Calvinism andEvangelization

Farewell to theRev. C.VanderVeldeFamily

Volume 53, No. 24 • November 19, 2004

Finding Hope in HaitiFinding Hopein Haiti

586 • NOVEMBER 19, 2004

EditorialR.Aasman

Spread of the GospelFor some time Clarion has been publishing a column

written by Rev. Dick Moes on evangelism.The column isentitled reformedevangelism.com. It is just one example thatwithin the Canadian Reformed Churches and our sisterchurches, there is a love and appreciation for the spreading ofthe gospel. It is seen as our calling.We take our cue from ourLord Jesus Christ who said at his ascension in Matthew 28, allauthority in heaven and on earth has been given tome.Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,baptizing them into the name of the Father and of theSon and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obeyeverything I have commanded you. Moreover, missionwork, evangelization and personal witnessing is not somethingnew to the Reformed or Calvinistic churches. History showsthat John Calvin and the early Reformed churches wereheavily involved in mission work throughout Europe and as faraway as Brazil.

An alleged problemThe Reformed churches also hold firmly to the decrees of

election and reprobation. It is in our confession, as we read inthe Canons of Dort I. 6:

That God in time confers the gift of faith on some,and not on others, proceeds from His eternaldecree. For He knows all His works from eternity,and He accomplishes all things according to thecounsel of His will.According to this decree Hegraciously softens the hearts of the elect, no matterhow hard they may be, and inclines them to believe;those not elected, however, He leaves in their ownwickedness and hardness by a just judgment.Andhere especially is disclosed to us the profound,merciful, and at the same time just distinction

between men equally worthy of condemnation, orthat decree of election and reprobation which hasbeen revealed in God’s Word.

Before the world was made God elected some men tosalvation by grace alone, but others are reprobated andeternally condemned due to their own hardness of heart.These teachings are irrefutable if you hold to an infallible,inerrant and authoritative Word of God. Romans 9, Ephesians1 and 1 Peter 2 speak clearly about these decrees of electionand reprobation.

The question is whether the doctrine of God’spredestination conflicts with evangelization.There are those ofan Arminian or pseudo-Calvinistic position who object that theReformed, Calvinistic teaching about election negates allevangelism endeavour.To believe in a sovereign decree ofelection where God determines who will be his children, evenbefore the world was made and by grace alone, is to renderany need of evangelization null and void.The reasoning goessomething like this: how can you seriously, sincerely andgenerously proclaim the gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ toanyone when it is predetermined who will be saved? If it isknown by God who will be saved, then what have we to do asthe church of Jesus Christ? God will save the elect in spite ofus and without us. Moreover how can anyone evangelize on thebasis of the decree of election and reprobation? What are yougoing to do, go to people and say: here is the gospel, after youhear it, sit back and wait to see whether you are elect and thenyou can be saved? How ineffective is that? How can anyoneevangelize in that way? I think we will all agree: you cannotevangelize in that way. But is that what Calvinism does? Or isthis a pathetic caricature of how a Calvinist evangelizes?

God’s wayFrom Scripture we see that God elects people to

salvation even before the world was made, and He does that

Calvinism andEvangelization

The question is whether the doctrine of God’spredestination conflicts with evangelization.

Rev. R.Aasman is minister of theProvidence Canadian Reformed

Church in Edmonton,Alberta.raasman@canrc.org

NOVEMBER 19, 2004 • 587

by grace alone on the basis of Christ’s blood alone. But howHe works out that election in time and history is his way andhis program.

Think of Paul’s letter to the Romans. He writes in chapter 1that the gospel. . . is the power of God for the salvationof everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for theGentile. For in the gospel a righteousness from God isrevealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first tolast.We will all agree with that.Then Paul goes on to outlinethat we are all sinners who have no hope except in therighteousness of Jesus Christ which is imputed to us throughfaith. In Romans 9 he writes about election and reprobation,stating unequivocally,“Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” Butthen comes Romans 10 where Paul writes about the goodnews of Jesus Christ and the absolute necessity to believe JesusChrist in the heart and confess him with the mouth.There hewrites:

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord willbe saved.” How, then, can they call on the one they

Inside . . .Does the Calvinistic teaching on election and

reprobation render evangelization null and void? Somewould say it does. Some would say that this is the reasonthat Arminian churches flourish over Calvinist churches.See what the editorial in this issue has to say about this.See also our column called reformedevangelism.com whichtakes a very positive view toward evangelization.

There has been some movement of late of ministersleaving their congregation and starting a new charge. Oneof them is Rev. C.VanderVelde and his family. In this issuewe read of both his departure and inauguration.We alsoread in the press release of Classis Alberta that candidateReuben Bredenhof passed his peremptory examination.This paves the way for his ordination in the Church at St.Albert,Alberta.

We have a report from sister F.VanWoudenbergabout her experiences in Haiti. In this troubled part ofthe world there is still hope!

We have our regular columnsTreasures, New and Old,Children’s Catechism, Ray of Sunshine and Education Matters.We also have two letters to the editor.

RA

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IN THIS ISSUEEditorial – Calvinism and Evangelization — R.Aasman ........586Treasures New and Old – Immeasurable Love

—W.M.Wielenga ......................................................................589reformedevangelism.com — D. Moes ....................................590Children’s Catechism — J.Wiskerke van Dooren ..................591Farewell to the Rev. C. VanderVelde Family

— W. Pleiter ..............................................................................592Installation, Inaugural Sermon, and Welcome of

Rev.VanderVelde — C.VandenBurg ......................................594Ray of Sunshine — C. Gelms and E. Nordeman ....................596Letters to the Editor ................................................................597Finding Hope in Haiti — F.VanWoudenberg ..........................598Education Matters — K. Sikkema ............................................601Press Release of Classis Alberta ............................................602

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Air Mail$69.00*$57.50$103.00

588 • NOVEMBER 19, 2004

have not believed in? And how can they believe inthe one of whom they have not heard? And howcan they hear without someone preaching tothem? And how can they preach unless they aresent? As it is written,“How beautiful are the feet ofthose who bring good news!”

In other words, God elects his people before the world wasmade, but the manner in which He works out his election intime is in sending his Son to die for sinners and then sendingheralds of good tidings who call for the response of a believingheart and a credible confession of faith.

This is Calvinism.This is the Reformed faith (which simplymeans we go back to what the Bible says).We confess, forinstance, in Canons 2.5:

The promise of the gospel is that whoever believesin Christ crucified shall not perish but have eternallife.This promise ought to be announced andproclaimed universally and without discriminationto all peoples and to all men, to whom God in Hisgood pleasure sends the gospel, together with thecommand to repent and believe.

We see here how God’s election is worked out in evangelizationor the preaching of the gospel. From our point of view we haveno idea whom God has elected.We might meet a bum on thedowntown streets of our local city and even shudder in horrorat his lost condition.We might in an intemperate momentdeclare: this can never be a child of God! But for all we know,God has elected him.We don’t know.We have one task and thatis to bring the good news of salvation to this lost soul.All wecan do is sow. It is God who in his power and grace decideswhether our ministry will draw this person to Him or drive himdeeper into darkness. It is God who decides whether the gospelwill be a fragrance of life or death.We preach or share thegospel.And in that gospel proclamation, it is God who will workout his decree, either saving or not saving. But it should be veryclear to us as Calvinists or Reformed churches: Jesus Christ hasleft us with the great commission to preach the gospel to all,indiscriminately and well meant! And we have the comfort andassurance that as we proclaim the gospel, it does not depend onour abilities to save anyone – what a scary thought that is – butit is God in his sovereign power who will bring his elect to faithand salvation!

Real power!Unlike Arminianism which can easily become a gentle

prodding or plea to make one’s decision for Christ in response

to the declaration that Jesus Christ died for everyone andloves everyone, there is real power in Reformed evangelism.The emphasis is on the sovereignty of God.The good news toa broken-hearted sinner is that it is not man’s goodness orchoice which saves, but the sovereign grace of God.This iswhat Paul makes clear in Romans 7 when he contemplates thewretched sinfulness and inclination to sin in his own life:What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me fromthis body of death? Thanks be to God – through JesusChrist our Lord!

It is God in Jesus Christ and through the work of the HolySpirit who saves us through faith, from start to finish. Hechose us, He redeemed us and He renews us for holy livingbefore Him.To hear this gospel while trembling over sins is tostand in awe and comfort before God! Not only does hiselecting love save us, but it inspires us to go out with aheartfelt and well-meant gospel offer to let everyone knowabout Jesus Christ and his work of redemption.This willcontinue until all the elect are gathered in and our Lord JesusChrist returns on the clouds of heaven to take us to himselffor eternity. Soli Deo Gloria!

We might in an intemperate momentdeclare: this can never be a child of God!

The good news to a broken-heartedsinner is that it is not man’s goodness orchoice which saves, but the sovereigngrace of God.

NOVEMBER 19, 2004 • 589

The apostle Paul is making acomparison. It’s a comparison betweensufferings-now and glory-to-be. Paul’scomparison also brings an evaluation.He is putting this beside that and thengiving some sort of resulting value tothe one thing as compared to the other.Comparison and evaluation.

