astronomers developed the so-called big bang theory of...

ClarionTHE CANADIAN REFORMED MAGAZINE

Volume 57, No. 17 � August 15, 2008

Inside this issue

� Unity in Diversity � The Test of Jealousy

� Defending the Faith Today

. . . astronomers developed theso-called Big Bang theoryof cosmic origins. . .

94053t_57n17:Clarion 8/6/08 3:20 PM Page 425

The key thing was “that we are all directed to oneChrist, in whose truth being united together,we may grow up into one body and one spirit,and with the same mouth also proclaim whateverbelongs to the sum of faith.”

Unity in Diversity

426 • AUGUST 15, 2008

EditorialE. Kampen

An old questionCan we speak of unity of faith when there is not a

unity of confessional documents? It is a question thatjust does not seem to want to go away even thoughthe Canadian Reformed churches have establishedecclesiastical fellowship with churches usingconfessions different than the Three Forms of Unity.Mentioning this is not stirring up the pot but statinga reality.

This simmering issue came to mind recently whenreviewing the plurality of confessions that sprung upduring the Protestant Reformation of the sixteenthcentury. This plurality of confessions came about notsimply because the Protestant Reformation developedinto three main traditions, namely, Lutheran,Anglican, and Reformed, but also because therewas a multitude of confessions within each of thesethree traditions.

The main period of Protestant confessionalwritings extends from approximately the 1520s till themid 1560s. After this foundational phase, furtherconfessions were written but they often reflecteddevelopments that arose after the Reformed faith hadbegun to take root. One could say that Protestantconfessional writing came to an end with theWestminster Standards, produced in the late 1640s.These Standards moreover reflected developmentsthat happened over two generations. Already in themiddle of the foundational phase, as well as at theend of that phase, the question arose about unity inthis diversity of confessional documents. It isinstructive to see what was said.

Old answersFirst, John Calvin addressed the matter in the

Dedication which precedes the Catechism hecomposed for the Church of Geneva. His Dedicationwas directed to “the Ministers of Christ throughoutEast Friesland,” that is, in modern northern Germany,definitely some distance away from Geneva. In thefirst paragraph he wrote that “it were to be wished,not only that a perpetual consent in the doctrine ofpiety should appear among all, but also that oneCatechism were common to all the Churches.” Heimmediately continued,

But as, from many causes, it will scarcely everobtain otherwise than that each Church shall haveits own Catechism, we should not strive too keenlyto prevent this; provided, however, that the varietyin the mode of teaching is such, that we are alldirected to one Christ, in whose truth being unitedtogether, we may grow up into one body and onespirit, and with the same mouth also proclaimwhatever belongs to the sum of faith.1

For Calvin, one Catechism for all would be desirablebut not essential. The key point was that “we are alldirected to one Christ.” Calvin was concerned aboutthe substance, not the form.

A second example is what took place at the Synodof Emden held in 1571. This was a Synod of theReformed churches in The Netherlands but it was heldoutside The Netherlands because of persecution. Atthis Synod, the brothers present decided that theywould subscribe not only to the Belgic Confession butalso to the Gallican (French) Confession. In this way,

Rev. E. Kampen is minister ofthe Canadian Reformed Churchat Orangeville, [email protected]


AUGUST 15, 2008 • 427

they would show their allegiance and connectionwith the French churches.2

A third and very instructive example comes from apublication that appeared in Geneva in 1581. Itappeared in an English translation in 1586 with thetitle, “A Harmony of the Confessions of the Faith ofthe Christian and Reformed Churches which purelyprofess the holy doctrine of the Gospel, in all the chiefkingdoms, nations, and provinces of Europe &c.” Thetitle actually continues with these words, “There areadded in the end very short Notes which both theobscure things are made plain, and the things whichmay in shew seem to be contrary to each other, areplainly and very modestly reconciled; and if anypoints do as yet hang in doubt, they are sincerelypointed at. All which things, in the names of theChurches of France and Belgia, are submitted to thefree and discreet judgment of all other Churches. . . .”3

This publication came about in response tosuggestions that it would be helpful to formulate oneconfession to serve as a statement of unity. Upon thesuggestion of people from Geneva and Zurich,however, it was decided to make a compilation of thevarious confessions. In the preface there is interactionwith the accusation that the churches which revoltedfrom the Catholic Church “neither agree withourselves…but that there are as many religionsamong us, as there are Confessions of Faith.”4 Inresponse it is said that “this conference ofConfessions will pluck every vizard from their faces,whenas it shall plainly appear that all the opinions inthese Confessions of Faith were in other sundrywords so laid down, that yet the same truth alwaysabideth, and there is none at all, or very little,difference in the things themselves.” Also, it can beseen that “with common consent they renounce theabuses and errors of the Romish Church. . . They alsowho accuse us of sedition, shall perceive howreverently we think of the dignity of kings and theMagistrate’s authority.”5

What is striking in this Harmony is that it includesconfessions from all three branches growing out theReformation, namely, Lutheran, Anglican, andReformed. The difference with respect to the Lord’sSupper was not ignored. In one brief sentence,however, we see a succinct summation of similaritiesand differences as it is written, “In like sort we all

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In This Issue

Editorial – Unity in Diversity— E.Kampen ............................426Treasures, New and Old –TheTest of Jealousy

— K.A. Kok ..............................................................................429Defending the FaithToday (1)— F.G. Oosterhoff ....................................................................430

Ray of Sunshine — C. Gelms and P. Gelms ..............................434Farewell to Pastor Dirk Boersma — G. Bruintjes..................435Ontario Ministers’ Conference — E. Kampen ......................437Education Matters – How DoWe Dress?— O. Bouwman ........................................................................439

Press Releases: Board of Governors of theTheologicalCollege,Classis Alberta, Classis PacifcWest ....................441

Regular Mail$48.00*$60.00$89.00

Air Mail$ 79.00*$ 77.00$130.00


428 • AUGUST 15, 2008

believe the true communication of the true body andtrue blood of our Lord Jesus Christ; the controversystandeth in the manner of communicating.”6 To besure, Lutherans were not quite as agreeable as isevident when you study their Book of Concord,published in 1580, as well as a document called theSaxon Visitation Articles.7 The Reformed believers,however, saw the fundamental unity despite thedifferent confessional documents and even adifference on the matter of the Lord’s Supper.

This unity in substance also comes out when onecompares the basic structure especially of theconfessions that developed in the Anglican andReformed churches. Generally, they begin by dealingwith God and his Word, followed by man’s creationand corruption. This is followed in turn by a sectiondealing with God’s work of salvation in Christ andfinally a section on the fruit of Christ’s work in thisworld as he gathers his church (Theology;Anthropology; Christology; Ecclesiology).

A final example that can be mentioned is thevariety of international delegates that were invited tothe Synod of Dort. Among those present wererepresentatives from the Church of England. Thisexample is helpful in how it shows that even somefifty years after the conclusion of the foundationalperiod of Confessional writings, there was still asense of unity in the substance of the Reformed faitheven if it was not expressed in exactly the same form.

Not normative but still informativeIt is to be recognized, of course, that history is not

normative. Only Scripture is. At the same time, a lookin history is informative for it enables us to see howprevious generations looked at matters. We mightdiscover that we handle confessions in a way theynever would have done. When it comes to thediversity of confessions, we can see that there was acatholic vision that did not get stuck on form butlooked at substance. To be sure, they did not glossover the fact that there were differences.At the same time, as Calvin wrote, the key thingwas “that we are all directed to one Christ, inwhose truth being united together, we may grow upinto one body and one spirit, and with the samemouth also proclaim whatever belongs to thesum of faith.” It is Christ who is the unity inthe diversity.

1 For full reference, seehttp://www.reformed.org/documents/calvin/geneva_catachism/geneva_catachism.html2 N.H. Gootjes, The Belgic Confession: Its History andSources. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2007, p. 101.3 Peter Hall (ed) The Harmony of ProtestantConfessions. Edmonton, AB: Still Waters RevivalBooks. Reprint 1992 from the 1842 edition. Pp ix-xi. Forcopies of the many Protestant Confessions, a goodsource is Philip Schaff’s, Creeds of Christendom(3 Vols) available in reprint from Baker Books, GrandRapids. There are also many helpful websites thatgive access to the various confessions.4 Ibid., p. xxx5 Ibid., p. xxxii6 Ibid., p. xxxiii7 The Lutherans by this time in history severelycondemned the Reformed position on the Lord’ Supperand election.

All the opinions in these Confessions ofFaith were in other sundry wordsso laid down, that yet the same truthalways abideth. . . .

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AUGUST 15, 2008 • 429

“This, then, is the law of jealousy when a woman goes astray and defilesherself while married to her husband, or when feelings of jealousy come

over a man because he suspects his wife.”Numbers 5:29-30

Often, the Old Testament lawsdo not seem to make much sense tous. This confusion arises becausewe think of biblical law as merelegislation, like a posted speedlimit. Yet God’s law is not to bethought of as legislation, but aswisdom and instruction, as therevelation of who God is. Youcannot meditate on a speed limitday and night and hope to gaininsight. You are supposed tomeditate on God’s law, for it iswisdom from Him.

Understanding that God’s law iswisdom and instruction helps usinterpret what seems very odd.Perhaps one of the oddest laws isthe test of jealousy found inNumbers 5:11-31. This is a detailedritual of what is to be done if ahusband becomes jealous andsuspects his wife of adultery.

