AT 519-599-2957 • FAX 519-599-3991OR EMAIL [email protected]

Landscape Architect and Construction

and Maintenance Foreman

J. RICHARD WERKMAN, D.Ch.Certified Chiropodist

Foot Care and Orthotics Specialist

St. Joseph’s Community Health Centre2757 King Street EastHamilton, ON L8G 5E4Telephone: (905) 573-4817Fax: (905) 522-1155, pause, 8706Email: [email protected]

- Prescription Orthotics/Biomechanical Assessments- Diabetics, Arthritic & All Ages Foot Care- Corns, Calluses and Wart treatments

The Canadian Reformed School Society of Burlington Inc. operatingJohn Calvin Christian School, invites applications for the position ofPRINCIPALfor the 2003-2004 school year.Applicants must be capable of providing guidance and direction toteaching staff in the day-to-day educational setting, and in facilitatingtheir ongoing professional development. The ability to relate to stu-dents and parents, as well as the School Board, would be highly valued.For more information about this position, please contact the Board Chairman, Rob Wildeboer at(905) 631-8434, or Fax at (905) 639-9704Applications may be addressed to: Corresponding Secretary, Mrs. Hilda Tiggelaar c/o John Calvin Christian School 607 Dynes Road, Burlington, ON L7N 2V4

The Board of Covenant Christian School, London, Ontario (Londonand Kerwood) invites applications for aFULL-TIME PRIMARY TEACHERDuties to commence, D.V., September 2002.For further information please contact either:Mr. Frank Oostdyk, Chairman of the Board, (519) 652-3826 (home)Mr. Clarence Blokhuis, Principal(519) 680-2770 (home) or (519) 681-1196 (school)Letters of application articulating philosophy of education, experience,qualifications and references should be mailed to:Mrs. Hilda Boeringa(Secretary of Education Committee)5776 Underpass Road, RR 5, Watford, ON N0M 2S0email: [email protected]

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Computer Graphic DesignerApplicants should have experience with

the following programs in a Mac environment:Quark Xpress, Illustrator, Photoshop,

Freehand, GoLive

Please submit resume, complete with cover letter, to:

Premier Printing Ltd.Ben Kuik, Prepress Manager

One Beghin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R2J 3X5Phone: (204) 663-9000Fax: (204) 663-8153

Email: [email protected]

PREMIER PRINTING LTD.

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Peter BuitenwerfSales Representative/Owner

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