We could approach this bypresenting something of an analogy. Let’ssay on the one hand we have a plasticring. It’s one of those that you can’tactually choose, because it fallsrandomly out of the 25 cent machine atthe entrance to the grocery store. Let’ssay that on the other hand we have agold ring. It’s one that you would choosecarefully from the jewellery store. Putthem side-by-side. Comparing andevaluating is quite easy.

At least, it’s easy for the trained eye.It’s probably not so easy for a youngchild to compare and evaluate thisproperly.A child has to learn to evaluateby learning value.A child has to growwise in order to weigh this over againstthat. Once the art of valuing things islearned, it’s quite easy.The plastic ring,with all its 25 cent random thrills, is notworthy to be compared to the gold ringchosen with deliberate care at thejewellers. Once we know how tocompare and evaluate, we don’t even

glance at the plastic ring anymore. It’squickly out of the picture.The attention,the focus, the weight, the value is withthe gold ring.

When the apostle Paul is speakingabout suffering and glory, he reallymeans to evaluate like that.The one –sufferings – is not worthy to becompared to the other – glory. For usit’s easy to make the comparisonbetween the plastic ring and the goldring. For Paul it’s just as non-complex tomake the comparison betweensufferings-now and glory-to-be. It’s not aquestion for him. It’s quitestraightforward.The sufferings of noware not worthy to be compared to theglory to be. It’s not even close.

This means for the apostle that thesufferings of now quickly fall away fromhis focus.They lose his attention. Hisattention, his focus, is on the glory. Notthat the sufferings are not real. Not thatthe sufferings are not necessary (cf.8.17!). But there is a certain valuesystem in place, solid and immovable.The sufferings of now lose theirdominance in Paul’s life-picture. Putsufferings-now and glory-to-be besideeach other, and the attention, the focus,goes way over to the glory-to-be.

How can the apostle do this? Howcan he think and live that way? He has

learned to judge, to discern, by learningChrist and his way for us, who wentbefore us (cf. Heb 12.2). He has learned,come to know, Jesus Christ, Man ofsorrows, King of glory, our Wisdomincarnate. Paul knows Christ throughthe Spirit of wisdom and glory whodwells in him.We have the first fruits ofthe Spirit (8:23).

This makes Paul wise about lifetoday and tomorrow. He has learnedthe truth of Jesus Christ to live it out, tothink things through in a new way. Paulhas learned true life in Christ, who hasdealt with sin definitively. Paul is nowwell equipped to evaluate life in thisbroken world rightly: the sufferings ofnow are not the thing to get all workedup about.

When we follow Christ, sufferingsare necessary. But there is a limit to oursufferings. In the way that birth pangsare necessary and yet limited (8.22-23).Do we evaluate this life of sorrowsconsistently in light of the gospel ofJesus Christ? Do we know Christ suchthat we can operate in this life from thedominating perspective of glory? Theonly way is for us to hear and keephearing the gospel of Jesus Christ. MayWisdom incarnate, by the working ofthe Spirit, be formed in us as he was inPaul, as we approach our King of glory.

Rev.W.M.Wielenga isminister of the American

Reformed Church at Lynden,Washington, U.S.A.

bwielenga@canrc.org

Treasures, New and OldW.M.Wielenga

MATTHEW 13:52

Immeasurable Love I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the

glory that will be revealed in us.

Romans 8:18

590 • NOVEMBER 19, 2004

The goal of this lesson is to give abasic introduction to why the Scripturesare important, to give some historicalbackground to the Old and NewTestaments, and to give group memberssome practical ideas about how to readand study the Bible.

The Bible and youAsk people to reflect on their

experience of prayer since the lastsession. Have they made any changes intheir routine of prayer? Did they find thiseasy or difficult? Once some sharing hastaken place, have the group divide intosmall groups to discuss their ownexperience of reading the Bible. Havethem focus on how much they have read,how often they read the Bible, whetherthey find reading the Bible easy ordifficult and what questions they haveabout the Bible.

Why is the Bible special?Establish that the Bible is special. Do

this by focusing on the following facts: (1)the Bible is the world’s number one best-seller each year; (2) the Bible has beentranslated into more languages than anyother book in history; (3) millions ofChristians the world over come to theBible each week and each day in churchservices, in small groups and on theirown; the Bible’s teachings about God andhumanity lie at the root of our entirecivilization; and (4) Christians believethat, through the Bible, God has spokento them in a unique way and, through theBible, He still speaks to them today. Once

these points have been talked abouttogether, have the group look up anumber of Scripture passages to seewhat the Bible says about its ownuniqueness.

Reading the Old TestamentMany Christians have great difficulty

understanding and reading the OldTestament.That is why it is worth thetrouble to give a more detailedintroduction to this section of the Bible.Do this, for instance, by pointing out thatthe Old Testament is a library of bookswritten and collected over more than1,000 years and that gradually duringthese 1000 years many of the bookswere collected. Mention that the OldTestament tells the story of the creationof the world, God’s relationship withpeople and nations, the history of thepeople of Israel and God’s relationshipwith this nation. Be sure to show howthe Old Testament point to andprophecies of the coming of the LordJesus Christ. Do not forget to point outthat the different sorts of books in theOld Testament need to be read indifferent ways and that every Biblereader needs help to understand the OldTestament because of the differentcultures from which it comes.

As a means of sharing ignorancerather than knowledge, but also as ameans of giving perspective on biblicalhistory, have the groups do a simplehistory lesson. Draw a time line on avery large piece of paper stuck on thewall.Then, have each group mark on the

time line on their handout when theythink certain famous people from theBible lived, or when certain eventshappened. Focus on David,Abraham, Paul,Moses, Jesus, the exodus from Egypt andJeremiah.This exercise can also be usedas an introduction to telling the story ofthe Old Testament around the charactersand events of Abraham, Moses and theExodus, David and the Exile.

Reading the New TestamentPoint out that the New Testament is

a library, like the Old Testament.However, it was composed within onlysixty years of Jesus’ death andresurrection and has fewer books.Mention that the New Testament wasnot written by Jesus, but by his disciplesand those associated with them. Mentionthat the New Testament is the storyabout Jesus and the early church. Pointout that the letters were the first part ofthe New Testament to be written down.Since the apostles who founded churchescould not easily revisit them, they wroteto encourage, teach and correct them.Asthe generation of disciples who hadknown Jesus began to grow older, theirteachings about Jesus, which had beengiven by word of mouth, began to bewritten down in different church centresin different parts of the Roman Empireand became what we know as the fourGospels.Acts, telling the story of theearly church, was written by Luke.Revelation was the last part of the NewTestament to be written.

Rev. Dick Moes is minister ofthe Surrey Covenant

Reformed Church (URC) inCloverdale, British Columbia.

dickmoes@shaw.ca

D. Moes

Part 2: How Christians Grow – Reading the Bible

reformedevangelism.com

reformedevangelism.com

NOVEMBER 19, 2004 • 591

Before you go to sleep, you say your prayers.You pray formany things. But one thing you always mention is forgiveness.You ask God: Please forgive my sins, for Jesus’ sake. It is goodthat you do that.Asking for forgiveness belongs to prayer.Does that mean we only commit sins? Do we never doanything good? Thankfully, we do.

When you got that chocolate bar, you gave half of it to yourlittle sister.When your mother told you to clean up your room,you did that.You helped your father wash the car,when you wouldmuch rather have played outside.You were mad at your friend.But you made up.You see, there are good things in your life.

How is that possible? That is the work of the Holy Spirit.He helps you with that. Look back in Lord’s Day 20, and thenyou will see it.

We may be children of our heavenly Father.That is becauseof Jesus Christ.And it makes you happy. Now you want toshow God that you are happy.You want to do things that aregood.And you also begin to do things that make other peoplehappy.And that is what we call: good works.

But don’t get it wrong. Don’t forget that you need helpfrom the Holy Spirit.We mentioned that before.You can onlydo good works because the Holy Spirit works in you. Hemakes you willing to do good works.

It would also be wrong if you would become proud of yourgood works. If you would think God likes you better becauseyou are nice and obedient. If you would think that you deserveto be called a child of God. But be honest, you know how youare.When you do something that is good, you secretly hopeother people will notice it.

You see? It is true you do good things. But at the sametime you still do wrong.

But you should go on with doing good. Pray for that. OurFather in heaven likes it. He remembers it, too. Even on thenew earth!

Lord’s Day 24

Children’s CatechismJ.Wiskerke van Dooren

Mrs. J.Wiskerke van Doorenpublished a Children’s Catechismin Dutch.This has been translated

with her permission.

How to read the BibleNow it is time for some simple,

practical guidance in how to read theBible. Point out that when you read theBible, you should read it in a translationthat you can understand. In addition,don’t try to read through from Genesisto Revelation. Furthermore, take yourtime when you are reading. In addition,try to listen to what God is saying to youas you read. Be sure to begin yourreading with prayer.Those who do not

have much experience in reading theBible should be encouraged to begin witha book that is more accessible thanothers, for instance, one of the Gospels.

Other tips for reading the Bibleinclude using a Study Bible with notes,reading one book at a time, using yourimagination and thinking yourself into apassage, and meditating on a single verse.

At the close of the lesson, thank Godfor the Scriptures. Encourage eachparticipant to work out their way of

praying and building regular Bible readingin some form into their prayer time.