The woman suspected ofadultery is brought into thecourtyard of the tabernacle, at thecentre of the camp. There shebrings a grain offering as amemorial before Yahweh, whichmeans He will see and judge theworks of her hands. Then she hasto drink the water of bitterness(which is water from the laver),mixed with dirt from the floor of thetabernacle (which is holy ground)and mixed with the curses of thecovenant. If she were guilty, itwould then show; if not, she wouldbe her husband’s wife forever.

Why have this law? Israelalready had the seventhcommandment and Yahweh had

prescribed death for both men andwomen who committed adultery. Wealso do not have any examples ofthis law being carried out. Perhapssomething other than defendingmarriage is the issue, somethingrelated to the nature of who Israel isas the people of Yahweh.

While we cannot go into all thesymbolism here, we must take thisrite seriously. Consider the context:in Numbers 1-4 Israel is organizedas Yahweh’s camp. Since He is holy,they must be holy. In Numbers 5:1-10there are described three kinds ofuncleanness – symbolic and ritualforms of death – for which anIsraelite must be put outside thecamp, because the camp is to reflectthat Yahweh is the God of life.

Given this, what would Israelhave heard in this ritual? For onething, it involves an attribute ofYahweh: jealousy. Yahweh’s veryname is “Jealous” (Exod 34:14). Andmarriage is one of the key imagesfor the covenant between Yahwehand Israel, while adultery is theimage of what breaks thatrelationship. What’s more, Yahwehhas established that holiness in thecamp requires absolute faithfulness.

Thus we return to the centralquestion: Why this law? It seemsunlikely that it would have beeninvoked. So imagine you are anIsraelite at Sinai. You hear a lawabout a jealous husband and aboutdrinking water mixed with dirt.What would that sound like to you?It would sound like what happenedwhen Israel worshiped the golden

calf. Israel rejected Moses asmediator and made one of theirown. Instead of eating with God,they ate with a false god. As aresult, they were forced to drinkwater mixed with the ground-uptablets of the TenWords. The peopledrank the same basic elements theyhad been baptized with: water (atthe Red Sea, cf. 1 Cor 10:1) and thelaw (Exod 24). Those who wereguilty were made known and theLevities killed them. The test ofjealousy recalls Sinai and Yahweh’sjudgment and what it means to beGod’s people.

Paul tells us in Colossians 2 thatJesus blots out the curses of thecovenant, which is the language ofNumbers 5:23. Indeed, Jesus’ deathis the ultimate test of jealousy. InHim the defiled bride, which is whowe are by nature, is accepted. Byhis death and resurrection He tookand removed our uncleanness, ourdeath, and our sin.

As the Husband of the church,He commands his bride to befaithful. Our God is a jealous God,but that is not to say He is a tyrant.For in Christ, He has shown that Heis passionately involved with us. Healso gives us the Lord’s Supper, thenew covenant in his blood. In eatingthe bread and drinking the cup, weundergo the trial of jealousy in Him.The cup of blessing is rooted in hisdrinking of the cup of bitterness andwe take his work into ourselves. As1 Corinthians 10-11 show, thisjudges the unfaithful and it marksthe faithful as the bride of Christ.

Rev. K.A. Kok is minister of theAmerican Reformed Churchat Blue Bell, [email protected]

Treasures, New and OldK.A. Kok

MATTHEW 13:52

The Test of Jealousy


Under this heading I intend towrite a series of articles onapologetics – “the reasoneddefence of the faith.” It is a subjectthat demands our attention, for theattacks on the Christian religionare multiplying. Leading theseattacks is a group of militantatheists whose names areincreasingly becoming householdwords. I am referring to men likeRichard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett,Christopher Hitchens, Sam Harris,and others, who use every possiblemedium to spread their ideas –books, magazines, lecture halls,television, and Internet – andwhose influence has beenexploding in recent years.We meet them at every turn. So doour students.

Happily, the spate of books byatheists is more and more beingmatched by the volume ofChristian apologetic writings andit is my intention to introduce anumber of these. I will begin bydescribing a project, undertaken byan international committee ofReformed educators, to developcourses in apologetics for ourschools. The first-fruit of thisproject is a bibliography with shortdescriptions of relevant writings.That work I will introduce in thepresent article. In subsequent

installments I hope to review anumber of books that do not (yet)appear on the list, or that deservea more extensive introduction thanis possible in an annotatedbibliography.

Before turning to the main topic,however, I must give somebackground information on thecurrent atheistic attacks.

The new atheismHostility against the biblical

faith is as old as Christianity.There was a lapse during much ofthe Christian Middle Ages, butlarge-scale assaults resumed inthe modern period, beginning withthe eighteenth-centuryEnlightenment. They continueapace. There is a difference,however, between the battle as itwas fought in the Enlightenmentand in subsequent centuries. In theeighteenth century most of theattackers were deists. True, therewere atheists as well. Therealways have been, also during theMiddle Ages. Even the OldTestament knows of people whosaid in their hearts, “There is noGod” (Ps 14). But by denying thesupernatural, atheists were unableto answer the question about theorigin of the universe and all itcontains. Their influence was

therefore limited. That drawbackwas removed, in the opinion ofmany, during the nineteenthcentury as a result of the triumph ofevolutionism. Charles Darwinmade it possible, according tocontemporary scientist RichardDawkins, to be an intellectuallyfulfilled atheist. And indeed, afterDarwin the enemies of Christianitywould increasingly be atheists.They would also increasingly lookfor scientific arguments to provethe non-existence of God.

One would think that in ourpostmodern age the struggle wouldhave abated. After all, religiosityand belief in the supernatural arefashionable again and at the sametime the question about ultimatetruth has lost its urgency.Postmodern orthodoxy proclaimsthat there are no universal truths;that we are free to make up ourpersonal ones. So why theintolerance? Why should atheistswant to proceed in their struggleagainst Christianity? But in factthe struggle does continue and themilitancy of the attackers is asgreat as it has ever been. Moredisconcertingly, their message ispopular. The anti-religiouswritings of Richard Dawkins,evolutionary scientist at OxfordUniversity and generally seen as

F.G. Oosterhoff

Defending the Faith Today(Part 1)

Dr. F.G. Oosterhoff is ahistorian in Hamilton, [email protected]

430 • AUGUST 15, 2008


leader of the new atheism, arebest-sellers and so are thepublications of his fellow-militants. The attacks of these menare as blunt as any in history. Thisis already evident in the titles oftheir books. Some examples:Richard Dawkins, The GodDelusion (2006); Daniel Dennett,Breaking the Spell: Religion as aNatural Phenomenon (2007);Christopher Hitchens, God Is NotGreat: How Religion PoisonsEverything (2007); Sam Harris, TheEnd of Faith: Religion, Terror, andthe Future of Reason (2004); Victor J.Stenger, God: The FailedHypothesis: How Science Showsthat God Does not Exist (2007).

Why the fury?There are, as I see it, at least

three reasons why militant atheismhas found it necessary to intensifythe war in recent years. They are:(1) important developments inChristian philosophy, (2) recentscientific discoveries thatchallenge the old skepticism, and(3) the resurgence of militant Islam.

Firstly, the renaissance ofChristian philosophy. Christianphilosophers in North America andEngland have since the late 1960slaunched an increasinglysuccessful defence of Christianityby demonstrating the rationality ofbelief in God. Perhaps best-knownamong them are Alvin Plantinga,Nicholas Wolterstorff, WilliamAlston, William Lane Craig, andRichard Swinburne. In the Julyissue of Christianity Today, one ofthem, William Lane Craig, writesthat as a result of this renaissance,“The face of Anglo-Americanphilosophy has been transformed. . .Atheism, though perhaps still

the dominant viewpoint at theAmerican university, is aphilosophy in retreat.” This maysound a bit optimistic, but asCraig shows, non-believers alsospeak of the apparent“desecularization of academia thatevolved in philosophy departmentssince the 1960s.” Concerned aboutthis development, atheists haveclosed ranks against theirChristian opponents.

Secondly, some twentieth-century scientific discoveries. Thefollowing have been of specialsignificance:

(a) The end of determinism.During much of the late-modernperiod atheists have, as I alreadymentioned, increasingly looked forscientific arguments as weapons intheir war against Christianity.Until the early twentieth centurythey were fairly successful. Theprevailing scientific model(mechanism) implied a belief indeterminism (the idea that allevents in nature, as well as allhuman thoughts and actions, arecaused by an unbroken andunbreakable chain of prior events).This determinism implied, firstly,that divine intervention, includingmiracles, was impossible; andsecondly, that human beings (who

were no more than machines) couldnot claim freedom of the will. Infact, being machines, they had nowill. Whatever they did, thought, ordecided was determined by causesthat were absolutely outside theircontrol. In the early 1900s, however,physicists discovered that at leastat the sub-atomic level events takeplace that have no discernablecauses. Thinkers reasoned thatnon-determinism in the naturalworld may imply non-determinismin human thought and behaviour.They also realized that the newphysics had seriously underminedthe arguments against theexistence of the supernatural.