If you would like to view the outlinefor this lesson, go towww.reformedevangelism.com andfollow the links.We have added twoarticles to our Emmaus library: JohnMacArthur on “How to Study the Bible”and Thomas Watson on “A Godly Man isa Lover of the Word.” Next time, wehope to introduce “Belonging to the Church.”

592 • NOVEMBER 19, 2004

On August 1st, 2004, the traffic onYarrow Central was nearly at a standstill.Everyone was trying to escape thesearing heat, as it was a long, hot summerand beautiful B.C. was brown! On thiswarm Sunday afternoon, most vehicles,filled with youthful sun-worshippers,drove on through Yarrow to continuetheir pilgrimage to the cool waters ofCultus Lake. However, some fourhundred people went against the flow oftraffic.They had come to the air-conditioned comfort of the Yarrowchurch to worship the Son! Today wasthe farewell message of our pastor andteacher, Rev. C.J.VanderVelde.

Rev.VanderVelde’s parting messagewas based on the text of Hebrews10:23-25, where the Spirit directs us to“hold to the confession of our hope.” As congregation we were reminded thatwe must hold fast to the confessionwith confidence since it is a confessionin Christ. Being in Christ ensures thatthere is nothing uncertain about theChristian confession. Holding fast to theconfession is holding fast to Christ, and we can only do so becauseof God’s faithfulness to his children.Rev.VanderVelde emphasized ourresponsibility in holding onto ourconfession, since the text clearly speaksof congregational involvement.We areto consider how to spur one another tolove and good works, to encourage eachother to live out of our confession, andto do so out of thankfulness for Christ’sredeeming work. Finally, Rev.VanderVeldeurged the congregation to live out of

our confession with the correctperspective, a perspective that the Dayis drawing near.We are to look forwardto, and prepare for Christ’s return – weare to see it in the history ofredemption, to see it through churchhistory. Having our eyes fixed on Christspeaks of the warning of the judgmentof sin, but also the gracious comfort ofthe promise of salvation.

Later in the day, as the heat began tosubside, we enjoyed a festive evening inwhich the Yarrow congregation could saygoodbye and farewell to the VanderVeldefamily. Br. Jake VanLaar, our M.C., beganthe evening promptly at 7:43 p.m.Why 7:43, you ask? While some assumed it had something to do withRev.VanderVelde’s reputation forpromptness, the real answer remains amystery.The evening was opened withprayer and the reading of Psalm 119:89-112.After congregational singing,Br.VanLaar spoke some opening words,noting that it was some eleven yearsearlier that he was in the same role, butthat time welcoming Rev.VanderVelde.

The first presentation for the eveningwas from the Tuesday Morning BibleStudy group.They provided a verbalvirtual tour of the congregation, startingat the top of Mt. Cheam, with Rev.VanderVelde overlooking thecongregation. Sisters Minnie Huttema,Marcelle Togeretz and Karen Geldermaneach took a different route around theeastern end of the valley that coveredthe complete congregation, providing

interesting and humorous anecdotalcomments along the way.

Afterward, the young people of thecongregation gathered together in thefront of the church to say their personalgoodbye.After a few words on behalf ofthe Young People’s Society, the groupwaved and exclaimed “Farewell!”

The Yarrow choir sang three beautifulpieces of music under the capabledirection of Mrs. Nel Schouten.Thischoir first came together for the openingof our church building some four yearsago, so their performance on this eveningseemed very fitting.

Next was the memorablepresentation from the Women’s Society.In their special but not so subtle way, thewomen reminded Rev.VanderVelde of hisinexperience as a new minister (and asingle minister at that. . .) when he firstarrived in Yarrow.Those first baby visitswere particularly nerve-wreckingexperiences, especially when he wasexpected to hold the baby! Some itemswere presented to Rev.VanderVelde tohelp him learn from the past and to assisthim as he settles in his new congregation.He was given a pack of marbles (to makesure that his new manse is level), a net(to catch birds that enter into theauditorium), a menu planner (to avoideasting pasta all week when visitingfamilies), and saran wrap (to ensure thatthe apple pie wasn’t taste tested by theyoung boys that delivered it – which wasre-enacted by the same boys, who arenow teenagers) and a map of Rockway(to help find the nearest walking routes).

Farewell to the Rev. C. VanderVeldeFamily

Wayne Pleiter

NOVEMBER 19, 2004 • 593

Rev.VanLuik spoke on behalf ofClassis Pacific East, and reminded Rev.VanderVelde of former school days.When Rev.VanLuik was bus driver forthe school, he reminisced how Rev.VanderVelde was the studious young boywho always sat in the back of the busreading his book. Rev.VanLuik alsoexpressed his appreciation for the workRev.VanderVelde contributed at classis,and wished him the Lord’s blessing in Rockway.

A highlight of the evening was apictorial presentation that reviewed themany heart-warming moments over thepast eleven years within the congregationand Rev.VanderVelde’s ministry in Yarrow.Many special occasions were captured,including Rev.VanderVelde’s ordinationand installation, as well as his marriage toTheresa. Pictures of the numerous babiesthat were born and baptized weredisplayed, including several sets of twins,and the two VanderVelde children. Classpictures of the young people whoprofessed their faith were also shown,one for each year of ministry in Yarrow.One of the memorable events duringRev.VanderVelde’s ministry, which beganas “Operation TopHat,” was the churchbuilding project. It was great to see thework and progress of the church buildingas it gave reason to reflect upon the richblessing we have received with a suitablechurch building for worship. Perhaps themost moving moments of the eveningwere the pictures of the members of thecongregation who had been promoted toeternal glory. Not only have weexperienced the death of a few of ourolder members, our congregation hasalso lost a middle-aged man, a young manand several younger children.Throughoutthis presentation, it was good to reflectupon the Lord’s grace and faithfulness toour congregation and to the minister.

On behalf of the congregation, Sr.Susan Onderwater presented Rev. andMrs.VanderVelde with a photo album

featuring a page from each family. Duringthe coffee social it was rather fascinatingto compare this album with the one hereceived when he first arrived in Yarrow– it’s amazing how much we have allchanged in eleven years!

On behalf of the council, br. DickSchouten provided the minister with aspecial toolkit to equip him for his workin Rockway.This included a pack ofmarbles and a level (again, the housemust be level!), a pair of slippers (in casethe manse floor is as cold as his firstmanse), and bottle of cherry wine (tohelp calm himself after long meetings).Actually the wine was so that we couldcollectively fill our (imaginary) glassesand toast the minister for his faithfulministry in Yarrow.

Br.Wayne Pleiter also addressed theminister and his family on behalf ofcouncil. Initially, as he talked withfondness about the minister, he appearedto be rather choked up, and we were leftto wonder whether he was becomingemotional. However, once br.TonyTogeretz removed the flowers from thepulpit it became clear that br. Pleiterapparently suffered from the sameallergies that plagued Rev.VanderVeldeon the opening of the church building J.Council thanked Rev.VanderVelde andhis family for their contribution to thespiritual growth of the congregation, andit was noted how Rev.VanderVeldehimself personified this growth in hisown ministry.The brothers also thankedRev.VanderVelde for his good guidanceand leadership throughout his years inYarrow and noted that “he was the bestminister we ever had!” Sr.VanderVeldewas also thanked for her contribution to congregational life, particularly withher involvement in the Tuesday MorningBible Study, and her visits within the congregation.

Rev.VanderVelde was given theopportunity to address the congregation,

which he did by sharing an experience hehad in his ministry in Yarrow.Whenvisiting a young family, a little boyanswered the front door to see theminister standing there.Withouthesitation, the little boy called out to hismother saying “The Lord is here!’ Thishumorous experience highlighted to Rev.VanderVelde the seriousness of thecalling to represent the Lord before hispeople. It was with this seriousness thatRev.VanderVelde approached his work inYarrow, and he expressed his desire thatthe Lord would continue to bless thiswork in the years to come.

The farewell evening concludedwith congregational singing of the“evening song” (Hymn 63) and byprayer by Rev.VanderWel, our ministeremeritus.After this the congregationhad the opportunity to socialize andsay a personal farewell to Rev. and Mrs.VanderVelde.

“For everything there is a season,and time for every matter underheaven” say the Scriptures. Indeed, itwas a long hot summer, but slowly theseason changed into some cooler fallweather.The realization that theVanderVelde family has moved onslowly dawns on our congregation. Itwas a wonderful season, a time whichwe will all cherish, and an experiencewhich we thank God for.Yet a newseason begins for our congregation,another time in which we may lookwith confidence to our heavenly Fatherfor his guidance and blessing.

ChurChurch Newsch NewsCalled to Vineyard CanadianReformed Church of Lincoln,Ontario:Candidate John Smith

Please forward all items forbulletin announcements to:mail@lincolnvineyard.org

594 • NOVEMBER 19, 2004

It was a beautiful sunny day in Jordanon the 12th of September, but no onefrom Rockway was outside enjoying thesunny warm weather, instead we wereinside rejoicing in the arrival andinstallation of our new minister, Rev.C.VanderVelde (and family).

In his installation sermon, ProfessorJ. Geertsema taught us that Christ is tobe the content of all preaching andteaching. His text was 1 Corinthians 2:2.His theme: Paul’s apostolic decision topreach only Christ and Him crucified.He showed us how the Greeks of thattime wanted a god in their image, therewas a lust after success and power. Paulputs forth Christ over against this lustfor power.We must be humble asChrist is humble.We all are sinnerswho must look to Christ for salvation.Paul tells the church of Corinth topreach Christ and Him crucified; shame,not fame, not human power, but utterhuman weakness. Paul preaches a Christwho is humble but mighty.We must seeourselves in light of Christ, a mightyLord who sent his Son for us.This isthe Christ who must be the focus of allpreaching.This is the gospel Rev.VanderVelde must bring to Rockwayevery Lord’s Day.After the sermon Rev.VanderVelde signed the subscriptionform in front of the congregation.Andthen various delegates spoke on behalf

of their congregations, somecongratulatory words and some adviceto the congregation.Also several lettersfrom other congregations were read.This part of the morning was closedwith Hymn 64.Then we were all invitedto a coffee social to fellowship with oneanother, and to congratulate andwelcome the new minister, and his wife.

Rev.VanderVelde had his inauguralsermon in the afternoon. He chose astext 1 Peter 2:2, 3.“Crave pure spiritualmilk.” We were told in the morning’sservice what the minister must preach.In the afternoon we were taught whatwe as congregation must do with this

preaching.We must crave this purepreaching.This life of service is not easygiven the many distractions in life.Yetwe must immerse ourselves in thatWord. He gave us two points: the basisand the purpose of this command.Theconclusion was, the more we crave thatpure milk, the more we will grow and beable to put off that old nature, and thenwe shall gain the inheritance that willnever fade.

On September 25th, anotherbeautiful day in Jordan, found us all onceagain in the Heritage gym.This time thehall was festively decorated, and therewere tables and chairs arranged. One

Installation, InauguralSermon, and Welcome ofRev. VanderVelde

Chris VandenBurg

Rev.VanderVelde

NOVEMBER 19, 2004 • 595

table in particular was decked out withcushioned chairs and an oak table.Thiswas special for the guests of honour.Youcan imagine their surprise when laterthey were told that they were allowed totake this particular set of furniture homewith them as a welcome gift from theirnew congregation! One member notedthe lack of promptness of some latearrivals at the gym. He gently pointed outto Rev.VanderVelde that if he wanted usto once again be a prompt congregation,he should take lessons from Rev.Wieske.(No-one dared be late with our formerminister). Many of the different studygroups endeavoured to acquaint the newminister and his wife with all the quirks,personalities, and characters found inRockway.We all had an enjoyableafternoon and supper in fellowshiptogether. May God continue to guide andbless us together as congregation andminister to his glory.

Signing the Form

Kids singing

596 • NOVEMBER 19, 2004

Ray of SunshineRay of SunshineBy Mrs. Corinne Gelms and Mrs. Erna Nordeman

“Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place? Hewho has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idolor swear by what is false. He will receive blessing from the LORD andvindication from God his Saviour.”

As we continue with our series on the Beatitudes, we willpay particular attention to those who are pure in heart.Whoare these people? Why do you think that the pure in heart willbe able to see God? As we learn more about this Beatitude, letus keep in mind its context.

The first three Beatitudes emphasize the importance of ourneeds.We must be poor in spirit, mourning because of oursinfulness, and being meek through humility. Having realized ourneed and having hunger and thirst, God then comes with aprovision for our needs. He will fill and satisfy us. From there onwe look at the result of being filled.We become merciful, purein heart, and peacemakers.

So then, what does it mean to be pure in heart? This issomething that belongs to those who are mourning about theimpurity of their hearts. For the only way to have a pure heart isto realize that you by nature have such an impure heart andyour mourning will lead to cleansing and purity.

We begin of course with the “heart.” The heart is the centreof one’s being and personality. It is the fount out of whicheverything else comes. It includes the mind; it includes the will; itincludes the heart. Here we may also note the verycharacteristic of the gospel of Jesus Christ, which is the heart.All its emphasis is on the heart throughout the Old and NewTestaments.This teaching was surely something that wentagainst the teachings of the Pharisees. For they were alwaysmore concerned about their outward conduct and actions.

From the heart also comes a lot of misery and evil.All ourtroubles arise out of this human heart.This is also foretold byJeremiah in chapter 17:9 “the heart is deceitful above all thingsand beyond cure.Who can understand it?”

So then,“having a pure heart” is having a heart that is nolonger divided.As David says in Psalm 86:11,“Teach me yourway, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undividedheart, that I may fear your name.” Let it be one, let it be sincere

and entirely free from any hypocrisy. Purity also refers to beingcleansed, with no dirt or evil. John speaks about those who willenter the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21:27:“Nothing impurewill ever enter it, nor will any one who does what is shamefulor deceitful, but only those whose names are written in theLamb’s book of life.”

To be pure in heart, in other words, means to keep the firstand greatest commandment, which is “you shall love the Lordyour God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with allyour mind.” Further it is a striving to be like the Lord JesusChrist Himself, who did not sin, neither was guile found in hismouth – perfect, spotless and pure.We must in every respectlive to the glory of God.This should be the supreme desire ofour life.

But what is necessary before we see God? Holiness, a pureheart with no mixed conditions.We can only see Him throughGod’s grace.We can now already experience and see God’sgoodness and grace to us.When we humbly and sincerelyworship and honour Him with all our heart, soul and mind, thenwe also will see the rich blessings from Him alone.

Another way that we see Him is through his graciousdealings with us. But that is of course nothing compared withwhat is yet to be. For then we shall see face to face.As John saysin 1 John 3:2,3:“Dear friends, now we are children of God, andwhat we will be has not yet been made known. But we knowthat when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see himas he is. Everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, justas he is pure.”

In order for us to be pure in heart we must realize thesinfulness of our heart as it is by nature.As we do so we canjoin David in the prayer “Create in me a pure heart, O God, andrenew a steadfast spirit within me” (Ps 51:10).

Yes indeed, it is God alone, through the working of the HolySpirit, who can clean and purify our heart, and He has promised

NOVEMBER 19, 2004 • 597

to do so.We must let the Holy Spirit find a dwelling placewithin our hearts.We must all long and look forward to thatGreat Day when Christ will return and we will be like Him.Attimes we can get so caught up with meaningless matters ofthis earth.Yet we all need to be reminded and encouraged tobe busy with the matters of our heart. How do we standbefore the Lord? Let us all keep our hearts dedicated to theLord, working in his service and to his glory.All praise to Himalone who works so mightily with his Holy Spirit!

O God, hide Thou Thy face from all my sins,Blot out all my iniquities that grieve Thee.Create in me a clean heart; do not leave me.Renew my spirit, make it strong again.O from Thy presence cast me not away;Let nought me from Thy Holy Spirit sever.Let joy of Thy salvation with me stay,Uphold me with a willing spirit ever. Psalm 51:4

Birthdays in December:10 JAMES KAMMINGA will be 20

Box 1125, Carman, MB R0G 0J0

16 JULIE KAMMINGA will turn 16Box 1125, Carman, MB R0G 0J0

Congratulations to you James and Julie with your birthdays.May our heavenly Father continue to be with you in this newyear. May He also grant you much health and happiness. Havean enjoyable day!

Till next month,

Mrs. C. Gelms and Mrs. E. Nordeman548 Kemp Road East

RR 2, Beamsville, ON LOR 1B2Phone 905-563-0380

Dear editor,In the May 7, 2004 issue of Clarion, Rev. J.Visscher wrote

an editorial in which he supported the use of the organ tolead the congregational singing.The problem he identified is ashortage of organists in our churches.What can be done toreverse the trend?

It may interest others to know that in our relatively smallcongregation in Houston we currently have three youngorganists who lead us in worship, besides our two elderlyorganists who retired from the bench.

How is it that we have three organists in our smallcongregation? In the first place, just as Rev.Visscher suggested,these young people have received a great deal ofencouragement from their parents to develop their musicalabilities and to be willing to use those gifts in the service ofthe LORD. But beyond this I am also grateful to severalmembers in our congregation who have also played an activerole in developing their talents. On three occasions in the year– at Christmas, Easter and with the graduation of our highschool students – we celebrate the gifts which the LORD hasgiven to us.We call it an evening of “Praise and Fellowship.”Besides listening to a mediation and singing, an important partof the evening is that we are also given the treat of listening tothe “up and coming musicians.” The organizers of theseevenings invite all the children who are currently in musiclessons to play a piece they have learned on the organ or

piano. Since this happens threetimes per year, these childrenbecome accustomed to playing inchurch before the congregation.They also have the opportunity tolead the congregation in songduring these evenings.

This has been very helpful inencouraging our children to bring their talents out of theirliving rooms and into the worship services. Perhaps othercongregations want to pursue a similar arrangement so thatchurch organists do not go the way of the tyrannosaurus rex!

Dirk PoppeHouston, B.C.

Dear editor,In the past year you’ve printed various articles and letters

to the editor in which pros and cons were expressed of theinvolvement of Christians in politics. Please allow me to askthose in favour of supporting the Conservative Party thefollowing: How effective do you think any Christian can be inthe Conservative Party, either as candidate or (board)member, if that Party allows Gary Mitchell (a homosexualactivist who describes himself as “an openly gay-man”) to runas their candidate in their Vancouver-Centre riding?

Magdalene VanderlindeAbbotsford, B.C.