(b) The Big Bang. Twentieth-century astronomical discoveriesadded to the naturalists’ problems.To avoid the need for asupernatural creator, it had longbeen scientific orthodoxy toassume that the universe hadalways existed. In the course of thecentury, however, a number ofastronomers developed the so-called Big Bang theory of cosmicorigins and demonstrated that theuniverse is expanding. This meantthat the cosmos was not eternalafter all. There had been abeginning and it seemed logical toconclude that there had been acreator as well. (True, somescientists have come with non-theistic alternatives to thestandard Big Bang interpretation,but these tend to be speculative.)Largely because of the theisticimplication, a majority ofphysicists and astronomers beganby stridently opposing the newtheory. Finally, however, they hadto admit that the evidence for abeginning was overwhelming, andthe Big Bang model is now

AUGUST 15, 2008 • 431

The tables are turned:one scientific discoveryafter another appears tosupport a non-materialistic view ofthe universe


generally accepted amongscientists. (I realize that some ofour readers will be surprised tohear that many an atheist objectedto the Big Bang theory because itseemed to favour Christianity andthat many a Christian welcomed itfor the same reason; but that isnevertheless the case.)

(c) The fine-tuning of theuniverse. I have written about thisbefore1 and will not repeat myselfhere. I only want to remind thereader that the discovery of thefine-tuning, and the “anthropicprinciple” built on this discoveryand on related ones, constitute,even according to self-proclaimedagnostics and atheists, the moststriking evidence for asupernatural origin of the cosmos.

In short, the tables are beingturned: one scientific discoveryafter another appears to support anon-materialistic view of theuniverse’s origins and history. Thisis shocking to militant atheists,who had always been convincedof both the infallibility of scienceand its tendency to supportatheism. They have their work cutout for them.

Thirdly, atheists haveintensified their assault because ofthe resurgence of militant Islamand, especially, the horror of 9/11and of subsequent terrorist attacksin other western countries. Thisreligion-based terrorism has

provided a welcome argumentagainst religion. Many of themilitantly atheist writings, in fact,appeared shortly after the year2001. And if fear of religion-fuelledterrorism plays a role in inspiringtoday’s militant atheism, itprobably also helps explain whythe anti-Christian writings becomebest-sellers, for the authors tend topaint all religions with the samebrush. Christianity, according tothem, is no better than Islam orother religions like Hinduism,Buddhism, Shintoism, and so on.And it is true, Christians also havebeen guilty of bloodshed andviolence. Think of the crusades, theInquisition, the religious wars, theAfrican slave trade, westernimperialis. The conclusion, forHitchens and others, is that it is inthe very nature of religion topoison and kill; that religious faithis a malignant virus and must berooted out.

The new apologeticsAtheists are correct in accusing

historic Christianity of its failings.True, arguments to relativize someof the accusations can be found.Apologists have pointed out, forexample, that Christianity stillprovides a better basis for apeaceful society than atheism.Religion-based violence amongChristians may have killedthousands but is primarily a matterof the past, whereas the victims ofatheistic systems like Communismrun into countless millions and thekillings continue today. Also,episodes like the crusades may beregrettable, but they were at leastin part responses to Muslimaggression and therefore not justoffensive but also defensive in

intent. History further makes clearthat Christianity has beeninstrumental in guaranteeingpersonal freedoms, democracy, andthe rule of law, whereas noatheistic system has ever done so.The atheists’ trust in such a systemis therefore naïve at best.

But the fact remains thatChristianity is widely being judgedtoday by its failures, rather than byits accomplishments. Christianapologists have an important taskin rectifying, or at least qualifying,the current picture. Moreimportantly, they have a task to re-acquaint society with the centralmessage of Christianity, which isby now all but unknown.Apologetics today involvesproclaiming and explaining thegospel. At the same time it involvesreminding Christians of the needfor humility and a spirit of service.The time is gone when we couldimpose our moral views uponsociety. We must learn again – likethe early Christians – to illustratethe truth of Christianity not simplyby our talk, but also, andespecially, by our walk.

Yet intellectual argumentsremain necessary. And the goodnews is that interest in thereasoned defence of the faith is

432 • AUGUST 15, 2008

Christianity is widelyjudged today byits failures

The good news is thatinterest in the reasoneddefence of the faith isgrowing in tandem withthe interest in atheisticarguments


growing in tandem with theinterest in atheistic arguments. TheJuly issue of Christianity Today, towhich I already referred, quotes inan editorial the following remarkby apologist Lee Strobel: “It wasn’ttoo many years ago that scholarswere writing off apologeticsbecause we live in a postmodernworld where young people are notsupposed to be interested in thingslike the historical Jesus. Thebiggest shock is that among peoplewho communicated to me that theyhad found faith in Christ throughapologetics, the single biggestgroup was 16- to 24-year-olds.” Theeditorial further mentions overflowcrowds of students at apologeticsconferences in the United States,Canada, and Europe – often led byNorth-American and Englishapologists. Apparently today’syoung people want to hear bothsides of the issue; and apparentlythey are searching for universaltruth after all. One wonders ifpostmodernism is in decline inacademia. Some believe that it is.But perhaps it is precisely thepostmodern openness to thesupernatural that explains thewide current interest in argumentsfor both the non-existence and theexistence of God.

Teaching apologeticsIn any event, we live in exciting

times. The intellectual andscientific attacks on Christianitymay be more severe than they havebeen, but the scientific evidence insupport of Christianity is alsogreater than it was in former ages.As one author writes (Hugh Ross, inThe Creator and the Cosmos), inbiblical times God often gaveevidence of his existence inproportion to the level of resistanceto his revelation and He appears todo so again today. The need tomake our students and our entirecommunity aware of the truly

striking abundance of evidenceagainst an atheistic materialismwas behind the decision,mentioned at the beginning of thisarticle, to develop a course inapologetics for our Reformedschools and to prepare for thatwork by issuing an annotatedbibliography. The course inapologetics which the committeeenvisages should serve first of all,as we can read in the introductionto the bibliography, “as a means ofhelping students deal with theongoing attacks upon the faith inour post-Christian society. It shouldnot only, however, serve as adefensive strategy but also as anoffensive one, enabling students toanswer questions about andobjections to the faith by outsiders(1 Peter 3:15).”

The bibliography, which is verymuch a work in progress, containsat present some thirty-five titles ofbooks dealing with apologeticsproper and with related issuessuch as worldview analysis andtheory of knowledge. Each of thefour sections is preceded by anintroduction providing backgroundinformation on the issues inquestion. Although the work isincomplete, even in its provisionalphase it can serve to acquainteducators (and others) withdevelopments in the field ofapologetics. I hope that it will alsoencourage some of them tocontribute to the work. The

bibliography is (or should soon be)available on the website of theTeachers College:www.covenantteacherscollege.com

So much for the curriculumproject. In the next installment Ihope to review one of the recentworks on apologetics, namely TheReason for God: Belief in an Age ofSkepticism (2008), by TimothyKeller, the well-known founder andpastor of Redeemer PresbyterianChurch in Manhattan, New York.

1 See, for example, the articles Ipublished in Clarion, Nov. 23 andDecember 07 and May 9 and May23, 08.

AUGUST 15, 2008 • 433

God has often givenevidence in proportionto the level of resistanceto the gospel, and Heappears to do soagain today

ChurchNews

Declined the call to the FreeReformed Church of Albany(West), Australia:

Candidate Rolf den Hollander

Declined the call to the church ofHamilton (Providence),Ontario:


Declined the call to the church atOwen Sound,Ontario:


Declined the call to the church atElora,Ontario:

Candidate Cornelis Kleyn

Accepted the call to the churchatWinnipeg (Grace),Manitoba:


Accepted the call to the churchat Kerwood,Ontario:

Candidate Cornelis Kleyn


Do unto others as you would have them do to you.What would some of this include? Surely kindness,goodness, and gentleness. Yet this can be such achallenge for us at times. Yes, we all at some point getfrustrated and out of our frustration we sometimes door say mean things about others. What does ourheavenly Father want from us here on earth?

Let us look at what He taught us while He was hereon earth. Open your Bibles to Matthew 11:29, where weread: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for Iam gentle and humble in heart, and you will find restfor your souls.” Here Jesus teaches us that no matterwhat our task is on earth, we can carry it withgentleness, knowing that in his goodness, He willredeem us from this sinful life and veil of tears.

For what really is kindness and goodness? It is atender concern for others. Caring for others, whileactively displaying the fruit of love. Just as our Lord iskind, so we his servants are commanded to “notquarrel; instead he must be kind to everyone” (2 Tim2:24a). As with every grace the Spirit provides, we arecommanded to show goodness.

In Galatians 6:9, 10 Paul encourages us with thesewords, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for atthe proper time we will reap a harvest, if we do notgive up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us dogood to all people, especially to those who belong tothe family of believers.”

Through our goodness we can also display the fruitof gentleness. For to be gentle is to have a humbleheart; that is, patient even when others accuse us ofwrongs which we did not do. It is only by God’s graceand the working of the Holy Spirit that we are able todo any good. We must daily pray for his guidance inour lives, that in all we do we may show these fruits ofkindness, goodness, and gentleness.

Let us conclude with the beautiful words ofColossians 3:12-14: “Therefore, as God’s chosenpeople, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves withcompassion, kindness, humility, gentleness andpatience. Bear with each other and forgive whatevergrievances you may have against one another.

Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all thesevirtues put on love, which binds them all together inperfect unity.”

Let us live for God day by day, keeping his Wordvery near us at all times. Always be thankful and letthe peace of Christ rule in your hearts. May our lives bea reflection of Christ’s compassion! Praise be to Him!

The LORD His goodness has revealed;He is to us a sun and shield,For He bestows renown and favour.And when the upright seek His face,The LORD will not withhold His grace;His faithfulness endures forever.O LORD of hosts, how blest is heWho puts his hope and trust in Thee.