Letters to the Editor

598 • NOVEMBER 19, 2004

Welcome to Haiti! The small airportin the capital, Port-au-Prince, was full ofsigns announcing Haiti’s 200thanniversary. I’d arrived just in time for thefestivities, but in the following weeks theywere quickly forgotten as politicalturmoil resumed, resulting in PresidentAristide having to leave the country. Godgraciously protected me so that I wasnever in any danger.The location andtime of manifestations (violent, anti-government demonstrations) weregenerally announced on the newsbeforehand, so one simply made it apoint not to be in that area at that time.The only evidence I ever witnessed werethe smouldering tires, after amanifestation was over.

While the whole world wasmomentarily absorbed in Haiti’s politicaldevelopments, God’s army worked on –quietly, faithfully.Although this countrywas officially dedicated to Satan upon itsconception years ago, he has not beenable to stop God from accomplishing hiswork of setting his people free fromslavery to sin. Baptist missions have had atremendous impact on this impoverishedcountry, but unfortunately there is nostrong Reformed presence.

Coram DeoI was picked up by Karen Bultje,

founder and director of Coram Deo.Thisministry offers education to many Haitianchildren who would otherwise never getto go to school.We slowly worked ourway through the maze of repair-deprivedstreets, as I took in so many new sights:women carrying 10 kg loads on theirheads, and tap-taps (brightly decorated

pick-up trucks used for publictransportation). I was greeted at thehouse by several enthusiastic kids, allasking me questions in Creole.

Karen taught me so much during thefollowing weeks. For instance, themeaning of dedication: unless she couldtake them all with her, she wasn’t goingto leave the country, no matter whatthe political situation, because she couldnot leave her “family” of fifteen livingwith her at Coram Deo.They includeenergetic 5-year olds, tough teenageguys, an elderly woman. . . and “MamaLuc.” (Every organization needs a“Mama Luc!” She keeps everythingrunning smoothly.)

At Coram Deo I also met Beth, an 18-year old girl from Florida, with apassion to work for God in Haiti. She

already has a basic command of thelanguage, and puts her heart intowhatever work she can find here. Shetaught me most of the Creole I nowknow, and I will be eternally grateful!

Despite a lengthy “Christmas break”(partly due to the political problems), thenew semester finally started. Each schoolday began with students forming perfectlines in front of their flag, singing thenational anthem, a hymn, and reciting theLord’s Prayer.Then they’d all go to theirrespective classes.These outdoorclassrooms consisted of a table andbenches, a double-sided woodenchalkboard (which did double-duty as thedivider between classrooms).Teachershad to compete with the noise of otherclasses in progress, barking dogs, andeven the welders on the street!

Finding Hope in Haiti

Francine VanWoudenberg

Mdme. Node, the kindergarten teacher, is a solid Christian and loved by the children.

NOVEMBER 19, 2004 • 599

Some of the teachers, includingMackenson, the principal, live at CoramDeo. Mackenson does not have an easyjob; this is a big responsibility forsomeone his age (early twenties). He hasstudied computer skills, but desires tostudy theology in the future. Karen offerssome the opportunity to finish highschool or pursue post-secondaryeducation in exchange for their services,rather than a salary. So they teach in themorning and go to school in theafternoon.

One teacher, Miss Node, has been areal blessing to the school. She is gentle,has a radiant smile, and is very intelligent.Her dream is to be a pharmacist, and shewas well on her way – but she has aphysical handicap. Unfortunately, it isvery, very difficult for anyone with adisability to get a good education, muchless a good job there, because ofdiscrimination. So for her this job is atrue blessing!

I taught an English class everyafternoon open to staff and studentsalike. (Even the cook joined in!) Oneunforgettable afternoon, after the formalclass was over, I was talking with ateenage girl named Yslande. Shementioned that her family didn’t have aCreole Bible. I’d been given just such aBible by a volunteer who had left, butknew I’d never be fluent enough to makeuse of it myself. She was overjoyed whenI passed it on to her! Before I left, shegave me a painting she’d made herself,along with a letter which read:

I am very happy, because Godtouched your heart about the bible.

I thank God for that. . . I want tooffer you three verses: Colossians 4:2;

Hebrews 13:1; 1 Corinthians 13:2. . .May God bless you.Yslande.

What a humbling experience to be evenjust one person in the line of others usedby God to provide his Word specificallyto this girl and her family!

There are people who come in toteach various skills outside of schoolhours. One offers music theory.Another teaches karate. Some of theolder guys have become very good at

karate! Perhaps they will even achieve alevel at which they could get a jobteaching others in the future.We did gothrough a rather tense time in theschool, however, with a new volunteer.Although we initially trusted that hisintentions were to help, he became veryoverbearing as he tried to control theschool and even functions of the house,among other issues. Consequently, hehad to be dismissed. But during thetime he was here, he initiated art andphysical education classes, which were abig hit.

Free time at Coram Deo was filledwith all kinds of fun activities: colouringpictures and eating candies with youngerones; basketball games, serious and not-so-serious conversations, playing guitaror keyboard, card games (introduced tous by Sara, whom I’ll introduce to you ina moment), and they trying to teach usCreole. I sometimes had to play nurse,like when Cadeau took a spill off his bikeand needed extensive first-aid.Sometimes I was the tutor, when Gethroneeded help with Spanish homework.One big achievement was organizing thewhole “depot,” (storage room).That is afull-time job in itself!

More than education. . .A service that Karen has been very

effective in is finding medical aid forindividuals in need. Sometimes, it’s assimple as acquiring a prescription. Othertimes, however, she ends up having toseek foreign aid, and has become veryefficient at finding doctors in Haiti,Canada, or the USA who are willing todonate their skills to perform surgeriesfree. I saw this first-hand in the case withlittle Gerald, who needed heart surgery.Karen arranged for his and his mother’spassport, visa, and airline ticket to go toNew York, where the surgery wassuccessfully done.Although it was a harddecision to make, the mother left herbaby girl, Judelca, in our care that month,so she could better care for her son.When they returned, Gerald pulled measide and lifted his shirt, proudlydisplaying his scar!

Sometimes the decision to help is notso easy, especially in the case of children.It’s necessary for parents to commit todo their part in caring for their child, butsometimes they do not want to acceptthat responsibility. Karen had to turnaway a mother with a hydrocephalus

Samuel, 16, recently returned from the US where he underwent surgery. Scoliosis was causinghis spine to put too much pressure on his lungs. He receives tuition assistance from

Coram Deo, so he can continue his post-secondary education.

600 • NOVEMBER 19, 2004

baby, simply because when she’d foundcare in a hospital in the past the momtook her home, without waiting until thehospital discharged the baby, and hercondition worsened.As Karen wasexplaining all this to the mother, Beth(another volunteer) had taken littleYolanda and quickly bathed her (sheclearly needed it), tears rolling down hercheeks. It sure is hard to say “no,” but aministry cannot encourage parentalneglect. . . and there are still so manyother children (with caring parents)waiting to be helped!

Coram Deo has also facilitated inplacing deaf children in a special school. Iwas able to visit the facility, and I wasvery impressed! I spent an interestingmorning with some of the deaf students.Junior loved my photos from Canada andtaught me sign language for the peopleand things in my pictures.When I saw 13-year old Menushka sitting alone in adoorway, I sat down beside her. Suddenlyshe put her head on my shoulder as atear escaped from her eye. She put herhead on my lap and the tears keptflowing. I wished with all my being that Icould ask her what was wrong, andactually understand. I wished I couldmake her pain go away.All I could do wasjust be there, hold her, and pray for her.

Outside these walls. . .One day I was given a tour of a

fairly poor slum area. Because of theperson I was with, it was relatively safe(nearly all the families we spoke toknew and trusted my guide). I was alsoaware that this was nothing, comparedto certain cities where even policemight not dare enter.We walkedthrough a maze of concrete. Houseswere built against or on top of eachother.There was garbage scatteredeverywhere we went, piled up especiallynear the most visible water source.Half-naked children played listlessly inthe doorways of their homes. Motherswere busy cooking over open fires. Ialso saw a Dominican family, refugeesmost likely. Ironically there are alsomany Haitians who, in desperation,cross into the Dominican Republic,hoping for a better future there.

But in the midst of such depressingcircumstances one also find the Haitianchurches.Their services wereunforgettable.Although I couldn’tunderstand the sermons, I could certainlyappreciate the a cappella singing. It wasabsolutely beautiful! Karen sometimeswent to Quiequeya Chapel, and Englishchurch, so there at least I couldunderstand the preaching and beencouraged in my spiritual walk.

SaraI promised to tell you about Sara

Versteeg. She is a dear friend who’dplanned to travel with me through Haiti(and Mexico) for about four months. Shearrived a few weeks after I did.

Just as we were starting to feel athome in Haiti, Sara suddenly got sick.Now I’d been sick a day here and there,but this was different.We went throughsome scary days (and nights!) trying tocontrol her symptoms and seeing variousdoctors. No one knew for sure what shewas suffering from.We finally had toadmit it was too serious for her to stayin Haiti, much less travel on to Mexicowith me. So, she made the arduousjourney alone, back to Calgary. (It wasn’tuntil months later, however, that she wasproperly diagnosed as having denguefever.) It was a huge disappointment forboth of us, as I had to continue on toMexico alone.What an unexpectedchange of plans, and what a lesson inlearning to say,“Thy will be done…” Shewas very brave through the wholeordeal, and the people in Haiti will neverforget her!