Psalm 84:6

Birthdays in September:8 MARSHA MOESKER will be 31

5820 Dixon Dam Road, Vernon, BC V1B 3J8

11 MARY VANDE BURGT will be 5232555 Willingdon Crescent, Abbottsford, BC V2T 1S1

14 JERRY BONTEKOE will be 44Anchor Home361 Thirty Road, RR 2, Beamsville, ON L0R 1B2

22 NICK PRINZEN will be 36653 Broad Street West, Dunnville, ON NIA IT8

29 PAUL DIELEMAN will be 39653 Broad Street West, Dunnville, ON N1A 1T8

Congratulations to you all who are celebrating abirthday in the month of September. May our heavenlyFather continue to bless you in this new year withmuch happiness and good health. Hope you all havean enjoyable day together with your family andfriends.

Till next month,Mrs. C. Gelms and Mrs. P. Gelms

548 Kemp Road East, RR 2, Beamsville, ON LOR 1B2Phone: 905-563-0380

Email: [email protected]

434 • AUGUST 15, 2008

Ray of SunshineRay of SunshineBy Mrs. Corinne Gelms and Mrs. Patricia Gelms

“I will tell of the kindnesses of the LORD, the deeds for which He is to be praised,according to all the LORD has done for us – yes, the many good things He has done for

the house of Israel, according to his compassion and many kindnesses..”

Isaiah 63:7


Although it has now beenseveral months since the farewellevening of Pastor Dirk Boersmaand his wife, the evening will notsoon be forgotten, especially sinceit has now found its way into thepages of Clarion. The memoriesstill seem so fresh looking back.The church was full of all thepeople that the pastor hadministered to during his five yeartenure as the shepherd of his flock.All the surrounding churches hadbeen invited and many fromoutside with whom the pastor hadconnected over the years. It wastruly and evening filled withreminiscing of years past and fullof fellowship and laughter.

Elder Roelof Bruintjes started offthe evening from the Word of God.He read a small passage fromPsalm 84 which praises God for hisdwelling place and the blessingsthereof. Bruintjes then went on toencourage the pastor in the newtask that lay ahead in the missionfield in South Africa. He alsotouched on the fact that Christ’scongregation in Denver shouldalso not lose sight of their calling,but rather see God’s sovereign planunfolding in this event as well. It isa blessing to know that eventhough God has led the pastordown a different road we may allrest assured that God will continueto be with his people whereverthey may be gathered on his earth.Finally Mr. Bruintjes led us in aword of prayer to open the evening

and we sang those beautiful wordsof Psalm 100.

Following the opening JohanBruintjes told a number of shortfunny stories that highlighted thegood times we experienced duringour pastor’s stay in Denver. One ofcourse cannot forget the palm pilotwhich he had to carry around so asto keep track of all hisappointments. Of course that wasuntil he was blessed with his wifeRinette. The pastor also had hisdistinct dress style with his purpleblazer, pink shirt, and tie. PastorBoersma was able to somehow behis own and at the same time bethere for anyone who had a need,always changing and adapting tothose needs.

After a few short stories Gerritand Jacco Bruintjes joined Johan fora small skit about the manyvacations that had to be requestedin order to find a suitable marriagepartner. This brought a fewchuckles from many in thecongregation including the pastor’swife. It is amazing how the Lordhas brought them together so thatas one they may worship and servethe Lord where ever he leads them.

Rev. Matthew Kingsbury of thePark Hill OPC church sang with theguitar a funny (aka Bob Dylan)song about the “The To Do List” ofPastor Boersma!

We were presented with aslideshow showing many of theactivities that occurred in the pastfive years. Excited sighs ofrecognition could be heardthroughout the church as picturesmarched by on the screen. kid’snights, Thanksgiving, Meals onWheels, adult baptism of Han,baptisms of Sarah Temu andKaitlin Sterk, barbecues in thepark, Pastor and Paki proclaimingthe gospel at senior homes, carwashes, yard sales at our churchparking lot, Easter celebrations,Westminster Fair, etc. This waspresented with beautiful music inthe background. We all enjoyedwatching it and were grateful forthe memories.

Michele and Chloe Moorlagwere very active throughout theevening. They began with a funnysong dedicated to Pastor andRinette. Chloe read a beautiful

AUGUST 15, 2008 • 435

Gerrit Bruintjes

Farewell toPastor Dirk Boersma


poem that she wrote about the“four feet” who will now be missed!Michele and Chloe also playedseveral beautiful songs on thepiano and the cello. Their vocaltalent was brought out inrenditions of “Someone” and“Somewhere Over the Rainbow”and ended with “The Bright Side ofDark” which was a meditation onGod’s wonderful creation. Theyalso demonstrated some actingskills in a funny skit called “PhoneCalls.” This skit focused on theconstantly ringing phone of thepastor’s. There was even a timewhen the pastor’s phone rangduring prayer on New Year’s Eve.

Two of the younger men fromthe congregation, Jacob Ashcraftand Josiah Horner, sang Psalm 121:“Where does my help come from?My help comes from the Lord, theMaker of heaven and earth.” Theyalso presented to the pastor andhis wife a scrapbook with memorypages from the wholecongregation. Each family had theopportunity to create several pagesof picture, quotes, and memorieswhich were eventually allcombined into one book.

Paki Temu, a relatively newmember of our church, sang abeautiful Polynesian song in theMaori language about a lovely

flower. He thanked Pastor Dirk forall his work in and outside thecongregation and also for hisfriendship. As a reminder ofColorado the pastor and his wifewere presented with an exquisitevase designed from the Aspensfound in the Rocky Mountains. Thecongregation and visitors joined infor a very nice and funny farewellsong for Pastor Dirk Maurits andRinette. The song was modifiedtext to “My Bonnie Lies over theOcean” but the words wentsomething like “He came from overthe ocean, the Rockies to see.” Thesong concluded with “We aremarching to Pretoria!” Pastor Dirkrequested a chance to thank thecongregation and all the friendswho had come to the evening. Heunderscored how he had gottenclose to many of the people overthe past five years and togetherwith them has grown. Hereminisced about the old churchbuilding, the closeness of thecongregation when he waspreaching, the kid’s nights, and theinternational flavour of the church.While he was sad that he would beleaving Denver, he was lookingforward to serving the Lord in themission fields in South Africa.

The evening ended in prayerand refreshments followed. Inclassic Denver style the sanctuarywas quickly converted into afellowship area with a wide varietyof food. The church building wasportrayed in a well designed cake.The evening was a great time ofreflecting on God’s blessings of thepast years and looking forward tothe future, knowing the God was,is, and always will be thesovereign Lord of creation.

436 • AUGUST 15, 2008


The ministers of the churches inOntario held their first everMinisterial Conference from June10-12, 2008. This Conference wasmodeled after conferences held bythe ministers in Western Canada.One big difference, however, wasthat this conference was more likea retreat as it was held at theCampfire facilities near Markdale.

Eighteen ministers were able toattend, with many othersindicating regret in not being ableto attend due to various reasons.The purpose of this conference was

for mutual edification andencouragement among theministers. Most church councilshad encouraged their minsters togo, promising to pay theconference costs.

The conference agenda wasfilled with a variety of items. OnWednesday morning, Rev. VanLuikspoke about his recently completedthesis which focused on the use ofEl Shaddai as one of God’s names.On the afternoon of that day, therewas first a discussion on threesermons dealing with the same

text with the aim of refreshing andsharpening sermon preparationskills. This was followed by anoverview of the developments inthe Reformed Churches (liberated)in The Netherlands. On Thursdaymorning, Dr. G. H. Visscher spokeabout his recently completed thesisdealing with Romans 4 and the so-called New Perspective on Paul.This was followed by a discussionon how to help those who see theneed to appeal to a broaderassembly so that their case will beclearly presented and a clearjudgment can be given. Theafternoon session had a time forseeking pastoral advice in variousdifficult situations encountered inthe ministry. It was a good signthat in all of the sessions, timerequired that the discussionbe ended.

The ministers were also givenan opportunity to show theirpractical side. Those present hadbeen divided into four advisorycommittees. Each committee wasinstructed at which time to meet inthe kitchen and prepare somethingfor plenary session, that is, mealtime and clean up afterward. Eachcommittee did an excellent job andnone had to be sent back to revisetheir report. A catered meal,provided by Sr. BrendaVanGrootheest, was enjoyed onWednesday evening.

AUGUST 15, 2008 • 437

E. Kampen

Ontario Ministers’Conference

Rev. E. Kampen is minister ofthe Canadian ReformedChurch at Orangeville, [email protected]


The final point on the agendawas an evaluation of theconference. It was obvious that allconsidered the retreat a treat and itwas unanimously agreed to holdanother conference next yeararound the same time. There was aspirit of collegiality and there wasvery little quiet time, which shouldnot be surprising when you get agroup of minsters together.Everyone could return homerefreshed for their task. The retreatindeed was a treat.

438 • AUGUST 15, 2008


Perhaps throughout any givenschool year, and especially at thebeginning of a school season,clothing issues can receive specialfocus. How ought we to dress? Howdistinctive should our dress be?Last year at our school, somestudents came up with the idea of aspecial photo shoot for theyearbook: students were going tobe encouraged to wear name brandclothing. That event provided agreat opportunity to interact withclothing patterns of students atschool. The following was writtenin response and is intended toencourage parents and students tokeep the discussions alive andmaintain a God-glorifying focusin life.

FadsIn many communities, it seems

that fads can be a substantialreality. When some people dosomething, others quickly follow.Every community can find a host ofareas where this is true. That’s notto say that fads are necessarilygood or bad; they just are.Sometimes they’re related tofashion and dress. For example, afew years back (at least in ourcommunity) many (young) womenneeded to wear little frilly bouncyscarves. A short while later theyhad become passé. The nextseason, a particular color was invogue. Six months later that colorwas definitely out of vogue. Peopledecided they wanted to start

wearing contact lenses instead ofglasses. Later, the “noticeableframe” look came in. Widths of andpatterns on ties change. You cancome up with your own otherexamples of things moving in andout of vogue. If nothing else, thesechanges keep life interesting.

However, there are severalaspects to this topic that are worthdiscussing, I believe. One aspect isthat we live in a materialisticculture, where great value isplaced on material things.Marketers know that and, in orderto keep sales hopping, theyencourage our society to changefashions as often and as quickly aspossible. With some products, theytarget particular ages andlifestyles. Advertising is meant toreach particular potentialcustomers and they are placedunder tremendous pressure topurchase particular products. Thatkeeps things moving off theshelves and consequently keepscompany coffers healthy.

PressureUnfortunately, we’re not able to

stay free of this pressure. Manychildren and parents have feltchallenged by the undetectable butnonetheless very real pressurefrom others with regards toclothing. While some parentsmight be able to cope with itslightly differently, theynonetheless also feel it. Manypeople feel pressured to purchase

and wear obvious name-brandclothing; others might feelpressured not to purchase andwear precisely the same clothing.

Of course, there are variousaspects to this issue. Do yourchildren wear clothing thatidentifies with a popular currentname brand, such as Aeropostale,American Eagle, Billabong, Roots,Element, Hollister, Hurley, Roxy,etc? Have you ever researched anyof these brand names? Most ofthem deliberately target youth;some of them have at leastquestionable affiliations or themesthat they promote. It doesn’t takelong to do some research andbump into some deliberately anti-Christian aspects of what some ofthem stand for or practice. It mightbe a very appropriate exercise todetermine precisely what acompany stands for beforechoosing to use your chest as acompany billboard. Would youreally want people to associate youwith a company that deliberatelypushes an anti-Christian agenda?

It’s not my intention to saywhich company we can or can’tsupport. However, we need to askourselves the question: “Why doour children dress the way theydo?” Are they wearing clothingbecause they wish to deliberatelyidentify themselves withsomething that is in realityunchristian? If that was the case,we’d really have quite a challengeon our plates. Another possibility is

AUGUST 15, 2008 • 439

How Do WeDress?

Education MattersOtto Bouwman

Mr. Otto Bouwman is principal ofCornerstone Christian Schoolin Lynden,[email protected]


440 • AUGUST 15, 2008

that they are wearing particularclothing because they wish tobelong, in a more general sense, tothe 2008 culture of the day inWhatcom County, or in the FraserValley, or in whatever communityyou live in. Do our children wearparticular clothing because of astrong sense of a “need-to-belong”?That sentiment can also be anunhealthy one.

Does our children’s clothingreflect their status as God’scovenant children? Or are weblindly letting them follow thedictates of Hollywood/California/New York so that in theirclothing they are completelyindistinguishable from the so manyother millions of American/Canadian youth? That might be agood reason to wear clothing thatgives deliberate evidence ofsupporting causes that are good topromote: a Christian schoolsweater or something that deliversa godly and positive message.

I raise these questions notbecause I have the answer to everyone of them, but because I hopethis fosters discussions at thedinner tables and coffee tables inour homes. Let’s keep talking aboutappropriateness of dress with ourchildren and also about who andwhat we are identifying ourselveswith as we put on that sweaterwith big letters on it.

Need to belongWe can also take a slightly

broader view of the issue: Howmany things do we do just becausewe feel a need to belong? Choiceand style of motor vehicles havelong been a good example ofanother object that people investin, hoping that it helps them be abit more accepted in a particulargroup. In some communities, forexample, a young man needs to bedriving a truck. Other times, itmight be a car with special wheelsor tires. Curiously, those pressureswere there just as strong ageneration or two ago already.

I have often been amazed at theamount of money some people havebeen willing to spend on theirvehicles, so that they could feel partof their group. Many people sincehave joined hockey teams, or soccerteams, or volleyball teams, orbasketball teams, because of astrong desire to belong to a group:“Everyone else is doing it, so I betterjoin in. I’ll stick out if I don’t like it.”

Ironically, there are also somein various communities who pridethemselves in trying to be differentfrom the rest of the group; in theireffort to be different, they,ironically, all end up lookingincredibly similar to each other.I’ve concluded that outrageous hairstyles and garish jewellery do littleto make anyone more beautiful orhandsome. One can find thatculture in many public schools; I’mvery thankful that this is not inevidence at the school I serve in.

As we work with the nextgeneration of God’s children, weneed to imbue in them a healthysense of self-confidence, combinedwith a good awareness of how Godwill have us all glorify Him in allareas of our lives. When childreninternalize those perspectives, thenthe need to belong to a particulargroup and identify with a (perhapsquestionable) style of dress canmore likely be held in check.Furthermore, an appreciation ofhealthy stewardship should alsohelp us develop the understandingthat we don’t need to slavishlyfollow latest trends and fashions. Sojust because my neighbour walksaround with an American Eaglesweater, doesn’t mean my perfectlydecent (but slightly outdated,perhaps) sweater needs to bemothballed. Let’s instead encourageeach other to be ourselves, bemodest, be financially responsible,and be godly in our clothing.

The Education Matters column issponsored by the CanadianReformed Teachers' AssociationEast. Anyone wishing to respond toan article written or willing towrite an article is kindly asked tosend materials to Clarion or toOtto [email protected]

Mistake: The author of EducationMatters in Issue 15 is listed as DerekStoffels when in fact Keith Sikkemawrote it (our apologies).

Do our children wearparticular clothingbecause of a strong senseof a “need-to-belong”?


AUGUST 15, 2008 • 441

Press Release for the Board ofGovernors of the TheologicalCollege of the CanadianReformed Churches for ameeting held on April 21, 2008

The Board of Governors met atthe College Facilities in Hamilton,Ontario on April 21, 2008. Present atthe meeting were Archie J. Bax,Lammert Jagt, Hank C. Kampen(Treasurer), Dr. Gijsbert Nederveen(Chairman), Gerard J. Nordeman,Rev. Andrew J. Pol, Rev. Robert A.Schouten (Secretary), Rev. WillemB. Slomp, Rev. Eric Kampen,Rev. John VanWoudenberg andKarl J. Veldkamp (Vice-Chairman).All board members are present.The meeting is opened by Dr.Nederveen with the reading ofScripture and prayer.

Minutes and agendaThe minutes of the Board

meeting held on January 24, 2008are reviewed, revised, andapproved and the agenda for themeeting is settled.

Finance and PropertyCommittee report

This committee reports thatpreparations have commenced forthe arrival of Dr. J.W. and Mrs. Marisrelating to housing, work permit,remuneration, insurance coverages,and the like. The financialarrangements with Rev. Kampen,Rev. P.G. Feenstra, and Prof. J.Geertsema relating to assistancecompleting Semester II inDogmatics on behalf of Dr. N.H.Gootjes are confirmed.

Correspondence of notea. Correspondence is received from

Dr. Maris in response toquestions from the Board forconfirmation and clarification. Itis confirmed that such responseis satisfactory for the purposes ofconfirming the appointment ofDr. Maris.

b. A note from the Principalconfirming the attendance of Dr.C. Van Dam and Dr. A.J. de Vissercompleting lectures in the Sudanon behalf of MERF.

c. Letter from the Principaladvising of the recommendationof the Senate that Dr. Gootjes berelieved of his teaching dutiesfor the balance of Semester II ofthe 2007-2008 academic year dueto the continuing healthconcerns relating to Dr. Gootjes.Rev. Feenstra, Rev. Kampen, andProf. J. Geertsema are appointedas temporary instructors to teachthe dogmatics program for thebalance of the academic year.[These decisions were taken andapproved effective March 25th]

d. A letter is received from one ofthe churches in which theyexpress objections to theappointment of Dr. Maris on thebasis that it contravenes thebylaws of the College in that Dr.Maris is not a member of one ofthe churches of the federation ofCanadian Reformed churches.Following intensive review,consideration, and discussionthe Board acknowledges thatthis was indeed an oversight,but that the current academicneeds of the College and currentcircumstances would requireand permit a one time exceptionto this requirement. A letter ofexplanation will be sent to theconsistory of the church that hadwritten to the Board, togetherwith all other consistories of thechurches in the CanadianReformed churches.

e. Regarding Dr. Gootjes, due hiscontinued ill health andinability to complete his task, itis decided that he will be placedon indefinite sick leave. Thissituation will be monitored inconsultation with Dr. Gootjesand his family, subject to themedical diagnostic advice hereceives. It is determined that

realistically Dr. Gootjes will notbe available at all for the 2008-2009 academic year and that areplacement is required forSemester II of the 2008-2009academic year.