What about you?There is so much more I could go

into detail about: a week-end trip toChildren of the Promise (a C.R.C. babyorphanage in northern Cap Haitien) andvisits to various other orphanages to tryto learn what I could about theiradoption processes, and operatingprocedures. I encourage you to find outwhether it is God’s will for you also tosome day see first-hand the situation ofour dear brothers and sisters in Haiti orelsewhere. But whether you continuesupporting these ministries financiallyfrom Canada or volunteer your time andskills, please remember that the mostimportant thing is to remember theorphans, widows, disabled, and unlovedpeople of the world in your prayers.Because our efforts alone don’t make anydifference, but God can change lives for eternity!

Karen takes down information from the mother of a baby with hydrocephalus, so she canarrange for a cat scan, and possible surgery to insert a shunt to drain the fluid.

Treatment for hydrocephalus is too expensive for most Haitians, and many children die after a great deal of suffering.

NOVEMBER 19, 2004 • 601

The first flurry of school magazinesthat crosses my desk, usually around theend of September, always make note ofimprovements made to the schools duringthe summer. Some schools obtained newcomputers, photocopiers, desks, shelves,blackboards, bulletin boards, or textbooks;other schools fixed a roof, redid theflooring, lights, ceilings, colour schemes,pavement, playground, intercom, or thephone system. School magazines alsowelcome new students, families, teachers,volunteers, or para-professionals, and theyalso remind people of ongoing expensesduring the summer as well as the ongoingneed for good communication.Theopportunity is used to announce new bus-routes, and explain the year’s schooltheme (or even a theme song), and newpolicies.They further provide an overviewof the year’s planned special events,highlighting those that are extra special.Asevidenced in many reports, schools offermany opportunities to share one’s giftsgratefully within the communion of saints– whether during the summer orthroughout the year.

Also, no matter where the schoolmagazine originates,August and

September issues always breathe thefreshness of a new start, of new energy,gratitude for a good summer, the blessingof being able to start another year ofteaching covenant children, and prayerfulexpectation of the Lord’s blessing onthese endeavours.As Credo ChristianHigh’s principal notes,“We’re excitedabout the new year that lies ahead.Wepray for a good year of teaching andlearning and an atmosphere of harmony.”

Meanwhile, teachers continue theirdevelopment personally andprofessionally. One avenue for suchdevelopment is the teachers’ conventionsthat are organized in east and west. SomeB.C. schools make mention of theChristian Teachers’ AssociationConvention, under the theme Telling thestory we love; Loving the story we tell.Clearly story telling would be central(but far from the only course) in thisconvention. In Ontario, the CanadianReformed Teachers’ Associationorganizes its annual convention towardsthe end of October.This year, the themeis In Christ Alone, with reference toExodus 15:2. It will be held in Hamilton.

Timothy Christian School in Hamiltonis looking for larger facilities as its studentbody continues to increase and thecurrent site does not allow for expansion.As the public board is building a numberof new schools, one of the buildings it nolonger needs may be a solution.

I hesitate to write about John CalvinSchool in Smithville, but it is seeing goodprogress on its addition of sixclassrooms, a gym, as well as office, staffroom, and washroom facilities. On theday its 40th anniversary was celebratedwith gratitude (October 1), the flag couldalso be planted for reaching the highestpoint on the building.The childrencelebrated the anniversary with a flag-raising, balloon release, special lunch, andold-time games for the afternoon.

The school year is well underway.Report cards may already have gonehome, and patterns of teaching andlearning have been well established. Itmay also be the time that issues begin toemerge that need careful consultationand consideration to find a solution. Dowe continue with the same enthusiasm,gratitude, and supportive prayer westarted with in September? Do we stillseek and find opportunities to use ourvarious gifts and talents to help parentsin their task to teach their children, aswe did in the summer? Schools, teachers,parents, and students benefit if the effortof education is carried by the wholechurch community.The whole churchcommunity benefits.

The Education Matters column is sponsoredby the Canadian Reformed Teachers’Association East. Anyone willing to respond orinteract to an article or anyone willing to writean article for us is kindly asked to sendmaterials to Clarion or to Otto Bouwman(bouwman@surepost.net)

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

ksikkema@juno.com

Education MattersKeith Sikkema

Pictures of JCS festivities and building progress care courtesy of Emily Breukelman.

602 • NOVEMBER 19, 2004

Press Release of ClassisAlberta in Neerlandia,October 19, 2004

OpeningOn behalf of the convening Church

of Neerlandia elder Harry Peters openedthe assembly by inviting us to sing Psalm101:1, reading Psalm 121 and leading inprayer. A warm welcome was extendedto the delegates of the Alberta churches,to the deputies of Regional Synod West,Rev. Rob Schouten and Rev. JamesVisscher, to Candidate ReubenBredenhof, to the URCNA fraternalobserver, Rev.Theo Hoekstra, and to theguests. Under memorabilia he mentionedthe recent death of Dr. Jelle Faber, forwhom we give thanks for a faithful andcheerful servant who trained many of theministers present, and who will bemissed in the churches. He also notedwith thankfulness that CandidateBredenhof had accepted the call to theSt.Albert Church, and Rev. JohnLouwerse to the Neerlandia Church. Hereminded Classis that the CoaldaleChurch remains vacant, and of the specialcircumstances of Rev. John van Popta andhis family.

Classis was declared constituted.Appointed as chairman, vice-chairman

and clerk were Rev. Bill Slomp, Rev.TheoLodder and Rev. Richard Eikelboom,respectively. Rev. Slomp thanked theNeerlandia Church for their fine job ofconvening and hosting the meeting.

The agenda was adopted.

Peremptory Examination ofCandidate Reuben Bredenhof

All the documents needed toproceed with the exam were provided bythe St.Albert Church and found to besufficient.

Br. Bredenhof presented his sermonproposal on John 12:27-33, after whichClassis went into closed session. Classis,with the concurring advice of thedeputies of Regional Synod West, havingjudged that this sermon was faithful toGod’s Word, and that this brother showsmuch promise to conduct a fruitfulministry among God’s people, decided toproceed with the exam.

Rev. R.Aasman led the examinationon Old Testament Exegesis (Psalm 100and Jeremiah 7), Rev. R. Eikelboom onNew Testament Exegesis (Colossians 1and 1 John 3), Rev.T. Lodder onKnowledge of the Contents of HolyScripture, Rev.W. Slomp on Doctrineand Creeds, Rev. E.Tiggelaar on ChurchHistory, Rev. R. Eikelboom on Ethics, Rev.E.Tiggelaar on Church Polity, and Rev.W.Slomp and Rev.T. Lodder onDiaconiology. During each examinationthe delegates and deputies were giventhe opportunity to ask questions of the candidate.

In closed session Classis decided, inconsultation with the deputies ofRegional Synod, with thanksgiving toGod, to sustain the examination ofCandidate Bredenhof. This brother wascongratulated by the chairman, andrequested to sign the Form forSubscription for Ministers of the Word inClassis Alberta which the chairman hadjust publicly read. He did so.Theassembly was invited to praise God withHymn 64:1, and the chairman led inthanksgiving prayer. Elder M. Hooimeyerof St.Albert Church addressed theassembly and invited the churches to theordination of their minister-elect on theLord’s Day of October 31, 2004.Opportunity was given to personallycongratulate Br. Bredenhof.

Fraternal GreetingsDuring the examination Rev.Theo

Hoekstra of Neerlandia had been giventhe opportunity to speak on behalf of thefederation of the United ReformedChurches of North America. Speakingwords of encouragement, he conveyedthat among the URCNA brothers thereis overall a growing desire to proceedwith unity, also locally. Rev. RichardAasman reciprocated with fitting words.

RCUS South-Central Classis haddelegated Rev. Hans Kalkman to attendthe meeting, but it was assumed that hecould not make it on account of theinclement weather conditions.

ReportsClassis accepted the Report of the

Committee for Needy Churches, and theReport on the Spring Meeting 2004 of

the Reformed Church in the UnitedStates, South-Central Classis from thefraternal delegate, Rev. Lodder.

Proposals and Instructions from thechurches

The Neerlandia Church requestedClassis to discuss protocol concerningClassis contracta, since nothing isspelled out about it in the ChurchOrder. Classis confirmed theimportance of due diligence by thechurches. In response to an instructionfrom the Taber Church, Classisreiterated that it is the responsibility ofthe convener of the church visitors toensure that each church receives achurch visitation annually.

Question Period as per Art 44Church Order

The chairman asked “whether theministry of the office-bearers is beingcontinued, whether the decisions of themajor assemblies are being honoured,and whether there is any matter in whichthe consistories need the judgment andhelp of classis for the proper governmentof their church.” Each church answeredaccordingly. Advice was offered to thechurches requesting it.

CorrespondenceA letter was received by a brother

informing Classis of an appeal he issending to Regional Synod West. A replywill be sent.

A letter was gratefully received fromRev.Ted Van Raalte reporting his visit tothe Presbytery of the Dakotas of theOrthodox Presbyterian.

The Coaldale Church requested andwas granted pulpit supply every threeweeks, beginning in January.

AppointmentsThe following elders were delegated

to Regional Synod West: Elders MarionBareman of Taber and Martin Hooimeyerof St.Albert (primi), Elders Gerald VanSeters of Coaldale and HenryOstermeier of Calgary (secundi), in thatorder. As ministers, Revs. Eikelboom andTiggelaar (primi), Revs. Lodder andSlomp (secundi), in that order.

Convening church for next Classiswill be St.Albert on December 7, 2004,

Press Release

NOVEMBER 19, 2004 • 603

With joy and thanksgiving, we praise our heavenly Father forentrusting into our care our first little miracle, a covenant child

HAILEY JHAILEY JAAYY-L-LYNN KELLYNN KELLYYdaughter of Edward and Maria Kelly

Born July 31, 200413th granchild for John and Mary Van Eerde

3rd granchild for Edward and Alice Kelly20 Marshagan Road, Dunnville, Ontario N1A 2W2

With great happiness and also much thankfulness to ourHeavenly Father who made everything well, we wish to announcethe birth of our sixth child, a healthy girl whom we have named

DOMINIQUE SDOMINIQUE SASHAASHABorn on August 31, 2004 to grateful parents and siblings

Henry and Dianne Moesker (nee VanderLeest)Alexander, Dylan, Tia, Ashley, and Aria

28 Alice Road, Cardup, W.A., Australia, 6122hdmoe@amitar.com.au

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!With thankfulness and praise to God, the Giver of life we

announce the birth of our son

REUBEN JREUBEN JAMESAMESBorn October 15, 2004

Don and Monica Bos (nee Nordeman)Anna, Joseph, Benjamin

2106 Regional Road 20, St. Anns, ON LOR 2AO

With joy and thankfulness to our Heavenly Father we announcethe birth of our second child, a son

ZION GERRITZION GERRITZion was born on September 22, 2004 and is a little brother for

MaxwellJeff and Melanie Jans

16 Church Street, Waterdown, ON L0R 2H0

The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.Psalm 127:3

With thankfulness to the Lord who made all things well, we Timand Leah Sieders joyfully announce the birth of our twin girls

MYMYA LA LYNN YNN andand

KENDRKENDRA GRA GRAACECEThey were born on September 27th, 2004

Sisters for big brother Caleb9th and 10th grandchild for Henry and Grace Sieders

177 West 18th Street, Hamilton, Ontario L9C 4G6

He remembers his covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations. Psalm 105:8

A new covenant child to treasure and train! The Lord, in Hisabounding goodness, has blessed us with the birth of a

healthy son

QUINTON BLQUINTON BLAKEAKEBorn October 4, 2004

A welcome addition forArnie and Marcy Schulenberg

Austin, Connor, Levi, Hudson23rd grandchild for the late Ann Buikema and

John and Henrietta Buikema22nd grandchild for Ernie and Jane Schulenberg

4984 May Street, PO Box 283, Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0

In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.Proverbs 16:9

With thankfulness to the Lord who brought us together, we

NADIA OSTERMEIER NADIA OSTERMEIER andand

MAMATT POORTT POORTTannounce our engagement on October 8, 2004.

2372 Binbrook Road East, RR 1, Binbrook, Ontario L0R 1C0

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

BBIRIRTHSTHS

CLARION ADVERTISEMENTS

EENGNGAAGEMENTSGEMENTS

with an alternate date of March 8, 2005,9:00 AM, if the Lord allows. Suggestedexecutive officers: Rev.Tiggelaar(chairman), Rev. Slomp (vice-chairman),Rev. Lodder (clerk).

Rev.Aasman was delegated torepresent Classis Alberta at theordination of Minister-Elect Bredenhof,since he will be conducting his ordination.

Rev. Eikelboom was appointed asdelegate to RCUS South-Central Classis.

Personal Question PeriodThe Barrhead Church thanked

Classis Alberta for the financial supportthat has been willingly given. TheCoaldale, Neerlandia and St.AlbertChurches thanked Classis for faithfulprovision of pulpit supply.

ClosingAfter the Acts and Press Release

were adopted, the chairman invited thevice-chairman to close. He invited theassembly to stand and sing God’s praiseswith Psalm 134, after which he led inclosing prayer.

Theo LodderFor Classis Alberta

604 • NOVEMBER 19, 2004

40th Wedding AnniversaryNovember 13, 1964 ~ November 13, 2004

MOURICE MOURICE andand JUDJUDY VY VANDERANDERVELDEVELDE (Devries)(Devries)

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust inHim, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy

Spirit. Romans 15:13Congratulations with love:

Jeff and Arlene VanderVeldeMike and Emma VanderVeldeSteve VanderVeldeLynda and Dave GrantDave and Alisa VanderVeldeTrevor VanderVeldeand 11 grandchildren.

OOBITUBITUARIESARIES

On Friday, October 15, 2004, the Lord took to Himself

TRTRYNTJE VYNTJE VANDERANDERVEEN – NEE LVEEN – NEE LANGERHUIZENANGERHUIZENBeloved wife for 66 years of Thies VanderVeen

of Burlington, ONLoving mother of

Dick and Tinie VanderVeen of Burlington, ONPeter and Sandy VanderVeen of Winterhaven, FlAlbert and Ida VanderVeen of Burlington, ONTed and Jan VanderVeen of St. Thomas, ONKay Posivy and John Weemhoff of Burlington, ON

Loved Oma of 15 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.Funeral was held in Burlington on Tuesday, October 19th,

2004 with Dr. G. Nederveen officiating. We are comforted by the words of Psalm 121.103-3260 New Street, Burlington, ON L7N 3L4

50th Wedding Anniversary1954 ~ November 26 ~ 2004

For the LORD is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations.

Psalm 100:5With much thankfulness to our Lord for His manyblessings, we joyfully announce the 50th WeddingAnniversary of our dear parents and grandparents

COR COR andand JJANE VANE VAN YKENAN YKEN (nee vanDasselaar)(nee vanDasselaar)We pray that the Lord will continue to guide and protect

them in the coming years.With love,Flamborough, ON: Pat and Art Linde

James and Kim LindeBrian Linde and Julie ReitknechtJohn Linde and Anthea TorenvlietMike Linde and Trish KnegtDave Linde

Burlington, ON: Jill and Luke JelsmaTrina, Cheryl, Joel, Tiffany

Waterloo, ON: Carol and Rob BarrettJoshua

Hamilton, ON: Lisa and Gerald HuininkJustin, Cassandra, Darren, Jennalese

Mailing address: 1275 Elgin Street, #601Burlington, ON L7S 1E2

50th Wedding Anniversary1954 ~ December 24 ~ 2004

It is with much joy and thankfulness to our heavenlyFather that, the Lord willing, we may celebrate the 50thWedding Anniversary of our parents and grandparents

RINUS RINUS andand TOOS JOOSSETOOS JOOSSESt. Mary’s, ON: Larry and Patsy Joosse

Matthew, SarahGrimsby, ON: Cathy and Roland VanAndel

Cheryl, Terry, Ryan, Kyle, BarryTony and Ruthann Joosse

Amanda, Melissa, AnthonyJohn and Jackie Joosse

Michael, Dennis, Bradley, MarcWe would like to celebrate this joyous occasion with an

Open House, D.V., on Friday, December 24, 2004 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Smithville Canadian Reformed Church

Annex, Station Street, Smithville.Best wishes only please.

Mailing address: 505 Ridge Road WestGrimsby, ON L3M 4E7

AANNIVERSARIESNNIVERSARIES

TTEACHINGEACHING PPOSITIONSOSITIONS

The Timothy Canadian Reformed School SocietyHamilton, Ontario

invites applications for aGRADE 8 TEACHER

The position is due to a maternity leave. Duties to commence mid March 2005.

Those with strengths in French are encouraged to apply.For more information, please contact the principal

Mr. Henk PlugSchool: 905-385-3953, Home: 905-574-6198

Email: timothy@on.aibn.comDeadline for applications is December 31, 2004

Applications to be addressed to:Timothy Christian Schoolc/o Education Committee

Box 20007, Upper James Postal OutletHamilton, ON L9C 7M5

NOVEMBER 19, 2004 • 605

A SPECIALOPPORTUNITY!Encouraged by gifts received, both fromindividuals and via deaconries, our

FOREIGN STUDENT BURSARY FUND has madecommitments to support two academically qualified, but needy, students. One is from Sudan and the otherfrom Russia.

You now have the opportunity and privilege of helpingfund their studies in Canada. The Lord willing, yourdonation will be instrumental in spreading the gospel intheir countries of origin.

Gifts of any size are welcome and those of $10.00 and overqualify for a receipt for income tax purposes.

Please remit to the College at the following address, withthe cheque clearly identified as intended for the

“FOREIGN STUDENT BURSARY FUND”The Theological College of

the Canadian Reformed Churches110 West 27th Street, Hamilton, ON L9C 5A1

Bus: (519) 843-5400Fax: (519) 843-2810Cell: (519) 993-1780

Royal LePage RCR162 St. Andrew Street EastFergus, Ontario N1M 1R9

“Serving Fergus, Elora, Guelph andsurrounding area

Eric VanGrootheestSales Representative

email: ericvg82@hotmail.com

The Congregation of the Canadian Reformed Church at Brampton

invites you to join them for a celebration with

Reverend and Mrs. B.J. Berendson the occasion of his

25th Anniversaryin the Ministry of the Word of God.