Material agenda itemsa. The Board accepted the proposal

of the Senate to appoint Rev. J.P.Van Vliet, minister of theCanadian Reformed Church inSurrey, British Columbia, as atemporary instructor indogmatics for Semester II of the2008-2009 academic year.Rev. Van Vliet is a doctoralcandidate at the TheologicalUniversity of the ChristelijkGereformeerde Kerk atApeldoorn, The Netherlands.

b. The Board received thefavourable report of Dr. Van Damand Dr. de Visser on the lecturesthey had given at the KhartoumPastor’s Conference held inSudan in February of 2008.

c. A report is given by Prof. G.H.Visscher on the visits to thechurches in Manitoba whichwere completed in April of 2008.Prof. Visscher was able toprovide a number orpresentations as well as speakwith young men interested inthe ministry.

d. We are advised that Prof.Visscher is scheduled for histhesis defence in connectionwith his doctoral studies throughMcMaster University in May of2008, D.V. Dr. Nederveen, Boardchairman will attend this eventon behalf of the Board.

e. With respect to accreditation ofthe College with the Associationof Theological Schools, it isreported that the initialapplication and material hasbeen submitted and that theprocess has been fully initiated.The next step in the process is aone day visit by the Association

Press Releases


to the College to assesseligibility and the like.

The next meeting of the Board isscheduled for September 4, 2008, D.V.

Press release and closingThe completion of the Press

Release is delegated to the ViceChairman, in consultation with theExecutive, and the meeting wasclosed with prayer andthanksgiving by Rev. Kampen.

On behalf of the Board ofGovernors of the Theological

College of the CanadianReformed Churches ,

Karl J. Veldkamp, Vice Chairman

Press Release of ClassisAlberta of the CanadianReformed churches meetingon June 10, 2008 inNeerlandia, Alberta

On behalf of the conveningchurch at Neerlandia, the Rev. J.Louwerse welcomed the delegatesand called the meeting to order. Heread Ephesians 1:15 - 23 andrequested the singing of Psalm122:3 and led in prayer. Hewelcomed the delegates and Rev.R. Pontier, delegate of the UnitedReformed churches (URCNA). Healso welcomed Rev. M. Jagt,minister of the church at Taber whowas at classis for the first time.Several highlights werementioned: the calls of Rev. R.Aasman to the churches atSmithers and Abbotsford, which hedeclined; the call of Rev. W. B.Slomp to the church at OwenSound which he declined; thehealth of Professor Dr. Gootjes wasalso noted. He expressedthankfulness that the work in thecollege could continue.

The delegates from the churchat Neerlandia reported on thecredentials. Classis was declaredconstituted.

The executive was as follows:Rev. Louwerse, chairman; Rev. E. J.Tiggelaar, vice chairman; and Rev.

R. Bredenhof clerk in place of Rev.Slomp.

The agenda was adopted aftersome additions.

The Rev. Pontier was seated atclassis.

The Form of Subscription forministers of Classis Alberta wasread and signed by Rev. Jagt.

A report was received from theChurch for the Inspection of theClassis Archives. The Immanuelchurch reported that everythingwas found to be in good order. Thiswas received with thankfulness.

A report from the Committee forFinancial Aid to Needy Churcheswas received. It was thankfullynoted that no aid was needed byany of the churches in the classis.Having completed their task thecommittee was disbanded.

A report from the Committee forFinancial Aid to Needy Studentswas received. They reported thatsupport had been given to a studentof the Theological College.Questions concerning support of thefamily of a student were alsobrought into discussion.

Rev. Tiggelaar reported that hecould serve the churches as contactperson with the provincialgovernment. There was no newsfrom the government that neededthe attention of the churches orministers.

Question Period according toArticle 44 of the Church Order washeld. The ministry of the officebearers is being continued in all thechurches. The decisions of the majorassemblies are being honoured byall the churches. Two churchesrequested and received the adviceof Classis on matters of discipline.

Rev. Pontier was given theopportunity to address Classis onbehalf of the URCNA. He broughtgreetings and spoke of the desirefor the unity of the Spirit and thebond of peace between ourfederations. Rev. Aasmanresponded placing emphasis on theongoing desire of the CanadianReformed churches for an evengreater unity.

The next classis will be held, theLord willing, at St. Albert in October14, at 9:00 a.m. (alternate date: Dec.9) Suggested officers: Rev. Aasman,chairman; Rev. Louwerse, vice-chairman; Rev. Tiggelaar, clerk.

Delegates to Regional Synod atCarman were appointed. The twominister delegates are the Revs.Bredenhof and Jagt (alternates inorder: Kalkman and Poppe). The twoelder delegates are M. Baremanand S. Viersen (alternates in orderare K. Hoeksema and B. Tuininga).

Personal question period washeld and made use of.

Censure according to Article 34C.O. was not deemed necessary.

The Acts were adopted and thePress Release was approved.

Rev. Tiggelaar requested thebrothers to sing Hymn 64:1, 2 andled in prayer. Classis was closed.

For Classis Alberta, E.J.Tiggelaar, vice-chairman e.t.

Press Release of ClassisContracta for Classis PacificWest, June 24, 2008

On behalf of the conveningchurch, Maranatha CanadianReformed Church of Surrey, BC,Rev. J Van Vliet opened the meetingwith Scripture, invited delegates tosing from Psalm 108, and then leadin prayer.

The Credentials from thedelegates were examined by thedelegates from Maranatha andfound to be in order.

Classis is declared constitutedand the consensus is that thechairman would be Rev. Van Vlietand the clerk would be Br. F.Kleine-Deters.

The chairman lists the items tobe covered to approbate the callfrom Willoughby CanadianReformed Church to Rev. A.Souman of Smithville, ON.

The letter of call to Rev. Soumancomplete with the provisions for theminister and his family is reviewedby all delegates and is found to bein order.

442 • AUGUST 15, 2008


AUGUST 15, 2008 • 443

Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from Him.Psalm 127:3

With great thankfulness to our Heavenly Fatherwe joyfully announce the safe arrival of our second son

BENJAMIN JOHNBENJAMIN JOHNBorn May 8, 2008

Gregg and Laura Vandenbergexcited siblings Hannah and Joshua

8th grandchild for John and Thea Heyink5th grandchild for Henk and Ria Vandenberg

265 Bold Street, Hamilton, ON L8P [email protected]

Praise the LORD. How good it is to sing praises to our God,how pleasant and fitting to praise Him!

Psalm 147:1We give thanks to the Lord for blessing us with a daughter,

who we named

SKYE JANTIENASKYE JANTIENABorn June 13, 2008

to Thad and Anita VegterA little sister for Declan and Laila

28th grandchild for Reinder and Tineke Steenbergen10th grandchild for Bram and Joanne Vegter

5301-56 Street, Barrhead, AB T7N [email protected]

See what love the Father has given us, that we should be calledchildren of God. 1 John 3:1

With much joy and thanksgiving for another precious gift fromour Heavenly Father we are happy to announce the birth of a new

covenant child, our son and brother

MATTHEW JACOBMATTHEW JACOBLovingly welcomed on July 7, 2008

Menze and Sylvia FeenstraChristina, Nicholas, Timothy, Julia, Benjamin

RR 3, Arthur, Ontario N0G 1A0

Know that the LORD is God. It is He who made us, and we are his.Psalm 100:3

With thankfulness we announce the birth of our third daughter

CHANTELLE ELISABETHCHANTELLE ELISABETHJuly 14, 2008

Rich and Anne deJongKayla, Jasmin

52010 RR 265, Spruce Grove, Alberta T7X 3L7

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!With thankfulness to God we announce the birth of our son

CURTIS GERRYCURTIS GERRYBorn July 16, 2008

Gerry and Margaret DoekesA brother for Logan and Jasmine

15th grandchild for Louis(†) and Gerrie Doekes3rd grandchild for Andy and Jeannette Nijenhuis

55 Shirley Street, Orangeville, ON L9W 2T5

Advertisements:Advertisements:Announcements of Weddings, Anniversaries (withOpen House) should be submitted six weeks in advance.

Clarion Advertisements

BIRTHS

��

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The acceptance of the letter ofcall is reviewed by all delegatesand is found to be in order.

The release from the consistorywith the deacons of the SmithvilleCanadian Reformed Church isfound to be in order.

The release from the ClassisNiagara is found to be in order.

The delegates from theWilloughby CanRC indicate that

their congregation has been anintegral part of the decision to call.

A date of August 1 at 11:59 PMEDT has been set for theWilloughby congregation to takeover responsibility for Rev. Souman.

The chairman asks if there areany objections to any items coveredat this classis. There are none.

The chairman asks if there areany questions per Art. 44, C.O. The

delegates fromWilloughby extendtheir thanks to the Chairman for hisrole as counsellor.

Censure per Art. 34 of the C.O.was not necessary.

The clerk gives thanks in prayerand the chairman closes themeeting.

For Classis Pacific West,June 24, 2008

F. Kleine-Deters


444 • AUGUST 15, 2008

Mr. and Mrs. Bert Van Straten of Burlington, ON andMr. and Mrs. Jack Lodder of Fergus, ON, joyfully announce the

marriage of their children

AMY CHRISTINE VAN STRATENAMY CHRISTINE VAN STRATEN

andand

THOMAS BENJAMIN LODDERTHOMAS BENJAMIN LODDERCeremony will take place, the Lord willing, on Saturday, August 9,2008 at 11:30 a.m. in the Burlington Ebenezer Canadian Reformed

Church building, Burlington, Ontario.Reverend W. Geurts officiating.

Future address: 3 Churchill Crescent, Fergus, ON N1M 1A6

He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.Colossians 1:17

With joy and gratitude to the Lord, Ben and Nancy Meerstra arepleased to announce the forthcoming marriage of their daughter

LINDSEY ANNETTE MEERSTRALINDSEY ANNETTE MEERSTRAtoto

ARTHUR BRIENENARTHUR BRIENENson of John and Clara Brienen. The ceremony will take place,

the Lord willing, on August 30, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. in theCanadian Reformed Church of Vernon, 5600 MacDonald Road.