This celebration will be held, D.V.,

Saturday, January 8, 2005in the Heritage Hall of Holland Christian Homes.

A short program will commence at 2:00 p.m.and will be followed by a social hour

with the opportunity to offer personal congratulations.

Holland Christian Homes7900 Mclaughlin Road South, Brampton, Ontario

(Just south of Steeles Avenue)

Liberation Choirwith Willem Van Suijdam and Andre Knevel at the organ

are having our 1st annual Christmas hymns sing-alongconcert on December 22 at

CENTRAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCHin Hamilton,Ontario.

8 O’CLOCK ADMISSION FREE!Collection for World Wide Christian Schools.

The Beauty ofReformed Liturgyby G. VanDooren, M.Th.

The various aspects of the covenantalrelationship between the Lord and His people.

Soft cover, 80 pages . . . . . . . . .Can. $8.00

. . . . . . . . .U.S. $6.75

ISBN 0-88756-023-7

ORDER FROM YOUR FAVOURITE BOOKSTORE OR FROM

PREMIER PUBLISHINGOne Beghin Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2J 3X5

606 • NOVEMBER 19, 2004

John MeerveldAssociate Broker

garden city realty inc., REALTOR®

Old Fashioned Service – High Tech Advantage

Serving the Community Since 1979

(905) 333-3500Fax: 333-3616

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email: johnmeer@sympatico.cawww.johnmeerveld.com

MEMBER

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Advertise in

NOVEMBER 19, 2004 • 607

I BELONGA Course of Study on the HeidelbergCatechism

by Dr. James Visscher

The aim of this course of study on theHeidelberg Catechism is fourfold:

• First, the students will be provided witha foundational knowledge of the HeidelbergCatechism on which they will be able to build all their life.

• Second, the students will familiarize themselves with the background,structure, character, and contents of the Heidelberg Catechism.

• Third, the students will be urged to make the catechetical truth,which is biblical truth, their own.

• Fourth, the students must allow these truths to mould theirperspectives, to shape their conduct, to strengthen theircommitment, and to direct their endeavours in all areas of life.

Teacher’s Manual – 168 pages ISBN 0-88756-040-7

Student Workbook, Volume I – 224 pages ISBN 0-88756-038-5Student Workbook, Volume II – 240 pages ISBN 0-88756-039-3

Special discount for churches and schools.

Laminated cover, each book Can. $13.75 . . . . U.S. $11.75

ORDER FROM YOUR FAVOURITE BOOKSTORE OR FROM

PREMIER PUBLISHINGOne Beghin Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2J 3X5

Treasures New and Old

Exploring the Riches ofScripture

by Jack De Jong

Dr. De Jong’s passion was to search the Scriptures and to bringits treasures new and old to the attention of God’s people. With hisinsights into God’s Word he was able to encourage, instruct, andcomfort many when his meditations were first published in Clarion.His work retains its value and can be used for personal Bible study anddevotions as well as for group study into God’s Word.

Soft cover, 292 pages Can. $13.00. . . . . . U.S. $11.00

ISBN 0-88756-085-7

ORDER FROM YOUR FAVOURITE BOOKSTORE OR FROM

PREMIER PUBLISHING

PATRIMONY PROFILEby W.W.J. VanOene

Patrimony Profile retraces the inheritance(“patrimony”) which the Canadian ReformedChurches received from the fathersthroughout the history of the ReformedChurches in the Netherlands from 1795 on,via Secession (1834), Doleantie (1886),Union (1892), and Liberation (1944).

It outlines (“profile”) why, in order not to forfeit thispatrimony, the Canadian Reformed Churches had to be institutedwhen, at the first so-called Reformed Ecumenical Synod in 1946, theChristian Reformed Church expressed its approval of what was done inthe Netherlands by those who clearly had abandoned and denied thatvery patrimony.

Hard cover, 453 pages Can. $29.00 . . . . . . . U.S. $25.00

ISBN 0-88756-073-3

ORDER FROM YOUR FAVOURITE BOOKSTORE OR FROM

PREMIER PUBLISHINGOne Beghin Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2J 3X5

Our Reformed Heritage Retraced 1795 - 1946

OurReformedHeritage

Retraced1795

-1946

PATRIMONY PROFILE

W.W.J. Van Oene

W.W.J. Van Oene

PATRIMONY PROFILE

ISBN 0-88756-073-3

atrimony Profile retraces the

inheritance (“patrimony”) which the

Canadian Reformed Churches received

from the fathers throughout the history of

the Reformed Churches in the

Netherlands from 1795 on, via Secession

(1834), Doleantie (1886), Union (1892),

and Liberation (1944).It outlines (“profile”) why, in order not to

forfeit this patrimony, the Canadian

Reformed Churches had to be instituted

when, at the first so-called Reformed

Ecumenical Synod in 1946, the Christian

Reformed Church expressed its approval

of what was done in the Netherlands by

those who clearly had abandoned and

denied that very patrimony.The author, Rev. W. W. J. VanOene, lives in

retirement in Abbotsford, British

Columbia. Starting his ministry in the

Netherlands, he moved to Canada in

1952. Here he served the churches in

New Westminster, B.C. and Fergus,

Ontario until his retirement in 1985.During his active ministry, Rev.

VanOene obtained his master’s

degree from Knox College in Toronto

and lectured in Church History and

Church Polity at the Theological

Seminary of the Canadian Reformed

Churches in Hamilton.For many years he served as editor of

Clarion and still contributes to the

magazine on occasion. He also authored

several books - Inheritance Preserved and

With Common Consent - and edited two

books of daily Scripture meditations:

Lasting Food and Mercies New Every Morning.

P

NEW!PostmodernismA CHRISTIAN APPRAISAL

by F.G. Oosterhoff

This book consists of five lectures,each of which deals with different aspectsof postmodernism. Beginning with thereasons why the movement arose, thebook describes postmodern attitudes withrespect to social justice, the environment, religion, andeducation. It also shows the use postmodern thinkers make oflanguage and literature, and it deals at some length with the centralelement in postmodernism, which is the changing attitude towardknowledge and truth.The author is a graduate of University College, London University,England, where she received the Ph.D. in European history. Nowretired, she has taught courses in Ancient and European history,Church history, and the history of ideas for several years at thesecondary and college levels.

Soft cover, 126 pages Can. $8.00 . . . U.S. $6.75

ISBN 0-88756-074-1

ORDER FROM YOUR FAVOURITE BOOKSTORE OR FROM

PREMIER PUBLISHINGOne Beghin Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2J 3X5

PR

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Postm

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PostmodernismA CHRISTIAN APPRAISALThis book consists of five lectures, each of which deals with different

aspects of postmodernism. Beginning with the reasons why the

movement arose, the book describes postmodern attitudes with

respect to social justice, the environment, religion, and education. It also

shows the use postmodern thinkers make of language and literature,

and it deals at some length with the central element in postmodernism,

which is the changing attitude toward knowledge and truth.

Throughout, an attempt is made to analyse and evaluate postmodern

ideas from a Christian perspective, and so to determine which of the

ideas that are flooding the postmodern marketplace Christians have to

oppose, and which ones they can and should make use of.

The latter category is not unimportant. As the Introduction states,

“Although much of postmodernism is to be rejected, the movement

has positive elements as well. Several of its criticisms of modernist

habits and attitudes deserve to be taken to heart. More importantly,

there are postmodern thinkers who do not limit themselves to

criticism of modernist approaches, but propose viable alternatives.

Especially promising is the development of new theories of knowledge

– theories that have important bearing on our concept of truth,

including religious truth. Christians therefore should make sure that

they are aware not only of the negative aspects of postmodernism but

also of the positive ones. Indeed, I believe that they will ignore these

aspects only at their peril.”The author is a graduate of University College, London University,

England, where she received the Ph. D. in European history. Now

retired, she has taught courses in Ancient and European history, Church

history, and the history of ideas for several years at the secondary andcollege levels.

ISBN 0-88756-074-1

NOVEMBER 19, 2004 • 608 PM 4

0063

293

R 9

907

American Reformed FellowshipPalmetto, FloridaSunday Services:

8:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Location:Palm View First Baptist ChurchCorner US 41 and 49th Street East

Guest Minister:Rev. R. Stienstra

Information:(941) 723-6898

107 Griffin St. S.Smithville, ON L0R 2A0

Cell 905-517-1451Res. 905-386-7494Fax 905-957-1204

“Serving the Smithville, Attercliffe and surrounding areas.

Call today for area information”(905) 957-5000

24 hr. pager

COUNTRY TOWN REALTY INC.

Mark vander VeldeSales Representative

Escarpment RealtyIndependently Owned and Operated

370 Wilson Street EastAncaster, Ontario L9G 4S4

Bus: (905) 304-3303Fax: (905) 574-1450Res: (905) 648-7705

serving Ancaster, DundasHamilton and

surrounding areas.

John van AndelSales Representative

MEMBER

100% CLUB

Don’t forget Denver . . .where a small Reformed congregation is trying tomaintain its own Reformed school with help frombelievers around the world.

Thank you for your support!

Heritage Christian SchoolViola Van Otterloo5611 E. Amherst Avenue, Denver, CO 80222-7014303-759-0984