Rev. J. Moesker officiating.Future address: 2 - 6916 Manning Place, Vernon, BC V1B 2Y5

1973 ~ August 25 ~ 2008Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in His ways. You will eat

the fruit of your labour; blessing and prosperity will be yours.Psalm 128:1-2

With praise and thankfulness to our heavenly God and Father,we joyfully announce the 35th Wedding Anniversary of our

parents and grandparents

EDWARDEDWARD andand PADDY ROODZANTPADDY ROODZANT (nee Keep)(nee Keep)We thank Him for His constant care in their lives and pray that

He will continue to guide and bless them, enabling them to serveHim with their heart, soul and mind and with all their strength

for many years ahead.Smithville, ON: Jack and Michelle VanderVelde

Chelsea, Taylor, MeaganDunnville, ON: Allen and Kerry Komdeur

Cameron, Austin, Samantha, Zachary, KeralenOrangeville, ON: Chris and Vicki Kampen

Caleb, JamesBrampton, ON: Ray and Nicole Janssen

Rachel, Marissa, MichaelPetawawa, ON: Scott RoodzantHuntsville, ON: Sarah Roodzant and Greg ElliottBrampton, ON: Josh and Dina Roodzant

HaileyJenn Roodzant

84 Major Wm. Sharpe Drive, Brampton, ON L6X 3T7

1958 ~ September 6 ~ 2008Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Saviour and my

God. Psalm 42:11b

YULYUL andand COBY KRIKKECOBY KRIKKE (nee VanDelden)(nee VanDelden)We praise our God and Saviour for having been with our parents,grandparents and great-grandparents for 50 years of married lifeand we are thankful for God’s preservation and care for them. Wepray for His continued blessing over them in the years to come.

London, ON: Ubbo† and Marian MeinenJonathan Meinen and Andrea ThibaultJames and Kim Meinen, Mckenna, BarrettGreg Meinen and Jourdan Gardiner

Petawawa, ON: DanielLondon, ON: Matthew

BenjaminEverson, WA: Bob and Debby LodderSumas, WA: Alyssa and Eric Brown, Madelyn, JosephEverson, WA: Kyle and Katrina Lodder,Mica, HadleyLynden, WA: Rianne and Jon Kruyswijk, AllysonEverson, WA: Reece

JuliaWaterdown, ON: John and Tammy Krikke

Mike Krikke and Carissa BuitenhuisNadine Krikke

Milton, ON: Ray and Leona KrikkeJustinAmandaMelissa

Hamilton, ON: Paul and Shauna KrikkeSpencerConnerBrittany

Mark and Lisa KrikkeAidan

Mailing address: 275 Main Street East, Grimsby, ON L3M 5N8

40th Wedding Anniversary1968 ~ August 30 ~ 2008

Praise the LORD, O my soul. I will praise the LORD all my life; I will singpraise to my God as long as I live. Psalm 146:2

With thankfulness to our heavenly Father for blessing andkeeping them in His care, we are happy to announce the

40th Wedding Anniversary of our parents and grandparents

LUITSENLUITSEN andand ANNIE DEWITTANNIE DEWITT (nee Vanderstoep)(nee Vanderstoep)Carman, MB: Doane and Valerie deWitt (nee Leyenhorst)

Adrian, DeandraElora, ON: Peter and Sandra deWitt (nee VanLeeuwen)

Curtis, Mitchell, Kyleigh-Ann, Brett, Serena,Kiersten, Terrah

Carman, MB: Henrietta and Marten RiepemaShawn, Sarah, Jessica, Cassandra

Burlington, ON: Ronald deWittCarman, MB: Beverly and Neil Gansekoele

Autumn, Cheyenne, Carson, SavannahDamascus, ON: Mike and Cathy deWitt (nee Schuller)

Michaela, Julianne, Ashley, EmmaleeFergus, ON: Margaret deWitt

Address: 62 Ronald Street, Elora, ON NOB 1S0

��

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ANNIVERSARIES

WEDDINGS


AUGUST 15, 2008 • 445

1978 ~ August 4 ~ 2008But he who endures to the end will be saved. Matthew 24:13

With thankfulness to our Heavenly Father who has kept them inHis care and guided them through the years, we announce the

30th Wedding Anniversary of our parents

NICKNICK andand JANET VANDENOEVER (JANET VANDENOEVER (VanAndelVanAndel))With love,

Brian and Marian VandenOeverLevi, Lani

Ann-Marie VandenOeverBruce and Klarie VandenOever

Selena, NathanielBill and Deanna VandenOeverDuane VandenOever and Tiffany BlokkerLawrence VandenOever3864 Quarry Road, Beamsville, ON L0R 1B2

[email protected]

1958 ~ September 6 ~ 2008May the LORD bless you from Zion all the days of your life; mayyou see the prosperity of Jerusalem, and may you live to see

your children’s children. Psalm 128:5, 6With thankfulness and praise to God we announce the

50th Wedding Anniversary of our dear parents,grandparents and great-grandparents

JOHNJOHN andand JOANNE DJOANNE DeeBOERBOEROur prayer is that they may continue to be a blessing toall those around them and that the LORD may graciously

keep them in His care.With love,

James and Simone DeBoerJustin and Anne DeBoer, KeirstenScottDave DeBoer and Brittany BergmanRachelColin

Fred and Joyce BosscherDarryl and Emily Bosscher, LandonBrianMichaelGregThomasKevin

Maurice and Lorraine VanSpronsenAndrew VanSpronsen and Kaitlin BuitenwerfAlisha VanSpronsen and Tyler BlokkerDaniel (with the LORD, 2007)JonathanJordanLukeLorissa

Dave and Nancy ElgersmaRandy Elgersma and Emily TorenvlietBlakeLeahKara

Frank and Sandra DeBoerJoshCailynEvan

Jason and Debra BouwmanJosinaJamieJacksonJewel

There will be an Open House Coffee Social followingthe 2:30pm service at Covenant Canadian Reformed Church

in Grassie, ON on Sunday, September 7, 2008.Best wishes only please.

7426 Sixteen Road, RR 1, Caistor Centre, ON L0R 1E0

50th Wedding Anniversary1958 ~ August 15 ~ 2008

The LORD’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning;

great is Your faithfulness.Lamentations 3:22-23

With thankfulness we would like to announce the50th Wedding Anniversary of our dear parents,

grandparents, and great-grandparents

RIEMERRIEMER andand JENNY FABER (JENNY FABER (nee Buitenbos)nee Buitenbos)It is our prayer that God will continue to bless and keepthem. We thank Him for their example in being faithful

to His Word and Ways.Everson, WA: Harry and Janet Faber

Dwayne Faber and Rachelle VanMersbergenJan and Nadine Hensen, and AlenaJessica Faber and Stephen ChaseLeanne and Melinda

Sumas, WA: Rick and Debbie FaberRaymond and Ranelle FaberGreg, Ben, Laura, Kelsey and Kristi

Lynden, WA: Ron and Marcia FaberKara, Jeremy, Michael, Nicholas, and Jenna

Tim and Lydia FaberJoanna, Angela, Kristina, Austin, and Emily

510 Palmer Court, Lynden, WA 98264

Thank YouWewish to extend ourmany thanks to all who shared inmakingour 50th Wedding Anniversary such a joyous occasion. Themany cards, flowers and phone calls that we received and yourpresence at our open house are much appreciated. We thankthe Lord for His many blessings.

John and Trudy Gansekoele


25th Wedding Anniversary1983 ~ September 9 ~ 2008

Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Psalm 127:1

NORMANNORMAN andand DIANE VANDERHORSTDIANE VANDERHORST (nee Doesburg)(nee Doesburg)We thank the LORD for His guiding hand in your lives and pray that

He may continue to bless you in the years to come.With love from your children,Langley, BC: Amy

Jason VanderHorst and Ardis KuikKaylaMatthewDana

446 • AUGUST 15, 2008

On July 12, 2008 the Lord took unto Himself, at his time,into eternal glory, our dear grandson, nephew and cousin

ADAM JACOB VANDERBRUGGHENADAM JACOB VANDERBRUGGHENat the age of 27.

“For I know the plans I have for you” declares the LORD, “plans toprosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope

and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11His grandparents: Jack and Elly SchuttenAunts and Uncles: Bert and Sue Schutten

Joanne and Rob SteltmanFreda and Sam YaunacacosJohn SchuttenAntoinette St. Angeloand the cousins

ADAM JACOB VANDERBRUGGHENADAM JACOB VANDERBRUGGHENJune 9, 1981 – July 12, 2008

At the age of 27 years, Adam passed into glory. He withstoodthe test and his Father has awarded him the crown of life.

Adam enjoyed the gift of life in the face of his suffering, andwas a blessing to all who knew him. Adam was a loving

husband to Christa, his wife of four and a half years, a preciousson to Hank and Harmina Vanderbrugghen, a dear brother toSarah and Brad Visscher, Rachel Vanderbrugghen and David

Vanderbrugghen, and a wonderful uncle to Jaden and Malachi.The grieving family and friends are comforted by the words ofJeremiah 29, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the

LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give youhope and a future.”

74 Bonaparte Way, Hamilton, Ontario L9B 2C9www.mem.com

July 10, 1956 ~ July 15, 2008Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Saviour

and my God. Psalm 42:5bWith sadness we announce the sudden passing of our husband,

father, son, brother and uncle

HENRY STEWART KUNTZHENRY STEWART KUNTZat the age of 52 years.

We acknowledge that God’s timing is perfect and pray forstrength and comfort for his loving wife and children

Carol Kuntz (nee deHaan)Tracy, Victoria

Parents:Edmonton, AB: Jake and Cathy Kuntz

Rita and Bill GeusebroekAldergrove, BC: John and Elma KuntzChilliwack, BC: Cora and Fred DeHaasTiger Lily, AB: Carla and Richard VanderVeenEdmonton, AB: Jeff and Cynthia Kuntz

Roger and Cindy Kuntzand many nieces and nephews.

10530 – 153 Street, Edmonton, AB T5P [email protected]

But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the SovereignLORD my refuge. Psalm 73:28

The Lord, in His great wisdom, has taken home unto Himselfour dear brother, brother-in-law, and uncle

PETER VAN SPRONSENPETER VAN SPRONSENbeloved husband of Sadie Van Spronsen (nee Kempenaar),

after a lengthy and courageous battle with a debilitating disease.April 16, 1937 – June 22, 2008

Coaldale, AB: Alice and Hank TamsLethbridge, AB: Henry and Jennie Van SpronsenLangley, BC: Bill and Ieke Van SpronsenVernon, BC: Kees and Joanne Van SpronsenLangley, BC: Joe and Dieta Van SpronsenSurrey, BC: Hilda and Lloyd BredenhofAldergrove, BC: Ria and Kees VanVliet

And nieces and nephews and familiesVernon, BC

June 28, 1946 ~ May 17, 2008

ELLY DEVRIESELLY DEVRIES –– SCHIJFFSCHIJFF

Remember the word to Your servant, upon which You have causedme to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, for Your word has

given me life. Psalm 119:49, 50May God’s life-giving word and Spirit grant comfort to Bill and

his children and grandchildren.Fergus, ON: Mrs Janet DevriesSmithers, BC: Warn and Jenny DevriesCloverdale, BC: Lee and Jake BredenhofWellesly, ON: Vic DevriesBarrhead, AB: Dorothy and John BysterveldLangley, BC: Dinah and Conrad VanderhorstFergus, ON: Rob and Marian DevriesSmithville, ON: Monica and Nick VanLuik

OBITUARIES

ANNIVERSARIES


AUGUST 15, 2008 • 447

January 11, 1929 – July 17, 2008Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him. Psalm 43:5

After a short illness

GRIETJE VAN DIJKGRIETJE VAN DIJKbeloved wife of Jan van Dijk, was called home to be with her

Lord and Saviour.She will also be greatly missed by her siblings:

Edmonton, AB: Jake (Annetta) LeffersHouston, BC: Sophia LeffersCoaldale, AB: John (Jane) Leffers

Maggie (Henk) HofsinkMary (Dirk) KokAndy (Helen) Leffers

She was predeceased by her parents Hiske and Sjoerdtje Leffers,and by her brothers Klaas Leffers and his wife Jackie

and George Leffers

TheCanadian Reformed School

Society of Edmonton,operating Parkland Immanuel Christian School (PICS),

invites applications for the position ofPRINCIPALPRINCIPAL

effective September 2008 or 2009.The Canadian Reformed School Society of Edmonton is seeking aPrincipal to effectively lead and inspire staff and students to

teach and learn to the best of their abilities, under the auspicesof our new LIFE vision, and to the glory of the LORD.PICS provides covenantal education to almost 200

Kindergarten to Grade 12 students. It strives to do this via adedicated teaching staff of 14, four Teacher’s Aides, and a

supportive Reformed community.For further information please contact:

Ron Bos, President, PICS BoardPhone: (780) 336-6472 (cell); (780) 476-0558 (home)

E-mail: [email protected] Slomp, Chair, Personnel Committee - PICS BoardPhone: (780) 987-8098; e-mail: [email protected]

Applications should be directed in writing to the school:Personnel Committee

c/o Parkland Immanuel Christian School21304 35 Avenue, NW, Edmonton, AB T6M 2P6

Reach for your dreams in Alberta…where growth and opportunity abound in a land of mountains,

prairie and big sky.

The Covenant Canadian Reformed School of Neerlandia, AB,urgently invites applications for an

ELEMENTARY TEACHERELEMENTARY TEACHER and/or TEACHER’S AIDETEACHER’S AIDEfor an opening for the 2008-2009 school year. Neerlandia is asmall, friendly hamlet, only 20 minutes from Barrhead and 1

1/2 hours from Edmonton. We have to offer competitive wageswith less teaching days than most schools. For more

information, please contact the principal: Mr. H. VanDeldenPhone: 1-780-674-4774 (school); 1-780-674-3704 (home)

Applications should be sent toCovenant Canadian Reformed SchoolAttention: Mrs. Sonja VanLeeuwenBox 67, Neerlandia, AB T0G 1R0

The Anchor Canadian Reformed Associationfor the Handicapped

still seeks qualified applicant for the position of

HOME MANAGERHOME MANAGERBeacon Home in Dunnville, Ontario

Candidates with a human service diploma and experienceare preferred. Others with interest in the field and awillingness to upgrade are also encouraged to apply.

Duties include supporting individuals with activities ofdaily living, personal care, behaviour management,

conflict resolution, and participation in the community.The Manager is responsible to guide staff, maintain contact

with the parents and regularly communicate with theExecutive Director.

Managers typically work 70 hours per pay period asfront line staff and receive 10 hours for administration.

This job requires an energetic person.

Salary and benefits are based on our grid.

Applicants will be professing members of a CanadianReformed Church or “sister church.”

Correspondence by email is encouraged.All enquiries are kept confidential.

[email protected]: Bert Vangoolen

905-563-6524

TEACHING POSITIONS

FOR RENTA bright and spacious, 2 bedroom, basement apartment

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Please call John or Wilma at (905) 692-9096Email: [email protected]

FOR RENT3 BEDROOM COUNTRY HOME

Minutes away from church and schoolin Dunnville, Ontario area. Asking $900 a month.

Call: 905-774-3624Thank You

We would like to thank all who made our 55th WeddingAnniversary such a joyful occasion. Your cards, phone calls, andflowers were very much appreciated. We thank and praise ourGod and Father for His many blessings.

Jan and Alie Harke


448 • AUGUST 15, 2008

Readyfor the

Rapture?By Clarence Stam

Clarence Stam discusses what will takeplace at the end of days. He gives attention to the millennium,the return of Christ, the resurrection, the Rapture, and the lifeto come. He focuses especially on relevant Scripture passagesin the letters to the Thessalonians. This book can be used as adevotional or a study guide.

Soft Cover, 104 pages . . . . . Can./U.S. . . . . . $ 8.00

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TinkeringwithCreation?The Promise and Perils ofGenetic Engineering

Edited by Cornelis Van Dam

The possibilities of human ingenuity and scientific advances seem to belimitless in our day. Plants are genetically modified to produce food thatmeets predetermined criteria. Basic building blocks of life are beingmanipulated for healing diseases and improving health. However, thesame basic techniques are used to produce cloned animals and there ismuch talk about doing the same with humans. Such scientific activitiesraise many questions.

Soft Cover, 112 pages . . . . . Can./U.S. . . . . . $ 8.25

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In this book, Clarence Stamdiscusses the letter of James, thebrother of the Lord Jesus Christ. Hesees as the theme of the letter: growingtowards the maturity of faith. Ourfaith may not be static but should bedynamic, leading us to walk closer with God everyday. This is a book for Christians who want to grow towardsmaturity in faith. It can be used for combined Bible Study ordaily devotions.

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450 • AUGUST 15, 2008

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Maranatha Homes, located in south Burlington near manyamenities, is a place where Christian seniors can enjoy

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The Home’s newly renovated units and award-winningarchitectural design, combined with its reasonable rent rates

at $740 per month, make Maranatha an attractive andaffordable accommodation for seniors.

For further information contact:Rosanne van der Woerd

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905-681-0311Email: [email protected]

1 , 2 TIMOTHY & TITUS1, 2 Timothy, a study guide,D. Agema, preparing for Bible study;questions with space for answers; items for further discussions; Bible& confessional references, etc.; conclusions; outline; etc.; $10.48.

1 Timothy $5.71, 5 or more $4.76; 2 Timothy & Titus $10.48, 5 ormore $7.62; both byH. VanderKam; outlines, explanations, questionsfor discussions, biblical principles, concise, easy to use, 2nd printing.

Apostolic Church Order, outlines on 1, 2 Timothy & Titus, G. vanRongen; questions, commentary, details, further discussions $7.62.

Grace & its Fruits, John Calvin; selection of sermons on the pastoralepistles, insightful, relevant, commentary, encouraging, etc. $20.

Books suitable for group & personal Bible study and for gifts, etc.plus shipping & tax. Payable to: Jerry Tillema – 519 351 4290

Bethel Books, 274 McNaughton Ave. E., Chatham, ON N7L 2G8


AUGUST 15, 2008 • 451

We thank God for your support!The walls are up and the roof is on for the expansion at the shared building of theCanadian Reformed Church at Calgary andTyndale Christian School.There is still an opportunity for you to contribute.We need to raise another $100,000 to reach our fundraising goal and complete the project.

If you are willing to help us with this project,please make cheques payableto the address below.

Please indicate funds are for ‘buildingexpansion’ in the memo field of your cheque.

FOR MORE INFORMATION,CONTACT:

HENRYVANDENBERG,CHAIRPERSONBUILDING EXPANSION FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE(403) 668-9729 [email protected]

Canadian Reformed Churchat Calgary

Box 24, Site 8, RR 6Calgary,AB T2M 4L5

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